Are you thinking of decorating your home using patterns? This can prove to be real fun, but at the same time, if you use too many patterns it will be overwhelming. Whether you want to make a bathroom look nicer or you want to make a small room appear larger and taller, you need to take several factors into account when using patterns.
You can bring appeal to the areas of your home with the use of the many tips and different patterns found in this article. Just keep these things in mind when it comes to what you’re going to do in your home.
Patterns can visually transform the size of a room
There are lots of patterns out there, you can even use some to make a room look bigger. Geometric patterns are best for making a room appear larger; vertical patterns can make a room look taller. Are you looking for a feminine touch in a room? If so, why not use floral patterns? They work wonders within the same color scheme. If you use them outside of the same color scheme, or use them too much, you’ll create a confused and overwhelming look. A motif pattern is another great one, this is when you use a picture over and over; this can have a theme or just be abstract, it’s your choice. An example of a motif pattern is having frogs on a bathroom wall.
Incorporating color with patterns
Don’t just go crazy with a pattern, you need to be sure to keep three important tips in mind when working with them. You need to be sure to keep the background colors the same when using coordinating patterns. For example, you need to keep green as the background in various pieces if it’s your background color. Also, don’t use pattern for the whole room.
If you have black and white zebra print pillows on a black couch make sure that the pillows are the only items using the pattern so it doesn’t become overwhelming. Or you can keep the rest of the colors in the room subtle by only using patterns on the wall. Considering using both textured and plain fabric in a room to add a more unique appeal is also a great idea.
Just remember that you will overwhelm everything in a room if you use too many large patterns. Since small patterns work well in rooms with a variety of surface angles, they work well in small rooms.
We can agree that patterns can bring something big to the table, but using them is up to you. Too few patterns work against you because it can make a room look a bit boring. Keep all these ideas in mind while you shop around.
Do you want a small room to have a more spacious look? If so, look towards geometric patterns; you can make a room look taller or wider with vertical or horizontal stripes. As long as you don’t over do it your room will turn out just great. Get creative, let it flow and just have a fun time.
About the Author…
For over four decades Leon Tuberman has helped people with their home furnishings and interior decorating needs. He owns and manages his family owned furniture store. They have a huge inventory of handcrafted American built solid oak furniture for your bedroom, home office and living room. It doesn’t matter whether you’re shopping for bookcases for your family room or a mission dresser for your bedroom then they have everything you need.
Filed under Remodeling by on Sep 20th, 2011. 
When you want to plunge into interior decorating and design but aren’t sure of your own style, there are several methods for you to do in order to reduce the choices.
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Online Tests
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Several online resources like ivillage.com or kaboose.com offer designing style tests which includes ten questions which you’ll most likely finish in 10 mins. Â When the end result is created, the test can decide your likes and dislikes and classify you having a particular interior design style.
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Many are amazed with all the results of the test, yet because it pertains to your subjective aspects the outcomes may vary every once in awhile.  Right now, you could score as “contemporary†but after many weeks or months you may develop a penchant for antiques and minimalist design schemes.
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Print Materials & Other Media
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To assist you further, look through printed resources, for instance magazines and books, or other media such as home design Television shows and of course the Internet. Â These are sufficient sources of inspiration. Â Pick out the designs that focus on your own personality and when you see a pattern come up then that might be your primary design style. Â For example, you could love black lacquer furnishings from the Orient or perhaps a Mission fittings and furnishings.
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You could also discover whether you prefer country cottage wallpaper or rustic hard-wood floors and huge throw rugs. Â You would only understand these as you go along with the exercise.
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Central Theme
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One other benefit from executing this is that you will get certain ideas which you’ll mix and match and add your very own touch. Â Use a central piece or concentrate on a style influenced by an artwork, food or your favorite scarf. Â Get your principles from nature, travel, or whatever it really is that floats your boat.
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Current Trends
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Other themes that are “in†are global and modern looks with eccentric mix from Russia, Morroco,  India and Latin America.  Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Hollywood Regency are strong, complex luxury themes that never go out of style.  It is really a wide combination of these styles that entice modern day home owners and clients.
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Color Schemes
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Astonishingly, perhaps because of the many yuppie bachelors that at present employ the assistance of internal decorators, “menswear†palette of gray, navy blue and earth tones of brown and black is an emerging trend.  Popular pallettes would obviously function as the deep blues, rosy reds and dusty purples which are very pleasing to the eyes and relaxing to the mind since it imitates the hues of the sunset.  Kitchen colors are spiced up by getting cues from fresh fruits and vegetables in shades of orange, lemon yellow, citrus green and apple red.
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You’re the King
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In your decorating journey you need to let your emotions guide you. Â Your true nature must be mirrored inside your use of textures, fabrics, colors, woods, lighting and flooring. Â These must also provide you with a comfortable feeling of affluence. Â And all you combine into your design should always have a purpose and meaning.
Filed under Remodeling by on Dec 23rd, 2010. Comment.
Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Though decorating a dining room table might sound hard to some, it isn’t. Though some people go all out with their tables and spend thousands of dollars on decorating it, you might not even need hundreds to get a dining room table decorated in a beautiful way that you’ll be proud of. You can really come up with a great looking dining room table on a budget with a little creativity and careful use of things you might already have.
Use Placemats or a Tablecloth on the Dining Room Table
Adding placemats or a tablecloth to a dining room table is one of the easiest ways to add instant style. While some placemats and tablecloths can be quite expensive, finding inexpensive pieces shouldn’t be too hard at department stores or discount stores. If you want to save some extra money, you can always buy some fabric and use your sewing machine to make your own placemats or tablecloths.
