School's In Session!

Looking to spruce up your office now that the kids are back to school? Here are some great tips!

The first thing you will need is a good, functional desk. Check out places like Ikea, they have beautiful (and functional) desk units from $140! Check out the Galant series which has tons of flexible options:

Next, make sure you have adequate storage for all office necessities, such as fax machines, paper supplies, pens, pencils, etc. Purchase several different types of storage cabinets, to ensure you’ll be able to keep everything tidy. Filing cabinets are always essential to keep paperwork organized and in its proper place. We really like the multiple options of the Effectiv series from Ikea to keep all those necessities neat and out of sight:
Here are some great tips on "dressing up" your office space:

• Use a minimal amount of accessories to keep the space looking crisp and clean.
• Opt for great artwork on the walls instead of lots of accessory items to clutter up your work surfaces.
• Paint the walls a great color. If you’re afraid of all-over color, paint an accent wall to brighten up the space.
• And last, but not least, make sure you have comfy chairs for the whole family

Finds under $50...Dorm Decor

Back to school time! Here are some fun finds that will add some spice to that bland dorm room.

Storage is always a huge issue in a tiny dorm room. These colorful fabric bins can hold everything - from books, to bathroom necessities, to clothes.

Looking for some purposeful art? How fun are these cork boards from Crate & Barrel!

Bedding is the simplest way to add pattern and color to your room. Loving this bold print from Target - and the pieces are under $25 each!
Tired of that old, worn out commercial carpet? Dress it up with a fun area rug!

Finds Under $50...Red, White & Blue!

The 4th of July is almost here! Why not add some patriotic colors to your home?

Loving this red bowl from Chiasso. Perfect to display that fresh summer fruit!

Nothing more classic than a crisp, white pillow. This great ribbon texture pillow cover will look great in any decor.

Great conversation piece! Awesome "unfinished" clock from MoMA.
These turquoise candle sticks are a fresh take on traditional blue. Only $9.99 each from Z Gallerie.

Do’s and Don’ts of Design…Lofty Spaces

DO Use double-duty furniture.

A small chest or dresser can serve as both a nightstand and can store extra bedding.

DON'T Overcrowd your small space.

Less is more when it comes to accessories!

DO Make use of your vertical space.

Wall mounted shelving can provide excellent storage for books, while still freeing up valuable floor space.

DON'T Forget art!

Visually interesting walls will keep the eye moving all around the room, and make you forget your lack of space!

Finds Under $50...Spice it up

Who knew there were so many cool and modern options for salt & pepper shakers?!?

What's sweeter than a hug? Loving this design from the MoMA store.

These beautiful stainless shakers might just get mistaken for a great centerpiece!

Need a helping hand at the dinner table?
Sweet little birdies to adorn your summer table.

Finds under $50...Handcrafted and Fabulous

I'm a huge Etsy fan. For those of you out there who don't know what Etsy is...let me explain. It's a fabulous place to find everything vintage, handmade, and unique. Here are a few of my recent finds - and there's plenty more where these came from!

I'm in love with this handpainted lamp shade! A steal at only $52. This will fit into any decor.

This shelf is a great recycing idea for you crafty types out there. Use it in the Kitchen for spices or the Bathroom for pretty bottles.

For all you music lovers out there, this is definitely in the "fun" category for design. Hang this record bowl on your wall for a unique conversation starter, or use it for chips in a pinch at your next get together. Unbeatable at only $5.99 each!

How have I survived all these years without a tea cozy? And an owl one at that? Handmade and fun for only $38.

Traditional Living Room Decorating

Great read on how to decorate with "Traditional" style:

http://www.shelterpop.com/2011/01/12/living-room-decorating-ideas-traditional/?a_dgi=aolshare_email

Do's and Don'ts of Design...Kid Friendly Spaces

If you have small children, you might feel as though you need to compromise good design for good function. The good news is, you don't! Here are some great tips on how to get the best of both worlds in your spaces.

DO Use slipcovers on your furniture pieces.
Easily washable, and interchangable if you feel the need for a quick re-do.

DON'T Think table lamps are your only option for lighting.
Use sconces, pendants, and ceiling fixtures to illuminate the space. Added bonus - no dangerous cords lying around for the little one to discover!

