Peek a boo!

<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZUkbA3H3BmnO3l6FkOXk9xh6JNK_15C9-kFmLu8ltNO72sDcYN5HvnJUozXbxCKC5OPGtB3YI1Q2TmbfX9CeFbWYWGjpy0SZq47b1u_IkDNkOc7Ilbtw_mR9RqUVgJ7f1GtRGy21lqbk/s640/blogger-image--1290230230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZUkbA3H3BmnO3l6FkOXk9xh6JNK_15C9-kFmLu8ltNO72sDcYN5HvnJUozXbxCKC5OPGtB3YI1Q2TmbfX9CeFbWYWGjpy0SZq47b1u_IkDNkOc7Ilbtw_mR9RqUVgJ7f1GtRGy21lqbk/s640/blogger-image--1290230230.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical: A Honey Bear, A Partially Finished Painting Project, and A Basket of Laundry</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div>Oh my! Where did the time go? I did not mean to leave y'all hanging high and dry for so long.  I've entered a stage with my little one (18-24 months) that I didn't even remember was a hard age until many kind strangers (other moms) recognized my struggle and gave me reassuring nods or pep talks.<br /><div><br /></div><div>As I try to maneuver my grocery cart through the store with a two-foot tall "helper" determined to push it with me one way or another, someone will catch my eye, laugh, and then, more seriously say, "that's a tough age, isn't it?"<br /><div><br /></div><div>I completely forgot. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's also an incredibly cute age. Like crazy cute. They're little mini-people, walking short with teddy bear like bodies, clapping for themselves and giving hugs and kisses for cheers. </div><div><br /></div><div>So I really can't take my eyes off of my little guy for one second because he'll either do the most adorable thing in the entire world or the most dangerous thing. </div><div><br /></div><div>And then there are the moments when I'm vacuuming bits of egg shell out of the washing machine or explaining to an upholstery cleaner over the phone that the substance in the button-tufting of my sofa is most likely chewed up fruit snacks. </div><div><br /></div><div>And in those moments, I am thinking, I'd rather be blogging. </div><div><br /></div><div>So bear with me!<br /><br /><br /></div></div><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="269" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//giphy.com/embed/UIRlVJe5ksC6Q?html5=true" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="480"></iframe>

Peek a boo!

Typical: A Honey Bear, A Partially Finished Painting Project, and A Basket of Laundry Oh my! Where did the time go? I did not mean to leave ...

Read more »

