If you want an artsy, eclectic-looking bedroom, decorate it with a color scheme of mulberry and turquoise. Mulberry is a reddish-purple tone, similar to plum or wine, that contrasts well with vibrant turquoise. To break up the two bright hues, incorporate a fresh neutral color, such as white, into the look. Since a mulberry-and-turquoise color combination works in bedrooms for both adults and children, it's ideal if you're looking for a long-term bedroom design.
Instructions
1. Paint the bedroom walls a light-to-medium turquoise shade to set the backdrop for the color combination. Choose crisp white paint if you prefer to use a neutral hue.
2. Decorate the bed with a turquoise quilt or comforter. Accent the bedding by folding a mulberry-hued cashmere throw blanket at the base of the bed. Create a luxurious look by piling several mulberry- and turquoise-hued decorative pillows at the top of the bed.
3. Place a bench featuring a mulberry-hued velvet cushion at the foot of the bed as a decorative seating element. Create a reading nook with a mulberry-colored chair and white accent table. Set a white bookcase against the wall to have reading materials close at hand.
4. Decorate the room with coordinating white bedroom furniture, such as a headboard, night stand and dresser set; white pieces provide a fresh contrast to the bright colors.
5. Complete the look with mulberry and turquoise decor items. Place a lamp featuring a white base and a mulberry and turquoise damask print shade on a night stand or table. Accent a wall shelf with a turquoise vase holding purple flowers, such as hydrangeas. Place sweet-scented mulberry candles in white holders to give the bedroom a soft ambiance.
Tags: bedroom walls, color combination, mulberry turquoise, night stand, Paint bedroom, Paint bedroom walls, with turquoise
Shower faucets are available in a variety of styles and finishes.
One of the simplest ways to update the look of your bathroom is to replace the faucet on your shower. Also known as a shower head, shower faucets are available in many colors and designs, with a variety of available features. The shower faucet threads onto the downspout, which is the pipe that protrudes from the wall. To ensure that the faucet does not leak at the connection point, you must apply plumber's tape to the threading on the downspout. Once installed, you can immediately begin enjoying your new shower faucet.
Instructions
1. Shut off the water to the faucet.
2. Remove the old shower faucet by rotating the base counterclockwise and lifting the faucet off. If necessary, use an adjustable wrench or pliers to loosen the connection. If you are planning to reuse the faucet, wrap masking tape around the wrench or pliers to protect the finish.
3. Wrap the threading on the downspout with plumber's tape, applied clockwise.
4. Screw the new shower faucet onto the downspout until tight. If installing a hand-held unit, screw the base onto the downspout.
5. Screw the hose into the base of the hand-held shower faucet until tight, if installing a hand-held unit.
6. Turn on the water and inspect all connections for leaks. Tighten the connections if any leaks are detected.
Your bedroom design speaks volumes about your personal style. Whether modern, rustic, or romantic, your bedroom should be inviting and uncluttered, and, above all, comfortable.
The Bed
The bed is the central element of your bedroom, and sets the room's tone. Choose a bed that fits the room: a four-poster will overwhelm a small bedroom, but a platform bed might look lost in a large one.
Modern Bedrooms
Pops of pink keep this from seeming too formal.
A modern bedroom features clean, straight lines and a minimum of furniture. Choose pieces inspired by mid-century designs, or a low, Japanese-style bed.
Romantic Bedrooms
An ornate bed and a chandelier add romance to this bedroom.
Plush textiles and comforting colors are the hallmark of a romantic bedroom. Try washes of warm color on the walls, or softly patterned wallpaper.
Rustic Bedrooms
A rustic bedroom has the same minimalism as a modern room, but uses organic, even-unfinished materials. For a rustic look, dress a birch bed with a hand-stitched quilt, and use natural, milk-based paints on the walls.
Multi-Functional Bedrooms
If you have a small house or an apartment, your bedroom might do double duty as an office or living room. Use a bookcase or folding screen to conceal the bed and create two separate spaces.
So, you have bought a charming old home and you are really excited to start decorating it - well, every room except the PINK BATHROOM!
Well, don't fret, there are plenty of ways to decorate a pink tiled bathroom. And the results can be surprisingly beautiful.
So, embrace the pink and let's get started:
Instructions
1. A pink tiled bathroom that has probably offers the most flexibility in decorating styles. You can decorate your bathroom in a very streamlined, minimalist look, by just decorating with black and white. White linens with black trim or monogram would keep everything classic. Black and white prints, framed in black are another way to keep things simple.
2. Another great look for a pink tiled bathroom is to go Hollywood Glam style! Again, use white linens and accents, but this time, add a chandelier, too, for a real, "Wow!" factor. In other words, embrace the pink and take it to a whole new level. If you've got it (pink tiles), flaunt it!
3. If the trim on your pink tiled bathroom is brown, you are in luck because pink and brown is really popular right now. I would still choose white as the main accent color, but with little touches of brown. Perhaps white towels with brown trim or brown shades on the lighting in the bathroom. You could also bring in some medium or dark wood textures into the bathroom. Maybe even a brown and white damask shower curtain or pink and brown would work as well.
Tags: pink tiled, pink tiled bathroom, tiled bathroom, black trim, decorating with
Consider bright paint colors as opposed to neutral, boring colors.
Too often people create the same boring paint looks in their bathroom as everyone else in their neighborhood. While white paint has its role in home design, you may prefer crazy paint ideas instead. This is especially good for second bathrooms in finished basements or family rooms. Remember that any bathroom paint should be glossy rather than matte to help with moisture protection.
Colors
Go crazy with the colors that you choose for paint. Rather than keeping the walls white and the trim a light pastel color, don't be afraid to go for bright bold colors. Consider the theme of the rest of the bathroom. If you have white towels, you could pull off a bold look by painting the walls black or dark gray.
To put a bit of your own personality into the bathroom, paint the walls with your favorite colors. If you like pink, paint the walls a deep, warm pink color and keep the trim a pastel pink for contrast. Then again, go even crazier and use a rainbow of colors to paint each aspect of the room. Paint one wall green and one wall yellow. Paint the trim in alternating colors of red and orange. Don't forget the ceiling, as you can add a bold color to that as well.
Patterns
Leopard print will turn a drag bathroom into something crazy.
Fun patterns can add a lot of personality to your bathroom walls. For a sexy, sophisticated look, paint your walls with a leopard print pattern using shades of black, brown, yellow and orange. If you like zebra print, utilize black and white paint to recreate this pattern on your bathroom walls.
Print out pictures of your favorite pattern, whether stripes or polka dots, and keep it with you as you paint. This way you keep a reminder of how it should look so the end result is just how you imagined it would be. Use painter's tape to create straight lines if that's a part of your design.
Murals
If you or anyone you know has exceptional artistic talent, consider creating a painted mural on your . If you like the old-world look of the columns and architecture of Italy, create an Italian garden scene on your walls. Not only will this make your bathroom walls look crazy and interesting, it will also make a small bathroom feel larger.
For children's bathrooms, consider painting a mural of your child's favorite things. For those who like the circus, paint a mural of a circus scene complete with elephants, clowns and acrobats. For a daughter who likes girly things, paint the walls with butterflies, flowers and fairies.
Tags: bathroom walls, your bathroom, your bathroom walls, paint walls, walls with, bathroom paint, mural your
A few simple additions can make most dingy unfinished basements a proper bedroom.
An unfinished basement is an often underused part of the home. Even unfinished, a basement may add valuable and flexible space to the home, including adding an extra bedroom. The amount of work required to install an extra bedroom will depend largely on the condition of the basement. In order to make it work, a few simple design techniques may be used to produce a reasonably comfortable, functional bedroom for anyone in the family.
Instructions
1. Repair leaks. Moisture is a common problem in basements, and one that will provide excellent opportunities for mold growth. Prior to any construction or design, leaky pipes, windows or vents should be repaired. If moisture is still a problem, invest in a dehumidifier. A little preventative maintenance will save money and reduce the risk of health problems later on.
