tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29378172342310234292024-03-17T20:04:14.094-07:00Cup Half FullBeckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.comBlogger652125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-43117709761719797252015-07-03T11:11:00.000-07:002015-07-03T11:11:04.289-07:00Decorating a Beige Living Room<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Friday, and happy 3rd of July!! I am gearing up for a mellow weekend celebrating the 4th - BBQs, swimming, and fireworks of course - but before we get the long weekend started, I wanted to check in with you all!<br />
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As you know, my best friend just moved into a new apartment, and as she fills the new space with furniture, I'm here to help out and give advice where needed. I woke up this morning to a text from her saying that she doesn't love the couch she ordered, and everything just looks really blah and monotone (beige sofa, beige rug, beige walls).<br />
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PERFECT timing, because I'd started this post earlier in the week. Let's talk about what do do when your room is all one color... beige. I was going to title this "Decorating a Neutral Space", but let's call a spade a spade... everything in her apartment is beige, so it's now "Decorating a Beige Living Room". This is a big problem a lot of people run into but it's actually a really easy fix. Sometimes it's a case of the person being scared of color. Sometimes it's a case of them gravitating to the same color for everything they own.<br />
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Here's the room as it stands right now:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7NGBEM1C_pno2DpWYuEJ-MadqelW-049KhVYpkXrR5DTvtzXBMA-gsV4I2RXFXUXcKWgBUe4eM-PYfE5SAPYMhkBK11dLsYl5dP1GoTwjh0VkWLYivlaCgqTEFOOL67E8dq_1HQbaPmIn/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7NGBEM1C_pno2DpWYuEJ-MadqelW-049KhVYpkXrR5DTvtzXBMA-gsV4I2RXFXUXcKWgBUe4eM-PYfE5SAPYMhkBK11dLsYl5dP1GoTwjh0VkWLYivlaCgqTEFOOL67E8dq_1HQbaPmIn/s640/unnamed.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The good news is, the room has good bones. Not a bad "before"... am I right?! <br />
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The light in here is awesome... it gets really good exposure! I mean, a full wall of windows, and adjacent sliding doors to the deck. It doesn't get much better! And, the sofa looks SOOO good - it's the perfect size for this room. So excited to get started.<br />
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Ok so, with good light, open layout, lots of windows, and fabulous core pieces to build out from, it's just about adding some pizazz to all the beige (the walls, the rug, the sofa the console table). So let's talk about creating a calm, beautiful room based around neutrals, without it ending up being bland, beige, and boring.<br />
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<u>Step One: start with a color palette</u><br />
The key is to choose a color that you love. Look at your wardrobe - what do you wear? Do you look good in rosy colors? Does green make your eyes pop? Also what makes you happy - are you your best self near the ocean? In the woods? I happen to love blue, so that's the color I went with for this exercise, and based on Kira's pinned spaces (<a href="http://cuphalffull-sf.blogspot.com/2015/06/chicago-apartment-living-room.html" target="_blank">take a look at some of those here</a>) these rooms are a mix of preppy, beachy, and rustic, and I think blue lends itself well to that aesthetic. Once you've decided what colors you're into, then move onto step two...<br />
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<u>Step Two: Decide where to bring in color</u><br />
I'm a HUGE proponent of keeping the most expensive things you own neutral, so that you don't tire of them as easily, and so you can change out the accessories when you get bored. If you had a big green sofa, it sort of limits your color options. But if we do colorful accessories (rug, pillows, curtains, throw blankets, art) on a neutral sofa, it's easy, and quite a bit more cost-efficient to get new pillow covers than to replace the big ticket items).<br />
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<u>Step Three: Bring in live plants</u><br />
The emphasis here is on the word "live" - we are not talking silk flowers. A room feels dead without anything in it that is "living". For a space like a living room, I'd recommend one larger green plant and one smaller plant (I like orchids - they stay alive for several months, saving you money on cut flowers every week, and they're just so pretty, what's not to love?!) Trust me - a plant or two in a all beige space really brightens things up - even without changing anything else.<br />
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So with all that said, I put together four variations of the same room.<br />
<br />The things that stayed the same in each room:<br />
- The sofa (this is the exact sofa she bought)<br />
- The side table (which she already owns)<br />
- The art (similar to the gold leaf art she owns)<br />
- The wall color (a very pale grey). <br />
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Ok, let's get to it....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgssgsp3Dnz2gDs-sFIxapK60iJ-77FNfSqpTeTfYVOjGGeyPRIUI-fwA4kNNx6fXowBZwlMNvJpVz4ELJ5pRFXMwavJPir3QJ-LFuoYxc2CrIylTNcG5IoHIvLUTXxvlowtZN0ZqqQckV9/s1600/Kira+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgssgsp3Dnz2gDs-sFIxapK60iJ-77FNfSqpTeTfYVOjGGeyPRIUI-fwA4kNNx6fXowBZwlMNvJpVz4ELJ5pRFXMwavJPir3QJ-LFuoYxc2CrIylTNcG5IoHIvLUTXxvlowtZN0ZqqQckV9/s640/Kira+1.png" width="640" /></a>Room One: Here, we brought in color through the navy curtains, navy stools, and patterned blue and white throw pillows. The rest of the room is very neutral, with a natural fiber rug under the oatmeal colored sofa she bought. </div>
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The key to pairing a neutral rug next to a neutral sofa... they need to be different shades (one warmer and one cooler perhaps), and different tones (one lighter and one darker), and very different textures to ensure one doesn't visually run into the next.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX6uvfxhy4KiSPRZ3BxAkTYSQEUcVt7DloCdpZRH3LTpmwBV7XlKBdgE1P32FZyOE0Wqkk3oHOshP7NZRZ_E3BPGNwblU-teOWQRKV5SyqKEisfc5HUaZxk8VuOtTrDWqsrGuU_NMO-R9C/s1600/Kira+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX6uvfxhy4KiSPRZ3BxAkTYSQEUcVt7DloCdpZRH3LTpmwBV7XlKBdgE1P32FZyOE0Wqkk3oHOshP7NZRZ_E3BPGNwblU-teOWQRKV5SyqKEisfc5HUaZxk8VuOtTrDWqsrGuU_NMO-R9C/s640/Kira+2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Room Two: Here I kept the blue curtains, but swapped out the natural fiber rug for one with a bold pattern and color, and exchanged the navy stools for a ivory bench. </div>
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If I had to guess, I'd guess this would be Kira's least favorite of all the rooms, because there more color in it than there are neutral tones, but I thought it was still important to see it.</div>
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Room Three: This will be the hardest to get right in real life because it's the most neutral of all four options. <br />
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I swapped the navy curtains for white, brought back the natural fiber rug, which means that the stools and pillows are the only source of color here. In real life, I think I'd recommend moving the gold leaf art to another room, and bringing in art with more color because the risk is still there of ending up with a borderline drab room. <br />
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BUT, maybe not... I'd just have to see it as it came together........<br />
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Room number four - this is really a combination of rooms two and three. Here, I kept the white curtains, and brought back the blue rug. <br />
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I like this one, but something about it seems a bit off - like it's bottom heavy. Having everything at eye level so neutral, and then the dark rug, I think the walls need something with substance as well. Maybe even having art in a black frame, or a really large wall mirror propped up against the wall behind the sofa with a big black frame. Just something to anchor the upper half of the room a bit more.<br />
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So anyway, this is really just a jumping off point to get the ideas started.<br />
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Ultimately, I really like all these rooms for very different reasons. I like number one the best because it feels really balanced, but I suspect Kira will want to go with lighter curtains, and with all the light that comes into her apartment, I wouldn't want a dark curtain panel blocking any of that out.<br />
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Because of that, I think we need to think carefully about what colors to bring in, what patterns to incorporate, and how to ensure its not only balanced, but that she loves it.<br />
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Next up, I want to talk about hanging curtains in a tricky spot...........Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com58tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-39307764506160601422015-06-25T09:00:00.000-07:002015-06-25T13:30:05.190-07:00Chicago Apartment: Coffee Tables<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Adding onto yesterday's post, I wanted to pull together some (affordable) coffee table options that fit within the living room aesthetic. </div>
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Some are more rustic, some more refined. Some have storage (hello hidden remote controls) while some offer no clutter concealment. Some have glass tops, some are solid wood. Some are more beachy, which some are more elegant. They really run the gamut - hopefully there are some contenders in there for the Chicago apartment.</div>
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Which are your favorites?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiVL6niWRBg8pQq0Q7x-IJ5DQG2rCHFM_Nh3KUXGFpGgawGG75gXNgQH3xMeDxpu1ArRj4i4YQ5IIyy_vJGJvAUsA4mQzllwvc9wDqaTtK9J8skTUdZ49J4e25n8BQCvaa3XT4KJFQvnOV/s1600/Safavieh-Antwan-Coffee-Table-FOX2547A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiVL6niWRBg8pQq0Q7x-IJ5DQG2rCHFM_Nh3KUXGFpGgawGG75gXNgQH3xMeDxpu1ArRj4i4YQ5IIyy_vJGJvAUsA4mQzllwvc9wDqaTtK9J8skTUdZ49J4e25n8BQCvaa3XT4KJFQvnOV/s640/Safavieh-Antwan-Coffee-Table-FOX2547A.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Safavieh-Antwan-Coffee-Table-FOX2547A-FV50974.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZclmHq8TFnmUkBYZrgnD0YkfWQmi7TSHkZvoFKNUCjfaipIt8vb8k2jBkc2C-GUttbSipOGN9sEBUGa2WJyqLapDrlf8Khvoo0sFW8jCuNRVQc2eKA28DurKMRv3iXMvSS-PI7gCL3vaz/s1600/Liberty-Furniture-Coffee-Table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZclmHq8TFnmUkBYZrgnD0YkfWQmi7TSHkZvoFKNUCjfaipIt8vb8k2jBkc2C-GUttbSipOGN9sEBUGa2WJyqLapDrlf8Khvoo0sFW8jCuNRVQc2eKA28DurKMRv3iXMvSS-PI7gCL3vaz/s640/Liberty-Furniture-Coffee-Table.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Liberty-Furniture-Coffee-Table-LIF2447.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Riverside-Furniture-Bay-Cliff-Coffee-Table-37702-RVF5369.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4yiTtrMB3ja-nQNd9m1SPpJceK5MPgFIth1iAhnCpYySolpPJfyeNUwaISavUjz48sUR5UkIdnksyhZLuqo1KC2Gdbyjc3zwueikDF9ggvXtk7rWzJ1gHZs7eZVmuJSWZY6-cU5mg1nZR/s1600/Chatham-Coffee-Table-T500-301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4yiTtrMB3ja-nQNd9m1SPpJceK5MPgFIth1iAhnCpYySolpPJfyeNUwaISavUjz48sUR5UkIdnksyhZLuqo1KC2Gdbyjc3zwueikDF9ggvXtk7rWzJ1gHZs7eZVmuJSWZY6-cU5mg1nZR/s640/Chatham-Coffee-Table-T500-301.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Chatham-Coffee-Table-T500-301-GNT5759.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtF3hcc9cLwUhXriIi3riMcSGrd97UAC0cSbNllM_dJF-P3K5rwhF1VJvGKuNz6it0QEbpGPieAHj1EL0OD4PZPHUWssTaF3U8ZuSYnv4m-FY9mr3GdX4sSI-WOnFCYaniQjTnyssD-rmL/s1600/Tremont%252BCoffee%252BTable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtF3hcc9cLwUhXriIi3riMcSGrd97UAC0cSbNllM_dJF-P3K5rwhF1VJvGKuNz6it0QEbpGPieAHj1EL0OD4PZPHUWssTaF3U8ZuSYnv4m-FY9mr3GdX4sSI-WOnFCYaniQjTnyssD-rmL/s640/Tremont%252BCoffee%252BTable.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Monarch-Specialties-Inc.-Tremont-Coffee-Table-I-3208-I-3258-MNQ1947.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdVQVbh-2g567RpyJgR41HXA6_OCvy4ElrueU7McVZmTjcPH8qlxphCzld9TkaJYsRm6RGX3eKeAKQ7MbljkYWCwRUgz4KBKUR04qG1AYohAtfWarnS9-XPPObTZdYNrakVPBi7IXOSE1u/s1600/Marshone-Coffee-Table-T843-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="633" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdVQVbh-2g567RpyJgR41HXA6_OCvy4ElrueU7McVZmTjcPH8qlxphCzld9TkaJYsRm6RGX3eKeAKQ7MbljkYWCwRUgz4KBKUR04qG1AYohAtfWarnS9-XPPObTZdYNrakVPBi7IXOSE1u/s640/Marshone-Coffee-Table-T843-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wayfair.com/daily-sales/p/T843-1~GNT7009~E20477.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTaoy-ZezA-GPLXWHhYewLV5dmob23D8HoqH79rKWgRvE5In6K6zk4-EqAcNuHSvB1gOFODh-H_DabHZYyPZwlc0Rm5eEUl6mkTEADgcssf2qhGwoYt_LveGEzzSreUWeUCzidpWcSmIFN/s1600/Panama-Jack-Sunroom-Bora-Bora-Coffee-Table-PJS-2001-ATQ-CT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTaoy-ZezA-GPLXWHhYewLV5dmob23D8HoqH79rKWgRvE5In6K6zk4-EqAcNuHSvB1gOFODh-H_DabHZYyPZwlc0Rm5eEUl6mkTEADgcssf2qhGwoYt_LveGEzzSreUWeUCzidpWcSmIFN/s640/Panama-Jack-Sunroom-Bora-Bora-Coffee-Table-PJS-2001-ATQ-CT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Panama-Jack-Sunroom-Bora-Bora-Coffee-Table-PJS-2001-ATQ-CT-PNJA1003.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTOWQlmpaEUjlpgTXHrayNNWKhLArzhZYgu7ZyuwIkC4zU6EtRBAEltzoEIbLBbxZLcql8TW8I3i3jQPXPSp7npx68WRZ1DnP908YhixJXZH0NfCHq9m1LKxyl61wyn8K3o5QaLiok_hfI/s1600/Amberly-Coffee-Table-CSN0211-WF0311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTOWQlmpaEUjlpgTXHrayNNWKhLArzhZYgu7ZyuwIkC4zU6EtRBAEltzoEIbLBbxZLcql8TW8I3i3jQPXPSp7npx68WRZ1DnP908YhixJXZH0NfCHq9m1LKxyl61wyn8K3o5QaLiok_hfI/s640/Amberly-Coffee-Table-CSN0211-WF0311.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Amberly-Coffee-Table-CSN0211-WF0311-UT2720.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJJuaNVRew7BR6jBehILZoNLC5Ztj9-7oX-FaZ7fGYviwavAfccSkqtJc4OAIGXIu-yrNzwYl7Ktvi8wtcUiZjgQYKmV1a7tYiunlvS-18JvYpE7dYjwBpeGET9D6XppTDVQM11_ivWLud/s1600/Safavieh-Manelin-Coffee-Table-AMH6642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJJuaNVRew7BR6jBehILZoNLC5Ztj9-7oX-FaZ7fGYviwavAfccSkqtJc4OAIGXIu-yrNzwYl7Ktvi8wtcUiZjgQYKmV1a7tYiunlvS-18JvYpE7dYjwBpeGET9D6XppTDVQM11_ivWLud/s640/Safavieh-Manelin-Coffee-Table-AMH6642.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Safavieh-Manelin-Coffee-Table-AMH6642-FV54288.html?piid%5B0%5D=12800878" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3mhZemEg4xvsHo_fUiC5PqtjGQ5NSjLCkkDcRSVZ_fKd3vTJwbgaGo-46FXceC-y0ZlQcOHWXwE9XlEZ-GzzsHN7MOkNYol12OnnsacbKN-niEO14GjzOiLE0qWqLzGEkbYs0OEmt_lDc/s1600/Coffee-Table-703198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3mhZemEg4xvsHo_fUiC5PqtjGQ5NSjLCkkDcRSVZ_fKd3vTJwbgaGo-46FXceC-y0ZlQcOHWXwE9XlEZ-GzzsHN7MOkNYol12OnnsacbKN-niEO14GjzOiLE0qWqLzGEkbYs0OEmt_lDc/s640/Coffee-Table-703198.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Coffee-Table-703198-AOAS1277.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<br />Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-28832366569216941222015-06-24T09:00:00.000-07:002015-06-24T09:00:15.586-07:00Chicago Apartment: Living Room Inspiration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now that we've got the layout sort of figured out, it's time to start pulling together inspiration. </div>
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These images came straight from Kira's Pinterest board, and it's pretty clear to see the common themes in what she likes:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq80kcadQlZ0S094puJBaIQowSSZPOvht-ez7G58LgOaiduSnkckj1ONsjMcuieQ0N5lJOFt0tik83CDrnl90mq096tiSIZFN1VNggS7F89FTDxLmpTFGC0o6UMK1-P_5VcI0r-8HjwE_h/s1600/74b4c69d3f07cc29058f35248730d75b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq80kcadQlZ0S094puJBaIQowSSZPOvht-ez7G58LgOaiduSnkckj1ONsjMcuieQ0N5lJOFt0tik83CDrnl90mq096tiSIZFN1VNggS7F89FTDxLmpTFGC0o6UMK1-P_5VcI0r-8HjwE_h/s640/74b4c69d3f07cc29058f35248730d75b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://canadianloghomes.com/blog/2013/08/04/rustic-home-decor-august/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijoBh-Lnpfs3PZyVe2HAIX_GvqKs1Rf2M43xeaV08Z1-0VxnvzAMDubJcw-UGV6A2JLja8Z1kZBlqXa47I7pEl2TxhW4Jm-tAPsZL9aCHe0WB33Vw8WPcbEg_krSaO8RbmcIhyphenhyphenTQmEQlyF/s1600/61847de52173b7d70370b5c00c7469a4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijoBh-Lnpfs3PZyVe2HAIX_GvqKs1Rf2M43xeaV08Z1-0VxnvzAMDubJcw-UGV6A2JLja8Z1kZBlqXa47I7pEl2TxhW4Jm-tAPsZL9aCHe0WB33Vw8WPcbEg_krSaO8RbmcIhyphenhyphenTQmEQlyF/s640/61847de52173b7d70370b5c00c7469a4.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://vtinteriors.blogspot.com/2014/05/in-navy-blue.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDFg9707ugZV2rFRlHAP2A8U2h2gP8o75jwihBoahmv9gN1yhLFSrx5AGpAg-QbFv-2BYtTMR-YZHpVjj4Jw1gOau7inoVYxVlCreTBL8nJE8HZa_5Jp1p1KLTDaYa7QxXpQ_dM5QfzF53/s1600/7945362ed6c2d153d7955d95caad6651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDFg9707ugZV2rFRlHAP2A8U2h2gP8o75jwihBoahmv9gN1yhLFSrx5AGpAg-QbFv-2BYtTMR-YZHpVjj4Jw1gOau7inoVYxVlCreTBL8nJE8HZa_5Jp1p1KLTDaYa7QxXpQ_dM5QfzF53/s640/7945362ed6c2d153d7955d95caad6651.jpg" width="614" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://canadianloghomes.com/blog/2013/08/04/rustic-home-decor-august/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvFAiAz9PxaF69zcClr-5M_KuXlcWe-jZMbPudvOKbHnlaxjT35viJX9CgtNdSTfWvggWmJ0jzc7e59Tn8rid2_XYTD5TeyqhdJqBmpvG72YX8J4k0blpx3lsOg-uDbpDdh-1YhYi0h8n/s1600/b08ac33220449975c5a3afac2215ed4e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvFAiAz9PxaF69zcClr-5M_KuXlcWe-jZMbPudvOKbHnlaxjT35viJX9CgtNdSTfWvggWmJ0jzc7e59Tn8rid2_XYTD5TeyqhdJqBmpvG72YX8J4k0blpx3lsOg-uDbpDdh-1YhYi0h8n/s640/b08ac33220449975c5a3afac2215ed4e.jpg" width="496" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.glucksteinhome.com/more/inspiration/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Vs07fIqkr8OiMe_S4VQSKg2r2og7iE98VLZq_k88XD3SvMH-4CJdly3P3kJAMRSk1UdsvRB7vJ7hOsaGj1tlGVnkucDoTkNJIPVDMToBo7LIhvQKgTS8Ea9nZnHgD2NZpGpqVbnxmOJP/s1600/f00aa6f169a0ff893d286df3a0ba8d87.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Vs07fIqkr8OiMe_S4VQSKg2r2og7iE98VLZq_k88XD3SvMH-4CJdly3P3kJAMRSk1UdsvRB7vJ7hOsaGj1tlGVnkucDoTkNJIPVDMToBo7LIhvQKgTS8Ea9nZnHgD2NZpGpqVbnxmOJP/s640/f00aa6f169a0ff893d286df3a0ba8d87.jpg" width="514" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.lizmarieblog.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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Clean lines.<br />
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Traditional core pieces.<br />
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A little preppy.<br />
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A little nautical.<br />
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Light colors.<br />
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Gold accents.<br />
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Soft upholstered furniture.<br />
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Warm wood tones.<br />
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A few rustic pieces.<br />
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Based on things she has, and things she plans to buy along with her Pinterest pages, I pulled in a few benches, a coffee table, and a few table lamps that go with the look and feel of what she likes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyU6sgUW84NRDMAUwSVebybWjk_KWNGqDwWtauhBFe0M5AqYoC8hUIF8Yb_wQbtYpaO0pzve1IZ3AYWGZAmBMtVilwWPm41aYIh3U3PkWZ8Jdwb17k1uV1JE3Podz3p7b5ghbF75Qhic3M/s1600/Inspiration+Pieces.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyU6sgUW84NRDMAUwSVebybWjk_KWNGqDwWtauhBFe0M5AqYoC8hUIF8Yb_wQbtYpaO0pzve1IZ3AYWGZAmBMtVilwWPm41aYIh3U3PkWZ8Jdwb17k1uV1JE3Podz3p7b5ghbF75Qhic3M/s640/Inspiration+Pieces.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/cameron-upholstered-roll-arm-sofa-collection/?pkey=ccameron-sofas&" target="_blank">Roll Arm Sofa</a>, <a href="http://www.lowes.com/pd_459407-25550-AMH6568C_0__?productId=4331968&cm_mmc=SCE_PLA_ONLY-_-HomeFashions-_-SosIndoorFurniture-_-4331968:Safavieh&CAWELAID=1755571335&kpid=4331968&CAGPSPN=pla&k_clickID=1eb8a2c2-f4ab-4429-fa41-0000300d7dab&kpid=4331968#img" target="_blank">Console Table</a>, <a href="http://www.target.com/p/safavieh-ottoman-navy/-/A-16234802#prodSlot=_1_47" target="_blank">Navy Bench</a>, <a href="http://www.target.com/p/threshold-bar-cart-gold/-/A-15417452" target="_blank">Gold Bar Cart</a>, <a href="http://www.target.com/p/threshold-tufted-bench-buff-beige-and-gold/-/A-14698107#prodSlot=_1_14" target="_blank">Tufted Bench</a>, <a href="http://www.wayfair.com/daily-sales/p/T843-1~GNT7009~E20477.html" target="_blank">Coffee Table</a>, <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/terrace-side-table-h530/?pkey=cside-tables%7C%7C&cm_src=side-tables||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_--_-" target="_blank">Gold Side Table</a>, <a href="http://www.worldmarket.com/product/distressed+gold+moroccan+table+lamp+base.do?page=2&from=fn" target="_blank">Gold Table Lamp</a>, <a href="http://www.worldmarket.com/product/wood+x+table+lamp+base.do?&from=fn" target="_blank">Wooden Table Lamp</a></div>
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She already has the white console table, gold bar cart, and gold side table, (numbers 2, 4, and 7) and plans to buy this sofa from Pottery Barn (number 1).<br />
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What I like (and what I think she will like) about the other things I've pulled in (the coffee table, the lamps, and the benches), is that they are all within the neutral palate that she likes, and will serve as a canvas to bring in more color through additional accessories (pillows, curtains, art, table accessories, books, and perhaps the rug).<br />
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A few things to be very careful of based on the above pieces...<br />
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<b><u>1. Too much gold.</u></b><br />
Yes, there is such a thing. With the gold side table, the gold bar cart, and a series of gold leaf abstract paintings she has, she already has quite a bit of gold going on. The gold lamp will only work if she doesn't do the gold ottoman, and if it's placed on the console table at the far end away from the gold side table. If she does the gold ottoman, it cannot be placed next to the gold side table, and the room will feel more balanced with the wooden table lamp on the console table behind the sofa.<br />
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<b><u>2. Needs color</u></b><br />
As I said, these pieces serve as a neutral canvas for color (and the ability to switch accessories out with the seasons for a different look and feel between warmer and cooler months). If the curtains are neutral, the walls are neutral, the rug is neutral, and the pillows are neutral with all this neutral furniture already going on, this is going to look BORING. At least two of the three (rug, curtains, pillows) need to have color and pattern going on to bring in interest - my recommendation would be either the rug and pillows, or the pillows and curtains, if she doesn't want to do all three.<br />
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So this is the jumping off point... time to source a few more pieces to choose from (coffee table, lamps, and chair / bench options) and then the fun stuff... the accessories and color that will bring life to the living space.Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-20175749222175174242015-06-22T13:00:00.000-07:002015-06-22T14:07:36.652-07:00Furnishing a Chicago Apartment: The LayoutHello friends! It's been a while (does every post start like that now??)<br />
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I just got back from a weekend in Chicago, visiting my best friend, Kira. She's about to move from a super modern high-rise apartment on the river, to a really charming spot in Gold Coast.<br />
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Luckily, the new place has an amazing layout - tons of light (which is essential for those long, dark, Chicago winters), and it is in the most amazing neighborhood. It's all tree lined streets and darling brownstone walk-ups; a block from the lake, and it's brimming with restaurants, shopping, bars, and coffee shops.</div>
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It's amazing. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUn_2dcYjZD1fZVZcU7V3Ez1yjqXgvMyJiWD4gJppCiPyvXz6Irz6jMRqc3vw3efn_DJLMDluQff2Vq5RFdd1Rk4XwjwAbghgJ2e8PJi8pi1ABFDAM0fmRP6r05Yu3Ac3fbn0KCsus6Zi_/s1600/gold+coast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUn_2dcYjZD1fZVZcU7V3Ez1yjqXgvMyJiWD4gJppCiPyvXz6Irz6jMRqc3vw3efn_DJLMDluQff2Vq5RFdd1Rk4XwjwAbghgJ2e8PJi8pi1ABFDAM0fmRP6r05Yu3Ac3fbn0KCsus6Zi_/s640/gold+coast.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The challenge is taking a completely empty apartment, and turning it into something really fabulous. This is where I have been enlisted to help.<br />
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This is her first apartment of her own, and while she already has some really good stuff (bedroom furniture, art, occasional furniture and accessories), she's also going to need to invest in some major pieces to complete the main living spaces. Since she moves in just a few short weeks, we want to get ahead of everything now, and put together a game plan.<br />
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The first thing I like to tackle is the layout. Over the weekend, we brought a measuring tape to the apartment, to get a sense of what can fit, and where everything should go. Each room is BIG, and based on cable hook-ups, doors, windows, and electrical outlets, it's set up for a good floor plan already.<br />
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Starting today with the living room, here's the layout we're working with:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPrWAvLgwnD5otjFyeygBRkbwjUm95byRo6nK9HYRrmyYCW1sj1e9LnZIBPaQyMeffdb_9HIlMGa5VmAZFgNBYCvEAV_wEUpnOHTsDKC1m6aqilhvvj9k-vE3NHMD040UA_-geyMjf_eVz/s1600/layout+-+bare.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPrWAvLgwnD5otjFyeygBRkbwjUm95byRo6nK9HYRrmyYCW1sj1e9LnZIBPaQyMeffdb_9HIlMGa5VmAZFgNBYCvEAV_wEUpnOHTsDKC1m6aqilhvvj9k-vE3NHMD040UA_-geyMjf_eVz/s640/layout+-+bare.png" width="584" /></a></div>
The living room is open to the kitchen with a bar - perfect for barstools, and has an entire wall of windows letting in tons of natural light. <br />
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She needs this space to function as both living and dining areas so with the cable hook-up running along the left wall, the ideal layout looks something like this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6tURgSB1ecJUxY0o6swaezl6wI3zPjCp82KIPd6GgzNq5AdNsw0cHJBBiMRzzhrL05BB-RlOuTXF7zPjTEDnSDhf1tGinoUtBiju_bxDgJoF_HH7_AWL0tm7SJWM4tKy4Xox4Ci6QY18I/s1600/layout+-+PLAN.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6tURgSB1ecJUxY0o6swaezl6wI3zPjCp82KIPd6GgzNq5AdNsw0cHJBBiMRzzhrL05BB-RlOuTXF7zPjTEDnSDhf1tGinoUtBiju_bxDgJoF_HH7_AWL0tm7SJWM4tKy4Xox4Ci6QY18I/s640/layout+-+PLAN.png" width="584" /></a></div>
Since the living space is where she needs the most new furniture, we need to prioritize what she buys first. Here's what's on the list of essentials and first priorities:<br />
- New sofa<br />
- Coffee table<br />
- TV<br />
- TV stand<br />
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Also on the list, but less essential or decorative are:<br />
- Dining table for hosting (and chairs)<br />
- Additional living room seating<br />
- Lighting (table and floor lamps)<br />
- Curtains<br />
- Possibly a rug<br />
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With this list of furniture, and a broad layout in place, I put together three layout options that could work for using this space as dual living and dining - good for hosting dinners, and get-togethers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiMjt0XdqtMTbsBHJmbMhhRXHopRvnOTXdxXiQaLC1zDuJFRHAbOtSdCYo59IMjPI1IODQccNsTLLLg2GIStq1sBxl_91Xj0jOhwp_Qa2ZSoQV4ULhb25Pf70jlISlxUcErDq2d2FQa-o2/s1600/LAYOUT+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiMjt0XdqtMTbsBHJmbMhhRXHopRvnOTXdxXiQaLC1zDuJFRHAbOtSdCYo59IMjPI1IODQccNsTLLLg2GIStq1sBxl_91Xj0jOhwp_Qa2ZSoQV4ULhb25Pf70jlISlxUcErDq2d2FQa-o2/s640/LAYOUT+1.png" width="548" /></a></div>
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Option I: really good for entertaining - the benches are low to the ground, so they don't block off the view of the living room as you walk in. They are also really awesome for entertaining when you need extra seating, or if you wanted to tuck them away for more standing room, they could easily go underneath the sofa table behind the couch.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPi0JwKf_htxdAeiV0wl4ZkkWtMB2Bi0BMHCQa3eRJJb7RvwpG0i9ZzF60aw83opn8HJy9OLNEKuf5Dh5IdsG8ugsXQD744gwbhDGZbJRS0VMbTCKIGsu_h6Voi-U1PDg9Job3owsc-9mJ/s1600/LAYOUT+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPi0JwKf_htxdAeiV0wl4ZkkWtMB2Bi0BMHCQa3eRJJb7RvwpG0i9ZzF60aw83opn8HJy9OLNEKuf5Dh5IdsG8ugsXQD744gwbhDGZbJRS0VMbTCKIGsu_h6Voi-U1PDg9Job3owsc-9mJ/s640/LAYOUT+2.png" width="548" /></a></div>
Option II has fewer seating options, but brings in a desk to this space as well. Since Kira will be working from home several days a week, I thought it might be nice to have a dedicated work space that isn't a) the couch b) her bed. Having a desk makes for a more productive work day at home, and also helps you unplug - shut the laptop, put it in the desk drawer, and leave your work for the day at your desk when it's time to watch bad reality TV.<br />
