Blog

  • Contemporary

    Contemporary

    Transform Your Bedroom into a Sleeping Beauty

    When it comes to the bedroom, style and comfort are not mutually exclusive. The bedroom is where we sleep, feed our minds, recharge our bodies, and soothe our souls. Like any other room in your house, the décor should reflect your personality, interests, and lifestyle, while also promoting a sense of relaxation and calm to lift our body, mind, and mood.

    With so much inspiration out there, choosing a theme for your master suite will help you create a cohesive space that looks as good as it feels. Interior designer Eve Gunson, founder of design blog Dot + Pop, helps you define your slumber style.

    Contemporary

    Understated, sleek, and simple are some of the hallmarks of contemporary design. This goes for bedrooms, too. To get the balance right, Eve says to think minimal, but stylish – especially if you’re working with smaller spaces.

    "I tend to keep the color palette neutral, so that means greys, whites, and earthy tones," she says. "I always like to include natural elements somewhere – whether that’s a timber bed frame or bedside tables or including natural stone. It just adds a warmth to the space."

    The most important piece of bedroom furniture is, of course, the bed. Once you’ve chosen this, you can layer everything else on top. For effortless style, Eve says a timber frame can be a modern yet timeless tone setter. Mid-century-inspired pieces, which feature soft curves and elegant silhouettes, work beautifully in contemporary spaces.

    Natural

    Organic themes are having a moment right now – and it’s easy to see why. Not only does the blend of raw materials and textures create a sense of connection to the outside, but the earthy palette also adds an instant sense of warmth and cosiness.

    For a natural aesthetic, think distressed timber frames for a more raw look, or sustainably sourced messmate with in-built storage for a natural, yet clutter-free aesthetic. Then, accent with timber side tables, natural linens, and throw blankets, dried florals or greenery.

    "I always put artwork somewhere in the room," Eve says. "That then forms the basis of my color palette, which I’ve pulled through in my linen, pillows, and décor items."

    Classic

    Some styles are always in vogue. This couldn’t be truer for Hamptons-inspired aesthetics that strike a balance between modern farmhouse and rambling beach shack. Think French Provincial meets country luxe.

    Rich timber frames and luxe linens give a classic feel to any bedroom. Comfort is key when it comes to classic styling, especially in the bedroom. This elegant aesthetic is all about the details, embellished with timber frames in rich walnut or mahogany hues, or softened with upholstered bedheads paired with beige, cream, or grey linens.

    Luxury

    Luxury style is all about decadence – both in furniture and soft finishes. It can often make the space feel more like a retreat than a regular bedroom.

    From plush fabrics and excess drapery to an opulent color palette, when it comes to luxury, more is more. Layers are the key to nailing the look, starting with an upholstered bed head, perhaps with a tufted or buttoned finish for added detail.

    Think lots of layers when it comes to luxury style – the more, the better! Next comes the velvet throws, silks, ruffles, and rugs to add texture. The look is then elevated with contrast timber side tables, metallic-based lamps, or statement light fixtures.

    "For me, aesthetics come first," Eve says. "But you can’t forget functionality."

    In conclusion, when it comes to transforming your bedroom into a sleeping beauty, remember that style and comfort are not mutually exclusive. By incorporating a theme that reflects your personality, interests, and lifestyle, you can create a space that promotes relaxation and calm, while also looking beautiful. Whether you opt for a contemporary, natural, classic, or luxury style, with the right furniture, color palette, and accents, you can turn your bedroom into a haven that you’ll love.

  • Luminous Vaults and Arches Define Hengqin Culture & Art Complex

    Luminous Vaults and Arches Define Hengqin Culture & Art Complex

    Hengqin Culture & Art Complex: A Focal Point for the Area

    The Hengqin Culture & Art Complex, designed by Yunchao Xu/Atelier Apeiron, now stands as a new cultural landmark in one of China’s fastest-growing regions. Located in Hengqin, Zhuhai, the complex is poised to become a vital center for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

    The project marks a significant milestone in the broader development of Hengqin Island, an area that has seen rapid urban growth over the past decade. Positioned strategically at the crossroads of the Pearl River and South China, Hengqin has attracted billions in investment and is emerging as a hub for culture, creativity, and knowledge industries. The complex sits at the heart of this development, reinforcing the island’s role as a cultural beacon. See designboom’s previous coverage [here]!

    Innovative Responses to Complex Challenges

    Yunchao Xu/Atelier Apeiron won a competition to design the Hengqin Culture & Art Complex in 2018. The firm’s vision for the nine-block development focused on creating a cohesive yet flexible structure. The project aimed to integrate nine independent functions into a unified complex, accommodating the varied and sometimes conflicting needs of each department while maintaining the energy of a public space.

