Tom Dixon’s IKEA Line is the Sleekest, Most Contemporary Collection Yet

British designer Tom Dixon is well known for his iconic S Chair and the interior of the stunning Mondrian Hotel in London. The Queen even formally appointed him to the Order of the British Empire (OBE). And, now, you can get his iconic pieces for a few hundred dollars or less at IKEA.

Tom Dixon IKEA

The new Tom Dixon IKEA DELAKTIG collection offers accessories that make it possible to customize the furniture pieces. All images courtesy of IKEA.

Dixon’s DELAKTIG collection consists of upholstered seating and a bed featuring a frame made of 50 percent recycled aluminum. You can customize the small selection of pieces by adding from the selection of accessories.

IKEA Creative Leader James Futcher says, “We called it an open platform for living, and Tom kept referring to it as a bed so, of course, we couldn’t stop after the first DELAKTIG launch. The bed is a key piece of furniture in any home — I mean, everyone needs a good night’s sleep. So we decided to go for a second launch: a bed frame that is designed to be personalized.”

tom dixon ikea

Put two sofa bases together with a side table and lamp for a deeply relaxing lounge that can double as a guest bed.

Tom Dixon IKEA modular furniture

Accessories like additional arms, side tables or removable fabric covers give your pieces a personalized look.

Here’s a look at the Tom Dixon IKEA pieces you can mix and match:

tom dixon IKEA sofas

The 88″ sofa is shown here as a traditional 2-arm sofa, $770.

new ikea tom dixon furniture line

If you want to change up the traditional look of the sofa above you can move the backs and arms around. Get the modular sofa, including an attachable lamp, $854.

new ikea tom dixon furniture line
new ikea tom dixon furniture line
new ikea tom dixon furniture line
new ikea tom dixon furniture line
new ikea tom dixon furniture line
new ikea tom dixon furniture line

tom dixon for IKEA

Customize the platform bed by adding and removing side tables and a headboard.

tom dixon for IKEA
tom dixon for IKEA
tom dixon for IKEA
tom dixon for IKEA
tom dixon for IKEA
tom dixon for IKEA

For more info, check out the rest of the collection here.

The post Tom Dixon’s IKEA Line is the Sleekest, Most Contemporary Collection Yet appeared first on Freshome.com.

Bad Bedroom Cleaning Habits to Put to Bed

bad bedroom cleaning habits

Keep your bedroom ready for R&R by putting these bad bedroom cleaning habits to bed. Image: Cornish Interiors

Your bedroom is your sanctuary. It’s where you go to rest and get rejuvenated. It’s where you dream, plan and — if you’re like us — do a lot of your Netflix binging. This is a restorative space. At least, that’s the idea. But after you’ve cleaned all the other parts of your house that guests will actually see, keeping your bedroom tidy can feel like a low priority. That’s a problem, though. Bad bedroom cleaning habits can impact your mood and your sleep.

If you want to get better rest, feel more rejuvenated at the start of your day and enjoy those movie marathons in bed guilt-free, keeping your room clean is key. And we’re here to help. We’ve already talked about how to up your cleaning game in the bathroom and kitchen, but let’s not leave our sanctuaries shabby. Ditch these five bad bedroom cleaning habits to enjoy a better bedtime.

bad bedroom cleaning habits - bed

A platform bed that is flush with the floor can ensure the space under it stays clean. Image: Hsu McCullough

Ignoring the monsters under your bed

Let’s get one of the worst bad bedroom cleaning habits out of the way. Cleaning under your bed is a huge hassle, but it’s a whole lot better than sleeping over a huge pile of dust bunnies (hello, allergies!). First, pull every item out from under your bed. If you’re using that space to store stuff you never use, it might be time to part with it. Running the broom or vacuum under the bed is a whole lot simpler when you don’t have to navigate a pile of junk.

If you want a hack to make this chore a breeze, start with a bed skirt. It’s also known as a dust ruffle for good reason. This protective barrier doesn’t just make your bed cuter, it also minimizes the dirt and debris that accumulates underneath. Or, if you want to check off this to-do permanently, get a platform bed with solid edges that connect your mattress directly to the floor. You get bonus points if it has built-in storage.

Making/not making your bed

Mom was right. Making your bed every morning is actually pretty important, it turns out. Not only does it instantly make your room look cleaner, it can actually support your overall productivity and mental health. And, for real, it takes all of two minutes, so why not try it for a few weeks and see if you notice a difference?

If your bed is covered in a mountain of decorative pillows and throws, consider streamlining the design. While these fun accents can add flair to your space, they might be best used in a guest bedroom. If they’re keeping you from wanting to make your bed every day, they’re actually hurting the overall design of your space.

Now, all this said, don’t pop out of bed and make it first thing. Leave your sheets pulled back while you brush your teeth and make your coffee. This gives your bedding a chance to breathe and ensures you’re not trapping sweat and dust mites inside your sheets. And, on that topic, don’t forget to wash your sheets on a regular basis.

bad bedroom cleaning habits - the chair

Leave the chairs in your room for sitting. Image: Coats Homes

Using “the chair”

Ah, the chair. It’s pretty much iconic. If TV is any indicator, every teen girl’s bedroom has this glorified closet replacement in one corner. But don’t fall prey! A chair is not a wardrobe and worn clothes shouldn’t be left there. It’s not a closet. It’s not a viable clothes storage option. Don’t let the chair stand between you and your best, most organized self.

