The photo on the right is an abstract piece of art at my local university. It’s affixed to a pair of gates leading to the campus’ church. While I’m not sure what this piece is supposed to represent (I believe it was an interpretation of a bird), it’s still nice to see the whimsy in such pieces of art. While most of us can’t afford a custom piece of art, you can certainly use a photo of one in your own space. Feeling creative? Try making your own abstract art at home! You can use any medium: clay, paper, paint, wood, or glass. No matter how you go about it, you can easily bring abstract art into your space!
Category Archives: interior design
Using the Hues of a Seascape
I’ve often suggested using the various elements of nature when deciding what colors to use in your decorating scheme. A seascape, like the one pictured right, is a great example! Seascapes typically feature a variety of colors, including multiple shades of blue, white, brown, and green. This gives you a myriad of colors to choose from, and combine, to create a cohesive look. Most of us have vacation photos, so why not use them to inspire us? With pictures you already have and a bit of imagination, you can create a beautiful space that brings the colors of nature into your home!
A Sunset at the Ocean
What a view-nothing like a sunset at the beach! Though they take a bit of planning, sunset photos are a must-have for anyone that wants to bring the outdoors into their space. Sunsets provide a myriad of colors that are sure to go with whatever decorating scheme you’re using. The surrounding area-ocean, forest, river, or city-can provide an additional backdrop to your photo. No matter what colors you want to decorate with, a sunset will provide all the inspiration you need.
Jellyfish on the Beach
On the second day of my vacation I decided to visit one of the many state parks along the coast. As I walked along the shore, I noticed a number of things that looked out of place among the usual shells, rocks, and other debris. Moving closer to take a look I found out they were all jellyfish. Not just any jellyfish, they were purple jellyfish! These type aren’t native to the state I was in (I was told they’re usually found in California), so to see these was a real treat. Seeing unusual things is one great aspects of a vacation, and can help you develop all types of decoration ideas. Besides framing and displaying a similar photo, you could buy fabric that features jellyfish and use it to create pillow cases, make a blanket, or reupholster a piece of furniture. As I’ve said before, nature can be a great inspiration for decorating. Whether on land or at sea, you’re sure to find something to inspire you!
The Beach at Dusk
Above is a picture I took on the first day of my vacation. I saw this beautiful, sandy beach and just had to take a picture! I think it’s important to take photos on the first day of your vacation. Why? Because it’s great to start creating memories from day one of your adventure! There are so many things these first photos can be used for. They can be used as the cover for a scrapbook, used in a photo collage, or framed to create a grouping of photos that can be displayed on a shelf or wall. Whether you’re planning to take a vacation or already have a large collection of photos, you can use those early shots as an inspiration for a myriad of decorating ideas!
Lighting All Four Corners
Pictured above is a light fixture from the conference room mentioned in a previous post. I love how it extends out in all four directions! Not only is this chandelier unique, but its design is a great way to illuminate all corners of a room. In addition, the light was installed in a way where the lines of the fixture are aligned with the lines of the ceiling-a great design choice!
The silver finish of the fixture gives it a chic, stream-lined look that doesn’t overwhelm the space. The scallop design around the base of each light (above), gives just the right amount of detail. This light proves that a simple design and great lighting are all you need to bring chic elegance into your space!
The Vault Door
One day I passed something unusual as I was walking down a hallway: a vault door! I discovered that over the years, this building had been used for multiple purposes. At one time, parts of it were used to store historical documents. Based on this, it would make sense that they would need a vault to protect and secure them. Instead of having the contractor remove the door when they remodeled the building, they left it in place-a great example of preserving historical elements. If you have an old door, windows, or other architectural details, trying keeping them intact to showcase the space’s history. Not only will you be preserving history, but will also have a great story to tell your guests!
Happy Birthday to Me!
I recently celebrated my Birthday, and wanted to share a photo of my cake and tell you about the idea it inspired! This year I decided to go with a non-traditional Birthday cake: chocolate with cookies and cream icing and Oreos. We all have favorite foods, and have probably also taken pictures of them at some point. Why not use those photos to decorate your kitchen? Displaying a collection of 4×6 photos on a kitchen wall is a great way to add color and interest to the space. It’s a unique decorating idea that’s not only fun, but can also be used to reflect the season or special holiday of your choice.
When is a Rug not a Rug?
Answer: when it’s a comforter! Ever since I was little, my Mom would use a full/queen size comforter in lieu of a rug in my room. Why? It’s machine washable, economical, easy to replace, and easy to change if you want a different color. In addition, there are more color/pattern options with comforters than with rugs. The comforter I’m currently using as a rug (right), features multi-colored chevrons. It provides multiple pops of color and protects the carpet underneath. Already have an area rug? Throw a comforter over it to not only create a new look for your space, but also provide extra cushion under your feet. It’s a great way to update a bedroom with minimal investment! Another tip: use a comforter that’s two-sided. One side of mine has chevrons, the other is a solid hot pink. This way you’ll have two looks in one, and will always be able to have a bright, stylish bedroom that’s the envy of all your friends!
The Gilded Ceiling
This is a picture of the ceiling in the lobby of a nearby building. I love the gilded, art deco design! There are a myriad of colors and patterns on this ceiling, but the combination works beautifully. There is silver, gold, and bronze used throughout the patterns. Most people would think that all these colors and patterns wouldn’t work. However, this ceiling proves that it can. Not ready to try the same look on your ceiling? Start small by mixing throw pillows, accessories, or art that has different colors and patterns. No matter how bold you decide to go, you’ll have a unique look that’s all you!
Inspiration In A Photo 