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Archive for the ‘Family Room Furniture & Design Ideas’ Category

From the Design Files of Heather B. – Paint Color for a Living Room, Dining Room & Family Room

Monday, January 18th, 2010

Design Question

Room 1

Could you please help me in selecting some paint colors that will go with the current decoration of this living room, dining room and family room? I like greens, mustards, blues, browns and reds. However, I do not like too dark colors on the walls.

Room 2

We are not planning to change the dining set or living room furniture or curtains anytime time soon. Dining and living room have high ceilings. Family room does not. Dining room and living room are together. Attached are some pictures.

Design Answer

Since there are no plans to replace the furniture or curtains, I would select colors that match or complement the living room furniture. Paint colors are from Sherwin-Williams.

Option #1

Option 1

Choose two colors, one light (Lemon Drop or Sagey) for the majority of the space. Then select an accent wall, like the one with the windows, and apply the darker color (Escape Gray or Clary Sage) to it.

Option #2

Option 2

Choose one color for the walls of all three rooms. Again, selecting shades that match the sofa in the living room.

Option #3

Option 3

Paint the living room and dining room (Mauve Finery or Inspired Lilac) a different color than the family room (Golden Fleece or Edgy Gold).

Thanks for writing in. Stay tuned next Monday when we tackle another interior design question. And don’t forget to keep sending me those emails!

To view other entries in the “Design Files Of Heather B.” series, click here.

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Glamorous Hollywood style

Tuesday, December 15th, 2009

Nelly Upholstered Platform

Hollywood, in its heyday, from around the early 1930s to the mid-1950s, was renowned for its glamour and glitz. Men and women dressed to the nines in evening wear and beautiful, flowing gowns. Hollywood style interiors were dramatic, larger-than-life and daring. Yet Hollywood glam was also theatrically romantic. Above all it is daring and definitely makes a statement. Hollywood glam décor is characterized by rich velvets, mirrored tabletops and drawer fronts, impressive chandeliers and glitter. Old Hollywood style shone the spotlight on the person in the room. The result was lavish and sensual; the focus was on indulgence and luxury. 

Hollywood Glam for the Bedroom 

Hollywood glam décor is perfect for the bedroom where sensual, luxurious and romantic will never be out of place. Start with the color white. Add a button-tufted headboard. Choose something from the Hollywood Palm Collection by Murray Feiss to shed some light in your room. With its elaborate openwork detailing, these lighting fixtures and table lamps perfectly capture the essence of Hollywood style glamour. The bed bench is a must-have accent piece; the curved metal cabriole legs emphasizing its romantic nature.

 Hollywood Glam for the Bathroom 

Sink Vanity

Wake up your bathroom with some Hollywood glamour reminiscent of Rita Hayworth, Carole Lombard and Ingrid Bergman. Nothing says “glamorous” like mirrored surfaces, marble counter tops and polished nickel drawer pulls. This particular bathroom vanity has decorative molding and a beautiful serpentine front that gives it an undulating appearance as well as a luxuriant romantic feel.

Sink Vanity

 Hollywood Glam for the Living Room

 Furniture Chaise Lounge

Scottsdale Cocktail Table

Select furniture that is oversized and theatrical. The backs and arms of sofas, couches, occasional chairs and armchairs should be curved, with flowing lines and dramatic profiles. Decorative detail, while elaborate, should not be too busy, but instead restrained in luxuriantly stylized manner. This style is all about the details. Add brocaded throw pillows to the sofa or club chair. Make sure to include table lamps in highly polished silver or richly gilded bronze. 

No matter what room in your home you choose to give a Hollywood glam look to begin with a color scheme that will create a sense of glamour such as luxuriant creams, chocolate shades, whites and jeweled hues including jade, ruby and turquoise. Furniture pieces should be beautiful to look at, with plenty of curves and embellishments. The room should be textured with gold leaf, lacquered surfaces or lacquered hardware, diamond or cut glass accents and plenty of fur, either in the guise of upholstered sofas or chairs or as accent pillows and cushions. Don’t forget to accessorize with mirrors, bigger and more opulent the frame, the better.

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Please not Elvis’ Jungle Room?

Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009

The story of Elvis Presley’s rags-to-riches story is well-documented and the home he made for himself at Graceland became the embodiment of his amazing success. It surprised me to find out that Elvis made many of the interior design decisions himself – I don’t know; it just seemed incongruous to me that the King of Rock n Roll would concern himself with color palettes, matching window treatments and accessorizing. But it makes sense, with all the craziness that surrounded a music icon like Elvis, for him to be a secret nester at heart; to want to create a place where he could be himself and one that he could share with close friends.

Princeton Leather Recliner

Rumor has it that the Jungle Room was Elvis’ favorite room of the house. The interior design inspiration was Elvis’ travels in Hawaii and his love of the Hawaiian Islands. Sofas and chairs were upholstered in faux fur; floor and ceiling (yes, you read that correctly, even the ceiling) was covered in green shag carpet; and the entire room was furnished in Witco, a type of furniture created by William Westenhaver that gained popularity in the early 1960s. It was blocky, flamboyantly carved and had an overall appearance probably most politely described as tacky. Again in keeping with the Hawaiian theme, the entire end wall of the room itself was outfitted with a waterfall – somewhat of a disappointment to Elvis as in constantly kept flooding. It even boasted a Tiki home bar complete with matching stools. 

