Month: June 2023

10 Home Decor Faux Pas That Date Your Interiors, According to Designers

Posted on By Maria J. Glover
HOME DECOR

Some home decor trends have an expiration date. While midcentury-modern designs like sleek Eames furniture or Eero Saarinen–designed Womb chairs are back in fashion and selling big, for example, others can make homes passé. Not to mention, a home stuck in the past might actually lose some of its potential resale value. According to Eugene Colberg, principal of Colberg Architecture in Brooklyn, “Updates to a house can maximize value when placing the home on the market,” he says. “Homes are also more enjoyable to live in when they have been updated,” Colberg says.

The usual culprits, like popcorn ceilings or laminate floors, are easy to spot. But how to find the newly to-be-retired faux pas around the house? Don’t worry. AD did the work for you. Read on for a list of seven lackluster features you should refresh stat.

A tiny area rug

Area rugs in the wrong size can throw off the balance of a room.

Area rugs in the wrong size can throw off the balance of a room.

Photo: John Keeble

Whoever coined the saying “bigger is better” might have been thinking about area rugs. “Too small of a rug can actually make the room feel smaller and out of balance,” says Nancy Evars, interior designer and founder of Evars Collective, a boutique showroom in California’s Bay Area. Sure, smaller rugs had their heyday as recently as the 1970s—when wool rugs crafted by handloom suddenly made a comeback—but really, the decor was more popular in prior centuries, when mass-produced textiles just weren’t a thing. Today, area rugs are meant to pull together an entire room, and in the living room that means having all the furniture on the rug, “or at least the front legs of the sofa,” Evars says.

An easy fix is setting more than just the coffee table on the rug. “Furnishings should fan out from

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Shop owner goes back home to Easton for next ‘Abode’

Posted on By Maria J. Glover
HOME DECOR

Just about two years ago, Krista Lichtenberger opened her home decor shop in downtown Nazareth.

Lichtenberger’s new shop quickly found success, with its rustic, modern home decor and furniture.

Over the winter, she brought her business, temporarily anyway, to Easton’s Winter Village, an annual event that transforms the downtown into a European holiday village. Her Abode Home Decor was among the pop-up businesses that welcomed shoppers looking for unique holiday gifts.

“We had a wonderful experience and were well received by Easton and surrounding locals. As an Easton native, it makes it that much more special to me to have a brick and mortar here,” Lichtenberger said.

It’s then that she knew opening up her second shop in Easton would be the next move for her growing business. Abode Home Decor recently opened at 131 N. 3rd St.

  • Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N...

    Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N 3rd St, Easton. (Monica Cabrera/The Morning Call)

  • Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N...

    Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N 3rd St, Easton. (Monica Cabrera/The Morning Call)

  • Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N...

    Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N 3rd St, Easton. (Monica Cabrera/The Morning Call)

  • Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N...

    Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N 3rd St, Easton. (Monica Cabrera/The Morning Call)

  • Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N...

    Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N 3rd St, Easton. (Monica Cabrera/The Morning Call)

  • Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N...

    Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N 3rd St, Easton. (Monica Cabrera/The Morning Call)

  • Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N...

    Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N 3rd St, Easton. (Monica Cabrera/The Morning Call)

  • Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N...

    Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N 3rd St, Easton. (Monica Cabrera/The Morning Call)

  • Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N...

    Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N 3rd St, Easton. (Monica Cabrera/The Morning Call)

  • Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131 N...

    Abode Home Decor has opened in Easton at 131

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The Man Who Turned the World on to the Genius of Fungi

Posted on By Maria J. Glover
HOME DECOR

Like many small organisms, fungi are often overlooked, but their planetary significance is outsize. Plants managed to leave water and grow on land only because of their collaboration with fungi, which acted as their root systems for millions of years. Even today, roughly 90 percent of plants and nearly all the world’s trees depend on fungi, which supply crucial minerals by breaking down rock and other substances. They can also be a scourge, eradicating forests — Dutch elm disease and chestnut blight are fungi — and killing humans. (Romans used to pray to Robigus, the god of mildew, to guard their crops against plagues.) At times, they even seem to think. When Japanese researchers released slime molds into mazes modeled on Tokyo’s streets, the molds found the most efficient route between the city’s urban hubs in a day, instinctively recreating a set of paths almost identical to the existing rail network. When put in a miniature floor map of Ikea, they quickly found the shortest route to the exit.

