Thursday Tip # 12- Art above the sofa

Do you have  one big blank space above the sofa?  Are you wondering how to fill it?  If the number of questions I get about this is any indication there are lots of question marks out there about this topic.  Ta da... answers.  I  introduced this topic a little in last week's <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2014/02/thursday-tip-11-art-and-space.html">Thursday Tip  </a>when I discussed scale, but I wanted to give more formatting options this week.  <br /><br /> This is an area where there are lots of thoughts on how to and how not to hang art for best effect.<br />My guideline is to think about ways to fill at least 2/3 the width of the furniture. It is often difficult to find large scale art so think about pairings of various types.  It also looks good if your art expands to the edges of the sofa.  Once you go beyond  sofa width the art starts to look very top heavy and the sofa  is diminished. You should also consider the height of the art.   Remember it is a long way to the ceiling so refrain from work that is only twelve or 14 inches high.  It will look lost even if it is long enough. <br /><br />I have to thank  <a href="http://www.interiorspl.com/strona-gwna/przychodz-z-pomoc-uciliwemu-miejscu.html">Interiors PL  </a>  for creating this great graphic that provides many options for what to hang over a sofa. <br /><br /><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/AVvXsEjG_DdiV574eJDXzu8xvcIo5aEqWazUqIZhwtV5HhV5BpLITA_fB388xsMZJu5WF1MTzFKGpt950-i0ix42jQsmIVN49Mz_aUqBExwn_3rL5lEaokRoXA2IfFv_QYz1iz7-oB2qd-Vl_tj_/s1600/hanging-art-above-sofa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt=" ideas for hanging art over sofa " border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG_DdiV574eJDXzu8xvcIo5aEqWazUqIZhwtV5HhV5BpLITA_fB388xsMZJu5WF1MTzFKGpt950-i0ix42jQsmIVN49Mz_aUqBExwn_3rL5lEaokRoXA2IfFv_QYz1iz7-oB2qd-Vl_tj_/s1600/hanging-art-above-sofa.jpg" title="Art above the sofa" width="248" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">11 options for hanging art over a sofa. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>My favourites in these options are  4, and 6-11.  They all fit the guidelines I discussed above.  1 and 3 are my least favourite because they don't fill up enough space for me.  I like 5 because it is asymmetrical  and I could balance this placement by adding things on the left of the sofa to create a pleasing balance. Richard Mishaan discussed  another aspect of asymmetrical placement in a <a href="http://www.housebeautiful.com/decorating/ideas/how-to-hang-art-over-a-sofa#slide-3">House Beautiful post. </a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></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/AVvXsEjc1wDNaY3MhVIJ-58IZAXsaPo6xs9ZegLw8SpmyGFFvFepaguqT-7X7Wu2irh881F5kk_5y2i-T9emBYNmxKmhekvjfbDGLBGuYx8RnH0CQtoecWS-tNfvlqHX9mFFT-D0OiRZ5lakYkAE/s1600/small-art-over-sofa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="design tip hanging art assymetrical " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc1wDNaY3MhVIJ-58IZAXsaPo6xs9ZegLw8SpmyGFFvFepaguqT-7X7Wu2irh881F5kk_5y2i-T9emBYNmxKmhekvjfbDGLBGuYx8RnH0CQtoecWS-tNfvlqHX9mFFT-D0OiRZ5lakYkAE/s1600/small-art-over-sofa.jpg" title="Art above the sofa" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why asymmetrical layouts work </td></tr></tbody></table><br />Here is the same idea expressed in one of my painting compositions called Breathe. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYD6_H6MhsdwJAeVeEZpfbk_USlrPXYQcoMb62pLGuJPue8byMgHlo1WBYEV2AzlTm9ZimCI4XWXDMSPwuTpyHQdfqx0i3MAe-LjNEA_IcpQnXu3nCjDQDaAkxlYT6Vrk-eiKegWs2flvX/s1600/breathe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ayssemetrical composition acrylic painting Margaret Ryall" border="0" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYD6_H6MhsdwJAeVeEZpfbk_USlrPXYQcoMb62pLGuJPue8byMgHlo1WBYEV2AzlTm9ZimCI4XWXDMSPwuTpyHQdfqx0i3MAe-LjNEA_IcpQnXu3nCjDQDaAkxlYT6Vrk-eiKegWs2flvX/s1600/breathe.jpg" title="Breath Margaret Ryall 2004" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Margaret Ryall, 2004, Breathe, acrylic on canvas, 12 x 24in.</div><br /> Are any of these options wrong?  Not really.  There are only guidelines in interior design,  no right or wrong.  <br /><br />Do you have a favourite way to arrange art above your sofa?  Please share. <br /><br />

Thursday Tip # 12- Art above the sofa

Do you have  one big blank space above the sofa?  Are you wondering how to fill it?  If the number of questions I get about this is any indi...

