Bed headboard, 8 different possible choices

A defining element in the bedroom is the headboard because it somehow determines the style and mood of the whole room.

I have already covered the topic of the bedroom with tips on how to decorate it in general and how to decorate the bed wall in particular; today, I would like to focus on this detail, which can actually make a real difference!

Of course, there are bed frames that already feature a headboard, and honestly, you can really find all kinds and tastes of them.

But, if you are an imaginative person and want to customize the headboard to your liking, you can do so, just buy a sommier bed, that is, a bed that has only the base!

Let’s now see some types of headboards to choose from!

1 – WOODEN

Wood is a versatile and, if desired, low-cost material for a headboard.

The easiest solution is to use wooden planks vertically or horizontally!

(credit: shop8.onlinestoresoutlet.ru; colorsandcraft.com)

You can use bamboo rods or thin logs, or even, you can use pellet pallets.

With pallets, you could also create side niches using their thickness.

(credit: booking residence-capraggia.de; shop04004.shadrychant.com)

In all cases, you can leave the wood raw, pickle it for a shabby style, or stain it with the colors you have chosen as a palette.

You could also make a low boiserie that takes the length of the wall, or even, for an original idea, you could think of using one or two old doors!

(credit: mondadori editore; var-dags-rum)

2 – PADDED

You can find pre-made ones on the market, you can have it made by an upholsterer, but if you want to, you could make it yourself by creating something really unique!

All you need to do on your own is a wooden panel, some foam, and the fabric you like.

You can make it smooth for a more modern room, but if you have craftsmanship, you can also do some work like the quilted effect for a classic bed!

(credit: Holms Homes; overstock)

It must be well-padded for a more elegant and refined effect.

You can choose a headboard in fabric, velvet, as well as leather, or faux leather for a more impactful effect!

There are also modular panels and modules on the market for a unique and original bed headboard!

If you like, you could even cover the whole wall with these modular modules!

(credit: archiproduct.com; Alessandra Fedorova)

3 – WITH CUSHIONS

If a fully padded headboard seems too much, but you like the idea of something soft, you might want to think about hanging pillows!

They will be cushions (two separate ones or a single one doesn’t matter) with large loops to be stuffed into a rod and hung on the wall!

The rod can be a simple curtain pole and can be of wood or metal: the important thing is that it is at least as long as the bed.

(credit: @sarahmontgomerydesign; drom living)

4 – WROUGHT IRON

It is not mandatory to have the entire wrought iron structure: you can only have the headboard!

Here too, there is plenty of choices, from simple and linear headboards to very elaborate ones.

You can also have a padded wrought iron headboard or attach cushions to it, to maintain the charm of the iron as well as the comfort of the padding!

(credit: cosatto; aliexpress)

5 – MASONRY

It is possible to create a small counter-wall, in masonry or plasterboard, which can be as long as the wall, or just a little wider than the bed, at the desired height.

In this counter wall, you can make niches that can act as bedside tables.

If this wall is high enough, you could think of a long niche at the top.

(credit: Jover Construcciones; @vevamall)

Finally, the thickness of this wall will serve as a shelf to rest what you prefer, from decorative objects to lamps!

Of course, these niches can also be illuminated, thus creating a bit of play and atmosphere.

(credit: estudiomatmata.es; Ons Haarlemse Huisje)

6 – WITH FURNITURE

Do you like the idea I gave you before but don’t want to do the masonry work? You can use a piece of furniture!

It can be a low, perhaps modular bookcase: you would always have the top shelf and space to use as a nightstand, actually freeing up space near the bed.

(credit: iStock; uoifa.com)

7 – DRAWN

Why not draw it? Nowhere is it written that the headboard must be something physical!

If you are an original person, you can draw a headboard of the shape and size you want: using stickers or washi tape.

(credit: clemaroundthecorner.com; audreysjl)

This solution would allow you to change the headboard whenever you want, just detach the tape and create a new one.

You can use the stencil and, again, give your headboard the shape you want or just use color blocking!

(credit: Sarah Cooper; historiasdecasa.com.br)

8 – WITH TILES

That is not a solution you often see, but you can also make the headboard of your bed with ceramic tiles or porcelain stoneware, the same used for the coatings of bathrooms and kitchens.

Like the masonry option, this is a more “invasive” and, I dare say, definitive solution, but also of considerable scenographic impact.

The modularity and various tile sizes allow you to create a wide variety of wall designs.

Here you can really give space to your imagination!

A not insignificant advantage of this solution is that it is really easy to clean, thus being very hygienic!

(credit: beriestain.com; Patchwork Harmony)

Which of these ideas did you like the most? Let me know in the comments!!!

Whichever type of headboard you choose, remember that for a regal and distinctive look of the bed and the room in general, the headboard will have to be huge!

I hope this article was helpful and you enjoyed it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share the article with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored and it will help me get my name out there.

And if you need advice for your home, do not hesitate to contact me!

/0 Comments/by

12 tips to make your living room more luxurious

Who doesn’t love the idea of having a luxurious and sophisticated living room?

But is it necessary to spend crazy amounts of money to have such a living room?

No! It is not mandatory: some tips and tricks will help to achieve great results without having to “splurge”!

Let’s see them together

1 – COLORS: START FROM A NEUTRAL BASE

Luxurious environments, regardless of style, have in common that they use neutral colors, at least as a base.

Neutrals make spaces relaxing, elegant, and sophisticated, and because of their versatility, they match any style!

Use neutrals for walls, floors, and larger furnishings, then give them a pop of color with smaller furnishings and decorations!

I remember that when I talk about neutrals, I am not just talking about white, gray, and beige, but any color to which a lot of white (to get a light neutral) or a lot of black (for a dark neutral) is added.

Adding white or black to the color will allow color lovers to not give it up!

The neutrals thus obtained will lose their exciting component but will maintain the mood of that color that will still remain in the background.

If you want to learn more about neutral colors, I describe them in detail here!

(credits: rh.com; interiorbutikker.no)

2 – BOISERIE AND MOLDINGS

Moldings on the walls help give some movement and depth to the room, especially when you have neutral-colored walls.

They also provide textures and warmth, make the room more “rich”, and create visual interest.

Simple and linear moldings go very well with modern or contemporary styles but also with the minimalist one.

The slightly more elaborate ones will go better with the classic style!

You can use low paneling, about a meter high, this has a high visual impact giving importance to the room, especially if colored differently from the wall.

If you make this paneling a little overhanging, you can use this shelf to put decorative objects or frames on it!

Alternatively, but also in addition, you can use full-wall moldings to create frames that will give a very stylish and sophisticated effect.

It is better, in this case, to keep the same color between the wall and the boiserie.

(credits: Sergey Krasyuk; leroymerlin.fr)

– CREATE A FOCAL POINT

The focal point is an essential element in interior design: it catches the eye by creating visual interest!

It is always relevant, but it becomes even more so when you want to make your environments sophisticated and luxurious!

In the living room, the focal point can be the sofa wall or, if well-designed, the TV wall!

For the lucky ones, of course, it could be a beautiful fireplace or a window with a stunning view.

It must be something that “dominates” the rest of the room and around which everything else revolves.

You can use a different wall color to make what is placed next to it stand out.

