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Inspiration for Functional Decorating with Scandinavian Designs

February 6, 2017

This article is contribution by Keith Gregory. Keith is an amateur design and decorating aficionado — he blogs about interior design, home improvement, and real estate matters at DeveloperCube.com

We all love Scandinavian design for its simplicity – clean, neat lines, no clutter. If you scroll through images of Scandinavian décor, you’ll come away with a sense of calm. Then reality sets in and you remember that you don’t live in a clutter-free, Nordic den with perfect lighting. Instead of firing your friends and family and hiring a design set manager for your living room, learn the art of functional decorating. Your most commonly used belongings can become your décor and you’ll find it easier to keep clutter from taking over!

Living Room

Image source: home-designing.com

You can always use Scandinavian furniture brands as a true inspiration when it comes to living room options to fit your Nordic styling. For example, by choosing a sectional instead of recliners and chairs, you can get the most out of the space in your living room. You’ll get plenty of seating without the extra visual clutter.

Image source: decoholic.org

Most ottomans that pair with sectionals have additional storage hidden inside. This creates the perfect storage for the belongings, such as blankets and toys that you want nearby but without the clutter. For example, a modern stressless oval ottoman that converts from a storage unit and footrest to a coffee table can prove to be a great investment, since it can alternate between providing an extra storage, extra seating, and serving as a coffee table.

Home Office

The home office doesn’t need to be cluttered with additional decorative pieces. Keep the things you use most often in plain sight and easy-to-reach. If you spend a lot of time in your home office, an ergonomically designed office chair is essential.

Image source: decoist.com

Don’t have an extra room for an office? Designate space in your living room to become the central processing zone in your home. Sound a little dry? It doesn’t have to be. Choose a wall where you can place a small table and put up a few wall organizers and a bulletin board. Having an organization system in place will be pleasing to the eye and keep paperwork from traveling all over your home.

The Bedroom

Image source: home-designing.com

If you love Nordic design, you’re probably the type of person who needs cleanliness and simplicity to relax. The key to keeping your bedroom in optimal condition is having proper storage. What clutters your room? Extra blankets? Clothes? Shoes? All the things you drop when you come home at the end of the day? Select furnishings that provide extra storage for the things that clutter up your room or simply change up your organization system and habits. Keeping things minimalistic and fuss-free are some of the key points when it comes to Nordic trends.

Image 6 source: michianahouseandhome.com

An ottoman at the foot of the bed is a beautiful embellishment as well as a storage zone. Store extra blankets, shoes, or seasonal clothes where you can reach them as needed. If you don’t have under bed storage drawers, you can always repurpose some of your old suitcases and even decorative boxes.

You can easily find tons of inspiration from looking to our friends in the Scandinavia — steal their simple, minimalist yet elegant styling when you’re looking for a new design or look for your home or apartment.

Feature image source: Home-designing.com

How to Introduce Bright Color into a Neutral Space

February 1, 2017

Stella Van Lane

0 Comments

Although decorating with nice, soft and natural colors is always the safest and probably the chicest way to go, sometimes you just want to spice things up a little bit, right? But, some people are usually afraid of going bold. Don’t be. Here is how you can easily incorporate bright, bold and strong colors into your neutral space without making everything tacky. The safest and probably the best option is to start slowly by adding various accessories. Here are some you could consider.

Rug

Rugs are the best and coolest accessories for every room. Besides screaming style, they also provide you with a warm fuzzy place for your feet, which makes buying a rug a total win-win scenario. Oh, and let’s not forget about their special role: hiding floor flaws.
If you want to spice things up a little bit in your neutral light space with light floors, opt for an area rug in a bold color such as red, orange, royal blue or purple. If your floor is dark, get a lighter shade such as champagne white or Pantone Greenery shade.

A group of accessories

Image source: www.imanada.com

When you add a group of like-colored elements, it gives the room a huge impact. For example, you can add some bar chairs in the same color, a set of cobalt vases or something like that.