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Thursday Tip # 10 - A splash of colour

My favourite decorating style  revolves around walls and furniture in neutrals enhanced  with splashes of colour .  This is a very easy style for anyone to pull off.  The colour is usually in accessories, but sometimes it can be in  a piece of furniture.  Let's take a look at several rooms to see how it's done. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCXK5XtCGLIJUHPIgYQzf0rXFbZHxulKj3baO7JNhWGOrHIR-zztMaYR0psyh9BpXdpl9PVsZABydSgFAchGDtYQ_5XbXKExXTw_pSWGJQmp0eKGKTPmiDMk1yX_9Wtx7_Az7IWMiNQ4xi/s1600/171277592048037722_Uurb8Amz_b.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/AVvXsEhCXK5XtCGLIJUHPIgYQzf0rXFbZHxulKj3baO7JNhWGOrHIR-zztMaYR0psyh9BpXdpl9PVsZABydSgFAchGDtYQ_5XbXKExXTw_pSWGJQmp0eKGKTPmiDMk1yX_9Wtx7_Az7IWMiNQ4xi/s1600/171277592048037722_Uurb8Amz_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCXK5XtCGLIJUHPIgYQzf0rXFbZHxulKj3baO7JNhWGOrHIR-zztMaYR0psyh9BpXdpl9PVsZABydSgFAchGDtYQ_5XbXKExXTw_pSWGJQmp0eKGKTPmiDMk1yX_9Wtx7_Az7IWMiNQ4xi/s320/171277592048037722_Uurb8Amz_b.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCXK5XtCGLIJUHPIgYQzf0rXFbZHxulKj3baO7JNhWGOrHIR-zztMaYR0psyh9BpXdpl9PVsZABydSgFAchGDtYQ_5XbXKExXTw_pSWGJQmp0eKGKTPmiDMk1yX_9Wtx7_Az7IWMiNQ4xi/s1600/171277592048037722_Uurb8Amz_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.centsationalgirl.com/">Centsational Girl </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The largest block of yellow is the door. It could just as easily have been a chair or an area rug.  The yellow is repeated in a print duvet cover.  A print always adds interest.  The throw is yellow and very textured.  The yellow follows through to the bathroom in the vases, mat and towel.  That's probably enough.  After that there would be too much yellow and it would not longer be neutral and a splash!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The room below has a very subtle splash of pink in the wallpaper and two chairs.  I'm craving at least one other splash somewhere in the room to make it three (counting the chairs as one).  Perhaps it's outside of the photograph frame.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">  </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/346794/High-Point-Market-2011-Color-Trends---portland"><img alt="High Point Market 2011 Color Trends " border="0" height="300" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/346794_0_8-0787--.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/other" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/7537/Pangaea-Interior-Design-Portland-OR" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Pangaea Interior Design, </a></small><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/346796/High-Point-Market-2011-Color-Trends---portland"><img alt="High Point Market 2011 Color Trends " border="0" height="300" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/346796_0_8-0816--.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/other" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/7537/Pangaea-Interior-Design-Portland-OR" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Pangaea Interior Design, </a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">Turquoise blue/teal works with any decor.  We have a colour triangle in this room with the chair, pillows (as one), and art work. </span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/186197/Glenwood-Residence-contemporary-living-room-little-rock"><img alt="Glenwood Residence contemporary living room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/186197_0_8-9570-contemporary-living-room.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/living-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/12637/Tobi-Fairley" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Tobi Fairley</a></small><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">Tobi Fairley loves to use very vibrant pops of colour in here room designs.  The artwork  and ottoman are the most prominent features. but the strip on the drapes and the flowers help  move your eye around  the room and provide varying proportions of red. </span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">I'm getting ready to redecorate my master bedroom and I plan to use a  soft green with cream. A full post is coming up on this minor transformation.   The splashes of colour do not have to be vibrant.  Check these out.  </span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTFgvCiQBV0bZZYu3id3xUCo_0syMujqWuEVblV4BvT65f-8ZW1eDELz3mhky-n_HpxL-sBIjJnMoDd5oUAPMjADpQ3an5uQseNrZlLg3hcW5GYR2fn5JL2xmGFAZNqMzXPWTtqHKKAfHj/s1600/45-makeoverwhite-bedroom-0208-xlg-81557397.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTFgvCiQBV0bZZYu3id3xUCo_0syMujqWuEVblV4BvT65f-8ZW1eDELz3mhky-n_HpxL-sBIjJnMoDd5oUAPMjADpQ3an5uQseNrZlLg3hcW5GYR2fn5JL2xmGFAZNqMzXPWTtqHKKAfHj/s400/45-makeoverwhite-bedroom-0208-xlg-81557397.jpg" width="312" /></a><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">Similar to what I have in mind for my own room, <a href="http://sarahrichardsondesign.com/">Sara Richardson </a>has used soft greens in different patterns on the bed, and then sprinkled several green accessories around the room. </span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></small></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmAF7rxMPGSXmN_oJRxkPc-YEBo3AcjHuvKj0u5gWrKt5-03ScHLMzTyEnsl4ZMBz3cWZ23GfJXYZ9ZT_79L7e_raA5Ok75q2akQX2WIh7x8x-iQsCffvV2sT1Dg3yIBw2JI4YIt3gLq6H/s1600/171277592048032591_MfDkpziN_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmAF7rxMPGSXmN_oJRxkPc-YEBo3AcjHuvKj0u5gWrKt5-03ScHLMzTyEnsl4ZMBz3cWZ23GfJXYZ9ZT_79L7e_raA5Ok75q2akQX2WIh7x8x-iQsCffvV2sT1Dg3yIBw2JI4YIt3gLq6H/s400/171277592048032591_MfDkpziN_b.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://irideeen.blogspot.com/">source </a></span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> The pink in this design is so soft it is barely discernible, but it enhances the gray and off white just enough to make the room interesting. Again, pattern plays a prominent role in how the pink moves around the room.  </span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>

