Category: Decorating Ideas

How to Show Your Faith in Your Home

Modern Architecture Concept

Your home is more than just a place to eat and sleep—it’s a sanctuary, a space where you can express your values, personality, and faith!

 

Whether you’re looking for a subtle way to incorporate religious elements or a bold statement of devotion, there are many creative ways to bring your faith into your home decor. Here are some inspiring ideas to transform your space into a reflection of your spiritual beliefs.

1. Display Religious Art and Icons

One of the simplest and most impactful ways to express your faith is through religious artwork. A beautifully framed painting of Christ, the Virgin Mary, or saints can serve as a focal point in your living room or prayer space. Holyart, an online store specializing in religious art and Christian home decor, offers a wide range of stunning pieces, from classic icons to modern Christian artwork, helping you find the perfect piece to inspire devotion.

2. Incorporate Crosses and Crucifixes

A crucifix or cross is a timeless symbol of faith and can be placed in various areas of your home. A large wooden cross in the living room, a delicate metal crucifix above your bed, or a small one in the entryway can serve as a daily reminder of your beliefs. Holyart provides a variety of crosses in different materials, from rustic wood to elegant silver, allowing you to choose one that best complements your home’s aesthetic.

3. Create a Dedicated Prayer or Meditation Space

Having a dedicated area for prayer or reflection can help you stay connected to your faith in the midst of daily life. You don’t need an entire room—just a quiet corner with a comfortable chair, a small table for a Bible or devotional book, and perhaps a candle or a statue of a saint. Holyart offers a selection of devotional candles and statues that can enhance the sacred atmosphere of your prayer space.

4. Use Inspirational Quotes and Scripture Verses

Words have power, and displaying meaningful scripture verses or inspirational quotes can uplift your spirit every day. Consider framed calligraphy of your favorite Bible verse in the hallway or a wooden plaque with an encouraging message in the kitchen. Many artisans on Holyart craft beautifully designed wall art featuring scripture, making it easy to find something that resonates with your heart.

5. Decorate with Nativity Scenes and Seasonal Decor

During special religious seasons like Christmas and Easter, incorporating faith-based decorations can make your celebrations more meaningful. A nativity scene at Christmas can serve as a reminder of the true meaning of the season, while beautifully crafted Easter decorations can celebrate the joy of resurrection. Holyart offers a wide variety of handcrafted nativity sets, from traditional to modern interpretations, to fit any home style.

6. Incorporate Candles and Incense for a Sacred Atmosphere

Lighting candles during prayer or meditation can create a peaceful and reverent ambiance. Scented candles or incense, such as frankincense and myrrh, can enhance the sensory experience of your spiritual practice. Holyart carries a variety of church-quality candles and high-quality incense that can bring a sense of sacredness to your home.

7. Showcase Religious Books and Bibles

A beautifully displayed Bible or a collection of religious books can serve as both decor and a source of inspiration. Consider placing a family Bible on a coffee table or creating a small bookshelf with your favorite faith-based reads. Holyart offers beautifully bound Bibles and religious texts that can add both beauty and depth to your home.

Conclusion

Your home should be a reflection of your faith, providing an environment that nurtures your spiritual life. Whether through religious artwork, sacred spaces, or inspirational decor, there are countless ways to make your faith a visible and cherished part of your daily life. With resources like Holyart, finding unique and meaningful items to express your beliefs has never been easier. By incorporating these elements, you create a home that not only welcomes guests but also invites a sense of peace, devotion, and divine presence.

Designing For Comfort: Building A Sensory-Supportive Home For Individuals With Autism

Modern Architecture Concept

Creating a sensory-friendly home is crucial for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as it helps improve their comfort and functionality in their living spaces.

Designing such a home goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about creating a nurturing environment that minimizes sensory overload and promotes a feeling of security and wellness. Today, we’ll briefly go over a what this design can entail and the good it can do for your loved one.

Let’s start with the visual aspects. It’s important to understand that the color scheme can play a pivotal role. Studies show soft hues and shades within the green-blue spectrum help calm the mind and reduce anxiety. Opting for natural materials in furniture and flooring may also diminish sensory triggers, enhancing the calming atmosphere. It’s wise to test paint samples and materials before finalizing a choice to verify that they meet sensory needs.

