Bathrooms can be a tough place to decorate by their very nature of how they are meant to be used. Let’s take a look at how you can make it look more expensive.

The average amount that is paid for remodeling a bathroom these days is about $18,000. With that amount of insane money being spent, we would not blame you for metaphorically throwing in the towel and just retiling your bathroom in onyx or even marble or maybe you want to install a claw-foot tub that is gold plated. Once again, we will not blame you for these choices. 

It is therefore pretty lucky for the rest of us that it has become easier than it has ever been to fake these fancy stuff for just a fraction of what it costs to get the actual thing installed. We have talked to a bunch of design experts on this exact issue and the following are what they have suggested to make even the most basic bathroom look exciting, fun and most importantly, expensive.

Make sure you tile diagonally

A lot of experts recommend that you tile diagonally rather than tiling along the square in line that is vertical or horizontal. This simple trick will go a long way in making your bathroom look fancy, and it will also open the space considerably as well. This can be a crucial thing if your bathroom is cramped for space. Here are some bathroom tile ideas you can look into.

A lot of professionals in the design world also recommend fully covering at least one wall in tile and to do it all the way up to the ceiling. What this will accomplish is that it will add some sparkle and also some dimension onto a surface that is otherwise lifeless.

Making sure you select the right material is of utmost importance but how exactly it is that you make use of those materials is even more important. Adding tiles to a small area does not fully optimize the potential the material has to offer.

While it is true that tiling can be an extremely expensive venture especially if you are thinking of getting professional installers. But if you happen to be an adventurous DIYer then it can be the perfect opportunity to demonstrate and also hone your DIY skills.

 Large-Scale Lighting Can Go a Long Way 

One trick that a lot of professional interior designers use in bathrooms is to make use of large-scale light fixtures. One particular thing that is very popular in this domain is the flush-mount chandelier. These have the potential to really make a big impact overhead but there is the huge advantage of the chandelier not taking up any of the physical space within the room. One of the points that we hope will be instilled in you after you go through this article is that space is a luxury and you would do well to remember it when decorating your bathroom (traditionally a space that is not the largest). 

Make Proper Use of Plants

Plants that look fresh and are in galvanized patterns have the potential to help draw the eye up. As a result of this, a lot of experts posit that it really does help with making a small space appear much larger than it actually is. That should be one of the primary goals when decorating a space that is traditionally not the largest and as we have mentioned before, you would do well to remember that space is a luxury.

One concern that many people have with plants in the bathroom is that they do not want to place a living thing inside a bathroom. The fact of the matter, however, is that a lot of plants actually thrive in the conditions that a bathroom provides. You can try aloe vera plants, Boston ferns and also even orchids.

 Classy Containers

When we talk about classy containers we are not just talking about getting one of those accessory sets for bathrooms that have matching soap dispensers and also a holder for toothbrushes. When we are talking about classy containers we are getting at rehoming all the drugstore stuff that you have throughout your bathroom. Try to picture beautiful glass bottles or maybe dispensers for all the toiletries that you have such as your shampoo, body wash or your lotion.

These classy containers can really help make your bathroom space look that much more special and luxurious and it will do so throughout the bathroom. It will work amazingly well if the toiletries you have happen to be on the cheaper side of things.

Whether we want to admit it or not, we all like stuff and spaces that look expensive. With these tips and tricks provided by experts you can very easily (and very cheaply) make your bathroom space look that much better.

Having a luxurious living room leaves a good impression; probably because it is the first thing that people notice when they walk into a house. Your living room speaks volumes about your personality and can set the tone for the rest of the house. Having a beautiful space for entertaining guests, friends, or family members can also help you feel proud of your home. It is why many people take great care while designing their living room. Furthermore, there are many different ways in which you can spruce up your living room and hence help it fit your imagination.

Thus, whether you are moving into a new house or want a change of space, this article will give you some of the most helpful tips for a luxurious living room.

1. Play with patterns

The living room can be one of the most vibrant rooms in the house.  Large elongated walls are the perfect way for you to showcase paintings or place collections of plates, artwork, etc. If you live in a colder region and have a fireplace, you could also paint these walls to emulate stones or bricks for a more earthy tone. You could even design a luxury wall fixture that goes on a central wall so that it draws the viewer’s attention and sets the tone for the rest of the room. Many popular contemporary trends also involve the placement of fountains or indoor gardens in the living room. Not only do these add a dynamic and layered movement to space but they also provide a soothing and calming effect due to their natural appeal. They also help make the room appear larger or could also be an offbeat way of filling up excess space. Apart from this, bright colors, geometric-patterned carpets, and floral curtains all add to the tone of the living room. You can also check queen bedroom sets to have an idea of what kind of patterns are in trend. This will help you strike the right balance between traditional and modern patterns.

1. Go wild with the lights

The lighting in a room plays a role in affecting our moods as well as those of our guests. Thus, when picking out lights, ensure that they light up the area perfectly. When it comes to luxurious living rooms, nothing can help you more than a well-placed light fixture. Lighting up the living room happens using a combination of ceiling lamps and a modern floor lamp. Here, a vital characteristic of a luxury living room is lights that act as statement pieces. You should pick out fixtures, such as chandeliers, pendant lights, etc. which illuminate the room. On the other hand, floor lamps come in beautiful designs and you can use these to draw attention to a specific wall or piece of furniture.

