Book review- Cabana Anthology!

Recently, I have received Cabana Anthology, another lovely publication from Vendome Press. In this delightful volume authored by Martina Mondadori Sartogo, you will find an incredible photographic journey through a unique and timeless mix of visual essays from contributors ranging from Manolo Blahnik and Alessandro Michele to Patrick Kinmoth, Christopher Gibbs and Annabelle Selldorf. The text is accompanied by artful photography by Miguel Flores-Vianna, François Halard, Tim Beddow, Guido Taroni and other internationally renowned interior photographers.

Without further ado, let's check out some of the stunning images you will find inside this fabulous book!

There is so much to love about this beautiful book! First of all, let's start with the striking hardcover. It is made with real cloth and has a nice texture to it. The book itself is pretty thick and substantial. In addition, it also includes multiple paper stocks, interior stamping and lamination and three facsimile inserts. Talk about astonishing production values!

With 488 pages of high quality photos of breathtaking interiors, impressive architecture and exquisite objects, these authentic, layered in history and deeply personal spaces will definitely wow you! 

Engaging and fascinating, this gorgeous book instantly transports me to far away places. If you love extraordinary interiors and enjoy exploring inspiring environments, this is the perfect book for you. I am so thrilled to add this inspirational design book to my collection. I know you will, too. Truly a gem and shouldn't be missed! 

Get your copy here!

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

The Modern Aesthetic: Statement Ceilings!

This post is provided by Samantha Waites.

The world of interior design is one that is as dynamic as the direction of the winds. There are so many aspects to handle in interior design, and at times, one’s creativity can easily peak in the same way that a writer hits the dreaded writer’s block.

If you have hit that plateau, as I have many times, the solution is actually rather simple- think out of the box. What is one perspective that you have not considered yet?

Too often we focus on walls, how the furniture is arranged, and how the colors are gracefully coordinated with one another. We do not give ceilings enough attention, and even when we do, the importance of a new and modern aesthetic is often overlooked.

Today, take the chance to overcome your plateau, so that you can experience the elevation of witnessing your vision materialize before your eyes. And no, there is no need to mimic the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. These are rather simple tweaks that you can definitely adopt for your home.

Here are some sleek ideas on how you can add some pop to your interior ceilings:

Play With Colors

Contrasting your ceiling with that of white elements in the surrounding area is a surefire way to add pop to your interiors. Add in some furniture that is also the same color, or a slightly different shade, and you have got a nice, mellow, design that is not only clean, but also gently playful. 

Incorporate Different Materials

This is a rather permanent design that will require that you coordinate your plans with properly-licensed roofing contractors. This is because of the multiple layers that you are going to have to put together. It is a similar concept to layering in fashion. 

Because of the relative complexity of the project, you are going to need roofers who are reliable, keen with details, and of course, very skilled. Choose a quality roofing company that has a ton of reviews that can be checked, such as Westchase Roofing. It is also important to note that your materials are entirely up to you. The more diverse the materials, the more striking the final effect. 

White Ceiling, Neutral-Colored Walls

This is the exact opposite of our first example and it gives you the illusion that your ceiling is actually higher. Neutral shades create that clean, modern aesthetic that has been incredibly popular as of late. The more contrast you add to the color of the walls, the more defined the illusion of a higher ceiling is going to be. Do not overdo it, though.

Change Up Your Finish

Another sure way of driving a statement with your ceiling is not only by adding color to it, but also by experimenting with the different types of finishes. You can try a variety of finishes like gloss, matte, pearlescent, and iridescent. The varieties are plentiful, especially when you realize that you have so many combinations of colors and finishes that will easily make for an interesting design choice. Mix and match as you please.

Book review- City Of Angels: Houses and Gardens of Los Angeles!

Today, I am thrilled to share a lovely new publication from Vendome Press with you. Thanks to Meghan Phillips for sending me City Of Angels: Houses and Gardens of Los Angeles. In this book authored by Jennifer Ash Rudick, you will find more than 25 houses, bungalows, artists' studios, and art-filled compounds that feature the best of the city's architecture and design. Let's check it out!

