With fall making a definite swing through our hemisphere, it’s time to start enjoying that back porch even more. If sweltering summer temps kept you inside the cool, dry AC for the last six months, then venture out onto the patio and see what you’ve been missing. If you live in more northern climates, you might even have to take a sweater with you! Read More »
The back yard has so much more joie de vivre than the front yard. While the front yard is more concerned with curb appeal, real estate value, and perennials that bloom on time, the back yard is the casual and light-hearted retreat from the street. Parties pop up in the back yard, kids romp and play, and quiet conversations take place on the back stairs where no one can hear. This lush and inviting back yard is gently illuminated by two wall sconces that provide just the right touch of light to the stairs so no one stumbles after dark while chasing lightning bugs.
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When considering the exterior lighting plan for your home, it becomes evident very quickly that your outdoor lights must perform several functions. Safety is a major concern, and we’re not just talking about lighting up the entire yard to discourage would-be plunderers from sneaking into your rear windows — although that is important! Having adequate lighting is necessary for all those after-dark meanderings such as taking out the trash, walking the dog one last time, and retrieving that last soccer ball that somehow escaped the garage. But in addition to being functional, you want your lighting to add value and character to your home, not simply be an afterthought. After all, it’s one of the first things people see when they drive up, especially at night, and offers the first warm, welcoming glow.
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Who would have thought the newest interior design trend would spring from such an unlikely source? Industrial chic decor translates the heavy duty, rustic, and ergonomical objects found in factories into functional and stylish pieces for every room in the house. Start with a neutral foundation, like this Almsted rug from IKEA then add fun embellishments. Metal baskets like the perforated metal baskets, and wire baskets are practical means of storage without sacrificing design. Two industrial essentials are the Bordeaux Tin Wall Clock and the Wilcox Studio Light. These accessories look like they are fresh from the factory floor! And don’t forget to juxtapose your hard, cold, materials with soft, colorful, textiles through your furniture selection like this sofa and pillows.
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When we kicked off the summer with our annual B.L.O.G. contest — that’s Barn Light Online Giveaway — many of you bloggers dove right into our website to pick out your favorite lights then blogged about it online. When the dust settled, our third place prize went to Shannan in Goshen, Indiana. Shannan muses about house and home on her Flower Patch Farmgirl blog. Shannan and her husband Cory, along with kids Calvin, Ruby and Silas, are anxiously awaiting the completion of their new home. The B.L.O.G. contest came at an opportune time for them.
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Nestled in between Brazil and Argentina on the southeastern coast of South America lies tiny Uruguay, a stunning country of rolling plains and fertile coast land. Progressive in politics, business, and environmental causes, it’s no wonder former San Franciscan photographer Heidi Lender decided to pack up and move there. Her new digs were recently featured on Remodelista, and one of our favorite pictures from that post was of her farmhouse style kitchen. The light gray-washed brick walls set off the dark wood of the exposed beams and long dining table beautifully while the pie safe with tin panels adds a country touch. Lender purchased the vintage O’Keefe and Merrit stove and had it shipped to Uruguay — a perfect fit in this tiny kitchen. Read More »
