Thoughts on seasonal accessorizing

Do you constantly change up your accessories seasonally, or do you stick to basics collected over time and add a few seasonal  things to spice  up your space?  Perhaps you are a minimalist and don't think seasonal accessories are an important part of a space or you dislike "clutter".  Obviously all types of homes and interests exist, and there is no right way to decorate your home, there are only personal tastes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRsMSwni5JuQFpPXr6UEZIUJ6Rx373KI0vcc7_1c5BMMszrnbeb_3LyQIpSr_hU8Sit2D_mKt-PfpYNsQdIVQxbGiKe7HOeY2u9yqCpBB4rEkjTq3BPbaNTNq4Hwf3n20nLF8C2ARkSu7K/s1600/hallloween-mantle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRsMSwni5JuQFpPXr6UEZIUJ6Rx373KI0vcc7_1c5BMMszrnbeb_3LyQIpSr_hU8Sit2D_mKt-PfpYNsQdIVQxbGiKe7HOeY2u9yqCpBB4rEkjTq3BPbaNTNq4Hwf3n20nLF8C2ARkSu7K/s1600/hallloween-mantle.jpg" width="298" /></a></div><h4 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://celebrationsathomeblog.com/2012/10/black-and-white-halloween-decor.html"><span id="goog_915964650"></span>source</a><span id="goog_915964651"></span></span></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;">Maximum accessorizing</h4> I read a variety of blogs and am constantly amazed by the number of people who go "whole hog" for the seasons and holidays.  They are constantly changing it up, creating mantles and table displays for every special event.  The continual "hunt and gather" shopping and creating  that these looks require tire me out just thinking about it.  I could never manage it with my schedule (or pocketbook).  I always wonder where all these objects are stored in someone's home.   Perhaps we  become too practical with age.  When  talking to friends we all seem to have the same ideas about  retiring objects not acquiring them.  I am wondering if maximum decorating is age related!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinViNuUhfT7vwzq2_VTSjxEq7mTturEU1hfOIB41p4OwODENkn0w19FEyiYGmE7bOT5U3Q2PAmExMByrX_h50ejahWboqyiQVHUw5Uz0kV8LgQiobGMipQsb5GnKEWMiZlJkI-AjDstHeR/s1600/minimal+-+fall+-decor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinViNuUhfT7vwzq2_VTSjxEq7mTturEU1hfOIB41p4OwODENkn0w19FEyiYGmE7bOT5U3Q2PAmExMByrX_h50ejahWboqyiQVHUw5Uz0kV8LgQiobGMipQsb5GnKEWMiZlJkI-AjDstHeR/s1600/minimal+-+fall+-decor.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><h4><br /></h4><h4>Minimal accessorizing</h4>Then there's the other side of the coin,  minimalist advocates  who are simplifying their lives as much as possible and that means eliminating "stuff"  and embracing function and clean lined beauty. That doesn't mean they ignore the holidays;  they will often add subtle, simple and often natural seasonal touches.  I  understand this desire to have a quiet, unadorned space.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h4>My personal taste</h4> I am a middle of the road kind of gal  when it comes  to the final layers in decorating.  I create variety by moving around my favourite things; you never know what will be where.  I also like to live with things that mean something to me, with  that meaning coming from various associations.  However, I do give a nod to holidays and seasons by adding in a few special touches to celebrate.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZaO8PQYh26YaWkX1nAS1GFXgsPssyKnWrliJ2ckT52wnDgl0nUV7CziJuEWmPscdDVyOzpqwXtln7cI9DrI6ZYFyzL4G8_jhr0yOVOpVsty7Oid4ZhPqnPsploObx56fQSbzNV6ne6TfH/s1600/flowers+-+quilt+block.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZaO8PQYh26YaWkX1nAS1GFXgsPssyKnWrliJ2ckT52wnDgl0nUV7CziJuEWmPscdDVyOzpqwXtln7cI9DrI6ZYFyzL4G8_jhr0yOVOpVsty7Oid4ZhPqnPsploObx56fQSbzNV6ne6TfH/s1600/flowers+-+quilt+block.JPG" width="311" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quilt block by Sharon Griffin</td></tr></tbody></table>As an artist, I am interested in objects that are original, hand crafted, and have beautiful shapes.   