Design Solutions: A bed between two windows

Work is keeping me quite busy over the last several weeks and blogging always drops off when this happens.  I'm beginning a series of posts called Design Solutions that will  address common design issues that often crop up when I work with clients.This is a great way for me to come to  terms with options and at the same time it provides a written commentary that I can send clients to in the future.  If I can help my readers in any way, it's a bonus. <br /><br />Being a lover of asymmetrical balance, I can't explain why I am so attracted to the placement of a bed between two windows.  But I am. The windows become part of a larger design tableau in such instances, and the whole wall must be considered as a unit including headboard, night tables, lamps, table vignettes, art, window treatments and bedding.   Here are several guiding principles to keep in mind. <br /><br /><b> Keep it symmetrical</b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-zuDqjsfywt8SbrmQCBmWaL_K81z2We9WAiBlG5N4X5IzuyxghUhBLJqLk5MFLdrBhQook_BqywDw5Il_Tb_9c1IdNMFVQs7DLEhoOb_4zySchX8ZOEr-87vqFI2nRWFVohNXq0bu6bD/s1600/135d79facf464e35185af4a6afb2dca1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-zuDqjsfywt8SbrmQCBmWaL_K81z2We9WAiBlG5N4X5IzuyxghUhBLJqLk5MFLdrBhQook_BqywDw5Il_Tb_9c1IdNMFVQs7DLEhoOb_4zySchX8ZOEr-87vqFI2nRWFVohNXq0bu6bD/s400/135d79facf464e35185af4a6afb2dca1.jpg" width="312" /></a></div><br />When you start with a layout that is symmetrical, it works best to continue using this form of balance in your design .<br /><br /><br /><b>Consider  your headboard shape when choosing art</b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b> No headboard<b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgloqgahCi_aTx5qdZ7xeSGG7ZGPKWhK4Z9D_NjbrjoySORTxhKKIPJJHQJk4zDw_NOz0xpxw3bujEqK7Qkzg_30onhs67ARXbmUj_OYASFemt5ovpPN3XPAQwC-RXDZezBShG4gTbH96Xw/s1600/56f1353d7caaa5029ad33283ac091cca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgloqgahCi_aTx5qdZ7xeSGG7ZGPKWhK4Z9D_NjbrjoySORTxhKKIPJJHQJk4zDw_NOz0xpxw3bujEqK7Qkzg_30onhs67ARXbmUj_OYASFemt5ovpPN3XPAQwC-RXDZezBShG4gTbH96Xw/s400/56f1353d7caaa5029ad33283ac091cca.jpg" width="302" /></a></div><br /> The height  and shape of your headboard will dictate what you place over it .  When you have no headboard you have to choose something that will fill the space well, and circular shapes with lots of texture and warmth are brilliant.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">High headboard</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAnE_StD6Or7FmjKesIoXIyT6xQlCPvMYKTYYebwxMQ-cSbRgrDG9rHAWJCi1bX54nhSlBpD3ITVvGKuW8jfx8VcuFIyeb5YCiApyvm6euEBFfX5-pa3ooUmStjP1mQrvE12oaa3wViOdY/s1600/f1c6e740c1abad410ee2a9db57e72d8b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAnE_StD6Or7FmjKesIoXIyT6xQlCPvMYKTYYebwxMQ-cSbRgrDG9rHAWJCi1bX54nhSlBpD3ITVvGKuW8jfx8VcuFIyeb5YCiApyvm6euEBFfX5-pa3ooUmStjP1mQrvE12oaa3wViOdY/s400/f1c6e740c1abad410ee2a9db57e72d8b.jpg" width="342" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The pillows act as  the center of interest in this layout of high headboard framed by draperies.  No art is needed. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNWjiYtu-VCQPtwqmCMexibDVhtC6WeEf797H_papGXAjwwwA1QcTHl4g_AIG1Thq9SNkh1Y6Tea_5EBzeiRaoUSiDeQZiwaPEFGBD4dpgmLY5TrhjI9WGPYyPqQ8IlDwGc9qU7JYp-6A7/s1600/a4ad995f88940f50669f30470538389d.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNWjiYtu-VCQPtwqmCMexibDVhtC6WeEf797H_papGXAjwwwA1QcTHl4g_AIG1Thq9SNkh1Y6Tea_5EBzeiRaoUSiDeQZiwaPEFGBD4dpgmLY5TrhjI9WGPYyPqQ8IlDwGc9qU7JYp-6A7/s400/a4ad995f88940f50669f30470538389d.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Many designers are attracted to  groupings of three objects (art) between two windows.  This is an option, but not one I usually advocate.  When there are too many rectangles my eye craves  something curved or solid. In this room  the art reaches the top of the windows filling the space in between thus making the windows, headboard, and art one large rectangle.  <br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Low headboard </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjam1DixtkUha7ZaIn8JR5ROyrVnnTrSB7a04-UB5satwxxoA-UhrIOSDFNFhNJIcpDl8gT25oynochndIiFPC0MLu4UJdoXVoOXqXxcn23koxyFWLsEc3v5RNlBTNAGYRj8t27nsA5uFwj/s1600/f616e4429846120376cae14065ed3fa4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Design Solutions: A bed between two windows " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjam1DixtkUha7ZaIn8JR5ROyrVnnTrSB7a04-UB5satwxxoA-UhrIOSDFNFhNJIcpDl8gT25oynochndIiFPC0MLu4UJdoXVoOXqXxcn23koxyFWLsEc3v5RNlBTNAGYRj8t27nsA5uFwj/s400/f616e4429846120376cae14065ed3fa4.jpg" title="Design Solutions: A bed between two windows " width="291" /></a></div><br />This is a beautifully designed space, both elegant and simple at the same time.   The headboard  is low and the six art works fill the space nicely.  It is always interesting how you can depend on one element or principle  of design to  negate problems with another one.  With all the lines in the windows you might expect  that 6 pieces of artwork would be overkill in this space.  Not so here.  The dark frames and lines in the romans make the window lines almost unnoticeable. Contrast always wins when vying  for attention.  The curves in the spectacular roman shades also provide some relief from all the rectangles.  I rarely hang roman shades from the ceiling, but in this case it works especially well. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Curved headboard </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Y37MkGgiMaUJjGgPPTLj6eMM2QVaEMhcKXIxKObQmuyrRHEKV58IVjWnjLBcGqdNzqN77XmWQv5NWTPhVkNCFFHBuVnZo8HgIaxWReMIwvxdwjxr1QAg6IQtc9ly_8W6a2MCoOwach90/s1600/990dcaffd4190096b8f365c0b99f609a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Y37MkGgiMaUJjGgPPTLj6eMM2QVaEMhcKXIxKObQmuyrRHEKV58IVjWnjLBcGqdNzqN77XmWQv5NWTPhVkNCFFHBuVnZo8HgIaxWReMIwvxdwjxr1QAg6IQtc9ly_8W6a2MCoOwach90/s640/990dcaffd4190096b8f365c0b99f609a.jpg" width="480" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi-zuDqjsfywt8SbrmQCBmWaL_K81z2We9WAiBlG5N4X5IzuyxghUhBLJqLk5MFLdrBhQook_BqywDw5Il_Tb_9c1IdNMFVQs7DLEhoOb_4zySchX8ZOEr-87vqFI2nRWFVohNXq0bu6bD/s1600/135d79facf464e35185af4a6afb2dca1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />It is difficult to hang art over a curved headboard; it is often best to let the curves be the statement.  In this room a spectacular light fixture adds additional visual interest to the larger vignette.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnhcUkUd7LynS8WJeC4I89SF16aY6yKXmKkrvebEIMW4wiNigVuzUhuvupid9JAc0bCG48Beyw92utBybUsYiRAjyWiD4ugwGvRTh70Uk4aL83T-nRyoaa-y3EtPX8A_KrCaGLOwHayT2/s1600/91b088d80ae6b43a569060928085cc2c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnhcUkUd7LynS8WJeC4I89SF16aY6yKXmKkrvebEIMW4wiNigVuzUhuvupid9JAc0bCG48Beyw92utBybUsYiRAjyWiD4ugwGvRTh70Uk4aL83T-nRyoaa-y3EtPX8A_KrCaGLOwHayT2/s400/91b088d80ae6b43a569060928085cc2c.jpg" width="392" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNWjiYtu-VCQPtwqmCMexibDVhtC6WeEf797H_papGXAjwwwA1QcTHl4g_AIG1Thq9SNkh1Y6Tea_5EBzeiRaoUSiDeQZiwaPEFGBD4dpgmLY5TrhjI9WGPYyPqQ8IlDwGc9qU7JYp-6A7/s1600/a4ad995f88940f50669f30470538389d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />And the exception to the rule... there's always one!  The lamps fill in the curves and the three pieces of art look especially good hung in a straight line.  It doesn't hurt that there is a circle in the headboard. The art is light and the bed becomes the center of interest in the room. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZjhC1bniW2H9-RVFetnox00Hba-xU6TIrINXaHtJ70UrA46KyNtj9YxfiMz0ssFy6VdNrabCw70zWgoFSCar-KxkUD2FQfNrSiMLi3KA8E8Xu0lRg4LgAxZo_3jUI58h4Zg7_IJ2IH38J/s1600/c37dd3974bb86a6f7120c82d664a0626.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZjhC1bniW2H9-RVFetnox00Hba-xU6TIrINXaHtJ70UrA46KyNtj9YxfiMz0ssFy6VdNrabCw70zWgoFSCar-KxkUD2FQfNrSiMLi3KA8E8Xu0lRg4LgAxZo_3jUI58h4Zg7_IJ2IH38J/s400/c37dd3974bb86a6f7120c82d664a0626.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b>Follow the lines of your curved headboard to place three pieces of art<b>....</b></div><b><br /></b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4vZZtDjvn5EI93Dl6ap-8QZAI9UzBSeo9xCukeJLcpo3HxO_mgdQU_T7kOwCwb7AfT47IXAtu-KHAgQq4M4tQrhWZI1J0Sa8ApHmoXLpVRRvvM1Dt0oVTA6EUIwPMXbfkZsZwxqtWrbR8/s1600/48610e2ed2e0380a7dae8946afc34017.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4vZZtDjvn5EI93Dl6ap-8QZAI9UzBSeo9xCukeJLcpo3HxO_mgdQU_T7kOwCwb7AfT47IXAtu-KHAgQq4M4tQrhWZI1J0Sa8ApHmoXLpVRRvvM1Dt0oVTA6EUIwPMXbfkZsZwxqtWrbR8/s400/48610e2ed2e0380a7dae8946afc34017.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">or use a round mirror or sculpture at the top of the curve. </div><br /><br /><br /><b>Use window treatments to frame the bed</b><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi26jtCn9p3OBZOhVuJF5ftIqgxThDnife7Px43Igo2v5UhZLCwI7bkiGXapv03rAKGb7sH8Uf2IXsg5mwQ5ofvUebfwl67uiPRDxZDZKe6gQowm84KbO1Nk4OxK0sAKfj-WQid8rAEg3Bh/s1600/a96a42dad12747d95db0915794701af2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi26jtCn9p3OBZOhVuJF5ftIqgxThDnife7Px43Igo2v5UhZLCwI7bkiGXapv03rAKGb7sH8Uf2IXsg5mwQ5ofvUebfwl67uiPRDxZDZKe6gQowm84KbO1Nk4OxK0sAKfj-WQid8rAEg3Bh/s640/a96a42dad12747d95db0915794701af2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />My preferred solution for a window treatment on matched windows is draperies.  They soften all the hard edges and make great frames for the bed and the night tables. Think about your table colour when choosing your drapes.  The tables should stand out not disappear. Yes, I would change the black, wrought iron rods! Love the simple pillow arrangement and circular mirror.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXdUW1psZZAPN6guBhnAP3nhxhtvtaKIYH7Tj5WTfYVtORheIY_8Z2C9znpFVVLxKDyedvCJaOTgm1xuNcwTNCMYsm-ljWoBF9vx8m7OrjrJxZenhlcWfaoMIsFql0fnvfdtCNqPrAqOsr/s1600/f5686c2fe2f0455f10127f6c1dfeb39c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXdUW1psZZAPN6guBhnAP3nhxhtvtaKIYH7Tj5WTfYVtORheIY_8Z2C9znpFVVLxKDyedvCJaOTgm1xuNcwTNCMYsm-ljWoBF9vx8m7OrjrJxZenhlcWfaoMIsFql0fnvfdtCNqPrAqOsr/s640/f5686c2fe2f0455f10127f6c1dfeb39c.jpg" width="419" /></a></div><br />Consider using blinds behind draperies for privacy. and be adventurous when mixing designs  in the space. I think this combination works well because all the  patterns have the same colours.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfW4Fu871k1jkm5o5iGrOuqF09HZj3r06TYwYEcYlPZyoqnlZ8oaWduxSaq_mFfGNrsKa1lDHGONwghDUV8Ij9xjl_WaJGNW9BQ0vVn1ZCVvAgx90rjib011YG7d06udQc4cJ_1A0HpTCn/s1600/0d2649ff9631ec9b9b4335460db7f935.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfW4Fu871k1jkm5o5iGrOuqF09HZj3r06TYwYEcYlPZyoqnlZ8oaWduxSaq_mFfGNrsKa1lDHGONwghDUV8Ij9xjl_WaJGNW9BQ0vVn1ZCVvAgx90rjib011YG7d06udQc4cJ_1A0HpTCn/s400/0d2649ff9631ec9b9b4335460db7f935.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><br />Hanging a drape on the outside edge of both windows and using a shade of some sort is another option for a window treatment .  This solution opens up a small room and gives the bed more room to breathe.    The shades are the centre of interest in this room because they are so dark. Patterned fabric adds another element of interest.   I love  round night tables when there are two windows because they serve to soften all the straight lines. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgloOqo6E6HJaHVyl5fER7D0r_K6bVLwrowgOZl4UeMNEj5naAhaGFKT-0uF3vZbhnMoZ1d1tNjKltIm525FhxNc71KdrG48BvKEy5WFo67G0DNDEcO9iezHqr0b3b0jKao65Elu5Wr_nye/s1600/2b9bd06fe7fc7294f247f012e1023149.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgloOqo6E6HJaHVyl5fER7D0r_K6bVLwrowgOZl4UeMNEj5naAhaGFKT-0uF3vZbhnMoZ1d1tNjKltIm525FhxNc71KdrG48BvKEy5WFo67G0DNDEcO9iezHqr0b3b0jKao65Elu5Wr_nye/s400/2b9bd06fe7fc7294f247f012e1023149.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you want to maximize visual space keep your shades and drapes light and matching. Be careful when you choose rods for your window treatment.  Rods are functional and to my mind they should blend into the decor not make a statement that draws your eye upward. There's nothing else black in this whole room so why choose black rods? Check out a previous post on <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1429644750709379289#editor/target=post;postID=2953768607024820369;onPublishedMenu=posts;onClosedMenu=posts;postNum=48;src=postname">Choosing Rods.</a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlUdccfw4Sw7-puWv6iItKQo-VTkwsLhKfGJSCjWV_-TkCXIP-eqadKj-37k23jIxPnNR8ib9I-ONXHKbRqQHC9iH7FZDXEXdL-Xi8IVDvzO-WLKV9fy4xF5pjSTHlXWE6xJoBQK3qXM6/s1600/8e169ebcac27405b0cf287074e3def61.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlUdccfw4Sw7-puWv6iItKQo-VTkwsLhKfGJSCjWV_-TkCXIP-eqadKj-37k23jIxPnNR8ib9I-ONXHKbRqQHC9iH7FZDXEXdL-Xi8IVDvzO-WLKV9fy4xF5pjSTHlXWE6xJoBQK3qXM6/s400/8e169ebcac27405b0cf287074e3def61.jpg" width="322" /></a></div><br />Romans are simple and linear.  You would never call them soft, but they can frame a bed nicely when they are used in conjunction with tufted or other luxurious materials in a bedroom.  By choosing a simple monochromatic scheme these romans serve to move your eye around the room and allow the white window details to frame the bed.  The white art is a repetition of the the frames.  <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gtujh7Oy48ynPUK7e7McXE1p1Wy4kONpsMorxl4FIccUGkZeRqvJ1YKCXCY_qBeWgORH1q8a2iM6LfC1cVqlsZbdWOjChc7Yyk2i-MjljIuahyphenhyphenZGELL4uolI1iS9xBaLt7FTPUz-BPWR/s1600/429589dcb2f881ba084c639aa3d3fcef.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gtujh7Oy48ynPUK7e7McXE1p1Wy4kONpsMorxl4FIccUGkZeRqvJ1YKCXCY_qBeWgORH1q8a2iM6LfC1cVqlsZbdWOjChc7Yyk2i-MjljIuahyphenhyphenZGELL4uolI1iS9xBaLt7FTPUz-BPWR/s400/429589dcb2f881ba084c639aa3d3fcef.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> And why not make your window treatment the focal point in the room? Overload on draperies. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfW4Fu871k1jkm5o5iGrOuqF09HZj3r06TYwYEcYlPZyoqnlZ8oaWduxSaq_mFfGNrsKa1lDHGONwghDUV8Ij9xjl_WaJGNW9BQ0vVn1ZCVvAgx90rjib011YG7d06udQc4cJ_1A0HpTCn/s1600/0d2649ff9631ec9b9b4335460db7f935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1_rpB4DFeZyxe5VARv5VLLW8wQ1skW0iiMSnMYA5lTyOOfFKhovGb76g7ndlaDJLCd09-sKsnDLK6TUvLAwzf8A4KkrG0lM1qI_pvPCvLv4w2OQY-KEztTDKCqQa8PCFBQHA8v8zvuzzy/s1600/6ce390d7697d193f1b3594eb5693a7a5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1_rpB4DFeZyxe5VARv5VLLW8wQ1skW0iiMSnMYA5lTyOOfFKhovGb76g7ndlaDJLCd09-sKsnDLK6TUvLAwzf8A4KkrG0lM1qI_pvPCvLv4w2OQY-KEztTDKCqQa8PCFBQHA8v8zvuzzy/s400/6ce390d7697d193f1b3594eb5693a7a5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />My parting comments:  This small  monochromatic space maximizes design in every way. If you want to put three art pieces above the bed it works best when there are soft draperies on either side.  The simple images and large white borders connect with the white bedding and lamps.  The larger white accessories are simple and perfect.   The dark furniture anchors the space and I don't even mind the black rods! <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Links to all images can be found on my Pinterest board <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/mryall/bedrooms/">Bedrooms. </a></b></div>

