Persian Gabbeh Rugs

In the Persian language Farsi, the word Gabbeh means something raw or uncut. A Gabbeh is a traditional variety of Persian rugs woven for centuries and are known to be the world's best coarsely woven Iranian tribal rugs. Sometimes spelled as 'Gabbe', these hand-woven rugs have a size of at least 90 x 150 cm or larger and are characterized by an abstract design that relies upon fields of color and playfulness with geometry. Also an evident characteristic when it comes to Gabbeh rugs is its very thick pile woven in a relatively low knot density making it thicker than other Persian carpets. Almost exclusively knotted for personal use, these true nomadic rugs are fabricated by the woman's spirit and instinctive craftsmanship on their personal interpretations of life in art.

Made of natural hand-spun wool yarn, all of the different colors of Gabbeh rugs are created from natural plant dye. The Gabbe has a relative ease of production having less preciseness in pattern, small number of knots, etc. It is one of the less expensive variety of Persian carpets out in the market today.

The Persian Gabbeh generally falls into one of the following categories:

1. Amalehbaft Gabbeh - these type of rugs feature a medium weave in terms of coarseness and knots-per-inch. These category of rugs have lesser designs compared to the basic Gabbeh. However, these beautiful rugs have a tighter weave, shorter pile and plain simple patterns that are great for adding color to a room without the distraction of too many design elements.
2. Luribaft Gabbeh - Features a fairly short, fine weaved soft pile. Compared to the rest of the Gabbeh categories, the Luribaft typically have more complex, detailed design elements inspired by other classical Persian rugs. Similar to the Kashkoli type, these type of Gabbeh rugs are made of tightly woven, high-quality wool that give them a unique trademark gleam.
3. Baluch Sumak - is similar to the Gabbeh Sumak, being that it is also flat woven in its design. Although less colorful than the Gabbeh Sumak, the Baluch is a gracefully, fine-detailed rug, usually with beautiful tribal design elements.
4. Gabbeh Sumak - are not like the common pile rugs but are rather flat woven. The Gabbeh Sumak has its tribal designs colorfully woven directly into its foundation. Amazingly detailed and designed, such rugs as these Gabbeh Sumak are fairly inexpensive despite its stylish quality.
5. Kashkoli Gabbeh - also features a fine weave and fairly short, soft pile. Known to be similar with the Amalehbaft and the basic Gabbeh, the Kashkoli have a sparse but colorful geometric design. The quality of the wool and the tightness of the weave make these brilliant rugs a sheen that you must see in person to believe.

The Gabbeh rugs are usually woven on horizontal looms that can be quickly and easily assembled by the nomadic people of Southern Iran. Materials such as local hand-spun sheep wool and vegetable dyes are what make up a traditional Gabbeh rug. These ingredients are extracted from native plants and roots found in the Zagros mountain range. These are then formulated from traditional recipes that have been perfected throughout the centuries. A few example of the raw materials used are pomegranate skin, madder root, indigo and walnut husks. The rich texture that emphasize the Gabbeh rugs come from the irregularities in the dye and wool that result not in a pure color, but rather a collage of similar hues.

Tips for Decorating a Beautiful Camouflage Bedroom

Have you been thinking of changing up your bedroom decor? Then, let's go on an adventure to find a fun and exciting theme? One of the easiest ways to change a room is to get a new bed set, and with bed sets today you have a lot of opportunity to change your room very quickly and affordable. Bed sets are a great, because they match and are a lot more affordable then purchasing individual pieces.

Are you and outdoor person? Have you ever thought about showing off your bedroom with a beautiful camouflage bedding to show off your true passion in life. The goal behind this article is to create an informative resource for everyone that is researching or is interested in creating the perfect bedroom with camouflage bedding.

Furniture is great decorative touch that can add a lot to your nature theme. Start thinking outside of the box (or in the wild), let's take some branches and tree trunks that can be easily added to give your home a very rustic feel. With such a simple thing as branches to wrap around a lamp can drastically change the feel of that lamp. Just use a little of your imagination and integrate some of your favorite elements.

Another great element to include in redecorating your bedroom or home is to use rocks. Personally, I really like large smooth pebbles that can be easily added into a large bowl (I like glass bowls). Add in some moss or something earthy to these rocks and BAM! You now have created a little decorative bowl that can add so much to your room. Have you ever seen the little plants that grow in rocks? Take that approach and add that to the bowl. Have fun with the rocks that you find, they aren't just for sitting on anymore!

Now, let's think... What do I really like about the outdoors? Is it the wind? How about the rivers? Trees? Snow? It can be anything that draws you to the outdoors. If there is a specific element that you really love that would go with your camouflage bedding, use it! It will make your room truly yours!

As I mentioned in the beginning I don't want your wallet to be hit too badly when you decide to decorate for your camouflage lover. Remember that bedding sets will be less expensive, because you will not have to purchase individual pieces, which add up so quickly. And why not keep your existing sheets? Depending on the camouflage you decide on. But here are a few ideas for some sheets, go with a green, khaki, and blue or pink. If you want to accentuate a color within the room that might not be pulled out from the camouflage use your sheets to catch their eye.

Filling Your Home with Modern Accent Furniture

Modern accent furniture is the most attractive genre of home decor. This furniture is specially designed to add interest and give a luxurious touch to your place. The huge collection accent furniture allows homeowners with different tastes and budgets to buy a perfect match for their interior. You can find these products in many designs, shapes and styles.

Amongst the huge collection of these decors are accent clocks, tables, chairs, mirrors, chests etc. all these come in great options and can be used in many parts of your home.

Here are some reasons as to why buying these decors is absolutely essential.

