Beyond

DESIGN PLAN: Tuscan Dining Room

June 29, 2017

I had the pleasure of creating a design plan for a young couple who have just purchased their first home. The goal for the dining space was to merge his traditional style with her love for rustic yet refined decor. They both love natural rooms with pops of color and wanted the overall feel of the dining room to be warm and inviting.

After dissecting their design styles, I came up with the theme, Tuscan Dining. My vision was rich, warm colors with a mix of dark and light wood tones. I also envisioned a mix of classic and transitional furniture, colorful textiles and lots of texture.

TUSCAN DINING ROOM: Design Details

No.1 & No. 5–A traditional dining room set will work best for this couple who loves to entertain. The oval table maximizing seating and helps with the traffic flow in and out of the room. The dark wood stain on the table adds depth and contrast against the lighter tones in the room.

No.2–To bring in a more modern touch, I suggested an upholstered settee for one side of the dining table. This larger piece of furniture will add softness to the room and can easily be moved to other areas of the home when needed.

No. 3–All of the lighting for this dining room is in a bronze finish which adds even more warmth to the space. The chandelier has lots of curves to it which create visual movement for the eye. And if the couple wants an even more traditional feel they could add shades to each arm.

No. 4–These patterned drapes are the wow factor in the room. The all-over damask pattern have a traditional vibe but the bold colors will help the room maintain a sense of playfulness. I also like that the drapery pattern/colors will give the couple lots of options when it comes to accessorizing.

No.6–A sleek round mirror over the rustic sideboard keeps the wall decor statement simple. Plus a round mirror has a more modern feel than a rectangular design.

No.7–Instead of lamps, wall sconces are another way to add lighting to a dining room and expand the wall decor statement above a buffet. These double arm sconces will provide ample lighting and visually draw the eye up.

No.8–I love a neutral colored rug with lots of texture. The subtle diamond pattern of this sisal rug adds a cozy and relaxed feel plus lots of visual interest.

No.9–A good way to create dimension and depth within a room is by mixing furniture with different finishes. The blonde wood finish on this sideboard ties into the lighter tones in the drapes and the rustic finish adds the dimension.

No.10–I wanted to pull in some navy to coordinate with the drapes and a pair of ceramic garden stools flanking the sideboard will do the trick. Plus I love the raised vine design which adds more visual interest.

Fab Finds at HomeGoods (Budget Friendly Decor)

June 28, 2017

I’ve spent a lot of time in my local HomeGoods stores lately looking for accessories for several clients. HomeGoods is such a great source for shelf fillers, tabletop decor and general accent decor. HomeGoods is usually picked over when I go shopping but on a my most recent trip I hit the timing just right. The shelves and aisles were over-flowing and I spotted so many great items.

HomeGoods Happy Finds

Let’s start with the furniture….

I loved this garden stool/side table. At first glance it looks like its made of concrete but it’s actually a resin materials so it’s not too heavy. If you’re into neutral decor, this would look great between a pair or chairs or next to a sofa.

I’ve seen the cube ottomans at several stores and thought they would look cute in a play room or nursery.

HomeGoods has some super cute chairs but they aren’t always comfortable. This animal print chair would be a great accent chair in a bedroom or kitchen desk.

The acrylic trend is alive a well at HomeGoods and this tiered side table was fun. The only down side about buying acrylic from HomeGoods is finding a piece that isn’t all scratched up.

I really liked this tufted bench. It was actually really comfortable and would be perfect at the foot of a bed.

tip: don’t overlook upholstered furniture pieces at HomeGoods. Their prices are so go you could have a piece re-upholstered and still spend less than buy a higher end piece.

This brass and marble-look side table was really cute. The top is made of a composite material that looks like a piece of marble. This table would be perfect between two club chairs.

This dining table caught my eye mostly because of the legs. This mid-century style would look great in a loft and because it’s so big, it could even be used as conference table in an office.

tip: if you see surface scratches or dings in a piece you like, ask for a discount.

This chest of drawers had a really great texture to it and I loved the clean lines of the design.

tip: if you’re considering a large furniture piece from HomeGoods, make sure to look it over. I often see scratches and missing pieces (note the missing drawer pull below).

