Living room decor ideas that push its style quotient up several notches

If there is one room that needs to walk the thin line between style and comfort, it is the living room. Irrespective of whether you are looking for a total overhaul of your living room, or want to make some quick changes, here are some living room ideas that will rev up your room like little else. With these living room ideas you will have both, a space you want to come home to as well as one you would love to show-off to your friends.

It absolutely helps to have a focal point in your living room; that fireplace for instance or that large window that floods your room with sunlight. Arrange the rest of the room décor around these focal areas and have your visitors in awe of the room……..and your design capabilities. A massive mirror can also be a cool décor idea for your living room, more so if space is a constraint. See it open up the place like little else. Placing plants in front of the mirror can be a great way to reflect greenery.

When it comes to livingroom furniture, consider adding low, modular sofas that scream casual comfort. You could arrange them in a sectional manner in order to create multi conversation areas. Unless it is a movie night that you are celebrating, when of course there is a single direction that all the seating needs to face.

Another living room idea that adds oodles of charm is to design at every level. What it simply means is to divide the space into low, mid and high levels and ensure each of them are designed well in order to ensure eye movement. A statement rug can be that perfect accessory for the ground level, while a quirky trunk with pillows mesmerizes the eye at mid level. A tall lamp or floor-to-ceiling curtains could keep the interest alive at the higher levels. This could work particularly well for small spaces, where the eye will take in the charms at different levels instead of focusing on the size of the room.

Jewel tones are yet another way to add a sense of joie de vivre to your room. Think sapphire, coral or red to add vibrancy.  Patterned fabrics in these colours, a bright artwork or lamps in bright shades can all add to the living room design. Even if you are a stickler for neutral tones, you can benefit from carefully chosen accessories in these colours. There is no better foil to those white walls than those oversized patterned pillows. The space could also benefit from a touch of the metallic- those photo frames and lamps are ideal. Rethink that staid coffee table and replace it instead with a trunk or African drum tables. You could also look for other statement pieces like that catchy wall sculpture that pushes your living room wall décor by several notches. Speaking of wall décor, a floor-to-ceiling shelving wall adds is the perfect mix of both form and function. Pro tip-  Consider having a  mix of both open and closed shelving to hide those less attractive items.

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Home Decor ideas that scream class!

Doing up your home can sure be one intimidating task. After all you aren’t doing up just a physical space but also offering a sneak peek into your own personality. While there may never be a one shoe fits all approach when it comes to home decor, here’s a whole lot of inspiration which can come in handy.

Bold can certainly be beautiful, if its done tastefully though. You could choose to make a big impact with colours. Take your pick from having neutral walls and adding a dash of colour by way of the home accessories or by sprinkling colour all over the space including the walls.

If there is one easy way to give your home a whole new look, it is by way of its draperies. You could choose to keep the look formal or casual by altering the length of the curtains. There is nothing quite like those floor length drapes for that formal appeal. Alternately you can amp up the romance by going in for sheer curtains or those luxurious silk curtains. Experiment with colours – that bright yellow or the classy purple, there are enough and more options to add to the vibrancy. Remember to choose your curtains in a manner that they flood the room with sunlight and yet offer privacy when you so like.

When it comes to home decor furniture, let your creativity run wild. There is nothing quite like having a quirky piece of furniture that is the perfect conversation starter. Think of a creative bar stool or a stylish side table that is far from mundane and speaks volumes about your style quotient.

Great lighting is yet another way to add a touch of class. In choosing the lighting fixtures though, remember to work backwards from your lighting goal. You could want ambient lighting or could want to highlight a specific area and therefore could do with accent lighting. The thumb rule to follow when it comes to successful lighting is that it should complement the decor. Much like good make up, it needs to highlight the features of the room instead of being the highlight itself.

With modern work life balance being what it is, home decor ideas aren’t quite complete without paying sufficient attention to home office decor. There is no reason for your home office to look like a typical cubicle. Like the rest of the home you could infuse your home office with your distinctive personality too. Even if space is a constraint, you could convert a cosy corner into a comfortable work area. All you need is a desk and a chair and a tall bookcase to transform the space.  Space permitting some shelving and functional storage can transform the space. If space constraints also demand that your workspace also doubles up as a homework zone for your children, it may help to keep the colours vibrant. You could also create a work zone in the living room and see it become the go to place not just for work but also as a quiet reading zone.

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Bedroom decorating ideas that you will adore

Doing up a bedroom, isn’t like doing up just about any other room. After all a bedroom is your private haven, and everything from its colour to the furniture, to its lighting ideas need to come together, for you to be able to relax within its four walls. Here are some bedroom decorating ideas that you will just not have enough of.

Doing up your room in soothing colours is the best way to create a serene space. Go with a misty blue or a green and see its calming effect. You could choose to add a dash of colour though by way of that area rugs, a throw blanket or accent pillows and see your bedroom sing. An eye-catching headboard can be that great focal point too. In fact in doing up your room, you need not splurge on a whole lot of expensive bedroom furniture. An existing bed embellished with a new catchy headboard is just what you may need. A bedroom is more than a place to sleep though and that means you need to add more than a bed when it comes to bedroom furniture. A comfy bench will make the cut. From reading the morning newspaper to sipping an unhurried cuppa, it sure will become your favourite haunt. Adding a love seat to your bedroom can add just the right dose of romance to your life too.

An important aspect of bedroom decoration is to keep it clutter free. You can go in for cheap bedroom cabinets, as long as you organize them correctly. Organizing your clothing based on colour is one way that will help you find whatever that you are looking for, with ease.

