Exciting Room Themes for Little Boys

Looking for a fun and exciting theme for your little boy’s room?  How about doing something different for your son’s room? The trick to having a themed room is to not overdo it. Otherwise it can become overwhelming and start to look redundant. It’s not difficult to work with a theme. You can simply mix up colors and patterns for a successful design.

Sports

The most common theme that comes to mind is sports. Luckily there are plenty to chose from, which is good for creating a unique look. Pick one, two or even three! Painted words, sports balls, equipment, team names, logos, flags and more look really great on solid colored walls.

If you choose to do all of this on the walls, pick a solid color for the bedding and add sports patterned pillows. Chose painted or light stained wood furniture. The light wood can remind us of wooden baseball bats while the painted furniture is great to add a pop against the solid colored walls. For a finishing touch, try framing some pictures of your little guy playing his favorite sport!

Sailing

Maybe you want to stay away from the common sports theme room. Well, what about sailing? Little boys love blue and what theme could possibly have more blue than sailing?

Striped, dark blue bedding and decorative sailing pillows are a great place to start. Pair this with white furniture, Paint the walls a light blue. Hang up sailing prints or even mount a lifesaver on the wall. Finally, add a dark blue lamp base with a white shade, sailboat accessories and photographs of your rugrat boating with his family.

Construction

For my last suggestion, what about creating a real manly man theme such as construction? Little boys love cement trucks, dump trucks and tools, so why not bring this into their room? I recommend painting the walls a solid light color with construction images. Add construction theme bedding and pair it with solid colored decorative pillows. Finally, keep the lamps, accessories and stuffed animals of a non-construction theme to change things up a bit.

Engagement Rings: Practical Advice You Need to Remember

If you finally raised the courage to ask her to marry you but you still don’t have a clue as to the style of ring you want to give her, the answer is easy. Just look for the clues.

Do you think she’d like a solitaire diamond, set alone in a band, or would she prefer a cluster of various stones? Her current jewelry can give you clues about her preferences.

Think about the way she lives her life. Think about how the ring will fit in with her lifestyle. If she works in a profession where extravagant jewelry would look out of place, then aim for something on the conservative side. Even if she doesn’t, remember that a pointed gem with high prongs could snag clothing and is harder to keep clean. Save that type of ring for gifts that will be worn on special occasions, not every day.

Of course you shouldn’t have to be reminded of this but for the sake of covering all the bases – don’t forget to get her ring size! Does she have rings that she wears on her engagement finger? Maybe a friend or family member could get hold of one of them long enough for you to have it sized. Of course, you’ll have to swear the messenger to secrecy but you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a willing helper.

Now that you have a better feel for the style of ring she might prefer, it’s time to consider the stones that will go into it. Start with the Four C’s when shopping for precious stones. Consider a gemstone without a setting. What kind of gemstone does she like?

Don’t just assume that she wants a diamond. Some women don’t. Sapphires and rubies are both durable gemstones that are often set into engagement rings for women who don’t like to wear diamonds. If you think you know which shape she loves, buy a loose stone to show her when you ask the big question. The two of you can shop together later for the perfect engagement ring setting.

Of course, you should never overestimate your budget. Your engagement ring budget is a top consideration. Don’t stress if your budget is tight, because you can buy an affordable engagement ring. There are lots of excellent options, from solitaires to rings with multiple diamonds or other gems. Many stores are willing to work with you.

What Can I Do With Left Over Fabric?

Do you have odd yards of fabric left over from miscellaneous projects such as reupholstering, window treatments, bedding or even clothing? Well, those odd pieces of fabrics might not be as hard to make use out of as you think! We all deserve to get our money’s worth out of our purchases. If you already bought the fabric, chances are that you most likely love it. Let’s find creative uses for it in your home.

Throw Pillows

A very simple project for your leftover fabric is to make throw pillows. You do not need a lot of fabric to make the pillows look great; even two different corresponding fabrics on each side can work.

