REPURPOSING YOUR CHRISTMAS DECOR FOR THE WHOLE YEAR

‎So, valentine's day have come and gone and I had lots of fun. Finally was able to give by hubby the gift he wanted most (thanks to you all who shared some gift ideas with me). I was chilling (can't remember where exactly) one hot evening, and was thinking that I hadn't posted anything on interior decor  in a very long time, so  I decided to check out the web for some inspiration. Of all the sites I visited, this one stood out to me - patiencebrewster.com. She is an artist and illustrator known for her unique Christmas ornaments, holiday decor and gifts.  ‎ Now this is totally new to me, but I always aspiring for something new was inspired by her to come up with creative ideas to repurpose Christmas decorations for use all year round, instead of packing them up till another Christmas. I have decided to do this for each month of the year, starting with this month, (though it's almost over).

For this month, the month of February, the month regarded by many if not all, as the of love. I have been brainstorming to come up with a creative idea for Valentine’s day. Redecorating in the shape of a HEART is what instantly comes to mind, but that one is already taken and a bit cliché. Going with a "V" seemed a little bit too obvious, even though a heart shape without the top part leaves us with a "V" too. I then thought about arranging the decorations in the alphabets that spell LOVE, making the V more pronounced to represent valentine. Finally, I decided to leave the proverbial "box" to think, guess what I came up with? 

I thought about synonyms, antonyms, homonyms and I came up with a homophone - Heart vs. Hat. You could redecorate in the shape of a Hat! What do you think of that? Crazy creative right? Well, if we weren't repurposing Christmas decorations, then you could use your hats (for those of us who have lots of hats) to decorate in the shape of a heart. As for what specific colours to use, that's easy. Valentine's day share some similarities in color with Christmas - red. Alright, that's all I could come up with for this month. Hope you love it.

Cheers

BOOK THEMED DECOR

Hello everyone, 

Today, I thought I should go back to my first love, the reason I even started blogging. I have neglected it for some time now,  in favour of fresher gist and I daresay, somewhat more interesting topics. I have felt like I've been cheating on my interior design readers. So today, I am here with a fresh themed decor idea. Do you love books so much, sometimes feel like being inside of the pages of the book your are reading? Well, guess what? today is your lucky day. I'll be writing about how to design your space to look like a book, a set of books or something out of a book. 

The idea of a book themed space first came to me when I saw a photo on pinterest, (the book staircase). I also realized that the theme has to be for book lovers or anyone who loves to read. Unlike the music themed decor, you may not be able to get the architectural design of the house to look like a book (no conclusive evidence of that), but you sure can get the inside of the house bookified!

Hmmm... where to begin? Well, if you want to decorate with books, everyone's first thought is turned to the library. However, from the photo above, we can see that there are much more creative ways to get to book theme into your home without going to the library or even owning one. Not everyone has the luxury of owning a library covered on every available space, floor to ceiling with bookshelves filled with books as seen in the animation movie 'beauty and the beast' and many other films. On the other hand, almost everyone can create the look while aspiring to own one. To get the look is pretty easy, use wallpapers. Two ways to go about this;

• either get an actual book wallpaper, or
• use newspapers in place of wallpaper. I'm not a fan of using actual book pages instead of wallpaper, for two reasons
• 1) it makes the design look tacky
• 2) it is a waste of the books we claim to love.

You can use book wallpapers when designing your library or study to give the illusion of a covered up floor to ceiling library. Endeavor though to have some real books in the space even if it's just one shelf. The newspaper print on the other hand is better when creating a feature wall.

When creating themed decors, one thing must be foremost in our minds "making a statement" (in a good way). Another way to incorporate the book theme into your home if you aren't up for the wallpaper is to create a unique bookshelf as shown in the photo above. Or you can have a unique arrangement for a regular shelf design. You can refer to this post to see another interesting design. 

Other ways to create this themed decor in an exquisite way is to wrap up objects with newspaper, or newsprint wallpaper and keep them in strategic locations as statement pieces. For example, you can wrap up you waste paper basket with newsprint (afterall, it's for paper). You can also create DIY vases using used bottles and beautiful colored papers. Fab up your kids room by creating paper toys for them. It is inexpensive. (Please do not wrap up lightings with paper. It might get heated and start a fire).

