Why Do We Celebrate Valentine’s Day

Love wins lines Poster in interior

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and this is one of those days that people love or hate, probably. Whatever your relationship status may be, many still celebrate this day. See for yourself. Try going to restaurants and malls on the 14th of February and see how jam-packed they are. Of course, the pandemic may restrict some of the movements, thus preventing the formation of crowded areas. However, Valentine’s Day is still worth celebrating, whatever the situation is. Here are some of the reasons that you might find interesting and informative. 

A brief history of Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is celebrated in both Christian and Roman traditions. We heard about St. Valentine’s story of spreading caring and care to others. It was said that Valentine performed forbidden marriages for young couples in Rome. Eventually, he was executed because of his practice.  

It was also believed that Valentine’s Day is the Christian counterpart of the pagan celebration of Lupercalia. This festival is dedicated to the fertility of Roman women and crops, along with a matchmaking event. 

There’s always a reason to celebrate

It’s not always that Valentine’s Day is for romantic couples only. Ask around, and you will learn that there are many instances when people go out with their friends. Dressing up, eating sumptuous meals, drinking delicious wine, and having amusing conversations can always be done with your buddies. 

Staying at home chillin’

It’s not always conclusive that you have to go out and spend lots of money on restaurants, hotels, and others. You can also celebrate Valentine’s Day at home. Order from your favorite restaurant and bring out the wine. Turn on your television for some romantic movie. If your friends can’t make it because of their scheduled dates, then there’s no shame in celebrating Valentine’s Day alone. Indulge yourself in your favorite food and drink, as this may be the only day you can open that bottle of wine.

Treat yourself to something special

Valentine’s Day is a perfect excuse to treat yourself. Whether you are thinking of buying yourself a designer bag or a day in the spa, the day will be the right day to spend a little for yourself. 

A date with your loved one

If you have a great partner, show how you appreciate them. Having fun and a healthy relationship is excellent. Valentine’s Day is the right day to reciprocate them. Treat your partner by buying a gift that you will love. You may also go to your favorite restaurant for dinner. 

Go out and take a break

Ask your partner to spend the day with you for a romantic getaway. If you are single, round up your friends and go for a well-deserved break on the beach or in a hotel. 

Ideal Bedroom Colors To Sleep Better

Blue Elegance Art wall

Many people experience insomnia for various reasons. One of the main reasons is the bedroom’s appearance, which is influenced by different factors. The bedroom’s color dramatically affects the mood and contributes to the sleepless nights of many individuals. The right coloring with paint, posters, wallpaper and furnishings can help solve this problem. Here are some recommendations and ideas to set the mood in the bedroom for a longer and deeper sleep. 

Ideal bedroom colors

There are ways to help an individual have a deep sleep. Design the interior, particularly the colors. Choosing the right bedroom color can help people have a good sleep pattern. Cool colors such as blue and green create a calming and relaxing room. The addition of colors can be done in different ways. One of the most popular is the addition of posters or personalized prints. Wallpaper, tapestries, murals, and other wall coverings also help add colors and set the bedroom’s atmosphere. 

Relationship between sleep and colors

Colors are proven to have effects on the behavior of an individual. Studies have been continuously conducted to look for the relationship between colors and sleep. 

Cool colors, like blue, help people enjoy longer sleep compared to others in a room with different colors. Hues are associated with calmness and can relieve lower blood pressure and heart rate. People staying in a room with shades of blue can sleep for an average of 7 hours and 52 minutes. The impressive effect is why homeowners prefer posters of water, seas, sky, and beaches

The reason why the color blue promotes good sleep is because of receptor cells in the retina. Ganglions in the eye are responsible for sending information directly to the brain. 

If blue does not suit your taste, you can still use other colors and hues to promote deep sleep. Neutral colors like gray and silver are also known to promote good sleeping habits. In addition, pale yellow can have the same effects as that neutral colors. 

Other colors may also contribute to sleeping patterns, yet the average hours of sleep are shorter than those of people in a bedroom with shades of blue. Yellow, for instance, promotes sleep for around 7 hours and 40 minutes, green for 7 hours and 36 minutes, orange for 7 hours and 28 minutes, purple for 5 hours and 56 minutes, gray for 6 hours and 12 minutes, and brown for 6 hours and 5 minutes. 

Wall decor and sleep

The display of trendy art and personalized posters is one of the easiest and fastest ways to set the mood and atmosphere of the bedroom. The designs and images featured in posters come in a wide variety. They also come in colors that can help promote sleep. With the creation of wall art in the bedroom that is dominated by hues of blue, individuals will be able to have a good sleeping pattern. 

