Reclaimed wood works

<br /> Old is good. What is old can be new again with a little ingenuity, and I don't mind admitting that the art side of my brain has lots of that.   I think reclaimed wood  is beautiful, and this summer I made great finds on the beaches near our summer house.<br /><br /><i>Are you wondering how this connects to decor?  Keep reading! </i><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWUaf1u8iapukanaTAr0bB6Hpz_vlThvgod8JVi2nh9oL3QslnS28BINzJoqM9dJyv-K4c4xmAt2_W7638JRbO8lnWDPcEP85eDAoHlX1ONtzdJOC3MZixyLobnx4Z5NM6qBlaupYtOi3J/s1600/beach-debris-reclaimed-wood_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="reclaimed wood Newfoundland" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWUaf1u8iapukanaTAr0bB6Hpz_vlThvgod8JVi2nh9oL3QslnS28BINzJoqM9dJyv-K4c4xmAt2_W7638JRbO8lnWDPcEP85eDAoHlX1ONtzdJOC3MZixyLobnx4Z5NM6qBlaupYtOi3J/s400/beach-debris-reclaimed-wood_01.JPG" title=" Newfoundland beach reclaimed wood" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Atlantic Ocean beach wood</td></tr></tbody></table> Storm tossed and sea sanded house/shed remnants  were dragged home against my better half's judgement. At the time I answered the strong call emitted by these materials, but  I didn't know why I needed them.  My art often begins with the call of materials rather than with sketches and preconceived notions of a final product.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwGfGEPfFx41E_dr8DWCCvpg91oqeAVD37NeQbNDP7DB4P0FRonV758pQGz32S8vT94hxenNJqpVsdtEGUnjBLD9mzizgCFqLDQksfXqmKmRB6XNkeZOm9XUTyWeOEEHe4EWs-fxb87lK/s1600/workshop-Duntara-Ryall_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt=" Margaret Ryall Duntara workshop" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwGfGEPfFx41E_dr8DWCCvpg91oqeAVD37NeQbNDP7DB4P0FRonV758pQGz32S8vT94hxenNJqpVsdtEGUnjBLD9mzizgCFqLDQksfXqmKmRB6XNkeZOm9XUTyWeOEEHe4EWs-fxb87lK/s400/workshop-Duntara-Ryall_01.JPG" title="Duntara workshop" width="346" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not a pretty site/sight</td></tr></tbody></table><i>No this is not the home decor section! </i><br /><br />Move over hubby,  I am taking possessions of your precious workshed and tools.  Yep!  I know my way around drills, bandsaws, chopsaws and sanders and I discovered construction adhesive will stick most everything together. Drop paintbrushes, fine papers and canvas.  I have a new palette and perhaps a new series for exhibition.<br /><br />This one is my keeper.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheXSFv71cR14A3VTHUXhyphenhypheniZXHAuoNtbf7J5sFcUUdONl3mO0FwyiA_r7yGw2x39iXTRNQwBUYgjW7MQKlIes7WFhhmNRFGWhA9_6z_ieweBJsuQewtfj4ftJ_YWbmynjrV_zjTBiu9eegX/s1600/assemblage-beach-quilt-Ryall-2013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Reclaimed wood assemblage Beach Quilt Margaret Ryall " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheXSFv71cR14A3VTHUXhyphenhypheniZXHAuoNtbf7J5sFcUUdONl3mO0FwyiA_r7yGw2x39iXTRNQwBUYgjW7MQKlIes7WFhhmNRFGWhA9_6z_ieweBJsuQewtfj4ftJ_YWbmynjrV_zjTBiu9eegX/s400/assemblage-beach-quilt-Ryall-2013.JPG" title=" reclaimed wood assemblage Beach Quilt by Margaret Ryall 2013" width="181" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beach Quilt, Margaret Ryall, 2013, reclaimed wood</td></tr></tbody></table> And here it is in the back entry of my summer house.  I have to wait until May to see it again (and take some decent shots of it). <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw9nFZDOjBJgolnZLVJgGjTMrU6xKPtY3gQeyfjGLMJRNJgDOfU7UXREBGq4BYN56-a7lMnkERaNMuRt6CEJwHAMzrAyZd5rQWsrYJwtXCm9wIpswGIIPw3NF-BrGZWt_o_4HLJRmmi8Tj/s1600/art+back+porch+_01.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw9nFZDOjBJgolnZLVJgGjTMrU6xKPtY3gQeyfjGLMJRNJgDOfU7UXREBGq4BYN56-a7lMnkERaNMuRt6CEJwHAMzrAyZd5rQWsrYJwtXCm9wIpswGIIPw3NF-BrGZWt_o_4HLJRmmi8Tj/s400/art+back+porch+_01.JPG" width="222" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>You've reached the home decor part</b></td></tr></tbody></table>Stay tuned for more creative moments in my life.  What have you created for your home lately?<br /><br />

Reclaimed wood works

 Old is good. What is old can be new again with a little ingenuity, and I don't mind admitting that the art side of my brain has lots of...

Read more »

Paint and floors! (mud room progress)

