What are Textiles?

Recently, I was told I did not have enough knowledge to teach a materials class. I was surprised at first, and a tad upset, but I assume the individual was going off a brief conversation while discussing the class dynamics, specifically textiles.

Here is what I do know. Textiles are the most universal and efficient method to introduce texture, and patterns to a design. This could also add color to the interior by the reflective surface and the various styles of the materials. In the design industry, today the market can offer styles of textiles ranging from contemporary, traditional, and transitional. These textiles are available in natural fibers and synthetic fibers that typically are man-made. Pricing the textiles, the function of capacity of the textiles and the aspects of the textiles technically, can dictate the selection process.

The primary consideration for the designer is the process of spinning the yarn and the construction. This is how the designer will determine the durability of the textiles used in each job. Spinningthe yarn conditions the character or profile of material. This is called the denier or thickness of the yarn thread. The texture of the yarn can be twisted, slubbed, or smooth. The constructionis the process of creating a weave that is tight, close-set or open-set cloth. These range from a sheet sample of material to a netting sample like stocking or webbing. It is also measured by the thread knots per square inch.

Construction is the interweaving of the yarn. This yarn is the warp or filler yarn that is laced to create a weave. This process creates a knit, a hooked loop, or tufting of the materials. When I worked for the rug department at my previous job, I learned that this was a process of creating carpets punched by lines of needles that inject yarn into the fabric backing, usually woven or rubberized. This can be said for textiles in a fabric capacity as well.

Another construction process used for nonwoven fabric is the process of felting where loose fibers adhere to each other under high pressure. Determining if a textile is durable or maintainable it will depend on the fibers used and how the fiber is spun and constructed. These fibers can be classified in two ways, the synthetic fiber or the natural fiber. Each style has a subdivision.

Synthetic fibers are cellulosic fibers that are an organic compounds found in vegetation like plants. These examples are acetate, rayon, or triacetate.

Non-cellulosic fibers are made from polymers or glass products. These non-cellulosic fibers are the most common products used in more than one resource than just textiles. These are nylons, acrylics, olefin, polyester and a few others. One can tell if a fiber is unnatural by the way he or she observes a glassy or twinkly sheen when looking at the surface or hand of a textile at an angle.

Natural fibers can also come from plants or animals. Natural plant fibers are hemp, flax, jute, cotton, and ramie, which is a bark from the nettle bush. Animal fibers consist of wool, hair, and silk. Other natural fibers can come from metal like gold leafing or threads, copper, and silver. These natural fibers were used over 5000 years B.C., yet because they are so durable and resilient, these natural fibers are still used in today’s manufacturing of textile fabrications.

Hemp is the most durable of natural fibers and originally this fiber was exclusively used for ropes, and burlaps. Today hemp is used in some of the finest fashions for the durability and the ability to manufacture this fiber extremely soft. A way to sample this and other textile breakthroughs are through testing the fibers whether natural or synthetic for longevity and sustainability. Testing is the only assurance that manufacturers have in a product that will last the standard five to eight year lifespan of performance. Some of the performance issues are soil resistance and flame retardant. This characteristic is achieved by chemical applications like Scotchgard and Zepel. Both products can protect textiles surfaces from liquid, soil, and flame damage to the weave.

Weaving, as mentioned before, is achieved through construction. This is the process to loom by hand or machine and create a lacing effect of fibers. The shuttle will loom yarn through raised warp yarns creating a weave in and out. There are three methods in weaving a textile the first is a plain weave (later this was called taffeta), the second is satin, and the third is twill. Twill is used to create durable garments like a tweed jacket or bag. All three basic weaves are the same variation of the plain weave. The only difference is how dense the loom weaves the yarn with different fillers creating a selvage as a return. There are five different weaves available with basic taffeta, satin, twill, pile, and leno. The most durable—historical— fiber used in modern textiles is hemp and will continue to improve with age.

Well, that is what I know and I am sticking to it.

Reader's Comments

Hey Family and Friends:

I have been writing valuable and new ideas for over a year. Now it is time for you, the reader, to make comments over the articles that have been published so far. Here is your chance to add a suggesion for me to write about or comment on your favorite topic written so far.

Just add a comment to any or all of the posts that are of interest or what you would like to read in the next year.

I am open to anything, so let me know what you would like to read about. Have a fantastic holiday season this 2012.

The Art of a Kiss

A kiss can signal more than just a feeling, but rather short circuit one’s system the moment his or her lips touch. A kiss creates communications beyond words and is the beginning of volumes in emotions. If the kiss is done properly, the man communicates his intentions, and the woman can answer the man’s tactile statement. This statement could say, “I love you” or “I need you” or “I want you.” Either way, the communication is clearly stated by the way the kiss is presented. In every lifestyle this presentation is true.

