Simple Dwellings

I Just Had To Try This!

2012-02-27T02:00:00.002-05:00

I have seen this creative project a couple places and I knew I had the perfect wall to try it out for myself! I first saw this cool idea of writing on the wall from Courtney's blog A Thoughtful Place. It came out great and looked pretty simple to do! Then just last week I saw some inspiring wall images from the blog Coco Cozy. I thought it was so clever and unique that I had to try it! The best part about the project is that you can write whatever you want, making it meaningful and personal to you! I chose an inspiring quote that I found on pinterest. As I'm trying to figure out what I want to do and the career path I want to take, this will definitely continue to inspire me! Also, I thought the quote would be a great jump start to every day, while also looking pretty sweet on the wall:

Source: wherethesidewalkbegins.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

And here is the quote on our family room wall:

I used Elmer's Painters Marker in White, with a medium tip for writing. It's a permanent pen, so the writing should not smear away. I wanted the script to appear subtle, so it didn't jump out at you too much. I was able to fit the quote almost 3 times and used just one pen to finish! I wanted the look to appear as if it was an ongoing script, so when it came time to finish a word at the end of the wall, I didn't try and smoosh the word to fit. I just wrote what I could, then continued on the next line. (That only happened a couple times.) I also decided to make all letters lowercase and not use punctuation.

My Tips for Wall Writing

- As you write, push down on the pen. (I learned this the hard way, as I had to go back and darken some words). When you push down as you write, the words come out clearer and darker.

- If you're going to try this, go for the whole wall! I think it makes you take notice and becomes like wallpaper art!

- After every line, it's a good idea to take a step back and make sure you like how it looks and that it is straight. I wish I did that a little more often, but it's an original! :) I should have tried Courtney's suggestion of making pencil lines with a level, then erasing after!

Are you ready to take out your pen and start writing???

Fashion Friday

2012-02-24T02:00:00.003-05:00

Happy weekend and welcome to the series Fashion Friday... where I discuss my other design love! With March right around the corner, I definitely have spring on the brain. So as the saying goes, If you build it, they will come (or something like that!) So, if I build a spring outfit, maybe spring will arrive early.

Spring is in the Air by simpledwellings2

I can't wait for sandals and open toed shoes! You have to have the sunglasses for a sunny spring day! And bright, cheery colors with light, breezy fabrics are all calling my name!

Here's to spring arriving early! (One can hope, right???)

A Little Q & A With Me!

2012-02-23T08:56:00.002-05:00

Hello, hello! I'm glad to be back and feeling better. I've been a little sporadic with posts because of a head cold. And I'm happy to return with a fun one... I've been tagged by my blog friend, Pam, of Simple Details to be a part of a little Q & A going on throughout the blogosphere. I answer 11 questions that Pam has come up with and then create 11 new questions for other bloggers. So here goes-

1. What would be the career of your dreams?

I have always wanted to enter the design world, somehow! For me, the ideal job would be an interior decorator (trying that as we speak) and boutique owner, selling collections of my favorite decor and furniture styles. I think the exterior of this shop is so sweet!

Source: vintagerosegarden.tumblr.com via Sarah on Pinterest

2. I would eat Top Ramen noodles for a month in order to save up for ___________! Or, I wouldn't eat Top Ramen for anything!

Oh, I'm up for that challenge! I would eat Ramen noodles for a month for a new subway tile backsplash and quartz countertops! I like our white cabinets, and with those changes, it would be worth the food sacrifice!

3. Which would you choose for a date with your husband: Candlelight dinner at a nice restaurant or day of hiking in the mountains?

Although my husband and I love the outdoors, I would choose the candlelight dinner! We love to try new restaurants, and with the hustle and bustle of daily life, sitting and relaxing would be nice! I think he would agree with me on this one too! How about this location???

Source: beachcomber26.blogspot.com via Cathy on Pinterest

4. In which sport or athletic activity would you most like to participate?

I love running, so I would choose track! I ran track in high school and college and I loved the rush of adrenaline! The anticipation right before the race began was so exciting. Nothing like it!

Source: google.com via Liz on Pinterest

5. What do you wish you were more knowledgeable about?

This is a good one! I could pick so many things! :) I would have to say history! I think it's extremely interesting, but I might not make it far in Jeopardy!

6. Pretend one of your online blogging friends is coming to visit for the weekend, what one thing would you do to your home before she arrived?

Ohh... good one! I would definitely have to clean up, polish the accessories and add fresh flowers to the table! Everything always looks better with some peonies!

Source: thedecorista.tumblr.com via Kendall on Pinterest

7. What kind of driver are you (speed demon, rule follower, tickets, fender benders, easy going)?

I guess I'm pretty much a rule follower, but maybe a bit impatient behind the wheel, too!

8. It's hard for me to_____________.

Hmmm... I guess it's hard for me to stop/forget something until it's finished. When I'm creating design boards for clients, it's all I think about until it's done. Projects can consume me, but in a fun way!

9. What are your nicknames?

With a fairly short first name like Amber, I never really had nicknames! I have always been called Amber.

10. What is your best quality?

I guess my best quality would be optimism! I always try to look on the bright side of everything. It always works out in the end as my mom would say!

Source: Uploaded by user via Simple on Pinterest

11. What is your best piece of advice for raising children?

My best advice would be to allow your children to be who they want to be and explore! I was so lucky to have my mom and dad support me when I almost changed colleges and degrees. It really made me feel as if I could do anything!

Thanks so much to Pam for letting me in on this exercise. It was so fun to think about!

And now for passing it on...
Here are my 11 questions:

1. Think of your favorite blogger. What would be the first thing you would ask that person if you were having lunch?
2. What is the one food you cannot go a week without having?
3. Past or present, who would you want to have over for dinner?
4. If you watch reality tv, which one is your ultimate favorite?
5. What is your best piece of advice?
6. In one word, pinterest is _____ .
7. In thinking about your accomplishments, which one are you most proud of?
8. Would you rather cook or dine out?
9. Who would you want to trade places with for the day?
10. If you could have superpowers for the day, what would you do?
11. Tell us about your best quality.

I would love to pass these questions on to all of you! Try and answer them and then let me know! I will include a link to your blog with your answers!

What's Your Take on Roman Shades?

2012-02-21T02:00:00.001-05:00

I am thinking of replacing some sheer drapery panels with roman shades. Currently, I have silk drapery panels paired with sheers. I'm looking for a change, and it got me thinking... what type of roman shade is my favorite???

Fabric roman shades:

Source: be-mine-interior-design.tumblr.com via Simple on Pinterest

Or bamboo roman shades:

Source: decorpad.com via Simple on Pinterest

And if I go with fabric shades, do I choose patterned print:

Source: Uploaded by user via Simple on Pinterest

Or plain fabric:

Source: room-galleries.myhomeideas.com via Simple on Pinterest

Installed inside the wall moldings:

Source: loftandcottage.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

Or outside the wall moldings:

Source: houseofturquoise.com via Simple on Pinterest

With drapery:

Source: everythingleb.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

Or left on its own:

Source: designyourwalls.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

Loose flowing:

Source: coastalliving.com via Simple on Pinterest

Or more crisp and tailored:

Source: thenester.com via Simple on Pinterest

Ohhh.... decisions, decisions! Either way, this was fun to think about! All of these spaces are gorgeous- I love all of the looks!

What would you do???

My Ideas on Shelf Styling

2012-02-20T09:40:00.000-05:00

With our walls now repainted, I had fun styling the shelves in the family room and changing things around. It really got me thinking about the way I like my shelves filled... am I more of an airy, open spaced person, or do I like them stock full of things? I guess, depending on the function and purpose, maybe a little bit of both! Here is the way our shelves are styled (for now):

Sticking with a fairly neutral palette of whites, gray/blues and black, the purpose of these shelves is to mainly show off my favorite accessories while also keeping the bottom shelf practical for pillow storage. Since this space isn't for library storage, I'm able to keep parts of the shelves open to breathe. In my opinion, every nook and cranny of the shelves doesn't have to be filled with things... it's also great to keep a light, airy feel in some of the spaces. Some of the shelves have the items centered, so then others will either be off to the right or left to help balance the space and give some interest. I like when things are in front of others, stacked on each other or leaned up against the back of the shelf- the different combinations make for an interesting aesthetic. That all being said, there are other times when it's necessary and beautiful to have the shelves filled to the brim- the results can be amazing!

Source: becauseimaddicted.net via Simple on Pinterest

Source: littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

The shelves in these amazing spaces are very full, but work beautifully! They still have a very chic style about them, because of their thoughtful mix of the practical and pretty. Even though these shelves seem to be filled, they still have some airy, open spots to breathe. You can tell they have been well thought out!

So how about you... do you like your shelves to breathe or do you fill them up???

Why This Works

2012-02-16T17:28:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the series Why This Works... where I highlight a designed space and talk about what I love! This entry was found on pinterest and seamlessly blends old and new, modern and traditional.

Source: emilyanninteriors.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

I love that this foyer mixes vintage with modern, adding such a lived in, eclectic look! The antique dresser is paired with a gorgeous gold mirror and modern wallpaper. I also love seeing stencil or wallpaper on just one wall- sometimes that's all you need for major impact! The traditional style of the floor and silhouette art on the wall works so well paired with the modern gray paint color and amazing wallpaper. The accessories on the dresser gives a fresh take on an antique piece of furniture. The mix of the modern gold and white works so well paired with the rustic wood of the dresser. Overall, this space works and I wish I could see more!

My Painting Tips and More After Photos

2012-02-15T08:47:00.002-05:00

I am so happy that our room painting is complete! It was a huge task with lots of walls and brush cutting around doorways and windows. And since wall painting is not one of my favorite tasks, I had to approach this project in a way that I could manage! Here are some more after photos of our kitchen and family rooms:

And here are my tips for a manageable painting experience (for those of us who don't like it!)

1. Set aside time that is quiet and all to yourself. It allows you to not get distracted and really focus. I had the tv on to HGTV for some background inspiration!

2. Start painting on a full stomach, so you are energized to go and off to a great start.

3. For me, this step was key: work on only one wall a day! Since I was painting over dark walls, I knew I needed 2-3 coats to get the look just right. There was no way I was going to paint a bunch of walls this way in one night. So, I just focused on perfecting one wall a day. This way, I didn't get tired and sloppy with the paint job and the end was always in sight! Also, try not to stop in the middle of a wall- the sheen might look different when going back to it another day. When you stop in a corner or at the end of a wall, you would never know the difference!

4. Make sure you buy enough paint in one visit to the store! (I have made this mistake before and it cost me!) When you go back to the store to get more of the same color made, it might not be exact. A different employer might add a drop more of a color when mixing, causing the color to be a tad different. So if you're still working on the same wall, you might see a difference!

5. And last but not least, buy quality rollers, brushes and paint! If you ever need to clean your walls, make sure you go with an eggshell finish or paint that can be wiped down and scrubbed! And great rollers and brushes speed up your finish time, give a great paint job and resist splatter!

These were my go to tips that got me through! I don't feel too burned out and actually might start another room soon! More to follow on that.....

Happy Sweets Day!

2012-02-14T07:00:00.002-05:00

Today is the day to splurge on candy, cupcakes and the like.... so why not call it Happy Sweets Day! I made some cute cupcakes (the simple Betty Crocker kind) and added a little heart topper for a festive touch!

