Growing a room

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCdIf9QzCPLVvxa58eH8rzgbMU2t0zp3N7NJ5X-LXwcIIWvDdx_8Dof_g7DG3BDrAxC1D-w93UADl67kezUY0PvSnr5KskAdDiwYtex6j7hbgCHzd9ngm23e1RgZ2kxwzESv_e64IEUw8-/s1600/DSCN647166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCdIf9QzCPLVvxa58eH8rzgbMU2t0zp3N7NJ5X-LXwcIIWvDdx_8Dof_g7DG3BDrAxC1D-w93UADl67kezUY0PvSnr5KskAdDiwYtex6j7hbgCHzd9ngm23e1RgZ2kxwzESv_e64IEUw8-/s320/DSCN647166.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Function and budget are two words I use quite a bit in my design work. It makes  no sense to have a beautiful room if it doesn't work for the people who use it, nor does it make sense to develop a plan for a room that is not within a client's financial reach. That's where creativity and a good sense of what's possible in DIY comes in. It also helps to know where to get a good deal. I've had lots of practice with both as I've decorated my own homes. I never seem to completely redo a room; my rooms are usually in a subtle, constant transition. It's a state I've come to define as "growing a room". The guest room in my summer house is a perfect example of this.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Before</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr4Ctow-4e8uk4iQkbVtNEFmbOtzfcaybAQVplNes3G1K5h9-qVqCl5Ri7hj0uwwsY5R8ek6bmwHLkNRAcJQg8oj0GPKy7IiMZo62j2lJ-LPJDm8bDq9SAmI_7QAiWgafS9oCeGLj7yopn/s1600/guest+room1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr4Ctow-4e8uk4iQkbVtNEFmbOtzfcaybAQVplNes3G1K5h9-qVqCl5Ri7hj0uwwsY5R8ek6bmwHLkNRAcJQg8oj0GPKy7IiMZo62j2lJ-LPJDm8bDq9SAmI_7QAiWgafS9oCeGLj7yopn/s320/guest+room1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Going back in time to 2002 when we built our summer place, we constructed frames for two twin beds and  purchased a  bedside  table from a second hand store.  Functional but certainly not interesting.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGSdMA5tXen0jhPSz-GrTF-KgDrbv5rCEKSi9-vnnU-6lReQkGuDHmskdEF_XmZ4yN_sGWiPgs1qnGQL5TrW7ew7KWEhNEOUd_SwAcz0qD0has59sps33Gb76XBJd7mSvtrSJy9bNvH3r_/s1600/22.+jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGSdMA5tXen0jhPSz-GrTF-KgDrbv5rCEKSi9-vnnU-6lReQkGuDHmskdEF_XmZ4yN_sGWiPgs1qnGQL5TrW7ew7KWEhNEOUd_SwAcz0qD0has59sps33Gb76XBJd7mSvtrSJy9bNvH3r_/s320/22.+jpg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Time passed....  new headboards were made by the resident handyman and we found a way to connect the two frames to make a king size bed when we had company who wanted more than a twin.  That meant two separate lots of bedding to store, but it sure is practical! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We recycled an old IKEA chair from our basement but it needs  recovering and the area over the bed is very bare. Needless to say the white pillow in the chair doesn't work. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What happened to that dark brown bedside table? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJ0edEDGFisthzuF6Ym3W55YbjITlqRT5QwqQeSIvavYXg3i2YtKPqE21M0UMLIelCUXq8IdS08htq6IgBocLD1QC-zT40sny-Xnn5krdoyk-urafA6evu2fgZ-unePbFhqZrP0Q9yMUv/s1600/DSCN62902266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJ0edEDGFisthzuF6Ym3W55YbjITlqRT5QwqQeSIvavYXg3i2YtKPqE21M0UMLIelCUXq8IdS08htq6IgBocLD1QC-zT40sny-Xnn5krdoyk-urafA6evu2fgZ-unePbFhqZrP0Q9yMUv/s320/DSCN62902266.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It had new life when painted Benjamin Moore Calming Cream. I love the richness of that colour.  It has a slightly yellow undertone but it has lots of body and works well with most colours.  The vignette on the bedside table is lacking. I didn't like the lamp, flowers and headboard being the same height. The vase below is a great find at a local store and elephant grass from an existing arrangement in my porch helped to add height.  This solution cost exactly $11.44. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnVC2Ss3H5V0YwFw8mH_dJYB6_gQd02jCYBXJsySHXUbZ1rkbDZnAooTyGJusfD4BgQvZ3P4saihWx6PqOo6RPWz-foEj_zalBJiYtNhEbB5Nolx4yk-xddONcMEu1NHXQ1YVKofnXd9AD/s1600/DSCN647966.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnVC2Ss3H5V0YwFw8mH_dJYB6_gQd02jCYBXJsySHXUbZ1rkbDZnAooTyGJusfD4BgQvZ3P4saihWx6PqOo6RPWz-foEj_zalBJiYtNhEbB5Nolx4yk-xddONcMEu1NHXQ1YVKofnXd9AD/s320/DSCN647966.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The books were tidied and the hand carved bird on a piece of driftwood helps to bridge the two heights. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRqIglXaju1cBVWK7iMcgaoJS6o-dpMNWuXcDiLnSvZkQoI5VQbHTY25eX3ZcNYVCXEVS6MX4jRhk8Lnlvm_YPxqDb_GSToAhynfXsR-1OIq_t7S8D4RrdsXInsbgo_cAnvl9U_VTsimU/s1600/DSCN647266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRqIglXaju1cBVWK7iMcgaoJS6o-dpMNWuXcDiLnSvZkQoI5VQbHTY25eX3ZcNYVCXEVS6MX4jRhk8Lnlvm_YPxqDb_GSToAhynfXsR-1OIq_t7S8D4RrdsXInsbgo_cAnvl9U_VTsimU/s320/DSCN647266.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The IKEA chair was painted Calming Cream and recovered with a striped cotton and  a  pillow to match the one on the bed was made. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And something appeared over the bed as if by magic. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtBGuiBdlJzGO2K5_MMDde3dcMvg4BEH110HdqZxI-T7r1MhN2X7QE4yBaAv4w6c4kBJZYWSuw39jaXG1ahEpLyop8VxjybgDbeNA7VOQBiN9rs9PGRYEW1rTFXS9B0AweqAJ-Tp30-88D/s1600/DSCN629066.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzmVsJbbTQS5WDjpBEIpKOVUcVlP-rq7gCWsKwpIOtRIL8F8DJixjYrbdNFF0sOMnERo4P5jXni6CgLwB7jGBuNcM4p-Xjzc0c72un0K4xj4pBoXPjZNpTQB0e5O9fXn5WRxDVEs6U6bJn/s320/DSCN648866.jpg" width="320" /></div><br />One of the best things about being an artist is that you can whip up an artwork to fill any empty spaces you have on your walls.  My favourite fun approach is collage with hand made textured papers and subtle applications of paint.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfw5dBRJigk98UCVl4c-oOfoYjR82o6Rzhl_HzFYzaBZtNVE6Z0e0aN_R_7z85lhia_Edodl3QAgGOLFKeevenujzIKRm45_itDJuP_EnB3cA6A6GYwhtaQunzBTWd439DdkygptVhT5NI/s1600/DSCN64942266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfw5dBRJigk98UCVl4c-oOfoYjR82o6Rzhl_HzFYzaBZtNVE6Z0e0aN_R_7z85lhia_Edodl3QAgGOLFKeevenujzIKRm45_itDJuP_EnB3cA6A6GYwhtaQunzBTWd439DdkygptVhT5NI/s320/DSCN64942266.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This landscape strata references the many colours and textures that can be seen outside the bedroom window especially in fall. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv7Um8AZuqTrsGVuXtDTdMAg9egb2IgRG_TUwORUHp8gCHV8yxL8g9nFbYC9RznlzdVDnzifXVgneeEsTgi6imFDMTw_oc3uKpFJosA_NlhGC8-QdrOuWXzH6B9M9nhh6st7HVzb5VxSIV/s1600/DSCN655166.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv7Um8AZuqTrsGVuXtDTdMAg9egb2IgRG_TUwORUHp8gCHV8yxL8g9nFbYC9RznlzdVDnzifXVgneeEsTgi6imFDMTw_oc3uKpFJosA_NlhGC8-QdrOuWXzH6B9M9nhh6st7HVzb5VxSIV/s320/DSCN655166.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />My favourite way to dress a bed is to turn back the sheets.  I took away the striped grayish pillows and now I need to make one more striped one to match the one above.  The rectangular pillow was made from the bottom of a ready made panel that has a beautiful cherry blossom design.  Of course  I bought it on sale.I managed to squeeze  two pillows out of one panel.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5EV_SJlEZVsvfu5mB6zm548y0_yQnEwA0xvGsCcFJfOtA8L5onKNTbGnxuaQadNgcmQ1Pi4AJy7WNlR5afZs1gfLl57LMpxIaps0DoMxEfN5JRO4YonjQQMZ6IRSkJbROFrJI8CnuSLs/s1600/DSCN648466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5EV_SJlEZVsvfu5mB6zm548y0_yQnEwA0xvGsCcFJfOtA8L5onKNTbGnxuaQadNgcmQ1Pi4AJy7WNlR5afZs1gfLl57LMpxIaps0DoMxEfN5JRO4YonjQQMZ6IRSkJbROFrJI8CnuSLs/s320/DSCN648466.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />And now for my next challenge.. the closet doors.  They are too choppy with the three colours ... what to do next? I think I will try painting the inside  rectangles Monroe Bisque the same as the walls. And if that doesn't please me the whole door will be Cloud White.  That light has got to go.  Something softer and more rounded.  Thrift shop or Homesense  here I come.... What about the handles on the bureau? And you can't see the very ugly light fixture that needs replacing.  <br />Stay tuned for more updates.

