Why Do We Celebrate Christmas?

Christmas is celebrated across the globe in honor of the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem. Different traditions have been practiced that are associated with Christmas. In fact, different cultures have their own way of celebrating the holiday. Whatever the culture and tradition may be, one thing is for sure. Christmas is a joyful day when the prophecy in the Bible has been fulfilled – a Saviour is born. 

How December 25 was chosen for Christmas?

No one knows exactly when Jesus Christ was born. In fact, there are no historical records that specify the date when the Saviour was born in the manger. In the 4th century, the Church decided to institute the birth of Jesus Christ as a Christian holiday. However, the dilemma was the date on which many would agree. Some experts believe that Jesus may have been born in the spring. December 25 was chosen by Pope Julius I to adopt the pagan tradition of the Saturnalia festival. This festival was celebrated in honor of the god of agriculture, Saturn. The chosen date for Christmas eventually spread to Egypt by the end of the 6th century, England has accepted the tradition. 

How the holiday is celebrated

In addition to being a religious holiday, Christmas is a worldwide commercial and cultural phenomenon. Different countries, culture, and people have their own way of celebrating the day. Some of the popular practices or customs are decorating the Christmas tree, exchanging gifts, attending Christmas mass, and the overrated Christmas meal with family and friends.

Churches are also decorated with bright and colorful lights. Christmas carols are sung to commemorate the birth of the Saviour. Homes and different establishments are decorated with lights, stockings, tree toppers, glass balls, garlands, and lanterns. These are displayed to create a joyful and festive atmosphere. 

Who is Santa?

The story of Santa can be traced back to St. Nicholas, an early Christian bishop of Myra in Asia Minor. He is also known as Nicholas the Wonderworker because of the miracles attributed to his intercession. His reputation evolved due to his habit of gift-giving that gave rise to the traditional model of Santa Claus through Sinterklaas. 

In the United States, his popularity rose in pop culture when Dutch families gathered to honor the anniversary of the death of St. Nicholas. As such, the giving of gifts has become a worldwide tradition. It is believed that Santa or Father Christmas would come to every house to give gifts. 

The true meaning of Christmas

Though there are many reasons why we celebrate Christmas, here is what we call the real Christmas story. It is the story of God becoming human in the person of Jesus Christ. The true meaning of Christmas is love in which God gave His only Son so that we will not perish from our sins. Why do we celebrate Christmas? It is showing our gratitude to God for His gift to humanity. 

This year, before the much-awaited Noche Buena, remember the Christmas story and how the story became a tradition. Merry Christmas!

Personalize Your Bedroom With Posters

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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. 

The History of Art Nouveau

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Art Nouveau is a design style that is commonly used in architecture, applied art, and fine art. Its popularity rose in the 1890s until the beginning of World War I. The goal of the design style was to modernize the design and move away from the eclectic historical styles that were popular during that period. In fact, the concept of Art Nouveau originated from the stems and blossoms of plants. Read on to learn more about Art Nouveau and how it all began. 

A brief history of Art Nouveau

Art Nouveau was based on the name of an art gallery in Paris, “Maison de l’Art Nouveau”. The gallery was owned by an art collector, Siegfried Bing. The gallery featured artworks that were created in the Art Nouveau style. Along with modern furniture pieces, tapestries, and other decorative items during the 1900 Exposition Universelle made the place popular that the name of the place was used to denote the design style. 

Simultaneously, Les Vingt and La Libre Esthetique promoted the design style in Belgium. While the magazine, Youth, promoted the design style in Germany. It was an illustrated magazine on art and lifestyle in Munich. 

Though the exact origin of Art Nouveau is not really determined. Many art historians agree that the origin is linked with the English Arts and Crafts Movement. It also has influences from Celtic art to Japonism. The beauty of Art Nouveau is that it can be applied to other disciplines like architecture, interior design, fine arts, glassware, and illustrations

Its worldwide popularity is short-lived, however, because of the rise of the Art Deco movement. It made its comeback in the 1960s. The emergence of Art Nouveau is the response to the traditional design style. The goal was to do away with the traditional ones and modernize the concepts and ideas in the decorative arts. The design style is inspired by the organic and geometric forms, evolving elegant designs that mimic the stems and blossoms of plants. The beauty of Art Nouveau features lines and curves as well as colors and hues. 

