Linen home furnishings are the most simple and elegant way to decorate. It’s like the whispering of design...understated, muted and timeless. Linen can cover your walls, windows and furniture so it’s one of the most useful and versatile fabrics around.

I love linen because it can be super modern if tightly fitted on furniture or traditional and romantic if gathered on a bedskirt or ottoman. Linen also doesn't discriminate by seasons. White linen is perfect in the summer, while a warmer taupe or brown linen looks just as chic besides a fire in a colder climate.

1. Zuo Dogpatch Beige Accent Chair

Slipcovered linen chairs have been around for quite some time, and for good reason. A linen covered chair can go anywhere and look divine. You can always jazz up linen with a patterned pillow or throw, but I say still stay neutral to maintain the calm. The classic Parsons chair in linen can go from dining to desk as well as kitchen to vanity.

2. Winema Down-Filled Taupe Linen Throw Pillow

Linen accessories can soften the hardest or most tired looking furniture. Hate you dining table? No worries, a linen tablecloth can cover that up and look beautiful at the same time. Adding linen pillows and throws an are an affordable luxury that infuses a room with soft texture and elegance.

3. Ceramic Sea Urchin White Table Lamp 4. Cream Chandelier Shade

Lighting can even benefit from linen. A simple bedside lamp can be elevated with the addition of a linen shade and even dining room chandeliers can cast a softer glow if the bulbs are covered by linen replacement shades.

5. Zuo Pacific Heights Beige Sofa

Linen sofas will look chic for a very long time. I love the look and it always reminds me of those serene Belgian interiors you see in magazines. One key thing to remember when it comes to linen home furnishings is that they can stain and do wrinkle. I don’t mind the wrinkles as that is the “look.” Stains, however, I mind. That said, keep the linen away from little kids and pets to ensure long life and high style.

Photos: Belgian Pearls.

There are two big excuses to break out some super chic red, white and blue decor this summer season: Memorial Day and the Fourth of July.  These two days have become a symbol for the classic American summer holiday party.  With the all American home embracing the design culture however, many design savvy people (like our readers) have learned how to incorporate new designs for the summer to accent these fun, patriotic colors.  Here are some great inspiration ideas for everything from a patriotic holiday party to a summer filled with red, white and blue decor.

Changes do not have to be drastic to re-design your space for summer.  Since much more time is spent outside, incorporating mood-setting outdoor lighting will definitely elevate your patio or backyard.  Small additions like chic outdoor accent pillows and comfy throw blankets in a red, white and blue color scheme also add a patriotic pop without over committing.  If you do wish to go big with this fun, summery color scheme, remember that mixing in pattern and texture is a good way to bring the bold colors without too much saturated color overload. 

If you are planning a Fourth of July soiree, I say go all the way with the design.  From plates, napkins and outdoor serveware to red, white and blue-themed desserts and drinks, you can really be as creative and thematic as you wish.  After all, this is a one night event planned around the most patriotic day of the year - your guests will only be delighted to see the efforts you put in to decorate all aspects of your get together.

However you incorporate red, white and blue into your summer decor, make sure to have fun with it. Start small and see where the inspiration takes you.  Happy summer, readers!

All Images: Pinterest

Coastal decor can encompass a lot of looks, from the kitschy - seashell animal figurines (no thank you) - to sparse minimalism, which can be altogether dreamy.

The palette tends toward blues, any shade will do, dipping over into greens and sometimes including yellow too (can't forget about the sun!). Red also makes an appearance, especially when paired with navy, as nothing says nautical like all-American red, white, and blue. As for pattern, geometrics play well, as do stripes, and actual coastal representations, like fish, coral, and ships, if done in moderation, ocean-inspired rooms tend to have plenty of texture too, calling on seagrass, sisal, ropes, and sand.

We've pulled together five living rooms with seaside schemes, unified in their tasteful restraint from going overboard with too much of a good thing. You'll find coastal themes in moderation, from model sailboats to sea creatures, in relaxed, elegant settings.

This is a traditional, distinctly American space, calling on Colonial era accents, like the brass nautical mirror and period sailboats. Crisp chevron drapes and a sisal rug keeps it from feeling stuffy. Interior image: House Beautiful.

