Jonathan Adler And Amazon Partner Up To Bring You Happy Chic at Amazing Prices

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Believe it or not, Amazon is just now rolling out their first exclusive home collection. And who better to collab with than designer Jonathan Adler, Mr. Happy Chic?  The line, called Now House, features luxe furniture, rugs and home decor – all at amazing prices when compared to Adler’s signature collection.

Here are our favorite items from the new Jonathan Adler Now House Line, exclusively at Amazon:

Breakfast In Blue

jonathan adler now house for amazon

This tall bar set featuring a mirrored top is perfect for small dining spaces or your terrace. All images: Amazon

Shop the look:

jonathan adler now house for amazon



Pretty In Pink

jonathan adler now house accessories

Every object in this living room setting features a fresh, new color, from Millennial pink to powder blue to teal.

Shop the look:

jonathan adler now house accessories
jonathan adler now house accessories
jonathan adler now house accessories
jonathan adler now house accessories
jonathan adler now house accessories

A High-Contrast Entryway

jonathan adler now house black and white furnishings

Graphic black and white patterns – down to the rug – make a bold statement in any small or large entryway.

Shop the look:

jonathan adler now house black and white furnishings
jonathan adler now house black and white furnishings
jonathan adler now house black and white furnishings
jonathan adler now house black and white furnishings
jonathan adler now house black and white furnishings
jonathan adler now house black and white furnishings
jonathan adler now house black and white furnishings
jonathan adler now house black and white furnishings
jonathan adler now house black and white furnishings

A Modern Mint Home Office

jonathan adler now house desk at amazon

The small mint desk has a mirrored glass surface that matches the colorful mirrored wall art.

Shop the look:

jonathan adler now house desk at amazon
jonathan adler now house desk at amazon
jonathan adler now house desk at amazon
jonathan adler now house accessories
jonathan adler now house desk at amazon
jonathan adler now house desk at amazon
jonathan adler now house desk at amazon
jonathan adler now house desk at amazon
jonathan adler now house desk at amazon

 Blue Modern Living Room

jonathan adler now house amazon rugs

A fashionable blue and white living room setting is fresh, fun and modern. The patterned area rug pulls together all the living room’s tones.

Shop the look:

jonathan adler now house amazon rugs
jonathan adler now house amazon rugs
jonathan adler now house amazon rugs
jonathan adler now house amazon rugs
jonathan adler now house amazon rugs
jonathan adler now house amazon rugs
jonathan adler now house amazon rugs
jonathan adler now house amazon rugs
jonathan adler now house black and white furnishings
jonathan adler now house amazon rugs
jonathan adler now house amazon rugs
jonathan adler now house black and white furnishings
jonathan adler now house amazon rugs
jonathan adler now house amazon rugs
jonathan adler now house amazon rugs

Now House Graphic Bedding

amazon bedding from new jonathan adler now house

Layers of black and white grids and checks are accentuated by a blush pink tone.

Get the look:

amazon bedding from new jonathan adler now house
amazon bedding from new jonathan adler now house
jonathan adler now house desk at amazon
amazon bedding from new jonathan adler now house
amazon bedding from new jonathan adler now house
amazon bedding from new jonathan adler now house

Jonathan Adler and Amazon’s collaboration is bright, graphic and features a nod to the 60s, 70s and 80s. There are hundreds of pieces in the collection (and more to come). What’s your favorite color from the series?

The post Jonathan Adler And Amazon Partner Up To Bring You Happy Chic at Amazing Prices appeared first on Freshome.com.

24 Thanksgiving Table Runners That Can Add Flair to Your Table

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For as little as $18, you can transform your holiday table with a Thanksgiving table runner. You don’t have to go all out with fine china, pumpkins, leaves and a forest wonderland (although that would be pretty cool). All you need is a dining table, countertop or coffee table and one of these table runners. Layer as much or as little as you want to add Thanksgiving flair.

