interior design home

Whether you are just moving in to a new place or you are trying to update your home decor, you may find yourself faced with a kitchen that needs a new touch. Even more daunting is when you find that you are facing this task while on a particularly tight budget. Kitchen designs can be quite expensive, after all, once you get down to it and add up the many, many little costs which accumulate during the process. And that is not even considering the larger costs!

Luckily, a little bit of creative thinking and design work, you can overcome even some fairly strict financial constraints and still come out with a great kitchen. The trick is to find kitchen designs which you can complete while incorporating existing fixtures with as little alteration as possible.

That may sound like it contradicts itself. After all, if your kitchen designs use things you already have and strive not to do much in the way of changing them, then can it really be considered a new design? It certainly can, and the reasons behind this can be found when you consider the objectives closely. The first objective is to use items and features you already have. This does not necessarily mean things that are currently in your kitchen. This can be something which is in another room entirely, or something which was put into disuse due to redesigning in other areas of your home.

An elegant, beautifully carved wooden wall clock, for instance, may not be appropriate for you living room under a new design, but it can easily be the central piece for a number of different kitchen designs. For instance, dark wood on the clock can inspire the use of dark tones throughout your kitchen. A coat of chocolate brown or deep maroon paint on your kitchen walls can serve to carry over the deep, rich tones of the wood into the rest of the room. Even simply changing the color of a few tings, such as drapes and trim, can be enough if your kitchen already has a dark color scheme.

The second objective is to make as few changes as possible to existing fixtures. This is the real hinging point of inexpensive kitchen designs. This does not mean that you should not make any changes. This simply means that while you are making changes, you should be sure to make every change count. For instance, if your clock from the previous example has gold hands, or even just gold trim, then you should simply consider changing the hardware on your cabinets to be gold in color.

If you have wooden cabinets that are a few shades off of the clock's color, then simply apply a little bit of stain to the cabinets (or, in fact, to the clock) to make the match. You might also want to bring in other items that work into the clocks colors or style, such as other wooden carvings. Now, obviously, this process can apply to kitchen designs which do not revolve around clocks. Simply apply these two objectives to your design, and you are well on your way.

Copyright © Jared Winston, 2006. All Rights Reserved. Interior Design can be a tricky subject for some, but it doesn't have to be! Restful Home is a resource that discusses everything from living room design ideas to more practical topics such as kitchen cabinet organizers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jared_Winston

Whether you are just moving in to a new place or you are trying to update your home decor, you may find yourself faced with a kitchen that needs a new touch. Even more daunting is when you find that you are facing this task while on a particularly tight budget. Kitchen designs can be quite expensive, after all, once you get down to it and add up the many, many little costs which accumulate during the process. And that is not even considering the larger costs!

Luckily, a little bit of creative thinking and design work, you can overcome even some fairly strict financial constraints and still come out with a great kitchen. The trick is to find kitchen designs which you can complete while incorporating existing fixtures with as little alteration as possible.

That may sound like it contradicts itself. After all, if your kitchen designs use things you already have and strive not to do much in the way of changing them, then can it really be considered a new design? It certainly can, and the reasons behind this can be found when you consider the objectives closely. The first objective is to use items and features you already have. This does not necessarily mean things that are currently in your kitchen. This can be something which is in another room entirely, or something which was put into disuse due to redesigning in other areas of your home.

An elegant, beautifully carved wooden wall clock, for instance, may not be appropriate for you living room under a new design, but it can easily be the central piece for a number of different kitchen designs. For instance, dark wood on the clock can inspire the use of dark tones throughout your kitchen. A coat of chocolate brown or deep maroon paint on your kitchen walls can serve to carry over the deep, rich tones of the wood into the rest of the room. Even simply changing the color of a few tings, such as drapes and trim, can be enough if your kitchen already has a dark color scheme.

The second objective is to make as few changes as possible to existing fixtures. This is the real hinging point of inexpensive kitchen designs. This does not mean that you should not make any changes. This simply means that while you are making changes, you should be sure to make every change count. For instance, if your clock from the previous example has gold hands, or even just gold trim, then you should simply consider changing the hardware on your cabinets to be gold in color.

If you have wooden cabinets that are a few shades off of the clock's color, then simply apply a little bit of stain to the cabinets (or, in fact, to the clock) to make the match. You might also want to bring in other items that work into the clocks colors or style, such as other wooden carvings. Now, obviously, this process can apply to kitchen designs which do not revolve around clocks. Simply apply these two objectives to your design, and you are well on your way.

Copyright © Jared Winston, 2006. All Rights Reserved. Interior Design can be a tricky subject for some, but it doesn't have to be! Restful Home is a resource that discusses everything from living room design ideas to more practical topics such as kitchen cabinet organizers.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jared_Winston

Sure, lots of furniture is made to be looked at. What it's for, or even how well it's made is sometimes secondary, especially if it's an antique. But there are some folks who prefer to have furniture that is not only nice to look at but something that isn't going to fall apart within a year. Sometimes these two things are hard to get in one piece.

A good example of this is the computer table. If you look through some of the modern furniture catalogues, you'll notice that many of these computer tables are absolutely gorgeous. The finishes are breathtaking and the style itself is cool, to say the least. And then you get them home and find that some of the shelves aren't all that sturdy and the table itself starts to wobble. Yeah, it looks great but you're a little concerned about slapping a PC, printer, scanner and other peripherals on top of this thing.

And then there's that ugly work bench like model that you just want to slap a sheet over because it looks like something that the cat dragged in. But you get it home and find that you can kick it down the stairs, dump hot acid on the table top and throw it out a ten story building from the roof and it doesn't even scratch. Now THAT is a computer table. Why can't we get the two things together?

The problem of functional vs. stylish doesn't just end with computer tables. The one thing that's really hard to find is a very comfortable chair for your computer, especially if you're going to be sitting in it for eight hours a day. Most of the ones you find in office furniture stores look really great. And then you get them home and after about an hour you have to get up. Then you find one of these really comfortable chairs and they're just about the ugliest things you've ever seen. You're just glad that your computer room is out of eye shot from house guests.

Coffee tables are another nightmare. The really stylish coffee tables of today that you find in your chain stores, come with those screw in kind of legs. The finishes are real pretty but don't go moving that table around too much because those legs are going to fall off for sure. The surfaces are also beautiful but don't go banging on them with anything harder than a number two pencil. They scratch if you just look at them funny. And then there are those really well made antique coffee tables. These are the ones that your grandmother had. They look as ugly as sin and if you banged your knee into it you'd probably break it. Not the table, your knee.

Yeah, it would be nice if somebody would make a chair, a table, a cabinet, or anything for that matter that could take the punishment of everyday life and didn't look like it came delivered to you from the Salvation Army.

Maybe someday.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Furniture

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

Sure, lots of furniture is made to be looked at. What it's for, or even how well it's made is sometimes secondary, especially if it's an antique. But there are some folks who prefer to have furniture that is not only nice to look at but something that isn't going to fall apart within a year. Sometimes these two things are hard to get in one piece.

A good example of this is the computer table. If you look through some of the modern furniture catalogues, you'll notice that many of these computer tables are absolutely gorgeous. The finishes are breathtaking and the style itself is cool, to say the least. And then you get them home and find that some of the shelves aren't all that sturdy and the table itself starts to wobble. Yeah, it looks great but you're a little concerned about slapping a PC, printer, scanner and other peripherals on top of this thing.

And then there's that ugly work bench like model that you just want to slap a sheet over because it looks like something that the cat dragged in. But you get it home and find that you can kick it down the stairs, dump hot acid on the table top and throw it out a ten story building from the roof and it doesn't even scratch. Now THAT is a computer table. Why can't we get the two things together?

The problem of functional vs. stylish doesn't just end with computer tables. The one thing that's really hard to find is a very comfortable chair for your computer, especially if you're going to be sitting in it for eight hours a day. Most of the ones you find in office furniture stores look really great. And then you get them home and after about an hour you have to get up. Then you find one of these really comfortable chairs and they're just about the ugliest things you've ever seen. You're just glad that your computer room is out of eye shot from house guests.

Coffee tables are another nightmare. The really stylish coffee tables of today that you find in your chain stores, come with those screw in kind of legs. The finishes are real pretty but don't go moving that table around too much because those legs are going to fall off for sure. The surfaces are also beautiful but don't go banging on them with anything harder than a number two pencil. They scratch if you just look at them funny. And then there are those really well made antique coffee tables. These are the ones that your grandmother had. They look as ugly as sin and if you banged your knee into it you'd probably break it. Not the table, your knee.

Yeah, it would be nice if somebody would make a chair, a table, a cabinet, or anything for that matter that could take the punishment of everyday life and didn't look like it came delivered to you from the Salvation Army.

