Wallpaper: How to Choose the Perfect Pattern and Size for Your Space

When it comes to decorating a room, choosing the right wallpaper can make all the difference. Wallpaper not only adds color and texture to a space but can also create moods and visual effects. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect pattern and size for your space. Here are some tips and rules of thumb to help you make the right decision.

Consider the Architecture and Period of Your Home

Start by considering the architecture and period of your home. Whether you want to follow the style and age of your home or go against them, it's important to be aware of the patterns and forms that were popular when the house was designed. Each period has characteristic styles and patterns that you can choose from.

Choose the Right Pattern Size

The size of the room or the area of the wall can be a good pointer when it comes to choosing a pattern. A small room looks better with a small pattern, while a large room can handle a larger pattern. However, this rule of thumb should be taken with a grain of salt. Open-plan layouts can feel messy if every wall is papered with large patterns. Small patterns create a calm background that can help highlight individual objects, while large patterns tend to overwhelm objects.

Consider the Number of Colors on the Wallpaper

The number of colors on the wallpaper also influences the overall effect. The more colors, the more complex the pattern becomes. If you're not sure, choose a wallpaper with fewer colors, which creates a more cohesive look.

Choose the Right Wall

If you want a small impact, choose the smallest wall in the room. If you want a big impact, choose the largest wall or the first-impression wall.

Create Contrast with Doors and Moldings

Using wallpaper to create contrast with doors and moldings can be a great way to accentuate or camouflage them. Using wallpaper with a similar pattern to the molding can make the room feel narrower.

Choose the Right Pattern

When it comes to patterns, there are two main categories: organic/leafy and geometric/formal. Organic patterns include foliage, flowers, irregular designs with birds and animals, toile de Jouy, and paisley. Geometric patterns include geometrical shapes (e.g., triangles, squares, rectangles, rhomboids), stripes, checks, and houndstooth. Vary the size of the patterned structures to ensure that not all patterns have the same rhythm.

Wallpaper is a versatile and effective way to add color, texture, and pattern to a room. By following these tips and rules of thumb, you can choose the perfect pattern and size for your space. Remember to consider the architecture and period of your home, the number of colors on the wallpaper, and the right wall to make an impact. With these considerations in mind, you can create a space that reflects your personality and style.

"Silence is Golden: The Art of Fixing Acoustics in Your Home"

Moving into a newly built apartment or home is an exciting experience, but it can quickly become a nightmare when you discover that the acoustics are less than ideal. With many modern buildings featuring open-plan designs and hard surfaces, noise can easily bounce around the space, creating a cacophony of irritating sounds. Fortunately, there are simple and fun ways to fix these issues and create a peaceful oasis in your home.

Photo by Kateryna Hliznitsova on Unsplash

Absorption is Key

Annoying sound reflections in a room can be reduced by using materials and surfaces that absorb sound. Soft textiles like curtains, pillows, and throws can all be used to make annoying sounds disappear. Consider using heavy fabrics with tight weaves like wool or velvet for maximum absorption. Bookshelves, upholstered furniture, and even green plants with large leaves can also help absorb sound and create a more pleasant acoustic environment.

Diffusion and Damping

Rather than absorbing sound waves, it's possible to use diffusion to break them up and spread them around. This can be achieved by using furniture and panels to create various barriers to the sound waves. Similarly, a room can be divided into smaller areas (acoustic zones) using the same method.

Identify Disturbing Sounds

It's essential to identify which sounds are causing the most disturbance in your home. Hard surfaces that emit echoes, slamming doors, footsteps, and the noise from appliances like fridges, freezers, and washing machines can all contribute to a poor acoustic environment. Once you know which sounds are most disturbing, you can focus on ways to reduce their impact.

Finding the Right Balance

It's important to find the right balance between sound absorption and sound insulation. A room that is sound-insulated too well can feel oppressive and uncomfortable. A combination of absorption, diffusion, and damping will help create a pleasant acoustic environment that is both comfortable and functional.

