Ceiling Decoration Ideas

When it comes to ceiling decoration ideas, inspiration can come from anywhere, like a paint color, a piece of furniture, or even a specific design aesthetic. Since the ceiling is the single most expansive surface in a space, we have some tips. Regardless of your design preference, it’s easy to incorporate subtle simplicity or striking sophistication into your ceiling design. While flexibility can be achieved with nearly every design aesthetic, it is helpful to know which application, features, and styles are most important before selecting a new ceiling.

• Living Room: Add a classic yet stylish design to your living room or open family room ceiling space with surface mount ceiling planks. Have a simple look with so many color options while coordinating with your own individual style. It’s so versatile that you can transform from traditional farmhouse into industrial chic simply by incorporating elements of your design with furniture or lighting selections.

• Dining Room: If you prefer to have a formal dining room, make the ceiling the focal point. For example coffered ceiling panels add an entirely new level of sophistication and elegance for your dining room. One of the newest and coolest dining room ceiling applications is a ceiling accent cloud using metal nail-up tiles. It adds a little drama and shines the light over your dining room table.

• Kitchen: The kitchen is an ideal room to add instant appeal because it’s generally the gathering place and by default, the heart of your home. Everyone will take notice when you add a wooden plank ceiling or create a dramatic visual with surface mount metal tiles either on the ceiling or as a backsplash. You may also, highlight a kitchen island or eat-in area with a pop of metallic that shows off style and adds interest.

• Bedroom: It is preferable to transform your bedroom into a sanctuary space with a direct-attach ceiling. You may either add warmth to your bedroom by natural walnut surface mount ceiling planks or brighten your space with classic white. Also, its recommended for converted basement bedrooms to have a decorative white drop ceilings that will give you the accessibility needed to get to pipes and wiring, and also spruce up an old drop ceiling without replacing the whole thing. 

• Home Office: Your home office may be one of the last rooms on your mind when it comes to ceiling decoration ideas. However, it is probably one of the most important spaces in your home, especially if you have a home-based office. Adding decorative acoustic panels can create a beautiful space and reduce noise by up to 70%. 

• Bathroom: It is necessary when you have a decorative ceiling idea for your bathroom to do a good research on the type of materials that work for your space that can save you headaches down the road. Not to forget that mold and mildew can appear in areas of a home where moisture is present and ventilation is limited like a bathroom or basement, hence moisture, sag, and humidity-resistant ceilings are necessary to be used.

Easy Ways to Create a Calm and Peaceful Home

As the place where you often escape after the stress of work or hectic woes of life, your home needs to evoke a serene atmosphere and help you recharge from the day. Your home can either nurture and support you, or deplete your energy and leave you exhausted. In today's frenetic world, it is more important than ever to create a calm and peaceful space that allows you to recharge. Hence, creating a tranquil house goes beyond your design aesthetic and objects within a space; it starts with simple, mindful practices that allow you to feel stress-free. No matter your lifestyle, here are few practical ways to transform your home into a balanced and peaceful retreat.

• Conquer the Clutter: Oftentimes messy piles and disorganization can lead to 20 minutes of searching for those pesky car keys and an overall feeling of distress. Take some time to tackle that messy closet or piles of old mail bogging you down. You’ll feel the tension immediately escape the room as you toss away those unneeded items. Few things create mental unrest like clutter. Hence, spend time cleaning out unused items for donation, and invest in appealing organizational tools like woven baskets, oversize clear jars, and drawer inserts. 

• Venture with Color: The simple addition of a colorful wall or statement piece can transform the mood of any room. Silky white textiles offer a sense of elegance and serenity to a bedroom, whereas a daffodil shade may add just the right amount excitement to a family’s living room. Choosing the right color scheme can be a challenge, so experiment with different shades and combinations to determine how they may impact the feeling of a space. Cool shades can help in creating a soothing space. If you feel the need of having a calm house, it is preferable to paint your rooms in cool colors like the shades of blue and green.

• Embrace the Power of Plants: When looking to recharge from a stressful week, people often flood to their nearest botanical garden or hiking trail to immerse themselves in nature. Why not bring the restorative qualities of emerald escapes indoors? Not only do they add a verdant pop to your design scheme but, according to a study done by NASA, plants eliminate toxins from indoor spaces, thus re-oxygenating your home. Also, for those with a not-so-green thumb, try varieties such as parlor palms or snake plants that require little maintenance for maximum serene effects at a low lift.

• Don’t Overlook the Bedroom: One of the most intimate areas of your home is the bedroom and it should invite you to escape from your busy schedule while still asserting a sense of sophistication. You always want to walk into a bedroom and feel amazed, but it also has to be a place where you can settle in and relax. Whether you prefer neutrals or pretty pastels, you can always incorporate colors that resonate with you and draw you in to the room. You may also want to pass on putting that television in and opt for calming weeping figs or aloe vera plants, which give off more oxygen at night.

• Think Through the Room's Role: By designating areas for various activities, you are subconsciously allowing yourself to move with ease and purpose within your home. When developing a design scheme for each room, try to decorate with the space’s function in mind.

• Strike a Balance: The Chinese tradition of Feng shui emphasizes the balance of opposing yet connected forces: yin and yang. The basic idea of the ancient art embodies countless aspects and approaches within decorating as well. From creating complete symmetry within a dining room to playing with dark and light pieces, look for ways to find complete harmony within your space.

• Strokes of Natural Light: Nothing brings clarity and highlights the intricate design details of a room like a stroke of natural light. A naturally lit room boosts productivity, improves mood, and creates an overall tranquil atmosphere more so than an artificially lit environment. For apartment dwellers with few windows, try incorporating reflective surfaces into the home. The amount of natural light will immediately double by allowing sunlight to reflect off strategically placed large mirrors or lacquered pieces.

• Utilize Natural Textures: It’s human instinct for people to appreciate and be attracted to the charming beauty of nature. While houseplants aren’t for everyone, textures and pieces made from natural materials exude the same amount of tranquility and ground the overall theme of a room. There are countless ways to foster a sense of inner calm through earthy pieces like original woodwork or adding a woven side table. For example, covering hard floors with rugs and layering textures to create depth rather than layering contrasting colors and patterns all create a serene environment

• All Rooms Are Important: Whether it's a small powder room needing a refresh or a less-than-cozy home library, it often feels easier to close the door on these rooms and deal with them another day. Unfortunately, they weigh on your unconscious and zap your energy; they are essentially a task left undone. Create home unity by making each space in your dwelling an inspired one.

