Home Bedroom Interior Design

Often times the bedroom is one of the last rooms to be decorated. You'll usually focus on the spaces that need a huge remodel such as that kitchen or bathroom. Plus, you want to focus in on the living room where your guests will be. However, the right bedroom interior design can help you sleep better and totally change your mood. It can be that finishing touch to your house as well as your secret getaway. You can accomplish this without spending a lot of money if you just follow these few tips.

One of the keys to bedroom interior design is to pick a defined style. Your style might just be a specific color or a feeling such as a spa retreat. Of course, you can also go with the basic decorating themes such as Tuscan, shabby chic, country, and traditional. Designing with a theme is really a great way for a beginner to get started because it will really help dictate all of your choices from furniture to bedding.

Sometimes less is more. You may feel a little bit discouraged and think that you can't do bedroom interior design just because you don't have several hundred dollars to spend on a new comforter. However, if you already have the focal point in your room you can probably just get away with a plain comforter or a white goose down blanket. It's important not to get discouraged and just focus on what you do have. When you really open up your eyes and start refinishing items and using basic DIY skills such as sewing and painting you can create a designer look for less.

Compromise is another element of bedroom interior decorating. You'll probably have to talk to your spouse about the colors and overall style of the room. It's important to do give-and-take so the finished product is a space that you enjoy and want to live in. He might not be convinced about pink walls, but maybe he's okay with a vase of pink flowers on the table. Remember to work together so that the outcome is something that you can both live with.

You might not even need to bring in anything new to do your bedroom interior. You may just need to take items out of the room. You can scale down your nightstands or even eliminate them completely if you don't use them. Get rid of any bulky furniture pieces and replace them with more petite versions so you get all of the function without all the clutter. This will help small rooms to feel larger and also provides you a free way to decorate.

Learn more about bedroom interiors. Stop by Sara Gilmore's articles where you can find out all about home bedroom.

The White House Interior Design

There is a lot of mystery surrounding the interior design of the White House. Many articles have been written in relation to this subject but no one really knows the aspect of the hundreds of rooms belonging to the Presidential house, except for the members of the first family and the national security agents.

The interior design of the White House is subject to constant modifications as each President tries to bring an improvement to the decoration. Nevertheless, it is only the private area of the house, that is, the rooms on the top two floors that can be freely decorated. The rooms where political affairs are usually discussed occupy the ground and the first floor and they preserve the historical aspect that was created by the first Presidents of the United States.

Visitors are not allowed to enter the private section, whereas the famous Oval room, Blue room and other similar chambers are often displayed to the entire public, especially during televised transmissions. Despite the different styles of the offices, the elements of the luxuriously aristocratic style seem to prevail throughout the entire house.

Royal chandeliers, natural fabrics and Oriental or Persian rugs are the elements that may be found in the decoration of every White House room. Since changes rarely occur in the public part of the house, many furniture pieces have been preserved since the beginnings of the White House, thus there are many interior ornaments and furnishings belonging to the Victorian age.

The only elements that are frequently changed in these offices are the curtains and the draperies. The officials choose to replace these items because this is the best method to change the aspect of the room without affecting the other elements of the interior decoration. It, nevertheless, takes a lot of effort to create new curtains for the Presidential house. Decorators use satin materials to create custom made curtains that can impress even the most luxurious Presidents of the world.

The White House is an example of stylish and refined interior decoration for conservative people who would like to arrange their house in a similar manner. People who can't afford expensive pieces of antique furniture may at least resort to one of the many fabric stores and order custom made curtains and rugs that preserve the aristocratic style worthy of Presidential houses.

Choose to buy curtains that fit your home perfectly and make it more lively.

Eastern Influences On Western Interiors: Japanese Decor - Part I of II - Color, Texture and Contrast

The topic of eastern influences on western interiors is a very broad subject. Many countries, such as China, Japan, Tibet, etc., have had an influence. Therefore, I have chosen to focus on one country for this article, Japan.

Characteristics of Japanese Interiors

1. COLOR:

Japanese interiors generally use neutral, natural colors, to provide a simple background. Interiors emphasize architecture, and as a result, provide a sense of geometric order. In addition, natural colors minimize a feeling of clutter, which is also essential to eastern design and its philosophy of simplicity. When a statement is made in a Japanese interior, it is usually through a single strong exclamation of color or a predominant texture.

Eastern art colors are pure. Unlike western art, which mixes color and refines sketches, eastern art is original. This means the initial color and/or brush stroke is the final result. Western art is often complex, whereas eastern art is simple, strong, and graphic.

Black is often considered a "non-color" in western society, yet, it is very important in eastern interiors. The use of black in oriental rooms lends definition and form. For example, black is a color in its own right, when used with white rice paper in a shoji screen.

2. TEXTURE & CONTRAST:

Some Japanese textures and materials that immediately come to mind are cedar, rice paper, maple, bamboo, stone, and woven wicker. One might also think of textured silk, tatami floor mats, and the elaborate needlework of kimonos and obi's.

Japanese culture seeks to balance opposites in all aspects of life (yin and yang), and interiors are no exception. Interior finishes can be highly opposing and contrasting, and yet achieve balance. Examples are, highly polished floors with heavily textured mats, a lacquered box displayed on top of a rough wooden table, or white pebbles on a polished black granite ledge around a tub.

