Behind Decorated Doors

Comeback

2011-08-04T11:53:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time. I am pledging to return...

What have I done with my hiatus from blogging? Well - it's been interesting:

1. I had another child (little girl...she's 14 mos old now)
2. Oh, I'm now pregnant with another child (oops, another little girl, due in December)

In between all of that - I've filled my time with husband, work and any episode of the Real Housewives series by Bravo. (except Atlanta, I despise the ATL housewives)

Many updates to post around our house! We got rats in our drop ceiling in the basement - so we went CRAZY! I've knocked down walls....installed bars....gotten new front doors.....a portico off the front of the house....decorated a baby room....am about to decorate a little girl's room when I kick her out of the nursery to make way for "Our Surprise"...extreme dining room makeover...the list goes on.

Don't go anywhere - I'm coming back. In meantime, something to discuss amongst yourselves: The Comeback of Ray Bans. Good or bad?

Personalized Walls

2009-06-01T19:01:00.000-07:00

Wow?! Has it been a month. It has. Well, May kept me quite busy - my hubby and I escaped to Jamaica for eight days about two weeks ago - it was amazing.

But now I have more pressing things to discuss:

I know you've all been waiting for the unveiling of my very own Dali Decal! We affixed the decal to our basement wall recently - and I cannot be more pleased! And application was SUPER easy...the hardest part making sure everything is level.

I was also recently inspired by a friend of mine at work, Kristin, when she shared this monogrammed inspiration with me:

Such a fantastic idea. I am all about the monograms. But to put it on your wall? How simple - easy - even better than a decal! This creation made out of what appears to be trim wood has dimension - where decals do not. I am already considering variations on this: How about painted chocolate brown molding and letters off of a tan wall? OR - the background inside the frame painted a cocoa brown to make the initials pop off the wall. I cannot wait to employ at our house...I'm thinking in the Dining Room...

Thanks for sharing, Kristin! And KUDOS to your friend/family member that has this on their walls - very creative, simple and dare I say - shabby chic?

Lighting the Web

2009-04-29T18:08:00.000-07:00

I've met a new friend in the blogosphere, who has been very complimentary of my blog. Here little piece of this business is this FAB lighting site - with all sorts of deals. I am already coveting many chandeliers and fixtures on this site...

Come the time to get new fixtures in my foyer, dining room and kitchen - I'll definitely be giving them my business! Check them out: they are Quoizel Lighting and they are Lighting the Web with style and variety! Thanks for checking out my site! Please come back often!

Table Me

2009-04-29T17:54:00.000-07:00

I believe that I have failed to share my additional Nadeau purchases to round out my entry way - and half bath.

Nadeau never fails me. I purchased this beautiful table that now resides in our entry way - under one of my favorite pieces of wall art:

And look at the beautiful finish - deep dark, just makes me want to dive right in:

All for the bargain price of $171. You can't beat it.

Another table I purchased at the time for a measley $75 - fits so nicely in my guest bath. It was missing something - and this black table fit the ticket (and my wallet).

I love the detail on this table - handmade furniture has so much character.

Again - stay tuned for my Dali decal debut!

BHG Shout-Out

2009-04-23T12:24:00.000-07:00

Gotta give a shout out to one of my favs: Better Homes and Gardens.

Some great tips here on decorating with quirky, vintage items. My friend Aharon will appreciate these, I'm sure!

I need some more items for my bookshelves - I might head on out to Ebay and see what I can find! Any great Atlanta-area stores that anyone can recommend for vintage decorating finds? Come one, come all!

Stay tuned - I DID order my own personal wall decal for our basement from Dali Decals - it has been shipped - and I can't wait to get it and hang it up!

Decals, Take 2

2009-04-13T14:09:00.000-07:00

Further research unturned another fabulous site for decals:

Dali Decals!

I found this fun one as a front-runner for over my toddler's bed - but in navy:

Airplane Decal

They can even make it in customized sizes!

And we could also educate him a little with the ABC's:

Or perhaps I should monogram his wall:

I can see it now - Henry Chaney - est. 2006!

Now that I think of it - the above decal would look great in our basement! Uh oh, I smell an online purchase coming on...

What is Blik?

2009-04-13T08:29:00.000-07:00

A co-worker of mine turned me on to this site. I'm INSPIRED! The site features graphics/decals that can be placed on walls. All of them are removable - a particular line of theirs can even be reused after removing!

Our new toddler room has emptiness over the bed - as i was concerned that he would knock anything I might hang there off the wall. BUT decals would be GREAT!

http://whatisblik.com/

Some of my favorites:

Each month, the blik team selects and posts some of their favorite Threadless tee shirt designs and asks the people which ones should be the next blik design! This one is based on Byebi by Tan Wei Hau.

Byebi, Tan Wei Hau

Easy Steps by Pascal Rivet

Gerbera by Ilan Dei

This one is cool b/c it is a bunch of ovals that you put together to make your own Gerber daisy!

Practical Application

2009-04-12T20:14:00.000-07:00

Better Homes and Gardens inspires me in new and fun ways ALL THE TIME. We've repainted and rearranged the guest bedroom - I have a long wall that can be seen from the hallway that needs something dramatic. THIS WOULD BE A GREAT IDEA - and I also have what seems like miles and miles of empty walls in our basement that could be a contender for this fabulous idea!

So cost effective and unique:

Painted Ceiling Rosettes as wall art! PERFECT!

A Room to Grow In

2009-04-07T06:50:00.001-07:00

Well, you know your child needs a new bed when you walk in one night to find this:

So, we took this as a clue that it was time to re-do his room! TWIST MY ARM, right? Anyway - we decided to move him in to another bedroom altogether and leave this bedroom/nursery in tact for the next child...(nope, not preggers - just planning ahead!).

I really wanted to create a room that he could use for many many years to come without having to re-do/redecorate as he grows older. So - we went for Sophisticated Toddler...with a Star Wars spin!

The wall color: Benjamin Moore - Hillsborough Beige

Such a fantastic neutral/khaki color - not too golden, not to grey. I highly recommend!

A more substantial bed (most likely a bunk bed) is in the future for our little man - but for now the bed remains simply on a bedframe.

The furniture: Refinished (painted) furniture that used to reside in our bedroom. Color: Benjamin Moore, Stunning

See this post

The bedding: Quilt - Joshua Bedding, Pottery Barn Kids; Sheets - Star Wars, Pottery Barn Kids

(of course - The Barn wins me over once again)

Lamp: Sports Lamp - $29.99, HomeGoods

(LOVE this store!)

Sailboat on Wall: $25, HomeGoods

My husband's touch

Multi-Sports Canvas: $40, HomeGoods

Cushioned Map of the USA, $75 Pottery Barn Kids Outlet

Carried over from his old bedroom - I got this at the PBK Outlet about a year ago. It has pins that you can put in for the places you've been.

With the addition of a bunk bed, a book rack for the wall and maybe a chair in the corner - I think this room is all set for the long haul. No need for full redecoration until we ship the kiddo off to college! Once he becomes a teenager, I bet the sports canvas will have to go...and maybe a new lamp will be in order - but all in all - it's a great room to grow in!

Furniture Makeover

2009-03-26T10:56:00.000-07:00

For the second time in my tenure as Chief Designer of our home, I have given - let's nicely term it - mature furniture a makeover. My first endeavor was to turn my childhood bedroom furniture (white with blue trim and stenciled flowers) in to a sophisticated guest bedroom set.