Once you add a table runner, consider layering your table setting with candles, dishes and a centerpiece. The more the merrier this holiday season. And the more delightful your table will look!

fall leaves thanksgiving table runners

The foundation of your festive Thanksgiving table is the table runner. Add as much or as little as you like. Runner: Crate & Barrel Autumn Leaves Runner, $70

Thanksgiving table runners with an exotic or boho-chic vibe

Boho-chic and far-flung or folksy patterns are the biggest trend of 2018. Why not mix earthy Thanksgiving spice colors with sumptuous exotic patterns like the ones below? The combo is stunning.

fall leaves thanksgiving table runners
fall leaves thanksgiving table runners





Thanksgiving table runners featuring plaid

Plaid will always be a classic pattern for the holidays. Go with earth tones like browns, spices and mustard colors at Thanksgiving. Or for a modern take on the classic, choose buffalo checks or plaids in grey, black and white.

plaid table runners for thanksgiving

A lush Thanksgiving table setting featuring an earthy plaid table runner by Threshold from Target, $18.

plaid table runners for thanksgiving
plaid table runners for thanksgiving
plaid table runners for thanksgiving
plaid table runners for thanksgiving
plaid table runners for thanksgiving
plaid table runners for thanksgiving

Farmhouse-chic table runners

farmhouse Thanksgiving table runners

Natural materials like linen and burlap in soft, understated colors are the perfect table runner choice for a farmhouse-style Thanksgiving table. Image: Elle Decor

farmhouse Thanksgiving table runners


Thanksgiving table runners for a little bling

A little sparkle or shine goes a long way in adding a festive feel to your Thanksgiving table. These runners vary from very subtle metallic thread or embroidery – to bold metallic or beaded patterns.






Love the idea of a Thanksgiving table runner? You can run one down the middle of the table or arrange two or more across the table as a shared place setting for guests sitting across from each other. Don’t forget to add colorful coordinating paper or linen napkins for the occasion.

The post 24 Thanksgiving Table Runners That Can Add Flair to Your Table appeared first on Freshome.com.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: Using Mirrors as a Design Element

We all know that mirrors can make a room appear larger – and that’s a neat trick –  but mirrors are more than just one-trick ponies. They can also be used as a design element to help complete whatever look you’re trying to achieve. A mirror can provide either contrast or balance when used correctly. It can also unify a space or serve as the focal point. However, it’s important to make sure that the scale and proportion are harmonious with the setting.

Below are just some of the many ways you can use mirrors as a design element.

Suspended Mirror

A trendy New York bathroom for two. Image: SGH Designs

This mirror is suspended from the ceiling and serves as the room’s focal point while providing both interest and contrast. However, the mirror is also functional, serving to separate the two back-to-back vanities and allowing the users on either side to view it simultaneously as needed. In addition, the mirror is low enough to be used by people of almost any height, but it’s also high enough to avoid getting splashed with water.

Tile-Surround Mirror

A Naples Beach, Miami, FL powder room. Image: 41 West

This is just one of the vanity stations in this home’s master bath. The mirror – with beveled sides – has a glass mosaic iridescent tile surround with diamond glass grout. The mirror is the attention grabber in this small space with high ceilings, and the sconces are placed slightly above eye level to balance the room and draw the eye upward.

Mirrored Closet Doors

A walk-in closet in Chicago, IL. Image: Randy Heller Pure and Simple Interior Design

The walk-in closet in this Chicago lake home has antiqued mirror closet doors, in addition to the antiqued door leading into the walk-in. This touch of old-world glamour adds just enough bling to make the room stylish without being gaudy.

Mirror as Unifier

A Boston powder room. Image: Cynthia Discroll Interiors

In this elegant Boston powder room, the mirror unifies all of the room’s other elements. It brings out the polished chrome and crystal handles of the faucet and the chrome light fixture. The mirror also highlights the soft grays on the walls and countertop as well as the design in the charcoal drawings.

A Wall of Mirrors

A lobby in Miami, FL. Image: Pegasus Builders

This may look like the lobby of a commercial building, but it’s actually a Miami-based residential lobby. Using a wall of mirrors, it plays on the design element of pattern, which adds another level of interest to the room and complements the repeating pattern on the floor and cabinet.

A Mirrored Wall

A Sydney, Australia bathroom. Image: Ian Moore Architects

The horizontal and vertical lines in the wall of mirrors help to define this sleek space and focus attention on the wall-mounted sink and toilet. The mirrored wall also helps to bounce the natural light around the room.

Mirror Used to Complement Nature

A bathroom in a modern New York home: Image: William Reue Architecture

The view outside is clearly the focal point in the space. However, the mirror, wood floors and cabinets in this minimalist bathroom provide contrast to the otherwise all-white areas. The geometric shape of the bathroom mirrors also adds texture and interest, which keeps this space from looking sterile when the windows are closed. The mirrors also provide a repeating pattern, a popular element in design.

