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 Update Your Home Amidst COVID Delays
Over the last year and a half, home updates have risen in popularity due to more people spending time inside. This desire has created a huge demand for home furnishings. If you’re one of the people trying to update your home, chances are you’ve run into delays for a lot of furniture and home goods. Production shutdowns in other countries, ports that have no room to unload cargo, and worker shortages for ports and shipping companies have created these unprecedented delays. Often, the most considerable delays are with pieces that use wood or motorized parts.
But this doesn’t mean that you can’t update your home amidst these COVID delays. Instead, look for alternative options that can help you makeover your home in no time.
Here are seven tips for updating your home amidst COVID delays:
1. Buy Local
A Chagrin Falls, Ohio interior decorator says, “Seek out local craftsmen instead of traditional furniture stores. Local artisans can be a great source for side, coffee, dining, and kitchen tables. Some of these designers even have upholstered pieces such as chairs and loveseats.” When you shop locally, you’re supporting your community, and you may have less of a wait time since you might be able to buy pieces already in stock.
2. Go Vintage
Another option is to go vintage. Depending on your style, this could be mid-century, classic, retro, or traditional. Timeless pieces and styles retain their value, especially when they are high-quality pieces. You can search eBay, Etsy, 1stdibs, and other auction sites for vintage pieces. Just be sure to get lots of pictures from all angles before buying, so you know what you are getting.
3. Don’t Customize
Right now is not the time to splurge on custom-designed pieces. In some cases, it can take up to 40 weeks for a customized piece of furniture to arrive at your doorstep. So, if you really need new furniture and can’t wait, don’t customize your selections. Stick with fabrics and models that the retailer has in stock.
4. Refurbish
Another way you can refresh your home amid COVID is to save the new furniture purchases for a later date and update what you have. You can refurbish and reupholster old furniture, which can completely transform a piece and in less time. Who knows? Maybe with a fresh new look, you won’t even want that new furniture down the line.
5. Try Floor Samples
If you still must have new furniture, another option is to check with the retailer about purchasing floor samples. Since these pieces are already on-site, there’s virtually no wait time. And because these are floor samples, you may even be able to negotiate a discount, saving you some money.
6. Shop at a Thrift Store
Another option to avoid long wait times is to visit a thrift store. If you haven’t considered this in the past, it’s worth giving it a try now. With so many people updating their houses, there can be some good home furnishing finds at these places. Make sure to stop in your local thrift stores frequently since items don’t stick around long at these places.
7. Don’t Delay
And lastly, if you’re looking at new home furnishings and see something you like, don’t delay. Now is not the time to wait and see if the price will come down. It might be gone before you decide, and the website or store may not know when, if ever, they will get it back in stock again. So, if you see something you really want, be sure to buy it right away.
Refresh Your Home With No Delay
Long delays don’t mean you can’t update your home right now. Consider it an opportunity to explore some new places. That could be a local artisan, auction sites, or even shopping at a thrift store. If you must purchase new pieces, don’t customize. Instead, ask about floor samples, or buy what’s in stock. And lastly, don’t delay, as it could be gone for good if you wait.
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 Shop for Outdoor Furniture
With summer in full swing, you’re probably ready to soak up the sun outdoors with friends. If your outdoor area lacks a proper setup, it might be time to purchase new furniture. Whether you plan on hosting outdoor dinner parties under the stars or just want a quiet spot to read in the sun, the proper setup can make all the difference.
Read on to discover tips on how to shop for outdoor furniture.
Plan accordingly
Before you look for any furniture, you need to figure out what you want to do with your outdoor space. If you plan to host dinner parties or want to eat outside, a dining table and chairs are necessary. But if you intend to stick to happy hours and casual lounging, you may just need a coffee table and a comfortable seating arrangement. You should also measure your space before you shop to have a rough idea of what dimensions your furniture should be. This way, you will avoid purchasing a dining set that’s too small or an oversized couch.
Know your weather
Most outdoor furniture is made to withstand certain weather conditions. Still, it’s essential that you understand the kind of weather you can generally expect in your area and what works best for your location. If your outdoor space gets a lot of sun, understand that your furniture may have fading issues. If you experience an abundance of rain, you may want to avoid wood furniture as the water can warp it.
Choose comfort
While functionality is important for your outdoor set, be sure to consider your comfort too. Try out your chairs and sofas before purchasing to ensure they won’t leave you and your guests with aches and discomfort. If the set comes with cushions, be sure they are weather resistant and can withstand being left outside occasionally. When you find a beautiful piece that lacks comfort, check to see if inserting cushions or pillows is possible. The more relaxed you and your guests are, the more you will enjoy your time outside.
Select with storage in mind
Most outdoor furniture may be weather resistant, but that doesn’t mean it should be left outside year-round. If you live in a climate with changing seasons, you will want to store your furniture during the colder months. With that in mind, be sure you choose furniture that you know can fit into proper storage. If you’re short on space, there are collapsible and easily disassembled sets that make it easier to put away when not in use.
Add decor
Once you’ve picked your outdoor furniture, you can get started decorating your space. If your outdoor furniture comes with cushions, try to choose patterns that complement your house color. A Mercer County interior decorator recommends coordinating your seat cushions to an outdoor area rug to tie your space together. For dinner parties, consider adding an outdoor bar cart for guests’ easy access. For those with a green thumb, consider hanging annual flowers that match your furniture set.
By following the tips above, you will be able to select the best outdoor furniture for your needs and on your way to an amazing summer!