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6 Ways to Instantly Spruce up a Room

Giving a makeover to individual rooms is quite a task in itself especially if you have your budget on a tight leash and the time is also short. Instant makeovers may sound fun and games but in reality, they are difficult to nail. Taking up rooms exclusively means that you have to make it perfect as you’re doing one room at a time. That sets the bar high and now you want to get every detail perfected. But the most important part is that the décor of the room must reflect your personal style, it should resonate with your character and depict your inner aesthetics.

If you know how to manipulate different décor elements like bed runners, decorative pillow covers or rugs and make them work together then you can instantly uplift any room of the home. A room makeover should be done in such a way that it makes you stop, appreciate and adore it every time you cross it. The room makeover should bring a smile on your face and all the time, money and effort should look worth it. The basis principle of a delightful makeover is simple; it should bring in some newness, vibrancy and elegance to the décor, in order for it to stand out.

When doing an instant uplift of the room make sure you strongly feel about it because you’ll need a lot of inspiration, motivation and persistence to get to the other end. Keep your mind open when doing a transformation of any room. Make a budget, choose the areas which need the most amount of restoration and then kick start your journey. Bedding items like a linen bed skirt, white linen curtains and area rugs and many more things await you so let’s start this ride together.

1.      Opt for Luxurious Linens and Plush Beddings

When doing a makeover of any room especially the bedroom, the main focus should be on the focal point that is the bed. No matter what type of bed or mattress you have opted for, beauty lies in the bedding. For an instant yet noticeable transformation, grace your bed with beautiful bedspreads, comfy comforters and stylish linen bed skirt and chunky knit bed runners. Don’t be shy on splurging a bit on linens as they will last you many decades and will retain their beauty as well. Besides the feel of luxury against your skin will make the transformation even worth it.

2.      Do an Accent Wall

This design tip works for each room of the home be it bedroom, living room, kitchen or dining area. An accent wall is not only budget friendly; it also completely alters, revitalizes and refreshes the whole room and gives it a newness. There are various ways to create an accent wall but the most popular, reasonable and noteworthy way is by applying a wallpaper. You can cover one wall with the wallpaper and focus on making it

the focal point or you can do it on all the walls but make one wall different from the others. Now don’t hold back when doing an accent wall, go for geometric patterns, floral prints, popping colors and vibrant prints in order to make a bold statement that grabs attention.

3.      Light it Right

Right kind of lighting can change the ambiance, appearance and vibe of any room. A well-lit room looks airy, welcoming and spacious whereas a room that is poorly lit looks dull, drab and congested. The main key is to go for layered lighting at various levels of the room. Place lighting fixtures upwards to make the room appear bigger and brighter, strategically place table lamps, floor lamps and picture lights to accentuate different areas of the room. Make sure that the lights are warm and soothing. Nothing is worse than a harsh white light. If your budget allows, change ceiling fixtures and see how your room comes alive.

4.      Add some Greenery

One of the most inexpensive ways to freshen up any room is by adding hints of Mother Nature to it. It can be as simply as placing a vase of fresh flowers and you’ll feel the freshness and liveliness into the room. You can also put pots of plants at entrance, hallways or in the corners anywhere in the home and it will give an instant refreshment to the décor. It is not compulsory to have only fresh flowers or plants, if you can find faux flowers, plants or grass that too will look nice and there’s no hassle of watering it. The best part about adding greenery to any room is that it looks great with any color story, gives a texture and dimension plus brings you close to nature.  

5.      Swap Old Decorative Pillow Covers

This is one of my go-to, favorite and most sought-after ways to do an instant makeover of any room of the home. Swap the old decorative throw pillows and with new, swanky pillow covers. Try to play with various textures, colors, shapes and sizes to bring in some dimension, develop some visual interest and make the room look uber chic.  When changing the throw pillow covers you can take inspiration from seasons, personal preferences or anything you want to incorporate in the room. You can also mix and match bed runners and pillow covers for the ultimate designer feels.

6.      Drape New Curtains

Nothing makes a room look more tired and dull than boring window treatments. Window treatments are very important in any room as it helps you control the inflow of light, gives you privacy and makes a room look complete. This may be an expensive item to replace but trust me it adds tons of value to your home. If you can’t afford bespoke curtains there are many affordable options out there, which when cleverly placed makes any room look bigger, brighter and livelier.

Summary

A little change or a few tweaks can go a long way, don’t underestimate the power of mini and instant makeovers. If you don’t have the time and money to do a full blown makeover, try your hand at instant makeover and see how it elevates the room.

[bretlee10]

Contemporary Decorative Pillows for Room Décor

If your sofa or bed is a delicious looking cake then the decorative pillows will act as a cherry on top. Decorative pillowcases provide the perfect finishing touch, the last nail in the coffin that makes every single element of the décor appear cohesive and in harmony with each other.  The way these pillowcases have some sort of color or pattern or print that resonates with the rest of the elements and makes everything look well-put-together. Decorative pillows are the perfectly cool, chic and casual accessory that every person can nail and bring in the much-needed complexity, visual delight and comfort to the décor. These pillowcases have the ability to completely transform your space and give it the lift that makes it instantly vibrant and cheerful.

If you’re living in a temporary rental apartment, a college dorm or a small space which doesn’t allow you to invest in heavy décor item or some huge design changes but you don’t want to live in a lacklustre and uninspiring room then the easiest, most reliable and affordable way is to add decorative pillow covers to your décor and enjoy and chic looking space. They’ll add the perfect amount of color, vibrancy and zest to your space and can be switched out or moved instantly whenever you want. These pillowcases are also perfect to welcome a new season, play with a in trend color or for just a quick spruce up without investing a lot or having a big commitment.

Nowadays decorative pillowcases are available in such an eclectic range that it���s hard to choose the right kind of pillow which efficiently enhances and elevates the décor. Here are a few ways in which you can decorate your home with contemporary decorative pillows and augment the look of your décor.