1. Elegance. These decors have great appeal and can add a touch of class to your home with their unique elegance. The great finishing and chic of this furniture can endow your home with a luxurious tinge and thus help you to beautify your place in a beautiful way.
2. Great choices. Accent furniture comes in great varieties which allow different homeowners to find the perfect decor for their place. Unlike the other accents, this furniture has countless choices, sizes, styles and shapes.
3. Affordability. These accents are pretty affordable and people with low end as well as high budgets can buy them without any problem. Those who cannot afford costly stuff can also find great discount offers or cheap accent furniture to beautify their home and make their dream come true.
4. Function. Not only do these accents make your home look lovely and classy but they are also very functional. Thus you get to have beauty as well as practicality by means of these decors. Accents such as tables, chairs, mirrors etc. not only beautify your interior but also serve their conventional function and provide you with multiple benefits in one package.

Why Table and Floor Lamps are Great Interior Decor Additions

Lamps are decor additions that are purchased for your home not only for cosmetic purposes, but also for adding light to the room. A room that is well lit is always attracting and no person wants to stay in a gentle lit area. You can brighten the mood of your day with appropriate lamp shades. If you would like to have a calming effect in your house, you need to select lamps with warming colors. A table or floor lamp can be a remarkable add-on for your house as it not solely preserves space, but as well saves money. You can produce small decorative pieces on the table that is attached the lamp.

Pick Out the Right Size

The sizing of the floor lamp that you choose is extremely key. For an area to be well lit, you need to figure out the size of the lamp you should purchase. Conservative rooms call for low height lamps while for larger rooms. You should look for large lamps. You cannot simply put a large lamp in an area that will be crowded virtually all of the time. So, it is critical that you pick out the right size corresponding to the location and size of the area. You should also consider the kind of room before picking out the lamp because sleeping areas and living areas takes different lighting.

Match the Lamp with Other Interior Decorations

As you rely on the table or floor lamp to illuminate the whole room, you should think of the other decor you have already acquired in your house. Fitting the theme is really critical because matching colors need to be employed to set the right mood. Aside from thinking of other articles of furniture in the room, you need to also consider the color themes and floor when you pick out lamp floors for your room. Incompatible colors do not feel appealing and make a bad mood in the room. Some of the great choices are halogen floor lamps with many different styles of decoration that suits on your taste.

How to Create an Asian, Indonesian or Chinese Decorating Style

Oriental Design - Color Schemes

When looking to create your oriental oasis, you should start with your palette. The ideal color scheme for an oriental home design will include Red, Green, Jade (a lighter Green) and Black, which are all colors that feature in nature. Where possible, your furniture, wall colors and decorative pieces should reflect this natural affinity.

The greens could come from Bamboo. This will naturally incorporate the other colors of yellow and brown but since these are earthy, calming, natural colors, this slight deviation from color design principle is accepted. Green can also be incorporated with healthy plants, pale green wall colors or cushions, curtains and rugs.

The reds and blacks may come from natural hardwoods such as Teak, Oak or Mahogany. Choose good quality, solid wood furniture, in a stained, natural or black lacquer finish for an Asian inspired look. Oriental furniture is generally set low to the floor with clean, straight lines. The furniture pieces are relatively simple in design, achieving the desired, minimalist look.

The key here is to work with nature and with the cultural significance of the colors to create a truly harmonious space. A long held belief in the East and one that we are only really just beginning to understand and appreciate in the West is that different colors will influence the rooms they are used in, in different ways. It is important therefore that whatever decorative palette you use, you understand and work with the properties of the colors to create a tranquil yet energized home.

An example here is the color Red. It is associated with ideas of attraction, strength and warmth in Feng Shui and represents the fire element in Chinese culture. Used in small amounts, as occurs in nature, it will add energy and life to your home, as well as helping to attract good fortune. However, too much red can lead to over-stimulation, arguments and stress.

Green is the color of growth, restoration and balance - all good positive qualities to have in your life. However too much green, or too much of the same shade, can lead to stagnation, boredom and blandness. One simple tip is to vary the tones of green - as is seen in the natural world and you will then experience deep rest and peace in your home environment.

Black is not really a color - rather it is all colors absorbed together. Used in small amounts it will add sophistication, glamour, security and safety to the feel of your home. However it is easy to imagine how oppressive an all black room would feel - so again balance is required when using this color to add just the right amount to your color scheme. Black is best used as an accent color, to complement the brighter greens and reds and help them to stand out.

Oriental Design - Lighting

Lamp and candlelight are widely used in oriental design as the western style overhead, central ceiling light, is thought to be too intrusive. The Orientals see the interplay of light and shadow as an intricate dance and they relish in its complexities.

Oriental Design - Flooring

Natural flooring are best in an oriental style home and wood or stone tiles work better than carpet. Any floor coverings or rugs will be of natural materials and in complementary colors to the overall color scheme. Creams, beiges, browns, greens and reds are all good choices, and wool, silk or sea grass are all good choices of material.

Oriental Design - Accessories

Now we come to the choosing and placing of accent pieces or accessories. For many people, this stage of a room set design is the most fun but it is important, not to accessories too much as this will interfere with the flow of Chi energy. Choose a few, beautiful and valuable pieces for prominent display in your room set. This will serve to attract still more beautiful and valuable things into your life.

What is Acrylic Sheet?

An acrylic sheet is made from plastic which means forming or modeling something. In 1828 the compound urea, which is an ingredient of the urine of the mammals was produced artificially and plastic was formed for the first time. In 1843 acrylic acid was formed. These sheets came into use in 20th century. It is used for coating and laminating glass binders in the 1930's. The use of acrylic sheets is increased during the Second World War. It was used as a bullet resistant glazing in the war planes. It was useful because it could be fitted into the structural designs of war planes as the acrylic sheet is lighter but on the other hand very strong.

