Shortly after the Rhododendrons I pass on my daily walks began to bloom, we had an unexpected spate of cold weather. While we had to deal with cold winds, icy roads, and snow, it also created a myriad of photo opportunities. One such example is the photo above of a snow-covered flower. The pink flower and green leaves are not only the perfect contrast to the white snow, but also show the beauty of nature’s seasons colliding in a single shot. A similar photo on a table, in conjunction with a clear photo frame and pastel-colored accessories, is the perfect update to any space. No matter what time of year, you can create a bright and inviting space that will bring nature’s colors indoors.
Tag Archives: accessories
Updating A Nightstand
Several years ago I bought two nightstands to flank each side of my bed. While I still liked the overall look of them, I felt something needed to be updated: the knobs. I wanted something that was a bit more unique than the plain silver pulls that came with the nightstands.
I went to several of my local craft stores and finally found what I wanted. They featured an abstract blue and white pattern that reminded me of the ocean, a brass-colored edge, and was more than double the size of my previous knobs. Originally not sure if these would go with my decor, as soon as I installed them I knew they were perfect for my space! The white in the knobs matched both my nightstands and the other furniture in my room, while the shades of blue and the brass edge matched various accessories throughout my bedroom. Perfecto!
It’s amazing how something as simple as changing out a few knobs can make such a difference. If you’re short on funds but want to update a piece of furniture, doing something similar in your own space is not only a way to save money while updating the look of a piece of furniture, but also a fun way to get creative. Whether you choose something plain and simple or completely over the top, you can easily update the look of your furniture with a simple replacement of knobs.
The River’s Island
Looking down the river I spotted a small island within the rolling waves. The grass, tall trees, and fallen logs make it look like an island escape in the city. Want to create your own island escape? Adding a similar photo to a wall would be a great base for an updated summer look. Mix it with tropical prints, wicker accents, and nautical items to create your own personal getaway. Short on funds? Repurposing items you already own is a great way to stretch your budget and bring out your creative streak. With a great photo and stylish accessories, you can easily update your space for the summer season.
Various Phases of Cherry Blossom Buds
Although most of the flowers from the cherry tree in my previous post have fallen, there are other trees that are just starting to bloom. Once such example is the Yoshino Cherry blossoms pictured above. I was able to capture a branch that slowed the cycle from bud to flower in full bloom. The white blossoms, pink buds, green leaves, and blue sky background could be the perfect color palette to update your space for spring. The nature-inspired colors blend well together, and also allow for a pop of color via an accessory or large photo used as a focal point on your wall. The best part? You can easily customize this by going out and photographing your favorite flowering tree, then using that as a base for your decor. Remember, the only thing between you and a new spring look is the scope of your imagination!
Classic Blue and White: Inspiration from Nature
As I’ve stated in previous posts, you can find lots of inspiration from nature and what’s around you. An example is the classic blue and white color palette. The inspiration? The sky! This color combination provides just the right amount of brightness, while also being able to blend into one’s current decor. In addition, there are so many different shades of blue, that you’re sure to find one that’s a perfect fit for your space. You can go all out and have an entire room in blue and white, or you can add just a few accessories. Take a picture of the sky and hang it prominently on a wall, create a cluster of blue and white vases, add throw pillows, or add a new rug to a room. No matter how much blue and white you decide to use, you’re sure to create a bright and airy feel in your space!
A Bend in the Tracks
On one of my daily walks, I made my way down a hill and saw these railroad tracks curving around a bend. I like how the tracks are flanked on both sides by a fence, in addition to the trees that seem to lean inwards. Though you may not think so, there are so many possibilities with a photo like this! It would look great displayed in a living room or den, or could be the inspiration for a new decorating theme that incorporates earth tones mixed with metal and wood-based accessories. Taking photos of places near your home or work is a great way to find new ways to inspire yourself and decorate your space. Whether displaying your works of photography, or using them as a base for new decor, there’s a whole world out there waiting to inspire you!
A Snowy Beginning to 2016
Welcome to my first post of 2016! Hope you all had a Merry Christmas, and are ready for a new year. We recently got our first snow, which gave me a great inspiration for today’s post. As seen on the right, I was able to snap a picture of our snow-covered Butterfly Bush. The snow on the end of the branches makes it appear that the bush is sprouting white flowers. Photos featuring winter scenery are a great way to bring a cool color palette into your home. Add accessories in silver or gray, and you’ve instantly updated your space! Stay tuned to for more great posts and videos in 2016!
The Gilded Ceiling
This is a picture of the ceiling in the lobby of a nearby building. I love the gilded, art deco design! There are a myriad of colors and patterns on this ceiling, but the combination works beautifully. There is silver, gold, and bronze used throughout the patterns. Most people would think that all these colors and patterns wouldn’t work. However, this ceiling proves that it can. Not ready to try the same look on your ceiling? Start small by mixing throw pillows, accessories, or art that has different colors and patterns. No matter how bold you decide to go, you’ll have a unique look that’s all you!
Symmetrical Spaces
The picture above is an example of a symmetrical space. While the space pictured is large, it can serve as a great inspiration for your own home. Adding symmetry is a great way to add a classic design element to your space. One place to start is in a bedroom. Center your bed on a wall and add matching tables or night stands on either side of the bed. You can also adorn each table with a lamp, or put up a line of pictures above the bed (I’d suggest an even number of pictures), to create this look. Not looking to re-do an entire room? Start small by using a shelf or dresser. You can use books, accessories, matching picture frames, or a variety of other items to create a symmetrical look. Remember, even the largest of designs can be scaled down to fit any space. All you need is a bit of inspiration and imagination to create a great look!
Bell-Shaped Flowers to Ring in Spring
There’s a parking lot near where I work that is partially bordered by these purple, bell-shaped flowers. I love the pop of purple flowers and green grass against the dull concrete. This gives me a great inspiration for updating a space! Often times we realize our space has slowly turned into a dull color palette over time. While it might seem daunting to give it an update, you can do a lot with a little! Just adding a few pops of color to a space can make all the difference. You can start small with accessories like a vase, candles, or throw pillows. Everyone has to start somewhere, so no matter where you start you can update your space with minimal effort!
Inspiration In A Photo 