Home Blog

6 Eco-friendly Home Renovation Ideas

Eco-friendly practice is the next big thing in construction – and for good reason. Scientists suggest that we only have the next 12 years to turn around our climate change issues before they become irreversible, so many homeowners turn to sustainable renovation to take part in turning their homes into eco-friendly ones.

Eco-friendly renovations are suitable for all types of housing in Singapore, including landed properties and apartment complexes. However, you may need to check with your local housing association for the proper permits and legal requirements before you renovate.

Here are 6 eco-friendly home renovation ideas that will turn your abode into a green home, saving the environment and improving your quality of life at the same time!

1.  Install Solar Panels

 

Solar panels are the basic, but essential, additions that you can renovate into your home to make it more sustainable and eco-friendly. If you live in an area that has a lot of natural sunlight throughout the day, then you may benefit from harnessing solar energy to power your home. Solar panels cut down on electrical energy consumption, and keep your home functional.

Alternatively, areas without ample sunlight can harness energy from other sources such as wind and water. Depending on the most efficient system in your area, you may need to contact a local contractor to discuss how to go about installing alternative energy systems in your home.

2.  Keep an Indoor Garden

Homeowners with a green thumb can immerse themselves in an indoor garden of their own care and maintenance. An indoor garden is not only aesthetically pleasing, it is also helpful in purifying the air quality in the home. Air purifying plants, like the low maintenance pothos varieties, help filter out the CO2 in the air, as well as a few pollutants.

There are trendy indoor gardens now that make use of a wall for a vertical type of garden that serves as both a garden and a wall design. However, if you’re looking for something a little more low maintenance and impermanent, you can create a space for a horizontal garden instead with a little renovation to help integrate nature into your home.

3.  Get Breeze Block Partitions

Breezeblocks were a hit decades ago for their lace-like design as well as their capacity to allow air to flow through partitions and walls made from the breeze blocks. Over the years, breeze blocks fell out of fashion in the construction and design industry as the new trends of solid and glass partitions heightened.

In recent years, however, breeze blocks are making a return as homes become more eco-friendly. Breezeblocks lessen the need for air circulation systems that may require more electricity, and allow ample airflow to circulate around the house unhindered by partitions. Modern breeze blocks have been built to concentrate cool air into the home as well.

4.  Use Reclaimed and Sustainable Materials

Sometimes, the renovation isn’t what needs to be changed but the materials used in the construction project can be made sustainable depending on the source of the materials used. Reclaimed materials, like wood planks and steel frames, can be used to accent and support renovations in your home in an upcycling way.

Sustainable materials, like bamboo and cork, replenish easily and can be used in a plethora of designs. By using bamboo instead of wood, you decrease the number of trees that need to be cut down and instead rely on bamboo that has a surprisingly fast growth rate compared to other plants. The texture is similar to the real thing too!

5.  Insulate for the Weather

Whether you live in hot weather or cold climates, weather plays a huge part in why we need the protection of our homes. Shelter is one of the most basic needs and is what separates us from the harsh elements of nature.

Insulate your home for the weather to minimize your use of air conditioning during hot days, and heaters during winter months. Insulation is typically done around the walls and in the roof and can shield you from the extreme temperatures outside.

6.  Install Smart Home Assistants

Finally, smart home assistants may seem like the opposite of nature, but they are made sustainable when they are installed with eco-saving systems. Installing a smart home assistant to help you keep track of your energy consumption, water consumption, and to optimize your ecological footprint is a good way to make your home environmentally friendly.

Smart home assistants also help reduce the instances where you forget to shut off devices and appliances by setting a timer for these items and can send you reports on how to minimize your carbon footprint through proper waste management reminders, optimizing home functions, and going on energy-saving mode to save power.

Pictures have been taken from www.pexels.com
https://www.pexels.com/photo/glass-box-with-tropical-plants-in-modern-studio-6207951/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/alternative-alternative-energy-clouds-eco-energy-433308/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/green-leaved-plants-2987081/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/interior-of-bathroom-with-decorative-partition-7031832/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/contemporary-country-house-facade-in-winter-7031406/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/wood-fashion-man-woman-4790264/

Wallpaper for a Children’s Room: Types and Features to Look Out For

Cosmosis- a great theme for designing a children's room

A children’s room plays an important role in their development. Since children spend a lot of time in their room, it is important to ensure the room is perfect for their comfort and well-being. The most popular option for the walls of children’s rooms today is wallpaper. There are so many types available today, and as such, it may be difficult for parents to select the best option. This article, therefore, comes in handy in guiding you to select the best wallpaper for your child’s room.

Wallpaper varieties for the nursery

As we mentioned in the introduction, selecting wallpaper for a child’s room can be difficult, particularly considering the many types available today. However, choosing wallpaper for a child’s room is not as difficult as it sounds. The main aspect to pay attention to is the friendliness of the wallpaper material to the child’s health. This article, however, brings you other factors you need to look at.

Consider these popular wallpaper types for children’s rooms:

Paper wallpaper

Paper wallpaper is a popular option, especially for nurseries, particularly due to their environmental-friendliness and safety. You, however, need to ensure that the paper wallpaper does not contain harmful dyes. The advantages of this wallpaper include:

  • The material can ‘breathe’ and it does not emit toxins in case of fire;
  • Large selection of colors to choose from;
  • Affordable.
Paper wallpapers present a stylish and budget solution in the design of a children’s room

However, paper wallpaper has its disadvantages, the main being its ease of damage and short life span.

Non-woven wallpaper

Non-woven is a well-known material for the manufacture of wallpaper. From non-woven, such a base is covered with vinyl. For children’s rooms, however, it is recommended to buy wallpaper with a perforated outer layer.

Non-woven wallpaper in the nursery has several benefits, including:

  • A large assortment;
  • Easy to stick to the wall;
  • Easy to maintain as it can be washed;
  • Allows the walls to breathe;
  • Is affordable.
Non-woven wallpaper for a kids’ room

The main limitation of non-woven wallpaper lies with its top cover, vinyl. The danger is particularly high for a foamed version, as a child can take it off ingest it, causing harm to the child as the material contains toxins. Therefore, when choosing non-woven wallpaper for a child’s room, it is important to study in detail the composition of the upper layer.

Vinyl wallpaper in the nursery

Vinyl-coated wallpapers are used for different rooms, including children’s rooms. This wallpaper consists of two layers – a vinyl and a paper or non-woven layer. The advantages of vinyl wallpaper are:

  • A wide selection of colors and textures;
  • Easy pasting process;
  • Easy to level the base;
  • Long-lasting due to resistance to minor damage and color maintenance.
Vinyl wall-paper in a nursery

The main disadvantages of vinyl wallpaper are the toxicity of the material and low quality, which causes quick damage.

3D wallpaper for the nursery

Wallpapers with 3D effects are fast gaining ground in the decoration of nurseries. Three-dimensional wallpapers come in multiple varieties, including standard, panoramic, LED, and wallpaper for painting.

The major advantages of 3D wallpaper include:

  • Resistance to wear;
  • Durability;
  • Environmental friendliness;
  • Fire safety (if coated with a special primer);
  • Easy maintenance (Can be washed without risk of damage).

However, finishing a child’s room with 3D wallpaper has its drawbacks, including:

  • Complex installation;
  • Expensive.

Photo wallpaper

The best kind of photo wallpaper for a nursery is a mural. These are often customized to the needs of the child. Abstract and thematic photo wallpapers are also quite trendy.

Wall mural with a world map in a nursery interior

The main advantage of this wallpaper option is the ability to choose murals with pictures that speak to the interests and hobbies of the child. For young kids, murals that depict fairy tales and cartoons are the most appropriate, whereas murals of maps, space, sports, nature, and other activities that interest the child do the trick. While parents often decide on the murals to use, it is advisable to consult the child on the kind of murals he/she would like in their bedroom.

The other major advantages of photo wallpaper are:

  • Easy to customize;
  • Photo wallpapers are quite affordable, particularly those with a paper base.

The main disadvantage of photo wallpaper is that they absorb odors, dust and have a short-lived lifespan. However, the short lifespan is also an advantage, as experts recommend changing the murals after two or so years, to match the development progress of the child.

Other types of wallpaper for decorating a child’s room

In addition to the main types discussed above, other types of wallpaper that are often used include:

  • Cullet wallpaper: This is an environmentally friendly option that resists combustion and has many other advantages. However, they are mostly used in public spaces since they are not very attractive and more expensive than other types;

    Cullets for children’s rooms can be painted in any shade
  • Liquid wallpaper: This is a variant of decorative plaster that contains mineral and plant fibers.It is a uniform surface without seams. It is a convenient option for children’s rooms since the posters, stickers, and drawings boost their creativity;

    A liquid wallpaper imitating a football field is an excellent solution for a children’s room
  • Cork wallpaper: This wallpaper consists of a paper base, with a top coating of cork oak bark. Its pros include heat and sound insulation and friendly to people with allergies. The disadvantages, however, include the limited range of colors and high cost.
  • Velour wallpaper: This is a beautiful and original option. The downside of using it in a nursery is the ease of the material to catch dust and its low durability.
  • Textile wallpaper for children: They have many positive properties, the main being environmental friendliness, and a beautiful appearance. However, textile wallpapers have a short lifespan and are too expensive. Additionally, installing the wallpaper on the wall is extremely costly.

The effect of the color scheme on the child

Color has a huge impact on the development of the child, so it is important to choose the right color scheme for the room where the child spends the most time. Color has a direct effect on the emotional state and the nervous system of the child.

It is scientifically proven that some colors and their combinations have a positive effect on the mood and state of the child. Others, on the contrary, can inhibit the development of children and ruin their peace. It is important to factor in these factors when choosing a color scheme for the wallpaper of a child’s room.

The blue color of the wallpaper calms a baby

Another important to consider when choosing wallpaper for a child’s room is that the effect of colors on children varies according to their age. Depending on the age of the child, different color choices apply, as follows:

  • 0-3 years: During this stage, the child’s room needs soft, pastel combinations. The color should be calm, devoid of bright tones. Such colors create a harmonious atmosphere that positively impacts the child;
  • 3-6 years: At this age, you can start adding vibrant colors to the bedroom, including fairy-tale or cartoon characters. However, be cautious not to go overboard. Many bright accents, chaotic geometry, and sharp corners cause anxiety and disturb the peace of children;
Bright wallpaper in a child’s room
  • 6-9 years old: This stage often comes with new interests and experiences. Parents can help children to discover their interests by exposing them to materials such as illustrations of the universe or a map of the world. Bright colors can also be used as they have an energizing effect on children;

    Interactive wallpaper for exploring the animal world
  • 9-12 years old: This is a period of self-awareness. At this stage, it is important to differentiate the décor according to the sex of the child. It is also important to consult children on their décor preferences;
  • 12 years and older: At this stage, the child is in adolescence and, therefore, capable of making many decisions. Often, rooms for children at this stage feature futuristic drawings, murals and 3D wallpapers.
Wallpaper as used in a teenager’s room

In addition to the age-dependent rules, wallpaper for children’s rooms should also be selected guided by the personality of the child. Warm colors work best for calm children, especially if accentuated by minor elements of bright patterns. Bright colors, on the contrary, will increase the activity of children. Light and cold tones help calm down hyperactive children.

Research shows that:

  • Peach blossoms create an atmosphere of friendliness and tranquility;
  • The yellow wallpaper in the nursery boosts children’s mental activity;
Yellow wallpaper in the nursery
  • Red causes excessive agitation that can turn into aggression for hyperactive children.

Essentially, choosing the wallpaper for the nursery is an important task, and the responsibility falls on the parents. However, as children advance towards puberty, it is important that they play an active role in selecting décor for their rooms.

Wallpaper options for girls

A girl’s room often requires unique décor, regardless of the girl’s age. In most scenarios, pink is the go-to color. However, as the girl gets older, brighter colors are acceptable. Traditional colors for girls’ rooms have warm, light shades, which range from red to pink, lime, peach, lavender, and mint.

Popular drawings for girls’ room wallpapers include fairies, princesses, flowers and other objects the girl may fancy. While these picture wallpapers appear beautiful, it is important to minimize the brightness of the wallpaper.

Photo wallpaper with a picture of a princess makes for the perfect decoration of a young girls’ bedroom

As girls grow older, they outgrow cartoons. Therefore, parents can choose more age-appropriate picture wallpapers, such as photo murals of cities and graffiti and 3D-effect wallpaper. The room should be fashionable and reflect the personality and age of the child.

Popular themes for girls’ wallpapers are:

  • Floral motifs: Colorful flowers and house plants beautifully decorate girls’ rooms;
Wallpaper with floral motifs in the interior of a children’s room
  • Princess illustrations: Wallpaper with drawings of princesses bring the fairy tales of young girls to life;

    Wall mural depicting fairytale princesses

Fairy-tale and cartoon characters: Children’s favorite cartoon heroes are important to them. As such, kids love owning items with drawings of their favorite cartoon characters, from clothes to notebooks and backpacks. The cartoon characters range from ponies to unicorns, super-heroes, and fairies. Bringing cartoon characters into your child’s bedroom will, therefore, excite him/her.

  • Fauna: Pictures and illustrations of animals not only decorate the walls but also expand the child’s perception of the world. A wallpaper depicting birds or butterflies, for instance, looks beautiful in a nursery.

Theme wallpaper in a boy’s room

The boy’s room, aside from serving as a bedroom, is a place for active games, meeting friends, studying, and relaxation. The most popular color schemes for boys’ rooms are blue and gray, which are known for creating calmness. Some combinations, such as blue with green, white, sand, and gray with brown or orange are quite popular. However, you can go with any color or color combination that you prefer, as long as the result is fit for a boy.

Favorite themes for wallpapers for boys are:

    • Cars:
Wallpaper with cars results in an original design of a boy’s room

Boys especially love cars, so the range of wallpaper depicting cars is quite varied. You can also consider wallpaper with designs of motorcycles, airplanes, or trains;

  • Sports theme: Boys are drawn to sports from an early age. Installing a sports-themed wallpaper will not only excite the boy but probably also influence him to take up sports as an activity;
  • Marine décor: Depictions of fish and other sea life have a calming effect. Wallpaper showing marine life is, therefore, especially suited for the room of a hyperactive boy, as it will help him calm down;
Nautical-style kids room
  • Adventure depictions: Wallpaper depicting pirates, quests, treasure hunts, and other forms of adventure will especially please boys, while also encouraging them to be adventurous;
  • Superheroes: Boys love superheroes, as well as depictions of their favorite TV or movie characters, including robots and fairy tale characters;
  • Space: Many guys love the image of the universe, from the sky to planets, rockets, and the solar system.Such wallpapers, when used in a boy’s nursery also help them develop an interest in learning about the solar system and space in general.
Cosmosis- a great theme for designing a children’s room

While these ideas are all interesting, it is important to restrict yourself to one, so you do not overload the room with decor.

Ideas for choosing wallpapers for a shared children’s room

One of the most difficult decisions for parents lies in the décor of a bedroom that is shared by two or more children, especially if those children are of different sexes. The challenge arises because parents have to balance the décor in favor of each child, even if the children are of different sexes.

Neutral room design fit fora a room shared by a boy and girl

It’s a little easier to choose the finish for a room shared by a boy and girl if the age difference is minor and the kids have shared interests. Wall décor, such as wallpaper, can help to create two separate functional zones, such as the bedroom and playing area or sleeping area for a boy and girl.

Wallpaper is a great way to zone the space in a shared bedroom

Middle-aged children already want to own their space, even if it is not private. Wallpaper is an excellent option to separate the space for a boy and girl in a shared bedroom, particularly if the wallpaper is in different colors for each zone. In addition, the texture and patterns are different for each zone. There are multiple wallpaper options that serve this purpose. What is more, you can even purchase a special series of wallpapers that are specifically meant for zoning. An example of such wallpaper is one that has strips on one end, to be used in a boy’s room, while the other end has polka dots, suiting a girl’s room.

Wallpaper for a teenager’s room

Adolescence comes with self-discovery. As such, teenagers start discovering their tastes and preferences. Giving your child the opportunity to decorate their room will help them with their self-discovery. However, you should not leave all the design decisions to the child, as your guidance as a parent is important.

A stylish and original wallpaper for a teenager’s room

Trendy options in the decoration of teenagers’ rooms include the use of unique photo wallpaper and 3D wallpaper, depicting cities, cars, nature, sports, science, etc. Make sure to leave a part of the wall blank and clean, for the child to hang up posters, awards, crafts, and stickers.

Criteria for choosing nursery wallpaper

When choosing wallpaper in a nursery, the following criteria should be considered:

  • Design decision: When buying wallpaper for a child’s room, consider factors such as the gender of the child, their age, and interests. Also remember that the wallpaper has to be in harmony with the furniture, the décor, and the general style of the room.
    • The quality of the wallpaper material: The variety of wallpaper is endless. While it is important to consider factors such as the texture and patterns, pay attention to the quality of the material. Also, be sure to check the friendliness of the material to the health and environment;
    • Color scheme: While many people, including children, love vibrant colors, you should consider other options too. With the tips provided above, such as the age suitability of different colors and the effects of different colors, you can go ahead and make a decision. You can make alterations with time, as you find necessary;
Bright wallpaper colors in the interior of a children’s room
  • The input of the child: As this article has started, you should consider the input of the child in choosing wallpaper, from the time the child hits four years. Involving the child is important as the child needs to love their room. After all, they spend a great deal of time there.

Wallpaper for the nursery should be chosen with caution. As stated, there is an endless variety of wallpaper, differing in terms of quality, material, and texture. Each wallpaper type has its pros and cons, which also need to be considered. Color solutions also play an important role, as this article has discussed. It is advisable to choose calm tones with slight bright accents, while taking into account the child’s personality, gender and age. Guiding teenage children to select their wallpaper will excite them, as the room will reflect their interests and be ideal to their needs.

Advanced Type & Applications of Bulletproof Glass

Are you on the hunt for bulletproof glass? Bulletproof glass is being used more often in schools, homes, vehicles, and more each year. Finding the right type of safety glass to suit your specific needs can be challenging, as there are many options to choose from. Before you make a selection, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. Let’s get into it!

