MAKEOVER YOUR MANTEL THIS NEW YEAR

 

If your fireplace is in need of a makeover, start the new year by adding or remodeling a mantel. This home improvement project will not only give your fireplace a facelift but will freshen up the look of the entire room. Converting a boring fireplace into a beautiful feature also creates an upscale vibe within the home.

The mantel design should compliment the style of the room but still reflect the owners personality and taste. This can be achieved by having the mantel custom designed or by selecting a pre-designed layout. Cast stone is an attractive and practical material to use to create a beautiful mantel because of its design versatility, texture and lightweight benefits. To further enhance the beautiful feature and not only create a focal point but a bold statement piece– include a custom overmantel in the design

So if your home is in need of a new year’s remodeling project, start by revamping your fireplace with a remarkable mantel. Realm of Design is happy to work with you in order to create a beautiful mantel design that will not only reinvent your fireplace but will enhance your entire space.  Visit http://www.RealmofDesign.com to view more custom mantels.

BACK IN BRASS

 

A home decorating trend that was hot this past year and is forcasted to stay strong for the new 2014 is the addition of brass accents. The use of brass in home decorating and design made a comeback in recent years but has really seen a steady climb in 2013 due to the the metal’s versatility and visual impact. The brass trend is a popular choice among designers and homeowners because the metal can be customized to accommodate any décor setting. Whether it’s a highly polished look to compliment a modern décor or a dulled antique finish to represent a warm, rustic, vintage feel, the brass trend looks like it is here to stay.

An additional benefit of incorporating brass is that it is one of the most durable and strong metals with a resistance to corrosion. These attributes make the metal even more desirable to be utilized in décor and architectural elements.

The beautiful earthly metal is ideal for kitchen & bathroom fixtures, fireplace surrounds, architectural accents and artistic sculptures. It is sure to add a timeless beauty to any space. So consider brass when doing your next renovation or decoration. Realm of design looks forward to creating the perfect brass accent to adorn your space.  Visit http://www.RealmofDesign.com to view more embellishments.

OLD WORLD STYLE ESSENTIALS

With the popularity of homeowners opting to decorate their homes with a throwback to the older days, the Old World design style is becoming a modern trend that may be here to stay. People are opting for this pleasing rustic design style because it is comfortable and inviting, yet elegant. Basically, homeowners want to create an ambiance with that “lived-in” feeling but have the space still look sophisticated.

There are a few design essentials to achieve Old World style within your home. The most significant element is to affix exposed wood ceiling beams. (Realm of Design recommends Faux wood ceiling beams because they are light-weight, durable, easy to install and less expensive than genuine wood.) The natural look of a dark wood finish gives a warm coziness to the interior. Another important facet to acquire the style from the past is to add architectural arches to the windows and/or doorways. The shaped arches not only gives an Old World appearance, but characterizes elegance and sophistication. To further enhance the charming style, incorporate ornate, sculpted architectural stone pieces. This can include fireplace mantels, surrounds and molding. Along with stone, forged metal accents with an aged finish will also increase the dwelling’s natural refinement. To exemplify the look, combine the architectural elements with rich wall colors, over-sized leather furniture and velvet fabrics.

Whether it be Old World style or another, when it comes to decorating, (interior) design style trends follow the same rules as (clothing) Fashion style trends: Today’s styles are inspired by the past and style history always repeats itself.

TRANSFORM YOUR POWDER ROOM INTO A PAMPER ROOM

When most people think of a bathroom, luxury isn’t typically the first word that comes to mind. But with the bathroom being one of the most popular rooms getting remodeled in 2013, we’ve noticed homeowners are opting to upgrade the room into their own luxurious spa. The transformation of the powder room into a pamper room begins with a grandiose bath design. This will assure a sumptuous room that is fit for a king or queen. But, how ever exquisite you decide to go with your spa-to be, keep in mind that it should ultimately be functional and comfortable, as well as sleek.

Next, to enhance the room’s tranquil atmosphere, add a dramatic custom stone fireplace. A beautifully detailed fireplace surround and mantel not only jazzes up the space aesthetically, but it will create a relaxing ambiance. Because this striking architectural element is elegant and sophisticated, it’s an important piece in order to give the space that high-end chateau feel.

Additional architectural elements such as custom vessels, columns, counter-tops and artwork increase texture and refinement to your personal fortress by characterizing richness. Because your newly transformed diggs should not only look impressive, but inviting, decorate with candles, candle-holders, flowers and urns to further compliment the space.