<p>Well when I said I wanted to get my hands dirty again I meant it. I worked my TAIL off on the mud room yesterday! Seven hours straight – it feels like I’ve barely made a dent <em>and</em> like it looks like a whole new room all at once. </p> <p>My hand is now a claw from gripping the paint brush so long, but there’s progress! </p> <p>After I installed the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/11/some-color-in-mud-room.html">new door trim</a> my next step was to figure out what color to go with on the beadboard in the room. I shared the options I was looking into on Facebook: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeYKqvbKHMDI0PDRmujY_7jFjVeHOwgstKHDuJ6QdJdVTuL20Pt3MexbaC6WKSiYl3dhx0h5_RHMI6IfUyaMRiVLFIKOl07d3P_O6Y5DvOxmrwMzxEJZIkiuIPT3aPV4U5NFH2LNdtLs/s1600-h/beadboard%252520color%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="peacock blue colors" border="0" height="677" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4o72AhrtnSPB7bfiEbYrMTWVuDDwdMjdyBitE-NXSIM6Vm6rA6zmkzjbDb8ToxdoOUXSVJ7RZ8FU5XCLvy09zfVVVT1HsQBLurZRaX_UuTIZiWHZ-zFEdzvmCkSgBfQZEn5kIFoacXC0/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="peacock blue colors" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I was deciding between a navy blue tone and a more peacock blue color and went with the latter – I’m a little obsessed with that color. I used it as an accent in the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/06/powder-room-redo-complete.html">powder room</a>, in the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/08/bright-basement-bathroom-done.html">basement bathroom</a> and I’ve used it in the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/search/label/living%20room">living room</a> too. LOVE. </p> <p>Thing is – painting beadboard is a major pain in the tuckus. Seriously up there with the most tedious jobs <em>ever</em>. I start by using a roller over the whole thing, not worrying about getting into the grooves. Then I take a thick, angled brush and fill in the “beads”: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNkhB61paegv0lPZU5U4F_QSx-HuOgU8pCMfcGKP41GxNjPPwg791P8gqBfLtM-nqprQRnu0DskJC8NW1YYKSXgE12tlCg7YxZkZQ2UpTTd-DCMz8MYLpPTL-ZZVcznLZ93yA80K1Uo_8/s1600-h/painting-beadboard%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="painting beadboard" border="0" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCr0mHF9YMrNuY62JjrG3DiDwq8CRqAp6F-bF98jIKLkqS9GOckrJfWtdUMecYIfoWe5TNmG1DfLOuM9uS9Szw6BVf5LtOMi-8TR-10XCtNf91Id4NrNrTMDefsjpJsKbsXCPpC_-s4b8/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="painting beadboard" width="400" /></a>I use lots of paint, don’t be afraid to lather it on there. You have to go over it a few times to smooth it all out and get any excess paint out. THIS is why I feel like my hand is permanently in the claw shape. ;) </p> <p>This time, for what I think may be the first time, I painted my trim before I installed it. What WHUT? Yep. I ALWAYS install first, then paint, and I ALWAYS complain about painting after the fact. I still don’t know if I’m sold on the painting before thing. It did make it a little easier – I didn’t have to worry about taping anything off. </p> <p>But I still had to fill nail holes and touch up paint that I usually don’t have to worry about. Since I used such a deep color, I knew filling the holes would leave a white spot I’d have to paint over a couple times, so I mixed up a bit of my putty with some paint: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMwTofYHwEa7rGdaYha9mstehIKOBsCh9wfkH7OMzeSAUHPITVShGHnTwbGq8dTP4j7B9wMj2b5PAMHKLlE6TSRX9DNJq7dj5ADmHenyyTgxpQaPqJBzSIievU0extprFH1OA8jTc1g4/s1600-h/IMG_7779%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="filling holes" border="0" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd8XFTo3kWqCyel0nrs5v-wmTb49L3OpmvSD4W16qUefgq30QSu-CEUVastmDKYx472EO-C9Ixzyda-D9ZJTrjjC8hr_x6nuALTjBtWJeBDWTG3NaTfUBV_G-7oExd7qU9XP2ExuFK3jY/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="filling holes" width="500" /></a></p> <p>That way it matched the wall color better. Even after it dried it was still a little lighter: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCicg2A0tI99vgikKCjs1ZFshZYW1ESyNoThgkAV_mtJbaC0QEWd1GMttrqOILfjN_IrXNSfjdCLY_KhWClzlAUuIusAAeGRZQgT6uiUQ4ermATBA1y9OlqsZnftHXrNeEmvStkiXXCKE/s1600-h/IMG_7783%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="filling holes" border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih1fKPo415Jf9dDADQhkrUx88aZ-b9MsnX-sLH_rEC0EvFMRaB2GwAxH-opgfF3j3fnnd3KPN2JkLEEy-V0JYtgTDvnohjd6ILrgRKsPuRDUW5jfj5TkUeS7qq1uur2QmujVvy0vUDISQ/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="filling holes" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I wiped it with a wet rag and then just touched up those small areas. So, the jury’s still out on the paint or install first, at least for me. I think it may be a bit easier to paint first though. Maybe. </p> <p>So the blue color is called Reflecting Pool by Ralph Lauren. I’ve had an old paint deck for years from when they sold it at Home Depot (I would get it mixed in Behr paint). This time I took it to Sherwin Williams and got it color matched. I do love it but it’s more color than I’m used to, that’s for sure! When I’m in the room it feels deep and pretty. When I’m in another room and walk into the mud room it feels BRIGHT. :) But Lordy…I’m not painting it again for awhile so I’ll get used to it:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg29kGd7dDqekSGqssAFclkH0c2Mj3C8-GbnuY_zSqsSiAuCafF0YvhJIB-P5N36tCa9QGWjKSZOFk9oimCgV8E5JIMPjtimjEaF_oPWVqosNMJHxlGuniyK7SfqSZeM5EFZNp7w-_GgUE/s1600-h/IMG_7787%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="blue beadboard" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimfjDzNOxWDXVgPnRTnV81Rn0xzyTIA4ZcJOcmPWTLa-J0_hdk0suTmHakzaJAFkPbf2YV59cmCW_uVny9PoJ9LS6SfE1edcKpMSapG3ZjLwjmFjmJbfz0hGRIrx84rp0SplqQ-LFS8QE/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="blue beadboard" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I did something a little different this time – usually the white is on the beadboard and the color is on the walls. I wanted to flip it around this time and I really like it! Now I’m not sure the door will stay that color though. It’s always trial and error for me – I just have to figure it out along the way. </p> <p>It takes me eons to put a room together but that’s because I have to think through every bit of