Home & decor's Blog

Matching Flower Arrangements To Your Home Decor

homeanddecor — Sun, 03 May 2009 06:20:03 +0000

Whatever your home decor style is, flower arrangements can enhance it. There are various kinds of arrangements
that can suit your interior decor, be it country, tropical, contemporary, english or oriental.

Let’s look at how to match flower arrangements to your home interior design.

Contemporary

Contemporary design focuses on light and space. This is a good point to remember. To create contemporary design in your home, always emphasize on these two factors.

Balance between natural colours and bright colours are usually associated with this design. And, the shapes in a contemporary design is defined.

Flower arrangements to match this design is the easiest to work with. Apart from flowers, plants can be used to enhance the design, too.

English

English design accents are like printed floral fabrics and wooden flooring and furniture. When you enter an English-styled room, you can feel a sense of romance.

Which is why romantic flowers are suitable for this design. Flowers like roses, hydrangeas, gardenias, tulips are suitable for this design. On the other hand, I think greeneries or plants are not suitable.

Country

Decorating a country-styled home with flowers is rather easy. Country homes must be associated with wooden furniture and earthen colours.

For country homes, dried flowers wreaths and arrangements are best. In the kitchen, you can also decorate with fresh sunflowers or dried vegetables.

Arrangements in wicker baskets are also suitable for country style. The guide to decorating a country home is to use flower arrangement with ‘fresh from the garden’ look.

With that, you could not go wrong.

Tropical

Tropical inspired homes are very famous in the Asian region. Exotic wood and teak furniture are elements of a tropical home. Not much colours are involved and usually the home has an outdoor feeling and very airy.

To match this style, use tropical flowers like orchids, proteas, heliconias and birds of paradise. These flowers will certainly complete your tropical home with elegance.

Using plants and greeneries also help. Oil palm trees and ferns are good choices.

Oriental

Oriental homes are either Japanese or Chinese inspired. Japanese home accents are like tatami mats and bamboo sliding doors. Ikebana arrangements is most suitable for Japanese style homes.

For Chinese styled homes, there are usually heavy carvings in the furniture. Rosewood is most commonly used in their furniture. Bonsai plants will complete your Chinese styled homes.

Liztiany Zakaria is a flower arranging hobbyist who does flower arrangements at leisure to decorate her home. She also contributes flower arrangement ideas for special occassion gifts at her website http://www.flower-arrangement-advisor.com

[tags]flower arrangements, home decorating, floral arranging[/tags]

Keep Things In Order With A Written Home Decorating Plan

homeanddecor — Sun, 03 May 2009 03:26:00 +0000

Begin your written plan by choosing one room to start with. This helps keep you and your budget focused on the project. Which not only guarantees it’s completion, it’s going to save you money.
Why? Remember impulse buying, well it’s less likely to occur if you’ve planned and written down items specifically for that one room.

Think about it this way; You go to the grocery store without a list, what happens? Everything looks good, so you end up buying extra things you do not need and probably forget a few essential items.

Tip: A large notebook or blank writing journal will help make this process easier. This will come in handy for jotting down ideas, measurements, color choices, keeping track of purchases even drawing out a layout of your room. Also, if your purchasing any large items furniture, lighting, carpet etc. this is a good place to keep track of stores that carry things you’ve seen and the prices.

Now that you have chosen the room, the next step is to think about how the room is used. Sound like a strange thought, well not really. This will determine the direction your decorating goes in.

For Example: Lets say your looking to make changes in your living room. Is this the main area used for entertaining, family gatherings or watching TV and movies? Do you have children with friends hanging out at your home. How about pets, are they normally in here with you?

Sound like home, if so than practical, less fussy is the direction to go. There are endless ways to make your room function well and still have great style.

A few ideas might include:

1) Durable easy clean fabrics, like removable, washable slipcovers

2) Baskets or plastic stacking crates are perfect for remotes,

3) DVD’S, CD’s and games. This makes for easy pick up at the end of the day, or when company suddenly shows up.

4) Possibly fewer pieces in the room, giving you more floor space.

Tip: Look for pieces that will serve double duty. Many ottomans today have build in storage, do you get extra seating plus some place to stash things quick.

5) Large floor pillows for TV or movie watching (kids, for some reason love laying on the floor).

6) If space permits, a table and chairs for playing games, doing craft or homework projects.