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In this scenario, I didn't include a desk chair - I figure one of the kitchen table chairs can double as desk chair, and can be brought back over to the table if company is coming over. The large side chair here could also be substituted with the dual stools.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZr3ZwD865SeZOfVHlpcg_vp6NqKWz7TUVv3tXtYVHcjPSovHQkQQJI13dJLqr_3MF6CJ2MwKf8IQu-2aeRBRNaAGXU1O4OfpPJu9wi56bc3AaDxDV6Uwp6zjtAJoaJsmXruJu7D7XAnkZ/s1600/LAYOUT+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZr3ZwD865SeZOfVHlpcg_vp6NqKWz7TUVv3tXtYVHcjPSovHQkQQJI13dJLqr_3MF6CJ2MwKf8IQu-2aeRBRNaAGXU1O4OfpPJu9wi56bc3AaDxDV6Uwp6zjtAJoaJsmXruJu7D7XAnkZ/s640/LAYOUT+3.png" width="548" /></a></div>
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Which brings me to Option III: the desk is gone, the additional seating is brought back, but the kitchen table has changed. </div>
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I scooched everything in the room a bit closer to the windows to accommodate a slightly larger rectangular table. This can a) seat more people and b) double as a desk during the day while she works from home (whereas I find working at a circular table kind of annoying - there is not enough room on the sides of your laptop for note taking, or an extra mouse).</div>
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Each layout obviously has it's pros and cons, but which do you like best?</div>
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<i>Side note to all this: There are more posts coming on this apartment - tackling questions like how to hang curtains in a tricky space, and more exciting... a few inspiration boards that detail out what pieces to buy to fill this gorgeous space.</i></div>
<br />Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-89931665659173700852015-02-04T11:46:00.000-08:002015-02-04T11:46:14.321-08:00Designing a room around Dark Furniture: Part IOne of my good friends and her husband just bought the most AMAZING dining room table from Restoration Hardware. It's actually <a href="http://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/category/products.jsp?link=19thCReclaimedRussianOakColumnRectangularTable&categoryId=cat3250075" target="_blank">this one</a> (or very very similar to this one), and it's absolutely stunning.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ZSHhbx6xFkkXRI_mZZg1K80VIZaQfK2R9A1qj9LKf7k0jpZ5LNegZZgol1oSDHp-N2q76Vj6knJr-F5OC2ouBGIa-OHCZE7t_HW2rH9Q5VR67CyYC33VSWhNp5giLVcfiCmOFj_hxisn/s1600/restoration+hardware+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ZSHhbx6xFkkXRI_mZZg1K80VIZaQfK2R9A1qj9LKf7k0jpZ5LNegZZgol1oSDHp-N2q76Vj6knJr-F5OC2ouBGIa-OHCZE7t_HW2rH9Q5VR67CyYC33VSWhNp5giLVcfiCmOFj_hxisn/s1600/restoration+hardware+table.jpg" height="314" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now that it's been delivered, they are in the process of making room for it in their apartment, and have very cleverly decided to split their huge living room, so that half is for the dining area, and half is for the living room.<br />
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The old floor-plan looked something like this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN9U0KBjhq7ym984TwX4Pc3aYBdFaZgiLEYptJTWFhHOVAWpxZb6-fDBefSOu83HOkQQQLmjTuZ75IAoKlHqBc8bZXiIW43S6YErnwDMu2yxWTixG0LmxsyBsb48SvAw78Ur23xINjdGwN/s1600/FLOORPLAN+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN9U0KBjhq7ym984TwX4Pc3aYBdFaZgiLEYptJTWFhHOVAWpxZb6-fDBefSOu83HOkQQQLmjTuZ75IAoKlHqBc8bZXiIW43S6YErnwDMu2yxWTixG0LmxsyBsb48SvAw78Ur23xINjdGwN/s1600/FLOORPLAN+1.png" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
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I only know the general details of how the room is being split up, but I imagine the new floor-plan will look similar to this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS6N_GiqQYAYqa_e0uzUekK_1DCWyXISrhIvtwynHd5Gllwce1_XCnkrNFADxIVGT-bQQgpR-5jH-MMAx5qNIfvRcuOHBhFxTX-ZCHP4avzHflvHT4dFddzsKRnAg2eQ8K1_u9SdhrR0MV/s1600/morg's%2Bliving%2Broom%2B2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS6N_GiqQYAYqa_e0uzUekK_1DCWyXISrhIvtwynHd5Gllwce1_XCnkrNFADxIVGT-bQQgpR-5jH-MMAx5qNIfvRcuOHBhFxTX-ZCHP4avzHflvHT4dFddzsKRnAg2eQ8K1_u9SdhrR0MV/s1600/morg's%2Bliving%2Broom%2B2.png" height="472" width="640" /></a></div>
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Genius, right?</div>
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By flip-flopping the room, you now walk into the "dining room" from the hallway, and in general have a good flow for entertaining.<br />
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What else is changing from the old layout? Well the ottoman is going to be way too big to transfer over to the other side of the room, so that needs to be replaced. By replacing it with a smaller coffee table, and eventually downsizing the TV stand, they will have room for living and dining spaces in the same room. I LOVE this. City living at its best.<br />
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The challenge? Designing the rest of the room around dark furniture (ding ding ding, the title of this post!)<br />
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The new dining room table is made of reclaimed oak - which is so incredibly gorgeous but the stain on it is a dark brown. Their existing sofa and club chair that will live on the other half of the room are both made of dark brown leather, which means there is a lot of dark brown happening in this space.<br />
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The walls of the room are a very light taupe color, the crown molding is white, and a beautiful bay window that lets in tons of natural light. Oh, and the space still has original hardwood floors. It doesn't get better than that! The room has good bones, so it will be an easy task to use what they already have, and turn it into a complete and cohesive space.<br />
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Here's where the room stood last week after the table was delivered. Excuse the iPhone picture - it's a little grainy here:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha0_qhkm29X-LAMf8_9Z1xRaSIDFxEbbum4SG3K1f_TmWhhwAIG7FKdg8-3_WQGVUhqe-PpkVmhPxRR7RzJUymmtBV4drW0hdQYRoGUM9VKLNrZ9DKdSjCIZQa1MUBKDsZu3r-t6lRsD2V/s1600/morg's%2Bliving%2Broom.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha0_qhkm29X-LAMf8_9Z1xRaSIDFxEbbum4SG3K1f_TmWhhwAIG7FKdg8-3_WQGVUhqe-PpkVmhPxRR7RzJUymmtBV4drW0hdQYRoGUM9VKLNrZ9DKdSjCIZQa1MUBKDsZu3r-t6lRsD2V/s1600/morg's%2Bliving%2Broom.png" height="640" width="496" /></a></div>
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The knee-jerk reaction to having lots of dark furniture is to compensate with lots of light colors everywhere else. On one hand, yes, bringing in light colors around the dark pieces (ie: light pillows on a dark sofa) do help to lighten the space, but the real magic needs to happen in the space at and above eye level when you walk in a room. Think about it for a second... dark furniture sits below eye level when you walk into a room, so if you have light walls, and light curtains, and light art (or worse, no art), your eye goes straight down, and visually the space just feels smaller. Adding interest through color and pattern at and above eye level, creates a feeling of balance, and so the "challenge" of dark furniture, sort of isn't a "challenge" anymore.<br />
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Trust me, it will make more sense as you see it come together.<br />
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Ok, moving on... so what's the plan in here? Since the above picture was taken, my friend already ordered a natural fiber rug to go under the dining room table. Good call girl.<br />
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The rug is going to define the dining space, and separate it from the living room. Also, massive area rugs are SUPER expensive, so to even think of getting a rug to cover this entire room, we're talking serious money. No thanks.<br />
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Why else was it a good idea to go sisal? It's neutral, it's easy to clean (it's going under a dining table after all) and it's mainly covered up with the table anyway, so the focus of the room will be elsewhere. Any pattern would go mainly unseen here with a huge table on top of it.</div>
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My friend also said that the curtains need to be replaced because they can't find the same ones anymore, but she likes the blue so isn't opposed to something similar. </div>
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Sweet. Perfect place to jump right in...</div>
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Here's what I think needs to happen on this side of the room:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs1cEwaohVNMEG1pw0AZvXKfaEVcsyobO1pBJUR8OMKujpU4u1aoP7lXBTl5YL6wlv9OzXmHFdSo7xR2O4qnZUWeTqXsOF6-MIS-kUuW49l3m0ptE3EeR6CiccIHKqA9u-55soNFSK1c_c/s1600/morg's%2Bliving%2Broom%2B2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs1cEwaohVNMEG1pw0AZvXKfaEVcsyobO1pBJUR8OMKujpU4u1aoP7lXBTl5YL6wlv9OzXmHFdSo7xR2O4qnZUWeTqXsOF6-MIS-kUuW49l3m0ptE3EeR6CiccIHKqA9u-55soNFSK1c_c/s1600/morg's%2Bliving%2Broom%2B2.png" height="640" width="526" /></a></div>
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Minimal changes my friends. </div>
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First, they need chairs. They obviously know this.</div>
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Then, I think that filling that back wall out is priority #2, so that your eye doesn't stop at the table. </div>
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Oversize art will help... like OVERSIZE. I always find that it's hard to find large scale art... it seems so big when you buy it, but once you get it on an empty wall like this one, it's like an island in the middle of an ocean. My point? We need to find massive, beautiful, and not ridiculously expensive art. </div>
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What else? A bigger lamp that takes up more visual real estate will help. And plants. I LOVE bringing in larger house plants to wake up an empty corner.</div>
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I started playing around to test out different looks, and at first, I went more "traditional". I think the table is so amazing - it's a little rustic.... a little french-y feeling......... I loved the idea of adding Louis XIV chairs with it. </div>
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Here's the first look I came up with:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3SY4vDuv-hp1ismvLV89NRH59leH_LL_UgbXI27NKdvpo4wBzusl7iJuOo9MS8N9FrsR5Pn6ij6xluQrkPT77XC_HfdFwrLqbXXm9-bjPcEC41tkX7cE9nLcGJ13PfHuU8LEBKRSkDSj7/s1600/morg+living+room+inspiration+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3SY4vDuv-hp1ismvLV89NRH59leH_LL_UgbXI27NKdvpo4wBzusl7iJuOo9MS8N9FrsR5Pn6ij6xluQrkPT77XC_HfdFwrLqbXXm9-bjPcEC41tkX7cE9nLcGJ13PfHuU8LEBKRSkDSj7/s1600/morg+living+room+inspiration+2.png" height="476" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love love LOVE these chairs - that dusty blue linen is so pretty, and I was thrilled to see it on two complimentary sets of Louis XIV chairs. The blue fabric and lighter wood on the chairs surrounding the table will immediately bring life into the space.</div>
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LOVE. </div>
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I also thought it was nice to have the taller rectangular chairs at the head of the table, and mix in the round backs in the middle, but again if you like the look of one over the other, you could certainly stick with one type of chair.</div>
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I should also take the time now to call out the fact that the wood on the chairs is NOT the same color (or even same type) as the wood on the table. </div>
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That's on purpose my friends. </div>
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Some people are weird about mixing woods, but it doesn't bother me! I like the look of different woods in a space, because it looks "collected" instead of "we bought the set". If it will drive you nuts, the good thing about wood is that you can stain it, but I like the different wood tones.</div>
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Moving onto the art, I am SO into botanical art right now - you literally see it everywhere, from shelter magazines to the blog world. These oversize prints from Ballard are SO GOOD. They are massive - each one is 42" high, by 27" wide. With prints this large, the frames should get pretty close to meeting the picture molding that runs around the walls, which will naturally draw the eye up, while taking up almost 5' across that wall. Mission accomplished - these would meet the goal of filling the blank space out, without making it feel super busy (the way that a gallery wall can sometimes do).</div>
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The floor lamp has a bent bronze neck (shaft? stem? base? what IS that called??) and I like that this also helps fill out the space on that wall. I also like that having the bent shaft makes it different than a standard floor lamp. If the wall was still feeling empty once all of this was in the room, my recommendation would be to have two identical floor lamps similar to this flanking either side of the buffet. I also can't remember the overhead lighting situation in here, so they might actually need the extra light. Boom. Kill two birds with one stone.</div>
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The fiddle leaf fig stands on the other side of the buffet in this mock up, but really any sizeable green houseplant would do in the corner.</div>
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And finally, the curtains... I thought that with the blue linen chairs, blue curtains might be a bit much, so I mocked this up with grey linen. I think I like it. The lightweight fabric will feel visually light (as opposed to a heavy fabric like velvet), while the grey still has enough of a color presence to draw the eye up to the ceiling.</div>
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Overall I like how this all came together, but I didn't stop there... I swapped a few things out and came up with another version of this room:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6AfSVVMuEQEvptbIWgriGE9FMecqYznELVtTGPWRJP522sqC0RVbRUAFg8q-lLNF4i9NgtS-aq6cZ1C52el80lhIpl0FZk7spIZWkUiqqCL9aXb1ZEMbPF7ZoQNSTqPIMP8fqyxsG_NT/s1600/morg+living+room+inspiration+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6AfSVVMuEQEvptbIWgriGE9FMecqYznELVtTGPWRJP522sqC0RVbRUAFg8q-lLNF4i9NgtS-aq6cZ1C52el80lhIpl0FZk7spIZWkUiqqCL9aXb1ZEMbPF7ZoQNSTqPIMP8fqyxsG_NT/s1600/morg+living+room+inspiration+3.png" height="486" width="640" /></a></div>
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What changed? Well the chairs are a slight variation of those first ones, this time in a sandy linen. With the sisal rug and all the wood, it feels like a lot of brown on brown, and so the accessories need to change. I did a dark blue (almost navy) curtain, and swapped out the art, for a symmetrical gallery wall of... wait... what is that... more botanical prints! Holla!</div>
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I told you I'm crazy for botanical prints right now.</div>
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These ones have a super saturated inky blue background with that green... I love it. I think with the navy curtains, it looks awesome. I'm still half and half on the chairs though... is it too much brown or are they ok with the art and curtains? I think I need to see the color of the linen in person to tell if its more brown than cream.<br />
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My friend mentioned that they do like the vibe of West Elm, so I wen on to put together a third, less traditional, more modern version of this space...</div>
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...so another mock-up was born:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zF8sUdW9F9vnxs13iWgZXu9uyLdRW8Z58_4OxBoDY3Y4E40INB10NKo1XImaTpmgYKde3IjMKPghj6Bq7GxFiPvUL6fCgyJECH8PeKi8m8QjmuKdmc0F1dkcdwdTBJ_-LJ6vFUbKhJsC/s1600/morg+living+room+inspiration+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zF8sUdW9F9vnxs13iWgZXu9uyLdRW8Z58_4OxBoDY3Y4E40INB10NKo1XImaTpmgYKde3IjMKPghj6Bq7GxFiPvUL6fCgyJECH8PeKi8m8QjmuKdmc0F1dkcdwdTBJ_-LJ6vFUbKhJsC/s1600/morg+living+room+inspiration+5.png" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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The starting point for me in here was the curtains. I think these are so cool, and the pattern will definitely succeed in drawing the eye up, and bringing some color to the room. The floor lamp also got switched up for an aged bronze pharmacy lamp. I like alternative floor lamps, and these just look cool, although take up less visual real estate than the floor lamp with the drum shade.</div>
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I'm loving the color that these chairs bring to the space - I also love the detail of the individually hammered nail heads around the edges. It just makes it a little more special.</div>
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Some of you might be thinking... <i>If you're trying to lighten up the space, why are you putting dark blue chairs with already dark furniture?? </i> And I totally hear you... but the point I'm trying to drive home is the need for <i><u>balance</u></i>. </div>
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The challenge is not how to bring as much light colored "stuff" as possible around the dark furniture, but rather in balancing the darkness with other rich colors at or above eye level. So while these chairs are upholstered in a darker peacock colored fabric, the shock of color paired with similar colors in the art, and yet another variation of the color echoed in the curtains balances things out.</div>
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Even if none of these ideas make it off the cutting room floor and into real life, this is a good starting point for visualizing this half of the room...</div>
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Next up, I'll be tackling some ideas for the other side of the room... the living room side. Working on integrating accessories that accent their dark leather sofa, club chair, and some ideas on how to style a cohesive space to pair with their new dining room...</div>
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Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-88795681065440705082015-01-19T09:00:00.000-08:002015-01-19T09:00:01.789-08:00Baby Rooms: Statement Walls and Ceilings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am pretty sure that if you played one of those psychological word association games, and someone said "statement wall" the first thing you thought of wouldn't be "baby room", however I happen to think these two things... statement walls (and ceilings) and baby rooms kind of go hand in hand.</div>
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<i>Why am I thinking about baby rooms</i> you might wonder? No, I am not with child. </div>
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My sister and one of my best friends are both pregnant, and due very VERY soon! With babies on the brain, I've been mulling around the idea of my own future baby's nursery. And by "mulling around" I really mean, giving WAY too much thought to. So much so that I even have a super secret baby board on Pinterest - it's private, and yes, that is actually it's name. Don't get me wrong, it's not that I'm hoarding my baby room ideas, but more that I don't want my friends to think I'm accidentally pregnant before Kris and I get married this summer.</div>
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I digress.</div>
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Anyway, this post was born, after I was aggressively pinning to my super secret baby board over the weekend. I was in a food coma after too much pasta, and a not so great Paul Walker movie, and found myself just pinning away... nursery after nursery, bunny eared hat after baby moccasin (yes, baby moccasin's are a thing). 45 minutes into my pinning frenzy, I realized something. About 90% of all the baby rooms I loved had one thing in common.</div>
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<br />Statement walls, or ceilings. Yes, a statement ceiling is a thing now too (along with baby moccasin's), and they are AWESOME.</div>
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Example one:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeyKdztdHJimy0bYZZf8GsK_gr0r4gP7-EqHyhJegq5OWFB96ZTdGwnDLXtXsw-XNewr0F-Z3n1b8CH2xbdr7rRawn6251fAHXgFdll6uLJ5VM0eYLs0fJPfojTwBEswTQtbIw2y-alnOo/s1600/8ea1063243aeb6b482e79073751b71ae.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeyKdztdHJimy0bYZZf8GsK_gr0r4gP7-EqHyhJegq5OWFB96ZTdGwnDLXtXsw-XNewr0F-Z3n1b8CH2xbdr7rRawn6251fAHXgFdll6uLJ5VM0eYLs0fJPfojTwBEswTQtbIw2y-alnOo/s1600/8ea1063243aeb6b482e79073751b71ae.jpg" height="640" width="512" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.spearmintbaby.com/2012/06/decorating-a-small-nursery-2/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+spearmintbaby/sqLA+(spearmint+baby)&utm_content=Google+Reader" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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This nursery, albeit beautiful is a little bland. Grey and white galore. It's nice - clearly the parents have good taste (or a talented, yet, color averse designer) but just as you're getting all judge-y about how this poor baby's nursery is so completely and utterly neutral, you look up and bam. </div>
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That ceiling.</div>
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Those stripes.</div>
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It just gets me. And I bet same goes for the baby.</div>
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It makes so much sense to paint the ceiling something cool... that baby is lying in the crib, brainstorming how to escape, and all the while, staring at the ceiling. It (the baby) will probably log countless hours staring at the ceiling, so why not make it something worth staring at. Plus the stripes will probably confuse the baby and make it sleepy, which is the ultimate goal, right??</div>
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Anyway, I have one more note about stripes that I want to add in.</div>
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Warning: Some of you might hate me for what I'm about to say, but in my (very humble) opinion, stripes on a wall are SO DONE. Please people, for the love of god stop painting stripes on the wall... at least for a minute. </div>
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BUT on the ceiling?? Stripes on the ceiling = awesome.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Also, I wanted to add for good measure that I actually love this nursery - monotone colors and all.</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Zhsc6ulCJsUSuQao9WZrWkVT7hAXvKP7cO-oPtIO08Ni-KNVZckwYeibK5iblbQpz4OX1Xp5gTk1mUUMCU5jVd4zUJ9GCWdSAztx0Hw89kWhP_9bjR_14Fv7rfIXnKXBOti5XLAXZI3F/s1600/b01eed165ff0d52e6f025e526eb0cb39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Zhsc6ulCJsUSuQao9WZrWkVT7hAXvKP7cO-oPtIO08Ni-KNVZckwYeibK5iblbQpz4OX1Xp5gTk1mUUMCU5jVd4zUJ9GCWdSAztx0Hw89kWhP_9bjR_14Fv7rfIXnKXBOti5XLAXZI3F/s1600/b01eed165ff0d52e6f025e526eb0cb39.jpg" height="640" width="564" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://mommo-design.blogspot.it/2013/04/diy-wall-decor.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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Ok moving on... if grey isn't your thing, you'll LOVE this one. Hello color! And a wall mural!</div>
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Can you just imagine all the fun little games of pretend your kids could have in a room with a mural that conjures up images of the "It's a Small World" ride from Disneyland???</div>
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And the magenta next to that yellow???</div>
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It's just too good.</div>
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I will say, this room is much better suited for a small child (and probably a girl) as opposed to an infant, but it could be a magical solution for a room shared by baby and older sibling, or even in a playroom.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvqaGlI0EgK3qqmVBXe6nyD2-Yjkqw4ow_rcVa4a-uZfEN_jCq7CJkjQsZ4x5p0ieoA_leqo9RA7uRrw_mw9fTh6oBkD2PhSQ8VTTS4MZMMLOAJDFwOATFfsIyOD6qOjjphq_jwFJlGqVr/s1600/baf32ad886acebca483c9c4437e04df3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvqaGlI0EgK3qqmVBXe6nyD2-Yjkqw4ow_rcVa4a-uZfEN_jCq7CJkjQsZ4x5p0ieoA_leqo9RA7uRrw_mw9fTh6oBkD2PhSQ8VTTS4MZMMLOAJDFwOATFfsIyOD6qOjjphq_jwFJlGqVr/s1600/baf32ad886acebca483c9c4437e04df3.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.thehandmadehome.net/2013/07/gender-neutral-nursery-design/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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And if the last room wasn't whimsical enough, check out the wallpaper on this ceiling!</div>
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Some of you may be familiar with this print from one of my favorites, Jenny of Little Green Notebook - she recently did the ceiling of her girl's playroom in this exact wallpaper, and it is just so darling. I love the little swallows flying around in the clouds, and the various shades of blue would work equally well in either a girl or boy's room.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_1Calxw3D5jWccUpyPGfW7f9XA0w2qq95pxhOrP3sauiiiE0iCpGp2FBD00N1qDY_YTvvY-OUN9gnBvToCc8hAN5SlwGoI2-Sllqt9CDzSe_5O6HDxmAvEcHvzDMQKJ0aTY8NB-OpTl1D/s1600/6dc8b8ba5ba63dc6b8be3fc8d43a372d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_1Calxw3D5jWccUpyPGfW7f9XA0w2qq95pxhOrP3sauiiiE0iCpGp2FBD00N1qDY_YTvvY-OUN9gnBvToCc8hAN5SlwGoI2-Sllqt9CDzSe_5O6HDxmAvEcHvzDMQKJ0aTY8NB-OpTl1D/s1600/6dc8b8ba5ba63dc6b8be3fc8d43a372d.jpg" height="640" width="604" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/morganshanahan/black-nurseries-that-are-surprisingly-cheerful" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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More striped ceilings, and this time in mustard yellow. Now THAT is a statement. Luckily, I happen to love it.</div>
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<br />And with the dark walls? Sooooooo good. Can you imagine if the dark paint was also chalkboard paint? Some people feel the same way about chalkboard paint as I do about striped walls, but you know, we can agree to disagree here. </div>
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For a kid's room what could be better than encouraging that kind of creativity and freedom to create?? It's their space, let them go all Picasso on that wall!</div>
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Not to mention, you get to look like the cool parent with extra amazing taste. So there's that.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_T0201x2HQN5SakbL4jzIJ9Zy9Imw9NYdOJxgYdltaOYvIZc5zY1lAakZ8LjoCJUQ5sgj6oInd0vkXBcy8Z3j4472A36kTiJKUGIwF0_shWVwl3VgZtMIuB7u2ReXHndVvGlXBDagA5X/s1600/e44ace5457ed56af87bc49f6bc34a1f0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr_T0201x2HQN5SakbL4jzIJ9Zy9Imw9NYdOJxgYdltaOYvIZc5zY1lAakZ8LjoCJUQ5sgj6oInd0vkXBcy8Z3j4472A36kTiJKUGIwF0_shWVwl3VgZtMIuB7u2ReXHndVvGlXBDagA5X/s1600/e44ace5457ed56af87bc49f6bc34a1f0.jpg" height="640" width="434" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://joannagoddard.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/new-little-darlings.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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Speaking of great taste, is there anything better than this animal wallpaper?</div>
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There are giraffs. There are birds. There are geckos... The entire animal kingdom is representing here, and the black and white almost makes it like a modern, and kid friendly toile, letting you play with color in the bedding and rugs.</div>
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Also don't get me started on the Little Darlings prints. They are so lovely I've almost ordered them multiple times for our place... and we don't have kids. They are just that cool.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw737kvkB5cCwhduT3rAgJhCk0d7Pb0qjYHMj_koqCEKUXPSoUeUtb7hH1Z6qzIWeZOPLYffpeLIktBPseqwKcZ6xBXBwzPqmUpwGfONDUiXt-8uCVJ0SAZ2HLG6L5InkzWdQKTw1Pt4vt/s1600/57e659a4e8119f24b7a9a976ee9bc389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw737kvkB5cCwhduT3rAgJhCk0d7Pb0qjYHMj_koqCEKUXPSoUeUtb7hH1Z6qzIWeZOPLYffpeLIktBPseqwKcZ6xBXBwzPqmUpwGfONDUiXt-8uCVJ0SAZ2HLG6L5InkzWdQKTw1Pt4vt/s1600/57e659a4e8119f24b7a9a976ee9bc389.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.hitherandthither.net/2014/04/home-living-room-dining-room.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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More little darlings framed in this room! And how hip are these walls (why do I feel so old and "not hip" using the word "hip"??)</div>
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Anyway, I'm not going to lie, this arrow print could be a little dizzying, but for the hippest of parents (omg, I need a new word other than hip, help me!), this would be really awesome. I'm not sure I'm cool enough for something like this (clearly), but I like it anyways. And I think it's good to have aspirational design. </div>
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Perhaps this is what our baby's fabulous nursery would look like in our southwestern adobe villa in Arizona one day. You know, for when we are alternating between Aspen, Hawaii, and the Southwest for the winter??</div>
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Actually, back to being serious for a second.... this is wallpaper in the photo, but I think you could totally replicate something like this with a stencil, or even a good eye and a steady freehand.</div>