Painting

Paintings are a perfect choice for those who like their furniture and accessories minimalistic, but still want to add some color. Add artwork and photographs to your space. This especially goes for that all-white places, because the paintings will instantly give it that gallery-like impression and a perfect impact.

Pillows

They are giving you the best of both worlds, for sure. First of all, if you choose your pillow set correctly, the entire room will seem way more elegant, and second, they are providing you with comfort. Make sure that they’re soft enough as well as big enough. The perfect choice would be those fluffy down-filled 22-inch ones because, the larger they are, the better they look.

How to?

Image source: www.homecaprice.com

80/20 rule

Basically, the 80 is for neutral, while 20 is for bold colors. It means that you actually don’t have to add that much in order to create an impact. If you don’t think it is enough, just remember the red lipstick. You know how small our lips are when it comes to our body proportions, right? Yet, our entire look changes once we change the color of our lipstick.

Warm vs. Cool

Before doing anything, you have to determine: do you like cool colors (blue, purple, green, grey etc.) better or the warm ones (reds, yellows, oranges etc.)? Once you do this, make sure you’re using them separately. Keep things simple all the time. Mixing cool colors with warm ones can go wrong in no time, and it is extremely complicated. You don’t need that much stress in your life.

Darks and lights

Image source: www.ghk.h-cdn.co

While light colors open up the space, dark ones are making it appear much smaller. The key is in making a balance which will “deceive” our eyes. Vary the use of strong and dark colors from room to room to make a nice contrast between them. Also, make sure that your space itself has a great lighting. Not only light opens up the rooms, but it also makes every color seem a lot stronger and nicer.

Painting walls – yes or no?

First of all, you should know that painting walls is an exhausting and expensive process. Not to mention that painting every single wall is going to end up looking awful and make the space look smaller, and believe it or not – dirty. Instead, paint just one accent wall with a bold color of your choice. It is going to be far more effective.
That would be it. We hope our advice helped, and that you will have fun while decorating.

Feature image credit: Dlqilinshuma.com

4 Important Qualities That Make Vinyl Windows the Right Choice

December 22, 2016

cooper klein

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You have decided new windows are essential. What remains to be determined is the type of materials you would prefer to use. There’s always the option of going with wooden windows again, but why not look into the other options? Here are some of the more important qualities that come with the installation of vinyl windows.

Virtually Scratch Free

Did you know that vinyl is durable enough to resist scratching? That’s important since it means your new windows in Hamilton will look new for many more years. Little to no scratching will help make maintaining the windows a simpler task and in general help the home look nicer on the inside and outside.

No Painting

How often did you have to paint the old windows? Many homeowners find that the sashes and frames need to be at least touched up every couple of years. If you are not the type who enjoys painting, seeing the paint on a window sill begin to crack and chip will not be a welcome sight. Things get even less enjoyable when you think about the time and money you are about to invest in applying a fresh coat of paint.

When you decide to install vinyl Calgary windows instead of investing in new wooden windows, you can put the paint brush away. The color of the vinyl does not chip or fade as the years pass. Instead of having to paint, all you will need to do is use a little soap and water to remove any dirt or grime that accumulates. Once that is done, the windows will look great for a long time before you need to wash them again.

Multi-Glazed Instead of Double-Glazed

Did you know that vinyl windows are typically multi-glazed rather than double-glazed? This does not interfere with the ability to look out of your windows. What it will do is offer more protection from the heat of summer and the cold of winter. When matched with higher-quality insulation in the walls and attic, vinyl windows make it much less expensive to heat and cool your home.

Depending on the square footage in your home and the amount of shade the home received from nearby trees, you could end up saving a lot of money on those monthly bills. It won’t take long to find something that you can do with all the money those windows save in the way of reduced utility costs.

