Blueprint Bliss

getting there

2012-01-26T15:02:00.000-06:00

I'm feeling pretty settled into my role as mom of two. Gray is such a sweet, sweet baby... so thankful for him. And Collins is sweet too... in his 19 month old way!

The house is slowly but surely coming along. The windows are still bare along with a few empty rooms.. but we have time and are in no rush.

I've been spending some time trying to get my office organized. I have so many fabulous spaces pinned on my Creative Spaces board on Pinterest... but just can't get there with my new home office.

Here are some that are inspiring me:

And here is my office in it's current state... and no I didn't clean up before I snapped the pic.... trying to keep it real around here:

I need to get it organized, find a fabric to cover my bulletin board in and hang it, along with a new fabric for the seat of my chair (it also needs some casters and a fresh coat of spray paint).

I have also been trying to gather up everything for my design business. While my first priority is being a stay at home mom--- I do enjoy working on design projects during my little bit of downtime. I'm trying to get my website up and running along with my rates set, etc. I'm getting there.

*on a funny note... I was kind of reluctant to post a pic of my unfinished office. It's crazy how fast things get pinned on Pinterest these days! I've noticed several pics of my unfinished house on there!

matteart

2012-01-23T14:08:00.000-06:00

Last year Santa brought me two prints by artist Matte Stephens. I had them hanging in my home office in our Birmingham house... but decided to hang them in the playroom in our new house. The three Ikea Ribba frames worked perfectly over this bookshelf/toy storage so I decided to order a third print. The three that I have represent some of our favorite places to visit- NYC, New Orleans, and Boston.

You can see more of his work here.

around here

2012-01-15T09:35:00.000-06:00

Adjusting to life as a mother of two.... I'm enjoying every minute!

It's a . . .BOY!!!

2012-01-10T11:36:00.000-06:00

nursery and big boy room

2012-01-05T20:39:00.002-06:00

The nursery here is pretty much Collins' nursery from Birmingham relocated. The new one is below (and yes... I repainted the lantern & crib. Had to tone it down a bit!). It is ready for Baby #2 who should make his or her arrival within the next week!

Collins has been staying in it for the past 6 months and just last week we moved him down the hall to his new big boy room. Even though he is still in a crib....I am going ahead and finishing the other parts of the room. It will have two Jenny Lind twin beds once he outgrows the crib. But for now... one twin bed is set up and the crib is on the other side.

Here is what I am going with:

Twin beds painted BM's Van Courtland Blue

Standard shams made out of the Doggy Days fabric

Bedskirts and Roman Shades out of the brown/cream ticking

cream quilts (have yet to find these!)*

BM White Dove on walls, trim, & ceiling

jute rug

Very simple but I think it will be great for a little boy. This room should be finished soon and I'll post a pic!

*love the pick stitch quilt from Pottery Barn but don't really want to pay $119 each

My friend in Baton Rouge found this one below for her little boy at Marshall's. I would LOVE to find two of these (looking for ivory/off white... just not a stark white)!

thoughts on the dining room

2012-01-03T13:49:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year! I'm wanting to get things checked off my to-do list before the little one arrives. As I told Doug earlier today... there is a lot to focus on and I keep jumping from one thought to another. Today it's the dining room (yesterday it was barstools for the kitchen and the master bedroom the day before that).

Back to the dining room. I've gone back and forth on this room and it has changed quite a bit (luckily before I committed to anything).

Here is my original design board:

I decided to use my table in the breakfast room so that leaves me with no table (or chairs). I still haven't decided between the two chandeliers but hope to decide this week. The West Elm rug is currently on the floor and the chest is in the room as you can see below... but all of this could be temporary. My new thought is to do a round table. I am leaning towards something inexpensive and with a skirt to the floor... that will get me by for a few years until I can find a pretty antique table that I can afford.

With that said... here is the current state of the dining room (added note: hard to tell but walls, ceiling, & trim are all BM White Dove):

And here is my updated design board (with the two rooms that inspired the round table idea):

Skirted table with possible chairs shown above. Some ideas that I am pondering:

- light fixture above table (I know, I've blogged this before... still loving both of these Visual Comfort Fixtures)

- dark or light table cover

- dark or light panels for windows (and do I do velvet or linen?!)

I love hearing from my blog readers and would love your thoughts!

Thanks a million.

the planner

2011-12-27T19:57:00.000-06:00

It's that time of year. New calendars and planners. Even though I do own an iphone... I do not use it for keeping up with appointments, birthdays, etc. I am a paper calendar kind of girl.

For the past two years I have received this planner for Christmas from Paper-Source which I have really enjoyed:

Tonight while playing on Facebook one of my college friends asked in her status update what planners people recommend. I was blown away that almost EVERYONE responded (over 20 people) with the Erin Condren Life Planner. While I have heard of Erin and her work before... I wasn't familiar with her line of planners. The comments made me want to order one ASAP even though I have a brand new P-S one sitting on my desk!

Do any of you have a life planner by Erin Condren? Would love to hear your thoughts!

let's see here...

2011-12-20T13:36:00.000-06:00

Where did I leave off? I have been a terrible blogger. I would like to say that I might get better... but see number three below.

1. Most (note: most) boxes are unpacked except for a few that are in the living room. Might just leave them there considering it's the only thing keeping the living room company. Oh, that and the Christmas tree.

2. O' Christmas Tree. It's in the stand but has no lights or ornaments. Hope to get to the lights tonight. Ornaments... they can stay boxed up until next year. Not worried about getting them on this week with an 18 month old eager to pull them off.

3. Baby clothes washed, nursery ready upstairs, cradle set up downstairs, my pjs in a pile on my closet floor ready to be thrown in a bag, and a pack of newborn diapers on the shelf. Guess we are somewhat ready for Baby Chamblee to arrive! Three weeks til the due date. Well, we are ready if Baby C is a girl. We have her name. Not so much if it's a boy!

4. Christmas gifts bought. Not wrapped. Hope to get them under the tree (with lights) by tonight.

5. A couple of new blogs that I've been loving. Go check them out if you aren't familiar with them. This one and this one.

6. One thing that I did knock out pretty early this year was our Christmas cards... Merry Christmas! Hope to be back blogging soon!

getting settled

2011-12-07T22:36:00.001-06:00

we are getting settled in the downstairs part of our house and i am so thankful that the renovation is over. it took six months (almost the day). the team that worked was so great... i highly recommend them to anyone that lives in/near the meridian area.

i will post pics soon (though they won't look much different from my progress shots since we have no furniture for downstairs).

but i don't have time to focus on that. tomorrow's task is to purchase another crib to make room for Baby C that is due in less than 5 weeks. gosh... he or she will be here soon.

enough of my rambling... here are some pretty pics from House and Home that I've loved looking at since the Christmas decor in my house this year consists of a tree (that i have yet to decorate):

keeping honest

2011-11-21T13:41:00.001-06:00

In all honesty... I am exhausted. The combination of finishing up a renovation, chasing a 17 month old, and being 33 weeks preggo is exhausting me. But I have so much to be thankful for... and that's what I am trying to focus on this week. And knowing that all of the above was brought on by choice!

The house is almost done. Maybe I will feel a little more rested when it is complete since my brain won't be swirling with thoughts at night? Who am I kidding? We own about 10% of what we need for downstairs... so my next task is to start thinking about the decorating aspect of the house now that the construction is finishing up. I have promised my husband that I am completely okay with the house being empty. I really am. I am just ready for it to be finished and clean and the kitchen up and running. I am perfectly fine with the fact that we will have no furniture in the den (for awhile).

