So often we stare at scenes of beautiful, tropical  islands in books or online and dream when we’ll have an opportunity to escape to paradise. But we can, all we need to do is add a little tropical style to our home decor!

From all over the world, tropical destinations lure us to visit, from exotic Thailand and Fiji to our own state of Hawaii. Ultimate relaxation can be found where the palm trees meet the white sand and the beautiful blue ocean is steps away.  

For those who are landlocked, miles away from the ocean, or in between island vacations, add that touch of paradise to your interiors with tropical touches inspired by the shapes and textures found in nature by the sea.

Light fixtures and ceiling fans are always functional, yet more beautiful when they incorporate tropical elements or materials in their design. Flank a mirror or artwork with the Regina Andrew Coral Modern White Sconce or introduce a chic white palm design with the Casa VIeja Palm Leaf Ceiling Fan. The Regina Andrew Silver Coral Lamp adds a sophisticated silver sheen to a tropical coral motif. Introduce a dash of color with the Stacy Garcia Coral Seafan Flush Ceiling Light. The Varaluz Banana Leaf Sconce is a cheeky addition to any wall; or go casual yet elegant with the Currey & Co. Seaward White Sand Chandelier.

Texture is prevalent in the tropics, think of the bamboo branches and coconut tree trunks that grow abundantly in those climates. Repeat those textural finishes with a decorative framed mirror to reflect in a bathroom or bounce light around a living room or bedroom.

Enhance any interior from contemporary to cottage with framed mirrors created of woven or organic materials. Consider the Bamboo Natural Wall Mirror or Currey & Co. Oyster Shell Mirror for dramatic impact in a bedroom or bathroom; the Cooper Classics Coconut Stick Round Wall Mirror and Jamie Young Rectangle Rope Wall Mirror are alternative options that guarantee desirable texture against a painted or wallpapered wall.

Achieve a tropical look with plants and home accessories that bring the feel of the tropics indoors with large leaf palms and banana leaf plants or smaller colorful orchids stems. Rich wood combined with bamboo brass and blue and white accents completes the island look.

Decorative objects that mimic the element of the sea add a tropical touch such as the Uttermost Gloss White Coral Bowls and Palm Flower 1 and Palm Flower 2 Giclee Wall Prints. If you don’t want to water the real thing, substitute an Areca Palm in Decorative Planter. Faux bamboo is always chic, pull this Antique Brass Bamboo Side Table up next to a sofa or bed for a a stylish tropical accent. Blue and white chinoiserie porcelain accents such as the Port Chow Blue Accent Table add an exotic feel to any space.

Achieve that laid-back island feel by introducing accent reminiscent of paradise into your home’s decor with woven textures like wicker and rattan and island inspired shapes from shells to coral to palm fronds. Combine these elements with an inspired palette of lush greens, soothing blues, and pops of color inspired by island flowers and you’ll be well on your way to adding that touch of tropical at home.  

Image credits: Dana Small via House of Turquoise, Annie Schlechter, Cote de Texas

The masculine bath can be achieved with ease and be enjoyed by men and women alike. Savvy Home Blog had some fantastic images that capture the essence of this look and offer a glimpse into an aesthetic that works in both traditional and contemporary homes. At the end of the day all bathrooms need to be functional, however the masculine bath offers a unique mixture of warmer tones and rich finishes.

Naturally every bathroom needs proper lighting. The masculine bathroom should have stylish wall lights and bright overhead lights for grooming and the all-important shave. No man wants to walk out the door in the morning with little nicks and toilet paper bits stuck to their neck! If you have good overall lighting, try placing darker colored shades to sconces to infuse the space with a touch of James Bond mystery.

It’s also key to have a great framed mirror. Try using a leather framed mirror or handsome wood version in deep walnut or burl wood. I will admit it, men love to read in the loo, so the addition of small benches or tables are a welcome relief for that stack of magazines, papers or books. Is the secret out? 

1. The Jamie Young Leather Strap Round Wall Mirror captures the rugged look of western decor.

2. Instead of the standard flush mount light why not try the Bradford Oiled Bronze Pendant.

3. Robert Abbey Porter Metal Shade Wall Sconce echoes style from the Great Gatsby.

4. The dark finish and industrial lines of the Bruno Collection Scissor Arm Pharmacy Plug-In Wall Light are a great alternative to traditional sconces.