There is a deep seated fear amongst interior designers and interior decorators that at some point in their careers they will be asked to decorate a “jungle room” for one of their clients. But why not? Maybe the Jungle Room isn’t to everyone’s taste, but the whole point of decorating a room, whether you’ve hired someone else to do it for you or you are doing it yourself, is to create a space that is pleasing and comfortable to you. It has also been noted that Elvis himself never called it the “Jungle Room” but rather referred to it as the den and it was obviously the place he felt comfortable and relaxed. 

Walnut Column Fireplace

During the 1800s, a den was traditionally a male retreat, where the men of the household withdrew after dinner with their guests for brandy and cigars, while the women held court in the parlor. Over the years, the den evolved into a place where everyone in the family could relax. It differs again from the family room, which is typically larger in size than a den. Some real estate experts have noted that the den seems to be gradually disappearing from floor plans of the contemporary home, in preference to the home office. But for many people, the den is the perfect place to unwind, read a book or watch a favorite TV program. Often, it is reserved just for adults; a much-needed kid-free zone separate (in mood anyway) from the rest of the household. 

To create a room that is inviting, uncluttered and conducive to lounging in style, here are some things to consider:

  • De-tech the room by keeping gadgets to a minimum. If you’re going to have a television in the room, select a TV armoire or a plasma lift TV stand to hide it from view when it’s not in use.
  • Arrange furniture in conversational groupings.
  • Choose a really comfy armchair with an ottoman or a leather recliner to fill a corner of the room, preferably near an electric fireplace, if you have one.
  • Lighting should be even distributed around the room with the use of table lamps or other forms of task lighting to make the room well-lit while appearing low-key and warm.
  • Don’t forget lots of pillows. Plumping up the couch and occasional chairs with plenty of accent pillows makes seating much more comfortable. 

While some people term Elvis’ Jungle Room décor “atrocious,” he did get the color palette somewhat correct. Because it’s supposed to be a place to relax, colors should be warm. Select ones like moss greens, warm tans, wine shades, earth tones or even deeper yellows such as sunflower gold. Deeper palettes have a tendency to make the room feel more intimate. 

Wall Bookcase in Distressed Finish

Instead of an artificial waterfall built of cut fieldstone that never worked properly, for you den choose a more practical focal point. A fireplace adds warmth and ambience to a room; an open invitation to come curl up on the leather sofa. If a fireplace is not an option, consider using a barrister bookcase or library wall. Bookcases aren’t just for books; they’re an excellent way to display collectibles, trophies or family pictures. 

You don’t have to have Elvis’ taste for snake carving armrests. The way to go about decorating a den can be best described as a type of cocooning. The emphasis is on relaxation, tranquility and your favorite way to kick back and unwind.

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China Cabinet Savvy

Monday, October 26th, 2009

A few years ago, I inherited my grandmother’s china cabinet. Come to think of it, I also inherited most of the china, minus her formal dinner set (which went to my mother and is now owned by my sister).
Lifestyle California Caneel Bay Buffet and Hutch

Before you get all excited with visions of an antique cabinet or at the very least, some type of collectible, the china cabinet that once belonged to my grandmother is actually neither. Frustrated that she had nowhere to store her china in the cupboards of her small apartment kitchen, she coaxed one of my uncles to drive her to a furniture store and bought the most economical china cabinet she could find. 

Stanley Furniture Beau Nouveau Walnut Wilshire China Cabinet

I highly suspect that it’s made of particleboard or at best, MDF, but I don’t care. I wouldn’t part with it if you paid me a million dollars – literally. It possesses a simple, transitional style and includes a built-in buffet, glass doors on top and wood doors on the bottom. While the top half of the china cabinet could be called contemporary, the bottom half (and this is where the transitional part comes in) of the cabinet has doors comprised of raised squares with ornate, antiqued pewter door pulls. It doesn’t have any extra features like interior lighting or a mirrored back. Friends that know of my passion for furniture have often wondered why I haven’t upgraded. But there’s something about this piece of furniture I just like (no logical reason necessary). 

Standard Urban Oasis China Base and Top

It is deceptively roomy, as I recently found out after my mother’s own 10-place setting dinnerware was shipped to me. For two days after receiving the shipment, every flat surface in my apartment was covered with dinner plates, breakfast plates, salad plates, soup bowls, tea cups…well you get the idea…waiting to be washed and placed inside the cabinet. I already had my own smaller sized “company” dinner set and the china pieces that had been my grandmother’s stored in the china cabinet. These had been removed in preparation of the new arrivals.

I really did not think that everything would fit. Behind the glass doors are three shelves, none of them adjustable. The top two shelves, however, have plate grooves. When trying to make my mother’s dinner set fit into the available storage area, the plate grooves were a life-saver, perfect for displaying the several condiment dishes and cake and sandwich servers that were a part of the dinner set. The bottom cabinet only had one half-width upper shelf, but a roomy interior. Once I had grouped all of the different sized plates together, I piled them into the bottom section of the china cabinet. I looked in despair at the narrow shelf and almost wrote it off as useless until it occurred to me to store the soup bowls and salad plates on it. The top of the china cabinet was reserved for the cups, saucers, tea pot and the small serving dishes. Much to my surprise (and relief) I also managed to include the china cabinet’s original contents. 

