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Credenza Shopping 101

Tuesday, January 31st, 2017

Hooker Furniture Living Room Melange Neils Four-Door Credenza

One piece of furniture that’s distinguishable by its long, flat top and storage space is the credenza. This lovely piece is a popular choice among homeowners, designers and decorators. Actually, the modern definition of the term credenza can even extend to sideboards which make credenza purchase a tad more difficult.

This buying guide should help you learn about credenza in general and its rich history. It also lists the types of credenzas and the materials that are often used in making them. As you finish reading this guide, you should be able to confidently shop for a new piece for your home.

What’s a Credenza? 

This word came from the Italian word which means belief. This became popular in the 16th century which referred to the act of servants that tasted food and drinks for their masters. This is so they could check for poison prior to serving the food and beverage to their employers or Cardinals (and other men of church).

This act often transpired in the dining room atop a table that’s used to serve as well as store the food, hence, the name stuck. This piece of furniture is a piece of furniture where you can both store and serve food nowadays.

Buyers who are shopping for a credenza often use this as a dining room piece. Savvy decorators, on the other hand, have extended its use to the living room and other parts of the house. Even home offices and patios have had a good use of credenzas.

Credenza Types 

Buffet or Sideboard. This is the traditional credenza type. Majority of antique credenzas were used as a sideboard or a buffet side table. These were also referred to as serving credenzas and were used to serve platters and dishes.

Office Credenza. This is often referred to as the desk credenza or the knee space credenza. Unlike the types used in the dining room, this credenza comes with space in the middle right where the user could sit comfortably (thus the term knee space).

There are also credenza forms that can be used together with desks. Once added to a regular desk, the office credenza can be used to create an L or U shape. This can then offer more work and storage space.

Bookcase or Entertainment unit. This is not a very popular style for a credenza though it’s a useful one. These can also be converted into sideboards, as dedicated units or hutch additions.

This kind of credenza is often found inside the library, living room or the home office.

Display case. This is an offshoot of the credenza desk and an entertainment unit. This can be added to a desk or as a traditional unit with glass doors. Display case credenzas can be used to store figurines, books and other collectibles.

Credenza Materials 

The most common kind of materials used in manufacturing credenzas these days includes wood, metal and glass.

Credenza Shopping 

Once you’re ready to buy a credenza, you must evaluate the units that you have considered online. For the finest credenza selection, read this.

The credenza’s length must be roughly proportional to the room’s size. A big room requires a bigger and longer credenza. A smaller room would require a smaller piece.

If the other pieces of living room furniture are all low-slung, then be sure to shop for a credenza that follows suit. If you’re thinking of putting the credenza in the dining room, then a taller model is often best.

Don’t forget about the overall appearance, though. Check also the configuration of the drawers and doors.

This piece of furniture has a rich history that dates all the way back to the 16th century in Italy and Turkey. This is a great piece for the home office, living room and the dining room so choose it correctly.

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Ottoman Uses and Shopping Guide

Tuesday, January 31st, 2017

NORTHAM COCKTAIL OTTOMAN 1573-920

The ottoman got its name from its unique European origins. The hassocks and low seat were initially imported from Turkey in the 1700s, a time when the area was very much a part of the Ottoman Empire. Pretty soon, European salons caught on and employed the use of these wonderful seats.

The term ottoman covers a wide array of styles; the most common being a padded bench or a footstool. This can used either as a chair or a makeshift coffee table. Nowadays, you can choose from a variety of ottoman shapes, styles and sizes.

More Hassock History

To truly appreciate ottomans, you have to understand about its functions and its beginnings. During the 18th century in Turkey, an ottoman was just a low platform that was covered with cushion. It was a common residential seat.

Larger ottomans were built the way that sectionals are built nowadays. They were used to wrap around the bare walls. Eventually, the style was adapted to a round, padded seat that surrounded poles or columns in public rooms.

The European ottomans were used ot fit into the drawing rooms as well as salons. They were octagonal or circular in shape. There were even some that featured a hinged platform so that they doubled as storage units. This idea has been translated into modern use.

Footstools and ottomans became interchangeable, both being a low, upholstered stool complete with legs and set right next to a hearth. The bigger versions of upholstered and legged ottomans and the small pouf-style ottoman, those that come with built-in storage and the padded hassocks now share the same name these days.