If you’re a user of the chair, take some steps to break the habit. First, clean out your closet. (If you’re having trouble letting go of stuff, the KonMari method could help.) It’s a whole lot easier to hang an item back up if you’re not having to use several shoves to squish it back into place. More space for clothes storage makes organization easier.

Then, do something else with the chair. Set it up with pillows and a cozy throw for a reading nook. Put a potted plant on it for a couple weeks while you break the habit. Do whatever you need to do to force yourself to either put things away or put them in the hamper after you wear them. Once you break the habit, you’ll be surprised how easy it is to keep your room tidy.

Cleaning while you wash sheets

If this article is motivating you to do a big bedroom clean, kudos! But don’t start by stripping your bed. If you’re going to be dusting, leave your bedding on. Otherwise, you knock all that dust and debris onto your bare mattress, then cover over it when you put clean sheets back on your bed. And while you’ll probably never notice the difference, it’s not doing your bedroom hygiene any favors.

bad bedroom cleaning habits - pillows

Don’t forget to clean under the sheets. Leaving your mattress as-is is one of the most common bad bedroom cleaning habits. Image: Thorp Design

Ignoring your mattress and pillows

Speaking of bedroom hygiene, let’s talk about the stuff that’s a little harder to throw into the washing machine. Your pillows and mattress are sort of protected by your sheets, but not entirely. They need to be cleaned and sanitized everyone once in a while, too.

And, good news, you actually can throw pillows in the washing machine, so that’s a pretty simple task. Add a few tennis balls into the dryer for extra fluffiness, and you’ll be glad you tackled this to-do.

The mattress, while daunting, is actually pretty simple to clean, too. It’s as easy as vacuuming your mattress, spot treating any stains, sprinkling it with baking soda to deodorize it, then vacuuming again! Ideally, leave the baking soda for 24 hours so it can do its best work.

Do you have any bad bedroom cleaning habits you’re ready to put to bed? Is this guide helpful? Tell us how you keep your room ready for relaxation in the comments below.

The post Bad Bedroom Cleaning Habits to Put to Bed appeared first on Freshome.com.

Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite: Separating Fact from Fiction

Orkin recently released its list of the cities with the most bed bugs. (The list is based on the cities in which the company performed the most residential and commercial bed bug treatments.) The top 10 cities, in order, are Baltimore, Washington DC, Chicago, Los Angeles, Columbus OH, Cincinnati, Detroit, New York, San Francisco/Oakland/San Jose and Dallas/Fort Worth.

There are a lot of misconceptions regarding these bugs. Whether you live in one of these cities or not, here’s what you need to know to keep these pests out of your bed.

Myth #1: Bed bugs can fly

Bed bugs anywhere

Bed bugs can be anywhere, but can’t fly. Image: Astronaut Image/Getty Images

Fortunately, they cannot fly. “Bed bugs cannot fly because they do not have wings,” according to Sydney Crawley, Ph.D. public health entomologist at  Scotts Miracle-Gro. “Instead, they crawl, traveling one meter per minute on average,” Crawley tells Freshome, adding that they also cannot jump.

Myth #2: They only bite at night

Bed bugs adjust

Bed bugs will adjust to your schedule. Image: LEK_3DPHOTO/Getty Images

Bed bug activity tends to peak at night, but Crawley says they can bite at any time during the day. “This is especially true if the primary host is active during the night and sessile during the day.” In fact, Crawley says these bugs will adapt to the habits of the host. “Motivation to take a blood meal may drive them to bite at any time.”

Myth #3: They are too small to see

Bed bugs are tiny

Bed bugs are tiny, but not invisible. Image: Anna Cor/Zumbansen/EyeEm/Getty Images

Bed bugs are indeed visible. “Although bed bug eggs and first instars (newly hatched bed bugs) are very small, they are still large enough to see with the naked eye,” Crawley says. “After the first instar, juvenile bed bugs will molt 4 more times before reaching the adult life stage. First to fifth instars range anywhere from 1.3 mm to 4-5 mm and adults range from approximately 4-7 mm in size.”

Myth #4: They prefer unsanitary conditions

Bed bugs clean tidy

These pests don’t care if you’re clean and tidy. Image: Gabriela Tulian/Getty Images

It’s possible to have bed bugs even if your home is spotless because these insects don’t discriminate, according to Crawley. “Bed bugs prefer small cracks and crevices which are found in every home,” Crawley says. “Populations of bed bugs will continue to grow in homes where proper elimination strategies are not performed, regardless of the level of cleanliness.” Granted, you still need to clean your house, especially the nine nastiest areas of the home.

 Myth #5: They only inhabit beds frames and couches

Bed bugs suitcase

These little bugs also like the inside of your suitcase. Image: LOOK Photography/Getty Images

While they like bed frames and couches, according to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), bed bugs can be found in stuffed animals, suitcases, wheelchairs, purses and on the inside of bedside lamps.

Myth #6: They are usually found in hotels and apartments

Bed bugs hospital

Hospitals are sanitary, but not immune to bed bugs. Image: Ariel Skelley/Getty Images

These may be the two places that get the most media coverage, but they’re not the only place you’ll find these pests. According to the NPMA, the 3 most common places where they are found include single-family homes (91%), apartments/condominiums (89%), and hotels/motels (68%).