7) Washable latex paint for easy clean up.

The final step is to be realistic about your list of changes. Choose things that fit comfortably into your current budget, overtime more things can be done. So for right now, just remember, simple savvy changes can make a big difference

This article is shareware. Give this article away for free on your site, or include it as part of any paid package as long as the entire article is left intact including this notice. Copyright © 2005 Bonnie Carrier

Bonnie P. Carrier is the creator of Savvy Home Decorating & Savvy Outdoor Decorating. She is the mother to two grown daughters and a very spoiled 4yr old Blue Merle Sheltie named Toby. Stop by both site for indoor and outdoor decorating ideas. http://www.savvy-home-decorating.com

http://www.savvyhomedecorating.com

[tags]home decorating, decorating plan, written plan[/tags]

Vastu-Harmonious Home Decor Tips from Ancient India

homeanddecor — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 06:04:00 +0000

Just as we have relationships with other people, we also have a relationship with our environment. We are connected to each other and to the universe at the same time. Our environments are an extension of our lives, and we feel better and function more efficiently when we are in harmony with our environment. When your world is in order, the “outer” part of yourself, the you can focus your attention to your inner world. The spiritual journey really is an exploration of both the inner and the outer.

Ayurveda comes from the Vedic texts of India. In this same philosophy, there is a “science of architecture” known as vastu. The word vastu means “a dwelling or site.” Vastu is a blend of science and spirituality that gives guidelines for enhancing our environments so we can create a space where we can live and work happily and productively. When we are happy with where we spend our time, our relationships with the people we spend time with will be better, too!

Vastu has actually been around a lot longer than feng shui, and is believed to be the inspiration for it.

Both Ayurveda and vastu are based on the idea that the five elements (air, space, fire, water, and earth)are in balance within us and all around us. In Vedic symbolism, the square represents the cosmos; it is the perfect form.

Nature
To be more in tune with nature and it’s intelligence, bring nature indoors wherever possible. Besides planting trees, items that are made naturally are also recommended. For example, clay pots, cotton rugs, woven accessories, shells, and fresh flowers all help to remind us of our connection with nature. Desktop fountains help to bring the element of water. Scented candles bring in the element of fire. Open some windows in the morning to bring in fresh air.

Quiet Space
It’s always nice to have an area set aside in your home for quiet and meditation. In India, these are called prayer rooms. This is a place where you can just relax and find inner peace. Additionally, within each room of your home, it is good to have a small area set aside to remind you of your connection to a higher being. This can be a shelf filled with figurines or spiritual sayings, an altar, or a special painting. Use whatever is meaningful for you.

Clutter
Clutter in your environment creates clutter in your mind. You can’t think as clearly or function as efficiently as you could in an orderly environment. Vastu recommends that clutter be kept to a minimum. Closet doors and bathroom doors should remain closed at all times. Keep drawers and cupboards closed as well to avoid any more clutter. Keep hallways clear so you can move about freely.

Books
Books represent knowledge and are a wonderful addition to the home. Keep books neatly arranged. When books are accessible and easy to find, they are more likely to be read.

Family
Photographs of family help to personalize your space. Displaying pictures that remind you of loved ones and happy memories will bring good energy to a room. Artwork that your children make for you is also good to have around.

Products
Rather than using chemicals, which contain toxins or unpleasant odors, vastu recommends that we use natural products to clean our environments and our bodies. Clothing made of natural fabrics is better for our skin than synthetic blends. Wonderful organic products for the bathroom, such as lotions, scrubs, and oils, are now available. You can find some sampler baskets on my website:
http://www.planetbliss.org

Aromatherapy,
balancing fragrances:
Vata
*vanilla
*orange
*lavender
*pine
Pitta
*rose
*jasmine
*sandalwood
*peppermint
Kapha
*cinnamon
*basil
*eucalyptus
*musk

Outdoors
Create a space where you can sit outdoors and enjoy nature. Get a comfortable chair where you can relax in the evening air after a long day at work. Hang a bird feeder outside your kitchen window. Plant flowers that attract butterflies and other wildlife. Start an herb garden that you can use when cooking. Put a pool, pond, or fountain in the northeast corner of your yard so you can reap the benefits of the element of water. Above all, make your home comfortable. Fill it with things that you love and that are meaningful to you. This is a place where you should want to be, a place that reflects who you are.