You could also use a particular wallpaper, a large mirror, or an important painting.

The focal point doesn’t need to be the wall; it could be the sofa itself or a piece of furniture perhaps of particular value (not necessarily economic value!)

(credits: Shiri Ganesh Home Solutions; Etsy- ArttideArt)

4 – CONTRASTING SEAT

Buying coordinated furniture, we have seen it before, is a “mistake” that people often make, for fear of making a wrong…

So people often buy the sofa-armchair set and, in fact, miss out on great opportunities.

For a more luxurious, sophisticated, and studied living room, it is a good thing to have one or two seats contrasting with the sofa.

Different shapes, textures, and colors will break the monotony and make the environment even more interesting, giving it character.

If the seat is totally different from the sofa, “justify” it by picking up the color in the covers of the decorative pillows: this will harmonize the whole thing!

(credits: article.com; textureliving.com)

5 – MIRRORS (AND PICTURES)

Mirrors amplify space and natural light, making the environment more refined, elegant, and luxurious.

Ideally, put them near a window to amplify the light as much as possible; however, be careful what it reflects, that it is a tidy area, or you will duplicate the clutter!

Dare with even oversized mirrors resting on the floor: you’ll give an extra touch of character; by doing so, the mirror could become the focal point of the living room!

That also applies to paintings: compositions of several small-medium-sized paintings are all right, but if you want something to make the living room look more luxurious and sophisticated, then dare with large ones!

They have a higher visual impact and make the environment less stuffy, more linear, and clean!

(credits: living-corriere; Meridiani living)

6 – CURTAINS

Curtains, in general, dress a home by bringing warmth, texture, and color.

They become significant when you want to add a touch of elegance and luxury to your living room.

They don’t have to be super expensive because it’s their scenic effect that changes the perception of the environment!

The best choice, in this case, is drapery curtains, perhaps a double curtain, with a filter curtain and a blackout curtain always open at the sides.

The double curtain brings a bit of contrast and color, making the living room even more elegant and luxurious.

For a perfect result, the rod should be as close to the ceiling as possible to enhance the heights and give more breathing space to the window.

When ceilings are really very high, the rod should still be placed at least 15-20 cm above the window.

It is also important that the stick is wider than the window by at least 10 cm on each side so that the curtain, when open, does not block the passage of light.

The curtain then can rest lightly on the ground or barely touch it; short curtains shrink the room and look “unfinished”!

(credits: pinimg.com; Tom Stringer)

7 – RUGS

I know this point is controversial because many people do not like rugs, yet, in the living room, it is an essential element to make it elegant and sophisticated.

The rug brings warmth and texture, but most importantly, it ties the elements together!

A large rug that encloses the sofa, seats, and coffee and side tables will create a conversation area, a more intimate and welcoming environment.

I’m talking about rugs here!

(credits: theblushhome.com; @homepolish)

8 – PILLOWS

Dressing the sofa with some decorative pillow (and maybe a blanket) is extraordinary for a luxurious living room!

The pillows, such as the curtains and the rug, bring texture and color, and this creates rhythm and contrast.

It is important to alternate between large patterns, solid colors, smaller patterns, and even geometric designs (I’m talking about how to mix patterns here).

Also, use different textures by alternating smoother fabrics with rougher and more worked ones; this tip will make the sofa look more sophisticated and elegant.

A little trick for pretty puffy pillows: get the inside of a material that can be easily “molded” like down and then always take it a little larger than the lining (example: 45×45 pillow with 40×40 lining).

(credits: studio mcgee; french.alibaba.com)

9 – LIGHTS

Artificial lighting will play a significant role in the final result!

First of all, there must be good general light for visual comfort, but ambient and task lights (perhaps near the sofa for reading) should still be added to the general one.

Having multiple types of light helps create contrast and depth.

Where possible, use dimmable lights to manage the intensity of the light as needed!

Then, in choosing lights, be daring, as with mirrors and pictures: get large, distinctive chandeliers or floor lamps that immediately grab attention!

(credits: nomadbubbles.com; Bronxes Studio)

10 – SEARCH FOR PARTICULAR ITEMS

When looking for decorative accessories, avoid ordinary objects; instead, search for unique and out-of-the-ordinary items.

For example, look for vases and candle holders with unusual shapes and finishes.

Buy also trays and create inside your compositions: giving it a sort of border, you will set it more importance.

Remember to create compositions with an odd number of objects, which have different heights and sizes, and distinct colors and finishes.

Another trick that gives a touch of sophistication and luxury is to use, here and there, the principle of symmetry; for example, on the sideboard, you could put two equal lamps on the sides and a beautiful central painting.

It is not to be done constantly and at all costs: on the contrary, it would become boring, but the principle of symmetry immediately gives the impression of something sophisticated!

(credits: etsy.com; east.co.uk)

(credits:pinimg.com;sarahshermansamuel.com)

11 – PLANTS, FLOWERS, BRANCHES, AND ESSENCES

Plants bring a touch of nature into the house, and this is really very important; they also purify the air and elevate the perception of the environment!

They immediately give that touch of elegance and sophistication!

Fresh flowers are also great, but for a more low-cost elegant effect, you can also decorate with branches!

Even these bring movement and freshness with simplicity!

The perception of spaces is not only visual but also concerns what we feel with touch and smell.

The scents of fresh flowers immediately elevate the perception of the environment, but of course, you can also help yourself with candles and diffusers.

Perfumes do not have to be aggressive, it goes without saying, but adding them in the living room will immediately make it more refined and luxurious.

(credits: @homepolish; tileclub.com)

12 – ORDER!

It seems obvious, but clutter is the exact opposite of luxury, even the visual one: a living room too full of things is not good.

We need to embrace a little more of the rules of minimalism, including “less is more”!

Then use storage furnishing to store things that are too much!

Poufs, coffee tables, benches, or baskets are excellent allies for this purpose.

(credits: coffeetableonline.com; wallmart.ca)

I hope this article was helpful and you loved it; in case, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I will be honored, and it will help me get my name out there.

If you feel that your bedroom, or some other room in the house, does not reflect you enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultation, all you need to do is contact me!
/0 Comments/by

Furnishing a small house? the 5 common mistakes to avoid!

,

Furnishing a small house is actually a challenge, but it can be done with a little bit of cleverness and attention.

There are at least five general common mistakes made when furnishing a small house, and I’d like to discuss them in this article, giving you some tips and tricks to avoid or fix them!

Ready? Let’s see them together:

1 – DARK AND HEAVY FURNITURE

One of the most common mistakes is using heavy and dark furniture.

Furniture with substantial, solid structures and dark colors visually shrinks the spaces, making them feel a bit suffocating!

It’s better to avoid them by opting for furniture with light profiles, such as chairs and tables with thin legs.

Try to choose furnishing elements through which you can see the structure; this is a trick to deceive the mind: if you can see the space beyond a piece of furniture or an accessory, it will seem like the environment is larger!

Additionally, lighter furnishings will make the environment feel more airy, elegant, and, therefore, more pleasant!

So, NO to bulky, heavy, and dark furniture, and YES to ones with light, open, and bright structures!