Shopping guide: 1 Porthole 21 1/4" High Oval Wall Mirror 2 Sailboat Framed Art 3 Expedition Chestnut Faux Leather Storage Chest 4 Sung Collection Quito Jute Area Rug 5 Modern Chevron Marine Swoop Accent Chair 6 Eggshell Lattice Ceramic Garden Accent

This cheerful enclosed porch looks to be perched right on the beach. A nautical-inspired lantern hangs from the breadboard ceiling painted a watery blue. Splashes of color are worked in with bold stripes and the piping on the cushions of the rattan porch furniture. Interior image: Southern Living.

Shopping guide: 1 Casa Sierra Hanging Lantern 2 Tabs Bright Accent Pillow 3 Jamie Young Natural Jute Urn 4 Red Chenille Throw Blanket 5 Riviera Outdoor Sofa 6 Fishtail Fern with Black Metal Stand

Pale blue painted paneled walls paired with a sofa upholstered in white duck and casual white curtains on a stainless steel rod is a sure way to score a casual coastal decor feel. The sailboat clinches it. Interior image: via Completely Coastal.

Shopping guide: 1 Newport Sloop Replica-Model Sailboat 2 Natural Light Cordage Square Jute Table Lamp 3 Admiral Set of 3 Navy Throw Pillows 4 Rachel Classic Natural Slipcover Sofa 5 Loop Mohair Lake Blue Throw Blanket 6 Nautilus Fossil Shell Sculpture

This well-sized living room has ample seating, including a cozy armchair in blue ticking. Nautical-inspired lanterns hang from the beamed ceiling, while sturdy floor lamps and a colorful table lamp adds extra light for reading. Coral pillows and fish prints stamp it "beach." Interior image: Jupiter Riverfront Homes.

Shopping guide: 1 Arteriors Home Cassidy Coral Orange Porcelain Table Lamp 2 Pinebrook Round Accent Table 3 Blue and White Striped Kids Armchair 4 Coral Accent Pillow 5 Wrass and Rudd Set of Two Framed Fish Prints 6 Uttermost Set of 2 Gloss White Coral Bowls

This great room is obviously located in a beachy-locale, given the sea fans, coral, and hydrangeas, but rather than go with the expected baby blue or navy, the palette gets a little zing with a zestier sky blue. Interior image: Better Homes & Gardens.

Shopping guide: 1 Judith Edwards Designs Silver Sea Star 2 Natural Sea Fan with Base 3 Rivoli Porcelain Faux Bamboo Table Lamp 4 Turquoise Bonded Leather Parson Chair 5 Rattan Accent Storage Trunk 6. Caleb White Linen Arm Chair

Lately I've been obsessed with decorating with the trellis pattern.

I've always wanted a trellis.

A vintage trellis.....the kind I've only read about in English novels.

Layers of white wood entwined with tiny roses or colorful morning glory or graceful wisteria.

So this year I've planted a trellis with clematis and every time I see it....my heart smiles.

If you love trellises like me....why keep them limited to the outdoors?

Trellises are everywhere in home decor this season.

Just take a look!

1. Oil rubbed bronze trellis light with a beautiful Moroccan styled-frame.

2. An eye-catching trellis design in a terracotta rug from the Courtyard Collection.

3. Let your trellis shine with this patterned mirror in silver with a classic black frame.

4. This trellis patterned lampshade is perfectly styled in spa blue.

Here's a little tip: decorative patterned lampshades are a great way to introduce the colors and patterns of the garden indoors!

1. This flush mount light features a sparkling silver nickel trellis pattern.

2. A bold graphic trellis pattern covers this Surya pouf in a vivid papyrus color.

3. This square pouf also comes in a variety of colors including aqua or red.

4. Add pattern under foot with this classic rug in a gray and cream trellis pattern.

So enjoy the beautiful season with it's gardens and blooming flowers and green grass.

But when the summer storms come....you'll have your own trellis pattern decor inside.....to enjoy the outdoors.....

....without ever getting wet.