“Entangled Life” is full of these sorts of details, but it’s also deeply philosophical: a living argument for interdependence. Without fungi, matter wouldn’t decay; the planet would be buried under layers of dead and unrotted trees and vegetation. If we had a fungi-specific X-ray vision, we would see, Sheldrake writes, “sprawling interlaced webs” strung along coral reefs in the ocean and twining intimately within “plant and animal bodies both alive and dead, rubbish dumps, carpets, floorboards, old books in libraries, specks of house dust and in canvases of old master paintings hanging in museums.”

The idea of fungi as metaphor for life has lately entered the zeitgeist, seeded in part by the forest scientist Suzanne Simard, who discovered that trees are connected through a mycelial network, the “Wood-Wide Web.” There

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Best digital photo frames for 2023

Posted on By Maria J. Glover
HOME DECOR

Here’s something I’ll never understand: We all snap zillions of photos on our phones, but the only place we ever see most of those photos is … on our phones. Don’t they deserve a showcase? A shrine, even? Shouldn’t you get to see not just a few favorites once in a while but all of your precious memories all the time? Yes, yes and yes. That’s why I’ll go to my grave championing digital photo frames, which display photos as a running slideshow on a stylish screen. Below you’ll find my picks for the best digital photo frames you can buy right now.

Quick Overview

  • Best budget digital photo frame

    Jeemayswart 10.1-Inch Digital Photo Frame

  • Best portable photo frame

    PhotoSpring Portable 10-Inch Digital Picture Frame

  • Best big photo frame

    NexFoto 17-Inch Digital Picture Frame

  • Best photo frame that can receive texts

    Loop Wi-Fi Digital Picture Frame With 10-Inch Touch Screen

  • Best digital photo frame for families

    Nixplay 10.1-Inch Digital Picture Frame

  • Best photo frame to give as a gift

    Aura Mason Luxe 9.7-Inch Smart Digital Picture Frame

  • Best splurge frame

    Samsung the Frame 32-Inch Class QLED 4K TV

See 2 more

I can’t tell you how much joy my wife and I get from catching glimpses of friends, family, past vacations and special moments. Where a photo album must be hauled out and paged through, a photo frame is full-time. You might notice it as you pass by throughout the day; you might sit and look at it all through breakfast.

However a frame weaves itself into your life, I consider it an unrivaled source of happiness — and, consequently, a great gift, especially for parents and grandparents.

Clockwise from top left: Digital picture frames from Aura, Nixplay and Loop.

It’s time to free your photos from the tiny confines of your phone. Digital picture frames have come a long way since

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Hilton San Diego Gaslamp quarter debuts $22.5 million renovation this Summer

Posted on By Maria J. Glover
HOME DECOR

Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter is excited to announce the completion of its $22.5 million dollar renovation project. TheHilton completely remodeled full-service hotel and new restaurant concept, Wild Hare Bar Garden, offers the quintessential Southern California experience for the global traveler who wants to “be” in San Diego to work and play. Business and leisure travelers can relax in a modern California urban setting with new room amenities. Ideal for explorers visiting America’s finest city for the first time or locals who simply want a staycation in downtown San Diego with their family, friends, and pets.

Award-winning design firm Waldrop+nichols studio based in Texas, created a contemporary casual California aesthetic featuring artistic and playful elements of the Gaslamp Quarter’s early inhabitants. Today, all 286 beautiful guest rooms, lofts, and suites, are designed with modern furnishings with convenience in mind.

The new interior design and architecture create a relaxed and fun urban vibe. The focal point is a beautifully carved maple wood wall with abstract, organic shapes and patterns that portray California’s casual lifestyle.

“All prior divisions were removed, creating an open and flowing space that allows guests the opportunity to work, socialize, dine, and partake in cocktails, all while connecting effortlessly to the outdoors and enjoying the amazing San Diego weather,” said Reggi Nichols, President, and Founding Partner at waldrop+nichols.

