Julia shows you how you to DIY an awesome mirror in this video!
Showing posts with label mirrors. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mirrors. Show all posts
Monday, November 4, 2013
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Decorating with Mirrors
In a
decorator’s arsenal of tools, decorating with mirrors is one of the most
powerful. Using mirrors in the home can make it look bigger and expansive. Read
on for some of the tricks to decorating with mirrors.
 |
Go big with mirrors
To
maximize its impact, use large-scale mirrors in a room. Try using wall-to-wall
mirrors and see how much depth is created in a space. Think in terms of
proportions as well. If the wall is wide, a small mirror will look sparse and
out of place. Instead, group together mirrors in different sizes to use the
area better.
Use mirrors as artwork
Mirrors
may be used as a substitute for artwork. Use them as a focal point of the room
by having one standout piece, such as a mirror in a starburst design. In the alternative,
hang several mirrors the way that you would pictures or paintings.
Keep in mind that mirrors are
reflective surfaces
Mirrors
have to reflect something that you want to see more of. For instance, place a
mirror across a beautiful piece of artwork or a chandelier. If the mirror
reflects random things, the room will tend to look cluttered.
Play with textures
The
surface of the mirror does not always have to look clear. I love the look of
vintage, so distressed or antiqued mirrors add charm to our living spaces.
Another option is to have etched mirrors. Having mirrors with character can be
another method of creating visual interest in a room.
No need to hang
Mirrors
don’t always have to be nailed on a wall. An interesting way to decorate with
mirrors is to place a framed mirror on the floor, leaned against a wall. My
mother-in-law leans a large, vertical mirror at the end of their hallway. It
adds an air of effortless charm to a room's decor!
Learn to edit
Just
because mirrors are a good idea, it does not mean that you should use it
everywhere. Know when to recognize that mirrors are unnecessary. For instance,
you don’t need mirrors in the kitchen. Our neighbour has mirrors as backsplash
accents. It takes so much effort to keep them looking good. All the activity in
the kitchen will require constant maintenance for the mirrors, which would make
them more trouble than they’re worth.
Mirrors can be used in furniture
Mirrors
can be interesting accents when they are found in furniture. They have the tendency
to make items look invisible, since they reflect what is in front of them.
Select bulky furniture, such as a wardrobe, with a mirrored surface to make it
seamlessly blend into a room. Mirrors on top of tables or trays are also quite
glamorous.
 |
Use mirrors to create a window
Not all
rooms have the benefit of the view of the outside. After getting married, my
husband and I moved into a tiny shoebox flat. To spruce up the space, we added
mirrors as architectural details. Frame a mirror with window shutters to create
your own unique views.
Use mirrors outdoors
Decorating
with mirrors does not mean being confined indoors. Mirrors can also be used as
landscaping elements to make the garden or patio more interesting. For
instance, a mirror on the ground framed by rocks and plants can mimic the look
of a small pool of water. Additionally, placing a mirror at your garden can
also make it look twice as large.
Think of the frames
Decorating
with mirrors is not just about the mirror itself. Do not take the impact of the
frame for granted. They too, can be utilized for maximum impact. For example,
gold-framed mirrors can make a room quite elegant. Faux tortoiseshell frames
add earthiness to a room.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Choosing Illuminated Bathroom Mirrors Rather Than Conventional Types
Mirror mirror on the wall...
Article taken off allbestarticles.com
Choosing Illuminated Bathroom Mirrors Rather Than Conventional Types
Your bathroom renovations or upgrades should be done with a lot of care and thought. Get to know the different products available on the market area. By doing so, you'll have extremely satisfactory results. That's because you will definitely bring in beauty as well as practicality and function. All these are very important in the bathroom. That will bring you to comparing the various items on the market, like vanities or mirrors. Then you would clearly seeing why you should choose illuminated bathroom mirrors over conventional ones.
Technology and innovation have touched practically every product as we know it today. Avoiding moving forward will only keep us back. That means that we won't be bringing in the best things to simplify our lives and make our homes function better.
What you put into your home is exactly what you're going to get out of it. For example, if you find storage solutions and use them to their full extent, you will have an organized and stress-free home. And, when you invest in products that can be time-savers, you actually make life so much easier for yourself.
