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Tudor and Jacobean Interior Design Ideas and Styles

Because of its reliance upon architectural features and spaces, the Tudor and Jacobean interior design style may not seem an obvious one to interpret in any place other than a building of the period. However, to dismiss it so lightly could be a mistake. Be prepared to be charmed by the elegance of its simplicity, by the grace of its curves and by the honesty of materials and natural colors.

It is the perfect solution for a large hallway, impressively proportioned dining room or ample bedroom (especially if you possess a grand antique or reproduction four-poster bed to form your centerpiece). A large open fireplace is a marvelous starting point that will necessitate little more to evoke this romantic theme.

Paint walls a slightly grayish, creamy-white to represent aged whitewashed plaster. Decorate with faded watercolor stenciled motifs from the period if this appeals. Alternatively, attach reproduction panels made of resin/foam in a design of the period.

Wood planking, stone flags and terracotta tiles would all be ideal floorings. However, to give a floor an instant Tudor feeling, lay chunky medieval-style rush matting or one of the other natural floorings now widely available.

Wooden shutters at the windows give an authentic look, but for a more homely appearance drape a single curtain of heavy brocade or velvet from a handsomely proportioned, wooden pole and swag to one side.

Hang simple-design wrought-iron chandeliers or wall sconces and fill your room with candlelight. Another idea would be to convert a large blue-and-white jar into an electrified table lamp with a parchment shade. A similar conversion to an ecclesiastical brass candlestick would also produce an appropriate result.

To accessorize, scatter pewter drinking vessels and plates, wooden bowls and basic eating implements around the room. World trade shops may be a good source of imported items with the right basic feel.

Large blue-and-white oriental ginger jars and vases, grouped together atop a chest or table, will provide some color for your scheme.

Modem-day crewelwork fabric made in India is widely available and would make most suitable bed, window or door drapes. Textiles featuring flame stitch designs are particularly appropriate, as are velvets, brocades and leather.

Portraits of the period and naive paintings of domestic animals are now being reproduced by photographic means and finished in oil at a very reasonable cost. These will distract the eye from any lack of period architectural details and will fill your walls with interest.

Some most attractive machine-made tapestries are currently being manufactured by the meter. Backed with batons, these make ideal wall hangings. Tapestry borders are also being produced and look wonderful when used as an edging to natural floor coverings.

Trimmings are an all-important element of the style. Tassels and tasseled fringes in particular are appropriate and provide a suitable finish for upholstery.

A large rush log basket beside the fireplace will help to conjure up the period.

Beautiful, Bright And Breezy Interior Design Ideas

Beautiful, bright and breezy rooms in which to relax and enjoy your favourite hobby or pass time are something we should all try to emulate! All very well if you have a spare room, if not a quiet corner of a living or dining room would be fine!

Those with a basement or attic could also utilise the space as long there is sufficient light and warmth. Major renovations can cost the earth, however with a little ingenuity a small space can be transform into a haven in which to relax and unwind.

To achieve a simple yet stunning look on a budget opt for stripped floor boards. If you are fed up with natural wood looks or if your floor boards are not in very good condition you could always paint them! Paint manufactures have developed paint which is designed to take the tough treatment floors can get or for a cheap alternative simply use an emulsion and repaint it when it begins to look tatty!

Choose a bright colour to inspire your hobby or pass times. Nautical themes are great for bringing a sense of fun and memories of the sea, holidays and sunny days. If your hobby is more sedate or you just want a space to relax with a book opt for neutral or pastel tones to create a sense of serenity.

Add simply and unfussy window dressings which allow masses of natural light to flood into the room. It is surprising just how much natural light there is even on overcast days! Keep to light weight curtains which offer a light and airy ambience to the room.

Select furniture which is comfortable and practical! One of the latest interior design trends is the ‘shabby chic’ look which enables you to have an a miss mash of odd pieces of furniture within the same room. Try and keep to only two colours for walls, ceilings and floors as this will enable you to inject colour by using natural products such as vases of seasonal flowers or brightly coloured cushions and throws.

Create wonderful lighting effects during the evenings with a collection of small and large table lamps. One key factor is to keep clutter to a minimum otherwise your dream space will end up looking like a ‘tip’ and whilst ‘shabby chic’ enables you to have old and new sitting side by side and look stunning, it does not give the go-ahead for mess!

The great thing about this style of room design is that it can be achieved on a very small budget. Scour junk shops, visit boots fairs and garage sales, take heed of the old saying ‘one man’s junk is another man’s treasure’!

