Accenting with wood

  There are so many ways you can make your space inviting .  My recommendation today is to  consider wood because it can add both warmth and architectural interest to any space.  Choose a little or a lot, there's something for every space. If you don't  like the warm tones of wood but love the grain and texture, think about white washing or gray washing it.   How about using  wood  in......<br /><br /><b>Accessories  </b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQtKqUKoAMI_EX9pIcerJGyrYPLaSLiUd9vwo8Jg9ff_pXaMSBPH-RzDu6EesYa25l6f-zwE3l7s12jcQyhpGlDhjGjgQfLEMncnUAGku8ZhuqqjiVWrlvY4KP_7ORWdbPVQT8ug508pY/s1600/103090278939858070_4Mj4u9Lx_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQtKqUKoAMI_EX9pIcerJGyrYPLaSLiUd9vwo8Jg9ff_pXaMSBPH-RzDu6EesYa25l6f-zwE3l7s12jcQyhpGlDhjGjgQfLEMncnUAGku8ZhuqqjiVWrlvY4KP_7ORWdbPVQT8ug508pY/s400/103090278939858070_4Mj4u9Lx_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://sinnenrausch.blogspot.com/">source  </a></div><br />A few twigs or pinecones as part of a table display or sliced wood attached to board or a recessed box shape can add instant interest to small areas.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf62bPo79DX0fCwGlax_zggWYVAaX5MkwErda0p8u_5uOryizv0sP9koiKTau5PCXOFtHE-4c_lqIs4IrMzt-pdwDU96iE7m6C1sgBULkBtGZEMenZG76ECKTvlef_kVu9ddgcNpz8VBQU/s1600/175921929165824896_uq1XqodM_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf62bPo79DX0fCwGlax_zggWYVAaX5MkwErda0p8u_5uOryizv0sP9koiKTau5PCXOFtHE-4c_lqIs4IrMzt-pdwDU96iE7m6C1sgBULkBtGZEMenZG76ECKTvlef_kVu9ddgcNpz8VBQU/s640/175921929165824896_uq1XqodM_b.jpg" width="403" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtCWMW-gJldZGKDdrAfIBhdkZlvG4nnR6chH-6wjbEROzT-DNs_nCF81oGemoc7ojkvGwRN_V9Tz3fRmsBJqx2Keagz_uiR3aU9m6WEYTogfrNq0pmSTVkyI-3gc46BSHJrkbJgXQgm6FC/s1600/113082640613834781_ZfZfPlCh_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://basiclabelsweden.blogspot.se/2012/11/hus.html">source </a></div>These houses cut from weathered 2 x 4 are the essence of simple, but when massed together they provide big impact  when displayed on simple white vertical  shelving  attached to white painted board.  <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJ4XN6Tgpnb7OB-6jsJolc6MFO9UtjqTvcgG_3L0HsN_laKb2TtFOzR0eCU9lt5E3sqPNaoVvXd0PVW7Z4nDYOHEOP_BM6R_8VCbj5XCa2pHweRoCV72vzDYauKn2QYpXfzK7NYCRDapU/s1600/137430226098480248_rU6L3Vbw_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJ4XN6Tgpnb7OB-6jsJolc6MFO9UtjqTvcgG_3L0HsN_laKb2TtFOzR0eCU9lt5E3sqPNaoVvXd0PVW7Z4nDYOHEOP_BM6R_8VCbj5XCa2pHweRoCV72vzDYauKn2QYpXfzK7NYCRDapU/s640/137430226098480248_rU6L3Vbw_c.jpg" width="409" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://pinkpersimmon.tumblr.com/page/61">source </a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">If you find beautiful wooden boxes like the ones above grab them.  They not only provide extra storage but they look great in any application.  You can tuck them away or use them out in the open as an end table in a living room or as a night table in a bedroom.  They are so versatile.  </div></div><br /><br /><b>Room Dividers </b><br /><br /> I am not overly fond of room dividers, but some are so well done they look like an art installation rather than a functional aspect of a home. Here are some of my favourite ones..... <br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtCWMW-gJldZGKDdrAfIBhdkZlvG4nnR6chH-6wjbEROzT-DNs_nCF81oGemoc7ojkvGwRN_V9Tz3fRmsBJqx2Keagz_uiR3aU9m6WEYTogfrNq0pmSTVkyI-3gc46BSHJrkbJgXQgm6FC/s1600/113082640613834781_ZfZfPlCh_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtCWMW-gJldZGKDdrAfIBhdkZlvG4nnR6chH-6wjbEROzT-DNs_nCF81oGemoc7ojkvGwRN_V9Tz3fRmsBJqx2Keagz_uiR3aU9m6WEYTogfrNq0pmSTVkyI-3gc46BSHJrkbJgXQgm6FC/s400/113082640613834781_ZfZfPlCh_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.contemporist.com/2012/05/21/residence-in-kifisia-by-n-koukourakis-associates/ko_210512_14/">source</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">This  divider is attached to the ceiling and floor with rods but it appears to  float.  It also allows the homeowner to place a piece of furniture in front of it.   I think I would like to see the buffet a different colour so it stands out from the wood, but there are just as many arguments for having it the same colour. </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGQoERFvygtJC4KORCTn2nw-kryvvNVu3mtcD1z1754kqPJRCCALRrlu5O5XmMkAJbmwBVbXViTEt6EbjkdXawLXdTfUPznVqRf7Hg22JPkHgmItkT8KTvIDgoW7rT1lE8i4Wpbqs_gsHl/s1600/31877109832913208_V7I4EYJy_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGQoERFvygtJC4KORCTn2nw-kryvvNVu3mtcD1z1754kqPJRCCALRrlu5O5XmMkAJbmwBVbXViTEt6EbjkdXawLXdTfUPznVqRf7Hg22JPkHgmItkT8KTvIDgoW7rT1lE8i4Wpbqs_gsHl/s640/31877109832913208_V7I4EYJy_c.jpg" width="448" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://blog.2modern.com/2012/05/schlaudhaus-interior-is-schadenfreude.html">source </a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I just love this divider because you can move around it on both sides and it is so substantial looking and works well with the flooring.   </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUzUnvJRZBc6f15-HYvlPJz-dNMZtWCyBfkCUpGv4ulTstzbxy0PIks-T7XPL4vJ-qxgs9zItPrQhHAkPLzMepPL9trObSqfOnidf7I0Rr8DrN7zlcGQl4Drk3m06ASaYx-Pv7UD8nj42/s1600/258253359852335926_jmvJh8Jb_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUzUnvJRZBc6f15-HYvlPJz-dNMZtWCyBfkCUpGv4ulTstzbxy0PIks-T7XPL4vJ-qxgs9zItPrQhHAkPLzMepPL9trObSqfOnidf7I0Rr8DrN7zlcGQl4Drk3m06ASaYx-Pv7UD8nj42/s640/258253359852335926_jmvJh8Jb_c.jpg" width="505" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUzUnvJRZBc6f15-HYvlPJz-dNMZtWCyBfkCUpGv4ulTstzbxy0PIks-T7XPL4vJ-qxgs9zItPrQhHAkPLzMepPL9trObSqfOnidf7I0Rr8DrN7zlcGQl4Drk3m06ASaYx-Pv7UD8nj42/s1600/258253359852335926_jmvJh8Jb_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://remodelista.com/posts/delson-or-sherman-architects">source</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"> This is perfect in every way, but the addition of a concrete sphere against all those horizontal and verticals is inspired.  </div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"> <b>Bathrooms  </b></div></div><br />All of these bathrooms have a mix of wood and other surfaces.  Each provides relief for the other and in this way work together to create a stronger aesthetic statement. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWapet-wS0UZMfCuAT7T4Olx2wRfU6SLBTns7TPGmtdlfx7UJMEXk2AtGNwX1yV7GXm0IoPw0nHZRkKV_S0ZwgVh_DjXp1TLV14S2OvC3MflxWSC3q33_WmH9Jlowe4wO1BJ8dDWmBdqqa/s1600/171277592048265514_9BeGCjc6_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWapet-wS0UZMfCuAT7T4Olx2wRfU6SLBTns7TPGmtdlfx7UJMEXk2AtGNwX1yV7GXm0IoPw0nHZRkKV_S0ZwgVh_DjXp1TLV14S2OvC3MflxWSC3q33_WmH9Jlowe4wO1BJ8dDWmBdqqa/s400/171277592048265514_9BeGCjc6_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.tumblr.com/blog/paintingon">source </a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"> There is just enough wood spread around this room to create a wonderful balance with the abundance of marble.  </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtCWMW-gJldZGKDdrAfIBhdkZlvG4nnR6chH-6wjbEROzT-DNs_nCF81oGemoc7ojkvGwRN_V9Tz3fRmsBJqx2Keagz_uiR3aU9m6WEYTogfrNq0pmSTVkyI-3gc46BSHJrkbJgXQgm6FC/s1600/113082640613834781_ZfZfPlCh_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> <br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXAPAHrEVswf_Ubm_nqr32jNTa8HphYmOB9rt44EIFPGcEvtljahZSq4xwm2PnvvtRY7JdOpDbdgq1-K2EE1rUN4bMQhwyhyphenhyphenXHQpveTUEqcvkOh1xAmiKhIKbFPo-xHPiaXvoCikpIvkAR/s1600/75364993733772369_xqVPL4m9_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXAPAHrEVswf_Ubm_nqr32jNTa8HphYmOB9rt44EIFPGcEvtljahZSq4xwm2PnvvtRY7JdOpDbdgq1-K2EE1rUN4bMQhwyhyphenhyphenXHQpveTUEqcvkOh1xAmiKhIKbFPo-xHPiaXvoCikpIvkAR/s640/75364993733772369_xqVPL4m9_c.jpg" width="457" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://inspirationbubble.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-04-13T19%3A51%3A00%2B01%3A00">source </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is both an accent wall and an integrated storage space. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYLYZi46clDks62tIAfEW7NTmTyQ447og1b2_0gRhyphenhyphenwXAn6h37qgmcvkcP8fokvagxRsZ5rZ5Vdo0cvZ3PNJDAIqa_1meNa0u4DDxTzjwxQirIre6lMOseCgxDXIhq4qKTdKvPGp6wq1B/s1600/79868593361201837_cGLUqU33_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYLYZi46clDks62tIAfEW7NTmTyQ447og1b2_0gRhyphenhyphenwXAn6h37qgmcvkcP8fokvagxRsZ5rZ5Vdo0cvZ3PNJDAIqa_1meNa0u4DDxTzjwxQirIre6lMOseCgxDXIhq4qKTdKvPGp6wq1B/s640/79868593361201837_cGLUqU33_b.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dwell.com/slideshows/loo-and-improved.html">source </a><br /><br />Sliding doors and drawer and open shelving.  This space has it all. <br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEquH4HwjXV6Nl2Ao-ZtCqc-ZSzBhGbvkzFa6ckDKRVsD9xGKTg73YyS_wA9VUlhhyphenhyphenF3cXMyFm5zaEmdDc44G1vyk3iqrLOdVpSM2upwnzUbsPnQ7mtT-i8q96FkGxztWaAOuV-xu9r1O1/s1600/36310340717087657_eaxa0Rpt_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEquH4HwjXV6Nl2Ao-ZtCqc-ZSzBhGbvkzFa6ckDKRVsD9xGKTg73YyS_wA9VUlhhyphenhyphenF3cXMyFm5zaEmdDc44G1vyk3iqrLOdVpSM2upwnzUbsPnQ7mtT-i8q96FkGxztWaAOuV-xu9r1O1/s640/36310340717087657_eaxa0Rpt_c.jpg" width="448" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://casatreschic.blogspot.ca/">source</a></div></div>Isn't the asymmetrical placement of this wood strip just a prefect balance for all the white and glass on the left of it?<br /><br /><b>Fireplaces </b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ix5ArdEZmfWjhdn1lqQslXclbQ-h7XtQe-qAL9xv0XsHi1mwCSjbT9xjSnMb6D8KBLxCcg68mPkrsFeRy8lNA8oRawbT8kMGqkmCoH_wFuxoSrrzdK7_ngNzgT-YNW89YoRSblKMEc9N/s1600/212654413625788108_ZF3CELtd_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ix5ArdEZmfWjhdn1lqQslXclbQ-h7XtQe-qAL9xv0XsHi1mwCSjbT9xjSnMb6D8KBLxCcg68mPkrsFeRy8lNA8oRawbT8kMGqkmCoH_wFuxoSrrzdK7_ngNzgT-YNW89YoRSblKMEc9N/s400/212654413625788108_ZF3CELtd_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.arkpad.com.br/produto/lareira-a-gas-de-filete-f9100">source </a><br /><br /> Rough hewn logs in an asymmetrical placement work really well .  Chunky and demanding they make quite a statement. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjavQ9pAuuEmOGOL7ewXi6y0U9ro_juMQRE2NZBjRPg2dh9E6uaSiOQT0prL9Sm4iHIz1WV3H5A4aZFpX7mwRHPvXkJiclBb7yRrB0rYy3pfAKwEHzSXbiMNZhn2LKDb05ZSq-S7ZFUzvCD/s1600/7459155602319567_jVFqRMbt_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjavQ9pAuuEmOGOL7ewXi6y0U9ro_juMQRE2NZBjRPg2dh9E6uaSiOQT0prL9Sm4iHIz1WV3H5A4aZFpX7mwRHPvXkJiclBb7yRrB0rYy3pfAKwEHzSXbiMNZhn2LKDb05ZSq-S7ZFUzvCD/s640/7459155602319567_jVFqRMbt_c.jpg" width="425" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCoeK9wDeWqtNYJjgYNNgJqI9d2Rt4mfX-QijF7ERr2HyO8gwsnSNGf3h_785KYtbJL78XYsRBkpvM9nusex7guIUSeOjae7yBAeTMrJz0tZWlndP25K6XAfXP_WFnTV5hu7RWuCcLDgit/s1600/67554063130260085_543zdKtj_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCoeK9wDeWqtNYJjgYNNgJqI9d2Rt4mfX-QijF7ERr2HyO8gwsnSNGf3h_785KYtbJL78XYsRBkpvM9nusex7guIUSeOjae7yBAeTMrJz0tZWlndP25K6XAfXP_WFnTV5hu7RWuCcLDgit/s1600/67554063130260085_543zdKtj_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.trendir.com/house-design/?start=15">source</a></div><div style="text-align: left;">While this is probably rough wood that is stained, it looks like charred wood.  It is this quality that is so appealing in this application. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCoeK9wDeWqtNYJjgYNNgJqI9d2Rt4mfX-QijF7ERr2HyO8gwsnSNGf3h_785KYtbJL78XYsRBkpvM9nusex7guIUSeOjae7yBAeTMrJz0tZWlndP25K6XAfXP_WFnTV5hu7RWuCcLDgit/s1600/67554063130260085_543zdKtj_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCoeK9wDeWqtNYJjgYNNgJqI9d2Rt4mfX-QijF7ERr2HyO8gwsnSNGf3h_785KYtbJL78XYsRBkpvM9nusex7guIUSeOjae7yBAeTMrJz0tZWlndP25K6XAfXP_WFnTV5hu7RWuCcLDgit/s400/67554063130260085_543zdKtj_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />I guess you are getting the message that I love asymmetry.  This delicate shelf that extends beyond the fireplace on one side is the perfect resting place for two white vases that reference the colour of the fireplace surround. <br /><br /><b>Accent Walls  </b><br /><br /><b>A</b>nd don't forget the power of wood for an accent wall.  Either natural or stained, you can't beat the  warmth of real wood. <b> </b>I especially love it paired with white walls and furniture.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsXO9mbvSduvxEGvseU5b9Yr_QGGeF2EG4tTlw42oQLxqvBI82dRScaLLW0ge7V-_Fn-lBkzBVsGEDh5rrvNH_Kgne7YpdYFEMfgunmKQC44xLwWQAMehjfTXOw5I6hzo6MryHBKhL0m3M/s1600/239042692691005540_b2LkHxI8_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsXO9mbvSduvxEGvseU5b9Yr_QGGeF2EG4tTlw42oQLxqvBI82dRScaLLW0ge7V-_Fn-lBkzBVsGEDh5rrvNH_Kgne7YpdYFEMfgunmKQC44xLwWQAMehjfTXOw5I6hzo6MryHBKhL0m3M/s400/239042692691005540_b2LkHxI8_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://australianinteriordesignawards.com/gallery/2010/7/302">source</a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/158335/living-room-modern-living-room-san-francisco"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://st.houzz.com/simgs/4fd1807f0da22d4c_8-2222/modern-living-room.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/22095/West-Chelsea-Loft-modern-living-room-new-york">source</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUzUnvJRZBc6f15-HYvlPJz-dNMZtWCyBfkCUpGv4ulTstzbxy0PIks-T7XPL4vJ-qxgs9zItPrQhHAkPLzMepPL9trObSqfOnidf7I0Rr8DrN7zlcGQl4Drk3m06ASaYx-Pv7UD8nj42/s1600/258253359852335926_jmvJh8Jb_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUzUnvJRZBc6f15-HYvlPJz-dNMZtWCyBfkCUpGv4ulTstzbxy0PIks-T7XPL4vJ-qxgs9zItPrQhHAkPLzMepPL9trObSqfOnidf7I0Rr8DrN7zlcGQl4Drk3m06ASaYx-Pv7UD8nj42/s1600/258253359852335926_jmvJh8Jb_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEquH4HwjXV6Nl2Ao-ZtCqc-ZSzBhGbvkzFa6ckDKRVsD9xGKTg73YyS_wA9VUlhhyphenhyphenF3cXMyFm5zaEmdDc44G1vyk3iqrLOdVpSM2upwnzUbsPnQ7mtT-i8q96FkGxztWaAOuV-xu9r1O1/s1600/36310340717087657_eaxa0Rpt_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/83005/Master-Bedroom-Barnwood-contemporary-bedroom-other-metro"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://st.houzz.com/simgs/fa31fbac0cd82f49_8-1000/contemporary-bedroom.jpg" width="480" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjavQ9pAuuEmOGOL7ewXi6y0U9ro_juMQRE2NZBjRPg2dh9E6uaSiOQT0prL9Sm4iHIz1WV3H5A4aZFpX7mwRHPvXkJiclBb7yRrB0rYy3pfAKwEHzSXbiMNZhn2LKDb05ZSq-S7ZFUzvCD/s1600/7459155602319567_jVFqRMbt_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/jagodaarchitecture/emily-jagoda" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">emily jagoda  Houzz</a></small></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXAPAHrEVswf_Ubm_nqr32jNTa8HphYmOB9rt44EIFPGcEvtljahZSq4xwm2PnvvtRY7JdOpDbdgq1-K2EE1rUN4bMQhwyhyphenhyphenXHQpveTUEqcvkOh1xAmiKhIKbFPo-xHPiaXvoCikpIvkAR/s1600/75364993733772369_xqVPL4m9_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYLYZi46clDks62tIAfEW7NTmTyQ447og1b2_0gRhyphenhyphenwXAn6h37qgmcvkcP8fokvagxRsZ5rZ5Vdo0cvZ3PNJDAIqa_1meNa0u4DDxTzjwxQirIre6lMOseCgxDXIhq4qKTdKvPGp6wq1B/s1600/79868593361201837_cGLUqU33_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>

Accenting with wood

  There are so many ways you can make your space inviting .  My recommendation today is to  consider wood because it can add both warmth and...

Read more »

Flying high

