Modern Perfection - A Creation by Ehrlich Architects

As receivers of eight National American Institute of Architects awards and named California Firm of the Year in 2003, Ehrlich Architects is a world class organization that is internationally recognized for their extraordinary designs. Their approach to architecture and planning is known as Multicultural Modernism, which was primarily generated through the travels and experiences of founding Principal, Steven Ehrlich. According to Ehrlich Architects, Multicultural Modernism revolves around architectural anthropology.

The Zeidler Residence featured below is 4,500 square feet of modern perfection. Located in Aptos, California, this stunning home overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Ehrlich Architects designed the home in a way to maximize the scenic views, bring in natural light, and welcome ocean breezes.

Clean lines, large windows, and minimal landscaping give the outside of this home a sleek and modern look.

A collection of dark handsome chairs contrast perfectly against the neutral tones of the space.

Framed art and stunning views make this area the ideal location to eat a meal.

A unique statue to the left creates visual interest in the otherwise clean and simple kitchen.

The neutral color palate and scenic views give this bedroom a sense of calmness and tranquility.

With its numerous wine racks and modern blue chairs, this area offers a chic and sophisticated ambiance.

The staircase contains the same modern beauty as the rest of the home. A single piece of art adds a splash of personality.

A noticeable pop of yellow adds to the remarkable scenery.

For even more modern designs by Ehrlich Architects, browse through their portfolio and add some of their work to your Faves today!

All White Rooms - Tips and Tricks

All white painted rooms might seem plain to some, but they are a great canvas for self expression. White walls reflect light and make a room appear larger, and brighter, so white rooms have many  advantages. If you aren’t a believer yet, I hope these images change your mind. Here are a few tips and tricks to make your white room anything but boring!

Tip 1: Use a bold print sofa as a focal point, you can also use bold prints in throw pillows or curtains.

Tip 2: White walls are perfect for experimenting with many prints and colors, don’t be afraid to mix stripes with florals, and even add a Moroccan side table. Make sure to stick to a color scheme like black and blue (above) so the room doesn’t feel cluttered.

Tip 3: For a beautiful country room you can find vintage pieces including plates and silverware, and spray paint them white, baskets and blue stripes also can add a country appeal.

Tip 4: If you want to add some color to your walls, but can’t decide on a color, just use your favorite fabric as a backdrop.

Tip 5: White looks great paired with light woods, a natural color palette, brick floors, and lucite dining chairs!

Tip 6: Beautiful bright colors look especially daring when used in an all white room, and you don’t have to worry about what colors you choose since they won’t clash with your wall color. 

A Mix of Opposites to Create Interior Greatness

Mixing and matching is always a risk. It can be a very intriguing risk as it can often add exciting elements to a room.  Mixing different elements together creates a very engaging and distinctive style to a room.  For example, try combining contemporary furniture in a traditional-styled room.  Combining the new with the old can create zest in your room by doing so.  Another way to “mix” is by adding bright furniture into a dark room or vice versa. The concept is to use contrasting styles, colors, and more.  Also, you could even mix based on texture, combining smooth with rough textures. For example, you might use carpet, which is a rough object, against granite, an opposing smooth object.  The rough texture colliding with the smooth texture will complement each other fittingly.  Opposites do attract each other in interior design when done correctly. There are endless ways to creatively decorate a room by mixing opposites and provide your interior with a unique ambiance and feel.

In this dining room, the traditional patterned wallpaper is mixed with an indulging modern bright aqua color and mid-century modern dining set.

This bedroom mixes together dark colored walls with a bright centered bed.

A beautiful transitional style sofa complements a gorgeous modern coffee table.

The black color furniture significantly distinguishes itself from the white walls.

This dining room has a mixture of a rustic rough red brick wall going against a soft textured white glossy table.

Defining Different Color Front Doors

Your front door’s color could say a lot more about you then you might think. There are many different groups of people that believe that your front door’s color could not only describe your personality but also your home’s atmosphere. Debbie Zimmer, a color expert, states “Like a necktie, which is the focal point of an outfit, the front door is the focal point of the home. The color there sends a strong message – in the case of the front door, providing insight into how we view our home. Color has a psychological component through which we often communicate our moods, feelings, emotions, and personality.”  So, whether you choose to believe it not, lets take a look at different front door color definitions.

