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Design Chat–Space Planning & Decorating a Narrow Room–Vol. 5

November 12, 2015

Hello. I’m back with the 5th installment of Design Chat. This time I’m addressing a question from another reader named Cassandra regarding her long, narrow living room.

Here’s what Cassandra asked…

“I have a long and narrow room. Fireplace on one end where I plan to put the TV above. And the entry hall directly across from the fireplace. I hate the look of over crowding but need extra seats for company. Tips?”

Well, since I don’t have a picture of Cassandra’s actually space, I’m imagining it to look a little something like the image below.

via

Before I get into decorating tips for long, narrow rooms, let’s look at two of the most common issues with a space like this.

The first issue is how to maximize the floor space with the furniture layout while keeping traffic lanes open and creating an inviting space. The other issue that’s common is how to create seating that works for 2 as easily as it does for 20.

Let’s look at solutions…

BREAK UP THE SPACE. Sometimes the best way to deal with a long, narrow space is to divide it into two seating groups. That will allow you to fill the space without giving up normal-size furniture. It also will give you the opportunity to customize each area for a different activity or level of intimacy.

via design by Carrera and Fauquié

DOUBLE UP ON SEATING. A long living room often demands more than one sofa. The scheme works because the two opposing sofas are placed against the walls/windows which keeps the room open and accessible. Side chairs placed at an angle provide additional seating without closing off the entrance to the room.

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Another option when using two sofas is to place them back to back within the room and use accent seating to create separate sitting areas arranged around each sofa.

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ADD ACCENT PIECES. An easy way to supplement seating in a long, narrow living room is with ottomans and benches which can be pulled up when guests want to join the conversation. These occasional pieces can also serve as accent tables with the addition of books or trays to create a level surface area.

Style At Home

FIND PIECES THAT CAN SERVE TWO PURPOSES. Think about replacing a traditional coffee table with oversized upholstered ottomans that can be separated and used as additional seating when needed.

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STORE EXTRA SEATING IN OPEN AREAS. If your coffee table will support it, store a couple of small stools underneath it. The stools add to the decorative look of the room but can be pulled out quickly and easily when you need more seating for guests.

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Decorating a long, narrow living room takes some creativity and many times it’s looking beyond a traditional furniture layout and maximizing the space with two areas and decorating with pieces that will work for you in multiple ways.

More design tips for long, narrow rooms:

♦ pay attention to the scale of furniture in the room. Furniture that is too large will make the room feel overcrowded and furniture that is too small will make the room feel even more narrow.

♦ take the focus on the length of the room by maximizing the height with tall bookcases, bold wall decor and curtains hung high up.

♦ paint the room a neutral color so they eye move effortlessly around the space

♦ or paint one of the side walls in an accent color which will create a feeling of expansiveness within the room

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If you have a design challenge and need some suggestions on how to solve it, just leave a comment and I’ll address it in a future installment of Design Chat.

Design Inspiration that will blow your mind!

November 10, 2015

This post requires that you grab and cup of coffee or tea and plop yourself in a cushy chair because you’re going to want to spend some time checking out every detail of these amazing home tours and photos! When you’re done, leave me a comment and let me know which was your favorite.

KariAnne shared this home tour on her blog and it stopped me in my tracks. It just might be one of the most beautiful homes in the history of forever.

via Thistlewood Farms

I could live in a mostly white house if it looked like this.

via Style Me Pretty photography by Tracy Ayton

This chic and elegant living room has a $99 rug— the perfect example of a high, low mix!

via AD

Just one more example of the power of paint, this time on the ceiling.

Country Living via my domaine

Now this is how you decorate a small space!

via house beautiful

The next time you want to redesign your pantry, take inspiration from this amazing set up.

via residencestyle

I hope you’re as inspired as I am!

