Spacing

When I read this article on Apartment Therapy, something clicked in my mind.  The light bulb went off and I instantly knew all the secrets of the universe (ok, maybe not the universe, but I swear angels were singing). The ultimate secret I learned? Spacing.  One word unlocked all the mystique around what makes a great looking room look great.  Kind of a no brainer, I know, but seriously these tips will change your life.  So take a look at my favorite tips below and re-examine the photos above...I swear, the angels will be singing. 

Dining Room (image 1)
-Area rug and dining table- A rug should span about 36" wider on all sides of the table to allow chairs to pull out easily without catching
-Space between dining chairs: Ideally provide about 24" between chairs to prevent hitting elbows and to allow people to slide chairs in and out without any collisions or bruised knuckles. 


Living Room (image 2)
-Distance between a sofa and coffee table: Allow around 18" between the table and sofa edge to give enough leg room but to be able to set down drinks or reach appetizers without straining. Coffee table heights vary greatly, but a good rule is to keep the table height and seat height within 4 inches of each other.
-Distance between seating furniture: Aim to provide between 3.5' and 10' between seating options to help conversation flow without crowding a room.
-Area rugs and furniture: Too often area rugs end up feeling like bath mats. To keep your area rug from feeling random, at least the front two legs of a sofa or chair should rest on the rug.
-Side table and sofa height: In general, an end table should be approximately the same height as the arm of your sofa or chair. This allows guests to set down or reach for drinks without straining, and it also lends a more cohesive feel to the room. (image 3)

Think outside of the nightstand

Ok...I admit.  Totally lame title.  It's true.  I wanted to combine "think outside of the box" with nightstand...and this is what I came up with.  Creative, I know.  Anyways, sometimes a thrifty gal, or guy has to improvise when it comes to nightstands.  I have one, and it's more of a side table than a nightstand.  With that top image as my source of inspiration, here is what I came up with as suitable substitutes for a nightstand (check the sources of the images below, but I encourage you to peep your local flea market or craigslist for some real steals).

1, 2, 3, 4, 5 , top image from Rue Mag found on Coco + Kelley

Rue cheat sheet

Image and tips via Rue Mag
The most recent issue of Rue Magazine is full of whimsical decor and gorgeous summertime parties, but the thing that resonated the most with me was their feature on PR firm Bollare.  Bollare's office is the perfect blend of modern design, punchy decor, and inspiring color.  I especially love their tips for creating the office of your dreams:

1. It's all about the natural light
2. Bright colors keeps people energized and motivated...no one likes a cube
3. Soften the edges of industrial loft spaces with rugs and pillows
4. Mix and match! Play with a variety of textures, colors, and patterns.

Lonny cheat sheet

Images and tips via Lonny Magazine 


Well, I FINALLY got around to reading the new Rue and not so new Lonny editions.  Boy were they chock full of gorgeous images or what??  But how in the hell is a normal person supposed emulate those awesome rooms...and actually live in them?  Well, look no further because today and tomorrow I'll be recapping my favorite tips from the issues, and hopefully share some inspiring images that should provide the ultimate cheat sheet.  In the May/June issue of Lonny, I thought Todd's tips for creating an elegant and understated space were right on the money.

1. Use antique pieces and artwork from different periods to create a mix.  For example, hang a modern picture over an antique console.
2. Always use the best things you can afford.  Quality over quantity!
3. Don't overthink or overdo it; a little can go a long way.
4. Edit, edit, edit.  A great room or a good design is always about editing and knowing when to stop! 

Pattern in the bedroom

My bedroom is typically currently a tranquil oasis.  With all white bedding and neutral wood tones, it's more of a Scandinavian retreat than a plethora of eye candy.  But I must say, I kind of LOVE these patterned bedrooms.  All I need is a simple through or a tribal pillow and I can add a bit of pizzaz to my otherwise drab boudoir.  Those pattern swatches above are from actual throws, check the links below for the source.  Whatcha think?  Have a favorite print that would go fabulously with my bight white bedding?

