modern jane

Chevron Table.

2012-02-10T07:32:00.001-04:00

A while back, I came across this table on Pinterest. Pinned it, of course, and then admired it some more as it kept coming up as others pinned it as well.

Source: google.com via Jane on Pinterest

My question for you is... do you think my guy could make me one? I haven't told him this plan yet but I think it looks relatively simple (?) and I quite adore it. I guess first step would be finding some reclaimed lumber? Also curious to know if anyone knows the original source. My searching turned up nothing. I guess you can tell that I have dining rooms on the brain!

Thanks for all your tips and suggestions for styling my bookcase. I will try to remember each one as I continue to pick away at it!

We have a big birthday party planned here on Saturday night. I'll die if it storms.. what it with the weekend storms this year anyway? FYI.. It isn't supposed to be that way Mother Nature.

I hope you all have a great weekend!

Bookcase Styling Progress.

2012-02-08T23:37:00.002-04:00

It's official. It's harder than it looks! I've been picking away at the styling of my new bookcase and have discovered a few things. First, just because you have a lot of stuff doesn't mean that you can make it all work. Second, I will no longer beat myself up about buying pretty books... they are my favorite part so it's worth it! Third, it's going to constantly evolve. It's inevitable.

I've tried taking pictures on numerous occasions of the progress that I've made with styling, only to look at the pictures then go back and make changes. Therefore, I've decided to show you the pictures, imperfections and all. Believe me, it's killing me that it still isn't "right" but I'm sharing anyway! :)

Love love love my ampersand. We picked it up this Fall on a trip to Halifax. It sits atop some of my favorite books about two of my favorite people. Audrey and Gaga.. two such different women yet each fascinates me equally.

My old pup figurine and hour glass found a home with our small collection of Dwell magazines and Zombie books. (Did you know that there will come a time that they will take over the earth? We will be prepared, will you?) ;)

Four Penguin Classics. Oh, how I want them all...

What would you put in the tall open boxes at the bottom? Suggestions welcomed.

Certainly coming a long but still a ways to go. There are parts I love, and parts that drive me bonkers. In fact, some of it doesn't even look like this anymore because I've already moved things around! Hopefully, I will get to a point that I am happy with it.

As I read this back, I realize I may sound a tad crazy that my mind is so wrapped up in this. The fact is, I really truly love this stuff and it brings me great satisfaction. Maybe I'm a bit nutty after all.

Quick Dresser Makeover.

2012-02-05T20:12:00.000-04:00

I was desperate for more storage in my bedroom so I welcomed this old, well used dresser with open arms. It's seen better days but I actually liked the cracks and dents in the wood. I've had old dressers before, with drawers that didn't shut properly - that drove me crazy! These drawers work perfectly.

I had paint out from doing some touch ups on the bookshelf so I figured why not give it a quick coat of paint? It literally took me 20 minutes to give it a quick coat then I went back and hour later and gave it another quick coat.

A few glass knobs and it feels fresh and new! Well not new maybe, but newer-ish. Gotta love upcycling!

Now I need a new mirror because the dresser was there before was much taller. If I lower this one, I won't be able to see myself in it! I love my little silver piggy bank from the Dollarama. I actually end up using it and it really does add up. Then, I can buy myself a little treat or Girl Guide cookies when they come knocking :)

I'll be back tomorrow with some progress shots of the bookcase. I was a bit over-ambitious about getting all the styling done. I had to prime and paint the new shelves and then realized I likely shouldn't put anything on them for a couple of days. Bummer. I was able to do a few shelves though. Here's a peek.

People laugh at the dog. I think he's cute. Plus, my Dad gave him to me :)

I hope you all had a great weekend!

Well Styled Bookshelves.

2012-02-02T22:35:00.000-04:00

I'm a sucker for anything that is well styled. It takes patience and a good eye. A well styled bookcase is even more challenging because it is so much space and you need a good collection of beautiful books and accessories.