The tables style will be determined by the fabric that you choose for your dining room table. If you’re going for clean and simple, plain colored fabric is perfect; however, you can go with patterns and designs if yo only plan on using placemats or the tablecloth for the table.
Utilize the China You Already Have
Display your good china on your dining room table instead of simply storing it in a kitchen cabinet or hutch. Lay out the china settings in order to add interest to the table. Never using the china settings isn’t a problem, they aren’t there for use, they’re there for décor reasons. Now, you don’t need to pay for a new setting to display on the able since you’re using your good set.
Look to Nature for Décor Pieces
Nature can provide many free options that differ when it comes to decorating. The outdoors can help you create some very unique and beautiful dining room centerpiece ideas.
Vases of freshly picked flowers don’t just smell nice, they also make pretty table centerpieces.
A great way to get your table ready for the fall is with a bowl filled with pinecones and dried flowers.
Or maybe you can place apples in a bowl for a centerpiece if you have an apple tree or know someone with an apple tree.
Fruits such as lemons and limes can also be used.
You can also use a simple potted plant for a clean look on the dining room table.
Use Candles to Decorate Your Dining Room Table
Candles do more than bring a touch of romanticism to the dining room, they also provide style and interest to the table. Inexpensive candles can easily be found that you can place in a row or circle on the table for a centerpiece. You can just as well use a candelabra for the centerpiece.
Another creative idea is using floating candles in conjunction with a glass bowl with water and placing it on the table. You shouldn’t have too much of a problem finding something that fits your style and table since there are so many candles to choose from.
Decorating your dining room table doesn’t have to cost you lots of money. Instead you should just stick to your budget and go with these great ideas for decorating a dining room for a stylish and unique table.
About the Author:
For the past 25 years Avo Barsoumian has helped home owners with their home flooring and interior decorating needs. He is the owner of Carpet Wagon, a family owned carpet installation company in Orange County. The carry the best in elegant hardwood flooring, beautiful laminate flooring and plush carpeting. So whether you’re looking for carpet contractors for your new home or hardwood plank floors to makeover your older home then Carpet Wagon carries everything you need.
Filed under Remodeling by on Sep 28th, 2010. Comment.
The bedroom is the most common romantic getaway for people within their homes. All five senses need to be enticed in a romantic bedroom, so a room with romantic flair will take quite a bit of consideration and time It isn’t as simple as just lighting some candles and having silk sheets. A bedroom that is truly romantic will not only appeal to both sexes, but it must also be well thought out.
Decorating the Bed in a Romantic Bedroom
In a romantic bedroom, keeping your bed inviting is important. A comfortable mattress, plush pillows and luxurious sheets and blankets are all things to include. You color scheme should consist of calming colors like light blue, pink and ivory or jewel toned colors like purple or emerald green. If it really isn’t setting the mood then stay away from it when you want a romantic bed, especially frilly lace and uncomfortable accents.
Lighting for a Romantic Bedroom
Those going for a romantic feel should really avoid using harsh bright lights. Instead of going with bright lights, softer and filtered lights should be used in the room. Use bulbs with lower wattages, or use lamps for the room’s light instead of overhead light fixtures. You can for a basic light fixture, or a chandelier depending on how much space you have in the room. Something else that would work just as well is decorative lamp shades that filter light into colors like light pink or soft red.
Accessories for a Romantic Bedroom
Candles are probably the most important accessory in a bedroom for giving it ambience. When it comes to candles, you have many things to choose from; you can go with large pillar candles that sit on decorative plates of boxes to smaller floating candles that you can place in a glass vase. You room, and the style that you are trying to accomplish, will determine the type and color of candles you will use.
Some other accessories that you can use in a romantic bedroom are decorative mirrors, flowers, canopy drapes and framed artwork. No distractions are necessary in a romantic bedroom, so one accessory to stay away from is the television.
Make a Romantic Bedroom Practical
Just remember that you will still need to live and sleep in your bedroom. Some people tend to outdo themselves and end up feeling uncomfortable in their own room. You don’t necessarily need dozens of things in the bedroom for it to be romantic. Choose a few important pieces for your room and build on from there.
You can have a simple bedroom that still has the romantic atmosphere that you want. Don’t fear having to use practical items like an armoire or a nightstand in your bedroom. You can dress up these items with many different accessories to help them flow with the romantic style.
When it comes to choosing a style for the bedroom it is quite common to go with the romantic bedroom. Not only can it be a great getaway from the rest of your home, it should also be a place that is comfortable and inviting for laying your head at night.
For the past 25 years Avo Barsoumian has helped home owners with their home flooring and interior decorating needs. He is the owner and manager of a popular home flooring company in Pasadena. They have a huge selection of elegant hardwood flooring, beautiful laminate flooring and plush carpeting. So whether you’re looking for mohawk carpets price for your new home or discount shaw carpeting to makeover your older house then Carpet Wagon carries everything you need.
Filed under Remodeling by on Sep 21st, 2010. Comment.
You have been putting off the makeover of your living room for a while, but it really needs one. You have just received a call that your in-laws will be visiting from out of town. You have no idea on what to do but you need to update the room quick! This article will help you decorate your living room without having to spend too much money.
You in-laws will not only be impressed, but you will have quickly finished redecorating the room, the room that has been needing a makeover for months.
Paint a Wall
No, engaging in hours of hard work painting the entire living room isn’t necessary. You only have to pick one wall, paint it a bold, intense color and make sure that it blends with some of your current accents. It can be amazing to see how much depth this small task put into a room. Doing this will add warmth and a great burst color to the room.
Can’t Afford New Furniture?
