Create An Impressive Accent Wall for Your living room

In interior design, an accent wall is one of the places to show your creativity and personality. Sometimes, they are focal points that add depth, character, and visual interest to any space. Among the various options, an accent wall in the living room is a smart choice. It helps transform the heart of your home to impress your guests when they visit your home. In this article, we’ll explore design ideas, color schemes, materials, techniques, maintenance, personalization, and inspiration to help you create a stunning accent wall that makes your living room more stunning and attractive.

Understanding the Essence of Accent Walls

Accent walls are more than just a splash of color; they’re a powerful design element that provides a strong impression for your living room. By reasonably emphasizing one wall, you will create a focal point that draws the eye and anchors the space. Whether you choose a bold hue, textured finish, or eye-catching pattern, accent walls offer the possibility for expression and creativity.

Choosing the Perfect Wall for Your Accent

Selecting the right wall for your accent is the key to achieving balance and harmony in your living room. You should consider factors such as the room’s layout, natural light sources, and architectural features. People usually set up the accent wall behind the sofa or fireplace, but don’t be afraid to think outside the box and explore options that reflect your unique style and personality.

Exploring Color Schemes and Palettes

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Color is the soul of any accent wall, it will set the tone and mood of your living room. Whether you prefer dark colors that make a bold statement or light colors that evoke tranquility,  choosing an outstanding color with the rest of your living room is essential. There are some common options such as timeless classics like navy blue or emerald green for a touch of sophistication, or modern neutrals like blush pink or sage green for a contemporary twist. You also need to consider the overall aesthetic of your living room and how the accent wall will combine with existing decor elements.

Texture and Materials

Image credit: Andorwillow

Texture adds depth and dimension to accent walls, transforming them from mere backdrops into attractive focal points. There are a variety of materials, from traditional options like paint and wallpaper to more unconventional choices like reclaimed wood, brick veneer, or textured panels to help you build your accent walls. Each material brings its unique charm and character, allowing you to create a custom look that reflects your style and preferences.

Techniques for Accent Wall Design

Creating the perfect accent wall requires careful planning and execution. You should spend your time studying different techniques such as color blocking, geometric patterns, ombre effects, or mural painting to bring your vision to life. Besides, It is important to consider the scale and proportion of your living room, as well as the desired visual impact. When you select the right technique for your accent wall, don’t be afraid to enlist the help of professional painters or decorators to ensure precision and quality craftsmanship.

Maintenance and Care for Your Accent Wall

When your accent wall is complete, it’s essential to maintain its beauty and integrity over time. Depending on the materials used, maintenance requirements may be complicated or not. For painted walls, you implement regular cleaning with a mild detergent and water solution can help remove dust and dirt and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish. For textured walls, such as those made from reclaimed wood or brick veneer, a solution of periodic dusting or vacuuming with a soft brush attachment can help keep them looking their best. Additionally, be aware of any signs of wear or damage and address them as soon as possible before they become worse.

Level up Your Accent Wall with Decor and Accessories

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You can improve the impact of your accent wall by considering decor elements and accessories. You should select artwork, mirrors, or decorative shelves that emphasize the wall’s focal point without overwhelming it. Or, lighting fixtures also help you create an impressive effect or highlight specific features of the accent wall. You need to consider textiles such as throw pillows, rugs, or curtains in coordinating colors to tie the room together and create a cohesive look. By setting up decor and accessories reasonably, you can elevate the visual appeal of your accent wall and fill your living room with warmth and personality.

Personalizing Your Accent Wall with DIY Projects

For those who love to get hands-on and show off their creativity, DIY projects offer endless opportunities for personalizing your accent wall and reflecting your unique style. If you are not a professional in drawing, you can try stenciling a geometric pattern or mural directly onto the wall surface. Before building your accent wall, you can spend your time learning some simple techniques like sponge painting or faux finishes, to add depth and texture to your accent wall. Let’s free your creativity with materials such as fabric, wallpaper scraps, or even recycled materials to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that shows your personality and interests. With DIY projects, the only limit is your imagination, so if you have a colorful mind, let it transform your accent wall into a true expression of your personality and character.

Finding Inspiration for Your Accent Wall

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, you can refer to design magazines, home decor websites, or social media platforms that can help spark your creativity. A mood board or Pinterest board will help you collect images, color schemes, and design ideas for the accent wall. Remember to take note of elements that appeal to you, such as textures, patterns, or color combinations, and use them as a starting point for forming your accent wall idea. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and experiment with uncommon ideas – after all, your accent wall is a reflection of your style and taste.

Conclusion

In conclusion, accent walls offer an effective and impactful way to transform your living room into a space that is yours. By understanding the essence of accent walls and exploring design ideas, color schemes, materials, techniques, maintenance, and personalization, you can create a masterpiece that elevates the ambiance of your home by yourself. Whether you choose bold hues, textured finishes, or eye-catching patterns, the key is to free your creativity and let your personality be exposed. With careful planning and execution, your accent wall can become the focal point of your living room, leaving a stunning impression on all who enter.

Choosing the Perfect Bed for Your Restful Sleep

A good night’s sleep is essential for your health, and the foundation of a restful sleep lies in choosing the right bed. With a variety  of options available, finding the perfect bed that aligns with your preferences and sleep needs can be a difficult task. In this article, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when selecting a bed for a restful sleep, ensuring you wake up feeling refreshed and comfortable.

Read more: Best Bedroom Colors for Sleep! How to Have A Restful Sleep?

Understanding Your Sleep Needs

Before diving into the specifics of bed types and features, it’s important to understand your sleep needs. Consider factors such as your preferred sleeping position, any health condition, and whether you share the bed with a partner. It will help you make the decision of choosing a bed easily.

Mattress Matters

The mattress is the heart of your bed, and selecting the right one is the key for a restful sleep. Here are different mattress types for various sleep preferences:

  • Memory Foam Mattresses: They will be perfect for those who seek body-contouring support and ideal for minimizing motion transfer. Therefore, this is a good choice for couples.
  • Innerspring Mattresses: They provide a bouncy feel with excellent support and will be good for those who prefer a more traditional mattress experience.
  • Latex Mattresses: They offer a combination of support and bounce. Natural latex is also hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites.
  • Hybrid Mattresses: They will combine the benefits of memory foam, latex, and innerspring mattresses. This combination will create a balance among strong points of each mattress material.

Consider Your Sleeping Position

Based on the pose you sleep, the way you select your mattress and bed will provide optimal comfort and support. At first, we will come with side sleepers, they will want the benefits from a softer mattress that contours to the body’s natural curves. Moreover, in this case, a pillow-top mattress for added cushioning is the perfect choice for them. Secondly, back sleepers need a mattress with a balance of support and comfort which we usually see on medium-firm mattresses. Finally, stomach sleepers will require a firmer mattress to prevent sinking at the midsection, so a mattress with targeted support for the hips and abdomen is recommended for them.

