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Archive for February, 2017

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The Pool Cabana – A Getaway Within a Getaway

Tuesday, February 28th, 2017

The American Leather Living Room Aiden Chair ADN-CHR-ST has the right fabric, color and framework to fit inside a lovely pool cabana.

A cabana is any tent-like, small structure that has been designed to provide shade. This is often used by the beach or alongside a beautiful pool. Apart from providing shade, these can also double as dressing rooms. There are cabanas that are used as a mini kitchen for people who are enjoying the pool. Cabanas can be temporary or a permanent structure.

When you live in an area that has a lovely tropical climate, the cabana is sure to be at home. Build yours with those thatched roofing though if you’re planning to have one near the pool, then have framed aluminum, wood or steel. If you want plastic, then you can also go ahead and do so.

Cabana Sizes

There are many sizes for a cabanas. The small cabana can be as little as four by four feet or about 1.2 meters by 1.2 meters. This resembles a tiny bathroom.

A big cabana, on the other hand, can be as huge as a hospital suite which is about 10 x 10 feet. This is around 3.05 meters by 3.05 meters. There are also options that are 12” x 12” or 3.7 by 3.7 meters.

Cabana Amenities

In terms of amenities, cabanas have a lot to offer; some just come as basic structures that just keep the sun’s rays from burning your skin but there are also those that have curtains to offer a bit more of privacy. Still some include air vents, even electrical wiring so that you can have ceiling fans installed or even have a TV included.

Most cabanas come with exterior-grade fabrics. This cloth’s main purpose is to keep the sun’s rays out and also to provide some form of protection from rain. Don’t think that the flimsy curtain keep you dry during a storm, though. If you want to be protected even in such weathers, then find the pool cabanas that have more elaborate designs. These come with walls made of harder materials such as wood.

Inside the pool cabana, you can also unleash your creativity. Go ahead and have it furnished to your liking. Have some chairs inside complete with a cozy table to hold some drinks. Larger cabanas could even be installed with a bathroom and some running water.

Cabana Paint

If you choose to create a cabana by the pool and have it made of wood, then you can stylize it further by having it painted. Change the color according to the season; experiment; mix and match.

The Ornate Cabana

There are many methods of designing your pool cabana. Customize it according to your taste. Get carved wooden posts to create a distinctive cabana. You can also have iron or steel molding with ornate designs. Ask the help of a professional installer for a sturdier structure.

Cabana Lighting

A basic decorative touch for the pool cabana is the addition of lighting. Use fairy lights and have them coiled around those customized posts. You can also have a small pendant light set up if you have a working electrical system already in place.

‘Feeling more fabulous? Why not go all the way with a chandelier?

The Hooker Furniture Living Room Melange Flowered Drum Table is an outdoor charm that can make a wonderful accessory to your pool cabana.

Fortifying Your Pool Cabana

If you want to make sure that your cabana is able to stand up to winds and the torrential rains, then be sure to set metal posts. Determine the right size for the four posts. Begin by digging 14” x 2’ deep holes. Pour concrete to the bottom of every hole then set a 6×6 redwood post.

Attach the post then pour dry concrete all around it. Use a level to check the posts also to make sure that they are perfectly lined up.

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Everything Teak

Tuesday, February 28th, 2017

Uttermost Living Room Driftwood Glass Top Cocktail Table 25519

Teak is a renowned wood that is used by a lot of artisan furniture makers and bought by a lot of homeowners worldwide. This has led to deforestation of teak which is why its harvest is now being controlled in many areas. So, why is teak such a desirable material?

Teak Is Strong

Teak is a kind of hardwood. This means it is durable, sturdy and could easily withstand extreme cold and heat. This is also an excellent wood for use in manufacturing outdoor furniture. This can even be used as a material for an heirloom piece should you decide to have teak furniture indoors.

Teak is quite durable which is why it is unlikely that it would have rot or be eaten by termites.

Be able to choose the right type of teak for your furniture. The best quality should have ample quantities of rubber and oil. Such pieces can take on rigidity tests in your home and even outdoors.

Teak Is Beautiful

What makes teak charming is the color of its grain. This is one of the most attractive materials for homeowners and furniture makers. When used outdoors, teak will achieve a silvery-gray color while those that are used indoors can be oiled to retain their golden color.

Since it is super strong, it is a viable material to use for most artisans. Compared to most softwoods, it also offers a lot of options in terms of look.

