May 24, 2013

Sparkle and Shine Glass Bubble Chandelier

bubble glass chandeliersLet’s face it…bubbles are just fun. They can seem magical defying gravity. Remember William Shakespeare’s words from Macbeth “bubble, bubble, toil and trouble….”? In every day life they can represent a relaxing time in the bathtub, fun in the park as a kid or romantic nights with champagne bubbles tickling your nose. What better way to bring the magic of bubbles into your home than with a glass bubble chandelier.

Lighting is a key element in the interior design of a home. It provides needed illumination for reading and other tasks, lights stairs and hallways for safety and can certainly affect the mood of a space. While somewhat whimsical in design, a glass bubble chandelier can still meet all those lighting needs. Use it in several rooms in your home to add a fun touch to a functional item. For example:

• Chandeliers are most often hung over a dining room table. These colorful spheres will create a magical reflection during meal time and enhance the overall décor of the room.
• A chandelier hung over the bathtub is truly a luxury. Place it on a dimmer and it can be used to read and relax in a bubble bath or will create a romantic spot for the two of you to wind down and reconnect after a hectic day. Note: Be sure to check with your local county regulations regarding lighting fixtures in the bath before you hang it over a water source.
• Children, especially little girls, would love a sparkly chandelier in their room. Imagine the dreams they can come up with while staring at the shiny bubbles hanging above them.
• Hang this glass bubble chandelier in your entry and create a wonderful space to greet your guests. It will certainly set the tone for the rest of the house.

No need to worry about whether this lighting fixture will work in your home. This unique chandelier is appropriate for many different design schemes. It will certainly enhance the shiny surfaces and sleek lines of a contemporary space but can create an unexpected surprise when used in a traditional setting. The unusual design, colors and materials used become a piece of artwork regardless of what your preferred design style is or where it is hung.

Maximize your View with new Deck Railing Designs

glass deck railingsRegardless of whether your outdoor living space is an expansive deck overlooking a cool mountain lake or a small terrace above the garden, you want to enjoy as much of the view as possible. You can accomplish this by replacing old wooden deck railings with new designs that will maximize your view and enhance the look of your home.

While the standard redwood railing and baluster system may work for you there are other options.

• Glass is a relatively new material being used in hardscape design and there are several ways to utilize it.

o Solid tempered glass panels will open up your outdoor space and allow you to see as much of the view as possible. These panels can be supported by modern materials such as stainless steel for a crisp, streamlined look or combined with wood for an eclectic look. A clear glass panel provides the best view but bronze and smoked glass is also available. Regular cleaning of these panels is necessary in order to enjoy your beautiful view.

o Glass balusters are small panes of glass set into a railing system like regular wood or iron balusters. They provide a clean and modern look without having to use solid glass panels. They, too, are tempered for safety and allow you to enjoy an unobstructed view.

• Iron railing systems have been popular for many years. They are a nice complement to a Spanish or Mediterranean style home and work well with all types of wood. The balusters can be straight up and down or have fanciful scroll work. The most popular color is black but the iron can be painted or powder coated any color you desire. For example, you may want to use a forest green so the railing system blends in with the outdoors. Or perhaps a soft sand color complements your limestone decking and the sandy beach below. The wrought iron can also be fully customized to create a unique, one of a kind look. Adding a centerpiece to your railing system that has been customized with a monogram or favorite symbol such as an animal or flower will really personalize your outdoor living space.

Whether you are entering into an entire landscape project or just want to update your existing deck, new railings will improve the look of your home while making it possible for you to enjoy the fabulous view of the mountains or the city lights below.

Let it Shine with High Gloss Furniture Trends

furniture highgloss fashionShine is in. We love shiny jewelry, shiny shoes and shiny glass. For a twist on the traditional why not add some shine to your furniture by upholstering it in a trendy, high gloss fabric such as vinyl or patent leather? It will add a sophisticated look to many areas of your home.

Vinyl is an affordable alternative to leather, is durable and easy to clean. But, best of all, it comes in an array of shiny colors that will complement your décor.

• Cover your barstools in glossy red vinyl for a retro look in your family room or bar area.
• Upholster your breakfast room chair seats in bright yellow vinyl for a sunny greeting in the morning. And since vinyl wipes clean with a damp cloth, no more worries about syrupy hands on your upholstery.
• Colorful vinyl bean bag chairs offer additional seating for family movie night or those noisy slumber parties.
• Upholster a daybed or small couch to add a grown up feel to a teenager’s bedroom. The vinyl can withstand the wear and tear it is bound to receive.

