Category: chandelier

Spring is on it’s way! 10 great tips to freshen up the place at little to no cost

We might still have a month or so until we feel comfortable temperatures again. However, now is the best time to start thinking about updates and ways you can freshen up your home. From wallpaper to accessorizing, the tips below are sure to inspire you to roll up your sleeves and get to work (and fun!)

1. ~~Paint~~ Panel Wallpaper is your best friend!

I imagine one of the first things you think of when it comes to quick, easy, and affordable ways to spruce up a room, you think paint. Well think again my friend! And don’t worry, I’m not going to suggest you construct and install elaborate wood panels that are so popular these days. Your best option is panel wallpaper! Wallsauce.com had created and carefully selected panel wallpaper designs. Not only is the measuring process more straight forward, but the installation is simple too! For the trendsetters, the designs are also available on a self-adhesive, peel and stick wallpaper. So, when you are ready for a new feature wall, simply peel it off and your wall is instantly ready for its next feature. This also makes it a safe, clean option for anyone renting.

image via wallsauce.com

Wow! Talk about an upgrade!

2. Stick to a theme.

What do you call a Japanese, Victorian, and Modern theme? Answer: a college dorm. Try to stick to a basic theme and work with that design. Having a congruent theme throughout your home makes decorating much more full proof and gives the impression that you know what you’re doing!

Photo by shche_ team on Unsplash

3. Use visual cues.

Most people ignore very innate physical attributes of a home. Arched doorways are good for a Spanish theme. Crown molding works well with Victorian and Art Deco styles. Wainscoting on walls can work with a country theme. Solid walls work well with modern.

4. Furniture makes a statement about the room.

One of the biggest investments you can make can be the furniture you purchase for a room, however, try to repurpose existing furniture or try using simple chairs with matching table to create a theme.

5. Take a peek under the carpet

If you own an older home, chances are you are covering hard wood floors with that 70’s shag carpet. If you own a new home don’t be afraid to pull the carpet and put down wood laminate. Engineered wood has never been more affordable.

Photo by Josh Hemsley on Unsplash

6. Put down an area rug.

Area rugs can be purchased for as little as $200 and give a room a very expensive look. Carpet remnants make for excellent area rugs. See local Carpet store.

7. Ditch the overhead chandelier for wall sconces

Lighting is the oldest trick in the book to make a room pop; just ask Hollywood filmmakers. Get creative while sticking to the theme. Create a modern room by hiding the light source or create a Victorian feel by putting wall sconces on a light fader.

8. Less is more

Most people believe that every square inch needs to be filled in a room but emptiness is a statement in itself. You know the phrase “silence is deafening” ? Well, repeat the mantra, “sparse is stunning.” Don’t be afraid to leave a wall free of furniture.

Photo by House Method

9. Use accessories.

One of the least expensive ways to add color to a room with white walls is to add red pillows. Pillows, throw rugs, candles, paintings, photos, and flowers can make mild into wild.

10. Add a plant

One of the best ways to make a room feel like a living space is to add living plants, like a tall leafy plant in one corner, or just get some fresh seasonal flowers for the table.

BONUS TIP

Any change you make will add to your overall curb appeal and ultimately to the value of your home. Keep in mind that outdoor improvements such as foliage, plants, and bushes take a long time to grow so plan ahead. Thanks to Wallsauce for consulting.

January 27, 2021
Why LED Lighting is Soon to Become the Norm for Indoor and Outdoor Use

A lot of people have already started upgrading their homes and businesses to using LED lighting rather than old, incandescent bulbs or compact fluorescent lighting (CFL). While the early adopters of home LED have already seen the benefits in terms of dramatically reduced energy costs, the upfront costs of the bulbs used to make the switch a fairly big commitment for your whole home and all of your outdoor lights.

via like2buy

LED Bulbs Are Now More Affordable

Now, however, thanks to advances in manufacturing technology and processes and market demand for more cost-effective, greener bulbs, LEDs have come down dramatically in price, meaning that switching to LED has become an option for just about everyone. With so many benefits, it is no surprise that uptake is growing hugely, especially as most people don’t even need to change their light fittings to install LED bulbs.

via Sustainable Kitchens

LED has made Compact Fluorescent Lights Redundant

In fact, such is the superiority of LED that General Electric recently announced they were going to cease production of CFL lights. CFL lights never really won the hearts of consumers despite saving energy compared to incandescent bulbs. People felt they looked unappealing, gave an inferior lighting effect compared to incandescents, and they also took a while to light up. LED offers no such problems and, in fact, offers just about any lighting effect you want – colored lights, warm and cool tones of white light, and any brightness from interior mood lighting to outdoor floodlights.

