Saturday, February 21, 2009

Enlighten Your Home For a Lesser Load

Author: Terry Henman

Short of redecorating once a fortnight, the most visually impacting and cost effective way of creating adaptable space in your home is strategic use of lighting. What was once a mere afterthought, given consideration only out of necessity, lighting is now rightly recognized as a key feature to rank alongside the brand new settee or the fitted kitchen. Proper use of lighting can add drama and life, it can soothe or invigorate, in other words it is powerful enough to determine our moods. Lighting floods every inch of a room in whatever you want- a summer day, an gentle glow, a starry night, a spotlight to aim at anything you please. Can your settee do all of this?



A centrally placed pendant which gives only the option of solar flare bright or pitch black night, no longer meets the needs of the modern homeowner. A far more sensible option is to install spot lights over the main areas of a room or where specific tasks are undertaken (e.g. kitchen work surfaces, breakfast bar, settees, paintings or doorways). The spotlights should be fitted with the ability to be switched on or off independently and a dimmer switch should be used in place of traditional one. Not only will spotlights lead the eye around the room, directing attention to the areas you want to be seen (and away from areas you might not!) but they will help define separate areas therefore making your room appear larger. The dimmer switches will allow complete control over the mood of your home meaning the same light can provide a reading light, an ambient mood or a romantic setting.



Although highly adaptable, ceiling spotlights alone cannot make an area truly multifunctional. Mid and low level lighting such as plinth lamps , stick lamps and- for the more adventurous- floor-set up-lighting, all add another dimension to the atmosphere of a room and can instantly transform a space. Table and floor lamps are much less formal and intrusive than conventional ceiling lighting and help create intimacy by effectively lowering the height of a room. Floor-set up-lighting (basically spotlights upside down) creates much more of a bar vibe and transforms a room by lighting it from an unusual position. Again the effect is much less overpowering than ceiling lighting and when placed along the perimeter of a room, they allow you to navigate your way around without spoiling nights in with a movie!



Remember, it is not solely during evening hours that the lighting you choose will have an effect on the look of your home. Even when switched off, a well chosen floor lamp can add style and interest to an otherwise minimal space. For example, an original or modern remake of a design classic such as the Arco lamp by iconic 1960's designer Verner Panton, immediately creates an air of retro cool and provides a striking focal point for a room. Alternatively, a chandelier (for those lucky enough to have high ceilings) placed over a dining area adds decadence to any dinner party and adds to the sense of occasion whilst lowering the light and helping avoid that cavernous feel.


Lighting Solutions

Creativity is key- be brave.

About the Author:
Terrys Fabrics retail in curtains, fabrics and floor lamps.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/enlighten-your-home-for-a-lesser-load-784380.html

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

How To Make Your Kitchen Look Great

Author: R Govindan

The kitchen space is of primary décor interest in every household. It plays host to guests and friends all around the year. Few appliances like wooden cabinets, stainless steel instruments and granite countertops can push the simple tone of every kitchen and give it a classy look. Marble countertops are made from natural stone blocks quarried from various regions. Granite and marble are natural stones which are formed due to high temperatures below the crust of
the earth. Hence kitchen countertops made form the above material can withstand chemical abuse from staining and thermal abuse. Sealed granite counters are resistant to fading and discoloration.

Marble countertops are incorporated in spaces like bathrooms, fireplace and the pubs. The widespread use of granite countertops has made them more affordable. Granite slabs can be custom made and rendered with seamless verities. They can also be used in the kitchen as the pastry slabs. Granite color is unique and it blends well with aesthetic aspirations of modern architects and designers. It can be a collage of the darkest hues. Kitchen countertops are available in subtle variations of colors and styles. Black and blue granite counters are considered the classiest ones amongst them. Brown and beige kitchen counters can work with a host of appliances and designs. The dark ones work perfectly well with the light colored constructions and vice versa. The color of granite or marble counter should approximately match with that of the kitchen cabinet. The granite flooring for newly built homes is an excellent value addition. The color of the granite slab should be a close match for the overall design appeal. Granite countertops are available in many designs and the companies proudly display a wide spectrum of choices to their customers. You can access the information about the origin and names on their websites.

