Category Archives: Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

Color Trends, Furniture, Lamps and Lighting, Style, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

The Art Deco Revival

August 29, 2014 Jigsaw Design 2 Comments

Art Deco took shape as the technology and machine age emerged after WWI. It represented strength, glamour, and hope for a bright future for the world. Likewise we embrace the rapidly changing and ever evolving world we live in, therefore it seems only fitting for this enduring style to take center stage again.

We’ve seen glimpses of the Art Deco trend upon us with the infiltration of black, white, gold and blush into the marketplace. In stepping away from the cold modern interiors of yesterday, we are seeing new shapes, monochromatic color schemes and more details. Patterns are bolder, more geometric and circular, and full of movement with textures becoming more involved and luxurious.

Erte, the iconic graphic designer of the Art Deco era, personified the colors, textures, and patterns best with his 20’s and 30’s fashion illustrations.

Using a monochromatic color scheme and a few choice items such as patterned wallpaper, a great Deco chandelier or a scroll bench at the foot of the bed can bring your space up to trend in an instant. A few great pieces like these are worth the splurge to add to your eclectic room.

Some of the hottest Parisian antique markets have seen an influx of Art Deco furnishings such as these gorgeous chrome chairs we found on our most recent scouting trip. The markets are no bargain but the quality is amazing and you can get one of kind items by famous artists and designers like the lamp featured below in the photos.

After years of Modern and Hollywood Regency being the leading styles in the market, the Art Deco trend is a breath of fresh air. The Jigsaw Designers love mixing styles and textures, so adding key elements of the Deco trend can work perfectly into the aforementioned styles. A Deco rug in a Hollywood Regency room blends perfectly in this beautiful monochromatic bedroom below.

From wall furnishing to furniture there are dozens of ways to capture the Deco trend while it’s hot. Grab some popcorn and rent a roaring 20’s flick and get inspired. Happy decorating!

For more information on art deco trends and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Color Trends, Unique Ideas, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

Black and White

July 28, 2014 Jigsaw Design 3 Comments

The black and white color combination is simple and pure. It can be whatever it wants to be, modern, traditional, or regal. No other combination has stood the test of time more. On a recent adventure to France we found ourselves immersed in a flood of black and white with a roaring 20’s vibe at a local jazz spot. Black and white was used throughout the space in every room, but each room revealed a fresh take on this classic combination. White chairs with black trim, each with its own cashmere striped wrap thrown over the back. Glossy white columns and bold striped wall paper, wide striped curved ceilings, this place had it all to the last detail of wrapped toilet paper in black and white tissue. Enamored by the ambiance we left with a burning desire for all things black and white.

To achieve a lighter brighter take on this look of a sea of black and white you must start first with the foundation color…white. Starting with white will give your room a crisp clean look and from there you can add as much black to mix as you would like. A black and white rug and throw pillows may be just enough. If you want more of an impact, adding a stripe chair or sofa will create the perfect pop. Another quick fix for adding this haute combo to your space is simply by adding black and white paint. Horizontal and vertical stripes, painting the trim, or adding a border can give your space the wow factor you are looking for.

For a different perspective on the black and white combination, start with black as your base color. While this bold use of color is very dramatic coincidentally it’s quite soothing. Be adventurous and add a splash of stripe with a sofa in front of the black walls for a statement-making living room. For a softer look add a white lamp and accessories to the black-draped walls mixed with muted bedding for a sexy bedroom.

If you are lifetime lover of black and white and are certain of a time commitment to this color combo then why not be bold and make it more permanent. Black and white flooring is tried and true and works well in any style of home. Bold square tile flooring is classic and lays a base for black and white accents throughout the space in the traditional salon in the images below. Or try creating an all-white space with black and white floor tiles for a fresh clean look.

If you are committed but not to the point of flooring, then adding curtains or blinds with a stripe or boarder can be just enough touch and yet still be flexible with the look of the rest of the room.

This classic color combo can take so many different directions that this post could go on and on. The dosage of black and white that you can handle is entirely up to you. Whether it’s a few pillows and accessories or complete overhaul of black and white. The theme is always in fashion and always commands attention. Have fun creating your black and white world. Enjoy!

For more information on black and white color trends and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Unique Ideas, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

Smoke and Mirrors

June 30, 2014 Jigsaw Design Leave a comment

Smoked mirrors, also known as antiqued mirrors, are suddenly all the rage. These vintage throw back mirrors are a fabulous way to add an antique touch with a modern spin to any room of the house or office. Used in a variety of ways, smoked mirrors can be to add depth, light, and the optical illusion of more space. Floor length wall mirrors, bar back splashes and even furniture are a few ways to integrate this look into your space.

