Friday, September 30th, 2016
Rustic interiors offer an eclectic look that zeroes in on nature. Furniture normally consists of stone, wood and reclaimed lumber, however, sisal, rattan, bamboo, paper, wool, glass and clay, even different kinds of metal can also be used to achieve the look. DIY projects, heirlooms, collections, folk arts and vintage-looking pieces will also fit in.
Metal-worked furniture pieces are also great options to use on a rustic concept this fall.
Wooden columns and beams, stone flooring and hardwood pieces are elements that you would want to add in your home. If these are not natural parts of your current home, then know that there are now faux columns and beams that can help you achieve the look.
Rustic Basics
Rustic interiors for this season will help you have a warm and welcoming vibe. Rustic is historic, rough-hewn and an Old World charm that appeals even to people who live on an era of manufactured pieces and technology.
Rustic is not tantamount to being not innovative, though. As your persist with your rustic style, you get to achieve a one-of-a-kind look that are either repurposed or set up in that way.
Weathered Woods Are Rustic
Say no to imitation lumber or machine-polished wooden pieces here. Rustic woods have to be rough around the edges and they’d have to be real lumber. Look for sturdy pieces like hickory, oak, or beech. Leave them to develop natural patina. You can also use matte paint to make them look more pastoral. Scuff and sand the edges, choose a stool or chair with bark-like backs and you’re on the right track.
Distressed Pieces Are Rustic
Think of denim blue, forest green, blood red, and khaki – these are all hues that look appropriate during the pioneer days. This does not mean that you can simply shun a lighter palette. Remember that a traditional pattern such as plaid, calico or patchwork would work best.
Another way to convey rustic beauty is to make a handmade quilt. Just throw this over a sectional or a bed; you can also hang this on the wall. Needlepoint pillows and embroidered pieces also embody rustic textile tradition.
Always go for warm, heavy metals preferably those that have been worn out. Look for pieces with a hammered finish or even a hint of rust. Say yes to pewter, bronze, copper, or iron for your bedstead, kitchen racks, lighting fixtures, side tables, and outdoor pieces. Veer away from finishes such as stainless steel and chrome.
Go Modern Rustic
This may be like conflicting terms but as a theme, this has been creating a buzz. Homeowners now love the rustic charm and beauty that come with modern amenities.
It’s impossible not to love this style especially if you are a sucker for character. The key to creating a modern rustic environment, though, is when you can embrace an open space layout, modern pieces, and large, industrial structures.
Don’t forget bringing in nature indoors, though, since the most important feature of any modern rustic dwelling is stone and raw wood. This is easy if you already live in an old home. All you have to do then is to preserve the original architectural features, show off the stone walls, and expose the beams, or light the fireplace.
Modern rustic is also about making good use of the fifth wall which is the ceiling. Homes that come with A-frames are very popular. If you don’t have cathedral ceilings, don’t worry, you can still have the look of exposed beams. Ask professional architects to help you install faux beams.
Beyond the architectural details and furnishings, rustic modern homes should also carry over the theme to linens, upholstery and rugs. The simplest accessories can make a huge difference so be sure to shop for the right fall items.
Tags: designing with wood, distressed furniture, fall, fall color palette, fall color scheme, fall colors, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, rustic, rustic charm, rustic design, rustic elements, rustic home, rustic interiors, rustic look, rustic theme, wood, wood elements, wooden elements, wooden furniture
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Friday, September 30th, 2016
If you have started kitchen renovation or remodeling, then you know how overwhelming it can be. There are kitchen fixtures to worry about, pros and cons to consider, flooring to install, and a color scheme to decide on. Today, you are going to consider one material that will make your decision-making a whole lot easier – terracotta.
The wonderful world of tiles shows a wide array of patterns, colors, finishes, styles and textures. The material that you pick for your floor tile often determines the aesthetics. Consider terracotta to fulfill not just the aesthetics part of the project but also the durability, budget and style issues.
Stone and wood flooring are popular choices but terracotta is another timeless classic that you could look into. You can even achieve the look of a Spanish Revival home by simply using these tiles.
Terracotta and Its Distinctive Features
Terracotta literally means baked earth. It is hard because it is fired, unglazed clay. What makes it standout is its reddish-brown hue which is why it is linked to styles such Southwest, rustic, Old World and Mediterranean.
Terracotta tiles have long been around. For hundreds of years, this material has provided a uniqueness that is difficult to equal. It is a homeowner favorite because it can be used in both traditional and contemporary settings.