Growing a room

 Function and budget are two words I use quite a bit in my design work. It makes  no sense to have a beautiful room if it doesn't work...

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High contrast

Do you like dramatic colour schemes? They have too much energy for me to live in, but I certainly find them attractive and I love the edgy a dramatic combination  produces. Contrast always demands attention and there's nothing like a combination of white and black to add high drama to a room.  Getting the colour balance right and finding interesting textures are challenges that must be overcome when you set out to command interest in any room. There can be degrees of contrast in a white/black scheme;  some are toned with the addition of grays or are heightened by the addition of a bold accent colour, some are white with a little black and some are black with a little white..<br /><br />Perhaps you will be inspired to take the leap and create a white and black decor.  These rooms should provide lots of inspiration.  <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/60341/front-door-view-to-stair-contemporary-entry-san-francisco"><img alt="front door view to stair contemporary entry" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/60341_0_8-9732-contemporary-entry.jpg" width="276" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/313/Mark-English-Architects-AIA" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Mark English Architects, AIA</a></small><br /><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;">What an entrance!  Don't you wish you could visit this  house?  </span></small><small><br /></small><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/60347/dining-room-contemporary-dining-room-san-francisco"><img alt="dining room contemporary dining room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/60347_0_8-4835-contemporary-dining-room.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/313/Mark-English-Architects-AIA" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Mark English Architects, AIA</a></small></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;">And now for the view from the opposite end.  </span></small><br /><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7TjI4NaJWxMcXnRGeV0uJPbQnSk8A0nOYroIVGEq_JzHcWsy3yozcuPazSb8Y6hmrUmYNz37qMNGXUpS3gHKjWC26sHvmGJHVpMbxxHLnahazqJaREwv-LaPzyUV9yemn6BgRrWR1SEpO/s1600/Tom+Stringer+Decorati.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7TjI4NaJWxMcXnRGeV0uJPbQnSk8A0nOYroIVGEq_JzHcWsy3yozcuPazSb8Y6hmrUmYNz37qMNGXUpS3gHKjWC26sHvmGJHVpMbxxHLnahazqJaREwv-LaPzyUV9yemn6BgRrWR1SEpO/s400/Tom+Stringer+Decorati.jpg" width="272" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tomstringer.com/">Tom Stringer </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There's no doubt that the geometric rug is the eye catcher in this design . Even the patterned drapes are forced to play second fiddle! The simple hotel bedding calms down the energy of the room and adds a splash of brightness. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibu-54DahDCXGjBdw61oiEfb1Kzfl4zbJC6eLZSVePA7FmaX0RFZJorjKWdVJumTf-iFDf3gsGJRt1cQPia7xv0tdE0eQG57xOapC4QsZtuTJNZO08nDTCw3vo1KCuW_4woDE7McVrd_Xa/s1600/The+Lennoxx.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibu-54DahDCXGjBdw61oiEfb1Kzfl4zbJC6eLZSVePA7FmaX0RFZJorjKWdVJumTf-iFDf3gsGJRt1cQPia7xv0tdE0eQG57xOapC4QsZtuTJNZO08nDTCw3vo1KCuW_4woDE7McVrd_Xa/s400/The+Lennoxx.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kelleyinteriordesign.com/">Kelley Interior Design</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Kelley Proxmire of Kelley Interior Design  creates tailored traditional interiors.  Many of her designs show an "appreciation for the fresh sophistication of white and the daring elegance of black". Strong black walls set the tone for this dramatic bedroom with colourful shell patterned accents.   </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And now for the other side of the room.... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqGCcz1Bmxr5KCqm0mH5H0X1nYu0YYkVkm0PEHubHhr0SATga3JT0e4AHmBwbBa-R4Ps-ygUj0LLGEWniKs7rVC2P7W6_Lg5TVym7LthGHeJ845nf9EFGz9Yxgt7bgVHIIJM3TqPlKHdCd/s1600/23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqGCcz1Bmxr5KCqm0mH5H0X1nYu0YYkVkm0PEHubHhr0SATga3JT0e4AHmBwbBa-R4Ps-ygUj0LLGEWniKs7rVC2P7W6_Lg5TVym7LthGHeJ845nf9EFGz9Yxgt7bgVHIIJM3TqPlKHdCd/s400/23.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Kelley Interior Design</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/60341/front-door-view-to-stair-contemporary-entry-san-francisco"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">Christine Ralphs and Michelle Lloyd make up a dynamic design team (Ralphs Lloyd Design) as you can see from the high contrast rooms I've highlighted below. </span></small> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighRH0LGshQcvS5GEoADCI54ZEuyvQwZ7T3qm7erxQd8CahQuiSZYq92F3o6_RnXxsiYgDDSb3tgGRONfulcTvpqXZAyGzAHcFGSEDTGwQ01LMih64ezLaqVWqmqnmjkNxRPtubQ9vJZ4O/s1600/ContrastKitchen_Jan07.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighRH0LGshQcvS5GEoADCI54ZEuyvQwZ7T3qm7erxQd8CahQuiSZYq92F3o6_RnXxsiYgDDSb3tgGRONfulcTvpqXZAyGzAHcFGSEDTGwQ01LMih64ezLaqVWqmqnmjkNxRPtubQ9vJZ4O/s400/ContrastKitchen_Jan07.jpg" width="385" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHcdenUo_R7ceyW6xUEqUcaKnsWhXbiHOcUpsO7gXH8dU4rTd59LxZ3CxulpkFI0UOiu7OJsvMp1ISGhvm3Gibhi4pWqVP-zz5NgbyqT_SY_daZwj7hEiC-xsF6_8wkKH1z9KLyzRiLePI/s1600/Tamara+Magel+Home.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://s63784.gridserver.com/live/lrd/">LLoyd Ralphs Design</a></small></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> In this one white is the predominant colour with just enough black to provide contrast. The addition of the yellow flowers adds a simple but commanding touch.</span></small></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO9rEep_svM-umg80XmjQdLIPAypxfFVVskyNjGmvW4jmVac86V4n4ehFb5ksT9JbP4KUGe8GbSH0luuYBAFZvqqRdIgDEB1yr74Co5YWQMqvIYkt203Iu7NVYetTnkA-gV2i2HLphyphenhyphenia_/s1600/Lloyd+Ralphs+design+HH.