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Design Center - Seasonal

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Seasonal: Eco-Decorating: Spring Cleaning or Spring GREENING Okay, "green" is the talk of the town, from apparel to cereal to headphones to shampoo. People want healthy alternatives, but they just haven't thought about it with furniture. The good news is there are lots of innovative ways to be conscious of your environmental impact on the earth without sacrificing an ounce of beauty. When it comes to decorating, it's not just a matter of style, color and design anymore. We need to be alert to what goes into furniture and how to find safe and functional alternatives. Let's discuss a few basics. One of the most common words used in the conversation and explanation of eco-friendly programs is the word "sustainable." Sustainable development is "development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs." Many home furnishings companies are now strong supporters of "sustainability" issues. In fact, The Sustainable Furniture Council was formed to support eco-friendly home furnishings. The Council is a non-profit balanced coalition of industry players created to promote sustainable practices among manufacturers, retailers, and consumers alike with a public tagging program to identify good choices. Sustainability of our forests is obviously a frequent topic in the context of the environment. Sustainable forestry consists of management practices that ensure the health and growth of our forests for future generations. As the population expands and the economy grows, responsible people are concerned about our forests, and they want assurances that our forests will always be there. In the context of furniture, non-toxic and natural American hardwoods are among the most sustainable materials on earth. Unlike composites or synthetics, solid wood responsibly grown and managed offers generations of beauty and comfort. Here's a short list of ways to make your home greener. · Seek Out and Buy Green Products · Buy Things That Last · Recycle, Recycle, Recycle · Use Less Bottled Water · Reduce Energy Use · Choose Renewable Energy · Buy an Energy Efficient Vehicle · Minimize E-waste (computers, cell phones, etc) "Greening" your home might seem like an overwhelming and never-ending chore, but it does not have to be. As with any major project, do it in steps and with a plan in place. You might want to choose just one room as opposed to an entire home. But What About Style? When it comes to upholstery, you don't have to settle for plain brown burlap fabric to be environmentally friendly. Organic cottons, hemp, recycled materials and fabrics are among the many fashionable options now available. Many collections feature nature-inspired fabric designs, available in dozens of rich colors that are certified organic and contain no carcinogens or toxins. While seeking the most in environmental furniture, don't overlook construction materials. Glues, finishes, stains and waxes can also be a source of unwanted chemicals. Whatever Eco-Friendly option you choose, you'll feel good knowing that you've surrounded yourself and decorated your home with our planet's future in mind.

Seasonal: Decorate for Spring By Joyce Winter, Owner Discovery Furniture, and Toni Farrell-Higgins, Rooms ReNew Stylist Discovery Furniture When the snow melts and the first crocus begin to bloom, you know it's time to start decorating for spring. When you think spring, think nature, charm, and change from dark colors to bright colors and you'll be on the right track. Adding something from nature always puts the season in perspective. Twigs of forsythia, pussy willow or bulb flowers are the perfect accent. Use your favorite pitcher or vase for the twigs; for the bulb flowers try using the whole plant, either fresh or silk in a beautiful piece of crockery or in a terra cotta pot. Along the nature theme, bring out all of the bunnies, birds or baby animal collections you have. If your items are of the same size and shape, try elevating a few of the items with books (children's' books would work especially well). Putting Easter or spring books in a plate rack or standing them up on a tabletop in front of these collections would make a charming table scape. Along with our collections, spring is the time for lighter, brighter colors. Shades of pink, yellow or lime green will put you in the spring frame of mind. Consider a glass bowl or beautiful platter with a spring colored candle in the middle, surrounded by pastel colored glass pebbles. Look for new accessories of pillows and table runners to liven up your rooms. Also consider trading out a darker, wintry looking rug for a brighter "spring colored" rug. With all of these changes, walking into your "new" room will be like a breath of fresh spring air!