    Designing the Hengqin Culture & Art Complex presented several challenges, including the region’s susceptibility to typhoons. To address this, the architects selected a lightweight, flexible suspended glass curtain wall to withstand high winds. What’s more, the complex’s foundations required special attention due to the island’s silt layer, leading to the creation of a sealed basement with anchor points to ensure structural stability.

    A Diversity of Atmospheres

    The Hengqin Culture & Art Complex sits between residential towers and a city park, with Atelier Apeiron designing the structure to reflect openness and flexibility. The building takes shape with three large arches, each with a unique shape and function, which serve as gateways to different halls within the complex. These arches allow natural light to flow into the space, aided by skylights and reflective materials that distribute sunlight throughout.

    Nine distinct functions are housed within the complex, including a library, archives center, concert hall, art gallery, and several activity centers. The design divides these functions into three main ‘urban living rooms’: the Knowledge Hall, Performance Hall, and Exhibition Hall. Each space is designed to provide a unique experience while fostering a communal atmosphere. The Knowledge Hall, inspired by Finland’s Oodi library, features vertical stacks of books, while the Performance Hall and Exhibition Hall offer spaces for arts, culture, and scientific exhibitions.

    Conclusion

    The Hengqin Culture & Art Complex is a testament to innovative design and a commitment to creating a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Hengqin Island. By integrating diverse functions and fostering a sense of community, the complex has the potential to become a beacon for cultural exchange and creativity in the region.

  • Charleston Mattress Review in My Own Style

    Charleston Mattress Review in My Own Style

    Here is the rewritten content without adding new <img> tags, improving the article structure and text, and incorporating the conclusion section:


    • Pin on Pinterest

    • Flip on Flipboard

    I am excited to show you the guest room makeover I did in one of the rooms in my house. As an empty nester, I have two guest rooms, but in reality, I only use one, and that’s the primary bedroom on the main level. The other two bedrooms are on the second level, which we call the "Guest Level Suites." Each room has its own bathroom and a private deck outside the sliding doors.

    To get the room decorated, I went through my stash of bedding and decided to go with a white and green color scheme. I like to keep the decor in the room feminine, so my guests have a choice.

    I chose the Christeli Charleston mattress for its innovative cooling system, soft yet supportive top layer, and high-density foam for superior comfort and pressure relief. I highly recommend it for a good night’s sleep.

    If you have any questions, feel free to use the chat tab on their website to get all your questions answered.

    Bedroom Decorating Ideas You May Also Like

    I hope you enjoy this post!

    Note: I removed the introductory text, added the conclusion section, and rewrote the article to improve its structure and text. I also kept the original HTML tags and content, but did not add new <img> tags.

  • Choosing the Perfect Dining Room Rug

    Choosing the Perfect Dining Room Rug

    Here is the rewritten article:

    How to Choose the Perfect Dining Room Rug

    I know that feeling when you want to redecorate a room but have no idea where to start. That’s exactly how I felt about my dining room. With outdated ’90s chicken wallpaper that needed to come down and nothing but a dining table and chairs in place, it was hard to visualize how the finished space could look. I needed a starting point. Then it hit me—what I really needed was a great rug!

    Picking a rug is one of the most exciting parts of decorating a room. It’s a major visual element and can be an excellent focal point for a dining space. The right rug adds warmth, texture, and personality. But in a dining room, it’s not just about style—it also needs to be practical.

    I was thrilled to partner with Revival for this post because they’re one of my absolute favorite sources for rugs of all kinds. When picking from their selection, I knew I’d find a dining room rug I’d love for years to come. Finding something practical can sometimes mean limited style options—but not with Revival! They offer plenty of beautiful, easy-to-clean rugs in a variety of sizes and shapes, making it easy to find the perfect fit for both your space and your budget.

    Step 1: Find the Right Dining Room Rug Size

    Before anything else, you need to lock in the right size. As a rule of thumb, your dining room rug should extend far enough beyond the edges of the table so that chairs remain on the rug even when pulled out. Here’s a quick, general guide to sizing, but definitely take your own measurements!

    Step 2: Choose the Right Material

    Next, think about the material. Consider factors like durability, stain resistance, and maintenance. Some rugs are better suited for high-traffic areas, while others are perfect for low-traffic rooms.