Here are some shots from when I got home from a weekend away yesterday.... I took these with my iphone and didn't plan on posting them on the blog but here they are (so please excuse the mess all around).

My office:

Wet Bar:

Michael's Office:

Powder Bath:

Den:

Kitchen:

Kitchen detail:

Foyer:

Floors are being sanded and stained this week. Fingers crossed that we can move in downstairs (since we are already living upstairs) the first weekend in December... that would make a great birthday weekend!

around here

2011-11-16T13:28:00.000-06:00

Things have been in full force around here. We are about 2.5 weeks out from finishing the house and about 8 weeks from Baby Chamblee's due date.

When I walked downstairs this morning my kitchen backsplash was being installed. At first I freaked out and thought that I didn't like it. Yes... designers do things like that. Often. But I was in a rush....

... to get to Collins' Thanksgiving Party at school (thank you Pinterest for the cookie idea)!

When I got back from the party I told them that I did like the backsplash and they could resume work. I am sure they were thankful to hear that.

I also checked on the powder bath where my painter was working on the planking in a dark wash (SW's Porpoise that had been watered down).... I decided to go dark and thought I could always paint them white/lighter later:

During the little one's naptime I have been ordering last minute things for the house (faucets, hardware, etc) and trying to get organized before the holidays are here. Christmas cards are designed (I just need to have them printed) and most of Collins' Christmas gifts have been purchased. So... lots going on. Now you know why the blog has been so quiet lately!

Promise to get back with the blog... soon!

please share

2011-11-08T20:12:00.000-06:00

Blog readers are the best. Thank you for your thoughts on the kitchen faucet a couple of weeks ago... and for helping me out last week with the Ikea sofa.

I love hearing your thoughts/opinions... so here I am to ask again. I cannot make a decision on my cabinet hardware for my kitchen. I know that I want an antique-ish brass look.

This is the front runner.... from Antique House of Hardware. It's a little darker than I had hoped for (and more $$$ than I wanted to spend). Here is the antiqued by hand one:

*via here

I also bought the unlacquered version (since it was half the price) and tried to 'patina' it myself... not so much luck that department.

Have you seen anything similar? Or would you share your favorite site for hardware? I need some help!

ikea favor... just a photo

2011-11-03T07:35:00.002-05:00

**UPDATE... blog readers are the best. Thanks to all of you who responded, emailed, sent links, photos, etc. It helped me out tremendously. A special thanks to Tessa who took the time to send me pics like these this morning:

After emailing/texting with her this morning... I just realized that I spent some time on her blog last night after Holly introduced it to me!

Is anyone out there going to Ikea anytime soon?! If so.... I'd love it if you'd do me a big favor.

I've been trying to get to the one in ATL for months now and it just hasn't happened. I'd love to see two of the color options for the Ektorp sofa. I am planning on using this sofa in my playroom. I'd love for the white to work (can't beat the price) but it is just too white.

The one I am interested in is the Svanby Beige. But I don't want it to be too pink or too yellow.... so I'd love a shot with your camera phone.

And if you are crazy like me and carry around a fan deck.... let me know what color it is closest to!

Also, I'd love a shot of the Svanby Gray. Same goes for paint swatch.

Or do any of you happen to have one of these slipcovers in your home (could be the chair... just trying to get a good color idea).

Thank you, thank you!

Brooke

a little donkey

2011-10-31T21:29:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween from my little donkey!

oh, the kitchen faucet!

2011-10-28T10:17:00.003-05:00

*UPDATE... I do have an important question. I LOVE the look of the goose neck fixtures... but they are mounted high above the base of the sink. Do those of you who have one have trouble with water splattering everywhere?! The water seems to have a long wall to fall!

This has been a tough one for me... especially as we near the end of our renovation and funds are tight as we try to stay on track. I think it always happens like that.

This faucet is out of the question... though I do love it. But a $1200 Rohl faucet isn't going to happen this time around.

Here are some other contenders that I've found. I really like a bridge faucet... but only the ones that have the two holes and not the three (not counting the sprayer).

This bridge faucet by Kohler is the top runner right now. I actually prefer it over the Rohl which surprises me. I like that it is not mounted quite as high off of the countertop:

Some others that I have pondered... I just wonder if a sprayer could be added to the two below since they aren't shown with one?

here

And an inexpensive one:

Overstock

I have also thought about something like this... though it might be a stretch for me:

But it is found in some fabulous kitchens... like this one:

And you can also see it in Marla's kitchen here that Erika designed.

What are your thoughts? I'd love to hear them!

progress shots

2011-10-24T17:22:00.001-05:00

We are getting there... just a few more weeks. All that is left is painting... and then floors & countertops. I'm so ready.

Kitchen:

Master Bedroom (just painted the walls and are replacing the floors):

My office (a small room that I was able to work into the new floor plan):

Powder bath... decided to go with horizontal planking (to be painted):

And the one room upstairs that we ended up having to touch (aka GUT) is one of the bathrooms. Just waiting on paint, countertops, and plumbing fixtures and it's finished!

finishing up what i started

2011-10-21T13:37:00.002-05:00

You may remember from way back when about a kitchen renovation that I was working on. I know.... forever ago.

I stopped by there today to check on some things and snapped a few pics of the kitchen with my iphone. We are almost finished... just some cafe curtains and some other touches here and there. But thought I would share now or it may not ever happen. Both the homeowner and I are happy with the outcome!

some are new... others are not

2011-10-18T20:24:00.001-05:00

My brain is fried from making design decisions on our house renovation... but I hate to neglect the blog any longer. Here are some of my favorite images that I've seen lately that have inspired me (some are new to me... others are not).

*via Pinterest

and we have...

2011-10-11T20:01:00.000-05:00

... kitchen cabinets! I am so excited they are in. Just a few more weeks and we'll be wrapping this project up. Well, the construction side of it. The decorating/furnishing is going to take a LONG.TIME. Haven't even started thinking about it!

through the iphone

2011-10-05T21:10:00.001-05:00

A little bit of what I've been up over the past week by way of the iphone:

looking at fabric options for Collins' big boy room.....

gathering up some fall clothes for C:

*Several of you have emailed to ask about the appliqued shirts. They are from Tina at Sew Peachy Monograms. Here is her FB page... she does great work!

upstairs bathroom... we're getting there:

we just got back from a few days in Boston visting friends... I snapped a pic of this hardware (yes, in a bathroom stall)

and of a rainy street outside of The Buttery where I met this sweet blog friend for lunch):

passing by a yard in my hometown that is always inspiring:

my dad "Putt" giving Collins some golf lessons:

we now have a pantry:

lots of time chasing this little mister:

more lighting selections

2011-10-04T13:25:00.001-05:00

As I shared last week... I will be using two of the Goodman pendants over my island in the kitchen.

Some of you have asked to see some of my other selections for throughout the house.... and here are most of them. Hopefully they will be installed before long and I can share some installed photos!

Still trying to decide between these two for the dining room... though I know which one I am leaning towards:

Two lamps for the master bedroom:

*everything above from Visual Comfort
**Please email me if interested in pricing/placing an order.**

And a few items from Shades of Light:

goodman pendant

2011-09-28T14:39:00.002-05:00

My kitchen will be mostly white... with a few antique brass accents here and there. I've always loved the Goodman Pendant by Visual Comfort so that's what I decided to go with over my island. They were delivered yesterday and for some reason I thought that they would be both antique brass on the inside and the outside (I honestly don't know why I thought that). But it's just on the outside. At first... I wasn't so sure. But after seeing these images.... I really, really like them!