For any of you who can remember this far back - before we sold our old house, we put our old bedroom set in to storage in place of our Restoration Hardware investment! Since we settled in to our new house - it was time to resurrect our old bedroom set and give it a facelift as a cost effective furniture solution for our toddler who is in desperate need of a big-boy bedroom! I'll save the details of decorating his new room for another post - but I will give you a step-by-step guide to turning old, scratched and mildly beat up furniture in to virtually brand new furniture!

Step 1: Fill in any scratches or gouges with wood filler. Allow to harden for at least 24 hours.

Step 2: Lightly sand furniture surfaces of wood (my hubby used 220 grit sand paper). Pay attention to areas where wood filler was used - sand these carefully. You shouldn't feel any difference in the wood where you have used filler when you run your fingers over it - it should be smooth perfection!

Step 3: Depending on your wood tone/color of furniture - apply 1 to 2 coats of primer. We used a grey primer for darker colors - since we painted the furniture a navy blue color. Allow to dry for at least 24 hours.

Step 4: Apply two coats of semi-gloss paint. A semi-gloss finish should be used to ensure durability and easy cleaning/wiping. Allow 24 hours for drying in between coats.

Step 5: And this one is controversial - Home Depot (and other paint shops) will tell you that a clear, top-coat is not necessary when using semi-gloss paint. They will even go so far as to say that it will cause you more trouble applying it than anything else. My husband is convinced that they don't recommend it because they don't sell it. Coincidence? I think not! Anyway, I used a coat of Minwax Polycrylic on top of the first set of furniture I refinished - and it not only gives the paint a nice sheen, but has protected that furniture against all chips and scratches. The last thing you want is for your furniture to chip, making it look cheap and unfinished. Even if it seems to be overkill, I highly recommend at least one well-applied coat of Polycrylic clear-coat. It doesn't even take as long as one coat of paint to apply - and will be well worth it to prevent against chips/scratches that can occur due to daily use. Refer to directions on can - allow to dry for 24 hours.

If your furniture was like mine, it has old - and somewhat ugly - drawer pulls/knobs. I went to Target and got a set of 20 for $20! It was a deal - and they look great on the furniture. TIP: New drawer pulls/knobs can do wonders just about anywhere! They could also be used on kitchen/bath cabinets to give a quick and inexpensive lift to an out-dated room.

Big-Boy Furniture complete!

Before:

Note long dresser in the above pic.

After:

For more fun ways to makeover/enhance your home with paint, click here for Better Home & Garden's tips! I'm partial to their fabric makeover ideas and the chair back name cards! OH - and on page 13 - they DO recommend TWO coats of polyurethane be applied to painted furniture! Take that, Home Depot!

Window Furniture

2009-03-25T11:57:00.000-07:00

The windows off the back of our house have been naked since we moved in. This wasn't too big of a problem when we moved in - until the leaves fell off the trees - giving our somewhat-distant-yet-close-enough neighbors a potential peek in to our lives in the evenings. Not to mention, the sun absolutely bakes our furniture around 1pm every day. Sooo, six to eight weeks ago I ordered plantation shutters for our family room, guest bath, and kitchen windows. They were installed yesterday! In the family room and guest bath, we did full panels. However, in the kitchen, we have a great view of our wooded back yard that I didn't want to completly eliminate. I opted for cafe-style shutters in the eating area - which are shutters that only go half-way up the window - allowing for privacy while the much wanted light still pours through.

Kitchen shutters below.

Family Room:

This truly is window furniture. Plantation shutters really give a room a finishing touch - very contemporary and streamlined, in my opinion - even though they are considered to be a somewhat traditional fixture. Call me crazy - but for some reason - and I could be imagining this - they make the areas that surround feel bigger. Is that due to the horizontal lines? The same way that horizontal stripes can make your hips and butt look big? I don't know - but I'm liking it!

Safe Haven

2009-03-05T07:47:00.000-08:00

So, I took yet another online quiz at Better Homes & Gardens on what style bedroom is best for me. I've recently made a mistake in painting our bedroom - I was going for a khaki/coco color - and ended up with a color that was much too golden-tan. A perfectly fine color - but was not the shade I was aiming for. We have an upholstered, natural/cream colored bed - I was looking for a little drama of a darker coco color. So, I've settled on another color (that I love) called 'Hopsack' from Duron...we just haven't had the chance to repaint (my wonderful hubby has pledged to do so - he is eager for me to be happy with the bedroom - and to finally hang up our pics/wall art!) Hopsack is actually the same color that I painted on the back of our bookshelves in the living room....

But now that I've taken this quiz - I'm wondering if I shouldn't shoot for a restful, organic green color? Apparently the style bedroom for me is 'Safe Haven.' Which is no surprise - my bedroom needs to be a restful retreat for me and my husband to escape. I think I'll stick with the not-too-dark cocoa shade I've chosen to repaint...but read below for the results of my quiz!

Safe Haven

At the end of the day, you like to escape from the world (including the rest of the family!) to relax and recharge, and it sounds like your bedroom is your retreat of choice. With the hectic pace of life today, you're smart to carve out an area of serenity. To make the most of your getaway space, put in carpet that feels good on your feet, splurge on luxurious high thread count sheets, and invest in window treatments that will allow you to block out the light and noise of the world outside your window. When it comes to color, choose restful greens or blues for a peaceful feel. If space allows, add a comfy chair where you can sit to flip through the mail or read a good book. Treat yourself to a fabulous cashmere throw that you can curl up with when the weather turns cold. Surround yourself with other items you love, like favorite family photos, softly scented candles, and artwork you adore. Finally, hang a "Do Not Disturb" sign on your door and let the relaxation begin.

Color Personality

2009-03-05T07:21:00.000-08:00

So, I took an online quiz today at Better Homes & Garden's website. Turns out my personality color is yellow! And I used to have our master bedroom a yellow color - but now, a yellow-gold is an accent color in our house....BUT, I am getting ready to paint our guest bedroom a golden yellow color - so it makes sense! Yellow goes with many of the earthy colors - so it is quite versatile!

What is your color personality??

Vampire Love

2009-03-04T07:03:00.000-08:00

So...I completed my decorating classes to promptly be swept up in the rapture of teenage vampire love. I have recently become captivated by the Twilight saga written by Stephenie Meyer. This series of books has prompted me to top my all-time reading record set while traveling the London tube for a week (on business) between Glouchester Rd & Heathrow airport reading and completing the sixth Harry Potter book, The Half-Blood Prince, in five days. And this all while I put in an eight hour day at the office! I really miss my London trips - but I digress. Anyhoo, I completed the first book, Twilight, a little slower - in eight days. However, I finished Twilight on Sunday, began reading New Moon on Sunday afternoon - and then FINISHED New Moon on Monday (or Tuesday) at 1:30am! That is two days folks! AND, I worked a full day on Monday and didn't begin the book on Sunday until 4pm! THAT IS A RECORD. And I owe it all to my glorious, wonderful Edward Cullen. Be still my heart. (Honey, don't worry - I love you. And once I complete book 4, you'll have your wife back!)

I'm in the midst of Eclipse (book #3)...and probably should slow down! I don't want it to be over - there are only 4 books! So - what does it say about me that I cannot put down a book that is meant for teenagers??? Whatever! I still love Britney too! I shall embrace my inner tweenager that is bursting to get out!

Tada!

2009-02-13T20:22:00.000-08:00

After much ado...

At long last......

