As a Lifestyle Expert and Designer, I come across so many beautiful things each and every day. I feel lucky that I can be so inspired every day but at the same time there are just SO many interior color trends that I want to share and talk about. A color combo I’ve recently come across has me swooning over it is lavender + BOLD black and white stripes. It's part ladylike, part edgy, which is the perfect combination for any space at home or at work.

There are a few different ways you can incorporate both the color and pattern into a space, so here we go!

Photo from The Pretty Blog

1. Let the Color be the Star of the Space

Let lavender be the focus of the space with pops of black and white like this ultra chic sofa. One accent wall or all your walls would work with this color combo, depends on how much lavender you want in your space. This way the color/pattern combination isn't super overpowering because the pattern is used sparingly and the rest of the decor is neutral colors like black and white. P.S. I spy a really chic retro floor lamp in the above photo - get it here!
 

Photo from Porter House Designs

2. Let the Pattern be the Star of the Space

On the other side, you can have the bold black + white as the focus of the space if you’re looking to do something more out there and fun. Unless you plan on changing your space a lot make sure you love this look since it will be the main focus of your space for a while. If the pattern is the star, you’ll want to minimize the amount of color- In this room, the walls feature the very trendy black + white pattern with a big, purple accent piece. Similar to the other the other room, the rest of the furniture and decor is pretty neutral. The big pop of color looks great with the walls, but doesn't make it look too busy or just TOO much.

Photo from I Love Wallpaper

3. Combine the Two for a Fabulous Accent Wall

I LOVE wallpaper both temporary and the more permanent kind so if you’re a fan like me, you’ll love this wallpaper. If you're looking to combine the color and pattern in one swoop, this wallpaper is the perfect thing for your space. Since its really bold, I would keep this to an accent wall or ceiling + accent wall and that’s it. Silver and Lucite accessories make for great accent pieces and décor for this version of lavender/black + white stripes too.

Photo from Pinterest

4. Use Flowers and Keep the Color to a Minimum

Flowers are an easy way to instantly add color into any space and this photo shows it best. I love that the chairs and black and white theme stand out on its own but then so do the flowers in the center of the table as well. Use actual lavender bunches in short vases for some relaxing scents and more of a whimsy vibe. How gorgeous and elegant does this room look with the striped chair covers and the bright flowers?
 

Photo from GHoofie

5. Go For the Darker Side of this Color Trend

Black and white stripes look amazing on their own and with a darker palette like this room. If you're not a fan of shades of purple, this may be your best option. Keep a lot of white in the space if you don't want it to feel too closed in. If you’re still unsure about combining a color and a pattern, go for the darkest shade of your favorite color. I'd go for a rich, deep purple with a beautiful chair or accent pieces If I didn't want too much contrast in the room. Because the color is dark, it won’t pop out as much against the black + white stripes and it will blend in with the rest of the space.

What do you think of interior color trends like this one - lavender, black, and white? LOVE it or LEAVE it?

Choosing the right lights for kids rooms is essential not just to ensuring that a space is properly lit, or to setting the right mood, but it instantly enhances the overall look. Think of it as jewelry for your room. Done in a bright color, it connects the dots, pulling together a spot of color on the rug with a throw pillow, or just punctuating an otherwise neutral palette.

Adding vibrant lighting to kids rooms (including colorful novelty accent lamps) is especially satisfying, as its a place where color is celebrated rather than restrained. So, from a mod mini-pendant to a unique chandelier to a sleek wall sconce, pick a light fixture in a fun hue. Here are six colorways from which to choose:

Bright blue boys rooms are hardly new, but add a pendant to the mix and suddenly the scheme feels fresh. Photos: Remodelista; Elle Decor.

Shopping guide: 1. Possini Euro Design Circulo White & Blue Pendant 2. Peri Collection Blue Glass Mini Pendant 3. Cassini Jellyfish Cyan Glass Pendant

Red is also easily integrated, as so many toys still come standard in primary shades. Mix in red with neutral tones or use it to electrify basic black and white. Photos: Apartment Therapy; Mi Casa.

Shopping guide: 1. Horizontal Stripe Rectangle Giclee Shade Wall Sconce 2. Red Penelope Pendant 3. Quorum Birdcage 4-Light Pendant

If you don't want to stray into the world of color with hard-wired lighting—perhaps you're planning on reselling, or transitioning a nursery back to a guest room—go with a glossy black light fixture. A geometric silhouette or whimsical style still infuses interest. Photos: Annaleena's Hem; Design Crisis.

Shopping guide: 1. Jonathan Adler Antwerp Black and Brass Pendant 2. Bohemian Black Art Crystal Chandelier 3. Possini Euro Diamond Cage Pendant

Yellow is the perfect go-to gender neutral shade—bright, cheerful, and was to match, whether you're working with a symphony of primary colors or a more restrained color scheme. Photos: My Scandinavian Home; Scandinavian Deko.