On the flipside, if a kiss is delivered badly, one seals his or her fate, especially if a new relationship is in the works. Therefore, before this goes any further, one should ask themselves, “Where do I measure?” As long as one has kissed in their lives, have they learned any skills or techniques that keep the event fresh?  At times romance is in a rut and these established skills are taken for granted. Seriously, think about it, is the person good at a kiss or could the act use some invigorating help?

 

To become a better kisser, here are some key points to consider in helping one become a superior kisser. These skills will enhance the individual’s ability to weaken the knee or create that cardio marathon. One should use the skills that work best for the situation. Some skills are not what one looks for but can use the acts in the experiment to hone the ability to please his or her partner.

 

Never underestimate the use of eye contact. The delivery is important, and just like any delivery it should never be late. If one cannot read the signals, it is better not to try until you can. One method is to move closer SLOWLY to the recipient. An invitation will not be spoken here, and one should never ask if it is alright to proceed. Do not invade one’s space, just inch closer to the target, and do not make physical contact. This will build anxiety, and look for the flicker of his or her eyes as they look toward one’s lips for confirmation. This will show the way to the intense act of a passionate caress of the lips. In other words: a kiss, a lip-lock, sucking face, a make-out session, etc.

 

A make-out session should conclude with an element of adorability. This element could include a tiny series of pecks on the cheek, the forehead or temple, and the tip of the nose. With passion in the works, it is important to stop for a breather and look into his or her eyes before moving in for another kiss—this is rapture. A rapturous kiss when not expecting it is sexy. On the flipside, when strolling in the park or at the mall, from nowhere, press up against a partner’s body, wrap an arm around them and make-out passionately. Do not care who walks by! This will create a passionate memory that will last a lifetime.

 

A passionate kiss is imperative to the success of a continued relationship. Kiss slowly and make sure to read the movements of one’s partner. If one wants to continue kissing in any liaison than one should mean it and constantly induce passion to the act. Be strong in this point, and mix these ingredients into the kiss. One should kiss long, add the slow part here, and add a splash of kissing deeply and hard. A passionately hot kiss is garnished with either a hand wrapped around one’s waist or fingers gently in his or her hair right behind one’s neck. Most people adore their hair fiddled with and the slightest pressure showing support at the neck.  Do this at once and watch the fireworks begin.

One can display fireworks in another way by stealing a kiss like a thief in the night. This technique is a winner every time. Kisses are not always delivered face-to-face; sometimes kisses need to be a surprise. When a relationship begins, one takes his or her mate on dates. Never stop taking dates, this creates ruts and contention. Try this on the next date, and become the rogue partners’ looks for. One should excuse him or herself to freshen up at a bar, a restaurant, the game, etc. When returning, steal up behind them and put a hand around his or her waist and kiss the side of the recipient’s neck just under the ear. This brazen act will send quivers down one’s spine. Add a secret to this act and whisper into his or her ear to cement the longevity of this association.

 

Last, enhance your kiss with a heartfelt embrace. One should hug his or her partner to the right side. By doing this act the couple aligns hearts which are at the closest convergence in an embrace and the couple will feel the heartbeat of his or her partner. The power of this embrace can send chills through the couple and this fire will ignite any relationship to the next level. Always conduct yourself like a lady or a gentleman while committing to a relationship. There will always be time for naughty behavior if one plays his or her cards right and this is another topic to write about in the future.

 

In the meantime, a person needs the right amount of confidence and tenderness to deliver a proper kiss. Over-confident is a huge turn-off for many, and men and women despise a potential partner who is over-confident in oneself. With eye-contact, adorability, passion, risks, and communication one can enjoy a lifetime in a relationship. If this is what one wishes, and by following these simple rules, let the kissing commence.

A Complementary Design

With so many color schemes, it is the opposite of colors that creates a bold design. This relationship of opposites appeal to the interior design professional.

Like in romance, opposites attract in design. In designing a complementary color scheme, there is one example to follow that assists the reader in remembering a complementary color scheme of opposites. The reader could reflect on seasonal holidays as a tool in complementary colors.

In remembering winter, one should think red and green; spring, purple and yellow, and for summer the only remaining primary and secondary colors of blue and orange. Colors do not have to be a primary and secondary color only to become a complementary color. A designer could use a pink and a sea foam green to give the same effect. Another method is by using any other two colors on the opposite ends of the color wheel.

Using Complementary Colors in Design

This method of using two opposite colors is not for the timid or weak. Pairing traditional or opposite colors can create an austere contrast and set a mood of energetic or rich excitement. If the homeowner is more faint-hearted, he or she may want to stay with a less dramatic approach in using colors. For this approach, another way to use bold colors is to accessorize with matching boxes or complementary furnishings. One way to keep this delicate is to use a neutral color with the complementary colors. White shelving, brown hat boxes, or black framing can accent the complement of opposite colors.