Design Solutions: A bed between two windows

Work is keeping me quite busy over the last several weeks and blogging always drops off when this happens.  I'm beginning a series of po...

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Modern Architecture - Passive House Retreat

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://goathouse.blogspot.com/2013/09/modern-architecture-passive-house-retreat.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="modern-green-home-design" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGZ1p8OyoE9-NY81OoxDEwoV-sJjK9YdIs7umW8FZ4rCCk1BySRXKly4UjbIDLoaZTjQ6FHdKojXc8tr_jh1fMD5LUojJuupirAeuApDVnAgNCq4hd6GV0aP_W-QOIQHR3Gor3P4hcnU/s640/modern-passive-home-design.jpg" title="modern-passive-house-design" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Passive House Retreat is located in New England has modernly designed by architect based in Boston, <a href="http://www.zeroenergy.com/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ZED (Zero Energy Design)</a>. This modern house that stood on the area of 1200 sq feet has received various certifications which include <a href="http://goathouse.blogspot.com/search/label/LEED%20GOLD" target="_blank">LEED GOLD</a>, <a href="http://goathouse.blogspot.com/search/label/Energy%20Star" target="_blank">Energy Star</a>, and <a href="http://goathouse.blogspot.com/search/label/Passive%20House%20Standard" target="_blank">Passive House Standard</a>. </span><span class="" id="result_box" lang="en"><span class="hps">This home</span> <span class="hps">suitable</span> <span class="hps">for</span> <span class="hps">families</span> <span class="hps">with kids</span> <span class="hps">has been equipped</span> <span class="hps">with friendly energy</span> <span class="hps">features </span></span><span class="" id="result_box" lang="en"><span class="hps">and</span> <span class="hps">has considered the</span> <span class="hps">use of</span> <span class="hps">healthy</span> <span class="hps">materials.</span></span><br /><br /><a name="more"></a><br /><span style="font-size: small;">TEAM</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Architecture by <a href="http://goathouse.blogspot.com/search/label/AIA%20Home%20Design" target="_blank">Stephanie T Horowitz AIA</a> </span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Construction provided by <a href="http://www.aediconstruction.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Aedi Construction</a>, Waltham MA. </span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">Landscape Design by <a href="http://www.nilsenlandscape.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nilsen Landscape Desig</a></span><br />Kitche<span id="goog_1852494465"></span><span id="goog_1852494466"></span>n by <a href="http://www.poggenpohl.com/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Poggenpohl</a><br />Furniture by <a href="http://www.addonovo.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Addo Novo</a><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 10px;"> </span></span><br /><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 10px;">Photograph by <a href="http://www.gregpremru.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Greg Premru</a></span></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Hj_B9J5HNA1CaUDu3eBWfkLUfi2BUDXcX3lcgc8QMnauxfYjs66x5xZR9eq4Bmv6wbV1Q_izlGfoO35x1iLV2PROElR9SQjCoGnOyXeyGPsNTB7qKVPa4rrnfx6YdQCygKY6BuNTwt0/s1600/modern-passive-house-new-england.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="green-architecture-design-boston" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Hj_B9J5HNA1CaUDu3eBWfkLUfi2BUDXcX3lcgc8QMnauxfYjs66x5xZR9eq4Bmv6wbV1Q_izlGfoO35x1iLV2PROElR9SQjCoGnOyXeyGPsNTB7qKVPa4rrnfx6YdQCygKY6BuNTwt0/s640/modern-passive-house-new-england.jpg" title="Modern Architecture - Passive House Retreat" width="640" /></a></div><span style="color: black; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.gregpremru.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a></span><br /><h2><span style="font-size: small;">Passive House Retreat, New England by <a href="http://www.zeroenergy.com/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ZED</a>:</span></h2><blockquote class="tr_bq"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">"</span></b></i>This private retreat and vacation residence located in a beautiful community on the New England coast features high performance and efficient use of space in a small package. The client sought a two bedroom, two bath home that was right sized for their family - nothing more, nothing less.  They also had a goal of minimizing the home's energy use.<br /><h3 style="font-weight: normal; text-align: right;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>PASSIVE HOUSE</b></span></h3><div style="text-align: right;">A sleek, simple, gable roofed structure was designed and proposed with the Passive House standard, which is a building performance standard that yields an extremely low-energy home. A combination of exceptional insulation, air sealing, high performance windows, and solar gain reduces the space conditioning requirements to a mere fraction of a typical home, and uses only a very small heating system. The clients, whose extended families owned large, drafty, energy inefficient homes, immediately latched onto the Passive House standard for both the energy savings and the increased comfort.  They looked forward to a space with no wintertime drafts and very constant temperature throughout the home.</div><h3><span style="font-size: small;"><b>AESTHETICS</b></span></h3>The gable form the home was planned as the defining aesthetic feature. Its iconic shape and playful red color is carried from the eastern exterior red gable, through to the interior kitchen wall, to the living space, and back outside to the opposite western exterior gable end. Inside, a clean fresh look is achieved with minimal trim, simple polished concrete floors, and careful glazing selection.<br /><h3 style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>FLOOR PLAN</b></span></h3><div style="text-align: right;">The layout was designed around the client's planned use.  