Category Archives: Unique Ideas

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!

Unique Ideas

Exposed Ceiling Beams

June 17, 2014 Jigsaw Design Leave a comment

If you are looking to make a paramount statement in your home, then consider using exposed ceiling beams. This distinct and unforgettable look adds space and energy to your home and works well in living rooms, kitchens and even bedrooms. Ceiling beams already exist behind the ceiling works in your home or office. Therefore you have the option of exposing them; all you need to do is pull down the plasterboard that is covering the beams. The Jigsaw designers love exposing the entire ceiling trusses and painting the beams for added effect.

Maybe you are not looking to demolition the ceiling and deal with the mess of exposing your covered beams. Well, you are in luck. These days you can simply add exposed beams to your ceiling to get the look. These faux beams can be added by using real wood to your existing ceiling. Reclaimed wood is very popular right now, as well as simulated wood. Real wood beams are the most authentic looking of course but are very costly and heavy to install and the Jigsaw Design team suggest using a professional to install the heavy beams. The second option is the simulated wood. These beams are much more cost effective and lighter weight as they are hollowed out beams made of real wood or polyurethane.

The exposed ceiling beam plays no favorites among styles. This character adding feature plays well in industrial lofts, Spanish style, traditional, modern, craftsman, you name it and it can work. It’s also not only reserved for the living room. There is always room for drama in the bedroom, and yes, I am also speaking from a design stand point. The following bedrooms have their own take on the exposed ceiling beam. Whitewashed, rustic or crisply painted; these rooms are filled with personality.

The ceiling is often overlooked when it comes to interior design. However, incorporating the ceiling in your décor is the perfect canvas to create drama and add dimension to your space. We hope the images and tips included in this post will inspire you to consider adding or exposing your ceiling beams to fit your home style. Enjoy and have fun taking your décor to a higher level.

For more information on exposed ceiling beams 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!

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!

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

Keep Looking Up

May 13, 2014 Jigsaw Design Leave a comment

Michelangelo was on to something when he painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. What a groundbreaking use of space and approach to artistic expression! Like the Vatican, decorating the ceiling in your home is a great way to liven up a room, add visual interest and tell your artistic story. Over the course of the next few blogs we will explore unique ways to include your ceiling as part of your décor.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to decorating the ceiling. First we will address painting as it is the most “do it yourself” options. Painting is the quickest and least expensive way to achieve this update. Simply painting the ceiling one solid accent color can instantly add depth to the overall look of your space. It’s fairly easy if you are up for the challenge and can be achieved in a solid afternoon of work. Using a paint roller with an extension handle will make this tedious job a bit easier than standing on a ladder with the typical roller.

If you are looking to add a bit of whimsy, try painting fun wide stripes or an interesting pattern. Stripes work well in a masculine or feminine setting simply by careful selection of color. Painting stripes on the ceiling works best if you have two people when taping. First measure the width between stripes on opposite ends of the ceiling. Next, using painting tape, stretch the tape very taught from one end to the other and attaching at the area marked with a pencil. If the tape is stretched taught your straight line should be a success. Then paint and remove the tape when almost fully dried.

Bold prints or patterns will bring new life to your space and add tons of character. When opting for an intricate pattern like an arabesque or bamboo weave a stencil is a must. Great stencils can be found online from many different resources like cuttingedgestencils.com. Prices range from $12-$70 for stencils and come in a wide selection. For something simple like polka dots, you can make the stencil yourself or find them everywhere online from Etsy to eBay. When using a stencil, taping and measuring are the key. The more secure your taping job is, the greater the success of the overall project. Aim for two thin coats of paint versus one thick coat. As always, carefully remove the stencil and use low tack tape.

The thought of painting the ceiling can be quite daunting. However, if you plan well and use some of these valuable tips you are sure to have success…and hopefully some fun in the process. Determine what inspires you…a color, a pattern or shape and get creative.

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

Une Touche d’ Elégance

May 8, 2014 Jigsaw Design 1 Comment

You have everything perfectly decorated in your space. You take a step back to admire your decorating skills, and you think…something is missing! After you peruse the images below, you will find the answer and know that it’s simple and understated, but it speaks volumes of l’elegance…molding! With a few easy steps and some inexpensive chair railing you can transform you bedroom to a decadent boudoir, a dining room into a social retreat, or your living room into an elegant lounge. At Jigsaw, we love adding chair railing to any room to maximize impact. It’s fun, it’s sexy and it’s easy…and we are going to show you how!