it: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrIPKhgLJ0lEATxL-BiqZn9ZQggi_l9NgTf5tG9k9bVX-nLY1GC72Bbs6yHDiy39u2KZulpWsPH6UqnDssyAYy7uyx7hf25upJhvGTEVDVLVZZQKpNJXPYo9Z6f61eELesaVq8_VR7leg/s1600-h/IMG_7789%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_7789" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBpgE3fHo-fm4bTm_OBYltDLC9pts_UHX2kpV_sXx7q4asOcTCNrqKZJceciKUyNTwIfu5Mn5OtpHmI4VpZDIOdK86ty1JWSRi01y8FUJWeijfXthEFYq7TheM7ysy2mJlvTeBjRUMOM/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="IMG_7789" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I’ve had half of the walls covered with the beadboard for years, but never finished it up because I was too lazy to move the washer and dryer back in the day:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqF_di-8skocUub47U_oX8uYyXhDkAiZJ7rz3G7VUrnFMsKOX6hn2d8r-WsNWnWTm4ieR8d56P9bOIVWRqqRKnOsJq7tFIgduyyC2TT78oHG6A6xT_l7IaUc3YXqplde0dOVT65lATK9I/s1600-h/DSC05798%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="black and yellow laundry room" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRuGl5sMNQ3daUjovZZ8pwijOyOe4qM0VWseeSAbQzzoRBvvxRX7cwXwTjKimQCOP9U5D1VGyIevgbDHnViZVbqKgQgWO9tB0g3EVhSqfLUhHr-uHZ1o0_jxYrOY9Yy42FzzbqO6-Uo6k/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="black and yellow laundry room" width="300" /></a></p> <p>Next up I need to continue that around to the rest of the room that will be the built in bench and storage: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjOe3BqEV2xjhClvZgJIjU6Tto6suAfAQ-lxIw3MU48GCX1miZBvISShrg4w_crHWdFxVHrUxff0_g577WzY29Q-SkyUogvHl9KzJIBeiBGf1cMExvJpN5ohVtyaORvy1C_xNflfgTa8/s1600-h/IMG_7794%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="laundry turned mud room " border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNzErFPsRAdM8OqrgvlmJdkIFbgfQtBqkSXo_TscE4zsNRvVoAXf7_6MarjC2hY7Js7SAKo25KBV7R3LGnU9vQ11iSaEk7JFgcsMwnGCbkDXRvWxzY_07i0SV4bnqxhMyvQ57ipvi7HKw/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="laundry turned mud room " width="500" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdaj1TxI2eqzy6pu-6RKHmk6f-XOVanlhvCq15G5wQ7ryXMrjsLeAeEm5cGNZ_NUo6xMKK01_RdmpSORcbFoZY-Qc0DFNjlU2wfolpdwZQ5d7AKvEirlOMZ71Pl8KhR0FXMfqhHILbaHU/s1600-h/IMG_7790%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="laundry turned mud room" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBuUzRw5N9qq7O8eSTLcuOp9SFVzimkMF8y3yL_sLaf6YYHcUSpk6WRy2v0l2rXqnyhfkDKfIn0yTFZV7deM5th-vStd2EyC8ZGhVJW0CVj-GtBhPXRdXoQofsZsZquQTPfX-YcKZ5mrA/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="laundry turned mud room" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Those holes are where we had the dryer vent and heavy duty outlet – still don’t think I’ll even cover those with drywall since I’ll be covering it all with beadboard. </p> <p>Oh I almost forgot about my FAVORITE part! The new floors!! Our flooring guy put them in for a great price again, $300 for labor. Now that I’ve watched him do it a few times I feel like I may be able to do this myself. But they make it seem so easy – they move super fast and just two of them had the floor laid in a couple hours:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlQXHbcJZDDH2iR1Hh6NFxx7wSZ6AB1VGXyONZkc_f10lMyradX23CF5RxTLslbRXS6qHq3nOBaQuGLXyY8CrKTAwFzM711-zRx37hYLskVTlxW4kG1UCHDa8dRMAsn0eJ031VrMsPrUk/s1600-h/IMG_7792%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img alt="jacobean stain hardwoods" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoiz_YFL84BZ707RnHG1Pj9wWzJ522evIOJUxN4L7tx9n-n3GUcUppr9o6Xgt6-sUERxRgkHHhPUhB4vaKe_NCjhIguiXaC_zXi3BeJ72tpWRA9BIIWoSdOiZY-GOrKwEKqYivJDipHtM/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="jacobean stain hardwoods" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I still need to add some trim over by the utility doors – I was more concerned with how they met at the transition piece to the rest of the house than over there. We went with the Jacobean stain and a satin poly like we have on the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/01/would-i-do-it-again-floors.html">rest of the main level</a>. After living with hardwoods for a couple years now I would use them in just about any space – even one that gets wet shoes. They’ve held up incredibly well! Any time we’ve ever had water stand on them at all they may cup up a bit but then once they dry out they’re flat again. </p> <p>You may remember I installed the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2011/11/hello-all-hope-your-week-is-going-swell.html">peel and stick vinyl tiles</a> in here years ago – and they held up OK. Not great, but OK. The “grout” area between the tiles easily discolored, which I didn’t like. And I don’t feel like they’d be great for an area that gets moisture – the water would easily get between them. But the tiles themselves looked pretty darn good, even after years of use. I just didn’t care for the way the the grout areas looked after all this time. </p> <p>If you had told me a few years ago we’d put hardwoods in both a bathroom and the mud room I would have laughed – but I’m a convert. :) </p> <p>Next up – finish up the rest of the beadboard (I was waiting to decide on the bench configuration), then figure out the trim that will go around the top of the beadboard: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1hWGKerZOrmEEY38KXQfRMiks9yoqqZnHEwaZ96LpwNQ1gHIBg4xl2g_K5u5dQeG9SgjZ9teK1qXkfEyysk2vz84W-9UG3QFkTPpMV33l-V7vNgLE6i8IjQDItPEMHAdO0s77AOJJsCU/s1600-h/IMG_7791%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="painted beadboard with color" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMP7YymQHFwsot5R2888lxycp9t8uAhypc67cIcBa6wqIMMdgbxZPSuCyMiUcgrLyRaYFSLg69v9jgO5_UFzN5X671wH8Q0lIhmjJsZJIID2u5VA4FO5XS_QH4ycgOndABaTVokKQIh8/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="painted beadboard with color" width="500" /></a>Oh and paint the door trim. :)<em> Yay. </em></p> <p>THEN I can start the bench! I’m so excited about that!  </p> <p>I can’t wait to make more progress in this room – and to create more storage! I’m stoked. </p> <p>I’m just glad the bright yellow and black is gone: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDzArshyphenhyphenFNpQ4zjjnmjBnaj0DTZlLKfSHa7isVqHZpnTV47_OVpBgKaEt8Y1MAqd6GUlr-OlK5YR2lt-4Ic9awCGyFrs1RQkwF4euK5U6Wi3mqMKy3pkPtXtkkwMNaBnNsGayc-ga9ek/s1600-h/yellow-black-mudroom%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="yellow-black-mudroom" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6VVQmsXuH6VoNyD-rgfRuSRpcN4cQ0mYa8rkDXa7UlKqXibKM_t1-DpBi6XsgnfJNArym03X3brDvPn-x1rBZz1WZC989qWHcPzTp-YwuxDBON5R0EfDPm-Sai5pIf2MVYBdSP5H8rH4/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="yellow-black-mudroom" width="300" /></a>It served us well but I’m ready for I’m ready for a change!</p> <p>NOW I’m off to clean my <strong>entire</strong> house. When we’re all here 24/7 it’s so hard to keep up with it!! I want to start the new year with a clean slate! I’ll be back a couple more times this week, talk with ya later. ;) </p>