Bed Size and Space

The size of your bed is not just for personal comfort; it also affects the quality of your sleep. Choose a bed size that suit your space and sleep preferences:

Image credit: Archdaily
  • Twin and Twin XL: Suitable for single sleepers, teenagers, or those with limited space.
  • Full/Double: Offers more width for single sleepers who prefer extra space.
  • Queen: A popular choice for couples or individuals who desire more space.
  • King and California King: Ideal for couples who want maximum space and comfort.

Bed Frame and Support

Image credit: Simons

The bed frame and support system contribute significantly to the durability and comfort of your bed. You can refer some bed frames below:

  • Platform Beds: This type of frame will provide a solid base and eliminate the need for a box spring. It also helps your bed look more sleek and modern in design.
  • Traditional Bed Frames: they will contain both mattress and box spring and offer a classic and timeless look.
  • Adjustable Beds: They allow for customizable positions, which is ideal for those with specific health concerns. Moreover, it  enhances comfort during activities like reading or watching TV in bed.

Bedding and Accessories

Let’s complete your sleep haven by choosing the right bedding and accessories:

  • Pillows: You should select pillows that align with your sleeping position. Memory foam, latex, or down alternatives will support you in various sleeping poses
  • Mattress Toppers: Let’s enhance comfort by adding an extra layer of cushioning. You can choose materials like memory foam or cooling gel for temperature regulation.
  • Quality Bedding: If you have insomnia, you should feel free to invest in high-quality sheets, blankets, and duvets for a deeper sleep. Options for breathable fabrics to regulate temperature are also highly considered.

Conclusion

Choosing the right bed for a restful sleep involves a thoughtful consideration of your personal preferences, sleep needs, and the characteristics of various bed components. Whether you prefer the contouring support of memory foam, the classic feel of an innerspring mattress, or the convenience of an adjustable bed, prioritizing your comfort is key. By investing time and effort into selecting the perfect bed, you’re not just enhancing your sleep quality; you’re investing in your health. Sweet dreams will come when you find the bed that’s tailored to you.

How to choose a sofa for your living room

The living room is often considered the soul of the home where families gather, friends unwind, and memories are created. One of the key elements that define the comfort and aesthetics of your living room is the sofa. However, with a lot of options available, choosing the right sofa can be a tough task for you. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the factors to select the perfect sofa for enhancing your living space.

The reasonable size for your sofa

Before mentioning style and design, it’s crucial to consider the size of the sofa. You need to measure your living room carefully, taking into account other furniture and the available space. A sofa that is too large can make the room feel cramped, while one that is too small may lack impact. Therefore, you have to choose the right size to create the right balance for a harmonious look.

Sofa Style and Design

The style of your sofa will set the tone for the entire room. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or a classic, traditional feel. You should choose a style that complements your overall interior design. Factors such as the sofa’s shape, arm style, and leg design need to be considered. Sleek and straight lines often evoke a modern feeling while rolled arms and turned legs can add a touch of traditional elegance.

Comfort is Key

Aesthetics are important, but please do not forget comfort feelings. After all, the purpose of a sofa is to provide a cozy haven for relaxation. Therefore, you need to test the sofa before making a decision by sitting on it, lying down, and assessing the level of comfort. Let’s consider factors such as seat depth, cushion firmness, and the overall feel of the sofa covers.

Read more: How do the interiors impact your mood?

Fabric Selection

Image credit: Pexels/Max Vakhtbovycn

The choice of fabric plays a significant role in the sofa’s durability and appearance. It relates to your lifestyle and the level of maintenance you are willing to undertake. Luxurious fabrics like velvet may add lavishness but require more care, while microfiber and leather are known for their durability and easy cleaning. Finally, colors and patterns have to be in harmony with your living room’s color scheme.

Sofa Frame Quality

The durability of your sofa depends on the quality of its frame. I recommend hardwood frames such as oak or beech, which are sturdy and durable. Meanwhile, sofas with frames made from softwoods like pine, as they may not withstand the test of time, so you have to avoid them. You can also consider a robust frame to ensure the sofa maintains its shape and structure over the years.

Cushion Fillings

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The type of filling in your sofa cushions impacts both comfort and maintenance. There are two common cushion fillings including Foam-filled and down-filled cushion. Foam-filled cushions offer a firmer feel, while down-filled cushions provide a softer, more luxurious experience. I suggest a combination of both for the perfect balance. Additionally, removable and reversible cushions will make cleaning and maintenance easier.

Sofa Functionality

Before making the decision of buying a sofa, you have to determine the functionality of your sofa. If you often host guests or have a large family, a sectional sofa or a sofa bed might be a good choice. Some sofas also come with built-in storage, providing a solution for space-conscious living rooms.

Budget Considerations

You should create a budget for your sofa-shopping journey. Sometimes, it’s exciting to spend on a statement piece that you like, there are plenty of quality sofas available at various price levels. Therefore, you have to be careful with your emotions before your wallet runs out of money.  People also evaluate factors in additional costs such as delivery and potential customization.

Maintenance and Cleaning

The ease of maintenance is really necessary when choosing sofa covers. Sofas with removable and washable covers or stain-resistant fabrics can be a lifesaver, especially in homes with children or pets. Checking the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and care is a good idea, if you don’t want to accidentally damage  those covers.

Testimonials and Reviews

Before finalizing your decision, you should spend your time on researching customer testimonials and reviews. Real-world experiences from other buyers can provide insights into the sofa’s quality, durability, and after-sales service of the manufacturer or retailer.

Conclusion

Choosing the right sofa for your living room is a significant decision that goes beyond aesthetics. It involves a thoughtful consideration of size, style, comfort, and functionality. By taking the time to assess your needs and preferences, you can find the perfect sofa that not only suits your living space but also enhances the overall comfort and ambiance of your home. Happy sofa hunting!

Designing a Bathroom with the Focal Point of a Bathtub

The bathroom is often considered a sanctuary, a place of tranquility and relaxation in the midst of our hectic lives. When you want to design a bathroom, the choice of a focal point can significantly influence the overall aesthetic and ambiance. One timeless and luxurious option is to make the bathtub the centerpiece of your bathroom design. In this guide, we’ll explore creative ideas and practical tips for designing a bathroom that revolves around the focal point of a stunning bathtub, creating a space that combines elegance and functionality.

Choosing the Perfect Bathtub (The Focal Point)

Image credit: Veranda/Thomas Loof

Selecting the right bathtub is the first step in designing a bathroom with a focal point of a bathtub. You should consider factors such as size, style, material, and features. For style, freestanding tubs are an excellent choice for making a bold statement, while built-in tubs can provide a more seamless and integrated look. Materials like cast iron, acrylic, and stone offer different aesthetics and maintenance requirements. Let’s choose a bathtub that aligns with your personal preferences and complements the overall design theme of your bathroom.

