2011 Winter Interior Design Trends – Retro 50's and 60's

<a href="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSzXWihW83e6enKOtj6jVBBtLZlUwM0pMDByy7Ln1OT_7eOofZB" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSzXWihW83e6enKOtj6jVBBtLZlUwM0pMDByy7Ln1OT_7eOofZB" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 259px; height: 194px;" /></a><br />This season we see the return of the 1950's and 60's, however rather bold and bright you'll need to think along the lines of subtly stylish, with gently curved furniture with slim-line or tapered legs rather than bold and chunky.<br /><br />Mid twentieth century retro looks will use patterns sitting alongside light and airy colours such as duck egg blues, lemons and various shades of white. Muted is the concept along with the use of geometric or irregular shapes. Scandinavian patterns will be bang on-trend along with the use of natural wood in paler colours of rose, teak and yellow pine for window blinds, dining room furniture, the arms of sofas and chairs along with coffee tables.<br /><br />Many aspects of 50's furniture will also be seeing a revival in the way of sideboards and modular cabinets. The mid-century look will have an organic feel with use of natural upholstery, soft furnishings and ceramics. Look for natural <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/cat/curtain-fabrics/">curtain fabrics online</a> with a retro pattern or style to make your own curtains or use to recover and re-upholster furniture passed down by older relatives for an authentic mid twentieth century look.<br /><br />Image: Sarah Housley

2011 Winter Interior Design Trends – Retro 50's and 60's

This season we see the return of the 1950's and 60's, however rather bold and bright you'll need to think along the lines of sub...

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Interior Design Week-end Projects 2: Go Wild!

<a href="http://blog.westernpassion.com/files/2011/03/western1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://blog.westernpassion.com/files/2011/03/western1.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 275px; height: 375px;" /></a><br /><br />If you're looking for a quick week-end update to one of your rooms why not consider using a specific theme? Themes are a great way to inject a new look to dull and tired looking rooms, it's just a matter on choosing the theme that suits you and your home the best.<br /><br /><br /><br />You also need to consider how full on you wish for the theme to be. What is meant by this is that some themes, such as the Wild West, can be very 'in your face' if you want them to be. With saloon doors, horse shoes and leather everywhere!<br /><br /><br /><br />Some people may find it a little obnoxious to go so strongly on a theme, yet for many of us it is perfection! So if you are inspired to go full out John Wayne, western to the maximum, then go for it! At the end of the day it is your home, and therefore your tastes that matter.<br /><br /><br /><br />This applies very much so to Wild Western themes due to the fact that most films did use their artistic license to the extreme! Look for <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/cat/curtain-fabrics/">curtain fabrics online</a> to find colours and designs to suit the theme, such as gingham and checks which can be made into curtains, blinds, cushions and throws, also consider having wooden blinds rather than curtains to 'get the look'.<br /><br /><br /><br />Image: Blog – Western Passion

Interior Design Week-end Projects 2: Go Wild!

If you're looking for a quick week-end update to one of your rooms why not consider using a specific theme? Themes are a great way to in...

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Interior Design Week-end Projects 1: In The Dinning Room

<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-6B7SkefXD38/TX4vi7zIRBI/AAAAAAAAHoY/Cf41a2eWojM/s320/SM_6.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-6B7SkefXD38/TX4vi7zIRBI/AAAAAAAAHoY/Cf41a2eWojM/s320/SM_6.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 270px;" /></a><br /><br />If you do have the luxury of a little bit of money to spend, repainting the walls of your dining room in a new shade can really change the appearance of the room. After all, colour psychology tells us that every colour gives off different feelings and emotions - so be sure your room is saying what you want it to!<br /><br /><br /><br />You could choose to use wallpaper instead, which would allow you to work in patterns and varied styles in comparison to just painting the walls. It can even work out a much cheaper option than paint, depending on how much is required. <br /><br /><br /><br />If you do go for the painting route however, you might want to paint one wall darker than the rest. This is because having one wall noticeably darker than the others creates an optical illusion. It makes the entire room look much bigger, which can often be a problem in a combined dining room.<br /><br /><br /><br />An easy to overlook, but fantastic way to renovate your dining area is to buy new place-mats, coasters and table cloths. While not everyone makes use of them, they are the perfect way to take care of your table, from stains or 'ring marks' from glasses. They also give you a great opportunity to bring splashes of fabulous colour in to the room. Buy <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/cat/curtain-fabrics/">curtain fabrics online</a> to create your own bespoke table setting which can be achieved as a simple week-end project.<br /><br /><br /><br />Image: A Life's Design

