I checked out my local wildlife refuge one afternoon and was surprised at what I saw. We arrived at low tide and could see part of the landscape that was usually underwater. It was amazing to see the stark, yet serene, land that was exposed to the sun. You can image all the aquatic wildlife and water fowl that would enjoy this area at high tide. A picture similar to this one would be a great focal point in a den or bedroom. The serene landscape and pop of blue from the sky go with any decor and add a touch of serenity to your space. Want a similar picture for your own space? Check the tide tables for your local waterway, beach, or wildlife refuge. With a camera and a little planning, you can have a picture of a hidden underwater universe.
The Tree’s Hand
It’s amazing all the different ways that a tree can grow! An example is the tree pictured to the right. The way the large branch towards the back splits off looks like a hand reaching out towards the sky. It’s a very quirky image, and is a great inspiration for a decorating theme! Aside from the colors (blue, green, white, and various shades of brown), a similar photo could be used as a base for a quirky decorating scheme. Like the tree, you can use accessories that blend in, more than stand out, within your space. Try a textured vase, throw pillows in various shapes, or an oddly shaped picture frame. Adding quirky elements will give your space a cohesive-look that’s not only colorful, but is also fun.
Birds of a Feather
There’s something that’s incredibly cute about different species hanging out together. Here we have a goose and two different types of ducks preening themselves. The differing colors stand out against each other and the watery background. The clear, rippling water creates a reflection of the surrounding landscape, and gives the shot an almost surreal quality. The earth tones and images are perfect for any decorating scheme or space. Remember, when it comes to mother nature you’re sure to get a great photo that will match any decor!
Where Grasslands Meet Wetlands
As I meandered from one trail to another I was amazed to see how the grasslands and wetlands became intertwined. Where one ended, the other began. There’s usually such a distinction between the two that when I saw the area pictured to the right, I just had to snap a photo! I love the golden hues of the grass in the foreground that’s sparsely populated by a few trees, followed by the reflective blue of the water. Further beyond that you can glimpse a neighboring island and clear, blue sky. A soothing, serene image like this would be great hung in a bedroom! The earth tones would go with any décor, and the beautiful imagery would send you off to sleep to a gorgeous, nature dreamland.
The Towering Tree Stump
This weekend I wanted to get out and enjoy the fresh air, so I decided to go to a park I hadn’t visited before. It had many trails and an abundance of wildlife, but as I meandered down one path I noticed an oddly shaped tree stump to my left. As I walked closer to get a better look, I noticed that this towering tree stump had a large gap in it. It looked like two wooden towers that merged together into one. Awesome! The warm hues of the wood, the green vines encasing the bottom of the trunk, and the pop of blue from the sky make this a great picture to hang on any wall. Despite what you might think, uniquely shaped trees and tree trunks aren’t too hard to find. You can find similar examples in most large parks. So what are you waiting for? With a little work you can snap a gorgeous photo that will brighten your space, and bring a little bit of nature inside!
Bronze Reliefs from Above
I was walking around where I work and decided to stop at the top of a staircase. I look over at one of the massive chandeliers that dot the ceiling and noticed what looked like intricate designs. I turned on my camera, zoomed in, and took a few photos. The first photo shows a shot of the entire chandelier. Beautiful and grand, it complements the marble walls and high ceilings.
The second picture (below) offers a close-up view of the ornate reliefs on the bottom section of the chandelier. It’s similar to what you would find on ancient Roman bronze works of art. To think I could find something just as beautiful without having to fly half-way around the world!
If you were able to find a similar piece of art, I’d suggest taking a close-up shot and framing the picture. It would be a great centerpiece for a dining room or other area that gets a lot of traffic. Not only will the photo look elegant, but the metallic hues will add a warmth and glow to your space in a way that’s timeless.
Cascading Light Through Colored Glass
Despite what many people think, vases can be used for a multitude of purposes. It can be used to hold flowers, be filled with sand and shells to create a beach scene, or filled with live plants to create a mini-garden. There is however an additional use: catching light. Glass and crystal can catch and reflect light in amazing ways! The gold-colored vase pictured at the right was illuminated from above with an LED flashlight in a dark room. The bright light beautifully reflects the patterns in the glass onto the surface. I’d hang a similar photo in a living or dining room. The hues and patterns of the light create a warm, comfy atmosphere. You can easily create a similar photo for use in your own space. Try photographing a vase in similar conditions to what I described above, or snap a photo of a vase illuminated by the sun or a candle. There are so many uses for everyday objects, and with a little imagination you can transform the ordinary into something extraordinary!
The Grand Pendant Light
Near the skylight in my previous post, there were also several pendant lights. As seen on the right, these grand lights feature ornate metal work and etched glass. The light and it’s multitude of motifs complement the ceiling medallions and pops perfectly against the grayish-black marble walls. Pendant lights are a great way to add interest to any space! They come in a large variety of colors, shapes, and sizes that will add sophistication and elegance to your room. While traditionally used in kitchens, these can also be used in dining rooms, bedrooms, or an entryway. By thinking outside the box, you’ll create a beautiful and unique space that provides interest and additional light. No matter where you decide to hang your pendant lights, you’ll end up with a bright and colorful space that’s all you!
The Ornate Skylight
Skylights are a great way to let in some extra sun and brighten up a space. While most are plain glass, some are ornate and full of character. An example of this is the picture above! I saw this skylight at my local state capitol. It was placed away from the main rotunda, so most visitors wouldn’t think to look up. Those who did, however, were rewarded with a gorgeous skylight. Despite the skylights most of us have in our own homes, it is possible to get a similar look. Many home improvement stores sell ornamental window film. They come in various sizes, colors, and patterns that suit all tastes. While marketed for regular windows, you could also apply them to your skylight. You can transform your plain glass into stained glass, a field of flowers, or fine art. No matter how ordinary your skylights, you can create a unique view that is sure to amaze your guests.
Red and Gold Ceiling Medallions
As tends to happen in life, I was walking through a building I had visited many times before when I decided to look up at the ceiling. What did I see? A large arch featuring red and gold ceiling medallions. The colors are very regal and medallions themselves are a classic piece of architecture, so I thought they’d be the perfect addition to my blog. Not only do the colors pop, but it would be a great addition to any space. There are two types of ways you can get this look. One, you can buy a few ceiling medallions from your local home improvement store, paint them using the desired colors, and affix them to your wall, ceiling, or archway. The second, more practical and economic way, is to use a similar photo. You can take a similar picture at most historic or old government buildings. Once you have the picture, print off several copies, frame them, and hang on your chosen wall in whatever pattern you desire. This will create a great focal point that will draw people into the room. No matter what choice you decide on, you’ll be able to add a touch of classic elegance to any space!
Inspiration In A Photo 