Thursday Tip # 10 - A splash of colour

My favourite decorating style  revolves around walls and furniture in neutrals enhanced  with splashes of colour .  This is a very easy styl...

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Thursday tip # 9 - small rooms

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/98162/Stamford-Bedroom-Detail-traditional-bedroom-austin"><img alt="Stamford Bedroom Detail traditional bedroom" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/98162_0_8-0439-traditional-bedroom.jpg" width="335" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional/bedroom" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/architect/austin" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/12999/Hugh-Jefferson-Randolph-Architects" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects</a></small><br /><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;">There are many options when one has to decorate a small room.  These ideas are built on the principle of keeping all aspects of the decor as minimal and connected as possible. Since this is the look I prefer in any room, small rooms are never a challenge and I even prefer them.  </span></small><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><small><span style="font-size: small;">choose a monochromatic colour scheme (as above)</span></small><small><span style="font-size: small;">, or a neutral one with pops of colour </span></small></li><li><small><span style="font-size: small;">keep accessories in one colour range (in this room it's brass)</span></small></li><li><small><span style="font-size: small;">use multipurpose furniture ( stacking tables)</span></small></li><li><small><span style="font-size: small;">consider adding a shelf for storage/display to move things  off the floor</span></small></li><li><small><span style="font-size: small;">use multipurpose accessories (lamp that looks like a sculpture; interesting mirror instead of art work; beautiful boxes that can be used for storage</span></small></li><li><small><span style="font-size: small;">use many textures instead of bold patterns (in pillows, window treatments)</span></small></li><li><small><span style="font-size: small;">use furniture that is in proportion to the room</span></small></li><li><small><span style="font-size: small;">keep the lines of larger pieces simple</span></small></li><li><small><span style="font-size: small;">when choosing artwork focus on one striking piece and have anything else play a supporting role.  </span></small></li><li><small><span style="font-size: small;">use strong verticals to move your eye up (long drapes, vertical art work, tall slim lamps)</span></small></li><li><small><span style="font-size: small;">use your window as a backdrop for the placement of a prominent piece of furniture (bed i or chair)</span></small></li></ul></div>

Thursday tip # 9 - small rooms

Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects There are many options when one has to decorate a small room.  These ideas are built on the principle of...