Paint and floors! (mud room progress)

Well when I said I wanted to get my hands dirty again I meant it. I worked my TAIL off on the mud room yesterday! Seven hours straight – it ...

Read more »

It was a good one

<p>Hey. Remember me? My name is Sarah and I write a blog. You may have heard of it. </p> <p>I didn’t mean to take so much time away but it was nice! I am now ITCHING to get going on something other than holiday decor, let me tell you. I have a list a mile long (I’ll share soon) that I want to tackle. I’m ready to get my hands dirty again (with something other than Christmas glitter)!</p> <p>I’m also excited about organizing again. Since I <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/11/most-epic-clean-out-ever.html">purged most of the house</a> earlier this year I feel more in control of our STUFF than I ever have. Now I just want to keep it going in 2014 by making the most of each space. </p> <p>But today I’m looking back at 2013 at my biggest projects, according to your responses. I have to start with one I’m most proud of -- mostly because I love it, but also because I’m <strong>so dang happy</strong> to have it DONE: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvhrjuYJJ98LCqhgg02JRkilMQTpdRJpUXlgh34iCW1boGmcdNnlqj7j-5cW6lCyTNwnabidLeJLvDr5JViOSA9SPSqR3nm90bJ11GSPw34Qg-Wz5tzVvv01yg0cvh-NlUXYIJ8gJmFGY/s1600-h/1%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="wood planked walls" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsiTAdD8MAHMNUOI3uxbXZ6pw8GpTgjkNM6LM8QMH5suzMu4B_lnpX01TN1UcbwTiE9Agb1hYIFqDwFa5jv5Bw_LwPsliMRz7p7s6mVL3rcv0TxS-RXrDm4QiPpk0xqGjmeTXBSGAV1YY/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="wood planked walls" width="500" /></a></p> <p>The <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/06/powder-room-redo-complete.html">downstairs powder room</a> was a work in progress for about three years. Or more. I lost track a couple years back. I’m SO happy with it now, it was truly worth the wait. </p> <p>I’m slowly but surely (I’m the tortoise of DIY if you couldn't tell) working on redoing our master bedroom. I sold our old bed and so far haven’t even come close to using the money I made from that to redo the space. There were a few popular posts from that room this year, including the new <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/07/diy-tufted-headboard-tutorial.html">DIY king-sized headboard</a> for less than $100: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwCOug7b85JUeuivZEdlIGhQsQMKv_1AEY0cALBoh7TkWIGKz9tk9l5n4pgPRaqM1pS_I0YG3I8QR3_FlqlVw8iM_-X7paRyjXxI2FnmxdqXHZVFq0xApoiSXUACD4kOW10q8sqbUalCQ/s1600-h/IMG_6078%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="diy headboard" border="0" height="745" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioR1OJ_SgqeW7ip3M3OEwhn2Bmaf_b0VszyemUHFaqjchpbxNj-9paqPiacYHzr_pi909ybKh7h7JaS6V0JRqmMHc4Fu3Oz1EzT06VP34R6omqwX_zNM5qpdYSAsHgEvLNj-kzCLyUoYo/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="diy headboard" width="503" /></a></p> <p>And then the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/08/80s-nightstand-redo.html">80’s nightstand redo</a> that didn’t cost me anything: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65dTh97Mde484eSzkEIWBv033U7e5ioBRHs4teDW_Aqr71Q1Y1sVGZ0Sg62p-Aij1QrrBDRiH5JSM3HfEP8MWKUb7JrcqVh8U6ZWkbX53t7OKRaD0Wt_D_1G2AzbEvMV223FhGh80SVw/s1600-h/80%252527s-nightstand-redo%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="painting over cherry wood" border="0" height="774" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWyqa_EeUDoSD71imrjhHySCguammnj7MEdOmKc-6KqZgegFJrJ0bLnjva4GUQYnMfxSJvMy6xt7Un_9gm-CRik1dp2txuEbT4Hm9cwPPETqosq68gVQ22pU6Dft_u95ExXwi13HbhPw/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="painting over cherry wood" width="500" /></a>And finally those <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/09/glossy-navy-blue-love.html">brass thrift store lamps</a> that were made over into glossy navy blue goodness: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3DIYhlFs3BTVluYLXG5LEkTlzQJcAi_G1v5nUxZ_QdIIqLFo6pnHYfmief3VSFRlOd-fNPHuP8B7HRFYoAwVPVlTrUpxtR5PIWqV_wqHxAQDHxTG5CtVHyH49RnpRIG5zAG8hAU-DgVU/s1600-h/lamp2%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="spray painting lamps" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWjf22Hz7qrWf1WcCXk7v2Pr0xgQJKKozPnNyQE0tfIC18aHtxTZWxGE9AmYqU_fXNUFV-0nWS88uJkcDqldCudLk5aNu1xgshIw0nYocJ9ZqInZVHEFXAjr6DpxcEb1_xfi9nMjcJNbc/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="spray painting lamps" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I have big plans for this room coming soon – I still haven’t even finished painting it yet. :) </p> <p>After a lot of trial and error over the past (nearly) ten years in this house, I’ve finally figured out what works in our yard. In other words – I’ve stopped killing things. Our backyard is coming together as a beautiful oasis for us, and I gave you <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/05/tour-of-our-garden.html">a tour here</a>: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2jQLldFHHiDbpVJ2Zoh80qgD9IUOMFZU-FPQoFbbYDzfCd_EUEOWcKcJcd0IiP9524HUx9iHQbML1zw4xUBzDBMkzoYZ4iAKuiQoc4ehjAjsMsGy8JM3O3EKW-diIo2yCjtYGEl4Z1-c/s1600-h/IMG_5598%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="backyard oasis " border="0" height="777" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNzRb7hYFeal2vNvv-nUVY6pY8EOja2m4ikPseFxSFubb3elNkF3fZM4huaWdaCMkHh58DcPFodFQvjhckxosWde-3AVmJ7tSk-Ri6j9Fo0HuqD8R2M-Gxc-hfa82XMhyGK7EU3xajqk/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="backyard oasis " width="500" /></a></p> <p>I was busy in the kitchen this year – some of it I splurged on, like our <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/03/splurges.html">new sofa table</a>:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbFFAZZTCQ8EMij9Pd9SW5V4Kfj0Yxgd2O1W52lGKxPCQgCkjptIXIgO7DuCt9ropWH8lIs1bVq3xjlqs00zr86Cb-7a4vnVpGB6nZ94b8zv5IEoKqJ3RmyUtu0QjAYTiySn346bOHnEE/s1600-h/IMG_5261%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="long sofa table" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwv4O2m_ebOe5cUp_glG_mceAl6o7FztwGOzTa_VJLsNDW7e2-tpcBaqCAZK-zfPguxyV8HSfiY-GssQfY-vXQOmbdU8NhtUkA9CFS-aOEOJ3Rj5Ewh7xxHesfhW1xTKkU3moT_PYr_iw/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="long sofa table" width="500" /></a></p> <p>And some I did myself, like this <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/04/ikea-table-turned-farmhouse-table.html">IKEA table turned farmhouse table</a>: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHMCf8gCyk5XSLdK67Cdexi0eeFrp41lrYUo06RJyO-c6KES56F90BcWahyphenhyphenXkaOV2n8en6G3w530XnqKKn315F46b8nGD6D7J7dUpbwNwx8eXd7AWpSnAB9R3UtsjAVyq6TWf03SF4uxg/s1600-h/IMG_5393%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="DIY farmhouse table" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjFKR6H-GbcLzzqXYtXzFztMLMbTDg1AelDpTLtR2MmfhwuCA3e-40xZ0DStg7TrAnysmzXU_yntMkpShLV-GvH4FHGH_l58mKlFSHs6I4bz-Adyg1OonyN0lYVITpWzKM3vo_q93htY/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DIY farmhouse table" width="500" /></a></p> <p>The whole nook got a new look with the table and <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/04/new-kitchen-nook-complete.html">the new light</a>: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSbVqJCmuMN2D7pGXY8RgU5qjor9bKQbzz8qJB5HbbsdnOC8xshNFFKIa-YkVJjTWAYMgzPp3bhoFvK0DutKahfevasJY8h-34XUXJzMQ0j__TsEr2kET1750zx0JAx99Nm5y23ulBp0A/s1600-h/home%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="bay window kitchen" border="0" height="751" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8l5VkJLHZEG6A2L57dCAB7CH3EjBsDSeQ_XX9f6HE8bKAkK4xdsmR3GiKpz99JmcBP88ETDwWr8EGq2EmCRRTVpKVktS98mztryZHnXTv8r-isJGg-WP0UWpEq-nfuqPpGrGr9sc64FM/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="bay