1. Throw in a contemporary sculpture

The living room is also a space where you can showcase a wild and extroverted side. Apart from experimenting with different colors, patterns, and lighting, an easy way that you can make your living room leave a lasting impression is by throwing in a sculpture. Many modern artists enjoy drawing from everyday items for creating sculptures that display pop-culture. Thus, adding a sculpture to the living room not only can add a burst of color to space but may also become a point of conversation with visitors.

1. Set up a theme

Setting up a theme for the living room is an easy way for you to decorate when you run out of ideas. The theme for your living room could range from artsy to historic and could even draw from minimalist or maximalist themes. Apart from this, your theme could also be kept simple. If you enjoy traveling, this space could act as a personalized map of your travels by adding all of the pictures or souvenirs you bought during the journey.  You could try adding a metallic finish to a wall for a modern, grungy look and decorate the rest of the room with items with the same finish.

1. A two-part color scheme

When it comes to modern styling, nothing looks as stylish as a properly executed two-part theme. This theme could pick two colors, a dark, and light, to add depth and pattern to a living room. It could even occur in the smaller sections of the room, such as changing the color schemes of the cushion on the sofas or picking out two different sets of sofas with contrasting upholstery. Such combinations are also a favorite of interior designers and they use it extensively in creating exuberant living rooms.

1. Animal prints 

Finally, using animal prints is an increasingly common sight in many living rooms. Historically, people placed the skins of hunted animals on the floor, near the fireplace. While fake skins are now preferred, these prints still come as rugs, placed near a fireplace. Apart from this, you could even design your furniture using animal prints or animal-based themes and carvings. Combining this with floral decor, pastel walls, and differently colored throw pillows adds contrasting tones which places focus on various objects in the space.

Conclusion

In conclusion, unlike a bedroom, the living room is a space that must cater to not only your tastes but also keeps that of your guests in mind. Regarding this, playing with different items as well as themes in the living room can greatly add to how luxurious it feels. Unsurprisingly, it is one of the few spaces in the home where bigger and bolder ideas are welcome and accepted. Thus, we hope that this article successfully helps you design your dream living room.

Author’s Bio

Derek Edison Is an Interior Decorator and a passionate writer who loves to write about creating an aesthetic and ambient living environment for everyone. He focuses on sharing ideas and techniques learned from his experience as an Interior Decorator in a concise manner so that it can be used by everyone to make their surroundings beautiful to live in.

 When it comes to home decor, most of the people pay attention to the living room, kitchen and other rooms where they spend most of their time. Bathrooms are important, but with modern home planning, they usually get the least space which means that a lot of us end up using small bathrooms, which doesn’t have to be that bad, after all. Granted, usually with a small bathroom you can’t have a luxurious leg bathtub, but with some effort and creativity, you too can make your small bathroom look elegant and expensive. Read on to find out how to make it happen.

First, arrange everything properly

Small bathrooms can be somewhat limiting so before you decide to decorate, make sure that all the bathroom furniture is well-arranged so you’ll be able to maximize the small space that you have. Place the toilet seat and the sink in such a way so you’ll be able to wash your hands as soon as you’re done using the toto toilet, and find a bath that’s not too big, but also make sure that you’ll have enough space to have a comfortable shower. Similarly, you should be careful when placing a trash can, toilet paper holder or any type of storage solution. If all your bathroom essentials are properly placed, that means that there are no unused spaces, which will make your small bathroom look practical and stylish.

Keeping your bathroom clean also makes sure you have an elegant vibe, I think that goes without saying.

Marble details

Marble makes everything more luxurious, just think of all the fancy restaurants and five-star hotels that almost exclusively always have marble details. Now, if your bathroom’s too small, that doesn’t mean that marble floor, sink, vanity or even walls won’t work. On the contrary, you’ll have an ultimate elegant bathroom, and what’s even better, you don’t need to worry about other decor pieces, since with marble, your bathroom is already pretty enough. If you’re unsure about the color, just go with the white marble, as it’s classic, timeless and can be matched with other colors without it being too much.

Bathtubs are important, too

Your bathroom, no matter how small, you need a proper place to relax and wash everything away, whether it’s actual dirt, sweat or just mental baggage of the day. A bathtub is a place for comfort, so it needs to look elegant, even if your bathroom isn’t that big. You don’t need a lot of space to have a high-quality designer bath, because, with a bit of planning, you’ll be able to enjoy in a bubble bath with some aromatic candles and the music you love! Don’t underestimate the importance of a proper bath, as that’s the place where you can have some time for yourself, without being disturbed by anybody else.

Black and white tiles

For those who prefer French elegance, having black and white tiles is a must have. If you don’t feel like experimenting, you can add simple ceramic tiles that you can combine with other silver or gold elements. That will give your bathroom an ultimate elegant vibe. But if you wish to try various other designs, you can opt for other patterns such as art deco or hexagon patterns. There are too many styles, and you don’t need to limit yourself to the bathroom floor since many of them can be used to decorate the walls as well. As Karl Lagerfeld said, “Black and white always looks modern, whatever that word means.” So, trends come and go, but black and white is forever, and that can be applied to bathrooms, too.

Add a statement massive mirror

There’s no easier way to add some elegance to your tiny bathroom than to get a statement mirror. There are different sizes and frames, depends on what you’d like to achieve with it. If it’s only for decoration purposes, then it’s better to opt for a small, round on with a slightly larger frame, such as a starburst mirror. If you feel like experimenting with something a bit more unusual, you can get a funky multi circle wall mirror, but keep in mind that it’s more of a decoration piece than an actual mirror, even though you can use it as such. Large statement mirror is a great choice for small bathroom spaces as it can be used to beautify the bathroom and turn the attention away from a lack of room.