Modern Types of Bulletproof Glass:

Surprisingly, there’s more than just one type of bulletproof glass! There are three main types that are used today:

  • Polycarbonate Glass

This type of glass is actually a unique form of plastic! It is 80% lighter than typical glass and absorbs high impact from bullets. It’s stronger than acrylic and more versatile but with that, it comes at a higher cost. Due to its flexibility, this type of bulletproof glass is used for a variety of things including vehicle protection.

  • Acrylic Plastic

Acrylic plastic is often easily confused as glass, as it looks so similar! While it is about 50% lighter than typical commercial glass, it’s still a much heavier option in comparison to polycarbonate glass and sheets of 1 inch or thicker are needed to be deemed bulletproof. With that being said, it’s a more affordable option. You’d typically use this type of bulletproof glass in schools and for commercial security.

  • Glass-Clad Polycarbonate

Glass-clad polycarbonate brought something new to the world of bulletproof glass, acting similarly to laminated paper. Instead of plastic protecting the paper, glass is used on either side of the polycarbonate to provide an extra layer of protection, while avoiding scrapes. The only downside is that this is the thickest option of the three types.

The Right Type and Thickness:

If you’re still unsure about what type of bulletproof glass you’d like to go with, you should consider the thickness. The thickness will determine how secure the glass truly is and therefore the thicker, the better if you’re after the highest resistance and strength. Some types of security glass are able to withstand multiple rounds of bullets from automatic weapons, creating a safer environment.

There are generally 8 levels of thickness you can choose from, up to 3 inches thick. If you’re looking for an option that is thin and more discrete, bullet-resistant glass is a great option. It provides security while minimizing the overall thickness!

Major Applications for Bulletproof Glass:

Bulletproof glass can be used in many situations or places to provide additional security. Some places and uses include:

  • Security windows

Many places such as gas stations and retail stores will often install bullet-resistant glass to ensure their employees feel safe at work. Having this level of protection in place has been known to reduce crime as it does a good job of deterring criminals.

  • Doors in business settings

Bulletproof doors are often used in business settings and provide a secure environment while looking similar to any other glass door. With these doors installed, employees will have peace of mind when they go into work each day.

  • Vehicles of VIPs

Celebrities, politicians and other people of importance have been using bulletproof glass for years when traveling from one place to the next. Ballistic glass is most often used in vehicles to prevent outside attacks, offering the most advantageous protection. This type of glass can be higher in cost but the benefits greatly outweigh the cost when looking for the highest degree of protection!

  • Secure Houses

Despite its name, bulletproof glass can be useful in many situations other than armed violence that could occur in the home. It can be used to protect your home from weather incidents, UV damage, landscaping accidents, vandalism, crime and more! The bottom line is that using this type of glass will keep your house intact.

  • Government offices

With important information stored within government offices, it’s important to keep it secure. Bulletproof glass is the perfect solution, as it lessens the risk of stolen information and other crime.

  • Schools for kids security & safety

The security needs in schools are growing as violence has increased over the years. This type of glass is internationally standardized to protect individuals from rifle bullets and high impact. They’ve been used on school windows and doors. It’s an excellent option for schools, as it will provide the utmost protection for students and teachers.

  • Banks & Financial Institutions

Banks are notorious for armed robberies so the bulletproof glass is essential. It keeps employees safe while once again deterring criminals from attempting to harm others and steal from the bank!

Which Company to Choose When Buying Security Glass:

When choosing a place to purchase security glass, you need to be confident that you will be provided with a glass of the highest quality. Fab Glass and Mirror ensures top-quality bulletproof glass so you can rest easy, knowing you’re safe. Simply place an order online and you’ll find the best bulletproof glass delivered to your doorstep!

Wall mural in the interior

Only a few years ago, the assortment of wall murals was limited. Wall murals were a popular form of wall décor in the 1980s. At the time, wall murals typically featured flaunted waterfalls, mountains, dense forests, etc. In addition to a limited assortment of photo wallpaper, quality of these murals was quite wanting. Since these wall murals were made of paper, they quickly faded in the sun and quickly accumulated dirt, which was difficult to clean off. Today manufacturers offer completely different types of photo wallpaper for decorating the interior. Using innovative technologies, manufacturers are able to depict any picture on high-quality and durable materials.

What is photo wallpaper?

Today, wall murals are again at the peak of popularity. This popularity has been driven by the large selection and wide possibilities of wall murals that are now available. The assortment of photo wallpaper is so wide that you can choose different options for any room of your house, from reproductions of famous paintings to photo sights, abstract patterns and stylish creative drawings.What’s more, thanks to high-quality paints and a stronger basis, wall murals are now more long-lasting and are easier to clean.

To begin, we will define the term ‘mural’. It is quite simple. A wall mural features a paper canvas that is used as a wall decoration. Using the photographic method of image transfer, various paintings and patterns are placed on the canvas, resulting in photo wallpaper.

This variety of photo wallpaper in the interior has emerged quite recently, fueled by technology. Advanced manufacturing techniques have made it possible to use vinyl as the basis for the canvas. Further, high-quality typewriters that accurately convey the hue and contours of images on canvases have made wall murals a reality.

Advantages and disadvantages of photo wallpaper

Wall murals have both advantages and disadvantages. The positive qualities of wall murals include:

  1. Uniqueness: You can easily buy customized wall murals at affordable prices. With a customized mural, your interior will no doubt be unique.
  2. You can print any photo you like on the canvas, thereby creating an individualized wall mural.
  3. Ability to beautifully change the atmosphere of the room: Photos of mountains, forests or large cities present an entirely different atmosphere. However, with the help of photo wallpaper you can choose exactly what mood to give to each separate room.
  4. Functional properties: Many modern wall murals are resistant to sunlight, high humidity and mechanical damage.

The disadvantages of photo wallpaper include:

  1. The high cost: Of course, you can always find photo wallpaper at a low price. However, the material used to make such models is weak and will get damaged pretty fast. If you want a more durable option, you will have to part with more money. Additionally, since photo wallpaper is highly durable and can last several years. You need to choose the image of the wallpaper cautiously.
  • The need to think through the image in detail: While there are multiple variations of ordinary wallpaper, this type of wallpaper can be quite limiting. However, with photo wallpaper, limitations do not exist since there are endless ideas you could try.

  • The difficulty of installation: It can sometimes be difficult to install photo wallpaper for the best view.

Types of photo wallpaper

Properly-selected murals help complement and bring out the beauty of the style of interior design. Thanks to a wide range of options, photo wallpaper is universal and suitable for any style of interior design, from the loft style and to the classic style, Provence, Art Nouveau, the Scandinavian style of interior and more.

You just need to ensure your selected photo wallpaper fits into the design of the room. There are various brands and manufacturers offering high-quality photo wallpaper.

The foremost feature you need to consider is the type of material used to make the wallpaper. Based on the type of material used to manufacture photo wallpaper, the following types stand out:

Paper mural

This is the most budget and environmentally friendly option, no wonder it is widely popular. However, using paper photo wallpaper in the interior comes with the disadvantage that it is not durable and is easily damaged by sunlight and humidity. However, despite these weaknesses of photo wallpaper, there are multiple reasons to choose paper murals, including:

  1. Friendly to the environment and health of users: This quality renders photo wallpaper versatile. Since the wallpaper does not cause allergies or emit harmful chemicals, it is suitable for use even in a child’s room.
  2. Quick and simple installation process.
  3. Affordable cost.
  4. Universality: Although paper wallpaper should not be used unless in the bathroom due to the abundance of moisture, it can be used in pretty much any other space around the house. In some rooms like the kitchen or hallway, you can opt for paper wallpaper with a special protective coating. For the rest of the house, you are free to use ordinary photo wallpaper.

With proper maintenance, paper photo wallpaper can last you up to seven years, making it perfect for those seeking medium-term home design solutions.

Vinyl wall mural

Vinyl wall murals are undeniably the most popular photo wallpapers today. The appreciation for vinyl wallpaper has been driven by its beauty and the following advantages of the material;

  • Strength;
  • Simplicity;
  • Durability;
  • The ability of the wallpaper to hide small cracks and bumps on the surface of the wall;
  • The ability of the wallpaper to maintain its beauty for even a decade;
  • It offers a more diverse range of images to choose from. Additionally, unlike many other wallpaper types, it is possible to sketch whatever image you want on vinyl wallpaper;
  • Universality: Photo wallpaper can be used in any room in the house, from the kitchen to the living room, bedroom, corridor, and any other space.

Textile mural

This is the costliest type of photo wallpaper. The main advantage of this finish is the environmental friendliness of the material. With a textile mural, the image of your liking is applied to silk, linen, canvas or viscose textiles. It is, therefore, the use of these textiles that drives up the cost of textile photo wallpaper. However, you need to keep in mind that such photo wallpaper can last 15-20 years. These wallpaper types are also easy to maintain and look uniquely stunning, making them a worthy investment.

Non-woven photo wallpaper

h

Non-woven photo wallpaper is slightly more affordable than textile photo wallpaper.Regardless, the price of this wallpaper type is still considerably high. The use of non-woven fabric as the basis for photo wallpaper has multiple benefits, as outlined below:

  1. Easy to install: You can paste the wallpaper based on non-woven material yourself. This is because glue exclusively needs to be applied to the wall. After that, you just need to stick the canvas onto the wall and level it.
  2. Conceals most defects that may be on the surface of the wall.
  3. Non-woven photo wallpaper can be cleaned using wet cleaning methods.
  4. Non-woven murals provide good air circulation.

Self-adhesive wallpaper

Self-adhesive murals are the best option for those who want to install wallpaper on their own. However, self-adhesive wallpaper is discouraged for uneven walls. Therefore, before installing self-adhesive wallpaper, you ought to ensure the wall is smooth and devoid of defects such as bumps or cracks.

Tip: Avoid using self-adhesive murals on high and wide walls. Installing wallpaper on such a wall by yourself will take up a lot of time and effort. In addition, even the smallest defect on the surface of the wall will give a poor result.

Therefore, it is clear that the use of self-adhesive wallpaper is best restricted to small walls or individual inserts (such as niches and partitions) of interior doors .

Photo wallpaper in the interior of the home

Wall murals are not just a way to decorate a room. They perform many more functions, as we explain detail below:

  1. Highlighting the accent wall: Photo wallpaper enables you to zone any space. You can do the zoning by simply attaching the wallpaper on the wall of choice. This technique is especially useful in one-room or studio apartments, enabling you to distinctly separate different zones, for example, the kitchen and dining room or living room and bedroom.

  • Changing the height of the ceiling: Some images on photo wallpaper allow for certain illusions with the height of the ceiling. For example, by attaching wallpaper with an image of tall trees or a receding road, the ceiling will look higher than it actually is. Essentially, wallpapers with images of elongated objects give the illusion of a higher ceiling.
  • Room extension: Wall murals work not only as a way to stretch ceilings, but also as a technique for expanding walls. If you wish to expand the walls in order to create the illusion of a wider room, we recommend wallpapers with pictures of small streets, marine themes, or open spaces like beaches or fields.

  • Masking defects on the surface of the wall: Most types of photo wallpaper allow you to perfectly conceal defects on the wall. The result is even better if you use photo wallpaper with lots of small details as this technique allows you to hide all cracks and chips on the wall surface.
  • Decorating openings and blank walls: Blank walls are those that are left unused in the room. To easily give them a stylish look, you can use murals. An example on how you can do this is perfectly illustrated in the photo below.
  •  

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is wall-mural-026.jpg

Tip:You can also use murals with images mimicking brickwork, canvas, decorative plaster, etc. to hide flaws on the wall.

Now let’s figure out what kind of photo wallpaper to use for each particular room in the home, as we explain in the following section.

Living room

The living room is the main room in any home. It is here that the whole family gathers to relax after a hard day, watch a movie, play board games or engage in any other activities the family members enjoy. The living room also makes it possible for friends and relatives to visit, talk, and have fun together. For these reasons, it is important you perfect the design and décor of the living room.

Wall murals in the living room can be used in multiple variations. However, the most popular wall murals are natural motifs. Marine themes, floral images, photographs of mountains or forests and other natural motifs give the living room a cozy and stylish look. For a room in oriental style, you can consider murals with appropriate pictures, for instance, the blossoming sakura. For a laconic hi-tech, murals depicting bamboo thickets or a green meadow do the trick. Basically, the image on the mural should align with the style of design of the room.

If you want to visually expand the space of the living room, use panoramic murals. Photos of mega-cities like London, New York, or Tokyo, with their dazzling evening lights, are just perfect for high-tech or loft rooms.

Bedroom

The bedroom is the place where people recover, relax, or sleep after a long day. However, bedrooms are rarely sufficiently spacious. Therefore, murals are an especially welcome idea since with their help you can visually enlarge the room, thereby creating a friendlier atmosphere.

The accent wall is important in the bedroom and is often located directly behind the head of the bed. Highlighting this area with a more contrasting finish compared to other walls results in a more stylish interior. Just look at all of these bedroom designs that make use of a wallpaper accent wall below:

Kitchen

Only a few decades ago, wall murals were used everywhere but the kitchen. As we mentioned earlier, paper wall murals should not be used in the kitchen as they are easily damaged by the moisture. You also ought to keep in mind that the kitchen is also a cooking area and as such, has steam and different odors from cooking food, which are likely to damage wallpaper. Also, grease, oil and other substances can easily get on the wallpaper surface, causing destruction.

However, it is now possible to use specific models of wallpaper in the kitchen, since manufacturers now offer high-quality photo murals that are able to adequately withstand elevated temperatures, humidity, and dirt.

Due to these developments, wall murals are now popular in kitchens. In addition to the aesthetics,wall murals can help zone the space, especially in single-room apartments or studios where space zoning is necessary. You can, for instance, use wall murals to separate the cooking area from the dining room.

Tip: For the kitchen, consider wall murals that portray dining experiences. For instance, you can go for murals with images of restaurants, bars, French bakeries, etc. Such wallpaper looks more fitting and harmonious than wallpaper with images of different themes. For small kitchens, choose wallpaper that can visually expand the space, such as wallpaper with panoramic images or open spaces.

Children’s room

Wall murals are a great solution for children’s rooms. Every child will undoubtedly enjoy a fun and interesting picture on the wall. You can easily find diverse wall mural design options for children’s rooms , guided by the age and interests of the child.

Pay attention to the following factors when selecting wallpaper murals for a child’s room:

  1. Wall mural depicting cartoon characters: Favorite animated characters from children’s fairy tales and cartoon shows will cheer up any young child.
  2. Mural with a map of the world: Studies by child psychologists argue that the image of a world map in a children’s room has a positive effect on the development of logical thinking.
  3. Abstract patterns: Perfect for a baby’s room.

Tip: If you want to choose the perfect wall mural for a teenager’s room, consider their hobbies and interests. The mural can feature any image, from space to automotive themes, animals, plants, favorite superheroes, Disney princesses, etc.

Hallway

The corridor is most often a small area. However, putting up properly- selected murals in a small hallway will help make the narrow area appear more spacious. For the nest results, choose murals with vertical patterns like trees or skyscrapers. Objects arranged in this way visually increase the height of the wall and enlarge the corridor as a whole.

Important!Also remember that the entrance hall is the first room in which guests enter. Create a good first impression by choosing a more neutral image for the photo wallpaper, as such an image will not be too sharp or strain your eyesight. Such a decision will help you set a good mood for yourself and your guests as they enter the home.

Errors to avoid when using photo wallpaper

Many people, after sticking photo wallpaper in the living room, kitchen or bedroom, begin to notice that the finished result does not suit or appeal to them at all. This can be explained by a number of factors:

  1. The image does not match the style of the room: You should not choose an image just because you like it. Remember that the photo has to sync with the style features of each individual room. For instance, for a living room in the style of Provence, a wall mural with oriental motifs or an image of a large metropolis will work wonderfully.
  2. Errors in choosing the shade of wallpaper: Of course, you can play with contrasts and choose brighter murals for a laconic gray or white room, or opt for a neutral image for a room with bright accents. However, you need to note that some colors are categorically incompatible with each other. To choose the color of the wall mural, we recommend that you use a technique called color block, which allows you to choose the right contrasting shade for the walls.
  3. The over-abundance of photo wallpaper: Photo wallpaper is so unique and conspicuous that it should only be limited to a single wall in a room. Avoid gluing photo wallpaper onto all the wallsas you will spoil the interior.
  4. If your room needs to be divided using photo wallpaper, you should install it at the section where you want the separation of space to occur. Therefore, avoid sticking paintings on the border between two different zones within the same room as doing so ruins the zoning.

Tip: The image presented on the photo wallpaper should be made in more or less realistic sizes. Excessively enlarged objects, for example, a blade of grass on the entire wall, look inharmonious and ruin aesthetics.

As you have surely learnt from this article, wall murals are not only beautiful, but also quite difficult to use perfectly. However, customize your photo wallpaper images or select unique pre-made models for the most alluring interior. Also ensure you take into account all our other recommendations. Also ensure that the mural syncs with the rest of the design, furniture and decor. For instance, keep in mind that large pictures on the walls attract attention and for this reason, limit the use of other bright accents of large sizes in the interior. Also, do away with bright bulky furniture and textiles with multi-colored patterns if you choose a wall mural.

<

Choose wallpaper that matches the style of each individual room. For a large room, you can buy wallpaper with large images but in small areas, this technique will only put pressure on your eyesight. For a small room, photo wallpaper with small illustrations is more appropriate.

Despite all these rules and tips, trust your instinct and go with the solutions that feel right for you. Only the result matters.

How to Select the Best Color for Tempered Glass Dining Table?

Homeowners are replacing their traditional dining tables with tempered glass tables. The reason why tempered glass is the favorite option for contemporary home design is, they offer protection to your furniture, they are easy to maintain, they shimmer bringing elegance to your room, and they are easy to customize. This means they can be custom cut into any shape and size, and you have a wide range of color options to choose.

Why colored glass used for dining tables when a colorless glass option is available?

The beauty of having a glass dining table is that they are flexible, and you are allowed to choose among many options in design and colors. The good news is that you do not have to be stuck with colorless glass. You can choose the best color for your tempered glass dining table from the many different shades available. Here are the reasons why colored glass is better than colorless options. Here’s the deep guide to know how to tell if the glass is tempered ( https://www.glassgenius.com/blog/how-to-tell-if-glass-is-tempered/ ).