Shopping guide: 1. Kidsplace Butterfly Mobile Pendant 2. Jonathan Adler Capri Glass Wall Sconce 3. Jezebel Radiance Lily Gold Canary Yellow Glass Pendant

Mix sky blue with red and you have a lighter, fresh look for a little boy, or pair with lime green for a girl. Versatile and airy, sky blue lighting is pretty in traditional and more modern styles. Photos: Design by Heather Harkovich in Southern Living; photographer Angus Fergusson for House & Home.

Shopping guide: 1. Possini Euro Darby Blue Glass Pendant 2. LBL Isla Aqua Nickel Pendant 3. Florence Aqua Glass Pendant

Orange, the color everyone loves to hate. True, it's retro '70s reference can be tricky to work with, but a little goes a long way. Punch up a plain space or bring a loud one to the edge with these colorful lights. For kids rooms, there's nothing better. Photos: Design by Giannetti Home; design by Julie Hillman.

Shopping guide: 1. Access Lighting Sydney Brushed Steel Orange Mini Pendant 2. Sonneman Perch Gloss Orange Pharmacy Wall Lamp 3. Invigorate Bold Stripe Giclee Glow Swag Pendant

Urban living usually means a compromise on space, however it doesn’t mean you must give up on style. There are many ways to make your urban home chic and clutter free, tips which are simple tricks that can even be applied if you rent an apartment. Here's how to make the most of homes under 1000 square feet.

1. Chrome Boom Arc Floor Lamp with Linen Shade

I love this image because it shows how inventive you can be in a small space. The table looks like it’s a desk converted into a dining table with an end table/stool used as a seat. I’m extremely fond of the distinctive floor lamp used as a primary light source for dining. This could be fabulous for renters who do not have overhead lighting.

2. Kichler Everly Bronze Glass Pendant

Mini hanging pendant lights in clear glass are great for small urban homes. Their small size essentially keeps them unobtrusive, yet they offer the perfect amount of light. The raw nature of the glass keeps the look current and urban.

3. Set of 2 Zuo Soar White Bar Stools 4. Geometric Silver Glass Coffee Table

Small apartments and condos are beginning to offer less space for proper dining rooms, which means the kitchen counter or island is the only place to dine. Investing in leggy barstools will not only offer more seating, but create the illusion of more space as you highlight a room’s verticality, versus traditional tables and upholstered chairs that can eat up floor space. Lighter based, glass top tables are also great for small spaces. The airy look keeps light flowing throughout a room, while the surface space is plain and simply practical.

5. Milano Black Rectangular Wall Mirror

Whether you like a polished, frameless or a wood accent mirror, they visually expand a room and are a timeless decorative object.

6. Set of 4 Zuo Anime Transparent Dining Chairs

Transparent "ghost" chairs are great for urban living. They can be used for dining or as a desk chairs (you may wish to add a cushion if you sit a while) and visually take up very little space.

Photos: Lonny, Small Place Style, Better Homes & Gardens.

I don't like low ceilings...

...but that's life. And coming up with lighting ideas for low ceilings is a tricky thing.

I love tall ceilings....the higher the better.

I love ceilings with soaring heights.....lined with rustic beams and giant chandeliers and crystals and glitter and rooms full of glistening light.

Rooms that would have hosted King Arthur and his round-table knights for dinner.

But the reality is....we don't all live in castles.

According to a recent survey....the average home's ceiling height is 8 feet.

That's all us non-castle living people.

So how do you add light fixtures to a standard room that create the illusion of height and still have the ability to make the room feel spacious?

1. Industrial Lighting

The industrial light fixture trend is here to stay.

Add warmth and a twist on traditional design with zinc and steel and chrome and wire, as seen in the industrial chic interior design trend.

Industrial design offers graphic and clean lines that add a old-world feel to a room while bringing a feeling of nostalgia to any decor.

2. Modern and Contemporary Lighting

Modern contemporary light fixtures create drama and provide a basic foundation for the rest of the room's decor.

Or why not introduce elegant modern lighting fixtures to really make a statement?

Adding a dramatic light fixture provides visual interest at the ceiling and draws the eye upward making the room feel larger.

3. Classic and Simple Lighting

One way to visually raise the height of your ceiling is with lighting that blends in with the surrounding decor.

Try a classic white close-to-ceiling light that adds texture and classic appeal.

Or choose a neutral fixture with a subtle repeating geometric pattern for a contemporary take on a classic ceiling light.

4. Go Bold With Color

Embrace color and enhance a low ceiling with bold hues and patterns.