Mirror Backsplash

A New York home with a mirror backsplash. Image: ML Interior Designs

This New York home uses a mirror backsplash as a unique way to add interest. The subway tiles create a repeating pattern and are also easy to clean since there are no ugly grout lines.

Mirror Furniture and Accessories

An elegant home office in New York. Image: Vanessa DeLeon

A desk is another way to incorporate mirrors in your design. And according to Lyndsey Dianne, owner and operator of DianneDecor.com,  mirrors can also be used in other ways to provide accents. “Mirrored trays and vases make great centerpieces, and they add a bit of glam to a space, particularly when paired with chrome or silver,” she says.  “A small mirror embellished with a few rhinestones or diamond wrap is a great design element, and it can be used as a lovely jewelry tray or a place to hold your perfume,” Dianne says.

The post Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: Using Mirrors as a Design Element appeared first on Freshome.com.

6 Tips to Get an Updated Color Scheme Without Painting

If you want to get a fresh look in your home for 2019, then you might want to try updating to a new color scheme. Playing with your room’s color is a great way to breathe some new life into the space. But you may be picturing major changes, like having to completely repaint the room or get all-new furniture. There are actually several different ways to update the color scheme in your home that don’t require a major overhaul. So take a look below for some easy ways to get a new or updated color scheme in your home for the new year.

Updated Color Scheme Two Colors

Don’t feel limited to just one accent color. Image: Mary Dewalt Design Group

Two Accent Colors

If you already have an accent color that you worked perfectly into your space, you can still have an updated color scheme. One idea is to incorporate a second accent color into the space. You can see how the concept works in the photo above.

The blue and lime green are both well-balanced in the space. The green in the area rug is balanced by the blue of the scenery outside. Small elements like chair cushions, vases and throw pillows are equally shared between the two shades. By creating a similar balance, you can combine any two colors for a fresh look in your space.

Updated Color Scheme Throw Pillows

Throw blankets and pillows are so easy to update, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner. Image: AVI Homes

Throw Pillows and Blankets

Another idea for breathing some color into your space is to choose new shades in the throw pillows. The photo above shows how some simple throw pillows add a layer of color to the neutral room. These do a good job of creating layers of color in red, orange and pale yellow. And you really can’t get any easier than placing some throw pillows.

Along the same lines, you can also use a large throw blanket over a sofa or chair in a bright color. That can breathe a good dose new color into the space and is also very easy to place.

Updated Color Scheme Tabletop Items

A variety of items work for bringing a new color into a space, like lamps, statues, ceramics and candles. Image: The Spotted Frog

Tabletop or Shelving Accents for an Updated Color Scheme

You can get an updated color scheme in any space by wisely choosing what elements you have on the tables and shelves. The photo above shows how some bright aqua works into the neutral space above simply by placing the lamps, a bowl on the coffee table and some bright candles back by the mirror.

This photo also shows how well uniform throw pillows placed throughout the space help add balance. By only focusing on tabletops and shelves, the color may not reflect on the furniture, leading to less balance. But the throw pillows are, again, an easy way to make a new color work in a space.

Updated Color Scheme Furniture Paint Job

Bring new life to a space with updated smaller pieces of furniture. Image: Burnham Design

Painted Accent Furniture

Another idea for an updated color scheme is to simply paint some accent furniture or buy small pieces that have the new color you wish to introduce. An example is the orange nightstand in the photo above. Furniture pieces like this are easy to find new, used or you can paint them yourself. You could get colorful wooden chairs, coffee tables or end tables, as a few other ideas. They’re a low-fuss way to get a new color in the room without having to do any major paint jobs or large-scale furniture replacements.

The photo also shows how well a colored furniture piece can work with colored tabletop accents. By choosing a shade that’s slightly different between the furniture and table pieces, you end up layering the color in the space in an attractive way.

Updated Color Scheme Wall Art

Wall art has always been a great way to bring color into a space. Image: Olive Interiors

New Wall Art

One major benefit of wall art is that it’s easy to swap out as your whims change. If you’d like a new color scheme in a space, start by changing or adding in wall art that incorporates the new color. An example is the wall art in the photo above, which has orange tones that reflect the chairs and tones in the throw pillows.

The photo above shows that you don’t have to be overbearing with your wall art, either. You can go for a more muted piece that features accents of the new color. Of course, if you’d like to go bold, you can also find art that features just your new shade.