But guess where else they show up? Nursing homes (59%), schools and daycare centers (47%), offices (46%), college dorms (45%), hospitals (36%) and public transportation (19 %).

Myth #7: If you don’t see them, you must not have them

Bed bugs mark

They can leave their mark – sometimes on you. Image: Vlajs/Getty Images

You may not always see the bugs themselves, but you can see what they leave behind, and you can also feel them. For example, they tend to leave fecal spots on your mattress, walls, and upholstery (ranging in color from red to reddish brown).  You may also see empty eggshells. Another sign is the presence of bite marks on your arms, legs and other parts of your body. In addition, if there are a lot of bugs, you may start to detect a sweet smell.

Tips for avoiding bed bugs

Bed bugs vigilant

Be vigilant again bed bugs. Image: ben-bryant

“At home, inspect furniture, especially mattresses, box springs and bed frames,” Crawley says. She warns people to be very careful when purchasing secondhand furniture. “Before bringing any used furniture into your home, inspect it thoroughly to ensure that no bed bugs are present.”

When you’re traveling, be advised that these pesky bugs like to travel for free – in your suitcase. Search your hotel room carefully, inspecting the mattress seams, sofas, chairs, and behind the headboard. If you find bed bugs, the NPMA recommends changing rooms to another area since rooms next to, above or below might also be infected.

Bed bugs dont bring home

Don’t bring them home with you. Image: Nikada/Getty Images

“Search all bags, luggage and clothing thoroughly before you return, and take special care to inspect the seams, as they are a common hiding place for bed bugs,” Crawley says. “When you return home, put clothing and bags in the dryer on high heat for a minimum of two full cycles on high heat to ensure that all potential bed bugs and eggs have been killed.”

Whether you’re at home or traveling, she also recommends a product like the Ortho Home Defense Bed Bug Trap. “These detectors can determine whether there are bed bugs present – within an hour.”

Do you have any additional tips for preventing these bugs from getting into your bed? Let us know in the comments.

The post Don’t Let the Bed Bugs Bite: Separating Fact from Fiction appeared first on Freshome.com.

Trending Now: Rattan Furniture

We hope you like the products we recommend. Just so you are aware, Freshome may collect a share of sales from the links on this page. 

Rattan isn’t just for outdoor furniture anymore. You might associate this material with your grandma’s house, but rattan furniture is having a moment. And we’re here for it. It’s versatile, durable and can take just about any room to the next level.

Before we dive deeper, let’s get clear on rattan. It’s not the same as wicker. Wicker is a type of weave, whereas rattan refers to the actual material itself, a flexible, fibrous plant. We’ve long used its pliable stems to make furniture because it’s both lightweight and durable. Today, not all rattan-style furniture uses actual rattan – but we’ll forgive it because the whole point of synthetic rattan is to protect the natural environment in which rattan grows.

If you’ve been looking for furniture that packs a punch aesthetically but doesn’t add a ton of visual weight to your space, rattan is for you. Let’s look at some of the various ways you can use rattan furniture to set the tone of a room.

Rattan furniture in the bedroom

Like we said, rattan is versatile. That’s why you can use it just about anywhere in a bedroom, from the headboard to the accent chair to the table. Here are some different ways you can incorporate this material in any bedroom in your home.

rattan furniture - bed 1

In a tropical bedroom, the Curved Rattan Bed is a no-brainer. Image: Anthropologie

rattan furniture - bed 5

If you want to add an eclectic feel to your bedroom, the Kubu Rattan Woven Headboard can deliver. Image: Pier1

rattan furniture - bed 2

The comfy Pari Rattan Daybed creates a cozy – but still airy – lounging area in this bedroom. Image: Anthropologie

rattan furniture - bed 3

Make it extra fun to get ready with the Ria Leaning Rattan Mirror, which includes a place to hang extra outfit options. Image: Urban Outfitters

rattan furniture - bed 4

Pair your leaning mirror with the matching bed. With a low profile, the Ria Rattan Bed invites you to lounge. Image: Urban Outfitters

Rattan furniture in the living room

Maybe you’re the type of person who has a set style you follow in your living space. Or maybe you’re the kind of person who pulls from various influences, from traditional to mid-century to eclectic. Either way, rattan can serve you. Because of its vintage roots and natural feel, it works in a wide variety of living spaces. Check it out.

rattan furniture - living 4

Rattan doesn’t just work for boho spaces. It can be ideal when you’re looking for a modern edge, as exemplified by the Tiered Rattan Pendant. Image: Anthropologie

rattan furniture - living 2

The inviting Noelie Rattan Lounge Chair offers welcoming seating when you invite guests over. Image: CB2

rattan furniture - living 1

If you’re looking for a statement piece for your living room, look no further than the Natural Rattan Fallon Cocoon Chair. Image: Cost Plus World Market

rattan furniture - living 3

Rattan is more versatile than you might think. It gives the Reflect Rattan Credenza texture and warmth. Image: CB2

rattan furniture - living 5

If you’re looking to add seating without adding visual weight, an airy rattan piece – like the Pari Rattan Chair – is a perfect fit. Image: Anthropologie

Rattan furniture in the dining room

The dining room is an interesting space to design. You want it to feel both structured and comfortable. It’s a place where you might serve an elegant, multi-course extravaganza or enjoy a cozier meal like spaghetti. Rattan works in either setting – and everywhere in between. Its carefully woven, sculpted feel is elegant but its natural fibers can help add a sense of casualness. When you want your dining room to make a striking statement without feeling stuffy, this material can deliver. Here are a few examples of it doing exactly that.

