04 December 2011

Decorate Your Kids Room With Beautiful Curtains

It has been proved that that the kid gets an ideal atmosphere suiting his personality as well as taste, he learns things very rapidly, remain happier and it aids to develop their entire personality.
You as a homemaker should be aware of various aspects that can make your interiors at home outstanding. Therefore, you can try out some personalized factors which are designed particularly for particular target groups i.e. kids. One such aspect is the kids curtain. Kids curtains are readily available in a range of colors, designs and fabrics in the market. They are indeed exclusive that are particularly designed keeping in mind the needs of the kids of particular age groups. These curtains are an ideal factor that allows your kids to determine the interior decor of their room.
You can allow the child to select the curtains for their room of their choice and preference. They do have a good sense of styles, colors and at least fashion ongoing in the market. Hence, you can easily get varied decorative concepts from your kids. Some kids like plants, nature, flowers, etc. for them, a room of floral themes, animal themes or natural color themes is the best idea. You can decorate their room based on such themes that they like, however when it comes to the curtains, many parents tend to utilize the commonly available curtains or a set that is being used in the other rooms, as well. Nevertheless, you can easily come across the best curtains available in the market suiting the theme you have chosen for your child.
Some kids have a liking for cartoons and they do like all the goodies and gizmos of some specific cartoon characters. It may be a toy, notebook, towel or any other thing. For these kids, you can have curtains with cartoon print on them. These curtains are available in various fabrics. Hence, you can purchase different matching fabric that you use at home, as well. This will not disturb the theme of your house. Also remember, that when you are doing interior decor of your kids room, get various accessories suiting the theme that has been determined by you. For instance, night lamps with a cartoon theme on it, wall paints with pre-designed or stars or cartoon print on them can be used.
You may choose any kind of drapery for the kids room. But, moving along with a particular theme is a good idea, as well. When these kinds of products are available readily in the market, then why should we hesitate to use them. They will definitely add an element of elegance and style to your kids room decor. So, make your child's room appealing and interesting to him with different styles of curtains.
Terrys Fabrics specialize in the distribution of blinds, roller blinds, roman blinds and Vertical Blinds within the UK.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ian_MckIntosh

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3613836

07 November 2011

Garden Cottage Wedding Decor

There is something very appealing about the fresh and romantic look of a cottage in a rambling garden. If you are looking for a wonderful theme for your wedding décor, garden cottage style would be a beautiful choice. The comfortable, yet pretty, look of an English garden makes for a warm and inviting wedding reception.
When you start designing your garden cottage wedding, it will be important to choose the right venue. An outdoor setting is ideal, but an indoor location could work as well. Just be sure to choose a reception site that has plenty of natural light, and is not too modern or formal. Definitely shoot for a late spring or a summer wedding.
Cottage style is always cozy and inviting, and often a bit cluttered. Don't be afraid to really fill up your space with little knick knacks or small floral arrangements in the various nooks and crannies. If your venue space feels too wide open and cold, warm it up with accents like decorative fabric screens and potted trees in the corners.
Painted furniture is one of the cornerstones of garden cottage style, so if your venue does not have this type of thing, plan to rent it. For the reception seating, white wooden slat chairs would be ideal. If you have the space (and the budget), it would look great to create a lounge seating area with whitewashed wooden side tables and coffee tables, along with overstuffed armchairs in a faded floral or a stripe design.
Flowers are naturally one of the most important parts of a garden cottage theme. They should be lush, abundant, and informal. You want the centerpieces to be full and overflowing, but simply arranged, rather like you just plucked these beautiful blossoms from your own garden and popped them into unfussy vases and other vessels. Us the types of flowers that grow in yards, not greenhouses. Great choices include roses, peonies, and lilacs.
The bride and her attendants will want their attire to fit in with the garden cottage theme. Look for dresses in feminine fabrics, such as lace and chiffon. You want to choose gowns that are beautiful, but not excessively formal. For example, the bride could wear something like a handbeaded chiffon draped over a silk crepe. A little sweep train would be just right. Another option would be a simple strapless gown created from a delicate lace.
The bridesmaids should wear equally pretty attire. Colors like pale pink, sage green, or lilac would be wonderful for their dresses. For the bridesmaid jewelry gifts, the bride should look for graceful and elegant pieces. Dainty drop pearl and crystal earrings and pendants would be ideal, especially with the matching bracelets. Gifts of bridesmaid jewelry are a great way for the bride to thank her attendants while adding the perfect finishing touches to their wedding ensembles at the same time.
Every bride wants her wedding to be pretty and romantic. A garden cottage theme is a great way to have a wedding that has a feeling that is romantic and distinctive. The relaxed backdrop of an English country cottage will make for a warm and inviting reception for you and your guests.

