Best Lighting for the Bedroom
While sleep and rest are the primary activities, they aren’t the only things we get up to in the bedroom. From reading to lounging and getting ready and winding down, everything we do in our bedrooms requires different lighting. Because of this, it can be challenging to determine which light source best suits our many needs.
Read on for tips on the best lighting for the bedroom.
Layer light effectively
Layering your lighting is essential in any room, but especially the bedroom. Start with a primary light source, like an overhead option, and then you can add additional lighting for the different tasks you do in the room. For example, if you tend to read at night, a bedside lamp or sconce is ideal. You won’t have to get up and can read by soft light. If you have a work desk in your bedroom, a desk lamp is crucial, so you don’t strain your eyes. For those of us that like to get ready in the comfort of our bedrooms, a light that allows you to apply your makeup or skincare is a must-have.
Focus on your focal lighting
The primary light source in your bedroom can serve as a statement or be an afterthought. Consider if you would prefer recessed lights or a chandelier. For the former, you must determine if you want flush or semi-flush fixtures. For the latter, you can have fun with your light fixture and choose an antique or vintage chandelier or a modern pendant light. You also want to consider whether you prefer having a ceiling fan, as that will change the type of light fixture you are looking for, says a Mandevilla, LA, interior decorator.
Figure out the right temperature
The temperature of your lighting might not seem so important, but it plays a key role in the bedroom. You don’t want to use cool lights, such as the traditional LED bulbs, as the blueish light will look too harsh and can disrupt your natural circadian rhythm. Instead, opt for bulbs that emit a warmer tone. They will give your room a cozy feeling rather than a clinical one. Your eyes and sleep schedule will thank you.
Experiment with fun
Lighting is a design choice as much as anything, meaning you can really make it your own. Experiment with different, playful lighting, such as LED strips or fairy lights. LED lights can be set up to change colors and can also sync with music played, making them a novelty addition to any room. Fairy lights wrapped around a backboard or strung up throughout the room offer a warm, ethereal glow and can spark some child-like joy for those feeling nostalgic.
Think of the small things
It’s easy to only focus on your main lighting and lamps, but don’t forget the details. Nightlights are one such detail and can come in handy when you wake up in the middle of the night. Dimmers are another detail, and they are especially beneficial when you don’t want full brightness or want to set a certain mood. If you have a partner with a different sleep schedule, portable reading lamps will be your best friend.
Consider how you use the space when deciding what type of lighting you want in your bedroom. Apply the tips above, and you’ll be on your way to a well-lit, very relaxing bedroom.
Guide to Decorating with Clocks
Before the digital age, clocks were an essential part of any household. When smartphones hit the market, these basic timepieces were almost deemed useless. Now, clocks seem to be making a comeback, thanks to Gen-Z and millennials. They make excellent décor features because they come in a variety of styles, including modern, vintage, and eclectic, and add visual interest to any wall.
Read on to discover our guide to decorating with clocks.
Creative gallery wall
A wall clock can make a unique addition to an already established gallery wall. To take it a step further, consider creating an entire collection of different clocks instead of just adding one in with other art pieces. Think of using different-sized clocks to provide spatial variety. In addition, you can include clocks of different aesthetics, such as a retro metal one or a modern chrome clock without numbers. For even more visual interest, consider setting the clocks to different, haphazard times.
Different time zones
Clocks with different time zones aren’t just reserved for multinational office buildings and, in fact, can look stunning in your home. The beauty of this look is you can choose whatever style of clock you want and simply hang three or four side by side or vertically. Consider setting the clocks to times local to family or friends living abroad. If you don’t know anyone located globally, consider choosing locations that you want to visit or are far enough away to include vastly different time zones.
Oversized focal point
Consider hanging an oversized clock if you have a large, blank space that you don’t know how to decorate. Like a gallery wall, a large clock will provide visual interest while creating a focal point for the room. One option is to hang a sunburst clock, which features rays bursting out from the center. You can also choose a minimalist clock or one where the mechanism is built into the wall, and your numbers are free-floating. An oversized clock also works well on an accent wall.
