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The Classic Interiors: Elegance at Its Best

Tuesday, May 22nd, 2018

Marge Carson Living Room Ionia Cocktail Table IN02

Also known as Classicism, classic interior design first came into existence during the 17th-19th centuries. It manifested in many different aspects including music, art, literature, and architecture.

If you want to use a classic style in your home, then you’d have to know how to go about with noble decoration, geometric shapes, and utilitarian frills if any.

History of Classicism

Classicism is believed to have originated in France during the 17th century. It then quickly spread through Europe and became the dominant design for a span of two centuries. The artists then were so inspired by the Greek and Roman art which both showed clarity, rigor, yet at the same time, a different kind of simplicity.

Classicism has strict rules but it still managed to influence other nations throughout the globe. When the style found its way to England, it became a representation of rationalism as well as precision. When Catherine the Great ruled, Classicism began to conquer even the land of Russia. The style then was still dignified, full of harmony but also practiced reasonable restraint.

In Russia, architectural structures such as the one in Petersburg showed the exact taste of the nobles of the Russian empire.

Russian Classicism was a trend of its own with its unique architecture during the 18th and 19th centuries proving to the world just how different their style was. This movement allowed the birth of eclecticism, too, which mixed different classic styles during that time.

Photos of classical interiors show the extreme orderliness, respectability, solidity, and predictability of this style. This design just proves that it is totally independent of other fashion trends.

The subdued elegance of the Marge Carson Living Room Ionia Lounge Chair ION41 is what makes it the perfect living room piece for a classic home.

Classic Style Is Subdued

Classic houses are attractive because of their subdued color palette and their royal dignity. Light pastels are commonly seen. You won’t see any bright hues as the shades are all neutral and calm. The overall classical interior actually even has a soothing effect.

Colors that are permitted include cream, olive, beige, shades of gold, and light green. These are fairly common in the furniture, finishing materials, and textiles. Shades of brown (especially the natural and warm wood color) are highly permissible. When using wood tones, though, make sure that you don’t make the room look gloomy. For the textiles and upholstery, use sand, blue-green, and blue hues.

You will recognize classic interior design also when you find discreet columns, cornices, and clear-outlined doors and windows. You will also typically find marble fireplaces with the paired furnishings in rectangular form. The presence of stucco, arches, columns and full columns is also apparent.

The rooms come with niches that are decorated with ancient statues. Talk of Greek gods such as Athena or Zeus himself. The ornaments are just as classical, one can typically find laurel or oak leaves.

These days, classic homes are often owned by the wealthiest people who are confident with their style preference. They are also people who prefer the age-old look that no other style can offer. They are the ones who want the type of style that lingers.

Classic homes also do not sport anything cheap. All the materials that are used are unique and natural and, therefore, pricey. Pilasters are made of marble as are the columns. The stucco is handmade which is totally different from the classic imitations that are practically seen everywhere.

The classical ceiling is often white and decorated with stucco friezes.

As for the classic lighting, you should illuminate the rooms with no less than crystal chandeliers. Be sure to install these strictly at the center of the ceiling. This is so the light is evenly distributed throughout the room.

Display lamps that are made of expensive glass or transparent stones.

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What Makes Victorian, Victorian?

Wednesday, February 24th, 2016

 

FFDM Antebellum Collection

FFDM Antebellum Collection

Owning a Victorian home is not everyone’s privilege. To others, this is just a dream; to you, however, it may not be as dreamy especially when you discover that as ancient as the design are the roofing, wirings and windows. ‘Thinking of remodelling your Victorian home?

Most of the time, remodelling projects is not simple. Revamping an old home can be time consuming. Before you jump into modernizing your beautiful historical home, you may want to speak to some of the preservation societies first.

Owning a Victorian dwelling is intriguing and a lifelong journey for some. Such a home is full of character and works of craftsmen that – even when it’s already old – it can still catch home buyers’ attention.

Victorian Characteristics

Victorian homes were built somewhere between 1837 till 1901. This was the era when Queen Victoria still ruled. There are some people, however, who have also typified Victorian architecture to be Edwardian as well. This is what takes the period all the way to 1910.

Figure 1FFDM’s Vintage Classics

Edwardian and Victorian housing dominate the British suburbs today, for instance, the City Centre Conservation Areas and the Peterborough’s Park. Edwardian homes are seen to be less in value when compared to Victorian though most of their features tend to be similar.