Photo credit: Photo 1:  Traditional Home  Photo 2: bhg

Not one for crazy colors? Neutral modern living room decor can be interesting - if created with a layered look. You don't want the room to be boring! With different textures and tones of blacks, grays, tans, and whites you can still create a modern space with depth and style. If you want to add color later, you can pick up a few colorful accessories. Kate Arends of Wit + Delight created the perfect neutral living room, where color could easily be infused with a few accessories if desired. Photo by Melissa Oholendt.

Shopping Guide: 1. Retro Desk Fan 2. Black Stix Pillow 3. Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp 4. Crystal Vase 5. Area Rug 6. Classic Romance Wall Art 7. Modern Chrome Accent Chairs 8. Gray Sectional Sofa 9. White Polar Bear Faux Fur Rug 10. Black Leather Lounge Chair 

Accessories to Add to the Neutral Modern Living Room for Color:Pretense II Wall Art, Textural Amethyst Throw Pillow, Seafoam Green Glass Vase.

Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby is a visual spectacle. Achieving a similar, explosive Great Gatsby Style at home takes real guts and commitment. This style is not for the “beige set” or lovers of contemporary minimalism, rather it’s a celebration of excess, glitz and glamour.

The sets are oozing with opulence and sumptuous fabrics. Couldn’t you get lost in the swirling drapery, or submerge yourself in the stylish and plush sofas? The rooms are heavily stylized, but reflect the merging of two great design eras: the end of turn-of-the-century ornate embellishment and the beginning of the cleaner lines found in Jazz Age Art Deco.

Set in 1922, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, covers the post World War I hedonism found among the wealthy set. Partying was paramount and interiors are a feast. On one hand we have the uber-modern Art Deco bedroom which echoes the design of Rockefeller Center with architectural furniture and chrome lighting; and on the other, old-world paneling and gilt accessories left over from previous, old-money generations. It all seems to work! 

The grandeur of the spaces is evident in the scale of the design elements chosen. Large-scale crystal chandeliers fill the foyer, while massive and elegant carpets adorn the polished floors.

Here's how to get Great Gatsby Style at home: 1. Walt Disney Signature Storyboard Square Wall Sconce 2. Fanimation Fitzgerald Satin Nickel Desk Fan or Wall Fan 3. Vixen Polished Nickel Corbett Pendant Light 4. Dobson Bouquet Dana Accent Chair 5. Westchester Landmark Classic Alarm Clock 6. Hand-Made Siren of the Sea Accent Table Lamp 

Photos:Love is Speed.

I recently collaborated with interior designer and blogger Stephanie Sabbe on a small space decorating story for Boston Home magazine called “Made To Measure." Sabbe decorated relatively small (just under 1,000-square-foot) condo for two young doctors in Boston's South End neighborhood. Sabbe is the master of efficiency. She told me, "City apartments are too expensive for people to not be utilizing every square foot to its maximum potential.”

The main living space is open, with the kitchen, dining, and living area flowing one to the next. The couple wanted a formal dining area that didn't overwhelm the space. Sabbe used a few tricks to make it happen, including choosing a glass dining table, which is less of a “visual space eater” than the reclaimed barn wood they initially requested.

In addition to two comfy dining chairs at either end (with relatively low profiles to keep city views in sight), Sabbe went with ottomans and a bench that could be tucked right underneath to keep floor space free and clear. These pieces are portable, and can easily be moved into the living room when there's a crowd. Sabbe incorporated otter pieces that do double duty, like the kitchen's height adjustable bar stools, which swivel down from bar to table height, allowing two more people to squeeze in at the table when needed.

Shopping guide: 1. Zuo Modern Xert White Upholstered Dining Chairs 2. Warm Bronze Industrial Pendant 3. Safavieh Harrison Single Tray Ottoman 4. Jamie Young Americana Metal & Wood Stool 5. Zuo Graphite Clear Glass Modern Dining Table

A highly textural grass cloth wall covering already adorned the entry when the couple moved in. Sabbe found a super skinny table to fit the narrow hall (and satisfy the homeowners penchant for barn wood) and hung an eagle-topped convex mirror in order to break up the linearity of the space.