Using mirrors to solve decorating problems

Sometimes I have to remind myself of the power of mirrors to solve common decorating problems.   Here are seven  fantastic uses of mirrors that might not be on your radar. <br /><br /><h4><b>1. To reflect light</b></h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ_08vXZVfiSaRceptxXSCRCbgaKTEGQ_kwWwvi1QjrBn8dJ6rcTxMyp-aQkjBy85CyNYU9eUz1iwmJno4jxZK_6TDttDbKjqj22GGrmg8nQmmtuAmVOll8vRVgUU1HlFi0b8uXnvpTq4B/s1600/double+mirrors+living+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="mirrors, living room, reflecting light" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ_08vXZVfiSaRceptxXSCRCbgaKTEGQ_kwWwvi1QjrBn8dJ6rcTxMyp-aQkjBy85CyNYU9eUz1iwmJno4jxZK_6TDttDbKjqj22GGrmg8nQmmtuAmVOll8vRVgUU1HlFi0b8uXnvpTq4B/s1600/double+mirrors+living+room.jpg" title="Using mirrors to solve decorating problems" width="400" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggs-SOxCyjKnre_KHUITBjj0y-LOAtH8e2DDhT7T4GVVuG7lpYPX0NBTofZoRZvmv_gl5f7mspBrkRbmZd8Zzh7neGdFv46B51e4e445vDHB5URcMWhNVq3fYIw2Y42_Jc3fe2AW1K3Ff4/s1600/mirror+beside+windows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><br /><br />This is one great space for a number of reasons, but the mirrors make it in my opinion.  Not only do they break up a dark wall and provide height to match the window, they reflect light in what might otherwise be a blah room.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h4><b>2. To create a window in a windowless room </b></h4><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ebqko0zLfe6zh9WSm1ZS3X0R26e6M0b7g-jucXDrCentb92X8MTSidpvOjwu0UXXZ2WMwrG3NJyTHSgu-I9AJBHjXR7GMhJ6AS2serE2VjRgj0tl8Zpw9oaj6qDY1QUuDGvwlWHgBrfZ/s1600/fake+window+mirrors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="mirrors, windowless room, living room mirror" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ebqko0zLfe6zh9WSm1ZS3X0R26e6M0b7g-jucXDrCentb92X8MTSidpvOjwu0UXXZ2WMwrG3NJyTHSgu-I9AJBHjXR7GMhJ6AS2serE2VjRgj0tl8Zpw9oaj6qDY1QUuDGvwlWHgBrfZ/s1600/fake+window+mirrors.jpg" title="Using mirrors to solve decorating problems" width="236" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRrKtTtyYv-CUZGpXkCH6shK92Uxryy3YImxGA3bMFkCJuLX7-t9vZz0E7FpGMlJ2mxcEdGSz9Px4q-QFV9B5c6pRE_aSfNdG2EJn3gempOIQR26SnRZPPyD_gxu_ebC5HQS4PiGlhYD6-/s1600/triple+mirror+dining+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><img alt="dining room mirrors, windowless dining room, 3 large mirrors" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRrKtTtyYv-CUZGpXkCH6shK92Uxryy3YImxGA3bMFkCJuLX7-t9vZz0E7FpGMlJ2mxcEdGSz9Px4q-QFV9B5c6pRE_aSfNdG2EJn3gempOIQR26SnRZPPyD_gxu_ebC5HQS4PiGlhYD6-/s1600/triple+mirror+dining+room.jpg" title="Using mirrors to solve decorating problems" width="400" /></a></div><br />There are often sections of a space that are dark and windowless.  Mirrors can give the illusion of a window and light without having to make architectural changes.  