Armchair - a short guide

First, lets answer the question - what armchair is? So armchair is very simply a chair with armrests. The chair is designed with a place to rest the arms. Although shapes, lines, and upholstery of the armchair can be very different - in this guide we well go through all available types.

Probably you don't know that but the idea of the armchair was developed for comfort. Before the popularity of the French fauteuil designs furniture was very stiff and hard with straight-edges. Furniture in the 18th century reflected more intricate designs, curved lines and comfort. Due to it popularity, armchair become a common addition to a living room, bedroom, or library.



Now, something about different styles of armchair. The traditional armchair design was initiated as a way to incorporate lounging into the design by softening edges and upholstery. An ever growing middle class sought more practical and comfortable furniture which influenced the design.

The fauteuil comfortable (comfortable armchair) grew in popularity in France and France quickly became a world leader and forerunner in the design of new furniture styles. A typical fauteuil is an armchair with open sides, exposed ornately carved wood and graceful curved lines.

The bergere style armchair also originated during this period. A bergere chair is an upholstered armchair with closed sides. The sides, back, and seat were all upholstered and the seat is wider and cushioned.

This wingback style of armchair was made popular in England. The wingback chair is taller than it is wide and has 2 side panels that extend from the back of the chair - in a winged shape. These panels connect to the closed-in arms. Originally, the wingback style was developed to protect delicate ladies from the heat of a fireplace.

The Queen Anne style armchair is a delicate version of the wingback chair. This type of chair has the same winged shape and extended side panels however the shoulders and the back of the chair droop slightly to give a design a more feminine look.

Last, but no least - the club chair that become popular in the early 20th century. It has a low backed, widely ample seat design and is most often completely upholstered in leather. This style of armchair was most typically found in English gentlemen’s clubs so this explains the name of the chair.

Perfect dining table - a short guide

The dining table is the focal point of almost every home, where whole family could gather. If you don't have one or need replacement you will probably want to buy a perfect one. So what do you need to look for? A dining table needs to be well crafted, have optimal size and allow to seat all your family members and guests. Here are some tips how to chose perfect dining table.

First of all you should select a dining table that is made of sturdy stuff. If you want a table to last many years you should choose a table made from a hardwood, such as mahogany, walnut or oak. Tables made from composite woods, which include plywoods and MDF are durable and economical but are never as strong as a hardwood. Hardwood is also a litte bit more expensive but for more money you get better quality.

Moreover, classic, wooden top in tableis great but don’t discount glass. The advantage of a glass-top dining table is that it works well with many decor themes. And because it has a reflective surface, it is an excellent choice for a space that might need to look a little bigger and brighter.

If your main goal is to impress your guests, you should chose marble table. Marble is a big investment, but this type of dining tables are nearly always showstoppers. Tables crafted from quality imported marble are extremely beautiful.

Next advise - choose a shape that will work in most rooms. Round tables look good in compact rooms and living areas that have square dining zones. They also offer flexible seating. On the other hand, rectangular tables have limited seating spots due to the position of the table legs and because only one person can be seated at each end.

Last but not least - the color. If you aren’t expecting your table to suffer wear and tear, choose the most sophisticated and elegant table in black color. But do it only if you are the careful type of person, otherwise go for natural color like brown.

How to decorate small kitchen - tips and tricks

You can turn your small kitchen into amazing place with these great decorating ideas and tips below.
First, don't believe what you've been told about small kitchens. They do indeed have the potential to charm as much as their larger counterparts.
Because visual clutter can minimize an already small space, approach your small kitchen design with the idea of keeping things simple. You can achive simplicity by keeping countertops clutter-free.

Also try to take advantage of unused space - we are talking about things like a bare wall, the alcove above the cabinetry or an empty window sill.
Uniformity also produces simplicity, you can use monochromatic color palette and start grouping similar items. For example, create visual continuity by pairing items lika a collection of decorative plates or a set of storage baskets.

As you may know, color plays an important role in decorating the kitchen. If you paint the room in a flattering tone-on-tone palette it will gives the impression of spaciousness. If you want to achive bold and unexpected design touch,  consider painting an accent wall in a vibrant hue. An attention-grabbing wall adds depth and style to your room.

Next important thing to remember, is to look up and assess your lighting situation. Although recessed and under-cabinet lights leave the smallest footprint in a small kitchen, a pair of pendant lamps above the center island or a trendy drum shade will give the kitchen a finished look.

Last but not least, remember that everything in a small kitchen must serve double-duty. Because of it cabinetry and shelves aren't just for storing dishes. With proper styling, floating shelves or glass-front cabinets are easily transformed into chic vignettes for treasures or a stack of cookbooks.
If storage space is limited, then for example bring a bookshelf to hold your kitchen essentials.

Tips for choosing sofa of your dreams

There are infinite options when it comes to choosing a sofa. You might think you know exactly what you want, but once you walk into a shop all the styles and shapes can become a little bit overwhelming. Here are some tips that will help you get a clear idea of what you want from your sofa.

