You don't need a view of New York City to get that New York style.
In a city that is always one step ahead, it's no surprise New York's sense of style triumphs when it comes to urban decor and chic sophistication. Whether you live downtown or reside in cities where traffic is something that happens somewhere else, you can still create that trendy cosmopolitan style. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Give the illusion of high ceilings by avoiding ceiling fans and even overhead lighting, which cause the eyes tend to gravitate toward the center and height of the room. Instead, invest in contemporary wall sconces or furniture that is low slung to give your ceiling those extra miles. Also, lofts tend to have that industrial look with their skeletal ductwork ceilings. An alternative to tearing down your ceiling is adding corrugated metal ceiling for texture and character.
2. Clear out your clutter for a bright and spacious look. Start by getting organized. Once your possessions are out of sight, everything starts to look orderly and open. Use baskets or even a bucket to store your belongings and look for other ways to store your things while still keeping the look stylish. For instance, open shelves provide a way to store your books, albums and photos while letting your possessions become personal decor.
3. Bring the swanky street style of New York into your home by investing in art. It's easy to get intimidated when choosing artwork for the first time, so start with trendy department stores where they offer one-of-a-kind pieces. Look for contemporary, abstract work that complements the style of your home, and if you're feeling extra hip, look into street art. Urban art dresses up walls that are in need of character and adds a pop of color. Posters are a cheaper alternative that give your walls personality.
4. Follow the theme of contemporary artwork and look for furniture that is minimal, chic and ultra modern. With street art hanging on your walls, you definitely need to style your furniture accordingly. Contemporary pieces can get pricey, so look into thrift stores and vintage specialty shops for a cheaper alternative. Shopping these stores may take some hunting and scavenging but will definitely save you big time. Retro-modern loft furniture is inspired by the '50s, '60s and '70s, so don't be put off by its vintage roots. Contrast the antique pieces with industrial accents for that eclectic style.
5. Use an empty corner to create your own nook. Limited space is a given for New York apartments, lofts and homes, so New Yorkers' style of using space usually calls for double-duty work. Whether it's a small work space or a reading area, create your own private retreat by simply adding a lamp, coffee table and chair. If you have a built-in bench, add a small table and some extra pillows for a charming breakfast nook or casual dining area. With these basics, you can always add other accessories, like a bookshelf or decorative mirror, to warm up the setting.
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