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Just throwing it out there....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3fMHThSu_HPqDE7hTWdXsDCsBSnQa4OvKrgGGOrm5yOM_mxUflyZ8kVNUnxdhCh9jp_3W5pcTCFqmj9uT3j89XP8-Xfsqrmgd4T5GorzmCU-eXwtQ6DQgHgst7R-Dt3W_615Gqcjj4mx/s1600/d8e919d42255c26f568abdf2d201a994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3fMHThSu_HPqDE7hTWdXsDCsBSnQa4OvKrgGGOrm5yOM_mxUflyZ8kVNUnxdhCh9jp_3W5pcTCFqmj9uT3j89XP8-Xfsqrmgd4T5GorzmCU-eXwtQ6DQgHgst7R-Dt3W_615Gqcjj4mx/s1600/d8e919d42255c26f568abdf2d201a994.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.spearmintbaby.com/2011/10/4639/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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And then simply because I cannot resist its charm, the lovely swallow wallpaper again. It's just so sweet! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV54jX7tNrGU92uc6ZAzjAPpEqPkLJFW9s5H8OGf7ZW7hsY7dlM4UNzQZeOl-iyzGhDlH0ie-bh1qUGjUGu-78mpFy7cHEDDN1z4-QZcq5kWU3lt20bQ-n1yTOKEl_5Gb06haU75t6KIJG/s1600/179ee637b061976d9089b059c698bbe9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV54jX7tNrGU92uc6ZAzjAPpEqPkLJFW9s5H8OGf7ZW7hsY7dlM4UNzQZeOl-iyzGhDlH0ie-bh1qUGjUGu-78mpFy7cHEDDN1z4-QZcq5kWU3lt20bQ-n1yTOKEl_5Gb06haU75t6KIJG/s1600/179ee637b061976d9089b059c698bbe9.jpg" height="640" width="438" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.scandinaviandeko.com/app-ideas/?catid=43" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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And I know it's hidden down here at the bottom, but it doesn't make it less important. On the contrary, this birch wallpaper has been a LONGTIME favorite of mine. And it WILL be in my house one day. </div>
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Whether in a nursery or in our badass powder room, or walk-in closet. It will be mine. It's so chic. I never get sick of it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEWpAOQAbbF0kD_t1u9RjFHSH8fibHZ8PU5nDVpDdy0pcplsY2ociL3c887yVDCAdeIxHgmvVgvbKhvE_Gbj6P45ChuHpKtUqw22l9qO3M-IHkzorY3shO3JSaO4QYBmSm2KQZKBsMbLaN/s1600/6996d160d8465d5fe6f61d0aca90b702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEWpAOQAbbF0kD_t1u9RjFHSH8fibHZ8PU5nDVpDdy0pcplsY2ociL3c887yVDCAdeIxHgmvVgvbKhvE_Gbj6P45ChuHpKtUqw22l9qO3M-IHkzorY3shO3JSaO4QYBmSm2KQZKBsMbLaN/s1600/6996d160d8465d5fe6f61d0aca90b702.jpg" height="640" width="498" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://mermagblog.com/2013/04/30/cloud-room/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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And finally, how sweet are these clouds??</div>
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Another simple stencil idea on a simple grey wall. Yeah, that mom has good taste - that's what he's thinking too, as he's all cozied up on his bed, refusing to take a nap.</div>
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So what are your thoughts on statement walls and statement ceilings in a kids room?</div>
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I already know my mom's thoughts on the topic, and she's totally on board. </div>
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As kids, my sister and I had a room with rainbow wallpaper. It was so cheery and fun. Kind of perfect for a kids room, and let's be honest - if you can't be whimsical, and take some major risks and make a loud statement in a kid's room, where CAN you??</div>
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<i>Side note, I tried to find a similar wallpaper to the one we had in our room as little girls, and the result to a google search for "rainbow wallpaper" is a total throwback to Lisa Frank. To you 90's kids out there, you KNOW what I mean!</i></div>
Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-63604662338586660952014-12-30T10:18:00.000-08:002014-12-30T10:26:44.219-08:00Dining Room Updates and Holiday Touches<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBStJY6OQz21TQy_5FS4GoGkboQeQfNBEJs6l38Q1HRJ8-yij6DYgIEYZcomJoBb9EKNvOd6yvy64YEnhWUk8WQk8vJXaV7B5InTwFSHb1jgJ5yP6d23vDVFBhot9H2XZkpU0cRsnFE2B/s1600/IMG_6572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBStJY6OQz21TQy_5FS4GoGkboQeQfNBEJs6l38Q1HRJ8-yij6DYgIEYZcomJoBb9EKNvOd6yvy64YEnhWUk8WQk8vJXaV7B5InTwFSHb1jgJ5yP6d23vDVFBhot9H2XZkpU0cRsnFE2B/s1600/IMG_6572.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I realize that Christmas is over, but before the holiday decor comes down I wanted to share some pictures of our dining room all dolled up for December. </div>
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<a href="http://cuphalffull-sf.blogspot.com/2014/07/dining-room-updates.html" target="_blank">The last pictures I shared with you of our dining room</a> were quite a while ago, so we can treat this as a bit of a house tour as well to showcase some of the pretty little updates that have been made in here recently. For those of you too lazy to click back through that link, here's where the dining room had been:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_fpGTADez8hTCqnHJdMctXc8o-aT2acUayOHaYLjDqia2uFXLPzHPHhKFNsDVUBFgkApPYEc-yr-f4MUbFfu6LP_9bwl1-zb7cMYwHabylgj3bvfNRLVd08NPUI36MgpSNvxE1VJQL7i/s1600/IMG_6035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid_fpGTADez8hTCqnHJdMctXc8o-aT2acUayOHaYLjDqia2uFXLPzHPHhKFNsDVUBFgkApPYEc-yr-f4MUbFfu6LP_9bwl1-zb7cMYwHabylgj3bvfNRLVd08NPUI36MgpSNvxE1VJQL7i/s1600/IMG_6035.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was fine before, but there were lots of little things that bothered me. It wasn't 100% our taste, and it felt really busy to me. Kris loves modern things, so lots of pattern and color isn't up his alley. Myself, I'm drawn to more classic pieces, so the tribal rug - as much as I loved the blue - never felt right. To me, the combination of the shelves, with the color and pattern on the rug, with the block of black in the middle of the room was disjointed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixyeMlQwx8CLox7jOwGXiX-l3CyYaNqXv1nszB1TORcpmsVfQhIVTaERcD2s7qz0NtJByVK0VX6PANgwDjdSQTjyP8U1HjZf9IdSZ40U3Ke2KAsNMicKdVpLcz6xdHHTpdDZAD-db5Zlz0/s1600/dining+room+updates.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixyeMlQwx8CLox7jOwGXiX-l3CyYaNqXv1nszB1TORcpmsVfQhIVTaERcD2s7qz0NtJByVK0VX6PANgwDjdSQTjyP8U1HjZf9IdSZ40U3Ke2KAsNMicKdVpLcz6xdHHTpdDZAD-db5Zlz0/s1600/dining+room+updates.png" height="392" width="640" /></a></div>
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Aside from the rug, and the chairs around the table, you might wonder what else has changed...</div>
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Look closely at the walls. They're no longer full of holes, scuffs, and cracks (not that you could easily see that in any of the pictures, but trust me when I say that they'd seen better days). They got patched and painted! And it doesn't stop there. The peeling paint on the heater got sanded off, and primed and painted. Hallelujah!!</div>
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Between the fresh coat of paint, a second set of shelves on the left wall, the new rug, and the new chairs, this room went from feeling kind of chaotic and busy (to me), to completely calm. </div>
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Because the shelves take up the entire left wall of this room they make a big statement There is a lot going on - lots of color in the books, art and accessories. Take all that, and with the blue patterned rug, the art next to the shelves, and the gallery wall on the opposite side and there was just too much going on. Now, the room feels more balanced to me. Taking out the bold rug, and using muted tones throughout the entire room allows the bookshelves to shine, instead of competing with them.</div>
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Normally, I'm not one to go with all whites and greys and taupes in a room, but since the bookshelves are the focal point, I absolutely LOVE the monotone palate.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS4tBKtsoP0LJo7L3dg-3-iS4qhnQJY1LpT4noQo52F_A3ZSXGlaRlom7IsFVMw3Mecy0osPr9Cno4PU6Eauv2zK3DYAE5Sk66oUcTZ59mSEJ87C7vk3uW8hCL3W6mguAs5_zql1xEER6b/s1600/IMG_6576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS4tBKtsoP0LJo7L3dg-3-iS4qhnQJY1LpT4noQo52F_A3ZSXGlaRlom7IsFVMw3Mecy0osPr9Cno4PU6Eauv2zK3DYAE5Sk66oUcTZ59mSEJ87C7vk3uW8hCL3W6mguAs5_zql1xEER6b/s1600/IMG_6576.JPG" height="640" width="416" /></a></div>
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Can I just take a second to tell you how much I love our new dining room chairs??<br />
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These are the <a href="http://www.worldmarket.com/product/linen-lydia-dining-chair-set-of-2.do" target="_blank">Lydia chairs from World Market</a> and they are an absolute steal for the quality. Super plush padded seats, nice tight tufting, sturdy frame, and individually hammered nail heads trimming out each of the seat backs. There is good support, and they are really comfortable. Aside from the positive practical aspects, they are so pretty. The linen and the nailhead is such a natural marriage together, and the tufting just sort of puts them over the top for me. In a good way :-)<br />
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I especially love that the nailhead runs around the sides and back, so that when they're tucked into the table, you still get that great detail.<br />
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It's love.<br />
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You'll notice peeking out behind these chairs are two mini Christmas trees. Tree twins in the dining room.<br />
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Since I work from home a lot, it's been so nice to have the holiday decor spreading into this space as well as our living room. The trees in here, along with stars, ornaments, and garlands are all from Ikea. The ornaments in here are actually the same ones I'd used in <a href="http://cuphalffull-sf.blogspot.com/2014/12/holiday-fireplace-and-diy-garland.html" target="_blank">the garland in our living room</a>. I really like the continuity from one room to the next - especially as these spaces are open to one another.<br />
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I once read in House Beautiful that one secret to making a small home feel bigger is to use the same color palate in every room. I have never forgotten that, and ever since focusing the colors in our house to grey, black, white, tan, gold, and various shades of blue, it really has made it seem bigger. Keeping the green and gold going in here from the living room makes it feel less busy, even though we have two relatively tall, fully decorated Christmas trees in a not-that-big space.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnu630JJYC-PqZL12A9JLZcqV2v3qnXMBccWZdG8MkH0yHtV1hvIG-dwERdjiJif1jR3yGqYjDNkOtZsyvwqtEM5xWh4QySqE9WnnJiGZdxMWuXaZLRLkMY3yXebiraLwnL2KX0f3jPaTH/s1600/IMG_6570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnu630JJYC-PqZL12A9JLZcqV2v3qnXMBccWZdG8MkH0yHtV1hvIG-dwERdjiJif1jR3yGqYjDNkOtZsyvwqtEM5xWh4QySqE9WnnJiGZdxMWuXaZLRLkMY3yXebiraLwnL2KX0f3jPaTH/s1600/IMG_6570.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHmVfz6xBhnc7CHJI81vpABNncLTKwXne70i9zCi8AFVxyZIxdsOeiqdl66Wvb7Y4svywIAdO511eTMVfHEkRUr0vTa8Y7EPZFCmDB1gPvRg5a7YL47oT7wjKty5eA7fbwkvrVJMVEG-y/s1600/IMG_6578.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHmVfz6xBhnc7CHJI81vpABNncLTKwXne70i9zCi8AFVxyZIxdsOeiqdl66Wvb7Y4svywIAdO511eTMVfHEkRUr0vTa8Y7EPZFCmDB1gPvRg5a7YL47oT7wjKty5eA7fbwkvrVJMVEG-y/s1600/IMG_6578.JPG" height="640" width="420" /></a></div>
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The tree's themselves were really easy to put together, and from a glance look pretty realistic. I love that the branches are spaced out. It gives off that sort of sparse look that I've always admired in Nordic holiday design.<br />
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Not sure what I mean? You can see some good examples of that sparse, minimalistic type of tree <a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/19/02/35/190235ef4fc0fb22f9a3ed74f53ff6e5.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>, <a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ce/98/1e/ce981e95146309f5adc62a0914189e09.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>, and <a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/80/10/da/8010da604e372eaaf646748f1a453bd0.jpg" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1K4jr1TY_NuwQcMZV4xZ9uYkoNsaMvWaHJScV1KI2_j_ulT2A-5TSkq3yb6JrFWvQGTAAOQqcIjEB6OtWQHEXtywuxAt_banSIQF4M8KCz0-9cKiqOW87GaBderA8TjFCQmogEC_bEvPK/s1600/IMG_6588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1K4jr1TY_NuwQcMZV4xZ9uYkoNsaMvWaHJScV1KI2_j_ulT2A-5TSkq3yb6JrFWvQGTAAOQqcIjEB6OtWQHEXtywuxAt_banSIQF4M8KCz0-9cKiqOW87GaBderA8TjFCQmogEC_bEvPK/s1600/IMG_6588.JPG" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
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Up close, I loved that the ornaments ranged in tone from gold, to copper, to a pale frosted pink (shh don't tell Kris). I also loved that they are made of plastic, so they were light as a feather, and didn't weigh down the branches at all.<br />
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Not sure if you noticed, but there is also a fairly large white ceramic deer head on our wine rack. <a href="http://cuphalffull-sf.blogspot.com/2013/12/its-winter-wonderland-in-our-hallway.html" target="_blank">He made an appearance last year in our "winter wonderland" of a hallway</a>, but this year, he looks so at home in between these trees.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyrR5SNakX4xM-5QhqMNQJKehesDauQWAUM4P3QGdTvCFRwm0vOso3lurDFQrpfirwivi-wUmWPjo-wrPPfAA86SRItKJwy2gtBHpdcyHAUNKSFS40oS160PM-VxQu2vrqYhMvP3VXJL63/s1600/IMG_6589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyrR5SNakX4xM-5QhqMNQJKehesDauQWAUM4P3QGdTvCFRwm0vOso3lurDFQrpfirwivi-wUmWPjo-wrPPfAA86SRItKJwy2gtBHpdcyHAUNKSFS40oS160PM-VxQu2vrqYhMvP3VXJL63/s1600/IMG_6589.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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Also, notice the "tree skirts"? They're from Ikea too.</div>
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They actually aren't tree skirts at all - they are just the mini Sheepskin Rugs wrapped around the tree base, but I love how soft they are, and how they totally go with the mono-tone color palate of this room. I could only find the <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/30229077/" target="_blank">faux sheepskin's online</a>, but if you can, get the real ones. They drape so much better than the fake ones, and are SO SOFT. Huge bargain too. Something like $25. <a href="http://cuphalffull-sf.blogspot.com/2013/12/chic-sheepskin.html" target="_blank">I've had ours for a little over a year now</a> - I like draping them over the backs of our not to comfortable wicker chairs for a little extra cushion, but for the holidays, they are serving as tree skirts in the dining room. #makethemostofwhatyouhave</div>
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Let's talk about the new rug for a moment...</div>
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Hellloooooo loverrrrr!</div>
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Unsurprisingly, I agonized over the decision to sell our blue rug and get something else for way too long. I was never 100% happy with the blue one - it was always just a little too small for the room, and a little more "Aztec" than I'd been anticipating, which felt kind of forced in our more traditional dining room - so when RugsUSA had another huge sale over Labor Day (yes, that long ago) I decided it was time to make a change. <br />
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I thought about another natural fiber rug since we've had such a great experience with our other ones so far, but worried it would be too bland. I looked at rugs <a href="http://cuphalffull-sf.blogspot.com/2013/08/updated-living-room-photos.html" target="_blank">similar to the one we had in our old living room (it now lives in our bedroom)</a> but didn't want another trellis pattern that competed with the bold navy trellis runner we had in the hallway.<br />
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I ended up finding the <a href="http://www.rugsusa.com/rugsusa/rugs/rugs-usa-kambal-moroccan-trellis/silver/200AKMA2B-508.html" target="_blank">Tanger Kambal Moroccan Trellis rug</a> from RugsUSA, and while I liked it online, I was still waffling a bit on my decision against a natural fiber. Ultimately, I ended up ordering it since it was on sale for 75% off, but I second guessed my decision up until the day it arrived. All I can say is THANK GOD I just pulled the trigger, because I absolutely love everything about it. <br />
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It's hard to tell from these photos, but the print is a light grey quatrefoil on a cream background. It's a bit bigger than the old one, soft as a freshly washed golden retriever puppy, and it has a really pretty sheen. Depending on which way the nap is laying, the color changes. For instance, if I'm in the living room looking at the dining room, it kind of looks like an all white flokatti rug, but as you walk closer, you realize there's a pattern in it. I just LOVE that.<br />
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One person complained online that the grey was more taupe in real life than the silver depicted online. She is right, however that is one of my favorite parts about it. It's a color that can only be described as "greige". It's not grey, but it's not beige. It's somewhere in the middle which is preferable in my opinion. It means that we won't be tied to grey or tan in whatever room it finds itself in in the future.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibLWrgv1i_Ukp4Gd3WzaDONKkM1D0iK3CXKHauieyNxRSGmbjkV312_o4E2Yey7UiZIO6xFBa6u2q2zjit8GAfREw3NIEKhGUmyt8S6zlTcjwHNaLaDawjVdM3FHVW9i9-PSilqd1ajhJJ/s1600/IMG_6623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibLWrgv1i_Ukp4Gd3WzaDONKkM1D0iK3CXKHauieyNxRSGmbjkV312_o4E2Yey7UiZIO6xFBa6u2q2zjit8GAfREw3NIEKhGUmyt8S6zlTcjwHNaLaDawjVdM3FHVW9i9-PSilqd1ajhJJ/s1600/IMG_6623.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anyway, back to Christmas decor...<br />
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Here's a close up of the fake tree branch... looks pretty good, eh? Also forgot the mention before that the branches are moldable. They must have wire in them, so you can bend them a bit to look less perfect and more real. <br />
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Notice how you can see me in my jammies in the reflection of that ornament? Ha! No judgement! I actually took these pictures during a power outage, when San Francisco was pretty much shut down from a major storm. What else would one be wearing other than jammies???<br />
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And here we are looking back at the bookshelves. I'd already posted about the one on the right, but the shelves on the left weren't there yet last time I wrote about our dining room. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimraRxODWTDjGyW-YizMio0yEtzdmIdqOG-bIjZ-kHGdtsgtarhnCiSu0VT_SClNUmvXVWDS8hxxpfvjp9_boJDT72rcLVQfvYZOg67R-wsNXkPsbU3YSEiMuvyhDe7405mI4V8eROX4RQ/s1600/IMG_6598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimraRxODWTDjGyW-YizMio0yEtzdmIdqOG-bIjZ-kHGdtsgtarhnCiSu0VT_SClNUmvXVWDS8hxxpfvjp9_boJDT72rcLVQfvYZOg67R-wsNXkPsbU3YSEiMuvyhDe7405mI4V8eROX4RQ/s1600/IMG_6598.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Here's how this wall used to look:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv8OLbXAvkHQfWxjdTejNE4w2PHexMetw8fi_vtO3z8dLWk4cuHGyjpD3WIoaRQzLM6NS5qgE7E22fUarykBo_0q3ka4C21hEm6ihv6KM2Laq1CbM1heSTmn_rrlTJTUUreuaoLe37rtua/s1600/IMG_6042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv8OLbXAvkHQfWxjdTejNE4w2PHexMetw8fi_vtO3z8dLWk4cuHGyjpD3WIoaRQzLM6NS5qgE7E22fUarykBo_0q3ka4C21hEm6ihv6KM2Laq1CbM1heSTmn_rrlTJTUUreuaoLe37rtua/s1600/IMG_6042.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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It actually makes a HUGE difference in this room now to have the double sets of shelves - it never felt balanced to me with the painting next to it. After a few days I knew I'd need to stain a second set of shelves stat, otherwise it would drive me bonkers.</div>
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Also, notice in the picture above how ragged the heater looks with the peeling paint? Sanding that off and re-coating it with heat resistant primer and paint has made one of the biggest changes to me. That peeling paint drove me absolutely nuts for the last year, so I'm happy to be able to point out how much better it's looking!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98248abJcqu232oMv1BcurDxEdFb1qMIDfjq6zUkxXjLh7UB8NfJHWKa5jE-6udPDQNC8K_cLRB-rxByLGAzC4lBPk4MPTPGYzQhArhGkqk-_mv4g3N0e5Gsj7eLCjgmU8s_urURx6sCL/s1600/IMG_6616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98248abJcqu232oMv1BcurDxEdFb1qMIDfjq6zUkxXjLh7UB8NfJHWKa5jE-6udPDQNC8K_cLRB-rxByLGAzC4lBPk4MPTPGYzQhArhGkqk-_mv4g3N0e5Gsj7eLCjgmU8s_urURx6sCL/s1600/IMG_6616.JPG" height="640" width="418" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibJz4radBP5juN7RqJd_LG0a7JLhrMrjNyZwSxxVyQ4Xn8DI0tqHG2zMuQJLt3XvghlB637tax8erSGvpza17EJjSNMjroNBOc5BUXQsLIYU6KKc5XMxgNfG1o5panyfApm9O4mMTlPy-/s1600/IMG_6617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibJz4radBP5juN7RqJd_LG0a7JLhrMrjNyZwSxxVyQ4Xn8DI0tqHG2zMuQJLt3XvghlB637tax8erSGvpza17EJjSNMjroNBOc5BUXQsLIYU6KKc5XMxgNfG1o5panyfApm9O4mMTlPy-/s1600/IMG_6617.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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And here's a peek at the other side of the room - our pretty painting has space to breathe over there, and really shines now that it's not crowded by other stuff.<br />
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It just feels really calm and pretty.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpmM1ylH98DUGxD58VJbMMAkVmcwgKUWo9RS7N7POdSKPNI9y_169EX7IFnmxUdDuu20MCt2NkiiRSBkSFiU-ubea_Zsx_E8gwDCs55oZhvBPOOKgZ32wQEj36gI_8S435UtGpcrKFQ_-/s1600/IMG_6633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpmM1ylH98DUGxD58VJbMMAkVmcwgKUWo9RS7N7POdSKPNI9y_169EX7IFnmxUdDuu20MCt2NkiiRSBkSFiU-ubea_Zsx_E8gwDCs55oZhvBPOOKgZ32wQEj36gI_8S435UtGpcrKFQ_-/s1600/IMG_6633.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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And there's nothing like fresh flowers to make a room feel pulled together...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigY0fz0Ja2nnM03ahrbZgwpo4OpXejkjsAftw_SreH0dNDFkxypY42BopxgAjK-YzQoPKUBrdTqCTzXEOuLvVOAQ0N_zTOItS9vjOSYLvV8fMljGpoexc50idxBRVOJOdz0kvROHD0ND9w/s1600/IMG_6636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigY0fz0Ja2nnM03ahrbZgwpo4OpXejkjsAftw_SreH0dNDFkxypY42BopxgAjK-YzQoPKUBrdTqCTzXEOuLvVOAQ0N_zTOItS9vjOSYLvV8fMljGpoexc50idxBRVOJOdz0kvROHD0ND9w/s1600/IMG_6636.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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Not that I'm an expert in arranging flowers, but I've found a few little tricks that promise a knockout bouquet every time.<br />
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Stick to a single color palate (mixing colors can get tricky, so staying with one color - all red, all white, all blue and purple, guarantee that it <strike>won't turn out looking like a hot mess</strike> will look more professional once it's finished). <br />
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Group flowers in an arrangement by type. This is optional, but I find I like the look better, and find more success when I group flowers this way. Keep the large fluffy flowers together, fill in blank spots and edges with smaller fluffy flowers, fill in sparse edges with groups of smaller skinnier stalks. For instance right now, I've got two hydrangia's grouped together taking up 1/3 of the bouquet, three extra fluffy mums together taking up another 1/3 of the arrangement, and a few stalks of snapdragons taking up the last third - all white. And it just works.<br />
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Let the flowers drape as they would in real life. Tulips want to fall over all loosey goosey. Let them. They are rarely going to stand up straight, so pick a vase that will accentuate them draping over the side. Don't try to force a flower to do something it wouldn't normally. These are wise words from the Barefoot Contessa.<br />
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Cut the stems short. This isn't a hard and fast rule - if you get long stemmed roses from your honey, keep them long - but I find that arranging shorter stems turns out a more professional looking arrangement every time.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9JK8sgOm0QUnMKMhfQI4EVF3S2eTEJsNfZybgeu2A7pQrci6Y9MZ4c_ErWRGjhBU1JTBRU0Gm_rzieidpddh5obI0rvvGPHhPiB-0FHgnaDnGeGU7-R9CpsOf-tM5SSXTfW58eOrXFWN6/s1600/IMG_6613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9JK8sgOm0QUnMKMhfQI4EVF3S2eTEJsNfZybgeu2A7pQrci6Y9MZ4c_ErWRGjhBU1JTBRU0Gm_rzieidpddh5obI0rvvGPHhPiB-0FHgnaDnGeGU7-R9CpsOf-tM5SSXTfW58eOrXFWN6/s1600/IMG_6613.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Do you guys have any tips on arranging flowers? I would love to know!<br />
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Taking a closer look at the shelves, you'll notice that I didn't go wild with Christmas Decor, but I did nestle in a few of my seasonal favorites... here, a few ornaments behind that handsome deer statue.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ2kfK-QBaQe8H19yryfxmrpc3r2tXvx7UvYUXKAwIIVurdTNjPd5yOLns4pt3acmdhEWbGD_p3iBC4wS4CyJBzNjZDZyuDEXK2pWeba1cGnZi_sr1Wla95XXblah8_A38G0EWbDEJXRMD/s1600/IMG_6637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ2kfK-QBaQe8H19yryfxmrpc3r2tXvx7UvYUXKAwIIVurdTNjPd5yOLns4pt3acmdhEWbGD_p3iBC4wS4CyJBzNjZDZyuDEXK2pWeba1cGnZi_sr1Wla95XXblah8_A38G0EWbDEJXRMD/s1600/IMG_6637.JPG" height="640" width="416" /></a></div>
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The below looks especially wintery, but actually the only addition here was the snowflake... the owl is a year round staple, as is that antler candle holder, but it does help that the coral is white to round out this little vignette.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKwSY25Dgcgh1OafEgVXvAM18nRSyCsNxxxPtSUGERuJbf96341JOFC85Dv6-_gXSKxazt-g1NCByrrlB9Ps-tL4-9wgUVOSxNeNSyT_oJkzouE9wGEwm6mpvkam_FwIhqolfpCXINvI_v/s1600/IMG_6639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKwSY25Dgcgh1OafEgVXvAM18nRSyCsNxxxPtSUGERuJbf96341JOFC85Dv6-_gXSKxazt-g1NCByrrlB9Ps-tL4-9wgUVOSxNeNSyT_oJkzouE9wGEwm6mpvkam_FwIhqolfpCXINvI_v/s1600/IMG_6639.JPG" height="418" width="640" /></a></div>
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All my old music boxes get a special place up here in December. They are fragile, but I love them so much.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga9kPuQ7KaNKJ5CTXJRfVkRxoiL1v190KKyS1O47Y-NjiE0_4ZfRJFMyJF_1pBb_dY78GDMRr0TbfzAzKHPlb1l6WgO4NfOvjXlRkTwI0ayytPI05BXsh0hUgPDbUit7dc9tLI9jN2xHgj/s1600/IMG_6643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga9kPuQ7KaNKJ5CTXJRfVkRxoiL1v190KKyS1O47Y-NjiE0_4ZfRJFMyJF_1pBb_dY78GDMRr0TbfzAzKHPlb1l6WgO4NfOvjXlRkTwI0ayytPI05BXsh0hUgPDbUit7dc9tLI9jN2xHgj/s1600/IMG_6643.JPG" height="418" width="640" /></a></div>
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These garlands were really inexpensive from Michaels, and while I'm not hugely fond of the glitter, they look really nice woven across the top of the shelves.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ZamBP_gRJt-ZesYE4E6KGiiWhAVGajmp6n2OCa3FCXSBQMM1fDklNQvcvuxJr_cEnS7ncpM8D1B4yEFi1cHN5vvuatuPkjoNC3qXT-EEfrnVuAaLxYpe8fhogusCpTubEQmnfGnoBQi6/s1600/IMG_6646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ZamBP_gRJt-ZesYE4E6KGiiWhAVGajmp6n2OCa3FCXSBQMM1fDklNQvcvuxJr_cEnS7ncpM8D1B4yEFi1cHN5vvuatuPkjoNC3qXT-EEfrnVuAaLxYpe8fhogusCpTubEQmnfGnoBQi6/s1600/IMG_6646.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Oh hello, inappropriate singing Santa! <br />
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All I'll say is that his guitar mysteriously disappeared (Kristopher! Ahem!) and his hand that was supposed to be strumming the guitar looked like it was doing something else. Oh my.<br />
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After he was scolded for hiding the guitar, Santa is back to being "G" rated.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEhlFcEPbp62YHRAvlgTUO5vA9eO96pk9WNYs19B-gutv60cskbOrWWaxSKcil2wt1ZgyW92Q_wLeqEzOfNOZaxKb9C5FeGI-U24p1TxqKaLbfjvFwPMPaqfIpZqEy7EVWL10CqKhiOJ8H/s1600/IMG_6652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEhlFcEPbp62YHRAvlgTUO5vA9eO96pk9WNYs19B-gutv60cskbOrWWaxSKcil2wt1ZgyW92Q_wLeqEzOfNOZaxKb9C5FeGI-U24p1TxqKaLbfjvFwPMPaqfIpZqEy7EVWL10CqKhiOJ8H/s1600/IMG_6652.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a><br />
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So that's the updates in our dining room - in life, and for the holidays!</div>
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There are a few more updates I'd like to make in this space, but I'm really happy with how the dining room has transformed so far. With our wedding this summer, I think my focus will likely turn to that this next year, and changes around the house will really slow down, but we've come so far in just 11 months.</div>
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I'll be posting a 2014 recap, and can't wait to get all the before and after pictures together for that. Looking back through some older posts really illustrates how far we've come.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtHBMrfYHLK0NTHESIQ4dEG5Yy4DE_HfHgRHT0SPESyadOFZNjI9fngfMhtM_DeNuQm3OC5ISh7D9rPJmGAEis9yjf0XSPN3JJZr5ts5BnhcK3nfin4nBQ5vNxnGrJN3PNEVQJuNJxadWF/s1600/IMG_6574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtHBMrfYHLK0NTHESIQ4dEG5Yy4DE_HfHgRHT0SPESyadOFZNjI9fngfMhtM_DeNuQm3OC5ISh7D9rPJmGAEis9yjf0XSPN3JJZr5ts5BnhcK3nfin4nBQ5vNxnGrJN3PNEVQJuNJxadWF/s1600/IMG_6574.JPG" height="640" width="430" /></a></div>
