Category Archives: Inspiration in a Frame

Minimalistic Interior Design: The Art of Simplicity

HOMESPIRATIONS

Minimalistic Interior Design: The Art of Simplicity

In this months’ frame I wanted to enrich you with the Moonshadow project of Oleksii Samokhvalov. Which can also be called a minimalist masterpiece due to it’s testament to the power of minimalism.

 

It’s clear focus on simplicity and functionality through artistic elements that have been used to create a form of uniqueness is truly inspiring. That is why Moonshadow is the perfect example of minimalistic design, but why should we talk about minimalism? Minimalistic interior design has been gaining popularity in recent years and for good reason. This design style focuses on the simplicity and functionality of a home, making it a great choice for those who want a clean and uncluttered space. The art of minimalism lies in the ability to create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional without any unnecessary elements. In this blog, we will explore the principles of minimalistic interior design and how to achieve this style in your own home.

 

What is Minimalistic interior design?

Minimalistic interior design is all about functionality through a simplistic approach, often used in modern and contemporary spaces. The popular style is characterized by a sense of spaciousness, with only essential and purposeful items included in the space. The focus lies on creating a serene and uncluttered environment that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional. So it comes to now surprise that accents are used sparingly and are often limited to a single statement piece.

Less Is More

The principle of minimalistic interior design is simple: less is more. This means that you should focus on the essentials and eliminate anything that is unnecessary. A minimalist space should be clutter-free and streamlined. When choosing furniture and decor, aim for pieces that are simple and functional. This doesn't mean that your space has to be completely empty. It means that you should carefully consider each element and make it serve a purpose in your home.

Natural Colors

One of the key features of minimalistic interior design is a neutral color palette. Whites, greys, and beige are popular choices. Especially for the fundaments of a home’s interior as walls, floors, and furniture. These colours create a calm and serene atmosphere, which is essential for a minimalist space. You can add pops of color with accessories like pillows or artwork, but I would recommend to keep these to a minimum when implementing a minimalistic style.

Functionality

As written in ‘less is more’, you should make sure that the elements in your home serve a desired purpose.

You might have thought, why so? Well that is because an important aspect of minimalistic design is the focus on functionality. Meaning that each element serves a purpose, since there should not be any unnecessary clutter. Therefore, furniture is kept to a minimum and it is carefully selected for its practicality and simplicity.

Clean Lines And Shapes

Another hallmark of minimalism is the use of clean lines and simple shapes. Furniture should be sleek and unadorned. Aim for pieces that have simple forms and angels without any intricate details. Does this mean we should sacrifice comfort of style?! No not at all, my current favourite pieces of furniture are both comfortable and have sleek designs. Curious to what they look like? Take a look at our latest Instagram posts!

 

Clean lines and shapes are a fundamental aspect of minimalistic interior design, since they play a crucial role in achieving the overall aesthetic of a minimalist space. So when it comes to decor, keep it minimal and choose items with simple shapes, such as geometric pieces or elegant vases.

 

Keep in mind that the clean lines and shapes essentially refer to the absence of intricate details and ornamentation within your home. Instead the focus lies on simplicity, clarity, and functionality.

Functional Layout

Let’s not forget the essence of a functional layout in a minimalistic interior design. It’s all about making the most of the available space, while keeping it organized and purposeful. So consider how you will use each of your rooms and arrange what furniture is necessary for that. Then choose a few key or ‘statement’ personal touches and arrange them in ways to maximize your rooms.


You know what, let me give you 5 tips to establish a minimalistic space:

 

  1. Consider the purpose of the room before arranging furniture. Ask yourself the questions if it will be used for relaxation or work? Will it be a place for socializing or more of a private retreat? Once you have a clear idea of the room’s purpose, you can arrange the furniture accordingly.
  2. Plan the traffic flow to make sure that there is a clear path through the room and that people can move around without any obstacles. This is especially important in small spaces where every inch of floor space counts.
  3. Use furniture to define spaces in open-concept spaces. This might sound a bit weird, so let’s take an example. A sofa and coffee table can define a living area, but the sofa can also create boundaries between different rooms by positioning the sofa in a way that the back is facing the dining area. You could also enhance this distinction by placing a console table behind the sofa, as long as this doesn’t impact the traffic flow negatively. The beauty of this is that it creates a sense of structure and organization in a large space.
  4. Aim for multi-functional furniture because this is key. We just discussed using a console table to create a barrier between two rooms in one space that have a different purpose. When you are choosing what console table to purchase, you could pay more attention to the amount of storage it can hold. Find ways to maximize functionality while keeping the furniture to a minimum. 
  5. Leave negative space, meaning you should leave empty space around furniture and decor items. Negative space creates a sense of calm and balance in the space and helps to prevent the space from feeling cluttered. It can also make your rooms seem much larger and more spacious.