Today is the last day for the 14 Days of Blogosphere Love party. Latoya is hosting a link party on her blog. So head on over and link up your Valentine's inspired post! (Click on button!)

And Happy Valentine's Day to my sweet hubby!!

I Found My Driftwood!

2012-02-13T02:00:00.002-05:00

I mentioned here that I had been on the hunt for a rectangular driftwood mirror or the materials to make my own for our foyer. Look no further- a mirror has been found, purchased and is proudly in its new location! A huge thank you to my mom for this one! She told me that she found one at Kohl's that looked just like my inspiration image here. And here is mine in its new location:

I am super excited to look at it everyday! It was on a great sale and there were only a few left in the store. The scale is a bit smaller than I had originally planned for, but I like this size better... if it was any longer, people would have bumped into it every time they sat down! Things always have a way of working out- the stars definitely aligned with this one! Also, a huge thank you to the hubby for the early Valentine's Day present! :)

Why This Works and Fashion Friday - V Day Edition!

2012-02-10T02:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Weekend and welcome to the series combo of Why This Works and Fashion Friday all rolled into one post! With Valentine's Day right around the corner, I thought it would be fun to find a room and outfit inspired by the whimsical colors of the holiday! With hues of pinks included in main living spaces, I can only take it in small doses. This room strikes the perfect balance for me... enjoy!

Source: homeits.com via Simple on Pinterest

When you tire of this vibrant color, it can easily be switched out in this room- the pillows, art, lamp shade and flowers can be traded out for several other colors. This space has a very versatile color palette and allows so many other choices in the future. I love that the walls, seating and area rug are very neutral and light, allowing the gold and magenta to take center stage! The black detail in the armchair, bench and coffee table ground the space so well. The small touch of chrome in the end table makes the space feel sleek and stylish, while the subtle details of stripes in the area rug and zebra on the bench add texture and interest. Overall, this space works!

What are your thoughts??

And now for the Fashion Friday post! Let's have fun with this room and see what it would be as an outfit!

Pretty In Pink by simpledwellings2

For this outfit, I stuck with the same color palette of gold, magenta and black. I thought it would be fun to also include an animal print blouse, since the living space had such an amazing zebra hide bench. And with the weather feeling like spring in so many places right now, why not make this a spring inspired outfit!

My Valentine's Day Tablescape

2012-02-09T03:00:00.002-05:00

Happy Thursday! Today is my turn for the 14 Days of Blogosphere Love post. Latoya from The Scott's Crib, came up with a great idea to ask some bloggers to count down to the sweet holiday with some festive inspiration. So my idea is dressing up the table for Valentine's Day!

I wanted to give the table a mix of styles... blending fancy with rustic and pretty with simple. Let's start with the table setting- all of the china is from our wedding collection. I balanced all of the fancy with simple napkins and placemats that are actually just paper napkins! I love opening up the large paper napkins and using them for a pop of color... (it's also a simple solution that's easy on the wallet!) I wanted to do something that was fun to look at when you first sit down, and these candy canes left over from Christmas make a nice heart shape! I was inspired by this idea from pinterest:

Source: beverlys.com via Simple on Pinterest

I altered it a bit for Valentine's Day and made little hearts instead! The centerpiece was also fun to make and so inexpensive! I took some grilling skewers that I already had, purchased some large marshmallows and shredded paper- and voila- a simple and rustic centerpiece! The marshmallow skewers can easily be taken out for dessert and dipped in melted chocolate for a delicious treat! The 3 jelly jars on the table can be filled with white votives, making the table glow at night.

Thanks to Latoya for asking me to participate in the Valentine's series! Make sure you also check out the other wonderful bloggers and their crafty ideas and link up to Latoya's blog on the 14th for a Valentine's Link Party for everyone!

If My Blog Was A Room - Next Up - The Designer Lifestyle

2012-02-08T03:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Wednesday and welcome to the series If My Blog Was A Room... where I pose the challenge to think of your blog as an actual space. What would that space look like? I am so excited to have Tiffany here, from her design blog The Designer Lifestyle. Tiffany is new to blogging and I've enjoyed reading her posts and meeting a new blog friend! Here is what she came up with-

Hello!
I’m Tiffany from The Designer Lifestyle and I’m so honoured and excited to be a part of this fun series here on Simple Dwellings! As a fairly new blogger, I’m
loving ways to connect with the design blogging community.Thank you for having me!

When I first started brainstorming about what my blog would look like if it
were a room, I knew immediately that it would be A BEDROOM. I do most of my blogging from my bed, and I also like to think of my blog as a place for myself and readers alike to unwind and relax after a long day.

Here is my header ^. As a cue of inspiration from it, my blog bedroom would most definitely need a beautiful mirrored vanity like the one drawn in my header. While my blog has an emphasis on interior design, I also feature some fashion and beauty, both of which take place in the bedroom as you get ready in the morning! A vanity like this can also double as a desk :)

via

As for the fashion aspect, the room would definitely need a gorgeous walk in closet (a girl can dream right?)

via

In terms of the bedding itself, the duvet would be a crisp white like the text box of my blog. Caitlin Wilson Textiles offer up the perfect throw cushions for my blog bedroom. That geometric turquoise one in the front is almost an exact match to the background of my blog, and the coral colours match my title and links font!

via

It would also require a beautiful upholstered headboard for reading and blogging from bed! I love the nail head and tufted details of the following example:

via

My blog is essentially my place to post all of my inspiration, and so the room would absolutely NEED a large inspiration board!


via

Lastly, I'd incorporate fun, trendy and colorful accessories to
represent my personality that I inject into each post. My taste is pretty
eclectic, nothing too matchy-matchy, just a collection of beautiful
things.

I've put together a board of what the room might end up looking like to bring it all together:

I hope you enjoyed reading about my blog's room as much as I enjoyed putting it together! A big thank you to Amber for having me! Please stop by The Designer Lifestyle and stay awhile! Have a wonderful day xox

Thanks so much for being here, Tiffany! I love what you came up with- this would make a fabulous room! Tufted headboards and the beautiful color combination of turqouise and coral would make a lovely, restful retreat, in my book! Definitely stop by Tiffany's blog and welcome her to blogging!

Our Kitchen and Family Room - Before and Afters Revealed!

2012-02-06T21:43:00.000-05:00

I finally did some styling and took some pictures of our rooms with the new paint color! I am really happy with the way it came out and am loving the lighter color. I went with Benjamin Moore's Alaskan Husky in an eggshell finish. Our ceilings were already painted Horizon, which is one shade lighter on the swatch. The colors are both very light shades of a blue/gray. With the ceiling already painted, I knew the color would go- but it is a pretty dramatic change for us!

Kitchen Before:

And the Kitchen After:

Family Room Before:

And the Family Room After:

The spaces truly feel so different with a new paint color. Even the same accessories look new again! I will show more shots of the spaces soon, along with my no hassle painting tips!

Lighten Up

2012-02-06T08:36:00.000-05:00

As I've been busy painting away in our kitchen and family room, I definitely have lighter colored rooms on the brain. Most of the walls in our home have been dark for a while, and I'm looking to change that in a few spaces. I love the moodiness and drama of dark walls, but I'm lightening things up this year in a couple rooms and I'm excited for the change. (I will post the after photos soon- just waiting for the perfect sunny day to take the pictures!)

Source: emilyaclark.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Simple on Pinterest

Source: housetohome.co.uk via Simple on Pinterest

Source: angiehelminteriors.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: houseofturquoise.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: bhg.com via Simple on Pinterest

These images are beautiful and I'm so excited I lightened it up! The second image is almost exactly our paint color. After pictures to come soon!

If My Blog Was A Room - Next Up - My Design Ethos

2012-02-03T11:21:00.000-05:00

Happy weekend and welcome to the series If My Blog Was A Room... where I pose the challenge to think of your blog as an actual space. What would that space look like? I am so excited to have Anna here, from her decor blog My Design Ethos. I have followed Anna's blog for a while and love to see what she's up to with her home renovations and client projects. She lives in Australia and I love that blogging can form friendships from anywhere in the world! Without further adieu, here's what Anna came up with-

Just like everyone else I love reading Amber’s ‘If my blog was a room…’ series. So I was very excited to be involved! I’m Anna by the way, and blog over at My Design Ethos. I’m an online interior designer so my blog serves as an ongoing inspiration source for my client’s projects, as well as my own house. So, as you can see my header is fairly simple…

Because I use my blog as a place to record my inspiration for clients, the styles I post about range from minimalist to bohemian and everything in between. But, it’s also a reflection of my own personal style… a little modern, a little traditional, a little formal, a little casual with some interesting art and patterned fabrics.

As you arrive it would need a lovely entry with aqua wallpaper, and a touch of grey accents. Maybe something like this?

Found at the Lennoxx.

But modernised, with some pieces like this…

Found on Pinterestvia The Girls of Lincoln Park.

Once we’ve met I’d bring you into a living space. In an aqua room my style might look a little something like this…

I always want my blog to reflect lots of styles, and a comfortable place to discuss those styles. So it would need a cosy room, with lots of light, bookshelves for all those design books and blogs, and a pretty chair to discuss everything with a cup of tea (or wine, let’s be honest!). Of course, a little neutral pattern layering and gorgeous gallery wall would never go astray either…

Tori Mellott’s apartment. Featured in Domino. Found here.

My blog is never moody, but sometimes the interiors can be just a little bit touchy…

Found at BDG Style.

Of course, if you follow ‘my design ethos’ long enough you will hear about my never-ending house renovation and future dreams for my own home. Thus, there is always a lot of navy, mustard yellow and grey floating around my blog as well.

Styling by JC Garcia-Lavin. Featured in Elle Décor.Found here.

While all these formal spaces are great for a glass of wine, I am an Aussie, so after our chat we would have to move somewhere out the back which is casual and comfy, where we can sit in our wet togs after a swim and have a cold drink. Somewhere like this…

Via Real Living on Ninemsn website.

Well thanks for having me Amber! I hope you all love my ‘blog room’, but make sure you drop around so we can chat about all the other fabulous interior styles I love as well!

Thanks so much for being here, Anna! I love everything about the foyer in the second image and the bold use of color and pattern in every space! (And thanks to Anna for her patience, as we worked out some kinks with google and formatting this week!)

Definitely stop by Anna's blog and say hello!

Why This Works

2012-02-02T02:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Thursday and welcome to the series Why This Works... where I highlight a designed space and talk about what I love! I found this space on pinterest and it definitely made me smile.

Source: paloma81.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

What immediately gets me is the amazing shelf styling. I love the whimsical look of organizing your books like a rainbow! It's such a fun way to use color and your everyday items to make a statement. This can easily be achieved with the collections of books we all have. I usually think that we have too many books, but when organized like this- more is better! The rest of the space is calm and neutral, allowing the books to take center stage. This space looks like a library, with a peek into the living room. I love the white slip covered seating, natural woven rug and pops of blue. It all works so well! When looking into the next room, I love the glossy blue door- it really draws your eye into the space. In a very subtle, yet creative way, the decorator has taken the color from the books for the accessories in the space. The door, foot stool, pillow and vases all have the same beautiful hue of blue seen in the books on the shelves. The pinks and greens in the flower arrangements mimic the same hues found in the amazing book collection. I would love see more of this home! And what I love most is that this look is so achieveable- we can easily slip cover seating that may look a bit worn and arrange our books in a new and creative way. This is definitely accessible design!

What are your thoughts??