Shopping guide: 1. Rectangular Cunningham Rustic Wood & Iron Console 2. Regency Eagle Gold Leaf Convex Wall Mirror 3. Forecast Cassandra Collection Natural Ceiling Light

Sabbe used a bold chevron rug in the living room, paired with an existing neutral chair and sofa, so sprinkling in vintage finds was important to achieve a collected look. The couple scored this Dansk credenza, which the husband painted chartreuse. A distinctive floor lamp completes the look.

Shopping guide: 1. Regency Ivory Lacquer Accent Chest 2. Horse Silhouette Art 3. Diamante Green Rug 4. Lite Source Fenella Floor Lamp

Working on a budget (as is common with small space decorating), Sabbe decided there was no need to throw out their perfectly good duvet. She did, however, spruce it up with a chartreuse border to match the throw pillows. The drapes were also done to fit the color scheme. The bedroom is a bit petite, to say the least, so there was only room for one small side table. Both husband and wife like to read in bed, so Sabbe attached wall lamps for bedroom reading overhead.

Shopping guide: 1. Small Round Rawson Wood Side Table 2. Modern Lattice Green & Natural Throw Pillow 3. Sonneman Perch Black Brass Pharmacy Wall Lamp

All interior photos by Bob O'Connor for Boston Home. For more photos of this small Boston condo visit StyleCarrot.

No matter what your bedroom decor style, there are bound to be bedside table lamps out there for you! I've rounded up 5 gorgeous bedrooms in 5 different styles (colorful, dramatic, romantic, traditional, and contemporary) and matched each with statement-making bedside table lamps from Lamps Plus.

Colorful: This room, designed by Betsy Burnham, definitely doesn't take itself to seriously. The tomato-red lamp really pops against the spring green wall. Get the look with this Robert Abbey Delta table lamp - even though the shape isn't identical, it has the same lively energy.

Dramatic: If your bedroom is bold (either in style or color) then a dramatic bedside lamp is for you! Don't be afraid to introduce a black lamp with a matching black shade to create a little ambiance and romance. This baroque style table lamp also injects a little bit of fun with its playful take on a classic style. Image via Minimalisti.

Romantic: A white artichoke lamp is a feminine classic. If you want to go over-the-top with the romantic look, swap out the white lace shade for a pink lampshade. Image via House Beautiful.

Traditional: This bedroom in warm layered shades of beige, taupe, and brown, is classic and traditional without feeling stuffy. Designer Kimberley Seldon selected a pair of crystal table lamps that are traditional in style, but light and modern with their transparent bases and soft off-white shades.

Contemporary: Don't be afraid to think outside the box in a modern-style bedroom! Instead of a pair of bedside table lamps, why not try a couple of contemporary hanging pendant lights instead? This icicle pendant light has a clean look that brings visual interest without being obtrusive. Image via Freshome.

Another great alternative to beside lamps is a pair of swing-arm lamps for the bedroom - this wall-mounted style saves valuable space on the nightstand. (See? There really are option for all tastes here!)

Making small spaces look larger can be tricky. On the one hand a small space limits what you can buy and display, yet on the other hand, it can feel cramped with only the most basic necessities. Here are some easy tricks to keep you from feeling like you are living in an episode of 'Hoarders'.

1. Frameless Rectangular 40" High Beveled Wall Mirror

Mirrors will not only visually expand the size of a room, but they may also keep you more sane as they bring in more light, whether from the sun or through the reflection of a dining room chandelier.

2. Langley Branch Round Gold Leaf Table

Leggy furniture will also help visually expand a room. When you show off more of a continuous floor you immediately make it feel more spacious. Keeping chairs, tables, sofas and even beds off the floor just enough to show the wood or carpet will make your room less claustrophobic.

3. Santa Fe Java Stain Finish Dining Table  4. Dexter Rustic Java Acacia Wood Dining Arm Chair

Double duty furniture allows you to do more in less space. Why not have your dining table double as a desk? What about your dining chairs becoming guest chairs? Instead of one chandelier, use a few contemporary pendant lights over the table to create useful task lighting when working.