2. Hang lights. This project will depend largely on the amount of finishing the space has. If no lighting or wiring is present at all, it must be added either by an experienced do-it-yourselfer or by a professional. Avoid harsh fluorescent bulbs, as they create a sterile, often uncomfortable feel. Opt for recessed can lights or track lighting, which may be strategically positioned to increase light in especially dark areas.
3. Paint walls. Adding color is going to be key in creating a comfortable space. For an unfinished basement, light colors are going to be ideal, as they give a sense of openness and light. White and pastels -- yellow, blue, green -- are all widely used. Be sure to use an appropriate primer coat and latex-based paint, which will resist moisture.
4. Purchase rugs. Since most unfinished basements feature concrete floors, adding area rugs will make a big difference. Not only will they make the space feel more complete, they will make walking on the concrete more comfortable.
5. Add some finishing touches. If studs are exposed or walls are otherwise unsightly, consider covering them. This may be done with visually interesting curtains, blankets or tapestries, or by adding some colorful wall art. Adding bright colored accessories, an armoire for clothing, photos and lots of pattern will make the space feel complete, comfortable and stylish.
Tags: unfinished basement, will make, depend largely, extra bedroom, make space
Are you looking to bring a bit of Italian Country into your home but don’t think you have the budget for it? With the central themes of Tuscan décor being food and nature this is one of the most popular and easiest styles to replicate. Italian country decor takes food, wine and nature and turns it into art. Two of the easiest rooms to incorporate this theme into are the kitchen and dining room.
Instructions
Decorate Your Kitchen and Dining Room with a Tuscan Style
1. Use deep, earthy colors like terra cotta, browns, deep reds, oranges, yellows and greens on your walls and for your accent colors. By adding these colors you will soon feel the touch of the Tuscan countryside in your own home
2. Add natural textures like stone, tile, aged wood, exposed wood beams, iron and copper. Italian country/ Tuscan décor is full of texture, especially on the walls. If you want to give your walls a textured look, Venetian plaster is a good choice, though it can get expensive if you have a large room. It can also be very time consuming. The easiest way to add some texture is by using a texture additive with regular latex paint.
3. Incorporate a few faux wooden beams (if you don’t have real ones) by taking pieces of wood at the desired length and width and framing it in to make a hollow beam. You can distress it by hitting it with a chain or hammer, burning it a little with a torch and scraping it up. Then add your stain and finish it. You’ll have wooden beams at half the price, even cheaper if you find scrap wood that can be used for this project.
4. Change your flooring to stone tiles or hardwood floors or fake it. You can get laminate flooring that looks like hardwood or vinyl tile flooring that looks like stone.
5. Select a few well chosen pieces of furniture and some accessories that can give you the Tuscan feel and look you're going for. You can find old pieces of furniture with an aged and distressed look at flea markets, garage sales, even on the side of the road in someone's garbage. Some pieces of furniture to look for are old style kitchen cabinets, sideboards, buffets, and most important a big farmhouse type dining room table that is large, simple and sturdy.
6. Add some accessories and well chosen accents. Think nature and food. Tuscan décor thrives on food and nature. Terra cotta potsfilled with fresh herbs, wicker baskets full of fruit and vegetables, displays of glass bottles filled with vegetables, fruits, and herbs steeped in vinegar or oil, copper pots on display filled with dried pasta or garlic cloves. Baskets, terra cotta pots, and bottles can all be found very cheaply. Chances are you might already have some of these items sitting around and just didn’t know what to do with them or display them.
7. Think wine and grapes. These are big themes in Italian décor, grapes and grape leaves, grape vine wreaths, anything that incorporates grapes, wine, wine bottles, or wine glasses can be used as décor and accessories. You can also add a small iron wine rack and fill it with wine bottles (they don’t have to be full; it can be just for show).
8. Brighten up the space with sunflowers. There are fields full of sunflowers in Tuscany. Give your rooms the feel of the Tuscan countryside by throwing some sunflowers into your décor.
Place two or more tables together to easily extend your dining tables.
Most glass dining room tables come with an extension piece that will extend the table enough to add a minimum of two extra seats. During the holidays or when throwing a party, you may find you need to extend your glass dining room table to accommodate more people and more food. You may also find that you need to be inventive when extending your glass dining room table. Be careful to protect the beauty of your glass table and prevent scratches by covering it before you attempt to extend it.
Instructions
1. Measure your glass dining room table from the table top to the floor with a tape measure. Choose tables that are equal or close to the height of your glass dining room table. If your glass table has square edges it will be easier to achieve a more uniform look.
2. Look in your home first for tables that can be used for extensions. Take note of the height of dining room table and search for tables that can be used to extend the length of your table. Try combining your kitchen and glass dining room table to lengthen the table. Try patio tables you may have outside to use as an extension for your glass .
3. Search home improvement stores or furniture stores for a suitable extension for your glass dining room table. Keep in mind the table has to be safe for your family and friends to easily move around. Don't choose pieces that are too large for your room or staging area.
4. Choose a decorative or festive tablecloth to uniformly combine the tables. Select a tablecloth that is long and wide enough to cover both tables so they appear to be one. Place a centerpiece in the middle of the table to give the combined tables balance. If the table you are using to extend the glass dining room table is taller or shorter than the glass table, a centerpiece will draw more attention.
5. Try table extenders to add length to your glass dining table. Remove the glass top from your dining table and use table extenders over the base of the glass dining table to create more length. Glass tables are more fragile than wood. Use caution when you use table extenders on or around glass.
Tags: glass dining, your glass, dining room table, room table,
Cozy seating areas can make spacious rooms more intimate.
The most important thing to remember in decorating a joint living room and dining room is to make it visually flow. This will create continuity and allow the eye to flow around the room and not have any breaking points. This type of room is great for throwing parties and gathering with your family, friends and neighbors to share the events in your lives. Often, these combined rooms tend to look like a warehouse or commercial space because of their size, but there are ways to avoid this.
Instructions
1. Paint the rooms the same color. Many people feel that they must only use neutral colors or they will tire of them quickly, but warm tones such as olive greens, toasty brown, burgundy or golden yellow can give the room warmth and intimacy.
2. Decide on the theme and incorporate it in both rooms. For instance, if you want the rooms to be semi-formal, do not decorate one room with cottage type décor and the other with semi-formal accessories.
3. Utilize ficus trees and other large potted plants to give the spacious rooms a homey, more intimate appeal. Sometimes joint living and dining rooms can have the appearance of a large cave and need personal touches.
4. Use heavy drapes or neutral toned window blinds with a cornice or valance. These rooms tend to have many windows and can seem cold if the windows are not covered.
5. Add a gas fireplace to the room to add warmth and create a cozy haven where your family can gather. Features such as a fireplace will give the room a comfortable ambiance and distract from the large spaces.
6. Use flooring in coordinating colors. It is acceptable to use different types of flooring, such as linoleum under the dining room table and carpeting in the living room; just make sure they coordinate and the break in the two patterns is subtle. If you have warm neutral tones in your linoleum or a wood floor for your dining area, then use a taupe, light beige or other warm color for your carpeting.
7. Incorporate large sized furniture in the rooms. This will fill up the space, make it more attractive, and seem less crowded than an overflow of smaller furnishings.
8. Hang large pictures, artwork and mirrors on the walls to coordinate with the large sized furniture and create balance in the rooms.
9. Create two or three seating areas if your rooms are quite large. You can place two beautiful upholstered chairs near each other with an end table between them to create a conversation area or set up an area where family members can play games together in a corner or a section of the room that is not in the walkway. Use rugs to differentiate the spaces even further.
10. Make sure you have adequate lighting for each individual space, whether it is additional table lamps or recessed lighting.
11. Install architectural features, such as columns or arched passageways to make the rooms appear as if they are separate and to give it less of a look of a commercial space.
