Decorating a dining table - 1

  I like questions from my readers because they help me focus on topics that  will actually help someone solve a problem.   This post is for the reader who question the best way to decorate  a dining room table. If you're wondering what lies beyond  a  runner, faux greenery and scented candles,   read on....<br /><br /><b>Consider  table shape </b><br />The shape of your table will dictate where you place decorative objects on it .  Circular tables have less options and cry out for central placements<b> </b>as you can see in the photos below . Use variety in shapes and  more than one object to create greater interest. The objects you choose to display should also work well with the overall theme/style of the room. <br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/87800/Corbett-Lighting-traditional-dining-room-miami"><img alt="Corbett Lighting traditional dining room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/87800_0_8-5978-traditional-dining-room.jpg" width="311" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/11731/Capitol-Lighting" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Capitol Lighting</a></small></div><br /><b> </b>With a circular table the trick is to use scale and variety to energize the display. The two urns are simple and elegant and their height is counter balanced by the  visual weight of the circular  bowl .  Everything blends but it is still interesting because of the objects used.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1573201274" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg07IZoNTMycv5W0bkHoQlvl-aUsuYSKN3oEh4FB_4J-_kIR_11eyIGRn7-LESRx4NcofYAf-ZeKlO8HCNpHAn-pnhTjotOHEg9LDuXoUwvMBeOayCk_esq_aBPIkOsYQg703z7DbEqcYoQ/s400/metropolitan-round-dining-table.jpg" width="380" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://interiordesigningblog.com/dining-rooms/round-dining-room-table/%20">source</a></span></div><br />You can never go astray by choosing calla lilies for a table.  They are tall and elegant and the white goes with any decor.  They look particularly pleasing in this room where their height  directs the eye to the stairs and the shape of the vase seems to nestle into the curve of the stairs in the background. <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br />You have more options with a rectangular table.</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-M9VURCOLJO4on0d_zIFaUgRbfpGyaVgeKG3vlOE_IPsi24Opplr0N13KNq8wy18JZt5DLRCKqVPnkf2Trn-7yzIWtP0ChepdkLQ3LuC_dixmDKvttOZgmFxoJPoysGtjWWI7-wxVoyw/s1600-h/slide7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-M9VURCOLJO4on0d_zIFaUgRbfpGyaVgeKG3vlOE_IPsi24Opplr0N13KNq8wy18JZt5DLRCKqVPnkf2Trn-7yzIWtP0ChepdkLQ3LuC_dixmDKvttOZgmFxoJPoysGtjWWI7-wxVoyw/s400/slide7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />You can stretch  out your arrangement along the table .  This works because of the harmony created by the use of similar materials and interesting shapes.  It's symmetrical without being boring.<br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjitQZbRLZHD-aF4QYm-7HX5pWSUMuUrXdZek0mqieIQaJg0ukemIFXBIZm_EJ_wZ_N8eSUkpBVxHMQjQalDzxMdecQyx7zzOzwJ6J-Na-QczAE9SS5F47pjuVPSLvY_Z4dirCMv8Tv5M/s1600-h/Dining+Room+Drum+Pendant+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjitQZbRLZHD-aF4QYm-7HX5pWSUMuUrXdZek0mqieIQaJg0ukemIFXBIZm_EJ_wZ_N8eSUkpBVxHMQjQalDzxMdecQyx7zzOzwJ6J-Na-QczAE9SS5F47pjuVPSLvY_Z4dirCMv8Tv5M/s400/Dining+Room+Drum+Pendant+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b></b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span"><a href="http://www.restorationhardware.com/">source</a></span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span></i>Repetition of shapes and simplicity in colour works well no matter what style of table you have. You can never go wrong with white objects. Matching the scale of the objects to what is around them is  important especially in this room where the lighting is large and  hung so low .  Another solution for this table would be something  long and narrow  with multiple objects in it.  <b><br /></b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/140433/Willowgrove-Dining-Room-contemporary-dining-room-other-metros"><img alt="Willowgrove Dining Room contemporary dining room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/140433_0_8-5530-contemporary-dining-room.jpg" width="298" /></a><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/17825/Atmosphere-Interior-Design-Inc" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Atmosphere Interior Design Inc.</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div> Using multiples on long tables moves the eye along the length,  creates unity and helps balance scale. The crystal vases add an additional texture that works with the lavishness of the room.<b></b><br /><b><br /></b><br /><b><br /></b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Fi060B-ktEL7mwwg7bQJwv0vFQ0L_amwysAJsZt_RLn2_bT3Ad-J65ECOvf6O0Q6e8W12TVpkZeemJR70SeViPuaX_-Fqj4_MCQpigusbwqeI5RqEIKqh1VR0b5FiJ1jd_BFykda0adQ/s1600/dining-room-storage1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Fi060B-ktEL7mwwg7bQJwv0vFQ0L_amwysAJsZt_RLn2_bT3Ad-J65ECOvf6O0Q6e8W12TVpkZeemJR70SeViPuaX_-Fqj4_MCQpigusbwqeI5RqEIKqh1VR0b5FiJ1jd_BFykda0adQ/s400/dining-room-storage1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b> </b><a href="http://www.housetohome.co.uk/dining-room/picture/dining-room-storage-1?room_style=traditional">House to Home</a></span><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>In this room the table is part of  a larger design on the back wall .  I love how the off centre placement of the flowers integrates with the open book on the display shelf behind it.  It isn't obvious right away and it's a happy moment when you discover it - thoughtful design at its best.<br /><br /><b>Candlesticks  </b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/119584/William-Hefner-Architecture-Interiors---Landscape-traditional-dining-room-los-angeles"><img alt="William Hefner Architecture Interiors & Landscape traditional dining room" border="0" height="266" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/119584_0_8-4622-traditional-dining-room.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/15093/William-Hefner-Architecture-Interiors--Landscape" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">William Hefner Architecture Interiors </a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b> </b>Displaying functional objects on your tabletop adds interest and also provides a place to store things. When you use tall objects like these candlesticks you can get away with the off centre placement of them but with the simple lines of this room I would use one or the other of these groupings- my preference is the candlesticks. While candlesticks are a traditional solution to table decorations, you can WOW by choosing interesting styles, mixing finishes  and massing them together.  <br /><br /><br /><b></b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT_ew7N4Mb1yfzPubZKH-zZS-93yepYsFWYd2J_PydDIP2VrCMw7vda1VzAUpSKmRqtro-gSBjccgWXBpN1hbYWSh-CRBFHKhRv6CPhNFZCwAQGtMiUddaevPtKywkddCZkcsvy3OJZnL8/s1600/pottery-barn-candlesticks.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT_ew7N4Mb1yfzPubZKH-zZS-93yepYsFWYd2J_PydDIP2VrCMw7vda1VzAUpSKmRqtro-gSBjccgWXBpN1hbYWSh-CRBFHKhRv6CPhNFZCwAQGtMiUddaevPtKywkddCZkcsvy3OJZnL8/s400/pottery-barn-candlesticks.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><a href="http://livethefancylife.wordpress.com/2010/01/10/setting-a-fancy-dinner-table/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">live the fancy life</span> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">When you use multiples it is bet to keep at least one aspect the same and then use variety.  In the shot about you have varying heights and shapes but they are all clear and the same colour candle is used.  Less colour always produces a more sophisticated look. . You don't have to have this many but rectangular or circular massing of at least five works best.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ig_aL_oL65O9BfiGlwOqVNbnavFekUo_0T7hU7gYHwoF0q0Dm7fuj0aWkCr5-N4jPrhxrn0Lt5NmBarJ3drB1TebyodaScQZNq1Edk5cpF35tcu-Y9PH33Izx96WqHNXbYo_WCtG6AGv/s1600/diningroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ig_aL_oL65O9BfiGlwOqVNbnavFekUo_0T7hU7gYHwoF0q0Dm7fuj0aWkCr5-N4jPrhxrn0Lt5NmBarJ3drB1TebyodaScQZNq1Edk5cpF35tcu-Y9PH33Izx96WqHNXbYo_WCtG6AGv/s400/diningroom.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.housetohome.co.uk/dining-room/picture/bright-colour?room_style=traditional">House to Home</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div> Height works when you have clear candlestick groupings. Multiples can create a cluttered look if the variables are not controlled.  These holders are so delicate it looks like the candles are hovering above the table. Keeping the candles to one hue and varying it is always an interesting statement.  </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><a href="http://livethefancylife.