5. Satin Nickel Pot Rack Chandelier

Finally, to make small spaces look larger, go vertical. By taking storage all the way up, you will tree floor space thus making your room feel larger. Additional shelves and pot racks may just be the ticket.

Photos: House and Home, Small Place Style.

As the evenings begin to warm, it seems like the perfect time of the year to throw an intimate outdoor seaside themed party! Recently, while my husband and I were regrouping on a weekend getaway spent in a beautiful, rustic cabin, we enjoyed a gorgeous outside dinner overlooking the water. Missing being in the great outdoors and inspired by our alfresco dinner, I decided to try to recreate the vibe at home with candle lanterns and coastal-inspired decor.

The easiest way to replicate the feel of a cabin on the water is to decorate the dining area with rustic details, natural fabrics, and of course, a blue and white color palette. Throwing in a shell or two never hurt either!

Besides cute details and of course, yummy food, the most important thing to remember at an outdoor gathering is that as the day turns into evening and the evening turns into night, you'll need great outdoor lighting to keep the party going. Candle lanterns add just the right amount of comfort and are such a fun way to bring the seaside theme to the next level, without going overboard.

When looking for lanterns, you'll want to look for details like rope and leather, rust and weathered wood, netting and aged glass: things that evoke water and boats. I've gathered a few outdoor candle lanterns to get you started to turning your backyard party into a relaxing, seaside getaway.

Here are some of my favorites!

Shopping guide: 1. Rhett Rustic Iron Candle Lantern 2. Steel Lantern with Leather Handle 3. Glass and Wire Mesh Hurricane Lantern 4. Tate Wood Steel and Glass Candle Lantern

Image credit: via Pinterest.

Country living can mean many things but the modern barn style is very much to my liking. Farm living feels 'so summer', but who needs the heat, hay and livestock?

My idea of roughing it is all about a chic country getaway with all the mod-cons. There is something very forward-thinking about the reinterpretation of the rustic barn and making it contemporary. I think the overall appeal comes from the tremendous volume found in barns, the informality of the spaces and the character found in the rough-hewn wood.

There can be an amazing play of materials when you pair rustic timbers with urban materials like metal and plastic. Galvanized outdoor lighting has been around a while but is enjoying a resurgence which is well deserved. Steel railings and barn doors are a chic counterpoint to well-worn beams and can be softened by crisp white slip-covered furniture.

Barn bedrooms tend to be found in the eaves and can be a characterized by a zany collection of beams. The pattern of old beams have an almost geometric look, adding to the modern feel of converted barns. A stylish and practical addition to attic bedrooms are modern ceiling fans with lights. I think a bright white fan or lamp balances the heavy dark tones and imports the necessity of modern life.

Shopping Guide: 1. Barn Wall Urban Galvanized Outdoor Wall Sconce 2. Menlo Park Old Silver Wall Sconce 3. Frameo Driftwood Desk 4. Balboa Teak and Brass Counter Height Stool 5. Jacqueline Natural Slipcover Armchair 6. Distressed White and Natural Wood Wall Mirror 7. Lights Up! Faux Bois Dark Lamp Shade

Photos: Lonny, NWKS.

Meeting your mother-in-law for the first time …
interviewing for that huge promotion …
impressing your future hubby with your wit ...
you never getting a second chance to make a first impression!

Here are seven tips for getting organized in your entryway that will set the tone for what's to come in your home:

1. Landing Space: Whether it’s a bench, console table or mirrored accent table, a place to drop your keys is key.

2. Lighting: Set the mood with adequate light. I love a statement-making drum shade chandelier in an entry – a huge one in a small entrance speaks volumes. Don’t forget a fabulous lamp with a decorative lamp shade that ties into your color scheme so your space has more than one source of light.

3. Hooks: They offer a place to hang your straw fedora and pom-pom fringed scarf. From a standing coat rack to a piece of weathered barn wood with old doorknobs as hooks, to simple numbers stenciled on the wall - get creative.

4. Mirror: Not only does a stylish wall mirror reflect light and make a space feel larger, but it’s a great place to make sure you don’t have any lipstick on your teeth before you walk out the door.