Source: lonnymag.com via Jane on Pinterest

My bookcase (a Christmas present that took a bit of backseat with all the action around here) is nearing completion. Finally. I hope to be begin the task of styling it this weekend. I am super excited to do it but intimidated at the same time. I'm just trying to remind myself of what I tell others (just my humble advice):

Take your time.
Try many different combinations.
Layer! Using different heights and textures.
Photograph it, then analyse it. Sometimes it's easier to pick out what isn't working in a photo.
Live with it a while.
Don't be scared to change it up. Nothing is permanent!

Look at me handing out advice.. talk about putting pressure on myself! Anyway, sorry about the lack of "real" photos this week. With any luck, I'll be back Monday with some progress shots of the bookcase. For now though, here are my favorite style bookshelves.

Source: desiretoinspire.net via Jane on Pinterest

Source: mimiandmegblog.com via Jane on Pinterest

Source: cozamia.com via Jane on Pinterest

Source: google.ca via Jane on Pinterest

Source: rebekahgough.blogspot.com via Jane on Pinterest

Source: alltheshinypieces.blogspot.com via Jane on Pinterest

Obviously, I like a bookshelf that is busy! Lots of books, lots of accessories, lots of personality. Problem is, do I have enough stuff to make it work? Time will tell!

Follow Me on Twitter & Facebook.

2012-02-01T21:37:00.000-04:00

I suppose it's about time! I finally created a Facebook page and started using my dormant Twitter account. I recently upgraded from a standard cellphone to an iPhone 4s and find it so much easier to manage it all. You can like my page or follow me on Twitter by clicking the links on the right sidebar.

I need 2 favors, pretty pretty please.

1. Share you favorite apps with me! I am currently using Instagram and love it but I need more!
2. Cases? I know that to be safe, otterboxes are the way to go but let's face it, I am shallow and want a cute one. I need suggestions!

Of course, a photo-less post just isn't fun, so here is some Pinterest pretty for you.

Source: Uploaded by user via Jane on Pinterest

Source: apartmenttherapy.com via Jane on Pinterest

Source: blog.effortless-style.com via Jane on Pinterest

In other fun unrelated news, PEI was voted #2 for Best Foodie Getaways around the world! This is exciting news around these parts! Check it out here.

Little By Little.

2012-01-31T07:25:00.000-04:00

Things are starting to come together around here. While much of Stephane's furniture was sold, it is the kitchen supplies, accessories, art, and clothes that we've had to contend with. We are far from finished in some ways, but I feel that we are more organized than ever and that feels good. Our project list has grown substantially too, but we love all that stuff so it's all good. (I promised Steph a nice break though before we get going on anything!)

Living with clutter makes me a little anxious. Steph is a machine when it comes to putting things away. I'm a good cleaner and I like to make things pretty, one spot at a time. What a team! Ha!

It has literally has come down to tackling one room, one cupboard, or one closet at at time. Here is a little glimpse of how things have been looking.

And here it is now... ahh... so much better!

I love our little framed print of useful information. Steph found it in an old book and framed it. Just in case you need to calculate the circumference of a circle or British Imperial gallons... hey, you just never know! :)

I love that you can see the reflection of another corner of "stuff". Like I said, little by little!

Did I ever mention that I love love love tulips? Is there a more simple sweet flower? The island grown

ones were on special at Superstore and who could resist on a Friday afternoon with a storm brewing outside? Not me, they bring a little sunshine to my life ;)

Online Shopping Guide.

2012-01-29T19:42:00.001-04:00

One of the biggest challenges when decorating your home on PEI, is the lack of sources available to us. What may seem like a simple afternoon shopping around Ikea to our big city counterparts, would be a dream come true for some of us island design enthusiasts.

Don't get me wrong. A couple of great small home decor stores have cropped up over the last few years and for that we are thankful. However, I know that supplying their stores with up and coming products is sometimes both expensive and challenging.

When I make it to Charlottetown, Winners is my first stop. I'm elated when I've, by chance, caught a new shipment day but most days it's been well picked over and I leave feeling a little deflated. Nothing like getting your hopes up and having them dashed! :)

Oh well. The good thing is that it forces us to be resourceful. It's no secret that my favorite activity is scouring antique and vintage stores for pieces to make my own with a little elbow grease, ingenuity and a lick of paint!