See... I love the brass on the inside but think the white on the outside is too plain for my kitchen:

Several of you have emailed to ask me about lighting... I'll be sure to show more of my selections soon!

don't freak out

2011-09-27T09:53:00.002-05:00

But I've been drawn to {a little bit} of color and pattern lately. I know, I know... not like me. Maybe my taste is changing a little bit. Just a little.

I'm thinking I would like to do something like this in our guest room. I really like this room. Does anyone have a source for this photo (or the two pillow fabrics...which is really what i am interested in).

*Thanks for your comments letting me know this was in Coastal Living, April 2011.
Here are links to the two fabrics (thanks to Jennifer):
1 & 2

thinking about the pantry

2011-09-25T20:34:00.001-05:00

It's an area that I haven't given much thought.... but now that they are about to start on it I'm thinking I should. It's a small space but could have lots of potential. Here are a few that have caught my eye:

my favorite by Melissa at Veranda Interiors:

Mine will be mainly for food... but look how pretty this is:

And the one we all have saved to our files:

*via here

under a rock

2011-09-20T21:27:00.000-05:00

I decided last week that I must have been living under a rock. I had no clue about the Missoni for Target hooplah until I read all of the blog posts and what people were able to score at their local stores. Not a clue! But that might have to do with the fact that until recently I lived in a town with about 7 Target locations and now the closest one is 90 miles away!

I thought to myself.... too bad I love those flats since they are no where to be found (loved the zig zag pattern--- could care less who made them or where they were from).

Fast forward a few days and look what showed up today in the mail:

One of my dearest friends sent them to me. How VERY thoughtful. She said that they didn't have her size but they had mine... so she thought that one of us should have them! Don't you love friends like that?!

creative spaces

2011-09-14T20:30:00.000-05:00

I love a pretty home office... and I'm quite excited that Michael and I won't have to share one in our new house. I've been trying to decide how to set mine up so that it's the most functional (interior design projects, blogging, sewing, printing stationery, etc). It's a small room but has great potential if I can get it organized just right. Here are some of my favorite spaces that I've pinned on my Creative Spaces Pinterest Board lately.

we have a laundry room

2011-09-09T20:45:00.000-05:00

Well, kind of! The guys are working hard on my house and were so sweet to move in my W/D today before they checked out for the weekend (can't see dryer on the right side because of where I was standing... but we do have one!). We're getting there!

a few things i'm loving

2011-09-08T05:50:00.003-05:00

1. This new tile by Ann Sacks (was introduced to it here). I love the look of antique mirror! Ann Sacks never disappoints.

2. This invite via here.

3. Must try this recipe for homemade butterfingers!

4. This pair of boots for the fall (I would LOVE the gray pair but they are no longer available. Has anyone seen them anywhere)??

5. This inexpensive aged brass table lamp (from here... don't tell!)

love everything about this

2011-09-04T13:35:00.000-05:00

*via Tobi Fairley here

would love your thoughts

2011-09-01T07:38:00.001-05:00

Lots of random thoughts/questions going through my head. So I thought I might ask for your opinion on some things!

1. I have been searching high and low for the perfect hardware for my kitchen cabinets. Pulls for the drawers and knobs for the few upper cabinets. I think I've decided on this style.... I really love the look.

I haven't decided on unlacquered brass and trying to be patient for it to patina... or the hand-antiqued brass.

I will use the 4" (but really wish it came in 6"). Have you seen anything similar anywhere?

vs.

*via Antique House of Hardware

2. Outdoor Furniture... I could go on an on about this. I would like to go ahead and get some but we don't have it in the budget to get what I really would like. If you want something that will last a long time--- you are going to pay for it. I am saving my pennies for this collection by Summer Classics:

*via Summer Classics

I am insipired by this image that I've shown on the blog before:

So what would you do for a temporary fix? Four adidrondak type chairs a table?

3. Dining Room... I've asked two of my most trusted blogger friends and they each picked the opposite from each other. So I thought I'd poll you! My dining room will be small and simple but will be considered a formal dining room. I'm thinking my farm table, slipcovered parsons chair, jute rug from West Elm, etc. The grey painted chest will sit to the right of the one window in the room. The thing I can't decide on is.... the chandelier for above the table. Here are the two that I have narrowed down (on this design board that I quickly threw together):

I haven't decided on the type of panels for the window, lamps, artwork, mirror, etc. And a friend recommended adding a dark band to the bottom of the parsons chairs for some contrast/color.... an idea that I love.

But back to the light fixture.... both fixtures are from Visual Comfort but very different from each other! Which do you like--- the one on the left is the Paris Flea Market Chandelier and the one on the right is Bryant Chandelier.

I think that's enough to cover today. Thanks in advance for your thoughts!

Brooke

some progress shots

2011-08-25T07:28:00.002-05:00

It may not seem like a lot has been done... but after weeks of demo (and a few bumps in the road) it sure is nice to see the house being put back together! Sheetrocking should be finished up tomorrow and then the trimming/painting can begin!

I'll try to include some before photos (from the real estate listing) along with what it looks like today... if I can keep these in order with notes in between the old photo and new!

The view belows shows the wall with the door above removed.... enlarging the kitchen and doing away with the current formal dining room (there will be a new one that is smaller and across the foyer)

the partial red wall below used to open up to the foyer but the opening was moved to the left to the stair hallway....

breakfast room above with door to playroom.... below you can see a view from further back where we took out the door and enlarged the opening to the playroom....

den above.... shot below from further back showing everything stripped down!

playroom above.... and the new playroom below with the closets removed and a new passthrough to the den was made

entering the house above... and below you can see where we closed up the opening to the old dining/new kitchen and moved the entrance to around the corner

standing at the base of the stairs looking at the front door....

Hopefully they weren't too hard to follow... maybe my notes helped to explain the missing openings, walls closed up, openings added, etc!

much better than the dust

2011-08-23T22:02:00.001-05:00

A few pretty images that have been inspiring me as I try to get back into the game of blogging. Looking around online is much more fun than staring at the sheetrock dust that surrounds me. Photos of that to come tomorrow!

*via here

and baby makes four!

2011-08-16T10:45:00.000-05:00

Yes... the Chamblee family is expanding. Baby #2 is due mid-January... making me about 18 weeks pregnant. Or 19. We've had a lot going on and I can't keep up this go round! But we are very excited and can't wait for the newest addition.

Just thought I would share that fun news with y'all. That might explain a little bit of my absence. Pregnancy, chasing a 14 month old, along with a major house renovation... lots going on here in our new life in Mississippi. Oh, and we still don't have cable/internet in our new house. That is to be installed tomorrow so hopefully that will make it easier to blog and check in with you. I'm not savvy enough to try it from my new phone.

We are making progress on the house. I hope to show you some photos later this week since the sheetrock is going up. It's nice to see the house being put back together rather than being torn apart. We are moving in the right direction these days!

In the meantime... here are some photos that have been inspiring me and are helping with some of the details of this renovation:

*via My Pinterest

a few steps back (and some progress)

2011-08-08T10:20:00.000-05:00

It's hard to move forward when you keep moving back. This is reality of a home renovation!

But there are some pretty things to look at. Part of the new stair rail has gone up... meaning we are making progress. Now that this is up we can officially live upstairs!

dear bosch

2011-08-02T19:53:00.002-05:00

Dear Bosch,
I have been researching appliances for weeks now... and I am tired of it. I have looked at everything under the sun- Kitchenaid, GE, Viking, Sub-Zero, Frigidaire, Wolf, and then I learned about you.

I love what I've seen and the prices are great. Customer service has been great to answer my questions. Your prices can't be beat. And your products are made in the good ole' U S of A. Perfect.