As described in many design resources, one should design in 60% light tones, 30% medium tones, and 10% dark tones. This will ensure a proper use of colors for the schemes used in design. Neutrals can assist in this process to follow percentages in the use of tones to accentuate a color scheme if the complementary colors are too intense.

Methods to Adding Complements in Color

A good design process is to use an accent wall color. By using this method, one should break up the dominant accent color with fabric that hangs from the ceiling to the floor. This will cut back on the harshness of the accent color to create a layering of tones. This is a good way to reduce the strong dominance of a color used in bedding to coordinate. Dress a bed with many shades to enhance the depth of design. If the color used on the bedding is also accented on the wall this can coordinate a good design. This method of complementing can be useful in applying color to the floor by adding a rug or flooring to make the room more complete.


A complementary color scheme can be very effective when creating a good relationship between colors and design. This scheme of saturated tone brings out the best in each color and can add depth and a strong sense of style. This deeply bold sense of design can influence the look and by adding accessories, accompanying bedding and a decorative piece of art or flooring can add an attractive complement of romance and a desirable illusion of colors.

An Analogous Point of View

In designing, use analogous colors as a palette of neighboring color combinations to blend together a friendship of harmonious unity.

Analogous colors are neutral, intense, and at times saturated. An analogous example is a room of botanicals oozing with reds, orange, and yellow. If the room is saturated with a focal point of vibrant yellow, a warm supporting group of burned orange and reds with a fringe of green enhance the botanical theme. A nice example is art like Sunflowers by the impressionist Vincent Van Gogh. With this theme of neighboring colors the room would show warmth and comfort as well as intensity of color. Analogous colors are less contrasting and energetic than other combinations such as monochromatic or complementary themes.

 

 

The Beauty of an Analogous Theme

If the homeowner prefers a cooler theme of blues and green, the theme may change but the analogy of an analogous palette stays the same. A fine example of cool analogous themes are the evening sky rich with blues, purples, and magentas accented with hints of yellow as defined in Vincent Van Gogh’s Starry Night. Another look is the sun glow of gold, russet reds, and burned orange of the Mohave Desert. An artist can look at anything of nature and define an analogous theme. An interior designer can also look at nature and define a theme of interest. As the designer looks to nature for an analogous theme, he or she develops a palette from furnishings, accessories, and paint.

An Analogous Design

As a focal point, a forest thick with pine trees has a relationship with intensely dark and light greens, blues, and purples for depth within its theme. Within a home, like Mother Nature, the designer would look into a dominant color as the focal point in design. The natural focal point should stand out from the rest of the room. For an example, a designer should use the sofa as a focal point. The sofa should be used as an anchor. An anchor in design is the darkest object to give weight to the aesthetics of design. Using a lighter color is backward and can create a completely different look to the theme. The tone to use in an analogous theme should not interrupt the design. Therefore, use a darker color for a dominant theme base.

In design an analogous theme consists of three to five neighboring colors. Some new designers learn to use half of the 12 colors on a color wheel to accentuate his or her design. This process will enable the designer to introduce more accents to the design. As a designer becomes more seasoned in the design process, he or she will follow a true analogous theme of three to five colors. When designing a space, the designer should use a formula of 60-30-10. Sixty percent of the space will have a reserved or neutral color. Thirty percent of the space will portray a medium blend of dark colors, and ten percent of the space will have a bright and saturated color as an accent in the room.

Accessorizing With Color

Designers will often use greenery to accent in fresh tones of calming shades of green. This way the room has a natural look of nature inside the home. The designer should use a screen or an accordion partition accented with colors from the room to pull all the colors together. This will wash the room with an analogous theme. Designers often use layers of fabric to accent a window to the focal point like the sofa. This process gives form and continuity to the space. Using wood tones will dramatically ground the natural effect of an analogous theme as the colors saturate the room as a force of nature.


Although an analogous color theme is easy to create, the themes can become repetitive. It is the use of values and varieties as described in this article that will intensify the arrangement and increase interest. Designers will develop an easy way to achieve interest in an analogous color theme by placing emphasis in that dominant color or focal point.

The Monochromatic Design

With many color combinations, it is color theory that makes a design stand out. This view demonstrates the monochromatic appeal to interior design.
 

The color theory of a monochromatic theme is the use of one color in multiple shades that gives off a unified look of that one color the homeowner adores. The reader should look at what colors offer the most aesthetic or pleasing look of that one color that he or she would want to live with. If a certain color does not make the reader feel good or make the homeowner sigh in relief when they see the home, then maybe that color is not the right one.