Alas, online shopping is my friend. Free shipping, my bosom buddy. More and more, our favorite companies are now shipping to Canada. That being said, it depends how much you want it because generally there is a cost involved. (Such dismay when you see. Free Shipping! *US only* Argh!)

So here it is. I've compiled a list of my favorite online shopping stores and plan to add to it when new ones crop up. Be sure to read the fine print at each site as some larger items cannot be shipped.

* This guide is intended for Canadian shoppers, more specifically, Atlantic Canadian shoppers:)

West Elm

Furniture, lighting, rugs, accessories

(some things are not available for online shipping but I've called the store in Toronto

and they were happy to ship directly)

Urban Outfitters

Accessories, bedding, rugs

cb2

Furniture, lighting

Pottery Barn

Furniture, lighting, rugs, accessories, bedding

Crate & Barrel
Furniture, lighting, rugs, accessories, bedding

Restoration Hardware
Furniture, hardware and home decor items.

Costco
You need a membership but shipping is free in most cases!

Lee Valley
Cabinet hardware (knobs, pulls etc) and more!

Fabric.com

Best site for modern designer fabrics.

Shipping is somewhat reasonable but join in with a friend to save on costs!

Designer fabrics
Fabric.

Tonic Living ~ a Canadian company

Beautiful fabrics and custom sewing service.

Indigo

Not just books! Great home accessories at reasonable prices.

Etsy

Pillow covers, vintage items, art prints

I'd be lost without Etsy. Seriously! It can be a bit overwhelming unless you are looking for something specific. An unbelievable resource for unique pieces, purchasing directly from the artist.

My Box Buyer

A buying and delivery service for residents of Halifax, Dartmouh, Truro, Moncton, Fredericton, Saint John, PEI and St John's NFLD. Brilliant if you ask me! They will pick up whatever you want from the Ottawa Ikea location (largest in Canada) at a charge of 20% of total order before taxes.

I've not used it yet but definitely plan to!

Please let me know if you know of one I've missed! I'd be thrilled to hear about it! The more the better!

Love = Fashion Illustrations.

2012-01-25T07:37:00.002-04:00

I took an interest in fashion illustrations a few months ago and treated myself to an Esther Bayer print.

Source: etsy.com via Jane on Pinterest

I still think it's delicate lines and soft rose colors are absolutely gorgeous. Amidst the chaos in my home right now, I caught a glimpse of it sitting patiently on my new bookshelf. Waiting for me to clear the clutter around it so it can be on display. (My beloved new bookshelf has become a drop zone for anything without a place...)

My interest in fashion illustrations has become more like an obsession. I've been scouring etsy looking for more artists to love and there is no certainly no shortage. Here are some of my favorites.

Leigh Viner

silverridgestudio

Esther Bayer (From PEI!)

Jessica Illustration

They are all so beautiful. I just want to order them all! Especially considering that most of these prints are less than $30. I will show some restraint though :) We don't have room for anything extra. Operation: Find a spot for everything! Fun, fun!

On a side note. One home that features some of these artists and is absolutely stunning is the home of Christine Dovey from Bijou and Boheme. Her blog is definitely worth a look. I'm so sad I missed her appearance on Steven and Chris! Seriously, she's the bomb.

SOLD.

2012-01-23T08:07:00.000-04:00

No, that sign is not on my house but it is on Stephane's! I apologize for the sporadic posts but we've been super busy around here. We have only one week to get his things out of the home. A lot of furniture was sold but some of it needs to find a new home at my place. So watch for some changes around these parts!

I'm a tad controlling when it comes to the decor in my home, so wish me luck as I try to lighten up a bit and embrace the chaos! Thank goodness he has such great taste! ;-)

Bye bye, beautiful home. It's been a slice!

My Full Moon.

2012-01-19T07:04:00.000-04:00

A few evenings a week, I got to my Crossfit class and arrive home at around 8pm. I love pulling into the driveway and spotting the big glowing moon that hangs in my living room. You really can't miss it!

I've even had a few people walk by and ask me just what exactly it is. When I explain, I wonder if they walk away and talk about how crazy I am:)

If your missed the Zorb Reveal. You can check it out here!

Cozy Nooks Are The Best Nooks.

