Selecting Chandelier Lighting For Your Home

Claire Calkin has written Selecting Chandelier Lighting For Your Home and writes "With such a variety of Chandeliers available today there is always that perfect one for any home. With a range of styles, designs and finishes to choose from selecting a chandelier can be as much of a creative process as you would like it to be. Each chandelier adds a touch of class to any room and warmth or vibrancy into any atmosphere. Styles can range from elaborate and large to modern and aesthetically pleasing. Chandeliers complement other lighting well and will add value to your home.

When choosing a chandelier for a dining room, the Victorian style is highly recommended as this popular design will add tranquillity and calm to a room that can be chaotic at even the best of times. There are always popular choices to choose from with Wrought Iron and Crystal styles at the top of the list. Some chandeliers can be hung alone as a center piece feature that will dress up any room. Choose from the vast array of finishes and shade styles to find a design that will create a room of modern style with a touch of love for art. Chandeliers can range decorative styles to create a modern, dramatic, simple, elegant and formal look..

The styles of chandeliers available include Tiffany, Victorian, Art deco, South western, Tropical, Crystal, Transitional, Early American, Lodge style, Whimsical, Old world, Oriental, Traditional classics, Country cottage, Architectural and mission style. Each chandelier style can work best in it’s own setting whether for a modern look, shimmering elegance, relaxed or sleek and shiny. Find the perfect finish for your room and it will work wonders with existing furniture and style. The finishes range from white or beige, multi-coloured, polished gold or brass, crystal, polished nickel or chrome, wood, rattan, iron, brick, bronze, rust and antique or satin brass. The type of chandeliers can include centre bowl, no shade, pot racks, crystal and shaded candles.

Chandelier Installation

Before you begin the installation check the ceiling electrical box to ensure a new light will be securely supported. If the new light is around the same weight as the old light, then the electric box should be able to support the new light fixture. When hanging over a dining table, centre the light in the middle of the table with 30” distance between the tabletop and the light, to prevent any bumped heads. When buying bulbs, you should decrease the bulb wattage when larger numbers of bulbs are required. For example, a 2 socket light could be fitted with two 60 watt bulbs, whereas a chandelier with three or more light sockets is probably more suited to 40 watt bulbs. Once correct bulbs are installed, the chandelier should give off sufficient light coverage without blinding anyone. Dimmers are helpful as they allow you to adjust the light to your requirements.

Cleaning Chandeliers

It is always a good idea to clean your chandelier at least once a year to keep it looking clean and shiny. Before you start, turn the lights of at least 10 minutes before you begin so the bulbs can cool down. Never clean the chandelier while the lights are on, this could lead to a burnt hand. If you are going to remove the pieces then separate the light in sections or draw up a picture of how the light fits together so you won’t be frustrated and confused later when trying to put the pieces back together. Place a blanket or duvet under the light to catch any pieces of the light that may fall. Keep the fixture in the same place as you clean and do not turn it around as this may strain the power cable.

When you are ready to begin, remove the trimming such as pendants and place in container. Clean with mild detergent and then rinse in hot water. The hotter the water the less spots. When cleaning festoons, place under water at arm length to stop from intertwining. Always use mild detergents as harsh cleaning products can make the pendants brittle and blackened. Many darken with age but it is always good to delay this as long as possible. When cleaning the body of the light, it is recommended to use a dry, lint free cloth for the best possible result. Remember to dust the bulbs as well as these are give away to cleanliness of the light. Replace all light pieces on the chandelier and lightly polish it to remove any remaining spots.

http://www.chandelier-lights.com

About The Author
Claire Calkin operates several websites covering home decor and chandelier lighting subjects.
claire@decor-furnishings.com

Picking Furniture for a Nursery

Bob Benson has written Picking Furniture for a Nursery and writes "Furnishing a nursery can be a wonderful time for an expectant mother. Not only is it fun to prepare for the birth of a baby, but it gives the expectant mother an outlet for those nesting instincts that will soon kick in. A lot of well-meaning people (i.e. parents and in-laws) will convince you that you simply must have certain furniture for your new baby’s room.

Some of the furniture you will likely consider includes:

Bassinette
Crib
Changing table
Dresser
Rocking chair

Do you need it all? Only you can know for sure. Ask yourself, “What furniture am I really likely to use?”

A bassinette is handy for keeping the new baby very close. Most are portable so you can roll them throughout the house. If someone offers to loan you a bassinette, take them up on it as long as the mattress is clean and in good shape. You’ll only use a bassinette for a short period of time, so why invest in it as a major piece of furniture?

A crib, however, is a different story. If you plan for your child to sleep on his or her own at all, you will want a crib. It’s not as safe to borrow a crib from someone and while cribs are a type of baby furniture that have sentimental attachments, don’t agree to use an old crib because it was the one your husband used when he was a baby. Safety standards have changed dramatically and what was once considered safe furniture, might not be now. Look online to find baby crib safety standards. Make sure any spindles on the bed are placed close enough so that the baby cannot get his or her head stuck between them. Also, make sure there’s no lead paint on the bed. If you’re like most mothers, you’ll feel better about your baby’s safety if you buy new or one that was just recently used by someone you know.

Do you need a changing table? Mothers went for years without this piece of furniture. But, they are nice to have and at a convenient height that saves some back strain. It’s a matter of available space, available money and your willingness to bend over to change a diaper!

A dresser, if bought to last for years, would be a good furniture investment. Don’t waste money on a cutesy theme dresser that the baby will only outgrow when he or she starts to develop personal tastes. Instead, think about the rest of your house. Do you have a lot of mahogany furniture or a lot of white painted furniture? Buy a dresser that you can move elsewhere in the house if your child decides he or she hates it down the road. Buy solid wood. The furniture will last longer and it will contain fewer chemicals than cheaper veneer furniture pieces often include in the processing stage or in the glue used to hold pieces together.

Everyone thinks you need a rocking chair if you have a baby. Is it a necessary piece of furniture for the nursery? Not if you have a rocking chair somewhere else in the house. No mother or baby wants to spend all their time in the nursery anyway. Use rocking time in another room to give you both a change of pace – unless you just want to buy a rocker.

About The Author
Bob Benson is the founder of Furniture online. You can check out our website at http://www.my-wicker-furniture.info.
contact@loan-source.co.u

Quick And Easy Bathroom Decor Changes

Quick And Easy Bathroom Decor Changes was written by Duane Jones and writes "Are you tired of the way your bathroom looks? Don't feel bad, a lot of folks are in the same boat. The bathroom is one room in the home that can look drab and run down very easily. And what if you don't have an unlimited budget to make changes in the fixtures and plumbing? Well take heart, there is lots that you can do for very little money that will totally and radically improve the decor of your bathroom.

One of the biggest problems with bathrooms is their tendency to get cluttered. You know, towels hanging all over the place, bath products on top of the vanity and on the shower floor, and things like that. So if you really want to make a 100% improvement in your bathroom clean up the clutter.

Fortunately, that is very easy to do and inexpensive. If you go to any WalMart or Target store, you will find plenty of organizer products for use in the bathroom. They are also very cheap. So get some of them and start to install them so that the most used products and items are within easy reach of wherever they would be used in the bathroom. If you make the storage spot convenient most people will continue to put it back in it's place after they use it. If you make the storage spot even a little difficult to access, you will see those items left all around wherever someone finds a spot for it.

Next, get some extra towel racks and install them so that there is a towel holder within easy reach of almost anywhere in the bathroom. Extra towel holders mean that even used towels can have a spot to be hung up instead of just left lying over the tub or shower stall door. Another advantage decor-wise of having extra towel bars is that you can use some of them to put up fancy towels for show that will really pick up the appearance of the room and highlight the colors that you used in your bathroom design.

Another simple and easy change to the appearance of any bathroom is the flooring. If you don't like what you see, change it. Fortunately, most bathroom floor spaces are fairly small and so not much material is needed. There are several options that you can choose from including vinyl sheets, ceramic tile, or vinyl tile squares. If you want simple and easy, stick-on vinyl tiles are probably the way to go. You can get them at a local Home Improvement store and they are usually very inexpensive too, and you can get some great looking designs that look very close to actual ceramic tile at a casual glance. Armed with a small cutter to trim the tiles when needed or shape them around an object on the bathroom floor, you are ready to go. If you make a mistake, peel up that tile, throw it away and use another one. Simple and easy!

Finally, buy some new towels for the bathroom. Get some great new colors and designs that are eye-cathcing and pleasing. Again, not much money invested for lots of return in visual appeal.

Change out the door knobs on your vanity and closet, and change the shower curtain and rings if you have one.

Just a few of these inexpensive changes in a bathroom can go a long way to changing that tired, old, cluttered, bathroom into one that makes you proud to show it off, and a pleasure to use.

Duane Jones - All About Bed And Bath provides free information, resources and tips on finding bedding, comforters, bathroom fixtures, tubs, and more for your home at the very best price.