Marble counters are metamorphic rocks in their composition. They contain calcium carbonate and a variety of minerals. They can also be used with the surface tiles and on the windowsill. The high quality finish of natural stone can add opulence and luxury to your furnishings. Granite countertop is an excellent purchase from the home buyer’s point of view. Granite counters are natural and safe on the environment. The inclusion of natural stone countertops could enhance the green value of the kitchen space. Marble countertops with professional sealing look new even after decades. Natural stone counters are resistant to microbial growth of molds and
mildew.

Go ahead and make your kitchen look great!

About the Author:

Marble City Company is the leading marble, granite kitchen countertops installation and fabrication company in the Bay Area, California.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/kitchens-articles/how-to-make-your-kitchen-look-great-778895.html

834 Kitchen Quick Tips

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

7 Home Decoration Secrets You Would Want to Know

Author: Jessica Ackerman

We always want our homes to be perfect. That is understandable since our home is our abode, our personal sanctuary, the place we look forward to go to after a whole day of stressful work. This is why, one of the most important things a homeowner has to do is to decorate his or her home in such a way that it will be a nice and relaxing escape. This article reveals top 10 home decoration secrets that you surely would want to know.



1. Visualizing is the key



Do not simply make an exact replica of the living room you found on the home interior magazine. Visualize on your own how you want your home to look like, how you want home decors like your wall plaques and paintings to be hung on the wall. Visualization of each room will make it easier for you to do your planning and decoration.



2. Start with a focal point



Any veteran interior designer knows how important it is to start with a focal point in any room so that other home décor items will flow easily around it. It is always a great idea to select an item that gives a big impact like the fireplace, a piano or a sofa.



3. Colors have psychological effect



Colors are important design elements not only because it determines the ambience and feel of the room, and gives the illusion of space but also because they have psychological effects on people.



For example, blue, which is the least appetizing color is not a good shade to paint in your dining area or kitchen. Meanwhile, light and pastel colors, which can relax the mind, are a good idea for the living room. Make sure that the colors you choose complement well with each other.



4. A theme makes it easier to achieve unity and harmony



A décor theme not only makes home decoration a lot easier but is also important because it reflects the homeowner’s personal taste and style. Your theme can be classic, modern, nautical, tropical, European, Asian or whatever you can think of.



Buy furniture and home accessories that match the theme that you have chosen. For example, if the theme of your home is contemporary, modern metal wall plaques would be a great addition while if you have a coastal theme, you might as well go for nautical wall art.



5. Clutter can ruin even the nicest home decoration



Get rid of everything that you do not need or hardly ever use and neatly store them in the storage room. Even if you have the most expensive or most gorgeous home decor, all these are useless if your room is filled with clutter.



6. Lighting is just as important as furniture



Lighting is important because of two things. First, it illuminates the room and allows people to do the things they need to do. Second, it creates an ambience and feel of the room. Because of this, you need to choose the proper kind of lighting, which will make you achieve both objectives. Lamp and fluorescent are great for general and task lighting while candles and smaller lamps are ideal for accent lighting.



7. Strive to achieve a balance between form and function



Form is just as important as function and because of that, it is necessary to achieve a balance between the two when buying furniture or decorating your home. To put it simply, you must be able to decorate your home in such a way that it will be both practical and beautiful.



We all know that home decoration is not as easy as we want it to be. However, it is also true that we do not need a doctorate degree on interior decoration to get the job done right. With a dash of creativity, resourcefulness and patience, we can have a home that looks like one of those featured in interior designing magazines.

About the Author:
This article was written by Jessica Ackerman and provided by WallDecorandHomeAccents.com, a site featuring unique modern wall decor and wall decor.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/7-home-decoration-secrets-you-would-want-to-know-777481.html

Principles Of Home Decoration With Practical Examples

Saturday, February 14, 2009

Stair Handrails – the ‘beautiful’ Guards

Author: Editor-123

Handrails may not seem a bright topic for discussion initially, but it’s only after you see some creative handrail designs that you look up to your handrail in disappointment. As a quality stairway adds elegance and charm to your home, so does a quality handrails add charm to stairs and thus your home.


The main purpose of a handrail is to support and protect, but there’s no harm in this protective support structure being attractive. It’s in a way, similar to having a ‘handsome’ bodyguard.


Popular handrails


During its early days, the most common types of handrails in use were the ones made from pipes. These served their basic purpose of protection and support, but were dull and unattractive. Times have changed and now, one can choose from a slew of options, which includes handrails made of wood, iron, steel, aluminum and glass.


