Now that you have your new furniture, the next step is arranging it. Where you place your furniture in a room will ultimately set the tone for how you live in it. Here are seven must-know tips for arranging your living room, whether you’re relaxing with family, entertaining friends or watching TV.
The first step in arranging any room is determining just how much space you have to work with. You can use a tape measure to get dimensions or simply measure your foot and walk heel to toe across the room.
To add visual interest to a room you should incorporate a variety of furniture with different characteristics. For example, use an extra-large sectional with small armchairs and side tables to create an energetic vibe in your living room with various volumes.
When furnishings are out of scale you’ll notice that it just doesn’t feel comfortable or right. That being said, make sure you use scaled pieces to create balance. Note that similarly scaled pieces create a more serene atmosphere when used together.
There are two forms of balance: symmetrical and asymmetrical. Decide which you’d like in your living room. While symmetry is very restful, asymmetry adds visual motion and excitement. Asymmetry refers to imbalance, for example to candles of slightly different sizes next to each other.
When designing your home, try thinking like an artist. Look at your space like a painter looks at a piece of art. One trick painters use is ‘triangulation’. In interior design, this can be utilized by placing two end tables on either side of a sofa with a painting above it.
Another trick painters use is the creation of depth in artwork. Paintings often have foreground, midground, background and vanishing point. Placing a chair at an angle can be the foreground. A cocktail table will provide a midground and a sofa with the wall behind it will serve as the background. A window or painting placed above the sofa will give you a vanishing point.
All furniture arrangements should have a certain gestalt, or ‘totality’ or ‘form’. For instance a long, narrow living space can be split in two by creating different zones of function. Create one half for the sofa and the function of conversing, and the other half for a dining set and function of dining. Dividing rectangular rooms into squares according to their function helps to make us feel more comfortable and less formal, which is exactly what we want for our living room!
Everyone wants to make a great first impression. So why not make one at home? Your guests and neighbors will want to know what’s inside.
First, add some symmetry to your entrance way. Not only is it an easy way to please the eye, but it’s fool-proof. Whether it’s a light fixture or potted plants, a balanced arrangement will create a welcoming pathway to guide visitors inside.
Replace simple hardware that is outdated or old. Think along the lines of coordinating finishes more than mix-and-match. For example, oiled-bronze finishes suit traditional homes, while brushed nickel suits contemporary ones.
A super easy way to spruce up your entry way is to add some color to your front door. Consider repainting it or perhaps buy (or make) a new wreath to hang.
Install outdoor lighting to add safety and curb appeal. Illuminate a walking path or landscape. (Opt for low-voltage lighting.)
Create an instant graden to liven up your entryway. There are many options at garden centers. You can purchase a ready-made container or create your own with your favorite plants. Staggered, asymmetrical arrangements work best to create a dynamic, garden feel.
Add window boxes to bring color and appeal to your home exterior. Choose any type of box– from copper to wood. Mix and match plants and flowers to create your personalized color scheme.
Although it may take some time, consider replacing gutters and downspouts. Eventually they get run-down and may convey a sense of neglect. You may also want to look into a nicer (but a bit pricier) look by using a copper system.
Tile or paint your doorstep. Find a contrasting pattern or color that accents your porch for an easy, permanent welcome mat.
Find some more ideas to revamp your curb appeal on bhg.com
We all have a certain style to fit our personalities, habits and likes. Why shouldn’t our homes reflect it?
By expressing yourself at home -where you sleep, eat, play, and lounge- you give visitors (and the rest of your family) a chance to see a part of you through different distinguishing elements. It can be hard at times to get started, and you may be worried that changing your home to reflect your personality is a huge time investment. Another common issue may come to mind- you spot things literally everywhere that you love… but it doesn’t go well together. Don’t panic, we’re here to help you with that. Let’s get those creative juices flowing with this list of styles from TLC Home. All you have to do is pick and choose.
Traditional home decorating — frequently associated with older generations — has been updated with a look that young families can embrace. Learn how to create a cozy room in the traditional style.
Whether you like simple American country or the more elaborate French provincial design, there’s a country style for you. Learn more about the widely varied country styles.
No longer strictly cold and austere, contemporary decorating still embraces clean lines but can be warm and welcoming, too. Learn more about how contemporary designs have pushed into the environmental arena as well.
Do you already have a number of objects and pieces of furniture you love but don’t fit into one coherent design style? Find out how to combine your favorites and create a style that reflects you!
A room can provide the perfect platform for vintage collectors and flea-market shoppers to display their most treasured finds. Discover how to decorate a room retro-style.
