New House Diary: Master Bedroom Design Plan

October 20, 2017

Hi friends. I’ve decided to start a new series here on the blog called New House Diary. The new series document the decorating journey of our new home. I’ll be sharing the design plans as well as before and after photos so you can see the spaces come to life. I’ve already shared the design plans for the office and the living room and today I’m sharing the plans for our master bedroom.

We’ve been in the house for two months and are moving at a snail’s pace when it comes to decorating. We have yet to hang artwork or curtains and we’re still waiting for our new sofa to arrive. Fingers crossed it will be here next week!

When we moved, I made the decision to take my time decorating. That decision has been both good and bad. The downside is that we’re still unloading boxes and trying to get closets, cabinets and drawers organized. The positive thing is that taking my time is helping me make the right design decisions.

Here’s a look at our master bedroom the day we closed on the house. The carpet was in desperate need of replacing and the paint colors were not at all appealing to me.

The bedroom is a good size but there aren’t many options when it comes to arranging the furniture.

Here’s the space plan for the room…

I want for the room to have a calm, sophisticated and warm look and feel so that’s what inspired the colors and design plan.

The walls are painted a soft grey, Whisper by Benjamin Moore and I absolutely love the color. All of the trim is BM Simply White (semi-gloss) and the doors are BM Black Satin also in semi-gloss. I’ll be introducing darker grey through some of the accent fabrics the fabrics which will give the space more depth.

We already own most of the furniture for the room but are purchasing a couple of new pieces to complete the space. And I’ve got new linens and decor on my shopping list too.

Master Bedroom Design Plan…

To add dimension and visual interest to the neutral color palette, I’ll use patterned pillows and textured linens. The neutral foundation will also make it easy to change the look seasonally, adding more color during the warmer months.

The plan is for velvet curtains and to use velvet on a bench that I’m having recovered. Brass lighting will add a touch of shine and glam within the room. I have one vintage brass lamp that I want to use on the nightstand and I’m hoping to luck upon a matching one at an antique or thrift store.

The pillows patterns I’m showing are the general direction that I want to go, using a plaid, floral and animal print together.

I’m planning to have our bedroom complete before Thanksgiving so stay tuned for the reveal.

Black Nightstand

Black Undredal Dresser (I’m planning to change our the drawer hardware)

Washed Percale Waffle Duvet Cover (also available in grey)

Charcoal Grey Plaid Pillow

Schumacher Linen Leopard Animal Print Pillow

Schumacher Pyne Hollyhock Pillow

Brass Chandelier

Charcoal Curtain Panels

Decorative Trim (similar here)

Upholstered Bench (I’ll be recovering one I already own)

Vintage Brass Lamp (similar here)

Medallion Rug

Favorites Of The Week {a random mix of great stuff}

February 25, 2017

Whew! What a week it has been. I’ve been running in 50 different directions sourcing products, working on projects and trying to wrangle the paperwork on my desk.

I wish I could say this was going to be a low-key weekend but it’s not. I’m spending all day tomorrow in meeting with the non-profit agency I work with then I’m doing some major house cleaning. We do have a fun outing planned for Sunday morning but the rest of the day will be spent working and preparing for the busy week ahead. Oh, I am planning to shut things down so I can watch the Oscars!

I hope you can find some downtime to enjoy a few of my favorites from the week.

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FAVORITE POSTS:

This interior designers home is beautiful and the property is breathtaking.

I loved this interview with interior designer Danielle Colding and her answer to the question ‘what does success mean?’.

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FAVORITE PINS:

The image below is from one of my new, favorite Instagram feeds–@erinkestenbaum.

This is a gorgeous living room designed by one of my favorite designers.

I can tell this bedroom is really beautiful just from this photo.

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FAVORITE PRODUCTS:

These pastel teaspoons are perfect for spring.

Loving this market tote! It’s on sale and I also spotted a similar design in stores on clearance for $17.99.

If you’re looking for a stylish rug in a neutral color, check out the Farrah rug.

Loving this emerald green soap dispenser from H and M Home. This glass cup and this glass jar are also part of the collection.

For all you fashionistas out there, there’s a postage stamp made just for you!

Speaking of fashion, I’m totally in smitten with the pom pom sneaker trim. These are the cheapest I’ve seen so far but this brand does not fit my foot. I’m thinking a DIY might be in order. You can buy shoe clips here and a pom pom making tool here. {affiliate links}

Enjoy your weekend!

The Junk Gypsy Collection for Pottery Barn Teen

December 1, 2016

Thanks to the kind folks at Pottery Barn Teen, I now have a new set of beautiful sheets for our guest bedroom.

The Bohemian Geo Cuff Sheet Set is part of their new Junk Gypsy collection and is made of 100% percale which is so soft and cozy. And the embroidered diamond pattern that accents the flat sheet and pillowcases has a classic yet bohemian vibe.

The sheets are a soft off-white color that will mix easily with other bedding, adding to their versatility.