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO9rEep_svM-umg80XmjQdLIPAypxfFVVskyNjGmvW4jmVac86V4n4ehFb5ksT9JbP4KUGe8GbSH0luuYBAFZvqqRdIgDEB1yr74Co5YWQMqvIYkt203Iu7NVYetTnkA-gV2i2HLphyphenhyphenia_/s400/Lloyd+Ralphs+design+HH.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span>Lloyd Ralphs Design</small></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><small><br /></small></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">The addition of soft gray white on the walls  of this bedroom provides a soothing backdrop for this mostly white design. The splash of yellow again - just enough to provide a touch of energy.  </span></small></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMFz2tPN36L77mPt_bjb2n-1hG7d-3jvvlsS-GbOOrE3fsK0sXobpN-DAmqx7h_ZD13KZabIqrmBJIGIOFeKITV-02qsOgBcz-lCO2PYxIQhL4yycpy4u5xPKBn9myvUyFBc3U2XKvBvP/s1600/res0301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheMFz2tPN36L77mPt_bjb2n-1hG7d-3jvvlsS-GbOOrE3fsK0sXobpN-DAmqx7h_ZD13KZabIqrmBJIGIOFeKITV-02qsOgBcz-lCO2PYxIQhL4yycpy4u5xPKBn9myvUyFBc3U2XKvBvP/s400/res0301.jpg" width="393" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span>Lloyd Ralphs Design</small></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><small><br /></small></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> This is another room anchored by a dramatic area rug.  When you choose something this strong you've already established your future selections.  Note the touch of yellow  in the paintings. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/24888/Showhouse-contemporary-family-room-atlanta"><img alt="Showhouse contemporary family room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/24888_0_8-4354-contemporary-family-room.jpg" width="293" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/family-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/3360/Dillard-Design-Group-LLC" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Dillard Design Group, LLC</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">Red is another colour frequently seen as an accent with white and black. This room has just enough of it for my taste.  Judicious use of red with black is important to prevent that bordello look you probably wouldn't want to have in your house.  Love the artwork. </span> </small></div></div><br /><div style="color: #444444;"><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQwIVBc0ONGGIZ4TMHvSpkJ6opqdCo8KVLAaO9_LIx_ayNS2Hu3hB18huXmqvARVANU7OyAE_R3xYBXNsPdoQ4bsN5INl-hQVGqLBcfsIPv2NSLYnuitAPN73Wgjm6AhfOXqaA6anpYZWx/s1600/uten-navn2lennoxx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQwIVBc0ONGGIZ4TMHvSpkJ6opqdCo8KVLAaO9_LIx_ayNS2Hu3hB18huXmqvARVANU7OyAE_R3xYBXNsPdoQ4bsN5INl-hQVGqLBcfsIPv2NSLYnuitAPN73Wgjm6AhfOXqaA6anpYZWx/s400/uten-navn2lennoxx.jpg" width="317" /></a></div><small><a href="http://tobifairley.com/">Tobi Fairley</a></small><br /><small><br /><a href="http://s63784.gridserver.com/live/lrd/"></a></small><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> Black with a hint of green in accents is one of my favourite combinations.  Designer Greg Natale  has created beautiful rooms black and white rooms with just touches of green.  </span></small></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXMRZ5ofcDahHE8Oo-dPz40FArwyHlONc_0KlJIkxVEjPNHx3LkjG_ePs-ZuA23-sJ9phSAobq225O5ovtDyjhPT1GXTFzlVd-v-58Oo0HVea0lC5eGTQO2cDdbqR8wp9C6_jVF0ydDfBI/s1600/24_768+Greg+natale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXMRZ5ofcDahHE8Oo-dPz40FArwyHlONc_0KlJIkxVEjPNHx3LkjG_ePs-ZuA23-sJ9phSAobq225O5ovtDyjhPT1GXTFzlVd-v-58Oo0HVea0lC5eGTQO2cDdbqR8wp9C6_jVF0ydDfBI/s400/24_768+Greg+natale.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> <a href="http://www.gregnatale.com/index.php?id=8">Greg Natale</a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxRXlZ4XLmstcRfzaglHClaY44q841GbT5FYO7WCLacHpMWfEOMzgTzEUPI5MwSzszR8SYSdxgWHTPuzjE8u9uPVBAKh6Loh5sqTuUUfZVOmLTdipWJtEn6EtTosEQgW7FOl-x0kbCwR0/s1600/13_768.greg+natale.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxRXlZ4XLmstcRfzaglHClaY44q841GbT5FYO7WCLacHpMWfEOMzgTzEUPI5MwSzszR8SYSdxgWHTPuzjE8u9uPVBAKh6Loh5sqTuUUfZVOmLTdipWJtEn6EtTosEQgW7FOl-x0kbCwR0/s400/13_768.greg+natale.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><small> </small><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">When you view the portfolio of Sydney designer Greg Natale  you quickly recognize that he has a way with using black and white and subtle accents of colour.  In this  room it's green in the rug and repeated again in the ferns. </span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2tqN4eLT8WIj1xgL7jB1ZIzPY6yx-_ioWaPT1-ucfEmt277W7te8BeNosf4mzrky_R0A7FV-sB27kwh886Zbgcj3MfhSyAc04tNT0lG6DX0P_ZaDoHFwiGPVr1XCDvYfoD-UiFlCYY2Mm/s1600/2_1200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2tqN4eLT8WIj1xgL7jB1ZIzPY6yx-_ioWaPT1-ucfEmt277W7te8BeNosf4mzrky_R0A7FV-sB27kwh886Zbgcj3MfhSyAc04tNT0lG6DX0P_ZaDoHFwiGPVr1XCDvYfoD-UiFlCYY2Mm/s400/2_1200.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> Greg Natale</span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></small></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSYIEjUlX-aJEPetxU53T_rx93kKZ_4nknnlog7XhXTMBzy4fd_mTmWfP6HFc51q80XyIPU1HCWw2pvgyW4OffzhiXrK6KDmY9dHQRo6oba-7BEBRIQrhX8V4pnNYtasEqy4WKBRTvtbxY/s1600/33_768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSYIEjUlX-aJEPetxU53T_rx93kKZ_4nknnlog7XhXTMBzy4fd_mTmWfP6HFc51q80XyIPU1HCWw2pvgyW4OffzhiXrK6KDmY9dHQRo6oba-7BEBRIQrhX8V4pnNYtasEqy4WKBRTvtbxY/s400/33_768.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">Greg Natale</span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">Have you noticed that one of the elements present in many of these  high contrast rooms is a strongly patterned area rug?</span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">White with some black, black with a little white, white and black with a colour accent... Which do you prefer? </span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></small></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div></div>

