Guest post- Popular fireplace decor and design options for your home!

This article is provided by Andrea Vollf.

It is already March and thanks to mother nature, we have been blessed with a long, really long, winter season this year. Even though many stores have been featuring spring gears, the temperature remains low. Therefore, until Spring arrives and the weather becomes nicer, let us make most of our fireplace season.

Although a lot of homes are now opting for electric fireplaces for several reasons, from cost to its eco-friendly benefits, many homes in America are still using gas fireplaces. If you are one of them, this article is for you as I am going to focus on stylish accessories to make your traditional fireplace even more glamorous!

Unlike many people think, finding the right tools to make your fireplace stand out without breaking the bank is not an easy task as fireplace tools are not sold everywhere, but at specialty stores. While I love using the internet for my projects, either for getting overall ideas to show to a client a concept or to actually browse for items to be used in the project, there are certain things that you must see in person, such fabrics, furniture, and fireplace tools.

There is nothing like looking at a fireplace set in person, seeing how each item is manufactured, admiring every design details, feeling the weight of each piece carries. If you are a fireplace lover, you can definitely relate to this. Buying a fireplace set is like going to a wine tasting, where all of your senses are put to a test to help you to select the best product. 

One of my favorite places to shop for fireplaces and accessories in the Chicago area is the Northshore Fireplace store. Located in Evanston, this store has everything fireplace related that you can think of. While brass is still considered the standard for fireplace accessories, from an interior designer standpoint, there is nothing more unique and intriguing than a hand-forged tool set. In the middle of so much technology and mass production items, those sets really stand out as they are individually handmade using wrought iron and many of those sets also carry some feature from the original European blacksmith designs.

Besides being stylish and unique, a hand-forged tool set will definitely become an asset to your room design and will turn into conversational piece among family and friends. However, if you are not a huge fan of hand-forged items, and brass is also not your style, think of regular iron sets. They will bring out some of the rustic flair to your fireplace without interfering with the room overall’s design. Even though many of the iron sets resemble some of the blacksmith designs, they are not exclusive or unique like the hand-forged ones, as they can be easily replicated.

In addition to having a fireplace set that is a conversational piece, you can also enhance the area by incorporating some black and white photographs over the mantle. Create a group of 3 or 5 picture frames and place them (leaning) against the wall over the mantle. This design solution will give your traditional fireplace something else to talk about. When designing around fireplaces, use photos with a story behind it. It can be the exotic places you visited, your love story, your pet’s best shots, anything that brings you sweet memories and makes you smile.

Guest post- How To Design A Home Storage Space!

This article is provided by Andrea Vollf.

How many times have you walked into a house that looked perfect from the outside and then, from the inside, all you could think of was “where am I supposed to store all my belongings?” Unfortunately this situation is becoming very common in today’s age due to the fact that many of the new homes are relatively smaller than the ones built few decades ago. And, if you live in areas of the country where the real estate price is prime like New York City or San Francisco, having the appropriated storage space is definitely something you should think about it.

If you live in a small place such a studio, you will probably have mastered the art of keeping only the essential while making most of every inch on your walls. Vertical storage is, without a doubt, the most efficient way to maximize the storage space in a room. In the kitchen for example, instead of having artificial plants or other decor on the top of your wall cabinets to fill that empty space between the ceiling and the cabinet, adding another cabinet is a good option. This way every inch of that wall will be used towards efficient storage.

In a home with stairs, look into custom build cabinetry under the stairs for more storage. They can be as deep as the staircase or on casters for easy access. Depending on your home layout, that empty space under the stairs can easy become an extension of your kitchen as people have installed appliances as well created a nice pantry and even a wine cellar! The under the stairs space is also a great area to create a home-office or even an arts and crafts station for the kids as you have plenty of room for shelves and cabinetry.

When creating such a space, think of functionality, closed cabinets for maximum storage and open shelves for easy access. Consider using the wall space between the desk and the cabinet or shelf to store craft tools that are used every day or make it a message center to help you to keep organized throughout the day. Instead of a task lamp, opt for under cabinet lighting as it will give you more room on your desk to work on.

