Archive for the ‘Design Inspiration’ Category

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Contemporary Black and Chrome bedrooms…

Saturday, April 14th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

Black might not be everyone’s first colour choice when it comes to bedroom décor, and yet with the addition of brighter colour accents and interesting textures, an eminently sophisticated room mood becomes possible for a gritty urban theme or a stylish boudoir. Add chrome or nickel furniture and accessories into the mix, to create the perfect contrast for a look that is sleek and ultra- stylish, for modern minimalist room themes where one or two accent furniture pieces set the tone for the room space as a whole. For here undoubtedly, less is most definitely more, with a monochromatic approach to room design, or with colour accents for a less masculine flavour.

Consider an all-black scheme if the room is large with good natural light, although in smaller spaces or apartment bedrooms you may prefer to limit the backdrop to just one accent wall at the head of the bed. Neutral colours such as white, cream, beige or light grey will all make suitable partners for black and chrome schemes, in the form of contrasting wall and ceiling colour, soft furnishings and bed linens. Lighter colour wallpapers in natural fibres can also work in this environment, whilst steely metal cladding for a distinctly industrial feel will deliver an assertive streamlined message.

Allow chrome furniture designs to establish the sophisticated mood. A sensual chrome bedstead design with matching bedside tables, would create the perfect room focal point when displayed against that black backdrop wall, from which the room can draw inspiration. Desks, occasional tables and contemporary chairs finished in chrome will also work fabulously within such a room setting, and particularly so within larger bedrooms, with chrome wall sconces flanking the bed. Chrome four poster bedstead options are also worth considering whenever space and budgets allow, with other chrome accents such as a chrome framed mirror or picture frames continuing the theme. For a different stance, metal or wooden furniture in black finishescan also sit happily alongside chrome designs, such as a modern black low-rise metal bedstead dressed in contrasting fabrics and bed throws, like creamy coloured linens and a black comforter, or one that features black patterned detailing. Because black can overpower, some brighter colour might also add some visual relief and interest here, such as pale gold, beige and lighter shades of blue, grey, green and yellow in solid or patterned designs.

Complete the room design with window treatments that echo or match the style of bedding that you have chosen. If you have a larger than average bedroom, and you decided against using black for most or all of the walls, you may like to use a black fabric for the window dressings, or alternatively continue lighter wall colour selections with similarly coloured curtains for a coherent, uniform look. This will also have the effect of making the bedroom appear larger. Additionally, using a sensual fabric such as silk for the window dressings and matching pillow shams or decorative cushions, will add a different dimension of texture to the room space that perfectly harmonises with those enticing chrome elements and accessories…

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White on white bedroom themes…

Thursday, April 5th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

It’s easy to be deterred by the concept of a monochromatic bedroom scheme that by and large lacks any colour accents, relying instead on other stimuli to make a statement. There’s no shortage of décor tips to be discovered out there to ensure success if you are decided upon this decorative path and what they will almost certainly unanimously conclude is that it is the interaction of the textures and room elements that will bring this room scheme to life. For it is the careful selection of antique and vintage furniture here together with fabric and décor accents that is key to the task of creating a tranquil and dreamy getaway that is anything but boring or sterile.

A family of furniture within this room setting need not all be of the same genre, but the mix and how they interact with each other is the catalyst for the scheme as a whole. An eclectic jumble of furniture styles actually is to be encouraged where the mix of designs and textures takes the place of incorporating a variety of colours for visual interest. Do not be afraid then to bring in furniture from different periods, where for example, an old white occasional table might be complimented by a pair of white weathered metal chairs. Look for items that tell a story with intricately carved pieces sitting alongside those with cleaner lines. Place an old wicker hope chest at the foot of an antique wooden four poster bed, or choose an original or reproduction traditional iron bed in white or ivory finish to create the room focal point, flanked by white wicker nightstands for charming style contrast. In other words, the underlying white on white decorating success tip, is that it is the similar white accents that will make the theme cohesive, whilst varying the character and texture of the pieces will ensure a stylish feel.