5. Bins: Wicker baskets, wooden crates or vintage metal locker drawers add texture and can hold tons of pairs of flip flops.

6. Seating: If there's room, add a small chair, stool or bench or carve a built in niche from an unused closet for the perfect place to slip on your shoes before you race out the door. 

7. Personality: The entry sets the stage for what’s in store in the rest of the house. Add pizazz with a bold wall color, unique piece of art, a framed family portrait or your favorite collection.

So make that first impression count by getting organized in your entryway ...

It's much less painful than impressing the in-laws.

Image credits: Homedit, Indulgy, This Little Estate, Better Homes and Gardens, A Beautiful Mess, via Pinterest, The New Yorkie.

Have you ever been stumped for fireplace mantel decorating ideas?

Seriously.

I think "what to do with a blank mantel?" is one of the greatest unanswered questions of the universe.

Right up there with "where did the extra socks in the dryer go?"

Or "why do they charge a toll on a freeway?"

Or "if a tree fell in the woods...would it make a sound?"

I don't have all the answers.

But I do have a few suggestions for the whole mantel conundrum.

Here are four ways to create an amazing mantel.

1.  Symmetry 

Start with a large focal point, like a dramatic piece of wall art or a large wall mirror.

Then build upon your foundation.

Add wall shelves for height and top off with a decorative piece.

Flowers or shells complete the look.

2.  Pop of Color

Sometimes all it takes is a little color to decorate a mantel.

Start with a frameless mirror and a row of pretty vases.

Then add the color with fresh flowers.

The vibrant hues of red or pink or yellow truly pop against a neutral background.

3.  Add a little sparkle

Make your mantel sparkle and shine with silver mirrored trays.

Layer the trays against a neutral background and add simple white pitchers and different white ware pieces.

Fill with white flowers and your mantel is full of vintage sophistication.

4.  It all starts with neutral

Maximize the impact of your mantel with a single color palette.

Combine a crisp white mirror with a matching pair of wall sconces.

Then decorate the rest of the mantel with white.

Or an all-red mantel or mantel in all-blue.

The impact of a single color creates a dramatic and one-of-a-kind mantel.

I still don't know about the tree in the forest.

Or the missing socks.

But fireplace mantel decorating ideas.....I think we've got them covered. 

Photo source:  Photo 1:   Traditional Home  Photo 2:  Traditional Home  Photo 3:  Thistlewood Farms  Photo 4: Country Living  Photo 5:  bhg

The lush blooms and greenery of high summer bring with them particular ability to spark the imagination, so if you're looking for home decor inspiration look no further than your nearest garden!

The great thing about inspiration is that it isn't a literal translation. You may have fallen in love your neighbor's rose arbor, but that doesn't mean you have to reupholster your sofa with chintz! A few interior elements that bring to mind classic British estate gardens may be just what your inner romantic needs.

Similarly, if the exotic appeal of a vine-covered Spanish hacienda speaks to you, look for colorful table lamps and unique wall decor that offers a similar Mediterranean sensibility. Finally, if a yard with wildflowers, moss, and stones has caught your eye, try incorporating a few unexpected and quirky touches in each room to echo the sense of organized chaos in a cottage garden.

Of course when in doubt, there's nothing like a vase of fresh flowers to bring the outdoor summer garden inside!  

Shopping Guide: 1. Antique Finish Openwork Mirror 2. Striped Outdoor Pillows 3. Ceramic Mosaic Lamp 4. Regency Eagle 31" High Gold Leaf Convex Wall Mirror  5. Midnight Floral Outdoor Pillows 6. White Porcelain Vase 7. Rustic Pine Mirror 8. Floral Outdoor Pillows 9. Green Porcelain Lamp

The warmth of summertime exudes the feeling that surrounded the Rat Pack’s world. Modern Rat Pack design should make you feel like you are living the high life, shuttling your time between Vegas and Palm Springs. I’m not necessarily advocating the party lifestyle, rather the playful look to the interiors where the Rat Pack partied.