Furthermore, an under the stairs space can also be converted into a nice reading nook, a small mudroom, and even a space to store your shoes or, depending on where you live, your winter clothes.

Besides utilizing the space under the stairs, you should think of how the space under your bed is used. Do you have a traditional bed (mattress, box spring and bed frame) or is your mattress sitting on something else? Creating under the bed storage is another great way to make most of your space. 

Nowadays, you can find amazing beds with underneath storage for sale. If you are not so sure where to go, start looking at companies like West Elm, Crate & Barrel, and Pottery Barn as they offer a nice selection of storage beds. Available in different sizes and styles, the storage bed will certainly be a huge add-on to your room.

When it comes to accessory and functionality, one of my favorite items to any living space is the storage ottoman. Versatile, the storage ottoman can give you a storage space and an extra sitting spot. It also serves as a nice end table for your living room, as well as a footboard in your bedroom or a place to sit while getting dressed in your walk-in closet or bathroom. For more storage, consider replacing your coffee table with large storage ottoman. Add fun to any room by playing with colors or for a more sophisticated look, simply go neutral. 

If you like to travel or if you are a fan of old world design, consider creating an end table made with stackable trunks. It will not only character to the room, but it will also provide you with extra storage space while creating an unique conversational piece. After all, everything deserves a place to be.

Product review- All Tapestry!

What is the first thing that comes in mind when you think of tapestry? Too traditional? Too old-fashioned? To me, tapestry conjures a sense of old world grandeur and luxury because they are usually found in old castles or large mansions. 

Fortunately, tapestry has come a long way and now, they are easily accessible and available in all price range. The type of tapestry I like most are those that are affordable and comes in all sorts of styles and sizes. All Tapestry is such example.

All Tapestry offers tapestry from charming European designs to modern abstract designs. So imagine how thrilled I was to be asked to pick any tapestry from their wonderful website for this review!

I love so many of their tapestries so it was quite hard for me to narrow it down to one choice. Here are some of my favorites (some that I really liked and has considered getting)!

Panelled Detail of Doves Tapestry Wall Hanging

Oriental Blue II Tapestry Wall Hanging - Large

Harbor at Last Light Tapestry Wall Hanging

Lavender Fields Tapestry Wall Hanging

Empire Urn II Noir Tapestry Wall Hanging

African Voyage II Tapestry Wall Hanging

Ginger Jar Tapestry Wall Hanging

Italian Orange Tree Tapestry Wall Hanging

Bar de L' Entracte Tapestry Wall Hanging

Spice Chest and Pears Tapestry Wall Hanging

Cloisonne Lapis Tapestry Wall Hanging

Elkington's Cloisonne Tapestry Wall Hanging

The Music Room Monet Tapestry Wall Hanging

Pink Fun Tapestry Wall Hanging

Docked Tapestry Wall Hanging

Aren't they beautiful? Which one is your favorite? Now you know why I had such difficulty picking "The One"! In the end, I picked this gorgeous tapestry because I think it was the best candidate for my home!

The Color of Ireland Tapestry Wall Hanging

Before I hang my tapestry, I had a few locations in mind. In the end, I decided to put it in my living room, just above my newly purchased white lacquered desk! Here it is, ta-dah!

Front view

Close up

Another close up

Side view

I love my new tapestry! The design and colors are so pretty and it looks like a work of art! I also love the grand scale of this lovely piece. Measuring at 53"Wx62"H, it filled up my big, blank wall nicely and made quite a visual statement. The warm colors in the tapestry complements our living room's stone fireplace and made the space feels even cozier, which is always a plus when you live in an area with lots of cold, wintry days like Illinois.

One thing I noticed was the rod that is included with the tapestry came in black instead of silver (as shown on their website). Personally, I prefer the black because in my opinion, it worked better with the colors found in the tapestry and looked more seamless beside the dark trim. 

Hanging the tapestry was a breeze because it came with instructions and all the necessary hardware. While trying to hang the rod, we stumbled into a small obstacle but it took us only a few minutes to figure things out. From figuring things out to measuring, drilling holes and hanging the tapestry, it only took us about half an hour. Hanging a tapestry is as easy as hanging a curtain rod, you just have to find the right person to do the job (in my case, it is my husband).

