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Christmas is never complete without a Christmas tree. Even in movies, Christmas trees are so special that decorating them involves all the members of the family. Over the years, the display and decorating of Christmas trees have been practiced around the globe. The trees used can be natural ones or synthetic. Whatever the material used, the sight of Christmas trees will bring the spirit of the holiday season as well as a nostalgic atmosphere. 

A brief history of Christmas trees

In the past, evergreen fir trees have been used to celebrate winter festivals of both the pagans and the Christians. The branches of the tree have been used by the pagans to decorate their homes during the winter solstice. On the other hand, Christians used the tree as a sign of everlasting life with God. the Romans, likewise decorated their temples with evergreen trees during the festival of Saturnalia. 

However, up to these days, the evolution of evergreen trees to Christmas trees is not yet that clear. It was assumed that it started a thousand years ago in Northern Europe wherein cherry or hawthorn plants were used. Some people, though, find it expensive to decorate their homes with trees. They then resolved in making pyramids of wood and decorate them with paper, apples, and candles. 

The first known Christmas tree that was displayed in public was in 1510 in Riga, Latvia. This was erected by men with black hats, danced around it, and then set it on fire. From Germany, Christmas trees were brought and spread to the United Kingdom by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Prince Albert recalled that during his childhood, he celebrated Christmas with a tree. Eventually, he shared this tradition with his wife and in 1848, the London News published the couple with a decorated tree. This image became common and one of the favorites of the people in Great Britain. 

Christmas trees around the globe

Though Christmas is celebrated differently from around the world, Christmas trees are probably one of the most common views seen. 

• In Rio De Janeiro, a 279-foot Christmas tree is seen floating at the Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon. The tree was likewise surrounded by fireworks during the launch in November 2004. 
• One of the world’s most recognized Christmas trees has been displayed at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in Manhattan since 1930. 45, 000 lights are turned on each year and are usually accompanied by live concerts. 
• In the United Kingdom, Christmas is viewed as a time of gratitude. This led to a Christmas tree being displayed in London’s Trafalgar Square. This has been a traditional annual gift of the people of Norway since 1947 as gratitude to England during their help in World War 2.
• In France, the people prefer Christmas trees to be more traditional in appearance such as the one displayed in posh Galeries Lafayette Department Store.
• A Christmas tree made of Lego bricks can also be found in London, UK.
• A Christmas tree that stands at 82-feet can be seen outside the window of the Pope’s room in Vatican City. This tree is a gift from the German state of Bavaria. 
• Since the term of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, every American president has officiated the lighting ceremony of the National Christmas Tree in Washington DC. 

With a few weeks left before Christmas, you may already have completed shopping for gifts to be given to your loved ones. Decors are all around us amidst the COVID 19 virus still lurking like a rat waiting for its chance to steal food. However, it is still not too late to make your home perfect for the holidays. In fact, there are tons of ideas and inspiration that you can use to prepare your home for the Christmas celebration this year and make it look and feel festive. With the classic red and green color scheme that we have known since childhood, you can give it a twist and turn to create an eye-catching Christmas-themed interior for a perfect and memorable Christmas. 

Classic with a twist

Many people love the classic. Why not? There are many elements in the style that would remind you of your childhood. Although the concept is a bit non-specific, it still gives many homeowners and designers goosebumps as they recall their past. Classic design style suits almost anything. Black and white is probably the most popular theme that can easily give your interior a classic look for the holidays. 

Boosting the standard

When it comes to interior decoration, there will always be standards that would serve as a basis for other design styles. Sticking with the traditional is not bad. However, some people may find this a bit dull and boring as many are looking for something new and creative. For instance, the addition of Christmas accessories in candy colors will give any room a modern and stylish look. You can also add ribbons if you feel a little crafty. 

Less is more

Less is not a bad idea, unlike what others think. Here are a few minimalist decorating ideas that can truly give a great look to your home. 