3. DISPLAY:

Western homes typically use an object on the perimeter as a focal point, such as a fireplace, a painting, or an elaborate window treatment. Eastern interiors, on the other hand, focus on a central object, such as a hearth (irori), a garden, an altar, or an elaborate still life composition.

Japanese homes also commonly have display alcoves, called tokonoma. Objects placed in these alcoves generate two types of feelings, either (1) a natural or organic feel, by displaying an odd number of objects together, or (2) an ordered and disciplined environment by using an even quantity. For example, three calligraphy brushes in a cup would be organic, and four pebbles on a dish would be disciplined.

Japanese displays are fluid. In other words, a Japanese alcove may display a scroll one-week, and a set of pots the next. Eastern cultures tend to store and rotate objects. (This is probably for two reasons; (1) limited space, and, (2) visual pollution, outside the home, as the population increases.) Japanese displays are a reflection of the season, celebration, or honored guest. This minimal approach focuses on the quality and craftsmanship.

Instead of rotating objects, westerners tend to "display it all." (I guess its because they we're afraid someone whose given us something may come over and we won't have it out?) A westerner would also tend to add to a display to create a balance, whereas an easterner would create harmony by taking away. To easterners, less is more, order is harmony, and there is a place for everything and everything is in its place.

This concludes Part I. Part II of Eastern Influences on Western Interiors: Japanese Décor will focus on the Tea Ceremony, Furnishings, and Antiques or Reproductions.

Ideas For Decorating Small Spaces

Your home is where you relax and entertain so it's no wonder you want it to have top notch appeal. Yet, remodeling or renovating a living space that is small can be quite a challenge. Fortunately, there are some simple options due to the fact that there are many interior design tips now available for decorating small spaces.

You want to be positive to decorate for the size of your space. One substantial thing to avoid with small living spaces is clutter because it is apt to make the room appear significantly smaller.

Making good use of the area in your living space is critical so think about this when thinking about your room design. A stylish minimalist or Zen like decorating theme might work the best since it will be less cluttered thus making the room feel more spacious. Just be sure you choose an interior design you really like as this is where you spend a lot of time.

When purchasing furniture for your living space stick to accessories and furniture which are small sized. One method to make good use of space is to use a sofa and chair, as opposed to a sectional which will make it seem more spacious but still allow comfortable seating. All small scaled items can be monotonous and you might want to add interest by adding a few bigger pieces, so mix your diminutive sofa, use a large lamp or artwork- it can make the room appear larger plus add charm and character.

Another consideration for decorating small spaces is to take into consideration where the pieces are going to be arranged in the space. Even your living space can add to your well being when designed with Feng Shui in mind. Use furniture away from your doorways, as you'd be surprised how easier access to and from a room can make it look more spacious. If you could, focus the eye from the open door to a bigger piece like a which can help divert the eye and provide the illusion of a larger room.

The color palette is an additional essential cosideration when designing your living space. If you had always thought that you had to paint your spacially challenged rooms white, then here is some great news for you. If you don't want drab paint that is bland, go for using a monochromatic interior design in a beautiful color, or combine select colors which all reflect identical brightness. For a scheme that is more colorful gor for blues and greens that all reflect the same intensity or tone or to provide a soothing effect consider a monochromatic color scheme of pale blues. To add depth and drama, consider painting an opposing wall a deep, intense color - this makes it seem further away as well as adding an interesting atmosphere. A gray-blue shade is great for decorative charm and for also making the walls seem to recede, Therefore making the room appear larger. But then if that sounds overly boring, don't worry because cool colors such as purples, greens and blues also recede so you can use your wonderful shades without making the room seem diminished.

These tips allow decorating small spaces to be easy in addition to effortless. Purely because your living space is spacially challenged doesn't mean it can't acquire the same fabulous design style you see in bigger homes - it merely takes a bit of creativity and imagination.

Lee Dobbins writes for Home Decorating 2 Day where you can learn more about home interiors and get more great home decorating tips.

Home Interior Decorating For Beginners

When you first get started on home interior decorating, it is a good idea to have at least some notion of the kind of color scheme you might like. That is not to say that you can't change your mind while you are working out a plan. It is much better to change at this stage than when you already have the paint on the walls.

Good, well thought out interior decorating can add balance to a room and bring out its best features. Interior decorating should form the background for the way you choose to live in your home. If you've got a lot of books then it stands to reason that you will want plenty of good shelving. Plain wood shelves look best for this but if you already have some and they are beginning to look past their prime then play safe and paint them white. Think about the lighting in a room because this can enhance or detract from its overall design.

If you are not sure what color to use then play it safe and go for a neutral cream or magnolia - you can brighten it up with your soft furnishings and well placed lamps and ornaments. Many homes are a hodge-podge of furniture and decorating styles. If you replace furniture try to bear in mind the particular effects or style that you are trying to achieve. A well-chosen and well-placed piece can totally alter the look of a room.

Home interior decorating covers many aspects of the tasks. A lot depends on how much time you have to spare and what your budget is - whether you just want to spruce up a room or give it a whole new look. It is surprising for instance what new bath mats and towels do for a bathroom. Try sprucing up your room with some new cushions and perhaps a mirror or two. Move the furniture around and add feature wall paper on one wall - make sure that it tones in with the existing color scheme and you'll be surprised how much style this can give to a room.