Terracotta is made of natural materials that are quite durable. It comes in a variety of finishes from zero to high gloss. Terracotta also offers an earthy and warm feel which makes it suitable both indoors and outdoors. It is a material that’s resistant to bacteria and mold.
Terracotta is porous, it absorbs moisture quite quickly. This is also why it is susceptible to alcohol, citric acid, vinegar, and oils. Terracotta tiles must be sealed each year so that stains, cracking and discoloration can be prevented.
Installing terracotta tiles can be a bit more difficult compared to other flooring materials. It is highly recommended that professionals would do the job.
Terracotta Maintenance
Clean terracotta tiles with a mild dishwashing liquid, tepid water, and soft cloth. Use this for spills and stains. You can also use a damp mop, just make sure that you dry the spot immediately.
Grout is also prone to staining so you need to scrub it off as soon as possible.
Terracotta in the Bedroom
If kitchens and central courtyards have an endearing look because of terracotta tiles, then the bedroom can have the same charming look.
Terracotta tiles in the bedroom means having a relaxing and comfy sanctuary. There are reddish hues to look into and finishes to consider. Your bedroom style is never an issue with this material since it can work in just about any setting where you install it.
Terracotta in the Living Room
Finding the right terracotta tiles for your living room may not be easy – back in the day. In the last years, homeowners have been looking for a unique material to use inside their living rooms and terracotta just couldn’t be passed up.
Terracotta isn’t for everyone, though. This is just the material to use if you want to stray from the obvious styles. Use it to blend rustic and contemporary, timelessness and classic beauty.
Mediterranean and Versatile
Your home can make good use of terracotta tiles if you want the Mediterranean, farmhouse, eclectic or rustic look. Many homeowners who have used them in the past can vouch for this material’s durability, beauty and overall quality.
Just make sure that you buy your terracotta tiles from a reputable seller. Be ready for annual care, too, in terms of yearly sealing. This is pretty small to ask for something so beautiful. These tiles are also less taxing on everyone’s feet because of its porous nature.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, Mediterranean interior design, Mediterranean interiors, Mediterranean style, rustic, rustic charm, rustic elements, rustic look, rustic style, terracotta, terracotta design, terracotta floor, terracotta flooring, terracotta material, terracotta tiles
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Wednesday, September 28th, 2016
Old interior designs make a comeback every few years. If you’ve noticed, retro design is now making a comeback but with a contemporary twist. Retro modern is a mixture of eclectic styles, making use of different finishes and materials.
Retro modern is an interesting twist with bold colors. These days, the bright colors from days past come back in subdued tones, thus, forming a unique new style. This is the modern take on the flamboyant look of the 60s, 70s, 80s till the 90s.
Retro modern can help you show your individuality through the fusion of different styles of eras that have gone. This is your interpretation of the past, though. Different old styles, shapes, materials, colors, technology and artifacts continue to resurface to be used and displayed once more.
Features of Retro Modern
Some of the visual clues that you are looking at a retro modern home is when the existing design has been revisualized and eventually revised. You would also notice a brimming mixture of eclectic elements, some classic while some bright and modern.
Retro, of course, still means a style that will never be outdated. The general rule in using it is to find items that are actually or visually 15 to 20 years of age (at the very least). The strongest features of retro modern are the careful color mixtures, even the variety in patterns and textures. At times, new furniture is framed by a vintage background.
The retro modern theme requires an environment that is sustainable. It pays, therefore, to practice the reduce, reuse and recycle concept. You can use the heirloom pieces that were handed down to you by your great grandparents or in their absence, you can check out these vintage-looking pieces from our collection –
You also need to modify your surroundings. Modify with wallpapers and lots of colors such as mustards, blues and eclectic pink. Retro modern also means updating the average interior design by adding aged pieces. Go ahead and create a timeless and unique look.
Any room will be instantly transformed to a retro modern setting where carefully chosen patterns and bold colors are used. The larger the patterns on those wallpapers, the more accurate your design would be. Say yes to murals and furniture with bold fabrics. Be sure to limit the colors to just a few bold ones, though, since you could easily end up with a cluttered, chaotic look.
Repetitive and smaller patterns with muted or neutral tones are also welcome in a retro modern home so long as you want the subtle approach. Bold colors may be used with pastel colors for a more sophisticated appeal.
If bold, geometric and colorful isn’t your style, then you can still go retro by using subtle hints. Smaller prints and patterns would do. Use the muted versions of the bolder colors. Infuse colors in smaller quantities if you are still uncertain about going bold.