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Thursday Tip # 8 - make it white

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFYnPCi3G8ULR1drwN_gMFHCUiysLfjK23mf-1nwXygS6AIA7B7w4jZfYinTnRn6U4NbBFRa8aMZ80eSCO46O9rsF_P6yMIP1EWTVAPmsIlg5DBj1FU9xC7b55JkfNsAeqXqbOVFtwKFi/s1600/costal+living1868012-white-mirrors-xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFYnPCi3G8ULR1drwN_gMFHCUiysLfjK23mf-1nwXygS6AIA7B7w4jZfYinTnRn6U4NbBFRa8aMZ80eSCO46O9rsF_P6yMIP1EWTVAPmsIlg5DBj1FU9xC7b55JkfNsAeqXqbOVFtwKFi/s320/costal+living1868012-white-mirrors-xl.jpg" width="304" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Coastal Living</div><br />There is something so soothing about a monochromatic colour scheme.  I have friends who would say boring not soothing. but to each his own.  It might seem easy to have a room is varying tones of one hue but not so.  It's even more difficult to design a white room to look interesting.  The trick is to emphasize shape and texture through repetition above all else. Don't forget that there are hundreds of whites with varying undertones and temperatures. <br /><br />Why does this room work?<br /><ul><li> white shows up all the textures and lines in the room;</li><li>the small mirrors arranged in a grid add a strong repetitive element and each looks like a small painting because of the reflections from outside (I'm assuming); that adds optical texture;</li><li>the walls are horizontal boards which play against the square mirrors;</li><li>apart from the texture of the white boards, the horizontal lines are soothing and are repeated in the cabinet below:  </li><li>the arrangement has various shapes( cones, spheres, stars) and surfaces (reflective, matt, rough, smooth);</li><li>shiny surfaces add an unknown quality because you never know what will be reflected;</li><li>the whites are on the warmer side and a little "dirty" which doesn't look stark. </li></ul>Here are several other white rooms.  Do you think they are successful? What do they have in common with the room above? <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoLGYvgVxSr6-vj9IxZoeQ4bDwYgJIDtkrf7wGBThpK_g7UN6KLEACixczkh2oiC7080gsP4hsc03AkZqIXgHe8hjVQvk69dXi4Cpl7PfZjSFTFIgUHWRysNQ-XE7SpyEP_1Qlo7egzHu5/s1600/decorating-with-white-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoLGYvgVxSr6-vj9IxZoeQ4bDwYgJIDtkrf7wGBThpK_g7UN6KLEACixczkh2oiC7080gsP4hsc03AkZqIXgHe8hjVQvk69dXi4Cpl7PfZjSFTFIgUHWRysNQ-XE7SpyEP_1Qlo7egzHu5/s320/decorating-with-white-03.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Elle Decor</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEiQzTyz36591XGCyupGGyJ7TxurZCoas5v_DMM-hlf0XnbbvbOd7Ru0MTpaDLgirZW9mKpvbulCOwtG9vNmIxjeMn65OENA0ygI6Q6cbijg8q5RziK3f7VFZLgAsZvFs13tQLPlx9uObe/s1600/hbx-modern-california-bathroom-dog-0411-hoefer08-mdn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEiQzTyz36591XGCyupGGyJ7TxurZCoas5v_DMM-hlf0XnbbvbOd7Ru0MTpaDLgirZW9mKpvbulCOwtG9vNmIxjeMn65OENA0ygI6Q6cbijg8q5RziK3f7VFZLgAsZvFs13tQLPlx9uObe/s320/hbx-modern-california-bathroom-dog-0411-hoefer08-mdn.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.housebeautiful.com/decorating/house-pictures/white-room-decorating-ideas-0411#fbIndex8">House Beautiful</a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/124387/Marcelo-Brito---Sao-Paulo---Brazil-contemporary-dining-room-other-metros"><img alt="Marcelo Brito - Sao Paulo - Brazil contemporary dining room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/124387_0_8-0699-contemporary-dining-room.jpg" width="315" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/16342/Marcelo-Brito" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Marcelo Brito</a></small><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Which do you prefer?  </span></div>

Thursday Tip # 8 - make it white

Coastal Living There is something so soothing about a monochromatic colour scheme.  I have friends who would say boring not soothing. but to...