High contrast

Do you like dramatic colour schemes? They have too much energy for me to live in, but I certainly find them attractive and I love the edgy a...

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Choosing bedside tables

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNADwCH_GpmrZdYWVz6IuWtgiopV9KabI0ULAtCTF5GAw06HdF5LrshIl2RUsmIos0yKurNZt5hO9aKWVUWKZkG6XrAq2NCZVyTFnRpGOAJ_AOxDjYhczQtApVojSmN5i3GWKqQpnirIa/s1600/92adef8802a6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I am not fond of bedroom suites  or sets of anything really.  It is so much more interesting to see a well collected room where individual pieces have been thought out  with each piece adding individual notes to the overall design.  The minute you decide not to buy a  complete set you  have to start thinking about what, how many, how high, what colour,  etc.   Wonder no more!  Here are pointers that will help you choose interesting and design friendly furniture for your bedside.  </span></span><br /><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>How High?</b></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Your bedside tables  should not be so low that they look dwarfed by the bed  or so high that you have to reach way up to turn on a lamp. When your tables are the same height as your mattress (my preference) they provide a pleasing visual line all the way across.</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/33977/AbbeyK--Inc--traditional-bedroom-boston"><img alt="AbbeyK, Inc. traditional bedroom" border="0" height="300" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/33977_0_3-3137-traditional-bedroom.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/4384/Abbeyk-Inc" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Abbeyk, Inc.</a></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">These mirrored cabinets make great bedside tables.  They reflect the colours around them adding additional interest and provide plenty of storage.  The height makes them easily accessible from the bed with tops wide enough to hold lamps and other objects.  Although they are large they do not look large because of the mirrored surface - a great addition to any decor.   </span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">  </span></div></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The most important thing to consider is the scale of the table when compared to the bed. If you have a king size bed you need a larger bedside table ranging from 20" - 40" wide. </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A table should not be dwarfed by a bed.</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/43996/Malibu-Mediterranean-mediterranean-bedroom-los-angeles"><img alt="Malibu Mediterranean mediterranean bedroom" border="0" height="520" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/43996_0_8-2472-mediterranean-bedroom.jpg" width="362" /></a></span> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/2253/Tracy-Murdock-Allied-ASID" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Tracy Murdock Allied ASID</a></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">When you don't have much space it if often better to go without a table .  In this situation the table isn't functional because there isn't any room to place anything on it.  </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> A three drawer chest usually works out well as a bedside table for beds that have a higher headboard.  It would not be visually pleasing to have the top of the chest and the headboard the same height. </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNADwCH_GpmrZdYWVz6IuWtgiopV9KabI0ULAtCTF5GAw06HdF5LrshIl2RUsmIos0yKurNZt5hO9aKWVUWKZkG6XrAq2NCZVyTFnRpGOAJ_AOxDjYhczQtApVojSmN5i3GWKqQpnirIa/s1600/92adef8802a6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNADwCH_GpmrZdYWVz6IuWtgiopV9KabI0ULAtCTF5GAw06HdF5LrshIl2RUsmIos0yKurNZt5hO9aKWVUWKZkG6XrAq2NCZVyTFnRpGOAJ_AOxDjYhczQtApVojSmN5i3GWKqQpnirIa/s640/92adef8802a6.jpg" width="480" /></a></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.decorpad.com/photo.htm?photoId=86307&index=10&currentPage=1&searchQuery=bedrooms&searchType=photos&spaceId=3">via  Decor Pad </a></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj70bgSSNRyDBlYA_NFH_SdDAYQXyRiiWZKejGsSy96foSlSDkWBDFdrmo3of_2ArwiadjUAnlXeZDubDd-ov9KzEW6T5nvYKDk_9sFw2jXs_6iLH26UadSNUl_V5Ev1pJiU-E-1m1f6Gk0/s1600/d557d320c05a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj70bgSSNRyDBlYA_NFH_SdDAYQXyRiiWZKejGsSy96foSlSDkWBDFdrmo3of_2ArwiadjUAnlXeZDubDd-ov9KzEW6T5nvYKDk_9sFw2jXs_6iLH26UadSNUl_V5Ev1pJiU-E-1m1f6Gk0/s400/d557d320c05a.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.decorpad.com/photo.htm?photoId=85323&index=21&currentPage=3&searchQuery=bedrooms&searchType=photos&spaceId=3"> via decor pad</a></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/96615/Bedroom-eclectic-bedroom-other-metros"><img alt="Bedroom eclectic bedroom" border="0" height="667" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/96615_0_8-4655-eclectic-bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/12854/Atypical-Type-A" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Atypical Type A</a> </span></div><br /><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/121302/Habachy-Designs-contemporary-bedroom-atlanta"><img alt="Habachy Designs contemporary bedroom" border="0" height="333" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/121302_0_8-2343-contemporary-bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/16567/Habachy-Designs" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Habachy Designs</a></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Modular furniture usually has a  bedside table lower than the mattress but the lines of the platform integrate the tables into a cohesive unit.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Do they have to match?</b></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Not in my book.  I think it looks more interesting when bedside tables don't match, but it is more difficult to know what to put together.  </span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/165244/Bedrom-traditional-bedroom-minneapolis"><img alt="Bedrom traditional bedroom" border="0" height="333" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/165244_0_8-3078-traditional-bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/21399/Stonewood-LLC" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Stonewood, LLC</a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">If you  choose matching bedside tables consider using a padded headboard to break up the matching wood tones. </span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/41198/Our-Home-contemporary-bedroom-seattle"><br /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2089405769" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSapVJe0Mc_rqAANKn3Vh5JZgj7OtBb6k8fCSZooTKU9_MmZsohSwiLj4-MI5GGe0qI-hBIo4u-YHbfKMZCwNSq8URunnwvlhon4tt3DkPfmOb7b7HjH_KQAxueiwM-_wIWsMI0gmjPI8l/s400/adams_Hartl_Bedroom2_lg.