Interesting Ways To Personalize The Office

Chicago poster in interior

We spend a lot of time in the office. As employees, we are expected to be productive and be our best. As such, the office environment should be inspiring and appealing to help us show and do our best while at work. Transforming the overall appearance of the office will help the workers accomplish their daily tasks. Though it is not easy,  the good news is there are ways that will help you achieve the desired appearance. 

The goal of office decorating is not to exaggerate it with decorative and personal items. You may also want to keep the office dedicated to work and professional while also making it look comfortable just like your home.

Make the office look professional 

Keep it practical and professional by not exaggerating the decors and personal items. Add inspiring artwork or motivational posters. Do not display your personal photos such as the photo of your beach escapade. 

Make it clean and functional 

Avoid clutter in the office. Keep your desk surface and your floor space clear of clutter, papers, and books. Be sure that the office functions well whether you are sitting or standing. Try to set the office up so that it is easy for others to work also. 

Maintain a healthy environment                                                               

One way to make a healthy office environment is to add elements of nature such as plants, flowers, and water. These not only add beauty to your space but also evokes health benefits. The natural colors are likewise soothing that help in your concentration as well as being productive with your respective tasks. Pothos, aloe, and jade plants are all great options as they remove toxins from the air and are easy to manage. 

Keep it look and feel comfortable

In addition to good office appliances and equipment, you should also consider making everything comfortable and cozy. But be sure not to overdo it to the point that the workers tend to sleep on their work. That would be bad news for the company and for the employees too. Have a comfortable back or butt pillow or throw hanging around to help you become comfortable all day. In this way, you could also bring colors to your office without any difficulty. 

Use the proper lighting

Leave the tradition behind and be innovative when it comes to lighting. Add desk lamps with softer lighting so that you can see your work properly.

Add some art

The addition of some art is perfect to complete the wall design of the office. Sometimes wall art is neglected and not given some attention. Add different themes that will blend with the interior design of the office. It is also recommended to add motivational posters to inspire the workers and also to complete their day. 

Display photos for a nostalgic atmosphere

Yes, you can add photos of your family or pet. But remember that it is the office and you should limit personal items being displayed. Choose the appropriate photos and limit them to 1 to 3 only. 

Add accessories

Add items that are functional but also personalized to your own style and taste. Examples are your hip mug or Mason jars to hold your pens and pencils, an attractive bowl for your paper clips, an antique box for business cards, and others.

Dog Decorating Ideas For Your Home

My pet in general suit poster

If you love dogs then it is the right time to give your home a boost with dog-inspired decoration. Incorporating your fur babies into your decor is one of the fun and exciting ways to show your love and give your home a fantastic appearance. Whether adding dog figurines or the best photo of your pet, these decors can easily level up your home’s interior. 

Pawsome photos

If you are like any other dog parent, most likely, you have a collection of photos of your fur baby. Why keep them in your album or in your mobile devices when you can have them displayed. Choose your favorite images, such as a dog in a new bandana walking around the neighborhood, or that day at the beach. If you cannot choose from what you have, then it’s time to practice your photography skills and start shooting some professional-grade photos. 

Create a captivating wall art

This can be anything, from a single photo to a photo collage. The idea is to transform a wall into an eye-catching spot in your room. If you are unsure how to create it, you can check online for design ideas. Dog wall art may serve as a fun and exciting conversation starter with your guests. Create wall art in the living room, family room, or study room. 

DIY Dog Decor 

Now, this is something that will bring out the best in your creativity. The truth is that there are tons of ideas to use when it comes to DIY projects, and you will surely be overwhelmed by them. Try some of them and you will surely love them! Here are some examples.

  • Dog cushion – just like us, our dogs also love to have a comfortable spot to rest. You can make your own cushion by sewing fabric around an old bed pillow. After creating one, you can place it on their favorite spot.
  • All-in-one hanger – need an organizer for your dog’s walking supplies? Get a wooden board, smoothen them, paint if you want, and add hooks to hold your pet’s collar and leash.
  • Toy chest – buy a wooden crate that is big enough for your dog’s toys and other belongings. Paint it in a color that matches your home’s decor so that it will not be an eyesore in your home.

Spruce up your office

Whether you are working at home or on-site, a little inspiration will not hurt. There are a lot of items you can display, such as a personalized dog poster, mugs, doormats, paperweight, or a clock. 

Decorate your walls

There are many wall coverings available in the market these days. Dog wallpaper is one of the strong elements that can add style to your home. Designs may also vary that can enhance the theme of your interior. There are likewise cartoonish designs that can be displayed in the kids’ room. 