In both rooms above the mirrors also add dramatic focal points.<br /><br /><br /><h4><b>3. Add drama to an open space</b></h4><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEippaKxDs32Odu0gYD7fyp1o01Dy7-wgspi-5ItTAsTkUdzZF9m79X2tF-u1eylX16HNllVt53tDxXlLNyb0MYi6433Zmk3brhpXaZa5OcdjPI_58_S8y6X9wRrwvnpkCI_XEq7miFtyvOq/s1600/foyer+mirror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="foyer mirror, large foyer mirror, lucite table and mirror" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEippaKxDs32Odu0gYD7fyp1o01Dy7-wgspi-5ItTAsTkUdzZF9m79X2tF-u1eylX16HNllVt53tDxXlLNyb0MYi6433Zmk3brhpXaZa5OcdjPI_58_S8y6X9wRrwvnpkCI_XEq7miFtyvOq/s1600/foyer+mirror.jpg" title="Using mirrors to solve decorating problems" width="293" /></a></div><br />This high ceilinged space demands a large scale treatment.  This mirror fills the bill when it comes to matching the scale of the space.  The choice of a lucite table ensures that the lines of the mirror remain dominant.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h4><br /><b>4. To replace art</b></h4><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYvxA8l0dW8rP4htszoOgUUgXRPlS3WfGR9WBbRwlrcTdReThdyZOJVyoCPxj7hUsy4vG-hxStKP96fLoJBgpJCOCmnGkk5KY_PzGJDpfx7E8rG1uOSLifM-8ga_Vv6TJGvEK6bYmSkaFp/s1600/mirror+over+bed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="mirror over bed, mirror focal point" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYvxA8l0dW8rP4htszoOgUUgXRPlS3WfGR9WBbRwlrcTdReThdyZOJVyoCPxj7hUsy4vG-hxStKP96fLoJBgpJCOCmnGkk5KY_PzGJDpfx7E8rG1uOSLifM-8ga_Vv6TJGvEK6bYmSkaFp/s1600/mirror+over+bed.jpg" title="Using mirrors to solve decorating problems" width="332" /></a></div><br /><br /> Sometimes a mirror when used well can replace art over a bed or mantle.  In this space the sculptural light is reflected in the mirror,  providing an interesting visual focus.<br /><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><br /><h4><b>5. To highlight art/collections</b></h4><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBzzyfrn1JBfSAk1ANmyYebwnuHqS-Fw8MHU49FO2CxVtmZ1hemcFvUquZyGAyVrFv5nJgzcN0sxzDy1YO8YH3gz8IXMsD680INslhsqYKKgbQTOWsu_6XM7GYBIB6KWCG4q-x10lfMDi7/s1600/mirrored+cabinets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="mirror behind art collection, three mirrors living room" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBzzyfrn1JBfSAk1ANmyYebwnuHqS-Fw8MHU49FO2CxVtmZ1hemcFvUquZyGAyVrFv5nJgzcN0sxzDy1YO8YH3gz8IXMsD680INslhsqYKKgbQTOWsu_6XM7GYBIB6KWCG4q-x10lfMDi7/s1600/mirrored+cabinets.jpg" title="Using mirrors to solve decorating problems" width="381" /></a></div><br /><br /><h4><b>6. To create</b><b> impact </b></h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORIUa38kzR_irWj51j1LzRQiii4WfgUs4GQ2YRJ6o5EjYMHFQDdmKTKHsWVGzg4_ml-Aqjcrk2UzoY0V-IP9Eail5HWnJI7TaPP8Uv-4rcifHNPipYT0LyRhk3B7al1kgAvmqmHVogWdv/s1600/multiple+mirrors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="repetition