Christmas Accessory Ideas

The way that you decorate your home for the holidays can say a lot about you as a person. For example, if you’re a traditionalist, you probably gravitate towards simple and elegant Christmas accessories like white lights and berry arrangements. If you like things that are a bit more whimsical, you probably go for cute and homemade Christmas decorations like painted stockings and one-of-a-kind tree toppers. There’s no right or wrong way to prepare your home for holiday festivities; it all depends on your personal preferences. But what if you’re not sure where you want to fall on the spectrum this year? Or what if you’re decorating your first home and still figuring out what kind of decorations speak to you? If you’re stuck for inspiration when it comes to Christmas decor ideas, the good news is that there are plenty of items on the market to help you start your sense of style. Here are few Christmas accessory ideas from around the world that can bring the spirit of the season into your home:

A Starry Night Lights

With a hundred bulbs that twinkle merrily through a dozen stars, light curtains will make a wonderful addition to your regular Christmas decorations. Drape them across your windows; hang them from tree branches outside; use them as a shimmering backdrop for your Christmas tree. They come with different modes to control their illumination.

Tablecloth Fit for Christmas

 It’s a table setting that will bring a touch of grace to your holiday dinners without overpowering them with showiness. However, if you’re looking for a way to express your holiday spirit without sacrificing the aesthetic that you’ve already created in your home, consider investing in tablecloth.

Flameless LED Candles

These candles are becoming a hot commodity among parents and pet owners. Offering the look and feel of traditional wax candles but with a non-flammable, battery-operated light source that’s cool to the touch, they’re perfect for giving your home a welcoming glow without sacrificing the safety of your little ones. This flameless candle collection even comes with a remote control that will allow you to dim their brightness or set them on a timer for maximum convenience. You may place them on windows and table settings for holiday dinners or family gatherings.

Christmas Wreath

These wreaths usually come with artificial needles decorated with berries, spruces, and pine cones and sometimes it has a sheen of red glitter over the entire creation to make it shimmer from every angle. Also, it can be hung both indoors and outdoors with no effect on its longevity.

Decorative Christmas Pillow Case

They simply slide onto the pillows and fasten with invisible interior zippers that won’t be noticed from the outside. Also, they come with different shapes and designs that fit your selected Christmas theme.

Christmas Stitched Stockings

These stockings contain fun motifs like smiling snowmen and happy reindeer. There’s something about the way that they’re sewn that suggests a 50’s or 60’s Christmas aesthetic without looking out of place. If you’d like a nostalgic look for your own fireplace, consider adding a stocking set to your collection.

Christmas Baubles

Try to have baubles that are crafted with small, imperfect windows that allow the interior lights to shine through, and they come on a four-foot silver wire that can be wrapped around trees, doors, windows, bannisters and anything else that your heart desires. They’re exotic enough for a second look but homey enough that they’ll fit right in with your other Christmas accessories.

Artificial Poinsettia

Poinsettia garlands might be exactly what you need to enjoy the best of both worlds. They’ll make a bold, colorful statement when added to the trim of your room, but unlike real holiday plants, they’ll require no watering or tending.

Welcome Mat

It is sure to become a Christmas staple in your home. With trees, snowflakes, ornaments and a jovial snowman wishing you happiness throughout the season, it’s the perfect composite of holiday cheer. If you’re looking for fun, festive decor ideas that will welcome guests into your home, consider such mats.

Micro LED Bulbs on Flexible Wires

These golden fairy lights can be used anywhere and everywhere around your home. Wrap them around your wine bottles before serving your guests at a holiday party; roll them into a ball to illuminate an ornament or present within; string them around sconces, stairwells, fireplaces, picture frames and other indoor Christmas decorations. Their copper wire can be manipulated in any way that you’d like, so the only limit is your imagination. 

How To Decorate Your Home For Christmas

Christmas is just around the corner! There's still plenty of time to get festive and break out the decorations. Between preparing the food and buying your loved ones’ presents, transforming your home into a winter wonderland is a great way to embrace the holiday spirit. But it can feel like a lot of work! Here are some tips to make sure everything from your hallway to your living room is decorated with the perfect Christmas-y finishing touches.

Choose a color scheme

Choosing the right color scheme can be difficult, especially when you want different rooms to evoke different moods. While gold, red and green, or silver and white are classic choices that will look elegant in most homes, there recently has been an influx of new color trends, notably darker colors like black. You may use a mix of glossy and glittered black ornaments, which will reflect light so the colors don’t become lost among the dark green foliage of a Christmas tree. This year the popular color for decoration is cashmere brown. It works beautifully with other colors such as dull matte gold or pearl creams. It’s a very subtle, muted, timeless palette.

The Christmas Tree 

The main attraction of any festive interior is the Christmas tree, the main focus when decorating your home for the Holidays. Whether the tree is artificial or not doesn’t matter as long as it matches your taste and suits your room proportions. When it comes to color schemes, it is preferable to make you coordinate between all the decorations in your room. That way, the tree looks like it has always been part of the home, rather than a temporary addition. 

The Living Room

The living room is often at the center of the Holiday action, where you’ll be spending many chilly evenings huddled together for warmth. When it comes to Christmas decor, it should come as no surprise that your lounge area will be the highlight of the house. Use the right accessories to enhance the overall Christmas mood like hanging vases, brass candles, artificial Christmas flowers and various Christmas table and wall ornaments.

The Dining Room

When it comes to the dining room you’re going to want the table to be the main focal point and for this, candles are the best way to go. White table cloths come first then fill the space down the middle with greenery from the garden, flowers, berries and candles. You can put candles in jars or on candle sticks. Just don’t have anything too tall... remember that you have to reach across to grab those Christmas crackers!

The Hallway

The hallway is the first area that your guests will see as they enter your home, so it’s important not to forget to add a little festive cheer in it. Use garlands around the door from both sides to offer a real warm and welcoming impression as you enter and leave, creating a great visual impact during night and day. Your staircase can also be a great place to spruce up, especially by wrapping the balustrades with real or faux greenery full of hanging baubles and battery-operated fairy lights. If you have a console table, a vase with a simple branch, with baubles hanging from it and more fairy lights, can also be great welcome for your guests and will add to the whole ambiance.

The Bedroom

If you want to transform your bedroom or guest room into a relaxing and festive hideaway for the Christmas season, it is recommended to add a simple chain of twinkling fairy lights. The bedroom is also a great place to help children feel included in the festive fun. Good decoration to use over the bed is to hang paper stars and snowflakes; this will give the bedroom a magical Christmas feel.