FFDM Vintage Classics Collection

FFDM Vintage Classics Collection

The traits that separate Victorian homes from the rest are –

Terraces. As more and more country people went to the urban areas, Victorian homes were then built in terraces where the kitchen is at the back while the garden is both at the front and rear. There are no garages since Victorian homes were built during those times when there were still no cars. These days, the gardens are often removed in favor of the parking slot.

Patterned bricks. The advent of the railway brought about easier transport for bricks and other such materials. It is because of this that patterned brick became quite popular. The Flemish Brick bond is often used in many Victorian houses. This is characterized by alternating headers or bricks whose ends appear on the face of the house’s wall. Stretchers,  on the other hand, are the long sides of bricks appearing on the face of the wall.

Barge boards. These are the decorative wooden panels that are found on the gable ends of buildings. This is that triangular portion of the pitched roof. Look for these sections because they point directly to the Victorian period when such decorative panels were popular.

Bay and sash window. It was in 1832 when the plate glass arrived. This resulted into larger windows with six or four panes and a vertical sliding sash window, a single glazing bar right down the middle.

It was also fashionable to have a three-sided bay window. A ground floor bay window usually had a roof of its own.

Decorated roof line. Slate roofs are quite common among Victorian houses. Thanks to the wonders of the railway, the trains were able to haul slate and deliver at longer distances. Finials are often seen on the ridge and gable ends. Roofs also have ridge tiles that are made of terracotta. Whether it is glazed fired clay or unglazed, the color used is often red.

Stained glass. One of the most exciting design materials is stained glass. It originated from the Gothic revival and was popular during the Victorian period. Mosaic stained glass even replaced painting in many homes. These are often found on top of windows or on doors.

Floor tiles. Most Victorian homes come with geometric terracotta tiles especially on the porch areas. The ground floor is also often made with these materials. These tiles come in natural colors such as brown and red, dark blue, off-white and black.

A fireplace. What is a Victorian home without this? This is used to keep the house warm and is often surrounded by marble, stone or wood. Terracotta chimney pots are also quite common.

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High Drama: The Secrets to Glamorous Interior Design

Tuesday, February 9th, 2016

 

What could spell glamour more than this sturdy table from FFDM's Raylen Vineyard Collection?

What could spell glamour more than this sturdy table from FFDM’s Raylen Vineyard Collection?

Many homeowners feel a sense of accomplishment when they look at their places of residence. Each one of them wants their condos or bungalows to look their best, one that represents who they are, what they do and what kind of lifestyles they live. These people often look for things that inspire with regard to interior design. Of course, there are magazines, books and the internet to provide them with design guidelines. Looking at the glitz and glamour displayed on the pages of these interior design media, you might think that they are too magazine-y or that they are unattainable. With the right set of hands, though, there are ways that you can replicate those glamorous home designs.

Razzle Dazzle ‘Em

You’d be surprised at how simple it actually takes for you to make your home stand out. So where should you begin?

The fundamental in creating a glamorous home is to have a knack for organization. Being organized and clean in your home will make your dwelling place a haven, not just another structure. From now on, make sure that the surfaces are all clean, glass and metal furniture and frills are polished, and your accessories are up-to-date.

Know how to rotate the collections that you have – when it’s wintertime, bring out your darker, texture-rich furnishings and accessories. There are different color palettes for every season so be able to find out what palette works on a certain season.

Glamorous living also means always being inspired. This does not automatically mean embracing the latest trends. Being glamorous entails class so know which designs are considered classic.

Hickory White Bedroom Hall Eglomise Mirror 903-42

Hickory White Bedroom Hall Eglomise Mirror 903-42

Glam also means knowing how to put a sparkle in your place. Bling and sparkle do not mean the same thing, though, so be careful. A thing that sparkles is shimmering and lovely while a bling it over-the-top.

Through patience, you can find sparkling items such as crystal pieces, gold accents and such. Those shiny metallic candelabra will also look perfect in a glamorous setting.

Colors that are glamorous are blue and white in porcelain; velvet stuff, purples, greens, especially gold. Black and white, when used in moderation, can also be glamorous. Neutrals in gray or weathered woods complete with gilded details evoke a French feel. Deep gray in wool and tweed can also be paired with deep woods to show sophistication.

