Nothing is quite as relaxing and intimate as a Tuscan style kitchen.  The look is warm and inviting, rich and filled with natural elements.  Whether you are building a new home or simply want to give new life to an older kitchen, you will find this decor theme beautiful and comfortable.

Many families spend more time in the kitchen than they do in the family or living room.  For this reason, you want your kitchen to be as relaxing and appealing as possible.  The tips below will help bring a taste ofItalyto your kitchen.

Earthy colors – the basis of all things Tuscan

The colors typically found in a Tuscan themed custom kitchen include those found in nature.  Olive green, terra cotta, chocolate brown and of course wine shades, since grape vines and wine bottles are essential in this style of decorating.

You can use any variation of these colors depending on your preferences; just remember that the colors should closely mimic those you find outdoors, perhaps even in a vineyard.

Furnishings are rustic and solid

Wrought iron and rough-hewn wood are typically found in the Tuscan kitchen; the look is old and elegant.  A heavy rustic wood table decorated with a Tuscan inspired tablecloth is warm and inviting.

If your kitchen is large enough, consider an antique wood pie safe or an old wooden table as a center island used for chopping and other tasks.

Wrought iron is an essential element of the Tuscan style kitchen.  Chandeliers, wine racks, even a wrought iron pot holder hanging from the ceiling add charm and old-world atmosphere.

As far as cabinetry goes, consider glass front doors or no doors at all.  This will allow you to add decor and color to the room through spices and oils, ceramic dishes, colorful plates and all of those goodies you normally keep behind closed doors.  This look is what makes the Tuscan kitchen so rich and appealing.

Stone, pottery and other essentials

To achieve the most authentic look in a Tuscan kitchen, consider stone floors or stone-like ceramic tiles.  Clay pottery, bronze, wrought iron and other natural elements bring the look to life, and add further to the natural appeal of a Tuscan themed kitchen.

Wrought iron drawer handles add additional depth to the look.  Terra cotta pots filled with natural herbs like basil, rosemary and oregano are essential for an authentic Italian kitchen.

Spice up the walls

The wall decor is central to the Tuscan style kitchen.  Wrought iron accents, wine and grape prints, even hammered copper pots and pans hang on the walls, lending to the intimate atmosphere and ambiance of the room.  This is clearly a room that is well used.

Wrought iron candle sconces are a nice touch as well; consider hanging them on both sides of a beautifully crafted vineyard scene.

Soft, ambient lighting is another essential in the Tuscan kitchen.  Try to avoid bright fluorescent lights, opting for a warm glow that offers an intimate feeling to the room.

Bringing a bit ofItalyto your kitchen isn’t hard; look through magazines and online for more ideas that will help you transform your kitchen in to a show place.  For a warm, inviting atmosphere that draws everyone to the kitchen, nothing beats Tuscan decor.

Decorating a dining room so that it is appealing and original can be a challenge.  You know the basics; a dining room table and chairs, perhaps a buffet or hutch.  How can you add personality to your dining room and make it appealing regardless of whether the look you are after is elegant, sleek or traditional?  The tips below will help you design a dining room that is comfortable, relaxing and gets noticed.

Consider your furnishings first

It’s essential that you take your furniture in to account when decorating your dining room.

If the look you are after requires new furnishings, consider your budget.  It is difficult, if not impossible, to create a country or Tuscan look if you have a contemporary dining room set.

Traditional furniture offers you the most flexibility in decorating as you can dress it up or down to suit your needs.  If you have yet to purchase dining room furniture, carefully consider the theme you intend to use before buying.

Walls, windows and other elements to consider

When decorating a dining room, consider the style you want to achieve.  For example, an elegant or formal dining room often looks beautiful when rich, deep colors and heavy window treatments are used.

If you prefer a cottage chic or country look, window treatments are light and breezy.  Use neutral and lighter colors on walls, floors and other decor.

An elegant chandelier adds a dramatic touch to a formal dining room.  If you prefer a more casual look, consider shopping for lighting fixtures and even a country or cottage styled lamp for the buffet.