1.      Play with Textures Instead of Colors

When adorning decorative pillows, the first thing comes to the mind is playing with colors but the key is to always pay heed to what goes well with the sofa or the furniture piece it will sit on. It is not necessary to always introduce a new color to the décor but you can also introduce different textures in the same color family to give the décor visual complexity and dimension. This will also keep things on a safer side if you’re reluctant to play with colors. Opt for textured fabrics like suede, corduroy, velvet, jute, faux fur or fringe.

2.      Add a Few Accent Pillows

In an out and out contemporary styled home a few accent decorative pillowcases look absolutely divine and stunning. Throw most of the pillow covers in the same color as the walls, sofa and overall theme of the room but also strategically place a few accent pillow cases inspired by the area rug, wall art or a statement decoration piece to tie things together in a fashionable manner.

3.      Stick to One Pattern, Play with Colors

Just like I suggested to play with the textures and not the color, you can do the same with patterns. Stick to one pattern that you really like and familiarise various intonations of it through the decorative pillow covers. You can opt for floral, geometrical, zigzag, striped, polka dots or crisscross patterns but be mindful about the size of the pattern you choose. Make sure the pattern size is the same in all the various styles of cushions in order to keep one element constant. You can then play with sizes, colors and placement.

4.      Stick with One Color, Play with Patterns

You can also do the complete opposite of the former point and this time you can play with the patterns but keep it the color and size constant. The crux of the matter is to keep one thing constant so that the eyes can rest on it and make everything look harmonious. If you have a riot of colors, patterns and textures then nothing will complement the other and everything will look haywire and wild. For example, if your theme is blue and white color then you can throw a couple of striped pillowcases, a few textured pillow cases along with some embellished pillow covers but all in blue or white color.

5.      Splash a Riot of Colors Belonging to the Same Family.

This is a very chic, cool and contemporary way of playing with the decorative pillow covers as it allows you to explore various colors while staying grounded. Keep the fabric, pattern, texture or print of the pillowcases the same but introduce various colors of the same family, like yellow, orange, pink and red or teal, turquoise, purple, royal blue or white, black, grey and steel. This way you have the opportunity to bring in harmony by placing colors that complement each other innately.

Takeaway

Decorative pillows are the perfect design element to take your décor a notch higher. Once you start to play with decorative pillows there will be no stopping you from sprucing up your décor every now and then, it's that easy, affordable and enjoyable.

[bretlee10]

7 Quick and Easy Ways to Refresh Your home on a Budget

At some point of time, most of us get tired of living in the same setting and same surroundings. We feel uninspired, bored and queasy with our home and the décor that once excited us has now become an eyesore, relatable? Well, if you and I think alike you have surely landed on the right page, over here you will get a ton of ideas that will excite, entice and encourage you to get up once again and make your home décor the talk of the town again. With every new season or new year, the feeling of changing our setting and rejuvenating the décor gains momentum but something or the other stops us in our tracks.

Sometimes it’s the budget, sometimes the time is too short and sometimes you just don’t want to make the effort. Although changing your décor can be done as easily as changing the pillow covers of the cushions, all we need is the right guidance, for which you have already taken the first step, so congratulations! Refreshing your home décor doesn’t mean that you have to remodel, rebuild or renovate in order to make a noticeable difference. You can revive and breathe a new life into your décor by simple tweaks, adjustments and changes, that to on a budget leash.

Luckily, there are now so many new and exciting ways to spruce up your home décor without breaking the bank. Swapping old bed spreads with new ones, placing a new mirror, adding fresh flowers in different corners or adding a new rug, can all make you fall in love with your home all over again. These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg, down below is a pandora box of ideas that will refresh your home décor and make it an exciting, lovable sanctuary that you’ll love to resign in.

1.    Reshuffle your Furniture

Let’s start with an easy one which requires no money, not even a dime. Anytime you feel bored and displeased with your surroundings but the budget doesn’t allow you to go all out then just make an effort to reshuffle your furniture. Now by reshuffling I don’t suggest that you do that with one room only, if that’s your only way to make a difference than make it count. Don’t rearrange the furniture of the same room in it again, that would hardly be noteworthy. Try juggling the furniture pieces of the guest room in the living room or bedroom furniture can find a place near the entrance area. Think outside the box.

2.            Revamp your Window Treatments

Think about your room as a canvas and the windows are what it’s mounted on, so if you make an effort of revamping them, you can surely make your room exciting again. People often think that changing the window treatment means punching a big hole in the pocket but on the contrary, there’re so many simple, stylish and affordable options out there that you’ll be surprised. Keep in mind to opt for something that is completely different from the previous ones but still look coherent with the rest of the setting. If windows treatments are the only new element, you’re adding then try to introduce some extension of it somewhere else in the room as well, like decorative pillow covers of the same design or color.  

3.            Paint the town red (ok not red!!)

Paint has some magical powers, trust me! Nothing, I mean nothing can refresh a home better than a fresh coat of paint. Although painting the home takes a lot of effort, time and energy it’s a rather budget friendly hack. You don’t have to paint each and every wall of the home to make a difference, just a statement wall in every room or an accent wall in the living room will speak volumes for itself. If painting a wall is out of your league then put a wallpaper on it and even that’s not possible than try hanging a group of family pictures or floating shelves or even a big mirror will do the trick. Your walls are brimming with endless possibilities!

4.            Get Rid of the Old Bedding

According to me, if you want to refresh your home, then always start from the bedroom. This room is where you feel the most relaxed, chilled out and restored, right? So, make a move to do it right, for that the easiest and pocket friendly way is to change your bedding. Yes, you heard me, strip your old bed sheets and lay a beautiful floral, printed, patterned, textured bedspread of your preference. Add new decorative pillow covers, lay a fluffy, warm comforter, top it with bed runner and call it a day.

5.            Finance a New Rug

If your room lacks character, warmth and something to tie different elements together than your best bet is a new area rug. Rugs have the uncanny ability to induce instant character, comfort and coziness into any place. A rug beautifully and seamlessly brings different elements of the décor together and somehow makes them look harmonious. Choose colors, patterns, prints or material of the rug in accordance with your décor style to create a statement.