Traits of Art Nouveau

Here are some of the traits of Art Nouveau that will make a difference to your homes:

  • The design of the furniture pieces is styled with flowers, leaves, buds, and roots. 
  • Designers have the freedom and flexibility to choose the color as long as they are light.
  • The floor is usually made from hardwood that is stained and varnished with the addition of an oriental or colorful rug. 
  • Tiffany lamps and stained glass windows create the atmosphere. 

Achieve the design style in your home

For homes that employ the design style, it is common to see elongated curves and linear shapes. The style is influenced by nature such as flowers, spider webs, and feathers. Here are some ideas and tips to achieve Art Nouveau interior to your home. 

  • Wall colors – usually the colors of the wall are soft and muted mixed with palettes of gray, mustard, brown, olive, and lilac.
  • Floors – parquet floor or wood finish will achieve the classic appearance, whitewash the floor, or mid-toned wood. 
  • Lighting – Tiffany lamps were the popular ones during the period.
  • Decors – add curved or straight lines which are geared upwards from the ground. Stained glasses can be used with the same design which resembles blossoms of plants. 

Trendy Wall Coverings

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In many houses, the walls get the usual covering such as flat, eggshell, or semi-gloss interior paint. The good thing about this is that you can never go wrong with coating the walls with interior paint. However, there are other wall coverings that can be used to make your walls appealing and exciting. A great wall covering can likewise be the focal point of the house. Some of these wallcoverings are highly textured and not recommended to cover the whole house with it since it will produce visual overload. Try using highly textured wall coverings on an accent wall instead of multiple walls to have an interesting wall decoration. 

Wood Wainscot

Conventionally, this is an area of wooden paneling on the lower part of the walls of a room. This is often wood beadboard and can be commonly seen painted in white. White wainscot projects a retro appearance of a summer cottage. The reality is that you do not have to confine yourself with white. You can paint it in an array of colors. Wainscot is also readily available and inexpensive. You can get them from the local lumberyard or home improvement store. There are basically two main forms of wood wainscot: Tongue-and-groove plywood beadboard paneling that still requires cutting and priming; MDF panels that are exclusively made for wainscot, and is already primed and ready for painting.

Tile Wainscot

Commonly, a wainscot is made of wood. Tile can also be used in wainscoting and is ideal in the bathroom. Joining tile to tile creates a perfect water-sealed seam. This will also look good in other rooms aside from the bathroom, as long as they will look appropriate.

Floor-to-ceiling tile

Cover the wall with tiles from the floor way up to the ceiling to create a modern look for your interior wall. However, choose the appropriate wall to lay the tiles on as this will cause visual overload if multiple walls are tiled.

Modern wallpaper

This type of wallpaper can provide a sophisticated and glamorous appearance. The design can provide a fresh and trendy look. Commonly, simple patterns and colors can provide a bold and clean look. Geometric figures, textures, floral, and more futuristic designs can give a modern wall appearance that will be loved by many homeowners.

Manufactured Stone Veneer

Man-made stone veneer is composed of Portland cement, aggregates, and iron oxides. Just like natural stones, manufactured stone veneer also has the same weight and durability.

Faux stone veneer

This is usually made of styrofoam that looks like a real stone. The drawback is that faux stone veneer can dent easily therefore these should be installed in areas where physical contact is not that much.

Wood wall panels

Today, wood paneling is one of the popular wall covering designs available that looks great on the wall interior. These panels are usually made from rosewood, oak, ebony, teak, and other exotic woods. The size is small and they are usually mounted horizontally.

Mosaic tiles made of bamboo

If you are looking for a wall covering that is fresh and modern, then the bamboo mosaic tile is a perfect choice. The food thing about bamboo is that they are sustainable as it can be grown easily. So no need to worry about waiting for a long period of time to have a full-grown plant. Bamboo tiles are ideal indoors and try not to install them in the bathroom.

Mosaic tiles made of cork

These are tiny round tiles made of cork and are bound together on mesh mats for easy installation. These are ideal for wall sections or for backsplashes.

Removable wallpaper

Unlike conventional wallpaper, this type of wallpaper can be removed with no special tools needed. Ideal for apartment living where you can just remove them without the fuss when the time comes that you decided to leave the apartment. 

Sinatra poster

Sinatra poster

Get the chance to have one of the best-selling music artist of all time. Frank Sinatra is a legend in the music industry. With exemplary talent he rose to fame that impressed the whole world. make him part of your home with a stunning posters design that will make your room look more extraordinary.

