Shop the Look

How to Pull off This Timeless Black & Gold Space

This vignette is modern with a glamorous Old Hollywood twist. Timeless black mixes with gold to add some shine. Crystal accents, like the lamp stands and accessories displayed on the shelves, add texture to the otherwise sleek look. Simple shelves add a place to display whatever you want without overpowering the décor itself. Black leather recliners create a sophisticated space inviting you to rest in style. The little details pull it all together, like the upholstery tacks in the chairs and gold frame on the artwork. The glossy, agate patterned cabinet steals the show and creates a focal point. This space is certainly one you’ll want to recreate. Here’s how.

Shop the Look:

Cabinet

“I Dream of Agate Four-Door Cabinet” from John-Richard. 34”H x 72”W x 18”D. Glass top.

Lamps

Kate Spade “Castle Peak Table Lamp” from Visual Comfort. Lamp height: 38”. Linen shade.

Recliners

“Black Leather Recliner” from Century Furniture. 47”H x 31.50”W x 35.25”D. Black aniline leather.

Shelves

“Modernist Étagère” shelf from John-Richard. 82”H x 18”W x 18”D. Antique brass cubes with glass shelving.

On the Shelves

“Black Box with a Silver Stone” from John-Richard. 5”H x 12”W x 7”D.

“Selenite Sprite” sculpture from John-Richard. Various sizes.

“Celestite Hoop” from John-Richard. Various sizes. Oval hoop with celestite crystal.

Stop by our showroom, where our designers will be happy to show you exactly how to take this look home.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Photos: Michaela Satterfield

Spanish Colonial Interior Design

How to Incorporate This Style in Your Home

Photo: https://pixabay.com/photos/architecture-houses-homes-2608240/

The Spanish Colonial interior design style is influenced by a rich past. Dark woods, intricate details and plenty of stone give this style depth. It was originally brought to America by the Spanish from the 1600s to 1800s. Popular in California, you may find this style featured in the homes of movie stars. Interested in bringing this timeless style to your home?

5 Trademarks of Spanish Colonial Interior Design:

Stucco Walls

Stucco walls, in white or cream, are popular in Spanish Colonial homes. Other popular choices include adobe brick or stone. These materials were traditionally chosen in order to keep Spanish homes cool. The light walls help break up the other dark features which are popular in this style.

Photo: A typical Spanish Colonial house, featuring stucco walls and a terracotta roof, from Unsplash

Wrought Iron

This can be incorporated into interiors in a variety of ways. Wrought iron chandeliers and railings are two examples. Wrought iron is reminiscent of years past, when blacksmiths were found in every town.

Dark Wood

Dark varieties of wood, such as walnut or mahogany, are often featured in Spanish Colonial homes. You’ll find dark wood floors, ceiling beams and fireplace mantels.

Photo: Dark wood cabinetry. https://pixabay.com/photos/home-kitchen-modern-luxury-kitchen-1416381/

Arches

Arches are common architectural features of Spanish Colonial houses. You’ll find them over doorways or windows, in hallways or alcoves. Arches are a simple way to add architectural interest to an otherwise plain space, without going over the top.

Bright, Patterned Fabrics

While the Spanish Colonial style is centered around neutrals such as those found on the wood or tile essential to this style, you’ll also find pops of color and pattern. Colors are bright and patterns are detailed. These can help to break up the other neutrals.

Photo: Unsplash

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Sources:

https://www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/a25056763/spanish-colonial-design-style/

https://www.houzz.com/magazine/10-favorite-features-of-spanish-revival-style-stsetivw-vs~133590

Outdoor Entertaining Tips

Make the Most of the Summer Months

Photo: https://pixabay.com/photos/alfresco-dining-entertaining-1809839/

This weekend, Memorial Day will usher in the slower days of summertime. The glow of the fireflies, the hum of the crickets and the balmy air make a magical landscape for summer memories. There’s always something memorable about staying outside late into the evening hours, waiting for the stars to come out. The pool water is refreshing and the sunsets are striking.