Lately I'm seeing birds in many design magazines and home decor shops. They keep popping up on wallpaper, pillows, bedding, pottery, art work and in cages.  It seems the sky's the limit!  Here are some of my favourite ways to integrate a theme into your home. It doesn't have to be birds, it could be butterflies, fish etc. <br /><br /><b>Wallpaper  </b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/216173/Heather-Garrett-eclectic-laundry-room-raleigh"><img alt="Heather Garrett eclectic laundry room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/216173_0_8-4417-eclectic-laundry-room.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Houzz</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"> I love the design possibilities of wallpaper, but I can also remember all those hours of scraping it off walls.  My preference now  is to use wallpaper on smaller spaces or as an accent.  The colours in this pattern work perfectly with other colours in the room. In a small space which isn't lived in daily you can be a little more whimsical or adventurous. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/29466/living-room-eclectic-living-room-los-angeles"><img alt="living room eclectic living room" border="0" height="300" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/29466_0_8-7247-eclectic-living-room.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/eclectic/living-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/3969/maison21" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">maison21</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">This vibrant yellow is hard to ignore and it is used sparingly.  Framing sections is a perfect solution for a shot of pattern and colour.  Look closely and you will see tiny birds.  The graphic pillow repeats the motif in a much bolder way.  </span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/171677/Creating-Exploration-eclectic-kids-dallas"><img alt="Creating Exploration eclectic kids" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/171677_0_8-5562-eclectic-kids.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/erikaey/erika-everett-design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Erika Everett Design</a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> And the bird theme is carried through this nursery even to the ceiling. </span></small></div><br /><br /><b>Wall Decals and Stencils</b><br /><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/165774/Four-Walls-and-a-Roof-contemporary-kids-san-francisco"><img alt="Four Walls and a Roof contemporary kids" border="0" height="253" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/165774_0_8-4135-contemporary-kids.jpg" width="400" /></a><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/21814/Lucy-McLintic" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Lucy McLintic</a></small></div><small><span style="font-size: small;"> These white birds  are subtle and fresh even with the addition of pattern on another wall. I think white drawings are so minimal  because they just hint at their presence.   </span></small><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6NMEF_qZiGK_Vz2vh3HW4ED8m0kx8kUltl0ZgPvSgTCPBcMEq1MgBEv3IOHfumHcXl-Xd9Bd8iLrOX0d_lrD-uc8HR6-oZl48rSO37eirD-rfRgJ9PeE4ChIKiLYcinkDNRTbCiotOWjs/s1600/171277592048553326_8PWHB2RX_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6NMEF_qZiGK_Vz2vh3HW4ED8m0kx8kUltl0ZgPvSgTCPBcMEq1MgBEv3IOHfumHcXl-Xd9Bd8iLrOX0d_lrD-uc8HR6-oZl48rSO37eirD-rfRgJ9PeE4ChIKiLYcinkDNRTbCiotOWjs/s400/171277592048553326_8PWHB2RX_b.jpg" width="275" /></a><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://customnurseryart.blogspot.ca/2011/08/nursery-wallpaper-accent-wall.html">Custom Nursery Art </a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">Look up!  Look waaaay up! What a lovely finishing touch in a nursery!   </span></small><br /><br /><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/212199/oniroco-eclectic-kids-"><img alt="oniroco eclectic kids" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/212199_0_8-9866-eclectic-kids.jpg" width="300" /></a><small><span style="font-size: small;"> <br /> </span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small></div><div style="color: #444444;"><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/oniroco/oniroco" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Oniroco</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><small> <span style="font-size: small;"> You have to love these graphic birdcages and birds on the wall, but don't miss the pillows!</span> <br /></small></div></div><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitockOc1UZmHJ2mjfjRJ52ldx0IL2BLClTjaIVskTNUEMUnfuTvvPeOUUrnkB7Q9KDVCfsY5fekKhE9q5iRT51TVFnOx2p3BVWCUNE8JwSHy1CMWFWxvbm_e-BgE61AtUf7awkR83eQj5d/s1600/birdcage-via-stylehive.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitockOc1UZmHJ2mjfjRJ52ldx0IL2BLClTjaIVskTNUEMUnfuTvvPeOUUrnkB7Q9KDVCfsY5fekKhE9q5iRT51TVFnOx2p3BVWCUNE8JwSHy1CMWFWxvbm_e-BgE61AtUf7awkR83eQj5d/s320/birdcage-via-stylehive.jpg" width="320" /></a></span><br /><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;">And here they  are again in  graphic black providing a  backdrop for this dark sofa.  I like how the curved lines of the sofa interact with the curves of the cages. And following up with the real thing......</span></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Birdcages </b></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/90898/Family-Room-Details-traditional-family-room-dallas"><img alt="Family Room Details traditional family room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/90898_0_8-0225-traditional-family-room.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/charmhome/cristi-holcombe" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Cristi Holcombe</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Using cages is a way to reference our fine feathered friends without having them actually  appear.  The absence of presence so to speak. I love the weathered driftwood with the straight lines of the cages.  </span></div></div><div><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/67310/---other-metros"></a><small><span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span></small><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4X_YvHqwglOsvV-tTcrc2hh3c0vwWe1VwzGMEZVYbux9VdVhShVRlBXavE7ML41uRt-w7ZPvy1E0x5wSl8cktJTNG6TU34Ob3x9UJk0A_bqhHeIfZixsvr1Bn77CtgGuC9U3IPjwb3Dur/s1600/171277592048553364_Jyzow53v_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4X_YvHqwglOsvV-tTcrc2hh3c0vwWe1VwzGMEZVYbux9VdVhShVRlBXavE7ML41uRt-w7ZPvy1E0x5wSl8cktJTNG6TU34Ob3x9UJk0A_bqhHeIfZixsvr1Bn77CtgGuC9U3IPjwb3Dur/s400/171277592048553364_Jyzow53v_b.jpg" width="320" /></a><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"></span></small><small><a href="http://thedecorologist.com/wp/collective-soul-birdcages"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">The Decorologist  </span></span></a></small></div><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b>You can also attach birdcages to your wall for a very three dimensional look which leads me to other forms of 3 D accessories....   </span></small><br /><br /><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Sculpture </b></span></small></div><div style="color: #444444;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/361840/Accessory-Closeup-traditional-entry-new-orleans"><img alt="Accessory Closeup traditional entry" border="0" height="289" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/361840_0_8-2147-traditional-entry.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designer/new-orleans" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/nelsonwilsoninteriors/nelson-wilson-interiors" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Nelson Wilson Interiors</a></small><br /><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Tucked away on a table top amidst  a display of flowers and books, </span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/524506/Interieurs-Showroom-by-Francine-Gardner-eclectic-home-office-new-york"><img alt="Interieurs Showroom by Francine Gardner eclectic home office" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/524506_0_8-7524-eclectic-home-office.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444;"><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/interieurs/interieurs-by-francine-gardner" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"> Francine Gardner</a></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> commanding a shelf in a very contemporary office space, </span></small></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/67310/---other-metros"><img alt=" " border="0" height="398" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/67310_0_8-4894--.jpg" width="400" /></a><small> </small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">spaces design</a></small></div><small><br /></small><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> or hanging in pristine whiteness to delight a new baby, birds take many forms in homes.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/121277/Eames-House-Bird-by-Vitra-modern-artwork-"><img alt="Eames House Bird by Vitra modern artwork" border="0" height="326" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/121277_0_8-9266-modern-artwork.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444;"><div style="text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/nestliving.1321432511/nestliving" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">nestliving</a></small></div><br /> The iconic Eames bird can be found in many styled homes. Charles and Ray Eames had the original carved bird and constantly rearranged  it in various vignettes around their home and when styling photos. Because of the colour and simple lines the bird was sought by Eames fans.   Using 3 D scans of the original bird Vitra is now creating <a href="http://www.dwr.com/product/eames-house-bird.do?sortby=ourPicks">reproductions</a> of it. <small><br /></small></div><br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Art work </b></span></div><small><br /></small><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/218695/Edgewood-Townhouse-modern--atlanta"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img alt="Edgewood Townhouse modern " border="0" height="640" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/218695_0_8-6802-modern-.jpg" width="430" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/ysdesignblog/niki-papadopoulos" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Niki Papadopoulos</a></small></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">Silhouettes of birds and branches provide a very eye catching headboard design. </span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRqRZg0Y4_8PTZly8HCNRNO3nWFmnWywOow8jP2Cj3KK2lvDUQCvN8yrX-G6lVybl-5zXnqJmHwHa-L5jWp5SLtsBFcv5CtwrvAH8hp24m2b7GTrq3DUZoSO3PTREEicjvcjGpC-9uP_Bj/s1600/171277592048553378_bTZhq5k4_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/46875/Black---White-Master-Bedroom-with-a-Touch-of-Teal-contemporary-bedroom-charlotte"><img alt="Black & White Master Bedroom with a Touch of Teal contemporary bedroom" border="0" height="267" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/46875_0_8-7371-contemporary-bedroom.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/46875/Black---White-Master-Bedroom-with-a-Touch-of-Teal-contemporary-bedroom-charlotte">Emily A. Clarke</a></span></div>Small prints of various birds matted large and stacked on either side of this bed make for an interesting symmetrical layout.