Lighting is another essential factor. While natural light is beneficial, having adjustable window treatments is vital to manage it based on daily or seasonal needs. For artificial lighting, choose bulbs that offer a high color rendering index (CRI) to emulate natural light while avoiding harshness. You may also want to consider using multiple light sources with dimmable features. This allows for customized settings that adapt to specific needs and times. 

Managing noise is equally critical. Soundproofing can block intrusive external noises, and using soft furnishings such as thick curtains and plush rugs inside the home can muffle sounds, reducing echoes and creating a more tranquil environment. Selecting appliances and fixtures that operate quietly can also contribute to a peaceful atmosphere.

Effective storage solutions can further create a sensory-friendly environment by minimizing clutter. A tidy space reduces stress and sensory overload. Closed storage systems help organize and simplify the space, keeping visual distractions low and maintaining calmness.

The overall layout and flow of the home are important too. Make sure there are clear pathways and ample space to move around, which helps prevent overstimulation and anxiety from cramped or cluttered areas.

Incorporating personalized sensory-friendly zones is also beneficial. These areas might feature tactile toys, weighted blankets or soft lighting, tailored to individual sensory preferences, providing safe spaces for relaxation or sensory regulation.

Designing a sensory-friendly home should be a fulfilling experience. It’s a chance to creatively tailor a space that not only meets functional requirements but also supports the emotional and psychological health of its occupants. This approach turns the home into a sanctuary that aligns with and enhances the lifestyle and sensory needs of its inhabitants. 

For more insights and practical tips on crafting a sensory-friendly home, be sure to check the accompanying resource.

A Simple Guide To Creating A Sensory Friendly Home was created by The Autism Treatment Center of America, a provider of autism consulting services

Unconventional Ways to Infuse Wedding Flowers into Your Home

Modern Architecture Concept

In today’s fast-paced world, finding solace in nature has become increasingly important. Home décor enthusiasts are continuously seeking innovative ways to bring the beauty of the outdoors inside, creating spaces that evoke a sense of tranquillity and connection with the natural world!

One emerging trend that embodies this desire is the use of wedding flowers in home decoration. Sola wood flowers, crafted from tapioca plant stems, offer a sustainable and versatile alternative to fresh or artificial flowers. What makes them truly remarkable is their ability to add a touch of elegance, whimsy, and creativity to any living space. While incorporating sola wood flowers into your home décor may seem unconventional at first, the results are nothing short of breathtaking.

In this article, we will explore a myriad of inspiring ideas that showcase the unique ways sola wood flowers can be incorporated into your home. From enchanting floral chandeliers that illuminate your dining area to floral curtains that divide your space with natural beauty, these suggestions will transform your living environment into an oasis of serenity.

Discover how sola wood flowers can become captivating wall art, adding texture and dimension to your favorite rooms. Unleash your creativity by arranging these flowers on bookshelves, creating stunning wreaths, or even adorning your staircase with an unexpected burst of color. Additionally, we will explore how wooden flowers can be used to bring life to lanterns, mobiles, and fireplace displays.

Embrace the beauty of sola wood flowers and let nature’s elegance become an integral part of your home décor. Let’s embark on a journey of imagination and creativity, exploring the limitless possibilities that these enchanting flowers offer. Get ready to infuse your living space with a touch of nature’s splendor that will captivate your senses and leave guests in awe.

Hanging Flower Chandelier

Create a stunning and unexpected centerpiece by hanging a chandelier made entirely of sola wood flowers. Use an assortment of colorful flowers and hang it above your dining table or in the living room to create a conversation-starting focal point.

Flower Wall Art

Design a unique and eye-catching wall art installation using sola wood flowers. Arrange the flowers in a pattern or create a three-dimensional effect by layering them. Paint the flowers in bold, unconventional colors for an even more disruptive look.

Floral Curtain Room Divider

Instead of using traditional curtains or dividers, hang strings of sola wood flowers to separate different areas of a room. This unconventional approach adds a touch of whimsy and natural beauty to your space while serving a practical purpose.

