What Makes A Dining Room More Comfortable to Eat In?

What elements of design make some dining rooms more inviting than others? When having dinner with friends, the majority of your time is spent in the dining room or kitchen, so let’s talk about how to make an eating area more comfortable.

Table Shape

The dining room is often one of the first rooms your guests will see when walking into your home. For this reason alone, it is important to make a great impression. Figuring out if a round or rectangle table is right for your space is a great place to start. If your room is more of a square shape, a round table is usually the right fit while a rectangle table will obviously fit well in a rectangular room.

Furniture Size

Make sure you buy the right size table for the room that will allow for a nice walking space behind all chairs. I recommend leaving at least two feet. This gives your guests one foot to pull out the chair and one foot for those walking behind.

Upholstery or Wood?

When deciding on upholstered or non-upholstered chairs, first think about the majority of your guests. Will there be many kids? If so, you may want to go with a wooden seat for easy clean up. But upholstered chairs add an element of comfort that lasts long after dinner is served.

Keep the Eye Moving

Rooms that can accommodate buffets or china cabinets offer a stunning effect. Having items for your guests to look at while spending time in your dining room will make their eyes move throughout the space, keeping them focused and awake after a big delicious meal. I recommend placing colored glass, intricate china or vibrant accessories on top of the buffet or inside your china cabinet.

Window treatments

Window treatments can be helpful in more formal dining spaces by adding splashes of color that can be repeated in the china cabinet, buffet, artwork or rug. When walking into the space, the window treatments will soften the look against the hard wood table and give off a comfortable feeling.

Flooring and Walls

It is a smart idea to keep the walls a neutral shade with colorful artwork. Rugs always look great under dining room tables. However, if you have a beautiful floor underneath, rugs may not be necessary. A rug can make sliding chairs in and out difficult and could collect stains. On a positive note, rugs will absorb sound that may carry out of the space and disturb others in the home.

How have you created a comfortable space to dine in?

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.

I Love Contemporary Patterned Rugs, but How Do I Make It Work?

Do you find yourself in love with a patterned contemporary rug but uncertain about how to incorporate it in your home? You are not alone.

Contemporary rugs look awesome but can be hard to work with. The large scale patterns and multiple colors might clash with other pieces in the room. Might I recommend trying to pair a large printed contemporary rug with a solid colored sofa?

Solid Color

Now, the best part about contemporary rooms is that the sofa doesn’t have to be the typical beige or white. It can be a vibrant solid color; green, red, black, etc. Pick one color found in the majority of the rug and make that same color your sofa fabric!

When using chairs in a room, I would typically recommend a patterned fabric. However, this might pose a challenge when working with a patterned rug. Instead, try repeating the same solid color fabric used on the sofa. Popping the colors in the rug with patterned throw pillows on the sofa and chairs can be a great accent.

Common Patterns

Always use patterns that correspond well together. Keep everything geometric or swirls or circles; otherwise the patterns may start to fight each other.

Artwork for Accent

Next, why not repeat the same type of pattern and colors found in the rug with the artwork. But here is where you can start to bring in some other elements into the space. For example, some contemporary flower prints will work great with a geometric patterned rug!

Mirrors

If more than a couple pieces of artwork are needed in the room, why not try a contemporary mirror? There are some really neat mirrors out there, such as what I call the “sunburst mirror,” a small, round mirror with pieces of metal coming out from the center. Some will even have tiny round mirrors at the end.

Simple Accessories

For the finishing touch, keep the accessories simple, such as large coffee tables books, a simple floral in a contemporary vase, picture frames or a large bowl with fillers such as coffee beans and candles.

Do you prefer a contemporary or traditional design for your home? How have you blended patterns and color?

When to Use a Solid Colored Rug in Your Living Room

Do you have a hard surface floor in your living room? Need a rug to add some coziness? Deciding on what the best rug is for your room can pose to be a challenge for many, but here are some simple tips to use when deciding if a solid colored rug is right for you:

Popping Out

Solid colored rugs can have two major effects on a room: they can either add a pop of color or blend in. When working within a modern style living room with mostly natural colors, a pop of color in the rug can do wonders. For example, if the majority of your room is cream colored, adding a vibrant red rug or green rug can have a dramatic effect.