Retro modern may also use curved edges and circular forms. These are actually classic shapes in retro interior design. Mix these with contemporary furniture to create a different kind of harmony. You may also combine minimalism with some retro elements. Achieve this by fusing curved lines with simple lines.
Pair modern leather, lacquer-finished pieces, and wood with retro pieces. Say goodbye to outdated fabrics and embrace a funky-colored one. Shop for sleeker pieces if you are leaning towards minimalism.
Use focal points, too, such as a vintage barometer on your accent wall, or a shelf full of colorful knickknacks. Retro modern can also be your personal design statement. Take a few ideas from these tips then try to retell the design in your own taste.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, modern, modernism, retro, Retro design, retro interior design, retro interiors, Retro style, tips, vintage, vintage design, vintage furniture, vintage interior design, vintage interiors
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Tuesday, September 27th, 2016
Buying home in today’s market entails a lot of hard work. After being stressed in financing and closing the deal, the next big project is for you to move in. One of the greatest joys of home ownership is your right to finally personalize the space and let it suit your preferences. Here are some strategies that could help you customize your home –
Customize with Paint
Painting your home with the colors that you want is a cost-effective way of personalizing your space. Studies even show that your color choices can have a massive impact on your mood, even the general well-being of the residents.
You can paint the exterior parts to create or update the look of your home. You can paint your home the way you have always imagined your dream home would look like. You can paint for the sole reason of improving curb appeal.
You can also paint the front door, the fence and shutters with colors that match the rest of the neighborhood or a palette that defines the unique you. A red door is considered to be most welcoming. Adding an engraved knocker will also up the personalized look on that door; while greens and aquas, even brick reds and blacks are great for a unique fence.
As for the shutters, you can go ahead and paint them with a palette that beautifully contrasts the rest of the colors already used. This tweak should give your home a buttoned up look.
Individual family members can also have their pick at the colors that they would want to add in the different rooms. The kids’ room could be personalized with cartoon character or farm animal murals. The master bedroom, on the other hand, could be wallpapered or painted with a color that spells sanctuary.
If you want to make a statement by using color, then what better way is there than to add an accent wall? An accent wall – that single wall that has a different color from the rest of the walls – is also an easy yet effective way of personalizing your space.
Match or Not
There is no hard and fast rule that says table and chairs should always match. Remember that in customizing your home – you are in control. So take charge and bring in furniture that makes you happy.
You can also switch rooms if you want to dine inside the kitchen or even a small section of the living room. Just add a breakfast nook right by the living room window and you’re done.
The master bedroom could also be the best yoga room or a home for your shoes, bags and other accessories. How about doubling the home office into an arts and craft room? You can then do your office work while your teenage daughter is right in the same room, scrapbooking.
Personalize with a Chart
It would help if you plan the execution of your design goals. You can divide the spaces in your home, even the seemingly useless spaces, then see what functions they could serve. Even that nook under the stairs can have a function.
After listing these areas, decide what you are going to do with each. It would also help if you assign the storage spaces from the onset. Plan where you will set up the cabinets, shelves and drawers. See also if you can have a storage space set up in your window seats. The spinners, shelves and drawers in the kitchen must also be optimized.
This kind of planning should empower you to make sure that every activity is met and that every family member’s needs are considered.
Tags: customization, customized home, customizing home style, customizing interior design, design customization, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, unique interior design
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Monday, September 26th, 2016
There are people born with a natural eye for design or art. Others just have to learn the skill and, eventually, they end up applying it successfully anyway. The third group is the rest of the world where no one knows what to do with design elements. If you belong to this third group, then know that there are a few basic techniques that can help you. These design principles are pretty simple that anyone can easily apply them –
The Odd Number Rule
This is also known as the Rule of Thirds when pertaining to photography. Odd number design creates harmony as well as visual interest. This means that objects that are grouped or arranged in odd numbers tend to appear more appealing, worth remembering, and even viewed more effective than the even number pairings.
Variety Is Key
It also helps that objects are grouped according to their shapes, textures or architectural heights. Though they are dissimilar in some ways, you must make sure that there is still something that would anchor them.
An example of this is when you use three vases with the same materials but different heights. The material could be glass or wicker but the subtle differences could be the texture or patterns.
This is not a complex rule and it is possible that it might not work every time. If this kind of grouping does not work for you, then always go with your gut. Everything shouldn’t be uniform all the time.