Maybe someday.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Furniture

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Russell

One of the greatest advantages of laminate flooring is the sheer selection of different patterns you can have on it. While real wood flooring comes in one look – that is, wood – laminate can have almost anything on it. It is, after all, just a picture printed on a piece of fibreboard, and it’s not difficult to get photos of different materials, even very exotic ones.

Wood effect floors are obviously the most popular, but they don’t necessarily have to be natural-looking wood. Many people go for wood-effect floors in odd colours, such as blue or black, or ones that fit together to make a big picture that would never occur in nature.

After wood patterns, the second most popular thing to have on laminate is stone. Stone-pattern laminate can be surprisingly convincing if it is well printed and put together, and gives your home a great ‘old castle’ look and feel. You don’t get the uneven surface of stone, but then again many people see that as an advantage over real stone – and the floor doesn’t get really cold in the winter, either!

Ceramic is another popular option, especially when it has been fitted with a damp-proof membrane for use in bathrooms and kitchens. It recreates the look of a tile floor, but without the dangers of slipping when it gets wet, or the tendency of tiles to collect dirt and other nasty things in the cracks between them.

But there are plenty of designs that are more unusual than this – far too many to list here, in fact. The best thing to do is to go down to your local laminate flooring showroom, where they will have a whole range of products, from the realistic to the simply ridiculous. Once you realise that you’re no longer limited about what your floor could look like, it can be very liberating from a design point of view.

John Gibb is the owner of http://www.Laminate-Flooring-resource2k.info

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Gibb

One of the greatest advantages of laminate flooring is the sheer selection of different patterns you can have on it. While real wood flooring comes in one look – that is, wood – laminate can have almost anything on it. It is, after all, just a picture printed on a piece of fibreboard, and it’s not difficult to get photos of different materials, even very exotic ones.

Wood effect floors are obviously the most popular, but they don’t necessarily have to be natural-looking wood. Many people go for wood-effect floors in odd colours, such as blue or black, or ones that fit together to make a big picture that would never occur in nature.

After wood patterns, the second most popular thing to have on laminate is stone. Stone-pattern laminate can be surprisingly convincing if it is well printed and put together, and gives your home a great ‘old castle’ look and feel. You don’t get the uneven surface of stone, but then again many people see that as an advantage over real stone – and the floor doesn’t get really cold in the winter, either!

Ceramic is another popular option, especially when it has been fitted with a damp-proof membrane for use in bathrooms and kitchens. It recreates the look of a tile floor, but without the dangers of slipping when it gets wet, or the tendency of tiles to collect dirt and other nasty things in the cracks between them.

But there are plenty of designs that are more unusual than this – far too many to list here, in fact. The best thing to do is to go down to your local laminate flooring showroom, where they will have a whole range of products, from the realistic to the simply ridiculous. Once you realise that you’re no longer limited about what your floor could look like, it can be very liberating from a design point of view.

John Gibb is the owner of http://www.Laminate-Flooring-resource2k.info

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Gibb

You’ve moved your family and furniture into your newly constructed home, hung a few pictures, organized the closets and met the neighbors. Now that you’re settled into your new home, you probably want to begin personalizing your new space. And what better decorating tool to use than paint?

Many new home designs are based on an open floor plan and homeowners often ask “How do I incorporate color in one room and not impact on adjacent rooms?”. An easy way to add color to your living space is to paint an accent wall with a bold or interesting color and paint the walls that flow to other rooms a more neutral hue. This spark of color will brighten your living space and not create an uneven balance within the adjacent areas.

Here are a few pointers from the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute that will help with your interior painting project.

Instructional Ideas
Follow the simple 4 steps below and achieve a terrific paint finish.

1. Prepare the Surface
Good preparation requires that the surface be clean and sound. Check for handprints, greasy fingerprints as well as dirt and scuff marks. Any glossy spots that will be painted should be lightly sanded so the new paint will adhere properly.

2. Pick the Correct Tools
Use quality brushes and rollers. For latex paint application, purchase synthetic materials. They will hold their shape and maintain the proper stiffness when used with water-based paints. Make sure the nap length of the roller you choose is appropriate for the type of surface being painted. The general rule is the smoother the surface, the shorter the nap; the rougher the surface, the longer the nap.

3. Decide on the Appropriate Paint Sheen and Color
The use of color is one of the quickest and least expensive ways to change the look of a living space. If you’re unsure of which color to use, purchase small quantities of a few you like and try them out in the room you will be painting. View the color in both daylight and at night; the color may appear different based on the lighting within the space.

Sheen is another factor. Higher sheen paints tend to offer a bit more durability than flat paints and are appropriate in areas that get a lot of use. Satin or low lustre finishes tend to impart more warmth and depth to a room than a flat paint. And, don’t forget the ceiling, it’s a great place to use a higher sheen paint for additional lighting reflection.

4. Purchase Quality Paints
Finally, always purchase a top quality acrylic latex interior paint. A quality latex paint will go on smoothly and offers soap and water clean-up and lasting beauty.

For more information on paint and paint trends, visit
The Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute at www.paintquality.com

Home Decorating Digest - http://www.HomeDecoratingDigest.com is an online magazine that helps homeowners find home decorating ideas and feature articles on style, color and interior design. Get decorating basics, do-it-yourself projects, organizing and outdoor garden design tips.

You’ve moved your family and furniture into your newly constructed home, hung a few pictures, organized the closets and met the neighbors. Now that you’re settled into your new home, you probably want to begin personalizing your new space. And what better decorating tool to use than paint?

Many new home designs are based on an open floor plan and homeowners often ask “How do I incorporate color in one room and not impact on adjacent rooms?”. An easy way to add color to your living space is to paint an accent wall with a bold or interesting color and paint the walls that flow to other rooms a more neutral hue. This spark of color will brighten your living space and not create an uneven balance within the adjacent areas.

Here are a few pointers from the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute that will help with your interior painting project.

Instructional Ideas
Follow the simple 4 steps below and achieve a terrific paint finish.

1. Prepare the Surface
Good preparation requires that the surface be clean and sound. Check for handprints, greasy fingerprints as well as dirt and scuff marks. Any glossy spots that will be painted should be lightly sanded so the new paint will adhere properly.

2. Pick the Correct Tools
Use quality brushes and rollers. For latex paint application, purchase synthetic materials. They will hold their shape and maintain the proper stiffness when used with water-based paints. Make sure the nap length of the roller you choose is appropriate for the type of surface being painted. The general rule is the smoother the surface, the shorter the nap; the rougher the surface, the longer the nap.

3. Decide on the Appropriate Paint Sheen and Color
The use of color is one of the quickest and least expensive ways to change the look of a living space. If you’re unsure of which color to use, purchase small quantities of a few you like and try them out in the room you will be painting. View the color in both daylight and at night; the color may appear different based on the lighting within the space.

Sheen is another factor. Higher sheen paints tend to offer a bit more durability than flat paints and are appropriate in areas that get a lot of use. Satin or low lustre finishes tend to impart more warmth and depth to a room than a flat paint. And, don’t forget the ceiling, it’s a great place to use a higher sheen paint for additional lighting reflection.

4. Purchase Quality Paints
Finally, always purchase a top quality acrylic latex interior paint. A quality latex paint will go on smoothly and offers soap and water clean-up and lasting beauty.

For more information on paint and paint trends, visit
The Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute at www.paintquality.com

Home Decorating Digest - http://www.HomeDecoratingDigest.com is an online magazine that helps homeowners find home decorating ideas and feature articles on style, color and interior design. Get decorating basics, do-it-yourself projects, organizing and outdoor garden design tips.

So, you want to design your bedroom. Hmm... looks like youare serious about it.

Lets' get started quickly. whenever I hear someone sayhe/she wants to design/decorate a bedroom a lot of thingscome to my mind.

But, let me clear one thing, design and decorating are twodifferent aspects. When I say design, I mean a whole lotbigger perspective. Design includes a lot more maturity interms of how you perceive a space from within.

Of course I will cover more about design in some other article.Decoration is more close to everyday actions that can betaken in order to change or alter a space. Decoration deals with accessories used in a space. Very small things, such ascurtain rods, their color, lampshades, small statues, tablecloths, light fittings, are all parts of the detailing.

It is not that design does not deal with these aspects, butdecoration is more do-able easily than the whole designprocess.

If you are not aware of the decoration techniques, or where to start, I will give you a list of some place whereyou can observe and get inspiration.

1)Of course, the World Wide Web: this Internet is a good place to start. But the information on the internet is not always compiled and sorted out, the way you want it to be, so you might have to look deep.

2)Local Book stores: Interior design

magazines, books, brochures from furniture manufacturers is a good source of inspiration. These books and magazines do their best to find out Works of successful designers, which can be quite inspiring.

3)Exhibitions: Exhibitions held by manufacturers of interior design products, can be a good source as well.