First of all consider the size of your sofa. If you have a bigger living room, you'll need to make decision how much space your couch should fill. Maybe you want to include other couches or some chairs and coffee table? If so, a simple sofa, or one with L-shape is probably the best fit.
But if you're looking for a sofa that will be the focal point of your room, choose sofa in rounder shapes that take up a bit more space and provide a lot of seating for you and your guests.

On the contrary, if you have a small living room, you'll need a smaller sofa. With less space, any sofa is going to be in the spotlight. Because of this it's important to pick something that is practical, but also have unique design that complements the rest of the space.

Next important thing is to decide exactly how the sofa will be oriented. Successfully organizing a living space starts with analyzing your lifestyle. Ask youself a question - what do you do the most in that space? Do you like sitting in front of the TV? If so, make sure your couch faces that direction. Do you love hosting games ? Create a semi circle around a central coffe table.

Next, determine which shape will suit the room best. Now that you've decided your sofa's function, it's time to figure out which shape will help it fulfill that purpose. A clean L-shape is great for open areas that need to be divided, for example separating the living room from the dining room.

Research upholstery materials. Which will be best for you? Design is important, but functionality is key when it comes to choosing a material for your sofa. Maybe you want plush, white suede sofa which looks great but have some serious disadvantages, because suede can be a poor choice if you have pets or small children who will cause some damage.

Last but not least - pick a color. Upholstering furniture has become a relatively inexpensive option for anyone who wants to personalize a piece of furniture. So don't be afraid to do so if you want some exotic color or pattern.

How to pick paint color to your room - quick guide

Changing the colour of a room in your home can have a very positive effect on how the space looks and feels. But which color will be right for given room? It is difficult decision. Here are some advice about latest trends and how to choose perfect color.

Paint colours, like anything, tend to follow trends. Choosing a paint color that is popular in this season is a great way to display your design savvy and great taste.

You should also don't ignore floor colour, because it's the second largest surface to the walls in your home. Even wooden floors have own  shade that will effect how paint will look.

So which color should you choose? Deeper colours tend to suit cosier rooms such as the study and living room or bigger rooms with lots of light. On the other hand strong colours can be used in smaller amounts to bring depth and a focal point to any room. Unless you are looking to achieve a very clinical look, keep white color for bathroom only and always use a softer white for ceilings.

You also need to know that there is something like pscyhology of colour. Different colours have various effect on your mood. Certain colours - most commonly those found in nature - are very calming, which is why you often see neutral tones like pale blues in bedrooms and bathrooms. Green is the color of balance and growth so you could easily use it in kid's room. If you want to draw attention to certain room or spot, use red colour.

How to turn your garage into man cave

If for some reason your garage is empty an no one use it, you can transform it into an masculine room where a guy can kick back, enjoy a game with his friends and escape everyday life. Here are some design ideas how to do it.

First - wall colors. It is a great idea to use your favorite team sport colors on walls. Apply the darker team color to one wall and the lighter team color to remaining walls. Moreover stencil the numbers of favorite players or team stats on the stripe to add interesting detail.

Floors Standart cement floor may become a focal point when it's embellished with something like team or your university logo. Things like rubber, interlocking tiles can help insulate the room from extreme temperature and protect it from dampness.

Furnishing. A real man cave may be as elaborate or basic depending on your budget. A huge TV will become the heartbeat of your room. It can be mounted on a wall or placed on an special tv cabinet. Add some comfortable seating where the television easily can be viewed. Sofa or corner sofa will do the trick. Also theater-style chairs may be a good idea for your guests. Thins like fridge or microwave also come handy in real man cave.

And the most important thing - accessories. You need to personalize your man cave with favorite possessions. Frame some posters on walls with your favourite movie or music band. Details like neon lights illuminating a sport team logo add style to your mans cave. Also shelves can be installed where awards and trophies can be displayed.

Cheap and easy decorating ideas

Revamping your home decor don't always need to be a big deal and require lots of money. Here are some ways to give your rooms a fresh look in short time, without much effort. So lets start.

First of all, take down all your paintings and other art and move them around to different walls. Thanks to this it will create effect like you seeing them for the first time.

Next idea - create a gallery wall of family photos and other small pictures in matching frames, arranged in a collage on a wall in hallway.

Remember that small details make all the difference. Beautiful coasters, interesting desk frames, a small crystal vase filled with flowers will add a fresh look to your home.

Here is another thrick that can do wonders - change the lightbulb in your bedroom lamp with a pink one for a rosy, romantic glow.

You can alco replace your bathroom shower curtain and curtain hooks, for an instant freshener for even the most dingy bathroom.

It is also very important to maximize light in a darker room by hanging mirror directly opposite the window, so you can bring some light to your home by doing this.

And the last advice that is very simple - take a walk in the park or woods and pick up interesting seasonal accents for your home.