Perhaps the kitchen is your bete noir? If it is you can do a lot with some new blinds and lampshades. Try some potted plants on the window ledge this can brighten most kitchens. If the paint-work really is past its prime then you need to decide whether you need a whole new paint job or whether you can get away with touching up the doors and base boards. If your bedroom needs a face-lift then try some new bed covers and toning curtains. Add a few cushions to your bed and you immediately have a more luxurious look.

Lee Dobbins writes for Perfect Home Decor where you can get more ideas on home interior decorating.

Damask Home Decor - The Do's and Do Not's of Decorating With Damask

The rules that govern the art of interior decorating are open to interpretation. Recently, damask has seen a resurgence in its popularity as a decorating material. This luxurious material is similar to silk in its texture, but the term may also refer to a style of weaving. Before an individual begins decorating with damask, he or she should sketch their floor plan, including the room dimensions, the window sizes and placement, and the location of special features, such as electrical outlets. Although damask is a highly versatile decorating material, it may behoove an individual to discover their own personal style by reading decorating magazines or attending floor shows.

When an individual is determining how to incorporate damask into the interior of their room, it is critical that the individual first identify the primary focal point of the room, such as a piece of furniture or a fireplace. It is also important that an individual define the style of the room in question. Most of these ideas are basic rules for interior decorating; however, these steps are also important when it comes to determining how to place the damask within the room.

The next step in learning how to successfully decorate with damask is for the decorator to choose a signature piece in the room to design their them around. Damask is usually incorporated into a room through drapes, table cloths, upholstery, and cloth wallpapering. Damask does come in a wide variety of color choices and patterns. Although damask may be incorporated into a room in multiple manners; however, it is important to ensure that the various checks, stripes, and other geometric patterns of the damask do not clash with one another within the interior of the room.

If a person chooses to incorporate a variety of colors and patterns of damask within the interior of a room, then the damask needs to be coordinated with one another by unifying elements, such as the trim color of wood, flooring, motifs, or other materials. A popular trick for decorating an interior with damask is engage the principle of repetition when planning shapes, colors, and patterns. Other elements of the room, such as the furniture being used or the lighting from various lighting fixtures, may play an influential role in how the damask is perceived in the room. It will also behoove an individual to purchase the highest quality of damask an individual can afford. The quality of the damask will determine the life of the fabric.

Impress your friends and family with the elegant, chic designs of damask decor and accessories. Shop our selection of Damask Home Decor today!

http://www.DamaskDecor.com

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Homeowners Tips For Residential Interior Design

Residential interior design should be looked at differently than commercial interior design. While people spend much of their time at their jobs, the home is the place where they go to feel comfortable and safe. Edgy design applications suitable for a business or workplace might not do so well in a home. This is, however, up to the individual person. Many people like an exciting design choice in their homes, whether it is an unusual color choice or themed decor. In the end, residential interior design choices are defined by the individual tastes and lifestyles of the people living in a given home.

When choosing residential interior design options, consider who will be using a room and what it is ordinarily used for. A room that plays host to only adults can have more exotic and fragile objects than one that is regularly used by children and pets. A light-colored carpet or silk throws would, for instance, be unsuitable if children are going to be using the room. They will be ruined within a few months, no matter how careful you are. A living room can have a more vibrant design than a bedroom, which is where most people go to relax and feel comforted at the end of the day. Strong tones, like red, are generally to be avoided in bedrooms.

Residential interior design should encourage easy movement throughout the room, but not allow it to feel like a hallway. One of the key examples of this design idea is the triangle arrangement in the kitchen. Major appliances and sites such as fridge, stove, and sink are arranged in a triangle so that there is little unnecessary walking needed to reach them. This also makes it less likely for two cooks to get in one another's way.

By paying attention to the wants and needs of the people who live in your house, you can succeed in residential interior design in your home. Go through the house and decide what purpose each room serves, and what design schemes would best complement that purpose. Make a plan for decorating each room, including the measurements of the room and any furniture you plan to keep in it. You can include catalog pages and color swatches in your plan, and take them to the store when shopping. This way, you residential interior design choices will be sure to balance one another when they are finally arranged in your house. Planning and attention to your wants and needs are important in successful residential interior design. With just a little care, you can create a stimulating and restful environment in your home that will appeal to everyone.

Lee Dobbins writes for Decor8ting - Home Decorating Ideas where you can get more decorating tips and find out more about residential interior design.

What Areas Make The Biggest Impact In Kitchen Interior Design?

When planning the layout or just redoing the decorating, taking on a kitchen interior design project is exciting. It is neat to see a project come to life and be finished under your watchful eye. Some people, though, may wonder what types of things they should include in their kitchen design. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Having an island in your kitchen is very popular right now. This is a functional piece to have, and will also increase the value of your home if you are looking to sell down the road. Some people like having their cook top located on their island. Others prefer it simply to be extra counter space. An island is a perfect food prep area. To make it fully functional you could make the entire countertop a butcher block. Installing a sink is also a good idea so you can wash produce right there.

Many people also have a bar type seating area at their island. This way family and friends can gather and visit in the kitchen while the cooking is taking place. You can even purchase islands that roll, so you can move it where you want it. This is perfect for small kitchens or apartments. Overall, you can't go wrong when you make an island a part of your kitchen design.

