Whether you work at home occasionally or full time, you need a space where you can operate efficiently. After all, people have various distractions at home, so dedicating a space to work will help them push those distractions away. Try these expert tips for creating the ultimate home office space if you want to look forward to working in it each day.
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The bedroom is a space for relaxation, and furniture plays a big role in achieving that sense of relief. Understandably, not everyone is an expert in bedroom furniture, so novice mistakes can happen when shopping. Luckily, the details below will provide insight into what helps homeowners build a bedroom they’re proud to own. Let’s identify what to look for when choosing the right bedroom furniture.
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Furniture shopping is an excellent opportunity to personalize your home in big ways, even if you’re only updating one room. For instance, a new dining table can have a surprising effect on your space if you consider the right factors. Read this guide to learn the key things to consider when choosing a solid wood dining table for your home.
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Many homes are welcoming and wonderful. However, in some cases, a few rooms may not be as eye-catching or comfortable as the rest. How do you improve a dining room’s design, for instance, to make the area worth gathering in? Read below to find five excellent ways to create an inviting dining room space.
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If you want to upgrade your living room, you have many avenues to go down. So in which direction do you want to go for your transformation? Read these great ways to upgrade your living room area to find the perfect approach for your home.
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One of the most crucial steps to take when moving into your first home is furnishing it. However, there are many furniture options, so finding all the perfect items can sound intimidating to new homeowners. Similarly, it’s easy to make novice mistakes when choosing furniture, but those mistakes are avoidable. If you’re unsure how to approach this project, read the tips below to learn the ropes. Our must-know tips for furnishing your first home will help you delve into this subject with less stress and more clarity.
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For many, 2020 will go down in history as the year of masks, working from home, and social distancing. However, the interior design community will remember it as the year that gave birth to cottagecore. Cottagecore is an interior design trend that embraces the simple, cozy, authentic home. It is a new iteration of ‘country style’ that celebrates the old and the new. Think handmade quilts and reclaimed wood layered with industrial light fixtures and bold wallpaper. To call it an interior design trend is ironic, as it is all about renouncing the “latest thing” and creating a home that honors the individual. Nevertheless, cottagecore is in; hello rustic reverie. If you are looking to incorporate the cottagecore aesthetic into your home, here is where to start.
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Choosing the perfect sofa for your home can be a daunting task. You may be asking yourself, should I go with trendy or timeless? Do I need a sectional or a sofa? Where can I find quality furniture that will last? If you have just moved into a new Houston home, you may be itching to get this process over with quickly. However, taking time to consider this important purchase will pay off. With hundreds of Sunday naps, movie nights, and family gatherings ahead, you will want to take these things into consideration when buying a sofa.
Continue reading Sofa Shopping Guide: Coziest Click of the Day
Japandi style is the must-have interior trend that is a hybrid of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics. The look is minimal, functional, warm, and calming, with touches of wabi-sabi enthused imperfection. We’ve compiled some tips to help you work Japandi style into your home. But first, why are the two styles, such happy roommates?
You may not think that Japan and Scandinavia have a lot in common, but when it comes to design elements, they’re more similar than you may think. Each one’s aesthetics focuses on simplicity, natural elements, and comfort, so it’s no surprise that we’re seeing more and more designers combine the two looks together and calling it “Japandi” (aka Japanese and Scandi). Though a relatively new trend, expect to see Japandi pop up on your Instagram feeds this year.
Japandi styles feature beautiful craftsmanship with a focus on quality and handmade pieces over throwaway, cheap structures.
The natural warmth of wood is revered in both Japanese and Danish designs. Work it into your home with key furniture, ideally keeping surface treatments to a minimum. Wood-paneled walls make for great features. Then introduce natural accents with statement houseplants, preferably in terracotta pots.