Establish a Focal Point
A focal point is any room feature that has been emphasized. This is that part of your home where the eyes are drawn to each time that you walk in the room. The elements all around the focal point must compliment it.
If you’re a little lost with what to decorate a room, then establishing a focal point is a great start. There are rooms that come with built-in focal points. This could be that large window or the beautiful fireplace in the living room.
If the room does not come with a built-in focal point, you could actually create one. Here are some tips –
As soon as you define the focal point, use this piece’s main color throughout all the other elements in the room. For instance, the focal point could be a white fireplace so this means you could paint the walls black or red. Adding vases of orchids in the room could also compliment the focal point.
You can also frame a fireplace by using windows and seating furniture. If the focal point is a huge window with a great view, then you can arrange the furniture pieces all around it. A large mirror or artwork could be framed by putting two smaller design elements on its opposite sides.
Learn Fundamental Measurement Rules
You have to measure when you’re out to arrange furniture or hang curtains. Hanging art means you have to do it at eye level; too high and no one would appreciate it, hang it too low and it would appear awkward. A coffee table should be 18 inches away from the sofa, no more no less. The television size decides how far it is from the sofa. Just multiply the diagonal size of the television by two. The product is the number of inches that the TV should be away from the sofa.
Tags: design elements, design tips, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings
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Monday, September 26th, 2016
Fall has finally arrived. This is that season when families gather and homes are filled with the aroma of home cooked meals. This is also that time when wood smoke, the tang of fresh apples, and the cool air all come together to bring that wonderful, unexplainable feeling; this season is a reassurance that Christmas is just around the corner.
Fall spells a lot of activities that you could attend with your family. You can go barn dancing, mountain biking with your friends (while enjoying the red, yellow and orange leaves all around), scenic drives through the woods, etc.
The greatest part of this season is the chance for the entire family to decorate the home. Even subtle decorative pieces can make a dull home look suddenly stunning. The right elements could also bring in a sophisticated ambience so make sure that you take advantage of the rich resources that you can find outside – the produce from the farmers’ market, flower shops, even your own backyard.
A Burst of Colors
Fall is all about colors and flowers so bring in those chrysanthemums, marigolds and dahlias. Whether you arrange these beautiful flowers outdoors or in vases indoors, your efforts will surely be rewarded. These flowers don’t just bring elegance into your home but texture as well.
Any arrangement made possible by Mother Nature is the perfect element that you can bring in. Nature, during this season, offers colorful pumpkins and gourds. The former aren’t just great for pie but also as the perfect Jack o’ Lanterns for Halloween. It’s impossible not to love the delicious orange hue these plump pumpkins.
Mix and Match
It’s the time to mix and match different types and sizes, even various colors of wheat stalks and flowers. This is the ideal décor during the entire season. Bring it a step farther by adding pine cones, trees, acorns, citrus fruits and some sprigs. Wreaths should be placed on walls (yes, they can stay there till Christmas) to add visual texture and warmth.
Other things that you can match are colors in various textures. Warm and cozy colors are in such as burnt orange, rust, browns, mustard, plums and grays. Try combining some of these colors to achieve a warm glow that is unique to this season.
Wool and wood are the right materials to harmonize especially during the coldest fall nights. The solid, smooth texture of wool’s fibers plus the sturdiness of wood create just the right combination. Go ahead and update your furnishings by matching wool cushions to your wooden furniture. Use this fusion if you want to be stylish yet safe this season.
Another way to add visual interest in your home is to use accents in interesting motifs. Examples are leaves, woodland creatures and trees. Geometric patterns are at home in this setting, too, and so is tartan.
Lanterns Aglow
Lanterns can offer an enchanting glow during the coldest evenings. They can cast beautiful and inviting light by the porch or right inside your home. Remember that the daylight hours are a lot shorter so you have more time to enjoy the glow of your chosen lanterns.
Adding metals is also another way to add some glow this season. Let copper dominate as this is a must-have metal during fall and winter. Add its reflecting qualities in your home for an instant appeal and visual expansion.
Fall season is definitely upon us all. The leaves are out to change and the days are bound to be shorter. Prepare for chillier mornings while the crisp summer sun slowly fades. You may miss the summer daytime but this season brings with it a different festive mood that’s difficult to ignore so you might as well enjoy it!
Tags: fall, fall color palette, fall decor, fall design, fall interior design, fall interior design elements, fall interiors, fall preparation, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, nature, nature-inspired design, nature-inspired home, nature's colors, styling for fall, tips, using nature's colors in interior design, warm colors, warm hues
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