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Sconces Are Uhh-mazing And Here Is Why 

First of all, I would like to share, I was never a big fan of sconces. I always associated sconces to be old fashioned and honestly didn’t pay them any mind. The trend dawned on me during the time I worked for West Elm. People were more keen on using sconces than table lamps, which were either due to lack of space in these ever so small Bostonian apartments or the client just preferred the look of a sconce. Living in this era where living spaces seem to get increasingly smaller, emphasizes how practical and essential these light fixtures can be.

The dining room is a pretty multi-functional room in our home. This is where we eat, work or craft up some DIY projects. It’s basically where a lot of the action and magic happens. It is also a space where great conversations & discussions are held and, of course, memories are made. I think it’s essential to maximize the way you live and use your domicile. It’s healthy and makes you feel happy and more at home, as it offers to house and manifests all layers of your personality.

A QUICK GUIDE TO CREATING DECOR VIGNETTES

There is something about odd numbers, that does the magic in the cluster universe. The power of a cluster lies specifically in the group of objects working collectively and not individually. It’s almost like each of their individual aesthetic strength merges into one and sends a message to the observing eye: ” Yes, we look all so different, but yet we belong together!”

What I love most about clustering pieces is that (at least in my world) there are no rules. I go about it almost intuitively. While going through trial and error, I do realize the more opposite the materials are, the better they look as a unit! Further, the more unique they are, the more they complement each other. I personally enjoy mixing eclectic and sometimes ethnic pieces into a modern context, which is the style I mostly feel comfortable in.

Another key aspect of creating a decor vignette is to also mix items with different heights AND opposing shapes. It visually creates a 3-dimensional dynamic, which accentuates their visual composition. Putting 2 accessories with different shapes, but similar heights together don’t mix well as they are actually competing with each other since they share one characteristic: Which is the same height!

Here are different ways and essentials for arranging/composing a cluster. If you want to see some live action, check out this ‎video where I style my shelves using these techniques.

TRIANGULAR ARRANGEMENT

The triangular cluster is defined by using at least 3 accessories with distinct heights and textures, offsetting each other creating a so-called “triangle”.

Tip: It takes some shifting and testing of the different looks. Take a step back and see which look you prefer.

10 WAYS TO STYLE UP YOUR APARTMENT


The struggle of styling your apartment is real. We all know it. We all go through it. How much do I want to spend on decor? How long am I going to stay for? Should I buy this furniture piece, risking it may not fit in my next place? This is literally the monolog I have on a regular basis.

In my case I sort of go with the flow and I think it’s important to feel good and at home (rented or owned). So I don’t like to restrict myself and like to navigate within the possible and the temporary.

To start things, figure out a master plan and dedicate a budget towards this project, whether you just invest a big chunk of money right away or if you want to dedicate a certain amount per month and splurge on accessories and furniture as you go. The important thing to keep in mind is to make sure to invest in temporary and versatile pieces that won’t ruin any surface in your apartment. Simply, things you can take with you when you move out.

I have created a list of ways on how to effectively style your apartment.

Let’s jump right into it!

 


Temporary Wallpaper

Wallpapers are a great way to add character to your home. They are complicated to install, especially, if you are working with patterns or large murals, that needs to be aligned to be perceived as one collective image. The glue is meant to last, which means, taking it off would be quite a project. Thank god for temporary wallpapers! These are just as fancy and a breeze to remove. They definitely are statement pieces that have a great impact in your interior. Essentially it’s like having large unframed artwork.

Tip: Self adhesive vinyl wallpaper is perfect for apartment use. You can actually reuse them by putting it back onto the adhesive backing it came with (it’s hard but doable! It just takes patience, time and at least 2 people!) and reapply it to the walls in your next place.


THE CLASSIC + WHITE REINVENTED

The black + white ensemble has been consistent with its popularity throughout the years and it seems like it’s not going away any time soon. The classic duo has been conquering the kitchens of the world slowly, but surely. What I have noticed as well is the simplicity and boldness in size and format of the cabinets – the bigger the better. Hardware is scarcely present and transforms these cabinets visually into built-in closets and makes the transition from the rest of the home more seamless and clean. The only features that give it away as a kitchen are the faucets and stoves and such.