10 Kitchen Design Tips.

Kitchens are one of the busiest parts of a home. We use them to create beautiful meals, and in today's world, they are sometimes transformed into work from home offices. Designing a kitchen can be tricky - we want it to be beautiful, but it must also be functional. Some guidelines can help us simplify the task, and make it more approachable:

Think ahead. Planning out your kitchen space goes a long way. Whether it's a galley, U or L shaped kitchen, always consider function before all else. Plan for your appliances including fridge, sink, and stove within 6 feet of one another for ease of movement.

Create storage. Kitchens fill up fast! Before you know it, you'll be struggling to fit your pantry items, blender, food processor, pots and pans without adequate storage space. Allow overhead cabinets to extend to the ceiling, consider deep drawers for easier access to your kitchen accessories instead of letting them crowd your countertops. Make use of every nook and cranny - you'll need it!

Light the way. Because kitchens are highly active zones with a lot of hands-on tasks taking place, lighting is essential. Overhead lighting, although appropriate in other areas of the house, is insufficient in kitchens and will only cast shadows on your workspace. Consider installing some lights under your cabinets so you can properly see what is happening on your counterspace.

Power up. Ensure enough power sources and plugs for your appliances and accessories. Many realize only too late that they don't have the gas or electric lines needed to power their kitchen. To be effective, know where your items will be installed and take the right measurements. For example, if a dishwasher is crammed into a tight nook without adequate space for the hose, it could push against it and block drainage.

Lay down the countertops. There is no such space as too much counterspace - you'll need it for organizing, chopping, plating and much more. Choose a surface that is sturdy enough to handle the heavy-duty work of a kitchen and that is easy to work on. Keep in mind, grout between tiles is hard to maintain and stainless steel will scratch easily.

Clear the air. Cooking fumes affect visibility and lead to accidents, which makes ventilation important in a kitchen. A range hood keeps the air flowing and dissipates odors quickly. Ideally, opt for one that is efficient, quiet, and connects to the outside.

Keep it fresh. Avoid re-using appliances and accessories from an old kitchen. Old generation items will stick out like a sore thumb in a shiny new kitchen. If you're looking to economize, you can do so in the details of your remodel (e.g. saving $100 on a type of drawer handle if there is a more affordable alternative that looks good)

Trash talk. Garbage tends to be forgotten until it's staring straight at you. Remember to plan for garbage and recycling bins. Consider whether you want built-in bins behind your cabinets, or a sleek stainless-steel garbage container placed out of the way.

Look out below. When it comes to flooring, consider slip-resistance, maintenance, and porosity. Some types of flooring, such as stone floors, may need periodic resealing - make sure you know how often and whether that is a task you are comfortable with. Hardwood floors are beautiful but wear out faster by the fridge, stove, and sink. Consider your options along with the advantages and disadvantages.

Stay safe. Keep your kitchen safe and family-friendly by ensuring visual access to the backyard and indoor play areas. You may also want to consider eliminating sharp edges with rounded countertops, slip-resistant flooring to avoid falls, and stoves located at adult height to minimize the risk of burns.

Designing a kitchen is a lot of work with a lot to consider, but if done right, it will quickly become a delight to spend time in.

10 Things to Remove from Your Home

Home design trends tend to come and go, some becoming obsolete with no chance for a comeback. Thankfully, some are easily tossed out and replaced, giving your home new life. If you're looking for quick ways to improve the aesthetic of your space, consider adjusting these home details.

Abandon cushions that match your sofa. If your sofa came with matching cushions, forget about them. Instead, play with texture, color, and patterns to accent the main fabric. The investment you make in such a small detail has the power to bring the entire room together!

Replace your lightbulbs. Say goodbye to the harsh clinical lighting of cool-white bulbs and hello to the comforting hue of warm-white bulbs. This simple switch will ease the strain on your eyes and offer warmth akin to a burning candle or crackling fire.

Away with window treatments. Natural light isn't just great for morale, it can brighten a room, make it look larger, and show off light-catching finishes. Window treatments prevent that magic from happening by dulling the brightness coming through the added layers. If privacy is a priority, consider sheers or translucent metallics as an alternative - they create coverage without the gloomy side-effect. Otherwise, go ahead and let the sunshine in!

No to accent walls. Accent walls are quickly fading out of style. Although they effectively make eye-catching statements, they can also look dated. Instead of committing to the design of an entire wall, opt for decorative pieces like art, plants, or mirrors. If you need some inspiration, read our post How to Accessorize a Home.

Down with the chair rail. A chair rail is a strip of wood that lines the walls of a room and doesn't do much beyond awkwardly splitting the room in half. To avoid shrinking the space with this visual division, either remove the railing and opt for painted walls, or invest in more substantial wainscoting for a buttoned-up look.

Discard ill-fitting rugs. Regardless of how nice the rug is, if the size isn't right, it will ruin the look of a space. For a quick and easy guide to follow, take a look at our post The Right-Size Rug.

Pass on the TV over the fireplace. It is a popular move to place the television in the space above the fireplace, and it is also one of designers' biggest pet peeves. As tempting as it is to do so, it is best you keep the area around your fireplace distraction-free so you can enjoy the serenity that space was built to offer. 

Ditch fake plants. For the busy bees among us, taking time out of our day to care for live plants isn't an option. It can be tempting to turn towards fake plants to add some lushness and pops of color around the house. But fake plants can become dust magnets, and depending on their quality, they can cheapen the overall look and feel of your home. If caring for live flora seems overwhelming, maybe look into low-maintenance species like a cactus or snake plant.

Drop your matched furniture. Matching living room sets could appear dated and make your space feel like a showroom. Consider mixing and matching your pieces for a more tailored look. For example, replace the sofa's matching loveseat with two comfortable upholstered armchairs.

Give up on matching wood furniture. If most of the furniture in your home is the same version of stained wood, you might want to switch some of them out. Gone are the rules for matching wooden pieces in the home. Get creative and experiment with different wood species and stain colors! You can take it a step further by bringing in some painted or destressed pieces.

As design trends rotate throughout time, there are always simple changes you can make to keep your space looking fresh. Start with these quick tips and watch your home transform into a stylish haven.

What to Consider When Buying a Dining Room Table

Dining room tables are a place of gathering and an intimate part of our homes. Beautiful memories are created around meals and the resounding laughter of moments shared with friends and family lingers long after they're gone. Needless to say, it is important to make a dining space warm and inviting, so here are some things to keep in mind on your next shopping trip.