These bathroom mirrors which light up will improve your home. In terms of style, there are numerous models to choose from area they come in all types of shapes and sizes as well. So, it won't be difficult to find the right one. All you have to do is apply some interior design tricks and you'll figure it out. That means being patient.
Its design, shape, and size should all blend in well with the overall decor. For instance, in a contemporary bathroom, it would probably be best to choose something that is square or rectangular. There should be no fussiness about it and no curves at all.
With regards to the size, this too is extremely important. Making an incorrect decision will affect the outcome. One of the biggest mistake that people make is incorporating a mirror that's far too small for the size of the vanity or the wall.
After having said all that, you need to focus on the particular item and what it can do for you. For one thing, it brings an extra light in the room that really needs it. As most people get themselves ready in this room, having the best lighting is absolutely necessary. It facilitates applying makeup, shaving, or other task that you may have. The problem with conventional mirrors is that we rely on them and they give us false results because the lighting usually comes from the ceiling. That can cast shadows and render tasks practically impossible to complete.
Article taken off allbestarticles.com
Choosing Illuminated Bathroom Mirrors Rather Than Conventional Types
Your bathroom renovations or upgrades should be done with a lot of care and thought. Get to know the different products available on the market area. By doing so, you'll have extremely satisfactory results. That's because you will definitely bring in beauty as well as practicality and function. All these are very important in the bathroom. That will bring you to comparing the various items on the market, like vanities or mirrors. Then you would clearly seeing why you should choose illuminated bathroom mirrors over conventional ones.
Technology and innovation have touched practically every product as we know it today. Avoiding moving forward will only keep us back. That means that we won't be bringing in the best things to simplify our lives and make our homes function better.
What you put into your home is exactly what you're going to get out of it. For example, if you find storage solutions and use them to their full extent, you will have an organized and stress-free home. And, when you invest in products that can be time-savers, you actually make life so much easier for yourself.
These bathroom mirrors which light up will improve your home. In terms of style, there are numerous models to choose from area they come in all types of shapes and sizes as well. So, it won't be difficult to find the right one. All you have to do is apply some interior design tricks and you'll figure it out. That means being patient.
Its design, shape, and size should all blend in well with the overall decor. For instance, in a contemporary bathroom, it would probably be best to choose something that is square or rectangular. There should be no fussiness about it and no curves at all.
With regards to the size, this too is extremely important. Making an incorrect decision will affect the outcome. One of the biggest mistake that people make is incorporating a mirror that's far too small for the size of the vanity or the wall.
After having said all that, you need to focus on the particular item and what it can do for you. For one thing, it brings an extra light in the room that really needs it. As most people get themselves ready in this room, having the best lighting is absolutely necessary. It facilitates applying makeup, shaving, or other task that you may have. The problem with conventional mirrors is that we rely on them and they give us false results because the lighting usually comes from the ceiling. That can cast shadows and render tasks practically impossible to complete.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Top 10 Must-have Home Accessories
Let's check out the importance of home accessories!
Article taken off tlc.howstuffworks.com
Top 10 Must-have Home Accessories
1. Mirrors
For the ultimate in accessories, try adding mirrors to your home décor. Though we look into our mirrors many times throughout the day, rarely do we see the magic that is contained in these devices. Mirrors can serve many purposes, from helping us to fix our appearance to delighting a young child who catches a glimpse of his reflection. Mirrors also are an affordable, effective way to make your home look more spacious. How? Floor-to-ceiling mirrors, like those found on many closet doors, can instantly make a room look twice as big. A mirror placed across from a window will bring more natural light into your home, making it appear more spacious. Small mirrors placed in dark or small corners can draw light to the area and brighten it up.
Beyond these practical uses, mirrors are simply beautiful decorating items and come in many shapes and sizes. A large framed mirror can be hung like a painting, making it a centerpiece in a room. Even small hand mirrors, typically silver, can act as complementary accessories to your décor.
The earliest incarnations date back to the 1st century A.D. and were made of pieces of silver or bronze that were highly polished. Hand mirrors, and later full-body mirrors became popular in the Middle Ages, though it wasn't until the time of the Renaissance that anyone thought to add glass to improve the reflective images. This improvement was added by the Venetians, who were renowned for their glasswork. Their mirrors became popular throughout Europe because of the superior reflective quality they offered.
As mirror-making techniques improved, they became cheaper to produce. By the 19th century, they were found in most households throughout the western world. Today you'd be hard-pressed to find a home without some kind of mirror.
