Style Blog

The beauty of Beverly Hills is well known, but that is not all it is known for. Beverly Hills is famous for its residents. The residents of Beverly Hills are often celebrities and they tend to live off the cream of the crop. Their living conditions are lavish and luxurious. Here's some of the most extravagant homes, going. Not only are these mansions the most expensive, per square foot- they come empty! You would really need a California interior design degree, in order to fill them up!

Hearst Mansion

There are mansions, and then there are mansions the size of Hearst Mansion. If the grandeur of this estate were not enough to widen your eyes, then its cultural background would certainly begin to pique your interest. Hearst Mansion was used for one of the scenes from the Godfather, and it was the honeymoon suite for JFK and Jackie. 

There are 29 bedrooms in this massive estate. For the guests luxury, there is a disco room and a theater built into the complex. It’s not lacking when it comes to water either. There is not one but three pools on the estate.

What does an estate like this cost? $165 million is the price set for this opulence.

Fleur De Lys 

Have you ever fancied yourself as as member of a European royal family? Well, if you can fork out the asking price, you would know exactly how it feels to be a member of European royalty.

Outside space is an extension of the home, so the same decision-making process can be employed when it comes to selecting furniture and designing a great garden. No longer simply a green patch to be used occasionally, gardens can be developed creatively to make an impact all of their own.

When it comes to designing effective outside space, there are a number of factors that come into play, including space, budget and individual preference. By thinking about these factors from the outset, it's easier to focus on getting the end result perfect.

Outside structures.
From children's playhouses to orangeries and conservatories, there are a number of buildings that can all become a focal point and have an impact on outside space. Before purchasing a garden structure, first consider the area and make sure it fits comfortably. A greenhouse or conservatory can be a welcome addition but should not dominate the area.

If space is an issue, there are plenty of ways to be creative and many sheds and garden buildings are neat and modern, allowing for the best use of any garden. No longer just constructed from wood or glass, a range of materials can be found, including resin and acrylic. With so much choice, it's not difficult to find something that blends in or stands out, depending on preference and which will make the most of the space.

Patio furniture.
Garden furniture can be difficult, especially since the choice available is somewhat overwhelming. Added to that, tables and chairs need to not only be functional, but also fulfil a range of purposes, from al fresco dining to relaxing in the sun. As a major investment, garden furniture must be durable, fit for purpose and aesthetically pleasing. From sleek aluminium and glass to natural wicker and wood, there is something for every taste and budget, but it can take some deliberation to get it right.

Consider the overall effect you are hoping to achieve and decide what style of furniture will fit in best. A contemporary or oriental garden will require a modest, uncomplicated garden set, while a traditional English garden would suit something altogether different.

Accessories.
Gardens can be wild or manicured, but every garden can benefit from accessories. From flamboyant water features to ornate bird tables, each and every garden can find its way through creative accessorising. When opting for a piece that will take pride of place, look at any existing features and structures before choosing a complimentary item.

A modern trend is to compartmentalise gardens and in these cases, it's nice to choose something for each section. For example, an oriental area could include bamboo chimes, while in the same garden, a planted area could make room for attractive pots.

Whether you desire orangeries and conservatories, or a smart garden set, outside space is important and should be seen as a continuation of indoor living space. By looking at a garden critically, it's easier to design it appropriately with an injection of creativity to make the space come alive.

AUTHOR BIO:
Alyson McGraw writes regularly on many different subjects, including decorating and design, for a range of home and garden websites and blogs. She is currently gaining inspiration for her garden from Breckenridge, who she writes for in this instance.

With the holidays round the corner, people want to decorate their homes for Halloween and Christmas. LED Christmas lights are available in various shapes, colors and sizes which makes them suitable for every occasion. Here are some wonderful ideas on how can LED Christmas lights be used during the holidays, festivities and other occasions among family and friends.

