Showing posts with label home. Show all posts
Showing posts with label home. Show all posts

Friday, November 19, 2010

Contemporary Bedding Ensembles

When shopping for new bedding ensembles for your home many retailers will refer to their product lines as Contemporary. Contemporary bedding itself doesn’t really have a concrete definition. Often the definition will vary depending on who you ask, and even when you ask them. Like the clothing industry, bedding fashions change over time and a pattern or style which today falls under “contemporary” or “modern” may very well be considered under a different heading in the future. In this article we will discuss three of the major bedding manufacturers and what styles in their lines are currently considered contemporary.

Contemporary bedding offered by Dakotah represents Dakotah’s usual fine fabrics and clean linear designs. Using simple color palettes and sleek minimalist design features make Dakotah bedding a very elegant choice. Some of their current contemporary designs include:
 Aurora - Features an abstract wave pattern in the season’s hottest color combination, mocha and sky blue.
Metrotech - Combines a clean stripe pattern with warm honey tones for a look that is simple and chic.
Odyssey - Combines classic black silk shantung with stylish metallic shades of gold and copper.

Thomasville Contemporary Ensembles follow Thomasville’s usual approach to creating fine bedding that is versatile and diverse. Thomasville offers their bedding a la carte so creating an ensemble which fits your lifestyle, price range and personal preference is easy. Thomasville designs are described as artistically abstract, using bright color palettes and detailed accessories. Their current contemporary line includes these designs:
Altessa - A beautiful abstract swirl pattern using rich earth tones with gold shantung accents.
Coronado - A modern take on art deco, using bold patterns with accessories that add a bright pop of color.
Pavilion - takes its cue from the bohemian trend, using patchwork patterns in soothing shades of sky and parchment.

Veratex, yet another fine bedding manufacturer, is well known for their modern sense of style. Veratex contemporary ensembles are inspired by rich designs found in cultures throughout the world. Three of their ensembles which stand out as contemporary design are:
Waterlily and Dynasties - both inspired by Asian design, using clean lines, solid colors, and simple blocked patterns.
Serrano - inspired by designs of the Southwest. This classic stripe pattern combines earth tones with a bold shade of orange spice.

These are some of the key styles that current manufacturers are offering as contemporary. What ties all of these designs together are sleek lines, natural color palettes and either abstract or geometric patterns. Usually a modern look will include a clean lined, tailored bed skirt as opposed to the classic ruffled bed skirt

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Smart Buying Tips for Beds

You might like to consider that a town book store might possibly be an obvious place to obtain guidance aimed at bed products, internet availability might often cause us to ignore the numerous other bedding resources which are currently freely available to all of us, take advantage of such sources of good bed data, prime bed merchandise info may quite often be difficult to locate.

If you are unable to get the interior design help you need from a bed supplier then possibly you are regrettably looking in the inappropriate place, for instance, lets pretend for a moment your subject of interest was antique iron brass beds, it would possibly be best for you to try a particular bedding directory.

A trouble free experience when buying certain products like heavy duty bed frames or water bed sheet sets is an area that no consumer should ever take for granted, you should value the portals that offer suitable bed purchasing knowledge and record their info for the future.

Now if you want info on camping air beds it might be better to make use of a bed site to make contact with a bed specialist, if you do this you will obviously obtain a small amount of bed guidance for free.

Lets imagine you are looking for heavy duty bed frames or adjustable tempur pedic beds, it is clear that these type of beds may not be widely available on a wide selection of portals, you should really ensure that you employ your internet browser favorites function when you make this variety of bed focused research, your valuable info must always be treated with the utmost of care.

A sizeable number of bed associated searches might buy have led you to a bed or bedding focused site, searches like "find heavy duty bed frames" or "reviews on adjustable electric beds ", the main secret with any home improvement directory is to go straight to the site menu, if you take this advice you should not be side tracked because of bed articles which are not connected to the bed you require.

If you are obtaining something like a king iron bed it does not always mean purchasing from a bed or home furnishing targeted site, lets imagine you are living in Guam for instance, a bed directory should be able to give you relevant contact details of closely situated bed supplier who should hopefully be able to help you to find the bed you need.