2. Candles
Candles have been used throughout history to provide light, warmth and ambiance in the home. They're often associated with romance and are a great way to create a mood of relaxation or calm. Almost every home has a selection of candles handy in case of power outages.
The earliest candles were created by the ancient Romans, who rolled sheets of papyrus and dipped them in melted tallow. It is believed that the Chinese created candles in the same way, using rice paper in lieu of papyrus. Since this time, the wax used to create candles has changed dramatically. The early tallow that was used created a bad smell when burned and was messy due to soot and debris. It was eventually replaced by beeswax, whale oil and then paraffin. Today, candles made with soybean wax are popular, as the wax is soft, slow burning and odor-free.
Throughout history, candles have played a major part in many religions. Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights, is known for its use of candles, which have played a role in this holiday since its inception around 165 B.C. The emperor Constantine was said to have used candles in an Easter celebration in the 4th century A.D., and there are also references to candles in the bible. Many Buddhists light candles at their shrines, where the candle's light represents the enlightenment they seek. In Wiccan religions, candles represent gods and goddesses and are common during religious ceremonies.
Candles can be incorporated into your home in many forms, from collections of small candles to large pillars in their own decorative holders. Even if they're never lit, today's candles are created to complement your home's décor simply based on their color and design.
3. Houseplants
Houseplants are a great home accessory because they not only look good; they're designed to make you feel good, too. Studies have shown that not only do plants remove carbon dioxide from the air and convert it to oxygen, they also neutralize harmful chemicals like polyethylenes and formaldehydes. These chemicals are naturally occurring in many kinds of furniture, flooring and paints used in the home, and have been linked to respiratory and other illnesses. Some of the best plants for improving air quality include English ivy, bamboo, snake plants and spider plants.
Other studies have shown that plants can decrease stress, improve mood and help us to feel more creative. In a recent study, people with a plant in their office had an average blood pressure four points lower than those without plants. Another study suggested that people could generate more original ideas when they work in areas decorated with plants [source: Relf].
In a decorating sense, plants are appealing both visually and for their scents. Why waste money searching for the right artificial air freshener when plants can do the job for you naturally?
When you're choosing your plants, try to find ones that complement your décor. Ferns and vines work well with Victorian and classic themes, bold colored flowers look great with modern décor, and cactuses fit in well with Southwest or earthy designs.
If you think you're too busy to keep houseplants, think again. Try jade, rubber plants or spider plants, all of which don't require much light, frequent repotting or a great memory when it comes to watering them.
4. Personal Collections
Almost everyone has one of these. That quirky object or collection that people just don't quite understand, but which makes your home feel like it belongs to you. Whether it's that kitty-cat clock on the wall with the wagging tail, or your collection of superhero figurines, your home just wouldn't feel like home without these items.
One popular collection found in many homes is music, either in the form of CDs or classic vinyl records. Equally popular are movie collections. Visitors are often drawn to these collections and can't help but browse to see how your taste in music or movies reflects the you that they know, or are getting to know better, as well as how it compares to their own.
These collections can complement your home décor in other ways too. People who collect art, rugs or other decorative items often showcase them in plain site in their homes. Just as we hang posters of celebrities on our walls as teens, we continue to decorate our homes with our current favorites.
5. Rugs
Nothing feels quite so good as a rug beneath your feet. They offer a layer of warmth and comfort that is unmatched by any other floor covering. Available in infinite patterns, colors and styles, rugs have been used to accessorize homes for thousands of years. Antique rugs are often treated as family heirlooms and passed down through the generations.
The oldest known rug in existence dates back to the 5th century B.C. and is called the "Pazyryk rug." Named for the ancient people who likely produced this rug, it was found in a burial mound in Siberian Russia near the Mongolian border. The rug's design is similar to the art of the people of this region, leading historians to believe that the rug was made locally.
Though the Pazyryk people are credited with creating modern day rug making, it was the Persians who perfected the techniques. Persia, an ancient empire located near modern day Iran, has been renowned since the 1st century B.C. for its exquisite rugs. Throughout history, Persian rugs have been sought after by wealthy collectors all over the world [source: Cole].