Somerton Brazilia Coastal China Display Cabinet in Dark Brown

I don’t let my china cabinet just sit idle. While I’m not in the habit of changing the décor to match the seasons, I do like to use it to help me celebrate the holidays. Currently the cabinet with the glass doors is displaying all of my chinaware that has fall colors, especially orange. One of my small crystal vases holds some twigs with drying fall leaves in fading reds and golds. In time for Thanksgiving, I’ll decorate the top of it with a display of gourds and small pumpkins. At Christmas, I rearrange the top shelves to showcase my Christmas cups and saucers, mugs and plates. I also make sure that the top of the china cabinet is decorated with pine boughs, which lends my dining room the scent of a forest freshly dusted with a sprinkling of snow.

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Must have Fireplace Accessories for the Perfect Date

Friday, October 9th, 2009

There’s no denying it, a wood-burning fireplace is an object of envy in any home. Step into a living room or family room that has a fireplace and you instantly feel welcomed and comfortable.

Rejuvenate an old fireplace with a lovely new insert.Stepping into a bedroom that has a fireplace is the ultimate romantic or luxurious experience. A wood-burning fireplace is also a great secondary heat source. Well-chosen fireplace accessories not only help you to maintain it and keep it safe, they can add a sophisticated, decorative touch to the room.
 
Since I love fireplaces but live in an apartment, my idea of a perfect date would be with someone who had a fireplace he would be willing to share. What better backdrop could you possibly have for dinner and a movie without leaving the comfort of home? A leather sofa with lots of accent pillows and plenty of room for two, strategically placed near the fire would provide the ideal spot for curling up and gazing into the flames. Slow jazz on the stereo, anything by Pat Metheny (no words, just pure jazz guitar). 

I couldn’t have a perfect date without wine. Sipping red wine in a wine glass large enough to capture the light from the fire is a great way to start a cozy conversation and to discover interesting details about the other person that I didn’t know before. Candles are a must; a subtle way of echoing the flames of the fire throughout the room and making the most of the romantic mood. 

I enjoy cooking, but making a meal together is an ideal way to find out what he likes and doesn’t like. It also gives me a chance to see just how handy he is in the kitchen. It doesn’t have to be a five-star recipe: even those of us who are more take-out than cook-in have a favorite pasta dish that we’ve mastered for when we have friends or guests over for dinner.

If the dining room didn’t have a view of the fireplace, I’d persuade my date to take our glasses of wine back into the living room by the fire. I would transform the coffee table into a romantic place to dine by placing oversized glass candlesticks (again, they would “throw” light around the room) in the middle of the table along with matching dinnerware and a basket of warm dinner rolls. 

Once dinner’s done, it’s back to snuggling on the couch with the rest of the wine. Pat Metheny has now been officially replaced by a “chick” flick. (Cars and buildings being blown up on the TV screen tend to interrupt the feeling of romance!) After the movie, it’s settling down on the hearth rug as close to him and the fire as possible. 

There no doubt that a wood burning fireplace is the focal point of my ideal date. How do you imagine your perfect date? Write me if you’d like to share your design ideas that make a room romance-friendly.

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Family Room Furniture

Sunday, August 2nd, 2009

Family Room Furniture

A family room is a place of comfort – from the oversized couches and armchairs, to the giant big screen TV. However, comfortable doesn’t have to mean dowdy. You can find great family room furniture on the market that are stylish, yet sensible. Take a look at the following furniture examples that’ll suit your family room:

Family Room Furniture: Sofas

When looking for that perfect sofa to relax on in your family room, keep one thing in mind – safety first. There are some sofa models that may have hard plastic arms or accents, as well as sharp corner, which may mean trouble if your child is playing on the couch and bumps into it. Rounded, plush sofas are your best bet.

Comfortable SofaThe soft, suede Klaussner Furniture Auburn Comfortable Sofa has a relaxed contemporary vibe – perfect for the family room. Also, its dark brown tobacco finish will hide stains easier than a lighter-coloured sofa.

Pillow Top SofaWant the ultimate in comfort? The microfiber-upholstered Coaster Hayden Pillow Top Sofa has a padded pillow top that you can sink into. Don’t fret over the light sand shade – microfiber is simple to clean up with a damp rag.

Leather Reclining SofaHave a sofa and recliner in one with the Tandem Carolina Leather Reclining Sofa. With dozens of leather finishes to choose from, you’ll find a shade that matches your living room perfectly.

Family Room Furniture: Armchairs

Basically, follow the same rules as you would for your sofa – curved and soft armchairs will fit your family room and be safe for your kids at the same time. 

Leather ChairYou’ll experience the smooth feeling of real leather with the Stylus Easton Leather Chair In Sensation Grizzly. Its unique curved arms offer visual interest and comfort at the same time.

Swivel Glider ChairCozy up in the Klaussner Furniture Swivel Glider Chair. Its swivelling feature allows you to rotate while seated, to either face family members or even the television. Choose between nine upholstery finishes for a customized look.

Rolled ArmchairThe oversized arms featured in the Kathy Ireland Home by Omnia Furniture Leather Scottsdale Leather Club Rolled ArmChair are rounded and comfy, as opposed to sharp lines that may be harmful for your children. The coloured piping adds visual interest, and you can choose your own leather shade for the chair, as well as the finish of the feet.

Family Room Furniture: Ottomans
Put your feet up on a comfy ottoman while stretching out in front of the TV. They double as a coffee table and a footrest, so they’ll make a great place to rest snacks (or your feet) during family time.