Updated Color Scheme Colorful Rug

Area rugs are easy to place and often pack plenty of color. Image: Hollub Homes

A New Area Rug

Another easy way to get updated color in your space is to go for a new area rug. You get the color saturation on the floor without completely carpeting a room. And the look is more temporary if you like to update your space often.

The photo above shows the concept in action. The pink shades in the chairs, lighting fixture and ottoman are reflected in parts of the area rug. If you’re going for bold color, you can choose a multicolored rug like this that matches the accent color in the rest of the room. It’s a good way to get a multicolored look that still fits in with the room’s overall design. Or you could get a solid-colored rug that just has the new shade you wish to bring into the room.

The post 6 Tips to Get an Updated Color Scheme Without Painting appeared first on Freshome.com.

Interior Designer Inspiration for Styling Your Coffee Table

Styled Coffee Table

Styling your coffee table sets the vibe for your entire living room. Image: Pottery Barn

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We love the look of a styled coffee table to give your living room a pulled-together feel. When you think of your coffee table as more than just a surface for setting drinks and a book or two, you can create a stylish addition to your decor. When styling your coffee table, you’ll want to keep functionality in mind. A beautiful display of books and accessories is wonderful, but be sure you leave room for the essentials (like coasters and space for snacks and drinks). Once you have assessed how you actually use your coffee table, get inspired by these clever styling ideas from top interior designers:

Coffee Table Styling Made Simple

Styled coffee table

Flowers and a glass lantern brighten up a simple coffee table. Image: Hoskings Interiors

Jill Hoskings-Cartland of Hoskings Interiors finds several opportunities to transform a simple coffee table into a focal point. Using her tips, styling a coffee table that is both attractive and functional is easy.

  • Glass instantly adds sophistication to a vignette. A glass cloche, or a collection of this traditional bell-shaped jar in varying heights, can feature everything from greens and florals to sculptures and collectibles. Display them on a tray to present them as a curated grouping.   
  • Coffee tables should be functional, so as you plan out your centerpiece or vignette, incorporate enough room for your guests to put down a drink when you’re entertaining. Use 1/3 of the overall length/diameter of the table as the approximate space you’ll need to style a centerpiece.
  • It’s the successful mix of color, texture and various heights that take a coffee table centerpiece to the next level. Books, vases, greens and metal elements carefully styled in one cohesive arrangement can create a perfectly balanced, magazine-worthy vignette.
  • Repeat your wall color, couch color or a color in nearby artwork on your coffee table. This makes that all-important aesthetic connection and creates a repetition of color.
  • Change your coffee table vignette seasonally. It will keep you from getting bored and help you celebrate the season without having to wait for the December holidays. Since fall is approaching, think silver pumpkins and a fall floral arrangement in a silver vase as an alternative to the standard “basket of pinecones.”

Be Open to New Ideas

beach house decor

An eclectic group of small tables offers flexibility in a comfortable beach home. Image: Mark Cutler Design

Mark Cutler is a dynamic LA-based interior designer. Mark’s approach is to rethink the traditional idea of what a coffee table can be. Customizing the configuration of your furniture and accessories can create a totally unique look when styling your coffee table.

Mark asks, “Why just one table? Depending on the situation, a cluster of small tables may be the best solution. In the featured photo, it was a large room so a cluster of tables allowed the grouping to expand and contract as needed, whether you need a place to put a cocktail or somewhere to put your feet up. Also, since it was a beach house, we were trying to tell a story about location and I thought that the group told a cool story about flotsam and jetsam that may wash up on the beach.” 

“I like to use a variety of objects on a table. Boxes are great for holding a collection of remotes, books add a bit of flavor and tell the story of your interests and even a few pieces of art glass or sculpture add some variety of color and scale that can capture the eye.  My general rule of thumb is to use collections in odd numbers so you will often see in my work groupings of 3, 5 or 7. This always seems more harmonious.”

Keep Your Coffee Table Style Simple

contemporary coffee table

A glass and metal coffee table highlights simple accessories. Image: Wayfair

Alice Chiu of Miss Alice Designs shares her inspiration for creating a relaxing and organized coffee table design. “I like to keep the coffee table very simple without a lot of clutter, so I usually just style with one or two books (in different sizes and stacked) and flowers, or a pile of design magazines and small decorative objects on top.  I also like to vary the scale of each item to add visual interest to the table. Organizing a few items in a larger tray keeps the coffee table simple and tidy.”