The Jigsaw Designers love the smoky mirror trend and like finding unique ways to use this uber-cool accessory. We like mixing the vintage vibe of the mirror with modern, traditional and even French decor. It is a great accent for a table top or even an entire wall in your dining room like the image we have included below. To be on-trend you can get the look easily by having a small piece cut for your dresser or make up table for a chic updated look.

Smoked mirrors can be found in many different patinas, bronze and grey being most popular. We’ve found they are also available in a wide variety of colors from hot pink to deep blue, but those just take a bit of research to find on-line. Many shapes are available too; harlequin, square, individual tiles, rectangles as well as baroque. So where might one find such mirrors? Well, frankly, anywhere if you dig a little. Vintage flea markets, design shops, on-line, or even homemade if you like a do it yourself project.

The process of creating your own smoky mirror is a bit messy, but relatively easy. Here are a few simple steps to follow, and a list of the supplies you will need: First you will need a mirror, after that you will need paint stripper, black patina, putty spreader, a chip brush, and silver paint.

Step 1: Wearing gloves, place the mirror face down on a protected surface in an area that is well-ventilated. Apply stripper to the back of the mirror and allow it to sit for a few hours, or until paint can be easily removed with a plastic scraper. Once the paint has been stripped, wash the mirror with soap and water and allow it to dry for a few hours.

Step 2: Dip the brush in a patina metal solution (we recommend Modern Masters) and apply it to the reflective surface of the mirror. Rinse with water to neutralize the reaction and allow to dry.

Step 3: Apply the silver paint (or color of choice) until the reflective surface is completely covered. Once the paint is dry you have your smoky vintage mirror.

The Jigsaw Designers believe the smoky mirror will make a bigger statement when up against the traditional silver mirror. This trend is sexy and here to stay so add a pop of vintage cool to you room for an updated twist on the average mirror.

For more information on smokey mirrors and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Unique Ideas, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

The New Look of Wainscoting

June 27, 2014 Jigsaw Design 1 Comment

Installing wainscoting in your home is a great way to add visual interest to a room. Until recently wainscoting was reserved for a very specific style of home, but today there are a variety of styles available. In this post we will touch on only a few of the many varieties and ideas, but we can promise that no matter the style of your home there is a wainscoting out there waiting to elevate the look of your home.

To set the record straight there are several types that quantify as ‘wainscoting”. There is the official ‘wainscoting’ that is wood paneling and railing, manufactured bead board, and board and batten all that achieve the look typically referred to as ‘wainscoting’. All of these looks can be easily adapted to your style and budget. While some remain a job for the professional, there are easy DIY instructions you can find on a handful of websites if you are working on a budget.

Depending on the style of home or the direction you want to take it will decide on the wainscoting style and application to use. Bead board is one of the most readily available options as well as cost effective and DIY friendly. Try using bead board horizontally for a fresher, less traditional look. To customize their own look, the Jigsaw Designers have used MDF board from Home Depot, measured out the desired widths, marked the board, and cut grooves with a table saw (shortening the setting height on the saw to cut grooves, not to cut through the board). Then the board is hung on the wall and paint to the desired color. See a few examples below for inspiration.

Wainscoting can help anchor a room with lots of wall space or unusually high ceilings by adding dimension and architectural interest. Crisp white wainscoting can make a room feel fresh and light. While painting wainscoting brings an elegance and sense of coziness. In the images below you can see how the gray floor to ceiling wainscoting warms the room allowing simplicity in the décor while still making a statement.

Think of wainscoting as a ‘free style’ design element. You can take it as high up the wall as you like, as long as it makes sense in the room. You can paint it or not, and you can choose a style that is traditional or with something really trendy and forward (however likely a fad). There are so many different styles available at market; circular, Greek key…the list goes on. Peruse the images below to see a small sampling of some of the unique options available.

Adding wainscoting to your home is a great way to give your room the impact you are looking for. Two more great reasons to install are that it is easy to find and can be relatively inexpensive. Whether you are planning to do it yourself or hire a contractor, you can update to your space quickly and easily. We hope this post has given you fresh ideas for the use of wainscoting. Have fun with your project and let us know how it turns out. We like hearing from you.

