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Wednesday, January 27th, 2016
This Hooker Furniture Living Room Geometric Chest will look great in any living area.
If you have an artistic flair that needs to be satiated, then you might feel that your home is in need of a shot of color. The latest geometric accent pieces and wallpapers can give your home that needed lift. Imagine still feeling energized even during the dreary winter months as nothing can compare to bright and bold patterns when it comes to invigorating the senses.
A Daring Move
Geometric patterns are the hottest topic in interior design these days. Chevrons and stripes have been dominating the headlines in many interior design magazines for a long time. This trend is here to stay but if this is your first time to embrace this bold style, then it is advisable that you take it easy.
Do not run and invest in the boldest carpets and wallpapers all at once. Fine patterns that are unique which will surely pass design fads. The usual stripes and chevron patterns can give a feeling of modernism and youthful vibrancy. While this is so, you need to consider the overall style of your home so that the geometric patterns you are going to bring in will fit.
It is not difficult to create subtle yet sophisticated looks just by looking for a muted neutral shade then slowly layering with a bold mix of colors and hip patterns. Just make sure that you use bold patterns sparingly or you would be left with a room that confuses the beholder.
Accessories Uttermost Geometric Shapes, S3 19935 are black ceramic shapes complete with crystal feet and bronze undertones.
Consider Your Mood
It is also crucial that you think about the mood that you would want to project in your home. Soothing and relaxing places are your bedrooms and the living room. You can still use graphic prints in these rooms but limit your color palette to the soft and calming hues. You can also extend this same cozy effect to your master bathroom and all other bathrooms in your home.
As for the kitchen, dining area, the hallway, and rooms where foot traffic is almost constant, go ahead and splurge on those vibrant wallpapers. These are now available in many exciting patterns and colors. They are sure to energize the entrance hall and would leave a lasting impression with any visitor.
Never be limited by the thought that geometric patterns are for contemporary homes only. There are many options for just about any theme that you can think of. For the more traditional styles, then add glamour through subtle geometry. As for modern themes, the sky’s the limit pretty much.
Draw some inspiration from different eras, for instance, if you feel inspired to use materials from the Art Deco period, then find linear patterns, subtle curves, and monochrome or metallic colors. If you want contemporary styles, then find wallpapers in a ‘60s vibe. These could have a dizzying effect at first but you will soon appreciate the unique vibe that they bring in to your space.
Accessories Uttermost Geometric Impressions Modern Art 35309 is a hand painted canvas with geometric pattern rendering a three-dimensional effect.
You can also opt to use two-tone geometric patterns or have those harlequin-like patterns of diamonds and a spectrum of colors. Should these remain uninspiring to you, then choose a mixture of eighties design, palm leaf and bold shapes.
It is not advisable to decorate an entire room with geometric patterns. Less is more with this kind of style. Also, it is not just for the brave and daring homeowners who would set up a feature wall; it is also a style that can fit a person with delicate personality.
Wallpapers are not the only stuff that you can bring in. See the metallic geometric shapes below and you would know that geometric design can also be a decorative element.
Featuring geometric artwork is also a welcome move as are the use of rugs, carpets and furniture that show interesting patterns and textures.
Tags: bold, bold design, bold statement, Chevron, contemporary, contemporary interiors, contemporary style, contemporary theme, design geometry, geometric design, geometric interior design, geometric patterns, geometry in design, guidelines, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, modern, modern style, modern theme, modernism, patterns, stripes, stripes in interior design, tips
Posted in Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Geometry in Interior Design: Fun, Hip and Stylish
Wednesday, January 27th, 2016
Living Room Uttermost Citographie Gray Linen Armchair 23168. This chair is made of hardwood and made perfect by craftsman detail right on the gray linen tailoring. See how the brass nails streamline the fabric trim giving the needed contrast to the solid oak bare frame.
Craftsman dwellings were inspired by architect brothers Henry Mather Greene and Charles Sumner Greene. These ingenious minds worked together during the 20th century in Pasadena, California. The Greenes were quite inspired by the English arts and crafts movement and Oriental architecture. In their own promoting handmade stuff rather than those created inside factories and were machine-made.
If you want to have a first-hand look at the beauty of craftsman design and architecture, you could visit Southern California where a few bungalows from 1905 till the 1920s still stand. You will surely love this style if you like things that may be old but have got a timeless appeal.
Characteristics to look for include gabled roofs, front porch, tapered columns, partly paned doors, multi-pane windows, and a lot of earthy colors.
