Category Archives: Design Inspiration

Must-Consider Décor Pieces for Your Home

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What makes designing a room fun is the freedom to express yourself. If you gave ten people the same room to design, every space would come out differently. In fact, interior design has so much freedom that it becomes a fun and expressive art form in itself. 

While tailoring your space to your needs, you should also consider a few tried-and-true décor options. Some décor works well in every space and should never be overlooked. Whether you love Art Deco, Rustic, Modern, or Traditional designs, all these styles can thrive off of similar décor pieces. Here are three must consider décor pieces when creating your space:

Mirrors 

Incorporating a mirror in your design serves much more of a purpose than merely being able to look at yourself. In fact, mirrors help play tricks on our eyes when looking at a room. They allow light to travel more freely, and they can allow rooms to look much larger. This can help scale the room and give the room different-feeling proportions. If you have a long room or oddly shaped room, mirrors are the perfect remedy to help fix the balance in the atmosphere very discretely. 

Area Rugs 

Often overlooked, area rugs are perfect for making your room feel more welcoming. They offer warmth to hard surface floorings and can also help with the room’s aesthetics. Area rugs are great for helping to add texture to your space, which is interacted with daily. While not every rug works with every design, nearly every design works with a certain type of area rug. Try to find one to help enhance your styling in your home! 

Plants 

Natural elements have a direct correlation with how we perceive a space, and plants are no exception. They help improve air quality in our homes and make a space feel more alive. With a wide variety of plants to choose, you can get the perfect plants to help enhance your design. From succulents, flowers, trees, and herbs, you are sure to find a plant that works great with your design theme. 

So when you consider designing your home, make sure you think of these key elements.  They can help enhance your design without fluctuating your theme. They work great in every home and can help your design get to the next level. For more interior design tricks and tips, make sure to subscribe! 

How to Pick out the Right Lamp Shade

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You have finally found the perfect lamp for your end tables or the bedside table. But you probably have not given much thought to the type of shade you are going to use on the lamp. What many people do not realize is that the right lampshade can completely transform an average base into something quite beautiful. 

Selecting the right lampshade is crucial because purchasing one that is not proportionate to the lamp or that does not match with the decor of the room can make even a beautiful antique lamp look terrible. To help, here are some tips you can use to choose the right lampshade:

Height and Width 

As a general rule of thumb, the height of the lampshade should be two thirds the height of the lamp base. This ensures that the lamp looks evenly proportioned and is not too bottom or top-heavy. Sticking to this proportion also guarantees that you do not see any of the lamp hardware such as the wireframe around the bulb, which can look tacky when exposed. You may need to measure the lamp so that you get a shade that matches it perfectly.  

The lampshade should be at least a half-inch wider than the base of the lamp on each side. It is acceptable for the shade to be wider than the lamp itself, but you do not want it to extend as wide as the table. Depending on the location of the lamp, you do not want a lampshade that is too wide because you do not want to bump into it constantly.  

Getting the Right Shape 

The shape of the lampshade should match the body of the lamp for visual synergy. If the base of the lamp is tall and cylindrical, you might want to look for a tall drum shade. On the other hand, if the lamp has a round body and square base, the lampshade should be round with some roundness at the top. With a basic lamp, you can play around with different shaped shades.  

Color 

From burlap, silk, and paper, lampshades are available in a variety of colors and textures. You can take the opportunity to accent a particular color used within the space by opting for a lampshade that features that specific hue. Softer colors and textures blend in well in traditional settings while smooth colors express contemporary elegance.  

How do you pick out lampshades? We would love to hear your thoughts below in the comment section.

Timeless Decorating Tips

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When it comes to style, some of us can have short attention spans. Current trends in design easily catch our eye, and we cannot wait to mimic them; however, we understand that trends come and go. The key is finding the right balance by creating a timeless design with decor. Timeless decor never goes out of style, and best of all, it provides a classic look that will still look beautiful years from now! 

The great thing about curating a timeless design is that it serves as the perfect background, allowing you to implement other types of styles. Here are some few tips to help you achieve a timeless look while throwing in some trendier pieces:

Stylish Yet Functional

Large furniture pieces like your sofa, you no doubt plan on having it for many, many years to come. Therefore, you will want to select well-constructed, quality pieces. Since you will have this furniture for a while, you also want to make sure it is super comfortable. Additionally, be sure that the style of the furniture is not too trendy but also not dull. Search for items that are classically beautiful but will provide that timeless look that will transcend time.  

