How Baskets And Other Materials To Decorate
by Arlene Cesta
http://www.rcbasket.com
Are the kids tearing up your furniture to the point that the
thought of getting new furniture scares you? Is that new
dining room set out of the question? Fear not, friend,
there may be a solution.
If you thought that having a family meant putting your
decorating skills and ideas on the back burner then you
just haven't been opening your eyes to the stylish ideas
designers use to liven up their own homes and their
client's homes, even with children (and pets) around!
There are some amazing materials available. Just choosing
the right material can make all the difference when
furnishing a home for a family.
How about leather? It looks great and minor spills can be
easily wiped clean. It's tough and wears well and, as an
added bonus, begins to look better as it ages. Got pets?
Leather will not collect pet hair like other materials will.
Plus, dirt can be easily wiped off.
One of my favorites is the use of wicker and baskets. You
can use wicker furniture and add some baskets for keeping
magazines and assorted items. A basket will set off a
wicker chair or table very nicely. Also, be sure to use
baskets for your hanging plants.
If your preference is upholstery, ultrasuede may be a great
option. It looks luxurious but is very easy to care for.
It won't fade or stain like other fabrics and many stains
can be removed with a damp cloth.
If you have children or pets, consider using slipcovers to
protect your furniture. Many decorators use them to protect
or hide everyday wear and tear by using a stripe or other
pattern. They are easily removed for more formal use and
can be easily cleaned and re-applied.
Some things to stay away from include silk and velvet. They
tend to stain easily and are difficult to clean.
Area rugs can be very effective if you have carpeting in a
light shade. Just be sure that they lay flat on your
existing carpet. Also, area rugs can be used over a hard
surface such as hardwood. Be sure to use a special padding
underneath to prevent slipping.
When choosing wood furnishings, light or dark, be sure it
has a protective clear coat so that marks and spills do not
ruin the finish.
Would your children really mind an 'adult' space in the
home? If you make most of the home child-friendly, then it
is not outside of reason to create one area specifically
for adult entertaining or relaxing. Giving children a small
area within the adult room where they can read books or sit
at a small table for quiet games will teach them to respect
and take care of nice things. This, along with making
reasonable choices for the rest of the home, allows all in
the family to enjoy their surroundings and each other.
Submit An Article
|
|
|