of arched mirrors, mirrors living room, mirrors impact" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORIUa38kzR_irWj51j1LzRQiii4WfgUs4GQ2YRJ6o5EjYMHFQDdmKTKHsWVGzg4_ml-Aqjcrk2UzoY0V-IP9Eail5HWnJI7TaPP8Uv-4rcifHNPipYT0LyRhk3B7al1kgAvmqmHVogWdv/s1600/multiple+mirrors.jpg" title="Using mirrors to solve decorating problems" width="266" /></a></div><br /> One of the best ways to create impact is through repetition.  Imagine the scene above if you just has three or four mirrors. <br /><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><br /><h4><b>7. To balance large windows </b></h4><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NFEGtJUp1DXVkfpIPXKptZ2Bksnevm5yZ_Zi1Fx1E0K7NeIx2CIE3JtpWcu4SKatYuFQWgJFEmlpM46d6gSzG3JBz8MlwhYAu-sM0T6dM7ymbsiZfrTwkO8xDeSYR-btsYiMJf0vSbdH/s1600/one+large+mirror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="mirror with large window, large mirror living room" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NFEGtJUp1DXVkfpIPXKptZ2Bksnevm5yZ_Zi1Fx1E0K7NeIx2CIE3JtpWcu4SKatYuFQWgJFEmlpM46d6gSzG3JBz8MlwhYAu-sM0T6dM7ymbsiZfrTwkO8xDeSYR-btsYiMJf0vSbdH/s1600/one+large+mirror.jpg" title="Using mirrors to solve decorating problems" width="266" /></a></div><br />I love how the mirror is large scale, soft with its rounded top, and the height relates well to the window.  The gold relates to the lamps and the table which also mimics the rounded top of the mirror. <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1m3OffaKtz6OPY_n-DqhbIQLQ-RPjYCDQV0ASHDEqevReuyLdAEFdTZX66rlZzWls91LoG1PRrOarllpDbRxyu-gqc0gej4cPGGhBELz379Vd9ER9hJxAcwo78lsyxQCpigWHBLT6qeve/s1600/stacked+mirrors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="large mirror fireplace" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1m3OffaKtz6OPY_n-DqhbIQLQ-RPjYCDQV0ASHDEqevReuyLdAEFdTZX66rlZzWls91LoG1PRrOarllpDbRxyu-gqc0gej4cPGGhBELz379Vd9ER9hJxAcwo78lsyxQCpigWHBLT6qeve/s1600/stacked+mirrors.jpg" title="Using mirrors to solve decorating problems" width="300" /></a></div><br />I am definitely interested in any solution that helps balance heights/scale  in a room.  One of the best things about this mirror treatment is how it relates to the window next to it and the furniture in the space.   You read the fireplace and mirrors as one unit. The fireplace alone is small and delicate.  Keeping the mirror frame lighter and gold helps it to relate to the other furnishings in the space.<br /><br />Seven reasons why you should have a mirror in your home apart from the obvious.  Who knew? Are you a mirror lover?  I'm sad to say my mirror choices are purely functional.  What about yours?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Please find links to photos on my Pinterest board <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/mryall/mirrors/">Mirrors</a>.</span></div>

