Rose Interiors

Decorative Accessories That Are Versatile

2011-02-26T13:39:00.001-05:00

I like to decorate with accessories that can create more then one look or serve more then one purpose, it makes decorating more fun, flexible and affordable. That is why I am introducing my new line of versatile accessories "VA". Here is my newest design, an aqua pillow cover with purple and ivory fabric flowers.

This pillow has fabric flowers that are pinned to the pillow cover. The flowers can be easily removed and re-arranged to create a variety of looks.

For more information on this pillow click here

How To Decide on a Color Scheme

2011-01-25T22:52:00.000-05:00

Have you decided to re-decorate one of the rooms in your house? Maybe you've decided to fix up what was once your daughters room... after all she got married and moved out 6 years ago..... or maybe you've decided to make over the living room, or to finally finish the basement. Whatever decorating project you intend to begin, the best way to get started is with a plan. A well thought out plan will help you save money by avoiding costly mistakes. A plan will also save you both time and energy.

The first step is to decide on a feeling or theme you want the space to have. If you don't have a color scheme or theme then you could start by creating a wish list filled with items you like that could be found at your favorite vacation spot. To create your list go to an on-line shopping site where you can select from a variety of different shops. After selecting at least a dozen items you are likely to see a trend or two. It could be your selections are creating a specific color scheme, for example... most of the items are blue and tan. Perhaps the majority of furnishings are more formal then casual or you have selected a lot of soft and pretty furnishings. Use the trends as inspiration for you decorating project. I love boating and the ocean so that was the general theme I began with. I went to http://www.etsy.com/ and created this wish list of items.

After analyzing my wish list I realized I really liked the color combination of shades of blue and tan, as shown in this bathroom

I also found items I fell in love with and may eventually purchase like this amazing closeup photograph of a peacock flounder (look close and you can see the eyes of this fish). Their skin has a wonderful pattern that changes color to keep them hidden on the sandy bottom. Personally, I like to surround myself with reminders of how awesome nature is, and this photo does just that.

This lovely bedroom with the starfish on the wall shows that a room can feel playful and fun without being too casual.... a feeling I would like to incorporate in my room. By creating a wish list on-line and analyzing my selections I was able to develop a foundation for my decorating plan. My color scheme will be shades blue and tan. The room will have a playful but sophisticated feeling with accessories that remind me of the ocean.

New Years Resolution... Take Time To Smell The Roses

2011-01-03T21:52:00.001-05:00

Floral pillow from Rose Interiors

It's a new year and a good time to decide how you can make 2011 better for yourself then 2010 was. I believe it's important to include plans in you new years resolution to nourish and even pamper yourself personally. That can include having a special place in your home that you find soothing and relaxing. Color is an important design element that can help you create a nourishing, peaceful space. I love the color blue, it reminds me of the ocean and boating, which is one of my favorite things to do. I look at these items and can imagine taking the time to enjoy a cup of tea after lighting a candle and snuggling under a comfy quilt.

Blue and white china candle

cozy quilt

pretty teapot

You are more likely to take the time to take care of yourself if you have a special place in your home where you love to just hang out. Decorate it with your favorite colors and things that make you feel good.

click here to see more blue and white accessories

What to Give Unexpected Guests

2010-12-20T15:42:00.001-05:00

I love it when unexpected guests show up at my holiday gatherings. I think the more the merrier and I am happy to be able to open my home to friends of friends and family. In an effort to make everyone feel welcome I like to have some extra little gifts on hand so no one is left out. I keep these four things in mind when purchasing these gifts....

1. I have different gifts for men, and women.

2. Each gift should be unique, which is why I like to get gifts from http://www.etsy.com/ This web site sells hand made items that are different from what you find in your neighborhood stores.

3. Each gift costs no more then $15.

4. Each is something I would use myself or would feel good about giving as a gift later in the year. This way the gift won't go to waste if I end up with more gifts then guests.

