How to Decorate the Foot of Your Bed

Have you ever walked into your bedroom and looked at the area at the foot of your bed and wondered, what do I put there?  If this question has crossed your mind, here are some stylish ways to decorate that often neglected space. 

Whatever you decide to put at the foot of your bed, make the space work for you!

If you’d like help creating a home you absolutely love, CONTACT ME about my design services!  If you live outside the Atlanta, GA area my Door-to-Door e-design service was created just for you!

all of these images can be found on my Bedrooms Pinterest board!

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Room of the Week–Closet Inspiration

I have an entire board on Pinterest dedicated to My Dream Closet.  Most of the images are over-the-top elaborate, extremely large and filled with elegant details.  While most of us dream of a closet space like that I’m also drawn to a small and intimate closet space like this one.

 via Better Homes and Gardens

I love that this armoire was given a new life and turned into a special space to showcase the finishing touches to a wardrobe.  The hooks to hold necklaces and bracelets are ideal to add function and the mirrored doors make this the perfect spot to primp. 

Every fashion treasure has its own space and is made to feel special.  That is the makings of a great closet!

And, this makes me think of armoires in a whole new way!

 Enjoy the first weekend of October!

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Room of The Week: Eclectic Style

 

Definition of ECLECTIC

 1: selecting what appears to be best in various doctrines, methods, or styles

2 : composed of elements drawn from various sources; also : heterogeneous

 

 

My personal style is eclectic and I love nothing more than mixing styles, finishes, colors and textures to create a space that feels as if it came from the soul versus from an established design style.  

This bedroom is a perfect example of eclectic style with its mixed wood finishes, all relatable but yet unique and independent. 

The mix of old world styling, classic details and traditional touches help to create a space that feels collected and curated. 

 

Spaces that feel personal and effortless like this one, are what I love most!

 

 

 

 

image courtesy of Houzz and Promise Tangeman Blog

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Style and Function: Desk as Nightstand

As a designer, I love to design a space that is encompasses style and function, allowing a room to become multifunctional.  One of my favorite style meets function looks is utilizing a desk as a nightstand alternative. 

When a desk replaces a traditional nightstand, not only are you creating a unique design statement within the bedroom but the space takes on an even more personal and intimate feel.

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This old school desk becomes really stylish with a coat of white paint, updated pulls and a ceramic garden seat as a chair alternative.

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I love the look of a large secretary next to the bed.  The drop down shelf is the perfect spot for nightstand necessities and a spot for guest to write out postcards, read or journal.

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When using a desk as a nightstand, don’t try to match the look on both sides of the bed.  A chest of drawers opposite balances the weight of the desk.

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This small rattan bench gives this desk night stand a light and airy feel. When tucked under the desk it will just look like an accent to complete the look.

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A substantial and heavy desk like this is a great option when your headboard is heavy and oversized.  Plus, a desk with drawers turns a nightstand into the perfect vanity.

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A lucite desk is great when you want the space to visually feel open and airy.

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I love how this desk blends into the wall and how the bookcases were incorporated to create an intimate work  space within the bedroom.  The bookcase alcove looks  like a large piece of art!

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Another beautiful lucite desk option!

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A parsons desk next to the bed is simple and modern.

 

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A vintage desk is a great way to add architectural interest while still keeping the function.  I adore this old rustic desk.

I’ve never had the perfect bedroom setup to use a desk as a nightstand but I’m hoping one day I can make it happen. 

 

 

So, what do you think of the desk as a nightstand look?  Love it or leave it??

 

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The Fashion and Function of Settees

 One of my favorite pieces of furniture is the Settee.  Not only are Settees the fashionable but they provide function in so many home decor applications.

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The Settee is a perfect option for seating at the foot of a bed.  Because they are larger in scale than a chair they balance the weight of a bed and add visual impact within a bedroom.

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I love the idea of a Settee in a library or reading room.  It provides the perfect spot for lounging solo or sitting with someone special while reading.

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As an accent in a living room, Settees provide additional seating without overpowering a space. 

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Tucked in front of a mirror in a bedroom, hallway or pass through, a Settee adds the charm.  And, the Settee is the perfect piece of furniture upholstered in a statement piece of fabric.

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Replacing what would in most cases be a piece of furniture, a Settee keeps the space at the end of a foyer open and airy!

via Amie Corley Design

Tucked into those often neglected alcoves, a Settee makes this space come alive and purposeful!

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Even in a more contemporary styled room, a Settee can make a statement and complete the look.  I love the curved details of this Settee amongst all the square and rectangular pieces.

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One of my favorite applications for Settees is as an alternative to dining chairs. This dining space is so much more intimate and cozy with twin Settees.

Image via Good Bones, Great Pieces book by mother, daughter author team Suzanne and Lauren McGrath! Available here!

In small rooms the Settee is a great alternative to a traditional sofa or grouping of chairs. 

 

If you’re looking to make changes in your decor or need to save on space, a Settee is a very practical and stylish option!

 

Thanks for stopping by today!

 

If you’d like help creating a home you absolutely love, CONTACT ME about my local design services or my Door-to-Door e-design service!

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The Anatomy of Bedding

Over the years, I’ve been asked on many occasions to explain what it takes to create a bed ensemble that is stylized, sophisticated and beautiful.

A bed, just like any other area of your home should have a design point-of-view and should make a statement. 

 Bedding can be simple….

 

or, layered and more detailed.