2012-01-17T07:27:00.002-04:00

The little nook that now houses my new built-in bookshelf was a bit of an annoyance for me over the last couple of years. It was an awkward little open space beside my fireplace, that served no purpose as it was.

I knew I wanted a bookshelf from day one. That didn't stop me, however, from pinning away the many possibilities for tiny little spaces that can be oh-so-cozy! From reading nooks, homes for perfect pieces of furniture to office spaces, here are some of my favorites.

Source: thebooandtheboy.com via Jane on Pinterest

Source: prettypeachpeonies.tumblr.com via Rachel on Pinterest

Source: southernhospitalityblog.com via Jane on Pinterest

Source: thedecorista.tumblr.com via Trish on Pinterest

Source: tumblr.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

Source: hiddeninfrance.typepad.com via Jane on Pinterest

There is something perfectly cozy about a little nook and I like them:)

One Beautiful Winter Day on PEI.

2012-01-15T21:34:00.000-04:00

I mentioned before that I was involved in an amazing project with some wonderful creative ladies, here in PEI. Today was the big day! Eight ladies combined our talents to create a concept wedding showcasing the beauty of winter in Prince Edward Island. It was cold (-22), blustery, and beautiful. A true winter wonderland!

I was lucky to be the event's designer and it was a fantastic experience! I'm dying to share it all with you but I've only got a tiny sneak peek. You'll have to wait for more:)

Our models are newlyweds, who braved the cold for us today, and did not disappoint. They are so in love! And what a stunner she is! These shots are just a glimpse into the day's events.

Be sure to check out these talented ladies!

Rachel Peters - Rachel Peters Photography

Michelle Cudmore - Michelle Cudmore Makeup Artist

Cheryl Weeks - Cheryl Weeks Hairstylist

Alisha-Marie Stephen - Love Charlie

Jennifer Prinz - City View Bakehouse

Jennifer Clark - Kiss The Bride~Wedding and Event Coordination

Kim Roach - Kim Roach Stationary Designs

White Bedding.

2012-01-11T21:35:00.001-04:00

Things are busy here these days, as I have a fun project in the works with some incredibly talented ladies. That's all I can say for now but I really hope to share it with you soon because it is pretty awesome :)

I love love love the fresh feel of white bedding. But what do you do when I have an adorable little black furred Boston terrier named Beaufort who loves to snuggle up under the covers? He is usually completely underneath then realizes he can't breathe and comes out gasping for air.

It's really too cute but it may be time for some darker bedding!

A Thank You and a Guest Post.

2012-01-10T10:00:00.000-04:00

Thanks for the all the comment love yesterday! I'm glad you all liked my entry makeover!

I didn't notice until after but that was my 300th post! Crazy.

If you missed it, you can read about the makeover here.

I am over at Decor Happy today sharing a tip about organizing your jewelery! (I know, shocking! Me organized?) I'm participating with some other pretty awesome Canadian bloggers!

Head here to check it out!

And while you are at it, check out the makeover Vanessa did of her best girl's room. Adorable! The fabric on the headboard and ottoman is gorgeous. Mostly, I'm jealous that she has a Cozamia print!

Entry Makeover Reveal.

2012-01-09T06:44:00.000-04:00

I mentioned a while back that I was doing an entry makeover . I finished it before Christmas but finally got a chance to photograph it today. I can't believe I didn't do this long ago. What was there before did not suit the style of my home at all. Now it seems to flow with the rest of the space!

Here it was before!

Peeling off that wallpaper!

Next we added a shelf of sorts using some leftover scraps of wood and trim.

Once the wallpaper was off, I primed the walls and gave them a coat of white paint.

Then, I taped off some stripes. My brain is not wired for those kinds of calculations so I was a tad frustrated! (If you've done this before, you can relate.) I know they look wonky and unevenly spaced but that's how you do it!

On goes the paint! Two coats.

I had intended go for a very subtle soft blue-grey. The contrast ended up being a bit more than I wanted but all in all, I am happy with the result!

I think the biggest change was the decision to paint the door white. After one coat, I knew it was the right decision. It had really been sticking out like a sore thumb.