The warm summer months ahead call for one thing: outdoor entertaining.

Whether it be a small outdoor dinner for your closest friends or a party for the whole block, you’ll want to make sure your backyard and porch are all set for guests with the highest quality outdoor furniture. James Décor’s lines Brown Jordan, Century Furniture, Palecek, Frankford Umbrellas and Currey & Company carry everything you need to get the job done. They offer dining chairs, dining tables, lounge furniture, outdoor umbrellas and anything else you may need to get those summer parties rolling.

5 Tips for Outdoor Entertaining:

1. While the furniture is important, no furniture will look good if your yard isn’t well landscaped. Don’t forget to mow and trim those bushes.

2. Set the mood with lighting. String lights and lanterns placed on your patio will create a cozy glow.

3. While most of the party might be outside, don’t overlook tidying up inside. Guests will most likely be in the kitchen or bathroom at some point.

4. Set some bug spray out for guests who may have forgotten.

5. Plan some fun activities. Outdoor games, such as croquet and bocce ball, are always a hit. Set up a sprinkler or slip ‘n slide for the kids. You could also set up a projector and screen for an outdoor movie.

Photo: https://www.flickr.com/photos/156629895@N03/25691472627

Now, get away from the screen and get outside. Summer is calling.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Sources:

https://www.hgtv.com/design/make-and-celebrate/entertaining/top-15-outdoor-entertaining-tips-and-party-ideas-pictures

New Beginnings

Essentials for New Homes

This time of year is a time of new beginnings. It’s the end of the school year. Summer is almost here. Freedom is calling.

There is one group of people particularly excited about this time of new beginnings: the graduates.

High school graduates will be getting ready to set up their first dorms or apartments. College graduates will be getting ready to move to new apartments or even their first houses. New homes call for new furniture and accessories.

It can be tempting to buy the cheapest stuff you can find to save money initially. This may seem like a good option at first, but you’ll usually get what you pay for. In the long run, you’ll lose money when you have to quickly replace those items.

Why not make an investment to start with? Long-lasting quality is worth the extra money. The difference will be noticeable, too. Quality is in the details.

10 essentials available at James Décor for your new home:

Your sofa won’t be complete without a cozy throw.

Our bedding from Sferra is perfect to set up your new bed. You’ll be sleeping like royalty.

Don’t forget the pillow. Sferra offers those too.

Quality bath towels are a must.

Your bathroom won’t be complete without one of these bath mats from Matouk.

Washcloths are a fun way to add a pop of color.

Don’t forget the throw pillows. These are an easy way to customize your décor. We have them available in all different styles.

An area rug is also a great way to customize your décor and add some texture.

You’ll want to make sure you have plenty of picture frames to keep your family and friends in sight.

These geode bookends are a trendy way to keep things organized.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Photos: Michaela Satterfield

Interior Design vs. Interior Decorating

The Art and the Science of Interior Design

Photo: Michaela Satterfield

There is much confusion surrounding the field of interior design. Many wonder if it is a valid field, thinking there is little skill required in choosing sofa fabrics and drapery colors. Some believe you just have to have a “knack” for it — designing spaces requires little more than some extra creativity.

What many don’t realize, however, is that interior design is not just an art. There is a science to it.

While there are many similarities between interior decorators and interior designers, the fundamental difference is in education.

Interior decorators work to help clients choose décor for their homes. There is no doubt that this requires plenty of interpersonal skill and creativity. Decorators have a natural talent for deciding which things would work together. They are experts on finishes, accessories and furniture.

Interior designers, on the other hand, have obtained a formal degree in interior design, whether that be a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in interior design. The big concepts of interior design — like sustainability, universal design and an understanding of the construction of a building — are what interior designers may understand better than interior decorators.

