Christmas Table: Create With What You Have!

Christmas is almost here!  Can you believe it?  Christmas is truly my most favorite time of the year.  In our home, we have Christmas music or a movie in the background at all times.  Yes, we are Christmas crazy!  Generally, it's mainly my daughter and me who are that way, but this year Brett has joined in our madness!  I'll share more on a little Christmas light decorating Brett has done. 

In preparing décor for any holiday or special occasion, I'm a firm believer that your first resource is what you already have.  I find my best designs come from this.  Now, I will say that I have stockpiled a number of really cool Christmas décor this year that I've been dying to use.  I bought some sparkling iced eucalyptus that I was excited to pull out this year.  I wasn't sure if I would use it on my tree on in an arrangement.  In the end, I used it in an arrangement on my dining room table. 

 
I had picked up these 2 rusty urns earlier in the year as well so I pulled them out.  I thought they'd make a great statement together on my farmhouse table. 

 
 I decided that I would use all décor that had that frosty winter look so I pulled out some pinecones and sprayed snow on them.  Then I had some red berries that I threw in for just a slight punch of color.  To give it that "snowy-look" I tore open an old pillow and stole the polyester filling out of it!  If I can repurpose, I will and it stretches my dollar for those items that really help make my table.  I also ran out to my birch tree in the front yard and grabbed a few twiggy limbs off it to give my arrangment a little more height.  

 
Next, I had bought some miniature mercury glass ornaments at the end of the year last year that I wasn't sure what I would use them for.  I found the perfect use for them to scatter across my burlap runner.  

 
I also had these 2 Christmas Santa's.  I had never found the right place for them at Christmas, but this year, I decided to put them back to back in the middle of my urns.  The one item I did buy was a white brush tree.  I began looking at my Santa's as setting the scene of them being in a magical winter wonderland.  

 
I really think that my Santa's pulled the whole look together!  Okay, so........what is that powdery stuff all over my runner?  Snow, you say?  How could it be?  Well, let me tell you about a little product that I found!  You will love it as much as my guest have!!!!!   
 
 
It is called, "Snow to Go."  You follow the directions on the package by adding water to it.  Then you can sprinkle it on your surface.  Be careful where you use it because it is wet so it could damage finer surfaces.  So where can it be found?  Let me tell you about one of the best kept secrets and I hope you will visit them!
  
 
You can find Snow to Go at The Cuckoo's Nest, at the corner of Old Highway 280 and Highway 55 in Westover, Alabama.  This was the former home of my grandparents, Luther and Wilma Hatcher.  I love going there because I love all the fun things in the store but it also is one of the ways I let my grandparents' memory live on.  This year, the snow at my table will be my reminder of them and my daddy.
 
 
The end result is beautiful!  I'm loving my table and I wish that every decorating project  I did brought me as much joy.  What I want you to gain from this project is to take a look around at what you already have.  Take a look in your attic, think about what maybe a relative has that they aren't using, go to the Thrift store, look outside and find a few unique things that you may already have or have seen out shopping.  Start pulling the look together and let it evolve!  You'll be amazed at what you can come up with yourself! 
 
I hope each and every one of you have a blessed holiday season!  I hope to share a few more Christmas project with you.  As always, remember.......
 
Great Design Takes Time!
 
Lisa
 
 
 
 
 
 

Antiquing Furniture: A Tale of a Little Girl's Bedroom

Have I told you how much I love antiquing furniture?  Well, I really, really, really do!  I continue to be in awe of the transformation that can occur. 
 
I had the pleasure of working with a mother and daughter on a bedroom suite recently.  The family had just purchased a new home and had begun the decorating process.  The bedroom suite was furniture that was from several rooms in their old home.  It included her parent's wedding bed which was a dark teak wood, a pair of pickled oak bookcases from an office and then 2 French Provencial chests that were in the little girl's room from the old house.  In the end, we united them and made them work by antiquing them with Amy Howard Paint. 
 
As you see the bed was beautiful but when I saw it I KNEW that it was going to be even more beautiful.  By antiquing them in white the true beauty of the carvings showed! 
 
 
In the end, the lingerie chests boasts the French ornamentation.   
 
 
I used Dust of Ages to bring out the carvings and gave it a look as if it was a sculpted artwork.
 
 
It looked like a true antique piece in the end. 
 
 
Even the these chest of drawers got a little dusting too! 
 
 
The pickled oak bookcases looked like custom built-ins in the end. 
 
 
I had a lot of fun transforming this mix matched furniture into a beautiful set for a special princess!  Antiquing furniture is a great way to do just that. 
 