Invest in some good slipcovers if you need new furnishings but don’t have the budget for it at the moment. The sofa should have a slipcover with a solid color, accented with richly textured pillows that will bring out the freshly painted wall’s new color. Do you have a boldly patterned throw? It can be casually tossed over the back of the sofa, or a recliner or rocking chair.
Take the furniture and move it around, removing it from the walls. Group it closely in an warm arrangement that looks cozy and welcoming. If an area rug is going to be added, make sure that it includes the room’s colors and that it is centered in the middle of the grouping.
Clear the Clutter
Clutter will most often make a room seem very messy and disorganized. By removing clutter from the floors, furniture and table tops, you will be able to visually increase the size of the room! The room will look much better with its cleaner and more organized look. A general rule to follow is that a single table should never have more than three item placed on it.
Add more bursts of color to the walls to take it all a little further. Attempt to contrast and coordinate the colors of the room with simple mats or stencil designs on the wall. Three colors usually add the most interest and appeal to a room without making it look excessively complex. Finish off the job with a vase of fresh flowers and a warmly scented candle. Finishing up will mean that your living room will now be up-to-date.
At times, all we need is a little extra incentive in order to get things done when we’ve been meaning to do it for a while. It doesn’t matter if company is coming on short notice, or if you just want to refresh the room a bit, use these tips and get them to work for you! A transformation of your room can take place quickly, and before dark tonight in order to add something to an otherwise dull room. By adding bold colors and accents to the room, you will have brought new life to the area.
About the Author…
Leon Tuberman has been in the home furnishings and interior decorating industry for 40 years. He is the owner and operator of popular furniture store in California. They carry a large selection of Amish made solid oak furniture for your living room, dining room and bedroom. Whether you’re looking for a distressed dining room table or a vintage dining sets for your kitchen nook and dining room then they have everything you need.
Filed under Remodeling by on Sep 18th, 2010. Comment.
There is a room that we use often and is often neglected when it comes to decorating; this room is the bathroom. Few accents and white walls make most baths appear like those of a hospital’s. This room is about showering, shaving and relaxing away the day’s stresses in the tub. Why not add more appeal to the room? The tips and ideas offered in this article will aid you in making the bath more appealing.
Make the most of your bathroom, because most people visiting your home will see this room.  It doesn’t matter if your bathroom is large or small, you can truly change the look of the room.
Tips for Small Baths
Is your bathroom small and only big enough for the necessities of the room? Painting the walls a light, soft pastel color can visually open up space in the room. Items that are visible in the room like towels and shower curtains should be colored in lighter tones. If you have any items jutting out from  the walls, or shelves, remove them. Doing this will help to open up straight, clean lines, leading to a more spacious look. Brighter lighting and additional mirrors to reflect light should be taken into consideration.
Floors also follow the same rules about being light. You can visually enlarge the room by making sure that the tiles are light in color.
Have a Large Bath?
The larger the room, the more options that you’ll have. Use dramatic color on the walls and add accents if you want a rich and elegant look. A bath will look beautiful with a rich burgundy wall accented with deep hues of blue and green. Keep your shower curtain, towels and other fabrics in coordination with the walls. Framing your vanity mirror with molding will give it extra appeal. In a spacious bath, stripes and bold florals will work well.
Larger baths can benefit from bold and dramatic floors. Ceramic tiles, intricately decorated, will add even more depth and warmth to the room’s appeal.
Accents
No matter the size of the bath, depth and interest can be added to the room with pictures. Keeping things light is important in a small bath, so light colored prints with metal or no frames are good additions to the room. However, a larger bathroom can handle large pictures with bold and dramatic frames.
Minimize clutter in small bathrooms. All necessities such as toothpaste, shaving cream and lotions should be stored underneath the vanity leaving the top of it bare. This will help achieve a clean, open look. A larger bathroom can look beautiful if you simply add color coordinated candles and plenty of plants. You can also make the room smell wonderful with candles.
No matter the size of your bath, consider adding patterns to the walls with stencils, or a feather duster to create soft abstract patterns Always remember to keep paints lighter in the smaller baths.
Try to not ignore your bath room. This room is one of the most frequently used rooms of your home, and taking the time to make this room comfortable and stylish will impress any visitors you have. These tips and ideas will ensure that your bathroom is anything but ordinary and dull!
About the Author…
Leon Tuberman has been in the home furnishings and interior decorating industry for 40 years. He owns and manages a popular furniture store in California. They have a huge inventory of handcrafted American built solid oak furniture for your bedroom, home office and living room. It doesn’t matter whether you’re shopping for a small dining table or square dining sets for your breakfast nook and dining room then they have everything you need.
Filed under Bathroom Remodeling by on Aug 15th, 2010. Comment.
Does your bathroom feel so small that you can barely turn around? There are many possible ways to make your bathroom feel more spacious and less cramped. With the help of this article you can learn some neat tips that will help you turn your small bathroom into one that you can enjoy.
By changing the color, lighting and a few other things, your bathroom can be transformed without adding to the square footage. Whether you want your bathroom to look cozy and inviting or elegant, it can all be accomplished with a miniscule amount of changes.
Pale Colors Open Up a Room
This does not mean that you need to paint your bathroom white, but instead that light, pastel colors make space appear larger visually. A dark colored floor should probably be changed to a lighter colored one. Lighter and softer shades, like cream and peach, are good colors for walls. Darker, bolder colors should be used for smaller accents such as towel holders or artwork for the walls. Lighter colors on the top of your vanity, as well as the doors underneath, are preferable. This can be easily achieved with little paint for wooden cabinet doors. Towels should have light shades, and compliment the room, if they are used as décor.