Using mirrors to solve decorating problems

Sometimes I have to remind myself of the power of mirrors to solve common decorating problems.   Here are seven  fantastic uses of mirrors t...

Read more »

Lighting your dining table

The right lighting can make a room sing, but often our rooms are  off key. When you have a house of a certain age (30 years for me) there comes a time when you know you have  to update your look. When I started to change the lighting in my home, I began with the two over my tables because they would have the most impact. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wLD4jnq5a1imnnHyOhExYIp5rUQKEwIwImfHVp6jUjBrwaD8gajemGD2rNTji1boK1LrPtopF6m839eKkfe92iMtP4XSO0m8CwmwW6OmbzsDSu_AVlsfh_cPNPO7vzFY5OVsWD8Q9WVo/s1600/DSCN8720_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="dining table, lighting, drum pendant, contemporary,Designing Home, Margaret Ryall " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wLD4jnq5a1imnnHyOhExYIp5rUQKEwIwImfHVp6jUjBrwaD8gajemGD2rNTji1boK1LrPtopF6m839eKkfe92iMtP4XSO0m8CwmwW6OmbzsDSu_AVlsfh_cPNPO7vzFY5OVsWD8Q9WVo/s1600/DSCN8720_01.JPG" title="Lighting your dining table" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kitchen table </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span><span style="text-align: left;">When you're buying lighting to hang over a table you should consider these  factors:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><br /><br /> <b>Height of ceiling</b><br /><b><br /></b>A taller ceiling  often requires  larger fixtures; many new home builds in my area now have 9 foot ceilings.<br /><b><br /></b><b>Size and shape of table</b><br /><b><br /></b>Your fixture should complement not overpower your table.  You can also have lighting fixtures that are too small for a table.  I am particular about  what shape fixture I mount over a round table; I like to repeat the shape with a circular format, but that's just me. <br /><b><br /></b><b>Height of homeowners</b><br /><b><br /></b> It is a fact that tall homeowners have a greater chance of continually bumping into lights hung too low over a table when they are setting or removing dishes.  Some people are so tall your would never mount pendants high enough!<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b><b>Height above table</b><br /><b><br /></b>The specifics of how high to hang your fixture can be confusing because you will find a range of suggestions depending on which sites you consult.  Don't let that deter you.  My adage is "Common sense prevails".<br /><br /> I tend to think in terms of a range while taking other factors into account including: personal preference, the height of the homeowners, fixture size, style of fixture, ceiling height, task to be illuminated etc.  Read on for examples.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><ul style="text-align: left;"></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyzVAoIIFPND49pyAca6gP38Ka4BafJ2hiiOk6Ufb1KnlLYGu0CnxTZdDjnI7poKVgZx7yrhlBvNwPvYwaCNj-8hu1dSrMG4AfEiP_Hrwa0j6CCdDJkTVH9_4n_UyNZjHjE-q4hOAuBpcY/s1600/visual+lighting+a+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="graphic lighting your dining table" border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyzVAoIIFPND49pyAca6gP38Ka4BafJ2hiiOk6Ufb1KnlLYGu0CnxTZdDjnI7poKVgZx7yrhlBvNwPvYwaCNj-8hu1dSrMG4AfEiP_Hrwa0j6CCdDJkTVH9_4n_UyNZjHjE-q4hOAuBpcY/s1600/visual+lighting+a+table.jpg" title="Lighting your dining table" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.wegotlites.net/Lighting-Planning-Guide_ep_88-1.html">Light Planning and Styling Guide</a> </div><br />The general recommendations for  hanging a fixture over a table is 28 - 32 inches above the table if you have an eight foot ceiling.  This graphic from <a href="http://www.wegotlites.net/Lighting-Planning-Guide_ep_88-1.html">wegotlites</a> recommends 30 inches from the table for an 8 foot ceiling.   I placed my kitchen table pendant  at 32 inches from the table top so I wouldn't continually bump it when working. It works most times, but when I reach in too far I still bump it.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLFKuGlW-C5hFjRaqnIS0D1g_nox3hY5Uzo3CihRcVQJpMGonwgKptwc2erYglopjKhpnj1Rov-XuhnkFMxTwOoCR865rRKnrTHMOf3qWw24c6MO4ztvHpCMkvn487zwKG3vt74NK7d9A/s1600/FullSizeRender+(6).