The Anatomy of a Home Office–5 Essentials

As someone who works from home, having a home office that functions well and inspires me is really important .  I’ve made a few changes to my office space and have used one of my favorite office spaces as my inspiration.

  I love that this space is compact but has all the style and function that a larger office space would have.  I love the texture that the baskets add that a few decorative accessories have been added to make the place feel more connected to the home.  So beautiful!

 

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While my office space is not everything I want it to be, it does encompass the FIVE THINGS I think every home office needs to be both pretty and practical.

 

1. AMPLE WORK SURFACE–To make work easy and efficient it is always nice to have a desk surface that allows enough room for your computer and daily work papers.  Whether you like wood or a glass, always get the largest desk that will comfortably fit in your office space.
    
   

2.  A BEATIFUL LAMP–Even it you have over head lighting, most personal work areas can benefit from direct task lighting.  To give your work area a personal feel opt for a stylish tabletop lamp instead of a traditional desk lamp.  And, a decorative lampshade will add even more charm.

I love this lamp not only because of the color but also because of the visual texture it adds.

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3.  PRETTY ORGANIZATION–When it comes to adding pieces to your desktop for things like paperclips, rubber bands and notes, look beyond the office supply aisle at the store.  Coffee mugs, narrow trays, decorative bowls, antique salad and coffee saucers and vases make great tool storage containers!

Develop a color story with your accessories to set the tone of your work space.

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See Jane Work is one of my favorite on-line resources for pretty office accessories.  this is just a sampling of the cool and functional stuff the have to offer.

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I love these label holders!

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 and these pencil cups…

See Jane Work Pencil Cups–$10.00

4.  BOOKSHELVES–Bookshelves are a necessity in just about every office space.  While the main purpose of bookshelves is to hold and store paperwork, books and work materials, I also think it is critical to incorporate a few decorative accessories into your shelves to give your office space a comfortable feel. 

Add a plant or decorative vase, a picture frame or two or maybe a small piece of artwork. 

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5.  PRETTY STORAGE–If you are anything like me, I like to concile as much of my work materials as possible.  Pretty boxes, baskets and bins are the perfect storage option.  Buy pretty boxes like these or cover your own low-cost cardboard boxes with decorative scrapbook paper or fabric!

via See Jane Work

 

 

White cardboard file boxes for Ikea–$1.99 for a set of 5!

 

And, no chic office would be complete without one or two DECORATIVE CLIPBOARDS! 

A great selection of decorative clipboards is available for sale in the ConfettiStyleDesigns shop and new patterns will be available by the end of the week.

Letter Size–$15.00

Journal Size–$11.00

 

Creating a home office space that has style and allows you to work efficiently is not a hard task.  Make your functionally items as decorative as possible and add some personality by incorporating a few stylish and unexpected decorative elements.

 

Is your home office all you want it to be?  What one thing are you looking to change?

 

 

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PB Teen–Not Just for Teenagers!

I hope you had a great weekend.  I was able to get a little thrift shopping in but was slowed down by the pinched nerve in my neck with is causing numbness in my right (writing, do-everything) hand!  I start physical therapy this week so I’m hoping that will solve the issue!  Wish me luck!

One of the other things I did this weekend was catch up on some magazine reading and while flipping through the latest issue of House Beautiful,  a PBTeen lampshade caught my eye.  It intrigued me enough that I immediately headed over the PBTeen website to see what other things they had to offer.

After spending some time on their site, I was amazed at how many cool things they had that were not only appropriate for a teenager, but also great for someone like me who is about to celebrate her 21st wedding anniversary this week! 

Here’s what caught my attention:

Wood and Wire Wall Basket–Great for storing magazines or paperwork in the office.  I love the industrial feel it has and the numbers give it some added style.  $99.00

Scroll Border Mirror–This would look great as part of wall gallery wall display.  I love the slightly distressed finish and the beautiful teal color!  $98.99 On Sale.

Bone Frames–So great looking.  The ethnic patterns and color combinations are so on trend right now.  What a great way to add a splash of pattern and color to a tabletop vignette.  $24.99 to $28.99 On Sale.

Braided Lampshade–This is a super chic lampshade for a teen store.  I love the rope trim detail!  $38.99 On Sale.  I just might have to pick one of these up!

Crystal Teardrop Chandelier–Stunning!  A great piece over a bathtub, vanity or in your home office.  $109.00 On Sale!