For an example, the reader may appreciate the fine hues of a turquoise blue. If the reader or homeowner walks into a room and a “calming” flows through the homeowner, then turquoise blue is the color he or she should use. By adding other shades or tints of blue, the homeowner adopts a monochromatic approach to design. To enhance this look, the homeowner should use a neutral color such as white or light gray to make the look more appealing to the senses. A good combination of denim blue, slate blue, and white can reflect a certain look that may remind the homeowner of sailing on the sea, whereas a denim blue, slate blue, and cocoa brown may reflect a more modern style of the city or a contemporary apartment.

Combining Colors in Design

 

This method of combining colors can be used with every color. For instance a room in monochromatic reds can accentuate passion, love, rosy skin, candied apples, or a fiery lipstick. A green can reflect a dense jungle, or forest with large palm trees and spiny pines; a lake-front property or the entrance into a beautiful garden also can be a reflection in a green combination like blades of grass, avocados, limes, and green apples.


With such pleasing color choices, the way to design is limitless. As a designer, he or she should try to paint a young teenager’s room with his or her interests. In one such design, for a teenage girl who loves red and adores her friends, the designer should paint the room in a strong raspberry red color and accessorize the room with many shades of reds, pinks, and plum color to reflect the teenager’s color interests. The designer should then take photos the teen has of her friends and copy them in an achromatic tone to create wallpaper of the teenager’s pictures. With this wallpaper idea, the designer should cover the teen’s focal wall behind the bed and add black lamps and white candles in crystal holders. The majority of the room will reflect a monochromatic design of reds with a splash of neutrals to accentuate the teenager’s new personal wallpaper.

Monochromatic Room Ideas

If a room seems too empty and boring and the walls are lacking in art, adding a monochromatic paint pattern such as stripes or blocks can create an artistic design. A homeowner should enhance a room with dramatic colors by adding a strong hue of color for the bedding. If the duvet, shams and back pillows have saturation in rich tones of a preferred color, this will create an intense and pleasing monochromatic look to the room. The opposite is to add a relief of color to reduce the overwhelming tone of the hue used in a room. This effect will balance the room and make a monochromatic room more appealing to the homeowner.


Using a monochromatic design will not only enhance the room but also make the room a conversational piece for the homeowner for many years. Accessories may change in the future as the homeowner’s interest may change. Later if the homeowner grows bored with the color in his or her room, 2000 plus other colors are available to choose from. Maybe he or she will want to use an analogous design for the next big design endeavor; as of the present time he or she can sit back and relax by enjoying a monochromatic room with a view.

A Client Profile for Interior Designers

Interior designers have one tool valuable to their design, and that tool is the client profile. Each designer creates a profile of his or her client who offers pertinent information that assists the designer in delivering a successful home design. Profiles are different because of the individual client, but the process or steps are the same for each profile. The information of the client is important to be accurate and complete. The best way to start a client profile is to build a template with the names, ages, and occupations of the clients. On the document, the location of the address and city, the phone numbers, and e-mail addresses should show for the ease of contacting the client.

After the designer has established a client profile, he or she should understand five key subjects that allow the design to fit within the homeowner’s needs and wants. These five key subjects are the homeowner’s lifestyle needs, decorative needs, bedroom configuration, living room setup, and dining room accommodations. Learning these key subjects is the designer’s job to find a design plan that meets the requirements of the client. For the success of this plan, the following requirements must be understood and met:

Lifestyle Preference:

The designer will discover if the homeowner would prefer a casual or formal lifestyle. For an interest, the designer will learn what the client enjoys in his or her spare time like a hobby or interest. If entertaining friends is one of their interests, the designer would need to know how many guests the space will need to accommodate. A lifestyle can be expensive, so the designer will establish a budget and how much of the home will the homeowner want to focus on in this project. Starting a project of large proportions, another home member needs to come into mind; the home’s pets. Learning the number of pets and the kind of animal is important at this venture.

Decorative needs:

In this a designer will establish color preferences and what the client like or dislikes for color choices. After learning color choices, deciding on furniture style or design is important. With so many styles like traditional, rustic, modern, or eclectic the designer will need to show photos of each to gain a bearing on the client’s wants. Showing photos is a perfect way to see what the client wants because some homeowners are unaware of style definitions. Another way to learn if there is a preference in themes is to determine if there is a selection of collectibles like nostalgic Logos, sports teams, specific artwork, preferred sculpture, or porcelain dolls. The last decorative item is to determine a fabric preference whether it is linen, cotton, chenille, leather, suede, or a naugahyde.