Hot colors mixed with a heavy-handed dose of retro, mid-century design is the hallmark of this look. Think about coupling pop colors like turquoise and yellow with walnut furniture set against crisp white walls and curtains. Don’t be afraid to offset period pieces with contemporary items like architectural outdoor furniture and stylish outdoor lighting. 

Modern Rat Pack design is also all about creating spaces tailor-made for entertaining. Open plan living spaces are a perfect jumping off point for this look. While bars were key to the “Pack’s” way of life, don’t worry if you don’t happen to have one. Kitchen islands can instantly become bars...add stools and voila! If you do have a bar, open shelves to display colored glassware and barware looks great when placed against mirror, while modern kitchen pendant lights can highlight the high balls enjoyed by all the high rollers in your life.

Shopping guide: 1. Hydra 16-Light Shiny Silver Pendant Chandelier 2. Amber Swirl Hand-Made Glass Vase 3. Chevron Zig Zag Moss Green Table Lamp 4. Yellow and Cream Outdoor Accent Pillow (currently unavailable) 5. Arteriors Home Trenton Lacquered Wood Console 6. Arteriors Home Tennyson Turquoise Linen Stool 

Photos: House of Turquoise.

While kids usually don't want to sit down at a desk and get cracking on homework after a long summer off, dressing up their study space could help entice them to it.  Mixing function with design, these fun and distinctive desk lamps will surely be on your back to school lighting essentials list.

Clamp lamps are a tried and true solution to get optimum desk light.  Give your clamp lamp a stylish upgrade with a bright color or a fun retro shape.  If you can't find a stylish clamp lamp, get one in white spray paint it your favorite color.

If you have a smaller workspace and need to save room, try hanging a fun pendant overhead.  You can find pendant lights that do not need to be wired and have an on/off switch, which makes for a super simple upgrade.  For younger kids pair together brightly colored pendant lights and for your older child try a fashion forward print.

Inspiring your children to read more than just assigned books is a great way to inspire their minds and get them away from the computer and TV.  Make sure your kids have a good task lamp at the side of their bed, and utilizing a super stylish retro floor lamp will help to encourage the reading bug.

What lighting essentials will you be putting in place for back to school this year?

All Images: Pinterest

'Organic industrial interiors' might not be a technical design term, but it should be. I think it’s the perfect marriage between hard and soft, cold and warm. Visually, think about a cool loft with exposed brick or concrete walls and filling it with natural woods juxtaposed with hard metals.

Don’t live in a funky downtown loft? No sweat. What about creating an industrial chic space in your basement or even in the garage? Another way to incorporate the style would be to have concrete kitchen counters with wood cabinets. Here are some images to help you along. I love the idea of modern hanging pendant lights in metal cages dangling over soft flowers on a wood table.

Organic touches can also mean including nubby rugs and throws on top of stark floors and placing textural woven baskets on hard counters. 

Believe it or not, lamps reflect organic materials when made from wood or have shades in natural linen. A huge trend is adjustable desk lamps in aged metal or wood finishes. Notice the play between the metal locker and woven basket and belts? So fantastic and so easy to achieve.

More than anything, organic industrial interiors are playful and balanced at the same time...which is what all good design schemes should achieve.

Shopping guide: 1. Set of 2 Pascal White Plastic Side Chairs 2. Arteriors Home Henson Wood and Iron Barstool 3. Industrial Cage Black Pendant Light 4. Cerno Silva Oiled Walnut and White LED Table Lamp 5. Zuo Heywood Triple Natural Wood Bench

Photos: Decor 8.

Light emitting diode (or LED) lighting is a semiconductor light source that can seem complicated when discussing how it functions but always looks good when considered in home design and exterior home design lighting schemes. Here's how to use LED lights at home!

Modern LED home lighting is totally stylish and can be integrated into walkways and gardens. If your exterior hardscape is already finished, consider LED sconces that can be applied to walls or your home. For a dramatic touch you can also use LED lights in trees on steps and along paths.

1. Crescent Top Bronze LED Step Light 2. LBL Uptown Silver LED Outdoor Wall Light

Interiors can also benefit from stylish LED lighting. While there are many styles of LED lights that have been used in home offices and in desk lamps over the years, I happen to be loving the modernized hanging pendant light fixtures that are now available.