Check out www.artdesign.ph for posters with colors that will help you create the right ambiance in the bedroom. We have designs that will suit your taste. You can request customized prints to give your wall a more personal touch. 

Interesting Ways To Personalize The Office

Chicago poster in interior

We spend a lot of time in the office. As employees, we are expected to be productive and be our best. As such, the office environment should be inspiring and appealing to help us show and do our best while at work. Transforming the overall appearance of the office will help the workers accomplish their daily tasks. Though it is not easy,  the good news is there are ways that will help you achieve the desired appearance. 

The goal of office decorating is not to exaggerate it with decorative and personal items. You may also want to keep the office dedicated to work and professional while also making it look comfortable just like your home.

Make the office look professional 

Keep it practical and professional by not exaggerating the decors and personal items. Add inspiring artwork or motivational posters. Do not display your personal photos such as the photo of your beach escapade. 

Make it clean and functional 

Avoid clutter in the office. Keep your desk surface and your floor space clear of clutter, papers, and books. Be sure that the office functions well whether you are sitting or standing. Try to set the office up so that it is easy for others to work also. 

Maintain a healthy environment                                                               

One way to make a healthy office environment is to add elements of nature such as plants, flowers, and water. These not only add beauty to your space but also evokes health benefits. The natural colors are likewise soothing that help in your concentration as well as being productive with your respective tasks. Pothos, aloe, and jade plants are all great options as they remove toxins from the air and are easy to manage. 

Keep it look and feel comfortable

In addition to good office appliances and equipment, you should also consider making everything comfortable and cozy. But be sure not to overdo it to the point that the workers tend to sleep on their work. That would be bad news for the company and for the employees too. Have a comfortable back or butt pillow or throw hanging around to help you become comfortable all day. In this way, you could also bring colors to your office without any difficulty. 

Use the proper lighting

Leave the tradition behind and be innovative when it comes to lighting. Add desk lamps with softer lighting so that you can see your work properly.

Add some art

The addition of some art is perfect to complete the wall design of the office. Sometimes wall art is neglected and not given some attention. Add different themes that will blend with the interior design of the office. It is also recommended to add motivational posters to inspire the workers and also to complete their day. 

Display photos for a nostalgic atmosphere

Yes, you can add photos of your family or pet. But remember that it is the office and you should limit personal items being displayed. Choose the appropriate photos and limit them to 1 to 3 only. 

Add accessories

Add items that are functional but also personalized to your own style and taste. Examples are your hip mug or Mason jars to hold your pens and pencils, an attractive bowl for your paper clips, an antique box for business cards, and others.

Dog Decorating Ideas For Your Home

My pet in general suit poster

If you love dogs then it is the right time to give your home a boost with dog-inspired decoration. Incorporating your fur babies into your decor is one of the fun and exciting ways to show your love and give your home a fantastic appearance. Whether adding dog figurines or the best photo of your pet, these decors can easily level up your home’s interior. 

Pawsome photos

If you are like any other dog parent, most likely, you have a collection of photos of your fur baby. Why keep them in your album or in your mobile devices when you can have them displayed. Choose your favorite images, such as a dog in a new bandana walking around the neighborhood, or that day at the beach. If you cannot choose from what you have, then it’s time to practice your photography skills and start shooting some professional-grade photos. 

Create a captivating wall art

This can be anything, from a single photo to a photo collage. The idea is to transform a wall into an eye-catching spot in your room. If you are unsure how to create it, you can check online for design ideas. Dog wall art may serve as a fun and exciting conversation starter with your guests. Create wall art in the living room, family room, or study room. 

DIY Dog Decor 

Now, this is something that will bring out the best in your creativity. The truth is that there are tons of ideas to use when it comes to DIY projects, and you will surely be overwhelmed by them. Try some of them and you will surely love them! Here are some examples.

  • Dog cushion – just like us, our dogs also love to have a comfortable spot to rest. You can make your own cushion by sewing fabric around an old bed pillow. After creating one, you can place it on their favorite spot.
  • All-in-one hanger – need an organizer for your dog’s walking supplies? Get a wooden board, smoothen them, paint if you want, and add hooks to hold your pet’s collar and leash.
  • Toy chest – buy a wooden crate that is big enough for your dog’s toys and other belongings. Paint it in a color that matches your home’s decor so that it will not be an eyesore in your home.

Spruce up your office

Whether you are working at home or on-site, a little inspiration will not hurt. There are a lot of items you can display, such as a personalized dog poster, mugs, doormats, paperweight, or a clock. 