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/candles1.jpg"><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-532 " height="280" src="http://livethefancylife.files.wordpress.com/2010/01/candles1.jpg?w=360&h=280" title="candles" width="360" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Crate and Barrel via <a href="http://livethefancylife.wordpress.com/">Live the fancy life</a></span></div><br /><b> </b>Metal and glass always look good together because of their sparkle especially when candles are lit.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0tUaZBarHxhtwZiGH_WetDwBYAQfm_hz5GaD2ITdWlBZyvjZGhTNy33eADtiQ0FHncyjxRR_Fn8l_Tc8chIGa_UTi-Qw1R3sLUO5hbDCPAi9cqCkqXdV3IZ4NNSgZ3wiwXzkiF9mv48h/s1600/candles-from-real-simple1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-0tUaZBarHxhtwZiGH_WetDwBYAQfm_hz5GaD2ITdWlBZyvjZGhTNy33eADtiQ0FHncyjxRR_Fn8l_Tc8chIGa_UTi-Qw1R3sLUO5hbDCPAi9cqCkqXdV3IZ4NNSgZ3wiwXzkiF9mv48h/s400/candles-from-real-simple1.jpg" width="335" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Using a piece of mirror as a runner and placing candles on it is an inexpensive treatment that always look exceptional.  You don't have to worry about safety and any melted wax scrapes off with a blade. One</div><br /><b> Fresh flowers </b><br />You can never go wrong with fresh flowers but you can move your WOW factor from OK to fantastic by considering the container you use and kind and amount of flowers.  I love tall flowers on a dining table but you have to consider the space between your light and the top of the floral arrangement.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/75328/Dining-Room-traditional-dining-room-other-metros"><img alt="Dining Room traditional dining room" border="0" height="278" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/75328_0_8-2173-traditional-dining-room.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><small> </small><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/9722/Rachel-Reider-Interiors" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Rachel Reider Interiors</a></small></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>The use of tall thin vases and a sparse arrangement of flowers works in this room.  This is a trick I often use because it cuts down on the the number of flowers you have to buy.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhceHIWdwPjVb_XELygK3rj4NqmhAUrIThYabTOxOVgd5EyX3wZc7EQ-U8OLFz46d3akf_kq8BLmdlI1EtUTFSVh7JbBhh1xBxBdjqWKlYsJy1KXJVoFmV3hSymeEhCvAZPC87WkT7AM-EC/s1600/fwr10sp04main_dm01x.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhceHIWdwPjVb_XELygK3rj4NqmhAUrIThYabTOxOVgd5EyX3wZc7EQ-U8OLFz46d3akf_kq8BLmdlI1EtUTFSVh7JbBhh1xBxBdjqWKlYsJy1KXJVoFmV3hSymeEhCvAZPC87WkT7AM-EC/s400/fwr10sp04main_dm01x.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/stylehouse/articles/accessorize_with_unique_items_dining_room.html">Pottery Barn </a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Here's another variation on the theme above.  The flowers you choose can come from your own garden too.  I manage to always have something fresh at my summer house without a price tag attached to it. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/44099/Displaying-art-collections-contemporary-dining-room-los-angeles"><img alt="Displaying art collections contemporary dining room" border="0" height="292" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/44099_0_8-1990-contemporary-dining-room.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designer/los-angeles" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/2253/Tracy-Murdock-Allied-ASID" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Tracy Murdock Allied ASID</a></small><br /><small>  </small></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhceHIWdwPjVb_XELygK3rj4NqmhAUrIThYabTOxOVgd5EyX3wZc7EQ-U8OLFz46d3akf_kq8BLmdlI1EtUTFSVh7JbBhh1xBxBdjqWKlYsJy1KXJVoFmV3hSymeEhCvAZPC87WkT7AM-EC/s1600/fwr10sp04main_dm01x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><small><span style="font-size: small;">Orchids always work and a repetition of them is always better. </span><br /></small></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/82102/Lauderdale-By-the-Sea-Condo-modern-living-room-other-metros"><br /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/125760/Pretty-in-Pink-traditional-dining-room-boston"><img alt="Pretty in Pink traditional dining room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/125760_0_8-8276-traditional-dining-room.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><small> </small><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/10432/Su-Casa-Designs" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Su Casa Designs</a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div>This classic arrangement of fresh flowers in a simple vase and candlesticks always works.  When you have candles it is important to keep them straight.  Masses of them make any that are not perfect stand out. <br /><div><h1 class="entry-title" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/167207/San-Francisco-Decorator-Showcase-2011---"><img alt="San Francisco Decorator Showcase 2011 " border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/167207_0_8-4530--.jpg" width="266" /></a> </h1>Masses of traditional Chinese jars and peonies - what could be more perfect?<br /><div class="entry-content"><br /></div></div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/modern/entry" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"><br /></a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/39476/small-Chelsea-apartment-modern-dining-room-london"><img alt="small Chelsea apartment modern dining room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/39476_0_8-8418-modern-dining-room.jpg" width="262" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/4871/Celia-James" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Celia James</a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Sparkle everywhere.  This small room makes good use of the mirror at the end of the table. You actually get multiple arrangements of flowers!<br /><br /><b> Sculptural  elements </b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/entry" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/90496/Dining-Room-only-for-Grown-ups-modern-dining-room-other-metros"><img alt="Dining Room only for Grown-ups modern dining room" border="0" height="380" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/90496_0_8-4056-modern-dining-room.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/modern/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/11856/Imagine-Living" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Imagine Living</a></small></div><br /><div>Go for the unexpected as a table decoration.  This arrangement is as interesting as the rest of the space it is part of. </div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"><br /></a></small></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/62201/Dining-modern-dining-room-charlotte"><img alt="Dining modern dining room" border="0" height="300" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/62201_0_8-0072-modern-dining-room.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/87800/Corbett-Lighting-traditional-dining-room-miami"> </a></div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"> </a><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/11731/Capitol-Lighting" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/8042/Grainda-Builders-Inc" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Grainda Builders, Inc.</a></small></div><br /><br />Being an avid beachcomber I would have no difficulty finding interesting driftwood arrangements.  This one mimics the lines of the artwork behind it. Simple but very effective. <br /><div><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/75328/Dining-Room-traditional-dining-room-other-metros"><br /></a></div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/traditional/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designer/boston" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"><br /></a><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/9722/Rachel-Reider-Interiors" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/95736/Dining-Room-contemporary-dining-room-atlanta"><img alt="Dining Room contemporary dining room" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/95736_0_8-2041-contemporary-dining-room.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/12744/Joel-Kelly-Design" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Joel Kelly Design</a></small></div><br /><div>Some tables are so sculptural they need nothing more added. </div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/eclectic/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a></small></div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/modern/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a></small></div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/modern/dining-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a></small></div>

