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Thursday, October 20th, 2016
Hooker Furniture Living Room Imperial Regal 3-Piece Stationary Sectional
Have you reached a point in your life when you now that you simply gotta add space in your home? Would like to have a bigger bathroom so that you can relax and enjoy a bubbly bath after a long day at work? Others would like to add a kitchen that’s cozy enough to hold a breakfast nook. Whatever your reasons for adding extra space, you need to stop and consider a few things first. Remember that home additions can become invasive to your current lifestyle.
Defining Micro-Addition
This is also referred to as the bump out. It is a versatile extension that can become a valuable part of your home. It may be a small expansion but this is usable living space that can be converted into any room that you desire.
There is no need to lay a different foundation when making a micro-addition. This costs less than the usual home addition which is why more and more homeowners are resorting to this.
Micro-additions can give your home dramatic results by adding a few feet to the current room. This is different from adding another room to your home because micro-addition covers less space yet, still, it improves your home in so many ways.
Micro-Addition Benefits
A huge benefit that you can get out of micro-addition is the cost. Traditional construction for another room means you need to have more updates like an HVAC. Your project becomes more expensive when you’d need new outlets because an electrician would have to take care of it for you.
Bump-outs often don’t use the current roof but are given their flat roof. This eliminates the cost for the roof extension. You still get to save, though, because you are just expanding the room, not creating another one. That additional living space will also add to your ROI should you decide to sell your property.
One other benefit is that micro-additions are not as invasive in your home. You could be asked to stay away for a while when you need to add an entirely new room. Of course, there’s that concern about debris and dust getting into all rooms of the house.
Micro-addition will also have but a minimal impact on the exterior of your home. It becomes easier to blend with the current design at a more limited amount of time.
Probable Additions
A small bathroom will benefit from micro-addition. You can add a tub or a new shower in that extra space.
As for the kitchen, it would be wise to add some more space when you want a breakfast nook right by the corner where the sun usually shines during the morning.
Hooker Furniture Bedroom Sanctuary King Tufted Bed-Pearl Essence
Living room micro-addition can be transitioned into a home office or a small entertainment area. As for the bedroom, this could serve as a his and hers closet or a walk-in closet for all your accessories.
Addition Costs
Once everything is considered, cost is a factor that you seriously need to think about. The average room addition cost is valued at $36,328. For micro-additions, this cost is sure to become lower. Think also about the cost of permits, plumbing and electrical works if needed.
Think if you would need a micro-addition or an additional room. Whether your needs are large or small, this could be the time for an addition. Rather than spend more by moving into a larger home, why not evaluate the cost for a small addition? Make sure that you research all of your options then plan.
Micro-addition could be the greatest solution that could save you thousands of dollars. It is an investment that you would surely appreciate.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, micro-addition, room addition, small addition, tips
Posted in Bedroom Design, Dining Room Design, Interior Design 101, Kitchen Design, Living Room Design, Office Design | No Comments »
Wednesday, October 19th, 2016
Maitland-Smith Kitchen Island 5130-649
Do you believe that countertops are the anchors or foundations of your kitchen design? This is why it is best to have one that is shiny, beautiful and clean all the time. When it comes to countertop cleanup, though, there is no one method that works for every type. This is why you need to find out which cleaning technique is suitable for your kitchen counter.
The cleaning technique that you would use to make the countertop shine depends mainly on what material it is made of. Here are some tips on what to do if your kitchen countertop is made of –
Solid Material
Solid surfaces are available in semigloss, gloss, and matte finishes. Such countertops ask for extra care. Depending on the material quality, this often costs more compared to other countertops.
For glossy, solid surfaces, you can begin cleaning by using soapy water and any ammonia-based cleaning solution. Veer away from cleaning solutions that can scratch the surface.
If you want to achieve extra shine, then be sure to clean gently using a sponge. Just do this once every month to maintain the new glossy look.