Today, these rugs are still one of Iran's main exports. Though much of the rug making process has been mechanized, hand-woven models are the most highly coveted because of their unique craftsmanship. To satisfy this demand, Iran produces over $500 million worth of handcrafted rugs each year for export.
6. Art
From paintings to sculptures to kids' crayon drawings, art is one of the most common and most versatile home accessories. No matter what your tastes or decorating scheme are, you can find or create a piece of art that fits your home's look.
Going for a modern décor? Consider a metal wall-hung sculpture or a bold colorful painting. If your home is more traditional, consider porcelain or ceramic sculpture or a classic landscape. Reprints of classical works are always popular, as are religious pieces like the Christian cross, the Star of David, or Buddha figurines made of jade or rosewood.
One of the best things about art is that it's possible to find items that are truly one of a kind, and will make your home décor unique.
The use of art in home décor dates back to prehistoric times, when ancient man created cave paintings that served as both decoration and communication. Hundreds of these cave paintings still exist today, and serve as popular tourist destinations, especially in France and Spain.
It can be argued that home décor at its most basic form is a type of art. The careful selection of colors, paints, fabrics, flooring and furniture is artful in itself. It takes a skilled eye to match these materials and decorate a home successfully.
7. Nothing!
Some people feel that the best home accessories are none at all. This concept is popular for those with minimalist décor. Minimalism emphasizes the use of color and structure over clutter and complicated decorating themes. A home styled after these concepts would focus on the basics, with the only furniture being required for day-to-day living, and everything else stored away neatly and out of sight. Floors and other surfaces are clear and free of clutter. Solid colors are used in lieu of complex, visually cluttered patterns.
This doesn't mean your home should be completely accessory-free. It simply means that you choose quality over quantity when it comes to décor. A single piece of artwork, a family photograph or a vase of fresh flowers would all complement this look.
Why is this style so appealing? First, it's easy to keep neat. There are no trinkets to dust and not much to shuffle around when you're cleaning. Second, a clutter-free home is calming and helps keep our stress levels low. Without so many things distracting the eye and the mind, we are better able to focus and decompress.
This style takes its roots from Japanese architecture, which in turn is heavily influenced by Buddhism and Zen principles. These principles are based on mindfulness, concentration and self-awareness, all of which are more easily achieved when we're not distracted by the mountain of stuff in our homes.
8. Designer Storage
Does anyone ever have enough storage space in their homes? As people accumulate more and more belongings, they're forever looking for ways to store them. The need for storage has helped develop the concept of storage as design element, where the systems not only keep our belongings organized, but do so in an attractive way. This is done through furniture and containers cleverly designed to maximize both form and function.
Closet organizers are one of the most widely used systems, with countless setups available including shelving, drawers and units designed to hold everything from scarves to snow boots. These storage systems are typically expanded and modified easily so that homeowners can update them as their needs change, or to accommodate that 25th pair of shoes.
Modular garage units are popular as well and allow total flexibility for those who want to organize their tools once and for all. These units consist of wall-hung panels with a selection of hooks and shelving that can be arranged to meet the homeowner's needs.
9. Vases
If you have a vase in your home, you're in very good company. Of all the accessories used in the home, vases have one of the longest histories. The earliest known vases date back to ancient Greece, where they were made mainly for practical uses like the storage of food, medicine, oils and water. Vases have been found dating from around 5000 B.C., and the pictures and carvings they depict present some of the best information we have about ancient Greek life.
The ancient Chinese also produced many vases that have survived to this day, including the exquisitely crafted Ming vase. Produced during the Ming Dynasty
(around 14th to 16th centuries A.D.), these vases were made of porcelain and elaborately painted, making them a highly coveted collector's item today.
Today, vases made from ceramic, crystal and glass are used to complement our home décor. They're popular as a vessel for displaying fresh or synthetic flowers but are also valued for their beauty and decorative aspects. Crystal vases also make great wedding or anniversary gifts.
10. Teapots
In so many homes the teapot is the first object reached for when either celebration or comfort are needed. At the first signs of heartbreak, illness, or a special occasion, the teapot is set onto the stovetop, and families bond over the rich aroma and taste that's both comforting and familiar.
Though tea has been enjoyed for thousands of years, the first teapots weren't introduced until the 1500s. The earliest incarnations, called Yixing teapots, originated in the Jiangsu province of China. They were made from a purple clay called zisha that is found only in this region. The zisha was unique in that it absorbed the flavor and scent of the tea it was used to brew. During this time, many Chinese citizens owned their own teapots and would drink directly from the spout.
