Decorology

Category: exposed beams

  • Modern Rustic Inspiration

    Modern Rustic Inspiration

    Growing up on a farm, I feel at home in a rustic interior.  That being said, I also like interiors that are uncluttered and have very clean lines.  One doesn’t easily find a straight line in nature, so in my eyes blending straight, clean lines with natural organic elements is an art form.  Here are some interiors that I think perfectly blend modern with rustic.

    Yes. Dark hardwood floors.  Tons of natural light. Textured wide wood plank ceilings. Sliding barn doors. YES.

    via Pinterest via Tidbits and Twine

    I think this is Meg Ryan’s kitchen.  Love all of the white and wooden beams.
    via DecorPad

    You can also successfully incorporate bright colors in a neutral palette.  I’d personally use the brights as accents or pops of color.
    via Home Adore

    Man oh man.  I’d be getting dirty A LOT just to spend more time in this bathroom.  Pepple tile on the floor, copper tub, wide wood plank walls, exposed brick….!!
    via Pinterest via BlogLovin

    This bedroom is styled to the hilt but I’m a sucker for a pretty bed.  The headboard brings in texture and an organic sensibility, while the window casings and moldings create a tailored look.

    via Pinterest via HomeEdit

    Are my stables just outside to the right?  That’s what I’d expect if this were my foyer. Exposed wood beams, stone floors, a mirrored wall..that amazing neutral and monochrome oriental rug!!
    via DecorPad

    Tired of the same old wainscoting and paint and wallpaper?  Consider shiplap or wood plank walls for a unique and rustic look.  The straight diagonals, verticals, and horizontals keep this hall and staircase crisp and clean.
    via Pinterest via Decoist

  • Does Your House Have Dry Rot Damage – How to Spot It and What to Do About It

    Does Your House Have Dry Rot Damage – How to Spot It and What to Do About It

    Your home is often your pride and joy. You put a lot of work into making sure it is maintained, beautiful, and works for your needs. Over time, issues will arise that need attention, and it’s up to you as a homeowner to identify these possible problems and know how to respond to them.

    timber frames

    One issue that can happen to homes, especially as they age, is dry rot. Because so much of your home is made from wood, it can be prone to dry rot, which will, in turn, affect the structural integrity and strength of the property if serious enough. Knowing how to identify dry rot and understanding the steps you need to take to remedy the situation as quickly as possible will help ensure that your home stays strong.

    Here we’ll take a look at what dry rot is, how to identify it, and what to do about it.

    What Exactly is Dry Rot?

    Dry rot is an issue that affects wood; it is progressive. Dry rot is actually a fungus that spreads through the wood, rotting it as it goes. As the wood rots, it becomes weak, crumbles, and even breaks, which is why it will affect the structural integrity of your home if the damage is extensive. You cannot reverse the process.

    timber frames

    The reason dry rot occurs is because moisture has somehow gotten into the wood. As the moisture spreads through the wood, the rot is able to continue damaging more and more of the structure as it goes.

    What Does Dry Rot Look Like?

    So, how can you tell if you have dry rot? It’s actually pretty easy to detect to the naked eye. Typically, there is no need to have a professional come out and determine whether or not you’ve got dry rot.

    timber frames
    MC513

    The red flags you want to look for are areas of timber that look damaged. The damaged area turns brown and has broken and crumbled pieces around it. There may also be grey strands on the timber and even spore dust that is brown or orange in color. Not to worry, the dust is typically harmless.

    What to Do About Dry Rot?

    Fixing dry rot should actually be a two-step process. You want to fix the area that is damaged and replace the compromised wood, plus you want to take preventative measures to ensure the moisture no longer seeps into the wood, therefore, stopping dry rot from happening again. This means eliminating or at least reducing excess moisture.

    timber frames

    Often it can be best to call in a professional to assess the damage and then make the necessary repairs. This ensures the job is done correctly, the house keeps its structural integrity, and further issues with moisture are remedied.

    Don’t Let It Go

    When it comes to dry rot, it should be taken as a serious issue. Leaving it unresolved will allow the dry rot to progress and in serious cases, affect the structural integrity of your home making it unsafe to live in.

    timber frames

    Thanks to Sacramento Handyman for partnering with us on this post

  • Ideas for Expanding Your Home

    Ideas for Expanding Your Home

    There is nothing quite like having your own home. Your house is your castle and you are free to make whatever changes you see fit. This allows for all sorts of customizations which add value to the house, but mostly make it more livable. Most people will remodel the kitchen or knock down walls, but why stop there? Adding new rooms or additions to the house will help give it a unique charm, expand interior floor space, and offer new customization options. Here are just a few ideas for ways you can expand your home.

