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Creating a space that reflects cultural heritage and religious values is deeply important for many Jewish families. The design of a Jewish home is not only about aesthetics but also about imbuing the living space with elements that demonstrate a commitment to tradition and identity. As you walk through the doorway of a Jewish household, you may notice a mezuzah affixed to the right-hand side—a small scroll enclosed in a decorative case inscribed with Hebrew verses from the Torah.

In every Jewish home, the design choices tend to blend practicality with symbolism, enriching daily life with reminders of faith and community. From the display of heirloom menorahs to the placement of kosher kitchen appliances, these elements serve a dual purpose of functionality and spiritual significance. The dining room is often the center stage for observing the Sabbath and festivals, where family and friends gather around a thoughtfully set table, highlighting the importance of hospitality and shared memory in Jewish culture.

Approaching the design with respect and understanding, you’ll find that many items within the home are rich with history and meaning. Artworks depicting Biblical scenes or Hebrew letters might adorn the walls, while a collection of religious texts is usually accessible for study and reflection. Each element works harmoniously to create an environment that is both comforting and inspiring, where the heritage is lived and celebrated every day.

Architectural Features

In designing a Jewish home, certain architectural features are integral for embracing religious traditions. These features enrich your living space with a sense of heritage and observance.

Mezuzah Placement

A mezuzah, containing a parchment with Hebrew verses from the Torah, should be affixed to the right side of every doorway in your home. It’s placed at an angle, with the top leaning toward the room you’re entering. In terms of height, it should ideally be located within the bottom of the top third of the doorframe. This small yet profound detail quietly transforms your home’s portals into constant reminders of faith and commandments.

Sukkah Space Considerations

Building a sukkah for the festival of Sukkot requires thoughtful spatial planning. Your home’s design should include a dedicated area for the sukkah that meets these criteria:

  • Accessibility: Easily accessible from your home, ideally through a door that leads directly to the sukkah space
  • Clearance: Enough vertical and horizontal space to accommodate the structure and the family or guests who will gather within
  • Unobstructed Sky View: The area should not be under permanent structures or dense foliage to ensure the sukkah has a clear view of the sky above, as per religious guidelines.

Natural Light and Windows

Maximizing natural light is not just a matter of aesthetics; it’s a spiritual priority too. Large windows on the east-facing walls allow for sunlight to enter in the mornings, which is ideal for morning prayers. When considering window placement, think about creating a warm, welcoming environment. Additionally, the use of sheer curtains helps to diffuse light, maintaining privacy while still fulfilling the commandment of hospitality by symbolically inviting passersby into your home.

Interior Design

When you step into a Jewish home, the interior design often reflects a rich tapestry of tradition and modernity. Warmth, community, and faith are visually presented, creating an ambiance that’s both inviting and culturally significant.

Colors and Textiles

In selecting colors and textiles for your Jewish home, you typically lean towards warm, earthy tones that evoke a sense of peace and heritage. Popular choices include:

ColorMeaning
BlueDivinity and spirituality
WhitePurity and new beginnings
GoldJoy and celebration
RedEnergy and passion (used sparingly)

Fabrics often feature intricate patterns and designs, with a preference for high-quality materials such as:

  • Silk or velvet for Torah covers
  • Linen or cotton for tablecloths during Shabbat and holidays

Jewish Art and Symbols

In terms of Jewish art and symbols, you may notice a variety of meaningful pieces that serve as daily reminders of faith and history.

  • Menorah: Represents the ancient Temple’s Menorah and is a symbol of light and wisdom.
  • Star of David: Often found in artwork, it symbolizes God’s rule over the universe in all six directions: north, south, east, west, up, and down.
  • Shofar: A musical horn traditionally made from a ram’s horn, the shofar is an ancient Jewish ritual instrument used during religious ceremonies, particularly in Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services, symbolizing spiritual awakening and repentance.
  • Chai: Symbolizes life and is a common motif in both jewelry and art.
  • Hamsa: A protective symbol against the evil eye, often intricately decorated and placed near doorways.