NATURAL COLORS
Here is where the Japandi camp divides. Those tipping toward the Scandi expression will likely opt for a white or neutral-based palette with rich accents. Others will choose large swathes of rich color on walls and other elements. In both cases, work with natural tones like blues, greens, plums, and browns. Black is also a favorite in Japandi style rooms.
ACCESSORIZE WITH CARE
The philosophies behind both nations’ design languages call for accessories that prioritize functionality over decoration. Think unglazed ceramic tableware, vases, and a few books. Lastly, combine Scandi’s homey comforts with Japanese imperfection through contrasting cushions and throws.
If you’re a fan of minimalism and “Hygge,” chances are that you have already started to experiment with the Japandi style. To really play with this look, focus on natural materials such as unfinished woods or bamboo pieces that bring in the feeling of nature and simplistic beauty. We also recommend using muted colors with hints of pale green or bringing plants and greenery into your home to give it a sense of outdoor living.
Reducing clutter is also key to achieving the Japandi style. This design aesthetic focuses on clean lines and open spaces. But if you have an active household and struggle to find that minimalist look, we recommend trying “faux minimalism” with natural containers such as boxes and baskets, built-ins, or folding screens to hide excess items and keep your space feeling clutter-free.
To get the best of both worlds, draw on the coziness of Scandi design with warm textures and soft pieces while maintaining the elegance of Japanese decor. While both styles have a focus on the utilitarian, it’s important to maintain a zen-like sense of calm in your space.
Because Japandi design is focused on craftsmanship, it’s not meant to be disposable. Look for pieces that will stand the test of time and work with your decor for years to come. It’s a clear antidote to the one-time-use culture we have embraced for so long. Instead, focus on pieces that are sustainable and safe for our planet.
Though both Japanese and Scandi decor aren’t new, the combination of the two is sure to be a rising trend in the future.
It’s been a whole year so you’ve likely gotten very familiar with the interior of your home. It’s a good idea to fill it with positivity. Enter feng shui, the ancient Chinese practice that charts the balance of energy, or chi, via scientific calculations. The goal of feng shui is to invite positive chi into your home so that your life feels both energized and balanced, and it’s a relatively simple way to improve the vibes of your space.
While The Home Source Team is no expert, and the calculations really depend on your exact space, there are general guidelines. We’re here to inspire some good energy for making your at-home time as pleasant as possible.
The five important elements of feng shui are wood, metal, earth, water, and fire.
Wood
Symbolizes growth and vitality. Placing wood items in your space encourages personal growth. Plants and wooden furniture are easy ways to add this element.
Metal
Symbolizes logic and intelligence. It supports knowledge and mental sharpness. Add this element to your space with metal frames or sculptures.
Earth
Symbolizes stability and balance. It helps to ground and stabilize. Bring the earth element inside with rocks, crystals, and landscape imagery.
Water
Symbolizes wisdom and serenity. It helps with clarity and relaxation. Mirrors, reflective surfaces, and aquariums are ways to add the water element to your space.
Fire
Symbolizes passion and energy. It’s representative of transformation, expansion, and volatility. Use candles and red objects to enhance your space with fire.
The Bagua or energy map of your home will serve as a blueprint, or a clear map as to what colors are used in specific rooms, what images are best in your home, how to position the furniture for best energy flow, etc. Knowing the Bagua is crucial to successful feng shui decorating, so be sure not to ignore this step.
1. Make a good impression with your front door.
In order to attract energy into your home, you need a welcoming front door.
2. Clear the clutter.
Too much mess prevents the energy from flowing and also clutters your brain. A clean space gives you room to breathe and to clear your head.
3. Make use of crystals.
Use rose quartz for love, tourmaline for protection, or citrine for healing and wealth.
4. Make sure air and light can get in.
Since air is a key component to the very meaning of feng shui, it must be allowed in. A combination of natural light and air will bring in good energy and rejuvenation.
5. Place the bed and desk towards the doorways.
Facing the entrance increases power and minimizes vulnerability.