Here are some examples of the types of gifts I like to have on hand:

Beautiful handmade soaps are something everyone can enjoy. It is an indulgance many people do not splurge on for themselves which I think makes it a perfect gift. Everyone uses soap, why not give a gift of a special one like this soap which is made with shea and cocoa butter.

This small leather wallet is perfect for holding business cards, driver's license, credit card, metro-card and some cash. It makes a practical gift that is sure to be appreciated.

This small mirror is a pretty and functional gift, perfect for a women to keep in her handbag. . The mirror has been backed with polymer clay and has a picture carved with a sculptural decoration.

Holiday Decor That Glimmers and Shines

2010-12-16T19:01:00.001-05:00

So you're not into decorating with bright colors like red and green, however, you want to add a decorative wow factor to your homes' decor for the holidays. Consider decorating with accessories that sparkle and shine like this elegant bouquet of white fabric roses with glimmering pearl beads.

Decorate with seasonal items that have been painted a neutral color, preferably with a metallic finish like these charming little acorns. You can use an item like this to scatter around the dinning table to add some glitz...... or use them to fill a giant brandy snifter ...... or add them to a wreath or garland, the options are many.

This whimsical mobile can be a dramatic addition to your holiday decorating. It is hand made with pearls and acrylic crystals. Two swans are perched upon the spiral encrusted design. Watch as the design twirls in the air with a feeling of elegance and tranquility Can you think of a more gorgeous way to dress up your holiday decor. Sure to become a treasured heirloom!

These glittering coasters are handmade with tiny mirrors and gold circles. They will surely add to your festivities with glamor and glitz.

This gorgeous fused glass bowl will make a magnificent centerpiece. It has a different look from every side. It is a wonderful icy, crystal clear tangle ready for bright oranges or apples or to display on its own! The bowl is shaped to give it a flat bottom and higher sides. It measures approximately 14 inches wide and 7 inches high. and weighs 3 lbs.

These are just some ideas for ways to decorate for the holidays without using the traditional holiday colors. Each of these items are hand made, which I think makes them truly special and unique.

Decorate With Red For The Holidays

2010-12-15T14:11:00.004-05:00

Add a touch of the holidays to your home decor with red accessories. It does not matter if your style is modern or traditional..... red accents will brighten up the dreary days of winter while adding a festive feeling. You can use a variety of items like decorative pillows, flowers, candles and seasonal accents.

In order to make an impact, it is a good idea to have a minimum of 3 red accent pieces around the room. They do not all have to have a holiday theme. You can use this floral arrangement to decorate year round. It is fun however to include at least one or two playful items like the Christmas stocking shown below

This fun stocking will add a touch of whimsy to your holiday decorating.

Elegant red and white rose's will make a beautiful addition to your table setting and can be kept out all year.

This Beautiful red candle will add a warm glow to your holiday decor

Inspired by Nature

2010-11-02T01:00:00.000-04:00

Designing new products is one of the things I enjoy most about my job. I only need to look out the window by my desk to find inspiration, especially this time of year when the leaves on the trees are changing color. It's amazing to see the leaves change from green to rust on one tree and from green to gold on another tree.

The bold contrast in color inspired this black pillow with the copper colored flower. When decorating with accessories look to nature for ideas. Update the colors in your home with new accent pieces that reflect the changes that are happening outside.

Retreat to Your Own Back Yard

2010-06-18T15:39:00.005-04:00

Summer is here and it's time to enjoy the outdoors. Don't wait to go away on vacation. Why not turn your own back yard into a vacation retreat you can enjoy every day. There is nohing like relaxing under a shady tree on a hammock after a hectic day.

This hammock is made for two people to enjoy. Extra wide and very sturdy it is made with cotton rope to hold a maximum weight of 420 lbs. Just imagine enjoying a lazy afternoon with someone you love, daydreaming and counting the clouds.

Change Your Environment

2010-06-09T15:53:00.007-04:00

There is a feeling of things being out of control; with banks needing bailouts, government budget cuts, the oil disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, with all of this going on it can make you feel powerless. That is one reason I think now is the right time to take charge of the only environment you have control over….your home. Don't postpone those decorating projects you were planning.

