Home Decor Ideas

Day True recently completed the design of the Shoreditch Loft, a contemporary apartment with industrial influences located in London, UK. The London industrial loft was part of a full house project renovation; the client wanted to completely reorganize the structure of the living areas.

The architecture studio defines this project as having “a progressive and simple design that blends in the environment and enhances its architecture.” Without a doubt, some of the features that impacted the design scheme were the tall interiors, double-height windows and minimalist concrete walls, which stand out as you enter the apartment. 

One huge improvement was adjusting the position of the staircase. In doing so, the designers were able to expand the mezzanine level and add an extra bedroom. Custom-made wooden cabinetry units in the kitchen provide warmth to the open-space living area.

The clients are lovers of art, so they wanted an environment in which to display their artifacts and work. Decorative paintings, a traditional carpet in the living room and personalized wallpaper in the kitchen give this London industrial loft its jazzed-up, colorful look. For the bathrooms, the designers chose Brazilian blocks to divide the functional areas, in addition to industrial locks and fittings. Have a look and tell us what you think! Photography by Day True.

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Art galleries are a great way to arrange lots of smaller art pieces. But if you have large wall art that you want to showcase, you’ll have to go by a different set of design principles.

There are many reasons to hang large wall art; maybe you painted something yourself or purchased a special piece while traveling. You may also be going for a more modern style, which tends to emphasize minimalism. Large wall art is a surprisingly great way to optimize small spaces. By focusing on a few large elements, you leave the space looking more open and less cluttered.

Read on to learn about when, how and where to use large wall art.

Empty wall spaces between two doors were practically made for large wall art. Image: Ohara Davies-Gaetano Interiors

Look for sizable empty wall space for large wall art

Your first step is to look for a wall space that’s big enough to support the art. That may mean taking down existing art or reorganizing bookshelves and furniture. Likely spaces include walls in the living room or bedroom, space above a minimalistic mantel or areas between windows. You can also try accent walls or spaces in entryways.

The more empty a wall space is, the better. Combining large art right next to a massive window or over an ornate mantel may detract attention from the art itself, because the art has to compete with those other elements.

Large wall art makes a natural focal point in a room. Image: Coastech Constructions

Arrange the room around the art

Make the large wall art a focal point by arranging furniture around it. The photo above shows how you can arrange furniture in a u-shape around the art. This works especially well in spaces where the art is hanging over a minimalistic mantel.

You might also point a sofa toward the wall art or organize chairs to face it. Another option is to place chairs and sofas across the room from each other, with the wall art between them. If the wall art is in a bedroom, place it over the bed, so the bed faces it.

Don’t feel limited to just one canvas. Image: Restyle Interiors

Get creative by breaking up a single piece

Large wall art doesn’t have to be one painting in one frame, either. The photo above shows how one piece can be spread across a few different canvases. This is a good style if you are trying to cover a truly large wall. One piece can occupy several canvases in multiple frames to take on a whole different design.

Creative looks like this also add visual interest to a space. With this method, allowing the color of the wall to peek through gives the room a more cohesive appearance. Breaking up one piece of art into several different pieces also makes the art easier to transport.

Wall art doesn’t have to stay flat on the wall. Image: Matthews Studio

Don’t be afraid to go three-dimensional

Three-dimensional art is another way of expressing creativity in a room. Go for multi-tier canvases, dimensional panels as accent walls or art pieces of any variety that stick out from the wall. The texture adds visual interest and helps the art become a focal point, which is often the objective of large wall art.

In the photo above, it’s easy to see how a colorful piece in a room with a neutral color scheme helps the art become the focal point. Though black and white three-dimensional wall art is a stark design, it can also pop if placed against a backdrop like wood paneling or colorful paint.

Trail, road and bridge shots draw the eye. Image: Horrigan O’Malley Architects

Look for pieces that draw you in

A good way to make that large wall art a focal point in the space is to find art that draws you in visually. The photo above is a good example: The shot of the rope bridge extending into the distance invites the eye to follow and see where the bridge is leading. You might also try art of geometric optical illusions, nature close-ups or any other type of imagery you can’t help but stare at. (The need to keep looking may just be the definition of good art, after all.)

What type of large wall art have you incorporated into your home? Let us know in the comments section!

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Two of our favorite retailers have birthed a baby furniture collection. Named West Elm x Pottery Barn Kids, the new collab is clearly for parents who love mid-century modern design. The collection is now available online at West Elm and Pottery Barn Kids.

The new collection — tightly curated to only 50 items — gets its looks from West Elm and its quality from Pottery Barn. The pieces are practical and versatile, with unisex colors and multi-function designs that will grow with your baby.

How? Cribs transform into toddler beds, and changing tables are actually dressers once you pop off the removable changing pad top.

The crib can be converted into a toddler bed with the purchase of a conversion kit.

According to Williams-Sonoma, the parent company for both Pottery Barn and West Elm, the whole collection is certified environment-friendly. Wood items have water-based finishes, making the pieces Greenguard Gold-Certified for low chemical emissions. All bedding is made with 100% organic cotton.

The West Elm x Pottery Barn Kids line keeps things simple, with just four looks:

Warm mid-century

This crib features mid-century modern warm wood tones.