The bedrooms are located at either end of the home and receive either morning or afternoon light.  The open floor plan of the living and dining space features a dining nook that bumps out of the southern side of the space.  Since family and friends often visit, the nook is large enough to sit the family and all their guests. The client also expressed their love of baths.  This was addressed by including a dedicated sun-filled tub room in the southeast corner of the home adjacent to the master bath.</div><div style="text-align: right;">Despite the modest footprint, the home addresses all of the client's needs using efficient space planning, plus features storage space and a loft area above.  With a ladder leading up, the loft provides the children with their own private place to spend time away from the adults.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><h3><span style="font-size: small;">PERFORMANCE</span></h3></div><div style="text-align: left;">The generous amount of south-facing windows maximize solar heat gain in the winter, using the polished concrete floor to absorb the heat and re-radiate it into the space. The north-facing high performance glass door opens up to the agrarian view out over abutting farm lands, seamlessly connecting the interior living space with the exterior patio.</div>High R-values in the home, including true R-40 walls, R-50 slab, R-60 roof, U-Value: 0.13 windows, and exceptional air sealing mean that only about one-tenth of the energy is needed for heating when compared to the requirements of a conventionally constructed home. In addition to the very small heating system, the house also incorporates a heat recovery ventilator to maintain excellent indoor air quality with minimal energy expense.<i><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">"</span></b></i></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL8ADd1Efwm3FGaXwrUGMCbpW9mZGda_P5e5Yl_9CCpj8ROY1sHovMW72BfKtbMQJFm4Co1yFBYwj6Y8mHvKZBaJK5kfgqsMe4uPCNIJMi6WGdFC9Us1mMiBEufpyCP6iuZZm_BbnzZzg/s1600/modern-passive-house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="modern-wood-home-design" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL8ADd1Efwm3FGaXwrUGMCbpW9mZGda_P5e5Yl_9CCpj8ROY1sHovMW72BfKtbMQJFm4Co1yFBYwj6Y8mHvKZBaJK5kfgqsMe4uPCNIJMi6WGdFC9Us1mMiBEufpyCP6iuZZm_BbnzZzg/s1600/modern-passive-house.jpg" title="Passive-house-retreat-leed-gold" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="modern-kitchen-set-playful" border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgry8-0tTxDfKRaMVzWkgiu4NGE3e710D9efCIsWtZUycx-Tca4VP2-t8vaL10Ay4lZFr66ml0Sjsx9iWobITVUWismUw3Qgh3qvjRlhrDDZtqVVgtHRGeK1_SDr8-COakUB5TvqH-cF7U/s640/modern-kitchen-design.jpg" title="modern-kitchen-dining-design" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaEp0LgUbu9wfrIkgozl2n5l7MH9Q7DZjgkrCkl5mfsaReFmGffW6Ydv971H_BeUCH_0N5jsyQ8V_gzNfleOmPjWxTq6RZi1y4cP_WZyBwX3swImfjXBVXUsqWHjh_TzJ8WJ6_QSnvT5M/s1600/modern-kitchen-set-interior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="kitchen-set-dining-interior" border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaEp0LgUbu9wfrIkgozl2n5l7MH9Q7DZjgkrCkl5mfsaReFmGffW6Ydv971H_BeUCH_0N5jsyQ8V_gzNfleOmPjWxTq6RZi1y4cP_WZyBwX3swImfjXBVXUsqWHjh_TzJ8WJ6_QSnvT5M/s640/modern-kitchen-set-interior.jpg" title="modern-kitchen-dining-interior" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="modern-dining-room-design" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSffPZ1rJ4G2MhhtNvuVuMcSfIN9Nwkyx63POMEkfGF3SvswrEhlC3GyLzURz3YiR5f6uo7UeX4_88JYPZfEHsgI65guiNpJCZXI4H0eVfveOw4f_24WBrBOEttht7erTWTyNrBwEzhA/s640/modern-dining-room.jpg" title="dining-room-interior-design" width="265" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9IrQdZdPD4Z_6a7qFCUODusfV8gI6smYu5YHPZ6oy9XydxehSfjHU-JVs6w-P37Ltc-TjSvBeWV1gmgj1MBKD6hXj9g4ZUU-gSm23-Vt7cudvWnl61pcp1NGnTHGf1p9WZ68E-cyki2A/s1600/modern-hall-aisle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="modern-colorful-hall-interior" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9IrQdZdPD4Z_6a7qFCUODusfV8gI6smYu5YHPZ6oy9XydxehSfjHU-JVs6w-P37Ltc-TjSvBeWV1gmgj1MBKD6hXj9g4ZUU-gSm23-Vt7cudvWnl61pcp1NGnTHGf1p9WZ68E-cyki2A/s640/modern-hall-aisle.jpg" title="modern-playful-aisle" width="258" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4DNk5XeFdFajL3IKmP7d8k2RiO41KhBzpsAtlisgtlt0mLWHzTwPlHhuPvywhadnMCFPQYpHegtyMsyRuFdoXuA70-gg2Yr7WDhYObqfCm2Q4nbnV6oDJBwwo3tD8qXngf4GoXMX7Mw/s1600/modern-closet-wardrobe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="modern-shelf-home-interior" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX4DNk5XeFdFajL3IKmP7d8k2RiO41KhBzpsAtlisgtlt0mLWHzTwPlHhuPvywhadnMCFPQYpHegtyMsyRuFdoXuA70-gg2Yr7WDhYObqfCm2Q4nbnV6oDJBwwo3tD8qXngf4GoXMX7Mw/s640/modern-closet-wardrobe.jpg" title="modern-wardrobe-interior-design" width="277" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqNvXHk8WEx8bipx3MlXYolYtOvTks-RMarbaruyNlG79gOHou9BZn1baZI5Go7dGSsnAP8Mgeis7Wt65uYKDx1ibnsUwTaSnC8o7_LJcpCE01p-A2CpfAD7wEnQ2_Xnn1DdIgyCu_8Q/s1600/modern-wood-stairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="modern-playful-stairs-design" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqNvXHk8WEx8bipx3MlXYolYtOvTks-RMarbaruyNlG79gOHou9BZn1baZI5Go7dGSsnAP8Mgeis7Wt65uYKDx1ibnsUwTaSnC8o7_LJcpCE01p-A2CpfAD7wEnQ2_Xnn1DdIgyCu_8Q/s640/modern-wood-stairs.jpg" title="modern-wood-stairs-design" width="228" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1x9aauhMP95iTTcoPJGTYgwzYZTEh5u88UwclXb_rpeq4jdoLsZHYunPG-KcYDw7ajyAMlnSRNthbhElaiGgu4F6VPIdXpH-5tQ0eGpAzc0P4qgSfy1F_ItBvg0r8pFCVbBuM3l7qrHo/s1600/modern-blue-bedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="modern-bed-colorful-design" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1x9aauhMP95iTTcoPJGTYgwzYZTEh5u88UwclXb_rpeq4jdoLsZHYunPG-KcYDw7ajyAMlnSRNthbhElaiGgu4F6VPIdXpH-5tQ0eGpAzc0P4qgSfy1F_ItBvg0r8pFCVbBuM3l7qrHo/s640/modern-blue-bedroom.jpg" title="modern-bed-room-design" width="640" /></a></div>

Modern Architecture - Passive House Retreat

Passive House Retreat is located in New England has modernly designed by architect based in Boston, ZED (Zero Energy Design) . This modern h...