Pictures of the finished family room: Sans solid wall, plus built-in cabinet, minus stained wood trim.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

BEFORE:

AFTER:

My first pass at the shelf makeover. I need a few more books - although, I do not want it to be too busy. Notice I painted the back of the shelf a deeper color than the walls throughout the room. I couldn't be happier with this effect.

More to feast your eyes upon...the cabinet up close.

The wall - BEFORE (not our furniture):

AFTER:

The view from the front door, BEFORE:

AFTER:

We're very happy with the results. Both rooms are so much more open and bright. Just painting the trim in the family room has been amazing. For the first few days, all I could do was walk in the room and stare. Money well spent.

As you can see, I'm still grappling with the mantel. I'm leaning towards not putting a picture there - but perhaps arranging decorative pieces, instead. Shelf/mantel do-over is a work in progress. I move something else each day. Will it ever be perfect? Probably not...it's fun to rearrange!

My Evenings at Emory

2009-02-13T06:31:00.000-08:00

So, last night I had my second class in Design Basics at Evening at Emory. The class is taught by Lee Anne Culpepper, a 26 year veteran of the home design business. I have to say she is fantastic. I also have to say that I apparently know more than I thought I did going in to this course! I'm learning all sorts of new things, but am also confirming some of what I thought were instincts, but now know is pure-bred decorating talent! So far it's been a great experience - and with two classes left - I cannot wait to learn more!

Some tidbits from the past two classes that I have learned:

"Rules of Thumb"

Chandeliers: hang 27"- 36" inches above tabletop
Shower curtains: hang at least 12" from ceiling. Curtain should also almost reach the floor.
Rugs - under a table: all chair legs should rest comfortably on the rug when pushed in to the table. Ideally, when pushed back, the legs would remain on the rug. However, this a rule you can break in small spaces.

We've also learned some tips for decorating small spaces - like using glass tables in a small eating space to make the area look bigger. Painting the back of a built-in-shelf can add interest and a colorful background off which accessories can pop! (Hmm...sounds like a great idea. Must be why I've already done this in our living room!) I've also learned that my decorating style is ecclectic - which is a combination of several styles. I think that my particular combination is Colonial/Contemporary/Tranditional with a splash of country. Shocked that country is in there - but I have a love of painted furniture - which is an attribute of the country style.

Next week we will be learning about wall art - how to frame, arrange, create, etc! We'll also be discussing fabric options to make a room coordinate, but not be too matchy-matchy. Can't wait to sign up for Design Basics II!!

I've been working on my shelves in the living room since our construction is now complete. I'll post pics of the finished product and the shelf arrangement that is still a work in progress later this evening. Trial and error when decorating shelves is DEFINITELY a necessity! And it's so fun!

Mantel Worthy?

2009-02-02T12:56:00.000-08:00

If you've been following along the last few months, you'd know that I've been grappling with what to put on my mantel. This decision has been somewhat stalled lately, as I've been waiting to see what the mantel will look like once it is painted. As you can see below, this transformation is imminent - so I've been beating the streets to figure out what I should place on this coveted and high profile position in our family room.

This item will be one of the first things that people see upon entering our front door - now that our wall is open. I've been looking for something a little more personal than just any old canvas print (it must be canvas b/c our spotlight above the mantel casts a nasty glare on anything framed in glass.)

My love affair with Rodney White is ever-burning these days (don't tell my husband.) And I have discovered his letter Artaissance giclees. How about 'L' for our last name:

Our sofas are red - and there is some red in the area rug....no teal just yet - but I think this could be a great opportunity to incorporate this color. I love how the right shade of teal looks with red. The question remains - is it mantel worthy?

This pic is from an earlier version of our progress on the wall opening - but gives you an idea what you'll see when you enter our front door. The mantel is front and center - picture it in white/cream instead of the stained wood below. Honest comments? Please provide!

Progress, Take 2

2009-02-02T07:55:00.000-08:00

Another shot for your consumption (excuse the poor pic quality - taken from my blackberry!). The room is beginning to take shape! Painting should be complete by tomorrow! After which I get to take the book shelf makeover by storm! I've been collecting books around the house, and taking off their covers. I'm even considering buying some old ones from used book stores! And I've purchased some fun items to place sporadically amongst the books. I'm excited about this one!

More to come!

Progress

2009-01-29T10:36:00.000-08:00

Please excuse our mess, construction in progress! Finally - my cased opening between the living room and family room, and our new cabinet for our TV are underway! Stay tuned.

Weekend Projects

2009-01-21T17:39:00.001-08:00

I opened my email this morning to find a wonderfully helpful email from Better Homes & Gardens that included 20 Winter Weekend Fix-Ups. SUCH helpful ideas - I cannot even explain. I plan to deploy some of these projects in my own home. The first one I plan to undertake is:

#5 - Update Your Bookshelves

I have posted pics of my family room - with built-in bookshelves - before. And I have been struggling with how to decorate them - not wanting to overclutter - but also not wanting to have a sparse feel to them. Below are pics of their current state:

Can't wait to have a cabinet built to hide that TV equipment (in the next two weeks)! Somehow I don't think BHG would be pleased! There cannot be an easy way to make a cable box look chic!

Some of BHG's helpful hints for updating your bookshelves include:

- Alternate stacking books vertically and horizontally

- Use framed pictures as bookends

- Place figurines on horizontal books, and layer books behind

- Remove book jackets to tone down the various colors and patterns

- Less is more! Arrange books here and there with pics and accessories in between.

- When stacking books, arrange from tallest to shortest

- Vary heights by stacking books as base for accessories

- Paint your shelves a bold color so that they become the focal point as opposed to the disparate color and pattern of your books

Some great examples of these techniques are below:

We are having work done in our family room in the next two weeks - that will end in these bookshelves and the mantle being painted a creamy white color. (as well as a large, cased opening to be created in an adjacent wall to open up the front family room to the back living room - so excited) As soon as this work is completed, I plan to get to work arranging the shelves. And, have no fear, the pics will be posted here first!

The other weekend fixer-ups that I'd like to undertake are:

#10 - Redo Your Mantle (in tandem with the bookshelves overhaul)

#18 - Big Impact with a Little Fabric (lampshades never looked this good!)

#20 - Create a Family Gallery

I will create one post for each project over the next few weeks/months.

Some other projects that are not on my short-list - but are making me think twice are:

#16 - Put Your Scraps to Use

#14 - Make a New Headboard

#11 - Add or Upgrade Your Molding

Now you have a great way to spend these long, cold weekends we seem to be having lately!

:) Get creative!

Overstock Me!

2009-01-06T19:12:00.000-08:00

I was reminded today of the fabulous deals one may find at Overstock.com! I was casually perusing, when I stumbled upon this chair. My sister has been searching for two matching chairs to put in her front living room - and EUREKA - these would be perfect! I sent her the link - and she called two hours later to let me know she bought them. A match made in heaven!

Slipper Chair O Vanilla

This is such a fantastic chair - and priced at $240 - it's the steal of the week! And my next tasks for her room is to find a pedestal table for in between - two floor lamps for behind the chairs and a complementing area rug...and also to find a great color for the walls. (the one in the pic above ain't bad!) I'll be sure to post some before and after photos as the project comes along.

Some other favorites I found while reacquainting myself:

Lily Tawny Chaise Lounge

Prescott Creme Chair

There is something so classy about this chair. Gosh - I wish I could find a spot in my house for this one...I'll look in to that!