Just head over to your local fabric store and buy filling or pillow forms and you will soon have a cost effective new throw pillow. In my personal opinion you can never have too many throw pillows. Sofas can hold a lot and they don’t all have to match!

Make sure the colors, patterns and sizes go well together. Nothing says relaxation more than fluffy pillows! If you are an experienced sewer, try adding a decorative trim around the edges for an added touch of elegance.

Upholstered Seats

Do you have upholstered seats on your dining room chairs? Small pieces of fabric can be utilized here as well. The seats do not have to match. The patterns just have to coordinate with the room. For example, do you have six dining room chairs? Why not try upholstering the two end chairs in one fabric pattern and the other four in another?

Reupholstering dining rooms can be an easy do-it yourself project if the chair has a square or rectangle seat. Here are some simple instructions:

1. Start by unscrewing the seat from the frame.
2. Wrap the fabric on top of the existing seat.
3. Staple gun it on the bottom
4. Screw the seat back on the frame.

Yes, it is that simple. You are sure to impress your next dinner guests!

Window Valance

How about utilizing the odd fabric pieces for a window valance? Small, simple windows in bedrooms, hallways or laundry rooms sometimes need just a touch of color. This doesn’t have to be anything elaborate. Here are another set of simple instructions:

1. Measure down from the top of the frame so that approximately the top third of the window is covered by the valance.
2. Tuck the sides of the fabric over.
3. Attach a white muslin fabric on the back
4. Sew on a rod pocket.

The valance rod that the fabric slips over is typically inexpensive and easy to install. For an added touch of elegance, try a decorative rod to accent the window.

What do you do with your leftover fabric? Any other suggestions?

Creating a Home Library You’ll Want to Visit: 5 Inspirations

If you’re lucky enough to have an in-home library, you may find it difficult to create a space that maximizes storage without sacrificing appeal. Celebrate your home library by creating an inspiring space.

Here are a few ideas:

1. Go classic museum. Give your space an art-museum feel by adding classic pieces. This museum bench is an awesome piece that would nicely complement stone flooring. As seen in the Pasadena Museum of California Art (PMCA) 2005 Biennial Exhibition, the Case Study Museum Bench was designed and developed at the Modernica Studio in Los Angeles. The Museum Bench is extremely substantial and appropriate for high traffic and commercial use.
2. Bring the world home. Brainstorm creative ways to bring your world travels home. Use your library as a place to display collected art pieces or a push-pinned map. Consider adding to that cultured feel by including a trunk for extra storage. It’s perfect for a small throw blanket or two.
3. Decorate with light. Warm overhead lighting will provide a comforting feel. Lights directed toward shelves or artwork draw the eye to the most inspiring elements of the room. Don’t forget to highlight your favorite hanging art pieces or statues. It’s generally pretty easy to find lights that can be fixed to the top of the shelves, angling over to display shelf contents. Consider LEDs for a bright, targeted, energy-friendly solution. Visit your local library to see how they lit their shelves.
4. Don’t skip art.
   Paintings don’t have to be confined to walls. You can mount these pieces right onto bookshelves. This is a great way to break up the continuous pattern the shelves provide. I suggest using contrasting colors to give it an extra “pop.”
   That look can also be achieved by placing art on the shelves themselves. This is a great way to mix up your collection. My favorite way to place art is in accordance to the way books are organized. For example, the popular “A” and “Z” shelf ends can indicate where author last names begin and end. For a fun option, consider choosing art pieces that describe the content of the books (such as: business, art, fun, reference, etc). If you have kids, consider using their pictures to indicate their growing collection on the shelf. Make it fun for them to interact with reading! Bottom line: Be creative in a way that makes sense for you and your family.
5. Stay alive with plants. Libraries are notorious for feeling dusty, their shelves stacked with titles from countless authors. Add a little life with plants. Large, leafy plants are good options. Of course, ensure the plant you choose has sufficient lighting.
   Unless you’re seriously disadvantaged at keeping plants alive, opt for live plants over their fake counterparts. This will side step the dust and provide a much more vibrant feel.