05 November 2011

10 Top Garden Accessories

Are you looking for a way to draw interest to your garden? Are you ready to make your garden the one that everyone notices in your neighborhood? While you are planning your garden or just looking to freshen things up, give some thought to garden accessories. There are many things you can do without spending a lot of dollars!
1) Lanterns: For adding a touch of romance. Choose aromatic candles or scented ones for chasing the mosquitoes away! Lanterns can be used on tables or along the meander path. There are as many ways to arrange them as there are different styles.
2) Fake Flowers: Well there are some areas where plants refuse to grow. So why not get creative with metal flowers? Keep 'em guessing is my motto.
3) Containers: Available in a variety of different styles and shapes. They can be moved anywhere and switched out any time to go with your color scheme or the season. Place cone tea lights within the planters and create your own work of art!
4) Bird Feeders: Many types are available today Feeders will attract birds to the garden bring with them their beautiful songs.
5) Obelisks and Trellises: Can be works of art or as simple as bamboo poles. They can be used solely for effect or for function. A great way to define space and support plants. Allow your favorite flowering vine climb around this garden accessory. Tastefully placed they add structure and beauty to your landscape.
6) Gazing Balls: the gazing ball has become one of the most must have garden accessory. From stately classic gardens to quaint cottage garden yards, gazing balls can be found. Highly reflective one are ideally suited to show off your garden from different viewpoints.
7) Rain Chains: A simple item that adds the delightful sound of running water and vertical interest to your garden. A beautiful and functional alternative to the typical closed downspout.
8) Bird Baths: A must have item for any bird fancier. Bird baths can be hand crafted works or art or just a simple dish. You are giving them a place to play and bathe while you enjoy their company.
9) Bells and Chimes: Gardens are best appreciated for visual appeal and fragrance. You can add the dimension of sound to your garden with chimes and have a soothing, peaceful feeling Bells and chimes are a dynamic element in the landscape, forever changing with the slightest breeze.
10) Wall Plaques: This accessory takes over where plants leave off. the do not distract or overwhelm. they provide interest when plants are not at their most striking.
When it comes to placing accessories remember "quality over quantity". Quality does not mean expensive, garden accessories can start at less than $10.00. Skillfully placed, a piece will guide the eye and add to the beauty of the plantings. They enhance the yard and bring interest to the garden.

28 October 2011

Using Colors in Your Room

Colors play an important part in your Home Decor process. Colors are what give life and personality to your room.
Here are some quickies to keep in mind when deciding over colors.
1. If you are using many colors in one single room, make sure you use a color at least three times in the same room. You could use shades and tints of that color. For e.g. your curtains, pillows and tablecloth can be of the same color. This gives a look of harmony and help avoid the 'too much' and 'confused' look.
2. For filling space, use warm colors like reds, yellows and oranges. They tend to grab the eye and fill the space and are soothing and warm.
3. For giving an illusion of more and open space, use cool colors like blues, greens and violets.
4. For a serene and comforting look, use pale pinks. The closer pink gets to red, the more energetic it becomes.
5. Use vertical stripes on walls and curtains for an illusion of height.
6. Light colored walls and ceilings make the room look larger and more spacious.
7. Try to avoid contradicting colors and themes. If you want your room to look larger and need to use cool colors to achieve it, choose a theme which goes with cool colors.
8. If same-colored sofa, carpet and other upholstery give a monotonous look, use colorful cushions and wall-hangings to break the monotony.