Bedroom Configurations:

Determining a bedroom layout makes up diverse interests for the homeowner. Here they sleep, watch television, read books, or work. When the designer learns the homeowner likes to read in bed, he or she will recommend lighting options for the homeowner. The designer introduces seating selections to accommodate whether the reading is in bed or in the comfort of a chair. Another reason for a seat is for the purpose of entertainment like television, or listening to music, or working at a writing desk. A piece of furniture can fit in the bedroom if the designer follows the rules of scale. A writing desk, a drafting station, sewing machines, or tables are specialty items that suggest mood or ambiance. The last item is storage needs and how or where this will be in effect.

Living area setup:

This point shows where family and friends would meet or how the homeowner can use the space daily. If the home entertains musically, the designer will determine space for portable instruments or the dimensions of a piano. A television is also a piece of entertainment with the option of connecting video components and electronic video games. There is a good transition from games to the function of conversations. After a time, communication takes over, and the guests will need a place to sit and talk. The designer will determine if this space is ideal for displaying art. The artwork and entertainment creates an atmosphere, and the designer will determine what types of ambiance the homeowner wants to express.

Dining room Accommodations:

The designer should determine if the homeowner likes to host or entertain guests. If the homeowner does wish to entertain regularly, the designer will ask and clarify how many dinner guests will the homeowner invite on average. The designer will ascertain if the homeowner prefers formal or informal engagements or whether they are intimate or in a group setting. Another factor would be the type of meals the homeowner serves for dinner. Types of dinner could involve sit down affairs, buffets, or casual gatherings. Last, the designer will offer options for family or business get-togethers.

The design plan will stem from the answers obtained by this client profile. The designer will offer a professional summary prepared and presented to the homeowner, This summary is an explanation of how the designer will meet the client’s needs. The summary will have essential knowledge in space planning, circulation or traffic patterns, organization or storage tactics, and future growth in the family.

A client profile allows the designer to present a sample board of the plan and the schedule on how the work will proceed. Designer’s offering a client profile summary of work completed, the presentation board should show a border around the perimeter of the presentation board, and the writing should be clear and precise. If the designer is working with an assistant or design partner, the names, and contact information should be on display attached to the reverse side of the board.

Tips in Designing a New Home

When the time comes to develop a home, always take accents and style into consideration when designing the dream. Just like starting an outline, a scope of services or a work schedule, one should know the conclusion before work begins. Media and security systems, lighting, and flooring choices to fireplace locations, and decorative wall finishes; these decisions of the complete home interior aid in establishing the general tone one should seek.

When innovative principles or concepts are thought out, the elements—which embody the abstract concept—should match the style of the exterior home as well. The home’s design should show both interior and exterior detail that corresponds with the family's personal values and interest. One process is beginning a client profile, in the form of an interview, which allows the designer to understand the client’s needs and wants for the new home.

Accents and Styles for the Home

Quality Flooring Options: Wood flooring can beautify any home when selecting a decorative floor treatment of high quality. With different wood choices and stain colors taken into consideration, bamboo or cork offers the most durable and decorative home flooring finish. Many manufacturers and flooring contractors offer more than 20 different colors in both cork and bamboo flooring accessible for the homeowner’s preference.

• Bamboo Flooring: In the case of high traffic areas, early floor wear is an enormous problem, especially if the product is substandard material. Whether the homeowner desires a beautiful look or a durable surface because of use in the home, bamboo is the material for both purposes. A bamboo floor with a coat of high quality protective urethane offers the greatest durability. Manufacturers will specify this protective coating to influence the decision and with good cause.
• Cork Flooring: For flooring that withstands prolonged use, cork is an excellent product for the duration. This practical product prepares an impressive and fashionable floor. The cork is resistant to damage, and easily maintained at the same time. Cork has many uses besides flooring, as it can decorate ceilings and walls. A wall installation can aid in sound proofing and replaces the overused panel affect that is historically popular. Cork is a universal material and is an excellent product.

Matching Wood Flooring: Believed in the past, the kitchen’s wood flooring should match the wooden cabinetry. In reality, one should not match the two products of wood stain. In design, it is ideal to have the two products complement each other because matching can be a difficult task unless stained at the same time. When a designer has the option to use other goods like linoleum or stone, the two products—flooring and cabinetry—do not match, but complement the appearance by finding products that look nice together. Designers will always make sure the wood flooring accents with wood cabinetry, but never attempt to match the two.

Visual Enhancement

Painting and wall covering: Wall finishes have the capability to detail personal interests both in beauty and durability, especially when installed by an experienced contractor. The use of different paint colors or wall paper is taken into consideration, and the wall finish dictates the tones for design. Some painting professionals present more than different color choices in paint, but offer valuable advice in proper product, placement, and quantities. Wallpaper is available in various finishes that create an attractive appearance of cloth, leather, sanded designs, hand-painted patterns, and commercial vinyl. Commercial papers are manufactured in larger sizes set approximately at 54” wide, whereas a standard size varies from 21” to 27” in width.