rattan furniture - dining 5

The Maluku Natural Rattan Dining Chairs give a dining room table extra texture. Image: Crate & Barrel

rattan furniture - dining 3

Make it easier to entertain at your next dinner party with a compact and mobile bar set up on the Kali Bar Cart. Image: Pottery Barn

rattan furniture - dining 2

Traditional rattan meets modern design in the Haylee Mono Rattan Chair. Image: Urban Outfitters

rattan furniture - dining 4

Rattan can help you bring the outdoors in. These Cinta Wicker Dining Chairs add an earthy feel to an already eclectic dining space. Image: Pier1

rattan furniture - dining 1

Rattan doesn’t have to be in your face. In the Marte Dining Chair, it’s a subtle element. Image: Urban Outfitters

What do you think of rattan furniture? Would you add it to your house? If so, what room would you choose? We’d love to hear in the comments!

The post Trending Now: Rattan Furniture appeared first on Freshome.com.

10 Bedside Pendant Lights That Will Rock Your Bedroom

Bedside pendant lights

Gorgeous bedside pendant lights transform the Houchins Upholstered Storage Platform Bed in a contemporary bedroom. Courtesy of  Wayfair

Bedside pendant lights are the ultimate bedroom multi-tasker. They provide light from above for reading and relaxing, but also remove the need for table lamps. We love the idea of creating more space on our nightstands — this is also the perfect opportunity to style your nightstand.

Installing a pendant or swag light over a nightstand is not a new idea. This was a popular style in the 1960s, especially with kitschy chains draped from the ceiling. Today’s bedside pendants are more refined and are available in all decorating styles.

Here’s Why Bedroom Pendants Are So Hot Right Now

  • Minimalism Rules – Our need for simplified spaces is still strong. Eliminating the need for a table lamp creates a clean look.
  • They Transcend Style – Bedside pendants are now available in every decorating style.
  • Renters Love Them – Pendants are available as plug-ins, too. If you’re able to attach a hook in the ceiling, you can add a swag light to your bedroom without any wiring.
  • They’re just beautiful – Installing a pendant light next to your bed is an instant design update that’s more than just adding a light to your bedside. It’s a strong style statement.

Once you’ve decided what type of bedside pendant light you’ll need in your bedroom and the size requirements, it’s time to have fun choosing a style. Don’t be afraid to venture out of your style comfort zone if you see a light you love. With the right accessories, any pendant or swag can work with your bedroom decor. Here are the bedside pendants we’re loving right now:

Geometric Beauty for Your Nightstand

Contemporary bedside pendant

The bronze finish of the Alrai Wire 1-Light Geometric Pendant is perfect for mixed-metal bedroom decor. Courtesy of  Wayfair

Clean lines and geometric shapes are on-trend right now. Airy light fixtures are wonderful when you want to keep things light. The latest geometric shapes are versatile and work with contemporary, rustic and mid-century modern bedroom decor.

Banded Gold Contemporary Globe Pendant

Gold bedroom pendant

A band of gold turns the  West Elm’s Banded Glass Pendant into something special. Courtesy of  West Elm

Look for special style details if you’re shopping for a focal point pendant. If your pendants will be the center of attention for your bedroom decor, it’s okay to be a little more extravagant with your choice.

Versatile Contemporary Bedside Pendant

Globe pendant light

A simple contemporary pendant light like the Cayden 1-Light Globe Pendant works best in a supporting role for your bedroom decor. Courtesy of  Wayfair

Contemporary pendant lights are so easy to add to any bedroom because of their simple lines and shapes. Complete your contemporary bedroom decor with a platform bed, floating nightstands and monochromatic bedding.

The Glamorous Crystal Pendant

Crystal Bedroom Pendant

Glam it up with the Chatteris 1-Light Crystal Pendant. Courtesy of Wayfair

Sometimes all your bedroom needs is a little glamour. A pair of gorgeous iridescent crystal pendants bring the sparkle to your life. Crystal pendant lights are available in a variety of colors, giving you personalized bedroom styling options.

A Traditional Bedside Pendant Light

Soft Bedside Pendant Light

Simplicity is the secret to choosing a traditional bedroom pendant light like the West Elm’s Sculptural Glass Geo Pendant. Courtesy of  West Elm

If you’d like to soften the light in your bedroom, a frosted glass pendant can give you the ambiance you need. You can change the softness of your bedroom light just by changing the bulb. When you’re shopping for a pendant light, be sure that you know which bulbs are specified for any fixture you’re considering.

Industrial Loft-Style Pendant

Industrial bedroom pendant

Dark bronze metal and chunky details give the PB Classic Industrial Cord Milk Glass Pendant a pretty, industrial, style. Courtesy of  Pottery Barn

Love industrial and loft style? Look for bronze or iron and strong details when you’re shopping for bedroom pendants. You can mix and match metal finishes in an industrial-style space, but the dark metals should rule the room.

Give Your Bedroom a Vintage Vibe

Retro Style Bedside Pendant

Add a little vintage style with the PB Classic Ribbed Glass Pendant. Courtesy of Pottery Barn

Bring the vintage vibe back from where it started in the 1960s with a retro-looking bedside pendant that’s a fun addition to any bedroom decorating style. To get this look, shop for globe shapes, chain swags and vintage finishes. 

