Island style decor ? Home Improvement

The key to decorating the home today is to focus less on function and more on the emotional and aesthetic appeal. ?Because this school of thought is so widely accepted in interior design, it makes it easier to adopt island style decor if it?s something one fancies. ?So, go ahead and loosen up ? exchange a tailored interior design with a more laid-back, island motif.

What combination of colors, furnishings, fabrics, accessories, textures and scents can make the island style come to life within any home? ?The secret is to find the perfect combination of comfort and beauty. ?The basic principles of island style decor include water ? and sun-inspired color schemes, soft fabrics, natural textures and authentic materials that promote an exotic and seductive ambience.

Regardless of whether a home is located in tropical Florida, a city high rise or a suburban neighborhood, it is quite easy to create an island escape in every room. ?Here are some great ways to incorporate relaxing elements to melt stress away, just as one would do on a tropical getaway.

Setting the tone
Bring the emotional calm of the islands into the home by using natural wood flooring. ?Think natural, rich wood tones ? though stone and natural jute also work well for a tropical feel. ?Choosing muted natural colors on the floor is a great way to start, though for a more contemporary feel, rugs with foliage or floral patterns also work well. ?The secret is to create a synergy by blending the soothing calm of the islands with the modern convenience of your home.

The walls should also feature muted, natural colors, though they do not have to match the floor. ?When painting or papering the walls, think of the color of the sand, the sea and the sun as a base. ?By keeping the floors and walls neutral, pops of color can be easily incorporated through accessories, furniture and art. ?Bold, bright colors definitely set a tropical tone when used in the right way.

Floors and walls aren?t the only aspect of the room that can lend a tropical feel ? consider the ceiling! ?A slowly turning ceiling fan will create a natural breeze and will also bring down a high ceiling. ?Steer clear of traditional ceiling fans and opt for a paddle fan made of straw or another natural material.

Setting the mood
The ambience of a room is created by textures, furniture and lighting. ?When on a tropical island, one is usually surrounded by soothing lighting, soft furniture and natural textures. ?Start with the texture, which should mimic nature; remember to also incorporate variety. ?The fabrics should be extremely soft and inviting in an effort to create a feeling of paradise. ?Balance the ultra-softness with natural materials like bamboo, metal and rattan.

To incorporate an island motif into the home, choose furniture that has been slightly distressed. ?Because most furniture found in island homes is made by local craftsmen, the furniture should always show plenty of detail. ?However, the design can be either traditional or modern. ?Leather sofa beds actually work quite well in a tropical room, as long as the leather is soft and supple. ?If individuals prefer fabric furnishings, opt for an ikat scheme, which is prominent in Indonesia, South American and Central America.

Lighting is also an important aspect of any island style design. ?When possible, let as much natural light into the room or, at the very least, substitute natural sunlight with ambient cove lighting and specialized dimmers. ?Lighting fixtures made of wood, antiqued metal, ceramics and cane are ideal for achieving a tropical look and feel.

Source: http://www.homeimprovementzone.co.uk/island-style-decor/

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