Patent leather

Patent leather is “real” leather that has been given a high gloss finish. It is often used to make shoes, handbags and belts. However, this durable fabric is now making an appearance on furniture.

• A set of patent leather chairs will turn an ordinary dining room into an extraordinary space.
• A settee covered in high gloss patent leather will add a sexy touch to your master bedroom when placed at the foot of the bed.
• Place a patent leather ottoman in your den for a bit of shine next to the matte finishes of wood and leather.
• A ladies home office can be dressed up with a high gloss office chair. Choose crisp black leather for a sophisticated look or, for a rich and luxurious feel, choose a soft cream color.
• Upholster a headboard for the dancer in the family. The shiny black patent leather will mimic the look of her favorite tap shoes and add interest to a fun, dance-themed bedroom.

This is a fun trend that can be easily incorporated into your current decorating plans. Just let your creativity be your guide.

Sweet Shop Christmas

ornaments_icecream_christmas“Visions of sugarplums danced in their heads”. These lines from Clement Moore’s “Twas the night before Christmas” pretty much sum up our fascination with sugar, especially during the holidays. A holiday sweet shop theme includes items like candy, pastries, ice cream and chocolate and will add a yummy touch to your holiday decor. Fortunately for your sweet tooth, there are many ways to incorporate these sugary delights into your holiday decorating.

1. Ornaments in ice cream cone shapes make delightful gift tags and the glitter “sprinkles” add a bit of shine
2. Artificial holiday candies can be scattered around a table or used as a colorful vase filler.
3. Craft stores offer candle rings and spray picks that mimic the look of chocolate. Use these to decorate your dessert table or tuck them alongside a cake plate for a beautiful presentation.
4. Decorate a wreath for your kitchen or breakfast room using candy picks and small ornaments and wrap it with a candy cane striped ribbon.
5. No sweet shop Christmas theme would be complete without the iconic candy symbol of the holidays–the candy cane.
• Glue bunches of these to an old container to create a mouth watering vase.
• Use candy cane ornaments as place cards at your holiday meal and your guests can take them home as party gifts.
• One large candy cane hung on the front door offers a hint to your guests as to what awaits them indoors.

6. Scatter gold glittered ornaments, fillers and craft picks among your sweet shop ornaments for a sparkly addition to your decorating.
7. Jewel tones will add an unexpected pop of color. Ruby red, sapphire blue and emerald green coordinate beautifully with the colors found on your confections.
8. If your child is having a birthday party during the month of December, send the kids home with an ornament in the shape of a cupcake or other holiday treat.

A sweet shop decorating theme will delight adults and kids alike and the best part—no calories!

Protect your table with themed Game Drink Coasters

bingo_drinkcoastersMen have figured it out. There is no better way to spend a fun evening than sitting around a game table with a group of family or friends, playing cards and enjoying delicious snacks. The game can be poker, bingo or even monopoly with your kids. The idea is to enjoy each other’s company and create a memory or two. However, you will want to protect your furniture from all those white marks left by wet glasses and drink coasters are the perfect solution. These fun and functional items are available in many different designs suitable for any game night.

Bingo

Bingo is simple to understand and easy to play, making it a perennial favorite for people of all ages. These tumbled marble coasters are made to look like vintage bingo cards and are perfect as a hostess gift or a prize at your next bingo match. The corked back will absorb moisture from a wet glass and also protect your wood or glass surface from scratches.

Family game night

What better way to spend time with your kids than gathered around a table playing a game. It can be a sophisticated card game with your smart teenagers or it can be something simple like Go Fish! with your little ones. The goal is to spend quality time together. One of the best and the worst parts of family game night are the snacks and drinks. Cold, wet glasses can wreak havoc on your furniture. Use coasters with monopoly game emblems on them, for example, to set the theme and eliminate any worries about water stains on your wood table.

Entertaining at home

Regardless of whether it is your husband’s turn to host the weekly poker game or your turn at Bunko, you will want to protect your furniture from the messes and spills that go along with entertaining. Using a set of coasters that reflect your theme is a fun way to set the mood for any game. These coasters will protect the surface of your furniture from scratches and water marks and are a cute accessory. (One piece of advice, don’t use the word cute for a poker game) Drink coasters are available in card suit designs, chess pieces and king and queen crowns. They can also be personalized with your initials, team colors, logo etc.

The recipe for a perfect evening at home includes family and friends, a fun game everyone can enjoy, delicious snacks and drinks and, to keep it worry-free, a set of drink coasters to protect your furniture. All that is left to day is win the game!

Vintage Light Bulbs | A Re-Use Christmas Gift

lightbulb_vintage_christmas_ornament200In today’s renew, reuse, recycle climate it is difficult to throw anything away, even a burned out light bulb, without experiencing some sort of guilt. But there are many fun ways to turn a burned out incandescent bulb into a beautiful holiday ornament or Christmas gift.