Sand Phoenix Bench w/Nailheads

Mureno Contemporary Writing Desk

What a classy desk. Don't look now, but based on my above pics you could say I might be in a "Neutral Phase" right now. Not much color here - but there is something so classic and elegant about neutrals. Can't get enough!

Baby Steps

2009-01-05T13:59:00.001-08:00

My hopeful transition from "Corporate" to decidedly "Not Corporate" has had waves of progress. As of late - my audit gig has gotten in the way of the "Not Corporate" track. Well, in this New Year, I am proud to report progress has been made: If anyone is trying to reach me on a Thursday night in February - they will be out of luck. I will be in attendance of the Design Basics-I class in the Evening at Emory program. I'm am SUPER excited about this baby foot forward. I'll be sure to share all the fun and new things I learn. Some of the topics to be touched upon in this session are:

- Creating a home with continuity and flow
- Tips on how to choose flooring
- Space planning: furniture placemen and floor traffic
- Function, lifestyle & purpose of space
- Accessorizing, accessorizing, accessorizing!

One step down...how many more to go?

Rodney White

2009-01-02T19:42:00.000-08:00

The toddler paraphenalia will have to remain for the moment in our basement - but that will not stop me from slapping Rodney White's vintage paintings all over the walls down there:

Advantage

Nothing But A Try

Sometimes Seeing Is Believing

Rodney White has a great story - he is a young artist that has turned his perspective in to some inspiring pieces that are often up for interpretation by the viewer. Check out this video about him. He is based out of New York - but grew up in Augusta, Georgia. So he is homegrown! I love him!

As the video presents, Rodney once read in a book that "if you really want to own something, you've got to draw it." Now I wish I were talented enough to draw (and have it look presentable). I'm very envious of those that can turn their thoughts, memories and experiences into pictures. Rodney White certainly does this well...he will be one that I continue to watch as his art evolves.

Extreme Makeover 2008: Basement

2009-01-02T18:33:00.000-08:00

Just to prove to you all that I have not been quite the slacker that I seem to be - I would like to unveil to you my latest project that has taken all my time left over after being a wife, a mom & an auditor: OUR BASEMENT.

You may remember some pics I posted shortly after the big move that showed the state of the basement - stained wood trim and old, stained, white berber carpet. I refused to let my toddler down there w/out shoes - and you know I DEFINITELY did not set bare (or socked) foot onto that carpet. Have I told you all about my thing with dirty carpet? Kind of like other people's feet, it freaks me out. Soooo...it is only natural that one of my first priorities would be to clean that place up a bit.

BEFORE PICS (SHOCKED that I don't have better ones than these....):

AFTER PICS:

Stairway to Heaven...

Hallway to the bathroom...which is still under construction...

THE SPECS:

Wall Color: Twilight Gold (Benjamin Moore)

Trim Color: Cottage White (A Behr color...the ever popular Navajo White by BM was a little grey next to this color, and I needed warm warm warm colors with the caramel walls.)

Carpet: Karastan - Modena, Color: Plateau

As you can see - my toddler's things are back in their rightful positions. But the above pic shows where our new TV will be placed. (wall adjacent to the one with the windows) And then, promptly (in 7 to 10 days) this new sofa will be directly opposite!

Mammoth Sofa in Mocha (ZGallerie)

In this pic it looks a little grey - but nope, it's mocha. This is THE most comfortable sofa I have EVER sat in. And my husband loved it so much he insisted we buy it. I was a little more cautious - and asked to take a pillow home to see how the color looked with the caramel walls...it is very dramatic...it will be great!

More to come once all is in place...now, what to do with the walls?

Simply Decked Out

2008-12-10T19:18:00.000-08:00

This past weekend we put up our Christmas decorations - which meant we had to get rid of some of those boxes we had not yet unpacked to make way for the Christmas tree!

When it comes to holiday decor and tree decorations, I tend to err on the side of simple. We've purchased new ornaments on a conservative level over the last few years. And we started our tradition of choosing a new ornament each year with our two year old...and he's got good taste! He picked out some sparkly, silver snowflakes - and a great snow globe with a Christmas tree in it. Smith & Hawken provided the selection - and I have to say, that place had some great deals on Christmas decor!

Our Christmas tree has been placed in our front living room:

One of my favorite ornaments:

And the mantle and shelves in our family room:

I purchased the "Merry & Bright" blocks at the Shoppe of Vinings. They always have the cutest things!

And lastly, our dining room table:

Oh! And I can't forget about the snow globe my favorite little boy in the whole world picked out:

I'm officially "in the sprit!" Happy Decorating!

Over the Fireplace Perfection!

2008-12-04T19:52:00.000-08:00

I've been searching and searching for the perfect piece of art for over our fireplace. This is the room where the trim will soon be white - so keep that in mind. I am envisioning something on canvas - as the canned light in the ceiling creates a nasty reflection on glass. I'm thinking something with reds, oranges & golds.

Here are a few contenders - apparently I am drawn to trees and poppies...

Brilliance - by Gregory Williams

Maple Road - by Vasil

In the Sun - by Andrea Kahn

Festa Di Papaveri - by M. Luffarelli

Anyone care for a vote?? All of the sudden I am leaning towards Festa de Papaveri. Hmmm....Art.com is having sale - and they will transfer to canvas for me....

Grand Plans

2008-12-04T19:36:00.000-08:00

Alas - the audit busy season wins out! I have neglected my blog yet again. Well - this time I beg for forgiveness by teasing you with a bit of things to come.

YAY! My husband sold the second love-of-his-life (I'm the first, duh!) and we now find ourselves with the capital to do some home improvements that have made our list since the big move-in back in September.

1. Paint and new carpet for the basement. To refresh your memory, it looks like this, currently:

Couldn't find a better pic - so there is one of my son from behind! Anyway - you get the picture - lots of dark trim and some old, white berber carpet. So this is our first stop - new carpet, new paint!

2. Trim painting & wall opening in living room. Our living room currently looks like this (not our furniture!):

This trim will be painted white - and that wall you see will have a large cased opening in it. And we plan to build a TV entertainment cabinet in the bottom of the shelves you see. And of course - I cannot leave out the plantation shutters for the large windows off the back of the house:

Soooo....I promise I will get back to all of this very very soon! Plans are underway! I'm very excited!

NEWS FLASH: NADEAU FEATURED VENDOR AT EAST COBB URBAN MARKET AT PAPER MILL VILLAGE

2008-11-05T13:20:00.000-08:00

I received this email today - and just had to share:

Nadeau will be a featured vendor at the East Cobb Urban Market at Paper Mill Village (Johnson Ferry & Paper Mill Road).

Don't miss this European-Style Market shopping experience! Tons of local artisans and vendors participating!
*Holiday Treasures
*Children's Fashions
*Handcrafted Jewelry
*Gourmet Edibles
*Antiques & Home Furnishings

*$3 Admission benefits the Empty Stocking Fund & USO Georgia!

Novemeber 14-16
Friday & Saturday 10 am - 6 pm
Sunday 11 am - 5 pm
For more info, please visit: www.papermillmarket.com

**REMINDER: Nadeau is also opening its 10,000 sq. ft. Atlanta warehouse to the public, every Saturday from 10-4 until the end of the year!!! Thousands of unique items to choose from, at wholesale prices!!! Please call (770) 449-9770 with any questions!

See some of our photos at:

www.photobucket.com/nadeauatlanta and www.furniturewithasoul.com

So, I'll be stopping by this market for sure!