Neon glow
While most of the ideas listed here involve analog clocks, digital clocks also make an excellent décor piece. Trending lately is neon digital clocks hung up on the wall. The beauty of a neon digital clock is that neon comes in many different colors; pink neon will look fun and whimsical in a bedroom, while red neon adds a retro look to any gallery wall. Not only will a neon digital clock look cool, but it will also provide an ever-present, ethereal glow to your room.
Old-fashioned statement
More commonly known as grandfather clocks, floor clocks are often seen as old-fashioned. However, floor clocks are moving beyond your grandparent’s home and are making a comeback in modern households, says a Norman, OK, interior decorator. If the traditional dark wood is not your preference, consider stripping the stain and refinishing the wood to your liking. Floor clocks are a great option to fill an empty corner that you’re having trouble utilizing. Not only do they take up space, but they command attention and add a sense of elegance to your room.
Are you ready to add clocks to your home decor? Whether you want to incorporate them in a gallery wall or use them as a focal point, clocks are sure to add visual interest as well as create conversations in your home.
How to Elevate Your Dorm Room Decor
For many people, the college dorm room presents the first opportunity to take the reins in decorating their own space for the first time. If you are headed to college and living in a dorm, decorating your space can feel overwhelming, especially if you have a roommate with whom to coordinate. Think of this exciting time as an opportunity to express yourself fully and create the space you have always wanted.
Read on to discover five ways you can elevate your dorm room decor.
Smarter Storage
Dorms are notoriously small, so storage is essential. First, if you can, don’t bring your out-of-season clothes with you, as they only take up much-needed space in your closet. An interior decorator in Northern Virginia recommends elevating your bed frame to create additional space for storage underneath. Bonus; what’s under there will also be out of sight. Hooks and temporary hangers are other terrific options, as they allow you to make use of empty wall space. Don’t forget your desk, either; look for desk organizers that keep your supplies in one place and allow you to focus on studying.
Lively Lighting
Lighting is crucial in any room, but dorm rooms often suffer from harsh, fluorescent lights. Fix this by bringing in your own lighting. Stringing up some twinkle lights might be a college stereotype, but that’s because it’s a fun and easy way to add light and decor to your dorm. Add a few floor lamps if your room is dim to prevent your space from looking drab and dreary. Improving your lighting will enhance the look of your entire space.
Cozier Conditions
Many dorms are functionally a slab of concrete and can feel physically and aesthetically cold. Adding some warmth back in will elevate your space and make it more cozy and comfortable. Putting a rug down can keep your feet from freezing and also add texture to your room. Utilize ample throw blankets and pillows for an extra cozy look that is sure to be difficult to part from for classes.
Beautiful Bedding
Your bed often acts as the focal point of your room, so give it the attention and thoughtfulness it deserves. When choosing your bedding, think about how you want to anchor your space. If you have a lot of colorful art or decor, try to keep your bedding neutral, so the art pops in contrast. If you have a more minimal style, a bright solid colored bedding will add visual interest and vibrancy without being too busy.
Delicate Decor
Arguably the most fun part of your dorm is decorating it how you please. Now is the time to really make your space your own. Consider finding art or prints that you like and create a gallery wall. Some online art shops even have curated collections of visually cohesive images, so it takes the guesswork out of creating a gallery wall. If you’re missing your family and friends from home, incorporate their photos in a photo gallery and hang them up above your bed or desk.
College is an exciting time filled with memories and new experiences. We hope the tips above help you create a dorm room that reflects your personality and makes you feel at home during this exciting time.
How to Keep Your Entryway Organized
At the end of a long day, nothing is more discouraging than opening your doorway to a mess. Your entryway often becomes the space where all your day-to-day belongings are tossed, rather than the welcoming space it’s meant to be. If you’re looking to upgrade and organize your entryway to create a more welcoming and pleasant entry experience, look no further for advice on how to get started.
Read on to discover tips on how to keep your entryway organized.
Eliminate clutter
If your entry space is a mess, it is best to start by removing any excess clutter. This is a great time to go through your entryway closet if you have one, as it can often become a hub for discarded items. If you are in warmer months, there is no need to keep your heavy winter coats at the ready. Stow away any out-of-season items to clear up space. If you are overwhelmed by shoes, put away the ones you don’t wear daily. Your entryway will feel much less chaotic with less clutter.