Teak Is Adaptable

Teak is naturally resistant to termites and the natural elements. This makes it an adaptable wood, one that can easily resist moisture. Since it is too strong, teak does not splinter easily. This is also the reason why shipbuilders trust this material – this has been so for centuries.

For home applications, you can have a sturdy teakwood dining room table, bedroom cabinets, and the best patio furniture.

Uttermost Accessories Teak Horse Sculpture 17083

What’s Real Teak?

It is crucial to know some facts that will help you check if you are purchasing real teak furniture. Of course, it pays to buy only from reputable dealers. Check out our best teakwood pieces – here.

Teak is a hardwood that will not succumb to warping and splitting. So don’t fall for those must-have pieces that are actually priced moderately because you will end up buying non-teak.

Do your research and don’t be duped into buying teak like wood or family of teak. Real teak has dense and an extremely grained wood. It also has natural oil content which preserves the wood for many decades.

Another telltale sign that you are buying the real deal is the price. Teak patio or indoor furniture is never cheap. This is because furniture valuation is based on durability and with teak, you are in furniture heaven. There are very few materials that are as durable as this premium hardwood.

Teak Has a Rich History

The first record that showed teak being mentioned was in the 4th century. Since then, the world has fallen in love with this durable and charming material. The Middle Ages have seen a lot of teak especially in shipbuilding.

Teak is also loved by shipbuilders because it can resist rust, even corrosion. Countless ancient benches have also been constructed out of this sturdy material. These days, there are a lot of chairs and benches in England that are made of century-old teak.

Teak Today

Today, teakwood is still used in shipbuilding and in the manufacture of patio and garden furniture. This is almost indestructible because of its hardness and high oil content. Most construction projects these days also favor this material.

Teak comes from Southeast Asia and it takes almost four decades for each tree to come to maturity. So the next time you run your hands through the smooth surface of teak furniture, cherish that wonderful feeling for a moment and know that this piece will live a long, long, long time.

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Homey Yet Functional – Learn the 7 Tricks to a Cozier Habitat

Monday, February 27th, 2017

Hooker Furniture Living Room Jackson Glider/Recliner could effortlessly sit in a corner and still beckon one to curl up and relax.

A home that’s inviting – one that beckons and lingers in the minds of guests – is one that’s enjoyable and cozy. Regardless of the current season, each home can benefit from having a dash of coziness added. Here are some solutions –

The Entryway Set the Impression

As cliché as it may seem, first impressions, indeed, are lasting. Winter has been tough but a quick clean on your front steps plus a welcome mat will do a lot of wonders. How about installing a hello sign on your front door?

These are fundamental ways to create an inviting vibe. If you want to up the level of comfort still, then add a pot of big, green leafy plant by the side of the front door. Your guests will simply love the pop of green as they are being welcomed to your home.

Make Space

Adding furnishings seems to be the primary concern of many homeowners. What they lack to plan for are the spaces between such arrangements. While it matters that you put lovely furniture pieces, it matters too that there is ample space where you could move around them.

This is especially true for smaller homes. There should be comfy seating spaces which are also fre from obstacles. Never cramp oversized furniture too closely to one another or put too many pillows on the floor for your guests.

Also, for parents, try to designate a spot for those toys. If possible, create a cozy corral for them.

Yes to Soft Textiles

What could spell comfort more than plush textiles? Use plush rugs and carpets then be sure to layer them like a pro.

Invest in deep furniture and soft benches and ottomans.

Experiment with Hues

Color is a design element connector. For instance, you can use magenta for a cozier living room but this doesn’t have to be on large furniture. This shade of red can be used on cotton pillows and on some accessories.

Hyde Park Poster Queen Bed is FFDM’s contribution to comfort inside bedrooms.

Use Design Tricks

Always think of the guest’s probable first impression. Consider the space layout and pay attention even to the least design details. You can paint the far wall right across the front door with a bold accent hue. Have fun with lighting and art or just about anything that can catch people’s attention.

These, when done properly, will surely catch people’s attention, creating a feeling that they would want to linger awhile and even explore your home.

Personalize

Another simple way to make your home cozy yet still functional is to personalize the space. Invest only in pieces that come from reputable dealers then personalize them if you must. Put photographs of your family on that new credenza and let everyone see how sparkling your personality is with art pieces on walls.

Aroma in the Air

A cozy home should not have any bad smells. If you’re not sure what your space smells like at the moment then take a breather, walk through a park, then go back home. The first smell that would hit your nose is the one that lingers throughout the day. If it’s not pleasant, then get rid of that malodor.