• Fewer items used, the better. This is the whole idea of using a minimalist design style. 
• Buy Christmas trees that come with lights. Arranging the lights may be quite a challenge for some. With this, you will spend less time arranging the lights for your trees. 
• Do not use too many colors as this will make your home look chaotic. Use shades of a few chosen colors so that these will give you a trendy and chic interior. 
• Use fruits and vegetables as decoration. These will save you money and your home will also have a fresh and natural feel and smell. 
• Use one color of lighting for your Christmas tree as it can make a calm and relaxing vibe. 
• A simple pinecone can be used as a decoration. Fill a plate or bowl with pinecones along with candies for a more wonderful holiday vibe. 
• Use ribbons to decorate the tree or your surroundings. 

Materials for Christmas

Christmas decors need not have to be made from soft materials all the time. The use of metal pieces as the decor has proven to be a perfect choice. Metal decors look best with dark interiors as they can be highlighted. 

Flowers are still great

Want to add life to your home for the holidays? Use simple flowers or wreaths for a look that you have been longing for. You can place them anywhere and they would still look great. Add them to the door, window, or you can create a centerpiece of flowers for a warm and comfortable living space. 

Let it snow!

Snowflakes are some of the favorite Christmas decors. Hang them on the wall or the curtain and do not just use one size. 

Decorating your space is one of the ways to personalize it. This may be the best thing that you can do to make it look more appropriate for the different activities that are done at home. Especially these days that many people work and study at home, personalizing it will make it look more conducive for working and learning. So whatever you do, decorating your space can totally transform the appearance as well as the atmosphere. Here, we have some cool ideas that you can use to customize your home. 

Add your favorite scents

 Bringing a new scent to your home can give it new life. With the addition of a few scented candles or incense sticks, you can make a total transformation to your home in a cool and unique way. Be sure to use scents that are calming and relaxing.

Removable wallpaper

Removable wallpaper is one of the favorite wall decors of renters. Installing removable wallpaper is a simple way to add a pop of color to your room. It can likewise highlight a wall in any room and can give the kitchen backsplash a more trendy and stylish appeal. The good thing about this wall covering is that you can easily remove them when the time comes that you need to leave the place. 

A bar cart for a more modern look

Owning a bar cart is one of the perks of being an adult. This is s perfect item for your liquor collection. Enjoy having drinks with your family and friends at your very own bar. No need to place your wine bottles and hard alcohol on the kitchen counters. A bar cart can easily be placed in the living room for you to have an instant party with your guests. 

Indoor plants

A little green in your home will have a big impact on making your interior look impressive. Indoor plants not only make any space look vibrant. They also offer health benefits, especially in cleansing indoor air. 

Add mirror

Mirrors do not only reflect your beauty. They also make your rooms look wonderful. Moreover, mirrors can make your interior appear larger. 

Hang wall art

Bare walls are nice to look at. However, you can still make it look fantastic with wall art. Hang one large-sized art or a few small ones. These will make an interesting wall gallery. It is also recommended to have the art in frames. However, if framing is not part of your budget, then you can make use of washi tape. 

Change the lighting

Overhead lighting is great but you can make your home look better with the addition of a few light sources. Try to add a floor lamp or a table lamp. Candles are also great to set a romantic mood in your home. 

Rearrange your furniture

Rearranging the layout of your furniture gives you a new perspective. This will also give a refreshing feel that many people need especially during stressful times. Rearranging the furniture pieces is also one of the best solutions to give your room more space. 

Add rugs

Rugs can give structure to a space. They can also add texture to the floor and even to the whole room. Even a small rug in the kitchen or your bedroom can have a big impact on the overall appearance of your rooms.

Christmas trees are probably the most popular decor that is seen around the world. The history goes back to the use of evergreens in ancient Egypt and Rome. The tradition continued with the Germans and the candlelit trees were brought to the United States in the 1800s. Read on to know more about the Christmas tree and its origins. 

The beginnings of Christmas trees

Even before the spread of Christianity, people have regarded plants and trees that remained green all year to be special. People during ancient times hung evergreen boughs over their doors and windows, just like how we hang them these days. 

During winter solstice in the Northern hemisphere, ancient people believed that the sun god had become sick and weak. The solstice is celebrated because this means that the sun god will become well again. The evergreens reminded them of all the other green plants and that summer would return with more blooms. 

The god, Ra, was worshipped by the ancient Egyptians. When Ra began to recover from his illness during the winter solstice, the Egyptians filled their homes with a green palm that represents the triumph of life over death.  