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="dining room pendant, hanging height, " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLFKuGlW-C5hFjRaqnIS0D1g_nox3hY5Uzo3CihRcVQJpMGonwgKptwc2erYglopjKhpnj1Rov-XuhnkFMxTwOoCR865rRKnrTHMOf3qWw24c6MO4ztvHpCMkvn487zwKG3vt74NK7d9A/s1600/FullSizeRender+(6).jpg" title="Lighting your dining table " width="295" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Art by <a href="http://www.mikegoughart.com/">Mike Gough </a></span></div><br /><br />My dining room pendant is 34 inches from the table.   Being able to view my art collection to best advantage in very important to me, so  I moved the  dining room pendant up an additional two inches from the hanging height in the kitchen  so visitors can  view the art over the buffet without disruption while sitting in the living room.  You may not find this consideration in any lighting guide!<br /><br />Another set of guidelines recommend measuring  from the floor  to the bottom of the shade and suggest 60 - 66 inches as reasonable.  Most tables are 30 inches high.  That would put the height from the floor  to my kitchen  shade at 62 inches, and my dining shade at 64 inches, both are within this guideline.<br /><br />If you have ceilings higher than eight feet, go up 3 inches for each additional foot above eight feet. <br /><br /> <b>Size of fixture </b><br /><b><br /></b> For most applications the diameter of your light fixture should be at least 1/2 the width of your table or even up to 2/3 the width of your table.   My kitchen fixture is exactly one half the width of the table at 18 inches in diameter.  That's the proportion I like.  I could have gone with a diameter of up to 24 in. without it looking too large.  My dining fixture is only 16 inches  in diameter, but looks larger.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Sizing based on room dimensions</b><br /><b><br /></b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeh97E16dPACL8T3nLOjuFFT4dD8-VjxDF7yMCko43p9ehsrJSO_hCIjyV5N_GvQdieBceQ7F8-DDfx7wxleCkqqmO-dwV_eImmNloot3FntHVvMWsfNyBvzHou1jsOAzsK41xQPgdG3ns/s1600/room+size+and+lighting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="graphic lighting your dining table, Designing Home, Margaret Ryall" border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeh97E16dPACL8T3nLOjuFFT4dD8-VjxDF7yMCko43p9ehsrJSO_hCIjyV5N_GvQdieBceQ7F8-DDfx7wxleCkqqmO-dwV_eImmNloot3FntHVvMWsfNyBvzHou1jsOAzsK41xQPgdG3ns/s1600/room+size+and+lighting.jpg" title="Lighting your dining table " width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.wegotlites.net/Lighting-Planning-Guide_ep_88-1.html">Light Planning and Styling Guide </a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />There is another guideline for determining the size of your fixture. Add the length and width of your room together ( eg., 11 feet +14 feet ) and convert the sum to inches (25in.) and that should be the diameter of your  fixture.<br /><br /> Of course that is not a hard and fast rule, but it will provide a light fixture that is a focal point for the room.  This formula works better for a statement fixture  in an entrance or stairway.  You can see how it could get out of control in a dining room.  Eg. 15 feet + 20 feet would give a fixture diameter  of 35 in.  That's the width of most dining tables. <br /><br /><div><b>Function of fixtures</b><br /><b><br /></b></div><div>The illumination given off by drum shades  is soft and calming,  but  bright enough to provide lighting for an entire room.  When a large drum pendant is hung over a table it not only anchors the vignette, but if placed on a dimmer the fixture can provide brighter light for any tasks done at the table and softer light while dining. While I don't have anything against chandeliers, I don't have any in my own home.I'm definitely into clean lines and a very sparse contemporary feel.</div><br /><br />I am planning another post about lighting selection for various rooms as I get ready to replace the fixtures in my summer house.   Stay tuned.  </div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">What variables do you consider when hanging a light over a dining table?</div><br /></div></div>