What have you done to make your home library – of office – more inspiring? Feel free to link to photos to share your space and inspire others!

Moss as Art: A DIY Project

 

 

I just started a DIY project at home with the help of my friendly neighbor. With the growing popularity of a living wall, I wanted to try my hand at creating a simple version for my own home. I love the idea of plants as art and decided to start with easy simple to grow and maintain: Moss.

The Internet popularity of the moss mat has only expanded my interest in this concept. Though not many people have presumably brought one into their home, it’s creative approach has sparked conversation.

“Nguyen La Chanh’s ingenious design is made from a decay-free foam called plastazote, and populated with three varieties of moss: ball, island, and forest. Maintenance required for this little patch of green is limited, as the moss thrives off of the humidity released from daily bathroom rituals.”

 

 

Though I’d like to continue the do-it-yourself experiment into a moss table (as pictured), we started with a piece of art. We decided to grow moss on a piece of plywood to later mount to the wall. Pending any success, we’ll add two more pieces for additional decoration.

I’m no botanist, but I found directions moss-growing directions that were easy enough to follow; then I let some creativity take over. Please let me know what you think!

 

Materials:

• 1’x1’ piece of plywood
• Water sealer for plywood
• Burlap (enough to cover plywood with 3 layers)
• Staple gun
• Moss
• 8 oz of beer
• Teaspoon of sugar
• Blender

Prepping the base

 


Burlap stapled to plywood

 

• Start by treating the wood with water sealant. You’ll need to let this dry, so make sure to get this finished before you’re ready to continue.
• Once the plywood is treated and dry, cut the burlap to fit the plywood. You’ll need 3 separately cut pieces.
• Pull the first piece of burlap tight against the wood so it’s not draping, but allow room for plants to root themselves. Staple the burlap to the back of the plywood.
• Do the same with the other two pieces of burlap, but angle the pieces in different directs to add texture. You should not be able to see the wood when this is complete.

 

Growing moss
This is the fun part so, if you have them, make sure to include kids!

1. Collect grown moss outdoors. We used about 6” worth. Make sure to shake off any loose dirt.
2. Put the moss, beer, and sugar into a blender. Blend until liquid.
3. Pour the mossy concoction onto the burlap. Leave room on the edges.
4. Allow the moss to grow by keeping it flat, moist, and shady. (It’s pretty messy and a little smelly at this point, so we kept it outdoors.)
5. Once the moss has rooted and grown, we’ll be adding trim pieces on the edges to frame the moss!

Have you ever experimented with anything like this? How did it work out?

Headboard Makeover: Fun While Saving Money

Just because you are looking for ways to save money doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice a new look in your bedroom this spring. If you have a little creativity and some extra time you can make some exciting and inexpensive changes in the bedroom. By making a few dramatic changes to your headboard, you change the focus of your bedroom to the bed. Add a personal touch by doing it yourself.

Here are two ideas to get you inspired – start here and let your imagination run wild.

Door to Door
This is a great way to make use of that extra door, or 3 narrow closet doors, that have been cluttering your garage, basement, attic or storage. The idea here is to create a work of art that is a practical piece of furniture. This is why, for this particular project, I prefer three narrow panel-style closet doors. Measure  your bed to decide what is going to work best for you.

• Look around your bedroom and choose one color that will complement what you already have. This color is your center. From here, you will also choose a tone and a shade.
• Tape off unequal horizontal blocks then feel free to start painting. Paint all the stripes of one color before moving on to the next tone or shade.
• Once they are painted and dried, attach the doors to each other with brackets and secure to your bed frame and/or wall.

Satin Lattice
This is a very simple yet elegant do-it-yourself project.