Placement and Layout to make the focal point of bathtub more attractive

Once you’ve chosen the perfect bathtub, the next thing you need to consider is its placement within the bathroom layout. The ideal location is often near a window to take advantage of natural light which offers a serene and spa-like atmosphere. Additionally, placing the bathtub strategically can create a sense of flow within the space. You can also consider the sightlines from the entrance of the bathroom and position the tub to draw the eye, making it the focal point upon entering the room.

Lighting to Enhance Ambiance

Lighting is one of the key elements for highlighting the focal point of your bathtub. A combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting can create a well-lit and inviting atmosphere. Pendant lights or chandeliers above the bathtub for a touch of glamor are also good recommendations for the focal point. You should install dimmer switches to adjust the lighting intensity based on your mood or the time of day. On the other hand, you also need to set up indirect lighting, such as LED strips around the base of the tub or beneath floating vanities, which can add a soft and soothing glow.

Surroundings and Decoration

To enhance the overall aesthetic, let’s carefully curate the surroundings of the bathtub. You should choose complementary materials for the walls, floors, and surfaces and consider using high-quality tiles, natural stone, or wood finishes to create a cohesive and appealing backdrop. You can incorporate elements like large mirrors to reflect light and visually expand the space. Greenery or decorative accents are also a good choice for bringing a touch of nature into the bathroom. They help enhance the overall sense of tranquility.

Statement Fixtures and Faucets for the focal point of bathtub

You need to pay attention to the details such as outstanding fixtures and faucets that suit the design of the bathtub. I highly recommend options for elegant, high-quality finishes such as brushed nickel, matte black, or polished chrome. Moreover, unique faucet designs or wall-mounted fixtures will add a touch of sophistication. Cohesiveness in fixture styles and finishes will contribute to a unified and polished look.

Storage Solutions

Efficient storage is essential for maintaining a clutter-free and luxurious bathroom. You should choose storage solutions that integrate with the design while providing functionality. Floating shelves, built-in niches, and concealed cabinets can offer space for towels, toiletries, and bath essentials. You can also consider open shelving for displaying decorative items or neatly folded towels, adding a personalized touch to the space.

Color Palette and Textures

A color palette is crucial for setting the desired mood in your bathroom. Soft, neutral tones create a serene and spa-like atmosphere, while bold colors can make a statement if used thoughtfully. Meanwhile, textures through materials like natural stone, textured tiles, or plush towels add depth and visual interest. A well-balanced combination of colors and textures will contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the bathroom.

Smart Technology Integration

Smart technology will enhance the functionality and comfort of your bathroom. You can consider features such as programmable thermostat-controlled heated floors, smart mirrors with built-in lighting, or even a smart bathtub that allows you to control water temperature and jets with ease. Smart technology not only adds convenience but also contributes to the modern and luxurious feel of the space.

Personal Touches and Comfort

Finally, you can infuse your personality into the bathroom design with personal touches and elements that promote comfort. Let’s try placing plush bath mats, a stack of your favorite books, scented candles, or a cozy seating area near the bathtub. They can create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The goal is to design a space that not only looks luxurious but also feels like a retreat tailored to your preferences.

Conclusion

A bathroom with the focal point of a bathtub is your haven of luxury and relaxation within your home. From choosing the perfect bathtub to crafting a cohesive design with lighting, décor, and smart technology, every detail contributes to the overall ambiance. By combining functionality with elegance, you can transform your bathroom into a personal sanctuary where you can unwind. Let your creativity flow, and embark on the journey of designing a bathroom that revolves around the timeless allure of a captivating bathtub.

Principles for Living Room design – 10 timeless principles

Creating the perfect living room is an art form that goes beyond normal decoration works; it’s about crafting a space that reflects your personality, enhances comfort, and promotes a sense of unity. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to improve your current living room, understanding the key principles of living room design is really important. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 10 timeless principles that will help you transform your living room into a stunning and functional space.

Balance of positive and negative spaces in your living room

Achieving space balance is fundamental in living room design. Balance can be achieved through the distribution of positive and negative spaces in a room, ensuring that no one side feels heavier than the other.

Logical Furniture Placement

Careful consideration of furniture placement can significantly impact the functionality and flow of your living room. You should arrange furniture to encourage natural conversation and ensure that pathways are clear. A focal point, such as a fireplace, television, mirrors, picture, or a stunning piece of artwork, can guide the arrangement of your furniture, creating a cohesive and inviting space.

principles of color for a stunning living room design

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Colors play a crucial role in setting the tone for your living room. Let’s choose a color palette that resonates with your style and matches the overall theme of your home. You also need to consider utilizing a mix of neutral tones and accent colors to create depth and visual interest. A well-coordinated color scheme contributes to a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing design.

Lighting Design

Lighting is one of the key principles in living room design. It can transform the vibe of your living room. You should let natural light come into the living room through large windows. it not only makes your room alive but also improves your health. Besides the natural light, a system of electric lamps at night is also important. It should provide enough and even light for the living room. Moreover, you can also use lighting as a decorative element.

Texture and Pattern principles for living room design

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If you incorporate a variety of textures and patterns, it will add richness and dimension to your living room. Or, you can try some mixed materials such as wood, metal, and fabric to create visual interest. You can try any pattern and texture if you want but you have to ensure the right balance to create a visually appealing and comfortable environment.

Personalization and Statement Pieces

Let’s show your personality in the living room by adding statement pieces and personal elements. Whether it’s a unique piece of artwork, a family heirloom, or a bold accent wall, these elements make the space show your personality. A balance between functionality and personalization is necessary to create a space that feels both familiar and stunning.

principles about Scale and Proportion for living room design

For a well-designed living room, you should pay attention to the scale and proportion of furniture and decor items. You need to ensure that they are logically sized for the space, avoiding overcrowding or creating an empty feel. If you can maintain a sense of proportion, it will create visual harmony and make the room feel inviting and balanced.

movement flow principles in your living room design

For every room and space including the living room, the flow of movement within the space is really important. You have to carefully organize furniture arrangements to facilitate easy traffic patterns and ensure that there’s a logical progression from one area to another. The placement of doors and windows should be considered when arranging furniture to optimize both aesthetics and functionality.

Multifunctional Furniture utilization

When you live in a small apartment leading to the limited space for the living room, you can optimize the space by maximizing furniture functionality. Let’s invest in multifunctional furniture that serves more than one purpose. I can provide you with some ideas such as hidden storage, convertible sofas, and nesting tables… All of them are excellent choices to optimize space and enhance the versatility of your living room.

Maintain a Clutter-Free Environment

Clutter is a big enemy of your living room design. It can break your effort of making a stunning living room. Therefore, you should consider storage solutions, such as built-in shelves or stylish baskets, to keep essentials organized and maintain a clean, inviting atmosphere.

Conclusion

Somebody says that designing the perfect living room is the work of an interior designer, and you have to pay for that. However, if you don’t want to waste that money and are interested in interiors, you can do it by yourself. By incorporating these 10 timeless principles into your living room design, you’ll create a space that not only captivates the eye but also fosters comfort and harmony. You should remember that the key to a stunning living room lies in the careful consideration of balance, color, lighting, and personalization. If you master these principles, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a living room that truly reflects your style and enhances your overall living experience.