Round OttomanThe subtle NW Enterprises Classic Round Ottoman is fully padded and upholstered for your comfort needs. Its round shape has no corners, which is kid-friendly.

Black Leather OttomanAgain, notice the rounded edges of the Wholesale Interiors Baxton Studio Black Leather Ottoman with Tapered Base – if your child bumps into it, no harm done! It’s also visually stunning in shiny black leather.

OttomanIdeal for a sectional sofa, the Stratford Mainstream Ottoman fits nicely in the corner of a sectional. Its unique two-toned colour combination helps it stand out in your family room as a focal point.

Family Room Furniture: TV Stands

No matter what kind of style you’re into, there’s a TV stand that will fit your family room. Of course, the safer the better – although that all-glass TV stands may look stunning, is it practical enough for the family room?

Plasma TV StandA really practical option for the family room is a corner TV stand, like the Home Styles Furniture Bedford Black Wood Corner Plasma TV Stand. It takes up unused corner space, and eliminates the chances of your kids running into the side of it.

Glass TV StandThe sleek and modern BDI Cielo LCD/Plasma Glass Television Stand in Espresso Finish actually has unique curved edges that promote kid safety – plus it looks stunning at the same time!

Plasma Television StandFor a traditional, yet contemporary look, the American Drew Bob Mackie Signature Fully Assembled Plasma Television Stand straddles the line between old and new. If you’re a fan of antiques, but also enjoy a modern shape, this TV stand will work for you! It will instantly offer style to your family room with its unique veneer detailing and gold metal hardware.

Family Room Furniture: Media Storage

You’re going to need a place to store all those DVDs, so look for a good-quality media storage unit. Don’t opt for anything too bulky and heavy – it’ll be difficult to move around, and possibly stick out like a sore thumb.

Cheap Media StorageThis is your family room, so feel free to have fun in it! The Southern Enterprises Phone Booth Media Storage Cabinet is in the shape of a British telephone booth, and fits your different types of media right inside its door. Storage cabinets with doors are ideal if you want to avoid your little ones getting into your storage.

DVD Storage CabinetIf your child wants to grab a movie for themselves, the Spartak CD DVD Media Storage Cabinet With Drawers will work for them at their height! Place CDs in the drawers and DVDs in the cabinets for proper organization.

Media Storage TowerIf you’ve been wanting media storage that rests against the wall, try the DVD/CD Media Storage Wall Unit in Sky Alder Finish with Matte Black Accents. It’s simple, but stylish, and definitely the right price if you’re on a budget!

Now all you have to do is kick back with a movie in your new family room furniture!

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Big & Tall Oversized Recliner

Monday, June 29th, 2009

Recliners for the Big and Tall Buying Guide

I have great feedback on the small blog post I put together for buying recliners for big and tall people so I thought I would expand on the subject.  It’s great being big, tall or burly; the cupboards in your home will never drive you crazy; you can wrestle off jar lids without help; and no one will run you off the sidewalk. But it can have its downside, especially when shopping for furniture where everything, from bedroom sets to living room furnishings, is geared toward average or standard size.

Nothing says “kick back” like a new recliner, but if you’re big or tall or both, you might have trouble finding one that’s the ideal fit. Don’t despair! There really are recliners out there that are made just for you.

Keep in Mind

When choosing the perfect recliner, make sure that when sitting upright, your lower spine is fully supported by the backrest and that it cradles your shoulders and neck. If you do find a recliner that you just must have, but it isn’t an ideal fit, you can select one with a matching ottoman or an adjustable, built-in footrest. This will take the pressure off the backs of your legs, one of the first places to experience discomfort when not sitting properly.

Check the product information provided by the manufacturer or distributor for weight capacity to ensure the comfort level and longevity of your new recliner. While wide-body recliners are designed specifically for the big and tall, the weight capacity for individual models and brands varies from recliner to recliner.

Make room. A recliner typically needs to be at least six inches away from the wall to fully recline. Even zero clearance recliners need a bit a space to maneuver.

Ensure that any mechanisms and levers are easy to operate and to reach. If you have to twist or lean it will cancel out the relaxing benefits of your recliner.

Oversized recliners are good value for the money. Many manufacturers offer recliners for the big and tall that are comparable to standard sized recliners, but are constructed with heavy duty materials, extra-strength fabrics and reinforced frames and seams.

Perspective and Scale

It’s nothing new: manufacturers have been designing and producing chairs and recliners for big people for several decades now. They have just been harder to find. Whereas in past years, marketing strategies have been low-key and aimed at specialty markets, today, the recliner landscape has changed dramatically.

Directly attributed to the growing trend of America’s expanding waistlines, recliner and other types of furniture manufacturers are responding to customer demand by updating marketing strategies and making more comfortable chairs and recliners intended for bigger sized people.

Recliners for big people typically have the following characteristics:

  • Seat cushion dimensions are at least four inches wider, from the standard 16” to 20”
  • Scale of the chair is generally bigger, including a wider back and a deeper seating area
  • Legs and bases are designed to provide additional support
  • Seat cushions and seat backs are plusher
  • Frame is reinforced
  • Industry and voluntary manufacturer standard weight capacities (the amount of weight a piece of furniture is designed to support) have been increased

Types of Recliners

A recliner is essentially an armchair with some extra bells and whistles designed with your comfort in mind. Typical features of a wide body recliner include a more spacious seating area, plushier padding, an ergonomic back and a footrest, either built-in or ottoman style.

