What Does it Need?//

Happy Thursday designers! I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for my extended weekend!

As I’m finishing up each room in our place I’m realizing that you always have those questions of, what else does the room need? Do you have those moments? You can’t put your finger on it, but it just needs something else? Well I’m here to help! Let me take you through some of the things I look for when I’m thinking my room needs something.

 

1. Texture

I’m big on texture. I love fluffy pillows and blankets, wood-grained vases, and table runners. It’s amazing how a piece of cloth, fur, or something earthy can bring a lot to a room instantly.

2. Pattern

For the most part, I like neutral pallets, but I honestly do believe there’s such thing as too neutral. If you’re sticking with tan and creams, make sure you find neutral based decor with a pattern. The pattern adds depth and makes the color scheme seem to have more emphasis. I prefer to do a neutral pallet with some extra bold patterns either thrown into the room with a rug, a piece of wall art, or even painting the wall with a design.

3. Color

Now, since I do more neutrals to keep things light, and airy, I try to find one item to really add a pop to the room. I’m a HUGE lover of rugs. Top place I find them, Urban Outfitters Online. They have the BEST colorful, pattern-filled rugs. Another wonderful place is Anthropologie, but UO is usually more in my price range.  You can also do this with a statement piece of art, bold pillows on a neutral couch or bedspread, or again, paint an accent wall with your complimentary color.

4. Personalize

Last, add something personal. I love basing my rooms off something personal each time. My living room is just tons of arrows. I love arrows, the significance of their story, moving forward into greatness inspires me. Our bedroom, I have pieces of my grandmothers in jewelry, and mirrors with gold accents to go with the navy, and gold theme. Our guest room is very personal. It’s our travel room. We have a map marked with the places we’ve been together, wood statues of animals from trips and pictures to keep the memories alive. It doesn’t matter what it is, but a home ALWAYS feels put together when each room feels personal.

 

Hope this helps those of you stuck with the details!

XOXO

Shelf Styling//

It’s been TOO LONG since I blogged! I sincerely had no time amongst the moving and starting a new job, but BONUS, now I have my own designs to show you as well!

Since I’m still piecing rooms together I don’t want to do a full room yet, so I’ve decided to do my favorite, for the most part, finished pieces among our apartment for now.

Today: How to style a shelving unit

 

Here are a few tips and tricks I try to stick to:

1. Stay Simple

As you can see, I’m not overwhelming my shelves. I use enough pieces to consider it useful, but not enough that it seems like I didn’t have anywhere else to put things. Over clutter is the death of a good shelving unit. 

2. Use Different Shapes and Levels

Visually, if everything is the same level, or same shape, it’d be a rather boring unit. Notice the way I’ve set things up. I have books and records on multiple shelves, but I’ve placed them horizontally, vertically, in the middle of the shelf, or to the side. I’ve also added different items to accentuate height or fill a tiny open space from vases, to candles, to the picture frame.

     3. Personalize it

I love fresh flowers so I’ve added that in two different places. We also recieved this sweet engraved box from our photographer with our engagement pictures, I love that our initials are on it, and it sits perfectly on that shelf. I also LOVE candles. Ask my fiance, or really anyone that knows me, I don’t have a room without a candle.

Find the things you love and fill your home with it! Don’t be afraid to step outside the lines a little either. Our living room is very eclectic with boho accents and gallery walls. This industrial shelf ties it all together!

 

Processed with VSCOcam with f2 preset

Processed with VSCOcam with f2 preset

 

To all those in Indiana, stay warm and safe tonight!

Xoxo

Tips for an Inviting Entryway//

Entry ways are the first thing people experience when entering your home, whether that be a house or apartment, you want to make it feel inviting with their first step.

Now with homes, you more than likely will have more to work with, but apartment entry ways can be crowded and tricky. Overall, the goal is to make it feel clean and open for everyone. 

Here are my ideas: 

1. Keep it clean

Obviously you’re living in the house day in and day out, so we have a tendency to just throw our shoes off so we can get relaxed, but for the days you know you’ll have visitors make sure you have storage and organization to make your entry space not over crowded with shoes and junk from the every day. They don’t want to be stepping over your mess as they say hello! 

 

2. Make it Inviting

People don’t want to walk into your home’s entryway with a view of cold walls and dullness. You want the entry way to feel warm, like it’s almost saying hello for you(I know cheesy). It’s the first statement of your home though! Make it say hello, literally with these cute signs!

 

3. Add your personality and style

Your entryway is the first piece of you people get to experience when they come into your home. If you have a specific style you’re going for, start it there. You can easily make something functional and trendy all at the same time. Don’t be afraid to be creative and embrace you. Here are my favorites to replicate currently….