If you need to invest in something new it should probably be a lamp as you need to be sure that it is safe and works!

Beautiful mirror lamps are a great way to achieve some wonderful diffused lighting effects. Opt for modern styles which have large white shades if you need plenty of good light to work by. Alternatively use small and delicate lamps for relaxation areas.

Using Japanese Interior Design Ideas

Pick a country or period style that suits your personality and decorate your bedroom like that. It will make you feel comfortable and happy since it reflects your tastes.

If you are looking for good ideas to use in redesigning your bedroom, you can find a lot in many different sources. The first thing you should think about, is your personal tastes; this is a room you will spend a lot of time in and you want to make sure it reflects you and that you will be comfortable in it.

You can start to do this be reviewing the various schools of interior design and deciding which one of them most reflects your philosophy of beauty and comfort. The main ones are Modern, Oriental, Gothic, Roman, Greek and Egyptian.

Oriental and Modern design have a great deal in common. The Japanese style of design is marked by straight, simple lines and natural materials, such as cloth and wood, very similar to modern (although modern will also include plastic). But this minimalist look is common to both of them, and smooth lines and lack of ornamentation will be the key. There are other oriental styles that may include some fancier lines, however.

The Gothic theme makes wide use of black and includes eccentric touches such as gargoyles and exotic curtains and such. IF you want to make a statement in your bedroom, this style will surely do it.

The Greek and Roman themes also have a lot in common, since it is said that Roman design is based on the Greek but also improves upon it. Large columns and open vistas mark this style, so it is really only possible if you have a large bedroom space.

If gold is your color, Egyptian is your theme. The liberal use of lush colors such as gold and fabrics such as silk and tapestry will make a room look like Cleopatra’s court. For an added touch, use stone tablets with hieroglyphics or depictions of ancient Egyptian gods.

Picking style or period theme is a good way to get started on the best way to re-design you bedroom. There are many other ways to go, but if one of these reflects your personality, go for it!

Inspirational Interior Design Ideas to Transform Your Home

Take inspiration for interior design styles from everywhere you go! Staying in hotels is a great way to get some fantastic home interior styles, remember that the hotel paid for a designer to create their unique look, but you can use the room layouts, soft furnishings and colours to inspire your home particularly for bedrooms, bathrooms and informal seating areas!

You can also use their design ideas to decide what you don’t want as well! Each time you walk into a hotel bedroom your immediate reaction is the one to go by. If you say ‘wow’ then look around at the colours and layouts that gave you that reaction. Equally if your heart sinks when you walk into a room, make a mental note of the aspects you didn’t like! You should also remember that the higher the star rating the more likely the room is going to give you a ‘wow’ factor!

If you don’t have the opportunity to spend time at hotels a great alternative is to browse online at the wonderful blogs and websites which are dedicated to interior design. Your home may not have enormous rooms but you can take inspiration and find some great ideas!

Hotels and interior design journals are rarely seen with vases of flowers, as the add both charm and decadence to a room. The vases are also worth taking note of as they can become a focal point in your living area and always provide a fresh look.

The décor colour is always a great starting point! White or neutral soft tones are a great way to make rooms appear larger. Dark rich tones provide a warm and cosy feeling which is also ideal for giving depth to a room and can create a more sensuous atmosphere.

Some wonderful wall art may also inspire you. Look along hotel corridors as well as in the public places and while their wall art may be far too large for your home the styles provide a great opportunity for inspiration!

Look at the window treatments, many older style hotels have luxurious full length drape curtains complete with fabric covered pelmets. Modern hotels often use blinds in conjunction with medium weight curtains to provide both a chic style and reduce light. On the continent natural wood blinds and shutters are used to help keep rooms cool.

The bedside table lamps can also inspire and quite often are coordinated with large table lamps to bring cohesion and a sense of balance to the room. Subdued lighting effects are ideal in bedrooms as the induce a feeling of relaxation, calm and serenity.

Choose bases and shades which reflect your interior design style. Opt for beautiful glass which will suit both traditional and modern homes and shades in white or cream to coordinate effortlessly with your soft furnishings.

These ideas may help you create a home which has style and comfort and may just inspire you to change the colour scheme or replace window dressings to bring a new and fresh feel to your home!

Interior design ideas – choose the appropriate furniture and accessories for your home

Each of us wanted to change something in the nature of your home – wallpaper, furniture, carpets, etc. Anything can change, it is good to comply with some small things that will save you big headaches.

When you buy furniture is good to evaluate the overall color of the situation, the type of furniture and how many people will inhabit the room. Type of floor / laminate, carpet and the total size of the room are also a determining factor.

