Summer is the time to eat outside, spend time in the backyard with friends and family and enjoy the best of the weather. It's also a time most of us chose to renew your garden furniture. Unless you have one already, you'll need to invest in a table and chairs with an umbrella. Which outdoors furniture is the most durable? Do the table and chairs have to match, and when is the best time to invest in new outdoor furniture? We'll also consider which material is best for patio furniture.
All Weather
Aluminum is the best material for outdoor furniture as it stays rust-free for longer than other metals and if it's powder coated, it will be even better protected against the elements. It's also lightweight and doesn't need much maintenance. Resin wicker is another option that's weather resistant. We're not talking about cane or rattan. The name comes from the woven style in which thin strands of nylon, PVC or polyethylene are wrapped over a metal frame.
Easy Care
You could buy patio furniture at the lowest cost and find that it rusts away during the winter. You could also buy cheap aluminum furniture that doesn't rust away but looks bad due to oxidation. You need to consider both the purchase price and the cost of maintaining the furniture. Plastic furniture is low cost and low maintenance but it won't last as long as other types of furniture. How long do you want to keep the furniture? How much work are you willing to put into maintaining it and how much money do you have? Weigh up all these questions before spending out.
Lowest Cost
Plastic furniture is often the lowest cost patio table and chairs on the market. It's cheap and durable but it's also disposable. There's no danger that rain or pollen will destroy the furniture or even stain it. Saltwater won't affect it and it's the easiest to maintain. But it might become bleached by the sun over time and it's not eco-friendly, particularly if you throw it away after one or two seasons. Plastic chairs might warp over time so you won't be able to keep plastic patio furniture for long.
Places to Buy
Should you buy in-store or online? The selection in-store is normally more seasonal and you get to see and touch and sit on the furniture before buying it. You'll also get a better idea of how the furniture will fit into your garden space, both physically and aesthetically when you lay your eyes on it in a store. But you don't get as much choice. Online retailers have great returns policies so you'll buy with confidence. Check your local retailers first to get an idea of what's out there and then compare that with the furniture you find online before spending out.
Timing is Everything
You will be tempted to buy your patio furniture during June or July to make the most of the weather but if you can wait, you'll get a better deal later in the year. Patio furniture typically goes on sale from August. Between August and October, most stores will be selling their summer items cheaply to make space for their Christmas stock. The later you can leave it, the better the price will be. Expect to save 20 percent on the retail price in August and somewhere approaching 70 percent in late October.
Explore the different curtain styles that can beautify your windows as well as your decor
Curtains are more than just window dressing for the living room. The right design choice not only transforms your decor, it also provides privacy and controls natural light. Be they sheer, cafe or even blackout curtains, here are some ideas on choosing the right curtain style for your living room.
Sheer curtains As indicated by their name, sheer curtains are quite transparent and lend an airy and spacious feel to a room. You can control the level of sheerness by choosing thicker fabrics or deeper hues. They come in different fabrics like silk, net or even lace, plain or patterned. In this space, black self-embossed fabric has been used to cover the curved windows.
A full-length translucent fabric will not obstruct the view but will gently dim the harsh sunlight that streams into your room on a scorching summer day.
Blackout curtains Blackout curtains are not black in colour but are called so because of their ability to stop any light from passing through. Made from foam-backed opaque materials, they can instantly transform day into night. And that's not all, they can also help control noise levels and work as insulators – keeping the heat trapped in winters and light out in summers. In this space, sheer curtains have been combined with blue blackout curtains.
Tip: Blackout curtains are great for bedrooms if you are finicky about the amount of sunlight you want to allow in early in the morning. They also work well for rooms with a television or for home theatres.
Flat panel curtains Flat panel curtains are unlined curtains, usually patterned, with slight gathers. Made of cotton, linen or similar light-weight fabrics, they are low maintenance and and can be washed in your machine. In this space, a newspaper-print curtain in monochrome shades of black and grey has been used. And thanks to the solid digital print and the thick fabric, it blocks out light as well.