5. The Oxenberg Gray Linen Burlap X Stool would be perfect for a stack of crisp white towels.

6. Classic accessories like shaving mugs and candles would look great on the Philipus Gilded Gold Round Accent Table.

Photos: Savvy Home Blog.

It's that time again, time for our annual lighting sale where you can outfit your home in style with discounted lighting fixtures and home decor...

Check out some of the featured products below, head over to the full sale brochure, or just start shopping the sale!

This handsome, swing arm wall light is on sale and features an adjustable design that allows you to control the light for your needs, whether they be bedside or at your favorite reading corner.

Every home should have a stylish wall mirror, not out of vanity but rather interior design style. Upgrade every room in  your home and help them look larger with designer wall mirrors.

This handsome wood wall clock will let you know the time of day, and also stand out with a faux wood grain face and bold black numbers.

This stylish silver and gold leaves wall art will brings a bit of the outdoors in. Because of the delicate construction methods of this beautiful piece, no two are exactly alike!

Image: Lamps Plus

It’s a perfect time to upgrade your exterior lights to LED landscape lighting. As the Summer months rapidly approach you may want to take stock of how your home looks from the outside.

DIY Network had some inspiring pictures of landscape lighting and ways to make your exterior stylish, safe and secure. Remember, new exterior lighting is not only about beautifying, but about keeping unwanted guests at bay.

LED pathway lights are critical to keep walkways safe and easy to find. Whether your garden is traditional or contemporary Lamps Plus has a variety of LED Landscape lighting kits that offer a grouping of lights which allow you to outfit a length of outdoor lighting.

A compliment to path lighting are up-lit trees. Just as you layer lights in your home, layering lights in your yard is important to making the most of your horticultural hard work.

1. Traditional lights like the Large Mushroom Low Voltage Bronze LED Landscape Path Light are timeless and work in any style landscape.

2. The Hinkley Afterhours Bronze 30 Degree LED Landscape Light is perfect for uplighting trees and decorative hedges.

Another place where LED landscape lights can have a major affect is on decks and at outdoor kitchens and BBQ stations. Don’t neglect lighting stairs on terraces and decks which ensure your guests stay safe and don’t tumble with plates of food. I love the clean lines of these lights!

3. The Hinley Matte White 12 Volt LED Deck Light would be super chic on a modern terrace.

4. Keeping it simple and on the “down low” means installing the Hinkley Atlantis-L 12 Volt Bronze LED Landscape Light.

I suppose your exterior lights could be utilitarian but with so many options today, why be boring with your bushes?

5. Like the most sophisticated interior light, the WAC LEDme® White Step Light will add serious style in your exterior design scheme.

Photo credits: DIY Network

When I think of reclaimed wood I think Green and I think DIY.  Repurposing used materials is a fantastic way to keep our planet healthy. Also, utilizing reclaimed wood to add texture to your walls in a great DIY project for the hands-on readers out there. 

Reclaimed wood can take on a range of styles from chic to eclectic to rustic, yet no matter what look you're going for it definitely serves up a serious texture and design punch.

The two images above from Home on the Range and Brit+Co feature reclaimed wood walls that are bold, knotty and rustic.  This type of installation works to add warmth and texture to a space, and can function in both more vintage styles as well as a more modern, clean look. If you don't want to commit to an entire wall try punctuating an accent wall or a fireplace.

This reclaimed wood wall is chic, modern and high end. Staining the wood to have a monochromatic tone is one way to modernize this look, while the knots in the planks serve to maintain the rustic, natural appeal.  This stunning dining room from Analog Dialog perfectly demonstrates how to make your reclaimed wood wall look classic, classy and expensive.

This amazing bedroom image from Brit+Co features a partial reclaimed wood wall that serves multiple purposes. This beautifully built piece adds texture while acting as part night stand, part storage and part lighting vessel.  Adding a faux 'crown moulding' to the top of this wood wall gives way for electrical components to be wired throughout and allows for beautiful mini pendant lights.

