Ruby Red Glass Tableware for the Holidays

Ruby Red Pitcher and Glassware Set

The holiday season is a wonderful time of year to add new vibrancy to your table with Ruby Red glass tableware. The production of red glass dates back to the Romans in the 4th century (AD) and is considered quite unique because it requires gold to produce the beautiful color. Although ruby red glass has always been popular, the process for producing this color was not “rediscovered” until the 17th century. Today, red glass production has been cut back by most companies due to the expense involved.

Red glass tableware is available in a variety of items including pitchers and glassware sets, serving dishes, salt cellars, serving platters, dinner plates and cake plates. Whether you are just starting your collection or adding to an existing set, ruby red glassware can be mixed and matched with other colors and patterns. Create a beautiful and dramatic presentation for any dessert by serving it on a ruby red cake plate or accent side dishes with a unique serving dish. By introducing new glassware into your tableware collection you can create a very unique holiday table.

When choosing new glassware for your home it is important to remember a few simple steps. First, check for “true colored” glass, this means that the color has been added directly into the glass with minerals and will not fade or chip off over time. Second, take care of your glass with proper storage and cleaning. Avoid chips and breaks by keeping your glass tableware collection stored on a level surface or carefully wrapped when stored in boxes. Avoid transferring any glassware from extremely hot to extremely cold temperatures (and vice versa) because this can lead to breaks as well. Finally, not all glassware is dishwasher or microwave safe so if you are unsure, ask.

Creating a beautiful holiday (and all year) tableware collection is a wonderful and unique way to create a beautiful display for your table. Ruby red glass is especially nice because it stands out on most tables and accents main courses, side dishes and desserts beautifully. LookInTheAttic & Company has a wide selection of ruby red (and other colors) glassware that will make your table beautiful this holiday season.

Glass Door Knob Sets For Modern Homes

Legacy Lever Glass Doorknob Set

Installing new doorknob sets in your home is a great way to update the look of any room without needing to redecorate or renovate the entire space. Glass doorknob sets come in a variety of styles and finishes so it is relatively easy to match your existing door hardware (such as hinges) with your new door knobs. Whether you are replacing existing sets or installing on new doors, glass doorknobs add a touch of elegance and beauty to any decorating style.

Doorknobs serve as a focal point of design not only because they are a prominent feature but also because they are one of the most frequently used items in the home. Choosing a high quality and beautiful door knob is important to ensure durability over time. When comparing doorknob sets, make sure to check for the materials used for construction, solid brass is best for strength and resistance to wear and tear over time. Brass also offers a wider selection of finishes including Polished Brass, Antique Brass, Brushed Nickel, Polished Chrome and Oil Rubbed Bronze. The glass knob is available in several patterns as well such as fluted glass, pumpkin, octagonal, circular and oval.

Installation is a simple process but there are a few measurements that are important to know before making your choice. Standard backsets are available in two sizes: 2 3/8 inches and 2 ¾ inches. Most interior doors use a 2 3/8 inch backset and exterior doors 2 ¾ inch. A backset is measured from the edge of the door to the center of the bore hole. Also check the thickness of your door because this can vary between manufacturers although most standard doors measure between 1 ½ inches to 1 ¾ inches. If you have a thinner door the rosette screws may need to be trimmed to accommodate it. Consult with a contractor or an interior design expert if you have questions regarding the installation of new knobs on older and new doors if you are unsure.

Glass door knob sets are a wonderful way to bring new vibrancy to any room and can be coordinated with other glass hardware such as cabinet knobs, curtain tie backs and coat hooks. LookInTheAttic & Company offers a wide selection and offers free design assistance and help. Remember that glass door knob sets fit well in vintage and modern homes and can provide a simple way of updating worn doors.

Georgian Architecture in the United States (1720-1840)

Georgian Roped Push Plate

The Georgian architectural style became popular during the late eighteenth through the mid nineteenth century and it replaced the Baroque architecture that had been popular up to that point. It is a general term for many common themes that were occurring around the world at that time and was named after the English monarchs George I-IV.

One of the most prominent features of Georgian architecture is its focus on proportion and balance. Math was used to determine correct size and placement of windows and other adornments on the building. Symmetry was very important when designing a Georgian style building and a Georgian addition to an earlier architectural style was considered extremely unattractive and flawed. Much of the inspiration for Georgian buildings was derived from Roman and Greek architecture and buildings were traditionally constructed of stone or brick over other materials.

