Category Archives: interior design

Aug 7

Capping off a Column

Corinthian column capitalWhile many think of columns as purely functional, they can also be quite decorative and unique. An example is the picture above that shows the ornate capital (top portion) of a column. This style capital is a well-known feature of Corinthian columns, which are ornately carved and feature various types of designs.

Corinthian column capital_close-up

While most of us don’t live in homes or buildings with such architectural grandeur, there are ways to bring this look into your space. If you have small decorative columns in your home, there are DIY kits available at home improvement stores that will allow you to add a capital to an already existing column. These kits are made from various types of materials, and can be purchased finished (painted) or unfinished. If you’re like me and don’t have columns in your home, you can take a similar photo, enlarge it, and hang it prominently on a wall. Either way you choose, you can bring classic architecture into any space!

Aug 4

Illuminating a Stairwell with Sconces

Stairwell with sconceWhen it comes to stairwells, lighting is usually a second thought. If there is lighting, it usually consists of a basic design that’s more necessity than stylish. However, I occasionally come across stylish pieces where one would normally expect something drab. The stairwell pictured above is a perfect example! A sconce is so unexpected in a stairwell, and this one is perfectly positioned to capture your attention as you’re going up or down the stairs.

Stairwell sconce_close-up

In the close-up of the sconce (above) you can see the pink, marble-like glass and a lattice design at the top. These unique and unexpected touches are the perfect addition to the marble stairs. Despite what you might be thinking, you can easily add a similar look to your own space. While installing a sconce can be quite daunting, many big box stores offer sconces that you can simply hang on a wall and plug in. No matter your level of skill, you can easily get this look, and add a unique touch to your space!

Jul 31

Decorating with Door Knobs: Part 3

Door knob with state sealFor my third post in this series, I’ll be showcasing a very unique door knob. It’s antique hardware that features an uppercase ‘W’ at either end, along with a portrait of George Washington on the door’s knob. The color of the hardware is a perfect match with the stain of the door’s wood.

Door knob with state seal_close-up

As seen in the close-up (above), the knob is actually a replica of the official Washington State seal. Though you’ll likely not find something exactly like this for your home, there are ways to use antique hardware to give your space a special touch. You could keep your door’s basic hardware and only replace the door knob itself with an antique. You can usually find these knobs at antique/vintage shops or second-hand stores. This strategy allows for a great pairing of new and old hardware. I hope you’ve enjoyed my series on door knobs, and were able to find great inspiration for your space!

Jul 28

Decorating with Door Knobs: Part 2

Law library door handle_interiorFor today’s post, I’ll be concentrating on a door located in the same building as my previous post. You can see how the design of the interior door’s hardware (right) is similar to that of the exterior door. This is a great example of how you can have similar, but not matching, hardware throughout your space to create a cohesive look. Since many brands have lines of similar-looking hardware that come in various sizes, textures, and knob types, you can easily accomplish this look in your own space. No matter what style you choose, you can create a cohesive look that will update your space, inside and out!

Jul 26

Decorating with Door Knobs: Part 1

Law library door handlesWhile it’s not uncommon for people to update various elements of their space, a room’s door is usually ignored. Although most think the only way to make a substantial update to a door is to paint it, there’s a quicker, less messy option: install new door hardware! Adding updated hardware can modernize even the oldest door, and can also give the door any look you want (vintage, retro, Victorian, antique, etc.). In the next several posts I’ll be showing examples of hardware that you can use in your own space. First up are the door handles leading into my local law library. As seen above, this is a double-door entry that features door handles instead of knobs. Given the size of the doors and their location in an old, historic building, this hardware is the perfect pairing with its surroundings.

Law library door handle_close-up

The close-up photo (above) shows the intricate patterns around the perimeter of the hardware, as well as various detailing at the top and bottom. Want the same look in your own space? Similar hardware can be found at online retailers, as well as big box hardware stores. Whether you choose a style with knobs or handles, you can easily update your space and add new life to an old door!

Jul 23

Lightly Etched Glass

Lightly etched fixtureWhen you walk under lights you tend to notice only the shape and overall design. However, when I saw this light, it appeared to feature etched glass. The etching was so faint I could barely see it, but on closer inspection I was able to see a design and pattern on the glass. As seen below, the light features various patterns and designs that complement the fixture’s shape and its scalloped, copper-colored base.

Lightly etched fixture_close up

Using glass that is lightly etched is a great way to add style without taking away from the other features in the room. If installing a new light fixture in your ceiling is a bit daunting, try using lamps in various sizes and shapes to get a similar look. No matter what type of fixture you use, you’ll have a light that not only brightens your space, but also provides a unique accent to any room.

Jul 1

The Reception Room Chandeliers

Reception Room ChandelierAs I walked around my state capitol building, I came across the grand State Reception Room. This room is rarely used, even in an official capacity, and access to the public is generally prohibited. However, because an entire wall of the room is floor to ceiling windows, I was able to take some great pictures! Specifically, I was able to capture the room’s Tiffany chandeliers. The room features two of these large chandeliers, and their size and elegance is befitting a room of this grandeur.

Reception Room Chandelier_beads

The chandeliers feature Czechoslovakian glass beads (above), along with intricately crafted metal accents. While most of us don’t have the type of home that features a large reception room, you can always bring a similar feel into any size space. Chandeliers come in a variety of sizes and finishes, guaranteeing you’ll find the perfect fit. From large crystal chandeliers, to smaller ones in bedrooms, or even chandelier lamps found in big box stores, everyone can find the perfect chandelier that will turn any space into something grand.

Jun 26

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.

Jun 8

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!

May 30

Symmetrical Spaces

Symmetrical marble rotundaThe picture above is an example of a symmetrical space. While the space pictured is large, it can serve as a great inspiration for your own home. Adding symmetry is a great way to add a classic design element to your space. One place to start is in a bedroom. Center your bed on a wall and add matching tables or night stands on either side of the bed. You can also adorn each table with a lamp, or put up a line of pictures above the bed (I’d suggest an even number of pictures), to create this look. Not looking to re-do an entire room? Start small by using a shelf or dresser. You can use books, accessories, matching picture frames, or a variety of other items to create a symmetrical look. Remember, even the largest of designs can be scaled down to fit any space. All you need is a bit of inspiration and imagination to create a great look!