This eclectic, mid-century living room is small, so the addition of a funky and eclectic reclaimed wood wall was added as a statement. Design Vote featured this image that beautifully mixes minimalist mid-century furniture with painted reclaimed planks with mounted, planted succulents.

What style of reclaimed wood wall do you like the best? 

Image credits:Home on the Range, Brit+Co, Analog Dialog, Design Vote

Summer... Besides making me crave a margarita in a salt-rimmed glass, I also crave being outside. I can while away the hours on my vintage glider with my Kindle in one hand and a lemonade (or that margarita) in the other.

Here are my tips on creating your own eclectic outdoor space.

Mix Old and New

My patio is a mix of pieces I’ve collected through the years. From a wrought iron dining set to a cushioned and comfy seating area to a vintage metal glider, each piece is unique yet looks great together.

Get Creative

Rest your drink on an old milk jug or a mid century marble topped table. I love the look of ceramic garden stools as little side tables too.

Think Outside the Pot

Get creative with your planters. I love filling old galvanized mop buckets with cascading petunias and vibrant red geraniums look right at home in an old wooden toolbox. The real conversation piece is my dresser planter!

Accessorize

A vintage ice bucket, colorful candle holders or a giant seashell are all perfect for the patio and add color and personality.

Spread Out

Don’t confine your outdoor furniture to the patio or deck. Create little rooms in your yard by setting up a seating area in the grass.  

Enjoy the sunshine and a margarita or two in your outdoor space.

Image credits: Eclectically Vintage

When I was younger I remember my mother decorating with duck baskets.

Yep.

I said duck.

Old-fashioned baskets with polka dot ribbon and an entire flock of ducks stenciled across the lids.

I rolled my eyes at those baskets and the coordinating wallpaper and right then and there I promised myself when I grew up.....

.....my house would be completely duck-basket free.

And now it's 2014 and I have a basket in every room.

I use them for storage and organizing and decorating and filing and stacking.....

......but I managed to leave those ducks back in 1997. 

Here's some fun ideas on decorating with baskets.

1,  Think storage

Baskets are the perfect dual-purpose accessory.

Use them on or under a storage bench or bookshelf in a laundry room or mudroom, as in this storage space from Country Living.

You can store linens or laundry supplies or towels or fabric scraps.

Here's an easy tip to make your baskets stand out: Stencil the baskets with labels or numbers for a vintage look.

2.  Organize with style

Baskets are also the perfect accessory for a bathroom, like this bright and cheery space from Better Homes and Gardens.

Place next to a bathroom vanity or cabinet to store hair care supplies and hand towels.

Line baskets with vintage linens or monogrammed fabric for the perfect personalized accessories.

3.  Decorate with flair

Use baskets on or under a coffee table and fill with vintage finds as in this beautiful vignette from Bolig Pluss.

Stacks of books or magazines topped off with a stack of antique metal weights blend perfectly with the texture of a vintage basket.

You can also add artwork or galvanized metal pieces to create a display with simplistic beauty.

4.  Look up

Baskets are also the perfect accessory to tuck into those underused spaces on top of cabinets, as in this classic kitchen featured in Better Homes and Gardens.

Store seldom used appliances or extra serving dishes or tableware out of reach.

Lastly, add a stamped tag to the basket for a simple and stylish addition.

Baskets are where it's at.

They have endless uses including storage and organizing and decorating and filing and stacking and so much more.

Who knew?

Thanks for the inspiration....mom. 

Photo credits: Thistlewood Farms, Country Living, Better Homes and Gardens, Bolig Pluss, Better Homes and Gardens

Mother's Day is this weekend! This year, instead of battling the restaurant crowds for Mother's Day brunch, why not entertain at home and set a stylish, thoughtful table for mom?

Style Me Pretty keeps things fresh with dinnerware that feels plucked from the garden, while a dining vignette from Lamps Plus reminds us that sometimes an outdoor setting is all you need to make an occasion memorable. And don't forget the power of pattern! Striped placemats make a simple setting special in this photo from Stylizimo. 

Even if you're just dining with mom at the kitchen counter, like in this image from Lamps Plus, a few elegant touches can elevate the every day. Follow Studio shows how simple glassware has major impact when grouped together and filled with spring branches, while Dreamy Whites illustrates how a variety of blossoms can dress up the most basic white tableware.