Proportions

It all begins with measurements. Measure your space and measure the table you're considering. Ideally, the table should be able to fit comfortably (i.e. not be too big or too small) in the room and seat the number of guests you expect to host. Make sure there is enough space for movement around the table - typically around 3 to 4 feet between the table and the nearest wall. It might also be a good idea to consider the height of the table as well. Dining tables usually range between 28 and 30 inches off the floor. This height will allow your guests to sit comfortably without hitting their legs against the bottom of the table.

Shape

The shape and size of your dining room should help you decide whether your dining table should be rectangular, round, square, or oval shaped.

Rectangular dining tables are the most common because they are able to seat a large number of people. They take up a lot of space but can be convenient if you have a long and narrow dining space. The standard width of a rectangular table is 36 inches, but in length it can range from 48 to 78 inches.

Square dining tables seat up to four people perfectly - they make it easy to see all your guests and have engaged conversations over dinner. But they become problematic in narrow spaces, or if more people need to be hosted. Keep in mind, the standard size of a square table is 36 x 36 inches.

Round dining tables have the same benefits and disadvantages of square tables. To seat four to six people comfortably, your round table should be between 44 and 54 inches in diameter.

Oval dining tables are great for small spaces. Like rectangular tables, they can accommodate a large number of people depending on their length and fit especially well in narrow spaces. To fit four to six people, aim for a table that is 54 inches long and 36 inches in diameter.

Table leaves

Most tables on the market cannot extend, but some designers make it a point to include flexibility in their pieces. Turning kitchen tables into dining tables is a convenience small spaces crave, and table leaves allow us to do that. If flexibility and convenience are at the top of your priority list, look for tables with that option.

Material

Selecting the right material is as important as choosing the size of your table. If you're a homeowner, your best options are hardwood tables (i.e. tables made of walnut, maple, or oak wood). If you're a renter and plan of moving frequently in coming years, maybe opt for a more affordable table. Tables made of fiberboard aren't as sturdy or long-lasting as hardwood but can be as well designed and aesthetically pleasing.

Dining rooms are used frequently and hold a special place in people's homes. They carry memories of holidays and graduations, romantic dinners, and Sunday breakfasts with family. Once you determine which table is perfect for your home, you'll be a step closer to creating memories in a new and wonderful space.

How to Fix a Forward Leaning Office Chair

Most of us spend long hours in our office chairs, and if the chair tilts or leans, it can put unwanted stress on our back and joints. As such, it is important to learn how to fix an office chair that leans forward for a pain-free workday.

First thing's first, most office injuries occur as a result of poor posture while seated. To improve posture, we've gotten some tips for ergonomics experts and applied them to our workday. First, don't perch on the edge of your chair, instead push your hips back, leaving two inches between the edge of your seat and the back of your knees. Your feet should be flat on the ground and your knees at a 90-degree angle. Finally, recline your chair at a 100 to 110-degree angle for a comfortable seating position.

If your office chair leans forward instead of being at a slight recline, you'll need to adjust it to ensure proper posture and blood flow. Occupational health experts recommend using a fully adjustable office chair. That means you should be able to adjust both the height and tilt of your chair, as well as the height of the armrests. Locate the tilt adjustment knob that is located beneath the seat pan (the part of the chair you sit on) of your chair, keeping in mind that the ideal resting tilt for your seat is between zero (parallel to the floor) and four degrees). If the back of your chair leans forward, be sure to recline it. By sitting at a slight recline, you will distribute your weight more effectively and take a load off your spine.

If the chair's levers aren't solving the problem, check the castors (or little wheels) on your chair - sometimes they get loose or break. If the castors are loose, tighten the screws, and replace any broken ones. Another potential culprit is the metallic plate underneath your seat pan. This plate allows your chair to swivel, but the screws that fasten it to the seat pan can become loose with use. Tightening the screws in the swivel plate will often do the trick.

All in all, if you have a good chair and work on maintaining proper posture during your workday, office injuries are bound to decrease. It can be challenging, but good habits are worth keeping!

The Difference Between a Sofa and a Couch

The Difference Between a Sofa and a Couch

The words "sofa" and "couch" are often used interchangeably with no real understanding for the subtle differences between the two. But we're here to highlight those differences and finally put to rest the question: what is the difference between a couch and a sofa?

Let's start with etymology

The word sofa originates from the Arabic term suffah which translates to "a bench covered with blankets and cushions." It evokes images of Arabian nights in large banquet halls filled with seating and guests. Suffahs offered a comfortable platform for people to rest on while lounging or feasting.

The word couch, on the other hand, evolved from the French word couche which means "to lie down." However, its related Heraldic word couchant means "lying down with the head up." Couches proved immensely popular during the Victorian era which saw an increase in production thanks to the industrial revolution.

Next, shape

A sofa typically has two armrests and a uniform back. Sofas are designed to allow more seating space (usually for four people and above) and will therefore take up more floor space.

A couch features a single armrest or none at all and has a tapered back. It offers a more compact form of seating (usually for two to three people at most) and is therefore more convenient for homes with limited floor space. 

Finally, proper use

It is important to know how and where to use a couch or sofa, and to consider the following.

- The size of the room: If space is limited, a couch may be the only viable option, especially if other pieces of furniture share the space (tables, shelving units, armchairs, etc.).

- The style of the room: Is it modern or traditional? It would be awkward to place a modern couch or sofa in a traditional-leaning room. Any furniture you place in a room must suit its environment or it will unpleasantly stick out.

- The function of the room: A couch fits nicely in a formal living room where guests are entertained. In a decently sized family room, however, a sofa's plush and comforting feel can make the space feel cozy and welcoming.

The couch is the smaller but more formal cousin of the sofa, but both of these pieces have their own unique properties and function. If you consider these points, it may take you one step closer to furnishing a beautiful home.

How To Remove Wallpaper

Many of us have decided to take down wallpaper in our homes. For the lucky ones, the right primer was used to put the wallpaper up and taking it down is smooth sailing. But for the majority among us, wallpaper was installed poorly and taking it down seems complicated. Here is a step-by-step guide to strip your walls and get them ready for a new look:

1. Protect Your Space

Before removing the wallpaper, it's important to protect other surfaces in the room from the water and soap that will be used during the process. Be sure to use painter's tape to completely cover trim and moldings. Also, lay some rags on the floor to protect its finish. 