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Thursday Tip #7- Editing a bookcase

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDoi2CoMCHCZDvQBCS8BO0rFLzmXfP8vw7-YjNVIOoB-3h37HHv-Vbj87bj1xX8a1SPexLM6EnfKHtVcKnngze1ChY-8YYoFPpDbWjJbmQGRqnbJO_TAhZ4stAfQGPi0-uIY_sXHeIzrxP/s1600/404384739_4mLbUAbs_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDoi2CoMCHCZDvQBCS8BO0rFLzmXfP8vw7-YjNVIOoB-3h37HHv-Vbj87bj1xX8a1SPexLM6EnfKHtVcKnngze1ChY-8YYoFPpDbWjJbmQGRqnbJO_TAhZ4stAfQGPi0-uIY_sXHeIzrxP/s320/404384739_4mLbUAbs_c.jpg" width="258" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Control your bookcase</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you're like me this is easier said than done.  I don't like a bookcase to look too edited, but grouping objects and books is a must.  I won't go so far as to suggest covering books with the same colour paper  or lining them up by colour as I've seen in some magazines.  </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">What works in his arrangement ?</div><ul><li>the bookcase has been treated as an accent wall by painting the back a beautiful blue</li><li>sculptural objects are massed and are  the same colour - white- which shows against the blue</li><li>there's a range of objects including books, vases, photos and found objects</li><li>the books have been sorted by height</li><li>books are placed both horizontally and vertically</li></ul>If you wanted to further edit this arrangement you could consider:<br /><ul><li>removing the photos; they are lost in the display </li><li>if you are arranging books horizontally, keep to that, don't start to stack vertically on top of the horizontal ones; stacking some horizontally and some vertically on the same shelf works</li><li>don't add a piece of sculpture on top of a books (see bowl) , this is sculptural enough to display alone and gets lost otherwise. </li><li>if you have an arrangement of vases, bottles etc.  don't add a picture behind it- it gets lost.</li></ul> From one extreme to the next...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTjrBpFxAO-FI6j-wgSo3sRIQWd1kEuGSYdqSbHiueqWsiT4GTjmTXEINBdeeizfQdgXvZsXAB-962Kke_0MXJlysTzQqcP-nI-2l2Y9QnhjWSs7PunQsaLo7x0URd0NOtWaNOkVg0MAYF/s1600/greatdesign_thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTjrBpFxAO-FI6j-wgSo3sRIQWd1kEuGSYdqSbHiueqWsiT4GTjmTXEINBdeeizfQdgXvZsXAB-962Kke_0MXJlysTzQqcP-nI-2l2Y9QnhjWSs7PunQsaLo7x0URd0NOtWaNOkVg0MAYF/s320/greatdesign_thumb.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> Quiet and unobtrusive, this bookcase provides a lovely backdrop for the two chairs grouped in front of it.  This is a room I would like to sit in . <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBB_KqKsLi5cblgpjHFxURHXDNNGqiAp3k02cJLWRaLG8A8SgfX8-b5YobRVBlIGrvtE5hfiCsbGOSBJACua7lzcM15WmuTWHRZ1piNCmg7NNFHlkLTsvunHkARGrUwV8LwnAOaZ2htcoy/s1600/Original_Flea-Market-Accessories-Shelf_s4x3_lg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBB_KqKsLi5cblgpjHFxURHXDNNGqiAp3k02cJLWRaLG8A8SgfX8-b5YobRVBlIGrvtE5hfiCsbGOSBJACua7lzcM15WmuTWHRZ1piNCmg7NNFHlkLTsvunHkARGrUwV8LwnAOaZ2htcoy/s320/Original_Flea-Market-Accessories-Shelf_s4x3_lg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">HGTV</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is a whole other way of  organizing a bookcase.  While is is ordered, it has a very vibrant almost chaotic feel to it.  It has way too much visual energy for my taste, but there's someone who loves it.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBB_KqKsLi5cblgpjHFxURHXDNNGqiAp3k02cJLWRaLG8A8SgfX8-b5YobRVBlIGrvtE5hfiCsbGOSBJACua7lzcM15WmuTWHRZ1piNCmg7NNFHlkLTsvunHkARGrUwV8LwnAOaZ2htcoy/s1600/Original_Flea-Market-Accessories-Shelf_s4x3_lg.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">If you want more inspiration check out <a href="http://www.thelennoxx.com/category/tips-and-tricks/">The Lennox</a>,  a great blog that I follow. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Did you find a useful tip  in this post or do you have one to add? </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Happy Shelving</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>

Thursday Tip #7- Editing a bookcase

Control your bookcase If you're like me this is easier said than done.  I don't like a bookcase to look too edited, but grouping obj...