via like2buy

LED and the Future

The advantages of LED bulbs apply to just about every home or workplace in the world. They last for tens of years, they use 85-90% less electricity to give the same lighting as compared to conventional bulbs, and they give you so many more options in terms of the effects you want to create, whether you want color changing LEDs in your shower or outdoor security lights. They can be made in all kinds of different shapes and styles, and have become the best friends of interior and landscape designers, making whole new looks possible and inexpensive.

via Urban Outfitters

With more companies like https://www.voltlighting.com/ offering LED products at remarkably low prices compared to just a few years ago, it is very likely that the huge upward trend in uptake is going to continue, and within just a few years, LED will have completely taken over as the standard way of lighting homes, public spaces, and business premises.

via Circa Lighting

This is good news in terms of carbon emissions. It will also mean reduced energy costs across the board, allowing businesses to reduce overheads and households to save a considerable amount of money over the year.

via This Old House

While light bulb technology may not be the most glamorous shift in how we use tech in the 2010s, it is certainly an interesting one. It’s also one that will bring a lot of benefits to a lot of people. If you don’t already use LED in your home, it may be a good time to get on board!

This post in consideration with Volt Lighting

January 26, 2018
Incredibly chic and elegant homes

Chic Homes

With a toddler boy and another little boy due October 16th, a super polished and elegant homes like the ones below aren’t in my immediate future. That doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy feasting my eyes on reflective finishes free of little fingerprints, floors free of tiny toy cars, and countertops free of mashed bananas…

The sconces are amazing, as is the herringbone floors and moulding.

I’d prefer a wood floor over a concrete one, but for me that chandelier really steals the show…

2 images above via Adore Home

This space is crisp and tailored but the mix of hard and soft keeps it warm.

Pretty much love everything about this white kitchen. The subways tile and contrasting black island are perfect.

The carved desk is AMAZING. And the textured white wall behind it is an unexpected focal point.

More gorgeous moulding. The pure white with the wood floors is gorgeous.

2 images above via Cottages and Gardens

September 28, 2017
Dressing Rooms: Tips for creating a superbly glamorous dressing room

Dressing Room inspiration

Jane, a Decorology reader, wrote me asking for inspiration for a 9×9 room she wants to turn into a “fit for a star dressing room.” So I’ve done my best to compile some super glamorous dressing rooms. I’ve also found a few “glam dressing room” essentials and where to find them. Even if you don’t have a dressing room, I hope you enjoy this eye candy!

One of my favorite dressing rooms – the dressing room of JCrew Jenna Lyons as seen in Domino.
via Abigail Ahern

Another one I like -I guess I really like the windows with natural light, which is good for makeup.
via La Dolce Vita

I think the mornings would be easier to face with a beautiful wall of beautiful shoes.
dressing room image credit

via NestEgg

A dressing room is a great place to try out that bold wallpaper or paint color you’ve been eyeing as it’s a more private, smaller space.
via La Dolce Vita

A super eclectic dressing room.
via La Dolce Vita

I adore this shot – a perfect vision of glamour.
via Country Living

Another one of my faves.
via Architect Design

via Apartment Therapy

Here are some items I would use to create a starlet dressing room.

Top left: A staple of any glam interior – a chaise or settee. This one is from Montauk sofa.
Top right: Chandelier, like this one from Graham and Greene
Center: A tufted ottoman, this one is from Serena and Lily
Bottom left: A mirrored vanity is quintessential glam. This one is from Graham and Greene
Bottom right: A pretty little table like this one from Oomph Online

April 24, 2017
New York City townhouse modern design and traditional bones

House Tour! An 1850s New York City townhouse!

Architect Ambler had grown out of his apartment when the 400 sq ft. studio next door came up for sale. It seemed like fate so he bought it and worked to combine the two into a unified New York City townhouse perfect for displaying his collection of vintage and modern art and furnishings. Combine that with subtle renovations in line with strict landmark district regulations, you end up with a beautiful classic modern contrast.

What attracted me most to this space is the beautiful arched window. It acts as a frame out to the street. In New York City you often have to be willing to welcome street life into your home as art through your windows!

So much natural light is a blessing on street level. I love the modern furniture, like these black leather chairs, combined with classical elements like the arched windows.

The townhouse feels like a museum with all of the modern art and interesting furniture.

How beautiful are the antique mirror closet doors.

The den and the chandelier in the office are one of my favorite parts of the house. The technique of leaving the top 12 inches of the wall unpainted really create an illusion of height.

The real showstopper in the townhouse are the gleaming herringbone hardwood floors.

Ambler honored the traditional bones of the house in all of the renovation except for the kitchen and baths, which he intentionally wanted modern.

via Lonny

February 14, 2017
Turning Your Bedroom into a Sanctuary

In today’s always on world, finding time for yourself to just relax and chill can be difficult. As well as being short of time, most people live with other family members, which can make it hard to get away from everyone and everything.