Now let’s check out the accessories and other decor I spotted…

You can find spheres like these at several big box stores but they are usually in a gold finish. I love these in black with a touch of gold on the end of each prong. You can use these a tabletop decor or hang them on the wall.

The faux boxwood topiary at HomeGoods look pretty realistic and the ceramic containers make them look more expensive than they are.

This acrylic and gold-rimmed tray almost came home with me (tray hoarder)! If I remember correctly, it was less than $20 and it came in several colors including the champagne below.

This copper mailbox was really chic and a great size.

This metal stool is perfect to tuck away in a closet or kitchen to reach those high shelves.

These glass lanterns were really pretty and would look great on a covered porch, sunroom or indoors.

tip: unless glass is tempered, you don’t want to expose it to prolonged periods of hot sun or changing temperatures.

This artwork would have been perfect for a clients powder room but the frame was busted up. Hopefully I’ll run across it at another store.

HomeGoods has started to sell more abstract art. This piece had lots of texture and looked more expensive than it was.

Decorative and patterned lampshades seem to be a trend and there were plenty the day I was shopping.

It’s always challenging to find small lamps that can work on a bathroom vanity or on the kitchen counter. HomeGoods has lots including this pierced ceramic lamp.

tip: don’t pass up a lamp you like because of the lampshade. Changing the shade is an easy and inexpensive fix.

My collection of teacups from Anthropologie is growing. But now I have a new source because I saw several Anthropologie inspired styles at HomeGoods for a lot less.

The pillow section looked like a tornado had gone through it so I didn’t spend much time looking . I did see this beautiful needlework lumbar pillow which would look great on a bed or sofa.

One other thing you should keep your eye out for at HomeGoods–design books. I needed 9 coffee table books for a client and found some great titles for less than $20 each.

I follow lots of folks on Instagram so I know I’m not the only one spending time at HomeGoods.

Have you found any great items there lately?

Stylish Summer Bags For Every Budget

June 26, 2017

Hi friends. I skipped out on you last week because I needed to devote every waking minute to design work. I’ve gotten over the hump and I back today with a post to usher in summer.

Now that summer is here I’m looking forward to wearing summer dresses and switching my leather handbag for a more casual style. My collection of straw bags includes everything from a classic tote and oversized shopper to a simple woven clutch. My newest bag is this black and tan shopper that my brother gave me for my birthday. It’s the perfect size to accommodate all my stuff and I love the drawstring liner that keeps my contents secure.

When it comes to summer fashions, a straw bag (or two) is one wardrobe essential I think every woman needs to own. Whether you’re carrying it to the beach or out to dinner, a straw bag is perfect for any summer outfit. Here’s a round-up of my favorite straw bags to fit every budget and every style need.

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SUMMER BAGS FOR EVERY BUDGET

1 // 2 // 3 //4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10 // 11 // 12

Under $25: All three of these bags are great options for everyday use but I especially love the round tote. The only thing missing is a cute bag charm but you can add this tassel charm and still be under $ 40.

Under $50: The floral clutch is perfect to add a pop of color to a little black dress. And I love the size and shape of the black and tan tote.

Under $100: Isn’t that pom pom trimmed bag the cutest thing ever? I love the size and how colorful it is. And it has a drawstring liner to keep your contents under wrap. p.s. it’s should actually be in the under $50 group because this cutie is only $32.

Splurge: I’ve been known to splurge on a handbag every now and then and I’m tempted to pull the trigger on #11. I love the slim shape and leather handles and the tassels are pretty cute too.

So if you had to pick a favorite, which bag would it be?

Design Chat: Sectional Styling & A Family Room Refresh

June 16, 2017

I continue to get emails from people who have read my blog post or found my pin How To Style A Sectional Sofa. I wrote the original blog in 2014 and there are over 25,000 re-pins on Pinterest. And when I wrote the post, I didn’t realize so many people are challenged with decorating around a sectional sofa.

My most recent email was from MJ who is looking to update her family room. She wants to trade in her current sofa and loveseat for a new sectional with chaise. And she wants to replace the recliner with two accent chairs. Here’s how MJ posed her design challenge to me…

“Hello, I came across your article on Pinterest and was hoping to get your advice. I have attached two pics of my great room as I want to purchase a new sectional (would love a chaise), but with a corner fireplace, I am not sure how or if that would even work. Also get confused on how to determine if I need a right arm facing or left arm facing chaise. One picture shows the wall across from the stairs where the chaise portion of a sectional would be placed with the longer sofa portion obviously along the area across from stairway. My plan is to purchase two complementary accent chairs to be placed in front of window wall. Any suggestions would be appreciated!!