window kitchen" width="500" /></a></p> <p>It works SO much better in this space compared to our old round table and we can easily fit six around it to eat (even without pulling it out). </p> <p>I was craving color earlier this year and tried out one of my very favorite chalk paint colors <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/01/aubusson-blue-in-foyer.html">in our foyer</a>: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqAZXyIKwJMQTixFIZ3zvv12aqCsBvLvmXbXHknSpSz9u4Ak0efxDuD4BsxTZDG6fUCw7ZV70ISvRwuYMeSiyd0zaOZRYLewahHTUoz-xR_3HrAQ4L6L0sup7mRxKdRXU943J0taCPElA/s1600-h/IMG_4402_thumb%25255B1%25255D%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="aubusson blue" border="0" height="651" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvWdfZGhxrhE-qq0oPqlUA14NSZmgei-_60S-6UhilJsbxSebIaiC_Rlv133lpW-PT1AbfkYQxZM69xngOKInC4BzBdeo62m2QsYhKUYpfX2BJuVTOCpSyTUIVx028sN3G-tRIpd3y0tA/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="aubusson blue" width="450" /></a></p> <p>I painted one of my favorite Craigslist dressers with it and it’s such a deep, gorgeous color. LOVE it! </p> <p>Speaking of that beautiful blue -- another bathroom in our house that sat undone forever was completed this year too. I showed you how I installed the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/04/diy-floating-shelves-bathroom-progress.html">floating wood shelves</a> in our basement bathroom: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYImPABYQ4xeBq9HRT5yVqoXu9YXW4QQDBekrsriVVoMj6cRV8lTZLkMymGl4Aqwi2pBSWPA0SNL0hYZzKFI2Yjnbsen_IW1fy3OTECWS7Ss6CLoRIXXsCyogVt_hZwbMQ5YRSUIoojBI/s1600-h/IMG_5453%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DIY wood floating shelves" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ELF0SPwUV9KX47sdh78VGQtqJnSTkt8yz88wUJ5mMng1XFtD6JUhitxYTFD1Jce_AHKNRB8xU0wHBSrVh-IUIL2AL3u2aJsVHllvVNxXIeHEGoxwvKxt47hsK8CYZCx-wlP5mw0p0N8/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="DIY wood floating shelves" width="500" /></a></p> <p>And then later on in my <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/08/no-spend-project-review.html">no-spend August</a> I finished up the room and used that chalk paint color again. You can see the <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/08/bright-basement-bathroom-done.html">finished space here</a>: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjflx0D7qdWpSPCsMSRkjRAOGEGf8rrgEAPyBOrcQgW8o9ejEbZdb4t9RBF6Gptd4I5RM11cdvY7hqNzLqP-GGWHdTOf_TV7SSn8ZpIm1D-BpRakprwjEAtp5hrgpyssJ8_K3cYZMrDAmM/s1600-h/IMG_6238%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="basement bathroom" border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQaStV-ijurEgpl2PCi8cM8FTPIIC4IjOjlzsdkfB7C0IYHcdHptLXjlyQIEaF3Cr-EQfRFS4XHojKwr7DOQ5SnfSPcLJ3L3rVVI_UHFbOubNGU1TVkHC5znYBb_5wQvCOVnAF8y1ZBNI/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="basement bathroom" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I made a few simple changes in the family room this year that made a BIG difference. The first was to change out the old dark mirror that was over the fireplace:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhophyphenhyphenckjJoakseN4k5dj4s6tvIQfXaDBWnB8pG7xdP4xhs3eKLrqKkcy9oTfEF1VxeuqWjzmQs9UhLqIqtCwbk8q2jQWiXvdYMunzJtTvmJFkEWmrT0qyLkp8VsbC112AGTXPXbRrqM/s1600-h/IMG_3037_thumb%25255B6%25255D%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxb4-TZOwkKey5eIwMULVkaFQLIk6qKUd1f_FJwTvC7PiZ9-_lV8iVVLuxay3tQhwW3VleCPMrSdiK_6Dg4FYKpxpPvtYTrIj-SJIuxVzy8s3Z4WGwtvV567Ilvmbw64-d6QAhA2oJeCw/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="" width="400" /></a></p> <p>To this <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/02/brighten-and-lighten-family-room.html">lighter, brighter one</a>: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQl74qd3LVAD7y271K0WWt1I21eFfxTGhgzxuy5LTUTY-fDPRNk7WkgfALAeuoimw0Dkh-v6dGfeICY0efDrt1SaehJ2ISmJt0_vLrWs-cAEE0UfciybfLEgxp9eAAQ7hqzeJQsThPrJQ/s1600-h/decorating-mantel%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="decorating a mantel" border="0" height="728" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNBAIfmdYFnGMwjR4t0iJvYy5hCXfbaoSO8hhtsdXhfoCvfJp4t4ncrePg82EzNXvS7si0T7nBwR9SAkBY7R3EgZNjCWARXDdOdWSZEBevHgt9naxtsjNicsQfdL295i364ABCQb09Cm8/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="decorating a mantel" width="500" /></a></p> <p>This mirror is one of the top five things I get asked about – I got it at HomeGoods and still haven’t seen another one like it since! It made a HUGE difference in there. Seriously…big. (You can see more about the fall mantel <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/09/fall-mantel-and-party.html">here</a>.) </p> <p>I saved up and finally found a rug I loved for this space too. It truly <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/11/new-family-room-rug.html">transformed the room</a>: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSROSETeuuS6S0gsFz7WDEFti9s5lsdZNbqkfq_GeEb04TWBWXSpvHT7f-AYsnYfyNSK9WncfbzLohXk6B4mNwfoTmAV5Xh-V-hnXw9BmwwVqIL0mYSihzK_vzT4K_fKu3sk1NaUNT1f8/s1600-h/IMG_7183%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="light family room " border="0" height="750" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxdNmPNnCi4rnvomB6A2Fm91DmOZAAHWPctdz-lQIGhKUWgJcbZSUIGQwFD2qE1DmKkNtf77Npxo_yFtSRT5aQUgopB0ZhOm95KM5C_PzKRdPFsSUdOLvw_2XDACDAodxWSnZOLCGHtfQ/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="light family room " width="500" /></a>And finally – if you’re like me the last thing you want to see right now is more Christmas stuff, but my <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-home-tour.html">holiday home tour</a> was a big one and I appreciated all your sweet comments there so much:   <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw2wez3zbhVt7j0Ru8ky5zJvNWX0gnTuFV5JBhp4C2i_8-bxKB82Ogq2i0bJK_08kjqrKgVkGZEkUEwPTn8OMu0oPMBzc5j_d9axL0bkfzlLEtXTFJiozJDn17MEC2TcMpQVpZV4qj3Wo/s1600-h/PicMonkey%252520Collage2%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="thrifty decor chick christmas" border="0" height="714" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibR2Ag7Lu7NPPhqzXwRP-LkInUJbjH8zZPL39MxgyJHSdmQ4bTHXWwZCm2YzzhIG6zbb-lZLWCI2K_5Ox0nUVfg_r6-4BPQlVYzsGXUn3mQ0LahypgZTbkheQE7dsOdC04T1awNrrsdj4/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="thrifty decor chick christmas" width="500" /></a></p> <p>As always, the posts that got the most feedback were those that just talk about life, and usually those are my favorites. :) You can read more about our mouse problem and how I dealt with that <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/02/the-mouse-story.html">here</a> (I wish I had read something like this before we had the problem), my new favorite place to visit <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/06/my-new-love.html">here</a>, a BIG change in our lives (and the love of my life) <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/05/bittersweet.html">here</a>, giving up my soda addiction <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/03/cold-turkey.html">here</a> and a rousing discussion on the prices at Goodwill <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2013/05/to-goodwill-or-not.html">here</a>. </p> <p>It was a very good year. Probably one of the best. I am so, SO grateful to do what I do. I have you to thank for that. Thank you for coming back to see what I’m up to, I truly appreciate you and I value the connections I have with so many of you. I’ll be back next week with some DIY and my plans for the new year! Have a great weekend! </p>