You need to increase cleaning frequency with semigloss surfaces. This time, use any abrasive cleanser and a sponge. Repeat the cleanup to achieve a higher gloss. If you’re still not satisfied with the glossy that you did using the cleanser, then it’s time to have the countertop refinished or replaced.
Drexel Heritage Dining Room Evolution Counter Table 640-601
Ceramic Tile
Kitchens and baths have the most popular designs for tile countertops. Keeping these clean won’t just make them look like they’re brand new but would also keep them hygienic. Microorganisms can get into the grout, a porous material.
Get rid of dirt and bacteria by wiping these countertops after each use. Use your everyday tile cleaner. Begin with the grout by using your everyday tile cleaner. Begin with the grout by using a grout cleaner.
Deep stains should be treated with the same cleaner but, this time, let it sit for 10 minutes. Find a scrub brush or toothbrush to brush the dirt away.
Deep cleaning should be done twice to three times every year.
Natural Stone
These are your granite, slate or soapstone countertop. These are not easily stained nor become breeding grounds for bacteria. Soapstone countertops do not require annual sealing unlike other natural stones. Use mineral oil by applying them on the surface. This can even help deepen the color over time.
For granite, limestone or marble, refrain from using dish soap. This tends to make these surfaces appear dull. Stay away, too, from homemade concoctions and other gentle cleaners because these won’t have any lasting effects on the surface. There are commercially available cleaners that can even restore the original shine of dull granite.
Wood
This is also known as the butcher-block style countertop. This is best used in kitchens where food preparation is heavily done. Wood is heat resistant but it is susceptible to dirt and liquids.
The best cleaning method for wood is to wash it right after using.
Making the wood appear shiny begins by using some fresh lemon. Just wipe down the countertop using a non-toxic cleaner and sponge. As soon as it’s dry, sand the surface using 120-grit sandpaper. You can then sand again with 180-grit sandpaper till the wood is finally smooth. Use food-grade mineral oil on the counters then rub using a cotton rag. Soak the wood for about 20 minutes before wiping it clean.
Achieving a shine even on old kitchen countertops can be a simple task if you know what cleaner suits which material. Use proper techniques and cleaning solutions for your counter material. When you do so, you care for it and you don’t expose it to more damage.
Tags: caring for countertops, countertop care, countertop choices, kitchen countertop, kitchen countertop materials, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, natural stone, tips
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Kitchen Design | No Comments »
Monday, October 17th, 2016
Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Rondure 1 Light Oil Rubbed Bronze Sconce 22497
Great design is not all about the kind of lighting that you choose. It is also about you considering the function for the space and then its lighting needs. For instance, kitchens and bathrooms need to be well-lit. Make sure that you use task lighting in the busiest rooms, after all, there is nothing worse than prepping dinner then you end up not seeing what you’re chopping. Incorrect lighting placement can put shadows on the busiest work spaces. This is why you need to have an efficient lighting plan.
Outdoor Lighting Types
Outdoor lighting is more complex to plan for because you are essentially extending the garden after sundown. Well-chosen lighting fixtures can also become wonderful security measures.
There are various lighting types to choose from but most fit into these two categories – accent and task lighting. The former draws attention to the areas that you want to showcase like sculpture and trees. This kind of lighting will also take the eyes away from eyesores such as the garden shed or clotheslines.
Task lighting, on the other hand, refers to practical lighting for your landscape. You could use this when you want to prepare food outdoors. This is also a kind of security and decorative lighting.
You now need to choose between halogen and LED (light emitting diode) lights for your outdoor paradise. Halogen lighting is the traditional landscape lights. These emit a yellow light, hence, they use up more energy than LED lighting. Halogen is a good way to romanticize the outdoors.
LEDs have a whiter light which will show the actual color of the landscape. They are also cost effective.
Uttermost Accessories Joselyn, Small Wall Sconces, S2 19311
Lighting Designs
There is an endless array of lighting designs to choose from. The main designs are – uplighting, downlighting, spotlights, surface lights, path lights, and wall lighting.
Uplighting is directed upwards since it is used to feature landscape wonders such as fountains and trees. Downlighting is positioned downwards such as fixtures found on the carport roof.
