Old School Postal Box

5-24-15_IMG_1395 copyWhen I saw this antique postal box in a building, I thought it was the coolest thing ever! While it’s no longer in use, the postal box has been kept in perfect condition over the years. Vintage items like this are great conversation pieces, and also makes you think about the craftsmanship we use to put into everyday items. Looking to add some vintage charm of your own? There are several ways you can get the vintage postal look for your own space! One option is to take a photo of a vintage mail box and hang it on your wall. You’ll find these types of mail boxes in historic or old government buildings. Interested in something more authentic and 3-D? There are several companies that sell antique and replica vintage postal boxes that you can purchase and install in your home (or even outside). No matter which way you choose to show off your vintage tastes, you’ll have a conversation piece that will entertain your guests for years to come!

Once again, I want to give a big thanks to everyone who read my 200th post! Keep frequenting my blog for more great ideas and inspiration!

Pink Kwanzans

Pink magnolia treeWhile I enjoy cherry blossoms, they only bloom for about two weeks and then they’re gone. Kwanzan cherry trees, however, keep blooming long after other cherry blossoms have fallen. Pictured above is a shot of the blooming cherry trees where I work. It’s wonderful to still be able to see pretty pink blossoms swaying in the wind! Additionally, it demonstrates the great combination of pink and green. You could use a similar photo as a focal point on a wall, or decorate your space with pink and green accessories. No matter what you choose, always remember that nature can provided the greatest inspiration for any space!

Note: I previously misclassified these trees as Magnolias; they are in fact Kwanzan cherry trees. The title of this post has been changed from Pink Magnolias to Pink Kwanzans.

Ornate Bronze Wall Sconces

Ornate bronze wall sconce_sideOrnate bronze wall sconce_frontI was strolling through my local law library when I looked up and saw these beautiful, intricate wall sconces. The sconces were a unique piece of lighting that stood out in the otherwise plain library. When a space features a unique piece of artistry or architecture, a little bit goes a long way. Need to dress up your plain space? Try a unique lamp, oddly shaped mirror, or an ornate piece of furniture. One piece can make a bold statement, so be sure to choose something that not only stands out beautifully, but is also uniquely you!

Red and Gold Ceiling Medallions

Ceiling Medallions_Red and GoldAs tends to happen in life, I was walking through a building I had visited many times before when I decided to look up at the ceiling. What did I see? A large arch featuring red and gold ceiling medallions. The colors are very regal and medallions themselves are a classic piece of architecture, so I thought they’d be the perfect addition to my blog. Not only do the colors pop, but it would be a great addition to any space. There are two types of ways you can get this look. One, you can buy a few ceiling medallions from your local home improvement store, paint them using the desired colors, and affix them to your wall, ceiling, or archway. The second, more practical and economic way, is to use a similar photo. You can take a similar picture at most historic or old government buildings. Once you have the picture, print off several copies, frame them, and hang on your chosen wall in whatever pattern you desire. This will create a great focal point that will draw people into the room. No matter what choice you decide on, you’ll be able to add a touch of classic elegance to any space!

The Dining Room Window at Christmas

Dining room window Christmas 2014Hello, and hope you all had a Merry Christmas! For today’s post, I’ll be sharing how I decorated the dining room window. As seen above, I decided to go with a snowflake theme! I used pink, blue, green, and red snowflakes for the window and wall. Additionally, I added two silver flowers and a gold ornament to tie it to the theme I used on the Christmas tree. The items I used can be found at big box and dollar stores-a great and economical way to dress up any window! Though Christmas is over, you can still do something similar for New Year’s. And what’s easier than dressing up a window? No matter what 2015-themed decorations you decide to use, you’ll be sure to ring in the new year in style!

Thanksgiving Decor: Part 1

Thanksgiving is one of the holidays where I like to decorate the house! In this post I’ll show you how I decorated a wall in my living room. I like to decorate differently every year and was trying to decide what to do with the accent wall in the living room. I had several packages of faux maple leaves, and decided that this year I’d create a tree! As seen below, the accent wall was plain except for a large mirror.

Living room wall_before

After about $20 worth of supplies (cardboard paper, faux maple leaves, and painter’s tape), I now have two beautiful trees! The final result is shown below. This was an inexpensive project that was completed in one day. Since the entire project is affixed to the wall with painter’s tape (I fold it over so it’s like double-sided tape), it’s easy to remove and won’t damage your walls.

Living room wall_after

So what are you waiting for? There’s still time to update your holiday decor, so go create an art piece that not only embodies the holiday, but also displays your creative genius!

The White Flower

The white flowerWhile walking around the lake I noticed this white flower that was attached to a vine growing on a fence. I’m not sure what species of flower it is, but I thought it would make a good photo. Sometimes it’s the simplest of images that are the best. I love how the white flower stands out against the green leaves. It’s a simple image that packs a punch! This photo would look great blown up to poster size and used as a focal point on a wall. Remember, a focal point can be a simple, elegant image that grabs your attention and soothes your mind.

Wall of Venetian Art

The Venetian WallThis picture was taken at the center section of the museum bridge. This installation is called the Venetian Wall, and is made up of 109 different glass sculptures. Despite the size of this art piece, it is possible to replicate this in a small space. Choose a bookshelf that fits your space (many are on sale this time of year), and fill part or all of it with glass pieces. These can be any style you want and can be purchased at big box, craft, or second-hand stores. Display a wide variety of colors and shapes to get the feel of the wall in my photo. Not only will your wall create a conversation piece, but will also let you show off beautiful art!

The Wall of Spheres

Wall of spheresI saw this wall of different colored spheres at the museum and thought it looked great! While I wouldn’t recommend doing this to an entire wall in your own home, there are ways you can integrate this look into your space. One option is to take a book shelf (or any shelves) and add colorful glass floats as decoration. These can be bought online, at museum gift shops, or stores along your nearest coast. Need a more economical option? You can also use colored glass globes that are available at most craft stores. A second option is to find a wall similar to the one pictured and put a photo of it on your wall. There are even some online companies that will enlarge it to mural-size. Whichever option you choose, you can have a wall that stands out and will give your space a colorful, modern look.