Bookshelf Styling | Under $50 Facelift

March 4, 2019

We’ve been in our house for almost two years and I am slowly checking off my decorating list. The bookshelves were at the top of my list when we moved in and needed a facelift. There are two sets of shelves flanking the fireplace and when we moved in they were stained dark. The contrast between the bookshelf and wall was so stark and a real eyesore. They needed to flow with the wall and be brightened up.

Before…

After…

I had the bookshelves painted in my go-to white, Benjamin Moore Simply White and it made such a difference. Here’s a picture from Christmas with the shelves white and fully decorated.

After Christmas I looked at the bookshelves and felt like they were still a little flat. They needed more color so I thought about painting the back wall a bold color. I also considered wallpaper and looked at a few bold patterns but everything seemed to fight with the accessories and my floral ottomans. Then I considered a textured wallpaper and grasscloth was the perfect solution. It added just the right amount of color and texture to the shelves to bring them to life.

I lined the back of each bookshelf with this peel-n-stick navy poplin texture wallpaper (affiliate link). Because it’s peel-and-stick, it can easily be removed when the mood strikes and I want to change the look. And a single roll was only $45.

The wallpaper resembles a tweed fabric and has a really nice texture. I also like how the subtle pattern and color enhance all of my blue and white accessories.

It took me and Mr. Confetti about an hour to install the paper and then I starting accessorizing.

I removed one shelf on each side to open up the area and allow more space for my accessories to shine. Then I strategically placed the decor until I had it just right. Accessorizing bookshelves is one of my favorite things to do but it can take a little finesse until you get the perfect flow.

The Best Rooms Always Have Something To Say About The People Who Live In Them. ~ David Hicks

I’m really happy with how the bookshelves look now. The only other changes I’m planning to make is to switch out the picture frames and replace the clock. It feels good to cross that project off the list.

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If your bookshelves need a facelift here are my styling tips to help you create a beautiful bookshelf display.

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If you need some new books to add to your bookshelf, check out my latest round-up of new design & entertaining books.

If you have freestanding bookcases, here are tips on styling the tops of bookshelves.

How To Incorporate Black Into Your Decor

March 6, 2018

I’ve shared on the blog before that I’m pretty flexible when it comes to design. For the most part I believe that if you love something and it feels right then it’s right for your decor. On the flip side, there are some tried-and-true design rules that whole-heartedly believe in and feel should be a part of every good room design.

One of those design rules is Every Room Needs A Touch Of Black. In 2016 I created a Design Guide all about this rule and even shared my favorite black paint colors. As a follow-up to that design guide, today I want to share a few tips on the best ways to incorporate this color into your decor.

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♦ Black is a classic color that will never go out of style. And because black is made up of all colors, it’s a universal color that pairs beautifully with any color hue. There is simply not a color scheme that doesn’t benefit from the presence of black.♦

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How To Incorporate Black Into Your Decor

♦ Accessorize With Black–Even though the color has a lot of depth, it is considered a ‘neutral’ so don’t be afraid to use it as an accent in a room that has little color.

A black decorative accessory or one with a black detail is the easiest way to subtly infuse the color into your decor. Think bookends, pillows, a chandelier or a sculptural object.
Dark picture frames against a light-colored wall will draw the eye in while allowing the artwork within the frame to stand out.
A black lampshade instantly upgrades the elegance of a table or floor lamp.
For a dramatic statement in your living room or foyer, consider a black rug which will visually anchor the space.

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Elle Decor

♦ Decorate Around Black–Incorporating a black furniture piece into a living space adds substance, depth and helps to ground the entire furniture grouping.

An armoire, side table or an accent chair are three great black furniture options to consider.
Painting your interior doors black is a quick and inexpensive way to add a bold statement of black within your decor. Go with a semi-gloss finish so the doors with have a reflective nature and any details will stand out.

tip: if the contrast of deep, rich black Is too much, look for a piece of furniture with an ebony stain (darkest brown with a hint of black undertones)–the impact will be the same.