Bring More Light In
You can visually open up, and brighten, any room by adding light to the area. Alternate sources of lighting, like wall sconces, recessed lighting in the ceiling, and even a small lamp for the vanity can all be added to the bath. If you have the means for a skylight, consider purchasing one in order to allow natural light to brighten up the room.
If It Takes Up Space, Take It Out!
It is common for people to have extra shelves in their bathrooms for holding towels, cotton balls and other vanity items. Objects that protrude into the room often detract from an open and spacious look. Shelving and other storage units should be taken out of the room; items can be stored under you vanity, or in a linen closet elsewhere. Removing clutter, to find that the room looks larger, will amaze you.
Expand With Mirrors
How can mirrors expand your room? Well, it has been known for a long time that they reflect light; this will make your room look larger, and this is exactly what you want. The color and design of the bath can easily be reflected by simply replacing the mirror over the vanity with a larger one. Using an over-sized mirror works perfectly, but if you prefer to use several mirrors arranged artistically to add interest and reflect light you may. If space allows, you can consider placing another mirror on a separate wall to expand the boundaries.
Clutter always looks messy and, no matter the room, will visually diminish the area. The same holds true for your bathroom. Less clutter means that the room will look cleaner and more streamlined. You should remove clutter on the vanity by storing away smaller items such as toothpaste, lotions, and deodorant in order to free up space. Make sure to put these ideas to use if you want to make you bathroom look as if it has doubled in size!
About the Writer…
Leon Tuberman has been in the home furnishings and interior decorating industry for 40 years. He is the owner and operator of popular furniture store in California. They carry a large selection of Amish made solid oak furniture for your living room, dining room and bedroom. Whether you’re looking for oak tv stands for your living room or family room or oak dining sets for your kitchen nook and dining room then they have everything you need.
Filed under Bathroom Remodeling by on Jul 31st, 2010. Comment.
If you love clean, open spaces that are free of clutter, then modern style décor is the perfect fit for you. Sleek lines and minimal fuss are offered by this style. The design had a reputation for feeling bitter and bleak in the past; however, this contemporary style is warm and welcoming. With the tips in this article you will be able to design your home in a look that is ideal for those who like to keep up with current trends and enjoy a sleek and efficient setting.
Decorating your home in the contemporary style means that you will have to keep some basic rules in mind. Bear in mind that you will have to follow some fundamental rules when decorating your home in this style. Good taste and spaciousness stem from simplicity, texture and subtle touches instead of individual accents in modern décor. These are a few guidelines to get you on your way to creating interesting contemporary spaces.
Keeping Things Sleek and Fresh
You should concentrate on color, shape and space when working with modern décor. Black, white and neutral colors are used as a basis for everything else. The tone of the room is set by walls painted with neutral colors and black furniture . You can then add bold, brightly colored accents to punch up the drama. Equally, you can keep the furnishings colored in neutral tones of cream and sand and have pastel colored walls. In other words, keep the rest of your room neutral if you are going to use color on the walls. The use of white or cream walls should be complimented with black and neutral furniture, keeping the use of vibrant accents to a minimum for added interest.
Simple Lines and Distinct Shapes
The most important part of modern design is architectural detail. Remember: Less is more. Interest and drama come from bold blocks of color, geometric shapes and high ceilings. Windows are to remain uncovered, and walls are to be kept bare without accents that will clutter the clean, sharp lines. Every single piece used in the modern style stands out on its own. Your objective is keeping floors, walls and ceilings as uncluttered as possible. It is often best to use basic blinds or curtains that are sleek and modern with no frills if you live in an area where you must cover your windows.
Choose the right Furnishings
Being able to choose the right furniture is key to modern décor. No added curves or decorations should be present in the styles of furniture for your home. Leaving the legs of sofas, beds and chairs is important. Black, white and other neutral shades of color are used in upholstered furnishings made of natural fabric that provides texture and interest. A bold splash of color can easily be added through throw pillows with bright, abstract or geometric patterns.
Minimal use of accents is important. A single over-sized geometric print in cold color is a perfect example an accent for an entire wall. A large candle in a modern shaped container, or a single potted plant can add another burst of color. Cute accents, floral prints, ruffles or fringes should not be used. Modern décor aims to create bold, basic and roomy spaces. Using these tips will help you create rooms that are interesting, relaxing and spacious.
About the Writer…
Leon Tuberman has four decades of experience in the home furnishings and interior decorating industry. He owns and manages a popular furniture store in California. They carry a large selection of Amish made solid oak furniture for your living room, dining room and bedroom. It doesn’t matter whether you’re shopping for a reclaimed dining table or a high end dining room sets for your breakfast nook and dining room then they have everything you need.
Filed under Remodeling by on Jul 17th, 2010. Comment.
I finally remodeled my kitchen eight years ago. I had waited a long time for this, but finally all the things I’d been dreaming of were going to become reality. At the top of my wish list were more storage and more counter space. Adding an island would give me both. I wanted the island to be the center of activities and to include an overhang for seating and eating.
You can easily add an island to some kitchens without enlarging the room. Unfortunately, I wasn’t so lucky. I was forced to knock down a wall between the combination dining room/family room, which was L-shaped. This area became an informal eating area/great room; the former family room became the formal dining room.
If an island is in your future, consider the following planning ideas I used in building my own kitchen island.
Countertop: We chose a solid Corian surface—wow, what an easy clean-up! It is great for rolling out cookies or piecrust. I’m delighted I opted for this upgrade.
Electrical outlets: If you can, install one on each end. You need at least one outlet for any appliances, such as a mixer, you might want to use. (It’s also nice to be able to plug your laptop in at the island when you want to work in the kitchen.) It doesn’t take much to install a second outlet, especially if you are already running electricity to the island.