A black colored black door signifies power, sophistication, and authority.

Red means that the house is full of passion and energy. Red also means welcome to incoming guests. In colonial America, travelers specifically searched for red doors, since it was used as a welcome sign.

A blue front door will usually indicate that the home is calm and relaxing.

Green indicates that your home is peaceful, harmonized, and safe.

Brown usually indicates structure and stability. But if it’s incredibly dark brown, it means that the home owner wants privacy from you. 

Lemon Yellow Home Decor

Retro inspired looks, including retro colors, are coming back into play in home decor this year. Don’t be surprised to see lemon yellow home accessories and decor items popping up just about everywhere. Fortunately, lemon yellow is one of those hues that is easy to incorporate into just about any space. Here are a few tips and tricks on lemony yellow home accessories and how to incorporate them into your space.

Tips and Tricks for Yellow Home Decor

One of the easiest ways to make lemon yellow truly stand out in a room is to pair it with a neutral color. Gray is all the rage currently in home decor and it pairs perfectly with a crisp lemon yellow. Of course, gray isn’t for everyone. Other neutrals to consider include cream, white or black.

Lemon yellow is a bolder choice when it comes to the color yellow in general. For this reason, you can’t necessarily use it as a neutral in the same way that you might use a light buttery yellow. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t use it in a beautiful or unique way in your home. Try to think outside the box. For example, lemon yellow cabinetry in your kitchen or a bold lemon yellow lacquered table (or other piece of furniture) in your dining room. A little yellow can go a long way!

Lemon Yellow Home Decor

Blend your yellow tones with a complimentary wood tone, which can help tone down the look and allow you to use more yellow in a particular space. For example, lemon yellow can go well with a medium oak wood or even a light bamboo color.

Finally, consider decorating your home a bit more neutral and then using lemon yellow as your accent color for your home accessories and decor. This is a great way to create various focal points throughout your home. For example, you could line your fireplace mantel with lemon yellow vases in a variety of shapes and sizes. This adds visual interest and adds the lemon yellow hue but prevents it from being too visually overwhelming. This is especially true if the space is neutral, such as cream colored walls and a beautiful white marble fireplace surround.

Lemon yellow is a bold color and therefore it’s certainly not for everyone. Don’t be afraid to use lemon yellow in your home decor, but be prepared for some less-than-colorful comments from some of your guests. Just remember, this is your home, not theirs! Lemon yellow is a great choice and it can be a great way to bring a touch of sunshine into your space.  

Inspired and want to make your home more lively? Check out some of the wall art selections to freshen up your interior!

Five Tips to Creating Coastal Interiors

Hello Arcadian Home readers! My name is Chris Givan and I am the owner and head interior designer of Christopher James Interiors, a full service interior design firm located in Orange County, California. I am happy to be guest blogging today on a topic that our firm is very familiar with…coastal interiors. As an Orange County interior designer, we have had the opportunity to work and design many homes on the coast.  Today I’m going to give you some of our simple design tips that you can easily incorporate into your own coastal interiors… even if you don’t live on the coast. 

Blue and White Color

This always adds a nautical and coastal feel to a room. The striped rug, coral on the coffee table and ship wheel on the right side of the room add the finishing touches.

Sisal Rug and Sea Life Throw Pillows

Guest Post: Five Tips to Creating Coastal Interiors

This burlap and white beach cottage is complete with the throw pillows and sisal rug. The rope tied table lamp and star fish in a wooden bowl underneath the coffee table enhance the look.

Driftwood on the Beach

This simple tip is great to add an architectural and rustic feel to your coastal interior. Leaning in the corner (as shown above), mounted on the wall or displayed on a console table.

Ropes

The addition of rope to an interior always adds a coastal and nautical flare. I love the way the dock ties are attached to the steps with the rope as the railing. I’ve also seen rope used as a table lamp or even a picture frame.

