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How to combine patterns in home decor

5/9/2021

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Adding patterns to your home decor can bring a room from bland and boring to the next level. What is the next level for you? That will depend on your style and the feelings you want your room to evoke. (For a quick review on Style vs Feel, see this older post on my blog - Click here.)

Patterns add visual texture, sometimes with true texture and most often with a flat image in two or more colors. The pattern can come in the form of fabric, paper, wood, and all kinds of other media you find in furnishings, art, window coverings, flooring, etc.

​One option to tie patterns together is to choose a common color from within a multi-color pattern.  For example, by starting out with this multi-color image from Designer Thibaut Imperial Dragon Wallpaper, I chose to pull out the blue in the wallpaper and pulled together a small scale print and a large scale stripe to complement the busy Imperial Dragon design. Changing the scale is key to achieving pattern balance. 
Etsy wallpaper
Imperial Dragon Thibaut Wallpaper
wallpaper
Another option that can give a calming effect is to use patterns with the same color scheme and keep the scale small so that nothing pops out at you on its own.
serena and lily
grass cloth wallpaper
Often times you will find you need to work with a pattern that is difficult or cost prohibitive to remove, such as existing flooring. Using different textures will add visual pattern. This rustic flooring is complemented with a similarly rustic wall treatment shown with the brass banded glass vases which adds a smoothness balancing the look. Toss in a textured throw and pillows to provide inviting comfort with a nod to the original rustic look. The smoothness of a brushed leather sofa transitions rustic to elegance. I love this look. Don't you?
natural elm flooring
brushed leather sofa
brass banded glass vase
throw pillow
Thibaut “Enchantment” in navy blue and white pillow covers
throw from houzz
It is important to have a focal point in a room, but you also want the rest of your space to appear interesting and inviting. Repeating patterns around a room will keep your eye moving around the space. ​
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There are several repeated patterns in this space. The curvature of the sofa is repeated in the coffee and dining tables, the rug, and the lighting. There are short lines repeated in the wallpaper, pillows, and drapery, as well as long flowing lines repeated in the wood flooring, the verticality of the drapery, and the dining area rug.
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Stripes and colors are repeated in this playful living room.
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This is a great example of mixing traditional elegance with modern art. The fabrics vary from solids and stripes to organic blue and white imagery. The jars and bowl repeat the organic imagery and the jar shape is repeated in the lamp. The smooth surfaces of the tables add tactile appeal. The crisp lines of the piping on the upholstery complement the lines in the artwork above the sofa and the striped material in the sofa. It all works!
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Another quick check in with R.O.Y. G. B.I.V. - Yellow!

5/8/2021

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Yellow is a color that provokes conversation, invites you into a space with positivity, and brightens the day!

Used as an accent brings light. Spread in small amounts in an otherwise moody space brings balance.
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Paired with deep tones of blue, green, or black and white adds drama.

Finally, an explosion of yellow in monochromatic shades warms the space.

#autumnlightinteriors #colorstudy #yellowdecor
See Red and Orange at these links: 

https://autumnlightinteriors.weebly.com/blog/color-exploration-with-roy-g-biv-lets-start-with-red
​https://autumnlightinteriors.weebly.com/blog/continuing-to-explore-color-with-roy-g-biv-today-orange

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The art of hanging pictures

4/10/2021

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How high? What size frames? What size matting? How do you group them? What techniques can you use to ensure a minimal swiss cheese affect on your walls?