  1. Easy maintenance

Generally, glass is easy to clean. To keep it sparkling, you only need a glass cleaner and a piece of lint-free cloth. However, you need to note that one has to be thorough while cleaning to ensure that no spots, watermarks, or particles are left behind after cleaning. Stains are easily noticeable on the colorless glass.

With a colored glass dining table, small spots and watermarks will be the least of your problems. The dining table is easily exposed to drinks, oil marks, and other dirt resulting from food spills so using a glass tabletop protector can make you out of this Hussle. Colored glass does not show as much dirt as clear glass does. This will make maintenance easy and keep the table looking presentable until you are through with dinner.

  1. Easy to blend with dining room décor

The colored glass allows you to go all-in when it comes to your interior décor. You can choose a color that blends with the walls of your dining room, fixtures, seats, and even utensils. With a colored glass dining table, the interior design of your home will be even more defined.

  1. They are more attractive

If you choose the best color for a tempered glass dining table, you get the benefit of beauty. Unlike colorless glass, colored glass dining tables can add life and appeal to your dining area. On exposure to natural light, they sparkle. They also shimmer when artificial light is put on, creating a decorative effect in your home.

Depending on your preference, you can choose either opaque-colored glass dining tables or clear ones. Colored glass doesn’t have to lose its transparency. They are also useful if you are looking to control the brightness of your dining area.

What colors are available for a glass dining table?

Here is a list of colors that you can get for your glass dining table.

  1. Blue – A color of royalty

Blue is considered neutral and will go with any color pallet that you have in your home. The fact that it is versatile and can be used in many styles makes it a suitable option for your dining area. The good thing with blue is that it makes a statement and brings about uniqueness without throwing off your color palette.

  1. Make Your Space Pop up with RED

If you are a homeowner working with a minimalist interior, a red glass dining table would be a great pick. It works for both vintage and contemporary home designs. If you are looking to bring a pop of color to your design, you should be looking for this direction. If you have neutral dining room walls, red will be perfect.

  1. Lime green – Soothing vibes of nature

A lime green glass dining table will bring warmth and nature to your space. Lime green, among other warm colors, is considered an appetite stimulant, making it ideal for the dining room. This color also blends with most of the neutral tones; it is playful and adds life to your dining room.

  1. Black – A Glamorous Choice

Black dining tables are what little black dresses are in your wardrobe. Regardless of your interior décor, design, and color palette, black will easily blend in. To make it stand out, you can either use dining chairs of other colors, play with the design, or even have a lighting fixture above it.

  1. White – A fresh and sophisticated feel

White is perfect for a contemporary and modern interior. A white glass dining table will make the room airier and spacious. Also, it creates a fresh and crisp feel. It is versatile, allowing you to use it as a centerpiece amongst other palettes. It is also the best color to bring out a minimalist effect.

Which is the best color for a tempered glass dining table

To choose the best color for a tempered glass dining table, you should consider your interior design. Blue, green, red, white, and black are all ideal for dining room furniture. The trick is to play with different palettes and find one that works best for your room. The best color will vary with different interiors: pick one that blends effortlessly with what you already have.

Glass furniture, and especially dining tables, are gaining popularity. This is a result of the benefits homeowners get from them. They include the ease of maintenance, beauty, the illusion of space, and versatility. Glass dining table comes in black, white, red, yellow, and blue, among many other shades. To get the best-colored dining table, you should consider the color of your walls and other pieces of furniture in your home.

The Latest Trends in Bathroom Design

In many homes, the bathroom is the smallest area. Despite this, the room serves important functions, which cannot occur in any other part of the house. Unlike rooms such as the dining room, the bathroom is an indispensable component of any residential building.

Its small size, however, many times limits creativity. Regardless, with the right approach, you can easily design a bathroom that is not only practical but also appealing visually, with all the elements harmoniously connected.

The main trends in the modern bathroom interior

For many people, every day begins and ends in the bathroom, since it is the area of the home where most people get ready to leave the house or go to bed. You must admit that it is much more pleasant to equip the bathroom so it is cozy, allowing you the most relaxing bath or shower.

The traditional design of the bathroom consists of three important elements – a bath or shower, a sink, and a toilet (if the bathroom was not separated from the bathroom). However, today, the bathroom has more components, including a bidet, a hydro box, a washing machine (sometimes with a dryer), and even a home sauna. The evolution of the bathroom is partly because building contractors are now allocating more space for a bathroom, and, as a result, designers have more space for the realization of daring and non-standard ideas.

Talking of the current trends in the design of the bathroom, the following motives are distinguishable:

  1. The bathroom is a practical area where the layout is thought out to the smallest detail. Plumbing, furniture, and other items should be positioned to allow movement.

Freedom of movement is currently the main criterion for bathroom design

  1. Even if your bathroom has a relatively large area, make sure to utilize tricks that visually increase the space. These range from using many mirrors to installing transparent and glass elements in the room.

  1. While plumbing serves a practical function, today, there are unique variants that also serve as decor. You can easily find non-standard plumbing options that are bound to spruce up your interior.

Original bathroom design

Original bathroom design

  1. Lighting: Multi-level lighting is a common technique in today’s bathrooms, highlighting the interior and helping to visually increase the space.


Diverse bathroom lighting

  1. Any decorative elements in the bathroom should ideally fulfill a practical function too. Leave non-practical décor items like figurines and photo frames for the living room or bedroom.

Modern bathroom fixtures

The color scheme of a modern bathroom

Traditional designs did not pay particular attention to achieving a stylish bathroom. Fortunately, today, designers offer plenty of ideas for bathroom interiors, allowing you to choose the option that is suitable for your particular bathroom. Given the layout of the room and its footage, you can achieve a fashionable, comfortable, and at the same time practical bathroom. The choice of the shade of the walls and furniture in the room will depend mainly on the preferences of the owners of the house. The most popular color options for the bathroom are:

White bathroom: This is a classic version that can visually expand the space and infuse it with a refreshing lightness.

Black: A noble color that is relevant for large spaces.

Red: A bold and original solution for the bathroom. Such a shade will undoubtedly infuse your bathroom with vigor and energy.


Bathroom design in red and black

Yellow and orange: These shades improve the mood and allow you to recharge.

Yellow bathroom design

Brown: It comes in a wide variety of shades, from chocolate to wenge, brick, terracotta, and others.

Bathroom designed in brown

Blue: A soothing color that particularly suits a nautical-style bathroom.


Bathroom decorated in blue

Surface finish

When designing any room in the house or apartment, the selection of decor materials presents an important step. The bathroom was no exception. However, given the high moisture and humidity in the bathroom, the selection of finishing materials should be approached with particular care. Only this way can you create an appealing yet durable bathroom.

Despite the limitation brought on by the high levels of moisture and humidity in the bathroom, there are plenty of suitable décor materials, as manufacturers create more unique products specifically for the bathroom.

Tip: To eliminate moisture in the bathroom, set up good ventilation, both natural and artificial. In these ways, you can significantly increase the durability of the finishing materials.

Wall decoration in the bathroom

There is a large assortment for building bathroom walls today. However, the most popular options are:

Ceramic tile: This is the most popular option, which has a wide range of shades and shapes, from square to rectangular, polygonal, and many others. The main advantage of ceramic tile is that it is resistant to moisture, temperature changes, and mechanical damage. Consequently, with proper installation, it can last more than 30 years. On the other hand, the main disadvantage of tile is the complexity of its installation. To install tiles, you will most likely need to hire the services of a professional, who will carry perform functions such as carrying out measurements, installation of tiles, and grouting.

Decoration of the bathroom with ceramic tiles

Natural stone: The most common options are granite or marble. Of course, natural stone is extremely costly, but its many advantages are worth the high cost. They include:

  • Durability;
  • Resistance to chemical and mechanical damage;
  • Strength;
  • Water-resistance;
  • Attractive appearance.

PVC panels: To decorate your bathroom, you can choose from plain PVC panels and other variant options, such as those with decorative patterns. Some PVC panel models imitate wood, brickwork, marble, and even leather. The main feature of such panels is the simplicity of their installation, as the installation can be done even without the help of professionals. However, you need to be cautious to get all the measurements correctly.

Natural wood: While many people think wood is unsuitable for the bathroom, it, in fact, works very well. Modern processing methods make it possible to use wood even in rooms with high humidity. As a rule, special impregnations and protective varnishes are used in the processing, thereby protecting the wood from the moisture and humidity of the bathroom. However, you also need to be cautious to choose the right type of wood. For the bathroom, beech, cedar, larch, oak, and teak are excellent.

Glass: This material is great for decorating a bathroom in a hi-tech or modern style. You can use monophonic, multi-color panels, or glass plates with printed photos. As for the type of surface, the glass can be:

  • Glossy;
  • Matte;
  • Embossed.

Metal: While metal can be used as a stand-alone material, it is most often installed in combination with wood or stone. For the design of the bathroom, metal sheets coated with zinc or chrome is highly suitable. In addition to long service life, metal offers safety as it a non-combustible material.

Paint: For the bathroom, specific types of paint are suitable. The most common options are:

  • Latex;
  • Acrylic;
  • Silicone.

Important! Before applying the paint, it necessary to pay attention to aligning the base of the wall as much as possible. Otherwise, defects on the surface of the wall, such as bumps are visible and the paint gets damaged sooner than it should.

Stucco: Decorative plaster has an attractive appearance (which is just what the Venetian plaster for walls are for) and long service life. However, stucco also comes with disadvantages, mainly its high cost and complex installation.

Bathroom flooring

Porcelain stoneware is most often used as a floor covering in the bathroom. These ceramic tiles are made in a way that significantly reinforces their wear resistance and durability.

In addition, porcelain tile has several other advantages, including:

  1. A wide range of shades: You can choose the flooring to match the walls or play with contrasts, for example, by combining a dark floor with light-colored walls.
  1. Anti-slip effect: The surface of porcelain tile is slightly rough, which protects against slipping, especially when the surface is wet.
  1. Water resistance: This property is necessary for any bathroom flooring. Porcelain tile retains its quality, even under the influence of moisture, and is able to withstand a large amount of water, a characteristic that is especially useful in case the bathroom floods.


If you do not fancy porcelain stoneware, you can instead install one of the following options:

  1. Water-resistant laminate: It provides reliable protection against water. The cost of a water-resistant laminate is much more expensive, but it can last more than 20 years, even in a bathroom with high humidity.

Important! Do not mistake moisture-proof laminate for waterproof laminate! Moisture-proof laminate is mainly suitable for the kitchen and deteriorates from a large amount of water, whereas water-resistant models, marked with a special icon, can survive even withstand flooding.

Processed wood: For lovers of natural and environmentally-friendly coatings, wood presents the ideal option. Most often, larch or teak is chosen for use in the bathroom. Remember that in order for the floor covering to last as long as possible, it must be treated with special impregnation and several layers of varnish.

Bathroom designed with a wooden floor

  1. Bulk floor: This floor covering, which resembles ceramic tile, is water-resistant and easy to install. Due to the absence of seems, it is easy to prevent water from getting under the coating. What’s more, the high degree of adhesion allows the bulk floor to attach firmly to the base.

  1. Linoleum: This is the most budget-friendly of all bathroom floor design options. Linoleum is also easy to install and maintain. The only thing that is important to monitor when laying linoleum is proper sealing of the joints. We recommend laying the roll in a single layer to prevent moisture from getting under the base.

What is the best ceiling for the bathroom?

Installing the ceiling in the bathroom is an important aspect of designing the bathroom. As this article stressed earlier, when selecting finishing materials for the bathroom, you should carefully select materials, placing specific emphasis on their moisture resistance. Currently, the most popular methods for decorating the ceiling in the bathroom are:

  1. Putty and paint: This is the most common finishing method. It gained popularity due to its affordability and ease of application of the materials, allowing the occupant of a home to apply the putty and paint without the services of a specialist. Putty and paint are not particularly durable. However, if applied correctly, they can last about 10 years.

Important! Please note that all materials for this kind of ceiling, including paint, primer, and putty, must be waterproof.

  1. Plastic PVC panels: Plastic PVC is a versatile material that is easy to install and maintain. However, as a ceiling in the bathroom, it is recommended that you install them only if you have a well-established ventilation system since dirt and moisture can clog in between the panels, causing damage.
  1. Rack ceiling: For a rack ceiling, special slabs are used. The frame of a rack ceiling is made of aluminum, plastic, or steel. For the bathroom, it is advisable to choose metal rails that are tolerant of moisture. Luckily, you can easily mount a rack ceiling yourself, helping you cut on costs.

  1. Drywall: It is mounted on a wooden or metal frame. When buying drywall material, pay attention to the mark ‘GKLV‘, which means that the gypsum plasterboard is waterproof. This kind of material allows you to create original multi-level ceilings with lamps built into the frame.

  1. The mirror: A mirrored ceiling is advantageous when used in the bathroom as it visually increases the space. The mirror ceiling is installed by fixing small mirror plates onto a metal frame that resembles a large mosaic. The only significant drawback of mirrored ceilings is the difficulty in maintenance, as they must be constantly wiped and polished to shine.

Plumbing in the bathroom – Latest trends

Plumbing is the foundation of any bathroom. Therefore, it is important to choose not only practical but also stylish plumbing elements that will fit into the modern design of your bathroom. In addition, pay attention to quality, since durable plumbing is desirable. The choice of elements will primarily depend on the area of ​​the apartment. Often, the main plumbing elements in the bathroom are:

  • A bath or shower (depending on your preference);
  • Sink;
  • Toilet bowl.


In some cases, you can install additional elements such as:

  • A second sink (if two or more people live in the house);
  • Bidet.

Choose plumbing and bathroom furniture

With the many choices available in the market, you can go with traditional options or more non-standard modern variants. In either case, ensure that the measurements of the plumbing fit into those of the bathroom.

Storage Systems for the Bathroom

When designing a small bathroom, storage systems are an option, rather than a necessity. However, if space permits, try arranging special shelves for storing bath accessories such as towels and bathrobes, etc. The storage can also be installed in the following ways:

  • Placing a cabinet under the sink;

  • Installing a wall cabinet with a mirrored door above the sink;
  • Installing open racks

  • Cabinets with transparent glass doors;
  • Baskets for dirty laundry, etc.

The most common material for storage systems is specially-treated wood. Due to its noble appearance, it can fit into any bathroom design.

Modern bathroom lighting

The bathroom should be as well-lit as possible, especially since the activities of the bathroom require good visibility. There are two main ways to install lighting in the bathroom:

  1. The use of several spotlights located around the perimeter of the bathroom.
  2. Installation of one pendant lamp and several additional light sources, for example, near a mirror or in a shower cabin.

Please note that properly-selected lighting devices can become a highlight of the bathroom interior. However, remember that the bathroom lighting fixtures need additional protection against moisture.

Decorative elements in the bathroom

The decor of the 2020 bathroom should ideally be practical. The most common decorative elements are:

  • Towel holders;
  • Hooks and hangers;
  • Shelves and laundry baskets;


Original shelves as a bathroom decor

  • Holders for soap and glasses for toothbrushes;
  • Frames for the mirror;
  • Wall clocks etc.

Creating and designing a bathroom is a painstaking process, but also exciting. Do not be afraid to go beyond the rules and try new innovative ideas, allowing you to get a design that pleases you and accurately reflects your style.

Wallpaper in the hallway – The best ideas and tips

You only have one chance to create a first impression. For this reason, it is important to make sure that the entryway into your home is as flawless as possible. The corridor is the first room people go through as they enter your home. Despite their small size, hallways combine several functional qualities. For instance, it is in the hallway that shoes, outerwear, and accessories like umbrellas, bags, and scarves are stored. Therefore, the decoration of the corridor walls is an important aspect. Choosing the most fitting wallpaper for your hallway will reward you with a stylish and extraordinary space that optimally expresses the character of the occupants of the home and creates the ideal first impression.

Features of hallway wallpaper

It is difficult to create an outstanding hallway since hallways are typically small elongated or square rooms. However, with all the varieties of the interior design of the corridor available today, you can easily transform your hallway into a unique and appealing space

The choice of finishing material is an important factor to consider, especially since there are endless varieties available today, from 3D panels to paint, laminate, and many more. For years, wallpaper has been the go-to choice for finishing the hallway. However, to truly transform the hallway and make it more stylish and spectacular you need to choose wallpaper strategically. Here are some important tips in selecting hallway wallpaper;

  1. Most corridors are devoid of sources of natural light. Therefore, the color scheme of the wallpaper matters a great deal. Discard dark shades of wallpaper as they make the hallway less appealing by darkening, clogging, and make it appear smaller.

  1. The hallway ushers in occupants and guests into the home. As a result, it is common for one to find dirty shoes, wet umbrellas, and coats, and dusty outerwear are often placed here. For this reason, it is important that the wallpaper in the corridor and hallway has good resistance to wear, moisture, dust, and pollution. You should preferably go for wallpaper that can be cleaned by brushing or using other simple cleaning methods.
  1. Small hallways often present issues to many homeowners. However, with the help of wallpaper, you can mask the challenges that accompany small hallways. Remember that cold shades can visually expand the room while warm colors narrow the room and give it a cozy atmosphere.

Important! Consider the trick of wallpaper combination. This trick is especially relevant for small corridors. Ideally, this trick works when you place canvases of dark shades in the lower part of the room, while the upper parts have lighter-toned wallpaper. Using this trick, you will be able to hide the defects that often appear at the bottom of the wall and at the same time visually expand the room using the light tones.

Types of wallpaper for the corridor

Of course, the biggest loads of dust, dirt, or water go onto the floor. However, when choosing wallpaper for the hallway, you need to take into account the immense activity and traffic this area endures, a factor, that limits the type of wallpaper that can be used to decorate this space.

However, despite this limitation, there are still plenty of colors and wallpaper materials to choose from for the corridor. In addition, you are free to experiment and try creative ideas.

