Romantic Bedroom February 21, 2011
Posted by creatingyourspace in : Design and Decorating , add a comment
This bedroom has a romantic flavor to it – a feeling that it’s part of another age and another part of the world. What can you learn from this room to help make your bedroom more romantic and exotic?
Some architectural basics provide a good start. The flooring here is a rustic terra cotta-colored tile. This sets the stage for a space that fits as well in other countries as in the U.S. Stone floors provide a similar ambience. Strategically-placed area rugs will bring warmth to the space as well as to your feet. This room has a simple rug next to the bed, but a larger rug under the bed at an angle that reflects the fireplace would also work well.
The next architectural decision comes from the rough plastered back wall. If you would rather not commit to this permanently, consider an attractive faux paint option to add personality. If you decide to tackle this yourself practice first on poster board until you have the look you want.
The four-poster bed is unusual and looks hand crafted. While you may not be able to find a piece like this, check thrift stores for a four-poster with some carving. A light cream paint with a glaze over the top to emphasize the character of the bed will achieve a similar effect.
The final touch comes from the embroidered linens on the bed. Once again thrift stores and even garage sales can produce an amazing selection of options. You may want to watch for estate sales in the older neighborhoods in your hometown. Many people no longer value these handmade heirlooms. If you would prefer new pieces, consider a light tea dye to help your bed linens look aged and valued.
You can add flowers, ribbons and art to take the room in a direction that works for you. This room is warm and individual, and with just a little effort you can do the same in your bedroom.
How To Remove Chocolate From Carpet February 17, 2011
Posted by creatingyourspace in : Care and Maintenance, Carpet , 1 comment so far
We hope you enjoyed your Valentine’s Day this year! We thought we’d share a few tips on how to get chocolate out of carpet, just in case you or your sweetheart dropped some. We hope you find this helpful!
Solvent – A non-flammable spot removal solution, or dry cleaning type solvent, is preferred. Exercise caution when using a solvent. Never pour it directly onto the carpet or allow it to reach the backing, because it can damage the latex that holds the primary and secondary backings together. Acceptable solvents include Carbona®, Energine®, K2R®, Goof-Off®, etc.
Detergent Solution – Mix one fourth (1/4) teaspoon of a liquid dishwashing detergent per one (1) cup of lukewarm water. NEVER USE A STRONGER CONCENTRATION! Thorough rinsing is necessary to remove detergent residues that may cause rapid soiling. It may be necessary to rinse with warm water several times to completely remove residues. (See Residue Precautions.) Care should be used in selecting a detergent. Never use a laundry detergent of any type, because laundry detergents may contain optical brighteners (fluorescent dyes) that dye the fiber. Do not select an automatic dishwashing detergent because many contain bleaching agents that destroy dyes and some fibers.
Vinegar Solution – Mix one (1) cup of white vinegar per two (2) cups of water. White vinegar is a 5% acetic acid solution. It is used most often to lower the alkalinity caused by detergent solutions or alkaline spills.
Warm Water – Lukewarm tap water should be used in most cases to rinse the cleaning solutions from the fiber. Failure to completely rinse the solutions from the fiber may cause accelerated soiling.
Ammonia Solution – Mix one (1) tablespoon of household ammonia per cup of water. Please note: Be aware that ammonia, if used improperly, can cause a color change. Be sure to test a hidden area.
Call a Professional – Professional cleaners have the ability and the equipment to use more aggressive cleaning solutions to remove stubborn spills. Always consider consulting a professional cleaner regarding any spot removal question. Carpet & Rug Institute – 1-800-882-8846
Tile: Not Just for Floors Anymore February 11, 2011
Posted by creatingyourspace in : Design Perspectives, Tile , add a comment
Picture this kitchen with a plain white backsplash. From standing out the room moves to bland. A striking backsplash can make a kitchen something special.
If you want to take your kitchen from functional to fashionable, a well-designed backsplash can make a difference. In a kitchen, you can’t use accessories to spark up a space because your countertops need to be free for cooking. A lively backsplash like this takes the place of accessories by adding color and interest.
Tile provides a rich variety of options in size, color and pattern. There are only four colors of two-inch glass tile in this kitchen, but the casual pattern-free approach creates an inviting contemporary mural.
Whatever your style, there are tile options to help make your kitchen special. New tile colors and patterns are released every year. How about stopping by our showroom to take a peek at what’s available, and let us help you make your kitchen an eye-catching space.
The Drama of Stone February 1, 2011
Posted by creatingyourspace in : Natural Stone, Stone , add a comment
Have you been considering a stone floor? No other flooring choice can provide the natural variation and excitement of stone. Take a look at how this floor creates an eye-catching statement despite the simple rattan chairs and white umbrellas. The floor takes control.
Every type of stone is different. Some show dramatic variety such as the choice shown here. Others have a much more consistent look from square to square. If you have a large expanse of flooring, how about taking a chance on a floor that makes a statement?
The variation on this floor ranges from almost white to a dark olive brown. This gives you the flexibility to vary your furniture from light in one area to dark in another, adding personality and variety to a large space. An earth-tone approach would work well with this floor, although it would also stand up to rich dark jewel tones and metallics.
What message do you want your home to give? Would you rather keep to the more subtle approach? Then take a look at stone options with less variation. If you’re ready for the drama of a floor like this one, talk to one of our salespeople about the choices available to add this level of design daring to your home.