09 September 2011

Putting On The Charm To Your Cottage Style Bathrooms

The great thing about using the cottage style for bathrooms is that it works wonderfully in even the smallest of spaces; adding to the charm factor. If you are lucky enough to have a larger size bathroom than most, the cottage style can be accentuated and toyed with to become nothing less than spectacular! We have rounded up some of our favourite cottage style bathrooms to inspire your own decorating - just remember that the few rules of cottage style are that it should be very homely, cosy and full of charm; take a peep at what we have in store for you.
Where would the cottage style be without its iconic floral prints on textiles and accessories? We love to see some of these florals in the cottage bathroom; especially if you are going for a more feminine look. Its pretty, welcoming and very homely - dare we say luxurious too with your choice of fabrics and accessories. It would be just perfect if your bath sat in front of a window; this time dressed with flowing floral made to measure curtains as opposed to blinds - you might want to use both though when in need of more privacy! A claw foot bath would definitely act as a statement piece, all the more so when your curtains can be opened to frame it.
Do choose a delicate floral print that steers more towards a vintage look as opposed to contemporary; you can always bring in more vivid colours with other textiles such as a vibrant red and white striped bath rug or ruby red towels displayed on open shelving. Complete the look with some country inspired accessories such as wicker baskets and even a white or cream wicker chair when there is room.
* Another essentially cottage look is achieved with rustic pieces alongside feminine accessories and again - a beautiful claw foot bath when its at all possible! Do pay attention to how you accessorise, down to the curtain poles, storage units and cute little candles around the bath. We love to see the contrast of black, wrought iron curtain poles with the softness of cream seen in wall paint, storage units (with an aged appearance to best effect) and country style ready made curtains. The charm comes mostly from the simplicity of colour choices, accessories and one statement piece such as the bath - which would also look best when painted to match your colour scheme of cream and white.
* A sense of calm is called for in most bathrooms and the cottage style is great at setting the right mood. Start your makeover with some traditional cottage décor - tongue and groove panelling is both cottage charm and country classic. The claw foot bath comes in again with this final look, but you can always stay with an existing fitting - just try to make it more romantic by having mixer taps central to the bath instead of placed at one end (better for sharing a long soak!) Continue this subtle romance with soft lighting - a large rustic lantern or two with candles can be placed by the bath and pretty vintage florals for storage boxes and curtains.
Curtain Wizard specialize in the distribution of ready made curtains, made to measure curtains and eyelet curtains. View the full range of Curtains on the Curtain Wizard website.