However, most of us still have the luxury of having our own bedroom. This is important because it is a space that can easily be turned into a proper sanctuary. The fact that a bedroom is still seen as a private space means that it is somewhere you can go to be alone, and do your own thing.

Choose a restful style of decor

You need to resist the temptation to decorate your bedroom in a jazzy style. It is far better to opt for a more muted style of decor, which creates a more calming and relaxing ambience.

via

Add a chair or sofa

If you have the space, invest in a comfortable chair, and footrest, or a small sofa. You will be surprised by just how much you use it.

via The Girl Who Knows

Get a nice headboard

For some reason, headboards went out of fashion, but, for 2017, they are back. Most retailers are once again stocking big, decorative, padded headboards. This is great news for you, because it means that your bed will once again be somewhere you can comfortably sit up and read.

Let the light in

Now I know this is going to sound strange, but you really need to let as much natural light into your bedroom as possible. Being able to see the view will lift your spirits, and help you to rebalance after a frenetic day.

via Matouk

If you enjoy having breakfast in bed, or reading in your room during the day you will be thankful of the natural light. The trick with bedrooms is to install good quality curtains, or blinds, so that you can keep the light out until you want it.

It is also important to install good lighting in your bedroom. You want to be able to see what you are doing when you get dressed, and have enough light to be able to read comfortably. However, at times, you will want to dim the lights to create a more romantic, or relaxing ambience.

via Luxe

Add a touch of luxury

In sanctuary bedrooms, luxury bedspreads are always a good idea. They make the room look fantastic, as well as feel great against your skin.

A place to pamper yourself

The bedroom is the perfect place to enjoy beauty treatments. If you have enough space, set aside a cupboard, or chest of drawers to store everything that you need. Having everything you need readily to hand will encourage you to treat yourself to a foot spa, and face pack on a regular basis.

via

Wire your bedroom for sound

If you find listening to music relaxing, consider investing in a good quality sound system for your bedroom. In a crowded house that may mean buying a set of wireless headphones, which will allow you to listen to the TV or your music system when everyone else is in bed, and sound asleep.

In partnership with JD Williams

January 23, 2017
Dream bathrooms: Layout, storage, materials, and decoration
Dream bathrooms galore!

I’m a sucker for a good bathroom. I love a good soak, especially in the winter, and now with a toddler, my bathroom is a well-needed refuge. The perfect bathroom isn’t achieved through one element, rather the combination of a great layout, adequate bathroom storage, well-considered materials, easy to use fixtures, and lastly the decoration used to personalize it. The amount of choices you’ll have to make when planning a bathroom can be overwhelming: pedestal sinks, double vanities, freestanding tubs, and corner shower stalls abound! Hopefully the bathroom guide below can be a little help or at least provide some inspiration!
1. Bathroom Layout
  
  To begin with, your bathroom layouts need to be efficient because they are often tighter on space than other rooms in the home. Not space for a freestanding tub and a corner shower means you will need to plan for a bathtub shower combo. A good place to start is the National Kitchen and Bath Association for planning guidelines, and of course, your favorite internet sources for inspiration. If you have a large family, separating the toilet from the shower and sink area allows multiple people use of the bathroom at the same time.
A double vanity tucked in a corner provides space for a beautiful walk-in shower, which are usually space hogs. Wall space is utilized by a large mirror, reflecting more light into the space.

2. Adequate Bathroom Storage

Secondly, Especially important if you have a small or even normal-sized bathroom is making sure you have storage! The smaller your bathroom, the more creative you will have to be at coming up with storage solutions. This is where the internet will be your friend. Try to find ways to utilize your vertical (wall) space. Built in shelves, hanging shelves, mountable cabinets, you name it. Whatever solutions will get things off of the floor are your friends!

The narrow vertical shelves behind the door and and the build in shelves in the shower create much needed storage space for towels, toiletries, and other bathroom necessities. Isn’t the gray marble tile absolutely beautiful?

Nothing beats the bathroom vanity when it comes to adding under-sink storage, but don’t forget is can also create wall storage also! Look into vanities or cabinetry to go on the side of your mirror and above the sides of the sink.

3. Materials

Since one can only get so creative with the layout of your bathroom – toilet in the shower?? No thanks.., materials are where you can really stand out with your bathroom design. Tiles come in such a wide variety of colors and styles these days. Backsplashes aren’t just for kitchens, you can add sophistication through a backsplash behind your bathroom sink. HATE cleaning grout? Consider stone or granite in your shower. Materials also includes hardware, for which there is no shortage of variety these days either. Cabinet knobs, come in every style and finish, lighting comes in every style and finish, and then faucets and shower heads also come in a never-ending array of styles and finishes. Whatever you go with, make sure that the materials and finishes match your lifestyle. If you know you won’t be able to keep grout mildew-free or shiny finishes polished, than chose a finish and material that are smudge-resistant and/or more resistant to mildew.

