Designing Domesticity

FSCP

2012-02-23T13:09:00.000-06:00

It's been a crazy, long week. Last weekend was our annual cocktail party, FSCP. We had family, new and old friends, friends who traveled both near and far, as well as neighbors round. Some of us topped off the party weekend by heading West for some skiing, while others of us enjoyed quiet time with out of town guests.
This mom is tired.

So I thought I'd share a couple of shots from the party - next week I'll be back with more projects including another fun mirror makeover.

Now, onto the party. The weather was mild, the food was plentiful, the cocktails were flowing...I think everyone had a good time. It's a challenge to make the party new and different each year, but I think we pulled it off.

We stuck with some of our standards, like the whiskey snowball, but also introduced some new things. Like a cocktail competition, complete with judging committee and prize package. The lucky winner was a friend from New York, Nancy, who created the Ginger Julep. Tasty.

Homemade Gravlax.

Savory Palmiers.

And of course, Mr. DD baked his little heart out making all the bread to accompany the cheese board.

Thanks to all for coming.

Until next year,

Reader Renovation: Happy Husband

2012-02-21T11:56:00.000-06:00

You've heard the expression: happy wife, happy life? Well, this reader and good friend, Sara, brainstormed and completed a little project to make a happy husband. What a great wife! But more importantly, a great project that I just had to share on...

{Reader Renovations}

Every single time my husband walked through our living room to our front door, he shook his head and grumbled. They violated style, yes, they did, but even more than that, they violated order. Yet there they were: the cords, the cords, everywhere the cords. A tangled mess of wires and cables and cords of the phone, lamp, DSL, you-name-it-variety lay on the floor behind the desk that was ousted from the office to make room for a crib for the third bundle of joy.

You know how you start to get used to something that used to bother you in your own home? Well, that didn't happen to my husband. While it kind of did to me, I decided to devise a plan to hide the cords and restore order to my home (or at least to the floor by the desk). I thought that if I somehow made a back to the open desk, the cords could be hidden and life could be neater. And my husband, happier.

First, like any good wife, I gave my husband a few jobs: measure the space behind the desk, buy plywood (the thinnest he could get), and cut it to the measurements. Meanwhile, I went to the local fabric store and searched for fabric to wrap around the plywood. Now, I must pause for a moment and say that I get TOTALLY overwhelmed at fabric stores. Like, I really need my mom next to me to tell me what to buy. Either that, or I need one of my kids with me as an excuse to leave the store empty-handed, because, well, I am too distracted to make a decision. However, since I didn't have my mom or my kids with me, I circled the upholstery section and forced myself to narrow it down to a couple fabrics, trying to decide if I wanted something that would stand out (a pattern perhaps? a complementary color?) or if I wanted something to blend in. In the end, I decided to go the blended route and chose a textured gold fabric (on sale too!).

I ironed the fabric, grabbed the cut plywood and a heavy-duty stapler. I enlisted the help (supervision?) of my oldest child while the younger two napped and got to work. I basically wrapped the board like a present, stapling the middle of all four sides before doing the corners and edges so that it was even. I only covered one side since I knew the desk was always going to be against a wall.

Once the fabric was stapled to the board, my husband got a hammer and used brass brad nails and began pounding the board to the back of the desk. A few in each side worked out just fine.

We were able to hide all of the cords behind the board, but one problem remained: the DSL modem and wifi router. The modem needed to be plugged into the phone jack located behind the desk, but because of obvious dimensions, it could not hide behind the board. I wanted to hide the modem/router in something, and after a shopping trip to Homegoods, I found a canvas box to do the trick.

And that’s where this story ends, with hidden cords and a happy husband. Life is good.

Thanks so much Sara for sharing this project. Such a great idea and one I might very well be taking on to hide all the TV cords in our living room.

Remember, I'm looking to feature at least one reader a month, so if you have a design dilemma or a project you're particularly proud of, please get in touch.

Until next time,

Stuck in a Rut

2012-02-19T08:17:00.001-06:00

I just realized I've been stuck in a rut. How did this happen? Me, the perpetual re-arranger, stuck in a rut? Not possible.

It's true, it's true. I've just realized that I have had these same three candlesticks on my coffee table since we moved into this house, which is slowly creeping in on 3 years now.

Sure the other accessories have changed over the years, but not the candlesticks.

I can NOT believe it.