Craftsman houses are typically painted in any nature-inspired color. You will see a lot of browns and greens. The low-profile homes often blend with their natural surroundings. The muted palette comprising of just one or two contrasting colors are used to highlight the breathtaking architectural features.
Regardless of the style that you choose for your home, keep in mind that painting an architectural feature with a contrasting color is an effective way to highlight such feature.
Another characteristic that is unique to a craftsman home is the stone detailing. See the mixture of different materials with the siding typically made of wooden clapboard. There are some that feature shingled siding as this was a pretty common style, too, back in the day. The foundations and porch piers are generally made of stone with some concrete block, bricks or stucco used at times.
Craftsman style also comes with roof eaves, exposed beams and rafter tails. All these reflect the influence made by the Arts and Crafts movement, thus, visible handiwork was featured and were considered in style.
Living Room Uttermost Ardusin Hobby Cupboard 25589 is made from select hardwoods. It is hand-finished in worn black. The mahogany dovetail bins are solid wood and are great for your any storage needs.
Democratic Mixing
Get a craftsman style book and mix materials that you can get your hands on. Think of cladding a little addition of brick or stone even when your home already has existing clapboard siding. The addition of exposed rafter tails or beams should not mean that you are supposed to reconstruct your home or even replace your roof. Such details are commonly decorative in nature and can be easily added below a home that already has deep roof eaves.
There is something inviting and warm about a craftsman home. It celebrates the fusion of building materials, lovely structures, and most especially, the 20th century architectural features.
So, how to begin?
Start with a view of some of the craftsman homes still in existence. Take note of the window detailing, those exposed rafters, the facade, stained glasses as decorative accents, and the overall warm glow of the place.
Consider also the kind of lighting used which mirror the exteriors. Find sconce and pendant lighting that will cast a warm, golden glow throughout a room. While this is the general rule when it comes to craftsman homes (warm lighting plus earthy colors), this does not mean that you can’t put your own personality into it. You can opt for the bright home approach where you balance the bright hues with the wooden accents which are the staple materials of a craftsman home.
Other colors that you can add to your palette are white and blue. Gray can also give your craftsman home a contemporary appeal. Include white wooden accent pieces, modern pendant lighting fixtures, and some contemporary art. The result is a comfortable and trimmed yet modern and posh at the same time.
Isn’t it fun to make historical homes appear modern inside? This can be your take on retro meets the contemporary look.Craftsman design is sure to captivate both young and old spectators.
Tags: 20th century, 20th century chairs, arts and crafts, contrast, contrast in design, contrast in interior design, craftsman, exposed finish, hardwood, hardwood furniture, hardwood pieces, interior design contrasts, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, mixing and matching furniture, pendant, pendant lighting, retro, Retro design, Retro style, tips, wall sconce, wooden elements
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Tuesday, January 26th, 2016
ITALIAN RENAISSANCE. Hooker Furniture Home Office European Renaissance II 39.5 Lateral File 374-10-466.
Renaissance style came into existence because of the emergence of architecture and art in ancient Rome. Though people think of the greatness of Rome when it comes to the beauty of this style, it goes without saying that it was truly born in Italy during the 14th century.
English designers embraced the motifs that they read in Renaissance books. Artisans who were in London were also influenced by this style.
Grotesque, Moresque, Myths, etc.
Grotesque is a kind of decor which has its foundations in Ancient Rome’s wall paintings. In the 15th century, many of these works of art were discovered; they featured scrolling plants, mystical creatures, figures, vases and masks.
Strapwork, on the other hand, is like the leather strips. These are daring shapes that come in three dimensions. English designs, especially during the 16th century, are laden with this style. This style is especially useful in framing motifs and architectural forms.
Moresque, on the other hand, is called such because of its link to the North African and Spanish Moors. If you see those interwoven leaves, stems or tendril patterns, then you have a pretty good idea of what moresque is.
Romans and Greeks are known for their busts. The Renaissance style is also quite popular with what’s known as the roundrel. This is a decorative motif which originated from the Roman coins.
This Universal Furniture Dining Room Double Pedestal Table 409658-C spells royalty.
But what are Greeks and Romans without their myths? The Renaissance culture in England spurred a revitalized interest in classical mythology. Paintings and prints featured these mythical characters as the motifs.
The beauty of the Renaissance style does not end with the Romans. When Henry VIII became king, he inspired the rest of Europe as he became a patron of the arts. People marvelled at his court and the many luxurious objects in his kingdom. It was because of his love for the arts why he also commissioned foreign artists to design more than 50 of his royal palaces. The beauty and splendour of his court proved just how powerful and intimidating looks can be.