4)Movies and TV shows: Yes, these have a very high project budgets, so spend thousands of dollars every year to decorate the sets. Just keep your eyes open and you will definitely find some good themes in these too. 5)Look for hobby groups around in your city, look for seminars of those who are successful artists. Bedroom decoration includes detailing and paying attention to small things. Visit art galleries, where you can find some good paintings, other related artwork, which can enhance the beauty of your space.

Finally I would like to say that it's your room and youare the only person who knows better about your likes anddislikes. So start out immediately because "When There IsWill, There Is A Way". Copyright 2005 Shrinivas Vaidya
About the Author

Shrinivas Vaidya is the webmaster of Bedroom-Design-And-Decorating-Ideas.com .Visit TODAY to get an in-depth knowledge of Bedroom Design, Bedroom Furniture Sets, Bedroom Decorating Ideas

***************************************************
* Article Source: Michael Russell
* Your Interior Design Guide
* Visit us for more information.
***************************************************

So, you want to design your bedroom. Hmm... looks like youare serious about it.

Lets' get started quickly. whenever I hear someone sayhe/she wants to design/decorate a bedroom a lot of thingscome to my mind.

But, let me clear one thing, design and decorating are twodifferent aspects. When I say design, I mean a whole lotbigger perspective. Design includes a lot more maturity interms of how you perceive a space from within.

Of course I will cover more about design in some other article.Decoration is more close to everyday actions that can betaken in order to change or alter a space. Decoration deals with accessories used in a space. Very small things, such ascurtain rods, their color, lampshades, small statues, tablecloths, light fittings, are all parts of the detailing.

It is not that design does not deal with these aspects, butdecoration is more do-able easily than the whole designprocess.

If you are not aware of the decoration techniques, or where to start, I will give you a list of some place whereyou can observe and get inspiration.

1)Of course, the World Wide Web: this Internet is a good place to start. But the information on the internet is not always compiled and sorted out, the way you want it to be, so you might have to look deep.

2)Local Book stores: Interior design

magazines, books, brochures from furniture manufacturers is a good source of inspiration. These books and magazines do their best to find out Works of successful designers, which can be quite inspiring.

3)Exhibitions: Exhibitions held by manufacturers of interior design products, can be a good source as well.

4)Movies and TV shows: Yes, these have a very high project budgets, so spend thousands of dollars every year to decorate the sets. Just keep your eyes open and you will definitely find some good themes in these too. 5)Look for hobby groups around in your city, look for seminars of those who are successful artists. Bedroom decoration includes detailing and paying attention to small things. Visit art galleries, where you can find some good paintings, other related artwork, which can enhance the beauty of your space.

Finally I would like to say that it's your room and youare the only person who knows better about your likes anddislikes. So start out immediately because "When There IsWill, There Is A Way". Copyright 2005 Shrinivas Vaidya
About the Author

Shrinivas Vaidya is the webmaster of Bedroom-Design-And-Decorating-Ideas.com .Visit TODAY to get an in-depth knowledge of Bedroom Design, Bedroom Furniture Sets, Bedroom Decorating Ideas

***************************************************
* Article Source: Michael Russell
* Your Interior Design Guide
* Visit us for more information.
***************************************************

Many people don't think twice about the lamps and lights in their home. When you're trying to spruce up your decor though, or creating a brand new decorating theme, one of the best places to start is with lamps... because they can be both beautiful and functional at the same time.

Here are several popular types of lamps to consider when decorating a room in your home:

Table Lamps - Table lamps are wonderful for both decorating and functionality. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, and can really accent specialty decor pieces you might already have. Small table lamps are quite decorative when sat upon a stack of hardback books, and large table lamps make great centerpieces for greenery, knick knack arrangements, or keepsakes.

You'll want to be careful not to overwhelm small, dainty tables with large, bulky, overbearing lamps though. A solid rustic wood table would easily carry a large wood table lamp, but a small victorian-style side table would do better with a delicate-looking tiffany or hurricane table lamp.

Floor Lamps - Floor lamps are excellent for adding both additional light and style to various areas of your home. I particularly like them in reading areas. Place a nice comfortable chair or divan in the corner for instance, away from the walls a bit, then place a decorative floor lamp in the corner space behind it. This will create a cozy, inviting feel to the space while also providing extra light for reading, writing, or knitting.

Wall Lamps & Lights - Lighting used on the wall varies in style. There's recessed lights which are helpful and decorative in kitchen areas or bathrooms for instance, and there are wall sconces which are wonderful for adding warmth and ambiance.

For a unique and different look, try creating a wall arrangement using wall sconces instead of candelabras or candle sconces.

Picture Lights - Picture lights are used primarily to highlight pictures and artwork in your home. These work similar to spotlights by focusing the majority of their light on the artwork. Most are very decorative, and they come in a variety of styles to match whatever your decorating theme might be.

Oil Lamps - Oil lamps can still be bought in many places today. Some are replicas, meaning they don't actual burn oil to create light, they simply look like the oil lamps of old. Others actually do have a wick and can burn oil. Most people use the actual oil burning lamps for decoration only, and you can even buy colored oil to fill the lamps for an additional decorative touch.

© 2006, Kathy Burns-Millyard. Looking for new lamps, lights and accessories? Visit the Lamps & Lighting Boutique at the Do It Yourself Home Decorating Network to browse a selection of thousands.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathy_Burns-Millyard

Many people don't think twice about the lamps and lights in their home. When you're trying to spruce up your decor though, or creating a brand new decorating theme, one of the best places to start is with lamps... because they can be both beautiful and functional at the same time.

Here are several popular types of lamps to consider when decorating a room in your home:

Table Lamps - Table lamps are wonderful for both decorating and functionality. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, and can really accent specialty decor pieces you might already have. Small table lamps are quite decorative when sat upon a stack of hardback books, and large table lamps make great centerpieces for greenery, knick knack arrangements, or keepsakes.

You'll want to be careful not to overwhelm small, dainty tables with large, bulky, overbearing lamps though. A solid rustic wood table would easily carry a large wood table lamp, but a small victorian-style side table would do better with a delicate-looking tiffany or hurricane table lamp.

Floor Lamps - Floor lamps are excellent for adding both additional light and style to various areas of your home. I particularly like them in reading areas. Place a nice comfortable chair or divan in the corner for instance, away from the walls a bit, then place a decorative floor lamp in the corner space behind it. This will create a cozy, inviting feel to the space while also providing extra light for reading, writing, or knitting.

Wall Lamps & Lights - Lighting used on the wall varies in style. There's recessed lights which are helpful and decorative in kitchen areas or bathrooms for instance, and there are wall sconces which are wonderful for adding warmth and ambiance.

For a unique and different look, try creating a wall arrangement using wall sconces instead of candelabras or candle sconces.

Picture Lights - Picture lights are used primarily to highlight pictures and artwork in your home. These work similar to spotlights by focusing the majority of their light on the artwork. Most are very decorative, and they come in a variety of styles to match whatever your decorating theme might be.

Oil Lamps - Oil lamps can still be bought in many places today. Some are replicas, meaning they don't actual burn oil to create light, they simply look like the oil lamps of old. Others actually do have a wick and can burn oil. Most people use the actual oil burning lamps for decoration only, and you can even buy colored oil to fill the lamps for an additional decorative touch.

© 2006, Kathy Burns-Millyard. Looking for new lamps, lights and accessories? Visit the Lamps & Lighting Boutique at the Do It Yourself Home Decorating Network to browse a selection of thousands.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathy_Burns-Millyard

If you feel helpless when it comes to picking and blending colors, your answer could be as far away as your nearest pillow. Here is a quick way to create a color scheme for your home with PICK - SEE -LMD .

PICK a Pattern: Starting with a pattern is the easiest way to create a color palette for your decor. Choose a pattern from any object you already have and love such as a pillow, picture or piece of furniture. This will be your color palette !


SEE 3 Colors: Select a light, medium and dark color from your pattern to be used as your foundation. You may want to go to a hardware store and select color chips from the paint department that match your pattern to carry with you in case you come across a great find and need to know if it matches.

LMD: Light, Medium and Dark - How you use these colors can affect the overall appearance of your room.

* Light- Is the Background- this is usually easy to achieve since most rentals
are equipped with light to off-white walls.
* Medium- Large furniture and windows - Since the color of these objects will
blend with the above lighter selection, the medium furniture will ground the
room and give it a foundation.
* Darker- Accessories. Since your eye is drawn to a darker more intense color you
will be able to arrange you accessories in a manner to guide the eye flowing
through your room.

PICK - SEE - LMD Use it whenever you are trying to pull together a color coordinated room!

Home Decorating Digest - http://www.HomeDecoratingDigest.com is an online magazine that helps homeowners find home decorating ideas and feature articles on style, color and interior design. Get decorating basics, do-it-yourself projects, organizing and outdoor garden design tips.