While shopping, be sure to search for quality items. Do not look for cheap items as these will not give you the endurance that a glamorous home requires. Instead, invest in timeless pieces of wood, metals and rich fabrics. Add luxury to your home as you put trims and silk panels.

But have you ever wondered what makes something evoke glamour?

Become a collector with this Century Furniture Living Room Console SF5424.

Become a collector with this Century Furniture Living Room Console SF5424.

A glamorous thing looks and feels special. If you have seen the designer pieces on clothes such as Christian Dior or Vera Wang, then you know that there is a certain aura that befits them.

Metals can also be glamorous as are bright and colorful pieces. Black and white can also evoke glamour, sophistication and richness. These are the pieces that are worth splurging on. Touch the furniture and you will know that master artisans worked with them. The draperies and carpets also come in rich textures and patterns. Now these are the very reasons why you should not look for things that are trendy when shopping for glamorous items. Think of it in this manner – will these items still be around after 20 years?

There, you’ve got your answer.

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The Tudor Home: Where History and Culture Flourish

Monday, February 1st, 2016

 

The Tudor monarchs, according to history, were able to bring comparative peace and prosperity throughout England, Ireland and Wales. The wealth of many landowners was invested in buildings. Theirs was a moment of cultural bursts and classical architecture revival for Italian style. The Tudor style is a class of its own. Europeans had a moment when gothic was at the center of their style. The perpendicular style has broken away from all this. The Tudors were the ones who developed fan vaulting (evident in the Gloucester Cathedral cloisters). Now let’s go to a dating feature known as the Tudor Rose. This is a red rose badge with a white rose badge within. This signified the union of Henry VII to Edward IV’s daughter. This is now a decorative piece that is used to signify posh and sophistication to the highest levels. Renaissance features can also be seen inside Tudor dwellings. These features are confined to the wealthy and the elite members of society then. Henry enthusiastically built Italianate motifs. Then came Elizabethan homes where old homes were torn down only to be built anew. Most homeowners were then yearning for improvement as that was the great period of building. If you have ever seen those narrow yet all townhouses complete with borough walls, then these are the homes of artisans and merchants who built their homes slowly through the years. Homes of the wealthiest members of the society are often built with huge windows and decorative chimneys. Glass was then used in Elizabethan homes with glittering glazing designs. The most elaborate fireplaces are set up and ceilings were slowly decorated with strapwork. Tudor Is Symmetry Symmetrical plans will always be favored in Tudor settings. Otherwise, Renaissance in classical details appears so then you can find fireplace, doors, and columns. Round-headed arches and niches together with all the other features of Tudor style were revived during the Victorian period. Tudor may be an old fashioned style but it can become a part of modern living, too. The styles come originally from the UK during the 15th to the 16th centuries and are now a huge part of tourist attractions. Genuine Tudor design can now be recreated but your place doesn’t have to look like a tourist spot, though. Only a few are lucky to live inside a genuine Tudor dwelling so for the rest of the world, repros are the answers. Mock Tudor generally refers to black and white semi timbering on the facade of buildings. Interior design, however, is much more distinct. If you are careful enough in making your design decisions, then you can even recreate the Medieval era of trade, arts, crafts and intellectual awakening right inside your home. There is no architectural detail that is more recognizable under the Tudor style than the iconic half timber structures. The exterior of homes can be laden with stucco, wood or stone. Imitate this same style by exposing the very structure of your home. Gable roofs are also common which give the homes their gingerbread appeal. Modern-day Tudor replicates the genuine Tudor Dynasty through architecture and interior design revivals. If you haven’t yet, you should install tall, narrow windows with small panes. Modern day cladding is acceptable such as flagstone, brick and stucco. As for the outdoor landscaping, be sure to have manicured hedges, brick walkways, fencing and pool houses. These amenities should set you apart from the neighbors but in a nice way. The Old World style can also be brought inside the kitchen through wrought iron and wood combinations in furniture pieces. Custom islands and wrought-iron lighting fixtures are also a huge part of Tudor interiors. Are you ready to take on this unique style right inside your home?

This lovely Hooker Furniture Living Room Melange Gianna Chest 638-50066 fuses the Old World and the New in a seamless manner.

The Tudor monarchs, according to history, were able to bring comparative peace and prosperity throughout England, Ireland and Wales. The wealth of many landowners was invested in buildings. Theirs was a moment of cultural bursts and classical architecture revival for Italian style. The Tudor style is a class of its own.