One of Henry’s favorite palaces is the Hampton Court Palace located in Surrey. He did not spare any expense in developing this traditional style palace. The ornaments that were used here are indicative o the strong influence of the Renaissance. This building’s Great Hall still stands today.
Going back to its home, Renaissance style was further developed with the help of Italian architect Sebastiano Serlio. Serlio published a series of books discussing architecture and the Renaissance. Buildings of antiquity were recorded in those books, thus, promoting classical style for both the interior and exterior features.
Fireplaces and ceilings became canvasses of sorts to many patterns, textures and works of art.
Hooker Furniture Home Office European Renaissance II Double Bookcase with ladder & rail 374 10 225. Learning was also a huge part of the Renaissance so to depict this on your style, take home this bookcase and start displaying your most treasured books.
Styles that are related to the Renaissance is the Neo classical style. It was during the 16th century that books containing decorative motifs offered inspiration to many British designers and artists. The Classical as well as Renaissance Revival during the 19th century became quite popular as archaeological discoveries were being made in Greece and Italy.
Renaissance and Your Home
You do not need to have a degree in interior design just to use this classic style in your home. Do not feel intimidated. Just remember as you start putting the elements together that the chairs, tables, cabinets and drawers have to be ornate, luxurious yet still comfortable. Choose oak, Remember to overlay but not overdo. Say yes to a lot of brocades, candelabra, tapestries, Oriental rugs, embroidered items, and velvet.
There is still a huge difference between mess and a concoction of different arts, elaborate walls, decorative pieces and the most inspiring furniture so take it easy in designing a Renaissance-inspired home.
Tags: African, art, artwork, classic, classic design, classic interior design, classic interiors, classical design, classicism, displaying works of art, fireplace, Grotesque, history, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, Moresque, patterns, Renaissance, Renaissance design, Renaissance interior design, Renaissance Revival, Renaissance style, Spanish, textures, timeless, timeless design, timeless interior design, timeless interiors, tips
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Tuesday, January 26th, 2016
Artistica Dining Room Quadrille Arm Chair 481-010. Imagine this awesome piece brightening up your dining area.
When trying to achieve industrial chic, there is nothing more harmonizing than the beauty of an open-space home and metal – especially copper. Iron girders and exposed beams, chrome bathroom taps, even stainless steel appliances all add to the exquisiteness of an industrial setting. If these are the only things that you think can be great for an industrial themed home, then think again.
These days, metal is everywhere – from the wallpaper to the flooring, even in furniture pieces.
The Evolution of Metal in Interior Design
Chrome initially said farewell to the bathroom then was seen in modernist furniture and lamps. The year 2014 was all about copper and the paint color of the year 2015 was also this same metallic hue.
The use of metal inside homes is far from new. Nobles during the Medieval Period had wrought-iron homes. Fast forward to the 20th century and metals were still very much in use. Chrome was then the star of the show and was accentuated by various polished mirrors.
During the Flower Power Revolution, metalwork became very popular among designers. It was used in wall sconces, chandeliers, sculpture and lamps. The ‘80s showed the emergence of brass and gold inside smart interiors.
Now, gold taps are common inside bathrooms especially among the most luxurious homes. You do not want to go all out when it comes to the use of copper or any kind of metal, though. Of course, you would not want to come across as loud.
The Tommy Bahama Home Living Room Harcourt Round Side Table 552-952 is made of hammered copper complete with nailhead trim. Concealed in this beautiful piece is a storage unit that serves multiple practical functions.
Copper, Copper, Copper Everywhere
Burnished and subtlety are needful in order to create warmth while adding a bit of sheen. Wallpapers, carpets and tiles also add a richness of copper and other metallic hues. Look at some bookshelves and sculptural forms and you’d be amazed at how copper can become the dominant hue yet restrained nevertheless.
Stuff in your home can be covered or painted with copper shades. Metals are not just there for cladding buildings anymore. It can also compete with wood and other furniture raw materials. Don’t get the idea that copper and other metals are cheap to work with. If you want to embrace quality then be prepared to invest. Your investment, after all, is sure to be enjoyed by your posterity.
Copper has long been used in interior design because it is a venerable metal. Its texture is cool but it can bring warmth in so many fashionable ways.
Bathrooms and kitchens are classic rooms where this gorgeous metal is used. It is both a functional and a design element. Copper is also wonderfully microbe-free which is why it is used in abundance inside these two rooms. What’s wonderful is that you won’t even need to use harsh cleansers in order to remove bacteria from the sink surface. A few hours of staying on copper and the bacteria are bust.
Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Akron Copper Table Lamp 27697-1 is made with handforged metal complete with a washed copper finish. ‘Notice the dark bronze foot? It is sturdy and decorative at the same time.
Copper pots and pans are also priceless decorative pieces in any kitchen. They spell luxury and wealth. Do you have copper cooking utensils to boost? Then bring them out and have them serve as decorative pieces, too.
Hammered copper used in many furnishings have transformed what could have been a so-so piece into a stunning work of art.
Copper lighting fixtures also have a huge impact in illuminating spaces. These are design pieces by themselves – just think of chandeliers, pendants, and table lamps. These are stylish additions in any room. They can add dimension and boldness; they can also effectively define space.
Copper lighting may be used in a rustic, cozy, contemporary or Western setting. Choose from raw to shiny finish, brushed or oil rubbed. Would you want the natural look or do you prefer pieces with heavy patina? The choices are limitless when it comes to exquisite copper.
Tags: chandelier, copper, copper accent, copper accents, copper in interior design, guidelines, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, metal, metal design, metal theme, metallic interior design, metallics, metals in interior design, rich hues, subtle, tips, wall sconce
Posted in 2016 Trends, Color Schemes, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »
Monday, January 25th, 2016
mix
This sofa from the Fine Upholstery Collection of FFDM is oozing with eclecticism.
Imagine finding a streamlined L-shaped couch and a lovely shag carpet in the middle of your living room. These can provide the modern side to an eclectic home while any wooden piece will lend the eclectic vibe. The eclectic design is a spectrum of many different styles. It is the gathering of different elements coming from various sources then used together in perfect harmony. This style, however, is not an easy one to replicate more so to create. You need to learn to mix and match certain interior design and decorative elements coming from different themes.
Yeah, this is not as easy as it seems since taking different elements from your favorite styles and throwing them all together is not the way to go. So whether you will design a bungalow or a much wider space, make sure that you have an eye for balance and harmony. Now going back to that L-shaped couch and the wooden center table, such pairing will become acceptable if the background features neutral or any light-colored wall or floor-to-ceiling curtains.
Though you may like different elements separately, these may not look great when brought together. If you want to avoid creating design mess, then you have to be careful about your choices. Moderation is key to creating the contrasts that you need. Variety and contrasts, after all, are what comprise eclectic interior design.
What Strikes Your Fancy?
Think of eclectic as the union of the luxurious and simple; neutral and bright; even the East and the West. The leeway that you enjoy is what makes this whole design scheme tricky. Keep in mind that the borderline between chaos and acceptable contrast is very thin. The leeway that you enjoy is what makes this whole design scheme tricky.
Do you think you have the skill to mismatch something systematically? This is the very core of eclecticism. Find enough elements that will become the foundation. This common ground will be responsible for harmonizing everything else.
Any room, for instance, can showcase wooden furniture pieces that can give your home a rustic and earthy feel. Yet they could also turn out to be overpowering or monotonously boring if you do not use them carefully. Find decor pieces that will soften the overall look of your home (bright throw pillows or colorful area rugs for instance).
Don’t bother about matching chairs. Use a narrow palette and a dash of both shimmer and silhouette. Find artwork, accents, rugs, and lighting elements that play well with your background. Use light against the dark, flat and glossy, traditional and modern. Always look for prospects of creating analogous unions.
This inspiring dining set from the FFDM American Cherry Collection is a powerful anchor to the ornate carpet.
Another great rule of eclecticism is to edit as you go. It will be impossible to cram all your ideas in one room. As you go along, you will observe that finding the right balance becomes easier. Establish optical marriages of furniture and artwork, shapes and finishes, even focal point and accent pieces.
The fundamental pieces should serve as the anchor to your whole theme. Architectural elements can be repeated throughout, say, a gold-colored chair propped against a distressed white desk in your home office, all against pearly white painted walls, trim and door posts.
Before bringing any piece to a room, consider its relationship to the rest of the design elements. Will it overwhelm or become a dull addition? If this is so, then it is certain that your furniture piece should go someplace else.
Accessories Uttermost Iced Trees Abstract Art 31304 is a frameless masterpiece that spells eclectic throughout. This artwork will surely leap to life in any room.
Scale, composition and proportion are always important when it comes to interior design, however, they become crucial the moment they are used in a home with incongruent design elements. Pay attention to the mixture of artwork and accessories as there should be nothing unintentional in your space.