It was a good one

Hey. Remember me? My name is Sarah and I write a blog. You may have heard of it. I didn’t mean to take so much time away but it was nice! ...

Read more »

Elements of Scandinavian Design

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQVbBjD1DxDI6JzxLx-YiEMQUOJNw_4OQG6DTWpshQQzF7YX6EzuLpcZb4bPQFu9bZMQ0LH9EJshSRxKObgwm6jMoXfLhN_3zWwcoaZjY_zDWYcNSzVQigQ8udPkJDq1mybNCJPZW6Oj0/s1600/DSCN9963_01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div> <span style="font-weight: normal;">I have lots of love affairs and Scandinavian design is one of them. </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">I developed this passion in my teenage years when I discovered a book in our local library.  Just to put you in the loop, it was a new book then.  </span>It  is  hard to believe that one event can impact one's design aesthetic for life, but that's the case because  I've woven various elements of  mid century Scandinavian design into every home I've  had. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0bNswCrhC26PiQO0KhYPCPDoCEr04XANATjyCR6EoGGJjgRPe30_t2nMTU_hyomMzo_HQM7nR5x3BENA3nCuTr1n-xP26H3u3-mE4-6TD0EF5puwzwtC3PZyDJtpQlkDIx9QympaODsh/s1600/Danish-mid-century-modern-furniture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Scandianavian furniture design mid-century modern" border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz0bNswCrhC26PiQO0KhYPCPDoCEr04XANATjyCR6EoGGJjgRPe30_t2nMTU_hyomMzo_HQM7nR5x3BENA3nCuTr1n-xP26H3u3-mE4-6TD0EF5puwzwtC3PZyDJtpQlkDIx9QympaODsh/s400/Danish-mid-century-modern-furniture.jpg" title="Mid- century modern Danish furniture designs" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here's my take on  the elements of  mid- century modern Scandinavian design and how I've interpreted it in my own home. </span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><h4>Form </h4><ul><li><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span>function is the priority, and then  form is pared back to its simplest statement </li><li>materials are chosen for their beauty and longevity </li><li><span style="font-weight: normal;">the lines are clean and  minimal , often with sinuous curves or  very "boxy"</span></li><li>craftsmanship is flawless</li><li>360 degree design -  looks good from every angle  </li><li> prominent use of wood , followed by  plastic and metals</li><li>emphasis on nature and organic forms; bring natural materials in</li></ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8cZyyXNUBeQRcS2LnDoE5MWDO22Z2V-NuHuWedehjMUNclxPVBh_Irvp4wsa8bhZveViiwRWVXsbUjyXeeXGFBUWedyyhHWfoDlK4M1OHI_tMfcReVBA2CuE82E04gRIN6ftAmRhtWOf/s1600/b3607d28c9bd7c028b835bfe04c119a0.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Scandinavian furniture design " border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq8cZyyXNUBeQRcS2LnDoE5MWDO22Z2V-NuHuWedehjMUNclxPVBh_Irvp4wsa8bhZveViiwRWVXsbUjyXeeXGFBUWedyyhHWfoDlK4M1OHI_tMfcReVBA2CuE82E04gRIN6ftAmRhtWOf/s400/b3607d28c9bd7c028b835bfe04c119a0.jpg" title="Elements of Scandianavian design" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scandinavian furniture design </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;"> <a href="http://themodern.net.au/"> </a></span><a href="http://themodern.net.au/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">source</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnWrDpeRXLnfwJsXsd2Y2u4UgNXU1Z5A8LDgH1H4fftkxp7Yoo1fW_gELB8l9Xo-W1AJwrkW4EAqBeMDJOjIZU2inxH7QlVOmjFe8XINDs6JBdPc3mVfU437RBpZomhlP8z1WYAejXWHhd/s1600/605675c7684bcd7f47c58fc4633bd45e.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Scandianavian furniture design " border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnWrDpeRXLnfwJsXsd2Y2u4UgNXU1Z5A8LDgH1H4fftkxp7Yoo1fW_gELB8l9Xo-W1AJwrkW4EAqBeMDJOjIZU2inxH7QlVOmjFe8XINDs6JBdPc3mVfU437RBpZomhlP8z1WYAejXWHhd/s640/605675c7684bcd7f47c58fc4633bd45e.jpg" title="Scandinavian furniture design " width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scandinavian furniture natural tones </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://stylizimoblog.com/customized-shelving/">source </a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnc1Ph9FyXDZhY88bvuPHuNttrD7eXeIqyvEz0oXeA90g024CkzesWcOsA7QzytbQXi0PHUBpbYLemSneG0wlR8zI0YFYf86hJM_CvMHs-UHvEuiVQWEGmVkhRVAMpJtrCjqU5X61hHjT/s1600/c1af686bb44e276320dad3312e3f3407.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Scandinavian furniture design light wood" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnc1Ph9FyXDZhY88bvuPHuNttrD7eXeIqyvEz0oXeA90g024CkzesWcOsA7QzytbQXi0PHUBpbYLemSneG0wlR8zI0YFYf86hJM_CvMHs-UHvEuiVQWEGmVkhRVAMpJtrCjqU5X61hHjT/s640/c1af686bb44e276320dad3312e3f3407.jpg" title=" Elements of Scandinavian Design" width="424" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White furniture on light wood </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://trendenser.se/"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> source </span></a></div><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">Check out  other iconic furniture designs in a <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2012/04/10-iconic-furniture-designs.html">previous post </a></span>. So many well known furniture came from Scandinavian designers. <br /><h3></h3><h4><br /></h4><h4>Colour/Light </h4><ul><li>emphasis on magnifying natural light</li><li>white and off- white interiors with blue or blue gray or black</li><li>muted  tones,  restricted to neutrals </li><li>simple or no window treatments </li></ul><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MsW8QjsE3_vgaytQVROQ0TsDDre-FBzyKM7uZ0auyj0aHRsOiQAsyurZKK5dQd95SaMxaOn3TbCMyET-sJk6MovqzfLGS31GM9DLXiUhJjmCiH9pKvId534QV_luvu35l2QU1lwKxcLN/s1600/9f5f0604e6940ce9823a48b2fa2bb91b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Scandinavian design colour scheme" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MsW8QjsE3_vgaytQVROQ0TsDDre-FBzyKM7uZ0auyj0aHRsOiQAsyurZKK5dQd95SaMxaOn3TbCMyET-sJk6MovqzfLGS31GM9DLXiUhJjmCiH9pKvId534QV_luvu35l2QU1lwKxcLN/s640/9f5f0604e6940ce9823a48b2fa2bb91b.jpg" title="Elements of Scandinavian Design " width="456" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colour in Scandinavian Design</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://camillatange.blogspot.fr/"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"> <b>source </b></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHjsEEJ26qoRcL1CsIU-U-C8y68Aa-sVoGh6wms0NZ3aiHgaQCGIa2QGGSX1Wb0tGHhR9dAUafHNjsYgLARPWrtWcj_9MIRZxiJJecUwIPe9B4eSsKcYr_97PIREtKM0HvfbgDv2JVBChb/s1600/cacccfd64cd8d79766a6ea6050a740ca.