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Creating a wall gallery is one of the easiest ways to bring style and personality to your space. Any room can have it as it can create a captivating focal point. All you need is a little imagination and artistry to be able to transform any plain-looking wall into something attractive.

The beauty of a wall gallery

Adding a wall gallery is one of the ways to boost the overall appearance of your room. This will add appeal to any plain wall and creates a focal point that can add character and style. In many instances, wall art has been treated as a last resort in interior decorating. This should not be the case as wall galleries must be planned well and executed properly to create an awesome wall design. Creating a wall gallery is all about combining and connecting all the decorative elements to make cohesion.

Try to experiment with mixing and matching various elements to create a compelling wall gallery. The wall decor can be successfully achieved with the use of photos, artworks, or prints. You can likewise add style with the use of frames that blend well with the wall art.

Get inspirations, collect, and choose your style

Every project needs a starting point. There are times that this may be a challenge as there are many ideas to consider. You can check different interior design references such as books, magazines, and websites for inspiration. Once you have identified where and how to start, add the art that you love. Frames are also important as they enhance the poster prints.

Select a theme

Once you have a collection of art, it is recommended to group them according to themes, like nature-inspired, classic art, baby-themed, abstract art, and typography and quotes. The colors must also blend with the overall design of the room.

Plan the layout

This can be done by first placing everything on the floor and arranging them according to your choice. This will give you an overview of how they will appear on the walls. This will also give you the chance to add or reduce the element that you are planning to display.

Start displaying your framed art

Hammering the first nail on the wall may be intimidating for some. But with good planning and preparation, everything will go well. Use a pencil to mark where the nail will go through. You can hang the framed art after all the nails have been placed in their respective places. It also helps to have a tape measure and a level so that errors will be avoided or minimized. After all the framed art has been displayed then it is recommended to mix and match them with other decorative elements. 

For many pet lovers, we are aware that one of the problems in the country is the growing number of stray animals like dogs and cats. In 2019 alone, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society was able to record at least 12 million stray animals. Many of them are afflicted with diseases and pose danger to the public. Animal shelters are becoming crowded as more animals are being rescued every day. Many of the shelters that we know are privately owned and facing some problems in terms of resources, whether financial or human. This is one of the main reasons why people are encouraged to help to save more animals in distress. But why volunteer? Here are some benefits that you can get when you volunteer in an animal shelter.

Good feeling

Being an animal shelter volunteer makes you feel like you are doing the right thing. You become part of the solution to the problem. Part of the job of being a volunteer is that you work with the animals so they can be healthy for foster care. Most of the animals that are sent to shelters are stray and have little to no human interaction. Being with them on a regular basis will develop their trust with humans. This strongly helps them get prepared for future foster parents.

The fruits of your labor

You can instantly the results of your hardships as you begin to work with a fur baby. Remember that many of the animals rescued have minimal human interactions and by showing them some love, their personalities start to come out. Whether you are giving them a bath, taking them for a walk, or simply cuddling them makes a big difference in their lives. 

Volunteers are needed

As more shelters take in more animals, your love and care for the animals are very much needed. There will always be a dog to walk or a cat to groom. It has been observed that giving this care to the animals relieves them of kennel stress. Animals respond differently when they are stressed. Some may become aggressive, others may lose their appetite, and many may increase their frequency of barking or vocalization. Engaging in activities with rescued animals will make them happy and healthy.

Being a volunteer is a good therapy

Being an animal shelter volunteer is good for your total well-being. Studies have shown that spending time with animals helps lower your stress levels and blood pressure. They also help you become physically active as you engage them in various activities. Playing with them has been proven scientifically to increase your levels of serotonin and dopamine. These body chemicals are known to help you become calm and relaxed. 

Memorable professional experience

Being a volunteer is a great way to try a new career. This may be an opportunity to explore a new interest. By volunteering, you will gain new experiences and skills as well as build your own strengths. If you want your resume to be colorful, then the experience you had with the animal shelter is great to add. 

Being a volunteer helps you become responsible in life

Being a volunteer helps you develop yourselves professionally. This includes being on time and managing your time. Moreover, being a volunteer makes you feel like you are part of something that will make a difference in the community

The Zen interior design style is one of the popular interior decorating styles. It evokes a calming and relaxing ambiance that is perfect in any home or space. Though little is known of the origins of the design style, many homeowners and designers prefer it in their homes. Various decorative elements have been created to help achieve the Zen design style. Posters were also designed as inspired by Zen. These prints feature plants, landscapes, and other earthy elements that will help in achieving the style in your homes. 

