Freshome.com - Interior Design & Architecture Inspiration Newsletter

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• Modern Neo-Siheyuan Inspired Home in Japan
• Fun and Original Bed Clothing Inspired by Notebook Paper Sheets
• How to Make your Bedroom Side Table Beautiful
• Practical Reading Furniture Collection with Built-in Storage Space
• Levitating Modern House Deep in the Forest
• How to Buy Leather Furniture for your Home
• Romantic Garden Rearrangement for Outdoor Relaxation
• Bewitching Family Retreat with Fascinating Lake Views in Texas
• How to Choose the Perfect Area Rug for your Dining Room

Modern Neo-Siheyuan Inspired Home in Japan Posted: 09 Nov 2010 06:24 AM PST Suppose Design Office took another road than the usual architectural projects out there with this incredible House in Buzen. The concept revolves around the idea of having every room built like separates structures. The corridor is positioned in such a way that it almost surrounds the house, completely separating every room from the next one: "Paths covered by a glass roof weave between the disconnected structures to create an interior space that feels exterior, a private space that feels public, a hall that feels like an avenue. In that space the children can run around, you can enjoy a breeze while you eat, read under the sun, and fall asleep watching the stars." The 266 square meters building in Fukuoka, Japan resembles a corridor through the family life, giving each inhabitant their own space but making sure they always meet in the middle, under the sun and the glass canopy. Children can play while taking part of nature and its natural changing features. All the individual cubes that form the home – walk in closet, bathroom, main bedroom, living room, kitchen/dining room and two more bedrooms –are dressed in an amazing shade of wood that once again connects to nature. This design reminds us of the Chinese Neo-Siheyuan style, a modern version of old houses made from compartments revamped as villas. The House in Buzen is an amazing tribute to architectural history. Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Modern White Sea House Rooftecture in Japan Fiery on the outside: Modern home from Bates Masi Architects Space Oddysey Inspired Apartment by Romolo Stanco Inspiring Modern Home Architecture Retro Inspired Chairs Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

Fun and Original Bed Clothing Inspired by Notebook Paper Sheets Posted: 09 Nov 2010 05:07 AM PST Here’s an idea for all of you out there who have nostalgia for old and classic school lessons. These crazy bed sheets are truly original and could really appeal to the ones who have not lost the passion for writing by hand. The set features a blue&red line pattern on a dark beige background, perfectly reproducing a notebook sheet. “Too real”, some may reply. This bed clothing set may have an acceptance issue with small children who see enough of the obsessing pattern at school to want to have anything more with it during the night. On the other hand, some adults may get a kick out of sleeping in these type of sheets. We find them quite appealing, even if the material does not look all that “fluffy”. Would you cuddle up in these bed sheets?- via Etsy Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Cool Modular Shelving Inspired by Paper Sheets Hot Chick Sheets – Inspiration for your bed Paper Bag Vase Sweet Dreams with Reality Bedding Sexy Sheets Sheets With Complementary Thrown in Clothes Make Your Bed Look Like the Sidewalk Pavement with Le-Trottoir Sheets Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