Bathroom cabinet ideas and their advantages 

Everyone in this world always wants to increase their home value and improve their living space. You can learn a lot of ways to do it, but you can think simply that the value of your house will generally increase if interior spaces are upgraded for each room including the bathroom. In this article, we will only focus on bathroom cabinet ideas for enhancing the value of your bathroom. It not only provides more storage space but also creates a modern bathroom.

What is a bathroom cabinet?

Definition of bathroom cabinet

It is not hard to understand what a bathroom cabinet is. It is simply a cabinet which is placed in the bathroom for the main purpose of storing things. It contains shelves or drawers of towels, shampoo, hairbrushes, razors, hair dryers, and so on. To sum up, bathroom cabinets store things or tools that are usually used in the bathroom. However, they sometimes have special designs compared with normal cabinets aiming to cover the weaknesses or water pipes of the bathroom. 

Recognize the difference between bathroom cabinets and vanities

Vanity is a type of cabinet that we usually see in the bathroom. They have some minor differences to help us recognize them. Vanity is usually under a sink for the main purpose of covering the water pipe and making the sink look more beautiful and eye-catching. While the bathroom cabinets are inclined to store things and organize space. Simply, we can say that all vanities are cabinets, but not all cabinets are vanities.  

Why do you need a bathroom cabinet

Building a cabinet in your bathroom is not a must, but let’s consider some benefits of it before you make the decision.

Provide more storage space

The essential advantage of a cabinet bringing to your bathroom is that provides more storage space. There will be a lot of things that need storage space such as shampoo, towels, body wash, hair dryer… In case you have a lot of that stuff, you will feel so lucky if you have a cabinet in your bathroom to store those things. Moreover, It also helps you easily find out the things that you are in need of, especially small things such as hair clips, razors, dental floss, perfume…

Help your bathroom to be clean and neat

There is no doubt that a bathroom cabinet will provide more storage space and reorganize stuff in your bathroom. The better they are reorganized, the neater and cleaner your bathroom will be. It also covers small things and removes the clutter, so you will feel more comfortable when looking at the bathroom.

Improve the space of the bathroom

If you want to upgrade your bathroom and are ready to spend money on it, what about an outstanding cabinet? With a beautiful, stunning, and modern one, your bathroom will be more attractive, which helps to improve your feeling when you take a shower or rewind. Some people have a hobby that is to relax in their bathroom, so the space of the bathroom is really important for these people.

Easy to customize 

Another benefit is customizable features. A cabinet can help you lightly adjust the bathroom space whenever you want. You can repaint it with your favorite color or customize the shape to suit your bathroom.

Increase the value of the house

The value of the bathroom will rise to another level if it has a cabinet. If you have a modern and attractive bathroom, it absolutely affects the price when you sell or rent out your house. In some cases, you have to move to another area for some reason. That will be a smart idea when you hang a board “for sale” or “for rent” in front of your house.

Things to keep in mind when building a bathroom cabinet

Anti-water materials

Because of the domination of the water and humidity in the bathroom, you have to make sure that your cabinet has to be made or covered by anti-water materials. Without an anti-water feature, water and humidity can damage it so badly. Furthermore, it can be a good place for mold growth, which can lead to some respiratory diseases.

Wall-mounted or elevated bathroom cabinet

In the bathroom, water usually pours out onto the floor and it sometimes spreads to the area under the cabinet. Thus, you have to make sure that you can always clean and wipe that area. There are 2 types of cabinets that can solve this problem: wall-mounted and elevated type. I prefer an elevated cabinet to a wall-mounted one because the wall-mounted is harder to install.

Design and space optimization

You have to highly consider the design of the bathroom cabinet because it sometimes has a special design to cover the water pipes. In this case, you have to measure the water pipes carefully and create the right cabinet design that suits them. Besides, you should measure the space where the cabinet will be placed to pick the suitable size of it. It will help you optimize the storage space as much as possible and balance the positive and negative space in your bathroom.

Accessibility 

Every furniture has its functions and it will be silly when you can not or hardly access them. The cabinet is not an exception, you should place it in a place that is easy to approach. Especially with wall-mounted types, it is not smart when mount them too high. Standing on tiptoes to take something from the cabinet in the bathroom where the floor is usually covered by water is very dangerous.

Some stunning cabinet ideas for your bathroom

Floating Vanity

Image credit: Wwmake

If your bathroom follows the modern style, you should consider a floating vanity. It not only provides a modern look but also helps you cover the water pipes under the sinks and create more floor space illusion.

Open Shelving Bathroom Cabinet

Image credit: Pexel/ Joey Galang

An open shelving idea is a good choice for you if you are a person who loves neatness. It is different from the traditional closed cabinet, the open shelving type will show everything stored inside. Therefore, you have to arrange everything inside logically to avoid the messy and cluttered feeling when looking at the cabinet. However, it sometimes helps you rewind and release stress, for instance, some people feel satisfied when seeing neatly folded towels.

Mirrored Cabinet

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Cabinets with mirrored fronts will provide multiple functionalities. Besides the storing function, sometimes you can use it as a mirror. It also reflects the light and duplicates the space, which makes the bathroom feel larger. This idea is very suitable for the small bathrooms.

Built-In Bathroom Cabinet

A small built-in cabinet will blow a new wind to your bathroom design, it also utilizes every wall niches or alcoves for storage. You can put in some decorative elements or neatly folded towels to make your bathroom more attractive. However, you have to spend more time and effort to build a built-in cabinet compared with a normal one.

Image credit: Angelamariemade

Hidden Storage

If you want to keep the storing function but do not want the presence of a cabinet in your bathroom, the hidden storage type will be the right choice for you. It will be hidden by another object such as a mirror, wall, or picture, so the design of the room will not change too much in general view.

Customized Drawers

You can customize the drawers of the cabinet to utilize the storing function and make it more personal. For example, a drawer can be divided into many cells for organizing toiletries, makeup, watches, ties, jewelry…

Vertical storage tower or Corner Bathroom Cabinet

If your bathroom has limited space, why don’t you try a vertical storage tower or corner cabinet? They only occupy a little space, especially the corner cabinet which can utilize the corner space which people rarely use.

Marble Countertop Vanity

Marble is very common in the kitchen and bathroom because it is very easy to clean and has a long lifespan. If you want your bathroom to look more elegant, you can try a luxurious marble countertop for the vanity. For me, I prefer the light-colored marble over the dark one, because It makes your bathroom wider and brighter.

Pull-Out Hampers

Integrating pull-out hampers into the cabinet will help you save space and cover the dirty clothes. People will not fold their dirty clothes, they usually leave them as a mess until they do the laundry. Leaving them inside a cabinet will make the bathroom neater.