12. Paint your high ceiling in a shade that is two or three tones lighter than your wall color, if the height makes the room appear cavernous. This will appear to lower it visually and make the rooms seem smaller.
13. Put up crown molding or ceiling beams if you have a high ceiling. This will make the space seem smaller and the room cozier.
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Accessorize with antique items to create a romantic bedroom.
Create a welcoming and inviting bedroom that not only inspires restful sleep, but puts a spark in your relationship with your significant other. Antique furnishings and decorative accents can transport you and your loved one back in time, creating a romantic setting for the two of you to revisit and rekindle your bond. Use items that you already have, or display some antique store treasures to create a room that exudes romance.
Instructions
1. Paint the walls in a pastel hue. Pastel pink, pale blue or sage green are soothing colors that work well as the backdrop for an antique romantic bedroom.
2. Hang white-washed wainscoting on the bottom portion of the walls and top it with a white-washed wooden chair rail.
3. Bring in an antique brass bed frame or a dark wood four poster bed that features intricate carvings on the posts, headboard and footboard. Use an antique bureau, hope chest and wardrobe as storage for clothing and linens.
4. Cover the bed with satin sheets and an antique lace bedspread. Alternatively, you can use a comforter a toile print or a delicate floral pattern. Arrange several different shaped throw pillows made of velvet, satin and brushed cotton fabrics on the bed.
5. Hang wooden plantation shutters and antique lace curtains on the windows of the room, offering privacy and a sense of romance to the space.
6. Set an antique chaise lounge chair in the corner of the room. Place an antique settee at the foot of the bed.
7. Display a mirror in an antique gold frame on the wall behind the bed.
8. Set out black-and-white or sepia prints of romantic locations, such as Paris and Venice, in antique picture frames.
9. Place vintage lamps with decorative lampshades that feature dangling tassels on bedside tables. Illuminate the lamps with low-wattage, or pink-hued light bulbs. Suspend an antique crystal chandelier from the ceiling in the center of the room. Hang decorative candle sconces on the walls and fill them with scented taper candles.
10. Fill crystal or sterling silver vases with bouquets of flowers and place them on and dressers. Place a mirrored tray on the dresser and set a sterling silver comb, brush and hand-held mirror on top of it.
Tags: antique lace, bedside tables, lamps with, , that features
Spiderman is one of the most famous Marvel superheroes, and children everywhere love this crime fighting hero. He has been the focus of comic books, movies, television shows and has tons of merchandise. You can easily decorate any child’s room with a Spiderman theme that will look and feel as if you are entering the world of this famous Webslinger.
Instructions
1. Paint the walls with red base. Red is Spiderman’s main color and the red base will immediately showcase that this could be the Webslinger's lair.
2. Add webbing to the wall with black paint. The easiest way to create a web is by starting with a focal point, branching out a bunch of lines and then adding curled lines to connect them.
3. Add painted spiders or other Spiderman features like Spiderman himself, villains or a cityscape.
4. Spread fake spiderweb around the bedroom. The best time to buy this is around Halloween, when you can easily find the webbing at retailers.
5. Create a small climbing spot on one of the walls. To do this you can set up a small ladder or, to make it less obvious, install small foot steps into the wall to climb on. This way, children can pretend that they have some of Spiderman’s powers and can easily scale a wall or building.
6. Hang up Spiderman posters from the hit movies. These are some of the best Spiderman posters and feature him climbing, swinging, or battling a villain. Frame the posters so that they look more stylish in the room.
7. Put a shelf up in the room to feature a collection of other Spiderman merchandise. There is a wide selection of action figures and collectibles designed with Spiderman available.
8. Hang some Spiderman figures off of the ceiling so that it appears as if Spiderman is in mid-flight. Hang it kind of loose so that if the wind blows or it is hit, then the figure can start swinging.
9. Purchase other Spiderman room decorations like rugs, bed sheets, lamps, light switch covers and anything else that will make the Spiderman room complete.
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Keep your bathroom clean with homemade antibacterial cleaners.
There are two major disadvantages to store-bought cleaners. First, they are made with unsafe ingredients. These are ingredients that can kill you should you be exposed to them for long periods of time. Second, store-bought cleaners are expensive. Thankfully, there is an answer to both of these problems. Homemade antibacterial bathroom cleaners can be made with ingredients that are not only natural, but inexpensive as well. Best of all, antibacterial bathroom cleaner is easy to make.
Instructions
1. Choose safe ingredients when making antibacterial bathroom cleaner such as vinegar and baking soda. Not only are these ingredients safe enough to eat, but they also keep an area sanitary.
2. Combine ingredients in plastic containers. Even though vinegar and baking soda are safe ingredients, you will want to use containers you don’t mind parting with. If you like, you can even use disposable containers to make a paste cleaner. For antibacterial bathroom spray, it’s best to use a reusable plastic bottle.
3. Prepare enough for one day’s worth of cleaning. To ensure that your antibacterial bathroom cleaner is as strong as possible, only make enough to complete one day of cleaning. If you make too much at one time, the leftovers could dry out or evaporate.
4. Make a paste cleaner using vinegar and baking soda. A paste is perfect for soap scum and other tough-to-clean areas. Pour baking soda into a plastic container and add enough vinegar to create a thick paste. This thick paste can be used to clean any surface in your bathroom.
5. For the most effective antibacterial spray cleaner, use straight vinegar. A spray bottle can be purchased in the gardening section of most department stores. Simply fill the bottle with vinegar and spray the desired area. Allow to sit and then wipe the area with a wet cloth.
Although it is often the smallest room in the house, the bathroom is also one of the most essential and heaviest-used places in your home. Bathrooms have wall space and like any other part of your house, the empty expanse of wall is a great place for the display of artwork such as paintings, drawings, photographs, needlepoint and framed documents. With a little bit of thought and planning, your can shine with the addition of framed pictures.
Expert Insight
There are two main ways to go with bathroom art. You can use the bathroom walls as a place for some of your least favorite wall hangings. The more interesting venture is to tailor the art that you select for the bathroom to fit your artistic tastes and provide some visual inspiration to anyone who may use the bathroom. A third alternative would be to provide pictures that might add humor and relief. One antique dealer decorated his bathroom walls with vintage photographs of Niagara Falls. The photographs were actually quite interesting and came from the 19th century.
Considerations
Most homeowners or renters will be content to decorate their bathroom walls in a beautiful way that adds color and design to the room. Before art is actually discussed, take care in considering a color scheme. Because bathrooms are often the smallest room in the house, chose a color scheme that makes the room seem a little bit bigger than it actually is. To do this, white or very light-colored ceilings and trim are in order. A deepr color can be used for the remaining walls. Sometimes, a white strip of paint around the top of each wall is just the touch you might want to accent your room. This can be done in conjunction with a border of stenciling that is placed just a little beneath each ceiling. The combination of stencil and white space might make your room stand out.
Features
Now you are ready to select the art. Remember that colorful art can't really compete with a colorful wall. So if you know that you will be putting a lot of pictures of floral displays on your wall, make sure the wall is prepared with a neutral color. In fact, the more interesting your artwork becomes, the less ideal a bright color for your wall becomes.
Types
Another option--maybe the most challenging but also the most rewarding--is to select pictures that contrast sharply with the hue of the wall space. The colors should not be exact opposites, but having different colors in juxtaposition to each other can create a stimulating visual effect. You shouldn't use the whole spectrum of the rainbow, but using two basic colors that are offsetting will be very pleasing to the eye.
Size
Be somewhat aware of size and scale. If you have a small bathroom, keep the visuals in sync with size of the room. This means small-framed pictures to go on your wall. Of course, the opposite is also true if you are fortunate enough to own a house with a spacious bathroom.