Lasts for Decades

There are examples of vinyl windows holding up well for as long as five decades. During that time, you don’t have to be concerned about the windows warping or rotting due to exposure. Vinyl also doesn’t rust, so there is no need to be concerned about the material weakening for quite a few years. Thanks to the durability of vinyl, you can expect the windows to look great and operate properly for a long time.

Talk with your contractor about vinyl windows and how they hold up in comparison to other window options. You will find that choosing vinyl makes sense in terms of cost, savings in the years to come, and appearance.

Decor

How to Layer Rugs Like a Pro

September 23, 2016

Chloe Taylor

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Rugs are one of the easiest ways to add appeal to a room. For a long time now, they have been the décor feature that doesn’t change a lot. Sure, there were changes in terms of design and shape, but we can safely say we haven’t seen something new for years. At least not until 2016 when the trend of layering rugs took the world by storm. A few years ago, this idea might have sounded silly, but hear us out while we defend it now: it can add depth and texture to the space, effortlessly create a focal point, and add contrast which makes the space more vivid. So, if you have understood why, let us move on to the how.

Define Areas

If you have a single large or even wall-to-wall carpet, you might find the space looking unfinished and empty, especially when it comes to large room with different functions, such as living room with sitting area, home office, etc. Highlight the different areas with area rugs. A cowhide, for example, would be an interesting choice.

Make It Pop

Image source: onekingslane.com

Tired of your old boring room? No problem, just add two highly-contrasted rugs on top of each other and you will get the unexpected detail you’ve been searching for. The contrast may come in the form of patterns (e.g. stripes and geometric patterns), or in the form of contrasting colors (e.g. blue and red). The best thing about it is that if you want to change the look a bit, you can just replace one of the rugs.

Add Texture

A room without different textures seems flat, sterile and it reflects the overly modernist, almost futuristic feel. If you want your room to appear inviting and warm, you should include texture with a lush sheepskin layer on top of your ordinary and neutral flat rug. This element would look perfect in a bedroom or a living room.

Make a Statement

Image source: veneerdesigns.com

A well decorated room should speak to you, tell a story about who the homeowner is, and why are things displayed in that specific manner. Make sure your room has a lot to tell by layering one narrow or small statement area rug, which will draw attention. The large neutral rug will serve to frame the smaller one.

Create Dynamic

If you manage to create a sense of motion in your room with nothing but rugs, you are qualified to be a professional decorator. What if we told you a secret? It is not that hard at all. Just overlap several round rugs or mix rugs of different size, shape and patterns in one place.

Fail-proof Ideas

Image source: thecolecollection.com

If you are still confused about the sequencing and the order of things , here are some ideas that will earn you the “amateur decorator of the year” award:

Cowhide over sisal can complement any style, especially rustic.
Faux leopard over jute can add a touch of distinction and define an area perfectly.
Aztec rugs over American southwestern modern rugs create a mild contrast perfect for a neutral living room.
Vintage rugs and modern rugs add a perfect eclectic vibe and serve as a great focal point.
Similar patterns create a coherent look. It doesn’t always have to be all about contrast, and you can master the art of subtly layering the rugs if you stick to one style.
A neutral rug constitutes a perfect base for just about any style and texture, so you can unleash your creativity.
Extend instead of placing one rug over the other. Use extra rugs to extend one that seems too small for the space.

Now go and play with layers, patterns and styles. This is a trend that allows you the freedom to express yourself without following some set-in-stone décor rules.

Decor

How to Decorate Around a Coffee Table – A Styleboard

June 1, 2016

Stella Van Lane

0 Comments

Creating a decor around a single piece you love can make your life easier. You don’t have to think of a certain decor style, and rampage through furniture stores and flea markets to find every single piece that fits. Do it in reverse, find something you would just love to have as a regular addition to your interiors. Then, hunt down the matching items.

The Right Coffee Table

In order to deliver an excellent example of what we are referring to, we teamed up with Chairish (we just love the name of their website). We consulted with them and made a stlyeboard that uses one of their coffee tables as the star item. Everything else was easy-peasy. The coffee table in question is Large Gold Finish Iron and Glass Top Coffee Table. Check out the styleboard below.