Art may range from classical Biblical scenes to contemporary abstract pieces that still resonate with Jewish themes. Whether it’s a framed blessing for the home (Birkat HaBayit) or a child’s artwork from Hebrew school, each piece contributes to the mosaic of a Jewish living space.

Ritual Objects

In a Jewish home, ritual objects form the core of religious and cultural practices. The following items are vital to maintaining tradition and fulfilling commandments.

Shabbat Essentials

Candlesticks and Matches: Every Friday night, you kindle two Shabbat candles, symbolizing the dual commandments to “keep” and “remember” the Sabbath. Having a beautiful pair of candlesticks elevates the mitzvah and enhances your home’s ambiance.

Challah Cover and Bread Board: Cover your challahs with a special cloth before blessing the wine and bread. This creates a moment of suspense and respect for the bread, which typically comes on a dedicated board or tray.

Kosher Kitchen Set-Up

Meat and Dairy Separation: Your kitchen should have separate areas for meat and dairy, including:

  • Countertops: Designate specific counters for meat and dairy preparation.
  • Utensils and Cookware: Maintain two sets of pots, pans, and utensils, one for meat and one for dairy, to avoid cross-contamination.

Toveling Utensils: Newly acquired metal and glassware used for food must be immersed in a mikvah before their first use.

Pesach Storage Solutions

Special Cabinets or Containers: Designate storage areas to keep Passover utensils separate from chametz (leavened products) year-round. Labeling helps avoid confusion.

Secure and Clean Spaces: Your Pesach items need to be stored in a way that prevents chametz contamination. Clean and seal shelves or containers to uphold the strict standards of Passover kashrut.

Practical Modern Living

Creating a Jewish home that accommodates modern living while respecting traditional practices can be quite a balancing act. Let’s explore how technology and security measures can integrate into your household without disrupting the essence of Jewish traditions.

Technology and Sabbath

In your Jewish home, technology plays a crucial role, but it must respect the Sabbath (Shabbat). Various devices are available that are specifically designed to comply with Halacha (Jewish law) so you can still utilize technology without breaking Shabbat’s prohibition of certain activities.

  • Shabbat Elevators: These operate automatically, stopping at every floor so you can avoid pressing buttons.
  • Sabbath Mode Appliances: Certain ovens and refrigerators come with a Sabbath mode that disables digital displays and alters temperature adjustment rules to comply with Shabbat restrictions.

Remember, consultations with a knowledgeable authority can guide your choices, ensuring they align with Halachic considerations.

Home Security and Privacy

Your home’s security and privacy are paramount, and smart home technology offers you peace of mind without compromising on your values.

  • Security Cameras: While these can be used, some may prefer turning them off during Shabbat or using recording methods that are permissible.
  • Smart Locks: Fully automate your home’s locks, with some models designed to detect and allow entry for family members during Shabbat appropriately.

Technology Guidelines:

FeatureShabbat ComplianceConsiderations
Automated TimersOften compliantSet before Shabbat to avoid any direct interaction
Motion SensorsVariesSome believe indirect triggering is permissible; consult an authority
Smart Home AssistantsGenerally not compliant without specific modificationsDisable or adjust settings in advance

By integrating Halachah-compliant technology and thoughtfully designed security measures, your home can reflect the perfect blend of tradition and modern functionality.

In the world of television, living rooms become more than just backdrops; they transform into sources of inspiration, reflecting the essence of comfort, style, and personality. From the eclectic charm of Monica’s apartment in Friends to the sleek lines of the Drapers’ space in Mad Men, iconic TV show living rooms have captivated our imaginations.

This article explores how to bring elements of these beloved spaces into your own home, blending fictional elegance with real-world livability.

Monica’s Apartment – Friends

Monica’s apartment in Friends is a treasure trove of eclectic interior design and cosy comfort, making it one of the most memorable living spaces in TV history. Its iconic purple walls set a vibrant backdrop that’s both bold and inviting, serving as inspiration for those looking to infuse their own spaces with personality and warmth.

The mix of vintage and contemporary furniture, from the comfy, oversized sofa to the unique kitchen tiles and exposed brick, showcases how combining different styles can create a cohesive look. Layered with mismatched throw pillows, an array of picture frames, and an open, welcoming layout, Monica’s apartment encourages a blend of functionality and personal flair in living room design.