Tags: bathroom walls, your wall, also most, color scheme, more interesting, often smallest, often smallest room
Trying to make a small bedroom seem less crowded is no easy feat. The single most effective way to make a small bedroom seem larger and more functional is to go for a minimalistic look. When you get rid of unnecessary furniture, downsize on your accessories and learn to store clothes in the most compact fashion, you'll see your space transform from a cramped and uninviting room to the bedroom you've always wanted.
Declutter
Get rid of junk. Nothing makes a small bedroom seem smaller than clutter. If you're currently displaying your childhood Barbie collection or teddy bears, get rid of them. You can use that space for storage or sleeker accessories that are far more visually appealing. If you have a makeup vanity in your bedroom, consider eliminating it altogether and simply applying your makeup in the bathroom. Anything that is sucking up extra space or visually cluttering your bedroom needs to go.
Smart Furnishing
Free up floor space. When you're in a teeny-tiny bedroom, freeing up floor space can make a world of a difference. Swap out your existing wide dressers for one tall, skinny dresser. Trade your existing nightstands for floating shelves mounted right next to your bed; you still get the tabletop you need to place a lamp and alarm clock without the bulk of a nightstand. If you currently have a big, cushy chair in your bedroom, trade it in for a storage ottoman. You can use it as storage and seating.
Smart Storage
You don't need to get rid of your extensive shoe or sweater collection, but you need to be smart about how you store them. Instead of clogging up your closet and drawers with out-of-season clothing, place them in a vacuum seal storage bag under your bed. If you have an extensive shoe collection, consider installing shelving in your closet to free up some closet space. If you have too many items to implement these storage tips, consider getting a captain's bed that provides additional drawer space.
Tags: bedroom seem, small bedroom seem, your bedroom, extensive shoe, floor space, make small, make small bedroom
Make your bedroom a tropical paradise, even if you don't live at the beach. Imagine the warm ocean breezes and the tropical smell of coconut oil as you design your room. Bring in the visuals of the Caribbean Sea and the swaying palm branches as you lay in your bed. This theme is all about the items you find in the tropics, and most are readily found online or in home goods stores.
Instructions
1. Paint your walls the color of the Caribbean Sea. Pick sea-foam green or a teal blue for the walls or blend the two colors together as you paint one on the top half of the wall and the other on the bottom, separated by a palm tree border. Or apply a tropical mural to one wall with the ocean and palm trees.
2. Carry the theme through as you prepare the bed. Apply a bed skirt with tropical blue colors imprinted with palm trees. Add the solid cotton sheets before placing a matching comforter and shams on the bed. Mix additional pillows with the shams in the greens of the and blue background of the print.
3. Design tropical lighting for the room. Place seashells onto the bottom glass of lamps with glue. Design your own lampshades as you wrap grass cloth or printed tropical fabric around the shades -- be sure to keep the shade material away from hot bulbs. Add bamboo blades to a ceiling fan and a sea shell nightlight to the wall. Install a palm tree switch cover to the wall.
4. Buy furniture for the room of tropical woods. Purchase a bed with a woven bamboo headboard or a bamboo canopy bed. Pick a night table made out of rattan covered with a glass top or a rattan chest of drawers for the room. Add a bamboo chest for the foot of the bed and a couple of rattan chairs for seating.
5. Bring in lots of lush green plants. Place a large elephant palm in the corner of the room and spread ferns and pathos on the dresser or hanging from the ceiling of the room. Tuck a small parrot or other tropical bird figurines into the plant containers for a tropical twist.
6. Accessorize the room. Hang a rattan clock on the wall and a mirror surrounded by a sea-shell border. Place a couple a parrot bookends on the shelf to hold your books. Put photographs into tropical-themed photo frames, such as palm trees, sea shells, flip flops or parrots.
Ceiling lights help set the mood in your bathroom.
The right lighting may transform your bathroom into a relaxing oasis, while the wrong lighting may leave you struggling to perform basic grooming needs. To effectively light your bathroom for both general ambiance and focused tasks, combine layers of light from multiple fixtures and sources. Start at the top, with bathroom ceiling lightbulbs that brighten the room, mimic the look of natural sunlight, and provide overall ambient lighting.
Match Bulbs to Fixtures
Not all bulbs are designed to fit every fixture. Before buying bulbs for your bathroom ceiling, check existing fixtures to determine the maximum rated wattage, then choose bulbs within the wattage range. If you have hanging lights, pendants or ceiling fans in your bathroom, check for bulbs specifically designed for these fixtures. For dimmable fixtures, stick to bulbs specifically designed for dimming. If you've purchased dimmable bulbs and you hear an annoying buzzing from your fixtures, look for bulbs with a lower wattage to eliminate buzzing, suggests This Old House.
Choose Colors Wisely
This Old House recommends crisp white lighting in the bathroom because of its ability to accurately render skin tones. While halogen bulbs are best for this function, incandescent, compact fluorescent and other bulbs also can achieve the desired color range. To compare colors, check the packaging on your lightbulb for Kelvin ratings, which measure color. Low Kelvins generally result in yellow lighting, while high Kelvins in the 5,500 to 6,000 range are associated with blue light. For crisp, white light, stick to bulbs with a 3,500 to 4,100 Kelvin rating. In addition to Kelvins, check the Color Rendering Index to see how well the light renders color. The higher the CRI, the more likely the bulb accurately renders colors. Pegasus Lighting suggests going with a CRI of 85 or greater in the bathroom for best results.
Understand Watts and Lumens
Buyers accustomed to buying bulbs based on wattage may find themselves confused with new CFL and LED bulbs, which are rated in lumens rather than watts. A 450-lumen bulb is roughly equivalent to a 40-watt bulb, while 800 lumens is similar to 60 watts, according to Consumer Reports. A bulb rated at 1,100 lumens is similar to a 75-watt bulb, while 1,600 lumens is equivalent to 100 watts. When choosing floodlight bulbs, multiply watts by 10 to find the approximate number of lumens required.
Consider Lifespan
Choosing bulbs with a long lifespan can reduce maintenance and cut costs over time. Halogen bulbs last from 750 to 1,250 hours, while high-end halogen units can last 2,000 to 2,500 hours, according to The Family Handyman. Incandescent bulbs burn out after around 1,200 hours, while CFLs endure for up to 10,000 hours, according to Eartheasy. Light-emitting diodes offer the longest lifespan of any standard lightbulb, and can keep your bathroom bright for up to 50,000 hours.
Weigh Energy Consumption
The familiar incandescent lightbulb generates much more heat than light, making it inefficient. In fact, it takes about 3,000 kilowatt hours of electricity to light a room using incandescent bulbs for 50,000 hours, according to Eartheasy. While halogen bulbs are slightly more efficient, they generate even more heat than incandescent bulbs, making them a poor choice if you're concerned about efficiency and costs. CFLs offer improved efficiency, and require about 700 kWh per 50,000 hours of operation. For the ultimate in efficiency for your bathroom ceiling fixtures, consider LEDs, which consume just 300 to 500 kWh per 50,000 hours of operation.
Tags: your bathroom, bathroom ceiling, bulbs with, hours according, , bulb while, bulb while lumens
Tinkerbell, also known as Tink, has been in existence for over 100 years, so it's no surprise that your child wants to feature the fairy in her bedroom. A Tinkerbell decor provides a range of colors to work with and creates a magical environment for her to sleep and play in. With some planning and creativity with furniture and decorations, your child's bedroom can be the place she'll never want to leave.
Instructions
1. Paint the walls a pastel color, such as light pink or purple -- or even a light green to match Tinkerbell's dress. Most princess- and fairy-themed decor use pink and purple since they are considered feminine colors. If you don't want to paint, look for fairy-themed wallpaper. Or for an even less-intensive task, find a Tinkerbell border decal to place around the room. Border decals only require you to peel and stick them on the wall without extensive preparation. They easily peel off if you're concerned about the condition of the walls or if you're renting a home.
