What's next?

I'm feeling a bit torn about which project to tackle next. We've done all the "easy" projects and now we're reaching the point of "Oh, that one's going to hurt a bit." Let's face it, bathrooms, kitchens and couches are not cheap, even in the DIY world.

So, while I sit and get my ducks in a row, I'll share what's been rattling around in my brain. Let's start with bathrooms. I love freestanding tubs. Have you noticed the trend of "enclosing" the shower and the tub in same space?

via Change your Bathroom, Inc.

I find myself drawn to this modern vibe until I run across the vintage option...

via Garden & Gun

So much character! I honestly couldn't tell you which one I like more. Guess that's where my 'eclectic' taste comes in play.

Now, for the couch...

I finally talked John into John decided we needed a new couch! But, darn it anyway, he made the requirement that it 'be comfy.' Doesn't he know it's solely style that matters?! ha!

Reese Sectional

I had my heart set on the Reese Sectional from Room and Board but there isn't a store close by for me to give it the 'ol comfy test. So, my sweet friend, Pam from Simple Details, ran to the store near her and was kind enough to lay on it for me. Bad news...not so comfy. Back to the drawing board.

Then, there's the kitchen. Do you remember that my cabinets are stained green? Click here to see the awesomeness. This kitchen from Adrian Amore Architects has me dreaming of the potential.

Adrian Amore Architects

So, what's next? I don't really know. When I find myself getting antsy, I have to remind myself that we decided to tackle this house like it's a marathon, not a sprint.

Lighting Look for Less

Have you seen Crate & Barrel's new lighting? When I saw this beautiful light...

Dumont Pendant Light

                                        ...it reminded of a picture I posted back in May.

so, so pretty!

The originals are available at Dunlin for $948 EACH! Crate & Barrel's version is on sale for a mere $239.20. That's quite the savings.

These are fun too...

 

                                       Union Pendant                                Fulton Pendant Lamp

Can you tell I'm on the hunt for lights? I need a big 'o chandelier though since the previous owners took theirs with them and left me a bundle of wires. Gotta love that!

Happy weekend, friends. I'm having lunch with a childhood friend and I'm really excited. Remember this Transparent Tuesday post? Yep, we live close to each other now. God just keeps on answering those prayers. Above and beyond, friends, above and beyond!

Inexpensive Marble Alternatives

Happy Black Friday! If there's a single day that screams "Give me a deal!" it's definitely today. When I ran across these images and realized the deal to be had, I had to pass it on.  Give a quick look and tell me your first impression of what you see...

{Wilsonart}

{Wilsonart}

Really pretty, right? Any guess what material your seeing right before your eyes?...

{Formica}

Travertine Silver

{Formica}

Calacatta Marble

{Formica}

Bianca Luna

{BAAN design via Houzz}

Plastic laminate over apple plywood with exposed edges.

Yep, you read that right...Laminate! I am so impressed with how pretty it looks. When I think laminate, I certainly don't think marble alternative, do you?

Wouldn't it be amazing to install countertops at a fraction of the cost and score something much more durable at the same time?

Laminate manufacturers stepped up their game and now offered several different edging options, just like granite and marble, bullnose, ogee and exposed. I'm a big fan of the exposed edge in the last image. So unique!

Last question, are you as surprised and impressed as I am? Now, for the even bigger question, would you be willing to install laminate in your own kitchen? I'm curious to know your thoughts?

Simple DIY Project

Yesterday I set off with a client in order to find something fun and different to fill a wall space in her kitchen that was bothering her. She had tried many different options, but just wasn't happy with any of them. We searched high and low and finally decided to get creative and make something original.

                                         So, let's take a look at the area before we started.

BEFORE

We started by finding 3 small baskets from World Market, then stopped at Hobby Lobby to buy some canvas cloth.

Cutting strips for the handle and to use to attach the baskets

Close up of the basket and beginning the process

Top handle completed and beginning to tie the lower baskets.

Holding it up to eyeball the height

Screwing in the hardware

 The final product:

AFTER

 We "shopped" her kitchen for items to fill the baskets. A potted plant was added on top. Then colorful dishtowels were rolled up and allowed to peek out in order to add a bit of color. Lastly, we found a miniature rolling pin, some silverware and a mango to finish off the look.

Linking to: 

House of Hepworths