Processed with VSCOcam with a6 preset

 

I’d love to see some of your entryways- email me for ideas if you’d like!

XOXO

 

 

Drab to Fab//

Since it’s cold, gloomy, and let’s be honest somewhat depressing around the country, I wanted to add a colorful spark to everyone’s day.

Here is my how to on spicing up your living spaces with the lousy weather outside your window….

 

1. Accent Pillows

It’s so easy to just keep the same pillows because we get used their comfort, but let’s be honest, they probably look pretty ratty. Spruce up your living room with some bright pillow accents that will bring color back into your life and texture to your decor!

 

 

Target, Threshold Fur Pillows

 

Anthropologie Pom Pillow

 

2. Rugs

Adding a new rug can really spruce up a room. Most rugs get worn so quickly, so think about investing in something a bit more pricey that’ll last through the traffic. Here are some beautiful rugs that would add so much to any space depending on your style.

Anthropologie Kaleidoscopic Bloom Rug

Wayfair, Sherpa Ivory Rug

 

3. Paint your Utensils

An easy, fun DIY project to add color to your kitchen is to paint your wooden spoons and utensils! Just tape them off, paint them, let dry and you’ve got some much needed extra color while you’re cooking!

 

4. New Curtains

Curtains can add so much to a room! You can pick a beautiful sheer for the sun to peek in through or a bright accent shade to really add to your decor! The choice is yours, but here are some of my current favorites!

Anthropologie Pleated, Mint Curtain

Nate Berkus, Fringed Herringbone Curtains

 

5. Fresh Flowers

This is the simplest option because you can go get fresh flowers even at your local grocery store! Fresh flowers don’t only add color, but they bring literal life into your home during the winter.

Here are the winter flowers currently in season:

1. Dahlias

2. Snap Dragons

3. Roses

4. Tulips

5. Ranunculus

6. Gerber Daisies

 

Have a great weekend loves!

xoxo

 

 

 

For the Bookworms//

TGIT all you Shonda Rhimes lovers, and tomorrow’s Friday! I can’t believe this week is almost done! I’ve been slackin’ y’all, but school, work, life, etc. gets in the way sometimes. We all know how it is!

As the cold comes rolling in, I find myself hunkered down more and more. I love being snuggled up with a book I can’t keep down, the problem is, I also don’t like getting rid of my books. I might be a book hoarder. I’m not very generous when it comes to sharing either. Usually borrowers never return, and there are several books to near to my heart that I want to re-read! The challenge for me is figuring out how to store these so they’re not in piles or in large bulky shelving units.

These are some of the creative ways I’ve seen used for book storage. Check them out! 

1. Stairwell Storage

http://mylistoflists.com/10-creative-bookshelves/

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/01/13/incredible-bookcases-photos_n_4588105.html?ncid=edlinkusaolp00000009

2. Book Nooks

3. Wrap Around Shelving

• This is a great idea for basements or an office for book storage! 

https://apartmentsilike.wordpress.com/2011/05/04/book-lovers-unique-shelf-ideas-for-your-apartment/

4. Libraries

• This option is obviously a luxury more than a practical, but if you have an extra room and you love books that much, go for it girl! This could even be done in your home office, but be careful not to make it too comfy if work needs to be done!

http://blog.hgtv.com/design/2014/02/14/fall-in-love-with-hgtvs-cutest-home-libraries/?soc=pinterest

5 Tips for a Minimalist, Organized Home//

Hey Y’all! Happy Friday! 

As the “minimalist” look becomes more popular, the more I love it. I love the feeling of less is more. We don’t need that much stuff people, seriously, throw stuff out! 

So, here are my top 5 tips and ideas on how to be organized with a minimalist style. I also just love the look that some of these can add to the home! Now, let’s hope we can all keep it this organized! 

1. Open closets

I personally love this because it makes you keep your clothes organized. It also helps you really see what you never wear so you can de-clutter and get rid of that shizzzz. 

 

2. Towel Racks = Shoe Racks

This pairs somewhat with your closet, but how many of us have a million shoes all jumbled together at the bottom of our closet? I know it’s not just me! I bet if I organized those two things would happen. One, I’d find shoes I never knew I had, and two I’d realize the shoes that never left that floor. Suggestion- grab some trendy towel racks or curtain rods and hang those up! 

 

3. Open Shelving

I know, I know, again with the open shelving! I swear guys it’s going to keep you organized! Who’s just going to throw things every where if that mess can’t be concealed? Whether it’s books and office supplies, dishes, or towels open shelving not only organizes you, but also helps easily decorate! 