Shabby Chic – What Is It?

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Classic, soft, and timeless. These are the best words to describe the interior design style. Shabby chic is one of the most popular design styles these days. Many find it stylish, elegant, and romantic. It started in the 1980s in the United Kingdom and was conceptualized by the British designer, Rachell Ashwell.

Achieving the design style in your home is quite easy and affordable. Time to bring out old and unused items and furniture pieces. With a little imagination and creativity, you can transform your home into something marvelous. Read on to learn more about the design style and how you can achieve it in your home. 

Features of Shabby Chic interior design style

There are similarities between shabby chic and other vintage-styled design styles, such as the French Country Interior Design. Shabby chic is actually a vintage style but with a twist to give it a modern appeal. 

The vintage or classic look of the design style is due to the use of furnishings with signs of wear and distress. Fabrics are commonly made of cotton and old French linen. It is also common to see colors such as white and pastels to have a room that appears soft and bright.

The rooms also look romantic with the presence of pillows in vintage fabric, linens, chandeliers, and other items that have a rose design. Many likewise consider the design style to be eclectic with a touch of feminine and romance. 

Why love the style?

There are many ways to illustrate and define shabby chic. What makes it unique and interesting is the experience that you will encounter. It is a design style where the old furniture pieces and furnishings become the highlight of your home. 

Shabby chic was initially used in the 80s by the British designer, Rachel Ashwell. She brought it to the United States where it gained popularity. The design style was inspired by the large country houses and other vintage designs. Especially with the use of old and worn furniture pieces, curtains, paintings, and others. 

These days, the use of recycled, upcycled, and repurposed items are common with the design style. It also makes use of colors that make any home look elegant and luxurious. 

Achieving the design style is not that complicated. There are no strict rules to follow. Check out your old decorative items and furniture pieces and use them. See if you can recycle, upcycle, or repurpose some items. You can also visit antique shops or garage sales to get some items that will complete the design style. Who says that you have to spend more to have an elegant and luxurious interior?

Tips to achieve the style

Here are some tips that you can use to achieve the design style:

  1. Timeworn furniture pieces
  2. Cotton and old French fabric
  3. Pillows of vintage fabric
  4. Vintage chandeliers
  5. Use of white and pastels
  6. Flowers around the house
  7. Distressed wood
  8. Hand-painted cabinets
  9. Mirrors
  10. Wrought iron furniture

Make Your Balcony Herb Garden

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The balcony is one of the multipurpose areas in your home. It may have different appearances depending on how it will be used. Making a balcony herb garden is a great way to add beauty to space. Herbs and spices are ideal as they do not take up much space. Read on to learn more about starting an herb garden on the balcony. 

Best herbs to plant on the balcony

Any herb can be planted. However, there are factors to consider before starting the herb garden. The type of herb greatly depends on sunlight, space, and weather. Among the favorite herbs is basil. Dill. cilantro, marjoram, parsley, chive, oregano, lavender, sage, thyme, mint, and rosemary. 

Sunlight availability for the balcony herb garden

It is a fundamental principle that plants need an ample amount of sunlight for them to grow. This is what you need to consider if you are planning to create a balcony herb garden. It is a must to know the sunlight that the balcony receives each day. 

Most herbs need around 4-6 hours of sunlight each day to grow properly. Check the balcony for the availability of sunlight before making the herb garden. Living in a condominium or apartment may also pose a problem. Nearby buildings may shade your balcony, thus hindering you from growing herb gardens

Seeds or starter kits for the balcony herb garden

Seed packets are readily available. They can be purchased from the market or online. Growing from seeds can be fun and exciting. Seed starter packs can likewise be purchased to hold enough moisture to start propagation. It is also recommended to purchase starter plants that have already sprouted. This will give you an idea of which herb to grow.

The things you need

Creating your balcony herb garden only needs a few items. Pots, potting soils, and herb plants are the primary items that you need. Pots can be purchased easily and you may want to consider the type of pot that can be brought indoors when the weather gets rough. You may also recycle PET bottles and use them as pots. Choose herbs that are easy to grow and manage. It is also ideal to grow herbs that you usually use in cooking. Group them accordingly so they would look attractive on the balcony.