Whether it's stripes or a brick weave pattern....vibrant lighting choices can add drama and interest to any decor.

Or why not try polka dots or custom designed art shade lighting  for your room?

Vivid colors wrap the room in warmth and create a welcoming ambiance.

Whatever your ceiling height....whatever your decor.....lighting can make all the difference.

So whether bold or neutral, industrial or contemporary....choose whichever lighting ideas enhance your low ceilings.....

....and make your castle feel like a home.

Photo credits: photo 1: House to Home, UK photo 2: Apartment Therapy photo 3: Harpers Bazaar photo 4: bhg photo 5: bhg

Eco-friendly "green" design is officially here to stay.  From recycled materials to re-purposed furniture to energy efficient light bulbs, the green trend has solidified a place in mainstream design.  Here we dissect the trend and show you how to incorporate green décor into your own home.

Innovations in LED lighting have brought to the market some really amazing products.  Stunning and modern LED home lighting is energy efficient and can keep monthly energy costs much lower than traditional light bulbs.  Whether with a statement LED chandelier or a sleek LED desk lamp, swapping out a traditional fixture for an energy efficient one will bring a modern look to your space, while saving you money and using much less electricity.

Re-purposing vintage furniture and using reclaimed materials in your space is a really cool way to make your décor more eco-friendly.  Reupholstering a sofa with great bones can bring a second life and fresh style to your home.  Using reclaimed materials such as wood and steel eliminates waste from larger projects and leaves less of a thumbprint on our planet.

Another way to bring eco-friendly “green" design into your space is to eliminate the green!  Grass and water reliant plants and landscaping use tons of water and chemicals to stay healthy and alive.  Re-landscaping your backyard to include more concrete and drought-resistant plants is one of the “greenest” moves you can make.

All images: via Pinterest.

It’s all in the details.

The unexpected little things in a room - like a ceramic garden stool - give it pizzazz, personality and punch.

A few details that I’m obsessing over right now include finding the perfect decorative bathroom mirror, brass lamps with a vintage feel and ceramic garden accent stools.

The trendy garden stool can add color, extra seating, a place to set your cocktail or just add a little whimsy when perched in an unexpected place.

Layer these ceramic accents under a console table and pull them out when company arrives.

Plus, they play well with others - other styles that is - and they are just as at home in traditional or modern houses.

Here’s to putting out the welcome mat and inviting the ceramic garden stool inside.

Image credits: Lonny, Denoxa, Lonny, House to Home, Homeedit.

Have you ever wondered how to decorate a table?

Or is it just me? 

It's easy to start with a table runner or tablecloth or dishes or silverware.....

.....but then what?

Where do you go next?

Do you layer or stack or shine or simplify?

If you're like me and you've ever thought a blank table top was a little intimidating....

....here's a few ideas to make your table top decorating a little easier.

1.  Bring the outside in

Take advantage of the colors and scents of the season with this simple table top ideas that shines.

Set the table with a neutral pallet of white linens, white dishes, polished silver and elegant glassware.

Then select vivid blooms in simple containers to truly pop against the neutral table settings.

2.  Think outside the box

Why not decorate your table with unusual containers or re-purposed every day items.

Baskets planted with spring flowers make an unusual and creative centerpiece idea.

Cakes on staggered cake stands accompanied by a decorative tray of simple cake toppings creates an inviting dessert buffet table for your guests.

3.  Look up

Don't forget the space above the table when decorating.

String a banner or drape flowers or hang lanterns for visual interest.

Complete the look by introducing tiered stands and decorative bowls filled with fresh flowers.

4.  Add color

Fill a table with color and texture for a summer afternoon gathering.

Start with a brilliant hue for your tablecloth and begin to layer stemware and dishes.

Create a simple centerpieces using simple glass vases. 

Wrap a vase with a ribbon and place next to a tall vase filled with a single floating flower.

But the when the dishes are placed and the vases are filled.....what's the most important reason to learn how to decorate a table?

To create a place where friends and family feel welcome.

Where the conversation dances across the table and laughter fills the air.....

.....and the memories made last a lifetime.

Photo credits:  Photo 1: bhg Photo 2: Martha Stewart Photo 3: Martha Stewart  Photo 4: Country Living  Photo 5:  bhg Photo 6: Apartment Therapy

One of the fastest ways to change the look of your space is to inject a fresh hit of color—and there's no better source of color than eye-catching colorful lighting! After all, lighting does double duty in the home by not only adding visual interest but also by illuminating the entire room. Whether you want explore beyond neutral territory or you're already incorporating multiple tones throughout your home and want to add more, bold table lamps and vivid ceiling fixtures are the way to go.