Here are the photos of MJ’s family room now. As you can see, MJ’s family room is not large and the brown/beige color palette that takes it cues from the carpet and wall color.

After studying the room layout, I created an inspiration board and outlined a few suggestions that will help MJ execute a new look for her home.

The Inspiration

Family Room Refresh: Design Suggestions

FIND FURNITURE THAT FITS: With the size of MJ’s family room, a large sectional will fit with ease. I recommend a left arm sectional which will position the sectional on the long wall opposite the TV. Selecting the right size sectional will allow for side tables and lamps on each end creating a cozy sitting arrangement.

tip: When looking at sectionals, left facing and right facing refers to the arm placement when looking at the sectional sofa head on (not when sitting on it).

CREATE A COLOR STORY: The foundation of every room is its color palette. The current color scheme in MJ’s family room is somewhat flat. The main color in the room is brown with a little deviation in tones form one brown to another. What I recommend is combining more shades and variation of tan and brown which will give the room depth, dimension and visual interest. Since the sectional will be the largest piece in the room, a lighter color fabric will provide a contrast against the walls and carpet.

PUMP UP THE COLOR: I also recommend pumping up the use of accent colors in the room. Right now the only significant accent color is the teal lamp shades o n the table lamps. Using the teal as the accent color I would bring in more of this color with patterned pillows and drapes. Curtains will add softness to the room and define and create a focal point around the windows.

tip: when adding patternwork to a room, combine patterns in different in scale so they don’t fight with each other and each individual design stands out.

tip: hang your drapery rod as high as possible to maximize the visual effect of taller ceilings and a more open space.

MIX UP THE MATERIALS AND FINISHES: Another way to add depth and dimension to a room is by using pieces that are made of different materials and/or finishes. My suggestion is to replace with wood side tables with tables made of iron and glass. The glass will not take up any visual space and the iron will keep the tables from looking whimsy. For additional contrast, I’d place a painted wood accent table between the chairs in front of the window. Painted furniture will introduce even more color and another finish in the room.

ADD STYLE WITH SHAPE: Having little to no variation in the shape of furniture within a room is a common decorating mistake. Having too many elements in one shape (i.e. square or rectangular) can result in a room that feels heavy and overloaded. A combination of square, round and other shapes creates visual interest and movement for the eye. In MJ’s room I’ve suggested round side tables to add that needed contrast.

PERSONALIZE YOUR STYLE: In addition to new furniture and a pumped up color palette, here are the other suggestions I had for MJ…

Hang the mirror over the mantel versus leaning it. Hanging the mirror will balance the fireplace and create separation between the mantel and the mirror.
Hang a larger piece of artwork on the long wall facing the TV. A larger piece of art will add color, visual interest and create a secondary focal point within the room.
Replace the lamps with a style that has more substance and shape. Your lamp base and shade should feel proportion to the scale of the furniture in the room Lamps are also an easy way to introduce more color into a room. Note how the lamp shade color in my recommended style picks up the lighter neutral in the pillows and curtains.
Upsize the TV cabinet with a larger piece. The current TV console is a bit small and makes the entire TV arrangement feel diminutive. A larger tv cabinet will work better with the scale of the fireplace and furniture within the room.
Paint the inside of the front door an accent color. Painting MJ’s door will add so much visual interest within the entire entrance/family room space. And the color will visually link the two areas together. The inspiration photo for the door is below.

One other thing I wanted to point out is that while MJ’s room could benefit from a patterned area rug, I wouldn’t recommend it because of the plush wall to wall carpeting. It’s fine to layer a rug over a low pile carpet with plush carpeting an area rug tends to crawl.

Do you have a design challenge? Leave me a comment and your space just might be featured here on ConfettiStyle.