Nursery Room Decor

Tasneem Mirza has written Nursery Room Decor and writes "The nursery is your newborn's first room, his own little world: the environment, which in part will influence and shape his personality. As a parent your goal is to provide a surrounding that is comfortable, secure, inviting and cozy.

A functional, safe and stimulating environment precedes aesthetic needs. Here is one illustration for decorating a boy's nursery. Instead of restricting the color to a single monotonous tone, a variety of bright blues, yellows, reds, pinks and green were selected. According to studies, introduction to bright colors and shapes help stimulate babies' imaginations. The inspiration for the nursery can be derived from an adorable multi-colored hand hooked rug with animals and alphabets. The animals on the rug provide a theme for the room and form the central focus for design. The motifs can continue with the use of animal mobile overhead, crib bedding, pillows and other accessories..

The furniture should be kept simple. An inexpensive entertainment center can be used as an armoire, which is practical, and most importantly has ample storage. Built in cabinets conceal clutter, help organization and present a neat tidy look. Both the armoire and the cabinet are excellent long-term choices not restricted to age and can be used as the child grows. These furniture items with simple white distressed finish complement varied kids of décor can be alternately used in another room.

Safety precedes any other aesthetic element. The crib and bassinet should be ideally positioned in an area that is away from objects like windows, draperies, blinds or shelves that can cause accidents. One other important thing to consider while placing the crib is to avoid picture frames or any other items that can fall on the baby. The crib can be placed against the wall away from the window with a light mesh canopy hung from the ceiling. The canopy should be securely fastened from a hook to prevent accidents. The canopy with pale yellow hue and ruffle edges adds a delicate touch to the crib. Use a traditional white wicker bassinet with blue gingham ribbon details, which will stand out against the colorful background. The room can have both a bed and a crib and as the baby grows this arrangement will ease the transition from "baby bed" to "big-boy bed." As a concerned parent, it's also nice to have a spot where Mom or Dad can sleep near the baby.

Accessories such as picture frames, lamps and artwork, are a great way to add fun, pattern and color without much expense. Room accessories like distressed white wooden letters hung from blue gingham ribbon add a distinctive, personal touch to the nursery

When designing a nursery, creating a cute themed room is important but creating an intellectually stimulating, safe, spacious environment should be the central focus.Visit Exquisite Rugs to find unique kids room accessories. Exquisite Rugs has a wide selection of kids rugs in different price range, styles, colors and patterns. A number of kids room accessories like kids decorative pillows, personalized kids room decor, frames and other decor items are available.

Tasneem Mirza is the Managing Partner of Exquisite Rugs LLC. and member of AWBA, NJWA and Beta Gamma Alpha- honors society for business students. Under the leadership of Tasneem Mirza, Exquisite Rugs launched in April 2002 has gained increased recognition. Tasneem Mirza has indebt knowledge of the rug industry. For questions related to rugs or Exquisite Rugs products please feel free to contact her.

To Contact Exquisite Rugs: Website:ExquisiteRugs.com

Bathroom Decorating Tips Mirrors and Lighting

Anne Clarke has written Bathroom Decorating Tips - Mirrors and Lighting and writes "Bathrooms can be one of the easiest rooms in your entire house to decorate, and yet they are sometimes overlooked. Why not make sure that your bathroom is decorated as thoughtfully as the rest of your house? Are you hard-pressed to find some excellent ideas for decorating your bathroom? Well, check out some of these ideas.

A mirror can be a wonderful decoration in your bathroom. Mirrors really add depth to even small bathrooms. A mirrored medicinal cabinet is an excellent choice for some bathrooms. They are multi-functional – they help store your bathroom necessities, and can also help you check the back of your hairstyle (if it has hinged doors that face one another or another mirror...)

If you already have plenty of storage, though, you may want to just go out and pick up a beautiful mirror to hang above your sink. It can be the centerpiece of your entire bathroom if it has the right frame. Oval mirrors look lovely over pedestal sinks.

You may want or already have a mirror that practically takes up an entire wall. These mirrors can really open up the space of your bathroom. To make them a bit more interesting, you can buy a window-frosting kit and stencil some designs onto your mirror. You can even make up your own design to fit what ever motif you want for your bathroom.

If you have a big, basic mirror, another way to dress it up is to actually place another mirror over it. Yes, this may seem like a crazy idea, but it can have a really beautiful effect. Yes, you can hammer directly into the mirror, but make sure you do it correctly and with proper padding so that you do not crack your mirror. Check with an expert before trying this.

The right lighting can also make a big improvement on your bathroom. Lighting may not seem like a bathroom decoration, but the right light fixture cannot only add to the style of your room, but it can also make all of your other special details in your bathroom really stand out. The right lighting can also make it much easier for you to get ready in the morning.

Lighting and mirrors are two things that you may want to consider splurging on for your bathroom. Less expensive bathroom decorating ideas include simply getting matching paint, shower curtain, bath mats and bath accessories. Go wild.

Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and home decor. Her background includes teaching and gardening. For more of her articles on bathroom decor, please visit Shower Curtains.

Quick Planning for Your Bedroom Decor

Lester Fong has written Quick Planning for Your Bedroom Decor and writes "The essence of good bedroom decorating starts with planning. This is all the more important since we spend about a third of our lives in bed. So let’s have a look at….

• Occupants – the number of occupants will determine the accessibility of the bedroom space as well as the size of the bed. For example, you may have to choose from a double bed or a king-sized bed for 2 occupants. In turn, this also affects the space in which you position the bed.

• Light – this should be well-controlled with curtains and blinds during the day and with artificial light during the night. Click on the respective links for the appropriate tips..

• Power Point – the positions of power and phone sockets will affect the positioning of lamps, phones and entertainment systems. Thus, it is important to map out these sockets to plan their placement.

• Storage – a well designed wardrobe system is more than just adequate shelves for clothing and accessories. It also puts everything at arm’s reach, and allows you to see where your things are. Where possible, go for built-in storage. It not only provides efficient storage but gives the room a sleek pulled-together look as well as eliminates the need to fill the room with furniture. Remember too, that beds should never be placed within the arc of wardrobe doors or opening drawers.

Lester Fong
http://www.unique-home-decor-ideas.com

How to Create a Cottage Kitchen Design

How to Create a Cottage Kitchen Design was written by James Mahoney and he writes "The cottage style of kitchen design in characterized as a colorful, comfortable feel that is created by painted or decorated furniture, baskets, beadboard walls and natural fiber rugs, and weathered surface finishes, as well as colors one would expect to find in a garden.

Cottage-style kitchen can have many accessories, but it is necessary to avoid going overboard to keep the clutter from becoming distracting. The cottage-style of kitchen design is also known for floors that are bare with the exception of an occasional throw rug.

The cottage style of kitchen design conjures up images of a room light and airy, charming and casual. The breezy, uncomplicated feel one finds in a summer cottage. Cottages evoke seaside vacations, a countryside locale, or a cabin in the mountains. The mood is always relaxed, unassuming, and casual. Simplification is the prominent feature of the cottage style of kitchen design..

Due to the fact that cottage style kitchens are small they usually have a floor plan that is fresh and open, that can function easily, as well as be a place to entertain.

To be able to create the cottage feel for you kitchen you need to look at accessories such as house wares, linens, and furnishings you will choose for your kitchen. Some examples are the use of white distressed, stained and butcher-block surfaces around the kitchen, striped vintage towels and dishcloths, an old antique kitchen clock, or displaying plates on open shelves above a window or doorway. Other accessories might include stoneware pots, glazed earthenware and glass jars. Also you could place a pitcher of fresh-cut flowers to create more cottage charm.

It takes time to create a cottage style for your kitchen. You can not simply find the cottage style all at one time and in one store. The kitchen must look as if it slowly took on this look over a period of time to achieve a more collected look.

Furnishings in a cottage style kitchen can include furniture made from pine, or maple. Furniture detailing is an important element of the cottage style. Furniture can be white painted, or lacquered, can include also such features as curved legs on base cabinetry, and old fashioned moldings around cabinets and tables. Or a large work table that can also be a dining space for the family. Pieces can include a farmhouse style kitchen table with beech spindle style chairs.

A cottage style kitchen range can be used, with a decorative wooden range hood, as well as a large single bowl ceramic sink, or a apron front farm sink.

Knobs figure prominently as the dominant hardware of choice for cottage-style kitchen design. Design elements include porcelain and embossed stoneware, semi-glossy periwinkle blues, creams and whites work well. Also check for woven designs using wire or bamboo. Paint can be used to create a cottage-style kitchen design. The wood flooring can be painted a bold color. Walls can be painted with warm yellows or blues that can be coordinated with the tones and colors of the kitchen cabinets, wall tile, window treatments and other accents in the kitchen.

James Mahoney is the author of many kitchen design articles and has a site about kitchen design ideas at Kitchen Designers Ideas.com. He also publishes a newsletter on kitchen design

Decorating a Small Kitchen

Karin Koch has written Decorating a Small Kitchen and writes "When you're dealing with a small kitchen, you can have a lot of chopped-up places that feel discordant. To combat that jumbled, uncoordinated feeling:

Use the same color in large expanses and different places, such as cabinets, walls, ceilings and shelves. This will make the room seem larger.