Choice of lighting style and intensity is crucial in a monochromatic room setting; it’s an element that can make or break the design. Look out for antique chandeliers that can be easily rewired for romance and drama. Even if you can only find examples in black or gold, a can of white spray will soon fix that, and look for the lines within the piece as well as the embellishments that it features .Does it fit in with the overall persona of the room and are the proportions in tune? Apply the same philosophy to bedside lamps and wall sconces, and don’t forget the simple appeal of candles as an enticing lighting alternative whenever the mood dictates. Track down some old cut glass crystal candlesticks and line a vintage dresser or wall shelf with a cluster of candles at varying heights.

Within this room scheme, artwork should not deviate from the black and white style. To inject a personal touch make copies of old family monochrome photographs that evoke pleasant memories. School photos, wedding snaps, holiday adventures and old family photos are all appropriate. Newer memories in colour can easily be reprocessed into black and white vintage style patina photographs, whilst other artwork options include winter scenes and more contemporary photos that contain scenes of only white images.

Finalise the room theme with appropriate accessories, the hunting down of which, is part of the enjoyment of pulling the look together as a whole. This is where there is chance to introduce real interest to the room. For example, a favourite collection of porcelain angels could be displayed on a glass or white painted wooden shelf, whilst antique arcades and thrift stores are great places to track down vases, wash basins, decorative plates, and other pieces in white hues. But no matter what pieces you choose to incorporate, the essential factor here is that the room elements, from the style of furniture that you love, to your selection of accents, all showcase your unique personality, for a supremely classy room setting that is enticing and splendidly romantic…

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Ethnic style bedroom décor…

Thursday, March 29th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

There’s a certain restrained elegance about ethnic décor which is exotic without relying on over-styling. The look is achieved by incorporating specific aspects of this distinct culture style by way of colour, accessories and furniture and textures. The room need not be a theme room in entirety but should at the very least reflect accurately the ethnic aesthetic desired by the room occupants. With this decorating style, less is most definitely more. Incorporating a few dramatic ethnic pieces, because they are unique and unusual, will make a much bolder statement than similar generic pieces.

Start the project with a clean slate, remove everything from the room, and use such sources as magazine reference and internet research to introduce the colours and style for the bedroom. Ethnic style seldom includes wall to wall carpet, but rather favours darker bare hardwoods with perhaps some sisal area rugs or ethnic style rugs for comfort. Extend the look to the walls, with perhaps a texture if you choose to emulate stucco and add muted colour with wall and ceiling paint. Neutral tones are the way forwards here and the ceiling treatment should be in a similar tonal range as that used on the walls. If you opt to faux paint the walls for the illusion of texture, select a neutral lighter colour and apply that to the ceiling.

Identify the focal point. This will either be the window wall, or more likely the bed head wall, as almost without exception the bed is going to dominate the room, in turn providing inspiration for the décor theme as a whole. Plan walking paths between any doors and windows so that the bed does not intrude, but allows access to all areas that require freedom of movement. Position the bed accordingly and select a style that reflects the ethnic aesthetic. Low platform style wooden beds with clean lines are a sound choice as are traditionally styled beds that incorporate leather or wrought iron detailing. Rustic iron bed designs are also in keeping here, with wooden four poster bed creations appropriate for more glamorous room settings, draped with sheer fabrics for a hint of intrigue.

Should you decide to allow the window wall to be the focal point, or if the room configuration dictates that it is so, then consider a window-width pelmet with distinct ethnic shape and detailing. This is particularly relevant for Moorish type keyhole effects which can be created from wood and painted or covered in appropriate fabric designs. Place a low ethnic style bench underneath the window for added effect and practicality.

Position an ethnic style rug to lie at the foot of the traditional bed or emerge from under the foot of the bed to catch the eye as you enter the room. For added drama you might choose to angle it, and include a couple of bedside tables to flank the bed and introduce a sense of visual balance. Likewise a wooden wide and low dresser with plain simple lines would look the part positioned against an open wall, with cultural prints hung in a symmetrical arrangement above. The trick here is to keep the room set looking elegant and spacious and free of clutter. Should you have a collection of objects to display, group them together on a small tray rather than scattering about the room. In the same vein, allow cultural elements to pop against a neutral background. They are most likely to possess strong colour, pattern and shape identities, so feature these differences. Avoid dark walls unless the room is very large and rotate your cultural collections by displaying different pieces at different seasons throughout the year, retiring pieces to storage periodically.