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Thursday Tip #6- simple centerpieces

Keep it simple...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaBtUqs1ERmLCihLo-bUm-zInNn26N9LZCwjMOyQc_-hwaaD3qqPaIQGvc9_rFRbqf4lVCDPbVK0fA7ouxQ_bZ5e7_43cnyBTL_GbEaHHvJHVHe2NmirAqtGVyEu_rwsbJFwmnLiioIOid/s1600/p_101577063+Better+hg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaBtUqs1ERmLCihLo-bUm-zInNn26N9LZCwjMOyQc_-hwaaD3qqPaIQGvc9_rFRbqf4lVCDPbVK0fA7ouxQ_bZ5e7_43cnyBTL_GbEaHHvJHVHe2NmirAqtGVyEu_rwsbJFwmnLiioIOid/s320/p_101577063+Better+hg.jpg" width="288" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX6efZbgtIFjp4C0Nm-THL4spj1Lm081avFFustCUH-_8Rp4OjXSsAGQPtDuopRGziJPv4dqO5dyaRQGnwmnQFxJGbHdt9z6NOyT1rR5oayNuU8ay6MTgCctBbjR-X1GRLP4Oip1FJ67l0/s1600/p_BHG152397bhg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX6efZbgtIFjp4C0Nm-THL4spj1Lm081avFFustCUH-_8Rp4OjXSsAGQPtDuopRGziJPv4dqO5dyaRQGnwmnQFxJGbHdt9z6NOyT1rR5oayNuU8ay6MTgCctBbjR-X1GRLP4Oip1FJ67l0/s320/p_BHG152397bhg.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />Dinner parties can stress the budget.  I like to have simple arrangements for the table and that usually involves fresh flowers .  Rather than large bouquets which are tall and obstruct views, think about simple ways to use flowers or leaves in a repetition.<br /><br />Hosta leaves are one of my favourites and I have lots to choose from in my garden.  I love the idea of massing different sizes and shapes of glasses/vases and submerging separate leaves in each one.  <br />The sunflower is a great choice for fall entertaining. If you don't have access to fresh sunflowers, there are realistic looking  artificial ones. The arrangement above works because of the meandering wave and colour variety.

Thursday Tip #6- simple centerpieces

Keep it simple... Dinner parties can stress the budget.  I like to have simple arrangements for the table and that usually involves fresh fl...

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Thursday Tip #5- Use geometry

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/18084/rosettes--living-room-other-metros"><img alt="rosettes living room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/18084_0_8-2697--living-room.jpg" width="272" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444;"><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/living-room">Houzz</a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Most  furniture  is predominantly rectangular.  When you're adding accents it's good to include circular shapes to play against the strong horizontal  and vertical lines. The basket, table, wooden goblet and  medallions work wonderfully with this sofa (which is not as squared off as most).  There's also lots of texture in this room. If you can't count at least five different textures in a space it is probably not that exciting!  You rarely see beige paired with yellow, but doesn't it look fabulous? In case you didn't notice.... spray paint medallions meant for ceiling applications and use them as wall decor. </div></div>

Thursday Tip #5- Use geometry

Houzz Most  furniture  is predominantly rectangular.  When you're adding accents it's good to include circular shapes to play agains...

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Thursday Tip #4- Layering accessories

<div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSXkAhtCJd-0XxSLtZcmpHp_g1XJR83dPddzNwtDYPgVTvWZAiu8Fq8d5SJTFNDu0jXBTbPte9IZdY9S2oPQ6T0kxYcTSjaeNRghLuCSVzK6g2588zKe2tCYabtR2I8F3Iyb2Tb5rHYeeZ/s1600/Laura+martin+Bovard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSXkAhtCJd-0XxSLtZcmpHp_g1XJR83dPddzNwtDYPgVTvWZAiu8Fq8d5SJTFNDu0jXBTbPte9IZdY9S2oPQ6T0kxYcTSjaeNRghLuCSVzK6g2588zKe2tCYabtR2I8F3Iyb2Tb5rHYeeZ/s400/Laura+martin+Bovard.jpg" width="268" /></a></div><small><a href="http://www.lmbinteriors.com/portfolio.html">Laura Martin Bovard</a></small><br /><br /><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">What do you have in your house that your friends don't have? What personal touches make your house into a home?  Accessories may be small but they have a big punch in decor. This is an area where you should strive for personality plus.  Choose things that mean something to you or your family, and then combine them  to make an interesting grouping. Forget about spreading things out along the top of a cabinet or mantle- group, group, group. </span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Why does this vignette work? </span></div><ul style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: small;">the  colour tones are very similar</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">there's  a variety of objects, textures, shapes and sizes (love the sphere)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">the objects are layered forcing you to look through to the back (providing a visual journey)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">the art work is overlapped , but you can still see each piece</span></li><li><span style="font-size: small;">the format of the vignette is a classic v shape with the height at the edges and the lowest point near the middle</span></li></ul><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><small>  </small></div></div>

Thursday Tip #4- Layering accessories

Laura Martin Bovard What do you have in your house that your friends don't have? What personal touches make your house into a home?  Acc...