If you feel helpless when it comes to picking and blending colors, your answer could be as far away as your nearest pillow. Here is a quick way to create a color scheme for your home with PICK - SEE -LMD .

PICK a Pattern: Starting with a pattern is the easiest way to create a color palette for your decor. Choose a pattern from any object you already have and love such as a pillow, picture or piece of furniture. This will be your color palette !


SEE 3 Colors: Select a light, medium and dark color from your pattern to be used as your foundation. You may want to go to a hardware store and select color chips from the paint department that match your pattern to carry with you in case you come across a great find and need to know if it matches.

LMD: Light, Medium and Dark - How you use these colors can affect the overall appearance of your room.

* Light- Is the Background- this is usually easy to achieve since most rentals
are equipped with light to off-white walls.
* Medium- Large furniture and windows - Since the color of these objects will
blend with the above lighter selection, the medium furniture will ground the
room and give it a foundation.
* Darker- Accessories. Since your eye is drawn to a darker more intense color you
will be able to arrange you accessories in a manner to guide the eye flowing
through your room.

PICK - SEE - LMD Use it whenever you are trying to pull together a color coordinated room!

Home Decorating Digest - http://www.HomeDecoratingDigest.com is an online magazine that helps homeowners find home decorating ideas and feature articles on style, color and interior design. Get decorating basics, do-it-yourself projects, organizing and outdoor garden design tips.

Today, the most popular home decorating ideas fall in the modern style. After all, modern home interior decorating allows for the clearest spaces, which provide the simplest maintenance for homeowners who simply do not have the time to be cleaning up all the time. Home interior decorating in this style is all about removing all signs of clutter and chaos. Instead, straight lines and organization provide a welcome replacement.

Decorating your home in the modern style will fill it will straighter furniture in plainer finishes of dark woods or black paint. The reason for such dark home furnishing decorating is the elegant, sophisticated feel it provides the room. Typically, the number of accessories in this home decorating idea are scarce. Only a few very purposefully placed items will be prominently displayed within the room.

This allows you to spend a bit more on the quality of your home decorating, with a few very special pieces, instead of filling the room with less expensive and less impressive items.

To contrast the dark furniture, interior home decorating in the modern style requires that you use very stark colors. A modern room will be well defined in whites, greens, blacks, and reds. Furthermore, many free home decorating ideas show that the less you add to a room, the better. There will be no throw pillows and blankets on the chairs and sofas, nor will there be ottomans and baskets on the floor.

Many people greatly enjoy the classic, sleek modern home decorating style for its tasteful simplicity. It permits the most openness and space for hosting parties, and the least time for cleaning and maintaining. If you are among these people, enjoy these home decorating tips, and carefully plan your design. Remember, since there is no room for additional clutter, you need to make your choices ahead of time, so that you can add the least amount possible, and create the largest impact.

Article Source: http://www.articlecube.com

Today, the most popular home decorating ideas fall in the modern style. After all, modern home interior decorating allows for the clearest spaces, which provide the simplest maintenance for homeowners who simply do not have the time to be cleaning up all the time. Home interior decorating in this style is all about removing all signs of clutter and chaos. Instead, straight lines and organization provide a welcome replacement.

Decorating your home in the modern style will fill it will straighter furniture in plainer finishes of dark woods or black paint. The reason for such dark home furnishing decorating is the elegant, sophisticated feel it provides the room. Typically, the number of accessories in this home decorating idea are scarce. Only a few very purposefully placed items will be prominently displayed within the room.

This allows you to spend a bit more on the quality of your home decorating, with a few very special pieces, instead of filling the room with less expensive and less impressive items.

To contrast the dark furniture, interior home decorating in the modern style requires that you use very stark colors. A modern room will be well defined in whites, greens, blacks, and reds. Furthermore, many free home decorating ideas show that the less you add to a room, the better. There will be no throw pillows and blankets on the chairs and sofas, nor will there be ottomans and baskets on the floor.

Many people greatly enjoy the classic, sleek modern home decorating style for its tasteful simplicity. It permits the most openness and space for hosting parties, and the least time for cleaning and maintaining. If you are among these people, enjoy these home decorating tips, and carefully plan your design. Remember, since there is no room for additional clutter, you need to make your choices ahead of time, so that you can add the least amount possible, and create the largest impact.

Article Source: http://www.articlecube.com

Natural stones have been used by man throughout centuries primarily due to their beauty, variety and durability. Today as before, their role in interior design cannot be overestimated.

Natural stones can enhance traditional and contemporary interiors in many ways, from marble wall or floor tiles to a limestone windowsill, let alone worktops in the kitchen or bath surrounds and vanity tops in the bathroom. Natural stones also go well with other interior design materials, such as wood or glass.

Even a small piece of quality stonework can make a lot of difference. My favourite examples of stonework for the sitting room are hearths, windowsills and table tops. For the more adventurous, a multi-stone floor inset would easily be the centerpiece of any room. However, nothing beats marble tiled floors, better still if accompanied by skirting made of the same natural stone.

The key is to use quality natural stones with top aesthetical and technical characteristics. Quality of the natural stones is driven by a number of factors, the state of the quarry, quality of the block, quality of the machinery and stone grading process at the cutting factory, commitment to quality of the stone supplier who chooses the quarry/factory/stone. You should ask your stone supplier for advice on different grades of a particular natural stone before you make a final

decision based on quality and budget constraints. Based on my experience, quality should never be compromised.

A fire surround is a good example. In most cases, quality of the natural stone and craftwork play a bigger role that the design itself. There is only one step from a luxurious piece to a tacky one. My favourite stones for luxury fire surrounds include Statuario, White Cappuccino, Rosso Lepante and Portoro. Fire surrounds are made either of slabs or blocks. Most contemporary and some traditional designs can be made of slabs. Generally, a piece made of slabs costs less than one made of a block.

I always use an opportunity to mention marble windowsills. In Sweden, windowsills made of natural stones are as common as snow in the winter. The reasons for that are twofold, decorative effect and practicality (they are hygienic and easy to maintain). I believe that many interior design projects would benefit from the use of marble (or other natural stone) windowsills.

I strongly believe that the use of quality natural stones in interior design is an investment in the property that pays off.

Article Source: Interior Design Guide

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

Natural stones have been used by man throughout centuries primarily due to their beauty, variety and durability. Today as before, their role in interior design cannot be overestimated.

Natural stones can enhance traditional and contemporary interiors in many ways, from marble wall or floor tiles to a limestone windowsill, let alone worktops in the kitchen or bath surrounds and vanity tops in the bathroom. Natural stones also go well with other interior design materials, such as wood or glass.

Even a small piece of quality stonework can make a lot of difference. My favourite examples of stonework for the sitting room are hearths, windowsills and table tops. For the more adventurous, a multi-stone floor inset would easily be the centerpiece of any room. However, nothing beats marble tiled floors, better still if accompanied by skirting made of the same natural stone.

The key is to use quality natural stones with top aesthetical and technical characteristics. Quality of the natural stones is driven by a number of factors, the state of the quarry, quality of the block, quality of the machinery and stone grading process at the cutting factory, commitment to quality of the stone supplier who chooses the quarry/factory/stone. You should ask your stone supplier for advice on different grades of a particular natural stone before you make a final

decision based on quality and budget constraints. Based on my experience, quality should never be compromised.

A fire surround is a good example. In most cases, quality of the natural stone and craftwork play a bigger role that the design itself. There is only one step from a luxurious piece to a tacky one. My favourite stones for luxury fire surrounds include Statuario, White Cappuccino, Rosso Lepante and Portoro. Fire surrounds are made either of slabs or blocks. Most contemporary and some traditional designs can be made of slabs. Generally, a piece made of slabs costs less than one made of a block.

I always use an opportunity to mention marble windowsills. In Sweden, windowsills made of natural stones are as common as snow in the winter. The reasons for that are twofold, decorative effect and practicality (they are hygienic and easy to maintain). I believe that many interior design projects would benefit from the use of marble (or other natural stone) windowsills.

I strongly believe that the use of quality natural stones in interior design is an investment in the property that pays off.

Article Source: Interior Design Guide

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

Decorating and furnishing a small home, apartment or studio can be challenging, but when done correctly by choosing the right furniture and colors, your small spaces will look and feel more spacious.

Try these suggestions for creating more space.

Furnishings
When selecting furniture for your small space choose smaller pieces that have a more open design.

Example:

A love seat with exposed legs, two small side chairs, and a small round glass top coffee table, would be a better choice than, a large sofa with hidden legs, love seat, and a large solid wood coffee table.

