One day I saw these two ducks preening by the riverbank. At first I couldn’t get a good shot, but I was eventually able to get the picture featured in this post. The ducks are framed on either side by trees and below by grass. You can even see the ripples of the water. This is not only a great picture, but the colors are a great inspiration for Spring decorating ideas. I love the earthy tones of the flora and the colors of both ducks’ feathers. Looking for new colors to decorate your space? All you need to do is look at nature for inspiration!
Category Archives: design
Old Buildings: Concrete
The building pictured is in the same vicinity as the brick one pictured in my last post. This particular area has multiple abandoned buildings attached together. Due to this, it’s an awesome place to take photographs. These buildings are located in a small historic district with other preserved buildings (though some of the buildings are closed for safety reasons). Many cities and towns have areas with historic buildings, so check your local area. Whether you snag a picture of a brick, stucco, art deco, or mid-century building, all that matters is that you enjoy the look. So what are you waiting for?
Old Buildings: Brick
Often times you’ll be driving around and notice an interesting building. Sometimes these buildings are new, old, or abandoned. The one pictured is an abandoned building near one of my local historic districts. The building itself is on the other side of a river, but I was able to get a good shot. I love all types of architecture, and decided this would make an awesome photograph. While you could frame this picture, one could easily make a collection of building photos and create a scrapbook. The book would not only give you something to display on your table, but also allow you to show all your friend your awesome photo skills!
Old Sea Buoys
Recently I was walking along my local waterfront and what did I see? An old rusted buoy! It was obvious the buoy had been beached for a long time, but I still thought it would make a great photo. It would be the perfect addition to any beach/water theme. Later I saw another rusted buoy (second picture), and decided to take another picture. Taking several pictures around a common theme, like buoys, and displaying the photos in your space is a great idea. The photos would be great on a shelf, art nook, or table. Have something you like to photography? If so, take photos at different locations, group them together, and enjoy!
Marina Views
Aside from the ocean, I think marinas make a great photo-op. This photo was taken on a sunny day in an area that featured a lookout tower (which afforded me this great view). This is the type of photo I’d frame and keep on my desk to remind me of a fun getaway (literally if I had a boat!). Have a favorite body of water? If so, go to your favorite coastal spot, marina, lake, or waterway and create your own day-dream in a photo.
Grand Chandeliers
When I saw this chandelier in one of my local libraries I thought, “wow!” I love the detail of the ironwork and all of the bright bulbs. This is the type of photo I’d use in a dining room or some other formal setting. If you have several pictures of chandeliers, frame them and create a motif on your wall. Alternatively, you could use the wide shot (pictured), then zoom in on the various details in the ironwork and frame those, too. Remember, there are many ways to dress up your walls-the key is to use your imagination.
Light Up Your Garden
Gardens in themselves are wonderful places: flowers, shrubs, trees, etc. Why not add lighting to the mix? An example is this outdoor lamp I found while out on a stroll. Obviously, most of us can’t afford a lamp this big or ornate in our gardens. The solution? Find a mirrored globe and elevate it on a decorative column. You can also use a lamp-like sculpture or other object (the ‘lamp’ doesn’t need to actually work-it’s the overall visual that counts). Though it’s not quite spring, it’s the perfect time to start planning out your garden!
Doors as Art: Sea
Many decorative doors have themes. This one features an old-fashioned sailing ship cruising through the water. A photo of this door would be a great addition to a den or office. Love the nautical look? Use a similar photo in your decorating theme. If the color isn’t right for your decor, try taking the picture or printing it in black and white. With little tweaks to suit your personal tastes, you can create a look that’s perfect for you and your space!
Etched Glass Lighting
When I saw this beautiful etched glass pendant light I thought it was a great way to add sophistication to what would normally be plain glass. As to not overwhelm the space, only every other light contained an etched image. While this look may seem complicated and expensive, it can be far from it if you know where to look. A plain glass light fixture can either be found in your home, or purchased from a local big box or hardware store. Once you have the fixture, you can pick up a glass etching kit at your local craft store (read the back to make sure the kit is heat safe). Now that you’ve got your supplies, it’s time to create! Did you create a look that’s whimsical, classic, fun, or unique? No matter the design, the look should reflect the feel of the space and your personal tastes.
Give Your Cubicle A Window
Do you, like me, currently work in a cubicle? If so, you know what’s it’s like to not have a real window. My solution? Create your own! I used color paper to create grass, trees, a bush, sun, and clouds in my cubicle window. Not only did this allow me to be creative, but also gives me something nice to look at-plus I’ve already received several compliments on my work. Have a faux window in your cubicle? Try creating your own window this week. You’ll be surprise how much you, and others, will enjoy it.
Inspiration In A Photo 