The right countertops can make or break your kitchen design. Even if you cannot afford a higher end material like marble or granite, you can choose a synthetic that gives you the look at a fraction of the cost. Granite countertops are the most popular and sought after countertops in kitchen design right now. They are attractive, durable, and functional. They are also, however, very expensive. Many laminates are made to look expensive, and are quite affordable. These also come in any color you can imagine, so you will have no trouble finding one that works with your kitchen.

Lighting is another aspect of kitchen interiors that should not be neglected. Good lighting is essential to a beautiful and functional kitchen. You want to aim for soft, even lighting. Steer clear of florescent lighting, as it is very harsh and unforgiving. It is very industrial, but not in a good way. Look for beautiful overhead fixtures that complement your kitchen's style. Pot lights are a nice way to achieve even, discreet lighting. They can also be placed on a dimmer to help enhance your mood. Task lighting is also important. This can be accomplished with the use of under counter lighting to illuminate workspaces. Another thing to consider is pendant lighting. Pendant lighting is most often used over an island or bar area.

There are many aspects of kitchen interior design. Look through some magazines and home improvement and decorating websites to get some ideas of what you like. This can help you get started on your kitchen interior design journey. Above all, have fun choosing exactly what goes into your dream kitchen.

Lee Dobbins writes for You Decorating - Home Decorating Tips You Can Use! where you can learn how to decorate every room in the house and get more ideas on kitchen interior design.

How To Add Charm To The Italian Decorating Style

To give your Italian decorating style that designer feeling, you must locate the most suited decorative accessories. In keeping with the sense of old Italy, you should plan to include robust and beautiful decorative items that have an Italian influenced charm. When shopping to spruce up your Italian design, you should use decorative items like artwork, knick knacks and pillows.

Hanging your prints and paintings the right way is key for the right look. Many homeowners arrange paintings and prints so that the top or bottom edges line up, but you'll want to arrange them so that the center of the pieces line up. When hanging many items in a group, it's a terrific idea to determine the configuration first by playing with them on the floor and reconfiguring them until you achieve that perfect look. To improve your Italian decorating style, try adding Ornate paintings and architectural pieces in grand fashion.

You may also decorate with carved wood, antique china, and alabaster items to build the look of old Italy. Be sure the decorative accessories you decide on do provide a coordinating theme or color as well as go with the interior design. Deploy on theme accessories only in order to be successful in the look and feel you are working hard for.

When looking for knick knacks for your decorating scheme be sure to buy ones that suit your design style and also show your individuality. To compliment your Italian interior decorating, think of using items with a robust and beautiful feel. Having marble figures on shelves can give you a fantastic look and so can gilded metal candle holders on the walls and tables. Spend time choosing appealing knick knacks that really display your personality. You don't have to spend too much dough to get fantastic items, try identifying a consignment store in town and you'll be pleased at the good quality items you can find for very little money.

To add softness and also enhance your decorating theme, decorative pillows may be a great choice. You can have a use for pillows in every room including the kitchen and bathroom. Pillows on your chairs or sofa should help bring the Italian interior decorating sense to the furniture. Pillows can add softness to the bath or kitchen - look at arranging one on the hamper or on a kitchen chair in a corner. Displaying decorative pillows arranged at the headboard of your bed is sure to add a fantastic professional appearance. Add an interesting touch to your design theme with pillows that use rich brocade fabrics.

Adding majolica pottery and wrought iron décor to your Italian decorating style will in effect help the room shine. Be sure you come up with a plan for what styles of pieces to purchase and focus on that plan. You would be smart to be sure also to take home items in the ideal sizes as well as proportions. This way you can be positive to get pieces which fit and look together perfectly.

Lee Dobbins writes for http://www.decorate-ez.com where you can learn more about different decorating styles and get more information on Italian decorating style.

Interior Home Decor - 3 Tips to Make Your Home Special

Your house is special. It's where you find comfort with family and friends, shelter and safety. This is the place you yearn to escape to after a hard day's work. Your interior home decor should be comfortable, and a reflection of your unique personal style.

Many magazines and home decorating shows will try to tell you exactly how to decorate your home. While these tips can be helpful, you should stick to what you love and what truly makes you feel at home. These tips will help you decorate your home in a way that is beautiful, functional and inviting.

Be original! Your friends and other guests will notice if your home's interior decor is unique and attractive. It will also showcase how original your ideas are.
Add your own personal touch. If you love tapestry, add colorful splashes with throws, wall hangings and rich colored pillows. An eclectic look can be wonderful, and provide a look that isn't the same old boring decor.
Functionality. Your home should be easy to navigate, not cluttered with so much furniture and accessories that your family and guests have to go out of the way or squeeze through narrow spaces to get where they are going.

The right accessories can really create a look that is totally yours. Mix and match, add rich textures and bold accents. Be creative! Don't be afraid to try different things, until you find that perfect look - the one that makes you feel happy, relaxed and right at home.

Your interior decor should be a reflection of you - the colors and patterns you love, the warmth of your personality. When it comes to personal style, forget the rules! Create a home that is unique, inviting and totally you.

To find out more about interior home decor and to pick up your free ebook on "Organizing Your Home" visit: http://www.TapestryBiz.com/HomeDecorTapestryBlog.