Conclusion

Minimalistic design is all about the simplicity and functionality of your home. By focusing on the essentials and multi-purposeful furniture, you can create a serene space that is both spacious and functional. With a neutral color palette; clean lines and shapes; and a functional layout, you can achieve this style in your own home. Excited to show how you used a minimalistic design in your home and what statement pieces you used? Submit your home for our Home Tour through the contact form.

 

And remember less is more!

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A Pop of Orange: How to Add a Touch of Color with Lighting

HOMESPIRATIONS

A Pop of Orange: How to Add a Touch of Color with Lighting

Are you looking to bring the colors of your home to life, but are unsure how to start? Well, I’ll let you in on my secret today. The perfect way to bring your colors to life are done with the power of light. 

 

You may ask, why with light and not just adding furniture or ornaments in this color. Why not just paint my walls?! The easy answer to that is, I personally like subtle accents of colors while keeping the room serene and neutral. So, I had to find a way in which I was able to have both a neutral colored home and a colorful home. And lighting can be just that powerful tool for bringing out the best in any color and highlighting it in your space.

 

Light and color theory

Color and lighting are influential elements in interior design, as they can have huge impacts on the overall mood and atmosphere of a space.

Understanding the theory behind how color and lighting interact can help you make decisions when designing a room.

The color wheel

First, it's important to understand the color wheel, which is a visual representation of the different colors and their relationship to one another. At the center we have the primary colors which are red, blue, and yellow. These colors are considered the building blocks of all other colors and cannot be created by mixing other colors together. From the primary colors, we can create the secondary colors by mixing them together. The secondary colors, which are green, orange, and purple. Together, the primary and secondary colors can create tertiary colors.

Lighting

When designing a room, it's important to consider how color and lighting will interact.

So enhancing warm colors can be done by using warm lighting like incandescent bulbs. While cool colors will be enhanced by cool lighting such as LED bulbs.

Additionally, different lighting sources can create different moods. You can for instance create a cozy and intimate atmosphere by using a soft light, and if you want to create more of a energetic atmosphere you can use a bright light.

Window treatment

One more aspect of lighting design to take in consideration is about the natural light that enters your rooms. You can control the amount of natural light that comes in and what ambiance to create with this light through window treatment. You might have heard about window treatment before and if not this refers to any type of covering applied to windows to control light, provide privacy and enhance the overall aesthetic of a space. You can use window treatment in many different ways through various types of window treatments, each with its own unique features and benefits.

The Color Wheel

Within the color wheel we also speak of complementary colors. These colors are those that are opposite of each other on the color wheel. These colors have the greatest contrast and can create a dynamic visual effect when used together.

 

The color wheel can also be divided into warm and cool colors. Warm colors as reds, oranges, and yellows are associated with warmth and energy. While cool colors as blues, greens, and purples are associated with calmness and tranquility.

 

One of the most common ways to use the color wheel is to create a color scheme. A color scheme is a combination of colors that work well together. Let me introduce you to a few types of color schemes:

 

  1. Monochromatic color scheme uses variations of one color.
  2. Complementary color scheme uses colors that are opposite to each other on the color wheel.
  3. Analogous color scheme uses colors that are next to each other on the color wheel.
  4. Triadic color scheme uses colors that are evenly spaced around the color wheel.
  5. Split complementary color scheme uses a base color and the two colors on either side of its complement.
  6. Tetradic – double complementary color scheme uses four colors arranged into two complementary pairs.
  7. Square color scheme uses four colors that form a square on the color wheel.
  8. Gradient color scheme uses a gradual change of color.

 

Overall, the color wheel can be a valuable tool for designing your home by making you understand the basics of color theory and how colors interact with one another. It’s very useful to keep as a red lining in your designing journey. 

