Light Effects: Layered and Clustered

When I first saw this photo of a Nobis Hotel lounge area,  I was struck by the dramatic effect the cluster of hanging lights created.  By hanging different types and sizes of globe fixtures at various heights, the designers created a whimsical setting for an otherwise formal sitting area.  I'd sip a sophisticated cocktail under that canopy all day long [figure of speech].

Whether inside or out,  lights can take on a major role in setting the tone anywhere they're featured.   Take a look at how the spaces below benefited by the clustering effect:

image from : Better Living From Design

Image from: Style Me Pretty

Above image: Bocci

Above image: MTeriors

Above image:  Martha Stewart

Above image:  Apartment Therapy

Elle Decor's image shows off the shadowy effects hanging lights create.

Above image: Loving Living Small

To give a space dimension, plenty of light and lots of cool shadows try hanging your lights in clusters.

Hope you enjoyed the light show...

Spirit Lifter By Guest Blogger Brooke Richard

I'm pleased to introduce Cocoon's first guest blogger, Brooke Richard of Orange Street Design Studio.  Her post on this spirit lifter lamp is a perfect example of why I love working with her.  She has an amazing eye for new and upcoming designs.  Take a look and a read:

I'm very delighted to be a guest contributor for Cocoon's blog. This week I discovered a design by Science & Sons worthy of a first post. The sailcloth Lift Lamp will light up both your home and spirit. For your sensible side, it functions as a beautiful pendant light. And for the dreamer in you, it can transform into a high flying kite.

Enjoy!

Brooke

Thank you, Brooke!!

Light Meets Sofa

Every time I see one of Ochre's chandeliers, its delicate detailing and opulent presence strike me.  I can't help but imagine one of these timeless beauties in my home some day.  Hence, Light Meets Sofa.  I picked some of my favorite ones and paired them with sofas that complement but don't demand the light.  Take a look.

Modern sofa available at Holly Hunt.

Chelsea wing settee from Williams and Sonoma Home.

The Astair sofa from Magni Home Collection.

Heavy Metal-Bronze

Today's post is the third in a series exploring how to incorporate metals, other than stainless steel, into your space with accessories, textiles and lighting.  Take a look at some bronze examples and check out the second Heavy Metal post on copper and the first Heavy Metal post on gold.

The contrasting bronze and chocolate damask pattern in the above wallpaper is both modern and retro.

Vintage bronze coffee table by Warren Platner for Knoll.

Finished in bold bronze on the outside and gold in the inside the Cyclone pendant has a hypnotic effect.

Textured bronze planters from Burke Decor look great grouped or alone.

Cast metal letters in bronze from Restoration Hardware are great accessories for walls or shelves.

My favorite.  Elena Colombo's nest of cast bronze branches.  A fire feature like no other.

I love the delicate and shapely forms of Eva Zeisel's bronze candlesticks.  I have just the right place for them....

Try adding some copper to your space.

Don't forget to check out Cocoon on Facebook and let me know what your favorite metal is.

Heavy Metal-Copper

Today's post is the second  in a series exploring how to incorporate metals, other than stainless steel,  into your space with accessories, textiles and lighting.  Take a look at some copper examples and check out the first Heavy Metal post.

Above,  Tom Dixon's copper shade pendants add sophistication and glamour to any space.  Use alone or grouped.

Jocelyn Warner's wallpaper's psychedelic pattern can add excitement and allure to an interior.

Owl tree pillow by Michele Varain combines linen and metalic threads to create a whimsical scene.

Copper conveys warmth as well as feelings of nostalgia.  The Redsmith chair, above,  does all that and more...

Try adding a little copper to your space.