Article Written By: Robert Hathaway
Many people might think that casual decor is one that has no theme or organization. Nothing could be further from the truth!
Casual decor includes texture in fabrics, soft upholstry, and simplicity in design and it also includes asymmetrical patterns that are completed with accents. You may find shapes like rectangles or soft curves in a simple decor. People use this simple decor to give their room a comfortable feel. Use casual decor to blend themes together like shabby Chic and cottage, or French country, or American.Start from the floor up in fashioning a casual decor. Flooring suitable for casual style includes hardwood, stained concrete, tile, or stone. Use sisal, berber or other Transitional style area rugs as focal points. Don't use anything too plush.Furniture should be oversized, soft and comfortable, often using slipcovers. Neutral colors such as beige, gray, tan or off-white predominate in casual style. However, other colors such as pastels or jewel tones such as cranberry, navy, olive green or rust can be used for more excitement in the style.Casual decor favors textured fabrics for upholstered furniture and pillows and natural fibers such as wool, cotton and linen. There are also new synthetic weaves available that provide durability without sacrificing a natural appearance.In terms of scale, this style focuses on elements that are large, long horizontals. Chunky tables add to a restful, spacious feeling while offering storage space. Casual also welcomes the addition of wicker and rattan items, finds from the flea market and antiques. One of the essentials for a casual living room setting is a large ottoman that can double as a coffee table with the addition of a large tray. When arranging the room, use a large area rug as a focal point, but don't set the furniture in a formal design. This home decor style emphasizes easy variety, so sharp angles and matched pieces are a no-no. Think complementary; not perfect match.Oak and pine are the most popular woods for this setting in both flooring and furniture. They can varnished for a flat luster or painted. Accents, such as door hardware, are often hammered iron, wrought ion, antiqued brass, carved wood or porcelain.When decorating your windows keep them simple, not cluttered. You can add blinds or shades and use a valance. Try adding old pipes or tree branches as your curtain rods. For the tiebacks you can use a notched twig or a long nail. You just want it to be casual and simple.The windows are not the only spot you can use a rustic look. The light fixtures can be done in wrought iron, pewter, wood, or even tin. These materials look great on lamps and chandeliers. You may want to be adventurous and use a pan rack or a set of antlers for your chandelier.Compliment your casual decor with collections of pillows, old books, hatboxes, luggage, or birdhouses. You may be able to add a collection of area rugs as well; rugs of different sizes that can be hung on the wall or placed on the floor.The keys to creating a Casual style that's warm and hospitable for family and friends should be comfortable, homey, and sturdy, with soft, textured fabrics, overstuffed long furniture, rugged surfaces, rustic accessories and that whimsical touch.Leading Interior Decorators have finally revealed that area rugs are their number one choice for home decorating. And this Anji Mountain Bamboo Rug Co Mountain Collection, has been very popular this year.
This Article Has Been Published on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 and Read 142 Times