When decorating the walls, consider the larger picture.  A light colored paint works well for cottage or country appeal, while deeper shades of burgundy or apricot are perfect for an elegant or formal dining room.  Also consider a chair rail or wainscoting for added depth.

Accessories complete the look

No room looks complete without the right accessories.

In an elegant dining room, a large portrait or dramatic mirror placed above the buffet is the perfect touch.  If the look you want to achieve is modern, a dramatic piece of abstract or geometric art adds color and impact.

In the country or traditional dining room, shelves displaying crockery, candles, plants and even family photos are a nice touch.

The right centerpiece for the dining room table is a must!  In a modern theme, consider a sculptural center piece designed using twisted branches; the country look calls for an old pitcher filled with colorful wildflowers.

If you desire additional color and pattern for the floor, consider a large area rug that fits under the table; make sure that edges will not interfere with moving chairs in or out.

Decorating a dining room is not as hard as it may seem, especially when you consider the furniture first.  Put these tips and ideas to work in your dining room, and transform it from ordinary to extraordinary.

Decorating the walls in your home can be a challenge.  Without something special, a large wall tends to look stark.  A room with blank walls lacks personality and depth.  If you’re having a hard time coming up with ideas on how to transform your boring walls in to colorful, artistic walls, these ideas will help.

Paint isn’t what it used to be

Long gone are the days when you used a brush and roller to paint the walls a single color such as cream or off-white.

Today, paint can create a multitude of looks from textured and rich to country cottage chic.  Whether your home is decorated in modern, Victorian, traditional or country decor, you can spice up the walls easily with a little paint and creativity.

Paint walls a base color which complements the decor of the room, then go back and use sea sponges dipped in another color and randomly splotch the walls.  Rag rolling and feather dusting are great for this technique as well.

There are also a variety of textured wallpapers available to you.  Just apply one to the walls and then give it a coat of paint after it dries.  Depending on your decorating theme, there are also faux finishes and metallic paints available.

Wallpaper dresses up a room

Wallpaper isn’t what you remember from decades ago; today’s varieties add texture, bold designs and plenty of color.

If you have a painted wall, simply add wallpaper to either the bottom or top section of the wall.  Bold stripes, geometric patterns and soft floral designs add color and appeal to the walls.  Choose your colors and patterns according to the decorating theme of the room.

Wainscoting adds old fashioned charm

Wainscoting is a method in which you simply apply strips of wood to the bottom portion of a wall.  Beadboard is another option you may want to consider.  Applying grooved strips of wood from baseboard up to the height of about 3 feet gives walls a comfortable, cozy look and appeal.

The great thing about beadboard or wainscoting is that you can have the wood stained, or paint it any color you like and even “wear” it a bit by sanding or whitewashing if you enjoy a worn, rustic look.

Wall accents

There is a lot more to decorating a beautiful wall than simply hanging a few pictures.  Colorful texture makes a room appear warm and inviting.

Consider richly textured tapestries, or even a large oriental or contemporary rug for the wall, depending on your decor.  A large swath of fabric hung from a wall using push pins also makes a bold and unique statement.  A large oval or square accent mirror surrounded by flowing fabric is unique and stunning.

If you’re artistic and creative consider painting murals on the walls of your home.  This is a technique that is especially charming in the kid’s bedrooms.  Stenciling is easy as well.  Use stencils around the top portion of a wall next to the ceiling or around chair rails as a beautiful accent.

Without the proper decor, walls can make a room look like a box.  Put some of these wall decorating ideas to use in your own home, and create rooms that are warm, appealing and filled with life.

A country cottage style bathroom is the perfect blend of country and light airy floral elements.  Many of the items found in this type of decorating offer vintage appeal; the look is charming and old-fashioned, the perfect place to relax in a hot bubble bath after a long day.

Whether you have a large decorating budget or barely any budget at all, you can create the look in your own bathroom with these easy tips.

Warm up the walls

The right walls are essential to creating the country cottage style bathroom.  If your walls are simple painted sheet rock, you can easily transform the look.

