Decorating with Street Signs: Part 1

Yield sign_traffic circleEvery so often I come across someone who likes to decorate a room using road signs. While you may want to create a similar look, the only way to legally obtain road signs is by purchasing them at an antique mall. However, I know from personal experience, that it can quite difficult to find these old signs. The solution? Use photos of street signs instead! My first post in this series features a sign commonly used in traffic circles. This type of sign would give a great retro feel to a kitchen, stairwell, or other areas where people tend to congregate. In addition, the foliage in the background makes the sign pop even more. It’s the perfect combination of neutrals and a pop of color all in one shot. Stay tuned for more ideas in this series of decorating with street signs!

Spring has Sprung: Part 3

Pink flower close-up_bushThis final post in my series features a close-up of the same type of flower in my previous two posts. The combination of light and shadow, along with a close-up of the flower’s internal workings, makes this a great photo for any space. You can take a similar picture by getting your lens as close to the middle of your favorite flower as possible. Once you’ve taken that perfect shot, I’d suggest enlarging the photo and using it as a focal point on a living or dining room wall. The flower, no matter the shade, will bring a bit of color into any room. In addition, a large photo is one of the easiest and most economical way to add new life to a stale room. I hope you’ve enjoyed this three-series post featuring bright, beautiful flowers, and that I’ve inspired you to brighten up your decor.

Spring has Sprung: Part 2

Yellow flowers_bushOn my second post in this series, I’ll be concentrating on a group of yellow flowers. While the flowers themselves are the same variety as the ones in my previous post, their color variation provides a striking difference. While both colors can be considered warm, the yellow variety are slightly different in appearance. There’s less of a ombre effect, and some segments of the petals have a dotted pattern. Besides the contrast of light and shadow in this picture, the leafy green background makes the flowers pop. This is a great example of how you can find multiple shades in the same color family to use in your decor. Not sure what shades to use? Try using a combination of similar photos grouped together on a wall, or use them throughout several rooms. Stay tuned for more posts in this series, coming soon!

Spring has Sprung: Part 1

Orange flowers_bushIt’s that time of year when it starts to get sunny and the flowers start to bloom: Spring! I’m starting off this series of posts by showcasing a few orange flowers. There aren’t many flowers in nature that are orange, so when I saw these I just had to snap a picture! I love how each flower has a slightly different shade, including the ombre effect that occurs as you go from the middle of the flower to the outer petals. Being able to capture the uniqueness of nature is one of the best parts of this time of year. No matter what color scheme you have, you can find something in nature that will let you welcome Spring into your space!

Picture a Pattern: Part 5

Blue swirl_tissue boxIn previous posts I’ve featured patterns from boxes, clothing, and pieces of furniture. Another great object to find patterns? Tissue boxes! It’s probably the last thing you’d think of (I know I did!), but these little squares can provide great patterns and inspiration. On the right is a whimsical blue and white pattern that would look great framed and put in any space. The various shades of blue give this pattern a greater flexibility in matching with colors already in your decorating theme. In addition, the shades of white give it an extra pop that makes the pattern stand out. Tissue boxes come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, and many brands offer seasonal color palates that will give you a myriad of options throughout the year. Remember, by thinking outside the box, you can find surprising new ways to be inspired!

Picture a Pattern: Part 2

Christmas box_winter patternAs seen on the right, this second post highlights a pattern that is perfect for winter! The pattern is actually a section of a Christmas present box that features multiple colors and snowflakes. The snowflakes make it perfect for winter, and the pops of color give the pattern added depth. A similar photo would look great in a living room or bedroom. The range of colors in the pattern-red, green, blue, and white-gives it greater flexibility, as it allows the picture to blend in with just about any decor. No matter what colors you choose, you can find a great pattern that will bring seasonal fun into your space!

Picture a Pattern: Part 1

Pink paisley ottomanHello! In this new series of posts, I’ll be featuring a number of patterns that are great for decorating. I’ll start by showcasing a pink paisley pattern (right) from an ottoman located in a bedroom. While the ottoman itself brings a great pop of color, I wanted another way to tie it into the overall decor. My solution? Frame a picture of the pattern! This allows me to better tie in the pattern to the rest of my decor. You can do the same thing with your own ottoman, or use a pattern from a favorite rug, comforter, or pillow. Stay tuned for more ideas on framing patterns to add a unique touch to your space!

A Bend in the Tracks

Around the bend_railroad tracksOn 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!

Water Beyond the Branches

Bay through the treesDuring this time of year we often ignore the trees that have lost their leaves. However, if you take the time to examine them, you’ll be surprised at what you can find. You can often see nests or, as seen above, a water view. The majority of the year, all I can see are leaves as I look out my office window. However, while I lost a bit of greenery, I’ve gained a (temporary) water view! Nature, like decorating, can bring unexpected surprises throughout the seasons. By looking at your space in a new perspective, you can easily find treasures that are right in front of you.