Often times we find ourselves living in a place that doesn’t match our architectural style. While costly renovations are one solution, it’s not one that most of us can afford. The solution? Add a photo! No matter if you prefer Victorian, Mediterranean, Gothic, Midcentury, Neo-Classical, or Tutor style, a picture is a perfect way to bring that look inside. You can take a photo of a building that features designs you like, have it enlarged, and use it as a focal point in your main living area. The picture can be of just the building or, as pictured on the right, a scene that includes the building and it’s surroundings. I’d recommend the former, since by zooming out you can capture additional elements that add style to your space (note the modern architecture of the building and classic brick of the walkway). No matter what style is your favorite, you’ll be sure to impress by bringing unique architecture into your space.
Tag Archives: architecture
Brick and Stone
As someone who loves architecture, I couldn’t help but notice the striking combination of brick and stone on a nearby building. The majority of the building’s façade is made up of bricks laid horizontally, with those above the windows laid vertically. The top portion features a plain stone band, with a second band of carved stone below it. The reason this works is because the building’s brick isn’t your typical red variety. It’s a softer color variation that allows the stone bands to pair well in the overall design. In addition, the carved stone creates a unique architectural element that gives an elegant twist to an otherwise ordinary building. You can create a similar look by adding a border to any room in your home. Borders are an easy way to add interest to a space without investing a lot of time or money. With a little imagination, you can add a special touch to any space!
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.
Ornate Bronze Wall Sconces

I was strolling through my local law library when I looked up and saw these beautiful, intricate wall sconces. The sconces were a unique piece of lighting that stood out in the otherwise plain library. When a space features a unique piece of artistry or architecture, a little bit goes a long way. Need to dress up your plain space? Try a unique lamp, oddly shaped mirror, or an ornate piece of furniture. One piece can make a bold statement, so be sure to choose something that not only stands out beautifully, but is also uniquely you!
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!
Underneath the Bridge
This is a shot of underneath the bridge pictured in my previous post. Since I love architecture, I just had to get a picture as I walked under the bridge! I love seeing the ‘guts’ of a structure and how it’s put together. It’s always interesting to see how such a large structure was constructed. A photo like this would be great to display on a wall along with various shots of the same bridge. You could display pictures that feature the view from above (on top of) the bridge, from below, and on the side. Hanging these together would no only look quite gorgeous, but also allow you to show off you photography skills!