Sheldon’s Apartment – The Big Bang Theory

Sheldon’s apartment, a central hub in The Big Bang Theory, reflects a unique blend of functionality, personal interests, and scientific curiosity. Unlike typical living spaces, this apartment is characterised by its practical layout, which accommodates both a workspace filled with scientific books, gadgets, and memorabilia, and a living area that remains welcoming.

The living room’s notable features include a comfortable, albeit modest, sofa that faces a television surrounded by bookshelves crammed with literature and collectables, symbolising Sheldon’s intellectual pursuits. The space is illuminated by natural light, which complements the neutral colour palette, accented with pops of colour from various scientific posters and the iconic Flash superhero cushion.

Carrie’s Apartment – Sex and the City

Carrie Bradshaw’s living room in Sex and the City is a testament to her unique style, blending modern and eclectic elements with a personal touch. The space is characterised by soft, airy tones contrasted with bold, vibrant accents, embodying a sense of warmth and personality. Central to her living room is a stylish sofa that serves as inspiration for those looking to personalise their own space.

Drawing from Carrie’s apartment, designing a bespoke sofa inspired by the one she has involves selecting fabrics, patterns, and colours that resonate with her aesthetic. This could mean choosing plush materials, experimenting with bold patterns, or opting for a colour that stands out as a statement piece.

Carrie’s use of open shelving for books and accessories, a mix of lighting fixtures for ambience, and an eclectic selection of art pieces can also inspire a living space that’s both fashionable and functional. These elements together create an inviting atmosphere that balances chic sophistication with a cosy, lived-in feel.

Downton Abbey

The grandeur and timeless elegance of the living rooms in Downton Abbey transport viewers to an era of exquisite taste and opulent design, set in the beautiful grounds of Highclere Castle. These spaces are marked by their attention to detail, from the sumptuous upholstery of armchairs and sofas to the intricate patterns of the wallpapers that line the walls. High ceilings adorned with elaborate crown mouldings, paired with the soft glow of natural light cascading through large, stately windows, highlight the rich textures of velvet drapes and Persian rugs underfoot.

Key furniture pieces, such as antique wooden tables and ornate cabinets, are strategically placed to accentuate a sense of historical luxury. For those seeking to infuse their own living spaces with a touch of Downton Abbey’s sophistication, incorporating classic elements such as tufted furniture, elegant lighting fixtures, and rich, layered textiles can create a similarly majestic atmosphere.

Full House

The living room in Full House exudes a sense of warmth and family togetherness, making it an ideal inspiration for those aiming to create a cosy, inviting space. This iconic setting is characterised by comfortable seating arrangements that encourage family gatherings and conversations. The use of a large, plush sofa and several armchairs ensures ample seating for everyone, reflecting a layout that prioritises comfort and inclusivity.

The Full House living room also features a mix of soft lighting and natural light, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. Decorative touches like family photos, cosy throw blankets, and casual pillows add a personal, lived-in feel.

To emulate this family-friendly vibe, consider incorporating durable yet comfortable furniture, optimising seating to foster social interaction, and personalising the space with family memorabilia and soft, inviting textiles. This approach not only captures the essence of the Tanner family’s living room but also turns your living space into a haven for making memories.

The battle against clutter is perpetual. A clutter-free home is not merely an aesthetic goal but a pursuit of tranquility and efficiency. Fortunately, creative storage solutions offer a remedy, turning functional items into design elements.

When implementing these storage solutions, consider consulting with an interior decorator in Elmhurst, as their expertise can add a personalized touch — ensuring that the storage solutions seamlessly blend with the overall aesthetic of your home. Now, let’s explore ten innovative storage solutions designed to transform chaos into calm.

1. Multi-Functional Furniture

Investing in furniture with hidden storage compartments is a game-changer. Ottomans, coffee tables, and bed frames with built-in storage offer discreet places to stow away items like blankets, magazines, or seasonal clothing, maintaining a tidy living space.

