Just An Amatuer Decorator
I like to decorate! It's that simple. I didn't go to school for it but feel I have a fairly decent grasp on the ideas of designs and colors, especially in relation to contemporary design. At least I do in reference to my own tastes! I want to share my simple design tricks in hopes that others can share theirs in return! With a new house coming at the end of July, I plan to document my decorating endeavors. My budget is small as most of the money is going into the house, so the key to this will be getting creative with common place items. And I would imagine lots of paint as well. Stay tuned...
Project Beginning - Stay Tuned
Brand New Apartment Needs Decorator's Touch - On A Budget
Alas, a new project has begun! As my new home approaches I can hardly wait to get my hands on the blank canvas. I have so many ideas that my budget can't quite keep up with my creativity. That being the case the real trick will be creativity. Check back often for status updates and little tricks I find along the way. There is a plethora of stores that offer great deals, websites that offer even better deals, and just plain easy tricks that don't cost a thing! Check back soon for the first pictures and updates, as I show you how to transform a blank canvas into a masterpiece (and not spend much money!)
Chiasso - A Contemporary Paradise!
Being an avid shopper and constant decorator, I am always on the look-out for stores that are consistent with my taste in decor and easy on my budget. I fell in LOVE with this website, Chiasso.com. Although there are some items that are on the more expensive end, there are reasonably priced items as well and they have a good sale section. PLUS, if you live in the Chicago area, where they are based, you can go to their warehouse sales where you can receive 40-80% off! Definitely makes it worth a trip to Chicago! I purchased black wave picture frames from them not too long ago. I took simple scrapbooking paper to fill in the middle. Scrapbooking paper is cheap and comes in a million and one designs. The black frames with red inserts look nice but appear to be lacking. My plan is to take simple (read: cheap!) red paint and paint squares on the wall behind the picture frames. Great way to make them pop and use bright colors without inundating the room. Picture to follow...
Spruce Up That Table
Fruit bowls can be a great way to update a table, but if you are anything like me I can't eat the fruit fast enough and I end up throwing it away. I personally think that plastic fruit looks, well, plastic, so I took another approach. I purchased this fruit bowl from Chiasso.com, and then bought Christmas ornaments after Christmas when they went 75% off. I spent about $3 on the balls, and when placed correctly in the fruit bowl you would never know the difference.Hint: After Christmas sales are wonderful. Extra wrapping paper makes great wall hangings (see below) and ornaments can be used in a variety of vases or baskets.
Contemporary Design - A Beginner's Store Guide
I am sure there exist a million stores that offer similar contemporary items, but I have assembled a small list of the few, but important, for someone looking for just the right piece. Be on the look out for coupons and sale items...they are a great way to build your collection without breaking the bank!
- Chiasso
- Chiasso - My favorite, what can I say?
- West Elm
- This is a great site, especially for color schemes pertaining to brown, blue, and orange. A variety of items that prices that won't make you cry.
- Eurway
- I found this site while looking for an inexpensive side table. I found the perfect table with stainless steel legs and a frosted glass top, but I digress...There is some great stuff here, but careful as some can get pricey. Definitely worth checking out!
- Scandinavian Designs
- Great danish modern and comtemporary furniture! My entire bedroom set is from there and I absolutely love it. Plus I was able to get 5 pieces without spending a fortune. The only downside? You can't order online so check for a store near you.
- IKEA
- There could not be such a list without mention of IKEA. Affordable, extensive, it has everything you would want and more. My only regret in life (OK, maybe not my only regret but one of them...) is never having been to an IKEA. One day...
Color Palate
Starting with simple inspiration
You should never shut your eyes as you never may know what exactly may inspire you. I could be the colors of the sunset or the mountains after a light snowfall. My inspiration for my rooms may not be as poetic, but it certainly stems from a place I would not necessarily have thought to look. Below I have outlined the color schemes for the various rooms. These will be my starting points and building blocks going forward. Paint in an inexpensive and easy way to change the look of a room. I regularly use Home Depot or Lowe's.
Room: Family Room and Dining Room
Inspiration: Martini Glass
Colors: Red, Tan, Black
Room: Kitchen
Inspiration: Martini Glass
Colors: Red, Black
Room: Loft
Inspiration: Nature
Colors: Olive Green
Room: Bedroom #1
Inspiration: Beautiful Quilt
Colors: Gray, Blue-Gray
That is about as far as I have come...pictures will come soon, I promise!
Room: Family Room and Dining Room
Inspiration: Martini Glass
Colors: Red, Tan, Black
Room: Kitchen
Inspiration: Martini Glass
Colors: Red, Black
Room: Loft
Inspiration: Nature
Colors: Olive Green
Room: Bedroom #1
Inspiration: Beautiful Quilt
Colors: Gray, Blue-Gray
That is about as far as I have come...pictures will come soon, I promise!
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Home Decorating
Check out this great video on home decorating. Very informative!
Outlets Offer Ideas For Home Decorating
Jennifer Sculatti from the Premium Outlets in Vacaville offers ideas for home decorating.
Runtime: 2:50
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