Some people decorate with their eyes. They see something and know, right away, that they've struck gold, but not me.
Nope.
I've always, always decorated with my stomach.
Weird right?
I know. It sounds odd, but hear me out, because maybe you do this, too.
First, I look at things and contemplate whether or not I think they'll go together. Then I bring them home...or order them online...and set them up in the room I'm rearranging.
During the last step, I sit back and take it all in. Sometimes, things look great, other times, not so much, but the final decision isn't based on a look.
I leave it up to my gut.
Sure, several accents may look equally well in a space, but my stomach always knows which is best. I literally get a physical sign when everything feels right.
And it never fails.
Which is how I knew, from the moment the wallpaper went up in the family room, that it wasn't going to work out.
Like I said before, it looked lovely on paper and in my carefully curated photos, but in reality, the flowers looked orange and, more importantly, the room was almost impossible to accessorize.
I couldn't find my footing and my tummy felt queasy whenever I walked by that unsettled space. I rarely ever poofed the pillows or turned on the candles.
It just wasn't any fun to play in there...and let's face it, decorating is my jam.
So, it shouldn't surprise anyone when I say that the wallpaper was a fun experiment, but I LOVE the way the room looks without it.
It just feels right.
It's a calm space. It's a clean palette and I now have room where I can add a variety of accessories.
Swap them out. Change the look.
Decorate for the holidays and each season.
And just have fun.
Of course, I'm not rushing into anything. I love a truly collected look...one where a room naturally evolves and it takes time to do that authentically.
It's slow go, but I have started fluffing and feathering.
For example, I've been in love with this darling fabric lampshade for years.
Fabric Lamp Shade In Green |
I've wanted to add one to this room from the day I decided to make it over.
Unfortunately, it didn't look right against the wallpaper. Too busy and the beautiful pattern would never have received the attention it deserved.
However, once those delicious green walls were exposed, I checked for sales and free shipping every day and grabbed one.
Now it's a focal point.
A warm and charming accent that defines the vibe I've been going for all along.
It's perfect.
So much so that UPS is going to deliver a red one to me any minute now...
Red Patterned Lamp Shade |
I could say the same about the gold or wood mirrors.
My stomach just liked this scrolled one better.
Yes, we had to take it apart to clean it up and paint it, but it was so worth it.
I also ordered a few new pillow covers.
Rose Pillow Cover//Four Corner Floral Pillow Cover |
Aren't they pretty?
They totally pop, in my garden themed, cottage style family room.
And they make me smile.
Floral Pillow Covers |
They tie in that new red rug and add some well placed flowers back into the space.
Flowers I can swap out with ease.
That I love looking at.
And ones that my gut wholeheartedly approves.
Finally.
Well, for now anyway.
😉
Have you added any new accents lately?
Happy Decorating, Friends!
The room has come together beautifully. And you are so right about the green walls being the perfect backdrop for you to add all the pretty decor. The rug is very subtle with just the right amount of red. Have fun decorating Kim. This is now a great room to play with.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Mary. It really is a very comfortable and pleasing room now. I feel much more comfortable in it and love the fact that I can get really creative with different patterned drapes and pillows, artwork and accessories. I guess I'm just a paint girl!
DeleteThat wall color is gorgeous! I'm impressed that you had the courage to realize the beautiful wall paper just wasn't right. That could not have been an easy decision to make. But the results confirm it was the right one. It all looks cozy, warm and inviting and I can't wait to see more photos! I love your coffee table; I've always loved that 'white chunky legs wood top' look. It's perfect in your family room.
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Hi Kristine!! Thank you!! Yes, taking the wallpaper down was a big decision. I have to say I thought about it for a long time, but just kept pushing the idea aside, thinking that one day I'd figure it all out. Plus, I always wanted wallpaper and we took the time to put it up...but now that's gone, I know I made the right decision. I don't miss it at all. I'm glad you love the coffee table too, I just painted those legs. It was yet another attempt to make the wallpaper work. ☺️
DeleteAs always, and as with everything you do, the room looks wonderful! I love the shade! I may have to see if it will fit the lamps I have that need new shades!
ReplyDeletePat, you are the sweetest! Thanks so much. I have to say, I love, love, love the shades. I thought about making one of my own, but the pattern and colors were perfect, so I splurged. They come in three sizes. I bought the smallest ones, and they fit my lamps well. The other two are larger shades which are too big for my tiny cottage. You'll have to keep me posted!
DeleteKim, I love the lampshade. I wondered if you would order the red one. Both are perfect for the room. I'm happy that you're in love with your room.
ReplyDeleteThank you Cindy! It's funny, red really should've been first, or at least at the same time. I ended up having to wait a few weeks to order again, waiting for another sale!! Heehee!!
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