Tip: The cleaning mode of wallpaper is often indicated on the packaging. Therefore, you are advised to carefully inspect the canvas for instructions before making your purchase. For instance, many types of wallpaper that can be wiped have a small icon depicting two waves. These waves indicate that in case of contamination you can wipe the wallpaper with an ordinary damp cloth. An icon depicting three waves means that the wallpaper is super washable and can safely be cleaned using various chemical cleaners. Some brands of wallpaper have a brush icon on their packaging, which means that if necessary, you can wipe the wallpaper not only with a rag but also with a stiff brush.

Evidently, the ability of the wallpaper to withstand moisture is one of the most important factors to consider. Based on this criterion, we recommend these types of wallpaper for the hallway;

Paper wallpaper

Paper wallpaper is a classic that has been used to decorate the interior for decades. However, for the hallway and corridor, paper wallpaper is discouraged. While paper wallpapers are quite affordable and come in wide ranges, they have a low resistance to moisture and humidity.

Due to their low tolerance to moisture, paper wallpapers cannot be cleaned of dirt and dust with a damp cloth, significantly complicating the cleaning process. In addition, paper wallpaper is not resistant to mechanical damage, stubborn stains cannot be removed as cleaning brushes will ruin the wallpaper.

If you are combining different types of wallpaper or even different types of finishing on your walls, you can glue paper sheets in the upper part of the room, where they are less likely to catch dirt and moisture.

Vinyl wallpapers

Vinyl wallpapers are perhaps the best option for decorating the corridor. Based on the material used as the base for this type of wallpaper, two types of canvas can be distinguished: paper and non-woven. The main feature of vinyl wallpapers is that a special vinyl layer is applied to the base, which provides additional protection to the wallpaper against dirt and moisture.

Non-woven vinyl wallpapers are considered more durable than paper vinyl wallpapers. They are resistant to high humidity, dust, and dirt. In addition, they can withstand various mechanical influences. With the wide range of shades and models available, you can definitely choose the option that is ideal for your interior.

Non-woven wallpaper

This type of wallpaper is made of a special material known as non-woven fabric, which is somewhat similar to ordinary paper wallpaper. However, unlike paper wallpaper, non-woven wallpaper has better wear resistance, is environmentally friendly, and provides good air circulation. Non-woven wallpaper is also best suited for the hallway because it is easy to wash. To do this, you will need a damp cloth and any type of regular detergent.

Non-woven wallpaper can be glued even on an imperfectly prepared base. Non-woven has a reinforcing property, which is ideal for sealing small cracks on walls before attaching wallpaper.

Cullet

Cullet is the most durable wallpaper option and can serve you for more than 30 years. Cullet canvases are additionally environmentally friendly and attractive in appearance. Of course, the cost of cullet wallpaper is much higher than that of the previous types discussed. However, the ease of cleaning cullet wallpaper, along with its durability, makes the high price worth it.

Photo wallpaper

If you want a more original hallway design, go for photo wallpaper in the interior of the hallway. Such canvases include a paper or a non-woven basis. Using innovative technologies, manufacturers apply various illustrations onto the canvas. These can be:

  • Plant illustrations;

  • Marine life;

  • The mountains;
  • Animals;
  • Landscapes
  • Photos of large cities, etc.

Most often, wall murals are located on one of the walls in the room. Photo wallpaper for a narrow hallway is best glued on the farthest wall.

Color spectrum

An important consideration in choosing wallpaper for a small hallway is the selection of the color palette. Modern manufacturers offer a huge assortment of various shades, allowing buyers to conveniently find options for any style. You can choose monophonic models or wallpaper with prints.

Would you like to get the wallpaper in an original shade or would you prefer a beautiful and unique illustration? Whatever you choose, wallpaper for painting will bring your creative fantasies to life.

When choosing the shade of wallpaper, it is important to consider the following factors:

  1. The total area of ​​the hallway. For a small corridor, using dark wallpaper is not a good idea, as this article has explained earlier. Instead, you are advised to go with pastel shades such as milky white, beige, or blue.
  2. The shape of the room.
  3. The presence of a source of natural light (Mostly detached private homes have natural lighting in their corridors).
  4. Style of the interior.
  5. The color scheme of the rooms which are adjacent to the hallway.
  6. The color scheme of the furniture facades in the corridor, as well as the color of the floor and ceiling.
  7. Your preferences.

Remember that the color of the wall contributes significantly to the overall appearance of the room. Poorly selected colors can spoil the aesthetic, making the design of the room impractical and uncomfortable. Designers generally advocate for the following colors in the corridor:

Light warm colors such as light brown, peach, milky, beige, or gold. Such shades make any room more comfortable and fill it with warmth.

Bright wallpaper in the hallway: Bright wallpaper is primarily used as an accent. It is often placed on one of the walls of the hallway and combined with more neutral tones.

White: White wallpaper in the hallway is a classic. This shade allows you to make the room visually larger and lighter. It goes without saying that the use of white wallpaper requires extreme caution. Even the smallest dirt will be noticeable on a white canvas.

Tip: It is not recommended to use dark wallpaper in the corridor and hallway as dark shades narrow the room and make it gloomy and uncomfortable. If you choose wallpaper in dark shades, such as dark blue, brown, or black, it is important that the room has various light sources in the room. In addition to the main chandelier, designers advise that you add a few sconces or floor lamps to make the room brighter.

Plain wallpaper or a patterned canvas?

Having settled on the shade of wallpaper for the corridor, the next step involves choosing between plain or printed wallpaper. The choice will depend primarily on your preferences. However, since the entrance hall is often the smallest room in the house, we recommend choosing plain wallpaper in light pastel colors.

Plain wallpaper also decorates the large corridor beautifully. The use of skirting boards in a contrasting shade to the wallpaper gives the interior a touch of originality. For instance, if you opt for brown or orange wallpaper, you should ideally complement the look with white skirting boards and plat-bands.

Also, to create contrast, you can use the facades of furniture in the hallway. For example, light wallpaper in the corridor is in perfect harmony with dark brown or black cabinets.

If you have a long and narrow corridor, you can beautifully decorate it using printed wallpaper. You can choose bright geometric patterns or cute floral patterns, depending on the style of the room and your preference. Remember that large prints visually reduce the area of ​​the room while unobtrusive small patterns expand the space.

The most common patterns for corridor wallpaper are:

  • Strips (Horizontal strips expand the width of the room, whereas vertical stripes visually make the ceiling appear higher);
  • Abstract patterns, which allow you to perfectly hide some defects on the surface of the wall;
  • Geometric patterns.

Patterned wallpaper can be used as the main wall decoration in the hallway or can be used to create an accent wall. For example, people often use print wallpaper in oblong rooms by sticking it on the wall that ends the corridor, thus creating an accent.

Options for combining wallpaper in the hallway

As this article earlier mentioned, you can easily combine different wallpaper in the hallway for a unique look. However, the thickness of the different wallpaper used should be uniform to avoid inconsistencies. There are two main types of wallpaper combinations: horizontal and vertical. Horizontal combos help to expand the area, while vertical combinations make the ceiling appear visually higher.

Aside from combining different types of wallpaper, you can alternatively pair wallpaper with another type of wall finishing such as:

  • Paint;
  • 3D panels;
  • Decorative plaster.

In such a scenario, panels or plaster are installed at the bottom of the wall as they are more resistant to moisture and are easier to clean than wallpaper. In the upper part of the wall, you can use wallpaper of any type, including wallpaper that cannot be washed.

Wallpaper in corridors of different styles

It is rare to find a uniquely decorated hallway. Most homeowners fail to realize that the hallway can accommodate plenty of original and creative ideas despite its small size. Decorating the hallway uniquely involves simple decisions such as choosing creative wallpaper. In this section, we give you different options for the corridor wallpaper, depending on the design style of the interior.

Provence

French chic is best exhibited by the Provence style. The Provence style can be achieved in the corridor using photo wallpaper with an illustration of small old cities, cafes, or bakeries. You can alternatively go for wallpaper in the Provence style. This wallpaper is usually in pastel colors like blue, green, pink, or beige and can be further decorated with floral prints.

Classic

The classic interior design favors wallpaper in warm tones. These tones give the room a special charm and comfort. Ideally, you should choose canvases in beige, light brown, or golden colors. In combination with dark furniture facades, such an interior appears luxurious and spectacular.

High tech

Hi-tech is about the clarity of lines and minimalism, making it an especially relevant style for small halls. Wallpaper in the high-tech corridor should preferably be monophonic. All variations of gray or white present a great option for wallpaper for a hi-tech interior. In a hi-tech interior, you can create accents by combining paintings with brighter models of wallpaper. For example, you can pair white wallpaper with red or green paintings.

Scandinavian style

The Scandinavian style presents you with a wide range of suitable wallpaper to choose from. White-toned walls, which are the main feature of Scandinavian interiors, visually increase a small corridor. Wallpaper in a Scandinavian-style hallway should preferably be plain or have a laconic geometric print. Also, dark blue or gray shades fit perfectly in such an interior.

Loft

Unlike many other styles of interior design, loft does not demand décor of. For the loft-style, it is more important to expose the brickwork. However, if you opt for wallpaper in a loft-style corridor, give preference to wallpaper that imitates natural materials like brick, concrete, or metal. As for the shade of the wallpaper, dwell on gray or brown tones.

Trendy wallpaper for the 2020/2021 hallway – Photos of the best concepts

In case you are thinking about installing wallpaper in your interior, you no doubt have one important question – what type of wallpaper is currently trendy? To help us answer this question, we have prepared several photos of wallpaper shades and prints that currently enjoy the most popularity. If you are inspired by these ideas, you can definitely borrow them and create your stylish and trendy hallway. Just look at the beautiful examples below:

The use of wallpaper in the hallway has been popular for several decades. However, of late, wallpaper manufacturers have been experimenting, offering customers more original colors and new prints on canvases. Do not be afraid to experiment with a new kind of wallpaper and choose bold options that will beautifully transform the hallway and allow you and your guests to feel comfortable in the interior from the go.

The best of the Scandinavian style in the interior–A blend of minimalism and practicality

More and more people today are opting for the Scandinavian style in decorating the interior of their homes. The versatility, minimalism, functionality, and beauty of this design style cannot but attract attention. The vast array of design and décor items for this style, from large furniture to small decorative elements makes the Scandinavian style all the more alluring. If this is not enough, Scandinavian motifs present a solution to residents of small apartments or rooms with insufficient natural lighting. The ample lighting and the use of predominantly light shades, which characterize the Scandinavian style, create the impression of a large space. Most importantly, due to its versatility, the Scandinavian style suits any room, whether it is the bedroom, kitchen, living room, or even nursery.

Features of the Scandinavian style as used in the interior of a house or apartment

However, you need to note that even though the Scandinavian style prioritizes minimalism, you can still use décor elements. In fact, the Scandinavian style skillfully combines practical and aesthetic elements. You just need to use décor pieces in moderation. This way, even the smallest detail can become the highlight of the room, while allowing you to retain the Scandinavian style.

The basic principles of the Scandinavian style include:

  • Provide as much natural light in as much as possible, as the light helps to visually expand the room. You can achieve this by designing the interior to have multiple large windows;
  • White dominates the finishing: In addition to the usual white ceiling, designers recommend decorating all the walls in white. With this technique, you will achieve an even distribution of sunlight, since the sunlight will be reflected from the snow-white walls and spread throughout the room, creating a cozy effect.
  • Use the maximum amount of natural materials: The Scandinavian style is strict on naturalness. You can achieve this quality by using pieces made from natural materials such as wood, ceramics, or stone. Designers further recommend that you use leather, fur, and natural fabrics like cotton or linen as accent details. Since natural materials are costly, you can as well go for more affordable artificial imitations if you are on a tight budget;
  • Creating a feeling of spaciousness: To achieve spaciousness in a limited space, designers of the Scandinavian style often combine two or more rooms in a single space. For instance, designers often design the living room and kitchen, or the bedroom and study to interact harmoniously as a single space. Often, this combination is popular in studio apartments, where several functional zones are located in the territory of one room;

The use of simple furniture designs, which, in turn, provide comfort and practicality. In principle, functionality is the hallmark of the Scandinavian motif in the interior;

  • One or two bright accents: Accents are supposed to catch the attention of the eye. The accent items popular in Scandinavian-style interiors are furniture, textiles like curtains, and pillows, indoor plants, and wall decoration elements like paintings, panels, and photographs;
  • Personality: This is perhaps the most important aspect of the Scandinavian style. Everything single item in the room and its arrangement should reflect the traits of the occupants and serve as their ideal island of comfort. It is especially important that the interior represents all the basic criteria of beauty, comfort, and aesthetics associated with the Scandinavian style.

In summary, the components of a perfectly-executed Scandinavian style can be divided into various categories, as explained in the following section:

Colors

There is a popular opinion that the Nordic interior design is boring, as it mostly consists of achromatic white-gray colors. However, this opinion is absolutely wrong. With origins in the northern latitudes, where the winter palette predominates, the Scandinavian style has incorporated all the shades of the Scandinavian environment; the gray-purple and sky-blue tones of the sky, the bluish color of rocks covered with snow and shrouded in fog, velvety-green moss, pinkish reflections of the sunset on the surface of water bodies, and golden lights glowing on the shores.

If you would like to experiment with the Scandinavian style, you can start by searching photos of Nordic landscapes on the internet, then proceeding to recreate your favorite palette in the interior. It is important to take into account the proportions of your interior, as well as the influence of certain colors on the mood of the occupants. The main shades that characterize the Scandinavian style include:

  • Muted white with a faint highlight of gray and yellow ;
  • Bleached beige or ivory;
  • Graphite gray, stone gray, granite, or greenish-gray (khaki);
  • Grayish blue, plain gray, deep blue, or the tone of a cloudy sky;
  • Coniferous green, olive, or the greenish-yellow color of cut grass;
  • Violet-blue, dark purple, azure;
  • Dusty yellow (as if a drop of gray has been added to yellow paint), mustard, gold.

Scandinavian style kitchen

Materials

Northern European interiors, which are now at the peak of popularity in many countries around the world, extreme importance is attached to natural textures. Natural textiles are ideal for use in Scandinavian interiors as they create a warm and comfortable environment that allows occupants to get the best relaxation. Unlike synthetics, natural materials give a pleasant feeling of comfort and security.

Given its simple and environmentally-friendly approach, the Scandinavian design deprives the home of the deliberate luxury that characterizes other interior design styles. The Scandinavian style also lacks ultramodern or futuristic elements like touch panels, glass partitions, or streamlined plastic shapes. Instead, the style features the following elements:

  • Light-colored unprocessed wood on the floor, countertops, and beams;
  • Plain paint (whitewashing) on ​​the walls and ceiling;
  • Ceramic tile “wild boar”, often in square shapes and with soft patchwork patterns;
  • Porcelain tiles with a texture of wood or stone like marble or granite;
  • Items made of non-chrome steel or other metal painted in matte black;
  • Shine-free soft fabrics such as dense cotton, linen, velvet, jacquard, plush blankets, and woolen rugs with ethnic northern patterns.

Furniture

IKEA has long been a trendsetter for Scandinavian-style furniture. The simplicity and lightness of IKEA’s have gained the brand immense popularity throughout Europe. However, furnishings similar to those sold in IKEA can easily be found in other furniture stores or workshops.

Upholstered Scandinavian-style furniture looks simple and compact. Scandinavian-style furniture is typically foldable and has low legs. The shape of the furniture tends to be rectangular, with slightly smoothed corners. Plain natural fabrics like linen or cotton are used for upholstery, but fabrics like velour are not popular.

Tables, chairs, and stools for Scandinavian interiors are distinguished by their special leg positioning. The stands for this furniture are not located directly below the furniture, but instead, are positioned to form trapezoidal shapes. Other times, the legs are connected crosswise with thin jumpers made of ferrous metal. The back and seat for such furniture are fused to form a slight tilt.

The facades of the cabinets are often matte, paneled, and with inconspicuous miniature handles. Doors often lack decorative or glass inserts. Open shelves in Nordic interiors are rare, with the exception of compact cabinets or thin hinged slots for minute items.

Décor

Vibrant accents help invigorate the cool Scandinavian interior. These can either be utilitarian objects or simple yet pleasant décor items, for example:

  1. Lamps in the form of webs, diamond or other metallic frames, tree branches, deer horns, or inverted geometric shades, which can be gilded from the inside. Garlands flickering in the warm white or yellow light are always appropriate for the bedroom, while tall floor lamps on wooden trapezoidal legs best fit in the living room.

  1. Cushions in rich colors, with a velvety texture, abstract black and white drawings, and exotic ornaments present an easy way of infusing the room with romance and peace while improving the mood.

  1. Warm blankets are indispensable during the cold. The most appropriate blankets that complement the Scandinavian style are light plain woolen products, as well as large-sized hand-made knitted fringe blankets. In winter, you can use red and white blankets or those with New Year’s patterns, to reflect the holiday mood.

  1. Carpets are allowed, especially if they are fleecy. The texture of fleecy carpets is reminiscent of that of coniferous forests, moss, or dry grass. Smooth carpets also fit well into Scandinavian interiors. Smooth carpets are often slightly dusted and ideally have a grayish tint, even if they consist of colored threads. Triangles, rhombuses, traditional Icelandic and Norwegian motifs are often found on these carpets, to reflect the roots of the Scandinavian style.

  1. Small decor items are popular in Scandinavian interiors. Often, these décor items come in form of pictures of northern landscapes, black and white photos, or discreet abstract wall paintings. In some cases, candles, including electric candles with a warm white glow, lanterns, textured vases, crafts made from natural materials such as wood, barks, or cones breathe life into Scandinavian interiors.

Bright and original decor breathes life into an otherwise boring Scandinavian interior

Most popular colors and shades

As mentioned earlier, Scandinavian motifs most often use white or light gray tones. For the most part, homes in Northern Europe consisting of white walls and ceilings. Northern Europeans love white for the following reasons:

  1. Visual increase in the size of the room:It is a well-known fact that darker colors make spaces appear smaller whereas lighter shades visually enlarge interiors. This principle formed the basis of the Scandinavian style. Snow-white walls, as used in the Scandinavian style visually increase the area a small room, making it appear more spacious due to the abundance of air and light.
  1. Proper penetration of light: The white finishing repels the light, thereby distributing it evenly throughout the room.
  1. Perfect background: Using white allows you to add accent details in absolutely any color because white goes with any color. By adding a few bright elements into a white room, you can radically improve its appearance and boost its mood.

