Thursday, October 11, 2018

One Room Challenge- Week 2





So in case you have not been following along and are wondering what the heck is going on... here is a little recap. (or read week 1 here)

So here it goes... I've decided to participate in something called the One Room Challenge . This is a national event, where designers and decorators transform a room in 6 (yes...SIX) weeks. Every participant has the option to work on a client's space or their own. I have decided to do this challenge with my own living room. It's really a sitting room, as I don't have a television in it, but it's one of the first rooms you see when walking into my home........ and it needs some LOVE. Every week I will be giving an update on what is happening through my blog and Instagram.  For six weeks I will be inviting you into my home, and what I'm sure will be a chaotic mess (packed full of bloopers and surprises) to see first hand what goes into a transformation. I will be getting new flooring, furniture and decor. (well, that's the plan anyway, ha!) The challenge starts October 4th, with the final "reveal day" on November 8th.





This is the inspiration board I created, with the products I wanted.... Unfortunately A few things have since changed.



On a positive note this gorgeous coffee table arrived, and it's even more beautiful in person. This is absolutely going to be the star of the show.





The end tables I chose were simple in style. They were unfinished, so I would have the option to leave them "as is" (which was beautiful) or stain them. I ordered 2,  opened the first one and was immediately impressed. The second table... not so great. It arrived damaged. No big deal, right? I ordered a replacement because I understand things happen in transit. It was defective as well. There's obviously a quality issue with this particular table... so I'm now on the hunt for a similar style table. I'm trying hard to stay "on budget" for this project, so I loved the price tag these offered. They gave me the look I wanted AND an unbelievable price. Ha! I knew better. You honestly do get what you pay for. Anyway... 




On a positive note, the marble side table was delivered and it's a beauty... simple elegance. The stools arrived as well, and they will really help to complete the fireplace space.

I have been notified of a "small delay" for the loveseats... uh oh



Make sure you check in next week for:

1. Choosing artwork... I will be posting options throughout the week. I need you your help deciding!!! It's all abstract... I would love to find a local artist so send me links if you know of any!!! 
2. Pillows... I have found my own fabric, so I need to get these rolling!!
3. Oh, and just how long is that "small  delay"?


Chicly Yours,

Nikole


















Thursday, October 4, 2018

One Room Challenge- Week 1

So here it goes... I've decided to participate in something called the One Room Challenge . This is a national event, where designers and decorators transform a room in 6 (yes...SIX) weeks. Every participant has the option to work on a client's space or their own. I have decided to do this challenge with my own living room. It's really a sitting room, as I don't have a television in it, but it's one of the first rooms you see when walking into my home........ and it needs some LOVE. Every week I will be giving an update on what is happening through my blog and Instagram.  For six weeks I will be inviting you into my home, and what I'm sure will be a chaotic mess (packed full of bloopers and surprises) to see first hand what goes into a transformation. I will be getting new flooring, furniture and decor. (well, that's the plan anyway, ha!) The challenge starts October 4th, with the final "reveal day" on November 8th.

Week 1-

So, I think it's pretty safe to say, I've been my most difficult client to date. I have measured the area, marked it with tape... and....... This room is so odd, right down to the shape of it. There are 2 focal points... the fireplace and the view... so the idea is to situate the furniture to where both can be "enjoyed", if you will. There were 2 items that were completed prior to the start date. I had two speakers that were in the wall. They were not centered properly, and were a complete eyesore. Needless to say, they were removed, and the room was then painted in Espresso Martini...



First things first, I have to decide on fabric. I am custom ordering 2 love seats. Custom orders can take a MINIMUM of 6 weeks... so this is my first priority. There are so many beautiful colors to choose from, but I always gravitate toward blue.



So I've been creating my "mood board". This is an idea of what I have in mind for the space. The professional software I use will not load properly, so I've been forced to use this random "free version", but it always helps to see everything put together. This will be the layout of the room. The love seats will be blue, but not this exact color.   


This has to be my favorite coffee table! I am so excited to order this and see it in person!! 




Flooring... I decided to stick with carpet instead of continuing the wood floor from the kitchen/dining area. It's really just a personal preference. There are so many options to choose from it's unbelievable! Flooring is expensive so make sure you observe it in both natural and artificial light before making a final decision. It's amazing what the difference can be. The 2 carpets below look similar in artificial light, but in natural light they are completely different.


So this concludes the 1st week of the the One Room Challenge!!! By next week I will have the list of everything I need to order, and hopefully get this carpet ripped out!