But the most important part of any Mother's Day Brunch? Shower mom with plenty of love!

1. Pile this tiered cookie stand high with breakfast pastries and fresh fruit.

2. Add color and pattern to your table setting with a floral dinnerware set.

3. Striped decorative pillows on your dining chairs will provide a crisp accent as well as added comfort. 

4. An arrangement of faux hydrangeas in a glazed pot brings a lively touch to any setting without the hassle.

5. A white ceramic pitcher can do double duty either dispensing orange juice or holding a bright bouquet.

Image credits: Style Me Pretty, Lamps Plus, Giac1061, Stylizimo, Lamps Plus, Follow Studio, Dreamy Whites

Spring has sprung, and with that comes plenty of work in the garden. If you’ve got your planting under control, consider enhancing your patio with an outdoor fountain.

Outdoor water features add automatic ambiance; that trickling sound is magical. Whether you have a small grassy enclave, a fenced roof deck, or concrete a yard, there’s a garden fountain that fits with your outdoor aesthetic.

Trough Fountain

In this backyard remodel, Walnut Creek, California firm Huettl Landscape Architecture created a grassy plot on the edge of a thicket, beyond the patio of the pool. The concrete retaining wall serves to separate the yard from the wooded area, while transitioning through a grade change. In addition, it’s where five spigots are mounted, which empty into a dark gray trough.

This sleek trough fountain is a perfect blend of modern meets rustic in style. The mix of materials, including the sleek wood slats hovering above the bluestone, reinforce the look. When you can’t accommodate a built-in solution, you could consider the square-shaped Belgium Block Fountain. The Chadwick Contemporary Waterfall Fountain offers a trough-like design; you could even obscure its upper portion with plantings.

Zen Garden

Nadia Elgrably, of Manhattan Beach, California firm Nadia Designs, collaborated with the architect and builder on this four-level, hillside home with views of the Pacific Ocean. Floating stairs connect the indoor and outdoor living and entertaining spaces.

Near the step stone entrance path to the front door, sits this concrete koi pond, complete with lily pads and Buddha statue. Hardy green plantings look not to require too much fuss. Try the Meditating Aged Bronze Buddha Fountain or Temple Pagoda Lighted Fountain in your own garden for an Asian infusion.

Cottage Charm

LA-based landscape designer Naomi Sanders eponymous landscape design firm worked with architect Noel Williams on this project in an urban residential neighborhood. It’s meant to be a respite from city life and draws inspiration from around the globe.

This view is of the inner courtyard, which has a rather charming, almost cottage-like feel, with native plantings. The fountain was purchased, rather than custom designed, and has a slight atmospheric gurgle. For a round fountain in a compact space, try the Magma Natural Rock Fountain, solo, as a pair, or in triplicate, and for a raised rounded shape, try the mushroom-like Birds of a Feather Cast Stone Fountain.

Urban Roof Garden

This contemporary Manhattan roof garden, complete with outdoor shower, was designed by local firm Pulltab Design. The sleek layout incorporates both Japanese elements, like the slatted bench on pebbles, as well as industrial materials, such as the rusted metal perforated gate and basin.

A rough-hewn block of oak with stainless steel basin and spout adds an of-the-moment touch. The Asian Garden Tiered Fountain offers a spouts and spills effect, as does the Tree Trunk and Rocks, albeit in a woodsy design.

Wall of Water

Australian firm Urban Exotic Landscape Architects designed this patio, incorporating what looks to be a Corten steel wall fountain, set against a darker wall with planters. Water washes down its entirety, and it’s uplit for drama. The space uses a full mix of materials, including steel, wood decking, wood fencing, pebbles, blue-hued pavers, and a funky concrete block wall.

If you have a walled patio, go vertical with the Kenroy Home Brook Water Fountain. The textured gray stone slabs looks great surrounded by greenery.