Select a heavy thick curtains for the windows of the bedroom and living room, and lighter of the doors. So your home will be comfortable and esthetic. Thick curtains create an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility.

Since it is a choice of furniture, large leather sofa or couch are particularly suitable for modern homes. If you are a fan of comfort and warmth of wood, you can choose vibratory chairs. If you often need to move from one location to another chose the cane, which combine the convenience and low cost. Of course a similar effect can be achieved with PVC chairs and tables.

The amount and type of decor must meet the area of your home. Bright walls and wallpaper suitable for smaller rooms, creating a sense of space. Room accessories – paintings, photographs – must also meet the size of the room. If you have a large home, may set a dark interior and large pictures.

Additional effects can be achieved when combined with sofa shade with light sources. If you choose them at different times choose lamp with a neutral light, to match every color and type of powder.

Another important part of the decoration of the house is carpet. It does not only enhance the effect of interior design, but brings additional style and comfort at home. In addition you can choose decorative glass windows, or even hanging ceiling if you have enough space.

source: http://www.modazadoma.com

How To Capture And Review Your Interior Design Ideas And Selections By Creating A Professional Looking Sample Board

Interior designers often create sample boards to give the client an idea of the design proposal they have developed. They place the colour samples, images of the furniture selected, examples of the materials to be used and accessories selected for the project on a board. The number of sample boards created depends on the size of the project. Small one room projects usually only need one board. Larger projects many need a number of different sample boards.

Some examples of different types of sample boards

Colour  (often used by colour consultants)
Furniture
Drawings (perspective)
Plans (floor plans)
Materials (carpets, laminates…)

There are a number of reasons why designers use sample boards. Firstly they can be used as a way of communicating design ideas. It can also be used to act as a reference tool during the life of a project. The tools need to make a board include the board, tape, adhesive, Stanley knife and labels.

Tools needed to create a sample board

Board (paper, foam, illustration, museum boards, or Gator board for heavy materials)
Tape (masking, double sided, Velcro for heavy items)
Cutting tool (Stanley knife, pinking shears, sharp scissors)
Rulers (metal for cutting, scale rule for measuring)
Pens and pencils (felt tip, soft pencil, coloured pencils, coloured pens)
Adhesive (Clear all purpose, spray adhesive)
Cutting mat
Labels (usually white)

The size of the board selected to create the sample boards usually depends on the size of the project. In these eco friendly times the smallest board size possible should be used for the project. The most common sizes used by designers A2 or A1.

Creating the board

Most designers leave a border of at least 1cm from the top and the 2 sides of the board
A larger space is left at the bottom of the board
The border can be coloured to coordinate with the colour scheme

Tip:  A sample paint pot of the colour to be used in the room could be used for the border or the space inside the border

Work out the size for each item (for example the carpet sample would be bigger than a lamp)
Trim the items to be placed on the board
Fabrics can be cut with pinking shears to stop fraying
If more than one room is involved in the project then each board should be labeled (living, bedroom……)
Create labels for each item (labels can be created on your computer or by hand)

Tip: Have all the tools and items ready before you begin

Position each item on the board according to where they would be placed in the room (for example carpet at the bottom of the board, ceiling paint sample at the top of the board)
When you are happy with the arrangement you can use adhesive to place each item in place
Remember Velcro can be used for heavy items (tiles, timber….)

Tip: A hairdryer can be used to remove some glued items if they have been position incorrectly

The eco friendly way to create sample boards

Many designers are now creating sample boards electronically. Last year I wrote a tutorial on how to create a sample board using Word Publisher. This was before I discovered the website http://www.sampleboardonline.com Sample Board Online is a brilliant free, easy to use, eco friendly tool designed by designers for designers.

The same principles can be applied when creating a sample board electronically as those mentioned above. However there are different schools of thought on the subject.The most important thing is the board is clear, easy to follow and is self explanatory.

Interior Design Ideas For Children’s Rooms

Most children have a tendency to leave toys, books, games and clothes scattered all over their rooms and although laziness does play a part in the disorganised chaos, it’s often the size and design of the room which hampers the child’s organisational ability.

For optimal results order bespoke furniture and accessories

These days, there are companies dedicated to the interior design of children’s rooms. A host of multi-purpose furnishings and designer accessories are available on the market but one way to optimally use the space provided is to order bespoke or custom-made furniture and accessories.

It is crucial children be given the opportunity to express individual needs and wants when undertaking a room makeover. All children have their own identity, personality and lifestyle, so it’s certainly not a given that interior design which works for one will automatically be pleasing and functional to another.