Seasonal: Fall Decor · Interior decorating trends embrace nature and green living. · Tips on fall decorating Fall interior decorating trends are finding green living and environmentally healthy choices at the forefront again. This time the trend is getting a bit more literal. Natural elements are still an important part of the home and can be found in bamboo flooring, rattan furniture, stone countertops and raw wood furniture. Some of these fundamental design pieces are less expensive than alternatives and some are much more costly; it's important to do your research before making a decision as not all brands are the same. Another trend that seems to be gaining stride is decorative stained finishes. Inlaid wood is quite popular but also expensive and more people are currently opting to use a decorative or faux staining technique to draw attention to their beautiful wood pieces but without the expense of inlaid wood. Another eco-friendly trend that is picking up steam is reclaimed and refurbished materials being used in creative ways. Instead of demolished materials being sent to a dump, companies are snagging up these little treasures and making a business of reselling them. Some companies are just reselling the raw items, such as bricks and old timber. Other entrepreneurs, ones with an artistic flair are turning them into new pieces, like a coffee table from reclaimed wood and a chalkboard from antique slate. Either way, this trend is an excellent way to add personality to your home without adding more clutter to the earth. Tips on Fall Decorating Fall is an excellent time to update your home and add a few new touches before the short winter days force you inside, but not all of your modifications need to be huge alterations. There are very inexpensive ways to add a little holiday décor to your home in the fall, or simply ways to embrace the environment by bringing in a plant, collecting leaves for a photo display or filling a vase with stones and pebbles. The best way to get inspired for this season's decorating trends is to take a long walk and make mental notes of all the beauty Mother Nature has created in her home. Subtle changes such as adding a touch of color or a focal piece of furniture can really give your home some (new) personality. Color When deciding on color, it's easy to stay in the safety zone and stick with standard neutral tones. But in reality, more people are using colors that pop. Why not shed some of the boring colors that can seem drab and try spicy colors that stand out and grab attention. Chili-pepper red is the trend for this fall and into the holiday season. Look for this color on everything from wall decorations to pillow accents to glassware. Even red lighting is becoming a popular decorating accent. Try combining other zesty colors such as rich yellows, organic greens and fiery oranges to achieve a look that is sure to get attention. Accessorize Painting isn't the only way to give a stylish nod to autumn. Look for blankets, pillows, and rugs in darker colors and textured fabrics to complement your furniture. Choose fabric patterns with metallic or beaded detail, embroidery, or Middle Eastern influences. Besides providing an instant updated look, these easy additions will make your home seem warmer and more comfortable. Fill shelves, tables and bare corners with various-sized candles in delicious seasonal scents like cinnamon, vanilla, apple, and pumpkin pie. Use copper accents wherever possible for a rustic fall look. Décor It's really amazing what a few accents can do to an entire room. Adding a throw and some pillows, along with perhaps a vase and wall hanging can transform a room to have a vintage country influence, a modern feel or Asian-infused design elements. One piece of décor that is really popular for all design types is the mirror. Hang a large mirror in a room as a focal point that not only opens up the space, but distributes the light beautifully. Or, for something different, hang a wall with several smaller mirrors for an interesting decorative element that draws in the eye. Shapes, sizes and frames come in an infinite amount of styles so they can coordinate with your overall theme. Decorating For Thanksgiving Is Easy! Most people just focus on the table for Thanksgiving decorating, and while that is indeed important, don't forget to bring the beauty of autumn splendor into other areas of your home. Some quick ideas include: · Pick up some silk garlands of autumn colors and drape them over doorways, windows, mantels, and artwork or mirrors. · Invest in a package or two of silk fall leaves. They only cost a couple of dollars at the discount store, so use them as lavishly as your budget allows! Tuck them behind picture frames, sprinkle them on tabletops, even pin them to your guest towels! Nothing brings that warmth to a home more than fall's splendor! · Set a backdrop for your Thanksgiving celebrations! Layer fabrics on windows and tables, bring out the area rugs (you can layer them too!) and switch out some of your more summery accessories for things with rich colors and feel. · Create a little snack or breakfast table in a corner of your kitchen with a cheap card table and some layered linens. Accessorize it with a basket of apples and apple cider. Use these great ideas for your home today, and find out how thankful your loved ones are that you cared enough to make their home as special as can be.

