HOW TO: Make an Abstract Painting for Home Decor

I have a love-hate relationship with this kind of project.  Artists train for years and years to make quality, meaningful art, so I always hated those HGTV projects where they would make fake "art" with the homeowners to complement the decor.  That being said, I think as with everything that balance is key.  Invest in good art and buy vintage when you can, but sometimes you just don't have enough money for that and if you know what kind of art your space needs, sometimes you gotta go ahead and make it yourself!

Home Improvement Around My House: A Window Seat!

B and I had a blast doing the Parade of Homes this weekend.  The Parade is made up of open houses around the county, showcased by local builders and renovators.  It's a great time and an opportunity to get some awesome inspiration for home improvement.  One of the (absolutely gorgeous, expensive luxury) homes had a beautiful built-in window seat.  I've wanted a window seat since I was about 8 years old... and I'm 30 now!  While I was gushing, B said very matter-of-factly, "You know I could build you one."  Um yes.  So now, of course, I'm going nuts planning it all out.

This is about what we're thinking:

image: Tar Paper Crane

Finding Gems in Chain Stores: Decorating with Pottery Barn Kids and Land of Nod // Land of Nod edition

So, I don't have children and I'm not planning on it.  I'm also not one of those women who loves to ooh and ahh over cute kid stuff.  However, every time we're at the mall, I can't help going into Pottery Barn Kids.  They have some really good stuff, that I could easily see working in an adult space.  It's not always possible to have the time/money/resources to find unique pieces, so it can be super helpful to know where to find good stuff at the big box and chain stores.

Emily Henderson is a great inspiration for using cute big box kids' stuff in not so cutesy ways.  She uses Pottery Barn Kids as a good resource for affordable draperies.  She also did a really great room with the similar Land of Nod. Granted, this room is for nine year old, but most of the stuff I want for myself.

Style by Emily Henderson