Choosing Accessories For The Mexican Decorating Theme

Decorative accessories are the highlights of any interior decorating scheme and could help pull your Mexican decorating theme together. In keeping with the feel of Mexico, you should plan to buy colorful and unique decorative accessories which provide a cheerful allure. Adding pieces like wall art, pillows and knick knacks can help add interest your Mexican design style.

Wall art is an integral element in any interior design, but your room will only look sharp if you hang it properly. When hanging art, think like a gallery and put the middle of the piece at eye level. Try laying a grouping of artwork out on the floor beforehand to develop the best configuration. The Mexican decorating theme can be improved with Mexican pottery plates which you can place in scrolly plate hangers and racks.

Other accessories that can help enhance the allure of Mexico include worm wood décor, stone fountains, and cacti. You would be smart to look for accessories that coordinate with your general room design. Deploy on theme accessories exclusively in order to get the look and feel you are trying for.

To add softness and also augment your design theme, decorative pillows could be a smart choice. Pillows can add value many rooms, the family room, the bedroom, the den and even the kitchen. If you can't afford new furniture for your living room or family room, decorative pillows can help give the mexican décor feel to your old furniture. In the kitchen or bathroom, a pillow insterted strategically on a hamper or chair can add a whimsical touch. Putting them in rows up against your headboard should lend a professional atmopshere to your bedroom. Add a comfortable appeal to your room style with pillows that have colorful ethnic prints.

When searching for knick knacks for your design style be sure to stick to ones that suit your design and also show your personality. To compliment your mexican décor, stick with accessories that have a colorful and unique feel. Using colorful Mexican pottery on shelvevs and tables or displaying wrought iron accessories displayed here and there. Here is where you can really make the design theme your own by selecting decorative pieces which reflect your individual style. If you have minimal funds, try shopping at garage sales and flea markets for terrific unique decorative pieces.

Making use of colroful tiles and pottery can add a professional style to your Mexican decorating theme. It's imperative, though, that you have a good idea of the kinds of pieces you seek so you can stick to buying specifically those that suit. Also, think about the sizes you need that will help compliment the room decor. Paying attention to proportion and size insures that you will have an interesting look in any interior decorating theme!

Lee Dobbins writes for 100 Home Decorating Styles where you can learn more about different decorating styles for your home and find out more about how to get a great look with Mexican decorating.

5 Reasons For Interior Designers to Attend Trade Shows and Festivals

While on the Internet and discovered a festival and realization hit upon me that how important it is for interior designers to go out and fine new design. As an Interior Decorator, one of the important things for every designer or decorator to do is to go out and see new products and services that could be of interest to new or future clients. This can be done by attending as many trade shows or festivals as possible. It is one of the ways designers get refreshed and energized is seeing new products and talking to vendors at these trade shows, educational classes, and festivals.

Take advantage of going to all the seminars. Some may be fun but others may be boring and hopefully you can take something away that you haven't learned. Talk to the people who are in the seminars so you can go to lunch or dinner with these people.  The information you as the decorator gains from the seminars and the people attending them will make the whole experience more enjoyable.
Network! This is a great way to expand your network and future client base while keeping in your files up to date on products or services .
 Some of the design trade shows have specific niches, whether its kitchen, bedroom or bathroom ideas, and not going to see them is limiting designer's viewpoint. As interior decorator, look for things that may work in current or future projects such as basic interiors, bathroom ideas, and kitchen ideas
The role as interior decorators is to bring the latest in ideas, trends and colors to our clients. If only magazines are read, or attend required continuing education, the designer miss out in seeing the new products and services made by the vendors.  A magazine is great but seeing it in person gives a better you a better idea of its size, color, etc. 
Interior design ideas becomes larger because an effort has been made to gone out and seen possibilities that we did not know existed. 

http://www.ontheinsidedesign.com

http://www.worldarchitecturefestival.com, http://www.dwell.com

Decorating Eco-Friendly - Taking Care of Your Home - Planet Earth (With Resources)

So how can you (savvy person that you are) help our environment? Think of the "R"s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, plus I like adding Redecorate, Re-energize, Revitalize!

Below are a few tips and ideas on how you can help our planet survive. Folks, it comes down to this - we either evolve or die. That simple!

We need to take positive action to have a better (healthier) planet and better (happier) you! So below are a few stylish ideas and tips on how you can help "your home" - planet earth. I am going to be revealing several websites, so I recommend that you read the entire article 1st then when go back to the websites that you want to check out further.

Should you use plastic or paper bags? Neither! Use reusable bags instead of plastics bags, which are not biodegradable. Most recycling companies do not accept plastic bags because they damage and clog their machines. Want a cool looking reusable bag? Then check out the Green & Gorgeous bag (that is the name of the bag!) at Vivre or my favorite grocery bag howgreenisyourbag.com.

Use bamboo towels. Yes, you read correctly - towels made of bamboo are eco-friendly, softer, and generally more absorbent than regular towels. Did you ever think you would dry yourself with "bamboo"? Well, now you can, and feel GREAT about it. Check out Brookstone to view their towel selection.

Get shower curtains that are eco-friendly and use no chlorides in its production. Look for the PEVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) tag.

Buy eco-friendly reupholstered furniture. Look for reupholstered furniture that uses soy foams (which contain no PBDE), other foams contain flame retardants that contain harmful PBDE. Check out the eco-friendly line at Crate and Barrel.