Also read which window blind is right for you
Cafe curtains Cafe curtains (also called tier curtains) give you a bit of privacy while allowing in partial light, as they are hung only part way up the window. They are often used in traditional Indian homes, especially with slatted wooden window shutters and vertical iron grilles. But they fit in well in contemporary living spaces too. Take a cue from this room.
Eyelet curtains Eyelet curtains fit right on to the curtain rod via large metal rings set into the curtains. This makes this type of curtain unfussy and super easy to install. These curtains even have pleats along their length, which gives the fabric a wave-like effect. You can opt for thicker materials and darker patterns to maximise light control.
Pinch-pleated curtains If you want to up the decor a bit, go for French or pinch pleats. These kinds of curtains are made by gathering together the pleats in threes in the heading. As they are labour-intensive, they may work out to be slightly costlier than other usual options out there, but they impart a fine, tailored finish to a space. In this space, the designer also uses box-pleated valances (fabric sewn in a tubular form) with buttons.
Tip: Add a woven roller shade or pleated panels behind the curtains to completely block out light.
Tab-top curtains These curtains have exposed loops or tabs of fabric, which go over the curtain rod or a pole. Like eyelet curtains, you don't need any separate rings for installation. Also, these don't have too many gathers, which saves space when they are pulled back. A set of pretty floral curtains adorns this bedroom and plays its sprightly colours against the nude decor. Pick materials like voile or even muslin to get a breezy, light look.
Tip: Intertwined loops like these add a 'knotty' touch to tab tops, taking them from simple to wow. These loops may appear texturally complex but are stitched into place so you don't have to worry about assembling them.
Mix and match curtains with drapes We often confuse drapes with curtains. Curtains are not lined and you can play around with the length. Drapes on the other hand are always lined and cover the length from floor to the top. Here, sheer curtains have been paired with patterned and textured drapes. This gives you the flexibility to draw or pull back these layers as per your light requirements.
Read more: 6 Window Treatments That Will Change Your Perspective 9 Reasons to Bring Louvres Into Your Home
Tell us: Which curtain style works best for your living room? Write in Comments below.
Kasawoo
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Cambridge and London based Architectural Design Practice
Most living rooms host a rug in the center of the room. This is for multiple reasons. A few of them being layout, comfort, and balance. But how do you know what type of rug is good for you? Which pattern or color should you choose? Or, more importantly, what size rug for living room use?
View in galleryVia Escala Construction Inc.
Today, we'll go over what you need to know about living room rugs and how to find out what size rug for the living room will work out best for your space.
What Size Rug For Living Room?
View in galleryImage from Breeze Giannasio Interiors
Let me start off by saying that the size of rug you choose for your living room is completely up to you. That said, there are a few guidelines that designers use that can help you decide what size rug for the living room is most aesthetically pleasing.
The ratio of rug-to-livingroom is important. However, since there are only a few different sizes of living room rugs, we tend to focus on those rugs in order to pick the perfect size.
This is all personal preference of course, but if you want to stick with the standard, then you've come to the right place. To understand rug sizes, you need to understand the different standard rug sizes that are used in the living room.
5×8
This is probably the most common rug size for living rooms. This is likely because the average couch length is about seven feet. Because of this, the layout for an eight-foot rug is ideal. You can overlap with your couch or set the rug in front.
Of course, you can also put all four legs on the living room rug, but this isn't ideal. We'll talk more about that later and why most people don't put their entire couch on their rug.
9×12
The nine-by-twelve rug is also quite popular, though not as popular as the five-by-eight. The nine-by-twelve works great with large couches or with large chairs with a table in between. They are quite spacious.
You likely won't find a rug larger than this for the living room at most stores. That's because in most living rooms this rug takes up about half of the room in an average-sized living room. Any larger than that isn't recommended.