Get some fragrant potted plants to get rid of the smell. If these don’t work, then purchase some air fresheners. If you’re not a huge fan of things bought, then you can also prepare some scents in your own kitchen.

Begin by simmering water in a saucepan then add slices of citrus fruits and some herbs such as mint or lavender. This diffuse pleasant aroma through your home.

Of course, never forget garbage disposal; no amount of cleanup and freshening up could create wonders if you don’t declutter.

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What Constitutes Cozy?

Monday, February 27th, 2017

FFDM’s Avery Queen Metal Canopy Bed spells cozy to a T.

Looking at your home as a mere place to lie down at night isn’t a good thing. Ideally, this should be a getaway, a space where you can let go of your worries and worldly cares. If you would like to spend more time in your home, then you have to exert extra effort in making it look and feel inviting. But what does cozy even mean?

We all need our homes to be the place of refuge. This is supposed to be a space where you can balance yourself and your psyches.

You don’t have to spend too much in creating your cozy living space. Coziness, after all, means arranging all the elements that can make a space appear inviting. Don’t worry about not having a degree in interior design since you can still cozify your home minus that degree.

Begin by Layering

One of the quickest ways to create a warm and inviting space is to layer your furnishings. Use tons of pillows and blankets in the bedrooms.

Layer a couch or bed with comforter and some soft cotton blankets. These are your best defense against the cold. Adding pillows in different sizes and shapes will also accommodate various activities such as napping and reading.

Use Warm Colors

Barbara Jacobs, a professional consultant on hues says room color is usually underestimated. The effects of hues on one’s psyche is both significant and subtle. If you want a quieter environment, then make sure that there are no extremely bright colors around.

Use warmer shades such as yellows, oranges and neutral browns. These are the coziest shades that you can find.

Install Soft Rugs

There are couches that are lovely to sit upon and those that are truly comfortable to sit upon. This means that you have to strike a balance between beauty, functionality and comfort; else, you end up having a couch for display or something that’s too ugly to look at no matter how comfy.

Mix and Experiment

Buy from a reputable furniture shop and look at their wide array of options. For the best offers on sofas, check out our collection here.

Get the pieces that spell I-N-V-I-T-I-N-G. When you consider harmonizing pieces together, think less of matching the pieces but more on which goes with which. Mixing even the most dissimilar pieces brings visual texture which is what makes any space look cozier.

Hickory White Living Room Left Corner Sofa ELCS-SBT is comfy because of the throws and plush upholstery.

It’s All About Lighting

One of the most significant factors in making a room look comfortable is correct lighting. Lighting makes a huge difference especially in creating a warmer ambience.

Use various light sources, the brighter ones should be used for areas where large gatherings often take place. The lamps and recessed lighting should be placed in areas where more intimate activities take place.

Use cool light bulbs instead of the warm ones. This takes a minimal amount of work but it gives instant cozification.

Display YOU

You need to fill your rooms with things that describe you. Don’t listen to your sister or what your best friend tells you is trendy. Decide what you would want to put in your own space. Also, be sure to put a budget together especially for your renovation project.

Seek the help of a professional designer if needed. It can get confusing, even overwhelming to plan and execute your cozification project.

Consider also the color palette that best describes you. Fabrics will perfectly blend your chosen hue palette so be careful in choosing those.

Always surround yourself with design elements that you truly love. Remember that you don’t have to change yourself just so you can catch up with trends. If you have a substantial collection of books, travel photos or jars, go and display them.

Your home is supposed to be the place where you truly belong so fill it up with the things that pronounces the best of you.

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Focal Point: The Creation of a Masterpiece

Friday, February 24th, 2017

Black is definitely in with Hooker Furniture Home Office Lytle Writing Desk.

When talking in terms of photography, the focal point is that point in space where the parallel light rays converge after they pass through the lens or when they bounce off a mirror. The perfect mirror or lens should send the light rays through a single focal point which would result in a clear image.

The best-designed rooms usually have a focal point. This is that part where your eyes rest the moment you enter any space. Whether this is a texture, architectural feature or a lighting fixture, this is a visually interesting part of any home.

But is there an easy way to come up with a focal point?

