Fireplaces were once the only way to make a home warm, cozy and welcoming during winter, just like they are during summer. They used to be a vital thing to come home to, the place to tell frightening and heroic stories to grandchildren and rejoice with friends and family while the cold forces of nature were fighting one another, outside. It used to be the image you would pensively stare at for insight and answers, like a mysterious oracle of the same sort as the ocean waves or restless clouds. Nowadays we largely replaced this contemplation with smartphone apps, while we keep ourselves warm through centralized heating with built-in floors and walls applications. But you have to wonder, why do we still keep the fire in its obsolete primal form in our homes? The answer could be feng shui or perhaps the fact that it is beautiful and special, the one force in the house that cannot be mastered, although it can be contained, a piece of untamed nature. It is interesting to look into, even if most of us don’t know about the healing and decongesting power the infrared temperature has for our eyes grown tired due to modern artificial light sources. Fireplaces have lost their primary protective function, but their statement and aesthetic function is going stronger than ever. Here’s some examples to prove it. A living room is a great place to enjoy the warmth and the spectacle of a fireplace, be it in a rather traditional or a highly minimalistic frame. There are many constructive approaches to the fireplace and the majority place it in a centralized location. Rather than a rectangular hole in the wall, there is a sleek long shelf for the fire god to do his magic, stealing the show away from the large flat screen TV that is sometimes even banned on a side wall of lesser hierarchy. Some fireplaces are their own construction, in a partition wall between the adjacent living and dining area to serve them both. A pedestal for the flames, like a home altar, and a wall or the shaft suspended over it, bringing a structural eye-catcher to that of the fire. As far as textures are concerned, all nature or man made materials celebrate the fire, from exposed brick over the gorgeous cultured stone to marble and plaster patterns, even minimalist ones like aluminum and glass, from structural to sculptural. Interesting and rare fireplace design effects can be achieved with eccentric finishes such as the rich and timeless texture of rust cladding for an old industrial accent, or a back-lit glass structure for a very stylish and modern touch. The ethanol technique has made fireplaces very clean and minimalistic. Back in the days it would be a complete mess of coal and grime. Now it’s just the magic performance of flames on an improbably clean and sleek surface. The housing of these new fireplaces takes the strangest and most cutting-edge shapes, like the recently award-winning HeatGlo Solaris gas Fireplace. This state of the art house application resembles nothing of the classical fireplaces: a thin surface of fire seemingly floating in void and probably the most sci-fi fireplace at the moment. Surely this suspended fireplace looks familiar. An icon in modern fireplace appliances is this very unconventional looking shape produced by Fireorb and Gyrofocus . Not only does it weightlessly float in the room, denying the traditional, heavy and solid character of fireplaces, but is is as flexible as to face any side of the room by rotation. It is space-saving, clean and sculptural and comes in a variety of colors. A white version looks almost like a spaceship appliance, achieving a cutting-edge futuristic effect without compromising elegance. Unoubtedly, a fireplace is cozier in its more traditional form, that does not break the constructs of our cultural history, in which this appliance has played a major role. Furthermore, since these are integrated in large constructive elements, you have a greater degree of customization: the shape and size of the opening, wall finish, materiality and texture, to accessories such as works of art and decoration. But whether you want one for the living room or bedroom, the fireplace becomes a presence that can turn the space into a sensation. Modern and minimalistic fireplaces with unconventional shapes require an eye for interior arrangements to go with it, while a custom built wall-fireplace needs imagination and love of detail that can culminate in a really impressing and hot result.