(credits: moebel.ladendirekt.de; lago.it)

(credits: Room & Board; hackrea.com)

2 – SMALL RUGS

Another general common mistake is opting for a small rug; this never works well, not even in a large house, but it becomes detrimental in a small one.

A small rug will give the impression of a smaller space because it creates boundaries.

That will cause the mind to be somehow drawn to those boundaries, separating the part of the rug from everything else.

The rug should be large enough to enclose, contain the furnishings, or at least be under the front legs of the furniture.

That will show fewer edges of the rug and, consequently, fewer boundaries!

So, NO to small rugs (it’s better not to have them at all); YES to large rugs that go under the furniture!

(credits: rugsusa.com; Margaret Boatner)

3 – DIFFERENT AND CONTRASTING FLOORING

Having different floors with strongly contrasting colors is another classic mistake.

Contrast is a fundamental element in interior design, but it must be used wisely!

Different and contrasting floors are great when you need to visually divide an ample space containing two functionalities, such, for example, as an open-plan area with a kitchen and living room.

But in a small space, it’s somewhat similar to the principle we just discussed with rugs: different floors with different and contrasting colors create boundaries and visually shrink the space.

When space is limited, uniformity is crucial, so if you want to use two different floors, choose ones with the same tone.

The transition from one floor to another will be subtle, making the various zones feel like a single, larger space!

For this reason, where there are rugs, it would be ideal for them, besides being large, to have the same tones as the floor.

You’ll notice the different textures, but you won’t see barriers that sharply divide the space into diverse areas!

So, NO to great contrasts on floors, YES to uniformity; it’s okay to change textures, but try to maintain the same tones as much as possible!

(credits: progressprofiles.com; materiesuperficiarredo.it)

4 – FAILURE TO PLAN THE SPACE

Not planning the spaces when furnishing is a common mistake, but it becomes particularly noticeable when space is limited!

It’s crucial to make, in small environments, the most of the space according to your lifestyle.

So, every time you want to buy something, ask yourself:

– How do you use that space?

– Who lives there?

– What are your real needs?

That is essential to buy only what is necessary to make your spaces functional and efficient.

Let me give you an example: if two people live in a small house, there’s no need to get a 3-seater sofa or a sectional; a comfortable 2-seater sofa will suffice, along with maybe some extra seating that can be used near the table when you have guests!

Of course, you’ll need to ensure that all elements harmonize with each other for stunning spaces!

Multifunctional elements are essential for furnishing a small house:

– As in the previous example, a seating option that can serve as a relaxation spot near the sofa but also be used as a chair near the dining table when needed.

– A coffee table that transforms into a dining table;

– A pouf that doubles as a coffee table or storage unit;

These elements allow you to need fewer items and have more free space!

So, NO to furniture chosen just because you like it, YES to planning the spaces according to your needs.

(credits: ;instagram.comp60U_nKM-AFtaken-by=jackieruedaphotography)

5 – USING ONLY FLOOR SPACE

Yet another common mistake is using only the floor area, but the space is three-dimensional, and in small environments, we really need to take advantage of every available surface.

So, walls, but also ceilings where possible!

Think vertically, perhaps with shelves or wall-mounted furniture as storage space; in the kitchen, you could consider attaching a fold-down table instead of a traditional one.

Use wall lights instead of floor lamps: you’ll properly illuminate while leaving more floor space.

Of course, pendant lights, but you can also consider hanging a seat from the ceiling or lowering it to create additional storage space if the height allows it!

Even plants, instead of placing them on the floor, you could consider hanging them.

Thinking vertically will allow you to have everything you like and desire in your home without cluttering the floor and enabling better use of space.

You’ll thus have a functional home for your lifestyle, but also beautiful and, above all, comfortable!

So, NO to everything resting on the floor, YES to unleashing your creativity by making the most of every available surface!

(credit: carousell.sgpbohemian; elle.se Johanna-bradford)

I hope this article about furnishing a small house has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

If you’d like, here are some more small tricks to make the most out of living in a small apartment!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

/0 Comments/by

Three steps to create a color palette that represents you

,

How to create a color palette for your home?

The topic of color is absolutely fascinating and quite beloved.

I often get questions about which colors to choose for your homes!

Knowing how to choose and manage colors isn’t easy, but it’s vital for creating harmonious environments that truly represent us.

Designing and choosing the colors and materials that will be present in your home is truly important to ensure that the various spaces communicate with each other in a coherent and balanced manner.

The color palette is really one of the first things to start with!

As we now know, colors create mood and evoke sensations and emotions, so choosing them carefully and consciously is paramount!

Therefore, let’s see the fundamental steps to create a color palette that suits you, your tastes, and your style!

– CONSIDER THE FUNCTION OF THE ROOM AND COLOR PSYCHOLOGY

Different colors evoke diverse sensations, such as excitement, relaxation, introspection, mystery, passion, etc. (I talk about the color psychology here)

Color can transform a space:

– making it seem warmer or cooler.

– visually expanding the room.

– enhancing the sense of well-being.

– brightening up the space.

Color is indeed the fundamental tool for creating the right atmosphere!

(different colors different atmosphere! Credits: mooielight.com; Sean Litchfield)

To choose a color, you need to ask yourself a few questions:

– What is the function and purpose of that room?

– What emotions do you want to experience in that space?

– Which color can help you achieve this goal?

The answers to these questions will help you find the right color!

This color will impact sensations and behavior, making the space functional and suitable for the specific activities of that environment.

PAY ATTENTION ALSO TO THIS…

There are other, somewhat more technical aspects to consider:

– Where is the room located?

– How many windows are there, and how are they oriented?

– Is there anything that could alter the perception of color in any way?

These questions give an idea of the room’s conditions and further aid in color selection (or at least in determining its brightness and saturation!).

Let me give you an example: if a room doesn’t receive direct light, it’s better to use light colors to bring the space more breathing room and allow the indirect light to reflect more.

That will still enable you to make natural light more efficient, as it reflects better on lighter colors!

– CHOOSE NEUTRAL COLORS

Neutral colors are essential in a color palette because they serve as a backdrop and can enhance various furniture elements.

Walls painted in neutral colors open up numerous opportunities; they allow us to incorporate furniture pieces with stronger colors without overwhelming the space.

When selecting the right neutral, the first thing to do is to determine whether to choose warm or cool neutrals.

(Warm or cool neutral give a different result! Credits: cocolapinedesign.com; H&M)

Opt for those that best represent your personality and style and complement the other colors in the palette and furnishings.

Choosing a warm or cool neutral may not be simple due to its undertone.

For example, you might choose a white color, but once the wall is painted, it may appear slightly yellowish or bluish.

That occurs due to the undertone.

Except for pure neutrals like white, black, and gray, all others are obtained by combining two complementary colors or adding a pure neutral to one color.

That results in a white, for instance, appearing pure, but ultimately, due to its undertone, it may indeed have a slight yellowish or bluish tint.

I discuss this aspect of neutrals in more detail here!

– CHOOSE AN ACCENT COLOR

Accent colors are crucial for creating movement and contrast and emphasizing significant elements of the environment.

Choosing neutral colors will facilitate the choice of an accent color, which doesn’t necessarily have to be vibrant but should contrast with the other colors.