In the United States the principles of Georgian style architecture were combined with neo-Palladian style architecture which created a “Federal Style”. It was used most frequently in middle and upper class homes. Several examples of the influence of Georgian architecture can still be seen today in the United States.

Georgian architecture was replaced slowly with a series of revival movements. Georgian architecture was itself revived and this new style was referred to as “Colonial revival”. Today Georgian style architecture is most frequently used for residential construction only and most commercial properties have abandoned this style completely.

LookInTheAttic & Company offers a wide variety of Georgian and Colonial style hardware and they offer free design assistance and help. Look for balanced and symmetrical patterns and solid brass construction to ensure high quality and durability. The Georgian architectural style is a wonderful theme for any home because it offers a wide variety of patterns that can be introduced inside the home and out.

Sterling Silver Astrological Charms and Necklaces

Astrological symbols are based on the principle that celestial phenomenon reflect or regulate human activity. An astrological sign pendant necklace is a wonderful and unique present for anyone because it is, according to astrology, a reflection of the traits and the characteristics they posses. There are twelve astrological signs in western cultures that include Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces. A person’s “sign” is determined by the time of year they are born.

Astrological sign jewelry is a fun and creative approach to gift giving. Each sign has a unique symbol that represents the dominant characteristics of wearer. These signs include The Ram (Aries), The Bull (Taurus), The Twins (Gemini), The Crab (Cancer), The Lion (Leo), The Virgin (Virgo), The Scales (Libra), The Scorpion (Scorpio), The Archer (Sagittarius), The Sea-Goat (Capricorn), The Water Carrier (Aquarius) and The Fish (Pisces). Sterling silver pendants offer not only a beautiful design but durability as well.

When choosing any sterling silver pendant it is important to remember a few simple steps. First, check for the 925 hallmarked to ensure high quality. Avoid pendants made with silver plating or other materials such as stainless steel or pewter. Second, prevent damage by storing your pendant carefully when it is not being worn – the high shine surface of sterling silver will show scratching when improperly stored over time. Although sterling silver can tarnish is can be easily polished to restore the original shine.

Look for a wonderful selection of sterling silver astrological pendants online at SilverandGold.com. Ask questions such as is this hallmarked 925 for sterling, is this item in stock, are optional chains available for this item. Sterling silver pendants and necklaces are a beautiful gift to yourself or anyone special in your life because they reflect unique personalities.

Fine Tableware for the Holidays

Grapes & Floral Pitcher (Emerald Green)

The holidays are a great time of year to review your fine tableware needs and update your collection with new and beautiful pieces that will add color and vibrancy to your dining room table. From serving bowls to cake plates, glass tableware is available in a wide selection of patterns and colors that will coordinate well with your existing pieces. Glass tableware is a wonderful choice not only because of its aesthetic qualities but because it will not warp or discolor over time like plastic and metal serving dishes.

When it comes to serving any food, presentation is important and that is why beautiful serving dishes are an important part of any tableware collection. From the salt and pepper shakers to the dessert stand, glass can be introduced to your table in a variety of forms. Glass comes many colors including ruby red, cobalt blue, emerald green, pink, aqua, clear, Vaseline, marigold and carnival and can be mixed and matched beautifully on one table. By using all glass tableware you can use different patterns (such as thistle or maple leaf) and create a unique presentation.

Whether you are just starting or adding to your existing tableware collection, it is important to remember a few simple things. First, glass is somewhat and it can break when it is not properly stored. Keep all glass on level shelved or carefully wrapped individually and packaged in boxes. Second, not all glass is microwave or dishwasher safe so it is important to ask if you are unsure. Look for true colored glass (natural minerals are added directly to the glass) to ensure the color will not fade or chip away over time. Glass tableware is a simple addition to any collection and can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your holiday (or any time of year) table.

Amethyst Glass Butter or Cheese Dish

LookInTheAttic & Company offers a large selection of fine glass tableware including cake plates, serving bowls and plates, pitchers, tumblers, salt and pepper shaker sets and butter dishes. Ask questions such as 1) is this item available in multiple sizes and 2) what colors are available? Remember that glass colors and patterns can be mixed and matched easily on the same table and create a beautiful display. Create a wonderful holiday table this year with a new fine tableware collection.

