Decorating Ideas – Page 5 – Modern Architecture Concept

Create your own unique decorating look by mixing old architecture and furniture with new, modern pieces. Here’s how to do this the right way!

Photos via: Houzz

You may have heard from some period feature purist that mixing modern and old is sacrilege when it comes to making the most of historical features. However, mixing the new with the old can create a stamp to your home that is uniquely you. Renovating period features and laying down modern flooring and painting styles can really highlight design aspects of a historic home that keeping it in its former condition simply wouldn’t.

Get an Extension

If you’re currently residing in a Victorian terrace, for example, one of its historic features might be its unfortunate lack of space. Sometimes beautiful old terrace houses don’t quite have the square footage we’d hoped for, as they were initially designed for mining and factory communities who could only afford a two-up two-down property. If this is the case for your property, it could be well worth your while getting an extension to open it up and transform the look of the interior. This is particularly great if you’re looking to install patio doors or extra room for a dining room. Installing patio doors is a great way to make your home exterior look classy, while keeping the inside of your home bright and well lit. Of course, make sure to purchase high quality patio doors to ensure their quality.

However, if the idea of going wide doesn’t appeal to you – then think upwards. You can also add an extension in the form of a loft conversion. Adding an extra level to your house frees up plenty of space, but without having to add an extra block of building that wasn’t previously there. Not only is it discreet, but you can play around with how the staircase is situated, and any wooden beams that could be brought into the design.

Contrast curtains with window frames

If you have beautiful double glazed sash windows, it’s a good idea to make the most of them – after all modern builds don’t come with these charming features. If you’re incorporating modern features into your house, but don’t want to lose focus of your windows, then putting modern curtains up can draw attention to where the light is coming in. Using single block colours, contemporary patters or slate greys will immediately give your home a modern twist in a way that compliments its older features.

Don’t be afraid to go industrial

Industrial styling is perhaps one of the most modern aesthetics you can go for. Steel and metal beams and structures will instantly add a contemporary touch. You will be surprised by just how elegant industrial structures can look: what makes them look part of the house is how they fit into the whole picture. Putting potted plants and ornaments on a metal shelf or putting steel structures amongst wooden ones will create a pleasant and eye-catching contrast, not an obtrusive one.

Mixing modern and old is almost as old as time itself. What constitutes as modern now, might change a few years down the line. This is why you shouldn’t be afraid to experiment – mixing up the two is more about the contrast than making a statement about today’s trends. Keep the features that stand out as being beautiful, and be brave with parts of your property that can be changed.

Got too many collections and special items but do not like to let go of them or where to place them? We have a solution for you!

Photos: Houzz

There are various kinds of bookcases and shelves that are available on the market that is why many customers get a little confused. Having to choose between glass shelves or wood floating shelves which are both not created equal, we will not just identify which one is better than the other. Also, we will identify which one is better for you.

Such floating shelves help you in achieving a smooth and refined look that you will be proud to showcase, especially when home visitors arrive. Read on to help you decide.

Unbreaking glass shelves

Knowing which type of glass the shelves are made from is important. When considering buying shelves made from glass, you should check the glass if it is designed with a low chance of getting shattered or chipped easily. We know that most glasses will break once dropped. Another option is the tempered glass which is scratch-resistant and is less likely to get cracked. Take note that if the glass is strengthened by heat, it is twice as strong as that of a regular glass.

Plus, identify the shelf strength through the thickness. The thicker the glass, the stronger it gets. For example, a thick standard glass shelf is stronger than a thinner tempered glass shelf. The allowable weight to be put on the shelves has a rating provided for it.

Knocking on wood shelves

Did you know that not all wood shelves are actually made of real wood? A solid core of pressed cheaper wood or plywood called ‘engineered’ wood then covered with a finish, veneer or paint is what the wood shelves are made of. Cheaper than real wood and is made from recycled materials, these shelves are often light in weight and stronger in quality than the real wood. Still, having the most beautiful and rich colors from real wood shelves are more expensive.

Which one is better than the other?

When deciding between glass shelves and wood shelves, ask yourself first the following questions:

What am I going to put on these shelves?

For heavy and/or large items to fill up the shelf, wood would be the better choice. Do not risk the strength of glass shelves with this case to make you worry less. For displaying your precious collection, glass shelves are recommended as it helps to highlight what is on display, adding aesthetic to your home.

What specific area at home am I going to place these shelves?

If you are going to have the shelves in your kitchen, choose the glass one to easily clean the grease off. Kitchen cleaning products would not hurt the glass but will chew up wood. While if the shelves are going to be put in the bathroom, glass is also a good option for humidity and residue.

In your living room, wood would be a better choice to feel the warmth and inviting feeling than the cold and modern look of glass.

Will these shelves be out of reach of children?

If the shelves can be accessible by children, beware of accidents to possibly happen. Kids might damage and/or shatter the glass shelf or worse, get cut by it.

What lighting is available for the shelf?

In highlighting the contents of the shelves, lighting is an essential factor. It would be much better to see the spines of the book when placed on the shelves as well as for smaller items, glass shelves will give more visibility even those which are displayed towards the back of the lower shelves. Bookshelves help you to be able to decorate without taking up too much space. Not only this helps you get things in place but it also adds accent to your home. Whether it be glass or wood, take your time in choosing which one suits your preferences. Just a reminder, keep your things organized and make it in style.

Have you already decided if it going to be made of glass or wood material? Head on to the nearest store and shop for bookshelves now!