Arrangements and Traffic Flow
When arranging your furniture be aware of traffic patterns, all traffic should flow uninterrupted through your room. In a living room start with the sofa or love seat. When arranging your furniture start with the largest piece on the largest wall and facing your focal point. Then create a conversation area. Place a side chair on each side of the Love seat and place your coffee table where it can be reached from all three sitting places.

Accessories and Patterns
In small spaces be careful not to over use accessories. Remember, less is more if you want to create that open feeling. Mirrors and shiny reflective accessories help create the illusion of more space. Larger patterns should be limited to pillows and smaller accessories rather than a large sofa or love seat.

Color
When choosing color schemes, select soft and monochromatic colors.

Use the same or similar colors for your large pieces of furniture and your walls and keep your ceiling lighter than the rest of the room. See Color and Proportions

Lighting
Use a soft even light and eliminate shadows which tend to slice a room up into smaller spaces. Incandescent lighting will also soften a room. Avoid ceiling lighting this will visually lower your ceiling.

Tips
Keep your apartment simple and clean. If you don't need it throw it out!
Clutter free - Stress-free! Less is more !

Home Decorating Digest - http://www.HomeDecoratingDigest.com is an online magazine that helps homeowners find home decorating ideas and feature articles on style, color and interior design. Get decorating basics, do-it-yourself projects, organizing and outdoor garden design tips.

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

Decorating and furnishing a small home, apartment or studio can be challenging, but when done correctly by choosing the right furniture and colors, your small spaces will look and feel more spacious.

Try these suggestions for creating more space.

Furnishings
When selecting furniture for your small space choose smaller pieces that have a more open design.

Example:

A love seat with exposed legs, two small side chairs, and a small round glass top coffee table, would be a better choice than, a large sofa with hidden legs, love seat, and a large solid wood coffee table.

Arrangements and Traffic Flow
When arranging your furniture be aware of traffic patterns, all traffic should flow uninterrupted through your room. In a living room start with the sofa or love seat. When arranging your furniture start with the largest piece on the largest wall and facing your focal point. Then create a conversation area. Place a side chair on each side of the Love seat and place your coffee table where it can be reached from all three sitting places.

Accessories and Patterns
In small spaces be careful not to over use accessories. Remember, less is more if you want to create that open feeling. Mirrors and shiny reflective accessories help create the illusion of more space. Larger patterns should be limited to pillows and smaller accessories rather than a large sofa or love seat.

Color
When choosing color schemes, select soft and monochromatic colors.

Use the same or similar colors for your large pieces of furniture and your walls and keep your ceiling lighter than the rest of the room. See Color and Proportions

Lighting
Use a soft even light and eliminate shadows which tend to slice a room up into smaller spaces. Incandescent lighting will also soften a room. Avoid ceiling lighting this will visually lower your ceiling.

Tips
Keep your apartment simple and clean. If you don't need it throw it out!
Clutter free - Stress-free! Less is more !

Home Decorating Digest - http://www.HomeDecoratingDigest.com is an online magazine that helps homeowners find home decorating ideas and feature articles on style, color and interior design. Get decorating basics, do-it-yourself projects, organizing and outdoor garden design tips.

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

When you are choosing a bathroom light fixtures or lightning for any room in your home, the first thing to take into account is how that room will be used and, thus, the type of lightning you will need. Light is very important in a room, because it affects colors and makes them seem lighter or darker.

Natural light from windows will change the appearance of colors at different times of the day – enlivening them in the morning sun and gradually toning them down as the day progresses.

Artificial lights also affect the colors in a room, making them look lighter or darker. They can also play tricks with colors, sometimes causing dramatic changes a, literally the flick a switch.

Lamps are the most popular choice of lights today and are easy to install, a homeowner can accomplish this by himself in just a few hours. They are a very important part of any home that will beautify and add warmth and elegance for every room in your home.

The possibilities for using home lighting are endless when considering light fixtures to decorate your home and the fun and satisfaction of decorating the interior of your home by yourself will be rewarding.

Lightning can be used to accentuate features in the room in much the same way as colors and patterns. Strategically positioned wall lights, spotlights, uplights, or ceiling downlights can be arranged so that they wash a complete wall with a blanket of light.

They can also be used to good effect to highlight an isolated area, such as a display shelf, or a recess filled with beautiful objects, or to light a work of art such as sculpture or painting.

The days are long gone when it was considered adequate to light a room with a single, central pendant light. In specialist lighting store, you can be overwhelmed by the lightning options open to you. Light fixtures, bulb wattages, and even colored light have been brought into the scheme of things so that, apart from practical values, there is also the esthetic appeal to consider. Lampshades, too, contribute to the interest and atmosphere of the room, coming as they do in a vast choice of shapes, sizes, materials, and colors.

Home Decorating Digest - http://www.HomeDecoratingDigest.com is an online magazine that helps homeowners find home decorating ideas and feature articles on style, color and interior design. Get decorating basics, do-it-yourself projects, organizing and outdoor garden design tips.

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

When you are choosing a bathroom light fixtures or lightning for any room in your home, the first thing to take into account is how that room will be used and, thus, the type of lightning you will need. Light is very important in a room, because it affects colors and makes them seem lighter or darker.

Natural light from windows will change the appearance of colors at different times of the day – enlivening them in the morning sun and gradually toning them down as the day progresses.

Artificial lights also affect the colors in a room, making them look lighter or darker. They can also play tricks with colors, sometimes causing dramatic changes a, literally the flick a switch.

Lamps are the most popular choice of lights today and are easy to install, a homeowner can accomplish this by himself in just a few hours. They are a very important part of any home that will beautify and add warmth and elegance for every room in your home.

The possibilities for using home lighting are endless when considering light fixtures to decorate your home and the fun and satisfaction of decorating the interior of your home by yourself will be rewarding.

Lightning can be used to accentuate features in the room in much the same way as colors and patterns. Strategically positioned wall lights, spotlights, uplights, or ceiling downlights can be arranged so that they wash a complete wall with a blanket of light.

They can also be used to good effect to highlight an isolated area, such as a display shelf, or a recess filled with beautiful objects, or to light a work of art such as sculpture or painting.

The days are long gone when it was considered adequate to light a room with a single, central pendant light. In specialist lighting store, you can be overwhelmed by the lightning options open to you. Light fixtures, bulb wattages, and even colored light have been brought into the scheme of things so that, apart from practical values, there is also the esthetic appeal to consider. Lampshades, too, contribute to the interest and atmosphere of the room, coming as they do in a vast choice of shapes, sizes, materials, and colors.

Home Decorating Digest - http://www.HomeDecoratingDigest.com is an online magazine that helps homeowners find home decorating ideas and feature articles on style, color and interior design. Get decorating basics, do-it-yourself projects, organizing and outdoor garden design tips.

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

One of the most important basics in decorating a small space is to purchase furniture that does double or triple duty for storage. Apartments are notorious for their lack of built-in amenities providing adequate storage. Purchasing multiple purpose accessories and furniture allow options that give your living space character and flexibility.

* SOFA-SLEEPER: A sofa for your living room area might contain a bed for yourself
or unexpected visitors. FUTONS are another avenue for a quick fold out sleeper.

* Tables containing drawers or shelves give you other options further storage.

* BOOKCASES /ARMOIRES with or without doors, can be appropriate for entertainment
centers, home offices, kitchen storage or bedroom storage. Purchasing these items
within your style is a wonderful investment and can be used for multiple purposes.

* BATHROOM STORAGE UNITS are great for under sink storage. These units increase your
storage capacity in a small area. Stores specializing in storage elements can be
found both in large cities and on the internet.

Never underestimate the value of a garage sale. They can be useful for finding items that can be turned into Shabby Chic or re-used furniture accents. With your decorators toolbox, you can be creative and let your imagination take you to new experiences in your apartments and homes.

Home Decorating Digest - http://www.HomeDecoratingDigest.com is an online magazine that helps homeowners find home decorating ideas and feature articles on style, color and interior design. Get decorating basics, do-it-yourself projects, organizing and outdoor garden design tips.

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

One of the most important basics in decorating a small space is to purchase furniture that does double or triple duty for storage. Apartments are notorious for their lack of built-in amenities providing adequate storage. Purchasing multiple purpose accessories and furniture allow options that give your living space character and flexibility.

* SOFA-SLEEPER: A sofa for your living room area might contain a bed for yourself
or unexpected visitors. FUTONS are another avenue for a quick fold out sleeper.

* Tables containing drawers or shelves give you other options further storage.

* BOOKCASES /ARMOIRES with or without doors, can be appropriate for entertainment
centers, home offices, kitchen storage or bedroom storage. Purchasing these items
within your style is a wonderful investment and can be used for multiple purposes.

* BATHROOM STORAGE UNITS are great for under sink storage. These units increase your
storage capacity in a small area. Stores specializing in storage elements can be
found both in large cities and on the internet.