 

Here’s what I think it takes to pull together the perfect bedding look:

• Mix and match Sheets and Pillow Cases–I love the look of different fitted and flat sheets combined together.  You could combine a pattern and solid or two different solid colors together.  And, a patterned pillowcase thrown into the mix will add instant style. Rule of thumb:  keep the darker sheet as the fitted sheet so the heaviest color is closer to the floor.

 

• Duvet or Comforter–To get the layered look, incorporating a duvet or comforter is key.  Personally, I like this layer folded back at the foot of the bed versus covering the entire bed, especially when the pieces is an all over pattern or highly textured.

• Bedspread–This is the ultimate layering piece to me.  A textured, lightweight bedspreads can serve as foundation of your bedding.  Cover the entire bed and fold it back at the top to add some dimension. 

Target sells a great diamond quilted bedspread like the one in the photo below, available in a range of colors.

• Euro and/or Standard Shams–Larger pillows placed at the back of the bed will provide a visual frame for your bedding.  If you use patterned shams you may want to stick with standard pillowcases in a solid or a tiny scale print.  Rule of thumb:  King size beds should always use three euro shams to fill the space.

 

• Contrasting Toss Pillows–This is where you can have lots of fun.  Add a few or add a lot but think of toss pillows as the jewelry to your bedding.  Mix solid and patterns, use a variety of shapes or use one fabulous pillow as the focal point.

This is the mix of pillows I use on my bed.   The yellow and grey pillow and the yellow rosette pillow are from Target.  I made the polka dot pillow and the black and white lattice pillowcases.

• A Bedskirt (optional)–depending on the style of your bed, a bedskirt can be used to add another layer to your bedding.  There are different styles of bedskirts, tailored, pleated and ruffled but whatever style you choose, make sure the skirt touches the floor.  And, don’t forget that you can add a little detail to solid bedskirts with a ribbon trim or contrasting fabric border.

 

So there you have it, a few tips on creating a luxurious and beautiful bed ensemble!

Want to see a beautiful bed come to life, check out this video by Nake Berkus!

 

Sweet Dreams!

 all images via Pinterest

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Design Details: Chevron Flooring

Years ago hardwood flooring became the #1 flooring choice over carpeting, but the look of hardwood can be elevated to a new level when laid in a chevron pattern. 

I adore chevron pattern hardwoods for so many reasons:

*  they add visual interest to a room

*  they can make a room seem wider and longer

*  they add “pattern” that easily replaces what you’d get from an area rug

*  they’re beautiful

*  they’re a work of art

*  And, beyond wood, a chevron pattern floor can be created in all types of materials like brick, tile, marble and of course paint.

Here’s a round-up of Chevron Flooring to inspire and delight you!  And, while you’re checking out these images, take note of the decor in the rooms shown.  There are some beautiful details…furniture pieces, accessorizing, wall colors and lighting that I’m sure will be an inspiration to you too!

Enjoy!

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If you have your choice of a classic wood floor layout or chevron, which would you choose???

 

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The Makings of a Beautiful Nightstand

Nightstands are a key part in every bedroom, anchoring the bed and giving the entire space form,  function and style! 

Here’s what it takes to make your nightstand, stand out…

• The Nightstand Itself–whenever possible, avoid a matching piece to your bed/headboard.  A unique nightstand will give new life to a simple headboard/bed.  Try a piece of antique furniture, a small writing desk, a cabinet with drawers, a skirted round table or even stacked luggage pieces.  Do something unexpected!

 

• The Lighting–choose a lamp that will provide good reading light and one that adds some style and personality to the space.  Ceramic base lamps are great for bedrooms as are crystal or glass lamps.  And, if your nightstand is too small to hold a tabletop lamp, think about hanging a pendant overhead.  Trey Chic!

 

• The Accessories–I don’t know about you, but I love to have a stash of special treasures on my nightstand…

Books/iPad–for late night reading or early morning blog browsing

Scented Candle–lighting a candle an hour or so before you go to bed will help you sleep better and have sweet dreams

Bedside Clock–forgo the glow-in-the-dark electronic version and add a stylish chrome or brass clock next to your bed

Flowers–real or faux, flowers will add a sense of opulence to your bedroom. 

Photos–a photo of my husband and I sits on my nightstand…a great reminder as I fall to sleep of what matters most.

 

 And, for those of you that like a cleaner look on your nightstand, use decorative boxes or baskets to hold everything. 

• The Surround–decorating your nightstand does not just stop at what you put on top of your nightstand. Creating a dynamic look for your nightstand also includes what surrounds it.  I love hanging a grouping of framed art on the wall above the nightstand, or a decorative mirror.  Both elements will add impact around your nightstand.

 

 via styleathome

 Southern Accents via myhomeideas

 Grey Crawford via myhomeideas

 via elementsofstyleblog

 Coastal Living via myhomeideas, photo-John O’Hagan

 Coastal Living via myhomeideas

 via myhomeideas

 via temporary-nest-blogspot

 Tria Giovan via myhomeideas

 via bellemaison23

 Southern Living via myhomeideas

 via housebeautiful

 via olystudio

 via simpleeyedesign.blogspot

Coastal Living via myhomeideas 

 

I’ll be spending the next few days at the Atlanta Gift Show and will be back Monday with some of the new products and trends from the show.  Until then, try giving your nightstand a new look and see what a difference it makes!

Sweet Dreams until Monday.

p.s.  Thank you for all the sweet emails about my 20th Wedding Anniversary.  It’s a joy to be loved inside your home, and out!

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