One small problem... I would love for all of my appliances to be from the same manufacturer but your side-by-side fridge does not meet my 2 requirements. One I can give up. One I cannot.

My first one was that I wanted a 42" wide unit instead of a 36"... but I decided I could let that requirement go (even though it is still lingering). The one thing I can't let go is:

The dispenser on the front of this unit. Everything about this fridge/freezer is perfect except for that dispenser. I want one without. Can you please make me one?! Is a plain front side-by-side too much to ask for?

Thanks so much,
Brooke

sun valley + a wedding

2011-08-01T07:30:00.001-05:00

Michael and I recently spent a wonderful week in Sun Valley, Idaho... it was an amazing time away. Here are a few photos from our trip.

Michael fishing on Silver Creek

Redfish Lake

The Avett Brothers Concert at the Sun Valley Pavillion

And speaking of Sun Valley--- I am sure you all remember this fabulous house that was published in Elle Decor last November. Fabulous.

A friend recently sent me the link to some of the wedding photos of one of the daughters who held her wedding reception there. Beautiful!

*wedding photos by photographer Hillary Mayberry

under stair storage

2011-07-27T11:20:00.000-05:00

We have a small door that will be underneath our stairs leading to a hot water heater. There is some extra room beyond that I won't be able to access because the WH will be in the way and I was trying to think of ways that I could use the space. I love all of these creative ideas found on Pinterest:

*via Pinterest

i'm back

2011-07-25T10:10:00.000-05:00

I'm back. Thanks for hanging in there with my lack of blogging and thanks to those of you who have emailed to check in. All is well. Everything went great with the move and we are settling into the upstairs at our new house while the downstairs is cleaned out down to the studs. Sheet rock should start going up this week and then I'll post some progress pics.

I don't think I realized how much time and effort went into a total home renovation. I've helped people with their homes... but as a designer I've learned that it is much harder to design your own. Much. I get overwhelmed with even the simplest decisions and can't make up my mind about a thing. I'm sure I will be asking y'all for help and your thoughts/opinions.

Here are a few images that have been inspiring me lately as I choose finishes, plan details, etc.

lots going on

2011-07-06T20:41:00.000-05:00

Lots going on in our new neck of the woods. I just don't feel like I can catch up... hence the reason the blog has been on the back burner for a few weeks now. Sorry about that!

Here's a recap of a few things that we've been up to lately.

We celebrated Collins' first birthday at the beginning of June with a small family party at my parents' house:

We celebrated Michael finishing up residency at UAB:

We made a trip down south to the beach this past weekend to visit Aunt Abby and celebrate the 4th of July! Here is a photo of Collins relaxing in the pool...

We returned to find some progress being made on the house (as you walk into the playroom from the back door):

And the upstairs floors have been sanded and stained and are almost ready for us to move in (note- we'll be living upstairs while downstairs is still under construction):

One thing that I haven't gotten around to doing this summer is making one of my favorite recipes... Watermelon Salsa. I know it sounds odd but it is so very good. And best served with Tostito's Lime chips!

Here's the recipe...enjoy!

But there isn't time to make it this week because I must go pack. Michael and I are getting ready to spend a week away here... but more on that when we return!

Downstairs :: Progress

2011-06-28T13:06:00.002-05:00

The main thing that has been accomplished downstairs is demo. They started framing new walls today.. so hopefully I will have some better photos soon. You can see the before photos here. Oh, the joys of renovating!

Walking in the back door into the playroom (you can see through the wall into the den):

Looking at the backdoor that leads out to the garage and the stairs that lead up to the kitchen:

Entering the kitchen from playroom:

Kitchen looking into existing dining (opening up the kitchen and this will be the new breakfast room):

Foyer looking into formal living room (this will be a small formal dining on one side and Michael's office on the other--- once we put up a wall dividing it in half):

Foyer looking into existing dining/kitchen. We will be closing up this opening and making a 5 foot wide cased opening where the 'mural' wall currently is:

Hall/Powder Bath:

Den (you can see into playroom through the studs):

Den (small opening to hall/foyer that we plan to enlarge):

Master Bedroom (existing entrance will be closed up and you can see the beginning stages of where the new doorway will be):

And that's where we are as of today... Thanks for following along!

House Tour: Upstairs (before & during)

2011-06-27T12:47:00.003-05:00

I'm back... I'm back. Sorry for my lack of blogging! There was lots to do our last week in Birmingham and this past week as we settled in.

You may remember this post where I showed photos of the downstairs before the work started. Here are a few of the upstairs... before shots as well as some progress.

Everything upstairs has been painted (BM's White Dove- all walls, ceilings, & trim) and when the carpet was pulled up... original hardwoods were revealed. The refinishing of those will start tomorrorw and a new stair rail will go in and then the upstairs will be 99% complete. We plan to live upstairs once this work is done.

Before:

And as we make progress (still waiting on floors to be refinished, new stair rail, and new light fixtures):

The bedroom below had a bookshelf over the middle window which we removed. Now I am just waiting for them to remove the panel that was mounted to the exterior side:

We weren't planning on gutting this bathroom (just yet) but we ran into some issues with the plumbing interfering with the kitchen ceiling so we went ahead and cleaned this room out!

And a shot from the upstairs balcony:

Come back tomorrow for some progress photos of the downstairs!

a dose of pretty

2011-06-14T06:59:00.000-05:00

Source

Organization

2011-06-13T05:55:00.002-05:00

The move is less than a week away and my house is in complete disarray. I know, I know... it's supposed to be. We are packing up 5 years of living here and moving to another state. But this mess has me craving some organization. Here are some high hopes for the new house:

*via my Organization Board on Pinterest

two weeks (and a winner)

2011-06-06T11:39:00.002-05:00

In the words of Darby....life has simply interrupted my blog!

First... the winner of the Shabby Apple little girl's dress giveaway is Melissa! And speaking of Melissa... she recently used Darby's quote above on a post of her own.

Last weekend Michael and I spent the weekend in Jackson, MS celebrating the wedding of one of his best friends from college. One our way back to Birmingham we stopped in Meridian to pick up the little one and have a little birthday celebration for him. Here we are after the party:

Over the next week and a half I will be busy packing up our five years in Birmingham. Very bittersweet. Our last weekend here will be spent with friends as we celebrate Michael's official completion of his orthopedic surgery residency at UAB.

Lots going on around our house (both here and at the house in Meridian)... so I just wanted to give you an update and let you know that my posting will be few and far between over the next couple of weeks.

I went to check on the house on Sunday and forgot to take photos of the demo that has been done. I hope to do that soon and will update you on that (it's a whole post in itself).

I hope y'all have a great week and I'll check in soon. Sure wish I was as relaxed as Collins was at the pool this past weekend....

Changing subjects... have you seen this giveaway? Oh.my.gosh... what I would do if I won.

ONE

2011-06-03T10:42:00.000-05:00

This little mister is one today. Happy 1st Birthday to my sweet Collins!

even though it's HOT

2011-06-02T07:27:00.001-05:00

as can be and I've been wanting to spend lots of time inside.... I can't stop daydreaming about outdoor spaces. Here are some of my favorites that I have saved on my Exterior & Gardening Pinterest Boards.

a giveaway :: for the little one

2011-05-31T14:09:00.006-05:00

This giveaway comes from Shabby Apple just in time for summer! At Shabby Apple you can find women's dresses (maternity, too), as well as dresses for little girls, jewelry, swimwear, and much more. Shabby Apple also has a Facebook page for you to follow where they offer special promotions and exclusive discounts, so be sure to 'like' them so you don't miss out.