Small bathrooms can be practical because they’re easier to maintain and keep clean. You can decorate it any way you want, so if you want to make it look elegant, some of these tips above will definitely help you.  Just remember to be careful about the amount of furniture and other details so your tiny bathroom won’t look too cluttered. Elegance is all about keeping the balance and knowing the fine line between stylish and too many details.

Guest post: Chloe Taylor

Modern Interior Design Trends 2019

Staying on par with the latest trends can be challenging in the world of interior design which is so fast-paced that today’s cool can become tomorrow’s passé. Luckily, the Décor + Design Show in Melbourne is a great weathervane where influencers are presenting next hot interior trends, innovative furnishings, and home décor items much earlier than they become mainstream. Let’s delve into the home interior design trends we’re about to see in 2019.  

Wellness kitchens

With many people pursuing healthy lifestyles which include more thought given to food sourcing, preparation, and sustainability, the evolving concept of the wellness kitchen is starting to include recycled and sustainable, but hygienic materials, as well as designs and layouts that promote social interaction and foster family relationships. Revolving around simplicity, wellness kitchens are therapeutic spaces –  ordered, organized, and de-cluttered environments that help homeowners feel relaxed and even grow some of the living produce in small-scale indoor farming units. With sage green the predominant colour, the other choices include pastels and neutrals like stonewashed blue and rose beige, as well as oatmeal and mist grey.

Bathroom retreats

Bathrooms seem to follow the suit in their own way, becoming places devoted to personal wellbeing, rather than simply functional and necessary places. A 2019 bathroom is a sanctuary that gives protection from trials and tribulations of modern life, as well as a refuge from stresses within the home itself. Time, privacy, and quiet have become new luxuries, so in efforts to create calming bathroom environments, interior designers have begun incorporating many elements of cozy living rooms, which include small soft upholstered pieces, pendant lighting clusters with dimming options, and plenty of comfy accessories like cushions. In addition, with the inclusion of timber elements, a bathroom can become a zen-like meditation chamber.

Marble decors

In the few past decades, marble has unjustly fallen out of the spotlight of interior design so much that at mentioning this noble stone as a design element, people envisage spacious, cold rooms adorned with motionless ornate sculptures. But now marble is back, as designers are finding innovative ways to give a classic touch to interior decor and still keep it modern. However, the key to successfully using this timeless element is to use it in small quantities, in accents and statement pieces such as half-columns that divide a bigger space, or having a partial marble floor anchoring your dining room table. A marble-topped coffee table makes a valuable addition to your home that is to last for generations.

Innovative bedroom lighting

Although the 2018 Australia Houzz & Home Renovation Trends Study shows that kitchens still top the lists of interior remodels frequency, bedrooms are following close behind, pushing the bathrooms to the third place. Instead of resorting to the traditional ceiling and wall options, interior designers are inventing new ways to incorporate ambient lighting into bedrooms. When it comes to lighting, keep in mind that however DIY-savvy you may be, unlicensed electrical work is illegal in many places, Australia included. Whichever solution you chose, it’s always better to let a qualified Sydney electrician install the lighting. Inherently a place of rest and intimacy, the bedroom has never been on terms with traditional lighting options, so an ultra-modern and chic bright white bed platform with integrated indirect lighting feels just the thing you need. Another innovative bedroom design focuses on creating a soothing atmosphere with a large mattress on the floor, abundance of timber and recessed floor lighting.

Curved furniture

Hugely popular in the 1960s and a source of ridicule from then on, curved furniture pieces made a surprising impact at recent design shows, ending the decades’ long reign of rigid lines. A crimson kidney-shaped velvet sofa can lend an otherwise masculine room a quintessential touch of sensuality, and protecting it from falling unto a fad that will soon expire. Curved lines are also seen taking hold on table tops, even rugs, but the return of curved sofas seems like the most intriguing trend of 2019 interior design.

Return of the boho

While it never truly faded away, boho has impacted the design world a decade ago, but the rich offset nature of that style couldn’t keep up with trends that increasingly focused on subdued forms of expressive design. However, no one could hope that we’ll see it again in almost every list and every showroom featuring 2019 interior design trends, but then it’s not difficult to see why. Boho design feels unexpected – it will definitely set your home apart, but perhaps the most alluring feature of this eclectic decorating style is its ability to effortlessly include a whimsical character in almost any residential environment.

The interior colours and design trends of 2019 mirror the cultural impulse of people to find harmony in life and support each other instead of spending money on lavish furnishings. With boldly eccentric and often costly decorating ideas behind us, this year promises a succession of trends that are practical, eco-friendly, and comfortable.

Americans love to give gifts but sometimes it’s difficult to wrap them in a unique way that disguises what’s inside or step away from store-bought wrapping paper. All gifts, whether they’re homemade or bought, can be transformed into something with the wow factor if it’s presented in the right way, whether it’s hiding jewelry within another gift or having custom-made wrapping paper to bring an extra big smile to the recipients face.