We added some hooks that my dad gave me. They were from and old piece and were old and rusted. Steph freshened them up with some black spray paint. The wainscoting was already there. It was my first project with a miter saw, a while back! We picked up the piano bench at a thrift store. Perfect for storing hats and mitts and to sit when putting boots on.

I would still like to add some sort of shade on the window, a bench seat or even a soft patterned pillow and, of course, a mirror. Gotta check yourself out before heading out the door!

What do you think of the freshened up little space?

My Love of Books. Pretty Ones.

2012-01-04T20:15:00.000-04:00

Now that I have my new bookcase, I'm dying to fill it with books. Did I ever tell you that I love books? I love to read but I also love to sit in bookstores and pour through beautiful design books, fashion books and cookbooks (even though I'm not much of a chef). They say you shouldn't judge a book by its cover but for me, a beautiful book will always steal my heart.

Lately, I've started collecting a few. Last Christmas, my sister gave me the Domino: The Book of Decorating and I added a few Jonathan Adler books to my collection as well as the new Design*Sponge book.

I now have 3 of the clothbound Penguin Classics but I want them all! They are just so pretty and I vow to read whatever ones I own. Promise.

Source: google.com.au via Chelsea on Pinterest

This Christmas, I was the lucky recipient of these beauties.

Decorate
(amazing book, in case you were wondering!)

Audrey Hepburn: International Cover Girl

(Not my first Audrey book. LOVE her.)

The Great Gatsby
(yet another collection I'm dying for. So darn pretty!)

Source: thedieline.com via Jane on Pinterest

Today, Stephane and I were out shopping and he bought me another one. An amazing one... I admired it before Christmas and today it was 50% off. Who could resist? Not even him, I guess!

Have you guessed?

Lada Gaga X Terry Richardson

It's big, it's heavy and it's awesome.

She is so freakin' strange, yet so fascinating.

However, it will be placed on the shelf away from the eyes of little ones. (ie racy!)

What do you think of her? Are you a fan?

What are your favorite books? Share so I can add them to my list!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T21:12:00.001-04:00

Source: elembee.com via Cherie on Pinterest

A new day and a new year! I'll be back to blogging this week, I promise. Time to get back in the swing of things; seeing my students tomorrow, back to Crossfit after a week off, and enjoying the clean slate of my home after the big tear down of Christmas decor.

I was over at Hyphen Interiors today sharing a look back at my kitchen renovations.

You can check it out here!

Happy New Year to all my readers and blog friends. I can't to see what the year will bring!

2011 Recap.

2011-12-29T20:07:00.000-04:00

Everyone else is doing it, I figured why not join them?
Here is a bit of a recap of my favorite/most popular posts of 2011.

What inevitably makes them my top posts is, of course, how much traffic and comments the post receives, so to that I owe a huge thanks to my readers. I truly love and cherish each comment that you take the time to write!

After all this time, each one makes me feel all fuzzy inside! Thank you!

The Living Room ~ A Picture Walk.

Black & White Bedroom ~ A Picture Walk.

Annechovie Prints in the Dining Room.

White Painted Floor ~ Part 2 & A Finished Kitchen.

My Home "Office".

DIY ~ Zorb Reveal.

Door Dilemma

Thrilled to be participating in Jennifer from Rambling Renovators's Great Reads 2011 series today. It's an honor to be among so many amazing featured bloggers. Be sure to pop over to her blog and check out the all the Great Read blogs and their favorite post of the year!

My Favorite Gift!

2011-12-28T10:20:00.001-04:00

I don't want to play favorites, because I got some wonderful things this year, but I'm really loving this gift! Stephane built me a built-in bookshelf for the TV and my collection of books and accessories.
There was an awkward little alcove beside the fireplace and I've wanted a bookcase in there since the day I moved in. Finally, this Christmas, I got it!

Here is a photo. As you can tell, there is some trim missing at the top and bottom, plus there will be six more shelves added to the sides. The holidays are so busy that he ran out of time!

Finished or not, I couldn't resist adding a few decor elements. Here is a peek of my Esther Bayer print displayed on one of the shelves.

It seems ridiculous to love something built out of wood so so much. Truly though... I am completely in love with it! Thanks so much Stephane! You're the best:)

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-24T07:59:00.000-04:00

Shopping is done, presents are wrapped, baking is finished and other than a quick trip to the grocery store this morning, I am all set.