Modern Farmhouse Style in the Bedroom

Modern Farmhouse Bedside Pendant

Wood details bring a modern farmhouse vibe to the Shelbi 1-Light Geometric Pendant. Courtesy of Wayfair

Bring your favorite modern farmhouse style into your bedroom with rustic pendants. The secret to farmhouse style is comfortable shapes and materials. Wood and rustic metals, along with Edison bulbs, capture the modern farmhouse style perfectly.

Mid-Century Modern Bedroom Pendant

Mid-Century Modern Swag Light

The Anello Spun Cone Pendant has mid-century modern-style, and is an easy way to pull together a contemporary bedroom. Courtesy of  Rejuvenation

Mid-century modern decorating never seems to go out of style. The iconic lighting of this style can be used in a contemporary bedroom to give it a mid-century look. Corded pendant lights are the truest to the mid-century style and give your bedroom a more authentic vibe. 

Boho Swag Light

Boho Bedroom Pendant

Express your boho style with Andino Rolled Edge Pierced Dome global-style pendant. Courtesy of Wayfair

Bedroom swag lights are perfect for boho style. Look for pendants in natural materials like rattan, wood and metal with intricate patterns. A swag pendant with a chain or cord gives your boho bedroom a relaxed and casual vibe. 

The post 10 Bedside Pendant Lights That Will Rock Your Bedroom appeared first on Freshome.com.

10 Modern Storage Beds that can Solve your Storage Issues

We hope you like the products we recommend. Just so you are aware, Freshome may collect a share of sales from the links on this page. 

An oversized closet is a very rare luxury. So what do you do if yours is less than generous? You get creative with where you store your items. The bed is the largest piece in the bedroom – and often wastes lots of valuable storage space. No more! These 10 modern storage beds cleverly solve your storage issues.

1. Morphis Upholstered Platform Bed at Wayfair, $440 and up

best modern storage beds

The Morphis is a simple, modern upholstered and tufted bed that pops open to reveal tons of storage underneath the mattress. Add boxes, bins and baskets to keep the contents under the bed organized. Image: Wayfair

2. Step One Full Platform Bed at AllModern, $360

best storage beds

This storage bed is a good choice if you already own a simple headboard. Mount the headboard on the wall and pair it with this bed. Image: All Modern

3. PB Teen Ultimate Platform Bed + Cubby/Cabinet Set, $900 and up

best storage beds with shelving

This bed may be sold by Pottery Barn Teen, but the clean styling makes it perfectly grown up. Image: PBTeen

4. Flexible Full Storage Platform Bed at Wayfair, $330 and up

storage beds with cubbies

Open cubbies underneath the mattress can hold books, boxes and baskets for additional storage. Image: Wayfair

5. Room & Board Marlo Bed with Storage Drawer, $2100 and up

upholstered storage beds

This custom upholstered bed features a large drawer at the footboard instead of on the sides to avoid interfering with your nightstands. Image: Room & Board

6. Carnevale Upholstered Storage Platform Bed at Wayfair, $770

storage beds with under the bed storage

The mechanism of this platform storage bed lifts straight up and locks in place to allow for ease of access to the items underneath. Image: Wayfair

7. Ikea BRIMNES Bed Frame with storage & headboard, $399

storage beds with drawers

This is one of Ikea’s best selling beds, with 2 drawers on either side of the bed and a headboard that features a bookcase and slide-out storage. Image: Ikea

8. PB Teen Cleary Captain’s Bed, $1600 to $1800

best storage beds with many drawers

If you have lots of small things that would benefit most from drawer storage, the updated look of this traditional captain’s storage bed is what you need. Image: PB Teen

9. PB Teen Store-It 6-Cubby Bed + Storage Headboard Set, $730 and up

storage beds

Simple clean lines and plenty of shelving area on the headboard and below make this bed a versatile choice with plenty of places to arrange your extra items. Image: PB Teen

10. LAXseries Queen Storage Bed at Amazon

best contemporary storage beds

The LAX Storage bed is a contemporary platform bed with the bonus of self-concealing drawers on wheels. Image: Amazon

Which of these modern storage beds are your favorite? Let us know in the comments.

The post 10 Modern Storage Beds that can Solve your Storage Issues appeared first on Freshome.com.

5 Secrets for Creating a Romantic Feng Shui Bedroom

Feng Shui Bedroom Ideas

Decorate your Feng Shui bedroom with The Twillery Co. Akins Duvet Cover Set in romantic light pink. Courtesy of  Wayfair

We hope you like the products we recommend. Just so you are aware, Freshome may collect a share of sales from the links on this page. 

When you think of Feng Shui, romance may not be the first thing that comes to mind. Feng Shui principles are all about enhancing our living spaces — including the bedroom. The elements of Feng Shui are meant to bring out the right energy, (or Chi’i) for every room in our home. The colors and elements of this practice focus on many areas of our lives, including family harmony, creativity and romance. The good news is that you can create a Feng Shui bedroom with just a few simple changes.

Here’s how Feng Shui elements can create a romantic and relaxing vibe for your bedroom.