Nothing breaks a rut like a forced rearrangement.

Here's how it happened: I had to clear everything off the coffee table to make room for the precious cheese board at our annual FSCP. Hence the forced rearrangement.

Instead of just storing away my beloved candlesticks, I figured why not just relocate them. You know, change it up a bit - it's only been 2.5 years after all.

As long as I was working on the mantel {again}, I figured I might as well throw a bit of spring into the mix. Who can blame me, it's been the mildest winter I've ever experienced in Chicago.

Fresh green paired with white feels so springy to me.

Of course, it's still only February, so a bit of winter coziness is in order - candles and pinecones.

The perfect mix of spring time greenery and wintery coziness.

Hello late winter/early spring mantel. I hope you stay awhile, perhaps not almost 3 years, but awhile all the same.

linking in with:

met monday

Until next time,

Powder Room Reveal

2012-02-16T07:40:00.001-06:00

You've seen the stencil and the mirror, but you haven't seen them together...until now!

Welcome to our newly glamorized powder room.

The new scheme has proved to be pretty tonal, but I'm liking it. {White and cream together has always been a favorite.} In fact, the slightly wilted roses are the only bold color in the space, and clearly, they aren't a permanent feature.

I've kept the rustic hanging shelf, because along with white and cream, casual elegance is also one of my favorite things. Nothing crazy here on the shelves: soaps, scented candle and extra TP. It's not rocket science.

But not everything in this space is new. In fact, the beautiful brass towel bar was here when we moved in. I'm so happy we didn't trash it when we remodeled this room in the early days.

The crystal and brass light fixture is also original to this room. I knew immediately, we'd keep this piece; a good cleaning was all it needed to really shine. And of course, it adds that bit of glamor that I really wanted in this space.

So, there you have it. An updated bath with a casually elegant feel. I may, very well, be in love. How about you?

Linking in with:

Met Monday

Until next time,

Gold Leafed Mirror

2012-02-14T07:26:00.002-06:00

Our newly stenciled powder room was crying out for an updated mirror, something to match our new glammed up look. Initially, I started trolling craigslist and our local discount shops, but I kept coming up empty handed.

I wanted something with loads of detail and an antiqued look {kinda like this one}.

Then I remembered an old mirror that we picked up in London years ago for our nursery/guest room. It was pained a cute rosy pink with golden accents. I loved it when we bought it but never really found a great place for it in this house.

{sorry this is a terrible before picture, but it makes the after look that much more spectacular, right?}

Solid wood with beautiful details, it's a perfect candidate for a little makeover.

{this picture was taken after a coat of adhesive was added, hence the shine.}

To achieve my desired glamorous, antiqued finish, I decided to give gold leafing a try.

I ordered two packs {25 sheets each} of gold leaf composite, adhesive, sealer and an antiquing glaze and got started.

Once the adhesive was dry, each gold leaf sheet was applied using a foam brush. I quickly realized that the foam brush wasn't allowing the gold leaf to get into all the little nooks and crannies so I moved forward using my hands. Needless to say, it started to get a bit messy.

Despite my best efforts, I still couldn't get every little bit covered. At this point, I grabbed my trusty Rub N' Buff in Antique Gold and used a craft brush to cover the bigger areas.

I assumed, in advance, that I'd want to add an antique glaze, and I'm so glad I did. I was really surprised by how bright the gold leaf was.

I covered the mirror with several layers of glaze to achieve my desired look. And, of course, went back in with a craft brush to darken the nooks and crannies.

After each layer, I wiped away the excess with a clean towel.

And now, I have a brand new, much more glamorous, antiqued golden mirror.

What do you think?

Can't wait to show you the mirror paired with the stenciled wall. The powder room has a brand new look and I'm lovin' it!

Linking in with:

House of Grace

Wow us Wednesday

Until next time,

The Project that Almost Did Me In {aka stenciling my powder room}

2012-02-12T10:57:00.002-06:00

In my February plan post, I mentioned I wanted to do some work in our powder room. I'd always thought I wanted to have a statement paper in my half bath, but papers are expensive and not for the commitment-phobic.

The next best thing, I thought, would be to stencil it. I'm not talking about the little stencil borders, I'm talking about an all over bold, graphic pattern - something that might give the impression of wall paper.