DO Think double duty when it comes to furniture.
Substitute a storage ottoman for your coffee table (added safefy bonus here too by eliminating hard corners) and consider lining a wall with storage benches for additional spots to hide away all of those toys.

DON'T Forget about a fun paint treatment!
Adding black to a room gives an instant air of sophistication. Why not paint the lower half (or third) of your walls with chalkboard paint? Use a great chair rail to separate the two colors and you have a fabulous, fun room everyone can enjoy!

Do’s and Don’ts of Design…Dream Dining Rooms

The Holidays are fast approaching. Here we share some great tips for creating the perfect Dining Room!

DO Purchase a table with multiple leaf options if space is limited.

Most manufactures will have a round table that will expand with 1-3 leaves (and the leaves usually store inside the table now!).

DON'T Think all of your chairs need to match.

If you don't have the room to keep your table expanded all year round, consider purchasing inexpensive wood chairs that you can store out of sight until the Holidays. To make you chairs "match" during those large family dinners, try placing matching cloth slipcovers over all of them.

DO Consider bringing in your patio set to use as the "kiddie" table.

You can cover this with a festive table cloth - and your family will be none the wiser!

DON'T Purchase all new accessories.

Take a gander around your home for some great options. Think "outside the room" - look for accessories pieces that you can add to your Dining Room in places like the Kitchen, Living Room or even the Bedroom! The art over your bed might really dress up your buffet. Or the glass canisters in the Kitchen might make a fabulous table centerpiece when filled with fresh autumn leaves, small gourds, or festive glass beads.

Finds Under $50...National Caramel Month!

Add some sweetness to your home with these great finds!

What better to bring the feeling of Autumn into your home than some wonderful smelling candles? Try these yummy Caramel Pumpkin Swirl pillars from Pier 1!

Loving this contemporary caramel pillow from Chiasso. Very sophisticated, and only $48.

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, everyone has dinnerware on their minds…why not spruce up your Holiday table with this beautiful, casual setting from Mikasa. Only $29.99 for a 4-piece place setting. And remember - you can always "dress" up your casual china with a shimmery metallic charger.

Toast to the Holidays with this gorgeous stemware from Noritake. A steal at only $9.99 each.

Do’s and Don’ts of Design…It's not easy being green

Simple, inexpensive tips for keeping it green around your home!

DO Use reusable bags.

Those "convenient" plastic bags will be sitting in the landfills longer than we can ever imagine!

DON'T Think you need to but everything new in order to be "trendy".

Many furniture manufacturers are hopping on the green wagon and using recycled materials in their construction. Items such as coffee tables made from recycled doors have become extremely trendy - and they are beautifull to boot!

DO Use sustainable materials for your flooring.

Bamboo wood floors are not only beautiful, but also sustainable. They suit any decor. Another great option is cork - which is both attractive, and easy on the feet!

DON'T Ever think doing something small won't help.

If everyone did just one thing to be eco-conscious, we'll be set for years!

Finds Under $50...Pink is in!

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Show your support by donning pink accents all around your home!





Beautiful Z Gallerie pink jeweled frame to place pictures of your precious loved ones.



Love this ruffle pillow from Pier 1. Neutral enough to go with any décor, only $19.88



Also from Pier 1, these simple Pink Cherry Blossoms would look amazing on your dining table in a clear, contemporary glass vase.




This pillow from World Market is absolutely stunning. It would make a great accent in your bedroom or living room, for only $24.99

Finds Under $50...National Kitchen & Bath Month

And on to bathrooms next...

What an awesome idea! We all have that hairdryer that can never find a good home in the bathroom. And this brushed steel caddy is beautiful to boot!

Need something soft under your feet for those chilly mornings? Chenille is perfect. Can't beat the price either, only $12.99 for this crisp white throw rug.

Great accessories are a must! I'm loving these jade jars from World Market!

Classic bathroom accessory - monogrammed towels. Now made affordable by Bed, Bath & Beyond. Only $19.99!

This bath caddy from Chiasso is perfect when you need a little "me" time. Only $44 - wine not included :)

Every "spa" bath needs a crisp, white cotton shower curtain. Love this waffle weave from Target.