     

    First: Consider Your Property Lines

    Obviously, when thinking about making an addition to your home, you have to keep the property lines in mind. You do not want to completely obliterate the back yard, and even if that is your goal, taking up too much space can mean no more room to grow in the future. You will want to keep some space between property lines and your home regardless, as this provides room for contractors to work in. Not just builders, but any future contractors you may need to bring in for whatever reason.

    Second: Consult with a Professional

    When considering an addition to your house, consult with a professional architect. They can take a look at the layout of your existing home and make recommendations to keep your addition aesthetically pleasing while delivering what you are after. Note that we cannot guarantee that everything you want is possible with your existing home, but if it is – a professional will figure it out.

    Start from the Back

    The most common starting point for additions is to look into the back yard. Patios, pavilions, or a simple entryway in the back can help connect your home to the yard. In fact, depending on how you structure and organize the addition, you may even be able to create the sensation of your home spilling out into the yard. This can be an excellent addition for a kitchen – creating an outdoorsy space to enjoy your meal.

    Consider Building Up

    This depends on your foundation and local building codes, but other than those there is nothing stopping you from building up. This idea can be especially good if you are running out of room to expand. You have a number of design choices available if you choose to add a second floor to your building. Balconies are popular additions once you have some living areas constructed. It can also be a way to feel on top of the world when working from a home office.

     

    Keep Function in Mind

    When making any additions to your house, keep the function of these additions in mind. Having an idea of what you want that you do not have will inform your architectural decisions. Let your mind go wild when thinking of these additions, and only take the time to temper them down when it comes time to plan out the addition.

     

    Do Not Neglect the Basics

    When you are planning an addition to the home, it can be easy to forget the basics. Remember that you want any comforts available now to remain available throughout the home. This means remembering the electrical systems, cable systems, and of course climate control. Speak with your service providers to get recommendations about how to make sure these services remain available with any addition to your home. This is especially the case with climate control – consider a mini-split system so you do not have go through the trouble of installing potentially expensive ductwork. Cable lines should be run to the new room if it is closed in, along with electrical outlets. Though obviously, an outdoor room might do better without if it is not water-tight – consult with your local contractors when thinking about your addition to make sure your new room is as comfortable as the rest of the house!

    this post in consideration with adamsairconditioning.net

  • Ideas for decorating around exposed brick

    Ideas for decorating around exposed brick

    Exposed Brick

    Exposed brick is a beautiful thing.  Being a beautiful thing you can just leave it on it’s own to shine, but setting it off with great decor, lighting, and furniture arrangement is paying it the homage it deserves.  The spaces below do just that.

    exposed brick

    I love that the brick in this room is made more sophisticated by moulding and columns.  Adding the floating shelves between columns is a nice touch too.

    exposed brick

    How STUNNING is that chest? And the play of all the linear directions between the chest, brick, and shutter is really cool too.  It’s also inspired me to re-style my shelves and dressers!

    2 images above via DecorPad

    exposed brick

    In this entryway the modern wallpaper with the aged brick is a beautiful contrast.

    exposed brick

    Painting this brick white keeps it from clashing too much with the polished counter top.

    exposed brick

    I love the simplicity of this space and the mixed materials between the fireplace, brick, wood, and glass.

    exposed brick

    Modern but warm

    4 images above via Dering Hall

    Want more brick?  Check out Brick and Wood

     

  • Utilizing space: Extra space worth using!

    Utilizing space: Extra space worth using!

    Utilizing Space

    I love natural light in a home and tall ceilings can add to that by making a room feel large and bright. A great way to add some of that in a smaller home is doing a loft conversion. Opening up an attic and using that space can really add a lot to a home.

    That extra space could go towards adding more square footage and creating a room in the attic! With a nice sky light window you can open up a small space with gorgeous natural light.

    Using the natural shape of the extra space can create some stunning designs. Some people are nervous about loft conversions but using a specialist can make this transformation easy with as little disruption as possible.

    Some spaces are large enough to convert into an entire loft apartment. Using a wall of windows really makes this space feel more like a getaway than an attic!

    Another option would be to just open up the space. This kitchen hardly feels small with the tall ceilings and windows.