Decorating a dining table - 1

  I like questions from my readers because they help me focus on topics that  will actually help someone solve a problem.   This post is for...

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Take one console table and...

Console tables are versatile pieces of furniture. Most often they are used as sofa tables, but such a narrow application limits  this amazing piece of furniture which can  add interest, character and serviceability to many rooms in your home.  A little creativity will turn this long, leggy table into a showpiece.   You can keep your application simple or you can layer to your hearts delight.  It all depends on the look you want to achieve.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Keep it Simple </b></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/82102/Lauderdale-By-the-Sea-Condo-modern-living-room-other-metros"><img alt="Lauderdale By the Sea Condo modern living room" border="0" height="392" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/82102_0_8-2668-modern-living-room.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/82102/Lauderdale-By-the-Sea-Condo-modern-living-room-other-metros">Toby Zack Designs</a></span></div><b></b>Stark simplicity has its advantages if you have an interestingly shaped/coloured table.  The lines/colour alone can be the statement.  Add a little detail to the top and you've completed the job. I love the starkness of the black table and accompanying mirror in this very contemporary white and black room.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/51103/Shoshana-Gosselin--living-room-other-metros"><img alt="Shoshana Gosselin living room" border="0" height="699" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/51103_0_8-6428--living-room.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/living-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a>  <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/4305/Shoshana-Gosselin" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Shoshana Gosselin</a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;">Keeping the display  on the top of this table simple in colour and quantity allows the table to be the design statement. Design tip:  paint out the vent under the table. It is much too obvious. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b> Create extra storage</b></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/75497/Sylvia-Martin-asian-living-room-other-metros"><img alt="Sylvia Martin asian living room" border="0" height="750" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/75497_0_8-4494-asian-living-room.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/photographer/birmingham" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"> photographer</a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/10228/Sylvia-Martin" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Sylvia Martin</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">In smaller rooms a console table with or without a shelf can solve some of your storage problems.  Of course the trick is to come up with interesting ways to do this. Stacked trunks and suitcases are a creative solution as are baskets.<small> </small></div><br /><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/51922/Sweet-as-a-Candy-eclectic-hall-other-metros"><img alt="Sweet as a Candy eclectic hall" border="0" height="749" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/51922_0_8-6681-eclectic-hall.jpg" width="500" /></a><small> </small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/51922/Sweet-as-a-Candy-eclectic-hall-other-metros">source</a></div><div style="text-align: left;">The use of white unifies this arrangement  while the addition of green livens things up and creates a soft contrast.<b> </b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><b>Store  extra seating</b><br /><b> </b><b> </b></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/76410/buffet-table-inspiration-set-1--entry-other-metros"><img alt="buffet table inspiration set 1 entry" border="0" height="462" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/76410_0_8-7653--entry.jpg" width="311" /></a><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/76410/buffet-table-inspiration-set-1--entry-other-metros">Houzz</a></b></div>Tuck away extra seating by filling the space under the table with upholstered ottomans or 18 inch cubes.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/65544/Glenn-Gissler-Design-contemporary-entry-other-metros"><img alt="Glenn Gissler Design contemporary entry" border="0" height="333" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/65544_0_8-7974-contemporary-entry.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/65544/Glenn-Gissler-Design-contemporary-entry-other-metros">Glenn Gissler Designs </a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I love this arrangement.  The ottoman is a good size for the space under the table.  There should be breathing room on both sides.  Stuffing in an oversized piece  will not give you the polished look you want. There is a nice play of dark against light and the arrangement on the table top works very well in terms of colour, scale and texture.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/75306/Entry-modern-entry-other-metros"><img alt="Entry modern entry" border="0" height="569" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/75306_0_8-4549-modern-entry.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/modern/entry" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/9722/Rachel-Reider-Interiors" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Rachel Reider Interiors</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small> </small>Don't let limited space stop you from having an interesting and inviting  arrangement in a foyer or entrance.  By keeping the line of a table simple and using a monochromatic scheme you can have a lot going on in a limited space. It's also refreshing to see this combination with light wood.  </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/76171/Upper-East-Side-contemporary-bedroom-new-york"><img alt="Upper East Side contemporary bedroom" border="0" height="600" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/76171_0_8-5107-contemporary-bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/76171/Upper-East-Side-contemporary-bedroom-new-york"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">Houzz</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Not many people would consider a console table as a night table, but this works very well because it is smaller in scale and the stool tucks in nicely .  Just pull it out and it's ready for use. The green looks so refreshing next to the wood tones.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/81284/Condo-Entry-contemporary-entry-other-metros"><img alt="Condo Entry contemporary entry" border="0" height="333" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/81284_0_8-6318-contemporary-entry.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/10937/Forum-Phi" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Forum Phi</a></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>When you place a table behind a sofa you can still think about it as a place to store extra seating.  <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/90896/Stairway-Detail-2-traditional-family-room-dallas"><img alt="Stairway Detail 2 traditional family room" border="0" height="731" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/90896_0_8-7891-traditional-family-room.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/11169/Cristi-Holcombe" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Cristi Holcombe</a></small></div><br />Paired chairs on either side of  a console table also work well.   To flank a table with chairs you need roughly 6-8 feet of linear space. The scale of the chairs and the table should be in harmony.  A bulky table would overwhelm  smaller chairs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWb4xqzu-rAno7m5u-GuRqDBDcow3ASXjJdXtEnqfwHEuVye2RInVjZtBlMk3Urg2ovO2kWKYN6AC4qvKr_yEujsgOs4_Djdt3dYHiVs_d5FF8WZyMxjB0k8Lxad8_9lRSreoeKEj5p8rM/s1600/housebeautiful+LR1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWb4xqzu-rAno7m5u-GuRqDBDcow3ASXjJdXtEnqfwHEuVye2RInVjZtBlMk3Urg2ovO2kWKYN6AC4qvKr_yEujsgOs4_Djdt3dYHiVs_d5FF8WZyMxjB0k8Lxad8_9lRSreoeKEj5p8rM/s640/housebeautiful+LR1.jpg" width="492" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">House Beautiful via <a href="http://www.projectprettyblog.com/2010/04/statement-console-table-2-ways.html">Project Pretty </a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This same arrangement can be used behind a long sofa.  </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/76411/buffet-table-inspiration-set-1--entry-other-metros"><img alt="buffet table inspiration set 1 entry" border="0" height="618" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/76411_0_8-7670--entry.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/76411/buffet-table-inspiration-set-1--entry-other-metros">Houzz </a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> And sometimes one chair is best especially when the table is near a corner. </div>