4. Clear your counters and tables

The kitchen can tend to get a little over-cluttered if we’re not careful.  Items you don’t use daily, put in your cabinets and hide them away. The cleaner the counters, the more organized, and the more room for cooking! When it comes to end tables and coffee tables, the less the better. A coffee table book, a small plant, or a simple tray with a candle or two is all you really need to display.

 

5. Boxes and Baskets

I think the toughest way to live as a minimalist is when you have children. Those toys, crayons, and lego’s get just about everywhere. And shoving them in corners or clunky toy chests just seems to clutter a room. I know for my fiance and me, we have more movies than one couple should own, and stacking them or placing them on a shelf is just going to be a giant mess. We will be neatly organizing those in lovely, clean boxes. 

Cheers to the weekend! 

The Ultimate Bedroom Oasis//

Happy Monday! 

This past weekend Chris and I spent some time in Brown County, and after a night in a hotel bed, boy oh boy, was I glad to see my bed again. My wonderful, squishy, warm bed. So, in honor of one of my favorite places in the world, today is bedroom day! 

Here are 5 ideas on how to make your bedroom a cozy haven:

1.Bedside rugs

•  There is nothing worse than getting out of bed and placing your feet on the cold floor. Avoid this with a rug! Obviously, you know my go to are those beautiful, white sheepskin rugs, but pick what works for you. Find a basic patterned rug with a pop of your room color, or a heavily patterned, colorful rug for in a more neutral room.

Here are some examples and a tip on placement around the bed:

 

2. Pillows, pillows, pillows

• Obviously, I’m a sucker for pillows. I recommend them for everything! Not only can they add to the decor and color, but in this case they add to the cozy. In the bedroom try to pick softer, fluffy pillows you can lay and sink into. They’re also great to prop up when you’re reading!

 

3. DIY Canopy

• Canopy’s are more formally used for kid’s bedding, but who says you can’t have an adult canopy?! I love feeling enveloped in luxury when I’m laying in bed reading or catching up on my shows. Feeling snuggled in by your bedding, pillows, and some privacy curtains can really make it feel like an enchanted oasis.

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/ramping-up-the-romance-in-your-bedroom-168067

4. Lamps & Lighting

• When you’re relaxing in bed reading the paper, a good mystery novel, or watching some mindless television, you want to feel completely relaxed. Your overhead, main lighting is not going to do this for you. Add some lamps on your bedside nightstand or some lighting within your canopy. This brings the lights down and sets a comfortable, romantic mood. 

 

http://www.stylemepretty.com/living/2015/03/16/25-nightstands-worthy-of-sleeping-next-to/

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=28946671&color=000#/!/

5. Bedding

• The ultimate comforter makes up the perfect bed. The more plush the better, in my opinion, and you want the sheets to feel worn in and soft. Also a tip for ladies, it’s said that silk pillow cases are better for hair maintenance and those unmanageable frizzy manes!

http://www.craneandcanopy.com/?utm_source=pinterest&utm_medium=pins&utm_campaign=MontBeigeSutterA1&pp=0

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/blissliving-home-harper-navy-cotton-sateen-duvet-cover-shams-online-only/3647727?cm_ven=pinterest&cm_cat=acc_wsp&cm_pla=at_home&cm_ite=FT28748&crlt.pid=camp.enIQJy6XReIt

Curb Appeal: Your Front Door//

TGIF Blog lovers!! 

I am so ready for this weekend! Chris and I will be spending time in Brown County in Southern Indiana, doing some hiking among the beautiful leaves and enjoying some much needed time away. 

I had some struggles coming up with creative juices on what I wanted to blog today. It’s been a long week at work! So I’m sticking with something simple.

My favorite front doors!

Most people stick with more of a matchy matchy color, or neutrals for their front door. Why not go for something eye popping? Having a bold door draws people’s eyes to your house from the street. This is especially great if your house is on the market. We want your house to stand out in the best ways!

Here are three tips for a bold door: 

1. Bold color
2. Double doors
3. Embellishments

For the ultimate curb appeal, check out these front doors….

(links are below)

 

http://www.entirelyeventfulday.com/2013/05/front-door-colors.html#.ViD0Q-xVhBc

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/03/27/colors-for-front-door_n_5036498.html?ncid=edlinkushpmg00000055

http://www.oprah.com/createyourspace/The-Prettiest-Front-Doors-Front-Door-Ideas/8

5 Ideas for the Perfect Statement Wall//

Tip of the day: MAKE A STATEMENT WALL

You all know that I’ve been all about the neutrals, but you’ve got to add a little pizzazz now and then to your home. There are so many ways you can add BOLD color and patterns to your walls to make a statement!