{Iron Gate All Over Stencil}

These types of stencils are all over blogland and true to form, I assumed my normal mantra: if I've seen it done, surely I can do it too. Well, let me just tell you, this is the project that nearly had me hang up my beloved DIY hat. Whoever said stenciling is easy, clearly never worked in a small space with lots of corners and moldings.

Here's the brief play by play: It started off easy enough,

Then started to get a bit trickier as I neared the corners,

And THEN became almost laughable when the corners met up with the moldings.

At this point, I realized that the stencil was NOT going to be perfect. Once I came to terms with that, the whole project became much more manageable. In the end, I had to cut the stencil to make smaller pieces that would fit my space. Whatever works, right?

So, it's done.

I thought it would only take me an afternoon. But, in reality, it was a two day project. Mostly because I had to keep walking away because it was SO frustrating, but also because my girls were not wanting to nap! {also very frustrating.}

Is it perfect? No.

Did I go back through with a craft brush to fix some of the bigger areas? You bet I did.

Did I get crazily obsessed over it? I tried not to.

Does it look like wallpaper? Maybe from a distance, but certainly not up close.

Am I still happy with the outcome? Yes, I am.

Linking in with:

Met Monday

Home Stories AtoZ

Wow us Wednesday

Until next time,

Chandy: Basic to Statement

2012-02-09T16:20:00.000-06:00

First, I'd just like to say: Wow, I've received so many nice comments about my living room - thank you, thank you, thank you! The living room has really come together over time with the majority of the items being second hand, so you're approval means even more to me.

But today, I'm not here to talk about the living room; I'm here to talk about the dining room. I've mentioned that our dining room is slated for a makeover later this year. I've started my research for new lighting and....I'm shocked at the prices for chandeliers. I've never really LOVED my old chandelier that came with the house, but I started thinking maybe I should try to spruce it up a bit before I just go out and purchase a new one, willy nilly.

So, here she is, my basic brass chandelier.

Truth is, she's pretty unoffensive; so unoffensive she kind of blends into the room.

Hopefully not when I am done with my mini-makeover.

First step: (Much like the new hooks in our kitchen), I used the brass ager to minimize the shine and distress the finish a bit.

Then I added burlap shades and a burlap chain cover. One of the objectives of our dining room makeover is to, hopefully, make the room more approachable and less formal.

And I have to say, all this burlap is making it look so much better and much less formal!

I especially like the new look at night - beautifully textured light with much better atmosphere. Amazing what a little shade will do for you.

Will I eventually get a new chandelier, maybe. But will this one work for the time being, yes.

My Chandy has gone from basic to statement.

I guess it pays to take another look at what you have before you replace it.

Until next time,

Speaking of Changes in the Kitchen

2012-02-07T16:18:00.000-06:00

Along with the addition of our newly hung breadboards, we've had to make room for some other bread making accessories. Again, counter space is at a premium so adding additional items to our work surfaces left me in search of alternative storage space.

Here's what we're giving a try: a cutting board covering the middle burner of the cooktop. Not only does it provide just a bit more much needed storage space, but it looks good too! Kind of breaks up the industrial feel of the stainless top. Two birds, one stone.

And I have to say, it's working so far. We don't use the middle burner all that often, and if we do, we just lift the whole board and we're good to go.

Now we've got room for our new scale, which Mr. DD uses for his baker's percentage bread recipe. {I'm sure if you ask nicely, he'd consider sharing his new methods.}

Don't know if I've mentioned that there's quite a bit of bread hanging around our kitchen now. Yeah.

Unfortunately, I've grown tired of storing our bread in the oven and/or the toaster oven.

So, now one more item graces our counter tops, my vintage bread canister. I've actually had the canister for years, but since our kitchen renovation its been sitting in the basement. So sad.

But not anymore.

Hey, I guess this post could be my unofficial unexpected storage no. 3 post.

How you like that?!?!

Until next time,

Can't Store It? Hang It. {Unexpected Storage No. 2}

2012-02-05T15:37:00.000-06:00

In my February plan post, I mentioned a little project I had planned for this corner of our kitchen. Truth be told, this corner has always seemed a bit lifeless to me. When we finished our kitchen remodel last summer, we were just so happy to move back into the fully functioning kitchen that some of the little details were left undone.

What do you decorate a kitchen with anyway? The obvious food related art? Something functional? Something unexpected?