2. Start Scraping

In some cases, the wallpaper is already starting to pull free from the walls. Start the process by trying to remove the wallpaper by hand without water. Find the edge and try to scrape it off using a taping knife (the same tool used to patch walls).

3. Spray the Wall

If you begin to feel resistance while scraping the wallpaper on dry, you will have to start using water. Warm water is recommended to loosen the adhesive and make the separation easier. Any generic spray bottle will do, but a vacuum sprayer might speed up the process. In especially tough cases, a steamer is your best bet. Spray generously and let it sit for a few moments.

4. Scrape Some More

After letting the water soak in for a few minutes, resume scraping with your taping knife. Gently peel the wallpaper, either left-to-right or up-to-bottom, depending on what feels easiest. If resistance persists, consider spraying the wall several times. Patience will be necessary to avoid scratching the wall underneath. If you find an extra layer of wallpaper underneath, finish the first layer and then move on to the second. Only one layer can be removed at a time without causing damage.

5. Wash It

Once all the paper has been removed, it is time to clear the wall of any excess primer or paste. Dampen a sponge with water and go over the wall several times. Believe it or not, this is the most important step in the entire process. If residue isn't properly washed off problems will arise when trying to paint or re-paper the walls in the future.

6. Smooth It Out

The tiniest specks of paste can derail the next wall treatment. To combat the problem, apply gel stripper to any lingering patches of paste, then scrape it off the wall to make sure the plaster is as smooth as can be.

7. Refresh It

Once all your hard work is complete, it's time to enjoy choosing a gorgeous new design! Keep things simple with a coat of paint or revamp the space with a creative and inspired wallpaper pattern. 

Removing wallpaper can be a challenge, but when done right, you will give way to the next phase of design: beautifying your home!

The Flick Flack Sofa by Ditre Italia

Ditre Italia is known as a longstanding expert in the upholstered furniture sector. Founded by the De Marchi brothers in 1976, Ditre Italia evolved from an artisan business in San Martino di Colle Umberto to the successful modern furniture company it is today. The brand follows four main principles to produce some of the finest furniture in Italy: unique designs, timeless elegance, tradition, and project-wear. Working in alignment with their principles has allowed them to astonish audiences with their collections year after year, their largest success being their living room collections…

…Among which is their "Flick Flack" sofa. Designed by the talented Anna Von Schewen, this sofa took form following a list of design principles as well as the Scandinavian traditions that render her pieces unique.

Anna Von Schewen pays great attention to the workmanship of her creations and is drawn to the expressive ideas that catch the spirit of Scandinavian tradition. The "Flick Flack" sofa, inspired by the shape of bird nests, includes a cushioned rim that lines the edge of the sofa with adjustable arms and back. This sofa is usually placed in cozy spaces and family rooms because of its loose and comfortable shape.

Having stylish and comfortable furniture is important, but it is also essential to know how to lay it out in your home. Anna Von Schewen offers four ideal compositions for the "Flick Flack" sofa. For a cozy get-together atmosphere, layouts A and D are ideal as they include a corner composed of two rectangular bases and a chamfered square base. For more formal and spacious areas, layouts B and C work best thanks to their long sofa composed of two large rectangular bases.

Besides layout, color needs to be selected wisely with the help of a color mood board. After careful consideration, Anna Von Schewen concludes that Ditre Italia’s "Mood Color" palette is the best suited for the "Flick Flack" sofa. This palette includes colors such as Pool, Pacific Blue, Curry and Denim, Smoke Walnut, Brandy, Cigar and Honey, Dusty Pink, Cherry Blossom, Grasscut, Jasper Green, and Cider.

Ditre Italia understand the principles involved in producing excellent furniture and creating beautiful homes. It may be challenging for individuals outside the furniture and design sector, but you can always refer to these guidelines for a push in the right direction when you need it!

Decorating with Mirrors

Mirrors are a perfect blend of style and function. While they serve a decorative purpose, they're also practical and allow us to take one last look at ourselves before walking out the door. More than that, they have the power to make small spaces feel larger and dark rooms appear lighter. Here are some do's and don’ts for hanging mirrors in homes.

Before starting

Consider lighting. The lighting in your room should inform exactly where to place a mirror. Natural light is ideal, so consider hanging your mirror by a window.

Tilting mirrors may be a convenient choice in small spaces where a full-length mirror won't fit. necessary in certain cases especially if there isn't enough space or runway for a full-length mirror. Remember, some mirrors are meant to be hung on walls while others are meant to lean.

How to choose a mirror

Adhere to the decorating style of your home - if the style is more modern, overlook rustic wood frames and opt for a sleek metal frame instead. 

Try grouping your mirrors on a wall as an easy way to add character to your space. Just make sure to hang them the same way you would artwork, with proportions taken into consideration, as well as consistent and equal space between each mirror.

Keep in mind that tall rooms benefit from vertical mirrors, while wide rooms do better with horizontal mirrors.

How to hang a mirror

Entry halls are considered one of the best areas for mirrors. Not only do mirrors provide a beautiful accent, but they are tools to make a typically small and tight space look larger and brighter. In that area of the home, try to place your mirror above the console table. 

The dining room is one of the most popular space for dramatic mirrors, especially in the presence of a beautiful chandelier. If the chandelier holds exposed bulbs, however, the reflection could be glaring. In such cases, try an antiqued mirror to diffuse the light.

In a living room, mirrors are best placed on a wall opposing the window. To hang mirrors above mantels, try positioning them at least 4 to 5 inches above the top of the mantel.

Finally, in bathrooms, frame your mirrors and hang them above the sink.

Mirrors are useful in so many ways - whether it is simple décor or creating optical illusions. The trick is to learn to unlock their full potential through trial and error and through these easy-to-follow rules.

How to Decorate an All-White Interior

Color is wonderful, but there's one type of space that will never go out of style: all-white interiors. Whether it's a light and bright kitchen or a colorless living room filled with intriguing art, there's something timeless and soothing about a bleached space. Although it may seem simpler to create a white interior, there are very specific ingredients that lead to its success. From layering textures to choosing paint colors (there are many types of white!) and materials, or even picking artwork, creating a satisfying all-white scheme is not as easy as it may seem. Here are some guidelines for white interiors:

Pick Paint Wisely

All white paint is not created equal, and it is important to select the right shade for your space. Interior designers take details into account when choosing white paint, things like the direction the room faces, or the color undertones of furniture and other items in the room. For example, if a room has warm accents, a warmer shade of white is selected. Otherwise, a cooler shade of white is used when paired with chrome, Carrara, or modern furnishings. Consider even layering different shades of white to create an overall palette instead of a single strict tone.