Modern Geometric Designs

If the cabinet is the focal point of the bathroom, it should have extraordinary designs and the modern geometric pattern is one of them. This modern geometric design is not common, but if you can do it well, you will get a stunning bathroom and differ from the rest of the world.

Under-Cabinet Lighting

With under-cabinet lighting, the atmosphere will become cozier and more inviting. It is very easy to install this type of lighting, you only need to buy the LED light tape and stick it under the bathroom cabinet. However, you have to ensure that electric connectors are sealed carefully because there is a lot of water and humidity in the bathroom.

Conclusion

We can not deny the benefits that a cabinet brings to you. It provides extra storage, and neater space, and enhances the value of the bathroom. However, there are some things you have to notice such as the material, design, accessibility, and the location space of the cabinet. You also have to choose the right ideas for the cabinet to suit your bathroom space and the design of your design.

Open kitchen ideas help your house more beautiful

What is an open kitchen?

As its name implies, an open kitchen refers to a cooking place where walls and obstacles are limited, aiming to create a widened space. Obviously, it is the result of the integration of the kitchen and other surrounding areas such as the living room, dining room, backyard, or garden into a large room/space. 

The open-concept kitchen appeared in the late 19th century and became more popular in the mid-20th century, especially in the United States. Along with the bloom of minimalism, the open kitchen concept still be a good choice for modern life 

Read more: Grey And White Kitchen Ideas

The benefits and drawbacks of an open kitchen

The benefits of exposed kitchen

Convenience for movement 

There is no doubt that accessibility and movement will be easier with a kitchen following the open space concept. The fewer barriers and walls, the more convenience in cooking, preparing, and serving food. Therefore, the combination of the dining room and kitchen is very popular because of their function. Sometimes, the dining area can temporarily become a place to prepare food for parties. On the other hand, there are some designs that connect the kitchen to the garden where is full of fruits, vegetables, or spices. It will be very convenient because they can be harvested and moved directly to the kitchen for cooking or processing. The integration of the kitchen and backyard will benefit BBQ parties, the time for BBQ party preparation or cleaning will be shortened and people will have more time for digging and chatting. 

For me, an idea that can create an open space among the dining room, backyard, and garden is the best idea ever. The kitchen will be the center area surrounded by these areas.

The feeling of expansive space.

The elimination of the walls and barriers will absolutely create a large space for your house. It is very suitable for a small house or apartment. The open space created by the kitchen, living room, and dining room is very popular in medium-sized apartments. By eliminating walls, there is an uninterrupted line of sight throughout the living areas. It creates a sense of continuity and makes the apartment feel more expansive while the area of that apartment is not changed. 

Natural light for the health 

Open kitchens often allow more natural light to flow into the space. If there are windows in the nearby areas, the light can easily penetrate the kitchen without any obstruction from walls or barriers. Increased natural light has a significant impact on people’s health such as boosting vitamin D, reducing stress or depression, and killing disease-causing bacteria,… 

Increase in face-to-face interaction. 

The open concept also brings people or family members closer due to no more separation of obstacles. There will be more talks and social interaction during cooking and preparing food. It will be easier to commute to each other from the kitchen to another room where the wall was eliminated. Sometimes, when the homeowner opens a party, the stage of preparing and cooking food will be more interesting because people can talk, chat, and interact with others while they are working. Finally, it makes the house more lively, bustling, and cozier than a house which has a closed floor plan

The drawbacks of an unenclosed kitchen

Offensive smell

It’s not hard to recognize the smell as a disadvantage of the open kitchen. The house can be totally full of food smells when someone is cooking in the kitchen, especially for heavy-smelling dishes. Furthermore, furniture made of fabric or cotton can easily absorb the smell of food and the situation will become worse if there is some foods are burned in the kitchen. 

Unpleasant noise

Noise is another drawback the homeowner has to consider before designing an open kitchen. It is easy to understand that as the space becomes larger, the sound will be louder. Only a small sound in the kitchen can become a loud sound when heard from the living or dining room. Let’s imagine that there are some people watching television or sleeping on the sofa, but the sound from pots, bowls, dishes… hitting together and making them feel bothered while enjoying the TV shows or having a sweet sleep.

Regular cleaning 

The open-concept kitchen, especially between the kitchen and living room, also forces the homeowner to always notice whether the kitchen is messy. Because of no walls and barriers, visitors can draw their eyes directly to the kitchen instantly when they have the first step into the living room. Therefore, if the homeowner wants his guests to be stunned by the open concept of the house, he has to ensure that everything is clean and neat. However, in an open kitchen, cabinets or drawers may be eliminated to create more space, which leads to a lack of storage space for cooking tools, pots, and dinnerware. Consequently, the kitchen will easily get messy and cluttered.

The principles for building a kitchen with open-concept

Open layout

Open layout plays a crucial role in building an open kitchen. It will be meaningless if there is an open kitchen which evokes a feeling of narrow or limited space. Therefore, the walls or barriers have to be eliminated enough to create a widened space between the kitchen and surrounding spaces. Along with spaciousness, convenient movement has to be ensured between rooms or function areas.

Natural light

Natural light is one of the essential elements in designing an open-concept kitchen. With the natural light, the sense of spaciousness will be enhanced significantly and the brightness of the kitchen will be optimized, which helps the monthly electric bill decrease.

Functional zones

Because there are no walls to separate the space into function rooms. Thus, the homeowner has to draw down the functional zone logically before building the kitchen to ensure a convenient working flow as well as a beautiful open concept. The logical functional-zone separation will help improve the speed of food preparation, cooking, or cleaning and neatness of the kitchen.  

Storage solutions

Storage will be a big problem for a cooking lover or a big family due to a large amount of dinnerware and cooking tools. Therefore, storage optimization is very necessary for an open kitchen where some storage places can be removed to create an open concept. Some storage solutions can be considered to help the kitchen neater such as multi-drawer cabinets, vertical storage, or pantry area…

Seamless transitions

The sense of spaciousness also comes from the consistency among the kitchen and adjoining areas in paint color, design element, and floor patent. For colors, bright colors are highly recommended because they evoke the feeling of a large space. However, if there is an overwhelm of bright colors, it will make the kitchen dazzle. Minimal design elements and no-texture or simple texture patents should be considered for the open kitchen too. 

Proper ventilation

As discussed above, the smell is a disadvantage of the open-concept kitchen. Thus building a high-quality ventilation system is a smart choice to limit the smell, smoke, odors, or heat generated during cooking. Proper ventilation promotes a comfortable and healthy environment within the open kitchen space.

Flexible seating

Flexible seating options will help the kitchen have a balance of space creation and functionality. The homeowner can set up bar stools on the kitchen island or lightweight chairs for the dining table. These stools or chairs can be removed to create a wider space if it is necessary, or changed for functional area creation.

Consider acoustics

To eliminate the annoying sounds from the kitchen, the homeowner can apply acoustic treatments such as sound-absorbing materials, rugs, or curtains. However, he should not abuse them to much, because they will help to minimize the noise but their material is an ideal place for mold or unpleasant smell to linger.