As some of you know, Mr. DD has taken up a new hobby - bread making. Although this new hobby doesn't require a lot of stuff, the stuff that he does use is pretty sizable. Our kitchen may be newly fitted, but space is still at a premium. Can you see where this is going??

That's right, we decided to hang some of our breadboards. Design AND function - how about that?

Trying to keep the expense to a minimum I picked up some faux brass hooks and leather shoelaces to hang our breadboards. Unfortunately, I wasn't really loving the extra shinny finish on the faux brass hooks. Now what? Well, after a bit of research I discovered brass and bronze aging solution, and figured I didn't have much to loose, why not give it a try.

A quick bath for my hardware later...they were looking a lot better.

It's a simple solution to darken and age any brass or bronze metals. It's hard to see the difference, but if you look closely you can see the slightly distressed and darkened finished. Nice.

I used the leather shoelaces to make simple hanging loops.

So far we have three boards, but as you can see, there is plenty of room to grow our little collection. I'm loving how easily accessible these boards are. BONUS, I'm also loving how they are decorating this once lonely space.

Who says good design isn't functional?!?

Of course, now I want to change the barstool. What kind of DIY-er would I be without that coming to mind. But that's another project, for another post, for another time.

Linking in with:

Between Naps on the Porch

Until next time,

Living Room {for now}

2012-02-02T10:47:00.004-06:00

In my last post, I mentioned that I would be focusing on the first floor this month. We have our annual cocktail party coming up, so I want the main living areas looking their best.

Walking from room to room, trying to decide what I wanted to tackle, I realized that I was finally happy with our living room.

Of course, there are some little things that I'd like to change, but they fall onto the very long term plan - so I guess it's safe to say that this room is done {for now}. I know, I can barely believe it myself.

Right now, angels have broken into chorus in Mr. DD's head. Music to his ears...a room is finally done.

But I know you saw my little caveat {for now}. A girls always got to leave herself a little wiggle room. Am I right, ladies?

It's so hard to say when a room is done. It's always evolving as new pieces are acquired, seasons change, needs change, etc...

I'm sure I'll be eating my words before I know it.

But {for now} it's done.

Time to move on; close the chapter; take a step away.

And I couldn't be happier.

Linking in with:
Stuff and Nonsense
Between Naps on the Porch
Jennifer Rizzo
Wow us Wednesdays

Until next time,

What happened to January?

2012-01-31T10:42:00.000-06:00

So, I blinked and must of missed January. Seriously, where did it go? All I managed to finish was the playroom. I am finding that hard to believe...mostly because I have big plans for February and now hoping I can get it all done. Scary stuff...

Of course, I can tell you are really intrigued now. Big plans - what could she have in mind? Well, I hate to let you down, really I do, because February will only find me focusing on the first floor. Hopefully completing all those little projects that I've been meaning to get done.

Like some little changes for the kitchen,

updates in the entry,

{this is how she looked in the fall}

and some changes in the powder room.

I'd also quite like to host a giveaway, but first I'd like to reach 500 followers. {Is that really too much to ask?} I put a little request out on Facebook, and managed to get 1 new follower {seriously?}. So please, please, please...if you aren't yet a follower, become one. It only takes a click, right over there on the sidebar. If you are already a follower, please pass along the good word to recruit your friends and family. There's a giveaway at stake here people! Consider it your good dead of the day.

If you don't want to miss a thing, sign un to receive posts directly to your inbox:

Until next time,

Play Date Anyone?

2012-01-29T08:16:00.004-06:00

Ok, we made it. The playroom is finished - newly designed, organized and hopefully, fully functional.

Did I tell you I'm pretty happy this project is over?

I can't really explain it. Just happy to be done.

Chalkboard

Letter Art

Art Center

Who wants to play dress-up? We haven't hit the princess phase yet (yeah), which is just fine by me. So our version of dress-up is really just halloween costumes. She doesn't seem to mind. You know what they say, ignorance is bliss.

This guy is always ready to play. Even when I'm not, thankfully.

I picked up this kitchen at a local yard sale for $20. Best money spent. EVER! Do you know what these things usually retail for? Ridiculous. Why are kids toys so expensive? I mean, really.

Art Clips

We've come a long way, baby.

I think we're all pretty happy this isn't the view we see when we come downstairs anymore.

So, who wants to come play? We're booking dates now.

