Decorating With Red, White And Blue

In honor of Memorial Day, today’s inspiration board features a red, white and blue decorating scheme. Before you start imagining themed holiday celebrations, let me assure you the look is light on the stars and stripes, yet still perfectly patriotic.

With big accessories in blue and white, simple accents in red and neutral colors mixed in, this living room comes across as casual, a little country and perfect for living during the summer season.

Starting with a basic white sofa, the color palette is established with a bold striped rug and buffalo-check curtains in blue and white. Pops of red from a pillow, quilt and flower arrangement reinforce Americana style. A bamboo trunk (use two as a coffee table) brings in natural texture, while a metallic lantern and sunburst mirror add a touch of sparkle.

clockwise from top left:
Double Cube Brass lantern from Shades of Light
Cherry Wood Pole Set from Lowe's
Indigo Check fabric from Ballard Designs
Carnation centerpieces from Country Living via The Finer Things
Bamboo Lattice Storage Stool from The Container Store
Striped Braided Indoor/Outdoor Rug from Ballard Designs
PB Comfort Sofa from Pottery Barn
Patchwork Throw from Home a la Mode
Red Floral (ektorp) Neckroll from Ikea
Gold Sunburst Mirror from Target

A Boys Nursery In Blue

Since I have a daughter, most of my posts naturally tend to be more girly and pink. It’s getting to be a bit much even for me. So…I’ve decided it’s time to show the boys some love.

This nursery inspiration board is around the classic color choice for boys – blue. The look mixes sporty with a little bit of whimsy to create a modern room that is all boy.

wallpaper letters and numbers from Land of Nod
ABC learning blocks from Three Ladybugz
Squirt lampshade and gum drop table lamp from Walmart
white cabinet from Ikea
rugby stripe rug from Pottery Barn Kids
Dwell Studio for Target bedding from Target
wall shelves from Ikea

I'm not used to all this blue, so I'm not sure how I feel about this look.

What do you think?

Create a Cheery Outdoor Room

Inspired tomorrow's Cinco de Mayo celebrations, this inspiration board is full of vibrant colors and bold patterns. These ideas would look equally great for a garden nook, front porch or backyard patio.

• Start with an antique-style bench in an unexpected color.Martha Stewart Everyday Aberdeen bench from Kmart
• Add pattern with a stylish, yet durable, outdoor rug. Laney Patio Rug from Target
• Instead of one big table, use two wicker side tables if front of the bench as a convenient spot to perch feet or drinks. Wicker Cafe side table from Target
• Top off one of the side tables with bold blooms, like these ranunculus, in shades of the sun. floral bouquet from BHG
• Hang simple bowl-shaped planters to fill with cascading flowers. Mynta hanging planter from Ikea
• Serve lemonade, iced water or sweet tea in fiesta-worthy pieces. Macy's Exclusive Fiesta goblet from Macy's; Fiesta disk pitcher from The Homer Laughlin China Co.
  
• This tequila-soaked fruit dish fits right in with the citrus-y colors of the outdoor room. Tequila soaked fruit from Martha Stewart
• For additional color and comfort, complete the outdoor space with rainbow-bright pillows in stripes and flowers. Sadie and multistripe outdoor pillows from Pottery Barn

5 Great Birthday Banner Ideas

Ah, banners. Or garlands. Or streamers. It doesn’t matter what you call them. Hanging up anything with ribbon or string in the name of celebrating is an absolute must-have in my party planning mind. They are such an easy, festive and customizable party decoration. Whether you make them or buy them, they can be as simple or elaborate as you want.

Here’s a look at five great finds from romantic flowers to classic pennant flags.

1. Polkadot Collection cardstock banner from Polkadots & Pirates
2. Customized Papel Picado banner from Mexican Sugar Skull via Snippet & Ink
3. Fabric and pom pom trim banner from Moda Bake Shop
4. Felt pennant banner from Ohdeedoh
5. Flower garland from Sophie Cuvelier via Design Crisis

Create A Relaxing Outdoor Space

In honor of Earth Day I put together this board for an intimate outdoor seating area. Several of the products use sustainable materials or are eco-friendly in other ways. It would work equally well in a small garden, patio or even a balcony (just choose a smaller rug and trade the flowering bushes for potted plants).