Wainscoting

This always adds a nice touch to any coastal interior painted in a crisp white. I love the way it creates a ledge for the black and white ocean prints. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

I hope this gives you some inspiration for your coastal inspired rooms. I’d love to hear some of your ideas when creating a beachy and coastal interior.  Send me your thoughts and stop by Christopher James Interiors for more interior design inspiration.

Dramatic Designs- Black and White Home Decor

When it comes to home decor, certain looks are timeless. This is especially true when it comes to color palettes that are used to choose home accessories and decor for a space. Black and white home decor is a look that has come and gone over the years, and recently has grown significantly in popularity. Here’s the low down on black and white accent furniture and home accessories how to create a dramatic space using them.

Black and White Home Decor

First and foremost, if you’re looking to work with black and white home accessories and decor, it absolutely does not mean that you need to paint your walls a stark white, or a dark black. While this can help you to create a more dramatic look, it’s not necessarily a “must do” for this type of home decor.

Secondly, if you find small home accessories that you enjoy but they’re not the right shade, don’t be afraid to tackle them with a can of spray paint. Remember, that chess set with the red and blue chess pieces can instantly become a black and white piece of home decor if you spray paint the chess pieces black and white instead. Remember, home decor and home accessories are versatile!

Dramatic Designs- Black and White Home Decor

Third, do not be afraid to mix in a third or even a fourth color. Black and white are very crisp, clean colors and they can become dull or dreary in some instances. By adding a few pops of color, you can add some interest and flair to any space.

When working with black and white, don’t forget about having proper lighting. Black absorbs light quite easily, so you may find that you need a bit of additional lighting in order to create a warm and inviting space, or even just to have adequate lighting, period. Work with different lamps and other light fixtures to create ample lighting for your space. Remember, lighting is an important part of interior design and home decor.

With furniture, you can go a number of different ways. While the contemporary style of today, with it’s clean lines and fluid curves, is a great choice, it’s not the only option out there. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of furniture to find the right look to compliment your black and white decor scheme. Other looks that are particularly trendy currently include the exaggerated forms of Baroque style furniture, mid century modern and Art Deco.

Black and white decor can be extremely dramatic, but it can become overwhelming or even dull. For this reason, it’s important to choose pieces that you are drawn to in order to create a space that you enjoy most. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself yearning to redecorate long before it’s even necessary. Images 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Visit Arcadian Home, do some shopping, and add some black and white accessories to your home decor!

Modern Lighting: How to Incorporate Chandeliers in Every Room

Chandeliers have been around for centuries and originally were multiple armed fixtures that held candles. Today, these light fixtureshave evolved greatly and don’t necessarily have multiple arms, though they do almost always have multiple sources of light. Despite their antiquity in age, these particular ceiling fixtures are set to be one of the most trendiest light fixtures in recent years, being used in every room from the bathroom to the bedroom and into the living room.

Despite popular misconception, chandeliers were more about wealth than about actual function. In fact, although their design was quite clever, it was difficult to keep the candles lit and these light fixtures could prove to be quite dangerous if anything around them (including the fixture itself) were to catch fire.

Today’s chandeliers are significantly safer, with many options using LEDs and other energy efficient light bulbs that produce less heat, as well as other factors that make these light fixtures safe all-around.

Scale

Modern Lighting: How to Incorporate Chandeliers in Every Room

When using a chandelier in any room, including the traditional dining room setting, it is important to take note of the room’s overall scale. You do not want to choose a chandelier, or any light fixture for that matter, that is too large to fit the space.

What Size Chandelier Do I Need?

With scale, comes wondering what size chandelier you actually need. These light fixtures are surprisingly easy to work with, especially when trying to determine the overall size needed for any given space.

To determine the proper size for a chandelier, you’ll need to add the length and the width of the room. The number you get after adding these two figures is the diameter of your chandelier.

For example, let’s say the bedroom is twelve by twelve feet in size. Twelve plus twelve equals twenty-four and therefore, the light fixture should be twenty-four inches in diameter. Another example, the bathroom is six by eight, which is a total of fourteen. Therefore, a bathroom of that size could handle a chandelier up to fourteen inches.

When buying chandeliers after you’ve determined what size you need, you’ll need to keep in mind a few key factors: the difference between chandeliers and chandelettes. For comparison’s sake, chandelettes may also go by the name of pendalette, in which the pendant light features multiple articles similar to the chandelier. These light fixtures are generally the same, despite the different names.