Hang hooks
Hanging hooks is a great way to keep things handy and organized, especially if you are short on space and often forget to grab items on your way out of the house. Consider installing a few small hooks for keys and umbrellas, so they are always ready to go when you are. You can use larger hooks to hang coats and scarves in colder months. If you live in a climate with frequent rain, consider adding a rug below your hook station to catch any running water off your coats and bags.
Store shoes
While it is good practice to take off shoes before entering the home, they can sometimes pile up without realizing it. If you have children or are simply a shoe fanatic, shoe storage is a must for an organized entryway. Cubbies and baskets are a great option, as they keep shoes out of sight. If you prefer a more aesthetically pleasing look, add a shoe rack so you can visually see the shoes at your door. A rack also provides a spot for shoes to dry off should they get wet.
Keep accessories handy
If you don’t prefer the look of hanging hooks, there are still ways to store your accessories. A Claremont, CA interior decorator recommends adding a piece of storage furniture to your entryway, such as a refurbished set of drawers. Not only can this look classy, but you can also store your scarves, keys, and other knick-knacks. Hang a mirror above the furniture and add a tray on top for catch-all items to create a more sophisticated entryway experience.
Prepare for seasons
We’ve all experienced a family member tracking in mud, dirt, and rainwater through the house. To avoid this, make sure your entryway is prepared for whatever weather the seasons may bring. In wetter months, be sure to have a rug out that can trap rain and mud before it gets into your house. Consider adding a heavy-duty tray to the front door area for dirty boots to dry away from clean floors.
If your entryway feels cluttered and chaotic, we hope the above tips will help you organize and restore order to your home’s entrance.
How to Decorate Guest Room
Guest rooms are often overlooked and relegated to acting as a dumping ground for excess stuff and unfinished projects. If you often feel a bit embarrassed by your guest room when friends and family come to visit, it may be time to undertake a makeover. Read on to discover tips and inspiration for decorating your guest room.
Clear out your clutter
Many of us are guilty of using our guest room as a convenient storage unit. An excellent first step when redoing your guest room is to get rid of accumulated clutter. If you still have items remaining after clearing out excess belongings, you can utilize many clever storage hacks. For example, consider putting your bed on risers to maximize space underneath for storage. Or, you could purchase a bed frame that includes storage drawers. Finally, be sure to remove any temporary clutter from the room before your guests’ arrival, such as laundry baskets.
Consider the quality of your linens
Just because it’s your spare bedroom doesn’t mean you have to give guests spare towels and sheets. When redecorating your guest room, it is a good idea to invest in separate, high-quality linens, bedspreads, and towels. Keep in theme with the colors and patterns of the room to create a cohesive look. Not only will your guests feel comfortable and taken care of, but you can rest easier knowing that your guests are happy.
Lighten things up
Lighting is critical in any room and often overlooked in underused spaces such as a guest room. If your overhead lighting isn’t cutting it, consider adding lamps at different places throughout the room to create a well-lit atmosphere. A bedside lamp is especially beneficial for late-night readers. If your room lacks natural lighting, an interior decorator in Richmond, VA, recommends the addition of a mirror. Not only will your guests appreciate the inclusion of a mirror, but it will reflect precious light and make your space feel larger and airier.
Furnish with purpose
Guest rooms are traditionally the smallest room in your home, which can make furnishing them extra challenging. If your place can fit a dresser, consider moving it beside the bed to act as a bedside table. Are dressers and nightstands too bulky? Installing a small shelf beside the bed is a great way to include a tabletop surface without taking up extra space. If you use your guest room as an office, a desk is a great addition. Not only will it provide space for you to do work, but it offers guests a spot to place their belongings and get ready for the day.
Add color and personality
A guest room doesn’t have to be white walls coupled with a white bedspread. If you tend towards neutrals in your home, a guest room could be a fun place to play with color. Paint all the walls (or an accent wall) in a bright color. Add patterned wallpaper. Decorate the walls with the artwork you have been meaning to hang. Include plants or fake flowers to add in color where necessary. Whatever your personality is, try to inject it into the room.
Guest rooms are often an overlooked place for artful decor. By following the tips above, you can create a space both you and your guests love.