Wooden dog signs

Wooden dog signs add a rustic twist to any part of your home. Add them to the kitchen, living room, dining room, bathroom, and any other popular location. 

Try These Amazing Watercolor Techniques

Philippine map watercolor poster by Local Artist Siara Gogh

Are you still wondering why many people are so engrossed with watercolor paintings? Then you just have to look at some of them to see how awesome they are. This painting may be intimidating for some, especially for beginners, but there are many techniques that you can try to see and experience the beauty and versatility of watercolor painting. Read on to learn more about these techniques and you can try some of them and have them displayed in your rooms.

Watercolor washes

Laying watercolor wash can be done on a wet surface or a dry one. Although mistakes can be committed, the secret is not to try fixing them. Just let them be since adding another layer once the original stroke has dried is more obvious. Washes are the backbone of watercolor painting. The wash can be differentiated by the size and swipe of the brush. Washes are used to fill in large background areas, or to create underlying forms that will have more detail and deeper tones. 

Wet-In-Wet painting

This is one of the basic techniques in watercolor painting. You may not realize it, but you have probably done this technique before. Start by brushing water onto the paper. Dip the brush in paint and spread it over the water wash. As such, the paint will weather and diffuse.

Underpainting

This technique is a monochrome wash that is used for the first layer of the painting. Add layers of transparent washes over the underpainting and these will provide a realistic and luminous effect. 

Gradients and color blending

In a simple watercolor wash, only a single color is used. However, depth can be added by using more hues in a gradient, You can start adding fresh watercolor to a wet paint surface. The second color can have a more intense version of the same hue of a different hue. With a wet surface, the colors will blend slightly and create a natural gradient in the tones. 

Layering watercolors

Dimensions can be created by adding layers of the watercolor once the color of the paint has dried. Be sure that the paper is also dried, or else the colors will unwantedly blend together and get messy. Do not add much water to the second color since this can dampen the initial color, thus blending the colors. 

Dry brush

This requires little paint and water to create a scratchy brushstroke. This can be used for an entire painting but is still perfect for creating texture. Mix your pigment, making sure that the paint mixture is not that wet. Dip the dry brush into the paint and remove excess moisture. Brush lightly across the surface and this can highlight the texture of the paper. 

Watercolor blooms

Blooms can be created when very wet paint spreads on a drier area of a painting. When you apply wet paint on a damp wash, the liquid forces the original pigment out and creates irregularly shaped splotches. Lay down a colorful wet wash and let it dry a little. Load the brush with water and touch it lightly to the paper. Blooms are created by drops of water. 

Lines, Hatching, and Crosshatching

Lines of any size and shape can be painted with the use of watercolor. Place lines beside each other or layer them perpendicular to each other for a hatching or cross-hatching effect. For clean lines, you can use a small, pointed brush and load it with pigment with the use of a dash of water. Paint a line on the paper and the shade can be determined by the amount of water used. 

Sponge painting

A textured sponge is also an unimportant tool to paint foliage on trees or sand on a beach. All you need to do is to dip it into the pigment and press it on the paper. 

White wall art wall

White wall art wall

If you want to create a light and breezy atmosphere in your home, this gallery wall with beach prints is perfect!

Japanese Restaurant Interior

Japanese cuisine themed ideas banner

Sushi anyone? Many people have loved this dish and there is something into it that makes it comforting and pleasurable. A Japanese restaurant is never complete without sushi and other signature dishes. However, there is more to a Japanese restaurant than just the food. In addition to the menu and service, the overall appearance and ambiance of the Japanese restaurant are important. All of these factors complete the Japanese restaurant experience that will take you to the Far East with a snap of the finger. Planning to start your own Japanese restaurant business? Here are some interesting ideas that will help you with your brand.

See and feel the ambiance

The culture and tradition of the Japanese have greatly influenced the aesthetics and architecture of Japanese homes and restaurants. By principle, the Japanese-styled interior revolves around uncluttered and clean living, sticking to order, balance, love for natural beauty, and ancient costumes. 

If you have watched Japanese tea ceremonies and other traditions, you will fully understand and appreciate the interior of every Japanese home and restaurant. Japanese restaurants have that relaxing touch that will make you enjoy your food more. 

Starting the Japanese restaurant business

Starting a Japanese restaurant is quite challenging but rewarding. Think about the different factors that need to be considered and incorporated to be successful in the business. Examples are the location, market for Japanese cuisine, and available resources, especially the budget. Be sure that you have devised a marketing and business plan. You will also need to hire professional staff members, such as experienced Japanese food and sushi chefs, interior designers or decorators, and servers. 