I'm a Woman of My Word...

2008-11-02T18:16:00.000-08:00

Well, not so long ago I pledged here exclusively that I would someday own a piece of furniture from Nadeau. Just to prove to you all that I am NOT just a lot of decor talk - TADA! I now own my very own piece of Nadeau furniture!

I bought this Queen Anne cabinet for the bargain price of $246! I'm telling you - Nadeau is a deal! (Between now and the end of the year, they are opening up their warehouse in the ATL every Saturday - more about that later.) I also purchased a bamboo chair that I had imagined sitting next to each other in my entry way - but I have found another purpose for the chair. I will post about that another time. My entry way is a work in progress, so I will post pics of the entire area when I reach the finish line. I'm almost there...so for now you can check out the cabinet.

And in another twist this weekend - I went for some birthday shopping at the outlet malls up in Dawsonville, GA (where it just so happens I bought myself a Kelly Green Kate Spade purse - but, I digress). I found my way to the Restoration Hardware store - and found the coolest lamps I have ever seen. Our front living room has been sans lighting since we moved in. So - we haven't really been able to use that room after the 7 o'clock hour. I have been searching all about - but just haven't been able to find the right fit. Well - Restoration Hardware has won a special place in my heart - right next to The Barn! I had never seen these lamps in the store or online - and I am an avid follower of this fine establishment's website. The ladies in the store could not tell me from what collection the lamps were - so I am unable to provide details - and cannot tell you where to find these lamps for yourself. (sigh) But here they are - and I paid $230 for both of them! Any of you who have purchased, or coveted, Restoration Hardware items know that this price is a modern miracle...

How cool are those? I've never seen anything like them - and they really give the room a nice twist. This room, too, is a work in progress - so I will post pics of the whole room once we finish hanging pics, etc. But I am loving my find!

Lamps

2008-10-19T19:13:00.000-07:00

Well folks, Layla Grayce does it again! I am looking for lamps - and a chandelier/ceiling mount for our guest bath.

Love this lamp: From Jamie Young Lighting - the Luna Lamp in Chocolate Brown. Unrequieted love. $212 on Layla Grayce's site. I'm tempted.

And this ceiling mount would be perfect in my guest bath. The Paris Crystal Ceiling Mount.

Imported from Italy, it is a little piece of Tuscany in your house. And the price, well - the price is a bit depressing at four digits worth of benjamins. No fair. Those Italians have all the fun.

The search continues....

Our First Upgrade

2008-10-19T18:06:00.000-07:00

So it seems I've been a little slow on the up-take these days with the posts. I apologize. Can you ever forgive me? You - my avid readers - the number of you I can count on my hand - please take this post as a token of my apologies....and a promise of more posts to come!

A quick recap - we moved about a month ago in to a house 30 years young. It is a fabulous house - with some upgrades (kitchen, thank god, among others). However, there are still a few remnants of the old days hanging around. And I wish I could use words such as vintage, charming, even old-fashioned. But alas I cannot. Instead, the words that come to mind are dated, ugly, and what-were-they-thinking? I mean, were these things really in style circa 1979? The year I was born is made of decor that is really this misguided? Oh well.

This leads me to our first upgrade: The Guest Bath

Right off the kitchen, this is the bathroom where you find yourself running to as you come in from the garage, as you are cooking dinner (yes, I wash my hands), and as I am watching TV. (Again, I wash my hands) And each time I would run to the sanctuary of the guest bath - to have a moment (or two, #2 that is) to myself I found myself wanting to hurl chunks in to the toilet each time I saw this mirror.

One other horrifying feature is the counter top - it would not be horrible in its creme & chocolate brown marbling - but the sink is scalloped. I just hate it - but the upgraded faucet (antique bronze - I love it) makes it a little better. Point is: it will be replaced with granite one day - but for now it can be "worked around." But the mirror just had to go - there was no working around that mess.

But I didn't want to spend a lot of $$, so I found myself at HomeGoods searching for a deal. And a deal I found. This bathroom is very traditional - so I wanted to add a little bit of contemporary for some balance. So, drum roll please:

I've played up the chocolate brown from the countertop in the toilet cover and contoured mat. The paintings I had from the other house - if you recall I used them in our guest bath there, as well. (See this post for pics)

The light fixture in this bathroom hangs from the ceiling and is just too embarassing to show it here. I am looking for a smallish, vintage looking chandelier to replace it. I'll show that upgrade once I find "the right one." Lighting is like marriage: jump in to a relationship too quickly and it just won't be flattering. (I just made that up - not sure how I like it - but it's late, so it's good enough.)

Let me know what you think. I'll be posting more upgrades, changes soon. Our basement is finished - but the carpet is old, and the woodwork is stained (gasp!) and the more I go down there, the closer I am to redoing it all - paint, new carpet, etc. So I'm sure that change won't be too far off in the distance.

Until next time....and I promise it won't be so long. The Barn sent me a new catalog - and I'm itching to review it's contents right here. You won't want to miss that!

NEWS FLASH: NADEAU ATLANTA SALE - SAT, 10/18

2008-10-15T19:30:00.000-07:00

Extra, extra - hear all about it! In case anyone is looking for me this Saturday - Nadeau (see my last post) is having a sale this Saturday, October 18th! Tons of dining room tables on sale! Holy crap - I'm working out a way to carve out the nickels and dimes out of budget. I need a table for our entry way - cannot miss sale.....must save my strength.....need essential rest....sharpen shopping skills....

Race you there!

Your furniture can have a soul, too! It's NADEAU!

2008-09-28T19:54:00.000-07:00

We have been in our new home almost two weeks. Most of the boxes are unpacked. None of the pictures are hung. Our first priority has been building a fence for our dogs (sooo tired of walking them!)

We did not move far from our old house - we are already familiar with the area. But we have been out and about full time in this area and are discovering all sorts of new things. We "lunched" at a new Goldberg's Deli by our house on Saturday. I decided to be very bad and get a CHEESEBURGER. Yum. We exited the deli, preparing to hop in to our car when I spotted a somewhat small furniture store next door. My husband and child seemed content - so we popped inside. Oh boy - what have I found? The name of the store is Nadeau: Furniture with a Soul. I looked around at all the fabulous furniture - and I found about five things I would buy in a heartbeat, all before I took five steps inside. I did what we all do when we find beautiful things in a store - avoided looking at the price tags until I couldn't stand it anymore. Much to my surprise, the prices were FANTASTIC. UNBELIEVABLE. This furniture is beautiful, solid, not cheaply made - yet the prices are incredible. How do they do it? My two year old finally gave out before I was able to peruse all the offerings, so I reluctantly exited, promising myself that I would return. Oh, and return I will.

SO - I immediately Googled the joint to discover just who they are. Turns out they are importers of furniture that, due to various brilliant business reasons, sell furniture in retail stores (in addition to large warehouses, etc) at wholesale prices. So THAT's how they do it! I kid you not - I found a BEAUTIFUL dining room table (seats 8) for $1095. (not including chairs, of course). I cannot find a pic of it online - Nadeau inventory is unique and comes and goes like any importing business' findings...but believe me, it was one of the most beautiful, solid tables I have ever seen. Pottery Barn, eat your heart out. And THAT PRICE!

I've provided the link up above - it does not show all of their inventory - it could not begin to do so. Here are a few of my favorites:

Brick Design Bench

A great bench for an entryway.

Now, I do not currently need bedside tables - but this one would be incredible!