How to Design A Kid-Friendly Kitchen
With online learning in full swing and social playdates at a minimum, kids are spending a great deal of time at home. If you have come to realize your house, especially your kitchen, is not as safe or accessible as you would like, you’re not alone. The kitchen is a hot spot for congregating, as well as injury from sharp objects and hot surfaces. Read on to discover design tips for a kid-friendly kitchen so you can minimize worry and maximize fun.
Invest in spill-proof materials
There are few things as horrifying as watching a child spill something on a hard to clean surface. If spills are a common occurrence in your house, you will want to invest in countertops and flooring that are easy to clean. An interior designer in Montgomery, TX, recommends looking for non-porous materials, such as quartz or laminate, for your countertops. If you have a lot of wood surfaces, refinish them with a durable coating that prevents stains and scratches.
Foster cooking curiosity
Kids are naturally curious, especially when it comes to the kitchen. A great way to keep an eye on them while you cook is by including them in the process. A step up stool allows your child to watch what you are doing and makes it easier for them to help and learn. Plus, you avoid a potential accident caused by them trying to jump up and watch you in action. Step stools come in a variety of styles that can fit any kitchen.
Find storage for sharp objects
A common worry for parents is that young children will get into their knives and other sharp objects. To avoid this, consider adding a magnetic strip along the backsplash of your kitchen. This way, you can place your knives away from tiny, grabbing hands. Not only that, but you can also hang spice jars out of reach of curious youngsters who may want to dump out their contents. If you don’t have the space for such a solution, child-proof latches are a good option for your cabinets and drawers.
Use smarter storage
If your child is older and more independent, you may be familiar with the constant flow of questions asking where something is. To avoid messes brought on by a search for cookies and other snacks:
- Switch up how you store pantry items.
- Keep frequently sought after snacks on lower shelves.
- Be consistent with where certain things go to avoid confusion.
- Consider using clear storage containers to cut down on rummaging.
Change your view
Kids can get into some crazy shenanigans while your back is turned. If your cooking space faces away from the action, an island is a practical addition to your kitchen. Not only will you be able to see your kids while you cook, but you have the added benefit of extra storage. You don’t need to remodel your kitchen to include a built-in island; there are many portable options available that you can repurpose once your children get older and no longer require constant supervision.
Your kitchen doesn’t have to be a source of anxiety while your kids spend time at home. We hope that the tips above improve your kitchen design and peace of mind.
How to Turn a Closet into a Workspace
With many people continuing to work from home through the autumn and kids starting back up with online learning, you may find yourself running out of space to get your work done. If everyone working from the kitchen table is not conducive to productivity, consider repurposing a closet into a workspace. Read on to discover tips on how to convert a closet into a workspace.
Measure the space
The first step in almost any home project is to measure the space you are working with. A particularly important measurement in this case is depth; you want to know how big your desk space can be. While it is entirely possible to fit a full desk inside a walk-in closet, you may want to consider making a custom desk if you have less room. One way to do this is to install a shelf and use that as your desktop. This way, you save space and can be confident the desk will fit perfectly in your closet space.
Allow for electricity
Most of us don’t have the luxury of having outlets in our closet. If you are transforming your closet space into a workspace, you will probably need to add wiring and an outlet to hook up a computer or laptop charger. It is best to contact an electrician to do this for you, as rewiring can be tricky and is apt to go wrong if you are unsure of what you are doing. Be sure the outlet’s location allows you to plug in all your necessary equipment, and the wires won’t interfere with your space. If this seems extreme and you have an outlet nearby, an extension cord and power strip should get the job done. However, the addition of electricity enables you to add a lamp or other lighting, which is undoubtedly necessary for a closet workspace.
Install shelving
Given that you probably have a limited amount of space, shelving is crucial for storage in your workspace. Shelving can be used to store any files, binders, or work supplies you need to have on hand. It also eliminates the need for drawers, which can take up precious space. Whatever you plan on storing, be sure to correctly measure from the ceiling to know that it will fit on the shelf.
Do without doors
If your closet space is small or your doors are on sliding frames, you may want to consider removing them. A doorless closet allows for more space, as your actual workspace can spill out a little beyond the door frame. If you would still like to be able to close off your area and keep your work-life somewhat separate from your home life, curtains are a great alternative and only require the addition of a curtain rod.