Repeat a theme with your accent pieces. You can use grape leaves or one type of plate in varied arrangements.

One area of a kitchen that rarely gets used is the space between the cabinets and the ceiling. To create some visual interest and display lightweight items, you can make a little plate shelf from a piece of floor or ceiling molding. Paint it the same color as the walls so the items you put on top will really stand out. I chose a set of goblets and wine glasses in pewter. I added some plates in warm tones - again all from the same pattern - and clusters of grapes. That builds a pattern with certain types of things repeated around the kitchen in random groupings; it also keeps the plate shelf from looking too heavy and cluttered..

A small kitchen almost requires you to exhibit some things that you might normally keep in cupboards. One great way to do that is with a pot rack. You may have a hard time finding one that's not too big, so look in some non-traditional places. I adapted an old wrought-iron bench, attaching it to the ceiling with molly bolts in place of the original screws that held the seat in place. These old iron benches can be pretty ornate, which actually comes in handy. I ran two large copper pipes through the structure and fashioned some "s" hooks out of smaller copper pipe to hang my cookware. You'll be surprised how good your everyday pots and pans will look hanging from the ceiling, and you'll save cabinet space too.

Unless you only stand about four feet tall, you're going to want something underneath the pot rack. Otherwise you'll be bumping your head - a lot. I was able to find a small table. A chopping block would be nice, but any kind of small table will work. Put wheels on it if you want to move it around. My table has a few drawers for napkins and a shelf down beneath that's great for housing mixing bowls.

Another space saver is a shelf unit. Look for one that takes up as little floor space as possible. I found one that only covers six by eight inches of floor area, but it's nice and tall. You can dress a really plain one up by adding decorative molding to the front edges. Line it up along the edge and point the molding toward the center. Then paint it to match the walls. If you don't have a miter saw to make corners, some lumberyards will do it for a small fee.

Don't forget the space alongside your refrigerator. Just mount a simple hook or two and you have a great place to hang those serving trays that you only use occasionally.

Sometimes what you don't have out is every bit as important as what you do. When we were first married, my husband believed that everything he used regularly should be left out - the toaster and other smaller appliances. I disagreed, so to show my point, everything I used in the kitchen that day I left out. Of course, it didn't take long for my house to look completely trashed. Since then we've put our small appliances away between uses . . . most of them, anyway.

About the Author
Karin Koch is a freelance writer specializing in home decorating and wedding planning. Some of her work can be found at: http://www.decor24.com http://www.weddingfavordiscount.com

Liven Up Your Walls With Decorative Plates

Johann Erickson has written Liven Up Your Walls With Decorative Plates and writes "Decorative plates are often overlooked when decorating a home. Yet, it's the details that really make the elements of a room come together-and decorative plates are a detail present in most rooms. While there are decorative plates that are solely functional in purpose, most have the potential to add to the ambiance of a room. Think about the following wall plate options:

Cover your decorative plates in wallpaper that matches your wall for an understated elegance. You can also use this method to hide outlets on walls that display art.

Wood decorative plates are perfect for a room with a country or colonial flair.

Metal decorative plates come in a variety of textures and materials. Metal wall plates enhance contemporary, Victorian, and rustic decor..

Porcelain decorative plates complement shabby chic, bathrooms, and some Victorian design.

Mirror decorative plates can be used on mirrors, mirrored walls, or even as an eclectic detail in a uniquely decorated room.

Match your decorative plates with cabinets, doorknobs, and furniture hardware. With the wide variety available, you can also tailor them to table lamps and other light fixtures. Since wall plates come in all shapes and sizes, you can match them to the curves of your furniture placement. Matching will cleverly enhance featured pieces in a room without distracting from their appeal.

In addition to decorative plate style, you may want to consider changing the switch itself. Dimmer switches are available as dials, slides, touch pads, and combinations of each. The ability to adjust lighting in each room of your home provides you a way to highlight specific room features or set the appropriate mood.

Decorative plates, often taken for granted, are a versatile design element. They can be romantic, sophisticated, sleek, or fun. First decide what you need your decorative plate to do for a room, and then shop for it as seriously as you would shop for furniture, wall coverings, or carpet.

About The Author
Johann Erickson is the owner of Online Discount Mart (http://www.onlinediscountmart.com). Please email the author and include an active link to this website if you'd like to use this article.
marketing@4intrepid.com

Home Interior Design Tips on Decorating your Space with Wall Art

Claire Bowes has written Home Interior Design Tips on Decorating your Space with Wall Art and writes "How to Decorate your Space with Wall Pictures

If a room in your house lacks character, by simply placing some fine art prints on the walls can actually make quite an impact. Wall pictures are a necessary accessory in your home and are great to tie in with the room's style and color accent. Before you go off to buy some new pictures for your walls there are a few things you need to plan and decide upon. Here is a home interior design guide on how to decorate your space with wall art.

Shop for Wall Art by Room

The kind of home you have and the mood, ambience and style of decor you create, should be perfectly designed to suit your lifestyle. Deciding on a style for your room should be determined by the lifestyle you choose and not by what's the latest home interior design trend..

Whichever room you are wanting to decorate, whether it be your bedroom, living area, kitchen or office space, you need to decide what you want to get out of that space. For example:

do you want to hold dinner parties or entertain?
do you want a quiet retreat to get away from the hustle and bustle?
Is this an area for the kids to play in?
Is this a room for your hobby?
Once you have decided what you want to use the room for, you can now choose a color theme to suit the function of the room. For example, mellow greens and neutrals for your 'quiet retreat room', lively yellow for the kids room, or pale tranquil blue for your office space.

So far we have established the function and color of the room in question, this then gives us the basis on choosing the right art prints for the area.

For example:

bright colorful cartoon pictures for the kids room
mellow pastel floral pictures for your quiet retreat area, or
tranquil landscape and scenic pictures for your office space
Choose your Style

Like paint color, artwork can immediately establish or change a room's mood. Not only can it pull the room together, but you can use it to create a style uniquely your own.

traditional & classic
modern
contemporary
fun & entertaining
casual
romantic
The style of the room is totally dependent on your own personal taste and this is the time when you can inject your own personality into the room through artwork and textured accessories.

Suggested art picture styles:

Fun & Entertaining: Pictures can include bright colors both in the print and on the frame. Fun and entertaining pictures can include kittens and puppies, or comedian actors such as the Three Stooges or Laurel & Hardy.

Modern: With the strong black accents in the framed iron-work and the tapestries, striking black and white photos are a natural choice for a modern and sophisticated look.

Calm Retreat: To reinforce the mood of a nestled, cozy retreat, use artwork with neutral, earthy colors and a horizontal landscape subject.

You can even mix and match different styles to create a unique style of your own. For example, frame traditional black and white photo prints in a modern black iron frame.

Arranging and Hanging your Pictures

In order to get the maximum effect of your wall pictures in terms of adding character and a focal point to the room, you need to decide where and how you want to hang them.

Here are some suggestions to help you decide how to get the best effects from your pictures:-

Modern Gallery Look: To create a modern art gallery feel, particularly nice in hallways, lobbies and stairwells, give each piece ample breathing room. Stand at the center of the first piece and take one swift, or two small steps along the wall. This is a good center for the next piece.

Above a Sofa: When placing art above furniture such as a sofa, you need to hang the picture about six to nine inches above the sofa, or at eye level.

Cluster Arrangements: Tightly group an even number of pictures together to give a statement or a focal point. This works on either large or small wall spaces, depending on the look you want.

In a row: By placing an odd number of pictures in a horizontal line to each other gives balance and the sense of space. This works well in hallways or stairwells.

By deciding where and how to hang your pictures, whether it be a tight cluster or a single print above a sofa, you can then determine the size and shape of the pictures you need to buy.

When you have decided on the room's function, color and style, you are in a much better position to go shopping for wall pictures that fit in with the overall theme.

Summary
Wall pictures are an underestimated home interior design accessory. This is probably because most people do not know what to do with their pictures in order to get the maximum effect in a room. Before you go hanging up your pictures make sure you plan ahead what you want to get out of that room. Decide on the function, style and color of the room first before you buy your artwork. By doing this you are in a much better position to buy the right type of art picture to fit in with the theme and color accent of your room.

About the Author
Claire Bowes is a freelance writer and the owner of flower-pictures-n-posters.com and landscape-pictures-n-posters.com. In addition to fine-art prints, these two sites offer landscape photography prints and flower posters.

Choosing the Perfect Wrought Iron Wall Decor

Choosing the Perfect Wrought Iron Wall Decor was written J.C. Taylor and he writes "Wrought iron has been a major influence when it comes to home décor furnishing products. The influence has been so great that home décor is incomplete without wrought iron accessories. The artistic, long-lasting wrought iron items complete the perfection and creativity of a stylish home. Wrought iron wall decor is one integral part of home decorating.