Keep the Colors Neutral 

Neutral color tones are the epitome of timelessness. In fact, neutral shades can work with just about any color or style. Such color palettes will give off a fresh feel that looks up-to-date no matter what is currently in style. Off-whites, beiges, and grays are some neutral colors that have stayed powerful. Trendy colors can be used in spurts as a featured piece. In fact, they look great against traditional neutral shades.  

Steer Clear

Since a timeless design is also classic, you will want to avoid over-decorating. Do not invest in pieces with busy patterns, shapes, and that are too oversized. If you are set on spicing things up, you can incorporate such bold colors and patterns in accent pieces and accessories.  

Mix Things up 

Timeless does not mean boring. Try mixing up the elements in your home. Combine decor items from different eras to keep things interesting.  

Creating a timeless look in your decor does not have to be complicated. Remember, to keep your furnishing functional, utilize neutral colors with clean lines, and add trendy colors as accents. In the end, it is all about personality and what you love best.

Helpful Tips for First-Time Dorm Students

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Wow, summer flew by, and you have three or four weeks before you enter college as a freshman! We know this can be a daunting task and one that can make you unsure, especially if you never lived away from home. We are here to help make the transition easier and give you some valuable tips for moving into a dorm.

You are about to enter the next phase of your life. These days will be some of the best in your life. Enjoy, go with the flow, try not to be shy and make sure to go to class! Below, you will find ideas about what to buy, styles, and decor choices with organizational options for your dorm. Let’s take a look!

Accent Color

Your dorm room will be freshly painted a neutral color like white, cream, or light beige. Most likely the woodwork and doors will also be painted the same color of the walls in a gloss or semi-gloss paint for easy cleanup. If you have a roommate or not, we recommend choosing an accent color and sticking with that one color. Regarding the psychology of color, think about using blues, greens, or soft yellows as your accent color. These three colors are calming, happy, remind us of nature, and put us in a great mood!

Area Rug

If you have been paying attention to design style for the last couple of years, you have noticed that many dormers have chosen faux fur and shag area rugs. These types of area rugs have a really cool look but are challenging to clean and are not as durable as other types of rugs. We recommend purchasing a braided rug or a traditional woven rug in a neutral color. If the rug is a neutral color, the room will look larger and will not show dirt like a light or darker colored area rug.

Utilize Wall Space

Do not forget that your wall space is not the entire room, your roommate has half of the space. Usually, the ceiling height is taller than the standard height of an average bedroom. Think about purchasing a lightweight cotton/rayon tapestry that is made with stunning colors and designs. These tapestries come in various sizes and are often inexpensive, but do the job of covering an ample empty space on the wall. Here is where you can bring pops of color in the space with your chosen accent color. Also, with all the new organizational trends, there are many different ways to organize your busy life like putting up a bulletin board that tracks and reminds you of important dates, to-dos, birthdates of family and friends, library notices, etc.

We wish you the best of luck on your new adventure! May the next four years be filled with good friends and great memories.

Warm Weather Home Transitions

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As the Arizona temperatures outside begin to rise, it is important to transition your home for warmer weather. A lot of our homes are still filled with items that resemble cooler months. We have a list prepared for homeowners to transition into the warmer weather months. Let’s take a look!

Your Bed

You may have accumulated heavier blankets and bedding for the cooler months. Now that the weather is warming up, you will want to remove heavy winter-type bedding and try to leave more breathable sheets and bedding on your bed. Store your heavy bedding in a convenient, easy-to-find place for when the weather begins to get cool. For now, you can stick to just your sheets and a comforter/duvet on your bed.

Your Decor

Spring and summertime decor tend to be filled with uplighting, bright colors. Store your winter decorations and bring out your cheerful, bright colored decor to display! From pineapples to palm trees, you can play around with trendy summertime themed designs for your home. Try incorporating some summery pillows, figurines, candles, and pictures in your home.

Your Products

Winter and summer definitely have different scents in the fragrance world. Be sure to swap out your winter scents for fruity scents this summer.

Your Windows

Let the sun shine in this summer by removing bulky, heavy curtains and replacing them with lightweight, breezy curtains. Make sure to take the time to clean off your windows and windowsills from any dust and debris that may have accumulated over the cooler Arizona months.

Your Plants

Who does not love greenery? Adding potted plants can bring life and brighten up a space. Try incorporating some fresh flowers whenever your budget allows for a fresh smell and look.

Your Closets

Bring your summer clothing to the front of the closet and your winter clothing to the back of the closet. Store bulky winter items in boxes and stash them away for the season.

This is one of the best seasonal transitions to prepare for because you know it will be filled with sunshine, friends, and flowers. What is your favorite thing to do over the summertime? We would love to hear in the comment section.