2. Replace the bedding with Tinkerbell-themed blankets, sheets and pillowcases from online stores or major chain retailers. Stick stickers on the headboard so she can keep fairies next to her head as she falls asleep every night. Don't worry about a specific pattern for stickers; allow your child to decide where to place each one for more personalization. In addition, add a canopy to the bed to let your daughter feel like she's in her own castle every night. It may also help with getting her to go to bed.
3. Add a rug to the center of the room, especially if she has hardwood flooring. It can be her little space to read or play with toys. If you can't find a specific fairy-based area rug, stick with pink and purple or light green like Tinkerbell's dress to unify the look.
4. Add white furniture such as a small table and chairs to the room since the color works well with light pastel colors. In addition, purchase a fairy lamp to keep on her dresser or end table.
Tags: pink purple, your child, every night, light green, Tinkerbell dress
Hold up color swatches to compare paint colors in natural and artificial light.
The bedroom is your personal sanctuary. No matter its theme, it will not be complete without the right color of paint. During a bedroom makeover, consider the theme and the elements in that theme, such as decorations, bedding and furniture. Once you have the right color, the fun begins with transforming your dull room into something extraordinary.
Instructions
1. Pick a color. Consider all of the design elements, such as the color of the furniture, style of the bedding and curtains as well as the decor elements that will accent the room. For example, a nautical-themed bedroom will most likely require blue or white. Select a few paint sample cards to bring home and hold them up against different walls with both the natural light and bedroom light to see how the shade will look. Use a light shade if the room is naturally dark. Consider using a different color for an accent wall to make a small room look larger.
2. Pick a sheen for the paint. The sheen, or finish, is the aftereffect that the paint will have once it dries. Flat or matte finishes work for elegant rooms or rooms that receive too much sunlight. Satin or eggshell finishes work well in high-traffic areas, such as a child's room. Semigloss or high-gloss finishes are good for molding, trim and other woodwork in the room.
3. Prepare the room for painting by moving all of the furniture toward the center of the room and away from the walls. Cover the furniture with old sheets or drop cloths. Remove any items that are hanging on the walls and set them aside. Cover the floor in front of each wall with a drop cloth or newspaper. Line the edges of molding, trim and baseboards with painters tape to prevent wall paint from coming into contact with them.
4. Fill any cracks or holes with a joint compound and putty knife. Press the compound into the wall's imperfections and smooth it away with the edge of a putty knife. Allow the compound to dry for at least four hours, and sand the area with a fine-grit sandpaper until smooth and even.
5. Wash the walls with a solution of warm water and trisodium phosphate, also known as TSP. You can buy TSP in most hardware or paint supply stores next to the paints and stains. Mix the product according to the manufacturer's instructions for painted surfaces. Use a sponge to wipe away any dirt, grease or fingerprints and let the walls air dry.
6. Prime the walls with a thin coat of latex-based primer and a . Allow the primer to dry for at least 12 hours.
7. Use a trim paintbrush to paint around the baseboards, trim and molding. Follow the woodwork of the room in a single direction to prevent heavy brush strokes from showing up.
8. Apply a thin coat of the wall color paint using a paint roller. Pour a small amount of paint into the reservoir of the paint tray and roll the roller's nap into it. Even the amount of paint on the roller by rolling it against the ridges on the flat portion of the paint tray. Make sure the roller is not oversaturated to prevent drips from forming on the wall.
9. Roll the paint roller against the wall's surface in a zigzag motion without lifting the roller up. Move from side to side in a vertical pattern. Continue the process until the entire wall is covered. Allow the wall to dry according to the drying time listed on the label.
Tags: paint roller, walls with, amount paint, color paint, elements that
Use your imagination in a new look for your bedroom.
If you are getting ready to embark on a painting project in your bedroom, you may not be sure what color patterns to choose. There are many ways to make a confident decision when it comes to color schemes. Take into consideration the mood you want to set in your bedroom, whether or not your color pattern is one you will be happy with for the long term, and how the color complements the rest of your home.
Instructions
1. Decide your purpose. The bedroom is often regarded as a space for relaxation, but some may deem it a place that doubles as an office or workspace. It is important to decide on the kind of room you want it to be. This will make a difference in the type of colors you choose. If you are designing your bedroom so that you have a spa inspired space, you are going to be more likely to choose colors that are calming and relaxing. This could include a sea foam green, ocean inspired shades of blue or a cream-based color that accents natural elements. If you plan to double your bedroom as a work space, however, you may have an entirely different color scheme in mind. A bedroom that doubles as a workspace can be painted in pastel yellows or neutral tones such as cafe or mocha.
2. Collect a sample of paint colors. This is the best way to determine what colors will look best in . If there is something in or in your home that inspires you, such as a collectible you received while traveling or your favorite throw pillow, take it with you to a paint store. The employees can help you match the color you like as closely as possible. There are also many preselected colors that you can go through to determine the colors you like. If you visit a store for some help, you might end up being drawn to color patterns you had never considered combining in your bedroom. Stores such Lowe's, Home Depot, Target and Walmart all include a section that is dedicated to paint. Ask if you can take a few samples home to see how they will work together in the actual room. If you don't have access to viewing paint samples in the store, you can also visit sites online that will give you the same assistance.
3. Be inspired. If you do not feel that you can decide the right colors on your own, use the resources around you for inspiration. Check out episodes of home building and decor shows such as those seen on HGTV. Pick up copies of home decor magazines to see the latest design trends or pay attention to color schemes that you see on your favorite shows. If you find a picture of a bedroom that you would love to duplicate, add your own flare to it. For example, if a bedroom layout in "Better Homes and Gardens" depicts a beautiful lavender painted room, add some deep shades of purple and soft browns in your own color scheme to give it a warm contrast.
Tags: your bedroom, bedroom that, color patterns, color scheme, color schemes
Bedrooms reflect the occupant and offer a sanctuary from the outside world. Decorate a bedroom fit that encourages rest and relaxation. Sit back and think about what the occupant finds relaxing; for example, a tropical paradise. Visit home décor stores and home areas in department stores to find the materials to make a bedroom into a tropical paradise. Seek out ideas. Combining items from different places adds variety. Use calming colors to promote peace in the room. Clashing colors make a room look busy.
Instructions
1. Start with the walls and floors. Tape with painter's tape around light switches and trim to prevent painting over those areas. Paint the walls and ceiling light green with up and down strokes using a paint roller. Paint the corners with a paintbrush. Allow to dry completely. Paint with the windows open. Paint fumes can be harmful to breath.
2. Lay down carpet or hire someone to carpet the room in dark brown
3. Remove painter's tape. Paint any trim white with a paintbrush.
4. Hang dark curtains that match the carpet color. Dark curtains block light. SoundSleeping.org states that light affects the internal clock and sleep schedule. Lights encourage the body to wake up.
5. Choose a bedspread. Find one printed with cheetah spots or tropical birds.
6. Hang framed pictures of . Find these pictures at craft stores, poster stores or department stores.
7. Hang a shelf on the wall. Attach a bracket to the back of the shelf with nails.
8. Set a stuffed parrot on the shelf. Add pictures or other personal items to the shelf.
9. Set up the furniture however you like.
10. Tape a grass skirt around tables. Find grass skirts at party supply stores.
Tags: department stores, , tropical birds, tropical paradise, with paintbrush
Paint your tween's room something you'll both love.
Girls start to develop their own sense of style at a young age. When a girl hits the "tween" age ("between" a kid and a teenager, about 10 to 13 years old), she'll have definite opinions on music, movies, colors and fashion. Decorating a tween's room can be difficult if you're having a hard time deciding what colors and decor you both will like.
Instructions
1. Find out what's popular. According to A Girl's World, interest in fashion--whether dreaming of being a designer one day or just buying a new pair of jeans--is high tweens. Bright, summery colors are huge with tween girls. With this in mind, think of how you can remake your tween's room into a "Vogue" fashion room.
Paint the walls a bright pink or red, then hang several fashion pictures. Stores such as Bed, Bath and Beyond, Michael's, and Target sell "Vogue" and "Haute Couture" wall hangings.