Lighting

One aspect of lighting design that is very important, is layering different light sources. In which you use multiple sources of light to create depth, texture and interest in your home or to enhance specific elements and architectural features. Here are some ways to do so:

 

  1. Ambient lighting: This is the overall general lighting that provides a base level of light in a room. It can come from overhead fixtures, wall sconces or natural light sources like windows.
  2. Task lighting: This type of lighting is used to make specific tasks or activities more pleasant like reading books, cooking or working at a desk. It’s often provided by table lamps, under-cabinet lights, or wall-mounted fixtures.
  3. Accent lighting: This type of lighting is used to highlight specific features or elements of a space. Such as artwork, sculptures or architectural details. It’s often provided by spotlights, track lights, or picture lights.
  4. Decorative lighting: This type of lighting is used to add a decorative element to a space and can include chandeliers, pendant lights or wall sconces.

 

Each type of lighting serves a different purpose and combining them in different ways can help you to achieve a well-balanced and functional lighting design.

Window treatment

  • Curtains and drapes are fabric panels that are hung from a rod or track and are often used to control light and provide privacy. They come in a variety of styles, materials, and patterns and can be lined or unlined, depending on the desired level of light control and insulation.
  • Blinds are slats of material and typically made of wood, metal or plastic that are mounted on a frame and can be opened and closed to control light. There are several types of blinds, including horizontal blinds, vertical blinds, and roman shades.
  • Shades are similar to blinds but are made of a single piece of material that can be raised or lowered to control light. There are several types of shades, including roller shades, cellular shades and Roman shades.
  • Shutters are hinged panels that can be opened and closed to control light and provide privacy. They are often made of wood or synthetic materials and come in a variety of styles, including plantation-style shutters and colonial-style shutters.
  • Valances are decorative pieces that are mounted above the window to add an additional layer of decoration and conceal the top of the window treatment. They come in a variety of styles, including swags, jabots and cornices.

 

Each type of window treatment offers different levels of light control, privacy, and style. Therefore, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting a window treatment. 

Conclusion on light and color theory

Color and lighting are powerful tools that you can us to influence the mood and atmosphere of your home. Understanding the theory behind how they interact can help you make decisions when designing a room. It’s important to consider the color wheel, the different moods that can be created through lighting, and the importance of layering different light sources and natural light.

Using light to enhance color

Today I will share 5 ways to highlight colors in your home with one of my favorite colors: Orange.

 

  1. Use accent lighting to draw attention to orange accents in your room. This could be a lamp with an orange shade, or a spotlight shining on an orange piece of art. This type of lighting will draw the eye to the orange and make it the focal point of the room.
  2. Incorporate orange-hued light bulbs into your fixtures. This will give the room a warm and inviting ambiance and make the orange color pop.
  3. Use dimmer switches to control the intensity of the light. This will allow you to adjust the lighting to the perfect level for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a lively party.
  4. Experiment with colored light filters. These can be placed over light fixtures to change the color of the light. This can be a fun way to play with different shades of orange and create a unique look in your space.
  5. Use orange lighting as a backdrop. This can be achieved by installing orange-colored light in the background of a room, such as in a bookshelf or behind a piece of furniture, creating an orange-hued ambiance to the room. Which you can see in the bookshelf, bedroom and bathroom pictures in our frame of this week.

The specialty of orange in neutral color pallets 

Orange is a bold color that is often used to add a touch of energy, warmth and excitement to a home. In neutral color pallets orange can be that pop of color to incorporate a sense of liveliness, creativity and interest to your home. It can give your home a playful and exciting twist without it being overwhelming. And best of all orange can easily be incorporated in your home through lighting.  

 

Additionally, orange is a complementary color to blue, which is a popular neutral color. So it can also help to balance out a space and create visual interest.

 

By incorporating lighting techniques that we discussed, you can add a pop of orange to your home and make it feel more playful and energizing. So, don’t be afraid to play around with lighting and color to create the perfect atmosphere in your home.

 

In conclusion, the many ways in which orange can add warmth, energy and a sense of playfulness to the space in a neutral color palette makes it a versatile and effective color for interior design.

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Transitional Interior Design: The Best of Both Worlds

HOMESPIRATIONS

Transitional Interior Design: The Best of Both Worlds

Choosing between various styles can be quiet overwhelming if there are so many beautiful options to choose from. Let alone for your home in which you wake up every day, where you experience joyful moments, where you invite guests over, and where you feel comfortable to rest and energize for years to come.

 

But why would we choose? If you are like me and have so many ‘favorite’ styles, then this blog might be very interesting for you. Today we’ll talk about transitional interior design, which basically combines the best of both worlds with your favorite styles. Making it possible to create a home that is elegant, comfortable and timeless.