Never underestimate the value of a garage sale. They can be useful for finding items that can be turned into Shabby Chic or re-used furniture accents. With your decorators toolbox, you can be creative and let your imagination take you to new experiences in your apartments and homes.

Home Decorating Digest - http://www.HomeDecoratingDigest.com is an online magazine that helps homeowners find home decorating ideas and feature articles on style, color and interior design. Get decorating basics, do-it-yourself projects, organizing and outdoor garden design tips.

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

There’s nothing quite so attractive as a room lit by the warm, comfortable blow of a table lamp. Positioned on low sofa tables, on shelves, a chest, or a sideboard, a table lamp can be used to illuminate a collection, brighten a dark corner, or provide a pool of light for reading. Table lamps come in all shapes, sizes and styles, so it is easy to find something to suit your room. Lamps, which beam light downwards and sideways, usually fitted with a wide-based shade, are useful if you want to light a table top, or a corner.

Vase-shaped lamps wash light over the wall and ceiling, an attractive way to show off a painting or an interesting architectural feature. Tall standard lamps look best in a corner or behind a chair. A lamp with a traditional shade, or a shade which covers the top of the bulb, beams down, giving a comfortable pool of light just right for reading. Modern standard lamps are starkly stylish, adding interest to a simple, high-tech look room. Many of these lamps are up-lighters and should be positioned so that light washes a wall or the ceiling.

Floor-standing spot-lamps look best hidden behind a display of plants so that light shines through the foliage, throwing delicate leaf shadows on ceiling and walls. Before you buy lamps, look carefully at socket positions. You may need to have extra outlets installed for lamps to be positioned where you want them. Trailing cable is dangerous and tucking cable underneath a carpet or rug can cause a fire. Always have new sockets installed by a professional electrician.

A table lamp with conical shade beams light down, adding instant interest and comfort to a corner. This type of light is the ideal way to illuminate a collection of small boxes, plates or figures arranged on a table, or on a display cabinet. The perfect bedside lamp beams light over just half of the bed, so that one partner can read while the other sleeps. Lamps should be tall enough so that the light falls in exactly the right position for reading but not so that the beam hits the reader in the eye.

Article Source: http://www.articlecube.com

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

There’s nothing quite so attractive as a room lit by the warm, comfortable blow of a table lamp. Positioned on low sofa tables, on shelves, a chest, or a sideboard, a table lamp can be used to illuminate a collection, brighten a dark corner, or provide a pool of light for reading. Table lamps come in all shapes, sizes and styles, so it is easy to find something to suit your room. Lamps, which beam light downwards and sideways, usually fitted with a wide-based shade, are useful if you want to light a table top, or a corner.

Vase-shaped lamps wash light over the wall and ceiling, an attractive way to show off a painting or an interesting architectural feature. Tall standard lamps look best in a corner or behind a chair. A lamp with a traditional shade, or a shade which covers the top of the bulb, beams down, giving a comfortable pool of light just right for reading. Modern standard lamps are starkly stylish, adding interest to a simple, high-tech look room. Many of these lamps are up-lighters and should be positioned so that light washes a wall or the ceiling.

Floor-standing spot-lamps look best hidden behind a display of plants so that light shines through the foliage, throwing delicate leaf shadows on ceiling and walls. Before you buy lamps, look carefully at socket positions. You may need to have extra outlets installed for lamps to be positioned where you want them. Trailing cable is dangerous and tucking cable underneath a carpet or rug can cause a fire. Always have new sockets installed by a professional electrician.

A table lamp with conical shade beams light down, adding instant interest and comfort to a corner. This type of light is the ideal way to illuminate a collection of small boxes, plates or figures arranged on a table, or on a display cabinet. The perfect bedside lamp beams light over just half of the bed, so that one partner can read while the other sleeps. Lamps should be tall enough so that the light falls in exactly the right position for reading but not so that the beam hits the reader in the eye.

Article Source: http://www.articlecube.com

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

Dear friends, successful design is a relative term. What is goodor successful for me may not be so from your point of view.

But when it comes to interior design, there are certain factorswhich are always present no matter what the use of the space is.Let's have a look at the bare minimum design factors a spacemust have so that it can be called a comfortable and habitablespace.

1) Proportions of the room.

The word "proportions" is always used in the design field. Everyinterior space which is being used by humans must beproportionate. Proportions are extremely important in anydesign.

Every 3 dimensional object has properties such as length, widthand height. When these 3 are in accordance with the proportionsof various parts of human body we call it a "proportionate"design.

For example a handle of a wardrobe must have dimensions suchthat our fingers can hold it properly for effortless and smoothaction. or a chair seat must have enough are so that we can sitcomfortably. Again the type of seating will change thedimensions of the chair. A chair in waiting lobby of a bank willbe different than a sofa.

So proportions play a major role in interior design andfurniture in your bedroom must also follow these rules. Thedimensions of the double bed, it's height from floor level,height of wardrobe, dimensions of dressing table, etc...allthese matter as far as function is concerned.

2) Natural light entering the room.

There is no alternative for naturally lit spaces. Sun being thestrongest source of light and also helps to keep the biologicalbalance of the planet Earth, it is very much necessary in theinterior spaces.

Study shows that natural light can penetrate in an interiorspace up to 20 feet (Approx. 7 meters). Using appropriateposition for window opening can easily achieve this.

3) Natural Ventilation

A free and unobstructed flow of air can be a great way to keepthe atmosphere cool and clean in an interior space. This ispossible where bedrooms are located at the corner of thebuilding where 2 sides of the bedrooms have external faces.

Where it is not possible to provide windows on adjacent faces oropposite faces, a ventilator above the window is used. Theconcept behind the ventilator is simple. The lower half thebedroom height is always used by the habitants. Because of theconstant use of this are the air temperature rises and

airbecomes light weight.

This hot air rises above and must need an escape. At such timesventilators above the window openings play a major role ofcirculating the flow through the room in an upward direction.When the lower portion of the room becomes empty fresh air fromwindow takes its position, thus maintaining a balance.

4) Clear Movement Patterns.

Every bedroom has certain exit points attached to it. Such as a)Exit to balcony/ terrace. b) Exit to toilet block/ walk incloset c) Exit to backyard (if on ground floor)

If we draw an imaginary line from the entry point to all theseexit points, ideally the should not intersect. Since all otherareas are already occupied with furniture, keeping the insidecirculation space clear, helps to achieve a comfortable space.

5) Good Provision For Inclusion Of Accessories.

Accessories in a bedroom have equal importance. When all otherfactors mentioned above are fairly met what remains is the useof accessories which can make quite a lot of difference in thecomfort level of the habitants.

a) The first and the most important is a good provision ofartificial lighting. This includes basic lighting as well asspecial decorative lighting for decorative purposes. b) Specialprovision for upholstery and linen. Small details such ascurtain rods, provision for bed canopies can make the room extradecorative. c) Use materials that are easy to clean andmaintain. For example if you are using PVC flooring sheets ontop of standard tiled flooring, is it washable? Think of whatwill happen if your child uses it as a painting canvas.

The discussion above was an attempt to look for some universalfactor that can affect the comfort level of the users in abedroom. Finally the feeling which you get when you use yourbedroom is most important and is a good measure to decide thesuccess factor of the design project.

However it is important to note that these are not the onlyfactors that need to be looked upon, but I'm sure these can helpas a starting point for further creative thinking.

I hope this article was informative to everyone.

Copyright Shrinivas Vaidya

About the author:

Shrinivas Vaidya is the webmaster ofBedroom-Design-And-Decorating-Ideas.com .Here you will find somegreat concept level design tips for bedroom sets.Visit today.

Article Source: Interior Design Guide

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

Dear friends, successful design is a relative term. What is goodor successful for me may not be so from your point of view.

But when it comes to interior design, there are certain factorswhich are always present no matter what the use of the space is.Let's have a look at the bare minimum design factors a spacemust have so that it can be called a comfortable and habitablespace.

1) Proportions of the room.

The word "proportions" is always used in the design field. Everyinterior space which is being used by humans must beproportionate. Proportions are extremely important in anydesign.

Every 3 dimensional object has properties such as length, widthand height. When these 3 are in accordance with the proportionsof various parts of human body we call it a "proportionate"design.

For example a handle of a wardrobe must have dimensions suchthat our fingers can hold it properly for effortless and smoothaction. or a chair seat must have enough are so that we can sitcomfortably. Again the type of seating will change thedimensions of the chair. A chair in waiting lobby of a bank willbe different than a sofa.

So proportions play a major role in interior design andfurniture in your bedroom must also follow these rules. Thedimensions of the double bed, it's height from floor level,height of wardrobe, dimensions of dressing table, etc...allthese matter as far as function is concerned.

2) Natural light entering the room.