2. Floating Shelves

Maximize vertical space by installing floating shelves. These provide additional storage for books, decorative items, or kitchen essentials and create a visually appealing display. Arrange them in various sizes and heights for a dynamic and organized look.

3. Under-Stair Storage

Utilize the often-overlooked space under the stairs. Customized drawers, cabinets, or open shelves can turn this area into a functional storage hub for shoes, bags, or even a mini home office, seamlessly integrating storage with architectural design.

4. Baskets and Bins

Incorporate stylish baskets and bins as both decorative elements and practical storage solutions. Place them strategically in living rooms, bedrooms, or bathrooms to corral toys, accessories, or toiletries, adding texture and warmth to the decor.

5. Wall-Mounted Hooks

Free up floor and counter space by installing wall-mounted hooks. These versatile solutions can hold everything from coats and hats in entryways to kitchen utensils and towels, providing accessible storage without sacrificing style.

6. Hidden Cabinets

Camouflage storage by integrating hidden cabinets into the design. For example, consider kitchen cabinets with pull-out pantry shelves or mirrored cabinets in the bathroom. These concealed compartments keep essentials organized while maintaining a sleek and clutter-free appearance.

7. Rolling Storage Solutions Carts

Portable and versatile, rolling storage carts are a practical addition to any room. In the kitchen, they can serve as mobile islands for extra counter space, while in the living room, they can store crafts, office supplies, or media equipment, adapting to changing needs.

8. Dual-Purpose Room Dividers

Opt for room dividers that serve a dual purpose. Bookshelves, storage cubes, or screens can define spaces in an open floor plan while offering valuable storage. This not only maximizes functionality but also adds an element of visual interest to the room.

9. Over-the-Door Organizers

Make the most of unused space by utilizing the back of doors. Over-the-door organizers are ideal for shoes, accessories, or pantry items. These simple additions are easy to install and instantly create more storage without sacrificing floor or wall space.

10. Staircase Drawers

For homes with staircases, transform each step into a drawer. Staircase drawers provide discreet storage for shoes, linens, or miscellaneous items, seamlessly integrating functionality into an architectural feature.

From Chaos to Harmony

In the pursuit of a clutter-free home, creativity becomes the ally. These ten storage solutions demonstrate that organization can be both functional and visually pleasing.

By strategically incorporating these ideas, you can transform your living space, turning chaos into harmony. Embrace the potential of every nook and cranny, and let creative storage solutions be the key to unlocking a home that is not only organized but also a haven of calm and beauty.

The maximalist design philosophy encourages you to create spaces that are both bold and expressive, celebrating an eclectic mix of styles, periods, and materials.

Maximalism is the perfect design aesthetic for those who appreciate the beauty of layering and mixing patterns, colours, and textures, and who have a bold, adventurous spirit.

At its core, maximalism is about breaking free from the constraints of minimalism, and embracing the rich and complex aspects of life. It is about creating a space that tells a story, expresses your unique personality, and reflects your eclectic tastes all whilst showcasing the things we love that bring us joy.

Whether you prefer bold florals, graphic prints, intricate mosaics, or a mix of all three, maximalism is all about celebrating the beauty of diversity and individuality.

The maximalist approach to interior design is not for the faint of heart, and requires a certain level of confidence and creativity. This style is not limited to one particular type of room, and can be incorporated into any space in your home, including your living room, dining room, kitchen, or bedroom, basically any space that requires a bit of a fun injection!

The key to creating a successful maximalist space is to find a balance between the different elements. It is important to choose pieces that complement each other, and to have a clear vision of how you want the space to look and feel.

When done right, maximalism can create an environment that is both visually striking and highly functional, with each element serving a purpose and contributing to the overall ambiance.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or updating an existing space, incorporating maximalist elements into your home is a surefire way to add a touch of personality and flair.

From bold wall coverings and statement artwork to quirky accessories and unusual lighting fixtures, the possibilities for creating a maximalist space are endless. So embrace your inner maximalist, and get ready to create a space that is both eclectic and beautiful and remember if you love it then it can’t be wrong!