Why You Cannot Go Wrong with Cotton Furniture

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Textures like velvet and linen may be trendy, but you can never go wrong with plain, old-fashioned cotton. This is especially so when it is time to pick out furniture. If you are planning to purchase a new sofa or to reupholster an old one, you might be tempted to embrace popular textures like velvet or linen. However, if you are looking for something durable, easy to maintain, and worth your money, you might want to look towards cotton.  

Cotton Is Not a Boring Choice

Cotton does not have to be bland. Depending on the fabric, it can be pretty formal or modern chic. Cotton fabrics can take on many different patterns and looks based on the way it is woven. For instance, casual slipcovers are typically canvas-woven, whereas damask or velvet weave is reserved for more formal or elegant pieces.  

Choosing High Quality and Durable Cotton Furniture 

If you are searching for furniture that can last for several years to come, cotton is your best bet. For high-quality cotton, you will need to invest in cotton that is produced from long staples. Premium cotton produced from long staples provides a fabric that can feel just as smooth and luxurious as silk. Fabrics that use shorter fibers are less durable. You can typically tell the difference between long and short fiber pieces. When shopping for the perfect cotton furnishing, you will want to know if it was produced from long or short cotton fiber.  

The weave also determines durability. Muslin or percale woven cotton is thin and less durable than other cotton forms. You will find that heavier cotton fabric with densely woven threads are much more durable and lasts longer.  

Why Should You Choose Cotton Furniture? 

Cotton furniture will always be an excellent choice for upholstery. It is super breathable and does not trap in moisture or heat-this makes it comfortable to sit and rest on in Arizona. Also, cotton has good abrasion resistance, which means you can expect it to be long-lasting. If it is important to have a material that can be easily cleaned or that is washable, cotton is no doubt your best bet.  

For more household tips and tricks, be sure to visit our blog hub at Fulton Homes.

Using a Mirror in Your Decor

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Mirrors serve a variety of purposes in the home. They can be used to reflect light, visually expand small spaces, and they are aesthetically pleasing when implemented the right way. Before you start hanging mirrors around the house, it is essential to follow a few guidelines. Here are some tips for designing with mirrors:

Large Mirrors in Small Rooms

Use an oversized mirror in a tiny space to instantly create the illusion of depth. However, you do want to give some consideration to where exactly you place this mirror. For instance, in a small dining room, you should put the large mirror above the dining room table. The mirror will reflect the chandelier making the room seem more significant than what it actually is.  

Be Careful When Installing Mirrors in the Kitchen and Bedroom

While mirrors are not necessary for the kitchen, often homeowners use this as backsplashes. Mirrored backsplashes would require a lot of maintenance due to the fact that they are easily marred with visible watermarks and other types of stains.  

Mirrors in the bedroom are often used as the decor of this area. If you are set on using mirrors in your bedroom decor, you should place it in a not-so-obvious area such as up behind your headboard. 

Use Mirrors to Accent the Focal Point 

What is the focal point of your room? You can use mirrors to emphasize the focal point further. Try placing a mirror above a fireplace or as a piece of artwork. If the room lacks a focal point, you can use mirrors to create interest. You can also use lighting fixtures to enhance mirrors further.  

Visually Expand Narrow Spaces

Mirrors also work in areas of the home that often get neglected, such as staircases and hallways. Small horizontal mirrors can expand narrow hallways and staircases.  

The Mirrored Furniture Trend 

Mirrored furniture is a great way to utilize mirrors in your home’s decor. A mirrored coffee table, dresser, and nightstand are some subtle ways to add mirrors into your design by creating a chic and modern look.  

How do you use mirrors in your home design? Let us know below in the comment section.

Tips for Spotting Quality Wood Furniture Pieces

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Let’s be honest; no home is complete without some type of wood accent sprinkled throughout the house. Yet, finding high-quality wood furniture can seem nearly impossible. Often, you will find a piece of wooden furniture that looks great in the store only to discover that it is flimsy and built poorly. To avoid wasting your hard earned money, check out these tips for spotting poorly constructed wood furniture:

Is It Made from Solid Wood?

When shopping for wood furniture, you will want to check to see if it was constructed from solid wood. Solid wood is also referred to as hardwood or softwood. Generally, furnishings made from this type of wood material are constructed from single board pieces that are glued together since trees are not as naturally wide. Be sure to ask the associate if the entire piece is formed from solid wood or just specific parts of it. Common hardwoods you will find in stores is oak, walnut, cherry, and ash.

Is Plywood Furniture Worth the Investment?