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt=" White colour scheme Scandinavian design " border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHjsEEJ26qoRcL1CsIU-U-C8y68Aa-sVoGh6wms0NZ3aiHgaQCGIa2QGGSX1Wb0tGHhR9dAUafHNjsYgLARPWrtWcj_9MIRZxiJJecUwIPe9B4eSsKcYr_97PIREtKM0HvfbgDv2JVBChb/s640/cacccfd64cd8d79766a6ea6050a740ca.jpg" title=" Elements of Scandinavian Design" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> White colour scheme with light wood </td></tr></tbody></table><h3 style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://cocolapine.wordpress.com/page/8/"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> source </span></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJJcps1T-xyO1ThdlcUpE213vafBey1_artGgzPgUqUzeIS6icw8ZxogNckhnu7TSnjQvS5UQPNeE6dzZzXJy798jlfs8q14GJjDTxfDU07DSPZQaveWILdw51K19SZi7n7ee4D_10Ap4/s1600/cozy-scandinavian-bedrooms-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt=" neutral colour scheme in Scandinavian design " border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJJcps1T-xyO1ThdlcUpE213vafBey1_artGgzPgUqUzeIS6icw8ZxogNckhnu7TSnjQvS5UQPNeE6dzZzXJy798jlfs8q14GJjDTxfDU07DSPZQaveWILdw51K19SZi7n7ee4D_10Ap4/s640/cozy-scandinavian-bedrooms-9.jpg" title="Elements of Scandinavian design " width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neutrals with natural wood </td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.digsdigs.com/50-cozy-and-comfy-scandinavian-bedroom-designs/">source  </a></span></span></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></h3><h4 style="clear: both;">Shape </h4><ul><li> geometric  patterns, free form / organic and florals</li></ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42Q6bQS4g8mq7uigJdLflTSdN0Ttw0dXuoYAw2VJoNZm7SRgfkfpMkQXdUu5b-NBN9FDWhcXGTM0AOfRlB1liinosHhKwRw0kj2ZmT6cDxZVxYq481YNSRPHdbEwqIfnp1hQxS5NxYObD/s1600/4912aabb75c2b6682e2ac26c39343d5f.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt=" textile patterns Scandinavian design" border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42Q6bQS4g8mq7uigJdLflTSdN0Ttw0dXuoYAw2VJoNZm7SRgfkfpMkQXdUu5b-NBN9FDWhcXGTM0AOfRlB1liinosHhKwRw0kj2ZmT6cDxZVxYq481YNSRPHdbEwqIfnp1hQxS5NxYObD/s400/4912aabb75c2b6682e2ac26c39343d5f.jpg" title="Elements of Scandianavian design " width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">organic patterns </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://zainteriora.net/2009/12/04/marimekko/">source  </a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Wf1V6PWSUsby8U7epVlSBVwoInCS0Vv9I7WOsd9tVHaN-DQ7_vi9QzilVgtFhrLGTdxnh7Nhx17lEm5e1Upeo0w1UdzgmDXgHBHNkrVXA1-thuOjwGf5S5vEGNrZvAgiz7jZsMyA8ZOf/s1600/0cd5ce3ad2c304587e8b20f9ec3c21ff.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="geometric textile patterns Scandinavian design " border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Wf1V6PWSUsby8U7epVlSBVwoInCS0Vv9I7WOsd9tVHaN-DQ7_vi9QzilVgtFhrLGTdxnh7Nhx17lEm5e1Upeo0w1UdzgmDXgHBHNkrVXA1-thuOjwGf5S5vEGNrZvAgiz7jZsMyA8ZOf/s640/0cd5ce3ad2c304587e8b20f9ec3c21ff.jpg" title="Bold geometric patterns in Scandinavian design " width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Bold geometric patterns </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bambulablogi.blogspot.fi/search?updated-max=2012-11-06T08:59:00%2B02:00&max-results=10"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">source  </span></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Love the hint of blue with the black, white and gray in the  geometric rug.  The pop of blue with the throw is inviting and also creates a sense of warmth in the room.  </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy9qieteCj63Y54t7fH4e7ndyOWfw0UgpOyeCQ85BRXTfxAzfE42kbM5aqWvKebtLtutE4i5aC-iQeeaPEPoR1vJV1cAiMBYW237nDrFGGYR5u3K-lou6iYYK-CouolAK8N_1RmBrv2JK-/s1600/b36005b2689156390c105d082a075c4f.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="geometric white and black patterns Scandinavian-design" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy9qieteCj63Y54t7fH4e7ndyOWfw0UgpOyeCQ85BRXTfxAzfE42kbM5aqWvKebtLtutE4i5aC-iQeeaPEPoR1vJV1cAiMBYW237nDrFGGYR5u3K-lou6iYYK-CouolAK8N_1RmBrv2JK-/s640/b36005b2689156390c105d082a075c4f.jpg" title="Geometric patterns in Scandinavian design" width="424" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">geometric patterns </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ipic.su/img/img4/fs/5a_1.1324650607.jpg"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> source </span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">This is such a crisp but inviting room that is made interesting by using a range of textures and patterns.  I love how the striped rug anchors everything. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIjMTIkdpr0A-xiBNP8Q9e1824zOWdphxrICzYsnX8AY25JHvxIh7HOI9QMt9FplQzZX_i6fGHw38OxFalEnxoDD6N1s8vDv7JSs03xx2gxMPZiZkTr38tp5IdJ1ejXzLd_FLQ1nP_pSJ-/s1600/c5b148e7f3497538c83070be3c904335.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt=" accessories by Lassen Scandinavian design " border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIjMTIkdpr0A-xiBNP8Q9e1824zOWdphxrICzYsnX8AY25JHvxIh7HOI9QMt9FplQzZX_i6fGHw38OxFalEnxoDD6N1s8vDv7JSs03xx2gxMPZiZkTr38tp5IdJ1ejXzLd_FLQ1nP_pSJ-/s400/c5b148e7f3497538c83070be3c904335.jpg" title="Lassen accessories " width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lassen Accessories </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kristinadam.dk/portfolio/my-collaboration-with-by-lassen/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">source </span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><h4> <b>Texture</b></h4></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul><li>wood is highly valued and  used extensively for floors,  walls and furniture </li><li>natural materials in textiles: linen, wool, cotton, hessian, fur (sheepskin)</li><li>glass, pottery is used for many accessories</li></ul></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7FphUmkU6ELlSoFF5tZZqh_X8O-EXf9cQURbXM7KLZX8JgHqroOYFuJSSfVdI8uzX2iRrUbbltm3THXdErxpy_FntEJS8eDF8QUscrN1650m7qWWH5FLt_HDLo3EfUd_czIQKh2ftmeFg/s1600/c6ae80ed6bf8cb360b2f81103b58fa08.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="texture in Scandinavian design " border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7FphUmkU6ELlSoFF5tZZqh_X8O-EXf9cQURbXM7KLZX8JgHqroOYFuJSSfVdI8uzX2iRrUbbltm3THXdErxpy_FntEJS8eDF8QUscrN1650m7qWWH5FLt_HDLo3EfUd_czIQKh2ftmeFg/s640/c6ae80ed6bf8cb360b2f81103b58fa08.jpg" title="texture in Scandinavian design" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Texture in Scandinavian design</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/gallery/2012/nov/16/homes-interiors-scandinavian-inspired-homeware">source </a></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">This image shows a simple room with  many natural material in one small space: wool, felted wool, fur , cotton and possibly linen.  And great art to anchor the space,.  Wouldn't you love to sit on that chair?</span> </span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLAbIEdGq14YbUeo1dxBJzooGqrGt5aBqlnwpGjdY3LiQ0EiU3ttXkUMfPrzwGwfdUwGlzVYPNGzvJBUJXIPSVvDMLgfOPpMUBJ6_1sMCTI9lkiLms7ztbW8Jest6fEKqS06BV6rflih8/s1600/14175be79e4cb3fb3599955ffcb06385.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="natural materials and texture Scandinavian design " border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLAbIEdGq14YbUeo1dxBJzooGqrGt5aBqlnwpGjdY3LiQ0EiU3ttXkUMfPrzwGwfdUwGlzVYPNGzvJBUJXIPSVvDMLgfOPpMUBJ6_1sMCTI9lkiLms7ztbW8Jest6fEKqS06BV6rflih8/s640/14175be79e4cb3fb3599955ffcb06385.jpg" title="Natural materials Scandinavian textiles " width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natural materials in textiles </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://wehearthome.com/home-style-guide-the-scandinavian-look/">source </a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Another chair holding  a selection of cozy textiles that you can choose to cuddle up with. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGtEkiWqnFJD64-ND9j0BnQ0_5uVWN2x1dFl8uAVwuK8tgxQDyD_Du4T8KFbeDhCVd9VRQIIp0oiicsTlzS4UeiX85vSs2Z7I8-R5rhc7VGvzE_sYz4tU1nDR2vDvJHQHn5vnfb6MB5lqT/s1600/85f08ac5ed7f5f80c01003bfd1401d07.