2. Know what kind of music your tween is into. According to A Girl's World and the Billboard Hot 100, Lady Gaga, B.o.B., Eminem, Jay-Z, Justin Bieber, Drake and the Black Eyed Peas are all popular with young girls. Also--and many parents will be thrilled to hear this--with the help of Guitar Hero, many tweens are getting into the Beatles. Keeping your tween's music preference in mind, think of ways to make a rock star bedroom.
Paint the walls in a bright green or bright purple and hang black and white music posters around the room. You can also make your own "platinum" or "gold" records by spray painting old vinyls. Make a little plaque to say who the record belongs to, then frame the record and the plaque together.
3. Surf the web for ideas. For different, innovative and fun ideas, check out websites for home improvement shows. Not only will these websites have cool ideas, but they will also show you--in most cases step-by-step--achieve the end product.
4. Talk to your tween about what it is that *she* likes. She may have some interesting ideas that you didn't think of (like painting each wall a different color), or she might just want something simple (the walls painted her favorite color). Either way, the best ideas for paint your tween's room may just come straight from her.
Tags: your tween, , your tween room, According Girl, According Girl World, Girl World, mind think
Chandeliers add light and style to a dining table.
The lighting situation in a dining room sets the mood and atmosphere for the meal. When considering your lighting options, choose something that will accentuate the style element you desire. For instance, if you want the setting to be intimate and casual, small lighting fixtures that don't give off much light may be your best option. However, if you are looking to be bold and dramatic, elegant chandeliers or wall lights can help you to achieve your goal. With so many lighting options available, finding what suits your needs is enjoyable and possible.
Instructions
1. Install a chandelier above the table. Chandeliers typically create drama in the room and are a major focal point. However, this lighting fixture shouldn't interfere with interaction between your guests; therefore, it should hang no lower than 30 inches above the surface of the table. If the chandelier is lower, it may impede your guest's vision. A variety of style options are available for chandeliers, including the traditional crystals and glass variety and the more modern hanging candle chandelier.
2. Install accent lights into the walls around the table. Instead of hanging the lights directly above your table, place them to the side on a wall nearby. Doing so will create a dramatic effect and will likely give your guests something to admire while eating.
3. Hang a few pendant lights above your table. Unlike chandeliers that hang over the center of the table, numerous pendant lights can be arranged to run over the length of your table. The size of both the table and the lamps plays a part in how many lights you should install. Pendant lights create a modern feel to your room and typically give off large amounts of illumination, because there are so many lights. This lighting option typically works well for long, rectangular tables.
4. Place candles or small lamps on your table for an intimate feel. Candles give off small amounts of light just right for a casual and intimate atmosphere, as do small lamps. Use flameless candles if you are concerned about the safety aspects of having an open flame on your table. The amount of candles or lights you place on the table depends on how big the table is. If you have a long table, place a candle or light about a foot away from each other. If you have a small, round table, place two in the center.
Tags: your table, table place, above your, above your table, lighting options, many lights, options available
A ceiling lamp is only one basic element in lighting.
When you consider lighting ideas for the dining room, compare the space to an empty plate. You can put a piece of chicken on a plate and have something to eat. Add a rich sauce and stuffing, and you have something to savor and enjoy. In dining room lighting, you can install a ceiling lamp and have light. Bring additional lighting elements to the room, and you have ambience and depth. You should have three lighting sources in a room, suggests the Great Home Decorating website. Combine these sources to create a richer dining room atmosphere.
Instructions
1. Place a ceiling lamp, lighted ceiling fan or chandelier above your dining room table. Install this basic element so that it hangs 30 inches dining table from a ceiling less than 9 feet. Hang the light 3 inches higher from a ceiling 9 feet or higher.
2. Install track lights for accent lighting. Use a dimmer switch with track lights to create versatility and to give you control over the lighting mood and level of brightness.
3. Hang lighted wall sconces for additional accent lighting. Install lighted sconces to the sides of a wall painting, window or doorway.
Table, mirror, side lighting and vintage accents make up a modern bedroom vanity.
The bedroom vanity is still prevalent in the eco-friendly 21st century. As people reduce their living space and consumption, there is still a need to prepare for the day ahead, and that way is harkening back to centuries before when the bedroom vanity was often a mark of decadence. Today, a vanity can be used to conserve as well as to indulge.
Inspiration
Early to mid-century Hollywood glamour is arguably the strongest inspiration for the modern bedroom vanity, but it is also seen as Victorian. In both of these cases, the bedroom vanity was a mini dressing room, where a woman -- usually of status -- had a small area of her room to anchor her beauty regimen. Granted, the bedroom was often her own during these times, but even in the typical domestic 1950s household (shared with her husband), there was often a bedroom vanity. It was a small area in the bedroom at which the lady of the house could retreat with her husband, yet still get ready for the day or evening ahead.
Modern Use
In the 21st century, the bedroom vanity has a new function: space. As people reduce their living area for economic or environmental reasons, bathrooms are smaller and often shared, and there is little room for a woman (or man) to get ready for the day ahead. A bedroom vanity can provide that area and sanctuary, just as it did in Victorian and Old Hollywood times. A bedroom vanity takes little room, and you can create one in vintage- or modern-style or anything in between.
Elements
A typical bedroom vanity consists of a table, comfortable seating, drawers/storage and lighting. Find an area of your bedroom where the natural light at the time of day you normally get ready is best and works within the other elements of your bedroom. A bedroom vanity doesn't have to take up a lot of space -- no more than the modern television. Accessories that will be visible on your bedroom vanity are also important; if you have a vintage flair, consider old perfume bottles.
Design
Shop for a vintage vanity, desk, or use a table and decorate it with skirting fabric according to your tastes and skills. Then, find a mirror to hang above it (it doesn't have to be connected); you might even want to use the mirror as the decorative focal point of your bedroom. The main thing to consider in your bedroom vanity design is cohesion with the rest of your bedroom. You may want the bedroom vanity, in general, and the mirror, in particular, to be a focal point or have it blend in with the rest of the master bedroom. Choose fabrics and paint colors accordingly.
Tags: bedroom vanity, your bedroom, 21st century, bedroom vanity also, doesn have, focal point
Decorating an area with feng shui in mind means that you want to create a calming area filled with colors and accents that will bring desired qualities into your life. The bathroom has always been considered a problem in feng shui, as it is filled with drains that are said to sap energy from a room or a home. Small bathrooms, in particular, tend to be cluttered, which is another problem with feng shui. Learn bring elements into your bathroom and arrange the things that are already there so that your bathroom is as tranquil as the rest of your home.
Instructions
1. Keep your toilet lid, your sink drains and your bathtub or shower drains closed when they are not in use. Energy from your home is thought to be continually lost through the drains, so keeping them closed is thought to help retain your energy. Keep your bathroom door closed as well so that the energy of the room is kept inside it.
2. Fix leaking pipes or faucets. A dripping faucet or pipe will cause you to be unsettled as you will feel guilty that you are wasting water and money. Having it fixed will make you feel better when you are in the room, therefore make the energy better.
3. Keep your bathroom clean and simple. You cleanse yourself in the bathroom, therefore your old chi can be left in there. To avoid having it trapped in the bathroom, avoid heavy rugs or carpets, lots of bathrobes or towels or wet towels. Keep those items inside cabinets or in a linen closet outside of the bathroom.
4. Let natural light into the bathroom if you have a window. The natural light will help the room to look bigger as well as bring natural chi into the space.
5. Bring plants into the bathroom. Plants add more natural elements to the bathroom, which helps cleanse it of bad energy and old chi.
6. Keep clutter to a minimum. Use baskets and drawers to keep your items organized and hidden away rather than scattered around the bathroom or on your countertop.
Tags: feng shui, your bathroom, energy Keep, filled with, into bathroom, into your
Ample lighting is essential for safety and convenience in the bathroom. Some tips follow.