With the stress that our bodies face during a typical day, a recliner built with ergonomics in mind offers the best support and can actually contribute to improving an individual’s overall sense of health and well-being.

Oversized Chaise ReclinerFor people with joint, sore muscle or mobility issues, the Catnapper Invincible Power Lift Full Lay-Out Oversized Chaise Recliner does much of the work of standing for you. A power lift recliner raises the seating area to a semi-standing position, making exiting the chair so much easier.

Wide Recliner ChairA glider recliner reclines, glides back and forth and rocks in a closed position. Like the Catnapper Goliath Oversized Swivel Glider Chaise Recliner, many manufacturers offer glider recliners with additional or optional features like 360-degree swivel, multiple recline positions or a built-in ergonomic headrest. A glider recliner is a really comfy trade-in for a regular armchair.

High Leg Push Back ReclinerPush back recliners allow you to tilt the recliner back by pushing on the chair’s backrest without levers or other kinds of mechanisms.

A push back recliner in disguise, the Distinction Leather Waldon Leather High Leg Recliner has the appearance of a traditional style armchair. Since they typically don’t have as much “hardware” associated with other types of recliners, they are easier to move from place to place. When decorating smaller sized rooms, a push back recliner is the ideal space saving solution.

Big ReclinerThere’s more to oversized rocker recliners than meets the eye.

Sure, they rock and recline, but they can also have other features such as pillow-top arms and an ergonomically styled backrest and headrest for added comfort. The Catnapper Score Leather Oversized Rocker Recliner will transform a corner of your den or living room into the perfect oasis to relax.

Fixed Back ReclinerSwivel recliners allow for freedom of movement without you have to shift the entire chair.

Would you like to change your point of view without getting up from your chair? Then the Franklin Fixed Back Manhattan Recliner Leather Chair would provide the best solution for you.

Recline in Comfort

Push Back ReclinerLeather recliners are fashionable and comfortable. Select one like the Tandem Vincenzo Leather Chair with high quality leather, for ultimate support and durability.

A leather recliner makes a distinctive fashion statement and reflects your confident sense of style. Leather recliners are the ultimate in luxurious relaxation, the perfect antidote to a stressful, busy day.

You really enjoy the look of leather, but when thinking about buying a recliner for your family room, you wonder what the kids and pets will do to your lovely new leather recliner. But with a quality fabric recliner, you won’t have to compromise on comfort, good looks or style. Fabric recliners are available in all the usual suspects: glider recliners, rocker recliners, recliners with power lift, push recliners and swivel recliners.

Home Theater ReclinerWatch a lot of movies?

Get really comfortable in home theater recliner like the Berkline 45090 Series Straight 4 Seat Home Theater Seating Recliner set. In addition to being an ideal way to sit back, theater recliners have special features designed to enhance your viewing pleasure. They typically include cup holders and hidden storage.

Big Oversized ReclinerSome manufacturers offer the different types of recliners for the big and tall in “chaise” style.

A chaise style recliner such as the Catnapper Teddy Bear Oversized Chaise Swivel Glider Recliner provides full body support from head to toe when the chair is fully reclined.

Don’t have much room to work with and definitely couldn’t fit both a sofa and a recliner in one room?

A reclining sofa or loveseat is the ideal solution, combining the advantages of both into one functional piece of furniture. A reclining sofa will give you the best of both worlds, since it is a sofa with reclining capabilities. If you are decorating a smaller-sized space, a fabric reclining loveseat fills the same function as a reclining sofa, without taking up as much space.

But be warned! Be prepared to share. If an oversized leather or fabric recliner offers you the ultimate in comfort and relaxation, it’s going to be appealing to any member of your family (including the family pet).

Nicolette Interior Design Diva

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Futon – Sofabed Buying Guide

Sunday, June 21st, 2009

Futon – Sofa Bed – Convertible Sofa – Daybed Furniture Design Buying Guide

Convertible Beds – A Guide

Thankfully, convertible sofabeds have gotten a lot comfier and stylish over the years. And of course, they’re convenient for extra sleeping space whenever visitors stay over – no need for a guest room!

But now that there are so many choices available, it can be a challenge to pick one out, or even decide what kind you would like. That’s why I have created a step-by-step guide to help you understand the different types of convertible beds – sofabeds – sleeper sofas -daybeds out there. Just look through the different varieties of beds, follow the steps, and you’ll be on your way to selecting a convertible bed that’s right for your home. If you need some help with yor decision just ask!

Convertible Sofas


These sofas have reclining backpieces that allow them to fully flatten out into a bed.