6. Add a natural element.
Decorate each room with a houseplant. Not only do they improve energy, but they also increase health and naturally purify the air.
If you prefer to apply feng shui principles to a room rather than a whole house, here are some things to keep in mind.
When designing your living room, begin with the largest piece of furniture you have (typically, a sofa). Make sure it faces a door or opening and is placed against a wall, ideally the one furthest from the entrance, and allow for a few inches of breathing room between.
If you have additional seating like a lounge chair, choose where to put it based on what is conducive for conversation. Try not to cramp the space. The goal is to create energy flow.
When deciding on a coffee table, try to avoid harsh angles. If a circle or oval feels too contrasting to the rest of your furniture, just contrast the shapes in the smaller elements as this creates better balance.
Use sheer window coverings to allow light in but prevent energy from escaping. If you prefer completely uncovered windows, try placing a plant nearby.
Adding red elements will help invigorate the room and help to energize.
Similar to the living room, start with your bed and place it far away from the doorway, but not directly facing it. Try to avoid having too many electrical components close to your sleeping space.
If possible, avoid putting a television in your private space. This often becomes the focal point of the room, which takes away from the calming energy.
Combine masculine and feminine details to make sure both parties are represented and a balance is established. If you have a metal or wooden bed frame, choose soft-colored linens.
Fill your bedroom with cozy material to invite restful, calming energy. Using hues in green and blue can add to this type of feeling. Clearing out whatever is under your bed also helps energy flow.
The biggest tip for home office decor is removing the clutter. As much as 50 percent of your desk should be clear, which means it’s time to hide those cords!
Similar to the layout in the other rooms, position your desk facing the door because this gives you a position of power, which is important for your place of work or productivity.
Decorate this space with a few personal objects like a family photo and incorporate greenery as the energy from plants will help you stay focused. To invigorate the area, add red details.
In terms of color, use gentle yellows and greens to calm and center. Add earth tones for stability and flowers or a motto to remind you of what you need to accomplish.
Okay everyone. Here is the part 2 that you all have been waiting for.
RECAP AND PART 1:
Your zodiac sign can reveal a lot about your personality, with each astrological sign having its own individual strengths, traits, and desires. Are you an energetic Gemini who constantly likes to switch up their interior design style, or a trend-conscious Aries who is always one step ahead of the design game? Or maybe you’re a globe-trotting Sagittarius who loves displaying treasures from around the world.
By using your star sign to help make interior design decisions, you can create a warm and welcoming space that truly reflects your inner character. From your must-haves to your must-avoids in terms of color, style, and accessories, we’ve covered all you need to know about injecting a little personal style based on your star sign, into your home.
September 23 – October 22
Element: Air
Ruling body: Venus
First, Libras prefer to stay away from flamboyant style, opting for minimalistic interiors instead.
Although they love luxurious details and fabrics, a Libra desires a home that’s balanced between elegance and tranquility. A Libra doesn’t want their space to be too over the top.
Your interior design style is likely to be French Luxury/Rococo. Libras must avoid garish prints and modern designs. A Libra constructs a peaceful home which they fill with elegant mirrors, scattered cushions, and romantic paintings and prints. The color palette is made up of Champagne pink, lilac, and light grey. Any room decorated by this zodiac sign is sure to be a lavishly pretty boudoir that portrays absolute serenity and warmth.
October 23 – November 21
Element: Water
Ruling body: Pluto
Scorpios love to stand out and make a statement. They are passionate, seductive, and not afraid to speak their mind. Most of the respondents under this sign have chosen the Industrial style as their favorite. If you want to achieve this style you will need to invest in metal elements and furniture, be bold with black, and if you can, add elements of exposed brickwork into your home.
Secondly, Scorpio-born is passionate, determined, and decisive and once they know what they want, will not stop until they have reached their goal. Scorpio’s have no interest in fad trends or artificial decor; they want the real deal and for their home to reflect their honesty and self-awareness. As a result, those with this zodiac sign express their character by the details in their possessions and, intrigued by its history, are often drawn to mid-century gothic or industrial architecture.