Each type of handrail has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Metal handrails may be strong, but they are bulky too. Alloy handrails resolve this problem as they aren’t bulky and are yet sturdy enough. Handrails made from wood add an aesthetic charm to the living space. Glass handrails on the other hand, makes the stairs look sleeker.


Recommendations and considerations for choosing handrails


If you need handrails for your office space, then you must follow established codes specifying dimensions and heights. Although there are a variety of handrails with their own set of pros and cons, smart choices are always fruitful. Stainless steel handrails may be a great choice for outdoors, given in its resistance for corrosion whereas glass handrails may be good for a stylish living or work space or business space (like a restaurant). If you are going for a rustic style, look no further than wood handrails.

About the Author:

The article is contributed by a professional content writer, having experiences of working in different industries. For further information on Stair Handrail and Stair Railing please visit http://www.stairsupplies.com/

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/furniture-articles/stair-handrails-the-beautiful-guards-770127.html

Friday, February 13, 2009

Shopping For Furniture and Home Accessories: The Ultimate Guide

Author: Jessica Ackerman

Shopping for home furniture and home accessories can be tedious task if you do not know a thing about it. On the other hand, if you know what you want and what you need, shopping can be an exciting and fun adventure. If you are thinking of doing some furniture or home accessory shopping, here are some important tips to keep in mind:



Decide What You Need



First, you need to know the things that you need to buy. Put these things down in writing so that you do not forget anything. It is not advisable to get rid of all your furniture and replace everything with new ones. That is not only impractical but also unnecessary.



Look around your house and see what kinds of furniture or home accessory you really need. For example, if your sofa is already uncomfortable to sit on, then it is time to buy a new one. But if you just want to replace your durable dining table just to take advantage of the discount sale at the furniture store, that is not a sensible thing to do.



When deciding which ones to buy, do not forget to measure the space where you will put the new furniture while keeping mind that you will need ample space between it and the other pieces for free flow of people traffic in the room.



Choose a General Style



A general style for your home furniture is necessary to keep everything in sync. Otherwise, you will end up having a messy and confusing design that will not enable to you to sit down and relax. The five major styles you can choose from include



1. Casual - earth tones and materials like oak, pine, ash and maple woods (overstuffed sofas and casual tables and chairs)



2. contemporary - bold colors, sharp lines, metal and glass (contemporary metal wall art and metal wall sculptures)



3. country - rustic designs with floral prints, painted woods and soft cushions



4. traditional - antiques and antique styles of furniture made of woods like mahogany



5. eclectic - ethnic or artisan decorative ornaments and furniture



By knowing what kind of theme you prefer would make it easier for you to buy furniture. Now, if your home or the room you are decorating already has a theme, then just buy furniture or home accessories according to this theme.



Consider your Lifestyle



Look at your family's lifestyle and stick to furniture that will complement it. For instance, if you have many kids and pets in the house, it is not a good idea to invest on a white silk sofa or a white leather barcalounger.



Get Inspiration



Look at interior design magazines, talk to interior decorators, search the Internet and read books on this topic. Study about home designing so it will be easier for you to find pieces of furniture and home accessories that will suit your preferences and taste.



Set Your Budget



Set a budget and stick to it. This ensures that you do not spend more that you can afford. Buying new furniture or a contemporary metal wall art does not have to mean breaking the bank.



Go for Durability and Quality



Make sure that the furniture you buy will last a long time with you and the family. Buying cheap brands that are also cheap in quality will do you no good. Sometimes spending more for quality can save you more in the long run.



Decorating your home with new furniture and accessories is truly a fun way to spruce up your abode.

About the Author:
This article was written by Jessica Ackerman and provided by WallDecorandHomeAccents.com, a site featuring unique wall sculptures and wall art.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/shopping-for-furniture-and-home-accessories-the-ultimate-guide-769390.html

The Compact Sketchbook of Home Accessories

Monday, February 9, 2009

Tips For Creating Antique Bathrooms to Suit Your Budget

Author: Niall Roche

The bathroom is usually seen as the most practical room in the house as well as being a room for people to escape from modern life in. This means that your bathroom has to be functional so that you can keep yourself clean but also give you a sense of serenity when you need it; in the case of winding down after a hard day and just needing some "me" time. Some people don't always like the clinical look of modern bathrooms and for those of you who don't you can always go for the antique effect in your bathroom.