To better understand, if you had a home with a palette of soft neutral colors and added a bit of dark gray or black, that would still be considered an accent color because the contrast between light neutrals and dark gray or black is high.

(Credits: leclairdecor.com)

If, however, you want to add a touch of a “real” color, the questions we asked at the beginning will be helpful.

For example, green could be the right solution if you have a living room where you want to convey a sense of calm, relaxation, and freshness!

(Credits H&M)

If you decide to have more than one accent color, you need to know how to pair them, and for this, it’s essential to understand color theory and use the color wheel!

How??? Well, I explain it here.

LOOK AT THIS

There’s a small detail to pay attention to when choosing one or more accent colors: it should be accurately distributed throughout the space.

Let me explain further: suppose you choose the color green; you should use it, for example, on a seating piece, in fabrics like cushions, rugs, curtains, objects, and artworks.

You can even paint a wall or a portion of it if you like!

(Credit: interior by @interiors_dd)

In short, it shouldn’t be a single point of color that otherwise would seem randomly placed!

Doing this will help you create rhythm, one of the six basic concepts of interior design (I discuss it here), and make everything cohesive and harmonious.

That’s good: now you’re ready to create your color palette and bring it into your home!

– 3 SMALL CONSIDERATIONS

To avoid massive upheavals when using colors that you like on paper, follow these three little cautions:

  • Start with one wall or room:

You never know, so begin with a small portion to be sure you like the colors!

  • Test the shades:

unfortunately, a color swatch is NOT enough to understand how a particular color looks in your home, nor is seeing it in the store.

Where possible, get small samples and try them on the walls.

You’ll also see how they adapt to your spaces and the natural and artificial light you have.

Light can change the perception of colors.

  • Choose where to use the color:

It’s not a trivial choice; light colors enlarge, while dark ones shrink, so using color in one place rather than another can change the perception of spaces!

If you use different colors in various rooms, consider how they communicate with each other; if you can see the dining room from the kitchen and decide to use two different colors, make sure they harmonize.

(Credits: Sherwin Williams)

My suggestion is to use a single palette for the entire house, with the only exception being children’s rooms, and if necessary, use more than one color in one room and another in another.

That creates harmony and cohesion.

I hope this article about bedroom color combinations has been helpful and enjoyable for you.

If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

/0 Comments/by

How to choose neutral colors for home: 4 basic concepts

,

How to choose neutral colors for home environments?

Neutral colors are widely used in interior design because of their versatility, providing a perfect backdrop for furnishings and architectural forms.

They help infuse elegance into spaces and evoke a sense of calm.

However, it’s easy to say ‘neutral colors,’ yet there are important factors to understand and consider when choosing the right color for your home.

Let’s explore them together.

WHAT ARE NEUTRALS?

Firstly, it’s essential to understand what colors we define as neutrals! Essentially, neutrals are colors that lack a high chromatic intensity; they have low brightness and saturation.

Neutrals fall into two categories:

– pure neutrals, which are white, gray, and black.

– near neutrals, achieved by mixing a color with a pure neutral or blending two complementary colors.

For example, if you take a blue and add white, at a certain point, it will lose saturation until it becomes almost white, with a hint of blue undertone!

That created white effectively becomes a neutral color but differs from pure neutrals due to its undertone.

1 – PAY ATTENTION TO THE UNDERTONE

The undertone is what sets near neutrals apart and is the reason why choosing them isn’t as straightforward.

It’s also why the result on the wall often differs from what we expected.

Due to this undertone, neutrals, even if they appear colorless, actually have them:

A white, for instance, unless it is a pure one, could have a slightly yellow or blue undertone.

That changes the perception of the space; a white with a yellow undertone will feel warmer than one with a blue undertone!

So, it becomes crucial to identify their undertone to be able to choose the right neutral colors!

Recognizing this elusive undertone isn’t immediate, but there’s a trick to uncover it: comparing the near-neutral with a pure neutral.

Essentially, you should place the color sample on a sheet of pure neutral paper, and the undertone will become immediately straightforward!

If you take a white by itself, it might seem just white, but when compared to pure white, you’ll immediately notice the undertone it tends toward!

The same applies to grays and blacks!

2 – WARM AND COLD NEUTRALS

Due to their undertones, near neutrals are further divided into warm and cold neutrals.

Warm and cold when choosing a neutral color are another crucial element to consider!

Knowing the undertone of a particular neutral makes it easy to position it on the color wheel and understand if it falls in the half of cold or warm colors.

From this, it’s evident that neutrals with blue, purple, and green undertones will be cold, while those with red, yellow, and orange undertones will be warm.

fotooooooooooooo

Choosing the correct “temperature” of neutral is paramount because it serves as the background and foundation for your spaces, style, and the emotions you want to evoke.

It’s also the starting point for creating your color palette.

Colors need to harmonize with each other to create cohesive and unified environments.

So, by knowing the undertone of the neutral you choose, then you can pair it with other colors following one of the six ways to combine colors on the color wheel (discussed here).

3 – PAY ATTENTION TO LIGHT:

The type of light in a room is a crucial element because it alters our perception of colors.

Direct natural light differs from indirect natural light and, of course, artificial light.

Artificial light, as we’ve seen on other occasions, changes depending on the color temperature of the bulbs, which can be warm, neutral, or cold.

For instance, a wall painted in pure white may appear slightly yellow with warm light and blue with a cold one!

To maintain the perception of the actual colors, it’s ideal for the ambient light, the general one, to be neutral (more on color temperature and lighting here).

For these reasons, it’s advisable to conduct tests and paint a portion of all the walls, observing their appearance throughout the day with both light, natural and artificial.

Also, look out for the various elements in the room and how they reflect light because this reflection will also change the color perception.

4 – STYLE AND ATMOSPHERE

Knowing what style and atmosphere you want to create in a specific environment is another crucial element in choosing the right neutral color for you.

Warm neutrals are generally the right choice if you want to give an inviting, cozy, and comfortable feel.

(credits H&M HOME)

Cold neutrals are more suitable if you prefer something more sophisticated and relaxed.

(credits cocolapinedesign.com)

For a minimalist style, pure neutrals are ideal.

(credits rikreainteriors.it)

In recap, when choosing a neutral color, you need to:

– decide whether to go for pure neutrals or near neutrals.

– if you choose near neutrals, understand their undertone.

– choose between warm and cold neutrals to best match them with the color wheel and the rules of color theory.

– finally, pay attention to the light and how it may alter the perception of colors.

I hope this article has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

/0 Comments/by

The measures that matter in furnishing

Do you have all the measures that really matter in furnishing for harmonious and proportionate spaces?

When it’s time to furnish, we usually take measurements of the room to see which furniture pieces we can place in that space.

We measure width, depth, height, and, of course, the encumbrances such as windows and doors, radiators, and other architectural details like niches and corners if they exist.

All perfect!

That is necessary to buy furniture proportionate to the surrounding environment: furniture that is too large will overwhelm the room, while items that are too small may get lost.

However, there are other really specific measures to consider in furnishing for harmonious, proportionate, and functional spaces!

Let’s explore them together.