What is Zen?

Experts believe that the Zen design style is inspired by Buddhist principles. The principles are focused primarily on loving-kindness, calmness, and meditative and open attitudes. Based on the Japanese term for meditation, Zazen, the key elements of the style feature minimalism with a focus on harmony and balance. 

How to achieve Zen design style

Achieving the Zen interior design style may be challenging and four elements need to be considered to be successful with the decorating project. Creating interior design style is exciting especially when all the elements are added. 

The first element is the flow of energy. This means that all the other obstacles such as clutter should be removed to allow the energy to flow freely within the room. Having an open space is important and can be compared to a smooth flow of clear water. As such the rooms dissolve easily with each other. 

It is also of utmost importance to allow daylight to enter and artificial light that mimics the light from the sun. With these, the harmonious colors of the room will be revealed making the interior look more inviting and cozy. Think of adding colors that are close to the elements of nature such as bamboo green, stone gray, matte white, and other soft neutral colors. With the addition of poster art and fabric that have the said colors, you can easily get the job done correctly.

A simple mind is a clear mind. Creating a minimalist room interior can help you live a calm and restful life. Add storage areas to stock your belongings to avoid the accumulation of clutter. Hidden built-in cabinets, for instance, are perfect to store books, kitchenware, clothes, and others.

Lastly, the interior should also evoke versatility wherein every part of the room can be multifunctional to avoid it from being cramped and congested. One good example is a bed that can be transformed into a sofa during the daytime. 

Zen-inspired posters

Think of the walls as a blank canvas to design your wall art. The display of posters is one of the easiest and fastest ways to achieve the Zen interior design style. Many poster prints feature elements of nature and have captured the essence of Zen principles. These prints, when properly arranged on the walls can give an ambiance that is relaxing and comfortable. 

Posters that feature plants, mountains, and the sea are not only attractive. They also evoke a feeling of being at one with the surroundings. Displaying them in the living room can help in setting the mood, especially after coming from a stressful environment. 

Yoga and other light exercise enthusiasts will surely have a great time while enjoying the view displayed on their walls. Not only that these prints evoke beauty, but they will also keep the mind and body calm for better health. 

Did you know that your favorite food has an ancient origin? The world’s favorite fast food has conquered the world. But before that, pizza had a humble origin that we were unaware of. People have been eating pizza for centuries. Of course, the appearance is not similar to what we know nowadays. In the past, people prepared this food with pieces of flatbread, topped with whatever they wanted to add, and served as a simple and tasty meal. Let us see how pizza started and evolved through the years. 

The first pizza in the world

We all know that pizza was born in Italy, but experts believe that the food has a long history. The concept of preparing pizza was first noted by the Ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians. They prepared flatbreads topped with various oils and herbs. In the 6th century BC, Persians also baked flatbreads covered in cheese and dates. Now we know these ingredients as toppings of the bread. However, the modern pizza that we know started as a flatbread that became famous n the poor areas of Naples, Italy. 

Pizza evolution

The truth is, there is no exact date when pizza was created. However, experts were able to at least narrow down the period. It was in the 1500s that tomatoes found their way to Europe from the West. Tomatoes were not easily accepted by the Europeans since they thought that the fruit was poisonous. 

There was even a description in 1799 about dough with tomato sauce and cheese. The Italian census in the late 1700s listed several people as pizza makers (pizolas) in Naples. Now we know that there were a group of professionals who focused on making this great food. 

The great pizza margherita?

Just like in any story, pizza has an unclear origin. In fact, there are different versions. One story claims that pizza was created when the soon-to-be king and queen of Italy visited Naples in 1889. To gain the confidence of the people, the future royals insisted on eating as the common folk did. This includes eating pizza which during those times was considered to be the food for the poor. 

Margherita of Savoy once summoned Rafael Esposito, a known pizola. Several of his pies were then tasted: one with garlic topping; the other one with anchovies; the next with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil; and the last one was named pizza margherita, the name of the future queen. The last pizza has the colors of the Italian flag and was created as a tribute to the future queen. 