Plywood is considered engineered hardwood that is formed with thin layers of solid wood on top of each other. A layer of stained and wood finish is applied in the final stage; this is also known as a veneer. What makes plywood an attractive option is that it can hold up in all kinds of climate. Also, it will cost you a fraction of a genuine solid wood piece. So, what are some of the drawbacks of investing in plywood furniture? The quality of plywood depends on the quality of the veneer used. A poor quality veneer often reveals a low-quality wood beneath the finish. Once it becomes damaged, the repair process can be complicated since the wood species, and the veneer is of different materials.

What is MDF?

Furniture labeled MDF, or Medium Density Fiberboard is derived from a combination of wood waste products and resin. MDF furnishing can be finished with a real wood layer or a non-wood laminate. MDF furniture is less expensive than plywood and solid wood pieces. Although it is budget-friendly, and it can be easily damaged and repairing it is very difficult.

When shopping for wood furniture, do your research. Take a close look at all of the products and compare their characteristics. Sometimes the quality of a piece will drive up the cost, but buying furniture is an investment.

Picking the Perfect Headboard

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A headboard can say a lot about a bedroom. It will make a bold statement and becomes the focal point of most bedrooms. Different styles of headboards can turn your boring, mundane bedroom into a tranquil oasis. But if you do not know where to begin, it can be a challenging process to decide. If you need guidance on how to select the perfect headboard for your space, be sure to keep on reading!

Floor to Ceiling

Try a floor to ceiling headboard as a luxurious addition to your room. This do-it-yourself hack can help exaggerate the height of your wall while adding a stylish decor to your room. Decorative wallpaper or painted-on stencils can also help complete this desirable look.

Tufted Fabric

Tufted fabric is an elegant look that adds class to your bedroom. You will want to pick a material that expresses you and incorporates style within the space. Nothing ties together a sophisticated room quite like a tufted headboard. You may have seen this style incorporated in hotels or spas. This is a great way to enrich your space and add flair to your room.

Bamboo Forest

If you are looking for a more natural appeal, bamboo is the way to go. Adding natural colors and hues can have your room feeling organic and energetic. Try incorporating woods, corks, and plants to your bedroom to transform a dull room and bring nature back indoors.

Smart Style Storage

Make your headboard out of functional storage compartments and shelves to free up space in your room and help hide clutter. This clever hack would not take up any floor space and can also be used to display vases, art, and plants.

Books

Are you looking for a creative way to use your unused, already read books? You can utilize your favorite reads by incorporating them into your bedroom design. This unique take on headboards can help add a creative twist to your space and let your dreams flow.

Window

Sometimes your room is not set up to have a headboard, but you can use a window. Do not shy away from the idea. Use curtains and shelving to complement your window and make it the focal point of the room. Embrace the window and use the view to make your headboard a living glass wall!

Headboards can complete your bedroom design. You can use your headboard for style or functionality. Let it express your needs and add your personal flair to the room.

Home Staging | Tips for Taking Care of the Inside

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Home staging is an incredibly useful tactic that interior designers use all of the time. Whether they are staging a model home, a newly remodeled home or helping sellers set up their home for the marketplace, staging your house can add value and increase appeal. For tips and tricks on staging your home, be sure to keep on reading!

Eliminate Clutter

You know those bins or boxes of packed items sitting in your living space; the ones that have to go but you have not had a chance to address. Before you begin designing your home, you want to start with a clean slate. That means any unwanted clothing taking up space in the closet, old furniture, and equipment that you no longer use. It is crucial to create a moveable environment for guests to be able to navigate the house without bumping into everything. Make sure you do not skip out on cleaning out the pantry, closet spaces, and the basement. Though often unseen, these areas can lead to hidden clutter.

Reorganize the Furniture

IIf upgrading to more stylish pieces is not in the budget, opt for organizing your existing furniture so that it complements the space. The right arrangement can make a room appear bigger. Play around with your furniture until you find the right angles. You may be surprised by what a new furniture layout can do for your room’s appearance.

Lighting

There is nothing that can make a home look super polished than a well-thought lighting scheme. Play up the natural lighting in a space by using sheer curtains or light drapes that allow the sun to stream into the room. Implement trendy lighting fixtures to brighten up corners and add extra light wherever you see fit.

Area of Interest

Whether it is the kitchen, living room, or the hallway, find an area in the home where you can create a focal point or an area of interest. A focal point will immediately grab the attention of guests. Plus, creating a focal point does not have to be expensive. A beautiful piece of artwork or using a patterned border around the walls can make a huge difference.

Thorough Cleaning

Before you invite guests, you should conduct a thorough cleaning of the interior. Polish the floors, organize the garage and basement and clean all of your surfaces. The purpose of home staging is to make your home look like a model home, something that is right from a home decor magazine.

Looking for more tips and tricks? Be sure to check out our blog hub here.