So indulge. You are sure to unwind and revel in your new dreamy dwelling. Your only concern should be which wine to drink. I believe Frankie Goes To Hollywood had the right idea when they sang the infamous song…’RELAX.’

Visit http://www.RealmofDesign.com to view more beautiful fireplace surrounds and mantels.

MAKE YOUR LIVING ROOM LOOK LIKE A MILLION DOLLAR ROOM

Your living room may not be quite an actual “Million Dollar Room,” but there is no reason that the space can’t be made to look like one! It’s nice to dream about having endless funds to remodel and/or decorate your home. But for most homeowners, reality doesn’t quite allow for that. So for those working within a budget wishing to transform their living room into a makeshift Million Dollar Room, the best place to start is by adding an essential key element–a divine fireplace.

The fireplace is the focal point of a living room and can make or break the dwelling by setting the tone of room. Being the area’s main attraction, it is recommended that a fireplace mantel and surround should be custom designed to compliment the look and feel of the room, while creating an elegant, rich statement. This will assure that your centerpiece becomes a stately showpiece. Once the fireplace surround and mantel are completed and if your budget permits, other architectural accents can be added to enhance the luxurious “Million Dollar Room” look. Architectural elements such as columns, molding, arches, beams and balustrades magnifies a room’s splendor. Furthermore, embellishments including wall cartouches, sculptures and custom furniture contribute to refine the room’s expensive look as well.

So even if you don’t have a million bucks to spend on your living room, a few key pieces can certainly make it look like you did!

Visit http://www.Realmofdesign.com Galleries to view some actual Million Dollar rooms and those that look like Million Dollar Rooms.

THE GROWTH OF GREENSTONE

With the big push for residents and builders to “Go Green” and reduce their carbon footprint, GreenStone has become quite a popular product in the building industry. But first, let’s fill you in on what GreenStone is (for those who may not have heard of the product already.) GreenStone is a patented environmentally-friendly building material that is made from 100% recycled glass and fly ash—as well as a few other renewable ingredients. This eco-friendly material can be used to replace standard concrete in virtually any project. The glass that is utilized and upcycled into GreenStone comes primarily from the discarded alcohol bottles from the Las Vegas Strip. In fact, this patented green architectural stone has already saved over a half million beer bottles from being landfilled.

Since its official launch in early 2012, GreenStone has received quite a bit of media attention and was featured on DIY and HGTV. The biggest project that put GreenStone on the map was the construction of the Morrow Royal Pavilion in Las Vegas – Realm of Design’s manufacturing facility. The building project utilized the GreenStone material on its exterior which proved that the concrete replacement can be used on a large scale design as well as withstand the weather elements.

With the completion of the new manufacturing facility, along with all the media attention, Realm of Design has seen an increase in homeowners and builders wanting to be green, therefore, requesting GreenStone when remodeling their property and/or adding architectural elements (fireplace mantels, columns, embellishments, etc…) Even the Las Vegas casinos are getting on board by adding GreenStone items such as Trash Cans, benches, urns, and the list is growing…

It’s good to see the effort being made by individuals and corporations to be more eco-friendly and recycle instead of landfill. We’ve got a long way to go but the growth of GreenStone certainly is a good start!   To learn more about GreenStone visit http://www.RealmofDesign.com.

ADD A TOUCH OF TUSCANY TO YOUR HOME

 

Tuscany is a region in central Italy that is historically known as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Tuscan style emerged as an homage to its historical region’s culture and traditions. It has remained a popular decorating style throughout the years because of its elegance, richness and simplicity. The Tuscan décor style, commonly referred to as “Old World Country Style,” is a combination of Old World and Mediterranean Style elements. These elements include natural materials from the Earth such as stone, metal and wood. This look is heavily influenced by nature and exudes a sense peacefulness, warmth and rustic beauty. The style is comfortable and can be achieved by incorporating architectural accents with aged stone, tile and wrought iron pieces. Exposed faux wood beams, architectural door arches and window shutters also add a touch of the Italian design style to a space—even if it’s on the home’s exterior. When Tuscan accents are paired with rich colors and natural textures, this enticing look will bring the spirit of Italy right to your home.

Whether it’s an interior or exterior—any space within a home will look beautiful and more appealing with the Tuscan style. However, the kitchen has been one of the more popular rooms to showcase the Italian style because it is brings elegant charm to the heart of the home. By incorporating an aged stone kitchen hood and an artistic decorative backsplash, these architectural pieces help achieve the look and atmosphere of an Old World Italian bistro on the countryside that is warm and inviting. But most of all, it’s classy, stylish and tasteful.