You don't have to do a total overhaul to get that antique look in your bathroom. You don't have to be an antique expert either when it comes to down to it. A total novice can create an antique bathroom without too much effort. With a little imagination, you can easily turn your bathroom into a space of old-fashioned quaintness.



Keep in mind that anything considered to be an antique is usually more than 100 years old. However, not all collectible items are considered antiques. Also, not all antiques are collectible items - it's just how things work out. If you have ever watched the Antique Road Show on TV, you'll have seen a lot of people with items that have been in their families for over 100 years but are pretty much worthless.



It's possible to get your hands on antiques without paying insane prices too. You can go down the route of looking for genuine antique items which can and will cost quite a bit of money. But you can also get replica antique items that look the part without costing the earth. A lot of hardware stores (online and offline) have items like soap dishes, door handles, mirrors, vanities and shelves that can create the antique look you're wanting to create at home. Even adding a few items like these to your bathroom can start the antiquing process. Some places even sell these items in matching sets.



You can also turn your modern bathroom into an antique one by purchasing antique mirrors. How much you are willing to spend depends on your budget and just how badly you want to create that perfect look in your bathroom. You can shop for antique mirrors online or in high-end stores. Sometimes a great antique mirror is all that you need to transform your bathroom.



Another aspect of creating an antique bathroom is what paint you're going to use. Look at pictures of the décor using the Victorian era or other similar areas and you'll have an idea of what colors were used. You could also consider some faux painting techniques to artificially age or weather your bathroom décor to give it a more authentic antique feel to it. Getting your paint scheme right is critical to your antique bathroom looking just right.



If these ideas for antique bathrooms are not enough, consider the fact that many companies are making fixtures that have an antique look in order to satisfy this customer trend. You can buy new antique pieces without worrying about the problems that you might have with authentic antiques or the cost involved with genuine antiques. The cost of maintaining antiques makes using modern replicas more practical and cost-effective.

About the Author:
Are you finding modern bathroom designs too clinical and cold? Would you prefer a warmer look and feel to your bathroom? Why not look at antique bathroom design as an option for redecorating your bathroom! Article source: www.bathroomcentral

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/tips-for-creating-antique-bathrooms-to-suit-your-budget-762894.html

Nautical Chart Coasters, Set of 4

Bedroom Drink Coasters

Author: Joey Pebble

Coasters are an often overlooked piece of home decor, that can really add a subtle but noticeable element to a rooms ambiance. While they are small, and mainly functional, they also come in sets, which allows you to spread them throughout a space. In this way the coaster can carry a certain color, or aspect, to every corner of a room, while still maintaining their useful nature.


The type of coaster you choose for your bedroom will have a major effect on how that room is influenced. One popular choice is to use upscale glass coasters. These coasters have a sleek modern feal, that brings to mind thoughts of corporate board rooms and towering skyscrapers.

Steal coasters are another way to add a modern touch to the space. Shining, stark, and hard, steal is a symbol of power and sophistication. While this might be appropriate for a high power corporate board room, that is not always the right choice for a relaxing or soothing bedroom.

Marble coasters are elegant and beautiful, but are less impersonal that coasters made from manufactured materials. The natural mountain born essence of the stone tends to add a personal, even primal element to the pieces.

Sandstone coasters have a gentle, soft appeal. Their sandy surface is reminiscent of a warm beach on a summer day. They of course also have the benefit of being absorbent, and thus highly functional.

Probably the most popular bedroom coastersare made from some sort of wool or cloth. These are often handmade, although you can find a variety of these in stores and online. The soft warm material just makes them feal cozier than others made from harder materials.

Whichever coaster you choose for your bedroom, it is important that it matches the personality you are trying to exude. They should also be functional and hassle free, so that they can contribute to relaxed atmosphere you are trying to create.

About the Author:

This article was written by Joey Pebble, on behalf of his design company http://coasters.pebblez.com - PebbleZ is the designer of a unique line of absorbent stone coasters, as well as avariety of imported marble and gemstone coasters, brought in from countries around the world.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/drinks-articles/bedroom-drink-coasters-762584.html

Cat Coaster Set

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Which Kitchen Floor is Right for Your Home?

Which Kitchen Floor is Right for Your Home?

Author: bloom media

Which Kitchen Floor is Right for Your Home?