How to Make your Bedroom Side Table Beautiful Posted: 09 Nov 2010 03:57 AM PST Your current bedroom side table probably houses a lamp, an alarm clock and your night time glass of water. Have you ever thought of how to beautify your side table to compliment the bedroom décor? Your side tables can be matching or not, minimal or robust. Some prefer side tables that hold their collectibles, while some see it as a place to house a beautiful piece of décor. Whichever is your style, here are tips for making your bedroom side table beautiful. Choose the role of your side table: Your bed is usually the focal point of your bedroom. Decide how you use your side table (s). Do you only use them to hold a lamp, or do you keep books and important 'arms length' supplies at your bed side too? If you just want it for decoration, then choose one that fits with the décor and compliments the style of your bed. If you want it for function too, assess how much should be housed here and what can go on a bookshelf, cabinet or other storage area. Accentuate your side table with décor: If you prefer to use your side table for display, choose décor that won't hinder your sleeping. For example an expensive vase on a side table in a home that has two large dogs that sleep in the bed every night is not a good idea. You may opt for wall sconces that hang from either side of the bed as your décor, and keep the side table for the alarm clock and a family photo. Determine how your bedroom will benefit from the addition or sometimes the subtraction of one bed side table. How many bed side tables do you need: In a perfect world of huge bedrooms, two large bed side tables are ideal.  In the real world where bedrooms are smaller than we'd like, it may be more feasible for only one side table to adorn your bedside. Remember, side tables don't have to match. Consider using different heights or even different types of side tables. If you can unite them together with a common theme, like matching lamps, then the actual tables will flow effortlessly in with the décor. Beautify with storage: To make your side table beautiful and add storage consider choosing one with drawers and/or shelving.  These are perfect for storing a few books, reading glasses and the remote controls. If you prefer to have all of your storage hidden, consider using under bed storage along with your bed side tables. From rolling plastic sweater bins that fit under your bed to gorgeous baskets, under bed storage is often forgotten.  This will free up your side table for only holding and displaying what it needs. Bed side tables are the balancing feature of the bed and they make your bedroom a complete concept.  Whether you choose to use yours for function and/or décor, the side table can do it effortlessly. For the holidays add seasonal touches to your tables to bring festivity into the bedroom. Don't neglect your side table, they are the forgotten gem in the bedroom that can make it shine! Freshome reader’s tell us about your bedroom side tables. Do you use the traditional ones, or use other items – like a stack of books as your side table? Leave us your comments below. Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! White Side Table – Max Servetto Bedroom Inspiration #5 Hive Side Table by Chris Kabatsi from Arktura Clock Side Table Retro Contemporary Coffee Table by Calligaris Too Peace Table Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

Practical Reading Furniture Collection with Built-in Storage Space Posted: 09 Nov 2010 01:49 AM PST We’ve seen more and more designs lately concentrating on offering a perfect reading experience. From reading corners to small accessories that help the user achieve a high level of relaxation, it is really nice to see that efforts are being made to serve this “intellectual” aim. Today we would like to showcase an interesting looking reading furniture collection which features built-in storage space. The original set was created by Remy van Oers in association with Coolen/AttrackZ and was presented at Dutch Design Week. It consists of three items: the Reading Chair, Lamp and Table. When they are placed together, they create a cozy and functional learning retreat. The built in storage space makes it possible for the user to hold all his books near by and access them easily, while the lamp emits a light that is perfect for reading. -via DigsDigs Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! An Elegant Storing Solution : Original Built In Wardrobe The Cave – Bookcase with a Reading Space Diaz Collection, Bed Design Ideas from Italians at Prealpi Sports Furniture, a Solution for a Small Gym in Your Home Practical Wooden Home Desk with Extra Storage for Files Lotto Coffee Table with Hidden Storage Space Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

Levitating Modern House Deep in the Forest Posted: 08 Nov 2010 11:40 PM PST The Tellada House seems to be levitating at a first glance. This is actually a visual illusion – the house maintains the slope of the land, while blending in with the natural environment, with trees that bring shade and comfort. Eco-friendly features earned it the prize from Juan de Vega Foundation. The Spanish designers from Rosales and Crecente Architects created this home in the forest from wood, the basic material for the exterior of the house, as well as the surrounding area. Placed in a small forest of oak, birch and chestnut trees, the Tellada House surprises with its modern appearance that amazingly fits right in. The interior features lighter colour wood, which brightens up all the rooms. Large windows make the connection between the inside and the outside, creating an open visual space that continues well into the forest, as far as the eye can see. A beautiful interior garden breaks the rustic feeling seen from outside. Warm colours light up the study room and a wooden sliding door transforms the open space into separate rooms. The simple, clean lines of the kitchen accentuate any details – like, for example, the cheerful dishes. Perfectly blended with the colours of the nature in autumn, this home gives a rustic vibe although it has a contemporary architectural design. – Photos: Santos-Diez Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Re-cycled and Low-impact Architecture : Preparatory School in UK Modern House in Tempe, Arizona Jessica Helgerson Remodelling a Modern Ranch Mushroom Forest Table Modern Jodlowa House in Krakow, Poland Beautiful House Surrounded by Forest and Lush Landscape Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