Finalise the room scheme and add a touch of comfort, with ethnic textiles on accent pillows and cushions, but once again, with restraint. Consider positioning one single larger ethnic art piece or fabric accent over theheadboard or netting for an enticing draped effect. Simply styled bedside lamps will look the part on ornate nightstands, with more ornamental lamps in keeping if your bedside tables are simple and plain. Include one key decorative accent statuary on the low dresser and some strategic plant displays for an earthy natural flavour.

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Nautical bedroom themes…

Friday, March 16th, 2012

Nautical home décor might not be to all tastes, but for those with a penchant for the ocean or an affinity with sailing, it can evoke grand images of grand maritime adventures within a décor style that is a little different to the mainstream norm. So whether you are decorating a coastal home with the ocean on your doorstep, or a landlocked home in the suburbs, it is not difficult to incorporate this theme within the bedroom. The seaside images that accompany this room style can be very soothing, and thus particularly suited to a relaxed bedroom mood, whilst the more adventurous accents and accessories keep it interesting, to appeal to both him and her alike.

Incorporate nautical colours into the design which run through all elements of the room. Quintessential nautical inspired shades include the obvious; namely blue and white but might also include red as an accent colour. Using the patterns and hues in your bedding selection as inspiration, choose a blue shade or a white derivative that is appropriate for wall treatment. Paint all four walls navy blue or sky blue in a room where there is an abundance of natural light, or apply blue only to the bedhead wall if the room is small or a little gloomy. Accent the space with red and white pops of colour in subsequent layers of design, such as rugs, bed accessories and curtains, opting for darker rust red colour shades should you prefer.

For a room that is likely to have a crisp and clean appearance, pristine white furniture will harmonise perfectly with the nautical theme. Consider a focal point wooden bed in a painted white finish with wicker detailing or a romantic traditional iron bed straight out of the Victorian era for a touch of glamour and English charm. Darker wood bedstead styles will also work well against this backdrop, and a vintage style wooden bed in dark weathered oak, or indeed any type of antique finish, will inspire the room scheme as a whole and give the space a more lived-in flavour.

A nautical theme just begs for a collection of interesting accessories so include within your scheme a few wall mounted shelves or bookshelves to provide extra display space for decorative items and book collections. These will help to keep other surfaces such as bedside tables and dressers clutter-free. Include also wall paintings of sailboats or lighthouses or framed vintage nauticalor world maps. You may wish to display also a small collection of ornamental lighthouses or for a more natural look, display little collections of seashells, driftwood or pebbles in a jar. Antique arcades also make happy hunting grounds for nautical treasures. Look out for old ships clocks, navigation lights in brass casings, old oars and lobster pots, or even an antique brass porthole that you could convert into a mirror.

Bedding choice should tie in with the theme as a whole so keep your three main colours in mind and play with these until you come up with a combination that looks just right. It may be that you have already replicated the duvet colours for the wall treatment, but vertical navy and white stripes can work very well on the bed, and this simple design can be accented with throw pillows that incorporate varying shades of blue with touches of red here and there for good measure, or a rusty red bed runner at the foot of the bed to catch the eye…

Resist the temptation to go overboard(!) with trinkets and accessories, but instead allow a few accent treasures to do the talking. Enhance the room set with speciality lamps to cast a gentle glow, such as table lamps with boat rope detailing or weathered antique brass bases. Reproduction ships lanterns or originals, if you can track them down, can be converted for bedroom use or might accommodate some tea light candles for when the mood dictates. And lastly, ship style caged wall lights installed either side of a large dresser or flanking the traditional bedstead is a fabulous way to further accent and introduce a mellow nautical vibe into the room, without distracting the senses with too much visual clutter…

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More Mission style bedroom themes.

Friday, March 16th, 2012

The rustic Mission style bedroom finds devotees either side of the Atlantic, and beyond, with an earthy, somewhat masculine appeal that has particular relevance within bachelor bedroom schemes whenever a no-nonsense approach is desired. Mission style décor, also referred to as Craftsman style is the well- recognised American interpretation of furniture, architecture and design from the Arts and Crafts movement. Give any bedroom a Mission style makeover by bringing in period-appropriate elements and furnishings for a unique flavour that defies the conventional norm…

Colour choice is key here so invest time in a little research and select wall paints that evoke the Mission mood. Consider earthy shades such as tan, brown, gold, pumpkin, mossy green, rust, or apricot if you are striving for a warm palette (great for bedroom schemes), or try sage, lilac, berry, or blue-green if you prefer a cooler vibe. Whichever flavour you opt for, go with muted rather than brighter shades for an authentic look.