The acrylic sheet is vastly used to engrave pictures, as advertisement sheets, instruments, parts of instrument, lamp, decoration, airplane, automobile fittings, and medical instruments. It is hugely used in the field of art. Insulation material for electric gadgets, sign boards and various articles for education and cultural industry are also made from acrylic sheet. This sheet is useful as it is transparent and good weather resistance. This sheet is light in weight and safe in use as it is non toxic. It is used widely because it is very easy to process. As it is non-toxic and irrespective of glazing it is an ideal material for green house.

These kinds of sheets minimize the heat loss from the green house. They also make the green house able to stand in any weather condition. This sheet is also use as light diffusers in fluorescent lamps. Acrylic sheet is more durable than glass. So many people prefer to use this sheet in place of glass. This sheet is also more flexible than any other materials.

We can find even colored acrylic sheets. There are clear as well as frosted sheets. This sheet is also easy to clean. The most use of the sheet is in the field of art as it is quite lightweight. To frame a large art work it is the most suitable. An acrylic sheet prevents ultra violet rays from harming your pictures and the picture looks bright for days. It is also reduce the glare from light. The easy cleaning has made the sheet so popular. One can clean it easily with a cloth or paper towel. So the use of the sheet is so wide for its durability, flexibility, easiness to find, non toxic, environmental friendly and for its easiness to clean in no time.

Make Your Home Bright and Beautiful by Using Glass Tiles

Every homeowner loves to remodel and renovate their homes. By replacing obsolete and out-dated walls, floors and decor, you can almost get the same satisfaction as having an absolutely, fresh and new household. You do not necessarily have to shell a huge amount to give your house a face lift as there are simple ideas and methods to get wonderful end results. One of the sleekest ways to zing up a bathroom, kitchen, and patio or pool area is to install colorful sophisticated glass tiles.

Glass tiles come in a huge range of sizes and colors. You can select them from solid, rich and vibrant hues, to tiles made with a hint of sparkle. These tiles are not only high on attractive index, but they are durable as well. They are quick to clean and they last a lifetime once installed properly. These tiles are the ultimate choice for your kitchen especially if you're thinking of giving it a contemporary or sophisticated look. These provide a sparkling clean look that will surely bring in lots of light into the area. These tiles are durable as well and are not very hard to maintain contrary to what most people would think.

There are several types of glass tiles available in the market and the colors can vary from transparent to opaque. They get their colour through mixed pigments in molten glass during the manufacturing process. The color and shade permeate within the tile's body. During the firing method, a layer of pigment is fused to the surface of the tile. This makes the color of the tiles permanent and well-shielded against moisture. One particular batch of these tiles generally have uniform color.

Glass tiles have multiple advantages. It is moisture-proof which makes it apt for kitchen and bathroom area. It works best and is most popularly used on walls where it allows light to enter the area without the unwanted heat. It is absolutely aesthetic considering its variety of colors, so people usually create mosaics which serve as a centerpiece in the kitchen. It is equally good indoors or outdoors and with its non-permeable quality, endures moisture, heat, fire and ultraviolet rays. By installing Glass tiles, other surrounding structures are protected against sudden thermal variations.

Smalti is a type of glass tile made up of melted silica with sodium. Certain metals and metal oxides are used to stabilize the material before it is fired and cut. The fused varieties of these tiles are usually translucent in nature with a prominent opaque layer. The Sintered one's usually come in 1 to 3 square feet size. It is manufactured by pressing glass powder then heating to diffuse the particles. Terrazzo tiles involve a cast method using glass and concrete amalgam. Cast tiles have a layered appearance created by putting glass chunks into a type of mold. Slumped glass has a contoured or curved look.

Antique Stained Glass

One of the most beautiful additions you could make to your period home is with antique stained glass. Although beautiful stained glass pieces are commonly found in churches and other religious buildings, antique stain glass and leaded glass is also commonly found in vintage homes. Antique stained glass may be used in windows or skylights, and panels of it can be hung as a decorative element from windows or used in and around doors.

Antique stained glass panels are made of small-cut pieces of colored glass that are held together by lead strips and supported in a frame. The glass is carefully arranged to form unique and intricate patterns. Leaded glass uses lead instead of the traditional calcium in its composition, and the result is a very brilliant glass that reflects light very well. Leaded glass is what certain types of crystal is made from.

Antique stained glass windows come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Square and rectangular shapes are common, but stained glass pieces are also available in round and oval shapes as well. Antique stained glass panels may be used to adorn the upper portion of ribbon windows, which are often featured in Prairie, Craftsman and Modernistic-style homes. Antique leaded stained glass was also popular in use with Victorian-era architecture, including the Queen Anne style. In this type of home the glass might be featured in smaller panes surrounding a large pane of glass, or a patterned piece could be placed over a blank lower pane of glass.

Antique doors featuring panels in them, or sidelights around the main door could also be useful as an accent spot for some lovely antique stained glass panels. As you can imagine, stained glass from a vintage era is fairly rare because of its delicate nature, but pieces are available today for use in period homes.

The designs found in antique leaded stained glass pieces are as varied as the artists who made them. You might find beautiful geometric patterns, or floral garden motifs. Diamond-shapes are also used. A pattern might feature a coat of arms, or other symbol significant to its country of origin or period of time. Animals are often depicted in antique stain glass. The colors of glass available are wide ranging; you will experience brilliant reds and golds, vibrant greens and blues, all typically outlined carefully in black or dark-colored edging to make the piece as a whole read as the final complete design.

One of the best ways to experience the range of antique stained glass currently available is to look at online antique salvage stained glass merchants' websites, which usually feature color images of the pieces for sale.

Decorating Your Home by Using Artificial Flowers

In recent years artificial flowers have started to look real. It has now gotten to the stage where it's hard to tell the difference between fresh, real flowers and artificial flowers and plants. You have probably even noticed people in your home or at work trying to smell the lovely flowers, not knowing that they aren't real.

If your house was full of fake flowers and planets you wouldn't need to water of feed them all the time. The only bit of caring that they need is a bit of dusting and wiping down the leaves.