Visit my website to find products related to this article.

www.planetbliss.org

[tags]Ayurveda, yoga, feng shui[/tags]

Seven Home Decor Quick Make-Over Tips

homeanddecor — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 04:40:18 +0000

If your home d

Home Decor Made Simple

homeanddecor — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 07:31:04 +0000

Home decor can be a challenging and sometimes confusing responsibility for many people. Of course, it is something that applies to just about everyone who lives in a home. In simple terms, home decor comprises the items and style that decorate your home. Home decor is the most essential part of what makes a real home rather than just a place where you live and sleep. Ideally, your home decor will be a continuing work in progress that evolves with your family and lifestyle changes.

Shopping for home decor can be similar to shopping for accessories or footwear to go with a new outfit. And just as with shopping for clothing, some love it and some are less than thrilled with the concept. Those who enjoy the process often find the time spent working on home decor to be relaxing. Others are motivated by the thrill of finding clearance home d

Soothing Symbols as Home Decor

homeanddecor — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 04:08:18 +0000

Did you know that our bodies can automatically react to certain environmental changes and stimuli, even to symbols you might use as decorative accents? I have a little experiment for you to try in a moment so you can experience the power of this idea. Once you see the reactions that can occur, you may find you will want to to use this idea towards creating more soothing and peaceful home and office surroundings.

You can try this brief experiment to see how your body and mind reacts to some changes… Right now, pretend you are angry for a moment- feel the tension in your forehead, the wrinkles starting to form as you frown and all that… also, lean forward right now in your chair and clench your fists. Hold this and let yourself think an unpleasant thought. But now, let’s change something- force your mouth muscles into a big smile and hold it there, smile! Now lean back in your chair. Hold this reclined position. Also, loosen up your hands again and keep a gentle smile… So, how are you feeling now?

Most people report feeling they are unable to continue feeling angry and that they become relaxed. Yet all they changed were positions of their own body muscles! Did you realize that there are certain things our bodies become conditioned to with repeated exposure? For instance, when we recline in a chair, our brains interpret this posture as, “ah, I am relaxed.” So, simple physical posture changes can trigger automatic changes in a person’s thoughts and feelings.

Here’s an example of how things in your surroundings can trigger changes in your thoughts and feelings. Picture a place you have enjoyed visiting. It’s like the sights and sounds there speak to your soul! Can’t you suddenly get lost in that place, feel lighter, more at ease? There are certain symbols that many of us have become conditioned to throughout the years and that prompt changes in our thoughts and feelings as well. For instance, does saluting the flag or singing the national anthem ever get you feeling patriotic, teary eyed or choked up? If so, you are reacting to the symbolism, to that imagery, to those sounds.

Now that you can see the power of symbols and how they can prompt certain reactions, why not use this to your advantage in creating more soothing surroundings at work and at home?

Here is a list of several symbols that have been used throughout the ages to represent such things as peace, tranquility, serenity, balance, faith, hope and goodwill. You may wish to consider one or more of these elements in your decorating plans since many individuals react favorably to these symbols and enjoy their essence.

Dove of peace
Angels (some even have angels holding a dove of peace)
Serenity prayer or other prayer for joy or peace
Peace sign
Bless this home
Native American peace pipes and such replicas
Water element or fountain
Yin yang (balance)
Peace crane
Rainbows
Color blue
Color white
Olive branch
Chinese characters proclaiming peace, joy, love or harmony

As you discover that your body and mind reacts to soothing symbols, you will want to consider including some of these symbolic elements when decorating your office or home. Adding these accents will not only help you feel more relaxed and inspired, but will also help your visitors experience your surroundings as more soothing and inviting.

About The Author

Liz Hekimian-Williams is founder of Giftsprings.com, an online gifts and home decor shop where you can find a large variety of home and garden accents, holiday, personalized, and special occasion gifts. http://www.Giftsprings.com

[tags]interior decorating,interior design,home decor,home interior,real estate,home improvement,family[/tags]

Decorative Clocks Enhancing the Style of Your Home Decor

homeanddecor — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 08:39:06 +0000

Not just going to settle for any clock? Try a decorative clock, one that seems to have been designed especially for you! Decorative clocks are sometimes available at department stores. Among the most popular are wall-hanging clocks, cuckoo clocks and Grandfather clocks.