1. Start with a romantic Feng Shui bedroom color scheme

Romantic Feng Shui Bedroom

The Burrier 6-Piece Comforter Set, in a neutral gray and rich red palette, create the perfect color scheme for a romantic Feng Shui bedroom. Courtesy of Wayfair 

The Feng Shui colors meant to enhance loving relationships at home are, not coincidentally, the same colors we already associate with romance. Traditional Feng Shui bedroom colors include red, pink, and white. It’s not  practical to decorate your bedroom in such a limited color palette, but a soothing neutral color palette with Feng Shui color accents is a wonderful way to incorporate them. Here’s how to use these romantic colors in your bedroom decor:

  • Choose artwork with red or pink accents to enhance your romantic bedroom color scheme.
  • Add a few throw pillows or a luxurious throw in the Feng Shui romantic colors.
  • Candles can not only enhance your color scheme, but also add a romantic vibe.
  • Fresh flowers in red or pink are especially beneficial to achieving the romantic Chi’i (energy) in your bedroom.
  • Think beyond a simple red, pink or white Feng Shui color palette in your bedroom. To create harmony, you can choose shades that fit your color scheme, like peach, rust or ivory.

2. Use Feng Shui romantic symbolism in your bedroom

Romantic Feng Shui Art

Wall26 Romantic Swan Wall Art is the ideal Feng Shui symbolism for a romantic bedroom. Courtesy of   Walmart

There is more to Feng Shui than colors or furniture placement. When it comes to your bedroom, there are designs and symbols thought to enhance the romantic energy.

  • Decorate in pairs. The symbolism of “twos” is important to Feng Shui bedroom design. Images or figurines of swans, Mandarin ducks, in pairs, is especially auspicious.
  • Artwork that evokes love and relationships. Whether you frame happy photos with your significant other for your walls, or hang classic art that depicts loving relationships, this type of wall art is a must for romantic Feng Shui.
  • Avoid art and decor that suggests unpleasant emotions or loss.
  • Family photos are wonderful in other areas of the house, but are not considered favorable for a romantic Feng Shui bedroom — this is the space for romantic photos that support your relationship.

3. Add romantic bedroom lighting

Feng Shui Bedroom Ideas

The pretty Kappler Comforter Set, and pendant lighting over a nightstand, adds glamor to a romantic bedroom. Courtesy of Joss & Main

The most romantic bedrooms are relaxing, and lighting is a big part of that. Every bedroom needs basic overhead lighting for cleaning, getting dressed and finding things. Your romantic bedroom lighting is another layer of light that sets the mood for your romantic Feng Shui bedroom.

Bedside lighting can come from table lamps, sconces and swing arm lamps, or hanging pendants over your nightstands. To achieve romantic ambiance through lighting, your bedside lights should be dimmable and soft. You can add additional romantic lighting with LED candles, which can be purchased with a timer and remote, for hassle-free mood lighting. You can also put up delicate string lights in your bedroom for a totally romantic look, year-round.

4. Choose romantic and luxurious bed linens

Romantic Feng Shui Bedding

Finding the perfect bedding for your romantic bedroom makeover is magical, like this gorgeous Lush Velvet Tack Stitch Quilt + Shams  from West Elm. Soft pink accents makes this the perfect Feng Shui bedding. Courtesy of  West Elm

Your bed linens are the most important element in a romantic bedroom. The Feng Shui element for love is Earth — this means that bed linens in natural fabrics and neutral colors can enhance romantic energy in your bedroom. The most romantic bed linens should feel romantic and luxurious to the touch, even if they aren’t expensive. Complete your bed linen ensemble with throw blankets and pillows in the colors of Feng Shui romance.

5. Feng Shui your bedroom with romantic accent decor

Feng Shui Romantic Bedroom

The romantic Urban Habitat Comforter Set in neutral colors and peach accents sets a calming mood. Your Feng Shui bedroom doesn’t have to be elaborately decorated, just inviting and romantic. Courtesy of  Bed, Bath & Beyond

The wonderful secret to bringing the benefits of Feng Shui into your home is that it works in any decorating style. Your accent decor doesn’t have to be Feng Shui-themed, it can be in whatever style you choose for your bedroom. Your goal for achieving a romantic bedroom is to consciously choose each piece of decor, and ask yourself if it will enhance the relaxing and romantic style you hope to achieve through Feng  Shui. The most romantic bedroom decor invites you to linger and relax.

The post 5 Secrets for Creating a Romantic Feng Shui Bedroom appeared first on Freshome.com.

4 Simple Ways To Use Wallpaper In A Bedroom To Create A Fresh Look

Lots of people have tried to use wallpaper in a bedroom, but only a few know how to utilize this material to its fullest potential. Wallpaper shouldn’t just be thrown up as a way to do away with blank walls. Rather, it should be a major player in the design of the room as a whole.

To that end, we’ve brought you four fresh and simple ways to use wallpaper in a bedroom. Look them over to see which suggestions will work best in your bedroom’s design. With any luck, the wallpaper may just become your favorite feature of the whole room.

wallpaper in a bedroom

Let your wallpaper dictate your color palette. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

Set the color palette

One way to use wallpaper in your bedroom is to have it set the color palette for the entire project. For example, you can see that the picture above features a chic monochromatic palette. In it, everything from the wallpaper to the blankets, bedding and throw pillows come together to form a cohesive look.