Use beadboard (a special paneling designed with a distinctive grooved pattern) to dress up the walls.  Hardwoods create an authentic country look.  Just run beadboard panels from the baseboards to about half way up the wall, then paint using those soft pastel colors often found in a cottage chic decor such as cream, soft yellow or sage green.

Vintage style fixtures set the mood

In a country cottage style bathroom, the fixtures make all of the difference.  If your budget allows, purchase a pedestal sink and claw foot tub to lend an authentic look to the room.  You can often find bargains at antique malls and flea markets if your budget is tight.

If you cannot afford a claw foot tub, the pedestal sink alone will give the bathroom old-fashioned appeal.

Light and airy is the look – windows and mirrors make an impact

If you have a window (or windows) in your bathroom, avoid using dark colored window treatments.  Light, gauzy sheers enhance the look and allow plenty of natural light to spill into the room.  If you love the look of wood, and interior shutter-style window treatment works well – make sure you use a light color such as white or cream.

An etched Venetian mirror also helps to add a light, airy feeling to the room, especially when placed across from a window where it will reflect light.

Floral accents and wicker complete the look

Floral accents are a huge element in cottage chic decorating.  Plush towels designed using floral accents coordinate with walls; a floral arrangement atop a round white-washed wicker table adds charm and a feminine touch.  An old wooden chair that has been white-washed is the perfect accent for a corner; stack plush washcloths, towels and other linens that complement the decor.

A small crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling adds a touch of romance; wrought iron accessories blend well with vintage elements and wicker.

You can picture the country cottage bathroom in your mind easily; comfortable country blends perfectly with light, airy cottage chic elements.  Put these tips and ideas to work in your bathroom, and see how easy it is to indulge all of your senses after a long day at work.  Just for a few minutes, escape the kids and the worries of the world.

Not all that long ago homeowners wouldn’t dare mix patterns and colors in any way that wasn’t traditional.  Neutral colors were, for the most part, bland and lacked personality.  Today, all of the rules are out the window when it comes to decorating your home!  Rich textures, contrasting patterns and lots of color create rooms that are filled with personality and dimension.

There are still a few rules, but not too many.  If you’re ready to turn your dull home into an extraordinary showplace, here are a few tips for decorating with these various elements.

Consider room size when choosing patterns

Take the size of the room in to account when deciding on the patterns you want to use.  Large patterns can look overwhelming in a small room; for example, a large floral print on furniture upholstery tends to look garish.  For smaller rooms stick to small and medium sized patterns.

In contrast, large rooms look better with patterns that are medium to large in size.  Small prints can get lost in a large room; a small print often looks like a solid color from across the room in an area that is open and spacious.

Colors liven things up

It’s fine to have neutral colored walls and even furnishings, but color is what brings a room to life.  Consider bold splashes of color in throw pillows, rugs, wall hangings, vases, curtains and other accents so as to add interest and appeal to the room.

When using color, use those you love most but stick to three basic shades so that the look is coordinated and not confusing.

How to mix patterns and textures

If you think back a few years, it’s very likely that you never saw plaid patterns, stripes and floral designs mixed in the same room at your mother’s or grandmother’s house – it just wasn’t done!

Today, designers know that mixing stripes and floral patterns or plaids and solids makes for a look that is bold, elegant or even country chic, depending on what you are striving for.

It is perfect acceptable – and even encouraged – that you use stripes and checks or stripes and floral patterns together, as long as all of the pieces contain some of the same color.  For example, if your color scheme includes burgundy, blue and cream shades you would want all patterned items to contain a single one of these colors such as burgundy.  A burgundy and blue striped throw pillow will look divine when paired with a floral pillow that contains the same shade of burgundy.

Use a varied array of texture in the room; nubby rugs or accent pillows stand out even more against smooth or satiny surfaces.

Don’t be afraid to mix it up a bit when it comes to patterns, color and texture.  By combining all of these elements, your rooms will make an impact that is not soon forgotten by all who enter your home.

Nothing is quite as inviting and comfortable as a 1940′s style retro kitchen.  The look is quite easy to achieve, and the blend of all things vintage and modern makes for an appearance that is original and appealing.  The warmth such a room exudes makes for a kitchen and dining area that is comfortable, relaxing, and beautiful; the perfect blend of modern and old-time charm.