Wrought iron wall decor includes many designer items that adorn the walls of your rooms. Plaque grills are the most commonly demanded wrought iron wall decor items. Wrought iron plaque grills come in various shapes including circular, semi-circular, dome shaped, rectangular, and square shaped. Another variant of plaque grills are wall sculptures. The other common wrought iron wall décor items include but are not limited to: flower vases, wall hangings, wall art, scroll grills as border to any classy picture, wall shelves, wall mirrors, wall plant racks, wine racks, wall fountains, wall brackets and designer candle scones. Wrought iron wall décor products find their place in your bathroom as a towel rack. Wrought iron utensils holders, wrought iron cup & saucer racks are some common kitchen wall decor items..

When buying wrought iron wall décor products, make sure that they fit well in relation to the size of your wall. Also, see to it that the wall décor you choose complements the rest of the room's design and accessories. If you have a lot of artistic home décor furnishing in your home, then go for a simple design. If you have simple room decor, you can go for more decorative and noticeable designs.

To maintain your wrought iron wall decor regularly inspect your wrought iron products. Even the slightest damage should be addressed immediately. Make sure that you are cleaning your wrought iron wall décor with cleaners that will not hurt the material. After cleaning and drying the wall décor items, you can apply a rust resistant wax at the joints. These items can be touched up with paint when needed. Grit blasting, galvanizing and zinc spray as maintenance methods for wrought iron products should be kept as the last resort. Try chemical or mechanical methods first instead.

Wrought iron wall decor gives meaning to your home décor. Creativity and art begin to flow with so many classic designs around. If you are a connoisseur then your home speaks volumes with your exclusive collection of wrought iron wall décor items. So, why wait, let your walls be the “wall of fame!”

Learn more about home decorating with wrought iron. Find free home decorating tips and information at http://www.wrought-iron-depot.com

Creative Ways to Decorate Your Walls

Kathy Burns-Millyard has written Creative Ways to Decorate Your Walls and writes "Moving into a new house can sometimes cause a quandry. You can stand and stare at large... blank spaces for weeks wondering just what to do with them. These blank spaces are the walls of your new house or apartment.

Most people have a hard time figuring out what to do with their walls, because their thoughts are limited to just paint and pictures. There's actually quite a bit more you can do to decorate your walls though, and here are a few of my favorite tips:

1. Create shadow boxes. These are especially nice to do as remembrances of loved ones who are no longer with us. If you want to create a shadow box for grandparents for instance, but you don't have anything handed down from them that could easily be used in this decoration, try visiting around to yard sales and flea markets. Find items that fit the timeframe of your grandparent's lives, or that remind you of them fondly. Use these items in your shadow boxes, then display them in a nice area of your home to symbolize both the love you had for them, and the legacy they left behind..

2. If you love blankets or quilts, there are some very unique ways to decorate your walls with these. Simply attach pieces of wood to your wall, drill holes in them, and put dowel rods in the holes. On these rods you can hang your quilts or blankets just like you can on a regular quilt rack, except this way they decorate your walls. Placing the items just above a sofa is a great way to keep blankets nearby when you watch movies or snuggle up next to the fire. Also, if you enjoy quilting or sewing, you may want to use a similar structure on the wall to hold bolts of fabric for your creations. The walls look lovely, and you're also organizing your home!

3. Here are just a few other ideas: You can use old windows and some curtains to make a faux window in a room without enough windows. Your can use old picture frames to "frame" an oil painting or collage or quotations. Using small vases, you can have fresh flowers hanging on your wall. You could also make part of your wall into corkboard or a set of box frames so that you can display your children's artwork.

So there you have multiple, easy, and inexpensive ways to uniquely decorate your walls!

© 2005, Kathy Burns-Millyard.

This article is provided courtesy of The Do It Yourself Home Decorating Network - http://www.diyhomedecorating.com - a large home decorating website featuring articles, tips, advice, and popular decor shopping. This article may be freely published on any website, as long as the author, copyright, website address and link, and this notice are left intact.

7 Budget Kitchen Decorating Ideas

7 Budget Kitchen Decorating Ideas was written by James Mahoney and he writes "Despite what you may read in the trendiest kitchen design magazines, updating the look of your kitchen really does not require that your spend a lot of time and money. There are some simple and inexpensive ways to give your kitchen a brand new look.

Some small change here and there that you can make in your kitchen can still create a big effect on how your kitchen looks. You can get ideas about what you would like incorporate into your kitchen decorating and remodeling project from books, magazines, and internet sites dealing with kitchen design ideas.

There are 7 relatively low cost kitchen-decorating ideas to create a beautiful kitchen:

1. Replacing the cabinet doors and fronts. Then you can reface the remaining fixtures. This will greatly change the whole look and feel of your kitchen..

2. Painting your cabinets white and changing the hardware, such as knobs, handles, or pulls.

3. Using solid core MFD doors, which are medium density fiberboard or timber. They can be fitted to a solid door base. This type of door can be painted to create any look you may want.

4. Using color to renovate the kitchen is another example of inexpensive kitchen decorating. You can paint your walls and cabinets. When it comes to painting your existing cabinetry, you can use decorative finishes. Some examples are creating a distressed finish to add an aged look, and faux and glazed finishes. These are all simple to do and cost effective.

5. Another area of the kitchen you can easily update is the faucet and sink. It is possible to locate moderately priced sinks that can cost from $50 $300. They are also available in many colors, and styles. Porcelain, stainless steel, and acrylic are the materials that are available for sinks. For faucets, you will find that they are available in many styles and finishes, and depending on the type of faucet can range in price from $50 to$750.

6. Another great affordable idea in kitchen decorating is to add a kitchen island. Kitchen islands are great for adding more counter space to the kitchen and provide a gathering place. If you do not have enough money or space to add a permanent kitchen island, but would like to have the advantages of one, you might consider as an alternative getting a kitchen cart. A kitchen cart can have wheels for rolling around, as well as have drawers, shelves, and places to hang utensils. Because they are on wheels they can be cleared out the way.

7. If your kitchen-decorating budget is so small that you can only afford to remodel a small area of your kitchen you might consider adding a kitchen backsplash. A new kitchen backsplash can really dress up a drab, uninspiring kitchen. Kitchen backsplashes are available in so many different styles, colors, and materials. The materials used for backsplashes can include, wood, porcelain, natural stone, glass, stainless steel, and even wallpaper. The costs vary depending on the material you select.

So you can see that redecorating your kitchen can be a simple thing like changing the hardware on your existing cabinetry or painting the walls. Just one small change can do a lot to make your kitchen look brand new.

James Mahoney is the author of many kitchen design articles and has a site about kitchen design ideas at Kitchen Designers Ideas.com. He also publishes a newsletter on kitchen design.

Tips For A Well Chosen Fireplace

Tips For A Well Chosen Fireplace was written by Dalvin Rumsey and he writes "Imagine a cold winter evening...you and your loved one sitting by the fireplace with the fire making the room all cozy and warm...there is no single person on Earth who wouldn't like such an evening! The bad thing in all of this is the fact that you must first choose the right fireplace for your home. Only then will you be able to enjoy the coziness of the fire in your own home.

The fireplace you choose to install depends on your type of home, your energy needs and your design preferences. These are the things to think about before making the final decision. The masonry fireplaces are the ones to use if you want to heat an entire small home. The new models are much more energy-efficient than they used to be in the past, when they provided more ambience than warmth. In terms of prices, there is no general rule, as the cost can vary depending on the type of material used for the fireplace face. Another factor to determine the price of such a fireplace is the hearth. May it be made out of brick, stone, concrete, tile, marble or wood, these all play their part in the final cost of the fireplace.

Another type of fireplace that is commonly used nowadays is the prefabricated fireplace. Also known as zero-clearance fireplaces, they are highly insulated, so they can be installed within an inch of combustible materials, such as wall framing. The prefabricated fireplaces are much lighter in weight, faster and easier to install than standard masonry units. This is why they are used almost all newly built houses. Another advantage of the prefabricated fireplaces is the fact that they are very efficient in terms of energy. The most modern fireplaces of this kind are prefabricated from metal and installed in wood-frame walls.

Should you decide for a wood stove, you must be aware of the fact that this is actually a metal container for the fire. A wood stove has an inlet for combustion air and an outlet for combustion gases or smoke and it is made from cast iron or brick-lined, welded plate steel. Modern stoves allow the amount of combustion air that feeds the flame to be controlled, so that it burns more efficiently than any other traditional fireplace.

So, there are plenty of fireplaces to choose from. The decision is up to you!


About the Author
Home Improvement Bid Site Need help with a home project? Find Local Home Service Contractor .

Living Room Decorating Ideas

Living Room Decorating Ideas was written by Susan du Plessis and she writes "Your home is your sanctuary and you're getting tired of the boring atmosphere you're living in. The good news is that you don't have to spend all your money re-decorating your home. Here are five simple tips to help you jazz up and snazzy up your living room.