  • Farmhouse inspiration: A charming upstate farm retreat

    Farmhouse inspiration: A charming upstate farm retreat

    Farmhouse Inspiration

    It’s a dream of all (admit it, all) NYC dwellers to have a country retreat. Kathryn Windley was no exception to the rule. She was tired of her grueling hours as an art director for a Manhattan ad agencies, and was recently divorced. She added a new twist to the New Yorker turned farmer by actually marrying the realtor who found her the property a few years later on the 20-acre grounds!

    This living room is kept bright and cheery by the white upholstery and brightly striped rug.

    In NYC, unless you pay for a separate studio, on never has space in their apartment for a studio.
    One day I hope to have the space to paint and draw again.

     

     

    The barn is actually a garage they designed to look like a barn.

    I adore this kitchen, and Kathryn claims the farmhouse sink is what sold her on the property.  The runner was a once a damaged full-sized carpet she had cut and bound to fit the kitchen.

    What do you think?

    Read the full story and see more at Country Living

  • Elegant dining rooms that are also comfortable and relaxed

    Elegant dining rooms that are also comfortable and relaxed

    Elegant Dining Rooms

    Lush velvet chairs evoke glamour and comfort, charcoal walls and a gold pendant add edge.

    Fun artwork and modern foil wallpaper keep this space from being stuffy.

    A circular table is instantly cozier than a rectangular one, while the details on that amazing settee scream sophistication.

    This dining room is a hybrid home library and eating space.  Not a conventional pairing, but I love it.

    A velvet upholstered banquette and a Saarinen table?  Yes please!

    Modern traditional dining furniture in an industrial loft makes for quite a cool space for dining.

    via Decor Pad

  • Considering the Open Concept Layout

    Considering the Open Concept Layout

    An oldie but a goodie for you on this Thursday!
    Now that hubby and I are not longer spending every spare moment wedding planning, we are finally thinking about improvements that we’d like to make to our home.  Our house it a 50s rambler, and while it doesn’t have the bones these amazing spaces do, we are still thinking about knocking down some walls to create a more open and modern space.
    Has anyone here remodeled for a more open layout?  Were you happy with the results?
  • Modern Rustic Inspiration

    Modern Rustic Inspiration

    Growing up on a farm, I feel at home in a rustic interior.  That being said, I also like interiors that are uncluttered and have very clean lines.  One doesn’t easily find a straight line in nature, so in my eyes blending straight, clean lines with natural organic elements is an art form.  Here are some interiors that I think perfectly blend modern with rustic.

    Yes. Dark hardwood floors.  Tons of natural light. Textured wide wood plank ceilings. Sliding barn doors. YES.

    via Pinterest via Tidbits and Twine

    I think this is Meg Ryan’s kitchen.  Love all of the white and wooden beams.
    via DecorPad

    You can also successfully incorporate bright colors in a neutral palette.  I’d personally use the brights as accents or pops of color.
    via Home Adore

    Man oh man.  I’d be getting dirty A LOT just to spend more time in this bathroom.  Pepple tile on the floor, copper tub, wide wood plank walls, exposed brick….!!
    via Pinterest via BlogLovin

    This bedroom is styled to the hilt but I’m a sucker for a pretty bed.  The headboard brings in texture and an organic sensibility, while the window casings and moldings create a tailored look.

    via Pinterest via HomeEdit

    Are my stables just outside to the right?  That’s what I’d expect if this were my foyer. Exposed wood beams, stone floors, a mirrored wall..that amazing neutral and monochrome oriental rug!!
    via DecorPad

    Tired of the same old wainscoting and paint and wallpaper?  Consider shiplap or wood plank walls for a unique and rustic look.  The straight diagonals, verticals, and horizontals keep this hall and staircase crisp and clean.
    via Pinterest via Decoist

  • Elegant dining rooms that are also comfortable and relaxed

    Lush velvet chairs evoke glamour and comfort, charcoal walls and a gold pendant add edge.

    Fun artwork and modern foil wallpaper keep this space from being stuffy.

    A circular table is instantly cozier than a rectangular one, while the details on that amazing settee scream sophistication.

    This dining room is a hybrid home library and eating space.  Not a conventional pairing, but I love it.

    A velvet upholstered banquette and a Saarinen table?  Yes please!

    Modern traditional dining furniture in an industrial loft makes for quite a cool space for dining.

    via Decor Pad