The design projects I do don't always make their way on my blog. I could use some help in the "picture taking" department. I actually forgot my camera with this one and used my phone. That should pretty much sum it up... haha!
Your entry is a really good place to start if you are wondering where to begin to decorate your home. No, you don't hang out there a ton(or ever), you most likely don't use it when entertaining. However, its the first impression for anyone that enters. It truly sets the tone. How do you want your guest to feel when they come in your house. What kind of first impression do you want to give?
This home is "newer" than most I am used to working with. It was built about 20 years ago. Homes like these don't need walls knocked down to make more space or additions to make the kitchen larger. Homes like these need new light fixtures, updated floors and new paint. Mostly its just cosmetic decor. The biggest challenge with a space like this is that it opens up to at least 4 different rooms. Making sure the rooms all flow is much more difficult than with an older home that is not so open.
This home is "newer" than most I am used to working with. It was built about 20 years ago. Homes like these don't need walls knocked down to make more space or additions to make the kitchen larger. Homes like these need new light fixtures, updated floors and new paint. Mostly its just cosmetic decor. The biggest challenge with a space like this is that it opens up to at least 4 different rooms. Making sure the rooms all flow is much more difficult than with an older home that is not so open.
The color on the wall stayed the same. It is a pale yellow that adds some color to the space. I decided to use texture in the space and keep most everything neutral to help it flow with the rest of the house.
Lets look up! The previous fixture was not pretty. Lots of shiny brass and that is all I will say. The new fixture needed to be a statement and large enough to fill the 2 story space. I am lucky to live in Cincinnati where Ballard Designs is headquartered. I found this one at the outlet in West Chester, Ohio. It was outlet price plus another 30% off. We purchased the bronze color in the large size. Here is the link if you are interested Ballard Designs Orb Chandelier
To add more interest to the fixture - we added a very large ceiling medallion. It was purchased from www.architecturaldepot.com . I painted it and antiqued it so it would stand out and not blend into the ceiling.
Looking down! This rug was purchased from Shades Of Light. The bold, geometric pattern adds some modern to the space. I love using indoor/outdoor rugs. There are so many really pretty options now. They are less expensive and are great for high traffic areas. Take them outside and hose them off when they need cleaned. Here is the link Indoor/Outdoor rug in Graphite
This is one of my favorite parts of the space. These are watercolor paintings of the 2 homes that my client and her husband have lived in since they have been married. I loved the idea but wasn't sure how we could make it happen without it being way over budget. Well, Etsy pulled thru again!! Found this semi-retired artist on Esty Artworm . You send him a photograph of your home or past home. He does these amazing watercolor painting and sends it back to you matted and ready for an 11x14 frame. His price per painting was $99.
The table is antique and was in another part of the house. Lots of texture was used in this space. I found this really cool, gray hammered lamp with a burlap shade, a basket to put some throw pillows in, a wooden tray layered under a book, some moss balls in a wire cage and the leather trunk underneath. All of these accessories were found at Homegoods.
To fill a empty corner we found a old chair at a consignment shop for $20. Filled a large urn with preserved eucalyptus and a wire basket with some colorful books. All these accessories were purchased at Homegood too.
Be creative and don't be afraid to fill your space with the things you love!
Keri