The Step Design Bedside Table - Sheesum

What a nice touch to a guest bedroom - and unique. I haven't seen anything like this lately...

I have pledged to myself that I will not rest until I have a one-of-a-kind deal from Nadeau in my house. I will be stalking the store near me until I find "the one." And I will assure you - that you all will be the first to know when I find it!

Wisteria: It's not just a flowering vine...

2008-09-14T08:06:00.000-07:00

I opened up my mailbox yesterday to be pleasantly surprised by a fantastic little catalog that is now coming my way. (I will make sure this one gets my change of address...) I have no idea how they found me - I do not recall giving out my address - so it must be fate...

Introducing Wisteria to the Behind Decorated Doors blog. After carefully studying all the catalog had to offer, I am confident that something from this charming catalog/website will be prominently displayed in BDD's new home within the next twelve months! (We must recover from all of the moving expenses, first!)

Here are a few highlights:

Since I have sofas on the brain lately - this couch gives a new meaning to the word streamlined!

The Streamlined Sofa is a beautiful couch. The simplicity and the scooped sides have woo'ed me. And if you read the description, the skirt disguises casters to allow for the decorator in everyone to experiment with different configurations easily! Rearrange away, ladies! (and gents, of course!)

Next up is a chest that I am longing for - and I will find a way to afford this piece of furniture soon! The Black Bowfront Four-Drawer Dresser would be a great chest for our new entryway. Since I decorated our bedroom in black furniture - I'm trying not to over do the black. But this piece is just a little irresistible. Even my husband was wow'd by the classic lines and fantastic drawer pulls. It really looks like it stepped right out of an estate in England, perhaps?

This site really shines with its smaller pieces of furniture, like chairs & side tables, and the plethora of accessories it offers. This side table caught my eye and would look great in a traditional room that needs little interjection of casual. It comes in blue and in red - and can add a little rustic/shabby feel to any room! The Stacks of Space table is a favorite of mine:

And I'll close by showcasing just a few accessories:

Mirrors are a staple in any decorator's bag of tricks - so I have to share one - okay, two - from Wisteria's site.

The Italian Octagon Mirror is a must see - this would also look great in my entry way - perhaps above my black bowed chest? I dunno...the possibilities are endless, I suppose!

And the Antiqued Vanity Mirror would fit right in to a guest bathroom...or a place with a little counter space to accommodate. I have a dressing room style master bath - this would look beautiful on the counter.

And finally, these pots inspire a little bit of good juju for any new (or not so new) home. The Happiness Pots are inspired by a Chinese tradition at the time of marriage of receiving two pots with the Chinese ideogram for happiness on them. What a great idea for a wedding gift?

So these are a few of my favorites. Please visit the Wisteria site for even more fabulous things. The accessories and smaller furniture pieces are so unique and usable! Enjoy! I know I sure will.....

A little drama...

2008-09-10T19:28:00.001-07:00

First of all, please excuse my absence. I've been buried in a sea of boxes and packing paper...and mortgage applications...and home inspection reports...and I've only now had a moment to catch my breath. (Actually, I should be packing - but I needed a break)

This break entails a little daydreaming about a new couch. Now - we do not NEED a new couch in our new home - but at some point it will inevitable. We will create the movie room downstairs - which will need some couches - for which I will exile our current family room furniture to the basement to make room for something fresh and new upstairs. Yay!

Sooooo....I've been cruising around and found a little inspiration at Crate and Barrel. I believe that my next sofa will entail a little drama! The source of my inspiration are the sofas from the Willow collection - which comes in, of course, a variety of colors. I favor the Willow Chair and a Half in the Soso fabric in Cafe:

I love the drama that is created by a rich, deep, mocha brown against neutral walls and floors. This chair and a half also comes in the Deso fabric in a solid Cafe color:

Restoration Hardware had an interesting sofa - I love these lines! Introducing the Halsey sofa collection:

I'm not convinced that this sofa is one that I can curl up on - but it sure looks fabulous!

I also found this Hyde sofa at Ethan Allen:

In the end, I bet I'll settle with casual and comfy - something that looks lived in.....comfy is gooooooood. Perhaps something like this?

The Cayman sofa at C&B:

I also love the full sized Willow sofa - mentioned above in the Chair & a Half. Such a casual style - I could live on a couch like this:

Okay, then....it's settled! Now all we need to do is win the lottery!

Please stay tuned - we move in to our new house next Friday, the 19th. And then the before and after pics will start a-flowin'

NYC: Here I Come!

2008-09-03T12:30:00.001-07:00

In a nutshell, here is where my life stands:

- Sold a house.
- Bought a house.
- Immediately started packing for the move (in 2.5 weeks).

Anything that does not fit in to the above bullets just doesn't fit in to my life right now! Sigh. But I shall return soon! Once the sell/buy process is complete - I will be sure to post pics of the new house and give you a run down on all of my decor ideas. I want to be sure and take my time when decorating this house - as I have made hasty decisions in the past - and want to make sure I make decor decisions that will have some staying power.

In the meantime, I depart for NYC tomorrow morning with some girlfriends for a long weekend of US Open attendance, a Friday morning Regis & Kelly taping, and plenty of shopping (Although - my money right now is going in to my new house - so we'll see how much window shopping I do instead!)

Until then...

A new canvas on which to paint??

2008-08-27T19:34:00.000-07:00

Well, I've been a little busy this past week. I have mentioned in my earlier posts that our house is on the market....well, this past week we got an offer!! And after a couple of counters to get those eager buyers back in line with our asking price - (as much as we can in this market) we have a deal! OH - YEA - and we have to be out in little more than three weeks!! WHUT?

So - needless to say - we have been fast and furious to find our next house! Today we went through a record number of 11 houses in a four hour period - and found ourselves frantically making an offer on one that really shines. This offer is still in progress - so no popping the bubbly yet....but I have to say that amidst all this hustle, I almost forgot what this means: I GET TO MOVE IN TO A NEW HOUSE AND DECORATE AGAIN! I know - Pottery Barn corporate has gotten the press release - and they are licking their chops! Behind Decorated Doors may make their quarter yet!

More soon - cannot wait to share pics of whatever house we end up getting....let the "before" and "after" comparisons begin!

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

2008-08-23T18:17:00.000-07:00

When decorating smaller, smallish, or tiny spaces, mirrors are your friend. They make any space look bigger. What they also do is give a wall with no windows the appearance and the effect of having a window. I love mirrors - if only I could put them everywhere in my house. My next purchase of mirrors is for my newly decked out bedroom. I love these from Crate & Barrel:

The Dubois Mirrors are some of my favorites - and I've had my eye on them for a while now. I want to purchase three of them to put above my long & tall dresser in the bedroom. It will make a great addition to my "Romantically Organic" room! (see previous blog post on July 29th titled "Romantically Organic" for pics!) Here's a picture of these mirrors in a room:

Look how great they look with black furniture - such a nice contrast. If you remember, my bedroom furniture is black - so this is just the ticket. PLUS - my bed is upholstered in microsuede the exact same color as the chair shown in the above pic.

I already have this C&B mirror on the landing at the top of our stairs - I got it for $79 - it is normally $299 but it was a floor model that they were trying to get rid of! I love a good bargain! The Silver Ripple (this was the best pic I could get of it):

The below mirror, while not quite the right look for my bedroom, would look great in another room. I find myself back involved with Shabby Chic - and this mirror is just that. I found it while browsing the Vintage Shopper website.