Shower Curtains–Loving their collection of stylish shower curtains.  $38.99 to 69.50

 

Kaleidoscope Kilim Rug–Love, Love, Love the colors, pattern and texture.  $169.00 to $699.00

 

Furlicious Desk Chair–Ok, I just lost it when I saw this chair.  So fabulous and a great buy at only $299.00.  This baby may end up on my Christmas List!

The Ooh La La Swivel Chair was my other favorite. How great would this look in a girly office or craft space.  $238.99 (for lime green) $349.00 for other colors!

 

So I know I’ve got you ready to hop in your car and head to the closet PB Teen store. 

First one there wins! 

Happy Shopping!

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6 Ways to Organzie Your Scarves

Now that the weather has reached temps that make wearing a summer scarf not only unnecessary but outright ridiculous, I’ve been looking for ways to store my ever-growing scarf collection. 

I’m the type of person that needs and wants to see my accessories vs  have then hidden in drawers so that will dictate what storage method I end up doing.  I’ve come across SIX ways to store scarves and thought I’d share them with you.

• A Plastic Shoe Organizer–Not only can you store lots of scarves but they will surely stay neat and tidy with this system.

• Hangers–This is an old school organizing method but one that works.  While you can surely see all your scarves with this method, I don’t know if I want to give up closet space for my scarves!

 

{p.s.  clear plastic shower curtain rings allow you to pull this look off!}

• Bathroom Hardware–The idea of using wall mounted TP holders and towel bars is pretty clever but might take up too much precious wall space.

• Drawer Bins–I love the look of this storage technique but since I like to see my scarves, I don’t know if it would work.  But, I’m considering!

{wrapping your scarves around small pieces of cardboard or foam core will keep your scarves uniform}

• Over The Door Hook–I really like the idea of using up space that is often neglected to store my scarves.  This is the winner for me!

• Ladders–If you happen to have an old ladder hanging around, it too can make a great storage and display space for your scarves. 

Here’s a peek at one of three over-the-door hook scarf racks I have going on!

Next up, organizing them by color!

 

 

So, how do you organize and store your scarves??

 

all images via Pinterest

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The Anatomy of Accessorizing a Bathroom–10 Tips

 While it’s fun to decorate the main living areas of someones home, I really enjoy decorating those often neglected areas such as bathrooms.   I love challenging  my creativity to add style and function to a bathroom and most of all I love turning a bathroom into a space with style!

When it comes to decorating a bathroom I use many of the same design techniques as I do with decorating a living room or home office.  I use color as the foundation of the space; I accessorize with items that will add personality to the space; I use texture and pattern to add visual interest and I make sure the space has a point of view and design theme.

If you’re challenged with what to do with your bathroom,  follow my design tips to get your bathroom looking great!

 

•  Think of your Vanity as a tabletop surface.

When it comes to decorating a bathroom vanity, think of it in the same way you would the top of a console table or side table. 

Decorate with glass jars and decorative containers that will allow you to keep daily use items close at hand and then arrange them in a stylish way.  A beautiful tray in silver or glass is ideal for holding glass jar, perfume or pill boxes. 

Use jars in different heights to add visual interest and add a plant or small floral arrangement for softness.

Also,  make sure to use hand soap that comes in a pretty bottle or transfer it to a decorative dispenser which you can find at HomeGoods, TJMaxx or Marshals.

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• Pay Attention to the Details

Little things like decorative soaps, a crystal chandelier, flowers or chic hangers are all a great way to add style to your bathroom.

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•   Add Shelving that adds Style and Storage

A majority of bathrooms lack adequate storage space.  Look around your bathroom and see where you can add open shelving that allows you to display pretties and functional items.

Paint the shelves to add a little color and use decorative brackets for added style. 

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I love using baskets for storage in the bathroom, both wire and wicker. 

This image is a great example of how storage and accessories can be added to a bathroom.    The space over the toilet is often left empty and is ideal for open shelving.

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Use your open shelving to display artwork in addition to bathroom essentials.

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•  Accessorize the Unexpected Areas

Nine times out of ten, the back of the commode is left unattended.  Adding a decorative touch to this area goes a long way in adding style to your bathroom.

Use a tray to hold toiletries, extra tissue rolls or room spray and make sure to add rubber bumpers to the bottom of the tray so it won’t slide around.

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•  Dress up your Tub

Decorative shower curtains are a quick and easy way to style your bathroom. 

I love this look where two panels are used instead of a single, creating a frame for the tub.

