For 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!
Decorating with Door Knobs: Part 1
While 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.
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!
Lightly Etched Glass
When 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.
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.
Art on Concrete
When most people take a walk, they tend to look around and survey their surroundings. But how often do you look down? I happened to look down on a recent walk, and was surprise by a work of art. The art (pictured right) was on the concrete near a bus stop. The design features a turtle, along with a wave pattern. I like that this art is discreet, and is only seen by those who happen upon it. Do you have any similar art in your community? If not, try taking a closer look next time you’re out. You’ll be surprised at what’s around you if you take the time to pay attention.
The Well Manicured Path
One day, I decided to travel a bit further than usual on my daily walk. When I did, I discovered this well manicured, meandering path. I love the simple design of this area, and thought it was a great inspiration for an outdoor space. The picture above is a great example of a low-maintenance way to create a great look for any outdoor area. You can border a path or patio with pebbles, and then add bark for a bit of texture. In addition, planting evergreen shrubs or drought resistant succulents is a great way to incorporate a touch of green into the space. Looking for a touch of color without having to water flowers? Use glass floats in your favorite colors throughout your new landscape to add both interest and whimsy. Whether inside or out, you can find great inspiration to create a beautiful space!
The Reception Room Chandeliers
As 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.
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.
The Arched Passageway
As 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
Welcome 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.
A 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
In 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.
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
Welcome 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!
Inspiration In A Photo 