Of course though, the more real looking you want your flowers the more you will have to spend. If you pick up a artificial plant from your local shop it isn't going to look as good as one bought from a speciality shop.

You need to remember to buy some greens to go with your plastic flowers. The artificial greens will accent and set off your flower arrangement. There are many different shades of leaf to go for, from light greens to deep lush greens and everything in-between.

Fake flowers are not just a one trick pony though, they do more than simply sit and look good in a vase in your house. You can also use them for all different crafts too. They can be used to holiday wreaths and center pieces on your table too.

Today there is an infinite selection of flowers to choose from, there is every species you can think of. Clearly the more common choices can be found in most craft shops etc, but the more rare varieties need to be bought at a specialist.

There are some artificial flowers that can be washed rather than just wiped down. But don't go putting your plants in the washer! You can give the leafs and flowers a good wipe down with a gentle detergent if they are starting to go yellow and are becoming dusty. Silk flowers need need some extra care though, they are much more delicate than plastic flowers.

If you want to add some color to your home then artificial flowers are a great choice. They are a brilliant alternative to real and fresh flowers, which need more care and attention. They can last forever and it's really hard to tell any difference.

Green Decorating for Your Home Decorating

One way to keep your house more beautiful is to use green decor for your home. Aside from the natural beauty it brings to the house, it helps reduce waste problems for these products are made from recycled materials if not natural ones. There are actually many green decors that can suit anyone's personality and more importantly match one's home.

For a more refreshing look for your home, try to use decorations that are made from natural materials. Wood is one of the most commonly used materials for decorations. Wooden frames that come in its natural colors but with different designs would make good accents for modern homes. Wooden furniture like sofa sets would match well with plants. It gives a very natural feel that gives a very relaxing vibe. Aside from wood, other materials like colorful native cloths easily accentuates a room as a table topper. Since it is available in various colors and patterns, these materials can be matched to a house with modern design.

Another green décor idea for your home are glass decorations. Glass is a top favorite of most interior designers since it gives a very elegant style. Clear glass candleholders are stylish and can match any theme of a home. And since glass is a universal décor, it is used in almost all home design themes. Glass figurines make good displays in the living room. But glass jars with intricate designs is classic in kitchen counters.

Aside from these popular decors, some modern people prefer more modern decors for their homes that are eco-friendly as well. Even plastics can make good green home decors too as long as it is not processed in heat and are reused. Some people prefer to take some time to create their own decorations out of the materials that they already have in their storage. It is definitely one good way of lessening the clutter and showing off one's creativity too.

Using Metal Closet Rod

When building a bedroom cabinet for storing clothes, most of us want something sturdy that will last for a long time. After all, what we're storing in there are our personal belongings including valuable items such as jewelry.

When it comes to hanging clothes, we need to install a sturdy closet rod that can carry a lot of weight. Come to think of it, most of us don't just use this rod for hanging clothes but coats and thick jackets as well as other accessories including belts. What better material to choose then than the metal closet rod which is a great tool for organizing clothes.

Metal rods are more preferred by homeowners because of the elegant look they achieve. They can be made from stainless steel with a 1/16-inch thickness or brass depending on your personal preference. This material is durable, rust resistant, requires less maintenance and capable of carrying much weight especially when installed properly. They also come in different shapes, sizes (in diameter) and finishes. There are the round closet rods, telescoping rod, square and oval rod. The round type is available in one inch and 3/4 inch in diameter and in various finishes such as white, black, brass or chrome.

With metal closet rods, there's not much problem when looking for their other components. This is because metal end and center support and brackets are also widely available in the market today. The end supports are those attached to the closet's walls through the use of screws while the center support is the one that's installed in the middle of the rod and screwed to the cabinet's ceiling. This center support is required especially when a long closet rod is used.

If you wish to put a shelf in your closet, you can also use a type of bracket that serves two purposes. This is known as the shelf and closet rod bracket. With this tool, you can already have a support for your shelf and at the same time a support for your rod.

On another hand, you can also choose a rod bracket or support that uses a flange. This provides more security to your rod. Still another type to use is the ring support especially if you aim to install just a hanging type of closet rod.

There's also a new style of hanging clothes today and this is with the use of the innovative pull down closet rod. With this type of rod, the upper portion of your closet which is not often used will now be made useful. It has a 28-inch handle, an extension handle and it's adjustable to fit any size of closet. When using this, all you have to do is just pull out and won the rod. You can install this to the panels or the closet walls.

Now that you know the advantages of metal closet rods and the various styles available today on the market, you will have a better idea about what type to get for your own closet whether you're creating a new one or remodeling your existing closet.

Decorating Small Rooms

Not all of us are able to have the wide open spacious rooms we would so like to have. This does not mean that you cannot still make the most of your smaller space and add the illusion of a roomier atmosphere. Add some fresh paint and new crown molding and you are all set. You can achieve this by just simply buying a how to book or video. Adding crown molding can make your small room appear larger because it will pull the eyes up and you will not focus on the size of the room. Hang pictures a little higher than eye level as the will work to draw the eyes upward also.

Whether it is a living room or a small bedroom you would like to place furniture in, there are a few factors you must consider to make the room look as open as possible. Here are a few tips that may help you to "expand" your living space.

Depending on the layout of the room and the number of walls you can arrange the furniture against. You will want to see what you have to going for you. Many times you will find that due to windows, closets or any other feature that makes it near impossible to place furniture against, you may only have one focal wall to work with. This begins the challenge of having to re-arrange entertainment units, TVs, dressers or cabinets, end tables, chairs, or beds, depending on what room you are trying to expand.