If you can’t find a shower curtain you love, use drapery panels instead.

  A clear liner can be added behind the panels to keep them dry and just like curtains in your home, hang your shower curtain as high as possible to give the bathroom visual height.

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Here’s a great tutorial from SAS Interiors on turning a curtain panel into a shower curtain.

Don’t forget the tub surround. 

The ledge of the tub is a great place to display decorative elements that will enhance your bathing experience and add ambience to your bathroom.

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•  Think of Paint as an Accessory

Paint is always the easiest and cheapest way to change the look and feel of a space, even bathrooms.

Add color to your walls….

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or be bold and add color to your floors!

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• Use Rugs to add Style below the Eye

Rugs are necessary in a bathroom so why not use one that is decorative and exciting. 

Opt for one larger rug if possible instead of a bunch of smaller rugs scattered around the room. 

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•  Furniture is Fabulous in a bathroom

If space allows, go bold and add a piece of furniture to your bathroom space.  Painted furniture will hold up fine in most bathrooms but if your bathroom doesn’t have a great exhaust system, use outdoor paint which will hold up to in humidity and moisture.

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• Be Creative with the Lighting

Nothing drowns out the style of a bathroom more than a standard grade bathroom fixture.  Opt for a crystal chandelier or something with color and whimsy to bring your bathroom to life.

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•  Be Creative with Your Storage

Bathrooms are a great place to be a bit adventurous. 

Use hooks in a creative way, up cycle vintage pieces and make your storage a central part of your bathroom decor.

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I love this application of baskets hung on metal towel rods!

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When decorating your home, don’t leave your bathroom on the to-do.  With just a few decorative touches you can turn your bathroom into a space that really stands out.

 

Have a design challenge you’d like help tackling?  Check out my in-home design service, my Door-to-Door e-design service or email me for a quote!

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Organizing with Kitchen Accessories

I consider myself pretty creative and can think of multiple ways to use ordinary things beside their intended use.  After discovering Pinterest and spending countless hours accumulating over 7,700 pins to date, I recognize that there are some incredibly creative people in this world that take the ideas of using things in new ways to a whole new level. 

 Today I thought I’d share more of the  creative organizing  ideas I’ve found on Pinterest.  All of these ideas are quick to implement, inexpensive and all involve the use of ordinary kitchen accessories. 

 

familyhandyman.com via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

MUFFIN TINS–How clever is this to use muffin tins to store nails, screws and all those bits and baubles in the garage!

scrapbooksetc.com via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

WINE BOTTLE HOLDER–Although I’m not a big wine drinker, I somehow have accumulated several wine racks.  This is a super idea for storing loose sheets of wrapping and tissue paper.

crate.typepad.com via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

COOKIE SHEETS–The perfect magnet baord…and I love the idea of painting them to  match your decor.

craftystorage.blogspot.com via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

SALT & PEPPER HOLDERS–I am forever looking for ways to store my craft glitter and sprinkles and this would certainly solve the problem.  So clever!

athomekimvallee.com via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

LOAF PANS–Hanging loaf pans…a bit industrial and totally practical.  I love this idea to hold fruit and veggies and think it would also be great in a bathroom closet to hold hair brushes and accessories.

bhg.com via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

PAPER TOWEL HOLDER–Simply Brilliant!   Beats rummaging through drawers to find all those cookie cutters (which I love to collect but never use).

realsimple.com via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

PAPER TOWEL HOLDER–I have too many ribbons to use this idea for all my spools but, I love it for holding the ribbons I’m currently working with or use a lot.

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original source unknown via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

PAPER TOWEL HOLDER–So this is my favorite organizing idea using a paper towel holder!  What a great way to store scrapbook paper, stickers and labels.  I’ll be putting this idea in place this weekend.

storageandglee.blogspot.com via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

TOWEL BARS & TP HOLDERS–Even though the TP holder does not fall into the kitchen accessory category, this is a great idea for storing and organizing scarves and belts.  The beauty is that these bars can be hung just about anywhere.

bhg.com via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

PAPER TOWEL HOLDER–Pretty cool idea for organizing and displaying jewelry.  Several of these hung together would look awesome.