Here are a few more designs to get the inspiration flowing:

1. Magma Natural Rock Fountain 2. Tree Trunk and Rocks 3. Kenroy Home Brook Water Fountain 4. Chadwick Contemporary Waterfall Fountain 5. Meditating Aged Bronze Buddha Fountain 6. Temple Pagoda Lighted Fountain 7. Belgium Block Fountain 8. Birds of a Feather Cast Stone Fountain 9. Asian Garden Tiered Fountain

Image credits: Huettl Design, Nadia Designs, Naomi Sanders, Pulltab Design, Urban Exotic

Outdoor real-estate is usually hard to come by if you're in a big city and likely expensive otherwise. Potted plants are a fantastic way to add some greenery to your home while simultaneously injecting style and function.

If the above image from Bread and Olives doesn't make you want to add some potted plants to your home decor, I don't know what will. Whether indoors in front of a window or outdoors on a small balcony or patio, check out some beautiful installations that will inspire you to decorate with stylish planters.  

The images above from Real Simple show just how versatile potted plants can be. From traditional to modern, ceramic to terra-cotta, you can achieve just about any look you set out to. Try clustering succulents together in an urn style Ornate Gray Clay Fibre Outdoor Planter. This will add pops of color and modernity to a traditional look.  

Add a pop of color to your space with some Ceramic Paisley Green Planters that not only add character but a touch of glossy green looks lovely alongside natural foliage.

For a streamlined, classic look group pots together that are all the same color or material. The Gunmetal Square Outdoor Planters are monochromatic and modern without being fussy.

Classic flowers and traditional pots go together like peanut butter and jelly. Try mixing and matching with high gloss pots mounted vertically, or take a traditional pot like the Filigree Ivory Ceramic Pot and fill it with a brightly colored flower.

Image sources:Bread & Olives, Real Simple

We have two messages for you today.....

1. HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!!

2. Call your Mom!

Image: Keep Calm-O-Matic

Bathroom vanity lights can be as beautiful as they are functional. We all know that without bathroom lights we would probably look less than perfect, have smeared makeup and many unwanted hairs. Lonny Magazine had some wonderful images of bathroom vanities and extraordinary lighting so that our bathrooms can look as good as we do.

In a world where bathroom remodeling has become commonplace, having the right bathroom vanity lights can make or break the look of your loo.

The contemporary bathroom can be more daring when it comes to lighting. Linear and sleek tube lights can fit into small spaces and still create the right amount of light. I love the way modern bathrooms tuck lights behind mirrors and medicine chests.

Another dramatic look would be to have under counter lights on the underside of the vanity to create a warm glow on the floor not to mention a subtle night light.

1. The Midvale Bronze ENERGY STAR® Bath Wall Light packs much light into a little space.

2. I love the industrial textures of the Murray Feiss Mila Collection Steel Wall Sconce.

3. The George Kovacs Two Light Contemporary Wall Sconce has a modern take on Art Deco lights from the past.

Tradition in the Bathroom

Traditional bathrooms allow for major creativity when it comes to lighting. From crystal drops and fanciful shades to mirror and etched metalwork, classic bathroom vanity lights are truly the jewelry on your bathroom walls.

I always stress that if you choose ornate fixtures, make sure you understand the time commitment to cleaning crystal and make sure the shades are appropriate for a wet environment.

4. Hollywood glamour is still alive with the Crystorama Hampton Silver Shade Wall Sconce.

5. Elegance with a punch of pizzazz is how I define the Textured Fabric Shade Chrome Wall Sconce.

6. The regal Corbett Heart Throb 2-Light Polished Nickel Wall Sconce would look divine in a powder room or larger master bath.

Photo credits: Lonny

I don't know about you, but with the change of each season, I want to clean everything out, start fresh and update for Spring. Not only with my closets and junk drawers, but also with the decor and feel of my home.

An easy way to freshen up around your house each season is by switching out the accessories or smaller items that are easier to store or reuse in other areas in your home when you feel the itch to move things around again.

I've found 10 great items for you to quickly update your decor with for spring.

A super easy and affordable way is by getting a few new vases and of course popping in some of your favorite flowers. I'm loving these turquoise cloud vases. Add yellow flowers and you've got a great pop of color for spring.

Changing out wall decor is always an option, and I'm loving this mirror and wood panel. It's modern and functional at the same time.

Pillows are also an easy option, this Baja Punch Pillow works for spring and fall!