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I will also say, I've been really trying to focus on the quality of the photographs I've been taking. I broke out my tripod that had never been used, and I think that really helped. I also was playing around with the settings to make sure that the light from the windows didn't blow out the images as badly as they had in the past. I wanted to see the drapes, the trees, and the dining table. Not one or the other.</div>
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I'm learning! Slowly, but I'm learning. Hoping the pictures continue to improve!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBStJY6OQz21TQy_5FS4GoGkboQeQfNBEJs6l38Q1HRJ8-yij6DYgIEYZcomJoBb9EKNvOd6yvy64YEnhWUk8WQk8vJXaV7B5InTwFSHb1jgJ5yP6d23vDVFBhot9H2XZkpU0cRsnFE2B/s1600/IMG_6572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBStJY6OQz21TQy_5FS4GoGkboQeQfNBEJs6l38Q1HRJ8-yij6DYgIEYZcomJoBb9EKNvOd6yvy64YEnhWUk8WQk8vJXaV7B5InTwFSHb1jgJ5yP6d23vDVFBhot9H2XZkpU0cRsnFE2B/s1600/IMG_6572.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anyway, hope you all enjoyed! We've now gone through updates in the living room and the dining room. What's next? The bedroom - it's not all THAT exciting and different from our old bedroom, but we do have some new bedding in there that I'm excited to share with you all.<br />
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What are your thoughts on our dining room updates? Of the rug? The new chairs? The second set of shelves?<br />
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Would love to know!<br />
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xoxoBeckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-48335093771501818122014-12-15T09:00:00.000-08:002014-12-15T09:00:05.879-08:00Holiday Fireplace and a DIY Garland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Are you guys ready for some holiday house updates?????????</div>
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Let's dive right in!<br />
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The fireplace is the center of our living room, and an obvious focal point to decorate for the holidays. I was so excited to be able to string up garlands, and doll it up this year since our old apartment didn't have a central focal point in the living room. Everything was centered around our TV which was practical, but not the most attractive option.<br />
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As stoked as I was to decorate the fireplace, I REALLLLLLYYYYYYY wish that it had a mantle. If you look closely, you'll notice that it's a flat facade, surrounded by a piece of crown molding, so there's no spot for long beautiful taper candles, leaning art, or cool decorative accents like that on top of it.<br />
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I've spent many hours scheming about how to create a mantle here, but with the fireplace being completely surrounded on all sides by a slab of mirror, it just won't work... unless I dare risk 7 years bad luck by breaking it... which I'm not down for. Sometimes we just have to make do with what we've got.... right?? Kind of the story of my life, but let's be honest - I'm just happy to have a fireplace to decorate this year!<br />
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When I lived here before, I always loved how we strung a pre-lighted garland across the fireplace, but after digging that garland out of storage it was looking pretty sad. It was all smushed, and had little (if any) resemblance to real greenery. Imagine <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/400/ba/ba43ad7c-c838-4c78-a539-102e4da32735_400.jpg" target="_blank">something like this</a>... but faded, and flattened after being stored in a box for several years....<br />
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It was time to find a new game plan for our mantle - I loved the idea of a garland, but wanted it to be super full, and really eye-catching. And what would be more eye-catching than a bunch of gold ornaments strung together and wound up with fairy lights and greenery?? This garland DIY is super easy to pull together, so for anyone looking for a fun holiday project, this is the one for you! In fact, the more wine you drink while working on it, the better.<br />
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May I present to you our Gold and Green(ery) Garland. It's two separate garlands woven together to make one massive, awesome, holiday focal point. It's sparkly - especially once the garland is plugged in at night - and a little over the top but I'm totally in love with it.<br />
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The ornament garland was a DIY project I worked on one afternoon while catching up on bad reality TV. Nothing to get you in the holiday spirit than watching the Kardashian's bicker.<br />
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I actually tested it out last year on a smaller garland that we now have hanging in the kitchen (yep, even the kitchen got a little holiday love in 2014), and making it is soooo easy. <a href="http://www.cuphalffull-sf.blogspot.com/2012/12/ornament-garland-diy.html" target="_blank">Look back at this post for the original instructions</a>, but there isn't much to explain. </div>
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Basically you need to start with a TON of ornaments - do not use glass. They WILL shatter. I used 4 boxes of plastic balls in assorted gold tones from Ikea... LOVE the Ikea holiday section this year. They win the award for "best everything". More on them later... back to the DIY.</div>
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Start with tons of balls {insert joke here}.</div>
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Get your hands on a long strand of thick wire. Ribbon might work but I like that the wire forms to the shape you want.</div>
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Sting balls onto wire while accidentally drinking the better part of a bottle of wine and watching trashy TV.</div>
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Here's what you'll end up with:</div>
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Super technical DIY project *wink wink*</div>
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Once I had all the ornaments strung on the wire, it was time to hunt down a pretty green garland to replace our sad looking one.</div>
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I wanted one that was hefty, and that looked natural (at least somewhat). I looked into ordering a fresh garland for about two-seconds until realizing fresh garlands in SF ran about $160. Um, no thanks. </div>
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Off to Michael's I went (with my coupon of course) and scored this beauty for something like $25. I think without the 40% off coupon it was in the high $30 range. Still, not bad for a lighted green 9' garland with pine cones interspersed and several types of faux greens in the mix.</div>
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Once I got the green garland home, I wound the two garlands around one another, and secured them to the wood molding around the fireplace with two small nails, and more of the wire that I'd used to string the ornaments.<br />
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The nails will leave the smallest of holes, and will be easy to conceal with wood putty, and a coat of white paint.<br />
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Another new addition to our holiday fireplace, is this starburst mirror.</div>
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<a href="http://cuphalffull-sf.blogspot.com/2013/11/splurge-or-save-starburst-mirror.html" target="_blank">I love a good starburst</a> - we have one hanging over our bed as well - but this is one of the best finds of my shopping career... EVER. <br />
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Such a score!<br />
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I consider myself to be a pretty serious bargain hunter - not on the same level as those crazy extreme couponers, but I take the sale sections seriously. As I was at the Home Depot over the weekend, wandering the aisles in search of a ceiling medallion (another story for another day), I found myself in the aisle with decorative moldings, hollow core doors, and what else... mirrors!<br />
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Easily distracted, I ventured over to the mirrors, and there, hanging on the wall was a mirror <a href="http://cuphalffull-sf.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-mirror-that-got-away.html" target="_blank">very similar to this one</a> that I've been trying to hunt down!! It was a bit smaller than I'd wanted, but I was intrigued. I picked up the box below the sample mirror, and guess what? It a box for a completely different mirror. A sunburst mirror. <br />
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A sunburst mirror that was marked down to $6.<br />
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SIX DOLLARS.<br />
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I cannot make this stuff up.<br />
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I grabbed that box so fast, and was out of there before anyone could fight me for my $6 mirror.<br />
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Not only was it SIX DOLLARS (which I still cannot wrap my mind around), but it was bigger than the octagonal mirror I was originally admiring, and it fills out this space above the fireplace so well.<br />
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Here she is close-up - isn't she pretty??</div>
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I also love that the center of the sunburst is convex, so it sort of distorts the reflection. Very cool.<br />
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It was a Christmas miracle actually. I've been agonizing over what to hang here for a while. The empty expanse of mirrors above and on the sides of the fireplace felt really 80's to me. </div>
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On the one hand, all these mirrors make the room feel larger, but with no mantle above the fireplace to lean art on, place picture frames, flowers, branches... basically anything to draw the eye up, and compliment the spot above the fireplace, it was just so empty. It needed something.</div>
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I toyed with the idea of trying to hang a large piece of art here, but wasn't loving that idea. Every time I had Kris hold something up there it just felt odd. I also toyed with the idea of hanging a mirror over here, but never found the right thing </div>
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I am so thrilled with how this looks but I'm not completely sold on the ribbon that secures it to a nail above the mirror. For now, with the holidays, it's fine, but I'm not sure if the ribbon will stay - perhaps a string of clear fishing wire or something similar would be best, so it looks more like it's mounted to the mirror, and less like it's dangling from above.</div>
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Surprisingly enough, Kris is on board with the ribbon, so if we do keep it, I won't have to worry about his complaints.</div>
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Also in the living room are several wrapped presents - I like to get them wrapped and under the tree as early as possible since they just add to the festive feel. I'm liking the simple feel of this brown paper, and bold ribbon, and a sprig of douglas fir finishes it off so nicely! And guess what... the branches were free! I may or may not have been scavenging the discard bins at the Christmas Tree Tent at Home Depot, but it's fair game! The guys working the saws at the tree lot confirmed that these branches that get stripped from the bottoms of the trees are headed to the chipper at the end of the day, so I see it more as rescuing them.</div>
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And how awesome is that red cardinal ribbon?? Michaels was having 60% off their ribbon over the weekend, so 25 yards of this stuff was $3. Yes please!! Red cardinals and festive tartan ribbon for everyone!!!<br />
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I've been spoiling myself this year with fresh flowers only in the house, and have found that I can make hydrangeas last for a solid month, if I take care of them JUST right. I made this arrangement feel a bit more holiday-like with the addition of woodsy greenery, and some cool burgundy branches.</div>
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Apparently hydrangeas like HOT water, with a little bleach. Cut the stems vertically so they can soak up as much water through their woody stem, and they are good to go. I learned this little trick from an episode of the Barefoot Contessa, and I never forgot it! Just change the water out once a week, they tend to last and last and last. </div>
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I think my record was 7 weeks of keeping a cut hydrangea alive. #impressive</div>
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So that's our holiday mantle fireplace! More festive updates coming your way soon, but the whole house got decked out - there's a tree, an inappropriate Santa, and a really festive dining room still to share!</div>
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Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-21793829851022806672014-12-11T09:00:00.000-08:002014-12-11T09:00:04.369-08:00A Green and Gold Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm in the process of photographing and posting some of the holiday decor we've got up in our house, but wanted to share where I was pulling my inspiration from this year...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIikk2J_0arv89FwAtpukwux4fcyKpXqEHZJPU_DpX4z99rosE4YJzF9v_vE82p1hc5EI6vAICD5WjWmNBycMVXZN8yk4WSsONA-06htm5QDIfxu6xc5sFjItrfiewvx0gGTUQH8B_f60A/s1600/03d0633fff89533dc5aafa8d649e6e08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIikk2J_0arv89FwAtpukwux4fcyKpXqEHZJPU_DpX4z99rosE4YJzF9v_vE82p1hc5EI6vAICD5WjWmNBycMVXZN8yk4WSsONA-06htm5QDIfxu6xc5sFjItrfiewvx0gGTUQH8B_f60A/s1600/03d0633fff89533dc5aafa8d649e6e08.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lifeonvirginiastreet.com/2014/12/wednesday-watch-list-13/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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Green and gold baby!</div>
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I'm loving the look of the overabundance of greens in the forms of wreaths, greenery in vases, swags of greens and garlands on stairwells (which we don't have), across fireplaces (which we DO have), and everywhere in-between.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLn-fOjMXk62oATgVpQdWo_AjB4YQzzlUtFZ4keWRgBK2IlRb4Z1C4ts8KpE52qLTSsNxyYzMX0_baWsV4-G_TndzQuy7RJJmR0cm_EWDN4yxuEPZrT7f-x4YEH9OrvQUDrwNnHC2JLcS/s1600/6d1ccd078df24319dfbec560d2851a8e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLn-fOjMXk62oATgVpQdWo_AjB4YQzzlUtFZ4keWRgBK2IlRb4Z1C4ts8KpE52qLTSsNxyYzMX0_baWsV4-G_TndzQuy7RJJmR0cm_EWDN4yxuEPZrT7f-x4YEH9OrvQUDrwNnHC2JLcS/s1600/6d1ccd078df24319dfbec560d2851a8e.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.copycatchic.com/2013/11/copy-cat-chic-giveaway-treetopia.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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If it's crusted in gold, or glitter, or both, chances are I want it.</div>
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I just think that the combination of the greenery with all the gold is just so pretty with all the twinkle lights, and I think it adds a bit of glam to what could otherwise really be a rustic, woodsy look.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT82nKbr4Zudp-2lYkNnQo_lY8qwUGr1D7vOzK0d8K3fqHU77CXaEXLpbso0DwqCAnYAdbIEbOdJhlWV08GT4pyLPLKzXLqKXJ48wRFhi-W3m8EI6u32opw-kCe5iAFo0zBeIlE3wPYxAM/s1600/9589fdc7ad5076afc1fbaa10486c7a5d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT82nKbr4Zudp-2lYkNnQo_lY8qwUGr1D7vOzK0d8K3fqHU77CXaEXLpbso0DwqCAnYAdbIEbOdJhlWV08GT4pyLPLKzXLqKXJ48wRFhi-W3m8EI6u32opw-kCe5iAFo0zBeIlE3wPYxAM/s1600/9589fdc7ad5076afc1fbaa10486c7a5d.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bhg.com/christmas/indoor-decorating/20-shiny-ways-to-decorate-with-ornaments/#page=12" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq2jZWhyWxiVigVQph75m-s2INl8UbTFsZBMO_khVdOr3a-d3OA7fmJjFYiC4wwUWSzE-yaPDnOhxFN0CzKD_2McIZszYGZ7jHUZ-rPn-kiFKUZLaw514aryT1lSPTyT_nqoxz179hzrad/s1600/f111819c2758ef25c9e90ea5e1794fdc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq2jZWhyWxiVigVQph75m-s2INl8UbTFsZBMO_khVdOr3a-d3OA7fmJjFYiC4wwUWSzE-yaPDnOhxFN0CzKD_2McIZszYGZ7jHUZ-rPn-kiFKUZLaw514aryT1lSPTyT_nqoxz179hzrad/s1600/f111819c2758ef25c9e90ea5e1794fdc.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bhg.com/christmas/trees/traditional-christmas-trees/?rb=Y#page=10" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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I mean how amazing is that tree, and that entryway, and that staircase, and that garland?!?! My future house in the Hamptons will look JUST like this at the holidays :-)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKsSQDKEEIg-4k7aQwGplBZWkXM4nD5y_Mid3ts2BzPwxW1RcEctcRx9SDg9w4MtPEovBfMwmB9Eob-kamn6iU1Ib1so6-27rHnMQr9ErQWfePCU-0h2QzQkaPca4enZHz6NTDZWHj0E0n/s1600/02c99d3c7dcf98f8ed35cccab18abf0b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKsSQDKEEIg-4k7aQwGplBZWkXM4nD5y_Mid3ts2BzPwxW1RcEctcRx9SDg9w4MtPEovBfMwmB9Eob-kamn6iU1Ib1so6-27rHnMQr9ErQWfePCU-0h2QzQkaPca4enZHz6NTDZWHj0E0n/s1600/02c99d3c7dcf98f8ed35cccab18abf0b.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://beauxmondesdesigns.blogspot.com/2012/12/greengold-sliver-christmas.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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THAT DOG!!!! </div>
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What a muffin, although, clearly this is the most well behaved dog in the world. All those leftovers on the table, and he's not even trying to touch them? </div>
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Yeah right.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6QE8pl0fyD4r1fMA18bX83dcVdIjNmkWRX0l6bDNIg7JGiP_FcYT2A2ZaT5ckRemMH67elKk1HVAyMDCylbbP_izhJAthn5rDqtjpozLPGDE29bT2JAMgdAPUlxhBJ3vPTd8Ka1hWXZU/s1600/ae6b11f6f331c59bea540fdfed9d50b4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6QE8pl0fyD4r1fMA18bX83dcVdIjNmkWRX0l6bDNIg7JGiP_FcYT2A2ZaT5ckRemMH67elKk1HVAyMDCylbbP_izhJAthn5rDqtjpozLPGDE29bT2JAMgdAPUlxhBJ3vPTd8Ka1hWXZU/s1600/ae6b11f6f331c59bea540fdfed9d50b4.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://apartment34.com/2013/12/its-the-most-wonderful-time-of-the-year/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+Apartment34+(apartment+%2334)" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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How pretty are these trees by the way?? There are so many gold ornaments and gold lights, they take over the branches, and it looks like something straight out of Kind Midas' palace.</div>
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That said, I'm a sentimentalist, and so every year our tree gets decorated with the ornaments I've collected over the years. It is such a fun tradition, remembering where each ornament came from. One of my favorites is a pair of ceramic ballet slippers that miraculously have not yet broken. They are HEAVY but so pretty, and remind me of all the Decembers I'd play with them (carefully) as a little girl.</div>
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That said, I did go a little wild this year, and we have a few trees in our house........</div>
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More on that soon!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIE25hIkY_txb_pHbUNZlBlU-TWspLnT6Qh4mKceiU4fydsMNZh3EbMIxy0h8rhNmwky75A2u6kItKjTc8rK-SCr_AVoVt0ZyaO6maD0LG-BpPFMszGHIcFQgVG7I_8Mf7fuMjkuC0stnT/s1600/8ab2394bbe633dd29f60869e6c6839f4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIE25hIkY_txb_pHbUNZlBlU-TWspLnT6Qh4mKceiU4fydsMNZh3EbMIxy0h8rhNmwky75A2u6kItKjTc8rK-SCr_AVoVt0ZyaO6maD0LG-BpPFMszGHIcFQgVG7I_8Mf7fuMjkuC0stnT/s1600/8ab2394bbe633dd29f60869e6c6839f4.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.thisisglamorous.com/2014/11/15-images-holiday-inspiration/page/12/#gallery" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvKtMf8BvuFUube7SJXWrbNqBumyS9yK0eDD8UDjt2-oO3vHpr1EZh1NPvyKt2gWCbsKP2mW7BMmoe9_2Z8sTOHZ4DSNiJD9o6khwcSgblVj_I1BwieCHuf_N5-6OU2AJsSrOt09BqhRQY/s1600/196392dbf0705764a1885729cb45829a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvKtMf8BvuFUube7SJXWrbNqBumyS9yK0eDD8UDjt2-oO3vHpr1EZh1NPvyKt2gWCbsKP2mW7BMmoe9_2Z8sTOHZ4DSNiJD9o6khwcSgblVj_I1BwieCHuf_N5-6OU2AJsSrOt09BqhRQY/s1600/196392dbf0705764a1885729cb45829a.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/on-the-table-planted-centerpieces-180458" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.homeyohmy.com/diy-merry-sign-merry-mag/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.thepeakoftreschic.com/2013/12/fireplace-lust.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="http://ext.homedepot.com/community/blog/christmas-decorating-ideas-black-white-living-room/#_a5y_p=1046949" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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I think the photos speak for themselves, but are you loving the green and gold as much as I am?? I also love classic red and green - red apples, berries, cardinals, and a crisp red plaid! The gold is a really fun change for us this year though, and it's all coming together so well! </div>
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Literally cannot wait to share with you guys some of the decorations we've put up at home!!</div>
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xoxo</div>
Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-92005792597022520222014-12-08T09:30:00.000-08:002014-12-08T09:30:01.091-08:00Living Room Tour<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA3vtfi8ylP1UCWynjP34tokV6ntUmjwvOQXngK_7_wEHvaYRrEyTGk1uf96Pq6qYttacsZi6BXh9rdo1MggQzCSkumgoTC_h3gROOs2AB5L2I3JCfNbM1WX36oIhpZKks6pePfxxC76B_/s1600/IMG_6526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA3vtfi8ylP1UCWynjP34tokV6ntUmjwvOQXngK_7_wEHvaYRrEyTGk1uf96Pq6qYttacsZi6BXh9rdo1MggQzCSkumgoTC_h3gROOs2AB5L2I3JCfNbM1WX36oIhpZKks6pePfxxC76B_/s1600/IMG_6526.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Keeping good on my promises you guys! I really wanted to start back writing on my blog somewhat regularly, and sharing some of the exciting updates we've made to our place! First up, our living room.<br />
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Since moving back into our new/old apartment in February, I've been working slowly but steadily to attack each room with updates. <br />
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I actually used to live in this apartment with my best friend Kira, but when Kris and I moved in together, he and I found a new apartment, and Kira stayed in this one that we shared. Fast forward almost two years later, she decided to move cross-country to Chicago, so Kris and I moved back in. It has a great layout, lots of natural light, and so much more space than we had in our first place together. <br />
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The only problem was that after 5 years of wear and tear, things were looking a little worn. <br />
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I've got to say, it was somewhat of a surreal experience to be living back in an apartment that used to be mine - it wasn't the normal process of getting to know all the quirks of a new home. I already knew that the fake drawer front below the sink fell out from time to time.... that there is a super creepy clicking sound in the middle of the night as the steam heat turns on and the pipes warm up... that you have to open the refrigerator to open the dishwasher. Nothing about the apartment was a surprise, but instead of feeling like I was coming back home, it felt like I was moving into a strangers' apartment. The apartment was the same, but somehow it had changed in the time I was gone. It was older. There were more holes in the walls. There were more scuffs in the paint. Nothing abnormal, just older, more worn, and not mine.<br />
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Luckily for me, the process of getting everything updated and back in tip-top shape felt like a fun project to tackle instead of a massive undertaking. It's been a slow process, but don't they say "slow and steady wins the race"? It's taken me almost a year, quite a few gallons of paint, spackle, sandpaper, and elbow grease, but it's feeling refreshed, and most importantly, like it's ours.<br />
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Today I want to share with you the living room - it's the room where we spend the most time, and one of my favorite spots in our house. Here's where it started a few days after we moved in.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3BXPJ9I9c2LZ3sSMzoT0NS-kUtfMxEL7vAaWpNQN2hv_fg747tEN51CQO1qUipiuWIzrJBcKnYqaxxxzItSADIpJiuPF37-ZSDthvvndPnVjij_rqVdbY3DL5TDAtTJKMtoMgZz8wK0Le/s1600/unnamed+(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3BXPJ9I9c2LZ3sSMzoT0NS-kUtfMxEL7vAaWpNQN2hv_fg747tEN51CQO1qUipiuWIzrJBcKnYqaxxxzItSADIpJiuPF37-ZSDthvvndPnVjij_rqVdbY3DL5TDAtTJKMtoMgZz8wK0Le/s1600/unnamed+(3).jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's what we started with:<br />
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<u>The Bones of the Room:</u><br />
The walls were all scuffed from the multiple moves, had tons of holes from past pictures and shelves, and were painted a yellowed beige color. The fireplace had a really dirty, cracked stone facade in a peach-y color. The curtain rods I'd hung up when I was 24 years old weren't hung straight, and were staggered to fit into the tight bay window space. <br />
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<u>The Furniture:</u><br />
We started with two sad looking love seats that I've been dying to replace for the past two years, a console table that really felt out of place for not only the space but our style. We had our huge, dark, bulky coffee table, that took up more space than the love seats, and matching side tables.<br />
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This is not to say that I hated everything we owned. Quite the opposite.<br />
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I really tried to be creative in our last apartment with how to make what we had work for our space - while nothing matched, and everything was a mish-mash of our starter furniture from our early 20's, I used new throw pillows and decorative accessories to doll things up, and I'll always think back fondly of our first apartment together, and all the things in it. <br />
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The truth was, all the stuff we were holding onto wasn't functioning well with the new layout, and it wasn't comfortable. Aside from nostalgia and feeling frugal, there was literally no reason to hold onto any of it anymore. What was worse, our old furniture, paired with the dingy walls felt especially bland and actually kind of dark and dingy, despite the light color palate.<br />
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This past year was a big one, and for so many reasons, it felt like the start of a new chapter. I turned 30 and got engaged, so moving into a new place felt like the perfect opportunity to get rid of the falling apart "starter" furniture we'd been holding onto, and invest in things we love... pieces that we'd take with us to our future homes, and have for a long time. What I wanted was a bright space that felt new, while highlighting the lovely architectural details this space has to offer, and pieces that could transition from an apartment to a home that we own.<br />
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So what updates did the space get??<br />
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Well first, we painted - all the walls got a coat of Intense White by Benjamin Moore. <br />
<img alt="Displaying FullSizeRender.jpg" height="480" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=d01f6a1eac&view=fimg&th=14a264ecb8bfecc4&attid=0.1&disp=inline&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ-R98-7R0r7B_qzRhfdfRMGWfRLoCCRKj-eBkPmeRgRMei1ITzO2Hh5UoRpDecX-Y-ugLak7IOFHVvMmGXC0phOx_PzuaL6WIvoY_eBCcyi0sCyBc_YRkmtaKE&ats=1417981917205&rm=14a264ecb8bfecc4&zw&sz=w1342-h523" width="640" /><br />
The first rule of renting is to not make changes that the landlord won't approve of. This color is so fresh, light and neutral, we won't be re-painting when we move out.<br />
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It's hands down my favorite color of grey - coming from the same color card as Grey Owl, it's the lightest on the paint card, but it is definitely grey - not white, despite it's name. It's a very bright, clean neutral grey, and doesn't err on the blue side which absorbs light, and can make a room feel dark. The first color I painted was very blue, and I ended up having to paint this room twice. Lesson learned - paint swatches and lots of research when it comes to grey.<br />
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The trim got a coat of Decorator's White - another Benjamin Moore color, and together the trim and walls look really crisp and fresh.<br />
<img alt="Displaying FullSizeRender.jpg" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=d01f6a1eac&view=fimg&th=14a264ecb8bfecc4&attid=0.3&disp=inline&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ_E7EV-7Kz5Sucr1OVOAQSp_9hRKdjDlvGpogP6QS5VlGDAsOjOC5sezl4GogdjRhIyNm4ltNRbyB9ym3wdI8nOf2QXsg9B2hHDkCzd7_4pSy4fxU_U-FilUcM&ats=1417981917205&rm=14a264ecb8bfecc4&zw&sz=w1342-h523" /><br />