My current love is this quilt block (it takes the idea of a quilt block to another level) created by a friend of mine.  You can see how she makes her own home unique<a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2014/10/at-home-contemporary-quilter.html"> here.</a> The gerber daisies are my nod to fall, and the colours in the quilt block will work year around with reds and purples prominent.  So one container, one piece of art and lots of options.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8Rp6VflIiFVFddxBuUlBsL2Mg8hg6JxVJ3pIwAfrzmuJHtg2AHe3dAh2lup7NAvRn20LSFivnThj6WrZBZx7j99eo-qKFTutGB6Y7VcSO4kpG-bAv_vv70gMy5acsyXtLzdQKBUXbLdk/s1600/kubus-four.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8Rp6VflIiFVFddxBuUlBsL2Mg8hg6JxVJ3pIwAfrzmuJHtg2AHe3dAh2lup7NAvRn20LSFivnThj6WrZBZx7j99eo-qKFTutGB6Y7VcSO4kpG-bAv_vv70gMy5acsyXtLzdQKBUXbLdk/s1600/kubus-four.JPG" width="322" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kubus 4 Candle holder</td></tr></tbody></table>Many of the iconic designs of  the mid century modern period continue to resonate with me and over time I am adding my favourites to my decor. I love my Kubus 4 with its square, open base that allows you to place small objects within its frame.  You can also change candle colours if you are so inclined.<br /><br />Then there are subject matter preferences or design elements that catch my attention - perhaps too much at times. Leaves, twigs, birds, squares and circles/spheres are favourite motifs that keep appearing in various ways throughout my home. <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3IHDWUPl-d42bWUTy_bx4AlK9oh5RVKl-G_IWqtD-7Il7KEEqVQYvqBNyqqgpOOnPZCfkSIAdNE89JrKZovaIxJB4MlYGO9WrkECkcj6GdwHMWTDUlLxPmOzhrmJXXYG2YsPVRux2jDGP/s1600/sea-urchin-circle-bowl.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3IHDWUPl-d42bWUTy_bx4AlK9oh5RVKl-G_IWqtD-7Il7KEEqVQYvqBNyqqgpOOnPZCfkSIAdNE89JrKZovaIxJB4MlYGO9WrkECkcj6GdwHMWTDUlLxPmOzhrmJXXYG2YsPVRux2jDGP/s1600/sea-urchin-circle-bowl.JPG" width="350" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Circle motifs</td></tr></tbody></table>You can go too far when you love something! The stylized sea urchins sculptures - a Target special- relate well to the black spotted bowl.   They remind me of my lazy summer days beachcombing,  and in the midst of winter, I need all the positive reminders of better times I can get.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj30DTh1_8nPS8mc3MK-lNkDHkQwL-mNbJ-UAOOBKqQP3OYBg6iy4Qx7Jv5Qsow2DVpEymUSUt34RX-GMDCTYFAYN50FJLMLI0hfvAo7-3xNK3AoMLQnv6WrNErobIWmNczUPG1CA7TFjY7/s1600/seasonal-bowl_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj30DTh1_8nPS8mc3MK-lNkDHkQwL-mNbJ-UAOOBKqQP3OYBg6iy4Qx7Jv5Qsow2DVpEymUSUt34RX-GMDCTYFAYN50FJLMLI0hfvAo7-3xNK3AoMLQnv6WrNErobIWmNczUPG1CA7TFjY7/s1600/seasonal-bowl_01.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />I went back three times before I purchased this bowl at Bowrings - a local store. When I realized the circles are transparent I knew it was a keeper.  If you add coloured tissue paper inside it you have a quick change seasonal object.  Multipurpose is the name of the game when you want simple seasonal decor.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Can you see my interest in nature creeping into my space in different ways?</div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPIsPdYFldb3azwmQ3bOdPo7JR2ZNOq9Y2-AaVqTWEgJrbpDTBzOiMByFEXJJDjPLXoQ9iRowx0OZ-WULQSSi2spRqsNEfjgVyK30LK8w-jwXtexVPXfOYmbFFvfrsOMediNPAvuR5dgx2/s1600/dining+-+vignette.