The teapot design quickly spread across Asia to Europe, where afternoon tea has been a tradition for centuries.
Today's teapots come in many different varieties, from traditional porcelain to newer insulated models. They can be admired for their beauty and design, or used as a centerpiece. Many teapots are passed down through generations, bringing a touch of family history to the home's décor.
Article taken off tlc.howstuffworks.com
Top 10 Must-have Home Accessories
1. Mirrors
For the ultimate in accessories, try adding mirrors to your home décor. Though we look into our mirrors many times throughout the day, rarely do we see the magic that is contained in these devices. Mirrors can serve many purposes, from helping us to fix our appearance to delighting a young child who catches a glimpse of his reflection. Mirrors also are an affordable, effective way to make your home look more spacious. How? Floor-to-ceiling mirrors, like those found on many closet doors, can instantly make a room look twice as big. A mirror placed across from a window will bring more natural light into your home, making it appear more spacious. Small mirrors placed in dark or small corners can draw light to the area and brighten it up.
Beyond these practical uses, mirrors are simply beautiful decorating items and come in many shapes and sizes. A large framed mirror can be hung like a painting, making it a centerpiece in a room. Even small hand mirrors, typically silver, can act as complementary accessories to your décor.
The earliest incarnations date back to the 1st century A.D. and were made of pieces of silver or bronze that were highly polished. Hand mirrors, and later full-body mirrors became popular in the Middle Ages, though it wasn't until the time of the Renaissance that anyone thought to add glass to improve the reflective images. This improvement was added by the Venetians, who were renowned for their glasswork. Their mirrors became popular throughout Europe because of the superior reflective quality they offered.
As mirror-making techniques improved, they became cheaper to produce. By the 19th century, they were found in most households throughout the western world. Today you'd be hard-pressed to find a home without some kind of mirror.
2. Candles
Candles have been used throughout history to provide light, warmth and ambiance in the home. They're often associated with romance and are a great way to create a mood of relaxation or calm. Almost every home has a selection of candles handy in case of power outages.
The earliest candles were created by the ancient Romans, who rolled sheets of papyrus and dipped them in melted tallow. It is believed that the Chinese created candles in the same way, using rice paper in lieu of papyrus. Since this time, the wax used to create candles has changed dramatically. The early tallow that was used created a bad smell when burned and was messy due to soot and debris. It was eventually replaced by beeswax, whale oil and then paraffin. Today, candles made with soybean wax are popular, as the wax is soft, slow burning and odor-free.
Throughout history, candles have played a major part in many religions. Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights, is known for its use of candles, which have played a role in this holiday since its inception around 165 B.C. The emperor Constantine was said to have used candles in an Easter celebration in the 4th century A.D., and there are also references to candles in the bible. Many Buddhists light candles at their shrines, where the candle's light represents the enlightenment they seek. In Wiccan religions, candles represent gods and goddesses and are common during religious ceremonies.
Candles can be incorporated into your home in many forms, from collections of small candles to large pillars in their own decorative holders. Even if they're never lit, today's candles are created to complement your home's décor simply based on their color and design.
3. Houseplants
Houseplants are a great home accessory because they not only look good; they're designed to make you feel good, too. Studies have shown that not only do plants remove carbon dioxide from the air and convert it to oxygen, they also neutralize harmful chemicals like polyethylenes and formaldehydes. These chemicals are naturally occurring in many kinds of furniture, flooring and paints used in the home, and have been linked to respiratory and other illnesses. Some of the best plants for improving air quality include English ivy, bamboo, snake plants and spider plants.
Other studies have shown that plants can decrease stress, improve mood and help us to feel more creative. In a recent study, people with a plant in their office had an average blood pressure four points lower than those without plants. Another study suggested that people could generate more original ideas when they work in areas decorated with plants [source: Relf].
In a decorating sense, plants are appealing both visually and for their scents. Why waste money searching for the right artificial air freshener when plants can do the job for you naturally?
When you're choosing your plants, try to find ones that complement your décor. Ferns and vines work well with Victorian and classic themes, bold colored flowers look great with modern décor, and cactuses fit in well with Southwest or earthy designs.