14 Days of Blogosphere Love!

2012-02-01T08:51:00.002-05:00

I am so excited to be a part of Latoya's 14 Days of Blogosphere Love. She has asked several bloggers to create a Valentine's inspired post and help count down to the holiday! First up, is Emily from Nap Time is My Time. She completed a beautiful wreath and has the tutorial here!

Stop by here on the 9th for my Valentine's Tablescape and check out the other amazing bloggers along the way!

Valentine Lovelies

2012-01-30T09:17:00.001-05:00

Valentine's Day is around the corner, and it's always fun to let the people in your life know how much they are appreciated and loved! There are so many sweet, creative ideas out there for homemade gifts, decor and pretty things! Here are some images from pinterest to get your creativity flowing!

Source: thehappyhousewife.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: tumblr.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: ljcfyi.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: asuyeta.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: etsy.com via Simple on Pinterest

Soon, I will be sharing some of my ideas for Valentine's Day, including some table setting ideas! I will be doing a variation of this idea:

Source: beverlys.com via Simple on Pinterest

And for a painting update.... most of the walls are complete in the family room! Once that is finished, on to the kitchen! After photos coming soon!!

Fashion Friday and Some News!

2012-01-27T02:00:00.002-05:00

Happy weekend and welcome to the series Fashion Friday... where I discuss my other design love! I was inspired by yesterday's cheerful room. The space was layered with texture, interest, bright pops of color and a timeless style. So, I thought I would try and create that look, in an outfit! (I must be wishing for spring to come soon, with these last posts!)

Inspired by Green by simpledwellings2

Yesterday's lakeside retreat was fun, relaxing and full of color! This outfit is a bold interpretation of that! We start with the green blazer, which reminds me so much of the green used in yesterday's space. In the dining room, the bright pop was balanced with subtle neutral hues and a little hint of a salmon, coral color. So, I found this adorable coral clutch and ring which also adds another fun color to the outfit. The soft creams and tans in the lace blouse and heels reflect the airiness in yesterday's wall and sofa colors. The inspiration space had a touch of black to anchor the room, which this skirt and earrings also do in this outfit. The ring and bracelet give a nod to the shiny, sparkly elements in the room, such as the beautiful chandeliers. With all of these cheerful inspirations, maybe spring will come early!

And here's a hint to what's happening in our dwellings, as we speak:

Our family room and kitchen will soon go from this-

To this-

I am super excited! The rooms are next to each other, and I can't wait to tie them together by having them both the same paint color! These rooms have been dark for so long, and I am excited for a major change! This color is Alaskan Husky by Benjamin Moore.

Stay tuned...

Why This Works

2012-01-26T02:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Thursday and welcome to the series Why This Works... where I highlight a designed space and talk about what I love. This is one of my favorite dining spaces from Coastal Living. I have always loved it's cheerful use of color!

Source: coastalliving.com via Simple on Pinterest

There is a lot of green in this space, but it is toned down a bit by the neutral wall color and area rug. The light sofa in the living room also helps neutralize all of the green, striking a nice balance between pops of color and serene, soft moments. Black in a room is always key and becomes a great anchor with the table lamps and fireplace surround. The rustic farmhouse table works well paired with the pretty upholstered seating and sparkly chandeliers. The tufting on the dining chairs is very traditional in style, yet the shape of the chairs is a nod to modern, sleek design. While the drapery might have bright hues, the graphic pattern of the green along with the creamy white works well together. I love the combination of green with a salmon color and you see a hint of this pretty shade with the sofa's throw pillows. The beadboard walls makes the space feel so relaxing, as does the gorgeous waterside view outside! To me, this is the perfect lakeside space!

What are your thoughts??

If My Blog Was A Room - Next Up - Primitive and Proper

2012-01-25T03:00:00.002-05:00

Happy Wednesday and welcome to the series If My Blog Was A Room... where I pose the challenge to think of your blog as an actual space. What would that space look like? I'm sure most of you already know this next amazing blogger! Today, I am super excited to have Cassie here, from her design blog Primitive and Proper. Cassie's blog showcases her creativity and DIY projects on a budget. She loves to mix modern with vintage- which, in my opinion, is a wonderful combination! Let's see what she came up with!

Hi! I am Cassie from Primitive and Proper, and I am so excited to be here on Amber's fabulous blog today! I just love Amber's style, and was so happy when she asked me to be a part of this series as I have been admiring the other bloggers and their posts!
As you can see from my header, gray and aqua are kind of my go-to colors... I love the soothing combination!

In my own home (we just moved into it in October!) I have used this combination in my living room and dining room, and will most likely use that combo in my kitchen and master bedroom when those rooms are redone. Here is a little glimpse of the combo in my dining room...

If my own blog were a room it would certainly have those colors in it, but on my blog, I love whimsy, and I love bright pops of color! I love to redo furniture pieces in almost every color under the sun! I also like to bring in a modern edge often, and gravitate towards the mix of rustic with a touch of modern.

So while the palette might be soothing, it would have some zing. The room would invite you in with its cozy, hand crafted, "someone really lives here" kind of feel, but it would give you something bright and fun to look at, too... These rooms all give me that kind of feeling- I want to sit there, and relax, but there is something bright and happy for my eyes to view, and they have that little bit of modern edginess to them....

These rooms are all pretty, have my favorite colors, host a mix of vintage and modern styles, and have pops of fun color as well! They also feel very inviting, lived in, cozy and open! When you come to my blog, I want you to feel like you are visiting an old friend. :)

If my blog were a child's room though, it would look like this... I love everything about this room! So so fun!

My blog gets a little crafty now and again, too, so its craft nook might look like this...

(All images found via Pinterest, and all original sources can be found via my pinboard, "Pretty Rooms")

Thank you so much, Amber, for allowing me to share with your readers a little more about me and my blog! I hope you will come on over- be prepared to stay, relax, have a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine!) with me and chat like we've known each other for ever.

Thanks so much for being here, Cassie! I really do feel like I'm chatting with a great friend when I stop by your blog!
I love that Cassie showed spaces that are beautiful, but also warm and inviting. I love that! Definitely stop by Cassie's blog and say hello!

Can You Tell What's On My Mind??

2012-01-24T02:00:00.001-05:00

These amazing images might give a hint:

Source: creativeorganizing.typepad.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: houzz.com via Kim on Pinterest

Source: storageandglee.blogspot.com via RCC on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Noelani on Pinterest

Source: myinspirationlounge.squarespace.com via Christina on Pinterest

I'm sure you guessed... I want to incorporate driftwood into my home! In our foyer, there is a large space above our bench just begging for a large rectangular mirror. And I have now decided (and become determined) to find one! Here is the space I am working with:

The mirror would go above black bench.

This is before we had the bench. You can see a bit of our old red coat rack.

The first image I showed is almost exactly what I am looking for. The price I had in mind was under $70. The reason I am set on that price is because in the past, I have found great mirror deals at TJ Maxx and Home Goods at that price point and lower. The dimensions would need to be about 24" x 40." This might be a tough task, but I am up for the challenge! There are driftwood mirrors on the market, but are pretty pricey. I have even thought about buying a large, plain mirror and embellishing my own driftwood. (By the way, where could I find small pieces of driftwood???)

I would love to hear your ideas!

For now, I will either think about making my own or continue to scour Home Goods! Wish me luck...

My Theories on Design (So Far)

2012-01-23T02:00:00.009-05:00

I have been thinking about this topic for a while. With some design classes under my belt, starting an e-decor business, this blog, and all of the inspiration from you- I have a few go to theories on interior design that have stuck with me so far. This past year, so much of what I have learned comes from your amazing blogs. The daily inspirations, the DIY projects and the wonderful sites like Houzz and Pinterest... there is so much design knowledge out there! You all continue to truly amaze me! So here we go- my design theories thus far:

1. To give a space an eclectic, well designed look- mix up design styles, wood and metal finishes! There is no one rule- have fun with your personal style.

Source: apartmenttherapy.com via Simple on Pinterest

2. Accessories bring a space together! This is a constant work in progress for me- I have definitely come to realize the importance of the accessories in a space. It can take a lot of editing and stepping back to see what's in front of you. I have found pinterest (yet again) a great source for this!

Source: houzz.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: simplyseductive.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

Our Family Room

3. Dark walls don't make a space feel smaller.... but lots of small furniture pieces does. A small room (even with dark walls) looks bigger with a few larger furniture pieces, as opposed to many smaller pieces. When we first bought our house, I thought I had to fill every nook and cranny with pictures on the walls, and tables and chairs everywhere. When I took a step back and only kept the things that were necessary in the space, traded out the several pieces for a few larger scale ones, the rooms felt more spacious!

Source: shelterinteriordesign.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: madebygirl.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

4. Monochromatic doesn't mean boring. Layering different textures, finishes and shades of the same color actually show tons of depth and creativity!

Source: housebeautiful.com via Simple on Pinterest

5. On the flip side, I also believe pops of color can awaken a room and bring life to the space! For me, I like to use bold color in small doses, keeping the overall look fairly neutral. This way, when I am loving a new color, it can be easily traded in to the room!

Source: thedecorista.tumblr.com via Simple on Pinterest

6. While we're on the topic of color, paint on the walls can completely change the look of your space! For not too much money, your room can go from ok to wow with the right paint color, stencil or paint treatment!

Source: thedesignerpad.com via Simple on Pinterest

And last but not least... have fun! Your space doesn't have to look like someone else's space- it just has to make you smile!

And thanks to all of you for helping me create this list... you are all so inspiring and I love learning from all of you!

Do you have any go to design theories??

Fashion Friday

2012-01-20T02:00:00.003-05:00

Happy weekend and welcome to Fashion Friday... where I discuss my other design love! Today's glitzy outfit was inspired by yesterday's glamourous and shiny room. I thought yesterday's space was fun and full of life. This outfit is definitely over the top, yet fun!

Glitz and Glamour by simpledwellings2

The girl who wears this is ready for a glamourous night of cocktails! I love this faux fur coat by Michael Kors. It definitely sets the bar high for a beautiful outfit to follow. This sequined dress and clutch are fun and sparkly and are toned down by simple black pumps. The jewelry is a mix of restrained and glamourous, trying to create a balance of classic with over the top glam.

Here's to a simple and glamourous weekend, whatever you do!

Why This Works

2012-01-19T06:00:00.002-05:00

Happy Thursday and welcome to the series Why This Works... where I highlight a designed space and discuss why it's amazing! I found this amazing image from pinterest and love the subtle yet bold use of color and prints!

Source: homedeco2u.com via Simple on Pinterest

That chandelier from Jonathan Adler gets me every time! I love its unique look and have seen it used with so many different decor styles. It's a beautiful and versatile piece. The chrome finish of the chandelier works well paired with the chrome floor lamps. The large gold mirror on the right is great in scale and also brings in a different metal finish. I always think a space feels more eclectic, unique and well designed when there is a mix of different wood and metal finishes. The soothing blue gray on the walls is the perfect backdrop for bold fabrics seen in the X benches and drapery panels. There doesn't need to be just one bold fabric in a space- layering multiple fabrics and colors works great when it can all be subdued by other neutral pieces. In this case, the wall color, area rug and sofa/ottoman are neutral enough to handle the bright pops of color in the accessories.

My only problem with the space is that I wish I could see more!!

What are your thoughts??