Spice up gift cards

Despite 60% of Americans feel happy about receiving gift cards, making them the most popular item on people’s wish list, they look quite underwhelming, especially when the recipient is surrounded by large gifts wrapped in colorful paper with ribbons and bows. There are plenty of ways to spruce up the presentation of gift cards that can make your gift stand out. Get a mason jar, fill the it with candy and hide the gift card in the middle to make a great surprise for someone, especially if you don’t mind them thinking that you didn’t get them much until they go to look at it later in the day. This also gives them something to unwrap, making it a good option for children. Another idea is to use printable templates to make personalized gift card holders that have a colorful print or say on them what the gift is for, such as ‘thank you’ or ‘happy birthday’.

Notebooks, phone, and tablet cases

The majority of people now have a phone and/or tablet and they want to protect these with cases that reduce the risk of the screens getting damaged or water getting into them. Similarly to gift cards, these types of gifts can look underwhelming when wrapped in a conventional way. You could add some ribbons and bows to make them look more special and even get custom-printed wrapping paper so that it acts as an additional gift. For example, you could have the paper printed with the recipient’s favorite photos on, such as memories together, holidays, pets and family. This also works well for notebooks and other gifts that are flat so will show the paper off well.

Necklaces, bracelets and other jewelry

Wrapping jewelry can be difficult because it’s often small and fiddly, which is why jewelry boxes are always a go-to. While these look nice and present the jewelry well, they’re pretty predictable. One option is to throw the recipient off guard completely by wrapping the gift in a Russian doll style, where you use a bigger box and they gradually open the boxes until they reach the smallest one that contains your gift. If you are looking for a place to buy viking arm ring, be sure to check out different websites and offers. Alternatively, disguise the jewelry in with another gift, such as putting a bracelet on a teddy bear, a necklace around a box of chocolates or buy a jewelry holder and put some earrings on it. Not only does the recipient get two gifts, but they won’t be expecting the jewelry to be part of it. 

Get creative with cufflinks

Cufflinks are similar to wrapping jewelry, particularly earrings, due to their size, but not many men will appreciate a jewelry holder. If you’re feeling particularly creative you could draw a picture or do a painting, anything to create a scene. Add the cufflinks as part of the artwork to disguise them. How effective this depends on the cufflinks as quirky ones will fit into a lot of different painting ideas, but you could use plain ones to add some shine to a scene of stars in the night’s sky.

The person receiving the gift from you will remember your gift as you’ll have put more thought, time and effort into making it extra special for them. This can transform a simple gift into something unforgettable or completely throw someone off who’s expecting jewelry.

Guest Post by: 

Jane Sandwood

When much of your working life revolves around using computers and other electronic devices, it's essential to feel comfortable with your equipment. Comfort doesn't just mean an operating system that meets your needs - it's also about the actual feel of the product.

Whether it's a touchscreen with precisely the right level of sensitivity and the perfect display, or a keyboard that lets your fingers fly, an interface that enables you to maximize productivity is crucial to working life.

Anyone marketing electronic products, whether to offices or professionals, must bear a few things in mind when designing their product. Here are some excellent ideas for optimizing your offering:

1) Understand the Modern Professional

With many professionals operating outside of the traditional workplace now, equipment is more of a personal statement than ever. The laptop you see using someone on the train is almost an extension of that person, and we need our most prized possessions to fit seamlessly into our lives.

Gone are the days of clunky keyboards and ugly box monitors. There was a time when office workers would look at their desktop interfaces with the kind of loathing seen in the film Office Space. No longer. Professionals today want to love their devices, and if you're going to market your product to them, you need to make it an offering that they're always happy to see.

2) Work with the Best People

When you're planning to bring your product to market, you need to make sure it stands out in every way. Finding experienced partners who can deliver what you're looking for is the best plan in this regard. Consider who you're hoping will buy your product, what you want the design to look like, and how you want it to function.

The right partner will offer a bespoke service and listen to your needs before coming up with a genuinely dazzling solution that makes your product the best it can be. For example, if your design involves a keyboard, Hoffman + Krippner custom input devices are a solution that might help bring your vision to fruition.

Never accept less than the best in terms of design and execution. Your customers won't, so you can't either.

3) A Better Kind of Office

Of course, the traditional office workplace is still very much alive and kicking, but that doesn't mean it can't undergo some improvement.

As well as professionals who work on the go, marketing your product to companies who work in-house will be far easier if they feel you're able to bring their workplace into the 21st Century. Slick design and user-friendly interfaces make a company far more attractive for potential new hires, as well as improving worker productivity.

Whether it's a calculator or a laptop, your product will benefit from a design that is comfortable for users and visually appealing. Keep on top of design trends and consider what would bring the contemporary workplace to life. Being attuned to current demands is critical in making a product that will succeed.

4) Keep It Simple

Simplicity is beauty. This rule is especially true of sophisticated electronic devices. Accessibility is everything to the busy professional, so making sure you're not overcrowding your product with features will help it sell. An approachable interface and simple, pleasing design are vital to creating a marketable product.

Article provided by Scott Law 

While a majority of homeowners think that updating their home means making big investments, boosting the look of your house doesn’t have to involve any large-scale home improvement projects. Quite the opposite, minor upgrades go a long way in transforming your living space, and sometimes, all it takes is a few changes here and there to boost the look of your home. With that in mind, we’re listing our top six effortless tweaks you can make around the house and make it go from drab to fab in a snap. Scroll down to get inspired!

Change out the old and dated lighting fixtures

How illuminated our living space plays a vital role in how we perceive our living space, and dark, poorly lit spaces certainly don’t look appealing. A simple yet effective decorating tool, lighting has the ability to completely transform the interior, and when placed strategically, it can showcase the beauty of your home by illuminating and highlighting all the different ornaments and artwork displayed. In order to bring life into a dull, plain room, add a couple of different sources of light, and layer them to achieve the desired effect.