Your interior design style is likely to be Industrial/Gothic. Dark colors such as emerald green and plum purple, and mixed textures including fur, silk, and wood are much-loved, while a jungle of house plants are frequently found in Scorpio homes. This sign needs to be submerged in nature – artificial plants or imitation furnishings are simply not good enough.
November 22 – December 21
Element: Fire
Ruling body: Jupiter
Sagittarius is the philosophical defender of the galaxy, who armed with a bow and arrow, is a keen traveler, curious about the wider world and what it has to offer. Therefore, this sign’s greatest treasure is their freedom.
Your interior design style is likely to be Coastal. Sagittarius loves to travel, so it’s unsurprising that their go-to interior style is coastal themed. Whether you live close to the sea or not, simply tap into soft hues of blue, grey, green, and white, a color combination that is never far from a beach scene.
Those with Sagittarius as their star sign wear their heart on their sleeve and their home is a reflection of their wild character and obsession with our planet.
December 22 – January 19
Element: Earth
Ruling body: Saturn
A sign that represents time and responsibility, and is very serious by nature, Capricorn is often seen as the father of the zodiac. Capricorn-born individuals do still lust after elegant details to admire. This hard-working sign values great craftsmanship and hand-worked touches. They honor those who took time and patience beautifully building the furniture they’ve purchased. A Capricorn’s appreciation of quality that stands the test of time makes their home a sanctuary that’s classic and heartwarming.
Your design interior style is likely to be Traditional. With a timeless sense of style, Capricorns are big on traditional, comfortable home décor. Those with a Capricorn sign are attracted to furniture that has a stately feel – think large armoires, leather sofas, or cabinets full of crystal or fine china. Their style is not trend-driven; they know what they like and it needs to be practical, economical and reliable.
January 20 – February 18
Element: Air
Ruling body: Uranus
Although they can easily adapt to the energy that surrounds them, Aquarius-born has a deep need to be alone and away from others in order to restore their power. This means it’s essential that their home is a haven of harmony and tranquility.
Thanks to the ruling planet Uranus, Aquarius-born have a visionary quality. Capable of perceiving the future and knowing exactly what they want, these interior designers are sure to choose something that will awaken and inspire them. As the water–bearer sign, the Aquarius sign loves vibrant hues and colors of the ocean, like blue, green, violet, and indigo. Their homes incorporate all elements of life too; often filled with vases and soothing Zen fountains. As an air sign, roomy space with lots of ventilation is a dream of by an Aquarius too.
Your interior design style is likely to be Avant-Garde. This sign’s design style is avant-garde and unconventional, yet also ensures the latest gadgets look right at home. Hand-painted details, DIY fixtures, and ridiculous patterns are at the core of an Aquarius’s home. Aquarius’s have a great eye for exciting artwork that provokes conversation. Sometimes even their own art work makes the walls.
Your zodiac sign can reveal a lot about your personality, with each astrological sign having its own individual strengths, traits, and desires. Are you an energetic Gemini who constantly likes to switch up their interior design style, or a trend-conscious Aries who is always one step ahead of the design game? Or maybe you’re a globe-trotting Sagittarius who loves displaying treasures from around the world.
By using your star sign to help make interior design decisions, you can create a warm and welcoming space that truly reflects your inner character. From your must-haves to your must-avoids in terms of color, style, and accessories, we’ve covered all you need to know about injecting a little personal style based on your star sign, into your home.
March 21 – April 19
Element: Fire
Ruling body: Mars
An Aries is full of energy and people are drawn to your fun, warm personality. Aries people aren’t afraid to try something new. You love to be out and about, so you prefer your home to be low maintenance.
Your interior design style is likely to be contemporary. Think hues of beige, white and black, combined with various modern textures.