It does not have to cost lots of money to freshen up your home and make it feel new and inviting. It could be a simple matter of re-arranging things you already have. Re-think the lamps in your bedroom...how would they look in your living room? Is it time to take the artwork in one room and hang it in a different room? How about the furniture in you family room, when was the last time you re-arranged the way it is set up? These are simple changes that can have a big effect and make a room feel fresh and new.

Of course a new paint color on the walls can work miracles and will not cost very much at all. Reorganizing your accessories and perhaps adding a few new ones are another option. For the greatest change add accessories that will make a big impact. That could mean introducing a large new wall hanging like this wall sconce.

Or introduce a bold new fabric table cloth and chair covers in the dinning room.

Add throw pillows in an exotic fabric like this one with a metallic leopard pattern.

The combination of re-arranging what you have, changing the color of your walls and adding a few new accessories can create an entirely new feeling in any room. The important thing is to make sure your home is someplace that nourishes and comforts you, a special place where you can go to get away from it all. After all, your home is probably the only environment you have control over, it should be a retreat that makes you feel good.

The items shown here are sold in my on-line store http://www.roseinteriors.com/

Create a Garden Sanctuary with Soothing Sounds

2010-06-07T06:07:00.001-04:00

Turn your garden, or any outdoor space into a special retreat by adding the soothing sound of running water. This can be achieved by setting up a decorative fountain. If you have limited space you could go with a fountain that sits on top of a table or pedestal, or one that can be mounted on a wall. Of course if you have the space, why not go with a tall fountain that sits on the ground. In addition to adding the tranquil sound of running water a large fountain is a work of art that sets the tone of your outdoor living space. They can be modern, traditional or even playful in style. Here are some of my favorites.

Modern Art Sculpture Fountain

Playful Children's Fountain

Swan Wall Fountain

Tabletop Fountain

While many fountains require electricity in order for the pump to work you can also get one that is solar powered like the one below. This particular fountain would be a beautiful addition to a garden with an Asian theme, and it has the option of being powered by electricity or solar power.

Solar Powered Fountain

A Colorful Garden Without Flowers

2010-06-05T10:52:00.003-04:00

Maybe you don't have a green thumb, or perhaps you don't get any sunlight in your yard, or it could be watering restrictions that prevent you from growing lush colorful flowers. That does not mean you can't fill your garden, porch, patio, yard or deck with color. How about creating a colorful birdhouse garden

Flowershop Birdhouse

Casino Birdhouse

Florist Birdhouse

These fun birdhouses can be hung from trees at a variety of heights, or use shepherds hooks in the ground to hang them, or place them along side plants on a tiered plant stand. I like to line them up along the ledge on my front porch. I also use them as part of my table scape when I'm having an outdoor party. The options are many, the key is to have fun with them.

Outdoor Rooms

2010-06-04T15:03:00.002-04:00

A current trend in decorating is to create outdoor rooms. Not just pulling the garden chairs and tables out of the garage and setting them up in the backyard but actually decorating with outdoor fabrics, area rugs, fireplaces, colorful cushions, candles, fountains, wall art and just about any type of decorative accent you would use indoors.

Of course you want to make sure these accessory pieces work outdoors, which is why when it come to candles I like to put them in lanterns. Not only do lanterns make it safer to light candles out doors (they are sturdy and not likely to get knocked over) they also prevent the wind from blowing the flame out. Here are some of my favorites. The pretty etched glass lantern to the right is small enough (4"

x 4" x 5" tall) to place several around a dinning table

Statue Lantern ....Let the Wizard Shed Light in Your Garden 27" tall

Floor Lantern with a black metal stand

Chandelier Lantern

As far as I'm concerned you can never have too many candles, especially when sitting out on your porch, patio or terrace enjoying a summer evening. The gentle flickering of candle light creates such a relaxing atmosphere. As you can see there are many different style candle lanterns to select from. Place them on table tops or hang them from garden stakes or you can even hang them from a wall or ceiling on a porch. Remember decorating an outdoor room is the same as decorating an indoor room. Begin by deciding on how you want the space to feel...soft and pretty, casual, elegant etc. and then select furnishing to create the feeling you want. When it comes to lighting make sure you have enough to illuminate the entire area.