Choose Durable Material

All-white kitchens and bathrooms are popular for good reason - they feel timeless - but they come with their own setbacks. For example, an all-white kitchen with items that look aged, or exhibit wear and tear is a sad sight. Using materials like non-porous quartz stone for countertops and maintaining appliances will keep your space shining. Keep in mind, an all-white kitchen makes it easier to pick out an interesting type of stone for your countertops - maybe one with veins that complement the white space while adding contrast!

Decorate with Texture

Texture is everything. A monochromatic space instantly becomes more interesting when layers of texture are introduced. Playing with lighting and reflections, mirrors and pieces of art adds an extra layer of intrigue to the space. Don't be afraid to experiment!

Introduce Color Carefully

All-white interiors can feel sterile but remain ideal for minimal and modern spaces. To add a welcoming touch, start to introduce color. You can do so in many ways, but what it comes down to is the atmosphere you want to create. For an authentic and down-to-earth vibe, add natural elements such as wooden accessories, flowers, indoor plants, clay pottery, and rugs. For a striking and bold vibe, create harsh contrast by adding black and other dark colors. For a contemporary vibe, try colorful artwork (which will stand-out beautifully in a white interior), glassware, as well as rich textures in the form of soft throws and down-filled cushions.

Creating white spaces can be tricky but following these guideline will take you step closer to the beautiful interior space you desire. Balance is key - play with color, light, and texture. And never overlook the quality of the items in your home.

5 Things to Consider When Buying Curtains

Curtains have the power to add warmth and beauty to a room, but only when chosen correctly. When it comes to window treatment, it's a matter of color and fabric, length and lining, and custom-made versus off-the-rack. With so many decisions to make, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Here are a few guidelines to pick the right curtains for your home:

Color and Fabric

Fabric is an essential part of choosing curtains because it dictates how the curtains will function and how well they will hold over time. If they are too heavy, they may not fold crisply when drawn. On the other hand, if they are too light, they may not fall as intended. To determine the best option for you, request large samples when shopping (at least 2 yards) to test the fabric's true drape.

Linen, silk, faux silk, and velvet are ideal choices for curtains (with faux silk outlasting silk in particularly sunny rooms). Many hotels use fabrics like suede, tapestry, or tweed thanks to their ability to block light and trap warmth. Regardless, nearly all fabric can be interlined with bump - a thick insulating material - which also prolongs the life of curtains. Keep in mind that some fabrics are washer friendly while others are dry clean only.

For color, keep the sun in mind - sunlight fades fabric over time. If a room tends to get very bright, opt for neutral colored shades rather than bright colors, as they are less likely to fade and more likely to blend into a room's decor. For darker rooms, you have the opportunity to get more experimental with color and design.

Length and Lining

Before taking your measurements, it's important to decide how high above the window your curtains must sit. While some designers hang curtains about 6 inches above the window frame, others go higher to offer the room the illusion of height. When you decide how high to set your curtains, measure from that spot to the floor for height. For width, be sure to add between four and eight inches to each side of the window frame and double the total number to ensure adequate space and fullness.

Off-the-Rack versus Custom Drapes

Custom window treatments allow you to customize the dimensions of your curtains and create a tailored look - very much like a tailored suit. Custom panels come in endless design options, from material to header style. But keep in mind, with these options comes a considerable price difference from off-the-rack curtain panels.

Finding the right curtains for your home can be overwhelming and challenging, but thankfully there are solutions to the struggle. One of those solutions is a home consultation. Some establishments send consultants to your home to help you decide on color, texture, and finishing touches that blend perfectly with the space you're attempting to create. These services can also be found online, where you can receive suggestions from designers. It may be a good idea to get some professional advice if you're unsure of your options. Whatever the path you choose to take, we hope you find the drapes of your dreams.

The Sanders Air Sofa by Ditre Italia

Ditre Italia is known as a longstanding expert in the upholstered furniture sector. Founded by the De Marchi brothers in 1976, Ditre Italia evolved from an artisan business in San Martino di Colle Umberto to the successful modern furniture company it is today. The brand follows four main principles to produce some of the finest furniture in Italy: unique designs, timeless elegance, tradition, and project-wear. Working in alignment with their principles has allowed them to astonish audiences with their collections year after year, their largest success being their living room collections. Among their most esteemed pieces is the "Sanders Air Sofa" created by the world-renowned designers Stefano Spessotto and Lorella Agnoletto. This pair of professionals have built a pristine reputation around detailed explanations of their designs, as well as counseling on furniture layouts and color schemes.

The "Sanders Air" is a frameless modular sofa that allows complete freedom of composition. It combines linear lines and sharp angles to form original and multi-faceted solutions suitable for private homes and public spaces. It is a highly versatile sofa in regard to color - two colors can be chosen for the same module and different colored modules can be put together - but it is also structurally versatile when it evolves into its "Air" version and elevates from the floor on an elegant metal base. These characteristics make it a perfect stylistic and structural addition to homes, offices, and hospitality-centric businesses such as hotels and restaurants.

Having a beautiful sofa is not enough on its own, it must also be displayed in a manner that bring out its full potential. Designers Spessotto and Agnoletto have offered four layout styles that best suit their "Sanders Air Sofa" for a multitude of different spaces.

For cozy get-togethers at home, layout A is ideal with its two main bodies put together to form a corner alongside a seperate square base. The versatility and flexibility of layouts B and D are best for lounges and waiting areas in hospitality and retail spaces. Finally, layout C is mostly used for spacious formal settings, perfect for large living rooms at home.

A room comes together when all its elements work together in harmony, which makes color our next and final step. Color mood boards are useful tools when considering the color scheme of a room and Spessotto and Agnoletto have expertly offered the best color combinations for the proposed layouts and style of the "Sanders Air Sofa." Ditre Italia's "Mood Dark" board is the primary reference for this project, its colors include: Gray and Tobacco, Espresso, Espresso Low, Fire Wood, Concrete, Cloud, Chalk, Black Earth, Urban Gray, Urban Gray Low, Graphite, and Dark Night.

Ditre Italia understands the principles involved in producing excellent furniture and creating beautiful homes. Designers Spessotto and Agnoletto have expertly mastered how to select unique pieces, design the right layout, and marry colors. If these basic principles are followed, any space can be transformed into a home. It may be challenging for individuals outside the furniture and design sector, but you can always refer back to these guidelines for a push in the right direction when you need it!