Paint, glitter, beads…oh my!

All it takes is a little bit of craft paint, some glitter and a few beads to turn an old bulb into a thing of beauty. Be creative and let your inner artist shine through by painting zigzags, circles and other simple geometric designs onto a painted surface. Attach some colorful beads with wire and you have a one-of-a-kind ornament to give as a gift.

The shape of the bulb is perfect for a Santa Claus or friendly snowman. You can even add pipe cleaner antlers to create Rudolph.

Personalize

Add a simple monogram for a truly personalized gift. You can download any font type you choose and use as a template on your painted light bulb. Make one for each member of the family, pets included, and create a namesake tree, give one to the teacher or use as your “secret elf” gift at work.

Using the socket as a “neck” paint the bulb to represent certain members of the family. For example, add a beard and a bald head for grandpa, eyeglasses for Dad, curly hair, blue eyes, freckles etc. Attach a ribbon to the top as a hanger.

Paint a bulb to look like something important to a friend or member of the family and add their name. For example, paint a tennis racket for Mom who plays every Tuesday. Dad will enjoy a baseball ornament with his name on it and if Billy is the next David Beckham create a soccer ball ornament for him. You get the idea.

Family fun night

What with sports, music lessons, sleep overs etc. it is difficult to get the whole family together for an evening. But the kids will be excited to stay home when they get to participate in a craft project. Cover the table with an easy to clean vinyl cloth and spread all the supplies out. Let the kids choose their idea but be careful when little ones are handling the light bulbs. Now paint, glue and decorate away. Not only will you be creating beautiful ornaments and gifts but you will create special memories at the same time.

Christmas is a time of giving and what better way to give back to Mother Earth than by recycling and repurposing old items like burned out light bulbs.

Bringing Outside Gardens Inside With Terrariums

It is possible for you to enjoy the lush greenery of plants all year long through the use of indoor gardens, sometimes called terrariums.

A terrarium is defined as a small enclosure in which certain plants (and small animals) can be raised. Over time they actually create their own little weather system that makes it possible for the plants to receive the correct amount of moisture and humidity. Most indoor gardens are kept in a glass enclosure to allow the plants to receive proper light for growth and also make it possible for you to view and enjoy the garden. You might consider using fish bowls, glass bell jars, a dish with a cloche (clear glass cover) placed on top, an aquarium or other discarded glass pieces. Vintage iron furnishings with glass sides can house many plants and create a beautiful focal point in your home. An old metal birdhouse can be turned into an indoor garden with the addition of some glass sides and a removable top. Just be sure that your garden has a lid that can be removed to adjust humidity levels inside the enclosure.

Choosing the correct plants for an indoor garden is important and should be based on the amount of light and humidity that is available. Some species to consider are:

Moss
• Ferns such as the delicate looking maidenhair and asparagus fern
• Ivy
Succulents like the jade plant
• Household plants like philodendron and begonias
• African violets for sweet color

If unique and exotic is what you are seeking there are many species that can thrive in a terrarium setting.

• Consider the carnivorous Venus fly trap for a truly unique plant.
• The cobra lily will add an interesting shape to your indoor garden.
• In spite of the name, the rattlesnake Orchid is a beautiful plant.

For proper growth your terrarium should have a bottom layer of rock and gravel for drainage, a layer of moss to prevent soil from accumulating in the drainage area and a top layer of soil. It is important that your plants get along. If they are not compatible i.e. needing the same amount of light and humidity as well as type of soil, then your indoor garden will not survive.

If you have done your homework and chosen the correct plants, soil and enclosure your indoor garden will require minimum care and provide you with years of year round beauty.

Bewitching twig furnishings for the home

twig_branch_decor110Natural and rustic furnishings and accessories are all the rage this year and items made from twigs are appearing everywhere. Vases, accent furniture, tabletop items and holiday decorations are all found sporting this very earthy accent.

Add texture to your fall or holiday table.

It is easy to add some interesting texture and dimension to your holiday table using twigs.
• Place a small glass hurricane inside a twig basket to hold flowers or candles. This turns the ordinary votive or candleholder into something interesting and unique.
• Twigs can be intermingled with leaves and seasonal items for a beautiful centerpiece. Simply lay them lengthwise across the table and scatter the other items around.
• Doll house size twig furniture can be used to hold candles, salt & pepper shakers or as place cards for your guests. These can often be found in the garden section of your favorite home store.