If My Blog Was A Room - Next Up - Michaela Noelle Designs

2012-01-18T06:00:00.002-05:00

Happy Wednesday and welcome to the series If My Blog Was A Room... where I pose the challenge to think of your blog as an actual space. What would that space look like? Today, I'm excited to have Michaela here from her design blog Michaela Noelle Designs. I have followed Michaela's blog for a while, and I always love her cheerful, sweet personality and great eye for design. Here's what she came up with for you all today:

Hello to all of Amber's readers! I'm Michaela and I blog about all things design over at Michaela Noelle Designs.

I'm so excited to be here today dishin' on what my blog would look like if it was a room. The funny thing is, my new bedroom {that I just renovated top to bottom} actually does look exactly like my blog! I didn't plan it that way on purpose...in fact, it just sort of came out in my design decisions. See?

What a coincidence! Luckily if I ever forget what my blog looks like, I just take a peek at my room ;)

To really answer the question, though, I hope my blog-room would be an eclectic mixture of shabby chic, contemporary, playful, and romantic design elements. I'm definitely drawn to the cooler color hues. I would also hope my room would reflect who lives there {or writes there!} Next, I'd like my blog-room to be organized and easy on the eyes, so the people inhabiting the space can really feel the joy of the room without being overwhelmed! Finally, I hope it would be a place that was inspired and continues to inspire others when they are there. I would hope it'd look feel something like this:

via

So, there you have it! Michaela Noelle Designs as a room :) Thank you for having me, Amber! It's been a blast pondering this question and stopping by your blog today.
xoxo

Thanks so much for being here today, Micaela! I love the images you came up with- they remind me so much of your blog! And it's amazing to see your room look so much like it already!
Definitely stop by Michaela's blog today and say hello!

Our Foyer Reveal - Let There Be Light!

2012-01-17T06:00:00.001-05:00

I started making some changes to our foyer last year, with the new wallpaper, and I'm at it again! Ever since I saw this image on pinterest, I knew I had found the right style of light for our space:

Source: decorpad.com via Simple on Pinterest

I have loved that image for so long and it has been in the back of my mind when I went out on a new light hunt! I love the look of large drum shades and thought it looked great as a ceiling pendant. The light we had before was a mission style, stain glass pendant. It was nice, but never fit the scale of the space. (It was a rookie mistake of mine to not look at the measurements before the purchase!)
Our new light, is double in size and fits the scale of the space much better. Here it is in its new home:

This is a light fixture from Lowe's and it is actually one of their energy efficient fixtures. I was a little weary at first, because I don't usually like the glow from energy efficient bulbs. I am happy to say that these bulbs cast a soft, natural glow and I'm pleased with the result!

Have you had any luck with energy efficient bulbs??

DIY - Adding Fabric Trim to Lamp Shade

2012-01-16T06:00:00.001-05:00

With the holidays behind us, it's always fun to change up some things around the home with simple and quick projects! I recently added some new grosgrain trim to my lamp shade, giving a little pizazz to our guest room corner.

Here are the quick and easy steps:

1. The only materials I needed for this project are grosgrain ribbon and fabric glue.

2. Before cutting the trim, I placed it around the shade, making sure I left a little extra to work with. (I could always cut the extra ribbon later.)

3. At first, I applied the glue to the trim, but ultimately ended up appyling right on the shade. It worked out better that way.

4. I continued to make my way around the shade, pulling the trim tight while also pressing firmly on the shade.

5. With one ream, I had enough trim for the top and bottom of the shade, with some left over! And here are some more afters:

This tacky glue is very strong and stays really well, even on this overlapping fabric shade. If you look really close, you might see some waves, but it's pretty secure. I hope this simple project inspires you to add some trim to your lamp shade!

Will you be tackling any projects at the start of the New Year??

Fashion Friday

2012-01-13T06:00:00.001-05:00

Happy weekend and welcome to Fashion Friday... where I discuss my other design love. Yesterday's room was fun, eclectic and had a lot of pattern and interest. So today's outfit is no different. Enjoy!

Eclectic Inspired by simpledwellings2

With this outfit, the overall color palette is neutral- yet with different patterns and textures, I wanted to create a layered, eclectic look. The soft textures in the blouse and cardigan play off of the rugged leather jacket. The print on the ballet flats is paired with another print in the clutch, yet the colors are neutral, keeping the outfit from being too busy. The jewlery is layered, giving an eclectic and acquired over time look. Yesterday's room was a mix of different styles and pattern, and an outfit can be the same way!

Happy Weekend!

Why This Works

2012-01-12T01:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Thursday and welcome to the series Why This Works... where I highlight a designed space and talk about why I love it so much! This next living room space was found on pinterest and seamlessly blends different styles to create an overall eclectic and fun mix:

Source: noellewrightdecor.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

I love the overall mix of patterns and styles in this space! The decorator was able to blend so many prints and styles together, without making the room look too full or busy- a hard thing to achieve! I love the straight lines in the sofa, upholstered in such a rich golden hue. This modern piece works well paired with the traditional houndstooth print in the wing chair, striking a nice balance. The wing chair has a dramatic, high back, making it seem more modern, yet the traditional upholstery gives a nod to a classic and timeless print. This print is seen again in a throw pillow for the sofa, which helps draw your eye around the entire space. The symmetry in the floor lamps makes the space appear more formal, yet the diverse end tables bring the space back to a more casual, eclectic vibe. The fresh flowers seen in the room also help to make the space feel lived in and casual. The layering of the area rugs gives the room added depth and interest, also tying in the colors of the houndstooth print chair. The neutral wall color is a nice backdrop to all of the color and pattern seen in the rest of the space. The overscaled mirror above the fireplace is a great focal point, adding more shape and dimension to the room. Overall, this space works!

What are your thoughts??

If My Blog Was A Room - Next Up - Simple Details

2012-01-11T01:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Wednesday and welcome to the series If My Blog Was A Room... where I pose the challenge to think of your blog as an actual space. What would that space look like? I am so excited to have Pam here today, from her design blog Simple Details. I have recently come across Pam's blog and love the way she blends design styles, while keeping the overall look classic and timeless. I love that! Here is her blog header:

And here is what she came up with!

Thanks so much for inviting me Amber!

I've always loved this series and it's quite the honor to be included with your
previous guests.
I had such a fun time coming up with a room(s)!

Forgive me for going overboard...it's all the fault of Pinterest...need I say more?

Welcome! I'm so glad you stopped by...

The oh-so-important first impression...
I hope my blog mimics this fresh, happy, entrance!

I hope it inspires you to mix it up and try something different...
a traditional Dutch door paired with an ethnic style chest in this foyer.

I hope it conveys a love for all things design,
whether it's a room with edited accessories, modern touches and a cottage vibe...

...or a room packed with treasured pieces,

a timeless style, and elegance yet a playful whimsical piece thrown in.

I hope you'll find something a little unexpected and inspiring here and there...

the art that draws you in to take a closer look,

the buffet or chairs to wonder if it could be your next diy.

I hope it says...no matter your style, where you've been or where you're going,

there's a spot for you and bring a friend!

Thank you, Amber!

It was fun and thought provoking to find rooms I love that reflect my blog!

1/2/3/4/5/6/7

Thanks so much for being a part of the series, Pam! These images are gorgeous and definitely remind me of your blog- the special details in these spaces are what makes the rooms sing! Stop by Pam's blog and say hello!

Our Guest Room Revealed!

2012-01-10T02:00:00.002-05:00

We have been tackling this project for quite some time, and I'm happy to reveal the after photos of our guest room! In the rest of our home, the colors are neutral and muted, so I wanted to try something different in this space and go for a brighter, cheery vibe. Here is the before shot, when we were adding the stripes to the bed wall:

Before:

And after:

With a simple palette of blues, greens and yellows, I wanted to achieve a fun, cheerful space for guests. The room's wall color is Yarmouth Blue by Benjamin Moore and the white stripes and trim work are painted Moonlight White also by BM. I found some great deals on the items in this space and have acquired them over time. The lamp was a great Target score at only $20, including the shade! The chevron pillow is also from Target and the rest of the throw pillows are from Pottery Barn. The green frame was a great TJ Maxx find, but still has the original image of Valerie Bertinelli that came with the frame. Now if you've been reading this blog for a while you're probably thinking: Really?? She hasn't changed that out yet?? But like I said in yesterday's post, I tend to procrastinate with my own home and will eventually switch that out with a photo of someone I actually know! The night stand has been around forever and plan to eventually change that out with a pedestal style end table. The room is small enough already and could use the extra visual space. The wall art behind the end table helps to bring in the vibrant colors in the space, making it a fun, whimsical piece. And the art above the bed was made by me in college! I took an art class and this piece was made with 3 different sized black paper dots, to show the variation in a newspaper print image. Since the piece is small, I plan to add more of something above the bed.
As you all know, a room is never completely done, so I plan to add a bit more in the future. Here's the breakdown:

- Add a charcoal trim to the lamp shade.
- Add more art above the bed.
- Add a drapery rod and curtains above window.
- Maybe add a bench or small seating option.
- Do something different with the end table.

That's where we're at for now! I am definitely getting motivated to do more with other areas in our home! More to follow...

Guest Bedrooms on the Brain

2012-01-09T09:26:00.001-05:00

I have been making some changes and updates to our guest bedroom, and it's almost there! It has been fun coming up with a cheery color palette, adding whimsical touches and fine tuning/tweaking the space. I like to start a room, then step back and take a look to see what else it needs. It ends up being a long process. (Partly because I tend to procrastinate when it comes to my own spaces!) But, we're almost there and the big reveal will be tomorrow. For now, here are some lovely bedroom images from pinterest for this Monday!

Source: favoritepaintcolors.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: erineverafter.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Simple on Pinterest

Source: cococozy.com via Simple on Pinterest

These images give a hint in the direction of the room's color palette. The first two images are very similar to my room's wall color and the last image almost has the entire color palette of the space. Stay tuned for tomorrow's guest room reveal!

One Year Ago Today...

2012-01-08T02:00:00.003-05:00

My little blog is officially one year old today!! This has been such an amazing year, full of new possibilities, dreams and great new friends. I am so thankful to all of you that have stuck around and checked in to what I have to say! It means the world to me. When I started this blog, I was amazed that people would read it, comment and actually follow! Me?? I have loved blogging so far, and I look forward to future posts!

Source: zaba.soup.io via Simple on Pinterest

I thought it would be fun to take a look back at my very first post (which actually had no pictures!)

1/8/11

I have loved interior design for as long as I can remember. I am an avid HGTV fan and love to come up with new decorating ideas, or expanding on existing ones. My education background is not design, but I feel it is my calling! I daydream about what to decorate next, or how large print damask wallpaper will look in my entryway. I truly believe that you don't have to be a famous designer to have great style. You also don't have to break the bank to afford great style. Choosing to begin with timeless pieces that will always be in vogue and will stand through the ever changing trends is what makes your design last!
Let's get ready to talk design!

Well... I did do the large print damask wallpaper in our foyer! I also tried out stenciling this year and embarked on a new e-decorating career! My first actual client was this past summer, and it was so much fun. I have thoroughly enjoyed writing this blog and sharing what I love to talk about... design! I promise that this coming year will be filled with gorgeous room inspirations, lots of DIY projects and more decor fun. Thanks so much for checking in and reading, and here's to another year!!