Lighting your dining table

The right lighting can make a room sing, but often our rooms are  off key. When you have a house of a certain age (30 years for me) there co...

Read more »

Adding greenery to contemporary decor

After a dreary northern winter I begin to long for a spot of green in my decor.   I've even given my blog a new green look.<br /><br /> Last spring I wrote about my <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2014/03/do-you-need-little-luck.html">lucky bamboo</a>,  my default plant that resulted from an aborted shamrock search.  Poles apart, I know!  Choice is often limited when you live on an island; you can convince yourself it's what you wanted all along. <br /><br /> I've been enjoying my bamboo and it seems to love my house.<br /><br /> I went to look for one for a friend for Christmas.  None to be had, but I could find a shamrock.  Go figure.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6TUNPzEUXCzXGrZwDeQUYFMj8vVDp-z3RBhrtjjTgXUIfzYn05psXuDg9BddWd6lZHrRZwnoTr4EZ7r_jWhcAXAHXEFLzLtyhQkHzsFDWOR5V-Rw533q1X1fiFi8Txkm1-Pi6VaKjgqmi/s1600/plant++bamboo2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6TUNPzEUXCzXGrZwDeQUYFMj8vVDp-z3RBhrtjjTgXUIfzYn05psXuDg9BddWd6lZHrRZwnoTr4EZ7r_jWhcAXAHXEFLzLtyhQkHzsFDWOR5V-Rw533q1X1fiFi8Txkm1-Pi6VaKjgqmi/s1600/plant++bamboo2.jpg" title="Adding greenery to contemporary decor " width="293" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZRarHtfxmNtyIF-UeQS4BBotajBlilsKXQcpjNpgb7K7yeDns-BVwFev90JCfIBb01nMPpCnwOO0J7-6wCONTqJRwQLWTokPR6dkaN53osOXK_8f1aLu4PY0GPLpr0VFGLcHTGCC4IGFS/s1600/DSCN0083_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZRarHtfxmNtyIF-UeQS4BBotajBlilsKXQcpjNpgb7K7yeDns-BVwFev90JCfIBb01nMPpCnwOO0J7-6wCONTqJRwQLWTokPR6dkaN53osOXK_8f1aLu4PY0GPLpr0VFGLcHTGCC4IGFS/s1600/DSCN0083_01.JPG" title="Adding greenery to contemporary decor " width="300" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">What a difference a year makes. </div><br />There's nothing like a plant or a grouping of flowering branches to bring a space to life.  Even the most neutral colour schemes sing when there's a little green around.<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpSRzOJVl95YNFuOOB-QYZoWy5RaLYxlUvMUAEkNucc-NFd-4DCqEwxmWhgMlLk_X5TREf3LHDVZje8ZJjcJW8av9qsFn8OqjMxVcKL-5otbMEUOhcLvGRrSyHpZ30Vcxa4D2H72n5ZsPa/s1600/gray+and+cream+with+branches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpSRzOJVl95YNFuOOB-QYZoWy5RaLYxlUvMUAEkNucc-NFd-4DCqEwxmWhgMlLk_X5TREf3LHDVZje8ZJjcJW8av9qsFn8OqjMxVcKL-5otbMEUOhcLvGRrSyHpZ30Vcxa4D2H72n5ZsPa/s1600/gray+and+cream+with+branches.jpg" title="Adding greenery to contemporary decor " width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1uwQHbN2G0FrUdYqBhQLWnUxYZcPHNrT8HPhKNfiE0fls154LBLndEJM2qovoNJX4bOsYgbGyE30ScgF-xvtwbgj4o8AlWEOWPBWIZA4cQ1h3J-uCu7lL555YNgJDCoAIsZHqE646sn0/s1600/twigs+living+room+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1uwQHbN2G0FrUdYqBhQLWnUxYZcPHNrT8HPhKNfiE0fls154LBLndEJM2qovoNJX4bOsYgbGyE30ScgF-xvtwbgj4o8AlWEOWPBWIZA4cQ1h3J-uCu7lL555YNgJDCoAIsZHqE646sn0/s1600/twigs+living+room+.jpg" title="Adding greenery to contemporary decor " width="323" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinLz_KzgGcDfkmo_LMQEQqjosWnaiyNHps-6l1PY9bYJMlhfSIsATSj07osfZJzTQIn81dJubXEc0PByVRw_ZblZOtqgdPf2Qm6reQq2fX4Umdj-I2INze5yfKtoXuj_qG-1g1kGLuVUj_/s1600/plant+console.