Instructions
1. Place wall fixtures on each side of a small- to medium-size mirror (about 36 inches or narrower) over the sink to illuminate your face as needed for shaving or applying makeup. Ideally, these fixtures should be 28 or more inches apart and about 60 inches off the floor.
2. Hang a row of lights with halogen bulbs above a large, wide mirror.
3. Provide lateral lighting on a large mirror by drilling through the mirror to install light fixtures.
4. Consider theatrical lights, which feature exposed incandescent bulbs, around the perimeter of the mirror if your layout permits it.
5. Use color-corrected fluorescent bulbs (so they won't tinge objects with blue) if heat buildup from incandescent bulbs poses a problem.
6. Install recessed downlights, designed for use in wet areas, in the shower and above the tub.
7. Plan a central that will give adequate light for general tasks, including dressing and cleaning, in the bathroom.
8. Put a separate ceiling fixture, either recessed or surface-mounted, in a separate toilet compartment.
9. Provide a night-light for safety. A conventional night-light or a dimmer switch on other lighting will be fine, but you could also go with low-voltage linear lighting mounted in the toe-kick space beneath the vanity or base cabinets.
10. Dress the bathroom's window or windows so that natural light beams in while preserving privacy. Consider a skylight for natural lighting in a bathroom that lacks a window.
Tags: about inches, ceiling fixture, incandescent bulbs
A dining table spotted with food stains and dirt smudges creates a less appetizing atmosphere than a clean, gleaming table. If you want the talk of the town to be your food and not your table, you need to spend a little time washing the surface you want your guests to eat on. Cleaning glass and requires the same basic techniques, and is fast enough that it can be done in the last few minutes before your friends arrive.
Instructions
1. Wipe the table with a clean, soft cloth to remove any surface dirt and dust.
2. Combine 1/4-cup mild soap with 4 cups of warm water in a bucket. Mix the soapy water thoroughly. Dip a soft cloth in the solution, then wring it out to remove most of the water.
3. Apply a small amount of the soapy water to an out-of-the-way spot on wood tables to ensure that it won't damage the finish. Stop cleaning the table and find a commercial cleaning alternative if the soapy water damages the finish.
4. Clean the top of the table first, wiping in the same direction as the grain if cleaning a wood table, or in gentle circles if cleaning a glass table. Wipe the sides and bottom of the table next, followed by the table legs.
5. Dampen a second soft cloth in clean, warm water. Wipe the dining table down to remove any excess suds and dirt. Follow the same top-to-bottom cleaning pattern used in the initial cleaning.
6. Dry the table using a third soft, clean cloth. Again, start on the top surface of the table and work your way down to the legs last. Move in the direction of the grain on wooden tables.
7. Spot-clean any leftover blemishes as necessary.
The tile reflects the home's country charm in this bathroom.
Tile and glass bring light, color and texture into a bathroom space. With so many varieties of tile, mirrors and glass bricks on the market, there's bound to be a style that suits every homeowner's design aesthetic and personality. Tile and glass also provide the benefit of being appropriate surfaces for a room that is traditionally the wettest area in the home.
Gradient Colors
An interesting way to use tiles in the bathroom is to run tiling on the floor and continue up the walls. For a visually interesting color scheme, "This Old House" suggests using different tones of the same color. For example, create a sunny bath that starts with a deep yellow tile on the floor and lower portion of the wall. For the middle, use a tile color that is one to two shades lighter than the darker yellow. Finally, fade to a light, pale yellow on the top portion of the wall. Offset the tiles so the colors gradually fade into one another rather than creating hard lines between them. Continue the tiles all the way up the walls to create a seamless transition between colors and create a room full of texture.
Monochromatic Color Scheme
Another interesting idea is to create a bathroom with depth and texture, using only a single color. "Good Housekeeping" magazine suggests using a cream colored tile to create a monochromatic bathroom design. Mixing together cream tiles with traditional bathroom elements like the shower curtain, tub, vanity and mirror frame creates an elegant look that is full of light and texture, without overwhelming the eye. This creamy bath encourages relaxation and also provides the perfect setting for a large soaking bath tub. Large ceramic tiles or subway tiles paired with a claw foot tub, pedestal sinks and a vintage mirror can make the bathroom feel as if it belongs to another era while still being completely functional.
Earth Tone Bath
Water is representative of nature and the bathroom is the perfect place to start to bring the outdoors inside, suggests "This Old House." To create a bathroom that makes you feel as if you have stepped out into a tropical rainforest, use earth tone tiles. Take your cues from nature by choosing tiles in tones of brown, blue and green. Combine the three tile colors together by choosing tiles in a similar saturation. For example, all deep tones or all light tones. Using small glass tiles provides an opportunity to mix the colors together in a medium that creates an iridescent finish which ties the colors together. Finish the colors together with a wooden vanity and mirror frame, glass shower doors and organic-inspired linens.
Bringing in Mirrors
In addition to tile, bringing glass is perhaps the second most important element in the bathroom. Once the tile scheme is decided upon, it is important to choose a mirror, or group of mirrors for the space. Mirrors are important for both practicality and function. Mirrors reflect light, making the space seem larger, lighter and brighter. Mirrors for the bathroom should fit with the bathroom's design. A stock mirror without a frame is not the most practical mirror for all bathrooms. A vintage design may benefit from a mirror with a heavier, more ornate frame, like those commonly found in an art museum. A nature-inspired bathroom will benefit from a mirror frames in natural wood. A monochromatic bathroom should have a mirror that reflects the room's color scheme. Round mirrors are also an interesting choice for the bathroom. The lack of sharp corners helps promote relaxation, according to the Home Renovation Guide.
Hanging Mirrors
When hanging mirrors in the space, consider using them unexpectedly and effectively. Over a vanity, choose a mirror about equal to the vanity is size, to create a balanced sense of scale in the room, suggests Repair Home. With a vanity containing two sinks, consider hanging a mirror over each sink, rather than one long continuous mirror. Also, consider hanging a mirror in a more unexpected place. Hanging a mirror in a place that reflects the room's focal point helps increase the visual interest in the room. Reflecting the view from a window helps bring the outdoors in and makes the space feel larger. Adding light fixtures or candle sconces on either side of the mirror provides more ambient light in the room.
Decorate your sitting area to complement your master bedroom decor.
Your master bedroom should make you feel completely at ease and serve as your private oasis or retreat. Decorating a master bedroom with a sitting area is no more difficult than decorating without the sitting area. Having a sitting area does give you more options, which can work to create a more relaxing bedroom. Include items in your bedroom and sitting area that you enjoy, whether they're your favorite colors, fabric choices or accessories.
Instructions
1. Paint the walls in the bedroom and sitting area in the same soothing shade, such as cream or light beige, or use different colors and patterns to separate the two spaces. For example, the bedroom area can have cream-colored walls, while the sitting area features cream and blue striped wallpaper. The walls in both areas of the master bedroom should complement each other.
2. Arrange the bedroom furniture first, including the bed, nightstands and dresser. Add furniture to the sitting area that complements the bedroom's style, in a natural arrangement. For example, antique, overstuffed chairs would look awkward next to a low-slung, contemporary platform bed. Visually separate the sitting area from the bedroom by placing chairs, a love seat or chaise lounge with its back to the bedroom or with a folding room divider.
3. Use complementary bedding, curtains and rugs to unite the two spaces. For example, drape a blue throw over a white chair in the sitting area if your window treatments are blue and your bedding is blue and white. Alternatively, place matching rugs in the bedroom and sitting area.
4. Hang wall decor in the bedroom and sitting area that complement each other and work with the style of the rooms. Wall sconces, floating shelves, artwork or photographs are some options for the walls. For example, hang a series of garden photos in the sitting area if you have botanical images hanging above your bed.