That being said, a chandelier is any multiple armed or multiple light source hanging ceiling fixture that is at least twelve inches in diameter. Chandelettes are smaller in size at anywhere from nine to twelve inches. Light fixtures that are smaller than nine inches arependant lights. So always take note of the dimensions on the box before you purchase!

Style

Finally, don’t forget to choose a chandelier that suits the overall style of the room that it resides in. While the term ‘chandelier’ often brings to mind a grand, glittering crystal-accented piece, this particular style isn’t suited for every room.

Fortunately, there are a number of different styles for this light fixture from modern to contemporary, traditional to elegant, chandeliers that feature European details and everything in between. There is a chandelier to suit every style of decor, so don’t give up just because you don’t find something on the first try at your local home improvement store! Images 1| 2| 3

Did we grab your attention and interest you into incorporating chandeliers into your living space?  Don’t forget about our extraordinarypendant lights that are waiting for you!

Tips for Buying Chandeliers

Tips for Buying Chandeliers

So you've decided you need a new chandelier. What now? Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you shop.

Getting the Right Size Chandelier

For starters, remember that lighting from a chandelier, no matter what the setting, should make a room, people, home furnishings and prized possessions look their very best. So it's important to hang the chandelier in the right spot and at the proper height for maximum impact.

A chandelier in a dining room setting should be positioned in the center of the dining table and room proportions.

Avoid purchasing chandeliers that are larger than the width of your table, as people may bump into it when getting up. A handy rule of thumb is that a chandelier should be 12 inches narrower than a table and have at least 48 inches of space from each of the room walls or edges.

Hang a chandelier approximately 30 to 34 inches over a table with an 8 foot ceiling height. If your ceiling is higher than 8 feet, mount the chandelier an additional 3 inches higher for each foot of ceiling.

Tips for Chandelier Bulbs

Keep in mind that lighting from a chandelier that beams directly onto a person from above can cast unflattering facial shadows. The heat from bulbs directly overhead can also be uncomfortable.

Avoid high wattage chandelier light bulbs. They will increase the heat and cause excessive table glare.

Try adding shades to chandelier candelabra bulbs or a wall dimmer to help you control the light and set a more flattering mood.

When a chandelier has no central downlight, you can enhance the dining room table setting and centerpiece by using Recessed adjustable fixtures with narrow beam bulbs. Aim these bulbs at a dining table centerpiece to create additional visual interest in conjunction with the chandelier.

Entryway Chandeliers for the Foyer

In an open lobby or larger foyer setting, an entryway chandelier can provide an important transition from outdoor to interior spaces and set the mood for your entire home. Hang the chandelier high enough to illuminate stairways or side passages; about knee-level of the upstairs landing is a good standard.

Chandeliers in a lobby setting can be wider or taller than dining room pieces so that they comfortably fill a space without appearing too small. You should also allow for at least 6 1/2 feet of clearance from the floor.

More Chandelier Tips

Pendant chandeliers for kitchen islands and dinette tables demand a little different approach. Depending on their arrangement and number, position the pendant 30" to 34" inches up from the table surface.

Dress up the hanging wire or chain of a chandelier by covering it in a narrow sleeve of fabric. Fabric should be three times longer than the chain to achieve a gathered appearance. This is a great idea for holiday looks!

Chandeliers - Size Does Matter

When many of us think of the chandelier, we imagine “The Sound of Music” or some similar Hollywood picture featuring grand ballrooms illuminated by some elaborate and massive chandelier. You know the type—crystal for days and so many bulbs that you find yourself wondering how much it might cost to power that monstrosity for a month. But, when you remember the size of the room these ‘Hollywood’ chandeliers must illuminate, the light fixture actually seems appropriate. This is precisely as it should be because the size of a chandelier is relative to the room in which they are used.