Water them

Understand the herbs that you are growing. Understanding their water requirements is a must so that you may know the frequency of watering them. It is also recommended to water the soil before planting the seedling or seeds. Check the soil and make sure that they do not dry out. 

Reaping your reward

Not all herbs are the same when it comes to harvesting. For instance, oregano and mint can be harvested by cutting the leaves off from anywhere on the plant. Basil leaves should be snipped from the top of the plant. Chives can be cut to the soil. Get enough information on this matter so as not to waste your hardship. 

The Mayon Poster – A Magnificent View

Mayon poster

Artdesign gives you fantastic and trendy posters that will surely add life to your rooms. We have a wide range of poster designs that will suit your decoration needs. The Mayon poster is one of the impressive posters that will not only add to the aesthetics of your home. This can also be used in travel agency companies to promote tourism in the Philippines. Rean on to know more about the amazing volcano and how this print can boost the overall appearance of your rooms. 

The Mayon volcano

Mayon volcano, also known as Mount Mayon, is one of the active volcanoes in the Philippines. It is located in the province of Albay in Bicol region. It is considered to be one of the popular tourist destinations in the country due to its symmetric conical structure. Mayon volcano is also regarded to be a sacred mountain in Philippine mythology.

On July 20, 1938, Mayon volcano was declared to be the first national park in the Philippines. UNESCO declared the volcano as the centerpiece of the Albay Biosphere Reserve in 2016. A very active volcano that is constantly monitored by PHIVOLCS. 

Mayon volcano in Philippine mythology

The Philippines is rich in culture and tradition as well as numerous practices. In Philippine mythology, interesting stories are told that explain the origins of various things including landscape and waterscape. 

The myth of the origin of Mayon volcano is as interesting as the love stories that you have read or watched on television. It tells the story of star-crossed lovers that has a tragic ending, thus giving birth to the crown jewel of Albay. 

The legend is about the beautiful maiden, Magayon, who lived in Ibalon. She is also the daughter of the chief of the tribe, Makusog. Men from different places were so enamored by her beauty that they visited Ibalon just to get a glimpse of the maiden. 

One of the suitors was Pagtuga, a warrior and chief of Iraga, who tried to court Magayon by bringing various kinds of precious treasures, like gold, and jewels. However, Magayon was not moved by this gesture. 

Magayon also loved to bathe in the Yawa river. While bathing, the maiden slipped on the rocks and almost drowned if not for the help of Pangaronon who saved her. This led to a good relationship between the two characters. Magayon eventually asked Makusog for Magayon’s hand in marriage. This was immediately approved by Makusog as he wished only for the happiness of her daughter. 

The news about the wedding reached Pagtuga who then kidnapped Makusog and threatened to kill him if Magayon refused to marry Pagtuga. As such, Magayon married Pagtuga to save her father. 

On the day of the wedding, Pangaronon went to the place of the wedding to try to stop the celebration. A battle erupted between Pagtuga and Pangaronon in which the former was struck by the latter. As Magayon and Pangaronon were about to hug each other, a poisoned arrow struck Magayon. 

While kneeling and watching Magayon die, Pangaronon was stabbed by the soldiers of Pagtuga. The two lovers were buried together. Years have passed and the people observed that the land where the lovers were buried started to rise. The mountain that rose from the burial site is now known as Mayon Volcano. 

It is also believed that when the volcano is about to erupt, Magayon is being bothered by Pagtuga. On the other hand, when the volcano is calm, it is believed that Pangaronon is hugging Magayon. 

Beauty and a touch of nature on your walls

The Mayon poster is one of the prides of Artdesign. It is a multifunctional art that can easily be displayed on the walls. The natural colors and image of the volcano can instantly add a touch of nature to your space. The display of the poster can also show your love and admiration for the famous destination of the country. 

Nordic Design Style – Principles That You Will Find Interesting

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The Nordic design style is characterized by the use of natural materials and cool shades of pastel colors. This is a design style that is known to be closely similar to the Scandinavian interior design style. The only difference is that the Nordic design style has a slightly darker edge with the use of colors like blue, green, and gray. Add different textures and you will have a room that is comfy and spacious. 

Nordic design style – its origin

Nordic interior design style has its origin from the Scandinavian region. The style rose to popularity during the 19th century. This is the period when Arts and Crafts movement had influenced the interior design industry. Nordic design style became part of different design movements. 