Add a stately bed as the perfect room focal point inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement, either as an original if you can track one down, or in reproduction form for an equally authentic look and well-planted presence. Appropriate choices are wooden bedstead creations with straight lines and a somewhat heavy feel, lacking in any ostentatious ornamentation. Consider also a panel wooden bed, or a Prairie bed design that features slatted timber between thick square corner posts. Choose classic quartersawn oak if possible, or consider cherry, walnut, or maple as an option in a medium to dark finish.

Dress your choice of traditional bedstead with a mix of neutral solids and stylized repeating patterned fabrics, such as those by Liberty or William Morris. Avoid fussy ruffles, pleats and flounces, keeping everything simple, and don’t use a bed valance unless the bed style demands it. Simple plain duvet covers and matching pillows will allow the bed design to shine through without distracting from the self-assured design message. And likewise furnish the rest of the room with bedside tables, and a dresser or a chest that complements the character of the bed, although they need not be an exact match. Look out for iron or copper hinges, and knobs and drawer pulls with a rustic hand forged appearance. Stick with clean –lined that emphasise fine timbers and judicious craftsmanship, with some style-appropriate carving or simple inlay should you desire.

Window treatments should be true to the theme with simple curtain panels made from cotton, linen, or wool in neutral colours for an authentic feel. Add visual interest by embroidering the hems with a geometric pattern, or go with a curvier, stylized stencil design, influenced by the bed fabrics. Hang curtains on narrow brass or iron rods, and show off Mission-worthy woodwork by mounting the rods inside the window frame with barrel brackets, or gooseneck brackets if you choose an outside mount.

Incorporate bedside lamps with wooden, iron, or copper bases and choose shades made from mica or stained leaded glass. Ceiling lighting fixtures should complement, and consider framing nature-inspired artwork, such as vintage illustrations from a botanical book, to hang on the walls or over the wooden bedstead. Finish of the room theme with a flourish of simple accents and accessories, such as a collection of southwestern pottery and a trio of hand-forged iron candlesticks and pillar candles.

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Retro Orange…in the bedroom

Tuesday, March 13th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

Make space for orange! Ok, so it’s not everyone’s favourite colour choice and in the bedroom you might worry that it’s going to keep you awake all night, but actually a few orange accents aren’t just a refreshing fruity change from other splashes of bright colour, but they can actually make the room feel really warm and inviting. It’s also a great cheap and quick way to freshen up a room when you don’t want or aren’t able to paint the walls. So here are just a few quick thoughts about adding some orange interest that is soothing yet still inviting…

Orange is increasingly popular for contemporary room styles and evokes a retro vibe that we associate with the 1950s and 60s. You may track down a sleek orange chair for a reading nook at a junk store or garage sale or invest in some scatter pillows for the bed or a bed runner for a splash of summery colour at the foot of the bed. Orange and white linens mixed together introduces a crisp feel to the room without even needing to lift a paintbrush. Just make sure that you use orange as an accent feature against white or creamy shades so that it really stands out.

Think rustic, and go for darker orange tones for a more traditional touch with a continental twist. A deep terracotta colour is always associated with Spanish design and forms a great backdrop for antique dark oak furniture or a traditional wooden bedstead in cherry wood, walnut or mahogany. This colour also looks great with all kinds of rustic ironwork or forged metals or a Victorian style iron bed in textured black or any dark finish. Continue the Spanish theme whenever you have walls that feature heavy outdated texturing or imperfections, as terra cotta simulates stucco with surprising ease.

Get in touch with nature and natural materials with gentler orange hues. After all, orange doesn’t need to scream in your face. To warm up a room simply pick furniture crafted from woods that have an orange patina. Many mid- century pieces had this characteristic, and as most people tend to favour darker oak furniture or light woods at the other extreme, these pieces with their orange tones can often be picked up inexpensively. That way you can enjoy quality hardwood furniture for the same price that others are paying for veneered or compressed laminate lookalikes.