Choosing the right colors is essential

The colors from the 1940′s style kitchen are what make it so recognizable today in magazines, books and other media.  Crimson red, white, yellow and “jadeite” or a gray-toned blue are the colors that were most often used in these homey kitchen of the past.

Be aware that not just any shade of blue will work with the 1940′s look; there are dozens of colors today that would be called “blue”, but what you are looking for here is a Slate or Midnight blue, a shade that is a bit more muted than some of the colors you will find today.

Furnishings for the retro kitchen

For the dining table, a vintage style dinette or wooden style table complete with enamel top are perfect.  Cabinetry may be wood that is painted white, off-white or cream; glass knobs add further to the retro appeal.

Other furnishings you may want to consider for the dining room are a square, an oval or rectangular retro diner table; many of these have chrome-plated deco legs, much like you find at many old-time diners even today.

If you cannot afford a vintage style dinette set, cover the table you currently have with a vintage table cloth.

Add color with accents and gadgets

Since the basic colors of 1940′s vintage style decorating revolve around white or off-white, count on accessories, rugs and other gadgets to add a splash of color.

Consider open cabinets, so that you can display old dishes or other colorful collectibles.  If you collect jadeite dishes, put them on display.

Red kitchenware gadgets are perfect for adding vibrant color.  Vintage linens add texture and color; consider a fruit theme if you need more color.  Place a fruit bowl in the center of the table, and consider metal wall hangings embellished with fruit designs.

The curtains you choose for the windows can have a further impact on the finished look of the kitchen.  If you cannot find vintage curtains, make them yourself using dish towels or even a table cloth that blends with the colors you have chosen.

Old-fashioned canisters, bread boxes, toasters – most of the old appliances which you need to bring the look together can be found at antique malls.  Check garage sales and flea markets as well – you never know when you will find a treasure that is perfect for your vintage kitchen!

While you may think that your appliances will clash because of their modern look, this actually makes the whole combination even more appealing.  If you have the budget and simply want to re-do the entire room including appliances, look for those that have a retro look or chrome finish.

In today’s modern and busy world, it’s often comforting to come home after a hard day to a home that takes you back in time.  Get started on your 1940′s vintage style kitchen today!

Most patios are quite boring – a concrete slab that is void of decoration and color.  Spring is coming up soon, and barbecue’s will be firing up all over the neighborhood.   Why not transform your patio in to a charming “outdoor room”, perfect for entertaining guests or just relaxing?

Here are a few tips that will help you create a warm, inviting space that offers privacy and relaxation.

Natural elements create a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere

Two things you need to consider when creating your outdoor room from an existing patio – natural stones and plenty of greenery.

Consider paving the concrete with natural stones, or creating “walkways” through your patio using stone.  Set greenery around the perimeter of your patio in clay or ceramic pots, or consider two or three trellises filled with climbing vines to help seclude your patio from the outside world.

Think of your patio as an “outdoor” living room

In order for your patio to be its most beautiful and relaxing, the right furniture is a must.  Wicker is a good choice if you like a natural garden atmosphere.  Webbed or plastic lawn chairs just won’t do when you are creating a showplace!

You can also find many styles, fabrics, and designs which will help create any decor theme you like.  Bold stripes, bright floral patterns and vibrant solid colors allow you to design any look you like.  Most outdoor furniture is constructed of weather-proof materials, so you won’t have to worry about moisture damage or fading.

Rugs offer additional color and texture

Rugs are another element of decorating that help add a warm touch and contribute texture to your patio.  Unlike the old outdoor rugs that were mostly constructed of rubber or looked a bit like Astroturf, the rugs available for outdoor use today range from hand knotted oriental rugs and contemporary styles to braided rugs.

For a striking look, arrange the largest pieces of patio furniture around a large area rug.  This makes for an intimate, cozy setting that is perfect for guests.