How to Hang a Window Scarf Slide Show

2010-05-11T15:24:00.003-04:00

3 Decorating Mistakes to Avoid

2010-04-22T12:10:00.009-04:00

A good way to save money when decorating your home is to avoid making costly mistakes. Here are three decorating mistakes many people make.

1. Buying furnishings before having a plan can result in impulse purchases of things that you may not need. The best way to avoid making this mistake is to decide on your personal decorating plan before you go shopping. Based on your plan make a list of what items you will need to purchase and stick to the list.

2. Painting the walls a "safe" neutral color that will go with everything can end up being a costly mistake. One of the least expensive and most effective ways to make a room look magnificent is with color. When the walls are painted linen white it is often necessary to add more fabrics and accessories in order for the room to feel furnished. Painting the walls a color costs no more, and can create a mood or feeling that brings a whole new design element to the room. The key is to first decide on the feeling you want to create and then use the right colors to achieve it.

3. Buying furniture that is not the right size for the room can bring costly consequences. When the furniture is too large it can make the room feel cramped and limit placement options. When it is too small it can necessitate buying more furniture than is necessary in order to create a sense of balance and make the room feel furnished.

No mater what your budget is, you are sure to save money if you begin with a plan.

How To Mix and Match Patterns

2010-03-24T15:00:00.008-04:00

An easy way to add interest to any room is to add accessories in a variety of fabrics. I know many people are afraid to mix and match patterns, however, it is really quite simple. Begin with a pattern that is already in the room. If there are no patterned fabrics in the room then find a print that has the colors from the room and a pattern that you love. Remember, decorating is emotional....you want to surround yourself with things that make you feel good.

Follow these 3 tips and you can't go wrong:

1. Have only one of each type of pattern....one large overall print like the floral above, one stripe fabric, one geometric like the diamond and one texture like the tweed.

2. Each of the fabrics you are introducing to the room should include one or more of the colors from the rooms' color scheme.

3. If the ambiance is extremely formal or very casual then the texture of the fabrics should reflect the feeling of the room. Silky fabrics or fabrics with a sheen like silk and velvet tend to be formal, while nubby textures with a dull finish are more casual. If the room is neither extreme, then you can add a combination of both textures.

Remember, your homes' decor should reflect your personal style.

Western Style Home Decor Accessories

2010-03-16T10:33:00.013-04:00

Do you love all things western? Perhaps you have great memories of a vacation you had on a dude ranch......or maybe it's the sense of adventure of the wild west that gets your imagination going.....or you could be like my husband and love old cowboy movies. Decorating with a western theme can be a fun way to personalize a room.

Use accessories that say "wild west" like these to set the stage. The waste basket below with the leather trim and horse shoe would be a nice addition to a home office or a child's room.

This wall hook with the cowboy boots is both practical and decorative.

The wall mirror below with the western frame would be a fun addition to any room.
Earth tones are a good choice for a western theme, a color scheme including the color rust with shades browns and tans. Wooden furniture could have a distressed finish with either a weathered looking stain or dark wood tones. Black wrought iron, burnished copper and
brass would be my choice for metal accents; and a soft leather on the sofa and chairs would pull the entire look together.

Remember, when decorating your home surround yourself with things that make you feel good. You may not want your entire home decorated with a western theme, however, if you love western decor then find one room in your house to show off this fun side of you.

Dress Your Windows for Spring

2010-03-11T10:41:00.011-05:00

Spring is just around the corner. It is the time of year I love watching my garden come alive as the leaves on the trees start to show their colors and the tulips emerge from the ground. It is amazing to watch as the earth gives birth to an array of colorful flowers. Now is a good time to welcome the outdoors in by removing heavy drapery panels that block out the light and the view. You can replace them with sheer swags that softly frame the window.