GET A FRESH COAT

There's absolutely nothing like a fresh coat of paint to brighten up and old, boring room. There are great paint techniques that you can apply to completely change the look and feel of the room. Remember to keep the color calm and make sure it matches your things.

You can also go bold and daring by painting one wall dramatic and keeping the rest of the panels easy-going..

RE-ARRANGE

Play with your furniture and position it in different places to get a "new look". If you have a long living room and your furniture looks lost in it, try moving the couches into a U-shape to make it seem fuller and also create a cozier environment.

NEW PAINTINGS AND DÉCOR

A new painting and some candles will make a world of difference to a bland and boring room. There are many stores that offer affordable decorating goodies. If you can't afford all the décor you want, buy it in small batches, and get your absolute must-have item first.

There is so much you can do with a room without stretching your credit. Many stores have a lot of mix-and-match options that can be combined to create a crafty, trendy look.

GET RUGGED

A new rug is a great way to change the look and feel of the room. It can also transform it from cold and open to warm and inviting. Put it under the coffee table in your living room for a great "homey" effect.

COLOR WITH CUSHIONS

Cushions are relatively inexpensive and can really turn the room around. For added color get a matching couch throw and play with various styles. You'll be amazed at the difference.


About the Author
Visit Susan's website A 2 Z of Home and Family for more decorating ideas. *** This article can be freely used as long as a link to "A 2 Z of Home and Family" (http://a2z.learninginfo.org/home-family/) is provided.

Nursery Decorating Ideas: Creating a Timeless Retreat

Nursery Decorating Ideas: Creating a Timeless Retreat was written by NurseryPosters.com and they writes "Decorating a baby room is a wonderful opportunity to create a carefree hideaway - a place of slumber and lullabies.

BABY ROOM THEMES?

From Tropical Jungle to Noah's Ark, Teddy Bears to Winnie the Pooh: There are many delightful baby room themes to choose from - any one will spark enthusiasm and generate exciting nursery decorating ideas.

But decorating the baby room can be daunting: There's so much choice - nursery bedding sets, furnishings, nursery wall décor and accessories of all kinds! Also young children can soon outgrow even the most enchanting baby room themes..

NURSERY DÉCOR?

Co-ordinated nursery bedding sets and matching accessories can make easy work of decorating a baby room, ensuring nursery décor is effective and harmonious.

But mixing and matching presents the opportunity for more imaginative nursery decorating ideas - and it's fun! The key to success with 'mix and match' nursery décor is to select elements - baby nursery pictures, fabrics and accessories - that share color and pattern elements.

Basing nursery décor on neutral wall and floor coverings enables endless variations: Keeping baby room decorating ideas flexible makes it easy to adapt to a young child's developing interests.

By changing just the accessories - nursery bedding sets, pictures and rugs - different nursery decorating ideas can be developed without all the upheaval of a major redecorating project. For a while, at least, baby room themes can grow with your child!

COLOR SCHEMES?

Young children love bright primary colors but large areas can be overwhelming. Decorating the baby room with a subtle, calm color scheme is usually a better choice. Introducing warm colors - rose, peach or primrose - into your baby room decorating ideas will help create a feeling of coziness.

While decorating the baby room with the cool colors - aqua, mint or sky blue - can create a feeling of spaciousness. But it is probably best to keep ideas based on this color range for a room with a warm, sunny aspect.

Touches of bright primary colors bring extra interest and visual stimulation. Introducing just small amounts with baby nursery pictures, nursery bedding sets, toys and accessories can transform a room. These are the finishing touches that can bring nursery décor alive!

NURSERY WALL DÉCOR?

From a series of framed art prints to big cheerful posters, a collage of birthday cards to giant stick-ups - nursery wall décor can create an interesting focus and highlight of color.

A special picture may provide inspiration for some great baby nursery ideas and the basis for a subtle color scheme.

Pictures can be used to develop baby room themes, giving them added dimension: Baby nursery pictures of animals can extend a Tropical Jungle theme - Paddington Bear pictures a Teddy Bear theme.

Look for baby nursery pictures that you find inspiring - they can be a valuable source for interesting nursery decorating ideas. But, best of all, good nursery wall décor will help to create a special place that excites whimsical fantasy and imaginative storytelling - the essence of a magical childhood!

About The Author
Writer and designer of elementary educational materials with particular interest in art education. Webmaster of www.NurseryPosters.com
suzanne@takingwing.co.uk

Kitchen Island Design Ideas - The Look, Size, And Features

Kitchen Island Design Ideas - The Look, Size, And Features was written by Steve Ecclestone and he writes "Kitchen island design ideas not only include choosing the right look for your kitchen but choosing the correct size for your floor plan and the correct features to satisfy your needs.

Fortunately, because 80% of all home buyers consider kitchen islands to be essential, manufacturers offer islands in a design and style to suit nearly every taste.

You don't have to be a new home buyer to consider a kitchen island, though.

Older homes with awkward kitchen floor plans or oversized kitchens, apartments with limited or open-space design, or renovated kitchens with odd dimensions may all inspire a kitchen island design idea that will benefit the overall design..

A Style For Every Size The dimensions of a kitchen are an overriding concern in choosing a kitchen island. Large islands are very helpful in creating a cooking 'room' within the room that separates the cooking area from the eating area.

Additional options like breakfast bars and installed appliances can help achieve the 'triangle' design of sink-stove-refrigerator that is considered one of the top kitchen design ideas.

Apartments and condominiums with open-space design can use a larger kitchen island to divide the kitchen area from other living areas.

Some kitchen islands are wheeled and can be moved between meals to convert needed space into multi-use areas.

Smaller islands are very versatile, particularly if wheeled, and can be used where large islands won't fit; often two small islands work better than one large island.

Islands are available in many styles and designs that are sure to complement your own design ideas.

Contemporary, Traditional, American Folk and French Country, Avant Garde or Hip, and others are all popular styles.

Many kitchen islands are wooden and use Northern Maple, Red Oak, Poplar, Birch, and plantation-grown exotic woods, but others are constructed of stainless steel, some combining wood with stainless steel.

Island tops are usually hard wood, granite or marble, stainless steel, or butcher block, which is usually Hardrock Maple fastened end or edge grain to prevent cracking and warping.

Steve Ecclestone is webmaster at Kitchen Island Ideas

The Benefits of Wood-Pellet Stoves

The Benefits of Wood-Pellet Stoves was written by e-woodstoves.com and they writes "Wood-pellet stoves were invented in the 1980's and have gained in popularity in the last few years. These are small electric stoves that burn small pieces of recycled sawdust that are compressed into pellets. There are a number of advantages to using wood-pellet stoves. They are extremely efficient, produce very little waste, and use inexpensive fuel.

Wood-pellet stoves are fueled by tightly compressed pieces of sawdust. They have complicated machinery that adds new pellets to the fire when more fuel is needed. The user merely has to add the pellets to the hopper, and the mechanical auger moves pellets to the fire as needed..

Wood-pellet stoves have average efficiency ratings of 80- to 85-percent. They heat more efficiently than bigger and more expensive gas heaters. These stoves have negative pressure systems that propel the hot air they produced outward, making the heat go farther than it would naturally. The pellets are burned so completely that they hardly give off any smoke, meaning that it is not necessary to build a large chimney to channel smoke out of the home. Wood-pellet stoves only need a small pipe leading outside to dispose of excess smoke.

Since wood stoves are so efficient, they hardly produce any waste. An entire 40-pound bag of pellets produces less than a cup of ashes. People can use a wood pellet stove for months without having to empty the ashes.

The pellets used as fuel are made of sawdust from lumberyards and wood mills. The sawdust is compressed at high temperatures and is not held together by any type of chemicals or glue. A 40-pound bag of pellets sells for less than five dollars, with discounts available for people who buy in bulk.

Wood-pellet stoves are a great alternative to gas or electric heating systems. They are economical and can produce enough heat to warm an entire house.

Wood Stoves Info provides detailed information about outdoor and antique wood stoves, wood-pellet stoves, and wood cook stoves, as well as wood stove inserts, installation, and manufacturers. Wood Stoves Info is affiliated with Business Plans by Growthink

5 Ways In Which You Can Make Simple Changes To Your Home Decorating

5 Ways In Which You Can Make Simple Changes To Your Home Decorating was written by Bonnie P. Carrier and writes "Home decorating, ever wanted to try it, but hesitated because of time constraints or budget concerns. The following ideas will not only give instant results, but more importantly fit into any budget.

1. Changing the Look of Your Walls

Adding a new color or changing the texture, can give the room a completely new appearance and that may be the only decorating change that is necessary. The easiest option is to paint, and with the color choices available, the possibilities are endless. Another consideration would be wallpaper; the only problem you may have is choosing a design. If on the other hand, only a little something extra is needed a simple stencil design might just do the trick. Any of these ideas can be used either individually or in combination with each other..