Style Your Coffee Table With Meaning

A coffee table styled with favorite accessories is a stylish accent for this comfortable space. Image: Chad James Group

Interior designer Chad James shared his favorite (and simple) tips for styling your coffee table with special items you may already have at home. “I love to arrange items as if they’re in a museum. Consider them as collected special items.” Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Choose a beautiful, unique box to hold items that aren’t so pretty, like remotes, matches or lighters for candles, a set of coasters, etc.
  • Choose eight to ten of your all-time favorite, most beautiful largescale hardback coffee table books.
  • Add your favorite scented candle in a glass hurricane vase.
  • Display something that’s alive, like simple flowers or a hearty spot of green foliage.
  • When arranging these items on the table, make sure to consider size and scale. For example, stack the largest books on the bottom towering to the smallest on top.

“Finally, make sure to add something that tells your story.  Something that’s collected or something that holds great meaning to you… like a bowl of rocks that you and your grandfather collected on walks in the country or a small pewter cup that has feathers that you’ve found on your outdoor journey.”

Think Outside the Box When Styling Your Coffee Table

natural coffee table styling

Natural elements fill this warm and inviting living room. Image: Catherine Macfee Interior Design

Mother and daughter Catherine & Justine Macfee are the creative force behind Catherine Macfee Interior Design. Their collaboration gives them a unique perspective on creating beautiful and fresh interior spaces.

Creative Director Justine Macfee suggests making your coffee table just as unique as your accessories. “As the centerpiece for any living room or entertainment space, the coffee table can always be a special anchor to set the tone for the environment. We like to use coffee tables that are unique and represent the strength of the entire home. We have created custom tables using steel, wood or glass to create these versatile and usable tables. In addition to the traditional ‘coffee table book,’ we always try to bring in something unique.”

To bring a natural style to your coffee table, Justine brings inspiration from the outside. ”One of my favorite things to do is bring a piece from the outdoors,” she says. “For example, for a beach house, we like to bring in polished driftwood and set it on a small stand. For a city home, we like to bring a piece of modern sculpture in miniature. In a casual mountain retreat or a home in a wine region, we always try to find that unique piece of art that is representative of its outdoor surroundings and culture.”

These tips should make styling your coffee table much less of a mystery. Let us know how you style yours in the comments!

The post Interior Designer Inspiration for Styling Your Coffee Table appeared first on Freshome.com.

Get Your Home Farmhouse-Chic With Ashley Furniture’s New mane + mason Collection

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. 

The farmhouse design craze is real. In the last five years, Pinterest searches for modern farmhouse style are up more than 300 percent. Everything Chip and Joanna Gaines create sells out quickly. If you’re one of the many design enthusiasts that love the modern farmhouse look, you’re gonna love the new Ashley HomeStore lifestyle brand, mane + mason.

mane + mason features a modern farmhouse aesthetic for young urban families looking for quality yet low-maintenance furnishings. According to Ashley, their new collection features “well-worn woods, woven wicker storage and galvanized steel as staples of the lifestyle, while bright and bold accents pop against the gentle shades of upholstery.”

Here are some of the best mane + mason pieces (by category) from the 450-item collection:

Urban Farmhouse Bedroom

Ashley HomeStore lifestyle brand mane + mason

Bellaby is an urban yet rustic bedroom collection featuring a bed with storage underneath. All images courtesy of Ashley Furniture.

A note about prices: We love showing you the prices of items we select. But Ashley Furniture’s very competitive pricing means prices may vary day to day as they discount the items or run special sales. Clicking on the item will take you to the best price available at the time. Get it before it’s gone!

Shop the look:

Ashley HomeStore lifestyle brand mane + mason
Ashley HomeStore lifestyle brand mane + mason
Ashley HomeStore lifestyle brand mane + mason
Ashley HomeStore lifestyle brand mane + mason
Ashley HomeStore lifestyle brand mane + mason

mane + mason bedroom sets

Rustic planks soften the edges of a modern platform bed in the Grindleburg Collection.

Shop the look:

mane + mason bedroom sets
mane + mason bedroom sets
mane + mason bedroom sets




Small Spaces

farmhouse furniture for small spaces

mane + mason offers smaller-scale pieces for tiny house living with a farmhouse twist.