Just as when you were a kid with a box of crayons in kindergarten, there's no right or wrong answer when it comes to playing with colorful lighting. A single splash of aqua from a colorful pendant light in a bright white room makes a striking statement, while a pair of bedside table lamps to complement your decor has classic appeal. Don't forget about lamp shades, too! They can be ordered in practically every hue of the rainbow, not to mention there are a growing number of custom lamp shade prints and patterns as well.

Increasingly, the question isn't 'Will you incorporate colorful lighting?' but rather 'How will you decide on just one to change the look of your space?!'

Shopping Guide: Red Ceiling Pendant, Green Gradient Glass Pendant Lamp, Ikat Swag Style Chandelier, Yellow Acrylic Table Lamp, Robert Abbey Delta Table Lamp, Turquoise and Sand Striped Table Lamp, Guatemalan Print Drum Shade, Wooden Tulip Bulb Table Lamp, Tripod Floor Lamp with Red Shade, Color Plus Pink Gourd Lamp with Chevron Shade. 

Images: Lamps Plus Guest Blogging Pinterest

Dorm decorating ideas may seem far off since it's only July, but I beg to differ. College terms usually begin in August so that means along with worrying if you will like your roommate, you need to start thinking about the aesthetics of your dorm room. 

Dorm rooms are basically a step above minimum security prisons...not that I have ever been in one (a prison, that is!). The big question is how one creates a comfortable space of their own where they can live and study in style.

There are two main ways to decorate a dorm room. The first is to add color, personality and try anything to cover up cinderblock walls and linoleum floors. The second, is to embrace the minimal space and go for rustic modern.

Both looks can be chic. The first is all about experimentation with color and pattern. You’re young and the dorm room is probably the first space you can decorate as an adult so trial and error is OK. The second - the minimal dorm room - can be liberating and modern. Embracing the raw materials of the room can allow you to focus on the work at hand...studying.

Regardless of the style, these dorm decorating ideas will get you started: make sure you have plenty of lighting like an adjustable desk lamp or swing arm lamps; buy a clock to make sure you get to class; invest in something soft under foot; and of course, purchase comfortable bedding.

Shopping List: 1. George Kovacs Polished Chrome Arc Floor Lamp 2. Veranda VR-16 Tangerine Indoor/Outdoor Area Rug 3. Datekeeper Silver Round Wall Clock 4. Teal Mini Mandalas Decorative Accent Pillow 5. Set of 2 Pascal White Plastic Side Chairs 6. Koncept Gen 3 Z-Bar Mini Warm Light LED Desk Lamp Orange

Photos: Apartment Therapy, Home Interior Fashion.

I have been lucky enough to see many sides of this big world.  One of the most beautiful and serene places I have visited recently was the Australian Outback - a vast area that is mostly uninhabited.  The colors, textures and lighting of this magical open space are so inspiring.  Here are some home decorating ideas to bring the duality of tranquility and vibrancy of the Australian Outback to your home design.

Bright rusty reds really pop along the open pathways of the outback and bright blue skies offer a beautiful contrast.  To achieve this rustic, country look utilize textured fabrics, exposed brick and warm accent lighting.  

Ayers Rock is a must-see in the vast openness of the outback, surrounded by wild plants and bush in neutral tones.  This entryway embodies the feel and palette with oversized wild leaves instead of a floral arrangement, rustic wooden furniture in buttery neutral tones and eclectic wall decor. 

The vast open sky bleeds a beautiful rich blue color.  Try staining your wide plank wooden floors a deep turquoise for a fun punch of vibrant color.

Formed from granite over 700 million years ago, the Wave Rock formations are the epitome of stunning texture.  Get the look with natural elements such as stack stone, staggered wood paneling and patterned fabrics in rich amber hues.

The striking sunsets in the Australian outback are some of the most beautiful in the world, and are sure to spark some inspiring home decorating ideas. Re-imagine an outback sunset in your own home with soft, inviting fabrics, comfortable seating, rich amber tones and a wood burning fire (if you have a fireplace that is).

All Images: Pinterest

Back in 2009, I wrote about a spectacular house on Nantucket with its coastal decor designed by Frank Roop, one of Boston's most prominent interior designers (and my personal favorite). I absolutely love the rooms, done in Roop's signature style, with seaside colors, interesting but never fussy vintage finds, custom furniture, light fixtures with bespoke lampshades, and a sprinkling of Moroccan details. All the while, Roop manages to make it pure Nantucket, with chic references to this very sophisticated coastal community.

Here's how he pulled it together, along with pieces you can use in your own house.

The architectural details are fairly traditional, with its plank wood floor, unpainted beams, and wainscoting, but the the airy entryway is chockfull of interesting details. It's anchored by a painted, Swedish neoclassical table upon which sits a cluster of earthy accessories, including driftwood branches, a hunk of quartz, and a small succulent. Above, Roop hung a faux bamboo chandelier, infusing Chinoiserie chic.