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1AGNx4Wa-QSuH9ijMFHtSjvRqNyXqjxVyxRd3VfT9PcPuHRsPbkozMR7zkjQBBLjSXBp9ln2pCFBfeHvqupPCZyFJuQIKCOQztOQOLnWa0SVwDl7ryqZZlg_6NkeDZ9StHBcg2h0Bnkyr/s1600/greenery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1AGNx4Wa-QSuH9ijMFHtSjvRqNyXqjxVyxRd3VfT9PcPuHRsPbkozMR7zkjQBBLjSXBp9ln2pCFBfeHvqupPCZyFJuQIKCOQztOQOLnWa0SVwDl7ryqZZlg_6NkeDZ9StHBcg2h0Bnkyr/s1600/greenery.jpg" title="Adding greenery to contemporary decor " width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcLJf6MRkbsQcB8sJuY86qLt7EDPC0m8NhI6StgA0AiTFQeXqMBoSJf5obPhr4A3iapM_Kd5vo8Hin4AUGBcOlCFP39TsCNtW8jFS4dv0WsCWQix0jE-BZa9eYxOqCUT9eyp3uSNWwiPHP/s1600/bells+of+Ireland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcLJf6MRkbsQcB8sJuY86qLt7EDPC0m8NhI6StgA0AiTFQeXqMBoSJf5obPhr4A3iapM_Kd5vo8Hin4AUGBcOlCFP39TsCNtW8jFS4dv0WsCWQix0jE-BZa9eYxOqCUT9eyp3uSNWwiPHP/s1600/bells+of+Ireland.jpg" title="Adding greenery to contemporary decor " width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMRnVMJFLvy6AxKQZlccMptuq7EBAGsHwn2rZEBbD8pqUWcHr3Io9UDihvpTumGxjkDYWbGIkIxIIh6y2i6-5ZasaXSyFVz7YWXFQYk9kOq4YZp6aNrhR6kLsTP2HwqDGcomBz9_rxfCm/s1600/plant+bathroom+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcMRnVMJFLvy6AxKQZlccMptuq7EBAGsHwn2rZEBbD8pqUWcHr3Io9UDihvpTumGxjkDYWbGIkIxIIh6y2i6-5ZasaXSyFVz7YWXFQYk9kOq4YZp6aNrhR6kLsTP2HwqDGcomBz9_rxfCm/s1600/plant+bathroom+2.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiECtqIHCqNZXs6yRZ6z63L9Puu4oYWTqZZT95K-yOGKR7wkz3i38apcQy3W6vjK2PuImRQiUunApjxZOcmxUiENeQeEwkGRlqPpv-G9t0e3TLx930XnZ0UzC_afJf-cR75ZEuDTzWsHdE3/s1600/plant+in+bath.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFyX8Hit1PFB1hpiqBY385xypUzOLk0Az-M24QUsqdti09mB13b0kemqcjZhlixOzOiGYoeATj4rqKVjwAYorvO46NuBFJdrNLNilwRXCiZR9fqe96PzWOPGEx8J4iqG1s6oCCrkbkDyjc/s1600/corner+plant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFyX8Hit1PFB1hpiqBY385xypUzOLk0Az-M24QUsqdti09mB13b0kemqcjZhlixOzOiGYoeATj4rqKVjwAYorvO46NuBFJdrNLNilwRXCiZR9fqe96PzWOPGEx8J4iqG1s6oCCrkbkDyjc/s1600/corner+plant.jpg" title="Adding greenery to contemporary decor " width="266" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhWNQHMNGwBAHDXY1CqK-dtgOaxlqTRwDCd2cNEugraV00mamrEkbl6udTFhNaLaY6qX8MrQ6yaDvPPJrQrmTOhzuOOE3LE5ituNvPWvlBitm7bhUi9LqBrVNbCLI8L2cdALnOg_Nv3zM4/s1600/plant+console.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhWNQHMNGwBAHDXY1CqK-dtgOaxlqTRwDCd2cNEugraV00mamrEkbl6udTFhNaLaY6qX8MrQ6yaDvPPJrQrmTOhzuOOE3LE5ituNvPWvlBitm7bhUi9LqBrVNbCLI8L2cdALnOg_Nv3zM4/s1600/plant+console.jpg" title="Adding greenery to contemporary decor " width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucRpVGmzIXUzyJKZOAoNAHuiQrcwTEhSZQwnoVPxP-HmmZ8Yt7EY8sbS7Scq1uxEIICCCKXliIVjn23q5ilEgWRBnejH0G_WbbNa-xbz6-3vYAVlMOwoGRTYTlHxR7h0SWxXszvHOuSaH/s1600/neutral+decor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiucRpVGmzIXUzyJKZOAoNAHuiQrcwTEhSZQwnoVPxP-HmmZ8Yt7EY8sbS7Scq1uxEIICCCKXliIVjn23q5ilEgWRBnejH0G_WbbNa-xbz6-3vYAVlMOwoGRTYTlHxR7h0SWxXszvHOuSaH/s1600/neutral+decor.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/mryall/branches-twigs-leaves/">Pinterest  </a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Can you have too many plants?  Yes, in my opinion.  You don't want a jungle. One or two plants  get noticed and more than that becomes a bit of a mess.  You may disagree.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>

Adding greenery to contemporary decor

After a dreary northern winter I begin to long for a spot of green in my decor.   I've even given my blog a new green look.  Last spring...

Read more »