Great Crate

Crates Rocks. Personally, I believe one can never have too many storage options. Crates are perfect for blankets, books, towels, shoes, basketballs... the list goes on. I have never met a crate I didn't like! Here are some groovy crates I have spotted online with some inspiring new ideas for uses.



I am not a fan of painting crates, but WOW!
This crate painted chippy red is awesome.
It adds a great accent to a muted palette room.



This would look great next to a bed or on a nightstand.



My husband just bought me this giant crate.
 I am in love! (He rocks too!)
Search for advertising is as cool as the crate.



How adorable would this be on in a powder room?
I love the fresh flowers!
Also, add an apothecary jar of cotton balls or guest soaps.

Speaking of powder rooms...
If you don't have enough storage, why not store towels in crates.
I may utilize this idea in my gray themed bathroom.



Anyone else now on a search for a crate that will hold a wine bottle?
I am! (Anyone else thirsty?)



Storage is always needed in a child's bedroom.
This is simply fantastic how the insides of the crates are brightly painted.
It seems they left the outside natural - perfection!

Wouldn't this be a sweet wedding shower gift?
 I love gifts wrapped in baskets or industrial crates.
Its a gift that keeps on giving!

Where to start? No one person should hoard this many soda crates.
I request, please share your crate collection with the rest of the world!
I love the addition of giant letters in any situation!



Casters added to the bottom of this crate shelf is sheer genius.
This is ideal for small spaces and situations where the shelf would need to be moved.
Consider making a rolling mini bar our of old crates.



Feel as if you live inside a Crate and Barrel store!
This would be a cool display inside a front door, especially if you don't have a coat closet.
Add some hooks on the wall, and the crates could be used for shoes, hats and mail.
Be sure to add a few decorative pieces for it doesn't look like a junk pile.
 

My books made me add this photo. They are requesting that they would like to live in crates.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with this photo. (I love books!)
I feel the books actually come to life against the natural backdrop of crates.

So, do you agree? Crates are great! Kismet Junk will have an abundance of crates for sale this Saturday at the 3 French Hens Market. Stop by an pick up one great crate or two! How are you going to utilize your crates?

Mixing Styles

Decorating is all about style | Most people have an distinct opinion when it comes to decorating. There are certain styles they like and don't like. However, decorating is about allowing your individual sense of style to shine. What you choose to surround yourself with should be a direct reflection of who you are. This is the very reason decorating is so much fun. There are no wrong answers.

Like many people, I think the French Country style of decorating is romantic and whimsical. Its very popular right now. However, I live with my husband, our four active children, a dog and a turtle. Needless to say, a style based on the use of whites doesn't mesh with our family of muddy shoes, pets and soccer balls. Also, I love anything industrial and  have a soft spot for 1970's vintage artifacts. My solution, find elements in the each style that inspire me, yet are practical for my family, and work it together to create one cohesive statement.

 

The way you chose to decorate your home should be a reflection of the way you live, not just what it the hottest trend.  On our front porch we have an set of gold gray metal gym lockers. They serve as an interesting focal point, yet are very functional, serving as a catch-all for balls, shoes and book bags. Next to the lockers sits a wicker chair. Believe it or not, the soft wicker warms up the cold tone of the lockers.  Its a combination of industrial meets cottage chic, and I adore both pieces. Design doesn't have to fall into one specific style. Mixing and matching styles, textures and colors adds depth and transforms a room into an interesting reflection of the people who live within its walls.

 

These photos illustrate how to incorporate different styles, making a wonderful statement. So, whats your style??