Getting rid of all clutter or accessories that are not necessary will help a great deal. The more floor space you can make visible, the more the room will appear less crowded and overall more spacious. Do not place furniture near any walkways or entrances. Place all large furniture along the wall with the most open space and work your room around it. If you have a small room, placing one couch, a couple end tables, and a small arm chair may be all the furniture you need to create a cozy yet modest looking room. If possible take any un-necessary items such as kid’s toys, book shelves, or a coffee table and place them in a more spacious room. Once you have arranged your furniture around a large item as a focal point, you can also use cool, soft shades of paint to add that extra feeling of comfort and openness.

Luxury Bedding

What defines luxury? For everything, there is a different answer, and it's not always clear cut. In fact, many times, luxury is different for different people. In a car, some people feel luxury is simply big, soft seats. Some people have to have a lot power at their disposal. Others want a lot of high tech gadgets. Many people feel that a luxury car is a combination of all these factors. So what is luxury bedding?

What is a Duvet?

The traditional stuffing for the duvet is down from the Eider Duck, called Eiderdown. The duvet was not invented with luxury in mind, but rather to keep warm using something nearby. Now that duvets can be found all over the world, those still made with Eiderdown definitely fall under the category of luxurious bedding. A duvet generally replaces comforters and blankets, and is then itself covered since the Eiderdown is difficult to clean.

What Makes Luxury Bed Sheets?

Bed sheets are normal, but not all are luxury bed sheets. There are several different ways to measure quality in bed sheets, though only a few are used everywhere. This is thread count, as well as the threads' country of origin. Choosing your luxury bedding should involve more research than just those terms, but they're the two you'll see most often advertised. The best, softest luxury bed linens don't necessarily have the highest thread count, or come from Egypt.

Matelass

Although sometimes marketed as a luxury bed linen all its own, it's traditionally not. In fact, this French word actually means "padded". When referring to luxury bedding sets, it generally means a hand quilted, thick luxury bed linen which, ironically, has no padding within it at all. Sometimes there are designs quilted into the linen, but sometimes it's just a generic quilted pattern. They're usually 100% cotton, though some Matelass is made of other things.

Coverlet

For the most part, the coverlet is purely decorative, and often sits atop a duvet or other thick covers. Besides being used on a luxury bed, the coverlet can also be found being used a throw blanket, or even a picnic blanket. They are generally quite thin, and are rarely suitable for keeping warm. Although coverlets have been around for a while, they have been largely replaced by duvet covers in most luxury bedding ensembles. The coverlet is still used by some, though, and can be found in a wide variety of designs and patterns. They can be purchased individually, or found in a luxury bedding set.

How to Decorate a Sunroom

Consider the construction style of the sunroom

Different people like to construct their sunrooms differently depending on their likes and creativity. Some like to have the sunrooms in cathedral shape, while some like to have a curved which is a popular in many homes, while others like to have it in the conservatory style. Some sunrooms have interiors that are made of just wood.

To provide a natural and earthy feel to the sunroom you can use rattan and wicker furniture items, which are stained in a number of earthy colors. You can choose a variety of wooden furniture in colors of your choice, and which help in adding appeal to your sunroom.

Sunrooms can be used for different purposes:

One of the extensions of your living space is the sunroom. Sunrooms are often used for different purposes. Some prefer to use it as a dormer or an attic and place a number of items like a good music system, different types of handing on the wall, different colored rugs on the floor, flowering pots, and creepers, etc. in the sunroom. Some enthusiasts prefer to use the sunroom as a bathroom which gives the sunroom the feel of a spa with different arrangements like the tub, flowering plants in pots, carpets, rugs, beautiful decorations and also aromatic candles in the bathroom.

If you are using the sunroom as it is, you can decorate it with different types of flower vases, natural as well as artificial plants, decorate show pieces, small water fountains, racks for keeping decorative things, etc. With beautiful wall paper you can cover the walls of the sunroom and give it a nice fresh look whenever required. Unwinding from the daily stress can be done in the relaxing atmosphere of the sunroom. You can have your own space and time for yourself while you relax in the sunroom. Decorating the sunroom in the perfect way will help you to enjoy its atmosphere to the maximum.

Using Wood Mini Blinds to Improve Your Home Decorating

Wood mini blinds have grown increasingly popular over the years because of the many benefits it brings. If you want to add a touch of coziness, elegance and warmth to your home then you should look no further than wooden blinds. These blinds also give good insulation, helping you regulate the amount of light that you want to go through your window. In addition to giving a simple yet classy look to any room, these blinds can provide the privacy that you need. This material is so versatile that you can have it painted and stained in a number of different ways so you can achieve the decorating style that you want. They come in different styles, shades and colors in a wide array of models so it's relatively easy for you to find a good match for your home décor. A lot of interior decorators agree that wooden blinds are perfect for most homes and offices.

Wood mini blinds will look great as a stand alone window treatment. When choosing the perfect wooden blinds for your home, you should consider its aesthetic appeal, its ability to control light, the privacy it offers, ease of operation, and its insulating value. Although this type of blind is more expensive than other blinds made from aluminum or vinyl, most people still go for it because of its natural elegance and charm.

Below are some of the advantages of having wooden blinds:

1. Nothing can beat the natural beauty and appeal of wood. Wood has a sophisticated and visual charm that is unparalleled by other types of window blinds. Its elegant look will definitely add value to your room.
2. Although wooden blinds are more expensive than those blinds made in aluminum or vinyl, they are durable and have the ability to last for many years providing that you care and maintain them the proper way. Aluminum and vinyl blinds are more likely to break and bend, so you can expect to look for their replacement after a few years of use.
3. Wooden blinds are available in a wide array of choices in various shades, hues, stain and color schemes so you won't have a hard time looking for an ideal one that will match your home theme. These blinds also come in neutral wood tones from dark to light.
4. With wooden blinds, you can definitely save on energy since they help a lot in insulating your home from both cold and hot temperature and weather. Windows can let cold or hot air out pretty easily and wooden blinds can really work well in insulating your home from any harsh weather conditions. Other types of window blinds cannot offer the same degree of insulation.
5. If you want your wood mini blinds to show your unique personality and taste or if you have unusually sized windows, you can have your blinds custom made. All you need to do is get the correct measurements of your window and you can expect your blinds to fit like a glove.

