Inspired Design

Iris Interiors LLC


5 Comments

Guest Post: Channel Spring in Your Design

Today we have a guest post from Charley of The Furniture Market, a UK retailer specializing in oak, French, mirrored, and modern furniture. Enjoy these tips for creating a spring-inspired space. And yes I had to look up what a Haberdashery is! (:

Despite what felt like a never ending winter for many, spring is finally here. It’s a time of rejuvenation and spring cleaning – the perfect opportunity to give your home a breath of fresh air. Plus, the spring look is a huge trend that comes back year after year; it’s a classic. Here are for some ideas for incorporating the season into your decor:

Light and color

Nature Inspired Interior Design.

The trademark of the spring look is and always will be a light and airy room with a carefully thought out choice of color. There’s two ways to infuse this feel with color, the first is to opt for pretty pastel tones – baby blues, candy pinks, chalky greens, and sherbet lemon yellows.

Or if you’d prefer to make a bolder statement in your living space, go for dazzling off-white walls complemented by a splash of bright color. When choosing your statement color it’s best to stick to the natural hues associated with warm weather – yellows and greens are a great choice.

Think French

French chair

The spring look is all about femininity and nothing says feminine like French furniture. The pronounced curves and traditionally white finishes make for a prefect way to tie into the trend. Mirrors are also a great choice, not only do they reflect light to keep your home looking nice and bright, they also help you create that airy feel by creating the illusion of more space. The Furniture Market offers some great French furniture pieces and mirrors to help you achieve this look.

Get chintzy

Flower ornament

A spring home or room just isn’t complete without florals – integrate them into your room with soft furnishings, such as cushions, curtains and throws, or even ornaments. Cath Kidson prints are an obvious choice but can be a little pricey, so why not get adventurous and have a bash making your own pieces? Haberdasheries (craft or fabric stores) usually have a large selection of patterned textiles to choose from and online you can find a whole host of tutorials on how to make every day homeware items and soft furnishings such as laundry bags and cushions.

Bring in the great outdoors

Yes, literally. There are some beautiful bulbs and flowers to be had at this time of year, so bring them into your home to add those finishing touches. Hyacinths, Narcissi, Crocuses, Snowdrops and Bluebells are all great choices and can often be found beautifully presented at florists, as well as your larger supermarkets and a low cost – or you could grow your own!

How do you welcome spring in your home?


7 Comments

Pampered Pets: No Need to Sacrifice Style

I love having a beautiful home as much as I love my many (adopted) pets, even though sometimes it seems as if these two priorities don’t mix. For example, when the cats agree that the sofa makes for the best scratching post or one of my dogs decides that the only acceptable place to have an “accident” is on the Oriental rug, as opposed to the surrounding hardwood and tile floors.

While my pets certainly don’t care about aesthetics, they do like to be pampered and I love to incorporate some plush pet furniture and unique accessories into my decor. Arcadian Home is currently featuring my “Pampered Pet’s Collection” on their website, so feel free to check out the sale!

Here are some of my favorite items and a few inspirational photos to create a pet-friendly design:

Show your love for your furry friends through artwork that complements your style.

eclectic gallery wall

Available via Arcadian Home.

Add a splash of color with bright prints.

Reclaim your own bed by adding a complementary pet bed nearby. Find one that plays into your design scheme.

Designer pet bed sale

Available at Arcadian Home.

This would be the perfect addition to a traditional space.

Avoid spills and mess with an out-of-the-way pet feeding station.

Pet Sale

Available at Arcadian Home.

Store dog food in vintage-style tins for an even more organized feeding nook.

Artwork sculpture

Photo via Vogue.com.

An animal statue gives an art collection dimension.

Pet artwork sale

Available at Arcadian Home.

A chic, yet unexpected accessory.

Dog nursery

Photo via Home Workshop.

Bring your love of pets into the nursery with an animal theme.

Children's lamp sale

Available at Arcadian Home.

This whimsical dog lamp would fit right in.

How do you keep your home pet-friendly or show your animal-loving side? For more ideas, be sure to check out our Pampered Pets Sale.


6 Comments

Outdoor Spaces

Need more space in your home? Focus on your backyard. Outdoor areas have become an extra room and the line between indoor and outdoor design is less defined. Furnishings that were once relegated to the interior, are making their way outside. Even city dwellers have come up with creative ways to enjoy fresh air in style. In need of some inspiration? Look no further:

This is one of the best outdoor living spaces I’ve stumbled upon. The woodsy retreat features a patio among the trees, a huge modern stone fireplace, chic black furniture, and garden stools that provide a splash of color. I could envision myself lounging here on every single sunny day.

A perfect combination of purple and tangerine. The eclectic Chicago rooftop garden is set up for relaxing or entertaining. Durable outdoor upholstery really allows you to channel your favorite indoor design elements.