Fashion Friday

2012-01-06T08:29:00.000-05:00

Happy weekend and welcome to the series Fashion Friday... where I show an outfit inspired by interior design! I really liked the soothing and simple color palette of yesterday's room, so I thought I would show my outfit interpretation of the space!

Tuxedo Casual by simpledwellings2

Yesterday's great room was filled with hues of white, gray and black- with a hint of red! So I did the same with this fashion interpretation- the base of the outfit has black leggings, with a simple black and white striped shirt and gray cardigan. Simple and comfortable... and who doesn't look great in black?!? White, gray and black are almost always in my outfits, so this was a simple task for me! The gray suede boots are a splurge and add just a hint of red at the bottom. Aren't Louboutins on everyone's wish list??? This is an imaginary outfit, so why not splurge a little! The red bag also ties in the accessory color and gives the outfit some life. The snake earrings are a whimsical touch and reminded me of the animal art that was in yesterday's space.

If you created an outfit inspired by a favorite room, what colors would it have???

Why This Works

2012-01-05T08:10:00.000-05:00

Happy Thursday and welcome to the series Why This Works... where I highlight a designed space and discuss what I love and why it works so well. This week's great room space is a bit masculine, but I love it's character and architectural details. It was seen in House Beautiful and was designed by Ken Fulk. Have a look!

Seen in House Beautiful.

The size and scope of the space drew me in at first and then the details and subtle pops of color kept me interested in the design. The stone floors balance well with the soft upholstered chesterfield sofa and the soothing palette of gray, white and black add to the charm of the room. The two drum tables work well for a coffee table and can easily be moved around when needed in other areas. The sturdy material of the drum tables works great paired with the delicate red tulips, for a nice balance. The dining area doubles as a reading nook, with plentiful books and a dramatic globe as the centerpiece. I love to see unusual centerpieces and this one speaks to the personality of the space and adds a bit of whimsy. The bistro style chairs, distressed kitchen island and oversized pendants add a rustic feel to the space, while the large, modern dog art shows a pop of color and also adds another hint of whimsy and fun to the great room. When looking up, the beautiful height of the ceilings show the exposed beams and makes the space feel larger. This space/color palette is also so versatile! The red can easily be switched out with either citron, plum or coral for a totally different look. Overall, this space works!

What are your thoughts??

If My Blog Was A Room - Next Up - The Scott's Crib

2012-01-04T07:09:00.000-05:00

With the holidays behind us, I am ready to get back in gear with weekly series posts! I am so excited to bring back the blog room series with this wonderful blogger... Latoya from The Scott's Crib. In her blog, Latoya shows us that beautiful and fun design doesn't have to cost a fortune! She has great DIY ideas and she's here today to show us what her blog would look like as a room! Here is her great blog header:

And here is what she came up with-

Talk about being super psyched to write about my blog being a room would definitely be an understatement! Simple Dwelling readers I am so happy that Amber asked me to write about this topic for you today.

I knew this topic would be relatively easy for me because I like to keep things fun and refreshing over at my blog but narrowing down the many pictures over on Pinterest can be a daunting task! I am sure many of you can relate!

So without further adieu let me share with you the pictures that I feel scream The Scott's Crib! The first picture is from Young House Love. I started The Scott's Crib after stalking John and Sherry's blog for a year or so. There style is quite different from my own personal style that is reflected in my home but I love them so much I feel that I channel some of their energy into my blog design.

I do my own blog design to keep in spirit with my diy, thriftiness, and cheap theme. I recently re-designed the whole blog because, while being fun I still wanted to streamline and declutter my blog. This room totally reflects those efforts because of the neutral backdrop and the bold textures and elements that makes this room the beauty that it is.

via

At The Scott's Crib you will find a neutral backdrop with refreshing pops of browns, teals, and aquas. I have recently developed an affinity for teal and throughout my last three design switcharoos it has found its home. As seen in John and Sherry's room the color teal plays beautifully with lime and charcoal colors. Again, their style is very different from my own but I can't help but love this room!

The next room I absolutely adore and again feel that the teal and bold pops of red does this neutral space such wonders. My blog doesn't have a drop of red in it (at least not yet) but the way that this room is brought together with bold pops of color is very refreshing. This room which otherwise might be perceived as cold is very inviting and open and that is exactly the look and feel that I want to create for readers when they visit my blog.

via

Keeping everything neutral, free of clutter, with bold pops to play with one's imagination is a look worth capturing in any blog or any room. I love all of the inspiration that each of these rooms provide. Although you won't find them in my home, you can definitely expect to see more of what these photographs capture in future evolving designs at The Scott's Crib.

I am so glad Amber allowed me to come and play with you all today! I hope you have been inspired and thanks again Amber for having me, it was truly a delight!

I love what Latoya came up with! These rooms are fresh, simple and beautiful! And I love that she found inspiration from rooms that might not be her complete style, but there are elements in rooms that we can all relate to and appreciate! Thanks so much for being here, Latoya!
Stop by her blog and say hello!

What's Your New Year's Resolution??

2012-01-02T21:27:00.000-05:00

My New Year's Resolution has been on my mind lately! Throughout the year, every year, I always plan to
1. Work out more and
2. Keep up with tackling my home projects. (aka- actually finish a project!)
Most of the time, the first goal never happens and the second goal gets done when possible- usually taking a long time. So when I read Danielle's post about pairing down and simplifying, I knew what my resolution had to be! It was really time for me to purge what I don't need and keep things more simple. It's a win win situation, because extra items around your home can always be donated, going to a good cause, and you end up with the things that are most important and functional in your home. I really hope to stay with this resolution this year. Maybe when I start to declutter, I can find a way to better organize my life and actually find the things that I need when I am looking for them! From time to time, I will keep you up to date with how this resolution is going and now that it's in writing- it has to happen! (You are all my witnesses!) Here are some great organization images via pinterest.

Source: bhg.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: decor8blog.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: caitlinwilsondesign.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: bhg.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: seemeeverywhere.com via Simple on Pinterest

What are your New Year's Resolutions??

Party Plans??

2011-12-30T22:51:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year! I can't believe 2012 is almost here! It has been an amazing year, and I look forward to wonderful things to come in the next year. Whether your New Year's Eve will be quiet or party hardy, with a small group or large, asleep before midnight or up till dawn- I hope you all have a wonderful New Year's filled with much happiness and lots of sparkle!

Source: google.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: newenglandfineliving.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: modcloth.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Simple on Pinterest

And last but not least..... my favorite image on pinterest for New Year's celebrating! Isn't this image amazing?

Source: ambitieuse.tumblr.com via Simple on Pinterest

I have been to Paris once and absolutely loved it! How amazing would it be to ring in the New Year there? I must say, that I am very content and happy with my quiet New Year's this year! I will be surrounded by wonderful people and laughter. I think that's a pretty perfect way to celebrate!

I wish the same for you... Happy New Year's!!

Deck the Halls - The Table is Set!

2011-12-25T13:32:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas!! I decided to add one more post to my deck the halls series... Our Dining Table! We entertained for Christmas Eve dinner, and I had to show you all a sneak peek of the table decor.

The table is set with a brown paper runner topped with a silky cream smaller runner, to add both a rustic and elegant touch. The china is our wedding set, used for special occasions and gatherings. And the little glittery birds are ornaments that I am using for the place cards! There is a little clip at the bottom, perfect for attaching to your tree branch or a place setting card. Our antique bench is the place for coffee and desserts. Later, I set out two little cakes- chocolate for one and carrot cake for the other. The smaller cakes make a pretty table setting and give your guests a dessert choice! I also made some cookies- you can never have too much dessert!

I'll be back later in the week with some new year sparkles!
Merry Christmas!!

Deck the Halls - The Kitchen

2011-12-23T18:31:00.001-05:00

The presents are wrapped (well, mostly) and the packages are bought (well, mostly). A girl can dream, right? This is one of my favorite days of the year- I love all of the anticipation for the big day. I get excited for the gathering, eating and gift giving time with family. I hope you are all enjoying this time too! And here is the last installment of the deck the halls series... The Kitchen!

In this part of our home, I place a simple wreath hung with a cranberry red velvet ribbon in front of the window. In certain spots in our home, I like the simple, quiet moments of holiday decor. It doesn't have to be dramatic or time consuming to add festive decor in your home. Sometimes, the simple things are what make you smile most! The dishwasher has a gold, graphic towel to add another holiday inspired element. And the holidays would not be complete without some cookies! On our cookie stand, I showed what's left of our lemony crisps!

And to the right of our wreath, is the dining area in our kitchen. The chandelier was spruced up with some festive and glittery branches. The twig base is the first layer. I actually liked it so much last season, that I kept the twigs around the light fixture all year. Hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas!!

Puttin' on the Glitz!

2011-12-21T17:05:00.000-05:00

Holidays are all about the sparkle... it's the perfect time to go crazy and add some glitter and shine to your home's decor! So here are some great sparkley images, all via pinterest:

Source: weheartit.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: conspicuousstyle.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: goldladymillion.tumblr.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: allisonwaken.squarespace.com via Simple on Pinterest

I love all of these ideas! What great ways to add some holiday sparkle to your home!

Deck the Halls - The Foyer

2011-12-19T09:18:00.001-05:00

The holidays are fast upon us..... like- this weekend! So here is another installment of the deck the halls series... the foyer! I had grander plans for the foyer this year, but never seemed to find the right decorations. The plan was to adorn the staircase with 3 wreaths, like this image on pinterest:

Source: theinspiredroom.net via Simple on Pinterest

But, I never seemed to find the right wreath- I was looking for boxwoods, and for some reason- they have been hard to find this year. They are either too expensive or in the form of garland. I'm not ready to give up yet, however- I can still find some early this week in time for holiday entertaining! The search is not over! Here are some decorations that are up in our foyer:

The first two images show our bench decorated with a small tree wrapped in burlap and a bow. Also on the bench, is a large holiday book and whimsical bird. Future plans for this space include a large, oversized mirror above the bench. (Santa, do you shop at home goods???)
Leading into our living and dining rooms, there is a small table set with a winter white scene. It's not overly colorful, but I thought it was fun to let your eye take a break from all of the traditional holiday colors and set the table to remind me of snow. Also in the foyer, is a small mirror with hooks, suitable for an oversized glittery stocking and a fun, whimsical sign. The hand on the shelf is actually made out of paper mache and is supposed to be for placing jewelry, but adds a touch of whimsy to the vignette.

How about you- are you still adding last minute touches???

Fashion Friday - Winter Whites

2011-12-16T09:28:00.000-05:00

With all of the holiday hustle bustle, I have taken a little break from the regular weekly series posts. So, I thought it would be fun to return Fashion Friday with a holiday inspired outfit!

Winter Whites by simpledwellings2

I love the look of cable knit and especially love cream colored accessories and clothes in the winter! I like to start with a base of skinny jeans, paired with big boots and warm sweaters. Then, I layer in a fun coat and handbag and finish off the look with a winter white hat, plaid scarf and earrings that look like little bows! (Santa- are you listening???)

What will you wear this winter??

Oh So Simple Holiday Decor Ideas!

2011-12-15T06:00:00.002-05:00

If there are still areas in your home in need of some holiday razzle dazzle, then you're in luck! Pinterest is always a great source for inspiration, and it definitely doesn't disappoint in the holiday decor department! I am still looking for a few spots in my home that need a little spruce up, and I love these ideas-

Source: beverlys.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: junkgardengirl.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: bhg.com via Simple on Pinterest

Whether it's simple wreaths, wrapped presents in a pile, or pinecones and branches layered on a bench- simple touches don't have to take a lot of time. The beauty and style, however, just looks like you did!

