1.27.2010

Do’s and Don’ts of Design…Lighting

DO Have use multiple “levels” of light in your room.

Use a combination of overhead lighting for general illumination and table lamps to create a glow and warmth around the room.

DON’T Purchase “boxed” matching sets of lamps.

Matching is a thing of the past. Use one common “theme” to coordinate your different lighting elements. Shop around for great sales on singular lamps, just make sure at least one element is the same in all – such as finish or lampshade.

DO Make sure the bottom of the shade is about even with your cheekbone when you're sitting on the chair or sofa that the lamp will be placed next to.

No one wants a light bulb in their eyes when trying to read.

DON’T Forget to take the dimensions of your table with you when lamp shopping.

The diameter of the lamp shade should never be larger than the table it’s sitting on.

1.20.2010

Finds Under $50 - Great "pear"ings

This is a great, inexpensive (and edible) accessory for any room. Fill a simple glass vase with the fruit of your choice - we chose pears of course...


We all know Ikea is a great place for steals and deals. But 2 ready to hang pieces of contemporary Pear artwork for under $40 is even amazing by their standards!


These Pear vases from Chiasso would look great as a Dining Room centerpiece or on your fireplace mantle. The great thing about single flower vases is you can simply change out the floral and have a whole new look instantly!


Tune in next week for Do's and Don'ts of Design!

1.15.2010

Designing your Home around your pets

As a pet owner and lover (we have 3 Akitas and 1 guinea pig in our home), I found this to be an interesting article:

http://blog.frusterio.com/home-design/designing-your-home-around-pets/

I always find myself designing my rooms around my pets! For instance, we chose a leather sectional sofa for our Living Room to help manage pet hair issues (much easier to brush the hair off of leather I have learned over the years). The main flooring in our home is tile, we have very little wall-to-wall carpet. We love our pets and view them as family, so why wouldn't we have them in mind when designing our home?

What are some things YOU have done to decorate with your pets in mind?