Take one console table and...

Console tables are versatile pieces of furniture. Most often they are used as sofa tables, but such a narrow application limits  this amazin...

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Focus on the small things

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhamOq_Rh6SSZqOYnOBOEQdhtG2t6nMxPpdsQKsIqXvvg2JDQySTnUBrbmtqlLGzPd6Y2L-j5F1Vxl1HPHQ_OsK6VKI_SQ2E6dkrWrjSuQtCSE8kIlVDrTGeCqGsq3jd50iY9XJnYkJeATb/s1600/DSCN598166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinBNsuwbMmeE4N5edQAVQ2k1ebdw8iGuo_IAIUZ-gk3A-Msx1vcHEgUFtyPhtMhKVLklWbv6fjjztyd6A98fzvzLrRiAqHHKsB4P8bVWQVtQRurlIOZ32TLex-_P0h5-Lmxo3wvQ-dVC0C/s1600/ss_101201714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinBNsuwbMmeE4N5edQAVQ2k1ebdw8iGuo_IAIUZ-gk3A-Msx1vcHEgUFtyPhtMhKVLklWbv6fjjztyd6A98fzvzLrRiAqHHKsB4P8bVWQVtQRurlIOZ32TLex-_P0h5-Lmxo3wvQ-dVC0C/s400/ss_101201714.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/color/colors/3-step-makeover-add-color-with-accents/?sssdmh=dm17.517205&esrc=nwdc040611&email=3204547199">BHG</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Keeping a light  palette doesn't mean a boring room. It's all about what you do after you choose your large pieces and paint the walls. If you like the calm serenity of a muted palette, you have already arrived; if you are someone who likes change and colour , think about adding personality with accessories. Some things can stay the same over the long term, but others can be moved around or added. There's a long inspiration list when it comes to adding colour to a room.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Ready made panels</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYWHJp7UMe8TOlRb9oA-RLdJQ8I0X4IhacJWSnzEzTlI0Nghe-IJwNt3CQeLUYr_pZkReHm8i2eHfkrbxu-loex494Bc5PK34pX4lxIJKeuQe2jKpnPeElS84604XZBdAUEpu_AdSUpnpi/s1600/ss_101201718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you usually tire of draperies  quickly, custom draperies may not be your best investment. Think ready made panels.  For a hundred dollars you can purchase lined ready made panels that can have several lives if you are a DIY er.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ufHOj6QyJ8sBhZshYO-4MfHEX-SlVCbw_ghobyasEywsH5pKF2X12ml0Oe9zxCxQmJG3uO_9Xge3I0tRgzYOJ56D0XmKTCbMUudpRH4MvMy7Ma8DAtoYGCb56dr7uomCteaiZnOjkYry/s1600/grommet+blue.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ufHOj6QyJ8sBhZshYO-4MfHEX-SlVCbw_ghobyasEywsH5pKF2X12ml0Oe9zxCxQmJG3uO_9Xge3I0tRgzYOJ56D0XmKTCbMUudpRH4MvMy7Ma8DAtoYGCb56dr7uomCteaiZnOjkYry/s320/grommet+blue.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Combine two types of panels on one rod to introduce additional pattern. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6E3YCsg7w9vVsfLfYOlIRWbDwm_XBJdKrJ76ddSv-463_pPB8M3NotyZPWSWbLTXsvuADfPhx5p6i0OdmPMaky0QL7VaCaA_ZGy1LDhCTHolviSePz5Bo_sq5epXjAJEdZ4Me7ef7AOP8/s1600/Original_Bedroom-Window-Treaments-Mary-Susan-Bicicchi_s4x3_lg1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6E3YCsg7w9vVsfLfYOlIRWbDwm_XBJdKrJ76ddSv-463_pPB8M3NotyZPWSWbLTXsvuADfPhx5p6i0OdmPMaky0QL7VaCaA_ZGy1LDhCTHolviSePz5Bo_sq5epXjAJEdZ4Me7ef7AOP8/s320/Original_Bedroom-Window-Treaments-Mary-Susan-Bicicchi_s4x3_lg1.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Use them as a backdrop for a headboard or to visually centralize a window in a room.Tired of that application? Transform the fabric into a runner &/or pillows. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>A throw</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Not only is a throw a serviceable  object in home decor, it can be used to brighten a dull corner in any room. The splash of deep red in the throw and the flowers  above adds energy to this  black and white room. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Fresh flowers </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Nothing surpasses flowers when it comes to beauty, colour, form and texture.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNMvSyjo156qL42zRK3eLpI0_22i1XjMEK-8KHyC0P13qV572-RNIgpZ_M6zVufhap1alLTFduKpuNYLcVFImc9svXZ7SaMYEwY8HrMY3S_ENfeaiUcWHUIeSHT3D9jWQtKt0UNq4aGLtN/s1600/ss_101201711.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNMvSyjo156qL42zRK3eLpI0_22i1XjMEK-8KHyC0P13qV572-RNIgpZ_M6zVufhap1alLTFduKpuNYLcVFImc9svXZ7SaMYEwY8HrMY3S_ENfeaiUcWHUIeSHT3D9jWQtKt0UNq4aGLtN/s400/ss_101201711.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fresh flowers in a crystal vase integrates well with any style of decor. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>A brightly coloured table </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvWl7s9r06CFkuqHemJUsIu-ujEU_KbqDwpMT4oEAAfI0rNcdCfgUMymqvx2h_1bkWH_orFG1EmbLJ_OGxJbhq5Co2TAb2XqlNlbu6hIktKyZJJDLhjhJdauPlrNAmp35TP92FsdwpVTO/s1600/ss_101201712.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvWl7s9r06CFkuqHemJUsIu-ujEU_KbqDwpMT4oEAAfI0rNcdCfgUMymqvx2h_1bkWH_orFG1EmbLJ_OGxJbhq5Co2TAb2XqlNlbu6hIktKyZJJDLhjhJdauPlrNAmp35TP92FsdwpVTO/s400/ss_101201712.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Area Rugs</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Whether large or small, a bright area rug can anchor neutral palettes and provide a starting point for the addition of other colours.This is an adventurous use of red and orange which would not be a personal choice for me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Colourful pillows</b> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG1NNlnF93T9X9HKvTBegYz704tkfIVfTtIWdSsL67Y54KupWFo-i1ZXlgxef5W9x_gudOabIY57HyAMzi-sXNC22-cz0ON_DsHeDr-7Hcd4c9h0Um1q0L83eqqf5Vv9VT_JyWUMiEEtu1/s1600/ss_101201702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG1NNlnF93T9X9HKvTBegYz704tkfIVfTtIWdSsL67Y54KupWFo-i1ZXlgxef5W9x_gudOabIY57HyAMzi-sXNC22-cz0ON_DsHeDr-7Hcd4c9h0Um1q0L83eqqf5Vv9VT_JyWUMiEEtu1/s320/ss_101201702.jpg" width="288" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibmV25P4JfWv8qXz8rA_Yayh8Rk5D85ecGqvrAieUql0kGHCENHl1eKz1smrsCCNDpd_o_bHx7NiOaQK3q9u-O0tLMhG0PQo7usDlQU13I2iJHzyGo83_lwgRFrsYNg56Gjzgg4PVWVZfZ/s1600/113228_a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><b> Art Work </b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKPsMNUtSc10E7762QcKGSNrBtqMrvMllKqfcIdfbC9e5fNrmRdwV1VW8H7VKg9da3Ss4svwOEC0SYJC2BOVjfcK24EovmO7C_h0DnAWWGdeEqY6OQCLRQ9Y4_FTPMJFLkUl_r_nwj9Vc6/s1600/red-poppies-480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKPsMNUtSc10E7762QcKGSNrBtqMrvMllKqfcIdfbC9e5fNrmRdwV1VW8H7VKg9da3Ss4svwOEC0SYJC2BOVjfcK24EovmO7C_h0DnAWWGdeEqY6OQCLRQ9Y4_FTPMJFLkUl_r_nwj9Vc6/s320/red-poppies-480.jpg" width="216" /></a></div> I think this art work would look good in our model room.  I like the addition of the blue and yellow to the orange red palette.  The right art work can bring any room up several notches.  <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Let's have another look at that room with colour added.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWpSRpmQXOwtxuTpASFJiMuvttYIXSTmSUUMu7aG9N-9oLK-Z45eFoJvg8vqDyK1wnewjRQ5UbKCAnYnXpsyfsAecNnMeIhjJnY3Nbu5_Gt2FyGOOzMcOKt_z0fI-YHVb4gDptPHffN2id/s1600/113052_a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span id="goog_961663149"></span><span id="goog_961663150"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRZl2z1A9zMOuv9XFrxSSkjVHegvix5KDO-HpbDgs4tKWRm2XiWl2ftph6O_ADdc0VDBe57KPwdmZcK8Vdtlu2z6b5wKYs23mEvBA6_yqfdP5uY82Cecr46hdU8zFZ-2_-K2AyAnI1CBs/s1600/ss_101201710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdRZl2z1A9zMOuv9XFrxSSkjVHegvix5KDO-HpbDgs4tKWRm2XiWl2ftph6O_ADdc0VDBe57KPwdmZcK8Vdtlu2z6b5wKYs23mEvBA6_yqfdP5uY82Cecr46hdU8zFZ-2_-K2AyAnI1CBs/s1600/ss_101201710.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> BHG</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvWl7s9r06CFkuqHemJUsIu-ujEU_KbqDwpMT4oEAAfI0rNcdCfgUMymqvx2h_1bkWH_orFG1EmbLJ_OGxJbhq5Co2TAb2XqlNlbu6hIktKyZJJDLhjhJdauPlrNAmp35TP92FsdwpVTO/s1600/ss_101201712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Adding reds and oranges with touches of yellow in the tulips makes everything sing. Does that black lamp bother anyone but me? Check out the next pic to see what happens when it is removed. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4knuDxQAvFXY7P6T_RaDwG7uqEq1hWWxavKDpwOa4mUi3ndRu17LKtWajHyh3Vft2sygdKTLMTGq3AhFVW3MPxlzCfA-8rx9esLhOWJkqHJz76EZ1HdtIVuvVpqr-bbpM4eufOFPPxLFy/s1600/ss_101201709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4knuDxQAvFXY7P6T_RaDwG7uqEq1hWWxavKDpwOa4mUi3ndRu17LKtWajHyh3Vft2sygdKTLMTGq3AhFVW3MPxlzCfA-8rx9esLhOWJkqHJz76EZ1HdtIVuvVpqr-bbpM4eufOFPPxLFy/s1600/ss_101201709.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> We're getting more adventurous with the addition of two dark red end tables. This look may not be for everyone but it is a good example  of how to layer colour over a basically neutral palette. Check out additional rooms at Better Homes and Gardens link under the top photo. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>

Focus on the small things

  BHG Keeping a light  palette doesn't mean a boring room. It's all about what you do after you choose your large pieces and paint t...