Linking in with:

Met Monday

Thistlewood Farm

Wow us Wednesday

Until next time,

Creamy Parsnip and Apple Soup

2012-01-26T15:02:00.001-06:00

I know, I know, I know - I promised you a walk through of our newly designed playroom - I am sure you all have been waiting around with baited breath. But here's the situation - I'm sick, my girls are sick, the weather outside is frightful {gray and yukky = no light = not very good pics} - so i'm pulling a little switchero and posting about this fab soup I made earlier this week.

It's just that kind of week; the kind of week when soup is what you need and soup is what you get.

Creamy parsnip and apple soup, via.

Admit it, that looks good. And the good news is - it's super easy to make AND my 3.5 year old ate two whole bowls...and this girl is the pickiest eater ever.

Melt 2 tbs butter in a large pan with 1 tbs oil

Add in:

2 medium onions, chopped

1.5 lbs parsnips, peeled and chopped

Cook over medium heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are translucent.

Add in:

3 large cooking apples {I used granny smith}, peeled, cored and chopped

2 cloves garlic, chopped

Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Pour over 1 liter of chicken/vegetable stock

Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the parsnips are soft.

Off the heat, emulsify with a hand blender or regular blender.

Add about 5 oz milk to reach desired consistency.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

I served mine with croutons, chives and a little sprinkle of fruity olive oil. It definitely hit the spot - just what the doctor ordered.

Weather permitting, I'll be back with some pics of the playroom. In the meantime, enjoy some soup! And have a great weekend.

This recipe was found on BBC.co.uk, from The Hairy Bikers.

Until next time,

LoN knock-off Art Clips

2012-01-24T15:46:00.000-06:00

You're probably familiar with the Land of Nod and all their cute kids stuff. I love wondering around their shop in search of inspiration. The other day, I noticed these:

art clips, via

So cute, but seriously, $15 for some string and clips? I think we all know we can make that quite easily!

Start with a large headed nail.

Attach a cute cover, of your choice, with liquid nails. In this case, I used wooden stars that I picked up at Michael's and painted blue.

I've used three in a row, but I am sure you could make this as long/short as you would like.

Connect each star with yarn, knotting onto each nail.

Attach clips.

I mean, could it be any easier?

A great place to display art. Not to mention a makeshift drying rack for all those little works of art.

{Really into the sticker mosaics at the moment; thanks again Aunt P}

Next up is the final walk through. I'm not going to lie to you, I'm pretty happy this project is over. More fun to use the room than decorate it, I think.

Until next time,

Kids Art

2012-01-22T18:23:00.001-06:00

The other day, while wondering around Michael's hoping for some playroom art inspiration, this idea came to me. Nothing revolutionary, but a fun project all the same.

It started with a pile of letters, that I sprayed with primer.

{Thankfully we had a couple of mild days last week so I could spray outside.}

Then I requested the help of one very excited little girl.

{By far the easiest part!}

This little activity managed to occupy a whole morning.

{Could be the best part!}

Check out that concentration.

A couple of coats later, we ended up with these.

{I accidentally picked up finger paint, so not exactly the look I was going for, but it works.}

Liquid nails makes quick work of adhering the letters to left over MDF, that I painted white, from the Chalkboard project.

I probably should of paid attention to what colors we were painting each letter, but I didn't.

{Once a three year old starts painting, you just go with it!}

She's so proud of her words; loves to "read" them every time we go to the playroom. And I love the memories associated with this little project.

One more little project coming your way and then it's time for the tour. Hope you'll stick around.

Linking in with:

Met Monday

A Simply Klassic Home

Until next time,

Does this Belong

2012-01-20T07:15:00.000-06:00

in my home?

Wall coverings are back, in a big way.
I recently found this paper and immediately feel in love.

But once it was in my house, I started to wonder if perhaps it wasn't too orange.

I want to pull color inspiration from the couch (as seen in the top right corner). The other fabric swatches are found throughout the first floor.

The room in question would utilize fabrics in these tones and be balanced by a big hit of cream woodwork (reference the vase).

What have I learned: It definitely pays to get a sample.

Thoughts? Please share.

Until next time,

Unexpected Storage

2012-01-19T11:53:00.000-06:00

In the linen closet? That's right, more storage in a closet specifically made for storage. Who knew! But if you're like me, living in a house with very few actual closets, you know you have to make the most of what you have.

