From the Floors Up

Minimalism vs. Maximalism

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In design, we can never generalize that one size fits all. Interior design is beautiful because it allows diversity and provides different outlets for individuals to express their style. For instance, minimalism and maximalism provide homeowners with very diverse ways of expressing their style.

Over the last couple of years, we have seen minimalism and maximalism both come in and out of style. Both bring very different attributes to design; however, neither is the right way or the wrong way to style your home. Consistency is key, and both styles demand full attention. Let us take a closer look at both designs to help you determine which style is best for you.

Minimalism

This style has been trending more with the millennials. Minimalism is a style where less is more. The belief of quality over quantity is the bare backbone to this style. Minimalism embraces functionality and easy access around a room. Clean lines are often exposed, and the atmosphere uses little to no decor. However, this design style is far from boring. The elements that are chosen to be in the room’s design are very selective and serve a purpose.

In an atmosphere with little furnishings, each piece that is selected has more of an impact. Consider a room with two leather couches and nothing else. Now, imagine placing those leather couches in a busy atmosphere with rugs, pictures, wall art, and more. The leather chairs can have a more individual influence on the room when not distracted by other elements. The aspects of the luxury of leather are more appreciated and brought out into expressing the room.

Maximalism

That being said, it does not mean that maximalism is not expressive. Maximalism is exceptionally expressive and will put style before functionality. Wall trim, ornate detailing, and lavished artwork all contribute to this atmosphere. Maximalism contains very decorated rooms and can feel eclectic at times; however, every element still has a place and a purpose. You can scrutinize a maximalism room through the finest details. These rooms will have throw pillows, curtains, wallpaper, paintings, and much more.

Both styles are very unique in their own way. We can see both having influences in today’s design world. Which style do you prefer? We would love to hear from you. Let us know in the comment section, and for more comparisons on today’s designs and more, make sure to subscribe!

5 Ways for Adding Style to Your Fireplace During Summer Months

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Just because it is summer, it does not mean that you cannot get some good use out of your fireplace. Instead of building fires, you can use this element to add style to the room further. From travel souvenirs like beach shells to twinkly lights, there are several items you can use to dress up this area and create a space that will wow your guests.

Create a Mini Art Display

Love artwork? Well, let your fireplace serve as a backdrop to all your favorite art pieces. You can create a mural or a series of small framed pictures above the mantel. You can also purchase a large sculpture and place it inside the fireplace to make a statement and use the mantel to store your collection of natural objects like seashells and other trinkets.

Oversized Mirror

If you do not have a mantel over the fireplace, what better way to use all that empty space than by hanging up an oversized mirror? Incorporate metallic accessories designed for fireplaces to add emphasis and sophistication to the area.

Candles

If you miss that look of the fireplace being lit up during the summer months, try replacing the logs with LED flickering flameless candles. This is an easy way to add drama instantly, and it is completely safe.

Paint

Apply a new color of paint to the fireplace mantel for added flair. Be sure to use a hue that complements the interior of the room. For instance, if you are furniture is beige, you can paint the fireplace a tan color to match the design, or if you want to use the fireplace to create contrast in the room, trying to apply a bold hue to the area. Bold colors will make the fireplace stand out from the rest of the room and draw guests’ eyes to the fireplace.

Backsplash

We are used to seeing backsplashes in our kitchens and bathrooms; however, this time we are adding tiled backsplashes to the fireplace surround. When tiling the fireplace, try picking up cool tile design that will reflect the light from the fire during the winter months. If you are not too fond of tiles, you can also use stone and other natural stones to deck the outside of your fireplace. Whatever your style preference, let it shine all night long on your fireplace surround.

How do you use your fireplace during the summer months? Do you find yourself decorating it or leaving it be? We would love to hear your thoughts below in the comment section.

What is a Mood Board?

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Whether you have noticed it or not, many interior designs are created with functionality and a theme in mind. When we are designing our space, we thrive on giving a room its own feeling. This ambiance or tone we are setting is called the room’s “mood.” Many elements such as color, texture, design theme, and flooring can all play significant roles in how our rooms feel. However, it can be challenging to envision the finished product of a room. Picking out floors, paint colors, furniture, and more can all seem great in your head but turn to complete chaos. To prevent this, you can create a mood board. A mood board will gather all the elements you would like to add to your space and collectively display them together. Still confused? Do not be; here is everything to know about creating your mood board:

Digital Mood Board

Ideally, there are two types of mood boards which you can create. A simple mood board can be created digitally using apps such as Pinterest or even just a photo album on your phone. Save and pin all the ideas you would like to incorporate in your home. From flooring options to colors, you will begin to generate a mood. Seeing all these elements with each other can help you determine what is a “must” and what can wait.

Physical Mood Board

Your second option is creating a physical mood board. This is great because you can physically encounter the tangible objects, and it will allow you to understand the textures and feels you bring into your home. Go and get the carpet, laminate, or hardwood samples you are considering. You can collect paint swatches and fabrics as well. Pin these to a board as see how these elements interact with one another. Being able to touch them physically can help. Now, this may not always be the easiest option but is typically the best way to know exactly what you are getting.