Spotlights are bright lights that are often aimed at particular features such as a sculpture, tree or any beautiful water feature. Surface lighting is built into step surfaces, decks and walls. This is the lighting that you need to enhance security in your home.
Path lighting can be placed on intervals on the walkway or pathway. Their function is pretty simple – so you won’t trip as you walk at night. Lastly, wall lighting is that flat panel that is built into your walls. It illuminates the feature wall and can even highlight the boundary for security measure.
Power Sources
There are often two power sources to choose from – solar or mains power. Solar energy is the best kind of energy source if you are environmentally-conscious. It is a renewable energy source which means you can recharge the batteries during the day and use them during the night.
You can say goodbye to unsightly cables if you choose to use solar-powered outdoor lights. These may not be as bright as electric lights, though, so make sure to weigh your options before you jump on the bandwagon.
If you pick electricity as your energy source, then you are going to need a transformer. This will act like a power board where the lights and power point are plugged in. Ask a professional electrician about the number of lights that are allowed to be assigned to one transformer. It is probable that you would need more than one transformer for your outdoor lighting.
Electrical lights require cables and wiring. You can do the installation yourself so long as you would just use a 12-volt transformer.
Tags: general lighting, home lighting, improving home lighting, landscape lighting, lighting fixture, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, outdoor lighting, pathway lights, security lights, shopping for lighting fixture, tips
Posted in Lighting, Outdoors Style | No Comments »
Saturday, October 15th, 2016
Hooker Furniture Dining Room Sorella Pedestal Dining Table with 1.20in leaf
Peace is one of the most-planned concepts in many homes yet it is also one of the least achieved. This is lacking in many homes because of several aspects – physical, emotional, even spiritual. Peaceful and meditative homes are not always quiet. A peaceful atmosphere can be established by a few disciplinary and interior design concepts.
Follow Flexible Routines
It is crucial to have a daily or weekly routine. This established routine is the key to keeping your nerves in check. A schedule will also tell you when to accomplish certain tasks. It is important to begin with a flexible routine or you would end up destroying an otherwise peaceful interior design.
Plan Ahead
No goal is achieved without proper planning. If you don’t want to make those cramming, last minute decisions, then you have to write down the elements that will make a room more peaceful.
A huge part of planning also requires house rules. Expectations have to be written down and posted where everyone could see them. The entire family could work together to keep a room more peaceful if they know what are expected of them.
Create Meditative Rooms
Now that you’ve planned and set a few rules and established a routine, it’s time to walk into your home and recognize which room (or rooms) would soon get a heavier door, one that would absorb sound. Create an inspiring atmosphere in the room.
Peace Is Zero Clutter
Clutter is equal to chaos. Clutter leaves you looking for lost stuff and having things that you don’t actually need in your home. Decluttering should be a huge part of your plan, too. You don’t want to end up with bulging closets or piles of papers that you no longer need inside filing cabinets.
It’s time to take the mop, broom and other cleaning aids and tackle the tasks. You would soon discover that clutter had a lot to do with your stressful living.
Decluttering could also mean removing any bad memories from your home. That picture frame hanging on the wall might be your ex’s gift to you. This and other such stuff will only remind you of the pain that could lead to unnecessary stress.
The removal of these bad reminders will bring you a step closer to setting up a meditative space.
Choose Colors Wisely
Colors affect people’s psyche in ways that are difficult to explain. Studies have proven that colors even have the power to alter body temperature as well as appetite. Colors can also affect moods or people’s energy levels.
Now that you know these, find the colors that could help you meditate such as green or pale blue.
Appreciate Nature
Humans have a natural tendency to like and appreciate the beauty of nature. You can, therefore, use natural elements such as potted green plants or a view of the garden outside make your meditative room more relaxing. Apart from greeneries, you can also bring in a wooden bowl as well as a water element fixture.
Positive Atmosphere Only
As you become more aware about the elements that could help you achieve a relaxing space, it is also vital that you learn to control the vibes in that room. You can bring the good vibes in by hanging photos of your family vacations on the wall.