Ottoman as an Extra Seat

The ottoman does not require a lot of space yet it can be a real lifesaver once you welcome more guests. Just imagine a scenario when even a sectional won’t be able to sit everyone then you know how functional the ottoman could get.

A gold velvet ottoman could be a lovely bench as it can also be relocated into different parts of your home. If you need it in the living room, then that’s where it should go. If you want extra seat in the bedroom, then have it transferred there. If you’re welcoming guests in the den then just pull the ottoman there and you’re good to go.

Hickory White Living Room Ottoman 153X

Ottoman as a Versatile Table

When your ottoman stops being a seat, then it can also be used as a table. This can double as a coffee table. A big, tufted ottoman can hold an enameled tray with saucers, cups, croissants, and a coffeepot to welcome guests in your patio.

A linen ottoman in gray and ebony legs could also be the sturdy counter for your platter of grapes, cheese, wineglasses and a champagne bottle. It could also be used as a station for sandwich eaters in your den.

Cylindrical or cube ottomans can be used as end tables in your living room or as nightstands in the bedroom.

Ottoman as a Storage Unit

One can never have too much storage. Go ahead and use that extra space in your ottoman. A small apartment could make good use of this piece of furniture. An upholstered ottoman could serve as sock storage inside the guest room. It could also be a bench that stores music sheets beside the piano.

Shopping for Ottoman

When choosing an ottoman, you have to know what size the room requires. Have it at least an inch lower than the regular chair or sofa. Consider also mobility especially if you would be moving it around. See also if you need it to be chunky or leggy.

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Getting Rid of Interior Design Eyesores

Monday, January 30th, 2017

Stanley Furniture Bedroom Upholstered Storage Bed California King 696-13-50 has drawers where you could store extra clothes and accessories. 

Have you ever thought of perusing your home’s interior design? Was there ever a time that you realized there are just some things that don’t fit into the area? These are the kinds of things that are often small but they still bother the beholder, thus, they’re referred to as an eyesore.

Though quite small, eyesores are the kind of problem that you tend to notice and keep noticing once you’ve already seen it. These are just the kinds of things that could keep annoying you.

In order to get rid of these design eyesores in your home, here are some functional and creative ways that you could hide such. This means you can finally say bye-bye to eyesores with style –

Think of Maximizing Space

Begin with end in mind, they say. Most of the design eyesores that you see in your home are keeping you from having a neat and maximized space. With more and more people piling up in cities, it becomes more important that you learn to maximize every available inch that your home offers.

You can always begin with clever hiding and coming up with uncommon storage solutions. You can even creatively repurpose surfaces such as having a blackboard on your refrigerator.

Other means just asks for the conversion of an unused space into something more beautiful and functional.

Space maximization should be your single motto as you go about with getting rid of interior design eyesores.

Drawers Under the Stairwell

Do you remember Harry Potter’s first room in the series? He did sleep under the stairs. That room could easily be converted into a space that’s also useful (sure, maybe not a bedroom because it’s simply too small).

How about installing drawers there? These drawers could then be used to store books, memorabilia or lots and lots of shoes. They could also be utilized as a toy storage solution.

Router in a Lovely Box

‘Ever seen those lovely boxes that they sell in department stores? It’s time to put them into good use by having the router placed into one of them. No one needs to see that ugly router lying around or hung somewhere, right? Choose the design of the box, make sure that it blends well with your chosen style.

If a box still looks bulky to you, then you can always repurpose a big, old book. Take out the frayed pages and just leave the hardcover. You can sandwich the router there and leave it lying around like a regular book.

ooker Furniture Bedroom Archivist Six-Drawer Chest

Invisible Bookshelves

Books just gotta have a home. Of course, it’s always advisable to get a decent bookshelf or two. In the case when you’ve already installed two or more and you still have more books to store, then it’s time to put your bare walls to good use.

Install plank of wood using an angle bar. Drill the angle bar to the wall then place just the right amount of books on each plank – voila – what you have is an instant, floating and invisible bookshelf.

 

Photo Gallery on Unsightly Switch Plates

Who says you have to bear with ugly switch plates? If you see one that’s simply out of place in your home, then just hang a lovely framed photo to keep it hidden. If you’re feeling inspired, create a photo gallery.