Shopping guide: 1 Disney Fantasia Nutcracker Suite Ferns Art 2 Square on Squares Outdoor Bench 3 Expressionistic Wood-Look Stallion Sculpture (currently unavailable) 4 Traditions Collection Hudson Dining Table 5 Succulent Arrangement in Stone Bowl 6 Quorum Salento Persian Chandelier

This dreamy bathroom, which has the only tub in the house, is done in a pale, watery palette, complete with shimmer. The homeowner chose the coastal style chandelier for a slightly kitschy (it’s made out of shells!), but a wholly appropriate touch.

Shopping guide: 1 Kathy Ireland Devon Antique White Crystal Chandelier 2 Blue Shells Coastal Wall Art 3 Olivia Polygon Shell Accent Stool (currently unavailable)

As is his custom, Roop designed all the upholstered pieces in the living room. Roop loves to do contrasting cushions, as you can see on the daybed. They frame is upholstered in linen and the cushion, which almost looks like a mattress, is in a cozy, blue-green linen velvet. It sits in front of the window, but since there's no back, it doesn't block the view. The drapes are also quintessential Roop, comprised of three swathes of softly colored vertical panels stitched together. They’re linen, with some shine, in three different colors. Finally, since the family have two dogs and three cats, sisal rugs are the perfect no-fuss floor solution. 

Shopping guide: 1 Trace Collection Lagoon Armless Sofa 2 Sabertooth Seagrass Area Rug 3 Aegean Dandelion Print Armless Chair 4 Buchanan Industrial Style Nickel Floor Lamp

The centerpiece of the room is the faux bamboo bed, which the homeowners found on their own in Maine. The green porcelain lamp on the far side of the bed echoes the bamboo look, as does the floor lamp, which is a vintage Jacques Adnet piece, finished with a custom lampshade constructed from string (another Roop specialty). Roop designed the slipper chair, the side table is Syrian, inlaid with mother-of-pearl. The Roop-designed sofa is covered in sand-colored linen and the vintage faux bamboo stool is topped with a cushion of silk canvas. There's a natural, no-nonsense sisal rug in here too, which is a coastal-style essential.

Shopping guide: 1 Turned Candlestick Faux Wood Floor Lamp 2 Surya Tobias Avocado Throw Blanket 3 Uttermost Karline Natural Linen Bench 4 Thumprints Juicy Lime Green Glasswirl Shade Table Lamp 5 Safavieh Orson Blue and White Accent Chair

The homeowners wanted their daughters’ rooms to be reflect their individual personalities, so they were allowed to choose their colors. The youngest wanted lime green. The walls are somewhat pale, but Roop revved up the intensity for the niche, which is a more acid shade. Its Moorish shape echoes the silhouette of the headboard, and adds an ethnic note that’s found throughout the house. On the mid-century modern side table, he placed a 1960s studio pottery lamp with a custom shade white linen shade trimmed with grosgrain ribbon, another Frank Roop signature touch in his coastal decor style.

Shopping guide: 1 Jamie Young Berlin White Marble Accent Table 2 Lime Green Moroccan Pillow 3 Ceramic Teal Mid-Century Table Lamp 4 Silver and Gold Leaves Branch Wall Art

For more on these fabulous interiors, see StyleCarrot's two-part blog post: Design Diary: Frank Roop in Nantucket (Part I) and Design Diary: Frank Roop in Nantucket (Part II).

Welcome to our new blog series, Design Dossier– we’ll be sharing highlights of some of Lamps Plus’ most popular, unique, and interesting lighting choices straight from our showrooms. Since summer is in full swing and outdoor entertaining is on everyone’s mind, today we’re featuring the sleek and stylish Franklin Iron Works Framed Slate Bronze ADA Compliant 16" High Wall Light.

Although you may think that outdoor lighting isn’t affordable, think again! At well under $200 (with free shipping and free returns), this outdoor wall light is an affordable showstopper. Its high-end finish looks luxe, but it’s an affordable luxury that will accent the exterior of your home for years to come. Genuine slate is the centerpiece of this light fixture, and due to naturally occurring design variations in the slate, no two are exactly alike. This unique design detail elevates it above the rest.

This ADA compliant fixture has a slim profile, extending just 4” from the wall – and its shallow projection allows for generous clearance in walkways or hallways for those individuals with physical disabilities. While we’re clearly proud of this design achievement, sometimes our customers just say it best: “Excellent light. Well made. Good material. Easy installation. Very happy with this choice.”

Now that you know a little more about the Franklin Iron Works Framed Slate Bronze ADA Compliant 16" High Wall Light, be sure to follow along with our new Design Dossier monthly series for more showroom picks from Lamps Plus.