• Begin by measuring the width and height of your bed.
• Add about 3’ to the height measurement – it may seem like a lot now but we are going for drama.
• Select a sturdy wood about 1” thick that fits the dimensions that you measured earlier.
• Lay your board on a secure surface. Use a mild adhesive on the board and apply ample stuffing to the board.
• Completely cover the board with satin.
• Fold a small hem on the back of the board then use a staple gun on the hem ensuring that the slack is taken out.
• Turn the board over and with satin ribbon create a lattice pattern over the front securing the ribbon to the back with your trusty staple gun.
• Where the ribbon crosses on the front, place a fabric-covered button or pin.
• Once completed, secure to your bed frame or wall.

And there you have it – a new focus in a new space for a low cost. Enjoy!

The Proposal: Advice for finding the perfect engagement ring

There is one surefire way to get her a ring she will love. Let her pick it out herself. Keep in mind she’ll wear this ring every day, so it has to be comfortable and it must fit her lifestyle. This might mean that she will try on dozens of rings before she decides on the one she wants to wear forever. Expect that and be patient.

If you have gauged the risks and are hoping to surprise her with an engagement ring, then congratulations are in order. However, courage alone will not see you though. So here are some guidelines to help you the rest of the way.

The best thing you can do in marriage and while shopping for an engagement ring is pay attention. Paying attention to her jewelry likes and dislikes is the first big step towards finding her the perfect engagement ring.

Pay attention to which metals she prefers. Most women have a definite preference. If she loves white gold or platinum, then stick to white gold or platinum. Ask yourself about the style of jewelry she usually wears. Get help identifying it if you like, but once you know what she likes, stick to it. The best indication of her tastes is the jewelry she wears all the time, those she’s most comfortable with.

Next, ask yourself if she has hinted at her likes and dislikes? Has she ever mentioned her favorite jewelry styles or pointed out engagement rings when you’re shopping together? If not, take her shopping. It isn’t difficult to steer yourselves towards the jewelry store.

If you want to be subtle, say you’re looking for a new watch, but be sure to pause at the engagement ring counters. It’s a little sneaky, but she will be glad you made the effort.

While you are working on the logistics of getting this ring, don’t lose sight of the qualitative side. Think about what looks best on her hand. An elongated diamond, such as a marquise or oval, can make short fingers look more sleek, but be careful not to overdo the look or it could have the opposite effect. Wide bands usually make fingers appear shorter than they are, so think about the proportions. Women with long fingers can easily wear bold rings. A setting that’s extremely delicate could get lost on large hands. It makes the ring look smaller.

Choose the shape and setting that is right for her. Round stones are the most popular shape chosen by brides, but may not be right for your bride. She might prefer an elongated marquise, oval or pear-shaped stone, or a square or emerald cut diamond. Fancier shapes, such as hearts, are another option.

Of course, she will be happy that you finally asked her. Now show her you actually put some thought into it by getting her a ring that speaks to her.

Complementing Stone Floors: 5 Favorite Elements

Stone floors can be a gorgeous way to achieve a contemporary, earthy look but they often also have a “cold” feel. Warming up the floors with complementary pieces can take some creativity, but the work is well worth it. Here are my five favorite additions that are sure to warm up your home:

Eco-Smart Non-Vented Fireplaces: This is the most streamlined  fireplace I’ve come across that maintains the earthy feel of a stone floor. These fireplaces burn denatured ethanol alcohol and are naturally clean burning. Not only that, but the government offers incentives: Up to 30 percent or $1,500 in tax credits for the purchase of these fireplaces!

 

 

Chester Grommet Curtain: The Chester Grommet Curtain is a great option for softening the rigidity of stone floors, but maintaining a contemporary style. Grommets are in brushed silver or iron, to coordinate with the color of the linen.

 

 

 

Dover Artist Studio Rug: This contemporary rug comes from India and is made from 100 percent New Zealand wool. The stone-like circles are a nice contrast to the rigid lines of caulk stone floors sometimes have.