Designers look beyond the surface of each building they design. They understand how homes and buildings work on a structural level. They work with architects and contractors to design the building from the blueprints to the finished product, keeping in mind important things like building codes and space planning.

The choice of hiring a designer or a decorator, then, depends on what kind of work you need done. If the work is primarily aesthetic, either a decorator or designer can get the job done. If there are more structural changes needed, a designer will have the education to get that done as well.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Sources:

https://newschoolarch.edu/academics/school-of-design/bachelor-of-interior-design/interior-designer-and-decorator/

https://www.thespruce.com/interior-design-vs-interior-decorating-1976740

Scandinavian Interior Design

The Cozy Minimalist Style

Photo: https://www.maxpixel.net/Home-Nordic-Household-2394831

Like a light summer breeze, the Scandinavian interior design style is airy and soothing. The blank spaces are as intentional as the décor itself. Brought about by years of tradition, this style pulls off timeless and modern in the same breath.

This style originated in the Nordic region, which is notorious for long, dark winters. The goal of these interiors is to keep things bright and open, but cozy at the same time. This is no easy feat.

Originating in an environment where natural light is in short supply, the way light is used in these spaces is very important. Lots of windows with sheer coverings are popular.

Photo: https://pixabay.com/photos/stay-scandinavian-style-white-room-2132344/

Other minimalist styles are typically cold and uninviting. The Scandinavian style uses lots of textures — like blankets, rugs and throws — to soften the stark white that is a trademark of this style. Stark contrast, like black and white, is one aspect this style uses.

Another big difference between Scandinavian design and other modern styles is the use of color. While neutrals are an essential component, bursts of other colors are used as well. These colors are typically softer, like pastels.

The style is tidy and doesn’t have a lot of ornate detail. The details, however, are intentional. A well placed piece of artwork or pop of texture prevents the clean style from looking too cold.

Photo: https://www.pexels.com/photo/round-black-framed-mirror-on-the-wall-905198/

Minimalist furniture is often used, such as Mid-century modern pieces. These pieces are slim and light, rather than bulky.

You won’t find wall-to-wall carpet in these interiors. Wood floors with plenty of rugs are the norm. Wood is typically light — like beech, ash and pine.

Nature themes are also common. You’ll find botanical artwork, plants and tree branches throughout Scandinavian spaces.

Like a refreshing summer breeze in the middle of winter, the Scandinavian style is a sure way to bring a refreshing yet cozy touch to your space.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Sources:

https://www.mydomaine.com/scandinavian-interior-design-ideas

http://www.contemporist.com/10-common-features-of-scandinavian-interior-design/

April Showers

Rainy Day Color Inspiration

The rainy season is here, but it’s only a matter of time before the cloudy days are flooded with sunshine. Until then, we’ll just have to enjoy these cool, calm days.

Designs inspired by nature are timeless and work in a variety of interiors. Refreshing spring rains bring to mind subdued colors like blue and grey. These colors are versatile enough to work in a variety of spaces. They would fit in a sleek modern design, as well as in a classic traditional home. Check out the following slideshow for some inspiration on how to incorporate the colors into your space.

Blue and Grey Color Inspiration from Our Showroom:

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Photos: Michaela Satterfield

The Memo Library

Custom Design Options

It only takes a few seconds in our memo library to get a taste of the limitless options in interior design.

This is why hiring a designer if often critical to narrow things down. You’ll find endless swatches of fabrics, flooring samples, drapery samples and everything in between. Most are arranged by brand, and then arranged by color within the brands. We carry a wide range of brands to cater to every budget and taste.

Fabric memo racks

For a designer, there’s nothing more rewarding than searching through countless racks and piles of every color and pattern imaginable. It often takes a whole team, but the light bulb moment of finding the perfect one is worth it all.

Cord samples

If you can’t find what you need in our library, you can typically provide your own material to cover whatever piece of furniture you want to cover. This is referred to as customer’s own material, or COM.