6.            Add Hints of Nature  

Another easy, effective and inexpensive way to refresh your home is by adding plants, flowers or herb pots to the décor. Nature instantly makes any place feel warm, inviting, relaxing and fresh. Now I know it can be a bit of a hassle to put fresh flowers every other day in the vases or water the plant pots so you can also put faux plants. These plants and flowers look surprisingly real, don’t feel tacky and give the same effect.

7.            Declutter

Lastly, I will end with another zero-money tip that will take a bit of an effort and a lot of willpower but it will totally be worth it. Sometimes adding new things doesn’t hit the right spot as removing something can. Take a trip down the memory lane and declutter old stuff so that your home looks bigger, cleaner and clearer.

 Ending

Refreshing the home décor is one of the most satisfying and fulfilling experiences especially when done on a budget. Hopefully these tips will make the difference you crave to make. You don’t have to try all to make it work for you, just try the ones you feel right. Best of luck!!

[bretlee10]

Choosing the Best King-Size Pillowcases

Selecting linens for your bedroom can be a confusing and daunting task due to the enormous number of options available in the market. There are so many things that one has to take under consideration before zeroing in on one thing as it will ultimately result in a good night sleep or a night that is spent tossing and turning. The fabric of the bed spreads, the print of the duvet, whether or not to top it with a throw and the million-dollar question of which pillow size is the best. King size pillowcases are a hot favorite as they encapsulate comfort and luxury perfectly.

Bed is the main attraction in a bed room, everything revolves around it. Being the focal point of the room, we need to make sure that everything adds something to it. We spend roughly 8 hours in bed everyday, that is one-third of a day! It's inherent that we want this feature to be the epitome of comfort, luxury and style. The mattress is of top quality, the bed sheets are clean and crisp, the duvet is warm and cozy but what about the pillowcases?

A pillowcase is an equally vital element for a deep slumber as you lay your head on it, it comes in direct contact with your skin and it completes the whole look of the bed. Linen pillowcases are the best ones out of the lot as they have every feature that anyone ever looks for in a pillowcase. People usually are very particular about their pillow sizes, fabric, thread count and filling as it can lead to a peaceful or problematic sleep. They pay heed to whether the pillow is firm or soft, small or big but what they don’t pay heed to is what goes over the pillow!

The Importance of Pillowcases

Pillowcases are an underrated bedding item, but trust me it's important! Without the perfect pillowcase your bed will look incomplete and super uncomfortable. Pillowcases provide you the much-needed back support when reading or watching TV, it helps you prop up and gives you the comfort of a peaceful sleep when you lay your head on it. Pillowcases also protect your pillows from stains, spills, dead skin cells, oils, saliva and many kinds of bed bugs and bacteria. An ideal pillowcase like king size pillowcases perfectly fit your mattress, looks royal, provides apt back support and is breathable.

Different Kinds of Pillowcases  

Pillowcases come in various shapes and sizes just like our clothes. One size doesn’t fit all so there are a number of options to choose from. Every individual has its own personal preference hence different pillowcases in shape, measurement, fabric and fillings. There is no such thing as a wrong pillow, it's all about your fondness. Pillowcases can be chosen based on your mattress size as well, we don’t want to have too small or too big pillows on the mattress which makes it gruelling to the eyes.

The most common pillow sizes are Standard, Queen, King and Body but the pillowcase that is most loved is king size pillowcases. Standard size pillowcase is the most common one, as it fits the majority of mattresses. It is neither too big nor too small with a good amount of fill that ensures a well rested sleep. Next one is the Queen size pillow which is slightly larger than the standard size, although standard size and queen size are quiet interchangeable sizes. A queen size pillowcase gives room to the sleeper to toss and turn and it also allows the bed to have some decorative pillows and other throw cushions to further accentuate the bed.

Next comes my favorite size, which is the king size pillow, designed to provide comfort with a luxurious feel. King size pillowcases have those extra inches that make them more supportive and royal looking. There are two main types of king size pillows, California king and Regular king. California king is a staple in king size beds as it perfectly fills the headboard space and provides support and comfort. A California king sized pillow is approx. 20” long and 36” wide. A regular king size may appear same as its other counterpart but what the actual difference is the California king emphasises on length whereas regular emphasises on width.

Why to Choose a King Size Pillow?

A king-sized pillow is best suited for people who want comfort and luxury. People who like to spend more time in bed, reading, watching TV or just relaxing, will find this pillowcase size just perfect. The added length and width provide comfort, support and ease.

The Bottom Line

Pillowcases are very important for a good night’s sleep. Not only the size but also the material, like linen pillowcases makes sure that you have a clean, bacteria-free, hypoallergenic pillowcase to sleep on. Hopefully you find this article helpful to choose for your next pillow shopping.  

[bretlee10]

How to Style Your Bed like an Expert?

Styling and decorating a bed first thing in the morning isn’t really on our to-do-list every morning, right? The most we want to do is to just smooth out any creases and get on with our hectic day. At the end of the day, when all we want is to resign to a nice, beautifully decorated and styled bed awaiting us, instead we find a drab, uninviting and bleak looking bed. For a well-decorated and beautiful bed one needs to make an effort to achieve that. There are many ways by which you can make your bed look like it has come straight out of a magazine or a 5-star hotel. Accessories like bed runners and bed skirts help elevate the entire look of the bed and the bed room itself.

Although it may seem easy and simple to make your bed look styled-to-perfection, it’s an art to say the least. A well-decorated bed needs a sense of style, a strong inclination for perfection and expert tips and tricks that you can follow. For a bed that looks appealing, cozy and inviting one has to work in layers to make it a perfect cocoon for you to surrender after a long day. The way you layer your bedding elements will eventually make it appear beautiful or drab. Starting from the bottom layer bed sheets to the top layer bed scarf, all play a vital role in making your bed look stunning and feel comfortable.