Bedroom 1 via The Decorista | Pattern 1 | Pattern 2 | Bedroom 2 via Sac St. | Bedroom 3 via the marion house | 

Styling

For some reason I keep coming back to these two images.  Now don't get me wrong, I know NOTHING about styling interiors or products (although I may try), but there is something about these photos that is just so appealing.  I'd like to think that either set-up would be fairly easy to recreate, and neither looks too styled or staged.  I'm thinking I need to save some glass bottles and print some black and white photos, stat. 

Image 1 via decor8 2 via apartment therapy

LACKing

What do all of these lovely Scandinavian rooms have in common?  The ever so lovely (and thrifty) LACK shelving from everyone's favorite Scandinavian home store: IKEA.  I love how ridiculously versatile these shelves are, from bedrooms to kitchens, you can't go wrong with these simple and affordable storage options.

PHOTO CREDITS: Image 1 via loving. living. small., 2 via Designspiration SK, 3 via The Decorista, 4 via from-london-with-love

Can I live here?

I am in love with this house tour.  Wouldn't change a thing.  I can't decide which is my favorite element, the bright artwork, the light infused rooms, or the modern design elements.  Not to mention, that Eames replica pyramid chair, and array silver bookcase from CB2 are affordable and versatile options for any home. To see the whole tour, check out one of my favorite interiors blog: French By Design.

Old is new

Confession:  See that arrow at the top of this drawing? Ya, that basic little black arrow pointing at that beautiful frame?  It probably took me about 45 min.  Yep, 45 frickin' minutes.  I may be Photoshopped challenged for now, but in no time at all I bet I'll be able to add other basic images (maybe I'll get crazy and add a star one of these days) in under an episode of Modern Family. A girl needs goals, right?  However, please note that stellar shading job I did (or hopefully I did such an outstanding job I'll be freelancing as an airbrush artist for the stars??)...I ended up having to "clone" and re-shade all around that cursed little arrow in a trial and error method for all of 45 min.

Enough of my Photoshop rant, and back to this awesome Old is New with a painted vintage frame and some sturdy twigs.  I think a wide range of variations could easily be adopted, including wooden dowels, decorative nails, etc, but this image is great inspiration for creating a gorgeous way to display your jewels. 

Image via Brass Razoo Boutique

Inspiration: Floors

All of these kitchens have floors I would kill for.  Ok, well, the last image just has a kick ass rug, but you have to admit, it's just as awesome as those tile floors.  What is your favorite part about these kitchens?  The rustic feel?  The amazing wood accents?  There are too many elements for me to choose just one, but those floors are definitely what made me look twice at these inspiring interiors.

Image 1 via Global Atelier 2 via Simply Seductive 3 via down and out chic

Est

There's a new online shelter magazine on the block and I am officially smitten.  Now, joining the ranks of Ivy & Piper, Adore, Lonny, Rue, High Gloss, and Matchbook, comes Est, an Australian publication I discovered on Claire's lovely blog.  Think Scandinavian design meets the Outback.  Yep, I'm officially in love.  And seriously, I'm never going to buy another glossy again.  With the quality of online publications these days, why waste the money and trees?  

Images via Est 

Leave me hanging

What do I love more than that yellow infused bedroom up top?  Well, not much.  But if I had to pick one stand-out, thrifty design fix, it would have to be the use of those pant hangers instead of frames.  I love how casual and unexpected it looks, and as you can see, it works in the living room just as well as the bedroom.

Image 1 via sfgirbybay 2 via apartment therapy

mirror, mirror

After looking at these 2 photos, I'm totally inspired to re-buy a couple of these simple mirrors I used in my dorm room (found at target or ikea).  These mirrors look 10 times chicer when in pairs or threes, providing visual interest and eliminating boring blank wall space without making the space seem cluttered.  Totally going to try this out.