    Step 3: Select the Right Color and Pattern

    Once you’ve identified which style you like best, you’ll have a variety of color and pattern options to choose from. Make sure you think carefully about your color palette and how your rug options will tie into your existing dining room furniture and flooring.

    Step 4: Consider Rug Pad and Underlayment

    To protect both your rug and floors, consider a rug pad—it prevents slipping and adds extra cushioning.

    Step 5: Explore Rug Color and Pattern Options

    Make sure to think carefully about your color palette and how your rug options will tie into your existing dining room furniture and flooring. This can also be a practical choice—If you’re worried about stains, darker rugs or busier patterns are great at hiding any spills or marks!

    How I Chose:

    I knew I wanted a lighter rug to contrast with my dark wood table and a pattern that would bring in other colors from my decor in other rooms. Luckily, Revival had plenty of options to choose from! I was so excited to find a light, patterned rug with some warm honey tones to coordinate with my hardwood floors. It was so exciting to see how well all the colors came together once I got my rug in place.

    Step 6: A Note on Dining Room Rug Maintenance

    To protect both your rug and floors, consider a rug pad—it prevents slipping and adds extra cushioning. For cleaning, spot-clean spills immediately and deep clean seasonally, depending on the material. Revival has great tips on how to clean each of their different types of rugs, so be sure to check out their advice when you make your purchase!

    Why I Love My Choice:

    Since my rug is washable wool, I don’t have to stress over spills or messes. It’s durable, soft, and easy to clean—perfect for a dining room where food accidents are inevitable!

    Conclusion:

    Choosing the right dining room rug is about balancing size, material, color, and function to create a space that’s both stylish and practical. My advice? Consider what you already have (in terms of your furniture, flooring, and general style aesthetic) and use the rug to enhance and connect those elements. And it sure helps if you shop at Revival—they have an incredible selection of high-quality rugs in sizes, styles, and colors to suit any living room. Take a look today and finally find that missing piece to your dream living room design!

  • 12 Money Saving DIY Cabinets for the Easiest Remodels Ever

    12 Money Saving DIY Cabinets for the Easiest Remodels Ever

    If you’re planning a home remodel, it’s possible to do it yourself with the right tools, tips, and tutorials. You can build your own DIY cabinets to makeover your kitchen or bathroom, add a pantry, or create built-in storage. From base cabinets to doors and everything in between, these amazing bloggers show you how they did it in their homes and take you through it with step-by-step directions and free plans.

    With the right guidance, you can create a stunning DIY kitchen or bathroom without breaking the bank. Learn how to build your own base cabinets, upper cabinets, or even a pantry, and add the finishing touches with our collection of DIY cabinet plans and tutorials.

    How to Build Cabinets

    DIY Kitchen Cabinets

    These free PDF plans for DIY kitchen cabinets from ‘Houseful of Homemade’ will walk you through the process of building your own kitchen cabinets, including tips and tricks to help you get started. They also offer plans for building drawers and more.

    For a budget-friendly option, check out ‘Designing Vibes’ DIY kitchen cabinets, which were made for under $200. You can use these plans to create a butler’s pantry, a kitchen, a family room, or even a bathroom.

    DIY Pantry Cabinets

    If you’re missing a pantry, don’t worry. You can build your own pantry cabinets with these plans from ‘The Handyman’s Daughter.’ She built this cabinet out of a single sheet of plywood!

    For a more rustic look, try building a barn door pantry cabinet with the free plans from ‘Ana White.’ This is a great way to store snacks and other items.

    Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DIYer, with the right plans and guidance, you can create a beautiful and functional space that meets your needs and budget.

    So, if you’re ready to take on a DIY project, start by finding the right plans and tutorials, and don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touches. With a little bit of planning and elbow grease, you can achieve professional-looking results without breaking the bank.

    Remember to also check out our other DIY tutorials and tips for more inspiration and guidance on your next project.

  • Easy and Scary Jack-O-Lantern Faces Anyone Can Carve

    Easy and Scary Jack-O-Lantern Faces Anyone Can Carve

    Halloween is almost upon us, and it’s time to make some fun of our fears. We want to really go all out for Halloween this year, with super easy but scary jack-o-lantern faces that anyone can carve! Perfect for lining the front steps, glowing inside a dark window, or peeking out from around the mums coming up the front walk. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a chance to simply laugh at all those things that go bump in the night? These jack-o-lantern ideas are the ticket, my friends. So, gather up the scooper and the scrapers, make sure your pumpkin knives are ready to go… these faces will be almost as much fun to carve as they will be to display!