During the 1920s, designers from the Scandinavian region incorporated the principles of Nordic design style to modernism. Though it took many years, it was in the 1950s when the Nordic design style was widely accepted. From 1954 to 1957, the design style was observed to participate in traveling exhibits in the United States and Canada. 

The characteristics of Nordic design style

The characteristics of Nordic design style have its great influence by the Scandinavians with a touch of German. It is a combination of natural and practical ideas that are observed from everyday objects. The design style features wood, plastic, anodized metal, pressed steel, and aluminum. 

Gray and white walls

The design style primarily features crisp, clean colors, such as hues of gray, white, and cream. The colors add beauty to any room and can make them appear clean. In addition to these, the materials make the furniture and other decorative items be the highlight of the room. 

Natural textiles and plants

Indoor plants are common with the design style. Experts also have suggested that the incorporation of plants gives benefits to the mind and body. In addition to these, the plants add attractive accents to your homes. Natural textiles like burlap, linen, and cotton are likewise recommended to further enhance the Nordic-inspired home. 

Minimalist kitchens

The design style is also known for its minimalist rooms. The kitchen, for instance, appears clear, solid-colored, and clutterless. The cabinets often appear flat, plain, and simple. The rooms are usually seen in white color. 

Dark grout lines

The use of dark grout lines can give any tile a touch of pop color. The bathroom and the kitchen can have an impressive look with dark grout lines. In addition to these, white tiles can give sterility and a clean look to the rooms. 

Fireplace

Add comfort and warmth to your room with the incorporation of a fireplace. This can create a visually comfortable interior with a clean and crisp appearance. As such, the fireplace can be the focal point of your home making it look more inviting and relaxing. 

Patterns and textures

Patterns and textures in Nordic design style are usually in a monochromatic style. As such, this can be an opportunity to add a color theme. Think of the monochromatic style as a blank canvas to paint your art. 

Indoor Vertical Garden – Beauty and Function

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Vertical garden is a wall in a structure that is either partially or completely covered with plants. The vertical garden also includes growing medium like soil as well as a water system. The garden can be indoor, outdoor, freestanding or attached to the wall. Vertical gardens are commonly seen in urban areas where planting areas are limited due to space availability.  

The Pros of Indoor Vertical Garden

Vertical gardens are sometimes called living walls and there are many reasons why. The garden offers many benefits for both the humans and interior design. The addition of vertical gardens is a wonderful way to maximize any unused space. This can be utilized to plant herbs and vegetables. The presence of plants helps remove or filter common indoor pollutants. This can help owners in preventing any harmful diseases. 

The garden also insulates homes as it protects the homeowners from cold climate. As such, there is a reduction in energy consumption. Experts also believe that indoor vertical gardens can provide calming and tranquil effects to the body. As a home decor, indoor vertical garden is probably one of the most attractive and cost-effective home decorations. 

Cons of Indoor Vertical Garden

Just like any other product, indoor vertical gardens also have its disadvantages. The soil dries quickly, therefore a steady supply of water is needed. The growing space for the plants may be limited as there is not enough space for the plants to grow. As such, not all plants can be used in vertical gardens. 

Indoor vertical gardens may also require lots of maintenance because of the dirt that is coming from the containers. In addition to these, water may also leak that may damage the structure supporting the garden. The disadvantages may therefore be presented with careful planning. Along with proper designing, problems may be minimized in the future. 

Creating an indoor vertical garden

Indoor vertical gardens are the latest trend in home design. Sometimes called green or living wall since the wall is covered with crawling and climbing plants. There are also homeowners who use a modular system that allows plants to grow inside. 

The green wall or vertical garden was first created by Patrick Blanc, a French Botanist. His first project was at the Museum of Science and Industry in 1988. The beauty of the vertical garden was regarded as living paintings or vegetal walls. His projects may seem expensive, but many offices and other establishments due to its elegance and being environmentally-friendly.

Vertical gardens can be installed in any space even if it is small and use modular pocket planters. With a little creativity, you will be able to create a wall decor that will be adored by anyone. To save money, use empty PET bottles as pots and hang them on the walls. You may also use an old pallet as a planter. This will give you enough space for planting herbs and spices. 

Vertical gardens are innovative wall decor. If you want to include nature in your home, a vertical garden is a perfect choice. Not only that the garden provide beauty to the whole room. It also offers health benefits that can be enjoyed even by young ones.