Image 1 via delight by design 2 via sfgirbybay

sssh...it's a secret

So, I finally got around to watching Secrets From a Stylist with the ADORABLE Emily Henderson.  (The show is on HGTV on Saturday nights at 9pm, and those are images of rooms she has styled).  Not only is Emily hilarious and talented, but she breaks down her design process so anyone can follow along and imitate.  Using the concept of "layering," Emily creates interiors that are textured and rich, full of life, and a perfect reflection of the homeowners.  In just one episode I learned how to incorporate different design periods and styles into a cohesive looking room.  Seriously, this girl is a GENIUS.  And if this wasn't enough to get you hooked, Joy from oh joy! is getting an overhaul on her living room this Saturday!

images via hgtv 

This and That

via John Murphy Photographs

Another week has come and gone!  I'm super excited to spend some time at the White Elephant Sale this weekend in Oakland with my friend, Nicole.  For you Bay Area folks, you should totally join in on the fun!  The event is hosted by the Oakland Museum Women's Board, with all proceeds from the event going back to the museum.  The sale lasts Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm.  Get the rest of the details here. Rumor has it that you can find Frye boots for $5, and Jimmy Choo's for $30.  Unheard of, right?  I'm on the hunt for some huge frames, vintage artwork, and a starburst mirror.  Wish me luck!

In other news, I thought I would share Grace's (of Design*Sponge) "best of the best" in interiors.  Click here for the link.  And because we are totally the same person (Grace, the genius behind D*S; and me....oh, wait, maybe not...), I thought I would share with you my pinterest board of the "best of the best" in interiors according to KC!  Regardless, both links should provide heaps of inspiration, and tons of swoon worthy interiors!

Small Spaces

I love posting gorgeous lofts with open floor plans just as much as the next blogger, but it's hard to find their utility while I still think ramen is a suitable side dish.  Let's be real, I need inspiration for small spaces on a budget.  I'm currently looking periodically at places in LA just to see what's out there, and a studio is definitely on the table.  I loved living by myself, but it's so darn expensive.  So, a studio becomes a great alternative.  Unfortunately, it can be rather difficult to master the art of creating 3 rooms (bedroom, living room, dining room) out of 1 room, but I think Paul has it mastered.  Now this is a home tour I find truly inspiring! (via Apartment Therapy)

bookcase inspiration

A well styled bookcase can transform an entire room.  There are a few tricks and tips that can make a bookshelf seem more like a piece of art, rather than a place to simply store your books.  Here are some of my favorite styled bookcases:

| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 

blik

via bilk

I bet that first picture got you...it got me too.  I stumbled across these photos on my never ending quest for a headboard, and thought I had found my perfect inspiration.  But wait, it's fake?  No, I said to myself.  No way.  All of these wall decals are from the graphic design company bilk from Venice, CA.  Self-proclaimed "wall graphics for the commitment-phobic," all prints are self adhesive AND removable.  Perfect for the renter on a budget looking for some extra pizazz.  Most of the images I used are by designer Mina Javid.  But check out their entire list of designers to find something that is uniquely you.  I can't decide which decal I like best, but I guess my decor commitment phobia has finally met its match! 

Holiday Party

images via Apartment Therapy

Against my better judgement, I am hosting New Year's Even in my tiny Berkeley apartment.  Although it will definitely not be the soiree of the season, I feel the overwhelming need to decorate my apartment for the event (Thrifty Gal style of course...).  My budget is $100 and my theme is Winter Wonderland (as you can tell from the above pictures), inspired by the Cup of Jo post here.  So far, I have managed to spend around $50 on decor, with the remaining budget for booze and food.

Here is my shopping list thus far:

1.  NYE in a box $8 from Walgreens

2.  White and gold garland $4 from Walgreens

3.  Large ribbon $5 from Walgreens

4.  Glitter snowflakes $8 from Safeway

5. 6 Taper candles $1.50 from Walgreens

6.  2 yards of batting (to use as fake snow on table tops) $13

7.  6 Champagne flutes $13 from World Market 

8.  20 multicolored ornaments $0.99 from Urban Outfitters

9.  4 additional NYE tiaras $3 from Walgreens

Other decor items I already had:

1.  3 Strands of white lights

2.  1 strand of star shaped lights from IKEA

3.  6 Clear wine bottles to use as candle holders

4.  fake Christmas tree

To keep things simple for booze, I'm going to offer 1 house drink, beer, and champagne.  How did I find so much decor for such great prices?  I bought everything before noon on December 26th.  I tried to stay away from malls, and was totally successful with everything I found.  I'll be sure to post pictures from the party before my apartment (and guests) have seen better days.  FYI, posts might be few and far between for the rest of the week since my bf is here visiting for the next 6 days!  What are your plans for New Year's Eve?