You see interior design is an area that covers a massive area of different bed products like heavy duty bed frames and adjustable tempur pedic beds, say you wanted expert help on a particular area of beds, lets suppose a product like metal beds, this might easily be sourced from a bed supplier.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Bedroom Decorating Ideas Can Be Simple or Elaborate

For bedroom decorating ideas, there is a very large number of different themes from which you can choose. Naturally, your decision for bedroom decorating will be based not only on your personal taste, but will also have to do with the budget you have available.

Beyond that, when you’re decorating a bedroom, you also need to think about the amount of space the bedroom permits you. This will help to decide the type and amount of furniture and other items that you will be able to use without making the space too cramped or uncomfortable. Remember, a bedroom should be a calm and inviting space, not an obstacle course!

Therefore, your first step in decorating bedroom is to measure your space, and then come up with the theme or style that you like the best. Among the more popular decorating bedroom ideas are:

* Modern
* Mediterranean
* Cottage
* Southwestern
* Victorian

With your style chosen, you can look into bedroom decorating tips that will allow you to reach that final image. For example, if you were thinking of bedroom decorating ideas that are Victorian, you may consider the following tips:

* The Victorian style has a rather feminine feel about it, so bedroom decorating in this style will primarily be enjoyed by women. If you are considering making the master bedroom a Victorian style room, you will want to make sure that your spouse or partner shares this particular taste.

* Decorating a bedroom in this style is quite showy and dramatic. The bed will typically consist of a heavy four-poster of wood or cast iron. It may have a canopy, curtains, throw pillows and blankets, and a bedspread that is well embellished with patterns, fringe, bows, and ribbons.

* Decorating bedroom styles such as Victorian will also include a great deal of accessorizing, such as with enormous, overstated rugs, flowering plants, and ornate gold frames surrounding paintings of flowers, birds, children, or maidens.

No matter the bedroom decorating ideas you use, as long as you remain focused and follow through, you’re certain to enjoy the final achievement.

Saturday, November 13, 2010

A Quick Rundown on Rustic Bedding

These days, anyone looking to purchase home furnishings is faced with a seemingly endless range of choices. There is enough bedding, bathroom accessories and furniture products available for you to indulge in all your interior decoration desires, but with the wide assortment available it's sometimes difficult to know where to start!

A popular method nowadays is to decorate a room according to a theme; haphazard décor displays just doesn't cut it anymore. For example, you can choose to go the modern route with steel, glass and leather or an Eastern-inspired theme complete with a divan and mirrored bedspreads. However, one the most popular choices among home decorators remains the tried and true theme of a rustic lodge or cabin.

Rustic-inspired furnishings usually feature warm colors and tend towards practicality and comfort. You can co-ordinate your whole bedroom with appropriate rustic bedding accessories, matching drapes, carpets, lighting fixtures and bathroom accessories. One of the more distinctive features of a rustic bedding set is its colors and motifs. They usually come in warm colors like brick red, deep greens, oranges, blues and dark grays – all colors inspired from nature. The motifs are distinct in that they sport the themes of wildlife and the wild outdoors. They evoke the comfortable and relaxed atmosphere of a lodge or cabin.

Most rustic bedding sets are available in a wide variety of sizes and sheet combination. A standard sheet set usually includes a top sheet along with a fitted bottom sheet and two pillowcases. It should be noted that in many cases only a single pillowcase is provided with the twin set of sheets. Rustic bedding sets come in all the standardized sizes – Twin, Full, Queen, King and CAL king. This makes it easier for you to choose a set according to your needs and you don't have to worry about the bedding set being either too small or too large for your bed.

You generally have the choice of two types of fabric: flannel and percale. While flannel is made from 100% cotton fibers, percale is 30% cotton and 70% polyester. The pricing also differs for the two fabrics – on the whole the percale bedding sets are somewhat cheaper than flannel ones. Apart from the usual themes like woods, moose, bear, fishing etc., some companies also offer a 'heritage' bedding collection. These are classic designs for the more traditionally inclined.

Apart from the regular bedding sets you can also buy matching comforters (available in all the standard sizes), pillow shams and bed skirts. Some manufacturers also provide throw pillows and shower curtains to match your rustic bedding set. To complete the look of your room, you can even go so far as to use compatible window treatments. The drapes usually match the pattern of the comforter, and the headers, rod pocket and tiebacks complete the set. Blanket ensembles made from the finest fabrics are also an option if you're looking to splurge. Heck, if you are so inclined, you could even invest in an heirloom quality handmade quilt with a rustic theme.