Characteristics of a Japanese restaurant

Achieving an authentic Japanese restaurant is not that hard, especially if you are a fan of Japanese food and culture. Some elements distinguish a Japanese restaurant from other Asian restaurants. In terms of the interior appearance, Japanese culture has respect and love for nature. As such, the interior appearance should reflect this passion. Bring nature in with traditional plants such as bamboo and bonsai. Palm and orchids work well with traditional plants. The important thing is that you make the restaurant look natural, green, and simple. You can enhance the look with wooden elements around the restaurant. 

In addition to plants, water is another important element that will boost the Japanese appearance of your restaurant. The sound of water has a calming effect and can evoke a tranquil room environment. 

Adding shoji adds to the beauty of the interior. Shoji is a Japanese screen that slides back and forth. This is used as a replacement for doors to save up space and likewise allow natural light in the room. The screen is usually made up of fine translucent paper found inside a wooden grid. 

The entry or “genkan” is also an important concept of Japanese culture. Guests are greeted in this area while shoes are taken off and replaced with indoor slippers. Add shelves in the entryway to store the shoes and remember that this should look simple and made up of wooden elements. It should be uncluttered and the furniture pieces are mostly low to the ground. In many instances, floor cushions are used instead of furniture pieces. 

Japanese restaurant interior designs also have a minimalist appearance. Remember that the restaurant should always be clean, uncluttered, and simple. Use culture-inspired furniture pieces, made up of wood, clean-lined and modern. When it comes to lighting, it is recommended to have angular and modern lighting. These help in imitating Japanese-styled lanterns.

Cool Restaurant, Happy Customers

Art Wall 187

Today, people have become more adventurous when it comes to choosing restaurants. While others may still be traditional, others are searching for something extraordinary in addition to the menu and services. One of the reasons why restaurants have loyal customers is due to the ambiance and experience they offer. The food revolution has reanimated the restaurant experience as people search for new spots for food and aesthetics. 

If asked, what do you look for in a restaurant? Probably, the first answer that we will hear is the menu. Others go for self-reward, to relax, to have a good conversation, to experience something new, and be delighted with the sights, sounds, and smells inside the restaurant. 

A restaurant can be considered to be successful if the diner translates them into a memorable, aesthetically pleasing experience. Restaurants with appealing interiors make their customers happy and gain their loyalty. 

Simple restaurant interior design for new owners

Starting up your own restaurant business is quite exciting, and challenging. Many things need to be considered, researched, experimented with, and presented. From the menu that will be prepared to the interior design, starting up a restaurant need to be wholistic. 

Entrepreneurs have different mindsets when it comes to starting their businesses. Some would want to gamble and invest a large sum of money, while others may not be risk-takers. The restaurant interior design greatly depends on the theme. There are various ideas to create a welcoming interior without going bankrupt before the business even starts. 

For instance, do away with tablecloths as they may be costly and are only common at weddings, banquets, and other formal events. Having linens on the tables may likewise send a wrong message to diners for being an expensive restaurant. You may also opt to create your menu instead of having them printed and laminated. Buy simple menu jackets and print the menu yourself. Be creative and imaginative with the wall design you are going to use. For instance, instead of using expensive wall art, you may pick the right stencil design and design the wall with your family. 

Modern restaurant interior design that you will love

Many people love going to restaurants because of the ambiance. There are two types of restaurants, one that serves food during the day and the other one that serves at night. Those that serve food during the day are more like fast food and quick snacks, while those which serve food during the evening offer a wide range of food and drink wherein diners tend to stay longer and become more comfortable. 

The entryway of a modern restaurant must be welcoming. This is also a place where diners can wait while their table is being prepared. The dining area is the most important part of the restaurant and it is a must that they look impressive. The design can be anything, and the most important thing is that the tables should be given enough space between them to provide privacy to the customers. Lighting is also important as it set the mood in addition to room color. The restroom should also be well designed so that guests will feel comfortable when they use it. 

A Brief History of Photography

Since the advent of photography, it has affected the way of life and how people see the world. It has the ability to capture the moments, even the briefest event in one’s life. Photographs can also represent society and influence others to a change that can be beneficial or detrimental. Read on to learn more about photography, its history, and how it is shaped these days. 

In all the technology that we know, photography is one that has a brief history but has the most impact in the world that we know today. From a plain box that took blurry photos, we now have DSLRs and smartphones. We never expected that photography will be this fantastic. The story of photography is not that long and in fact, quite fascinating. 