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Think iris or allium

<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-yndcweD20hOLrab76TD8wEhJ5oifiR3tr6hkY1l1fn6lgJZh_xl4UMTpfYetblhrReo5zuyEkDlOI8Kt4TuCsz88cJ0sRRMsDYnQiF2mmaRTrmNoOtUL8PO40D2UGYh0xN5rjkKVPGQJ/s1600/DSCN009766.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Do we develop an interest in a colour because we are exposed to it in different environments or do we like colours naturally and then see them everywhere we look?  A good question, but the answer is really irrelevant.  We are attracted to certain colours and having them around us adds  a positive note to our lives.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> I  encourage clients to pay attention to their colour voice. If someone comes to me and likes deep, earthy colours (really not in the  top ten right now), I don't try to convince them that light and airy is what is current.  It doesn't make any sense to paint your home in colours  you don't like just to be "in style".  Colour trends come and go, but if you look at really interesting  environments you will see that the most obvious characteristic they share  is their reflection of  the personality of the individuals living there.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> I love purple!  Do I love it because it is  a hot colour choice right now?  No, I've always loved it and it has existed in various ways in my home for many years. I love purple in all its guises and it just so happens that I love flowers and there are many purple varieties that are close to my heart...<br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-yndcweD20hOLrab76TD8wEhJ5oifiR3tr6hkY1l1fn6lgJZh_xl4UMTpfYetblhrReo5zuyEkDlOI8Kt4TuCsz88cJ0sRRMsDYnQiF2mmaRTrmNoOtUL8PO40D2UGYh0xN5rjkKVPGQJ/s1600/DSCN009766.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-yndcweD20hOLrab76TD8wEhJ5oifiR3tr6hkY1l1fn6lgJZh_xl4UMTpfYetblhrReo5zuyEkDlOI8Kt4TuCsz88cJ0sRRMsDYnQiF2mmaRTrmNoOtUL8PO40D2UGYh0xN5rjkKVPGQJ/s320/DSCN009766.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlU-HSgI-ioQc8HrT3Xa9mGJGYvOAAo83WqzfUjoV0_MAUoOGc1kkoO8AimPk6-KLeJlPtZoXDld4GnMYcbuvpEqw1_dVKSQa7sKYl6szBPPt2K4N437ds36Kx_k2LMVqdCM59k2bx-_h/s1600/DSCN291266.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlU-HSgI-ioQc8HrT3Xa9mGJGYvOAAo83WqzfUjoV0_MAUoOGc1kkoO8AimPk6-KLeJlPtZoXDld4GnMYcbuvpEqw1_dVKSQa7sKYl6szBPPt2K4N437ds36Kx_k2LMVqdCM59k2bx-_h/s320/DSCN291266.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ivzhkbRX3f1V4vMxB63_KV-PGy2Q7VId1PeDfuH1YM3KdDF6n2kfZN-2RvkzfBxPY0XdYn1X2urtEor2LroWz8swa-gDXEjYeU_zgWJ32uPUFbbo10v2F1ssW7EqI5PsLw-n0tgKYvtU/s1600/DSCN290566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ivzhkbRX3f1V4vMxB63_KV-PGy2Q7VId1PeDfuH1YM3KdDF6n2kfZN-2RvkzfBxPY0XdYn1X2urtEor2LroWz8swa-gDXEjYeU_zgWJ32uPUFbbo10v2F1ssW7EqI5PsLw-n0tgKYvtU/s320/DSCN290566.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"> In my garden...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_YtG9gNLML4fVJ91GaL867DOG-l_1-H4-uHNmmTNkf4G6qTKEFQ_aiHbexIDNvFJgJeGvoZuKm-nVrm1hty3oguXvU1Hf2oa76WO8qPKZobzMRtykxAJEbJJfI-9OjAZpqQ4QPVcNV0d3/s1600/lvg-rm-4-0003_final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>What hue looks best with purple?  Just look above, the answer is always in mother nature. Green in my book. If you want a neutral,  gray is best.  </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div> There are many ways to interpret a purple green colour scheme.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/130602/cabinet-contemporary-living-room-other-metros"><br /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_YtG9gNLML4fVJ91GaL867DOG-l_1-H4-uHNmmTNkf4G6qTKEFQ_aiHbexIDNvFJgJeGvoZuKm-nVrm1hty3oguXvU1Hf2oa76WO8qPKZobzMRtykxAJEbJJfI-9OjAZpqQ4QPVcNV0d3/s1600/lvg-rm-4-0003_final.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_YtG9gNLML4fVJ91GaL867DOG-l_1-H4-uHNmmTNkf4G6qTKEFQ_aiHbexIDNvFJgJeGvoZuKm-nVrm1hty3oguXvU1Hf2oa76WO8qPKZobzMRtykxAJEbJJfI-9OjAZpqQ4QPVcNV0d3/s400/lvg-rm-4-0003_final.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Canadian House and Home</span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/130602/cabinet-contemporary-living-room-other-metros"><br /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh16mlAuZ6EU-QstxWZ6CQ6OyBLnNlDfkQk80ZSEClKFuqRBCo3kvTPhSGXcKaly_IiJcXPY_ZkgL-W5DCUUr8BI5BNbD1LrP8EIVeHBMPQ_Jm3sxy5fb7XJLBHu0kw-DSCppnRzIHGwDe6/s1600/07PinkBrown.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh16mlAuZ6EU-QstxWZ6CQ6OyBLnNlDfkQk80ZSEClKFuqRBCo3kvTPhSGXcKaly_IiJcXPY_ZkgL-W5DCUUr8BI5BNbD1LrP8EIVeHBMPQ_Jm3sxy5fb7XJLBHu0kw-DSCppnRzIHGwDe6/s400/07PinkBrown.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;">Try it with a little dash of pink thrown in and make the green chartreuse.  </span></small><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk2NGUFKLBl6kplArF2mxHGc6r1juudBwsiaXPqS98tR6I-yuIRhDpn_MKdjpg7meHyZ7CTVCNVo_aBXng9wVlUATDc0EZRp8B_1k9jwM-X8ewx-SC0_MCno5GtJcG_oAk4XTQax86EYVL/s1600/603826_L1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk2NGUFKLBl6kplArF2mxHGc6r1juudBwsiaXPqS98tR6I-yuIRhDpn_MKdjpg7meHyZ7CTVCNVo_aBXng9wVlUATDc0EZRp8B_1k9jwM-X8ewx-SC0_MCno5GtJcG_oAk4XTQax86EYVL/s400/603826_L1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://uktv.co.uk/home/dgiped/kw/121">lovehome</a></span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> A white sofa permits interesting wall colours.  While I love every shade of purple I could not live with it on my walls unless it was so toned it reads as gray.  </span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small></div><small><br /></small></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/75269/Master-Bedroom-modern-bedroom-boston"><img alt="Master Bedroom modern bedroom" border="0" height="583" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/75269_0_8-4631-modern-bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/modern/bedroom" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/9722/Rachel-Reider-Interiors" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Rachel Reider Interiors</a></small><br /><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;">Think about the blue green of the sea on a quiet summer day for a different take on a purple green combo. </span> </small></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/130602/cabinet-contemporary-living-room-other-metros"><img alt="cabinet contemporary living room" border="0" height="411" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/130602_0_8-9772-contemporary-living-room.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/contemporary/living-room" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">contemporary living room design</a> by  <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/17200/Designing-Home" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Designing Home</a></small><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Smokey lilac always looks good with sage green. </span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4q9N2OQdwzWhmvKKhnqg3Vd4NXNJPy_RYrRKvulCPjyVOX86dOCtz3vcKVEO72zZ4QMRzerO-E0aPv-XVEBOca7ma3ZbTKjiaZHDWuoc_OTaU5qSwsdf1czTKyL5zbgAdsQzt1DnHn_8T/s1600/2c5936ae4d5a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4q9N2OQdwzWhmvKKhnqg3Vd4NXNJPy_RYrRKvulCPjyVOX86dOCtz3vcKVEO72zZ4QMRzerO-E0aPv-XVEBOca7ma3ZbTKjiaZHDWuoc_OTaU5qSwsdf1czTKyL5zbgAdsQzt1DnHn_8T/s400/2c5936ae4d5a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.decorpad.com/photo.htm?photoId=31391&relatedPhotoId=29898&index=3">decorpad </a></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Sometimes a  neutral with a slight greenish undertone is just enough to do the trick. </span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFXGlVgIOCW5BQd01ihJLP0OjlYL21j87r0dekFJHmwbXk-0g0u_J21E8GjUWdY4ub-sD8OUCoPwQ1ReDwLmkvTRMN-4BXOmTrQ6tQIQssBKuH45zC0Aq6PBhsSgTFU7zE6GPHDcl3gOJL/s1600/16625_EX1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFXGlVgIOCW5BQd01ihJLP0OjlYL21j87r0dekFJHmwbXk-0g0u_J21E8GjUWdY4ub-sD8OUCoPwQ1ReDwLmkvTRMN-4BXOmTrQ6tQIQssBKuH45zC0Aq6PBhsSgTFU7zE6GPHDcl3gOJL/s640/16625_EX1.jpg" width="486" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://uktv.co.uk/home/gallery/aid/643326">lovehome</a></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: small;"> </span></div></div>