The hotel features elongated curved sofas, marble tabletops, and rattan and wicker seating, most custom-made with sustainable materials. Custom light fixtures muted, and neutral color tones and textures display a blend of design styles that create a warm and welcoming ambiance. “We are excited to showcase our beautiful hotel in downtown San Diego,” said General Manager Francesca Ramirez. “We are most excited to welcome our guests with the same genuine hospitality we are known for, one that comes from

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This small town cafe has a long list of fun lattes and perhaps the best breakfast sandwich

Posted on By Maria J. Glover
HOME DECOR

The old wooden floors that creak, the rustic nature of the building — fabled by some to house ghostly residents — and the friendly, effervescent employees that greet you. Welcome to Cafe Lemont, home to the historic Village of Lemont’s tried and true neighborhood cafe.

As soon as you enter through the door, the camaraderie and fun is on display. The staff is talking to regulars and working hard on creating a meal, snack or coffee. It’s clear Cafe Lemont is a community hub: artwork is showcased and for sale by local artists, locally-made Moody Culture Kombucha is available by the can in a cooler, and the parking lot is always packed. It’s a staple meeting place for all walks of life — from Penn State professors, out-of-towners visiting for a football Saturday, and of course, the passionate and devoted residents of Lemont.

Cafe Lemont is a coffee shop and cafe in The Lemont House, nestled on the corner of Pike Street and Boalsburg Road in Lemont. Although it opened in 2010, I didn’t have the opportunity to visit until I moved back to State College in 2021. When I did, I quickly learned that it is one of the top-tier cafes in the area, namely, in my opinion, because of their breakfast sandwich and long list of fun lattes.

I’ll admit that I was a bit overwhelmed the first time I saw their drink list online. They offer coffee (hot, iced and cold brew), lattes, matcha, cappuccino, mocha, espresso, teas and Italian soda, just to name a few. They have so many flavors you can add to lattes (or their Italian sodas), plus they offer a whole list of cool specialty lattes like Dragon’s Breath, Nutty Irishman and Cinnamon Roll.

My go-to is the Chocolate Rose latte. I typically

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5 decor swaps to keep your home cooler this summer

Posted on By Maria J. Glover
HOME DECOR

As the temperature outside rises, the annual quest for a cooler home begins — but without spending a fortune on our utility bills.

Try incorporating these home-cooling design moves. By swapping out heavy textiles for airy fabrics and setting up effective cross-ventilation, you can create a cooler house without touching the thermostat. Here’s how to design your way to a chill, summer-ready house.

1. Ditch the fuzzy rugs.

If your home is full of cozy wool rugs or fluffy shag rugs, give them the summer off. Roll them up and store them safely, making sure they are protected from bugs and out of direct sunlight so they won’t fade.

Then, embrace a bare hardwood or stone floor, which is cooler underfoot. For those spots that need a rug, such as beside the bed or under the kitchen sink, swap in a flatwoven rug in a natural fiber.

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2. Invest in cooling window treatments.

Gauzy, lightweight curtains might create a summery vibe in a room, but because they let lots of sunlight filter through and won’t help cool the space. To lower your energy bill, invest in shades that have a white plastic lining on the outside of the window as this reflects back as much light as possible.

3. Create cross ventilation.

For those who don’t have central air conditioning, cross ventilation is your best friend on hot days and will help keep the fresh air circulating.

To start, open two windows (or a window and a door) that are located across the room or even across the house or apartment, depending on the size of your space. Set up a fan next to one window, so it will help propel the fresh incoming air throughout your home. The more powerful the fan, the better the

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Unveiling the versatility of toile

Posted on By Maria J. Glover
HOME DECOR

I’ve previously waxed poetic about my adoration of textiles. You may even know that in my past life I worked for a batik company. That fondness has only deepened in recent years.

As a lover of textiles, there’s something truly enchanting about toile. Its delicate motifs and intricate details transport me to a bygone era, where elegance and refinement reigned supreme. Traditional French toile designs evoke a sense of nostalgia and romance that captivate my imagination. Whether it’s the pastoral scenes depicting idyllic landscapes or the charming narratives woven into its patterns, toile fabric holds a special place in my heart. Join me on a journey as we delve into the timeless allure of toile, exploring its history, versatility and the ways it can transform any space into a haven of timeless beauty.

A classic blue and white traditional toile is the focal fabric for this bedding look that combines creams, whites, and multiple shades of blue for a refined yet relaxed bed.

