So here we are… 2019 has come to a close and 2020 is here.
2019 marks many experiences, changes and accomplishments for our team’s personal and professional lives. Together we finished the year feeling confident, satisfied, accomplished, grateful and blessed. Yes, we work hard to serve our clients and nurture our business, but we also feed and water our personal lives and relationships. Keeping our tanks full is essential for each of us. We all work hard to maintain work and home balance. As challenging as it may be, we are all determined to keep all balls in the air!
2019 had plenty of scene stealing headlines but we cannot let them over shadow our own contributions to story telling!
Granted, history was made when President Trump became our nations 3rd president to be impeached, yes, this is a big deal. We get it… and yes, the college admissions scandal was a pretty big deal, but we made our own newsworthy articles ourselves!
LL&A Headlines, Read All About It!
A year of planning…
Did you think Justin and Hailey were the only couple to tie the knot this year? Well, our very own Sarah and Matt put a ring on it and strolled down the aisle in October too!
A year of anticipation…
Duchess Megan and Prince Harry are not the only ones to have had a baby boy, Lauren and Cody are expecting their very own bundle of joy in May of 2020.
A year of change…
Leslie’s “25 year old bundle of joy” son, Murphy landed his dream job in South Florida which has made for several fun trips to the Sunshine State getting him settled in with many more trips to come!
A year for learning something new…
Playing nurse was never a game Tammy was particularly good at as a little girl, but this year proved to be her year to learn. Luckily, she picked it up quickly and helped nurse two parents back to health.
A year of balance…
Dawn continues to balance her life here in Southern Indiana with her world in Fort Wayne where her two daughters, two son-in-laws and six grandchildren live.
A year of growth…
This was a year of growth for Whitley. Julia Roberts certainly has nothing on our adventurous girl. On a solo trip to Cabo to celebrate her 30 years of life, she ate and prayed the whole week long! Cheers to spiritual growth!
Together we each closed the year having planned, anticipated, changed, learned and balanced many aspects of our lives. Some things turned out as planned – others maybe not. Some changes we welcomed – others more unexpected. Lessons we learned were blessings and changes will always be just as the seasons change.
Faith and love is the key to the LL&A team… time to unlock the door to 2020!!
Each of us at LL&A have others for whom we look up to and admire for various reasons. Whether it be a favorite musician, artist, author, entrepreneur, we all find our connections and admirations through a variety of outlets.
Carole King, once brilliantly wrote,
“I write heavily under the influence of James Taylor”.
We too have been inspired throughout our careers by an assortment of individuals who have helped shape our paths in the design industry. Both past and present, these talented trailblazers sculpted their passion for design that is as relevant today as it was in years gone by.
We invite you to share in their stories to understand how their contribution to design has chartered our philosophies, aesthetics and business awareness.
Past and present – you will certainly begin to connect the variety of influencers to each of us as individuals.
Jean-Michel Frank – Decorator & Designer. Whitley’s Design Influencer.
Artists take inspiration from the world around them, and it’s hard to imagine a richer environment than Paris in the 1930s, when Jean-Michel Frank was the most celebrated decorator and designer of the era. Frank has always been an interior designer that Whitley’s admired most.
His aesthetic has been described as “modern and minimalistic” featuring subdued, neutral textures and clean lines. An advocate for combining different styles, Frank brought together both old and new to create spaces full of texture and character. He also enjoyed incorporating other artists’ works or designs into his rooms. Whitley’s always loved his use of unexpected materials together such as leather, wicker, and forged iron – allowing for a space that’s both chic and masculine.
Frank’s rooms were often “devoid of the unnecessary”, which is also reflective of Whitley’s own personal taste in design. Accessories were always kept to a minimum, allowing the furniture and overall design to speak for itself. Frank might be most well-known for his creation of the Parsons Table, which to this day remains one of the most classic furniture pieces in modern design.
Jean Stoffer – Interior Designer & Sarah’s Design Crush.
Sarah started following Jean Stoffer on Instagram a year ago and fell in love with her aesthetic. Whenever scrolling through her feed, Sarah will see one of Stoffer’s kitchens or baths and instantly recognizes her style.
Stoffer effortlessly combines a traditional look with a modern edge and each of her spaces are cozy and inviting. Drawn to the simplicity of Stoffer’s work, Sarah finds inspiration in her design elements. Design with a clean line, earth tones, and greenery is Sarah’s signature look and she swoons over Stoffer’s use of woods, metals, and the details she puts into the architectural elements in each space. She is a must follow!