Make it your own
Your closet office workspace does not have to feel like a storage room. To keep the workspace from appearing like a broom closet under the stairs, a Louisville, KY, interior decorator recommends decorating your space like you would any other room. Paint or add wallpaper to the backdrop of your desk. If possible, hang small artwork or display decor on shelves, such as plants. Adding decor not only makes your space more aesthetically pleasing, but it can motivate you to get your work done, too!
Many of us are looking to create a dedicated work from home space given that some of us don’t know when we’ll be able to return to the office. Whether it’s for you or a child learning from home, we hope the above tips help you to transform an unlikely space into a workspace for productivity.
Must-Have Decor for a New Home
Spring and summer are peak moving seasons, as millions of people find themselves taking advantage of the warmer months to move into their new apartment or home. If you are one of those people, decorating your new space may seem like an intimidating task, especially when it’s on top of the arduous moving process. If you don’t know where to start with decorating, read on to discover seven must-have decor items for a new home.
Wall art
Artwork truly speaks to your tastes and preferences and makes for excellent decor. You may choose to create a gallery wall with your framed art or decide to make one painting or photo the centerpiece of a room. Don’t shy away from statement pieces or different textures, such as a woven piece or metalwork. These types of art add dimension and visual interest to your space.
Mirrors
Mirrors are an excellent decor choice if you don’t have any wall art or cannot find any that fit your style or budget. They brighten up dreary spaces by reflecting light and can make small spaces appear larger than they are. You don’t even have to hang a mirror for it to make a statement; mirrors propped up against a wall look just as stylish. Depending on the frame, a mirror can fit into an assortment of different styles, such as modern, vintage, or eclectic.
Window treatments
Most people would agree that a room seems cold and incomplete without window treatments. Drapes and curtains are a vital addition to any room and can really tie a space together. You can be bold with your window treatments and choose bright colors or patterns, or keep it neutral and let the room speak for itself. Be sure to consider lighting when choosing window treatments, as thicker drapes will not let in as much light as thinner curtains.
Rugs
Rugs can cover any floor you’re not crazy about and add style to boot. If you choose a colorful rug, the tones can provide inspiration for the rest of the room’s color palette. When all of your colors complement each other, your space will feel cohesive and put together. Rugs can also make your home feel cozier, especially if your flooring is stone or tile.
Throw pillows and blankets
Throw pillow and blankets instantly make a room feel more welcoming and intimate. Blankets add texture to your space, while pillows can add color and visual interest. A Prospect, KY, interior decorator recommends purchasing different covers for your pillows so your decor never remains stagnant and can be switched out depending on the season and your preferences.
Light fixtures
Good lighting is critical for any living space. You don’t have to match every light source in every room completely; choosing complementary styles and finishes works beautifully. When choosing light fixtures, try to vary between floor lamps, table lamps, and overhead lighting. Lighting at various levels and locations throughout the room will help create an evenly lit space that looks cohesive and well designed.
Trays and baskets
Trays and baskets are a must-have for creating an organized and beautiful space. Trays can be placed on any table to hold items. Think at the front door for keys or on top of a coffee table for magazines and books. Baskets provide space for bulkier items, such as blankets and board games. With less clutter, your home will feel more spacious and visually pleasing.
Decorating can seem overwhelming, especially when moving into a new space. Use these must-have items as a guide, and your home will be well on its way to looking its best.
How to Style Your Coffee Table
Coffee tables are one of the unsung heroes in any living area. While immaculately decorated coffee tables are frequently pictured on our social media feeds, the reality is that they are often strewn with cups and forgotten magazines. Read on for tips on how to elevate your coffee table from simple to sophisticated.
Keep function in mind
When decorating your coffee table, it is essential to keep in mind how you use it. After all, a perfectly stylized coffee table is useless if you can’t utilize it in the way you want. Do you tend to set your drink on the coffee table? Do you sit at the table to do work? Do you actually flip through and read the books you have displayed? Do you enjoy using it as a surface to play games with friends and family? Keep all this in mind when styling your coffee table so that it remains usable.