Here's a glimpse of what's inside this stunning book!

Photo credit: Firooz Zahedi

I can't take my eyes off this gorgeous book and its abundance of awe-inspiring images! In this book, the author leads us inside the homes of film producers and directors, artists, photographers, collectors, architects, interior designers, musicians and bohemians living happily in houses designed by renowned architects, interior designers and garden designers including Lloyd Wright, Rudolph Schindler, Richard Neutra, John Lautner, Harold Levitt, Rex Lotery, Peter Dunham, David Netto, Waldo Fernandez, Cliff Fong, Madeline Stuart, Mark D. Sikes, Mark Haddawy, Kulapat Yantrasast, Suzanne Rheinstein and Michael S. Smith.

Illustrated with hundreds of photographs of breathtaking homes, beautiful architecture and charming gardens, this book is perfect for those who love being transported to extraordinary places. With 392 pages of visually delightful and engaging content, this inspiring book is ideal for all design and architecture fans! Truly a gem and shouldn't be missed! Highly recommended! 

Get your copy here!

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

The She Shed: Your Little Space Of Quiet!

This post is provided by Samantha Waites.

Who says only men are allowed to get their own “me room” at home? We, women deserve to have our own place to escape. And, well, the ‘she shed’ is exactly that. It is a place separate from the main house that is solely dedicated to us and the things that we want to do. 

While you obviously need a shed to begin (in which case, sites like sheds Glasgow are going to be your best friend), you do not necessarily have to build a new shed if you already have an existing one. You can just as easily decorate and refurbish an old shed in order to make it the perfect happy place for you. Here are a few ways you can do just that.

Location

Naturally, an existing shed is already going to be in your backyard. But where exactly should you put your shed if you are having a new one built? Easy! Under the shade of trees or right next to the pool, if you have one. The shade is going to shield your personal space from the glaring heat of the sun while the pool not only cools the nearby air, but it also makes for another easy escape from the heat. A poolside lounge is just one great idea for a she shed.

Externals: Landscaping And Gardening

The extravagance of your shed should not be limited to the interior. The outside of your she shed, along with the surrounding external area, could be a playground for your creativity. Think of the area around your shed as your very own private island- is not that a nice thought? 

Once again, how you shape the area around your she shed is entirely up to you. Pruning, gardening, sodding, and even simply putting a path toward your she shed is a great way to delineate between your own personal area and those common spaces in the rest of the yard. 

Select Your Palette

If you do not already know, colors can have a significant impact on our emotions. It is hard to say which colors are going to work best for you, because tastes and responses vary from person to person. Each color will have a different effect on your psyche and your emotions. Some colors will help you relax while others will stimulate your creativity. This article should help you choose which color palette is best for your needs.

Furnish Your Domain

A she shed would not be truly yours if you did not have any personal effects in it. In a general sense, all you really have to do is to put the things that make you happy in there. Some popular essentials include a coffee table, loads of pillows, and of course, a nice comfy couch or daybed. 

The Core Concept

The true essence of the she shed lies in making a space that is totally for you. While not everyone will be fortunate enough to have space for a shed on their property, that does not missing out on having a place to call your own. The she shed is more of an idea than a place. Make it your own, wherever you see fit, whether that is a room, an attic or an extension.

Tips For Decorating Your College Bedroom!

The years that you spend in university will undoubtedly be some of your most memorable times. Setting off alone into the big world can be a life-altering time for most young people. The excitement of personal freedom, new friends, and new teachers can all be overwhelming at the start.

Many students want to live the full college experience with living in the dorms on campus. For others, they may want to try living independently in off campus housing. Either way, for most new college students it will be mean a brand new living space that is all their own. Whether you are sharing a dorm room or an apartment off campus, this will be your first opportunity to decorate your own space to really reflect your personality.