Our front porch has an odd little nook with nothing in it. Unfortunately, I’m not much of an outdoorsy girl so venturing outside to sit isn’t high on my list. However, if it looked like this – inviting, peaceful, stylish – I just might find more time to go out there.

• Add pillows to these cute bistro chairs to make them fit in with any design scheme. Constructed of plantation-grown acacia wood, they store easily during colder months. Mika folding side chairs from Cost Plus World Market
  

• A lantern looks pretty during the day, but it adds the perfect amount of sparkle to a seating area after the sun sets. Bristol lantern from Pottery Barn

• These pillows look slightly retro, which contrasts nicely with the old-fashioned feminine feel of the other pieces. handmade throw pillows from Marie's Cozy Cushions
  

• You can sit on it or prop up your feet, but I'd put this hand-carved, hand-painted beauty between the bistro chairs and set my drink on it. garden stool from Pier 1

• These turquoise glasses are begging for water, lemonade or, if you're in the South like me, sweet tea. tulip tumbler and hobnail juice glass from Anthropologie

• The vintage vibe of this rug pulls the outdoor space together. Bonus: just spray it down when it gets dirty. outdoor rug from Target

• I absolutely love, love, love hydrangeas. While April may be a tad early for these blooms, they are the endless summer variety, so you will plenty of time to enjoy them. endless summer hydrangeas from Home Depot

Do you have a favorite place to sit outside?

5 Kid-Friendly Ways To Store Kids Books

Seeing the little reading corner SouleMama created at the top of her stair landing got me thinking about carving out a space for my own little one (see Monday’s post). AFter creating the girl’s reading nook inspiration board, I started thinking about organizing all the books.

In my experience, it’s best for the books to be accessible to little hands (although I do have a few special books stored in high places to prevent the inevitable rips, crumples and nibbles.). Here’s a short list of five storage options for your kid’s books. All of them make it easy for kids to find something to read and they fit in stylishly with your home's decor.


clockwise from top left: storage basket from Target; book caddy from Land of Nod; book bag from Brooke at Inchmark; bookcase from Ikea; book cozy from Morgan at One More Moore

Note: The book bag may not be great for long-term storage, but it’s great for holding favorite books, separating those on a certain topic (such as potty training!) or carrying them back and forth to the library as explained on the Inchmark blog.

A Girl's Reading Nook

If my daughter had no other toys except books, I believe she would be happy. She has always loved books, and hopefully that won't change as she gets older. I can't wait to introduce her to storybooks and series books some day--many of them that I enjoyed as a kid.

When that day comes, I hope to create a space just for her dedicated entirely to reading. It will have to stylish, functional and made to grow up in.

ABC print from Sophia's Sweet Spot; wall book bin from Land of Nod; table lamp from PBTeen; shelving unit from Ikea; chocolate rug from Babys R Us; pink floral chair from Target

Perfect Pairs: Umbrellas And Stands

April is a month known for showers, which means you're going to need an umbrella. If you use an umbrella, you're going to need somewhere to store it.

Enter perfect pairs. Choose your style, choose your pieces and get ready to weather the rainy season in style.

1. Boot umbrella stand from z gallerie; Sweet Daisies umbrella from Target
2. Vintage stick umbrella from Totes; black umbrella stand from Ikea
3. Driade umbrella stand from Unica Home; polka-dot umbrella from Dillards
4. clear bubble umbrella from Target; Marcello umbrella holder from z gallerie
   

A Room Makeover For Spring

Each new season brings new opportunities for decorating. For spring, this means bright, happy colors. This year, it seems I am hooked on green. (Check out Hooked on Houses to what other people are hooked on this week.) Like the sprigs of grass popping up outside, this fresh and vibrant color is everywhere I turn.

This look is perfect for a family room or bedroom. If you start with a neutral backdrop and furniture, it's easy to add a few decorative touches to make your home feel like spring.

• Pillows and throws, vases and storage items are inexpensive changes.
  