Focal Point in Interior Design

The simplest way to make a focal point is to find the brightest or the darkest hues in a space. When creating a focal point, be sure to keep the palette of the rest of the room neutral. It’s okay to use grays or soft brown on rugs, sofas and walls. Use that bold pop of color (e.g. tangerine or emerald green) as your focal point whether you are using a piece of art, chair or a single wall.

Tie the rest of the design elements through the use of small accents in your chosen color. Use this on throws and accessories.

Black almost always captivates anyone who lays his or her eyes on this hue. This is can also work as a focal point – in fact, effectively so – because it is imposing and solid. Black draws the eyes while also grounding the space. This is the reason why black is an amazing focal point.

Use black items that have a unique shape like a bizarre lamp or a funky chair. How about a small black sculpture? That works, too.

Color is not the only way that you can infuse a focal point in a home, though. Always remember the elements of furniture placement. This is also true with accessories.

For example, if you want the eyes to go towards the fireplace, then be sure to arrange the furniture on both sides of the said architectural feature. Or if you have a unique lamp, be sure to place it in front and at the center of a console table while smaller accessories are placed all around it.

Focal Point in Architectural Feature

This central element can easily help you position furniture pieces in a room. The most common architectural focal point is the fireplace. Notice how all other design elements in a room tend to revolve around this architectural feature?

Getting the right size for an architectural element to become the focal point is the most vital thing that you need to consider. If it is too big, it may overpower the entire design. If it is too small, the furniture eventually become the focal point.

Focal Point in Artwork

A perfectly-positioned painting or any work of art that is centered between dual doors and placed on a console table is just the right vision to welcome visitors into your home.

The tone and size of the artwork is also crucial. Pick a painting that has an appropriate scale for the room. The tones must draw the eyes but should never clash with the rest of the design.

A large, bold art piece will look fantastic when placed against a neutral wall or beside a neutral-colored furniture. Using a series of prints also has a huge impact on any space whether they are identical or eclectically mixed.

Focal Point and Views

When you have a wonderful view to share, say, a lush garden or an infinity pool, then be sure to use architecture to emphasize it. An oversized window could do the trick. As you do this, be sure to choose simple furniture that will complement the scenic view outdoors.

 

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The Shaker Style Explained

Friday, February 24th, 2017

Hooker Furniture Dining Room Treviso Ladderback Side Chair

The Shakers were a religious people and their sect was founded in the late 1700s in England. This design’s philosophy centers on functionality, even necessity. The Shakers also believe that design can also be achieved through proper use of beauty. They believed strongly, too, in common ownership as well as communal living. They were widely persecuted for these beliefs, though.

Officially known as the United Society of Believers in Christ’s 2nd Coming, these people were a break away from the Quakers from England. They created their religious society and granted equality to both men and women. The Shakers have greatly diminished by the 20th century with only a few practicing communities still in existence.

The Shakers latter immigrated to the Americas and they lived peaceful lives centered on celibacy and abstinence. Since they lived celibate lives, their community did not grow and so the only way they could add to their numbers was through conversion.

Styling It Like the Shakers

Shaker furniture was the chief element of the Shaker design. With too much persecution going around, it was necessary to make functionality the main concept of their furniture design and décor. This also meant that they focused on the quality of their craftsmanship. This resulted into perfected pieces that are natural, uncluttered and simple.

When it comes to colors, the Shakers loved everything that’s dark and rich. So say yes to forest green, blue and ruby red. Heavy damask patterns are also welcome.

The Shaker color palette should not be restricted to these hues, though. You are welcome to use magentas, raw pink, violets and peacock greens. Have those fabrics highly patterned. For winter, use damask and velvet pieces. You can then shift to chintz and cotton during the cooler summer months.

Wallpaper was widely embraced during the Shakers’ time because it was mass-produced. With this, the masses took on the hint and wallpapered their walls according to the patterns that they chose. Paper evolved from skirting board to dado line and then patterned in damask, flock or water silk.

Hooker Furniture Living Room Melange Damasque Demi Console 638-85027

Shaker Style Today

Since the Shakers looked at simplicity yet perfected craftsmanship as forms of prayer, many traditional furniture lovers still like their style.

The ladder-back chair is the perfect way to get into the Shaker vibe. This chair did exist even before the Shakers but it was these people that made the furniture piece more comfortable. They chose to remove the ornate designs and just create the straight, simple designs with a much leaner look.

There are also modern versions of the Shakers’ ladder-back chair such as the elongated look complete with slender legs. There are also those well-known Shaker style ladder-backs that are now used in bars. These come in counter-heights.