Made in USA with Jacquard looms and  pure cotton yard, this product is absolutely well-made and no details are overlooked. The back of the tapestry is sewn with a heavy fabric and the bottom of the tapestry is inserted with metal rods to hold its shape.

Charming with an old world flair, beautifully designed and thoughtfully constructed, what is not to love about this gorgeous tapestry?

*I received this product to review for free but the views and opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Don't forget to check out All Tapestry for beautiful and affordable tapestries when you get a chance!

Guest post- Beautify Your Home With an Indoor Water Fountain!

This post is provided by Doug Gardner.

Whether it is used in the living room, bedroom, hallway, office or game room, an indoor water fountain is a breathtaking decorative accessory that is sure to complement your current home décor. If you are struggling to achieve an attractive décor in your home, perhaps you should consider installing a water fountain. Some people assume they are only useful in gardens, patios and other outdoor locations, but this is not the case. 

The Beautiful Appearance of Water Fountains

The most obvious benefit of using an indoor water fountain is their magnificent appearance. Depending on the particular model you choose, it may feature a wall of water flowing down a marble or granite base. Some models even feature a base of hand-selected stones and rocks for an even greater level of detail. Indoor water fountains are truly remarkable and work in just about any home setting.

Most homeowners decide to purchase and use an indoor water fountain based on their appearance alone. The fact is that no other decorative accessory or furnishing compares to the sheer style and tranquility of a water fountain. You will get the sense of being in a relaxing spa-like environment when the water is flowing inside your home.

Other Benefits of Using an Indoor Water Fountain

But there are more benefits to using an indoor water fountain. You might be surprised to learn that they are capable of filtering impurities out of the air. When indoor pollutants are blown into the water stream, they are trapped here until the water is replaced. Installing one in your home is a simple way to improve its air quality without the need for a special air purifying device.

Indoor water fountains are also natural humidifiers. It is not uncommon for people to experience severe nasal dryness during the peak winter months, which may lead to nose bleeds and the feeling of a scratchy throat. The good news is that you can help prevent symptoms such as this by using an indoor water fountain. Although you can not see it, small water particles are released into the air, offering just enough moisture to keep the humidity up to a reasonable level.

How To Use Them In The Home

Now that you know some of the benefits of indoor water fountains, you are probably wondering how, and where, to use them inside the home. First and foremost, ask yourself: which room will benefit the most from it? Since the living room typically experiences the highest amount of traffic, this is usually the preferred location for an indoor water fountain.

Contrary to what some people may believe, an indoor water fountain does not have to take up a large amount of space. While there are certain models which are large and complex, there are also smaller models which are installed on the wall.  As long as you have an open area of wall available, you can install one of these water fountains with minimal effort.

Guest post- Color in the Sixties!

This article is provided by Adam.

It might have been fifty years ago, but the looks and colors of the nineteen sixties are as influential as ever. Not since the Baroque period had there been such an explosion of color. Men proudly sported pink shirts and women … well, we would not mention what women did to their bras.

After a period of drab austerity, where colour seemed to be have been rationed just as much as food and other necessities - and allied with scientific developments in new, bright pigmentation and materials like plastic - the world suddenly became as big and bright as a Jackson Pollock painting.

Mix in space travel, men on the moon, winning the World Cup, and mini skirts - and there was undoubtedly a new, dazzling optimism in the air. This was reflected in the way we styled our interiors, bringing color back into our lives big-time.

Warm, fully saturated colors like reds and oranges began to feature in wallpapers, carpets and curtains and great designers like Verner Panton revolutionised our interiors while artists like Mark Rothko began their formal experiments in color.

Where we might nowadays add a splash of red in a vase or centrepiece to accent an overall colour scheme - our approach in the sixties was more likely to accent a bold, hot toned red with a blob of cold, neutral grey. Some would say the approach was over the top, but it was undoubtedly daring and innovative and without the economic stability of the period it might not have happened.