Lighting Styles and Meaning: One can tell much about a home by the lighting fixtures and the benefits of the lighting use. Lighting affects the mood and the comfort of the home. This effect is caused by the variance of natural lighting, combustible light, and the use of cool or warm tone lamps or bulbs.  There is a purpose for most lights in the home, and a few are task, accent, and direct light or diffused light. These choices give a soft or sharp image to any space or purpose. The sharp or direct light concentrates and draws attention to a specific item or area of the room.

The diffused light floods the space with indirect light that creates a softer look and less eyestrain if used properly. Lighting can enhance or take away from the color of a room by reducing or enlarging the appearance of the space. With this in mind, there are many lighting styles that show off diverse aspects of any room.

Fireplace Options: The use of a fireplace adds immense charm to any home, by giving it that warm and comfy feeling. With so many fireplace designs to choose from, the only limits foreseen by designers are space requirements. Factors to consider with a fireplace are how much heat is needed for the room. This would require information on capacity versus square footage. What fuel source is desired for use? The options are wood, gas, or pellet. Is the fireplace used solely for decoration or will there be food preparation? Depending on use, this will dictate style and capacity.

Specialty Areas or Needs

Kitchen Design: Functionality and style are balanced to a properly designed kitchen. The kitchen displays the homeowner’s personal design style, which creates a satisfying environment the homeowner could be comfortable with daily. The finished kitchen design is the product of a properly executed construction of the most frequently visited space in the home. The balance is important as the kitchen is a safe dwelling for family and friends. Functional attributes such as slow closing cabinetry, storage space of tracked pull-out drawers, and hidden revolving trays; accompanied by stylized woodwork and decorative colors. This well-situated kitchen can result in a kitchen the family will take pleasure in for years to come.

Elderly and Handicapped Design: For many homes, elderly design can become an issue with homeowners as disabilities become more prevalent in the elderly. The largest problem with home design is bathing and dressing. As the homeowner ages, mobility around the home, especially in the bathroom, it becomes difficult to use a conventional bathtub. Walk-in bathtubs are extremely helpful as they provide easy access because of a door and the availability of a seat. These attributes make bathing easier and more comfortable for the elderly. Other benefits of these bathtubs are safety and the relief homeowners can rely on for personal hygiene. Installing a walk-in bathtub is one of the many ideas to apply in elderly design, and others are the use of safety bars, non-skid flooring, a counter top sink, and a raised lavatory.

Deck and Patio Design: The entire property is an extension of one’s home and should be designed as such. Nothing is more peaceful than sitting on a comfortable patio chair or chaise outdoors while talking. This space can be formal or informal, depending on the needs and desires of the homeowner, and decking or informal patios are provided in decorative woods or splinter less composites. Whether the homeowner entertains guests, enjoys barbeques, or watching their children play; decisions are made by individual homeowner interests. Online resources are available to assist in designing and building one’s vision of his or her deck or patio. Like interior wood flooring, decking, and patio materials come in multiple colors and styles and can be purchased through retail stores or local designers.

Dressing Concrete: A simple method in covering lackluster concrete is covering it with a wood deck. There are other applications involving stones sealed in polyurethane or decking tiles. A composite wood tile is a quality material durable and design friendly. These wooden tiles are a speedy and low-maintenance solution and can offer a façade that gives one all the benefits of solid hardwood flooring without the hassle of building a conventional deck. Decking tiles can cover nearly any hard surface, and the homeowner has the option to use them both indoors and out. Some other problems than concrete are damaged brick, cracked ceramic tiles, distressed asphalt, rough wood decking, and compressed gravel.

When crafting a specialty home for the homeowner, developing the home plan is not that easy. Understanding what consists of the client’s needs or lifestyle assists the designer in creating the home a client wants in comfort and serenity. This understanding comes with listening to the client and shaping what he or she asks for in the finished product. As mentioned, creating a client profile, determining desires, providing quality products, and offering valuable guidance, is key to delivering a homeowner’s dream into a reality.

Patrick Tremblay

Interior Design by Yourself

RL Huntingcoat Red

If the house has not changed in some time, home design can be boring. Many wish they could have some help from a professional. One problem is the market, which makes acquiring professional help out of one’s budget. In times like this, one thinks there is nothing to be done. Nevertheless, do not give up hope, there are plenty of interior designers willing to give his or her concepts freely that one can apply on their own if the need arises. At this juncture, here are tips on doing one’s own home interior design.