Romantic outdoor space

Photo via Copper and Vine.

Rich neutrals, texture, and lighting create a romantic ambiance. The wrap around porch has plenty of seating and I love the addition of the cozy bench.

Small balcony ideas

Photo via Sanctuary Decor.

This tiny balcony nook proves that you don’t need a sprawling backyard or a rooftop for an outdoor oasis.

outdoor reading nook

Photo via Desde My Ventana.

DIY idea? Fashion your own light and airy reading spot. All you need is outdoor cushions, fabric, a rod, and sunshine.

small balcony design

Photo via the Marion House Book.

Another example of a small balcony turned into an inviting sitting area. The ample amount of blankets, pillows, and textures make for a comfortable place to unwind.

Sophisticated pool area

Photo via Vogue.

Tory Burch’s pool area is the epitome of sophistication. The pavilion even houses a dining area.

bohemian hammock

Photo via junegir.com.

Create a plush and dreamy vibe by adding an eclectic mix of pillows and blankets to a hammock.

The Mediterranean-influenced backyard is an extension of a Spanish bungalow. Peach flagstone, funky stairs, lush plants, and a blue tiled pool lend themselves to a cheerful atmosphere.

Deck Makeover

Photo via Home Depot.

Designer Kristin Jackson won Home Depot’s Outdoor Challenge with this re-designed deck. The vibrant space includes a painted floor, dining table, colorful textiles and accessories, modern chairs, and a vintage lantern. Love the unexpected touches.

outdoor space ideas

Photo via BHG.com.

This multifaceted outdoor space has separate areas for swimming, al fresco dining, and enjoying conversation under the shade of a vine-covered pergola.

stunning dock

Photo via Tumblr.com.

If you happen to live in a tropical locale, turn your dock into a swing set! Amazing.

Do you have any plans for creating an outdoor space? Which photos do you like the best?


14 Comments

Iris Interiors’ Online Store is Up and Running!

Shop Iris Interiors

While my blog is normally for exchanging inspirational ideas and connecting with others with similar interests, I’m so excited I just have to add a plug! I am thrilled to announce that my online store has officially been launched! There you will find some of my favorite brands including Go Home, Currey, Uttermost, and Cyan! Check out the store for a collection of furniture, upholstery, lighting, accessories, and everything home decor-related.

Enjoy! (:  Iris


5 Comments

Kitchen Remodeling Season

White Kitchen

Photo via Houzz. Designed by Crisp Architects.

Did you know that summer is the best time to schedule a kitchen remodel? I just recently ran across two excellent articles, covering everything from layout to lighting. Hope you find these tips helpful.

6 Glaring Signs Your Kitchen Needs a Remodel

6 Design Details to Avoid in a Small Kitchen


2 Comments

Exterior Inspiration

Your front door is the first thing people see when they approach your home. A stylish color scheme, with well placed plants, and details such as window boxes, arches, and hardware, will add interest to the exterior of your house and make an excellent first impression. Take advantage of the warm weather and spruce up your outdoor space. Take a peek at some of these inspiring exteriors:

Home Exterior Design

A dark navy door, detailed window, and a magnolia flanking each side looks sophisticated and well proportioned.

exterior architectural elements

Photo via BHG.com.

The arch of the window above the door is echoed in the awning, harmonizing the design elements.

Bold Entrway

Photo via Sadie & Dasie.

This daring fuchsia door is welcoming and cheerful. Potted flowers in a similar shade, matching shutters and accessories, and the little pops of white ensure the entryway stands out.

Front Door Climbers

Photo via Bathwater.

The dramatic climbing plants, mint green door, and hint of yellow peeking out from the upper window, create the perfect mix of color and texture.

Step Tiles

Photo via BHG.com.

A wooden door and neutral tones are spiced up with vibrant step tiles, flowers, and large potted plants. This polished porch is a combination of funky and simple.

Tuscany Villa

Photo via Blue Pueblo.

An entryway in Tuscany, Italy complete with side swept vines, window boxes filled with bright flowers, and a rustic yellow facade. Colorful blooms that complement a design are an easy way to dress up your exterior.

Sophisticated Porch

Photo via Shelterness.

The painted green door, incredible architecture, and green railings look stunning in the city. The large potted plants showcase the entrance.

This colorful, whimsical door was made using Pantone reference panels, creating a unique stained glass effect.

A distressed, patterned purple door incorporates the shades around it. This color-saturated entryway is seriously bold.

Don’t forget about the hardware. It’s an easy way to boost curb appeal. The weathered blue door is a backdrop for intricate, vintage hardware.

Have you seen any amazing doors, either in your own neighborhood or while traveling?

Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 896 other followers