2. Look to Your Windows For a Whole New View

Changing your window treatments is probably the easiest of any home decorating projects. The choices range from styles that include drapes, tab-top, cafe and shears, backgrounds of solid colors, floral and stripes, fabrics that include silk, cotton, lace or velvet. The most economical is ready-made; they are very affordable therefore giving you the opportunity to make changes more often.

3. Accessories Make Your Decorating Complete

Some of the more common are area rugs, wall art, lamps, pillows and cozy throws. Items for the kitchen make beautiful additions, for example; canisters, dinnerware, dishtowels or decorative bottles filled with oils and vinegar. Add a little whimsy with oversized ceramic figures like roosters, or the adorable pigs holding chalkboard menus. Bathrooms are another area for pretty accessories like decorative soaps placed in a bowl or basket; towels come in so many colors and designs now that they alone make great accessories. Last but not least do not forget candles and bowls of potpourri.

4. Collectibles Bring a Personal Touch to Home Decorating

Collectibles can be anything involving three or more of the same thing, or items that are related. This can include porcelain dolls, Christmas villages, collector plates and who can resist those adorable little faces of Boyds Bears. Maybe items with a nostalgic feel like tin lunchboxes, cookie jars or salt & peppershakers stir up special memories of childhood.

5. Updating Your Furniture

One of the easiest ways to accomplish this is with slipcovers; they come in a large variety of colors and patterns. Pieces like end tables, hutches or even a dinning table and chairs can be refinished for a new look. One way is with paint. Pick a color to coordinate with your room or choose something bright and whimsical. Another option would be to use stain, stains come in a multitude of shades; they can also come in colors.

So, if you are ready to give some decorating a go, try these basic changes to start. Over time, more things can be changed but for right now, simple changes can make a big difference.

This article is shareware. Give this article away for free on your site, or include it as part of any paid package as long as the entire article is left intact including this notice. Copyright © 2004 Bonnie Carrier

About The Author
Bonnie P. Carrier is the creator of Savvy Home Decorating. She is the mother to two grown daughters and a very spoiled 4yr old Blue Merle Sheltie named Toby. Having been a homemaker for over 23yrs has provided years of experience in budget decorating and organization. Stop by Savvy Home Decorating - www.savvy-home-decorating.com - for ideas and tips on budget decorating: bonnie@savvy-home-decorating.com

Fireplace Decorating Tips for Easter

Fireplace Decorating Tips for Easter was written by Susan Penney and she writes "Sure you decorate your fireplace and mantel for the winter holidays, but don’t forget this important focal point in your room as Spring approaches. Here are some nearly-instant ideas for springtime and Easter fireplace decorating:

Daffodils in crystal or glass vases on each end of your mantel bespeak the coming of Spring. Tie a wired chiffon ribbon in a soft spring hue in a bow around each vase for a nice touch.

March a line of fluffy chicks across your mantel. Five or more chicks, whether stuffed toys, porcelain hens, or craft store chickens, make a cute display..

And speaking of stuffed toys, now is a great time to find those old stuffed bunnies and ducks and turn them into mantel ornaments. Add Easter grass, and scatter decorated eggs along the mantel to keep them company.

Tie wired gingham-checked ribbons into bows, and attach them to the edge of your mantel. Let the ends of each bow hang down various lengths from one to three feet. At the end of each ribbon, open a plastic egg, tape the ribbon’s end inside the egg, and force the egg shut. This creates a set of eggs dangling at different heights.

Bring out your glass, crystal, white, and pastel candle holders of different heights for your mantel. Select a trio of springtime colors such as lavender, pink and eggshell or aqua, pale green, and soft yellow. Use pastel candles in some of the candle holders. In others, perch decorated Easter eggs (real, plastic, wooden, or glass).

The ideas above are great for your fireplace’s mantel, but what’s a terrific way to decorate your fireplace itself? Fireplace candelabra are the perfect accessories. And using candles in the shape of decorated Easter eggs in your fireplace candelabra is a super-simple, but visually dramatic way to decorate for the season. (Just don’t be too surprised if the Easter Bunny replaces one of the candle-eggs with a chocolate one!)

Susan Penney appreciates simple ways to make our homes renewing spaces for our families. She invites you to visit http://www.FireplaceMall.com for fireplace accessories to serve your fire-less or your fire-filled fireplace.

Fireplace Decorating Ideas For Your Home

Fireplace Decorating Ideas For Your Home was written by Charles Kassotis and writes "Does your home have a fireplace that you are currently not using very often? Or are you thinking about adding a fireplace, faux or real, to one of the levels in your house? If so, here are some ideas for decorating your fireplace to bring out its natural beauty and charm.

How you decorate your fireplace will depend in part on the room where it is located. A bedroom fireplace may look quite different from one in the family room or den. Part of your decorating decision will be based on the room and its tone. For example, your bedroom fireplace should have a cozy, intimate look with a décor that is special for the occupants of the room. If one or both spouses like cats, use cat-decorated accent pillows with a matching throw for a rocking chair on the hearth. Add a coordinating mantel runner, and you have a total look, especially with a nearby wall picture or two of a related theme..

A living room fireplace can become the focal point of the area. Accompanying floral arrangements sitting in an unused fireplace center or on either side of the hearth add a warm touch. Fireplace tools, like tongs, a brush, and a poker for stirring the embers come in many designs and styles to match the room’s decorating scheme. You can get a Mediterranean, early American, or French provincial style to suit the mood of your living room. Adorn the mantel with period antiques or accents to add color and design.

Some people even have kitchen fireplaces on which they cook or hang decorator pots and kettles. Baskets hanging on the mantel and pewter urns across the top help to make that type of fireplace inviting and attractive. A cat, ceramic or otherwise, adds even more charm.

During the holidays, a fireplace offers the perfect place to hang Christmas stockings or holiday greeting cards. Some families stack gifts on the hearth or arrange Christmas decorations for a magical display area in keeping with the holiday spirit. Children sometimes put out a plate of cookies and a cup of cocoa for Santa. A wreath above the mantel is a nice seasonal touch.

When you arrange a fireplace in your den or home office, it could look semi-formal, with paperweights, books, and quill pens for effect. But it also may have accents like your favorite coffee cup, a planner, and an afghan quilt draped over a nearby rack when you stretch out on the leather sofa for a snooze or to catch up on your reading. Photos or busts of famous people and admirable mentors can round out the various types of décor you may want to include in your personal workspace area fireplace.

Your fireplace serves as the heart of any home, and particularly the room that it occupies. Use your creative talents to devise a decorating scheme to make your fireplace a showcase of the things that are special to you, as well as those that make a visitor feel welcome.

Fireplace Decorating Ideas and information of all types can be found at The Fireplace Directory

Home Decorating The Smaller Place

Home Decorating & The Smaller Place was written by Big Things Come In Small Packages" We're all familiar with this quote, it's normally associated with gifts not home decorating, but it should be.

A one or two bedroom house, apartment, condo or townhouse can be just as impressive and grand as something with fifteen bathrooms, Wow, imaging having to clean all those, I have enough trouble with two.

One interesting things I have found from past experience is that decorating a smaller place is actually easier, not to mention less expensive..

Whether your currently living in a small space or downsizing - that's another one of those trendy "buzz" words, which simply means your moving into something smaller - planning how your going to decorate or redecorate is a good idea.

You may think because it's smaller, having large pieces is out of the question. Not true, having oversized furniture is not going to make your rooms appear smaller, what it will do is give a warm inviting feeling.

Of course the layout and size of a room will determine how many pieces can comfortably go into it. After all, you may be looking for drama and comfort, but you still need to be able to maneuver around.

This also applies to accessories; it's better to have a few large dramatic pieces as opposed to a lot of small items, which can tend to turn into clutter and dust collectors.

The exception to this would be with collections. But again you want to have places to showcase them like glass front hutches, cabinets, bookcases or shelves.

Another decorating challenge can be in warming up your new place. This normally can easily be achieved by adding color with paint.

Now that's all fine and good unless you happen to be renting and your landlord say's "Paint, oh no". That's OK, color can be added in a number of other ways.

Several examples: Window treatments - Furniture fabric -Accent pillows - Area rugs - Wall art - Plants & Flowers

Storage can be another issue in a smaller space, there just never seems to be enough.

If you're buying new furniture or deciding on which pieces to bring from your current home, look for ones that can perform double duty.

For example: Instead of the standard coffee table, look for one with a flip top or shelves underneath. Cedar chests, blanket chests or trunks can also be substituted.

Place an armoire intended for the bedroom in the living room it's the perfect storage place for remotes, magazines, extra bedding, kitchen linen or any of those pesky little things you just can't seem to find a place for.

A small floor cabinet you might have used in a bathroom can become an end table. Most of these come with drawers, shelves or both.

Decorative stacking boxes or even old suitcases not only make for great storage, but they also become terrific accessories. Plastic storage boxes come in a variety of sizes, colors and are inexpensive.

They can be stacked on shelves in a closet or cabinet, even into drawers. Clear smaller sizes are perfect storage for shoes, winter gloves, pictures or how about extension cords, nails, packages of hooks or hand tools.

