My New (Old) Studio

It all started with my amazing find of this vintage Steelcase Desk. Found at the
Salvation Army Thrift
for the glorious price of $19.99.

A week of de-cluttering later, here is my new and improved studio!
(yes, these ARE the after shots... you should have seen it before)...

I have 3 zones; my computer/desk set up,
my 'sewing central' by the window, and,
in between my paper zone where I can create cards or any other
graphic design type project.

my style is lots of color tempered by natural wood finishes
and grounded by the block of black & chrome
via the desk. it's happy, creative space that doesn't take itself
too seriously!

More of the New Bedroom

I have been waiting to post some shots of our updated, de-cluttered bedroom... I fear this is not exactly 'decor worthy' to anyone but myself! However, here it is, in it's less than perfect state...

Now that the apologies are done with, I am in fact very, very pleased with these results. As far as a room to walk into, at any time of day, my eyes feel soothed and my mind at rest. No constant clutter to jar my mood. What I was after was some form of simplicity with a few hits of beauty to catch my eye.

With a very limited budget it was more about what was removed than acquired. This, if anything, is a tip I would pass on to anyone wanting a fresh start with limited funds. Take everything away, out of the room. Get back to the shell that is your space. Re-paint the walls. For myself, a soft white was the way to go. The other big element is your floor. We tore up the wall to wall carpet, (which I got for free from a film set far too long ago) and put down dark wood flooring.

With a new 'shell' to work with, adding elements back in will become a very considered process. I found I did not not want anything to mar the clean envelope. Functionally, I knew a vanity would be a great addition. I searched around and found this one with it's matching bench, already painted white and on sale! Perfect. It is a place to focus in the morning, getting ready for the day. With ample storage my stuff can be tucked away in drawers. (well, mostly).

No money to rid the room of the IKEA bed & dresser but with crisp white sheets and gorgeous new handmade pillowcases in Liberty fabric from elizagran their presence has been elevated.

Not ground breaking or magazine worthy but it sure works for me in my 'real' life!

Fabulous Bookcase

Recently I have been on a re-decorating mission at our house. The kids aren't little anymore and it's O.K. to have an adult space now. I began by taking everything away, repainted, stained the floors and then edited in a big way and only brought back what was essential & beautiful. However, what I felt we needed was one, unifying piece to hold our things in, that kept the look calm and grounded.
One day while out and about I saw this piece in a unique store that sold interesting imported furniture and objects. I immediately could visualize it in the room; my husband was more practical and measured and wondered.... but I prevailed and here it is! I enjoy it every day in that it keeps the space from ever looking cluttered or disjointed. The older I get the more harmony I feel I need in my surroundings...