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The Tardy Decorator

I can't believe I haven't written a  blog post since May.    I am posting regularly on my Facebook page which is quick and can  be accessed easily as I travel and relax  at my summer home. I don't think I am the only one who falls shy of projected output over the summer months.  <br /><br />I am also tardy in completing my own home improvement projects. I wrote about my main bath reno last year in this <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2012/01/bathroom-renovation-woes.html">post </a>.  I made all the design decisions and purchased materials.  Now they all lie in my painting studio and have been beckoning for a year.  I joked with my husband, who is the contractor, that the choices will be past their prime by the time the room is completed. I'm already having second thoughts about the sink I purchased.  The new  completion date is fall 2013.  He won't commit to a specific month though!  <br /><br />I am also re-decorating my guest room which has had nothing done to it in 15 years! It is a deadly beige right now and I've moved my black shaker bedroom set  into the space  and plan to work with a black and white design and possibly one or two  colour accents.    Here are some inspiration pics.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/1685492/Turn-of-the-Century-Cottage-traditional-bedroom-other-metro"><img border="0" height="666" src="http://st.houzz.com/simgs/10d1d0fe006b4737_8-9079/traditional-bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designer/c/Chicago--IL" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/tmstomstringer/tom-stringer-design-partners" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Tom Stringer Design Partners</a></small><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">I love the mix of organic and geometric patterning.  I already purchased narrow striped black and soft white sheets and have my eye on a duvet. I am not a lover of dark window treatments, but this room looks great with the geometric cut on the black roller shades.  There's  nothing like a tidy window treatment. BM <b>Acadia white OC 38</b> is my choice for wall colour.  Stark white is too clinical for me. </span></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span> </small></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv8LNy5PJahv9gitvE8IJRFmW9aRLIn2NFE77LFEhh-OvwsOtI6em1SPLWLN6kGYTeNmdQAQtdjdiGmvxUHVr77M0uVGhEfntxX9_Jc7umYZs3zAmfnZQt9EPoK6kcrCw5EEp7MDs8nWht/s1600/IMG_6619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv8LNy5PJahv9gitvE8IJRFmW9aRLIn2NFE77LFEhh-OvwsOtI6em1SPLWLN6kGYTeNmdQAQtdjdiGmvxUHVr77M0uVGhEfntxX9_Jc7umYZs3zAmfnZQt9EPoK6kcrCw5EEp7MDs8nWht/s400/IMG_6619.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhA7M-iPL-m55AxrYzdI8k31XBv1XSQMW7TfZ2h38oGRsWHmM9Actep8WJ-6WN_azoBCJMA__fIJUbh9MeRBOGiOIVYeiZ-t7VOoC0szZ1IB-hODTfK9Uz0uTouKXGVEReA8kXNBIIaul_/s1600/242350023667375854_pP81yWZY_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhA7M-iPL-m55AxrYzdI8k31XBv1XSQMW7TfZ2h38oGRsWHmM9Actep8WJ-6WN_azoBCJMA__fIJUbh9MeRBOGiOIVYeiZ-t7VOoC0szZ1IB-hODTfK9Uz0uTouKXGVEReA8kXNBIIaul_/s400/242350023667375854_pP81yWZY_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></small><br /> Pinterest<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I've seen this picture many times on Pinterest and I still love it.  It gives an idea of how fresh black and white looks with an accent colour.  </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It is so easy to dream up the schemes, but when you do all the work yourself it usually takes awhile to get into the groove.  Right now my garden is taking priority.  I hope the guest room doesn't take as long as the bathroom!</div></div>

The Tardy Decorator

I can't believe I haven't written a  blog post since May.    I am posting regularly on my Facebook page which is quick and can  be a...

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Chestnut Hill Residence by OMA and A+SL Studios

<div class="MsoNormal"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://goathouse.blogspot.com/2013/07/chestnut-hill-residence-by-oma-and-asl-studios.html" imageanchor="1"><img alt="home design Chestnut Hill Residence" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFicuSt_MSitkr_aSAM5aupiwcV0dWCs6-QcbJuxAJ8nZS9lBfQVzox-WH9Pbk3RkDbEOTHCIxIlI_Pr6ku_4GKNFMo5az5dG6xIXBrlBSWspWoFyqd5abXBvXAdUtwphhLDg_rOF8XF8/s640/Chestnut-Hill-Residence-by-OMA-and-A+SL-Studios-1.jpg" title="Chestnut Hill Residence by OMA and A+SL Studios" width="640"></a></div><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Chestnut Hill Residence addition has been completely design by </span><a href="http://oma-architect.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">OMA</span></a><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span></span><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">and<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><a href="http://www.aslstudios.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">A+SL Studios</span></a><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">. It located in Brookline, Massachusetts. </span></span><br></div><a href="http://goathouse.blogspot.com/2013/07/chestnut-hill-residence-by-oma-and-asl-studios.html#more">... Read More ...</a>

Chestnut Hill Residence by OMA and A+SL Studios

Chestnut Hill Residence addition has been completely design by OMA   and   A+SL Studios . It located in Brookline, Massachusetts. ... Read M...

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Not your average colour scheme