Cable and Cord Solutions

Why default into cable hiding? The longer the cables and wires, the more that you can turn them into wall art. Create the New York City skyline using your cables.

Another solution is to take a cardboard box, cut dual canals on both sides then hide the cables in. This is a lot better than seeing them all tangled under your desk.

Be creative, unleash your artistic side.

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Noise Control In Your Home

Monday, January 30th, 2017

Hooker Furniture Bedroom Rhapsody King Tufted Bed is perfect in a noise control setting.

Noise can easily interfere with one’s sleep and could eventually lead to fatigue, headaches, irritability and stress. Surveys have proven that noise is a concern in many households. This is why it is necessary to find solutions that would reduce and contain the noise so that homeowners can continue to live a healthy life.

The common sources of neighborhood noise are aircraft or road traffic, air conditioners, refrigeration units, TVs, pool pumps and sound systems. Even car and burglar alarms, dogs and other pets, music, and road building can all contribute to the noise.

Options for Noise Reduction

It is important to recognize these noise-inducing factors so that you can determine when others are already creating noise. This will also help you prepare on how to respond should the noise occur.

If the neighborhood noise is a concern for you and your family, then here are some actions that you can take –

  • Pick a quieter neighborhood.
  • Talk to your neighbor or whoever is causing the problem. If talking to the neighbor does not produce any positive result, then you could consider lodging a complaint.
  • Set up some noise barriers or any sound absorbent materials that are still appropriate with your home design.
  • Minimize your own noise. You might not realize it but you could be contributing to the noise around your neighborhood.
  • Carry out raucous activities only during the day.
  • Inform the people in your neighborhood if you’re going to hold a party or any noisy activity.
  • Have your home designed in such away that noise transfer is minimized.
  • Pick furnishings that could also help reduce the noise.

Traffic Noise Reduction

This is the most common kind of neighborhood noise as it affects the highest population proportion. With travel increasing each year, the levels of road traffic also increases. A lot of people now complain about traffic noise and how it’s been disrupting their rest.

If you want to be an example of traffic noise reduction, then you can practice the following –

  • Instead of driving, you can walk or cycle.
  • Buy a car with quieter engine.
  • Drive slowly and be sure to maintain your car.
  • Report vehicles that are getting too noisy.

Consider the Design of Your Home

Take measures with regard to the design of your home. Use a suitable window glaze, be sure to manage air leakage, and design shared floors and walls that would limit noise transfer.

Structure-borne sound, also called impact noise, is the product of building fabric that has been directly or indirectly affected by energy that passes through the building. Examples are banging doors, heavy footsteps, scraping furniture, loud music as well as plumbing noises.

Consider moving away from noise sources. Remember that noise levels vary as the time progresses. Seal gaps so that leaks won’t go through. Here are other tips on how to keep your dwelling place a bit quieter –

  • Situate rooms away from noise sources without having to compromise the design.
  • Have windows installed away from noise sources and choose sound absorbing materials.
  • Put noisy areas away from quiet rooms.
  • Do not put laundries, living rooms and bathrooms right next to any bedroom.
  • Mount noisy appliances on pads that absorb noise.
  • Have extra soundproofing inside teenagers’ rooms.

Have a passive home. This is the kind of home that’s designed to promote airflow which would distribute heat or coolness inside. Provide added insulation for noisy rooms such as the laundry area. Utilize acoustic pads or mounts for washers and dryers.

Lastly, choose furnishings that also offer insulation. Tufted furniture is best as are materials that can buffer the noise (e.g. foam, plastic, etc.).

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Reading a Floor Plan

Friday, January 27th, 2017

Hooker Furniture’s Hill Country Collection

A floor plan – also known simply as the plan – is a common architectural drawing. All sorts of professionals, from architects, builders, appraisers, to realtors use this drawing. This is used probably because it is the one drawing that tells a lot about the house from the kind of house that will be built, to what size it would become.

The floor plan also shows area, circulation pattern, structure, doors and window locations, stair situation and room layouts.

Floor plans also reveal functional characteristics yet they lack the home’s eventual feel. No matter, you have to remember that you are reading on a third dimension but it’s just a single view of the house still.

