W.O.W Wednesday- Create perfect spaces with "inspiration boards"...and save on gas at the same time.

I am notorious for purchasing things and taking them back.  I've always been a "fly by the seat on your pants" type person, but I'm learning that when it comes to decorating sometimes having a plan is just plain better.  That doesn't mean you can't be flexible or spontaneous, but a little forethought in planning out a space is usually a good thing.

So, my word of wisdom for today is...use an inspiration board.

I've mentioned them before, but I really like the photo editing website Picmonkey.  I could spend hours playing around with my pictures and they have a great, new "collage" tool that is perfect for making inspiration boards.

I am hopeful that this little gem will significantly cut down on my returns and in turn will significantly improve the gas budget.

I have been struggling with decorating my master bedroom.  I have gone through countless throw pillows, several quilts and comforters and dozens of lamps and shades in various configurations.  I still haven't gotten it right.  

Well, all that is about to change...hopefully.  I used the Picmonkey collage tool to pick out all of the components for my "ideal" bedroom.  Even if I can't afford, or can't find the exact item, it still gives me a great starting off point before I head out shopping.

I've been ogling these frayed edge sheets from West Elm.  I love the look of classic white sheets.  They are so versatile and so fresh and bright.

I also found these beautiful geometric/tribal-esque accent pillows at West Elm that would be perfect in the space.

My birthday is coming up next week and I'm hoping Studs might let me get a new bed.  Ideally I'd love a bed like this reclaimed wood one.  My room needs some warmth and this bed would definitely do the trick.

I've already got a set of gold floor lamps similar to one below

And of course my blue nightstands

And here's how everything looks together.

Seeing everything together helps me visualize how it will all play together and look in the actual space.  I love how all of colors and patterns compliment each other, but as much as I love my royal blue nightstands, I may end up having paint them another color.  What do you think?  A little too bright?  Okay?  What color should I paint them instead?

So, the moral of today's post is...

do yourself a favor and save yourself time and gas money by creating an inspiration board before you set out on a shopping journey.  There is nothing more frustrating than spending hours at the store and not finding anything, or spending hours at the store only to have to return everything.  With an inspiration board you can plan out exactly what you want/need and can set out shopping with a plan in hand.

These are a few of my favorite things...and my first W.O.W. Wednesday

I've decided that there are three things I enjoy most when it comes to home decor.

First, I love an awesome find. I love it when I come across things that I have been searching for.  I also love it when I come across things that I never knew I wanted or needed until I find them.  The thrill of the hunt is an addiction for me.  I can't wait to share a couple of recent, awesome finds in some upcoming posts.

Second, I love learning all about interior design tips and tricks.  I don't have a degree in interior design and sometimes I wonder about "the rules".  So, when I post about decorating helps, it is often more for me than anyone else.  I mean, sometimes a girl just has to be reminded of the appropriate height a chandy should be hung at, right? 

and...

Third, I love DIY'ing.  Admittedly, I am a bit of a cheapskate.  I have a hard time shelling out money for housy things because the trends are constantly changing, but by doing/making them myself I can save money.  Plus it's kind of empowering to make and do something yourself.  Also, I'm a sucker for a good hack and I am often searching for something to knock off.  What can I say, it gives my life purpose! 

I've talked a bit about getting some structure on the blog and think these three points could make for some enlightening posts.  So, my goal will be to try and post three times weekly...emphasis on the try.  

Make It Monday...posts will focus on DIY projects of all kinds...furniture redo's, knock-off's, home improvements... 

Words of Wisdom Wednesday...posts will center on helpful DIY'ing and decorating ideas and tips.  I may even call upon your wisdom {or opinions} as I occasionally throw out some "hot or not" topics with regards to current design trends.  

Fabulous Finds Friday...posts will be dedicated to awesome "finds".  These finds might include:  cool product "finds", fabulous furniture and home decor "finds" , thrift store/yard sale "finds" etc.  Pretty much anything I "find" will be fair game.  

And to kick off my new structure...

Today's W.O.W Wednesday...Accessorizing a nightstand!

It is Wednesday, right?  Stud's has been out of town again and my days start to blur and run together when he's gone.

First rule of thumb, the nightstand should be about the same height as the top of the mattress...for obvious reasons.  If it's a couple inches taller or shorter, no biggie.

 {source}

For the actual accessorizing of the nightstand I utilize the phrase thriller, spiller and filler.  I know this catchy little phrase is more commonly associated with gardening and accessorizing planters, but I think it works here too:  thriller {something tall/vertical}, spiller {something horizontal}, and filler {something that adds color, texture or visual interest}. 