Decorate your walls

There are many wall coverings available in the market these days. Dog wallpaper is one of the strong elements that can add style to your home. Designs may also vary that can enhance the theme of your interior. There are likewise cartoonish designs that can be displayed in the kids’ room. 

Wooden dog signs

Wooden dog signs add a rustic twist to any part of your home. Add them to the kitchen, living room, dining room, bathroom, and any other popular location. 

Try These Amazing Watercolor Techniques

Philippine map watercolor poster by Local Artist Siara Gogh

Are you still wondering why many people are so engrossed with watercolor paintings? Then you just have to look at some of them to see how awesome they are. This painting may be intimidating for some, especially for beginners, but there are many techniques that you can try to see and experience the beauty and versatility of watercolor painting. Read on to learn more about these techniques and you can try some of them and have them displayed in your rooms.

Watercolor washes

Laying watercolor wash can be done on a wet surface or a dry one. Although mistakes can be committed, the secret is not to try fixing them. Just let them be since adding another layer once the original stroke has dried is more obvious. Washes are the backbone of watercolor painting. The wash can be differentiated by the size and swipe of the brush. Washes are used to fill in large background areas, or to create underlying forms that will have more detail and deeper tones. 

Wet-In-Wet painting

This is one of the basic techniques in watercolor painting. You may not realize it, but you have probably done this technique before. Start by brushing water onto the paper. Dip the brush in paint and spread it over the water wash. As such, the paint will weather and diffuse.

Underpainting

This technique is a monochrome wash that is used for the first layer of the painting. Add layers of transparent washes over the underpainting and these will provide a realistic and luminous effect. 

Gradients and color blending

In a simple watercolor wash, only a single color is used. However, depth can be added by using more hues in a gradient, You can start adding fresh watercolor to a wet paint surface. The second color can have a more intense version of the same hue of a different hue. With a wet surface, the colors will blend slightly and create a natural gradient in the tones. 

Layering watercolors

Dimensions can be created by adding layers of the watercolor once the color of the paint has dried. Be sure that the paper is also dried, or else the colors will unwantedly blend together and get messy. Do not add much water to the second color since this can dampen the initial color, thus blending the colors. 

Dry brush

This requires little paint and water to create a scratchy brushstroke. This can be used for an entire painting but is still perfect for creating texture. Mix your pigment, making sure that the paint mixture is not that wet. Dip the dry brush into the paint and remove excess moisture. Brush lightly across the surface and this can highlight the texture of the paper. 

Watercolor blooms

Blooms can be created when very wet paint spreads on a drier area of a painting. When you apply wet paint on a damp wash, the liquid forces the original pigment out and creates irregularly shaped splotches. Lay down a colorful wet wash and let it dry a little. Load the brush with water and touch it lightly to the paper. Blooms are created by drops of water. 

Lines, Hatching, and Crosshatching

Lines of any size and shape can be painted with the use of watercolor. Place lines beside each other or layer them perpendicular to each other for a hatching or cross-hatching effect. For clean lines, you can use a small, pointed brush and load it with pigment with the use of a dash of water. Paint a line on the paper and the shade can be determined by the amount of water used. 

Sponge painting

A textured sponge is also an unimportant tool to paint foliage on trees or sand on a beach. All you need to do is to dip it into the pigment and press it on the paper. 

White wall art wall

White wall art wall

If you want to create a light and breezy atmosphere in your home, this gallery wall with beach prints is perfect!

Japanese Restaurant Interior

Japanese cuisine themed ideas banner

Sushi anyone? Many people have loved this dish and there is something into it that makes it comforting and pleasurable. A Japanese restaurant is never complete without sushi and other signature dishes. However, there is more to a Japanese restaurant than just the food. In addition to the menu and service, the overall appearance and ambiance of the Japanese restaurant are important. All of these factors complete the Japanese restaurant experience that will take you to the Far East with a snap of the finger. Planning to start your own Japanese restaurant business? Here are some interesting ideas that will help you with your brand.

See and feel the ambiance

The culture and tradition of the Japanese have greatly influenced the aesthetics and architecture of Japanese homes and restaurants. By principle, the Japanese-styled interior revolves around uncluttered and clean living, sticking to order, balance, love for natural beauty, and ancient costumes. 

If you have watched Japanese tea ceremonies and other traditions, you will fully understand and appreciate the interior of every Japanese home and restaurant. Japanese restaurants have that relaxing touch that will make you enjoy your food more. 

Starting the Japanese restaurant business

Starting a Japanese restaurant is quite challenging but rewarding. Think about the different factors that need to be considered and incorporated to be successful in the business. Examples are the location, market for Japanese cuisine, and available resources, especially the budget. Be sure that you have devised a marketing and business plan. You will also need to hire professional staff members, such as experienced Japanese food and sushi chefs, interior designers or decorators, and servers. 

