Dress Your Walls

July 10, 2015June 30, 2015 | honeyaubrey

Ever stared blankly into space? Yes, when I’m running low on caffeine.
Sorry, let me rephrase that. Ever stared at a blank space? Specifically at home, at a blank wall that is screaming for help, and the creative guru in you wonders about the different ways you can give your walls a makeover. Then literally, you are staring blankly into space with endless ideas in your head about how to turn your bare walls into instant eye candy.

Don’t settle for plain Jane and give your space a wow factor with these easy and fun ways to add texture and style to any blank walls.

PAINT

Painting doesn’t have to be just one solid color. You can do different designs such as stripes and chevron, with the help of painters tape. For bedroom walls use moody and sensual colors. For the living room, light, bright and sunny colors. Stripes create optical illusions an increase room size. And ombre is no longer just an exotic hair trend, it also works for an interesting wall color! You color schemes are endless!

WALLPAPER

Aspiring to create different looks without the labor (and unpleasant scent) of paint? Whether you’re feeling cool, glamorous or shabby chic, there are so many unique ways to incorporate wallpaper in your room. Geometric designs add a modern twist to a room, floral prints give a feminine touch, or pops of color for a casual and fun vibe. Wrap the room one pattern or create a focal point by trimming out a section of wallpaper with molding as an accent.

ART / PHOTOS

Another way to prevent a blank wall from looking empty is by filling it with a collection of artwork or photos. An oversized painting or artwork makes a statement piece in any space. Abstract paintings give life and color, while landscapes create a soothing aura against a soft blue wall. Personal photos help the space feel more intimate. For those who love order and organization, set various pictures in identical frames. For those who believe chaos is beauty, show off a collage of photos on the wall Pinterest or Instagram style– random yet stunning.

DECALS

Simple and cost-effective, wall stickers and decals are becoming more and more popular. You can find decals in almost any design, color, shape or size. They are lightweight and can be applied on any smooth surface (wall, ceiling, mirrors). Decals can be as easily removed when you are in the mood to redecorate.

MIRRORS

Mirrors make a stylish accent piece while making spaces look larger. Hanging a large mirror on a blank wall can reflect light, opening up the room while acting as a wall art. There are a lot of unique styles and DIY opportunities for mirrors. Consider arrangements of smaller mirrors, such as side by side, or by pairs.

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX

Don’t limit yourself to just one of the above. It’s great to mix and match –turn your blank wall space into a gallery of your favorite prints, photos, and objects! Boring? Absolutely not. Eclectic? Of course, it helps give your own personality.

Now let’s stop staring… if your walls could talk, what would they say?

The Secret Garden

May 15, 2015May 14, 2015 | honeyaubrey

Love greenery and in need of an interior design refresh? Consider adding plants to create a relaxing and natural atmosphere to your home.

For busy-bee serial plant killers (like myself) who lack the time or talent to grow anything underground, you might be thinking, “But I don’t have a green thumb.” Don’t worry, we are not alone. Just like there are faux leather and faux fur, there are also faux plants- artificial plants that look so life-like, you can now grow your own secret garden without getting down and dirty. Really, you can do it without barely lifting a finger, except, of course, to open your wallet. 🙂 There are so many different ways to incorporate flowers and greenery into any space.

Avoid committing indoor plant decorating faux pas and read some of our tips below.

TABLETOP ACCESSORIES

Succulents and terrariums add modern green accents to any room. Besides overwhelming your tabletop, you can’t go wrong with this. Whether store-bought or DIYs, you can utilize several pieces, line them up, or even put them in a box. Buy a glass cover and place over a succulent for an easy, maintenance-free terrarium. Feelin’ beachy? Fill up a glass bowl or mason jar with succulents, sand and small driftwood, even a seashell or two.

CORNER PIECE

Have an empty corner that you want to fill? It’s the perfect spot for an oversize plant or vase. It adds texture and depth to any room, while adding a hint of mama nature. Remember, you don’t have to add a lot of greenery to make a statement. It’s all about placement and arrangement. Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to be symmetrical and fill the opposite corner with the same or even any plant at all. Put a floor lamp instead.

