One Kid's Room: Two Looks

This weekend, I stumbled onto the blog called, And George, which is authored by Christy Ford.  The mother (Jan Roden) and daughter (Christy Ford) duo run a fantastic store called, And George, in Charlottesville, Virginia.  I need to make a point to visit.

In one of the posts, Christy talks about her children flip flopping rooms more times than her husband would like to count.  Ever since her home was published in Southern Living's November 2010 issue (see here), I have been a long time admirer of her children's rooms.  One of my favorites is seen here...

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So adorable.  The soothing pastels, florals and small prints - what's not to love?  Well, I guess at one point her son, Henry, moved into this room and Christy did a fantastic job decorating the space for a boy.

Christy Ford for And George

It looks as if the same paint color (Tranquility by BM) was kept which makes re-decorating so much easier.  I love how both rooms are filled with such personal style that they are magically kid friendly.  Neither room is over designed.  I love it.  And, can I just say how much my son would love those bunk beds?

Vintage Wooden Chests (with some styling thrown in)

One of the many things I have been on a lookout for is a good sized vintage wooden chest that would serve as a nice piece in an entryway or in a living or dining room.  I figure this won't be too difficult to find and I've been gathering inspirational pictures so when I see the right one I can nab it.

In the image above, I like the flat front drawer panels and the two toned wood.  It doesn't hurt that this one is paired with a gilded louis philippe mirror (another thing I want to get, btw).  

Again, I like the flat front drawer panels and the knobby knobs.  It's rather simple with no observable carvings or details.  I like it.  A rather simple wooden chest that won't mind if the styling steals the show! :) 

Another chest with flat front drawer panels.  I would replace the drawer pulls.  

Perfect - flat front drawer panels with substantial wooden knobs.  Just how I like it!  

This chest has more detailing than the previous ones and gives off a different kind of air - a bit more refined.  I posted it because I love the marble top.  The styling is incredible.  

Have you noticed the contrast between dark and light with most of the styling in the pictures I posted?  A dark chest and a light (either glass or white) table lamp.  Hmmm, I need to make a mental note.

All images via pinterest

I found this at bdantiques which has the look I like.  This is a more of a dresser than a chest (with the two smaller top drawers), but nevertheless I like it.   I hope I am lucky when we're back stateside!  

Chic DIY Art

One of the things I want to ensure our new home has is layers and layers of art.  I have noticed that every home I love is filled with beautiful art.  And, as many of you know, art can be terribly expensive.

So, today I thought I'd leave you with some very chic DIY projects for affordable art.  I found all of these via pinterest.  I seriously can't wait to try them these when we are back home.

Here, they cut out circles from a poster board, spray painted it gold, layered it on fiberboard in a fish-scale pattern and framed it.  So beautiful and graphic!  Such a great idea if you are in need of a large piece of artwork and don't want to spend a lot of money.  

Ribba frames (from Ikea) spray painted gold.  They look amazing and high-end.  Who doesn't want a touch of metallic in their home?

Definitely not a new idea, but framing a vintage scarf is instantaneous artwork.  I am on the hunt for a vintage scarf while here in Vienna.  

So clever.  Framing a letter, postcard or memento that has sentimental value. I particularly like how they framed the envelope along with the letter.  Given where technology is going, handwritten notes will be a thing of the past - what a great way to preserve meaningful letters, notes, etc.  

Aren't all of these so great and doable?  That is my kind of DIY - super easy, affordable and looks design worthy!!  Have a great weekend guys!!  Bis bald....

Black Fireplaces

I am slowly trying to pinpoint my likes and dislikes in regards to what I want in our future home.  It won't be long until we're back in CT buying a new home.

The other day, I was perusing my 'pins' and I noticed a trend - black fireplaces.  I like the contrast.  I like the masculine edge.  Especially against a neutral backdrop, it can really create a dramatic effect.

In the above three photos, I especially like how the touches of pink, cream and gold soften the spaces which contrasts with the masculine feel of the fireplace.   

Carrie from Hazardous Design recently painted her fireplace a dark color and it turned out fantastic.

Images via pinterest

I admit painting a fireplace black would be stepping out of my comfort zone.  I think I would typically want to play it safe and go with a traditional white one, but I'm trying to push myself a bit and force myself to take some risks.  

So, how about you - would you consider a black fireplace in your home?