As I walked through the lobby of my building, I notice a discreetly carved floral motif on the marble walls. I love how this type of decoration adds to, rather than takes away from, the beautiful marble. Three brass strips above and below the carving add interest. This is a great example of using detailed motifs that blend in with a room’s decor. Use different patterns, motifs, or accessories to create interest in your space, but keep it in the same color family to have a cohesive look. No matter what type of material you use, you can create an amazing look that won’t over power your space.
Monthly Archives: April 2015
Combine and Conquer
Earlier this week I received two lovely bouquets from people I work with (it was Administrative Assistants Day). They were two different varieties of flowers, but I thought they would look awesome together. I combined a bouquet of pink roses and several bunches of lilacs into a vase and viola: instant glamour! I love how the lilacs provide additional visual interest between the vase and the roses by filling the space between them. These flowers provide a great pop of color to my desk, brightening up an otherwise plain space. There’s nothing like being able to lean over and take a whiff of fresh flowers! Adding flowers to your desk or office is a great way to add color and interest to your space. No matter what type of flowers you choose, you can have a space that brings spring inside for you to enjoy!
The Blazing Cloud
It’s amazing the things you see at sunset. The clouds and sky become an array of colors. The photo on the right is an example of a cloud that’s illuminated by the setting sun. This is one of a group of clouds that was blazing across the evening sky. I love how the bottom of the cloud looks like it’s filled with fire, while the top is dark, preparing for nightfall. This contrast highlights how different colors can go so well together. If you want to create a similar contrast in your own space, there are several different combinations you can try: gold and grey, navy and bright green, grey and pink, or the classic black and white. Using contrasting colors allows you to have the best of both worlds: a pop of color and a neutral to balance it out. No matter what color combination you choose, you’ll have a perfectly paired space that’s all you!
Pink Kwanzans
While I enjoy cherry blossoms, they only bloom for about two weeks and then they’re gone. Kwanzan cherry trees, however, keep blooming long after other cherry blossoms have fallen. Pictured above is a shot of the blooming cherry trees where I work. It’s wonderful to still be able to see pretty pink blossoms swaying in the wind! Additionally, it demonstrates the great combination of pink and green. You could use a similar photo as a focal point on a wall, or decorate your space with pink and green accessories. No matter what you choose, always remember that nature can provided the greatest inspiration for any space!
Note: I previously misclassified these trees as Magnolias; they are in fact Kwanzan cherry trees. The title of this post has been changed from Pink Magnolias to Pink Kwanzans.
Sunny Flowers on a Cloudy Day
The other day I was reminded that even on a cloudy day, nature can still provide a bit of sunshine. As I exited the building where I work, I saw these beautiful daffodils flanking the entrance. Since I had my camera on me, I decided to snap a photo. It was a great reminder of nicer weather, and the flower itself is quite a cheery color. No matter how bad the weather there’s always some part of nature that will remind us of sunshine. Just like in life, we should always try to find the sunny side when our world is full of clouds.
The Library Lanterns
While in the main foyer leading to the law library, I looked up and noticed several large, metal lanterns hanging from the ceiling. Making my way up to the second floor, I was able to get a great shot of one. I love all the different types of designs featured on the lantern! From Greek key, to scrolls, to foliage, this lantern manages to combine many different patterns into a seamless look. This lamp is an excellent example of how mixing patterns can work in any space. The key is to keep the patterns in the same color family, while also keeping the number of different patterns to a minimum. By doing this you can have that mixed-pattern look without it overwhelming your space. So what are you waiting for? Whether you use accent pillows, a throw, curtains, or bedding, you can master the mixed-pattern look in no time!
The Ornate Wooden Library Doors
In my previous post, I showed you a picture of wood covered windows in my local law library. To the right, is a picture of the doors below each window. As you can see, the doors are made of the same intricately carved pattern that adorns the wood embellished glass above it. It adds even more elegance to an otherwise simple library. Just like in my previous post, you can also bring this look into your space. There are DIY kits that you can buy to add embellishments and raised patterns to your furniture and doors. You can use these to create a similar look for your own doors. Remember, no matter how grand a design may seem, there’s always a way to scale it down and make it work for any space.
Wood Embellished Glass
In the law library featured in my previous posts, there are large glass panes separating one side of the library from the main hall. I love the look of these intricately carved, elegant windows! While most of us don’t own the type of home where this look is feasible, there’s still a way to bring the look into your home. After you’ve found a building with a similar architectural look, take a photo and enlarge it to mural size. Apply the photo to a wall and viola-instant elegance! Remember, even the most ornate and expensive-looking features can be applied to any space. With a little imagination, you can give a cottage the grandeur of a castle.
Ornate Bronze Wall Sconces
I was strolling through my local law library when I looked up and saw these beautiful, intricate wall sconces. The sconces were a unique piece of lighting that stood out in the otherwise plain library. When a space features a unique piece of artistry or architecture, a little bit goes a long way. Need to dress up your plain space? Try a unique lamp, oddly shaped mirror, or an ornate piece of furniture. One piece can make a bold statement, so be sure to choose something that not only stands out beautifully, but is also uniquely you!
Bunches of Creamy Cherry Blossoms
Even though the weather has currently taken a turn for the worst, I’ll always have beautiful, inspiring photos to look at! On the right you’ll see a picture of the creamy cherry blossom tree I used in a previous post. It’s great to be able to look back and enjoy nature’s beauty on rainy days. These types of photos are a great way to not only bring a bit of nature into your space, but also a way to remind you of brighter days ahead!
Inspiration In A Photo 