The Shaker peg rail is also a famous Shaker element. It is a simple board that’s affixed to the wall complete with equally-spaced pegs. These can then be used as a hook of sorts for tools or clothes. Traditionally, it was the ladder backs of chairs that were hung onto the peg rails so they can be taken out of the way when someone is sweeping the room.

Going Shaker also means using cabinetry and baskets for storage. Use sturdy and simple baskets, preferably the ones that are handmade. As for your cabinets, you will find some of the best options here.

Find cabinets that have round knobs, simple and are unadorned. These have to be traditionally made from hardwood and polished to perfection. Shakers have also designed other storage units for homes such as nesting boxes.

As for your flooring, be sure to use untreated wooden planks. The walls have to be muted and bare which is in line with the Shaker interiors.

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Getting Deeper Into Art Nouveau

Thursday, February 23rd, 2017

Wesley Allen Bar and Game Room Bar Stool 207

Art Nouveau generated a lot of graphic artists, décor enthusiasts and architects throughout Europe. This style came with a wide variety of choices and it eventually became known as Jugendstil in Germany or the Glasgow Style.

Art Nouveau’s aim was to modernize design. It sought to break free from the eclectic historical designs that have been popular back in the day.

Artists saw inspiration in many geometric and organic forms, thus, evolving from classic designs. This evolving style emphasized the natural forms of furniture pieces that resembled the blossoms and stems of plants.

Art Nouveau also highlighted the linear contours which took over hues. This is usually represented in yellows, muted greens, blues and browns.

The Art Nouveau movement was geared to abolish the common art hierarchy. Sculpture and paintings in the so-called liberal arts became superior to decorative pieces.

Art Nouveau also had its fair share of tests. It went out of fashion before the First World War which paved the way for Art Deco. Art Nouveau experienced a huge revival in the 60s which why it is now seen as the predecessor of modernism.

Key Features

The deep desire to break away from the historical features of the 19th century was a crucial motivation behind Art Nouveau. This also prodded the establishment of modernism.

Industrial production was widespread during that time yet decorative art was then increasingly being dominated by mass-produced stuff which imitated earlier periods.

Art Nouveau artists also sought the revival of excellent workmanship to raise the status of crafts.

Art Nouveau also dominated the academic system from the 17th till the 19th centuries. This underpinned the belief that sculpture and painting were superior to ironwork and furniture design. Artists overturned the said belief as they aspired to create an art totality or the so-called Gesamtkunstwerks.

This movement then narrowed the gap between fine arts and applied arts. Whether or not this gap has been completely closed is a matter of debate these days.

Art Nouveau and the Table Lamp

Table lamps are a few of the most renowned Art Nouveau pieces that have been produced. An example is a lamp with a bronze base that mimics the lower trunk as well as the roots of a tree. It comes with a glass shade that appears like the shade of a Wisteria tree.

Art Nouveau Design Elements

There isn’t a single definitive feature for Art Nouveau. That comes as a huge relief to many homeowners since this gives them a leeway to embrace just the distinguishing elements and then they can be themselves.

Art Nouveau is a philosophy that favors the application of artistic designs to everyday stuff. No single object was too functional to be glamorized.

Art Nouveau is also the separation of fine art and applied/decorative arts. So this is a distinction between sculptures and painting from furniture, ceramics and other practical elements.

In line with the belief that Art Nouveau is art in everyday life, you can employ decorative patterns in all forms of art that you can think of. Use tendril and leaf motifs, even intertwined organic features, curves, also right angles.

Both the stained and varnished versions of hardwood are huge with Art Nouveau. You could also go big with colorful and Oriental rugs.

Say yes to Tiffany lamps as well as stained glass windows. These create authentic Art Nouveau ambience.

As for colors, it is a matter of personal choice. Just as long as you keep it fairly light while being enigmatic. Use browns, sage greens, lilacs and shades of mustard.

For your furniture, incorporate leaves, stylized flowers, roots and buds.

 

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More 2017 Decorating Trends: Out with the Old, In with the New

Thursday, February 23rd, 2017

Century Furniture Living Room Accent Table SF5467 is saying a million yes(es) to marble this year.

We can now safely say that 2016 was quite an unpredictable year in terms of interior design. This year, you’re in for a ride as you are bound to push boundaries. The forecasts for this year are bold to the point of being jaw-dropping. There are trends that you need to say goodbye to and there are daring ones that you need to consider.