Shop the look:

farmhouse furniture for small spaces
farmhouse furniture for small spaces

More mane + mason farmhouse furniture and accents for small spaces:






Farmhouse Dining Furniture

mane + mason farmhouse dining furniture

A round dining table creates a casual and intimate setting for friends and family.

Shop the look:

mane + mason farmhouse dining furniture
mane + mason farmhouse dining furniture




Modern Farmhouse Living Room Pieces

mane + mason urban farmhouse

Mix contemporary elements with rustic and vintage pieces for an urban farmhouse look.

Shop the look:

mane + mason urban farmhouse
mane + mason urban farmhouse











Farmhouse-Style Home Office Furnishings



Other mane + mason Lighting, Wall Art & Accessories









The mane + mason collection is available online with free shipping. With a variety of home accents, furniture and art available, you can turn a simple room into a chic, farmhouse oasis.

The post Get Your Home Farmhouse-Chic With Ashley Furniture’s New mane + mason Collection appeared first on Freshome.com.

Check Out The Inside’s New Katherine Carter for Homepolish Collection

The Inside is a great source for affordable home accents as well as textiles, similar to what you’d find if you work with a top interior designer. And now you can buy affordable, Mid-Century modern style pieces from one of the busiest interior designers around with the Katherine Carter for Homepolish collection.

Her top clients include Lauren Conrad and Marianna Hewitt. Her first home collection, in collaboration with The Inside, is offered in three custom prints she says were inspired by “natural textures and organic shapes in a reduced, modern palette.”

The Katherine Carter for Homepolish collection at The Inside is perfect for renters as well as apartment dwellers. The collection’s pieces are small-scale and also include removable wallpapers that are perfect for dressing up a wall and taking it down when moving out.

Here’s a look at The Inside’s new Katherine Carter for Homepolish collection:

modern platform beds

The  Modern Platform Bed, shown in Black Sybil is $799 & up (depending on size), features brass legs. It’s also available in other Katherine Carter textiles. All images: The Inside

The Katherine Carter for Homepolish at The Inside

Katherine Carter’s Marble print is available as a 20″ throw pillow with down insert for $49.

The Katherine Carter for Homepolish at The Inside Mid-Century furniture

Turned legs and tufted buttons give this 48″ Mid-Century Bench in Black Fracture fabric, $345, a vintage modern look.

The Katherine Carter for Homepolish at The Inside

A perfectly tailored Square Pouf in Marble, $249, would be perfect as an occasional table, extra seat or footstool.

Katherine Carter for Homepolish at The Inside bench

The Modern Bench, shown in White Sybil, $399, features the same 70s-style brass legs as the Modern Platform bed.

removable wallpapers for apartment

The Marble Removable Wallpaper, $129 and Cocktail Chair, $399 make a great pairing in a small sitting area.

What’s your favorite piece and pattern from Katherine Carter’s new collection? Let us know in the comments.

The post Check Out The Inside’s New Katherine Carter for Homepolish Collection appeared first on Freshome.com.

Everything You Need to Know About Using Textiles in Interior Design

Too often in interior design, textiles are seen as an afterthought. People view them as a finishing touch rather than a crucial component of the design as a whole. In reality, however, you can’t design a room without them.

That’s why we’ve dedicated this piece to textiles. Read on to learn how they contribute to a room and how to use them in the right way. We hope you gain a new appreciation for your home’s fabrics.

what

The term “textile” refers to anything in the room woven or made of fabric. Image: DHD Architecture and Interior Design

What are textiles?

In interior design, the term “textile” refers to any product that’s woven or made of fabric. It may sound simple, but these pieces are used in a variety of applications throughout any room. You can see them in design elements, such as:

why

Textiles help set the mood for the space. Image: Relativity Textiles

Why textiles matter

Textiles go a long way toward helping set the mood of a space. Imagine how different it would feel to stand in a bedroom that’s draped in silk and velvet than a living area that’s mainly made up of bamboo and cotton. When buying your textiles, you should consider the type of mood that you want to portray in each space and choose your fabrics accordingly.

Textiles also work to unify the room and help bring the space together. This is where your color palette comes into play. Once you have one in mind, you can take one or two of the colors – usually your secondary and accent shades – and use them in various textiles throughout the room.