Timeless Living Room Trends

Design trends change every year, it is evident from pieces exhibited in galleries, magazines, and on social media. Trends evolve with our changing needs, but as important as it is to keep up with trends to stay relevant, it can be difficult to constantly do so when we have different time and financial priorities. If you want to keep up with trends on a smaller scale instead of doing yearly home makeovers, here are some design elements that seem to withstand the test of time:

Sliding doors have popped up everywhere in the last few years, and for good reason! They are a space-saver - they open by sliding along walls and require no floor space. Their style is very versatile without compromising the aesthetics of a room. They are often fashioned out of reclaimed wood, but with their growing popularity, their style has evolved. They can be modern or vintage, made of wood, glass or any material you can think of. The question is, have they made the jump from trend to classic? Their popularity is bound to wane with time, but because of their practicality, they will never completely go out of favor.

Sectionals have come and gone repeatedly over the past century. On one side, they are very accommodating and can seat a large number of people, perfect for large homes. But on the other side, they are highly inconvenient because they are big and bulky, a risky and expensive move for small homes. Their popularity seems to come and go in waves. Chances are good sectionals will never really disappear, they might just hideout for a while.

Rug layering is a relatively new (but not completely original) trend in the decorating world. It consists of layering patterned or colored rugs over jute or sisal. It became popular with the bohemian trend but has become increasingly popular for rooms of all styles. It may not be for everyone, but it is an undeniably creative way of mixing different colors and textures, and can be particularly useful for open-concept spaces where areas need to be defined. Taking that into account, it unlikely this trend will disappear anytime soon.

Gallery walls have been hugely popular in the last decade and can be found in nearly every home in North America and Europe. For art enthusiasts, it is a wonderful way to display pieces without having to pick and choose. Gallery walls can be big, small, and can evolve over time as one's art collection grows. They are beloved by many and are likely to have a lasting impact in the world of decor.

Slipper chairs are upholstered chairs that lack arms and sit low to the ground. They came into style during the Victorian era when these high-back chairs were used to comfortably seat high-class women while they put on their shoes or slippers. Their clean lines and slim silhouettes have made them the chameleon of furniture. They are extremely versatile and have become popular for contemporary interiors and small spaces. Considering how long these pieces have been around, it is safe to say they have made a permanent mark for interior design.

Style and décor trends are always shifting and incredibly fun to follow. While some trends wane with time others last decades, and while some pieces disappear from repertoire others become iconic. We can do our best to evaluate which are worth following and holding in our homes, but the only real determining factor is time.

How to Shop for a Sofa

Choosing a sofa sounds straightforward but getting the right one is not as easy as it seems, and mistakes happen often. Sofas tend to be the most expensive piece of furniture in a home, so it is important to know you are making the right investment. Before buying a sofa, take these points into consideration:

Size

Three things need to be taken into account when the size is in question: the dimensions of the room, the size of the sofa in relation to the room (i.e. will it fit?), and the number of people you need to accommodate. Before you begin to shop, take measurements of the room, and think about layout. If you only need to accommodate two or three people, your options are flexible. But if more people need to be accounted for, consider an L-shaped sofa – it will offer extra seating without taking up too much space.

Manufacturing Quality

Sofas vary in price from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. The better-quality pieces will always be on the more expensive side of the spectrum, but keep in mind, quality has a huge impact on the durability and resilience of your sofa. So, while it may seem like a big investment in the present, you are saving yourself from having to replace that piece down the line, saving yourself energy and trouble in the future. 

Cost and quality tend to go hand-in-hand, but you can also identify an excellent sofa by:

1. Asking the manufacturer if it has an eight-way hand-tied construction - a sign of excellent quality, most high-end furniture is made this way.

2. Running your hand across the back of the sofa - if it feels hollow, it is an indicator of lower quality. 

If you want to learn more about how sofas are made, take a look at our post on Manufacturing a Good Sofa. Keep in mind, regardless of its quality, your sofa will only endure the test of time if you properly maintain it.

Aesthetic

Size and quality are very important, but perhaps nothing will have a bigger impact on your home than the style of the sofa. 

Because sofas are expensive and difficult to replace, it may be wise to play it safe and stick with more neutral colors and patterns. Bold colors and trendy patterns can be fun for a while, but they quickly go out of style and limit your ability to redecorate the rest of the room when you want to. Financially, it makes more sense to go minimal with the sofa and dress it up with colorful pillows and throws. 

Besides color and pattern, consider the shape of your sofa – do you like traditional sofas, midcentury sofas, contemporary sofas or modern sofas? If you are unsure, think of the existing style of the room and the overall look and atmosphere you want for your home. In general, traditional sofas do not click in modern homes, but there are exceptions! Think about the shape of the arms, the thickness of the cushions, the width of the back, and the style of the base. Find inspiration in photos and determine what you like best. 

Comfort

At the end of the day, sofas are meant to be sat in, which means comfort is essential. A sofa may look good, fit perfectly, and be within budget, but if it isn’t comfortable, it’s no good. Buying a sofa you don’t enjoy sitting it will ultimately affect your dynamic with the room you add it to. It will affect the time you spend and the things you do there. Test your sofa before completing your purchase, sit in it, lie down in it, and spend a few minutes getting comfy. If it does not feel right, move on!

Buying a sofa may be tricky but following these principles should get you a step closer to a perfect match!

How to Accessorize a Home

Accessories may seem like optional additions to a home, but their presence makes a giant impact on the look of a room. They are an inexpensive stylistic addition and can effectively create cohesion between different furniture pieces in the home. Moderation is key, using too many of them has the opposite effect and rooms begin to look stuffy and messy. Here is a quick accessories guide for the next time you're out shopping:

Quality Over Quantity

Mass produced items are affordable and readily available at many home goods stores, but hoarding these items is impersonal and creates a city of clone homes. Consider investing in a single piece that speaks to you personally from a specialty or high-end store - one you can use to complement other personal items like books, magazines, or picture frames. You might find that one unique piece works better in your home than several knickknacks that have no value beyond price. 

Size Matters

Avoid finding yourself with a postage-stamp rug in a colossal room, or a giant art piece looming over a tiny room. Before you consider shopping for accessories, take the time to consider the size of the pieces you need. Take adequate measurements for items like mirrors, side tables, pendant lamps, and other hanging decor.