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.hgtv.com/designers-portfolio/room/eclectic/bedrooms/713/index.html#/id-439/room-bedrooms">HGTV</a></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5nFBGWOGECsDhgmyzw5LdWm0REkvjUPXiRpprvZJStPtfWncFnwiNgsNdhOMWrOMS_-4XAtAJ0wiw_9iObfJOONe_-cxHNyem52METy-CuuDZFo1tkz2CMWE1jfklaverA1Ip12Uf_ihr/s1600/DP_Griffin-traditional-guest-bedroom_s4x3_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5nFBGWOGECsDhgmyzw5LdWm0REkvjUPXiRpprvZJStPtfWncFnwiNgsNdhOMWrOMS_-4XAtAJ0wiw_9iObfJOONe_-cxHNyem52METy-CuuDZFo1tkz2CMWE1jfklaverA1Ip12Uf_ihr/s400/DP_Griffin-traditional-guest-bedroom_s4x3_lg.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.hgtv.com/designers-portfolio/room/contemporary/bedrooms/4608/index.html#/id-3797/room-bedrooms">HGTV </a></span></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I like to pair a rectangular table with a round table especially if the bed is near a corner on one side. </span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div></div><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/72810/LAS-VEGAS-home--bedroom-other-metros"><img alt="LAS VEGAS home bedroom" border="0" height="333" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/72810_0_8-9869--bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designer/" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">AB Home Interiors </span></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"> In this room one of the bedside tables is a  desk which could also convert into a dressing table. Multi-functional furniture provides many options in a smaller home. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><b>What else could I use?  </b></span></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/2253/Tracy-Murdock-Allied-ASID" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"><br /></a></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/31985/Centsational-girl-traditional-bedroom-other-metros"><img alt="Centsational girl traditional bedroom" border="0" height="599" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/31985_0_8-7530-traditional-bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/10907/Centsational-Girl" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Centsational Girl</a></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">The covered table has been around for years but with a glass top it continues to look soft and elegant when paired with more traditional  furniture. </span></div></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/106714/Guest-Bedroom--eclectic-bedroom-other-metros"><img alt="Guest Bedroom. eclectic bedroom" border="0" height="333" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/106714_0_8-7333-eclectic-bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/14152/Michelle-Hinckley" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Michelle Hinckley</a></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Shelves attached on either side of a bed is a real space saver in a small room.  </span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/44424/Boys-bedroom-traditional-kids-other-metros"><img alt="Boys bedroom traditional kids" border="0" height="750" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/44424_0_8-6942-traditional-kids.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional/kids" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Seaside Interiors </a> </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQELzjDS5wFGT1DrGBCvwINl_S7nAbbfI1_MoA3vOgy_VKmaQ_Uq2vXQyF-KeJn_yuSZX0A4E8mapTrMfCU-eWIAXwA5-NA1QxXlX9LIqR9c6tlDPxCOZaK52KsWqn6dK6H-btCPqShOEE/s1600/Louis+Vuitton+Bedroom.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQELzjDS5wFGT1DrGBCvwINl_S7nAbbfI1_MoA3vOgy_VKmaQ_Uq2vXQyF-KeJn_yuSZX0A4E8mapTrMfCU-eWIAXwA5-NA1QxXlX9LIqR9c6tlDPxCOZaK52KsWqn6dK6H-btCPqShOEE/s640/Louis+Vuitton+Bedroom.jpg" width="499" /></a></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Trunks and suitcases make great bedside tables. </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1EDGjAf0bcChTUUU-G8WkISAIuUTNBX6fPj9MXdfj1w1yEiAKwRbvUKFprNWljzfHoWNYYJIBAqno2ypqcNfd9livaD9IMXvbvWqrJwDTN4jtjU8VWD3fpZOJij16qV2DKFzFdNUKIVs5/s1600/nighttable_19ST2_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1EDGjAf0bcChTUUU-G8WkISAIuUTNBX6fPj9MXdfj1w1yEiAKwRbvUKFprNWljzfHoWNYYJIBAqno2ypqcNfd9livaD9IMXvbvWqrJwDTN4jtjU8VWD3fpZOJij16qV2DKFzFdNUKIVs5/s400/nighttable_19ST2_lg.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.hgtv.com/decorating/5-unique-bedroom-nightstands/page-4.html">HGTV</a></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">A coffee table  is a great idea.  I like the way the three photos mimic the three pillows on the bed.  This type of repetition helps to control the scale of the coffee table.</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJk8lVynrTUfqLpeKJGsUBYCtJHMCq2bWlD1MR9fgjfbCOiA5QRajm7rKEQHwUiOl3rf9AFYHZR3_4EKsdTW15ewknw0wpreR6X89mtjT2Hiw6fYUtMWw26IdQQzq9dz4axHbr1ASVeSdY/s1600/high+chair+end+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJk8lVynrTUfqLpeKJGsUBYCtJHMCq2bWlD1MR9fgjfbCOiA5QRajm7rKEQHwUiOl3rf9AFYHZR3_4EKsdTW15ewknw0wpreR6X89mtjT2Hiw6fYUtMWw26IdQQzq9dz4axHbr1ASVeSdY/s400/high+chair+end+table.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://sagegoingongreen.blogspot.com/2009/08/unexpected-bedside-tables.html">The Urban Un-Martha </a></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">In a country home a high chair does not look out of place as a bedside table. </span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/55880/Canadian-Cottage-traditional-bedroom-other-metros"><img alt="Canadian Cottage traditional bedroom" border="0" height="334" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/55880_0_8-1324-traditional-bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Another great option for an informal look is a small kitchen table  with folding sides.  I like the way the lines support the slanted lines of the roof. If I could change one thing I would have a lamp with a little more volume and height. </span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/53670/Summer-Home-contemporary-bedroom-chicago"><img alt="Summer Home contemporary bedroom" border="0" height="333" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/53670_0_8-5547-contemporary-bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/bedroom" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/6678/Nora-Schneider-Interior-Design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Nora Schneider Interior Design</a></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Attaching peeled logs together once cut to a standard length makes a very interesting bedside table.  Depending on where you live this could be a very inexpensive solution especially for a more rustic/cottagey decor. </span></small></div></div>