     

    How to Make a Jack-O-Lantern

    Need to know how to make a jack-o-lantern? Here’s a great place to start. Check out these carving tips to help you turn these ideas into front porch fright mongers…

     

    1. Make a workspace. If you haven’t done this before, this is messy. Use newspaper, paper bags, something you can spread over the area and throw away later.
    2. Gather your supplies. You need a serrated knife or a pumpkin carving kit, a sturdy large spoon or scooper, a marker, and a candle. We love LED candles or firefly lights these days, but many people still like the nostalgia of using a standard votive candle.
    3. Using the great ideas below, or a pumpkin carving template, draw your design on your pumpkin. You can remove most marker with rubbing alcohol if you make a mistake. Also, draw a circle for your lid. It’s easy to get off track and cut your lid way larger than you intended, taking up space for your design.
    4. Cut the lid. Angle the knife 45 degrees inward as you cut, so that when you replace the lid, it won’t fall into the pumpkin.
    5. Scoop out all the seeds, and scrape out all the goop. You want the inside of the pumpkin to be clean and dry. Your pumpkin will last longer, and your candles will burn better. Learn how to roast pumpkin seeds from Jessica Gavin.
    6. Cut out your design.
    7. Pro tip… use a craft or X-acto knife to clean up any details.
    8. Make your pumpkin last by rubbing the cut area with petroleum jelly or cooking spray. This will help prevent mold from growing.

     

    These stainless steel jack-o-lantern face stencils eliminate the need for knives. You use the mallet and stencils to cut your design into the pumpkin. You get 16 different shapes to create custom jack-o-lantern faces. From Amazon.

     

    Finally, if you’re looking for scary jack-o-lantern face templates to help you create the perfect design, check out this set at Amazon. They’re reusable plastic, and can be used on more than just pumpkins!

     

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, with these easy but scary jack-o-lantern faces, you’ll be ready to take on the spooky season with confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, these tips and tricks will help you create a jack-o-lantern that’s sure to impress. So, gather your supplies, get creative, and have fun!

  • Bjarke Ingels Group Designs Bhutan’s Airport with Intricate Wood Carvings

    Bjarke Ingels Group Designs Bhutan’s Airport with Intricate Wood Carvings

    Traditional Architecture Revived with Modern Airport

    Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) has unveiled the design for the new Gelephu International Airport in Bhutan, an ornamental project that integrates the country’s traditional craftsmanship with modern architectural innovation. The airport features a modular diagrid structure made of glulam timber, adorned with Bhutanese wood carvings. This design, which will be presented at the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale, highlights the balance between ancient traditions and contemporary techniques.

    The Gelephu International Airport, located near the Bhutan-India border and Paitha River, is a key element of the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) masterplan, developed in collaboration with NACO, Arup, and Cistri. Designed to handle up to 123 flights daily, it is projected to accommodate 1.3 million passengers by 2040, scaling up to 5.5 million by 2065.

    BIG’s team at Gelephu International Airport pays special attention to showcasing Bhutan’s woodcarving traditions. Local artists will create intricate carvings that will adorn the timber structure, inspired by the revered ‘Kachen’ pillars of Bhutanese architecture. This approach celebrates the country’s cultural heritage while incorporating modern technology.

    The airport’s design blends Bhutanese traditional craftsmanship with modern architectural innovation. The structure highlights Bhutanese craftsmanship, including traditional techniques such as Shing-Zo (carpentry), Par-Zo (carving), and Lha-Zo (painting). The wooden carvings extend throughout the airport’s interior and exterior, creating a cohesive aesthetic that mirrors the country’s architectural heritage.

    A Forest Courtyard Connects Passengers to Nature

    Bjarke Ingels Group embeds Bhutan’s natural environment and cultural values into the design of the Gelephu International Airport. The arrival plaza is divided into four zones, each dedicated to native plants from the surrounding forests. The airport’s terminal, which resembles a stylized mountain range, integrates elements of traditional Bhutanese design, including carved timber dragons symbolizing the past, present, and future.

    Bhutan’s biodiversity is brought to the heart of the architecture. A central courtyard, called the Forest Spine, divides the terminal into domestic and international sections. It provides travelers with a calming connection to nature, featuring green spaces, a treetop walkway, and native flora. This design element reflects the emphasis on mindfulness and well-being, core values of Bhutan’s culture.

    The passenger experience is prioritized in the design of the Gelephu International Airport, ensuring intuitive wayfinding and efficient circulation. The upper-level gates, along with retail and dining areas, offer travelers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains. Additionally, the airport’s wooden structure and ventilated roofs are designed to respond to the region’s subtropical climate, enhancing comfort while reducing energy consumption.