SHOP THE INSPIRATION BOARD:

Sectional Sofa // Round Pedestal Table // Floral Pillow // Teal Velvet Pillow // Plaid Tattersall Pillow

Abstract Art // Brown Accent Chair // Glass Table Lamps

Geometric Blackout Curtains // Round Glass and Iron Side Table // Black TV Cabinet

Fabulous Summer Fashion Finds { all under $50}

June 13, 2017

I have a couple of trips planned in the coming months and needed a few new pieces of summer clothing. I don’t like to spend a lot of money on summer clothing and try to get the most bang for my buck. Good thing there are lots of great shopping options both in-store and online. Rather than hit the stores, I decided to dome shopping online and came across some fabulous finds, all under $50. From jewelry and dresses to tops and handbags, these pieces are ones you’ll want to check out.

Happy shopping!

SUMMER FASHION FINDS UNDER $50

One // Straw bags are a summer staples and this Braided Tote Bag from Zara is perfect because it mixes a casual vibe with a refined shape. And the pom poms just give it that special touch. $49.90 (fyi– this bag is generous it size so it’s perfect as an everyday handbag)

Two // Have you noticed that ruffled sleeves are the hottest fashion trend right now? You can hardly find a piece of clothing without them for summer. This Ruffled Sleeve Blouse with Lace is one of the cutest styles I’ve seen. $39.90

Three // Red and pink are my two favorite colors and when they are combined into something cute like this Striped Floppy Hat , I’m all in. $25.90 (I’m going to add a monogram to the brim like I did with this hat)

Four // I love these black and cream Lace Up Espadrilles. They are the perfect flat to wear with shorts or sundresses. $39.90

Five // Causal summer dresses are my thing during the dog days of summer. I’m loving this Embroidered Striped Dress because of its effortless style and boho vibe. $49.90

Six // This Animal Print Cross Strap Slide will be fun to wear with a sun dress, shorts or a romper. $35.00-$45.00

Seven // One of my favorite color combos for summer is red and turquoise. These Beaded Drop Earrings will add a pop of color to any summer outfit. $34.00

Eight // The gorgeous color and the sleeves on this Frilled Sleeve Dress just might make it the perfect dress for summer parties. $49.90

Nine // What’s not to love about this beautiful Coral Reef Necklace? Nothing! The style and color just scream summer. $48.00

Ten // I’m always looking for casual tops to wear with jeans and sneakers during the summer. The Marled V-Neck Hoodie is perfect for running errands or a walk in the park. $36.00

With so many great summer fashion finds under $50, you can get your shop on without breaking the bank.

Favorites Of The Week | Beautiful Things

June 3, 2017

There are questions in life that we may never has the answers to like “why does a four day work week always seem extra-long?” While you enjoy your weekend and ponder this question, also take some time to enjoy my Favorites Of The Week.

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FAVORITE POSTS

The summer home tours have started and I loved touring Kris’ beautiful home. Her family room is so bright and crisp and I love all the special details she’s styled the space with.

I’m at the stage in life where I’m wanting to purge and live with less. Apartment Therapy posted an article on minimalism recently and this quote by Joshua Becker, author and blogger at Becoming Minimalist grabbed my attention–“Desiring less is even more valuable than owning less.” It’s a great read if you’re feeling the urge to lighten your load too.

Framed textiles are such a unique way to create custom artwork for your home.

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FAVORITE PINS

This Dip Dyed Stationery is a project to add to your DYI to-do list. So cute!

This bathroom is just one of the amazing room designs in this designers portfolio.

Kitchen perfection…black + gold + white. And notice the wood apron and legs on the island extension.

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FAVORITE PRODUCTS

Floral patterns are always a big trend for spring and summer but I’m loving all the textured pillows I’m seeing on store shelves. If you’re not a pattern person, textured pillows are a great way to add visual interest to a chair or sofa. These Fringe Diendra Pillows are from Anthropologie and they are beyond beautiful.

If you’re planning on doing a lot of entertaining this summer, you might want to pick up this chic Leaf Print Tablecloth from H and M Home for only $24.99. And if you need some tablescape inspiration here’s a gorgeous party table styled using the tablecloth.

via

Anyone else out there have sunglasses scattered around your house? I just can’t seem to come up with a workable storage option to keep them all in one place. That is until now. The Emily & Meritt Sunglass Holder from Pottery Barn Teen is the solution to my problem. I love that it can also be used to hold jewelry.