The history of toile

Toile fabric holds a rich history that spans centuries and countries, originating in Ireland and quickly spreading to France during the 18th century. The word “toile” is derived from the French word “toile de Jouy,” which translates to “cloth from Jouy.” The town of Jouy-en-Josas, near Paris, became renowned for its production of these exquisite fabrics. The popularity of toile fabric can be attributed to Christopher-Philippe Oberkampf, who established a successful textile printing factory in Jouy-en-Josas in the late 1700s.

During its early years, toile fabric was primarily printed using engraved copper plates, which allowed for the intricate and detailed designs it is known for. The motifs often depicted pastoral scenes, landscapes or narrative vignettes that represented idyllic rural life, historical events or mythological tales. Toile fabrics were meticulously crafted with delicate lines, soft hues and a sense of refinement, making them highly sought after by the French aristocracy.

Toile quickly gained popularity across Europe and became a symbol of luxury and sophistication.

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40 Kitchen Decor Ideas To Personalize Your Space

Posted on By Maria J. Glover
HOME DECOR
<p><a href="https://upspringpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2r9mGvNn_onygEWrGAWE6pkHIwW6oJlG8asWF6W6lgakNnQO-hwFxMIns2nOPO0ibYP09NY5zBV3iw4UFpN5AtetiSGkfnMeXTof7rSfGl5WFOUBubHocO6UEkHyCkwaV59_8r6DpTy2tP8XIlTSWRxrbHQ--t1wKpVbG8x9Gc5BvLPXuvwQ">Maydan Architects</a> / Photo by Peter Kubilis</p>

Kitchen design is a multistep process that includes making decisions about practical things like layout, storage, and appliances, but it’s equally important to focus on choosing finishes, decor, and accessories that will make this utilitarian space feel warm and personal. These kitchen decor ideas in a range of styles, sizes, and budgets will help inspire you to make everyone’s favorite hang-out space as inviting as any other room in the house.

Try Peel-and-Stick

For renters or those who like to change up their decor with minimal effort and investment, a peel-and-stick wallpaper backsplash like this neutral patterned wallpaper from Tempaper & Co. can change the look of your kitchen in a flash.

Display Everyday Objects

<p><a href="https://lobsterandswan.com" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="externalLink" data-ordinal="1">Lobster and Swan</a></p>

In this warm, rustic English country kitchen from Lobster and Swan, everyday objects from coffee pots to glass pitchers and jars filled with tea and herbs are displayed on reclaimed wood shelving, keeping everything visible and accessible while doubling as decor.

Decorate With Food

<p>Velinda Hellen for <a href="https://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="externalLink" data-ordinal="1">Emily Henderson Design</a> / Photo by Veronica Crawford</p>

In this kitchen from Velinda Hellen for Emily Henderson Design, one end of the kitchen island is lined with shelving filled with identical jars of dry goods to create an accessible mini pantry that doubles as edible decor.

Choose Warm Earth Tones

<p><a href="https://www.houseofgdesigns.com/" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="externalLink" data-ordinal="1" rel="nofollow">House of G Designs</a> / Photo by <a href="https://www.public-311.com/" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="externalLink" data-ordinal="2" rel="nofollow">Public 311 Design</a></p>

In an era of kitchen decor still dominated by neutrals, a colorful kitchen is a memorable kitchen that will stand out from the crowd. This kitchen from House of G Designs has a warm and sunny palette of earth tones that includes a salmon orange retro fridge from Big Chill that gives it an energizing and inviting feel.

Use Reclaimed Shelving

<p><a href="https://lobsterandswan.com" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="externalLink" data-ordinal="1">Lobster and Swan</a></p>

Lobster and Swan used reclaimed wood to build open shelving and cover the range hood, an eco-friendly choice that creates a warm and rustic feel in the English country kitchen.

Add Layers of Lighting

<p><a href="https://upspringpr-dot-yamm-track.appspot.com/2r9mGvNn_onygEWrGAWE6pkHIwW6oJlG8asWF6W6lgakNnQO-hwFxMIns2nOPO0ibYP09NY5zBV3iw4UFpN5AtetiSGkfnMeXTof7rSfGl5WFOUBubHocO6UEkHyCkwaV59_8r6DpTy2tP8XIlTSWRxrbHQ--t1wKpVbG8x9Gc5BvLPXuvwQ" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="externalLink" data-ordinal="1" rel="nofollow">Maydan Architects</a> / Photo by Peter Kubilis</p>

This New

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