No to Antique

Yup. The pressure is no longer on when it comes to owning and displaying strictly antique pieces in any home. This doesn’t mean that you simply store the old pieces and just go buying new ones.

You will have to learn to pair the antique ones with some trendier pieces. It is wonderful to have a period as the starting off point but don’t stick to it exclusively.

Create a more aesthetically stimulating look that will harmonize with the rest of the mixed elements that you have in your home.

No to Oversized Furniture

Remember that ample space is more important than having large furniture. Oversized furniture often overwhelms – they are meant to be used only in the most spacious homes. If you have medium to small space, don’t overpower that limited floor area by stuffing it with large furniture pieces.

Just don’t. This year, you will have to use ideally-scaled pieces for your home.

Yes to Matte Appliance

The kitchen is an interesting room to design this year. The new look for kitchens is daring without being overconfident. Find objects or appliances with matte finish then strip away the walls and countertops of all other distractions.

Say no to surface sheen and other such attention-grabbing feature.

Yes to Marble Pieces

If you haven’t already noticed, Pinterest is showing a lot of marble pieces this year. This is a huge trend that you simply should not ignore.

Do you remember how the tile market used to be dominated by marble especially when it is paired with metal or wood? Marble-patterned fabrics and wall coverings are huge this year, just as marble and brass fusions are also a hit.

Yes to Jewel Tones

While beige is also acceptable this year, it can get dull especially when you are uncertain about what to pair it with. The best look for your walls is to add drama – use deep jewel tones such as amethyst, pastels and emerald green. These are also colors from Mother Nature which just cements the trend for 2017 that natural colors are also in.

Yes to Subway Tiles

One other trend that you can embrace – though not totally new – is the subway tile. This is a classic yet a versatile tile option which can work with many different styles.

This look is all about having an unexpected element in the middle of the rest of your design. The subway tile offers a great effect with any farmhouse kitchen. Just add a dark grout and you will automatically make the backsplash appear more graphic.

Subway tiles come in a variety of materials, finishes and colors. This is a wonderful way to fuse other design elements.

Yes to Smart Home Elements

People’s lives now revolve around equipment and devices. This is also true with our homes. You are bound to see more and more imaginative ways of infusing charging docks to spaces.

Say yes to smart furniture this year.

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Be Vogue © with These 2017 Decorating Trends

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017

Tommy Bahama Home Living Room Flamingo Octagonal End Table 593-951 has emerald green top which is perfect when married with the sturdy hue that is brown.

The year 2016 was a blast when talking about home décor. It was a year filled with Nordic-inspired interiors and everything woven. With the first quarter of 2017 almost drawing to a close, it is about time that you begin exploring the latest decorating craze. Most homes have already embraced the elements that are in for this year so why be left behind?

Green Is Definitely In

Martyn Lawrence-Bullard, a celebrity interior designer is certain that green is strong this year; from emerald to lime green, to hints of this color throughout your home, it is the one color that can give life on default.

Go Tropical

It is also not a secret that the interior design industry gets most of its cues from the fashion runway. This year, the fashion trends set by Prada, Marc Jacobs, and Emanuel Ungaro are quite huge. These designers have embraced the lush, tropical beauty.

Tropical prints will continue to dominate fabrics and wallpapers this year. If large prints are a little too much for you – don’t fret – there are still throws that can show this same look but with smaller patterns.

Decorating this year is pretty much like buying a trendy piece of clothing, you have to consider what’s hip yet, at the same time, a classic design element.

Don’t Forget Texture

Woven designs are still holding strong from last year’s trend. Remember that texture is what makes a home more inviting so don’t hesitate to blend in some of it into your home.

Textures are becoming more interesting each year. You can see brass tables that have been brushed to fabrics, wallpapers and lighting fixtures.

A quick way that you can add texture to your home is to drape an interesting piece of wool fabric on a sectional or a loveseat. Leather would also become more exciting with this interesting piece.

Marble and Brass Fusion

Young Huh has forecasted brass and marble fusion as something big this year – and he is right. The trend is now dominant in many kitchens and baths throughout the country. This is no surprise as it is a combination that is industrial yet glamorous.

Unique Patterns

What could be more interesting than geometrics for this year? Your goal is to create an African, Asian, or even Indian patterns but make sure that you modernize them if you don’t want to appear too tribal.

You can carry over this quirkiness to your lighting fixtures this year. Let unique designs dominate your dining room. This room is a wonderful space to do something rare.