 

With transitional interior design there’s no longer need to change up your interior every other month just because you feel as if something is missing or want to try out a new style. With this style every style you want to try out can be seamlessly blend into your home.

 

What is transitional interior design?

 

Transitional design is all about balancing classic and contemporary elements to create a cohesive and harmonious look. It focuses on the use of clean lines and simple shapes, which can be found back in the furniture and minimal ornamentation. This creates a sense of simplicity as well as elegance and balances different styles in one space, making it feel more harmonious and cohesive.

Neutral Colors

One of the key elements of this style is the use of neutral colors. A neutral color palette allows you to mix and match different styles and patterns without overwhelming the space. Imagine walking into a room with a traditional wooden dining table, paired with sleek and modern chairs. The neutral colors make sure that these different styles melt together seamlessly and create a beautiful space.

Natural Materials

Another important aspect of transitional interior design is the use of natural materials.

This style incorporates natural materials such as wood, stone, and glass to add warmth and texture to the space.

These materials also help to create a connection to nature, making the space feel more comfortable and inviting.

Lighting

Another way to connect your interior to nature is through the use of lighting. Within transitional design different types of lighting is incorporated to create your desired moods and ambiances in your home. Such as chandeliers, pendant lights, recessed lighting, and table lamps. The key here is to keep it simple and functional, so the lighting doesn’t detract from the overall transitional look.

Types of transitional interior design

Depending on your specific elements and influences used in designs, you can use one of the following types of transitional design as a red line while designing.

 

  1. Traditional Transitional style incorporates traditional elements such as ornate moldings and elegant furnishings, with a more modern color palette and clean lines.
  2. Modern Transitional style combines modern elements such as sleek, minimalist furniture with traditional elements such as ornate moldings and classic artwork.
  3. Classic Transitional style is characterized by a timeless and elegant look, incorporating traditional elements such as classic furnishings and ornate moldings, with a neutral color palette.
  4. Rustic Transitional style combines rustic elements such as reclaimed wood and natural textures with more contemporary elements such as clean lines and neutral colors. An example can be found in our ‘inspiration in a frame’ board, at the top of this blog!
  5. Coastal Transitional style is characterized by a relaxed and comfortable look, combining coastal elements such as natural materials and light colors with clean lines and simple shapes.
  6. Industrial Transitional style incorporates industrial elements such as exposed brick, concrete, and metal with more traditional elements such as warm woods and plush fabrics.
  7. Art deco Transitional style combines the elements of art deco design with a more modern and minimalistic approach, often featuring geometric shapes, bold colors, and luxurious textures.

 

You can adapt and blend these different styles so that it suits your own preferences and personal style. We are excited to see how you decide to use these styles in your home, so share your creation with us through our contact form and maybe you can find your home the next week in our ‘home tour’ selection!

Tips

Before we let you designing your dream home with the use of transitional design, we selected the following important tips to get started:

 

  1. Use a neutral color palette: A neutral color palette is the foundation of a transitional interior design style. Use colors such as white, beige, gray, and taupe to create a cohesive and harmonious look.
  2. Create a focal point: Use a statement piece of furniture or artwork as a focal point in the room to add interesting twists and accents to your spaces.
  3. Mix and match different styles and patterns: Don’t be afraid to mix and match traditional and modern elements to create a unique and interesting space.
  4. Incorporate natural materials: Use natural materials such as wood, stone, and glass to add warmth and texture to the space. This also helps to create a connection to nature, making the space feel more comfortable and inviting.
  5. Use clean lines and simple shapes: Incorporate furniture with clean lines and minimal ornamentation to create a sense of simplicity and elegance. This approach helps to create a sense of balance in the space, making it feel more harmonious and cohesive.
  6. Mix old and new: Mix vintage and antique pieces with contemporary elements to create a space with character and personality.
  7. Layer the lighting: use different types of lighting, such as chandeliers, pendant lights, recessed lighting, and table lamps, to create different moods in the space.
  8. Play with textures: Use various textures such as velvet, linen, or wool to add depth and interest to the space.

Conclusion

Transitional interior design is the perfect way to blend traditional and modern styles in your home. By using neutral colors, natural materials, clean lines, and simple shapes, you can create a beautiful and functional space that reflects your personal style and taste. Let us see how you embraced this designing style into your home through our contact format and maybe you’ll see your home back the next week in our ‘home tour’ selection.

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