Chandeliers - Size Does Matter

Chandeliers are natural focal points of any décor so there is no need to buy a massive one that requires additional ceiling supports in order to hang. When you purchase an over-sized chandelier, the effect may actually cheapen the décor and make it seem gaudy or contrived. Remember, chandeliers convey a subtle grace and elegance. This effect is lost when you have a massive chandelier illuminating a small room. The idea is for the chandelier to naturally draw attention without becoming that mole on your aunt’s face that you just can’t seem to stop staring at.

Similarly, you certainly don’t want to buy a tiny chandelier for a grand dining room. Undersized chandeliers send the message that you ran a little short on your lighting budget and will forever look awkward and out-of-place. However, it is quite common to see tiny chandeliers in homes for the simple reason that they are some of the most expensive lighting fixtures available for homeowners to choose. But if you do have your heart set on a chandelier, how do you choose one that is sized correctly?

Many people choose to mount their chandelier above the dining room table. The dining room is a more formal area and is well-suited for chandeliers. The diameter of the chandelier is based upon the width of the dining room table. This is calculated by taking subtracting twelve inches from the total width of the dining room table. The height that the chandelier should be mounted at for rooms with 9 foot ceilings is roughly 30-33 inches from the top of the dining room table. When the ceiling is above 9 feet tall, the chandelier should hang 3 inches more (add 3 inches to the 30-33 inches figure for every foot above 9 feet) above the table for every foot. So, for a twelve foot ceiling, the chandelier should be 39-42 inches above the dining room table.

When not using the chandelier in the dining room, the size is determined by the room dimensions. There are two basic ways to calculate the diameter of a chandelier using room dimensions. In the first, the diameter is calculated by multiplying 2 inches by the total width of the room in feet. A width of 12 feet would require a chandelier with a diameter of 24 inches.

The other method is to add the dimensions of the room and convert into inches. In other words, a 10’X12’ room would have a chandelier with a diameter of 22 inches. Some judgment will be necessary but a good rule of thumb is that it is best to err on the small side when you have more elaborate and traditional chandeliers and to go a little large on more modern chandeliers.

Shopping For The Best Discount Chandeliers

Congratulations! You have decided to add the amazing look and warmth of a chandelier to your individual living space. While choosing the right type of chandelier for your home can often be difficult (crystal, rustic, contemporary, etc.), it is also a purchase that can represent a substantial investment. In fact, many chandeliers can cost upwards of several thousand dollars, depending on the materials used in design. With that being said, there are several merchants that offer outstanding discount chandeliers. How can you feel confident when shopping for the best discount chandeliers? In this article, we’ll take a look at some common sense tips that may just end up saving you major money on your chandelier purchase.

Shopping For The Best Discount Chandeliers

First and foremost, determine the type of chandelier that you are interested in buying. Once you identify the particulars of the piece you want to purchase, it will be much easier to find the right discount chandelier for you. What are the things to consider when shopping for the best discount chandelier? Naturally, you will want to have an idea of the style of chandelier you are searching for based upon the style of your home. It wouldn’t make much sense to buy a crystal chandelier if you live in a log cabin; conversely a contemporary chandelier would probably look out of place in a large mansion. You should then decide whether you prefer glass or metal, and how many lights you want your chandelier to have. Once you have a pretty good idea of the type of chandelier you are looking for, it will make shopping for the best discount chandeliers a painless process.

You should approach buying a discount chandelier much in the same way you would a car. Compare, compare, compare. There are literally hundreds of discount dealers out there, and they all offer unique chandeliers at varying prices. By searching several different merchants and the pieces they offer, you will be able to search out the best discount chandelier at the lowest price.

One tool that you should definitely consider when shopping for the best discount chandeliers is the internet. There are so many more retailers available online than in your local area, and many of them can offer rebates, free shipping, and/or custom designs. In addition, web sites such as ebay and ubid allow people from around the world to sell chandeliers at very low prices. One last advantage of using the internet when shopping for the best discount chandeliers is the ability to see detailed photos and receive in-depth details about the chandeliers you are interested in. Whereas your local merchant may only have a handful of chandeliers in the style you prefer, the internet is sure to have lots of choices at great prices.

A chandelier is sure to give any room in your home a whole new personality; an interior fashion face-lift if you will. By following the tips discussed above when shopping for the best discount chandeliers, you will be sure to find an amazing chandelier at an unbeatable value.