For more information on wainscoting and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Unique Ideas, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

Wall Medallions

June 23, 2014 Jigsaw Design 2 Comments

Finding the perfect artwork for your space does not have to break your budget when you can create a custom art wall with Ceiling Medallions. The look is extraordinary and is one of the easiest DIY projects you can ever attempt. In a recent post here at Jigsaw, we shared tips and information about Ceiling Medallions being applied around chandeliers and light fixtures for a polished look. In this post, we will dig a little deeper and teach you how to install this unique look yourself for a dramatic statement in your home, office, or business.

To create the wall you will need to the following items to begin: Medallions, paint, paint brushes, hanging wall tape, painters tape and paper. The first step will be to purchase the Medallions, which come in a variety of sizes, and styles and are readily available in the marketplace. They can also be found on-line at architecturaldepot.com and classicceilings.com. The Jigsaw team have found the quality to be nice and made of good materials and not plastic. Prices range generally from $12-$55 and can go upwards from there.

The next step will be to paint the medallions. Painting the medallions the same color as your wall creates a gorgeous custom designer look. The Jigsaw Designers like using a variety of designs and sizes with a monochromatic color scheme for maximum impact. Contrasting colors or accent colors are also beautiful. You will see in the images below where the medallions were layered on top of rolled raffia for an interesting play on textures. Be free to be as creative as you want. This look is exciting and unique, and there are no rules.

Once your wall and medallions are painted and dried, the next step is to choose the layout. Follow the same method for hanging as with picture frames. Trace the shapes on paper and tape them on the wall, or simply lay them out on the floor. Next, since the medallions are so light weight you can easily apply Double Sided Hanging Tape to the back of the medallion and then press onto the wall. Viola! That simple.

Wall medallions create a fresh and unique look that is exclusively yours. You can also incorporate photos on your medallion wall by simply taping the images to the back of the center cut-out. We hope this post will give rise to your imagination for your very own medallion wall.

For more information on wall medallions and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Style, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

Brick Wall Interiors

June 15, 2014 Jigsaw Design Leave a comment

Exposed brick walls are an attractive way to add a rustic modern touch to your home. Regardless of the style of your home this trend can be adapted into most interiors and blend beautifully. The organic feel of the bricks have an overall industrial look with a historical quality. Therefore from the modern to traditional home this stylish trend can work well in a small area or an entire room. Bricking one wall in a bedroom or bathroom may be just enough to achieve the look without overdoing it. See the images of the bedroom below, the soft palette coupled with the brick and chandelier are inviting and timeless. The brick wall is so flexible that this bedroom could be in an industrial loft, beach house or even a Provencal home in the south of France.

The Jigsaw Designers love to merge the styles of rustic modern and Hollywood glam with a brick wall being the common denominator. The rustic rough surface of the bricks with their geometric layout, coupled with the crystals and curved lines of the ultra-feminine chandelier create a cozy space and bridge the gap between masculine and feminine. Here you will see two great examples of mixing the rustic and glam looks together for a room you may never want to leave.

There are a few options for adding a brick wall to the interior of your home. The first is to expose existing bricks. Older homes often have brick underneath the plaster walls, and the brick may still be in good condition, if not it will need to be restored. The second way is to have actual brick and mortar installed in your home. This method is more authentic than panels, but labor-intensive (aka cost intensive) and be prepared to lose several inches of space along the wall or the entire room if you plan to brick the full room. Lastly and most easily installed are brick panels called brick veneers. In this method thin bricks are bonded to the drywall much like tile. Due to the veneer being thin, you don’t lose the space like real brick, and if you are handy and have a wet saw (or access to one), you can do this project yourself. Keep checking back for the Jigsaw Design DIY Brick Wall video-blog, due out this summer.

The Rustic Modern look is on top in trends right now. It is a very versatile look and a great way to combine masculine and feminine. The exposed brick wall is the pinnacle of this look and can be easily achieved. We hope this post will inspire you to add your own brick wall and let us know how your project turns out. We enjoy hearing from you.

For more information on brick wall interiors and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Unique Ideas, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

The Empty Frame Wall

June 2, 2014 Jigsaw Design 1 Comment

Sometimes less really is more. If you are searching for a unique design idea for a focal point in your room, then look no further. A “picture-less” frame wall may be just the answer. Hanging a cluster of empty frames will create visual interest with a very stylish minimal approach.