Friday, September 21, 2018

One Room Challenge oh my

So here it goes... I have decided to participate in something called the One Room Challenge this fall. This is a national event, where designers and decorators transform a room in 6 (yes...SIX) weeks. Every participant has the option to work on a client's space or their own. I have decided to do this challenge with my own living room. It's really a sitting room, as I don't have a television in it, but it's one of the first rooms you see when walking into my home........ and it needs some LOVE. Every week I will be giving an update on what is happening through my blog and video (not too thrilled about the video part but hey).  For six weeks I will be inviting you into my home, and what I'm sure will be a chaotic mess (packed full of bloopers and surprises) to see first hand what goes into a transformation. I will be getting new flooring, furniture and decor. (well, that's the plan anyway, ha!) The challenge starts October 4th, with the final "reveal day" on November 8th. My first video & blog post will be October 4th. Let the fun begin!












Saturday, September 1, 2018

Fall Trends

So.... what's in, what's new, and what's trending this fall? The most important thing is to stay true to your own personal style. There are many ways to update your home without breaking the bank. Changing throw pillows & tabletop settings are an easy and inexpensive way to change with the season.




Houndstooth

This classic pattern is "making it's way back", although I never felt it left. It is a classy addition to any room and there are many ways to make it "work".





Bold Graphic Patterns

You can either start with a throw pillow or dive in with wallpaper. Personally, I'm not that committed, so a great alternative are removable wall murals. They are easy to apply and look fantastic. Feel free to contact me with questions!






Mad 4 Plaid?

There is a place for plaid. Mark my words.... you will be seeing a lot of it.






Old with a Modern Twist

Pieces that steal the spotlight... I love everything about this. I have a couple antique pieces placed throughout my home. Mixing old with the new makes for a well balanced room, and there always seems to be a conversation piece with a story attached.




Curated Look?

What is a curated look? I'm sure you have heard the term a few thousand times by now. A curated look is simply nothing other than using mismatched items throughout your home. It means to collect and display what you love... but in an orderly fashion :) The cost of the items mean absolutely nothing.


Display a Collection

Is there something you collect, or a collection that has been passed down to you? I love love love when a client comes to me with a series of items they would like to proudly display. Not only does it show passion, but a sense of pride for the items that mean most to them. 




Mixing Patterns

Stay tuned for mixing patterns.... I am going to have a series of blogs & posts about how to properly mix patterns throughout your home. Mixing patterns is a favorite of mine!!  
































Tuesday, August 21, 2018

Heart of Traverse Condo

First off, I have to say how excited I am to be a part of this condo transformation. If you're looking for a better location... just stop. A charming neighborhood, steps away from award winning restaurants, events, and nightlife. Oh... and did I mention the tranquil views of the Boardman River throughout the home??? This will be the perfect vacation rental to enjoy with family and friends throughout the year.

Phase 1-

To kick this project off, we staged the home for pictures. The condo was completely empty, so we brought in furniture & decor to show the layout of the home, emphasizing the views. After the photos, everything was removed so the updates can begin! 

















Phase 2- Bring on the fresh paint, lighting & flooring!

Thursday, December 14, 2017

Pantone Color of the Year 2018

I would like to present the Pantone Color of the Year....


"Ultra Violet"


The Pantone Color Institute forecasts global color trends. They advise companies on how to incorporate this color into various products that you will see throughout the year. From packaging, fashion, beauty, and interior decor, expect to see Ultra Violet throughout 2018. 

It's a dynamic & distinctive color, certainly adding a bold statement to any room. 


BOLD


BOLD"ish"


LEAST BOLD


It's quite possibly a "love it or leave it" color, but if you are curious on how to incorporate Ultra Violet into your home, here are a couple different ways....


ACCENT CHAIR





THROW PILLOWS


WALL ART


...OR EVEN A FRONT DOOR


For more ideas or questions on interior decorating join our Facebook Group:

Friday, October 27, 2017

Decorating a Guest Bedroom


GUEST BEDROOMS?????




I think the best way to decorate a guest bedroom, is to think like a guest. What is important to you when staying away from home?

 Is it unpacking a suitcase, and placing your clothes in a dresser?

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Is it cozy bedding?

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 Or possibly a comfortable chair to sit in?

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 A bedside table with a lamp is an important component to any guest room. It is where a guest can keep their jewelry, charge their electronics, or read a book.

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  A mirror would be beneficial as well.
Guests like to have all the comforts of home wrapped into a single bedroom.

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 Neutral walls create a calming environment. Pops of color could be introduced through decor and throw pillows if desired.  

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There are several ways to create a stunning guest bedroom. Click here to check out my curated designs. There are many GREAT selections on this website. Contact me for more information!