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♦ Accent With Black-A black accent wall or painted ceiling is not only dramatic but one of the best ways to make a small space appear larger. Forget what you might have heard about painting a small room in a light shade. In actuality, dark rooms feel larger because the room lines disappear. Black also makes details come to life, colors more vibrant and patterns pop.

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Now that you know how to add black within your decor its time to go shopping. Here are a few budget-friendly accessories that I’m currently loving.

SHOP MY FAVORITE BLACK DECOR PIECES

Garden stools are a good accent piece next to a chair or sofa and look great tucked under a console table. I love this style and glossy finish on this shaped ceramic garden stool. {affiliate link}

This black and cream rug would look great in a bedroom, foyer or as a runner down a hallway.

I can just envision a lush green plant or beautiful orchid in this gold banded leather vase.

I love the lines and classic shape of this white lamp from Target. A pair of these would look great in a bedroom or on a buffet in a dining room.

Isn’t this botanical art from Minted just beautiful? The bold color against the dark background give it a little bit of an edgy feel.

Buffalo checks seem to be a big trend in home decor right now. This plaid armchair would be a fun accent in a living space or bedroom.

You can never go wrong adding a decorative box to your decor. I love this decorative box with agate stone as part of a coffee table arrangement.

I hope the tips and inspiration I shared today gives you some ideas on how to use black to enhance your decor.

Designer Tricks of The Trade | Ideas To Inspire

April 27, 2017

Have you ever wanted to know what tricks designers use to create unique rooms? Well, today is your lucky day. I’m sharing TEN designer tricks that you can easily incorporate into your own home to get a custom look with your decor.

Some of the ideas require a little DIY, the others are quick, easy and affordable decorating ideas.

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DESIGNER TRICKS OF THE TRADE

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No. 1 REVERSING RUGS

Did you know that some rugs are designed with a defined pattern on each side? That’s like getting two rugs for the price of one. Rugs with two usable sides are great because with a quick flip of the rug you can change the look of your decor. The next time you’re rug shopping check the back side and see if it has a usable pattern.

tip: pay attention to the weave and feel of the back side to make sure you like it

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The same ‘reverse’ trick works with some fabrics too. Designer Jamie Meares used the reverse side of this dot fabric as the welt providing the perfect contrast to give the chair a real designer touch.

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No. 2 CHANGING OUT or UpSTYLING LAMPSHADES

Have you ever come across the perfect lamp but it has an awful shade? It happens all the time. It might be that the shade is the wrong shape or color, or maybe the lamp needs a shade with more style. The trick here is to buy the lamp and change or UpStyle the shade!

One of my favorite sources for lampshades online is Lux Lampshades. Lux has a quick ship program with in-stock shades of all shapes, sizes and fabrics. And their custom program allows you to design a custom shade from a range of fabrics and frames they have available.

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No. 3 USING OUTDOOR LIGHTING INDOORS

Did you know that the only major difference between outdoor lighting and indoor lighting is that the finishes on outdoor lighting are created to withstand weather elements? Beyond that outdoor lighting is suitable for indoor use. Some of my favorite outdoor lighting styles to use inside are scones and lanterns. Check out this chic outdoor light used in a bathroom by A Beautiful Mess.

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No. 4 MOUNTING A FRAME WITHIN A FRAME

I’m always taking about how important layering is when decorating and that concept even applies to wall decor. If you have a framed art piece that’ to small, think about hanging it inside of a larger frame. The two pieces combined will provide the impact you’re desiring and also give your wall decor statement a custom look.

tip: don’t overlook ugly artwork at a thrift store because the frame might be of value

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No. 5 CREATING A LARGE RUG FROM TWO

Did you know that designers sometimes create one rug from two? Let’s say you find the perfect rug but it doesn’t come in a large enough size. If the pattern works, you can actually use rug tape to create a larger size from two smaller rugs. And if you want a more permanent fix, some rug companies can actually glue the rugs together.

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No. 6 A TOUCH OF BLACK IN EVERY ROOM

This is one of my tried and true design rules. Black adds a touch of drama to a room and helps to ground the decor. Don’t think that it has to be a piece of black furniture or a wall painted black, all it takes is a touch. A lamp base, a decorative object or a textile with black in it. If you have a room in your home with no black, add the color and see the impact it makes.