Above is a single scarf that frames the window and softens the look of the wood blinds.

Here there are two swags draped on the same foam rod to create an asymmetrical design. In both pictures the window scarves are hung on a foam rod. This type of rod simplifies creating the swags because you are able to pin the scarf to the rod and control the fabric.

How to Organize Your Bookshelves

2010-02-25T09:58:00.007-05:00

Bookshelves can be an important design element in a room; unfortunately, they often become a catchall for unrelated objects and end up an eyesore. With a little bit of planning and the creative use of accessories bookshelves can become an important design feature.

Even a small shelf unit like this one can add charm, and be a good way to feature treasured keepsakes.

Here are some tips for how to arrange bookshelves.

If you have matched sets of books then put them together on the lower shelves, stacked side by side, to create a solid foundation. If you do not have matched sets, then group books of similar size together on the bottom shelf
On the middle shelves arrange groupings that include accessories and books. The accessories could include a small piece of art on an easel, decorative plates or bowls, candles, statues or other collectibles.
For added interest make sure each grouping includes a variety of heights. Lay a couple of small books down on their side, next to a tall vase or candle holder. Also try to include a variety of shapes.
Add color with candles or plants. Include a variety of textures like wood and glass and metal all in one grouping.
If you have over sized books too tall for the shelf they can be placed flat with other books stacked on top of them.
All of the books should be brought to the front edge of the shelf for a neat, uniformed look.
It is usually a good idea to remove the dust jackets and display the books binding.
Use the top one or two shelves to display art or other accent pieces. This will help create a balanced display.

An organized and balanced arrangement can make your bookshelves a beautiful design element. Keep them feeling fresh by using seasonal items as part of the presentation. If after organizing your shelves you find the need to add more accessories please visit my on-line store http://www.roseinteriors.com/ .

Ideas for Arranging Living Room Furniture

2010-02-16T13:09:00.008-05:00

This is a great time of year to re-arrange your furniture. Especially if you are like me and you are stuck in doors because of all of the ice and snow outside. No need to go shopping, just work with what you have to create an entirely new to a room set-up.

Having your furniture pulled away from the walls in the living room can create an inviting and comfortable grouping. One of the challenges to setting up the furniture this way is "where to put the electric cords from the lamps". For some of my clients we placed an electric outlet in the floor under the sofa. This option however creates a permanent change you may not want to live with. See the layout below to see another way to deal with the cords.

In this layout there is a table lamp on either side of the sofa. The dotted red line represents the cord. One cord runs under the sofa; both cords plug into the outlet on the wall under the window. By placing the table under the window you are eliminating a pathway where people could walk and trip over the cords, making it possible to plug them into the wall. Placing them here keeps them out of site. An extra safety measure would be to tape them down to the floor. If you use tape make sure it is a color that will blend in with the floor you are taping to.

Another consideration for this type of an arrangement is having enough lighting. Here, in addition to the lamps on either side of the sofa, there is also a lamp on the table under the window and a floor lamp in the corner. Of course a ceiling fixture or wall sconces could also be used. It is important to have light in all sections of the room. You can use dimmers to control the light and keep the room from getting too bright, or just use low watt light bulbs.

One more thing to consider when creating a seating arrangement like this is to make sure you have a minimum of 3" to walk through the room. The above layout has 36" on three sides of the arrangement, which is enough to easily go from the entrance of the room to the wall with the sliding glass doors.

If you have any questions regarding a decorating project please contact me at info@RoseInteriors.com

Save Money on Your Heating Bill

2010-02-12T12:18:00.011-05:00

Cell shades (also known as honeycomb shades) can save you money on your heating and air conditioning bills. They work like a storm window and trap the air in the cells. In the winter they keep the heated air in and in the summer they keep the cool air conditioned in. As shown below you can get single, double or triple cell shades, the more cells the more energy efficient the shade.