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPIsPdYFldb3azwmQ3bOdPo7JR2ZNOq9Y2-AaVqTWEgJrbpDTBzOiMByFEXJJDjPLXoQ9iRowx0OZ-WULQSSi2spRqsNEfjgVyK30LK8w-jwXtexVPXfOYmbFFvfrsOMediNPAvuR5dgx2/s1600/dining+-+vignette.JPG" width="296" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plants and twigs and a nestled bird</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvy-wdPnhACZGtrnxVPX2HuKUt3_i-Zzn54l26YV2XMm0QvSr0JxOx6H0DSj8oqGPTyszyX2z1SVI9SSDxEu8aU_VYXXLxkcu5Py-4wBFm4p2oeXELY2R-yvcR7RmGQ1k-s648jVTpu5vR/s1600/tulips-bird+dish.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvy-wdPnhACZGtrnxVPX2HuKUt3_i-Zzn54l26YV2XMm0QvSr0JxOx6H0DSj8oqGPTyszyX2z1SVI9SSDxEu8aU_VYXXLxkcu5Py-4wBFm4p2oeXELY2R-yvcR7RmGQ1k-s648jVTpu5vR/s1600/tulips-bird+dish.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bird bowl by Erin McArthur</td></tr></tbody></table>Flowers are always a part of  my decor no matter where I am.   Sometimes I make  arrangements from my gardens,  sometimes they are purchased, and sometimes a good fake is thrown in to mix it up a bit.  Another bird in hiding.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA-CM5_7y76hV5edPSVMerLE27DyWwq-gEEwBs064NYN5kub5-fho3qzZUQH7_zPG1nXCc3X4CAMcHerAv0wL2DJyI2mKjfJvXqD48bAV7jKs9YRisy3HW88xvOqveVMMI4DrtpEbV7m7Y/s1600/bamboo-walnut-block.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA-CM5_7y76hV5edPSVMerLE27DyWwq-gEEwBs064NYN5kub5-fho3qzZUQH7_zPG1nXCc3X4CAMcHerAv0wL2DJyI2mKjfJvXqD48bAV7jKs9YRisy3HW88xvOqveVMMI4DrtpEbV7m7Y/s1600/bamboo-walnut-block.JPG" width="285" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Every home needs a lucky bamboo </td></tr></tbody></table>Hello squares.  Repetition in shape is a powerful design principle that can lead your eye around a space and provide interest.   And no style is more beautiful than cleaned lined mid century modern, especially when the chairs are free and you just need to recover them.  There are lots of mixed wood tones in my home too, but they never get darker than this  walnut table. I'm still embracing my golden oak - a great backdrop for plants. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiwLtIxxKTePp4YdsO9L4uJODgbtegt13XIyLqDZUIfgAfQXlsrRuZtAjALaHj_xcEQb2wEb3x87Zb6SJjNa-Vr67UFfPRwDJfmuxD8eow70fq7wD6ATes8VTI2GKWtqokpYAR_ZhwpHSp/s1600/bird-nest-window.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiwLtIxxKTePp4YdsO9L4uJODgbtegt13XIyLqDZUIfgAfQXlsrRuZtAjALaHj_xcEQb2wEb3x87Zb6SJjNa-Vr67UFfPRwDJfmuxD8eow70fq7wD6ATes8VTI2GKWtqokpYAR_ZhwpHSp/s1600/bird-nest-window.JPG" width="270" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fragile nest in a nature inspired vignette  </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">You may see a bird's nest propped on a window ledge looking very out of place in a contemporary space, but very in place with my interests.  Thanks Anita Sing for the sea urchin and print!<br /><br /> Your likes are usually repeated multiple times though out your home, many homeowners are quite surprised when I comment on this during an initial consultation. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidXilvKQz-JaChVV0T9JonlCiKLMNSG_SeGhSpoCzqXnZ5XwjeBJ53AONpfCzgMbVSDsIBRv8K3lfqlYv4_wOlCvjUpqV-VOcdPbCYLNIPwspm7kYp2-mvJfQB9qUvxBnmkU7D1Fj-BuLS/s1600/fall+buffet_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidXilvKQz-JaChVV0T9JonlCiKLMNSG_SeGhSpoCzqXnZ5XwjeBJ53AONpfCzgMbVSDsIBRv8K3lfqlYv4_wOlCvjUpqV-VOcdPbCYLNIPwspm7kYp2-mvJfQB9qUvxBnmkU7D1Fj-BuLS/s1600/fall+buffet_01.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fall leading to Halloween</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>I guess it is safe to say I celebrate  seasonal changes all year long by including nature references in various ways. Now isn't that an easy way out!<br /><br />What's you take on seasonal decorating?  Where does your style fit on the continuum?</div><br />