Let's get down to furniture, fabrics now also come in book prints. As shown in the photo above, it can be used as a bedspread. You can also use such fabrics to upholster a single sofa or an armchair, or to make a throw pillow or a curtain. So there you go, start turning your home into a book.

Get BOOKIFIED!!!...

Cheers...

Photo credit: pinterest

PHOTOGRAPHY THEMED DECOR

Hey Friends,

The last time I wrote on interior design, it was on a not so common themed decor. Today, I have another interesting and even more rare themed decor design to please your senses. Today, it is photography theme. Photography is an area I've always loved even though I know I could never be a professional at it. When you think of photography, what comes to mind? I know, it's easy, pictures. Well, if you thought that then you are probably correct. However, for the purpose of this discussion, I'll include videography to that. Many people now view them as separate entities, but I don't think they are entirely so different. Take for instance, the camera especially, the digital camera. It is used to both take pictures and record events (videos). Another example, these days, videos can be stored on compact discs, well, so can picture. Besides videos are also called motion pictures. So, I hope I am not mistaken in clumping the two together for this post. 

Unto more interesting things, how do you achieve this look? It must already seem daunting especially with this first photo. You would wonder if I'm implying you build a house. If you can, why not? Anyway, dear friends don't fret. It gets simpler. Achieving the photography theme is probably something we already practice but pay no attention to. These are very easy ways to achieve the photography themed decor.

• If you read my posts on interior design, you'll notice that I rarely write any without stressing the need to accessorize with picture frames and artwork. Well, this is the exact theme that requires you to take it all out. Back in the day, when I was in secondary school, students had this habit of pasting pictures of their family and friends on the wall (I did it too). A better way or should I say more sophisticated way to go about it now, is by creating a feature wall with frames photos even if of different shapes and sizes.

• Another way to incorporate this theme, I'm sorry to say would be more beneficial to collectors. Are you a camera or video tape collector? Well, today is your lucky day. All you have to do is created an eye-catching location for your collection in your space and voila! you have yourself a unique statement piece. Take a look below;

• A third way to achieve this look is by creating what looks like a dark room. A dark room is a room where pictures are developed. To achieve this, you can hang negative film and/or pictures on ropes using clips. How about designing your living room so it look like a movie or studio set? Action, set, go! Isn't that a great idea? Be careful with this style though so you don't end up with a tacky space instead of a gorgeous one.

• The final and easiest way to incorporate this theme is to get wallpaper or beddings with photographic designs on them. The designs could vary as list above.

So, what are you waiting for? Go out there and start your decoration plans!! Until I come your way again with another themed decor, (I hope soon)....

Cheers....

photo credits:
tumblr.photojojo.com
lovecreativerooms.blogspot.com
deadredeyes.com
hallifordfilmstudios.co.uk

MUSIC THEMED DECOR

Hey guys,

Happy sallah in arrears to you. Today, I thought I'd write something on decor. It's been a while! Don't you think? Anyway, you know, with my other discussions on themed decor, I always say go with the accessories, but with the musical themed decor, you can go all the way. From the architectural designs to wallpaper with musicians or music signs to decorating with real musical instruments.

Music pool

As always, we start with what colors to use for the space, type of lighting or furniture, however, in this case, there are no such restrictions. You can choose any color you love, any type of furniture or light fixtures. There are no rules that dictates a particular way to go. For this type of decor, I say "just go with it". 

Music house

A little advice though, the minimalist approach is preferable, especially when choosing your furniture. You could also do a "pop of colour" or "a feature wall" (refer to older posts on this blog). 

The main thing to take away from this post is that adding real musical instruments only adds to the design. It is only in this design that you should have a band in your bedroom, for instance. 

I'm feeling a bit sleepy right now, so I am off to bed. Nightie night guys. Cheers......