Your new space may have limitations about whether you can paint the walls or make any big changes, but at the end of the day it is up to you to create a comfortable and unique space of your own. Use these tips to help you design your room to be comfortable and functional with some small reminders of home.

Add Color And Flair

You may not have too many decorating options as far as the basics in your new room, so you have to be creative. Add a bright and cheery rug to the floors, and choose elements that are easily changed, like bed linens, to make a personal statement with your favorite colors.

It is not advised in most rental spaces or dorms to mount things on the walls, so you might consider using a hung wall tapestry instead. Tape up your favorite band or team posters to cover empty wall space. Dot your room with colorful throw pillows to help brighten up any dull areas.

Use A Cork Board

No matter what size you choose, a wall cork board in your college bedroom can be both functional and decorative. Use it to pin all of your essential papers and notices. It is a great way to keep your class and work schedules in plain view and in a safe place where they would not get lost.

Along with keeping all your papers and receipts in order, a cork board can be used as a display case as well. Pin up family and friend photographs or maybe a used pair of concert tickets. It is a great opportunity to create a visual snapshot of your college experience.

Lighting

Do not rely on the basic lighting that you will find in your new room. You will generally find a basic overhead light or even fluorescent lighting in some dorms. Bring a desk or a floor lamp with you to either brighten your work space or soften the effects of the overhead lights.

It a situation where you may be sharing a space, always remember to be considerate. If you are a night owl, make sure that you bring a book light or bedside lamp to use when others are trying to sleep.

Plants

Adding plants to any space is a great way to bring life and softness into the room. Plants not only provide you with better air quality but they can add a pretty flair to your space. For many students who have had to leave their family pets behind, it is a great way to still have something living to take care of. 

Under Bed Storage

Storage space is at a premium in college housing. Your personal space is already pretty tight, so it can be tough to find space for all of the rest of your stuff. Keeping things organized is the best way to stay on track.

Invest in some low level storage bins with wheels that can be easily rolled under your bed, giving you space for extra or bulky clothes and coats, blankets and bedding, shoes, books and personal items.

Four Timeless Bridal Jewelry Ideas!

This post is provided by Clarissa Caouette.

Wow...it is finally happening! Can you believe your “big day” is just right around the corner? Well, actually you are probably still running around like a mad woman trying to prepare every last detail and have not had any time to think about anything else. 

However, there is one little thing you will need to decide. And that is choosing which bridal jewelry you are going to wear for the wedding. Do not worry, I am gonna help you out. 

I will give you four timeless jewelry ideas and all you will have to do is choose your favorites. Let us begin. 

1. Crystal drop earrings

Of course, you are already going to look like a princess on the day of your wedding but a crystal drop earring can take you from a princess to a queen. They are elegant and classy plus they are able to complement any wedding dress and hairstyle. 

2. Pearl necklace

If you are looking to pull off a little more sophistication. Why not go with a timeless favorite- a white pearl necklace. It is an amazing way to look both polished and effortless at the same time. 

A shorter pearl necklace can fit perfectly with a strapless dress so that the necklace will be the accent on your look. And then you can go ahead and pair them with a pair of pearl studs or a beautiful ring with a crystal. 

Finish the look off with an elegant hairdo and you will be ready to walk down that aisle.  

3. Shoulder jewelry 

On the day of your wedding, everyone’s attention will be on you. You can keep it that way by opting out for some super noticeable shoulder jewelry. 

This is completely unique when it comes to bridal accessories and it also has a real sense of attractiveness to it. It is retro but also original because these days we are not used to seeing this type of body jewelry at weddings. It is definitely one of my favorite timeless looks. 

You can go with a very bold and detailed shoulder necklace or a more feminine and subtle one. Regardless of which one you choose, they will both look very remarkable and original. 

4. A floral head wreath

Since destination weddings are basically “the norm” now, I had to include the flower wreath in the list. A wreath made from beautiful, fresh flowers pairs perfectly with a Boho-inspired wedding dress. 

This wedding look is more relaxed and will allow for less stress and easy picture taking. 

