Thanksgiving Decor: The Table

Happy Thanksgiving! In my last post, I’ll be showcasing the dining room table. I decorated the front half of the table with leaves and various types of faux pumpkins and squash. In addition to the centerpiece in my previous post, I also added a bit of whimsy by having a cute little turkey peeking out from behind the vase and angels.

Thanksgiving table 1_2015

The placemats (below) are both functional and tie together the room’s colors and decor. Another great idea? In front of each placemat, place a folded piece of textured paper and sit it upright. While mine is currently blank, you can use yours to add well-wishes, write your guests’ names, or create a mini piece of art.

Thanksgiving table 2-placemats_2015

I hope you’ve enjoyed my series of posts focusing on Thanksgiving decor. Hope you have a wonderful day filled with fun and great food!

Thanksgiving Decor: The Centerpiece

Simple centerpiece_Thanksgiving 2015In my third post I’ll be showing off my beautiful centerpiece. This centerpiece features a crystal vase filled with Fall foliage and three angels in the forefront. I came home to find that my Mom added the three angels while I was at work (the two small ones are from Germany). I loved the beautiful simplicity of the arrangement, so I kept it as is! The colors of the angels, foliage, and tablecloth all blend together perfectly. Except for a handful of flowers, everything else was something we already had. If possible, it’s preferable to decorate with items you own. It’ll give you a chance to be creative with long-lost treasures, and to demonstrate your overall sense of style.

Thanksgiving Decor: The Front Door

Front door_Thanksgiving 2015Every year I like to add some sort of decoration around the front door. Because of its proximity to the wall in my previous post, I decided the best choice would be a design that also used leaves. Instead of using the same type of leaves, I opted for larger ones in a slightly different hue and created a border around the door. It’s a simple design, but also adds a touch of color to an area that would otherwise be plain. Some people feel that you have to create a fancy design to have a cohesive look throughout your home. However, often a simple design is all you need to make a bold statement and create a unique space.

Thanksgiving Decor: The Living Room Wall

Thanksigiving_Living room wall 2015Welcome to my series on Thanksgiving decor! I’ll begin by showcasing how I decorated my living room wall. I wanted to do something different from the design I used last year, and decided to create a design that was reminiscent of leaves swirling in the wind-and I nailed it! As seen above, the pattern meanders up and across the wall to create a delicate and elegant design. I also created a heart-shaped pattern directly underneath the mirror, which adds a bit of whimsy to the space. I hope this first post provides some inspiration for your Fall decor, and that you stayed tuned for more fun decorating ideas!

The Artistic Water Garden

Water Garden_dryThe concrete structure pictured above is not simply an art installation, it’s actually a Water Garden! This structure is made up of multi-tiered fountains that were designed to create a unique urban oasis that included trees, a brick walkway, and lush lawns. How nice to walk out of your office building and be greeted by a lush lawn and the sound of flowing water! Sadly, the fountain was shut off due to leaks and a cracked foundation, and the repairs have been on indefinite hold. Despite this, it’s still a place that can be enjoyed daily by the surrounding office buildings. Remember, even places that have lost their luster are still a great inspiration. Whether it’s an old building or unused fountain, these places offer both a respite from the daily grind and a great photo op!

Flowers Blooming in Fall

Fall flowers_rosesThis time of year we typically see our lovely gardens go dormant. However, there are some flowers that seem to continue to bloom throughout the Fall. I found a group of small multi-colored roses (right) on one of my walks. It was so nice to see this pop of color on a rainy day! There were pink, yellow, orange, red, and white roses mixed together in this one spot. Using flowers in your garden that bloom into Fall is a great way to keep your outdoor spaces looking bright and colorful. Not sure what to buy? Check out your local garden shop or big box store for ideas. With a bit of planning and an eye for design, you can create a colorful Fall garden for all to enjoy!

The Pyramid-Shaped Lamp

Pyramid-shaped lamp_lightMany would agree that most outdoor lamps can be described as plain. However, not far from where I took a picture in one of my previous posts, I spotted this very cool looking lamp! The top portion looks like a pyramid with alternating clear and opaque stripes. I love the sleek design of this outdoor lamp, and how it creates a pop of interest in an otherwise ordinary space. As the photo to the right proves, it doesn’t take much to add interest to any space. With bold choices and striking designs, you can create a design-worthy oasis that’s sure to please.

Brick and Stone

Brick and stone combination buildingAs someone who loves architecture, I couldn’t help but notice the striking combination of brick and stone on a nearby building. The majority of the building’s façade is made up of bricks laid horizontally, with those above the windows laid vertically. The top portion features a plain stone band, with a second band of carved stone below it. The reason this works is because the building’s brick isn’t your typical red variety. It’s a softer color variation that allows the stone bands to pair well in the overall design. In addition, the carved stone creates a unique architectural element that gives an elegant twist to an otherwise ordinary building. You can create a similar look by adding a border to any room in your home. Borders are an easy way to add interest to a space without investing a lot of time or money. With a little imagination, you can add a special touch to any space!

Metal-Clad Monolith

Metal-clad monolith_public artOn one of my walks, I discovered a small plaza tucked away between two buildings. Turning a corner, I discovered a large piece of art that was clad in silver. As seen above, it was a series of interconnected blocks in various shapes and sizes. I love the simple, yet unique, look of this piece. Want something similar for your own outdoor space? Start small by buying pieces at your local garden center, installing a uniquely shaped pergola, or creating your own by using stone, wood, or brick. Whether you buy or create your own, you can easily bring beautiful art into your outdoor space!

Abstract Art at Home

Abstract art_universityThe photo on the right is an abstract piece of art at my local university. It’s affixed to a pair of gates leading to the campus’ church. While I’m not sure what this piece is supposed to represent (I believe it was an interpretation of a bird), it’s still nice to see the whimsy in such pieces of art. While most of us can’t afford a custom piece of art, you can certainly use a photo of one in your own space. Feeling creative? Try making your own abstract art at home! You can use any medium: clay, paper, paint, wood, or glass. No matter how you go about it, you can easily bring abstract art into your space!