Interior Design Week-end Projects 1: In The Dinning Room

If you do have the luxury of a little bit of money to spend, repainting the walls of your dining room in a new shade can really change the a...

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Interior Design Ideas: Using Purple

<a href="http://thedesignfairy.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/purple-livingroom21.jpg?w=400&h=320" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://thedesignfairy.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/purple-livingroom21.jpg?w=400&h=320" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 220px;" /></a><br />In my last post I talked about plum and aubergine as accent or complimentary colours to team with green. However, being such a regal colour, it can become too serious if used incorrectly. This is especially true for deep rich purples. This is fine if you are looking to create a very ornate and royal looking room such as a dining room or bedroom, however to make it more playful and relaxed try using patterned materials or wallpaper. <br /><br />Even something as simple as swirls of white, or alternating brighter shades can turn an otherwise stuffy colour in to a very refreshing and laid back look.<br /><br />These vibrant shades of purple, bordering on the lines of magenta or heliotrope, often look amazing in small accessories and areas of a room. Everything from patterned bedroom curtains, to lampshades and cushions can be purple - adding a strength and sophistication to any area.<br /><br />Look for fabulous purple <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/cat/curtain-fabrics/">curtain fabrics online</a> to see the wide and varied choices of plain tones and beautiful patterns which can used to make soft furnishings, curtains, cheap cushion covers and Roman blinds, to suit the style of your home and décor.<br /><br />Image: bloglovin'

Interior Design Ideas: Using Purple

In my last post I talked about plum and aubergine as accent or complimentary colours to team with green. However, being such a regal colour,...

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Influential Interior Designers – Charles Rennie Mackintosh

<a href="http://www.collectors-club-of-great-britain.co.uk/userfiles/articles/CharlesRennieMackintosh.gif" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.collectors-club-of-great-britain.co.uk/userfiles/articles/CharlesRennieMackintosh.gif" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 229px; height: 348px;" /></a><br />For those of you who have become to know me through this blog will have realised that one of my favourite interior designers is Charles Rennie Mackintosh. For those of you who are new to reading my blog I will give you my reasons why Rennie Mackintosh should be at the top of influential interior design.<br /><br />Born in Scotland in 1868, he attended the Glasgow School of Art and became a pioneer and member of what became known as 'the four'. Principally an architect in the early days due to hardship he began painting and designing textiles.<br /><br />During his career he was inspired by the concept of the Modernist movement; where innovative ideas and new technologies embraced design which was concerned with the present and the future as opposed to history and to tradition. The heavy ornamentation and inherited styles were disregarded and even though Mackintosh is known as the pioneer of the Modernist movement his designs were a far cry from the bleak utilitarianism of Modernism.<br /><br />His main concern was to view people as individuals rather than producing and designing for the masses, he took much of his inspiration from his Scottish upbringing and weaves them together with a flourish of Art Nouveau and the simplicity of Japanese forms.<br /><br />One of my favourites designs are based on a red flower, and if you're also inspired then you can choose Charles Rennie Mackintosh inspired designs from a <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/terry-s-wholesale-fabric-store-discount-online-fabric-store/">wholesale fabric</a> store to make your own curtains and soft furnishings.<br /><br />Image: Collectors Club

Influential Interior Designers – Charles Rennie Mackintosh

For those of you who have become to know me through this blog will have realised that one of my favourite interior designers is Charles Renn...