Europeans had a moment when gothic was at the center of their style. The perpendicular style has broken away from all this. The Tudors were the ones who developed fan vaulting (evident in the Gloucester Cathedral cloisters).

Now let’s go to a dating feature known as the Tudor Rose. This is a red rose badge with a white rose badge within. This signified the union of Henry VII to Edward IV’s daughter. This is now a decorative piece that is used to signify posh and sophistication to the highest levels.

Renaissance features can also be seen inside Tudor dwellings. These features are confined to the wealthy and the elite members of society then. Henry enthusiastically built Italianate motifs.

Then came Elizabethan homes where old homes were torn down only to be built anew. Most homeowners were then yearning for improvement as that was the great period of building. If you have ever seen those narrow yet all townhouses complete with borough walls, then these are the homes of artisans and merchants who built their homes slowly through the years.

Homes of the wealthiest members of the society are often built with huge windows and decorative chimneys. Glass was then used in Elizabethan homes with glittering glazing designs. The most elaborate fireplaces are set up and ceilings were slowly decorated with strapwork.

Hooker Furniture Living Room Melange Gianna Chest 638-50066 comes with a feminine pair of cabriole legs but with a masculine Old World design.

Hooker Furniture Living Room Melange Gianna Chest 638-50066 comes with a feminine pair of cabriole legs but with a masculine Old World design.

Tudor Is Symmetry

Symmetrical plans will always be favored in Tudor settings. Otherwise, Renaissance in classical details appears so then you can find fireplace, doors, and columns. Round-headed arches and niches together with all the other features of Tudor style were revived during the Victorian period.

Tudor may be an old fashioned style but it can become a part of modern living, too. The styles come originally from the UK during the 15th to the 16th centuries and are now a huge part of tourist attractions.

Genuine Tudor design can now be recreated but your place doesn’t have to look like a tourist spot, though. Only a few are lucky to live inside a genuine Tudor dwelling so for the rest of the world, repros are the answers.

Mock Tudor generally refers to black and white semi timbering on the facade of buildings. Interior design, however, is much more distinct. If you are careful enough in making your design decisions, then you can even recreate the Medieval era of trade, arts, crafts and intellectual awakening right inside your home.

There is no architectural detail that is more recognizable under the Tudor style than the iconic half timber structures. The exterior of homes can be laden with stucco, wood or stone. Imitate this same style by exposing the very structure of your home.

Hooker Furniture Bedroom Rhapsody Urn Pedestal Nightstand 5070-90015 comes with classic designs and a rustic finish.

Hooker Furniture Bedroom Rhapsody Urn Pedestal Nightstand 5070-90015 comes with classic designs and a rustic finish.

Gable roofs are also common which give the homes their gingerbread appeal. Modern-day Tudor replicates the genuine Tudor Dynasty through architecture and interior design revivals. If you haven’t yet, you should install tall, narrow windows with small panes. Modern day cladding is acceptable such as flagstone, brick and stucco.

As for the outdoor landscaping, be sure to have manicured hedges, brick walkways, fencing and pool houses. These amenities should set you apart from the neighbors but in a nice way.

The Old World style can also be brought inside the kitchen through wrought iron and wood combinations in furniture pieces. Custom islands and wrought-iron lighting fixtures are also a huge part of Tudor interiors.

Are you ready to take on Tudor design, a unique style right inside your home?

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Shabby Chic Means Stylish

Monday, January 25th, 2016

 

This FFDM Protege chair will be a lovely 'mismatch' to another neutral-colored seating piece.

This FFDM Protege chair will be a lovely ‘mismatch’ to another neutral-colored seating piece.

If your heart jumps each time you see a condominium unit or a townhouse, then know that you have to prepare to live in a place that is cozy. Foregoing the idea of an open space plan is not an easy decision to make but should you sign up for this kind of home, then it’s time to look for the right design that is most suitable for it. ‘Ever considered the shabby chic style?

Okay, so you have saved every bit of hard-earned money and have sacrificed on shopping and travel – what now?

Old vs. New

Carefully plan what theme you will use before you move in to your new condominium or townhouse unit. One of the most utilized, these days, when it comes to limited space is the shabby chic concept.