There is no alternative for naturally lit spaces. Sun being thestrongest source of light and also helps to keep the biologicalbalance of the planet Earth, it is very much necessary in theinterior spaces.

Study shows that natural light can penetrate in an interiorspace up to 20 feet (Approx. 7 meters). Using appropriateposition for window opening can easily achieve this.

3) Natural Ventilation

A free and unobstructed flow of air can be a great way to keepthe atmosphere cool and clean in an interior space. This ispossible where bedrooms are located at the corner of thebuilding where 2 sides of the bedrooms have external faces.

Where it is not possible to provide windows on adjacent faces oropposite faces, a ventilator above the window is used. Theconcept behind the ventilator is simple. The lower half thebedroom height is always used by the habitants. Because of theconstant use of this are the air temperature rises and

airbecomes light weight.

This hot air rises above and must need an escape. At such timesventilators above the window openings play a major role ofcirculating the flow through the room in an upward direction.When the lower portion of the room becomes empty fresh air fromwindow takes its position, thus maintaining a balance.

4) Clear Movement Patterns.

Every bedroom has certain exit points attached to it. Such as a)Exit to balcony/ terrace. b) Exit to toilet block/ walk incloset c) Exit to backyard (if on ground floor)

If we draw an imaginary line from the entry point to all theseexit points, ideally the should not intersect. Since all otherareas are already occupied with furniture, keeping the insidecirculation space clear, helps to achieve a comfortable space.

5) Good Provision For Inclusion Of Accessories.

Accessories in a bedroom have equal importance. When all otherfactors mentioned above are fairly met what remains is the useof accessories which can make quite a lot of difference in thecomfort level of the habitants.

a) The first and the most important is a good provision ofartificial lighting. This includes basic lighting as well asspecial decorative lighting for decorative purposes. b) Specialprovision for upholstery and linen. Small details such ascurtain rods, provision for bed canopies can make the room extradecorative. c) Use materials that are easy to clean andmaintain. For example if you are using PVC flooring sheets ontop of standard tiled flooring, is it washable? Think of whatwill happen if your child uses it as a painting canvas.

The discussion above was an attempt to look for some universalfactor that can affect the comfort level of the users in abedroom. Finally the feeling which you get when you use yourbedroom is most important and is a good measure to decide thesuccess factor of the design project.

However it is important to note that these are not the onlyfactors that need to be looked upon, but I'm sure these can helpas a starting point for further creative thinking.

I hope this article was informative to everyone.

Copyright Shrinivas Vaidya

About the author:

Shrinivas Vaidya is the webmaster ofBedroom-Design-And-Decorating-Ideas.com .Here you will find somegreat concept level design tips for bedroom sets.Visit today.

Article Source: Interior Design Guide

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

Bamboo flooring is unquestionable a unique form of flooring, and one that many people may have not heard about. First, a little background information on bamboo: Bamboo is technically a grass product, not wood. It is very environmental friendly, as it fully matures in three years, does not require planting, and does not require harmful pesticides. Bamboo has been used for construction for many thousands of years, and is still used in some cities. Aside from being economically friendly, bamboo flooring is also very beautiful. Most bamboo floors have a glowing honey finish which make distinctive patterns when made into flooring, and come in over 30 different colors. Bamboo wood flooring is also more durable than many other types of flooring, including wholesale vinyl flooring. Bamboo flooring is treated to resist both insects and fire. Also, bamboo flooring is as hard as Maple and more than 50 percent more stabile than Red Oak.

Bamboo Flooring will be perfect for your home.

Whether you want new flooring for your home, office, or anywhere in between, bamboo flooring is the answer. Relatively easy to install and maintain, it is hard to see why more people dont already have bamboo flooring. If your home has small kids running around, rest assured that bamboo laminate flooring will resist any normal household stains, and is easy to clean. If you want a floor that is inexpensive, elegant, and easy to clean, then wait no more and buy a bamboo floor.

About the author:


Mike Yeager, the publisher of:
http://www.a1-interior-design-4u.com/

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

Bamboo flooring is unquestionable a unique form of flooring, and one that many people may have not heard about. First, a little background information on bamboo: Bamboo is technically a grass product, not wood. It is very environmental friendly, as it fully matures in three years, does not require planting, and does not require harmful pesticides. Bamboo has been used for construction for many thousands of years, and is still used in some cities. Aside from being economically friendly, bamboo flooring is also very beautiful. Most bamboo floors have a glowing honey finish which make distinctive patterns when made into flooring, and come in over 30 different colors. Bamboo wood flooring is also more durable than many other types of flooring, including wholesale vinyl flooring. Bamboo flooring is treated to resist both insects and fire. Also, bamboo flooring is as hard as Maple and more than 50 percent more stabile than Red Oak.

Bamboo Flooring will be perfect for your home.

Whether you want new flooring for your home, office, or anywhere in between, bamboo flooring is the answer. Relatively easy to install and maintain, it is hard to see why more people dont already have bamboo flooring. If your home has small kids running around, rest assured that bamboo laminate flooring will resist any normal household stains, and is easy to clean. If you want a floor that is inexpensive, elegant, and easy to clean, then wait no more and buy a bamboo floor.

About the author:


Mike Yeager, the publisher of:
http://www.a1-interior-design-4u.com/

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

Understanding a few essential color concepts will help you design your living and work spaces more purposefully. Embrace the colors that work best for your specific activity and emotional support. Here are seven Design Psychology color basics:

1. Light colors and cool colors recede; dark and bold colors advance.

2. Bold colors and large patterns take up visual space and help sparsely furnished rooms look finished.

3. Bright primary colors give off energy, while pastel colors absorb energy. Excessively bright colors, like excessively bright lights, are stressful.

4. Unrelieved monochromatic color schemes can be boring and, worse, depressing.

5. Adjacent rooms visually expand when the background colors are alike.

6. Northern exposed rooms generally need more light and warmth. Yellow-based colors add dimensions of light and warmth. Rooms with a southern exposure in a hot climate feel cooler when painted in blue-based colors.

7. Surrounding colors influence the appearance of nearby colors. A color appears lighter when surrounded by a dark background and darker when surrounded by a light background.

Use these color concepts to create your spaces for happiness and productivity.

(c) Copyright 2004, Jeanette J. Fisher. All rights reserved.

Professor Jeanette Fisher, author of Doghouse to Dollhouse for Dollars, Joy to the Home, and other books teaches Real Estate Investing and Design Psychology. For more articles, tips, reports, newsletters, and sales flyer template, see http://www.doghousetodollhousefordollars.com/pages/5/index.htm

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

Understanding a few essential color concepts will help you design your living and work spaces more purposefully. Embrace the colors that work best for your specific activity and emotional support. Here are seven Design Psychology color basics:

1. Light colors and cool colors recede; dark and bold colors advance.

2. Bold colors and large patterns take up visual space and help sparsely furnished rooms look finished.

3. Bright primary colors give off energy, while pastel colors absorb energy. Excessively bright colors, like excessively bright lights, are stressful.

4. Unrelieved monochromatic color schemes can be boring and, worse, depressing.

5. Adjacent rooms visually expand when the background colors are alike.

6. Northern exposed rooms generally need more light and warmth. Yellow-based colors add dimensions of light and warmth. Rooms with a southern exposure in a hot climate feel cooler when painted in blue-based colors.

7. Surrounding colors influence the appearance of nearby colors. A color appears lighter when surrounded by a dark background and darker when surrounded by a light background.

Use these color concepts to create your spaces for happiness and productivity.

(c) Copyright 2004, Jeanette J. Fisher. All rights reserved.

Professor Jeanette Fisher, author of Doghouse to Dollhouse for Dollars, Joy to the Home, and other books teaches Real Estate Investing and Design Psychology. For more articles, tips, reports, newsletters, and sales flyer template, see http://www.doghousetodollhousefordollars.com/pages/5/index.htm

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

A well decorated home is one unified whole with rooms that blend and relate to each other like members of a family. The goal of any room arrangement in your house is a simple grouping of furniture pieces that work toward its purpose, dining, sleeping, working, or relaxing. Create easy access through your rooms with 3-fott-wide passages that suggest where you want traffic to flow. Use entry furnishings constant with the rest of your home.

When you are dealing with furniture the whole collection must take priority over individual pieces. It is easy to fall under the enchantment of an antique piece of furniture, but you have to consider how it will fit in with everything else. Plus, you have to ask whether it meets your needs. Everybody loves to buy new things, but before bring in new furniture you must figure out whether to take advantage of what you already have.

You may want to restore or renovate the external appearance of furniture if it is shabby or drab. Decorating is not merely throwing out the old and brings in the new objects. New furniture is certainly attractive, not to mention pricey, if you were to search secondhand market and antique stores, you would probably come across some surprising pieces of furniture that add a touch of distinction to our home. Remember that some old furniture has more personality than new designs and can be a source of inspiration as you seek to create your own decorating scheme.