If you decide to go this route, the key is to pick out a wallpaper that you love first. Then, build the rest of the room around it. While you can, of course, go with any aesthetic that you’d like, remember that the size of the pattern is important. It should be in proportion with the size of the room. Bigger rooms can handle bigger patterns and vice versa.

accent

Use wallpaper to create an eye-catching accent wall. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

Create an accent wall

Since wallpaper tends to be a style statement, it’s a natural fit to adorn an accent wall. Accent walls are meant to draw the eye, so this should be where you use your biggest patterns and boldest shades. Don’t hesitate to go all out here.

In this case, the placement of your wallpaper is your most important consideration. Ideally, you’ll want your accent wall to highlight the focal point of the room since it’s bound to capture viewers’ attention. Most of the time, in a bedroom, this means choosing the wall at the head of the bed. However, as you see in the photo above, sometimes exceptions can be made, especially if you’re going with a more mural-like pattern.

headboard

Don’t go without a headboard. Create one from wallpaper instead. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

Make a makeshift headboard

Let’s face it, furniture is expensive. If you’re not quite ready to go out and invest in a quality headboard, wallpaper could be a cost-effective solution for you. Rolls of wallpaper cost pennies on the dollar and this material can be used to fit a variety of aesthetic tastes.

In this case, the actual application is your biggest concern. First, you have to size it correctly. You should measure out the wallpaper so that it is slightly larger than the width of your bed. A good rule of thumb is to leave a two- to three-inch border on either side. Then, there’s the placement. Do your best to apply the wallpaper on a wall that’s smooth and without pockmarks. Doing so will decrease your chances of finding annoying air bubbles in the final product.

If you’re renting and don’t want to have to deal with taking down wallpaper at the end of your lease, don’t worry. This DIY project is still an option for you. You’ll simply want to use removable wallpaper instead.

texture

Use wallpaper to bring texture into the room. Image: 2M media/Shutterstock

Add some texture

Finally, wallpaper can be used to add a much-needed dose of texture to any room. Remember, in interior design, texture refers to the way that something looks like it feels. Incorporating a variety of textures into a room is one of the major tenets of interior design because it makes the room more visually interesting.

No matter what type of print you use in your bedroom, your wallpaper will have a texture. This is due in part to the materials used in its construction. However, you can certainly amplify the feeling of texture by choosing a rough-looking pattern like the one shown above.

For this, we recommend going with a print inspired by natural materials. Natural-looking prints like wood and stone are very on-trend at the moment and will serve you well in creating a look that’s both modern and nuanced.

The post 4 Simple Ways To Use Wallpaper In A Bedroom To Create A Fresh Look appeared first on Freshome.com.

5 Clothing Organization Ideas for New Year’s Cleaning

One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is  finally getting the home organized. That is certainly a worthy goal, especially if your messiness has turned into a… situation. One of the places that usually needs the most TLC is the closet. Too often, it’s easy to throw things haphazardly into the closet. Sometimes it feels like because you put things behind those doors you managed to clean a room. Luckily, there are several easy ways to get those piles of clothing into a working system that’s easy to browse on short notice. Below are some clothing organization ideas for finally getting that closet space organized.

Clothing Organization Stand Alone Rack

Displaying dresses on racks is a good way to plan an outfit. Image: Kootut Murut

Racks

One increasingly popular clothing organization idea is to go for standalone racks. These are especially popular in small spaces, where designers are even using fully stocked clothing racks as room dividers. You can see other small closet or no-closet ideas here.

A clothing rack can also be a good way to hang formal wear you don’t want to get wrinkled instead of jamming it in with other clothing. Or you can place a clothing rack at the side of a bedroom and use it to plan and hang your next day’s outfit. A rolling rack can also add additional storage to larger walk-in closets. Stand-alone clothing racks are highly versatile as well.

Clothing Organization Drawer Dividers

Store just about anything with drawer dividers. Image: Wow Great Place

Drawer dividers

Another organization idea is drawer dividers. You can see how well a system like this works for belts. You can place just about anything in these drawers: rolled-up socks, smaller shoes or hair accessories, for example. With larger drawer dividers, you can even place folded pants or shirts in them.

Products like this are easy to find and even easier to place in the drawer. An example is this expandable drawer divider from The Container Store. A design like this can fit almost any drawer and allow you to have just the right amount of space.

Clothing Organization Cubby System

Cubbies work great for items that roll well, like scarves. Image: Built-Rite Closets

Clothing organization with a cubby system

Another clothing organization idea is to add a cubby system to the closet. A cubby system can work well for rolled cloth items. A system like this is great for scarfs, socks, knit hats and gloves, especially. Turns out rolling your clothing isn’t just a suitcase packing hack.

This is actually part of a customized closet system. If you want to be serious about getting your closet in order, you may want to look into having a custom-built closet organization system. A variety of carpenters and handymen specialize in making these types of closets.

Clothing Organization Basket System

Baskets are a classy way to get clothing organized. Image: Plan A

Basket storage

Basket storage offers another popular clothing organization idea. Baskets are a great option because they fit right on a shelf. However, the sides of the basket give a sleek, uniform look to the space, rather than just having things heaped on the shelf itself.

Baskets can also add a certain design element to a space. Wicker baskets can work in more traditional or rustic homes. Neutral cloth baskets fit into any space. Or you could go for brightly colored baskets as an added accent color to the space.

Clothing Organization Shoe Shelves

Display shoes on a shelving system for ease in choosing a pair. Image: Neat Method

Shoe shelving

An organized clothing area wouldn’t be complete without having all those shoes in order. Full-wall shelving can work for organizing shoes. You can place your shoes right on the open shelves and remember what types you actually own with a single glance. (Because let’s be honest, we all have a shoe style we forgot we owned until we pulled them out from under the bed.)