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My goal with the walls was to minimize all the imperfections - cracks in the wall, paint blobs from drips the last time this room was painted, and little bumps and nicks, holes from pictures and shelves but as you can see it's not perfect. I patched all the holes in the walls with spackle, sanded them down, but it's an old building, and these walls are plaster from the 30's, so there's not just 5 years of wear and tear, but almost 80 years... at least. While there are still some lumps and bumps, the paint and the touch-ups changed how bright and new the room felt. <br />
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Simple, easy to do, and inexpensive fixes with paint = huge difference.<br />
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I also updated the fireplace. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzYhyphenhyphenImPmBIVodVVg-Lxrf7yhpbrAE1IPNyUcagY47vQD110A7wQRaG8f4HRhgme_g5qUsnsgcZ8qhBM2aV81Clg4fKpN7pvVC5uxXK3lGPsTCwolmeB2vJnv8DE9nuMXy2I6j8L1hmyqs/s1600/IMG_6479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzYhyphenhyphenImPmBIVodVVg-Lxrf7yhpbrAE1IPNyUcagY47vQD110A7wQRaG8f4HRhgme_g5qUsnsgcZ8qhBM2aV81Clg4fKpN7pvVC5uxXK3lGPsTCwolmeB2vJnv8DE9nuMXy2I6j8L1hmyqs/s1600/IMG_6479.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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I posted about that process a few months ago, and we're still loving the updates. The stone that was there was not very beautiful to begin with, and was so dirty and cracked - even scrubbing it, the years of soot were not going anywhere.</div>
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Here's a close up of how it looked before:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4RgTWeDbqHs8eXFQUlCgiz5G-dYDyZhS8wpeRm-SgR8isjsAn4lm2EnJWfhIQGbIruwcvMXPcbvGWBwYcI_ydqxSeeOt_t5YJBtZeKZKIY05Nphv_tNLE6h8UtWePlyZuaL6QY-OHvgE/s1600/IMG_5901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO4RgTWeDbqHs8eXFQUlCgiz5G-dYDyZhS8wpeRm-SgR8isjsAn4lm2EnJWfhIQGbIruwcvMXPcbvGWBwYcI_ydqxSeeOt_t5YJBtZeKZKIY05Nphv_tNLE6h8UtWePlyZuaL6QY-OHvgE/s1600/IMG_5901.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Let me also add, that this "before" picture was taken AFTER scrubbing and scrubbing... the dirt was not going anywhere.</div>
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Here was how it looked during it's facelift:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVzTDRX6kDfzpOR2GAaRQvVS1ScpMYGa7AD_GEWDIwDXfWZM6dlXGwh-cV1Wt4bRCYhWMXNPBu_GYmj4t7-WYg8NVd0grU2Pt0fLW5sKrZC-QTgOe0QBe-PtVIfzYt_7hGs3-RPAHoPjO/s1600/IMG_5910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVzTDRX6kDfzpOR2GAaRQvVS1ScpMYGa7AD_GEWDIwDXfWZM6dlXGwh-cV1Wt4bRCYhWMXNPBu_GYmj4t7-WYg8NVd0grU2Pt0fLW5sKrZC-QTgOe0QBe-PtVIfzYt_7hGs3-RPAHoPjO/s1600/IMG_5910.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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And a few more pretty afters:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjptn1PCPsxP-HUqQVDd-7ZRLjTmf_6Wz8XokMKGyLRNirtH968WWgeYXyv2KS4FJe0dl49swsbm_XERZO8Z-bOwsFLfb4iiEf0eQSjBrdtpIwbIsAWbBbQUasETaPriUpB3UdMZUUc1nzV/s1600/IMG_6478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjptn1PCPsxP-HUqQVDd-7ZRLjTmf_6Wz8XokMKGyLRNirtH968WWgeYXyv2KS4FJe0dl49swsbm_XERZO8Z-bOwsFLfb4iiEf0eQSjBrdtpIwbIsAWbBbQUasETaPriUpB3UdMZUUc1nzV/s1600/IMG_6478.JPG" height="418" width="640" /></a></div>
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Inside the fireplace, you'll notice an abundance of candles. I would NOT light a fire in the fireplace at this point. It hasnt been used in years, it likely is full of soot and god knows what else, and I don't want to risk setting this building on fire.<br />
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So candles are a good alternative - they are super cozy at night when they're all lit, and in the day, they offer a pretty architectural element. As we burn them, I love the wax drips that come down the sides.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgksU1y_OyoeHzLd3OrpHhfuDO1SNYpQssYqYyLgIcRqJXvpYo8gjHNjLiQzmQBs011HMwVgyoStmc8o5eU7ql32Nge31-goeMs7QDVeLfjZ3bP1TrWKdD13TIcGaW0ZhYPINxZPXMWv4xW/s1600/IMG_6482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgksU1y_OyoeHzLd3OrpHhfuDO1SNYpQssYqYyLgIcRqJXvpYo8gjHNjLiQzmQBs011HMwVgyoStmc8o5eU7ql32Nge31-goeMs7QDVeLfjZ3bP1TrWKdD13TIcGaW0ZhYPINxZPXMWv4xW/s1600/IMG_6482.JPG" height="640" width="422" /></a></div>
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The contact paper is holding up really well, and everyone who comes over always comments how much they love it. No one knows it's not marble, and I'm certainly not going to be the one to tell them :-) <a href="http://cuphalffull-sf.blogspot.com/2014/03/fireplace-makeover.html" target="_blank">Read about the whole process here</a>.<br />
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Another update? The old coffee table (which was part of a matching set) got sold to a new home on Craigslist, and we replaced it with this beauty.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUdgrv-0GxI_oAsda0nffd4n57FxntkJ2U6pWZjdCDunXx6x9QBb7B24Vy0tdhOE5lQXnbeAE0TSgKjAn2sReRtCM1bp6dE1zu4SeV7KeU9_SrKBDCLMhgjH0p5_De3IxlPNjOPcoeTWH/s1600/IMG_6475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUdgrv-0GxI_oAsda0nffd4n57FxntkJ2U6pWZjdCDunXx6x9QBb7B24Vy0tdhOE5lQXnbeAE0TSgKjAn2sReRtCM1bp6dE1zu4SeV7KeU9_SrKBDCLMhgjH0p5_De3IxlPNjOPcoeTWH/s1600/IMG_6475.JPG" height="414" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIbgVCnTanJ6K-SBFDCbUF03zXW9No8DXygK1lhVfS061HXx9SuX8TnvK8Ots7254jrAJbfkUNf0vRpYAu1ChMkUBXhBeVNeamprpvHs_o38GwdMug-Oiu2OQGt5DAU3ma4RIDDH3hdFr9/s1600/IMG_6526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIbgVCnTanJ6K-SBFDCbUF03zXW9No8DXygK1lhVfS061HXx9SuX8TnvK8Ots7254jrAJbfkUNf0vRpYAu1ChMkUBXhBeVNeamprpvHs_o38GwdMug-Oiu2OQGt5DAU3ma4RIDDH3hdFr9/s1600/IMG_6526.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is the <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/box-frame-coffee-table-cafe-h518/" target="_blank">Box Frame Coffee Table - Café</a> from West Elm. Overall, we're really happy with it. The wood is such a pretty warm color, the metal frame is incredibly sturdy, and without the storage shelf on the bottom that we had on our last coffee table, it invites less clutter, and looks really open and light. My ONLY complaint is that it scratches easily. It came with a few small scratches in it already, but after waiting for months for it to be delivered (it was back-ordered) the tray camouflages those little scratches, and some good wood oil also helps them disappear. <br />
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Padded coasters are our best friend.<br />
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You might also notice that those awful mis-matched love seats are gone. Woooooo hoooooooo!!<br />
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They've also gone to greener pastures on Craigslist, and we replaced them with the BEST sofa ever made. It's the <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/pb-basic-square-upholstered-sofa-collection/" target="_blank">PB Comfort Square sofa, with chaise from Pottery Barn</a>.<br />
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First I want to say how much we love this couch. Second, let me say that Pottery Barn was THE WORST company to work with from a customer service perspective. Truly awful. I won't go into all the dirty details on here since everything ended well, and we love the sofa so much, but if anyone wants to hear about our experience, send me a private message. <br />
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What we love most about it:<br />
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It has really deep seat cushions, a nice high back, and it's BIG. It looks kind of dainty in these pictures, but Kris and I can both lay down on it without touching - he's 6'3" and I'm 5'8". The pillows on the sofa here are 24" square, so you can really see how large it is from a scale perspective. It's amazing.<br />
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A few more glory shots of our amazing sofa...<br />
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We got the cushions filled with down, and let me just say, it's worth the extra money my friends. Not only can we re-fluff the cushions, but it adds this element of sinking in and being so cozy when you're curled up on it in the evenings.<br />
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Here's a close-up of the fabric. <br />
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<img alt="Displaying IMG_3524.JPG" height="640" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=d01f6a1eac&view=fimg&th=14a266c9d384cc99&attid=0.1&disp=inline&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ9x2NUwpv5MnwqS-RkaA6E1a0DcBSgPdKkUpKByMt2X9frHfgIcagpaMkjKtT3CAcWalyb4Ezh5uJSkQjfGEq7gRCdqf6-pHrm-tAACiqB7DhQ-qwNP29yA2rk&ats=1417983865614&rm=14a266c9d384cc99&zw&sz=w1342-h523" width="479" /></div>
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We ordered the Textured Twill in Oatmeal after seeing it in the store on another sofa. It is really durable for scrubbing IN CASE something spills, but has the look of a more organic linen which I love. The other twill options are flat looking - similar to denim almost - and this color is wonderful at masking everyday wear and tear. <br />
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Kris was the one who wanted it, and he could not have made a better call here.<br />
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Final details? The new lamps, the woven rug, layered with the cowhide from our last apartment, the new pillows, and long white linen curtains.<br />
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I ordered the pillow covers off of Etsy, and agonized over which to get. I loved the large greek key trim, but matching the navy velvet was tough. I wanted a small scale print to coordinate, and ended up with this Schumacher fabric. I love the heavy weight of each - perfect for the colder months right now, and my mom and I are working on others pillow covers that we'll swap in for the spring / summer months.<br />
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The knit creme colored throw was a find at Ikea (of all places), and it's so cozy, and adds a bit of texture to the sofa. It also lives on the chaise lounge, and protects the sofa from dirty feet.<br />
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You can kind of take a peek into the entry and the dining room, but more updates on those spaces later...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxz07Y9HvydsBwY5DoVoHKpiMTUVkr54ehKExCKAON0Sq_N0PW9tXaNeq068dK2CYtO1voZo3LnPXDJ2EhXGf8eKyRDgP256cDVgFAFW-VSOatxCN4IVhNN0k7TEs0pKoA6gkF2zSiz8hg/s1600/IMG_6508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxz07Y9HvydsBwY5DoVoHKpiMTUVkr54ehKExCKAON0Sq_N0PW9tXaNeq068dK2CYtO1voZo3LnPXDJ2EhXGf8eKyRDgP256cDVgFAFW-VSOatxCN4IVhNN0k7TEs0pKoA6gkF2zSiz8hg/s1600/IMG_6508.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The lamps are from Target, the side tables were the ones we had in our last apartment, and while I wasn't crazy about them before, they don't bother me anymore now that the big bulky coffee table is gone. They just sort of blend into the background, and the idea of replacing them is in the very very VERY distant future. Like years maybe.<br />
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The large frames are from Ikea also. A great find - the wood ties in with the coffee table nicely, and you cannot beat the price for a frame that size. The sailing prints are from Art.com, and as my dad aptly pointed out, I've hung them in the reverse order. It's actually two prints of one single boat!<br />
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Oops! Need to rehang those.....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapjWjuC7wmat7iM5t1BHRCjZNjOlHUVbHd-pA1fTSK7QZ9biTFwBsCYr3hH1XaM3BA7s3kb0_My-CRNzBHxinLsiQ2dbVladruZ2p5MSaGFsC5X6vTBwIxJqva8ggqS5bWLItD9o_bD5p/s1600/IMG_6527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapjWjuC7wmat7iM5t1BHRCjZNjOlHUVbHd-pA1fTSK7QZ9biTFwBsCYr3hH1XaM3BA7s3kb0_My-CRNzBHxinLsiQ2dbVladruZ2p5MSaGFsC5X6vTBwIxJqva8ggqS5bWLItD9o_bD5p/s1600/IMG_6527.JPG" height="640" width="416" /></a></div>
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There are a few last pieces to finish to room off - a nice chair to fill in the seating area around the coffee table, a small side table for placing cold drinks, and a few more small details, but I'm really happy with where we've come in the last year.<br />
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It feels clean, refreshed, and is incredibly comfortable and welcoming, which to me was the most important part. It was impossible to lounge around watching movies on those old teeny love seats, and all the furniture we've got now, are things I want to keep for a long, LONG time.<br />
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OH! And I almost forgot one of my favorite things... rounding out our coffee table is the new book from Erin Gates - Elements of Style. I love her so much, and her book is absolutely beautiful - from the striped spine that kills me, to everything inside. One of my favorite books to flip through - not a surprise coming from her #designporn</div>
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So that's where we are!<br />
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It's taken a year to get here, and I'm sure that there are more (minor) changes to come, but I'm so happy with the space as it stands now, and let's be honest... I've got a wedding to plan, so our house will be the furthest thing from my mind in a few months.<br />
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Next update coming your way... the dining room!<br />
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Happy Monday friends!<br />
xoxoBeckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-75663840393019855712014-12-03T14:27:00.002-08:002014-12-03T14:27:26.386-08:00An Apology<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTune4gNmM8lMS9MV_OejfWQDUZaDazTt7r8GHzIhQuTaHYTEkST2sZzEpapJLwUvXwGcq7zlAE2EMIcgZF6DzSZ5JFi8SFCCKZAXVfsMysaQH6-XrTIBoTMu_MRp_eSOIM0W9t0X1T7Dt/s1600/9f31e23186e1518474ae6c8ce314f0f8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTune4gNmM8lMS9MV_OejfWQDUZaDazTt7r8GHzIhQuTaHYTEkST2sZzEpapJLwUvXwGcq7zlAE2EMIcgZF6DzSZ5JFi8SFCCKZAXVfsMysaQH6-XrTIBoTMu_MRp_eSOIM0W9t0X1T7Dt/s1600/9f31e23186e1518474ae6c8ce314f0f8.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.thenouveauromantics.com/blog/poppies-hotel-st-cecilia" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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So... it's December. Where oh WHERE does the time go?? <br />
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If 2013 was the year I really dedicated myself to my blog, 2014 has been the complete opposite. I've completely neglected you guys, and while I feel awful about it, the truth is, I've just been lazy. And kind of un-inspired. <br />
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You'll notice that the more recent posts on here aren't some of my best. <br />
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I'm sorry for that. <br />
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But there is a silver lining!! As a result of my neglect, I've had the opportunity to dedicate myself to being creative outside of this blog, and it's allowed be to turn our apartment, into an actual home. It feels so different from when we moved in - so cozy, and so refreshed. Nearly every room has gotten a fresh coat of paint - just the hallway near the bathroom, and our bedroom are still outstanding right now.<br />
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There's also a lot of new furniture - a new couch! Yes, it happened. <br />
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A new desk and office space! <br />
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A new coffee table.<br />
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A new side table.<br />
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New lamps.<br />
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New dining room chairs. <br />
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New shelving. <br />
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New rugs...<br />
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...And possibly soon, a new dining room table. Boom.<br />
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So, my promise to you is that I will start actually sharing some of these projects, and updates with you all soon.<br />
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xoxoBeckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-85185568465826896792014-10-15T17:07:00.000-07:002014-10-15T17:07:15.214-07:00Pillows that take your House from Summer to Fall<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hands down, the EASIEST way to bring a season into your living space is through textiles - most specifically, throw pillows. You don't have to make a ton of big changes to make your home feel like summer, or Christmas, or in this case fall, and they are the easiest, and cheapest way to do so on a budget.</div>
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Obviously, there are certain fabrics and pillows that easily run into the hundreds, but there are so many affordable options. Some of my favorite sources... Etsy, Target, and Homegoods.</div>
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A few of my favorites out there right now??</div>
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<u>BOTANIC PRINTS:</u></div>
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I love a good floral print - combine a large scale floral with the colors we associate with fall and bam, we're in business. I ALMOST bought the top pillow here from Target, but could only find one. Sad day friends. It's so luscious in person, and a sweet deal too!</div>
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I also love the look of the branches and leaves, and the more understated print of the lumbar pillow here. It could really be used in any season, but the rust red and mustard yellow say "fall" to me.</div>
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<a href="http://m.target.com/p/threshold-jacquard-floral-toss-pillow-coffee-square/-/A-15370587" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="http://m.target.com/p/realtree-nature-inspired-decorative-pillow-pink/-/A-16226597" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/193609135/celerie-kemble-for-schumacher-hot-house?ref=shop_home_active_11" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<u>ETHNIC TEXTILES:</u><br />
In a different color, any of these pillows could be perfect for other seasons, but something about the texture (especially in the Kilm pillow) along with the colors, these would be perfect for the season. In colder months, I especially like thicker fabrics. <br />
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They just say, <i>it's cold outside, so come snuggle on the couch. </i><br />
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Am I right, or am I RIGHT??<br />
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<a href="http://m.target.com/p/bali-toss-pillow-collection/-/A-14627448" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="http://m.target.com/p/realtree-nature-inspired-decorative-pillow-pink/-/A-16226597" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<u>IKAT PRINTS:</u><br />
Again, it's all in the colors that make up the ikat print, but I'm loving the soft melon colors with lots of white. These are kind of perfect for those that live in more temperate climates, so your house doesn't feel bizarre on those random warm days. <br />
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Mixed with neutral pillows, these are lovely and warm for fall, but mixed with fun blues, you could re-use them again in summer!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqsBwilEPkvER6ERWgnpgTQ1rCp0ibrx1uSm6T_Qz8eemSDnFRSeoCN59xfay6WNeMscv03IlQcJEauOTszKkoq1Y6q_Oo8MrmUkuk5bJLF6UyQbc9L1AOX4qf-ecnMaTdT7NjwpCQyvY/s1600/14629679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqsBwilEPkvER6ERWgnpgTQ1rCp0ibrx1uSm6T_Qz8eemSDnFRSeoCN59xfay6WNeMscv03IlQcJEauOTszKkoq1Y6q_Oo8MrmUkuk5bJLF6UyQbc9L1AOX4qf-ecnMaTdT7NjwpCQyvY/s1600/14629679.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://m.target.com/p/isabella-toss-pillow-collection/-/A-14629679" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaw95g_6YEHQEbVBqNcVTgx1Ta1MReYk6iHc8k134LYEHMV4mFvXS_W7RO-G-3HjrEZeTsaGrcfqv9pqy9UkdBKB1DN0n4xtkKA6dwTorvaAcBgtRoxnE9gVL7DmCk59dTAEY5CloGHrFk/s1600/il_570xN.438715150_ql0l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaw95g_6YEHQEbVBqNcVTgx1Ta1MReYk6iHc8k134LYEHMV4mFvXS_W7RO-G-3HjrEZeTsaGrcfqv9pqy9UkdBKB1DN0n4xtkKA6dwTorvaAcBgtRoxnE9gVL7DmCk59dTAEY5CloGHrFk/s1600/il_570xN.438715150_ql0l.jpg" height="560" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/126633968/ikat-both-sides-18-20-22-24-decorative?ref=sr_gallery_20&ga_search_query=orange+ikat+throw+pillows&ga_page=2&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJwIbRbH024_y4XV-8an3v7mTLsAQ4ZcgF8py5D1TJ6M_r8tI96p87E7LRpeVLAspeeBDk7aOJCWVhI7QKKKAOjoSRSpqf7BAcSyhVqKmbEBzdNsZBgCooAqkBbHgSUI2Vwyv2klyFiLQ/s1600/il_570xN.571236395_gqd7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglJwIbRbH024_y4XV-8an3v7mTLsAQ4ZcgF8py5D1TJ6M_r8tI96p87E7LRpeVLAspeeBDk7aOJCWVhI7QKKKAOjoSRSpqf7BAcSyhVqKmbEBzdNsZBgCooAqkBbHgSUI2Vwyv2klyFiLQ/s1600/il_570xN.571236395_gqd7.jpg" height="540" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/175537650/decorative-pillow-cover-18x18-20x20?ref=sr_gallery_15&ga_search_query=orange+ikat+throw+pillows&ga_page=3&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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Any good ones you've seen recently? I missed the boat for the blue and white pillows I have yet to make - I have a few months to stitch those up, and we can use them after the holidays are over, but for now, I'm on the hunt for some good autumnal pillows!</div>
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xo</div>
Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-88458006760074421712014-10-13T15:49:00.000-07:002014-10-13T15:49:35.226-07:00A Revamped Office Plan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hola friends!! How's everything going for you this week??</div>
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Just wanted to check in since some ideas have been spinning around in my head. We're re-working our office space at home as we speak, and I'm really excited about the inexpensive changes we're making. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCzThd-7_XqBPLphQDsSsTJ8LhbXB3B5kge7KpOlDjQZqNUS9MfkQ03AA1XU6nBzE6sq2gntLPTQ3IgQYPAXYHij8RJ0O_K5TqXt0zOgz7A5Leu7dlmrAu-vw5uXJ2DufkZWTHtJxwXZHx/s1600/33ce3814ba728c6720117ed5f084b525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCzThd-7_XqBPLphQDsSsTJ8LhbXB3B5kge7KpOlDjQZqNUS9MfkQ03AA1XU6nBzE6sq2gntLPTQ3IgQYPAXYHij8RJ0O_K5TqXt0zOgz7A5Leu7dlmrAu-vw5uXJ2DufkZWTHtJxwXZHx/s1600/33ce3814ba728c6720117ed5f084b525.jpg" height="640" width="500" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bloodandchampagne.com/page/2/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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I'd been pretty happy with the mini makeover we'd given this space a few months back... the office had been functioning fine for me when I'd work from home, but as I think it goes with most projects around the house, it always starts with one little thing.... our thing was a computer monitor. <br />
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Kris has been working from home, and really needed a computer monitor to be more productive. We talked about it, and agreed that if he needed one to be more productive when working at home, it was a good decision. So he went ahead to choose which one he wanted and ordered it.<br />
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Fast forward a few weeks, and there was a massive box sitting in the entryway. <i>What was in this massive box</i>, I thought? Turns out, the massive box held an equally massive computer monitor... like big-screen TV massive. Why am I not surprised.... men!<br />
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What this meant was that we now needed a new desk. The desk we already had was WAY TOO SMALL to house his behemoth computer monitor, laptop, and various other desk stuffs, and so the hunt for a new desk, and the mission to revamp our office was born.<br />
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To refresh your memory, here's how the room had been looking........<br />
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<img height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu4JQssWJe2oVkIUWolvpV3jz3uHX24ROByNSFllLA_U2EoqsCl2odhj6PYn0MpPB16NtnZ0IQlFrdE0b0KsO4tbKv6xbcheJ4cpqawc1dw51rjkkY4IbnApHjDVqgLPHDOptHxuiruNCl/s640/IMG_6132.JPG" width="426" /></div>
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All the updates we'd made in this space were really inexpensive. I sanded and painted an old desk that was literally falling apart, painted the walls, and hung a drum shade for overhead light. Since this photo was taken, I've also painted the grout white, and brought in some life in the form of an enormous, gorgeous plant. </div>
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I swear people, plants make everything better.</div>
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All the updates we already made were extremely friendly on the wallet, and surprise surprise, we plan to keep the second phase of this room's makeover equally inexpensive. Since we will be replacing the above desk with one almost twice it's size, we'll also be changing the layout of the room. The desk will live on the right hand wall perpendicular to where it is in the above picture.</div>
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I also want to clean up those curtains. They are too sheer, so I'd love to line them, and they are also way too long, so they need to be hemmed. I got lazy when I worked on them the first time, so even though they needed to be hemmed months ago, I just rolled them under and called it a day. Shameful! Having them hemmed with a crisp edge will make them SO much better.</div>
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We're also going to have one big empty wall to fill up, so there will be a project there as well... maybe a nice shelf above the monitor to have some pretty frames lined up... or a gallery wall around the monitor could be nice... not sure yet!</div>
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A few more things... we need a desk chair that is as comfortable as it is beautiful, and a comfy spot to perch in the window since that space will be freed up. Can't you just imagine me cozied up in the sunshine on a winter afternoon??</div>
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In terms of a desk, here's what we're thinking.......</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi56pzj-23poRQ-m-_eKn2YIXBHkJX75bOJgr4KqPRDKlavl7uDsCf0DXGYRoc32MQ_nNyp0HpL3JKZ6J0ySDXTf2g_FTsIXFI1-g3QdUZnPVWMpSOe1ZCk8UDuDF2rr2pqo8qqHGTGU4vb/s1600/21b0e8923fbc8e9ccb37a93653708ac7+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi56pzj-23poRQ-m-_eKn2YIXBHkJX75bOJgr4KqPRDKlavl7uDsCf0DXGYRoc32MQ_nNyp0HpL3JKZ6J0ySDXTf2g_FTsIXFI1-g3QdUZnPVWMpSOe1ZCk8UDuDF2rr2pqo8qqHGTGU4vb/s1600/21b0e8923fbc8e9ccb37a93653708ac7+(1).jpg" height="640" width="472" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://revengeofelegance.tumblr.com/post/90152207192" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7RPqsfpQb3ygKZICepB36S699a5elPTL6g5dZBE1Czz-13YLyc0WnF2bsRhazj5IAcOPU4nbHm3ZpVCKSHVCICdW4xpAQ91diLeHkWAntJkz0sOwjkyxgGP-Vr_xY2aznSdUX2ybTwT3w/s1600/1570aaf8e41e85cc74989961102c009e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7RPqsfpQb3ygKZICepB36S699a5elPTL6g5dZBE1Czz-13YLyc0WnF2bsRhazj5IAcOPU4nbHm3ZpVCKSHVCICdW4xpAQ91diLeHkWAntJkz0sOwjkyxgGP-Vr_xY2aznSdUX2ybTwT3w/s1600/1570aaf8e41e85cc74989961102c009e.jpg" height="640" width="404" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://ikeaspotting.tumblr.com/post/20185852906" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEireQx7msz_1fqu3_lTr8GsI7GKeUy4-WXDgM04QrH3RASXYDJ7wy-mchUbCnH7HToKvViwBngDo40UOdnAOosv-lKjNECsO7IP6leRP4hpN1R_3TduAUA30r2GgavtI-0v-Pro6PPIGAzW/s1600/c01af842bde4c167f40a30bd11e94c0f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEireQx7msz_1fqu3_lTr8GsI7GKeUy4-WXDgM04QrH3RASXYDJ7wy-mchUbCnH7HToKvViwBngDo40UOdnAOosv-lKjNECsO7IP6leRP4hpN1R_3TduAUA30r2GgavtI-0v-Pro6PPIGAzW/s1600/c01af842bde4c167f40a30bd11e94c0f.jpg" height="640" width="512" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfic5kqYV3qhpN3EqRkxudVrSEq0kG5rq6JoKXTKszRwOyFMG0iz8Rk8CyXQgjIhzRQYwk2GNMGxs-nh9Hq17HSgwShTz19IjcriEfWR8Bl-Mt_PXdjbQqiXxJH8Lczosym8jnavMuVEAV/s1600/79f0e14605a1e0ab8316dcbe0548c4b3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfic5kqYV3qhpN3EqRkxudVrSEq0kG5rq6JoKXTKszRwOyFMG0iz8Rk8CyXQgjIhzRQYwk2GNMGxs-nh9Hq17HSgwShTz19IjcriEfWR8Bl-Mt_PXdjbQqiXxJH8Lczosym8jnavMuVEAV/s1600/79f0e14605a1e0ab8316dcbe0548c4b3.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/79/f0/e1/79f0e14605a1e0ab8316dcbe0548c4b3.jpg" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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Kris likes modern, I like a warmer look, and this sort of combines the best for both worlds. Kris likes the clean silhouette, and I like the warm wood top. Done!</div>
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We started out looking at desks from West Elm, World Market, Target, and everywhere in between since this was not a project we wanted to put a ton of cash into, but even options from there were adding up to several hundred dollars. Our solution is going to cost us less than $100, and I can't wait to share more details once it all comes together! </div>
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More updates soon, promise!</div>
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xoxo</div>