Great Gift And Home Decor Ideas!

homeanddecor — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 05:13:04 +0000

You don`t need to buy a new sofa or other expensive furniture to update your home!
Just add some new, colorful details and your room will look completely new! You can change themes by simply changing the details like cushions, table cloths and table runners.

Decorative pillows – Decorative pillows are great gift ideas! By using decorative pillows in your living room you can easily change to different themes without costing the shirt! Choose two or three cushions that coordinate well with the current style or add a splash in unexpected color. Add a coordinating table runner and the room is redecorated in minutes!

Bed covers – Bed covers come in many varieties. Plain, patterned, embroidered, quilted. They make a great change to your bed room. Add matching cushions.

Place mats – Place mats come in so many fabrics and colors! Why not choose two or three different colors and you won`t get tired of the same old ones day after day. Easily to wash if you or your kids spill!

Going to a wedding and have no idea what to bring as gift? Why not buy them a set of place mats and matching napkins and some napkin rings?

For other great gifts visit www.houseofedna.com or www.houseofedna.no

House of Edna is owned by Edna Solem and offers outstanding gift articles, jewelry, ladies hand bags and much more.

[tags]Home decor, cushions, shopping[/tags]

10 Home Decorating Ideas To Quickly Update Any Room

homeanddecor — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 08:18:09 +0000

Not all home decorating ideas require a heavy investment of time and money. If you’re looking for a few affordable home interior decorating ideas to freshen up a room over a weekend, try these ten:

1. Rearrange The Furniture- Pull your furniture away from the walls. Try positioning it at intriguing angles. For example, a sofa arranged diagonally across a narrow living room will make the room look wider.

2. Paint A Wall- Paint one wall your favorite color and make it the focal point. Hang interesting art on that wall and move a nice piece of furniture there. (Note: Make sure that the color is one that is shared with several other objects and fabrics in the room.)

3. Bring In Plants- Greenery always adds a breath of fresh air to a room. If you don’t have a green thumb, try silk plants and trees. The quality has gotten so good that its hard to distinguish them from the real thing.

4. Lay An Area Rug- An area rug is a wonderful way of defining a conversation area. Try one that complements the room. Lay it at an angle beneath your coffee table.

5. Hang Pictures or Mirror- Hang pictures that reflect your personality. Try frames that are more ornate. When hanging a mirror, try and position it so that it reflects and nice view or an interesting architectural element.

6. Group Figurines- Pull out your favorite collectibles. Show off your personality. Find a display area and group related objects together, in sets of three or five. Try and vary the shapes.

7. Add Decorative Pillows- The good news about decorative pillows is that they are an easy way to add textures and patterns to a room. Still better, they can be changed to jazz up a sofa or chair before your room is ready for a major makeover.

8. Replace Lamps- Lamps are probably the one thing in your home that will give others a clue that your room is outdated. Seek out new and fresh lamps that make a statement.

9. Add A Throw Or Afghan- Similar to decorative pillows, throws and afghans add texture to your furniture. They come in all kinds of natural and man made fabrics. Find a pattern and style that you like.

10. Eliminate Clutter- Clutter has a way of eliminating the desired mood and effect of any room. Find storage spaces for papers, toys, and other items that take from the personality of a room.

About The Author

Michael Holland is the creator of the Web sites http://www.kids-rooms-and-crafts.com and http://www.home-decorating-made-easy.com. His sites offer lots of FREE home decorating tips and ideas.

support@kids-rooms-and-crafts.com

[tags]home decor,decorating,home interior,interior decorating,art,wallhangings,family[/tags]

Cottage Style Home Decorating 7 Tips From My Quintessential Cottage Cats

homeanddecor — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 07:13:04 +0000

When I think of a cozy cottage style home, I immediately think of the quintessential cottage cat. You know the kindsweet and fluffy and all curled up on the seat of your favorite antique rocker.

Here are 7 Decorating Tips from my own two Scottish Fold cats, Beau and Monique, for creating a “cozy cottage cat atmosphere” for your own home.

1. Kitty Condo. What cat doesn’t love to climb up and down one of those carpet covered kitty condos? By providing one for your cats, you’ll also reduce the claw marks on your furniture and window treatments. You can purchase one that matches the colors in your cottage.

2. Beautiful Beds. You can easily buy decorative beds at pet stores and on the internet. My cats have two round pink fur “cozy rings” that I bought at Target when I was redecorating my cottage bedroom. Their cozy rings look attractive, match my d