Cooktop: I decided to put my cooktop on the island. We installed a Jenn-Aire with a downdraft exhaust vent. For me, the island was the best placement for the cooktop. But your decision should depend on the general layout of the rest of your kitchen. You might want to put a countertop/work area or a sink in your island instead.
Overhang eating area: By extending the countertop on one side–12″ at each end, curving slightly to 18″ in the middle–we created an eating area on the island. This has become one of the most enjoyable parts of our new kitchen! There’s plenty of room for breakfast and lunch on a daily basis. When company comes, the cook can visit with the guests while watching the meal. Conveniently, this space also works great as buffet and serving area. By turning the burners low, you can even keep food warm.
Whether the island contains a cooktop, sink or cutting board, I really encourage adding an overhang. Even if you just have room for one stool, that will make a wonderful space to sit while doing some of the food prep or while reading the paper and having a cup of coffee!
Lighting: It’s really important to have proper lighting over your island. This is one area you don’t want too dark. Over our island we installed three recessed canister-style fixtures and put them on a dimmer switch.
Keep in mind: Plan to have a minimum of two feet around the island for traffic flow. Of course, if you decide to add an eating area, you’ll need even more space.
Avo Barsoumian has been part of the interior decorating and flooring community for the past 25 years. He is the owner of Carpet Wagon, a family owned carpet installation company in Orange County. The offer the largest selection of elegant hardwood flooring, beautiful laminate flooring and plush carpeting under one roof. Searching for that perfect laminate floor in basement for your new condo or carpets to buy to redecorate your older home? Then give Carpet Wagon a call.
Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by on Jul 12th, 2010. Comment.
Utilizing etched glass window film to enhance your plain glass doors or windows is one of the most inexpensive and efficient ways to add style to your decor. Doors and windows garnished with it showcase the identical look of real etched glass devoid of its high cost. Etched glass window film is easily available in an extensive range of styles and designs. Moreover, they are simple to apply and normally last for a long time span. Home window film has a wide array of benefits that most aren’t aware of.
When choosing the best window film for your home, just pick the pattern or color that suites your privacy needs and decor the most. There’s no shortage of places to purchase window film from, including the internet. At times, overwhelmed with too many choices, it’s easy to get confused. For options, there are different designs that comprise of geometric, abstract, ornamental, traditional and contemporary patterns. You’ll also find lovely artistic portrayals of natural vines, leaves and flowers.
Select a film that aids in masking the whole window if privacy is your sole concern. There’s even specially designed patterns meant to adorn the corners or borders of your door, window or a classy dressing mirror. Selecting the perfect etched glass film is up to your imagination. So don’t be afraid to make your own unique look. Applying oval glass centerpieces on your windows is perfect for adding a hint of decoration without over doing it.
Most etched glass window films contain a finely crushed glass powder in order to give it a brilliant sparkle and shimmering finish. Window films are resistant to moisture as well, making your shower enclosures a great place to apply the film. Showering in style has never been easier.
Glass window etched films are simple to apply as well as easy to remove. So if you are bored of those plain glass windows, it is time to enhance them with unique and cost-effective designer etched glass films and experience the added sophistication to your rooms.
Filed under Remodeling by on Jul 2nd, 2010. Comment.
Do you want your home to look beautiful and stylish but don’t have the budget to hire an interior decorator? Fortunately, doing things yourself is always an alternative and a good one at that, as when you’re personally involved, your natural style preferences and personality emerge. Here are some things to keep in mind as well as the “do’s and don’ts†of decorating your own home.
Good Bets for Success
Considering the architectural design and location can help you make the most of your home. You want to be able to maximize the architectural assets of your home while at the same time incorporating your own unique style and personality. Your objective should be to achieve the perfect balance, lessening any need to redecorate on a frequent basis.
Each room should be decorated using a signature piece. Go with any piece you prefer—modern, abstract, or elegant—and then decorate around it. A signature piece, such as a painting, can act as a basis for you to incorporate colors, textures, and design for the rest of the furnishings to complete the look.
Combine Various Design Elements
Do you want your home to be unique and appealing? The way to accomplish a unique look that’s totally your own, you need to blend various design elements together. Combine wood pieces with bold patterns such as stripes, plaids, and florals, and you can really add some interest and depth to the room. While a wood floor makes a statement on its own, it can really come to life with the addition of some boldly hued geometric-patterned rugs. You might also add some boldly colored and patterned throw blankets and pillows to solid-colored sofas and other furnishings.
It’s important to pay close attention to the scale of a room. Furnishings should be similar in both size and shape. Part of achieving that professionally decorated look is the repeated use of shapes, fabrics, and colors to help bring the design of the room together.
A Few Things to Avoid
When decorating your home, there are a few key mistakes to avoid. For starters, don’t let a friend or member of your family tell you how to decorate your home. Listen to their suggestions, of course, but remember that this is your home. The goal is always for you and your family to feel comfortable and pleased with the décor and design.
When arranging their furnishings, many people place everything against the walls, spreading it out in order to give the room a more spacious look. In many cases, this is a mistake. Instead, try arranging your furniture in an intimate grouping away from the walls. Set out a large area rug and group all your dining chairs, mission dining tables, and sofas around it, thereby creating a more personal and welcoming look and feel in the room.
Don’t Try to Display Everything You Own
Many people have picked up many collectibles over the years. In fact, you may have an attic, basement, or closet packed with all your favorite accents and accessories. However, when it comes time to decorate a room, you don’t want to try to use them all. You’ll just end up with a room that looks messy and cluttered.
A great solution is to save some of these items for later. This allows you to keep the room fresh by switching out old collectibles for ones you have stored. By using less, you also convey the importance of each piece you have carefully selected to display.