Characteristics of a Japanese restaurant

Achieving an authentic Japanese restaurant is not that hard, especially if you are a fan of Japanese food and culture. Some elements distinguish a Japanese restaurant from other Asian restaurants. In terms of the interior appearance, Japanese culture has respect and love for nature. As such, the interior appearance should reflect this passion. Bring nature in with traditional plants such as bamboo and bonsai. Palm and orchids work well with traditional plants. The important thing is that you make the restaurant look natural, green, and simple. You can enhance the look with wooden elements around the restaurant. 

In addition to plants, water is another important element that will boost the Japanese appearance of your restaurant. The sound of water has a calming effect and can evoke a tranquil room environment. 

Adding shoji adds to the beauty of the interior. Shoji is a Japanese screen that slides back and forth. This is used as a replacement for doors to save up space and likewise allow natural light in the room. The screen is usually made up of fine translucent paper found inside a wooden grid. 

The entry or “genkan” is also an important concept of Japanese culture. Guests are greeted in this area while shoes are taken off and replaced with indoor slippers. Add shelves in the entryway to store the shoes and remember that this should look simple and made up of wooden elements. It should be uncluttered and the furniture pieces are mostly low to the ground. In many instances, floor cushions are used instead of furniture pieces. 

Japanese restaurant interior designs also have a minimalist appearance. Remember that the restaurant should always be clean, uncluttered, and simple. Use culture-inspired furniture pieces, made up of wood, clean-lined and modern. When it comes to lighting, it is recommended to have angular and modern lighting. These help in imitating Japanese-styled lanterns.

Cool Restaurant, Happy Customers

Art Wall 187

Today, people have become more adventurous when it comes to choosing restaurants. While others may still be traditional, others are searching for something extraordinary in addition to the menu and services. One of the reasons why restaurants have loyal customers is due to the ambiance and experience they offer. The food revolution has reanimated the restaurant experience as people search for new spots for food and aesthetics. 

If asked, what do you look for in a restaurant? Probably, the first answer that we will hear is the menu. Others go for self-reward, to relax, to have a good conversation, to experience something new, and be delighted with the sights, sounds, and smells inside the restaurant. 

A restaurant can be considered to be successful if the diner translates them into a memorable, aesthetically pleasing experience. Restaurants with appealing interiors make their customers happy and gain their loyalty. 

Simple restaurant interior design for new owners

Starting up your own restaurant business is quite exciting, and challenging. Many things need to be considered, researched, experimented with, and presented. From the menu that will be prepared to the interior design, starting up a restaurant need to be wholistic. 

Entrepreneurs have different mindsets when it comes to starting their businesses. Some would want to gamble and invest a large sum of money, while others may not be risk-takers. The restaurant interior design greatly depends on the theme. There are various ideas to create a welcoming interior without going bankrupt before the business even starts. 

For instance, do away with tablecloths as they may be costly and are only common at weddings, banquets, and other formal events. Having linens on the tables may likewise send a wrong message to diners for being an expensive restaurant. You may also opt to create your menu instead of having them printed and laminated. Buy simple menu jackets and print the menu yourself. Be creative and imaginative with the wall design you are going to use. For instance, instead of using expensive wall art, you may pick the right stencil design and design the wall with your family. 

Modern restaurant interior design that you will love

Many people love going to restaurants because of the ambiance. There are two types of restaurants, one that serves food during the day and the other one that serves at night. Those that serve food during the day are more like fast food and quick snacks, while those which serve food during the evening offer a wide range of food and drink wherein diners tend to stay longer and become more comfortable. 

The entryway of a modern restaurant must be welcoming. This is also a place where diners can wait while their table is being prepared. The dining area is the most important part of the restaurant and it is a must that they look impressive. The design can be anything, and the most important thing is that the tables should be given enough space between them to provide privacy to the customers. Lighting is also important as it set the mood in addition to room color. The restroom should also be well designed so that guests will feel comfortable when they use it. 

A Brief History of Photography

Since the advent of photography, it has affected the way of life and how people see the world. It has the ability to capture the moments, even the briefest event in one’s life. Photographs can also represent society and influence others to a change that can be beneficial or detrimental. Read on to learn more about photography, its history, and how it is shaped these days. 

In all the technology that we know, photography is one that has a brief history but has the most impact in the world that we know today. From a plain box that took blurry photos, we now have DSLRs and smartphones. We never expected that photography will be this fantastic. The story of photography is not that long and in fact, quite fascinating. 