Seasonal: Outdoor Living Bring A Little Indoor Comfort Outside Outdoor living is booming, and no wonder. Whether you have a deck, a porch, a sunroom, a backyard, balcony or patio, creating an outdoor living area increases your space and lets you enjoy nature. It can be as easy as setting up a gazebo or screen tent and adding outdoor furniture. The deck or patio isn't just for the grill anymore! It is actually an outdoor room. Patio furniture continues to be the cornerstone of all outdoor living items. Many outdoor living furniture sets now resemble an indoor living room with an umbrella. It is not uncommon to see a cushioned loveseat, two cushioned armchairs and coffee table. Chaise lounges may not be common inside, but outside, they add comfortable and fashionable seating. Optional coordinating add-ons might include an accent table, serving cart, outdoor rug, wooden gazebo, and outdoor lamps. Decorating an outdoor living space shouldn't cost a fortune. In order to shop wisely, consider the amount of time you'll spend outside, as well as your comfort level. You will want to create an outdoor area that compliments your lifestyle and tastes and that you'll be proud to show off to friends. Don't forget: you need to please you and your family first, once you do that, your guests will be pleased as well. Where to begin? As always, feel free to go to our online room planner. (The tool can be found on the left in our navigation menu.) This planner helps take the guesswork out of designing a space. If you think your needs through, you can easily narrow down the choices and focus on finding just the right outdoor furniture pieces for you and your lifestyle. Begin by asking a few questions: · How large is the outdoor space? · Do you use your outdoor area primarily for personal/close family relaxation, or large-group entertainment? · Does the outdoor area receive a lot of sun? · How often do you use your outdoor area? · Do you frequently dine outdoors? · Do you ever use the area in the evening or at night? · Is the area sheltered, or is it completely open to the elements? · What pieces of outdoor furniture do you have in mind? Do you want chairs only, or a dining set, or lounge chairs? Do you want a bar or cocktail arrangement? · How formal or casual do you want your area to be? · Do you plan to move or rearrange furniture often? Answers to these questions will help you to identify the types of material(s) your new outdoor living furniture should be made from, how many pieces of furniture you need, and what types of accessories would enhance the space. You want to look for comfortable, stylish, and durable outdoor furniture. For example, if you plan to move chairs and other pieces often, you may decide to choose lightweight materials like recycled plastic and aluminum. If you have young children, you may look for outdoor furniture materials that are durable and easily cleaned. As you begin to identify materials like teak wood, outdoor or synthetic wicker, recycled plastic, aluminum or wrought iron, you can determine the amount of care needed to maintain your new outdoor living furniture. If you use the area primarily for casual breakfasts with your family, a bistro-style outdoor furniture set may be more appropriate than a large, elaborate dining set. If you want to relax outdoors, consider recliners and deep-cushioned seating with ottomans. Cushions should be made with fade- and weather-resistant fabrics, and allow for easy cleaning. If your area is open and receives a lot of sun, consider adding a patio umbrella or awning. If space allows, you might even add a portable gazebo for welcomed shade. Nighttime use may call for lighting with torches, electric or solar-powered lamps. If your patio floor is a drab concrete slab, dress it up or disguise it with an outdoor area rug. Rugs made today are easily cleaned with a hose and dry quickly. Be sure to consider the climate where you live. If you live where winters are harsh, will your outdoor furniture be able to remain in the elements year-round, or will you have to store your furniture during winter? Do you have the required storage space? Perhaps investing in outdoor furniture covers can help maintain your outdoor furniture at its best. Some other ideas for adding charm and beauty to your deck or patio decor is by adding lovely wind chimes, decorative birdhouses, new or antique watering cans. Don't forget to add color throughout your patio area with plants potted in containers that match your theme or style. Once you define your outdoor living furniture needs and desires, you can begin to compare against the wide variety of offerings and price points. Hopefully these tips will help you to make the best furniture choice for you and your lifestyle. Happy summer!