3.bp.blogspot.com via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

UTENSIL CADDY–I’ve shown this idea before in this post, but since it’s one of my favorite ”out of the box” organizing idea I thought I’d share it again!  The next time you’re in GW look for these caddies, ’cause I see them there all the time and they cost little to nothing.

bhg.com via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

SILVERWARE CADDY–I see these types of caddies at Homegoods on a regular basis and never really thought about putting them to use to hold office supplies.  Stylish and practical.

media-cache8.pinterest.com via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

SPICE JARS–This idea wins the award for most creative organizing idea to hold the pesky itty bitty craft supplies.  I love that you can see each item and that this entire unit doesn’t take up much space.  This idea would be pretty cool to hold buttons for someone who sews a lot too!

bhg.com via ConfettiStyle on Pinterest

PASTRY STAND–Another chic way to organizing and store jewelry without taking up a lot of space.  I’d also use this idea in a bathroom to hold soaps and small toiletries.

 

So there you have it, some really great ideas for organizing in style!  I hope you were inspired to get organized in a stylish way.

 Have a great day!

To see more amazing organizing ideas, check out my Organization Board on Pinterest.

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5 Organizing Ideas I’m Loving

I’ve done a bit of organizing and de-cluttering around my place lately and am working to create storage that is pretty to look at and easy to manage.  

I’m looking for ways to maximize every square inch of closet storage and bring some order to my kitchen cabinets.  Of course I turned to Pinterest for some organizing inspiration and found 5 really easy and stylish ways to bring some order to the chaos. 

• I love the idea of hanging bars on the inside of a closet door, creating more storage for rarely used items or in my case for my ever-expanding handbag “collection”.

 

• I use a variety of storage containers in my bathroom linen closets, but love the idea of making them a bit more decorative with ribbons and tags.  Tags are very practical for storage in a guest bathroom, letting your guest know where needed toiletries are kept.

 

• Not only do I love this idea for storing measuring cups, making them readily accessible, but the conversion chart is brilliant.  No more flipping through cookbooks trying to find out how many ounces are in a pint.

• Lid organization is one of my biggest kitchen storage issues.  Currently they are all stacked on top of each other, but this idea of bars on the door gives me hope.

• As a self-proclaimed gift wrap hoarder, I’ve tried plastic garbage bins and those under-the-bed plastic storage bins and nothing has really worked well.  I’m really liking this idea of a metal container on wheels.  Not only can you see the paper easily, but moving the bin around would be a breeze.

Aren’t these ideas great?  They are all pretty easy to implement and really elevate everyday organizing to a new level.

 

Since I’m in the middle of my organizing binge, I can’t show you the finished results of the spaces I’ve been working on, but I will show you a few highlights.

 

My dollar store shoe bins are getting prettied with decorative photo tags.

I’m putting Command Hooks to work on the inside of closet doors to hold handbags.

And, I’m adding decorative storage bins to my closet and laundry area.

 

I’ll show you the finished areas once they are all done.  Stay tuned!

 

Do you have any good organizing tips?  Please do share.

 

 

 

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Chez Renee–Making Organizing Fun

I love for my work and home environment to be organized and at the same time stylish.  One of my go to sources for unique items to organize and decorate with is Chez Renee. 

Chez Renee is an online boutique filled with vintage and reproduction items.  Each piece is selected by Renee and Connie, a mother, daughter duo with the idea to help you turn your house into a unique and personal style statement!

Here are a few of my favorite items:

Rotating Counter Carousel  $156.00.  While a bit on the expensive side, I love the versatility of this item for holding craft supplies or office supplies like paperclips or push pins.

Metal Chalk Boards– $3.00-$12.00.  What a stylish and functional way to label storage baskets in a play room, laundry area or linen closet.  I can think of a thousand ways I’d use these darling chalkboards!

Set of 2 Glass Jars–$136.00.  Want to add a little style to your kitchen…how about this awesome jars.  I’d use them to hold tea bags, granola bars or packets of oatmeal.  So cute!

 

Wire Letter Holder–$70.00.  Baskets of any shape and size are great for organizing your home.  This one would be perfect hung above the commode to store extra TP rolls, towels or toiletries or next to your desk to hold office papers or stationary.

Recycled Cubby Box–$68.00.  I’m envisioning gift tags, ribbon scraps, tape, scissors, address labels….the perfect gift wrap accessory storage box!

Wire Magazine Holder–$70.00.  Magazines are an obvious choice but how about using this basket to store wrapping paper rolls, towels next to the pool or firewood at the hearth.  This basket just might be the perfect storage solution for a multitude of organizing sins!

 

So, don’t these items make the idea of organizing your home or office seem like more fun than work? If you could choose just one item, which would it be????