The Overall Plan

This is a flattened and a two-dimensional representation of the house’s floor level. Every floor is shown as are the other parts of the house such as the windows, doors, walls, stairs, even furniture and plumbing fixtures.

Each of the rooms is labeled so you would have no difficulty in understanding the relationship of each room to the adjacent one. You will also be shown how to get from one room to the next.

The Legend

Each plan has a legend. This should indicate the kind of project that is being done and which floor the plan has been made for. The legend also indicates the scale (e.g. ¼ inch equals a foot, etc.).

The scale could sometimes be written out or at times a graphic scale is provided. The latter is useful as the drawings become smaller or when they are enlarged or otherwise changed.

The legend also often includes a north arrow. Other items that could be included are the owner’s name(s), the address of the project, designers’ and architect’s names.

Interior Elevations and Walls

Walls are an important architectural feature whether they are indoors or outdoors. The thickness is always indicated on the plan. These are drawn as parallel lines with breaks.

The overall floor plan generally scales at ¼ inch is equal to a foot though certain rooms could be drawn at a bigger scale, say, ½ inch to a foot.

Interior elevations

It is always a great idea to have the interior elevations drawn. While cabinetry could be drawn as a part of the plan, their height, style or type is not indicated. Only the interior elevation would provide this information.

Doors and Windows

Are also important elements that are indicated on floor plans. Every window and door is given a size and location. Windows are shown with a straight perpendicular line to the wall. An arc also connects this line to the wall.

The door is also shown in the same manner so you get to realize which way it would open to once it is constructed.

A French or double door is drawn as a double arc and line. These are just two single doors that have been joined together, though. Just like a single door, the door’s swing direction is also indicated.

The Fireplace

This is another architectural feature that can be shown on a floor plan. This is an outer rectangle which indicates the fireplace’s exterior wall. The inner rectangle, on the other hand, indicates the firebox itself. The plan will also tell if the fireplace is going to be centered inside the room or if it will be placed between two windows.

The Stairway                 

Stairs take up a large amount of floor space and they will have an effect on the headroom. It is, therefore, important to show where the stair will be specifically located. They are drawn as a series of lines that are parallel to each other. Staircases also show an arrow as well as a note which indicates the direction of the travel.

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Match the Renovation Project With Your Budget

Friday, January 27th, 2017

Hooker Furniture Dining Room Blanco 46in Foyer Dining Table

Marrying your remodeling dreams with your pocketful of dollars can be a challenge. At least this is the case with most homeowners. But there are a lot of things that you can do in your home if you know how to manage your expenditure. What you need are a few tips that will help you get the hands that you need at the initial budget that you have set.

Today, you will focus on working with professionals that will help you realize your remodeling vision and understand the realistic cost behind it. You will also refine your plans so that your budget for the remodeling project will be commensurate to your visualization. You will, in essence, be acting like your own general contractor though you are expected to hire a team of professionals in the end.

Concocting the Dream Plan

Once you have chosen which experts to hire, it is time to sit down and discuss your renovation plan and budget with them. They are the professionals so expect to hear suggestions.

Make a list of all the things that drive you crazy in your home (excluding your mother-in-law). Show also a collection of home images which inspire you; this way, the pros will have an idea on what to begin with. Also, they will have an idea on what materials as well as styles you prefer.

Are you the eclectic type? Or do you prefer the stark yet elegant look that Scandinavian style offers? This will soon be clearly defined.

Have a measured drawing of your current home often referred to by architects as the as-built. This will come as a useful tool on the duration of the project.

Check the Budget

As the initial dimensions are set, it’s time for the rough order of magnitude. This is the cost comparison when you send the first plans to contractors for a quote. This is not similar to bidding so reasonable ballpark figures would do.

Your final number depends hugely on the kinds of materials and finishes that you choose. Majority of contractors do the price comparison for free though there are some who already charge for a minimal fee so be sure to ask.

Redefine Your Vision

As you receive the cost estimates, your architect will be your best friend since he will help you scale back especially when the ideal budget does not suit the project. He will also suggest alternatives so that you will remain on budget. This is referred to as value engineering.

Even if you have cash to burn, it pays to create features that are only worth their price. Ask yourself this important question – does this really matter?