Conclusion

Your wedding will be here and gone before you know it, so be sure to enjoy the big day when it arrives. Next thing you know, you will be preparing for kids and moving into your first home. 

Choosing your jewelry may seem like such a small detail in the grand scheme of all your planning. But sometimes it is the little things that stick out the most.

How Long Does A Standard Security System Last?

This post is provided by Jesse Hughes.

Buying an alarm system for your home is usually a big investment. After all, you want one that does the job properly. This means it needs to have movement sensors and the ability to detect if any door or window is opened when it should not be.

Unfortunately, many people believe that after such a large investment they do not need to do anything else but use the system. However, even the very best security system would not last forever.

There are several factors which dictate the life of your security system:

Maintenance

You need to use a reputable electrical security services firm and have your system maintained at least once a year. Regular maintenance and a change of batteries will help to ensure your system lasts for many years.

In fact, regular maintenance can help to ensure the key components of your system do not need replacing; you simply add new features or replace worn out parts as needed.

Technology

One of the biggest issues to face your security system is actually technology; it advances so quickly that it is possible your system will be out of date as soon as it is installed.

The advancement of smart technology has made this even more noticeable but also increased the risk; hackers and other criminal elements are working hard to find their way into your system remotely. You need to keep updating your system to stay ahead of them.

Fortunately in many cases this is possible by simply upgrading your software or specific parts of your system; the core components should not need replacing for years.

Contract Changes

A high quality security system will involve a contract; you will need to know that the company will respond in the event of the alarm going off. 

In many cases the company will install the equipment and then charge you a monthly fee. This can mean that parts of your set up are never actually yours. This is not an issue unless you decide to change contractors; then you may need to upgrade part of your system.

In fact renewing your contract is a good opportunity to review the protection you have and make improvements to your security system.

DIY

Choosing to fit and maintain a security system yourself can be more cost effective. However, this is often a short term saving. You will not be connected to a monitoring station. In fact the security system will do little more than make a lot of noise to wake you and your neighbors; assuming you and any of them are home.

If you are serious about home security, it is best to invest in a quality system that you know will give you years of service.

It may not last a lifetime but with proper maintenance and the occasional component upgrade you should not need to replace the basic hardware of your system. In return you will have peace of mind as you, your family and your possessions are protected against those with criminal intent.

How To Easily Reduce The Clutter In Your Kitchen!

This post is provided by Boris Dzhingarov.

Do you feel like you cannot escape the clutter in your home? The kitchen is one of the rooms in your home that you may want to make clutter-free because you need to have available space to prepare your meals and cook them without worrying about a bunch of products getting in your way. Even if you have a rather small kitchen, you can still get creative and eliminate the clutter by trying out some convenient and useful cabinet storage tips.

Start Using Hanging Baskets

Clutter is not just an eyesore- it is something that can negatively impact your mental health while posing as a potential fire hazard. Coming up with creative storage solutions is the best way to feel more comfortable in your living space. One way to make more space is to invest in some hanging baskets. You can store different types of items inside of these baskets, such as your dish soap, sponges, hand soap, fruits, and even containers of vitamins. Hanging baskets are convenient because they provide an additional place for you to put some belongings without taking up any extra countertop space.

Start looking around your kitchen to come up with ideas on where to place these baskets so that they are out of the way. The baskets are available in several different shapes and sizes, so you can select both smaller and larger options based on the size of the kitchen and what you are trying to store.

Save Space Inside Your Cabinets

The purpose of having cabinets is to have extra space to put different items, including utensils, plates, cups, and even your cleaning supplies. However, it is quite easy for those cabinets to become a huge mess when you have multiple items inside of them. If you would like to save the space inside of your cabinets to eliminate some of the clutter, start looking into different cabinet storage ideas. For example, you could install miniature plastic shelves on the inside of the cabinet door, giving yourself some additional space for bottles of different spices you would normally use when preparing meals.