Product + Inspiration: Oversized Clocks

November 4, 2015

I have always been a fan of clocks when it comes to decor for the home. I love clocks of all sizes but over the last few years I’ve seen the trend of larger clocks growing. Clocks like this Howard Miller Postema Gallery Wall Clock which measures 49 inches in diameter is not only unique but it is a great way to make a bold statement with your decor.

Larger clocks are a fun accent in a foyer with expansive ceilings and ample wall space.

Beckwith Interiors via Jennifer Rizzo

Ballard Design

Many of the larger clock made of metal can be use in an outdoor covered setting which can give your lots more options for your outdoor decor.

New Canaan Design by Town and Country Living

Large clocks are the perfect solution for that always hard to decorate wall space in a kitchen.

Found Design via looks like white

I love the idea of a wall clock anchoring a console table vignette.

via Horchow

For an uncomplicated and bold look, hang a large wall clock in the living room instead of artwork.

the painted cottage

Kylie M Interiors

And hanging over a sofa, a large wall clock adds a unique style statement and punch to a room.

Vintage Chic

If you love the look of a large wall clock, there are many different styles on the market so you can easily find a look that fits your decor.

Here’s my round-up of favorite super-sized wall clocks…

Harrington 36″ Wall Clock / Romanian Style Antique Wall Clock / 39″ Oversized Wall Clock
Pierre Wall Clock / Moment In Time Wall Clock / Chatham Wall Clock

When it comes to large wall clocks, the saying Go Big or Go Home definitely fits.

Dressing the back of the toilet!

October 29, 2015

I was looking around one of my bathrooms the other day and noticed that I didn’t have anything on the back of the toilet. The vanity was decorated, there was art on the walls and I had decorative towels, rugs and a shower curtain. The empty space on the back of the toilet sat empty so I decided to change that. I searched Pinterest for some inspiration and noticed a few tried and true decorating solutions for the back of a toilet.

Decorative Accessory Combo: Artwork + Pretty Tray + Faux Flowers + Decorative Containers

A grouping of decorating accessories adds a lot of charm to such a functional space

apartment therapy

Functional Accessory Combo: Wire Basket + TP Rolls

Displaying everyday items in a fun way can add personality to a bathroom

country living

Simple Accessory Combo: Flowers In A Vase

A simple pop of color and texture can soften a functional space

cape 27

Fragrant Accessory Combo: Fresh Flowers + Scented Candles

Even a bathroom can feel special when you accessorize with decor like flowers and candles that enhance the atmosphere

curbly

Practical Accessory Combo: Plant + Toiletries In A Jar + Candle & Matches

Organizing in the bathroom should be practical and pretty and greenery bring energy to any space

design sponge

I decided to keep the accessorizing on the back of my toilet simple and came up with three options. Here’s a look a glimpse at the decor in the bathroom…

Here are the decor options:

Option 1

Option 2:

Option 3

So tell me, have you decorated the back of your toilet? And which of my decorative options do you like best? I think I’m leaning towards option #2.

Three Entertaining Ideas spotted at the Country Living Fair

October 27, 2015

Last weekend the hubs and I stopped by the Country Living Fair for a quick trip around the park. I didn’t have anything specific on my shopping list and love to go to the fair because it always so inspiring.

While I didn’t spend much money (a whopping $3.00) and didn’t take many photos, I did come across three entertaining ideas I really loved.

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I’ve always loved setting a table to unique paper products but never thought of using vintage player piano rolls as placemats. The rolls are functional and add so much character and charm to the table. I was so smitten with this idea that when I got home I went on a search of player piano rolls and found tons of really affordable options on Etsy.

The next idea I spotted takes the music theme to a new level. Pages from a music book were set up as a collage and used in place of a placemat and runner on the table. I love the eclectic feel of the this table and think it would be really fun for a causal jazz themed dinner party or entertaining around Christmas. I’ve scored some great sheet music books from Goodwill over the years so keep your eyes open when shopping.