Some open kitchen concept ideas for your reference 

Open Kitchen With Island And Bar Seating

Image credit: HGTV/Michael Hunter

The kitchen island not only helps the kitchen have a widened look but also is a functional area. A kitchen island with some bar seating around will be a good place for eating, drinking, and preparing food. Sometimes, it will be a place for working, studying, and entertaining. 

Large Windows or Glass Walls For Exposed Kitchen

Image credit: Theinspiredroom

There is no doubt that natural light will make a place look larger and brighter. Therefore, let the kitchen dive into the natural light from windows or glass walls. 

Double-Sided Fireplace For A Cozy Open Kitchen

Image credit: Thespurce/Mike Chajecki

There is an idea to suit nations having freezing winters, which is a double-sided fireplace. The kitchen and another room such as the living room or dining room will share the fireplace together. Besides, the fireplace will ensure that the sight from the kitchen can easily go through it to the shared fireplace room.  

Unclosed Kitchen And Open Shelving Dividers

Image credit: Architecturaldigest/FRENCH+TYE

There is a similar idea with the double-sided fireplace above but everyone can apply it without the weather consideration. It has the same formula as the double-sided fireplace but now is the double-sided shelf. 

Hidden Appliances For A Seamless Open Kitchen

Image credit: HGTV/ Chad Mellon

White paint color, natural light, and hidden appliances are a perfect combo for the spacious sense. Thus, hidden appliances will create a seamless sight for the kitchen. The appliances will be out of sight because they are hidden in the cabinet or covered by the same surrounding pattern. Finally, there will be nothing to distract the eyes from the overall view of the kitchen, which invokes the larger kitchen feeling. 

Modern Open Kitchen With Peninsula

Image credit: HGTV/Mary Costa

If the kitchen lacks space for the kitchen island idea, let’s consider the kitchen peninsula. The peninsula has similar functions as the island and it is usually near the entrance to the kitchen. So that, it can help widen the sight into the kitchen and make the space opener. 

Mirrors For Kitchen Space Duplication

Image Credit: Imageglass

We can not deny the fact that the mirrors will reflect the light which makes the kitchen brighter and wider. Moreover, it also evokes a spacious feeling because of its image reflection feature. There are some ideas that can help the kitchen look larger such as mirror/glass-door cabinets or mirror backsplash as in the picture above.

Grey and white kitchen ideas

There are many ideas to design the kitchen, but it is not easy to find out kitchen ideas to keep the kitchen stay away from outdatedness for a long time. Grey and white kitchen ideas will help the kitchen look modern, fresh, and bright for decades. They are really suitable for people who have a simple life and do not want many changes. 

What is a grey and white kitchen? 

A grey and white kitchen is simply a kitchen with a domination of grey and white. These colors may come from paint colors or materials of furniture, tools, or stuff in the kitchen. However, the most important thing is the idea of the grey and white combination to create a harmonious kitchen. 

Why is the grey and white kitchen? 

Grey and white kitchen ideas seem to be never going out of style. They bring simplicity, modernity, and cleanliness to the kitchen. White can make the kitchen look large, bright, fresh, and simple. However, it will create emptiness and unfriendliness if the kitchen is totally white. Thus, a combination with another color, such as grey, is a must. Grey can evoke the senses of hi-technology, intelligence, and dignity. That is the reason making the kitchen look more modern with grey. The combination of grey and white will create a timeless kitchen and it also suits people who follow minimalism. 

Grey and white kitchen ideas

Below are some considerable grey and white kitchen ideas for a beautiful, modern, and timeless kitchen.

Grey cabinets and white backsplash 

Image credit: HGTV/Mary Costa

The kitchen idea with grey cabinets and white backsplash is very common. All cabinets and drawers will be painted medium or dark grey, and the backsplash will be filled with white tiles. With this design, because of the white backsplash, the countertop seems to be larger and brighter. The cabinets and drawers will not get dirty too quickly because of medium or dark grey. However, the dirt will be easily detected on the white backsplash, so the backsplash must be cleaned regularly. 

Grey backsplash and white cabinets

This idea is contrary to the idea above, all cabinets and drawers are white, while the backsplash is medium or dark grey. This design will make the countertop look narrow and small. But, in the general view, the kitchen will look large. Moreover, the backsplash does not need to be cleaned too regularly. Instead of that, the cabinets and drawers now need more care to keep them clean. In my opinion, I prefer the idea of grey cabinets and white backsplash to this idea, because it is easier to clean the backsplash surface than cabinets and drawers. 

Image credit: Soul and Land/Stagerroz

White kitchen island in the gray kitchen 

Image credit: HGTV/Michael Hunter

If the kitchen island is selected as the focal point of the kitchen, this idea will highlight the kitchen island. In this design, all the cabinets and drawers will be dark grey and the backsplash can be light or medium grey, and a white kitchen will absolutely be outstanding to attract visitors’ eyes. The ceiling is recommended to paint white. Because if it is grey too, the kitchen will look so tight and small. 

Grey lower cabinets and no upper cabinets

Image credit: Theinspiredroom

If the kitchen has a big window, this idea will be very good for this type of kitchen. Because there are no upper cabinets, it is not necessary to remove and close off the window. Therefore, the natural light will come through the window to the kitchen and combine with the white of the backsplash and wall to create a bright kitchen. The space from the countertop to the ceiling of the kitchen also seems to be neat and open due to no upper cabinets. Besides, there may be a lack of storage because there are only lower cabinets. This idea will suit a cooking hater, couple, or small family because it is not too much crockery and other things. 

Grey lower cabinets and white upper cabinets 

Image credit: DigsDigs

This idea is quite similar to the no-upper cabinet design above. The only different thing is the upper cabinet’s existence. If the homeowner has many things in the kitchen, the upper cabinets are necessary for storage space. In this design, all upper cabinets will be painted white as same as the wall along with a white backsplash. Thus, the space from the countertop to the ceiling of the kitchen still looks more open and wider.

Grey-to-white kitchen idea

Image credit: Trendir

As its name implies, this idea will show the change from grey to white. it is started with dark grey lower cabinets to the medium grey backsplash. Finally, the white upper cabinets along with the white of the wall and ceiling. This idea is quite interesting because it shows 3 colors separately: dark grey at the bottom, medium grey in the middle, and white at the top. In my opinion, it will be better if the floor is a dark color such as a dark wood floor for the suitability of dark grey cabinets and the floor. 

White kitchen with grey texture

Image credit: TLCinteriors

Grey textures from Marble are commonly used in the kitchen. Marble, a natural stone, is usually white with existing textures on it, these textures could be grey, orange, or yellow… but grey textures are the most common. Another option is white porcelain slabs with Marble textures. Both Marble and porcelain surfaces are easy to maintain and clean, so it is very suitable for the backsplash and countertop. To emphasize the grey textures, it should be white walls and light grey cabinets for the kitchen.

