Maybe You Need a Little Texture.......

Sometimes a room really seems to come together........except there's something that just seems to be missing. If you can't quite put your finger on it, that missing element may be texture.

Courtesy BHG

Texture can be easily overlooked so it often plays a quiet - but very important role - in our design plan. It creates interest, helps to set the mood of a room, and helps us to "feel" the room (because we remember how textures feel when we see them).

Typically, more traditional rooms have softer textures than those that are a bit more modern.Notice in the photo at left how the soft texture of the sofa contrasts nicely with the smoother texture of two of the throw pillows. The smoothness of the coffee table blends nicely with the textured sofa - and woven rug underneath adds another element. The smoothness of the lampshade helps balance the smoothness of the coffee table and the floral arrangements add their own very unique texture to the entire room.

Courtesy BHG

In a more contemporary room texture tends to play more of a minimalist role because of the sleekness of the style. However, even in this room, the chairs add a softness without the nubby comfort of the more traditional room. And all of the smoothness of the room is offset by the very plush rug, but without taking away from the contemporary look and feel of the room.

When incorporating texture into your room, keep in mind a few basic tips. Carry the texture story around the room, just like you do with the color story. Similar textures placed around the room will help carry your eye through the space, just as color does. In more colorful rooms, less is probably better with differing textures. The color statement may be so strong that a variety of textures may overwhelm the space. And finally, don't be afraid to do something a bit dramatic if it seems to be called for in the room. Just as that special accessory can add the punch a room needs, so can a very interesting texture.

If you'd like to see a few more examples of texture, check out my new board on Pinterest!

Late Summer/Early Fall Outdoor Entertaining

I know a lot of people consider Labor Day the end of summer. But there are actually still a few more weeks of summer. And even more weeks than that to enjoy the outdoors. In fact, late summer and early fall get-togethers can be some of the best of the year. You don't have to worry about a heat wave. Yummy fresh, local food is available, making recipes simple. People are looking for something to celebrate now that summer vacations are over. So now is the perfect time to have an outdoor party. Just keep in mind a few things to make it even better.

A great way to light the stairs

Because it gets dark earlier, have plenty of outdoor lighting. Bring lamps from the inside to the outdoors for the evening. Have plenty of candles in hurricanes or other protected containers that still give plenty of light. Place solar lighting in strategic locations. Make it safe for people to navigate while creating a warm ambience.

Prepare for cooler evenings. Have blankets and throws available. Set up a fire pit or a chimenea for both warmth and ambience. Invest in a heat lamp, especially if you would like to do this often.

Decorate for the season. Use apples, mums, pumpkins, acorns, leaves. Get creative and use these items for centerpieces, to hold food (hollowed out pumpkins make great soup bowls), as candle holders or as place cards.

Then relax..........and let the fun begin! And if you like these ideas, check out more on my new Pinterest board.