A low maintenance floor can cut down the time you spend cleaning your home and make your property more hygienic. Having a stunning floor can also update the look of your home and potentially increase the value of your property if you’re looking to sell. There are many options when it comes to replacing the flooring in the key rooms of your home so check out some popular choices below.


Laminate


Laminate floors are a popular choice as they are affordable, easy to fit and easy to clean. Just because laminate tends to be a cheaper option, it doesn’t mean it’s any less stylish as it can come in hardwood or stone designs to give the illusion of much more expensive flooring. Laminate is also very easy to maintain as spillages won’t permanently damage the surface and cleaning is easy with warm soapy water. A downside of laminate is that after extended use the whole floor has to be replaced and can’t just be retreated as natural stone or wood flooring can.


Natural stone


Any room can look super stylish and luxurious with natural stone flooring. The most popular choices are slate, granite and quartz which can all bring a room right up to date. However, natural stone flooring is expensive and it’s not particularly suitable if you find your home hard to heat as it can often be cold underfoot. In terms of investment, natural stone flooring can last for decades with very little maintenance. If chips or scratches do occur in the flooring it’s wise to get a professional in to reseal the surface to avoid any further damage.


Vinyl


Vinyl is a similar surface to laminate but offers a more cushioned feel and can bounce back into shape. As with laminate, vinyl is very easy to install and can be cut into shape from a sheet or tiles which can be installed to fit any size floor. Vinyl flooring is made up of four separate layers making it very sturdy and hard wearing, especially as the top layer is a clear film designed to protect the surface underneath. There are plenty of colours and patterns available which means this type of flooring is suitable for a wide range of kitchens.


Natural wood


Although wood effect flooring is common, you can choose to go all out and install some genuine natural wood for the floors in your home. As with natural stone, this type of flooring can be expensive and to be fitted properly everything will need to be removed from the room so it’s not a great choice if you want a quick solution for your floors. Oak and maple are a popular choice for floors and give a deep brown look which is versatile enough to complement both a traditional or contemporary home. Wood can stain easily and warp in damp conditions such as in kitchens or bathrooms so it’s important to get the surface treated properly as soon as it’s installed. Annual waxing is also recommended to keep the floors protected and looking great.


Whatever choice of flooring you go for, make sure you consult the experts before you buy so you can be sure the surface is right for your home.

About the Author:

Steven Holmes

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/interior-design-articles/which-kitchen-floor-is-right-for-your-home-758342.html

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Wicker Furniture - Beautiful, Affordable, and Durable

Are you in the market for new furniture? If you are, perhaps you may be interested in looking at some wicker furniture. Wicker furniture offers a whole new dimension to your home furnishing. Not many homeowners realize this, but there are actually many benefits that are overlooked.
Classic Wicker Furniture

Beautiful wicker furniture.

Wicker furniture has been around for ages. In our modern society, we often see wicker furniture in hotel lobbies, holiday resorts, etc. We seldom see them in home. So that perception seems to have stuck. But why do you think hotels and resorts like to use wicker furniture as their chief furnishing?

Just ask yourself, how do you feel when you walk into a setting full of wicker furniture? Chances are, you start feeling more relax. The entire mood in the room is a relaxing one. That is because wicker furniture has this natural quality - it is able to create a relaxing environment.

Most people who visit hotels and resorts want to relax. Therefore, it makes good sense to place wicker furniture in such settings. But what about the home for the average homeowner? Is wicker furniture a suitable candidate?

The home is a place for relaxing. It is a sanctuary, where you can go back to after a busy day at work. Surely, you want your home to have a relaxing environment that welcomes you home each and every single day. That's why more and more homeowners are buying wicker furniture for their homes.

Affordable wicker furniture.

Contrary to popular belief, wicker furniture cost less than other furniture types such as wooden furniture. Many people think that wicker furniture is expensive because they see such furniture in 5 star hotels. Clearly, that is not the case. Some wicker furniture are indeed expensive due to their rare and complex patterns, but in most cases, wicker furniture is actually more affordable than other furniture.

The furniture is cheap because they are manufactured in Asian countries where labor and materials are cheap. When the cost of production is cheap, the retail price tend to be cheaper too. If you really want to save more money, you may even buy wicker furniture at wholesale prices. That does mean having to buy more in a single order, but you also save a lot more.

Durable wicker furniture.

Cane is well known for its toughness. After treating with heat in the manufacturing process, the cane is then allowed to cool. Once cooled, the cane quickly regains its tough qualities. You can't easily bend it, and you certainly can't easily break it. In other words, you can expect your wicker furniture to last for many years.