Upon opening the package I recognized how well made the sheet set was and it fit our queen bed like a glove.

I’ve stared to add holiday touches to the guest room and the new sheet set works great with the classic holiday decor I’m adding.

The Junk Gypsy collection for has lots of items that will work for adult spaces as easily as they do for a teens room. I love the Wanderer Fur Throw and the Tufted Lounge Rug . And the Country Blooms Duvet Cover + Sham are perfect for a soothing bedroom design.

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To check out the full Junk Gypsy collection head here. And pick up a copy of Amie and Jolie Sikes new book, Designing A Life at the Crossroads of Wonder & Wander. The book will make a great holiday gift for anyone that loves design and diy transformations.

I’ll be sharing another great piece form the Junk Gypsy collection next week so stay tuned.

This is a sponsored post with Pottery Barn Teen. Pottery Barn & Pottery Barn Teen are one of my go-t sources for stylish and affordable decor and gift items. I am happy to partner with them in sharing some of the products I love. All text and opinions are my own.

* this post contains affiliate links

Favorites Of The Week (things I’m loving, reading and shopping for)!

November 5, 2016

Happy Saturday friends. I’ve got a great round-up of my weekly favorites for you to today. I think you’re going to really love the products I’m highlighting–just in time to get your holiday shopping started. Enjoy and I’ll see you back her on Monday.

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FAVORITE POSTS

Why we go all in at the holidays!

via At Home

Choosing Creativity over Criticism

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FAVORITE PINS

I love this design space and everything in this design duo’s portfolio.

This pantry will put a smile on your face and make you want to bake something. You can see the full kitchen tour here.

This grey and white bedroom set-up I spotted from Pottery Barn is just stunning.

via

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FAVORITE PRODUCTS

It’s becoming harder and harder to find unique gifts for family and friends but with the help of Oprah and a few of my favorite stores, holiday shopping is going to be easy.

Oprah’s Favorite Things list is out and I’m loving this, this and this to name a few!

I think I need this candle just because of the gold jar.

These cute hobnail cocktail shakers are the perfect bar cart accessory for the holidays.

I’m loving Anthropologie’s new monogram mug. What at great holiday gift!

This little red bucket from Ikea is inspiring all kinds of holiday decorating ideas. It’s also available in black and its only $7.99.

Style Your Nightstand–Tips & Inspiration

June 15, 2016

One of the things I am always look for on Pinterest are beautiful nightstand images. I love getting a glimpse at a person’s lifestyle and seeing how they style and decorate different areas of their home.

As a designer, I recognize that accessorizing a small, compact area like a nightstand can be more challenging than a larger living area for some people. So today I’m sharing the ingredients for styling your bedside table like pro.

Your bedroom is the most private space in your home and the items you put on your nightstand should be a mix of personal and decorative decor.

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When it comes to pulling your items together, keep these style tips in mind:

♦ Layers! Unless you take a minimalist approach to decorating, you want to position items to create a layered look. Layers will add the visual interest and help create a dynamic statement with you collection of items. Vary the placement of items on the table surface, front to back and side to side and keep the scale of your lamp in mind when positioning items.

♦ The Mix! This is where style and function meet. Accessorize with items you use on a daily basis (alarm clock, journal/book) along with items that are decorative. Decorative items like small trinket trays, lidded boxes and containers can work as storage AND as a design statement. And personal items like books and picture frames will add a personal feel to the decor on your nightstand.

♦ The Background! Even if you have a wall decor piece hanging over your bed, don’t forget about the wall space directly behind the nightstand. Hanging a mirror or piece of artwork over your bedside table is a great to build up the impact for the overall vignette. You can even lean pieces of art or other flat decor against the wall like I did at Christmas one year to enhance the layered look of your decor.

♦ Softness! A soft element like flowers or greenery can add an air of energy and life to the vignette.

♦ Keep it Fun! And finally, as you go about decorating your nightstand, throw in an unexpected object to add personality and flair.

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Nightstand Styling Inspiration

In addition to the tips above, I also wanted to serve up some visual inspiration for you. I went virtual shopping at Z Gallerie and put together two inspiration boards that pull all the elements together.

It’s no secret that I one of my favorite color combinations is black, white and gold and Z Gallerie as some beautiful decorative pieces that will work great in a bedroom. This look is bold, dramatic and super chic!

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Shop the Black & Gold Nightstand Vignette:

Devon Table Lamp // Rey Mirror // Allium Sphere

Camille Tray // Acropolis Frame // Sawyer Nightstand // Emila Canisters // Chanel Book

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My current bedroom decor is a black and white theme and I’m working on a summer refresh to incorporate more blue and white. This look is classic, elegant and has a calming feel.

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Shop the Blue & White Nightstand Vignette:

Let Me Go Artwork // Addison Table Lamp // York 3-Drawer Nightstand //Acropolis Bookends // Charles Table Clock

Gold Elephant Jewelry Dish //Glow Candle // Potted Phalaenopsis

Surround yourself with things you love!