Keep these tips in mind the next time you’re looking to update or refresh your home. This way your do-it-yourself décor job will yield professional results.
Filed under Remodeling by on Jul 1st, 2010. Comment.
Typically, apartments tend to be in the city. If you call a city apartment home yet long for the warm, cozy atmosphere of a country home, this is something you can certainly achieve. Just because you live in a big or small city doesn’t mean you have to live in a home that’s not welcoming or comfortable. You want to walk in the door to your home and feel like you’ve been transported to the country, recalling the scent of wildflowers and how fresh air can seem to flow through every fiber of your being. So instead of living in a blank, expressionless apartment, here are some ways you can turn that space into a place that feels like home.
Start with the Furniture
Decorating in country style is going to require a lot of wood. In fact, the more wood you include, the better. Your mission dining table, sofa, and other large pieces can be made of a natural-looking wood, such as knotty pine. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to spend a fortune; many of these items can be found used at flea markets or online.
Another great complement to this look is end tables. Once you arrange the tables, casually drape lace doilies or checked-pattern cloths over them. Place jar candles on the table to give the look a country appeal. Choose scents like cinnamon, vanilla, or apple pie.
Decorate the Walls for Added Interest and Depth
Bare walls can lead to a cold room atmosphere, given that they tend to look very stark and blank. Warm up those walls by hanging some rural or black-and-white prints framed in wood. Or create a great focal point for the room by hanging a country-style quilt alone on a large wall.
Don’t Forget the Kitchen!
If you have the space in your kitchen, a natural or knotty pine wood table is a great country addition. A checkered or lace cloth atop the table continues the country feel. If you just don’t have the space for a table, instead use antique-looking bar stools at the counter. You can also enhance the country atmosphere with wildflower arrangements, wooden bowls and spoons, and even some country candles. A wooden spice rack on the countertop or a wicker centerpiece on the table make nice country touches as well.
Add Accessories and Accents You Love
One of the keys to a country-style décor is using plenty of natural, exposed, or antique-looking wood, as well as simply patterned cloths for the tables. When choosing accessories and accents, go with items you truly love, as this will help add a little of your unique personality into the mix. Other wonderful country touches include natural flowers, country-style candles, bookcases filled with old or leather-bound books, quilts, and wicker.
Apartments have a tendency to look and feel just like all the others and not particularly inviting. By warming up your living space, you can make it your own. By creating a style you love, you will welcome coming home after a hard day’s work. Country décor infuses comfort, coziness, and a truly welcoming feeling into your home. In this way, you can transform your apartment into a place you will love calling home.
Filed under Remodeling by on Jun 28th, 2010. Comment.
What is the main thing most women want in a kitchen remodel? Not surprisingly, ninety-nine out of a hundred would probably say, “More storage!†It may not be the right time for you to undertake a complete remodel, but there are many easy options for adding storage to you kitchen.
Perhaps the solution to your storage-space problem is as simple as a good cleaning out of your cabinets. Get rid of all that stuff you don’t use anymore! Then you’ll be able to free up all kinds of space. Whether you choose to weed out those cabinets or not, following are a few other places where you may be able to create more storage options.
Look to the Ceiling
Pots and pans take up an unbelievable amount of space in the kitchen. Why not get them out of the cabinet and hang them up? Try this simple, inexpensive idea for hanging cookware:
Find an old or new window and attach “U†bolts or eyebolts to all four corners. Hang the window from secure ceiling joists, using eyebolts, “S†hooks and chains. Next attach plain or fancy towel bars to the edges of the window. Now you can use “S†hooks to hang pots, herbs or utensils from the bars.
The window makes a marvelous display shelf for collectibles or plants. This space can be easily transformed by adding decorative touches such as hanging wire baskets, bundled herbs to dry or other colorful displays. Try tying colorful colanders together to create a bright storage space for fruits and vegetables. A friend of mine actually stores here table goods here for convenience: her napkins, forks, knives, spoons and rolled-up hand towels (which she uses as placemats).
Take Advantage of Available Wall Space
Nail a piece of lattice or a pre-made trellis to the kitchen wall to create a unique space to hang utensils, pots and pans, dish towels or oven mitts. There are so many options—you get the idea!
Why not add shelves to your walls? This is a simple and inexpensive storage solution for any room. Finally, you can bring out and display all those showpieces—your favorite teapots, pitchers and platters—that have been taking up valuable cabinet space. So go through those cupboards and pull out any pieces that will add interest and color to the room.
Rework Your Cabinets
Do your large base cabinets seem to do nothing but collect clutter? Then this is a simple solution for you. After all, base cabinets tend to be nothing more than big boxes. Some of these cabinets, in fact, are a whopping two-feet deep! It’s no wonder, then, that we constantly find ourselves on our hands and knees, searching for something way in the back. Although these tips are meant to assist you with base cabinet woes, they also can be easily applied to the smallest of cabinets.
Avo Barsoumian has been part of the interior decorating and flooring community for the past 25 years. He owns and operates a carpeting company in Los Angeles. The carry the best in elegant hardwood flooring, beautiful laminate flooring and plush carpeting. Searching for that perfect laminate floor installation cost for your new condo or tan carpets to redecorate your older home? Then give Carpet Wagon a call.
Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by on Jun 26th, 2010. Comment.
Now is the time to get a jump on redecorating your house. Out with the old, and in with the new. Whether spring cleaning or any other season, it is time to move forward with great looks for every room! No matter what kind of house you have, making a change in your furnishings will make you see it in a brand new light.
You can get a degree in interior design, but it is not necessary if yo just want to find good ideas for your own house.