Protect your windows, your home, you by using film on windows to reduce the amount of solar radiation entering your home and thereby keeping AC costs low. Plus (big plus!), it protects you and your home from harmful UV rays. Other options are blackout lining and solar shades, which block solar radiation from entering your home, reduces your AC bill in the summer, and prevents heat from escaping in the winter.

Another way to take care of your home that is economical, saves about 75% of energy, and last about 8-10 times longer is using CFL bulbs (CFL = compact fluorescent bulbs). Be careful not to break the bulbs because they do contain mercury.

When choosing paint, make sure the VOC (volatile organic compound) is less than 100, which is safer for your lungs and our environment.

Organize green (with not just the color!). Even your organizational supplies and storage solutions can be instrumental in helping our environment. Go to thegreenoffice.com to see which organizational items they have that are recyclable, biodegradable, and have reduced chemical content. Another site with "cool" items is r-i-inc.com

Be proud to help our environment for it is our lives and our planet that we are trying to save and improve. Remember to live better!

© 2007 Ada's Interior Design, Inc. All Rights Reserved | Website: http://www.adasdecoratingsolutions.com

Ada Gonzalez is an interior decorator who designs solutions that provide comfort & function with a BIG SPLASH of style without having to spend hi-end prices on furniture & furnishings. Her designs have been featured in the Life & Style section of The Journal News, Sound Shore Express newspaper, and the Lohub Blog of Westchester County. In April 2007 she won a design competition called "Interior Motives". She was honored as an Interior Decorating Subject Specialist March and April of 2007 for DETC (Distant Education Training Council) helping perfect learning materials for interior decorating students. Her ezine called Smart Decorating!, which offers FREE DECORATING TIPS, is her way of helping people across the United States learn to comfortably live in and love their homes - to get more information on her ezine go to her website.

Email: ada@adasdesigninc.com
Web: http://www.adasdecoratingsolutions.com

Retro Decorating For The Basement

Your basement might seem dark and dingy, but you can make it a cool place to hang out with a timeless and modern retro decorating theme.

No matter what your budget, you can have a retro decorating theme in your basement with a few changes such as wallpapering and putting together your wall art and pillows to give the room a feel of the past that is also modern at the same time. Some accessories to pay attention to when changing your interior decoration include floor coverings, fixtures, decorative items and wall coverings in conjunction with your furniture such as sofas, chairs and tables.

It's not critical to have coordinating sofa and chair set but the basement should have a variety of retro style pieces. To really enhance the retro style, go for pieces with a vintage look but in new condition.

Decorative items are necessary to pulling your retro decorating style together. You can even totally alter the look of your room merely by replacing the accessories! Concentrate on using wall art, pillows and nick knacks, in that match your retro theme. You'll be amazed at how simple and inexpensive it is, and what a large difference these changes make! You should try to incorporate a variety of antique store finds combined with vintage pieces and you could even try some reproductions of vintage nick knacks and wall art to get a professional look for your basement. Incorporating additional decor such as yard sale pieces from other eras can make your room appear like it was done by a professional.

Window treatments are important to your retro decorating design. To get a nice design in your basement consider working with a genuine curtain or drape from the era that can still be purchased at yard sales and auctions for reasonable money or new window treatment made in the retro style. There are several treatments that you can match up to this design style, particularly if you match them to other elements in the room, however you probably want to avoid anything too modern.

One big task to think about when decorating your basement with a retro decorating style is your wall paper or paint. For this theme the room colors make a big difference - think about applying vintage color combinations and colors specific to the era. For 1930's you want green and cream, 1940's - red and white and the 50's and 60's orange, avocado and blue and brown as a paint color. Try using a vintage pattern wallpaper on the walls. It doesn't need to cost a lot and if you want plain colored walls, just cover the walls in a neutral paint and add the color in your accents.

What you put on the floor can really pull the whole look together, but if new floors aren't in the budget for your basement then just buy lots of area rugs with a retro design. If new floors are in your budget, check out vintage pattern linoleum or wood floors, or perhaps even a shag rug if you are going for a mid century look.

Lighting is necessary in any room and the basement is no exception. To enhance your retro decorating theme, you should think about lighting in terms of style as well as type. While you will be going for a retro style, you might want to look at using vintage lights with reproduction lighting but Always stay away from anything which is in poor repair. Most basements can benefit from recessed lighting in addition to table lamps.

A critical decorating area that we often forget when redecorating is the wall space. You can make even the plainest walls look nice by incorporating great wall decor. Try adding hanging vintage paintings or posters - either from the era or reproductions. to your basement walls to enhance the vintage appeal of your retro decorating style.

Decorating your basement with a great retro look can be as difficult or simple as you want it to be. Either way, attention to detail and matching your accessories and furniture will help you pull off a groovy new retro decorating look that will turn your basement into your favorite room!

Lee Dobbins is an avid decorator and love to explore many different style of interior decoration. Find out more about decorating every room in the house at Decorating How To.com

Interior Improvement: Cost and Duration

Apart from the knowledge of some, designing and decorating is a job anyone can do even on anyone's home interior. Because of the rapid growth of arts and recreation, almost all things we buy are manufactured with matching design and style. This shows that people are into creativity and beauty. Our homes are the most special place in the world. It is the place we spend time with to rest, sleep, eat, stay, and many more. It is even said that there is no place like home. That is why it is no wonder why even long before, houses are taken cared and beautified, even before they knew that what they are doing is an art already.