Think iris or allium

  Do we develop an interest in a colour because we are exposed to it in different environments or do we like colours naturally and then see ...

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Summer house DIY

<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">As I sit here in the middle of a raging snowstorm, I'm thinking about my summer house which I want to open next month. Maybe optimism will pay off!  This is the time of year I run through my "to do" list of what I want to accomplish in the coming season.  Most summer home/cottage owners want an inviting, homey atmosphere that can be accomplished on a budget.  I'm no different. Our place is small and quite ordinary looking from the outside, but  we have a million dollar view.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> We are perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean on the Bonavista Peninsula in Newfoundland and through the seasons we see icebergs, seabirds, whales and beautiful full moons.  One October I even saw my first display of the Northern Lights.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Come for a virtual visit. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4XYy9P1hCbS8v-21l_SbmCDocOeoWNI0aIyIAQIYJgddFPpTo-KT5fEJbn7SgK8sVjOGC9wjf72b2jzC3ZXtDsx0LVHulBOTY_wQkbkuqwXVj-CyTU6HLhFH0THQ17po5ui0SqQ_jL6sC/s1600/DSCN17426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4XYy9P1hCbS8v-21l_SbmCDocOeoWNI0aIyIAQIYJgddFPpTo-KT5fEJbn7SgK8sVjOGC9wjf72b2jzC3ZXtDsx0LVHulBOTY_wQkbkuqwXVj-CyTU6HLhFH0THQ17po5ui0SqQ_jL6sC/s400/DSCN17426.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;">View outside my studio window mid summer</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;">  </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv9x8p3lHhS_OQHtlhqiZoi_2uojosgUPzFdrP1ZuYh6SNfGod352tkmqjIY9st7yGmKg4DT4x2ZWj7Z2Ik_F-MR35l4sSBAMJYG4T_wn58dMwK5qojak5Fw5mY6Mgz_CfgpAwJlmSYGWF/s1600/DSCN0142666.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv9x8p3lHhS_OQHtlhqiZoi_2uojosgUPzFdrP1ZuYh6SNfGod352tkmqjIY9st7yGmKg4DT4x2ZWj7Z2Ik_F-MR35l4sSBAMJYG4T_wn58dMwK5qojak5Fw5mY6Mgz_CfgpAwJlmSYGWF/s400/DSCN0142666.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;">Visitors in May</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKuG7ClHXLwmVBiMowzoI5xAbQosEcC2uzXzXp9zvAdwYUm4w3BFHfxCX3DYhCPuGsuDtkTQ1KFGUlhnDTAl9g0i0R317Cuur2mM8BK1O2jDqqmd25AB7rfsn50zKTt7j1MADdNwmmJEF/s1600/Rainbow+on+the+Atlantic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaKuG7ClHXLwmVBiMowzoI5xAbQosEcC2uzXzXp9zvAdwYUm4w3BFHfxCX3DYhCPuGsuDtkTQ1KFGUlhnDTAl9g0i0R317Cuur2mM8BK1O2jDqqmd25AB7rfsn50zKTt7j1MADdNwmmJEF/s400/Rainbow+on+the+Atlantic.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;">After the storm</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQkLFoOhA9uHyNG9fqausKmMaq4jhW7peDjcYfC9BWxRbueRflrlcgod_GUzBVvp8vEznF8IkXobo7TNm7zOXGtF1-mFaHJW5jc9Y3oow6mt-xuY2HpGMCus6XAIESA-xOVyFGdk6vi5l7/s1600/DSCN0076.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQkLFoOhA9uHyNG9fqausKmMaq4jhW7peDjcYfC9BWxRbueRflrlcgod_GUzBVvp8vEznF8IkXobo7TNm7zOXGtF1-mFaHJW5jc9Y3oow6mt-xuY2HpGMCus6XAIESA-xOVyFGdk6vi5l7/s400/DSCN0076.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;">Full moon over Bonavista</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">Before we ever put the plans for the house on paper, the colour scheme  was etched in my mind from my time spend in the community when I was younger.  The inside is a continuation of the outside - ocean, pink/purple slate/ fall meadow and fog. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1LXymYU64Zm04tGC7QJ5VgcPOekjMHlv54Y_a8Ou9SsKqlZ3YSJRnhaV0ykRp_sk-LKdpb0MpQ-pV1HupcBSxvo16pku_kN2oCbKUbjA2gJB5KSnCngfKzCxl39h62RRK9_RCSgzWMObq/s1600/DSCN468166.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1LXymYU64Zm04tGC7QJ5VgcPOekjMHlv54Y_a8Ou9SsKqlZ3YSJRnhaV0ykRp_sk-LKdpb0MpQ-pV1HupcBSxvo16pku_kN2oCbKUbjA2gJB5KSnCngfKzCxl39h62RRK9_RCSgzWMObq/s400/DSCN468166.jpg" width="391" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">It's a back door kind of place (note the dishes in the rack) so we enter into the kitchen area.  Only slate could be used on the kitchen floor because it is a prominent feature of the whole area and works so well with the other colours.  I choose  purple  for an accent wall behind the cabinets which I doctored  with help at  my local paint shop. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">The cabinets were created on a shoestring budget.  My husband made the boxes out of white melamine that was already faced for use in shelving. We bought the doors at a salvage store unfinished. The layout of the kitchen was determined by the door sizes available.   I made a wash from liberal amounts of white and dabs of  the other colours in the house.  