ROOM DIVIDERS

modern-office-space-naturallivingmag-com — *Image Courtesy of Natural Living Mag*

Floor plants make great and creative room dividers. Place several large plants behind your sofa to separate your living and dining area. It creates a little indoor jungle, adding layers to the room while separating spaces.

ORCHIDS

Bring charm and elegance to any room with orchids. They are ornamental plants that symbolize love, beauty and strength. Place them on tabletops and entryways, on window sills and wall shelves. Use them to add a pop of color since they are usually available in a variety of hues and styles.

Here are some artificial greenery available at our Red Knot stores:

From Left to Right–

1. PHALAENOPSIS, $59
2. PINK PHALAENOPSIS, $19
3. GLASS POTTED ECHEVERIA PINE, $19
4. MINI DRACULA ALOE SUCCULENT GLASS, $329
5. FORSYNTHIA IN A VASE, $199
6. MOTHER IN LAW TONGUE, $69
7. SUCCULENTS IN CERA POT, $33
8. ONCIDIUM PLANT, $59
9. PAPYRUS GRASS IN VASE, $129

There are many more ways to include plants and greens in your home. Secret or not, start your garden, and little by little, watch your (faux) plant greenery grow.

Images courtesy of Houzz & Google Images.

All That Glitters Is…

May 8, 2015May 7, 2015 | honeyaubrey

…gold… and silver. They shine, they sparkle, and yes, they’re luxurious! In home design metallics are no longer just festive accents during the holidays. Modern and chic, whether in the spring or summer, gold and silver brings a dash of style and regality like no other colors.

How do you incorporate this glitzy trend in your home? Read below for some tips.

METALLIC 101

They might be flashy, but they can also be considered neutrals because they work with any color palette. Although, keep in mind metallic tones are reflective in nature. So it’s important to allow them to be the star of their own show, and make them pop. Gold and silver can make any space gleam worthy, you have to literally, make them shine. As accessories, the most dramatic impact is done in small doses. Otherwise, it will be overwhelming. If you decide to go bigger, as in metallic furniture, then by all means go BIG! Then keep everything else neutral. Lastly, you can mix and match gold and silver. It adds texture and creates a history- a not so monotonous “I actually live here” look. Like everything else, it’s all about balance.

GO FOR THE GOLD

starburstmirror_decorpad — *Image Courtesy of http://www.decorpad.com*

Black and gold = sexy and lustrous. For fashionistas, think the LBD with a gold statement necklace. Rich gold also works well on rustic brick walls as it create a contrast of whimsy. Achieve this look by placing a gold starburst mirror against urban brick walls. For a sunny and more inviting atmosphere, play up yellow with gold. For a feminine touch, go for light gold and glass, such as our Rachel Occasional Table Collection here at Red Knot.

SEE THE SILVER LINING

AquaSilver_decoist — *Image Courtesy of http://www.decoist.com*

Silver works great with floral patterns as it softens the palette. Decorate with white tabletop accessories to enhance the silver. Cool shades of blue or white with silver and chrome accents creates a sleek and polished look, however you can warm up the atmosphere by adding warm tones of gold.

BE INSPIRED

Here are our 10 faves from Red Knot that can bedazzle any space.

1. Rachel Oval Cocktail Table, $339
2. Leather & Lace Wall Art, $549
3. Nyack 3-Drawer Mirror Chest, $399
4. Robinson Accent Table, $99
5. Silver Table Lamp, various styles – $129 & up
6. Dendrobium Silk Floral Arrangement, $79
7. Mercury Ball Decor, $24
8. Mirror Glass Tray, $59
9. Gold Star Tabletop Decor, $24
10. Silver Metal Sculpture Set, $59

As you can see, metallic furnishings and accessories give your interiors edge and glamour. So don’t be afraid to go for the gold (and silver) because it’s your home’s time to shine.

Even Your Mother Will Love Me

May 1, 2015May 1, 2015 | honeyaubrey

Mom’s the word in this special blog post featuring Red Knot items fit for mom this coming Mother’s Day. Celebrate her love for you and proclaim that she is, in fact, the best mom in the world.

Sunday May 10th, is just around the corner. If you haven’t gotten mom her gift yet, come on over and browse through our endless possibilities of gifts for mom.

In addition, starting today May 1st, until Monday May 4th, Red Knot is having a storewide sale for all accessories! 20% OFF ACCESSORIES! This includes rug, lamps, wall art, tabletop decor and other lifestyle accessories.

You know, there is a definitely a cool factor here at Red Knot that almost everything we offer, even your mother will love.

How to Dress Up Your Bed

April 23, 2015April 24, 2015 | honeyaubrey

Monacointeriors — *Image Courtesy of Monaco Interiors*

There is so much more to your bed than just being a place to relax and sleep in. Since you spend about one-third of the day in bed, it should be an intimate and beautiful sanctuary where you can unwind and rejuvenate after a long day. In addition, beautiful bedding enhances your sleep as well as your mood. The challenge is creating enticing, much envied looks that you see in magazines, Pinterest and showroom floors.

Here are some tips to help you create your dream bed…

LAYERED COMFORT

decorny_bohobed — *Image Courtesy of decorny.com*

Dressing up your bed is all about layers. However, your bed should be a balance between fashionable and cozy. Choose a great base for your bed by buying the best mattress you can afford. If not, you can update an old mattress by adding pillow toppers or a feather bed to make it feel like new.

THE SHEET SET

Sheets can be easily changed at any time, so have fun with this. The sheet set generally includes pillowcases, a fitted sheet and flat sheet. You can choose solid colors, or coordinating patterns with the rest of your bedding.

ALL COVERED UP

Modern-bed-with-Mid-century-style_decoist — Image Courtesy of decoist.com

There are several options for bed covers. One thing to keep in mind when selecting your bed cover is the type of sleeper you are and the weather if it makes a difference. Summer months in Hawaii gets very, very hot! A quilt can be used as a bed cover, or an additional layer for warmth. It is made with three layers with a middle layer being thin cotton lining. Quilts are usually designed and sewn together with many pieces of cloth, although modern quilts can be solid colors. A coverlet, or comforter, is large enough to cover the whole mattress, sometimes hanging low enough to cover the boxspring and bedframe. It also has three layers- a woven top, a layer filled of material including polyester batting down feathers, wool or silk, and a final backing. A duvet cover is constructed shorter than a coverlet. It is designed for smaller mattresses (European), or for platform beds. It is like a giant pillow case as you can fill it with cushion in cooler months. If you wanted to, you can use it entirely as a single covering for your bed. If you’re in the mood for a DIY project, you can create your own duvet by stitching two different fabrics back to back!

PILLOW TALK

Selecting the right bed pillows is very important as it gives that luxury of making a bed much more inviting. They serve a functional purpose and make fabulous accent pieces. The pillows do the most talking, telling you to come on over!

Is there a science behind arranging pillows for aesthetic purposes? See the visual below created by Marissa Waddell Interiors for ideas on how to arrange your pillows:

Rule of thumb in pillow sizes is from back to front it should be biggest to smallest. Vary the sizes of the decorative pillows in sizes, colors and textures, while keeping the overall look from getting too busy. Highlight the decorative pillows either by choosing a different color/texture from the sheet set, or pull colors from around the room to create a cohesive look, but at the same time giving them a decorative purpose.

COLOR STORY & PATTERN PLAY

nate-berkus-bedding — *Image Courtesy of bedroomfurnituredotcom*

Play up the color schemes with bright colors and patterns either for a casual or boho look. For a fluffy, I’m-sleeping-in-the clouds feel, go with all white in various textures. You can also offset this with a highly patterned coverlet for an artistic feel. For a modern room choose color palettes in shades of grays and whites, with strong accents of color such as red and violet. Textured decorative pillows (neckrolls, bolster and boudoir) can bring a bit of whimsy. Think faux fur, embroideries, appliques, burlap, etc. Pops of color and texture on your bed add layers and personality to a sleek and monotonous room.

FINISHING TOUCHES

nicespace-me_modernbed — Image Courtesy of nicespace.me

For a final touch, add a throw to your bed spread. You can simply fold the throw blanket, just lay it over your bed or drape the throw on the bottom corner.

Another thing to remember is to dress up your bed like you would dress yourself! Let it be an expression of you!

Choosing That Perfect Rug

April 17, 2015April 17, 2015 | honeyaubrey

Image Courtesy of http://www.decoratorsbest.com

Area rugs are the essential decorative accessory in a room. It is a functional piece (protects the floor and your feet) while enhancing design elements to the space. The styles, colors and materials to choose from are endless! Sometimes it can feel like it’s tricky business when it comes to selecting that ideal rug, but it’s a lot simpler than you think.

There are several main elements to keep in mind during this process. Finding the right rug can create a space to perfection but the wrong one can make it feel unfinished, awkward and even uncomfortable.

Color, size, texture and materials are some things to carefully consider. Read on for tips on mastering the challenge of choosing the perfect rug.

Image Courtesy of http://www.obeliskhome.com

COLOR

Color and style choice is important as it sets a mood and creates a story or relationship between your room and the rug. About one-third of a room’s color is dominated by the color of the floor covering, so a rug will seem as one of the largest pieces of “furniture” in the room. Plan your color scene depending on the colors of the rug.

Darker colors help define a more intimate space while lighter colors create a more spacious feel. Fiery hues such as yellow, orange or red add warmth while cool colors (blues, greens) creates a calming mood. For a cohesive look, choose a rug that compliments two or three main colors in the room. If there are a lot of color and pattern going on in your space, then choosing a neutral color rug is okay, but don’t play it too safe. Choose patterns and bright colors if your primary furniture is a solid color. Geometric prints are best for modern settings while floral prints work better for a more traditional look.

SIZE

Since rugs come in a myriad of shapes and sizes, remember that choosing your rug is also dependent on room size. A rug should fit the size of your seating area. All furniture should be placed on the rug. In a living room the rug should be large enough so at the very least the front legs of the furniture are on it. In the dining room, area rugs should cover beyond the chairs. To get the correct measurement, measure the table and add roughly about two feet. You can also sit on one of the chairs and measure the distance from the table, and add it all around. In the bedroom, you want to feel the luxurious rug on your feet so that you wake up every morning on the soft side, not the wrong side, of the bed!

A 5×8 area rug is a good choice for a medium sized room, such as the bedroom or under the coffee table in the living room. 8×10 rugs work best in dining rooms and master bedrooms. Square or round rugs are great choices for square rooms, and rectangular rugs oriented in the same direction in rectangular rooms.

TEXTURE

Texture adds layers to a room so don’t overlook this aspect when choosing your rug. The way the rug feels also (literally) adds to the feel to the room. Shoot for contrast- use the texture of your existing pieces to guide you. Sleek leather sofas go great with shag rugs or rugs with fluffier pile. A soft, velvety sofa go best with hard rugs like jute and sisal. Wool rugs are elegant in texture and add warmth and definition to a room that has shiny or smooth surfaces.

MATERIAL

When selecting rugs, think practical and choose materials depending on the traffic area of the room. The material that dominates the world of rugs is wool due to its low maintenance and high durability; however some people may be allergic to the fibers. Shag rugs can become a tripping hazard for elderly people because of the raised pile. Also keep in mind the maintenance of the rug. Jute, grass and sisal rugs have interesting textures and often cost less, but they stain easily, difficult to clean and don’t last as long. If you spill coffee or red wine, it’s time to say bye bye.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

Image Courtesy of http://www.arearugsclub.com

*Consider adding a rug pad, especially to flat weave rugs to add a layer of comfort.
*Place dark-colored or patterned rugs under your dining table as they are better at hiding stains.
*There is a huge misconception to buy the rug last. Big no-no. When it comes to decorative accents, choose the rug first because it is THE piece that creates a dramatic impact and ties the room together.

After finding your perfect rug, you can move on to your throw pillows, then curtains and other decorative pieces like wall art and table tops.

Wait… did someone say pillows? Stay tuned for next week’s blog post on layering pillows. Meanwhile, shop for your perfect rug here.

Turn The Light On!

March 6, 2015March 6, 2015 | honeyaubrey

There’s something about having perfect lighting. Whether it be for photography, dinner parties, or even working from home– there are many different types of light you can use. In this post we feature the characteristics of various lighting types. Since they are all designed with a certain use in mind, let’s go over where they would work best in your home.

INCANDESCENT
The oldest form of lighting, incandescent is the most common bulb most people are familiar with. It provides a warm, steady light and is used mostly in residential applications. It is also compatible with control dimmers, timers, and photo sensors so they are also widely used in commercial lighting. Life span is between 700 – 1000 hours. Incandescent light is inexpensive to manufacture, however, it is not as energy sufficient as other lighting options. Fun Fact- Incandescent light is on its way out, as part of the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) mandating that low-efficiency light bulbs be gradually removed from production.

HALOGEN
Halogen lighting has the advantage of being more efficient and a longer life than the incandescent bulb. Halogen lights are smaller in size and are compatible with dimmers. They are more expensive and burn at a higher temperature. They emit “white light”, similar to natural daylight in which colors appear sharper. Halogen bulbs are fragile, so be careful with handling- never use your bare hands to change the bulb as the oil can shorten or even end the light bulb’s lifespan. Design Tip- Halogen bulbs are used for car headlamps and work lights. At home, they work best as under-cabinet lighting.

CFL
Fluorescent light gives a flat, cold light, often bluish and harsh and can also be loud and flickery. CFLs are the compact fluorescent bulbs- they can be used anywhere you would use an incandescent light bulb. Contrary to regular fluorescent lights, CFLs are quiet, instant-on and have warmer, color-corrected tones. A normal lifespan is up to 10,000 hours and because of the small amount of mercury contained in the bulbs, they should be recycled when burnt out. Unlike incandescent and halogen light, most CFL bulbs cannot be used with dimmers. Design Tip- Use CFL bulbs for indoor and outdoor lamps, and decorative lighting.

LED
LED light, or “Light-emitting diode,” provide only directional light, making them ideal for task lighting. They are low in power consumption and have a long life span. LEDs are small, with common colors such as amber, red, green, and blue. Many LEDs have a rated lifespan of up to 50,000 hours. Since LED is not diffused light, the bulb will not work solely for general room illumination. Because of these features, LED lights provide unique design opportunities. Design Tip- LED strip lights = unlimited DIY projects, including illuminated closet rods. How brilliant!

**images courtesy of houzz.com**

Let’s talk about the L word

February 6, 2015 | honeyaubrey

It’s love, actually…

L-O-V-E, love.

Love is a universal word that has multiple meanings. It is an emotional state, a feeling that is so much more than we can ever explain. To some, it is complicated and undefinable. Love can be felt toward a person, an object, or an action. For most of us, we have the biological wiring to love and the need to be loved.

The official definitions of love (from Merriam – Webster) include:
(1) a strong affection for another person
(2) a warm attachment, enthusiasm or behavior
(3) the object of attachment, devotion or admiration

Here at Red Knot our most prominent form of Love is definition #2. This kind of Love happens all day, everyday. We have a LOVE for great design. We have sincere enthusiasm when it comes to stylish home furnishing and décor. Our brand is a reflection of our passion. We are dedicated to finding and sharing creative and inspiring pieces at affordable prices that you, our customers, will admire and love.

The only way we do great work here at Red Knot is by loving what we do.

Red Knot loves great design. Great design = Enthusiastic customers = Customers love Red Knot

So you can see that yes, love is interconnected and does make the world go round! 🙂

Last thing – here’s a little secret about love and home design —

“Live with what you LOVE. Never settle for what you kinda like, over what you absolutely love.”

DIY – Canvas Painting

January 23, 2015January 23, 2015 | honeyaubrey

A fun & creative do-it-yourself project for artists and non-artists – Handpainted Canvases!

What you’ll need:

Canvas (your choice of size, for this one one, we used 9×12)
Acrylic Paint
Pencil
Paintbrushes (for you ladies, old makeup brushes will also do)
Scissors
Small card stock or scratch paper

Steps:

STEP 1. Create and print an image using Photoshop (or any illustration program). Use scratch paper or cardstock paper to cut any desired shape you’d like to include in your painting.

STEP 2. After printing, flip paper over and using a pencil, trace dark lines over the image and lightly shade. Remember, do not trace it on the canvas – yet.

STEP 3. Flip your paper back over, and place onto your canvas. Tape sides down for better control. Using your pencil, trace back again, this time, over the image on the front. If any, trace cut shapes onto canvas.

STEP 4. Now paint, and let your inner Da Vinci & Van Gogh take over! Remember, it’s okay for your artwork to not be excessively perfect – it’s supposed to be handpainted. You can also go back and erase pencil marks that may be still showing through. You can always go back to add shades, more colors, anything you want.

Make this is your masterpiece.