Some colour schemes are a dime a dozen and others are just daring and interesting. Today I'm looking at salmon/coral/melon and pink/rose/magenta.<br /><br />Now I'm not saying I would use these colours in my own home. You can appreciate from afar without committing!  These rooms have just too much colour for my personal style.  I'm attracted to them because they are so vibrant and fresh.  Isn't it a good thing we don't all like the same colours?<br /><br /> How do you feel about these rooms?  If you could transport any of them into your own home would you?<br /><br />This colour scheme seems to be most popular in bedrooms.  <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/65181/Tineke-triggs-contemporary-bedroom-san-francisco"><img border="0" height="334" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/65181_0_8-1000-contemporary-bedroom.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designer/san-francisco" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"> Interior Designer</a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/tineke/artistic-designs-for-living-tineke-triggs" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Artistic Designs for Living, Tineke Triggs</a></small><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">The white bedding  and accessories work well to balance the hot colours.  White has many uses in decor and acting as a backdrop is just one of them. </span></small></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPp4PDgYxbrhnJdiNX-80bOrrQgnE_TwdpoHFUKFp9YcJUtNP1VA6ZZw1TjFrnoe3HvIsbUt4j4Vz24MI5KgKfNTdHklDb5i0qyLjzzSDyxswyt3JLLydgoJXh1oYKXwJ5djIdxEfwOYJj/s1600/kids-room-girls-bed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPp4PDgYxbrhnJdiNX-80bOrrQgnE_TwdpoHFUKFp9YcJUtNP1VA6ZZw1TjFrnoe3HvIsbUt4j4Vz24MI5KgKfNTdHklDb5i0qyLjzzSDyxswyt3JLLydgoJXh1oYKXwJ5djIdxEfwOYJj/s640/kids-room-girls-bed.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPp4PDgYxbrhnJdiNX-80bOrrQgnE_TwdpoHFUKFp9YcJUtNP1VA6ZZw1TjFrnoe3HvIsbUt4j4Vz24MI5KgKfNTdHklDb5i0qyLjzzSDyxswyt3JLLydgoJXh1oYKXwJ5djIdxEfwOYJj/s1600/kids-room-girls-bed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">You can't deny that these colours are great for a kid's room.  I'm really liking the hit of lime green as an accent.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPp4PDgYxbrhnJdiNX-80bOrrQgnE_TwdpoHFUKFp9YcJUtNP1VA6ZZw1TjFrnoe3HvIsbUt4j4Vz24MI5KgKfNTdHklDb5i0qyLjzzSDyxswyt3JLLydgoJXh1oYKXwJ5djIdxEfwOYJj/s1600/kids-room-girls-bed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL04L0fCBHrAsiYvhem0I9EOiLWaQ_Z8OeYNQ8VTSg1OswKQTS4xMd_iMdhyGOujtOcljUY3k2O1EIq8QIRf3dQxMeg774iXgrKMRNRUWBkuyLza0CB-sFaSOlXkMdQmN2NUnuYwHA4Emp/s1600/171277592048510441_qgBbWGky_f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL04L0fCBHrAsiYvhem0I9EOiLWaQ_Z8OeYNQ8VTSg1OswKQTS4xMd_iMdhyGOujtOcljUY3k2O1EIq8QIRf3dQxMeg774iXgrKMRNRUWBkuyLza0CB-sFaSOlXkMdQmN2NUnuYwHA4Emp/s640/171277592048510441_qgBbWGky_f.jpg" width="480" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/color/schemes/cozy-color-schemes-for-every-room/?sssdmh=dm17.587724&esrc=nwdc032112&email=3204547199#page=11">Better Homes and Gardens</a><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is the subtle version of this scheme.  Just a hint of melon with a deeper pink. Both are tempered with lots of off white.  That seems to be a common thread through most of these rooms. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDfPgU9fkgCHvlUm3qo5YreiDwUTigRxBpsfAKAtmfnG8GTMVI-rEXonbfkL-owxwjgO661uJeo7Ygf8wybipciXrvy4uZOrAvsq_T1qclF0Dra6mznQ2Y4vXMs3ahKk31VBzT99KiP1zX/s1600/174021973071576520_W8SMICDD_f.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDfPgU9fkgCHvlUm3qo5YreiDwUTigRxBpsfAKAtmfnG8GTMVI-rEXonbfkL-owxwjgO661uJeo7Ygf8wybipciXrvy4uZOrAvsq_T1qclF0Dra6mznQ2Y4vXMs3ahKk31VBzT99KiP1zX/s640/174021973071576520_W8SMICDD_f.jpg" width="510" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.phoebehoward.net/recent-projects/Island_Beauty/19.aspx">Phoebe Howard</a><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">More vibrant colours against light walls and furniture. The pink is leaning toward purple and there isn't that much of it. <br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/172718/City-Retreat---Girl-s-Bedroom-2A-contemporary-bedroom-chicago"><img border="0" height="576" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/172718_0_8-7923-contemporary-bedroom.jpg" width="384" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPp4PDgYxbrhnJdiNX-80bOrrQgnE_TwdpoHFUKFp9YcJUtNP1VA6ZZw1TjFrnoe3HvIsbUt4j4Vz24MI5KgKfNTdHklDb5i0qyLjzzSDyxswyt3JLLydgoJXh1oYKXwJ5djIdxEfwOYJj/s1600/kids-room-girls-bed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><small></small></a><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/jessicalagrange/jessica-lagrange" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Jessica Lagrange</a></small></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> This room turns it around and focuses on a rich magenta with smaller pops of orange. Do you think the headboard is dramatic enough or would you like to see a big piece of art over it?<br /><br /><b></b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjojJZD_bATwwkbEydqO20KP4PUyAY8CmkxU5yzvBI64Lqkrl2AR1Jmh2CTG_8yLBAftLz-6psTO0LGFDtSDu5jTbx3OXy-0CpvqJKLnOmzK9oVbnzHLwrB5vOfRbEkBn2rI4b5fSIfdg-w/s1600/114415_286x200.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/AVvXsEjojJZD_bATwwkbEydqO20KP4PUyAY8CmkxU5yzvBI64Lqkrl2AR1Jmh2CTG_8yLBAftLz-6psTO0LGFDtSDu5jTbx3OXy-0CpvqJKLnOmzK9oVbnzHLwrB5vOfRbEkBn2rI4b5fSIfdg-w/s1600/114415_286x200.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjojJZD_bATwwkbEydqO20KP4PUyAY8CmkxU5yzvBI64Lqkrl2AR1Jmh2CTG_8yLBAftLz-6psTO0LGFDtSDu5jTbx3OXy-0CpvqJKLnOmzK9oVbnzHLwrB5vOfRbEkBn2rI4b5fSIfdg-w/s400/114415_286x200.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Do you fancy one of these?<b><br /></b></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Living rooms </b></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPp4PDgYxbrhnJdiNX-80bOrrQgnE_TwdpoHFUKFp9YcJUtNP1VA6ZZw1TjFrnoe3HvIsbUt4j4Vz24MI5KgKfNTdHklDb5i0qyLjzzSDyxswyt3JLLydgoJXh1oYKXwJ5djIdxEfwOYJj/s1600/kids-room-girls-bed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/49338/1---other-metros"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/49338_0_8-1000--.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6SFrkSTUbxrz2-afsoo8_UTBEZeKJQNwqhSZxmOwTJ-6hUh1icXhyphenhyphenfZJPfmUmJ5ovhd7imhzTcldJqbQvpZvw9_jDiNBMTe0W5Wa9l6h9Lm2DxIABzDexDDbnJliP9bRDhtyGReoHXTRY/s1600/114391_286x200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="color: #444444;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bhg.com/decorating/color/colors/add-color-through-pattern/#page=7&socsrc=bhgpin033112pinkandorange"> Better Homes and Gardens</a></div><br /><small> <span style="font-size: small;">Lots of white to play with these two vibrant colours. I'm longing for a little more pattern, perhaps a stripe with a third colour thrown in to replace the pink cushions. </span></small><br /><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;">Here are some choice.... </span></small><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6SFrkSTUbxrz2-afsoo8_UTBEZeKJQNwqhSZxmOwTJ-6hUh1icXhyphenhyphenfZJPfmUmJ5ovhd7imhzTcldJqbQvpZvw9_jDiNBMTe0W5Wa9l6h9Lm2DxIABzDexDDbnJliP9bRDhtyGReoHXTRY/s1600/114391_286x200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6SFrkSTUbxrz2-afsoo8_UTBEZeKJQNwqhSZxmOwTJ-6hUh1icXhyphenhyphenfZJPfmUmJ5ovhd7imhzTcldJqbQvpZvw9_jDiNBMTe0W5Wa9l6h9Lm2DxIABzDexDDbnJliP9bRDhtyGReoHXTRY/s1600/114391_286x200.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">I would go for the purple one. How about you?</span></small></div><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;"> While we're at it what let's think about the white vase... Hummm...</span></small></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDUohIbcjaiWCHkI_HZ_Zr2x_555OYwZczRTQD3z6FSp1WYGquzClp1Mxvrgac9QUnM-zFMW9kGgqzHoHscwCaR27ptS4aD_dXoxbTfUkDskgg0mNDY_G8NgEMclBRxseQOeao4Ca9dMYk/s1600/114400_286x200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDUohIbcjaiWCHkI_HZ_Zr2x_555OYwZczRTQD3z6FSp1WYGquzClp1Mxvrgac9QUnM-zFMW9kGgqzHoHscwCaR27ptS4aD_dXoxbTfUkDskgg0mNDY_G8NgEMclBRxseQOeao4Ca9dMYk/s400/114400_286x200.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Choose one</span>.  No matter what pillows you choose there's a vase that works. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><small><span style="font-size: small;">  Can a room be over matched?  YES!</span></small></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJYd9SR5AfaTic-96Fd9_S-OhrUrvukaEc4ntSwWHg_TpiyPDN4omEhv0L7pwngc86O4fvp_ydKBMi-hEFmPuA1JFzJO7-RaCoYrLUieuI_COBm9gqGv5gyUKAcZVKIr5JnI7PrlxM2KH/s1600/beige-and-red-living-room-with-coral-red-curtains-and-armchairs.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJYd9SR5AfaTic-96Fd9_S-OhrUrvukaEc4ntSwWHg_TpiyPDN4omEhv0L7pwngc86O4fvp_ydKBMi-hEFmPuA1JFzJO7-RaCoYrLUieuI_COBm9gqGv5gyUKAcZVKIr5JnI7PrlxM2KH/s640/beige-and-red-living-room-with-coral-red-curtains-and-armchairs.jpg" width="640" /></a><small><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></small><a href="http://www.curtain-designs.info/tag/red-curtain-pictures">source</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Deeper pink leaning toward red with just hints of orange give a totally different look.  In this room a neutral tan  in varying values serves as a backdrop to the vibrant colour. I like the fact that this room is not too over matched.  Lots of pattern in the pillows. <br /></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/172718/City-Retreat---Girl-s-Bedroom-2A-contemporary-bedroom-chicago"><br /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/interior-designer/chicago" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;"></a> </small></div><div style="position: relative;"><div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/simplified_bee_sweet_modern_pink/thing.outbound?.embedder=0&.svc=copypaste&id=30720113"><img alt="Simplified Bee®: Sweet, Modern Pink &amp; Orange Nursery Room for Baby..." border="0" height="600" src="http://embed.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/y/tid/30720113.jpg" title="Simplified Bee®: Sweet, Modern Pink &amp; Orange Nursery Room for Baby..." width="600" /></a></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/simplified_bee_sweet_modern_pink/thing.outbound?.embedder=0&.svc=copypaste&id=30720113">Simplified Bee®: Sweet, Modern Pink & Orange Nursery Room for Baby...</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-large;">Go for it ! </span></div>