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No.7 MIX HIGH END WITH LOW END

Because I’m an avid vintage shopper, I love mixing high with low. A high-quality sofa paired with inexpensive pillows or a budget friendly rug paired with a statement coffee table are just two ways to mix it up. Mixing high and low will give your decor distinct flair, add personality and save you money.

My favorite budget friendly pieces are side tables, pillows and decorative objects.

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N0. 8 MIX OLD & NEW

Just like mixing high and low, mixing old and new is a great way to customize your decor. Pair a vintage coffee table with a new sofa or a new lamp with a thrifted cabinet. The days of shopping at one store for all your decor needs are gone so have fun mixing it up.

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No. 9 PATTERN MIXING

Ask any designer and they will tell you that pattern-work is key to any design statement. You don’t have to go bright and bold because subtle colors and patterns can have just as much impact as bright colors and bold prints. The key to pattern mixing is to pair patterns of different scales and styles. You can read more of my tips on pattern mixing here.

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No. 10 EMBELLISHING OFF THE SHELF FABRICS

I love designer fabrics but they aren’t always in the budget. One of the tricks designers use to UpStyle off-the-shelf textiles is to add trim. There are some many affordable trims that can be applied to curtains, pillows or just about anything. Check out that seat cushion below that has been transformed with some greek key trim. #brilliant

tip: my favorite trim source are this, this and this

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So there you have it friends. A few of the tricks designers use when creating and decorating a space.

A little creativity goes a long way so get crafty, think outside the box and give your decor a unique spin.

Home Tour | Interior Designer Jessica Buckley

April 12, 2017

I was scrolling through the Apartment Therapy site and stumbled across a home tour they featured in Edinburgh, Scotland. The home, owned by interior designer Jessica Buckley has to be one of the prettiest homes I’ve seen in a long time.

Jessica’s style is fresh and modern with classic elements and just the right amount of feminine details. With an apparent love for color you can see that she has used color on the walls as a way to define each room within her home. The blue grass cloth on the walls in the living room is dramatic but not overwhelming. I love the depth and texture it has against all of the white mouldings and trim work. Another fun aspect to Jessica’s home is her use of patterns and how expertly she has mixed and matched them. The paring of black and white with a bold floral in the kitchen is an ideal accent for the soft pink walls. And the fabric drape over the guest bed is stately but modern.

Jessica is definitely one to watch and be inspired by.

HOME TOUR | JESSICA BUCKLEY

You can view Jessica’s design portfolio here. And check out her delightful blog here.

all images via Apartment Therapy

Design Chat: Accessorizing Bookshelves and adding the finishing touches

February 14, 2017

I received an email from one of my blog reader, Megan who was looking for help with the wall decor and accessorizing the built-in bookshelves in her family room. The bookshelves and the walls have been empty for 3 years and Megan doesn’t know where to start with a decorating plan. She is also struggling with the sofa, which she’s not a fan of but others in the family are.

Here’s a look at Megan’s family room…

And here’s my design vision for Megan’s room…

THE COLOR PALETTE

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The tan sofa, beige walls and white built-in shelves create a neutral color foundation for the room. The area rug has different tones of red, browns and green in it so that should be the jumping off point for accessorizing the rest of the room.

The expanse of white shelving surrounding the TV needs a major pop of personality. Beyond getting the right mix of accessories, I recommend that Megan either paint the backs of the bookshelves in an accent color or cover the backs with a grass cloth wallpaper. Wallpaper would achieve two things–1) color and 2) visual texture which would really enhance the space.

When painting the backs of bookshelves, I usually recommend that you go a shade or two light or darker than your wall color.

ACCESSORIZING

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When it comes to decorating bookshelves, the items you decorate with are just as important as how you arrange them. Here are a few tips on accessorizing bookshelves and a graphic with accessory groupings that always work.

Create depth ‘top to bottom’ and ‘front to back’. Arrange items so the pieces are not at the same level or position of the shelf. Your accessories should feel layered and not uniform.
Vary the size, scale and shape of your accessories. Decorate with a variety of items to create visually interesting arrangements. And also keep in mind that if your shelves are adjustable you can create wider openings which will allow for larger decorative pieces.
Create balance from shelf to shelf and side to side. As you arrange items, step back to make sure the overall look of each shelf and each side of the fireplace feels balanced.