Heralding in the seventies, the Vietnam War brought with it unemployment, uncertainty and self-doubt - and there was a sea change in cultural attitudes. The boldness began to fade, saturated colours mutated into muted, unsaturated colours, and the mini became the maxi. Pyschedelia was considered naïve and by the end of the period punk designers like Ron Arad were recycling found objects to make furniture and household accessories - paving the way, some would argue, for today’s popular industrial style of design.

We are now, in the twenty-first century, inhabit a more democratic design period. Tolerance and individual choice means the world of interior design encapsulates styles as different as shabby chic, traditional and baroque bohemia. For a wide, well thought out selection to revamp and revitalise your home - Design 55 are one of the best online stockists and really care about good-looking things.

So if you are going to decorate, do not just get yourself a wad of colour swatches, think about the mood you want to evoke - and use the colors of the past for inspiration to take control of your home in the present.

Guest post- Creating A Dorm Room Fit For A Queen!

This post is authored by Kelly Kassen.

When you first step foot into your new college dorm room, you are given somewhat of a clean slate. After all, now is the time in which you can meet new friends, try new hobbies, distinguish your personality and shape the future you want for yourself; the world is your blank canvas to make your mark upon, not much unlike the plain, off-white walls of your dorm room. Making your dorm room go from drag to fab is not always easy, so here are some tips that will have you feeling organized and relaxed in your castle away from home.

Most dorms have what I prefer to call “the essentials” provided for you: a bed, desk, dresser, and chair. Now, if you are one of the lucky few that does not have to share space with another, you have the freedom to let your creativity loose to express yourself from floor to ceiling.However, if you are sharing this space with a roommate, the two of you might want to come up with a theme that includes both of your styles so it does not look like one side of the area is battling the other.

This space is going to have to be multi-functional. You will have to sleep, study, have fun, get ready, and sometimes eat in this area. Keeping clean and tidy is going to be your first order of business. Get organized, period! Making sure that you are not wasting space is always vital when it comes to smaller areas. One way to do this is to incorporate your study environment into a place that you can easily turn into a place to just hang out and relax. Your desk is obviously there to study, however, setting out family photos and a stylish lamp will quickly glam up the area. Make sure you take advantage of the opportunity to expand vertically rather than horizontally by purchasing two small sets of shelves that either sit above or below the table; hide unattractive things like your calculator in a drawer, but have aesthetically enhancing items like plants sit in plain sight.

Since colleges are often picky about what can and cannot be on the walls, hanging a geometric tapestry will add some much needed color to the room. A tack board can be helpful when it comes to keeping track of important items, but why not also cover it in fun fabrics and customize your push pins to make it even more unique?

One of the most important areas of the room will be your bed. Since the mattresses and frames have probably have been used in the past, they most likely would not be the most comfortable in the world. Make sure you get a comforter and egg crate bed pad. Sites like OCM specialize in dorm bedding and have plenty of great colors and patterns. Once you have your bed all comfy, how about really making it look fit for a queen? With 3M sticky hooks on your ceiling, string, and light curtains, you can create a luxurious looking canopy around your bed (instructions here).

Tired of putting your warm feet on that cold tile floor when you wake up every morning? Purchase an area rug that harmonizes with the preferences of both you and your roommate. Not only does this get rid of the “dorm room feel” but it also gives you some color in the room. We know everyone is sick of staring at the white walls by now! One of my favorite spots for these is Linens N Things, but thrift shops and garage sales are always good if you do not mind hitting the dust out.

Closet space is nothing to joke around about in a dorm. They are small and sometimes there is only one that two people are asked to share. To make the most of this small space, only bring what you are going to need for the current semester and, when you drive to your parents’ during the holidays, switch out your wardrobe. There are all sorts of products that enable you to make sure every inch of the closet is utilized, including shoe racks, vertically stacked hangers and holders for dangling storage cubbies.

Drawer space is going to be the same as closest, LIMITED! Use this space to store anything you do not want just sitting out for anyone who is walking by to see. For those articles of clothing you do not need to access on a daily basis, use stackable wicker baskets.

