The Arched Passageway

Arched hallwayAs I walked down this passageway, I noticed something unique in its architecture: mismatched archways. I love the combination of different arches in this hallway! It’s very unusual, and the addition of the marble walls and crown molding adds an extra special touch. This a great example of architectural elements that you can bring into your home. While many of us can’t afford to have a similar set of arches installed in our home, there are other ways use this look. You can mix square and round tables in a living room, use multiple styles of furniture, or install lighting in various shapes. Often we feel the need to have every detail in our decorating theme matching. However, adding unexpected details is a great way to make a space your own.

Decorating with Clocks: Part 4

Wall clock_living roomWelcome to my fourth, and final, post on decorating with clocks! For today’s post, I’ll be concentrating on a clock you may have seen in the background of several other posts. Specifically, I’ll be showcasing the wall clock in my living room. We brought this clock back from Europe (I’m an Army brat) and have proudly displayed it from house to house. As seen on the right, the clock is oak with a brass-colored face that features roman numerals. The weights and pendulum, which are not decorative but are used to operate the clock, are also brass in color.

Wall clock face_living roomA close-up of the face, also shown right, shows the details of intricately etched clock face. Unlike the clocks shown in my previous posts, clocks like these are different in that their size and weight limit their location. Despite this, they can be a focal point and conversation piece precisely because they are so different. If you can’t make it to Europe to pick one up, they can be found online, at military bases, and in some antique stores. They come in a variety of finishes that guarantee you’ll find what you’re looking for.

Decorating with Clocks: Part 3

Clock in marble_rotundaIn my third post in this series, I’ll be revisiting a location from a previous post. Specifically, the picture above showcases a clock that was easily lost in an otherwise large space. Upon closer inspection, it appears to be set into the stone itself. This clock is bronze in color and features roman numerals on its face. A close-up of the face (below) shows detailed metal work that reveals a leaf design.

Clock in marble_rotunda close-up

While we often only pay attention to a clock’s face, the surround can often be a beautiful addition. No matter how plain or ordinary a clock may appear, its elegance can often be elevated by the addition of a unique surround. This clock and its location prove that sometimes, it’s the decor that doesn’t stand out, that can make the biggest impact. No matter the proportions, you can create a cohesive look that will bring a touch of elegance into your space!

Decorating with Clocks: Part 2

Plain clock_officeWelcome to my second post on decorating with clocks! This time, I’ll be focusing on a more classic design. Particularly, this is the kind of clock most often seen in offices and public buildings. While it could be described as plain and slightly uninspiring, it still has a function in decorating. This type of clock is great if you’re looking for a clock that will blend into your space and not distract from other decor you already use as a focal point. Every type of clock, even plain ones, can look great in the right space. At the end of the day, a clock’s function is to tell time. As long as the clock does its job, then there’s always a way to successfully integrate it into your decorating scheme. Check back soon for more ideas on decorating with clocks!

Decorating with Clocks: Part 1

Bronze clock_hallwayWhen people think of ways to add something new to their space, they rarely think of clocks. But in this digital age, what better way to stand out than with a genuine old-fashioned clock? There are a myriad of sizes and colors that you can purchase to create a useful and decorative update. With so many options, I’ve decided to focus this post on the clock pictured on the right. It’s a bronze-colored wall clock featuring roman numerals. Its sleek design and classic numbers is a great way to add a bit of interest to your space. While this clock was used in a hallway, you can use this classic design in a main living area or bedroom. Additionally, you can easily personalize a similar clock by painting the roman numerals a different color, or multiple colors, to make them pop. Stay tuned for more ideas on bringing classic pieces into your space!

The Octagon Light

Octagon light_pendantWhen we think of lights we often think of the typical round shape. However, using other shapes can help you create a unique look. An example is the octagonal-shaped pendant light photographed on the right. The light was located in the center of a long hallway. It was the only one of it’s kind, with surrounding lights being plain squares. Adding unusually-shaped light fixtures is a great way to add a bit of style to your space. You can find similar items at big box stores in many different colors and styles. Not confident in your ability to change a light fixture? There are a large variety of plug-and-go lights that can simply be hung from a hook nailed into your ceiling. No matter your skill level, you can find a unique light fixture to adorn your space. Whether you choose an octagon, square, or something wild, you can add a bit of style that will illuminate your space for years to come!

Optical Illusions

Optical illusion building_two to oneSome of the best pictures you can take are ones that create an optical illusion. This can be easily accomplished by changing the angle of your camera, or taking photos in different types of light. The picture to the right is an example of how changing angles can create an optical illusion. Despite how it looks, this is not a picture of a building-it’s actually two buildings. By going around the block and adjusting my camera, I was able to turn two buildings into one! Displaying similar pictures in your space is a great way to use locations you might have already photographed in different ways. Remember, there are a myriad of ways to create optical illusions. All you need is a bit of imagination and adventure to create an original photo that’s uniquely you.

Trees in Bloom

Flowering PoplarAbout two weeks ago I was taking a walk during lunch, when I looked up and saw something unusual. It appeared that a tree had a blooming flower on it! I wasn’t sure what type of tree it was, so I decided to do some investigating. After doing some research, I found out the tree was a Tulip Poplar. Displaying photos of unusual plants is a great way to add interest and color to your space. You could display several smaller pictures on a wall or bookshelf, or use one large photo as a focal point in the room. Next time you’re enjoying the great outdoors, pay attention to unusual plants that may be hiding in plain sight. If you do, you’ll be able to capture a photo of a unique plant that will give you something new to decorate your space with!