DISTANCE BETWEEN SOFA AND COFFEE TABLE

That is a measurement you do not often hear about, but the coffee table should be positioned at a distance ranging from 40 to 50 cm from the seating of your sofa.

distanza tra tavolino e divano

(pinterest)

The reason for such a precise measurement is that the table should be far enough away to allow for a comfortable and easy passage, leaving adequate space for your legs when sitting.

At the same time, it should be close enough that you can comfortably place a glass or anything else on it!

After all, that’s its purpose!

SEATING HEIGHT OF THE SOFA AND COFFEE TABLE

This measure is not often discussed in furnishing, but it’s paramount that the coffee table has the same height as the sofa or is even 2 to 5 cm lower.

altezza tavolino seduta divano

(pinterest)

If it must be higher, it should not exceed 2 cm.

The reason it should be at the same height or slightly lower is to facilitate the action of placing things on top.

DISTANCE BETWEEN TABLE AND CHANDELIER

That measurement is discussed more often in furnishing, but probably not enough, as the tendency is to hang chandeliers too high!

The measurement that the bottom of the chandelier should have from the table is between 70 and 90 cm.

distanza lampadario da tavolo o isola

(Credits: clippings.com; Amazon; zephyrandstone.com.au; trendland.com)

That allows for punctual light on the table without diners being dazzled, and at the same time, they can see each other’s faces.

This distance is also applicable to any chandeliers hanging above a kitchen island.

THE HEIGHT OF THE ARTWORK

Correctly hanging artwork is crucial, but here, as with chandeliers, there’s a tendency to put them too high!

The correct height to hang a painting should be 145 to 170 cm from the floor for optimal viewing.

That is the average eye level for people.

A clarification: this measurement is to take from the floor to the CENTER of the artwork.

What if, instead of a single painting, you have a composition?

The rule remains the same: only that, instead of taking the center of a single painting, you’ll take the center of the entire composition (imagine enclosing all the pieces in a large rectangle, and you’re good to go!).

(credits: etsy.com; The DIY Playbook)

THE HEIGHT OF ARTWORK RELATIVE TO THE SOFA OR BED HEADBOARD

That is another measurement to consider for a pleasant and harmonious environment.

Here, too, there’s a tendency to hang artwork too high.

The correct distance of the frame should be 10-15 cm from the back of the sofa or the bed headboard.

(credits: posterstore.it; desenio.it)

A closer distance would be too intrusive and create confusion, while a greater distance would make it seem out of place.

Also, ensure that the overall height from the center of the artwork remains in the range of 145-170 cm, but if you choose artwork proportional to the sofa, there should be no issues.

DISTANCE BETWEEN ARTWORK IN A GALLERY ARRANGEMENT

In addition to positioning the entire composition at the right height, you’ll also need to pay attention to the distance between the various pieces if you create a beautiful gallery with your paintings or photographs.

This distance should be approximately 5 cm.

That allows a little breathing space between the various pieces while ensuring they don’t appear randomly placed but instead form a cohesive group.


(credits: etsy.com; posterstore.it)

DISTANCE OF THE TABLE FROM THE WALL

Again, attention is required because this measurement can help you choose the right table!

The table should be positioned at a distance of 90 to 120 cm.

In this case, the minimum measurement is crucial, and you should absolutely not go below it.

That allows people to get to their seats and settle in comfortably.

The comfort of accessing the seats is essential, so it’s better to have a slightly smaller table, but do not go below 90 cm.

If 90 cm is really tight, and perhaps you’re forced to have only 75/80 cm, it’s better to opt for a round table; its shape will simplify passage!

(credits: kitesgrove.com; pinterest)

If there’s a piece of furniture, you should increase this distance to allow easy access for everyone without too much inconvenience.

THE CURTAINS

I’ve mentioned this here, but as the Latins used to say, “repetita iuvant” (repeated things help), so I’ll remind you.

Unless they are glass panels, curtains should be hung just below the ceiling and touch the floor (where there isn’t much traffic, you can also let them rest slightly).

Moreover, they should cover not only the window but also a portion of the wall, at least 15/20 cm on each side!

(credits: PianetaDesign.it; tau.com)

JUXTAPOSING TWO ELEMENTS TOGETHER AND THE RULE OF 2/3

That isn’t a specific measurement but a suggestion to achieve a balanced and proportionate decor: the rule of 2/3!

Let me explain how it works:

If you have a console or a sofa and want to hang a painting above it, its width should be 2/3 of the sofa or console.

The same goes for the coffee table concerning the sofa (in this case, there’s also the functional factor – the couch remains easily accessible!).

(credits: zdesignathome.com; serenaandlily.com)

With this rule, the elements become proportionate and balanced with each other.

Proportion between elements is crucial in furnishing because, otherwise, one item might seem out of place!

It’s one of the six basic concepts of interior design, which I discuss here!

So, these are the measures that matter in furnishing to achieve truly harmonious environments!

 

I hope this article has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

/0 Comments/by

How to furnish a kids’ room? Here are 10 tips

,

Today, by request, I’m addressing those who have children and, therefore, need to know how to furnish a kids’ room…

Designing a space for children and/or teenagers requires special attention: you need to create an environment that is functional, safe, and comfortable but also capable of evolving with them over time.

At each stage of a child’s or teenager’s development, there are specific needs that you should consider when furnishing their room.

– THINK AHEAD

To avoid completely redoing the room every so often, consider purchasing some elements from the beginning with their future needs in mind.

For example, the wardrobe—while there are many delightful baby and children’s furniture options, after a few years, you’ll have to replace them.

The changing table, which is essential in the beginning, could actually be a beautiful dresser with just the changing pad on top.

The changing pad may disappear, but the dresser will remain.

To create a child’s room atmosphere that can easily transition into a teenager’s space, use colors, textiles, and decorations.

These elements have a less significant financial impact when they need to be updated.

(credits: stylefurnituremalta.com; Dasha Dmitrieva)

– START WITH THE BIG ITEMS

It might sound trivial to you, but the risk is not achieving a functional room otherwise: bed, wardrobe, and desk are the three essentials in a kids’ room, and everything else follows from there.

Of course, the desk will come later, and the bed will need to be replaced initially with a crib, but you should have a clear idea of how and where to place these three items.

Once you’ve established the optimal placement for these three items, you can decide whether to add more, like a bookshelf, a pouf, or a chair…

(credits: stylefurnituremalta.com; addamoebel.de)

– DIVIDE INTO ZONES

There are 4 zones to consider: sleep, play, study, and storage.

Kids tend to use everything as a play area, so if you don’t visually separate the zones, the risk is that the entire room becomes chaotic.

Bookshelves and storage should be placed near the desk and ideally away from the bed.

In smaller rooms where physical separation into zones is challenging, you’ll need to utilize the walls and multifunctional or fold-away furniture.

(credits: arentpyke.com; sneakerschampion.top)

In previous articles, I’ve often mentioned that furniture doesn’t need to be against the walls, but children’s and teenagers’ rooms are the exception.

It’s a great idea to leave them plenty of free space.

– INCORPORATE THEIR PASSIONS

Encourage your children to pursue hobbies and passions and use them to decorate their rooms.

Of course, avoid creating a room entirely based on a single theme because if their interests change, you’d have to redo everything. However, having a wall or a dedicated corner for that specific hobby or passion can be a unique addition.