Rachel Ashwell popularized this stylish interior design concept to focus on comfort, highlight the beauty of seemingly time-worn furniture and objects, and for the homeowner to appreciate practical living.

This concept can even guide you in mixing traditional and new pieces. Choose from our catalogue and find the right furniture, accessories and lighting fixtures.

If you are thinking of buying second-hand furniture, think again. It is much better to have new furniture given a distressed appeal than to take the risk of buying the damaged ones. Bargain shops sell at the lowest prices but you are never guaranteed of the quality of the stuff that you are buying. So, it is much better to invest in a few quality pieces than to have different sets of furniture only to end up spending more money on repairs.

Coming from the Ancestry Collection of FFDM, this light-colored drawer is sure to be a big hit inside any shabby chic setting.

Coming from the Ancestry Collection of FFDM, this light-colored drawer is sure to be a big hit inside any shabby chic setting.

Let’s Decorate

The shabby chic style is basically minimalist and is almost synonymous with white. You may paint the walls of your home with flat white, pearl, cream, or any shade of white. Apart from having white(ish) walls, take note that you also need to have a few white furniture and accent pieces. These will add a distinct as well as intimate feel to your home. White furnishings are also easy to clean using your regular household bleach.

Now, which room would you like to design first?

First, there’s the living room. Carry the modern facade from the outside to this part of your home. Your condominium or townhouse unit will surely have a rustic yet cozy appeal once you start bringing in the lovely furniture and accent pieces.

The living room must have a clean yet non-antiseptic feel. It should be minimalist but with a few accent pieces to boost such as a lovely chest, a coffee table, console table, or some shelves.

In the dining room, be sure to showcase a table that was aged to sit perfectly in this important space. Have a Victorian couch rest against the white wall. Wicker chairs would look lovely when placed with white curtains as backdrop.

Now to the kitchen: have the furniture and appliances in neutral colors. This is so they won’t clash with the condo or townhouse’s overall appeal.

If you are one of those who prefer to have a home office, then use a white desk as much as you can. Now couple the lovely white desk with a unique accent chair and some neutral shelves.

Should you still have space for one guest room, then make sure that this room is just as cozy as the rest of your home. Use the same shade on the walls and on the furniture that will be placed there. Since the bed is pretty much the focal point, then take time to choose the ones that you will invest in for the master bedroom as well as this room.

Lastly, with your shabby chic bathroom, ascertain that you do not miss out on an ornate mirror that will bring character to this room. Find one that has a wooden frame that matches the stylish theme that you have chosen.

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Old Homes, Timeless Design Concepts

Wednesday, January 20th, 2016

 

What would be more perfect for the dining room than this table from the Antebellum Collection of FFDM?

What would be more perfect for the dining room in your old home than this table from the Antebellum Collection of FFDM?

Do you know the old saying that old homes have souls? If this is the case, then you really have to find time to redesign an old home (if you happen to live in one). Interior design, after all, is not all about the creation of a new residence. If you are one of the few that are blessed to own a house that has already earned its own character, then it’s high time to bring out its best features.

Hide All Imperfections

One of the best ways to conceal imperfections is to paint over them. So go ahead and paint the ceilings and walls. Be sure to highlight the walls, trim and ceiling.

What makes people fall in love with older homes is how they speak of a different era. Back then, there was a certain level of personality and polish that are required for finishing touches. Simple coats of paint can preserve and highlight beautiful architectural details.

Designers typically paint a single color on the trim, walls and ceiling. The trim has a slightly higher gloss so that it subtly calls for attention.  Once this palette is already in place, find a bold shade such as dark gray to paint your doors. These will serve as architectural highlights in your home.

Paint the trim work in neutral contrasting shade if it is still in great shape. This is a great way to show it off while being consistent in every room throughout your place. Applying the same paint on the ceiling can help fuse the look together for a more stately and architectural appeal.

Hooker Furniture Bedroom True Vintage Arched Mirror comes in a light wood finish and an elegantly aged driftwood finish.

Hooker Furniture Bedroom True Vintage Arched Mirror comes in a light wood finish and an elegantly aged driftwood finish.

Still on your home’s vintage trim, make sure to use in-window shade rather than hanging drapes. This is so you can leave the trim exposed for everyone to enjoy. These shades also add a modern touch in a subtle way, one that would not steal the integrity of your original home.