Creating a mood board can save you time and money. While you may be investing more time up front, the finished product will be well worth it. All you have to do is decide which mood board is best for you.

How to Capture “Zen” in Your Design

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Zen is more than the feeling tranquility and peacefulness. Today, we often find that chaos is the “norm.” Our hectic lives demand more from us than ever. The traditional work weeks have been growing longer and our personal time slowly dwindles away to mere nothingness, and we tend to get caught up indulging in the illusory aspects of the world but fail to enjoy the moment. Creating a relaxing environment in your home is one thing. Zen is wisdom that the cosmos is a harmonious system.

Minimalism

Let’s be honest; clutter equals chaos; therefore, you should eliminate what you do not need. It may seem like stressful at first but eliminating clutter and letting go of attachments will be revitalizing. An open space will feel refreshing without the heavy burden of clutter weighing down the room. Additionally, you will want to stick to a neutral color space. Colors can have psychological influences on the environment, and a neutral space will keep the mind from wandering.

Natural Elements

To achieve Zen, you will want to add natural elements to your room. Running water can be used to help alleviate stress. Water has a mesmerizing effect; perhaps, you would like to try having a fountain or even a fish tank with running water in your room. You can also use essential oils in a diffuser to give your space a peaceful scent like eucalyptus or lavender. Bamboo plants, rocks, and hardwood floors can all be influential on your space. Plus, you can even incorporate some of the elements of Feng Shui. Even natural light can help calm the room. All of these natural elements can be utilized to create Zen.

Spot to Reflect

Whether you choose to meditate, pray, or just unwind sometime during your day, your room should offer a spot to reflect. Self-reflection and time of solitude can help you gather your thoughts. You can have time to eliminate the stresses of the world and focus on yourself. You may want a chair, yoga mat, or stool in the room–just remember that this spot is essential to achieving proper Zen.

What are the properties of Zen most essential to your life? Acquiring true peace is more than having a tranquil environment. True Zen is a lifestyle; not getting worked up about the little things and the pursuit for knowledge. Do not end your journey of peace by just adding a couple of things to your room. Remember to reflect, unwind, and absorb knowledge daily.

What is Hygge?

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Have you heard of the term hygge (pronunciation: hoo-gah)? It is a Danish word that does not translate well to English, but the concept is very intriguing to design. Dictionary.com defines hygge as “a Danish cultural concept and value of warm, happy coziness and togetherness, which people make time for in everyday life.” In essence, it is a lifestyle and the pursuit of coziness and comfort throughout life. When this is put into a design, it takes on an incredible feeling that floods your atmosphere. With hygge, you are not concerned solely on aesthetics or functionality of the room, but more the “feeling” the atmosphere provides. Still confused? Let us explore a little deeper into how hygge can be used in your own home:

Warmth

Hygge is affiliated with warmth. We often associate warmth with fireplaces, warm foods, and even cozy blankets. While these all help with captivating hygge, they are not solely what creates the warmth. Think of the words “warmth” and “inviting” as interchangeable concepts. Have you ever went to a friends house and the hospitality is so incredible that you feel at home? This is a warm feeling we feel when we are there; a moment of happiness we experience. Warmth is the beginning of the experience, yet so much more is in this lifestyle than just the materialistic matters.

Comfort

Think to yourself, have you ever been happy to be home? Perhaps, you are just cozied up in a blanket, watching television, drinking your favorite cup of tea? Maybe, this can better help you understand hygge. That feeling of “home” and comfort is hygge. Things in your environment can all have influences on how you feel: cozy blankets, comfortable couches, soft rugs, warm slippers, and your favorite robe. However, it is not the investment in these products that create the environment. It is your actual outlook on the surrounding. It is developing this style of happiness with the little things in life. Enjoying the simple delights, and the wonders that the world has to offer. Maybe you feel most comfortable in an old pair of pajamas–this may have no value to someone else, but to you, these old linens provide the feeling of hygge.

Experience

You cannot buy hygge–this is what makes developing this kind of environment unique. It is about the experience the room has to offer. Hygge is a lifestyle! Hygge is an unforced comfort. You need to make your experience feel welcoming and inviting. It can simply be through a fireplace, blankets, teas, or just plain old hospitality that creates this atmosphere. You may already have an idea of what creates warmth and coziness in your home. Apply these characteristics to help create hygge.

Denmark, Norway, Iceland, and the Netherlands are reported to be some of the happiest countries in the world from a study released in 2019. Perhaps, this found happiness is through the lifestyle choice of hygge. Find happiness in the little things. Time with your friends and family, relaxation, and comfort in your own home. Today stresses force us to comply and live a hectic lifestyle. We challenge you, enjoy the little things. Enjoy hygge.

From the Floors Up

From the Floors Up blog was created with the goal of providing a destination for consumers, designers and those interested in the flooring, design, and kitchen and bath industries. Here you’ll find, current, accurate and informative information that is always just a click away!

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