Larger sizes can keep extra winter coats, blankets, odd season clothes or seasonal decorations neat and in one place.

Baskets and hampers are another option.

Kids rooms are always in need of extra places for all their treasures, plastic milk crates are perfect for them. They come in many bright brilliant colors. One suggestion, if you are planning on stacking the crates and have small children it would be beneficial to secure them to the wall.

Plastic shelving units, which can be found in most discount stores, are perfect for mounting on the backs of doors or on the wall in closets.

These come in especially handy in the kitchen for holding extra soda bottles, canned goods, paper towel etc.

Well, I think you've gotten the idea, look around and use your imagination; you will be surprised with what you can come up with.

Moving into and decorating a small space can be challenging, but with a little planning it can be just as beautiful as any large house. And in the end, size really doesn't matter, if it's filled with the people and things you love, then you have successfully created a home.

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

Copyright © 2005 bonnie carrier.
Bonnie P. Carrier is the creator of Savvy Home Decorating. She is the mother to two grown daughters and a very spoiled 4yr old Blue Merle Sheltie named Toby.

Stop by Savvy Home Decorating - http://www.savvy-home-decorating.com - for ideas and tips on budget decorating:

How to Decorate Cottage Style Homes

Rustic Country Decor - How to Decorate Cottage Style Homes was written by David Buster and he writes "Rustic country decor and how to decorate cottage style homes are extensions of American country style decorating. In addition, traditions are borrowed from French, English and some Swedish country looks. Rustic country decor can be defined as coarse, charmingly simple, unfussy, unfinished and yet with endearing qualities. Rustic country decorating includes the use of natural woods, aged surfaces, rough finishes and simple lines. Cottage style homes are comfortable, modest, quaint homes that can be made of thick stone or log wood.

Floors in rustic country decor and cottage style homes are made with stone or wood materials. Wooden floors were traditionally constructed with boards that were bare and simply waxed and hand-polished (high-gloss varnishes did not exist). Sometimes the boards were painted with light colors. If you like floor coverings, use oriental rugs and throws for visual warmth and color. Rustic country decor is about handcrafted objects, simplicity, furnishings that you enjoy and connecting back to nature..

Rustic cottage furniture is commonly made with pine and perhaps painted with hand-painted designs such as flowers, birds, animals, country scenery or leaves. Use ladderback chairs, rocking chairs, benches, wicker furniture and Windsor chairs. A large rectangular table made of pine is a good option for your kitchen or dining room table. To give your furniture a rustic look, brush a coat of paint on the furniture piece, then rub most of the paint off. After it dries, apply wood stain unevenly for an older weathered appearance. It will be perfect and rustic looking!

Baskets can be used to store wood, pine cones, flowers, plants and needlework. Brass candle holders, oil or kerosene lamps, sconces, hurricane lamps, tin lanterns, recessed ceiling fixtures or a vintage wrought-iron or metal chandelier provide successful lighting for rustic country decor and cottage style homes. Colors used in rustic country decor or cottage style homes are neutral tones ranging from white to bone, earth tones, red barn, blues and greens.

For rustic country decor in the kitchen, use open shelves, hutches, buffets, plate racks and cupboards for storage. Often, country kitchen storage is crammed with stoneware pots, plain glazed earthenware and glass jars. Kitchen pots should be made of copper, steel or cast iron -- cookware tends to be large and plain. Use open shelving in the rustic country kitchen to display plates, dishes and dinnerware collections. Natural woods, light colors and bright fabrics work great for window treatments. Adding a rustic butcher block island creates a wonderful visual effect as well as provides useful functionality.

A rustic country decor bathroom has neutral tones or soft colored walls, antique-looking lighting, and wooden antiques or antique reproduction cabinets and vanity. Knowing how to decorate cottage style homes and bathrooms can result in creating a calm and elegant atmosphere. Clawfoot tubs, pedestal sinks, country style antique brass faucets and old-fashioned country cabinets provide the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to spend time there. Plain white towels are recommended instead of patterned or bright modern patterns. Use wicker or wire baskets to keep your sponges, loofas and shampoos handy near the tub or shower.

Understanding how to decorate cottage style homes means including items like quilts, antique furniture or reproductions, flea-market pieces, trunks, chests, armoires, stenciling, wallpaper, adirondack chairs, flower wreaths and bistro chairs. These types of elements give cottage style homes the kind of rustic country decor that is simpler, very personal and warmly inviting.

Whether in a seaside setting, an urban environment, a countryside location or a wooded mountain retreat, cottage style homes are cozy and unassuming, combining the past with the present. Read all you can find and learn what creating the rustic country cottage means to you no matter where it's located. Enjoy expressing your personality and showing what the definition of home means to you.

Copyright 2005 InfoSearch Publishing
David Buster is VP of InfoSearch Publishing and webmaster of http://www.yourdreamloghome.com - visit the website and learn more about rustic country home decor and design, rustic kitchens and bathrooms, log cabins, fireplaces and firewood and much more.

Five Simple Changes To Your Home Decorating

Five Simple Changes To Your Home Decorating was written by Bonnie P. Carrier and writes "Home decorating, ever wanted to try it, but hesitated because of time constraints or budget concerns. The following ideas will not only give instant results, but more importantly fit into any budget.

1. Changing the Look of Your Walls

Adding a new color or changing the texture, can give the room a completely new appearance and that may be the only decorating change that is necessary.

The easiest option is to paint, and with the color choices available, the possibilities are endless. Another consideration would be wallpaper; the only problem you may have is choosing a design..

If on the other hand, only a little something extra is needed a simple stencil design might just do the trick. Any of these ideas can be used either individually or in combination with each other.

2. Look to Your Windows For a Whole New View

Changing your window treatments is probably the easiest of any home decorating projects.

The choices range from styles that include drapes, tab-top, cafe and shears, backgrounds of solid colors, floral and stripes, fabrics that include silk, cotton, lace or velvet.

The most economical is ready-made; they are very affordable therefore giving you the opportunity to make changes more often.

3. Accessories Make Your Decorating Complete

Some of the more common are area rugs, wall art, lamps, pillows and cozy throws.

Items for the kitchen make beautiful additions, for example; canisters, dinnerware, dishtowels or decorative bottles filled with oils and vinegar.

Add a little whimsy with oversized ceramic figures like roosters, or the adorable pigs holding chalkboard menus.

Bathrooms are another area for pretty accessories like decorative soaps placed in a bowl or basket; towels come in so many colors and designs now that they alone make great accessories.

Last but not least do not forget candles and bowls of potpourri

4. Collectibles Bring a Personal Touch to Home Decorating

Collectibles can be anything involving three or more of the same thing, or items that are related.

This can include porcelain dolls, Christmas villages, collector plates and who can resist those adorable little faces of Boyds Bears.

Maybe items with a nostalgic feel like tin lunch boxes, cookie jars or salt & pepper shakers stir up special memories of childhood

5. Updating Your Furniture

One of the easiest ways to accomplish this is with slipcovers; they come in a large variety of colors and patterns.

Pieces like end tables, hutches or even a dinning table and chairs can be refinished for a new look.

One way is with paint. Pick a color to coordinate with your room or choose something bright and whimsical. Another option would be to use stain, stains come in a multitude of shades; they can also come in colors.

So, if you are ready to give some decorating a go, try these basic changes to start. Over time, more things can be changed but for right now, simple changes can make a big difference.

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

Bonnie P. Carrier is the creator of Savvy Home Decorating. She is the mother to two grown daughters and a very spoiled 4yr old Blue Merle Sheltie named Toby.

Stop by Savvy Home Decorating -http://www.savvy-home-decorating.com - for ideas and tips on budget decorating:

Granite Countertop Colors

Granite Countertop Colors was written by E-granitecountertops.com and they writes "Granite, like marble and other stones, is as old as the earth. Granite is the second hardest stone (diamond being the first) and is created from molten rock.

It is found world wide, in countries such as Africa, Asia, Europe and the United States. In addition to its strength, granite is a very beautiful stone that adds color and warmth to a room. A frequent choice of designers for decades, granite countertops have now become popular with the public. There are literally hundreds of granite countertop colors including whites, browns, reds, greens, blues and black. The variations of the minerals in each base color creates hundreds more possible variations on the basic colors..

Home remodelers and home builders have experienced an explosion in the demand for granite countertops in kitchens and bathrooms. The beauty and warmth of granite makes it an ideal material for aesthetic appeal in home design. The natural beauty found in granite countertop colors complement any most tone of wood or style of cabinetry from rustic country to more contemporary styles.

Brown and beige tones are the most popular, as they work well with many kitchen color schemes and allows for flexibility in future redecorating. Today, the black and blue colors are becoming increasingly popular, with prices that reflect the demand. Some of the granite colors exhibit ""movement"" or a design within the natural color, while others possess small patterns. The combination of color and movement means that no two countertops look alike.