African, Indian, Asian, Scandinavian…styles throughout the world are as varied as the countries and their unique cultures. Find out how to create an interior design plan that celebrates the world in your own home.
The natural colors and patterns of wood and stone are the inspiration for Arts and Crafts Decorating. Simple and clean lines give rooms a sleek yet warm look. Find inspiration in an Arts and Crafts design.
This country style is a blend of patterns and colors that is inviting and homey. A mix of patterns and textures make a room rich and welcoming. Learn how to create a comfortable, casual, and chic design.
The wide-open spaces and spare look of the Southwestern landscape inspire Southwestern design. The furnishings may be minimal, but a Southwestern room is filled with character. Find out how to incorporate your favorite aspects of this style into your own home.
A spacious and elegant design can unify areas of a home with an open floor plan that are used for different purposes. The design flows easily from seating areas, to the dining room, and even into the kitchen. Get tips on how to give your own space a feeling of spacious unity.
This time of year can be stressful for all of us, especially when you begin to feel guilty about skipping on your not-so-necessary traditions (the gingerbread house became a hassle more than an hobby when your kids hit 16, admit it.) But here it is, a few tips to help you through and to let you know that it’s ok to ditch some habits for the sake of your stress level.
Organization
Food Storage Containers are key, so remember to stock up on all sizes so you can give some leftovers to family or store and freeze for a quick meal later on in the week.
Collapsable Tarp Bins are great for storing christmas blankets and stuffed animals. Regular bins can also store ornaments and decorations to pack away for next year.
Cut Down
Decide whats most important on your To-Do list. Ask yourself what you would be sorry if you missed. This way, you don’t feel like you’re running around wasting precious time during the holiday craze.
Differentiate between obligations and choices. Keeping up with the Jones’ lighting display, for instance, is one thing you can cut out. Going to that miserable company party every year isn’t necessary either. Cut yourself a break once in a while — odds are you’re doing enough already.
Schedule & Simplify
Scheduling prep time is one of the most important steps that people overlook. Schedule time to shop, cook, bake, clean, decorate and wrap. With these items on your agenda, you won’t have to stress by looking for gaps in your busy schedule to squeeze them in.
Simplify Gift Giving. Who doesn’t like getting gift cards? And e-cards are just as thoughtful as pricey, time-consuming Christmas cards mailed from the post office. Remember, setting a budget before getting elaborate will help to give you an idea of whether you’re doing too much or just enough.
Plan the flow. From the moments your guests arrive to when they sit down at the table, to when they walk out the door. Try to envision the flow of activity at your home. A good example of what a average event consists of is: guests arrive, welcome toast, hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, main meal, musical interlude, dessert, presents.
Set up a day in advance. It’s best to know ahead of time if you may need extras of something. It never hurts to see your table set up the day before so you have time to make any changes that may come to mind a few hours before if need be. This can also make a huge difference in your stress level that day because you know all too well that you have enough on your plate already.
Stick to the tried-and-true. Stick to dishes you have made in the past that were big hits. For one, you don’t want to have any mishaps in cooking times, under or overcooked food, or not-so-tasty meals that your all-too-polite friends and family feel obligated to eat. And again, you’ll be more relaxed when you have confidence in what you’ll be serving.
Give a parting gift. Whether it’s something small like pretty cellophane-wrapped cookies or a small holiday tchotchke. Something showing you care that they can look back on and remember the holiday spent at your house is perfect to give out to your guests.
Relax. It’s the holidays and your house probably looks great. Just sit back and enjoy the company, food and drink. Also, an added tip is to light some candles. Somehow, candles always have the ability to set the holiday mood. Humans have had a love affair with fire since its discovery – it’s an archetypal symbol of community, heart, gathering, warmth.
Have a great time. After all, if you’re enjoying yourself it will be that much easier for your guests to have fun.
Click the image above to enter your name into our drawing for a $5,000 Room Makeover! A name will be drawn at the end of the year, so enter now before you get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season!
When it comes to quality and comfort, look no further than Lane Home Furnishings. The Lane® name is highly recognized and is synonymous with quality home furnishings.
For nearly a century, millions of happy consumers have been coming home to quality home furnishings manufactured in our state-of-the-art factories. We’ve spent many years testing, re-testing, producing, and using our products. We never rest on our past achievements because we recognize that we must remain on the leading edge of technology and quality in order to satisfy our customers. We continually bring new and exciting ideas to the marketplace . . . ideas that find our customers returning, years later, to replace their old Lane® furniture with new styles.
Our desire is to stand above the crowd in regards to quality home furnishings. We want to be the best at what we do. We want you, our customers, to be completely comfortable with the quality, comfort and styling of our products for years to come.