So what's the solution?

A shoe storage bag placed on the inside of the closet door. It's as simple as that. Actually, I came across this idea in a This Old House article and as soon as I read it I thought to myself - why didn't I think of that? Genius.

I've filled mine with some of my must haves like Shaklee Germ Off Wipes, some of the bulkier toiletries, as well as some rarely used items like seasonal towels.

I'm loving this solution for a variety of reasons - the top two being: it's storing all those little items like wash cloths that take up so much space and it's keeping my toiletries organized so I know when I need to replace something.

Here's how we were looking before...everything fit, but there wasn't much room to grow.

And now.

Ah, that makes me happy. Even if these nicely folded towels and sheets only last through one more wash. At least there will be more room for the future messily folded towels and sheets!

Ok, well, I think I have exhausted this topic for now. But worry not, I'll be back with more unexpected storage in the future.

It's back to more work in the basement playroom for us this weekend - what are you up to?

Until next time,

Art Center

2012-01-17T11:42:00.000-06:00

In my last post, I shared our new chalkboard, which acts as a very kid friendly focal point in our playroom. I went on to say that I believe kids rooms can and should include good design. But alas, not all aspects of a kids space can be more than pure function. Which brings me to our art center.

A simple white shelving unit, brought in from our family room (which incidentally, is also in the basement just across from the playroom), filled with baskets containing all sorts of arts and crafts excitement.

Also moving to the playroom is the refurbished table and chairs, which she received as a Christmas gift last year.

Above a simple art display area.

You might also notice that we've added colored foam play tiles to the floor.

Cork squares from Target.

Don't you just love a 3 year olds smile - so natural!

Target also came through in the pinch with their $1 baskets for crayons, pencils, markers and stickers.

So there you have it. The art center, in all it's glory!

It doesn't take much to make a kid happy after all.

Surprisingly this playroom has come together pretty quickly. I've got a couple little bits left though, like: creating more art display, creating kid participation wall art and I'm even debating adding something to incorporate a bit of stage presence. We'll see..

Until next time,

A Very Kid Friendly Focal Point

2012-01-15T15:22:00.001-06:00

A wall-spanning chalkboard has been in the plans for the new playroom for a long time.

Whenever we visit my parents in Cincinnati, we always go to a restaurant that has a gigantic chalkboard that my daughter loves to draw on. Perfect focal point for a playroom. Who says kids rooms can't incorporate a bit of design?

We determined a location on the back wall for our little installation; got our measurements and headed off to Lowe's. Actually, I decided to task Mr. DD with this little project, so he headed off to Lowe's, measurements in hand (3'x6').

One large piece of MDF and a couple pieces of trim later, the studs were found and the levels were taken. We're ready to do some actual work around here.

Here's an extremely flattering photo of me actually doing said work. What a rarity to get out from behind the camera. Honestly, you must think that Mr. DD does all the heavy lifting around here.

After one coat of primer and two coats of chalkboard paint (sanding between each coat) we were left with this. It's definitely calling out for a bit of trim, don't you think? Me too.

We chose to place the trim directly on top of the MDF, initially gluing it on using Liquid Nails and then applying finishing nails.

The corners were cut at a 45 degree angle using the mitre saw. We also applied additional trim across the bottom to act as a chalk tray.

Colored chalk was a must!

Ah, a very kid friendly focal point.

Best of all, it provides hours of entertainment.

I'll be back with more updates to the playroom soon - we got quite a bit accomplished this weekend!

Linking in with:

Met Monday

Alderberry Hill

Until next time,

Planning a Playroom

2012-01-12T09:49:00.000-06:00

Making our playroom more entertaining, engaging and (quite frankly) attractive has been on my wish list since we first moved into this house. Not to mention on the goal list last year and again this year.

But until recently it has served other purposes. Originally it was Mr. DD's workout space. Then it became the temporary kitchen. After we moved back upstairs into the newly remodeled kitchen, the basement sat virtually untouched (perhaps too much time spent living down there).

I've finally decided that now is the time and here's why:

As our oldest is growing; so is her toy collection.

Winter is upon us; the hibernation is setting in and we need a place to go.

I need a space that can be torn upside down on a daily basis. As I am learning, that's half the fun!