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Thursday Tip # 3- Destination walls

<div style="text-align: center;"> What do these rooms have in common?</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/89230/Modern-Classic-contemporary-entry-san-francisco"><img alt="Modern Classic contemporary entry" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/89230_0_8-6604-contemporary-entry.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/entry" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/4379/Jona-Collins" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Jona Collins</a></small></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/22779/highland-park-contemporary-dining-room-chicago"><img alt="highland park contemporary dining room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/22779_0_8-5390-contemporary-dining-room.jpg" width="309" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/1711/PowellKleinschmidt-Inc" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Powell/Kleinschmidt, Inc.</a></small></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/45373/Woodside-Residence-contemporary-living-room-san-francisco"><img alt="Woodside Residence contemporary living room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/45373_0_8-7048-contemporary-living-room.jpg" width="262" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/living-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/5182/Fiorella-Design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Fiorella Design</a></small></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/84272/HALL-modern-hall-other-metros"><img alt="HALL modern hall" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/84272_0_8-0499-modern-hall.jpg" width="277" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/modern/hall" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/11079/Elad-Gonen--Zeev-Beech" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Elad Gonen & Zeev Beech</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">All  of the walls featured are small  "destination walls" which you walk toward.  The darker colour draws the eye and helps to visually draw you toward them. They also serve to showcase the furniture that is in front of them.  Do you have a destination wall in your house that would like a shot of colour to help anchor it? Look at the end of hallways or in long narrow rooms.</span></small></div></div>

Thursday Tip # 3- Destination walls

 What do these rooms have in common? Jona Collins Powell/Kleinschmidt, Inc. Fiorella Design Elad Gonen & Zeev Beech All  of the wall...

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Thursday Tip #2

<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/101475/Caudill-Lane-modern-hall-austin"><img alt="Caudill Lane modern hall" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/101475_0_8-5024-modern-hall.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/modern/hall" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/11976/Webber--Studio-Architects" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Webber + Studio, Architects</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small><b><span style="font-size: small;">Use accessories to carry colour</span></b></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><b><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">The vibrant yellow green in the artwork in this hallway is repeated again in the pillow in the bedroom. A darker green appears in the art work above the bed.  When walking down the hallway your eye pops from the artwork into the adjoining room  which is seen at a distance.  This causes visual movement from one room to the next.  A small thing but very effective for connecting one room with the next. Never underestimate the power of accessories to improve every room in your house. Have you carried colour from one room to another in your home? </span></small><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></small><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;">Check back for my next post on Colour Continuity when creating a colour scheme. </span></small></div><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span>  </small></div>

Thursday Tip #2

Webber + Studio, Architects Use accessories to carry colour   The vibrant yellow green in the artwork in this hallway is repeated again in ...

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Thursday Tip -Fall is in the air