They can be light filtering and are available in a large assortment of colors and fabrics. Even the light filter ones block out up to 90% of suns damaging ultra violet rays.

The shades shown here are made by Hunter Douglas and come with a lifetime warranty.

Working from Home

2010-02-10T13:28:00.005-05:00

I am glad I work from my home and I don't have to commute. Here is a photo from my office window....it was taken at 1pm and the weather man says there is lots more snow on the way. My window is over the front porch and it looks like the tree may come through the porch roof. I think it's time to get some of that snow off of the branches.....working from home does have its advantages, however, sometimes extra little jobs pop up.

Ideas for Setting a Beautiful Table

2009-12-15T18:01:00.006-05:00

Tablecloths are the foundation of your table setting, use them to help create the ambiance for your event. Do you want a formal feeling or more casual? Perhaps playful or festive would better describe the gathering you are planning. The colors and materials you choose for your tablecloth, napkins, runners and accessories can set the tone.

Of course there are a variety of materials you can select from, including paper which is more casual and can be thrown away after being used, making clean-up easy. There is a large assortment of paper goods to choose from including specific holiday themes. A vinyl table cloth with paper napkins is another option, which also tends to be more casual and is often used for outdoor affairs or a children's party. A third choice of course is fabric, which can be used for either a formal or casual occasion.

I prefer to use fabric tablecloths. They may cost more to purchase, however, in the long run they are less expensive then paper because they can be used for years. You can put them with matching or coordinating fabric napkins or with paper napkins. Unlike the table linens our grandmothers used, today tablecloths are available in a large selection of washable fabrics that are easy to maintain. The key is to wash them in cold water and dry them in a cool dryer, removing them from the dryer as soon as they are dry.

As far a color goes, your cloth should coordinate with the room the table will be set up in and with you china pattern. For added interest, select a tone on tone cloth like a damask, or a textured cloth like a pin tuck or crinkle. The food should be the focal point of the table, do not select a cloth with a busy pattern or print that will take away from what is on the menu.

Use accessories like napkin rings, a centerpiece, candle holders or a table runner to indicate the theme of the party. If the themes colors (green for Saint Patricks' Day or red for Christmas) do not go with your rooms color scheme then use neutral accessories that look good with your decor. You can still make it special and festive by using fun, over the top glittering accents you would not use everyday. Or use natural items that are appropriate for the occasion like dried leaves and acorns for Thanksgiving or rose petals for Valentines day,

One way to change the look of a plain tablecloth is to add a transparent, shimmering organza overlay;or sprinkle sequins or glitter on top of the cloth. The idea is to make it special and different from what you do every day.

To determine the size your tablecloth should be, measure the length and the width of your table and decide how much fabric you want to come down on each side (that is the drop). Add the drop X 2 to the table dimensions and this will give you the size the cloth should be. For a formal look you can have the cloth go to the floor. If you add a leaf to your table remember to add in the size of the leaf.

Tablecloth Colors and Texture.... How to Use Them to Create the Perfect Setting

2009-11-08T11:37:00.009-05:00

When deciding what color tablecloth to use, keep in mind the food should be the focal point of any table setting. I suggest avoiding a cloth with a busy pattern. The cloth should compliment your rooms decor and your china pattern.

Select a color that is already in the room. It does not have to be the exact hue, it can be several shades lighter or darker. Be sure that it also looks good with the china and serving pieces you will be using. Add interest by selecting a color that contrasts the dinnerware while complimenting it.

The texture of the fabric you choose can also add interest and set the tone (formal or casual). The three cloths shown below all have a sheen to them which tends to make them more formal. Their lustrous surface along with their tone on tone pattern create interesting textures without being busy.

All of these cloths are machine washable and are available in a variety of colors and custom sizes. Visit http://www.roseinteriors.com/ for more information

Tablecloths Can Create an Elegant Setting

2009-11-04T18:29:00.015-05:00

Tablecloths can be used to set the mood for a party or event. The beautiful damask cloth shown below creates a formal setting. Don't be afraid to be creative when setting the table, mix and match patterns as we did below by adding a stripe table runner and napkin rings.