Rather than having the spices thrown about inside of the cabinet, you could keep them lined up in a row and organized. Some people have installed magnetic strips to the doors of their cabinets so that they could easily hang some of their metal items and save that extra space.

Get Rid of What You Do Not Need

Aside from getting creative and coming up with different ways to store items inside of your kitchen, you should make sure you are getting rid of the stuff you do not need. If it is something you would normally use, you are not going to want to part with it, but there are other items in your kitchen that may be expired, may no longer work properly, or may never get used by you. If you are not using something or if it is expired, get rid of it to make more space.

If your kitchen is cluttered, start using hanging baskets, come up with creative ways to organize items inside of the cabinets, and get rid of anything you do not need. It may be possible for you to transform the room into a clutter-free kitchen in just one day.

Six Inexpensive Summer Crafts!

This post is provided by Heather Bradford.

Summertime projects are a great way to welcome in the new season with some creative flair. Not only do these crafts add character to the spaces that they fill, they also present a fun opportunity to spend time with your loved ones as you put together any number of projects yourselves. These projects can be as simple and easy as drinking glass umbrellas or as elaborate as a firepit. Along with the time commitment required, there can also be a financial price to pay when trying to complete these summertime projects. Taking that factor into consideration, the following are some projects that you will get a lot of enjoyment out of but would not break the bank. 

Bird feeder 

Bird feeders are great for bringing little friends from all over to your backyard. Even better than how easy it is to create feeders yourself is how inexpensive it can be. For this project you do not need more than an old plastic soda bottle, two wooden cooking spoons, a tiny screw eye, some string and bird food. Take the bottle and cut a pair of holes across from each other on one level. You want these just wide enough that you can slide a wooden spoon in and it can remain, but poke one a bit bigger to let some food spill out. This will be the side you want your spoon head coming out of. Do the same thing just below it and insert your other spoon, then the food. Screw your screw eye into the soda bottle top and hook the string through it. Tie it off with a knot and hang your new feeder in a place where you will be able to greet all of your little visitors.

Blog post

One inexpensive project that could actually earn you money this summer is starting your own blog. Especially if you have something that inspires you or that you are passionate about, your own blog will give you the freedom to discuss it, share regular updates, and engage with a variety of different people from diverse backgrounds who may hold similar interests. You can adorn the pages of your site however you see fit and get creative with your posts and the topics you discuss. And if you are feeling a little uninspired one day, you can invite fans of the site or other bloggers to provide guests posts discussing agreed upon topics from their perspectives. And even if blogging does not become an everyday habit as it is for some, it is still a fun and creative way to express yourself. 

Place mats

Making place mats is a great starter project for those who are beginning to venture into sewing. The only materials you will need are two pieces of rectangular fabric, an iron, some scissors, a sewing machine, and some thread that can blend in with the color or the fabric or is coordinated with it. From there you will lay the fabric pieces on top of each other so that the patterned sides face each other. Sew the pieces together, making sure you are sewing straight and giving your machine a ½ inch seam allowance. Be sure to leave tiny hole(3-4 in) as you sew so that you will be able to later to flip the placemat inside out. Once it is sewed up you can either snip the corners with your scissors or leave it as is. From there you will flip the mat right side out and iron it to get it to lay flat. From there, go back through and sew the entirety of the mat once more with a ¼ inch seam allowance and you will have yourself a new mealtime companion.   

Mason jar lights 

Mason jars come in several varieties, but the quaint and subtle appearance of smaller jars can transform your backyard deck or patio into a warm space perfect for summer nights. To get started on this project, all you need are several mason jars, wire clothing hangers, flameless LED candles, some small wire cutters, and some needle nose pliers. Be sure to wear something over your eyes to protect them before shaping the hangers. From there you are going to use the pliers to cut foot long segments of the hanger. Use the needle nose plier to create a loop in the middle of the segment. Once that is done, you will wrap it around the mason jar and finish off the other end with a loop. With the other straight hanger segment, you will curve it into a U with smaller inward curves at either end. These shapes will be slid into the initial loops created around the jar, making a handle for it. From there, insert the LED candles and find a nice place to hang your new outdoor light fixture.
  
