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Inlay Makes Rooms a Cut Above
Furniture and accessories inlaid with shells, faux bone or pearl give rooms an elevated artistic sense and showstopping style
We are the mother and daughter behind the blog Design Chic (www.mydesignchic.com).
We are the mother and daughter behind the blog Design Chic (www.mydesignchic.com).... More »
Who says furniture can't double as art? Not every piece in a room can be the star of the show, sure, but incorporating a few truly fabulous focal points is a necessity.
For a departure from regular wood, we are huge fans of inlay. Inlay is created with a base object, normally made of some sort of wood, and pieces of contrasting materials that are inserted into depressions in it. Bone is a popular choice to create showstopping patterns and contrast, but these days, it's easy to get the look without the animal rights issues. Wood veneers, shells, mother-of-pearl or even faux painting are great choices. Take a look at a few of our favorite ways to incorporate inlay into your decor.
For a departure from regular wood, we are huge fans of inlay. Inlay is created with a base object, normally made of some sort of wood, and pieces of contrasting materials that are inserted into depressions in it. Bone is a popular choice to create showstopping patterns and contrast, but these days, it's easy to get the look without the animal rights issues. Wood veneers, shells, mother-of-pearl or even faux painting are great choices. Take a look at a few of our favorite ways to incorporate inlay into your decor.
by betsy burnham
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A gorgeous chest like this instantly transforms a room. The color, texture and pattern of the inlay turn it into a work of art.
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For a touch of inlay without committing to a large piece, a mirror or frame over a chest is a sophisticated touch. A grouping of bone inlay frames is also a subtle and cost-effective way to incorporate this trend.
Because of the general lack of accessorizing space in a bathroom, it can be difficult to give that room a personality all its own. Bone inlay turns a necessity — the mirror — into a focal point.
by Candelabra
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We're always looking for ways to give a formal dining room an injection of youth. Inlaid chairs add a splash of the unexpected while maintaining an air of elegance.
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| Perhaps you like the contrast of the materials of bone inlay but aren't thrilled about the overwhelming pattern that often accompanies it. A stunning piece like this dining table is a great solution. |
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by MJ Lanphier
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| These days, the look of bone inlay is available without any harm to animals; a skilled craftsperson can make paint look exactly like the real thing. |
Speaking of faux ... faux bone is getting easier and easier to find.
by Atypical Type A
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Another great alternative to bone is mother-of-pearl. The look of mother-of-pearl pieces like this mirror is fabulous.
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Moroccan Style
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Moroccan Style
Comments
Charmean Neithart Interiors, LLC. HI Beth and Kristy. Thanks for featuring one of my pictures. I love that bedroom and those inlaid pieces are stunning in person. I use inlaid pieces on many of my projects as it adds that little touch of exotic that works just about everywhere. Great ideabook. Thanks again. Charmean Neithart 
13 months ago · Like
mmsalg Love inlay and guess what? we have so many makers who specialize in creating gorgeous, one-of-a-kind pieces...YAY!! http://custm.co/hz/60 
12 months ago · Like
Ideabook published on April 21, 2012.
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