Choosing bedside tables

I am not fond of bedroom suites  or sets of anything really.  It is so much more interesting to see a well collected room where individual p...

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5 Kids' window treatments with a twist

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">There are so many fantastic ideas for economical window treatments.    Here are 5 of my favouites from Better Homes and Gardens website that could be used for kid's rooms. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lZDEYXoCw5NmGjENc-u32olSCHOqi3ZcgV_loQS4jShzKqhdcm6tQichwTX0zj6aSDm2cgCMMGDH_IyoDW0ugTqF-8akzyG3HgLnZ6PiVqxlzlV-ITG7lGt35HVRtQbYBsk0kVsjDgLW/s1600/bhg_101178337.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lZDEYXoCw5NmGjENc-u32olSCHOqi3ZcgV_loQS4jShzKqhdcm6tQichwTX0zj6aSDm2cgCMMGDH_IyoDW0ugTqF-8akzyG3HgLnZ6PiVqxlzlV-ITG7lGt35HVRtQbYBsk0kVsjDgLW/s400/bhg_101178337.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lZDEYXoCw5NmGjENc-u32olSCHOqi3ZcgV_loQS4jShzKqhdcm6tQichwTX0zj6aSDm2cgCMMGDH_IyoDW0ugTqF-8akzyG3HgLnZ6PiVqxlzlV-ITG7lGt35HVRtQbYBsk0kVsjDgLW/s1600/bhg_101178337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lZDEYXoCw5NmGjENc-u32olSCHOqi3ZcgV_loQS4jShzKqhdcm6tQichwTX0zj6aSDm2cgCMMGDH_IyoDW0ugTqF-8akzyG3HgLnZ6PiVqxlzlV-ITG7lGt35HVRtQbYBsk0kVsjDgLW/s1600/bhg_101178337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/window-treatments/window-projects/bargain-window-treatment-ideas/?page=5">BHG</a></span></div><b> Fun and Funky Buttons</b><br /><br />You can buy jars of mismatched buttons for very reasonable prices and have a field day decorating drapes for kids'  rooms.  Glue them on rather than sewing them which is time consuming. This idea would not work in a young child's room for safety reasons. <br />buttons                                                         <a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/window-treatments/window-projects/bargain-window-treatment-ideas/?page=5"></a><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg924onCf9UIg8wRrVlnkeU_fmxmRhVPOhaFYWTRXef5hI9y98sTGx8eAQ40jOgD_PiIzXMszfi_IdnHhT5q3z9TaL236boFinhItBGnlVEjTRQ9lPjzWuKFXKaPY9dVeKSNDqHUCqwdEKc/s1600/ss_101178351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg924onCf9UIg8wRrVlnkeU_fmxmRhVPOhaFYWTRXef5hI9y98sTGx8eAQ40jOgD_PiIzXMszfi_IdnHhT5q3z9TaL236boFinhItBGnlVEjTRQ9lPjzWuKFXKaPY9dVeKSNDqHUCqwdEKc/s400/ss_101178351.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/window-treatments/window-projects/bargain-window-treatment-ideas/?page=13">BHG</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Geometric Borders </span></b></span></div><br />Follow the link under the photo for ideas on how to apply these fabric diamonds to a plain panel. <b> </b>You could also make a diamond stencil from cardboard and paint the diamonds with fabric paint. <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8PQRocPGxGcBJyGBRakU7dEs9FlOwU9HVoJfjXO3FbAygw2riW641fLIj3tB25O5Ls147qW-QeegMtAMI2V7yGqBGlP0rwUxP7pr2GMJeJ5YCeYf2CRhUIIxnJmGHHSd-202fF77D8LNC/s1600/ss_101178343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8PQRocPGxGcBJyGBRakU7dEs9FlOwU9HVoJfjXO3FbAygw2riW641fLIj3tB25O5Ls147qW-QeegMtAMI2V7yGqBGlP0rwUxP7pr2GMJeJ5YCeYf2CRhUIIxnJmGHHSd-202fF77D8LNC/s400/ss_101178343.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/window-treatments/window-projects/bargain-window-treatment-ideas/?page=19"> BHG</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Princess Sheers </span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is such a cute idea for a little girl's room to  add richness and softness to plain drapes. I like the application of the diamond belt buckle for that extra bit of glitz. .  Check the Better Homes and Gardens  link for directions. </span></div><br /><b><br /></b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06lMqYA8OKxqkY9FyIVlgWbSCgGf3OXlNGCrxrxLd_a8D6hvWT21y59wLaysjjC8TCWQUwzuZ4qU5RrYDuCGBtCLBdNc7oTbEpQ7eMb3idKp5ur5wTYTzhKTiD5a1eSNJKTSQVYp6l39M/s1600/ss_100077303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06lMqYA8OKxqkY9FyIVlgWbSCgGf3OXlNGCrxrxLd_a8D6hvWT21y59wLaysjjC8TCWQUwzuZ4qU5RrYDuCGBtCLBdNc7oTbEpQ7eMb3idKp5ur5wTYTzhKTiD5a1eSNJKTSQVYp6l39M/s400/ss_100077303.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/window-treatments/no-sew-windows/easy-no-sew-window-treatments/"> BHG</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"> <b>Velvet Ribbons </b></div><br />Dress up any draperies with velvet ribbon applied using washable fabric glue.Nothing beats white for a fresh crisp look and lots of colour options.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT1t6ae_MgdrzZHwOhOcO6-z4ffW1wWPXgs3zdHTjofNSxYOx-5bGPB2OJtv0AX46WpmxIqD5ekOjNbpvcd5Wy7QEp6tKnFOyAKt3-R6tIETgIwPM183Vu07ss-S8wG0Lj9Wtd2eDHnoHp/s1600/ss_101178346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT1t6ae_MgdrzZHwOhOcO6-z4ffW1wWPXgs3zdHTjofNSxYOx-5bGPB2OJtv0AX46WpmxIqD5ekOjNbpvcd5Wy7QEp6tKnFOyAKt3-R6tIETgIwPM183Vu07ss-S8wG0Lj9Wtd2eDHnoHp/s400/ss_101178346.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/window-treatments/window-projects/bargain-window-treatment-ideas/?page=3"> BHG</a></div><b> Name stencils</b><br /><br />Purchase large letter stencils to decorate draperies.  The vertical application on one side is interesting and unexpected. Trace the letters with a pencil and paint inside the lines. Great for a boy's room.

