Summer is a great time for watching the sunset while sitting in a comfortable chair a cool drink in hand. Taking your living space outdoors during warm weather extends your living space in a fun way.

For more outdoor living ideas in varied styles, see my post on Fresh Words Market this week.

An interesting aspect of interior design is determining masculine and feminine elements within it. Striking a balance between the two offers a space a richness and depth that is both attractive and comfortable. When looking at a primarily masculine design, several things stand out:

  • textures and materials used lean towards being cool to the touch; leather, concrete, and steel are often seen
  • functional design is apparent; the space works and furniture is useful
  • although not exclusively, masculine design prefers sleek lines and angular shapes
  • there is a tendency for neutral palettes (grays,browns, blacks); a burst of bling in the form of metal or glass occurs on occasion
  • art in the form of typography or oversized images stand out adding boldness to a space

Masculinity can be found in all design styles…from contemporary to country-cottage. They evoke a sense of sophistication and some are down right sexy. Here are some examples.

So, what do you think? Is your style airing more on the masculine or feminine side? Is there something missing in these spaces? If so, what?
{image credits: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8, 9, 10}

Months ago, an international teacher (and my friend) moved to Frankfurt, Germany to start a new job. Her goal was to make her living room and bedroom more comfortable and feeling like home. The concept boards for the living room took a neutral palette and infused some fun colors. We were mindful of incorporating pieces she had picked up in Korea and to make sure there was a sense of serenity in the space. Here’s a peek at the project.

Concepts & Inspiration

Living Room Choice

Bedroom

Helping someone countries away create a home space is incredibly rewarding. But, e-design does have its challenges. Sourcing items can be tricky when language and familiarity become obstacles. Luckily, we found a couple of good online options. Certainly, a client is able to change their minds during the process of shopping. Here, the client has chosen not to put up art on the walls as she may move spaces soon. Regardless, she pulled together a very warm and inviting home.

Before & After

Remember the concept boards for the bedroom? Can you tell which one the client went with?

Client Feedback

Somebody’s Home cares, pure and simple. It takes more than just a talented designer to offer that extra support since she gets what it means to set up a new living space and has been there herself. She is intuitive without being pushy, allowing the client to make his/her own design decisions.

Click here to find out what more people are saying.

 

Ok, so here it is…the last of the New Zealand design trilogy. If you missed it, check out the home of Anna Church and find out if you’re a noodist. This here is my most favorite things rolled up into a store. Coffee, interior design pieces, a gorgeous ocean view, and ice cream. I mean, really, were they thinking of me when opening Coffee Ice Cream Design up? I will withhold words and just let you view as I did. Enjoy.

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