8×10
View in galleryVia Andrea Schumacher Interiors
This is another rug size that you'll see often. It can work for any room in the house that is at least ten feet wide. The ratio with this rug is what we call the "golden ratio." After all, it is the most popular photo ratio too.
You can also get 4×6 rugs which are half the size of the 8×10 yet have the same ratio. They are used in bedrooms a lot but can be seen in the center of living rooms too.
3×5
This is the smallest rug size for living rooms. While you can get smaller rugs, they are usually put in the bathroom or kitchen and are usually used for safety reasons. However, if your living room is small, this rug size and ratio is perfect.
This size of rug can also fit perfectly under a rocking chair and can make the room look much cozier.
12×18
View in galleryVia Jennifer Taylor
For extra-large living rooms, this rug size is ideal. It's hard to find rugs this large, so if you do, snatch it up right away. You probably know that the larger the rug, the more expensive it will be. This means that this rug size doesn't come cheap.
If this rug is what you want but it's too expensive, consider downsizing and saving money. The 9×12 rug may work just as well and come at a fraction of the prize. Six feet is a lot, but so is a few hundred bucks!
Rearranging The Furniture
Via Kermans Flooring
This is the next thing you need to know when choosing the perfect sized living room rug. It's better to decide how you will rearrange the furniture before you decide on the size of the rug that you want to buy.
There are a few different ways to rearrange a living room with a rug. They all involve the couch, as the majority of living rooms house a sofa, and they are the main focus of a living room if present.
All Feet On The Rug
This is probably one of the less common ways to rearrange the living room. The only reason it is less popular is because most rugs aren't big enough for all of the furniture in your living room.
Although you can just put your couch on the rug and leave the other furniture off, this often feels off-balanced. If you do choose to put all feet on your rug, you can always try doing it with a chair or two, which takes up less space.
Front Feet On The Rug
This is quite common because it brings the room together without taking up all of the rug space. Most living rooms use this layout. It leaves the living room balanced and gives you space to walk on that cozy rug that you picked out.
Just make sure that if your rug is thick that you add padding to the back legs of the couch so the couch will be safe and balanced. You can by padding online or you can make your own with household objects.
No Feet On The Rug
Via Escala Construction Inc.
With smaller rugs, this is very common. However, more often than not, a coffee table is placed in the center. This is especially useful if your coffee table is scooted across the floor often. It will prevent hardwood floors from getting scratched.
If you do want to scoot your coffee table, make sure that the rug isn't a shag rug as it will tear or tangle. Packed rugs that are thin are best for scooting furniture on.
Best Living Room Rugs
So where do you buy the best living room rugs for your room size? That's what we're here to tell you. Let's start off with just one particularly gorgeous choice for each of the standard rug sizes used in living rooms.
Three Posts Malaysian Braided Rug – 12×18
View in gallery
Lucky for you, this rug comes in over 30 shapes and sizes. However, we're going to highlight their 12×18 size because it's just so rare. The simple braided design and creamy color make it perfect for any house and any design style.
Rugs work best when they are a neutral color of the furniture is bright and a bright color if the furniture is neutral. This adds balance and completes a look with the ultimate flow.
Williston Forge Abderus Abstract Rug – 9×12
View in gallery
Another rug that comes in many sizes, the 9×12 being one of their most popular. The design here is abstract, yet simple, making it the perfect work of art for most living rooms. The rug was made in Turkey and created by a power loom.
Solid Color Rug With Multiple Designers – 8×10
View in gallery
This rug is the rug in your dreams! There are twenty colors to choose from, including the often neglected orange. Each rug is stain-resistant and soft to walk on. This perfect combination is rare so jump at the chance if this rug intrigues you.
George Oliver Elenora Shag – 5×8
View in gallery
This rug is 5'3″ by 7′ but follows the same rules as the 5×8 rugs. It works great for a standard living room and couch due to the size. It's also small enough that the bold design doesn't overwhelm the room.