Make interior design a team effort

Consult your child before making the step of ordering made-to-measure furniture and accessories and do a bit of homework too to get the necessary inspiration for neat, adequate and attractive designer furniture and storage space.

Don’t make the critical mistake of ordering or buying furniture and accessories which are age specific. One thing is for certain, your child will grow and mature and a good bespoke furniture design should evolve along with the child.

Don’t be too age specific

Mickey Mouse motifs plastered all over the room and furnishings or garish colours may suit a little one but it’ll be wise and cost-effective to purchase or order kid’s furniture and accessories which are elegant, made from hardy and attractive materials and which blend in with the overall tone of your home.

Spatial constraints are a constant problem with children’s rooms but attractive and understated storage and toy boxes are the easy solution. Solid wood cartons or toy boxes made from leather with a dark antique tan finish are currently all the rage and the good news is these items will arguably increase in value over time.

Essential items for any kid’s room

- A comfortable bed – make your child feel like royalty with a stylish handcrafted four poster bed made from reclaimed Burmese teak or other durable hardwood!

- A work desk and chair – go ‘Out of Africa’ with a hand-made hardwood kid’s desk, with a slung yellow leather matching chair.

- Toy box – select either solid wood or genuine leather; these items could become valuable collectibles in time.

- Reading or bedside lamps – there’s a vast and funky collection of lamps and lampshades on the market. Emulate the African theme with shades made from porcupine quills or guinea fowl feathers or simply go for the straight lines and simplicity of a Hudson film lamp or a captain’s brass lamps, both ideal for boys.

- Additional storage – there’s an elegant range of bins and boxes of teak, suede and leather which will hide the mess and fit in with the overall theme.

- Comfortable seating – how about a hand-made suede pouf?

- Designer accessories – both mirrors and clocks are a must in any bedroom. Select from a wide range of stylish and attractive pieces including bronze eye desk clocks, vintage style station clocks or metal-framed Portobello multi mirrors. Who knows, they may be worth a small fortune one day!

Beauty Salon Interior Design Ideas and Advice

Salon Interior Design Tip #1: Consider Your Clientele

Is your salon strictly for “the girls” or do you cater to men’s grooming needs? Do you offer couples massage? Do you invite young teens to pamper themselves? Are you a family oriented salon? The most important element to interior design of your beauty salon or spa, is to know who you will be serving and keeping your design decisions consistent.

Salon Interior Design Tip #2: Consider the Layout

According to an article published by “Entrepreneur” Magazine, the average salon space usually range from 1,200 to 2,000 square feet, although some can be considerably smaller (fewer than 1,000 square feet).

You’ll need four separate areas in your hair salon:

-        Reception and retail (20% floor space)

-        Shampoo and Drying  (10% floor space)

-        Cutting and service (50% floor space)

-        Storage, break room, and the employee/client restroom (20% floor space)

http://www.entrepreneur.com/startingabusiness/businessideas/startupkits/article79550-5.html

Salon Interior Design Tip #3:  Color Palette

Colors affect people’s moods and attitudes. Consider how you want your clients to feel when they are in your salon or spa. Your service line will influence what colors you use. If you offer spa services, consider calming colors to help your clients relax. If you are going for more of a fast paced salon, you may want to use energizing-warm tones.  Don’t be afraid to experiment with materials such as glass, metal, or stone to create a calming or energetic environment.

Salon Interior Design Tip #4:  Lighting

The way you choose to light your facility can lead to a tranquil or an edgy atmosphere. Again, consider the image you are trying to project to your clients. Low light settings include candlelight, lamps, and accent space with track lighting or small spotlights. This creates a tranquil atmosphere. High light settings incorporate natural daylight, large lighting fixtures such as chandeliers, and open space that allows light to sweep from room to room, or through deep spaces. Your best bet would be to incorporate the two lighting styles to create a unique atmosphere with ambient and direct light.

Salon Interior Design Tip #5:  Quality Salon Equipment

Today, when you walk into a modern beauty salon, you will find a wide array of unique and comfortable chairs, manicure tables, and massage equipment. This is a sign of beauty salon that cares about it’s clients conform and satisfaction. Not only will quality salon equipment increase your clientele, but will also enable your stylist with all the tools they need to ensure they can create a unique atmosphere and safe work environment.

The salon environment is part of the package. People will judge your salon based on how it looks, the flow of operations, and the cleanliness of the facility. If you create an appealing environment for your clients and employees, you will have greater success than if you ignore or neglect these elements.