There are so many ways you can make your space inviting . My recommendation today is to consider wood because it can add both warmth and architectural interest to any space. Choose a little or a lot, there's something for every space. If you don't like the warm tones of wood but love the grain and texture, think about white washing or gray washing it. How about using wood in......
Accessories A few twigs or pinecones as part of a table display or sliced wood attached to board or a recessed box shape can add instant interest to small areas.
These houses cut from weathered 2 x 4 are the essence of simple, but when massed together they provide big impact when displayed on simple white vertical shelving attached to white painted board.
source If you find beautiful wooden boxes like the ones above grab them. They not only provide extra storage but they look great in any application. You can tuck them away or use them out in the open as an end table in a living room or as a night table in a bedroom. They are so versatile.
Room Dividers I am not overly fond of room dividers, but some are so well done they look like an art installation rather than a functional aspect of a home. Here are some of my favourite ones.....
sourceThis divider is attached to the ceiling and floor with rods but it appears to float. It also allows the homeowner to place a piece of furniture in front of it. I think I would like to see the buffet a different colour so it stands out from the wood, but there are just as many arguments for having it the same colour.
source I just love this divider because you can move around it on both sides and it is so substantial looking and works well with the flooring.
source This is perfect in every way, but the addition of a concrete sphere against all those horizontal and verticals is inspired.
Bathrooms
All of these bathrooms have a mix of wood and other surfaces. Each provides relief for the other and in this way work together to create a stronger aesthetic statement.
source There is just enough wood spread around this room to create a wonderful balance with the abundance of marble.
This is both an accent wall and an integrated storage space.
source Sliding doors and drawer and open shelving. This space has it all.
Isn't the asymmetrical placement of this wood strip just a prefect balance for all the white and glass on the left of it?
Fireplaces source Rough hewn logs in an asymmetrical placement work really well . Chunky and demanding they make quite a statement.
While this is probably rough wood that is stained, it looks like charred wood. It is this quality that is so appealing in this application.
I guess you are getting the message that I love asymmetry. This delicate shelf that extends beyond the fireplace on one side is the perfect resting place for two white vases that reference the colour of the fireplace surround.
Accent Walls And don't forget the power of wood for an accent wall. Either natural or stained, you can't beat the warmth of real wood.
I especially love it paired with white walls and furniture.
The Slimfocus model (above) can also be outfitted to your decision – gas or bio fuel, or traditional wood burning. And it can be floated from the ceiling (as shown) or positioned directly on the floor. We enjoy the hanging version above – it permits the floor to keep it is clear lines and offers the room and ethereal feel somehow. And does not it appear great in use? This model can also be attached to the wall or placed against the corner of a space. But the capacity to have it floating free of charge in the space, suspended from the ceiling is what we feel gives it such attention. You do not expect to see a fire suspended in the middle of the living space. And at that height, the heat source is far more powerful. But this is such a stunning addition to any room, the heat may possibly virtually be a secondary (but welcome) portion of the attraction.
The Grappas, above, is a closed and leak proof wood burning fireplace that is winning awards in Europe. Developed for eco-friendly properties, it is a clear example of the beauty that can be produced when design meets function. Note the wood storage box and again, the clean easy lines that add up to a lot a lot more than the sum of its parts. Company founder, Dominique Imbert, says he has had an adventurous life, between “the Sorbornne in Paris and the subway in Manhattan”. When he developed a sculpture studio for himself in the South of France and necessary heat, he built a steel fireplace. Others saw it, wanted it, and his fireplace business, Concentrate, was born. When anything of such style and beauty is designed, the market will respond favorably. And we’;re glad they did.
A lot more info: Concentrate