Guest Posting Today Over at Hyphen Interiors

2011-12-14T08:10:00.001-05:00

Today, I am over at Kristy's amazing blog, Hyphen Interiors. Kristy is in the middle of a move to Austin, and I am thrilled to be a part of her blog while she is preparing for the move! Today, I am sharing a recent project I completed.... the stenciled wall in my dining room! Stop over and say hi!

See you there!

Deck the Halls - The Front Porch

2011-12-12T09:33:00.000-05:00

We are getting super close to the holidays- I can't believe it! There are still some decorations to put up in the house, and lots to do- oh.... I need about 5 extra hours each day, this time of year! But, I do have our front porch decked out! Here are some images to start your week...

The wreath on the front door is real and from a local grocery store. The other wreath on the siding is artificial and adorned the front door last year. The sleds were given to me from my mom, which she found at antique stores many years ago. And you may remember these white planters from my fall decorations. They were used for my pumpkin topiaries here, and now they are filled with birch, evergreen and burning bush branches from our yard. (I love free decorating!) I started clipping branches for our winter decor last year. It's a win-win situation, because I'm cleaning up my yard while decorating for the winter season! I just leave them in the planters as decor all winter long, then throw them in the back yard forest at the end of the season. I love the red and green from the branches- it gives the front porch a festive look.

Little by little...... we're getting there!!

Deck the Halls - The Dining Room

2011-12-09T08:53:00.006-05:00

It's time again to show another part of our home that is all decked for the holidays! Today, it's the dining room... Here are a few shots of our dining table and chandelier makeover:

I like to keep the decorations pretty simple, so it's not a stressful experience! On pinterest, I recently saw ball ornaments placed inside a cloche for display. I loved the idea, because I collect cloches and had a couple just laying around! So, I placed the ornament balls inside and put them on my wooden display stool for a elegant, rustic touch. I then used my red holiday plate underneath, for added depth and interest. I placed it all inside a large basket and added the table runner! Pretty easy!
For the chandelier, I used some beaded garland my mom found a few years ago at our local grocery store and attached small ball ornaments with wreath wire. I also did this chandelier display last year and was able to get away with keeping the ornaments on the garland. So, putting them up this season was super fast and easy. I just had to weave the garland around each candle bulb!

So there you have it- fast and easy! What are your holiday decor plans?
Or are you completely on the ball and already finished??? (I'm not!) :)

I am linking up this post to Michaela's blog party!

Pantone's 2012 Color of the Year Is...

2011-12-08T15:23:00.003-05:00

Pantone just released their 2012 color of the year. The winner is.... Tangerine Tango!

The color is definitely a bold choice! I have come to really love this bright color in small doses and accent pieces. I am not ready to paint a room this shade of orange, but definitely love its cheerfulness on a pillow, throw, drapery and vases. Here are some ways I would use this color:

I just recently wrote about this home and designer here.

Art work from CB2

Coat Rack from Room and Board

An accessory board I put together for a client.

So, that's the color! I'm all for it in small doses, how about you???

And the winner is...

2011-12-08T08:17:00.002-05:00

The winner of the fabulous pillow giveaway from Milk and Cookies is.....
Using a random number generator, the lucky winner is #14- Latoya from The Scott's Crib. Congratulations, Latoya! Enjoy choosing a gorgeous pillow! I will e-mail you today.

Thank you so much to all who entered and to Misty for hosting this amazing giveaway!

What a Place!

2011-12-06T08:34:00.001-05:00

When I was browsing through the elle decor look book, I came across this beautiful getaway retreat that I had to share. This home was decorated by Ray Booth. Every room in this home is amazing, restrained, casual, chic and just beautiful. I hope you love it as much as I do:

Image via Elle Decor Designed by Ray Booth

What are your thoughts... could you move right in??? To see more of this mountain lodge home, go here.

And don't forget... Thursday morning is the drawing for the pillow giveaway! Also take advantage of 10% off to all! Enter the giveaway and read more here.

Isn't it Lovely?

2011-12-04T22:37:00.000-05:00

Decoration mode is in full swing around here! I am feeling more motivated and love to see all of the holiday decor back out in the home. I came across this picure recently and love the rustic, beautiful way this mantle is styled.

Image via

I love the garland around the top of the mirror, the white brick on the fireplace and the beautiful check pillows- it all works so well together! The simplicity of the fruit works so well with the gorgeous and dramatic garland.

And don't forget to enter the amazing Milk and Cookies Pillow Giveaway and check out the 10% off coupon code for all!! The winner will be announced this Thursday. Enter here!!

Deck the Halls - The Living Room

2011-12-02T07:59:00.000-05:00

The holiday season is upon us, and the decorations are making their way out of the basement and back into their proper seasonal spot! I am moving at a snail's pace this year, so I started with the extra ball ornaments and will hopefully gain more momentum from there. I think it's fun to use ornaments in different places around your home, instead of just the tree. There are so many places to show a little holiday cheer- why not spread the love in different nooks and spaces in your home! In my living room, I have placed some ornaments in glass containers, candle holders and even on books!

The holiday touches in this vignette are minimal but add a subtle, festive flair to the room! The pillow basket has the addition of a gold throw, because I love to use some silver and gold in my holiday decor. The tray on the dresser is adorned with my Country Living holiday coffee table book and glittery and shiny ornaments placed inside a glass container. I even added a few on the book for a touch of whimsy!

Another spot in our living room also has some new holiday cheer!

This secretary desk also has been adorned with more ball ornaments and festive decor! My nutcracker, covered in silver and gold sits on a coffe table book, with a single glitter ornament tucked inside a glass candle holder. My candlestick lamp shade has been replaced with a festive red and green plaid. And a larger glass container sits on the secretary desk, filled with more ornaments! A watercolor print from Laura Trevey also joins the holiday decor, because of its beautiful blend of colors, including red and green!

Much more holiday decorating to come... stay tuned!

Linking this post up to Courtney, from A Thoughtful Place. She definitely helped me get motivated to decorate with this month's link party!

Pillow Giveaway from Milk and Cookies and 10% off to All!!

2011-12-01T07:08:00.003-05:00

Are you ready for this??? The amazing, wonderful etsy shop, Milk and Cookies, is sponsoring a fabulous giveaway to one lucky reader of this blog! I love her amazing pillow prints, the huge selection of designer fabrics and the stellar prices of the pillow cases! One lucky Simple Dwellings reader will win a pillow case of their choice- a $25 value! Here is a little sampling of the gorgeous prints you will find at her etsy shop:

There are so many more to choose from on her site! And all of the gorgeous pillow cases shown above are under $25!! AMAZING!! This is a great time to think of adding a new accessory to your home before the holidays or wrap up and give to a friend!

Here's How To Enter:

- Follow Simple Dwellings through Google Friend Connect on sidebar.
- Follow Milk and Cookies blog.
- Stop by her etsy shop here and come back to this blog, telling us your favorite pillow print!
- Please leave your e-mail address in your comment, if you are not linked up to a blog or do not have a visible e-mail address.

For Additional Entries:

- Like Milk and Cookies on facebook here.
- Mention this giveaway on:
Twitter
Facebook
Your Blog
(Leave separate comments saying you have done so!)

The winner will be announced Thursday morning, 12/8, EST. Best of Luck!!

But that's not all!! The wonderful Misty from Milk and Cookies is also giving 10% off to ALL readers until Thursday, 12/8!! Just type coupon code : SIMPLEDWELLINGS at checkout!

What I'll Be Doing This Week...

2011-11-29T10:00:00.001-05:00

It's about that time to start taking out the bows, ribbons, wreaths and all the trimmings! I am starting a new series later this week, called Deck The Halls! Every week leading up to Christmas, I will feature a spot in my home that is all ready for the holiday season. (This will be a great motivator for me, as I seem to put things off!) These are the things I am thinking about for this week, via pinterest:

Source: theinspiredroom.net via Simple on Pinterest

Source: bhg.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: aroomsomewhere.net via Simple on Pinterest

Source: momsbyheart.net via Simple on Pinterest

Over the years, I have decorated our home similar to these ideas above. This might be a little ambitious for the week, but I am (hopefully) up for the challenge! Wish me luck!

Have you added any holiday decor yet? I would love to hear about it!!

Guest Posting at Dot Coms for Moms

2011-11-27T09:36:00.001-05:00

I am super excited to be over at a wonderful site, Dot Comes for Moms, sharing some fun and simple ways to decorate for the holidays. This amazing site brings the best of the web to women, moms and all who appreciate home decor, cooking, health, beauty and more. I was so honored when they asked me to write an article about holiday decorating ideas. I decided to pick a theme that we can all appreciate: simple and easy decorating ideas, but with a twist- I thought it would be fun to try and think outside the box and use holiday decorations in unconventional ways! I know that I love ideas that are fast and stylish! I was able to find so much inspiration and beautiful decor ideas through pinterest. I am now ready to start decorating! Check out the post here.

Happy Thanksgiving and a Guest Post!

2011-11-23T07:09:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving week! I look forward to eating a lot, relaxing and eating a lot! I cannot believe Christmas is around the corner. Where has the time gone? This time of year really makes me think about all I am thankful for. My wonderful family and friends who are so dear to my heart- I am so thankful for you!

Source: bowerpowerblog.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: aplaceforusblog.com via Simple on Pinterest

I am also out and about today, guest posting over at Kristy's blog, Hyphen Interiors, while she is getting prepared for her move! I love Kristy's design blog and I am so happy to be over there today, sharing some great holiday decor ideas. Stop over and check it out here!

Accessories - The Final Touch

2011-11-22T10:44:00.001-05:00

Since I started my blog last January, I have a newfound appreciation for accessories. There are so many great ideas out there for shelf styling, creating small vignettes and styling in general! I used to focus primarily on the larger pieces in the room, such as all of the furniture. Although that's extremely important as well, the accessories bring the space together, making the room look polished and unique. I thought I would share my favorite accessory groupings from pinterest, and then show some of my own that I have been working on in our home! So here goes:

Source: 6thstreetdesignschool.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: paloma81.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: hgtv.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: countryliving.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: emilyaclark.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

And here are my attempts at accessory styling in our home:

It's fun to mix different styles and patterns when grouping accessories. I also love the look of a large collection grouped together- it makes the accessories look cohesive and pulled together!

How do you group your accessories??

And the Winner Is...

2011-11-21T07:39:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday! I'm here to announce the stencil winner! Thank you so much to all who entered and the new followers of this blog! After going to the random generator, the winner is...

Lucky #17- Faith, who said:

Faith said...

Love your blog. Love to win the stencil!

Congratulations! E-Mail me at simpledwellings1@gmail.com for more information!

Thank You!!

2011-11-20T09:45:00.000-05:00

A big thanks to Beatice, from her blog The Crafty Bee for recently giving me the Versatile Blogger Award! I truly appreciate it! I really love her blog header:

Isn't it pretty?? Definitely stop by her blog- she recently finished a coffee table project that turned out great! So here is the blog award:

The rules for this award are to share some things about yourself, that people may now know:

1. I love to run! There's something therapeutic and fun about it. I love putting on the tunes and looking at the outdoor scenery. I prefer running outdoors instead of a treadmill. That has never appealed to me that much. I ran track in high school and a bit in college.