Before I sign off, I just wanted to say Thank You for all the wonderful comments here on the blog and on Instagram on my Bohemian Inspired Tablescape. In case you missed it, you can read the full post here.

I hope you enjoyed my Favorites Of The Week. Have a fantastic weekend and I’ll see you back here Monday with an awesome Father’s Day Gift Guide.

Favorites Of The Week | Decorating & Entertaining

May 13, 2017

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I’m back with another round of favorite posts, pin and products to share with you. Enjoy!

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FAVORITE POSTS

A couple of days ago I shared a few of my favorite spaces from the One Room Challenge featured bloggers. Here’s one of my favorite makeovers from a guest participant, Design Enthusiasm. If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times…the power of paint is amazing when you’re decorating !

This home tour shows you how to infuse an insane amount of decorating style into 650 sq. ft.

With Love From Kat

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FAVORITE PINS

One of my go-to sources for tabletop inspiration is Celebrations At Home. Chris creates some of the most beautifully style party and entertaining tables. This blue tablescape she styled for a bridal brunch is just so pretty.

When I think of a mountain retreat I envision a home that looks just like this.

Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles

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FAVORITE PRODUCTS

I’m really trying to justify purchasing this gorgeous blue and white ice bucket by Aerin for William Sonoma. I mean after all it’s more than an ice bucket as demonstrated by Lucy of Craftberry Bush who styled it as a flower vase. #ineed

Have you checked out the Zara Home website yet? So many cute items for home and personal use. The bright pattern on this floral cosmetic bag caught my eye.

I just noticed that TJ Maxx has started to sell window valances in store and on-line. They have some nice designs and you can’t beat the price–$16.99. This Water Medallion Valance from Nicole Miller is one of my faves.

Have a fantastic weekend!

Inspiration Notebook | May 2017

May 4, 2017

You might have noticed that I didn’t share my inspiration notebook with you last month. Last month was a blur and I just didn’t have time to pull it together. Things are still crazy busy but I did manage to log an insert in my inspiration notebook this month. I enjoy taking the time to pull these pages together and recognize the things around me that provide inspiration.

When I looked at the calendar the other day, I couldn’t wrap my head around the fact that it is May. We’re almost half way through the year and I’m already exhausted just thinking about everything thing I want to accomplish before the year ends. While I can’t control the future, I can enjoy today so the pages in my notebook for May are filled with things I’m enjoying on a daily basis. Here’s a look at what’s inspiring me in work, home and my personal life. Enjoy!

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DESIGNING: I’m hoping that a new design client I’m working with will love this Gabby Clay Chandelier as much as I do. It’s the inspiration for the entire dining room.

READING: I couldn’t wait to find dive into this gorgeous entertaining book, Veranda Entertaining. It was everything I expected and more–beautiful images, inspiring ideas and drool worthy tablescapes. One of my top 10 design books ever!

RELAXING: I haven’t been sleeping well lately so I’m trying to make sure I spend time winding down at the end of the day. The Nest Blue Garden Candle is my go-to spring candle scent that helps me to relax and unwind.

INSPIRED BY: I’ve been seeing lots of floral arrangements in old wood boxes popping up on Pinterest. I love the look for a spring and summer tablescape.

LISTENING: Most days when I’m at my desk working I have jazz music or a podcast playing. The Clever Podcasts are a favorite and every episode has great takeaways for career and life.

CRAFTING: I love crafting and recently I’ve been drawn back to jewelry making in my spare time. One of my new sources for unique chain/hardware is my local lighting store for chandelier chain.

SHOPPING: We’ve got a cruise planned for early September and I’ve already started shopping for a dress to wear on formal night. I’m channeling my inner Carolina Herrera and thinking of pairing a crisp white shirt with this Red Floral Ball Skirt or this Black Floral Ball Skirt. Which would you choose??

LOVING: Just when I thought BaubleBar had it all they come out with these super cute Caicos Pom Pom Earrings.

CRAVING: Now that fruit season is here, I’m loving my morning meal–yogurt and fruit parfait. My ingredients include plain vanilla yogurt, granola, strawberries, blueberries and blackberries. Yum!

MAY INSPIRATION NOTEBOOK | 2017

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