The room will reflect your child’s personality and make them feel frankly represented.

(credits: Franklin Pérez; Capturing Joy with Kristen Duke)

– DON’T OVERDO IT WITH COLORS

Rooms with walls, furniture, and accessories in overly bright colors are unsuitable.

Too much can be overwhelming, and there’s a risk that they may come to dislike a color as they grow up because they are sick of being surrounded by it!

So, it’s GOOD to have color, but perhaps in softer tones on walls and large furniture, and then brighter in accessories and decorations!

(credits: stylesatlife.com; vivense.com)

– COLORED WALLS

I mentioned not to overdo the color earlier, but that doesn’t mean keeping all the walls white!

That would be a waste and a bit impersonal!

It’s acceptable ONLY if there are many colorful furnishings and decorations.

However, as mentioned before, I advise against this.

It’s better to use softer colors even for the furniture!

(credits: repubblica.it; ruangdekorasi.com)

You can also use wallpaper, looking for one with colors and patterns that help create the atmosphere you want for the room.

You can even do something unusual by putting wallpaper on the ceiling instead of the walls!

(credits: Cristina Peralta; purejoyhome.com)

Of course, if your child is already older, you can share with them what feelings they want to experience in their room and what represents them the most.

But since the tastes of children and teenagers change quickly, be careful not to overdo the patterns, or you’ll find yourself redoing the walls frequently!

– CHOOSE MATERIALS WISELY

For furniture you plan to use for a longer time, such as the wardrobe or the bed, it’s important to choose durable materials.

Of course, avoid fragile materials, especially when they are younger!

When I talk about materials, I also mean the floors because, believe me, they’ll be on the floor quite often, especially when they are babies, but even after that.

Avoid marble or overly smooth surfaces: they can be slippery besides being cold!

Wood would be ideal because it’s a warm material. But if you prefer tiles, remember to put on a nice rug!

(credits: diotti.com; brandanidecore.com)

But even for the rug, BE CAREFUL that they are resistant and easy to clean!

– CURTAINS

Even in children’s and teenagers’ rooms, light and privacy control are essential, so curtains are necessary!

Moreover, when kids are younger, it’s essential to darken the room well so they can rest better.

For this reason, you can use double curtains: a light, semi-transparent drape and a darkening, colorful one.

The light curtain can be in drapery style for a more classic and romantic room or in a panel (or glass panel) for a more modern and contemporary one (here I talk about how to choose curtains).

The darkening colorful curtain should be chosen to match the room’s colors and mood, of course.

(credits: mydomaine.com; oceanhomemag.com)

– LIGHT IT UP PROPERLY

We know lighting is super important everywhere, and it’s no different in a children’s or teenagers’ room.

One should plan for general room lighting and specific lighting for each activity:

– a floor lamp for playtime;

– one desk lamp for the study area (which should be positioned to make the most of natural light);

– a bedside lamp.

Instead of the classic table lamps that kids might accidentally knock over, you can consider using wall-mounted lights!

There are various types available, and they can add a lively touch to the room!

(credits: sigmamasterpiece.com; stylefurnituremalta.com)

– SEPARATE  FROM THE REST OF THE HOUSE

I’ve always said that there should be a common theme in every room in the house, such as color or style, but the kids’ room can be an exception!

The room is theirs and should represent them.

So, don’t impose your taste or style on them!

At the same time, you can’t accommodate every single request they have, as mentioned earlier, their ideas change quickly, and you’d find yourself constantly redecorating.

So, compromise on their requests for colors and major furnishings and let them get creative with minor elements like textiles.

(credits: amazon.com; houseandhome.com)

I hope you found this article helpful and enjoyable. If you did, please let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested; I would be honored, and it will help me get noticed.

If you feel that your home or any part of it doesn’t reflect you enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

/0 Comments/by

How to furnish the basement room? here are 5 ways + 1!

,

Do you have the luxury of having a basement? If you have doubts about how to furnish this space, this article might be just for you!

The basement is an absolutely fascinating space.

Not everyone is lucky enough to have one, but for those who own this room, there are numerous ways to utilize and furnish it.

Let’s explore them together!

– DINING AREA

That is perhaps one of the most common ways to furnish a basement. The basement is often transformed into a dining area to avoid making a mess in the main living space and to enjoy mealtime more informally.

If you want to set up your basement as a dining area, it’s essential to have a kitchenette.

That is much more practical as it saves you the hassle of going up and down to carry dishes.

It doesn’t need to be as extensive as the kitchen in your main living area, but it should have all the essential elements for heating and serving food, in addition to a refrigerator.

Naturally, you’ll need a reasonably large table to accommodate everyone, and you can use benches or chairs as seating.

(credits: freshpalace.com; cose di casa)

Try to avoid stools if possible, as they can be quite uncomfortable.

It’s okay to keep things informal, but stools are not the most comfortable choice.

If you have enough space, you might also consider creating a conversation area with some armchairs for post-meal relaxation.

That is even more appealing if you’re fortunate enough to have a fireplace!

PAY ATTENTION TO THE LIGHTING

When it comes to lighting, you’re likely to have limited natural light, so remember to illuminate the space effectively:

– use ambient, soft lighting to ensure the entire area is well-lit;

– install dedicated task lighting for the kitchen, to properly illuminate the workspace;

– place lighting over the dining table so that the food and setting are always well-illuminated.

(I talk about lighting here)

As for the style that works best in a basement, it depends on the architecture and your personal preferences.

The beauty of a basement is that it’s a distinct space from the rest of the house, so you’re not constrained to match the style of the main living areas.

Exposed brick can give a more rustic or industrial vibe, while plastered walls and ceilings offer a blank canvas for you to choose the style you prefer!

– WINE CELLAR WITH A BAR AREA

If you’re a wine enthusiast, you can transform your basement into a marvelous wine cellar.

Displaying your wine collection can be a work of art, and if you also enjoy making cocktails, it’s a great idea to pair the wine cellar with a bar area!

You can set up a lovely bar counter with a selection of glasses and other liquor bottles.

This way, you can treat your friends and family to your fantastic aperitifs or host wine tastings.

(credits: kwdesigns.com; weheartit.com)

If space allows, consider creating a conversation area for a more relaxed wine-tasting experience.

Just like in the dining area, it’s essential to have both general ambient and specific task lighting for the bar.

As for the wine cellar area, it might require specialized lighting, but if you’re a wine connoisseur, you probably know more about that than I do!

– READING AREA

If you are fond of books, I’m sure you never seem to have enough space for them, and you particularly enjoy alienating yourself a bit when you want to read.

Your basement could actually become your sanctuary!

You can fill it with bookshelves and create a cozy sitting area where you can immerse yourself in your reading.

(credits: studiovert.com; overstock.com)

There are plenty of solutions available in the market for creating your library, with various materials to choose from.

Just find the most functional for the space and your needs.

A couple of armchairs or a small sofa will complete the reading nook.

You can also consider enhancing the space with a pretty stereo system for some background music to enjoy even more the reading experience!

That all depends on your preferences and the type of reader you are.

Once again, pay attention to lighting.

In addition to ambient lighting, make sure to have specific task lighting for reading near your seating area to avoid straining your eyes.

