It does not take an interior design expert to achieve professional-level results. However, many homeowners find pulling off a mixed color scheme as a challenge. An easy way you can create both harmony and visual interest is with a monochromatic color scheme. A monochromatic color scheme involves using one color in different variations throughout a room. In fact, a monochromatic color design means that a set color is defined in different ways and forms. Both neutral and bold hues can be monochromatic. The thought of sticking to a single color may sound bland, but it is actually trendy in home decor. You can create beautiful spaces that appear larger when using this design strategy, and if you are interested in learning more, be sure to keep on reading!

Color Palette

Since a monochromatic design scheme relies on the use of a single color, you will have to first decide on what hue you are going to use in the space. Once you have settled on a color, consider how you can successfully pull off this look.

Tones, Tints, and Shades

The key to decorating in a monochromatic color scheme is to embrace several unique tones, tints, and shades of the hue. In fact, using different tones, tints, and shades will prevent the design from becoming dull and flat. For instance, if you have decided to use the color blue in your living room, here is how you can use the monochromatic design:

• Dark navy blue sofa
• Light baby blue window treatments
• A rug in the deepest shade of blue

If you have selected a color that is especially deep and dark, then you should balance things out by implementing some pale pieces.

Textures

To further enhance the look by adding dimensions to the monochromatic design, you can use textures and patterns. Pillows, throws, artwork, and window treatments are a great way to add texture. Texture can appear light or dark in whatever hue you have selected.

Patterned Prints

Patterned prints can add additional visual interest. Be sure to choose fabrics with patterns that are harmonious with your theme. Once you have selected a fabric, you can apply it to upholstery for furnishings and accessories.

Have you ever tried a monochromatic color scheme in your space? If so, what tips and tricks would you give other readers? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comment section.

With Father’s Day just having passed, there are some must-haves that will make your dad’s man cave perfect. Whether you are a father/mother, a bachelor/bachelorette, or even a student, these tricks will take your “man cave” to the next level.  A “man cave” or “woman cave” is a room which expresses your hobbies, lifestyles, and passions and gives you an outlet to escape from the rest of the house.  Plus, it does not have to be just for men! If you are a wife or a mom needing some time alone, you can use these tricks for yourself as well. Mastering how your man cave feels will boil down to these five attributes:

1.     Theme

2.       Décor

3.       Entertainment

4.       Lighting

5.       Flooring

Theme

This is your room; it needs to express your style.  Your theme should comprise of an atmosphere in which you are trying to set.  Is this room for relaxing, working out, hosting guests, or rocking out on your guitar? Picking the color palette of the room is also essential.  Will your room be elegant dark navy with brown leathers, or will it be a contemporary black and white studio with a zesty red accent?  Choosing your theme and layout before tackling the project is important to help keep you on track.

Decor

How you decorate this area should reflect you and your theme.  Perhaps it is for your dad and he is into cars, so his man cave is styled after a 1960’s garage with a gas pump in the corner and street light mounted on the wall.  Or if it is for you, maybe you are into sports, and you have framed jerseys on the walls and sign memorabilia acquired throughout the years.  Or perhaps you are into reading, video games, movies, boating, crafting, etc. Pick a theme for your man/woman cave that expresses you and have fun with the decor to amplify your space.  Everything should pull back to the theme, whether its posters of movies or model airplanes on the walls.  Have fun with it because it is yours.

Entertainment

Will you have a bar, billiards table, television, personal library, workshop, or weight room in your man cave? Or perhaps you will include a sewing table, craft area, or reading nook. Whether your man/woman cave is for entertaining guest or yourself, it needs to have a purpose to draw you into the room.  Try to envision blending your theme, decor, and entertainment into one room before beginning the project.

Lighting

Lighting sets the ambiance of the room.  The room’s mood will be directly tied to light fixtures and overhead lighting.  Maybe it is a theater, so you have the capability of lowering the light dimness.  If you are using it for a gym, maybe simple overhead light work, whereas if it is going to feel like a study may be a reading lamp is needed.  It is amazing what lights can do for your room.

Flooring

Now, flooring will bring your room full circle and make feel like a finished man/woman cave.  Consider where your cave is and what you will be doing in it.  If your cave is in a garage in which your car resides, perhaps carpet is not needed as much as an epoxy flooring.  If your room has a bar, maybe consider a floor that is easy to clean up spills.  If your theme is comfy and lounging, perhaps carpet is perfect for you! 

Whatever your ultimate goal is for your cave, remember to consider all five of these attributes.  Do not be scared to use your imagination or let out your crazy side.  This room is to express yourself and use it as your escape. Have fun designing it and making it unique to you.

Art Deco incorporates rich colors and bold geometrics that characters the design’s style. This theme places just as much emphasis on form as it does function. If your decorating style embodies luxury and elegance, this might be the best interior design for your home.

Intense Lighting Scheme

In an Art Deco styled home, creating the right atmosphere is crucial to pull off this style successfully. Create an atmosphere by developing an evocative lighting scheme. This is done by layering lighting. You can do this by using various lighting fixtures such as pendant lights, sconces, and torches. To keep in line with the theme, try selecting light fixtures with polished and shiny surfaces. Chrome and gold finishes will further lend to the futuristic style. Beam lighting up or down to cast a flattering glow on the interior.

Bold Geometry

The hallmark of the Art Deco style is the use of strong geometry. Use angular shapes and bold curves to embody this look. Also, you can emphasize the architectural details in the room with other bold shapes. To effectively capture this look think of a 1930’s theater marquee, incorporate carpets and upholstery that feature rhythmic motifs, animal prints (sparingly) and geometric shapes.

Intricate Textiles

Being sure to incorporate textures is crucial to this design. Plain fabrics, natural weaves, and pretty florals should stay far away from this scheme. You can mix textures such as vinyl, satin, and silk for interest. Stick to sleek textures and solid colors. For a dramatic effect, you can add some flair by incorporating in contrasting solid colors.

Black and White Palette

While you do not have to be limited to such a neutral palette, this is the iconic palette for an art deco inspired room. A black and white color scheme is dramatic, sophisticated, and timeless. Can you imagine the effortless look of combining these colors with metallic and gold finishes? If you are craving more color in the room, you should try golden yellows, regal purple, and dark blue. Be sure to use such hues sparingly since an Art Deco-inspired style leans more towards a minimalist approach. Let them serve as backdrops so as not to take away from the theme.

What are your thoughts on Art Deco? We would love to hear them below in the comment section!