Take the photo above as an example. Here, the faux-fur gives the room a glamorous and feminine feel. Since it’s white, it ties in with the walls, the bedding, and the furniture to help the room feel cohesive. Meanwhile, the patterned throw pillow in the center of the bed adds a pop of contrast to keep the space from feeling too boring and repetitive. Notice that the pattern on the pillow has a little dark gray in it. This ensures that the pillow still ties in with the rest of the room.

textiles

Follow these tips on using textiles in your interior design. Image: Laura U, Inc.

How to use textiles

Now that you know what textiles are and why they’re so important to your design, the next step is to learn how to use them correctly. Below is a list of tips to help get you started.

Use them as inspiration

Textiles may seem like accessories or the last design elements to purchase but they’re actually the opposite. They can serve as the inspiration for the space, providing a color palette upon which to build the room. When you’re not sure where to start with a room, turn to a rug, accent chair or even a throw pillow to give you a sense of direction.

Mix patterns, not colors

Once you have your color palette in place, stick to it. Using too many colors in a room can make it feel hectic and confusing. That said, it doesn’t mean your room has to be boring. You can still add plenty of visual interest to the space by mixing patterns. Make an effort to use multiple patterns  — and solids — that fall within the same palette.

Layer textures

Another way to add visual interest to the space is by using textiles that come in a variety of textures. Remember, in this case, texture refers to the way in which the fabric looks like it feels. Try mixing and matching different textures throughout the room or even layering them together in order to create a sense of contrast.

Let us know what textiles inspire you and how you incorporate them into your designs.

The post Everything You Need to Know About Using Textiles in Interior Design appeared first on Freshome.com.

Enjoy Sweet Dreams With These DIY Headboard Ideas

A headboard is one of the last things you see before you fall asleep and one of the first things you see when you wake up. Demonstrate your unique design style by creating your own. Below are some ideas and tips to get you started.

chalk headboard

Do you think the formula for sleep is on this London bedroom’s headboard? Image: Clifton Interiors Ltd

Chalk headboard

Create this look with a can of black chalkboard paint. Almost any type of wall – drywall, plaster, wood, brick or concrete – will work, as long is it is properly prepped. Chalkboard paint is easy to apply, dries fast and can be cleaned with soap and water. But you’re not limited to the color black – chalkboard paint comes in just about every color. If you don’t want to use paint, consider chalkboard contact paper – and yes, you can use chalk on it.

hockey headboard

An Edmonton hockey-themed room. Image: Cameron Homes

Hockey goal headboard

For the ultimate hockey fan, nothing beats a hockey goal headboard. Complete the scene with a team blanket and life-size decal of a favorite player. Peel and stick decals are easy to apply and available for most major sports. In addition to decals of players, fans can also get team logo decals.

wallpaper headboard

A simply elegant Dorset, England, bedroom uses wallpaper behind the bed. Image: Farrow & Ball

Wallpaper headboard

This Silvergate wallpaper from Farrow & Ball creates a simple yet elegant headboard. The wallpaper is applied directly to the wall. For such an intricate pattern, the company recommends sketching the left side of the headboard in pencil and then cutting it out to use as a template for the right side. This ensures that the two sides are symmetrical. Be sure to prep the wall by removing all dirt, filling any cracks and sanding the wall smooth.

wood headboard

This Sydney, Australia, bedroom is full of surprises. Image: Capital Building

Floating laminate floor headboard

This beautiful headboard is actually a floating laminate floor placed on the wall to mimic a recycled wood wall. While the front and sides of the wall are laminate flooring, the back is plasterboard. The two bedside tables and the faux fireplace are actually painted medium density fiberboards (MDF).

graffiti headboard

This Toronto bedroom is artistic and colorful. Image: Meghan Carter Design, Inc.

Graffiti headboard

Turn your headboard into a work of art. This graffiti design is certainly colorful and creative. For the graffiti look you can also spray paint text on faux brick wallpaper. Use solid vinyl unpasted wallpaper as it’s peelable and easily cleaned. Another idea is to use a large printed tapestry that can be hung on the wall or wrapped around a piece of wood or MDF.

dramatic headboard

This Orlando master bedroom is dramatic, yet relaxing. Image: Studio KW Photography

Frame molding headboard

To create this elegant look, cut molding to the desired size and then drill the pieces to the wall. Molding is available in wood, polystyrene (which is a hard plastic) and MDF. You can then paint the cut molding any color. Molding creates architectural detail and defines each area.