There is nothing quite like dreamy lighting that adds to your bedroom’s appeal. You can choose to frame your bed will wall scones. Mirrored scones can add that perfect decorative touch to your room. Accented pendant lights are another fixture that can add to the dramatic appeal. If you are someone who cannot do without a book before you sleep, task lighting such as an arched floor lamp is just your thing.

Another area that can add a touch of class to your bedroom is the window treatment. Those gathered drapes add to the element of romance. Using silk draperies with tassels is a definite mood uplifter. Alternately a mix of sheer and opaque draperies is just what you need to allow natural light to flood the room and yet maintain privacy when you so wish.

Even small bedrooms can create a big impression with the right decor. Adding a feature wall for example can go a long way in taking the attention off the size of the room. Multi purpose furniture, such as a book case that doubles up as a headboard is also something that you can use effectively.

Overall when it comes to bedroom decoration, less is more.  Minimalism as a concept can take some getting used to. However, once pulled off correctly, it can create a space you just cannot get enough of.

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Creative wall decor ideas that you will absolutely love

A large, blank wall is pretty much like a blank canvas waiting to be filled up with your creativity. Done right, it can rev up the room like little else. Here are some easy to implement wall decor ideas that will have you in awe.

 

There isn’t a better way to add character to the room than to do up a wall in an iconic wallpaper. Maps as wallpaper could tell a tale of your many travels. An oversized photograph also does the job as well. Not just the wall but also your sentiments could benefit from having some great family pictures that you cannot get enough of. If your design sensibility borders on the subtle, you could consider having a colour blocked pattern on the wall which speaks volumes about your tastes.  A bold patterned wall, done up in those black and white stripes for instance, is another sure head turner. If you would like to add a touch of glamour to your room, there is nothing quite like a mirrored wall. That it also gives it an illusion of space, is an added perk. If you would like to a add a bit of quirk to your wall decor, chalkboards are just perfect. Not only do they add to the design element, they can be extremely functional too. Use them to leave an inspiring message or even the menu of the day and spread smiles.

Having a large wall covered with a bookshelf is the perfect meeting of form and function. Speaking of wall shelves designs, floating shelves work well to showcase those precious collections. Pep up a lonely corner by stacking up triangular shelving that can showcase your favourite articles. If you want to store some bulky articles, you could consider adding some chunky shelves. Adding shelves of different sizes and stacking them with memorabilia is the perfect way of creating a fun display.

 

Home decor isn’t complete without great lighting. A mix of ambient, accent and task lighting works well. Make a statement with a double chandelier. Alternately go in for coloured light bulbs, India. You are likely to find a modern study lamp online with clean lines that will appeal to your modern sensibilities. Remember to have fun with the colour of the lampshade. A lampshade in a playful colour will add to the overall appeal of the room. Unique fixtures that draw attention to a particular, artwork or furnishing draw attention to the best parts of the room. Chandeliers are perfect to add a touch of glamour. Remember to not have them as the sole source of light, though. A great source of light as well as an aesthetically pleasing option is the pendant lighting.  It just takes some thought out lighting options to have your personality shine through your home. Without the right lighting all other well thought out elements of your room, whether it is the plush seating or the rich upholstery tends not to create the desired impact.

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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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Natural elements adding pizzazz to your decor

Including natural elements in home décor has become the trending topic of the day. They add natural charm to a place and are one of the most effective ways of adding colour and freshness to a space, whether indoor or outdoor. Not everyone is blessed with a green thumb or has the time to clean the dirt associated with potted plants, which is why artificial plant décor is gaining so much favour. They lend the space the same earthy appeal without any of the maintenance hassles associated with natural plants. Also they are highly cost effective and last a long time making the investment well worth it.

A great design idea for decorating a living room is to combine natural artificial plants with natural flowers. Brighten up a dark area with corner flower vase arrangement; roses, orchids and sunflower are the most commonly used flowers. They add bright pops of colour while giving the space a natural earthy appeal.  Your reading nook can particularly benefit from the natural texture and good energy of plants.. Artificial palm trees are also frequently used for living room decor, as they add to the natural look and feel. You can achieve a beautiful mix of both natural and artificial by combining a beautiful centre table arrangement of natural flowers with artificial potted plants. 

Potted plants are also the perfect way to decorate a small balcony. If you are worried about using up floor space, consider hanging planter boxes for balconies, a beautifully natural way to cover up the railings. Not only do they provide both shade and privacy to the balcony, they also add colour and freshness to the space.

An important part of outdoor décor is outdoor garden furniture. A small balcony can also be made to look beautiful and elegant by adding a few well thought pieces of outdoor furniture. You can also give it a bistro feel by simply adding outdoor chairs in bright colours and pairing it off with a small round coffee table. Made of rattan, artificial wicker or even metal, outdoor furniture adds an unmistakable touch of class. Folding tables and chairs offer the extra convenience of moving the seating around as required. Ottomans and chaise lounges are also great options for outdoor furniture if you are looking for a more eclectic kind of seating arrangement. Simple chairs and tables can be made to look great when accessorized with bright patterned cushions, throws, table runners and rugs, especially when it comes to outdoor décor. You could also add to the eclectic décor by using unusual containers for plants such as tin cans, buckets, old tires and teakettles. You could even consider using an old bicycle decorated with flowers. Now this one will have al your guests in awe.

Whether you have been blessed with a small patio or a large garden, outdoor furniture and plants make for one great combination for a stunning décor. You may as well get used to the many compliments that are sure to come your way.

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