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Finding A Colour

<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0urgZs82zpM/TOHULKCYYEI/AAAAAAAADJo/xI46Z-XSK9Y/s400/ss_101337989.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_0urgZs82zpM/TOHULKCYYEI/AAAAAAAADJo/xI46Z-XSK9Y/s400/ss_101337989.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 275px; height: 350px;" /></a><br />Finding a colour to suit you and your home can sometimes seem overwhelming at the choice that there is, at this point it might be helpful to have a colour chart with you and at the same time keep in mind the existing furnishings you have in your home. If you are not sure as to the precise colours that you want in your bedroom, or the effect they will achieve, it is often best to get a trial pot of paint. These are little pots of paint of the colour you think will go well in your room. All you have to do is paint a small area on one of your walls with this colour, and leave it there for a few days and see if you are comfortable with this colour and if it lends itself to the room.<br /><br />Likewise with your soft furnishings, ask a <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/terry-s-wholesale-fabric-store-discount-online-fabric-store/">wholesale fabric</a> supplier for samples; any reputable online fabric store will be more than happy to send free samples. Bear in mind that if you choose fabrics with a large pattern the sample may not have all of the design on it.<br /><br />Image: Small Space Style

Finding A Colour

Finding a colour to suit you and your home can sometimes seem overwhelming at the choice that there is, at this point it might be helpful to...

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Bedroom Talk – A Victorian Touch to Guest-rooms

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuV0eyiTp2n8OqjNEt7-bDzhZgEwXZzhdNW6xlNsatIupgll_zPfNchmTlEl5F5SvC8I0i8m1Aff0IjKUgyuwxJvfYECmENpC5jjqM4zlJR33KGgYws7mqTzr8Ez-8W5l-TbmN4AjNM6Y/s400/5.gif" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuV0eyiTp2n8OqjNEt7-bDzhZgEwXZzhdNW6xlNsatIupgll_zPfNchmTlEl5F5SvC8I0i8m1Aff0IjKUgyuwxJvfYECmENpC5jjqM4zlJR33KGgYws7mqTzr8Ez-8W5l-TbmN4AjNM6Y/s400/5.gif" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 275px;" /></a><br />Perhaps the most noticeable part of any Victorian bedroom is the bed. Many Victorian beds were actually Queen or King size but unfortunately many guest-rooms are too small and simply do not have adequate room to cater for a queen or king-size bed. However, this does not necessarily mean that you cannot create a great looking bed with a few simple materials and tools. Just by getting your hands on some great looking <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/terry-s-wholesale-fabric-store-discount-online-fabric-store/">wholesale fabric</a> and paints, you can create a Victorian look to the metals, woods, upholstery and your soft furnishings.<br /><br />Creating Victorian looking tables for your bedroom is also another aspect which will really gives your bedroom an overall feel of the Victorian era. If you are stuck for some ideas as to how to dress an existing table, you may want to consider looking in a local second-hand store. Here you may find many traditional looking tables at a fraction of the price when compared a new one so this is really worth your consideration. Choose pretty floral printed curtain fabrics online to use as a delicate table cloth, add bone china tea cups and saucers (you could use these as candle holders) and a small vase of fresh flowers and your guests will feel really welcome.<br /><br />Image: Belle Maison

Bedroom Talk – A Victorian Touch to Guest-rooms

Perhaps the most noticeable part of any Victorian bedroom is the bed. Many Victorian beds were actually Queen or King size but unfortunately...

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Using colour – It's Yellow in 2011!

<a href="http://www.atticmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/bat-ecl-sunflowr1A-435.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.atticmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/bat-ecl-sunflowr1A-435.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 275px; height: 300px;" /></a><br />If you want to incorporate this year's interior design colour yellow into your home there are some great shades available for both contemporary and traditional interiors.<br /><br />Contemporary:<br />Vivid yellow - think of lemons and a bright summer sun - can be used in a contemporary setting to create a modern and edgy vibe in your room. Vivid colours give high impact and need good natural light to be seen to best effect. Preparation is all important when using such a solid flat colour as any imperfections will be all too easily highlighted. Accessories need to be in keeping with the bold theme of the room and give that wow-factor; the more unusual and eye-catching the better! Look for a range of fabulous plain and patterned <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/">curtain fabrics online</a> to make your window dressing and soft furnishings.<br /><br />Traditional:<br />Deep yellow is a good choice if you want to create a timeless and traditional interior; it also has the advantage of working well in rooms where natural light is limited and carefully placed lamps and lighting are utilised. Deeper shades of yellow lend themselves to a more relaxed unstructured look so an eclectic mix of simple, uncoordinated accessories such as faded rugs and old leather-bound books will transform you room into a warm and inviting space.<br /><br />Image: Atticmag

Using colour – It's Yellow in 2011!