Since our styles evolve and change throughout the years, it’d be best if you’d introduce lighting fixtures that are in line with the current design style of your home. If you're not sure what the current trends are with lighting it may be worth talking to a lighting specialist like Connect Electric so they can point you in the right direction. By swapping your old and dated lighting fixtures, your living space will seem more cohesive and will look fresh and rejuvenated without you breaking the bank.

Include decor with luxurious-looking patterns

Another decor element you can use to make your space look more balanced and cohesive is the use of certain patterns in your living space. If you notice that you are drawn to one pattern in particular, try to introduce it into different areas of your home. Marble pattern continues to be one of the trendiest patterns among homeowners, and it’s easy to see why. Chic and sophisticated, marble comes in a variety of forms and incorporating it into your living space is a great way to add a touch of luxury and create an aura of sophistication. Because it’s so effective and eye-catching, it’s best to introduce it in small doses throughout your living space. Incorporate this stylish pattern into your home through decorative touches and accents – stationery, trays, and wall art will help you get the luxurious look without any huge investment while also giving a subtle nod to the marble trend.

For a modern touch that seamlessly blends style and durability, consider incorporating metal accents into your design. Whether through decorative elements, furniture, or wall art, metals can elevate your space with a sleek, contemporary vibe. Explore unique and high-quality options at Metal Plex to find pieces that add sophistication and character to your interiors.

Swap your hardware for something fresh and modern

You might think that in order to freshen up your living space, you’ll need to update your home from top to bottom, but that is not necessarily true. Beauty lies in the details, and sometimes, even the smallest of changes go a long way in transforming your living space. Swapping out your hardware is one way of rejuvenating your living space that won’t set you back a lot, but will still have an immense impact on how sophisticated and glamorous your whole space looks. Up the glam factor in your home with a set of luxury door handles and give your doors a fresh new look. Pay attention to the style of your home so you get the matching hardware and create a sense of cohesiveness in your living space. Take it a step further and replace the kitchen cabinet hardware as well – introduce new pulls and knobs to give your kitchen the face-lift it needed in the single most affordable way.

Use wallpapers to give your walls an instant update

A versatile decorating tool, wallpapers are perfect for transforming spaces without going over the top or breaking the bank. They are easy to install, rather inexpensive, and can make all the difference when used strategically. Make the simple entrance more inviting by opting for wallpapers with patterns on them to change the mood in your home or renew it in a simple, yet effective way. Add tasteful wallpaper to your dining room to make it more inviting and comfortable, and go with a wallpaper that makes a statement in the living room. Instead of papering the entire room, it’d be better to with half-wall application to add a subtle accent to your space or use wallpaper to create an accent wall and make a powerful impression.

Paint the ceiling to make it pop

Another inexpensive upgrade you can make to rejuvenate your interiors may come as something unexpected but according to many professional interior designers it’s sure to give a boost to the overall appeal of your room. Although they’re often an overlooked design element that is painted in a neutral shade by default, ceilings offer a decorating opportunity that can completely transform the look and feel of your living space. Make a stunning statement by painting your ceiling in unexpected hues such as black or navy, or go with a faux stone paint treatment to add an elegant touch to your living space and enhance the architectural interest of your ceiling. You could also add patterns to your ceilings by adding wallpaper, stenciling the pattern on, or getting a professional to create the pattern by hand.

Add artwork to spruce up your interior

Accessories and home decor tell a story about the people who live there, what their personality is like and what their values are. The artwork is one of the things that add character to the home and when woven into the overall design, it can have an immense impact on the entire appeal of the living space. Go with art that speaks to you and that matches the overall style of your interiors. You can choose bigger, oversized pieces or you can go with smaller groupings of photographs and art – either of the options will make a major design impact, acting as the perfect finishing touch in a room. Of course, the artwork you choose to hang on your walls doesn’t have to cost too much – just make sure to frame it nicely so it blends in nicely with the entire design concept of your living space.

These are some of the most effective tweaks you can make to boost the appeal of your home. Whether you decide to incorporate one, two, or all of the six ideas suggested above, you’re sure to make an instant update that won’t go unnoticed. Use our tips as a guide for your micro makeover and design a space that is a reflection of your personality as well as good taste.

Guest Post by Chloe Taylor

On the surface, minimalism might seem simple and straightforward, but in reality, this approach to interior design can be highly complex and nuanced, making it difficult to master. Many a time, homeowners will abandon their dreams of creating a truly minimalist living environment simply because they don’t understand the key concepts that make minimalism work, it’s foundation, and its uniqueness. It’s easy to make a minimalist setting look too empty, monotonous, or uninspiring, and that’s because minimalism is not so much about the absence of décor as it is about its strategic implementation.

Today, let’s delve deep into minimalist interior design, and explore the key concepts that you can use to make minimalism work in your home by bringing form and function together. Here’s what you need to know.

Elevate functionality by decluttering

The first key consideration that affects both the form and the function of a room you need to know about is flexibility. Minimalism might not be the absence of décor per se, but it certainly is the absence of clutter, which invariably elevates the flexibility and maneuverability in the room, while at the same time elevating its aesthetic appeal. This is why your first job is to declutter your living environment thoroughly.