The furniture requires very little maintenance. Just wipe it with a wet cloth every now and then to prevent dust from accumulating in the gaps.

Three Things to Have When Decorating

People, in their own little way, want to experience how it feels like to decorate something. Others would start decorating or creating accessories. Earrings, bracelets, anklets and the likes are only a few of the pieces that they can try making. When they feel confident about it, they can try to make larger pieces like a metal wall sculpture. It is better if individuals learn first how to use metals and making the blueprint of the design.

Of course, you would creativity when you want to decorate. Everywhere you look, a person gave his all in order to create something unique and pleasant. With constant practice and determination, people come up with extraordinary designs and ideas wherein even people from abroad appreciate. The great thing about this is that once you made something, people will admire you for your willingness to make something different. Even though the world has plenty of common things, you still want to make a difference in the world. There is nothing wrong if you do not go with the flow. It is okay sometimes to be like that at least you are not a passive person.

Second thing that you must have if you want to decorate is confidence. If you always think that you cannot do it, then there is no use if you want to pursue making a metal wall sculpture. No matter what the outcome would be, you should be happy that you undergone the experience. Do not always take things negatively because it will do you no good. Sometimes, failures make way for great and better things so try to make the most out of it.

Last thing that you have to have if you want to continue on your dream to decorate is patience. Everything takes time and surely each time you wait, it is worth your time. If you try to make things faster, you might not be able to have a nice outcome. If you can make things at a much faster rate without compromising the quality, better for you. Not everyone can do that. The tendency of the individuals is to try to make more items so that they can sell them to people.

It does not matter whether you target to make metal wall sculpture or a wall hanging; the important thing here is to believe in yourself. If you know that you can do this, your family would be more than willing to support you in this endeavor. More so, it is nice to see that your loved ones try to make you be happy with this. It may be something new to them but it does not matter as long as they see you enjoying every single bit of it. Thank your loved ones for being there for you because they will surely be your biggest fans once people start noticing your potential in this desired field. It is not every day that you get to wake up in the morning and just do whatever you feel like doing.
The Home Depot: Decorating 1-2-3

Need Automated Gates for the Home?

It is important to feel safe in your home and to know that when you are away, your property is protected. This is why people opt for certain devices to help them feel that little more secure in their home such as alarm systems, secure locks and automated gates.

Devices such as these, particularly automated gates are a practical way to ensure your property is kept at a distance from others, as well as adding an extra touch of home improvement to the look of your property. They act as a guard for your privacy to ensure you feel safer in your home.

Some specialists in automated gates Bristol area provide the option of having audio and video intercom so you can always see or hear your visitors and be aware of who you are letting onto your property. With the ability to open and close your gates from the home or car, you can always be ensured that you have the control of who you want to enter your home before they reach the front door. This has endless safety and privacy factors that can make you feel that little more secure when answering the door.

Living alone or providing for your family makes you more aware of the dangers that can arise from not being able to see who is allowed in your home. With technology more advanced today than ever before, it is the perfect time to understand there are methods to keeping your lives that little more secure and private, making it easier for you to know loved ones and yourself are as safe as can be.

Looking for a quality automated gate company and installer Bristol doesn’t have to be a challenge, there are those that are available to give a quality product with a first class service, helping you choose the right gate for you and your home.

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Helpful Tips in Decorating a Football-Themed Room

Helpful Tips in Decorating a Football-Themed Room

Author: John Rockwell

Every family has got that one person in their home where one family member doesn't only love football but practically worships it. It can either be your husband, your college son or even your teenage daughter. This is not unusual because Americans are well-known for their love of football. Some even collect items such as football memorabilia like new NFL helmets just for the love of the game. Therefore, if you have a spare room in the house which you have been waiting to decorate for a long time, then this is the perfect opportunity to do so. This room can serve as a family room that everyone can enjoy. Here are some tips you can follow to begin decorating your football-themed room.


Gertie Hurlie Football by Small World Toys

• The first thing you need to do is to determine what colors you have in mind that will work best for your new room. It is suggested that you find out the team colors of your family's favorite team as basis for your room's wall colors and everything placed on it. In this way, it will be extra easy to match every piece inside the room.