The key to making this element work is to repeat the same color throughout the room in the wall art, throw pillows or accessories. But be careful not to add too much because it can take the effect away. At the same time, adding too little can leave one wondering why in the world there is a vibrant colored rug in the room.

Texture can play an important role to the effect the rug can have on a modern interior. Shaggy rugs are often used, which will add a comfortable and soft feeling against the straight edges and solid colors.

Blending In

For the opposite effect, a solid colored rug can blend into the room. In many coastal and classic traditional homes, we often find ourselves not wanting to draw attention to the floor but to the furniture pieces themselves.

Coastal homes and classic traditional homes are known for having sisal rugs. Sisal rugs will give the solid colored and natural texture often needed in these types of environments. We often find the plain white or cream sofa with decorative pillows to add a pop of color. When pairing these smooth fabrics with a sisal rug, it creates a nice balance throughout the room.

Traditional, classic homes have furniture with clean lines that tend to draw your attention in the room; the sisal will not take away from this but will actually add the texture difference needed for a more powerful impact. In coastal homes we often find tropical prints, strips or soft plaids. Again, the sisal won’t compete against these. Besides, what better type of rug to have that hides the sand that will come in off the beach?

What do you prefer: a blend or a pop?

Is Your Patio Ready For Summer?

I know that interior design is the name of the game, but as we approach warmer weather for an extended period, I think it is important (and I think many would agree with me) that you have to think of your patio as another room in your home. Our family home has this great screened porch. My mother talked about it for years, her dream of having a screened porch on the back of the house. Well, she got her wish about 7 years ago. Now, when our family gathers there. If it is over 50 degrees, we are on the porch. And I have to say, we love it. But what makes it so great?

Here are a few porch attributes which I think add to the value of your outdoor environment:

Lounging around AND dining. Having a great lounge chair to catch some rays is crucial, in my opinion, to a successful patio. However, you need to combine that with separate pieces that work for dining. It can be really hard to eat corn on the cob and lounge at the same time!

The vitality of shade. When thinking about all the members of your family, you need to provide some shade. I am not saying every porch should be built to the expense of being screened in, but a good adjustable umbrella is a great investment. Just be sure to put the money into a good one that will last. If you buy a cheaply made one, you may be investing in one every year. So just lay down the cash the first time around and you should get many seasons use out of it.

Rugs may sound odd, but they work! If you have a roof or awning that covers your outdoor space, consider an outdoor rug. I think this can really take an outdoor living space from Plain Jane to a high-use critical space for your home. There is some type of psychological effect that completes the space when you think from the ground up. Also, the softness makes the space feel more like a living room or even a family room. You can just add the patio to your vacuum routine. Just be sure that if you plan on leaving the rug outside that you purchase something indoor/outdoor ready. Or, just use an old area rug from inside that you have replaced.

I love summer, and I love porch time! So, what are your plans for outdoor living this season?

How Do I Make that Oriental Rug Work in my Home?!

Often we have a love-hate relationship with oriental rugs. They are comfortable, add an eclectic pattern to dull areas, but can remind us of our Grandmother’s house. So, should you go with the oriental rug or not?

First of all, look at the color. Many antique rugs are in fashionable colors we can still use today – black, burgundy, green, navy, gold, plum, etc.  I would recommend getting rid of the light blue, mauve, and pinks from the 80’s and early 90’s. Most often, the areas in the home where oriental rugs work best include the foyer and hallways, dining room, living room or study.

Foyers and hallways are often simply decorated. Naturally colored walls or grasscloth are most commonly used in today’s homes. If any furniture is placed in these areas, they are often large casegoods and decorative chairs. There isn’t much of a chance to bring in pattern and color, so oriental rugs are a great pairing in these environments. They add interest, color and cover up the bare hard surface flooring beneath our feet. Florals, artwork and accessories are a great ways to repeat the colors found in the oriental rug throughout the space.

Another perfect spot for oriental rugs would be the dining room. Large wood or glass tables are the focus of this room. Secondary to the table would be the dining chairs, which may have upholstered backs and seats; this is a perfect opportunity to repeat the colors in the rug. If a buffet or china cabinet is found in this room, placing dishes, glassware or linens in or on these pieces with colors from the rug will move the guest’s eye throughout the space. To add the finishing touches, repeat the colors on the table centerpiece, in the artwork and draperies.