If, however, you have awkward looking windows, then go ahead and use those drapes. A lot of older homes tend to have quirky windows. A wall of drapery should hide such windows.

Another beauty that you can use in designing old homes is the installation of stained glass. If you do not already have them, invest in this type of glass which will make simple white walls appear more stimulating.

Embrace Contemporary Furnishing

Universal Furniture Bedroom Santa Rosa Poster Bed Queen 313280B at McCreerys Home Furnishings

Universal Furniture Bedroom Santa Rosa Poster Bed Queen 313280B at McCreerys Home Furnishings

If you want your traditional home to have an edgy, modern-day feel, then make sure that you invest in contemporary furniture pieces. These are those simple pieces with clean lines. Find rich textures, soft colors and linear pieces. Going radical when it comes to modernity is not the way to go, though. Make sure that you are able to control both contemporary and traditional concepts in such a way that they won’t fight. Take for instance the lovely Universal Furniture Bedroom Santa Rosa Poster Bed (313280B) which brings together both contemporary and traditional concepts so beautifully. This queen size bed is crafted using birch veneers and hardwood. It comes in two-tone finish namely the dark vintage and the lighter heirloom tone. Its aged birch veneer is the right touch to any traditional setting. Add to this the antiqued metal, crown molding, as well as overhanging tops, and you’ve achieved sophistication.

This lovely bed also comes in California king size.

Still on mixing modern and traditional periods, another way to add a modern feel is to place appliances such as TV, a computer or a plush sofa inside the room. Modern accessories will also make a huge difference in old homes so don’t be afraid to add in a dash of modernity.

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Mid-Century Interior Design: Beauty in Simplicity

Wednesday, January 13th, 2016

 

American Leather Living Room Chair MSL-CHS-ST is perfect for any Mid-Century interior because of its clean lines and natural hue. John Mascheroni designed this beautiful piece giving emphasis to mid-century modern streamlined edges fused with a wooden cross base.

American Leather Living Room Chair MSL-CHS-ST is perfect for any Mid-Century interior because of its clean lines and natural hue. John Mascheroni designed this beautiful piece giving emphasis to mid-century modern streamlined edges fused with a wooden cross base.

If you are trying to achieve the mid-century interior design in your home, then it is best to understand what aspects to mix.

Furniture to be used under this category is characterized by simple, clean lines. Teak and other wood pieces are most welcome. Find mid-century tables and pair them with contemporary chairs. Have teal walls as bold backdrop and you have just attained the epitome of this design.

Never make the mistake of hiding wood details, instead, allow them to shine. Neutral-colored walls will look great with fabrics in soft hues. Find handcrafted furniture and accessories to complete the living room mid-century look.

Mid-Century Is Timeless

McCreery’s Home Furnishings provides furniture pieces that have been thoughtfully crafted by master artisans, hence, they are the perfect classic pieces if you are looking into creating the mid-century habitat.

Table lamps are the right lighting pieces for that low-slung furniture. The curvy base of the Maitland Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Table Lamp 1700-427 will look great in a vintage-looking nightstand.

Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Table Lamp 1700-427 is a spell-binding addition to your living room or bedroom.

Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Table Lamp 1700-427 is a spell-binding addition to your living room or bedroom.

Natural lighting can also bathe your black and white-themed living room. Draw back any curtains to let in the sunlight. The black and white color scheme is best for the mid-century style as it keeps the areas looking clutter-free. This is achieved by highlighting space and light.

After considering lighting, it’s time to turn your attention to focal points. Retro lighting can be an effective focal point. Chandeliers can easily stand out against pinstripe walls. Take the retro vibe up another notch by also adding vintage art pieces. Search for striking wall hangings inspired by circles and squares.

Since mid-century spells timelessness, the use of vintage colors is also encouraged. It’s time to start loving avocado hues, also mustard, tangerine and other ‘60s colors. Just be careful in your use of these colors or your place would come across as a movie set.

For more ‘60s inspired pieces, decorate with a coffee table with a hint of gold. Add glass or sculptural accents, these will pop against white walls.

Mid-century also means showcasing superior pieces so, it is best to paint the walls white or any neutral palette. The rich, graphic patterns may appear on upholstered furniture pieces, throws, or on the textured wallpapers.

The Maitland-Smith Accessories Bamboo Cast Brass Bar Cart 3020-042 can carry your vintage glassware and cocktail shakers.