– HOME THEATER

You might have a deep passion for movies, documentaries, and TV series, so why not transform your basement into a home theater?

You’ll have the luxury of enjoying it without having to share the space with anyone but the people you love.

With proper soundproofing, you can install top-notch home theater equipment without disturbing anyone nearby.

(credits: ecstasymodels.tumblr.com; pinterest)

You can create a super modern home theater with a large TV screen mounted on the wall, or you can opt for a slightly more vintage setup with a high-quality projector and leave the wall smooth and white as a screen.

Find some comfortable reclining chairs, and then… enjoy the show!

– HOME GYM

If you’re someone who loves staying in shape but doesn’t enjoy spending hours at the gym, you can always consider bringing the gym to your basement!

You can select the right exercise equipment and arrange the room to suit your workout routine.

(credits: pinterest)

It’s a practical option because you can use it whenever you want for as long as you like, eliminating the time wasted on commuting to a gym. Plus, when you’re done, you’re already at home!

– PLUS ONE

“What does ‘plus one’ mean?”

It means that you could also decide to combine multiple functions, such as having a dining area with a wine cellar and a bar or a gym and a reading nook…

That, of course, depends on the size of your basement.

In general, you could leave it as one huge open space for most combinations, perhaps visually dividing the various zones with colors, rugs, or furniture acting as “room dividers.”

If you’re combining two distinct functions, like a dining area and a gym, it’s a good idea to create separate, different zones to maintain a sense of order.

(credits: fbcremodel.com)

When you have two different functions in one space, the same design principles you use in your house apply:

– use a consistent color palette (as mentioned earlier, visually divide with different colors that are part of the same palette);

– maintain a cohesive style or a mix of styles that creates a harmonious feel across the different zones.

I hope you found this article helpful and enjoyable. If you did, please let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested; I would be honored, and it will help me get noticed.

If you feel that your home or any part of it doesn’t reflect you enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

/0 Comments/by

Renovate or plan a bathroom? 5 trends and ideas to do it best!

Do you need to renovate or plan a bathroom? In today’s article, I would like to share with you 5 ideas and trends to do it in the best possible way.

It’s incredible how the perception and experience of the bathroom have changed over time.

Initially, the bathroom was located outside the house because it was considered a dirty and unhygienic place.

Then, it became incorporated into the house for convenience but remained a secondary space.

Over the years, the bathroom has acquired increasing importance, evolving into a mini spa.

Today, the bathroom is actually one of the most crucial elements people consider when buying or building a home, and even the smallest ones are designed for maximum functionality.

Let’s look at the trends for contemporary bathrooms, which are highly functional and absolutely on-trend!

1 – WALL-MOUNTED FURNITURE

For a few years now, countertops or built-in sinks have been trending.

And this trend continues this year!

Wall-mounted furniture is an excellent way to make a bathroom appear larger than it actually is: the space underneath visually expands the area.

Moreover, they serve a practical purpose because they make floor cleaning easier!

(credits: Sonia Meneghin; rénovert)

You can find wall-mounted furniture in various shapes and sizes on the market, so you can definitely find something that suits your needs and style.

You can place or embed the sink on a support shelf in small bathrooms where a full-sized cabinet might be too bulky.

That will be a minimalistic yet highly impactful decor!

With boards made of wood or any material you prefer, you can definitely get creative and design something that fits perfectly into the available space.

(credits: leroymerlin.it; vogliadiristrutturare.it)

One original idea is to incorporate LED strips UNDER the furniture or the boards.

That creates unique and captivating atmospheres: it emphasizes the elevation of the furniture, defines the volumes, and enhances diffused lighting.

(credits: deghishop.it; screwfix.com)

Be CAUTIOUS of the floor surface when adding lighting under the furniture: if they are glossy, they reflect the light, which can be actually annoying!

In this case, make sure the light is not directed towards the floor; instead, you can aim it at the wall, or at the very least, use an LED strip with a diffuser!

2 – INTEGRATED LIGHTING

We already know lighting is essential everywhere, and the bathroom is no exception!

The trend for bathroom lighting is to incorporate it into the architecture, illuminating the geometry and volumes of the space instead of relying on the traditional central light fixture and mirror lights.

This type of lighting makes the environment more sophisticated, clean, and modern; it produces a soft light that creates a beautiful atmosphere!

(credits: pinterest; screwfix.com)

This kind of lighting is becoming increasingly popular because technology and LED lighting are becoming more accessible and versatile.

It’s great to use this type of lighting, not only under the wall-mounted furniture we discussed earlier but also behind the mirror, in potential niches, recessed in the ceiling, or along his perimeter.

(credits: ernesto.it; artheco.it)

Of course, you can add, as well, decorative wall or ceiling lights according to your style!

(credits: screwfix.com; medium.com)

A good lighting design combines various types of lighting (I explain it here), and playing with different lights in the bathroom can create truly enchanting spaces!

3 – MIXING TEXTURES AND MATERIALS

Mixing different materials and textures is crucial in interior design in general, as it creates contrast and movement, and contrast is a fundamental aspect of interior design (I discuss it here).

That holds true for bathrooms as well!

You could use different materials or colors to distinguish two distinct areas within the bathroom.

(credits: anword.com; leroymerlin.it)

For instance, the shower area could have a floor made of the same material but with different colors than the rest of the bathroom.

Alternatively, you could use entirely distinct materials that still complement the colors of the overall flooring.

You might decide to make the sink area and mirror the focal point of your bathroom by using tiles that contrast with the rest or even opting for wallpaper!

(credits: il-bagno.it; milanuncios.com)

As for the floors, of course, be careful that it is not a slippery material to avoid possible accidents!

A timeless combination is marble, either in white or black, with wood, combining the elegance of marble with the warmth of wood.

(credits: screwfix.com)

For an ultra-modern bathroom, you can combine concrete with wood and satin-finish elements.

Don’t be afraid to use wood; specially treated woods exist, which endure the moisture present in bathrooms.

You can mix highly patterned tiles with neutral colors and uniquely shaped elements for a more relaxing atmosphere.

(credits: obi.de)

There’s a wide array of choices available in the market when it comes to materials, and making decisions can get quite complex.

You can find a lot of examples for tile combinations, but remember, a bathroom isn’t just about tiles!

You have to consider lighting, furniture, sanitaryware, faucets, and various elements, and the risk of picking things you like individually but don’t work well together is quite significant.

HELP YOURSELF WITH A MOOD BOARD

So, how do you go about it?

As discussed in the 4 steps to furnish, creating a mood board can be immensely helpful for the bathroom as well.

A mood board is a sheet where you assemble all the pieces together.

(credits: saniweb.com)

You can easily find images of what you like online, perhaps on the retailer’s website.

Take these images and place them close together to see if the overall look is balanced and harmonious.

If not, you may need to change the mismatched piece.

Mood boards are an indispensable tool for interior designers, and I highly recommend using one when renovating or planning a bathroom!

4 – LARGE TILES

Contemporary spaces favor clean and minimalist lines, so using large-sized tiles in the bathroom is a winning choice!

The fewer interruptions in the lines, the more spacious the room will appear.

It’s also important to try to place the tiles as close to each other as possible and use grout material that matches the tile color as closely as possible.