There are two main ways to declutter: getting rid of your stuff, or storing it in concealed storage spaces. Before you start putting everything in drawers and hollow ottomans, though, be sure to get rid of as much extraneous décor as you can. But instead of simply throwing stuff away, be sure to see if someone might make use of the things you no longer use, and donate these belongings to charities. You can even try to sell some pieces online if you’re parting ways with something of material value.

Discover beauty in simplistic forms

Minimalism relies heavily on complementary as well as contrasting shapes and forms, which can make it quite difficult to successfully mix and match décor elements. Oftentimes, the look and feel of the room might continue to seem like it’s cluttered simply because the shapes of the furniture, architectural elements, and the amenities are at odds with each other. This is why a good idea would be to stick to the basic shapes such as squares and rectangles, complemented by common lines such as horizontal, vertical, diagonal, crisscross lines, and curved lines.

You can use circular or elliptical shapes for your focal points, which we will touch upon shortly. Sticking to these basic shapes and lines will allow you to frame the design of your stylish living environment and unify the minimalist look and feel, all the while setting a beautiful foundation for the complementary accents. With the foundation comprised of these essential elements, you will also be able to bring in truly captivating focal points later on, which will give every room its unique aesthetic appeal and bring the minimalist design to life.

Bring the space to life with floor accents

To make the minimalist design truly shine, you need to make every room unique in its aesthetic appeal, but without cluttering the space with extraneous décor element. One of the best ways to do that is to bring a vibrant floor accent into the mix, such as an ornate rug in the seating area, or a cozy standing spot underneath the kitchen island. It’s important that the rug doesn’t interfere with the minimalist setting, yet that it frames that area of the room.

Over the years, creative companies have perfected many styles of carpets and improved their look and feel to fit every interior design approach, such as the popular Miss Amara NZ that offers minimalist-friendly rugs in monochrome designs, jute styles, and classic looks that go with everything. It’s important that you choose a pattern that complements the shapes and lines we mentioned previously, but the shape of the rug itself is allowed to stand out – such as a circular carpet underneath a square-shaped seating area in the living room.

Use colors strategically

People often think that the minimalist color scheme consists of black and white colors, and while it is true that the foundation of the room should be as neutral as possible, that doesn’t mean that you can’t play around with some vibrant color options. You just have to use strong colors strategically and place them in the inner parts of the space.

What this means is that minimalism comes to life with pure white and off-white walls that, for example, will allow a beautiful marble floor or slab to shine in all its glory. Once you have the foundation in place, you can use vibrant colors for your pillows, blankets, and other throws on the furniture to give every piece its unique flair. And speaking of uniqueness, let’s move on to the focal points.

Introduce a focal point in every room

Finally, keep in mind that every room deserves to have a striking focal point that will tie the whole minimalist look together. Now, a focal point can be anything from a grand focal wall in the dining room, to a lush potted plant in the corner of the living room, or a set of vibrant paintings over the fireplace – it all depends on your personal taste. When it comes to focal points, you are free to let your imagination take the reins, but keep in mind not to overdo it. Instead, make sure to stick with one such feature per room.

Minimalism is not just about the aesthetic appeal of a clutter-free interior, it’s also about the functionality and comfort it brings to your home. With these design tips in mind, you will be able to bring a beautiful minimalist living environment to life imbued with happiness and zeal.

Member Guest Post: 

Lana Hawkins

Have you ever been to a luxury hotel? If you have, you most definitely noticed that the bathrooms at these hotels are really amazing. Who knew that so much design and style could be implemented inside a bathroom?! Luxury bathrooms have a lot of amazing elements that make them super comfortable and beautiful. I, for one, have been obsessed with upgrading my bathroom to make it look amazing after I saw a luxury bathroom, and who wouldn't want their bathroom to appear luxe and lavish. 

Now, adding some of the big stuff like a hot tub might be a little expensive, but there are a lot of other areas where an upgrade can really make your bathroom look amazing and inviting. There are a lot of easy and amazing ways in which you can make your bathroom look super luxurious and amazing.  

      Upgrade the Walls

You should start from the basics, one of the main elements of a bathroom or any other room that affects its style and design is, of course, the walls. You need to add a little more style and design to the walls of your bathroom. Neutral colors that are soothing and calming are the way to go for the paint of the bathroom walls. 

You should also consider adding some elegant tiles to your walls. There are a lot of amazing options for tiles in the market, choose some in a neutral color that are in contrast with the rest of the installments in your bathroom. You can also add some artwork to your walls to make them look more amazing and add an extra design element to your bathroom. 

      Add Large Mirrors

A very distinct feature that you may have noticed in luxury bathrooms is that they tend to have very large mirrors. These mirrors have a lot of functionality when it comes to the design and style of your bathroom. First of all, the large mirrors make your bathroom feel bigger and more spacious than it actually is. The mirrors also improve the lighting of the bathroom and add a lot of style and design to it. Also, this is a fairly inexpensive upgrade that can significantly improve the look of your bathroom. 

      Improve the Lighting

The lighting is one of the most important design features that can make or break the design of a room. Even if you have the most elegant decor and the best-designed room, if they aren't properly lit, they can feel uninviting. The same concept applies to your bathroom. You need to put some effort into the lighting fixtures of the bathroom because a simple overhead light is just not going to work. Add multiple LED ceiling lights and also look into adding some pendant lights in front of the large mirror to help you in your makeup or grooming. 