• Switching furniture hardware is like putting on jewelry; its a small touch that makes an impact.
• Changing lamps and rugs with the season is more costly. If you find one you love, go for it, and work it into the rest of your decor.
• Hanging wallpaper is a permanent choice. If you don't want to live with spring green in November, simply frame a few pieces (of any decorative paper) to create rotating seasonal art.
  

clockwise from top left:
green trellis wallpaper from Ballard Designs
ruffle pillow from Hettle
floral pillow from Anthropologie
cocktail ring knob from Anthropologie
glass vase from Target
table lamp from Cottage & Bungalow
green graphic cotton mat from Pottery Barn
storage boxes from Ikea
striped throw from Dash & Albert

Do you like to decorate with each season in mind? What is your favorite color for spring?

How To Use Bright Color In A Girl's Nursery

Sometimes decorating a child’s room without color is hard making the last post on a black and white nursery useless for many parents. So, how about some color and lots of it? I’m thinking bright, fun and unexpected colors not found in a traditional nursery.

This look for a bold and modern girl’s room starts with a hot pink and orange color scheme. Since none of the items are permanent, everything is easily swapped as tastes change or if the color doesn’t work. These vibrant accessories work equally well for a newborn nursery or a redecorated big girl’s room. For more looks of brightly colored kid’s rooms, check out the ideas from Parents magazine and the house tours at Ohdeedoh.

• Window panels with thick, vertical stripes add height to the room. Henley strip drape from PBteen
• Hang paper lanterns in different colors for a fun take on the classic mobile. mango, grass green and hot pink paper lanterns from Luna Bazaar
• A mini lamp in brightly-colored blown glass is perfect for nighttime wakings. Lykta table lamp from IKEA
• Modern and educational...just what this girl's room needs. alphabet print from ModernPop
  
• A blooming growth chart matches the room and captures fleeting childhood days. personalized flowers growth chart from Land of Nod
• A rainbow of polka-dots on this rug brings the room together. multicolor rug from Target

How do you feel about bold, bright color in a nursery?

See How Easily You Can Make Black And White Work In A Nursery

Research shows that newborns have difficulty distinguishing between colors, which makes their view of the outside world a blur. However, they clearly see in black and white. This classic color combination is a great choice for decorating a nursery. Not only do these high contrast colors—light and dark side by side—create a stimulating space, they provide a stylish departure from tried-and-true pink and blue baby rooms.

If you’re thinking, “What? Black and white in a nursery,” stick with me. I’m not going to tell you to paint the room in black and white stripes, unless that is the look you’re after. Start with neutral walls the color of rich caramel, misty silver or creamy lattes. You can then add bedding, artwork and other fun accessories to play up the contrast theme.

clockwise from top left:
black girls play fabric from jcaroline creative
white first number fabric from jcaroline creative
Knappa Klover pendant lamp from IKEA
black & white duck print from Grow Big Dreams, Dude by K. Barteski
visual stimulation developmental baby blocks from Cookie Dough
Dottie rug from PBteen
Tadpoles 4-pc crib bedding set from Target.com
Crane Cool Mist Humidifier from Amazon

How do you feel about black and white decorating? Would you use it in a baby's nursery?

Top 5 Home Accessories For Your Favorite Reading Corner

Here in Alabama the weather has been refreshingly spring-like lately. However, it will not last, not yet, anyway. The weather forecast predicts blasts of winter in the coming weeks, which I think is great. It means at least one more opportunity to curl up in a comfortable chair, with a hot cup of coffee and a good read.

photo by ceanandjen

Between entertaining a 17-month old, trying to keep a presentable home and writing a few articles, free time does not happen that often. I know you mommies out there can relate. When I do manage a few empty hours in my day and it is cold outside, all I want to do is grab a blanket and read.

Of course, it is not that simple. The perfectionist in me needs the set up to be, well, perfect. Before I can get comfortable, there are a few props I must gather and have at the ready. Finally, I am prepared to snuggle up in my cozy reading spot, just like those seen in the pages of a beloved magazine…oh, how I will miss Cottage Living.

Are you tempted to jump into your favorite chair? Go ahead, but not before you check out my top five must-haves for a truly relaxing read.

Floor Lamp
Cantilever Adjustable Floor Lamp from Target
An adjustable model like this antique-inspired version provides optimal lighting wherever you need it.

Reading Glasses
Burberry Eyeglasses in Cranberry Crystal at DecorMyEyes
If you must have glasses while you read, at least they can look stylish.

Throw
Home Tweed Throw from Target
The ideal throw is warm, yet not too bulky so it will tuck around you in all the right places. I actually have this fringe-trimmed blanket, and it is just perfect.