• You should then determine the materials that are necessary for your new project. If you plan to show off one of your husband's football mini helmet collection, then purchase a display case for its protection. There is also a line of paint available in Home Depot where they offer exact colors of every NFL team.



• When planning for your room design, you don't have to be traditional and paint the walls with one color. You can opt to paint it with alternating colors of the team. Another suggestion is to use a signature color of the team and accenting it with dramatic shade such as silver at the top to create a border. You can also be playful by doing more than just an ordinary paint job like creating a football field right inside your room. This will definitely make the room more fun and creative.



• You can also decorate the room with large pieces of furniture such as football-shaped chairs. If you are not particularly keen on this idea, then you can also spruce up your couch or chairs by adding football throw pillows.



• Accessories are an important part in decorating the whole room. It does not have to be daunting. Look for rugs or lamps with football logos that can match the décor of the whole room. Add a little bit of flair by putting on drapes and curtains with football designs on them.



• It is also a good idea to make the shelves permanent. If your son has a collection of the new NFL helmets, buy appropriate shelves, display cabinets or racks. In this way, your son's collection will make the room have a more personalized feel to it.



Decorating your new football-themed room can be quite a challenging task at first. But if you are creative enough and determined to make this family room fun for your family, then everything will be much easier. Once you have finished the room, your family will definitely thank you for it.

About the Author:
Coach John Rockwell is a huge football fan. He has written many articles related to New NFL Helmets. Other articles Coach John has written are related to sports equipment and collectibles such as NFL Helmets. Coach John resides in Texas with this wife and three children.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/helpful-tips-in-decorating-a-footballthemed-room-749192.html

Energize Your Tired Dining Room in a Flash

Energize Your Tired Dining Room in a Flash

Author: Cathy Robertson

You know the kitchen is the natural gathering place for family and friends, and often that includes the dining area as well. Fast, simple and inexpensive pick me ups for your dining room are easy as pie.



Breathe new life into your chairs! If you have chairs with padded seats you have a couple of options. Cover the chair pads with a fresh new fabric or slip cover the whole chair. Did you know that 24”x24” piece of fabric will easily cover most chair pads? For unpadded chairs consider adding tie back cushions for comfort and a splash of color. You may prefer to simply clean them up and apply a good furniture polish. If your chairs a very sad and warn looking don’t be afraid to slap a fresh coat of stain or paint on them.



Let your center piece take center stage! A centerpiece for your table need not be expensive or complicated. Even the simplest of them add tons of charm. Try these: Fill a tray with river rock & candles. Use a teapot, various sized bottles or coffee pot as a flower vase. Fill a large bowl or tray with fresh fruit. Create a runner with place mats set end to end. Use an old mirror as a tray to hold several pillar candles. Place a potted plant in a basket. The possibilities are endless. Best of all you can change them out to fit the occasion at hand.



You don’t have to buy new curtains to get a whole new look! Simple changes with an attention to detail will do the trick. Drape pretty cloth napkins on the diagonal across the top of your curtain rod. Update the finials. Add a decorative trim to your curtains. Adorn your tab tops with buttons, old chandelier crystals or beads. Add new tiebacks either store bought or homemade. Old belts, scarves or strings of costume pearls as tiebacks can make your curtains feel fun and new again.



Don’t forget the walls! You don’t have to paint, although you could. Just mix things up a bit. Switch out your pictures with some from another room. Put fresh mats in your frames. If you haven’t any wall art, add some. It can be anything from traditional art to mirrors, candle sconces or decorative shelving. Add a wall mounted plant hanger or display Great granny’s quilt. Anything, just don’t let your walls go naked!



Look up. Do you enjoy your light fixture? You could change it out all together or you can dress up the one you have. Consider just replacing the globe. Don’t like the color of the metal? Paint it. For chandelier types, add sparkle with beads or crystal. Add new mini shades or decorative bulbs. Or you can keep it simple and just clean it up. You might find it’s not such a bad looking light after all!



Simple inexpensive changes in your dining room bring on a whole new appreciation for your space. It creates feelings of contentment and family and home. That’s what it’s really all about anyway! Bringing people together in a comfortable space that you have fashioned is fun and fosters memories. So what are you waiting for? Do it for your family. Do it for yourself!


About the Author:

Cathy Robertson is an Artist and writer for Fine Art Castle. Have fun, informative decorating & design articles delivered to you! Sign up for our monthly Newsletter today at New Dining Room Design
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