Tile samples

Some of our many brands are John-Richard, Thibaut, Kravet, RM COCO and Duralee. There are countless others. The sky’s the limit when it comes to custom options.

Leather memos

For endless inspiration, come take a look around our memo library. If you can dream it, we can design it.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Photos: Michaela Satterfield

The Heart of the Home

Kitchen Design Principles

Photo: https://pixabay.com/photos/kitchen-interior-design-room-home-1940174/

The kitchen. The gathering place for guests before dinner. The hub of kids running off for soccer practice and parents leaving for work. The hangout of teenagers after school. The room where countless holiday memories are made.

Everyone entering a home is bound to wind up in the kitchen at some point. That’s why good kitchen design is so important. These simple kitchen design principles will make sure your kitchen is ready for the spotlight.

1. Plan the layout

   Before you do anything else, make sure the kitchen layout is finalized. Most kitchens are planned around the central activity areas. The three primary activity areas are the sink, cooking range and refrigerator. Traffic flow and cabinet layouts are designed around these, so this is a crucial step in the kitchen design process.

2. Decide on counter tops

   The next thing you’ll want to do is choose your counter tops. It’s easier to match flooring and cabinets to counter tops than the other way around. Counter tops can be very diverse, while flooring and cabinets are typically more neutral.

3. Keep it simple

   While there are exceptions, you’ll typically want to use neutrals for more expensive kitchen components like appliances, cabinetry or counter tops. Doing this will allow you to change your theme without replacing those expensive items.

4. Accessorize

   With a neutral foundation that will last through the times, accents are your chance to get creative. Smaller appliances and décor are a great way to show off your personal style.

5. Color Choices

   When choosing your colors, a rule of thumb is to choose two dominant colors and one accent color. Lighter cabinets and flooring typically look good with darker backsplash, and vice versa.

Use these tips as a starting point to design your dream kitchen.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Sources:

https://inspectapedia.com/BestPractices/Kitchen_Design_Principles.php

https://sebringdesignbuild.com/learn-how-to-match-your-countertop-with-the-cabinets-and-floor/

Bohemian Interior Design

How to Pull Off This Eclectic Style

Photo: https://www.flickr.com/photos/wicker-furniture/8295078800

There are few design styles as exotic and rich as the Bohemian style, bringing a taste of distant lands home. Inspired by an old-world feel, this style is known for being eclectic. Bohemian homes are a patchwork collection of different objects, colors and patterns that work together to tell a story of a different time period in a different place.

According to an article on Decor Aid, “The word ‘bohemian’ refers to someone who is socially unconventional and often involved in the arts.” The article describes the style as “full of visual interest,” saying it has a “relaxed spirit.”

Pulling this off sounds like a tall order.

Let’s break it down into some simple design elements:

Pattern

Bohemian interiors carry with them a whisper of the oriental. Add some intricate pattern to capture this style, reminiscent of Persian rugs. Patterns could be used on an area rug, or even wallpaper on an accent wall.

Photo: https://www.flickr.com/photos/carpetbeggers/9521482628

Accessories

The Bohemian style has no room for minimalism. It’s all about displaying the objects you own to tell a story. Don’t overdo it, though. Each piece on display should have a purpose other than just taking up space.

Texture

The Bohemian style is all about eclecticism — style that comes from a variety of sources. The variety of textures that work in a Bohemian space is limitless. Rustic wood, fur, leather and metallic pieces are all good choices.

Photo: The gold metallic accents in this vignette would work well in a Bohemian interior. Photo by Michaela Satterfield.

Color

Vibrant colors are one of the trademarks of this style. Be sure to incorporate colors like peacock blue, burnt orange, topaz yellow and deep magenta. Use neutrals as a backdrop to make the colors pop. White is a great choice.

Capture the eclectic Bohemian interior design style in your home with these simple tips.

Michaela Satterfield

James Décor Writer

Sources:

https://www.decoraid.com/blog/interior-design-style/bohemian-style-interior-design