The life of an Aries is constantly filled with social engagements, however those with this star sign are also lovers of their own space. To create a haven perfect for Aries, think open spaces, large sofas and beds and private areas to which they can retreat.
April 20 – May 20
Element: Earth
Ruling body: Venus
Relaxing in style is what this sign does best, and as a sensual and tactile individual, touch is the most important of all their senses. Silks, velvets and cozy cashmere showcase the Taurus’ fine taste but also provide the comfort that is at the heart of all interior decisions this decadent personality makes.
Your interior design style is likely to be Traditional Luxe. Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty. Comfort, security, and a warm, peaceful environment are important to you. The best food and décor await behind the doors of a Taurus space.
May 21 – June 20
Element: Air
Ruling body: Mercury
You’re easy-breezy, a great communicator, and always on the hunt for new things. Gemini is also ruled by twins, meaning you have two very opposite sides to you, making you seem eclectic. You’re the one sign that can love traditional and modern at the same time while falling in love in an instant with the next design trend.
A Gemini’s changeable and open mind makes them creative and keen to communicate, and born with a wish to experience everything there is out there, a Gemini likes to submerge themselves and their home in memories and keepsakes. Every room in their home is different too; they have no distinct interior style but instead a collection of everything they love in one place.
Your interior design style is likely to be Eclectic. Gemini needs to be careful not to collect too much. Keeping a space clear will allow this indecisive sign to change up their home to their next desired style – which even they can’t keep up with.
June 21 – July 22
Element: Water
Ruling body: Moon
Cancers are the ultimate homebody. Your home is very important to you and it’s always cozy, comfortable, and unpretentious. People gravitate to you because of your soothing, nurturing personality.
Like crabs, who rely on their hard exterior for protection, the home of a Cancer is their safe sanctuary. Sensitive and caring deeply about matters of the family and their home, this star sign is drawn towards quaint and cozy interior styles made up of one-of-a-kind, mis-match finds.
Your interior design style is likely to be Traditional. Cancers have a great eye for spotting rare and well-desired reworked designs and antiques. When you step foot inside a Cancerian home, don’t be surprised to see photos of all of their loved ones too.
July 23 – August 22
Element: Fire
Ruling body: Sun
The king (or queen) of the jungle, Leo is the life and soul of every party. Needing space to show off their indulgence in the finer things, a Leo designs their home as regal and as loud as themselves.
Expensive textiles and deep colors, and of course gold highlights wherever possible showcase this sign’s flashy but classy taste. There is nothing minimal or simplistic about a Leo’s life or their interiors. These natural born leaders can find it extremely difficult to resist the things they want, which, in the home, can include oversized cushions made using the most lavish fabrics and large sofas or beds in rich, statement colors
Your interior design style is likely to be Maximalist. You’re regal and you know it. You were born to shine and be the star of the zodiac. In fact, many Leos have wild hair or some attribute that sets them apart from the crowd. Your home is a reflection of you – unique, lavish, and eye-catching.
August 23 – September 22
Element: Earth
Ruling body: Mercury
The efficient and practical Virgo needs their house to reflect their desire for organization and simplicity. Keeping their color palette neutral, earthy tones are loved by this sign as they allow them to feel calm and relaxed. However, for those willing to add a slight touch of color, peach, light blue, or olive green are common choices.
A Virgo’s design style is one of the minimalism qualities, avoiding mismatched or thrifted furniture which, to them, represent mess. Wooden or tiled flooring throughout also means their home can always be cleaned quickly, avoiding the antagonizing idea of a cream carpet turning mocha.
Your interior design style is likely to be Modern. You have an eye that notices every tiny detail. You need order, organization and cleanliness or you’ll go crazy. Because Virgos belong to the earth element, you prefer natural materials. People appreciate your helpful, practical personality and your need for harmony at home.
Stay tuned for part 2!