Software used in Home Interior Design

Using home interior design software is a careful way to do ones interior design. This unique software allows the homeowner to decorate the home on his or her computer in a basic plan prior to executing any ideas. This is ideal if one plans to rearrange furnishings or paint colors. If the homeowner moves the furniture about it is strenuous and usually requires assistance. The homeowner does not want to waste the day pulling heavy furniture from one end of the room to the next. In its place, one could apply different scenarios on the design software. Additionally, using this software can assist in viewing paint choices as well. One does not have to purchase the expensive software to see paint colors to use in design. The homeowner could use inexpensive design software and get a basic idea of colors just the same.

Home Improvement Stores

Many people do not realize the potential a home improvement store has to offer besides lumber and tools. The homeowner may use the home improvement store to help in one’s interior design. One tip is to look for a local home improvement store’s class schedule. Many home improvement stores have workshops to assist in learning fundamental home design concepts. These workshops feature standard painting styles, color combinations, and unique carpentry, or construction concepts for the home. These workshops assist one in designing any room one wants to design.

To conclude, one should consider looking through paint selections in the store. Many paint selections are set in harmonious styles. The paint strip or fan deck of paint colors often display attractive accent colors. If the homeowner identifies colors that go well together, he or she should look for combinations of paints that accentuate the paint one is using as a main color in the home. These combinations take the guess work out of home interior design, making one think positive about his or her design choices.

The Holiday Palette

Winter Holidays are not set in the traditional colors now; you can go beyond the traditional red and green and make your home glitter with any palette.  Whatever colors you use, keep it unified with harmonious tones. You can use a color in general or try using various colors per room. Whatever palette you choose it should reflect your decorating preferences and highlight the rooms with personal touches. 


Use wintery white hues or ivory with a
brilliant combination of aqua, chartreuse, and blue. Another option would be to use a royal blue or purple with gold or silver garland, or use a rustic affair with rusts, gold, and autumn greens accompanied by crystal fruit or butterflies.  Wherever you decorate it should be dripping with metallic silver or gold, icy-blues or greens, and shimmering cascades of frosty crystals. These tones will set the stage for a dazzling holiday theme that will be everyone’s dream and envy.

There is more space than just your tree to decorate; using ornaments sporadically throughout the home in a simple way can be an unexpected surprise.  Use natural elements, such as your mirrors to reflect trinkets of beads and ribbons.  Use sprigs of frosted berry branches and add glittery ribbons and bows. Tie your lamps, table legs, and many handles with ribbons to add a spirited sparkle of glitz. Wrap potted plants and various boxes and accessories with bows to portray gifts, and safely use votive and seasonal candles to warm the room with comfort and joy. 


 

Nothing brings out the holiday spirit more than a compellation of seasonal music. The setting can reflect a spirited or muted environment, depending on the music you choose.  Set the stage for a beautiful holiday season and invite friends and family over for a cup of tea or eggnog.  In whatever manner you choose to decorate—or celebrate—Set your palette for high spirits and holiday cheer.

2012 Holiday Home Tour

This Residence is reminiscent of Spanish Colonial design with its soft aqua and antiqued red hues. Many of the homeowner’s pieces portray authentic style from carved throne chairs to elaborate iron works and vintage fabrics. With such collectables as the restored sconces and the classical interests in music, the cultural beauty inspires a plethora of long conversations and entertainment. Many of these treasured items bring peace and comfort to a hectic life of a professional. The walls are plastered in a pristine glow of off white accented in pale clay tones and intricate colorful tiles, setting off the rich hues and tapestry features; inviting one to come, relax in comfort and style. Iron and dark tone woods douse the home in Spanish Flavor.

The Grand Salon features many fine furnishings and art acquired by the homeowner’s diligent choosing. This enormous room was meant to be the heart of the home. The color palette speaks in warm tones, and draws attention to the fireplace and spectacular art hung throughout the home. Its ornament beams and pendant lights with rich culture are key to bringing an authentic character to this grandeur and size. The room is perfect for a large gathering or an intimate dinner for two. The large exhilarating rugs adorn the hand-scraped hardwood floors, and the classically inspired rooms set the mood for a special gathering of friends and family.

The gentleman’s quarters evokes memories of past musical adventures. Fun eclectic drums accented with red create a happy retreat from the world. The décor based on Spanish design, is the focal point of the room with a variety of musical lore. Any style done well is appreciated: traditional, whimsical, classical or ethnic, whichever fulfills the client’s desires. This room can reflect a personality in design, which gives the homeowner and Patrick an urban quality among Santa Clarita’s historical surroundings and culture.