History has proved that homeowners enjoy basking in Italian culture and ambiance. And Realm of Design Tuscan style architectural elements can help create those surroundings– all without leaving the comfort of your home.  Visit http://www.RealmofDesign.com to view more Tuscan pieces.

THE OUTDOOR FIREPLACE TREND HEATS UP

The hottest trend in outdoor furnishings and accessories is the addition of an outdoor fireplace.  This popular trend, which has had an ever growing demand over the past 5 years, has really been thriving in 2013 and here are some of the reasons why…

For starters, the outdoor fireplace creates an outdoor room which extends a home’s usable square footage and living space. This makes the expanded space the perfect location to enjoy a quiet cozy night outdoors or entertain guests. With a customized mantel and surround, the functional focal point will highlight your patio and instantly give your backyard an upscale look.  And the rustic ambiance the centerpiece creates provides a relaxing environment which can be enjoyed during the day as well as night-time.

These beautiful backyard accents not only add drama to an outdoor space, they also add value. According to the NAHB, an outdoor fireplace adds an average of $3500 to a home’s value. Additionally, because of it’s elegant flair and value, a fireplace outside is one of the most sought after features in luxury homes.

Furthermore, with more and more cities banning outdoor fire-pits and bonfires, especially in dryer climates, the outdoor fireplace is a practical choice. And with the ease of igniting gas burning fireboxes with the flick of a switch, these dream exterior fireplaces are a trend that is here to stay.

Visit http://www.RealmofDesign.com to view more outdoor and indoor fireplace mantels and surrounds.

GIVE YOUR FIREPLACE A FACELIFT

 

A fireplace should be considered the focal point of a room, so why not transform your ordinary fireplace into the most visually exquisite architectural element of your home? Updating a mediocre fireplace into an admirable architectural accent will not only update your room’s décor but it will add value to your property.

The preferred way to give your out-dated fireplace a facelift is to add a new mantel or fireplace surround. And if you really want to create a bold statement, combine it with an over-mantel as well. These decorative items directly improve the appearance of a home’s interior while creating a more luxurious dwelling.

Fireplace designs and trends can vary year to year, however the classic styles still remain the most popular fireplace trend in 2013 due to its versatility and style longevity. Realm of Design fireplace mantels and surrounds can be customized to suit any style or taste. The company also offers a selection of different fireplace finishes, including Aged Stone which is ideal for those that wish to incorporate Old World Style into their home’s decor. Since being Green is also popular, Realm of Design offers an Eco-friendly building material option (GreenStone) which utilizes recycled glass.

No matter what unique fireplace style or design you choose to improve your room’s setting in 2013, it is sure to be adorned for many years to follow.  Visit http://www.RealmofDesign.com for inspiration to create your dream fireplace.

DECORATING WITH COLUMNS / PILLARS

Throughout history, extensive use of columns on the interior and exterior of a building was the most characteristic feature of classic architecture. In fact, Columns and Pillars have been a component of architecture as early as 2600BC when they were used by the ancient Egyptians primarily as decorative support structures. Fast track to 2013 where these fundamental pieces of architecture are being used mostly for embellishment rather than engineering.

Designers and architects looking to make a space more interesting and not just cover a structural support  incorporate decorative columns (or pillars as some may call them). Whether it be ceiling-to-floor columns or smaller free-standing pillars, these architectural accents provide a variety of looks and are a smart choice for someone wanting to add sophistication and elegance to a dwelling. Decorative Interior Columns are used frequently as room dividers to add balance, create accents and add rustic flair —especially when combined with architectural arches and an Old World style fireplace mantel. If an area of a room needs shielding due to exposed wiring or plumbing, a free-standing column can be a great concealer while serving as a functional pedestal for flowers, statues and vases.

Outdoor Exterior columns are visually compelling and enhances a home’s architecture and landscape.  They can boost curb appeal and refine a home’s entryway and/or patio. These aesthetically pleasing Columns can be customized by Realm of Design with an assortment shapes, colors and/or textures to compliment the structure’s architecture and transcend the home’s beauty. They also provide a perfectly classy transition from the patio to the landscape. Columns / Pillars are one of the few architectural elements that can also be decorated. They are commonly graced with garland, lights, foliage and/ or ivy. This can give the columns additional character and a unique presence.

All of the Custom Architectural Columns / Pillars by Realm of Design are manufactured at our Las Vegas facility.  For more decorating with columns ideas, visit http://www.REALMofDesign.com.