Bookshelf Overflowing with Flowers

Infuse your bookshelf with a burst of vibrant hues and varied textures by incorporating sola wood flowers. Scatter the flowers amidst the books or utilize them to craft petite floral arrangements on different shelves. This unexpected fusion will undoubtedly make your bookshelf a standout feature.

Floral Canopy Suspension

Metamorphose your ceiling into a genuine work of art by installing a suspended assemblage of sola wood flowers. Gracefully drape vines and blossoms across the expanse of the ceiling to fashion a natural and visually arresting effect that is sure to astonish your guests.

Sola Wood Blossom Wreaths

Break free from conventional wreath materials and fashion unconventional wreaths using sola wood flowers. Hang them on your front door, above the fireplace, or even employ them as an extraordinary centerpiece on your dining table.

Blossoming Staircase

Decorate your staircase with sola wood flowers for a disruptive and visually enchanting effect. Affix the flowers along the handrails or expertly weave them into the balusters. This unexpected embellishment will impart a whimsical touch to your home.

Lanterns Overflowing with Flowers

Fill lanterns with a delightful arrangement of trendy sola wood flowers and place them on your porch, patio, or even indoors. The combination of gentle, radiant light and vivid flowers engenders a mesmerizing and unforeseen ambiance.

Floral Suspension

Craft a striking floral suspension using sola wood flowers and suspend it in a nursery, bedroom, or any other area within your home. The floating flowers will infuse a whimsical touch and create a visually disruptive element within the space.

Fireplace Overflowing with Flowers

If you possess a non-functional fireplace, fill it with an assortment of sola wood flowers. Arrange them in a manner that mimics the flickering flames, generating a surprising and captivating focal point in your living room.

Incorporating sola wood flowers into the realm of your home décor transcends mere design choices; it represents a reconnection with nature and the creation of a space that reflects your individuality. So, venture forth and embrace the splendor of sola wood flowers, and witness the transformation of your home into a sanctuary of natural elegance and artistic expression.

Be it a flower-filled chandelier suspended above your dining table, a striking mobile adorning a nursery, or the transformation of your bookshelf into a floral masterpiece, sola wood flowers provoke conversation, inspire creativity, and disrupt the conventional perceptions of home décor.

These versatile flowers even lend themselves to unforeseen locations such as lanterns and non-functioning fireplaces, offering an unexpected twist that captivates and mesmerizes. Each arrangement becomes a testament to your unique style and a celebration of nature’s marvels.

So, unleash your imagination, blend and merge ideas, and transform your home into a canvas that showcases nature’s grandeur. With sola wood flowers, you possess the ability to create an environment that not only pleases the eye but also nurtures the soul!

Elevating Your Home’s Aesthetics: The Power of Design and Details

Michelle from Modern Architecture Concept

Creating a visually stunning and picture-perfect home goes beyond mere functionality; it’s about capturing the essence of your personal style and transforming your living spaces into a reflection of your taste and personality!

Photos By: Unsplash

From the overall design concept to the smallest details, every element plays a crucial role in making your home truly remarkable. In this article, we will explore various strategies and ideas to help you elevate the aesthetics of your home and turn it into a captivating masterpiece.

1. Embrace a Cohesive Design Theme

One of the fundamental aspects of making your home visually appealing is establishing a cohesive design theme. Choose a style that resonates with you, such as minimalistic, contemporary, rustic, or eclectic, and integrate it throughout your home. Consistency in design creates a sense of harmony and balance, making the space more visually pleasing. Consider elements like color schemes, textures, and patterns that align with your chosen theme.

2. Harness the Power of Colors

Colors have a profound impact on our emotions and perceptions. Strategic use of colors can instantly transform the ambiance of a room. Experiment with different hues to create the desired atmosphere. Lighter shades like pastels and neutrals can make a space feel airy and serene, while bold and vibrant colors add energy and personality. Consider incorporating accent colors through accessories, accent walls, or furniture to create focal points and visual interest.