Let's start with some basic guidelines on how to position your art or framed photos.
  • Hang the frames so that the middle point is 57 inches from the floor.  That recommendation comes from gallery professionals.
  • If you have a collage of pictures to hang, consider the collage as a whole and set the center of the collage at 57 inches.
The art of hanging pictures
Now let's smash those guidelines to pieces! Okay, maybe not smash, but let's consider some times when you may want to stray from gallery rules. If you have a space for children, some art can certainly be brought down to a level where they can enjoy it. Or let's say you want to hang some pictures above a headboard that is 57 inches tall. Consider other items in the room like door frames, or shelving. You may be able to consider the difference between the top of the headboard and the top of the door frame as the center point to use for your new center measurement. If your ceilings are not that high the art can be centered between the ceiling and the item above which you are hanging your pictures. ​
hanging art for children
hanging art over a bed or headboard
Aligning art on the wall
What size should your picture frame(s) be? For drama - as large as you can afford. For collages, you can either vary the sizes of individual frames for added interest or keep the frame size consistent and limit the number to at least 3 but no more than 9 for a more formal, classic look. You can mat your pictures with a standard 3 inch border (put a 5x7 picture in an 8x10 frame, for example). If you have great photos that you don't want to blow up larger or can't due to pixilation, have a frame shop custom cut some matting that will allow you to use much larger frames with your smaller pictures..
hanging art for a dramatic effect
hanging art in same size frames
oversize matting for small pictures
hanging art in varying size frames
If you have more than a few pieces of art or photos to display, grouping them can help you keep your walls from looking cluttered. Think of the space you have for your collage as a large shape within which to arrange your pictures whether that be a square or rectangle. You can play with your designs by arranging the frames on the floor or other large surface. Try aligning the outside edges to form a rectangle within a rectangle (or square within a square). For a long horizontal display, centering varying size frames along one horizontal line and attempting to use the same size frames on each end and in the middle will help give the collage a balanced look. If you have a couple of rows of different size frames, align the bottoms of the top row with the tops of the bottom row to bring your eye pleasingly along the length of the grouping.. Are you arranging pictures along a stairwell? Align the bottom corner of each frame the same distance from the handrail to give a diagonal line that follows along as you go up or down. 
gallery layout for pictures and art
hanging art in a stairwell
Horizontal picture layout with varying size frames
Horizontal picture layout with same size frames
Here are a few recommendations to help keep you from creating multiple nail holes in your walls.
  • The first is to find the right hardware for hanging pictures. I recently found this item called a Beehive PIcture Hanger. When your nail ends up being just a bit off, this will allow you to just move the picture without the hassle of remeasuring and nailing again!
  • You can use those 3M Command Strips, but be sure to note the weight for which they are intended so your precious photos don't come crashing down.
  • Here is a link to a quick video with 5 tips for hanging pictures.
I hope this helps give you confidence to hang your art and/or photos of loved ones. Our spaces are meant to house the things we love and those things are meant to be seen and enjoyed. Have fun and, as usual, let me know how it goes!
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Continuing to explore color with Roy G Biv today - Orange!

3/19/2021

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Just a quick post today brought to you by the color Orange!
What's more organic than oranges? Orange might not be the color for everyone, but it sure brings energy and warmth when added to your home whether inside or out. It works well with mid-century modern styling and transitional spaces.
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If you would like links to these items, let me know.
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Let nature guide you on your furniture selections

3/13/2021

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As the cold begins to subside here in Wisconsin and Spring takes over, we see Mother Nature offering inspiration for organic choices in interior design. Watch the slide show for each nature pic to see some fun selections I found google-ing around! (Click 'Play' on the larger pictures and give it a few seconds.)
I'm loving the cloud sofa. Velvet fabric is more durable these days, but be sure it is rated as a heavy duty upholstery grade fabric before you purchase.
The star table is surprisingly from Walmart.com. Decorative knobs can be found in so many places. The one pictured is cute as a button. You can find many options at places like At Home and Cost Plus World Market.  This Wayfair link gives some info on how to measure when replacing drawer and cabinet pulls.
Remember those vintage mushroom lamps? The tables and pendant lights shown are actually made from mushrooms. How organic does this get?
These furniture pieces are definitely inspired by the moon and make me happy. Is it the moon controlling my mood, or just creative furnishings giving me a lift? I think the latter. 
From pine needle designs on a credenza and a gold stamp box to basketry made painstakingly from pine needles, these furnishings and accessories are worth considering in your nature inspired decor.
I've become an orchid fan since I received these from my husband on Valentines day and they are still growing strong without fuss. Isn't that wall mural absolutely stunning? Go bold or go home or both!
​Happy Spring days ahead to everyone!
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Color exploration with Roy G Biv - Let's start with Red!

2/26/2021

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Just a quick post today brought to you by the color Red!
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Roy G Biv - The colors of a rainbow (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet). I feel like exploring the color red today.  Red can invoke anger, but I think the furnishings shown in this post evoke a feeling of warmth and love, not anger.  My apologies if this color is only anger for you, as I'm aware it can be for some.  (If that's you, please check back to see my future posts as I intend to explore all of Roy G Biv over time!)