For more bookcase decorating tips, read my post 5 Ways To Style Your Bookcase.

WALL DECOR & SOFA STYLING

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Wall decor is one of the most important elements of accessorizing a room. In many cases your wall decor will serve as the focal point for the room. In Megan’s room, the wall decor will provide a dominate impact statement within the room so it needs to be dynamic.

I recommend a large piece of artwork flanked by starburst mirrors for the most visible wall in the family room. A piece of art will add color and draw you in to the room. Mirrors will add a graphic detail and enhance the light coming in from the opposite window.

To enhance the sofa, Megan should add accent pillows and a small-scale bent arm floor lamp at the end of the sectional providing much-needed task lighting.

FUNCTIONAL DECOR

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The other decorative items I’d recommend is a console table behind the sofa, an accent chair near the built-ins and curtain panels for the windows.

A console table will visually extend the partial wall behind the sofa and create an additional surface for a lamp and accessories.

The accent chair will provide additional seating and create a more balance space, filling the now empty corner.

Curtain panels will add softness and another pattern element within the room.

THE LOOK

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Unique accessories and colorful wall decor is all that is needed to bring Megan’s room to life.

FIVE Spaces That Took My Breath Away

October 20, 2016

Have you noticed that surfing Pinterest is kinda like shopping at Costco. You go in for one thing and come up with a cart full of items that weren’t on your list. In the case of Pinterest, one beautiful image leads to another and the next thing you know you’ve been sitting in your chair for hours and your ‘pin it’ finger hurts.

My latest foray into the Pinterest black hole uncovered some really stunning spaces–space that took my breath away.

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Read the Post

My Favorite Spaces from The One Room Challenge

May 16, 2016

Have you heard of the One Room Challenge? Better yet, have you been following the design series? If not, you’ve been missing out on some incredible room transformations and amazing design inspiration.

The One Room Challenge was is a bi-annual blog series started by Linda from Calling It Home and it is now in its 10th season. What started as a design makeover blog hop has turned into one of the hottest design transformation series in bogland. The ORC has become so hot that the series recently attracted sponsors like House Beautiful, Decorator’s Best, Joss and Main, Lamps Plus, Farrow & Ball and Lowes.

Each round of the ORC features 20 bloggers/designers who makeover a space in a 6 week period. The participants select their space, develop a plan and execute the dramatic transformation while sharing the entire design/decorating process weekly on their blogs. To date there have been over 1000 room makeovers by featured and guest participants.

With each ORC I’m always excited to see that beautiful rooms created by the participants.

The latest round of the One Room Challenge just ended and I must say it includes some of my favorite spaces to date so I thought it would be fun to share a few favorites with you today. Check it out and be inspired!

p.s. you can see all of the room from the featured bloggers here and the guest participants here.

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My Favorites:

Claire Brody Designs: My favorite details are the furnishings, the fireplace and the beauty of those white walls.

Design Manifest: This kitchen space went from ho-hum to incredibly chic. I love the bar stools, the lighting and the cabinet door detail.

The Makerista: The wood paneling and trim detail on the walls in this man cave is amazing. And I love the subtle color palette.

My Sweet Savannah: Now this is the way to update a dated bathroom. My favorite details are the glass front cabinets, the vanity mirror, the chandelier, the cabinet pulls, the roman shades….ok, I love it all.

Jill Sorensen: Jill had me at the black, yellow and pop of color so used for the master bedroom. I especially love the gorgeous headboard, the window treatments and the stools in front of the sofa.

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My Favorites:

Dimples and Tangles: Jennifer knocked it out of the park with the painted buffalo check wall in her powder room. And you definitely want to check out the wall moulding, the pink door and the acrylic hardware.

Always Rad: I’m so glad I discovered this blog through the ORC. This kitchen transformation is truly gorgeous and I want that banquet eating area and those lighter over the island.

Simple Details: If you love an eclectic mix like I do, you’re going to love this living room. I was really excited to see the coffee table since my mom owns that same table. p.s. take note of the amazing accessories and styling.

Amanda Louise Interiors: This is another new to me blog and after seeing this makeover I’m a big fan. I love the transformation of the TV wall and the over mix of furniture and accessories.

The Crowned Goat: I’m a big fan of office spaces that function well and look good too. This space is ideal of blogging, bills and creativity. I love the styling on the bookcases and rustic chic details throughout.

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If you have time, I encourage you to check out all of the One Room Challenge spaces. There are just too many beautiful rooms to include all my favorites here.

Filing the Nook–Decorating Around Your Fireplace

May 5, 2016

DECORATING YOUR FIREPLACE NOOK

Elements of Style

You’ve seen them, those little nooks that sit next to a fireplace and sometimes hold built-in shelving. I’m a big fan of built-in shelving but sometimes builders skimp on the cost and effort of putting them in so a homeowner is left with an empty nook space to fill.

When Ikea came on the scene, bloggers and design enthusiast starting creating custom looking shelving with Billy Bookcases gave them the look of built-in but with a tremendous cost savings.

Laura Ramsey Furniture & Interior Design

Now, if you’re not a DIYer and you don’t want to go to the expense of hiring someone to build bookcases, there are some creative alternatives to filling those nooks that flank your fireplace.

♦ CREATE AN AREA TO SIT AND LOUNGE

I love window seats and this just might be the next best thing, a comfy upholstered banquet. What’s also great about this design option is the wall space that you’d have to hang a beautiful mirror or piece of artwork.

Roses and Rust

♦ ADD FLOATING SHELVES

Floating shelves will afford you the same function as a built-in bookcase but are much easier to install and they have a more organic feel to them. Using reclaimed wood for the shelves is also a great way to add charm to your decor. Ikea has lots of affordable floating shelf options but this one and this one are my favorites.

Blackband Design

♦ CREATE A WORKSPACE IN THE NOOK

Creating a desk or workspace within the nook is a great way to make this area functional. I love the idea of a wall unit that can be closed up and concealed when not in use, enhancing the visual appeal.

Better Homes and Gardens

♦ FILL THE NOOK WITH TABLES & DECOR

You can always fill the nook area with a piece of accent furniture like a demo-lune table, cabinet or console table. This look works great if you style is traditional and you like symmetry in your decor.

Better Homes and Gardens

♦ ANCHOR THE AREA WITH FREE-STANDING BOOKCASES

Free standing bookcases are always an option and provide great flexibility if you like to change-up your decor from time to time. This bookcase/cabinet combo is a great option and I love this glass front option.

Decor Pad

♦ HANG SOME ARTWORK

If wall space is limited in the room where you fireplace is, you might want to leave the nook area free of furniture and use the wall space to hang a collection of artwork.

Country Living

♦ ACCESSORIZE THE NOOK WITH FURNITURE & DECOR

My favorite approach to decorating the nook is to make a creative statement with a combination of furniture, art and decorative accessories.

Prepaganda

If you have bookshelves next to your fireplace or will be adding some to your decor, here are a few styling tips to keep in mind…

♥ Paint the back of your bookshelves to add a color pop and visual interest. Depending on the accessories you use, they might also pop better against a colorful backdrop.

♥ Use an eclectic mix of accessories for visual interest and to add personality to the room.

♥ Create visual depth by placing item front and back along each shelf and use items of different heights to create depth top to bottom.

♥ Arrange books vertically and horizontally to create movement for the eye to follow within the overall arrangement.

image via Dimples and Tangles

The fun part of decorating is to make the most of the space you have and putting your own spin on your decor.

Happy Decorating!

Create depth ‘top to bottom’ and ‘front to back’. Arrange items so the pieces are not at the same level or position of the shelf. Your accessories should feel layered and not uniform.

Vary the size, scale and shape of your accessories. Decorate with a variety of items to create visually interesting arrangements. And also keep in mind that if your shelves are adjustable you can create wider openings which will allow for larger decorative pieces.

Create balance from shelf to shelf and side to side. As you arrange items, step back to make sure the overall look of each shelf and each side of the fireplace feels balanced.