 

 To check out their entire selection of home decor, gift, party and personal accessories head on over to the Chez Renee website, here!

all images via Chez Renee

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Collections On Display

One of the most challenging task that I come across when decorating a space is how to deal with a collection that a client my have. This design dilemma comes into play with everyday decor and is also something that  I often deal with when decorating a home during the Christmas season.   

So, today I thought I’d share a few tips and techniques on Decorating With Collections, so that your treasured possessions will enhance your decor instead of being just a bunch of stuff.

 

COLLECTIONS ARE A GREAT WAY TO ADD IMPACT TO A SPACE!  Displaying a collection on a focus wall or on a key piece of furniture will not only provide a visual impact within your decor, but your collection, whatever it is, will feel important and personal.

There are several collections being displayed prominently in this photo.  The wall of mirrors adds interest, texture and dimension along that long staircase wall, and the collection of pottery in the hutch draws your eye down into the room.  I love that all the “collected” elements in this space all have the same feeling and are in the same color family.

A fun way to create storage, display a collection and make an impact!

Collections don’t have to be all the same type of item, they can be a grouping of items that have the same feel, purpose and styling.  Here a collection of vintage and rustic decorative and serving pieces is beautifully displayed in this cabinet. 

Long hallway walls are a great place to display a collection.  Limit the number of items so that each piece stands out and the space doesn’t become overwhelming.

I love to see a collection displayed on a tabletop.  These dog reinforce the artwork on the wall and add a whimsical touch to the traditional decor.

  

KEEP COLLECTION DISPLAYS ORGANIZED AND FOCUSED!  This is one of the most important things you can do when displaying a collection.  You want the items in your collection to stand out and not look like a jumbled mess. 

 

Framing a collection is a great way to unify different styles and colors of a similar item and give it impact.  And remember, for more eclectic decor, the frame styles don’t all have to be the same, just make sure they are the same color to create a sense of unity.

 Here’s another great example of several collections displayed together. This works because the color story is narrow and similar objects are kept together, giving each vignette impact and importance.  Also notice how the size of items vary throughout the bookcase, giving the entire arrangement depth and dimension. 

More mirrors on display. All silver frames in the top image, antique mirrors in the middle and round shapes below. 

 

ARRANGE COLLECTIONS IN AN ARTFUL WAY–BE CREATIVE!  Don’t think museum display when you’re thinking about how to display your collection.  Think outside the box and showcase the things you love in a creative way.

Typewriters displayed in a unique fashion!

Maybe you have a collection of found objects.  Display then in a unique container that allows each piece to stand out but keeps the collection in tact.

Glass jars are one of my favorite ways to display a collection of smaller items.  I adore this collection of buttons in a vintage jar and the collection of antique forks is beautiful in its glass cylinder.

So cute, easy and cheap!  Vintage buttons on a cork square with clear pushpins!

Hats usually get shoved onto a closet shelf.  Here they are displayed on a focal wall and really make a statement.

 Truly creative!

 

USE COLOR TO YOUR ADVANTAGE!  If your collection allows, try grouping like colors together or maybe create a beautiful flow of color.

This glass jar collection is so beautiful not only because it’s displayed in front of a window, but also because it’s grouped to mimic the feel of a rainbow.

 

Love books grouped by color.  Remove your book jackets and you just might have a new way of displaying your books.

A collection of boxes that pulls colors for the textiles serves as a beautiful backdrop to this room.  Smaller boxes are grouped together to balance the larger boxes that sit alone on a shelf.

What can I say?  This makes me want to start collecting teapots.  Overlapping the teapots and turning the spouts in different directions adds to the charm of this collection.  And, a background of color enhances the color impact of this display.

 

CREATE DEPTH, TOP to BOTTOM, and FRONT to BACK! Just as you do with tabletop decor, create interest for the eye as it moves throughout your display.

Vary the heights of items to create movement

Remember scale–smaller items surround and frame larger items giving the entire arrangement impact and symmetry.

 

Just in case the photos above weren’t inspiration enough, here are a few more photos of beautiful collection displays!

 

 

Think about what your display is shown ON or IN, because it adds to the overall impression you are making.

 Smaller objects have more importance when given impact.

Such a creative way to capture memories and create a collection!

If you’re someone who has a collection, devote the time and energy to making sure  your collection is an integral part of your decor.  Show your collection some LOVE!

 

Do you have a collection?  I’d love to know what it is!

 

all images via pinterest!

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