Cast Iron and Solid Brass H and HL Hinges

Cast Iron HL Hinge

Choosing the right hinge for your home improvement project is an important step. Depending on the application, not all hinges are interchangeable so it is vital to check the size, style and quantity of hinges previously used before selecting a replacement. H and HL hinges are typically used on lighter doors or when space available for hinges is limited. An HL hinge provides addition support when they are used for heavier doors.

The type of material used for hinge construction can make a real difference in quality so look for cast iron or solid brass to ensure durability and strength over time. H and HL hinges are available in flush mount and offset – a flush mount hinge is required when the cabinet door is flush with the frame and offset hinges are used when the door is on the frame itself (a standard offset is 3/8 inches). These hinges are surface mounted and will screw directly into the wood.

Cast Iron H Hinge (Offset)

The number of hinges required for a door depends on the size and weight of the door. Larger or heavier doors require more hinges to operate correctly and not fall off. Doors that are less than 40 inches tall and weigh less than forty pounds usually only require two hinges – this includes most standard cabinet doors. Consult with a contractor if you are unsure about the number if hinges you should use. When replacing older hinges make sure to follow a few simple steps. First, replace your hinges when they become loose or no longer open and close the door smoothly. Second, replace all the hinges on a single door at the same time to ensure proper functioning.

LookInTheAttic & Company offers a wide variety of H and HL hinges in cast iron and solid brass. Hinges are available in a variety of sizes from 3 inches to 7 inches and most are available in flush mount and offset

Solid Brass Towel Bars and Bathroom Accessories

Georgian Roped Towel Bar

Redecorating a bathroom can be a time consuming process and it is sometimes easy to overlook the basic hardware in this room. Solid brass towel bars and other bathroom accessories are a great choice not only because of the inherent durability and strength brass provides but the elegant patterns that can be easily incorporated into any decorating scheme. Solid brass hardware is available in a variety of finishes and designs ranging from traditional roped patters to ornate fleur de lis.

Towel bars are an important aspect of any bathroom and a focal point of your design (especially in guest bathrooms where towels are frequently displayed). A solid brass towel bar with an elegant pattern can add a little extra detail to your bathrooms without overpowering your design. Towel bars come in single, double and triple configurations and are available in several sizes (usually 18, 24 and 30 inches although other sizes may be available).

Solid Brass Classic Towel Ring

When deciding on new bathroom hardware remember that attention to small details can create a common theme throughout your entire room. Choose coordinating robe hooks, soap dishes, grab bars, towel rings, shelves and hinges to complete the look. By using the same finish that is on your faucets you can tie the look together even further. Solid brass doorknob sets and lighting fixtures are also available and in similar patterns as well. The bathroom may be one of the smaller rooms in your home but there are a lot of ways to make it beautiful and unique.

LookInTheAttic & Company offers a wide selection of solid brass towel bars and other bath hardware. Ask questions if you are unsure about a particular item and see if entire sets are available. Remember that by choosing a common pattern you will be able to coordinate the room easily.

Arts & Crafts Architectural Style – Elements of Simplicity in Design

Arts & Crafts Style Drawer Pull

The Arts & Crafts architectural movement (sometimes referred to as Craftsman or Mission) is based on the principle of using simple forms and natural materials. It was pioneered in the 1880’s by several English designers and was used in everything from exterior architectural forms to interior decorating. The Arts & Crafts movements was in some ways a reaction to the industrialization that was occurring in the United States at that time and a desire to maintain the skilled craftsman while optimizing the use of a machine for dull and repetitive tasks.

Arts & Crafts style homes have several trademark features that include rustic exteriors and elongated vertical patterns. Some of these designs have intentionally rough finishes or edges to feel more rustic and handmade. This movement was especially popular in America when it came to reinventing the middle class home (making beautiful homes that were also affordable). This style was reflected in everything from the furniture to the hardware in the home. Arts & Crafts style home hardware is typically found in cast or forged iron and features very simple, usually square or rectangular, patterns.