The Distressed White Round Wall Mirror. Love it.

And look who I found when searching the internet for vintage mirrors: The Mirror Lady

Many, many beautiful mirrors can be found on this site. A few of my favorites:

The Old Gold Ornate mirror - 53"x 53".

Sunburst mirrors are just about everywhere these days (ZGallerie, C&B, etc) - but I like this one, the Silver Sunburst. The braided inner frame makes it a bit unique!

And I think I just fell in love with Venetian mirrors. How beautiful - all mirror, no frame!

The Georgette, comes in two sizes - 37" or 52".

And last, but not least, the Sophia:

Beautiful - a little more ornate than I usually prefer - but the etched designs have such a feeling of innocence. I dunno, can't explain it.

And, of course, I cannot post without giving a shout out to my home sweet home, Pottery Barn (aka "The Barn"). They have such a great selection of mirrors these days - again, some favorites:

The Honeycomb gold mirror. This one might be my favorite - and it gives me such a retro feeling. I could imagine myself sitting in a living room in the 60's with this mirror on my wall!

The Geometric Circles - so different. I love it.

And since I have a new love affair with Venetian mirrors, I couldn't leave this one out:

The Venetian Leaf mirror. I love the cutout leaves - would add a little glamour to any room.

Romo - As in Fabrics, Not Jessica's BF

2008-08-20T18:59:00.000-07:00

Well, I've been so busy looking at children's furniture - I realized I was in need of some sophistication. I've been loving the look of two particular colors together - one of which I have never used before in decorating (that I can remember, anyway). I've got a big crush on Raspberry & Brown combinations. I had been recently stalking one of my decorating heroes' blogs (Habitually Chic - see link on the right) when I read a recent post about Romo fabrics. I thought I would check it out - and to my surprise - there popped up Raspberry & Brown in some of their amazing fabrics!

I have to say that these fabrics are some of the most unique and refreshing I have seen in a while - and so contemporary, I'm in love! Check out this fabric, from the Manderley collection, in raspberry, brown and what seems like a mustard yellow (much prettier than my description!)

Oh yes - and this is beautiful for someone looking for less floral print/pattern. The Mimi collection might be my favorite showcase of Raspberry & Brown...

And this is the Audley collection in shades of red, brown & cream. Ooh la la!

And the drama in the Kimura collection is breathtaking - and this picture just showcases it! Black and Khaki - ah, one of my favorites:

Now, this fabric very well may be out of my league - but it is nice to dream, isn't it? This company is out of London - so if I just have to make a trip across the Pond to check it out myself - then so be it. Or maybe I can go to their showroom when I'm in NYC in three weeks??

More Inspiration...

2008-08-20T18:35:00.000-07:00

Another room at the "Barn" has caught my attention - I love the color of the walls and the bedding. And I had been drawn to navy blue furniture - but I like the way this looks - I think I've found a new color palette - and it's very sophisticated and would last a long time.

This piece is the Rustic Thomas Twin-Over-Full bed in the espresso finish, and the bedding is the Navy Kasey Quilted Bedding. I'm sold! (But I tend to make decorating decisions quickly - so I'm glad I have some time to mull this one over...)

Pottery Barn Calls to Me...

2008-08-14T20:50:00.000-07:00

I can't help myself - Pottery Barn calls to me. As I stated in my previous post - I am on the prowl for Kids' Bedroom decor. I reviewed HGTV last night for some divine inspiration - and like a magnet tonight I found myself checkin' it out at the "Barn." Well - I found a bedroom I really really like - even more versatile and long-lasting than the surfing theme. It is the Carson bedding collection at PBK:

I really like how simple and "age versatile" this bedding is. Considering our toddler climbed out of his crib tonight and nearly broke his neck - a new bed may be in his future. The crib - which converts to a toddler bed is holding tight for now - but at some point, it will be time to bite the bullet (oh, the horror of it all!) and re-do his room. I better start saving my pennies now...

And how about this bunk set? The Camp Twin-Over-Full bunk set:

This bed comes in a honey finish, navy (shown) and a lighter blue/gray color....I'm just not sure which I prefer....good thing I have plenty of time to make up my mind!

HGTV - Children's Room Inspiration

2008-08-13T20:08:00.000-07:00

My toddler is getting bigger and bigger by the day! This means that someday soon he will outgrow his crib - and I will have to redecorate his room (twist my arm - oh the horror of it all)! I'm feeling a bit guilty b/c I have been willing him to learn how to climb out of his crib just so I can start the process of finding new furniture, new bedding and coming up with a suitable color palette for his new room.

I'm not terribly fru-fru when it comes to decorating. So - when it came time to decorate his room before he was born, I stayed simple -and YES - his bedding came from Pottery Barn. I find myself going back to the "Barn" to see what they have to offer for my new endeavor. I have pretty much decided that he will have a bunk bed with a double bed on the bottom and a twin on the top. This set up should last him a very long time - which is my goal.

I decided to branch out and look at other sites for inspiration. I came to the HGTV site and found much inspiration for a toddler's room. Too bad I was more inspired by the girls rooms than the boys. (sigh) The design idea's within the 'Designers Portfolio' section are quite helpful when trying to conjure up ideas. Here is my favorite boy's room idea, with a surfing theme:

I love how grown up this theme is - and is more long-lasting than, say, a Cowboy theme or a space ship theme. I'm going to seriously consider this for his room.

And here is one of my favorite little girl's rooms:

I love the modern lines in the pattern on the bed and the fun chair! If I only had a girl.....maybe next time! (I love my boy!!)

Stay tuned - I will be sure to share more children's room inspirations. I have lots of ideas....

Increase My Traffic

2008-08-09T11:23:00.000-07:00

So, I've been researching how to increase the traffic to my blog. I can't expect to get my big break by blogging to my mother and a few friends, now can I?

One way to promote your blog is by linking to others blogs. SO: introducing my two new best friends: Material Girls (two design divas out of Texas) and Habitually Chic (a NYC design professional). They don't know it now - but they are my new heroes. I figure I need to make connections any way I can - so look out ladies - I want to share your styles with my (oh so very few - but soon to be many) readers!

I have been so encouraged by all the decorating blogs I have stumbled upon. I just want to take each one of them out to lunch to figure out how the heck they got started in this business. Tips - anyone, anyone? I did notice that Material Girls started out by going to design school - and Habitually Chic works for a design firm in the Big Apple. Uh so - how does an informally trained eye get her big break, girls?

Shabby Chic: Meet Layla Grayce

2008-08-07T17:59:00.000-07:00

So I've been searching the web voraciously looking for new inspiration. I stumbled across this online site, Layla Grayce, and just had to share it with you. If shabby chic is your style, Layla Grayce is your girl. The site has women's items, children's nursery decor - but more importantly, a fantastic home store!

I've spent a good amount of time searching through their rugs - and I have to say they are fabulous. I think that an area rug is a focal part of a room and, depending on the room, should not be an after-thought. You know how sometimes, we women, buy a pair of shoes, and then FIND an outfit to wear them with? Well, on occasion - for the "right" rug - I am tempted to do just that. And why not? When decorating any room, it is always a good idea to pick that first "element" to build your room around - so why not build a room around a rug? I am particular to Layla Grayce's Colorful Cottage Collection - which is more than just rugs. Here are a few of my favorites:

Sonoma Rose Rug

I am trying to talk my sister in to this rug in her living room. I think it is so unique and would really make a statement in any room. Of course, with a rug like this, one would want other upholstery to be solid colors - with some accent pillows to complement the hues and pattern of the rug.