Not your average colour scheme

Some colour schemes are a dime a dozen and others are just daring and interesting. Today I'm looking at salmon/coral/melon and pink/rose...

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Sneak peek

It seems I've been in the middle of a bedroom update forever.  It takes so long when you are doing things yourself.  This is the before picture.  My husband loves black and I love geometric patterns.  Everything in this picture including the carpet and window seat are gone or going. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjC259x5mZTndeGevJc9U6btcjz5QPecA8-GbuWH8QSLOBxTNIJizhzIgST8ADgmWQNqU8T97hpxKajcR-mslP10BXrcsnPNlBpkyLcpkSsAsq7XKo5_2VcyTm5vPR0_Gpm1S53R97nKbk/s1600/DSCN386966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjC259x5mZTndeGevJc9U6btcjz5QPecA8-GbuWH8QSLOBxTNIJizhzIgST8ADgmWQNqU8T97hpxKajcR-mslP10BXrcsnPNlBpkyLcpkSsAsq7XKo5_2VcyTm5vPR0_Gpm1S53R97nKbk/s640/DSCN386966.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The new look will be the opposite to the strong contrast of this one. </div><br />The new look:<br />Soft and serene, no one thing standing out- harmonized to the hilt<br />Lots of textures and gentle patterns<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihX6oXa3-CSPl2N-7XaCAqcjkBq5i1h6N9V415Q8kBHatauQh-WFk-FABUffsIhNiJmxcjzYsIzarl9ITcOLlreyUWYm6G7er4Qj1PxhNWsHiQQcKOsAFZ6NjRPhiUYhiSxuo6BXp7Zg_D/s1600/DSCN813966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihX6oXa3-CSPl2N-7XaCAqcjkBq5i1h6N9V415Q8kBHatauQh-WFk-FABUffsIhNiJmxcjzYsIzarl9ITcOLlreyUWYm6G7er4Qj1PxhNWsHiQQcKOsAFZ6NjRPhiUYhiSxuo6BXp7Zg_D/s640/DSCN813966.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> My new duvet cover is very patterned but soft looking.I'm still working on accessory pillows to play with this design. I like to do that when everything else is completed.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVaEyk6Ycaflw8vRw723nHifsfOKFWTDaXMP7hgMMLRyBClsbTmF0uUGNNPIeD7L-spvkA6IjqiP_lo4YpK8wZE7x3Zdpabq9UjBFjVqT9OxV6zfsQ3lN-trsAN0ksGVD1AYvMclCJuBBv/s1600/DSCN810866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVaEyk6Ycaflw8vRw723nHifsfOKFWTDaXMP7hgMMLRyBClsbTmF0uUGNNPIeD7L-spvkA6IjqiP_lo4YpK8wZE7x3Zdpabq9UjBFjVqT9OxV6zfsQ3lN-trsAN0ksGVD1AYvMclCJuBBv/s400/DSCN810866.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Love this basket I found at Winners.  Don't like the dark interior so a little spray paint will be in order.  I want some  very tall  natural colour sticks to put in it.  Still looking. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbgF2Z4H24AT9MfC71-trHrAqyWxC2_uGEgy8MBqCmbZ5Mhu0yyNqNMv1O6TavovprVNH-DM5tTZ28BwT_meEPojGf3MduwgAruSdlphvnk0sHUQOF-2YY_jW7GqzrQNIZmvjiZfu7zs8c/s1600/DSCN811666.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbgF2Z4H24AT9MfC71-trHrAqyWxC2_uGEgy8MBqCmbZ5Mhu0yyNqNMv1O6TavovprVNH-DM5tTZ28BwT_meEPojGf3MduwgAruSdlphvnk0sHUQOF-2YY_jW7GqzrQNIZmvjiZfu7zs8c/s400/DSCN811666.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDYra1FzBvKQr2JDfXlyhXwom4mwWy72nxKEp6htSZw1sahyxoYcLxykRPUdG26wjJuKdCCrYbIliwlseYcQs0-qkb3fXFMYWrQngRTfV6h_TEdMCehGPVeYZFNcu9IUkwoMOmtUAXKpX/s1600/DSCN810966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div> New light fixture from Rona.  I spied this when I was shopping with a client and loved it.  When I went back to buy it,  both styles were marked down to $20.00!  I bought  one of each.  Here's the other style just waiting for a new home possibly in my summer house.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBhjyODiITmyDtY2eKF6rveRMx2kRkby9NX5gC5ENKo6pq5mYaUUQ7aw-See5xspZKN2DxBLnnbmCIT-xy3DdQ6KWDyK8VKQunC14nMufBsQxH9cq_ezyThz8WsABOI_G_XouiyeQmFxRx/s1600/DSCN814066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBhjyODiITmyDtY2eKF6rveRMx2kRkby9NX5gC5ENKo6pq5mYaUUQ7aw-See5xspZKN2DxBLnnbmCIT-xy3DdQ6KWDyK8VKQunC14nMufBsQxH9cq_ezyThz8WsABOI_G_XouiyeQmFxRx/s400/DSCN814066.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGlr1urFwC3tx2NdQ6Y5pgIBAKBUvj3hxOIoTOlGFUGzTKZWbYJZvR4W3ZrhQHJVm1jDnE6aGoVn3DClYfZrsPfj_uvTwZAJwlQfS2ldZwhaNsY3Tqrvul4rNpEzmf6OcT9dFsFQBHwmq/s1600/DSCN812966.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGlr1urFwC3tx2NdQ6Y5pgIBAKBUvj3hxOIoTOlGFUGzTKZWbYJZvR4W3ZrhQHJVm1jDnE6aGoVn3DClYfZrsPfj_uvTwZAJwlQfS2ldZwhaNsY3Tqrvul4rNpEzmf6OcT9dFsFQBHwmq/s400/DSCN812966.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> My refinished oak mid century modern bureau.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3v3RdPNLjeZDGL-ENgfx32IsP8cTQgfkuK4Fj2WXQhJaABFjHRQPPtZ5iiDrVNYaD4fEBeIA3UMRieE_liciEs3fJjIt_bBylHrD6ac1QIylPH4gN4jp22m-iR5_GEITp3sTMOsE9Slg/s1600/DSCN813166.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq3v3RdPNLjeZDGL-ENgfx32IsP8cTQgfkuK4Fj2WXQhJaABFjHRQPPtZ5iiDrVNYaD4fEBeIA3UMRieE_liciEs3fJjIt_bBylHrD6ac1QIylPH4gN4jp22m-iR5_GEITp3sTMOsE9Slg/s640/DSCN813166.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">   Can you believe that I had this beauty in my studio? I stripped it, sanded, created a grayed green wash (water and paint), brushed it on, wiped it off, dried overnight,  and then applied a coat of satin varathane. I left the exposed border and areas behind the drawers natural colour. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can see that I like my hardwood light no matter what the current trends!  