3. Maximize Natural Light

Natural light not only illuminates your home but also enhances its beauty. Make the most of natural light by ensuring unobstructed windows and using sheer or translucent window coverings that allow sunlight to filter through. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making your home feel bright and open. Avoid heavy draperies or dark-colored blinds that block light and make the space appear smaller.

4. Elevating Your Home’s Aesthetics: The Power of Window Furnishings

When it comes to transforming your home into a captivating masterpiece, every detail counts. From the color palette on your walls to the furniture arrangement, each element plays a significant role in creating the desired ambiance. However, one aspect that is often overlooked but can greatly impact the overall aesthetics of your home is window furnishings. The right choice of curtains, blinds, or shades can elevate the visual appeal of any space, enhancing both its beauty and functionality. In this article, we will delve into the art of utilizing window furnishings to make your home truly picture perfect.

The Impact of Window Furnishings on Home Décor

Window furnishings are not merely practical solutions for privacy and light control; they are also powerful tools for enhancing the beauty of your home’s interior. Let’s explore some key aspects of how window furnishings can transform your living spaces:

Light Control and Privacy

Window furnishings allow you to control the amount of natural light entering your home while ensuring privacy. The choice of window coverings can significantly affect the ambiance of a room. Sheer curtains, for example, gently diffuse sunlight, creating a soft and ethereal atmosphere. On the other hand, blackout curtains or blinds provide complete darkness, making them ideal for bedrooms or home theaters.

Aesthetics and Style

Window furnishings serve as an essential part of your home’s design scheme, adding texture, color, and visual interest. The right choice of curtains, blinds, or shades can complement your overall décor theme and create a cohesive look. For a luxurious and elegant style, consider floor-length curtains in rich fabrics like silk or velvet. If you prefer a more minimalist and contemporary look, opt for sleek and streamlined blinds or shades

Visual Impact and Focal Points

Well-designed window furnishings can serve as captivating focal points in your living spaces. Floor-to-ceiling curtains, for example, draw the eye upward, making the room appear larger and more grandiose. By choosing bold patterns or vibrant colors, you can add a striking element to an otherwise neutral space. Additionally, layering curtains with blinds or shades can create depth and dimension, adding a touch of sophistication to your windows.

Energy Efficiency

Window furnishings also contribute to energy efficiency in your home. They act as insulators, helping to regulate the temperature and reduce heat loss or gain through windows. Thick, heavy curtains or blinds with thermal linings can provide extra insulation, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This not only improves comfort but also reduces energy consumption and lowers utility bills.

Flexibility and Functionality

Window furnishings offer flexibility in terms of light control and privacy. Adjustable blinds or shades allow you to regulate the amount of natural light entering the room throughout the day. Motorized options provide convenience and allow you to control the window coverings with the touch of a button. By choosing window furnishings that suit your lifestyle and needs, you can enhance the functionality of your living spaces.

Window Treatments for Different Rooms

Consider the specific requirements of each room when selecting window furnishings:

– Living Room: Sheer curtains or light-filtering shades can create an inviting and airy atmosphere while preserving privacy. Layering with heavier curtains provides versatility and adds a touch of elegance.

– Bedroom: Opt for blackout curtains or blinds that effectively block out light for a restful sleep. Consider floor-length curtains or drapes for a luxurious and cozy feel.

– Kitchen: Blinds or shades made of easy-to-clean materials, such as faux wood or vinyl, are practical choices for the kitchen. They provide privacy while allowing natural light to filter through. Consider moisture-resistant options that can withstand the humidity and occasional splashes.

– Bathroom: Window coverings in the bathroom should prioritize privacy and moisture resistance. Venetian blinds, roller shades, or cellular shades made of waterproof or water-resistant materials are suitable options. Sheer curtains can also be paired with a waterproof liner for added privacy.

– Home Office: Consider window furnishings that reduce glare and provide optimal light control for your home office. Blinds or shades with light-filtering properties are ideal, allowing sufficient natural light while minimizing distractions.