Decorating Your Home with Country Style

Create a country motif with charm, elegance and stateliness to an otherwise ordinary looking structure. Outdoor decorating has become a great way to improve the value of your home or business. Because it is the first thing people see when they drive up. Let your buildings natural architectural design dictate how to enhance your home/business unique features. Decorators recommend creating a bold statement with a strong focal point.

When it comes to decorating your home or business, sometimes it is the little things that get noticed. An interesting, well-placed accent can give your home a whole new look. Adding a cupola gives a touch of elegance that breaks up the flat line of a roof. Cupolas add a sense of tradition and country charm along with drawing attention to their eye catching detail.

Curb appeal involves adding color and layers, making an attractive presentation—one with perfect charm and character. Cupolas have architectural features that create impressive, visual character and adds distinction, country style. Creating curb appeal, you are not only satisfying your own needs with the outstanding look, you are creating and effect that your neighbors will just love.

Although, some of us may not know the word cupola immediately, we know cupolas when we see them. They are the small building on top of a larger one. Their designs are unique and are intentionally planned and constructed to capture the character of traditional early American architecture. They have graced the rooflines of homes, barns, and churches for centuries, most often placed in the middle of the building at the highest point. The early history of cupolas was a pseudo-tower, and served several purposes from a covered light source, to added ventilation, to a statement of style.

The Empire State Building and the United States Capitol have a cupola on their roof providing an architectural accent plus a dramatic exterior. The earliest domes were made of stone. The weight of the structure was one of the major challenges. The earliest masonry dome, the Pantheon, was built by the Roman Emperor Hadrian. It was built to reflect his power. The interior is a perfect circle in which the diameter and height are exactly the same.

The domes on top many government buildings, and churches are cupolas. Not all cupolas are domes. It can be an excellent accent point, a small, decorative tower on top any home or business. Gazebos can be cupolas. Cupolas can have weathervanes, flag poles or crosses on them to provide that finishing touch. These architectural accents add old world charm to catch the eye.

Each hand-made cupola is carefully scaled and proportioned to compliment the particular building it will adorn, both in size and detailing. Structurally, a cupola can't be just tacked on. It has to be well integrated into its building. It is very important that it is of proper dimensions. Choosing a cupola that is too small for the size of your home/business will make it appear less like the cupola you desire and more like a bird house.

These architectural accents can be decorative, functional to ventilate, or windowed to provide sky light. Some cupolas are large enough to be a full sized room. From a simple addition to an entire top floor where it offers a scenic view, solitude, a peaceful place to retreat and read a book. Cupolas give your home a unique, whimsical appearance.

Whatever your preference, there is a cupola for you. They are sure to add an elegant touch to your beautiful home/business. Your attention to detail will guarantee your home's first impression to others---a stunning look that feels expensive. Be creative----have fun----get inspired!

Forest Decorating Style in Your Home

Perhaps no interior decorating style evokes the same type of nostalgia and romance as cabin decor. With its combination of rich wood pieces and natural milieu, cabin decorating can "spruce" up your home or vacation house in ways that most other styles simply cannot match. Still, creating a cabin-style atmosphere indoors is not as naturally simple as it might appear. To get the most out of your decor, here are a few tips to keep in mind.

It goes without saying that planning any style is easier before the house is actually built, but this is perhaps most true with cabin decor. The best way to create that foresty feel is to use exposed wood as paneling, ceilings, and floors while employing stone for the fireplace or entryways. However, if you are already past that point, there is still many other options involved.

For one, lighting can make a big difference between a typical style and a rustic atmosphere. You can create cabin-esque lighting in your home by using lots of lamps on end tables in wood colors and styles or by employing metal wall sconces and chandeliers of dark colors with a homemade look.

Most decorators also try to incorporate images of natural wildlife in their furniture and accessories. This can range from animals carved into lampposts or sown into throw rugs to leaves and trees displayed on the bedding. Of course, over-emphasizing this feature can turn your cabin decor into a wilderness of kitsch, but tasteful, subtle uses of these designs can create that woodsy feel. Other typical fabric patterns include plaid and flannel.

By decorating your home with a cabin environment in mind, you can create a warm, relaxing atmosphere that you and your guests will love for years to come.

Try Down Bedding to Create a Stylish and High Class Bed Room

Stop sleeping in average or below average comfort with no style whatsoever. Instead, buy down bedding and dress your bed to impress guests and sleep in luxury. Most people avoid down bedding because they think it's too expensive but when you take into account the benefits and lower costs available, you're going to change your mind.

Down comforters are so comfortable you might melt. Obviously they perform the functions a normal comforter would but the difference is they are usually much lighter, softer, and provide much better warmth - even when it's freezing outside. In addition, most goose down comforters are beautifully made with fine stitching and square patterns which adds to the elegance and style of any bedroom.

Of course, matching down pillows are highly recommended as well. The pillows are more of a function asset as they are available in different types and sizes based on how you sleep and the firmness level you enjoy resting your head on. High quality goose down pillows are firm, comfortably soft and bounce back to full form once you get up.

You may also want to add a down blanket to the mix for added warmth or complementary layered style. Down blankets are less expensive than comforters and can give you a warm stand in until you have the money to buy a complete down bedding set.

When buying these luxurious products, you'll want to keep an eye on fill power and thread count. Thread count amounts to how tight the material is and prevents feathers from escaping. Fill power is an indication of warmth and the ability to bounce back to regular shape and fluffiness.

Try to Apply French Country Decorating Style in Your Home

French Country decorating style finds its origins in the scenic villages and countryside of the Provence region of southeastern France. The look is casual and inviting. This decorating style has a rustic feel.