Do’s and Don’ts of Design…Designing for your Pets

Most every household has at least one pet - whether it be a dog, cat, or even a guinea pig. I would venture to say that most of us treat them just like family. And just like we would baby-proof our home for our children, we should pet-proof our home for our furry family members :)

DO Choose hard surfaces for your flooring (tile, wood, laminate, etc.)

Much easier to keep control of pet hair issues with hard surfaces versus carpet!

DON'T Purchase a light area rug if you have a pet with dark hair, and vice versa.

Although none of us like the thought of pet hair on our floor, it's fairly unavoidable. Black pet hair on a white rug is never inviting...

DO Opt for leather and/or slipcovers.

Leather is easily wiped, slipcovers are perfect for throwing in the wash on your pet's "bad" days.

DON'T Purchase a pet bed that doesn't match your decor!

Pet bed can be found in many almost "designer" fabrics that will match any decor. Why not make your pet's bed blend in so he can feel stylish as well? :)

Finds Under $50...National Kitchen & Bath Month

Let's start with Kitchens first...

What a fun way to add color! Added bonus, if you decide you don't like red next month - easy enough to change it out for another color :) KitchenAid toaster only $49.99 from Target.

Simple, glass canisters are the perfect way to infuse some color in your Kitchen without great expense. Fill with anything from colorful cereals to flowers to fruits. Only $19.99 for a set of 4 from Target!

Maybe doing the dishes can be fun...or at least a little more cheerful with these fun flower brushes.

Fruit as sculpture? We say yes! What a great way to add color and style to your counter. This fruit stack from Chiasso is under $30!

Do’s and Don’ts of Design…Kitchen and Bath Remodeling

October is National Kitchen and Bath Month. Now is the perfect time to think about those changes you've been wanting to make - especially since selling a home for most is not an option right now.

DO Determine your budget FIRST.
It's pointless to get started on a project without knowing how much you can, or are willing, to spend. Your budget will help determine your ultimate choices on everything from the interior designer, to contractor, to the finishes in your new space.

DON'T Think you need to stick with the first bid you receive.
Try to get a least 2 or 3 bids so you know you're getting a fair price.

DO Hire an Interior Designer.
We're a little biased on this one :) But our ultimate job is to coordinate everything for you - this includes all of the finishes for your Kitchen or Bath, as well as overseeing the work being performed. And we also take the pressure off of you :)

DON'T Go "high end" on everything necessarily.
There are ways to cut costs on certain elements, such as using manufactured stone instead of granite, that will give you an awesome look without breaking the bank.

Finds Under $50...Cool Fall Trends

Silhouette art might be a fun project to do with your kids! All you need is some contrasting construction paper, an inexpensive, simple black frame - and your children's cooperation while you trace their profile :)

If you can't get their cooperation, this is a great ready-made silhouette art option from West Elm.

Gray and white is everywhere this season. Why should the bathroom be left out? Fabulous branch shower curtain from Target for only $39.

Love this modern take on a botanical print from West Elm.

Floor cushions are great for affordable, casual extra seating. They can be easily stored away or scattered around the room for added color and pattern. Love these cushions from World Market, only $39 each.

Finds under $50...National Peach Month!

Peaches for you....peaches for me...

Lovely retro inspired shower curtain from Bed Bath & Beyond, only $39.99.

Also from Bed, Bath & Beyond - Tommy Bahama placemats & napkins. Nothing says summer like Tommy Bahama!

Peach scented soap...Yum!

Love these florals from Pier 1. Only $19.99 each!

8 Ways to become your Own Best Decorator

Great tips from Oprah.com on becoming YOUR own designer!

http://bit.ly/bq5tqg

Do’s and Don’ts of Design…Small Spaces

DO Find furniture pieces that do "double duty".

Check out places like Ikea that cater to smaller spaces. Use a storage ottoman as your coffee table. A bookshelf makes a great room divider and adds tons of storage space.

DON'T Think you need to use only light colors.

We've all heard that dark colors can make a room appear smaller. Wrong! Deep, rich colors add warmth and depth to a space. To make a space seem larger, paint a dark tone on the farthest wall.

DO Use proper lighting.

Overhead lighting from chandeliers always makes a room feel bigger and brighter. Choose crystal for even more illumination.

DON'T Over-stuff with furniture...or use overstuffed furniture.

Think clean and simple when it comes to decorating small spaces. Using items that are too large will only make the space feel smaller.