The master suite is like entering a retreat that transports the homeowner away to a soothing his creative senses. Rich wood tones and an elegant ivory décor dress this room in luxurious delight, whereasthe quirky tiles and eclectic accent furniture grounds the room to comfortable surroundings. The textural play of materials gives a relaxing and tactile touch for the homeowner all day long. The master suite has a dual purpose as the office is just off the room where a large monitor can function as a computer or as a big screen television. This utility functional space adds a clean and unencumbered look.

Entering the home is like stepping into another time. On the left is the private quarters accented in simple elegance and recreational comfort. To the right, a magnificent hall that leads to a beautiful sunning area adorned with graces of hand-carved furnishings and tapestries in art. The bench is decorated with colorful pillows, and surrounded by plants and poinsettias. Further in the Grand Salon the luxurious space is lit by pendant chandeliers accented with a crown of laurel leaves and berries welcoming those entering the space. The room is fresh and styled to entice, as the visitor can drink in the room as a welcoming beacon to draw, charm, and graciously unfold the rest of the home.

Design in Today's Market

RL Cabin Master Bedroom

In design, mixing styles can be fun and cost effective. No longer just Eclectic, it applies to the design in blending various styles from origin to era.

A mixed style should present pieces with shared aims to generate unity within the design. Eclecticism is definitely not a jumble or mish mashed collection of arbitrary pieces but an intended and considered design. When a shared component or idea ties the home together, the home can take on a character of personal preference and unique style.

When furnishings communicate to each other in scale, shape, pattern, texture, color, or finish, a mixed style of interior design can enhance the room and bring it together. Contrast is an important element for a mixed style. As a general rule, a color scheme can be universal by using neutral colors as a backdrop or for large furnishings. Furniture no longer has to match perfectly but a mixture of related furnishings can embellish a design nicely.

In various design schemes such as rustic living, Asian traditional or Country French, mixing furnishings will complement the appeal to the homeowner. The homeowner looks for appealing design styles. One of the most beneficial resources is consignment or vintage shops. The consignment shop holds treasures of quality or name brand merchandise at a discounted price. These furnishings are unique in design as it gives new life to many styles and themes many people look for in decorating. Obtaining quality at a lower price is a valued perk for the do-it-yourselfer or the professional designer.

Rustic living is a relaxed, lived-in style and there is no reason to fear sitting in a rustic living room or stopping by for a chat in a rustic style environment. A rustic design style is informal with a complement of well made, sensible furniture, colorful material, and functional rather than trendy accents. With rustic styles, adding multiple textiles and countrified furnishings can be obtained by visiting these treasure troves of recycled design and style.

If the homeowner is looking for something more traditional, he or she could find Asian inspired furnishings that display bold colors along with ornate furniture and accessories. Asian furnishings are ornately carved designs with craftsman painted details or lacquered finishes. When looking through consignments ask the salesperson for assistance. The shop may have everything the homeowner is looking for; they just need to look around as everything is transitional in the store. Another nice benefit is the shop owner displays mixed styles within the shop to aid in complementing the various pieces on display.

Some various pieces can enhance this dramatic style by featuring animal prints and astrological signs, such as tigers and fire-breathing dragons. Creative ginger jars, large vessels, and beverage pots painted with exaggerated design in varied colors or in the traditional blue and white glazes are also fashionable in Asian interiors. The most prominent color in Asian style is red because it represents good luck. The most traditional items are wall murals and shoji tri-fold screens depicting characters of historical and legendary folklore. These are often painted in striking or vibrant colors. The majority of these items are sporadically on display throughout the shop.

Country French is an epitome by a palette of bright colors. This south of France design is reminiscent of colors that include deep aubergine (dark purple) and vibrant lavenders. Other provocative colors used for porcelain are bright cadmium yellow, and cerulean blue. Furnishings usually with a small floral or animal pattern are typical fabric motifs for Country French design.

Not unlike rustic styles, basic Country French furniture is pine or maple in structure with a sturdy functionality. An ample plank-style dining table is traditional Country French furniture. Caned chairs, not to be confused with wicker, usually accompany this elegant piece.

Other telling furniture pieces are armoires or four-poster beds with massive carvings and embellishments. Lavender wreaths with wheat shafts and wrought-iron gates surrounded by roosters, lamps, and sprigs are perfect accents and accessories for this style.

With today's market, budgets are reduced by half. Knowing that the homeowner has the option to find high-end or brand materials at a discounted price is a plus when he or she looks for that perfect piece or style furnishings. By frequenting a consignment or vintage shop the homeowner or designer will always find that special treasure that will complete a design. When finding just the right piece one can usually expect to find just that—one item—so it is important to understand the art of mixing styles. Mixing styles can aid in making sure the means of the budget are met while bringing fun and excitement to the adventurous homeowner.