However, while white goes well with any color, caution should be exercised when using pink or yellow accents. You should ensure that you use these colors minimally if the interior is predominantly white. The main companion of snow-white is black. Of course, for a Scandinavian interior, the black should be used in a lesser proportion compared to white since the basis of Scandinavian interiors is white backgrounds. In some cases, dark-gray tones are also used as a complement to white. To harmonize these contrasting colors, it is recommended you add several wooden pieces to the room. Wood will definitely make your interior appear harmonious and stylish. Against the background of the sharply contrasting colors, wood infuses the room with warmth and coziness. Light wood such as birch and pine is the most fitting for Scandinavian interiors. You can use wood for flooring, facades, shelves, and so much more.

Wooden table in a Scandinavian kitchen

While bright objects are necessary so as to bring life into a Scandinavian interior, you should be careful so as not to over saturate the interior. You can achieve this by introducing a few outstanding bright pieces, either one large object like a sofa, chest of drawers, or table or a few smaller pieces such as paintings, curtains, or shelves.

Scandinavian-style lighting

Large panoramic windows are ideal for Scandinavian interiors as they ensure the interior is flooded with light. However, it is not always possible to obtain the desired amount of natural lighting, even with large windows. All professional designers unanimously reiterate the importance of sufficient and strategic artificial lighting sources for Scandinavian-style rooms. For Scandinavian interiors, one central source of light such as a chandelier is not enough. To achieve the best lighting, you should utilize a combination of diverse lighting devices, particularly the ones described below:

  1. Ceiling lights: For a Scandinavian interior, the ceiling lights should ideally be modest chandeliers made of wood, glass, or metal. Such lamps should be distinguished by their conspicuous simplicity, especially with regard to design and colors. If you want the ceiling lights to become a highlight, you should go with lights that have unique geometric shapes.

  1. Floor lamps or sconces: The simplicity promoted by the Scandinavian style is reflected in the use of simplistic forms of lighting, as stated earlier. Therefore, you can select metal sconces or floor lamps in dark shades and industrial designs. Spotlights present a unique solution.
  1. Table lamps: The bases of table lamps are often made of natural wood. In addition, the Scandinavian style goes well with table lamps made of copper or brass.
  1. Decorative lamps: Often, these lamps are similar to portable flashlights. Due to their small size, they can be placed on shelves, cabinets, or windowsills, thereby creating a cozy atmosphere.
  1. Garlands: These devices present quite an outstanding way of decorating the interior. Retro-style garlands have traditionally decorated many Scandinavian-style rooms.


Garlands in the Scandinavian interior

When selecting the lighting devices, ensure you take into account the dimensions of the room. Also remember that floor lamps or sconces should not be the primary sources of light for your interior, since they are mainly decorative elements. You should, therefore, position these devices to highlight the area you want. This way, you can create the best Scandinavian comfort in your home.

Scandinavian style living room

The living room is the heart of any home. After all, it is here that people relax in the evening with their families and also entertain friends and guests. In most cases, the living room does not have any functional role. Still, the living room needs to be designed and decorated well to ensure comfort and coziness. One of the most important aspects to pay attention to when designing the living room is ensuring the proper arrangement of all the components of the room for ease of movement. Of course, it goes without saying that the less cluttered the living room is, the easier it is to clean, and the core spacious and beautiful it appears.

Based on the information from the previous section, you can clearly see that the Scandinavian style is the perfect solution for the living room. Scandinavian living rooms are not only cozy but also modern. Thus, you can be sure that your living room design will remain relevant for quite a while. Also, the resources you spend on natural and environmentally-friendly materials for your Scandinavian living room will pay off not only with the attractive appearance of the result but also with the durability of the items.

Also, the Scandinavian style is suitable for people who quickly get bored. Unlike baroque or high-tech styles, the Scandinavian style can easily be altered with minor alterations, such as changing the accent details. Adding new throw pillows or shelves can transform a Scandinavian interior beyond recognition.

Scandinavian style living room

To get as much sunlight as possible into your Scandinavian interior, you have to sacrifice long and large curtains. In most parts of Northern Europe, people prefer roller blinds, blinds or even just bare windows. If you need to protect your eyes from the sun, thin and transparent tulles would be perfect since they minimize the amount of natural light entering the room.

The classic version of the Scandinavian living room, has a snow-white ceiling and walls, a floor made of light wood such as parquet or its imitation like laminate, a sofa or armchairs with natural fabric upholstery, a small coffee table and flowerpots with living plants or artificial plants (although real plants are preferred), and small bright accents such as pillows, floor lamps, and chandeliers.

For those who collect books or love to read, it would be appropriate to combine the living room with the library, particularly if your interior is small. This way, you can comfortably read in an armchair. For the Scandinavian style, designers recommend shunning closed cabinets in favor of open shelves or racks made of both wood and metal. Open shelves take up minimal space and are not only practical but also stylish.

Features of the design of the kitchen and dining room

The basis of the design of the kitchen is the familiar combination of white and black tones. The kitchen is one of the most functional rooms, so the Scandinavian design principles come in especially handy. Wooden facades in combination with the apron slightly dilute the monotony of the black and white, giving you a bright, relaxing and comfortable space that is perfect for preparing meals and enjoying them with the entire family.

Studio apartments are becoming increasingly popular. By combining the living room and kitchen/dining areas, it becomes possible to save on space in the home, making your interior more spacious and free. However, with this approach, you get more space for the living and dining room zones, while sacrificing on the kitchen area.

Small Scandinavian style kitchen

However, you need not worry about this if your interior is Scandinavian, as you can easily carry out territorial planning. It is important to only install the functional items in such an interior, in order not to overload the space. With this approach, you will have a competently-furnished kitchen where each item fits in seamlessly, making it easy for you to prepare food and clean up.

The main principles of the Scandinavian style, such as the use of light shades on walls and ceilings, facades of light wood, as well as the proper arrangement of lighting devices, come in handy for small kitchens as these techniques add space to your kitchen and visually increase its area. You can accentuate your Scandinavian kitchen with appliances in retro style. These appliances should ideally have unique designs and bright colors since they are meant to serve as bright accents and refresh the look of your kitchen.

Scandinavian bedroom – How to combine comfort and practicality?

Many people spend the bulk of their time in the bedroom. For this reason, you should design and decorate your bedroom for maximum comfort. In contrast to other spaces such as the kitchen, the bedroom has very few practical items, except perhaps a bed or wardrobe. In principle, it is inappropriate to place too many furniture pieces in the bedroom. In addition to the bed and closet, you can spruce up your bedroom by adding bedside tables and additional lighting systems such as sconces or floor lamps.

Scandinavian-style combined bedroom lighting

The accent wall, i.e. one of the walls of the room stands that stands out from the others with the help of unique finishing like wallpaper – is quite popular in Scandinavian-style bedrooms. Instead of painting a different color on the accent wall, you can use a different wall finishing like wallpaper or decorative plaster for the accent wall. In case you opt for an accent wall, for instance in the headboard area, it is important that the other three walls be left as intact as possible.

Accent wall in the bedroom

Use natural wood materials to add warmth to the space. Wooden decor creates an indescribable cozy atmosphere that favors sleep and relaxation. Wood can be used anywhere in the bedroom, from the furniture to the flooring. You only need to ensure that the wood is in harmony with other elements of the room. There are unlimited types and designs of wooden design and décor types. You will easily find items that match your budget and taste.

Whereas the retro style combines perfectly with the Scandinavian-style kitchen, Scandinavian-style bedrooms blend in perfectly with classic elements. For example, the use of wicker furniture or decor will give the room a charming feel. You can even introduce beautiful garden chairs in the bedroom if you have the space, and use a wicker basket as an organizer for your newspapers and magazines. Many designers suggest using artificially-aged furniture as it gives a stylish and original look that is just perfect for the bedroom.

Scandinavian minimalism in other rooms of the house

In addition to the main rooms discussed until now, let’s look at other rooms in which the Scandinavian style can be useful.

Children’s rooms

Often, parents prefer to design rooms for their children in the Scandinavian style. The main advantage of this choice is the ability to remodel the interior depending on the age of the child without major investments. You can completely transform the space by simply overhauling some pieces of furniture or changing accent colors. In addition, natural wood furniture, a key element of the Scandinavian style, is highly suitable for children’s spaces. This is because wood is an environmentally-friendly material that is also friendly to the health. Minimalism, which should be adhered to when designing any Scandinavian interior, will give the child more space for indoor activities.

A Scandinavian-style kid’s room

As for the decor elements, the following details are the most popular:

  • Wooden or wicker baskets for storage of toys and other items.
  • Living indoor plants that give a sense of freshness.
  • Rugs with unusual patterns.
  • Large and soft decorative pillows.
  • Additional lighting: In addition to the main chandelier, garlands, floor lamps or wall lamps are suitable.
  • Posters, paintings, paper flags, etc.
  • Toys:There are plenty of toys that fit perfectly into the Scandinavian interior. You do not necessarily have to choose pastel-colored toys. Instead, you can go for bright dolls, teddy bears or cars, as these create a great accent.

Decor for a kid’s room

Study

Many people are increasingly working from home. Unfortunately, the limited space of most homes does not permit the creation of an office. Most people partition off small sections of the bedroom or living room to act as their home offices. In any case, it doesn’t matter whether you have a separate room for the office or just a couple of square meters. With Scandinavian-style design techniques, you can create the perfect and most efficient home office.

Scandinavian-style study

All that is needed for the design of a home workspace is a desk or table, ideally with a pedestal and open storage systems like shelves or racks. The Scandinavian style shuns any manifestations of excessive luxury, making the style ideal for planning a study at home. Special attention should be paid to decorative elements. For an office in the Scandinavian style, the following elements are perfect:

  • Motivational posters.
  • Photos of your special moments or people.These can be arranged as a collage or one by another.
  • Living plants:A simple plant like a cactus placed near a computer monitor is considered a classic.
  • Any item that inspires you:Remember that the workplace environment should inspire productivity. Therefore, as decor, you can use any elements that raise your mood. From your favorite figurines, to magazines, or flower vases.


Posters, vases and candles – the main decor of the Scandinavian interior

Bathroom

Like other rooms in the Scandinavian style, the bathroom should be as light and spacious as the conditions allow. Scandinavian motifs are ideal for the design of the bathroom. You can use light walls and a dark floor to create an appealing contrast. In addition, plumbing, which is mostly white, looks more impressive against a black floor finishing. However, it is not customary that you use wooden elements in the bathroom. However, these elements are desired as they give the room warmth and originality. To protect the wood from water and moisture, you ought to treat it with special chemicals. After treating the wood, you can comfortably use it for shelves or countertops.

Balcony

The loggia is an important part of any home. Previously, people stored unnecessary items such as bicycles, sledges, strollers, or boxes on the balcony. Today, the balcony has become an island of sorts, created to allow rest and relaxation. Make your space as free as possible, while opening it up to sunlight and clean air.

Scandinavian style loggia

In the design of the balcony walls, an ordinary wooden lining or brick painted in light pastel colors does the trick. You can additionally use pillows or rugs as decor. These items not only create coziness, but also help keep you warm in cold weather. You also need to pay attention to the lighting, even on the balcony. Floor lamps with thick wires or elegant candles on the balcony will give you comfort.

Plaid and pillows as a decor of the balcony

The Scandinavian style can be applied to all other areas of the home, even the corridor. The famous clarity and simplicity of the lines in the Scandinavian style and the perfect combination of beauty and practicality is facilitated by the proper design of the space, where each element has its place and fulfills its purpose. The minimalism principle of the Scandinavian style makes the interior incredibly free, convenient and easy to clean.

This cool vanity room design would help you to get a perfect look

A vanity room is a must-have for any stylish and trendy person, especially women. With uncountable beauty products, clothes, and accessories, a separate area where all this gear can be organized and remain accessible is essential. A vanity room should have all the necessary tools required for any trendy person’s arsenal, including a dresser, wardrobes, shelves, and mirror. However, one tool that’s compulsory yet often underestimated is a Vanity mirror with lights.

If you want to get a full picture of how you look before stepping out into the world, you must own a full-length mirror. Additionally, it should be correctly placed and adequately decorated to give you the best results. This article offers some creative ideas that will help you get the best use of a full-sized mirror. You will be stunned by how it feels to see your whole self from head to toe in a proper setting.

Continue reading to learn the best setting for a full-length mirror that will help you make a better and complete picture of yourself without a camera.

  • Soft Fuzzy Fur Rug below the mirror

Laying a soft rug below the mirror will give your vanity room a luxurious, elegant, and chic appearance. It will also give your feet the warmth and comfort you need while spending time getting ready in front of the mirror. With a fuzzy fur rug beneath your feet, you will not have to worry about your feet getting cold or hurt due to standing. Consequently, you will be able to spend hours in front of the mirror and won’t have to cut short your ‘getting-ready sessions’ just because of discomfort.

  • Full-Length Mirror with Lights

As any woman would know, having the perfect lighting is essential to apply makeup flawlessly. There is nothing worse than having dim or inadequate lights when it comes to getting ready and nothing better than having a full picture of yourself with perfect lights. Therefore, the perfect solution is having a full-length mirror with lights in your vanity room. There is a large variety of vanity lights available in the market today. You can easily get your hands on these lights according to your mirror and its size. Installing such a mirror will give you a complete look at how you look from head to toe. It is recommended not to mount this mirror on the wall. It should be kept on the floor with the wall’s support or a stand above a soft fuzzy fur rug.

  • Dark background for the fine appearance

Having a dark background behind your mirror will help you in getting a finer reflection of yourself. With minimum glare falling on your eyes, you will be able to get a better and enhanced look upon yourself. This dark background can be achieved by painting the back wall with a dark color or by installing a wallpaper that’s dusky. The contrasting reflections will be immensely helpful in getting the best results and use of your full-length mirror.

  • Appropriate Shelves on the wall

We are all well aware of the number of products we may need at any time while getting ready. Moving back and forth to get hold of these items can be a hassle and tiresome at the same time. Therefore, having an appropriate number of shelves placed around the mirror is compulsory to achieve a hassle-free makeup time. These shelves can be installed and well-adjusted just according to your likings and preferences. You may have large shelves on just one side of the mirror or small shelves on each side. With innumerous options available, you can choose anything as per your own liking. You can keep all the required things within your reach and get dolled-up without any annoyance or trouble.

  • Don’t use Vanity Tabletop

Using a tabletop has been a part of our vanities since forever. However, a tabletop may hide your complete look. It may keep you from checking if your skirt’s length is working out for you or if your pants compliment your top or how your shoes look with your outfit. A vanity tabletop may be a norm, but it does not allow you to look at yourself wholly. Therefore, using a full-length mirror with lights and shelves is far more practical than using a vanity tabletop.

Wrapping up the topic!

A full length LED mirror is definitely a staple for any house. Besides being functional and practical, it is also decorative and beautiful-looking. It will help you give your vanity room an ornamental look and will also help you get a complete picture of yourself. Get a full-length LED mirror today to look at yourself from head to toe in one go without having to perch on the bathtub edge or stand up on the bed.

All you need to know about basic room decor: Design solutions for the ceiling, walls and floor

The design or repair of any interior space begins with the visualization of the result. At the beginning of such a process, you already have an idea of how the result will ideally appear. At this stage, you should already have a conceptualization of the colors, textures, the arrangement of furniture, appliances, and decor elements. The design or repair of any space begins with the conceptualization of the finishing. The materials for decorating the walls, ceiling, and floor must be carefully thought out in advance. It is important to evaluate the pros and cons of each option and focus on the one that suits you the most. This process is especially important since if the result is unsatisfactory you will have to rework the finishing, a process that is both expensive and time-consuming. Therefore, you need to think carefully before you choose from the wide selection of finishing materials available today.

Types of ceiling surfaces

Often, the process of decorating the home begins with the ceiling. Only a few years ago, the decoration of the ceiling was limited to whitewashing, painting (mainly in light colors), or the use of wallpaper. Today, however, the range of options for decorating the ceiling has surged dramatically. Modern designers are more open-minded about experimenting with the design of the ceiling and offer several bold and original ideas.

Currently, the most popular ceiling decorations are:

  • Faux plasterboard ceilings;
  • Stretch ceilings;
  • All kinds of paint-colored ceilings;
  • Original decorative plaster;
  • Wallpaper;
  • Various ceiling panels;
  • A combination of one or more of the above finishing.

The following sections will discuss the above finishing and décor in detail.

One of the finishing materials, drywall, emerged just a few years ago but quickly gained popularity among designers and homeowners. The composition of a drywall ceiling is quite simple; suspended surfaces are made of high-quality gypsum, which, in turn, has a two-sided cardboard lining. With this solution, you can easily create a unique ceiling design for your home.

In addition, plasterboard ceilings have many more important advantages, including:

  1. Can be installed even on untreated and non-plastered surfaces. Therefore, it is not necessary to prepare the ceiling for the installation of drywall.
  2. Plasterboard/drywall can conceal all kinds of cords and pipes located on the ceiling.
  3. The result of the finishing is a flat and smooth surface devoid of any flaws, which is difficult to achieve with an ordinary whitewash.
  4. Drywall comprises non-combustible materials, and, therefore it is not flammable and safe with respect to fire.
  5. Modern technologies use special excipients to ensure the absolute waterproofness of the coating.
  6. Environmental friendliness: The materials used to create drywall are absolutely safe to both human health and the environment. Therefore, you can safely install a drywall ceiling even in children’s rooms.
  7. Allows for experimentation: For instance, with the help of gypsum boards, you can create multi-level ceilings, or decorate niches and arches, thereby adding exclusivity to your room.
  8. This option is suitable for those who plan to install built-in lighting in the room. You can mount bulbs inside the panels while hiding the wiring under the plates.
  9. In most cases, the installation of drywall is so simple and convenient that you can handle it yourself, without the help of professionals.
  10. Drywall can easily be combined with other types of materials for ceiling surfaces.
  11. Affordably priced and available in a fairly wide range of shades.

