Bringing Architectural Elements Indoors

Often times we find ourselves living in a place that doesn’t match our architectural style. While costly renovations are one solution, it’s not one that most of us can afford. The solution? Add a photo! No matter if you prefer Victorian, Mediterranean, Gothic, Midcentury, Neo-Classical, or Tutor style, a picture is a perfect way to bring that look inside. You can take a photo of a building that features designs you like, have it enlarged, and use it as a focal point in your main living area. The picture can be of just the building or, as pictured on the right, a scene that includes the building and it’s surroundings. I’d recommend the former, since by zooming out you can capture additional elements that add style to your space (note the modern architecture of the building and classic brick of the walkway). No matter what style is your favorite, you’ll be sure to impress by bringing unique architecture into your space.

A Minimal, Yet Grand, Tablescape

This year I decided to pare down my normally ornate tablescape. Instead, I decided to use a handful of elegant pieces to decorate my table for Thanksgiving. They include a crystal bowl and vase, along with two glass pumpkins. The vase is filled with a collection of multi-colored flowers and foliage. The bowl is filled to the brim with faux leaves, and is topped with several small pumpkins. The look is finished off with two pumpkins in different shapes, patterns, and stem colors. As in previous years, these decorations consist of items I already own. Trying out a minimalist look is not only an easy way to try something new, but also allows your favorite pieces to stand out instead of blending in with your decor. No matter how you decorate for the holidays, you can easily transform your tablescape into a minimalist beauty!

The Fiery Tulip

As I was walking into work one morning, I spotted a few tulips that had somehow been planted with the daffodils pictured in my previous post. As I got closer, I noticed that the fiery red flowers had streaks of yellow on each petal and the mix of colors at its center. Despite the contrast, all of the colors went together beautifully. A similar color scheme can easily be added to your space in a myriad of different ways. You could easily add a colorful vase or picture frame to a table or shelf, update a lampshade, put a bright slipcover over your furniture, or even paint an accent wall. No matter what colors you choose, you can never go wrong with inspiration from nature.

A Christmas Tablescape

Christmas tablescape 2016Happy Christmas Eve! Above is my tablescape for this year’s dining room table. It features a variety of items in different textures. Out of everything on the table, only three items were bought this year; everything else we already owned. I prefer to use things we already own as much as possible not only because it’s more economical, but also the items have more meaning. In addition, the crystal bowl behind the town scene is filled with brightly colored bulbs and bows, which brings together both traditional and modern holiday colors. Wishing you all a festive and fun Christmas Eve!

Decorating with Street Signs: Part 6

Classic stop signIn my final post in this series, I’ll be featuring a stop sign. Of all the signs in my series, this one is the most classic! This sign would go well in any room, and blends well with any decor. The red will provide a pop of color to your space, while the white border creates a framing-effect on the sign. There are several ways to go about displaying a stop sign in your home. You could create a collage featuring multiple signs grouped together either on a wall or framed on a table. Alternatively, you could blow up a photo of a stop sign and make it the focal point on a wall. I hope you’ve enjoyed my series decorating with street signs. Stay tuned for more tips and ideas for decorating your space!

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!

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!

The Glowing Clouds Beyond the Trees

Setting sun beyond treesOne evening, my Mom called me over to the window to view the glowing clouds during a sunset. I love the various shades of orange, red, purple, and blue! The trees appear to frame the photo, creating a unique shot. If you have a favorite time of day when you think the sky looks its best, take a photo and display it prominently in your home. This will not only allow you to show off your photography skills, but you’ll also have a great addition to your wall. Displaying a photo on your wall is a great way to bring new life into an old space. No matter if it’s sunrise, sunset, or high noon, you’ll find the perfect time to photograph the perfect sky!

Framing Windows with Wreaths

Red and green Christmas wreaths_dining roomLast year after Christmas my Mom spotted a pile of wreaths on clearance at a big box store. I wasn’t sure I wanted them, but my mom insisted “You’ll find something to do with them.” And you know what? I did! While last year I used traditional wreaths, this year I opted for the shiny red and green ones my Mom found. I couldn’t decide which ones to use, so I used both (there’s a set on each side of the window)! I then added bows to give them extra dimension. Want to do something similar? Try combining decorations to create something unique and memorable. It’ll give you a chance to show off your great taste and unique style!

Dressing Up Your Office Door

Office door decor_Christmas 2015Around this time of year we’re so busy we often forget to decorate a place we spend the majority of our day: the office! This year, I decided to inject a bit of holiday spirit by adding red bows to my door frame. I also added two large, gold snowflakes to my door and a red bow on the handle. If you don’t have an office with a door, you can dress up your cubicle with holiday decor or small ornaments. If you work in an open office, try adding a small Christmas tree or tape snowflakes around the edge of your desk. Remember, it only takes a little bit of holiday spirit to bring a smile to someone’s face!