Foundry Select Acklin Southwestern Rug – 3×5
View in gallery
If you live in New Mexico, Texas, or Arizona, you've seen rugs like these. You've probably had a rug like this! The colors here are what makes it special, not just the design. The sweet pastels will complement any living room with similar coloring.
Living Room Rugs For Inspiration
Just because most people choose a simple rectangle living room rug that's just the right proportion doesn't mean you have to. There are plenty of ways to change things up, here are just a few of them!
Round Living Room Rug
Via Dotter & Solfjeld Architecture + Design
A round living room rug is not unheard of. It's a great way to mix things up without going too far out there. This is especially handy if the other furniture in your living room is round. Shapes matter!
Raised Living Room Rug
Via Company C
Did you know that 3D living room rugs are a thing? That's right, you can get raised rugs that feet amazing to walk on and give an entirely new dynamic to your living room. This particular setup is delightful and cozy.
Living Room Rug Runner
Via Risa Boyer Architecture
Living room rugs can also be runners. Or rather, runners can be used as living room rugs. This is definitely useful when your house is oblong like a trailer house and you need something to fit the space.
If you can't find a runner you like, you can hide the end of one rug under a piece of furniture and attach a rug that has the same pattern to it.
Open Concept Living Room Rug
View in galleryVia Robbins Architecture
That's right! Rugs can bring two rooms together easily. The most common type of open concept house puts a dining room and living room in the same room. There's no better way to make this work than to put a rug under them both.
Eclectic Living Room Rug
Via Harper Construction Inc.
Your house should be as unique as you are. If you feel like getting a quirky zebra print rug then go for it! Rugs come in all shapes and sizes and there's no reason not to branch out and get a little crazy.
A Christmas tree adorned with twinkling lights and ornaments is an essential holiday decoration. It uplifts the spirits of people during the winter and carries the refreshing scents of pine cones and spruce. However, where did this tradition of bringing giant trees into our homes and decorating them come from?
Long before Christmas trees became an American custom, ancient societies worldwide brought evergreens into their homes because of their beliefs about harsh winters. Over time, these practices transformed into the extravagant tradition that we know today — but it wasn't well-received by everyone. So, how did Christmas trees become a vital part of celebrating one of winter's biggest holidays? From evergreen boughs to huge annual ceremonies, this is how the tradition of Christmas trees started.
What Is the Meaning Behind Evergreen Trees and Plants?
Ancient cultures believed that the sun was a god who became sick every winter. Using evergreen boughs, these early societies decorated their homes to mark the start of the sun's recovery and winter's decline during the solstice. Plants and trees that remained green were reminders of the sun's power to create warm weather and healthy life.
Egyptian Sun God Ra, Photo Courtesy: DEA/G. DAGLI ORTI/Contributor/Getty Images
The early Egyptians had similar views regarding their sun god, Ra, who weakened as the temperatures dropped. During the solstice, the Egyptians placed green palm rushes in their homes to symbolize Ra's triumph over death. Another civilization with the same belief, the ancient Romans, celebrated the solstice with greenery and a feast called Saturnalia, which honored Saturn — the god of agriculture. The solstice marked the return of bountiful fruits and vegetables, and the evergreen boughs the Romans displayed represented healthy crops that would soon start growing. Even the Vikings thought evergreen boughs were meaningful to their sun god, Balder, and, the Celts believed evergreens signified everlasting life.
Placing greenery in homes and at celebrations continued in this way for centuries until the Christmas custom as we know it began taking shape in Germany.
How Did Germany Shape the Tradition of Christmas Trees?
Germany is often credited with starting the custom of decorating Christmas trees. In the 16th century, devout Christians adorned trees with apples and nuts in their homes to represent the story of Adam and Eve. Some built Christmas pyramids made of wood, adding evergreens instead of fruits and nuts when times were tough. As Christianity expanded across Europe, Christmas trees became a common feature in households.
The practice of adding lights to trees is commonly attributed to protestant reformer Martin Luther. As he walked home one winter night, Luther was amazed by the stars twinkling amidst the evergreens. When he got home, he recreated the scene with a tree and candles for his family.