Bring in accents with antique copper or brass pieces or a romantic brass bedstead where budgets allow. Old vintage kettles, jugs and trinkets in these metals look particularly at home in a room where orange accents are making a décor statement, with landscape oils and prints that pick up on the orange theme, also bringing a pleasant orange twist to the mix. Take macro pictures of orange autumn leaves for inexpensive but effective contemporary artwork to brighten up a dull winter day with a mini mountain of orange patterned scatter cushions to liven up a gloomy corner and provide a great relaxation area for reading and lounging…

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Exotic Chinese bedroom themes.

Wednesday, March 7th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

Timeless Chinese décor lends itself perfectly for use within the bedroom with beautiful and exotic room schemes that draw on Chinas rich culture, history and tradition. At its very simplest, Chinese décor can be ascetic and modest or far more elaborate in design, but one thing that is common whatever the style, is that the elements of the room must work together in harmony to create a calm and peaceful environment. With a close attention to detail, and careful selection of colours, textures and room accents, comfortable and inspiring room sets are possible that calm the senses and eclipse the stresses of the day.

Do a little research on the internet and by trawling through Interior magazines for inspiration to select a pleasing colour palette for the room. Traditional colours used in Chinese décor are symbolic: red for good luck, yellow for long life, green for peace and harmony, purple for spirituality, and browns, ranging from light tans to rich mahoganies, for grounding. A bold wall colour is appropriate here although lighter neutral tones might be better suited to the bedroom theme. Combine with tapestries and screens as an authentic alternative.

Chinese style furniture is traditionally low and boxy with clean lines and would often be mixed with ornamental pieces for impact. Dressers, trunks, benches, occasional tables and chairs, are all in their element here, whilst a low modern beds, platform style finished in a light wood or a contemporary metal bed design will form the perfect focal point within the room scheme. High gloss oil painted or lacquered furniture offers a sleek look and is always very popular, as are high-backed elaborately carved wooden chairs, or a grand ornamental headboard featuring mother of pearl or gold inlays, as an alternative to the platform bed option.

Add texture to the room with natural woods such as bamboo, and traditional fabrics such as silk. A silk or bamboo screen is the perfect addition to any Chinese themed room, and embroidered fabrics with a mixture of contrasting colours featuring traditional Chinese designs such as dragons, peacocks or flowers, will always look the part. Incorporate such designs in the form of wall hangings, area rugs, throw cushions and bed and table runners. Allow the theme as a whole to be illuminated naturally with simple window treatments, such as bamboo shades or carved wooden shutters, whilst for added ambiance, include some Chinese lanterns to hang within the room.

Avoidthe temptation to clutter the space or crowd it with furniture. A minimalist approach is the way forward here. Instead pick a few interesting pieces that relate to each other in terms of style, colour and materials or that incorporate the Chinese designs described above. Each piece should have a specific purpose so don’t squeeze in any more than you need. Strive for symmetry, balanced colours and evenly placed furniture and accessories, so that each piece makes an impact in the area where it is sited.

Finally, add accessories that carry the theme through, such as wall hangings that feature scenes from Chinese mythology, delicate bamboo umbrellas, a large fan, or Buddha statues. High gloss pottery or granite carved pieces can also work well, but whatever you select, go for quality rather than quantity. One large accent wall tapestry or a single colourful dragon statue placed prominently on a low occasional table where it catches the light, is far more effective than lots of little trinkets scattered about. Achieve the perfect balance of colour, texture and furnishing harmony, for results that are wonderful on the eye,creating  a welcome place of calm away from the pressures of the day…

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Parisian themed bedrooms on a budget…

Tuesday, March 6th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

If you’re in the market for a romantic bedroom theme with a Gallic twist that won’t break the bank, a Parisian themed makeover might just be the perfect solution. As with most room makeovers the key to success is getting the colour, accessory and furniture mix just right, and black and white is always a safe choice when it comes to the former. Opt for a soft warm white or ivory if you can, with a few gold accents to up the haute couture temperature. Incorporate faux architectural details that evoke classic urban French design, and accessorise with lace, roses and toile prints; in fact anything with a Gallic accent to create a bedroom that is straight out of the pages of a classic Parisian novel.