3. Silver Glaze Aqua Glass Nickel Tech Lighting MonoRail Pendant 4. Pele White Glass Satin Nickel LED Tech Lighting Mini Pendant

From kitchen islands to over breakfast room tables, you can choose to go classic contemporary or even retro when thinking about LED lights. In addition, you can have LED pendants directly mounted to the ceiling, part of a track system or a cool hanging rail system.

Don’t forget about creating a mood with LED under-counter lights, pins and spots. It’s one thing to have stylish lamps and hanging fixtures, it’s also important to layer your lighting.

5. WAC Satin Nickel LED Under Cabinet Light Bar (currently unavailable) 6. Veil White Glass Satin Nickel Tech Lighting MonoRail Pendant

Photos: Let Me Be Inspired.

Anyone living in a big city knows that space is something to covet. For chic small space living, you are probably always looking for furniture and decor solutions to your space problems. Living in DC myself and moving from a 3-bedroom house to a 1-bedroom apartment, I've become an expert at condensing my belongings and finding furniture that fits without compromising style. 

One— Any chair on wheels is perfect for small space living. You can roll it around your space wherever it is needed.

Two— Opt for a tall dresser to maximize vertical space.

Three— It's a popular design tip to add a mirror when you want a space to feel bigger.

Four— Contemporary chairs that stack are perfect for when you have people over, but then you can stack them up when you need more room.

Five— Store blankets, pillows, magazines and other items in these baskets. If they are empty, you can stack them into each other to save on space.

Six— A clear table doesn't take up visual space but gives you a good surface.

Seven— Unfortunately fans, steamers and vacuums are unsightly. Luckily a screen can hide them all without making them hard to get to.

Eight— Pedestal tables can be put virtually anywhere you need them!

Nine— A TV stand with storage can store items you need but don't want out on display.

Ten— Utilize as much vertical space as possible with tall shelving.

Shopping Guide: 1. White Leather Low Back Swivel Office Chair 2. Atherton Eastern Onyx Highboy 3. Murray Feiss Parker Place Brushed Steel Wall Mirror 4. Set of 4 Frida Laminated Walnut Side Chairs 5. Set of 3 Dunn Sea Grass Catch-All Baskets 6. Zuo Sojourn Coffee Table 7. Cancun 71" High Outdoor Tri-fold Screen 8. Tammy Marble and Powdercoat Steel Side Table 9. Uber 4-Drawer Mocha TV Stand 10. Monacco 3-Shelf Rustic Wood and Iron Etagere

Casual cottage living is on my brain now that summer is in full swing. This casual country interior design trend is relaxed and very easy to live with - picture a quaint beach house on the shore. Lamps Plus has created an entire shop dedicated to the ease of cottage living where you will find everything you need to update your home in this style.

Cottage living can be many things. From oceanfront bungalows to lakeside cabins, if water is nearby, consider yourself lucky. Designing in shore style can be relaxed or a tad more formal, but regardless of the tack you take there are some basic elements you should incorporate.

Cottage style evolves from its proximity to water, so think about using natural, worn woods like you might find on a dock, shells and shell motifs. Don’t be afraid to use weather or rusted metals indoors, as new metals will likely patina anyway from the salty air.

Consider easy slipcovered furniture and rope decor that is synonymous with boats and moorings. Coral is also a time-honored accessory and is always tasteful on shelves, tables or even when converted to lighting. Coral or wood accent mirrors should also be used to reflect expansive water views when possible. Remember, the cottage living look should be easy, playful and above all a place where you can ultimately unwind.

Shopping List: 1. Hand-Blown Teal Bubble Glass Table Lamp (currently unavailable) 2. Uttermost Eliseo Light Walnut Wood Round Wall Mirror 3. National Geographic Pale Peach Ocean Coral Table Lamp 4. Cabana Banana Honey Oak Round Glass Top Accent Table 5. Set of 2 Cone/Strombe Framed Seashell Wall Art 6. Set of 2 Safavieh Spice Beach Lime Coral Fan Pillows 

Photos: House of Turquoise.