The migration to the West

As early as the 1900s, pizza has already made its way to the United States. Places such as Omaha, Nebraska, and Wisconsin have been enjoying the food. However, the popularity incredibly became famous in New York City. Lombardi in Manhattan was the first licensed U.S. pizzeria in 1905. However, pizza historians claimed that there was no evidence that the first pizzeria was in New York. They believed that it may have started across the river in the borough of Brooklyn.

Since then, pizza has been one of the favorites in many countries. It has even evolved into different flavors according to the preferences of the respective nationalities. Certain fruits were even added, especially pineapple, creating what we now call Hawaiian pizza. Although this variety is believed to have originated in Canada and not in Hawaii, it has been loved by many. 

So the next time you order pizza, think about its colorful origins and how it has changed through the years. 

Whether you are from another country or from provinces and other cities of the Philippines, Manila is surely a place worth going to. You may have heard the song, “Manila”, which topped the chart in the 80s. Surely, there are tons to see and experience in the city during those days, as well as today. So what is so special about the city that made it so popular with foreign and local tourists? Here are the things you need to know if visiting Manila is on your bucket list.

No need to fill your pockets with cash

In contrast with other tourist destinations in the country, you do not need to break your bank when going around the city. There are a lot of affordable places to visit and still enjoy the experience. Different landmarks, parks, museums, and other places do not cost that much. In fact, some of them are even free of charge. Take Rizal Park or Luneta for example. This is a historic place where the national hero, Jose Rizal, was executed during the Spanish regime. This event sparked the hearts of many Filipinos in fighting for their freedom. 

Shopping for essentials and souvenirs is likewise affordable. You can find your favorite brands in typical malls, but the highlight of the city is thrift shopping. Try going to Divisoria or Carriedo and feast your eyes on numerous stalls and shops that offer items at much lower prices as compared to those sold in famous malls. You just have to prepare yourself for the crowd, especially during the holiday season.

If you love food, then Manila is known for restaurants and food stalls that offer sumptuous and affordable dishes. Binondo, for example, has restaurants that offer authentic Chinese dishes and you will be surprised with the little amount that you will spend. Want to be adventurous? Visit some sidestreets and more likely than not, you will find food stalls that sell exotic Filipino street foods. Ever tried balut, isaw (IUD), samalamig, grilled chicken feet (adidas), or chicken blood (betamax)? These are something worth trying. 

Adventure with the public transportation

Jeepney is the main mode of transportation in  Manila. Of course, there are also the LRT, tricycles, pedicabs, and taxis. But your stay in Manila is never complete without riding these king of the roads. For many Pinoys, riding the jeepney and going to various destinations is common. Some would even say that this is like experiencing an extreme sport. Imagine those colorful rides, with ear-splitting sound systems, and roller coaster riding adventures. Fare is likewise affordable, even though the global oil price hike has affected the minimum fare of jeepneys.

Tricycles and pedicabs are also not to miss, especially if you are going to the outskirts and several streets of the city. The fare, though is quite higher than the jeepneys, they will definitely take you to places. However, if you do not feel these modes of transportation, you can always get a taxi cab or book a Grab.

Enjoy the tropical climate

Yes. Manila is not like Boracay or El Nido, but you still experience the warm weather of the country. Sometimes a bit too warm than what was announced in the news. When traveling the city, you should complete your gear, like umbrella, caps, handkerchief, and other means to battle the heat. Depending on the months of visit, you might also experience some rainy days that might progress to flooding. 

Prepare for Filipino hospitality

Filipinos are known for their caring and hospitable attitude. Try visiting a friend’s place and you are up for some surprise. You will immediately be offered drinks, and snacks, and might even be asked to stay for dinner. Prepare to meet the family as well as friends and even though you do not remember their names, you will be greeted with a smile. Many of them enjoy a little chit-chat, whether in your personal experience of the city or your personal life. Admit it, we Filipinos enjoy hearing stories and gossip from time to time. 

Also do remember that many people are helpful. Whether you are asking for directions or just any inquiry. Many Manilenos will try their best to answer your questions. 

Now that you have enough knowledge about Manila, then you are prepared to have the adventure of your life. Kudos!

Green design is a revolution when it comes to art and design. It is a method and approach to creating and designing with minimal effects on health and the environment. With what is happening to our surroundings these days. It is the responsibility of the designers to look for ways of protecting the environment with the use of eco-friendly materials and methods. 