The plans thus far include:

Selecting a suitable floor covering for the "cork" vinyl planking

Incorporating a craft space - i.e., table and chairs

Creating a chalkboard

Organizing all the craft supplies

Creating art display space

Creating kid friendly art

That should keep us busy for awhile...or at least this weekend.

Check me out on Pinterest for a sneak peek at some of my inspirational images.

Until next time,

Reader Renovations: Working with a Sectional

2012-01-10T07:59:00.000-06:00

Today I'm posting a little something different, which I hope you'll enjoy.

I'm loosely titling this series 'reader renovations'. I'm sure you can guess what it's all about, seems pretty self explanatory to me. But in case you want more details - let me enlighten you...

It's all about featuring you - my amazing readers!

If you have a project you are particularly proud of or a design dilemma you'd like help with - contact me and you could be chosen to be featured.

So without further ado, let's kick off this new series!

{Reader Renovations}

Recently my sister-in-law purchased a new custom sectional for her family room. Unfortunately, when it arrived, it wasn't exactly what she had in mind. From a size and comfort perspective, it's perfect; from a color and style perspective, not so much.

So she decided to remove almost everything from the room and start over. This is how the room looks at the moment.

The couch, media stand and lamps are the only items that need to stay.

This is like my dream come true, the chance to decorate a room from scratch. But to some, this kind of task can be pretty overwhelming, so I thought it'd be fun to throw in my two cents and create a mood board for the room.

As you can see, I chose a color pallet featuring yellows, grays, and creams. The colors were chosen to tie in with her existing decor in the living and dining room. You know how important I feel room to room flow is!

Also, she was feeling like the room was too dark and too brown; the hits of yellow will serve to lighten and brighten the space, while the cream will balance out all the dark brown.

{via}

Lighting in the room is a bit of a problem, so I've been sure to incorporate several task lighting options. I'd like to see her existing pole lamps flanking the couch, with a contrasting table lamp (in a lighter color to break up the brown on brown) on the media console.

{via}

The accent chair would be placed opposite the sectional with the accompanying pharmacy-style floor lamp, for a cozy reading corner.

{via}

The sectional is already accessorized with a variety of neutral linen pillows. Adding a couple of accent pillows featuring yellow and gray will help to tie the whole room into one cohesive space.

Other notable highlights are the felted wool pebble poufs that act as both ottomans and floor pillows. Love these and imagine the kids would too! Every room needs a bit of whimsy or something unexpected - and these would definitely provide just that.

To check them out for yourself, click here.

I'm also loving this eclectic wooden box made from schoolhouse rulers.

Click here to find out more.

Look for me on Pinterest for more details on this mood board and other upcoming boards/projects.

And not to worry, I'll keep you updated on the progress of this room as it unfolds. I can't wait to see what she does with it.

Until next time,

Winter Mantel

2012-01-08T14:34:00.002-06:00

The holidays are over. The decorations are down. The house is feeling a bit sad and naked. Time to sort out the mantel.

Something winter-y, but not too Christmas-y.

And above all, I didn't want to have to spend a thing. Time to shop the house.

Candles always feel so winter-y to me, so it was an easy starting point. Funny, I didn't even realize how many hurricanes I actually had.

The candles seemed a bit lost against the light wall color; I needed a backdrop, so I went with my favorite standby, seagrass.

It's my first time using something a bit 'unconventional' on the mantel. I wasn't sure it was going to work, but it's growing on me and I love the color.

I love to decorate with pinecones. These super-sized pinecones were part of my Christmas mantel, but without the greenery they work well as general winter decor.

So much beautiful texture.

The wood shaving wreath made a reappearance and adds another touch of warmth.

The wooden reindeer lived on our dining room table during the holidays, but I think I might like him here better. For some reason, I really feel in love with him this year and I just couldn't bear to put him away just yet.

Couldn't help but end with another shot of my beloved pine cones.

Hey, can you tell I got a new camera for Christmas? I know, finally, right? Learning more and experimenting with it daily. Hopefully it'll start to show soon!

Linking in with:

Met Monday

Alderberry Hill

Until next time,

Seriously, Best Ever..

2012-01-05T07:53:00.000-06:00

When Baby E made her appearance late last year, friends and family alike came by for a visit - and some even brought food! Dear friends, who we met in London and now live here in Chicago, brought an amazing vegetable tart, which I absolutely loved. At first opportunity I wanted to make it myself so I could share the recipe here.