<div style="text-align: left;">Many people focus on new beginnings in January, but mine are always prompted by the arrival of September.  I put it down to my past career as a teacher when September was the month of planning and new possibilities.<br /><br />I just returned from a month in Europe and my mind is agog with all the possible posts I could write and it's hard to select the best idea .  When I feel like this I have to do something to focus my thoughts. Rather than choosing one topic  I've decided to go broader.  I'm beginning a new post focus which I'm calling <b>Thursday Tips</b>.  Each Thursday I will feature one image and several simple ideas that could be easily translated into your home decor. </div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/76411/buffet-table-inspiration-set-1--entry-other-metros"><br /></a><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/76411/buffet-table-inspiration-set-1--entry-other-metros"><img alt="buffet table inspiration set 1 entry" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/76411_0_8-7670--entry.jpg" width="323" /></a><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/76411/buffet-table-inspiration-set-1--entry-other-metros"></a><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/76411/buffet-table-inspiration-set-1--entry-other-metros"><small></small></a><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/entry" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Houzz</a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Orange gaining favour in 2012</b> </span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">The colour forecasts for 2012 are just beginning to appear and orange seems to be in favour.  Not the toned "dirty" oranges of past years, but a fresher variety that brings warmth and thoughts of  a fresh autumn day.</span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Layering in Decor </b></span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">While this orange chair is very striking, you don't need  to make such a large purchase to get an up to date look.  The tulips in the vase above are lovely in spring, but think about   Chinese Lanterns to bring a blast of  fall orange. Twigs and branches in the arrangement add structural elements and height which helps focus your attention . Stacking two mirrors of different heights on a console table provides a backdrop for your arrangement and also provides  interesting layers.Always think layers when you are decorating.</span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNO7fMkS2JijnDoNMTZbGNv2T-ybPz6p7mBy5IPfvb50pikGY9z5mtzTiCvqjoA-IbDpqPySoaBIpXOPvLG_nqOBugo3r2d3Yzl5ULHXlsW4wSi4k0RY9egUQOXnmnz5-jEM8hEv7QaSGs/s1600/JFMY7B7C9RZCGT8EZCMY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNO7fMkS2JijnDoNMTZbGNv2T-ybPz6p7mBy5IPfvb50pikGY9z5mtzTiCvqjoA-IbDpqPySoaBIpXOPvLG_nqOBugo3r2d3Yzl5ULHXlsW4wSi4k0RY9egUQOXnmnz5-jEM8hEv7QaSGs/s1600/JFMY7B7C9RZCGT8EZCMY.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gifts.com/products/LAMPS-PLUS/Surya-Tristen-Gray-Plum-Throw-Blanket?p=1488:R6622:259"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> source</span></small></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">If you have a neutral chair, an orange throw draped over the back or arm would add just the right amount of colour.</span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavzh9BTs3EcbKf1_Qmh3DXaRW_kNHKjRwT4c3ftstTozYM34JGhtzYw_HK9HRAQ5U5BDTUFD1MkxaUYpGqTPTTM85WMG3vDmZ4t9g_n1Z1YMSaeghZjf_yYpaQRhHCNxFyyuidgfHyAdL/s1600/baskets-crateandbarrel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavzh9BTs3EcbKf1_Qmh3DXaRW_kNHKjRwT4c3ftstTozYM34JGhtzYw_HK9HRAQ5U5BDTUFD1MkxaUYpGqTPTTM85WMG3vDmZ4t9g_n1Z1YMSaeghZjf_yYpaQRhHCNxFyyuidgfHyAdL/s320/baskets-crateandbarrel.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Crate and Barrel </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIm016FBreUb8PslFYh9eKXOOag1rtc0AeZ6EcHdSrLGjugviLvFGmcARCCVFpm8PV1U8Qb7tifjYMGsa8Td5hltVRlrliiDMS-pkKpLy8x39vN7tsahlUAfiHBbFYdg28_UBRNH_g-n55/s1600/cushions-horchow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIm016FBreUb8PslFYh9eKXOOag1rtc0AeZ6EcHdSrLGjugviLvFGmcARCCVFpm8PV1U8Qb7tifjYMGsa8Td5hltVRlrliiDMS-pkKpLy8x39vN7tsahlUAfiHBbFYdg28_UBRNH_g-n55/s320/cushions-horchow.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.horchow.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=cprod70100026&eItemId=cprod70100026&cmCat=search&searchType=MAIN&parentId=&icid=&rte=%252Fsearch.jhtml%253FN%253D0%2526Ntt%253Dorange%252Bdecor%2526_requestid%253D17938">source</a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">When I'm adding in colour accents in this way I usually think in threes and using varying proportions  of the colour.  Think about small, medium and larger sized accessories and you can't go wrong. Variety is another key word in decorating.  Find your varying sizes in pillows, boxes or canvas totes,  a piece of artwork or large pillar candles.  <a href="http://www.styleathome.com/decorating-and-design/colour/10-terrific-tangerine-tinted-finds/a/36047/7">Style at Home </a>offers 10 ideas for adding Tangerine to your decor. </span></small><br /><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;">What's your favourite accent colour? </span> </small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/76411/buffet-table-inspiration-set-1--entry-other-metros"><br /></a><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small></div></div>

Thursday Tip -Fall is in the air

Many people focus on new beginnings in January, but mine are always prompted by the arrival of September.  I put it down to my past career a...

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