It’s also a good way to organize your shoes by style, like formal, boots, sandals and running shoes, for instance. That makes picking a pair to go with an outfit or activity all that much easier.

Could your closet benefit from any of these organization tips? Do you have any other New Year’s organization resolutions? Let us know in the comments!

The post 5 Clothing Organization Ideas for New Year’s Cleaning appeared first on Freshome.com.

25 Gorgeous Minimalist Fireplaces to Keep You Cozy This Winter

minimalist fireplaces

Minimalist fireplaces prove that function can follow form and still, well, function. Image: Prentiss Balance Wickline Architects

In the winter, having a fireplace is a little slice of heaven. When the sun sets behind the horizon, it invites you to grab a cozy throw, a book and a mug of something warm. The only problem with having a fireplace is that it can take over your room’s design. That is, if you let it. Fortunately, modern and minimalist fireplaces are delivering design-savvy homeowners and renters an alternative to the stodgy hearths of yesteryear.

If you’re looking for a fireplace that will meld with your design vision, rest easy. There are a wide range of indoor varieties. You might want something larger-than-life that completely defines your living space. Or you might want something that will play nicely with the other elements in the room. If the latter speaks to you, read on. We’ve lined up 25 gorgeous minimalist fireplaces that will keep you warm all winter long.

White minimalist fireplaces

When you have an intriguing, textured element in the room, your fireplace can take a comfortable back seat. Image: Folds Inside Ltd

Setting your minimalist fireplace on the floor gives you maximal ambiance will freeing up more wall space for art. Image: Shinberg Levinas Architectural Design

This room blends a lightly textured rug, floating glass coffee tables and the streamlined fireplace to create a decidedly airy feel. Image: Michael Downes – UA Creative

In an all-white living space, a simple, architectural mantel is all you need. Image: Designer Premier

Unobstructed sides are a major trend in minimalist fireplaces – and for good reason. They help the design feel light and give you better access to your cozy fire. Image: The Interiors Project

Interesting architectural details – like this art cutout – help root minimalist fireplaces in the space even while leaving room for other elements to play. Image: Clark | Richardson Architects

The shape of the fireplace mirrors the shape of the high-impact table behind the couch, drawing the eye to it without detracting from its intricate detailing. Image: NICOLEHOLLIS

Dark minimalist fireplaces

minimalist fireplaces 5

Adding a fireplace to an accent wall doesn’t have to mean losing the impact of the accent. Image: Stephenson Design Collective

minimalist fireplaces 2

The soft glow of this streamlined fireplace design also highlights the warm tones in the stone wall. Image: SKG Designs

minimalist fireplaces 22

Minimalist fireplaces let the view shine. And with a view like this, why would you choose anything else? Image: Bacic Group

minimalist fireplaces 21

When you have an architectural element meant to draw the eye up, keeping the fireplace minimal ensures it doesn’t get weighed down. Image: Lango Works

Glass-enclosed minimalist fireplaces

minimalist fireplaces 15

A simple glass cutout helps this fireplace shine even in the midst of so many other visually interesting elements. Image: Pixers

minimalist fireplaces 23

Glass on either side of the fireplace connects the living and dining spaces. Image: JAWS

minimalist fireplaces 25

A glass-encased fireplace inset in a heavy, dark wall gives this dining room a cozy but elevated feel. Image: Swiss Milk Studio

minimalist fireplaces 14

This minimalist fireplace serves as a way to connect the living area to the space beyond – even through a towering wall of concrete and wood. Image: Rustic Fire Place

Minimalist fireplaces in the bedroom

minimalist fireplaces 16

A fireplace nestled among your dresser drawers adds warmth without limiting your storage options. Image: Krista + Home

minimalist fireplaces 8

If you like a streamlined aesthetic in the bedroom so your mind can drift off to sleep undistracted, minimalist fireplaces are for you. Image: Tierney Conner Architecture

minimalist fireplaces 11

Alternately, minimalist fireplaces also work well in darker, more moody spaces where you don’t want to disrupt the feel with too much light or warmth. Image: Ownby Design

Traditional fireplaces often feel masculine, but this simple and bright alternative helps the room establish its feminine air. Image: The Cross Decor & Design

Mixed material minimalist fireplaces

minimalist fireplaces 12

In a room where multiple shades of grey are at play, the black of the fireplace also provides an anchor. Image: Design 2 Finish

minimalist fireplaces 24

A floating row of cabinets, an inset for firewood and a textural accent wall all complement the fireplace in this room. Image: J.E Keating + Associates

minimalist fireplaces 13

The small black inset of this minimalist fireplace breaks up the creamy expanse of concrete in this space, adding character. Image: Matt Gibson Architecture + Design

minimalist fireplaces 17

In this living room, the simplicity of the extremely minimal fireplace helps balance bright accents. Image: LEIVARS

minimalist fireplaces 18

This backlit, white expanse proves that the space above minimal fireplaces can be simultaneously sleek and also visually captivating. Image: Barc Architects Ltd.

What do you think of the minimal fireplace trend? Would you add one to your home or apartment? Let us know in the comments.

The post 25 Gorgeous Minimalist Fireplaces to Keep You Cozy This Winter appeared first on Freshome.com.