Outdoor Design Ideas for that curb appeal

If you have been blessed with an open patch- a yard, terrace, a patio or a porch, the lure of the season is truly hard to resist. The weather calls for soaking in the warmth of the sun to beat the winter blues as also those barbeque lunches and dinners that make this season ever so special. Of course what it also means is picking up some cool outdoor décor ideas. So here goes.

If there is one thing that is likely to endear itself to just about all your guests, it is adding a whole lot of colour to your outdoor design. Think colourful outdoor furniture or even adding colourful accents to your existing furniture. The fuchsia or those royal blue cushions will light up your space in no time. Florals, stripes, ikkat prints all come together to create that colourful melee that perks up the space.  An outdoor rug can add just the warmth that the place needs.

Speaking of outdoor furniture, there is a lot to choose from. Take your pick from that bamboo or wicker furniture that will simply enchant you into believing that you are on an exotic holiday! That it is lightweight is an added perk as you can move it around and create either an intimate setting or one that is more spread out, depending on your guests. Consider having a swinging seat bench that can be the perfect retreat for those me-times. Alternately a hammock is just what you need for that afternoon siesta or the times you want to just curl up with a book.

Space need not be a constraint for your outdoor living ideas. If you are short on space and do not have the luxury of a lounging area, even a corner can be tastefully done! Think of a red bistro table, a piece of art on the wall, few punchy coloured chairs and luxe cushions and you are all set for a great time. This is the perfect spot for a steaming hot cuppa sipped alone or with that significant other.

Vibrant lights, especially when it comes to those evening get togethers are an absolute must when it comes to outdoor décor. Bright Chinese lanterns or even fairy strings can go a long way in adding oodles of character to your open space. For that intimate appeal, consider doing up the place in lots of candles. Hanging lights with planters make for one great combination as well and set the stage for those lovely meet ups. Installing a fire pit is another sure-fire way to add oodles of charm to your outdoor space. Whether you want to do some fire gazing on your own or want to play host, it will act as the perfect backdrop.

When in doubt about the outdoor design idea, just remember to keep it simple. After all fuss free is the time you want to spend outdoors and what better way than keeping the décor fuss free.

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Kitchen design ideas that you cannot have enough of

The true heart of a home, the kitchen is one versatile place. Much more than a space for cooking alone, it is perfect for those cosy meals with family or even entertaining guests. It is only right that your kitchen is done up in a manner that leaves everyone in awe of your style sensibilities.

One way of giving your kitchen a great decorative touch is by the use of colour. You can choose to stick to a monochromatic palette and yet add personality to your kitchen. Black and white makes for one great combination. You could choose to induce the combination by way of checkerboard floor tiles. If your idea of kitchen décor is modern, you can go in for bold colours with a glossy finish. Even if you like to do up the walls in neutral colours, you could add to the kitchen’s character by painting its cabinets in bright colours. A cherry coloured cabinet, for example, is just the right foil to a white kitchen wall. Alternately, dark wood cabinets are a great option to add depth.You could also add a pop of colour to the kitchen through a colourful backsplash. A gingham pattern in a backsplash may just be the perfect way to add both colour and pattern to the kitchen.

An important element of kitchen decor is its storage. Opt for smart space saving storage is not only functional but also aesthetic. A multi cubed shelving unit may just be the right answer to store the many knickknacks that you need to store in the kitchen. Lining the back of the shelves with a creative wallpaper may just be the design flourish that your kitchen needs. Floating shelves on the walls also add to the décor.

 

Think of kitchen designs and accents have a big role to play. Think black accent lights that work particularly well for an open kitchen layout especially for small kitchens. Their craftsmanship is sure to divert the attention away from the size of the kitchen. Your kitchen will also benefit from appliances in an array of bright colours to make that style statement. Bar stools are yet another way to add oodles of character. If ornate is your style you could also benefit from having a black, glossy chandelier in the kitchen.  Doing up the kitchen in stylish accents however need not necessarily mean breaking your bank. When it comes to kitchen ideas, you are limited only by your imagination. Consider colouring old plates with acrylic paint and see them become great conversation starters. A chalkboard wall is another great way to add character to the kitchen. You can perk up the place by using it to display the menu of the day or an inspiring quote that is bound to lift up everyone’s spirits. Making room for your cookbooks in the kitchen is also one great way to add tons of impact to the kitchen.  Food for thought, did we hear you say?

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