We often find oriental rugs in living rooms and studies. If you would like a more masculine feel to this space, I would recommend pairing the oriental rug with leather sofas and heavy, dark wood furniture. What better way to pop the solid leather color and wood than with a busy rug? Repeating these colors in the artwork, pillows, accessories and lamps can tie the room together with a dramatic effect.

Do you like the look of oriental rugs? How have you added them into your home?

Designing For OR Around Your Pets

Many people have a little (or large) furry friend running around their homes somewhere. And when it comes to keeping an impeccable home, these four-legged friends often hinder the desirable outcome.

Cats and dogs shed. I hate to break it to those of you who believe that your animal does not shed. They do. Pet hair getting embedded in carpeting, sofas and even the occasional bed sheet can be a problem and to you and visitors. Not everyone loves your pet as much as you do.

FABRICS

When it comes to considering new upholstery for your home, consider fabrics with heavy weaves and less natural fibers like cotton and wool. Natural fibers have a tendency to stain and are difficult to clean.

Consider leather as a good option, especially if it is “treated” top-grain leather. This option will avoid the “distressed look” when it is not intended. Heavier fabric selections will also deter the clawing your cat may be inclined to do and you may get a longer lifespan out of your furniture.

RUGS

When it comes to area rugs consider a very low pile or tightly-woven rug to minimize fur embedding and perhaps other animal damages from destroying your rugs. If you are looking for a rug for a designated animal room, you may consider purchasing something that doesn’t break the bank in case you throw it away in a couple of years.

BEDDING/COVERS

I am a culprit of allowing my own animals to hop up on our bed from time to time. Although pets may be in the bedroom, it doesn’t have to be an infestation of hair in your bed. If the dog and cat sleep on the bed, keep a special blanket to put over your own bedding at night for the animals to lie on.

When making the bed, fold up the animal’s blanket and store it in the closet if you are entertaining. Otherwise I would advise leaving it on the bed when you are away at work for the day. We don’t know where our pets are when we are not around.

Also consider introducing a floor bed for your pet. This is the best thing I ever did! And even if you think they won’t use it- they will!

This goes for upholstery too. I have a sofa in my living room I absolutely LOVE and it would kill me to see it destroyed. It is CONSTANTLY covered unless I am entertaining. I learned the hard way.

I must say the best product on the market for cleaning upholstery and rugs is “The Rug Doctor.” You can purchase it at Home Depot or occasionally at your local grocery store.

I hope these little tips help. Just remember, even though you may not be bothered by the little bit of fur on your throw pillow, everyone else is!

What other helpful tips do you have to keep your home clean and fur-free?

Ways to Impress Your Guests From the Start

First impressions can be extremely important throughout your lives. This includes you home! The entrance into our home is the first place your guest sees when they arrive. If its family, friends, your boss, or you are trying to sell your house, this is a key area!

Always keep this area picked up! Nothing says “Hello” like a pile of papers, shoes, or clothes that are waiting to be taken upstairs and put away.

Rugs: If you have a grand foyer, there are several options that might work for you. Most importantly, select a nice entrance rug. This is the very first thing that someone will see upon entering your home. Make it a nice. I would recommend darker colors so the dirt doesn’t show.

Seating: Give your guests a place to sit down and take off their coats and shoes when they arrive. Appropriate seating in a foyer will vary according to your space. If it’s a large open area, try fully upholstered armless chairs – this allows for comfort and flexibility. If the space is smaller and tighter, try a wooden dining chair and add an upholstered seat to soften up the space.

Console: I highly recommend a console. This is a great location for dropping your keys, mail, and other misc items you may have in your hands when first arriving home.

Artwork/Mirrors: Hanging a large picture or mirror over the console can make a grand impression. Make sure the picture or mirror doesn’t hang over the edges of the console – this will make the weight of the room seem uneven and top heavy! I personally prefer the mirror for last minute hair and make-up checks before leaving the house.

Lighting and Foliage: A lamp on the console would be great in the evenings when you may not want the chandelier on but would still like to be able to light the space.