However, it should be noted that there are several drawbacks to drywall/plasterboard ceiling panels. For example, despite its water-repellent nature, drywall is still not recommended for installation in rooms with high humidity. Therefore, drywall is unsuitable for decorating a kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room. Another disadvantage of the material is its fragility. Drywall is unable to withstand heavy loads and can easily be deformed from mechanical damage.

Another common type of ceiling design is a stretch ceiling. This ceiling design comes in two varieties, one made from fabric and another from a special film. However, either type gives a flat surface.

Stretch ceilings have numerous advantages, such as:

  • It allows you to conceal wires and pipes;
  • Stretch ceilings make it possible to achieve smoothness and symmetry even on uneven surfaces;
  • It is waterproof;
  • Stretch ceilings can withstand bigger loads than drywall, which can be useful especially in apartments;
  • The eco-friendly nature of the material allows it to be used safely in residential spaces;
  • Stretch ceilings can be installed quickly and easily. In addition, a stretch ceiling does not gather much dirt or dust, making its maintenance easy;
  • They come in a wide range, from a variety of shades to multiple patterns;
  • Affordable.

However, despite its many advantages, a stretch ceiling also has limitations. For example, while its installation can be done quickly and easily, you still need to recruit an expert, particularly since the installation of the ceiling requires special equipment. In addition, due to the components of a stretch ceiling, after installation, a discomforting smell may linger in the room for several days.

Wallpaper, on the other hand, was quite popular in decorating the ceiling for several years. However, only light colors were preferred then. Today, you can find more varied ceiling wallpaper, with multiple colors and textures. You can choose either light pastel colors or bolder bright ones.

The benefits of ceiling wallpaper include:

  1. Available in a wide range of colors and patterns.
  2. You can combine two different wallpapers in a single room.
  3. Some models can be repainted, thereby making it easy to remodel the room.
  4. Easy to install: Although wallpapering requires some skill, with sufficient practice, you can easily install it on your own.
  5. Affordable pricing for good quality.
  6. Some types are water-resistant.

However, a wallpapered ceiling is not a one-fits-all solution. For instance, rooms facing the sun should know that the wallpaper fades and degenerates with time, due to exposure to heat. In addition, some types of wallpaper are easily damaged by water.

Along with wallpapering, painting the ceiling is a commonly used solution. This decoration method is also quite traditional. However, there are now many more paint colors to choose from. Painting can, however, be difficult in cases where the ceiling surface is uneven. Paint only comes out beautifully on a perfectly aligned surface. Otherwise, the result will be ugly. Therefore, make sure you even the floor before painting it.

Other methods of decorating the ceiling include the use of special panels, a method that has become particularly trendy in recent years. These wood panels are so easy to install that you can even mount them yourself. While the most popular panels are made from natural wood, there also exist variants made from fiberboard, particleboard, plastic or even glass. However, the variants made from natural materials are preferable, although they are more expensive than the others. Regardless, compared to the previous options, such a ceiling finish, depending on the material chosen, can save you money.

New and emerging trends in wall decor

The appearance of the walls is perhaps the first thing that catches the eye as soon as someone enters a room. Therefore, it is critical that you choose a design that fully syncs with the overall style of the room and emphasizes the beauty of the interior. With the help of the right shade of the walls, you can visually enlarge a small space. In some cases, bright colors are more appropriate since they serve as a highlight of the room.

The decoration of the walls does not follow any clearly set out rules. You can choose a neutral, one-color, or patterned solution, for instance, as long as your selected color syncs beautifully with other elements of the space. Color aside, planning and designing walls is not that easy. First, you need to go over several materials and choose one, having considered the pros and cons of each material. For the most part, the design of walls is similar to that of the ceiling, and you can choose from options such as drywall, wallpaper, paint, or a combination of these materials.

While many materials used to decorate walls emerged as fashionable trends, beautiful and stylish wallpaper is a classic design. The wide varieties available today make it easy to choose a suitable variant.

Wallpaper with large patterns is especially beautiful. Still, you need to make your choice carefully. The best solution is to place the wallpaper on one so-called accent wall, since wallpapers with patterns, especially large patterns, can visually reduce the area of ​​the room. However, if you have a large space, you can go ahead and experiment. Wallpapers with large patterns look luxurious and emphasize the elegance of your home. Regardless, you need to remember one important rule; if the wallpaper you have chosen has a large or bright pattern, the furniture should be in a neutral and plain color scheme.

Monophonic wallpaper does not have to look boring and unoriginal. You can spruce up a monophonic wallpaper with the aid of various wall stickers, moldings or even textiles. For a small room, you can just brighten the monophonic wallpaper by hanging small photograph frames or posters on the wall.

The concept of an accent wall has already been discussed in the earlier sections of this article. A similar option as the accent wall is often used in decorating bedrooms and children’s rooms. In this scenario, three walls are decorated in the same color, while the remaining wall, often the one located at the head of the bed, is decorated with colorful patterned wallpaper or a printed photo if possible. This technique helps bring the interior to life, without clogging it with unnecessary décor details. The accent wall itself is an excellent element of decor.

In addition to using a differently colored wallpaper, the accent wall is often supplemented with completely different materials, such as wood panels and textiles. Wood panels are often used to create accent walls for interiors in the Scandinavian style . Along with plain light-colored walls, using natural or artificial wood adds a refreshing touch to the room, spectacularly transforming it.

The second most popular material for decorating walls is panels. Panels imitate materials such as plaster or stone. Due to the large variety of materials that panels imitate, you have a wide range to choose from, from brick to marble, wood, and many other options. In addition, panels have multiple advantages, including:

  • Ease of installation;
  • Panels can be installed even on uneven surfaces, where they hide imperfections that may be on walls;
  • Most panels are water-repellent, a functional feature they retain even in rooms with high humidity, moisture, and temperature extremes;
  • High level of wear resistance;
  • Ease of removal;
  • The size of a panel can easily be customized to fit the dimensions of a particular room, thereby reducing wastage.

As for paint, the main hindrance is usually uneven surfaces, which may cause smudges and an overall unattractive appearance due to the uneven appearance of paint. Therefore, before painting, you need to carefully treat the surface with plaster.

Aside from the options discussed until this point, brickwork is an increasingly popular mode of decorating walls. Brickwork can either be original bricks as used in the construction of the house, or faux brickwork, for instance, a wallpaper with a brickwork pattern. If you want an original brickwork finishing, the brick has to undergo thorough processing, which is done using special chemicals. After this process, the masonry can serve as an accent or main wall, as illustrated in the photo below.

Floor coverings –Combining appeal with practicality

Often, the floor merely serves a practical function and goes unnoticed. In modern design, experts are increasingly advocating for the décor of floors, noting that flooring should be in harmony with the general concept of ​​the room, to create uniformity. The most commonly used flooring includes:

  • Laminate;
  • Parquet;
  • Tile;
  • Carpet;
  • Linoleum.

Laminate is the most practical flooring. Initially, it was created as a cheaper variant of the then popular parquet. However, modern technology has helped improve the quality of laminate. Some variants of laminate can withstand such heavy loads that they are even used in the flooring of large industrial rooms.

The advantages of laminate include:

  1. Available in a wide range:In addition to models that imitate wood, you can find boards that imitate stone, metal or even leather.
  2. Environmental friendliness: Laminate boards are friendly to the environment and also to the health of the user.
  3. Wear resistance:Some laminate boards can last for over 25 years. Such products are superior as they are able to withstand various mechanical and chemical damage, including the claws of animals, the pressure of shoes, relatively harsh cleaning products, and other types of pressure.
  4. Easy to maintain.
  5. Offers safety against fire.
  6. Water resistant:This quality allows you to install laminate even in the bathroom.
  7. Affordable price.

Parquet is also a popular finishing. It offers a magnificent view and, therefore, significantly transforms the room. However, unlike laminate, parquet lacks water-repellent properties and has poor wear resistance. Natural wood is susceptible to damage by water, chemicals, or mechanical damage.

For the kitchen and bathroom, the go-to option is often ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles are able to with stand the heavy loads of plumbing and large household appliances and retain their quality, even with extreme exposure to water, moisture, and heat.


The positive attributes of ceramic tiles include:

  1. Able to withstand sunlight: Due to this property, tile does not fade or lose its attractive appearance.
  2. Durability: It is difficult to damage tiles, even if a large or heavy object falls on the tiles.
  3. Tiles come in many varieties, allowing you to select the type that is most suitable to your needs.
  4. The maintenance of tiles is easy and convenient as tiles can be cleaned even with harsh chemicals.

Carpets and linoleum are not as significant as the other materials but they are convenient décor items due to their affordable pricing.

The use of finishing materials in the most popular interior designs

You are better off decorating your interior with traditional and popular finishing materials. The versatility of traditional décor materials is why they are so common in different interior styles. However, some particular features of using particular materials make them more suitable to specific materials. For example, the brickwork discussed earlier is the main feature of the loft style . Having originated from the United States, brickwork has remained an endearing characteristic of the loft style. Also, stretch ceilings or ceiling panels are rarely used in the loft style. The loft style also features exposed wires on the walls and ceiling, so there is no need to hide them under the finishing materials.

The Scandinavian style, in particular, has gained popularity in the Usa. The style is characterized by minimal furniture and light-colored, preferably white wall and ceiling finishes. You are free to use any finishing materials of your choice, as long as you prioritize pastel shades and minimalist features. One of the main features of the Scandinavian style is the popularity of natural materials. The Scandinavian style embraces the use of natural or artificial wood. For this reason, you can safely install parquet or laminate on the floor, and add wood panels to the accent wall.

For the classical style, the use of plain wallpaper of noble shades is the most suitable solution. You can use wallpaper with large spectacular patterns. As for the ceiling, you can safely experiment using traditional methods of decoration, as well as large stucco molding or original stucco.

As this article has demonstrated, decorating the interior can be quite laborious, especially today, with the wide variety of materials to choose from. However, by studying the advantages and disadvantages of each individual component and making wise decisions with the design, you can easily create a cozy yet practical and long-lasting interior.

Designing a manager’s office in classic style

The office of the head of the organization plays an important role in the functioning of any company. Business partners and potential clients who visit the manager’s office build their impression of the head of the company and ideals of the business based on the outlay of the office. For this reason, the interior of the office of the head should be thought out to the smallest detail. Before embarking on the design of the office, it is essential to first decide on the style. The classic style is particularly suited to such an office, as we will explain in this article.

Use natural materials in interior decoration

Wood serves an important function in the design of the office. While the most common use for wood is in the making of furniture, the material can be used for so much more. A floor made of natural wood or parquet is appealing to the eye. With the aid of unusual masonry and interesting colors, you can use wood to create highlights. In some cases, the ceiling or walls are also covered with wood. However, in this case, it is important to minimize the use of wood.

The color tone for decoration

Designers recommend using natural colors such as brown, beige, gray, and terracotta. Pastel colors are also recommended as they do not irritate or cause distractions that may interfere with work. To prevent the office from looking boring or dull, you can decorate it with bright elements such as having pillows in the recreation area, installing original blinds on the windows, and a lamp on the desk or table.

Furniture made from natural materials

In a manager’s office, there is a separate zone with furniture. Of course, in a classic style office, the furniture used should be made from wood and natural fabrics like leather. While variations can be made depending on the preferences of the boss, the furniture used should strictly be in accordance with the rules of classic design. The wood for the executive’s office should ideally be oak, cherry, or mahogany. Upholstered furniture should be covered only with genuine leather.

Please note that the color of the furniture and that of the walls must align. For instance, if the walls are dark, the furniture should be light and vice versa.

The desk is often the center of attention in the office. The choice of the desk should be done carefully. Ideally, the table should be large and comfortable, with its positioning leaving enough room for occupants. Work items such as notebooks are often placed on the desk and are an accessory on their own. The chair, on the other hand, is ideally made of genuine or eco-leather. It goes without saying that the chair’s head should correspond to the size of the desk and occupant.

It is also important to choose the right cabinets, side tables, shelves, and racks so that office material like documents can be properly put in place. The table and the rest of the furniture in the manager’s office should be of the same style, although the furniture of the relaxation and negotiation areas may be in varying styles.

To make the office appear more modern, it is recommended to use furniture with glass or metal inserts. If you need help arranging a manager’s office, feel free to contact the Dial company here for help.

Negotiation area

Another important place in the head office is the negotiation area. It should be equipped with a long table and chairs for visitors. In some cases, particularly if the office is small, the negotiation area is combined with the working area. Furniture in the meeting area is usually simpler and sometimes more casual, but should still be comfortable.

Proper lighting

Ceiling chandeliers can be used depending on the size of the office. Using wall lights, the office’s functional areas can be distinguished. Remember, there should be enough light so the room does not appear gloomy.

The working area should be illuminated in the best way possible. In addition to central lighting and a discreet chandelier, you use stylish table lamps or wall sconces, floor lamps, and other types of lamps to illuminate the area with cabinets. This way, you will not only take care of the lighting of the cabinet area but also create additional décor for the room.

If the design of the room involves the use of lamps throughout the room, then this is an opportunity worth grabbing. You should ideally select a unique lighting design for each zone of the home.

The general interior of the office of the head can be altered even more to appear unique. To achieve this, you can use several tactics, for instance, hanging creative paintings in massive frames, large vases, installing wall or floor clocks, figurines, certificates, and other kinds of décor suitable for an office.

The Contemporary Interior Style- A Combination of Comfort and Practicality

 

Many people now strive to create practical interiors, a factor that has propelled the spread of contemporary style around the world. The contemporary interior style is now often used to houses, apartments, and even office spaces.

Unlike the excessive conciseness of hi-tech or minimalism styles, contemporary interiors combine functionality with comfort. As a result, this style results in a stylish and original interior, while ensuring the interior is not oversaturated with furniture and decor elements.

How did the contemporary style come about?

Before delving into the specifics of the contemporary style, you need to understand what the term ‘contemporary’ means. The word ‘contemporary’ is basically a synonym of the word ‘modern’. The contemporary style began to take form in the mid-20th century. As the contemporary style emerged, designers started to develop it by skillfully combining features of the Scandinavian style with the minimalist aspects of interior design.

In the early 1950s, the world experienced a large wave of urbanization, necessitating the construction of high-rise buildings since it was difficult to provide residents with adequate housing on limited land. With the wave of urbanization, designers took up the contemporary style as a solution. At the time, the contemporary style was distinguished by a laconic execution and the presence of various decor elements.

As a result of this direction, people acquired diverse decor objects, which were sometimes incompatible as they belonged to different eras and styles, resulting in a rather disorganized style. With time, the contemporary style spread throughout Europe. By then, design and architectural schools began springing up, resulting in the organization and advancement of the contemporary style.

Currently, the contemporary style of the interior has retained its popularity. The combination of laconic furniture, which is easily obtained from stores such as IKEA, with vintage decor elements allows homeowners and designers to bring to life unique variations of this style.

The main features of an interior in a contemporary style

As mentioned above, the contemporary style of interior design does not follow clearly established rules. However, by observing various interiors, one can notice some distinctive features of this style:

  1. The laconic layout of the interior and simplicity in surface finishing.
  2. The use of functional and inexpensive furniture.
  3. Creating coziness in the home using vintage decorative elements.
  4. Proportional lines and extremely smooth surfaces.
  5. Limited use of decorative elements. Further, the few decorative elements used are those that attract attention due to their creative uniqueness.

The original antique clock and floor lamp in this living room easily attract the attention of guests.

  1. Functional furniture: Modular furniture pieces in room such as the living room, since originating from the contemporary style, have become popular globally.
  2. The combination of furniture and decor: While the contemporary style uses extraordinary and bold decor, the décor used should possess at least one common feature.
  3. The abundance of free space: For the contemporary style, decorative partition walls or screens are unnecessary. Room zoning is instead best done using lighting fixtures or shelves.


Minimum furniture, maximum free space

  1. Use of natural materials: Like most modern interior styles, the contemporary interior embraces environmental sustainability. The style is, therefore, heavy on the use of natural materials such as natural wood, marble, granite, organic glass, and genuine leather.

Natural materials are an important feature of contemporary-style interiors

  1. The combination of textures: To spice up the contemporary interior, designers often play with several textures. For example, they combine glass elements with chrome surface, while natural wood goes beautifully in combination with stone.

Surface finish

As mentioned earlier, the contemporary style involves the use of predominantly natural materials. This section focuses on helping you learn just how to use these natural materials. However, it is important to pay attention to the advice of specialists, especially if you are building the house from scratch.

To design an interior contemporary style, you need to select one of the following as a floor covering:

  • Ceramic tile (if necessary, you can install a warm floor system underneath the tiles);
  • Bulk floor;
  • Polished board;
  • Laminate flooring;
  • Carpet

  1. Blackboard as a flooring in a contemporary style living room

The most popular ceiling finishes are:

  • Tension systems;
  • Suspended ceilings;
  • whitewashed or painted ceilings,(done with special white paint).

The choice of materials for wall decoration is also quite diverse. They include:

  • Plaster;
  • Special paint;
  • Wallpaper (mainly paper, textile or non-woven wallpaper);
  • Natural or artificial stone.

Contemporary wall stone

You can also decorate the wall using a combination of several textures. For example, walls made of a combination of stucco and stone or wallpaper come off as beautiful.

Color spectrum

Today, the contemporary style mainly features neutral pastel shades. These shades attract little attention and help to calm down the nervous system. At home, many people hope for coziness and tranquility, away from the hustle and bustle of the world. This can be achieved using gray, beige, or white tones combined with a variety of bright accents. For the background, the contemporary style mainly uses the following colors:

  • White
  • Gray (from light gray to graphite);
  • Brown;
  • Beige.

You can spice up the effect of these background colors with a variety of bright decorative elements. Designers recommend using elements in colors such as blue, orange, green, yellow, red, and purple.

Throw pillows can become a bright accent in a contemporary living room

You are encouraged to be bold and experiment with new combinations. Many experts also recommend playing with contrasts. For example, you can retain the light color of the walls and create contrast by using dark-colored furniture.

Classic interiors: A combination of white and black

However, keep in mind that the rules of interior design recommend that you place no more than two to three bright accent items in a standard single room. Otherwise, the design will appear over-saturated and chaotic.