Whether you live in a large home or a small apartment, when you invite a guest over there comes that inevitable moment in time when a guest must visit the bathroom. In many homes the powder room is designed for such purposes, so take the time to learn how to decorate a bathroom with an appeal that pleases both your design senses and 'wows' guests when they enter.

A modern approach to bathroom design is to blend traditional style with contemporary pieces by choosing a stylish vanity and decorative bathroom mirror. Consider a bold geometric wallpaper in a small space bathroom. 

Bathroom design / Venetian Mirror / White Bathroom Vanity

Introduce drama with contrasting dark and light tones, by mixing rich woods with pale neutral paint and textural tile wainscot on the walls. Achieve a similar look with an espresso vanity, wood mirror, and bathroom sconces.

Wood Frame Wall Mirror / Contemporary Bathroom Vanity / Faux Candle Wall Sconce / Bathroom Image

Mirrored finishes always inject a dose of glamour – pair a mirrored bathroom vanity with a variegated wood tone mirror for warmth next to the cooler reflective finish. Accent with fresh flowers and luxurious hand towels to spoil yourself and guests. Add texture with grasscloth wallpaper hung above a traditional wainscot wall treatment.  

Bathroom Image / Zebrawood Wall Mirror / Transitional Mirrored Vanity

If your powder room features nothing more than a contractor vanity and plain mirror, no need to fret - transform it in a weekend with a fresh coat of paint and a sassy or sophisticated mirror to replace the frameless plain Jane that hangs above.

A powder room is a space that can be remodeled in a few days with the assistance of a plumber to help you install a new vanity. New paint or wallpaper on the walls and a stunning statement mirror above will transform any drab powder room into a fab conversation-worthy space. Decorate with wood vanities and mirrors in metallic sheens (or ones possessing carved or textural elements like these three examples), mixing angular vanities with curvy mirrors and vice versa.

Shopping guide: Uttermost Spadola 30" High Hammered Copper Wall Mirror, Meridian Cut Corner 35 1/2" High Bronze Oval Wall Mirror, Quoizel Monterey Mosaic 30" High Rectangular Wall Mirror, Knox Zebra Wood Black Granite 39" Wide Sink Bath Vanity, Kent Chestnut 39" Wide Sink Bath Vanity, Venisia Ebony Finish Vanity (currently unavailable).    

Painted vanities in classic shades of black and white are also upgraded when combined with modern decorative mirrors in round shapes that that pair with their clean lines but also contrast with their sharp angular shapes. 

Shopping guide: Greek Key 34 1/2" Wide Bronze Round Wall Mirror, Clear Petal Sunburst Round 28 1/2" Wide Wall Mirror, Hill and Dale 32" Wide Silver Wall Mirror, Elton Espresso White Marble 30" Wide Floating Vanity Set,  Chelsea 30" Wide Soft White Single Sink Vanity, Urban Loft 30" Wide Espresso Brown Single Sink Vanity. 

Take a cue on how to decorate a bathroom from any of these spaces to make yours stand out in a sea of ordinary. Combine a stylish vanity with a chic mirror in an interesting combination, and welcome guests into your appealing powder room.

The dog days of summer are upon us. The country has been baking and all anybody wants to do is lay low and avoid anything strenuous. Choosing lighting and decor based on sultry summer days seems bizarre at best, however I have put together some calming home decor that is the essence of relaxation and good taste.

The natural shade of a beautiful dog’s coat is my inspiration. I have chosen objects that reflect this natural aesthetic as they seem to be subdued and calming, just the way you want to be on a hot summer afternoon.

Robert Abbey Taupe Ceramic and Brass Table Lamp

Gray is a great summer neutral as it grounds whites and creams. Sophisticated bedside lamps in this shade can add interest to basic white bedding.

Woolrich River Run Off-White Knitted Pillow

Cool whites are a summer classic. From slipcovered sofas to white terry towels no summer home should be without some white.

Penngrove Collection Grady Grey Area Rug

Neutral patterns will add visual interest to a monochromatic room, especially one with simply painted white walls.

Springcrest™ Natural Linen Shade

Linen epitomizes summertime, and it's the perfect breezy fabric to adorn your lighting and decor in the dog days of summer. Decorative lamp shades look fabulous in linen and create a coastal feel.

Dog Silhouette Animal Wall Art

Using crisp black is a necessity in decorating regardless of the season. Like a deep gray, it grounds a space and adds visual weight to lighter colors. Black trim and borders on window treatment and furniture adds punch yet keeps the look cool and sophisticated. 

Photos: The New Victorian Ruralist.

I love nautical styles in both my wardrobe and when it comes to styling a space. The summer and the sea, a place for relaxation and when its comes to design and décor, a style that’s both relaxed and yet preppy too. It’s a popular design style and not just for beach houses anymore, it can serve as office inspiration too - SWOON!

