Transformation Tuesday-Cabinet Stencil Reveal

Stenciling-The Ultimate Solution

A few weeks ago we worked on refacing our kitchen cabinets with the leftover bead board from the ceiling project.  Although there is still more work to be done on the lower cabinets, the uppers are done!  After giving the cabinets a fresh coat of Benjamin Moore Simply White OC 117 inside and out, I decided that that the interior of the glass front cabinets needed a little something to enhance the white dishes I collect.  After considering many different options like wall paper, fabric and paint, all of which didn't give me the color selection I needed, I decided that to get the right color, I needed to paint my own pattern. Stencils are a perfect solution because you can select the paint color you want. 

I was looking for a soft pattern and color that would not be too busy with all the other elements in the room.   I selected a small arabesque pattern that has a fresh contemporary look. After trying an earthy green color that I have in the tile backsplash, I decided it was a little too much color and too much contrast.

the wall color, Carrington Beige, seamed to be the right choice. 

The great part about stencils and paint is that if you don't like the result simply paint over it and try something else!

I am happy with the result, and as my hubby says

" if you're happy, I'm happy!"

The soft paint color highlights the dished nicely without overpowering the dish displays.

Now it's on the next phase of this, "kitchen makeover on a budget, the countertops and flooring...stay tuned!

Do you have a transformation you'd like to share?  If so e-mail me photos for a feature on "Transformation Tuesday"

Until next time!

Tina!

Friday Faves-What is a Mud Room Anyway?

In the newer home plans of today the "mud room" is an essential part of the overall layout of the house.

Especially here in the New England states where the snow flies and the rain comes down in buckets at  a moments notice!  In home plans of years ago it was often times called the utility room or back hall, a place where the family could remove dirty shoes, hang coats and hats after coming in from chores.  It was simply a dumping ground for stuff you didn't want to track into the house and usually not seen by visitors to the house! Todays mud rooms however are designed to be a functional, well appointed and beautiful to be in.  

The rooms are often combined to incorporate the laundry and pet grooming stations as well as a powder room.  Some even include office and play areas. This a perfect space to try out some bold color schemes or fabric patterns that you would otherwise not use in the main parts of the home.

Some key elements to a well planned space are:

• Durable flooring materials
• Ample lighting
• functional storage
• windows
• comfortable seating
• proper electrical and plumbing fixtures, if needed

  So weather it's a back entry, front hall or entire room, devoted to handle it all, I believe that function can and must be stylish too, so a well planned space, including all the necessary elements of your lifestyle, is a must if planning one for your new or existing home.  

Here are a few of my favorite spaces that are functional and beautifully designed.

This area has a built-in window seat for extra storage and serves as a comfy place to sit!

I hope you've gotten some great inspiration for your next project here!  If you want to see more and sources for all photos check out my Pinterest board for information.

Until next time!

Tina

Friday Favorites-Summer Fun In The Sun

What sort of images do you conjure up in your mind when you think of summer?  For me it's the warm sunshine, flowers in the garden, cold drinks and cool summer fruit, soft breezes and of course…the beach!

Happy Fourth of July Weekend Everyone!

Until next time!

Tina

Favorite Finds In The Northwest Corner-Must Visit Antiques,Thrift And Collectable Shops

On the way home from a client meeting this fine Friday afternoon I decided to stop by a few places I've passed many times while driving up route 7 in the Northwestern part of Connecticut. As much as I like being out shopping with friends, there is nothing like  poking around by yourself with no place to be and no time restrictions!

Hepatica: A herbaceous perennial in the Buttercup family

This seams to be a fitting name for the quaint shop I've passed many times just north of New Milford in Gaylordsville.  The wicker furniture and pretty flower garden caught my eye as I drove by and I made a mental note to come back this way for a closer look.  With two rooms chock full of vintage fabulous, this small shop has something for every collector and budget!

The next stop is a salvaged barn that dates back to the 1800s and was moved to this location in the 70s.

The interior post a beam construction takes you back in time.  The place has been home to many establishments over the years including a restaurant.  The entrance planters and garden beckons you into the present two story shop that is full of new and vintage early American and folk art finds.  The space is open and airy so you can see everything with ease.  

My third stop, at Carters Trading post, is a multi vendor establishment that is a potpourri of antique and original art as well as wood carved sculptures.  If you so desire, you can take home Sasquatch or an Indian carving! And yes, take notice of where they placed the price tag!  There is something for everyone, from the bizzare to the refined collector.  Be sure to visit the back yard space… don't fret… buy from Brett…you won't regret!

Here's my take homes from the treasure hunt today. A few small, but simply perfect items to add to my collection!

Have you been to any of these places or have a favorite place you've found…?  Tell me about it. I'd love to hear.

Until next time!

Tina