A funky wall sculpture is also a great way to mix things up — use this large clive wall ornament inside or outside!

Adding a lantern with a candle inside gives off a New England and nautical feel to any coffee table.

A bright tray is an easy way to add color and something useful to your home.

Ever think about switching out the mirror in your powder room? Update it with something that makes a statement like silver teardrop mirror.

Plants always add a fresh spring feel to your home and succulents are very on-trend right now.

How is that area rug looking? Maybe it's time you get a little more daring with a big pattern like this Kaleen Nomad wool rug.

And last but not least, switch out that side table for something fun and reflective like this chrome ceramic accent table.

Image credit: Lamps Plus

The days are getting longer and the ability to entertain outdoors into the later hours of the day is what everyone enjoys about Summer entertaining, right? There is something wonderful about having friends and family over to enjoy music, great food and of course the ambiance of the night air!

Although one aspect of evening Summer entertaining that is often forgotten is outdoor lighting. Illuminating the exterior of your home is essential for safety, security and for your guests to enjoy a lovely evening.

Take a look at these simple ways to use outdoor lighting fixtures to brighten your home this summer.

Creating a safe outdoor evening home with lighting:

When entertaining outdoors this Summer consider areas that have low visibility and shadowed areas that could be unsafe for people to walk. Lighting fixtures come in an array of different styles and formats for your outdoor home.

Walkway or path lighting fixtures are perfect for sidewalks, pathways and around landscaping beds. Consider using wall sconces against the exterior walls of your home to give a clear pathway for guests to see ahead of them and judge where they are walking to and from your home.

Illuminate your entrance beautifully:

Make a statement in your outdoor entry or patio area with a hanging light fixture like this one below. This lighting comes in the Mossoro collection with matching fixtures throughout your outdoor home, such as wall sconces, pendant lighting and more. The tapered lantern style gives an old-world appeal to your outdoor home. Hand-applied Mossoro walnut finish features silver highlights that works beautifully with an array of architectural home styles.

Mossoro 19” High Outdoor/Indoor Hanging Light

Giving the appearance of security is essential:

Whether you are entertaining a large neighborhood group of friends or they all have gone home, your outdoor home in the evening hours should always look “lived-in”.

This means that your outdoor landscaping should be illuminated as well as front patio and entryway should look inviting. Ensure your home is not a prey for security issues like intruders or stray animals by keeping around the perimeter of your home well lit. Outdoor lighting such as porch lights, wall lights, and motion/security lights can help you feel confident your home is safe.

Enjoying guests with lifestyle lighting that fits the occasion:

When entertaining enjoy your activities and conversation until the late hours of the evening with lanterns on tables, fun tikki torches around the pool and string lighting over your outdoor dining area. For permanent lighting solutions look to overhead ambient lighting fixtures in summer kitchen canopies or affixed to the side of your home in the form of wall sconces. Determine how much light is needed for your activities and choose lighting that will enable guests to enjoy a safe, secure and memorable evening at your home!

Image credits:Sennikoff Architects, Chelsea Construction Corp

As much as I’m a fan of modern homes, I’m starting to love modern country interiors. There is something appealing about a fresh take on a nod to the past.

The Zhush always has beautiful pictures and I found great examples of this new design aesthetic there. So much in creating this look is about the use of neutral and clean colors as well as interesting textures in various combinations.

What is so amazing is that you can create this look in both contemporary or traditional homes.

One design element that is constant throughout modern country design is simple colors like white, cream and gray. These colors are crisp and a perfect backdrop to simple wood furniture, stylish table lamps with linen shades and modern canvas art. Pairing antiques with modern art is one of the key ways to achieve modern country.

How great is that inky print juxtaposed with the turned leg table?  Remember, this form of country design does not encourage the use of barn reds, rooster wallpaper or country kitsch, rather, an understated simplicity.

I’m mad for the kitchen in this montage. It’s super modern but the steel beams remind me of a totally updated version of rough hewn wood beams found in an old homestead.

Incorporating dining or kitchen pendant lights in zinc are a perfect way to introduce interesting texture and are in keeping with a modern feeling material that also has an instant patina. Patterned rugs, pillows and blankets round out this look, add softness and some visual interest to the otherwise monochromatic scheme.