Until next time, don't forget that Great Design Takes Time!
 
 
Lisa
 

Eclectic Design: When the Eye Sees Art

What is Eclectic Design?  Eclectic Design is a medley of various styles over various periods of time.  It forms when items are chosen simply because the eye likes them and sees them as art. 

That is definitely true with one of my most recent clients.  They enjoy going to art shows, auctions, consignment stores, and hole in the wall stores.   From these ventures emerge true diamonds they find in the rough. 

When we first met, it was obvious they knew what they loved by the pieces they already had.  They simply just needed help pulling their look together so that their discoveries worked in harmony and not against each other.  The artwork was what stood out to me the most and became the focal point of the project.  I started out by selecting paint that complimented and set the artwork off. 

Their artwork goes from line drawings of architectural buildings........



to lithographs of villages........


to watercolors of a small town harvest.....


to a watercolor of a barn.....

 
 to live pictures of outer space......
 


 
and to an antique print updated with a modern painting of a robot stomping through an ancient city.
 

Oh!  And how could I forget the Alabama Football artwork that boasts a number of Daniel Moore's signed prints?



The paint selection became the backdrop for the artwork.  My client wanted colors that were dark and rich.  Chocolates, grays, navy and fresh green were chosen as backdrops for their collection.  By just painting a house they had purchased, it became a home that showcased their love for art.   After the paintwork was completed, the pictures were grouped and hung so that they would compliment each other as well as furniture and accessories in the room.  It was amazing the transformation that took place!

Until next time, remember that Great Design Takes Time!

Lisa 




How to Choose a Coffee Table

Like many of you, I remember the days when a coffee table's only purpose was a resting place for drinks, books and television remotes.  They were more about function than design and rather boring. 

Mid-Century Drop Leaf Lane Coffee Table
Source:  https://www.etsy.com/listing/153098932/mid-century-drop-leaf-lane-coffee-table?ref=related-4

There was a period of time that they got big........Trend Spotted: Round Coffee Tables! More living room decorating ideas: http://www.bhg.com/rooms/living-room/family/living-room-decorating-ideas/?socsrc=bhgpin071713roundcoffeetable=13
Source:  http://www.bhg.com/rooms/living-room/family/living-room-decorating-ideas/?socsrc=bhgpin071713roundcoffeetable&page=13&crlt.pid=camp.05v5yewkgToB

and bigger.............................................
huge coffee tables // black velvet chairs
Source:  Pinterest.com


and even BIGGER!!!
a huge coffee table is a fantastic idea. can't tell if this is all one piece, or several that could be moved apart. loving the orange glass pendants too
Source:  http://www.pinterest.com/pin/35677022017931979/


Then there was a period of time we decided they took up too much space and many homes did without them.

Now they are a fashion statement to any room.  We don't just place a coffee table in front of the sofa anymore.  Instead, we use them to anchor our conversational area together.  What should you consider in choosing the right coffee table for your space?

First, let's discuss shape.  There are various shapes of coffee tables now.  For conversation areas that are wide, a rectangular coffee table may be the best fit.  Smaller spaces find circular or square tables to work better. 

Second, you should think about size.  You want to make sure that there is at least 2 feet of walking space around your coffee table.  This helps give you a beginning guideline as to the size of table you need.  Some conversation areas may be rather large and have seating for 10 or more people, while others are small and only seat 3 people. 

Last, we will look at style.  That is what it is all about now!  You will find coffee tables that are fancy, rustic, modern, industrial and from various world influences.  The style is what makes them unique.https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgda9f9VQhWHNN8e3Xn8-42WQazm4gZkFNN_3atiwdgx3rgIBiZVoo9Waruw2xwaz4d39Lfm0s0e9agysinBJqrsFOy0xNGjsklneDoE330Dkwi9WHzY4qNMa7ERFqNUSCMhZ6Ek3rhxejh/s1600/beach_industrial-baskets-coffee-table-metal-fireplace-0712-dempster12-xl.jpg
When choosing my coffee table, I took all of these factors in consideration.  I first decided on the shape I needed.  For my space, I decided that I wanted a round or square coffee table.  Then I measured my space and that I needed no more than a 30" table.  Lastly, I took a great deal of time deciding what style I wanted and what complimented the existing furniture.  I had seen this one from Restoration Hardware and fallen in love it. 
Wallpaper (“Mayanne”/White #5139): Phillip Jeffries, Coffee tables (“Distressed Ionic Capital Coffee Table”): Restoration Hardware,  Area rug (Calvin Klein Loom Select): Calvin Klein Rugs, calvinkleinrugs.com.  Art over mantel:  arteriorshome.com.  Sconces; chandelier: Circa Lighting,  Tables flanking mantel (“Sutton Criss-Cross Side Table”); head sculpture (The Split); marble urns: Noir,noirfurniturela.com.
Source:  http://www.pinterest.com/pin/235735361718954247/

