Showing posts with label upcycle. Show all posts
Showing posts with label upcycle. Show all posts

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Pull up a seat

Photo from LuckBoySunday


Love this!
Mixing different types of chairs adds yet another visual element to an otherwise uniform table. You can instantly make a formal table feel cozy and comforting. 
 
(The Rules.)
 
The rules are this... there are no rules. Mix different types of wood, add in a metal chair, or a cushioned chair - whatever you like. New and old. This is an easy way to tie in accent colors or add a pop of color. By making your own rules when it comes to designing your space, you will create something truly unique and your personality will shine through.
(Start Shopping.)
 
Once you start looking for chairs, you'll be surprised where they turn up. First, scour your home, garage and basement. You can easily paint or refinish old chairs. I prefer to try to up-cycle existing chairs instead of buying new ones. Find chairs is by shopping garage sales, estate sales, vintage shops, home decorating stores and even Craigslist. You don't have to pay much, just make sure the chair is sturdy, comfortable and has good bones (or a good design).
 
(Incorporating the Idea.) 
 
The type of design element is usually implemented in an eat-in kitchen, however there are many other places around your home to use mix-matched chairs. Here are a few favorites:
  • Dining Room: Utilizing mix-matched chairs in the dining room is an easy change to a formal dining room, creating a warm atmosphere. This could be done in a formal living room also Try adding chairs with similar design elements. Keep within the same color scheme, finish,  or structural elements.
  • Family Room: One way to encourage family bonding is to play games together. Set up a game area in a family room by using mix-matched chairs around a round table. Take the idea one step further. Let the children pick out their game chair. Incorporate the boxed games as artwork on  shelving to create a  game. Keep the games in sight  to encourage spontaneous play!
  • Hallway/Mudroom: This is a fun idea! In a long hallway or large entry way, line the wall with mix-matched chairs. Add mix-matched frames above the chairs to help support the theme. This wall of chairs will make a dramatic impact on visitors when they walk inside your house. Its original and makes a memorable impression.
 
Most importantly, design should be fun. So, have fun! If one chair doesn't work, simply switch it out. Play with the arrangement until you are happy with it!
 
 

[ Kismet Junk ]

 
 

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Don't Junk that Trunk




Decorating with trunks is a hot trend. Since the later part of the 18th century, trunks  have been popular. Remember grandma having one for storage at the foot of the bed? However, trunks are making a huge comeback and are reappearing in all rooms throughout the house, especially vintage trunks. They offer a touch of history, unique charm, and even promise the hope of travel.

Trunks serve as a nice way to bring a touch of history into a modern living room. Use an old trunk as a coffee table. Flipping a trunk on end transforms the trunk into a pedestal. When on its side, a lamp can be placed on the trunk to add reading light  behind a chair. It can also make a pedestal to hold for plants or a shelf for mail and keys by the front door.
 
(That junk inside your trunk.)
 
These pieces of furniture can be useful in almost any room: a family room to store board games; a kitchen to baking supplies; in the playroom  to hide the kids toys; or even the bathroom. Think of how many towels you could fit inside a trunk. Regardless of which room you decide to utilize a trunk, they serve as a wonderful storage unit.

If you are one of the lucky few to still have your great grandmothers hope chest collecting dust in the attic, make the rest of us jealous  and  bring it down from the attic. Clean it up and put it on display for the rest of the world to admire.

(Its Kismet how junk appears when you want it.) 
 
Many antique and vintage stores sell trunks. If there isn't one in stock, talk to the store manager know. There may be one in storage. Check Craigslist, Estate Sales and Auctions for vintage trunks.  Try a Facebook post to family and friends. Finding a trunk could be easier than imagined.