1. Stripes

There are so many ways you can use paint for a statement wall. You can do one solid wall with bold color, or add a wall with a pop of pattern. My favorite painted statement wall is a bold stripe with the neutral color.

http://eastcoastcreativeblog.com/2015/06/12-creative-wall-art-ideas-creating-a-statement-wall.html

http://www.architectureartdesigns.com/20-elegant-and-classy-striped-walls/

2. Plank Walls

There is a rising trend to use planks for everything! DIY plank tables, chairs, floors, and now walls. I love the rustic appeal of the wood wall and you can do so much with it. White wash it for a classic shabby chic, or leave the wood tones for a more rustic approach. The options are endless!

http://www.lovelyetc.com/2014/02/bold-diy-plank-wall/#comment-17762

3. Exposed Brick

Exposed brick is popular look, more likely to be found in city apartments. It’s perfect for a more industrialized design scheme. The great thing about brick is you can paint it and distress it as well. I love the look of a white brick wall, but having some of that authentic color from natural brick also draws a visitors eyes in to the room.

http://www.architectureartdesigns.com/60-elegant-modern-and-classy-interiors-with-brick-walls-exposed/

http://style-files.com/2013/10/11/10-beautiful-exposed-brick-walls/?utm_source=feedly

4. Gallery Walls

This is a more easy DIY project to make a bold statement. Gallery walls are perfect because you don’t just have to use pictures. You can use so many different elements to pull someone in to your personal “art gallery”. Paintings, initials, frames, metal wall art, mirrors, and plants; the list could go on!

http://www.thecraftedsparrow.com/2015/09/create-meaningful-decor-with-shutterfly.html

http://www.drivenbydecor.com/2014/10/gallery-wall-how-to-design-tips.html

5. Wallpaper

I know what you’re saying, WALLPAPER? Isn’t that the thing of our grandparents era? Well yes, that tacky wall paper of the yesteryear is, but wall paper has evolved! Check out these bright, bold, colorful options to add just a touch of color accent! 

 

https://www.etsy.com/listing/179196641/self-adhesive-herringbone-pattern?utm_source=Pinterest&utm_medium=PageTools&utm_campaign=Share

http://www.refinery29.com/best-wallpaper?utm_source=pinterest.com&utm_medium=pin&crlt.pid=camp.hBSFFA1Nzu3g#slide-9

How to Make a Room Cozy//

It’s currently 55 degrees and I’m wrapped up in a scarf and sweater at work. The cool, fall weather is officially upon us here in the  Midwest. I personally love it. Cool weather means leggings tucked into my wool socks, over-sized sweatshirts, and snuggling up in my favorite blankets.

If you’re like me, after a days work, a solid workout, and chores around the house, you just want to sit down, settle in and relax. My favorite way to do this is under a mountain of blankets, a sweet treat in hand and my pup on my lap.

But what does the room look like? 

Here are my tips on making your room winter ready, and cozy approved:

1. Candles and Lanterns

There is nothing better than dimmed lighting and the flicker of candles. Set some Yankee candles in a lantern or two and let the seasonal scents and flame warm up your living space.

 

2. Pillows

I LOVE pillows. I will forever be able to justify spending 30-40 dollars on a pillow. My fiance does not understand, nor support this justification. We just agree to disagree on style needs sometimes ha! Pillows instantly make a bed or couch extra cozy. You can’t tell me those couches below don’t look like heaven!

http://carlaaston.com/designed/sectional-sofa-placement

http://www.buzzfeed.com/peggy/30-impossibly-cozy-pieces-of-furniture-you-could-die-happy-i?sub=2975161_2518118#.xfQej5oa9

3. Fireplaces 

Now, this is tricky because not everyone has a fireplace, or you have one but it’s not usable. The great thing is, if you have no fireplace you can make your own! If yours isn’t working, no biggie, you have options with candles or decorative logs. Check these ideas out!

   

http://www.brit.co/fireplace-decor/?utm_source=pinterest.com

http://hellonatural.co/15-ideas-non-working-fireplace/

4. Lamps

The last element for that cozy feel is superb accent lighting. My favorite to use are lamps either on couch end tables or maybe a nightstand or some twinkling lights hanging in the room. Lamps can come in all creative shapes and sizes.  The options are endless!

   

Alright everyone, I hope those give you some good ideas to get that perfect, cozy room ready for the hibernating months! Xx