Laundry can pile up quickly when you are busy running to and from class, the gym, and school events. Make sure to bring a cute laundry bag with you; the benefit of this instead of a basket is when your laundry is clean and put away the bag can easily hang in the closet or on a bed post or even be folded up, where the basket takes up valuable floor space.

Another way to make your room feel more like home is to hang some curtains that reflect you and your roommate’s taste. (This also helps if you are not an early bird). Looks can often be changed quickly and easily to help give you more light or less light, or even change the theme of the room.

All of these suggestions are easy and simple fixes to make you feel like you are at home while not hitting the pocket book too hard. College should be fun and colorful, so should your dorm room! 

Seven simple suggestions to achieve a spa-like bathroom!

If you have ever treated yourself to a session at the spa you will know that, as much as the treatments and the chance to relax, the environment plays a key part in your enjoyment of your time there.

While you can not install a full-scale spa in the corner of your home, you can give one room a revamp to give it the character of a mini-spa; the bathroom. Think about it; this is the one room in the house where you can have utter privacy and indulge yourself.

The following tips will help you create a bathroom with a spa-like feel.

1. Earth bound

When you think of the colour scheme in a spa, what comes to mind? Light, natural colours are favoured in the spa environment as they create a sense of calm and tranquility. Earthy tones like beiges and greens complement a spectrum of blues which work together for a holistic effect. Decorate your bathroom in light, earthy colors to recreate the feel of a spa.

2. The little things

If the taps in your bathroom are mismatched then remedy the situation! One characteristic of a spa is deign consistency. Stunning Mira Showers mixer taps come in a range of styles to suit your taste and are not only elegant, but durable and practical as well. Nothing less could be expected of Mira Showers which has been in the bathroom business for nearly 100 years.

3. Sign of life

The presence of a plant in your bathroom will work wonders for creating a spa-like feel. Orchids are ideal as they are elegant and graceful. They also look fabulous on the counter and last for months.

4. Making scents

Soothing scents are indispensable to the spa experience, so make sure you emulate this in your bathroom.

Choose an essential oil which you like and dab it around the room. Lavender and eucalyptus are the perfect scents for a spa-like bathroom.

5. Elegant storage

Do away with the packages of health and beauty products that litter up any bathroom and place them in glass containers instead. What looks more spa-like; cotton balls in their box or in a pretty glass container?

6. The extras

Your shower curtain may be fun but if that means it is bright, jazzy and jarring it is probably not right for a spa environment. Replace it with a more subdued curtain in light hues or semi-transparent so that light can get through.

The same goes for your bath mat. A wooden panel mat always looks better and is easier to take care of.

7. Plan to relax

If you are going to the trouble of transforming your bathroom, make sure you have the bits and pieces for relaxing. Do you need a little table next to your bath for a glass of juice or wine? What about a rubber pillow to fix at the head of the tub? Oh – and don’t forget the candles!

Happy blog anniversary?

Today marked another milestone for my blog. Mix And Chic turns three today!

Instead of feeling happy, I feel mentally exhausted. Not to be a Debbie Downer or anything but a lot of unhappy things happened to me recently and it made me wants to quit blogging altogether. If you are a regular reader, you will noticed that I don't post like I used to (at a specific time). To be honest, blogging seems like a chore to me now.

Perhaps a long blogging break is all I needed? Or having less posts in a week might help? I don't know. If you are a blogger and have been in a similar situation, what did you do to pick yourself up? Suggestions?

To all fans and supporters of Mix And Chic, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. Without you, I wouldn't have come this far.

Guest post- How can bedroom furniture help you achieve New Years resolutions?

This article is provided by Joseph Halsall. 

Most people’s New Year’s resolutions include the ambition to include more order in their lives. Other people might want to de-stress by ensuring that they use their leisure time more effectively.

A good night’s sleep is always important and a good bed, with storage options could make your resolutions come true.

The benefits of contemporary bedroom furniture

If you are determined to carry out these particular New Year’s resolutions, then a good place to start will be examining the options for the very latest bedroom furniture.

Modern bedroom furniture often doubles up as a vehicle for storage. This applies to furniture for both adults and children.