1. The Surya Plum Bird Design Decorative Pillow adds just enough graphic interest to make a room sing.

2. Kitchen islands that feature the Franklin Park Bronze White Glass Pendant Light will instantly look “of the moment.”

3. A touch of modern metals like the Arteriors Home Evan Distressed Zinc Entry Table look fantastic on distressed wood floors.

4. I chose the Zuo Twin Peaks Distressed Wood Bar Stool to show how two materials, one old school, the other industrial, can work harmoniously.

5. Like it was carved from old timbers but shaped in a modern style, the Manitoga Wood Finish Cog Table Lamp is great for living rooms or on bedside tables.

Photo credits: The Zhush

Whether you are into soaking up the sun during the day, or hanging under the stars at night, your backyard is a vital component to the warmer days of summer. Making some small changes to your outdoor decor can drastically change your space and create a revitalized and rejuvenated area ripe for the long days and endless nights.

Here we give you some easy updates to your outdoor decor with images from Domaine Home that you won't want to miss.

Outdoor Drapery

Adding a few panels of outdoor drapery can make your outdoor seating area go from bland to bling. It frames any area and makes the space feel special and important. With so many fantastic outdoor fabrics these days it's easy to find a style and color that suits your style.

Fancy Feature Lighting

Don't settle for boring and outdated when gorgeous outdoor pendants and sconces like these above exist. If you have an outdoor veranda, give yourself the chance to enjoy it into the night by installing hardwired lighting.

There are also stylish LED fixtures for outdoor use that any home owner would be proud to show off. Adding one or two permanent light fixtures will give your space a stylish, chic updated feel.

Unconventional Lounging

Firstly, who doesn't wish they were in this image this very moment! Lounge furniture is beautiful and functional, but there is nothing like a breezy hammock to give your outdoors a cool punch.  

Hammocks always remind me of vacation, and what better way to add a little "vacation" escape to your own backyard? White with fringe or serape stripes, have fun with it, and then lie down and swing your worries away.

A Separate Oasis

If you are one of the lucky ones to have a large backyard or outdoor space, find an area where you can create a separate getaway. This dreamy oasis getaway is almost like a mirage amidst the lawn, where you can escape for a few minutes or a few hours...

The key to creating this oasis - full privacy! Grab some loungers, add some drapes or a cool cabana, mix up some sangria and enjoy.

Modern Stripes

Gone are the days of outdoor nautical pinstripes. Here are the days of the bold, chunky, striped outdoor cushions. Toss your outdated cushions and replace with black and white cushions that make a cool, modern statement.

Easy enough for you? What updates are you going to try out this summer?

Image credits:Domaine Home

Are you looking for an updated form of style and sophistication for your home? Or maybe you rent instead of own? There's a solution for all of you.... removable wall decals!

Stylish wall decals are perfect for adding personality to any room, whether you're upgrading your decor or making a child's room more fun.

Lamps Plus has a wide selection of pretty images like this sophisticated chandelier above and Chippendale style chair decal below.

It's all about adding a little creativity to your home with easy application.

These designs are created by an in-house artist and hand-crafted in California.

1. Square Bird Cage Black Wall Decal 2. Oval Bird Cage Black Wall Decal 3. Hexagon Bird Cage Black Wall Decal 4. Round Bird Cage Black Wall Decal

If you're looking for a whimsical style decal, these bird cage wall art pieces are perfect!

Images: Lamps Plus

Out with the heavy, dark and drab and in with light and bright. Summer is approaching and there’s no better time to update your home décor. 

Here are some of my favorite ways to make an impact for next to nothing:

Paint

Breathe new life into a tired room for only the cost of a gallon of paint. Not willing to commit? Try painting just one accent wall in a favorite hue or have fun with stripes or a stencil.

Lamp Shades

Replace a lamp shade to update the look of an entire room. Drum shades provide an instant update and come in tons of fun colors and patterns.

Windows

Store heavy drapes away in the warm weather months and replace with sheers, simple bamboo shades, or leave your windows bare.

Accessorize

Piles of throw pillows are one of my favorite ways to try out fun colors and patterns without the commitment of upholstering.