Each room in your house can be improved with just a little effort. In your kitchen, for example, a small item, like a sanyo rice cooker, can have just as much impact as a large appliance. Kitchens can be expensive, however, so make sure that your plans match your budget. When changing your cooking area, consider things like different counter types, and what kind of shelving and cabinets you might want.
After making a wonderful meal, you will need the right setting in which to enjoy it. A new dining room table set can improve the atmosphere for every engagement, whether a intimate meal for two or a buffet style gathering. For those with large homes, your dining area should be able to host intimate affairs and large parties. As your family and guests sit down to dinner, your new designs make each moment memorable.
When the meal and entertainment are done, a good host will direct his guests to nicely appointed rooms where they can retire. If you invest wisely in mattresses you will reap a great reward in terms of comfort. You will sleep well and your guests will thank you. Also consider how you place your furniture in the room. It is best when beds have free access on the sides and at the foot. This allows easy entry to and exit from the bed so as not to disturb other sleepers.
For others in the house, you have to make sure that their accommodations are equally fitting. Do you have small children who might appreciate bunk beds or a sleep space shaped like a race car? Do you have teens that need room to sleep in and to do their homework? Loft beds with desk attachments can help you increase the multitasking capabilities of your space.
All in all, making your house look different is just a fun thing to do. Even if you just look through a catalog, it is fun to use your imagination about the things you would do. Maybe someday you can realize those ideas with a quick trip to a nearby furniture store.
Filed under Remodeling by on May 21st, 2010. Comment.
If you’re looking for lighting for your kitchen, you may have more options than you think, depending, of course, on your kitchen’s style and layout. Although there are lots of options when it comes to kitchen lighting, not every kind of lighting will fit every type of kitchen. Here’s a list of options to consider when choosing your kitchen lighting.
Under-the-Cabinet Lighting Can Enhance the Look
Under-the-cabinet lighting in a kitchen can definitely enhance the look of the décor. You just need to figure out which type of light will best fit your layout, especially that of your cabinets. After all, there may be areas in the room that you don’t want lit. You need to consider all these details before diving into the project. The three different options for under-the-cabinet lighting include incandescent lamps, fluorescent lamps, and LED lights. You can determine which will work best for you and your kitchen by doing your research on each type of lamp.
Decorative Lighting Can Add Style
If first and foremost you want your new lighting to fit the style of the room, then you should look at decorative lighting. Decorative lighting can either be flush with the ceiling or it can hang from there. Chandeliers and pendant lights are just two examples of decorative lighting options. These types of lighting fixtures not only look attractive but also will provide plenty of light for the room. To make the light look even more appealing, choose a fixture that matches the style or theme of the rest of your kitchen.
Track Lighting Is Great in the Kitchen
If you have visited any new homes of late or seen pictures in recent design magazines, you may have seen track lighting in the kitchen. Track lighting has recently become quite a popular option in the kitchen. Track lighting allows you to direct the light wherever in the kitchen you need it most—for instance, by the stove or near the countertops. In recent years, track lighting has also become way more attractive, as it now comes in many different styles and designs. You also have more options than the traditional simple straight line. If you want to get creative, you can also get a track that’s curved or that follows an “S” shape.
Recessed Lighting Is Common in Kitchens
Recessed lighting is another popular kitchen light option. These are lights that are actually installed right into the ceiling. You can point most recessed lights to whichever spot you want in the kitchen, which makes them similar to track lighting. The clean and streamlined look offered by recessed lighting makes it a great choice for contemporary and modern kitchens. However, it’s a wise decision to hire an electrician to install the lighting in the ceiling so that you know it’s been done safely and properly.
There are so many different lighting options that are available for kitchens these days. With a little research, you should be able to find a type of light that goes with the décor in the kitchen and emphasizes the beauty of the space.
About the Writer
Leon Tuberman has been part of the home furnishings and interior decorating business for 40 years. He is the owner and manager of popular furniture store in California. They carry a large selection of USA made solid oak mission furniture for your living room, dining room and bedroom. Are you looking for a oak dining room table or a china for your dining room then they probably have everything you need.
Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by on Apr 28th, 2010. Comment.
If you’re like most families, you probably spend quite a bit of time in the kitchen. So why not make it more interesting by adding some color to the room? Maybe you don’t want a drab and dreary kitchen, but you don’t know quite how to add the right touch. Consider some of these easy ways in which you can add color to your kitchen, making it go from boring to beautiful.
Add Color by Dressing Up Your Table
One of the easiest ways to create a colorful kitchen is to dress up the kitchen table. Some colorful dishware can really spruce things up, as well as a colorful tablecloth or placemat set. Another way to achieve instantaneous color is by adding a centerpiece, such as flowers in a vase or basket on your oak dining room table. You want to try to find colors that complement your kitchen décor but add interest at the same time.
Add Color with a Backsplash
Your kitchen backsplash doesn’t have to be boring. You can always keep things simple with a neutral-colored tile or laminate, but you also have to option of venturing out a little and making things colorful. You have plenty of options, as tiles and laminates come in plenty of different colors that can be used for a backsplash. Another unique approach is to arrange broken-up colored glass in a random pattern on the wall. Whichever way you decide to go, not only will you add some color to the décor, but you’ll end up with a personalized, one-of-a-kind backsplash.
Paint an Accent Wall a Different Color
Is your kitchen painted a neutral color? Paint an accent wall a different color to add some more color to the room. Choose the wall that’s the least covered with cabinets or appliances. Be sure to pick an accent color that will work well with the rest of your kitchen’s décor. For a more subtle look, go with a matching color. But if you want the wall to really stand out, pick a color that’s complementary.