Creativity Rules

Neutral colors are great for large furnishings and permanent pieces in the home. But accessories give you the opportunity to break out with pops of color and varying textures. Use them to add eye-catching contrast to a room and consider even rotating pieces between seasons and moods! Items like rugs, cushions, and throws are an easy way to add color and pattern to your home. Consider natural pieces like flowers, seashells, twigs, and pinecones that make for perfect seasonal decor!

Perfection in Imperfection

It is important to arrange furniture with symmetry in mind, but accessories are there to challenge that meticulous order. You can avoid symmetry altogether and still find balance when accessorizing. For example, group small items in odd numbers such as threes or fives and avoid placing identical pieces on either side of a mantel. Variety is key, consider multiple different items like vases, glassware, baskets and bins, candle holders, and other pieces scattered across a room in no particular order.

Beauty in Layers

Think of home accessories as decorations on a cake. Large accessories should be placed first and sparingly, with medium and small-sized accessories filling in and adding balance where needed. But keep moderation in mind, not every nook and cranny in a room needs to be filled.

When shopping, look for unique pieces that speak to you and keep in mind their size relative to the room. Once you have all the pieces you love, layer them from largest to smallest across the room, and don't be afraid of color and pattern. Also, don't be afraid of mixing different styles, you can always mix vintage pieces with more modern items! Most importantly, allow your home to reflect who you are and what you love.

Kailua by Ditre Italia

Ditre Italia is known as a longstanding expert in the upholstered furniture sector. Founded by the De Marchi brothers in 1976, Ditre Italia evolved from an artisan business in San Martino di Colle Umberto to the successful modern furniture company it is today. The brand follows four main principles to produce some of the finest furniture in Italy: unique designs, timeless elegance, tradition, and project-wear. Working in alignment with their principles has allowed them to astonish audiences with their collections year after year, their largest success being their living room collections. Of their most unique pieces is the "Kailua Sofa," designed by the talented architect Daniele Lo Scalzo Moscheri. As a designer, Moscheri possesses some distinctive qualities which include explaining his designs, counseling on indoor color schemes, and counseling on furniture layout and composition.

His design of the Kailua Sofa allows cushions to float on a slim surface supported by an invisible metal grid. The proportions of the sofa make it elegant, comfortable, and offer a perfect experience of relaxation and intimacy. The seat and backrest are multi-functional, making it easy to transition from socializing to resting. The frame can be covered by leather or fabric, and the cushions feature contrasting or block colors. All in all, an exquisite piece from which nothing can be subtracted or added without affecting its essence.

Because furniture pieces like the Kailua Sofa are unique, it is important to place them in the home in a manner that reflects their value. Moscheri recommends four layouts that work for any home. For spacious areas, Layout A is ideal, whereas Layout B works best for small and narrow rooms. For a cozy get-together atmosphere, consider using Layout C, while Layout D is a fail proof option that works for any room.

Limestone

Frosted

Lemon White

Amber

Coconut

Layout matters only as much as color schemes - if the colors don’t create harmony, effort put into layout is futile. Mood boards are useful tools when selecting color combinations for a space and Moscheri put together some schemes for different layout options. Each combination makes use of the earthy colors from Ditre Italia's "Mood Light" palette which includes Frosted, Coconut, Sand, Cotton, Sahara, Pearl, Limestone, Silver, Timber, Wolf, Amber, Lemon White, and Limestone Low.

Ditre Italia understand the principles involved in producing excellent furniture and creating beautiful homes. Architect Moscheri breaks it down to three simple steps: unique pieces, right layout, harmonious colors. If these basic principles are followed, any space can be transformed into a home. It may be challenging for individuals outside the furniture and design sector, but you can always refer back to these guidelines for a push in the right direction when you need it!

The Potential of Small and Narrow Rooms

Furnishing a small or narrow room can present a considerable challenge to many of us, but as mind-boggling as the task may seem, there are some tips and tricks that can come in handy! Planning is important – make sure you measure your space and strategically arrange the layout before purchasing or placing any furniture. Once that is done, consider these tricks to make the room look lighter and more spacious:

Creating Space

Lighting: Opt for wall sconces instead of floor and table lamps, they can light up the room without wasting valuable space. Some wall sconces can swivel, allowing light to access darker corners and giving you extra lighting flexibility. They are a convenient option, and many can be installed without having to worry about cables and wires!

Floors: Nothing makes a small space look cramped like bulky disproportionate furniture. Thin, elevated furniture that sits higher up off the floor allows you to make use of vertical space and create more room. Pieces with long tapered legs are a perfect option – which explains the popularity of mid-century modern furniture in urban cities where homes are smaller.

Storage: In narrow rooms, consider furniture with storage (for example, beds with storage, or an ottoman that can double as a chest). If drawer cabinets cannot fit in the room, consider hanging shelves – they make use of vertical space and can hold baskets to store your things. Bottom line: eliminate clutter to make the room feel tidy and spacious.

Choosing Shape and Color

Invisible furniture: When it is difficult to create more space, design tricks come in handy! The oldest trick in an interior designer's handbook is “invisible furniture.” Pieces made of glass or acrylic are an ideal way to trick the eye into seeing more space than there is. Trading a wooden coffee table in favor of a glass or acrylic one will make the room look larger.

Irregular rugs: Small rooms often demand us to choose creative pieces over traditional ones - rugs are a good example. Because traditionally shaped rugs frame a room, they draw direct attention to its shape and size. Using circular rugs or cowhide can decorate the floor without drawing attention to or contouring the narrow shape of the room.

Alternative pieces: Instead of using a traditional coffee table, play with small nesting tables, or an ottoman. These pieces will offer you a place to kick up your feet or set down a drink without taking up valuable space.

Organizing Layout

Walkways: Carving out a path to navigate through the space is important. To make a room comfortable and livable, ensure enough space between furniture to walk through easily. This might mean using smaller-scale furniture pieces.

Walls: Small spaces do not mean you need to line furniture against the wall. It is sometimes preferable to slightly pull furniture away from walls to create an illusion of abundance or to make use of wall space for storage. For example, placing bookshelves or a console table behind the sofa with lighting and accessories.

Zones: Divide long and narrow spaces into zones instead of designing one main area. Doing so will allow you to make use of the full space without creating bulk or awkward spots. You can use a bench or small sectional to effectively segment the room.

Small and narrow rooms can be difficult to furnish, but some tricks and proper planning can bring out their potential and turn them into beautiful and functional parts of your home!