Lastly, eclectic design is also about texture layering. Create depth by bringing in on Oriental carpet onto a wooden flooring and trim. Upholstery pieces look great when paired with sleek desks. Different textures can create visual sensations that will surely excite the senses.
Tags: contrast, eclectic, eclectic design, eclectic interior design, eclectic interiors, eclectic Safari theme, eclecticism, guidelines, interior design contrasts, match, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, mixing and matching furniture, mixing designs, mixing interior designs, tips
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes, Interior Design Trends | Comments Off on Eclectic Design: Your Home, Your Style
Monday, January 25th, 2016
This FFDM Protege chair will be a lovely ‘mismatch’ to another neutral-colored seating piece.
If your heart jumps each time you see a condominium unit or a townhouse, then know that you have to prepare to live in a place that is cozy. Foregoing the idea of an open space plan is not an easy decision to make but should you sign up for this kind of home, then it’s time to look for the right design that is most suitable for it. ‘Ever considered the shabby chic style?
Okay, so you have saved every bit of hard-earned money and have sacrificed on shopping and travel – what now?
Old vs. New
Carefully plan what theme you will use before you move in to your new condominium or townhouse unit. One of the most utilized, these days, when it comes to limited space is the shabby chic concept.
Rachel Ashwell popularized this stylish interior design concept to focus on comfort, highlight the beauty of seemingly time-worn furniture and objects, and for the homeowner to appreciate practical living.
This concept can even guide you in mixing traditional and new pieces. Choose from our catalogue and find the right furniture, accessories and lighting fixtures.
If you are thinking of buying second-hand furniture, think again. It is much better to have new furniture given a distressed appeal than to take the risk of buying the damaged ones. Bargain shops sell at the lowest prices but you are never guaranteed of the quality of the stuff that you are buying. So, it is much better to invest in a few quality pieces than to have different sets of furniture only to end up spending more money on repairs.
Coming from the Ancestry Collection of FFDM, this light-colored drawer is sure to be a big hit inside any shabby chic setting.
Let’s Decorate
The shabby chic style is basically minimalist and is almost synonymous with white. You may paint the walls of your home with flat white, pearl, cream, or any shade of white. Apart from having white(ish) walls, take note that you also need to have a few white furniture and accent pieces. These will add a distinct as well as intimate feel to your home. White furnishings are also easy to clean using your regular household bleach.
Now, which room would you like to design first?
First, there’s the living room. Carry the modern facade from the outside to this part of your home. Your condominium or townhouse unit will surely have a rustic yet cozy appeal once you start bringing in the lovely furniture and accent pieces.
The living room must have a clean yet non-antiseptic feel. It should be minimalist but with a few accent pieces to boost such as a lovely chest, a coffee table, console table, or some shelves.
In the dining room, be sure to showcase a table that was aged to sit perfectly in this important space. Have a Victorian couch rest against the white wall. Wicker chairs would look lovely when placed with white curtains as backdrop.
Now to the kitchen: have the furniture and appliances in neutral colors. This is so they won’t clash with the condo or townhouse’s overall appeal.
If you are one of those who prefer to have a home office, then use a white desk as much as you can. Now couple the lovely white desk with a unique accent chair and some neutral shelves.
Should you still have space for one guest room, then make sure that this room is just as cozy as the rest of your home. Use the same shade on the walls and on the furniture that will be placed there. Since the bed is pretty much the focal point, then take time to choose the ones that you will invest in for the master bedroom as well as this room.
Lastly, with your shabby chic bathroom, ascertain that you do not miss out on an ornate mirror that will bring character to this room. Find one that has a wooden frame that matches the stylish theme that you have chosen.
Tags: classic, classic design, classic home, classic interiors, classic style, feminine, feminine design, feminine interior design, feminine interiors, feminine style, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, minimalist, minimalist design, old, old vs. new, rustic, rustic charm, rustic design, rustic elements, rustic home, rustic interior design, rustic interiors, rustic look, rustic style, rustic theme, shabby chic, shabby chic design, shabby chic interior design, shabby chic interiors, timeless, timeless design, timeless interior design, timeless interiors, tips, white, white color palette, white color scheme, white furnishings, wood, wood elements, wood furniture pieces, wooden elements, wooden furniture
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes, Interior Design Trends | No Comments »
Friday, January 22nd, 2016
Maitland-Smith Accessories Rock Crystal Bowl On Glass Base 2147-362 provides a classic look to any nook.