Thriller-   add a lighting source, whether it be a lamp, a pendant or wall mounted sconce.  Not only will having a light source right next to the bed eliminate you having to get out of bed to turn off the lights, it adds height to your nightstand vignette.

{source}

Spiller-  a stack of books, a small tray or box for jewelry and keys, or interesting figure or horizontal sculpture will ground the space and add horizontal interest.

{source}

And finally...

Filler-  a knick knack, framed picture or art piece, or vase of flowers could be used to add texture, color or interest.  

Note the use of stacked rocks, a single flower head, some rope and a picture were all used in the photos above as filler.  I love the quirky brass rhinoceros used in the photo below.

{source}

  

Just remember, choose items that will be functional {and fashionable} and that speak to you and reflect who you are and that accessorizing a nightstand is really as easy as 1) thriller 2) spiller 3)filler. 

A perfect opportunity...and layered rugs: totally dope or a big, fat nope?

So, you know how I've already started planning the kiddos bathroom upgrade, but was waiting for just the right moment to spring it onto to Studly?

Well, that moment happened!

Yesterday, Studs was swamped with work and I got a text...it said, "I will pay you $1000 for a turkey sandwich". 

Okay, for Studs to be asking me, the world's worst kitchen klutz, to be making him a sandwich I knew he must be desperate.  Being the super savvy-super sleuth that I am, I knew this would be the perfect time to pitch my next project. 

So, I responded by saying,  "How about a kids bathroom redo instead and you gotta deal"? 

And he responded, "Yes, whatever you want.  Please, food."

Now, I'd be a fool to actually think that he would really pay me $1000 for a turkey sandwich, but I am going to hold him to his word.  I've saved the text as evidence. 

So, here's to another bathroom remo {that's short for remodel}...once we get the current one finished anyway.

And now for the design question of the day...layering rugs...totally dope, or a big, fat nope?

I personally like the look of layering rugs.  I find the look interesting and cozy-casual.  But, I'm wondering if it might be all the veneer glue talking.

I have provided some visual evidence which I feel supports my stance that layered rugs are, in fact, totally dope.

I'll start you off easy.

{source:  pinterest}

Okay, now buckle up.

 {source:  pinterest}

{source:  pinterest}

I love this faux "layered rug" look by flor.com

 Carpet tiles be da bomb yo!

Aside from the fact that this layered look could pose a bit of a tripping hazard {which in our household doesn't need any encouragement} I think I have reconvinced myself that layering rugs is totally rad.

So, whadaya think?  Have I inspired you one way or another?

Finding your personal {design} style.

I’ve been thinking a lot about the ins and outs of making a house reflect one’s personal style. I don’t know about you, but sometimes, well a lot of times, I find myself up against a {design} wall. I’m beginning to realize that this usually happens when I’m trying to force something that isn’t really me. This got me to do some deep, thinking? Who am I? What do I really like? And how can I transfer these discoveries into the design of my home. {Who knew interior design was so introspective?}.

Here’s a list of some thoughts and questions I recently asked myself. They helped give me perspective and narrowed down my design aesthetic, and I thought they might help you too.

1- What affect do you want your home to have?

It has been said that there is a definite link between color and emotion. This idea should definitely render some consideration, since the colors you choose to decorate with could quite literally affect your mood.

When I was young and energetic in my twenties, it was all about bright colors.

 I loved the color red…which is one of the most stimulating colors on the color wheel.

{freshhomeideas.com}

But now that I am old and in my thirties and life’s beginning to feel a little more hectic, I find myself favoring a more calm and relaxing atmosphere. Consequently, my color of choice nowadays is turquoise…along with a few other bluish hues.

{chicgeekdesings.com}

Interestingly enough, blue just happens to be one the more soothing colors on the color palette. Believe it or not, your surroundings and the colors within them, can have a profound effect on your emotions.

2- Consider your own personal style.

When designing a room, use your clothes closet to help give you some design direction.

Are you trendy…always wearing what’s new and fresh? Or are you more classic…still fashionable and put together, but with a more timeless style?

Do you wear lots of bright colors,

{housebeautiful.com}

or do you prefer more muted tones?

{freehouseinteriordesignideas.com}

Are you a little quirky {I always reference Zooey Deschanel on this one}

{comohodesign.com}

or do you prefer something more elegant and sophisticated?

{homedit.com}

What is your favorite color to wear? What color is most prevalent in your closet?