Reward Due Diligence

As you near the completion of your design plan, ask your contractor to find some trivial things such as rotting walls, which walls are load-bearing, which rooms have water damage, etc.

It is not good to set foot to a project with a handful of unanticipated issues. Remember that a single mistake could cost anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

A few contractors offer pre-construction due diligence as a part of the project. When you contractor does not go through this step prior to work commencement, you could always ask how much he would charge for it.

Minor research on which parts of the home will affect the overall remodeling budget could be as cheap as $200 or a bigger researc could cost as much as $12,000. The latter is for a full set of the architectural plans.

This is an effective step to take prior to signing off on your final plan with the general contractor. Remember that this research is all too important and could definitely affect the scope of the eventual work (as well as the price).

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Fireplace Cozies and How to Make ‘Em

Thursday, January 26th, 2017

Uttermost Dining Room Mara Fireplace Screen Candleholder 20179

A fashionably designed mantel is one of the most crucial interior design aspects in a living space. This has the power to draw the eye when a guest enters the room. Much like the rest of your home, the way that you decorate the mantel shows how stylish you really are.

If you’re thinking of updating the mantel in the living room or dining room, then you probably have no idea where to begin. These tips should help you get started –

Learn Balance

An important element of decorating any mantel is balance. This is all about balancing the objects in a space. Make sure that the objects you bring to decorate that space are symmetrical. For homes that have a more conservative and classic look should follow the rules of symmetry to a T. For a more modern approach, though, you can just put in accessories that best fit your personality.

You would also want to pay attention to another element of design – scale. Remember this so that your design pieces will not overwhelm the space. Experiment with different textures, shapes and colors. You might be surprised at how much you would like a bold color or a lofty statement piece.

Layering Is In

In the South, it is common to see stylized fireplace mantels. With more layers that are added, the prettier the finished look becomes.

A famous mantel decorating idea in that area is to layer different sizes of unframed or framed art. These adorn the mantel. Don’t get the idea that all you can do is hanging. You can either hang or you don’t.

If you have to hang a framed piece of art or a photograph, make sure that you don’t do it above eye level. Just hang it a few inches above the mantel as this is the ideal height. Local artwork is a more meaningful mantel accessory. Imagine having a locally painted scene of your city or town hung above your living room mantel. It will surely be a conversation catalyst.

Mirror, Mirror on the Mantel

Another wonderful fireplace mantel designing tip is to hang various shapes and sizes of mirrors instead of the usual one piece. Either way, whether you use a statement piece or a group of mirrors, be sure to make the mantel frame the decorative element.

An antique-looking mirror will surely draw the eye to any impressive living room mantel. Add a more modern approach by installing a metal-framed piece.

Mirrors also help in brightening up a living or dining room.

Uttermost Accessories Costa Del Sol, Potted Greenery Botanicals 60090

Greenery for 2017

A fireplace is often made of hard and heavy materials like stones or bricks so they tend to weigh down a room especially if they are not dressed properly.  To break the monotony and dry look that these materials project, then you have to soften them with fluid lines. And what better and easier way to do this than to bring in some potted plants?

Having a pop of green can complement a wide array of designs. Floral arrangements, on the other hand, add a more feminine look.

Artistry Is the Key

Whether you are an art connoisseur or just an admirer of works that are visually pleasing, having an art display is the way to go. You can settle for the gallery wall or you can just have one piece sit atop the mantel. Alternatively, you can also make a strong statement by using a single piece of art which reflects your taste.

Switch Like the Seasons

The mantel can also reflect the current season. Embrace the season by adding flowers when it’s spring and putting a bowl of pinecones during fall.

Remember that the hearth is the focal point of a room so consider which among these decorative elements you will soon put to good use.

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2017 Design Ideas

Thursday, January 26th, 2017

Accessories Uttermost La Costa Greenery, Set3 60115

It’s almost the end of January but are you still looking for ideas that you can use in your home? No worries, there are a lot of design ideas that’s previewed for this year. Industry leaders have spoken and fashion experts have agreed – the trends for 2017 are as follows –

The Satin Brass Comeback

In recent years, it has been observed that brash finishes have been reappearing in homes. These are cherished for their shiny, golden tones that can make a place look expensive without the exorbitant price tag. More than these lovely finishes, though, designers have decided to embrace a softer tone such as that of brushed brass or satin.