1. Choose your folding method

Black Convertible SofaClick-clack (or “klick-klack”): a European method of clicking the back of the sofa backwards to create a bed. LifeStyle Solutions Aruba Casual Convertible Upholstered Sofa in Black

Black Leather Convertible SofaSplit-back: the bed is divided into at least three different sections allowing different folding styles (from a seat, to a lounger, to a bed, etc). Lifestyle Solutions Casual Convertibles New Jersey Convertible Sofa in Black Leather

Modern Convertible SofaExtending arms: allows the arms to fold upwards or downwards. Lifestyle Solutions Serta Dream Convertible Nadine Sofa

2. Choose your design style

Brown Convertible SofaModern: minimal and organized, this style focuses on bold colours and straight lines in its design. It is an advanced and artistic style. Lifestyle Solutions Casual Convertibles Orlando Convertible Sofa

Contemporary: Few adornments and geometric shapes compliment the contemporary interior style. The look is sleek and up-to-date, with lots of different colours and textures to choose from. Lifestyle Solutions Serta Dream Convertible Hailey Sofa

Click Clack Convertible SofaCasual or Country: The casual style is for homes with a comfy, laid-back vibe. Soft details and simple décor top off a room with casual design. Lifestyle Solutions Casual Convertibles Van Ness

3. Choose your convertible sofa material

Leather Sofa BedLeather Convertible Sofabed: Heavy-duty, visually appealing, and simple to clean: that’s leather in a nutshell. It also wears better with age, making it an ideal selection for sofas. Leather is also available in a wide spectrum of colours, and there is the option of faux-leather and pleather materials that are inexpensive versions of real leather. Coaster Furniture Jetson Convertible Sleeper Sofa Bed

Microfiber Sofa BedMicrofiber Convertible Sofas: A few benefits of microfiber include its resistance to fur and dust, its soft texture, and low maintenance upkeep. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth soaked in water and detergent to keep it sanitary. Plus, it’s inexpensive, but not low on quality. Global Furniture USA Sofa Bed in Burgundy Microfiber

Suede Convertible Sofa BedSuede: Soft to the touch, simple to clean, and luxurious-looking, suede is an attractive material for your convertible sofa. Suede is resistant to stains because they can easily be wiped off its surface. LifeStyle Solutions Valencia Convertible Sofa

Futons

A futon is a mattress pad constructed of tufted cotton that can be placed on the floor or on a frame.

1. Choose your Futon frame

Bi-fold or Tri-fold: a bi-fold frame has the ability to fold once along its length. This is the standard type of futon frame that normally comes without a mattress, so you will have to find a bi-fold mattress separately. A tri-fold frame can fold at least three times, giving it more seating/sleeping possibilities. Tri-folds usually have a mattress included with their frame.

Full Futon FrameElite Products Hermosa Full Metal/Wood Futon Frame in Espresso Finish,

Futon Frame and MattressElite Products – Mali Metal Futon Frame and Mattress Set in Aubergine-Caper

Wooden/Metal frame: wood is generally a more pricey and heavy futon frame. It would work well in a living room or an office, since it wouldn’t be moved around often. The most popular choice with futon frames is metal because it is relatively inexpensive, light, and is the most available.

Metal Full Futon FrameElite Products Santa Barbara Full Walnut Futon Frame, Elite Products Evolution Full Metal Futon Frame

Futon ChairFuton Chair: Chair futon frames are a great idea for space-saving. They easily convert from an armchair to a twin futon sleeper. If you’re not sure you want to buy a full sofa just to get sleeping space, the futon chair is ideal for that. There are just as many styles and mattresses out there for futon chairs, as well as futons. Figure out whether you want a bi-fold futon chair that unfolds outwards, or a tri-fold that adjusts backwards and forwards. Elite Products Bridgeport Junior Twin Walnut Futon Chair

Folding methods: there are different options when it comes to folding your futon into a bed. A kicker is a small bit of wood or plastic between the seat rack that locks the futon in place once you’ve moved it to your preferred angle.

Click-clack options aren’t just for convertible sofas; futons use them too. Just click the backpiece of the futon backwards to a sleeping position. There is also the sliding pivot point that allows the futon to slide into place coming forward, so you don’t have to move the futon away from the wall.

2. Choose your Futon Mattress

Full Futon Mattress100% Cotton: Since it is the most traditional type of mattress, it hasn’t been updated with any sort of blend. It’s an ideal choice for a floor mattress because if put in a frame, it may eventually sag with the constant folding. Look for a mattress padded with extra cotton on top for maximum strength. Elite Futon Mattress

Futon Double Foam MattressCotton/foam blend: Lighter and more rigid than full cotton, this blend is the most popular choice for its comfortable foam center that relieves pressure once you come in contact with it. Plus, it doesn’t get shapeless with folding because of its excellent flexibility.  Gold Bond Cotton with Double Foam Core Mattress

Simmons Futon MattressCotton/polyester blend: This is the lightest of the mattress types, so it’s great for taking out of storage and placing on the floor or a frame. Choose your firmness by checking the amount of polyester in the blend – the more there is, the firmer the mattress will be. Polyester is also a hypo-allergenic material. Simmons Futons by Big Tree Comfort Sleep Full Size Futon Mattress

Simmons Spring Futon MattressInnerspring: They are the heaviest of mattresses, because of its coils that make the mattress extra thick. However, they are the most bed-like, and they do well on the floor or on a frame. Be willing to pay a little more for the innerspring than the other types of mattresses. Simmons Futons by Big Tree Deluxe Spring Full Size Futon Mattress

3. Choose your Futon Cover

Blue Futon CoverCotton Fabric Futon Cover: generally machine washable and durable, cotton futon covers are also reasonably priced. Be sure to have more than one futon cover on hand in case one is accidentally damaged. Elite Products Solid Poly Cotton in Blue Futon Cover

Leather Futon CoverLeather Futon Cover: you’ll have to spend more, but a leather futon cover lasts extremely long. The natural cracks in leather are naturally occurring from the animal skin, so if your leather looks scratched, it isn’t – it’s only the skin pattern. Elite Rust Luxe Leather Futon Cover

Suede Futon CoverSuede: choose a suede cover for the ultimate in softness and comfort. It is also easy to clean; a spill can easily be wiped off. Sis Covers Premium Suede Midori Futon Cover

Sleeper Sofas

The sleeper sofa is a couch with a pull out spring-mounted bed that is hidden underneath the sofa pads.