Conclusion

In conclusion, grey and white kitchen ideas are the best for those who love simplicity and minimalism. These ideas create a bright, wide, and modern kitchen for a long time. That is the reason why these ideas are commonly applied by interior designers to build timeless kitchens over the world. 

Best bedroom colors for sleep! How to have a restful sleep?

Some people think that they have insomnia, but the reason may come from their bedroom. This article will help to improve sleep through bedroom colors and other factors such as bedding, mattress, air, smell, and curtain…

Best bedroom colors for sleep

The relevance between color and psychology was demonstrated by researchers, so the color was applied to improve sleep quality. There are some colors such as blue, peach color, and pink… can help the brain calm down for a night of deep sleep.

A cozy peach color bedroom for sleep

Image credit: Asianpaints

Peach color represents communication, friendship, and happiness. It also has a positive influence on our emotions.
Peach color evokes feelings of comfort, joy, and warmth. Peach color will provide a serene impact on our mind, so it will protect us from negative emotions such as sadness and disappointment.
With those features of peach color, it can improve sleep as well. In winter, especially, when the weather becomes cold and the atmosphere is dreary, which evokes lonely and sad feelings. Stepping into a cozy bedroom with peach color will make sleep more comfortable.

Blue paint colors for the bedroom to have a restful sleep

Image credit: Brooklinteriors

When looking at the blue color, people usually think about the ocean or sky. So, blue is a symbol of freedom, imagination, and open spaces. It also represents trust, royalty, serenity, and peace.
For psychological impact, the blue color will create feelings of calmness, relaxation, confidence, and reliability. The association of blue with serenity and calm was demonstrated in a research named “Interior Color and Psychological Functioning in a University Residence Hall” in 2018. According to the study, I think blue is the best color for the bedroom to have a deep sleep.
On the other hand, dark blue can also evoke feelings of sadness and depression. Therefore, I prefer using light blue rather than dark blue for the bedroom to have the best effect.

White and grey bedroom colors for sleep

Another choice for your bedroom color is a combination of white and grey color. White is associated with purity, freshness, and innocence, while grey is known as a color of balance, neutrality, and stability.
White can re-freshen our minds, but there is a disadvantage that has a bad impact on sleep. A bedroom dominated by white looks more bright than others because white reflects all the visible wavelengths of light that shine on it. To reduce the impact of the light reflection of white color on our sleep, let’s combine white with other colors such as grey. Grey affects the brain with some supportive emotions for sleep such as calmness, relaxation, and soothing. However, like dark blue, dark grey can raise a gloomy atmosphere, so using light grey (silver color) for the bedroom to have a good sleep. In this combination, using silver color for the bedding set is preferred to white color, because a white color bedding set will easily show dirt on them and get old quickly. Image credit: PaintGreen

Positive impacts of pink bedroom colors on sleep

Pink, a favorite color of most girls, presents femininity, love, and playfulness. It has some good effects on the emotional state that can help us sleep well. Pink may evoke feelings of calmness, peace, relaxation, and satisfaction. In the late 1960s, a researcher, Alexander Schauss, studied psychological and physiological responses to the color pink. He convinced the directors of a Naval correctional institute in Seattle, Washington to paint some prison confinement cells pink, Baker-Miller Pink, to see the effect of pink on prisoners. As the result, pink was demonstrated to reduce aggression and lower blood pressure.

However, hot pink can bring the effect as same as red, that are increasing energy, blood pressure, and pulse, and causing palpitations. Therefore, in order to have a nice sleep, soft pink is recommended for the bedroom color.

Worst bedroom colors for sleep

Besides the best colors for sleep, there are also some colors having bad effects on sleep.

Red bedroom

Image credit: Pinterest/ Lisa M Smith

Red usually symbolizes excitement, danger, energy, or action. So, it has some negative impacts on the emotional state, which make us hard to fall asleep. Red stimulates energy, evokes aggression or anger, and increases blood pressure and heart rate. Red also creates the feeling of caution, which is the reason why red is used in signals and alerts of caution. With those negative traits, the red color is absolutely a bad idea for the bedroom.

Purple paint for bedroom

Image credit: Oursleepguide

Purple is another bad color for the bedroom. It is associated with a variety of meaning such as creativity, luxury, power, and magic… Purple stimulates creativity and imagination, which means the brain is still working, so it is not easy to wind down for sleep. Keeping purple out of the bedroom is a smart choice.

Black bedroom

Image credit: Reader’s Digest

When mentioning black, many people will think that black is so dark, so it’s a suitable color for the bedroom. However, the effect of black is the opposite. Black presents power, elegance, and strength, but it is also known as a symbol of total sadness and depression, fear, evil, and death. Sleeping in a bedroom dominated by black will evoke feelings of sadness, loneliness, and fear, especially for kids, and the probability of having a dark nightmare is higher than in other colors. Therefore, black is not recommended for the bedroom.

Other factors combine with bedroom colors for a nice sleep.

Along with bedroom colors, other factors such as bed size, bedding, mattress, air, and light… are also considered for deep sleep.

Bed size

To sleep like a baby, the first thing we have to do is choose the right bed size. The bed selection is based on aspects such as the bedroom size; whether the bed is the focal point; the number, height, and weight of people lying on that bed. In this article, the bed selection is only based on the aspect of the normal adult number. A twin bed is enough for one person, but I recommend a full double or queen bed for people who live alone. Because it will be more comfortable in case a friend visits and stays overnight. For a couple, the ideal size is a queen bed. And for a family with 1 child, a king bed is a perfect choice.

Bedding and mattress

Bedding and mattress play an important role in our sleep. Determining the sleep position is the first step in selecting the right bedding and mattress. The mattress is commonly divided into 6 firmness levels including Extra-Soft, Soft, Medium, Medium-Firm, Firm, and Extra firm.
For side sleepers, a combination of a Soft/ Medium mattress with a thick/firm pillow is a suitable choice, because it will help to support the neck and keep the spine aligned.
For back sleepers, the best mattress firmness levels for these people are Medium and Medium-Firm. A medium-thick pillow is usually the favorite of a back sleeper. If a back sleeper uses a set of a soft mattress and thick pillows, like side sleepers, his head will be pushed too far forward and hurt the neck.
For stomach sleepers, they will look for a Medium-Firm/Firm mattress and soft/fairly flat pillows to help their neck stay in line with the spine.
For those who have a variety of sleep positions, a medium mattress and medium-thick pillows are the common choices.
Duvet, comforter, or blanket is the factor that we also need to focus on. I recommend using the duvet instead of a comforter or blanket for two reasons. First, the duvet cover, which a comforter or blanket does not have, can be changed and washed easily. The owner can change the color of the duvet at a cheap price. He can also switch to a cooling duvet cover when the summer comes. Second, a duvet tends to be heavier than a comforter or normal blanket, so it will have the function of insomnia treatment as a weighted blanket. This function was demonstrated by a study conducted by researchers at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden.