Despite the tradition's widespread presence, many people didn't welcome the idea of Christmas trees.
When Did Christmas Trees Become Popular Among Americans?
In the 1840s, many Americans saw the European practice of decorating trees as a threat to the sanctity of Christmas when Germans immigrated to the U.S. As a result, New England Puritans banned the hanging of decorations, calling them unacceptable pagan symbols. People who decorated in any way were punished.
However, the Puritan view of holiday decorations slowly changed as many German immigrants moved to the U.S. and spread the tradition of Christmas trees. More Americans embraced the custom after England's Queen Victoria and her family put up a Christmas tree at Windsor Castle. The event was depicted in a popular publication, The Illustrated London News, in 1848, compelling Americans to believe that Christmas trees were holiday essentials.
In the 1890s, Christmas decorating in the U.S. exploded. Initially, Germany shipped ornaments to the U.S., but by the 20th century, Americans had begun decorating trees with homemade ornaments, such as popcorn and cookies. Trees made of synthetic materials also became popular.
When electricity gave rise to Christmas lights, lit trees were soon erected in public spaces across the country. The custom made its way into the White House in 1923, when President Calvin Coolidge started the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. The celebratory ritual is now held every year on the north lawn of the White House.
Aside from the White House Christmas custom, another notable ceremony is the Rockefeller Center tree lighting in New York City, which started with a simple tree in 1931. Two years later, the city added lights to the tree. Today, more than 25,000 Christmas lights adorn the Norway spruce every year. Putting up Christmas trees at home and in public areas ultimately became an invaluable American tradition for those who celebrate the holiday.
We know that photos can be an amazing source of design inspiration, so this article may contain affiliate links that will direct you to a particular decor item. Clicking on a link may result in a portion of proceeds being paid to www.decoist.com
When most of us think about the ceiling for our homes, the thing that comes to our mind is white and flat. Some of us may even suffer from dreaded popcorn ceilings (check out ManMadeDIY's guide on how to remove popcorn ceilings if this is you). Not many think of incorporating a unique ceiling design to their bedroom or living area. Ceiling designs are usually the last thing we think of when decorating our homes, but it can give a room a unique character that no amount of art or furniture can do.
The best part about a great ceiling design that draws the eye, is that you don't have to completely remodel your house to achieve your desired look. There are great money-savvy ways such as buying stick-on coffered ceiling tiles that can be painted any color or even these simple DIY crown molding trim! Or if you're looking for something more elaborate you can even try gold, design-encrusted, tiles or the decorative, regal ceiling trim. Finally, if you're ready to take the plunge, you can just hire a contractor and re-do the entire ceiling! The sky (or should we say the ceiling) is the limit.
Cool contemporary interiors with recessed ceiling lighting that dazzles with class. To get this look on a budget try this faux wood ceiling wallpaper.
The perfect ceiling design varies for each room and each home and depending on the available space. The surrounding walls and the overall theme of the house, there are infinite patterns and colors to choose from. From tray ceiling to beam ceiling, cove ceiling to the highly popular drop ceiling, these beautiful ceiling inspirations and ceiling ideas give a room that exclusive and exceptional feel you're after.
So let's delve into an amazing collection of ceiling designs that will surely inspire you.
Elegant ceiling and warm lighting gives this living space an immaculate appearance
by Lee Wetherington Homes
Exquisite wood trim ceiling to match the beautiful hardwood floors in this traditional home office
by Prestige Custom Building & Construction
Fabulous ceiling and cool lighting fixtures turn this modern bedroom into an absolute dream
by Jaque Bethke for PURE Design Environments
Brilliant ceiling and lavish glass windows create the perfect ambiance for this drawing room area
by Garret Cord Werner
Chic ceiling design with multiple illuminated squares for the lavish bedroom
by Harte Brownlee & Associates Interior Design
Classic tray ceiling design uses an artistic fan to accentuate the beauty of this bedroom
by Sutton Suzuki Architects
Beautiful ceiling creates a virtual island of wood to accommodate the dining area
by Phil Kean Designs
Shining A Spotlight With A Unique Ceiling Design
Modern ceilings can do a whole lot more than just provide a plain white roof. With the amazing number of designs on offer, you can do anything imaginable. Architects play with both form and function, so you can obviously include beautiful LED lighting units as part of an elaborate and exquisite roof design.