Thoughts on seasonal accessorizing

Do you constantly change up your accessories seasonally, or do you stick to basics collected over time and add a few seasonal  things to spi...

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Thoughts on mixing wood tones

<div class="viewGalleryDescription"><b></b></div><br /> Wood tones are often problematic when you  choose  a colour scheme or new furnishings.  Some  people  are willing to solve the problem by spending hours looking for furniture with the same wood tones. After all that work you may  end up with a boring room where everything looks the same and blends into each other.<br /><br />An easier and more exciting approach is to mix wood tones in your decor to provide a more layered, interesting room. You can mix tones with confidence it you stick to a few basic guidelines.<br /><br /><h4>Use your floor as the constant</h4><b> </b>When choosing furniture you have to consider your floors if they are wood.  They are the constant against which all other wood tones will be compared.  If your floor has more that one colour you can safely choose any of those colours for other wooden furniture or  accessories. <br /><br /><h4>Limit the number of tones </h4><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/97935/Bernal-Heights-Residence-contemporary-kitchen-san-francisco"><img alt="Bernal Heights Residence contemporary kitchen wood tones " border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/97935_0_8-2215-contemporary-kitchen.jpg" title="Thoughts on mixing wood tones" width="300" /></a><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/12908/bruce-wright" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Bruce Wright</a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><span class="ArticleText">Generally, it’s best to limit the number of wood tones  to  two or three per room. In the room above only two wood tones are used. Hints of the darker tone can be found in the floor and this creates a very harmonious look. There is also good contrast between the floor and darker cabinets.That's important.</span><br /><br /><h4><a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/jasonurrutia/urrutia-design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"><b>Choose one tone as the "star"</b></a></h4><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/82385/Cabinetry-101-contemporary-dining-room-tampa"><img alt="mixing light and dark wood tones " border="0" height="280" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/82385_0_8-6817-contemporary-dining-room.jpg" title="Thoughts on mixing wood tones" width="400" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designer/tampa" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/paul-anater/paul-anater" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Paul Anater</a></small></div><br />If you have various wood tones or are buying new furniture, choose one of the wood tones as the dominant one.  Aim for uneven proportions. The room above is a very interesting balance of lights and darks.  When the rug and chairs are included in the mix  it's the cabinet that stands out the most. The  dark floor is acting as a backdrop.<br /><br /><h4>Separate problem tones with a rug </h4><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/121614/Reservoir-Dining-Room-modern-dining-room-boston"><img alt="separating wood tones with area rug" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/121614_0_8-1889-modern-dining-room.jpg" title="Thoughts on mixing wood tones" width="308" /></a><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/14488/gleysteen-design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Gleysteen Design</a></small></div><br /> Sometimes you end up with all the same wood tones in a room and the only way to bring some variety is to separate the wood tones with an area rug so everything doesn't blend together. This also works when you have two different tones that don't work that well together. Separation breaks the comparison.  <br /><br /><br /><h4>Balance wood tones throughout a space </h4><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/206998/Urrutia-Design-contemporary-bedroom-san-francisco"><img alt="balance wood tones " border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/206998_0_8-8869-contemporary-bedroom.jpg" title="Thoughts on mixing wood tones" width="319" /></a><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/jasonurrutia/urrutia-design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Urrutia Design via Houzz</a></small></div><br /> A close viewing of this room shows  light,  medium and dark wood tones which have been connected by spreading them around the room.  