{root vegetable tarte tatin}

Well, I finally got around to it this past weekend. And I am pleased to tell you that it is every bit as good as I remembered it!

I can't wait to share this recipe with you.

( I followed the original recipe for the most part, but did make a couple changes. Click on the link above to go to the original or follow along below.)

Start by preparing your veggies; you'll need:

2 yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch rounds

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch rounds

2 medium parsnips, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch rounds

4 cloves of garlic, cut in half

Combine all of the above in a bowl with 3 tbs olive oil and salt and pepper to taste. Spread evenly, in one layer, on a cookie sheet and bake at 400 for 45 minutes, or until tender.

Meanwhile, slice 2 large onions into thin half moons. Add to a large skillet with a 1 tbs olive oil and caramelize over med-low heat.

And now the fun bit - making carmel. In a separate, heavy bottomed pan place 3/4 c sugar over low heat. As the sugar begins to liquify and darken, slowly drag toward the center of the pan. Take care to not over stir the carmel, try swirling the pan instead. Once you have reached your desired color, remove from the heat and add 1 tbs white wine vinegar and 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper.

Pour into a 9x13 pan. The carmel will solidify quickly, so move fast! Spread with a rubber spatula if possible!

Sprinkle with 1 tbs each fresh sage and oregano.

Arrange the roasted veg and garlic snugly on top of the carmel.

Sprinkle over the caramelized onion. Followed by 1 cup of shredded mozzarella.

Roll out 1 sheet of thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, poke all over with a fork. Lay the puff pastry on top of the cheese, tucking the edges under if necessary.

Bake at 400 for 25 minutes, then turn down to 350 and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the dough is cooked through.

Let cool for 10 minutes then invert onto a serving platter.

And enjoy!

We served ours with an arugula salad and a full bodied Sauvignon Blanc - divine!

Seriously, if you've never tried any of my recipes, this is the one to start with. It's that good. You will not be disappointed.

Special thanks to Daria and Joost for sharing this dish with us. If you have a recipe that you'd like to see featured on Designing Domesticity, please contact me.

Until next time,

Changes Abound

2012-01-03T13:47:00.000-06:00

One of my goals for 2012 is to grow my blog. What does that mean exactly? I'm not sure. But I thought I'd start by updating pages, getting projects organized and creating new features.

Sounds like a good start to me.

How about a tour, you say. No problem, thought you'd never ask.

I've added new text to my About Page. Hopefully it provides a bit more information about Designing Domesticity and me.

Take a look and let me know what you think.

I've finally added a bit of organization to the Project Page. I separated the projects into categories such as: paint, furniture, sewing, crafts, etc. Hopefully this will make searching for tutorials or inspiration that much easier.

And finally, I've organized the Food Page as well. Searching for recipes should be much simpler and quicker now. And let's face it, that's what we are all after, isn't it?

The new year also brings with it a new series on Designing Domesticity to be called, Reader Renovations. The plan is to feature projects provided by you, the reader. If you have a project you are particularly proud of or a project that you'd like some help with, I'd love to feature it. So get in touch (designingdomesticity@gmail.com) and let's talk.

The feedback I've received is that you'd like to see projects outside of my own home - so hopefully this is step 1 in making that happen.

One more little change for the new year, I've joined the ranks of those that love Pinterest. I've got loads of inspirational images saved, so take a look. And you might even see a sneak peek or two on upcoming projects.

Anything else that I've missed? Check the Contact page to let me know.

I'd also like to take this opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you to all my loyal followers and commenters - thanks for staying with me and helping me feel the love.

2012: What's in store

2012-01-02T07:55:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year everyone!

New Year = New Goals, right?

Let's get started.

Well, first off, if you've been following my re-cap of 2011, you can probably guess some of the projects I have planned for the new year. Namely...

Updating the playroom

Finishing off the guest suite
Designing, installing and stocking the wine cellar

Updating the office

But I've also got some other projects planned, both big and small, such as:

Updating the dining room

Hiding more organization throughout the house

Landscaping

Crafting

And of course, I have plans beyond home projects. Like...

Building my blog

Starting a furniture refinishing business
Acquiring more client work
Learning more about photography

Building my Shaklee network

I'm sure the list will change as the year unfolds...as it always does, so I hope you'll stay with me.
If you don't want to miss a thing, sign up to receive posts directly to your inbox: