An Introduction to Pendant Lighting

What are pendant lights? Pendant lighting, also known as drop down or suspended lighting, typically consists of a single light that hangs from a higher place, such as a ceiling or porch. It is often held by a chain or cord, giving it the resemblance of a pendant necklace. These fixtures are often used in groupings as well as in single formations, depending on the environment. A single pendant light is usually hangs from a high porch above the door or over a table. However, they tend to be positioned in groups along kitchen bars or in hallways in a straight, line formation. Pendant lights can be found in a huge variety of materials, sizes, and shapes, making them extremely popular for home lighting. The right pendant fixture can really create a unique quality to any space.
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Pendant lights can be found in many different quality levels. Some pendant lights are actual works of art, worth thousands of dollars, while others, found in the local hardware stores etc, are purely functional and have little esthetic appeal. Because of this there is also a large range in quality and type of light emitted from pendant fixtures. The most basic types of pendant fixtures are dome shaped and cone shaped. Those that are dome shaped may be shallow to spread a large amount of light, or they may be narrow in order to produce a more direct beam. Dome pendants can be crafted from metal, painted glass, blown glass, and many more materials capable of holding a dome shape. Pendant lighting that is cone shaped is usually a more directional lighting source, allowing very little light to escape the area outside of the cone opening. The most common cone fixtures are manufactured out of pewter, stainless finishes, and colored glass. Though these fixtures cannot be expected to light up a room with a single unit, they can make wonderful ambience by placing several in a room together.
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There are many other shapes of pendant fixtures, such as triangular, rectangular, round, and square, and though these are lesser used, they allow for so much artistic freedom in the creation of pendant lights. Top lighting designers experiment with a large spectrum of shapes to create unique and interesting light fixtures. Some pendant lights are even designed from completely abstract shapes and designs. Pendant lighting design is an art form that combines the use of light with an artist's concept of shape and color, and the results can be masterful. This kind of work is no less credible than an original oil painting over the mantle, and it will definitely alter the atmosphere of a room.
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Think about all of these possibilities and the functions of the different types of pendant home lighting before making a purchase decision. The style of a pendant fixture should match the home while also serving bringing the right amount and type of light into the space.
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John Billington
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About the Author: John Billington is the president and CEO of Five Rivers Inc., a leading online provider of home lighting and bathroom lighting. For more information, please visit www.fiverivers.com.

The Perfect Places For Pendant Lighting

Pendant lighting is one of the most versatile lighting types around. What is pendant lighting? Well, pendant lights are hanging lights. Usually, pendant lighting is hung by either a rod or a chain. Sometimes, you can even use several of them at once to create an interesting effect. How do you decide what the perfect places for pendant lighting are, though? Let's find out.
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Things to think about before hanging pendant lighting:
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First of all, pendant lighting is best over seating areas or work areas, so you need to keep that in mind. Also, though, you could use pendant lighting to accent sculptures or artwork.
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Pendant lighting in the kitchen:
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Pendant lighting is great for kitchens. You might not have thought about decorating your kitchen with pendant lighting before. You might think that the kitchen space is meant to be useful, not pretty. Really, though, pendant lighting can be very useful, while still adding some style to your kitchen.
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For example, you could use pendant lighting over a kitchen island. That will keep your work space well lit. It'll also make your island stand out as a highlighted feature of the kitchen, though. The same is true if you happen to have a bar or a kitchen table that seems too dark. Pendant lighting can really brighten things up.
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Pendant lighting as a separation feature:
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If you have a large, open space and want to separate it into two separate areas, you could also use pendant lighting. Pendant lighting could be great for separating your living space from your dining space, for example, if you don't happen to have a wall between the two.
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Pendant lighting in your work space:
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Another problem that pendant lighting could help you solve is not having enough light in your office area. There's nothing worse than trying to fill out paperwork at your desk and not being able to see. Since pendant lighting hangs from the ceiling, it can really brighten things up. In fact, it usually works much better than a regular lamp.
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Pendant lighting in the bedroom:
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Another great place for pendant lighting is in your bedroom. It can add a bit of romance to the room. You could also use pendant lighting to highlight the bed or a chair or even to accent the headboard. You could even use multiple pendant lights together to create a totally different look with your pendant lighting in the bedroom. It's a great way of expressing yourself.
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Pendant lighting and dimmer switches:
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Pendant lighting has a lot of uses, but you can also combine it with dimmer switches for even more functions. What if your family was trying to watch a movie in the dark in the living room and you needed to do some work at your desk across the room? You could just dim the pendant lighting and let them enjoy the show while you work.
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So, as you can see, pendant lighting can be very helpful around the house. What are the perfect places for pendant lighting, though? Well, that all depends on your house and what you want to do. You be the judge.
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Jack Nguyen
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Eco-lights.com is an online retailer of diverse environmentally-friendly light fixtures and lighting products such as pendant lighting, chandeliers, table lamps, wall sconces, and additional lighting accessories.

Pendant Light Fixtures That Offer Perfect Touch of Class

There are many ways of using pendant light fixtures to achieve the desired results and an awesome atmosphere. These type of lighting fixtures are used for specific tasks or for general lighting around the house. They are usually installed over desks, night stands or even over kitchen tables. They are mostly preferred for making more space available at corners and they offer endless possibilities during set up, ensuring a conducive atmosphere.
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There are many factors that determine the choice of pendant light fixtures, some of these factors include the amount of light provided, the house decor expected, the overall house design and whether the pendant light fixtures will go well together with the other items that are already in place in the house. There are many interior designers and Lighting experts that can give you good advice if you face any difficulty in choosing the fixtures.
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One problem with pendant light fixtures is the fact that they hung too low in the house, blocking other views. They are therefore not recommended for the kitchen where everything needs to be seen to avoid accidents. One thing is for sure, they are the perfect additions above a game table, a night stand or end table and they often free up the space normally occupied by table lamps.
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You can purchase Pendant light fixtures online or from a home improvement store in your neighborhood where you can find a huge selection of quality pendant lighting; however the costs do not difer much, but they vary according to the brand and the complexity of design and wiring system that will be achieved. If you are looking for inverted pendant light fixtures, then you should be ready for what everyone is getting; appreciated products, great home decor and ambient atmosphere. They are the most perfect way to complement and enhance your decorating style.
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Peter Gitundu

Colored Glass Pendant Lighting

Bask In Elegant Light with Pendant Lightings

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In accordance with the style and theme of your room you may choose from traditional, contemporary, transitional and Tiffany pendant lighting fixtures. All these varieties provide elegance, clean cuts, bold lines and architectural superiority. However, it is better not to mistake pendant lighting with chandelier lighting. The former generally hung from a single sconce on the ceiling and sprouts a single chain or metal tube from there.
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Shapes and Size:
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The colored glass pendant lightings come in a large variety of shapes and size including rectangular, square, triangular and round. The contemporary lighting designers even experiments with a wide spectrum of shapes in order to create exclusive and appealing light fixtures. You can also find some pendant lights that have abstract shapes and designs that can revise the atmosphere of your room and create a mesmerizing effect. However, the most common type of colored glass pendant lightings are dome shaped and cone shaped. The dome shaped pendant lightings are either shallow spreading ample amount of light or narrow in order to release more direct ray. These types of colored glass pendant lightening are usually crafted with materials that are capable of holding a dome shape. The cone shaped pendant lightings are more directional lighting source that allows only a little amount light to escape.
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Quality levels:
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Colored glass pendant lightings are available in diverse quality levels. Some of them being real piece of art cost thousands of dollars while others have little esthetic appeal and are used more for practical purposes. Thereby the quality range of the light produced from these glass pendant lightings also varies.
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Tips while installing glass pendant lightings:

• Avoid fixing an open bottom colored glass pendant lighting too high as it is very irritating to look up into the light bulb every time.
• Avoid installing them too low as they can look very unappealing.
• Do not split the space into even sections while installing glass pendant lightings.
• Place 3-bulb colored glass pendant lightings in your breakfast nook to provide additional task lighting.

Lalit Manjrekar

Colored glass pendant lightings are attractive and show off the splendor and understate the drawbacks of your rooms. In fact, considering its popularity, the manufacturers offer a huge variety of colored glass pendant lightings in terms of shapes, sizes, textures and finishes.

Change the Look of Your House in an Instant With Pendant Lights for Some Decorative Lighting

Capital, Progress Lighting, Kichler, Hinkley, Murray Feiss, Metropolitan, Crystorama, Uttermost, Fine Art, World Imports, Savoy House, Artistic and Maxim - when it comes to indoor and outdoor lighting fixtures, these are just some of the bestselling brands that you can trust. Did you know that when you are decorating your home, once of the easiest and best ways to add drama to any area in the house is with the help of some decorative lighting? For example, instead of placing a few fluorescent bulbs on the ceiling in your hallway - you can instead put pendant lights which will instantly give character to that particular area. No matter which room in the house it is that you plan to renovate, the best way to add a unique touch to your decorating is with the help of pendant lights as decorative lighting.

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If you want to use pendant lights for your decorative lighting, here are a few basics about this lighting fixture that you need to know about. First, when it comes to the height of pendant lights as decorative lighting - you have a wide array of options to choose from. Depending on the brand of the lighting fixture that you will get, it can range from as small as 3 inches to as high as 47 inches, depending on where you would like to install the pendant lights. Meanwhile, the width ranges from 3 to 47 inches, or even larger.

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Next, when it comes to the finish of the pendant lights that you will use as decorative lighting, you also have a wide array of options to choose from. Take a look at the following: wood, verde, silver, rust, nickel, iron, gold, copper, chrome, bronze, brass, antique brass, black, painted finished, mixed composition or the classic white color. More importantly, pendant lights and other decorative lighting items come in energy efficient variants so that you will have the option to save on your utility bills.

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Aside from pendant lights, there are a lot of other indoor and outdoor lighting fixtures that you can use to illuminate and add style to your house. Remember that when choosing the type of lighting fixture to install, it should be both functional and stylish so that you can get your money's worth. The other types of indoor lighting fixtures that you can use are chandeliers for your living room, ceiling lights to illuminate your hallways, accent or spot lights for walls and ceilings, under cabinet lights for the bedroom, and bath or vanity lighting for your dresser. The same thing holds true for your outdoor lighting needs. You can take your pick from exterior sconces, post lanterns, landscape lightings, exterior ceiling fixtures, exterior pendants, security lights, flood lights and commercial outdoor lights. By determining exactly what type of decorative, indoor or outdoor lighting fixture it is that you need, you can rest assured that your decorating or home makeover project will be a resounding success - no matter which room in the house it is that you wish to change the look of.

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Clint Jhonson

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Change the look of any room in your house in an instant pendant lights! The selection of indoor and outdoor lighting fixtures that we have will be suitable for all your decorative lighting needs decorative lighting, so visit our site now!

Bathroom Pendant Lights

Bathroom pendant lighting fixture offers a whimsical touch of elegance to your living headquarters. Homeowners, who install pendant lighting fixtures, tend to hang these in kitchens and over bar areas. These illumination fixtures are perfect for task lighting over kitchen counters, islands, tables, and other workspaces. These illumination fixtures are also becoming more popular within the bathroom area. There are now a variety of decorative pendant lights that will accommodate the design theme within your bathroom.
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There has been a large online selection of bathroom pendant lighting fixtures and much more. We specialize in providing top-notch lighting fixtures and equipment for homes, as well as commercial sites. Both indoor and outdoor lighting products makes installation in specific locations is never a problem. The professional staffs and the experts can assist you with your lighting product selection and answer any questions you may have pertaining to installation, as well as lighting design.
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Every room within your home has its own personality, and the bathroom is no exception. This space is considered one of the most important areas within your living headquarters, because many essential tasks take place here everyday. Daily tasks, such as shaving, grooming, tooth brushing, and cleansing, get us going for the long day ahead. These tasks cannot be performed properly without adequate lighting. Pendant lights are a great way to enhance task illumination, while giving your bathroom a decorative touch at the same time.
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Pendant light fixtures come in many different shapes and styles. Homeowners can purchase long slender fixtures or cylinder shaped styles for a unique look. Some pendants have glass bowl shaped lampshades for an elegant touch of style. These lighting devices can be purchased in sets of three or four at a time, as well as individually, depending upon your needs. Bathroom pendants are extremely beautiful and will throw a touch of warm, soft illumination over your vanity space.
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Some of the pendant light fixtures that are designed with a Roman bronze finish and Alabaster glass lampshades. These gorgeous lights are not only attractive, but will provide a source of functional lighting in your bathroom. Homeowners should always use other types of light fixtures in addition to pendants within their bathroom space. RLLD has stylish ceiling lights and recessed fixtures to accommodate your vanity area. The goal is to provide this space with as much illumination as possible, so that shadows do not become a prevalent problem. Light fixtures placed at different angles within the bathroom will produce a combined illumination source that is efficient for the multiple tasks performed here.
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Lights within your vanity space should be beautiful and functional at the same time. Many mini pendant lights that come in a variety of finishes, including French Gold, Spanish Bronze, Harvest Bronze, to name a few. A dimmer switch should always control bathroom lighting, so residents can adjust light tone and set a particular mood for this space. Dimmer switches are adding another touch for your home, along with many other gadgets, including home automation products.
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Your bathroom may be the most used room within your home, but this should not take away from the personal theme you wish to create. Having the right type of illumination fixtures within this space will make all the difference in appearance and function.
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Kimberly Quang
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To learn more visit our bathroom pendant lighting section or read more about bathroom pendant lights.

Pendant Lighting For Your Home

Pendant lighting is not to be mistaken for chandelier lighting,which casts a softer more ambient light. Pendant lighting is usually hung from a single sconce on the ceiling from which sprouts a single chain or metal tube. The lamp shade itself is the "pendant" that dangles at the end.
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Pendant lighting is considerably more practical than other types of lighting, which is why you often see them in kitchens, bathrooms, hallways and other places that need to be well lit.
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Usually the shade on a pendant style light fixture is completely enclosed and made out of a white, cream or opaque glass. These pendant shades usually completely enclose the bulb although in the last decade, hat shaped or funnel shaped shades that are open at the end and that can be adjusted in height using adjustable wires are becoming quite common (especially as kitchen lighting fixtures in condominiums.) You often see them suspended in a row over a kitchen island in newly designed buildings or hanging high from a twenty-foot ceiling in a hallway.
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Pendant style lampshades are almost as old as lighting itself with the earliest version being the bare naked light bulb hanging from a fabric cord from a ceiling. This style of pendant lighting is known as the Burnside.
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Shades on pendant style lighting, which was first popularized in the forties in the form of gorgeous blown glass shells, have evolved to compromise all sorts of styles. Some of the most attractive styles of pendant lighting are inspired from this era which features glass globes that have been stepped or squared off with Art Deco touches. You can also find square or triangular open flute art deco shades that have wrought iron details and pastel colored glass panels.
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Pendant style tiffany lampshades are also quite striking looking but one problem with them is that they are not quite in style as a pendent. Floor lamps and table lamps look more contemporary then the hanging tiffany lamps, which unfortunately can make your place look too much like the interior of a chain restaurant.
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Yet another style of pendant lighting that seems to never go out of style is the Colonial. This type of lighting features a shade that looks like a lantern with a candle inside. A similar style is the Storybook style, which is made of cast iron and hangs from a heavy chain. Both of these styles tend to look better out of doors but they were often found indoors in the seventies if you are going for that kind of "horse drawn carriage" reference in your décor.
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Don't forget too that to be beautiful the stem of a pendant lampshade does not have to be really long. Shorter styles with stubbier tubes are reminiscent of the Edwardian and Art Deco eras and look contemporary and timeless at the same time. This is especially true if you can find a style that is shaped like a child's top, a trapezoid or deconstructed globe as these shapes are typical of this popular Mid-Century look in pendant lighting.
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Lauren Tyler
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Pendant lighting is versatile and decorative and becoming increasingly popular, especially kitchen pendant lights. Lauren Tyler is a writer for LampLightWorld.com.

Pendant Lights: a Complete Guide for Beautiful Lighting Design

History and introduction to pendant lighting fixture
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Pendant lighting is comparatively a baby in respect to other type of lights in the same category starting from the Huge Chandeliers. Actually if history is right, Pendant lights came into existence just as a useful substitute but a less detailed version of Chandeliers with almost same features and functionality. In fact it derived its name from pendant, a jewelry accessory. Its typical history dates back to 2700 B.C. It started with hanging lamps of clay with light given by an animal fat burn which was the way Greeks devised. As time past, clay lamps were replaced by Glass. In the 80s, European pendants began to appear with exclusive use of glass designs as pendants with attractive shades.
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The picture of the typical pendant light is a single fixture that hangs from the ceiling from a string or other kind of supporting device such as a metal rod. They are minuscule in detail as compare to the chandeliers and rather than having its lights exposed, the tip or the lower end employs types of shades which is for the same reason the fixture is described as the pendant light fixture. A pendant lighting fixture is also called a suspender or a drop and most often if single-hanging entities without the extra branches are used alone can give dramatic effect when two or three are used together suspended at varying heights. The light may be stripped to a bare bulb suspended from a cord, or housed in a decorative shade crafted from glass, resin, metal or fabric. During its earliest days, the pendant featured a crude type of blown glass shell, which eventually evolved into a huge style conscious make. Today, the variety of styles combined with customers demand has made pendant lights on par with other forms of lighting fixtures. A closer look around pendant lighting online store will surprise you with the extent to which this type of lighting has evolved.
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The Why’s and What’s of Pendant Lighting
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One of the crucial features of the pendant lights is its versatility. Pendants can often be found in living room, small foyers, kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms and it can suit each space with equal ease. Pendants lights are much different from other types of lights and command the same respect as jewellery. They sparkle, enlighten, and soften a clean, austere environment. In actuality, pendant lights can be every bit as fancy as chandeliers, because one gets pendant lights studded with Swarovski crystals or dangling gemstones. One of the other most important benefits of pendant lights is it never needs re modifications of your existing space like drilling a hole in the ceiling as the case with recessed lights or hammering your walls for those classic wall scones. This drastically reduces the installation time along with peace of mind and yes, brings down your lighting investment. Pendant lighting fixtures do not have the grand scale of a tiered chandelier and are ideal when space and cost is a concern. Wherever space is an issue, mini-pendants can be hung from above, effectively freeing up space in the room for furniture and other things.
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They are stylish, have a simple elegance, are functional and provide illumination in hard to light areas. Mini-pendants typically serve as task lights which define the work surface of a kitchen island or bar. Pendants can also be used to spice-up a room or to instigate authentic schemes. When hung in multiple, either multiple pendant fixtures or single pendant fixtures lined up in line, they can effectively set that evening calming mood. Another classic benefit of pendant lights is its wide options available in the market. It could be chosen for their varieties in different form, colour, pattern and texture and prices. Pendants are an eye catcher in it’s not something you want to cut corners on when considering a purchase. There are tons of styles and configurations available today and with a little persistence, you can find just the right fixture for both your décor and your budget. An inexpensive pendant gives you what you pay for and if it wears out, replacing it can be a chore that you won’t relish. A single pendant design fixture can cost very less to a five pendant traditional light costing bit more to the more traditional shade five pendant lights costing higher.
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Pre- Shopping guide for Pendant lighting fixture
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First thing to look before going on shopping for pendant lights will be to know what will be its function and which part of your home will need them. Pendant fixtures are normally used for general or task lighting. Pendants can be used as stand alone lighting for a particular area or can be used in combination with other lighting fixtures, particularly in larger areas. Narrow areas that need lighting are ideal candidates for a single low pendant light. Considering the pendant size, they can range in size from two inches, to a multiple pendant fixtures that is 22 to 48 inches in diameter ideally suited to brighten from small task area in a kitchen to a bigger hallway. For example, for a pendant installed over a dining table, possibly choose a pendant no larger in diameter than half the width of the table. For an entry foyer, add the width and length dimensions of the foyer together and the calculated total equal the maximum pendant diameter. Nowadays pendant lights comes in varied styles and colours right from single glass pendant light fixture to 5 pendant traditional light to a 8 pendant lamp shaded traditional light fixture. Whatever style and colour you choose, decide whether you want to blend with the décor or want to make it a focal point. After looking at these aspects, the most important thing to look next is you’re lighting especially your pendant lighting budget. Luckily, today there are lots of style choices and hopefully you will find a suitable pendant lighting fixture that will respect your budget. Whatever budget you have decided, make sure it doesn’t compromise the quality which resides in the many details of pendant lighting fixtures. Quality in pendant lighting fixtures means authenticity in design details and fine craftsmanship. See to it that finishes are both durable and handsome. High quality finishes on pendant lighting increase durability and resist tarnishing. Brushed metal finishes and painted finishes have gained popularity and are top sellers today. To understand these entire factors better, possibly consult the light shop’s customer service department. A good store will have some lighting experts who will guide you in selecting needed pendant fixtures with in your budget and may also advice complimenting wall scones and other lighting fixtures.
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We at For your Home really feel reading the above information, you will at least check one pendant lighting fixtures today.
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You can also read this article on our website’s News and article section here.

Wall Tapestry Irises by Monet - Bring Artistic Expression Into Your Lives

Claude Monet (1840 - 1925) painted a handful of paintings with the title "Irises" in his lifetime. Irises by Claude Monet should not be confused with Vincent Van Gogh's painting of a similar title. Monet's many Irises sometimes come in different colors, but all just as stunning as the other. There is a painting with predominantly yellow irises, then there's also another painting with predominantly purple ones. One version is called Irises by the Pond, still another version is called Irises in Monet's Garden. Although Van Gogh's Irises share a name with Monet's paintings, and though all Irises are strikingly beautiful in their own right, each Irises is as unique as paintings go.

Monet was part of a group of Impressionist artists that changed the face of artistic expression forever. Monet, a native of Paris France, painted outdoors, in an attempt to capture the ever-changing effects of colors and light. He painted the same subject at different points throughout the day. His painting of irises depicts the flowers in his beautiful garden in Giverny. Monet's painting was influenced by Japanese design, which is full of sensuous silhouettes. The painting depicts the beautiful flower blossoming on a ground bursting with colors of gold and reflecting the rays of the sun.

Because of its sheer beauty, Irises has been reproduced and translated onto countless wall prints, wall hangings, tapestries as well as oil paintings by other artists. This wall decor makes the perfect addition to your home, whether your home is European-inspired or whether you have an eclectic home with an Oriental motif. Just looking at the soothing colors of lavender, green and yellow already makes one feel right at home.

Some reproductions of Monet's Irises are available online, in the form of prints, wall fabric and tapestries. Most sellers include other useful materials such as mounting brackets as well as the screws to make installation more a simple affair. Why go for a print reproduction when you can opt for a real oil painting? Some artists choose to make copies of this work of art by staying as true to the original painting as possible, while they are only copies of the real thing, there is really no denying that they are almost as beautiful as the original piece. The real Irises hang in Musee d'Orsay in France.

Alex Hanson

Classic Wall Decor - Tapestries Transform Your Home Decor From Ordinary to Exceptional

Tapestries are once again becoming a more and more popular choice for people who want to decorate their homes and living spaces. Because of the wide variety of choices available in the market these days, the task of finding one that is suitable for your home, your taste and your style may be a bit daunting and overwhelming.

If you are choosing a wall tapestry for the very first time, it is probably best to narrow down your choices to classic wall tapestries. The classic types are those decorative wall hangings that focus on timeless, enduring and universal themes. Such themes include human nature, love, tragedy and death, to name a few. Aside from these, these decorative artworks can also represent a certain time period or an era. These include those hanging works of art inspired by the Medieval Ages, The Renaissance, The Neo-Classical Era and The Baroque time period, to name just a few.

The Medieval kind is well-known for featuring events and incidents that took place during the 18th and 19th centuries. Hunting scenarios, knights, noblemen and aristocracy, and unicorns are commonly seen. These works of art are often made from materials like wool, linen, cotton and silk. Examples of these include The Lady and the Unicorn, Awaiting the Chase, Hawking Scene, and Chevalier.

The Renaissance kind somewhat overlaps and intertwines with the Medieval kind and depicts illusions on what reality should be. It typically features Knights and noblemen, themes of Romance and Myths, as well as Verdure. It can be described as more intellectual, more scientific, and more abstract. The mast artist Raphael is closely associated with this specific type of decorative wall hanging. Examples of these include Condotierre, Promenade, The Manta, and Verdure Cascade.

Classical wall tapestries from the Neo-Classical and Baroque Era and Time Periods were made from the years 1570 to 1720. Most of these works of art were commissioned by kings, popes and members of the European nobility during the said time frame. They depict battle scenes, sieges, historical events or accounts, religious events and mythological tales, and the life and times of famous personalities (such as popes and other church leaders, conquerors like Alexander the Great, kings and world leaders). Examples of the art form from these two eras include the Manufacture Royale des Tapisseries de la Couronne (made for Louis XIV of France), A Naval Battle, The Siege of Bouchain, History of the King, and The Triumph of the Gods.

Educational as well as visually beautiful, a tapestry is woven into a fine work of art telling us a story, make believe or otherwise, it's a conversation piece that brings class and style into your home decor.

Alex Hanson

Decorating Large Wall Spaces With Tapestries

With the growth of new homes constructed with large wall spaces and high vaulted ceilings, it can be difficult to decide how to decorate these areas. Many home owners have discovered the idea of a large wall tapestry. The walls of your home are one of the main focuses one sees while entering a room or foyer. Having empty large wall spaces diminishes the charm of a room and creates a less than inviting appearance. Tapestries have been used for ages to fill large areas and also to add warmth and color to a room. Tapestries from old world designs to modern day designs can help fill these open spaces perfectly.

When choosing what type tapestry will fit nicely, one must decide the dimensions of the wall space. Is there more horizontal space to fill or vertical space? Remember that a poor fitting wall hanging can look worse than an open space. You want to have sufficient bordering of the wall surrounding your wall hanging, so as not to cover the entire wall. The tapestry would be a focal point and not a total covering of the wall space. At the same time too small of a wall hanging can look too isolated and lost. Always allow at least a "framework" of wall around the tapestry.

For foyer areas with long and thin wall spaces, Portiere tapestries can fit perfectly. Most are less than three feet wide and up to 80 inches long. Many Portieres can be purchased in matching pairs or pairs that compliment each other.

For wider areas, horizontal tapestries come in a wide range of styles and most popular are landscape scenes. From European country sides to Tuscan scenes, the tapestry industry offers a wide selection.

Stairways with vaulted ceiling would benefit from large longer than wider wall tapestry. Most popular ones range from 50 inch plus across and 70 inch plus long.

A wall tapestry should be hung 1/1/2 to 2/1/2 inches away from wall to avoid moisture buildup. Modern day tapestries are generally not intended for heating purposes as in medieval days, so hanging right up against a wall is not necessary and may only ruin the wall hanging.

And finally, choosing a hanging rod with decorative finials, and adding tassels creates an artistic look.

Connie_Wallace

Floral Wall Tapestry - Textures of an Art Form

Floral tapestry wall hangings have a unique texture that is not found in any other art form. The combination of threads, colors and weaves create a genuine art experience that can change with each viewing angle. These pieces of art will last through many generations and owning just one is a solid investment for your wall decor collection.

When we take a look back in history we find that tapestries began flourishing in France during the middle ages. The number of tapestries woven in this time period has never been surpassed. They were considered a luxury item for royalty and the very wealthy. On a practical level, tapestries were not only used as decorations, but they also provided privacy around beds, partitioned rooms, prevented drafts and insulated from the cold.

Floral tapestries are vast and varied. They include themes from contemporary floral arrangements to the traditional still life. Floral tapestries usually included decorative vertical panels with garlands, wreaths, scenes and lush green foliage.

For those with expensive tastes, some companies specialize in fine floral designs with hand woven wool fabrics using natural dyes and handspun yarns with various traditional weaving methods. Today few tapestries are hand woven. Most are machine and loom made using modern yarns and techniques which allow us to enjoy works of art at affordable prices. Some weavers use linen threads such as wool, silk, cotton, silver, gold and other fibers to produce magnificent and colorful images.

Floral tapestries carry with them the simple beauty of nature and spring. They bring your gardens into your home. No mater what the temperature is outside, just a glance will fill you with warmth inside. They make your space fresh and elegant and can also create a mood of romance.

You can add these wall hangings to any room of your home, then watch and be amazed on how the room will come alive. It seems to capture the beauty of life and celebrates every stitch to give your home an atmosphere of unique sophisticated decor. The combination of visual appeal, acoustic resonance and practicality give this art form a stunning and welcoming addition for any home. With the wide selection of floral tapestries available today, this form of wall art will bring the room together because you will be able to select a style that will match the theme of any room you wish to hang one of these woven artworks in.

They are available in various sizes, colors, designs and shapes and can also be customized to your own specific design and taste. What ever you choose, it is certain to be an eye catching conversation piece.

Be sure to use lighting to maximize the effect of the floral tapestry. Proper lighting will bring out all the detail that was meant to be seen. This will help make it the focal point of the room. Because floral tapestries usually have so many vibrant colors, the light must be bright and white. This white light will illuminate the tapestry as it falls directly on the fabric.

It is best not to hang your floral tapestry in direct sunlight. As with any wall hanging, sunlight will fade the piece over time.

Before hanging, check to see what your walls are made from. If they are made from plaster you can hang your tapestry against the wall or one inch off the wall. If your walls are made of sheet rock, then use brackets and keep the tapestry two inches off the wall.

Once you have decided on your first floral tapestry it will fully embrace and energize you to continue your search and explore creative ideas to add another splendid piece to your decor.

Barbara Tobiasz

Wall Tapestry Ideas to Spruce Up Your Home Decor

To create a dramatic, elegant look and feel in your home, you'll need deep, rich colors with stimulating artistic designs. One way to achieve this look is to add wall tapestries. A tapestry is a fabric of multiple colors and designs, which are woven upon a warp by hand. The finished tapestry can be used as a furniture throw or covering, a wall hanging, or for other adorning purposes.

Wall hangings can be used to accent any room. They come in all shapes and sizes, so you can use a wall tapestry to decorate a small wall in a hallway or as the center decor piece of a large room. Wall tapestries come in a variety of colors and designs, so you can easily find a pattern to match your current paint colors, wallpaper, flooring or carpet, and furnishings in any room.

• Types of Wall Tapestries

Wall tapestries reflect many themes so you can easily find one to fit your style. If you prefer medieval decor, there are plenty of medieval tapestry patterns to choose from, including 11th century Bayeux, unicorns, King Arthur, Godfrey de Bouillon, Milani, Vendanges, and many others. For a religious decor theme, some of the more popular wall hanging themes include Angel of Light, Christ, Be not afraid, Annunciation, The Last Supper, Madonna, The 23rd Psalm, Vierge Roc, etc. There are also Belgian and European wall tapestry themes, William Morris tapestries, and a variety of Eastern and Oriental creations.

If you prefer a more general home decor, try wall tapestries with animal and wildlife themes, floral patterns, nautical artwork, landscapes, or other general themes. World map tapestries are also popular for those who love to travel (or often dream of traveling) to foreign lands, or for anyone interested in world history and geography.

• Wall Tapestry Decor Tips

Choose wall tapestries that will work well with your other decor accessories. Tapestries can be added near a lamp and table or on a wall beside a floor lamp. They also fit beautifully between a couple of wall sconces, which can be used to light up the tapestry and bring out its colors and designs. For the kitchen, look for a wall tapestry to fit with your kitchen colors. Bright floral and fruit patterns work well in most kitchens. For the bathroom, hang a tapestry above a decorated shelf or near a mirror. Tapestries with deep, rich colors usually look great in bath decor as well as those with scenic paintings such as country or farm scenes. Animal wall hangings look great in the bath or kitchen.

In the bedroom, hang a calming wall tapestry above your headboard or above a dresser. Accent the tapestry with wall flowers or figurine shelves. Tapestries also look great above fireplaces or in any dining area. Other accessories to consider along with tapestries are statues, rugs, lamps or chandeliers, silk flowers, paintings, family portraits, and wall fountains.

Wall tapestries can be used to add dramatic affect to any room's decor. Tapestries also work well to decorate any business office, restaurant, hotel room, or hospital rooms and waiting areas. Go online today to browse all the colors and themes available to find an affordable wall tapestry for your home or business.

Chris Robertson

Home Decorating Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I choose a good-quality sofa?

I want a sofa that I'll be able to keep for years. What should I look for?

Hardwood frames that are glued and screwed in place are the most hardwearing. Quality sofas have individual coil springs; mid-price versions use zigzag springs; and budget ones have webbing. Washable, loose covers are good for families, and close-woven covers are durable. But to check if it's well-made, simply sit on it!

• How do I make old floorboards look good?

Sand them with a specialist machine, starting with medium-grade abrasive paper, then going over it again with a fine-grade one. Give the floor three coats of varnish, sanding lightly by hand between coats.

• Which blinds are best in lofts?

I've just had my loft converted and need to get some blinds for the windows. Is there an alternative to plain roller blinds?

You'll need blinds in your loft as the light will be very strong and will wake you up early in the morning in the summer. If you're after something a bit different, pleated blinds have a soft, pretty effect and diffuse light, while traditional roller blinds will help prevent light reflecting on computer and TV screens. Blackout versions are worth considering - they fit into channels at the sides of the window to stop light getting in around the edges - they're perfect for light sleepers. Venetian blinds are another option, allowing you to tilt the blinds as well as open and close them for maximum flexibility.

• How do I try out paint colours without ruining my walls?

I can never decide which paint looks best in my room before I buy, and I don't really want to put patches of colour all over my walls for weeks. Is there a simpler way that will help me choose the right colour for my room?

Instead of painting tester pots directly onto the walls, use them to paint a large sheet cut from lining paper. The lining paper can then be easily moved around so you can try it on different walls, without spoiling the look of your room.

• Can I use bold wallpaper in a small room?

My bedroom is tiny but I want to use a bold-patterned wallpaper. Nice or nasty?

Nice! A big pattern will have an impact in a small room, but use it on just one wall. Choose the colour of the wallpaper carefully - brights will make a small room feel smaller, and soft colour contrasts in the paper create a sense of space. Balance the overall effect by picking plain colours, subtle textures or small motifs for other furnishings.

• How do I create a relaxing lighting scheme?

I'm fed up with only having an overhead light, as it doesn't make the room look very welcoming. How can I make it more relaxing?

Recessed ceiling-mounted spotlights or a pendant light will give you good overall light, but if that's your only source, the lighting can feel harsh. Soften the overall effect by adding a table lamp next to your sofa and a floor lamp or reading light near your armchair. You should be aiming for around two to three separate light sources for an average-sized room to create pools of light where you need them.

• What's the best layout for a formal living room?

The kids have left home so I want to create a more formal living room. What's the best way to lay out it out?

If you want a formal room, whatever your style, the one rule is symmetry! Arrange furniture symmetrically and you'll give your room the grown-up look you're after. If you have plenty of space, move your sofa so it's facing two identical armchairs or an identical sofa. You can also use tricks like adding a pair of side tables with matching lamps, or arranging a set of four prints in matching frames on the wall. If you don't have the space for all of these different elements, choose smaller pieces such as carver chairs instead of upholstered versions. Then just arrange them around a focal point - whether it's a fireplace, window or a coffee table.

• What good-value curtains work with sash windows?

I've got high ceilings and beautiful sash windows - but a tight budget. How should I dress them?

An elegant Roman blind will give a clean and simple finish to your room. Or, if you prefer curtains, don't think that having high ceilings means you can't get away with ready-mades. Sash windows look great with floor-length curtains, so choose the longest pair you can find. If they come up short, add a contrasting 'hem' to the bottom of the curtains for an elegant look. You don't even need to be a dab hand with a sewing machine as you can simply iron on some Vilene Extra Strong Wundaweb (£1.99 for 3m, www.amazon.co.uk) for a quick fix.

• How do I revamp my interior doors?

I want to revamp my interior doors. I've sanded them down and chosen the paint, but I've heard there's a special way to do the job - can you explain?

Preparation is key. Wipe the door with a damp cloth to get rid of dust, then leave to dry. To paint, wedge the door open, remove the handle and fittings and slide a dustsheet underneath. If it's a panelled door, paint the mouldings around each of the recessed panels using an eggshell or gloss paint, then paint the panels, working from the top downwards. Paint the horizontal cross rails starting at the top and working down, then paint the vertical centre rail and two side rails. Finally, paint the door's side edges. A second coat is usually needed after the first has dried. When completely dry, pain the doorframe and surrounding architrave. If it's a plain door, imagine a vertical line down the centre, and horizontal lines running across, dividing it into eight or 10 squares. Paint the top left, then top right, working down. To paint a glazed door, stick masking tape around the edge of the panes to protect them. Then start by painting the mouldings as you would a regular panelled door.

• What's the easiest way to use pattern?

I'm really keen on using plain colours in my home, but I'd also love to introduce a block of pattern to update my style. What's the easiest way for a pattern novice to get started?

Start small, limiting yourself to a few accessories such as a cushion or a lamp shade with a bold design. The easiest design to work with is one that has a white or cream background and a simple motif. Pick any patterns you want to use in just one colour, so you can add to the scheme as your confidence grows and you'll know that everything will always work together.

• How can I divide up a long, narrow room?

I have a long, narrow living room - what's the best way to divide up the space, without doing any building work?

A long narrow room can feel quite daunting, so it's best to divide it up into two 'zones'. You might have a living zone and a dining zone, or a relaxation zone with the television, plus a quieter area for working. Use a sofa or open bookcase as a divider and you'll be left with two much more manageable room shapes. Use the structure of the room to decide what function would suit each area. For example, a focal point such as a fireplace is ideal for building a living area around, while the space by the window is great for a dining table or mini home office. Don't worry if there's no obvious focal point - if you use the area for entertaining, make your sofa the centre of attention.

• What sort of carpets are suitable for hallways?

I've been told I need a heavy-duty carpet for my hall and landing, but i don't know exactly what I should be looking for. Can you help?

A carpet that's labelled 'Heavy Domestic' or 'Extra Heavy Domestic' should be able to cope with the high traffic of busy areas such as a hall and landing. To be certain the carpet has been rigorously tested, look for the Carpet Foundation Quality Mark. A carpet containing around 80% wool and 20% nylon is more resilient and less prone to flattening than other types, as nylon fibres are extremely hard wearing. Don't stint on underlay, as a good-quality version will prolong the life of the carpet even more.

• What curtains work best against radiators?

My radiator is under my window, but I don't like short curtains. What are my options?

Teaming narrow dress curtains with a blind is a good solution. Dress curtains are narrower than standard curtains and aren't designed to draw across the window, so they won't prevent you enjoying the heat from the radiator, but they'll still give you the look you want.

• Is there a knack to matching up patterned wallpaper?

I'm having a go at putting up wallpaper for the first time. Is there a knack to matching up patterns?

If the room has a focal point such as a fireplace, start papering here; otherwise, start from a window. When measuring the first wallpaper length, make sure a whole motif will be at the top of the wall, then allow an extra 5cm on the top and bottom, which you'll trim off later. If the wallpaper has a straight pattern repeat, the motifs will line up horizontally across the wall, and you need to cut each length starting at the same point in the design. If the design is offset, the motifs line up diagonally, so each length needs to be moved up or down to allow for this. Once you've hung the first length against a plumb line on the wall, you can slide the second length into position for a perfect match, or pull it away and reposition it.

• Does blue paint have to look cold?

I want to paint my bedroom blue, but it's north-facing. Will it look too cold?

Blue needn't be a cold colour if you pick the right shade and balance it with some warmer tones. A sky blue will look cheerful, and can be warmed up with cream paintwork and peachy-toned highlights. Alternatively, pick out a blue paint that's close to violet and has a pinky tone. You can then accessorise with a pink, floral bedspread or curtains for a warmer look. In a north facing room, the blue shades to avoid are those that seem dull or have a grey tinge.

• Can you help us locate a stunning feature radiator?

We are having an awful lot of difficulty finding a feature radiator for the living room. To be honest, we haven't been impressed by any of the the 'Art' radiators we've seen so far so thought we'd ask for expert advice instead. The wall dimensions are 4ft x 13ft.

There's been a huge push recently to turn radiators into sculptural pieces that can hang on the wall rather than being utility elements designed to blend into the home. Some are good, some are tragic , but they all cost a small fortune. Several of the most impressive are made by Caleido, who have produced a number of highly textural variations, such as their great Honey, Skin and Air models.

• Where can I find curtain poles with the 'Wow' factor?

I've inherited a beautiful swagged curtain in a fantastic gold and black silk fabric. I'm planning on having it in the bedroom, but wanted to source some curtain poles and fittings that will keep the wow factor. We don't have much on offer in my area and the DIY stores' offerings are a little twee. Do you have any suggestions?

Fabricant designs and produces just the sort of fittings you're after, well detailed and individual. What's more it has a superb range of finishes to choose from (gunmetal is a favourite). The traditional finials and tiebacks are all there, but the contemporary selection has some real gems, like the Portcullis and Reeded designs. A popular pole size to use is the 50mm, and I'd budget about £800 for the full ensemble.

We want to match our original brickwork to that of our extension.

We're planning an extension and want to match the brickwork of the main house, but can't find anything that looks close. The building dates back to about 1820. Do you have any contacts?

There are about 2,000 types of bricks on the market, so there's usually something similar. As well as the huge range of new bricks, there's a massive market for reclaimed brick, so check your local architectural yard. Builders merchants are also usually good sources, but your best bet is to call in the specialists like Brick Find.

• Is coloured lighting in a bathroom floor possible and, if so, is it safe?

I've seen a picture of a bathroom with coloured lighting in the floor, which I'm interested in recreating at home. Do you know of a supplier, and is this lighting really safe for the bathroom, as I have a very inquisitive two year old?

I imagine you saw fibre optic lights rather than halogen, which, although they run on a safer low voltage, get very hot. Fibre optics are perfectly safe for wet areas like bathrooms and also outdoors, because the actual light source can be housed out of harm's reach, many metres away. All that's required is to route the fibre-optic ropes (which are just like a tube that the light is piped down) to where you need the lighting, and then cap with the finishing lens fitting.

Be warned: colour changing lighting can be more disco than spa if not done professionally, so sticking with static colours is recommended. The positioning and the installation still need to be well considered and competently carried out, so don't rush into fitting this type of lighting just on a whim.

Good-quality fibre optic kits can be bought online for around £400 through Unlimited Light.

• Can coloured lighting be installed in a bathroom floor, and is it safe to do so?

I've seen a picture of a bathroom with coloured lighting in the floor, which I'm interested in recreating at home. Do you know of a supplier, and is this lighting really safe for the bathroom, as I have a very inquisitive two year old?

I imagine you saw fibre optic lights rather than halogen, which, although they run on a safer low voltage, get very hot. Fibre optics are perfectly safe for wet areas like bathrooms and also outdoors, because the actual light source can be housed out of harm's reach, many metres away. All that's required is to route the fibre-optic ropes (which are just like a tube that the light is piped down) to where you need the lighting, and then cap with the finishing lens fitting.

Be warned: colour changing lighting can be more disco than spa if not done professionally, so sticking with static colours is recommended. The positioning and the installation still need to be well considered and competently carried out, so don't rush into fitting this type of lighting just on a whim.

Good-quality fibre optic kits can be bought online for around £400 through Unlimited Light.

• How can we display our photos and children's pictures?

We've got lots of our sons' school and nursery pictures and we've been searching for a way to display them. We did see a solution in a magazine, which was almost like a washing line - a suspended wire you could peg pictures to. Do you have any ideas?

Yes, the 'washing line' idea is probably the most simple way to clip up pictures. Just hang a wire or string between wall hooks and attach the pictures with wooden clothes pegs which can be painted any colour you like. Another idea is to designate a 'graffiti wall' space to display art, painting picture areas and frames, which can then be filled up. You could also paper a wall in the now classic wallpaper 'Frames' by Chris Taylor and Craig Wood for Graham & Brown (0800 328 8452).

• Is there a company that stocks Japanese soak-in baths in the UK?

We are about to start designing our first flat. The bathroom is very small and we would love to have a Japanese soak-in bath to enable us to have a shower as well. We have looked through lots of UK websites, but nobody seems to have what we're after. Any ideas?

What you're looking for is sometimes referred to as a Roman bath and many people in the UK are interested in sourcing these. Unfortunately, although they are common elsewhere in the world, we've not yet found anyone who imports them to the UK. Your best option may be to have one specially made up. Eros2 can produce bespoke granite and marble/resin shower trays in a range of colours, so you'll be able to have something unique tailored to fit your requirements exactly.

• Can we use stainless steel as a splashback on a curved wall?

We are planning to refit our kitchen soon and would like to use stainless steel as a splashback. The problem is that the walls are very curvy and the oven sits in an alcove that's quite rounded. Where can we get sheet metal made to fit this complicated wall?

It sounds as if you're setting yourself a rather difficult task with a surface that's as complex as this. Sheet stainless steel is easily fabricated for flat surfaces and simple rolled curves, but anything more demanding than this and you could end up with messy welds, folds and seams that would ruin the whole look. Your best solution when working with curved surfaces is to go for mosaic tiles, and there's a stunning range of metallic tiles called Metallismo produced by SICIS. The tiles are rust- and scratch-resistant, are available in both gold and silver, and there's even a unique mixed range in various mosaic shapes. So, rather than have a fairly uninspiring run of plain stainless steel splashback, you could create something really breathtaking.

• Can you suggest a light fitting to complement our dark, richly decorated living room?

We'd love some advice on a suitable hanging shade for our living room. The area is panelled and has dark-wood flooring, plus we have deep reds, greys and brass fittings within the colour scheme. We want the space to keep its dark, smoking-room look, and need a light fitting that would complement this.

If you want to preserve the 'gentleman's club' feel of the room, then I'd suggest not choosing a bright shade, but one that conceals light. It needs to have a definite air of grandeur and solidity, so no wispy lighting features here. CTO's Apollonaire range would be perfect. It has an elegant embassy-look black cotton shade with a fabulous hidden gold interior.

• Can you help me find a product that provides natural light in a dark room?

I'm searching for a product I know is available, but whenever I ask at local builders' merchants, they look at me as if I'm talking a different language. The product is a cylindrical tube that has a mirrored internal surface and a clear tile cover to the top and the base. It's used to provide natural light in a dark internal space. would also assume it can be extended to allow for variations in depths between roof and ceiling covers.

The product you're looking for is called a sun pipe. It's basically a very highly polished/mirrored tube with a lens on top that collects light and funnels it down the tube.

• Is it safe to adapt Ikea shelving units?

We have an Ikea shelving system in our study that my husband wants to 'adapt' to fit a disparate collection of hi-fi equipment. Is it OK to cut and add to shelving like this, or will we end up with something unsafe and unusable?

Adapting Ikea products is not for the faint-hearted. Because of the materials Ikea uses, you may end up with messy edges and you could lose some of the structure's rigidity. It may be worth getting a joiner to make it up 18mm MDF instead, or check out the range of adapted Billy shelves at Ding3000.

• Is it possible to dye or stain laminate flooring to match existing flooring?

My son's south London flat was mainly laid with a laminate floor when he bought it. The long hallways was carpeted, however, so he replaced it wit ha laminate. Unfortunately, it's a much lighter shade than the existing flooring. Is it possible to dye or stain laminate flooring to match and, if so, where could I source such a product?

Not a chance! Laminate is actually a paper photoprint coated with resin and, because of its resistant properties, you'll have no luck tinting it. If you want to change the colour, your only option is to go for a new floor. It's possible to lay a new one on top of the existing floor, but you may then have to re-set the skirting boards and cut the bottom of the doors to the higher floor level. However, as laminate is a poor imitation of wood and you can now get the real thing for a good price, why not replace it entirely? Engineered wood boards are slices of real wood sandwiched with insulation that absorbs noise. They can also be sanded in the future. Kahrs does engineered boards from £16 per sq m. Or visit Wickes, which sell solid pine flooring for less than £15 per sq m.

• Where can I get a modern turned wood table without a designer price tag?

I've seen a gorgeous red table that's made by Zanotta with a turned wood stem. It's out of my price range, but I'd love something similar. Any ideas where to look?

The Zanotta table you mean is the Doris by Dominique Mathieu. This season there's turned detail on lots of pieces of designer furniture, so you shouldn't have to look too far to get something close to what you have in mind. For starters, Habitat does the Spin table by Alex Dreyer, £499, which is nice and sleek, but not red unfortunately. If you really want that colour, then another option is to buy an antique piece and paint it in RAL3003, which you can get mixed up in Dulux paint. Now is a very good time to buy, as prices have tumbled. And don't be put off by things that aren't exactly what you are looking for; a lot of antique furniture can easily be updated wit ha splash of colour or new upholstery, so get down to your local auction room.

I need inspiration to help create a Fifties-style diner kitchen.

I'm looking to get some inspiration and help to design a Fifties-style kitchen-diner. I don't have a lot of space, but I'm happy to take on board any ideas.

In the Fifties, Italian cafés in London featured great materials, like strongly patterned Formicas, chrome trims, sharp angles,expressive typefaces and coherent interiors that were expertly detailed..

• The glass in my Forties dining-room-divied needs replacing. Where can I get similar glass?

I'm trying to find a special patterned glass for a Forties dining-room divider. The divider is made from teak and has long, vertical panels of glass with bumped stripes , which look like a lens. Unfortunately, one of the three panels is badly damaged and our local glazier has told us we are unlikely to find anything like it. Can you help?

I think you're describing 'reeded' glass. It's not common and you may find that modern versions have thinner reeds than older glass, which tends to be more pronounced. Pearsons Glass has a few designs with reeding up to 8mm wide which costs around £45 per sq m.

• Where can I get set of large curtains dyed?

I've inherited a set of large (8ft drop) cotton curtains with swags and cords. The overall size and shape is perfect for where I'm going to use them, but the colour is all wrong. I've searched for someone to dye them to a more usable colour, but no one can do this size of curtain, and I wonder if you know anyone that could help me.

Unfortunately, there are very few options in London (surely a gap in the market here! ), but Chalfont Ltd (020 7935 7316) in Baker Street can help you. Expect a turnaround of about five weeks and be aware that Chalfont only dyes natural fabrics, not synthetics.

• I want to change my light switches, but the recesses are too shallow. What should I do?

I live in a Thirties mansion block and recently wanted to replace all the light switches with dimmers. When I removed one of the switches, the recess behind it was too shallow to contain the modern dimmer. Are there shallower switches or will I have to get all the recesses made deeper?

Most standard fittings are relatively thick unless you go for more complex electronic sensor switches, which we wouldn't recommend in your case. Any electrical work needs to be undertaken and certified by a qualified person (this is all to do with the Part P building regulations - find an electrician at niceic.org.uk). And also get the electrician to sort the recesses, too, to be on the safe side.

• What's the best method of painting over strong colours?

What's the best method of painting over strong colours? I'm currently redecorating a buy-to-let flat that has garish green and red walls, which are a still showing through after three coats of paint. First paint over the colour with a grey undercoat. This deadens the colour and stops it coming through when you paint your final colour choice. Another factor to consider is that most DIY paints can be a little thin in their consistency, and therefore coverage, so it's worth spending a bit extra to buy professional paint. One of the best white emulsions around is made by JW Bollom.

• How can I keep flies out of my house in the summer?

Now summer's finally here and I can open all the windows, I'm getting more and more annoyed by all the flies that get in the house. I don't want to put up nets or to keep windows shut all the time. Any ideas?

As we head for hotter summers, this problem is growing. After suffering the same problem myself, I discovered a brilliant (and cheap, at £1 per m) material - black 'dress net,' the stuff used for tutus and veils. Fixed across windows, it becomes almost invisible, but still allows a breeze through, so your home can look modern and have the windows open all night. Available in fabric stores and at Fabricland.

Penny_Day

Home Insurance For Home Decorating

Here are some steps you should consider:

• Add your latest contents to your policy: If you've brought new items into the home over the Christmas period ensure your policy is up to date. You don't want to break something new and then find you weren't covered.
• Ensure you have accidental damage cover: Paint spills, dropped ornaments and other breakages will only be covered under the accidental damage element of a policy. Generally accidental damage cover will add around 25 per cent to the cost of a premium.
• Cover yourself against liability: If a friend is helping you with your DIY work, make sure you are covered against liability for any injuries that occur.
• Contact your insurance provider for extensive work: If you plan to add a new room to a house or improve the property with an extension then contact your home insurance provider ahead of time to ensure you're covered for any structural changes and the work that takes place.
• Adjust the rebuild value of your home: The top home improvement is a loft conversion, which typically adds more than £22,000 to the value of a home. More cosmetic improvements such as decking and flooring can also add to a property's value. Make sure you cover the new rebuild value of your home rather than its new retail value.
• Remember prevention is better than cure: If you're decorating a home it's a lot better to avoid an accident altogether than it is to make an expensive home insurance claim. To reduce the chances of an accident occurring, remove all items from a room before you begin any DIY work, and place sheets down over carpets and furniture in case of paint spillages.

Alex_Gregory

Essential Accessories of Moroccan Home Decor

One of the hottest trends when it comes to interior design of the home is Moroccan home decor. There are many reasons why Moroccan decor is so popular that include the designs, fabrics, beauty of the colors that blend so well together and the fact that this type of decorating can stand the test of time.

In addition to that, Moroccan design can blend well with other types of decor in your home. Whether you have a traditional design or a modern home, you can mix and match - making the design more eclectic when you use the ethnic design of Moroccan home decor.

Moroccan Home decor Accessories

Moroccan Pottery: You will want to use Moroccan pottery in your home decor as it is not only just for adornment, but a big part of Moroccan culture. The pottery is still hand made and you can gets some pieces that are real works of original art. The pottery that is made from natural clay will add color as well as drama to your home and give you art pieces that can be the focal point of any table.

Moroccan Table Tops: You will also find that table tops are very intricate and designed well when it comes to Moroccan accessories. You can see the Mediterranean design in the table tops that are either carved by hand or laid with mosaic patterns that are made of glass or clay. The tables themselves are a focal point and many are a work of art unto themselves.

Moroccan Area Rugs: You really need to have an area rug in a room to make it feel more relaxed and warm. No home is really complete without this, even if you have wall to wall carpeting. But you do not have to be confined to using the Moroccan rugs only on the floor. Because these rugs are woven so artfully, they can also be used to hang on the wall in place of a painting. The rugs are woven and hand tied and make for great wall designs as well as floor designs.

Moroccan Mirrors: Mirrors are one way that you can make a smaller room look larger. You can use Moroccan mirrors that are made from bone or metal filigree frames. Using mirrors as a wall covering instead of paintings is less expensive, although the carved mirrors and those that are henna stained give most art a run for their money. You can add mirrors in any room of the house just as you would a picture or a painting. They look very well when you add sconces next to them to reflect light.

Moroccan Lighting: Do not forget lighting. Many people ignore this aspect of interior design, so do not forget to use lamps, lanterns, sconces and even chandeliers in your Moroccan home decor. The lampshades are often one of a kind and made from animal skin that has been stained and hand painted or tattooed with henna. Get the same type of lighting throughout the house that will be functional as well as offer beauty.

Moroccan Room Dividers: You can use room dividers in many different ways to add drama to your rooms as well as section them for privacy by using screening you can create space and make a room more inviting as well as more functional. For even more dramatic flair, add lanterns from the screens or star lamps. If you have a home office in the main living area of the home, the room dividers are a perfect way to section off this space.

There is so much that you can do when it comes to creating a home that embraces Moroccan home decor. These are just a few ideas. Once you begin adding this Mediterranean design to your home, you will naturally start gravitating towards lighting, rugs, furniture and accessories that have the Moroccan design. Although Moroccan home decor is hardly new, its appeal has managed to stand the test of time.

Seomul Evans

A Cabin Theme for Your Home Decorating Needs

When it comes to home decorating there is one thing that must be said-people seem to long for the simple life and cabin living. Of all the styles of decorating and décor this is one that seems to be repeated most often but in different ways. Seriously there are all kinds of 'cabin' décor websites, magazines, brochures, books, and how to videos all over the place than probably any other style of decorating.

One reason for the phenomenal popularity of this particular type of home decorating style probably has a little bit to do with the simplicity of it. There are no hard and fast rules, there aren't fancy faux finishes and textured painting that needs to be done in order to complete the look and there aren't overly complicated rules for what is and isn't acceptable. From the bear budget to the champagne and caviar crowd there is some sort of décor available that will suit not only the home decorating needs but also the need for quality as well.

Another thing that many find appealing about a cabin themed home decorating plan is that it simply exudes warmth year round. From the dark colors to the flannel materials and the soft homespun simplicity of the design many find it simply irresistible. One thing that is obvious in this style of decorating is that it appeals to those who love home and hearth and warmth and good will far more than modern touches and design elements. This is not a hard plastic sort of design style and it shouldn't endeavor to become one as the two styles are almost systematically opposed to one another.

If you want the warmth of a Montana cabin in your home every day of the year this is one great way to do it. Bring the bears, the moose, and all the furry forest friends to frolic in your living room, on your light fixtures, and in your dreams as you fall into restful sleep each night. From the bedroom to the bathroom and the kitchen in between the cabin style of home decorating is one that is making great waves in the market place.

You will find many stores online and locally that cater to the cabin loving audience for hardware, knick-knacks, and what knots galore. The thing to remember is that the design essence isn't the little touches you add along the way, it's the warmth of wood, fire, leather, and wrought iron. These are the materials that will establish the cabin appeal more quickly than any of the little touches you can add along the way. Drywall and plaster simply cannot carry the look. Knotty pine or some other rich style of wood is the best option for walls when pulling off a cabin home appeal.

More importantly than anything though is the need to include a little bit of yourself in the design. Do not hesitate to carve your initials with a heart into the wood of your walls. It is one more thing that will be not only endearing but also appropriate to the home and the atmosphere. There is a type of innocence about a cabin style home and the little touches such as that will leave a lasting impression.

Andri Irawan

How To Choose Your Home Decorating Fabric

If you're decorating your home, it's important that you find the right home decorating fabric. Whether you're going modern, Victorian, or classic, the theme of your home decorating

will be influenced by the type of fabric you choose. If you already know what particular theme you want, do a little research online to decide which fabric will fit best. You can also choose to look at home decorating magazines or books.

For example, if you use a Victorian theme, remember that this type of theme is both feminine and quite ornate. Therefore, the home decorating fabric you choose will be brocade, velvet, or other "heavy" and rich materials. For accessories, you can choose ribbons and bows, beads and lace for trim.

If you choose to go with a modern theme, you'll want vibrant and bold colors in your home decorating fabric. Usually, when you go with a modern theme, the rooms are big and spacious and the concept is "open." This is meant to draw your attention to the room's details, including the fabrics used. The walls are usually done in light or cool colors.

Another popular home decorating theme is Oriental. With this, use elephants, Chinese dragons, screens and fans. This makes the room visually interesting and unique. The colors used are rich red, coral, jade and ivory. The Oriental theme usually uses silk as its fabric, and the rich colors stand boldly against the dark woods recommended for Oriental furniture.

For a more subdued "country" theme, choose light-colored woods, crisp fabrics such as linen, and light colors, perhaps accented here and there with dashes of dark red or blue throw pillows, for example. You can also choose sturdy knotty pine and rough tweed and denim fabrics for a more rustic look.

When you use home decorating fabric, you are putting icing on the cake, basically. The furniture you add complements the colors you use. In addition, the window treatments you'll use also fit within the theme, using these same colors.

Home decorating fabrics can be found in many places. Cushions, slipcovers and curtains can be bought premade at department stores or online. Many stores or web sites also specialize in home decor and can help you with this process. If you are skilled in sewing and wish to make your own materials, it's probably best that you go to a local fabric store so that you can see the fabrics you want to choose firsthand. Store staff will also be able to advise you on patterns, threads, and accessories such as buttons, ribbons and bows. If you are considering a particular color scheme, staff will also be able to help you choose fabrics in the right coordinating and contrasting materials and colors.

Whether you choose ready-made materials or are skilled at making your own, the right fabrics can make your home decorating project a success, so that you both have fun during the process and are pleased with the end result.

Gaetane Ross

Finding Home Decorating Ideas?

Do you need a simple and fun decorating style to use in your home? If that is so, you need first to gain some decorating idea on what is home decorating all about. Home decorating or designing has nothing to do with gender when you want to practice it- all of us desire to have a well-decorated home.

Working on home design can be on two major classification- the interior design and the exterior design. Interior, of course, refers to all design tasks done inside and for indoor usage. These include furnishing design, wall, floor, ceiling designs, etc. Exterior design can include gardening and landscaping, and other related tasks. Making a home design can not just be a good hobby, it is a potential hobby to make money. If you are good enough on this, you can make it as an additional source of income. You can start by providing service for your friends who need such a service.

We as today's modern home owner today enjoy a great deal of joy and freedom when it comes to how we design the interiors of our homes and we continue to buy and read a great deal of material on home design, interior decorating and the many related topics that there are in existence. The philosophy of home design is very much in line with a postmodern world view where rules and regulations are thrown out the window in favor of an almost anything may go approach.

We all love our homes and the amount of money that we spend on them accounts for a large part of the overall money spent in the economy. Our bathrooms has evolved as a part of home decorating over the past decades from a strictly useful and functional room to one that is similar to a spa. And just because there aren't thousands of dollars available for decorating doesn't mean that a bath can't be unique, dramatic and thoroughly satisfying. The amount of money spent on the place where we now luxuriate in water is growing in popularity as time goes by.

We as today's modern home owners enjoy a great deal of joy and freedom when it comes to how we design the interiors of our homes and we continue to buy and read a great deal of material on home design, interior decorating and the many related topics that there are in existence. The philosophy of home design is very much in line with a postmodern world view where rules and regulations are thrown out the window in favor of an almost anything may go approach.

Bercle George

Asian Inspired Home Decorating

There are very few themes for decorating a home that capture the imagination quite like an Asian inspired theme. There are many reasons for this one of which is the rich colors, fabrics, and textures that are the hallmark of these themes. There is a simplistic elegance about Asian décor that is almost impossible to imitate in other methods. It is simply put, stunning to walk into a room or a home that has been decorated in an Asian inspired motif.

This is not one of the lesser styles of décor when it comes to price. This elegance comes at a rather high price for the average consumer. However, the sparseness of this home decorating style make it possible when other styles with this sort of price tag would not be possible. One of the most important things to remember when attempting to bring an Asian style of décor into your home is the heavy reliance upon color and texture.

Dining rooms are particularly stunning when decorated in an Asian style. In this situation not only can the implements added to the room serve to improve and enhance the décor but also the placemats on the table can serve as an important tool in establishing the theme of this supremely elegant room. Chopsticks and dishes, particularly tea servings are other great enhancements to an Asian dining room. This is a room that many families will enjoy dining in.

It is recommended that because of the expense involved in many Asian themed home decorating styles that only one or two rooms in the home should be created based upon an Asian theme. This will keep the costs down as well as making those rooms focal points within the home rather than having the splendor lost among the excess.

If you are having a rough time narrowing down the two rooms, the bathroom also makes an excellent room in which to incorporate an Asian inspired theme. This is a room in which people go to relax and wash away the worries and stress of their days. For this reason, it makes perfect sense that some of the more tranquil and relaxing design accents of an Asian décor would be appropriate. Candles, figurines, calligraphy (waterproof of course), and Asian artwork make excellent touches for a bathroom, as do the more tranquil colors of some Asian inspired rooms. Fountains can be added to the room for an added taste of relaxation. Be sure that there is plenty of storage space as clean lines and an uncluttered surface are also important for the overall peaceful affect you should be hoping to achieve.

If either the dining room or bath or unappealing to your home decorating desires for an Asian theme you may want to take the theme into your bedroom. There are very few more romantic themes to incorporate into a bedroom than an Asian theme. You can use fabrics to create a very romantic atmosphere, rice paper window coverings to protect those inside from prying eyes, and candles throughout the room to finish off the creation. Furnishings in this room should be sparse and uncluttered. And Asian screens can be used in order to 'section off' the room or hide the piles of laundry or cluttered areas that you wish not to be detract from the overall romance of the room. Fans make a lovely decoration for the walls in a bedroom as does Oriental art or framed calligraphy in the words of love. Use wall sconces and indirect lighting rather than harsh, glaring overhead lights.

An Asian theme can be one of the most beautiful in the realm of home decorating if you are truly willing to invest the time and money it takes to do this theme properly. It can also be one of the most gaudy if you choose cheap and tacky decorations rather than quality accessories. If you choose to incorporate this theme into your home I hope you will keep that in mind while you are shopping.

Andri Irawan