how to: add style to your home

Is your home just crying for a makeover? Whether you're looking to do a total redecorating job, need help merging your styles, or just want to give a room a little pick-me-up, you're in the right place with our expert decorating advice. Choosing your decor style can be tricky territory for newlyweds, especially if you've never lived together and your home styles aren't entirely in sync. But even if you've been sharing your space for a while, choosing your decor style means incorporating both of your needs. So where to begin? If you're starting from scratch or looking to redecorate, you need to think big. Luckily, we've got expert decorating advice on key rooms, from 5 tips for a luxurious living room to 6 secrets for a sexy bedroom. Have a question about more specific home styles? You'll find stylish solutions to all your questions, from best bedding options to doing over your bathroom. Or do you just want ideas for easy (and inexpensive!) decor fixes? Spice up your living space with our tips on budget bedroom makeovers, easy decor tricks, and displaying photos and art. We've also tracked down fabulous decor finds to suit all different home styles, including shabby-chic favorites, decor picks on a budget, and colorful kitchen accents. And check out style how-tos on everything from dressing up your mantel and arranging your coffee table with flair to creating beautiful blooming arrangements and using feng shui. With our expert decorating advice, choosing your decor style is simple.

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How to Decorate Using Cloches and Domes

First, here’s a history lesson. Cloches and domes first became famous in England during the Victorian period, soon after the Ottoman Empire was driven back and Europe gained control over much of the Middle East -- and their ports. This meant more traveling abroad, and the beginning of the practice of touring and collecting treasures to bring back home. The first zoos popped up during this time, as did the need for… cloches!

When tourists started collecting plants from tropical places and other different climates, cloches entered the picture. The bell-shaped glass domes are used to create a humid environment and keep in moisture, mimicking the natural climate of these collected plants.

So, how does this translate to modern times? Cloches and domes are perfect for a single prized plant that thrives in a humid environment -- carnivorous plants like the Venus flytrap are great for this situation. They can also cover figurines and trinkets. Think about using one as a centerpiece on a big coffee table with some large picture books that draw out the colors of the room. Your cloche will also look beautiful on a side table, or a little showpiece table to anchor the corner of a room.

Nestpert: Thomas McClain is a Minnesota landscape designer; visit his company, GROW, at www.GrowWithDesign.com

Learn More Decor Tricks at How to Decorate with Throws.

-- Paula Kashtan

Nov 01, 2010

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