What is your outfit of choice? Is it something laid back and comfy {think slip-ons and jeans}

{southerliving.com}

 or do you prefer something a little more glamorous and glitzy {jewelry and heels}?

{lilyandrose.net}

These preferences can help you dictate what interior design colors, themes, vibes and aesthetics you will most likely prefer.

To put it into a practical setting, my very most favorite piece of jewelry is a long, chunky turquoise necklace that I wear with almost everything {my whole entire house is accented in turquoise…go figure}. But maybe for you it is your favorite pair of leopard print flats {consider animal print rugs or throw pillows in your home}

{enchanteddreamweddings.com}

or your favorite gold bangle {consider gold accessories such as lamps and picture frames}

{decorpad.com}

Whatever it is, figure out how you can translate it into your personal space so you can really make it yours.

 

3- What inspires you?

When you are at the store or surfing the net, what types of things seem to really speak to you?

Do bold, geometric patterns get you giddy,

{designshuffle.com}

 Or is it old, vintage items with stories to tell?

{homeklondike.com}

Are you moved by the clean, simple lines of modern design,

{mobfin.com}

or inspired by the rustic, earthiness of farmhouse style?

 {ehomee.com}

Are you inspired by nature, or by the hustle and bustle of city life?

Whatever it is, think about it and narrow it down.

What truly inspires you? Consider every aspect of your life: religion, hobbies, interests, family, traveling, etc., and find a way to incorporate it into your design. 

Another technique I’ve started using is to make a collection of rooms that I not only like, but absolutely love…rooms that I would consider my dream rooms {thanks to pinterest for making this a whole lot easier}. Take a moment to see what all of the rooms have in common. Odds are there will be some underlying thread tying them all together. It might be wall color, or the color palette as a whole. It might be the furniture or artwork, or even the overall style: modern, vintage, farmhouse, boho, etc. Once you’ve got it pinned down, you are well on your way to finding your own personal design style.

Do you have any suggestions to add, or thoughts on how you came about finding “your style”? Inquiring minds wanna know, so don’t be scared to share.

Design Feast

Since school let out and all the chicklets are home, my regular routine has gone out the window {today, the kiddies and I didn't even get out of bed til 10:00, and number five is still running around in a diaper. I have no defense, we are totally white trashin' it today}.

I haven't had a lot of time to attend to "my projects". Instead they have been temporarily replaced with the kids' projects and outings {today we made homemade Shrinky Dinks, whilst intermitantly jumping on a soggy, soap laden trampoline.} I know, I totally sound like an awesome mom. But as we all know, a heaping dose of sun and physical exertion means an early evening all to myself tonight, thanks to a little trick I call heat exhaustion.

While things may have slowed down a little in the hands on project department, I always make time to research and gather ideas. I am always looking for design inspiration and I thought I'd share a few.

1. Coffered Ceilings- I have been buggin', err beggin', Studly to put up coffers in the house for over a year now. I break out into hot sweats every time I see them.

This kitchen looks amazing with the coffers. They add so much richness to the room...and the all white pallete *swoon*. I am dying to try this in my kitchen/great room.

2. Board and Batten Anything- I am totally obsessed with board and batten. We just put some up in the entryway and down the hall. It is such an inexpensive investment, and the results are anything but cheap looking.

This board and batten headboard is gorgeous. I am amazed at what a little molding can do to a space.

I never used to be a fan of all white walls, but as my love for b&b has grown, so has my affection for a crisp, clean white wall. This room looks absolutely serene.

I know it's not okay to covet, but I am totally in love with this bathroom. I think I may have found the inspiration for my master bathroom redo.

The Lettered Cottage is my go to whenever I need inspiration or ideas. This mantle is absolutely gorgeous...again, with a hint of b&b. I may have found another inspiration picture for my mantle-less family room.

3. Wood plank walls- this is another design element I would love to work into the decor somehow. I'm thinking about trying it in the nursery and/or girls' bedroom.

I love the little ledges created by the molding. {source: Pottery Barn Summer 2011 magazine}

I really love the rustic look of the wood in this picture, mixed with the white curtains and furniture...classic. {source: Pottery Barn Summer 2011 magazine}

{source: Pottery Barn Summer 2011 magazine}

{source: The Lettered Cottage}

I love the repurposed wood in this picture. It used to be an old gym floor. {source: The Lettered Cottage}

The key now is to try and implement some of these ideas into my house. Not sure how I'm gonna butter ole Studly up yet, but I'm workin' on it. Fingers crossed that by summer's end I will have checked at least one of these things off of the wish list.