27 August 2011

Creating Your Own Garden Cottage Design

The Way You Can Benefit From Garden Cottage Design

As you all know, when people start talking about gardens, people tend to think about a lot of things such as, a garden gives a person a fresh scenery of green plants and gives you a satisfying memory of the flowers' scent. The first thing that people think when they hear about country garden cottage design is the English cottage which has a soothing and comfortable effect because it is being surrounded will green lush garden which is full of shrubs that are flowery and plants that are enclosed around the fence. This is very relaxing scenery to everyone, but don't you know that you too can have your very own cottage garden which will give a satisfying and relaxing scenery. Save yourself of going away from your home just to experience this feeling, by having your own cottage garden you will feel very relax at the comfort of your own home.
One of the most important features that your cottage garden should have is the soothing and relaxing feeling. Once you achieved this thing you are on your way of creating your own imagination in to real life. The first thing that you should do is to think about the landscape of your garden. If your garden is small, you can have a small soothing garden with a trimmed neat lining of flowers and bushes which are filled with beautiful shrubs. If you have a big garden, you can make it look elegant by putting some green plants and alluring flowers and add some fountain or waterfall in the landscape.
You don't need to worry about what plants to grow because there are a wide range of herbs and plants that you can choose. You can look for some books about creating a nice and relaxing cottage garden. You can have plants that can easily grow and develop perfectly without the need of too much caring. Avoid choosing plants that are hard to maintain specially during cold weather as these are not the best choice for a cottage garden.
You can also add some flower shrubs to your garden to make it look alluring. Remember that flowers can help your garden to look elegant, bright and gorgeous. If you want your garden to be useful as well, why not try planting some vegetables and fruits, in this way your garden is not only alluring in the eyes but also useful for your everyday needs.
You can search the internet for some tips about the proper setting of a garden. You can also ask for the help of a landscape designer which will give you fresh ideas for your cottage garden plants such as a unique design or appearance. Remember to not over do your garden as this will not be soothing in the eyes. You should put in mind that a cottage garden should consist of flowers and plants that you loved to have. Your cottage garden plants will reflect your personality so you should definitely make it as simple and soothing as possible.
Mattis Bailey is gardener enthusiast, and enjoys helping others get started in this amazing hobby. The newest eBook, "Herb Garden Kits," teaches gardening and everything you need to know about Garden Cottage Design. If you need to know more info starting and maintaining a thriving herb gardening http://www.herbgarden-kits.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4300151

25 June 2011

UK Interior Design For Seaside Cottages

UK is an island country situated off the northwestern coast of Europe. It is a sovereign state and an exotic place to visit. It mainly comprises of four nations: Scotland, England, Northern Ireland and Wales. Every year a huge number of tourists visit this place to experience the serenity and class of this country.
Holiday cottages in UK are the most common type of accommodation options here. Especially, seaside cottages are very popular and if you are planning to gift a seaside cottage to your family, then there are a number of options available for you. The cottages which you are looking to gift to your loved ones should be up to the mark in terms of interior designing and furnishings.
There are a number of tips for the interior design of your seaside cottage in UK. Basically, these decorations provide you with a relaxing and soothing atmosphere and are perfect for all kinds of families. The first thing you need to think about is the color of your cottage. For seaside cottages light colors usually white is in fashion. Then you need to purchase matching curtains and furniture for your home. You can then think about purchasing the various accessories for your home décor.
There are a number of ways to make your cottage look like heaven on the seaside. You need to work upon each and every room step by step. Just make sure you choose the right things for right places. You can place pictures of cartoons in your kids' room to make them feel happy. Get the best of deals from the market on different home décor items. Deal with every part of your cottage separately. While designing the interior of your seaside cottage make sure that you always keep in mind the likes and dislikes of your family members.
Do not always try and give a sophisticated look to your cottage, instead try and keep it as simple as possible and trust me it would look very beautiful. Every small detail contributes a small bit to the interiors of the cottage. The interiors should be such that as soon as your family enters the cottage they simply do adore the house.
Interior designing for seaside cottages is not that a difficult task than it looks. You just need to go step by step and follow the norms and surely you will land up with a beautiful home décor. These are some of the important information related to interior design. Make sure you go through this article before deigning the décor of your own cottage in UK.
Looking for Holiday Cottages? Find out more about Holiday Cottages Scotland
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melanie_Perez