Inspiration {plus links you’ll love}

June 6, 2015

Hello!

My typical weekend inspiration and links you’ll love post is a smorgasbord of stuff including design ideas, business tips, fashion inspiration and anything else that I think you’ll find interesting. This week’s post is no different so sit back, enjoy and be inspired!

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Have you ever spent time looking through all the amazing recipes on Pinterest. It’s kinda like walking through Costco on food sample Saturday–it can be dangerous. I recently came across this recipe and will definitely be making it in the coming days. It looks so yummy!

Miss Mustard Seed gives you all the ins and outs of decorating with bread boards.

This is one beautiful kitchen renovation!

I’m always interested in learning different ways to build my creative business and I found this article on Debi’s Design Diary funny and informative.

Can you tell which is the high-priced pillow and which is the diy? Jen at the Chronicles of Home knocked this pillow diy out of the park. It is beyond amazing and one of my all-time favorites!

If you want an easy way to personalize your business or social correspondence, you need to take advantage of this sale. I love my stamps and use them all the time.

In case you missed my spring bedroom refresh, you can read all about it here and learn how I created that gold stool in the top photo.

Painted Nightstands

April 2, 2015

As part of my master bedroom refresh I’m working on, I’m considering painting the nightstand. The wood and details on the nightstand are really nice so I’m struggling with giving it a new look or keeping it as is.

I don’t have a photo where you can see the full piece but you can get a feel for it here.

Naturally as part of my decision-making process I went looking for some inspiration.

Here’s what inspired me…

I love the look of this piece with the gold accent but don’t know if my piece is large enough to pull off this look.

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Crystal knobs and gold trim similar to the details on this piece might work but then again it might be too contemporary for our space.

via

I love the look of these oval brass handles and think that kind of detail would work great on our piece.

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Or maybe some decorative drawer pulls?? This piece has similar lines and details to our so this might be the winner.

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So many ideas to consider and one big question to get answered…will the hubs let me paint a perfectly good wood piece?

Stay tuned.

Demilune Tables: A Unique Furniture Piece

July 1, 2014

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Are you familiar with DemiLune tables? The characteristic of this table style is its semi-circular shape which is designed so that the table can be pushed up against a wall.

As a member of the console table family, demilune tables feature three legs but are often overlooked as a design option in favor of their traditional four-legged console table companion. I however love demilune tables and think they are the perfect solution for many space challenged rooms.

Demilune tables are ideal for small wall spaces where a chair or larger piece of furniture would feel over-powering. Using a table with a shaped design detail will help to create visual interest and give that small space a focal point.

Traditional Home

When an impromptu cocktail table is needed, a demilune works great with just enough space to hold a few key party essentials. Demilune tables are also great to position in front of floor mirrors, creating lots of visual impact.

source unknown

One of my favorite places to use a demilune table is in a bedroom. The shape of the table works in a narrow space next to the bed and functions as a nightstand as well as a intimate writing desk.

BHG

Amy Meier Design

Both as a cost saving option and as a style solution in a foyer, two demilune tables facing each other is one of my favorite looks.

BelClaire House

Demilune tables can also be retro-fit to work as a bathroom vanity. The curves of the table add softness to what is often a space of hard lines and square shapes.

Architectural Digest

What to put in that space between the windows? A small scale demilune table works great to fill that space and serve as the backdrop to a beautiful wall piece and tabletop accessories.

Cote De Texas

Wall mounted demilune tables can be used like a display shelf in a foyer or hall and again is ideal when wall space is limited.

Designer SueEllen Gregory via Mix and Chic

When shopping for demilune tables, look for styles that feature scalloped or shaped details for added style.

SuCasa Designs

In a small kitchen eating area, demilune tables provide just enough room for two people to sit and eat comfortably. Hanging a large grouping of artwork over the table as shown in this photos is also a great way to give the table and surrounding area more visual impact.

Ladies Home Journal

Demilune tables are most often used in a foyer, next to the front door. The table scale keeps the foyer open while providing the perfect perch for keys and mail.

BHG

Other places to use demilune tables:

In smaller rooms, demilune tables can be placed under a wall-mounted TV but close attention needs to be given to ensure the table scales balances the TV.

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In bedrooms where twin beds are used, a demilune table is often a better design solution than individual night stands. When placed between the bed, the table works as a nightstand for both and is a great use of space.

A demilune placed at the end of hallway or at the top of stair landing fills the space without it becoming over-crowded.

I also like to use demilune tables in the nooks next to a fireplace. This is another spot where the curve of the table will add softness to the room.

And because many demilune tables are shorter and smaller in scale than a traditional console table, they work great positioned under a window.

The next time you’re on the hunt for a new table, consider a Demilune Table. Not only are they an unexpected option but a demilune table can work just about anywhere you’d put a traditional console table.

Happy Decorating!