You may also create a slogan that could distinguish that spot from the rest of the rooms in your home. This also means saying no to gadgets and other technological stuff in that room. There must be designated technology zones so that you will have a visual cue that the meditative space remains restful all the time.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, meditation nook, meditation room, meditative space, restful space, setting up the meditation area, spa-like space, tips
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »
Thursday, October 13th, 2016
FFDM Highlands Collection
Shopping for furniture can get tiresome and confusing. There is attractive furniture everywhere but you have to make a serious, contemplative decision before you take the step and begin shopping. Remember that furniture is supposed to last long, meaning, it should be around long enough for you to enjoy, or better yet, for your children and grandchildren to enjoy.
Family heirlooms are not accident pieces. These are intentionally durable and quality pieces that can be kept for heritage’s sake. Your objective in shopping for a would-be heirloom piece is to know what to look for.
Heirloom Must be Handcrafted
From beginning to end, handcrafted pieces are those that have been made solely by hand. These pieces are cut, sanded, fitted, carved, then joined by hand. You might see some flaws because these are handcrafted but these only point to the more desirable unique features that cannot be provided by any machine.
The farthest that you could allow should be woodworker’s glue but for the most of the furniture, these should be joined by equally durable wooden pieces.
Finding handcrafted pieces also means that you find a reputable furniture artisan. Noteworthy furniture designers should catch your attention. They are the ones that can provide the best tables, chairs, beds or lamps that you can hand over to your posterity with pride.
Heirloom Means Quality
There are two kinds of wood that can be used in the creation of quality furniture – softwoods and hardwoods. Common softwood species are pine, cypress, redwood and cedar. Hardwood trees, on the other hand, are cherry, ash, oak, maple, rosewood, poplar, walnut and teak.
Hardwood or softwood offers a different look, feel and hardness. The kind of wood that has been chosen will affect the quality and price of the piece. High quality spells top of the line pieces. The likes of solid Cherry, Oak, Mahogany or Maple are all wonderfully durable which is why these are also some of the most expensive pieces that one could own.
There are also pieces that come in combined woods. An example is when Cherry is used as an exterior piece and underneath it, there is a different kind of wood. When you encounter this kind of combined materials, take a step back and see if you can invest on a more expensive piece instead. Cherry finish is different from solid cherry furniture.
Remember that solid construction is no less than the highest quality of furniture creation. Whether you pick softwood or hardwood, what really counts is having a solid piece. Solid pieces are the most probable heirloom pieces because they are not engineered wood, plywood or particleboards.
Never settle for bargain pieces. Durability and quality come with firm, compact woods so look only for the latter.
Heirloom Means Quality Construction
Fine wood pieces always undergo proper construction. Poor construction undermines even the best of solid wood. Even if there are already technological advancements, the good, old-fashioned way of furniture construction is still considered best especially when you are considering a would-be heirloom piece.
Find joints that are wood-on-wood rather than those with metal or iron brackets. Ask about dovetails or mortise and tenon as these are the strongest joints that furniture manufacturers could use. Fitted joints significantly increase the contact area, hence, the furniture bonding strength becomes more substantial.
Heirloom Spells Superior Finish
Quality finish is essential in protecting your furniture piece and also in bringing out the beauty of the wooden furniture. Finishes provide varying degrees of furniture strength.
High quality finish might take a tad longer to create but they are definitely able to last longer and could provide more protection than other sorts of finishes.
Tags: age-proofing bathrooms, choosing heirloom pieces, fine furniture, furniture finish, heirloom furniture, heirloom pieces, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, quality furniture, shopping for heirloom furniture, tips, vintage, vintage design, vintage furniture, vintage interior design, vintage interiors
Posted in Furniture, Interior Design 101 | No Comments »
Wednesday, October 12th, 2016
Thomasville Bedroom Valeska Ensemble Set .Super Queen. TV-BD1-44
Did you know that you spend a third of your life in bed? This is why you should be concerned about sleep quality as it is a huge part of your life. Uninterrupted sleep is one of the best feelings in the world. That feeling of being able to sink into a comfortable, restful bed and be able to sleep the whole night through is just amazing. Conversely, if you don’t sleep too well, you end up feeling cranky and with a shorter attention span. To achieve quality slumber, you need bedding essentials such as mattress toppers, duvets, mattress and pillow protectors, the right pillow support, etc.