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/21136/Spring-2009-British-Colonial-Entry-Room-Design-Ideas---Williams-Sonoma-Home-tropical--"><img alt="Spring 2009 British Colonial Entry Room Design Ideas | Williams-Sonoma Home tropical " border="0" height="278" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/21136_0_8-9388-tropical-.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="color: #444444;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/wshome/williamssonoma-home" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Williams-Sonoma Home</a></small></div></div><br /><span style="font-size: small;"> Don't forget you don't have to hang artwork.  It can be beautifully displayed as part of a vignette. </span><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></b><br /><br /><br /></div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><b><span style="font-size: small;">Painted Furniture </span></b></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/27180/black-birds---other-metros"><img alt="black birds " border="0" height="329" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/27180_0_8-0172--.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/3796/bryonieportercom" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">bryonieporter.com</a></small></div><br />Birds appear to be a favourite motif on painted furniture.  This striking combination begs your attention.  It would make a fantastic art piece at the end of a hallway. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4C6Xber1Hbo2j4kdcrXNAHXoDJm98ycoWX2-ALvhZQj9QNQOfuamzvB5t19hyg2DLyO0yPGv2JOmXe1tuRJmdkarqMmMz1T-_0fCkwF6deHOpQLrXKDnc3zMhYfZFi7Bzm-fzNfQEV1k/s1600/171277592048553350_pAhChkkn_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4X_YvHqwglOsvV-tTcrc2hh3c0vwWe1VwzGMEZVYbux9VdVhShVRlBXavE7ML41uRt-w7ZPvy1E0x5wSl8cktJTNG6TU34Ob3x9UJk0A_bqhHeIfZixsvr1Bn77CtgGuC9U3IPjwb3Dur/s1600/171277592048553364_Jyzow53v_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRqRZg0Y4_8PTZly8HCNRNO3nWFmnWywOow8jP2Cj3KK2lvDUQCvN8yrX-G6lVybl-5zXnqJmHwHa-L5jWp5SLtsBFcv5CtwrvAH8hp24m2b7GTrq3DUZoSO3PTREEicjvcjGpC-9uP_Bj/s1600/171277592048553378_bTZhq5k4_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4C6Xber1Hbo2j4kdcrXNAHXoDJm98ycoWX2-ALvhZQj9QNQOfuamzvB5t19hyg2DLyO0yPGv2JOmXe1tuRJmdkarqMmMz1T-_0fCkwF6deHOpQLrXKDnc3zMhYfZFi7Bzm-fzNfQEV1k/s400/171277592048553350_pAhChkkn_b.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.homedecorators.com/P/Hand-Painted_Bird_Chest/">Home Decorators  </a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif7aat_Q8UPUM8Kb5Ol2wffazorkyEDS40qfVsRzjJ-NFUFh4JoGfodCSxbHhCIhI7lPlUIRiw3PW8ksPHzWJteEDRtNvN9EC5OkrRLapb2NhcdyReOUyD5NyuzlirFh1-yMs7UrE1isqd/s1600/207587864043927317_MBRh6bBt_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> What a difference from the dresser above.  This one is all calmness and delicacy. </div><br /><b> Lighting </b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRuC61CJ3lDI1wUbtI5WDZ1JkD3zZkmJI1SMvvvfxBifjEP0ezoJixdgC-rcci4nPdnFgUdvLryYpvRHDGcKbuDRKbLo0LOL50OY9WepjaSx5k2Z6Gnqo3b3RnUOHqX0SHHWe_sJ6fRm6e/s1600/81487074477820722_G2jgyu7O_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/131952/Mountain-House-eclectic-dining-room-denver"><img alt="Mountain House eclectic dining room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/131952_0_8-5869-eclectic-dining-room.jpg" width="293" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/timcuppettarchitects/tim-cuppett-architects" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Tim Cuppett Architects</a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="color: #444444;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/155007/Birdie-Chandelier-by-Ingo-Maurer-eclectic-chandeliers-" target="_blank"> Ingo Maurer</a>  birdy chandelier is a modern classic that will always inspire interest. </div><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/46259/Lola-B-s-traditional-living-room-other-metros"><img alt="Lola Bs traditional living room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/46259_0_8-8841-traditional-living-room.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444;"><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/media-and-blogs/chicago" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/kaseybuick/kasey-buick" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Kasey Buick</a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;"> And a more traditional take on a birdie chandelier. </span></small></div></div><div><br /> I could keep going but this post is already too long!<br /><br /></div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><br /><a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/wshome/williamssonoma-home" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a></small></div><div style="color: #444444;">Do you have an interesting way you have included bird motifs in your decor?  Just click on the comments button and have your say. </div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><br /><a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/oniroco/oniroco" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a></small></div>

Flying high

Lately I'm seeing birds in many design magazines and home decor shops. They keep popping up on wallpaper, pillows, bedding, pottery, art...