Friday, November 5, 2010

Planning Your Own Rustic Home

Whatever your circumstances, if you like the idea of getting back to nature, why not think about creating a rustic home? You don't need to relocate or live in the country to achieve the rustic home look; you just need to get inspired.
It doesn't matter whether you live in a loft apartment, or a larger property; you can still create a charming rustic home.

Let's start by looking at flooring. You can give your home an immediate rustic feel by taking up the carpet and going natural. Bring some early American history into your home and use reclaimed solid wood plank flooring. It will bring warmth and atmosphere to your home and become a talking point, as much reclaimed wood comes from buildings that are well over a century old. If you don't want to use reclaimed wood there are many companies offering flooring that comes with the assurance that the wood is taken from a certified well-managed forest. You need have no worries that your new rustic home won't be ecologically friendly.

One of the most important choices to make when choosing a rustic decorative theme is lighting. There are many unique designs to choose from. Consider a wagon wheel chandelier to give an authentic western feel to your home, or reproduction antlers to add a feeling of the wild and the natural. Advantages of bringing in reproductive lighting, particularly in the case of antlers, are that they are practical and affordable. Rustic tin lamps can also bring a rustic feel to your home.

You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting furniture for your rustic home. The rustic look is full of texture and for this reason it is important not to overdo it. Choose only a few select items, and if you want to avoid using too much wooden furniture, consider mixing in some wrought iron.  Wrought iron can often incorporate wildlife or nature images that blend beautifully with the rustic natural feel. Decorative coat racks, wood and newspaper bins can add country charm. Add a bit of style and warmth with fabrics and accessories, from country-style cushion covers to duvets and throws.

You don't necessarily need to spend a fortune to create a rustic home. Think about adding thoughtful little touches that cost little or nothing at all - except some imagination. Press some flowers or leaves, collect some shells or acorns, and arrange them into an attractive display that can be mounted on a wall. Make use of an existing hobby - or start a new one - and create some artwork. From needlework, cross-stitch to photography and drawing - all of these can add to the lovely feel of your rustic home.

A rustic home can be for everyone. If you want to live in the country but are unable to do so, bring the country feel into your home by making it rustic. If you live in the country, make yours a rustic home to blend in with your surroundings. Whoever and wherever you are, you can create a rustic home.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

A Guide to Bedroom Decorating

When decorating a bedroom, keep in mind that the end result should produce a distinct and memorable impression. Colors, space and decorations all set a bedroom's mood, and when put together well, can create a definite, pleasurable look.  

When it comes to the arrangement of items in a bedroom, symmetry is the most important factor. The bedroom is your personal space and should not be cluttered with too many objects creating a claustrophobic effect. For a room to seem personal, special touches should be added that reflect your special loves and interests. This includes your favorite colors, books, photographs, etc. Make sure colors are balanced in subtle shades reflecting your lifestyle and interests. The older generation seems to prefer more subdued shades than the younger generation, who opt for bright, textured colors. To maintain balance, the color of a chair placed at one end of the room can be repeated on throw, pillows or carpet. Furniture in the bedroom is of utmost importance. Don't over do it with too many pieces making your bedroom look overdressed and cluttered. The size of the bed should be in proportion to the size of the bedroom. What matters the most is comfort. Therefore, a bed should offer quality, comfort and a feeling of elegance. Nightstands or side tables should be on either side of the bed for books, medications and telephone. A dressing table comes in handy for women, and dressers with lots of storage space are ideal. Ample closet space is important, as are mirrors and wall decor. Mirrors help to give a room a larger look and also help to reflect light. Lighting should be gentle and relaxing.  Valence lighting is ideal for bedrooms, and colored lights can be used for added effects. Subtle light gives a romantic feeling to the room, and focused light is good for detail work like reading without disturbing someone sleeping in the room. 

Finally, a bedroom should be well-ventilated, designed for comfort and always stocked with a vase of flowers for a fresh feeling.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Designing Your Home Office

Once you have taken the plunge and decided to work from home you are going to need to consider your working environment. Too many people think that working from home means that they can effectively handle phone calls from the kitchen table, or work well into the night cuddled up in front of the television. And while you may be able to get away with this type of working style once in awhile, you will need to design a home office space that is effective and efficient.