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Emerald GreenOne of the most beloved color forecasters is Pantone, and they have officially announced theirColor of the Year for 2013: Emerald! Emerald green evokes the vibrancy of nature while at the same time conjuring a jewel-toned richness that can’t be denied. Whether you picture a faceted gemstone, the ridges in a sample of malachite, or your favorite plant when you gaze upon an emerald space or accent, you’ll love incorporating this vivid shade into your interior. Below we see a living space that blends yellow- and blue-tinted shades of emerald green. The result: a layered, powerful palette. [from Rikki Snyder Photography] LilacAnother popular hue for 2013: lilac. In fact, shades of purple are on many a forecast list, shown in spaces that soothe with calming colors, such as the bedroom below. [from Housetohome] In fact, one popular trend for the next year involves mixing shades of purple, from lavender to violet and eggplant. Note how the purple hues in the next space create a deep, rich look that is both welcoming and glamorous. [from Let me be inspired] Mustard YellowRadiant yellow will steal the show in many a 2013-designed room. With tones of the sun and a definite golden glow, this friendly shade works well with colors such as tangerine and eggplant. Note the warm vibe of the living room below. [from HGTV.com] Mustard also blends peacefully with shades such as brown and citron green. In fact, this color combination creates a vintage look that is perfect for modern spaces. Note the earthy hues in the charming room below. [from Little Lovables] Ocean BlueSoothing shades of blue can be found on many a color forecast list. Not to mention, blue mixes well with lighter and darker shades of the same color. Note the prominent ocean blue shade in the room below, as well as the way it stands out when juxtaposed with royal blue, navy blue and crisp white. [from Ellenor Industries] The soothing blue wall color in the room below beautifully combines with warm, neutral tones, such as light golden brown. Which makes sense when you picture the sand and sea of the beach in perfect harmony! [from DesignShuffle.com] Fiery OrangeTangerine was Pantone’s color of the year for 2012. So why would it fade away so quickly in 2013? We’re not surprised it’s still on this year’s list of popular colors! In the space below designed by Brown Davis Interiors, Inc., the hue is strategically used to accentuate a recessed ceiling. [via Houzz] Don’t forget the joyful blend of orange and pink! And a dash of brown. The living room below features a striking orange and pink combo, as well as earthy wooden tones. [from Centsational Girl] Cloudy GrayWhile the allure of eye-catching colors can’t be denied, the importance of neutrals is just as significant. Gray has been included in many of this year’s color palettes, for it soothes and calms, keeping the ultra-radiant shades in check. For example, note how well gray mixes with the teal green pillows in the room below. [from Decor Pad] Don’t be afraid to bring in rich shades–with gray walls, there’s room for deep accents. In the next featured space, royal blue is a stunning contrast to the background hue. [from Atmosphere Interior Design, Inc. via Houzz]
Shelves are stylish and practical ways to store, organize and display items creatively. If you have limited space in your home, especially if you live in a small condominium or apartment, there’s a wide selection of shelving options to utilize small spaces efficiently. Maximize every inch of space in your room by using the following unique shelving tips. 1) Floating Bookshelves Floating shelves can give your apartment space a refreshing design as you can creatively arrange them in any way you want. They’re fantastic for supporting books, photography works, vase arrangements, photo displays and other items. They’re great for saving space and quite functional as well. With floating shelves, the floor space is free for tables and other furniture. It’s best to select those with strong support when planning to store heavier things. 2) The Opus Bookshelves These are specially designed in a quasi-hexagonal pattern. They’re made from light but strong material that’s recyclable as well as usable indoor or outdoor. You can use the bookshelves to store some books, records, DVDs and even wine bottles. 3) Floor-to-Ceiling Shelves This type of shelving best suits small areas which you aim to convert into a nice workplace or study area. By fitting a desk under wall-to-wall shelves, you can maximize the space and have the storage that you need. The desk provides ample surface area so you can move comfortably around while simply reaching out for any necessary book or supply item that’s stored right in front of you. 4) Wraparound Unit This is a customized design that you can build around a kitchen column. The shelves provide plenty of additional storage for your kitchen, and at the same time they create a catchy, contemporary design element in the room. 5) Folding Bookshelves These bookshelves help you creatively organize your books and miscellaneous things with a very practical design. You can arrange your items easily in a new and interesting way. The bookshelves are light, and at the same time sturdy and reliable for holding several things. The folding bookshelves stand out in terms of saving space mainly because of their capability to be turned 90 degrees, laid down, stood up, and used horizontally or vertically. 6) Multifunctional Shelving If your bedroom is small, try to create different functions by using a sliding wall. When you open it, a Murphy bed drops down giving you a comfortable place for slumber or relaxation. On the other hand, when you close it a full array of bookshelves comes into view. It’s a great space saver in any room.