We aimed at merging the metal decor with a touch of Bohemian spirit (just look at the carpet). 🙂

Surrounding Elements & Coffee Table Accessories

The rest of this setup includes other products from their amazing shop:

Starburst Chandelier
Royal Metal Art Deco Style Red Vinyl Sofa
Mid-Century Modern Brass Sculpture Sands Casino
60s Gilt Metal & Glass Rolling Cart
Vintage Pink Turkish Kilim Rug

We hope you enjoyed this lovely styleboard and be sure to check out Chairish!

How to Make Monochrome Magic At Home

April 12, 2016

Lana Hawkins

1 Comment

A complete refreshment in the sphere of contemporary interior design comes in a form of monochromatic influence whose sole objective is to embellish the living space in a sleek and elegant way. For those who prefer the cleanness of the minimalistic approach, but wish to add a certain twist to it, the monochrome design allows you to play with the sleek combination of black, white and grey and create outstanding textures, patterns and shapes which will surely give your home a sophisticated approach. And for those who observe the contemporary design as tedious, this is the chance to learn how even the simplest designs can make a great difference.

Image source

The Dark White Rises

Going for a full modern approach like this one requires a bit of strategic planning as well. While the monochrome design has the ability to transform a space and give it a true sophisticate splendor, it is good to keep in mind that it is a thin line between monochrome and monotone. To avoid a dreadful and tedious ambient, the best way to go is up…or down for that matter. Playing with height and composition of certain objects in the living space allows you to create an illusion of movement in the room. This trick is also useful as it gives you the opportunity to make your living space a bit more interesting without digressing from the primary design idea.

Image source

Shine like A Star

As one of the main characteristics of a monochrome design is creating an ample space with a somewhat dark color palette, it is crucial to learn how to use the art of illumination to build up the ambient in the whole space. This is especially important as the magic of monochrome design tends to leave a bit of a cold and distant vibe in the space. This is where the ambient lighting comes in. The use of natural light in the space is quite often practiced in designs like this, as the warm sunrays give a warmer approach to a somewhat eerie space. Also statement lighting is something that can truly transform a home; especially modern floor lamps. For a more grandiose approach, chandeliers have the ability to add a dash of light as well as elegance to the room.

Image source

Pattern It Up

For some, the extensive use of black and white might seem a bit limiting when it comes to decorating the space. This is where textures and patterns find their way into the monochromatic design. Geometrical shapes and clean lines are still in focus, so naturally the use of horizontal and vertical lines, checker designs and dots are some of the best ways to enhance the beauty of the space.

Image source

Nature Always Finds Its Way

While the minimalistic design is more focused on creating a sterile atmosphere without the use of greenery, it is safe to say that nature always finds a way to infiltrate even in the most arid environments. This is how natural materials and fabrics can greatly embellish the living space, even in the gloomy monochrome interior design. This was popularized by the Scandinavian contemporary trend, where the use of raw wood and pale timber makes a wonderful blend with the industrial finishes of the minimalistic design. For a softer approach, take it from the northerners and overstate your living space with a sheepskin throw.

A strict and bold design with a dash of sophisticated is the simplest way to describe the true wonder of the monochromatic interior design. The wise play of neutrals, the blend of nature and the fine art of illumination create a ravishing setting suitable for every soul.

Feature image source: Periodliving.co.uk

Decor

Hop to It! Fabulous Easter Decorations You Can Make Yourself

March 25, 2016

Lana Hawkins

1 Comment

The time has come to oust the winter dullness and embrace the spring revival and the upcoming Easter rush. Even the less crafty of people are tempted to join the decoration band waggon and make something exceptional that adds up to the holiday spirit. I’ve looked everywhere for inspiration and ideas and compiled my ultimate selection of easy-peasy Easter decorations you can create on your own. Check it out.