Many homes already enjoy using glass in most of their furnishings. The use of this unique material in home decor is both decorative and practical. It can come in many forms ranging from countertops, glazing, decorative walls, to fancy mirrors. Whether you want to use glass to let in the morning sun or just so you can make a cramped room look expansive, its interior design possibilities are actually limitless.
Sure there are glass tables and cabinets but have you ever wrapped your brain around having a glass home?
Glass is a recyclable and sustainable material. It is known to provide environmental benefits as well as mitigate changes in climate. Many designers have saved natural resources because of their utilization of this awesome material.
Glass is appreciated in many different applications. It is known to conserve energy which is obvious in homes with glass facades. Imagine not having to use artificial lighting till dusk.
Playing with Light
You would certainly love to catch a glimpse of your reflection every day on the mirror of this Viniterra cabinet from FFDM.
The presence of light is the best interior design trick there is. Light can make smaller rooms look large and large rooms even more unrestrained. Light can also make rooms look comfortable and natural.
The use of glass brings in natural light in your home, thus, you can enhance the garden views and even brighten up obscure rooms.
Windows with mulliions can easily take advantage of the picturesque views. Let glass create this same lovely view in your home while also reflecting light and highlighting lovely surfaces.
Studies show that natural light can improve sleep, even your overall quality of life; more and more evidence point to the benefits of light on your mood, alertness level, as well as your metabolism.
Glass is one of the most preferred materials for better aesthetics and characteristics. Picture this – glass can even preserve the natural taste of food. It can also lock the vitamins in which is no surprise why most food and medicine packages come in glass containers. So why not install glass in your kitchen where your daily meals are prepared? You can look forward to – not just having a wonderful view of nature outside – but also a higher health level.
If you are not ready to have an all glass home just yet, then just be creative in your use of this lovely material. After all, there are but a few limits when it comes to glass. Extreme cold and heat are two of the things that you need to carefully think through when using glass in your home. Thicker panes are needed for places with cold temperatures.
Glass in Smaller Quantities
Having glass furniture is the next best thing to having an all glass residence. Mirrors, glass chairs, tables and just about any furnishing can be made with glass. You can pair glass with leather, wood, especially metals.
Give your kitchen counter tops and office desks a touch of elegance by using glass. Use cleaner lines for a more industrial or urban look and ornate lines to bring out the beauty of glass in a traditional setting.
Artistica Living Room Per Se Nesting Table, Glass 407-360 spells unique in every aspect. The fusion of glass and wood in this ensemble is too perfect to ignore.
Do not limit yourself to the living room, kitchen or the dining room when designing with glass. Up the level of sophistication in your bathroom by having glass walls installed. Wet areas such as these do not need to look unexciting. In fact, since the bathroom is where you should feel relaxed, even rejuvenated, then you should take time to think of a concept that will make the room more tranquil.
Glass can also be used as a divider wall between the master bedroom and the master bathroom. Keeping the privacy is easy by using glass blocks.
Try installing glass in different areas of your home and start reaping the benefits.
Tags: designing with glass, glass, glass design, glass home, glass house, glass interior design, glass interiors, glass walls, light, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, mirror, mirrored interiors, natural, natural light, natural lighting, styling with glass, tips
Posted in Architectural Elements, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes, Interior Design Trends | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 20th, 2016
Fine Furniture Design Home Office Trade Winds Writing Desk 1220-925 at McCreerys Home Furnishings.
The office desk is the central point of every work space. It is crucial, therefore, that you take the time to choose the right one. Don’t start looking at it as a daunting task, rather, an exciting phase that you need to go through.
There are many kinds of workspaces ranging from wide open, tiny to the hugely efficient. The perfect layout only becomes so if you find the right desk. Yet how do you get to choose the best?
The first thing that you need to remember is that the office desk is actually all about you. This is going to be your home base and private domain. While other office furniture must take into consideration other requirements, the office desk is one that has to meet yours. Prioritize your work habits as well as your preferences as you formulate the questions in choosing your work desk.
The office desk is both a computer work station and a place for paperwork. Make sure that it is able to carry computer equipment in such a way that cable clutter is reduced to a bare minimum. Some compartments will serve as storage for your computer components as well as important documents.
Take for instance the Fine Furniture Design Home Office Trade Winds Writing Desk (1220-925). This comes from the fine collection of Palm Island with a unique, softer finish called BALI. This is the perfect desk to invest in if you want your home office to stand out. Its finish offers a sun bleached look. Materials like hand-woven rattan pieces or woven padded twill will complement the BALI finish. Its hardware comprises custom metal and natural wood.