Satin brass is a warm and muted version of the popular brass finish.

The satin brass finish offers a transitional look and it can even complement a lot of styles in many beautiful ways. This finish also looks amazing against any color within the rainbow spectrum.

Those who are aiming for a more eclectic look will also find the satin brass finish to be a useful element.

Converted Vanities

If you are having a difficult time finding the right vanity for your bathroom or bedroom, then think outside of the box for a moment. Find some chest of drawers or consoles that you could convert into lovely vanities.

Greenery

The verdant color for this year as announced by Pantone is greenery. This became an instant hit for those who are on the look out for something that’s revitalizing and could add zest while still managing to fuse with wood and other warm tones.

FFDM’s Brentwood Collection: Nicole Pedestal Table 1581-815.814

White and Off-White

Have you ever stepped into a room that’s painted solely in white? There is simply something refreshing about it but when it’s done in a stark tone, then it seems to project a clinical feeling.

What you need to be in this year is to balance the white palette with the beauty of creamy off-white hues. Natural linens could also offer a more breathtaking look that’s also brimming with character.

Dress Up Laundry Rooms

Bathrooms and kitchens often get the biggest chunk in any remodeling budget. Now it’s time to make your space look great down to the last nook and cranny. So, go to the laundry room and have some storage space installed. Have some color splashed across the walls there – you often go to the laundry area so why not make it a good-looking space, too?

A laundry room remodel for 150 square foot  would cost an average of $2,700. Leave the appliances and you get to spend more on tiles and other detailing tasks.

Dress Up Entryways Too

The entryway – much like a powder room – is a small place where you can experiment with design without going overboard on your budget. To avoid spending $2,500 or more on a small entryway, consider having wallpaper or a statement mirror. Or you can use a narrow table with tray for your pairs of shoes underneath. Remember that you’re still working on a first impression for your future guests so you have to present your home in a stylish manner from the onset.

Outdoor-Indoor Shower

Outdoor showers are a wonderful idea in tropical settings. The downside here is that they are not a practical thing to set up all year-round. So, to solve the problem on weather, find a strategic area where you can create a shower area that’s still connected to the outdoors without being problematic with privacy.

Black Steel and Glass Door

This steel-framed and glass-paneled door is wonderful when installed in dark entryways. This is so some natural light could go in.

 

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Mirror Decorating: The Do’s and Don’ts

Wednesday, January 25th, 2017

Rachael Ray Home by Legacy Classic Furniture Accessories Vanity Tri-Fold Mirror 6020-0700

There are many uses for mirrors inside homes. First, these are beautiful, reflective elements that can help bounce off light. They can also help open up space to enhance any home’s interior design. There are a few guidelines, however, that you need to consider when you’re hanging mirrors in your home. Here are some of those –

Large Mirror, Tiny Room

So what’s the rule when it comes to hanging large mirrors? Large mirrors can be hung even inside a tiny room. Don’t be scared, just do it. Place a huge mirror right on the wall where the dining table sits so it can reflect the beautiful crystal chandelier. You can also install a mirror right across a lovely piece of artwork. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, then go even bigger!

Have you had a misconception about wall-to-wall mirrors? How about you overcome your fear of them and distress them or install them with wall sconces? The former should give them a traditional look while the latter is the perfect modern tone.

Mirror as Focal Point

Lean mirrors can effectively dress up any space. These are those big, upright mirrors that you don’t install but place on the floor then rested against one wall. These are the ideal mirrors in corners and dressing rooms. Again, if you’re feeling adventurous, then put a spotlight behind this mirror. This should create a lovely corner glow.

Install one bold piece that will set the tone for the entire room.

Say Yes to Feng Shui

According to the laws of Feng Shui, it is not really a good idea to use mirrors inside bedrooms. It is also believed that a bed that faces a mirror interferes with the person’s energy as it can also invite a third party to an intimate relationship.

Alternatively, you can have a strategy for a few well-placed mirrors. Do put a mirror atop a fireplace as it will bring good energy into the room. Remember that the mirror is a water element and when it is placed over the fireplace, it creates a balance. Also, it is good Feng Shui to put a mirror right by the door entrance.