Source: amyrnelson.blogspot.com via becci on Pinterest

2. Fall is my all time favorite season. I love the leaves changing and the crisp, cool air. I also love being able to take out the fuzzy, warm sweaters.

Source: google.com via Simple on Pinterest

3. One of my best friends from college is getting married next fall. They are planning a rustic, chic wedding in a beautiful barn. I cannot wait to see it all come together!

Source: Uploaded by user via Ariel on Pinterest

4. I love the holidays and can't wait to share wonderful memories with my family! They mean the world to me and make me smile daily!

Source: etsy.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Thanks again, Beatrice, for this award! I pass this ward on to all of you wonderful bloggers out there who always share inspiring work!

And don't forget that today is the last full day for the stencil giveaway! The winner will be drawn tommorow morning!! Enter here!

Why This Works - Hilary Swank's Living Room and Fashion Friday

2011-11-18T09:27:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the series Why This Works... where I highlight a designed space and talk about why (I think) it works so well. This week's space is Hilary Swank's living room and was seen in Elle Decor. The space was designed by Mark Zeff.

via

This space has a modern, casual vibe that I love! The cool colors on the wall, pillows and dining chairs works well paired with the greenery in the room. The dark wood floors are elegant and allow the neutral rug to really pop. The dramatic lamp shades on the floor lamps give a modern, sleek and industral feel, while the drapery and plants warm up the space. There is a great balance of light and dark neutrals in this space, allowing your eye to really move around the room. The tall ceilings and oversized windows allow the natural light in, giving you an amazing view! The side and coffee tables are versatile and can easily be moved in a different spot, to allow more flow when entertaining. Overall, this space works! And lately, I have been featuring more rooms with lighter walls- could this be the direction I am going?

What are your thoughts on this space?

To see more of her gorgeous home, visit here.

And since today is also the Fashion Friday series, I wanted to show you an outfit I put together for a recent blog challenge. Anna, from her blog A Newfound Treasure posed the challenge on her blog to design an outfit around this skirt:

Stop by her blog post here to see what I came up with, as well as many other stylish outfits!

If My Blog Was A Room - Next Up - Cottage and Vine

2011-11-17T06:34:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the series If My Blog Was A Room... where I pose the challenge to think of your blog as an actual space. What would that space look like? I am so excited to have Rene here, from her design blog Cottage and Vine. Rene is a very talented interior decorator who beautifully blends traditional with modern. I am inspired by her projects and am super excited to see what her blog room would look like! Here is her pretty blog header:

And here is what she came up with-

Hello to all of Amber's readers! I am René from the Cottage & Vine blog and I am happy to be invited to be a part of this fun series. Well, I say fun, but honestly, it isn't easy to pick one room that says it all - so I picked two. Thank you Amber for this therapy session. I think I needed that ;).

via

When I first started my blog the name that came to me was Cottage & Vine. "Cottage" to me means fresh not shabby. Think equal parts of rustic and chic, a mix of old and new, in a hi-low approach. "Vine" comes from my love of gardening and the organic elements that I like to incorporate into our home. If my blog was a room, it could easily be the entry in the above image. I think it shows what my blog is all about. Painted & natural wood, organic elements, and an eclectic mix are all things that I feature on Cottage & Vine. I would like to throw a colorful rug in there somewhere though.

via

I want my blog to be a place where people can hang out and feel comfortable. At the same time, I hope that visitors are intrigued and inspired.

Thanks so much for having me today Amber!

I am definitely inspired, Rene! Thanks so much for being here. I loved hearing the story behind your blog name. And these images definitely remind me of your blog! The ikat ottomans with that mirror over the mantel is amazing! If you're not a follower already, definitely stop by Rene's blog- you'll be so happy you did!

Beautiful Watercolors

2011-11-16T08:12:00.001-05:00

Have you ever seen the beautiful artwork from Laura Trevey? Her artwork has been featured in countless shelter magazines, she is the writer behind the very popular blog, Bright, Bold and Beautiful and her watercolor paintings and prints are so versatile and beautiful! She is able to capture a flower so vividly, while also painting abstract art, homes, nature and whimsical animals. Here is a sampling of her gorgeous designs (and some of my favorites!):

Her pieces come in a range of colors for all rooms and styles. If you haven't checked out her etsy shop, go here! It will be hard for you to choose just one!

And stop by tomorrow for another installment of the Blog Room Series!

Stencil Giveaway!!

2011-11-15T07:01:00.002-05:00

Are you ready for this amazing giveaway? I am so excited to announce this today- The wonderful, amazing Royal Design Studio is sponsoring a stencil giveaway for one lucky reader! In my post yesterday, I showed my dining room, where I tried my very first stencil project. It was definitely worth it and completely changed the look and feel of the room. I'm so excited that you get a chance to try out a stencil for free, from this amazing company! Royal Design Studio will allow the lucky winner to select any of their stencils $50 and under and pay the shipping! Here is a look at their fabulous stencils:

Small Phoebes Tulip

Small Camel Bone Weave

Large Chez Sheik (The stencil I just used)

All of these gorgeous stencils above are from Royal Design Studio and could be yours!

Here's how to enter:

- Follow my blog, Simple Dwellings.

- Live in the U.S.

- Visit the stencil site here and come back to my blog, leaving a comment for which is your favorite and how you plan to use the stencil!

Additional Entries:

- Tweet about this giveaway and leave an additional comment saying you have done so. (+1)

- Mention this giveaway on facebook and leave an additional comment saying you have done so. (+1)
- Mention this giveaway on your blog and leave an additional comment saying you have done so. (+1)

You have until 6:00am EST on Monday, November 21st to enter!!
The winner will be chosen randomly and announced on Monday, November 21st around 8:00am, EST.

Good Luck!!

Look What I Did - Stencil Alert!!

2011-11-14T08:09:00.004-05:00

Happy Monday! I am so excited to share this project with you today. I just wrapped up my first stencil project on a wall in our dining room. I have wallpapered before, as you can see here, but never stenciled. I was very excited when I was contacted by Royal Design Studios to do a stencil review, where I could choose my own pattern and create the project however I choose! I was definitely ready to try it, as I have always wanted to see what a large, graphic stencil would look like on my wall! I chose a main wall in our dining room for the stencil treatment. The bones of this space are traditional, and I wanted to infuse some modern elements. So when searching for the right stencil, I know I wanted a large, bold print that read more modern in style. I chose a moroccan print called Large Chez Sheik. This print looked beautiful on the computer and even more amazing in person! Here is what the space looked like before:

Before:

Another before with newer accessories:

And now for the afters: (Get ready- there's a lot!!)

I am so appreciative to this amazing company for giving me the courage to try my hand at stenciling! Now, let's get to the details of this project and my honest opinion on stenciling! Truthfully, I am soooo glad I tried it! It was time consuming, but so worth it in the end! For me, stenciling is definitely doable for a partial wall. It gave the space a focal point that it didn't have before. For those that might not want to tackle a wall, stenciling is great for details, like dressers, tables, behind bookcases and drapery. Here are some during shots of this project:

During:

What I used for this project:

- Creamy white semi-gloss paint that I already had for the room's trim work.
- A stencil brush for the smaller patterns and a small paint brush for the larger patterns.
- Blue painter's tape. (You could also used spray adhesive, but I already had the tape and it worked great!)
- Drop cloth (just in case!)
- Small bowl for paint.
- Lots of paper towels for rubbing off extra paint on brushes.

I started at the top of the wall, so I could get my initial stencil patterns straight and lined up with the crown molding. I added the painter's tape to the edges of the stencil and began with only the small stencil brush. I wanted to make sure I wasn't using too much paint in the beginning. You can always add more paint later, but it's much harder to remove it! Once I was confident in the amount of paint I needed on the brush, I began to add the small paint brush for the larger patterned areas. This made the project move along much quicker. Just make sure you take off as much of the paint as you can, from the brush! If it bleeds through the stencil, you have a bigger problem on your hands!

When stenciling, I would try to paint from the outside of the stencil in, helping to keep the pattern in place. If I was going to move my stencil to the right for the next set, I always made sure to stencil that side first. That way, the paint would be dry when I had to overlap. The stencil comes with pre-cut dotted lines, so you are always on track for matching up your stencil. It leaves no margin for error! I left the corners and trickier areas for the end of the project, to make sure the back of the stencil was completely dry when I had to move and bend the stencil. I just took a break at that time! I only used one coat for this stencil. The shading does look darker in some areas, but that just adds to the character of the treatment. (Hopefully) it gives the wall some depth and character. With a bit of the darker wall color showing through, it almost gives the white paint a silvery effect, which shimmers when the lights are on! In time, I will do some touch ups, but they are very minimal and can be done at some point! Overall, it was pretty easy to use!

Thanks so much to Royal Design Studios for their generous idea! Their site also has very helpful tips for your stencil projects! And stay tuned... there will be a chance for you to win your very own stencil soon!

I'm linking this up to the wonderful blog, Savvy Southern Style, for her Wow Us Wednesdays!

Why This Works

2011-11-11T10:11:00.002-05:00

Happy Friday and welcome to the series Why This Works... where I highlight a designed space and discuss why I think it's amazing! Today's living room space is worldly, modern, eclectic and traditional. It's a great blend of some of my favorite styles. Enjoy!

Source: casatreschic.blogspot.com via Simple on Pinterest

The white walls give a neutral backdrop, allowing the unique blend of furniture and accessories to stand out. This mix of traditional and modern seating give this room a designed over time look and makes the space feel eclectic and unique to the homeowners. I think the choices in seating are very creative, pairing this large, leather chesterfield sofa with a mid century modern occasional chair. The small sofa has clean, modern lines and is covered in white, allowing the pillows and rustic side tables to take center stage. The mix of modern with rustic is one of my favorite pairings, and is done so well in this room. The dramatic world map art on the wall and globe accessories give the space a sense of history, charm and warmth, while the bold, arched floor lamp is a nod to modern design. The space also has a whimsical feel, with the vingettes behind the white sofa and to the right of the image, allowing you to feel relaxed and not make the space feel contrived. The two area rugs in the room give the space a layered look and warms up the hard surface flooring. The coffee table is large and works well paired with the dramatic seating in the space. The scale of the table flows well with entertaining, making it easy for people to find a space for their drink! Overall, this space works!

What are your thoughts???

Lauren Liess Textiles!

2011-11-10T09:46:00.001-05:00

I have been following Lauren's blog, Pure Style Home since I started my own blog. I have always loved her sense of style and appreciation for decorating with natural materials. I am so excited to see that she has opened her own textiles line and is sponsoring a huge giveaway on her blog! 2 lucky winners will receive 2 yards of fabric from her new line. The best part of it, is that you get to choose the fabric design you want to win! Here are some of my favorites:

Happikat in Fog

Wild Chicory in Olive

Live Paisley in Antique Beige

Head on over to her shop to view all of the gorgeous fabrics! And don't forget to enter the giveaway here!

If My Blog Was A Room - Next Up - The Enchanted Home

2011-11-09T07:40:00.001-05:00

Happy Wednesday and welcome to the series If My Blog Was A Room... where I pose the challenge to think of your blog as an actual space. What would that space look like? I am so excited to have Tina here, from her design blog The Enchanted Home. Her beautiful blog is enchanting, elegant and full of gorgeous interiors. When you visit her blog, you definitely stay a while! Here is her pretty blog header:

Just lovely! And here is what she came up with-

Hi there! I was so excited and terribly flattered when Amber asked me to be a part of this terrific series "If my blog were a room". Well, I got a little carried away and couldn't just stop at one room! I knew this would be fun and when asked me to participate I was only too happy to oblige.