Pillow
Embroidered Floral Pillow from Pier 1
While a pillow is not essential to a good reading experience, it does help to prop up tired elbows.

Coffee Cup
Polka Dot Handled Cup from Fishs Eddy
I love to have a hot drink while lost in the pages of a favorite book. This playful polka-dot mug makes it easy to take a sip no matter which hand you use.


What do you like to do in your free time? Is there one activity you indulge in before any other?

A New Room For A New You

Photo from Southern Living Magazine

Many resolutions fail to make it past the month of January. If you are one of the many people who resolved to make over their bodies in the New Year but have already slacked off, you could probably use a little motivation to get going again. Why not adapt an extra room of your house to serve as inspiring space to get in shape?

Unless you choose your basement or garage as a designated workout area, there is no reason to make the space look like a gym. Outfit the room like you would any other and it can double as a home office or guest quarters when work out time is over.

• An open-backed bookshelf lets wall color shine and provides easy storage for workout accessories, books and DVDs. Black Modern Shelving Unit from Target.com
  
• Add an unexpected element like a chandelier with an organic silhouette. Camilla 3-Arrm Chandelier from Pottery Barn
• Create a bold focal point by wallpapering one wall. Family Tree wallpaper from Walnut Wallpaper; Paint Color Georgian Bay (#6509) by Sherwin Williams
  
• Choose practical, yet pretty flooring. Flor tiles in Needlepoint Stripe and Velvet Twist
• Choose functional storage that is pretty to look at. Contour baskets from CB2; Cypress ottoman from Crate and Barrel

Instead of bulky machines, try practicing yoga or Pilates to help improve both body and spirit. The equipment is unobtrusive and even blends in with the room’s décor. Otherwise, simply stash it in one of the smart storage solutions you find for the space.

• Choose a flat-screen television with a sharp picture for instructional DVDs. LG 32" Flat-Panel LCD HDTV from Best Buy
• A sleek iPod docking station blends in with your decor while you listen to your favorite tunes. Vers 2X from Vers Audio
• A decorative mirror allows you to monitor poses. Hang three to add interest to a blank wall like in the inspiration room above. Foil Finish Hall Mirror from Target.com
  
• Pretty accessories and comfortable clothes make a workout more fun. Printed Yoga Mat from Old Navy; Natural Fitness Burst-Resistant Exercise Ball from Target.com; Women's Wide-Leg Yoga Capris from Old Navy; Premium Basic Striped Hoodie from Nike
• Fluffy towels are nice to have after a strenuous session and these look fine sitting in plain sight. Better Homes and Gardens 3-piece Towel Set in Admiral Blue, Platinum Silver and Grey Shadow from Walmart.com
• Keep a set of hand weights accessible for extra toning. CAP Barbell Cast-Iron Dumbells from Academy Sports and Outdoors
  

Did you resolve to lose weight, get in better shape or be healthier this year? Is your workout space visually inspiring?

Organize With Style and Function

Is the organizational bug biting you, yet? Since the start of a new year is prime time for getting houses in order, it probably is. If you have big ideas for a home where everything is in its place, check out these shelves, bins and other fun accessories. Use them to inspire you and yours to tidy up and stay that way all year.

clockwise from top left:

• Bedford Smart Recharge Station from Pottery Barn
• Madison Corkboard from Ballard Designs
• Espresso Bead Baby Box from Hable Construction
• White Lacquer Trays from WS Home
• Lace Cut Media Storage Unit from Brocade Home
• Portofino Office Storage Boxes from The Container Store

clockwise from top left:

• Magazine File from See Jane Work
• Helena Veneer File Folder from See Jane Work
• Fabric-Covered Pushpins from Flashy Fish
• Nested Paper Hatboxes from PBTeen
• Bella Document Envelope from See Jane Work
• Venetian Coral Pencil Cup from See Jane Work
• 2008-2009 Desktop Calendar from momAgenda
  

clockwise from top left:

• Zoo Animal Rubberbands from See Jane Work
• Big Book 4-Sided Library with Casters from RonJuneShop
• Noje Boxes from Ikea
• Lazy Susan with Mini Buckets from Pottery Barn Kids

How do you organize your home and life? What is your favorite storage product?