(credits: kylandkara.com; lightslightslights.com)

That will make everything look more linear, uniform, and elegant, and, most importantly, it will reduce dirt buildup in the grout lines!

5 – TOUCHES OF BLACK

We’ve seen it in the 2021 trends: in recent years, touches of black are a beloved trend that continues to be popular!

Black details, typically matte, are widely used.

It could be the faucet, the cabinet handles, the mirror frame or shower enclosure, or even the sink itself!

Black details add a certain visual weight to the space, helping to bring strength and movement to the environment, especially when light colors dominate.

(credits: Rubinet Faucet Company’s; verticalclimb.it)

The contrast created is truly unique and captivating.

Black complements just about any material, but before incorporating this touch of black, consider how it harmonizes with the rest of the space so you can use it in the right proportions!

I hope this article has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

 

/0 Comments/by

How to choose curtains properly?

,

Curtains are the blessing and bane of interior design, but how to choose the correct curtains?

First and foremost, you should think of curtains as fully-fledged decorative elements.

They must be functional, serve a specific purpose, and reflect your style.

Curtains filter light, provide privacy, dress up windows, add warmth to spaces, and introduce textures and, if desired, colors.

A home without curtains, except for exceptional views, can give the impression of an incomplete and even neglected space.

Choosing curtains should be done with care, much like the rest of your furnishings, as they can completely transform the look of a room.

If you’re unsure, you can make this choice in the second stage after your home is already furnished.

This approach allows you to get a better understanding of spaces and, most importantly, consider color and style coordination for perfect harmony!

Let’s have a look at the types of curtains to see how to choose them!

DRAPE CURTAINS

These are the classic curtains supported by a rod or a track.

They are the most versatile and can fit any window or French door.

Depending on the rod and fabric chosen, they can complement any style.

The thing that sets the style apart, in addition to the rod and fabric, is the type of drapery.

The richer the curtain’s draping, the more it suits a classic style, while minimal, understated drapery works well with a more modern and contemporary look.

(credits: Gaia Miacola Architetto)

YOU CAN REALLY INDULGE YOURSELF….

You can use them in a simple, standalone fashion, with more or less transparent panels for varying levels of privacy and light control, or combine them with other window treatments.

(credits: Katke Zavese; gotain.com)

You can choose to have a double drapery setup, with one, as mentioned earlier, being semi-transparent and the other blackout, which you can open or close as needed.

That is perfect, for example, in a bedroom.

Alternatively, instead of the blackout curtain, you can opt for colored fabrics to leave open at the sides to add a touch of color!

(credits: hackrea.com; pinterest)

Or you can also pair them with totally different curtains, such as panel or roller curtains (we’ll discuss these specifically later).

(credits: hoomebook.pl; YourSpaceForniture.com)

That can often be very practical:

For instance, if you have a French door that you frequently open and close, opening and closing the curtains could become annoying.

In such a case, you could install a simple panel curtain against the glass and keep the drapery curtains open at the sides.

At this point, you may decide to use particular and colorful fabrics to add an extra touch!

If you opt for this type of curtains, remember that one panel may be sufficient for a single-door window, while double-hung windows typically require two panels.

PAY ATTENTION TO THE MEASUREMENTS…

The width of the panels should be about 1.5 to 2 times the width of the window.

That is because curtains should extend beyond the window frame to cover a bit of the wall and, most importantly, have a soft, draped appearance.

Regarding the height (in order to avoid falling into one of the classic mistakes made when decorating), they should be installed at ceiling height or just below it, extending at least to the floor.

In areas with little passage, you can have them lean a little more for an added touch of elegance!

(credits: PianetaDesign.it; Lizzie Mackey)

For these curtains, there are numerous different support options available, such as rods, tracks, or even metal wires.

The choice, naturally, depends on the style you want to achieve!

Even among curtain rods, there is a wide variety: wood, steel, wrought iron, and more.

When selecting a rod, there are other significant accessories to consider, such as finials and, optionally, curtain catchers.

Again, much of this will depend on the style you’re aiming for.

Ornate finials and curtain catchers are better suited for a classic style, while more streamlined options are good for a modern and contemporary look.

ROLLER AND ROMAN CURTAINS

This type of window treatment is very sleek and fits perfectly with contemporary and modern styles.

These curtains gather the fabric at the top of the window, either with smooth panels or by rolling up, similar to outdoor shades.

Roman shades are more decorative because, when you raise them, they form equally spaced folds, creating a sense of movement.

(credits: Maria Nigro; mottura.com)

They can be made from simple semi-filtering fabric or feature colorful patterns and semi-darkening options.

Roller shades can also be dual, with one being semi-transparent and the other being blackout, adjustable independently.

They can even be made from bamboo, making them ideal for a beach home!

(credits: A1 blinds.co.uk; tau.com; blancohnosdecoraciones.com)

Both models can be large, covering the entire window as the drapery curtains.

In this case, you should install them close to the ceiling.

Alternatively, you can mount them at the window frame: more practical for opening and closing the window, but certainly less scenic!

If you opt for large shades that cover the entire window, remember that the shade should be wider than the window and extend a portion onto the wall, at least 15-20 cm on each side.

The window treatments applied directly to the glass work well, especially when paired with drapery curtains!

As for glass applications, there are straight panels or ones that can be gathered at the bottom using a magnet.

Glass applications are particularly suitable for small spaces, such as bathrooms and kitchens, where floor-length curtains may not be as practical.

(credits: TendaTappeti.com; tao.com)

However, if space allows, even in these rooms, you can opt for floor-length drapery curtains.

While it’s true that they may require more frequent cleaning, the dramatic visual impact they create is truly unique!

SLIDING PANEL CURTAINS

This type of curtain fits perfectly with a minimalistic style and is very convenient for huge windows.

They are simple panels, often with a weight bar at the bottom to keep them taut, and they slide horizontally on dedicated tracks (similar to sliding closet doors).

They are straightforward and easy to handle and can become quite decorative when you choose fabrics with patterns!

(credits: Lidia Siragusa; Valeria Bartolo)

One thing to keep in mind when selecting this type of curtain: it’s better to have, if possible, fewer panels that are wider rather than more narrow panels.

The wide panels can also visually expand the room!

Here, as with roller or Roman shades, the curtains should be larger than the window by at least 15-20 cm on each side!

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT CURTAINS?

The choice of one type over another should be based on the style and atmosphere you want to create in a space, and you can use each type of curtain in all areas of the house.

When it comes to curtains, try to maintain consistency by using the same type in all rooms to create a cohesive look.

Of course, you can choose to have double drapery in only one room and not throughout the house, but if you opt for drapery, make it drapery everywhere (with exceptions for bathrooms and kitchens), and if it’s roller shades, then go with roller shades anywhere.

In cases where you combine different curtain types, such as having Roman shades on the glass and drapery, you can skip the drapery everywhere else but keep the Roman shades consistent.

I hope this article on how to choose the right curtains has been helpful and enjoyable for you. If so, let me know in the comments!

Feel free to share it with anyone you think might be interested, I would be honored, and it will help me gain more exposure.

If you feel that your home, or any specific area of it, doesn’t reflect your personality enough, don’t wait any longer and book your consultancy!

/0 Comments/by