wrought iron headboard

This New York beach house is light and airy. Image: Serenity Design

Wrought iron headboard

Wrought iron headboards are beautiful – and expensive. However, you can find wrought iron railing at flea markets, online and at places that sell outdoor furniture and fences. Unlike some other types of headboard material, wrought iron is durable and easy to clean. While wrought iron is available in a variety of patterns, none of them are bulky, which is an advantage in small spaces.

map headboard

This Mumbai bedroom is stylish and exotic. Image: SAGA Design Architects

Global headboard

The floor-to-ceiling world map in this bedroom serves as the headboard and the focal piece. The map also pulls all of the colors in the room together (including the red pumps on the floor). This type of wall mural requires a smooth surface. In lieu of using a primer, flat latex paint is best for creating the right surface. You’ll also need to mix and apply paste to each panel before hanging.

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The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Reveals What’s Trending

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) tracks yearly trends through its Best in American Living award winners and its Design Trends Roundtable. Alexandra Isham, Program Manager for Design at the NAHB, let Freshome in on some of the trends the organization has observed.

The lines are blurring between commercial and residential applications.

industrial features

Industrial features add to the beauty of this Seattle home. Image: Laurence Architecture

Materials are being used interchangeably in commercial and residential products, according to Isham. “A couple of examples include metal and wire railing systems in single-family houses, even ones with more traditional details where we would normally expect wood,” she says. “Another example is exposed metal beams, even in smaller cottages, that are tastefully incorporated.”

Isham explains that these are the kinds of details normally seen in trendy retail settings and other types of commercial spaces.

Mid-century modern takes a back seat.

Mid-century modern

This San Francisco kitchen combines form and function. Image: Fiorella Design

Transitional design blends traditional and contemporary architecture – and we’re seeing more of it. It’s also known as trans-contemporary, and incorporates aesthetics and function. “There should be a rhyme and reason to the shapes, as opposed to just being ‘modern,’’’ Isham says of transitional design. The NAHB has also noticed that there’s less of a focus on mid-century modern.

Less is more.

Less is more

Clean, simple style in a Chicago bathroom. Image: Bigane Construction Company

Clean and simple lines and detailing are in. However, Isham says that homebuyers still like traditional details. Another trend on the outs: rounded corners on drywall are becoming less popular.

Open floor plans gain definition.

Open floor plans

There are clearly-defined areas in this open concept floor plan. Image: Arthur Dyson Architects

While open floor plans are still the most popular choice among homebuyers, they want more definition between the spaces. “This can be achieved by altering ceiling heights or adding ceiling details like finishes or lighting, columns, a change in flooring type or direction, etc.,” Isham says.

“The beauty of open plans is that they can respond to the site conditions and needs and wants of the buyer.” For example, she says a living/family room can be placed at the front or the rear of a home. “Our members are also increasingly asked to include flex spaces in their plans that can be quickly converted to an office, extra seating, a craft room, a playroom, etc.”

Open floor plan2

This Austin home also has a clearly defined open floor plan. Image: Triton Austin

Isham says ceiling treatments are also being used to define spaces. “Another way to define separate areas is by using lighting, especially pendant light fixtures,” she says.

Formal dining rooms return.

Formal dining room

Surely this beautiful Manhattan dining room makes the food taste even better. Image: Robert Kaner Interior Design

Opinions are mixed on formal living rooms. However, Isham says formal dining rooms are making a comeback for two reasons. First, weekend chefs love to cook and entertain friends and family members. Secondly, large families and multigenerational families living in the same house are fueling the rising popularity of formal dining rooms.

Other trends.

Other trends

Wood and metal – always a good combination. Image: Ballantyne Design Associates

Isham is seeing more metal and wood on home exteriors, and shades of beige are also popular. “However, I don’t think that there is any one façade that defines single-family housing in the US – the regions, buyers and design aesthetics are so diverse that there’s really something for everyone.” Mixed materials are trending, but she says there are also a lot of traditional designs.  “Board and batten is very popular in some parts of the country, stone and wood in others.”

Shiplap

Shiplap reigns in this lakefront country estate in Greenville, SC. Image: Markalunas Architecture Group

“We’re seeing shiplap everywhere,” Isham says. “More detailed and unique tile patterns are also trending, from adding more interest to a kitchen backsplash to incorporating interesting geometry on a bathroom floor.”

Among flooring options, she says luxury plank vinyl is extremely trendy and wood remains a popular choice.

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