The third entertaining idea I saw so such a simple touch but really added a lot to the table–fabric silverware pockets. I spotted these at the Cutlery Couture booth, which was packed with shoppers. The ladies behind this company use simple fabrics and everyday embellishments to create these fun pouches.

As usual, there are always a few items I pass up at the fair that days later I wish I would have gotten but I did pick up business cards from those vendors so I can order online.

If you’re wondering what I bought, it was these three brass stencil letters for a holiday project I’m working on.

Setting the Table for Thanksgiving–Tips & Inspiration

October 26, 2015

Despite that fact that I’m not a big fan of turkey, Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I love all the pomp and circumstance that goes in the preparing food and setting the table so everyone can gather around and celebrate togetherness.

If you’re anything like me, you’re always trying to get a jump on your holiday planning, decorating and entertaining. So, today I’m outlining a few tips for setting your Thanksgiving table along with some inspiring table decor ideas that I rounded up online. Thanksgiving is just 30 days away so let the planning begin…

> Layer the table to create lushness. From linens to china and glassware to decor, layering the elements on the table will give your tablescape a warm and robust feel. Use pumpkins in different sizes and incorporate varying shades within a single color story to add visual interest.

> Use what you have around the house to decorate. Creating a unique tablescape doesn’t have to cost a lot if you shop your house. Gather grouping of candlesticks to use as your centerpiece, use decorative urns as flower vases or pull out some ribbon and use it to drape the table. Some of the best design ideas come from creativity.

> Texturized your table. Decorate your Thanksgiving table with elements that add texture like pinecones, foliage, nuts or textured charger plates.

> Take your centerpiece to new heights. When you build your centerpiece, make sure to add elements that add height which will give your tablescape dimension. Use different size candlesticks to create height or use pedestals, books or cake stands to elevate decorative objects.

> Let your table shine. Add a few simple items in metallic finishes to add a touch of shine and sparkle to your table.

> Do something unexpected. When entertaining, you should always look to add a personal touch to your tablescape so get creative by personalizing your place cards, the backs of your chairs or even with the materials you use as linens.

The beauty of this centerpiece is the layers created with foliage, candle holders and an assortment of pumpkins. If you won’t be using the ends of your table for setting, create a centerpiece that runs the full length of the table and let a few tendrils of greenery drape over the edge.

Pottery Barn Kids

This tablescape uses overlapping burlap ribbon as a table runner. Burlap provides texture but still keeps the color palette neutral so the centerpiece stands out. You can shop my favorite source for burlap ribbon here.

HGTV

Amy over at the blog Homey Oh My is one of my favorite craft and diy bloggers. While all of her projects are simple to make, they are always super chic. She incorporated some of her diy crafts into they beautiful fall tablescape using gold craft tape, glass jars and small pumpkins. This goes to show you that a little creativity can make a powerful statement. You can read the how-to’s behind this table setting here.

Homey Oh My

I love the idea of rustic touches mixes with more refined elements on a table. I single plank of wood as a runner is a great way to get that rough luxe look and it couldn’t be any easier to set up.

AttaGirlSays

Whenever you can incorporate greenery into your table decor, go for it. Greens (which you can clip for free from your yard) layered under a wood slice charger creates a really dynamic look for a fall table.

Ruffled Blog

My girl KariAnne over at Thistlewood Farms is a genius when it comes to creative decor. Here she uses a grapevine wreath as the foundation to a beautiful Thanksgiving place setting. She’s got even more inspiration you’ll want to check out here (I’m so stealing the clipboard ideas).

Thistlewood Farms

From the use what you have files, the idea of using a kraft mailing tag as a decorative name card at the table is a fantastic one. So simple, chic and inexpensive.

Collin Cowie Weddings

Here’s another idea using scraps of ribbon you might have lying around the house. Use a metallic sharpie to personalize ribbon and tie it onto a pumpkin stem to create a unique name marker for your Thanksgiving table.

Pottery Barn

I hope these tips and inspirational ideas will help you get ready for the holiday ahead.