If you think you're too busy to keep houseplants, think again. Try jade, rubber plants or spider plants, all of which don't require much light, frequent repotting or a great memory when it comes to watering them.
4. Personal Collections
Almost everyone has one of these. That quirky object or collection that people just don't quite understand, but which makes your home feel like it belongs to you. Whether it's that kitty-cat clock on the wall with the wagging tail, or your collection of superhero figurines, your home just wouldn't feel like home without these items.
One popular collection found in many homes is music, either in the form of CDs or classic vinyl records. Equally popular are movie collections. Visitors are often drawn to these collections and can't help but browse to see how your taste in music or movies reflects the you that they know, or are getting to know better, as well as how it compares to their own.
These collections can complement your home décor in other ways too. People who collect art, rugs or other decorative items often showcase them in plain site in their homes. Just as we hang posters of celebrities on our walls as teens, we continue to decorate our homes with our current favorites.
5. Rugs
Nothing feels quite so good as a rug beneath your feet. They offer a layer of warmth and comfort that is unmatched by any other floor covering. Available in infinite patterns, colors and styles, rugs have been used to accessorize homes for thousands of years. Antique rugs are often treated as family heirlooms and passed down through the generations.
The oldest known rug in existence dates back to the 5th century B.C. and is called the "Pazyryk rug." Named for the ancient people who likely produced this rug, it was found in a burial mound in Siberian Russia near the Mongolian border. The rug's design is similar to the art of the people of this region, leading historians to believe that the rug was made locally.
Though the Pazyryk people are credited with creating modern day rug making, it was the Persians who perfected the techniques. Persia, an ancient empire located near modern day Iran, has been renowned since the 1st century B.C. for its exquisite rugs. Throughout history, Persian rugs have been sought after by wealthy collectors all over the world [source: Cole].
Today, these rugs are still one of Iran's main exports. Though much of the rug making process has been mechanized, hand-woven models are the most highly coveted because of their unique craftsmanship. To satisfy this demand, Iran produces over $500 million worth of handcrafted rugs each year for export.
6. Art
From paintings to sculptures to kids' crayon drawings, art is one of the most common and most versatile home accessories. No matter what your tastes or decorating scheme are, you can find or create a piece of art that fits your home's look.
Going for a modern décor? Consider a metal wall-hung sculpture or a bold colorful painting. If your home is more traditional, consider porcelain or ceramic sculpture or a classic landscape. Reprints of classical works are always popular, as are religious pieces like the Christian cross, the Star of David, or Buddha figurines made of jade or rosewood.
One of the best things about art is that it's possible to find items that are truly one of a kind, and will make your home décor unique.
The use of art in home décor dates back to prehistoric times, when ancient man created cave paintings that served as both decoration and communication. Hundreds of these cave paintings still exist today, and serve as popular tourist destinations, especially in France and Spain.
It can be argued that home décor at its most basic form is a type of art. The careful selection of colors, paints, fabrics, flooring and furniture is artful in itself. It takes a skilled eye to match these materials and decorate a home successfully.
7. Nothing!
Some people feel that the best home accessories are none at all. This concept is popular for those with minimalist décor. Minimalism emphasizes the use of color and structure over clutter and complicated decorating themes. A home styled after these concepts would focus on the basics, with the only furniture being required for day-to-day living, and everything else stored away neatly and out of sight. Floors and other surfaces are clear and free of clutter. Solid colors are used in lieu of complex, visually cluttered patterns.
This doesn't mean your home should be completely accessory-free. It simply means that you choose quality over quantity when it comes to décor. A single piece of artwork, a family photograph or a vase of fresh flowers would all complement this look.
Why is this style so appealing? First, it's easy to keep neat. There are no trinkets to dust and not much to shuffle around when you're cleaning. Second, a clutter-free home is calming and helps keep our stress levels low. Without so many things distracting the eye and the mind, we are better able to focus and decompress.
This style takes its roots from Japanese architecture, which in turn is heavily influenced by Buddhism and Zen principles. These principles are based on mindfulness, concentration and self-awareness, all of which are more easily achieved when we're not distracted by the mountain of stuff in our homes.
8. Designer Storage
Does anyone ever have enough storage space in their homes? As people accumulate more and more belongings, they're forever looking for ways to store them. The need for storage has helped develop the concept of storage as design element, where the systems not only keep our belongings organized, but do so in an attractive way. This is done through furniture and containers cleverly designed to maximize both form and function.