Like any other room, a luxury bathroom also needs to have a balance of natural and artificial light. If your bathroom already doesn't have one, you should add a window. You can use one-way glass or some decorative glass on the window to make it look more elegant. If you have a window, you will also need to add some window fixtures. Elegant looking blinds that are in contrast with the paint and other elements of your bathroom are the best option in my opinion.    

      Add Some Luxury Accessories

Now, if you are upgrading your bathroom, you will need to add some luxury accessories. This phase of the upgrade depends a lot upon your budget. If you have the budget, you need to go for some amazing luxury items like a hot tub or a walk-in shower. But if you are a little low on budget, then don't worry; there are a lot of amazing luxury accessories that you can add to your bathroom on a budget. 

One easy and affordable luxury upgrade that you can easily install yourself is a new showerhead. There are a lot of amazing options available in the market. You should also get some other elegant looking accessories for your bathroom like a stylish and elegant soap dispenser, trashcan, toothbrush holder and soap holder. You should also buy some good quality shampoos, conditioners, soaps and body wash as these products are also essential luxury accessories. You can go to HomeAddons to check some amazing products and their reviews. 

      Add Some Decorative Soaps and Candles

After you are done with the larger upgrades, you should also add some small elements that will complete the look of your bathroom. Start by buying some decorative soaps and displaying them on your sink counter. These soaps can add a lot of color to the design of your bathroom, and they can also add an amazing fragrance to the place, which is essential for the luxury feel. 

You should also place some scented decorative candles in your bathroom. You can light the candles while taking a bath to fill the place up with an amazing scent. These candles also contribute to the rich color pallet of your bathroom. You should also place some amazing decorative towels in the bathroom for a luxury feel.  

      Add a Stone Counter to the Sides of Your Sink

Another very common design feature that can be seen in almost every luxury bathroom is countertops on the sides of the sink. Many normal bathrooms don't have any countertops on the sides of the sign, and they are missing out on a lot of advantages. 

Firstly, these countertops make your bathroom look amazing and luxurious, but they also have a lot of utility. They can give you a lot of extra storage space in the bathroom if you create drawers and cabinets under the countertop. You can also place a lot of extra items on these countertops. You can place your decorative soaps and candles, and you can also keep all of your toiletries and accessories on the countertops. Sink side countertops are an essential design feature that you should add to your bathroom if you want the luxury look and feel.    

About the Author:

This post is written by Andrea Smith. She loves traveling, home decorating and hanging out with her friends. She is currently a student of Interior Designing at the California Arts School. She regularly writes blogs at https://homeaddons.com/.

Sometimes, decorating your home may feel a bit too complicated and overwhelming, especially with so many “rules” that you’re supposed to stick to. But, the secret of the most beautiful interiors is finding a home décor that is to your own preference. In case you’re not sure what to do, here are some tips about decorating myths that shouldn't be ignored.

1. The Ceiling Should Always Be White

You have probably heard numerous times that regardless of the color of your walls, the ceiling should always be kept plain white. Well, that’s simply not true. Certain wall shades such as bold yellow or deep green don’t match well with a stark white ceiling at all – especially if there are no other white elements in the room. That said, don’t hesitate to opt for other, more complementary shades for your ceiling that actually match the walls and furniture effectively.

2. Never Mix Patterns and Prints

Another well-known decorating myth says that you should never mix different prints and patterns in your interior. And, as you can probably guess, this isn’t necessarily true at all. These days, eclectic décor style is gaining in popularity and if you know how to pair your prints and patterns, you can easily introduce them in any room together. Don’t hesitate to let your creativity and personality shine through your décor just because there’s such an outdated decorating myth going around.

3. The Chairs Should Always Come in a Matching Set

Completely false. What’s more, different styles and types of chairs can look especially well together. Of course, there should be one common element to unify them, but you’re never limited to specific sets. The same goes for your sofa, armchairs and ottomans. It’s true that it was common to buy these items in matching sets in the past, but in this day and age, it’s more effective and interesting to effectively pair items that differ from each other, especially when seating arrangement is concerned.

4. Dark Colours Aren’t Fit for Small Rooms

It’s very common to hear that small rooms should always be painted in light and neutral colours to create a visually bigger space. However, that’s not entirely true. What creates the visually bigger space is the use of one unified colour for the entire room. In that respect, you can freely use darker shades such as deep green, blue or burgundy; the point is to choose one shade that feels most pleasant to you personally. Whether it’s dark or not doesn’t have any merit at all.

5. Décor Pieces Should Match

Now, this myth definitely doesn’t make sense. If you can have furniture of different styles you better believe that you can feature decorative bits and bobs as well as artwork of different style, too. The only thing that you need to remember here is that the décor you want to use makes you feel happy. And you can still find a way to match them in your own creative way. That said, if you like how the dark forest print looks next to the marble geometric art piece, go for it! And if you like how the marble tray pairs against a wicker plant pot, feel free to arrange them that way. This is definitely an aspect of your home where the only one to set the rules should be you.

6. Never Use Outdoor Elements for Indoor Décor

The separation between the outdoors and indoors has been clearly made, but you don’t really have to honour that separation for absolutely every single décor element. For instance, climbing plants can look especially charming and whimsical in any interior – they are not reserved for your yard only. Furthermore, you can always use timber cladding for your interior design if your goal is to create a warmer, cosier, and more cabin-like personal environment. Also, if it matches your decorating style, feel free to play with wicker for your indoor furniture as well, and maybe even stone structures such as tall statues for a striking focal point. In the end, your home is your canvas.