Shabby Apple has offered all the readers of Blueprint Bliss a 10% off coupon code (blueprint10off) that will expire in 30 days. To get your ready for the summer time, Shabby Apple is offering one lucky winner this precious dress for your little one. How cute is this pink and orange medallion print dress?!

Available in both 12-18 and 18-24 month sizes. See more images here.

Please leave a comment with your email address for your chance to win. The giveaway is open until Sunday (6/5) at midnight. Winner will be announced on Monday!

House Tour : Downstairs (Before)

2011-05-26T14:05:00.002-05:00

Thanks to all of you who have inquired but have patiently waited on the photos of the new house. We closed on Friday and demo started today. I ran by this morning to take some before photos and thought I would share them with you! I hope you don't get tired of these posts. My blog over the next few months will be my online journal of this process! We plan to do a good bit of work downstairs to update the house to reflect our style. The only thing that might have to wait is the master bathroom so it will not be demo'd this week with the other things (it will be reevaluated with the budget once we get moving with the rest).

This is the playroom... as you enter the backdoor off of the driveway/garage (washer/dryer used to reside behind the closet doors on the right):

You come up 3 steps from the playroom into the kitchen (my demo guys tearing out the kitchen cabinets):

Looking back towards the playroom opening:

The formal dining room is off of the kitchen:

Hallway off of the kitchen (this view) and foyer is down to your right:

Walking up from the den looking into foyer:

Powder bath is to your left:

Front door entering foyer looking towards den (formal living to right and dining to the left):

Formal Living Room off of the foyer:

Dining Room off of the foyer:

Stairs leading up:

Den:

More of the den (paneled walls in the den to hide 3' deep storage):

Master Bedroom:

Master Bathroom:

Shower to your right and tub to the right beyond it:

And that concludes the tour of the downstairs. I'll post upstairs and the plans for there soon (although 99% of the work/budget is being completed downstairs)!

details for the doggies

2011-05-23T03:56:00.000-05:00

My brain is overloaded with thoughts/details for the new house. Trying to sort and organize and figure out a plan since the time is here.

Although I am not sure if built-ins for the playroom/mudroom will be in the budget during this phase... one design detail that I've kept in mind over the past few months is a place to tuck away a dog bed. Such a simple concept but so smart.

1 :: 2 :: 3

today's the day

2011-05-20T06:33:00.001-05:00

It really is hard to believe that the time has come for us to close on our new house in Mississippi. We're headed that way around noon today and will close this afternoon. Demo will start next week and our official move date is in less than a month. Where does the time go?

This is obviously not our house... but I'm loving the way they have this back patio set up!

I've started packing.... though I haven't made much progress. But I have been working on planning Collins' first birthday party. I cannot believe my little mister will turn 1 just two weeks from today. Here is one of my favorite photos from the past couple of weeks. Collins and Tanner watching their Daddy work in the yard.

Happy, Happy Friday!

Brooke

i love this house

2011-05-18T05:50:00.000-05:00

Southern Living, April 2011

just a few

2011-05-17T06:40:00.000-05:00

Here are a few of my favorite images that I've come across lately that have been saved for future reference:

Source

lots and lots and lots....

2011-05-12T05:50:00.021-05:00

*thanks to those of you who left comments on this post... for some reason blogger acted up last week and erased them!

... of options out there as far as kitchen backsplash options. And I am all over the place. I am doing white honed marble on my kitchen and wet bar countertops.

I first considered subway tile. It's simple and classic. But I have it in my kitchen now and think that I want to do something different.

Then I thought about white marble slab to match the countertops... but think that might be too much solid white marble.

Third... horizontal wood planking. I just don't think I can do this with so many pretty tile options out there.

Here are some mosaic options that are interesting. {Side note about my kitchen--- layout is L-shaped with a break in the long counter with a window/windowseat. Cooktop will be in island. So there is no large span of a space that will have a splash...} With that said... maybe I should do something fun and different!

Saltillo Tiles

This one is simple but with a little bit of interest (and is inexpensive):

Or a mini brick pattern:

Or a simple glass:

LOVE these glass and marble mosaics... LOVE. It's too busy for me for my kitchen... but thinking one of these is a winner for my wet bar area:

Mandala Tile

It also comes in the mini stick pattern which isn't as busy but I sure love the herringbone above:

This is fun....but I think it has too much grey in it for me:

Maharajah Stripe

What would you do?

i'm addicted

2011-05-11T05:40:00.001-05:00

... to Pinterest. Such a great spot to keep all of your images/ideas (with links back to original source).
You have to have an invite to join or request one. Let me know if you'd like one (just leave your email address in the comment section).

You can set up 'boards' and get everything organized to your liking. Here are a few of mine:

Rachel and Holly both have posted about Pinterest that explains it a little better than me... go check them out!

A few images that I have saved....

And one suggestion that I would have (that would help out everyone): When looking around online and you come across something you want to pin--- go to the original source and pin from there.

Example from my blog is this photo below that I have of a Graham and Brown Wallpaper. Instead of linking from my blog--- click the link below it to reference straight from the source.

Source

Do you pin?!

Spring Fling

2011-05-10T07:33:00.000-05:00

Some great looks from J.Crew.... I am tempted to add some things to my cart!

a perfect day

2011-05-09T05:54:00.000-05:00

My first mother's day. It was perfect. Thank you, Collins, for being such a blessing in my life!

please help

2011-05-05T20:18:00.000-05:00

I've had several of you email me to check in and see how things are going. And several have stated that they feel helpless and wish they could help. You can!

Darby posted this list yesterday on ways to help around the area.

One that I know first hand about (my church partners with them and also it is just a few blocks from my house) is Christian Service Mission. They have set up a 'wish list' of things that they need on Amazon.com. You can view it here and purchase one or two or ten items and have them shipped directly to the center for it to be distributed to those in need.

There are lots and lots of things that are needed: diapers, razors, deodorant, shampoo, wipes, baby food, formula, food items, underwear, socks... the list goes on. Please consider buying just a few items... it is simple way that we all can help that will make a big difference.

Thanks so much.
Brooke

paper, paper on the wall...

2011-05-04T05:24:00.006-05:00

While I love the look of wallpaper... I do not know much about it. It's not something that I have used before. I've been searching online looking at options for a possible paper for my powder bath. I go back and forth on this room. Do I use planking like this image that I love so much? Or do I step out of my box and add some pattern?!

Here are a few that I found that I gravitate towards. I'd love to know if you have a favorite or have something that you'd recommend.

here

Darcy from Graham & Brown

I kept searching for geometric patterns but was reminded of this look that I love:

Coastal Living

Alice

Solitude

This overscale floral print from Anthropolgie is fun... it's the palest aqua on a kraft looking paper:

You can see the scale of it here (the one on the top left):

And if I had it in me (I don't)... I'd love to do something bright and fun like one of these:

Sparkle in Teal

Lacework by Amy Butler
*also seen here in Amy's own home

Orla Kiely

But maybe I do have it in me to do something funky/more fun in a small space. I've also thought about ordering a roll and doing something fun behind the W/D in the laundry room where I will have a space between cabinets for a rod to dry clothes on...

I haven't shown any interior photos of the new house--- but here is the powder bathroom from the listing photo:

The cabinet/counter on the right will be replaced with a piece of furniture. So as you can see... there is a good bit of wall space and wallpaper makes me a little bit nervous. And there isn't a photo to show of the laundry room because there currently isn't one... that will be part of the renovation that will take place. I would love to hear your thoughts!