The term “photography” is attributed to Sir John Herschel in 1839. Although the term was coined in the 19th century, the basic concept has been around since the 5th century BC. It was in the 11th century that an Iraqi scientist developed the camera obscura in which the art was born. Although this crude technology did not record images, it projected the onto a surface. The images were also upside down. The first camera obscura used a pinhole in a tent to project an image from outside the tent to the darkened area. In the 17th century, camera obscura further improved and became more portable because of its smaller size. Basic lenses were also introduced during this time as such focusing of images has improved.

It was in the late 1930s when Joseph Nicephore Niepce of France, used a portable camera obscura to expose a pewter plate coated with bitumen to light. Simultaneously, daguerreotypes, emulsion plates, and wet plates were developed. 

In those days, photography can only be afforded by professionals and the wealthy. This was changed by George Eastman when he started the company Kodak in the 1880s. He developed a flexible roll film that did not require changing the solid plates. As such, he was able to develop a self-contained box camera that can hold 100 film exposures. However, the camera does not have any focusing adjustment since it had only a small single lens.

In the 1930s, photographers used small 35mm cameras to capture images. This technology was used in the two great wars and captured images of soldiers during and after the battles. While the 35mm is gaining popularity, Polaroid introduced the Model 95 which used a process to develop film inside the camera. Although this camera is expensive, it captured the attention of the public because of its convenience and magic, so to say. However, Polaroid stopped manufacturing their film in 2008, and no one was ever successful in copying their technology. 

Years passed and cameras continuously evolved according to the needs of the consumers. Cameras became more available to the public and made more compact. Shooting images can be controlled in which the cameras can calculate speed, aperture, and focus. Amazingly, this technology has made the lives of photographers and other users more convenient as they can focus more on the composition. 

In the digital age, images can be stored electronically. Films are no longer needed with the cameras developed by various companies, such as Canon, Nikon, Pentax, and others. 

Seascape or Mountainscape – Your Choice

Limestone and Crystal Seas poster

If you are planning for a getaway this summer, then there may be a lot on your list. You do not even have to leave the country for the vacation you deserve. Throughout the year, we have been hectic with our schedules. From the deadlines that we need to beat at work, to the errands we have to accomplish at home. Our plates may sometimes be overflowing with things to do that we tend to forget to take a break to destress and recharge ourselves. 

In the Philippines, there are a lot of travel destinations that can meet our needs. You can choose from a wide range of places. Depending on your budget and availability, there is always the right vacation spot for you. For many of us, there are only two types of places to go. It’s either the mountains for some adventure camping or the beach for a cool and refreshing break. Whatever the choice is, the goal is to go on a furlough. 

Going on mountain climbing is not for the faint of heart. Depending on the mountain that you would like to try, it takes a lot more than just the desire and love for nature. We know that getting close to nature is one of the keys to rejuvenating. However, you also need the strength and stamina to move up and reach the summit. If you have done this trip when you were at the right age, then you must have remembered the very first time you tried this activity.

Starting from the foot of the mountain, you will see yourself about to take on some of nature’s challenges. You will walk for some kilometers with gears that weigh almost the same as you. This is why it is highly recommended to pack lightly. Take only the things that you need. The most important stuff to have are water and food. Believe us when we say that you will need them a lot on this trip. 

Traversing the hiking path is fun and exciting. You will have the opportunity to breathe pure and clean air along with the sight of luscious greens. Walking up the path will also give you the chance to meet other hikers. This trip will also make you feel how to be on top of the clouds and see the world from another angle. 

Seeing the mountains and being part of it is a new kind of adventure. The fun and excitement are at a different levels. The adrenaline rush is unexplainable. Some of the best mountains to climb in the Philippines are Mt. Halcon, Mt. Pinatubo, Mt. Pulag, and Mt. Apo. 

On the other hand, if mountain climbing is not your thing, then you may choose to go to the seas and beaches. Having 7,100 islands, the country is filled with beach resorts and diving sites. The sophisticated details, such as underwater rivers and cave formations add an element of exotic adventure to your vacation. The dry season or summer is considered to be the best time to visit these paradises. Therefore, start planning your vacation between November to April. 

All beaches in the country are captivating. Along with breezes and soft sand, they have something remarkable to offer that cannot be seen in other countries. They are simply stunning and you can feast your eyes on caves, corals, and marine life. 

So, choosing between the two may be difficult at times. Why suffer when you can have both of the best worlds. With the different modes of transportation we have, reaching your chosen destinations will not be a problem. Only by going to these places, you will truly say that the Philippines is rich in beautiful places and biodiversity.