If this rug doesn’t match your style, consider how you can pull the subtle colors from your stone into a rug with contrasting colors. Many stone floors are darker, so lighter colors can both soften and better define areas of the room.

 

Cornice LEDs: LEDs are not only energy efficient, but they add the right amount of soft light to lift the textures of your stone floors. LEDs on top of a cornice gives the room a comforting, even romantic lighting effect. If you already have cornices, consider adding LEDs.

 

French chandelier: This chandelier dates back to 1920’s France. This total splurge (priced at $2,400) is a dream lighting piece. The ambient lighting is an earthier-feeling option than the contemporary style of the cornice LEDs.

Revitalizing Your Home with Antiques

There are many ways to revitalize your home’s look without spending the time or money on a major renovation project. Consider complementing, or even contrasting your current motif with some well chosen antiques. Adding antiques and collectibles to your decor offers stylish, interesting, and practical ways to liven up a space. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when adding antiques to your home.

Remember to group like objects together. Whether you’ve amassed a striking collection of pottery or an eclectic mix of antique clocks, grouping like objects together on a shelf, table or mantle can often make more of an impact than scattering them about a room.

Vary the size and shape of objects in your collectible groupings to make them more interesting. This also works well with holiday collectibles. This is often referred to as making a “statement”. By creating a deliberate and cohesive idea with antiques you can make a beautiful statement.

Try using common items in an unexpected way. Consider using vintage aprons as a window valance. Try finding an old pull-down schoolhouse map and using it as a window shade in a study or in a child’s bedroom. Your imagination is your limit when it comes to finding a way to use common items in unusual ways. Don’t turn your nose up at what your might find at thrift store or a flea market. In a new light, it can save you lots of money as well.

Let’s get back to that cohesiveness. When planning a room, try to be realistic with what you can accomplish. And try to recreate an era. Recreating an era through decorating can be visually stimulating as well as an interesting challenge. Consider how an art deco bathroom or Victorian guest room might look in your home.

 

Look at old home and garden magazines or decorating books for authentic ideas before setting out on a quest to fill that space with stylish collectibles reflecting your favorite decade.

Be bold and don’t be afraid to mix old with new. Adding interesting antiques and collectibles to modern décor provides an opportunity to embellish a room with a conversation piece that stands out. Architectural antiques and oversized advertising pieces are great options for this purpose, but anything old and unusual will do. Again, be bold not reckless and liven up your home with a few pieces from an era gone by.

Changing the Face of Medicine

We have all been to see doctors in cramped examination rooms with a bed, a chair and a small counter with a sink. When we have blood work done, we sit in what reminds me of school desks.

As we have more serious medical issues, we go from doctor to doctor. For a mother with small children, there is just not enough space for all of us. It almost feels like no one has ever thought about this issue. When mothers who have more than one child need to have medical issues addressed, the room is easily crowded. Patients are left feeling like part of the process. Well, design has addressed those issues and more.

Steelcase has developed a new line of products called Nurture. Researchers at the Mayo Clinic observed how consultations were done and felt that there was a disconnect between the doctor and patient created by the layout of offices and examination rooms.

The desk between the patient and the doctor minimized interaction and created a situation where it was difficult to see test results and images. Steelcase found that many of the doctors also felt disconnected and wanted an environment that engaged the patients more fully in the understanding and treatment options available to them.

As more information becomes available, patients are researching and coming in to the doctors with their information and looking for answers. The relationships between patient and doctor are more a give and take than in the past, when a doctor would prescribe medicine and walk out.

With this in mind, spaces are being created so there are work surfaces that protrude and create mini conference spaces. Test results can be viewed on a computer screen and papers can be put on the work surface. Designers at Steelcase believe that in the very near future patients will be bringing in their laptops to show their research to the doctor.

Have you seen any changes in medical facilities at your doctor’s office or labs? Do you perceive medical treatment more as a partnership than a dictatorship?

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