This mirror is temporary until I can bring the one I want back from my summer house. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgScC_CsGMgBQdLSxg-Rjz-MM_UAYKJkX0faj2aDmM7zYayK-Nqp-8QV5gdv-rnG92bXFQ6_kxSYy-Y8qrXn688iS2EiDQ-F74igt2AaTD_uGGTVXE-1jMaIE0VPdA56AlMEnx4d_shyphenhyphenr4C/s1600/DSCN811066.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgScC_CsGMgBQdLSxg-Rjz-MM_UAYKJkX0faj2aDmM7zYayK-Nqp-8QV5gdv-rnG92bXFQ6_kxSYy-Y8qrXn688iS2EiDQ-F74igt2AaTD_uGGTVXE-1jMaIE0VPdA56AlMEnx4d_shyphenhyphenr4C/s400/DSCN811066.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Handy hubby made dividers for the skinny top drawer and now I have a very tidy storage space for all my jewellrey.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5OAzzKtmlPCxCcalFN2ygIdmm-ILdrWZAr-xAKPQY9mgWyL2PXf602VXASDGcdYhcH8c9pi71r3tUKHGpbeKvn4b7KMrAXzm86sGPgHLvRfSzXQ6a6kWGgT-QZhYKr0ZvNLeUsTtM-4q-/s1600/DSCN811266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5OAzzKtmlPCxCcalFN2ygIdmm-ILdrWZAr-xAKPQY9mgWyL2PXf602VXASDGcdYhcH8c9pi71r3tUKHGpbeKvn4b7KMrAXzm86sGPgHLvRfSzXQ6a6kWGgT-QZhYKr0ZvNLeUsTtM-4q-/s400/DSCN811266.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> New tray from my sister, two vases originally black got the spray paint treatment. Still working on the arrangement of all these piece and still collecting. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbgF2Z4H24AT9MfC71-trHrAqyWxC2_uGEgy8MBqCmbZ5Mhu0yyNqNMv1O6TavovprVNH-DM5tTZ28BwT_meEPojGf3MduwgAruSdlphvnk0sHUQOF-2YY_jW7GqzrQNIZmvjiZfu7zs8c/s1600/DSCN811666.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/AVvXsEjqX0rpzisoF2uO739sQIJvqaBLTghVCnixppgIxlLgExXbNFxnUySqm8Y2TBrFVGRPRqUMoClOfPh9t_rPXXqAzXmAy3ppTpgd4rj5s5LrU7RqnQp9uiuGkB1o8LGmv2k102AEnvFe41a9/s1600/DSCN812666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqX0rpzisoF2uO739sQIJvqaBLTghVCnixppgIxlLgExXbNFxnUySqm8Y2TBrFVGRPRqUMoClOfPh9t_rPXXqAzXmAy3ppTpgd4rj5s5LrU7RqnQp9uiuGkB1o8LGmv2k102AEnvFe41a9/s320/DSCN812666.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />One of my  mixed media art works called Turning Point, new drapes which are tone on tone with the wall colour - Benjamin Moore AF Collector's Item.  I can't praise this colour enough if you want a warm, soft neutral for any room in your house. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEituu-ztvamhdjlQTV8vV9r9I9KsoIgjuv9g04TvrVaxGTgga8wFmLmPkPXTUd4KzAiv3M04llvix7h0YFqMK-Pv06IAMdl7ANb5jv96-xzeNXip5rmjkPmoDWrp4Tsg8HnMj0LK7BWZvIU/s1600/DSCN813466.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEituu-ztvamhdjlQTV8vV9r9I9KsoIgjuv9g04TvrVaxGTgga8wFmLmPkPXTUd4KzAiv3M04llvix7h0YFqMK-Pv06IAMdl7ANb5jv96-xzeNXip5rmjkPmoDWrp4Tsg8HnMj0LK7BWZvIU/s400/DSCN813466.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />More art work.  I'll always love this piece created by a friend  <a href="http://www.cathydriedzic.ca%20%20/">Cathy Driedzic</a>.    I'm working on a new painting for over the bed.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwGPFSj8b9kxg9DNVeAztKJ9kky5814tuumJOobKrq8A3si9wEncORLM1obXTfvJFLMx-4HMEQaGM-9KC5FpTHcazn_08Oyb624WZVvtSqxDxpgfZ97pzi2mFlssyZemuezq2gbjGiZRna/s1600/DSCN812766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwGPFSj8b9kxg9DNVeAztKJ9kky5814tuumJOobKrq8A3si9wEncORLM1obXTfvJFLMx-4HMEQaGM-9KC5FpTHcazn_08Oyb624WZVvtSqxDxpgfZ97pzi2mFlssyZemuezq2gbjGiZRna/s400/DSCN812766.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> This trunk/bench  is currently being used in place of my built in window seat which had to be removed to lay the hardwood.  Haven't decided if it will stay here or go to the other side of the room where is originally resided. Colour Benjamin Moore AF Wind Chime<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiGlr1urFwC3tx2NdQ6Y5pgIBAKBUvj3hxOIoTOlGFUGzTKZWbYJZvR4W3ZrhQHJVm1jDnE6aGoVn3DClYfZrsPfj_uvTwZAJwlQfS2ldZwhaNsY3Tqrvul4rNpEzmf6OcT9dFsFQBHwmq/s1600/DSCN812966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYgOCQUKnVnbGJ0ZVGmCX3ktnNQmb_PU5KgqJMB-T_6ijnjMXMlp-s96jW2q-A3FA1L3Yh4BXTcGePBeMqv8eTinXrh_S_TwU6M5zvuv1Rr_Dh3kkeopIsxNQENxBBCyk24k6F68ob9LS/s1600/DSCN813266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifYgOCQUKnVnbGJ0ZVGmCX3ktnNQmb_PU5KgqJMB-T_6ijnjMXMlp-s96jW2q-A3FA1L3Yh4BXTcGePBeMqv8eTinXrh_S_TwU6M5zvuv1Rr_Dh3kkeopIsxNQENxBBCyk24k6F68ob9LS/s400/DSCN813266.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> How it currently looks.  Painting is coming down because it is lost in this space. One nail hole to fill in. It will probably go on the wall by the closet - nice narrow space for it. <br /><br />An there you have it.  We are moving to a king size bed and trying to decide on a design for hubby to make.  Too many ideas, too many discussions, and not a lot of patience because I want it done, like yesterday.  The full reveal will come later.  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEituu-ztvamhdjlQTV8vV9r9I9KsoIgjuv9g04TvrVaxGTgga8wFmLmPkPXTUd4KzAiv3M04llvix7h0YFqMK-Pv06IAMdl7ANb5jv96-xzeNXip5rmjkPmoDWrp4Tsg8HnMj0LK7BWZvIU/s1600/DSCN813466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br />

Sneak peek

It seems I've been in the middle of a bedroom update forever.  It takes so long when you are doing things yourself.  This is the before ...

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