1. Choose your size

Ottoman Sleeper Sofa BedOttoman (21 x 28 inches mattress, 21 x 28 seat): ottomans with pull-out beds are a convenient choice for homes with minimal space, and they make a great accent piece when closed. Coaster Furniture Skyler Twin Sleeper Ottoman

Leather Twin Sofa BedTwin Sofa Bed (39 x 75 inches mattress, 28 x 54 seat): also a great space saver, a twin pull-out that doubles as a chair gives you an extra sitting and sleeping area. LaCrosse Benson Leather Twin Sleeper

Double Sofa BedFull or Double Sleeper Sofa (54 x 75 inches mattress, 54 x 54 seat): around the size of a loveseat, a full or double sofa bed can snugly fit two people or have enough space for a solo sleeper to stretch out. Van Gogh Full Sofa Bed

Queen Sleeper SofaQueen Sofa Bed (60 x 80 inches mattress, 54 x 60 seat): for those with space to spare! Two people can rest comfortably in a queen sofa bed, and as a couch, it would be a great addition to the living room or basement den. Klaussner Furniture Biltmore Dreamquest Queen Sleeper

2. Choose your style

3 Seat Sleeper SofaTraditional: traditional style is normally carried out with wooden, dark stained, old-world pieces that are classically detailed. The details are mixed with straight and curved lines. Kathy Ireland Home by Omnia Leather Laredo 3 Seat Sleeper Sofa

SofabedRustic: another style that includes wood in its design is the rustic look. Wood is normally left unfinished, and this interior design has an outdoorsy, natural feel. Van Gogh Designs Tiffany Sofabed

Convertible SofaContemporary: for a current, swift, relaxed look. Lifestyle Solutions Casual Convertibles Roxbury Convertible Sofa in Beach

Queen Leather Sofa BedModern: suitable for a room with a straight-lined, clean, functional look. Simmons Upholstery Paris Leather Queen Sleeper Sofa in Taupe 

3. Choose your material

Leather SofabedLeather Sofa Bed: a long lasting, expensive-looking, luxurious sofa bed material is definitely found in leather. It’s a great material if you have kids, since it repels liquids and other stains easily. Distinction Leather Manhattan Leather Sleeper Sofa (multiple finishes)

Sectional Sleeper SofaMicrofiber Sleeper Sofa: microfiber is generally an economical choice, for its price and its resilience. Plus it is simple to clean up. Global Furniture Sectional Sleeper Sofa in Beige and Brown Microfiber

Serta SofabedFabric Sofa Bed: while being durable and soft, fabric is also the cheapest option for a sofa bed material. Lifestyle Solutions Serta Dream Convertible Nita Sofa

Daybeds

Daybeds are basically twin beds turned sideways, with a foot, backpiece, and head that make it a couch by day and a bed by night.

1. Choose your Daybed frame

Wood DaybedWood Daybed: if you’re looking for the warming, friendly appearance of wood, choose a wooden daybed frame. They offer a decorative charm to any living space. Fashion Bed Group Fraser Wood Daybed with Link Spring

Wrought Iron DaybedMetal Daybed: depending on what your style is, you can find a metal daybed frame that has an industrial feel or an antique, wrought iron look. Hillsdale Bonaire Daybed with Suspension Deck

Trundle DaybedDaybed with Trundle: a trundle is an extra twin bed that can be pulled out of a drawer underneath the daybed frame. Two beds in one! Young American Daybed With Trundle

2. Choose your Daybed Mattress

12 Inch MattressMemory foam: these mattresses are made with several layers of high-density foam for maximum comfort. The open cells in the form allow air to pass through it with body contact, and re-shape to adjust to the specific body type. It is naturally anti-microbial and hyper-allergenic. Gold Bond 12 inch Visco Touch Mattress

8 Inch MattressInnerspring: the standard mattress choice, mainly for beds. If you’re looking for a daybed that is most like your current bed, opt for an innerspring mattress. Its coils minimize noise and motion, resting in their own fabric compartment. Gold Bond – 8 inch Comfort Coil Mattress

3. Choose your Daybed Bedding style

Daybed Bedding SetCountry: floral and plaid designs are elements of the country style. The theme is tranquility and texture. Southern Textiles Jolie 4-Piece Black Daybed Bedding Set

Retro Bedding SetRetro: think back to the sixties for fun designs, like circles, but keep them contemporary by using a soft colour palette. Southern Textiles Halo 4-Piece Daybed Bedding Set

Animal Print Bedding SetWorld: using patterns from different parts of the globe, like exotic animal skin, gives a room a flavourful, rich vibe. Southern Textiles Jaguar Onyx 4-Piece Daybed Bedding Set

A few final tips to remember when choosing a new convertible bed:

This is an investment piece that you’ll most likely have for a long time, just like a regular sofa – so don’t give up quality for a low price.

Accessorize! A new sofa bed gives you the chance to express your designing personality. Add great bedding and lots of fun, decorative pillows.

Be careful with mattresses that are lined with foam – they’re flammable. Keep them away from your fireplace.

Make sure your sofa bed comes with a warranty and you understand what it covers and what it doesn’t.