Customizing Your New House Plan

You decided to build your new dream home and right from the start began searching for the perfect stock plan. However, after searching for many hours you have yet to fall in love with any certain plan. You can't afford to invest in entirely custom drawn home plans and you are just about to give up hope that this dream home is out there but don't quit yet! The solution is right in front of you and it won't break your budget.
Somewhere in those hours of reviewing stock plans, you probably came across a plan or two that was almost exactly what you were looking for, whether it be small cottage home plans or Spanish mission houseplans. Perhaps you want a slightly different exterior or you need one room to be slightly larger. Maybe you wish the garage entry was placed differently or the master bath had a larger shower and smaller linen closet. All of these changes are options when it comes to customizing stock plans to fit your particular needs. Many home design designers and architects that develop stock home plans have modifications available for their house plans. Taking advantage of these options allows you to turn an "almost-perfect" plan into the dream home you absolutely love - and at a much more affordable cost than entirely customizing your dream home and starting from scratch!
Modifications to stock plans typically change some structure of the plan - from moving an interior wall, altering the exterior facade, or swapping out one foundation for another. To take advantage of these customizations, you need to be aware of your dream home's needs. Keep in mind the following limitations:
Know your lot - Before setting your heart on a specific stock plan with modifications, be familiar with your lot. Is it sloping or will it be leveled out? What is the water table? Is a finished basement practical or should you look for a plan with a second floor bonus room? Can you build a house plans ranch walkout basement?
Look ahead - Right now your family of three is perfectly comfortable in a two-bedroom house. However, what about a year or even five years from now? New additions to the family will need their own space, from children's nurseries to elderly parents who may need to move in with you. You cannot always perfectly anticipate your family's needs, but preparing now by finding a plan with an extra bathroom or a multifunctional bonus room is a terrific idea. In addition to space, look for plans that will allow easy incorporation of technological advances as well as good future resale value.
Know your weather - The weather and climate not only affects the way you dress but also the way you outfit your home. New England homes have peaked roofs so heavy snow will fall off the roof rather than cave it in. Coastal homes that face tornado and hurricane assaults have flat roofs that help avoid detrimental wind damage. Be aware of what your dream home will need to avoid unnecessary work and expensive repair in the future.
"Almost" does not cut it - The most important thing is to love the plan you choose and the modifications you've decided to make to it. If something still isn't right, do not ignore that feeling. Take time to look over the plan carefully. Look at a few more stock plans and see if modifying a different plan would be easier. Remember that customizations are being done to get exactly what you want, not just as-close-as possible.
Once you have determined the modifications you desire, it's time to get them started! Depending on the stock plan you choose, the process may differ. Be prepared to submit a modification request form that should include detailed explanations of the modifications desired. And referring to the rooms as they are on the stock plan will make it a quicker and easier process. A quote will be returned to you within days. Accepting this quote will lead to approving drafts, and sooner rather than later you will be ready to start building.
At times the process to get the dream home you imagine may seem daunting. But, with a little patience and attention to detail, it is surely not impossible. Remember that designers and architects also benefit from your modification requests. By hearing directly from the customer what does and does not work for them, entirely new plans are often designed. And in the end, these enhanced plans turn your dream home into a reality for others looking for the perfect home. If your looking for small cottage home plans, spanish mission houseplans or even house plans ranch walkout basement, visit House Plans and More Today!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alice_Lane