Art

Don’t get stuck in the rut of hanging a painting or photograph and never moving it again. Consider hanging a few gallery shelves so you can easily interchange wall art and family photos on a whim.

Antique

Just one unique vintage or antique piece can add sizzle to any room. Scour thrift shops and flea markets for a bargain like my vintage console table that I jazzed up in a vibrant shade of blue.

Lighting

You don’t have to be stuck with boring builder grade lighting. There are tons of stylish lighting choices for any budget and I love the look of capiz shell chandeliers all year round.

Rugs

The simple act of replacing worn out throw rugs can work wonders on brightening up any space.

Throw open those windows and let a cool breeze blow through to truly bring Summer indoors!

Photo credits: Eclectically Vintage, Tatertots and Jello, Vivid Hue Home, Free People, House Design Ideas, India Hicks via Caribbean Belle, Eclectically Vintage, The Lilypad Cottage, Four Generations One Roof

Yesterday I did some decorating for a graduation party so I'd like to share some ideas with you, since it is the season after all.

The party was fun and festive and full of color.....

.....and such a wonderful reason to celebrate.

We celebrated the ending of a chapter and celebrated the next step in the journey.

A brand new chapter.

A chapter that should be honored with festivities and laughter and joy.

So if you are celebrating graduation.....

.....here's a few ideas for planning a graduation party (starting with this fun row of patterned flags from Eddie Ross).

1.  Start Small

A graduation party doesn't always have to be large and overwhelming.

Sometimes the best celebrations are a small, intimate gathering for family and friends like this beautiful tablesetting from Architectural Digest.

Set an outdoor table with crisp linens and simple party fare and let the conversation be the centerpiece.

2.  Keep it Simple

On a porch or deck, place an outdoor rug and set a table close to the ground like this festive table setting from Better Homes and Gardens.

Then toss colorful pillows and throws to create a retreat right at home.

Next, ask guests to bring their favorite piece of advice for the graduate and take turns reading.

3.  Creative Displays

Make your party displays part of the fun.

Ask guest to bring a photograph or quote for the graduate and then create a hanging display like this one from Better Homes and Gardens.

After the party you can combine all the photos into an album for the perfect graduation gift.

Graduation is a time for celebration. It's a time to remember and look to the future.

And here's to the perfect party for the next chapter....

Photo credits: Eddie Ross,Architectural Digest,Better Homes and Gardens,Better Homes and Gardens

As the Summer nears and temperatures increase, a few simple changes around the house can make the difference between sweltering and weathering the summer in style. One of the quickest and easiest ways to update your space for summer is to install a ceiling fan.

Not only will it keep you cool all season long, the right fan can also make a strong aesthetic statement. Whether you're looking to complement a modern rustic kitchen like this one on BlissfulB, move the air throughout a warm urban loft as on Lamps Plus, or keep an outdoor patio cool as seen on Inspired by This.

There are countless ceiling fan options to augment your existing decor.

When selecting a ceiling fan, take into account the type and size of the space as well as the style of your decor. A ceiling with features such as ductwork (spotted on Mikroi Megaloi) might mean you need a fan that has a telescoping pole for safe height adjustment.

A tall loft like this one on My Lookbook calls for a high-powered fan to ensure thorough air circulation, whereas an office (like this one on Beach Brights) and a bedroom (via Lamps Plus) may require an extra quiet fan to allow for study or sleep.

Fortunately, there's no shortage of great-looking ceiling fans at Lamps Plus to suit your needs and keep you cool all summer long!

1. A slim, simple brushed steel ceiling fan fits easily into any style of space.

2. For a modern design effect, this white ceiling fan features an iconic light fixture.

3. Add layers of texture and interest with the maple blades of a wood ceiling fan.

4. Two blades and a spherical motor housing give this contemporary ceiling fan a space-aged vibe.

5. The Minka Concept II fan hugs the ceiling, making it perfect for tight spaces.

6. Canvas blades add to the airy sensibility of this brushed nickel ceiling fan.

Image credits: BlissfulB, Lamps Plus, Inspired by This, Mikroi Megaloi, My Lookbook, Beach Brights, Lamps Plus