Living Room :: Built-Ins

2011-05-03T05:50:00.000-05:00

A friend recently showed me this living room in an issue of House and Home. Love the simple glass doors on the top of the built-ins. I really, really like this look. No little grubby hands can reach anything (btw, I love the little grubby hands around here)!

I am leaning towards doing something like this in my living room and filling them with books. Then you don't feel like you have to style them with other things!

Brass & Glass Console

2011-05-02T05:40:00.002-05:00

I just purchased this brass & glass console off of Craig's List. Trying to decide if I am going to attempt to unlacquer the brass.... or possibly gold leaf it. I'm thinking it could look really neat with a gold leaf finish and a simple white marble top.

It's the poor man's version of this beautiful console from Pieces:

helping those in need

2011-04-29T04:15:00.003-05:00

Thank you again for all of the thoughts, calls, texts, and emails checking in on us to make sure we are okay. I really appreciate it.

A special thanks to a blog reader of mine for emailing me with these links to let me (and others) know how to help in this time of need. Please see below for ways you can help.

Red Cross Local Locator
Alabama Red Cross
Red Cross Safe and Well, helps let family know you are okay
call 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter. This is National Donations for the Text, so beware. Advise to try a local link provided
Toomer's For Tuscaloosa
How to Apply for FEMA
Volunteer Station
Birmingham Red Cross Donations
MS Red Cross
MS Emergency Management
Mid-Alabama Red Cross Local Donations by County Portal (does not include Tuscaloosa)
Alabama Disaster Relief Drive
Blood Donation Life South
Red Cross Blood Donation
AL Governor's Office Donation Effort

And Paula let me know about what her church was doing:
Church of the Highlands

i want one

2011-04-28T05:40:00.003-05:00

*I usually write my posts the day before and schedule them to post the following morning. That's what I did for this one not knowing what would transpire over night. Just wanted to pop in this morning to let you know that we are okay here in Birmingham. Thanks for all of the emails/calls/texts checking in on us. Praying for those who were affected by this tragic storm. I hope that you will pray for them, too.

I had this grand plan for my breakfast room. Round stained pedestal table with 4 tolix chairs (with 2 extra to pull up as needed).

This + This

But then I came across Shelli's blog and saw this image:

And now I am leaning towards an oval stained table, 4 tolix chairs, and a settee/banquette in a fun print. I just love the look. It reminded me of this image that I have had bookmarked for awhile:

AH&L

Here are some other fun ones that I found online:

West Elm

Anthropologie

Shades of Light

Urban Outfitters

My wheels are turning...as I am thinking that this will be my new plan. And while I kept reading through Shelli's blog I came across this post about Tolix chairs. I loaded up yesterday and headed to our local Southeastern Salvage in search of the chairs... but they only had them in black. Such a bummer. But great deal for anyone who wants them in black---- they are only $75 each and they had a lot!

dark velvet sofas

2011-04-26T07:36:00.003-05:00

Love them? Or not a favorite of yours?

I am thinking about one for our new living room. Not something that I usually gravitate towards... but I have really been drawn to them lately.
.

Miles Redd

Maisons du Monde

Elle Decor

decor pad

Suzanne Kasler

Chad Eisner via House Beautiful

Turner Davis Interiors

decor pad

Southern Living
*while I am leaning towards a brown/grey sofa... I love the one above!

this and that

2011-04-25T05:54:00.006-05:00

I just opened my mail and received this painting that I ordered on Etsy from this seller. I love it. Thanks, Charlotte!

Really like this console that I first spotted here

Thinking about using these bar stools

(I think when I looked at them last week they were $69.99. Or I could have made that up. Did anyone else happen to see that?)

Saw this kitchen while blog hopping this morning. This makes me rethink open shelves. Filing this away in my 'one day' file.

I opened a fun email in my inbox this weekend letting me know that I won these pillows on Elizabeth's first giveaway! I think I have the perfect spot for them in the new house.

Happy Monday!

My House Inspiration: Master Bathroom

2011-04-21T00:02:00.003-05:00

We aren't sure yet if the master bathroom redo will make it into the budget for this first go round or not. While I am trying not to get my hopes up... I am still planning away. Here are a few images that are inspiring the layout/renovation:

1 & 2 :: 3 :: 4

*does anyone have the source for image 5?

i've always been a fan...

2011-04-19T05:56:00.002-05:00

... of this image. I first saw it when it was published several years ago in Laurie Smith's book, Discovering Home.

I was reminded of it this week when it appeared on Holly's blog. I didn't realize at the time that it was a Galbraith and Paul fabric that was used on the chairs. I'm such a fan of their designs.

Wide on the Windows

2011-04-18T05:50:00.000-05:00

I have been brainstorming about what I want to do on the windows in the living room. There are two small windows flanking the fireplace that I will do some simple roman shades on but for the french doors/windows... I have been thinking wide stripes. Here are a few inspiring images:

Little Green Notebook

The Nester

A Thoughtful Place

Tracery Interiors

Brian Watford

While I know the image below is not me (due to the bold colors)... I think it has made up my mind to do a large chevron print for my panels.

Blount Design

I recently purchased several yards of this from Premier Fabrics that I plan to use:

*for some reason they don't have this color on their website but you can order it from here

Floating Sofa

2011-04-14T10:07:00.000-05:00

I really like this living room designed by Bates Corkern Studio. After looking through my files there are very few rooms that have the sofas floating and not placed against a wall. I love how they handled the walkway and the wall behind. Definitely something I am going to keep in mind!

Bates Corkern Studio

Smith Hanes

2011-04-13T05:54:00.007-05:00

You may remember this post in which I talked about a night out at JCT. Kitchen in Atlanta. Not only the was the food wonderful.... the decor was beautiful. After searching around online I found out that Smith Hanes is the designer of the space.

I knew that name sounded familiar and after some more searching... realized some of his work was featured in House Beautiful a few months ago.

And his designs aren't the only thing that are good looking....

Another fun fact... he is married to Alisa Barry who is owner of Bella Cucina. Have you ever been? If not, I highly recommend it. Great shop in the Virginia Highlands area!

*Bella Cucina images via here

looking forward to...

2011-04-11T06:55:00.001-05:00

... being able to decorate my house with Collins' (and hopefully other's) artwork one day!

here

here

here as seen here

How do you display your children's artwork?

this week in photos

2011-04-08T07:05:00.002-05:00

hardware for a kitchen & bathroom project from restoration hardware

the avett brothers at the new amphitheater in tuscaloosa

i highly recommend going to one of their shows if you haven't been before

lunch at v. richards with a friend

dreamcakes in homewood

And my favorite part of the week was when my mom surprised me with some photos of Collins. She had a photographer come over for a little session while Michael and I were on vacation. I loved how they turned out. Here are a few of my favorites:

my love continues

2011-04-07T08:50:00.000-05:00

I'm still a big fan of horizontal planking. I'm still considering it for my living room (one day) and possibly in my master bathroom behind the tub. I love the way it was used in this master bathroom as well as in the children's bathroom:

*via here

{diy} paper wall art

2011-04-06T05:54:00.000-05:00

I saw this on Elements of Style last week and loved the idea. The inspiration below came from West Elm:

You could pick up an Ikea Ribba Frame, some matte board cut to the frame size in your color of choice, and one of these beautiful papers below:

(here)

(here)

... all for about $30 for each completed piece. Has anyone tried this? I'd love to see photos!

more from yesterday...

2011-04-05T05:50:00.005-05:00

Continuing from yesterday's post... napkins really do make such easy pillows. If you can sew a straight line (it's easy--- use the napkin hem as your guide) then you can make one or many!