Tablecloths are the foundation for creating beautiful table settings. Use them to help create the ambiance for your event. Do you want a formal feeling or more casual? Perhaps playful or festive would better describe the gathering you are planning. The colors and fabrics you choose for your tablecloth, napkins, runners and accessories can set the tone.

The tablecloths, napkins and table runner shown here are available in variety of colors and custom sizes at http://www.roseinteriors.com/

Have a Spooky Halloween

2009-10-16T10:03:00.025-04:00

If your Halloween is going to include ghosts and goblins then the right lighting is an easy way to create a spooky atmosphere. Turn off all the electric lights and light the room with candles. Put them every where... on tables and shelves, on top of amoires and cabinets. To avoid a fire put each candle in a lantern or votive holder like the ones shown below.

Halloween Ideas

2009-09-27T10:18:00.014-04:00

A fun idea for celebrating Halloween is to return to the 50's....you remember, "Happy Day's" and "the Fonz". What a great theme for a Halloween Party......good music, comfort food, fun dances like the bop, the hand jive and the lindy. Here are some things you may want to consider when planning your 50's party.

Pink and black were the hot colors in the 50's, so use them to decorate with. How about a pink table cloth with black paper plates and accessories, have pink and black balloons and streamers hanging from the ceiling, and don't forget the fuzzy dice..... and the costumes can be poodle skirts for the girls and white tee shirt's (with the sleeves rolled up of course) and jeans for the guys.

Not only do you have great music to choose from, but the 50" had some great dances'....check out this youtube video and get inspired. Imagine what fun it can be.......have someone come as Dick Clark and set up your own American Bandstand dance contest......or invite an Elvis (or two),

and make sure your serving foods from the 50's like macaroni and cheese, meatloaf and pie for desert.

Decorating for Halloween

2009-09-26T14:08:00.011-04:00

I love Halloween....it's a chance to behave like a kid again. After all, how often do you get to play dress-up and spend a couple of hours acting like someone or something else? Decorating with playful accessories can set the mood weeks before the actual day you get to dress up. Halloween candles flickering around the house and Jack o Lanterns in the windows what better way to get ready for the costume party.

Have fun with this holiday.....give in to your urge to be silly, to act out....stop taking things so seriously.

Change Accessories with the Change of Seasons

2009-09-24T10:03:00.011-04:00

Bring the warm golden glow of Fall indoors with these beautiful candle holders. Whether your style is modern, like this pair of tealight holders, or traditional, like this elegant lantern, you can add a warm amber color to any room with either of these beautiful candleholders.

When selecting candles to go in them, consider using ones that add "seasonal scents" like pumpkin or apple spice....let all your scenses enjoy you homes' decor

scarf system slideshow

2009-06-17T05:40:00.002-04:00

Watch How Easy It Can Be To Hang A Window Scarf

Contrasting Colors Create a Beautiful Window Fashion

2009-03-19T22:21:00.009-04:00

The striking contrast in color of this neutral ivory swag against the sage green wall creates a beautiful window fashion. Lining the jabots in a darker shade adds even more interest.

Set a Beautiful Table Scape with this Reversible Runner

2009-03-19T21:07:00.013-04:00

This table runner is reversible with a sage green diamond pattern and stripe edge on one side and a burgundy, sage and ivory stripe on the reverse side. Shown here with a beautiful bouquet of white roses. I love dual function products like this that give you more value for your investment. Click here to see this floral arrangement

Pattern and Texture Combine to Create a Beautiful Setting

2009-01-30T13:17:00.004-05:00

In this older home a combination of patterns (a stripe and a flame stitch on the walls) coordinate beautifully with the embroidered sheer shade and the multi colored swag. I am often asked for window treatment styles that feature the windows moldings. Here is one with the fabric shade mounted inside the molding and the swag under the top molding. If you want to see more of the moldings just eliminate the swag.

