Mapped out for Great Design

LonnyMag.com

Implementing nostalgia, vintage relics, and/or random finds, is always part of each of my design plans in at least a subtle way.  It brings heart, humor, and aesthetic interest to a space, even if in just the smallest of touches.  One of my favorite forms of this are maps, globes, or the like.  Maps of all kinds are fab to me.. heat  maps, a trail guide, topographical, blue prints, even pages pulled from my grandma's AAA road map book she keeps in her car's glove box (and still uses...clearly she really needs mapped out directions on how to use Google Maps)!

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 interi0r-design.net

Why such a interest in direction type materials?  Who knows!  I wish I could provide a deep and clever answer for my curiosity of them.  Like most things for me....I just like the way they look, the colors the come in, and all that kind of surface stuff :)  I guess it could be something about all the intricacy of the lines, compass rose's, grids, being able to pinpoint exactly where you are and thinking about yourself in the grand scheme of a much larger space around you...  I also like the colors commonly used on world maps and globes...  The pictured globes below are some of my favorite takes on these age-old geographical tools.  These are by ImagineNations (http://www.artonglobes.com/) .  Such endless possibilities, especially if you go with the kit version they provide!  Adorn the Antartic or massive country of Africa with any sticker you want! 

ImagineNations globes



There is a 'world' full of ideas out there of creative was to use globes as decor.  Here are some bright new ways i've seen that really deserve to be on display...(talk about global warming! :) )

That gold/coppery globe above is a fave of mine and would be a very easy and cheap DIY!  Spray paint the globe, then use silver thumb tacks (from the Dollar Store) to cover the land portions.  Love!

Although maps as art are typically seen in the home in rooms like the den, maybe a boys bedroom, etc...I think it has added impact and looks more interesting when used outside their standard element.  That's not say using them in 'male' rooms is out..there is ALWAYS room for a map!  I know that these next ideas aren't going to be for everyone's taste, but since I clearly have a map obsession...i'm really loving the thought of using them as wallpaper!

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BudgetWiseHome.com

Maps are a great direction for design any way you use them, even if just for creating a color palette for a space, and not actually using a map as art, decor, or a wall covering.  Since the world has been around for centuries, I feel like using it as a form of art or decor will be a trend that will be around just as long.

Design Inspiration: Serving Up Style!

If you’ve only seen a bar cart while lounging poolside sipping an umbrella-donned mai tai, it’s about time to take another look! Bar carts, or beverage carts, can be a chic (and useful!) addition to your home’s interior.

Here are some ideas on how to bring this versatile look into your home.

At Your Service

Those who entertain might want to consider allowing their carts to stay mobile in the social spaces of their home. Your guests can help themselves to their favorite drink while you mingle and do your part as the host/hostess. And, an added bonus, a classic beverage cart is definitely a conversation piece!

 

Show Off Your ‘Poisons’

A bar cart can take the place another table in your living space. Instead of a normal end table, consider adding some character to your room and putting a bar cart in its place. A cart can make an otherwise cluttered-looking collection of bottles appear neat, organized, and (most importantly) ready when you need it!

 

Think Outside The Bottle!

Bar carts can be used for storing or displaying other items around your home. Whether it is your laptop and important work papers or a favorite collection of bottles or books - bar carts can put a new spin on any space!  One of my favorite ways to create interest in a room is to use anything. big or small, (furniture, small decor item, lighting, etc), in a way that it wasn't originally intended.  Bar carts make a stylish stide table that 'serve' as a multifunctional piece, consoles, entry tables, or even a portable desk..