The term “photography” is attributed to Sir John Herschel in 1839. Although the term was coined in the 19th century, the basic concept has been around since the 5th century BC. It was in the 11th century that an Iraqi scientist developed the camera obscura in which the art was born. Although this crude technology did not record images, it projected the onto a surface. The images were also upside down. The first camera obscura used a pinhole in a tent to project an image from outside the tent to the darkened area. In the 17th century, camera obscura further improved and became more portable because of its smaller size. Basic lenses were also introduced during this time as such focusing of images has improved.

It was in the late 1930s when Joseph Nicephore Niepce of France, used a portable camera obscura to expose a pewter plate coated with bitumen to light. Simultaneously, daguerreotypes, emulsion plates, and wet plates were developed. 

In those days, photography can only be afforded by professionals and the wealthy. This was changed by George Eastman when he started the company Kodak in the 1880s. He developed a flexible roll film that did not require changing the solid plates. As such, he was able to develop a self-contained box camera that can hold 100 film exposures. However, the camera does not have any focusing adjustment since it had only a small single lens.

In the 1930s, photographers used small 35mm cameras to capture images. This technology was used in the two great wars and captured images of soldiers during and after the battles. While the 35mm is gaining popularity, Polaroid introduced the Model 95 which used a process to develop film inside the camera. Although this camera is expensive, it captured the attention of the public because of its convenience and magic, so to say. However, Polaroid stopped manufacturing their film in 2008, and no one was ever successful in copying their technology. 

Years passed and cameras continuously evolved according to the needs of the consumers. Cameras became more available to the public and made more compact. Shooting images can be controlled in which the cameras can calculate speed, aperture, and focus. Amazingly, this technology has made the lives of photographers and other users more convenient as they can focus more on the composition. 

In the digital age, images can be stored electronically. Films are no longer needed with the cameras developed by various companies, such as Canon, Nikon, Pentax, and others. 

Seascape or Mountainscape – Your Choice

Limestone and Crystal Seas poster

If you are planning for a getaway this summer, then there may be a lot on your list. You do not even have to leave the country for the vacation you deserve. Throughout the year, we have been hectic with our schedules. From the deadlines that we need to beat at work, to the errands we have to accomplish at home. Our plates may sometimes be overflowing with things to do that we tend to forget to take a break to destress and recharge ourselves. 

In the Philippines, there are a lot of travel destinations that can meet our needs. You can choose from a wide range of places. Depending on your budget and availability, there is always the right vacation spot for you. For many of us, there are only two types of places to go. It’s either the mountains for some adventure camping or the beach for a cool and refreshing break. Whatever the choice is, the goal is to go on a furlough. 

Going on mountain climbing is not for the faint of heart. Depending on the mountain that you would like to try, it takes a lot more than just the desire and love for nature. We know that getting close to nature is one of the keys to rejuvenating. However, you also need the strength and stamina to move up and reach the summit. If you have done this trip when you were at the right age, then you must have remembered the very first time you tried this activity.

Starting from the foot of the mountain, you will see yourself about to take on some of nature’s challenges. You will walk for some kilometers with gears that weigh almost the same as you. This is why it is highly recommended to pack lightly. Take only the things that you need. The most important stuff to have are water and food. Believe us when we say that you will need them a lot on this trip. 

Traversing the hiking path is fun and exciting. You will have the opportunity to breathe pure and clean air along with the sight of luscious greens. Walking up the path will also give you the chance to meet other hikers. This trip will also make you feel how to be on top of the clouds and see the world from another angle. 

Seeing the mountains and being part of it is a new kind of adventure. The fun and excitement are at a different levels. The adrenaline rush is unexplainable. Some of the best mountains to climb in the Philippines are Mt. Halcon, Mt. Pinatubo, Mt. Pulag, and Mt. Apo. 

On the other hand, if mountain climbing is not your thing, then you may choose to go to the seas and beaches. Having 7,100 islands, the country is filled with beach resorts and diving sites. The sophisticated details, such as underwater rivers and cave formations add an element of exotic adventure to your vacation. The dry season or summer is considered to be the best time to visit these paradises. Therefore, start planning your vacation between November to April. 

All beaches in the country are captivating. Along with breezes and soft sand, they have something remarkable to offer that cannot be seen in other countries. They are simply stunning and you can feast your eyes on caves, corals, and marine life. 

So, choosing between the two may be difficult at times. Why suffer when you can have both of the best worlds. With the different modes of transportation we have, reaching your chosen destinations will not be a problem. Only by going to these places, you will truly say that the Philippines is rich in beautiful places and biodiversity.