Night light

In 2017, researchers conduct a study to find out which color light is the best for sleep. As the result, The researchers determined that the preferred color light will make people fall asleep quicker than dark, white light, and non-preferred color light. Therefore, a combination of bedroom colors and a preferred color night lamp is the best for sleep. I recommend using a night lamp that can adjust the brightness to achieve the best effect.

Air and smell

Air quality plays an important role in sleep, research has found that ventilation or fresher air is associated with better sleep. So, adding some plants such as Jade plants, Aloe Vera, or Lavender…. to the bedroom will improve air quality. They will produce oxygen at night and purify the air.
A bad smell is really bad for sleep, so let’s keep it stay away from the bedroom. Instead of that, A scented candle can help to improve the quality of sleep. I suggest the lavender-scented candle because Lavender was demonstrated that has good impacts on sleep.

Curtain

The curtain will help to block light from sunlight, streetlight, or lightning to support a restful sleep. Blackout curtains are an ideal choice for the bedroom. They will completely prevent the lights and noises from outside.

Bedside table (nightstand)

The bedside table is absolutely a must. That table will help store the stuff that supports sleep. It may be a phone for those who have the behavior of using the phone before sleep, a book for the book lover, a scented candle, a plant, or a bedside lamp…

Carpet

Setting up some carpets around the bed is very supportive for sleep. It will help reduce the noise if someone is walking around the bed. It also provides a comfortable sense for the feet when waking up for going to the toilet at night, the feet will be not shocked by the cold floor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, some colors can be applied to the bedroom to enhance sleep quality such as blue, peach color, white and grey (silver grey), and pink… Besides, some colors that harm sleep should be avoided such as red, purple, and black… Furthermore, sleep can also be better by other factors such as bed size, bedding, mattress, night light, air, smell, and bedroom furniture setup.

Focal point in interior design

In Art, a focal point is the feature of an artwork, that is strongly highlighted to make people concentrate on or pay a lot of attention to it. And, interior design is a work of art, so it will absolutely appear in interior design. This article will mention the focal point in interior design and some tips to emphasize it by using lighting, color and stuff arrangement….

Focal point definition in interior design

A focal point in interiors is a feature which attracts visitor’s eyes immediately when they go into that room or space. It can be a picture, mirror, television or artwork…. it is also one of the most fundamental elements of interior design. It is not necessary to be located in the center room or space, the interior designer will do the arrangement of stuff such as furniture, decorative elements and lighting… to highlight the focal point.

Why focal point in interior design is important?

For homeowners, the focal point will create interest for the visitors when they walk into a room and are attracted by the thing which the homeowner wants to show off. The focal point usually is the hobby of the homeowner, for instance, if the homeowner is a picture lover, there will be at least one with the picture in the house. It can be considered a signal that the homeowner wants to send to find out the people have the same hobby.

For interior designers, If the homeowner has a focal point request in detail, it will help the interior designers very much in their job. They will know what they have to do to meet the requirements of the homeowner. They will easily arrange furniture and set decoration elements to highlight the thing which the homeowner wants to show off. In contrast case, the homeowner will give interior designers nothing, but his demand has to be satisfied. Sometimes, the brain of interior designers wants to explode in this hard case.

Some focal point ideas in interior design

Picture

Image credit: Pixabay/Keresi72

If the homeowner does not plan to use wallpaper or draw Murals, let’s try setting up the focal point with pictures. To catch the eyes easier, the main color of that picture should be outstanding with the wall paint color. If there is a blue wall, the dominant color of the picture should be a warm color such as red, orange, yellow…

Television

Image credit: Pinterest/ Tilen Space

Television is also a good choice if the homeowner’s family has a watching TV habit. It will be better when using a TV that can turn into a picture when it is turned off, then the focal point will change from a television into a picture. However, there is a small note that setting a spot light for television or placing a light nearby is not necessary, it will distract the attention from watching TV.

Flower vase

Image credit: Aliz’s wonderland

The flower is the best idea for the flower lover and it really suits rooms with natural light. The flower will bring the room closer to the natural mother and provide a fragrance to the house. However, it will be inconvenient, for natural flowers, as they will be replaced often before they wilted, and for artificial flowers, it will get hard for cleaning work when they are stuck by dust.

Mirror

Image credit: Homebnc

The mirror is one of the common options for the focal point. The homeowner should consider whether the mirror suits the room in size, shape and frame… to catch the eyes of visitors easily. The size of the mirror should be large enough with a customized shape or a beautiful frame also a good option to create an eye-catching mirror. 

Fireplace

Image credit: Stage my own home

Along with warmth providing function, a fireplace can be designed as a focal point. Interior designs usually make the surround of the fireplace outstanding to attract attention. The surround should have a contrasting color with the wall and adding some textures is also recommended.  

Furniture

Furniture also can be a focal point such as the bed for the bedroom, bathtub for the bathroom, working table for the home office… It is not necessary that it must be the bed for the bedroom. However, when stepping into a bedroom, the bed is usually the first thing people think about, so it is an advantage for making the bed a focal point. This also applies to with the bathroom, home office, kitchen…

Tips to emphasize the focal point (using lighting, color, texture and stuff arrangement….)

Lighting for the focal point

Lighting is a considerable element that highlights the focal point, it will be more effective at the night.  Scientists believe that lighting will attract the attention of people. Therefore, the focal point should have a spotlight on them to attract visitor’s attention except for the television. Lighting will have a bad effect on the experience with the television. 

Negative space

The focal point is absolutely a positive space which can be outstanding by being surrounded by negative spaces. However, if there are too many negative spaces, that “positive space” will be isolated and become a mistake. 

Read more: Positive And Negative Space In Interior Design

Many focal points in a house but should be one in a room

Homeowners can totally build many focal points in the house following the path that visitors have to go through to make their home visit a journey. However, there should be one in a specific room or space. If the room is big, there can be more than one , but it should be one main focal point and others is auxiliary

Contrast color

Contrast color will help the focal point be more eye-catching. For instance, if the wall is white, a picture with a dark color theme will be outstanding on that wall. For other elements nearby, it will be better if their color is not too outstanding to avoid causing distraction. 

Outstanding texture

Adding some beautiful texture is a method that interior designers usually use to create a stunning focal point. For example, a fireplace surround will be more attractive if it has some special textures on it. 

Frame the area

“Framing” is the way interior designers emphasize the focal point area by stuff arrangement. For instance, the picture below is the simplest way to frame the television

Image credit: Getquicktech

The interior designer put the TV stand below it although the TV was hung on the wall. He put a lamp and a basket of wool on the left side to balance the tree and bracket on the right side. The lamp and basket have a similar height to the tree and bracket respectively. The tree and lamp were placed on the outermost of either side, and the next things were the bracket and basket. The stuff on the TV stand is also small and has a balanced arrangement, so they do not cause distraction from the TV.

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