From providing a sleek and stylish modern alternative to offering the classic look by employing pendant lamps and chandeliers, an innovative roof design can do wonders to any existing room when combined with proper lighting techniques.
Tasteful bedroom ceiling incorporates skylight in its designUnusual ceiling pattern and amazing decor give this home a dazzling lookStylish light ceiling inspired by Jean Louis Deniot, cool blue walls and dark flooring offer lovely contrast to this weekend getaway bedroom
by Crisp Architects
Striking stencil design and gorgeous scone lighting bring this ceiling to life
by John Kraemer & Sons
Softly-lit sapele mahogany ceiling coffers complete this amazing bedroom designSizzling living room ceiling is lit in warm hues
by Urban Concepts Modern Fireplace Design
Subtle wood paneled ceiling incorporates the existing wooden beams seamlessly
by Wright Street Design Group
Simple and stylish tray ceiling design is perfect for every contemporary home
Ceiling Designs That Play With Depth Perception
Barreled ceiling with beautiful trim inside offers an interesting variation from the monotony
A custom-designed ceiling can offer a unique and brilliant appeal. One of the reasons is the simple fact that it can alter the visual impression a particular room makes in a grand fashion. While a cathedral roof can give your interior a spacious feel, a drop roof design can offer a compact and contemporary twist. It is also more in line with modern design trends.
Eclectic kitchen design with island bar and cool blue ceiling
by XTC Design Incorporated
A coffered ceiling can create a sense of height and an airy feeling for a home. All while giving it that 'old English' charm that so many designers and homeowners dream about. It gives the impression of a more spacious interior with a modern outlook and can be created using the Tray Ceiling. While it works best for homes with a higher ceiling, it does bring in a fresh perspective.
Dramatic ceiling design promises this house a unique interiorElaborate ceiling in wood gives this traditional home office a timeless look
by Murphy & Co. Design
Innovative ceiling design gives this minimalist bedroom a futuristic feelInteresting and illuminated ceiling panels for the lounge areaLiving room with graceful and understated ceiling and lovely soothing tonesContemporary kitchen sports a stylish ceiling in white with cove lighting
by Design First Interiors
Blending In While Standing Out!
Gold-leafed starburst mirror on the ceiling steals the show in this royally styled study
As discussed above, there are plenty of options available for those who want to replicate the classic 'beam' look. There is the obvious choice of going in with the Beam ceiling. Even if it might not be part of structural support, it brings in a timeless and historical appeal.
The best part about many of these amazing ceiling designs is they blend in seamlessly with the remainder of the home. Even though it blends it with the chosen theme, it still steals the spotlight in a modest fashion.
Vaulted beadboard ceiling demarcates this living space borders with class
by Michael Robert Construction
A great ceiling complements the rest of the room, lifts its visual appeal and offers it a fresh new perspective that is both ergonomic and aesthetic. At the end of the day, it is the perfect blend of style with substance!
Futuristic contemporary bedroom design with a stunning ceilingArtistic ceiling design and lovely chandelier give this dining room in neutral tones a classic look
by Candace Cavanaugh Interiors
Modern fireplace and snazzy ceiling give these interiors a refined appeal
by Birdseye Design
Painted tile ceiling for the daft little dining roomPaneled ceiling and colorful decor help create this unique living room planVaried ceiling and ergonomic lighting add beauty to this lovely East Coast style kitchenWarm living room with intricate ceiling design and gentle tones
by Pepe Calderin Design- Miami Modern Interior Design