Photo credit: http://themerooms.blogspot.com/2012/12/music-bedroom-decorating-ideas-rock.html

ikibedroom.blogspot.com/2013/03/music-bedroom-decor.html

http://www.abned.com/cool-music-themed-bedroom-ideas/white-cover-music-bedroom-design/

MY TRADITIONAL MARRIAGE CEREMONY

Hey friends,

My last post was about planning my weddings, well I've got one down and two to go. The traditional marriage was on the 16th of May (2 days after my birthday - May 14th) and it was a huge success. I had family and friends as a solid support. The day didn't go without a few hiccups though as with every great occasion. 

The first was when the DJ didn't show-up on time. the event was supposed to start at 12 noon, and that was when the DJ thought it convenient to arrive. Next was the video and photo coverage guy, he came at 1 O' clock! Can you beat that? He missed all my hair and makeup shots. The in-laws came at 2 pm. At this point, I was soooo mad!!! Anyway, the event kicked off immediately after their arrival. Did I mention that some of my colleagues from work had to travel for about 4 hours to make it to my village and had to go back that same day? So naturally, at 2 pm, they were beginning to agitate about leaving. I succeeded in keeping them till about 5 pm (not on purpose of course, but with pleas). I needed some of the ladies for my asheobi group.

Old Traditional Igbo attire

With old trad Asheobi group

Offering food for money

With friends from school

The ceremony started at 3:30 pm, I had to dance out 3 times. The 1st time with the traditional Igbo attire to offer food to people for which they put in some money in exchange. The 2nd time, to greet and wave at everyone. I chose an Indian attire for this and the last appearance in he modern Igbo traditional outfit to look for my husband and present him to my parents. The blessings were given at this point and then, it's dance till your leg hurts. lolll.....

Indian attire

Indian asheobi group with a glimpse of the modern trad Igbo asheobi group

Dolled up - Modern Igbo trad attire

Looking for the right man

Found him - My better half

My parents, digging it

Blessing time 

Getting our groove on

So thirsty after dancing

Kiss kiss

Play time

Let the pictures tell the story.....

Cheers.....

*P.S. Just had time for this little post. The court wedding is tomorrow and I'm yet to buy my dress. Ciao

COLOR-CODED THEME

The color-coded theme is the easiest way to create a themed décor. It also has a way of becoming tacky when you make the mistake of overdoing it. Basically, the color-coded theme is all about decorating your space, whether it's your bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, or living area with one particular color or in the case of a "black and white theme", - two colors. It is decorating a space in different shades of a color. 

Black and White theme

Decorating a space in different shades of a color makes it look like you actually used more than one color. Which is indeed the truth in actual fact. Take for example, the color we all refer to as purple. It has many shades and those shades in turn have their own names like violet, lilac and lavender. However the most prominent color that comes to mind when describing them is purple. This is because the others can be referred to as light purple, bluish purple e.t.c. Same goes for blue, green, pink and so on.

Purple Room

In decorating a color-coded themed space, you don't always have to make it different shades of a color. You can use only one shade of the color and break it up with neutral colors like brown and white, or even black. These neutral colors can be used in the furniture, accessories and lighting. Another good thing about the color-coded theme is that any of the other  themes like the Victorian, French or Asian themes can be incorporated into it. You can do almost anything with it.

Have fun decorating with this theme. you'd love it.

Cheers....

SPORTS THEMED DECOR

Some years ago, I would have said this theme is specific for guys and be comfy with that statement. Thank God I didn't start blogging then. Looking at things with a more matured mind now, has made me realize that sports is not exclusive to men. Women also participate in sports and excel at it. You know what they say.... "what a man can do, a woman can do better". No offence please. Just blogging.

There's something about guys and balls though, I wonder why? Almost all the sports they are involved in have something to do with balls. It's either football or basketball, baseball or tennis ball or golf balls. Like really? Anyone wants to take a guess as to why there must be balls in the name of the game? Anyway just kidding. There's also swimming, running, race cars, jumps, gymnastics, badminton e.t.c. They are countless. Meanwhile, let's get on with today's topic, the sports-inspired theme.