While searching for napkins for pillow options I started thinking that it might be time to get a new set for me to use at the dinner table when we have friends over. I saw that because we usually use paper when it is just the two of us. I am leaning towards numbers 2, 3, or 4 below--- and some fun news is that they are on sale at West Elm for $12 for a set of four (with free shipping).

1-4 :: 5 & 6 :: 7 :: 8-10

proud mary

2011-04-04T05:57:00.001-05:00

Love these 20" dinner napkins (two for only $30):

That could make this pillow:

Or this fun black and gold print:

to make this:

*by Proud Mary (seen here)

Have you seen any other fun napkins lately that would make a great pillow?

kiddo inspired

2011-04-01T10:44:00.002-05:00

hand embroidered penguin classic covers by Jillian Tamaki... these are AMAZING!

love this room designed by kristen panitch

great way to store books in a playroom

(via here)

cupcake liners and toppers from kate's paperie

Mom Mode

2011-03-31T08:25:00.002-05:00

I promise to be back to design posts soon. We've been in mom/baby mode over here this week.

Lots of friends have been having babies so I whipped up some chicken pot pies on Monday... here they are without the tops on (and the recipe is here in case you are interested):

On to other mom things. I have a question and need some help/guidance.

Collins is ready to move from his infant seat to a convertible car seat. Which one do you recommend? I've read all of the safety ratings, thoughts, etc. and I narrowed it down to a few and ended up picking up this one yesterday at Target:

Graco MyRide 65

As you've probably heard (it's been all over the news this past week since released)--- toddlers are suggested to stay rear facing until age 2. When this seat is installed (rear facing) in my backseat (and I have a large SUV) I have to put my passenger seat pretty far forward to make this fit. Is this seat extra large? Do I need to take it back for a smaller one? I know everyone doesn't have a large SUV so I just wanted to see what car seats you might have/what you recommend? I also looked at the Graco ComfortSport (which looks a tad smaller) and the Britax Roundabout 55 (which seems to be about the same size). I'd love any thoughts... suggestions. Thanks!

put on a pedestal

2011-03-30T07:02:00.000-05:00

I've been on the lookout for a stained pedestal table for my breakfast room. I've found several on Craig's List--- I've just been too slow and they've already been snagged up.

Love the look of this one with the industrial chairs:

1 :: 2 :: 3 :: 4

(Cover)ed

2011-03-29T06:24:00.001-05:00

While blog hopping this morning I came across the blog of a friend from church. Kelley and her husband are in the process of adopting their second daughter from China. Kelley has decided to partner with (Cover)ed to help with their fundraising in bringing Caroline home. I thought that the towels were so cute (and go towards such a great cause) that I had to share with you!

Each towel is $25 and their family will receive over 50% of each towel sold to go toward their adoption!

If you'd like to purchase a towel, you can email Kelley at kelley.b.brown@gmail.com. Please put (Cover)ed in the subject line. She prefers cash or check--- but if you would like to pay by paypal let me know and we can figure something out. There is no shipping for Birmingham residents and just $2 for one towel or $3 for 2 or more if you live out of town.

To see all the different color and design options that are available for purchase, please click here (but please email Kelley to order so it can go towards her fundraising).

They would be perfect for a birthday gift, to take to the pool this summer, or to include in an Easter Basket:

Go here to this post on Kelley's blog and enter her giveaway to win one of these precious towels! Please let her know that I sent you over. Thanks for your support!

a small reveal

2011-03-25T06:01:00.004-05:00

I've been busy working on a kitchen renovation that has ended up including parts of the dining room, foyer, guest bedroom, guest bath, living room, and powder bath. You know how that goes... one thing leads to another. Here's a sneak peek of the work going on in the client's kitchen:

love list

2011-03-24T06:02:00.002-05:00

1. Everything from Oliva Manna. But especially these items:

2. This new scent from Dove:

3. This top from Anthropologie:

4. This simple entryway:

5. This little mister:

carefully cultivated

2011-03-23T06:04:00.002-05:00

I love that Country Living included so many exterior photos of this cottage in this month's issue. The english ivy and oak trees are beautiful!

*photos by Christopher Baker

add this to your list

2011-03-21T08:08:00.001-05:00

Michael and I just returned from a week on Ambergris Caye in Belize. We went to celebrate Michael finishing up his medical residency... and the week away happened to fall on our 6 year anniversary! It was such a great vacation. We stayed at the Victoria House---after staying there, talking to people on the island, and looking around---- it's where we will go back to for future vacations. I highly recommend adding it to your list of vacation spots.

The view from the front porch of our casita:

Michael fished for two and a half days--- so I joined him for one of his half day trips:

Dinner and Drinks around the Island:

Sunrise

My view for the week! I stayed poolside which was pretty much on the beach:

Kitchen Overhaul by Abode Love

2011-03-18T06:05:00.000-05:00

Hello all of you people who LOVE abodes! I am Laurel-Dawn from Abode Love and I am here to share my kitchen remodel with all of you! (Thanks for the feature Brooke!) So fasten your seatbelt and get ready to see my skank-tastic kitchen become lovely. (and a LOT less granola-ish... this girl doesn't like granola!)

Check out that gorgeous light fixture-- Also, don't you just love how I didn't use primer?! I should have used primer... the deep brown looked purple for far too many coats of paint... live and learn!

After painting the walls it was much better-- but it was still just too dark for my taste.

Now it was time to paint those skank cabinets! It was a really long process- but completely worth it.

Colonel Dad coming over to begin demo on the backsplash.

kitchen backsplash and countertops being gutted... read more about this here

skank countertops gone... backsplash gone... sheetrock gone by default...

new granite and sink! I got a GREAT deal on this DEEP and beautiful sink on Overstock.com!

read more about this here, and here, and here

I added about 3 inches to the overhang on our bar to gain more counter space and make the bar seating more comfortable. I would have liked to add another foot- but without support, I didn't want to take the chance. Also- the island isn't made of solid wood... these cabinets are mostly particle board... and granite is hea-vy. All that said, I'm content with an extra 3 inches.

fab-faucet installed... (also an unbelievable steal!) read more about this here

new hardware! bye bye knobs! read more about the kitchen hardware here

Colonel Dad laying down tile, I chose a white porcelain tile in a lovely moroccan style shape. I love that it's simple in color and finish, but special because of the interesting shape! read more about tiling here

tile placed... now waiting for grout and lighting...

me applying grout - read more about this here

ready to sponge!

cleaned up- ready for lighting- grout done.

Colonel Dad starting in on the under cabinet lighting

after the under cabinet lighting was installed, we did ONE last thing to the kitchen/dining area....

Ta-Da!

The under cabinet lighting is the icing on the cake! I really love how much it brightens the backsplash- it makes the space look larger than it actually is!

Here is a view from the living room

I really love the West Elm Andalusia runner- it really brightens up the space

I painted the island gray to mix it up a bit- I wanted a custom feel, and I didn't want the space to be overwhelmed with cream cabinetry.

Here's the dining nook... I love the cowhide rug addition, the Pottery Barn chandelier adds glamour to the space- and also notice that I painted the ceiling a warm, metallic gold to warm up the space and tie in the golds and browns that are seen in the tile on the floor... read more about the surprise cowhide addition here.

The center mirror is gorgeous, right? It's from Wisteria- and I couldn't be happier with my purchase. When I planned for this wall of mirrors, I really wanted to be able to hang artwork or mirrors on the wall- so, framing it in was my best option!

I thought about doing the pattern in squares, but I really love the center mirrors being large- I feel like it opens up the space more that if it were divided. I love that this little, dark nook has turned into a shiny, glittering space! The chandelier's reflection adds even more light and sparkle to the space-- it feels MUCH larger now- don't you love that a mirror can give you extra faux square footage? I do!