The dark table connects with the upholstery piece at the foot of the bed.  The armoire, legs and  mirror are mid to darkish and the floor is light providing good flow and contrast. <br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/119471/William-Hefner-Architecture-Interiors---Landscape-modern-living-room-los-angeles"><img alt="William Hefner Architecture Interiors & Landscape balancing wood tones" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/119471_0_8-5964-modern-living-room.jpg" title="Thoughts on mixing wood tones" width="302" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/modern/living-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/15093/studio-william-hefner" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Studio William Hefner</a></small></div><br />If you choose dark tones for bookshelves banking a fireplace you need to have other dark tones around the room, preferably on the opposite side to move your eye through the room. <br /><br /><h4> Keep contrast controlled</h4><br />Deep, dark, rich wood tones such as mahogany, cherry, and walnut will often go better with medium-toned woods than lighter ones. And likewise, lighter toned woods, such as pine and oak, will also go better with medium wood tones, rather than with dark. In other words, it is okay to use varying wood tones, but aim for a lower level of contrast. The room above has medium and dark wood tones. <br /><br /><h4>Keep furniture the same tone</h4><br /><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/453141/Classic-and-Relaxed-Beach-Condo-tropical-living-room-charleston"><img alt="furniture choice wood tones" border="0" height="267" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/453141_0_8-9022-tropical-living-room.jpg" title="Thoughts on mixing wood tones" width="400" /></a><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Houzz</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />All the wood tones in this furniture are medium but they do not match perfectly.   When you keep  your major furniture pieces in the same wood tone, you can  bring in other  tones through accessories.  Wood frames, candlesticks, trays, sculpture,  or vases  are  obvious choices.</div>  <br /><h4>Consider the colour temperature of woods</h4><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghC5R4bczOrMYMHWRWhPWnA2oVaxUMKzFeYW2hMXHgy1Ku_ZVY3bAyd80wRX0btMqAMoxbxDGliEa5Jw3nkbfjs72jVxM-LIJZsJNqKOy3UOds_ywf7VbmxA386RZrtqnUNcdeOcudbNmx/s1600/03+Greatroom+ricks66.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="colour temperature of wood Desinging Home Margaret Ryall" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghC5R4bczOrMYMHWRWhPWnA2oVaxUMKzFeYW2hMXHgy1Ku_ZVY3bAyd80wRX0btMqAMoxbxDGliEa5Jw3nkbfjs72jVxM-LIJZsJNqKOy3UOds_ywf7VbmxA386RZrtqnUNcdeOcudbNmx/s400/03+Greatroom+ricks66.jpg" title="Thoughts on mixing wood tones" width="320" /></a><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"> Photography: Brian Ricks</span></div><br /><br />Every wood has a colour temperature that needs to be considered. Natural ash, birch and maple tend to be cooler while other woods like oak and pine tend to be very warm with undertones of orange or yellow as they age.<br /><br />Some stained woods  can show warm and cool tones at the same time.  This is ideal because then you can mix and match the wood tones in the space. When I'm choosing flooring for a client I look for finishes that will allow me to mix both warm and cool tones.In the room above the floor actually has more warms than the shot displays. <br /><br /><h4>Use paint /upholstery to mimic a particular wood tone</h4><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/120682/Lorraine-Vale-traditional-dining-room-charleston"><img alt="Lorraine Vale traditional dining room paint tones matching wood" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/120682_0_8-4544-traditional-dining-room.jpg" title="Thoughts on mixing wood tones" width="346" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/15889/lorraine-g-vale-allied-asid" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">LORRAINE G VALE, Allied ASID</a></small></div><br /><br />If you have one piece of furniutre that  is a different wood tone, you can use paint, window treatments or upholstery to mimic the wood tone and spread the colour around the room. The blinds and cabinet  work together.  <br /><br />Most of us have wood tones somewhere in our homes and any renovations usually bring this issue to the forefront.  I would love to hear how you have dealt with the making wood tones work in your space.