I immediately knew how I would want my rooms to look if my blog were an actual room or house. To fully convey the vibe, I have included a mini house.....just a few key rooms and elements that really resonate with me. A few words to describe each sets the tone so welcome to the mini house at "The Enchanted Home".........

Elegant, timeless and elegant in my living room.....as in a large room with high ceilings, an old antique rug, a mix of furniture both old and new, lots of blue and white, silk panels trimmed with decadent trimmings, softly lit lamps and sconces

Soft and serene in my master bedroom and dressing room/office...as in the palest blue/gray on the walls, sumptuous white bedding as soft as a feather with monogrammed pillows, a beautiful bench, a pair of cozy French club chairs and a delicate chandelier to cast a warm glow over the room

Elegant and European feeling in

my kitchen....with reclaimed beams, stone floors, great lanterns, and softly glazed cabinetry, topped with yummy white marble and of course a bevy of copper pots!

Welcoming and warm in my mudroom.....with rich warm woods and a golden hued color palette topped with a great lantern on old stone floors

Dreamy and beautiful in my dining room.......with stunning chinoiserie paper, beautiful silk drapery panels and a gorgeous antique Persian rug, lit by the soft glow of a chandelier and sconces

Inviting and old world for my front entrance....with lots of climbing ivy, beautiful lanterns gracing the brick and limestone, a perfect pair of planters with boxwoods and tons of blooms all in white, after all this is "The Enchanted Home"!!

Toasty and welcoming in my family room.... rich golden tones with touches of blues and blue and white pottery, soaring ceilings, luscious overstuffed sofas, beautiful antique pillows and gorgeous rich woodworking

Dreamy and cloud like in my guest room...with soft colors, the coziest bedding, a roaring fire, a comfy chair and ottoman and a vaulted ceiling

Serene and peaceful for my outside spaces....as in stone patios, abundant planters overflowing with gorgeous flowers and ample seating with comfortable cushions, and while you are at it..lets throw in an outdoor pizza oven!

Magical and dreamy in my pool gazebo.... in this spectacular dreamy setting complete with charming gazebo illuminated at night for a drink by the pool (when dreaming you might as well dream big)!

Hope you enjoyed it, thanks for stopping by and again thank you Amber for having me aboard!

Thanks so much for being here, Tina! This would make a stunning home and reminds me very much of your blog! The bedrooms and family room are my favorite spaces. And I could definitely relax by the pool in that outdoor space!

And make sure to stop by Tina's blog to see more fabulous design and her very own beautiful home!

Very Cheap Art!!

2011-11-07T09:26:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday! I wanted to share with all of you, the amazing deal I recently scored at Target! For the best sales and clearance items, I have noticed that it's best to check out retailers toward the middle of the week. I have found such great deals lately, and I'm wondering if it's just my luck that I'm getting to these stores immediately after the clearance stickers are added. How else would they still be on the shelf?? Maybe it's crazy luck, or maybe I will be scouting out stores every Tuesday and Wednesday from now on! I found modern canvas art for only $6.25 each! Our dining room is fairly traditional, so I wanted to add some modern elements to the space. With the light fixture and now the new art, I am on my way to a traditional-modern blend!

Here's what the wall looked like before:

And after:

I think the new art gives the space a more modern look. And here's a little hint about this space- the canvas wall doesn't look like that anymore! I did something major to that wall! More on that soon...

Fashion Friday and a Guest Post

2011-11-04T08:46:00.001-04:00

Happy Weekend and welcome to Fashion Friday... where I discuss my other design love! Yesterday's dining room was modern, traditional and whimsical! I am very drawn to that combination! With clothing, I love to mix it up but am always drawn to classic designs. Here are some wonderful classics to swoon over today...

Source: everythingfab.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: thedecorista.tumblr.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: zara.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: imdb.com via Simple on Pinterest

Source: lylaandblu.com via Simple on Pinterest

To me, images 1 and 4 are a modern take on traditional, which reminds me very much of yesterday's room.

In Fashion, are you drawn to trendy, classic or both??

And today, I am over at Laura's wonderful blog, Bright, Bold and Beautiful, sharing what I am thankful for. Stop by and check it out here!

Why This Works

2011-11-03T08:32:00.000-04:00

Happy Thursday and welcome to the series Why This Works... where I highlight a designed space and talk about why I love it so much! I found today's dining room from pinterest and fell in love. This space was decorated by Tobi Fairley and was also seen in House Beautiful.

Source: google.com via Simple on Pinterest

This space is so chic, fun, whimsical and just lovely! The design combines modern with traditional so well and I truly appreciate the attention to detail and subtle pops of color. The room's walls and drapery are a soothing neutral, which allows the gorgeous chandelier, beautiful painted floors and bowl of fruit to really pop in the space! The traditional dining table was given a modern twist by painting it two different colors and adding a subtle painted detail to the legs. The table is accessorized with a bowl of fruit in a simple, but beautiful white bowl, giving the room a casual touch. The table is surrounded by four gorgeous chairs, with whimsical claw detail on the bottom and a glossy white paint on the legs. The upholstery fabric on the chairs is a nice graphic touch and works well paired with the creamy walls and drapery. The chandelier is one of the showstoppers in the room, drawing your eye up and giving the space the perfect pop of color. The next showstopper for me are the gorgeous painted floors! The striped detailing is a traditional nod to the room and made more modern with its playful choice in color. Overall, this space works! (I just wish I could see more of the space- it's that amazing!) To see more of this beautiful home that Tobi decorated, visit here.

What are your thoughts??

If My Blog Was A Room - Next Up - Lucite and Lavender

2011-11-02T09:53:00.000-04:00

Happy Wednesday and welcome to the series If My Blog Was A Room... where I pose the challenge to think of your blog as an actual space. What would that space look like? This week, I am so excited to have Emily here, from her design blog Lucite and Lavender. Emily is a very talented interior designer and opened her own business, em designs a few years ago. Just the name of her blog sounds chic to me!

Here is her pretty blog header:

And here is the amazingness that she came up with-

I wanted my blog to represent two sides of who I am and what I like. I chose the words lucite + lavender due to the gentle juxtaposition of the two. Lucite being man-made, and lavender being organic. Lucite is a hard man-made material. It's simple & it's timeless- it was great in the 60's and it's great now. Living in a big city, San Francisco, I'm surrounded by an active environment full of people, buildings, movement & creativity. I love city life but I also love nature. Which is why I also selected the word Lavender. It's one of my favorite scents, and I am very drawn to the hill sides of Sonoma county which are full of lavender! The views are breathtaking and I find that I need the solace of nature to revive me after days in the city.
I design with the same intention, to create spaces that are timeless and reflective of all sides of my personality and my clients.
I hope my blog is as sophisticated & tasteful I intend it to be. It's growing as I do, Enjoy! I hope you stay awhile!

WOW! Thanks so much for being here today, Emily! I love what you came up with and it reminds me very much of your blog. The colors are calm, soothing and very chic! Definitely stop by Emily's blog- you'll be happy you did! And to see the source list for this gorgeous room, go here.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-30T20:48:00.000-04:00

Here's to a great and spooky halloween! It's such a fun holiday... why not have fun with your pumpkin decor? Here's one of my favorite images of painted pumpkins, via pinterest:

Source: google.com via Simple on Pinterest

And here is our version of painted pumpkins, along with some other fall decor:

For the DIY tutorial on the pumpkin topiaries, go here.

Happy Halloween!!

Fashion Friday - Prepster Chic

2011-10-28T09:40:00.000-04:00

Happy Weekend and welcome to Fashion Friday... where I discuss my other design love! Today's post is devoted to classic prints that are making their comeback. In magazines and in other blogs like Holly's, I have noticed some talk about traditional prints like plaids, houndstooth, checks and stripes coming back in fashion! They are the timeless prints that look great both in fashion and interior designs. Although I think they are classics, it's still great to see them back in the design forefront! So this fashion post will be devoted to all things preppy!

Source: None via Simple on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Simple on Pinterest

Source: None via Simple on Pinterest

What are your thoughts on this style??

Why This Works

2011-10-27T09:19:00.001-04:00

Happy Thursday and welcome to the series Why This Works... where I highlight a designed space and talk about why I think it's perfection. This living room is rustic, chic and appeals to my love of casual comfort!

Source: None via Simple on Pinterest

The color used in this space is the perfect amount for me- I love that the walls are a soft white, allowing beautiful accessory fabrics to take the center stage. Look at the fabric on that ottoman! It is the showstopper for me in this room! It is large in scale, which helps make the space feel more grand and serves its purpose of being both gorgeous and functional. I love seeing some pillows tucked underneath, ready to be pulled out when more guests arrive. The brown, armless occasional chairs are chic and the slight touch of gold works so well with the dramatic mirror over the fireplace. The rustic columns are stately and beautiful and work well paired against the modern seating. The overall layout of the seating makes for great conversation and gives a casual, yet balanced feel. The roll up bamboo shades on the windows gives the right amount of texture and lets the sun shine in, so you can see the beautiful view outside. The slight touches of black in the space, with the sconces, lampshades and ottoman legs grounds the room and adds a bit of glam. Overall, this space works!

What are your thoughts??

If My Blog Was A Room - Next Up - Recently

2011-10-26T07:44:00.000-04:00

Happy Wednesday and welcome the series, if My Blog Was A Room... where I pose the challenge to think of your blog as an actual space. What would that space look like? I am so excited to have Emily here, from her blog Recently. Emily's blog is amazing- she has finished some gorgeous DIY projects (the bookcase project is my favorite) and has become a new blog buddy! I love what she came up with for this series- I'm pretty blown away by her skills!

Here is her pretty blog header:

And here is what she came up with!

Hi everyone! I'm Emily from Recently, and I must say, I'm incredibly happy that Amber asked me to be a part of her If My Blog Was a Room series. Not only because Amber is such a sweetheart and Simple Dwellings is one of my favorites, but also because it's been the perfect exercise to help me shape my vision and goals for my blog.
I hope each of you will enjoy what I came up with as much as I enjoyed creating it!

image via awesome space

Doesn't this room make you want to crawl in and never leave? I could spend all day in a space like that, and I hope those who visit feel the same about my blog!

image via rue magazine

The room above is one of those "me" kind of rooms. It's full of texture and life, but oozes comfort and warmth. I strive for Recently to echo all of those things!

image via angie hranowsky design studio

Colorful, artistic, and unusual elements in a room always speak to me, and I love to bring those things into play on my blog. Oh, and it's fitting that this room involves a kiddo, because you'll see a lot of those (mine to be exact) on Recently as well!

image via absolutely beautiful things

Last but not least, every room needs the final touches. You know, those bits and pieces that bring it up a notch, making it delightful and invigorating?

It's always my hope that Recently's visitors will find those extra smidges of goodness that keep them returning over and over again.

Amber, I've loved turning Recently into a room! Thank you so much for having me!

Thanks so much for being here, Emily! I love what you came up with- it reminds me so much of your blog! Definitely stop by Emily's blog and stay a while!

After your visit to Emily's gorgeous blog, stop by Mandi's blog, Interior Design Musings. I'm guest posting over there today, sharing my Top 10 Favorites in Design! See you there!