If you are going to use a desk for administrative purposes, then be sure to find a huge one that can accommodate shuffling and paper cataloguing. Storing or shelving documents and records will always be an issue in any office space so it pays to considering having an ancillary cabinet.
Do you also need to conduct meetings while you are seated in your work station? Then consider setting up a U-shaped or L-shaped layout. This will give you both a restrictive space where you can do administrative tasks, and an open space where you can hold conferences with others.
The discreet armoire can tone down a workplace ambiance.
The Hooker Furniture Home Office Skyline Executive Desk is definitely for the big boss.
Desk Materials
Common materials used in crafting office desks are metal, plastics and, of course, wood.
Wooden materials come in different colors and grain patterns.
Desks made of solid wood are great for aesthetic purposes. These may be pricier at first but you get to use it for the rest of your life. When maintained well enough, hardwood desks could even become heirloom pieces.
Hooker Furniture Home Office Treviso Writing Desk 5374-10459 at McCreerys Home Furnishings.
Cleaning Wooden Desks
It is important to clean wood furniture if you want it to last. Solid wood furniture cannot be cleaned with just any ordinary furniture polish. A lot of the most popular furniture polishes have silicone and wax ingredients.
It’s best to avoid these polishes. Wax can leave residue that has a tendency to build up overtime. This can eventually lead to an uneven or cloudy appearance. Silicone, on the other hand, leaves behind white deposits that tend to destroy rather than improve furniture finishes.
Clean wooden desks 6 to 12 times every year. A mixture of mild soap and water should do. Dust your wooden office desk every week using a dry cloth. Dust can also be abrasive so when left on wooden surfaces, it can dull the appearance of the furniture.
Acquiring a beautiful piece such as the Treviso writing desk on the right requires a lot of attention – maintenance wise and social status wise. This office desk was aptly named from a province north of Venice right on the Adriatic Sea. Treviso offers authenticity, one that ages beautifully through the years. Notice that dark macchiato finish of this rustic office desk. It will take you through the Italian Renaissance because of its lovely Old World antique look.
Tags: desk, executive desk, guidelines, heirloom, home office desk, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, metal, natural wood, office desk, office furniture, rattan, storage, tips, wood, wood elements, wooden elements, wooden furniture, wooden furniture care, wooden materials, wooden office desk, work desk, writing desk
Posted in Furniture, Home Office Design, Interior Design Elements, Office Design | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 20th, 2016
What would be more perfect for the dining room in your old home than this table from the Antebellum Collection of FFDM?
Do you know the old saying that old homes have souls? If this is the case, then you really have to find time to redesign an old home (if you happen to live in one). Interior design, after all, is not all about the creation of a new residence. If you are one of the few that are blessed to own a house that has already earned its own character, then it’s high time to bring out its best features.
Hide All Imperfections
One of the best ways to conceal imperfections is to paint over them. So go ahead and paint the ceilings and walls. Be sure to highlight the walls, trim and ceiling.
What makes people fall in love with older homes is how they speak of a different era. Back then, there was a certain level of personality and polish that are required for finishing touches. Simple coats of paint can preserve and highlight beautiful architectural details.
Designers typically paint a single color on the trim, walls and ceiling. The trim has a slightly higher gloss so that it subtly calls for attention. Once this palette is already in place, find a bold shade such as dark gray to paint your doors. These will serve as architectural highlights in your home.
Paint the trim work in neutral contrasting shade if it is still in great shape. This is a great way to show it off while being consistent in every room throughout your place. Applying the same paint on the ceiling can help fuse the look together for a more stately and architectural appeal.
Hooker Furniture Bedroom True Vintage Arched Mirror comes in a light wood finish and an elegantly aged driftwood finish.
Still on your home’s vintage trim, make sure to use in-window shade rather than hanging drapes. This is so you can leave the trim exposed for everyone to enjoy. These shades also add a modern touch in a subtle way, one that would not steal the integrity of your original home.
If, however, you have awkward looking windows, then go ahead and use those drapes. A lot of older homes tend to have quirky windows. A wall of drapery should hide such windows.
Another beauty that you can use in designing old homes is the installation of stained glass. If you do not already have them, invest in this type of glass which will make simple white walls appear more stimulating.