Room “dividers” separate areas of larger patios

If your patio is large, you may want to create separate areas; one for cooking and barbecuing, the other for relaxing.  To separate one area from another, consider old wooden shutters that are on the tall side, or even decorative screens.  The wooden shutters can be painted any color you like, or even stenciled for a dramatic effect.

Accents are what really set the look apart.  Consider hanging lanterns and candles for an ambient atmosphere.  Lanterns can also be set on tables or wooden benches or anywhere that provides the right amount of light and is out of the reach of small children.

Outdoor fire pits and chimineas are another great idea for the patio.  Not only are they beautiful and decorative, they will provide a bit of warmth on those chilly early summer evenings.

It’s easy to transform your patio into a beautiful extension of your home.  Try some of these ideas, and use your imagination to come up with a few unique ideas of your own.

You want your bedroom to be beautiful, relaxing and comfortable.  If you’re tired of the current look but cannot afford a complete remodel, there are many affordable, small touches you can add that make a noticeable impact.  This article offers a few tips and ideas to help make your tired bedroom a beautiful, relaxing retreat that you will enjoy; whether reading, watching television or slumbering.

Add color to the focal point of the room – the bed!

Dressing up your bed is easy, and you can do it without spending more than your budget can handle.

Make throw pillows yourself!  This can easily be accomplished with felt or any other fabric you like, scissors, fiberfill and a needle and thread.  Simply cut out any patterns you like (square, round, etc.), sew together with what will be the outside of the pillow facing together, and leave a 4 inch section open so that you can stuff the pillow with fiberfill.

Once you have completed your pillows, you can embroider, stencil or add appliqués to give them additional personality and color.

Have a boring lamp on your nightstand?

Lamps are easy to transform; in fact, you can do so much to a lamp that anyone who sees it would never think it was the same lamp you had before.

If your lampshade is a solid color or white, consider painting it or gluing a boldly patterned piece of fabric to the shade!  This is easy to do.

Once you have your lampshade covered with fabric or painted, glue crystals, beads, lace or anything else that lends to your decor to the shade.  You can even string beads so that they hang in a fringe-type fashion around the perimeter of the lamp.

If the base of your lamp is crafted of wood, paint it a different color which still matches your decor.  If you like a rustic or worn look, whitewash the lamp or sand around the edges slightly for a distressed look.

Throw in a couple of new rugs

Rugs can dramatically transform the look of a room, and the bedroom is no exception.  Whether you like rag rugs, braided rugs or hand-knotted oriental rugs, the options are endless.

Do you prefer soft, subdued colors or bright bold patterns? Rugs can take your floor from drab to colorful and warm.  Don’t hog all of the rugs for the floor – throw one on the wall to create a unique focal point!

Buy an affordable throw for the bed at one of the big-box stores, add some storage bins under the bed to remove the clutter from the dresser and night stand, and your bedroom takes on a whole new look!

Crafting your own curtains, refinishing your current bedroom furniture, adding a new mirror above the dresser – there are dozens of things you can do to freshen up the decor of your bedroom without spending hundreds or thousands of dollars!

Rugs are an integral part of your decorating scheme.  Used correctly, rugs of various styles can add class, grace, warmth and a splash of color to any home.  When it comes to decorating a home, many people think only of walls and furnishings – but floors have a lot to do with the way the room looks when completed!

With the wrong floor coverings, what would be a beautiful room ends up looking incomplete or even stark.  Here are a few tips which explain how certain types of rugs can dress up the rooms in your home.

Hand-knotted Oriental rugs
Oriental and Persian rugs are often hand-knotted by skilled artisans who take pride in their craft.  It may take up to two years for a craftsman to complete one rug!  Many are crafted of wool and silk, and painstakingly knotted by hand.

These rugs come in a variety of designs, colors and sizes to complement any decor theme.  Whether you are looking to add an elegant look to your home, or need bold, geometric designs for contemporary pizzazz, handmade rugs are perfect and often kept as family heirlooms.

The nice thing about hand woven rugs is that they are extremely durable and of the highest quality.  From small sizes that are perfect for an entry way or corner to area size rugs that cover a huge portion of the floor in a living room, these rugs offer “art” for your home.  Since many are crafted of wool, they are also flame retardant and free of allergens which can cause health issues for some family members.