The look of the empty frame wall is avant-garde yet can be achieved in any style home from traditional to modern. Selecting frames that mesh with the style of your space is the most important factor to consider. Using vintage thrift store finds for French country décor, ornate baroque frames for Hollywood Glam or a mix them all for the more eclectic home. Once you have selected your frames consider painting them all a single color for a cohesive art wall. The Jigsaw Designers love painting a bold color on the wall behind the frames for maximum impact. Using a variety of different color frames will also work beautifully if they complement the colors and style throughout your space.

Once you have selected the frames and finished any necessary painting, it’s time to hang your frames in a cluster that fits the style of your space. Frames can be hung from floor to ceiling, or in several straight perfectly measured rows, whatever you find most visually appealing. Next, laying the frames out on the floor is the best way to decide the final layout. For more detailed information on how to hang your frames, see our previous post on Photo Walls. There are no rules when it comes to hanging your frames. Have fun with your layout and express who you are. We love this office with the single oversized frame above the desk. It’s arty and quirky and sometimes we just need this kind of lightheartedness at the office.

At Jigsaw, we love the “picture-less” frame wall…and think of all the coin you will be saving on art. Frames inside of frames, a variety of sizes and shapes, you can’t go wrong. Have fun experimenting with this easy DIY design project.

For more information on the empty frame wall and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Color Trends, Flooring, Carpet and Rugs, Furniture, Lamps and Lighting, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

Back in Black

May 28, 2014 Jigsaw Design 41 Comments

Upon the dawning of the little black dress in 1926, Coco Chanel made the color black instantly chic. Since then the infamous color has encapsulated style, class and edge. The unwritten rule in interior design has been to add something black to every room. Well, today that ‘something’ has taken on a much larger role. Explore with us the different ways to add this daring color to your home with this ultra-hot trend.

The Jigsaw Designers love adding black paint to the walls in any room. One black accent wall can make a huge impact whether you are painting a large or small area. A narrow wall at the end of a hallway, the large wall behind your headboard, whatever your comfort level is it will add high impact style. Next, choosing accessories in bright colors and metallics will really pop off the black and add drama. Adding a white crown molding or all white bedding to your bedroom can give the room balance and a crisp finish. The sophistication of this color will also create attention to the focal point of the room. However a wide range of black paint is available, our designers prefer using Matte Black which made its big come-back with celebrity automobiles. It’s more versatile and forgiving than a glossy finish, and adds the greatest wow factor in a room. The matte black look is hot and has been on the rise recently and is just finding its way into home interiors. While black is always in style the new matte black is taking center stage and we love it.

Always the color of optical illusion, this powerful hue is sexy and mysterious. We recently did a post on decorating your ceiling to complete the look of your space. Don’t let us stop you from adding black to the ceiling either. While one would think it would make the room appear smaller it’s actually quite the opposite effect. The black painted ceiling when complimented by lighter walls and ample natural light will result in an infinite look that makes a room feel as if it goes on forever.

Chances are your mother always told you to add something black to every room. Well, at the time she was probably referring to a piece of furniture or a picture frame and not an entire wall. This still deems great advice however. If you want to try the trend, but are a bit more color shy, it can easily be incorporated with furniture and accessories. If you are a bit more brave, try a piece on a grandeur scale like a sofa or buffet table. Otherwise, a black framed mirror, vintage chair or lamp can be a nice start.

We hope you will be inspired to experiment with the color black in any room of your home. It can be the perfect anchor in a room or spice up a hallway that gets overlooked. Forget all the myths you’ve been told about this adventurous color and decorate outside the lines!

For more information on black color trends and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Unique Ideas, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

Crown Molding and Medallions

May 22, 2014 Jigsaw Design Leave a comment

Welcome back to Part of 3 of our series on decorating your ceiling. In this post we will talk about updating your décor with crown molding, but with a twist on design. Furthermore, we will show you a great way to add a finished look in an unexpected way.

Around since ancient Greece, the use of crown molding and ceiling molding are a tried and true method for adding a strong visual effect to any room. Crown molding can transform the look of a room in an instant and at an affordable price. There are a wide range of moldings available including premade and unique custom designed moldings in a variety of materials. Typical styles at-market range from Craftsman, Revival, Colonial, Federal, Greek Revival, Early American, and Georgian, each adding its own personality to the room. A slight beading can make a room more feminine, while clean lines on Greek Revival can make a room appear polished and crisp. There are endless images on-line to see what style you feel is the perfect match for your space. We’ve included some images of unique crown molding below to tempt the inner designer in you. Notice how in image #3 the archway is in the traditional Federal style, and the ceiling is in an exclusive custom design. Mixing the styles adds interest and drama, which all girls love!