The advantage of using a green design

It is obvious these days that the environment is suffering a lot due to different human activities. Humans have created products and have done a lot of activities that can be harmful to health and the environment. These activities have led to the accumulation of unwanted materials, especially pollutants. 

If these abuses of the environment continue, the planet would be inhabitable. As part of the ecosystem, humans need to think of sustainable ways to preserve the environment. As such, environmental-friendly materials and methodologies have been made to create a more sustainable environment for generations to come. 

Designing for the future is one of the goals of green design. It is of utmost importance for the design that space may have multiple functions and can still be used in the future. Also part of the design is to consider how space can be converted without replacing the existing materials as well as minimizing the impact on the environment.

What is a green design?

With proper planning and creativity, green design can be achieved successfully. The design has been the trend for some time now around the globe as many designers and homeowners saw its benefits. Below are some of the important traits of a building that employs green design:

• Efficient use of energy, water, and other resources
• Minimal waste production
• Health protection of the occupants of the space

Just like any other design, green design has its benefits that must be considered:

• Protection of health and environment
• Improve the quality of air and water
• Less waste production and emission
• Conservation of natural resources
• Cost-efficient
• Improve the quality of life
• Increase productivity of the occupants

Decorating with greens

Giving a touch of nature to your home is one of the ways to bring the environment to your room. The addition of elements of nature has been known to give numerous benefits. One great example is the Japanese-styled interior. Adding elements of nature like water, earth, and plants evoke beauty as well as a calm and relaxing room atmosphere. 

Adding greens to your home is not that difficult. There are different kinds of plants that you can add as well as decorative elements to achieve a compelling design. The display of art is one of the fastest and easiest ways to create a room that is comfortable and cozy. 

Posters are cost-efficient and evoke a mood that can also be observed from other elements of nature. In addition to these, nature-themed posters can serve as an inspiration and probably a reminder for all of us to be proper stewards of the environment.

France is known for having the language of love and of course, its sumptuous cuisine. If you are planning to redecorate your restaurant or just owned a French restaurant, then there are a few things that you need to consider about decor and interior design. There are in fact many choices when it comes to decorating the interior. From being classic to a modern interior, the ultimate goal is to stay true to traditions and cooking recipes. 

Although France wants to maintain the traditional look and taste of its restaurants, the Westerns have adopted the concepts and contributed to the growth and popularity of French western cuisines.  Whether you keep with the tradition or have a mixed fusion, decorating a French restaurant will give an unforgettable experience.  Read on to know how to create a kick-ass French interior decor.

Visit French restaurants to research their composition

No need to act like James Bond and go spying on different French restaurants. Do the visits discretely and never flaunt your plans. Remember that they may be your competitors in the future. While doing the visits, familiarize yourself with their design but do not copy the entire interior. You need to know the flaws so that you may be able to improve them for your own restaurant. 

The prices on the menu, as well as the dishes, are vital for your success. You want to be affordable but not cheap as this may affect your brand. So be mindful of these factors. If you are planning to have a high-end restaurant, be inspired by expensive furnishing and elaborate dishes. For not so expensive image, mix up the menu a bit to attract more customers. 

Pick the right location

Location is everything. Never choose an area where your restaurant will not be noticed. A restaurant in business areas attracts more customers. A remote location like the mountainside or at the lakeside will give your customers magnificent views, far from an urban setting. 

Choose staff who knows French cuisine

Hire a chef who is fully knowledgeable about French cooking. They may even be required to learn some French words to enhance the theme of the restaurant. As such, they may likewise be prepared to answer any question from the customers. 

The restaurant appearance

Visiting some French restaurants may already have given you ideas about the interior and exterior appearances. Many believe that a French restaurant has to be complicated with motifs, gold colors, and ornaments. The truth is that the appearance of the interior depends on the time period you want to feature. If you aim for minimalism, then opt for simple moldings and ornaments. 

There are features that are considered to be the main components of a classic French restaurant design: cornice, arches, fireplace, moldings, ceiling and wall paintings, soft furniture, classic chandeliers, mirrors, curtains, golden polished frames, classic walls sconces, and vases with ornaments and flowers. 

If you want your customers to enjoy a real French restaurant vibe then lean towards decorating and enhancing the theme. Focus on French-style doors, candlelight ambiance, and floral aromas. 

Happy decorating!

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.