Easter sweets as Easter decorations?

Easter sweets are not only mouth-watering, they come in gorgeous shapes and colours too. If you can’t help yourself but buy every Easter themed candy you come across, why not employ a portion of that large batch for the vase decoration. A transparent wide vase would be perfect for this project. From rainbow-tinted jelly beans, marshmallow bunnies to golden-wrapped chocolate eggs, it all makes it into the vase display. Finish it with a nice ribbon and a few flowers on top.

Cute chicken place markers

Cheer up your family members with some delightful personalised surprise in the form of cutsie placeholders. This will require tiny earthenware pots for every person. Make the chicken element using thicker plastic spoons, nail polish and markers. Dye the whole sets into a customised shade (the owner’s favourite). Embellish it with polka dots and name plates with special fonts. Your loved ones will be blown away!

Eye-catching door setup

I’ve never seen this before so I have to share! To enliven your front door for spring arrival with Easter decorations, consider placing some real or satin flower ornaments. What we had in mind is utilising an umbrella or a soft hat in some earthy colour as a socket for the bouquet. Attach the whole construction with an appropriate ribbon in some bold hue. Round up the setup with several faux eggs and grass to give it a veritable homey look.

Bunny-fied family photos

This one scores big points for both cost-effectiveness and decidedly adorable detailing. If you happen to find them, and I’m certain there’s plenty to choose from since it’s the holiday season, get yourself some bunny stickers. The purpose we had in mind is total bunnyfication of the displayed family photos in your home. Apply the ears, noses and mouths in random fashion on the frame glass. However, if the ratios are off, make your own sticky cutouts. Hop you go, bunnies!

Blossom flower pieces

I’m just not super keen on loads of flowers on the table near food (insects and such, you know), so I opted for something modest but not less charming. Since the spring has come a knocking, chances are that some branches can be found in your close neighbourhood. Select some nice, thinner pieces. Take some currently blossoming flowers and glue them to the branches. Lastly, secure the arrangement with tiny pebbles in an elegant jar.

Earthy table feel

I just had to include this table decoration as it was something special and works in a complementary manner with the blossoms. You can have a few mini oasis settings right there at your table. The idea remind me of those tiny sustainable ecosystems people make. You will need: several tall glass transparent cloches, some dirt and moss and several nice fern sprays. Use the dirt and moss to secure the fern and voila!

Versatile countdown calendar

Are you buzzing constantly about Easter topics a month or two prior to actual day? If you’re like myself, this all age proof calendar will make the countdown more enjoyable and fun. Join in with your children or little cousins and cross out the days before big holiday. Grab some multi-coloured plastic eggs with a cap and fill it with treats and happy messages. Adjoin it on a paper calendar board and it’s on!

These ornaments are not going to make themselves. Hurry up and get down to decorating.

Hoppy Easter everybody!

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Decor

Inspiration for Functional Decorating with Scandinavian Designs

Living Room

Home Office

The Bedroom

How to Introduce Bright Color into a Neutral Space

Rug

A group of accessories

Painting

Pillows

How to?

80/20 rule

Warm vs. Cool

Darks and lights

Painting walls – yes or no?

4 Important Qualities That Make Vinyl Windows the Right Choice

Virtually Scratch Free

No Painting

Multi-Glazed Instead of Double-Glazed

Lasts for Decades

How to Layer Rugs Like a Pro

Define Areas

Make It Pop

Add Texture

Make a Statement

Create Dynamic

Fail-proof Ideas

How to Decorate Around a Coffee Table – A Styleboard

The Right Coffee Table

Surrounding Elements & Coffee Table Accessories

How to Make Monochrome Magic At Home

Hop to It! Fabulous Easter Decorations You Can Make Yourself

Easter sweets as Easter decorations?

Cute chicken place markers

Eye-catching door setup

Bunny-fied family photos

Blossom flower pieces

Earthy table feel

Versatile countdown calendar

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