Tapestry Rug

This rug is fun. So many colors to work with....I wish I had a spot for it in my home. If we sell ours soon, maybe I can work it in to the new house.

There are so many more decor items on this site, I cannot possibly talk about them all. But if you're looking for something unique - with that shabby chic feel - this site is a one stop shop!

I love these mirrors:

I must stop myself - but please check out their lighting section, too. There are some great lamps and chandeliers! Decor inspiration abounds!

New Pillows

2008-08-04T19:15:00.000-07:00

I recently took a class at my local Pottery Barn on decorating with color and pattern. It was a good class - it gave me some great ideas (Albeit, ideas on how to use Pottery Barn merchandise... Well played PB marketing execs, well played). They do give you a 10% discount on items in the store to use for the day - and use it, I did!

I've always struggled with the pillows on the couches in our family room. See my previous post - they were pretty standard - green and off-white. I've been dying to branch out - so let me know what you think!

Thanks to the creative gods at Pottery Barn for all of their groovy color combinations in their Fall 2008 line. I highly recommend viewing their website if you have not already familiarized yourself with it. It is all about color, color, color.

But I digress, so I was sitting in Pottery Barn attending my free class when it dawned on me that orange and red aren't just for superheroes. Orange and red could actually look good together - as evidenced by this fabulous flowered fabric - the Serafina Pillow Cover:

My internal monologue: "Hmm. Never would have thought. Oh - wait - I have red couches. I hate my current pillows. Nah, these wouldn't look good. Would they?" Insert my helpful friend, Jayna, who practically threw the pillows in my arms and made me purchase them (at least, that is the story I told my husband.) So - Jayna made me do it. And she is brilliant! Orange and red - how fun!

Family Room Re-arrangement...

2008-08-04T18:26:00.000-07:00

Yet again, our stager took one look at our living room and took it upon himself to make many suggestions regarding furniture layout, etc. The shape of our room presents a challenge when placing furniture - there is really only one wall to place pieces against due to the open floor plan of our kitchen, eating area and two story living room being all one room. So - here is the family room before. Note the large sofa, smaller sofa/loveseat & oversized chair with ottoman. And yes, yes - thanks to my toddler, we had a train table "acting" as our coffee table. No mas!

And now - here are the after pics. We got rid of the wine pics on the wall - got a new floor lamp (Restoration Hardware), new round, coffee table and matching end table in black (Pottery Barn), we stored the oversized chair & ottoman. Thanks to my friend, Aharon, for donating the Tuscan scenes that are now hanging on the wall in place of our tribute to the wine country. Oh yea - and we painted the green wall the same color as the rest of the house. Personally, I liked the green wall - it was painted green when we moved in - and it worked. But when trying to sell your house - neutral is best. Rick says, "Less is more." And he's right....so we bit the bullet. Drum roll please......

Note the pillows on the couch....I'm foreshadowing for my next post. I know - the suspense is killing you. It's killing me too!

It's amazing what a little paint can do....

2008-07-31T19:08:00.000-07:00

Five years ago when we purchased our house - it came with a full bathroom downstairs (instead of a half) and it was painted deep blue. The paint was textured - so the walls looked almost like stucco.

Rick, our home stager, told me to lighten up! And I agreed. This was one of those rooms where you don't hate it - so you leave it. And there was nothing wrong with the blue walls - but lightening up the color made a world of difference - and now I more than like it - I love it. A little paint ($40), a new shower curtain ($20), and some new towels and, voila!

Totally different, right? The wall color is by Benjamin Moore (HC-116 - I can't remember the fancy name for it) and the towels & shower curtain I got at Bed, Bath & Beyond (my mecca, as my husband likes to say). The wall hangings were also purchased at BB&B. A little paint can go a long way to completely change a room. Light colors help to open up small spaces - and this bathroom is definitely on the small side for a full bath. This is an example of a much less expensive "makeover" - and it's super easy, too! Stay tuned - more rooms to come....

Romantically Organic

2008-07-29T18:34:00.001-07:00

Our house is on the market - and in preparation, my husband and I redecorated and rearranged a few of the rooms (at the urging of Rick, our home stager). In all the excitement of the possibility of upgrading to a larger home (we want a basement) I eagerly followed Rick's suggestions to the tee (well, almost). One of his suggestions was that our master bedroom had to go. Now Rick did not say, "Please purchase all new bedroom furniture, lamps, bedding & wall hangings," but he might as well have - b/c that is exactly what I did. Don't gasp - it was in the budget to get all new furniture when we moved anyway - I just took the opportunity to have fun purchasing now, instead of later.

I decided to come up with my own style for our bedroom. I wanted it to be soothing, serene & romantic. Previously, I had Pottery Barn red embroidered flowered bedding with what I call a "Spanish Flare." It was fun bedding - but not what I would call "Romantic." So I packed it up and got some new bedding - along with new furniture, a new bed (upgraded from Queen to King), new lamps, & new wall decor. Here is a picture of what it looked like before:

And here is a picture of what it looks like now.

I call this style Romantically Organic. And I premiere it here for your review! It features the same wall coloring (very economical on my part if I do say so..), black furniture (Restoration Hardware), glass lamps (ZGallerie) to contrast substantial furniture and flowy (a technical decorating term) drapes. I chose a muted sage green as an accent color which complements the tan/taupe & cream predominant colors.

Organic elements include:

Metal leaf wall hangings (Pottery Barn)
Silk peonies and greenery in glass vase (Pottery Barn)
Picture of boat in water with grass (Target)

Romantic elements include:

Wispy, sheer valance (Target)
Roses w/greenery on bedside tables (Bed, Bath & Beyond)
Large, sage green candle on glass pedastal (Pottery Barn)
Upholstered bed (Restoration Hardware)
Dramatic, black furniture color (Restoration Hardware) against taupe walls with bright, light cream bedding (Nicole Miller - Cityscapes bedding, BB&B)

I have to say one of my favorite elements is the crystal "cubist" lamp, and how it accents the geometric square pattern that is on the bottom of the duvet cover and matching shams. I also must add that this was not one of my most economical efforts. I assure you the staging/redecorating efforts in the other rooms of my house were much more cost conscious. I will share these "makeovers" with you in the next few posts!

A Blog is Born...

2008-07-26T13:45:00.000-07:00

So this is where it all begins. Let's start with the usual introduction: I am a corporate professional - have been for the past six years since I graduated from college. I am a wife. I am a mother to a toddler. I am happy with my job - but want something more from my career. I want more flexibility and more importantly, more creativity. Could I continue in my corporate endeavors and live a happy life? Yes. But I feel there is something more that I can do - that I can become...

So this is where I will begin the journey. I want to decorate. Some people have car passions, boat passions, plane passions. I have furniture passions, wall coloring passions, wall hanging passions, & area rug passions. All I want to do is flip through various home store catalogs: Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, Restoration Hardware (my new obsession since my husband and I recently upgraded our bedroom), ZGallerie, and my repertoire expands every day...I'm voracious for new inspirations.

Now - I'm a smart girl....but I find myself clueless on where to start. How do I get myself from here (highly paid, corporate 9-5'er) to there (highly paid, decorating how-to girl)? Stay tuned - and maybe I can inspire someone else to change their world, as well. I have no guarantees where this blog will end - what the results of this search, this endeavor will be - but I what I can guarantee is that I will share every step with you. And so it begins....