Closet organizers are one of the most widely used systems, with countless setups available including shelving, drawers and units designed to hold everything from scarves to snow boots. These storage systems are typically expanded and modified easily so that homeowners can update them as their needs change, or to accommodate that 25th pair of shoes.
Modular garage units are popular as well and allow total flexibility for those who want to organize their tools once and for all. These units consist of wall-hung panels with a selection of hooks and shelving that can be arranged to meet the homeowner's needs.
9. Vases
If you have a vase in your home, you're in very good company. Of all the accessories used in the home, vases have one of the longest histories. The earliest known vases date back to ancient Greece, where they were made mainly for practical uses like the storage of food, medicine, oils and water. Vases have been found dating from around 5000 B.C., and the pictures and carvings they depict present some of the best information we have about ancient Greek life.
The ancient Chinese also produced many vases that have survived to this day, including the exquisitely crafted Ming vase. Produced during the Ming Dynasty
(around 14th to 16th centuries A.D.), these vases were made of porcelain and elaborately painted, making them a highly coveted collector's item today.
Today, vases made from ceramic, crystal and glass are used to complement our home décor. They're popular as a vessel for displaying fresh or synthetic flowers but are also valued for their beauty and decorative aspects. Crystal vases also make great wedding or anniversary gifts.
10. Teapots
In so many homes the teapot is the first object reached for when either celebration or comfort are needed. At the first signs of heartbreak, illness, or a special occasion, the teapot is set onto the stovetop, and families bond over the rich aroma and taste that's both comforting and familiar.
Though tea has been enjoyed for thousands of years, the first teapots weren't introduced until the 1500s. The earliest incarnations, called Yixing teapots, originated in the Jiangsu province of China. They were made from a purple clay called zisha that is found only in this region. The zisha was unique in that it absorbed the flavor and scent of the tea it was used to brew. During this time, many Chinese citizens owned their own teapots and would drink directly from the spout.
The teapot design quickly spread across Asia to Europe, where afternoon tea has been a tradition for centuries.
Today's teapots come in many different varieties, from traditional porcelain to newer insulated models. They can be admired for their beauty and design, or used as a centerpiece. Many teapots are passed down through generations, bringing a touch of family history to the home's décor.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Spectacular Mirror Furniture Designs
Mirrors are not just decorating items but play a major role in home decor...
Article taken off hgtv.com
Spectacular Mirror Furniture Designs
All-Around Sparkle
This mirrored dining table catches the light of the chandelier above, which adds an extra sparkle to the room.
Spread the Sunshine
The mirror panels on this nightstand reflect the colors of the rug, carrying the color scheme throughout the room.
Elegant Appearance
Mirrored furniture dusted with the color gold creates an elegant, regal look in any room.
Rows of Tiny Mirrors
The rows of tiny mirrors reflect the light at different angles to create an abstract look.
Dream Big
Adding mirrored furniture to a small space, like Designer Erinn Valencich did here, creates the illusion of a bigger room.
Seeing Double
The mirrored tables accentuate the accessories and create a perfect backdrop for them.
Vain Vanity
This mirrored vanity adds a touch of glamour and youth to this fun girl's bedroom.
Entertaining Reflections
The tall mirrors on the entertainment center, custom designed by Troy Beasley, open up the living room space.
Article taken off hgtv.com
Spectacular Mirror Furniture Designs
All-Around Sparkle
This mirrored dining table catches the light of the chandelier above, which adds an extra sparkle to the room.
Spread the Sunshine
The mirror panels on this nightstand reflect the colors of the rug, carrying the color scheme throughout the room.
Elegant Appearance
Mirrored furniture dusted with the color gold creates an elegant, regal look in any room.
Rows of Tiny Mirrors
The rows of tiny mirrors reflect the light at different angles to create an abstract look.
Dream Big
Adding mirrored furniture to a small space, like Designer Erinn Valencich did here, creates the illusion of a bigger room.
Seeing Double
The mirrored tables accentuate the accessories and create a perfect backdrop for them.
Vain Vanity
This mirrored vanity adds a touch of glamour and youth to this fun girl's bedroom.
Entertaining Reflections
The tall mirrors on the entertainment center, custom designed by Troy Beasley, open up the living room space.
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