By LIN ELLIS
DavidsonNews.net

Every room has 6 main surfaces: the 4 walls, the floor & the ceiling. Most of us pay a lot of attention to our flooring choice & certainly debate about the color that goes on our walls. But, how many of us put the same thought into the ceiling finish?

Okay, here is a confession. In most cases, I am not a fan of what I will call a “busy” ceiling. I love a crisp white ceiling ~ smooth finish, please, no popcorn ~ & crown molding that is decadently thick. But, Stylephile is all about embracing all the design options out there, so here are some patterned ceilings. Question? Do you love? Or hate?

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By LIN ELLIS
DavidsonNews.net

Mercury glass actually has no mercury in it ~ but is rather a solution of silver nitrate sealed between sheets of glass ~ a process that creates a unique mirrored surface with a sleek silvery shine. First produced in the 19th century, mercury glass created a instant sensation & has stood the test of time. Mercury glass works in both traditional & modern rooms & adds a sophisticated bit of sparkle to any space. I’ve pulled together some pieces that may work in your home, porch or patio.

The Paros mercury glass lantern collection from Pottery Barn ~

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By LIN ELLIS
DavidsonNews.net

We have been adorning ourselves with metals for thousands & thousands of years. Around 5,000 B.C., copper was the first metal used & around 3,000 B.C. Mediterranean cultures began working with gold. Centuries later, the Greeks started incorporating precious & semi-precious stones into their pieces. In China, silver was the preferred metal, but in all of these cultures, jewelry represented power & prestige & was worn by only the wealthy or privileged. Read the full story

By LIN ELLIS
DavidsonNews.net

Last Friday, I wrote about how much you can refresh the look of a room by just changing your throw pillows. Designers & stylists are creating very unique spaces by mixing color, pattern & texture in their pillow selections.

This daybed is dressed with solids & one pattern & mixes square, rectangular & round shapes ~ the solid white pillow balances out the pattern while the rest of the colors are similar in tone.

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By LIN ELLIS
DavidsonNews.net

With few exceptions, I advise clients & friends to purchase clean lined & neutrally upholstered or slip-covered sofas & chairs. These will be the most expensive items you purchase for your living space &, by keeping it neutral, they will be something you can live with for many, many years while still maintaining the ability to change up the look of your room when you crave an update.

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By LIN ELLIS
DavidsonNews.net

Sometimes the best information you can provide for your readers is pointing them towards another authority. Here are some awesome links from some of my favorite blogs & resources to give you your best summer.

From Apartment Therapy, the best popsicle molds, ice cream machines, blenders, juicers & cream whippers ~

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