Hot New Rug Design Style

How beautifully chic is this…what a great new spin on the traditional rug. This Bisanzio tile mosaic rug from Sicis enhances the style and beauty of any living space. This new design element can be best described as exciting, interesting and texturally alluring. The glass mosaic reflects a light on the surface that conveys a touch of elegance that makes these innovative rugs unique. These colored glass mosaic tiles has a luxurious look. Initially when you look at the glass tile rugs they appear to be like the traditional rugs were accustomed to but only after a closer look the complete effect of the precious glass is revealed. This eye trick is due to the classic designs and patterns that we are use to. These durable inventive rugs are also ideal for any bathroom or entrance way.

Heighten Your Shower Style

I know I often discuss one of my favorite design styles “Shabby Chic” however; I'm an Aficionada of numerous other design styles as well. I sometimes veer towards the modern designs that are more prominent from time to time. I particularly love when I see a space that has an eclectic feel. I’m also keen on spaces that do a great job of mixing the old in with the new. Here Antonio Lupi takes modern shower doors that are often plain, and added a wonderful print that I feel says old world. This shower door is visually pleasing yet provides privacy. I must say that this is quite a chic innovation.

Creating a Chic Cottage Getaway

MyHomeIdeas.com has a wonderful slide show that shows you eight ways to add charm to your chic cottage. Don’t have a cottage? Don’t worry; you can simply make your space look like one. Many of these redesign tips are quite affordable and can add the allure your space was in need of. Remember its all about the details, the themes, the right pop of color and perfectly selected accents and accessories. Keep these in mind when seeking to enhance or transform any décor.

Inspiration for a Shabby Chic Motif

You hired the building contractors and the work is successfully completed to your standards. Now it’s time to put your personal style stamp on things. The Shabby Chic style is surely a Design Chic favorite. This design element has a sheer romantic elegance and is considered to be ultra posh. You cannot think of Shabby Chic without Rachel Ashwell coming to mind. She has brought this decorating style to the forefront like no other through her appearances on HGTV. If you like the look of this beautiful European vintage style, then you have a few options as to achieving this pristine look. Rachel Ashwell has an official online store at shabbychic.com or enjoy her Simply Shabby Chic collection at Target’

There are other thrifty ways as I mentioned before to achieving this look such as garage sales, thrift, vintage or antique shops. These are great places to look for unique furniture or accessories on a budget. I have also added below a few online links that can be used for key pieces, finishing touches or design ideas.

For Shabby Chic and cottage style decorating check out: Not too shabby while on the site be sure to check out their photo gallery for some decorating inspiration. If you’re looking for a shabby chic gift or accessories visit the old painted cottage.

….Next post I will have more Shabby Chic inspired links.

Reinventing Space for a Path to a New You

It’s a brand New Year once again. It’s that time again for kicking off New Year’s Resolutions. A time to consider how to re-design or morph into a new improved you. As you work on improving self, you may want to make a few changes or updates to improve your surroundings. A change in your surroundings will bring a fresh new aura that is sure to aide in igniting the new you. So now that you have your resolutions list in order and you plan of action covered, consider enhancing your surrounding ambiance with a few of these redesign tips:

Spruce up worn upholstered furniture with updated slipcovers.

Renew wooden furniture by staining or painting a new color

Rejuvenate an old scratched table by a mosaic tile pattern.

Brighten things up a bit by adding extra lighting or tone down with soft lighting.

Inspire yourself and others with wonderful abstract art or vintage oil paintings.

Revitalize your space with pleasant scents such as oil infused fragrances, fresh flowers or scented candles.

Transform your space with a themed or color coordinated décor by adding pillows, new window treatment, area rug and room accessories.

As you work towards recreating your space, the new you will have a clear path to come through.

Redesign Chic...Oh So Shabby Chic!

When putting a look that is considered a bit shabby but never short on chic then, it’s always good to use Asian/French inspired design patterns such as Brocade, Damask, Jacquard and Toile in your décor. These inspired design patterns always gives a look that’s stylish and seamless. Shabby Chic is a style that is often used of late and is considered a feminine and romantic style of decorating. A lot of the elements used are French/Victorian inspired. This decorative style can give your space a cottage like style or feel. Although this style has been around for sometime Rachel Ashwell made the term a la mode. Rachel now designs high end furniture, bedding and accessories through her company called, what else but “Shabby Chic”.

Shabby Chic is all about incorporating vintage pieces in a more ccontemporary way. Due to the vintage theme, shopping at garage sales and flea markets are a great way to find beautiful pieces. Often a lot of white, nudes and very soft pinks and blues are used in this design element. The furniture used is often grand and cozy with charming pillows for the right touch.

Elements such as painted wood, metals and accessories with a crystal or a lace touch.. A vintage chandelier is often the right touch or centerpiece for your Shabby Chic spce. Keep in mind when creating your space things to not have to match or appear perfect. There is no need for sets here. Don’t be afraid to mix the china up a bit. Incorporate romantic roses, vintage paintings that speak love. Shabby Chic gives vintage accents new life and new function and purpose. It's a style that makes you feel pretty and complete. Shabby Chic is what Redesign Chic is all about. Shabby Chic is hot and oh so oh la la!

Choosing Your Ideal Builder Part II

Here are some vital steps to take when researching and selecting a Builder:

1. Seek Professional Recommendations: Contact your local Home Builders Associations that regulate homebuilders and ensure the use good business practices. This a great place to find a Builder who has agreed to support the standards upheld by the Home Building Association. It is good to find a Builder that has a good reputation among other builders as well as their clients. The Home Builders Association will not be able to make a legal recommendation however; they can refer you to Builders based on your search criteria and point you in the right direction.

2. Word of Mouth/Testimonials: It’s always good to ask around and hear testimonials from people who currently are remodeling/building or have had a home remodeled or built. Listen to their experiences, did everything go smoothly and in a timely manner, were there just a few hiccups along the way or were there some major catastrophes or nightmares during the building process. It is testimonies or advice such as this that is vital when making ones decision.

3. Review Track Records: A good thing to do is look around and see which Builders are building the most homes in your area. Finding a Builder who has been around for some time is also a key indication of stability, a Builder you can trust with building your ultimate dream home. Look into which awards were given to specific Builders for their outstanding work. Sometimes these Builders rates may be a tad bit higher but you have a greater chance of having your dream home meeting your standards and expectations.

4. The Interview and Selection: After researching and hearing about the different Builders in your area it is now time to make your selection. Use the information you have compiled from the previous steps. Narrow down your choices to a final three if need be. Set up consultations with your final three and interview them each. This should not obligate you to use their services in any way. This is their moment to convince you why they would the best choice verses their competition. Take notes and review whose concepts best match your criteria and your building needs.
Beware of any pressure tactics that could be used in order to get you to make the decision now. This is not a decision that should be made hastily. There are many important factors to consider when you make your final choice. It is better to take your time and be certain you have found the Home Builder or Remodeler that is right for you. Be sure to feel good about your selection. Remember this is your dream home, your vision and your future.