5 Kids' window treatments with a twist

There are so many fantastic ideas for economical window treatments.    Here are 5 of my favouites from Better Homes and Gardens website that...

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Take a closer look

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydG4NlCt-qVAM3OW5nPzSaP0FvktvMJC_M1z-06ZzcBlBFSMWBM7BIVhqJxtSfZH-g3C3gpgrxb9X_-lq5TjwTQVelBRZ_pJDfnjTkDuCzRtBz6mNkey1wBRgiX8rHq8vQnq8AUNKPH8t/s1600/sven_everaerd5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydG4NlCt-qVAM3OW5nPzSaP0FvktvMJC_M1z-06ZzcBlBFSMWBM7BIVhqJxtSfZH-g3C3gpgrxb9X_-lq5TjwTQVelBRZ_pJDfnjTkDuCzRtBz6mNkey1wBRgiX8rHq8vQnq8AUNKPH8t/s400/sven_everaerd5.png" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXuwx3JJLF1Su6KJbvj64MjrAU9_xlSJKC_Zswf9UWN1Wb20jcKZtoZNOGSiuzFfUqiOq8z9b07iVAKjjRWW6jLh9Ievgx7i-o6mm7-Oyhga0VYKde1VdgIpUWClBiCBr26_Gsn51JOQXm/s1600/sven_everaerd.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXuwx3JJLF1Su6KJbvj64MjrAU9_xlSJKC_Zswf9UWN1Wb20jcKZtoZNOGSiuzFfUqiOq8z9b07iVAKjjRWW6jLh9Ievgx7i-o6mm7-Oyhga0VYKde1VdgIpUWClBiCBr26_Gsn51JOQXm/s400/sven_everaerd.png" width="266" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.vartnyahem.se/hem/artiklar/2011-05/Helt_naturligt/">source </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> The room above works because of its mix of various materials with a neutral palette.   I kept returning to <a href="http://beautycomma.blogspot.com/"> beauty comma</a>  to look at it over several days.  When you are drawn back to a room it is worthwhile to examine what aspects of it you like.  That was easy for me in this case- everything. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Why does this room work in my view? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><ul><li><b>blond woods</b> are my favourite and have always been since I was in my twenties- no ebony or mahogony for me. I like my wood to integrate with the other elements in a room, not stand out. I like to use wood for its texture, not colour. </li><li><b>clean lines</b> allow your eyes to move over an object and  on to something else.They create visual flow in a room which works to create a  relaxing atmosphere.  Boxy is better in my view because these lines seem to fit/follow the envelope of a room .  Rectangular shapes can be softened by  accessories and softer textiles.</li><li> <b>sculptural shapes</b>  are added in the lamp, vases, boxes  and rock like structures in front of the window. There are other shapes hiding. Have a closer look. The selection of these accessories were not done in haste because they play perfectly with each other. This room depends on sculpture as an art form.  Notice there are no two dimensional art pieces on the walls.  </li><li><b>variety in  textiles</b> (pattern, texture) is a must to support a mainly monochromatic room. The play of the striped rug  against the furry one  is wonderful.  </li><li><b>the absence of jarring colour</b> makes this room a calm retreat.  It is a room I could spend many hours in and still find it interesting because of the texture and shapes.  Less is always more in colour.  </li><li><b>bringing the outdoors in</b> by minimizing window treatments and utilizing the glimpses of nature as art.</li></ul>What about this room in comparison?<br /><br /><br />It has many of the characteristics noted above but a much darker palette.  Texture and sculptural forms are dominant. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5jaSyh8WTxffnS26Cx_nKcHEv4ON5FgtreBsf-vvATRcgzj05lS3qFiQQaYFEpAE3Fu2dRH_-c_r1o_w3ruP04PgClcQmNnedTOnRHFCiRKHkzAzYlIpu8LGeMOSbbc6RpHRT1VIwC6G/s1600/Matt_Costigan_Vignette_VA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig5jaSyh8WTxffnS26Cx_nKcHEv4ON5FgtreBsf-vvATRcgzj05lS3qFiQQaYFEpAE3Fu2dRH_-c_r1o_w3ruP04PgClcQmNnedTOnRHFCiRKHkzAzYlIpu8LGeMOSbbc6RpHRT1VIwC6G/s400/Matt_Costigan_Vignette_VA.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Matt Costigan via <a href="http://decorica.blogspot.com/">Decoria </a></div>