Just so you know, this one cost around $2K, which is a bit much.  Then, I began seeing another one almost identical to it on the Internet.  I was hesitant to buy it because I hadn't actually seen it.  One day, I went into one of my favorite stores, Greystone Antiques and saw it.  It was priced less than 1/2 of the Restoration Hardware one and it was every bit as beautiful.  I finally decided that it was the look and style I wanted for my living room. 


I love the architectural look of the ionic column.  The hand carving is beautiful.  It has chippie paint and a pine stained top.  It's both elegant yet rustic which is the style I want in my home.  Can you tell the difference in it and the Restoration Hardware one? 
 
 
In case you are interested in purchasing the ionic capital coffee table, I encourage you to visit Greystone Antiques showroom in Birmingham, Alabama.  The last time I checked, they still had one.  Let them know that I sent you. 

Until next time, remember:  Great Design Takes Time! 


Lisa














Antiquing Cabinets

Cabinetry  can be one of a home's greatest architectural features.  Often homeowners are dissatisfied with the cabinets in their home.  They are either not the right color, outdated or a wood finish that isn't appealing to them.  To replace cabinets is extremely expensive, not to mention the mess it makes.  Believe it or not, to have them painted can be almost as expensive!

One of the reasons, I began using Amy Howard at Home Paint is that you can use it to paint cabinetry with no stripping or sanding!  That takes half the work and mess out of the project. 

Recently, one of my clients was talking to me about a custom butler's pantry cabinet they had in their dining room.  It was painted white.
 

The cabinets were needing refreshing and the client really wanted to do something other than just giving them a fresh coat of white.


We talked about antiquing the cabinets to accent them more.  First, I painted them with Amy Howard's Linen paint. 

 

Then I used Amy Howard's antique wax and dark wax to give them an antiqued look. 
 

The most beautiful part of the piece was the molding but it was hardly noticed when it was painted white.  Now it stands out because it has depth!


Nothing is more rewarding to me than to stand back and see the difference a change like this can make to a room.  The butler's pantry really makes a statement in this room!


I hope you enjoyed seeing how antiquing cabinets can change a room.  I can't wait to show you later how they look accessorized.

Remember, Great Design Takes Time!


Lisa

Magnetic Chalkboard: The Story Behind It

In a previous post, I showed you how I had painted an old armoire door that I had.  The story behind the door is that it was a part of a Turn of the Century European collapsible armoire.  Basically, it was held together with pegs that you could remove easily to take the piece down to a base, sides, doors and header to easily transport overseas or across country.  It was not a sturdy piece and my husband had plans to put it together permanently and add more support. 

One day, I was working away at my desk when my then 4 year old daughter came into the room.  I heard a door swing open from the armoire and then the other.  I realized what had was happening as I heard the ancient piece cry out with an, "Eeeeee--errrrrrrrrrrr----CRASH!"  The armoire with its heavy plated mirrored doors came tumbling down, leaving sawdust, splinters, glass and a zillion pieces behind.  Luckily, Adelyn was fine.  She was scared to death that she was in trouble but besides me having a gash on the head, we survived!

I purchased the armoire with money I received for graduation from family so I wanted to re- purpose at least some piece of it.  I had a door without the glass and decided that I wanted to chalk paint it and turn it into a chalkboard.  I made my own chalk paint, painted it, sealed it with wax and then scuffed it up. 



My neighbor, Joann Holloway, creates magnetic chalkboards.  You will find her at shows all over the southeast or you can purchase direct from her website: 

http://www.downmulberrylane.com/categories/Magnetic-Chalk--Boards/



I had always wanted to have one of her works in my home so I took my door down to her to see if she could turn it into a magnetic chalkboard. She did and I as quite pleased with how it turned out. 



I decided to use it in my dining room so that I could write messages, the menu or sayings for our guest to see.  I can also use it to hang with magnets Adelyn's artwork on it if I choose. 




I knew I kept the key to it and found it just the other day.  I think it really finishes off the piece perfectly.  I'm excited to not only have one of her piece of works but also to be able to re-purpose yet again another piece. 

Until next time remember, Great Design Takes Time!