Design Details: FIVE Rooms I Love and the reasons why

October 23, 2015

It’s my job to dissect the details of a room to evaluate why the design, layout, furnishing or even the details work. To give you a little insight into my design thought process, today I’m sharing 5 rooms that caught my attention and the reasons why I love each space.

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Creating a comfortable and stylish living space directly off the kitchen can pose some challenges. You want the two spaces to feel connected yet have their own identity. And you also want there to be some common threads with the color palettes between the two spaces.

I love this living space below because it shares the same wall color as the kitchen which creates that sense of unity. And I also love how the wall facing into the living space was painted a soft accent color which helps define where one room starts and the other ends.

Design details to love: layered rugs, potted plants on the mantle, a mix of pillows and that wood covered oven hook!

LilyPadCottage

Even though you can’t see this entire room in this photo, you definitely know that it’s a fantastic space. What gives most rooms its personality is the mix of decor, textiles and finishes used to decorate it. This living space feels right, warm, personal, collected and inviting because of the design details used throughout.

Design details to love: Animal prints (every room needs one), collected grouping of objects on the table, neutral background with pops of color and a gallery wall that’s interesting!

Driven By Decor

Even the smallest spaces in your home can have a powerful design statement. Foyer spaces should draw guests into the home while setting the tone for the homes design style. This foyer space feels so personal because of the collection of framed photos and treasures on the table. Don’t be afraid to use lots of items to make an impact–repeating shapes and materials will tie it all together.

Design details to love: Glass cloches (a great way to display collectibles), wood on wood (different wood tones make it work), gallery wall frames in the same color story but in different shapes and sizes (harmonious but interesting)

CasaSugar

Colorful rooms have been trending for a few years now and they are most successful when the room has a neutral or white base like this one. The room also works because colors are repeated which creates the common thread within the decor.

Design details to love: Two coffee tables (glass keeps the space visually uncluttered), books arranged by color and touches of black (another thing every room needs)! Oh, that sofa color is pretty amazing too.

DecorPad

Bedrooms don’t have to be bland or even cost a fortune to decorate. I love this room because of the soft color palette which in my opinion doesn’t feel too masculine or feminine. I also love the layers that have been created with the furniture, textiles, rug and accessories.

Design details to love: Desk lamps on the nightstand (use what works), a cowhide rug layered over an area rug (cowhides feel elegant), console tables instead of traditional night stands (use baskets underneath if you need storage), a dynamic accent wall (this one was created with tape) and pop of pink.

The Nester

When it comes to dissecting the design details in your home, look for the elements that bring you joy and that make your home feel good.

Happy Friday!

Stash Your Umbrella In Style: Chic Umbrella Holders

October 21, 2015

HGTV

If you’ve ever gone shopping in stores for a stylish umbrella holder, you know it’s not that easy to find one. After dealing with the same experience a couple of weeks ago, I went on online to see what was available. I was thrilled to find lots of a great styles and most at very affordable prices.

Here are my top picks for Chic Umbrella Holders:

No. 1 The Vine Umbrella Stand is my favorite when it comes to a solid colored ceramic stand. I love the open-work design and this seafoam color is just gorgeous. Also available in cream.

No. 2 If you’re looking for a personality piece, this Boot Umbrella Stand is just too cute to pass up.

No. 3 I love bamboo decor and this Antique Gold Bamboo Umbrella Stand has all the design details of a classic bamboo piece.

No. 4 Given the popularity of blue and white ceramic decor right now, the Tollmache Blue and White Umbrella Holder is right on trend.

No. 5 This Floral Blossom Umbrella Stand will add just the right amount of softness and femininity to your porch or foyer and the black background makes it versatile with any decor style.

No. 6 I’ve always said that every room needs a touch of shine and the Geo Umbrella Stand is a great way to add that glam to your decor.

So, which umbrella holder is your favorite?