Creating a sports inspired theme would depend largely on the type of sports you love. It doesn't have to be only one meanwhile. You can love football and swimming at the same time. You also don't have to be involved physically in sports to get your themed space. You could just be a huge fan. Doesn't really matter. The best way to achieve your desired effect is by accessorizing. There are no specific color codes or how the furniture should look in particular. However, if you are not a great fan of any leagues or clubs and you want a general sports feel, painting the walls with either white, blue or light brown wouldn't be out of place.

WHAT DO YOU ACCESSORIZE WITH?

• Wall arts: You can never go wrong with these. They help you express exactly what it is you want. They range from wallpapers to decals to pictures to directly painting on the walls.
• Rugs: You can actually get rugs with footballs drawn on them or one shaped like a ball
• Throwpillows: Either get the regular square or rectangular throwpillows with pictures of sports element on them. Or if the elements are balls, make the pillows into that shape. That is round or cone-like with materials the color of the balls you want. The materials could be custom made.
• Beddings and curtains: This is the easiest way to bring in this theme. Get a sport-inspired bedding and you are half way through.
• Lightings: No specifics about lightings, but if you can get round ones then better.
• Hardware: What better than to have the actual sports object like a baseball bat, the types of balls themselves or your racket on display?

Finally, it's not just enough to pick one accessory and think you've got yourselves a sports theme. you have to tie everything together. 

Cheers......

Photo credit: http://www.snuut.com/various-kids-bedroom-with-cool-theme-ideas/sport-theme-boys-bedroom-decor-ideas/

http://www.homedit.com/40-teenage-boys-room-designs-we-love/

CONTEMPORARY THEMED DECOR

The word contemporary may mean many different things, but in decorating, it simply means modern. To put it in another term, what is existing at the moment. The contemporary themed decor is associated with a streamlined look. It is in this type of decor you hear the term "less is more" and "minimalist". It is fresh, involves clean lines, (no much carvings and frilly stuff). It can be edgy on one end, when lots of metal, glass, marble are used. And soft, warm and inviting on the other with elements like wood, textiles and some color.

The decor that embodies the contemporary themed decor most is the Asian inspired theme. This is not to say that it can not be incorporated into some other types of decor, but the Asian theme pulls it off effortlessly. The architectural work of the minimalist decor is also remarkable albeit being some what simple. It comprises large open spaces with big windows or glass walls. It has enough storage so nothing looks out of place. The storage however, may not be conspicuous. It may be a drawer under the bed or sofa, or even under the stairs.

Now, let's begin the process of designing your brand new contemporary home. As always, we'll go through the different aspects like what color to use, types of furniture, lighting and of course, home accessories. 

COLORS: The colors to be used for this design usually come in the neutral tones like cream, light brown and white  for the background. A little color can be added for a POP! effect. This pop! of color can be seen on a rug, throwpillows, poufs or work of art. A feature wall may also be done to add more warmth to the space.

FURNITURE: The furniture has clean lines, and edges. No carving, ornamental features,ruffles or embroidery. They may come in different types of fabrics but the natural ones are preferred for the sofas to take of the hard look of the lines. Steel, leather, glass and marble are also used especially with coffee tables and dining. Some chrome may be added to the sofa, maybe at the bottom of it. SO it still retains some of its edginess. Light colored wood are used for the furniture. The are usually minimal in quantity took to avoid overcrowding of the space.

LIGHTING: Because most of these spaces may already have some architectural frame work of large windows, natural lighting is an important part in the contemporary design. However, if your don't have lots of natural lights streaming into your space, (even when you do, it gets dark at night), artificial lighting with sleek designs and clean lines are advised. They may also be placed in strategic locations to accentuate another feature in the space. No peacock or Santa Claus lamps please.

HOME ACCESSORIES: Finally, we are here, my best part in decorating.... accessories!!! This is where you get to add all the softness and warmth you want with this type of design. Your throwpillows, rugs, lamps, vases, clocks, artwork e.t.c all come in at this point. The key though, is not to overcrowd the space. You might end up with another design theme that you didn't bargain for.

Hit me up guys... Tell me if this post helped.

Cheers......