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="accessories texture Scandinavian design " border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGtEkiWqnFJD64-ND9j0BnQ0_5uVWN2x1dFl8uAVwuK8tgxQDyD_Du4T8KFbeDhCVd9VRQIIp0oiicsTlzS4UeiX85vSs2Z7I8-R5rhc7VGvzE_sYz4tU1nDR2vDvJHQHn5vnfb6MB5lqT/s640/85f08ac5ed7f5f80c01003bfd1401d07.jpg" title="Texture in Scandinavian accessories " width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b> </b>Texture in accessories </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.purodeco.com/autumn-collection-danish-house-doctor-2013/">source </a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42Q6bQS4g8mq7uigJdLflTSdN0Ttw0dXuoYAw2VJoNZm7SRgfkfpMkQXdUu5b-NBN9FDWhcXGTM0AOfRlB1liinosHhKwRw0kj2ZmT6cDxZVxYq481YNSRPHdbEwqIfnp1hQxS5NxYObD/s1600/4912aabb75c2b6682e2ac26c39343d5f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There's nothing like a matte inky black vase and natural elements to draw your attention to a corner or an interesting piece of furniture.  This one is so sleek next to the roughly carved  stool. A great mix. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVt3HUnqxHvvlMH53oXQHvdKbYYfWZSFdAqyFWZ_cMoxxIQQg_VW6uicbVifyCaAp7035a_1NS7xzbZwtY2QzNK3nbSQEwIVdWkOurvkrpo0AsaJjDaSTy2oYdV_zUnpup6Y0Qa2KafRNR/s1600/b655a8ac15328fc2fbca9379465fe765.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="texture knits Scandinavian design " border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVt3HUnqxHvvlMH53oXQHvdKbYYfWZSFdAqyFWZ_cMoxxIQQg_VW6uicbVifyCaAp7035a_1NS7xzbZwtY2QzNK3nbSQEwIVdWkOurvkrpo0AsaJjDaSTy2oYdV_zUnpup6Y0Qa2KafRNR/s640/b655a8ac15328fc2fbca9379465fe765.jpg" title="Knits in Scandinavian Design" width="478" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Knits in Scandinavian  design </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://busybeingfabulous.com/2011/11/australian-country-spinners-inca-wool-shoot/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">source </span></a></div><br /> Nothing is as inviting as knits on a bed.  All that texture, light colour and cuddle potential. <br /><h4>Space </h4><ul><li>uncluttered,  room to rest the eye</li><li>easy to move around </li></ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8dXgxEH-0FVPhmJzVjuTmM0LyShSfhR27wk7tHwhtefzL46kK3fEwUPcqQvja-HlJe1ct_T9Bn-Hx22oJxKsFyEejrcwFCz7xA920j7Eca-nr1yLzNiyXG7XkoMNdVPvtF1thuFxI703C/s1600/126475f5041bfb96e51afda7efce5f27.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt=" open space Scandinaviandesign " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8dXgxEH-0FVPhmJzVjuTmM0LyShSfhR27wk7tHwhtefzL46kK3fEwUPcqQvja-HlJe1ct_T9Bn-Hx22oJxKsFyEejrcwFCz7xA920j7Eca-nr1yLzNiyXG7XkoMNdVPvtF1thuFxI703C/s400/126475f5041bfb96e51afda7efce5f27.jpg" title="Scandinavian design " width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Open design </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.finnishdesignshop.com/images/Stacked_Retail_Livingroom-1.jpg"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> source </span></span></a></div><br /><br /> <span style="font-weight: normal;">And here's my  always in transition, uniquely Newfoundland,  mid century Scandinavian look at Christmas!</span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDfEQI65rHrI52y5itQ0El4nNBhAgNJGH8rHXv8zrsznQ6TpbdLsYYEnwTfTb6Zjrw-Du6sOhVheBwHnqajxqw0wWL9d5WjCCVaizZMRcrvwRU15pF5O84AEG9E4Fhv41nbnVWGjZOZD9/s1600/long+view+kitchen.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Scandinavian colour scheme Newfoundland home" border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDfEQI65rHrI52y5itQ0El4nNBhAgNJGH8rHXv8zrsznQ6TpbdLsYYEnwTfTb6Zjrw-Du6sOhVheBwHnqajxqw0wWL9d5WjCCVaizZMRcrvwRU15pF5O84AEG9E4Fhv41nbnVWGjZOZD9/s400/long+view+kitchen.jpg" title=" Scandinavian colour scheme Newfoundland kitchen " width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scandinavian colour scheme<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I like minimal window coverings in a south facing window when privacy isn't an issue, hints of black and natural toned birch with lots of white and gray. </span></div><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQVbBjD1DxDI6JzxLx-YiEMQUOJNw_4OQG6DTWpshQQzF7YX6EzuLpcZb4bPQFu9bZMQ0LH9EJshSRxKObgwm6jMoXfLhN_3zWwcoaZjY_zDWYcNSzVQigQ8udPkJDq1mybNCJPZW6Oj0/s1600/DSCN9963_01.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Scandinavian design with a twist" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIQVbBjD1DxDI6JzxLx-YiEMQUOJNw_4OQG6DTWpshQQzF7YX6EzuLpcZb4bPQFu9bZMQ0LH9EJshSRxKObgwm6jMoXfLhN_3zWwcoaZjY_zDWYcNSzVQigQ8udPkJDq1mybNCJPZW6Oj0/s400/DSCN9963_01.JPG" title="Scandinavian design with a Newfoundland twist " width="386" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scandinavian design  with a twist<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Christmas decorations without the traditional red or green and my new Kubus 4 candle holder  that is quickly becoming my favourite accessory next to  pillows from my sister who knows just what a room needs.     </span></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ENfsTH8frg-pHfsm2f3BZc2doAKY3hqyzOmayupOKI8RD65q8LVqrZZ59N5H861yAzEJDKJGdxJe2UqEkCBK2qq5NkhGdAI2SyqXuNptfcxqmlYMjN8nXxgWl5mOtZcoXuca04W_rMzZ/s1600/DSCN8194.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt=" mid century modern dining room Scandinavian design" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ENfsTH8frg-pHfsm2f3BZc2doAKY3hqyzOmayupOKI8RD65q8LVqrZZ59N5H861yAzEJDKJGdxJe2UqEkCBK2qq5NkhGdAI2SyqXuNptfcxqmlYMjN8nXxgWl5mOtZcoXuca04W_rMzZ/s640/DSCN8194.JPG" title="Mid Century Danish Modern dining room " width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mid Century Danish modern hand crafted </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrr6uwZ5QSlCJKhT6g1eXGvzrDFNmQZ9Row5eYpYfxKFb3cynF_0htviV9niuTG9b532Sl-GAUkF-JQJqksMiaOn6K3tEFfzn7lfgyiwusS4-go3EPiNki0iGa9usqYC1gVcpwpzoSyzkL/s1600/DSCN9931_01.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Scandinavian design Christmas " border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrr6uwZ5QSlCJKhT6g1eXGvzrDFNmQZ9Row5eYpYfxKFb3cynF_0htviV9niuTG9b532Sl-GAUkF-JQJqksMiaOn6K3tEFfzn7lfgyiwusS4-go3EPiNki0iGa9usqYC1gVcpwpzoSyzkL/s640/DSCN9931_01.JPG" title="Natural elements Christmas design " width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Natural elements Christmas<br /><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Margaret Ryall </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_keN_4jTLmQpIhk1dJ46BzWf-P8tFoOVzqjRVquARfwudt3QiOHxUsORCBDawprIXTkI6k46ZTgbkgR1P-a8cpF6E3xGysOgkUB-zwTa3fIOcgj0dHX12OqeinQJxwFw53YoOGLvWi2dY/s1600/quotescandi.gif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="quote-simplicity-design" border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_keN_4jTLmQpIhk1dJ46BzWf-P8tFoOVzqjRVquARfwudt3QiOHxUsORCBDawprIXTkI6k46ZTgbkgR1P-a8cpF6E3xGysOgkUB-zwTa3fIOcgj0dHX12OqeinQJxwFw53YoOGLvWi2dY/s320/quotescandi.gif" title="Simplicity in Design Quote " width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_keN_4jTLmQpIhk1dJ46BzWf-P8tFoOVzqjRVquARfwudt3QiOHxUsORCBDawprIXTkI6k46ZTgbkgR1P-a8cpF6E3xGysOgkUB-zwTa3fIOcgj0dHX12OqeinQJxwFw53YoOGLvWi2dY/s1600/quotescandi.gif" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://interiornovice.wordpress.com/2013/02/11/interior-styles-scandinavian/">source </a><br /><br />What elements of Scandinavian design do you have in your home?  </div>

Elements of Scandinavian Design

  I have lots of love affairs and Scandinavian design is one of them. I developed this passion in my teenage years when I discovered a book ...

Read more »