Time to twiddle my thumbs and wait for my sister to arrive. It's not Christmas until she gets here!

Here's a couple of shots of Stephane, Beaufort and I in our ugly Christmas sweaters.

It's fairly obvious in the first photo that he is not loving it -at all. The next shot was literally 2 seconds later. Oh well...we tried! :)

This one is better ahhhh sweater free! :)

Merry Christmas everyone! I'm signing off for a couple of days to enjoy time with family and friends.

See you soon!

We Have a Winner!

2011-12-23T20:05:00.003-04:00

I just did the draw for the Esther Bayer print giveaway using random.org.

I'm thrilled to share that Virginia won!

"Wow, Jane! Amazing artist and TOTALLY love that she's from PEI too!

I love the Vogue Brazil painting :)"

I posted the giveaway on my personal Facebook page and was so happy to see that so many of my local supporters signed up to win. I'm happy to say that a print from this talented island artist will be staying right here in PEI!

Virginia recently moved into a new condo in downtown Charlottetown and one of Esther's prints will be fab in her new home! Even better, she recently went on a trip to Brazil so the Vogue Brazil Cover print is perfect for her!

I just framed my own print and it looks a-mazing... I will be back to share it with you soon! :)

Happy Holidays everyone!!

Last Chance to Enter Esther Bayer Giveaway!

2011-12-22T20:52:00.001-04:00

Last chance to enter to win the print of your choice from Esther Bayer's etsy shop!

Contest closes tonight at 10pm AST!

Click here to enter.

Zorb Light Featured at Ikea Hackers!

2011-12-21T16:25:00.003-04:00

Our Zorb light was featured today over at Ikea Hackers!

You can check it out here.

Don't forget to enter my giveaway!

Source: etsy.com via Jane on Pinterest

Win yourself a little Christmas gift from Esther Bayer's etsy shop!

Christmas Home Tour.

2011-12-19T07:11:00.000-04:00

I snapped a few more shots around the house of our Christmas decor. It's more simple than last year but definitely feels festive! I intended to do a bit more but the holiday snuck up on me and we are still in the mist of a few projects. It was best to keep it simple! I thought I'd take you on a quick little tour.

Come on in...

Don't forget to enter my giveaway to win a beautiful print by the talented Esther Bayer!

Esther's Art Shop Giveaway!

2011-12-15T23:18:00.000-04:00

I have an an amazing giveaway for my lovely readers today!

I was perusing some of my favorite blogs the other day and came across an incredibly beautiful piece of art, recently purchased by Christine at Bijou and Boheme (who, by the way, has the most incredible style and her blog is absolutely worthy of visit). I thought the piece would be gorgeous in my bedroom and decided to check out the artist.

I've taken a liking to fashion illustrations lately and Esther Bayer definitely nails them. Her watercolor pieces are based on famous magazine covers. Some are soft subdued shades while others are rich and vibrant. Each one unique.

Source: etsy.com via Jane on Pinterest

And the best part? This talented artist lives right here in Prince Edward Island! I almost fell off my chair when I found out! I even emailed her to confirm! She wrote me back right away and I knew it was a sign... I had to have one! I love etsy because it allows you to support independent artisans and who better to support than one who lives right here on my beloved PEI!

I ordered my print on Sunday and on Tuesday, it arrived! When I opened it, I knew it couldn't be relegated to my bedroom, but rather showcased where everyone could see it. I can't wait to have it framed and share it with you!

Today is your lucky day!

One lucky Modern Jane follower will win a 8.5 x 11 print of your choice from her etsy shop.

Here is how you enter:

1. You must be a follower of my blog.

2. Visit Esther's Art Shop and leave a comment telling me which print you would like to win!

For additional entries:

Facebook, tweet or blog about this giveaway including a link to her shop then leave a comment letting me know you did! One entry for each one!

The contest closes on 12/22/11 @ 10pm AST.

Winner will be announced next Friday.. just in time for Christmas!

* Can't wait till then? Esther is offering 25% off all of her prints until the end on December!

Head over and get yours today:)