Hotel Look with Duvets
Do you remember how restful your nights have been when you checked into some fancy hotel? Those duvets and layered pillows proved how stylish and chic your bedroom can be.
Choosing the right duvet for the bed and bed linen is a crucial decision that you have to make. You don’t want to be stuck with a duvet that’s a size down. Duvet that’s a size up, however, is the fancy solution to having a cozy night with your loved one.
Children might prefer to have the lighter kind of duvet especially when you’ll be using them on single or double beds. Quilts can be a great way to show off their fave TV or movie characters.
Choose from single, double, king size or super king size duvets.
Thomasville Bedroom Faulkner Ensemble Set (Super Queen) TV-BD1-32
Pillows, Mattress and Your Sleeping Position
You need to know what pillow type would best suit your sleeping position. This is important in picking your preferred mattress tension, too. Quality pillows might not last as long as your quality mattress but they can significantly reduce neck, shoulder and back pains.
People who sleep on their backs should pick a medium-firm pillow. For side sleepers, it is best to pick a pillow or two which are thicker than the common pillow. This is highly recommended for better neck support.
The softer option is best for the front sleepers.
It is best to have your pillows replaced every two years. It becomes doubly important to do so if the pillows are already discolored or lumpy. Disfigured or damaged pillows no longer provide the necessary neck support and they could also contain high levels of epithelial, dust mites and other allergens.
If you want to get the best out of your pillows and mattress, then it is worth considering that you invest in quality protectors for both. Mattress and pillow protectors keep your mattresses and pillows from being soiled or worn out. Protectors will also keep these bedding essentials clean while providing a different level of coziness.
There are now beds that already include mattress toppers. There are different materials to choose from – there’s polyester fiber, feathers, latex or Visco-elastic.
There are also pillow fillings for you to choose from. Just like mattresses, pillows also have natural as well as synthetic fillings. Whether you have memory foam or the hollow fiber type, your pillow choice must always ensure a restful night’s sleep.
Synthetic pillows can be made from Visco-elastic, latex, or polyurethane fillings. There are also pillows that have combinations of these fillings. People who have asthma should choose synthetic pillows since they contain latex foam which doesn’t gather dust.
For people who experience aches and pains while sleeping, there is that quality Visco-elastic filling. This is especially designed to relieve neck and head pressure. This ensures optimum sleeping position for chronic pain sufferers.
Pillows with natural fillings contain duck down, goose down, or both. The more feathers these pillows contain, then the firmer they are. As for your mattress, it is highly recommended that you find quality pillow protectors so that everything would be fresh and clean to your touch.
Tags: bedding, duvet, mattress, mattress and bed, mattress shopping, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, pillow, pillows, shopping for a mattress, shopping for mattress, tips
Posted in Accessories, Bedroom Design, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | No Comments »
Wednesday, October 12th, 2016
Living Room Uttermost Scott Wood Frame Armchair 23233
Plaid can be one or many things. It is the symbol of fashion or the epitome of pattern. Fashion designers all over the world adore the crossed patterns of plaid. It is preppy, it can also be punk. One thing is certain about plaid – it is popular and it has a rich history that other design materials would be envious of.
Plaid in the 1500s
You could tell the difference between tartan and plaid, right? The former refers to special cloth patterns often seen in Scottish clans. Different patterns represent different geographical regions or clans. Plaid, on the other hand, was mainly a Celtic kilt or a blanket. Eventually, plaid became popular with the British and Americans. They created a pattern that looked pretty much like tartan but is not quite like it.