Stacking knick-knacks
If you are caught between displaying books or knick-knacks on your coffee table, you need not choose between the two. Placing small decor items on top of two to four stacked books allows for a stylish way to show off both. Stacking also provides visual interest, especially if your coffee table setup was mostly flat. You can stack candles, vases, and other small items to complete the look.
Keep it organized
Coffee tables often feel like the focal point of clutter in living areas, but it doesn’t have to be that way. First, take stock of what is currently on your coffee table and get rid of any books you don’t want or magazines that are well past their relevant date. Once you’re left with the items you want to keep on display, a Pasadena, MD, interior decorator recommends using decorative trays to keep things organized. Depending on the tray’s size, you can place remotes, coasters, or books inside, minimizing the appearance of clutter.
Experiment with shape and size
While there is nothing wrong with a simple coffee table stacked with a book or two, it provides little visual interest. Consider decorating your coffee table with items of varying height, shape, texture, and size. This can look like a tall plant flanked by flat stacks of books or a ceramic bowl paired with potted plants. Varying the shape and size of the items on your coffee table will help your decor feel more dynamic and visually appealing.
Make it personal
Since people tend to gather around a coffee table, it presents the perfect opportunity for you to add a few conversation starters. Instead of displaying curated decor, consider using one of your own collections or personal items. Some examples include shells from a beach vacation or other trinkets from your travels. This way, your coffee table decor is one of a kind and perfectly unique.
Reclaim your coffee table! Long gone are the days where your coffee table serves as a catch-all for your cups, keys, and mail. If you follow the tips above, you can style a coffee table that reflects your interests and taste, while still leaving space for you to rest your coffee in the morning.
Ideas for Your Kid’s Playroom
If you’re stuck at home and find yourself at your wit’s end trying to entertain your child, you’re not alone. Millions of parents now find themselves juggling the roles of teacher, entertainer, and parent alongside their own work responsibilities. If you want to keep your child distracted for longer, consider revamping their playroom. Read on to discover the best ideas to improve your kid’s playroom.
Make storage a priority
If you are working with a small space, finding places to fit all of your child’s belongings might be a challenge. Vertical cubbies on the wall work well because they don’t take up too much room and allow your child to see the toys without rummaging through a storage bin. You can even add fitted containers or bins to your cubbies to make it look neater. An Ankeny, IA, interior decorator recommends utilizing furniture that doubles as storage space — such as seats or benches — to optimize your space.
Weigh your wall options
Bright colors are a great addition to any child’s playroom, especially when you don’t have to commit to repainting the walls. Decals provide an easy way to add individuality and fun to your child’s playroom. You can choose a single sticker of your kid’s favorite movie character or a pattern that serves as a wallpaper (think: crowns for a princess fan). If you have a child who is notorious for writing on the walls, consider painting one wall with chalkboard paint. This will allow your budding Picasso to draw on the wall while saving you hours of frustration and cleaning.
Reel in reading
A playroom can serve as your child’s space to have fun as well as a place to wind down. Encouraging your child to read in between all the fun gives them time to calm down and gives you a break from any potential noise. You can create a special corner just for reading. Consider adding new shelves to house all of their favorite stories. If that’s not possible, simply add a comfortable cushion in your reading nook and place a couple of books beside it.
Include your child in the design
Most children have artwork that they would love to see on display. An easy way to showcase their art is to use it as decor in the playroom. Frames are relatively cheap, and it is easy to change out the designs as your child grows and creates more. You can forego a frame altogether and opt to hang wire or string and clip up your child’s artwork for a budget-friendly option. Including your child’s artwork is a personal touch that will make your child feel that the room is their special place.
Cultivate craftiness
Most kids enjoy working on art projects filled with glitter, glue, macaroni, and the like. If you have a crafty kid on your hands, consider dedicating a space to their crafts. A low table provides an excellent spot for your child to work on any art project or puzzle. While there are special tables designed for children, a coffee table also works fine since it is low enough to the ground. Keep labeled containers of supplies so your crafty kid knows where things are and can work on their projects without asking for help. It’s a good idea to avoid rugs around your craft area, as glue and sparkles can get stuck and be difficult to remove.
We may be inside, but that doesn’t mean your kid cannot have fun. Follow the tips above, and you can create a playroom for your child that keeps them occupied and allows them to have a good time during their days inside.