For an extra special touch to your ceiling the Jigsaw Designers like using circular ceiling molding called a ceiling medallion. The medallions look fantastic around light fixtures and chandeliers for an unexpected touch. The molding easily completes the look and gives the room a custom finish. See the images below from a recent Jigsaw install with an elegant pattern around a crystal chandelier. This look can work well in a home or office and we especially love it in modern, classic and Hollywood glam homes. It’s a lovely element of surprise in a bathroom or kitchen where in times past it would only be found in a formal dining room.

Ceiling medallions are readily available in the marketplace and can be found on-line. A few of our favorite vendors are architecturaldepot.com and classicceilings.com, because we’ve found the quality to be nice and made of good materials and not plastic. Prices range generally from $12-$55 and can go upwards from there. Ceiling medallions can all be used on walls too…but we’ll save that for another post.

Crown molding and ceiling medallions are a sure way to lighten and brighten a room. The Jigsaw team does recommend using a contractor for crown molding, but if you are handy with a saw then you can probably handle the job. Take your ceiling to new heights with this easy update!

For more information on crown molding and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

Unique Ideas, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

Haute Tin Roof

May 16, 2014 Jigsaw Design 3 Comments

Welcome back to Part 2 of our series on ceiling décor. Today we will explore a new twist on ceiling tiles. While ceiling tiles have been used throughout history since 12^th Century Japan, interestingly enough, they still serve the same purpose, aesthetics and acoustics. In the modern world, tin ceilings and ornate drop ceiling tiles are vintage chic, and the Jigsaw Designers are big fans.

Ceiling tiles are a great way to add drama and character to your space. Drop ceiling tiles, tin ceiling tiles and porcelain tiles can be installed indoor as well as outdoor. Today’s ceiling tiles are available in many styles, sizes, colors, and materials. Designs vary in materials from wood, metal, leather, fiber as well as the more common drywall. Some drop ceiling tiles can be found with recycled materials if you are searching for an eco-conscious option.

Drop ceiling tiles are a smart addition to your home as they are sag proof, waterproof and washable. These tiles are available in a variety of designs and colors and materials. Not only do dropped ceiling tiles work wonders for acoustics in a noisy room like the living or family room, but it also adds style and character to the home. Using ceiling tiles will create interesting visual effects with shapes, patterns, and textures and can even add support and insulation.

One of our favorite types of ceiling tile is stamped metal panels. This Victorian chic throwback can transform the look of a room. While true vintage panels give a nod to our eco-conscious world, this ceiling gives a cozy yet prestigious vibe like no other. While working well in any room, we especially love to see tin ceilings in kitchens, hallways and family rooms. Jigsaw recently installed a faux tin ceiling in a conference room with an equestrian style décor. The look is a flawless blend of masculine and feminine with the tin ceiling being the perfect complement to the room.

If you want to try this unique trend yet keep your cost down, the least expensive way to get the tin ceiling tile look is by using plastic ceiling tiles that are paintable. This is what the Jigsaw team used in the above conference room. The plastic tile is very easy to install yourself and they come in both direct mount and grid system. It depends on your ceiling as to which option to use. The tile can be found online at ProcCeilingtiles.com or at your neighborhood Home Depot or Lowes. They all have a wide selection of colors, styles and patterns as well as pressed tin options.

Porcelain tiles have been used in bathrooms, kitchens and swimming pools for ages. So why not use them on the ceiling? Below we have included an image with a bathroom that is tiled from floor to ceiling with small simple porcelain tiles. The results are dramatic without being overpowering and monotonous. An install like this would require a professional, however if you are handy some ceiling tile installs are simple enough to do yourself. We also love the look of ceiling tiles in outdoor archways and the ceiling of your veranda or patio area. Revamp your space with this creative and artistic look and enjoy all of your couture surroundings.

For more information on decorating your ceiling and resources visit the contact page on the Jigsaw Design Group website at www.jigsawdesigngroup.com. Someone will quickly contact you with more information. Please subscribe to the blog for more informative articles like these, and check out our Facebook page for more tips and images! Be sure to ‘like us’ on Facebook!

What's Hot by JIGSAW DESIGN GROUP

Category Archives: Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

The Art Deco Revival

Black and White

Smoke and Mirrors

The New Look of Wainscoting

Wall Medallions

Brick Wall Interiors

The Empty Frame Wall

Back in Black

Crown Molding and Medallions

Haute Tin Roof

INTERIOR HOME & OFFICE DESIGN, DECORATING AND REMODELS