Pail Lanterns

This is quick and easy project that is sure to brighten up your summer. All it requires is a small to medium sized tin pail, along with a candle or a flameless LED light, whichever you want to use. Using a hammer and a nail or a hand drill if you are more comfortable with that, simply begin punching tiny holes throughout the pail. Start by spreading them out to see if you want slightly fewer holes and go back in and add more if you desire. Once everything is to your liking, simply insert the candle or light into the pail and find a place for your new lantern. Smaller sized lanterns are great for providing light on the table, while slightly larger ones can be placed within the yard. Using lanterns or other self-sustaining sources of light are a great way to give your home an inviting ambiance and also saving on lighting at the same time. 

Tie Dye Shirt

To get started with this classic summertime activity, all you will need is a white shirt (preferably cotton to help the dyes show up better), a basic tie dye kit that can be purchased for about $15, something to bind the shirt like large rubber bands, and a large plastic bag. Throw your shirt in the washer before you begin. You are going to want to skip drying it when it is done because you will need the fabric damp when it comes time to dye. What you will want to do with the wet shirt is twist it up and then bind it depending on the technique you want to use. From there, you will want to begin applying your dyes. When that is completed, cover the tie-dyed shirt with a plastic bag to help keep it damp. You will end up leaving it like that for several hours, as it is important to let the colors set in place. Once the time has passed, you can remove your shirt and begin sporting it off to the world. 

Bio: Douglas Keller has been a financial expert for 20 years, helping people reach financial stability. Today through he is writing on Payless Power, he continues to help others save money on their bills every month.

Floating Shelves: They Look Great And Double As An Additional Storage Space!

This post is provided by Matt.

If you have never seen floating shelves, you need to. They look amazing and they can transform your blank wall into a place where you can store extra items in your home. The best thing about these floating shelves is that they can be placed in any room in your home. You can choose from floating shelves that are one foot in size all the way up to whatever size you need, which makes them such a convenient option. 

Let’s take a look now at how floating shelves can improve your interior décor and double as additional storage space. 

Create A Unique Wall In Your Home

If you have been staring at that empty wall in your home and you have additional décor that could use a home, floating shelves are the perfect addition. In fact, you can choose from a variety of sizes to meet the needs of the space you have available. You can decorate that wall however you like without all of the hardware showing too. 

Solution For Your Books

If you love to read books, but have a hard time keeping that stack from tipping over, consider using the floating shelves to store your books and display them neatly. Once you are done with one book, simply put it back on the shelf and grab a new one. 

Floating shelves can double as a bookshelf in any room in your home, but would look great in the bedroom or even the sunroom. 

Create Space In The Bathroom 

You can create additional space in the bathroom and limit the amount of counterspace that you use up. For instance, you can place hand towels and bath towels on the shelves and your guests will be able to grab them as needed. You could also use the shelves to store other items such as bathroom décor pieces or your makeup or hair accessories. 

Use The Shelves In Between Spaces

You can use the floating shelves in between spaces within your home to add to a blank space. For example, if you have space in between two windows, you can add some floating shelves in between them to prevent the area from appearing to be boring. You can decorate the shelves however you would like to. Many people do like to place picture frames and memories from family events on these shelves as they can be displayed neatly. 

Floating Shelves Are A Great Addition To Any Home

Floating shelves look amazing in any home and they make a wonderful addition to the space you have available on your walls. You can use them for a variety of applications to include in the laundry room to store your laundry soap and dryer sheets or even in the garage. 

If you find that you simply have more decorations or books than you can fit on your shelves, you may want to consider renting a storage unit. This is a great option when you want to remove some clutter in your house. The floating shelves make great accents and can make a boring wall pop but if you overload them with dated décor or stacking things on them, they will look messy and cluttered. Make your home look great today with the proper use of floating shelves!