Its not always easy to bring nautical office inspiration in; I think of anything that’s navy, and reminds me of the sea or boating but I think there are three simple ways you can create a nautical workspace:

1. The DIY Version

If you’re a do-it-yourself kinda guy/gal, then you’ll love taking on a makeover project of one of your current pieces. A dresser, or much better, a boring filing cabinet can easily become a nautical piece for that added element of the sea and summer. Even a sea or boat-inspired temporary wallpaper on top of your desk would be a great pop of color without becoming too distracting.

2. Style your Space with Nautical Accessories

Most likely the easiest way to get the nautical look is by styling your space with nautical accessories. Things like sea-inspired bookends, nautical desk accessories, navy table lamps, and even model ships work great if you’re going for the full look. If you get tired of the look, switch them out for something new and fresh, maybe even something for fall since it's just right around the corner.

3. A Pop of Paint goes a Long Way

Navy is the official nautical color and when it comes to your workspace, even just a navy accent wall can bring in the nautical vibe. It’s a specific shade, you’ll know it when you see it. If you’ve got a landlord that won’t allow you to paint, there are also temporary wall decals/wall paper that have a similar color.

Some more gorgeous nautical office inspiration:

Would any of you try the Nautical look in your workspace? Let me know in the comments below!

XOXO,

Sayeh

Photo credits (from top to bottom): via Houzz , PoppyTalk, Lamps Plus, via Houzz, via Pinterest, via Pinterest.

It's never too early to start thinking about holiday decorating, right? We've partnered with Hometalk to bring you the Hometalk & Lamps Plus Holiday Challenge 2013! You'll receive the lamp pictured above - the Color PlusFillable Clear Glass Ovo Table Lamp - and you'll get to fill it and decorate it with anything you like.

The top three winning designs will be featured in the 2013 Lamps Plus Holiday Catalog, plus they will each receive a $500 Lamps Plus shopping spree! Apply here for your chance to enter the Hometalk & Lamps Plus Holiday Challenge. Hurry - space is limited!

Click here to download the official rules.

In small spaces, it's important to make sure you get plenty of light. Floor lamps are a great option when space is at a premium, when space-saving hardwired fixtures are not an option. Lamps that jut, arc, or twist dramatically may look amazing, but could eat into valuable square footage. An articulating lamp seems great in theory, but if it needs ten feet of space to stretch, it's going to cause chaos in a little room.

Choose floor lamps with smaller profiles and pay attention to where and how the light shines. It's great to have an uplight, but you may need a reading light too - and don't forget the importance of a dimmer for your lamps. Let's look at a few rooms so you can get the idea before evaluating your lighting needs.

West Coast designer Emily Ruddo of Armonia Decors used pretty sky blue lamps to flank the gray velvet sofa for light and color. The silhouettes are simple, thereby not taking up too much space, but the distinct hues make a style statement. Photo by Meghan Beierle-O'Brien.

Boston-based designer Rachel Reider used the distinctive Sabine floor lamp by Arteriors Home behind one of the armchairs. The base is simple and slim, but the bulb, which echoes the organic shapes in the abstract artwork, is sophisticated and will throw off plenty of light for reading or entertaining. Photo by Michael Partenio.

This cozy armchair is surely a favorite spot for reading and enjoying coffee or tea. During the day, plenty of light streams in, but at night, a lamp is a must. This floor lamp bends in a few places, but doesn't have any protruding parts. Photo credit: Femina.

This is certainly not a small space, but in order to stick to a minimalist sensibility, the designer chose a pair of barely there floor lamps that are focused light sources. Photo by Karyn R. Millet. 

Although arc-style floor lamps tend to be space-eaters, San Diego-based designer Anita Dawson tucked this one into a corner that would otherwise go unused. And the color is a fun contrast against the gray fireplace. Photo by Casey Dunn.

Here are 10 of my favorite floor lamps for small spaces:

1. George Kovacs Dorian Bronze Arc Floor Lamp 2. Robert Abbey Porter Polished Nickel Floor Lamp 3. Mimosa White Glass Floor Lamp 4. Bloomfield Satin Steel Floor Lamp 5. Draper 3-Light Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamp 6. Arteriors Home Sabine Floor Lamp 7. Gen 2 i-Tower Metallic Black Daylight LED Floor Lamp 8. Multi-Color Glass 5-Arm Floor Lamp 9. Rust Spun Metal Industrial Style Floor Lamp 10. Holtkoetter Tilt Base Old Bronze Floor Lamp

Flush mount lighting has come a long way. My earliest memory of this lighting style comes from seeing those frosted glass flush mounts, basically a plate, screwed to the ceiling of bedrooms in ranch style houses. Can you say depressing? Beat you to it.