Bring The Ambiance Of The Sea To Your Home

Seaside Flowers poster

The sea is one of the popular images in books and movies. It is also a great idea to give any living space the ambiance of the sea. As such, your home will have a beach-like atmosphere that is perfect for the summer. In addition to the ambiance, you can use beach posters to personalize your rooms. Experts believe that the decors that you display in your home are reflections of who and what you are. Moreover, the sea has many meanings that have been recorded throughout the years. Read on to learn more about the sea and why it is great to have that beach ambiance in your home. 

The symbolism of the sea

For many centuries, images of the sea can be found in different forms. These include literature, art, poetry, film, theater, and music. Artists have different interpretations of the sea or ocean. Some may see it as a hostile environment because of the various creatures living in them. Different countries have their respective mythology about popular sea creatures. Examples are the Kraken in Norse mythology and you have probably seen this creature in some popular Hollywood films. 

Dreams about seas are associated with the emotional state of mind. Going to the beach is fun and exciting, and this is one of the most awaited activities when summertime begins. Beaches in dreams represent you being sporty and energetic. It may also mean that you want to experience a new adventure and leave the dull and boring life.

Beach posters for a refreshing vibe

Over the years, posters have been used by homeowners and designers as wall coverings. These wall decors hide any imperfections of the walls. In addition to covering the flaws, posters add value and beauty to any living space.  

These days, many poster companies create prints with fun and exciting designs. The poster designs help in achieving the interior style that you want for your homes. Interestingly, some of the favorites are images of beaches, seas, or oceans. These designs come in different themes and styles that are perfect to be matched with any interior design style. 

Displaying beach-themed posters is just like creating a paradise in your home. Imagine yourself having a vacation at one of the beach resorts in your country. Though the display of beach-themed posters may not be the real deal, you will be creating wall art that will serve as an inspiration to others. 

A touch of nature through the use of posters is also a great idea to make any living space look and feel more inviting and relaxing. Wall art that depicts the sea can be an impressive view while reading or studying in your bedroom. They may also help you concentrate while doing your nightly yoga or meditation.  

Final thoughts

 

Beach-themed posters are some of the best decor items that you can add to your walls. They have a natural beauty that can help you achieve a paradise-looking room interior. You can also add matching decor elements such as water, stones, and sand. The incorporation of tropical plants can also enhance the beach wall art making it the focal point of your home. 

Swim Away! Swim Away!

Sky meets sea poster

As we feel the heat this summer we go our ways to make our bodies cool. Any ideas on your mind? For most of us, the most popular way is to go swimming. This is not the time to be hydrophobic as going for a swim will beat the heat that we are experiencing these days. Seems like every year, the temperature rises and there are many factors to blame. Global warming is surely hitting the planet. 

Since the lowering of alert levels in NCR and others, many people have gone to tourist destinations around the country. Where else will they go, but in beaches, private resorts, pool areas, and others? However, there are those who prefer to stay home and relax. This is when having a good relaxing home environment comes in.

Just by checking out some web pages, you will be bombarded with thousands of venues to spend the summer. You can go to some of the favorite beaches and resorts in the country. Batangas, for one, is packed with resorts that sometimes you will be overwhelmed with the numbers. Laguna is also a haven for resorts and private pools for rent. However, if you want to see and experience white sand beaches, then go further south in Boracay and Palawan. As internationally renowned islands in the Philippines, these travel destinations have received thousands of international and local guests. 

If you have already chosen your vacation spot, then what’s next on the menu? Of course, activities that can be done with your family or friends. The first thing that will pop out of your mind is water activities. As a come-on to potential customers, many resorts include different water activities in the package they are offering. 

Water activities never go out of trend, especially during the summers. Swimming for one has a lot of benefits to the body. To be honest, this is not an easy sport, and for many individuals, it takes them months or even years before they learn the basic strokes. Swimming is not for everybody. Some may even prefer to stay on the shores and make sandcastles. 

Heard of banana boats? Funny as they may sound but, yeah, they are air-filled and banana-shaped water vessels. Then after the ride with the banana boat, level it up with a jetski ride. Personally, these jet-powered rides are not recommended since the force they emit can destroy and kill corals and other water organisms. 

Yes, swimming and other water activities are fun and exciting. However, just keep in mind that we are just borrowing the sea for recreational activities and the flora and fauna need to be preserved. After all, we are the stewards of nature. This may sound like being an environmentalist but nothing is wrong with giving a few reminders before immersing yourself in non-stop water action. 

Maximize your stay in beach resorts and take a peek at the under-the-sea community. There you will be able to appreciate what nature has in store for us. Snorkeling is good enough to see the corals and schools of fish. 

Staying at home and enjoying the comfort of your bed and backyard is not bad at all. All you need to do is create an ambiance that is comfortable and relaxing. Personalize your walls with adornments and trendy art. These will help in turning your home into a vacation spot.