Embrace Contemporary Furnishing
Universal Furniture Bedroom Santa Rosa Poster Bed Queen 313280B at McCreerys Home Furnishings
If you want your traditional home to have an edgy, modern-day feel, then make sure that you invest in contemporary furniture pieces. These are those simple pieces with clean lines. Find rich textures, soft colors and linear pieces. Going radical when it comes to modernity is not the way to go, though. Make sure that you are able to control both contemporary and traditional concepts in such a way that they won’t fight. Take for instance the lovely Universal Furniture Bedroom Santa Rosa Poster Bed (313280B) which brings together both contemporary and traditional concepts so beautifully. This queen size bed is crafted using birch veneers and hardwood. It comes in two-tone finish namely the dark vintage and the lighter heirloom tone. Its aged birch veneer is the right touch to any traditional setting. Add to this the antiqued metal, crown molding, as well as overhanging tops, and you’ve achieved sophistication.
This lovely bed also comes in California king size.
Still on mixing modern and traditional periods, another way to add a modern feel is to place appliances such as TV, a computer or a plush sofa inside the room. Modern accessories will also make a huge difference in old homes so don’t be afraid to add in a dash of modernity.
Tags: classic, classic design, classic home, classic interior design, classic interiors, classic style, classicism, contemporary, drapes, guidelines, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, modern, neutral paint, neutral paint colors, old architecture, old home, old homes, redesigning old homes, timeless, timeless design, timeless interior design, timeless interiors, tips
Posted in Architectural Elements, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »
Tuesday, January 19th, 2016
The clean lines of the American Leather Living Room Bookcase MEN-BKC-ES should fit right into your organic interiors.
Would you like to have the ability to bring nature right into your home? This is a quest that homeowners, over the centuries, have longed to achieve. Humans, after all, love organic interiors and the organic appeal of earth’s elements because he is one with them.
Organic modern dwellings are usually soothing and have a down-to-earth feel. The natural elements such as clean lines, rustic stuff, vegetation and lots of natural light – all add a certain level of warmth to any home with modern architecture.
Bringing organically inspired elements in your home can be achieved with these guidelines –
Choose Elements That Bring Peace
This does not mean doing the feng shui each time that you move your furniture about or buying only the feng shui approved pieces. Pick materials that showcase your personal flair. Some homeowners may like the look of natural rocks as wall art while others like the sophistication offered by dark mahogany furniture or flooring. Be sure to find natural elements that show your style while connecting you to your home.
Use Bricks as a Focal Point or Backdrop
Brick making is a process that involves natural elements such as water, clay, mud and fire. These eventually produce one of the sturdiest building materials.
The appeal of brick transcends time. Its rustic uniformity makes old homes and now modern dwellings a place to marvel at.
Stanley Furniture Dining Room Farmer’s Market Table 018-61-32 at McCreerys Home Furnishings.
Never Go Without Wood
Wood is the soul of organic design. The imperfections of wood such as grains and knots are the very things that make it stand out. Wooden furniture now comes in various species and finishes. You can use this material from your ceiling beams down to your dining table, chairs, even the flooring.
Look for furniture with country and rustic appeal if you want to achieve a traditional look in your home. For those who are looking to have a contemporary setting, look for wood furniture with non-complex, free from ornamentation lines.
The Farmer’s Market Table on the left comes with a simple scalloped pattern. This can serve as a heritage piece, one that evokes a country feel. Its French style finish, bun foot legs, and Dutch white cedar all contribute to a lovely feature for this wooden piece.
Bring in Nature in Every Room
Bringing in natural finishes in your dwelling place is no longer a new concept yet it has become a game changer of sorts to many homeowners. You can look into buying organic bedding for your bedroom. These are those sheets that come with rustic leaves or birds as designs.
A Zen fountain can make a home office feel more calming and soothing.
Design your home according to the concepts that make you feel more excited, charged, even calmed and find out how nature would play its role in your home.
When it comes to floral inspiration, make sure that you bring in the real thing. It can be frustrating to see fake greenery covered in dust inside any of your rooms. Allow nature to find its way to your interiors by bringing in potted plants, flowers, cacti, and succulents in their natural state.
Another room where you need to feel relaxed or rejuvenated is the bathroom. A water heater can make your body feel soothed. It can even transport your mind to a much needed level of serenity. This is something that you can look forward to after a long day of work.
Add wood walls in your bathroom to attain the look of a dry heat sauna. Fixtures must have minimal lines and your source of light is preferably from the sun’s rays flowing right into this room. At night, find a light source that still creates the ideal, one-of-a-kind experience in bathing.
Living in organic interiors is not just relaxing, it can also make you feel a sense of fulfillment as you help Mother Earth in the process.
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Posted in 2016 Trends, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes, Interior Design Trends | No Comments »
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