Seasonal: Summer Fresh Lighten Up For Summer Outdoor living is booming, and no wonder. Whether you have a deck, a porch, a sunroom, a backyard, balcony or patio, creating an outdoor living area increases your space and lets you enjoy nature. It can be as easy as setting up a gazebo or screen tent and adding outdoor furniture. The deck or patio isn't just for the grill anymore! It is actually an outdoor room. Patio furniture continues to be the cornerstone of all outdoor living items. Many outdoor living furniture sets now resemble an indoor living room with an umbrella. It is not uncommon to see a cushioned loveseat, two cushioned armchairs and coffee table. Chaise lounges may not be common inside, but outside, they add comfortable and fashionable seating. Optional coordinating add-ons might include an accent table, serving cart, outdoor rug, wooden gazebo, and outdoor lamps. Decorating an outdoor living space shouldn't cost a fortune. In order to shop wisely, consider the amount of time you'll spend outside, as well as your comfort level. You will want to create an outdoor area that compliments your lifestyle and tastes and that you'll be proud to show off to friends. Don't forget: you need to please you and your family first, once you do that, your guests will be pleased as well. Where to begin? As always, feel free to go to our online room planner found on our homepage or at http://www.FurnitureFirst.com/roomplanner . This planner helps take the guesswork out of designing a space. If you think your needs through, you can easily narrow down the choices and focus on finding just the right outdoor furniture pieces for you and your lifestyle. Begin by asking a few questions: · How large is the outdoor space? · Do you use your outdoor area primarily for personal/close family relaxation, or large-group entertainment? · Does the outdoor area receive a lot of sun? · How often do you use your outdoor area? · Do you frequently dine outdoors? · Do you ever use the area in the evening or at night? · Is the area sheltered, or is it completely open to the elements? · What pieces of outdoor furniture do you have in mind? Do you want chairs only, or a dining set, or lounge chairs? Do you want a bar or cocktail arrangement? · How formal or casual do you want your area to be? · Do you plan to move or rearrange furniture often? Answers to these questions will help you to identify the types of material(s) your new outdoor living furniture should be made from, how many pieces of furniture you need, and what types of accessories would enhance the space. You want to look for comfortable, stylish, and durable outdoor furniture. For example, if you plan to move chairs and other pieces often, you may decide to choose lightweight materials like recycled plastic and aluminum. If you have young children, you may look for outdoor furniture materials that are durable and easily cleaned easily. As you begin to identify materials like teak wood, outdoor or synthetic wicker, recycled plastic, aluminum or wrought iron, you can determine how the amount of care needed to maintain your new outdoor living furniture. If you use the area primarily for casual breakfasts with your family, a bistro-style outdoor furniture set may be more appropriate than a large, elaborate dining set. If you want to relax outdoors, consider recliners and deep-cushioned seating with ottomans. Cushions should be made with fade- and weather-resistant fabrics, and allow for easy cleaning. If your area is open and receives a lot of sun, consider adding a patio umbrella or awning. If space allows, you might even add a portable gazebo for welcomed shade. Nighttime use may call for lighting with torches, electric- or solar-powered lamps. If your patio floor is a drab concrete slab, dress it up or disguise it with an outdoor area rug. Rugs made today are easily cleaned with a hose and dry quickly. Be sure to consider the climate where you live. If you live where winters are harsh, will your outdoor furniture be able to remain in the elements year-round, or will you have to store your furniture during winter? Do you have the required storage space? Perhaps investing in outdoor furniture covers can help maintain your outdoor furniture at its best. Some other ideas for adding charm and beauty to your deck or patio decor is by adding lovely wind chimes, decorative birdhouses, new or antique watering cans. Don't forget to add color throughout your patio area with plants potted in containers that match your theme or style. Once you define your outdoor living furniture needs and desires, you can begin to compare against the wide variety of offerings and price points. Hopefully these tips will help you to make the best furniture choice for you and your lifestyle. Happy summer!