Records from 1538 showed royalty showing much appreciation for this pattern. King James V even gave plaid gifts to his wife.
Plaid in the 1700s
Tartan was prohibited in Britain in the 18th century because it was associated with the Scottish Rebellion of 1745. This print did not show up till 1782 where plaid became legal. It soon became a staple pattern on some formal occasions.
Plaid and the Lumberjack Tradition
From Europe, plaid became popular in the U.S. Buffalo plaid started in the 1850s with the distinctive red and black checks becoming a staple among lumberjacks.
Plaid shirt then was mass-produced by Pendleton back in 1924. It soon became a casual wear and in 1936, a winter essential.
1970s Plaid
Decades after, plaid enjoyed enormous popularity. It returned to its rebellious origins, though, during the ‘70s. During this era, plaid was used in suits as well as interior design. Queen Elizabeth II popularized the Royal Stewart Tartan and, pretty soon, the pattern became a prevalent monarchial look.
1980s Plaid
This decade showed the most interesting development in plaid. The preppy look began where movie stars and even Princess Diana took notice. Almost all public figures had their own piece or two of this interesting fabric in their closets.
Hooker Furniture Living Room Melange Mirrored Plaid Chest 638-85054: Who says plaid should only be seen on fabrics?
Plaid Furniture
It was no surprise that plaid became a staple piece in furniture, too. The cozy and crisp look of this pattern provided the perfect covering for love seats, sofas, couches, and other living room and bedroom furniture.
Plaid is a strong pattern so it might also present some decorative restrictions. This should not stop you from design possibilities, though. You could begin with paint chips which match all the colors on your plaid-covered furniture. Lay out these chips together with the fabric sample then carefully examine by taking a step back.
Plaid works best with neutrals such as tan, gray, cream, black, brown or white. You can use this combination if you want to be on the safe side. This means putting plaid-upholstered couch right on top of polished wood flooring.
Plaid isn’t just red and black, though. It could also be that blue and white crispiness which can match well with glass lamps, warm tones of wood, sea grass matting, gold, copper, and just about any warm-colored metals.
Plaid can also provide the necessary basis for your color selection. There are two or three-colored plaids in the market. This means you can choose from two or three colors from which your overall color scheme would come.
Plaid could also spell mixed patterns for the rest of your décor. This is a great way to update the look of your home. Don’t just over mix. Use substantial amounts of block colors then just carefully add the plaid patterns.
Tartan-style plaid can present you with challenges if you over-analyze the colors that it offers – black, yellow, ivory, burgundy and dark royal blue. This complex plaid should be balanced with neutral walls or woodwork.
Enjoy plaid. It offers so many design opportunities which you can use in your home.
Tags: 14th century, 16th century, 1970s, fabric, fabric choices, fabric options, history, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, plaid, plaid fabric, seating fabrics, sofa fabric, tips, upholstery
Posted in Accents, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Themes | No Comments »
Tuesday, October 11th, 2016
Living Room Uttermost Garrett Mid-century Swivel Chair 23268
While a lot of people do love suede, not as many would be willing to go through the pains of taking care of it; it can be difficult to clean and maintain. If you’re looking for ways to care for suede then here are some pieces of advice –
Suede Is About Preventive Measures
If you’re about to bring home a suede couch, then the most crucial thing that you need to do is to take preventive measures. This means you must apply protective coating prior to sitting on it. You also need to apply these coats on a regular basis.
There are many suede protectors available in the market. Research which ones have the best reviews which would also come at a reasonable price then make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to apply the coating.
Brush Your Suede
Most of the time, all that would be required of you is to brush your suede couch. Brushing suede regularly can help keep it fresh and in a great condition. There are special suede brushes or you can just use a simple terry cloth to clean the couch or any kind of suede furniture.
Vacuum Your Suede
It is imperative to keep the debris off so just turn on your vacuum cleaner and use it over your suede couch. Find the attachment meant especially for upholstery then let the vacuum go over the surface of your couch as well as the cushions.
Be sure to vacuum every nook and cranny. Vacuuming can be done once each month.