White mid-century

White tones freshen up this mid-century modern look.

Modern

A two-tone look of white and warm wood mixes with a clean, contemporary style and a touch of retro, thanks to the angled legs.

Audrey

This Audrey design is the most retro of the four, featuring a honeycomb design on the dresser and side panels of the crib. The pieces are available in white or mint green.

The website offers suggestions for West Elm pieces, like bookshelves or side tables, that coordinate seamlessly with the nursery line.

Here’s a look at some of the West Elm x Pottery Barn Kids baby furniture (and coordinating accents) you can buy now:

Which of these pieces would you like to incorporate into your new nursery? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Photography by West Elm x Pottery Barn Kids.

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A home search is likely daunting for first-time buyers. Image: Trickle Creek Designer Homes

For many people, a home search is an overwhelming process. After all, it’s a huge decision. It can be hard to sort out which qualities are crucial for a smart buy, especially for first-time homebuyers. Luckily, though, you don’t have to go through this process alone.

If you’re ready to start your home search but aren’t quite sure what you’re looking for, we’ve got your back. Below is a list of necessary criteria for a house that will suit your needs going forward. Familiarize yourself with the list so you know what’s important when it’s time to start looking at listings.

Make location your first priority. Image: Proyecto

Focus on location

Even if this is your first time buying a home, you’ve probably heard the phrase “location, location, location” before. The phrase is popular for a reason; the location of your new property is the most important factor in your home search. After all, it’s the one thing you won’t be able to change, so it’s crucial to be happy with it from the start.

First, consider the location of the home itself. Look at things like your commuting distance, the noisiness of the street outside the property and proximity to the highway. Then assess the surrounding area. Are you happy with the quality of the school district? How close are you to amenities like grocery stores and gyms?

Think about how many bedrooms and bathrooms you really need. Image: Heather Scott Home & Design

Make bedrooms and bathrooms count

After you’ve settled on an ideal location or target area, the next thing to consider is how many bedrooms and bathrooms you need. You’ll want to think realistically here; while it’s possible to add on more of these features at a later date, it’s also a huge undertaking. Many homeowners find that these additions aren’t worth the investment of time and money. It’s much easier to aim for the right number from the start.

Ask yourself: How many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need to comfortably fit your family, as is? Are you planning on growing your family within the next few years? Do you typically host a lot of overnight guests? Are they long-term guests that might benefit from their own space?

Remember, larger houses mean higher mortgages and more maintenance, which can overwhelm new homeowners. To keep yourself from taking on more responsibility than you can handle, focus on what your life will look like in the next five years or so, rather than long-term.

An ideal layout accommodates mobility restrictions or bedroom preferences. Image: helsingHouse Fastighetsmäklare

Evaluate the layout

Just as with a property’s bedroom and bathroom count, the layout of a home can always be altered, but it takes a lot of work. If you can, aim to find a home that has a layout as close as possible to the type you’re ultimately looking for, so that any necessary changes will be minimal.

Usually, when we hear about a home’s layout, it’s all about whether the main floor has an open concept layout or a more traditional, divided design. However, that’s not the only floorplan consideration to keep in mind. Think about whether you want a single- or multi-level home, if you’re looking for all the bedrooms to be on the same level or if you’d like a home that has a basement.

Resale value is a not-insignificant factor in your home search. Image: Pickell Architecture

Don’t forget resale value

It’s important to look at resale potential during your home search, particularly if you’re a first-time buyer. Conventional wisdom states that you won’t stay in your starter home forever. On average, buyers tend to stay in their first homes for about five years before moving on to a different property; in this case, it makes sense to plan ahead.

As for what determines resale value? Most of the time, it’s similar to the factors we’ve outlined above. A good location is key: Look for a home that’s either close to amenities like shops and restaurants or in a good school district. You’ll also want to consider what cosmetic upgrades — like bathroom and kitchen remodels — you can do to the home that might attract future buyers.

Take these factors into consideration as you undertake your home search. Image: F. M. Construction Ltd

Looking for your first home might feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the criteria outlined above, you can focus your search on homes that truly fit your needs.

Have you bought a home recently? If so, what tips can you share about your search? Let us know in the comments.

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Flavor Paper has taken Willy Wonka’s wallpaper idea to the next level (minus the licking). It’s released three scratch and sniff wallpaper designs that are cool enough to adorn the walls of any modern space. Tommy Hilfiger papered three of the bathrooms in his Miami home with the citrus design. Deeta Von Teese chose a custom cherry print. And Elton John went bananas for the banana wallpaper print.

One of Tommy Hilfiger’s contemporary bathrooms features the citrus scratch and sniff wallpaper. Image: Architectural Digest

The three scents and patterns are bananas, cherries and citrus in a variety of designs and colors. But how does the scratch and sniff work? Micro-encapsulated fragrance oils are hand-applied to the paper. When you scratch it, you pop open the tiny capsules and release the smell.