<br />Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-5704506390009834542014-09-30T10:32:00.001-07:002014-09-30T10:32:32.205-07:00Fall Decor: The Magnolia LeafHey Guys... happy Fall! Can anyone else believe that it's the last day of September??? Seriously, where does the time go?<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAhWpmbpNDiGfVeVhKNCpfL_Wjpn16AevYFxhYmrbqdJfvwkL6354CzkFAk-lkunAZ8S9fVrwLwbVx8myq7QY6mW8IQqYY1Y1JQNn2RyYOdpA9BVGHxwiUYrulFaL_zN1JJ5W8vSTGX33/s1600/3cd1aa588c4a718c0e72d3bd3d0f7d50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAhWpmbpNDiGfVeVhKNCpfL_Wjpn16AevYFxhYmrbqdJfvwkL6354CzkFAk-lkunAZ8S9fVrwLwbVx8myq7QY6mW8IQqYY1Y1JQNn2RyYOdpA9BVGHxwiUYrulFaL_zN1JJ5W8vSTGX33/s1600/3cd1aa588c4a718c0e72d3bd3d0f7d50.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.southernliving.com/food/holidays-occasions/make-magnolia-wreaths/make-magnolia-wreaths-red-velvet-ribbons" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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Our home still has some of it's summer decor up, but with fall in full swing, and the days getting noticeably shorter, my goal for this week is to get some fall decor going at home. It seems that everyone goes straight for pumpkins when decorating for fall, but I want to go for a less obvious approach. </div>
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There will of course still be pumpkins and gourds in the mix as well, but for this fall, I'm really liking the magnolia leaf. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixuPsVTeCoK82EN069Pbt3oyrJa3ntpueaTisbLpV7v-Y-Op5-ckgvg8NpXrd5WXqBMDTZeduPSzltBX-5O6li2D3UoBJ4JE_BAD7Foy-IA4MpvosUZwH8gC57kOOH9pOU-k-Ti9IStwku/s1600/77c2179f74d128af9f2f4844a030a215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixuPsVTeCoK82EN069Pbt3oyrJa3ntpueaTisbLpV7v-Y-Op5-ckgvg8NpXrd5WXqBMDTZeduPSzltBX-5O6li2D3UoBJ4JE_BAD7Foy-IA4MpvosUZwH8gC57kOOH9pOU-k-Ti9IStwku/s1600/77c2179f74d128af9f2f4844a030a215.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.elizabethannedesigns.com/blog/2014/04/23/chic-pretty-seaside-wedding/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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It's extremely classic, and I love that the leaves look as lovely bright and green as they do once they brown out. I also really like that the magnolia leaf - whether in the form of garland, nosegay, or wreath will take you all the way through Thanksgiving... even into the holiday season!</div>
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Look how pretty this garland below is - very autumnal without needing in your face bright orange leaves.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEcBX6HFrXFVyRqYgkAH67QULBBQayjGsO7zejPbQqxaky5dQaVtPc2fcFS2YogDRJythy8nTNimrXGs33B1yaKq5On3VJLME__xTXwSZXwdn_jQ_BKdG4GdIQp1FbPYWxOALJh19_Un0K/s1600/131f0f937a1b7468e58743637e2fc0da.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEcBX6HFrXFVyRqYgkAH67QULBBQayjGsO7zejPbQqxaky5dQaVtPc2fcFS2YogDRJythy8nTNimrXGs33B1yaKq5On3VJLME__xTXwSZXwdn_jQ_BKdG4GdIQp1FbPYWxOALJh19_Un0K/s1600/131f0f937a1b7468e58743637e2fc0da.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.countryliving.com/country-in-the-city/diy-garland-ideas" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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As a side note... I also really like the dark brown jug. It also feels very autumnal without being juvenile.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFyDboIz472zfHv9no_d6mCM98KP06trAXcV50eg37eHTpV_269w29zX4lv5x3udfmk5wXH9PlOQsxno8-CyfvVYR3-0xFQnuZWYYUoBvOyaN-nyV1jB60hdTh3YTNTKwpXZ78elEqPzyA/s1600/d6f7c8126f751e9b0e292bdafe141507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFyDboIz472zfHv9no_d6mCM98KP06trAXcV50eg37eHTpV_269w29zX4lv5x3udfmk5wXH9PlOQsxno8-CyfvVYR3-0xFQnuZWYYUoBvOyaN-nyV1jB60hdTh3YTNTKwpXZ78elEqPzyA/s1600/d6f7c8126f751e9b0e292bdafe141507.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.deborahsilver.com/blog/tag/magnolia-garland/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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This garland is also a favorite - the mix of brown magnolia leaves with the green is so pretty, and while to me this looks like fall, it's clearly something that can take you into the holiday season too. Imagine that lit up at night. So pretty. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokMd5tIAuapN0RtpNlxCkKO2k70nC9ZpHhQoPRicow6hOXDIZ96yrcLOFU3M0wAzGkS_JpSG3r7fBVPHkO9AOJXVq8qfc-tze9dFONG9xMunDAbgGfa9uz6_D795Wmo7LRNpHEupxXJm9/s1600/a5e9cfceb510611a2a50b56c300c8c1c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgokMd5tIAuapN0RtpNlxCkKO2k70nC9ZpHhQoPRicow6hOXDIZ96yrcLOFU3M0wAzGkS_JpSG3r7fBVPHkO9AOJXVq8qfc-tze9dFONG9xMunDAbgGfa9uz6_D795Wmo7LRNpHEupxXJm9/s1600/a5e9cfceb510611a2a50b56c300c8c1c.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.elizabethannedesigns.com/blog/slideshow/15-fall-wedding-ideas/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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These nosegays clustered around lit lanterns is a very grand way to light up the stairs leading to your house... even along the driveway. Or take this look inside, and cluster a few lanterns of varying sizes on a mantle, flanking a long dining table, or as a centerpiece on an outside table.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr1Mp5-2N8ek4cqXY1TRXHTcOaTKXtUUIz4HdH8wSEn8phmSR_CKG-IGnNlBeDmpmIg2M9RIYBQuisOeu0_N8p-O0dvusVgG5hDMywkDKDQd-s7J3PLa1dqhjc831Wl6G5zm2Mg5YknV0U/s1600/04e9c24c6fc1575a67fa767a305f7ef4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr1Mp5-2N8ek4cqXY1TRXHTcOaTKXtUUIz4HdH8wSEn8phmSR_CKG-IGnNlBeDmpmIg2M9RIYBQuisOeu0_N8p-O0dvusVgG5hDMywkDKDQd-s7J3PLa1dqhjc831Wl6G5zm2Mg5YknV0U/s1600/04e9c24c6fc1575a67fa767a305f7ef4.jpg" height="468" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.elizabethannedesigns.com/blog/slideshow/15-fall-wedding-ideas/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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I am fairly sure that I've posted this idea last year, but I still love the look of magnolia leaves as placecards. So simple, although my handwriting would look nothing like that.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikG__4oCqRMZIV-VtmRqo6nvc3Nzw8jnNeQsv4UtGftgQNQF682swTC__zuVI5YqXuk1fTd-y-_NBLcshCj9WSLh9LIqDbaeVQJAj_XDjRBAmyp4UPtqROgazq0K4od4Jvl44Toii0ZSzz/s1600/01b720fb9be15a8c219d5c3ad23e4c63.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikG__4oCqRMZIV-VtmRqo6nvc3Nzw8jnNeQsv4UtGftgQNQF682swTC__zuVI5YqXuk1fTd-y-_NBLcshCj9WSLh9LIqDbaeVQJAj_XDjRBAmyp4UPtqROgazq0K4od4Jvl44Toii0ZSzz/s1600/01b720fb9be15a8c219d5c3ad23e4c63.jpg" height="640" width="552" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://ifferslittlenest.blogspot.com/2008/11/christmas-decorations-wreaths.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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And finally, one of my favorites... the gilded magnolia leaf wreath. I want to try and tackle a similar project this weekend. Now that our front door is looking all fresh and pretty, I'm thinking of retiring our moss wreath until the springtime, and attempting a similar gold wreath. </div>
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That would look so pretty against it, don't you think??</div>
Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-78071107154278568232014-09-08T09:00:00.000-07:002014-09-08T09:00:00.915-07:00Sprucing up the Entry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kDuryRyLTZ2jWs7CbPC9bNANiyu1rGNUdRfS-zPju4It_VcxNnV7sk52QF47VKSMWyFdiMO6qcLcS5Blx0e_odWZeLouqmC7t9diPMrtyjfjEGNl_0KuHgyWDwymT8ClRuCvyR9vYih7/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0kDuryRyLTZ2jWs7CbPC9bNANiyu1rGNUdRfS-zPju4It_VcxNnV7sk52QF47VKSMWyFdiMO6qcLcS5Blx0e_odWZeLouqmC7t9diPMrtyjfjEGNl_0KuHgyWDwymT8ClRuCvyR9vYih7/s1600/Picture1.png" height="640" width="486" /></a></div>
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So... our entryway / frontdoor has gotten a bit of a facelift. </div>
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Actually, if we want to be more accurate in comparing hallway updates to plastic surgery, it's more like our entryway got some botox. Nothing radical. Nothing over the top. No nips and tucks... just a bit of an enhancement. </div>
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Wait... would this update be more of a boob job then? Ugh, whatever. It's looking better. Let's just say that. </div>
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Here's how the hallway looks now as you walk through the front door. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ytH8NMphIaDGenxJSs5d5pj_zHqCEuNwvcOj23G3e-_ZU9lb1ObpQc7wFpb9tPZWvdUavHClIYu4I405nzC6gaIGV2aP_MwUS2Z_xxxAcZp4T5uC821JQJnUICblN0SC8b2U-IddhzIn/s1600/IMG_6283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ytH8NMphIaDGenxJSs5d5pj_zHqCEuNwvcOj23G3e-_ZU9lb1ObpQc7wFpb9tPZWvdUavHClIYu4I405nzC6gaIGV2aP_MwUS2Z_xxxAcZp4T5uC821JQJnUICblN0SC8b2U-IddhzIn/s1600/IMG_6283.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Pretty wreath. Some nice color in the runner. My pretty bar cart. <br />
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And here is the hallway, staring back at the front door from the other end. New mirror, new plant, and yes... a freshly painted door.<br />
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<i><< heavens singing >></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTwEfn0O73qpcm3Lvi_GwGL6ImY7yY-N-19WyOql9NrxKCYPaf4tHTmIpy3ssiMMR2UE6Zi6HAQLOU8-ueOTyAnVi-1WlKl1S10khIat5o-rJLfJGRAXLbx8Nc7HhulPDPp1TfSAtrGFn/s1600/IMG_6271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTwEfn0O73qpcm3Lvi_GwGL6ImY7yY-N-19WyOql9NrxKCYPaf4tHTmIpy3ssiMMR2UE6Zi6HAQLOU8-ueOTyAnVi-1WlKl1S10khIat5o-rJLfJGRAXLbx8Nc7HhulPDPp1TfSAtrGFn/s1600/IMG_6271.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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I mean LOOK at that thing! A work of art, pretty much.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3hdshAr9_ggOTZS-wTYL_Gv4OJAPXAlkjIPOeMMi08W07Kf1_3cezeWF842vWXwvmfZMAp0ICzXi7xemK_rdalqXlXVLOBpugO3EliVZ-boBcxT91SxyLW_2pGY1WkHo39KZqWhOLXdD/s1600/IMG_6279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3hdshAr9_ggOTZS-wTYL_Gv4OJAPXAlkjIPOeMMi08W07Kf1_3cezeWF842vWXwvmfZMAp0ICzXi7xemK_rdalqXlXVLOBpugO3EliVZ-boBcxT91SxyLW_2pGY1WkHo39KZqWhOLXdD/s1600/IMG_6279.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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I am so thrilled with how it came out - the grey is perfect, and it brings some much needed contrast to the entry. It's looking pretty good in here... not that it looked bad before. It was just sort of blah beforehand... kind of empty and unfinished. </div>
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Now that you've seen it's current (aka gorgeous) state, let's look at how it started. Per usual, I took one before picture, and called it a day. When will I learn?!<br />
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Here's how the hallway / entrance looked beforehand:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibxkSsqYfsPZtOWDXZEeMVnLn2_hKhdPFWz7UtNvjt22q778LWhk-JAHP7fXZN3GCQQbedsuCJWVYrJvn25ugy0sm6tNaE6DySlB2CE23FN-7TKk_bC-k9-wqeuux3hzjDYzXw2V3Ui1P1/s1600/IMG_6259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibxkSsqYfsPZtOWDXZEeMVnLn2_hKhdPFWz7UtNvjt22q778LWhk-JAHP7fXZN3GCQQbedsuCJWVYrJvn25ugy0sm6tNaE6DySlB2CE23FN-7TKk_bC-k9-wqeuux3hzjDYzXw2V3Ui1P1/s1600/IMG_6259.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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It wasn't BAD... it just was very white, and very empty. The mirror had actually just been hung - literally MOMENTS before I took this picture. It actually looked MUCH emptier in there beforehand, so this "before" is actually an improvement on the real "before". That wall to the left of the door has been completely empty since we moved in back in January. </div>
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Really, this space started as just a blank slate - white walls, white door. Plain, and calling out for some color.</div>
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Via Pinterest, I'd seen a few interior doors painted dark colors, and so decided to tackle our plain hollow core door. The hardware on it is pretty ugly, with the exception of the peep hole. The pretty brass peephole probably cost more than the entire door, knob, hinges, and lock, so I wanted to feature it prominently. What color looks good with brass? Grey. And black... but grey is where it's at. I didn't want to go too dark on the inside of this door, and honestly black looks better with a glossy finish, which on a lumpy, bumpy door equals bad paint job.</div>
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I wanted a quick and easy project, and feeling too lazy to head to the hardware store for a fresh can of grey paint, I improvised. What I really did was mix a bunch of leftover paint together to make a color that suited my needs, but let's just say I created a "custom paint for the door". </div>
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<i>**Note: do not try to mix custom colors if you need a lot of paint otherwise you'll run out, and never be able to match the color you started with**</i></div>
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I keep all the extra paint that is leftover from projects in a cabinet in the kitchen for easy access. I knew I wanted to paint the door a dark color since the rest of the hallway was all white. I also knew that I didn't want a glossy paint since it would show every. single. imperfection (which our front door has plenty of). I also knew I didn't want it to be completely black. I was looking for a dark grey with blue undertones, so I brought out the remainders of my can of eggshell finish "Grey Owl" (a very light grey) from our dining room in our last apartment, along with some satin finish black paint that I used on our dresser and nightstands, and a can of blue outdoor paint I'd used on the deck chairs. </div>
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Yes, all the paints had different finishes, and all of them are meant for different kinds of projects, but I knew that mixed together they'd be ok. The outdoor paint is very matte and kind of rough, so the texture this added to the mixture meant no priming needed! Score for me! </div>
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It's possible that the door would end up being hideous... streaky... peeling... or just a wierd splotchy color, but IT'S JUST PAINT. This is the mantra I repeat to Kris whenever he think's I'm having a bad idea... and it's true! It really is just paint. If you mess up, you can re-do it. It's not a huge commitment (coming from the girl who had to paint the living room twice), so when you want to tackle a project but feel like it's a big change, or you're worried you might mess it up... trust me when I say, paint is so easy to change, so don't over-analyze it. It works out 99% of the time.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPzx820kkCxw3XzohwaF7DwT9XYNdoFvpHnyEfszS57i-gJQT_Kgwk2wVgQNRGushCzwvpIarfmSiQO-O3tMi7bjVpb97HANhvyS7_0zGtPkr2hVKYCyjLf5C3HKqrduytjg3T9HzDFhv/s1600/IMG_6261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPzx820kkCxw3XzohwaF7DwT9XYNdoFvpHnyEfszS57i-gJQT_Kgwk2wVgQNRGushCzwvpIarfmSiQO-O3tMi7bjVpb97HANhvyS7_0zGtPkr2hVKYCyjLf5C3HKqrduytjg3T9HzDFhv/s1600/IMG_6261.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anyway, back to my "custom paint mixture"... I didn't have a fancy bucket for mixing, but I did have an empty jar of tomato sauce from dinner the night before. I cleaned it out REALLY well and made sure it was thoroughly dried before pouring paint in.</div>
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It turned out to be the perfect vessel for mixing paints, because you could screw the lid on and just shake it up. Could not have been easier. I mixed, and tested a few swatches on the door until I found a color I liked, and then I got to work. I used a short handle brush for cutting in around the door knob, deadbolt, and peephole, and I rolled the rest with a flat foam roller.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifip9YOXeASuLSrrKuWX5xuHbIIZ7VBAkeKfDbQ-r2rYQHZdUDC0x_yTXYW3OY79faIIWwhWW8NRZpdU946EfarrzomE_5_Sivp-I80lXrkG3KdSgTtRTXwqQTHeedKrRMvkQe7rVFcNty/s1600/IMG_6262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifip9YOXeASuLSrrKuWX5xuHbIIZ7VBAkeKfDbQ-r2rYQHZdUDC0x_yTXYW3OY79faIIWwhWW8NRZpdU946EfarrzomE_5_Sivp-I80lXrkG3KdSgTtRTXwqQTHeedKrRMvkQe7rVFcNty/s1600/IMG_6262.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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It took about 3 coats to really get an even color on the door, and while you can see the brush strokes of previous paint jobs, it doesn't bother me. This is the exact reason I wanted a more matte paint... glossy paint magnifies every single imperfection x1000, so can you imagine how prominent the imperfections would look with a glossy paint? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2NVJIJ2tjv8rpdkjsW3UzjY9ayi9IaUVDYOAxSmgMWKqDkgpjpC1r1GbVTeT6XdBygxhBLaTtQe1xGglmwng6Nge-Ovtpx3D8Kq23eWDUlOza7OH279oAM3i2w1117yt5oAqn9LGz4OSr/s1600/IMG_6274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2NVJIJ2tjv8rpdkjsW3UzjY9ayi9IaUVDYOAxSmgMWKqDkgpjpC1r1GbVTeT6XdBygxhBLaTtQe1xGglmwng6Nge-Ovtpx3D8Kq23eWDUlOza7OH279oAM3i2w1117yt5oAqn9LGz4OSr/s1600/IMG_6274.JPG" height="640" width="470" /></a></div>
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Isn't that peephole just amazing? I love it! It was hard to cut in on those little details, but what paint got on the brass, I just wiped off with a wet paper towel immediately and all was good.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDF0_dnnoJpEVQa1U4pp4bV9FFQbXcL0hTQRKhww02hX1DfdYIbnywx95ItTzet5IL-D4EIqPq58ts6jqaCGjSSCo_7GzN4FObueb8Y7ID6H5ESIMhEkM88cTcJ7d2w102DCx_A3yW6-5R/s1600/IMG_6275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDF0_dnnoJpEVQa1U4pp4bV9FFQbXcL0hTQRKhww02hX1DfdYIbnywx95ItTzet5IL-D4EIqPq58ts6jqaCGjSSCo_7GzN4FObueb8Y7ID6H5ESIMhEkM88cTcJ7d2w102DCx_A3yW6-5R/s1600/IMG_6275.JPG" height="640" width="418" /></a></div>
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See those little holes below the peep hole?? What ARE those?<br />
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The paint was still wet when I snapped these close-up pictures, so you can really see the brushstrokes of paint-jobs past. Also... notice the hinges? They now match the peephole thanks to a quick once over with my gold leaf pen.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhor-eVp_JICNtBvUynBnAbsJCSOgD5-HBNdZu0oMaiR4PikjZ-FEtRbyS5oqiSHPgePF8UM6w9cw1XFLJxld438rgID0ZHpIm1WMEowdJFUCuiQ-ImFsgW2l03pg-ogiVAq-2sZ65Fa_Tv/s1600/IMG_6276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhor-eVp_JICNtBvUynBnAbsJCSOgD5-HBNdZu0oMaiR4PikjZ-FEtRbyS5oqiSHPgePF8UM6w9cw1XFLJxld438rgID0ZHpIm1WMEowdJFUCuiQ-ImFsgW2l03pg-ogiVAq-2sZ65Fa_Tv/s1600/IMG_6276.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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Another really minor change that I appreciate every day when I head out the door?? <br />
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The speaker.<br />
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See how old, and gross the old speaker was? This is for the intercom system so that we don't accidentally buzz and ax-murderer into the building, and it's "harvest gold" as my mom calls it. A super popular household appliance color of the 70's and 80's. Why?????<br />
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I'm not sure this is harvest gold as much as it is "faded baby poop" - either way, it was ugly.</div>
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But not anymore!! It got a coat of white paint to match the walls, and all is right with the world again...</div>
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Look how it blends in and just dissapears! Such a small change, but I swear it makes a WORLD of difference.<br />
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This wreath on the door came from Smith and Hawkins for Target, and is made of live moss. I'm not entirely sure how to care for it, but I've spritzed it a few times with water, and it seems happy so far. I realize now that I need to fix the hanging mechanism, since you can see the hook very clearly in these pictures, but that's an easy change.</div>
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Our bar cart got a few additions to glam it up... striped straws, a new, BEAUTIFUL live orchid with the largest, thickest petals you've ever seen, and a new (to me) ice bucket.<br />
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The ice bucket is actually of the Mad Men era, and belonged to Kris' grandmother who passed away earlier this year. She made it to 100 years old my friends! <br />
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I never did get to meet her, but love that we have something that was hers. There are little nicks and scratches here and there, but when we use it, and see those imperfections, I'll think of all the parties (and cocktails) they probably had over the years. <br />
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Come to think of it, with all the nicks, it seems they used it a lot... I think her and I would have had quite a bit in common :-)<br />
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On the wall opposite the bar cart hangs one of my FAVORITE flea market finds from a few weeks back. I am SO in love with this mirror. Last week I posted about the mirror at the flea market that got away... it just seemed silly to get both this one and the octagonal mirror in the same day, but I am so glad that I came away with at least one of them. It's one of my favorite things that I own.</div>
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There was no hesitation in purchasing this one, and thank god, because it is PERFECT for this space. It's the perfect size for this wall (narrow, but not too narrow), and it's just so nice to have a spot to check your hair before running out the door.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ11h5mIzyRiGTKTqtqiA1_J_4o9YByLZ87pc5LcVntkjGdTIW8BzIQGqpDDMkqSR1AHz3qJpd9tVLNLWI6iXikLoJwd1baczvsQlrI5wAy2EgbzmIc7bi0UFzXGWdDWaSTlE-EIHrmTsO/s1600/IMG_6273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ11h5mIzyRiGTKTqtqiA1_J_4o9YByLZ87pc5LcVntkjGdTIW8BzIQGqpDDMkqSR1AHz3qJpd9tVLNLWI6iXikLoJwd1baczvsQlrI5wAy2EgbzmIc7bi0UFzXGWdDWaSTlE-EIHrmTsO/s1600/IMG_6273.JPG" height="640" width="414" /></a></div>
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The mirror is nice and light - physically, and visually... it doesn't weigh that much, and the light wood is so pretty! I just LOVE the carved details, and the little feet on the bottom kill me! Mini pineapples!!<br />
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The final addition to this space was some fresh greenery - my newest fiddle leaf fig that I haven't killed (yet). It doesn't stick out or block traffic flow between rooms (which I was worried about when I first moved it here), and it is just so fresh and lovely.<br />
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The rug was the first thing that went down in this hallway, and about 5 months later, we're still in love (me and the rug). The blue packs a punch... it's navy, but still very vibrant, and it's holding up SO WELL. Very little shedding, which I've been happy about, although it is a magnet for lint like you wouldn't believe.<br />
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So that's it - a little paint, and some well placed accessories and we're in business! Very very happy that the hallway isn't all bare, and empty and sad anymore. One more side by side before and after?? <br />
Oh okkkkkk, since you asked!<br />
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Don't you just love quick and easy fixes? I think a coat of paint, and some well placed accessories really brought this space from plain, to pretty.<br />
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Happy Monday!!Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-4614627199246680602014-09-04T09:00:00.000-07:002014-09-04T09:00:07.011-07:00The Mirror that Got AwayRegret. Major regret my friends!! <br />
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I'm going to call it "un-buyers remorse". Ugh!! If only I could turn back time and buy that mirror a month ago at the Alameda County Flea Market, all would be well in the world!!<br />
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Here's the short version of this story... a few weeks ago, one of my best friends and I went to the Alameda County Flea Market. "Flea Market" doesn't sound like the kind of place I'd want to be, but I swear to you, this one is amazing. Some real gems my friends... Also, a lot of weird old (but not that old) nightgowns, Hawaiian shirts, and used shoes, but for the most part cool, unique furniture, accessories, and antiques.<br />
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Last month was our second trip to the flea market, and having already used our first trip to scout things out, we came prepared with a rough wishlist of what we wanted to find, plenty of cash, and comfortable walking shoes. We both came away from our little flea market trip with some absolute gems... but there is one mirror that I passed on, and it keeps coming back to haunt me.<br />
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It's literally haunting me you guys... now that it's long gone, and I can't possibly have it, I keep seeing it pop up in pictures of beautifully styled rooms - on my favorite blogs... on Pinterest! I can't escape it!!<br />
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I realize that at some point I'm going to have to get over it, but it's just so pretty, and it would look so amazing over our chest of drawers in the bedroom! As if to add insult to injury, the mirror we have hanging there right now is a boring, black, rectangular frame from Ikea. Oh, and I accidentally drilled two holes straight through the wood, so that it looks extra "special". Dah!<br />
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People talk about buyers remorse, but I swear no one ever talks about un-buyers remorse. If only I'd pulled the trigger!!<br />
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Has this ever happened to you?Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-10664908182800770172014-09-02T09:00:00.000-07:002014-09-02T09:00:02.250-07:00Moody Ocean PrintsI'm currently in what seems to be a very slow process of re-doing the gallery wall in our bedroom. I just could not stomach the mis-matched (and scratched up) frames that were originally hung, and the art didn't seem to jive all-together. I want all the frames to be a single color so it doesn't seem so scattered, and I plan on replacing some of the art that is currently up there.<br />
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While I re-work the frames, and the layout on the wall, I'm on the hunt for some cool prints. In our bedroom, we have various shades of blue, grey, and teal, and I want to bring these colors into the art in the gallery wall, keeping with a moodier, cool color palette. Nothing too happy, bright, or playful.<br />
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I toyed with the idea of all black and white prints or photographs, but I think that might be a bit too boring unless I did the frames all gold - an idea which Kris wasn't loving. I think he could love it after it was done, but I think I abused the gold a bit in our last apartment, so I'm going to initially try a more understated route with the frames. I think I'm going to do all grey frames and if it's too boring down the line, perhaps gold... or even navy might be fun. <br />
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Inspiration started with this first print, and kind of snowballed from there........<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcYdNokaQUkVytW3InG1BveQEeCW24JQnybHWSAEvVoGAyuHQORU9eBd_xi6mjh0p8wYZWTv8Id5ivfW3ClhZC-AkEvkL3-AUZvZmgjsE2kvay65GzKNdZqiQ5MHspnGQUF1VrpTYI5S_R/s1600/e34d5dfbde2c2dd36c979b903965a6a6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcYdNokaQUkVytW3InG1BveQEeCW24JQnybHWSAEvVoGAyuHQORU9eBd_xi6mjh0p8wYZWTv8Id5ivfW3ClhZC-AkEvkL3-AUZvZmgjsE2kvay65GzKNdZqiQ5MHspnGQUF1VrpTYI5S_R/s1600/e34d5dfbde2c2dd36c979b903965a6a6.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://0ce4n-g0d.tumblr.com/post/94065769049/moody-mornings-by-anthony-renna" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/inseguendoilbianconiglio/3558393025/in/faves-inspire_me_365/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/inseguendoilbianconiglio/3558393025/in/faves-inspire_me_365/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZrw3ABG4GDuLNV0ACSonEVppi0u1ippV5ccjIehpWR67xa8H4VCcu8wkiNfVU_ivyhWsRn-It9yKAbJrc4iX6WMODw-0JCIcHcLokSQZ4vW8Hkc0yKnAGP9Uri4BHQH2gK4-Hpnighkj/s1600/530af044d4bea7af0d1aad19bcdb236c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZrw3ABG4GDuLNV0ACSonEVppi0u1ippV5ccjIehpWR67xa8H4VCcu8wkiNfVU_ivyhWsRn-It9yKAbJrc4iX6WMODw-0JCIcHcLokSQZ4vW8Hkc0yKnAGP9Uri4BHQH2gK4-Hpnighkj/s1600/530af044d4bea7af0d1aad19bcdb236c.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://you-yeahyou.tumblr.com/page/3" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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So my question for all of you... is all the moody ocean photography too much together? There are a few prints we have hanging right now that I do love by Claire Elsaesser that these would coordinate with, but I'm worried that more than one will be overkill? Should I stick with one? Do you have a favorite?<br />
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Thoughts?Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-54468858945676376292014-08-28T09:00:00.000-07:002014-08-28T09:00:02.998-07:00Indoor Plants - the Olive Tree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJVN1Cv0v27qbuXD8JBa2bjpv3GbVxcpI_j4A2KApxAVzgXCR2z8ngV0oTQ6y5V55jqRiNtN-ntFSa6Ynz1e0Cf_jwFMhNPNrA61W-tvHvcYLF7Bl5Eji2nJEzzDX2irpOTwlCKAbjzsJ/s1600/3200faffe5dec94573b29256a6583511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJVN1Cv0v27qbuXD8JBa2bjpv3GbVxcpI_j4A2KApxAVzgXCR2z8ngV0oTQ6y5V55jqRiNtN-ntFSa6Ynz1e0Cf_jwFMhNPNrA61W-tvHvcYLF7Bl5Eji2nJEzzDX2irpOTwlCKAbjzsJ/s1600/3200faffe5dec94573b29256a6583511.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://cotedetexas.blogspot.com/2011/10/inspiring-tale-and-pillows-too.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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If I could pick the number one thing that I have learned in the past several years while decorating our home, it would be that no matter how good your taste is... how much you accessorize a table, or bookshelf, or how lovely all your furniture is, a room never feels truly complete, or alive, or even as beautiful as it possibly could, without a plant.</div>