Case Studies: Transforming Spaces with Window Furnishings

Let’s explore a few case studies to showcase the transformative power of window furnishings:

Case Study 1: Living Room Transformation

A living room with large windows and neutral walls can be elevated with floor-length, textured curtains in a rich color. The curtains add depth, softness, and a touch of sophistication to the space, creating a focal point that draws the eye. Paired with sheer blinds for light control and privacy during the day, this combination allows for versatility and aesthetic appeal.

B Case Study 2: Bedroom Serenity

A serene bedroom can be achieved with the right choice of window furnishings. Floor-to-ceiling blackout curtains in a soothing color create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, blocking out external light and ensuring restful sleep. By layering the curtains with sheer blinds, you can have the option to filter light during the day while maintaining privacy.

C Case Study 3: Modern Kitchen

A modern kitchen can benefit from sleek and minimalist window furnishings. Horizontal or vertical blinds in a metallic or wood finish add a contemporary touch, allowing precise control over light and privacy. These blinds are also easy to clean, making them a practical choice for a kitchen environment.

Window furnishings play a significant role in transforming your home into a visually stunning and functional space. From enhancing natural light and privacy to adding style and focal points, the right choice of curtains, blinds, or shades can elevate the overall aesthetics of your living spaces. By carefully considering the design, functionality, and materials of window furnishings, you can create a picture-perfect home that reflects your personal style and taste.

5. Focus on Furniture and Layout

The furniture you choose and how you arrange it greatly impacts the overall aesthetics of your home. Consider these points:

  1. Statement Pieces: Incorporate statement furniture pieces that serve as focal points. These can be unique and eye-catching items like an elegant sofa, an intricately designed coffee table, or a striking accent chair.
  2. Balance and Proportion: Arrange furniture in a way that creates balance and proportion within the space. Avoid cluttering the room with too much furniture, as it can make the space feel cramped. Allow for ample circulation and ensure that the scale of furniture matches the size of the room.
  3. Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix different styles and materials to create an eclectic and personalized look. Combining vintage and modern pieces or blending various textures can add depth and visual interest to your home.

6. The Impact of Lighting

Lighting is a crucial element in setting the mood and highlighting the beauty of your home. Consider the following lighting options:

  1. Natural Light: As mentioned earlier, maximizing natural light is key. Keep windows clean and unobstructed to allow the sunlight to flood in. Consider installing skylights or larger windows in areas where more natural light is desired.
  2. Ambient Lighting: This is the overall lighting that provides a warm and inviting atmosphere. Use ceiling-mounted fixtures, chandeliers, or recessed lights to illuminate the entire room evenly. Dimmer switches allow you to adjust the brightness according to the desired ambiance.
  3. Task Lighting: Task lighting is essential for specific activities such as reading, cooking, or working. Incorporate table lamps, floor lamps, or pendant lights to provide focused lighting where needed. Consider adjustable options to cater to different tasks and preferences.
  4. Accent Lighting: Accent lighting adds drama and highlights specific features or objects in your home. Use wall sconces, picture lights, or spotlights to draw attention to artworks, architectural details, or other focal points.

7. The Power of Art and Accessories:

Artwork and accessories play a significant role in adding character and personal touch to your home. Consider the following tips:

  1. Artwork: Select pieces of art that resonate with your style and preferences. Whether it’s paintings, sculptures, or photographs, artwork can serve as a focal point and conversation starter. Hang them at eye level and consider the scale and proportion in relation to the wall and furniture.
  2. Mirrors: Mirrors can visually expand a space, reflect light, and add depth to a room. Strategic placement of mirrors can make a small room appear larger and create an illusion of more natural light.
  3. Textiles and Rugs: Introduce texture, color, and pattern through textiles and rugs. Layer different textures and materials to create visual interest. Play with patterns and colors that complement your overall design theme.
  4. Personal Touches: Display items that hold sentimental value or tell a story about your life and experiences. These personal touches add a unique touch and make your home feel more inviting and authentic.
  5. Declutter and Organize:

A clutter-free home not only looks visually appealing but also promotes a sense of calm and serenity. Decluttering and organizing your space is essential to create a picture-perfect home. Consider the following:

  1. Storage Solutions: Invest in storage solutions that help you keep items organized and out of sight. Utilize shelves, baskets, bins, and built-in cabinets to maximize storage space.
  2. Minimalism: Embrace minimalism by removing unnecessary items and keeping only what you truly love and need. A clean and organized space allows other design elements to shine and creates a sense of tranquility.
  3. Editing and Curating: Regularly review your decor items and furniture. Remove anything that doesn’t align with your style or the desired aesthetic. Edit and curate your space to ensure a cohesive and intentional look.