The bedroom is that one place in the house where you retire to after a long day. Whether you're alone or a couple, you should go out of your way to make your bedroom as relaxing and inviting as possible. Here are some tips to help you along:

 
There is nothing like the warmer weather to inspire you to tackle those home improvements and give your rooms a fresh makeover. From the hottest colour trends to stylish furniture and funky accessories, it is easy to inject the wow factor into your home.

Whether you prefer a traditional look or are looking for something chic and contemporary, home decorating trends continue to cross all style boundaries in 2013.

If you have a flair for design and are willing to get stuck in with a paint brush, you can do the job yourself. However, if structural work is required, you may need to obtain quotes from one of the many architects and interior designers in London and other cities.

Latest colours

Emerald green is the most talked about colour of the year, Worn by trendsetters and adorning stylish homes across the country. If a bold colour statement is a step too far for your walls, there are plenty of accessories available in this vibrant shade.


Neutrals are also predicted to make a comeback this year. Although for most of us, they never left! This year grey is replacing magnolia as the neutral of choice. Sleek and cool, shimmering grey can offer the wow factor, but you'll need to warm up the space with splashes of colour.


Neon is another shade that has been taking the fashion shows by storm. Shades of citrus, turquoise and hot pink can brighten up the drabbest room. Again, you can opt for the subtle approach and seek out neon accessories, rather than shock with floor to ceiling lime green.

Furnishings and accessories

Shiny chrome and silver have definitely seen their day, as the trend towards warm metals continues. Fixtures and fittings come in various metallic finishes from bronze and copper to brass.

Animal and botanic prints continue to flourish. Although this year the birds may fly away to make way for winged creatures of a smaller kind! Expect to see insects creeping onto curtains, cushions and other soft furnishings. If the thought makes you shudder then ladybirds and butterflies could offer a friendly alternative.

The trend for bringing the outdoors inside is likely to remain. Wood and other sustainable materials such as glass will offer a rustic feel that should appeal to nature lovers and those with eco-homes. Look on the beach for unusual stones or pieces of driftwood to make your own unique designs.

3D movies continue to dominate the big screen and many interior designers are looking to re-create the same effect in the home. Textured wallpaper, artwork and 3D tiles are making an appearance in the most stylish of homes.


There is a wealth of ideas to transform your house into a home. Keeping an eye on the latest colour and home decorating trends could be the inspiration you need to leave your comfort zone and try a new look.

Whether you are a budding interior designer yourself or are seeking to employ a professional company for structural work and design ideas, there are dozens of architects and interior designers in London and across the country who could help you to achieve the home of your dreams.

AUTHOR BIO

Monica haubert is an interior designer who writes a regular blog on the subject. Visit the site to find more information .

What does the word ‘chandelier’ conjure up in your mind? For most of us, it’s an image of a huge, cut-crystal light feature that is found in period homes and manors across the world. But chandeliers have moved on – they don’t need to be old fashioned, and they look as stunning in a modern city pad as they do in a huge country manor. Don’t believe me? Read on to find out how 21^st century chandeliers can add a touch of contemporary style to any home.

Geometric styling

Modern chandeliers are works of art as much as they are light fittings. Gone are the Swarovski crystals – what’s hot is hand-blown glass shades and geometric designs. They’re still beautiful, statement pieces, but they are tailored to fit modern homes. When you’re choosing a 21^st century chandelier, you need something that sits well in contemporary surroundings – a chandelier which complements your exposed brick walls, dark wood flooring and minimalist white furniture.

So, no crystals?

Nobody’s saying you can’t have a crystal chandelier in a modern home – if that’s the look you want to go for then it can often look stunning! But modern chandeliers are all about different shapes. Ball shaped chandeliers studded with crystals are half disco ball, half light fitting – they spin and catch the light beautifully and are sure to become a topic of conversation. Chrome framed chandeliers with delicate crystal beading are perfect for bedrooms, adding a touch of light and glamour to any space without being overly-imposing.