Accessories: Try offsetting the lamp with a floral – for some reason they look really good in an entrance. Maybe it’s because flowers are often brought as a sign of appreciation for loved one. Offset the remaining space on the console with a small mint dish, picture frames, a book, or figurines. For the finishing touch, try a decorative coat rack so your guests do not have to search around in the closet.

How have you decorated your foyer? What do you think is the most important room in the house for impressing guests?

Fashion Trends to Home Interior Trends

How many of you watched the Oscar’s last Sunday evening? Did you watch the stars stroll down the red carpet? What colors did you see the famous actresses wearing?

Did you know that trends tend to start in the street and percolate up through fashion into home furnishings? In fact, the experts say that it takes less than 1 year for fashion trends to move into our market! That is very fast and not easy for all of us to keep up with. Here are my predictions for next spring based upon what I saw on the red carpet….

Purple was everywhere! Mostly the tones were in the lighter purple to lilac range. It’s been a long time since we saw this color was in the trends; it’s about time it cycles back in. Purple is one of those colors many associate with little girls, so let’s keep it simple here. Possibly paint the walls a light purple – my suggestion would be Benjamin Moore’s Inspired AF-595 color. Pair the walls with a white or a beige sofa, pop the color again on the accent pillows and maybe bring in some greenery with purple lilacs on the cocktail table. Another great suggestion would be to have a beautiful bed frame with a white duvet cover, some purple accent pillows and then accentuate it in the rug and artwork! This will be enough to make you feel at home in a purple room without the overkill!

My next prediction is navy. Navy is a classic that we see coming back again and again. It’s hard to go wrong with this color. Navy is often associated with a coastal décor. Navy can be very powerful so I’m not so sure you want to paint your walls that color. May I suggest a beige instead? Navy looks beautiful on pillows with light colored sofas, try repeating the color on the fabrics that go on the corresponding chairs. Bringing navy in through artwork is fairly easy to do, such as with lighthouse paintings. Try repeating the color on the rug and in large picture books on the cocktail table.

While these are two colors that were seen on many dresses that night, I would watch for a couple other colors that I believe are trying to sneak in to become a trend. Several actresses had on light yellow, light pink, and red (going almost to a fuchsia/purple). Chocolate brown and gray were seen on many and I believe they are here to stay for a while. Although only time will really give us the answers to how long these colors will stick around!

What do you like to see be the next fashion/home interior trend?

What is the Ikat Fabric Trend?

How many of your know what an Ikat Fabric is? Ikat fabrics found their way back into the fashion and interiors trend now for a couple years, but did you know that they have been around for centuries? Ikat in Indonesian means to “tie” or “bind.” Ikat actually refers to the process in which the fabric is made and the fabric itself. A dye resistant method is used on the warp/weft before the threads can be woven into the Ikat pattern or design. Patterns can vary from country to country and can often be a symbol of status, wealth, power and prestige. Then there is America, who has taken it upon themselves to start marketing this cultural fabric into our products!

Ikat fabrics are constantly being found in the home interior’s market. Many ikat fabric patterns we are seeing have one single color with a neutral beige or white background. This is because each strand is arranged into bundles, tied and dyed separately before being attached to the loom and woven into a pattern.

Since this can take a great deal of skill if multiple colors are used, my professional assumption would be that it costs less to have a fabric with only one dye color. Both the manufacturer and consumer can win on price this way while getting the same look!

Ikat fabrics can be found on many accent pillows; this might be where you may see more than one color since less fabric is used. But we are also seeing these fabrics on full upholstered sofas and chairs; this is a great way to make an impact in your room!

With such a busy fabric on a large piece of furniture, try and keep the rest of the room simple. If you must have accent pillows, keep them a solid color and try adding a decorative trim around the edges for flair. I suggest picking the Ikat fabric for either the sofa or the chairs. When used on both it can often be a little bit too much.

A solid or monochromatic rug can be simple yet effective against the busy pattern. For artwork, I would recommend using mirrors, clocks, or simple pictures without a lot of detail. Finally for accessories, try using a clear glass bowl with some pops of colors through marbles, coffee beans, accessory balls, or dried flowers. Pair this with big coffee table books and a couple picture frames and you should be all set!

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