Now there can be a hundred different ways to make a bed, but not all ways that may seem stylish will also look stylish as well. We all dream to have a bed that screams perfection, one that doesn’t have a single element that looks out of place, having perfect pillow to cushion ratio, nicely tucked in sheets, contrasting bed runners, neatly folded duvets and tops with a bed scarf. This would be a picture perfect bed that no one wants to mess up even when it’s time to sleep. But there’s no reason to be upset, you can very much make your own bed look just as good as a designer bed with a little more effort than just pulling the sheets and folding duvets. So let’s get right into it, shall we?

Sheet it to slay it

Bed sheets are the new superstars of your bedroom; you can downplay them, make a statement through them or balance out the whole look with this bedding element. Previously, white was the primary color when it came to bed sheets but that has changed now. It’s time to add colors and vibrancy through sheets. The base sheet that covers your mattress can be in white but the flat sheet that is visible must be in color, prints or patterns in order to elevate the whole look. I would strongly recommend mixing and matching two sets of sheets to create a unique style. Try to bring together different elements of the bedding and make them work in harmony to truly make a head-turning statement.

Drum Roll for Duvet Covers

Adding a topper to your sheet is a move that will truly up your bedding game and your bed will look like it has been styled by an expensive designer. A topper can be a bedspread, duvet cover, comforter, blanket or quilt, whatever suits your taste or seasonal requirements. A topper helps you set the tone of your bed, you can inject a powerful color element via a duvet cover and make it the focal point of the bed or you can mellow down the look with a simple or patterned cover. Another way is to opt for a duvet cover or any topper that is reversible; this makes things more interesting and exciting on a daily basis. As you can fold the printed side up when the sheet is plain or you can give a muted finish when your bed sheet is loud.

Pillow Game for Perfection

Pillows play a major part in making or breaking the look of your bed. If you’re aiming for a well-decorated and styled bed then prop up two sleeping pillows against the headboard and three accent pillows in front, that is the thumb rule but you can amend it if you want to. The sleeping pillows covers can be the one matching to our bed sheet or duvet cover. You can either tuck them under the duvet but I’d suggest you place them against the headboard or stack them up horizontally. Next comes the accent pillows, you can go for three pillows ideally but if you’re willing to lift more than three pillows every night then sky's the limit. You can do 2 same size same shapes and one different accent pillow or do two same and one long lumbar situation as well.

Decorative Cushions for a Custom Look

Nothing induces colors, patterns, prints and textures better than decorative cushions. They can take you bed styling to a whole new level altogether. Decorative cushions are available in numerous colors, designs, prints and material that you can easily find according to your taste and need. You can place as many cushions as you like but try not to crowd the bed so that it feels incoherent. The best thing about cushion covers is that you can change the whole look of the bed by simply swapping old covers with new ones.

Bed Runners, Bed Scarfs or Throws

Layering of different elements together and striking the balance between them will eventually make a beautifully decorated bed. After placing bed sheets, duvet covers, pillows and cushion you now can add a final touch of perfection with a casually draped bed runner on the foot of the bed. A bed runner or bed scarf can instantly give a warm and inviting feel to the bed and also help add texture and drama to the whole look.

Takeaway

Hopefully these hacks will inspire you to spruce up your bed so that it becomes a delightful bed of your dreams. If you feel that these are two much work every day then you can test it out in a guest room to have a feel of things. A well styled bed will uplift your mood, make you feel relaxed and will bring a smile on your face whenever you come into your bedroom.

[bretlee10]

Pro Tips for Buying the Best Bed Skirts

The styling, decorating and making of the bed is one of the fundamental skills that are needed for a perfect bedroom. The bed is the focal point of the bedroom and it needs to be treated as one. A bed that is styled elegantly, made properly, has clean bedding and everything is in harmony with each other, will make you start your day on a high note and end it with a peaceful, satisfied smile. Most people make a lot of effort in nailing the upper part of the bed like the mattress, bedspreads, duvet covers, pillow covers and bed runners but the lower and equally important part is often neglected by a vast number of people.

Addressing this part will ensure that your bed looks straight out of a magazine and you can do it by adding linen bed skirts. Probably the most underrated part of the bedding but surely a very important part if you aim to give your bedroom a touch of elegance and class. Most people think that a bed skirt is an obsolete and redundant item but trust me, this item can make or break your bedroom. In all the best home stores you’ll now find a separate section dedicated to this essential item where it’s showcased it in all its glory.

What is a Bed Skirt and Why do You Need One?

A bed skirt is also known as a valance or dust ruffle, which is used between the box spring and mattress of the bed. A linen bed skirt is a beautiful and elegant decorative material which provides the bed an overall look of grace and sophistication. A bed with bed skirts queen looks complete and well styled whereas a bed without it looks incomplete and bare. If your bed has a traditional mattress and box spring set then your bed is the perfect contender for a bed skirt. If you don’t opt for a bed skirt then be ready to display that not-so-attractive box spring and those hideous legs.  

Linen bed skirts are not only useful in hiding unwanted things but it serves other purposes besides it. A bed skirt hangs from the box spring and traces the floor so it hides the gap between the frame and the floor. That space can be very useful in storing luggage, hover machine or any other thing that can fit neatly under the bed. Bed skirts also curbs the accumulation of dust mites and dust under you bed, working as barrier. The best part is that a bed skirt is removable so you can put it in your weekly load and call it a day. Linen bed skirts help create a modern, sleek, clean and tailored look which makes the whole bedroom look royal and very chic.

Bed skirts queen size come in a wide range of materials and styles. Match your bed skirts with any bedding element to bring in some unity and see how the whole look of the bed transforms right before your eyes. You can opt for traditional pleats, ruffles or frills or you can go with a textured, printed or patterned way. You can also combine pleats with prints or go for a flat panel gathered into ruffles. The choices are unlimited but the result is astounding. But when you buy a bed skirt, several other things are too considered so let’s take a look at them so that you can eventually decide the best bed skirt for your bed.