The floors are local spruce with the same wash, protected by five coats of water base varathane.  My knowledge of colour mixing gained through art was very helpful for this DIY. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">The butcher block counters are made from maple with strips of purple heart wood.  I would like to say the island had some exotic finish but its plain old laminate. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">  The beautiful stained glass that provides light from the porch area was created by my  on-site handyman. We are waiting for our second hand refrigerator to die so we can fill the space up with a new one - we've been waiting for nine years!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuTAjKDfs-2IzZ-B2-TkwWwCO3e6FFt0BOyt9B1TE7Qo90yTZPQCXJ3f0-6Fg70ti4t5RAt0DxUjrFq13QIDIVxoZvj1tuVLOnRzIG4d_N6YOLGN94nLyTbhV-TwS70ZKRwFDLoxgL0XJ5/s1600/DSCN001066.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuTAjKDfs-2IzZ-B2-TkwWwCO3e6FFt0BOyt9B1TE7Qo90yTZPQCXJ3f0-6Fg70ti4t5RAt0DxUjrFq13QIDIVxoZvj1tuVLOnRzIG4d_N6YOLGN94nLyTbhV-TwS70ZKRwFDLoxgL0XJ5/s400/DSCN001066.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;">The table  and bench were made from lumber salvaged from a hundred year old building that was being demolished.  There's an inlay of purple heart in the back of the bench and on either end of the table.  The dining area is across from the kitchen and the purple accent wall continues.  Our mid century modern chairs were saved  from a trip to the dump when a local company was renovating their offices.  They keep moving around the living area.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSWI-yiJo_MeFa8CntubuMUQAmXM83vKzbR-fZl51c8CLDu_OIM9VD-H_mGTm_2HpRPbzhGDpjjCLN_vFKlB3pXmYMlyA8HHJG-gYfXmVUpmo8tcheJ9mB3z4DvVYenI2jsOYoMHw5wo-/s1600/DSCN497366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSWI-yiJo_MeFa8CntubuMUQAmXM83vKzbR-fZl51c8CLDu_OIM9VD-H_mGTm_2HpRPbzhGDpjjCLN_vFKlB3pXmYMlyA8HHJG-gYfXmVUpmo8tcheJ9mB3z4DvVYenI2jsOYoMHw5wo-/s400/DSCN497366.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Last summer I covered them in blue geometric fabric and moved them under the window for a change of pace. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This spring the furniture in this seating area will be replaced by ... </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"> <img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI9yOrq58p2FRsmjcCgPIJ1xFAwr76fxTHXT2S476m6a-zI-VjRcD6r_vXwXY71OLeMye_HxbgKD2vsY-M4omerJlqyUfqEPRIabGPXHjjK6fconeh3BaFh_tEA-LNepkMKw6FMlSO-1Yc/s320/ektorp-tullsta-armchair-beige__39607_PE132378_S4.jpg" width="320" /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> .. two new IKEA chairs soon to be ordered.  I'll get my white slipcovers after all (our guests are usually clean).</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi74RwXA1oWxs3kkFvbCcQ5x8gy-ZxH7tnIozbBwiq2kDP_nwnaVLE0eNrjzThviR9Y5EE8or3KSPLjCALhcC7m-XMPnbBdFiMUnt8UXA0U4VeBtekPqtA7LNHhkHT63vDhRW5sfeZfJmxQ/s1600/DSCN559566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi74RwXA1oWxs3kkFvbCcQ5x8gy-ZxH7tnIozbBwiq2kDP_nwnaVLE0eNrjzThviR9Y5EE8or3KSPLjCALhcC7m-XMPnbBdFiMUnt8UXA0U4VeBtekPqtA7LNHhkHT63vDhRW5sfeZfJmxQ/s400/DSCN559566.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This newly made cabinet is headed to the summer place and will be placed between the two IKEA chairs. It was made for my living room in my other house but I want  a piece that is twice as large for that space.  Call the handyman.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiELXKASCKr4x6TFFZ-xGDNKbTfS7Gu3cxD_Hjxsw7IpU4IrneOCSlB5Haftp7nD8Xg3wa4j2kRYVZW2TBpr899nlhMbPAEYiQn_w3E4R7PE9lLLiLbWnMVIjTQiY7DHQoJ0lBlwSoEQDj/s1600/DSCN466266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiELXKASCKr4x6TFFZ-xGDNKbTfS7Gu3cxD_Hjxsw7IpU4IrneOCSlB5Haftp7nD8Xg3wa4j2kRYVZW2TBpr899nlhMbPAEYiQn_w3E4R7PE9lLLiLbWnMVIjTQiY7DHQoJ0lBlwSoEQDj/s400/DSCN466266.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> I still can't believe I bought this sofa! It is cuddly,  puffy and brownish - not at all like what I am attracted to. Function won out over form.I gave up on my dream of a white slip covered sofa as not conducive to gardening, wood working, hiking and painting.   This one was durable and cheap.  I'm learning to like it.   The trunk was built from scraps of wood by my father when I was a teenager.  It's now painted BM Piedmont Gray.  It still looks lost so it will move to my studio.  What to put there is the big question.  More updates later.  </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

Summer house DIY

As I sit here in the middle of a raging snowstorm, I'm thinking about my summer house which I want to open next month. Maybe optimism wi...

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