ARABIAN - INSPIRED THEME

This reminds me of Arabian nights! Remember the animated movie "Aladdin?" Interesting one don't you think? Well maybe not for all. Personally, I loveee animated movies especially the classics. Creating an Arabian themed décor is not for the weak and feeble, if you intend to go all out with it. It requires a lot of thought process to achieve something spectacular. Thinking of how to write this article on Arabian inspired decor already has me both fatigued and intrigued. Usually, I think of a subject matter, I start writing the post and I'm done writing before I can say Jack Robinson. I read through, edit and schedule for posting, occasionally editing before and after it has been posted. Not to brag or anything, just saying. However, with this particular post, I have started, stopped, researched, edited and re-edited. I have done this for almost a month. Finally, I came up with this. I initially labelled the post "Moroccan theme". However, it seemed too specific and narrow. I changed it to Arabian inspired theme instead. Hope you love it

If you recall, I started writing on themed inspired home decorations a few months ago and we've actually cut across a lot, moving from one continent to another, taking one design theme at a time. The Arabian theme, even though it can be represented in a contemporary manner, is much better if you can do it just the way it should be. It is such a blend of so many themes, it's a wonder it turned out so beautiful. There are some terms commonly associated with this type of decor and they are EXOTIC and LUXURIOUS. A few other things also make it stand out and differentiate it from the numerous themes closely associated with it. They will be discussed as we move along.

Let me begin by citing a few of the themes it has some similarities with and how. Stating the African theme or Safari themed decor might be a little too obvious. Morocco is afterall in the northern part of Africa. From the above themes, You deduce the use of neutral tones of colors closely associated with the deserts. From the Indian theme and the Mexican/Spanish theme, there is the association with vibrant hues mostly in reds and blues and jewel tones. In the arched doorways and windows, and also in the use of textured materials, chiffon and silks. The Asian theme becomes involved in the furniture as they prefer it almost on the floor and with poufs. Let's not forget the rustic theme, simply check out the lightings. The Victorian theme is embedded in its luxurious look with drapery and canopied/4-poster beds.

The color range of this theme is very vast like I already noted. It ranges from neutral tones of browns and tan to vibrant hues and jewel tones of gold, torquise blue, royal blue, yellow, orange, red e.t.c. The colors arise from the colors of the desert, sun and the Mediterranean sea. When it comes to the archs, unlike the Indian theme, it isn't limited to doorways and windows. You'll find it on the walls, as a design on an accessory, by the fireplace and so on. They remind me of the crescent moon, probably that's where they were derived from. The walls of the Arabian theme is not just good enough when left plain. (This can however be done if you don't want to be too strict with your designs). The walls are usually either covered with fabrics to create the illusion of a tent. Or they are extremely designed with Moroccan graphic mosaic tiles (they are usually small - come in 1" x 1" size). To get something similar and cheaper, try stencils or wallpapers. The ceilings also bear the same exotic decor, either painted with a dark color, tiled or given a canopy appearance with wood or archs.

Have you read my post on "mixing textures and patterns?" then you'll understand if I say this type of decor is a master of the art. It begs to ask the question "Is it really enough to use only one type of pattern for tiling the floors and walls?" Up to four or more patterns can be used but keep it all in the same shade to avoid running into the other side where tacky belongs. The furniture is preferred very close to the ground with a myriad of throwpillows, poufs and throw-rugs in beautiful colors to create that comfy feeling. They also love chaise lounges in lovely designs. The lightings are mostly rustic chandeliers, you can just help but adore, lamps (remember the genie from Aladdin?) and candles. You can accessorize with artworks, mirrors (preferably with crystals and jewel-like stones on its frame), Persian rugs, vases and numerous pillows.

The Arabian inspired decor is unique in its own sense when it comes to its;

• Mosaic graphic tiles and rugs
• Lighting patterns
• Numerous throwpillows and poufs

The Arabian theme is quite captivating and it gives you the complete feeling of being in palace.

Cheers.....

Photo Credit: http://www.digsdigs.com/66-mysterious-moroccan-bedroom-designs/
http://www.hgtv.com/decorating-basics/12-exotic-moroccan-inspired-rooms/pictures/index.html