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Not even kidding. As soon as I brought our first live plant home, and saw how the added greenery changed that room, I've made a conscious effort to bring more plants home. Not cut flowers - which I do love - I'm talking about a live plant.</div>
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For the past several years, I've been ALL ABOUT the fiddle leaf fig. Totally drank the cool-aid, and as much as I still do love them, I've been on the hunt for equally beautiful, dramatic indoor plants to bring home, and guess what my friends?? I think I've found it...</div>
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The Olive Tree.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz-fwe4DNG6JIIdZ3J4e6PpH0gBxA86jFa7ZKY63Gsd9aaDDfTA5Ak6vqGuD-r9EeK90Ruxt269IaSLRO_YV8AFukJnC7lbd7JY2HRk5CmDV6D8u6hzADLK2A7-amFE2z_bY4CGwbxuqi-/s1600/04b156e9726509fa69b6949a10040e90.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz-fwe4DNG6JIIdZ3J4e6PpH0gBxA86jFa7ZKY63Gsd9aaDDfTA5Ak6vqGuD-r9EeK90Ruxt269IaSLRO_YV8AFukJnC7lbd7JY2HRk5CmDV6D8u6hzADLK2A7-amFE2z_bY4CGwbxuqi-/s1600/04b156e9726509fa69b6949a10040e90.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://vibekedesign.blogspot.nl/search?updated-max=2013-05-09T00:11:00-07:00&max-results=7&start=8&by-date=false" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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I love that the dwarf olive tree is a little like a topiary with the round leafy top, and the tall spindly trunk. The grey-green leaves are more subtle, and earthy, and I just love how they look in these clean, minimalist spaces.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgofFrYaPgepcBu3c5CnnngQPcsMffO848WLz7b-mqKR3Q_QSrA7vKSJOUGMYLusoPdhot6RIlO9wGVfqSMYNeLnH0TNwOrglU08JZj7a0BjHnJ-ivwYjr5p4ujQkPt6neTLcqrrbhMkIBh/s1600/334d4a79937c0c35c70cb2f32510fbd4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgofFrYaPgepcBu3c5CnnngQPcsMffO848WLz7b-mqKR3Q_QSrA7vKSJOUGMYLusoPdhot6RIlO9wGVfqSMYNeLnH0TNwOrglU08JZj7a0BjHnJ-ivwYjr5p4ujQkPt6neTLcqrrbhMkIBh/s1600/334d4a79937c0c35c70cb2f32510fbd4.jpg" height="640" width="420" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://elisabethheier.blogspot.com.es/2013/11/off-to-paris.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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The above picture is one of my favorite images of all time. It was the background on my phone to remind me to simplify, and to remind me how lovely a clean slate can look.</div>
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I really like how the rustic look of these mini trees are still elegant while being a little wild.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOg-vfWbjHtc96GcSWF-Oh13-DcdLjTJgs8GEfHJBLgNUdH6SeQd67_mHP8SUwf73og485kUKjCYMK4p0ISldXSreiNkvq6KGnIuGT7V9ef-Hw96xSz0oBrors-nwYYNB_mlPrqLqGuPv/s1600/c65627663fd6c4b2131cf1407b7d5b72.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOg-vfWbjHtc96GcSWF-Oh13-DcdLjTJgs8GEfHJBLgNUdH6SeQd67_mHP8SUwf73og485kUKjCYMK4p0ISldXSreiNkvq6KGnIuGT7V9ef-Hw96xSz0oBrors-nwYYNB_mlPrqLqGuPv/s1600/c65627663fd6c4b2131cf1407b7d5b72.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/originals/c6/56/27/c65627663fd6c4b2131cf1407b7d5b72.jpg" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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Can't you also imagine these flanking a fireplace, or being dolled up for the holidays?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_VM5MOG0FSgeMSO1dGOpYHLyEFz7E269kMcBDM-IxB2LWngUDvBbBj5CvSetI76iRsvqWSRdONf36aleldR1U4Umj7ZsEXIosnP_BzJo3FPNwNCKIlBr6jX_k4tDBMQDADS1K_QSrPL8Y/s1600/6444c1f5655dac59eb43532b90a0d0b6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_VM5MOG0FSgeMSO1dGOpYHLyEFz7E269kMcBDM-IxB2LWngUDvBbBj5CvSetI76iRsvqWSRdONf36aleldR1U4Umj7ZsEXIosnP_BzJo3FPNwNCKIlBr6jX_k4tDBMQDADS1K_QSrPL8Y/s1600/6444c1f5655dac59eb43532b90a0d0b6.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.vosgesparis.com/search?updated-max=2013-05-14T07:00:00%2B02:00&max-results=5" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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I did a little research already, and apparently they can do well indoors in a pot - they can't sit in very wet soil, so be careful when potting originally to use a more arid soil that will drain... they also like to be rotated in direct sunlight, but overall, they seem like they could be a real contender for an indoor plant.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdgTkB3yZ-2zAOYUXWmKRvCJe2CF80iHmDEU0s74PG56BdU1Cw12KeQmtTjUrawI6KFz1x4xBaYOoZNXJB-EgdIK_lhPRae_y7qb0bLeRNh68EWW2pgjlccfRKfi7IYRc0GIledR0v4hv/s1600/df305d42b85cd19325721d3395720d87.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdgTkB3yZ-2zAOYUXWmKRvCJe2CF80iHmDEU0s74PG56BdU1Cw12KeQmtTjUrawI6KFz1x4xBaYOoZNXJB-EgdIK_lhPRae_y7qb0bLeRNh68EWW2pgjlccfRKfi7IYRc0GIledR0v4hv/s1600/df305d42b85cd19325721d3395720d87.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://elisabethheier.blogspot.com.es/2014/02/kom-varen.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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Anyone have any expertise on the subject here?? This <strike>notorious plant killer</strike> novice plant care-taker would love to know!!!Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-44465922396835453372014-08-26T09:00:00.000-07:002014-08-26T09:00:04.351-07:00Curtained Bed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy Tuesday friends! Wanted to pop in today to talk about bedrooms - most specifically about curtained beds.</div>
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Often, curtains surrounding a bed is associated with the old fashioned canopy bed of the 80's - oh what the eight-year-old version of myself would have given for a canopy bed... unfortunately, that's not quite what I'm referring to. </div>
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I'm referring to the revamped version of the traditional canopy bed - the new version where the curtains meet the ceiling, and cocoon the bed while remaining fully detached from any bed frame.</div>
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Still not sure what I'm referring to??</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI5xb6ATjrQ0DNsF_qnS3apT1G_vjrwK7SM65DyN7aNG1EiypOg2BrGz5OK9ogOwVwSGvF4Ex_pOkn_GnsZXCwETfCHYaiyeB8vYZFYE5Nq6eRSLyglOGKL6wd3ajwm4cNWXZ5k7lQ3eGl/s1600/bd7bbe3fadea37d485db3e16ce0ac9e7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI5xb6ATjrQ0DNsF_qnS3apT1G_vjrwK7SM65DyN7aNG1EiypOg2BrGz5OK9ogOwVwSGvF4Ex_pOkn_GnsZXCwETfCHYaiyeB8vYZFYE5Nq6eRSLyglOGKL6wd3ajwm4cNWXZ5k7lQ3eGl/s1600/bd7bbe3fadea37d485db3e16ce0ac9e7.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://myscandinavianhome.blogspot.se/2014/08/the-home-of-dutch-design-duo.html" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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See what I mean? </div>
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The curtains are actually connected to a track or curtain rod that is attached to the ceiling, and these new curtained beds offer the softness and same cozy effect as the more traditional canopy bed, without the closed-in, borderline claustrophobic feeling that they sometimes give.</div>
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<a href="http://www.bellemaison23.com/2013/06/cozy-outdoor-living-for-small-spaces.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed:+bellemaison23/kzZx+(belle+maison)" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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I'm 100% in love with our upholstered headboard, but I do really love the look of these - especially with the white or lighter shades in the curtains. </div>
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So clean, and light feeling, and while a canopy bed can feel a little stuffy, and overly traditional, these actually feel quite modern.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExOppQJviH6_OwUtT5fNTjS95lgy3F-6MAFXsTKfnntRfG6wmnq_fY0Jw2sEPW3uGq-cwIGcw4fxIMD3CkL7aEDUufoLuM0ORObEdoXU778MO_pmAyJL7Zn2yNSOBJowDcmUL13c_hCKb/s1600/c3a846e59ac7c0c4025fef2f115e52e2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExOppQJviH6_OwUtT5fNTjS95lgy3F-6MAFXsTKfnntRfG6wmnq_fY0Jw2sEPW3uGq-cwIGcw4fxIMD3CkL7aEDUufoLuM0ORObEdoXU778MO_pmAyJL7Zn2yNSOBJowDcmUL13c_hCKb/s1600/c3a846e59ac7c0c4025fef2f115e52e2.jpg" height="618" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.remodelista.com/posts/diy-ceiling-mounted-bed-curtains" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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What I love most, is that they seem relatively easy to install, and inexpensive.</div>
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They would be fabulous in a studio apartment, for separating the "bedroom" from common living spaces, or even in an open loft space, where it can be really tricky to carve out each "room" from a wide open floorplan.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNN2a1snZjpx3SkWhntkvoQ8yZf9x5G-u40SLMsnM4UXQH2kHAFLCFp2Qzuu1mnj_RbHeV77CdoxtiuyM0YNilB3TmZ7i-ZZiCFLrKyJIqEFjhSPN1uF4Aj9FBZ2mF41pHAmH4IH5JJeIt/s1600/dbb87225779cdf10c064efc861ccf642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNN2a1snZjpx3SkWhntkvoQ8yZf9x5G-u40SLMsnM4UXQH2kHAFLCFp2Qzuu1mnj_RbHeV77CdoxtiuyM0YNilB3TmZ7i-ZZiCFLrKyJIqEFjhSPN1uF4Aj9FBZ2mF41pHAmH4IH5JJeIt/s1600/dbb87225779cdf10c064efc861ccf642.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/peggy/brilliant-ways-to-make-a-small-space-more-livable#3ab3l5w" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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The other thing about using curtains to flank a bed that I really love, is that you can save some serious money on the bed itself. </div>
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Headboards and bed frames are really pricey, so this would be a really great option for those on a budget, who are looking to make a large impact in their bedroom without spending a fortune.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfEpQznj_e_kIpVWsVLHR5dsljKFiuBTDd-on6etAvbBzJAlwbz77xLvobpsWCvOrIN663i99be23DbAzPl_eFHL6OpFOuSnz-v6hw7i8kdEjhHCLOwsSky399Es97275Fj8j6ua50iwEN/s1600/c835dd7d1dff09e145e8025319a8e8ec.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfEpQznj_e_kIpVWsVLHR5dsljKFiuBTDd-on6etAvbBzJAlwbz77xLvobpsWCvOrIN663i99be23DbAzPl_eFHL6OpFOuSnz-v6hw7i8kdEjhHCLOwsSky399Es97275Fj8j6ua50iwEN/s1600/c835dd7d1dff09e145e8025319a8e8ec.jpg" height="640" width="512" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.happyroostblog.com/?f" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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All you need are some sturdy curtain rods, curtains (or sheers even), and a standard bed-frame, box spring, and mattress. </div>
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I'd also encourage the use of a dust ruffle to hide the less than attractive metal bed frame - something simple like the one in the photo above would be perfect.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvDb5_mHL_Uquu0Q2HmEQOzvXzM8wlyMG91hIe4fCbhmv8Kqtw3r6BnUhXl3jvsXU_5ay23I0jP5l5dwiIbb-v9lKI6ByPAG5v14XO2_rgzwNePnuRhdC8dFzb-2eoWno9S10qMhQlFnO/s1600/234446c873b292ceb61597566d9941a1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlvDb5_mHL_Uquu0Q2HmEQOzvXzM8wlyMG91hIe4fCbhmv8Kqtw3r6BnUhXl3jvsXU_5ay23I0jP5l5dwiIbb-v9lKI6ByPAG5v14XO2_rgzwNePnuRhdC8dFzb-2eoWno9S10qMhQlFnO/s1600/234446c873b292ceb61597566d9941a1.jpg" height="640" width="490" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.peachskinsheets.com/collections/color-of-the-month" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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On average, the cost of a queen size headboard or bed would range from $800 to upwards of several thousand dollars, whereas if you shop smart for the materials you'd need for a curtained off bed, you could pull off this project for less than $200 easily. Depending on the hardware, you could even swing it for less than $150. </div>
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What's great is that the curtains take the place of a headboard, footboard, and bed frame, and make it feel really grand, and expensive. If I were to do this, I'd probably stick with lighter fabric for the curtains, but there are several different styles for this that I've seen and like. The trick is to find curtain panels long enough to go from floor to ceiling - if the curtains are too short, it's a no-go.</div>
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Ikea is a fabulous source for curtains - some of my favorites are <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10218089/" target="_blank">these curtains</a> for the lighter linen look. I actually have them hanging in our living room (white) and dining room (light grey), and I just love them. They are thick without being too thick, they are quite long (98" which would accommodate an 8' ceiling - add curtain rings for extra length) and they have a really nice organic texture. </div>
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This person actually used the Aina for this exact project (<a href="http://houseandhome.com/blogs/house-home-daily/top-5-bargain-finds" target="_blank">link here</a>):</div>
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<i> **I think I might make the curtain rods just slightly longer so the curtains hang straight down... they look a bit short which is resulting in a bit of a "leaned" feel...</i></div>
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I also like these <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40230198/" target="_blank">heavier velvet curtains</a> for a deeper, cozier feel.... and hey, if they are good enough for <a href="http://stylebyemilyhenderson.com/blog/secrets-to-inexpensive-but-good-drapery/" target="_blank">Emily Henderson</a>, they're good enough for the rest of us!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9XiUnT8bS-FEnJGyAX6pWKe6593SaP4PT1YzVgzsD47uWdVT7ovoi3Tesqg8kd4mJEEED76ySx15nVSAOP99p7egSx9Gnj05gPkHGLGjXHLjApYcyIayGW_y19HI6ptgoF3eHl4L0XeI/s1600/curtains1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9XiUnT8bS-FEnJGyAX6pWKe6593SaP4PT1YzVgzsD47uWdVT7ovoi3Tesqg8kd4mJEEED76ySx15nVSAOP99p7egSx9Gnj05gPkHGLGjXHLjApYcyIayGW_y19HI6ptgoF3eHl4L0XeI/s1600/curtains1.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40210925/" target="_blank">These curtains</a> would be really fun in a child's bedroom flanking a bed... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUl8ud9YvNud5jz3t5N_MrZSWm2_od8z-BMT4V_PJHL3bJqbt0ud30b3nWjvSH2JcPZkEaEMuqoFQwgZxquhgLuznvRSf7Spwn7qC1HtH-gj8UjhMkDZ8jAFr-NkNQm2GvuaoTvHOd_XwV/s1600/eivor-curtains--pair__0148619_PE290659_S4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUl8ud9YvNud5jz3t5N_MrZSWm2_od8z-BMT4V_PJHL3bJqbt0ud30b3nWjvSH2JcPZkEaEMuqoFQwgZxquhgLuznvRSf7Spwn7qC1HtH-gj8UjhMkDZ8jAFr-NkNQm2GvuaoTvHOd_XwV/s1600/eivor-curtains--pair__0148619_PE290659_S4.JPG" height="640" width="462" /></a></div>
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Aren't they just darling?</div>
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I'm also no expert, but I feel like they'd create a really peaceful place for nap time. Heck, maybe I'll start adopting the daily nap if I got to sleep in a light and airy, curtained off bed.</div>
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What do you think? Would you ever try out a curtained bed? </div>
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It seems like it would be so peaceful to be able to close the curtains, and for light sleepers who are easily bothered by light, this seems like an ideal solution to me!</div>
Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-16442376596760251172014-08-12T09:00:00.000-07:002014-08-12T17:13:18.047-07:00Dark Moody RoomsGood morning friends!! The last several posts I've had are mainly about progress on our own apartment, but I've been thinking a lot about dark moody rooms.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcDlbbRx4NpagIy0zfusDtv8Gsatx0l1i7InOBGwL65l70zw33-svHtRCqmHckVjOYC45T1SoIrxFpvB0l2GlL3DXEAxrCctbC0vO70FrKuKadVEoXEijoWdr7ke-_MlwGzF3zbGWQ7bqU/s1600/77fe95ceab7be23ee10c44d6ef6e5308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcDlbbRx4NpagIy0zfusDtv8Gsatx0l1i7InOBGwL65l70zw33-svHtRCqmHckVjOYC45T1SoIrxFpvB0l2GlL3DXEAxrCctbC0vO70FrKuKadVEoXEijoWdr7ke-_MlwGzF3zbGWQ7bqU/s1600/77fe95ceab7be23ee10c44d6ef6e5308.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://menmadeho.me/2014/06/22/living-room-decorating-ideas-on-a-budget-love-this-ideas-for-the-living-room-grey-and-silver-theme/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
Maybe it's because all the fall clothes have hit the stores and I'm waiting for the perfect opportunity to bust out my new faux fur vest. Maybe it's because it's been foggy and cold in San Francisco, and the drippy, dreary days have me ready to hibernate and think about pumpkin spiced lattes, and cozy nights, and big glasses of red wine while the wind howls outside. Or maybe, these rooms are just so beautiful and I can't resist.<br />
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Don't get me wrong, I'm still craving warm weather and summer nights, but mentally I'm in the fall mindset. Don't you think there is something so inviting about a dark moody room? It is an invitation for dim light, candles and ambiance.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnbQ3RhvWvIWAbVCSUEMr_8du1YyjtLQgCKiHGddVn_aEGHZGNQvm9Hg-LKg5KGFF1xHf3AyVZNYcZCR-gsAUfE5U2C5n-LiLYsPZdoUalWShuFWLjXqtfZ8tSCvxs0uRw0HvyeVDveSfT/s1600/fcbb88fe33b27d4cbf3f6f720dc8b220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnbQ3RhvWvIWAbVCSUEMr_8du1YyjtLQgCKiHGddVn_aEGHZGNQvm9Hg-LKg5KGFF1xHf3AyVZNYcZCR-gsAUfE5U2C5n-LiLYsPZdoUalWShuFWLjXqtfZ8tSCvxs0uRw0HvyeVDveSfT/s1600/fcbb88fe33b27d4cbf3f6f720dc8b220.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/viewer?blog=1732996&post=1783710871" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
It's probably (definitely) not something I'll be trying out in our current apartment, mainly because our place is not super large, and because all the rooms are pretty open to one another, but I'm really into this look - dark walls, dark furniture. IF (and that's a big IF) I were to test this in our current place, it would probably be in our bedroom since it's the most separate from the rest of the house, and because the dark walls, and dark furniture would feel really calm, cozy, and sleep inducing.<br />
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Normally, you'll find rooms with dark walls and lighter furniture, or lighter walls and dark furniture, but I'm loving the combination of dark with dark.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxlJqBagbuZPPwmD_Qmz0Xi3tU45so8_f4Z0dB8r62v5JxwjWHPS6XDe0zWLzBkL4TLnk8az3_889gmE6aECFf9yk0x1WvbiOzWZLH-22t_CMSQV8v0R3PJPpKbVmzkfLkmhKGv53PSt6/s1600/ce8c93ba9357513d11fac1587fbdb771.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtxlJqBagbuZPPwmD_Qmz0Xi3tU45so8_f4Z0dB8r62v5JxwjWHPS6XDe0zWLzBkL4TLnk8az3_889gmE6aECFf9yk0x1WvbiOzWZLH-22t_CMSQV8v0R3PJPpKbVmzkfLkmhKGv53PSt6/s1600/ce8c93ba9357513d11fac1587fbdb771.jpg" height="640" width="428" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://designtraveller.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2011-08-23T22:34:00%2B02:00&max-results=7" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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I'm also finding that the rooms I love best with this dark on dark use rather monochromatic hues - the first picture (and one of my favorite spaces in general) has the ink curtains next to the ink sofa, next to the dark grey window frames, and everything is on top of the inky purple rug.</div>
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In the photo above, everything is painted in the same dark taupe. And below the walls, and rug are nearly the same shade of grey.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdQXtxRdE2JgtjQP93UTDJz1ErHpBsHQkXhNstMfYyYtoL91e0x2YySkOTwWiOoZWKW_yUoSeGelSzhMe8-f6D3zh2g4i7-9aRuKo2AdGV54T1EgAvN3rMW4946tPF6mzc35k0c3pQukrW/s1600/0f339c1b4c07f4b71137008536f6946a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdQXtxRdE2JgtjQP93UTDJz1ErHpBsHQkXhNstMfYyYtoL91e0x2YySkOTwWiOoZWKW_yUoSeGelSzhMe8-f6D3zh2g4i7-9aRuKo2AdGV54T1EgAvN3rMW4946tPF6mzc35k0c3pQukrW/s1600/0f339c1b4c07f4b71137008536f6946a.jpg" height="436" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/213217363581704542/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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This next photo, the walls, columns and ceiling are the same shade of grey, and only the sofa and flowers bring color to the space.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvahDYvNLPhCekKka47ugrEPWZt-uanlzShHab-wRQ4sR-404UgFlXoXOcQKhSvixuCa8f5LT8KwLw4ugmGpCCxbMmu5IW4KMiB-y4j3_9sW-5nsjzmSS4A3Mo2CqmyfNPp8OD1Hc7gusA/s1600/f2e9b4215a37e31ec570d4c728530af7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvahDYvNLPhCekKka47ugrEPWZt-uanlzShHab-wRQ4sR-404UgFlXoXOcQKhSvixuCa8f5LT8KwLw4ugmGpCCxbMmu5IW4KMiB-y4j3_9sW-5nsjzmSS4A3Mo2CqmyfNPp8OD1Hc7gusA/s1600/f2e9b4215a37e31ec570d4c728530af7.jpg" height="640" width="436" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://thedecorista.tumblr.com/post/22864080013" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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What I find really interesting too about all of these spaces, is that they seem to work best with more traditional details. The moldings, and more ornate mirrors. Classically tailored sofas, chairs and ottomans, panel curtains, and a good dose of brass. </div>
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I think that these traditional elements keep these spaces from feeling cold, even through there is so much dark, and drama going on. They still feel inviting. They say, <i>come bring your cup of tea and tattered copy of Pride and Prejudice in here for the afternoon</i>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mR86ORko57B4krETaSNT7HAqwBVJQCUmA-7NtZ96k0JxHa4JomGDAVMgnA5r6AIhfEtFtnqdfSVuppAWb5ngJz5K-6H7Qn4JtvQ4Zie0iRH6FsXQPVh9E-HHEi4ffjg4yqe_gUqDWOyd/s1600/698cf812f7aceffd3ed27377a5b36518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1mR86ORko57B4krETaSNT7HAqwBVJQCUmA-7NtZ96k0JxHa4JomGDAVMgnA5r6AIhfEtFtnqdfSVuppAWb5ngJz5K-6H7Qn4JtvQ4Zie0iRH6FsXQPVh9E-HHEi4ffjg4yqe_gUqDWOyd/s1600/698cf812f7aceffd3ed27377a5b36518.jpg" height="640" width="512" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://habituallychic.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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What do you think?</div>
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Would you ever experiment with a dark and moody room in your own home?</div>
Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-19111968971744833632014-08-06T09:30:00.000-07:002014-08-06T09:30:00.729-07:00DIY Art - Gold Arrow Copy Cat<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi545K3DvQatEhcVEFfFvoPJOEoi7hxdHP6E-FUn0A9v1r-xCiOC-3Hl4u0S9fzl0jgS_XJ1ke2djWa-EOnC9dBc7RXHeO8QsVbCMLPnxCGkLg0xOJA3Ov8JFZgAQYztC_RSiLHKeOnNova/s1600/091b561e958221fc5b94eb2020c20cfb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi545K3DvQatEhcVEFfFvoPJOEoi7hxdHP6E-FUn0A9v1r-xCiOC-3Hl4u0S9fzl0jgS_XJ1ke2djWa-EOnC9dBc7RXHeO8QsVbCMLPnxCGkLg0xOJA3Ov8JFZgAQYztC_RSiLHKeOnNova/s1600/091b561e958221fc5b94eb2020c20cfb.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Hey friends!! Happy Wednesday :-)</div>
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Not sure if you remember, but a while back I'd posted about DIY art. It all started with the inspiration photo above from <a href="http://www.housetweaking.com/" target="_blank">House Tweaking</a>. Her post is great, but the comments... yowzers!! Apparently people had some harsh opinions about her having painted over one UGLY piece of art that she didn't love. I myself could not care less - especially since I LOVED how the arrow art came out. Clearly.</div>
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Loved it so much in fact that I recreated it for our own house!</div>
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May I present to you, my own version of the inverted arrow art...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoJlwT4am42nX2TyUvMQCDlUxCF4Q-Fly9JxBVRrSVVxP4vs7gkChie-HTrxHMKua-CvrwREDLqBKe87ZOoPFChkaHxdp6P3DzTAnPQPZCEGQIJArv_EqpkknVCEVCoQOLgnzaPW4n6_p/s1600/IMG_6219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoJlwT4am42nX2TyUvMQCDlUxCF4Q-Fly9JxBVRrSVVxP4vs7gkChie-HTrxHMKua-CvrwREDLqBKe87ZOoPFChkaHxdp6P3DzTAnPQPZCEGQIJArv_EqpkknVCEVCoQOLgnzaPW4n6_p/s1600/IMG_6219.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's not the easiest to photograph, especially when it's hanging on a wall in a room that is currently being used as a catch all storage area for things like empty boxes, a loveseat that we just sold, and wood. Lots and lots of wood that will soon become a planter for our deck.<br />
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I pushed some of the junk out of the way in an attempt to stage some pretty things around the art, and it was not my best effort... for sure... but you can totally see the paintings scale here. Its quite large.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVwip72j25lQP5Ic6SKHK1P_VAiqsKxgoqVeVHmfvanXHvOuFxr9H6yLVW6DM0t3llJxQ15KEGJabpPnQaRZVFRUcFUi2zDKChXYoUPhpoAvbKf3wpYZC8YDNWnpQLcM3FcyRKNNuyrqE/s1600/IMG_6204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKVwip72j25lQP5Ic6SKHK1P_VAiqsKxgoqVeVHmfvanXHvOuFxr9H6yLVW6DM0t3llJxQ15KEGJabpPnQaRZVFRUcFUi2zDKChXYoUPhpoAvbKf3wpYZC8YDNWnpQLcM3FcyRKNNuyrqE/s1600/IMG_6204.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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The canvas I used was actually re-purposed - my best friend left an old black and white stretched canvas print from Ikea when she moved across the country, and it made the perfect piece for me to experiment on. No one was going to miss that print.</div>
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So I painted over it. <br />
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Two coats of white got rolled on and after it dried, I went to work taping off my arrows. I did some vague measurements, since eyeballing the middle of a 40" canvas is not as easy as you'd think, and taped the arrows out.<br />
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I got a mix of gold paints - including a bronze, and two different shades of gold from the <a href="http://store.scrapbook.com/par-mst32105.html?utm_source=google-shopping-feed&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=google-free-shopping-feed&utm_content=par-mst32105&kw=par-mst32105&cmp=GSHOP&gclid=CjwKEAjwgYKfBRDvgJeylem9xDUSJACjeQ7AZIyzG7MhVtdhjC2QAXmwJThlm81FdFG0nksAd_69ZBoCS0bw_wcB" target="_blank">Martha Stewart line</a>. Not to diss Martha, but I was not impressed. All the metallic shades were flat (not metallic really at all) and the gold looked mustard-y to me. <br />
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Back to Michael's I went in search of the magical <a href="http://www.acehardware.com/product/index.jsp?productId=1415266&KPID=1174851&pla=pla_1174851" target="_blank">Liquid Leaf</a>. It's nice and shiny, and I've used it on projects before so I knew it would work well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFe-gCVGSzL7AAgtkccFUgYAUfxYEEYNXsIqnOO5NVuA2xFHxnfzE4y2OzSSbElbiMc9cGXc9WInNuh1MKrlxdm3Lbe_0sz9igEhf3aZsnAeOe_mTWFr-gjzCv2S0Vxl3z1dO9l421sCFl/s1600/IMG_6221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFe-gCVGSzL7AAgtkccFUgYAUfxYEEYNXsIqnOO5NVuA2xFHxnfzE4y2OzSSbElbiMc9cGXc9WInNuh1MKrlxdm3Lbe_0sz9igEhf3aZsnAeOe_mTWFr-gjzCv2S0Vxl3z1dO9l421sCFl/s1600/IMG_6221.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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You can see close up that I painted it on thicker in some areas for more dimension - sort of a 3-D gold effect, and it looks really pretty in different lights.<br />
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The gold leaf paint dries in minutes, so I peeled the tape off as soon as I finished, and that was that. Insta-art!<br />
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I'm certainly no artist, but it was fun to play the part one foggy afternoon a few weeks ago. </div>
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And better yet, we now have a virtually free piece of art that is a nice focal point in our <strike>junk room</strike> office.</div>
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And even better still, we didn't have to throw out a perfectly good canvas even though we didn't like the art, so I like to think we're also saving the environment... even just a little...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOMPVd9EvgKWGVGhtFQRwSjcs96vR6CdBxD-LnJGn6fU5lVzLqnENNC039fB1CA24cptT04HrLXO6brr1nfhM8Yi8FSmMmdwLcR6JZwIvnEgu0Ug-IRp3URUsXlmjDyRr6YWjMiDiQ1Gnj/s1600/IMG_6217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOMPVd9EvgKWGVGhtFQRwSjcs96vR6CdBxD-LnJGn6fU5lVzLqnENNC039fB1CA24cptT04HrLXO6brr1nfhM8Yi8FSmMmdwLcR6JZwIvnEgu0Ug-IRp3URUsXlmjDyRr6YWjMiDiQ1Gnj/s1600/IMG_6217.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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So easy! Happy Wednesday friends!Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-59976840157871406152014-07-25T09:00:00.000-07:002014-07-25T09:00:02.436-07:00Kitchen Inspiration for Phase II UpdatesHello friends!!<br />
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Thanks for all the kind words on our little kitchen facelift that I'd posted about earlier in the week!<br />