The Romans celebrated the solstice with a feast that they called Saturnalia. This was to honor Saturn, the Roman god of agriculture. The solstice is a reminder that the farms would again be green and productive. As such, their homes were decorated with boughs of evergreen. 

German Christmas trees

Records have shown that Christmas trees should be credited to the Germans. During the 16th century, Christians added trees to their homes and decorated them. Many families also created pyramids of wood and decorated them with evergreens and candles. People also believed that the 16th-century Protestant reformer, Martin Luther, was the first to add lighted candles to a tree. He shared this idea with his family when he erected a tree in the main room and decorated it with lighted candles. 

Christmas trees in America

Christmas trees in America are never known until the 19th-century when the German settlers of Pennsylvania displayed trees. As early as the mid-1700s, German settlers already have community trees that closely resemble the Christmas trees that we know today. However, the Americans did not accept Christmas trees immediately in their culture as they see them as pagan symbols. 

It was in the 1890s that Christmas ornaments arrived from Germany to the United States. This was also the period of the rise of the popularity of Christmas trees. In contrast with the Europeans, American Christmas trees usually are tall and reach from floor to ceiling. By the 20th century, Americans decorated the trees with homemade ornaments along with apples, nuts, and marzipan cookies. The availability of electricity made it possible to use Christmas lights that will make the trees glow. 

Since then, Christmas trees have been mass-produced and made available to the public worldwide. For countries where evergreens are expensive, artificial trees were made available commercially along with Christmas decors and lights. These days, almost everybody has their own Christmas tree in their homes. Others created their own version of the tree with the use of twigs and branches 

Over the years, various interior design styles have been used by homeowners and designers to make their homes look perfect. Traditional and Transitional interior design styles are two of the favorites of many homeowners and designers. Both may have many similarities, but there are elements that make them special from each other. The first thing to do is to study the two styles and choose which one best fits your taste. When you do some comparing, you will notice that there are obvious differences that make each style extraordinary. Read on to learn more about the two interesting design styles. 

Traditional style – what it really is?

The traditional interior design style is characterized by ornate interiors that are inspired by a 17th or 18th-century European countryside home. The appearance is often warm, inviting, elegant, and luxurious. The interior usually features furnishings and decors that have curves and elegant designs. The traditional interior design style is also marked by elegant furniture pieces, intricate woodworks, heavy drapery, and different patterns. This design style will surely bring the past to the modern world. 

Characteristics of Traditional design style

The traditional design style is influenced by 19th-century European decor. It is a timeless design that evokes comfort and elegance. The presence of and antiques and classic art pieces complete the appearance of your home. 

It is also important to have dark and rich colors especially with the materials used. Examples of colors that are commonly seen are red, brown, and green tones. Floral prints and plaids are likewise common. When it comes to furniture pieces, they are often large and elegant. These include china cabinets, chandeliers, decorative pillows, mirrors, vases, and candleholders.

The beauty of the Transitional design style

The transitional interior design style blends well with contemporary and traditional styles. It is a combination of both classic and modern furniture and finishes. The appearance of the interior is less uptight and more relaxed. The addition of textiles, wood tones, and other decorative textures gives depth to the rooms. If you love the combination of classic and modern looks against a neutral backdrop, then this design style is the right one for you.

Characteristics of Transitional design style

Sometimes it is confusing to know the differences between traditional and transitional interior design styles. However, knowing the principles and significance of the characteristics will give you an idea of which style works best for you. Here are some of the common characteristics o the design style that you will surely adore.

The combination of classic curves and modern lines in a neutral setting brings the best to your home. It is also common to see comfortable furnishings and soft lines. The color palette is usually kept minimum. In addition to these, the motif is usually elegant and timeless. These characteristics create a more modern appeal. 

Which works best for you?

Now that you already have some idea about traditional and transitional interior design styles, you will be able to decide which style to use in your homes. The two styles may have many similarities, yet they both have the respective traits that make them even more extraordinary. 

The minimalist interior design style is one of our favorites. It has the beauty and appeal that can give your freedom. Minimalism can be defined as a tool that assists you in finding the best with many opportunities available. The removal of any distraction so that one can focus on the more important things is the highlight of the minimalist interior design style. Being a minimalist is different from being simple. Minimalism means promoting the things that we value most and excluding the others that may cause distractions. 