Old furniture is adequately interesting to be the central feature of a room but be sure never to mix antique furniture with different styles. The general rule is that if you have one very quality piece of antique furniture, the other, more reserved pieces, should stay out of the limelight. In bigger rooms you can place two or three pieces of antique furniture without overdoing it. Decorating a home is a lifelong process that changes as you adjust. It’s an unfolding experience that lets you express yourself. Enjoy the time you spend doing it.

Article Source: http://www.articlecube.com

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

A well decorated home is one unified whole with rooms that blend and relate to each other like members of a family. The goal of any room arrangement in your house is a simple grouping of furniture pieces that work toward its purpose, dining, sleeping, working, or relaxing. Create easy access through your rooms with 3-fott-wide passages that suggest where you want traffic to flow. Use entry furnishings constant with the rest of your home.

When you are dealing with furniture the whole collection must take priority over individual pieces. It is easy to fall under the enchantment of an antique piece of furniture, but you have to consider how it will fit in with everything else. Plus, you have to ask whether it meets your needs. Everybody loves to buy new things, but before bring in new furniture you must figure out whether to take advantage of what you already have.

You may want to restore or renovate the external appearance of furniture if it is shabby or drab. Decorating is not merely throwing out the old and brings in the new objects. New furniture is certainly attractive, not to mention pricey, if you were to search secondhand market and antique stores, you would probably come across some surprising pieces of furniture that add a touch of distinction to our home. Remember that some old furniture has more personality than new designs and can be a source of inspiration as you seek to create your own decorating scheme.

Old furniture is adequately interesting to be the central feature of a room but be sure never to mix antique furniture with different styles. The general rule is that if you have one very quality piece of antique furniture, the other, more reserved pieces, should stay out of the limelight. In bigger rooms you can place two or three pieces of antique furniture without overdoing it. Decorating a home is a lifelong process that changes as you adjust. It’s an unfolding experience that lets you express yourself. Enjoy the time you spend doing it.

Article Source: http://www.articlecube.com

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

Interior painting can be a complicated issue for homeowners and inexperienced decorators alike. One of the most difficult decisions related to interior painting is choosing a color scheme that will not only compliment the furniture and art work that you love, but that will work with your idea of what beautiful colors are. After all it is your home, and the interior paint should reflect the feelings you want to have every time you step into the door.

Professional designers often recommend that anyone considering a new interior paint job first purchase a color wheel at the local paint store. This tool will help you in selecting interior paint colors for your home that you know in advance will work together.

There are a variety of approaches to selecting the right interior paint for you. Using the color wheel you have the ability to select complementary colors, or colors that are directly opposite one another on the color wheel. These colors compliment one another in the design and interior paint process, as the term suggests. Analogous colors are located immediately next to one another on the color wheel. These colors are considered peaceful tones in interior paint selection.

Other considerations for selecting interior paint may include taking a favorite pattern from the room, such as one on a sofa, or in a piece of art and using these colors as a basis for your interior paint choices. Designers often also suggest interior paint colors that are natural because they tend to provide a neutral base that works well with most rooms.

One additional tip in the selection of interior paint is a designer’s concept of a 60-30-10 combination. In choosing an interior paint the individual should select a one color that will be the dominant room color on the walls, one color that will compliment that color and be present 30% of the time, and one color that is a splash of accent color.

These ideas are a great start in selecting your interior paint color. With planning and a focus on what you truly want to express in your home interior paint has the ability to create a beautiful foundation for all of your decorating ideas.

Article Source: http://www.articlecube.com

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

Interior painting can be a complicated issue for homeowners and inexperienced decorators alike. One of the most difficult decisions related to interior painting is choosing a color scheme that will not only compliment the furniture and art work that you love, but that will work with your idea of what beautiful colors are. After all it is your home, and the interior paint should reflect the feelings you want to have every time you step into the door.

Professional designers often recommend that anyone considering a new interior paint job first purchase a color wheel at the local paint store. This tool will help you in selecting interior paint colors for your home that you know in advance will work together.

There are a variety of approaches to selecting the right interior paint for you. Using the color wheel you have the ability to select complementary colors, or colors that are directly opposite one another on the color wheel. These colors compliment one another in the design and interior paint process, as the term suggests. Analogous colors are located immediately next to one another on the color wheel. These colors are considered peaceful tones in interior paint selection.

Other considerations for selecting interior paint may include taking a favorite pattern from the room, such as one on a sofa, or in a piece of art and using these colors as a basis for your interior paint choices. Designers often also suggest interior paint colors that are natural because they tend to provide a neutral base that works well with most rooms.

One additional tip in the selection of interior paint is a designer’s concept of a 60-30-10 combination. In choosing an interior paint the individual should select a one color that will be the dominant room color on the walls, one color that will compliment that color and be present 30% of the time, and one color that is a splash of accent color.

These ideas are a great start in selecting your interior paint color. With planning and a focus on what you truly want to express in your home interior paint has the ability to create a beautiful foundation for all of your decorating ideas.

Article Source: http://www.articlecube.com

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

Have you ever wondered what to do with that space under your stairs? Here are a few tips to make it more useful and discover its hidden potential.

1. Installing shelves, cabinets and drawers under the stairs will reclaim some unused space just lying unnoticed for years. The shelves could be used for decorative displays while the cabinets could be utilized as storage for everyday items. You can also decorate the area with your favorite collectibles. You can add some small task lights to highlight the displayed objects. The shelves can either be custom-made or you can buy ready made stackable units available in any Home Improvement store.

2. You can utilize the space and transform it into a study area or home office. If you have been looking for some space in your house to serve as your home office, then look no further, this is the space for you. Bookshelves, filing cabinets and desktop can be specially sized and made to fit and nestle under your stairs. You can paint the filing cabinets and shelves in warm, welcoming tones to make it more user friendly. Clutter should be avoided in small spaces such as this, so use space-saving containers to keep desk accessories and stationery neat and handy.

3. Make it into a cozy retreat. Wouldn't it be nice to relax in a comfy nook under the stairs while reading your favorite book? You can place an under-stair bench with cushion and pillows for a warm and inviting look. It can also serve as a sleeping spot for a quick afternoon nap. Don't forget to accessorize. You can hang your favorite paintings or add a wall lamp for convenience while reading.

4. Utilize it as a tiny playhouse for the kids. Children would love the idea of playing under the stairs. Paint the playhouse entry with a whimsical design. You can also add shelves to provide storage for toys. A rug can create a softer look and feel while at the same time protects little feet from a cold floor.

So, whether you choose to use your under the stairs space for storage, home office, cozy nook or a playhouse, never forget to add light to this tight space. A desk lamp is advisable for reading and study, overhead lighting for play areas, while display lights are great for your collectibles.

Why not start planning now and convert that under the stair space into something you and your whole family will use and enjoy for a long time.

Article Source: Interior Design Guide

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com

Have you ever wondered what to do with that space under your stairs? Here are a few tips to make it more useful and discover its hidden potential.

1. Installing shelves, cabinets and drawers under the stairs will reclaim some unused space just lying unnoticed for years. The shelves could be used for decorative displays while the cabinets could be utilized as storage for everyday items. You can also decorate the area with your favorite collectibles. You can add some small task lights to highlight the displayed objects. The shelves can either be custom-made or you can buy ready made stackable units available in any Home Improvement store.

2. You can utilize the space and transform it into a study area or home office. If you have been looking for some space in your house to serve as your home office, then look no further, this is the space for you. Bookshelves, filing cabinets and desktop can be specially sized and made to fit and nestle under your stairs. You can paint the filing cabinets and shelves in warm, welcoming tones to make it more user friendly. Clutter should be avoided in small spaces such as this, so use space-saving containers to keep desk accessories and stationery neat and handy.

3. Make it into a cozy retreat. Wouldn't it be nice to relax in a comfy nook under the stairs while reading your favorite book? You can place an under-stair bench with cushion and pillows for a warm and inviting look. It can also serve as a sleeping spot for a quick afternoon nap. Don't forget to accessorize. You can hang your favorite paintings or add a wall lamp for convenience while reading.

4. Utilize it as a tiny playhouse for the kids. Children would love the idea of playing under the stairs. Paint the playhouse entry with a whimsical design. You can also add shelves to provide storage for toys. A rug can create a softer look and feel while at the same time protects little feet from a cold floor.

So, whether you choose to use your under the stairs space for storage, home office, cozy nook or a playhouse, never forget to add light to this tight space. A desk lamp is advisable for reading and study, overhead lighting for play areas, while display lights are great for your collectibles.

Why not start planning now and convert that under the stair space into something you and your whole family will use and enjoy for a long time.

Article Source: Interior Design Guide

More Articles visit: http://home-interior.blogspot.com