American Leather Bedroom Queen Footboard MTR-LFB-QN
Anti-Stain and Water Spots
Should your suede couch suffer from water spots or stains despite your best efforts, then don’t fret. There are still some ways to repair the damage. Use a fine grade sandpaper to gently remove stains from your suede piece. Be sure to use circular motions when cleaning.
In cleaning small stains, well, did you know that all you need is a pencil eraser?
For water spots, just allow them to dry then use that suede brush again. Stickier stains such as that of food or red wine would need a specialized cleaner. Just make sure to check the bottle before you apply onto your suede couch. The solution must, of course, be suitable for suede use.
Cleaning Microfiber Suede Fabric
Here are the tools and materials that you would need to clean a special kind of suede fabric –
Spray bottle
Water
Dish soap
White vinegar or baking soda
Rubbing alcohol
Sponge or soft towel
Soft scrub brush
Microfiber suede is made with the tiniest synthetic fibers which would ensure the softness and charm of any couch. This kind of suede is also more resistant to stains and is known to be more durable. It is also more resistant to some spills which means the liquids would build up into beads first before the fabric gets soaked. This gives you ample time to run and get something to wipe the couch with.
Microfiber suede repels water but it would also make forgotten spills, well, forgotten. This is why you should treat spills as soon as they happen.
Microfiber suede comes with different labels, hence, there are also different cleaning solutions for each. For W-labeled couch, all you would need is a water-based suede cleaning solution. There are special solvents for the S-labeled pieces while the S-W-labeled pieces can make do with either a water-based or a solvent cleaner.
X label, on the other hand, means you need a vacuum to clean up the spill. There is no liquid cleaner for this kind of suede fabric.
Be sure to check the tags of your suede couch so you’ll know how to care for it.
Tags: caring for suede, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, suede, suede maintenance, tips
Posted in Accents, Accessories, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | No Comments »
Monday, October 10th, 2016
Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Pomodoro 1 Light Distressed Pendant 22088 is perfect for any rustic, modern or industrial setting.
Pendant lighting is being used by a lot of homes lately because it is extremely versatile. It comes in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles with each base, stem and light source offering a different look.
Pendants are best used when you want to have deliberate lighting at specific areas. They are also perfect for those dark corners in your home as well as adding depth to the design that you’ve chosen.
Pendant Lighting – Task or Decorative?
Pendant lights can be used as a task or decorative light. These provide downward and more focused lighting. Think of places like bedrooms and reading nooks. There are even some homeowners who are already replacing their bathroom vanity lights with pendant lights that have been strategically-placed. You might also want to use pendant lighting over the dining table and in your kitchen. You can install a row of pendants over a kitchen island.
Pendant Light Materials
Pendant lighting fixtures are artistic center pieces. These are not a new concept yet they have recently been revived and people are going crazy over the latest designs. Here are some of the most common materials used as pendant lighting –
Glass. Clear glass is beneficial because it would never overwhelm the design, it is just there to reflect the interior design theme. This material works great in just about any kind of room which is why it is considered to be most cost effective.
Glass pendants use acrylic or glass in order to maximize light output. This is a material that will give you a concentrated light, the kind that is best used for areas meant for specific tasks such as your home office.
There are also colorful glass pendants that can be used for decorative purposes.
Copper. Drop pendants in this material are a remarkable sight. Copper is considered edgy and modern, it could also be rustic because it is warmer than other metals. Use more than one copper pendant then group them together at varying length.
Fabric. This is the kind of pendant lighting that you should go for if you want to achieve a diffused light. The fabric shades would give off a softer glow, the kind of glow that could make a room look more romantic. Use fabric pendant lights over dining tables or kitchen islands.
Wanna entertain guests but you want to make sure that the place still looks cozy? Then fabric is the right choice for you.
Timber, Wicker, Etc. There are many other materials that can be used to create pendant lights. Timber is a wonderful choice for a softer, more rustic look. Wicker can also provide the same level of awe.
Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Molecule 5 Light Oil Rubbed Bronze Pendant 22058
Pendant Means Fashion
Home design trends now place pendant lighting at the fashion forefront. These lighting fixtures are now mainly bought because of their aesthetic value. There are pendant lights that look like flowers, sea grass, and just about any kind of art that you can think of. Many artisans spend time creating unique designs for pendant lighting.
Use pendant lights to decorate your home and make it look and feel more like you. Just imagine the charm and drama that pendant lights have provided for foyers, atriums and open-spaced rooms.
Look for the trendiest designs for your home. These lights can be a part of the ensemble that will anchor the rest of a room’s design. So go ahead and illuminate with pendant lights in a kids’ room, to cast a romantic glow in the master bedroom, to become like a task light in the office or library, or to welcome guests in your lovely living room.
Pendant lights are not just there to provide light anymore, they’re there also for show so maximize their lovely features to your advantage.
Tags: ambient lighting, lighting fixture, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, pendant, pendant lighting, pendant lighting fixture, pendant lights, tips, types of lighting
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Lighting | No Comments »
Friday, October 7th, 2016
Drexel Heritage Living Room Focal Point Drum Table 640-844
For the past years, there is one decorative accessory that has been creating waves in the world of design. It is a piece that can add luster, texture and color to any space. It can also effectively be used as a room accent or a side table. Say hello to the Chinese garden stool also known as the Chinese drum table.
Chinese Garden Stool History
Very little is known regarding the history of the Chinese drum table. What’s certain is that it came from China and was traditionally used to beautify gardens. This accessory has been used for no less than a thousand years. It is probable that it evolved from the Buddhist tradition wherein natural elements such as rocks or tree stumps were used as seats.
Back in the day, Chinese homes were built around a beautiful courtyard so this emphasis has always been on the landscaping as well as the charming gardens. During the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), the Chinese drum table was already being used both indoors and outdoors as casual seats; indoor stools were often portable and made of wood while indoor furniture was made of stone so that it can withstand the harsh elements.
During the Ming Dynasty (starting from the early 17th century), a wide range of decoration was introduced. This included fretwork, pierced motifs and relief décor. A common feature was the simulated nail heads which are often situated on the upper and lower portions of the barrel.
Chinese Garden Stools Today
These days, barrel-shaped ceramic stools adorn both indoors and outdoors. These add a touch of Orient to many living spaces. Some are being used as simple decorative elements while some are quirky additions to an already beautiful place. Some are adorned with glass tops to make the table more of a table.
The uses for this decorative piece are literally almost limitless.
Materials used from the olden days till now are varied – there are stoneware, glazed pieces, wood and stone stools. Porcelain was later used as well as ceramic materials.
Ceramic Chinese garden stools come with simulated nail heads around the barrel’s upper and lower parts. These mimic the ancient wooden drums by the Chinese where the tops and bottoms were fixed and stretched over then affixed by nails.
Here are other ways that you can use a Chinese garden stool –
Hooker Furniture Living Room Melange Mia Drum Table
Chinese drum stools are quite stylish and while their name suggests being used in the garden, there are various practical uses for it. Stained and varnished wooden pieces can add an amazing appeal and color inside the living room.
As an end table, the Chinese garden stool is quite common. If you want your setup to be unique, then use metal, slate, glass or wood stools as end tables. Use task lighting for this shorter table. If you love reading, then this is not the correct table to place your reading lamp and stack of books.
Chinese garden stools are best used as chairs because that’s what they are in the first place.
Another interesting way to highlight this decorative item is to use it as an art pedestal. It can rise up the art piece to an ideal viewing height. Of course, take note that there are also art pieces that shouldn’t be viewed at this height. Use the drum stool to showcase ornamental items. Top it with items that create visual interest.
Putting potted plants atop the Chinese garden stool is also a way of showcasing the beautiful, natural element.
Tags: Chinese drum table, Chinese garden stool, history, history of garden stools, McCreerys, tips
Posted in Accents, Accessories, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements | No Comments »
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