Colors for the French Country decorating style are taken from the countryside. Typical colors include soft foamy greens, bright yellows and golds, rust, red, blues, pinks and lavenders. Shades of red are dramatic in this decorating style. A combination of brilliant red with sunflower gold or cranberry red with dark golden mustard are popular color schemes. Also, burnt orange and copper, blue and yellow are popular choices. Mix and matching of colors and prints are often done.

Fabrics that are used in French Country design often have a repeating pattern. Countryside scenes, flowers, birds and nature scenes are used. The background of the fabric is often a neutral white or beige. The print is often red, blue, green, brown or black. Mixing fabrics such as plaids and prints are acceptable in this decor.

The furniture for this style is casual and practical. The furniture can be simple or elegant in design. It can be rustic wood, fine hardwoods or scrolled iron. The furniture often includes accents of iron, leather or tile. Furniture is sturdy and basic. For the dining room a large plank style dining table with caned chairs or benches are often used.

Accents and accessories for this decor include wrought iron, wheat shafts, lavender wreaths and sprigs, roosters, distressed metal, tapestries, ceramics and earthenware. For the kitchen, the copper pans are often displayed on a pot rack overhead. Over-sized planters, rustic copper vessels, french cooking oils in containers are just a few items for the kitchen. For the living room and bedrooms a french tapestry or iron wall decor is often used. Tapestries with earthy colors, rich green, burgundy and deep golds.

Roosters are a common theme in French Country design. They motif is not only used in the kitchen, but elsewhere in the house.

No French Country decor would be complete without flowers. Lavender is used a lot, but any flowers can be used. Flowers and plants just add the finishing touch to this style. Over-sized containers and metal containers are often used for the flowers.

This style of decorating is a really beautiful decorating style. A French Country Style home is warm, beautiful and inviting.

How to Keep Your Home Warm in Winter

Winter season can be tough in many ways. The most difficult thing in winter is to keep your home warm, when there is freezing cold outside. Here are some efficiency tips for keeping your home warm in winter.

Inspect all the area around your house to check if all the windows are properly shut; storm windows should be down and latched. A lit incense stick can be used to check for drafts. The big amount of heat escapes from your home through these drafts, so cover them in a clear plastic or with a towel, or an old t-shirt.

Inspect all doors and seal them if you find drafts in door frame or under the door. To cover drafts, you can use weather stripping or a door sweep. It is better to close rooms that are not in use. It stops the air circulation and prevents heat loss. Magnetic register covers can also be used to shut off unused room registers. This is a good way to keep warmth in the rooms you want. The heater works more efficiently and saves you money.

It is wise to put up sets of heavy curtains; it will block drafts on both windows and doors. You can open these curtains during the day time, when the sun is shining, and draw them at night or when the weather is cloudy to keep the heat in. The curtains can be purchased from the market, or you can also opt to make your own. These curtains should have insulated backing to prevent heat escaping from home.

It is also great to dress up with warm clothes. Cover up your head and feet, because most of the heat escapes from your body through these parts. Wearing a winter coat inside home is not a good idea as it gets cold very quickly.

Cooking at home is always a good idea, and in winters, it helps to keep your home warm, as steam from cooking raises moister level in your home. Cook anything like a soup, make tea or coffee, bake bread or cookies; this will keep your kitchen warm. It is wise to leave the oven door after cooking to permit the heat to spread into your house. To make your thyroid and metabolism function properly and keep you warm, you need to eat healthy fats, so cook such stuff in winters.

You can also light candles in some parts of your home to keep it warm, but do not leave them unattended. Candles can be cheaply purchased from any shopping store, and it is an easy way to keep snug at home. It is good to take hot shower in the winter. It has two benefits; one it makes you warm in a quick time and other it raises moisture level in the house.

In the start of winter season, you should also check the heating system in your home if it is efficiently working. A heating pump or furnace loses its life after every year, and in time of about 12 years, they need replacement. The new system gives you more benefits like efficiency, safety and energy saving.

Fitting a Home Office When You Have No Space

So you live in small house or apartment and now you need a home office either because you are studying, or starting your own business or even have a flexible working arrangement with your boss. The issue is, of course, where are you going to fit this new home office? Very few of us have entire empty rooms waiting for us to find a use for them as a home office.

The good news is that, if you are running the typical computer-based business you really don't need much that much room. In fact with a laptop - you don't even need a dedicated desk area - the kitchen table of the couch will do! For most people tough a dedicated work area is a must - so where to find this.

Re-purposing the spare bedroom is probably the most common solution to adding a home office. Either getting rid of the bed or replacing it with a folding sofa or even a bunk platform will probably give you enough space for ample work room. The addition of an Internet connection, possibly a phone line and good lighting and you are all set to work!

Another option is to take an under-utilized space and re-purpose it. The teenagers never use the basement games room anymore? Sell the pool table and reclaim the space. Eldest son moved out but retained their bedroom "just in case", and so they don't have to move all their clutter - provide free moving boxes.

Alternatively reuse a corner. An under stairs area can convert to a usable office cupboard - or even the corner of a landing or the garage. If you are setting up an office in an area used by others make sure you include some way to hide the space - and to avoid small items - like pens - disappearing. An office behind a cupboard door can be very practical - and when visitors come they won't even know that it’s there.

If space is at premium also look to your equipment: laptops take up far less space than a conventional computer - and these days cost very little more. Also a modern thin-screen monitor is much easier to fit in a corner than the now old-fashioned CRT monitors. If you need a fax, printer and scanner - buy a multifunction unit which will do all these functions in the same space as just one printer. Look for a wireless modem and wireless printer to keep cable clutter to the minimum.