1.      Accurate Sizing

In order to select the best bed skirt, accurate sizing is the most pivotal part. The right size of the bed skirt can elevate the whole look of the bedroom, making it appear in perfect synchronization with other elements. If the size isn’t right then the overall look of the bed room will diminish. For the right size don’t just rely on the mattress size or bed size, take proper measurements as sizes may vary. If the size is too big then you’ll face problems bunching up the extra fabric and if its short then there’s no point as it will be useless.

2.      Fret over the Fall

The fall of the bed skirt is measured from the top of the box spring till it hangs just above the floor. Typically, this is 15 inches in measurement but some manufacturers do other sizes to accommodate a number of bed sizes, so do proper sizing before you head out. If the bed skirt is too long it will gather at the foot of the bed and if it’s too short then the whole concept of bed skirt will go in vain.

3.      Solid Color for a Win

The most versatile and vogue color choices for bed skirts are solid colors. They give the base of the bed a strong foundation and can be seamlessly matched with the bedding, curtains or upholstery. If you’re more attracted to light colors then be sure to opt for lined bed skirts as light colors might give a sneak peek of what’s under your bed.

4.      Engaging Patterns

When shopping for your new bedding element try to keep an open mind and be creative. Although a plain pleated, ruffled or frilled bed skirt is a classic a little pattern never hurts anyone, given it goes with the theme of your bedroom. Bed skirts are great at breaking the monotony of the bedroom without overpowering it. Introduce patterns like plaid, check, polka dots or stripe and look how amazing it will look.

5.      Heavy Fabric

Remember the alternative word for bed skirt is dust ruffles, right. So opting for a heavy textured fabric not only holds the shape which is very important but it also conceals the underneath of the bed and builds a strong barrier between the unwanted dust and the bed.  Fabrics like jacquard, velvet, corduroy, faux suede, chenille and matelassé works impeccably.

Overview

Make sure you don’t settle for anything less than perfect if you want that royal, regal look for your bedroom. choose the right sized bed skirt, a good color, pattern, texture and do some interesting finishing touches to make your bedroom look like it was professionally done.

[bretlee10]

How to choose Curtains for your Home?

One of the most crucial elements of a well decorated home is its window treatments. Any interior designer or decorator will vouch for the need of good curtains to grace the windows of the various rooms of the home. Curtains can make or break the look of the home; they are an integral part of the décor. But one has to choose them carefully, keeping in mind innumerable other aspects so that they blend in seamlessly with every other décor element you have put together. Curtains are those vital décor essentials that you just can’t ignore and expect your home to look like a design heaven. When the perfect linen curtains artfully drape from rods and bring the right amount of light and air into the room, nothing can beat that.

Curtains give personality, presence and perfection to a room. They can set the whole tone and mood of the room, going from easy-breezy to formal, bold and more theatrical. White linen curtains make a room feel airy, chilled-out and laid back whereas bold, printed or solid colored curtains make it look more formal and dramatic. When choosing for the perfect window treatments for your home make sure you keep your personal preferences and choices in mind. How much natural light penetrating from your curtains is acceptable to you? Do you like flowy curtains or stiff? Do you want to make your curtains a focal point of the room or just another element which blends in perfectly? All the answers to these questions will help you zero on the curtains you will love to hang.

But choosing the perfect curtains is not an easy job, selecting the right color, fabric, print or pattern is an overwhelming and jarring job to say the least. So many decisions can lead to bad choices and regret, so we have lined up for you some points which will help you to choose the picture-perfect curtains for your home.

Fabric  

Curtains are available in a wide range of fabrics; choose them wisely as they each will have different impacts on the décor. Velvets, brocades and other heavy fabrics may not drape gracefully but they ensure that not a speck of light enters the rooms. Whereas on the other hand, light sheer fabrics like chiffon, lace, cotton or linen curtains drape gracefully, flowy like water and look oh-so cool but let a lot of natural light wash over the room. When choosing the fabric keep in mind how much privacy you prefer, if you like to live in a cocoon then heavy fabric curtains are your thing but if you like natural sunlight and air entering your home then white linen curtains look flawless. Heavier fabric curtains look more suitable in traditional or transitional décor and light weight, sheer fabrics work well in a more contemporary setting. Another thing, heavier fabrics hold up better with time, wear and tear and light weight fabrics demand more attention and care.

Color

Choosing the right color curtains is pivotal if you want all your décor elements to blend in coherently with each other. You can choose a color that merges seamlessly or take risk by opting for a stand out color and making a statement with your window treatments. White linen curtains or solid velvet curtains are classics; they will always look amazing and give your home a timeless feel. You don’t have to go for plain white curtains, try self-textured curtains or a light floral pattern or print that also look wonderful. But if you want to step out of your comfort zone by making the curtains a statement feature of your décor, you can go for funky, quirky and bold colors. Whatever color curtains you choose, make sure they are in sync with the rest of your décor and color scheme. Either the curtains are in harmony with the rest of the décor or they should be in contrast.

Length and width

The length and width of the curtains often confuses people and its where most people struggle. If your room is smaller in height than hang your curtains a couple of inches (almost 6-8 inches) higher than the window, to give the room a taller more dramatic look, otherwise it's fine you can hang just above the window frame. Coming down to the floor, another thing that people get caught up is the place where the curtains should hit. Ideally they should drape just at the floor but if you like to give your room a traditional and romantic look then let them pool on the floor. If you have children or your room is not cleaned everyday opt for a few inches higher than the floor.

Similarly the width of the curtains can be altered considering the preference of the homeowner. Going for a rod that is wider than the window frame will allow the curtains to open outside the window frame; giving you unobstructed natural light and making the window appear wider. But if you don’t want this effect then measure your window according to the frame.