Conclusion

Transforming your home into a picture-perfect masterpiece requires attention to detail and a thoughtful approach to design. By incorporating these strategies and ideas, you can elevate the aesthetics of your home and create a space that not only looks visually stunning but also reflects your personal style and taste. From window furnishings to lighting, furniture arrangement to accessories, every element contributes to the overall ambiance and beauty of your home. Embrace the power of design and details, and watch as your home becomes a captivating haven that you can truly be proud of.

Further Ideas to Elevate Your Home’s Aesthetics

  1. Customization and Personalization:

When it comes to window furnishings, customization allows you to create a truly unique and personalized look. Consider custom-made curtains or blinds that perfectly fit your windows and align with your design vision. You can choose from a wide range of fabrics, patterns, and finishes to match your style and add a distinctive touch to your home.

  1. Layering and Texture:

Experimenting with layering and texture can add depth and visual interest to your window treatments. Combine different types of window coverings, such as sheer curtains with Roman shades or blinds, to create a multi-dimensional look. Mixing textures like silk, linen, or velvet can further enhance the aesthetics and create a luxurious atmosphere.

  1. Hardware and Accessories:

Don’t overlook the importance of window hardware and accessories. Curtain rods, finials, and tiebacks can complement your window furnishings and add a polished touch. Choose hardware finishes that harmonize with the overall design scheme, whether it’s brushed nickel, bronze, or matte black. Additionally, decorative trimmings, such as tassels or fringe, can provide an extra decorative element and elevate the overall look.

  1. Seasonal Updates:

Consider changing your window furnishings seasonally to refresh the look of your home. In warmer months, opt for lightweight and breezy curtains or blinds that allow ample sunlight and airflow. During colder seasons, switch to heavier fabrics or thermal curtains that provide insulation and a cozy feel.

  1. Exterior Window Treatments:

To enhance the curb appeal of your home, consider exterior window treatments as well. Exterior shutters, awnings, or outdoor blinds can add charm and character to the exterior of your home while providing shade and protection from the elements. Coordinate the style and color of your exterior window treatments with the overall architectural design for a cohesive and visually appealing look.

  1. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Options:

Incorporating eco-friendly window furnishings is not only beneficial for the environment but also adds a unique touch to your home. Look for materials that are sustainably sourced, such as bamboo or organic cotton. Consider window treatments with energy-saving properties, like cellular shades or insulated curtains, which can reduce heat loss and save on energy costs.

  1. Window Gardens and Greenery:

Enhance the beauty of your windows by incorporating window gardens or greenery. Install floating shelves or window boxes to display potted plants or herbs. The lush greenery will not only add freshness to your home but also create a natural and vibrant frame for your windows.

  1. Professional Advice and Installation:

Seeking professional advice and assistance can ensure that your window furnishings are installed correctly and achieve the desired effect. Interior designers or window treatment specialists can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right materials, styles, and configurations to suit your home’s architecture and design.

By incorporating these additional ideas and tips, you can further elevate the aesthetics of your home through the use of window furnishings. Remember, the key is to align your choices with your personal style, preferences, and the overall design theme of your home. With attention to detail and thoughtful consideration, your windows can become stunning focal points that enhance the beauty and ambiance of your living spaces.

6 Dramatic and Bold Interior Design Ideas for all Budgets

Modern Architecture Concept

For many homeowners, impressing those that step foot in their home can be just as important as creating a space that they themselves are happy with!

Photos By: Unsplash

While we don’t all have the same taste, homemakers often agonize over the right bold color or distinct design that they feel will excite others as much as it does them. If your own house is in desperate need of that extra aesthetic spark, there’s a wider range of possibilities out there than a trip to the paint shop — and they don’t all have to break the bank either. We’ve narrowed down six elegant and timeless additions to your home that will lend it a huge dose of personality, charm and sophistication — some with the extra benefit of functionality too.