If you want to incorporate this year's interior design colour yellow into your home there are some great shades available for both conte...

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All Things Bright & Beautiful

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYfM0aMXxDx7eYdkzqswO20iyk0NeULu0iOVRUJroD8rTmSC7JVGDFpu2Rw_qzEFS0POrtL6isNEMeYlfQ52Y4nxSEO_6JeJ58depEyI5dF8QwrT9RSkrFci0R0EN02J6TmBYvREteFtrf/s400/living0508.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYfM0aMXxDx7eYdkzqswO20iyk0NeULu0iOVRUJroD8rTmSC7JVGDFpu2Rw_qzEFS0POrtL6isNEMeYlfQ52Y4nxSEO_6JeJ58depEyI5dF8QwrT9RSkrFci0R0EN02J6TmBYvREteFtrf/s400/living0508.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 338px;" /></a><br />Don't let the cold days and the thought of winter dampen your spirits! Brighten your living space with a bright and cheerful colour scheme to beat the winter blue without redecorating. How? - easy add some large floral cushions to your sofa to be right on trend this winter.<br /><br />Although neutrals are still 'big' this year the injection of bright autumnal oranges and reds is a great way to keep your home looking bright and beautiful right throughout winter and into spring. The trend for hand-made soft furnishings also remains on-trend; simply buy curtain fabrics online and be spoilt with the plethora of super patterns and designs to make your own cheap cushion covers, curtains and blinds.<br /><br />For a retro look take a step back to the swinging sixties with large psychedelic patterns and bold floral prints in orange, lime green and purple. Choose lime green curtains to add a real pop of colour to your rooms or keep neutral with cream <a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/cat/ready-made-curtains/eyelet-curtains/">eyelet curtains ready made</a> for a more subdued look.<br /><br />It may also be time to steer away from the stereotypical Christmas colours and inject colour and a whole new revival of informal chic elegance to your home!<br /><br />Image: Haven and Home

All Things Bright & Beautiful

Don't let the cold days and the thought of winter dampen your spirits! Brighten your living space with a bright and cheerful colour sche...

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Fantasy Interior Design Ideas - Alice In Wonderland!

<a href="http://freshome.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Petit-Beurre-Coussin.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://freshome.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Petit-Beurre-Coussin.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 600px;" /></a><br />This is urban fantasy where everything gets thrown out of proportion! Mix and match furnitures and the odd colour clash pave the way for this summer trend. <br /><a href="http://www.terrysfabrics.co.uk/prod/ready-made-curtains/eyelet-curtains/rio-eyelet-ready-made-curtains-hot-pink/">Hot Pink Curtains</a> provide a cheap and quick update for homes looking for the playful side of decorating. Fuchsia pink curtains can be seen next to other brights such as red or yellow for a really spontaneous interior which is bright, fun and funky!<br /><br />Oversized floor lamps - or anything oversized for that matter - it is one of the key elements of this themed look. Although this is best achieved through decorative pieces such as sculptural floor lamps, artworks or larger than life vases for pretty blooms.<br /><br />Include the Mad Hatter's tea party as a theme for your dining area using pretty china tea cups and saucers, add a trendy tea pot along with an on-trend table runner made from cotton curtain fabrics online and add oversized cushions and throws to give a quirky, yet very comfortable place to eat!<br /><br />You don't have to be a child to adore this theme just young at heart with a good sense of fun and the need to do something completely different to your home!<br /><br />Image: Freshome

Fantasy Interior Design Ideas - Alice In Wonderland!

This is urban fantasy where everything gets thrown out of proportion! Mix and match furnitures and the odd colour clash pave the way for thi...

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