Here are some rooms featuring the scratch and sniff wallpaper:

The whimsical yet modern cherry pattern is the perfect backdrop in a bedroom featuring an upholstered headboard. Image: Flavor Paper

The banana-scented paper in a company’s conference room is a great ice-breaker. The paper features a seafoam-color foil background. Image: Flavor Paper

Cosmopolitan Magazine’s new hair and makeup room features the cherry-scented scratch and sniff wallpaper paired with one of Flavor Paper’s new designs: Marylin Monroe’s lips. Image: Flavor Paper

This modern San Francisco nursery adds fun and whimsy by papering the walls with the banana-scented wallpaper. The jungle-themed nursery is bright and colorful. Image: Studio Munroe

A Santa Monica loft features the cherry wallpaper on an accent wall, working in harmony with the red dresser. Image: Jessica Ayromloo

Eighties retro chic colors and patterns add fun and fashion to this desk area. Image: Flavor Paper

Would you wallpaper your space with scratch and sniff wallpaper? Which one is your favorite? We’d love to hear all about it in the comments.

The post This Modern Scratch and Sniff Wallpaper Line Is Literally Bananas appeared first on Freshome.com.

Home inspections are usually part of the process when you’re buying an existing home. If you’re building your home, however, your builder will coordinate any necessary inspections with the city, then schedule a walkthrough with you. The walkthrough is a vital part of the building process, so it helps to come prepared. As you tour your new home with your builder, you’ll get the 411 on all the features while making sure everything’s up to par. Knowing what to expect during your new home walkthrough means you’re ready to ask the right questions and turn the key on the finished home you’ve been waiting for.

Your new home walkthrough is the perfect time to learn about new appliances. Image: WORKS

The new home walkthrough process

Schedule between one and two hours for the entire walkthrough process. You’re not just touring the home before you close; you’re also learning about all of the features and functions in your home. Your builder needs sufficient time to go through the home so you’re comfortable using everything from the appliances to the thermostat.

The walkthrough usually involves the builder or superintendent, the buyer (you) and, if applicable, the buyer’s agent. Having all three parties present means that everyone’s interests are adequately represented. It also means getting all of your questions answered before your move-in date.

Check trim and paint for flaws. Image: Moser Architects

The steps

While each builder has a different walkthrough process, you’ll likely go over the same general areas. Here are some of the places your builder will check with you (and some things you can look out for along the way):

• Finish work. Most builders will mark off any cosmetic issues with blue painter’s tape. This gives a visual reminder of any finish work issues, such as scuff marks, paint touchups, exposed nails or uneven grout lines.
• Doors and windows. Your builder will show you how to operate all doors and windows, giving you the chance to make sure all of the seals are nice and tight. Check for drafts, gaps or windows that stick.
• Appliances and features. From the thermostat to your security system, the walkthough gives you the chance to learn about your home. Your builder will show you how to use all of the features and hand over any necessary manuals. Make sure you locate the electrical panel, fireplace controls, thermostat and security system panel, and ensure that you are comfortable in using each before you close.
• Exterior finishes. Your builder should take you outside for an exterior inspection. Check to make sure your stucco, stone, brick or exterior finish is smooth and even. Then check the foundation of the home to make sure the ground slopes away from the home. You can also grab a pair of binoculars to check the roofing; it should be consistent and tight without gaps.
• Warranty vs. maintenance. As you walk through the home, talk to your builder about the warranty. Most builders offer a one- to two-year warranty on things like electrical and plumbing systems. Cosmetic items that aren’t flagged during the walkthrough, however, might be considered “homeowner maintenance” once you close, so make sure you’re clear on what’s included in your warranty and what’s not.

Pay special attention to fixtures and tiling work in the bathroom. Image: designstiles

Buyer tips 

It’s easy to see your new home through rose-colored glasses. After all, you’re excited to move in, and correcting issues could prolong the process. But it’s best to take the time to resolve potential issues with your builder before you close. Otherwise, you risk having to deal with (and pay for) them yourself. These tips can help save you time (and headaches) during and after the walkthrough.

• Even if your builder marks off items with painter’s tape, keep a detailed written list of repairs and resolutions as you tour the home. That way, you have a written record of everything that needs to be done.
• Tour the home and examine the finishes from every angle. If you’ll be sitting on a couch in your new living room, crouch down and see what the home looks like from that level. You might notice flaws that you hadn’t seen while standing.
• Snap a few pictures as you examine the home, especially if you find flaws that require repairs. It’s easy to get so excited about your new home that you completely forget which areas needed attention.
• Don’t be afraid of speaking up during your walkthrough; your builder wants you to be happy with the finished product. A dent in your appliances or a scuff on the wall might seem like no big deal, but having it resolved during the building process means one less thing to worry about on moving day.

Arrive prepared

Even if your home clears inspections with flying colors, inspectors are there to confirm that a home is built to certain standards. They aren’t looking at the paint job or making sure you got the cabinetry finish you wanted. That’s why new home walkthroughs are so important: They allow you to advocate for yourself. While a few cosmetic flaws might set you back a week or two, it’s all part of the process. A new home walkthrough ensures that your builder has met your expectations and that your home is ready for you come moving day, so arrive prepared and you’ll be that much closer to your finished home.

Do you have experience with a new home walkthrough? Any tips to share? Let us know in the comments!

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