Monday, August 3, 2009

Bookends

Bookends are one of the most utilitarian and decorative gifts for any occasion. By definition, bookends are objects specifically designed to buttress or prop a row of upright books on a desk, table, or on a partially-filled bookshelf. Bookends have become an important home décor item ranging from the very simple bookend made of sheet metal that was patented in the 1870’s to very elaborate works of art featuring classic images or whimsical characters. Many decorative bookends are made of bronze, or marble, and some even gleam with a silver finish. They often display images of professional life, hobbies, or nature, any of which make interesting and functional accent pieces to give as gifts or to enjoy in your own home or office.

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Weathervanes

Wind-swept, sloping green hills, a little cottage perched on the crest, surrounded by a white picket fence, with a weathervane atop the pointed, shingled roof. Everyone has envisioned such a breath-taking scene at some point. Weathervanes' iconic association with such scenes, and other lovely images of country living, inspires many persons to go about obtaining one of these unique decorations for their own homes, whether they live in the country, in the suburbs, or even in a city. These pieces can be found in many different sizes, featuring many different designs - from doves to airplanes to sailboats to dragons. These objects are so loved that they are sometimes displayed inside people's homes on metal stands, rather than outside. These pieces, first derived for the functional purposes of agriculture, weather-prediction, and farming, are today used, not only for the original purposes, but also as unique home decoration pieces.

Friday, July 10, 2009

Ways to get both storage space and style - Stools

Stools, benches, and stepstools are, out of all furniture, some of the most difficult to choose to fit with the mood and theme of a room. There are certain themes, however, which lend themselves to being outfitted with these pieces. For example, Retro barstools can take us back to the days of ice-cream parlors with gleaming chrome and bright colors. For a sweet and elegant theme, ornate stepstools, modeled after ornamental keepsake boxes and treasure chests, can be the essential finishing touch. For a space that is meant to be both fun and functional, apholstered rolling benches and tiki stools can be used to create a comfy place to sit and to provide storage space. In order to match these items with a room and a set of furniture, both the theme and role of the room must be considered; such items as stools, benches, and stepstools are unique in that they contribute to a room not only in terms of decoration, but also as functional pieces.

Friday, April 17, 2009

Personalize Your Garden Decor

Just as your choices of home décor can reveal who you are, so should your choices in garden décor. Sonorous chimes, beautiful arbors, inviting benches, self-contained patio fountains, and intriguing sundials on cast-iron pedestals can all be decorative touches that reflect your style. Garden statues and plaques can be either whimsical or sophisticated while old fashioned whirligigs and bewitching garden gnomes and sprites impart a fanciful quality to your garden. Carefully selected functional items such as clocks, thermometers, weathervanes, and planters can also be used to create a distinctive outdoor setting. Don’t let sundown limit the use of your garden; candles and solar lighting will allow you and your guests to further enjoy your special site far into the night!