A well designed home office will allow you to be more organized, more productive and definitely more professional. There are a few things that you will need to consider when you are designing your space. Do you entertain clients in your office? If so, you will want a separate entrance to your home office. It is not very professional to have clients walk through your kitchen with dirty dishes in the sink in order to get to your office.

Even if you do not host clients in your office, you should strongly consider the benefits of having a separate space for your office. You will feel more professional if you have a designated room or space for your office rather than a corner of the living room. This will also allow you to tune out distractions such as the children, or the television. When you are working, close the door and focus on work.

Some things that you will need to consider are furniture, organization, lighting and ventilation. You will need to equip your office to suit your needs and for most people this means that you will need the standard desk. Your desk does not need to be fancy; in fact as long as it suits your needs, you can get away with a very simple table. Storage is also very important for a home office. Do not underestimate the power of a quality file cabinet and a good organizing system. If you have a lot of books a shelving system will go along way.

High quality lighting is also essential in your home office. You may need to install a better overhead light as most residential lights will not put out quality light that is needed for an office. Adequate lighting is essential for a comfortable and ergonomically sound working environment. Ventilation is also important, as you will need to work in a comfortable environment. If your space gets hot in the summer months, invest in air conditioning or a fan.

Last but not least, do not forget to make your home office inviting for you to come to work. Put up a few pieces of artwork or some prints, bring in some house plants or fresh flowers and create an environment that is not only functional, but enjoyable to be in as well. After all you're going to be spending 8 - 10 hours per day in there.

Monday, November 1, 2010

Decorations: Make Any House a Home

Can you tell the difference between entering a house and a home? If so, what makes the difference to you? Is it something about the way a living space looks that helps you decide? Or perhaps it is a feeling, something about the atmosphere that makes a house different than a home? I guess that there are many factors that could account for the differences we all experience as we enter a living space. For me, one of the biggest things that helps me determine whether a living space feels like a house or a home is decorations.

You know how it is. You enter someone's house and look around to see nothing but blank walls and minimal furniture. You silently wonder how they live in a place as drab and uninviting as this. There is no art work, no color, and certainly no sense of ownership and pride about the house you are seeing. It seems like they haven't put in any time to adding decorations or the touches that make a house seem like more than a house.

Enter house two. From the time you walk through the front door all of your senses are awakened. There is a wonderful smell coming from the candles burning throughout the house, and the lighting of the candles isn't too bad either. The house is bursting with color and personality, almost as if it reflects something about the people who live there. The walls, bookshelves, and furniture are all a part of the decorations that fill this home and make anyone want to spend time there.

Most everyone I know wants to have a home rather than a house. They want their living space to feel lived in, inviting, and special. They want their home to reflect who they are and the things they care about, and they certainly want it to be filled with amazing colors, great textures and smells, and a lot of great decorations.

The good news for you is that regardless of what your house looks like now, you can transform your space into a wonderful home by doing a few simple things. Don't be afraid to experiment and try risky things in your space, after all, it is your own. If there is a crazy color or a unique couch that you like, just go for it. Gather ideas from friends and buy a few decorating magazines to see what is in styles before you begin.

No matter what you decide to do to transform your house into a home, make sure you fill your home with great decorations that are truly your taste and that allow all of your guests to feel welcomed and comfortable.

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Home Lighting - Creating Illusions with Window Treatments

Windows come in all sizes, shapes and construction.  You can create illusions using standard curtains or other window dressings available today.  Long drapes are more formal, short curtains tend to be more casual.  You can use different styles to add to your interior decorating, such as country, with wide tidebacks and ruffles.

Curtains can help the following problems:

1.    Small window – extend the rod beyond the window frame.  This will create the appearance of a larger window.  More light will filter through the opening.

2.    Large window -  Attach your rod in the normal position.  Try using tiebacks on the curtains.  Use a valance. 

3.    Short/Tall windows -  For short windows attach your rod above the window frame.  Taller windows will appear shorter if you use a draped valance.  It will soften the window.

4.    View – If your purpose is to hide the view, match the window color to your wall covering.  It will reduce attention to the window.