FFDM’s Bishop Mirror 1660-950

Mirrored Hallways

Small, horizontal mirrors work in narrow staircases or hallways. This is an effective way to widen the space as well as to create better flow from one room to the next.

Acquire Mirrored Furniture

There are many innovative ways that you can use mirrored furniture like a mirrored coffee table or chest of drawers.

The eyes are often tricked by mirrors that they don’t exist so if you have a huge furniture right in the middle of a room, then make it seemingly disappear by having mirrors installed on it. You can also place mirrored desks and drawers right next to a wall inside a small room. This will make the floor look like it’s extending beyond the wall, thus, an illusion of extra floor space.

Just be wary in using mirrored furniture in a busy room, though. It is not necessary to put in mirrored furniture when the room already has a lot of accents.

Now the Don’ts

  • Do not place mirrors just for the heck of it. Make sure that it is reflecting something that’s worth gazing at.
  • Do not overdo the use of mirrors in kitchens and bedrooms. In fact, mirrors are not needful inside the kitchen. Plus, you get the added problem of having water marks all over the reflective surface.
  • Never use mirrors on your ceilings. This is quite tacky as it is something that you would expect in a cheap motel but not inside an elegant home.

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The Valentine’s Day Bedroom

Wednesday, January 25th, 2017

Decorate your bedroom this Valentine’s Day with these lovely Uttermost Lamps and Lighting Lamya, Candelabra 19569

Valentine’s Day is a moment each year when lovers or couples celebrate their affection for each other. This day was named after a Christian martyr named Valentine and at a time when courtly love grew. It was a moment when the day was linked to everything that’s romantic.

These days, Valentine’s Day is celebrated throughout the globe with special thanks, of course, to advertising and marketing execs throughout the world. This magical day need not end, though. You can relive this day over and over again as you set up your bedroom to a more romantic and magical setting.

Here are some vital tips on how you can decorate the bedroom during Valentine’s Day (and beyond) –

Romantic Lighting

Lighting is an effective means to spice up the romantic ambience in the bedroom. Soft lighting is the way to go.

If you want to go beyond wall sconces or lamps, then try candles. These evoke intimate feelings effortlessly. They can also effectively make stress go away while giving the room a romantic glow.

For the best romantic effect, group similar or different-colored candles together in different corners of the bedroom.

Add some dimmers to the lighting fixtures in your room. These are, again, an effective way to up the romantic ambience in the bedroom.

Reflect Some Love

Make it a point to place mirrors right where they will be able to reflect the softened lights. Add depth to your bedroom by hanging a mirror or two.

Lovin’ the Curtains

Select some curtains or window dressings that are plush and alluring. Anything that’s dark such as purple will work. The purpose for the darker curtains in this room is so lights outside won’t be able to penetrate the restful bedroom. The thicker varieties such as drapes will also be able to muffle external noise.

See how you can match the curtains with the bedding. Achieve this and you will have a room that’s bursting with romantic appeal.

Speak of Bedding

The central point of the bedroom’s interior design rests upon your choice of bedding. Satin and silk are the best fabrics for a romantic bed. These will provide a relaxed yet sexy ambience inside your room.

If you cannot afford satin or silk, then just settle for sateen. This unbelievable fabric offers the same luxurious feeling that the other two offer. You don’t have to pay your arm and leg plus you will remain comfortable while you go to bed with your loved one.

It is also crucial to pick the right color for your bedding. A romantic night (or string of nights at that!) can be achieved when you work hard in choosing the color palette. Go for bronze, pearl or gold since these three are known to create a romantic setting. Some of the more popular colors for bedrooms also include white, black red, green and blue or a combination of any two of these hues.

Your choice of bedding also includes picking the right texture for your room. Pick velvet, faux fur or velour. These are soft, rich fabrics that you could consider for your blankets, comforters and pillows.

If you’re a huge fan of good ol’ fashioned romance, then you could choose coverlet and boudoir pillows. These will give an interesting impression due to their fabrics.

The Canopied Bed

Add a canopy to the bed. This won’t just give the bedroom a more spacious look and feel but also a way to romanticize that space.

Music and Romance

What’s romance without a little music? So go ahead and play your favorite romantic song, spread some potpourri and light some scented candles and the bedroom will surely be a place of fondness and warmth.

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