Thank you to everyone that came out to our Charity Event on Wednesday, July 20th, it was a huge success! With your support, we were able to raise more than $2,000 for Halifax Humane Society! Your generosity is greatly appreciated!
Time is running out to show us your ugly recliners! The drawing is being held August 1st, so hurry up and post a pic on our Facebook Fan Page of your ugly recliner, for a chance to win the amazing BodyRest Recliner!
The BodyRest Recliner, valued at $1,200, is the one and only full-horizontal recliner. A Best Home Furnishings exclusive, BodyRest reclines until you rest parallel with the floor. This unique recliner provides the bed-like comfort of a mattress with the body-friendly support of a recliner. With a beefed-up frame and reclining mechanism, BodyRest is more than a comfy recliner, it’s perfect for post-surgical recovery and even makes a terrific guest bed. You know you want this awesome recliner to be yours, so hurry up and post a pic because time is running out!
Don’t forget to RSVP for our Hudson’s Furniture Charity Event on July 20th: Shop at our Ormond Beach store, get 50% off and we’ll give 5% of all proceeds to Halifax Humane Society!
The BodyRest recliner is the world’s most versatile and comfortable recliner. It’s not only a chair that reclines, it’s also a bed! The chair was designed from the ground up with nothing but comfort in mind, so whether you’re sitting, lounging or sleeping you are sure to be well supported and relaxed. This recliner is like no other and can be customized to fit your support needs. The BodyRest recliner has a removable back with Quick-Fix design that allows you to add or subtract cushioning fibers to reach your perfect comfort level. All of the comfort and versatility of this chair could be yours! All you have to do is enter our Ugly Recliner Contest by posting a picture of your ugly recliner on our Facebook fan page! Good luck!
So you’ve heard all about this Ugly Recliner Contest and you know that you have the award-winning worlds worst recliner in the back of your mind. It’s not yours.
Maybe it’s sitting in a friend of yours living room, perhaps it’s at your in-laws (yikes!) But don’t hesitate to snap a picture and upload it to our Facebook page– You could win them a BRAND NEW state of the art Best recliner valued at approximately $1,200!
On April 2, 2011, Hudson’s Furniture proudly sponsored Uptown Altamonte’s 2nd Annual Winestock event. Thanks to everyone who came out and made it a great event!
Measurements are key. To make it easier on yourself, you can measure the size of your foot and then take a lap around the room measuring walls, entrances, etc.
Scale to fit. While measurements are important, don’t forget to take the depth and height measurements too. If the items in a room are not on a similar scale, you will notice that the room just doesn’t feel “right”.
Balance. There are two types of balance– asymmetrical and symmetrical. Asymmetry adds excitement and variation by creating a non-balanced atmosphere. Symmetry creates a peaceful and balances feel. Depending on the purpose of the room, you should consider one or the other.
Be “form” conscious. Large rectangular spaces can be divided to “form” the space into something else. A long narrow living space can be split into two by creating two square zones of function. One half could be for the sofa and the other half for a dining set. In other words, a conversation room and dining room.
This helps you battle large rectangular rooms by dividing them into square zones of function. People tend to feel more comfortable and less formal in square furniture arrangements versus rectangular.
Do you have an ugly recliner? Is it the ugliest recliner you’ve ever seen? If so, you could win yourself a brand new recliner valued at $1200 courtesy of Best Home Furnishings!
Bored of your bedroom? Here’s are a few ways that you can add a little excitement and personality your favorite spot in your home.
Decorate with items that tell stories. Use clocks, lamps, vases, books, or anything that adds that ‘collected over time’ look.
Create an artistic arrangement of photos. On a blank wall, design a layout of frames filled with pictures, or even your favorite quotes to add personality.
Mix and match bedding. This will add a casual, layered look to the bed in a luxurious yet relaxed way.
Add molding. Board and batten style, to add design to walls, however you would like. Molding creates a decorative contrast for cottage-like charm.
Paint the ceiling! Seriously. By painting the ceilings a shade “whiter” than the walls, it will give your room a deep, exciting new feel.
Colors in a home have the ability to influence our moods although we may not realize it. For example, red stimulates activity while blue is calming. Black is the color of mourning, and white creates a fresh impression. Yellow is energetic, while violet relaxes the mind. We can learn to use colors as a psychological tool when it comes to decorating. Sometimes it’s best to base your color schemes on the purpose of the room. Below, we will explain which colors can be applied to each of your rooms for the most effective “mood” setting. If a color seems too bright or vibrant for your liking, remember that there are hundreds of shade variations for each color family.