All these items can be found on Wayfair.com and if you click on one of the links below and purchase it, I may receive a commission.  It won't cost you anything extra to click or buy!
'My First Set of Wheels' by Clayton Rabo Painting Print on Canvas Harriet Bee Size: 12" H x 12" W x 1.5" D
Wimbley Curtain Tieback Red Barrel Studio� Finish: Red
Brick Peel and Stick Wallpaper Tile Simple Shapes Color: Red, Size: 4' x 24"
Burwood 117" Wide Right Hand Facing Sofa & Chaise Red Barrel Studio� Body Fabric: Due Red, Throw Pillow Fabric 1: Due Red, Throw Pillow Fabric 2: Due
Fitzpatrick Oriental Red/Multi Area Rug Bloomsbury Market Rug Size: Square 6'7"
Zehr Floor Vase Bloomsbury Market Color: Mahogany Red
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Are you getting a good night sleep?

2/7/2021

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Most of us are going through life transitions for many different (and for some the same) reasons. COVID, of course, continues to be a wild card in all our lives.  For others, you may be contemplating retirement, or forced into it! Relationship changes, be it spousal, friends, or other family members are inevitable as we age and move through life phases (leaving home, coming back, needing more space, needing less, adding to your household as parents age or even as you bring in a new pet as a loyal, friendly companion. The clock ticks and changes happen. Are you losing sleep over the changes in your life? Let's chat about some ways to help you sleep better.
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Our cat, Woodstock. No sleep problems for her!
Your environment for sleeping MUST be conducive to getting a good night rest. How do you make that happen? Don't underestimate the details: great bedding, clean air, bedtime rituals, your health - in no order of importance! It may take a bit of change in all these areas to help you sleep more soundly. Everyone needs differing amounts of sleep to ensure they have energy and a positive attitude to tackle their day. If you are under the age of 14, you need a lot!  The rest of us need about 8. This is according to the National Sleep Foundation.
How do you help yourself get the required amount of sleep you need? Let's start with bedding material. This is a chart with an overview of the quality of various materials used in bedding by Prudentreviews.com. Click on it to see all the pros and cons to help you choose the right bedding for you.
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Another thing to consider is the quality of the air in your home, especially where you sleep. Consumer reports has an article that can help you decide if an air purifier is for you.
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Aromatherapy, the practice of using scents for medicinal purposes, is shown to promote deeper sleep and reduce fatigue. Fragrancex has an article on 15 scents to help you sleep better.
What do you do an hour or two before you go to bed? It can make a big difference to the quality of sleep and the quickness with which you get there. Helpguide.org has some insights and a list of several actions you can take to improve your chances of a good night sleep.
Finally, your health plays a big role in how much sleep you get and its quality. You know this, of course. All the above ideas can help, but if you are not healthy it could be an uphill battle. When you can do things that are in your control, don't hesitate. This is definitely not an exhaustive list of things to consider:
  • Snoring - See this article by the National Sleep Foundation - https://www.sleepfoundation.org/snoring
  • Overweight - There's so much to google on this. I'm working on the Bright Line Eating plan, personally. Get your doctor's approval for any diet plan.
  • Adding supplements - The Mayo Clinic has some precautions regarding supplements, but this article may help: 
                        https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/sleep-aids/art-20047860
I wish you a healthy sleep tonight and every night! 
Add a comment if you have a sure-fire way to help you get to sleep.

Affiliate Link:
Brooklyn Bedding Collection
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Shop the Look from my little library/lounge!

12/30/2020

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This transitional style library nook is tucked in what may have been a formal dining room that was neglected since the homeowner had preferred another area for more casual dining.  The need to get away and have a quiet place to read or an additional TV viewing area was met by installing custom bookshelves and adding in very comfy seating, good lighting, and a place to put up your feet.  (Note this is a rendering using a zoom backdrop curated by Clive Christian Furniture and Hatchards.)
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For this post, I wanted you to be able to pull together a look that is all your own. I have suggested pieces in the affiliate links below that if clicked and/or purchased, I may receive a commission on with no additional cost to you.  Have fun putting together a look that makes you want to dive into that new book or movie you've been waiting to tackle. At the bottom of this post, I'll show you my choices from these items that I would put together for a specific look.

Area Rugs

Shop Ruggable and save 10% off with code AFF10

End Tables

Send me your email address and I'll send you a code to get 5% off on Houzz merchandise!