Choose a warm tone for the walls, and ivory, beige or tan make a great backdrop for black and white colour accents and fabrics. For an ultra- feminine retreat, incorporate sensual accents of pink such as pardon moi, peche or faded rose shades, before marrying them up with black and ivory companion fabrics on the bed, within window dressings or upholstered furniture. You can save money by buying smaller amounts of fabric online or from remnant shops. Toile is a fabulous fabric choice and refers to fabrics that have an all-over pastoral print. Black and white striped ticking or checks, lace, natural linen, or even silk moire in solid black or ivory, can all be mixed and matched together, whilst an ivory matelassé bedspread atop an antique iron bed frame will complement toile pillow shams.

Even if budgets are tight it’s always worth pushing the boat out a little when it comes to your choice of bed. If you already have a wooden bedframe or metal bedstead that is appropriate to the room scheme, then the choice may already be made for you, but if not a delicate wrought iron or vintage Victorian  metal bed-frame with lots of curvy detailing will be the perfect centrepiece for any such room style and the focal point from which the remainder of the room scheme can draw inspiration. An antique original bedstead might be an expensive purchase, and yet classic reproductions look just asauthentic as well as being more practical and constructed to modern day sizes and stability standards. If you prefer, trawling through second hand stores and antique parades might unearth a treasure or two that requires refurbishment should you feel so inclined, and likewise old wrought iron patio furniture might be the cheapest source of accent furniture pieces for the bedroom scheme. Black or white painted furniture with gold highlights is typical of French furnishings and a look that is relatively easy to achieve, or you may prefer a slightly softer look by upholstering a headboard cut from plywood with the same material as one of your fabric selections. Make sure to incorporate some curves into the design and finished any padded headboard with black gimping or cord for a professional finish.

Save on extra costs by breathing new life into any comfy old chair that suits you. As long as it is structurally sound and the padding is serviceable you can make it room –ready with a simple slipover, and white duck is so simple it can be used almost anywhere. For the more adventurous a full reupholster might be very rewarding using black velvet fabric, or a black and white toile print or stripe, sure to look the part.

Track down a small wrought iron or wire table, with a glass or marble top for use as a bedside table and continue the theme with a battered old French provincial dining chair which you can refurbish with a coat of paint and then cover the seat with one of the room fabrics to use at the vanity table or when dressing. Look out for black wire or cast metal lamp bases at bric a brac or discount stores and finish off with black or ivory toile shades for a romantic touch on the bedside tables or to illuminate the dressing table. Decorate the walls with moody monochrome prints of Paris scenes or oil paintings in appropriate style. Add some throw pillows for a final French flourish and a splash of comfort with perhaps a pink mohair throw for the bed and a pale silk rose in a bud vase for a touch of charm by the bedside…

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French bedroom décor style…

Saturday, March 3rd, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

The décor and characteristics of the bedroom have a huge impact on our sense of well-being, moods and how we feel as we embark on a new day. For a soft and feminine flavour, tinged with romance, a bedroom styled with French accents and colour may be all that you need to strike the right balance of charm and comfort. Typical French décor varies greatly in terms of texture, colour palettes and overall design so there is normally a bedroom mood to suit all tastes and budgets. Just get ready to prepare yourself for making some deliciously difficult decisions…

Establish the mood with colour and spend some time pouring over paint charts, the internet, and home design magazines to choose some soft tones that evoke true Gallic style. Typical French colour palettes lean towards neutral beige tones with golden accents, or faded pink and rose shades. Gentle blues and greens are also in keeping, whilst for a more modern urban flavour you may wish to consider more dark dramatic colours such as burgundy or dark brown.

Incorporate these tones into the room in the form of not only wall and ceiling treatments but also within upholstery and fabrics for a balanced cohesive flavour that sits easily on the eye and allows for diversity in terms of furniture and accessory selections.