5. Accessorize both rooms with complementary items, such as matching lamps. Candles, floral arrangements, houseplants or small collections can grace both rooms. Add small pillows to your chairs, sofa or chaise that match the decorative pillows on your bed for a cohesive look.
Tags: sitting area, bedroom sitting, , area that, master bedroom, , area have
Vinyl floor tile can appear as luxurious as ceramic tile flooring.
Vinyl floor tiles work well in bathrooms. They are easy to install and durable. If a 12-inch vinyl tile breaks, it can quickly be replaced without having to rip up the entire floor. They are not as slippery as ceramic tiles, making them a far safer alternative in the bathroom. A vinyl tile floor can be installed in less than a day, eliminating an extensive non-use time frame a ceramic floor requires.
Instructions
1. Measure the width and length of the room, using a tape measure. Multiply the length and width and record this number for when you pick the tiles. Divide the total number by the amount of tiles each box contains to figure how many boxes you need. Always round up to the next full box.
2. Sweep away any dust or debris to create a clean, smooth surface, using a broom. If you wash the surface, the floorboard must be dry before you install the tiles.
3. Mark the starting point. The first tile needs to be installed at a perfect 90-degree angle. If you have a traditional vanity, line the first tile up with the edge of the vanity for your starting point. If you prefer, mark the direct center of the room, using a chalk line. Line from each opposite corner to create an X in the middle.
4. Peel back the film on the tile. Line the corners of the floor tile with the edge of the X and begin. Remove the film and firmly press the tile into place. Continue to peel and install the tiles by lining up the edge of the new tile with the edge of the laid tile. Work your way toward the outer walls.
5. Cut the a utility knife, and finish installing around the outer perimeter of the bathroom. If the tiles do not fit perfectly along the edge of the room, you may have to cut them to size. Measure the remaining area along the wall, and create a line marking on the film side of the tile.
6. Cut the template from old film for the toilet and fit it in place. Use film from the older tiles and measure around the base of the toilet. The toilet area is a little tricky, so make a template to cut out the tiles to create a close lay of tiles. This may take one to two tries, but once you get the template, trace it on the back of a tile, cut it out, and place the tile.
7. Apply a thin line of caulking around the base of the toilet, sink, and bathtub to create a waterproof seal. Wipe away excess caulk with a wet finger.
Tags: tile with, tile with edge, with edge, , around base toilet, base toilet
Towel warmers come in finishes to match your bathroom fixtures.
A towel warmer was a luxury item at one time, but many homeowners are including these appliances in bathroom remodeling projects today. With their increase in popularity, bathroom towel warmers are available in a number of sizes, power sources and styles. The fixture may be small enough to keep one towel cozy and warm for the next user, or the towel heater may be large enough to accommodate enough towels for the entire family.
Instructions
1. Determine the power source of your towel warmer. Electric models plug in to available ground fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI, outlets in the bathroom. It's also possible to find models that hardwire into the house's electrical system. Hydronic models connect into the house's heat source and operate as a part of the furnace system. Hydronic models are efficient to operate, but the installation costs may be prohibitive for some homeowners.
2. Decide if you want your towel warmer to have an on/off switch or if you want it always to be on. If your model turns off, you have to wait for it to warm the towels. Constant-on models take more energy but warm towels are always waiting for you. A hard-wired towel heater with a switch on the wall costs more to install as well.
3. Locate the best spot for your towel heater. Depending on the model, you can mount the unit on the wall or attach it to the floor. Some models are free-standing. There are even space-saving models that attach to the hinge pins of the bathroom door.
4. Choose a model that matches or complements your bathroom fixtures. Warmers are available in various metal finishes, wood and glass.
5. Select models that have the bars spaced closely together. This makes the unit more efficient at heating the towels and not the air around the towels.
6. Find a model that is sturdy. If it's a free-standing model, look for legs spaced far enough apart to prevent the warmer from easily tipping over. The towel bars should be solid enough to bear the weight of damp towels.
Tags: models that, towel heater, towel warmer, your towel, your towel warmer
Bathroom doors need to close properly for privacy.
Movies and TV comedies sometimes get mileage from a character being burst in on while in the bathroom or being unable to open a stuck bathroom door. In real life, though, a malfunctioning isn't so funny. Bathroom doors can fail to latch for a variety of reasons. Learn to determine what is wrong and repair it.
Check Hinges and Knob
A bathroom or other interior door that fails to latch may not be closing completely or closing unevenly. Check hinges to make certain they are tightly screwed, both to the door and to the jamb. Frequent opening and closing of a door can loosen screws. Tighten with a screwdriver and try closing the door again. Frequent opening and closing can also loosen the doorknob, meaning the latch may only partially work. Tighten knobs on both sides of the door.
Handling a Sticky Door
Latching becomes impossible when a door cannot be fully closed. If hinges are tight, the most likely culprit for a tight door is moisture, especially for a bathroom door. Check for areas of paint wear that may allow bathroom moisture or seasonal humidity to swell the wood of the door. If the door closes fine in winter, suspect the weather. Having the furnace on dries household air. The open windows of fall, spring and summer can let a lot of extra moisture into the house. Poor bathroom ventilation produces similar stickiness but on a year-round basis. Check for sticking edges, sand or plane them down and try closing the door again. Repaint unsealed surfaces.
Fixing a Loose Door
Often a door will not latch because the latch and its strike-plate no longer meet. The door will not latch because the lock-parts won't catch. This is often a function of age and dryness in the air, resulting in wood shrinkage. Remove the strike plate and build up the jamb underneath it. Screw small narrow pieces of wood, known as shims, under the upper and lower parts of the strike-plate, leaving the hole for the latch open. By moving the strike plate closer to the rest of the lock, you make it possible for the lock to catch.
Moving the House
Especially in an old house, door locks and their strike plates move out of line as the house settles. The easiest way to compensate for this settling is to modify the strike plate and jamb. Enlarge or realign the strike plate by chiseling a new hole in the door jamb. Enlarge the strike plate hole with a metal file. Combining these strategies with shimming will bring lock and plate back into alignment.
Tags: strike plate, bathroom door, closing door, Bathroom doors, closing door again
Teenage years are a time of change, and often a teen girl wants to redecorate her room to match her more mature taste. Redecorating a bedroom does not have to be an expensive endeavor. All it takes is a little creativity and dedication. Keep in mind that, like all people, a teenage girl's taste can change, so make the decor easy to change.
Color Inspiration
Using shades of your teen girl's favorite color to decorate her room is a cool and smart decor for girls with constantly changing tastes. This decoration theme provides a durable base for her to change out accessories, such as wall hangings and window treatments, as teenage trends come in and go out. It is also an inexpensive way to decorate a bedroom because, as long as items are shades of the chosen color, they will fit in the room. Though you can paint all walls a single shade for this decor idea, you can also create depth and interest by painting the walls various shades.
Accesorize
Wall color, flooring and furniture are major room aspects that people focus on when creating a bedroom theme. However, accessories can make or break a room design for it is the little touches that reinforce a theme. They are also easy to change and are either expensive or inexpensive depending on the accessories you choose. Switching out old picture frames and displaying your pictures in ones that match your room's color or style is an inexpensive and simple way to add character to your space. Other accessories, such as a rug or window treatments, are more expensive but make a major impact on the room's look.
Modern Light Fixtures
Chandeliers, lamp shades and sconces are lighting options that bring a personal touch to a room. You can buy inexpensively to fit an existing lamp. A new lampshade can make an outdated lamp appear new and fit with your room's decor. Chandeliers and wall sconces may require additional electrical wiring, which increases their cost. If you already have a ceiling light, it isn't difficult to accommodate a chandelier, and, if your home has wall sconces, you can easily purchase updated ones. A stylish wall sconce costs about $100 in August 2010, while chandeliers made for bedrooms range from around $150 to over $500 depending on their details and accessories. Though a chandelier is costly, you can select a chandelier with shades on each light that you can change if your teen decides to alter the room at a later date.