7. Don’t Mix Different Metals

Using metal finishes for your hardware and other surfaces is really popular, especially since you can choose between different kinds of metal as well as mat and glossy coating. In general, gold and copper are warm tones while silver and nickel are considered to be cool tones. And, as you probably already know, the myth states that you should never mix these metals together. Well, if you want to add more dimension and glamour to your personal space, you can do exactly that!

8. Keep Your Art High Up

A very common decorating myth states that you should always place your art pieces high up. It’s said that your other decorative elements such as flower vases and similar should never obscure your art. Well, the truth is that this can look rather awkward and impersonal. Feel free to move that art down. It should be at least at your eye level. Also, there’s nothing wrong with other decorative elements covering a corner of your artwork. This can actually look a lot more endearing and personal compared to keeping everything at a safe distance.

9. Scatter Cushions Should Always Be an Odd Number

It’s really strange that this particular decorating myth has gained so much momentum. In reality, you don’t have to obsess with odd numbers or any numbers for that matter. When it comes to scattering cushions and other decorative elements that you want to group, use as many as you want. It really doesn’t matter whether there are 2, 9 or 20 of them; if you find the number satisfactory, there’s nothing else to think about.

You’re decorating your own home and, in that respect, the only rules that you should be following are your own. Obviously, it’s important to know what you want to achieve both looks- and functionality-wise, but that doesn’t mean that you need to let old decorating myths limit your creativity.

 Guest post: Kevin Jefferson

Designing a home that looks glamorous and expensive doesn’t necessarily mean swapping all your furniture for state-of-the-art pieces. On the contrary, all it takes is learning how to work with what you have and adding some luxe elements in order to create a glamorous vibe. Here, we’re laying out six essential tips to help you revamp your living space and make it look more luxurious.

Declutter your living space

Before you start with redesigning your home, you need to get rid of all the things that create clutter. Be it old clothing, broken accessories, and that dress you bought one size smaller as a way of motivating yourself to lose weight – they all need to go. Whether you choose to donate your things or sell them online is up to you. Decluttering plays a major role in creating spaces that are sophisticated and chic, where the accent is on simplicity and scarcity of displayed items. Try using the now popular KonMari method of decluttering, if you haven’t already – it’ll free up so much space in your home, allowing you to proudly display those things that truly bring joy to your life.

Be marbleous – implement elements with marble pattern

There is something about marble that just makes people lose their marbles – its sleek design and elegant splashes of colors can elevate the look of any room and make it feel classy and refined. No wonder so many homeowners are deciding to include the marble trend into their homes, one way or another. Some go bold and include marble pattern on larger surfaces such as countertops and desks, while others decide to go for something subtler. If you fall into the latter category, there are several ways you can incorporate marble into your living space without going over the top. Stationery like notebooks and stickers are a great way to make your office desk look chic while incorporating marble wall art in your living room will give it a luxurious flair.

Add fabulous wall mirrors for a grander feel

Just like metallics, mirrors are a great way to add a luxe flair to your space and enhance the visual interest of the room. Mirrors are a rather inexpensive way to give your room a grander feel and they’re one of the tricks interior designers use to create an illusion of spaciousness. Mirrors play with our perception, and when placed strategically, they can have a significant impact on how the room looks. They’re a quintessential tool in decorating luxurious spaces and are often used in smaller homes to make them appear larger. Go for oversized wall mirrors to add a glamorous, jewel-box effect to your living room and opt for the large, ornate wall mirror above your bed to add some bling to your bedroom, too.

Choose a glamorous palette for your living space

What colors you choose for your living space largely depends on the emotion you want to convey. Because neutrals are such calming colors, many homeowners decide to paint their walls in white, beige or gray. All these colors infuse the space with serenity and bring an aura of sophistication, and they look especially good when paired with metallics. Some classic color and metal combinations you can use for creating luxurious spaces are gray and platinum, black and white with copper accents, and blush pink combined with golden tones. Gold is especially useful for adding glamour to an otherwise plain space – just by adding a silk or satin throw pillow, a lamp and some candle holders in golden hues, you can make your home look sophisticated and refined.

Replace your old tapware

If you’re looking for a fast and easy way to make your home look stylish and modern, consider replacing your old tapware. Leaking faucets and worn and torn shower heads are an indicator of neglect, and they can make your home look dated and unkempt. Consider giving your tapware a makeover – switch your old taps for something new and modern. Taps with a rounded design and a stylish brushed gold finish are always an excellent choice while opting for square chrome shower heads can really give your bathroom a luxurious vibe. Give your sinks and showers a whole new look by opting for Phoenix tapware – choose from a wide range of premium quality tapware and choose the model, color, and style that best fits your interior design style.

Spruce up your home with a variety of textures

Textures play an important role in designing spaces that are visually appealing, and they’re a great way to bring an extra dimension to your decor. Introducing a variety of textures is the time-old trick that professional stylists use to create balance and harmony into any room, regardless of its design style. Apply this trick by varying the materials in your living space – a couple of faux fur throw pillows and a sheepskin rug will soften the materials such as stone and leather. The same effect is achieved by adding luxurious, velvet curtains and a placing a soft, knit blanket over the sofa. Incorporating a variety of textures will add character to your living space and make it feel cozy and inviting.

Turning your home into a stylish oasis is easy – use these six tips to revamp your home and give it a luxe flair.

Guest post by: 

Chloe Taylor