How to Buy Leather Furniture for your Home Posted: 08 Nov 2010 11:26 AM PST When choosing furniture you would like to know that what you buy will last and be quality made. Leather furniture comes in different varieties, styles, and qualities. Many imitations or faux leather is also made. Depending on your budget and lifestyle you can determine what type of leather furniture is best for your home. Here are tips for buying the right leather furniture for your home. What is your family lifestyle: The beauty of authentic leather is that it's a natural material that will get better with age. It will develop a 'patina' or a rich color and luster over years. If you have pets, kids, and a busy household, leather furniture can take normal wear and tear. Although, pet claws and certain markers and pens will ruin leather.  For families that aren't as busy, faux leather furniture is a good option for cost, and wear and tear may not be as big of a concern. Choose a style: Leather furniture comes in a variety of styles to match your décor. Slim lined, minimalistic leather furniture fits a modern décor while large pillowed sectionals lend themselves to more traditional home décor.  Leather furniture will last for years into the future, so choose a style that will reflect your home's decorative touch and tone. Understand leather qualities: Leather has natural imperfections, such as discoloration, veins and uneven surface pattern. When buying leather furniture keep this in mind that it is not a defect and rather a quality of the leather. When buying pieces of furniture try to buy them all at one time. If you order at different times they can have drastic color variations and won't look good when paired together. Know how to care for leather: Leather needs to have moisture and care on a routine basis. If leather isn't cared for correctly it can lead to cracking, peeling and lead to a breakdown of the leather. When buying leather furniture, moisturizer usually is given with it along with care and clean instructions are also given. Before purchasing, decide if you will be able to keep up with the care. Buy furniture from a reputable source: When purchasing leather furniture, ensure your source is a reputable furniture manufacturer. Often times the source can use a combination of vinyl and leather. Since vinyl is a man-made product it will most likely age faster than the leather causing your furniture to lose its appeal over time.  When you buy leather there should be paperwork or authenticity care for instructions along with the furniture. When purchasing leather furniture ensure that you are on board for the reality of caring for it. Leather is a gorgeous material and when used in furniture, can bring your home years of comfort and beauty. Consider purchasing leather sofas that have zipper leather covers. This will ensure that you can replace the cushion at a later time, and not the whole sofa! Ask your furniture store if they have leather guidelines and instructions before you buy to help make your decision an informed one. Freshome reader's what do you think of leather furniture?  If you own it yourself, what factors should others consider before buying? We'd love to hear your comments! Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Lama Leather Chair How to Take Care of Leather Furniture Italian Furniture: Modern Leather Round Beds by Prealpi Low Profile Beds with Adjustable Headboard to Fit Your Needs King Queen Sleigh Faux Leather Bed Leather Furniture from Timeless Design Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

Romantic Garden Rearrangement for Outdoor Relaxation Posted: 08 Nov 2010 10:08 AM PST Have you ever thought what it would be like to redesign your garden and turn parts of it into original living spaces? Here is a creative garden rearrangement from Jamie Durie that fits this profile. Moreover, this unusual makeover looks extremely inviting. The amazing combination of rustic elements such as wood, leaves and twigs together with the comfortable bed, playful pillows and alluring dining table creates a genuine feeling of freedom. Relaxation comes naturally in this type of uncommon gazebo and so do pleasant conversations between family and friends. This is the perfect place to enjoy a good book, drink coffee in the morning and rest, rest, rest. The miniature pond filled with leaves next to the “hammock” serves as a soothing addition for this unworldly “micro climate” and entices the craving for meditation. Feel like taking the afternoon off for some gardening?- via Anythinginside Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Zen Garden Test Tube Vases Garden Furniture by Patricia Urquiola Garden Design by Andy Sturgeon Lights and Lumiers For The Perfect Designer Garden Pierantonio Bonacina's Wiry Modular Garden Furniture Miniature Zen Garden Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