Whether you have just move in to a new house or you simply want your home to look better, your home needs to be decorated or redecorated. Of who will do the this task, that you will be your choice. Some people, if it takes much of their time or they are not good in managing designs and decors, prefer to hire a professional to do all things for them. But if you love mixing different decors and elements of arts together to form a unique and pretty view, you might just do it all yourself. In doing this, you save a good amount of money.

The interior decorating process lasts for hours or days. The process may include repairs, replacements, rearrangements, placing additional fixtures and furnitures, painting, etc which may cover only a single room like the living room or the entire house. Houses that need an overall interior improvement may take days to weeks to be all accomplished. Also, depending on the kind of improvements that will be employed, interior decorating may take longs hours to how many days.

Designing and decorating your home's interior is not without a cost. However, depending on the way you manage or budget your fund, there is a great range from where you can stay. The expenses may be small or great depending on the expenses that has to be incurred. Some improvement cost may even equal the amount enough for buying a new house. Some, though, have to expended of with lesser amount because there are not much that need to be bought. Instead of replacing old fixtures with brand new ones, why not recycle or repair them?

If you invest much in the improvement of your home, you must be planning to stay there for long. In case you change your mind and sell it, the improvements will increase its market value.

Pretty homes do not become one by means of large investments of money alone. Some pretty homes become such even when there is not much to spend. One important tip in interior designing and decorating is making use of old things. Those stuffs that you think are needed to be trashed can even be recycled and used again. Your walls or furnitures that are old may just have to be repainted. So, before starting the whole task, check your stuffs first and see which of them can still be used.

Lauren Laughlin enjoys writing for Myfirepits.com which sells fire pit and outdoor fire pit as well as a host of additional products.

Top 5 Interior Decor Tips For How To Decorate A Large Living Space

In contrast to the smaller living rooms that many of us grew up with, great rooms are perhaps one of the most exciting innovations in modern home design. Their open floor plans not only offer flexibility, but also a more efficient use of space.

They also come with a few interior decorating challenges. Many great rooms, particularly those in larger homes, feel more like an empty warehouse than an alternative to the traditional living room.

While too much space is never a problem, filling that space can be a real challenge. The proportions of the room can be overwhelming and furnishings that look right at home in an apartment or smaller home can look minuscule in a great room.

Some clever decorating tricks can help you warm up these larger rooms. Here are the top 5 tips on how to decorate a larger living space.

1. Settle on what the room is for, and then create living spaces around this.

Doing this will help you create either one space, or a 'series' of spaces to allow the room to fulfill this role. For example, if the room is to entertain, you can to create one or a few furniture groupings so guests can choose which setting to be in. If on the other hand, your room is for more than one function, you may want to create a space for each purpose. For instance, you may want to add a sofa and armchair grouping around a large screen television on one area of the room use the other area for more intimate gatherings.

2. Use large wall art to create a sense of atmosphere.

Large pieces of art such as paintings or wall art tapestries, are a unique way of creating a presence in any room including that large room. You feel as if you have walked into another world when surrounded by great works of art, as the wall art gives a focal point for the room and draws you into the picture. The entire feel and atmosphere of a room can be influenced by the use of large wall art.

3. Use pieces of furniture that will enhance a large room.

Great rooms will often require larger pieces of furniture than smaller living rooms. Use larger or wider sofas and armchairs, and coffee tables to fill the space. You can also use other 'feature' pieces of furniture such as a chest of drawers to fill an area next to a wall that require decorating. See which space needs filling in and then see which piece of furniture would suit that particular space.

4. You can be bold in your decorating ideas and scale.

Great rooms can benefit from expanses of color to make the space appear more intimate. You can compliment these with patterned curtains and soft furnishings to create a visual connection. You can use larger pieces of artwork, pottery or furniture than you would be able to, in a smaller area.

5. Try different arrangements of furniture.

When you have the space, try to arrange the decor and furniture in different ways. For example, try keeping the furniture away from the walls to create an intimate space in the center. You can experiment and arrange furniture in different positions to achieve both coziness and the freedom of enough open space, at the same time.

So there you go.

You now know the top 5 interior decor tips when it comes to decorating a large living space. By following these simple guidelines, you can create a great room that has the right balance of intimacy and open space for you. Take your time and use your imagination, and you'll achieve the interior decor feel that you're looking for.

Tom Matherson writes for Worldwide Tapestries which offers a wide collection of Belgium tapestries and throws to enhance any home. See the latest range of wall decor including a wide range of large tapestries to transform any room or home setting.

Interior Design For a Small Apartment

Apartments demand a special interior decorating touch. You must take away the feeling of an apartment by decorating your space without running afoul of the landlord.

Most rentals are often faced with the same lighting fixtures, wall colors, carpet, flooring and cupboards. You can express your creative idea by add in touches that look permanent but actually are not.

Since your landlord might not even let you paint, you can apply large wall stickers, such as poppies that reach from a floor to ceiling to add color to bland walls while giving your space a hand painted effect.

Maybe you need to ask permission to hang up curtains for a homey touch. Many landlords will ask that the lining of the curtains be white so it matches the rest of the window treatments in the building.

One simple thing that adds a huge change for overall appearance is making a statement with furniture. You should spend a little more money to get pieces with style. Look at the overall area building design to take the idea of your furniture and decorating style.