Natural Holiday Decorations

In response to the consumer’s desire for rustic items, many manufacturers are offering holiday decorations made from natural materials. This season you will find Christmas trees and other seasonal items made from dried twigs. If you are celebrating in a mountain cabin or just want a beautiful centerpiece for your entryway, these twig trees are the answer. You can leave them in their natural state and use them year round or spray paint them for some sparkle. Add some vintage bulbs and you have a real conversation piece.

Tall curly willow branches can be placed in a tall container to fill an empty corner in your room. Add twinkling lights to create some holiday ambience.

Outdoor Furniture

Twig furniture pieces can become real collector’s items. The cutting, drying and assembly process is often done by hand. You will find beautiful garden benches as well as chairs and tables. The airy, open weave will add interest and texture to any patio or deck area. Simply add a comfortable cushion and you have a lovely spot to sit and read or share a drink with friends.

Twigs can be found in florist supply shops, craft and home décor stores but the best place to find them is in your own backyard. Make it a family project to gather twigs and turn them into something special for your home and create a special memory at the same time.

Rail and Nautical Ship Industrial Salvage

The railroad has always held a romantic allure for many. The sound of the train’s whistle in the distance and seeing the tell tale red light of the lantern on the caboose as it sped by made many young men dream of hopping a train that would transport them to a faraway place someday. Those lanterns that disappeared in the distance so long ago have become a popular item for history buffs as well as collectors.

Add a touch of Railway history to your home décor

• Hang these lanterns outdoors and enjoy the red glow from the colored glass
• Place a pair of lanterns on your fireplace mantel in a casual family room
• This is the perfect accessory for a lake or mountain cabin
• Place one in the bedroom of that future Henry Flagler you have in your family and let him dream of traveling the railways
• If you are lucky you may run across a salvaged signal light that features red and blue glass lenses. This would be the perfect gift for the railroad buff or frequent traveler

Sail the High Seas with nautical industrial salvage

Just as many young men dreamt of escaping on the railroad others dreamt of sailing the seas to exotic ports of call. Nautical salvage comes in the form of many items found on large passenger ships and includes:

• Passageway lights to rewire and use as porch and deck lighting.
• Large deck lights
• Old signal lights that make interesting shelf décor
• Lanterns that were used on the decks can be used as backyard décor and are the perfect accessory for a beach house or on your own yacht

Many of these fixtures have interesting metal bars protecting the glass. They are most often found in copper and brass that offer a beautiful shine and patina. You can also look for other nautical salvage that includes compasses, portholes, ship’s wheels, bells and the popular glass floats and jugs entwined with rope.

The use of both rail and nautical industrial salvage as home décor is a popular way of recycling items while protecting and preserving the memory of a magical time long ago.

Spiller, Thriller and Filler | Eye Catching Container Gardens

containergardens_homefashion_spillerthriller110Container gardens make it possible for you to surround your home with flowers and plants and express your creativity at the same time. And you don’t even need a green thumb. You can grow flowers, herbs, even vegetables in containers with just a little bit of effort. To create a pleasing look it is a good idea to layer your plants to vary the texture, color and size.

Spillers

Spillers will be the plants and greenery that cascade out of the potting soil and over the edges of your planter. Some good choices for “spillers” are sedum, amaranthus, ivy and creeping thyme. These plants not only soften the edges of your container, they add an interesting shape and color to your overall “garden”.

Thrillers

The thrilling part of your container garden is usually the centerpiece plant. This is the largest plant in the container and sets the “theme” of your garden. Choose spiky succulents and waxy cactus for a southwestern look or you just want an easy to care for garden. For an exotic touch, add lavender, orchids or peter pan agapanthus as your “thriller” plant. These will stand tall in the container and look regal when surrounded by other greenery.

Fillers

Your filler plants will sit in between the star of your garden (the thriller) and the spiller plants and they should be chosen to coordinate with the colors of the other plants. Some good filler choices are fuchsia, lantana and coleus. All of these plants are interesting with or without blooms and will fill up that bare space in your container.

Containers

You can’t have a container garden without a container. Some things to remember when choosing a container:

• Proper drainage is a must. If your container is sitting on the ground, raise it up with bricks to allow water to fully drain.
• Choose a container with a wide opening to accommodate all your plants.
• Be sure the container is deep enough for the roots to grow properly.
• All container materials have pros and cons. For example, wood rots over time but comes in many different sizes; terra cotta is inexpensive but absorbs the plant’s moisture and the clay may dry out; plastic is affordable but can break down quickly from the elements and ceramic is durable but often needs additional drainage holes.

Have fun with your container garden. Create some personality with the different seasons and remember, children love to create and grow gardens so make it a family affair.