Bewitching Family Retreat with Fascinating Lake Views in Texas Posted: 08 Nov 2010 09:00 AM PST Lake Travis Retreat was designed by Dick Clark Architecture and is located on the shores of the reservoir with the same name in Texas, USA. The project was developed for a growing family who is likely to take regular visits from friends and extended family during the week-ends. The lake and  beautiful oak trees were the main factors in elaborating the house plans. There is a generous terrace overlooking the lake, a perfect place for pleasant conversations or romantic dancing. Large, transparent sliding doors ensure great views of the lake from inside the residence. The home consists of two distinct areas, the public and private spaces: the bedrooms are located in the west wing while the social activities are held in the kitchen or the two main courtyards, inspired by Japanese outdoor design. The family’s love for water was greeted by a large pool and a jacuzzi large enough to accommodate up to twelve people with stunning views of the lake. We really appreciate the diversity of this home and consider it a way to escape the urban jungle with style. How do you find it? Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! Contemporary Floating Home in Seattle Floating House in Ontario, Canada Mixture of Eastern and Western Traditions : Texas Hill Road Residence Timber Home Design by Sturgess Architecture Modern Cottage on West Lake Okoboji Shoreline Farquar Lake Residence, a Wooden Architecture Wonder Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

How to Choose the Perfect Area Rug for your Dining Room Posted: 08 Nov 2010 07:35 AM PST The dining room seems to be where all the entertaining happens. Whether it is for the immediate family, holiday dinners or intimate romantic dinners, the dining room is a special room.  When decorating your dining room, we often forget about the flooring and the area rug that goes under the table. Believe it or not, the perfect area rug can make your room feel casual or formal, just by changing the rug.  Here are tips for choosing the right one for your home. Assess the size of your dining room: Your dining room size will dictate how large of an area rug you should use. Large dining rooms may need to utilize two or more area rugs based on multiple seating areas and tables.  For smaller dining rooms consider using one that is larger than your dining room table, but smaller than the perimeter of the room. For those that have hardwood flooring, a border of the contrasting resilient flooring makes a nice contrast. What's the shape of your dining room: While most would think a rectangular carpet should go in a rectangular room, there are often exceptions. Area rugs can take their cues from the space as well as the shape of the table that covers it. It is often a play on form and color when choosing the area rug. Decide what feels and looks right to you. Your dining room is your design preference and trends and design can be followed or broken! Choose a pattern or not: In some dining rooms the area rug serves as a floor covering that feels good underfoot and is meant for function and not décor. While other dining rooms keep a simple table and chairs, and then have the area rug take command of the room.  If you choose the more bold approach, choose a few colors from the carpet and bring them into the wall color and fabrics of the room. This will unite the room and keep it from looking too busy for the eye. Defining a space: If you have an open area dining room that shares a space with a living room or kitchen area, an area rug will help you define the dining room without using walls. Choose a rug that uses colors from adjoining spaces but still defines the space. Therefore a mixture of neutrals from the surrounding rooms with a punch of an accent color to match the dining room chairs would be perfect. Family lifestyle will help you decide: If you have a formal and casual dining space, you may be able to keep a formal area rug in the space where dropped food from kids will not be a problem. While if you live in a household that only has one dedicated dining room, choose area rugs with low pile and that can disguise stains.  A thick pile, white area rug may not suit your lifestyle with pets, kids, and heavy traffic! Enhance your dining room with the addition of an area rug. From simple to bold, the colors and shape you choose are up to you and your home's decorative style. If possible, buy your area rug when you buy your dining room table. This will help you when the color matching and decision time comes. If you buy separate, try to keep the dining room set and carpet neutral so it is not hard to match your hot pink dining room set! Freshome readers tell us how you chose your area rug for your dining room. Do you have bold or simple? Ready for more amazing design ideas? Check below ! The Mismatched Dining Room : Tips for creating a well-balanced mismatched style Kitchen and Living-Room Combined. A Few Fun Solutions 11 Inspiring Dining Room Designs From Hulsta Interesting Expansible Coffee Tables Japanese Dining Room Furniture for a Minimalist Japanese Style How to Choose the Perfect Bed for your Guest Room Click here to connect with Freshome on or on

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