For example, if you live in an art deco building or sleek pieces, just look for curvy line. If you are decorating a building in a modern style for a cohesive look, try to stick with stainless steel legs.

You may be able to get a smaller scale sofa that won't overwhelm the space. Try to use one ottoman instead of two or fewer side tables and floor lamps to free up the floor plan. Having a platform bed may make a room feel bigger than a regular four poster bed that is important so your space does not feel like an interior design living room.

Achieve the look of color. Even when you do apartment interior decorating you might feel like your house is still white and bare. Select for painted furniture pieces with color so the white walls look intentional such as pottery or hanging colorful plates on the wall.

You can find another interior design ideas for your small apartment, get in interior design room.

Interior Designing and You

House owners from all around the world are turning to professional interior decorators because they are tired of living in the same old house for years and years. Although interior decorators have helped them in every way possible, they also charge a hefty amount as their fees. So why not try something that gives you a new look to your house and also saves you a lot of money. This can be possible only if you are willing to take up the entire affair of interior designing on your own hands. Following a few steps can help you achieve this feat within a matter of days.

The first step towards a successful designing attempt is to have a proper plan. Until and unless you have a plan you won't be able to reach your goal. Now planning may be one of the toughest challenges you face during the stint as an interior decorator. But don't worry as there are abundant sources of information that can help you in more ways than one. Home improvement magazines and television shows on interior decoration can help a lot in providing information about the changing styles and trends in the society. You can also learn about the decor items or furnishings you need to look for while designing the look of the house.

Internet has become also a major contributor in helping out the likes of you when they decide to take up interior decoration on their own hands. A number of websites offer valuable tips and tricks about how to complete the entire task without breaking a sweat. Compiled by a team of competent experts in the field of home improvement, these databases are being used as reference points by millions all around the world. Apart from these there are also a whole bunch of public blogs and discussion forums where users discuss about the intricacies of interior designing. So try and register yourself in one of these platforms and you may updates about the regular development in the world of home improvement.

Internet has also become a good source of resources and furnishing products. More and more buyers are flocking to these online stores to get their hands on the latest products in for decorating their house. The best part about these online stores is that you get the best products at the best possible prices. Don't be concerned about the quality of these products if you chose to buy them from a renowned online vendor. But before you make the payment make sure you go through the company background and shipping policies of the company. Place your order and the products reach your house within weeks. With the approaching festive seasons this is the best time to buy as most vendors are offering special holiday discount packages to buyers.

If you consider online shopping as risky business then stick to the good old local markets. You can always find some very good home furnishing stores around your house. These stores contain extensive collections of carpets, curtains, door, handles, window blinds etc. You may even find a whole lot of stylish appliances and accessories for bathrooms and kitchens.

Terrys Fabrics specialize in the distribution of blinds, roller blinds, roman blinds and Vertical Blinds within the UK.

An Easy Living Room Interior Decorating Plan

When you are into redecorating and making your home look nice, you probably love to change your living room interior decorating theme often. To make this easier, it is important to have a simple plan to follow each time you feel like changing everything around. Here's some tips on how to build your décor so you can change it at any time, without having to spend a bundle of money.

Backdrop

If you want to change the look of your living room a lot then you need to start with a neutral palate. You don't have to keep all of the walls white and the couch cream colored, but you should keep everything pretty neutral. You can choose browns or greens if you want color, but avoid anything to bright or flashy. As long as you stay away from patterns however, you should be able to have several different choices for your décor.

If you keep the big things like furniture, walls and flooring in neutral tones, you'll be able to change out the theme of your living room interior décor by adding accessories like rugs, pillows and wall art in the colors that you want. Another great ideas for sofas and chairs is to buy slipcovers - you can actually buy furniture that is meant to be slip covered, then simply get new slipcovers to go with whatever decorating plan you have in mind for the season!

Accessories

When you have a neutral palate to work with, you can change the way your room looks just by replacing a few basic items. For instance, you should only need to change your curtains, pillows, and a few room accessories when you get the urge to switch things around. If you want your living room interior decorating to be a little lighter for spring, you can add sheer curtains, flowered pillows, and a vase of fresh flowers for a quick change.

For a warm winter look, bring in deep reds, golds and greens in heavy fabrics like velvets and chenille's. try some oriental rugs on the floor and oil paintings on the walls. Adding some candelabras and candleholders around the room will help to give it a cozy look.

Lighting

While track lighting and chandeliers can't be changed easily, you can change out your lighting to go with your living room interior decorating plan. You can buy all new lights, or use lights that have neutral bases and change the shades out depending on the look you are going for. Need a fresh look for spring? Use plain white shades. Going for a safari look? Get shades in an animal print. How about a romantic look? Try putting on shades that have a floral print with some dangly fringe. You'll be surprised how much changing the shades can transform a lamp.

If you love to keep your living room interior decorating plan flexible, you must be sure you never commit to something difficult to work with, such as a patterned couch or a bright chair. Don't be afraid of color, but add it to your room with accessories that can be replaced when you want something a little different. It really doesn't take a lot of money to get a new look, just a little creativity.

Lee Dobbins writes for http://www.decoratinghowto.com/ where you can learn more about decorating styles for every room. Visit their article pages to find out how to decorate your living room in many different styles.