These are some of the latest and most creative shelving examples that will help you make the most out of any limited space. There are usually plenty of unused wall space in bedroom and hall closets, particularly near the floor and ceiling, so consider building shelves in these areas to maximize space. Kraft Paper Gift Wrap IdeasLet’s start with that wondrous wrapping supply called kraft paper. Or Kraft paper with a capital “K.” Or simply “craft paper.” However you choose to spell it, take note of its brown paper bag coloring, which is the perfect backdrop for a range of embellishments. Our first image–a collection of ornamental ideas–comes from Justina Blakeney. Which is your favorite?: Japanese washi tape is a stylishly decorative material that is gaining popularity in the gifting arena. A little bit of kraft paper, some washi tape, and a feather just might be the answer to your gift wrapping dilemma, as shown in the next image from A Beautiful Mess. It’s hard to top those dots you can purchase at the office supply store! Bring a little neon to your holiday and use them as decorative stickers. Note how craft paper and twine add class without overpowering the polka dots! [from Project Wedding] In another collection of ideas, we see how kraft paper can be enhanced with four amazing options: a paper snowflake, pom poms, an accordion fan and twine. Crafty tutorials can be found at A Pair of Pears. The understated splendor of kraft paper makes it the perfect backdrop for a holiday vignette starring a bottle brush tree and a plastic reindeer. [from She Makes a Home] Keep it simple in the background, then let a rainbow array of string take center stage in the foreground. This one requires some knot-tying patience, but we think you’ll agree it’s worth the time and energy for a result this eye-catching! [from Mix 104.3] Monogrammed Gift Wrap IdeasPersonalize your gifts with a monogram! Stamps, stickers, tags–they can all be used to your advantage. The monogrammed gift wrap design below requires strategic cutting, but we think you’ll agree that the leaves seem to jump off the surface of the paper. Check out all the details atDesign Sponge. Another stellar Design Sponge idea makes use of a re-purposed vintage letter to create a truly unique monogram, which is a gift in itself! In fact, vintage letters have made a design comeback in recent years. Can’t you see the red one below perched on a living room shelf? Or use a gift tag to add a monogram to your design. Check out the tutorial for these personalized creations at Haute Apple Pie. Handmade Paper Gift Wrap IdeasThere’s nothing like handmade paper! No, we’re not talking about paper you make from scratch! But we are taking note of paper designs that are pieced together from craft supplies. Below we see Christmas gift wrap in soft shades of winter, such as aqua and lavender. Hang onto your paper scraps–they come in handy when it’s time to wrap, as noted by this quilt-style design that showcases a variety of patterns. Details can be found at decor8: In this next image, we see pom pom paper from Anthropologie. To make your own version, wrap your gift, then let your glue gun and a pack of mini pom poms be your friend! [from Chicago Shopping] Classic Paper and Ribbon Wrap IdeasA beautifully wrapped gift can be created with stunning paper and a well-tied ribbon. Yes, it’s that simple! For example, the Ikat gift wrap below is a wonderful blend of bold color and a snow-white background, both enhanced by silky red ribbon. [from The Wife] You can’t deny the crisp look that results when patterned paper meets ribbon in a contrasting color. [from P.S. Blog] Did you know that the Elli Wrap below is free printable gift wrap?! The patterns are part of the W00ly Woodland collection from Ellinee. We’re partial to the squirrel, owl and deer print (called Forest Friends): If you’ve got the unforgettable paper and you’re looking for a way to create a one-of-a-kind bow, check out the wooden gift bow in the next image. Crafted from veneer, this item just might steal the gift’s thunder. View a full tutorial at You Are My Fave. Gorgeous paper–check. Lovely ribbon–check. Throw in some handmade gift tags, and you’re set. Check out the gift tag tutorial at Oh So Beautiful Paper: Gift Wrap IdeasWe end with some gift wrapping ideas that use unexpected supplies to create an unforgettable result. Yes, that outdated map in your glove compartment can be put to good use! Top it all off with a pipe cleaner bow. Details can be found at A Beautiful Mess. Do you enjoy a good word search? What if the word search were used to cover your gifts, as shown in the next image? To create a similar gift wrap look, print out a Christmas word search, then circle one or two of the holiday-themed phrases. Now you’re ready to wrap! Don’t forget the bow! [from Miss Indie] On a similar note, don’t forget that you can also wrap gifts in newspaper. The black and white of the pages are the perfect complement to a woven paper topper in vibrant shades. [from Lark Crafts] If you want to be extra creative (and extra green), wrap your gift in leaves and flowers. Yes, real ones! A trip to your local florist is in order. Isn’t the result breathtaking?! Check out the details at Justina Blakeney:
Warm Wooden DetailsOne key feature of Scandinavian design is the use of wooden furnishings and interior details, such as flooring. In the image below we see how warm walls of natural wood contrast dark wooden bedroom furniture in a room that creates a welcoming golden glow. [from Margaret Donaldson Interiors] Wooden flooring in the next image is enhanced by a nightstand, headboard and wooden trim in contrasting tones. [from Sage Modern] Even if flooring and walls don’t showcase wooden building materials, you can add warmth with furnishings, such as the modern bed below. [from Soorikian Architecture] Keep it simple and serene by leaving doors and other interior features in their natural wooden state. Even for soft, bright spaces, there’s no need to cover wooden pieces with white paint. Simply choose lighter-toned furnishings, as shown in the next image. [from IKEA] Note how the wooden bed and nightstands below create a clean-lined modern effect. Simple bedding and a few strategic pops of color complete the look. [from Alex Amend Photography] Clean-Lined FurnishingsSpeaking of clean lines, one aspect of Scandinavian design involves the use of modern furnishings that celebrate lines, curves and other streamlined details. The room below has a retro vibe, channeling a contemporary version of Mid-Century style through seating and lighting. [from Dick Clark Architecture] Note how the straight lines of the bed in the next image wonderfully contrast the round side table. A striped rug unifies the space. [from A Merry Mishap Blog] Modern chairs have a sculptural effect, along with the long, lean lines of the cabinet against the wall in the room below. By not overcrowding a room, you can call attention to each contemporary detail. [from Brad Ford ID, Inc.] Metallic AccentsLooking for a way to add a little shine? Involve metallic accents, such as an industrial work lamp or closet trim in matte silver. Not only does metal catch the eye, it serves as a sleek contrast to the natural elements in a room. [from IKEA] Sometimes one metal piece is all you need. Like an industrial chair in the corner of the room, as shown in the space below. [from homebloghouse.com] Eye-Catching TextilesScandinavian design often features vibrant textiles in bold shades. Sometimes modern and sometimes rustic, these patterned pieces can help define a room. For example, Finnish design company Marimekko is known for its striking bedding, as shown by the floral duvet cover below, which can be purchased at Crate & Barrel. [from Houzz user Becky Harris] Lacy patterns often emerge on Scandinavian textiles, adding softness and charm to the rooms they inhabit. In the next featured space, lace-evoking bedding helps cast a rosy glow over the boudoir. [from IKEA] Warm touches such as floral patterns can give a room a crafty look, especially when combined with homemade-style details, such as the heart art below! [from IKEA] Or try going with a bold geometric in black and white! In the Scandinavian-style space in the next featured image, circles and diamonds leave their stylish mark. [from IKEA] Below we see the same bedding, this time combined with more blatantly colorful accents, such as hanging fabric and striped pillows. Note the interplay of the black and white bedding with the ultra-vivid details in the room. Mixing the neutral with the colorful allows for a greater number of patterns in one space. [from IKEA via Female Ways] Sometimes keeping the color palate simple lets the patterns themselves take center stage, as with the black and white bedding from Marimekko shown below. [from Crate & Barrel] In addition to showcasing bold modern designs, Scandinavian textiles often feature more traditional patterns, such as the intersecting horizontal and vertical lines of the blanket in the next image. Comforting and cozy, this throw adds charm, along windowsill greenery. [fromhomebloghouse.com] Scandinavian Design for Kids’ BedroomsOur last featured group of images are for the kids! Crisp white walls and trim contrast colorful accents, such as whimsical patterning and bright toys. In the space below, the wonderfully quirky details include a flag banner and a hanging mushroom lantern! [from Damask & Dentelle] In a room for two, try mixing patterns with similar shades, as shown with the textiles on bedding and window treatments in the next featured image! [from IKEA] Our final featured space is a Swedish bedroom with soft wallpapered walls, vivid bedding, and a star-themed rug. Note the use of soothing green and blue shades as anchor colors, combined with brighter hues of yellow and red for eye-catching accents. [from Homedit]