Many of these Oriental and Persian rugs are crafted in Pakistan, Iraq, Turkey and other areas, then imported to rug galleries who inspect them closely for quality and flaws.  While most are a big investment, those who purchase these rugs feel they are well worth it since many last for decades and even centuries.

Braided rugs
Braided rugs have been around forever, and are just as popular today as they were 30 years ago. Typically used in country or traditional style homes, these rugs are designed for beauty and are the perfect way to add a down-home, comfortable touch to any room.

Braided rugs come in various colors and sizes; while most are oval shaped and oblong, you will find large varieties that are perfect when placed under an intimate furniture arrangement.

Smaller sizes work well in bedrooms and kitchens.  Braided rugs may be placed on both sides of a bed to add warmth to the floor during those cold winter months!

In the kitchen, consider smaller braided rugs placed on the floor in front of the sink, and in front of an entrance door if you have one coming in to the kitchen or dining room area.

Don’t waste all of your rugs on the floor – many make dramatic wall decor as well!  A large hand-knotted Oriental rug placed on a wall creates a colorful focal point for the room.

Never underestimate the power of rugs when it comes to decorating your home.  Floors need color; not only are rugs exquisitely beautiful, they also help to protect your floors from wear.

No other style of decorating offers a warm, comfortable atmosphere in addition to the charming beauty associated with country decorating.  Even in the modern times in which we live, country decorating holds a special place in the heart of many people who grew up in a rural setting or on a farm.

Whether you live in the middle of a bustling city or in the country, you can recreate the look of a decade ago, adding charm and character to your living room.

Choose a color scheme first
Before you start deciding on accents, curtains and other elements of the room, decide what colors you want to use.  It’s best to stick to three colors so that the look is balanced, with one color being the dominant color for the room.

Country colors range from cream and pale red or rusty shades to country blues and brown tones, shades of orange, warm yellow and forest green.

Warm up the walls with a rustic touch
Some people use a wainscoting technique for the walls.  This simply means that you will use a different element for the bottom half of the wall than what is used on the top half.

Rough boards create a rustic look and add texture.  Run the boards vertically up the wall to a point that is about 3 to 3 1/2 feet from the floor.  Use nails to put the boards on the wall instead of glue; if you ever decide to remove the boards, nails will leave far less damage than glue.

Top the boards off with a pine board that is 2 x 4 inches, running horizontally across the top of the vertical boards.  For a country look, stain the boards in a light pine or oak stain.  Paint the remainder of the wall, up to the ceiling, with the color of your choice.

Stick with wood or tile for floors
Carpeting doesn’t lend itself to an authentic country look.  For real country style appeal, choose hardwood flooring or tile in a rustic finish.

While you want the wood floors or tile to be on display, throw rugs are a must for adding warmth and a splash of color in country decorating.  Braided rugs are perfect for this use, and come in a wide range of sizes and colors.  Scatter them around randomly for a relaxed, comfortable look.

Decorative accents can add country flair to almost any type of furniture
While it is best if you can afford country style furniture, there are things you can do to make your current furniture take on a more countrified look and feel.

If you can afford to buy new furniture, stick to wood or leather when possible.  Wood arms combined with floral upholstery are common in a country themed home.  Wood accent and end tables help complete the look.

Now, for a few simple tricks to give any style furniture that country look.  Large crocheted doilies placed on the arms of a chair or couch add an old-fashioned touch.  Toss a few country-themed throw pillows in the mix, and your furniture has transformed to country!  There are also a huge number of fitted slip-covers available that you can use to entirely cover your furniture, giving it a whole new look.

When it comes to accents for the walls, country decor often leans toward a farm or western theme, using old items that look like they are “gently” worn.  Old-fashioned kitchen implements such as small iron skillets, rolling pins, small barn tools, saws, old farm pictures and other items all give new life to bare walls and add warmth.

Decorating your home in old-style country is easy!  Put these tips and ideas to use in your home, and you may find that this is the most comfortable, welcoming environment you have ever come home to after a long hard day.