The Holiday Decorations Are Gone

2009-01-09T09:30:00.023-05:00

I just finished putting away the last of my Christmas decorations, the tree is gone, the garland has been removed from my banister, the poinsettia has lost its flowers and the holiday candles have melted away. Even the lights we hung from the roof are stored away until next year. The result.......my house feels naked. It's time to refresh my accessories.

So out come the candles. I have them in all shapes and sizes and especially enjoy them in the living room where we tend to relax in the evening. In addition to candles I enjoy colorful oil lamps like the ones above. They add a warm calming glow that is in stark contrast to the dormant cold New York nights. Visit our on line store to purchase these.

Get The Most For Your Money With Decorative Accessories

2008-10-10T16:12:00.020-04:00

Accessories can often be used for more than one purpose. This vase can be used for flowers or used to chill a bottle of wine.

To see these and more of our accessories for the home click here

Accessories With More Than One Function

2008-10-10T15:42:00.005-04:00

I love finding products that can be used for more than one purpose. It makes me feel like I am getting more for my money when I can use something more than one way, like this birdbath that is meant to go in the garden. It can also make a beautiful centerpiece when it is filled with flowers, or fruit, or floating candles.

Decorate for Autumn

2008-09-29T20:56:00.004-04:00

As the days get shorter and the weather gets cooler we tend to spend more time in doors with friends and family. One way to entertain if you run out of room for everyone to sit at the table is to set a beautiful buffet.

This crinkle cloth adds sparkle, the plate and candle holders add height and the warm color of the vase, candles and dinnerware add contrast. All the design elements you need for a beautiful table top setting.

The stack of Lap Linen Trays shown here set up with a plate, napkin and silverware make it easy for your guests to serve themselves. They are designed to stay securely on your lap allowing you to dine in comfort. Each tray set includes a foam insert which keeps the tray level and extensions that tuck under your legs to keep it stable. To learn more about Lap Linen Tray Sets visit http://www.roseinteriors.com/

Dress Your Windows With Fabric

2008-08-06T10:11:00.001-04:00

Use swags to softly frame a window and create architectural interest. By hanging the swags from blocks with the center swag higher than the two end swags you can create the illusion that the window is arched and taller than it actually is. The casual folds add a nice contrast to the geometric diamond pattern on the wall while the faux silk fabric adds to the elegant feeling in this dining room.

Mounting the swags and jabots on blocks eliminates the need for an expensive rod or other decorative hardware.

Tip for Decorating a Small Space

2008-08-01T15:43:00.001-04:00

Decorating with mirrors can be an effective way to make a space feel larger than it actually is, however, you want to be aware of what the mirror will be reflecting before you hang it. If you hang a mirror opposite a staircase you'll see a second staircase; if you hang it in the dinning room opposite the entrance to the kitchen you may end up reflecting a sink full of dishes: place it across from a window and you will probably bring more light into the room. Before putting any hooks in the wall, check out the reflection you will see from various angles.

Hi Rose,
I am never sure how high to hang a mirror or piece of art on the wall. What's your opinion?

Sarah

Good question Sarah! Most people tend to hang their art or mirrors too high. A rule of thumb is to hang it so that the center of the mirror (or piece of art) is about 60" off the floor.

I Love Decorating with Accessories

2008-07-07T21:47:00.003-04:00

It doesn't have to cost alot and it can change the feeling of any space in your home.....changing accessories is an easy way to re-decorate . I get tired of things always looking the same. I know some people need consistency, and like to surround themselves with priceless works of art....not me! I would rather decorate with in-expensive accent pieces that I can re-arrange each season and perodically put away and replace with new pieces.

I don't think my way is right and the other way is wrong, I believe decorating is personal and you should do what feels good for you. When creating a table top arrangement be sure to use items of varied heights and shapes as shown here.

You can see the difference adding a table runner to this arrangement can make. The most expensive item shown here is the table and that costs only $99.95. All of these items are available at my on-line store http://www.roseinteriors.com/