Fixing acoustics in your home doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. With a little creativity and some simple design tricks, you can create a peaceful oasis in even the noisiest of environments. Remember to identify the most disturbing sounds and focus on reducing their impact while finding the right balance between sound absorption and insulation. With these tips, you'll be able to enjoy your home in peace.

Greening Your Windows: A Guide to Choosing Houseplants Based on Window Orientation

Houseplants are an excellent way to bring a touch of nature into your home. They not only improve air quality but also add aesthetic appeal to any room. However, not all houseplants are suitable for all types of windows. Different windows face different points of the compass, and each direction provides a unique set of environmental conditions that can either enhance or impede the growth of plants.

Photo by Ceyda Çiftci on Unsplash and Alex Perri on Unsplash

Here are some tips on selecting houseplants for windows that face different points of the compass:

North-Facing Windows: Cool and Shady

North-facing windows receive the least amount of sunlight, making them the coolest and shadiest of all windows. Plants that thrive in low-light conditions and cooler temperatures are ideal for north-facing windows. Choose green, nonflowering plants with large, soft leaves, such as ferns, ivies, and peace lilies. Plants whose natural habitat is on the ground are suitable here, as they need less in the way of light and are more likely to survive in a north-facing window.

It is crucial to avoid standing plants too far back in a room with a north-facing window, as they may not get enough light to survive. All plants require light to photosynthesize, so placing them near the window will help them thrive.

South-Facing Windows: A Lot of Light and Occasional Strong Sun

South-facing windows receive the most sunlight and can become very hot on sunny days. Plants that thrive when they have a lot of sun and warmth are ideal for south-facing windows. Choose plants with patterned and variegated leaves, as they usually need a light position. Thick-leaved and tropical plants from dry, desert zones, such as cacti, succulents, and other plants that have spikes or are covered with hairs, can survive on south-facing windows with a great deal of sun.

It is essential to water and sprays the plants more frequently on south-facing windows, but not in the middle of the day, when the sun may heat up the drops of water on the leaves and burn the plant.

East and West-Facing Windows: Plenty of Light but No Strong Midday Sun

East and west-facing windows provide plenty of light but not the direct, intense sun that south-facing windows do. Most plants thrive in these conditions, so choose whatever you like best. However, it is crucial to consider what may be outside the window. A building, a large tree, a balcony, or another structure can cut out so much sunlight that the window ends up with as little as a north-facing window.

Just because indoor plants are indoors, do not ignore the natural cycle of the seasons. No plants flower all year round, and there are some plants that, in their natural environment, hibernate during the winter season. Geraniums (genus Pelargonium), for instance, need to stand in a cool, dark place during the winter in order to put out new shoots and renew their magnificent foliage when spring comes.

It's a good idea to have one set of summer plants and another set of winter plants, just as people had summer and winter curtains in the old days.

Read interior designer Simone Elderot and her take on plants here.

Selecting the right houseplants for your windows that face different points of the compass can help them thrive and bring a touch of nature to your home. Consider the natural needs of the plant and the environmental conditions of your window when selecting the plants, and you'll have a beautiful, thriving indoor garden in no time.

Discovering the Power of Homed: Stockhomed's Mission to Connect People with Their Roots

In today's fast-paced world, where people are constantly on the move and change is the only constant, it's easy to feel a sense of displacement and disconnection from one's roots. Whether it's because of work, study, or personal reasons, many of us find ourselves living in cities and countries far away from our place of origin. This is where the term "Homed" comes in.

Homed is a coined term that refers to a feeling of having returned to one's natural habitat or returning home. It was founded by Stockhomed, a company that aims to bring people closer to their roots by creating spaces that are inspired by the culture and traditions of their homeland. Their mission is to help people feel a sense of belonging, no matter where they are in the world.

At Stockhomed, they believe that home is not just a physical space but a feeling, a sense of comfort, and a connection to one's past. They want to create spaces that not only look and feel like home but also evoke emotions that are associated with it. They aim to do this by infusing their spaces with the sights, sounds, and flavors of the customer's homeland.

The concept of Homed is not just about physical spaces. It's also about creating a community of people who share a common heritage and culture. Stockhomed believes that by connecting people with their roots, they can create a sense of unity and understanding that transcends borders and boundaries.

As a company, Stockhomed wants to leave all its customers with the feeling of being Homed. They want to create an experience that is not just about aesthetics but also about emotions. They want their customers to feel a sense of pride in their culture and heritage and to feel connected to their roots. They believe that by doing this, they can help people lead more fulfilling lives, both personally and professionally.

In conclusion, the concept of Homed is a powerful one. It speaks to our deep-seated need for connection, belonging, and a sense of identity. Stockhomed has recognized this need and is working to create spaces and communities that help people feel more rooted and connected to their past. As we continue to navigate an ever-changing world, the idea of Homed is more relevant than ever, and we can all benefit from it.

Desk Edition: Buying the perfect Desk with Jack Byram

A desk is more than just a functional piece of furniture; it can also add a stylish touch to a space. With the right design, material, and color, a desk can become a focal point in any room, adding both character and functionality. When looking for a desk, there are several factors to consider, including the size and shape of the desk, the materials used, and the color and style.

Size and shape are important considerations when choosing a desk. A small desk may be suitable for a bedroom or home office, while a larger desk may work better in a living room or workspace. The style and color of the desk should also complement the existing décor and color scheme in the room. Quality desks are typically made from durable materials such as solid wood, metal, or high-quality laminate.

When purchasing a desk, it's important to avoid choosing a desk that is too small or too large for the intended space, as well as desks made from low-quality materials or that lack a sturdy structure. It's also essential to consider storage and organization options, as clutter can quickly accumulate in a workspace.

For further inspiration, interior designer Simone Elderot of Stockhomed has shared her insight into how a desk can be stylish, as well as what to look for in one. For those looking to purchase a new desk, The Spruce has put together an article that lists some of the best places to buy one. The article features a wide range of prices, styles, and features, making it an excellent resource for those looking to invest in a new desk.

Why Trust The Spruce? The Spruce is a trusted source for all things home-related, with expert advice on topics such as decorating, organization, and cleaning. Spruce's articles are thoroughly researched and written by experts in their field, ensuring that readers receive accurate and reliable information. Additionally, The Spruce's articles are regularly updated to ensure that the information provided is current and up-to-date.

A desk can be a stylish and functional addition to any space, adding character, personality, and organization to a room. When choosing a desk, it's important to consider the size and shape, materials used, and storage options and ensure that the desk complements the existing décor and color scheme. To find the perfect desk, check out The Spruce's article on the best places to buy one, and get inspired by Simone Elderot's insights into stylish and functional desk design.

Home: A Place to Stay or Display

Make your home a reflection of you

Your home is your sanctuary. It is a place where you can unwind and recharge after a long day at work or school. It is also a reflection of your personality and taste. However, have you ever noticed how many homes have the same basic furnishings? It is because people tend to follow trends and what is popular rather than what truly suits their lifestyles and preferences.

Your home's layout and the furniture you choose can define the kind of life you lead to to some extent. If you enjoy spending time with friends and family, you will need ample seating in your living room. If you prefer solitude, you will feel better with rooms that can be closed off from the rest of the house.

So, how can you furnish your home to reflect your personality and lifestyle? Start by analyzing when and where you feel most comfortable. Think about your childhood memories and what kind of interiors or styles appeal to you. Consider your future image of how you want to live.

It is also essential to think about the colors you like and don't like, the type of furniture that appeals to you, and the kind of wood and finish you prefer. Define the surroundings in which you feel most at home.

Furthermore, consider your budget and what amount you would be comfortable spending on furniture and decor for your project. It is also beneficial to discuss your thoughts and ideas with someone who knows you well. A friend who is starting a home project can exchange ideas and thoughts about your design history.

Your home is not only a place to stay but also a place to display your personality and taste. Take the time to analyze what makes you feel most comfortable, and incorporate those elements into your home's decor. Remember, your home is your sanctuary, and it should reflect who you are.