Floor Lamps


Ottomans


Lounge Chairs


Oh, so many choices! Depending on your style, any combination of these items (and the great wide internet!) will get you your dream library lounge. If you want to go custom on furnishings and upholstery, there are even more choices. Given the limitations of the items above, here are two styles put together with choices from those items.
Contemporary
Traditional
Skipping the ottoman on this style since I chose the recliner.
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Shop the look - Interior Design Trend for 2021

12/28/2020

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I believe the trend for 2021 is toward a lifestyle that is hopeful, peaceful, and healthful. Our home decor will include soft textures, natural colors, unique lighting and sustainable materials. If you like the items shown in my first mood board for 2021, you can shop for them by clicking on the pictures below.  Happy New Year!
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Wilson Pendant
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Signature Design by Ashley, Sweed Valley Pouf, Comfortable Pouf & Ottoman
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Milo Sofa
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Asulf Tree Sculpture Everly Quinn
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Catriona Chair
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Sandefur Pedestal Coffee Table
If there are items not individually listed that you are interested in, please contact me at autumnlightinteriors@gmail.com and reference this blog post. 

Affiliate Link:
shop designer rugs now - save %25 on your first purchase
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Last Minute DIY Holiday Decor

12/12/2020

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I hate to admit it, but I'm a bit late on holiday decorating this year, so I put together some ideas to quickly add a splash of cheer. They are homemade, but don't take a lot of time or resources.
Metallic Spray Paint is your friend!
Do you have some old knick-knacks hiding away in a closet, some inexpensive wood or plastic toy trains (ask your kids for permission, please!), a tree or shrub with interesting small branches you can cut and bring inside, unused perfume bottles, or any other interestingly shaped objects?  No? Your nearest thrift store may have the perfect ugly duckling to turn into a swan. Try to collect a few items that make up a theme - animals, vases, transportation, etc. Get some gold spray paint or gold glitter paint (or both) and start spraying those objects...some with gold, some with glitter. Turn a few objects into a collection and display them together on your mantle, table, or bookshelf. A few small items sitting in the middle of some greenery (wreath or garland), will give you an unexpected pop of sparkle.
Holiday Decor
www.hisugarplum.com
Not liking the idea of spraying non-holiday shapes? A hobby or craft store has options like cardboard or wooden letters. Spell out HOPE, LOVE, PEACE, whatever message you prefer and spray paint those.  Or grab up some small wreaths.  These can be made of fake greenery, twigs, or other non-porous material.  Spray, spray, spray and hang a few with some red velvet ribbon.  Imagine these wreaths sprayed gold!
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https://www.digsdigs.com/76-inspiring-scandinavian-christmas-decorating-ideas/
Bandana/Napkin Mantle Scarf
  • Materials to gather: Several bandanas or napkins, wide ribbon, double stick tape, safety pins (or needle and thread), ornaments or tassels.
  • Step one: Cut the ribbon to the length of your mantle. 
  • Step two: Fold your bandanas or napkins like this picture -​​
Mantle decor
  • Step three:  Sew or pin an ornament or tassel to the pointy end that is longest.
  • Step four:  Tape double stick tape along the length of the ribbon on the pretty side. 
  • Step five:  Lay the bandana along the double stick tape where the black line is drawn in the picture above.  (The bandana is shown with the right side up.  You will lay it down on the tape keeping the right side up. The line is just there to show you the alignment.) If you want (or need) to further ensure the bandana stays put, either sew, pin, or replace the double stick tape with double stick Velcro.
Lay your newly made mantle scarf on top of the mantel. Here is one I found on Etsy.com:
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Less messy and labor intensive ideas - we like those!
  • Fill a basket or bowl with ornaments and/or pinecones.
  • Get small mirrors from a hobby or craft store and display candles upon them.
  • Gift wrap various sized Kleenex boxes and display on a table.
Basket Decor
wrapped kleenex

To my family and friends -
​Have a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year!

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    Photo by Miriam Bulcher Photography

    Meet Your Designer

    I, Brenda Szarek, am the founder of Autumn Light Interiors. I have immersed myself in home design and problem solving for years and have creative solutions for all kinds of interior design dilemmas. I hope you enjoy my tips, tricks, trends, and inspiration to help you find your way to a well-designed, comfortable, and functional home you can be excited to live in and welcome others within.

    Let's get your project started!

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