Arts & Crafts Doorbell

Creating an arts & crafts style theme in your home is relatively simple and can be introduced in a variety of ways. Your front door can let visitors know what to expect inside with a beautiful Arts & Crafts style doorbell and matching deadbolt. Use a rustic style entryway set and doorknocker to complete the look. Replace older and worn lighting with mission style lights and replace your switch plates with coordinating patterns to create a common theme. Arts & craft style cabinet knobs and pulls are available in several patterns and you do not need to use the same design in every room to have a beautiful theme throughout your house. Consult with an interior decorator or other design expert for suggestions on how to further enhance the arts and crafts theme.

When using the Arts & Crafts movement you can be sure you are creating a unique and beautiful design for your home. Arts & Crafts style hardware is a simple and elegant addition that will accent without overpowering the rooms in your house. LookInTheAttic & Company offers a wide variety of Arts & Crafts style hardware and they offer free design assistance and help.

Mechanical Turn Doorbells – Elegant For Victorian and Modern Homes

Eastlake Mechanical Turn Doorbell

Solid brass mechanical turn doorbells are a unique and beautiful addition to any front entryway system. Before the invention of the electric doorbell, a turn knob was used to operate the bell inside. These doorbells ranged from simple patterns to ornate Eastlake designs. Because these bells are constructed from solid brass they are extremely durable and available in a variety of finishes to match your existing door hardware.

Mechanical turn doorbells were extremely popular in the United States during the 1800’s. Depending on the style some utilized a turning knob while others have a lever operation to trigger the bell and alert homeowners they had a guest. Doorbells are used as an alternative to door knockers which might not be as easily heard inside the home.

Solid brass mechanical turn doorbells are a wonderful way to add extra detail to the exterior of your home and add something extremely unique to surprise your visitors. Create a complete entryway set by using similar patterns and finishes for doorknobs, knockers, kick plates and hinges. Installation of a mechanical turn doorbell is relatively simple usually requiring surface mounting screws and a shaft for the turn mechanism to connect with the interior doorbell. Consult with a design expert or contactor if you need additional assistance or have specific installation questions. Remember that by using a common design for your exterior and interior home hardware you can easily create a common theme throughout your entire house.

LookInTheAttic & Company offers a selection of mechanical turn doorbells for the home and they offer free design assistance and help as well. Search for solid brass construction to ensure durability over time and be sure to ask questions. The front door is the focal point of the exterior of your home so be sure to choose high quality materials and pay attention to small details to create a beautiful entryway system.

Octagonal Glass Cabinet Knobs and Crystal Doorknobs – Elegance and Contemporary Design

Old Town Glass Cabinet Knob (Polished Brass Finish)

Using glass door and cabinet knobs throughout your home is an unexpected and wonderful addition to any décor. Glass provides an extra touch of detail on otherwise bland household furniture and doors while providing an excellent opportunity to create a common theme to tie your home hardware together. Although glass knobs are available in a wide variety of shapes, octagonal glass cabinet knobs offer a simple design that suits both old and new homes.
When replacing your older cabinet knobs or doorknob sets, try using glass instead of metal knobs to create more interest in this area of your design. The knobs on your cabinets and doors are some of the most frequently used items in your home and they are often overlooked during a renovation or remodeling projects. By simply replacing older and worn hardware you can dramatically change the appearance of any room or piece of furniture without needing to spend a lot of money or time on the project. Most cabinet knobs are easily replaced with a simple bolt and nut installation. A glass doorknob set creates a beautiful focal point for any door and can transform the most mundane door into an important element in your overall decorating scheme.

Octagonal glass door and cabinet knobs are available in a wide variety of sizes and the bases are usually offered in several finishes. Polished brass and chrome are popular choices in bathrooms and kitchens to coordinate with current home hardware. Oil Rubbed Bronze, Satin Nickel and Antique Brass are all great choices for furniture, doors, and other cabinets with existing hardware as well. Different rooms may require different finishes but by using the same octagonal shape glass throughout your house the look will tie itself together beautifully. The traditional octagonal shape is easy to use in other areas of your home as well including entryway hardware, bathroom hardware and lighting.

Providence Glass Doorknob Set (Oil Rubbed Bronze Finish)

These door and cabinet knobs are available online through LookInTheAttic & Company and they offer free design assistance and help. Look for glass (not acrylic or plastic) knobs to ensure high quality and a beautiful design. Solid brass bases offer higher durability as well and can be used to match your existing hardware.