Take the Doors Off the Cabinets
When you take the doors off your kitchen cabinets, then you can showcase your colorful dishes and other tableware. If you have neutral dishes, add some pop by painting the insides of the cabinets a contrasting color. You don’t need to remove every cabinet door in your kitchen, but instead choose anywhere from one to four prominent cabinets and make them your “color cabinets.â€
Use Window Treatments to Add Interest
Chances are, your kitchen has at least one window. Why not utilize that window area to add color? Whether you go with a valance or drapes, choose a window treatment in a color that will stand out. Red or purple window treatments would be a great way to add color to the room if you have, for example, a black-and-white or otherwise neutral kitchen.
You don’t need to redecorate the entire room in order to add color to your kitchen. Use what you already have and build some color into it, adding your own touches here and there around the room.
About the Author…
Leon Tuberman has four decades of experience in the furniture and interior decorating industry. He owns and manages his family owned furniture store. They carry a large selection of Amish made solid oak furniture for your living room, bedroom and dining furniture. It doesn’t matter whether you’re shopping for a dining set for your formal dining room or a sofa for your living room then they carry everything you need.
Filed under Kitchen Remodeling by on Apr 12th, 2010. Comment.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of owning a home is decorating. Your creative flair for color and wallpaper makes the room personalized. The more you can customize your home the more it feels like a home. And with the cost of hiring a decorator being very high, more people are doing it themselves.
There are many home decor accents that will help accomplish the look and feel that you want. Adding a rail around a room or painting just one wall, can make the appearance quite different. Many find that the use of plants and trees will add warmth and fullness to a home. The way that you use your accessories can help you be more creative. People who have collections of books, stuffed animals or collectibles can use their imagination to create a different look and feel in a room.
The decor in a child’s room will help shape their personality. The traditional colors of pink for girls and blue for boys is no longer the norm. It is all about creating a sense of comfort and well-being. The furniture that is chosen should do the same. There are many options in cribs. A convertible crib natural pad will add comfort for your sleeping child. In the past, once a family decided on no more children, they usually sold their cribs. Now, with a convertible crib, as the child grows, so does the bed! It can be converted to a full-sized bed and many offer the option for it to become a day bed and everything in between.
Your master bedroom will be a safe haven for you and your partner, or if single, a potential game room. How you create the correct ambiance is very important. With the use of color combinations, wallpaper, lighting and the proper bedding collection, your creation can have all that you desire.
When you approach the idea of becoming your own decorator, take time to prepare. You may save a lot of money and create the best look for your home. Just remember that it is not likely that you will have too many opportunities to do a complete makeover. Be creative, but be smart. Use your talents and skills to customize any rooms or the entire house. Just be careful how over-the-top you wish to be.
If your home currently has neutral colors, this gives openings for a multitude of options. By offsetting one wall with paper or paint, it can turn a calm room into a rampage of color. So, think about what you wish to accomplish and get a variety of swatches and paper samples for each task.
Have fun with this. Take many different swatches of color and wallpaper to determine how you can create the exact feeling you wish to accomplish. Once this is done, use accents to finish up your personalized home and as Paula Abdul would say, just make it your own!!
Filed under Remodeling by on Apr 10th, 2010. Comment.
In most homes, the basement is an area that is not often ventured into. Some are cluttered, others dark and damp, and the rest are usually only used for storage of the things that they do not really want anymore, but do not want to throw away. At its best, a basement is used as a laundry room, but it not necessarily somewhere fun for the person stuck with laundry duty. You do not have to be an expert on interior design to revamp your basement.
Firstly, if you are only ever going to be using your basement as a laundry room, there are ways to make it a more enjoyable place to be. You can add a nice workspace, for you to sort through the laundry with. A table of the right height for you to fold clothes will help a lot, as will a nice set of drawers, perhaps wicker, to put the cleaning detergents in. A comfortable chair will always come in handy in this area, if you are going to be waiting for something to finish washing, without wanting to go upstairs again.
But regardless of using this space as a laundry room, there are better ways to utilize the basement area. The basement can be an excellent entertainment area just waiting to happen! Because it is naturally dark, it is fantastic for a movie area. The walls can be painted dark, to create the right lighting, and you can paint just one wall white. Then, if it is affordable for you, you can buy an overhead projector and watch movies as if you are at the cinema. Throw in some comfortable seating and you will have the ultimate in house media and entertainment experience.
Another option for your basement, if you are a musical family, is to use it as a music room. Basements can be perfect for this, as they are easily soundproofed. This way you can have a place for someone to practice their favorite instrument without disturbing the neighbors or other occupants of the house! Photographers will also love basements, as it can provide the best place for developing photos, as it is so naturally dark!
Some people turn their basements into their very own home gyms! Erecting a mirrored wall or walls can create the illusion of more space, opening the room up. Some simple equipment and a comfortable mat to practice other exercises on can complete your home gym. A radio player will give you company for your workout, and, if you live in a warmer climate, an air conditioner installed will be imperative. The basement is a great place for a gym, as most equipment is not terribly attractive, and is better kept out of sight of visitors.
Lastly, you can create a nice escape from the outside world in your basement, and you can even turn it into an office or second entertainment room or lounge. It just needs to be given adequate lighting; some comfortable chairs and a desk or table and you are good to go! Pay attention to decorating the room as lovingly as you would the rest of your house. There are some good interior design websites to help you with your quest. It is important that you create a beautiful space, so that you feel at home relaxing down there.
Remember that some basements are prone to damp, so it is always best, before decorating, to ensure that the room is properly sealed off and protected against damp. A dehumidifier is also an important part of your revamping scheme.
Filed under Remodeling by on Mar 25th, 2010. Comment.