14 June 2011

An English Country Garden

Just say ' An English Country Garden.' To most people, the words conjure thoughts of a colorful, scented, peaceful place, but in days of old nothing could have been further from the truth. In fact the English Country Garden was born, half from necessity and the other half by accident.
In feudal England a peasants life was harsh, they were almost slaves and the greater part of what they could grow went to their feudal lord and 10% of all they grew went as a 'tithe', for the upkeep of the church and the priesthood. The rest, such as it was, they could keep for themselves.
In 1348 - 1350 The Black Death ravaged England and the surviving peasants demanded higher wages, fewer working hours and even their freedom. As there was a serious shortage of workers the lords of the manor often gave in. Thirty years later a 'poll' or head tax was levied resulting in the Peasants Revolt. A slightly better lifestyle followed, and the lords of the manor often gave their serfs a two roomed 'tied' cottage with a patch of ground around it.
This small piece of land had to keep the family in as much food as possible, they would have a chicken coop for eggs and the occasional chicken, a goat for milk, and perhaps a pig to slaughter and salt as well as the 'cess pit' for waste.
The lady or 'good wife' as she was called would plant herbs for medicinal purposes such as chesty coughs, headaches, children's complaints and of course to cook with. What was left of the 'garden' was taken up with vegetables such as onions, peas, beans, as well as greens and small fruit trees. There was no room for flowers. But hollyhocks, delphiniums, red-hot pokers, lupins, love- in- a- mist and many other self seeders all found a place for themselves, no planning or designing, just Mother Nature at her best.
Later, when the peasant farmers realized that adding flowers and herbs to their vegetable plot would help to attract bees to pollinate their crops, the traditional English Country Garden evolved with its deep borders and vibrant mix of scented flowers and herbs, meandering pathways and a rustic bench tucked away in a quiet corner. A bird bath to encourage songbirds, a sundial, even a small water feature would add to the gardens peaceful ambiance, but please, no ruined temples, or Chinese Pagodas, think dry stone walls, chaotic, colorful flowers and thatched roofs for the authentic English country look.
Some plants for the Perfect English Country Garden.
Old fashioned roses, Cornflowers, Hydrangeas, Forget-me-nots, Red Hot Pokers
Hollyhocks, Syringa, Tulips, Pansies, Geraniums
Lupins, Iris, Poppies, Lilacs, Lavender
Climbers
Wisteria, Honeysuckle, Sweet Peas, Clematis, Ivy, Hops
Herbs
Chives, Feverfew, Chamomile, Basil, Artemisia
Lemon Balm, Yarrow, Thyme, Rosemary,Lemon Grass
Dill, Mint, Sage, Garlic, Tarragon

07 May 2011

English Country Cottages Offer Charm And Relaxation

The suggestion of English country cottages evokes thoughts of a warm hearth, warm woolen sweaters and a mug of tea. It also puts one in mind of beautiful beaches, rocky cliffs and endless skies. Perhaps a mountainous backdrop with animals grazing in the distance enters the scene. However imagined, the English countryside would be a perfect place to visit.
Located just a relatively short distance from London, it is possible to make the commute to the city daily for work and still have a heavenly retreat from a hectic day in the city. Who could resist the draw of the pretty scenery and lifestyle provided by such beautiful land that borders the seaside and the mountains?
Reaching this destination for international travelers arriving at Heathrow Airport requires a train ride into Paddington Station, and then another ninety minute train journey out of the city. Bus (coach) service is available, though it will take a slightly longer time to arrive, with a ride lasting about three or four hours. By auto, expect a two hour road trip on the M4.
Once there, your breath is taken away by visions of sea and sky, sandy beaches, cliffs and mountains. The pleasure of staying in English country cottages will surpass any thoughts of relaxation and comfort, and will, of course, offer tons of personality. As a stay for the holidays or a break from the pressures of daily life, a stay in such a home will charm and entice your every sense. Delightful would be the cottage with a thatched roof, but no less wonderful is a newer home with modern conveniences as we have come to appreciate, such as a washer and dryer and adequate heat and hot water.
Homeowners and vacationers alike will appreciate the square cottage with an attic or eave suitable for a snug reading loft, as will the chef preparing a meal for a hunting party just back and expecting some hearty fare cooked on the giant old stove. Mismatched dishes that have been stuffed into an old kitchen dresser complete the image of a simpler time, while meeting every need and expectation of those partaking in the meal offered. Only a great old Aga with an endless pot of tea boiling makes this picture complete. Fear not, homes that are available to let are usually quite updated, and can accommodate any number of guests. Perfect for a family reunion or celebration, the picturesque beauty will sing to any visitors who choose to make this countryside a memory.
One can only imagine the delight of English country cottages, enjoying the seaside, sandy beaches, golf or horseback riding. A trip to the pub for a pint or a day of exploring castles will surely be made more special with the anticipation of a warm cup of tea in front of a fire calling you home.
Are you looking for English country cottages for your next vacation? Be sure to visit my site for information on holiday cottages in Cornwall and many other locations.