Here are the steps:

Select the width and style of railing you’d like to use for your project. Railing can be found at Home Depot, Lowe’s or most lumber yards.
Measure the size box you want, and the height of the chair rail (if desired).
Use a yardstick to draw the box directly on the wall. If you plan to use one color paint on the wall, the Jigsaw Designers recommend painting the full wall first, and then draw your railing.
Cut the railing with the measurements using an angle saw. Railing can be cut at Home Depot, Lowe’s or any lumber yard you choose if you don’t have an angle saw.
Paint the railing the desired color.
Nail the railing into the wall in the center of the railing. Fill in the corner cracks and nail holes with putty if necessary and then touch up paint.

These are the simple steps to follow. After that you can get as creative as you dare with painting. Below you will see how the Jigsaw team transformed a dull drab office into a glamorous and exciting place to work. First they painted the entire wall black, and then added the white chair railing. The overall look is classic and stunning.

Depth and dimension can be added to the room using monochromatic colors on the wall as well. For example a darker grey paint below the railing and a lighter grey above the railing can add interest without being too busy. Tone on tone can also be a very chic way to add railing in an understated fashion. While the Jigsaw Designers recommend using a professional for crown molding around the ceiling, they are however confident that anyone can complete this project with great results. We hope you are inspired to add drama and elegance to your space by following these simple steps for your railing project.

Before and After Photos:

For more information on wall moldings 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!

Flooring, Carpet and Rugs, Style, Unique Ideas, Wall Decor, Wall Paper, Art and Frames

Nature Does It Best

April 24, 2014 Jigsaw Design 1 Comment

Living in the environmentally conscious age we live in really inspires each of us to think outside the box. Granted we have always been taught to go green, recycle and not to ever waste water…but who knew that 70 year old barn my grandfather built would be worth so much money…torn down that is. Reclaimed wood is one of the many ways designers and architects are thinking in a sustainable format. Essentially, the wood found in barns, snow fences, and other outdoor buildings that have stood the test of time have a proven record of sustainability and are still ready for good use.

Cedar and cypress wood are a few of these hearty materials that are being used in a myriad of ways. Known as “Reclaimed Wood”, this natural resource is extracted, de-metaled, cleaned and sometimes treated if necessary. The wood can then be used for the exterior of the home, interior walls, stair cases, art and furniture. The Jigsaw Designers like mixing the rustic look of vintage wood into a modern home giving it new life, for example installing a reclaimed wood wall with polished concrete flooring giving a new twist and added interest and texture to the home. A formal dining room can be given an earthy warm feel while still being perfectly proper and luxurious when adding a reclaimed wood dining table. Combing old with new brings a vintage-fresh feel and cozy familiarity to your home.

While at one time being hard to come by, reclaimed wood can be found easily from a variety of resources on the internet. One of our favorite operations is called Trestlewood based in Utah and Idaho. The cost of recycled lumber varies, and in an “as is” condition will be more expensive than new, green lumber. While furniture is quite diverse in quality, style and price, it can be found through small custom mom and pop operations to chains like Restoration Hardware. We love this gorgeous sustainable credenza by Urban Woods LA included in the photos below. Also on the rise, sustainable restaurants are a trend we are seeing a lot more of. The Jigsaw Designers remodeled the local LA eatery, Fatty’s Public House, and installed a unique reclaimed wood ceiling and eye catching wood interiors throughout as seen in the photos below.

Using natural and reclaimed materials is a trend that we know will evolve as these things do, but buying sustainable and reusing will never go out of style.

No trees were harmed while writing this blog.

For more information on reclaimed wood 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: Unique Ideas

Smoke and Mirrors

The New Look of Wainscoting

Wall Medallions

Exposed Ceiling Beams

The Empty Frame Wall

Crown Molding and Medallions

Haute Tin Roof

Keep Looking Up

Une Touche d’ Elégance

Nature Does It Best

INTERIOR HOME & OFFICE DESIGN, DECORATING AND REMODELS