High budget features

Home lifts

Aside from offering enhanced accessibility for those with mobility issues in your home, installing a domestic lift is a fantastic way to future-proof a property, adding convenience, comfort, and class. As Premier Lift Group explain: “People who may not necessarily need a home lift, but want one for their potentially jaw-dropping aesthetic value will treasure it, with bespoke lifts in particular [providing] a striking focal point that gives one luxury home an edge over another.”

Before going ahead with the installation though, you should seek out a consultation with an architect and lift designer in order to keep abreast of the different factors at play. For instance, who will be using the lift the most? How many people will use it in total? Bear in mind that a bespoke lift can be adapted into the structure of your home, but how this is done depends on the scale, frequency of use, and safety regulations.

Oversized chandeliers

Adding an oversized chandelier, either in a modern build or an older property, blends tradition with elegance and creativity. There may, in fact, be no bolder statement for a home that exists today. As Lindye Gallaway points out, it’s a great way to draw attention to something while still making it transitional and beautiful for your aesthetic.

The living room is the most common location for a chandelier, but, if placed in the reception or entry area, it can create a feeling of opulence as soon as you enter the property. If the hallway width is not accommodating enough, or you’d rather put up the chandelier in a more open space, the living room is just the ticket  — just make sure that it doesn’t obstruct the view of any art or prints on the walls, or your TV.

Medium budget features

Large contemporary canvas art

Forget that reproduction of Monet or Picasso — if you have a more mid-range budget, you can’t go wrong with a striking contemporary art canvas to really tie the space together and give your home a modern feel.

Make sure that the surrounding area looks polished and uncluttered though, so you can emphasize its dramatic features without distraction. Having a few smaller artworks instead may be less costly and imposing, but these can look disorganized on an expansive wall space. Save them for other parts of your house instead, and opt for a large canvas.

For framing and mounting, a considered choice can provide some extra panache and presence. For the canvas in particular, many prefer a tray or floater frame. As Soho Frames point out, these can be made from a “variety of solid woods such as oak, walnut, maple, tulip, beech, ash, pine, wenge”. Though these are more expensive than plain wood, they will certainly be more reliable — not to mention sleek and elegant.

Floor to ceiling bookcase

Nothing screams sophistication and culture like an aesthetically pleasing bookshelf. Whether you’ve got an addiction to buying books or a large wall you just don’t know what to do with, floor to ceiling bookshelves are more functional than they might seem. Their classic wood feel highlights both the top and bottom of the space it sits in, but can also be used to display antiques and any other unique items you have.

As The Spruce suggests: “This kind of shelving is also perfect for home offices when you want to have an additional storage area near and or above your desk — and can even work as additional dining room or kitchen storage”.

Low budget features

Bold colors for walls and ceiling

A bright, deep, or intense shade for your walls can instantly transform the look of the entire room. While many opt for more traditional, neutral shades such as beige, grey or cream, if you want to make a statement, go big.

Taking blue as our example, dark or classic hues balance out the more earthy wood tones or house plants you may have. On the more pronounced side, turquoise is underrated due to its highly distinctive tone, but it’s actually more malleable than you might expect — as MyMove maintains, this shade “can be soft and subdued, rich and bold or bright and playful”.

Just remember to paint the ceiling as well — this is a common aspect that people neglect. In fact, you could even use a different color, whether lighter or darker, for heightened contrast.

Dramatic lighting

A striking shade is all very well, but if it’s not accentuated and complemented with thoughtful lighting, you may as well have left it as is. For walls that are dark, lights are instrumental for the room’s total decor. These fixtures will be more pronounced when placed on dark walls, so being a bit picky about the style is essential.

For instance, you could invite a mood from the bygone roaring twenties by installing art deco orbs, which pair well with floor lamps. You want to choose lights with as much personality as possible — to quote My Domaine, “bold or sculptural pendant lighting fixtures often feels more like art than a utilitarian necessity”. It just goes to show how you can start to refine your interior design from the smaller details, giving your home flair for years to come.