What really is minimalism?

In the world of art and design, minimalism is expressed in a way that encompasses even beyond the social, geographical, and political divisions. The design style is very similar to modern interior design that involves only the bare essentials. As such, any living space will have a simple and uncluttered look. The minimalist design style is characterized by simplicity, clean lines, and a monochromatic palette with a few colors only used as accents. The interior also has an open floor plan, great lighting, functional furniture, and a handful of essentials. 

A brief history of minimalism

Minimalism is most commonly associated with the Western art movement that started in the 1950s. The movement focused on the idea that “art should have its own reality and not be an imitation of some other thing”. The style is influenced by many things such as abstract expressionism. However, minimalism focused more on geometric shapes, subtle colors, and the phrase “less is more”. 

The Japanese concept of wabi-sabi also influenced minimalism. The concept is all about imperfection and impermanence. Japanese minimalism uses clean lines, neutral tones, carefully placed tatami mats, and natural materials. In fact, many celebrity homes use the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi. 

The minimalist interior design style that we know today has a mixture of characteristics. Probably because of the different influences it had over the years. But the core concept of simplicity, clean lines, neutral tones, and unclutteredness never disappears. 

The Scandinavian decor and design style is also influenced by minimalism. It is common for Scandinavian homes to have light wood, dried greenery, and clean lines. 

Achieve the minimalist interior design style in your home

Since your home has different rooms, you can easily incorporate the design style by following some tips. For instance, the living room can look perfect with white or neutral walls, uncluttered coffee tables, soft colors, geometric patterns, and plants. These can help achieve an inviting and cozy atmosphere especially with lots of natural light getting in. For the dining room, the colors should likewise be simple. Choose neutral or black accents along with ceramic dinnerware in light hues to complete the view. 

The bedroom can be your sanctuary and should have an appearance that is relaxing and comfortable. It is all about creating a tranquil environment with the use of minimalist concepts. Use blankets and pillows in similar tones as well as a nightstand that appears simple. Be sure that they blend into the overall appearance of the room. 

Final thoughts

Decorating and styling your home is not a joke. It means that you have to be creative in your own way. The minimalist interior design style is not that hard to achieve. All you need to do is to incorporate the core concept of the style into your home and you will have the interior design of your dreams. 

Bedroom is a special place for every household member. It is where you can have rest and relax from the daily routine and forget about your worries. Since it is your personal sanctuary, it needs interesting decor to make the atmosphere inviting and relaxing. There is a wide range of decors that will make the necessary transformation. While choosing the right bedroom decor, you need to consider several factors, such as room size, furniture pieces, and wall colors. 

The decors you choose can instantly change the beauty of your bedroom. This is the reason why you need to plan carefully before adding any poster. Themes may vary and are available in various designs. The most important aspect in choosing the right design is how they combine with the interior design style of the whole room. Choose the poster design that will stand out or will enhance the overall design of your bedroom. Here are some ideas that you can employ when decorating the bedroom with posters.

Floral prints

Floral prints are always safe to use. However, different flowers evoke different kinds of energy. Experts suggest not to have complete freedom when choosing the type of flower. There are flowers that are appropriate for the bedroom. Here are some examples:

• The cherry blossom represents freshness and innocence and is ideal for newlywed couples. 
• Peony Flowers are known to attract love, romance, and warmth. However, avoid this flower to couples. 
• Roses help improve the relationships among the members of the family. 
• Orchids symbolize love, beauty, and fertility. 
• Narcissus is the flower that represents career and education as well as good luck and prosperity. 

Landscapes

Landscapes are fantastic poster designs that have been used in both homes and offices. If you are going to use this design in the bedroom, choose the poster the depicts good and calm weather. Images of typhoons, hurricanes, storms, and the likes bring bad vibes to the bedroom. 

Animals

The images of animals evoke positive emotions, and the urge to take care of your loved ones. Avoid posters of predators and other aggressive animals. Posters of animals with their partners are also great to display as they bring harmony and balance to your life. 

Abstract art

The good thing about abstract art is its versatility. They suit well in every room including the bedroom. Take into consideration the colors and significance of the art. We understand that sometimes it is difficult to interpret the meaning of abstract art. But that is what makes them amazing. Avoid too bright or too aggressive designs as these will not help you relax in the bedroom. 

