When it Could be a Don't No. 14 - When a Wooden Bench is Not a Bench At All

If we open the creative side of our minds we see function, not thought of before, come to life. Take that bench that sits in our home waiting for the need of an extra seat. It's tucked to the side or under another piece of furniture until its need arises. Why?

A bench can become so much more in our homes. How about using our bench as an art easel? I've been rethinking the "correct" way to hang art at eye level. Eye level when? Only when we are standing in a space? Why? Couldn't eye level be when we are sitting down? (More to come on that subject in a this blog soon.) So this brings to mind how the bench can become more than a bench.

Our bench can be in lieu of a console table behind our sofa. And what a great way to display our current stack of acquired books we will be reading next, or our favorite reads from times past. How about those great travel books - they aren't limited to cocktail tables - who decided to call them coffee table books?

There is something to be discovered about spreading things out across a long bench. They become a bit more special. That piece you have on your mantel may become more of an eye catcher put down lower on a bench, its detail appreciated even more.

I love the shape of the bench showing itself off behind a sofa adorned with simplicity by well-chosen books and objects. Remember we still may need to pull the bench in as extra seating so don't load it up too much. Or do! A bench is a great library space! Perhaps your bench is a permanent non-bench - so load it up with stacks of beautiful books. And heck, top those books off with some favorite objects. Or not.

Let's take away the temporary feeling a bench can create in a space - a piece waiting to be used on occasion. Perhaps this is where your stunning photography finally meets its perfect spot. Think tabletop when you are considering what you will display on our bench. Opens up endless possibilities!

I love how a bench keeps the visual of a space open - not blocking the view. The displays you decide to utilize your bench for sit lower, blending with the space rather than creating a division of the space. When a bench is not a bench it brings life to a space, to your objects, to your book collection, to your Summer vacation perfect seashell on top of those books. There's no limit. Just be sure to keep it within the less is more. 

Be inspired to redefine what an easel is that holds your art or photography. Be inspired to redefine what a bookshelf is. Be inspired to rethink about when a bench is not a bench.

Sources: Dusty-Reykjavik Blogspot, Pinterest, Tumblr, Instagram, Dering Hall, 79Ideas, House Beautiful UK

Be Inspired No. 92 - Fire Balls

Meaning should be one of the most important factors in designing our homes. The design of a space should evolve from how the space will be used and who will be sharing the space; thus giving each piece in the space a meaning.

This meaning manifests itself in many forms: comfort, calmess, texture, objects, sound or silence. The silence in a space sets the stage for restoration of our soul. Be certain to pay close attention to including an element that encourages silence into a space where you want to retreat for relaxation. It can  be a space that is multipurpose - entertaining both robust conversation and relaxation at different times. 

I believe fire is one of those elements of meaning, whether designing indoor or outdoor spaces. I think we can all reminisce over times spent around a controlled burning fire. Whether it's the bonfire at our high school celebration before a big game against the rival team, or the fireplace in our home with friends and family, or the outdoor fire pit with or without s'mores.

Fire is one of the five elements of nature. The dance of the flames and the flicker of a warm palette of color capture us as we stare into them. It is almost a sacred moment around the fire. Conversation is limited and a warm, loving environment is revered. Time stands still and our souls are open to receive whatever nature has stopped us to receive. This environment is either predominate or underlying - depends on the guests and celebration. 

What I love about fire balls as a choice in our fireplaces or fire pits is how their shape adds to the  harmony of the fire ritual. The round form says arrange me however you want, you are limited only by your imagination. The spiritual symbol of the ball is unity. In Chinese practices, meditation balls focus on stress reduction and relaxation. The extension of these meanings to our indoor and outdoor spaces is a welcome element.

Greek philosopher, Plutarch said that "the mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled." What better place to achieve this than in front of our fire receptacle. 

One disadvantage of the fire ball versus wood logs burning is the crackle of the fire. We can always find a disadvantage, a con vs. a pro in all the choices we make in designing our homes. Remember there is still the dance of the brilliant flames - the silence that pulls us in deeper to a state of relaxation. I love a fascinating, roaring, crackling fire in a fireplace or fire pit - as a matter of fact I can be lulled into a deep restorative sleep by its sound or dance to some great music. So it is a trade off - a choice. I always seem to find a way to enjoy the best of both worlds with decisions like this. Perhaps not both at the same place - but each in a special place where I can either stay home or visit a dear friend who has the crackle that I might not. The sound versus the silence. 

Know that the color of the fire balls will change over time. There will be soot marks over time. If you aren't a fan of patina choose the color of the fire balls you use in your space to be darker to hide the soot marks and patina. Be inspired to mix and match colors, what a remarkable way to be the perfect dance partner to the every changing colors of the fire's flames.

The style of your fireplace or fire pit should not dictate whether you choose fire balls or logs. There is no design rule that lists restrictions for your selection. Just like there are no restrictions on whether your fireplace or fire pit is log burning because of the surrounding decor. 

Be inspired to remember that meaning is of the utmost importance in the design of all your spaces. Capture them all - the meanings you need to thrive in your spaces. And don't forget a well-stocked bar and s'mores fixings at the ready for your fire element.

Sources: Ciao Newport Beach Blogspot, The Savvy Heart, Pinterest, My Domaine, Mix & Chic, Mary Flanigan Interiors, Google, Atlanta Homes & Lifestyle