Trust your instincts – if you don’t really love it, don’t consider it!

For more options, be sure to check out:

Sofa Bed

Convertible Sofa

Daybeds

Futon

Sleeper Sofa

Nicolette Interior Design Diva

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Bedroom Design Ideas on a Budget

Monday, May 18th, 2009

Bedroom Furnitue & Design Ideas

Budget Bedroom Design Ideas

In every home the bedroom should be a tranquil design haven. The image of fluffy pillows, fresh cotton sheets and vast airy space springs to mind. In all reality, the bedroom ends up being the most ignored room in the house when it comes to interior decorating. Designing a bedroom can be expensive but with these budget design ideas your bedroom can be a designer tranquil dream!

But when you finally get round to doing something about it, you may realise you haven’t much money to spend on the renovation. Fortunately, there are some helpful tips to affordable bedroom design that will transform your sleeping space into that little sanctuary you always wanted.dark chocolate nightstand

Start off by rearranging the furniture. Sometimes just ‘’refreshing’’ the space makes a dramatic difference. If you find a lot of clutter has accumulated over the years, invest in some storage containers to slide under the bed. Nightstands can also be used in this way, such as the South Shore Back Bay Nightstand in Dark Chocolate. The more space you can make available, the more relaxing your bedroom will feel.

Painting your room a colour that you love is a quick, inexpensive method. Light colours inspire a serene atmosphere, whereas darker hues set a more intimate mood. Try and avoid vibrate shades, as they stimulate your mind and make it difficult to get that much needed shut-eye!

Perhaps select a theme to base your decorating around. If you want to transform your boudoir into a Moroccan suite, opt for terracotta and sand coloured paints, cushions, as well as a stripy rug. Cushions are inexpensive and can fit into any theme. Layers of pillows create a homely appearance, whereas a selection of big floor pillows encourage a ‘’kick back and relax’’ feel. For a more romantic atmosphere, use soft colours, luxurious fabrics and invest in some scented candles. These are affordable bedroom designs that can express your personality.

four post metal and wood bedBut the most important design feature is the bed. It has to be the perfect size for two reasons. If too large, your bedroom will appear smaller than it actually is. If the bed is not big enough, you have some uncomfortable nights ahead of you! The Hillsdale Madison Metal and Four Post Wood Bed is available in twin, full, queen and king sizes. So whatever your budget or bedroom size, you have an option. The design of the bed can also be incorporated into a traditional themeThick Firm Memory Foam Mattressd room as well as a modern one.

Even if you tighten the purse strings on the bed, invest in a decent mattress. The 11 inch thick firm memory foam mattress by Memory Mattress is a good example. It is important to seek comfort in this area, as the majority of people spend approximately 50 hours a week sleeping.

Dark Chocolate Headboard in Queen, Full, Twin and King Very AffordableIf you already have a comfortable bed and just need a focal point to liven up the room, perhaps introduce a bold headboard. Take the South Shore Furniture Back Bay Dark Chocolate Headboard. It can be purchased separately, and is an affordable way to give an old bed a new lease of life.

For an even more economical technique, contemplate new sheets! A new duvet cover can offer a transformation when it comes to a fresh colour scheme or the overall look.

Bedroom design does not have to cost a fortune. Focus on creating a tranquil space for all stress and worries to disappear. Including storage, soft cushions or even a new bed can make all the difference. Affordable does not have to mean limited. The possibilities for your bedroom design are endless, even on a budget.

I would love to see what you come up with! Need help post a picture or questions lets see what we can come up with for your budget bedroom design! Nicolette Interior Design Diva

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Family Room Design Ideas for Busy Moms

Sunday, May 10th, 2009

Family Room Design TipsFAMILY ROOM DESIGN TIPS (tribute to Mothers day)

My family room is in shambles so I came up some new design ideas.  I am a busy mom with two active kids.  They need a family room to run around and play, but at the end of the day I want to come home to a calm space.black storage coffee table

I am sure there are lots of moms out there like me who would love a new family room design.  We feel torn between our kid’s needs and our own.  Well, if you’re anything like me, I have a few basic tips to share with you.  I found a way to design a family room on a budget that meets my kid’s needs and my own.

Now that I’ve done it, I wish I had done it a long time ago.  The old family room design was veiled in toy dolls and cars.  Who wants to come home to that little disaster?  I found a fantastic dark coffee table with drawers, which is large enough to hold big stuffed animals and toys.

American Drew Entertainment Center SetThe kids got a place for their stuff that they could easily reach and I got a new wall unit to store all my books, magazines and entertainment unit.  The wall unit takes up one entire wall, but it was important to get a piece that would be large enough to accommodate a growing family.

Contemporary Black Leather Sofa

I could’ve slip-covered the old couch, but I’ve moved it to the basement.   Instead, I opted for a new sleek, black leather contemporary couch we could all enjoy on movie night.  Plus, it can easily be wiped clean of little sticky hand prints that are bound to turn up, and which mom wouldn’t love that in a new family room design?  I didn’t want any knickknacks or artwork to keep a clean,

streamlined family room design.  My budget adored it and I am sure yours will too with this family room design approach.

The key ingredient in making this family room design a success was making sure everyone had a place to put their stuff.  Now the kids can play, make a mess and also pack it away while their mom can look forward to coming home to a little tranquility.

Interior Designer Mom Alexandra B.

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