Rooms that are challenged with low ceiling height (like kitchens), as well as tight spaces like halls and bathrooms can benefit from stylish flush mount ceiling light fixtures. Space saving can now look chic.

1. Jonathan Adler Parker Nickel Ceiling Light 2. Possini Euro Ivory-White Flushmount Ceiling Fixture 3. Murray Feiss Stelle Ceiling Light Fixture

The most popular flush mount style these days is the drum shape which comes in a myriad of designs to fit any decorating scheme. From glamorous mid-century to clean linen and even craftsman-style, there are no limitations when it comes to stylishly adding light in a room.

4. Nassau Polished Nickel Ceiling Light 5. Sonneman Rialto Surface Ceiling Light Fixture

Flush mount lights are perfect in kitchens and some of the retro looks are spot-on for period style rooms. Who wants a dangling chandelier in your way when you are trying to cook. Unless, of course, you have soaring ceilings! I would stick with a glass and metal fixture as cloth or linen might get soiled over time. 

6. Robert Abbey Axis Aged Brass Ceiling Light

Refined drum shade chandeliers in flush-mount style are beautiful in bedrooms. Like kitchens, sometimes bedroom ceilings can be low or there is a four poster bed that takes up vertical space. I would opt for a soft fabric drum shade, like the scalloped version above. These are just a few flush mount lighting ideas - the options really are endless.

Photos: House of Turquoise.

Most homes have some form of organic inspiration. Whether you have wood furniture, wool carpets or linen window treatment, organic materials are pretty much everywhere. The difference in having an “organic look” however, comes when you use organic materials in their raw state.

Lamps Plus has an entire section of merchandise dedicated to the design trend Organic Inspiration. Here you will find unique home decor with a relaxed feel that is warm and inviting with touchable finishes. From wood accent mirrors to earthy textured lighting, going organic has moved away from a hippie aesthetic to a refined tactile experience.

Organic decor looks beautiful when paired with mid-century furniture or other natural materials such as the brick fireplace above.

I’m a huge fan of peppering a home with wood and rattan. It’s a hip way to add texture without a space becoming too southwestern in feel. Hold the chili pepper lights, please!

Organic Inspiration is a design trend that's found everywhere, and gaining in popularity - for good reason. It's livable and adaptable - for example, organic furnishings can be incorporated into totally modern interiors. Notice how chic the gnarled tree table looks with contemporary lights and furniture? Divine. 

Shopping List: 1. Jamie Young Large Natural Jute Urn 2. Uttermost Vermundo Circular Wood Wall Mirror 3. Organic Contemporary Rattan Ceiling Fixture 4. Carroll Wood Table II 5. Kenroy Home Russo Marble Table Lamp 6. Arizona GC-05 Beige-Brown Area Rug

Photos: The Brick House.

The lighting in a room can set the mood for the entire space. It can make a big difference if you choose dark and moody light fixtures and shades versus something bright and cheerful. You can let your lighting be the showstopper of your space or you can let it enhance your furniture and decor. Personally I think lighting is a great way to make a statement and inject personality in your space.

DARK & MOODY: Dramatic and elegant lighting fixtures over the bed is all you need to create a special bedroom mood.

Shopping Guide: 1. Possini Euro Planet Chrome and Black Pendant Chandelier 2. Currey and Company Broxton 24" Wide Bronze Chandelier 3. Uttermost Jelani Table Lamp 4. Flynn Mercury Black Reactive Glass Table Lamp

WHITE & PATTERN: If your space is white with patterns — whether they are in your bedding, wallpaper, or other decor items — choosing a silver, crystal or glass lamp with a white shade will compliment the space.

Shopping Guide: 1. Vienna Full Spectrum Crystal Window Table Lamp 2. Winnie Mirrored Glass Table Lamp 3. Kichler Herringbone Glass Table Lamp 4. Robert Abbey Odelia Clear Glass Table Lamp

SHADES OF BLUE: Wanting to add a pop of color to your space? A solid color lamp base will add that color, but isn't so specific that you can't move it from room to room to set the mood with lighting elsewhere.

Shopping Guide: 1. Monaco Blue Apothecary Table Lamp 2. Hoku Cyan Blue Ceramic Table Lamp 3. Mouth-Blown Aqua Blue Glass Table Lamp 4. Robert Abbey Delta Marine 22 1/2" High Table Lamp

Image credits: Rue Magazine (Anniversary Issue 2011. Styling by Laina Navarro. Design by ID810 Design Group. Photographed by Emily Anderson); Rue Magazine (Holiday Issue 2011. Photography by Emily Anderson. Design by Rachel Reider); Rue Magazine (October/November 2012 Issue. Photography, Styling, and Interior Design by Ore Studios).