Lisa




Exterior Makeover: Adding French Flaire


When we purchased our home in 2008, the exterior was something I wanted to change right away.  Reality set in though, that we had lots of work to do on the inside.  Recently, we were finally able to make the changes that I had dreamed of but beforehand we made a few minor changes that pacified my desires.

This is how our home looked when we first purchased the home in 2008.  The bushes were overgrown and the house was in need of being repainted.  I did not like the red shutters and door at all.  They really clashed with the brick but I knew that new paint would be in the works eventually and I could give it a new look. 
   
There was lots to do to the interior of the house, not to mention it needed a new roof and windows.  We decided to go ahead and do a minor face lift by painting the shutters and trimming the shrubs.  The chocolate paint really warmed up the home.  It's amazing how a little TLC can go a long way!
 
 
 Last year, we were FINALLY ready to paint the exterior.  I chose a medium toned tan for all the trim work.  Then a very dark color for the shutters and doors.  Do you remember how it was when you got your first car and you had to keep going outside to look at it?  Well, we kept having to go outside to look at our house because we loved how it turned out and we had a hard time visualizing the transformation in our heads! 
 
We pulled out the overgrown bushes and replaced them with smaller bushes.  Landscaping is a great way to update a house!
 
Since I wanted to go with more of a European look, I decided to change out the light fixtures on the front of the house.  I liked the look of the old ones but they weren't to scale and because the placement of the sockets were high, I really needed some that dropped down, more like the carriage style.
 
The Man of My Dreams, my husband, Brett, built me some farm shutters which really transformed the look of the house!
 
The antiqued copper faux hinges really finished the shutters off and gave them a unique finish.   
 
In preparing for our exterior makeover, I got a number of quotes around town.  The best quote and the one I had most confidence in was The Painting Company so that is who we used. They really did a great job and were easy to work with.  We have recommended them a number of times since.  If you are interested, let them know that I recommended them! 

I was "pleased as peaches" with the exterior makeover we did.  It's amazing how paint, lighting, and landscaping can transform your home and bring it up to date.  Looking at this home now, would you believe it is 20 years old?  There is not a thing I would change about this project.
Spring is here and I can't wait to add more plants to my flowerbeds.  When I do, I will be sure to share with you!
Remember, Great Design Takes Time!
 
Lisa

Also, a big thanks to Kim, with Savy Southern Style for hosting the linky party this week.  Check her out at:

Guest Bedroom Glimpse: Amy Howard at Home Furniture Makeover

One of my decorating goals for this year is to makeover my guest bedroom.  This is a room that often gets overlooked!  Doesn't it? 

When we moved into our home, we did not have any furniture for our guest bedroom.  Shortly afterwards, my husband's mother offered his grandmother's bedroom suite to us.  This was not a bedroom suite I especially liked but you know me, the wheels started turning and I knew that one day I'd give it a makeover!  I researched various paints to makeover my furniture and chose Amy Howard at Home Paint.  As you see, it was a fairly dated 70's bedroom suite.

 
Here is the mirror that was attached to the dresser.
  

The dresser and chest of drawers had a laminate top, which was a concern in choosing a paint with durable coverage.  I read about Amy Howard at Home paint and found that laminate was one of the materials it does well with covering!  :)
 

  Another perdicament I had was the headboard's lattice had been damaged. 

 

I began by painting the furniture lightly with 2 coats of Amy Howard at Home One Step Paint in Luxe Grey.  Then brushed on the light wax product, buffed and followed it with the Dust of Ages product by Amy Howard.  I finished it with Amy Howard's Dark Wax.  I loved how the makeover turned out!  


One of the reasons I went with Amy Howard at Home Paint was because I felt that I could capture more of a manufacturer paint finish in the end.  Whatever I chose, I wanted to be sure that it stayed in style for years to come.  The dresser had a mirror but for now I've decided not to use it. I'm hoping to find a more up to date mirror that is more transitional that will breath even more life into the suite. 


I was amazed how the headboard turned out after painting.  It really brought out the curved details and Barley Twist posts.  For the insert I had to get created.  That's my passion!  The lattice really dated the bedroom suite so it was no love lost that I couldn't find any to replace it.  I considered just inserting a solid board or a wood filigree cut out. 


In the end, I decided to go a different route by replacing the lattice with caning. I wet the caning and then stapled it to the back. Then I went over the caning with Amy Howard's Dark Wax to give it more of an antiqued finish.  It turned out looking fabulous!  Don't you think?


There's still lots to do in my guest room makeover.  My next step will be to find draperies and bedding.  Then I will choose a paint color.  I've been looking but nothing has called my name yet.  That's okay because as you know, Great Design Takes Time! 

Lisa