Nature-inspired posters

If still not sure what poster to display, go with nature-inspired art. It is a universal theme and the safest design to display in any room. Just like in any theme, it is best to choose calm and placatory images. Posters with cool designs like greenery and botanical prints are proven to calm and relax the mind. On the other hand, posters of different landscapes like mountains and horizons give an impression that the room appears bigger. 

Travel posters

If you are a travel enthusiast, you can bring the adventure to your bedroom. There are many travel posters available in the market. These posters feature the different travel destinations and landmarks around the globe or the country. As such, your bedroom will have a style that will reflect your character and personality. 

Black and white prints

Black and white posters are perfect if you want your bedroom to have that classic and retro appearance. These posters never go out of style and they likewise evoke a minimalist effect. These prints are ideal if you want your bedroom to have that elegant and sophisticated vibe. 

Christmas is fast approaching! In the Philippines, you can already feel the spirit of the holidays when you hear Christmas songs being played everywhere and dazzling decors that will make your home stand out in the neighborhood. If you are still looking for the right decor to spice up your home, start with the walls as there are a lot of creative inspirations that will make your home look appealing and inviting.

Christmas wall decorations

Christmas is one of the most-awaited seasons of the year. This is also the time to transform your home into a fairytale-like abode. You actually have the freedom how to make it wonderful with interesting ideas you have. With a little creativity and the right decorations, you will be able to have an appearance that is inviting and festive. 

These days, it is common to decorate the home with a theme in mind. Themes may be different at times as long as they coincide with the colors or subject. For instance, Winter-themed Christmas is usually decorated with the colors white and silver. Thus, your home will have a stylish and trendy look that will take you and your home to the North Pole. You may also add modern art with silver elements and textured ornaments. What makes it more interesting is the addition of snowflakes that will make your home look cooler. 

You may have an idea and just add the necessary elements to successfully achieve it. Sometimes, we think that transforming your home will be costly, but there are certain ways to still achieve it without breaking the bank. The most important thing is you put your heart into this project and everything will look lovely. 

Christmas posters

Posters are one of the most commonly used wall decors that are used in homes and offices. There is a wide range of choices and are available in different designs, sizes, and finishes. Posters are easy to use and you do not need extra effort to display them on your walls. In Artdesign, we offer different holiday poster designs that will suit your taste and theme. You can also order them online which will make things easy and convenient for you. 

Over the years, Christmas poster designs are usually that of Santa, Christmas tree, garlands, reindeer, snowmen, and wrapped presents. These poster designs are cool as they are and all you have to do is pick a spot in your home where you can display them. Christmas posters have colors of their own that will complete the festive theme. It is common to see the colors red, green, gold, silver, and white. As such, with proper color coordination, your home will be perfect before the Christmas party begins. 

Other cool Christmas decors

Posters are not only the decors that will transform your home or office. There are other choices to upgrade your walls this season. Examples are canvases, wreaths, garlands, snowflakes, lights, and wall stickers. You can always visit shops to look for the right decor. Just remember that the spirit of Christmas is not only about decorations. It’s about celebrating the coming of our Saviour to our lives. 

The birth of your baby is one of the greatest gifts in the world. You have waited for several months and now that your baby has finally arrived, there are a lot of changes that may happen to your life and to the whole family. However, before that, there are some preparations that need to be done. The baby room will soon be the sanctuary of your little. Preparing it before the arrival is crucial so that it becomes comfortable and relaxing. Moreover, the baby room also needs to be multi-functional. Read on to learn a few tips about decorating the baby room.