Living Room. Warm and earthy is what will create a cozy environment, so think tomato or terra cotta.
Dining Room. For a high energy level and hearty appetite, the colors of ripe fruit can get the job done. Apricot and peach hues do the trick.
Kitchen. The activity center of the house should embrace a bright color like sunflower to emit cheerfulness.
Child’s Bedroom. To promote imagination and creativity, a zesty shade of lime can work in both a girl’s room or a boy’s room.
Bathroom. Cleanliness and relaxation are the moods you want to set in the bathroom. Aqua colors conjure up the relaxing feeling of the ocean.
Master Bedroom. To create a tranquil feeling for a good nights sleep, use the purples and blues of nightfall. Some people are afraid to use vibrant colors, but remember that you want your house to feel like home, not a hotel room.
Do you or one of your close friends or family members have an unsightly recliner that you’re tired of looking at? Start posting your photos of ugly recliners on our Facebook fan page for a chance to win this new Body Rest recliner from Best Home Furnishings. Valued at $1199.99, this amazing chair can be yours to enjoy for free! Click on the image below for more information.
To all of our Facebook Fans: Keep an eye out for our upcoming “Best Ugly Recliner” Contest sponsored by Best Home Furnishings. Contestants will submit a picture of their ugliest recliner chair and have the chance to win a brand new recliner from Hudson’s Furniture, up to a $699 value! Get your cameras ready, it’s going to get ugly!
We love our furry friends, but when they want to claw and jump up on our new leather couch, it’s hard to keep an eye on them at all times. We can discipline however we want, but the scratches remain. Here’s what you will need to fix those unsightly scratches at home if you find yourself without a leather repair kit handy.
You’ll need:
Leather touch-up pain, leather dye, watercolor paint, or a marker pen
A fine-tipped paintbrush
Straight pin
3 toothpicks
Craft glue
Rag
Hair dryer (optional)
Apply the paint or dye to the lighter-colored areas of the scratches to match the color of the leather finish. You can choose to use the fine-tipped paintbrush or toothpick.
Use the pin or a clean toothpick to hold back the tiny edges of the scratches. Apply craft glue, using a toothpick or paintbrush, under the edges of the scratches.
Press the edges of the scratches down gently, using the opposite end of the paintbrush. Don’t apply too much pressure, or the glue will push out from under the edges of the scratches.
With a damp rag, gently wipe in the direction of the scratches to remove excess glue.
Use a hair dryer to speed up the drying process if needed.
Hudson’s offers an unbeatable protection plan when you purchase furniture from any of their 12 locations. Find out more on the website and discover how Hudson’s guarantees you the best experience possible at the time of your purchase and for years to come.
* To report a claim under your Protection Plan, call the HPP Service Center at 1-800-842-1144 within 14 days of finding the issue.
* Your Protection Plan covers the original purchaser utilizing the furniture for residential, non-commercial use. All damages/stains must be reported to the HPP Service Center within 14 days of noticing the problem, or the claim will not be accepted.
* The Hudson Protection Plan agrees to provide service to the original consumer for 5 years from your initial delivery.
* The Hudson Protection Plan limits the number claims on any single piece of furniture to (5) over the life of the Protection Plan.
* The HPP provides highly skilled technicians throughout the continental United States.
Do you have a favorite furniture brand? A table or love seat you couldn’t live without? Hudson’s has over 50 brand names to choose from. Browse their website by designer to find your next favorite piece of furniture. Shop from names like Tommy Bahama, Lane, Broyhill and Better Homes and Gardens. Start browsing now at www.hudsonsfurniture.com
Having purchased your new Florida home you are now looking for a company which you can trust to take care of your custom furniture package. Whether you need a piece to accent the furnishings you already have or a complete turnkey furniture package for your Florida vacation villa, vacation home, or condo; we can do it all. Hudson’s Vacation Interiors has the experienced professional staff to meet your goals. You might plan to rent your home short term, use it personally for friends and family, live in it full time, or use it strictly for business clients, our design consultants will listen closely to your specific needs, and transform them into the beautiful custom furniture package you envisioned.
Did you know that Hudson’s Furniture offers design consultants to help you bring your ideas into your home beautifully?
Hudson’s website offers tools and layouts to make designing your home a fun and stress-free project. Their Room Planner and Cutouts Page provides you with printouts of furniture and graph paper to help you layout your room based on its measurements. The Room Planner gives you a virtual room to adjust and move around furniture to your liking. You can easily mix it and move stuff around to see what will work best for you and your home! Take advantage of all these tools on our website under the Design tab.
A preview of the Room Planning tool on Hudson’s website