The mirror in the center also breaks up all the vertical lines with something that feels much more organic and natural.

This image really shows off the metallic ceiling that I painted almost a year ago!

some of these fresh "after" shots were taken around Christmas... which is why there are stockings hung with care...

So THAT was my kitchen's before and after! I am so happy to be visiting all of you today- please stop by Abode Love and say hello! Have a wonderful day abode lovers!

and now, just a little reminder of how the kitchen began...

I had wanted to add mirrors to this small space for years now-- and I finally did it (with help of course!) Read about the process here

Bathroom Designs by Veranda Interiors

2011-03-17T06:04:00.002-05:00

Hello all of you beautiful Blueprint Bliss readers!! It is Melissa from Veranda Interiors helping out Brooke while her and her husband enjoy some time in the sun together. A little background if you are not familiar with my blog, my husband & I own a custom home building company. He takes care of all of the technical items and I am the interior designer that helps make our clients dreams come true. I use my blog as my own personal notebook and also to get feedback from you, the readers. We are currently building our new home so I thought I would share with all of you what my plans are for some of the bathrooms that will be in the home. I hope you enjoy and find a bit of inspiration...

The Jack & Jill Bath

This bathroom will be shared by our 2 boys. Since the home is surround by towering aspens I wanted to bring that element into their room but with a modern twist, here is what I have planned.

1. 36" tall white subway tile wainscoting

2. White hexagon floor tiles

3. Kohler Bancroft widespread faucet in chrome

4. Chrome industrial style lights for above the vanity sinks

5. Yellow & white chevron shower curtain

6. Honed absolute black granite vanity top

7. Cole & Sons Woods Wallpaper

8. Custom Shaker style cabinets in a crisp clean white

Guest Bath 1

So if we decide to expand our family when we are moved in then this room will serve the nursery, but until then this will be a bathroom for guest. I wanted to add some whimsy if it turns into a child's space but also keep it sophisticated enough for guest.

1. Kohler Bancroft Monoblock Faucet with Ceramic Handles
2. Kohler Devonshire under-mount sink
3. Hudson Valley Wall Light
4. VougeBay Glass Bubbles vanity backsplash
5. Caesarstone 3cm vanity top in Blizzard
6. Daltile Octagon & Dot flooring in solid white
7. Houndstooth fabric for custom shower curtain

Ensuite

Oh how I can not wait to use this space! We are going to have a lot of natrual light since the tub will be situated infront of a beautiful bow window. My plan of attack for this room was light and clean, the hardwood is going to add the right amount of warmth and make this space feel like a true retreat.

1. Jado Hatteras Low Spout Faucet in Chrome

2. Visual Comfort Bryant Sconce

3. Callacuta Carrara Vanity Tops & Backsplash

4. Kohler Devonshire Under-mount sinks

5. Wide plank hickory hardwood flooring in a chevron pattern

6. Bain Ultra Naos tub
7. Cheviot 5115 Roman Tub Filler in Chrome (floor mounted)
8. Saltillo Long Octagon Tiles in Callacutta for the shower base
9. Terrasol Calacutta trim pieces for the shower

Powder Room

I love the feeling of an intimate powder room, I know that sounds a bit odd, but it is a space that guest will use when you entertain. They are usually quiet small, so there should be some sort of impact. I am quiet happy with this room and I can't wait to see it come together.

1. Porcher Lutezia Console Lavatory

2. Jado Hatteras faucet in chrome

3. Kohler Bancroft toilet in white

4. Restoration Hardware Venetian Beaded Mirror

5. 6 to 7' tall shaker style wasincoting

6. Wallpaper by Eskayel (I just can't decide which!!)

7.Chandelier by Visual Comfort in polished silver

I am still working on the final plans for our lower level bathroom, it will be dark and manly since that is the man zone area of the home, now of course I still picked it all out, I can't leave that up to the hubs! Be sure to come on over so you know what I decided to do, and additional input is always welcomed!

Thanks so much for having me Brooke, enjoy your time away and I can't wait for a re-cap of the vacation and resort, it looks so wonderful! Mel xo

Neutral Nellies by Bryn Alexandra

2011-03-16T06:02:00.001-05:00

I'm so excited to be a guest blogger on Brooke's blog! I have loved her blog for a while now.. doesn't she post the most beautiful pictures??

Brooke and I share something - we are both self-proclaimed "neutral nellies". What does that mean? While we appreciate all design, you won't find something like this in our own homes:

[ lonny mag ]

Instead, you would find something like this:

[ house & home ]

[ lonny ]

[ lisa sherry interiors ]

[ doug @ tracery interiors ]

For you fellow neutral nellies.. I've selected 5 items that you are sure to love:

Julia Demilune Chest - Home Decorators
I love this bamboo style demilune table. There are so many place it could be used - in an entry, in a dining room, or as nightstands!

West Elm Jute Rug in Flax
Every neutral nelly NEEDS this rug. It's one of my favorite jute rugs out there.

Linen Pintuck Pillow
I great, classic fabric in an unexpected texture.

Calming Abstract Painting
For those who cannot afford a real, large abstract landscape (yet), this is a great option.

Wing Back Chair
I don't think you can be a neutral nelly without a wing back chair :)

Thank you for having me, Brooke!
Bryn of Bryn Alexandra Interiors

Collecting by A Charming Day

2011-03-15T06:01:00.002-05:00

Good Morning! First of all, I would like to thank sweet Brooke for asking me to guest post on her super- charming blog. I am a true admirer of that self proclaimed "Neutral Nelly" and am looking forward to her move to my state of Mississippi!

I write a blog called A Charming Day, which records my ramblings about design, entertaining, and the craziness that are my husband and dog. We have been in our 1930's home for over two years and are constantly renovating, redecorating, and entertaining through it all. I was one of those kids who spent my free time decorating and rearranging my shelves in my room. (Typing that makes me sound like I really needed a life, but I loved it!) One thing I learned was the importance of a good collection. I'm not talking Hummels, unless that's your thing, but more of objects that you love and that inspire you... and plenty of them. Color, texture and my culture are what do it for me. While I would love my collections to be of heirloom diamonds, I settle for other cool hand-me-downs, mixed with some awesome gifts, and even some pieces I find at thrift stores and vintage shops. These are a few of my en masse favorites:

Glass Paperweights. One of my very first collections, I almost died the first time I went to my husband's apartment and he had several scattered around his house. Yay! I pick one up whenever I can. I learned that alone, they were pretty boring. But piled into bowls or milk glass compotes? Yes.

Silver. I know this sounds fancy, but my cousins gave me a silver julep cup for my birthday every year until I was 15. Around age 7, I was pretty upset about it , but look me now! (Great gift idea for kids by the way!!!) I turned my great- grandmother's china cabinet into a home for my silver cups and a few trays mixed with thrift store milk glass, white porcelain from my grandmother and oyster plates from my sister in law. Love the look of silver and white.

Books. Duh. I don't understand people without them! I love stacks and stacks. While they are great filler, they are also wondeful memories of trips, people, and times. I had a bookshelf built in our kitchen just for my husband's cookbooks. I love looking at them!

Art. Yes, I think gallery walls are overdone. But we all love them, and they make us happy. Why not rock out a gallery hallway? Or a gallery powder room. Strength is in numbers! Buy
art that is meaningful to you. And if a small piece is all you can afford, mix it up with other pieces!

I hope you have found this a little inspiring. Get out there and start collecting! Big numbers of small items equal awesomeness. Thanks, Brooke, for letting me visit. Hope you are having a charming day!