The Maitland-Smith Accessories Bamboo Cast Brass Bar Cart 3020-042 can carry your vintage glassware and cocktail shakers.

Emphasize the cocktail culture by making use of a bar cart while the rest of the room features streamlined seats and traditional lamps. If you are more traditional, then use a glass and bronze coffee table.

For those who embrace the contemporary culture more than retro, it is acceptable to have at least one mid-century piece to add warmth to the environment. For instance, the marriage of red and white inside a living room can have wood and glass table as a focal point.

Would you want to have contrasting seat cushions? Add these to a wood swivel and you can spice up your mid-century home office.

Mid-century interior design and modern styles, as opposed to common notion, can actually mix. The super clean lines of both styles can be the chief characteristics of mid-century modern furnishings. This is the right combination for those stark industrial pieces. This is the ideal style pairing for those people who prefer urban loft living.

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The Vintage Charm: Creating a Nostalgic Mood

Monday, January 11th, 2016

 

All the wood furniture pieces on this articles come from FFDM's Vintage Classics Collection

All the wood furniture pieces on this articles come from FFDM’s Vintage Classics Collection

 

If you have a passion for collecting World War I and post-World War II decor, then you are a vintage connoisseur. Being familiar with this interior design means you have the same taste as your parents or grandparents – and this is not a bad thing at all.

Anything vintage sparks nostalgic feelings, however, this style is not solely for reminiscence. It can offer a lot of style mixtures but, mostly, it is typified through wooden textures.

One surprising thing about vintage interiors is that it is never linear. Decor pieces can be from different places and times. Vintage is primarily about the creation of a comfortable and homey living area. Your creativity will surely be piqued as you find out what constitutes this style.

FFDM Vintage Classics Collection

FFDM Vintage Classics Collection

 

Furniture – A Major Vintage Element

There are many elements in every vintage interior but the most important is the furniture. Furniture designs vary through cultures and periods. You might not be able to obtain the original period pieces but you can now easily look for pieces with classic designs.
Wood is a major material used in many of the most beautiful chairs, tables, drawers, cabinets, and desks. Come and visit our shop and you will never run out of choices as you set your eyes on various wooden pieces.

This lovely bedside from FFDM will look fabulous inside your vintage-themed bedroom. Bring the same charm to your dining area by investing in a glass-fronted display case, perfect for displaying your collectibles and tableware.

Chairs that are classic in form are welcome, just be sure to focus on your color choice. The goal is to remain muted (in terms of color) with a few flower variations to visually stimulate. Flowers should not be too bright that they already overpower the lovely furniture that you have devoted your time to setting up.

Vintage style is also great with patterned wallpapers and handmade fabrics. If you think these are a little too much for you, then fuse it with other modern appliances, even other designs. Some homeowners have experimented with contemporary laidback interiors and vintage decor and furniture. Wooden furniture may be paired with contemporary appliances, other colors and textures. While you do this, just allow memories and nostalgia to guide you so you get the right inspirations.

VINTAGE CHARM. ffdm Vintage Classics 3A Few Vintage Rules

While you are not limited with regard to your creativity, you must not forget that vintage is anything that looks and feels classic. There are still a few rules that need to be satisfied in order to stay within the bounds of this style –

  • First, as you search for vintage furniture and decorative pieces, always think about the materials that were used in the past. Of course, it would be wrong to use plastic. Instead, there was much of wrought iron, wood, copper, leather, porcelain and galvanized metal.

Materials that you pick will decide the overall tone and mood of the room. Wicker baskets and wooden crates, for instance, would be perfect as storage containers.

  • Premium is the way to go. Now what does this mean?

Vintage remains to be one of the most admired interior designs in the world because there are simply people who do not appreciate the throw away culture. Mass production is not equal to legacy pieces. If you want to pass down furniture to your descendants, then you have to invest in sturdy, classic pieces.

Again, one can never say amply that you should veer away from anything made of plastic.

  • The third rule is to make use of focal points. The basics are these – for your living room, it usually is your seating area. In the bedroom, the focal point will always be the bed (or the bedding), in the bathroom, it is a lovely vanity (or a combination of mirror and sink), and in the kitchen, it can be the kitchen island or a dining table.
  • Lastly, never clutter the room with minute decor items. Vintage design is all about frivolity and timelessness – keep that in mind.

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