Its no surprise that pink is my favourite colour, my hair is usually pink, I wear pink lipstick every day, 70% of my wardrobe is pink and there’s an element of pink in every single room in my house. Pink is my happy colour – I love it!

Adding a pop of pink to your home interiors is like adding a little ray of sunshine to your life. Pink is a hue that is often associated with love, happiness, and joy, and incorporating it into your home can bring a playful and cheerful atmosphere to any space.

Wall colour Olivia by Vintro Paint, Pink weather clock Bramwell Brown.

When it comes to interior design, people often play it safe with neutral colours like beige, grey, and white. While these colours are classic and timeless, they can often lack the energy and excitement that comes with incorporating a bold shade like pink.

Not only is pink a fun and playful colour, but it also has a range of benefits for our mental and emotional well-being. Studies have shown that pink can have a calming effect on the mind and body, reducing anxiety and stress levels. Pink is also known to increase feelings of love, compassion, and warmth, making it the perfect colour to add to a room you spend a lot of time in, such as your bedroom or living room.

Incorporating pink into your home doesn’t mean you have to go all-out and paint your walls bubblegum Barbie pink – although it does sound amazing! There are many subtle and sophisticated ways to add pink to your interiors, such as using pink accents in the form of throw pillows, curtains, or rugs. You can also opt for a pink statement wall or piece of furniture, such as a pink velvet sofa or a pink ombre accent wall.

Ombre Wall created using a selection from the Simply Refresh range from Dulux.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match different shades of pink to create a unique and eye-catching look. Pair pale baby pink with deep fuchsia for a bold and vibrant look, or mix baby pink with soft peach for a sweet and romantic vibe. The possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating pink into your home interiors.

So, next time you’re thinking about updating your home, consider adding a touch of pink. Not only will it bring a playful and cheerful atmosphere to your space, but it will also have a positive impact on your mental and emotional well-being. Embrace the power of pink and enjoy the happy and joyful vibe it brings to your home.

The Beverly Hills Hotel, famously known as the “Pink Palace,” is a prime example of the timeless elegance and sophistication that a touch of pink can bring to a space. The iconic hotel features lush pink accents throughout, from its vibrant pink exterior to its plush pink velvet seating and whimsical pink and green patterned wallpaper. It’s no wonder that the hotel has been a favourite among Hollywood’s elite for decades.

But you don’t have to be a Hollywood star to bring a bit of pink into your home. Here are 10 ways to incorporate pink into your interiors and bring a touch of the famous Pink Palace into your own home:

  1. Paint a feature wall: A pop of pink on a single wall can create a bold statement that will instantly uplift your space – or how about a pink ceiling?
  2. Textiles: Soft pink throw cushions, textured throws, or curtains can add a touch of femininity and warmth to any room.
  3. Artwork: Incorporate pink into your decor through vibrant art pieces – or create your own. I find Etsy a great place to look for unique Art.
  4. Furniture: Invest in a statement piece of pink furniture, such as a pink sofa or velvet scalloped chair, to make a bold statement in your living room.
  5. Rugs: A plush pink rug can bring a pop of colour and texture to your floors.
  6. Light fixtures: Opt for pink light fixtures, such as a pink chandelier or lamp, to add a touch of glamour to your space – a pink lampshade can change the whole mood of a room as the light will be diffused and give everything a super peachy pink glow.
  7. Accents: Small details, such as pink vases, candle holders, and picture frames, can make a big impact – stylists like to use odd number so think 3/5/7 rule when grouping objects in your home.
  8. Wallpaper: Wallpaper is a great way to bring a fun, playful pattern into your space. Opt for a pink and green print, botanicals are good – look for cool palm prints or banana leaf designs,
  9. Kitchen accessories: Add a pop of pink to your kitchen with playful pink accessories, such as a pink tea kettle or toaster.
  10. Plant life: Bring the outdoors in with pink flowers or pink-hued foliage, such as fuchsia or rose-colored succulents – with so many natural looking faux’s on the market there great choice around.

Pink is a versatile and timeless colour that can bring sophistication, femininity, and playfulness to any interior. Whether you opt for bold statements or subtle touches, a little bit of pink in your home is sure to make you feel like a Hollywood star.