Choosing furniture for a contemporary interior

When the contemporary style was in its infancy, designers started designing special pieces of furniture. These furniture pieces combined attractive appearance with functionality. In addition, the first contemporary-style furniture was made from inexpensive materials, a factor that made them affordable. The most popular furniture pieces today are:

  1. Modular systems, which contain diverse objects. These include living room walls with cabinets, which are often decorated with items such as books, personal computers, televisions, or used to store items such as clothing.

  1. Folding soft sections: These are furniture pieces that can be folded into different furniture items to serve different functions. An example of such furniture is a sofa, which turns into a double bed or an armchair depending on how it is foldable.
  2. Cabinets with pull-out shelves: This kind of furniture is not easily obtained in stores. However, you can make it to order.
  3. A bed with a built-in storage system, allowing you to store items such as pillows, blankets, and other spare bedding.

  1. Folding tables.

Contemporary Style Room Lighting

As you remember, earlier, the article mentioned that the contemporary style advises against the zoning of a room using partitions. However, designers get around this restriction by designating various functional zones within one room through the use of lighting. It is worth noting that it is not only artificial but also natural light, that achieves this purpose. The important role of natural light is why experts recommend the use of dark heavy curtains in a contemporary interior. Additionally, even a small window is helpful in allowing sunlight to penetrate and light up the house. To get the maximum natural light, place light tulle, transparent curtains, blinds or roller blinds on the windows.

Small rooms especially need natural light.

Speaking of artificial lighting in contemporary interiors, the following popular options should be considered:

  1. Large central chandelier: If the room is tiny and, therefore, unsuitable for a chandelier, you can opt for a laconic ceiling lamp. Remember that a bright and extraordinary chandelier can become the very accent that will make the interior stylish and extraordinary. Hidden lighting, which is made using spotlights and located on shelves or in niches.
  2. Floor lamps, sconces, or table lamps also help to zone the space. For instance, by placing a beautiful floor lamp near a chair, you can highlight the area and distinguish it as a reading zone. A creative desk lamp will look great on your desktop while creating an elaborate zone.

One of the main features of the contemporary style is laconicism and simplicity. Choose luminaires of a geometric shape without undue pomp. The rule here works perfectly: “The simpler, the better“.

Contemporary decor

We can all agree that monochrome pastel shades in the interior can look pretty boring. That is why these shades need to interspersed with bright accents that will attract attention by playing the role of the highlight of the room. A feature of the contemporary style is that various decorative elements may not be combined with each other according to the traditional techniques of execution, as long as the result appeals to the eye.

Therefore, you can choose wall or shelf decorations as you see fit. Moreover, there are plenty to choose from, including:

  • Living plants (Tall palm trees or small decorative flowers);
  • Large vases;
  • Wall Clock;
  • Decorative pillows;

  • Posters
  • Paintings or frames with photographs;
  • Figurines;
  • Mirrors, etc.

Initially, the contemporary style suggested that the decorative elements in the room should carry some meaning to the occupants of the home. Therefore, the décor can include important items such as a vase brought from a tri or a photograph of a dear person or important event.

Contemporary-Style Rooms

The above sections have described in detail the main characteristics of the contemporary interior style. However, each separate room fulfills a certain function and carries a specific energy. For instance, there is no doubt that it is much easier to design a living room in neutral shades compared to a room such as a nursery. But this does not mean that neutral shades cannot be used in rooms such as the nursery. These shades, and other concepts of the contemporary style, are often used differently in various spaces in the house, as the following section demonstrates.

Kitchen

The kitchen is, perhaps, the most functional room in a house or apartment. After all, it is the place where the family gathers to cook and eat. However, for these activities to be done efficiently, the kitchen needs to be both appealing and comfortable. The next section will offer you important directions on achieving this desired effect.

A kitchen in the contemporary style should be as open as possible. For small spaces, it is recommended to use white tones in the decoration of the walls. This color helps to visually increase the area of ​​the room and infuse an airy vibe. Facades of furniture should also be as concise as possible without frills. You should ideally choose furniture pieces with clear geometric shapes and neutral shades. To add bright accents in the kitchen, you can use items such as unusually-designed chairs or original textiles like curtains or tablecloths.

Fancy bar stools in the interior of the kitchen

If you choose an apron for a contemporary kitchen, go with ceramic tile or stone. You should avoid photo printing or the plastic panels that popular today. For tabletops, also use natural materials such as granite. If the kitchen has several functional areas, such as a cooking place and dining room, you can separate them using lighting fixtures. Place pendant or spotlights above the working area, and you can place a beautiful floor lamp near the dining table, thus distinguishing the two areas.

Bedroom

The interior of many bedrooms is characterized by the lack of bright colors, as this technique allows relaxation. The contemporary bedroom is no exception. Decorating the walls, ceiling, and floor in beige tones will soothe the eyes, and a stylish bright poster or large mirror will add originality to the interior.

Another feature that you can use when decorating a bedroom is a wardrobe. Aside from the bed, the wardrobe is the most functional item in the bedroom and is able to accommodate a huge amount of clothing and a variety of household items. To visually increase the area of ​​the room, you can select a cabinet with a mirror facade.

Hallway

The contemporary-style corridor should be properly lit. If you have an elongated hallway, use additional lighting or spotlights. In decorating hallway walls, it is advisable to choose paint, natural or decorative stone, or plaster. A sliding wardrobe, which is an iconic piece of furniture in the style of contemporary style, will help preserve the already limited space in the room while providing storage for clothing and household appliances such as the vacuum cleaner and ironing board.

The main idea when designing the bedroom is ensuring convenient access to every item in the room i.e., it should be convenient for you to access clothing, accessories, and other items such as umbrellas without encountering an obstacle such as a standing cabinet, bench, or shoe rack.

Living room

The living or drawing room is a room in which the whole family gathers after a hard day. Therefore, comfort paramount. In many houses and apartments, the living room has the largest number of windows, which automatically makes it the brightest room. For a contemporary living room, try to avoid heavy curtains and leave the windows as open as possible. As a last resort, you can hang a light transparent tulle, as illustrated in the picture below.

The most common color scheme for the living room is white and beige shades, particularly in the decoration of walls and ceilings. You can fix the monotony in the room with the help of bright pieces of furniture which act as accents. Such items can be an armchair or sofa. If you do not want to risk large accents, use colorful pillows, rugs, candles, or other available items as decoration elements.

Children’s room

Several years ago, many parents preferred to use bright colors in decorating walls for children’s rooms. However, today this trend is outdated. Modern designers recommend using basic pastel colors in the children’s rooms, as these colors help the child to calm active children and enable them to relax before bedtime.

As bright accent spots, you can add your children’s favorite toys, as well as unusual pieces of furniture. The functionality of the contemporary style will come in handy in the children’s room. In the sections under the bed, for instance, you can store toys, while a folding table can save space. Teenagers, on the other hand, are bound to appreciate the abundance of closed storage systems as they make it easier to stay organized.

By the way, try using rugs or carpets as an accent. In addition to the aesthetic function, rugs and carpets offer excellent protection for young children who like to sit on the floor.

Bathroom

It is important to note that the contemporary style is not limited to the bedroom, living room, or kitchen. This style can also be used in the bathroom. Such a design as used in the bathroom is characterized by:

The presence of straight lines and simple silhouettes. This can be achieved by installing washbasins, tables, and chandeliers, made in a minimalist style. It is best to select solid-colored elements.


Bright bathroom in a contemporary style

Special lighting: As already mentioned above, the contemporary style in the interior maximizes the penetration of natural light. This principle applies to the bathroom, in which most often a window opening is absent. To make the room brighter, a variety of lighting devices are used. For instance, the main pendant light and spotlight are combined in some parts of the bathroom, such as on shelves, on the mirror near the washbasin, and near the shower.

Many note that the contemporary style is reminiscent of Scandinavian motifs. For example, in both styles, pastel shades are used and bright decorative elements are used. However, the contemporary style stands out for one of its important features – a reminder of different historical eras and a mixture of several styles. For instance, in the living room, laconic furniture is combined with luxurious decor, whereas in the bedroom, a vase with oriental patterns looks pretty.

Regardless, all the features and principles discussed in this article allow you to create a unique interior that fully reflects the character of the owner of the house.

Loft style in the interior – Features and design ideas

As an interior design style, loft originated in the 1940s. America became its homeland, mainly since at the time, there was a rise in the rental value of buildings, forcing many inhabitants out of the city and into the suburbs.

Due to this movement, residential buildings began to crop up in commercial and industrial zones. Creatives such as artists and musicians copied the interior design of the industries, falling in love with the appeal of the brick walls, wooden beams and huge metal pipes. With this movement, the loft style emerged. With a few years of evolution, designers got the idea to solidify the loft style, a new and unique style of interior décor that combines practicality and creativity.

Features of loft style in the interior of a house or apartment

A few years after its inception, the popularity of the loft style went beyond America, as more Europeans started embracing the style.

Over the decades, interior designers have identified several rules which you can easily follow in creating the unique atmosphere of the loft style in the interior, without making drastic changes to the original structure. Loft style is highly suited to creative individuals who distinguish themselves through creativity and bold non-standard approaches, especially with regard to decorating their homes.

The word ‘loft’ is essentially a synonym for attic and storage. This is no accident because in itself, a loft interior is reminiscent of a workshop or factory. Among the main features of the loft style are:

  • The loft is the most open layout of an apartment or house. For the most part, the loft is suitable for studio apartments, since they lack extra walls and partitions, enabling the ideal loft set-up. In any case, try to make the space as open as possible.
  • High ceilings with huge beams, ventilation grills, massive metal pipes etc.


A high ceiling is a must in a loft style room

  • Minimal or ideally no wall decor. Decorating a loft style interior is a tricky affair. The appeal of the loft style is that the building should appear unfinished, which means careless plastering, rough masonry on the walls and heavy use of concrete. These elements of the wall should be made visible, which is why wall décor is discouraged in the loft interior.
  • Maximum penetration of natural light. Massive curtains and blinds are not relevant for a loft, to allow in as much light as possible. Besides, loft interiors are meant to be light and airy.
  • The original concept of the loft featured a fireplace, which was used to heat a large open space. Today, the fireplace serves a decorative, rather than practical function, but remains mandatory for an ideal loft interior.
  • Duplex apartment.If the ceiling in the room is quite high, you can as well create a second additional level. On this second level, designers often create a small study or bedroom, thus creating a duplex apartment.

Further remember that one of the main features of loft interiors is the presence of a massive and rough staircase, using which you can climb to the second tier.

  • Neutral tones.Most often, brown, gray, beige, black or white shades are used for decorating loft style designs. As an accent, you can add a few brighter colors or décor pieces.


Light gray loft style kitchen

Variations of the loft style in modern interiors

It is almost impossible to come across original loft style designs today, mainly because modern interiors tend to mix many different design styles. To embellish your loft interior, designers recommend the following variations of the loft style:

  1. Bohemian.In this case, the traditional appearance of the loft style is maximally preserved. However, you can choose bolder and more refined furniture. The combination of rough walls and frayed elements, combined with a massive elegant sofa or armchair allows you to create a unique and at the same time cozy loft interior. Also, as decor, various art objects are absolutely appropriate here. These can be paintings, figurines, framed mirrors and so on.


Bohemian loft in the interior of an apartment

  1. Glamorous loft looks more elegant and minimalistic than the bohemian version of the style. The key feature of the glamorous loft is the combination of pastel shades and brighter colors. With respect to decor elements, attention should be paid to lighting devices. Original fixtures, massive chandeliers, LED lights or classic floor lamps beautifully complement the loft basics. Massive old mirrors, living plants in large concrete pots, original carpeting or imitations of animal hides on the floor also spruce up the loft interior.


Glamorous loft – Minimalistic and spotting bright accents

  1. Industrial loft. This is the most classic version of the loft style and accurately resembles a factory interior. Its main attributes are exposed metal pipes, ventilation systems, wooden ceiling beams and adequate unmasked wiring along the perimeter of the home. The furniture in such an interior should combine practicality with an attractive appeal.

Industrial loft in the interior of the kitchen

Loft style room lighting

Since a loft-style room is most often one large and open space, you should think in terms of diverse lighting. In this case, one central chandelier may not be enough to sufficiently light up the room.

Multi-level lighting in a loft style room

In addition, with multi-level light sources, you can zone the room, dividing it into several functional areas. Many lighting devices fit beautifully into loft style interiors. The main idea to remember is that you need to choose chandeliers or floor lamps that are suitable for loft style, as well as ensuring the lighting fixtures align with the color scheme and dimensions of the room. The most popular options are:

  1. Central chandeliers. Often, chandeliers are inappropriate for loft interiors. Rather, chandeliers are more suitable for the bohemian variation of the loft style. However, the combination of cold concrete and careless plaster goes beautifully with a chandelier with a metal frame and a glass or crystal lampshade, making the interior unique.
  2. Pendant lamps. These lights are characteristic to the loft style. Most often they are placed in a row. In addition to the aesthetic function, pendant lamps provide an even distribution of light across the room.
  3. Floor lamps. Traditional versions of floor lamps are not always appropriate for the loft style. Therefore, for an enhanced look, try to find original and non-standard solutions for floor lamps. For example, many designers recommend installing studio lights or spotlights. These lights fit perfectly into the interior, creating the atmosphere of a photo or film studio.

The spotlight in the interior of the room

  1. LED backlight. This light is more functional than aesthetic. It is relevant for rooms with a small area. Such a lighting device will make the room brighter, without taking up too much space.

Loft style room decoration

The décor of the room plays a primary role in the perception of the interior. Therefore, it is important to perfect even the smallest details in the room. An important principle of the loft style is the combination of artificially aged and modern urban elements. The emphasis is on the following parts of the room:

  1. The walls. An apartment in loft style should have as few internal walls as possible. This is because walls reduce the space available to work with, limiting the owner from fully expressing his or her style.

As elements for zoning, it is advisable to choose items like racks, screens, glass panels, etc. When choosing the shade of the walls, remember to include industrial motives. Therefore, if possible, leave the walls untouched, whether they feature brickwork, sloppy plaster or any other elements. You can also paint the walls, ideally in gray, white, beige or dark blue colors. Designers advise against using wallpaper in such a room. However, if you prefer wallpaper, go for models that imitate concrete, stone or brickwork.


Brickwork – Loft Classic

  1. Floor. The original interior in the loft style involves the use of concrete as a floor covering. However, this material has one significant drawback – it is too cold, and therefore impractical for use in residential premises. Therefore, you should consider alternatives such as:
  • Parquet;
  • Laminate flooring;
  • Ceramic tile;
  • Artificial stone.

Flooring can also be a great way of zoning a space, by using different floor types for different zones of the room. This technique looks unique and can significantly transform your room.

Floor covering as room zoning

  1. The ceiling. If the room has a rather high ceiling, then you can spruce up the loft by using exposed wooden beams or ventilation pipes to decorate the ceiling. In this case, natural wood can serve as a finishing material. On the other hand, if the room has a low ceiling, it is enough to level it with plaster and paint it in a light shade.
  2. The windows. If possible, you can install panoramic windows on the floor. This is the option provided for the traditional American loft. Frames for windows should be wooden or imitate natural wood. Remember that the maximum amount of sunlight should get into the room, so avid curtains if you can. If you need to periodically cut off the natural lighting, it is better to choose roller blinds or other types of blinds, instead of curtains.

Loft style room decoration

A lot of work goes into turning an ordinary interior into the perfect loft. Every stylistic decision is critical, which makes it better to hire a professional interior designer.

The first step is ensuring you have as much free space as possible. Try to get rid of load-bearing walls or interior partitions, if not completely, then at least partially. You can replace the walls and partitions with other objects used in zoning of space, including:

  1. Large pieces of furniture such as sofas and shelves.
  2. Glass partitions.
  3. Different flooring for each zone.
  4. Various lighting devices.
  5. Accent walls, etc.

Sofa as a way of zoning a room

Also make sure you seal off private areas like the bedroom, bathroom and pantry from the immediate view of the eye.

The pantry should be created separately because it is an important part of the loft style.

If you want to visually unload the space as much as possible, you should think about creating an additional utility room, where you can store household appliances and other items you don’t use regularly.

Of course, each separate room in the loft style has its own unique decor. Regardless, the loft style has several small attributes that are appropriate to all rooms. These include:

  • Posters
  • Sculptures and figurines;
  • Original vases, antique décor, etc.

Loft style living room – Practicality and comfort

Most often, the loft style living room combines several functional areas. For example, it has a place for relaxation, meetings with friends, a study and even a dining room. If you are the owner of a studio apartment, then the living room also includes a sleeping area. Due to the several purposes the space serves, it is important to correctly zone the space and think through all the details. Only then can the final result look as harmonious as possible. Here are a few expert tips to achieving a unique and stylish loft living room:

  1. Perform zoning of the space with the help of additional pieces of furniture and decor. For instance, a bar counter or kitchen island can distinguish between the recreation and cooking areas.
  2. Clearly designate each separate zone. For instance, in the office, you will have a work desk. The eating area has a dining table and chairs. In the recreation area, you will need a armchairs or a sofa.
  3. Shades that are used in decorating the living room are standard for the loft style. These are black, gray or beige tones in combination with red brick or natural wood. Brighter tones are best used as accents.
  4. Provide the maximum amount of natural light. It’s better to have several large windows in your living room. Avoid hanging curtains or tulles on them, since the room should always be well-lit.
  5. The lighting fixtures used in the living room may resemble high-tech products. Concise and simple floor lamps or pendant lamps are most appropriate for plaster, concrete or brick walls.
  6. If the space is open and quite large, the use of small furniture will be an illogical technique. Give preference to massive and vibrant pieces. By the way, it is sofas, armchairs or shelves that most often become accent elements in the loft style. Therefore, do not be afraid to experiment, while remembering to choose non-standard shades for unique interiors.
  7. Get rid of excess furniture. Each element should fulfil a practical function, and not just fill the space up for aesthetics.

