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Tuesday, January 24

Down in the Decorating Dumps? 3 Ways to Brighten the Mood!


For most of the world, winter has arrived in full force. Here in the Northeast, we are experiencing cloudy, sun-less days that are short, wet, and dreary. If you're like me, you may also be experiencing some dreariness indoors, too!

Here a 3 ways to get your spaces out of the "decorating dumps":

1. Get New Shades! Take a look at your lamp shades. If they're a bit too dusty or dingy to be revived, consider purchasing some new ones. I have two lamps in my living room that have dark, leather-look shades and I'm excited to swap them out for white drum shades. It will brighten the room considerably and won't break the bank!
Source: dear lillie via Pinterest
2. Brighten Up! Winter is a great time to accomplish indoor chores. One great way to brighten your space is to freshen up your painted walls, doors, and trim. Whether its just a quick coat of white over white or a completely new color, paint is a cost effective and easy way to lighten and brighten your home.

Source: stylemepretty.com via Pinterest

3. Smell the Flowers! Especially during the winter months, fresh flowers do wonders for a room. Flowers add beautiful, bright color and lovely fragrance to any space. So bring a little Spring into your home with a lovely bouquet, just because.

Sunday, January 22

Reviving the Conversation Pit

Bell-bottoms, feathers, fringe, bright wallpaper are some 70s trends that have reappeared on the style scene in recent years. And now I'm considering reviving yet another forgotten fad: the Conversation Pit.

Source: interiordesign.net
Source: klad.com
Source: openbuildings.com
Source: bry-backmanor.org

I have a small/den office area that is currently being used as storage for excess inventory for my shop and gallery. I was originally going to make this a boring office space, but I was inspired by a quick flash of a conversation pit room in the opening credits of the TV show, "Selling L.A." (Don't blink or you'll miss it!) The idea of a cozy, comfy retreat with built-in couches around the entire perimeter covered in cushions and pillows.... *love*!

*MyEH Tip: Take Control! Don't let the room dictate its use ("office" "den" "family room"). Instead, allow your lifestyle - or your desired lifestyle - to influence decor and function. For example, my "office" space could have been set up as a couple of desks and some shelving, but because I'm on my laptop 99% of the time I'm working, I'm designing a fun, retro, lounge area as an alternative. Think outside the box!

Haven't told the hubby yet. There are a few "major construction" elements that need to occur in that space first before I can start to work my design magic, like closing off an "extra" doorway to the master bathroom, and maybe even closing off an exterior doorway to the deck (there are already two others).

Here's a BEFORE image (total disarray :( )


AFTER pictures - if I can convince Orion ;) - will be posted in the future.

What do you think? Is the Conversation Pit worthy of reviving in today's spaces?

Friday, January 20

Cuckoo for Cardigans

While some may be cuckoo for cocoa-puffs, I am a little nutty when it comes to cardigans. I recently took a tally, and let's just say I have more than 20 but less than 100. :)

Source: Pinterest; imgfave.com
Source: Pinterest: nevernotknitting.blogspot.com
Source: Pinterest; chictopia.com
Source: Pinterest; hm.com
Source: Pinterest; griffithsrated.blogspot.com
 
I decided to explore Pinterest (*love*) for some ideas on how to incorporate my love of the cozy, knitted, soft, warm wardrobe staple into my home decorating. I found these wonderful and creative ways to style my home while giving homage to my love (aka "addiction") to cardigans. Which is your favorite? (I think I love the ottoman best!)

*MyEH Tip: If you go through separation anxiety when it comes time to sort and simplify your things, consider re-purposing special items, like a favorite old sweater re-purposed as a pillow or tea cozy! But make sure it will be something practical and useful, otherwise donating is the best option.

Have a cozy Friday!

Source: frenchbydesign.blogspot.com

Source: Pinterest; countryliving.com
Source: Pinterest; lunareeceart.blogspot.com
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest
Source: Pinterest; thedesignfiles.net
Source: Pinterest; theberry.com
Source: Pinterest; designsponge.com