Hooker Furniture Living Room Chairside Table shows the trendy fusion of marble and brass.

Muted Hues

If the thought of bold colors in your home mortifies you, then that’s okay, too. This doesn’t mean that you will not be trendy this year. If you’re feeling anxious about loud colors, then you can also go for neutrals such as camel brown, pale grays, beige and blush pink. These are super, super trendy this year.

Now let’s focus on gray. This was a huge color last year and it will continue to reign supreme this year. Look forward to different shades of gray, lots of gray white and deeper tones of this color. This is the kind of color that can add character to any home, one that would complement a wide spectrum of shades.

Say Yes to Bronze

If marble and brass are a huge combination this year, then bronze is a class of its own. This is a metal that can warm up your space while providing your home a classic, glamorous, even an enchanting look. This is the perfect metal to add to your lighting fixtures and accessories.

Use bronze decorative bowls, lamps and vases in the living room, dining room, even the kitchen.

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Arabian Interiors: Ornamentally Rich and Luxurious

Wednesday, February 22nd, 2017

BEAUTIFUL FRIENDSHIP MOROCCAN CONSOLE TABLE comes from the Humphrey Bogart collection of FFDM.

Arabian style makes one think of hot summer nights with colorful and ornamental features. These are definitely different from bare monochromes. This style is found throughout Europe and more so in Southeast Asia because this has a lot to do with the Muslims conquering both territories during the 7th and 8th centuries.

These days, Arabian style is still going strong.

The Arabic style is known to be luxurious and rich. There are fundamental elements in Arabic interiors such as windows that are closed by bars as well as carvings made of wood or plaster.

Arabian homes are also packed with repetitions and graphic tiles. Such repetitions are done to signify the infinite power of the Muslim god Allah.

Humans and animal forms are barely seen inside Arabian homes because the Muslims teach that Allah’s work is impossible to replicate.

Foliage is seen a lot with a lot of patterns. Though there are patterns everywhere, there is still the need to simplify.

Arabian Ornaments

Arabian windows create a gentle light effect inside a room. Double or single window openings overlap through the arches. They are also generally located on the upper part of walls. Bottom parts of walls form panels and are coated with some ornamentation.

Arabian ornaments are referred to as arabesque and they all form an obvious grid. These have geometric as well as stylized plant character plus labels. There are also some canonized handwritings since human images were banned by the Muslim religion.

Arabian Architecture

Arabian architecture is what’s referred to as architecture of the veil. This is because the beauty is often seen within the interiors. Amazing courtyards complete with pools and fountains cool the inner rooms. All these are concealed from the outdoors.

Arabic architecture makes use of decorative elements such as alabaster, stucco, wood carvings, marble, figured bricks, tiles, cut stones, glass or marble mosaic, wood or ivory inlay, and paintings.

If you observe more closely, you will see that carved wood wares have already reached perfection. The Arabs have perfected the use of valuable species of wood especially in the creation of mosaics. Ivory has also been used to show lovely mosaics.

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Arabian Furnishings  

If you’re into numerous furnishings, then Arabian style isn’t for you. The chief decorations inside Arabian dwellings are ottomans and wooden sofas. Add some carpets and fluffy pillows, a low coffee table and form them into a hexagon or octagon and you’re done.

Arabian furniture is all about wooden backs, legs and arm rests. Geometric ornaments are common in Arabic culture so go ahead use them on your storage shelves, chests and screens. Use ornate wardrobes and wall niche with doors.

Carpets must also be used in ornamentation. Use dishes, pitchers, bowls and other metallic or ceramic wares.

It is also common to find a lot of low seats or even just some pillows all over the floor. This can be attributed to an era when Arabs lived a nomadic lifestyle. During those times, families had to sit inside their tents, hence, the low seating areas.

Touches of bronze and gold, even silver, are another feature of the Arabian style. Give importance to colors like indigo and deep reds.

Add a lantern or two that are made of filigree metals. This will allow the light to shine through while still providing interesting shadow patterns on your ceilings and walls.

Arabian Characteristics: In a Nutshell

  • Ornate prints
  • Luxurious colors on silk fabrics
  • Persian rugs
  • Lamp shades
  • Curved walls for a more majestic look
  • A number of lights that illuminate just enough
  • Firm furniture with bold and round features
  • Golden details and decorative plates, plus heavy curtains
  • Colors are bold such as dark reds, brown tones and claret.

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