Choose the right wall color

Choosing the color for the baby room is probably the first thing that comes to your mind. Why not? This is the very first thing that you will see upon entering the room. It is therefore right to prepare the room before the birth of your little one. You may already have an idea about gender so there are different colors to choose from that will personalize the whole baby room. Check out the list below to see if they fit your needs for the baby room:

• Red is usually associated with passion and aggression. Be careful with using this color when using it in the nursery. Do not paint the entire wall red and do not even make it the principal color of the room. Use it only to accent the wall or use decorative items of this color. 
• Orange is another warm color. It stimulates communication and friendship. Be careful as well with the use of orange as too much may be too stimulating. 
• Yellow is a cheerful and sunny color. It provides more energy and contributes to better memory with the lighter hues help in concentrating. Too much yellow may likewise be too agitating for the baby.
• Green is a neutral color that can be used in any room. It is the color of health and well-being. It is a good choice for the nursery especially if you decide to use lighter and softer shades. 
• Blue is a cool color that is calming and relaxing. It is a good choice for the nursery and can be used whether you have a boy or a girl. Choose the lighter hues since the dark shades can be too depressing. 
• White is one of the common choices of parents. It is the color of purity and innocence. It offers calmness but it is recommended to use it in combination with other colors and decors. 
• Brown is also a good choice for the baby room. It is warm and pleasant and it’s better to combine it with other colors such as blue, beige, and green.

Personalized Baby Posters and Pictures

In many instances, the first thing that comes into your mind when decorating your room is the use of posters. It is one of the easiest ways to decorate the walls and make the room look warm and bright. Before choosing the poster design, you need to take into consideration the theme of the room first. Also, the color scheme is important so that you will be able to pick the right poster design that will blend. Personalized posters of babies come in different appearances and themes. And the choice depends on your existing interior design style.

A neutral theme for the posters is the safest to use as they can easily blend with any design style that the room has. The image can be anything, from animals to the baby’s first photos. Once displayed on the walls, these posters will make wonderful wall art that your family and friends will surely adore. Other themes that you can create in the nursery with the use of posters are nautical, safari, medieval, and cartoons/ 

These days, parents even make the nursery look lovely with family photos arranged in a random layout. A large-sized customized poster of the baby will even make the wall art more interesting and personalized. 

You will be surprised that home decorating did not start recently. In fact, evidence shows that cave dwellers painted pictures on their walls. However, this came into reality in the 18th century when items became affordable for households. But before that, only the noble and the very rich can afford home decorating. This can be seen through the elegant hand-made furniture and ornate draperies. During those times, decorating the homes was a status symbol. 

Ancient Rome home decorating

The Romans were known to have advanced civilizations in which renowned architecture was built. They also enjoyed displaying their wealth through their homes and lifestyles. The houses they have and halls were decorated lavishly with murals and mosaic designs on the floor. The furniture pieces were personalized to meet their needs. It is also common to see tables and chairs have clawed feet. 

The Renaissance Design

Carpets were known to be owned by wealthy individuals because of the materials and overall design available. Since these decors were expensive, they were not placed on the floors. Instead, they were hung on walls over tables. Wealthy families also hung tapestries on their walls. The floors were covered with rushes or reeds and sprinkled with fragrant herbs. It is also common for the rich in England to use four-post beds as the curtains kept them from the cold weather. 

Elegant room appearance

During the early 18th century, there was an increase in international trade and new educational opportunities. This marked the start of consumerism. Various home decors and furniture pieces, such as wallpaper, rugs, and even pianos became affordable and available to the common people. Many rooms were painted in light colors, with floral prints on wallpapers, patterned carpets, and upholstered furniture pieces. Books were also displayed on shelves as they were still expensive during those times. 

Mass production of decors and furnishings

In the 19th century came the rise of mass production. As such, more people are able to afford home decors to make their homes beautiful. Velvet wallpapers came to popularity and these were usually seen in green and burgundy. Furniture pieces were solid but still offers comfort. They were usually made from oak or mahogany. They were likewise upholstered similar to the patterns of the wallpapers. 

Modernism

The end of World War 2 marked the rise of the Renaissance once again. That is because of home decorations. The focus was then on modernism rather than the traditional. Households in America hosted parties in which they also flaunted their shiny home appliances as part of their home decor. In addition to these, households also were filled with plastic melamine dinnerware as well as coffee tables. 

The Classes 

The home decoration was originally seen in the household of nobles and wealthy families. However, with the rise of the middle classes in the 18th century, ordinary people were able to afford simple and less ornate decors and furnishings. Homes were comprised of basic stools, tables, and benches. Families slept on mattresses that were filled with straw and thistledown. Houses focused more on function and meeting the basic needs of the dwellers instead of the aesthetics.