It doesn’t get more beautiful than marble and marble tile in my opinion, and this bathroom is proof. The pendant light over the tub is really beautiful as well, and it’s brass finish adds warmth to the space. The crown moulding and built-in-shelves are thoughtful details. I’m not sure about how durable marble is however, as I believe it can etch, so it might not be something I would consider for a children’s or high-traffic bathroom.

4. Decoration

Lastly, This is where you really get to have fun. Since decor is generally less expensive, you don’t have to worry that your decisions are set in stone. Artwork, mats, and towels can be changed with the seasons if you desire. Don’t forget paint colors as well! Keep this in mind when decorating a child’s bathroom. Since children grow up all to quickly, decor that is easy to change out or grows with them will be another choice you’ll have to make.

This bathroom goes from pretty and patterned to dramatic with a glossy forest green ceiling. The glass cabinet is a perfect way to add style and storage to this bathroom.

Honeycomb patterned penny tile takes centerstage along with a mod chandelier. The freestanding clawfoot tub with gold finishes also lends itself to the elegant aesthetic. The floor to ceiling drapes, 3/4 height tile, and navy wall also all add to the elegance and sophistication to the bathroom.

I love the layering of textures in this bathroom. The ornate tiles with the oriental rug over them ads a lot of bohemian charm.

This post in partnership with Decoraport International
January 23, 2017
Warm and rustic spaces to inspire you to cozy up for winter

Well, we’re expectinh highs of 78 here in Maryland, but we all know winter will be here in the blink of an eye. Whether you’re a fan of winter or not, these rustic cozy interiors will make evenings indoor a toasty treat.

A glamorous modern chandelier and sleek upholstered headboard nicely contrast the dark wook paneling.

A really cool live edge wood headboard, and wool and fur textures make this the perfect cold weather retreat.

This ceiling has so much vision. I never would have thought to panel the ceiling in wood planks! All of the textures in the bedding are nice too!

How gorgeous is this hallway and staircase with wood beams?

This kitchen is AMAZING. Sleek cabinetry and square tiles paired with rough hewn beams, wideplank floors, and that island?!?

Just add a fireplace to this bathroom and it’s perfect for winter nights!

November 2, 2016
Ali Cayne’s light-filled family friendly NYC townhouse

I was pretty darn excited to run across this house tour on Domino magazine because I’ve seen and featured rooms from it individually in previous posts (her bathroom is one of my favorites)! Ali Cayne is a restauranteur who moved to a downtown Manhattan townhouse and took the opportunity to update it to be a warm and inviting family home for her and her five children.

Ali really made her subway tiles pop by using a dark grout (darker grout also hides stains better than white).

What an oven!

Open shelves full of beautiful dishes looks like a chef’s delight!

I love the light gray cabinets with the brass cup pulls.

Not only would I be thrilled to have a dressing room, but a dressing room white built ins and herringbone hardwood floors?

The Greenwich Village townhouse has amazing bones, and the renovations really are a breath of fresh air.

I don’t usually love accent walls, but I love a dark accent wall in a master bedroom.

This dining room is heaven. A white gallery wall, and beautiful dining table and chairs.

I like the glam version of a sawhorse desk. The giant inspiration board is great too.

Ali’s workspace is also light filled and features built in bookshelves.

This is the bathroom I’ve posted before. It is an all time favorite.

Read and see more at Domino Magazine.

August 22, 2016
Light-filled rooms to brighten your Monday

Beautiful rooms to inspire

We had quite a busy (though fun-filled) weekend so I’m feeling a bit lethargic this morning. I needed a bit of eye-candy to perk me up and thought I’d share my best Pinterest finds with you.

A traditional dining room with a country twist. The simple table and chairs tone down the ornate chandelier and mirror frame.
via Pinterest via Lark & Linen

Nothing like a gorgeous antique piece or beautiful oriental rug to adorn your entryway.
via Pinterest via Amber Interiors

A delicious clawfoot tub, ornate crown moulding, and those shutters!
via Pinterest via Lonny

Another beautiful entryway. I think the round mirrors are really interesting and a nice change of pace from commonly-used rectangle mirrors.
via Pinterest via MyDomain

Did you notice the bright white subway tile walk-in shower? I didn’t at first. But WOW. Looks amazing.
via Pinterest via DecorPad

That gold chandelier is so elegant in it’s simplicity. I think there is a whole separate room for the shower too!
via Pinterest via Lark & Linen

August 1, 2016