Thoughts on mixing wood tones

 Wood tones are often problematic when you  choose  a colour scheme or new furnishings.  Some  people  are willing to solve the problem by s...

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Thoughts on armless chairs

<span style="font-size: small;">Armless chairs are very popular in today's decor, but they can be a decorating challenge when it comes to table selection.  What I like about armless chairs is what actually causes the problem using them- no arms!  End tables which usually range from 24 to 26 inches or zooming up as high as 30 inches look cumbersome with them. The table between the two chairs below towers over the chair seats and you have to reach up to place anything on the table.  This table would be better suited to the side of the sofa.</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0YHhlFzpDQTqBAEgRlBEMdr48pk7SbK5SsNp_uvgtT2t3h_VGhijTPhtFeUyODWbWuqkyO6t3hidH-KzSw53LatcBNbotsm2bBrkuJY6uD5aTr1UCBgOZGzz-a24b-7TlquRmgXaTfkPQ/s1600/BHG234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0YHhlFzpDQTqBAEgRlBEMdr48pk7SbK5SsNp_uvgtT2t3h_VGhijTPhtFeUyODWbWuqkyO6t3hidH-KzSw53LatcBNbotsm2bBrkuJY6uD5aTr1UCBgOZGzz-a24b-7TlquRmgXaTfkPQ/s400/BHG234.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/small-spaces/strategies/small-living-room-furniture-arrangement/#page=5">BHG</a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;">While there are several ways to integrate armless chairs  into your decor, my best advice  is to organize them in a pair around a coffee table.  That eliminates the need to have a side table.   </span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/91992/family-room-modern-family-room-san-francisco"><img alt="family room modern family room" border="0" height="472" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/91992_0_8-3884-modern-family-room.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/11041/modern-house-architects" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">houzz</a></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">The long narrow coffee, table which I have a serious love affair with, helps to solve the problem of functionality in this room.  Wherever you sit you have a place to lay down a glass or a book. </span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/201049/Mill-Valley-contemporary-living-room-san-francisco"><br /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/44479/Forest-Manor-Model-Home-modern-living-room-dc-metro"><img alt="Forest Manor Model Home modern living room" border="0" height="375" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/44479_0_8-1361-modern-living-room.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/5104/Laura-Manning-Bendik" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Laura Manning Bendik</a></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">At first glance this room looks well decorated  The colour scheme supports the dark accents, the drapes are interesting as are the two cylinder coffee tables. When you examine it in terms of functionality it could be improved . This is the same set up  as in the previous shot but it  doesn't work as well because  you cannot reach a table if you are sitting in one of the chairs.  The problem could be solved by moving the chairs in closer to the tables and pulling out the end table to provide table space for the left chair.  For prime functionality a square coffee table would be the answer in this room. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiACijj_32aA0VMWkIT-wgaEiT9TSlF_WWa0MEM_NM4tfmnh_uIbaEcEK2GssNGnYWt-ZGXfIpiRDPpchfm6P7jEmZUhAy-yPudWW52qxoyBrFxGmFiaJl8O2YCH-EyaP3vVfvThsIkwP3Q/s1600/bhg550_100231913.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiACijj_32aA0VMWkIT-wgaEiT9TSlF_WWa0MEM_NM4tfmnh_uIbaEcEK2GssNGnYWt-ZGXfIpiRDPpchfm6P7jEmZUhAy-yPudWW52qxoyBrFxGmFiaJl8O2YCH-EyaP3vVfvThsIkwP3Q/s400/bhg550_100231913.jpg" width="400" /></a> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/rooms/living-room/makeovers/living-room-decorating-ideas/#page=13">BHG</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is a great nesting coffee table for solving design issues. Just pull out the bottom one and everyone seated will be happy.  Isn't this a beautiful, refreshing colour scheme?  I want to nestle up against the pillows with my book.  </span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/17992/ColvinDesign-modern-living-room-new-york"><img alt="ColvinDesign modern living room" border="0" height="320" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/17992_0_8-6300-modern-living-room.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/877/Colvin-Design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Colvin Design</a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Another great design that is totally functional. Let the younger folk sit on the bench; I'd head for a chair with a back! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/82881/Chocolate---Cream-Design-contemporary-bedroom-new-york"><img alt="Chocolate & Cream Design contemporary bedroom" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/82881_0_8-4555-contemporary-bedroom.jpg" width="265" /></a></span></div><div style="color: #444444;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/11117/Marie-Burgos-Design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Marie Burgos Design</a></span></div><br /><span style="font-size: small;">This chair is tucked away in a bedroom corner and works well because it serves a totally different purpose. It is not meant for lounging, but if you need a place to lay something the bureau is within reach. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/118632/Fancy-Chaise-05246-eclectic-family-room-other-metros"><img alt="Fancy Chaise 05246 eclectic family room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/118632_0_8-4142-eclectic-family-room.jpg" width="349" /></a></span></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">  <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professional/4319/usona" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">usona</a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"> If you have a chaise which is armless or you are placing a table on the armless side I recommend following the same guidelines as choosing a coffee table. Keep the table a little lower than  the height of the seat.</span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGEAfLH_oUL1l3WaK1vRh-KEjTJnC-znthPQPgPelPog3dMZsv6Vi2FvxembDxkQzfJVv5wUR_HhX54G6N5FwGfr3EVpDBiHFYQh93INGySbyaiXgMq_vGT-ySrtddwtfy7F65gtAUV-OL/s1600/BHG.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGEAfLH_oUL1l3WaK1vRh-KEjTJnC-znthPQPgPelPog3dMZsv6Vi2FvxembDxkQzfJVv5wUR_HhX54G6N5FwGfr3EVpDBiHFYQh93INGySbyaiXgMq_vGT-ySrtddwtfy7F65gtAUV-OL/s400/BHG.jpg" width="300" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/small-spaces/strategies/small-living-room-furniture-arrangement/#page=4">BHG </a></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> The proportions of this table work well . In the absence of the tulip chair a round table would soften the rectangular form of the chair. My that sure is a vibrant blue on the walls! I know an adventurous person lives there. Boring me would have chosen a soft navy.  </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">And after all that discussion I have to admit that I do not have an armless chair.  How about you?  Have you seen an arrangement of armless chair and table that you liked?  </span></div>

Thoughts on armless chairs

Armless chairs are very popular in today's decor, but they can be a decorating challenge when it comes to table selection.  What I like ...

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