Read more »

5 ways to use a screen

<div>I'm surprised I don't see more screens used in decorating because they are very versatile and there are so many styles to choose. Have you thought about using a screen in a recent home decorating re do?People have been using them for centuries in their homes beginning in 4th century BC in China.<br /><br /> Through the centuries Chinese folding screens were ornately decorated with traditional symbols of health, prosperity, and joy and some were  painted with up to 30 layers of lacquer making them appear illuminated from within. In contrast, when screens migrated to Japan they took on a much different look  with their thin wood frames and paper panels. Eventually, the folding screen was imported into the West via European traders. Throughout history, the folding screen has had both decorative and functional uses.  Today the folding screen is still a multi-purpose decorating tool. <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Create an accent wall</b></span></div><br />Large screens can be used as a backdrop along a plain, uninspired wall.  If you use one for this purpose it's important to choose one that fits the scale of the room. </div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"><br /></a><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/29363/Phoebe-Howard" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/124433/Marcelo-Brito---Sao-Paulo---Brazil-contemporary-living-room-other-metros"><img alt="Marcelo Brito - Sao Paulo - Brazil contemporary living room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/124433_0_8-7971-contemporary-living-room.jpg" width="324" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/living-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/16342/Marcelo-Brito" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Marcelo Brito</a></small><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Often you will see an application that will prompt other ideas.  If I had this beautiful screen to work with I would put a  plain light coloured sofa in front of it.  The clean lines would show up well against the intricate design. Did you notice how the pot lights shine down on the wall behind the screen adding a layer of light?  <small><br /></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEgbBt4c4eXpATbzzTkQVnGxtWTVglYJOIyrnhflJ-fudXOCB-4CsbyOSRUz5Ezm_KCauDrU_Nx3mnvzKIzqCTEevFLTLCly-4BibY5h_qTgs744EsZQTQ7WawNXDZ1lg3PVLimptpc13W/s1600/pointclickhome.com+alessandra+branca+pied-a-terre-lead1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEgbBt4c4eXpATbzzTkQVnGxtWTVglYJOIyrnhflJ-fudXOCB-4CsbyOSRUz5Ezm_KCauDrU_Nx3mnvzKIzqCTEevFLTLCly-4BibY5h_qTgs744EsZQTQ7WawNXDZ1lg3PVLimptpc13W/s400/pointclickhome.com+alessandra+branca+pied-a-terre-lead1.jpg" width="400" /></a><small> </small></div><small><a href="http://thepeakofchic.blogspot.com/"> Alessandra Branca </a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"> Chinoiserie Screen are design classics. They add an exotic, dramatic  note to any room.  Since they are often multipanelled and quite striking they work beautifully as a major accent.  They will not be overlooked! Imagine this room without the floor lamps.  Would you like or dislike the effect?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimjJoLmy0pMAAL2Mh99uUmoOo50hR6nc_-XFjbwgt1gagL8FtIvbKtYWgZs1ZGP44skqiglkWYPYfY2uyovHfo5e-yNPQlVuRHAjcMZFFb5myhjgQvtksF0ns3W8nhPTQ2S40uaY9ThzCx/s1600/331c5b5af9e3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimjJoLmy0pMAAL2Mh99uUmoOo50hR6nc_-XFjbwgt1gagL8FtIvbKtYWgZs1ZGP44skqiglkWYPYfY2uyovHfo5e-yNPQlVuRHAjcMZFFb5myhjgQvtksF0ns3W8nhPTQ2S40uaY9ThzCx/s400/331c5b5af9e3.jpg" width="400" /></a><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.decorpad.com/photo.htm?photoId=7609&relatedPhotoId=82649&index=2">Decor Pad</a></span><small> </small></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">I love the layered look of this room . The screen has been placed on top of a  patterned wall.. Pattern and textures have been employed so well.  The pop of yellow is a masterful finishing touch and it makes the black screen so much more dramatic.. </span></small><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span> </small></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-iMoDLOElAlOJjLSDzds9JAJovUCyfEU_M5aIhXnY9paibGSiBv7OVHrfrH1rvU-FKUvohoEWwq_f5RNpB1i_gN7Pnz7-Qc5oA7fpmHDq6akFEemkfrtfhiwgHY59KnEbD8X8FuOKNd8Y/s1600/a+creative+interior_3247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-iMoDLOElAlOJjLSDzds9JAJovUCyfEU_M5aIhXnY9paibGSiBv7OVHrfrH1rvU-FKUvohoEWwq_f5RNpB1i_gN7Pnz7-Qc5oA7fpmHDq6akFEemkfrtfhiwgHY59KnEbD8X8FuOKNd8Y/s400/a+creative+interior_3247.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small> via <a href="http://www.acreativeinterior.com/">A Creative Interior</a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;">This treatment is simple and very effective. I like the way the screen  extends and includes the night tables drawing everything into the largest element.  Keeping all objects close in colour/value makes this small room expand. This  screen would be so easy to construct from plywood or MDF and then cover with wallpaper or metallic fabric.</span></small><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span> </small></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Use as wall art </b></span><br /><small>  </small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/47622/Ral99-eclectic-entry-other-metros"><img alt="Ral99 eclectic entry" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/47622_0_8-6553-eclectic-entry.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444;"><div style="text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/47622/Ral99-eclectic-entry-other-metros">Interiors with Attitude </a></small></div><small> </small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Using a bench as a table and then backing it  with this fantastic carved screen is an interesting idea.  This screen would look equally good hung on a wall as a sculpture. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/83980/dining-room-modern-dining-room-los-angeles"><img alt="dining room modern dining room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/83980_0_8-3285-modern-dining-room.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/11254/twenty7-design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">twenty7 design</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">This  screen is quite stunning and sculptural.  It works so well with the contemporary furnishings. But what is that doll sculpture doing in the corner? </span></small></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/204844/Laight-Loft-modern-bedroom-new-york"><img alt="Laight Loft modern bedroom" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/204844_0_8-4824-modern-bedroom.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><br /><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/24263/Incorporated" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Incorporated</a></small><br /><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;">Everything about this room hangs together. </span></small><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><br /><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/316823/Pueblo-St-Master-Bedroom-mediterranean-bedroom-santa-barbara"><img alt="Pueblo St Master Bedroom mediterranean bedroom" border="0" height="264" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/316823_0_8-1087-mediterranean-bedroom.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/28786/Lori-Smyth" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Lori Smyth</a></small><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm not a lover of salmon and blue but it is very effective in this room. This room works because  large amounts of white was used to let the painting shine. </span></span></div><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Fill an empty corner </b></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/327766/Breakers-Project---atlanta"><img alt="Breakers Project " border="0" height="267" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/327766_0_8-9188--.jpg" width="400" /></a><small> </small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/29363/Phoebe-Howard" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Phoebe Howard</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">This  screen does more than fill an empty corner.  It adds visual height to the space and draws your eye across the room while providing an additional texture. </span></small></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/110000/Hollywood-Residence-eclectic-living-room-los-angeles"><img alt="Hollywood Residence eclectic living room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/110000_0_8-9272-eclectic-living-room.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/14505/Elizabeth-Gordon" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Elizabeth Gordon</a></small></div><br />You can also use screens effectively to emphasize a symmetrical layout. The vertical flow draws your eye through the room. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b> Make a headboard</b></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq752vwLSSq48ZxM_KcCvjoiPysTahvqQAtgtCTe00CeVQNAvyP7ktTYm7usktYfA3ccTrUUlUu9vMDsgagXap1ewzaOeIaz38YiTnFNYjWuU21hWrKFQbiJCichnrr_p0z7xcS7Ldd_B9/s1600/screen-headboard-medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq752vwLSSq48ZxM_KcCvjoiPysTahvqQAtgtCTe00CeVQNAvyP7ktTYm7usktYfA3ccTrUUlUu9vMDsgagXap1ewzaOeIaz38YiTnFNYjWuU21hWrKFQbiJCichnrr_p0z7xcS7Ldd_B9/s400/screen-headboard-medium.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.homemadesimple.com/en-US/homedecor/Pages/decorating-with-folding-screens.aspx"></a><a href="http://www.homemadesimple.com/en-US/homedecor/Pages/decorating-with-folding-screens.aspx">Home Made Simple</a></div><br />This is quite an amazing colour! You could also remove one section and hang the two parts horizontally. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/88852/Sacha---Johan-s-High-Risk---High-Reward-Home-House-Call---Apartment-Therapy-New-eclectic-bedroom-new-york"><img alt="Sacha & Johans High Risk / High Reward Home House Call | Apartment Therapy New eclectic bedroom" border="0" height="265" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/88852_0_8-3906-eclectic-bedroom.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Apartment Therapy</span><br /><br />Who would not like this room?  I love the colour combination in addition to the fantastic headboard.  With the degree of intricacy  in the screen you need to keep everything else simple. <br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/67267/---other-metros"><img alt=" " border="0" height="257" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/67267_0_8-2319--.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">houzz</div><br />To think I was planning to send my louvered doors to  RESTORE!  This changes my mind totally.  This room works so well because all the elements are similar in colour. Nothing stands out; everything plays a subtle role in creating the whole.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Divide a room</b></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/128234/Downtown-penthouse-contemporary-bedroom-nashville"><img alt="Downtown penthouse contemporary bedroom" border="0" height="332" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/128234_0_8-0336-contemporary-bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/16827/Amelie-de-Gaulle-Interiors" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Amelie de Gaulle Interiors</a></small><br /><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;">Do you have a favourite use for folding screens ? Feel free to share.</span></small></div><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>

5 ways to use a screen

I'm surprised I don't see more screens used in decorating because they are very versatile and there are so many styles to choose. Ha...

Read more »