Prints and Patterns  

Before injecting any sort of print or pattern in your décor look around and take cues from the rest of the décor. If your living room or bedroom is immersed in a single hue then you can break the monotony by draping printed or patterned curtains. You can introduce a geometrical pattern if the setting is contemporary or you can go for paisley style curtains in a more traditional setting. Printed or patterned curtains have a visual weight to them; don’t impose them if you already have enough drama in your décor.

Hardware

The hardware options for curtain rods and curtain holders have become quite diverse. From traditional to modern to industrial the options are great. Go for brushed nickel, antique bronze, brass, polished nickel or other popular options. Make sure the rod and the holder are of the same material so that uniformity retains.

Bottom Line

The right curtains that complement your décor add so much more essence and personality to your space. Make sure you take in account all these factors before selecting window treatments so that the overall look of your home looks comprehensible and all synced together.  

[bretlee10]

How to Make Your Bedroom Feel Luxurious With Comfy Bedding

After a long, hectic day what is it that you look forward to? What makes you feel relaxed, reenergized and pumped up for the next frantic day ahead? Well a good night, peaceful sleep is the key to a sorted, composed and cohesive mind, which is able to make right decisions. This is only possible if your bedding is comfortable and super relaxing not only to the body but also to the eyes. Do you agree with this or not? Think about it this way, you have entered a luxurious hotel room which has feathery pillows, wrinkle free sheets that are neatly tucked in from all sides, bed skirts are giving the room a vintage feel and it is topped with a plush blanket or comforter. Wouldn’t you just jump in it with utter joy and glee? Why would this bring you so much pleasure?  

Well, we all love to spoil ourselves every now and then and when we come across with a bedroom that demonstrates luxury and comfort we get ecstatic. The good part is that we can achieve the same feel every day in our own bedrooms through luxurious, comfy and well-appointed bedding. In this article I will help you accomplish that same feel through simple tricks and tips so that you can indulge, pamper and treat yourself every day. From the right mattress to the correct bedspreads, from the pillows to throws we will cover every aspect of luxurious and comfy bedding.

Mattress  

A good mattress is like the foundation of an inviting, indulgent and alluring bed. You must invest in a mattress that screams comfort and is nothing short of perfection, spare no expense! There are numerous options in mattresses nowadays, choose from simple spring, innerspring, memory foam, natural fiber, latex, polyfoam or even waterbeds. But innerspring mattresses are by far the most popular and widely used mattresses for ultimate luxurious feel and comfort. You can further upgrade your innerspring mattress by adding a marshmallow like layer under your bedspreads to make it the epitome of pleasure. Also make sure your mattress is not due for a change, as the ideal life of a mattress is 7-10 years maximum.

Sheets

In order to give your bedding the feel of indulgence and comfort make sure the sheets are clean, crisp and fresh. Nothing will make you happier, relaxed and truly at ease than a cool clean sheet, trust me. Another way to make your bedding feel just like a 5-star hotel is to swap your elastic cornered sheet with flat sheets. They are easy to tuck in and give a more neat and clean look. Lastly, your bedroom can become a deluxe hotel room by hitting that 300 thread-count sweet spot. Many five star hotels use bed sheets that have 300 thread counts for that heavenly cocoon like feel. This material can be cotton as well as linen. This thread count makes the bedspreads more breathable, cool and clean.

Pillow Mix

Pillows are an important part of the bedding that gives your bed an indulgent feel that makes it even more alluring and appealing. But make sure that you strike the perfect balance between too few pillows or too many pillows. The ideal numbers of pillows are 2-4 for a comfortable back support during the day and at night it becomes your perfect snuggle partner. The best pillows are down but if you’re allergic then you can use its alternative that is hypoallergenic.

Bed Cover, Comforter and Bed Skirts

Don’t compromise this step if you truly aim for luxurious, plush and comfortable bedding. Top your flat sheet with a plush, fluffy and soft down comforter for the ultimate extravagance and opulence. Down comforter is not only soft and fluffy it also has insulating properties which are ideal for winters. When the summer months arrive you can swap it with a light quilt and enjoy that time as well.

The thumb rule for that luxury feel is to always go for a comforter that is 2 inches wider and longer than your cover for that extra scrumptious feel.  Lastly luxury bedding is not all about how it feels against your skin and body but for the whole package you must also please the eyes. Bed skirts give the bedroom a definition, class and a feel of royalty which instantly makes it look luxurious and lavish.

Feather Bed

If you’re not ready to upgrade your mattress but still crave for luxury then go for a feather bed. It is a mattress pad that gives you the experience of a 5-star hotel. It makes the bed cozy, comfy and cloud-like, making you want to curl up and get lost in your dreams. You don’t have to spend a fortune on it, there’re plenty of affordable options available.

Sum it up

These simple yet tried and test tips will make your bedding a luxurious, heavenly oasis that you will love to retire to every night. Try these simple tips to experience the luxury and comfort of a 5-star hotel every day in your bed.

[bretlee10]

Simple and Creative Living Room Ideas to Adapt To your Own Home

Living room is considered as the heart of the home and is undoubtedly the most important room in terms of décor. Living room is the center of our social space; it’s where we welcome our guests, have conversations with our family, binge watch Netflix and entertain friends and family. Basically the first room we all want to nail in terms of décor, styling and designing. We all aim to strike the perfect balance in our living room design that makes it both welcoming and inviting for the guests and comfortable and cozy for the inhabitants of the home. For achieving this we lay beautiful area rugs, place decorative pillow covers, drapes luxurious curtains, adorn mesmerizing artwork and highlight with lighting fixtures.

Living room décor and styling is a very personal thing for everyone. It’s affiliated intricately with each person’s aesthetic sense, lifestyle and preferences. When styling a living room, we all want it to be compelling and captivating to the guests yet relaxing and unwinding for the residents. Now to thread on this thin line can often complicate things. Sometimes people overdo things and sometimes they underdo it. It’s easy to stuff in all those things you have been eyeing in the furniture stores for months now but the tough part is to decide what goes well with the overall styling and what looks chaotic and cluttered. With so many design elements available for living rooms is hard to select and neglect.

From pillow covers to curtains to lighting fixtures to rugs to furniture pieces to artwork and accents walls, all seem essential and impactful. But you would just stuff in all those things without making sure they work well in your settings, design and lifestyle and it won’t give you that gripping visual impact we all aim to demonstrate through our living rooms. Here are some simple and creative living room ideas that you can acclimate in your setting and make a statement.

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

If you’re not comfortable with experimenting and toying with the essential elements of the living room try to play with some of the not-so-important ones to make a quirky statement and draw the attention of the guests. Add something that is a little unexpected but still charms and intrigues a person. You can do that by a quirky, eccentric coffee table, by a vibrant artwork or even by placing a love seat or ottoman upholstered in some unique fabric.

Add Spurts of Colors

Most of the people like a solid base for their furniture pieces like the main sofa; it can be sectional or the typical 3-2-1 seater. Having a ton of patterns, prints and colors in the living room isn’t appreciated by many homemakers. Instead tasteful spurts of colors, aesthetically introduced patterns and stylish cadences of prints make things less complicated and more refined. Try to keep the main sofas, tables and chairs in one color and introduce colors through table lamp shades, decorative pillow covers, area rugs, artwork or an accent wall.

Layer your Lighting

This part of the décor and designing is often overlooked or not given its due importance at all.  Nothing can spruce up a setting better than a beautifully layered lighting. It adds depth to the room, makes it look expensive and the room feels intimate, cozy and warm. People often try to go the safe way when adding lighting fixtures to the décor. For example, a console is always lit up with a table lamp whereas a pendant light hanging from the top of it can take the visual impact to next levels altogether. Same is the case with the dimmers, we often forget to put dimmers to our lights to save a few bucks; whereas dimmers not only make a room feel expensive it also lets you adjust the amount of intimacy and warmth you want.

Let the Drape take the Cake

A good window treatment in a living room is very crucial as it makes it appear luxurious, royal and expensive. Don’t just go and buy any curtains or drapes for your windows, there are many factors that should be taken into account. The color story of the room, the amount of light you prefer to seep in through your curtains, the height of the room and also the width of the window. Another important thing to do before buying your curtains is measure the height and width of the window. Nothing is more disturbing than a curtain that doesn’t hit the floor and hangs in midair. Also pay heed to the rods and the holders of the drapes, they should go well with the overall theme in order to make everything look in harmony.

Life-Sized Artwork

If you want to do great magic, make a statement and play safe with one décor element, then large-scale artwork is your best bet, trust me. A large, oversized, attention-grabbing, conversation-starting and eccentric artwork can make the living room feel immaculately luxe. You don’t have to spend a fortune on the artwork as per the common perception of the artwork.  You can find some great pieces while emptying your pockets. You’ll be surprised to see the quality of artworks available in yard sales, thrift stores and other small galleries. Buy one and make it your focal point.

Shine with Metallics

People often shy away from metallic décor elements, assuming they’re loud, gaudy and flashy. But nothing breaks the monotony and boredom of the room better than a nice metallic décor item such as a wall clock, mirror, console table, pendant light or even decorative pillow covers. By adding a hint of glamour and glitz through décor elements you can surely add the wow-factor to your living without going overboard.

Ending Lines

Living rooms have fairly predictable elements which can easily make it fall under the category of ordinary and boring. But if you try to think out-of-the-box, be confident and ready to take risks than the same elements can help you achieve a truly awe-inspiring, dreamy and alluring living space which everyone would love to sit in and enjoy.  

[bretlee10]

Bedspreads VS Comforters- Know the Difference to Ace the Game

Want to prepare your dream bed, where you can relax and unwind after a long and hectic day? If you haven’t been to a home store before, here’s a heads-up, there will be a sea of options for you to choose from. Navigating through bedding aisles and choosing from numerous options might get the best of you. Selecting bed sheets or blankets is relatively an easier job as compared to buying the bedding toppers, the real complications start from there. Choosing and distinguishing between bedspread queen, comforter, duvet, duvet cover, quilt or bed runner is a convoluted task. What is the big difference between each and why should you choose a bedspread over a comforter?

Bedding items like bedsheets and blankets are pretty basic and necessary, we all know where they go in the scheme of things. On the other hand, bedding toppers are less functional and more decorative, choosing one over another makes a huge difference in the overall look and style of the bed. So, if you’re revamping your bed or styling it from scratch, you might want to know in detail which bedding item serves your taste and requirement. Each bedding topper such as bedspreads, comforters or quilts have individual characteristics that may make them more attractive to you over the other one. Bedding terms such as duvets or quilts or comforters are often used interchangeably but they’re different from each other.

Choosing the right bedding topper will not only make your bedroom look stylish, appealing and put well put together; it will also ensure that you have a comfortable, contented and relaxed sleep. In this article I will focus on two such bedding items that have been a cause of confusion for many homemakers; Bedspreads and Comforters. I will dissect them in detail so that you can ultimately decide whether or not to choose one over the other.

Comforters

Comforters are a thick, fluffy, cozy decorative alternative of the blankets. It’s a bedding topper which can be paired with a blanket as well, for additional warmth in winter months. Comforters can be the top layer of the bedding or we can further decorate it with a bed runner or a bed scarf. A comforter is also confused with a quilt or duvet cover but there are potent differences between them. The main difference is that a quilt cover often has an intricate sewing pattern on it which keeps the filling in place and a duvet is a thinner, lighter version of the comforter and one also has to buy a duvet cover separately to make it a complete set.

Material and Filling

Comforters are the favourite bedding item of all the Americans, so they’re made in a variety of materials to ensure there’s something for everyone. The comforter cover can be of linen, cotton, polyester, silk, bamboo or even velvet. The volume and type of filling depends on how much warmth you want, polyester is a common choice of filling as it’s cheaper, warmer and light in weight. Filling like feather and down are for those people who like their bedding to be rich, plush and exclusive. Alternative to down can be wool or cotton as well.  Unlike the duvet, the filling and the cover of the comforter comes as a whole set. In order to keep the filling in place, the cover and the filling are sewn through some times in straight lines and some things in patterns.

How are Comforters Sold?

Now if you’re new to the labyrinth aisles of the bedding section then you must know how to spot the comforter sets among the other options. Comforters are usually sold with matching bedding items like pillow shams, bed sheets and decorative cushion covers so that everything looks in perfect harmony. The comforter sets are available in a wide range of designs, colors, materials, prints and embellishments. The best part is that you can just simply rip the comforter off and put it in your weekly load without the worry of taking out and inserting the filling.

Bedspreads 

Bedspreads are a heavier counterpart of the bedsheets, which are ideal to display in autumn or spring months. Bedspreads can be used alone in warm months and paired with quiet covers, duvets cover, comforter or blankets in colder months for increased insulation and warmth. Bedspreads queen are single layered, light in weight bedding toppers, which are able to cover the entire bed, you can place the pillows on top of it as well as tuck them under in order to give it a smooth look. bedspreads are also a more decorative version of bedsheets which make the bed a more complex, stylish and exquisite look.

Material and Filling  

Bedspreads don’t have any filling in them, they are single layered. Bedspreads don’t provide much insulation on their own but if you pair them up with the right kind of bedding then together as a combo it does provide coziness and comfort in those chilly winter nights. Bedspreads are available in many different kinds of materials like cotton, silk, wool, linens, velvets, corduroy and even mix fabrics. You may also come across bedspreads which are elaborated with embroideries, embellishments, pompoms, fringes and lace finishes.

Usage and Functionality

Bedspreads are ideal to place in a room that’s more formal and less in use, like a guest room. Bedspreads queen were very popular bedding items especially in the hotels to give the guest a feel of luxury but in homes the trend is slowly fading away. Bedspreads are ideal if you like your bed to remain in shape even if you have slept, sat or even jumped on it. Bedspreads conform to the shape of the bed and give it a crisp look.

Who Wins the Battle?

Well, both bedding items have different purposes so it’s important to understand each function and purpose. A comforter is mostly used to give warmth and coziness whereas a bedspread is more of a decorative item that makes the bed look attractive and well styled.  

[bretlee10]

Simple Farmhouse Decorating Tricks and Tips

Farmhouse style is not only limited to those people who live on a farm in the outskirts of a city. The farmhouse style can be very much appreciated and adapted into our modern homes; in fact accents of farmhouse style which is well incorporated with contemporary styles, looks not only amazing but very interesting and exclusive. Farmhouse style signifies natural elements, soothing color story and a feel of country life. Basically it is a style that makes your home a relaxing sanctuary which is full of charm, character and personality. This style makes your home feel organized yet practical. It brings hygge, warmth and comfort to all the inhabitants and in coming guests of the home.

There is a thin line between a farmhouse style décor and full blown country kitsch look, in order to encapsulate the perfection of farmhouse style, rustic look; one needs to balance between old and new, rustic and urban and stylish and overpowering features. For example farmhouse curtains are in earthy, neutral tones but coupled with modern rod or draping style it can be a beautiful amalgamation of both. Farmhouse style originally denotes anything that was practical, handy and hardy.

But as the popularity of this style hyped among the masses, (all thanks to designers like Joanna Gaines and TV shows like Upper Fixer) the items and fixtures in this style have adorned some sophistication but practicality and realism are still important factors that define this style. Keep in mind that matching furniture pieces and other items that look completely in sync with each other will not be counted as a farmhouse style. It should be an amalgamation of hand-me-downs, vintage rugs or chairs, white linen curtains and some modern aesthetics. Here are some tips and tricks to decorate your home in farmhouse style.

Neutral Toned Walls with Dimension

In order to capture the true essence of the farmhouse style, make sure you start the right way and set the base right. Walls and flooring play a huge part in showing off the style of your home, for farmhouse style the walls must be painted in neutral paint colors like beige, taupe, ivory, grey, fawn or even light tan. Make sure to stick with one paint color for all the walls; don’t try to change the color in every room of the home.

After bringing all the walls in harmony you can spruce up a wall in your living room with shiplap or you can keep one wall of your kitchen in exposed brick form or you can also opt for a beadboard for your bedroom and wainscoting for your dining room walls. A true farmhouse styled home has textured walls which are full of dimension.

Blend in Old with New

As I told earlier, farmhouse style has notations of vintage, heirloom things which are well integrated with a contemporary twist. You need to aim for a blend of new and old items to truly shine with your farmhouse décor. You can very smartly introduce old things in your décor little by little without making the whole décor feel outdated. In fact old heirloom products add interest and drama to your décor as it intrigues the people and keeps them wondering the source of that item. You can place vintage lace table mats on your coffee tables, hang an old flour sieve as a decoration piece or put an old chair in the corner of your room.

Distressed Furniture

Old, chipped and distressed furniture add so much more value and authenticity to your farmhouse style décor that no other element can, trust me. A little wear and tear on the furniture adds so much charm and charisma to your décor. Old door and windows can be turned into dressing mirrors or frames, a chair with chipped paint works so well in the corner of any room and farmhouse curtains couple with old door knobs as holder makes your house an inspiration for farmhouse style décor.

Painted Furniture  

Another way to add old furniture to enhance and make your farmhouse style even more authentic is to paint it. If you haven’t ventured into painted furniture, trust me it’s a game changer. It not only transforms and leases a new life to your old furniture but it also looks so unique, exclusive and charming. Now this trick doesn’t work with all furniture items, some furniture pieces are best left in their worn out form and some furniture pieces are beyond repair. Make sure your DIY painting project works well with the color story of the décor. You can also paint other items than furniture and blend them in with the rest of the décor.

Summary

These are just some of the tips and tricks that work well in a farmhouse style décor. The best tip of really nailing this style is to leave the mall stores and find pieces from thrift stores, yard sales, farm sales, souvenir shops and antique shops. If farmhouse style is your jam then start collecting vintage pieces and heirloom items.