Take a closer look

source  The room above works because of its mix of various materials with a neutral palette.   I kept returning to  beauty comma   to look...

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Style like a pro -Texture

<b><br /></b><br /><b> </b>Colour is the most obvious element in interior design because of its boldness or starkenss. Homeowners constantly update their rooms with colour changes, but what about all the other design elements?  For example, have you given your room a texture update lately? Texture is simply using a variety of  finishes in a room and it is easily improved by varying the composition of products in a room, e.g., glass,  woods, metal, plastic, cotton, velvet, lacquer, leather, ceramic. etc. Stop and look around you. How many different materials have you used in your room? What's your room's texture quotient?  <br /><br />  Texture is the element that gets constantly overlooked  because its effects are subtle. It's one of those things that you take for granted when it is done well, but it's difficult to identify if it isn't , You just know the room looks boring, but you're not sure why. Layering textures gives a room interest and depth.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.jhinteriordesign.com/jhid/">Jessica Helgerson </a> a Portland, Oregon  designer, is a master of texture. Many of her designs, typically clean and uncluttered,  rely on the richness of textures for visual interest.  <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_2A5-0GWLB-xcfgEjy8kE-P_6_AVFSqMEoV0QbYKMzcKlxMgukZI15ApKqeirdN350hNe8Ve4xaMgTEtvyaYmFgevC6paAursHIWVLtr3KKHuIgQEquUaq4qeZhoybNT1sPWanPatWON/s1600/Jessica+Helgerson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_2A5-0GWLB-xcfgEjy8kE-P_6_AVFSqMEoV0QbYKMzcKlxMgukZI15ApKqeirdN350hNe8Ve4xaMgTEtvyaYmFgevC6paAursHIWVLtr3KKHuIgQEquUaq4qeZhoybNT1sPWanPatWON/s400/Jessica+Helgerson.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />This mid-century modern split level ranch house takes on a new life under her skillful direction. The overall feeling is restful and outdoorsy. Furniture choices reflect the style of the home. The vintage finds were reupholstered  in light fabrics of varying textures. The coffee table made from salvaged maple is the center piece of the room. Its irregular edges and smooth surface plays well with  the Portuguese eel traps hanging over the fireplace mantel . Glass is prominent in the French demijohn bottles and ceramic Chinese garden stools are tucked into the room.  The woven area rug stands out against the smooth ebony floors.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-r1A-wZQ-fj85baLJKtH8pwul1_wDaGdug8SX43RFvet38DYJquwdYzeAHNtclrBjiPZC5CYeVUvHz4WanWVWGbvTHCYh93ERYn9mvPTEbNJDjMZkNOgiUbd-urZhaxmLqLydx93ZLD9L/s1600/Jessica+helgerson+dining+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-r1A-wZQ-fj85baLJKtH8pwul1_wDaGdug8SX43RFvet38DYJquwdYzeAHNtclrBjiPZC5CYeVUvHz4WanWVWGbvTHCYh93ERYn9mvPTEbNJDjMZkNOgiUbd-urZhaxmLqLydx93ZLD9L/s400/Jessica+helgerson+dining+.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />At the end of the living room, the dining area continues the themes already established. You get a clearer view of the ceramic Chinese stool and the raised texture on the pillows.  The leather chairs work well against the high gloss wood table.  Plants, vegetables and wicker all work to enhance the  this welcoming room.  Metal chair legs show up well against the ebony floors. Glass and ceramic are evident in this room too. One of the musts in texture usage is to play matte and gloss surfaces off each other with one being more dominant -usually matte. The textures and colours of the outside also play an important role in this room's success. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJs8r9sULGYJX9pmlcgYbBMRau_QT8IYk8I2FN7qZ95JTHrg63agzI-AO_E6El0F_vWo8tpxdaZpT0shAFx9d7Ll2Oists2AIEw7F-LDjrraLr7Pl4s21vOYOgbrltm3_F7TeUmNkJEROo/s1600/Jessica+helgerson+bath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJs8r9sULGYJX9pmlcgYbBMRau_QT8IYk8I2FN7qZ95JTHrg63agzI-AO_E6El0F_vWo8tpxdaZpT0shAFx9d7Ll2Oists2AIEw7F-LDjrraLr7Pl4s21vOYOgbrltm3_F7TeUmNkJEROo/s400/Jessica+helgerson+bath.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Continuing with the white and green theme, this high contrast  bathroom has a lot of texture punch for a small space, Wood, metal, marble, ceramic, glass,  paper, and fabric are blended seamlessly to produce a room that wows.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGnOW_tMaOsIlW4izzWS_Hp-j32GLNX5TotI2_6eLdTYRQgCwBE9uInmzsFT-8f3U2oZUT9I-3Jk1XoqUSQq0BrZDcSS1XeI1gSbUk5rEkhdqJatSX8Qb7cwmJ_jaJMTCDA3r5YuWnElP/s1600/jessica+helgerson+master.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGnOW_tMaOsIlW4izzWS_Hp-j32GLNX5TotI2_6eLdTYRQgCwBE9uInmzsFT-8f3U2oZUT9I-3Jk1XoqUSQq0BrZDcSS1XeI1gSbUk5rEkhdqJatSX8Qb7cwmJ_jaJMTCDA3r5YuWnElP/s400/jessica+helgerson+master.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>And now a little quiz... how many textures are combined to produce this stunning master suite?

Style like a pro -Texture

  Colour is the most obvious element in interior design because of its boldness or starkenss. Homeowners constantly update their rooms with ...

Read more »