Furniture is the key to establishing a French room style once the colour selection is established, with the bed taking centre stage, creating a mood from which the remainder of the room can draw inspiration. French furniture pieces typically include much crafted from cherrywood or walnut and sometimes a mixture of ivory and wood. Wooden furniture is often grand and well planted and antique or distressed finishing is universally popular.  A large wooden bedstead crafted from cherry wood is the epitome of French style. Sleigh beds or lit bateaux style beds have been popular in France for centuries and remain so today. Should space be tight you may wish to opt for a large wooden carved headboard rather than go all the way with a space stealing wooden bed , but remember that everything is about grandeur so ideally most furniture pieces should be big, bold and beautiful. To bring further furniture style to the room you might include a wooden armoire or chest of drawers and include a tall floor length free-standing mirror for more drama. If the room is small it will make it appear larger, whilst if it is already large, just think that bigger is better. For extra French verve where space allows, incorporate a chaise longue in the room, against a wall or at the foot of the traditional bedstead, or place a silk privacy screen that matches your colour palette in a corner of the room to soften up the overall feel.

Linens and window dressings complete the scheme, and if you are choosing to work with beige and gold as the backdrop colours, make sure that your linens are silk, toile or lace in the same colour spectrum. If you decide upon a more contemporary approach then satin accents in deeper hues are very effective and will harmonise well with those burgundy or brown colour schemes. As for spicing up the bed décor, incorporating large plush pillows is very dramatic and ties in well with the oversized stance of the room theme.

Draperies should reach from ceiling to floor, and should the top of your windows not reach to the ceiling, you can create over-height valances that give the impression that they do. Stick with colour hues that are the same as the bed linen selection to keep the colour theme in check and harmony.

Lighting creates those all-important moody touches, particularly relevant if you desire a soft romantic ambiance, and after dark when they are the only light source it is essential to get the lighting intensity and balance just right. Installing a gorgeous chandelier in the centre of the ceiling is not only perfectly in keeping with the inviting French theme, but adds great style as the glass crystals reflect the light onto the ceiling and bathe the whole room with gentle illumination to calm the senses and set the mood…

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Floral bedroom designs

Wednesday, February 29th, 2012

Beds | Mattresses | Linens

Floral themes are never out of vogue either on the catwalk or within home décor schemes, and are particularly relevant within the bedroom where they bring a soft romantic touch to the room space. A floral decorating motif can stand alone in its own right or be used to enhance a garden theme, recreate an English country home or Art Nouveau style, or perhaps introduce a little Victorian whimsy. Regardless of your purpose, with the creative use of decorative elements, including colour, materials and patterns, it’s possible to mix and match the floral aesthetic in the bedroom for a look that is both inviting and inspirational.

Select your bedroom’s theme and the décor statement that you are looking to make. Although it’s perfectly acceptable to embrace a floral theme as the overall design content, deciding on a decorating style that that utilises flowers as a primary element of the room character will help to narrow down the type of flowers that you wish to feature as well as the supporting decorative accents associated with that style.

Consider covering the walls with a floral patterned wallpaper or decoupage design. Whilst wallpaper has the advantage of being a ready- made element which saves time, it can be overwhelming unless used with restraint whilst the decoupage option allows for a more personal look or to recreate a pattern or floral style that you cannot find elsewhere. Team your floral walls with a soft complementary floral patterned curtain set, while for a less busy look opt for plain curtains that pick up on the colours of other floral accents within the room. If you so desire replicate the material in the form of a bed valance or bedside table covers.

Create a charming country house style focal point in the room with a Victorian inspired iron bed with antique brass detailing or a vintage panelled wooden bedstead crafted from cherrywood, dark oak or walnut. Whatever your choice, cover it with a flower bedecked bedspread or comforter, but consider the size and style of the flower motif and how it will contribute to the room style overall when making the purchase. For example, large blooms will convey that quintessential English country home feeling, whilst smaller floral designs hint at folk or shabby chic ambiance.

Mix and match floral patterns to be found on decorative accessories displayed within the room, such as floral patterned pillows on the traditional bed or embroidered cushions set on a coffer or bench at the foot of the bed. Lay a large floral-patterned area rug on the floor, to the side or at the foot of the bed, and should your room be lucky or old enough to feature a fireplace, decorate it with a vase of fresh flowers on the hearth, at either end of the mantel, or in wall vases above the fireplace.

Add those final decorative touches in the form of small accent items like light switch plates, dresser and wardrobe porcelain handles and bedside table lamp shades. These are easy to track down in most department or home improvement stores or antique arcades for an original authentic touch…

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