Today there are so many choices - Vertical blinds, mini-blinds, wood blinds, shades of all types. You can keep it simple or layer the materials.  Investigate the choices before you finish your room.  If you give this some forethought, you can design your area to allow for changing window dressings each season.

Home Interior Painting

A new coat of paint can refresh and revitalize any room in your house. Paint is also a very cost effective way to change the look of a room. The best part about interior painting is that almost anyone can do it—all you need is the right material and a little bit of knowledge.

Painting Supplies
Your supply needs will vary depending upon the room that you are painting and the type of paint that you are using, but here is a basic list to get you started:

Paint
 After you choose a color, you will also need to choose a finish. The finish determines how shiny the paint will be. Choices include flat, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and gloss. Flat finish is hard to wipe clean and should only be used in low traffic areas that will not attract dirt. Satin, eggshell, and semi-gloss finishes are easy to wipe clean and can be used almost anywhere. Gloss finish is very shiny and is best reserved for small areas such as trim or molding.

Paint Applicators
 Paint rollers and brushes are necessities. A good paint roller can paint an entire room. Choose one that has a fair amount of nap to it-- the thicker the better. When it comes to brushes, everyone has their own individual preference. A small angle brush works well for trim and corners. A three inch flat brush or a paint pad will work well for the places that a paint roller can not reach.

Miscellaneous Supplies
 In addition to paint and paint applicators, you may also need drop cloths, cleaning rags, paint trays, spackling, sandpaper, and a putty knife (if your walls are damaged and need repair), and a ladder or stepladder. The ladder will need to be sturdy and stable to support your movements. Try choosing a ladder with a wide base or a flared bottom like on a Little Giant Ladder.

Painting Tips
When painting, the most important thing you can do is take your time. If you move too fast, things could get sloppy. Also important, is the prep work. Your painting project will go much smoother if you are properly prepared prior to painting. Here are some tips that can help:

•    Make sure that you have everything you need by organizing all of your supplies before you start painting.
•    Protect your furniture from paint splatters by moving it or covering it up.
•    Use low-tack masking tape to tape off baseboards and trim. Remove the tape before the paint dries.
•    Paint the walls before painting trim or woodwork.
•    Do not apply a second coat of paint until the first coat has dried.

Make Your House Your Home - Interior Decorating

There is no better haven than our home. “East or West, home is the best,” is a common saying. Whoever it may be, whatever position he or she may hold, finally everyone returns home to find peace and relax.

A home is cozier and more comfortable than any other place. We build our homes with the utmost care and sincerity. After all, it is a place where we spend most of our lives.

Home decorating means a lot to the owner. It also demands hard work and devotion, as it is not an easy task. Decorating includes both the interior as well as exterior aspects.

As far as home interior decorating is concerned, every nook and corner has to be studied so that the available space is utilized to the maximum. A good interior decorator should be able to help you in selecting the correct interior decorating solution for your home. Before actually starting the work, you need to be sure whether the emphasis is going to be on beauty, comfort, or the appearance of your home.

You need to attend to all parts, namely, doors, windows, floors, furniture and accessories. For windows, curtains, blinds, rods and panels should be attractive and appealing. Some people prefer light colors, while others prefer heavy and striking upholstery. Doors can be tastefully designed and the material itself can be exotic.

There is a wide range of flooring options available. You can choose from marble, granite tiles, bricks, slates, concrete, or steel. To add more color, suitable carpets can be spread. Rugs can be used to complement them.

Walls, pillars, and other standouts can be decorated using artifacts, paintings or wall hangings. Modern arts are becoming a common choice.

Not just the living room, but also every part of your home needs your attention. The kitchen should be convenient and easy to use. The gas tables, racks and shelves, cooking range, utensils, and all other accessories should be chosen carefully and arranged neatly to avoid messing them.

Further, furniture selection should be done wisely. The sofa sets, chairs, dining table, dressing table and cots must reflect your taste.

Pottery and decorative plants are also a welcome addition in home interior decorating. Sculptures or a mini-fountain may seem incredible. An aquarium can add beauty to your home. You need to pick the right colors and paints for your wonderful home.

While deciding on the interiors, themes like energy-efficiency can prove useful. As you see, there is no limit to home interior decorating.