    A modular glulam timber structure allows for future expansion and flexibility, while photovoltaic panels on the roof support Bhutan’s commitment to remaining carbon-negative. By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern architectural innovation, BIG’s design for the Gelephu International Airport sets a new standard for sustainable and environmentally friendly airport design.

  • DIY Thanksgiving Decorations & Ideas Your Fam Will Love!

    DIY Thanksgiving Decorations & Ideas Your Fam Will Love!

    Thanksgiving is a special time to appreciate the gifts and blessings in our lives, and for many of us, that means gathering with loved ones and creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in our homes. As you plan your Thanksgiving decorations, consider the natural beauty of the season and the simple, yet elegant, decorations that can be created using items from nature.

    One way to bring the outdoors in is to incorporate natural elements into your decor. For example, you can collect leaves on your next walk and press them between paper towels and a book to create a beautiful, rustic centerpiece for your table. You can also use these leaves to create a warm and cozy atmosphere in other areas of your home, such as on your hearth or under candle displays.

    Another great way to add a touch of nature to your decor is to use corn husks to create a beautiful and unique wreath. You can use the type of corn husks you buy in the Mexican food aisle of your local supermarket, along with a straw wreath and a hot glue gun, to create a beautiful and rustic decoration for your front door.

    For a simpler, yet still elegant, door decoration, you can use brown paper and faux fall leaves to create a beautiful and original holiday greeting for your guests. This is a great option if you’re on a budget, as it’s easy to find these items at your local dollar store. Just be sure to protect your decoration from the elements.

    In addition to these ideas, there are many other ways to create a beautiful and inviting atmosphere in your home this Thanksgiving. You can experiment with different combinations of items and decorations to find the look that works best for you. Happy Thanksgiving from The Budget Decorator!

    For more DIY Thanksgiving decorating ideas, be sure to check out our post on High Style, Low Budget Thanksgiving Tables, or visit OhMeOhMy for Elegant Thanksgiving Table Decor.

    And don’t forget to move on to DIY Christmas decorating! Start with our most popular holiday post, our DIY Mason Jar Christmas Luminary, and then check out our DIY Outdoor Christmas Decorations over at TGG.

    This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure for more info.
  • How to Make a Christmas Stocking

    How to Make a Christmas Stocking

    Here is the rewritten article:

    Stockings, Stockings, Everywhere! Not enough people make DIY Christmas stockings these days, and that’s a shame! Handmade stockings become a treasured collectible in many families, and are so much magical fun for the kids. It’s a simple sewing project! (We even have a no-sew version!) Here are some stocking decorating ideas and tutorials and some great links to learn how to make a Christmas stocking (or ten!) – a wonderful memory for your family, to be used and treasured through the years!

    DIY Christmas Stockings

    How to Make a Christmas Stocking

    Step One… Determine a theme for the person you are making the stocking…perhaps they like fishing, or cowboys, or ballerinas? I had so many kids to make for, I chose a toyland theme for the whole family, then made each stocking fit its owner. For instance, my baby girl was the angel, and my mischievous boy was the gingerbread boy! You may have an elegant little girl who might be perfect for a Victorian sock, or a little boy who loves Dalmatians! Step Two… Determine the material you want to use to make it! I chose felt, because it is cheap, sturdy, and simple to cut and add details. You also may want to consider fleece, or even corduroy or denim. By the way, it is even possible to make these out of paper…they make wonderful candy or gift giving containers!

    Step Three… Cut out two basic stocking shapes from your fabric…remember, when it comes to kids, bigger is better! You can either sketch out your own stocking on a brown paper bag and then trace onto the fabric, or use patterns that can be printed out on your computer and then taped together.

    Step Four… Slip a loop of ribbon between the two stocking shapes in the outside corner for a hanger…Sew the stocking shapes together, leaving an opening at the top. If you are using fleece or felt, you can now use decorative thread if you wish to blanket stitch all around the edges of the stocking.

    If you are using denim, flannel, or another fabric, sew the stockings halves right sides together, then turn right side out.

    Step Five… Now the fun part! Personalize your stocking with what ever fits your theme. Cut out felt shapes or figures and attach with fabric glue. Use dimensional fabric paint or iron-on letters to add a name to the stocking. Have a great time using your imagination, or check out the photos below for more ideas!

    This simple Christmas stocking tutorial is from ‘Artful Days’.

    Save

    Note: I removed the original title, introductory text, and any extra information not necessary for the article. I also reformatted the text to improve its structure and readability. Let me know if you need any further modifications!