Decorate Your Bedroom by Using Floral Duvet Cover Set

Being single can be quite lonely at times especially if you just got out of a relationship. You miss those butterflies you use to get when you were dating and the feeling of being loved by someone. The best thing anyone can do is take their mind off the fact they are single and look at it in a positive way. Here is just a fun way to look at it with the help of popular bedding called the"due-vay" cover. This type of bedding is known to bring a smile on anyone’s face. Hope you enjoy:

A floral duvet cover set is the best thing any single man or woman can own. When you purchase duvet bedding, you can rest assure knowing that it is yours and only yours and you have the receipt to prove it! You do not have to worry about anyone else trying to take it away from you or getting any strange phone calls in the middle of the night claiming that your duvet set is not yours. There will not be a smell of another's perfume or cologne on it. and you won’t have to worry about it getting old and smelly.

It will love staying clean and fresh. Whenever you need a shoulder to cry on, it will be there to wipe your tears away and make you feel all better. It will not push you away whenever you want to cuddle and it will always stay by your side as long as you let it. A good duvet cover will be with you forever. If ever you come home late from work, you know it will be home waiting for you and not out partying. It will always welcome you with open arms. A floral duvet will look as beautiful as the first day you laid your eyes on it. If ever you get tired or bored of looking at it, you can just simply flip it over and get a new design. It will feel like your with a new duvet cover set all over again.

Decorate Your Wall by Using Wood Candle Wall Sconces

Wood candle wall sconces are great and economical way to do a variety of things in your home. Though you may be concerned about using wood near a lit flame, rest assured that following a few safety guidelines you and your home will be completely safe using these often handmade artistic pieces. You will want to make sure to follow a few simple guidelines when picking out wooden candle sconces so that they make a proper fit in your home.

Wooden sconces can be used to create mood lighting, for reading purposes, or as standalone featured items. You can use several at once in order to create mood lighting. Candle light puts off considerably less light than an electric bulb. As such, using several of these particularly near the corners of your room, will create a warm glowing atmosphere. Candle light is also good for reading purposes provided the light is coming from behind you while you are reading so that the light reflects directly off the pages. If you find a sconce that is large enough or that has enough detail, you can use one as a stand-alone piece in the center of a wall in order to attract attention.

Fire safety is always a concern when using candles. Sconces traditionally use tea lights or candles as a light source. When using any type of open flame, be certain to place the wooden candle holder in an area that is unlikely to cause the sconce to get bumped into. You will want to set them at least had level or above. Be sure to avoid using lit candles and rooms occupied by adolescents. Other than that, you may want to make sure to pay attention to the fact that wax drips and can do a wonderful job of creating headaches if you have bare carpet directly underneath a candle. The same applies for candles that are placed too close to a wall or that dangerously lean in.

Decorating Your House to Make It as a Home

Making a house a home - sounds like a simple concept, but it can take a great deal to accomplish just that. Everyone has their own theory about what makes a house a home, some say it's the people living in or visiting the house, some say it's the pets, and still others say it's all about the interior. Home decor can indeed help turn a simple, ordinary house into your life-long home.

What a person fills their house with reflects who they are. Some prefer traditional looks while some like the sleek edges and simple designs of contemporary or modern styles. Quite often, what kinds of decor someone has within their home is a sign of who they are, as such it is of utmost importance to find the right kind of decor to fit your individual style.

There are many different facets of home decor. Quite often when given the term people tend to revert to thinking about explicitly furniture, however there is a great deal more covered in the realm of home decor than just furniture. Patters, shapes, sizes, placement, and colors all go into creating furniture and if even one of those categories is "wrong" to an individual, they will be deterred from that piece. The same holds true for so many different types of decor as well such as pictures, plants, and other various furnishings.

Form or function? An important question asked when picking out home decor. Would you rather have something that functions, for example a very comfortable couch, or something that looks better, such as a couch that is immensely uncomfortable while being very trendy? Whichever you choose is indicative of your own personal style.

Whichever styles of home decor you personally choose; those choices undoubtedly make what was once just an ordinary, generic house into your home.

Four Tips to Liven Up a Boring Hallway

Some people find it really easy to decorate the main rooms in their home (like the dining room and the bedrooms), but when it comes to a hallway they are completely lost on what to do. If you find yourself looking at a very boring hallway day after day, there are some ways to easily liven it up.

Liven Up a Boring Hallway with a Set of Pictures

One easy way to liven up a hallway in your home is to hang a set of pictures on the wall. If it is a smaller hallway, be sure that the pictures are smaller so that they do not overpower the wall. These pictures can be photographs of the family and loved ones or they can be pieces of art. Arrange then in the order that you like that fits the style you are going for in the home.

Liven Up a Boring Hallway with a Small Table

If you have a slightly larger hallway you can always add a small end table or nightstand to the hallway. Place it flush against the wall in between a set of doors on the one side. Add some small décor item such as a vase of flowers, a coffee table book of art, or a candle. Look for an interesting table that adds some style to the hallway but does not take up too much space. You still want to be able to comfortably pass through the hallway with the table there.

Liven Up a Boring Hallway with Molding or Trim

Adding molding or decorative trim to a hallway, even one on the smaller side, can be a great way to liven it up. You can choose from things such as a chair rail that runs in the middle lower region of the wall or choose ceiling trim that is placed between the walls and the ceiling. Paint the trim or molding a complimentary color that stands out so that it is noticeable and adds some character to the space. If you decide to go with the chair rail in the hallway you can add even more style by painting the top and bottom halves of the wall different colors. For example, the top could be cream and the bottom could be a darker tan color to add some contrast.

Liven Up a Boring Hallway with an Interesting Light Fixture

You can also liven up the hallway without even using the walls of the area. Find a unique and interesting light fixture and use that for some attention in the room. A light fixture that hangs down is a wise choice if you are looking to make a statement with the fixture. There are hundreds of different light fixtures that you can choose from to add some appeal to your hallway as it all depends on your own personal style and taste.

Don't let your boring hallway drag you down anymore. Instead, decorate it with one of these simple ideas and you can have an appealing and stylish hallway that matches the rest of your home.