Paper Garlands We begin with a series of paper garlands that use simple supplies to create magnificent results. The Christmas paper bauble garland below is crafted of paper, string and glue. A circle punch makes shaping the dots easy and fun. To find out how to connect them, check out the full tutorial at Kidspot. You can do wonders with paper strips! Inspired by a tutorial from The Cheese Thief, this woven paper ball garland is crafted of paper, tape and string. Check out How About Orange for details on how to create the charming 3-D balls you see in the next image. Paper snowflakes are magical! But you don’t have to cut these out by hand… The paper snowflake mini-garland DIY project is designed by Evita of Le Papillon Vert. Using heavy paper, thread and a snowflake punch, this project is a snap! Visit Design Sponge for the full tutorial… From snowflakes to lacy paper chains… Our next DIY project comes from Kjerstis Lykke via To Be Charmed. As you can see, a paper punch is once again utilized, this time to create long strips that take the classic paper chain concept to an intricate new level: Nature-Inspired GarlandsWhy not let nature be your inspiration? The DIY garland below makes use of acorns that are decorated with craft paint. Add a little hot glue and twine, and you have a garland that can stay up from Thanksgiving until the new year. Check out the full tutorial at Julep. For another DIY project that you can make by gathering items from the backyard, take a look at the pine cone flower garland. Pine cones, felt, beads, paint and a few other simple supplies combine to create an earthy garland with an enchanting look. Thank you, Two Shades of Pink, for your clever tutorial! Our next featured garland blends pearls and glitter ribbon with the help of head pins. The best part: the finished product can be added to a garland of greenery for a shimmering display that celebrates the magic of the holiday. A full tutorial can be found at Love Maegan. Christmas Garlands Made From Assorted Craft SuppliesOur final batch of garlands are fashioned from a range of craft supplies, from Christmas bows to decorative tape! The DIY pom pom garland below is whimsically colorful, and it’s easy to create with pom poms, a needle and twine. The full tutorial at Oh So Pretty proves that keeping it simple can be the answer to your holiday decor dilemma! The next featured Christmas garland combines the look of strung berries with the style of flag pennants! All you need are styrofoam balls, masking tape, a needle, thread and scissors. Check out Funkytime for the how-to: With the allure of peppermint candy, the twisted felt garland below looks good enough to eat! You’ll be surprised that this stunning DIY project requires very little sewing and is easier than it looks! Visit The Purl Bee for details… Lights–check! Gift bows–check! And there you have a creative Christmas decoration! The DIY Christmas bow string lights in the next featured image make use of LED lights, because they take longer to heat up. And that’s important when they are resting in a bouquet of ribbon! As stated in the tutorial at Studio DIY, do not leave this string of lights unattended for long periods of time: We end with a shimmering showpiece! The mirror garland and white light creation below is created with the help of an aluminum rod, mirror garland, and yes, white lights… A full tutorial atApartment Therapy explains just how this clever idea can result in an art installation just in time for the holidays!
South East Asia is indeed one of the world’s most favorite destinations when it comes to luxury holiday trips and ravishing resorts that help you detach from the hustle and bustle of your mundane life and offer you a breathtaking window into a stunning new world. The islands of the region set in the Indian Ocean are prime tourist destinations thanks to privacy they offer, the untouched natural beauty that surrounds them and the top notch service that getaways, resorts and hotels in the region offer. Villa Sapi on Lombok Island, Indonesia is another gorgeous and visually grand addition to this fabulous list of sumptuous retreats. The appealing villa, designed by Canadian architect David Lombardi, sports two modern structures that are designed to be both draped in opulence and distinct in their appearance. There is a constant sense of playfulness in their form as they seem to employ geometric shapes and patterns that break away from the conventional ‘cubic design’, which seems to be the order of the day across the globe for every modern edifice. The colors used inside also reflect the same liveliness as there is a generous splattering of red, lime green and black all around. The interiors are largely clad in a beautiful amalgamation of bamboo, water cascades and conceptual artwork, that bring a uniquely South East Asian flavor to the setting and invite the fabulous natural surroundings indoors. The best part about Villa Sapi is of course the breathtaking natural canopy that welcomes you all around, the amazing view of the sea that is constantly available for guests from the living quarters and the bedrooms and the glimpse of other islands and lush green vegetation in the distance that have a mystical aura about them. Decorative fish ponds, superlative backdrop, the alluring sight of the endless stretch of blue, the many sights and sounds of island life all packed into a rich and sumptuous holiday that pamper your senses and take away your worries- that is precisely what this Villa Sapi promises and delivers in style!
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