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So far, the grout paint is holding up really well! We've had it for about a month now, and so far so good - we cook / clean a lot, so we're not being gentle on these counter-tops by any means. I'll keep you posted though on how it wears long term.<br />
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In my last post, I'd mentioned that this was "Phase I" of the kitchen update... part of me is still debating if we need a Phase II, but here's a little hint about what I've been dabbling with for a potential Phase II...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrt0CQsLD1h0Wd2xPfBfOtT4jDZ2H4pvlnbpG_nyc0gcYmyr9529KX1hfkfayUcRUPDtyOrdSVsOgScRlr94iC4ocE2RMPKWlJOgkvGJeUnV1WpcojzeBBIcHns-dJEYjpuOL2ODHAq_K/s1600/162abddc9e363dcc91cd9f08e533f35d+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrt0CQsLD1h0Wd2xPfBfOtT4jDZ2H4pvlnbpG_nyc0gcYmyr9529KX1hfkfayUcRUPDtyOrdSVsOgScRlr94iC4ocE2RMPKWlJOgkvGJeUnV1WpcojzeBBIcHns-dJEYjpuOL2ODHAq_K/s1600/162abddc9e363dcc91cd9f08e533f35d+(1).jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/294493263105864037/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWF7xE-d4eEZDjCsLk_hINOwgBhsQZeskmjJ6jq7Z1ETbYr2befvWX4Xl6PSOh41IFdCNbrM34P8kcZVyFSN4pG5xsllZUyHco-87cBdtWksEHOkhnPJduVLUSl5umZKYmMW6zDzoy2Tu7/s1600/19a98dcd0c41d99a798c3accd551b5b0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWF7xE-d4eEZDjCsLk_hINOwgBhsQZeskmjJ6jq7Z1ETbYr2befvWX4Xl6PSOh41IFdCNbrM34P8kcZVyFSN4pG5xsllZUyHco-87cBdtWksEHOkhnPJduVLUSl5umZKYmMW6zDzoy2Tu7/s1600/19a98dcd0c41d99a798c3accd551b5b0.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.twotwentyone.net/2013/04/kitchen-revamp/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiwFPRLQPtNmvqTK5PXbWbVmAZ5WMq4Zx99uy9ffAH_iRH9fGToXkTCnXiU7v93Ho6LV78V5i_8RPZoJXSymWMuhyfeyQA21S2Vux8gTQtsx07ZFtijuv48LBdy0-jWFcBkULcUUW_kO1c/s1600/697503a869505dd32bfbf689bb2d933d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiwFPRLQPtNmvqTK5PXbWbVmAZ5WMq4Zx99uy9ffAH_iRH9fGToXkTCnXiU7v93Ho6LV78V5i_8RPZoJXSymWMuhyfeyQA21S2Vux8gTQtsx07ZFtijuv48LBdy0-jWFcBkULcUUW_kO1c/s1600/697503a869505dd32bfbf689bb2d933d.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/1200x/2b/df/f7/2bdff739b180d53457f20be1a4deb441.jpg" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpeT10KGlX4vpoPfyyxhIGfQz0yn-yp9EF7tX1Nobj5s5T-2Oc82ZcnUr8QWNQHbMx0oe-T4zsUZ7XtSCihG9TrODDj6y9Hmz9XQAhuuArfYlileycUGDMaipPT3rZtkEns8wXuPHZgBB/s1600/5642078345e8896b127c55de8fa0155b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpeT10KGlX4vpoPfyyxhIGfQz0yn-yp9EF7tX1Nobj5s5T-2Oc82ZcnUr8QWNQHbMx0oe-T4zsUZ7XtSCihG9TrODDj6y9Hmz9XQAhuuArfYlileycUGDMaipPT3rZtkEns8wXuPHZgBB/s1600/5642078345e8896b127c55de8fa0155b.jpg" height="640" width="436" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://warmdecor.com/2013/11/05/kitchen-baking-area-with-open-shelving-and-two-toned-cabinets/" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/50491685@N04/4660722753/in/photostream/?rb=1" target="_blank">Source</a></div>
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Don't you just love???</div>
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Obviously these kitchens are all so lovely, and I would just be making superficial updates to our dated kitchen from the '80's (we rent!) but there is a lot we could do to doll it up a bit...</div>
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I adore the look of dark lowers and light upper cabinets - it's like a tuxedo... but not.</div>
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The reason I've been toying with this is that our kitchen is feeling really "white" - this isn't a bad thing considering before the few updates I've made, it was feeling really "yellow", but with the white tile counters, the white cabinets, the white appliances and the white floor, I think dark lower cabinets would look really nice.</div>
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This is what things are looking like now:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoGpjOW6PxYGhFaUGv4TggKzR8rh4YQ7X9ASYL3V6WxCzQK6Nku77mcX6oxgnU3JsezHYxsJD-np4V_KOX_IxilsPa9BzhiImoQoyQJw5np2zfaG6cFtRT1r-cTk7ip8ZHHv6cAk0UR7or/s1600/IMG_6245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoGpjOW6PxYGhFaUGv4TggKzR8rh4YQ7X9ASYL3V6WxCzQK6Nku77mcX6oxgnU3JsezHYxsJD-np4V_KOX_IxilsPa9BzhiImoQoyQJw5np2zfaG6cFtRT1r-cTk7ip8ZHHv6cAk0UR7or/s1600/IMG_6245.JPG" height="640" width="414" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqUC4AlEZiWMg2r8dGy7wjM1LLJD5tbEuDJ25ILNoFaDah15T-oiy2Z1k9ueWrpDYAUKslVQpCSVBHqikqGZ2Nw9gqoesqColQ5YlZk6_FNQrvjN8tL3lF-OvLowO7TxRACmbES4BKJM_a/s1600/IMG_6255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqUC4AlEZiWMg2r8dGy7wjM1LLJD5tbEuDJ25ILNoFaDah15T-oiy2Z1k9ueWrpDYAUKslVQpCSVBHqikqGZ2Nw9gqoesqColQ5YlZk6_FNQrvjN8tL3lF-OvLowO7TxRACmbES4BKJM_a/s1600/IMG_6255.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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Don't get me wrong, I think this is a great place to be considering where we started, but don't you think dark grey lower cabinets would look really good???</div>
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There are other things I want to work on before painting these lowers - like painting the bathroom which will be super challenging to cut in around the sink, the multiple windows and doors, and get in behind the toilet - but it's a thought.</div>
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Another idea I've been dabbling with for the kitchen... more grout paint... but this time on the floor. Same situation - white tile (it's linoleum, but is made to look like marble) but with that hideous dark grout! We have two large jute area rugs to mask all those gridlines (it makes you dizzy!) but I'd love for the floor grout to be white too. If I am crazy enough to attempt this, then the kitchen really will be white on white on white, with more white, so the lowers will almost NEED to be painted.</div>
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Right??</div>
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Am I crazy to be thinking about this? Possibly... but I somehow can't stop thinking about it!</div>
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Ok, so this is admittedly not my finest attempt at rendering something, but what do you think...</div>
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I'm thinking... me likey....</div>
Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-58476150878185488952014-07-22T16:26:00.000-07:002014-07-22T16:26:29.215-07:00Kitchen Counter Makeover - Painted Grout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So our kitchen got a bit of a makeover recently!! Actually, "a bit of a makeover" is an understatement. The tile counter-tops got a total face-lift thanks to some industrial strength grout paint. This whole space is feeling dramatically different than it did when we moved in and I hardly spent a dime doing the updates.</div>
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<br />I finally got around to snapping some pictures of all the progress I've made on our kitchen today, and cannot wait to share the before and after's with you! I'm calling this "Phase I" of our kitchen's makeover, and it's quite a dramatic transformation. </div>
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Here is what the kitchen looks like as of this afternoon:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwaY1vy0uAuzD2PZl-woNNBZeJiK-l53Y_aiZAkQWnKPlPUlACbPb7YnW1T0ZhfznzLfLotMNfcVI9C8Kg2ilUEJXxiAWntdM0nD6tMVxj3SPRsZjIiXU6vxSMwR-NSP6ZCeeIfGE8DQI/s1600/IMG_6244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwaY1vy0uAuzD2PZl-woNNBZeJiK-l53Y_aiZAkQWnKPlPUlACbPb7YnW1T0ZhfznzLfLotMNfcVI9C8Kg2ilUEJXxiAWntdM0nD6tMVxj3SPRsZjIiXU6vxSMwR-NSP6ZCeeIfGE8DQI/s1600/IMG_6244.JPG" height="414" width="640" /></a></div>
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Trust me when I say that this is a dramatic improvement from where we started!</div>
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It now feels bright and clean, and so much newer and modern than it did just a few weeks ago. All I did was paint. Paint on the walls, and paint on the grout. Sounds weird, but grout paint is a thing. I used a different brand for our shower a few months back, and while I was happy with those results at the time, I had no idea that there were better products out there.</div>
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After doing some research I discovered a product called <a href="http://www.custombuildingproducts.com/products/grout-materials/grout-colorant/polyblend-grout-renew.aspx" target="_blank">Polyblend Grout Renew</a>. </div>
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<img src="http://varietythespiceoflife.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Polyblend-Grout-Renew.jpg" /></div>
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I'm telling you, this stuff is life changing. It has AMAZING reviews online, and two of my favorite bloggers from <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2014/01/how-you-like-me-now-grout/" target="_blank">Young House Love, used it on the tile entryway</a> of their new home. Apparently its holding up to foot traffic, so I knew I had a good shot using it on our counters. This particular brand of grout paint has a sealer built into it, so I wasn't as worried about doing a light color on the grout as I would have been otherwise.</div>
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<br />Ok, so before I get into the process of how to apply the paint, and revamp old, disgusting grout to your heart's content, let's see a few "before" pics... shall we?</div>
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So this is what the kitchen counters looked like when we started the process...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHcMYqKN79cVTo2FfLuTg6l64t6CBcTlFSlK24mLS5A5EzOGkBsMvF4ZvnCov5MzQYuVIQ86wcvxYiNjzL65CEFlTHjiX3-CfnEftvYdqSXzfp_-mBj1ktLTJhtWxhr5sE3oPUcQNx8xU/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHcMYqKN79cVTo2FfLuTg6l64t6CBcTlFSlK24mLS5A5EzOGkBsMvF4ZvnCov5MzQYuVIQ86wcvxYiNjzL65CEFlTHjiX3-CfnEftvYdqSXzfp_-mBj1ktLTJhtWxhr5sE3oPUcQNx8xU/s1600/unnamed.jpg" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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Woof.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4mYKSmLPqw_Zhb5ayemWaFQBCKV5x2Xa3nFCyhIHb5dfkOnamFGdB2vHOdjxea9xhHjxh6AFXxtn_BKyGhknIqNHGYEM27idI68D-fBwNQcRhAMsOU_oVv9c1Bw_isgvkz6xhcjYwN5o/s1600/unnamed+(5).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4mYKSmLPqw_Zhb5ayemWaFQBCKV5x2Xa3nFCyhIHb5dfkOnamFGdB2vHOdjxea9xhHjxh6AFXxtn_BKyGhknIqNHGYEM27idI68D-fBwNQcRhAMsOU_oVv9c1Bw_isgvkz6xhcjYwN5o/s1600/unnamed+(5).jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
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They were bad my friends. Like so bad, these pictures don't really do their grossness justice.<br />
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As you can see, the off-white tile had dark brown grout. Not an attractive combination.<br />
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The walls and back-splash were all yellowed out paint that only made said grout / tile look even worse. Everything about the combination of the paint and dark grout made the kitchen feel dirty and dated - very 80's, and not in a cute Cindy-Lauper-teased-hair-Breakfast-Club kind of way.<br />
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Before you can start painting the grout, first you have to clean it, and I'm not talking about wiping it down with a Clorox Disinfecting Wipe. You need to get <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Custom-Building-Products-TileLab-Sulfamic-Acid-Cleaner-1-Gal-TLSAC1/100171510" target="_blank">Sulfamic Acid Cleaner</a>. <i>What is this</i>, you ask? It's a very smelly, apparently toxic, cleaning agent that will lift YEARS of grime from your grout. I found this out first hand.<br />
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As a heads up, this is not a job you can knock out in one night - the cleaning took me several hours at least, and then you have to let the grout dry really well before painting, or the grout paint won't adhere. <br />
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Let's start by talking about the cleaning process... The container had good instructions on how to mix it up, but not much about what to do after, and I wasn't able to find much online, so here's what worked for me:<br />
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Wear gloves - don't try to do this without them. I also wore safety goggles because this stuff seemed pretty toxic and I value my vision. Once you're all suited up, get your grout wet with water so it will absorb the cleaner evenly. Then mix the Sulfamic Acid per the instructions on the container, and apply to counters with a sponge you will never use again. After applying it to the counters, everything happens pretty quickly. After a few minutes you'll notice things getting a little gummy. That's grease. And grime. And unidentifable grossness that has built up over time. This is supposed to happen. Let it. Once it's really gumming up, start scrubbing. I used a plastic bristle brush and it worked beautifully. Once the gummyness comes up, rinse with clean water. It's going to take a lot of water, and much more scrubbing, because the grease smears around. It doesn't just lift off like you think it will. It's all super fun (insert sarcasm here) but once its clean, you'll notice a difference. A HUGE difference. Your grout will literally be restored to its original color. Prepare yourself to be shocked. I thought the grout in here was dark brown. It was actually light brown - equally unattractive, and really really gross to think about.<br />
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Anyway, once the grout is clean, let it dry out - overnight at least - and then get to painting. Super simple. I used a stiff bristle toothbrush, and you just work the paint into the grout. It will get on the tile. You have two options - wipe it immediately, or let it dry and remove it later.<br />
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I started out doing option 1, and it was tedious. Especially since covering brown grout with white paint required two coats for full coverage (3 coats in some places). I found that it was easy enough to get off the tile after it was all dried. I actually let it cure for a few days, then got the counters wet, and the paint on the tiles literally rubbed off with a finger / paper towel. Soooo much easier than wiping as you go, but do what feels right.<br />
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Anyhoo, that's the whole process! I'm not going to lie, it was a bit back-breaking to lean over the counters, but I put on some good music, and spaced out. It's pretty mindless and easy except for the leaning over part, but it was 100% worth the outcome! Our kitchen feels brand new to me and so much fresher. In total, it took me about 3 nights to finish - one night to clean, one night to paint, and one night to clean the paint off the tiles where it went out of bounds.</div>
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Here are some more pictures of our kitchen counters after their facelift:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0FpelP6xvQtHe4qHBAiEZdTCKtt439bm4DhPfcyMn05IU-OqgzlGKVe2vMtUOEVJ5996oHp9oA7Z541I_l9U3PL6zr_pK8sGVgd0Ghz7czzGARVyNkRYhPuNm34pu3xM-nuOVPpPi4LRU/s1600/IMG_6252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0FpelP6xvQtHe4qHBAiEZdTCKtt439bm4DhPfcyMn05IU-OqgzlGKVe2vMtUOEVJ5996oHp9oA7Z541I_l9U3PL6zr_pK8sGVgd0Ghz7czzGARVyNkRYhPuNm34pu3xM-nuOVPpPi4LRU/s1600/IMG_6252.JPG" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv8vR4hQ-hXkl9FgYTGnSF-maQ0jmrJJQxpMR5xc3tulyI8PhQo9JwikPc2tjFLEdmZCJcu6b7yNklaNCFsJpOUUWXyjbLv7DaQBv9syq8GqQ0fsOIWFSkS-koPt6HwRu4T8owgSNFKAM5/s1600/IMG_6196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv8vR4hQ-hXkl9FgYTGnSF-maQ0jmrJJQxpMR5xc3tulyI8PhQo9JwikPc2tjFLEdmZCJcu6b7yNklaNCFsJpOUUWXyjbLv7DaQBv9syq8GqQ0fsOIWFSkS-koPt6HwRu4T8owgSNFKAM5/s1600/IMG_6196.JPG" height="422" width="640" /></a><br />
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Love!! It's LOVE!! After the counters were looking all clean and new, I decided the walls and back-splash needed some love too. Out came the paint, and a few hours later I was in a bright, clean grey and white haven.<br />
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The Polyblend Grout Renew Grout Paint comes in a bunch of different colors (and multiple shades of white), so I bought two and tested them out. I brought home the Antique White and the Snow White colors, because I didnt want the end result to look too white next to our off-white tile. The tiles started out looking really beige but it turned out that they were much more white than I originally thought. After testing both colors of grout paint, I ended up going with the Snow White (which is the whiter one). <br />
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As you can see, it's not jarring, and it looks really natural. In the end, our tile is actually pretty white, and it was just the yellowing walls and disgusting brown grout that made them look so beige. Who knew?!<br />
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Anyway, do you want to see a series of before and afters side by side to compare??<br />
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That's the best part of these posts...<br />
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Here we go!<br />
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And just becuase I knew you wouldn't be able to get enough of how fresh and lovely our kitchen is looking, I snapped a few more pics "just because"...<br />
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Here's how clean and pretty our sink is looking now...<br />
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Like a breath of fresh air I tell you!! I actually enjoy cooking in here now!!<br />
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And here we are looking back the other direction from the sink... nothing but clean countertops, all the way down!!<br />
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These next two photographs were taken standing behind the stove (in my little desk / office area that I'd posted about here) looking back towards the dishwasher...<br />
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And, that's the update! What do you think? <br />
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It's unfortunately not quite as dramatic in pictures as it is in person, but trust me when I say that a coat of paint on the walls, and grout paint on the counters have transformed this room from a gloomy, dated, grease-fest, to a bright, airy, food sanctuary. <br />
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It's night and day my friends.Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-36794302393246188572014-07-15T09:00:00.000-07:002014-07-15T09:00:02.121-07:00Dining Room UpdatesHola friends!! More updates on the apartment!<br />
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Things are getting done around here - art hung, walls painted, and now we're slowing down because it feels like we live here for real, instead of that "just-moved-in can't-find-the-cheese-grater" temporary feeling. Do you know what I'm talking about? To put it simply, we're feeling completely settled now, so I thought I'd share a few pictures of the dining room.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uMIOMt1kWZyET7mdVEu-6St8gZDMs9Kqfv4H-oZclXAJ8g9k3u7A0EdI_iLSCQWesBqbMMGMKOeZwrLQ-93pL7sR_EUYnULMlGEDRlX4oSviRWFbowtGFiFeH4xaJA-NXFA1Bj6_JLKD/s1600/IMG_6034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uMIOMt1kWZyET7mdVEu-6St8gZDMs9Kqfv4H-oZclXAJ8g9k3u7A0EdI_iLSCQWesBqbMMGMKOeZwrLQ-93pL7sR_EUYnULMlGEDRlX4oSviRWFbowtGFiFeH4xaJA-NXFA1Bj6_JLKD/s1600/IMG_6034.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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You've already seen a few snapshots from this post when I hung the shelves up, and this post where I put up pictures of the linen curtains in here, but here's the room in it's fairly "finished" state.<br />
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The rug in here is new for this apartment - I'd blogged about it here - and when it first came, I was not 100% sure about how I felt. Looking at these pictures, I'm still not fully sure it's love, but I like it. I like the colors, and how it feels really tied in with the rest of the house, and it's got a nubby, earthy texture that is cool. <br />
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It's not plush and soft under foot, but I don't think it's supposed to be. It looks cool with the weathered stain on the shelves and the tripod lamp, so for now, it stays.<br />
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With the shelves on that wall, I had a hard time deciding what should go next to it. For now, we're sticking with the large abstract canvas that was hanging in the living room of our last apartment. I like them together, and feel like the large scale art balances the "heavy" feeling shelves out.<br />
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I have yet to really photograph the other wall in here (you can kind of see in the first picture), but there is a smallish gallery wall happening, and I'm really happy with how it turned out.<br />
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Other plans for this space...<br />
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<b>A NEW TABLE:</b><br />
This table, as much as I love the pedestal is very rickity, and smallish. Not that we need a huge table, but something that doesn't creak when you set your elbows on it would be nice. In the interim, it needs a good coat of paint - you can really tell from the above photo that it's looking shabby, and when we sell it, it can't be looking like this. For now, this table is fine, but a new one is on the wish list.<br />
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Kris really liked <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/carrol-farm-dining-table-g183/?pkey=cdining-tables&cm_src=dining-tables||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_--_-" target="_blank">this one from West Elm</a>:<br />
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I was thinking of something a bit more like this:</div>
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<b>A FRESH COAT OF PAINT</b><br />
I was feeling a bit "painted out" after repainting both the living room, and most recently, the kitchen, but this room is in serious need of freshening. There are scuffs and holes galore, and the scuffs are permanent. I went through two Mr. Clean Magic Erasers, and they didn't even make a dent. You know how powerful those things are too! <br />
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Also the heater vent... Ugh, the peeling paint just kills me, but before that gets painted, it needs to be sanded. Not a project I'm looking forward to, but an update which will eventually make a really HUGE difference.<br />
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The vent will be white, but I'm not 100% sure on the walls - perhaps my go-to favorite, Intense White by Benjamin Moore (which is really a light grey)- but maybe a stark white (like Decorator's White - Benjamin Moore) would be nice...<br />
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<b>A NEW OVERHEAD LIGHT</b><br />
A pretty chandelier or pendant would look awesome in here - especially since we decided to keep this as a dining room with a table in the center. I conveniently left the current light out of the pictures, but it's one of those flush mount boob lights that is just so ugly. The great thing about lighting is that we can re-install the boob lights when we leave, and bring our chandelier / pendant with us into our next space.<br />
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We have a chandelier that I bought last year and never installed, but I think it might be better in our bedroom... or the entry. I've always admired the <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/8159311/?catalogId=84&sku=8159311&bnrid=3318529&cm_ven=Google_PLA&cm_cat=Lighting&cm_pla=Chandeliers&cm_ite=Clarissa_Glass_Drop_Rectangular_Chandelier%2C_30_x_9%22%2C_Antique_Silver_finish&srccode=cii_17588969&cpncode=34-210746121-2" target="_blank">Clarissa series of chandeliers from Pottery Barn</a>... the long one is really lovely over a dining room table:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyx8LHIajgJktyUOTzaX8G_wjCL_esUxKfp7QbiOkhaGpdJeRxRYaFGcVIcd6boD2V5ozNGm-2myYIjOPPzpIXBrUR7ujaIxfyKp8TZ3dziqVoBetahwn2SAsIiCp89bQybhyphenhyphen-EOJaxNlu/s1600/img62o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyx8LHIajgJktyUOTzaX8G_wjCL_esUxKfp7QbiOkhaGpdJeRxRYaFGcVIcd6boD2V5ozNGm-2myYIjOPPzpIXBrUR7ujaIxfyKp8TZ3dziqVoBetahwn2SAsIiCp89bQybhyphenhyphen-EOJaxNlu/s1600/img62o.jpg" height="576" width="640" /></a></div>
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But the <a href="http://www.ballarddesigns.com/orb-chandelier/lighting/category/chandeliers-pendants/292465" target="_blank">Orb Chandlier from Ballard</a> is also really cool, and I think a bit more to Kris' tastes...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp9vpzHBNeCu0WGJ2C0guSHWYnEgDCDI6FIIij79YqAlck2sPd47gU3fztWCx5TmTzFkYkEWfh8kxrG21SRAEPfRjUIZTl9CCTYDe46CWzse6rwGH_gzCWSETH7pJEiUJbL6yvjr2nXxEc/s1600/T_WithoutZoom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp9vpzHBNeCu0WGJ2C0guSHWYnEgDCDI6FIIij79YqAlck2sPd47gU3fztWCx5TmTzFkYkEWfh8kxrG21SRAEPfRjUIZTl9CCTYDe46CWzse6rwGH_gzCWSETH7pJEiUJbL6yvjr2nXxEc/s1600/T_WithoutZoom.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Thoughts? <br />
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Does anyone have any recommendations on (not super expensive) pendants or chandeliers you've seen recently?Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937817234231023429.post-48042325520860040062014-07-11T09:00:00.000-07:002014-07-11T09:00:05.866-07:00The Magic of Paint<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy Friday Friends!! The deck hasn't made any major changes since my last post, but I wanted to share the small progress I've made so far...</div>
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Do you remember how shabby the chairs were looking out there??</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjA4OK5Flsk7l8jDv-lXOerJDU7Nv9vlRAGFJxb3Zr4pH62U0WH6Qeatt-Q9uKsA2mX7Um1iX2SX1Di9ELLeLllcrCK-5jBVS5FBe3ewG-CYME-YeG8CP28VFp-zqoqbziZRtQvFvE4Ws/s1600/IMG_6075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjA4OK5Flsk7l8jDv-lXOerJDU7Nv9vlRAGFJxb3Zr4pH62U0WH6Qeatt-Q9uKsA2mX7Um1iX2SX1Di9ELLeLllcrCK-5jBVS5FBe3ewG-CYME-YeG8CP28VFp-zqoqbziZRtQvFvE4Ws/s1600/IMG_6075.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Well, Kris came home a while back to find me sanding as much of that old chippy paint off as possible. <br />
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Despite the fact that the deck is still in shambles, the chairs are now looking like this...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlOkhdwBkmlq755pHM-BPDM9DS9ifNqJmdyc4FjVnZ3VBjp_yPlJou8FJ2lNbA6O4D6mJQnp5DS7D28WpSLhg24IzrpmUdfft1ti7M807KKRapSvjNlpD3X02RQ6mvHFpkg7hVHjx5fLbf/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlOkhdwBkmlq755pHM-BPDM9DS9ifNqJmdyc4FjVnZ3VBjp_yPlJou8FJ2lNbA6O4D6mJQnp5DS7D28WpSLhg24IzrpmUdfft1ti7M807KKRapSvjNlpD3X02RQ6mvHFpkg7hVHjx5fLbf/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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Boom. Amazing, right??</div>
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I used outdoor paint on these bad boys, so there was no need to prime them - thank god for that, because getting between the little slats turned out to be much more time consuming than I'd bargained for. There will be more pictures of these lovely chairs once the deck fully comes together, but I couldn't resist a small update here.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq2QkAQYHIrCmDZvgR_BHOHL7oUf1Xr07LLchQHCR28I0El9fWBJCw5_mOQVYI4lDyrewHF4BHY7-ODqDS15dlKH_fhf7VWxGFAn4SQQ-QHO8xs_SFyHQJM5idCd0MIK_Soy4wELub5Okj/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq2QkAQYHIrCmDZvgR_BHOHL7oUf1Xr07LLchQHCR28I0El9fWBJCw5_mOQVYI4lDyrewHF4BHY7-ODqDS15dlKH_fhf7VWxGFAn4SQQ-QHO8xs_SFyHQJM5idCd0MIK_Soy4wELub5Okj/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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These photos were snapped after two coats - both chairs and the small table are needing a third and final coat for sure, but the blue is such a nice change from the blah color it had beforehand. You can really see in these two pictures where the extra paint is needed - between the slats, and on the legs. It just looks a bit spotty still, but regardless, a HUGE improvement.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcr_sx8CaycEYaBnaqcusS20kQuOAK8EsephYiCS8l4JGLFfextDvrQrMZlZ2B33XSLIlIa1XaXx_A_aADn7-fPQ5_QogxqOj9hG8_71_KCOnJK0OrFwe8REUowGuKU08NPQ4eARxdRsy/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIcr_sx8CaycEYaBnaqcusS20kQuOAK8EsephYiCS8l4JGLFfextDvrQrMZlZ2B33XSLIlIa1XaXx_A_aADn7-fPQ5_QogxqOj9hG8_71_KCOnJK0OrFwe8REUowGuKU08NPQ4eARxdRsy/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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I wish our property managers were moving at my speed - luckily I don't have to wait too much longer... Painters are going to start getting the scaffold up next week, which means that in a few short weeks, we will be able to pull our amazing outdoor space together.!<br />
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I'm ready to get this deck whipped into shape! Other updates on the deck... I just ordered navy and off-white striped cushions from Ballard that are on their way, along with a cedar planter for the boxwoods. Also on my wishlist is a pretty ceramic garden stool - I'm looking for something blue and white, but don't want to break the bank.<br />
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Keep your eyes peeled for me!!Beckyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04872748075098598274noreply@blogger.com2