Loft style living room

Kitchen Loft – rules for implementation

If your entire apartment is made in the traditional loft style, then most likely your kitchen is combined with the living room. Therefore, it is important that the kitchen design resonates with that of the living room. However, if the kitchen is isolated behind walls or a door, then you can deviate from the standard loft kitchen design. Regardless of the arrangement, there are several rules for the design of the loft kitchen, including:

  1. Use of large and original household appliances. The loft interior is designed to resemble factories and industrial workshops. Therefore, it is not surprising that huge refrigerators, ovens and dishwashers fit perfectly here.
  2. Do not forget about small kitchen appliances. In addition to the practical function served by small appliances, they can also become an excellent element of decor. Toasters, coffee machines, microwaves and electric kettles are some of the small appliances that beautifully complement the loft kitchen, especially if they are of the same style.
  3. The main materials in the loft kitchen are glass and chrome. These materials are concise and simple; at the same time helping you attain a unique look. For walls,the traditional brickwork works best, whereas for floors, go with tiles or self-levelling floors that imitate concrete.
  4. When choosing furniture, try to select only the necessary pieces. Remember that the loft style pursues minimalism in the design of spaces, and the kitchen is no exception.

Loft style kitchen

Loft style bedroom

People generally spend a lot of time in the bedroom. Therefore, it is so important that the room is both practical and comfortable. The loft style is particularly relevant to this regard since it involves the exclusive use of functional and original elements.

In a one-room apartment, the bedroom is equipped in the living room. While the rules of the loft style stress on creating open spaces, for single rooms and studios, designers recommend trying to hide the sleeping area as much as possible from prying eyes. This can be done using a wall, although it is best to give preference to special partitions. If the height of the ceilings allows you to create a second tier of the room, then you can place a bed there, thereby concealing the sleeping area and saving space.

Glass partitions for zoning the bedroom

Loft is characterized by the use of natural materials –such as stone, wood and metal. In addition to their aesthetic function, these materials are environmentally friendly and safe for humans. In addition, natural materials give the room a cosy and relaxing atmosphere.

If you do not want to leave brickwork on all walls, use the accent wall technique, which is so characteristic of loft bedrooms. Most often this is the area that is located at the head of the bed. All other walls can succumb to any decoration at your discretion. Many people prefer to use wallpaper because of the ease of installation and affordable cost. If you opt for wallpaper, ensure you choose a suitable shade and pattern of the canvas.

Loft style bedroom

Bathroom

A few years ago, people preferred to design a bathroom more traditionally and routinely. To do this, light ceramic tiles with marine patterns were often used. However, today, with an abundance of style trends for the design of each room, it is important to reconsider the design and décor of the bathroom. The loft, like other styles, appears unique and practical if done right.

Of course, ceramic tiles are still the best option for decorating the walls and floor of the bathroom. However, this fact does not mean that you have to use traditional motifs. Consider models that imitate stone or concrete, as they become an excellent element of any room in loft style. Also, one-colour tiles in calm and seasoned tones like grey, beige and brown are perfect.

The selection of plumbing for the bathroom is quite varied. Therefore, carefully approach the choice of washbasin and bathtub. Despite the minimalism that is provided in the loft, such installations should be original and have clear geometric shapes. A separate but important component of any bathroom is the mirror. If the area of ​​the room allows, use a large mirror, placing it along the whole wall. Regardless of its design, the mirror should be stylish, effective and in accordance with all the rules of the loft style.

Loft style bathroom

Children’s room in the loft style – How to design

The loft style itself is quite brutal and, therefore, most suited for adults. However, you can as well create it in a children’s room. For the loft style to appeal to children, stylists recommend that you abide by the following rules:

  • Create large windows that provide plenty of natural light;
  • Create an open space that can be used for playing and entertainment;
  • Use natural materials as they are less likely to harm the children.

In addition, decorative wooden beams, pipes and stairs can serve as excellent decor. Also, make sure that the design of the room offers maximum safety to children.

Another advantage of using installing the loft style in a children’s room is that this area does not need to follow any strict rules. Therefore, you can alter the design to suit your children. One way to do this is by creating special panels on which children can draw. These panels fit perfectly into the design and allow kids to express their artistic side.

As you can see, the loft style is universal and timeless. Almost a century ago, it was the last resort for poor artists who rented apartments in former factory floors, which is why, as we explained earlier in the article, rooms made in the loft style are more like creative workshops. Today, this method of designing space is popular all over the world. It is especially perfect for one-room apartments or studios in which open space is a prerequisite. If you value creativity combined with minimalism and practicality – a loft is exactly what suits you!

Lovely Tips for Designing Your Girl’s Bedroom

A girl’s bedroom presents a great opportunity to express imagination and turn even a small room into a comfortable space for the girl to develop, play and express herself. However, the design of a girl’s bedroom also presents a challenge to most parents, particularly since decorating a girl’s bedroom is about more than just incorporating décor. You also need to pay attention to the finishing materials, making sure the materials are safe and visually pleasant.

Luckily for you, by the end of this article, you will have learnt all the expert tips you need to efficiently and beautifully design and decorate a girl’s bedroom.

Principles for setting up a girl’s bedroom

Having undergone childhood, you no doubt know that the stage carries great importance, setting the foundation for the child’s views, values, and other important aspects. Therefore, while you should create the bedroom to allow maximum comfort and relaxation, also remember to make allowances for the wholesome development of the child. For instance, you can create a bookshelf and study table, which will allow your child to read children’s books or engage in other fun developmental activities such as painting.

Essentially, you need to ensure the girl’s bedroom is partitioned into the following zones:

  • A playing area;
  • A sleeping area;
  • A zone for creativity (for preschoolers) or study (for school-going children).

Pay attention! First, it is of absolute importance to ensure the design of the room is safe, especially if the child occupying it is very young.

Designing a girl’s bedroom according to age

The furniture, color palette, and style are just some of the factors that vary according to the age of the child. The décor in the room should also reflect the personality of the child.

Pay attention to the tips below;

Designing a room for a girl aged three or below

As the child grows out of infant-hood, you will need to change the design of the nursery into a bedroom. The most important elements you need to pay attention to are the comfort and safety of the baby. Therefore, make room for the crib, changing table and chair, on which you can hold and rock your baby girl.

Try to avoid sharp corners, as they pose a danger to the child when she begins to move.

Girl aged 3-5

At this age, it is important for the child to play as much as possible, which is why you should provide toys in the room. Also consider a convenient storage system, not just for the toys, but also for other items such as clothing. Dressers and lockers especially help to maintain order in the room, while helping the child to learn the importance of being orderly and cleaning up after herself.

A table is a necessity in the bedroom of a girl of this age, enabling your daughter to draw, paint, sculpt, glue crafts and engage in other fun developmental activities.

Bedroom for a girl aged 6-8

From the first grade, the girl will need a separate study table with compartments for books, notebooks, albums and other items. An activity corner is also important, as it will help your child to stay active, while developing her skills and hobbies.

At school-going age, the girl is already old enough to master the computer. Therefore, you should reduce the playing area and set up a computer table.

Tip: Be sure to monitor the comfort of your child. Poor quality furniture may cause discomfort that will eventually result in complications for the child, such as posture problems.

Teenage Girl Room Interior

As girls grow older, their interests become more specific. Therefore, you can allow the girl more freedom in making choices such as the design style, furniture type, and space organization of the bedroom. This will not only make the girl happy, but also teach her to discipline, creativity and organization.

Teenagers express themselves through their décor and style choices, which is why it is important to give them freedom in designing and decorating the bedroom. The girl might, for instance, put up posters of her favorite singers on the walls.

Designing a nursery

There are no restrictions when choosing a style for the interior of the girl’s bedroom. However, the most popular style options are:

  1. Modern: This is an ideal solution for older girls, such as those who have just moved to high school. Teenagers do not need space to play, /li>

  1. Classic: Younger girls are especially bound to love this style. The classic style in a girl’s bedroom is often characterized by warm colors, while furniture is made from natural wood. Canopies, hanging over the bed act as curtains, but accentuate the classic bedroom particularly beautifully.

  1. Provence: The delicate French interior is characterized by an abundance of floral motifs on the finishing surfaces such as ceilings, walls, and the floor, as well as on the facades of furniture.The most popular shades are pink, mint, and purple.

Fashionable colors in the design of a room for a girl

As she gets older, the girl will spend more and more time in her room. Therefore, it is important to select the right shade of the walls, as it can significantly affect the girl’s psyche. Creating a cozy atmosphere is your first priority, so you need to select an appropriate color. The most suited shades include:

  1. Mint:A calm shade that allows you to relax and sleep with ease.

Snow-white: A universal color that is complemented by any other shade.

Pink: The pastel pink color is extremely popular among young girls. It symbolizes tenderness and femininity and is, therefore, a great choice.

Gray: Like white, it can be combined with any bright accent.

Beige: It infuses the room with warmth and comfort. You can use it alone or combine it with shades such as soft lemon, peach, or gold.

Important! – Avoid red or saturated ‘acid’ shades as they are irritating to the eyes and psyche of children.

Kids’ room decoration

Before buying furniture for a girl’s bedroom, you need to figure out which decoration materials you will use for the finishing, i.e. the ceiling, walls and floor.

Ceiling

The best choice is the classic white ceiling, which can either be whitewashed or painted. Such a ceiling can easily be changed if you get bored with the initial color, through styles such as creating patterns on the ceiling. However, if you are undecided or dislike patterns, a minimalist design is the best choice.

Walls

As children are generally artistic, it is advisable to choose wall decor, giving preference to materials that are easy to maintain.

The most popular option for a nursery is wallpaper, a choice preferred as it is environmentally friendly, easy to glue and dismantle, and easily cleaned with water and detergent. In addition, it is easy to find a varied selection of wallpaper, from plain variants, to those with prints and others with different textures.

Floor

It is advisable you select a non-slippery material for the floor. Since children like running around the room, one awkward movement can cause serious injuries if the floor is slippery.

Another selection criterion is the health friendliness of the materials. It is especially important to pay attention to this criterion if the child has allergies.

Make sure the floor is easy to clean, particularly if your children leave a mess while playing.

For such active children, it is advisable to choose a carpet or laminate, under which you can install a warm floor system. For an older girl, a laminate or parquet is suitable, but you can go ahead and decorate it with a carpet.

Furniture for a girl’s nursery

The furniture in the girl’s room should be practical. Avoid buying items that are too tall, as it will be difficult for the child to use them on their own.

It is advisable to give preference to furniture made from natural materials like wood. Wood is an especially commendable choice as it is strong, anti-allergenic and friendly health wise.

The choice of the bed is perhaps the most essential factor. Since young girls idolize princesses, you can buy a fairytale-themed bed, decorated with carvings or canopies.

Like other furniture, the storage system should be within the reach of the child. Tall tables, bookshelves, chests of drawers and shelves are, therefore, out of the question for a small girl’s room. However, they are suitable for a teenage girl’s bedroom.

Lighting and decor elements in a girl’s room

The arrangement of lighting devices depends on the age of the girl. However, the room should be illuminated as well as possible, using both natural and artificial light sources. Be sure to install additional lamps above the bed, especially if your daughter likes to read before bedtime, and on the desktop, to prevent the girl from straining her eyes.

Indoor plants are an ideal décor item for a girl’s bedroom. First, this is because they give comfort and release oxygen, thus giving the room freshness and airiness. Secondly, by putting up indoor plants in the girl’s bedroom, you can teach her how to care of plants through methods like pruning and watering. This way, she will learn about responsibility too.

Other highly suitable décor elements for a girl’s bedroom are:

  • Posters and paintings;
  • Figurines;
  • Jewelry boxes;
  • Framed photos;
  • Throw pillows.

Bedroom for two girls

In the case where the room is designed for two girls, you should create separate areas for the girls to play, study and sleep.

An excellent solution lies in the use of the following:

Bunk bed: This bed design not only saves space, but is also especially liked by young children. You just need to choose a reliable and durable design.

Attic bed: This arrangement is characterized by creating a sleeping area at the top of the structure, and a working or playing area underneath the sleeping area.

As for the style of room décor, if the preferences of the children coincide, you can easily create a wholesome design. Otherwise, choose neutral motives that will satisfy both girls.

Tips to nailing the perfect design for a young girl’s bedroom

In most layouts, the children’s room is small. Luckily, there are several simple methods with which you can visually stretch the space, making it appear larger.

These include:

  • The style of the interior: The ideal choices are minimalist, modern or Scandinavian as they are concise and practical, saving you space.
  • Light-colored wall decor:Snow-white, beige and muted tones allow you to visually enlarge the room.

  • Minimum furniture.

  • An abundance of light: Using large windows and several types of lighting devices significantly improve the perception of the room.

  • Use practical items such as lighting devices and furniture for décor, as this tactic helps you cut on the usage of space.
  • Solid-colored walls or wallpaper with horizontal or vertical stripes visually expand the space.

Even with all the tips highlighted in the article, always remember to seek the opinion of the children when designing the bedroom, regardless of how young they are — as they are the ones who will occupy it. Ask your daughter what exactly she would like to see in her bedroom. Perhaps she may have even more insightful ideas on creating an original bedroom.

Functional design of a loft-style studio apartment

Initially, the loft-style was for apartments that were converted from storage facilities, implying the availability of a large and open space. With this idea, it is already clear that it is not easy to realize all the elements of a loft in a small one-room apartment, as the space is limited.

For instance, in an apartment where the total area is 43 square meters and the living area even less, it was difficult fo to reproduce the classic loft that customers badly wanted. This challenge is particularly because it is important to reproduce all the features of the style and at the same time maintain the spaciousness and functionality.

Let’s take a look at how the loft-style can be successfully incorporated into a one-bedroom apartment.

Features of the loft-style in an apartment interior

Designing a studio apartment is a real challenge for many designers since the limited space does not allow full creativity. At the same time, it is important to make remodels in a seasoned style so that the result looks as harmonious as possible. The features of the loft-style that can easily be embodied in a one-room apartment are:

  • The abundance of light. Ideally, the apartment should have at least one large window that provides the maximum amount of natural light. If the windows in the apartment are small, lighting devices will come to the rescue.
  • The use of natural materials. Everything from furniture to decor elements should be made of glass, metal, stone, wood or any other natural material. The loft-style does not favor the use of artificial materials such as plastic.
  • The dominant shades for this kind of interior are gray, beige, black and brown. As an accent, you can use objects in red, green, blue or yellow.
  • The loft-style shuns carvings, crystal chandeliers, luxurious three-layer tulles or any other element that speaks of luxury. Loft is about simplicity and restraint.

Loft style room décor

It is important to choose the right finishing materials for the loft interior, even before you begin the remodeling process since finishing materials form the basis of any repair. Therefore, it is important to focus on high-quality finishes that can last for years. Therefore, the factors you need to observe include:

  1. Loft style walls. Brickwork is a classic solution for loft interiors. However, this is not the only finish you can use. Today, you can decorate the walls of a loft apartment with various materials, ranging from 3D panels to plasterboard. These materials make for an ideal solution If you want a more minimalist design, level the surface of the wall and paint it. When remodeling an apartment into a loft-style, it is advisable to combine several different types of finishes, thus zoning the space.

  1. You ought to pay special attention to the floor. As stated earlier in the article, finishing materials should preferably be made from naturally occurring materials. Therefore, the floor can be made from parquet, parquet board, ceramic tile or any other natural material. It is visually more appealing to lay the same floor covering throughout the apartment, so the interior appears uniform and complete.

Tip: Please note that for the kitchen area you should choose a moisture-resistant floor covering to avoid damage.

  1. The ceiling in the loft apartment should ideally be white. As for the finish itself, both ordinary whitewashing and (as in this project) stretch matte ceilings are suitable.

Furniture for a loft-style studio

When choosing furniture for a one-room apartment loft, every item must be universal. It is also important to use the space profitably, avoiding cluttering it with extra chairs, ottomans, tables, and other unnecessary items.

  1. Kitchen. For a loft-style studio apartment with two occupants, a bar counter will be ideal for the kitchen. The bar takes up little space, fits perfectly into the interior, and completely copes with the main function.

It is generally better to go with built-in kitchen furniture for a loft apartment, enabling the multifunctional use of furniture pieces. For instance, a table can be used both for dining and storage, thus saving space.

Facades should be simple, without decorative inserts. Armchairs can also be a great accent in the interior, especially if the selection is non-standard creative models made in bright shades.

  1. Living room. The main attribute of the loft-style living room is the sofa. The design and positioning of the sofa must be convenient, aside from being beautiful. To ensure the sofa succinctly fits into the interior, it is best to dwell on light pastel shades. If you want the sofa to form a contrast in the room, then go for brighter models. Be sure to place a coffee table near the sofa. It will become not only a functional item but also an element of decor.
  1. Workplace. If you have to study or work at home, make sure you have a desk. You can hide it in a small niche to get a sense of privacy and save space, a trick that Is necessary for a one-room apartment.

Lighting

Loft-style lighting performs two functions simultaneously:

  • Practical function;
  • Decorative function.

An important factor in the comfort of a small apartment is the presence of a large window, as already mentioned. The allure of loft-style interiors is destroyed by massive curtains, with designers preferring to leave the window completely open, thereby providing sufficient natural lighting across the interior. However, if you want privacy, you can use roller blinds in the place of curtains.

Important! The loft-style prefers darker tones in the decoration of rooms. Gray walls can visually reduce the space of an already small apartment. Therefore, it is important to correctly place fixtures, floor lamps or sconces throughout the entire area.

To achieve the best-lit apartment, you need to place as many lighting devices as possible throughout the space. In this case, an optimal solution lies in the combination of spotlights throughout the ceiling with pendant chandeliers that highlight the dining area.

Loft lighting fixtures are usually made of metal and may resemble a projector in some way.

Tip: Additional lighting in the working part of the kitchen is also important. Spotlights near the countertops and stoves will allow you to cut food and prepare dinner as safely as possible.

Loft and décor

The loft-style interior shuns the use of a large number of decorative elements, including frames and figurines on shelves. The main decor in this interior is original posters, ranging from motivational labels to black and white shots in frames.

Also, you can decorate a studio apartment in the loft-style using:

  • Wall clock;
  • Open storage systems (just place books or cacti, for example, on open shelves);
  • Large indoor plants that give the interior freshness;
  • Throw pillows on the sofa.

Of course, the use of these décor materials does not result in a pure loft style. However, designers now take into account the wishes of customers and adapt the project to their wishes. In the modern rhythm of life, many prefer practicality over everything else, even in the interior. Experts adhered to this concept for this project, managing to combine a daring loft-style with laconic minimalism.