Lumpy mattresses are a thing of the past and whether you choose a Tempur memory mattress or a sturdy divan you will be guaranteed a good night’s sleep. No one can function with the pressures of the 21^st century without suitable rest and relaxation.

A new bedroom design for a New Year

In order to carry out your resolutions, take a good look at the bedrooms you wish to modify and then draw up a realistic budget. If the kids’ room is always sprawling with toys, discarded trainers and other delights then try and see how tidying up might become a reality instead of a dream.

One way in which to tackle the nightmare of clutter is to invest in units that look fun and are easy to use. If you decided to buy a cabin bed for your child, then the range of drawers and shelving that comes with this particular bed will please you.

You will also have a good chance of fulfilling your decluttering ambition.

Bedroom furniture for adults

If you have decided that you need to de clutter in order to run your life more efficiently then you could always take a look at adult beds that incorporate storage within their design. This is an easy way to store bulky objects of clothing or surplus bedding.

Clutter is synonymous with disorganisation and it is difficult to relax if you are surrounded by items of clothing or bedding. Blanket boxes at the foot of the bed are also a good idea, especially when covered by cushions dressed with fabric that complements your colour scheme.

Your bedroom should be relaxing

Increasingly, bedrooms are used as a place of general relaxation rather than just for sleep so make sure that you include a comfortable chair in the room. If you place it by the window, you will create a perfect spot for reading.

This occupation should recharge your batteries and renew your energy so that you can cope with any family upsets or alarms. If you have complemented your bedding with stunning curtain fabrics and other accessories you will soon find that you have created a relaxing haven.

Have a look at new light because that can make your bedroom look very chic and influence the mood too.

Order and relaxation would not necessarily solve all of life’s problems in the New Year, but at least you will be secure in the knowledge that you have a tidy house and a relaxed mind.

Guest post- 5 Must Have Backyard Swimming Pool Supplies!

This article is provided by Carol Atkins.

Homeowners who are getting ready to open their swimming pool for the summer need to make sure they have a few necessary items on hand. Pool safety and energy efficiency are extremely important and should be thought of often when maintaining any type of swimming pool. Both inground and above ground pools require specific types of maintenance supplies and equipment to ensure they are safe and ready for the fun times of summer.

Assorted Sizes and Types of Floatation Devices - A wide assortment of floatation devices is essential, especially if you have small children or inexperienced swimmers who will be in the pool frequently. Long foam tubes, conventional life jackets, inflatable rings and water wings/floaties are inexpensive and can be used for both fun and safety.

Gates and Fencing - Installing gates with latches that are high enough to prevent small children and toddlers from gaining entrance to the pool are important additions. Gates should be sturdy and must be able to latch securely. They should also be tall enough to prevent animals or children from climbing over the top. Fencing should be added that surrounds the pool on all sides to prevent unwanted visitors from wandering to close and falling.

Drain Covers - Drain covers are used to prevent large objects from entering the drain and filter systems. When debris is allowed to collect near drains and filters, they can hinder water flow making filtration systems work harder than necessary. When in operation, systems may cause strong currents to form, pulling large items towards the drain. A small child's arm or a loose fitting bathing suit can be drawn up into the drain and become stuck. Adding a drain cover will prevent accidental injuries from occurring as well as keeping larger items from clogging the entrance.

Chemical Test Kits - Chemical test kits are essential to the proper upkeep of any pool. The balance of chemicals in the pool must be kept constant to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria. Making sure a test kits is fully stocked at the beginning of the pool season makes it easy to test chemical levels each day to ensure proper balance. Checking the kit each month and restocking it when needed will guarantee there is always enough on hand to keep the water chemicals balanced and the pool crystal clear.

Pool Covers - Pool and solar covers offer several benefits. They keep debris, such as leaves and small twigs on the surface of the water so they can be easily removed and discarded. Without a cover, much of the debris would settle to the bottom making it necessary to vacuum the pool every day. Another benefit of pool and solar covers involves preventing the loss of heat and water from evaporation. Solar covers use allow sunlight to warm the water without the need for the pool's heating system.