Opinions regarding the color that is best for a kitchen will vary. Dark cabinets can be warmed up with a light colored stone, while light colored cabinets can be anchored with a dark stone. When choosing the granite that will be added to a kitchen décor, it is best not to make selections from "chips" that the decorator or major retailer has on hand. There is so much variation in the color and movement in each stone that it is important to go to the supplier and look at each slab. The slab needs to be reserved at the time of decision, or it may not be available at a later time.

When shopping for granite countertop colors, it's not possible to locate a match for a specific name of a color found at a model home or mentioned in a decorating magazine. There is not a set list of names, or industry entity that regulates the names to be used. The country of origin will have its own name for each color, and then each of the suppliers, fabricators, installers and retailers will also have their own names. The numerous variations of color in each slab creates additional opportunities for new names. It takes research and visits to the suppliers to help simplify the process. Remember, it's not the name of the granite color that matters, it's the mineral qualities present in the stone.

Granite Countertops provides detailed information on granite kitchen and tile countertops, advice on installing and cleaning granite countertops, information on price and locations to purchase discount granite counter tops, and more. Granite Countertops is the sister site of Kitchen Sinks Web.

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Conservatory Furniture - Hints and Tips

Conservatory Furniture - Hints and Tips was written by Barry Dunlop and he writes "No conservatory is complete without beautiful conservatory furniture to relax in. This article reveals some of the important issues to consider while selecting furniture for your conservatory or sunroom.

Your conservatory is a light and airy structure, that's comfortable and yet sheltered against the weather. You can use it for all sorts of activities, like entertaining friends, relaxing after a hard day's work or playing with the kids. It is a room that draws the garden into your home. The correct choice of furniture will mean that your conservatory is used to it's fullest potential..

Top Tips for Selecting Conservatory Furniture

If you use cane furniture in your conservatory or sunroom check with the manufacturer whether it is also suitable for use in the garden as well. This way you will get double usage out of it.

Cover your furniture when not in use, whether it's outside in the garden or in the conservatory.

Choose a pattern for your cushions you know you can live with for a good number of years.

If you have a smaller conservatory, choose furniture that is compact with cushions in neutral colours. It will make your conservatory look more spacious.

Check with the manufacturer whether you can remove the cushion covers for (dry) cleaning.

To reduce fading of your conservatory furniture and also to reduce heat in your conservatory, consider putting up sun blinds. That way you can enjoy your conservatory all year long without having to worry about fading of your furniture cushions.

See your conservatory as an extension to your room or kitchen. Use colours that blend in with the rest of your colour scheme.

Make sure that your conservatory cane furniture and its cushions are fire retardant. Just check with the manufacturer.

Cane (Rattan) is the most popular material used conservatories today. The main qualities of cane are elasticity, lightness, durability and toughness and therefore cane is used in a lot of ways. Think of baskets, hats, kitchen utensils, chairs seats, and, of course, whole pieces of furniture. Even bridges have been known to be made entirely out of cane.

Other materials used in the construction of furniture for conservatories and sunrooms are: Wicker, Cast Iron, Hardwood, Glass, Stone and Terracotta.

Barry Dunlop is the creator of Conservatory-Cane-Furniture.co.uk - a website that includes an online gallery of conservatory furniture, details of mail-order service plus maintenance information, and hints and tips. Find out more at his website: http://www.conservatory-cane-furniture.co.uk

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Tips for Taking Care of Fine Wood Furniture
Choosing Conservatory Furniture
Custom Slipcovers Can Give Your Furniture A Stylish New Look
Furniture Placement Secrets

Caring for Your Wood Furniture

Caring for Your Wood Furniture was written by BatSheva Vaknin and he writes "There is nothing like wood furniture to add elegance and beauty to a home. Whether it is a thick, all-natural butchers block table, an Art Deco wooden dresser, a simple mahogany dining room table or a sleek, modern coffee table, wood furniture is a staple in homes across America and the world. Make sure your wood tables, vanities and dressers stay gorgeous for generations to come with these simple solutions and guidelines.

Stain, Stain, Go Away!

Ever gasped after a child inadvertently left a giant scratch in the surface of your dining room table? Or cringed when a well-meaning adult accidentally knocked over a drink onto your beautiful wood coffee table? Well, fear not. One of the best attributes of wood furniture is that it is simple to touch up or renew its original luster..

Small nicks and scratches can usually be disguised with the help of a store-bought scratch cover product. For larger scratches, try using a felt tip pen or shoe polish in a color closely matched to the finish of the furniture piece. Shoe polish applicator bottles filled with the stain work well for the cover-up job, as do Sharpie markers. Coloring in the scratch is easy and surprisingly effective.

Get rid of pesky water spots on your wood furniture by allowing the spots to dry completely, then rubbing real mayonnaise onto it with a soft cloth, until the spots disappear. Erase color rings left on tables by cups and glasses with a homemade mixture of cigarette ashes and cooking oil. Prep the stain first by scrubbing it with an abrasive pad or sandpaper. Then, rub the oil and ash concoction into the wood.

And what about candle wax, marring the beautiful finish of your wood dining room table? Wait until the wax cools, then apply ice. Once the wax becomes extremely hard and brittle, gently scrape it off with a plastic spatula. Finally, polish the table with a rich cream polish, and buff away any residue.

Remove or Disguise Scratches and Stains

Problem: Solution:
Nicks, Scratches Magic Marker or Shoe Polish
Water Spots Mayonnaise
Color Rings Sandpaper, Ashes and Oil
Wax Ice

An Ounce of Prevention, a Lifetime of Protection

Prevent serious damage to your wood furniture by taking care not to position it in direct sunlight. Unless you are going for the weathered picnic table look, shield all wood furniture from the drying influence of the sun. Also, protect your dining room table's finish using an inexpensive table pad when the table is not in use.

When eating a meal or entertaining guests, use a tablecloth or placemats to protect the finish of a wood table, especially when serving hot food. Place hot serving dishes atop a hot pad and candle holders over a large felt protector with a plastic top, since plastic prevents wax from running.

Use coasters beneath all glasses and mugs to protect your coffee table, dining room table and wood dressers from unsightly rings and water spots. Beware, because not all coasters are created equal. Metal coasters can sweat onto the wood, and plastic coasters can react with certain finishes on some wood furniture pieces. So consider choosing wooden coasters with felt backing and a waterproof material on top to further ensure the longevity of your wood table tops. The best coasters are those that taper up on the sides, preventing leakage.

Protect Your Wood Tables from Damage

Protect From: With:
General Harm Table Pad (when not in use)
Sun Damage Location out of Direct line of Sun
Heat Damage Tablecloths, Placemats, Hot Pads
Wax Felt Protector with Plastic Top
Water Damage Wood Coasters with Felt Bottom and Waterproof top

Proper Care and Cleaning

Polishing wood furniture every week goes a long way toward protecting the finish from damage and helping your wood tables, chairs and dressers look their best. Beware, though, of cheap polishes, or any polish that contains silicone or alcohol. Alcohol can do permanent damage to a wood surface, as can any household cleaner that contains ammonia. An excellent polish can be easily made at home, by combining lemon oil with 3 parts olive oil.

Now that you know about polishes, don't forget to clean your wood furniture as well. Regular cleaning is especially important for coffee tables and dining room tables where food and drink are daily staples. Use a very mild soap, such as a diluted mixture of hand soap and water, as a cleaning agent for your wood furniture. And if you really want to ensure your dining room table or heirloom wood desk stays beautiful, have your wood furniture buffed and polished by a professional service once or twice a year.

Make Your Own Polish and Cleaning Agents

Type: Mixture:
Homemade Wood Furniture Polish = 1 part Lemon Oil + 3 parts Olive Oil
Homemade Wood Furniture Cleaner = Hand Soap + Water

*Stay away from Alcohols and Ammonias

Now you are fully armed to properly care for your wood furniture. And don't be disheartened if you are unable to make a nick or small stain disappear completely. Signs of use can add character to a piece of wood furniture, and are often barely noticeable. Whether it is a dresser, coffee table, bookshelf, desk, or dining room table, wood furniture is the perfect addition to any home.

Please find the original article and more information about this subject at http://www.homeandliving.com/DesignAdvice.aspx?Category=WoodCare

When Yale graduate, BatSheva Vaknin is not writing helpful and insightful articles like the one you just read from http://www.homeandliving.com, she writes plays, screenplays and short stories. In fact, she has just completed her first novel.

If you would like to publish this article on your own site, please feel free to do so. Please let us know the url of the posted article by emailing the url to batsheva@homeandliving.com. All we ask is that you include the whole article, without changes, including the link to the original article location, author information, this disclaimer and the following link.

Find great home furniture online at http://www.homeandliving.com

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Picking Furniture for a Nursery
7 Tips to Care for Your Antique Furniture
Tips for Taking Care of Fine Wood Furniture
Choosing Conservatory Furniture
Custom Slipcovers Can Give Your Furniture A Stylish New Look
Furniture Placement Secrets