There are a lot of interior designers that have preceded us all that are a big influence on Lauren’s design thought process and the specific branches of the design field, but none more important than Mrs. Dorothy Draper. She was one of the original interior designers and #girlboss icons.
Not only one of the first to professionalize the field of interior design, but also one of the first women in the early 1920’s to start her own company. Breaking boundaries, Draper loved bringing her touch of unusual contrasting, vibrant color combinations and her own personal “modern baroque” style. She created interesting public spaces including hotels, casinos, theaters, department stores, private corporate offices and jet interiors that everyone could enjoy. The Joanna Gaines of her time, being a #girlboss and top interior designer in not only New York, but also across the USA, Draper broadened her entrepreneurial resume by creating her own furniture line for Schumacher and had her own column in Good Housekeeping Magazine. Not your typical housewife, Dorothy Draper is an inspiration and taught Lauren that women in the interior design business can be innovative, creative, and think outside the box.
Frank Lloyd Wright – American Architect, Interior Designer, Educator & Curator. An icon of Tammy’s.
A rebel pioneer of the architectural world, Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic career stemmed almost 70 years. He remained passionate for his craft much like Tammy has for over 30 years. His dedication and talent was always ever changing and adapting. Wright was a forerunner in his field that, in Tammy’s opinion, changed the way people live within their own homes. Incorporating “family rooms” within his plans and utilizing modern technology and materials of the period.
Tammy’s favorite residential structure design by Wright is the famous Fallingwater in Pennsylvania. She loves the way the structure fits effortlessly into its environment. Seemingly undisturbing to the surroundings showcasing nature and nest at its best for human inhabitants.
Favorite Wright quote: “Form follows Function”.
That has been misunderstood, form and function should be one,
joined in a spiritual union.
Recognized as being in part, one of the creators of the Prairie Style derived from the Arts and Crafts movement. This style is most seen throughout the midwestern states – all influenced by natural materials. Tammy has always been inspired by nature and the environment in her own design work and believes the window can be the most essential part of any room. More importantly, it’s what is outside the window that counts and how the surroundings are integrated within the home.
Ralph Lauren – American Fashion Designer, Philanthropist, Business Executive. Leslie’s Timeless Favorite.
In 1983, in the days before major fashion houses had furnishing lines, designer Ralph Lauren launched his first home collection. It expanded his vision of a thoughtful stylish life where he applied his style to how he would want to live. Whether it be upscale penthouse, english, western, coastal – it was always all American.
Each interior has its own distinct style, its own vision of the good life and each tells a different, but complementary story. When asked what links an interior all together, he says, “It’s in the eye, the taste, and the spirit of the dream.”
Leslie began her career in 1985, just as Ralph Lauren was making his way into interiors. He has been someone that Leslie has admired, respected and can always identify with and has grown with as well!
A true representation of the American dream – tasteful and timeless style!
What is it to influence: A person who inspires or guides the actions of others.
The landscape of Interior Design is always on the move. With its many nuances, our industry offers a variety of platforms to achieve the needs of any consumer.
LL&A is proud to announce our Online Design Assistance.
We allow you the leverage to seek premium interior design services by one of our professional designers without ever leaving your home. Our program has been built to serve the needs of the most discriminating consumer in a proficient and economical manner. Equipped with talented designers and technology, we conveniently create spaces designed specifically for you, on budget and on time. The products chosen will be sourced from the world wide web and ready for you to order at your leisure in the privacy of your own home.
Our process is simple.
Complete a brief online questionnaire so we can get to know you.
Send us digital photos of your space along with the dimensions and any pieces you own and wish to incorporate into your room.
Select a style genre that speaks to you from the library of photos we will share with you.
LL&A will send you a digital box complete with a visual concept, space plate and 3D image of what you can expect your room to look like.
Space plate for furniture placement.
LL&A Virtual Rendering
LL&A Virtual Rendering
Once approved, expect a specification sheet complete with details of paints, floor coverings, wall treatments, artwork, lamps, accessories and all items needed to complete the installation along with instructions.
Receive your Shopping List and order your products to complete your room styling.
Final Product
Final Product
The process is quick, easy, online, and budget friendly.
As working women, we are all a combination of strong, independent, talented and resourceful achievers. Our personalities all vary which create the melting pot within our work family. Each of us have our own interests and outlets which we thought would be fun to share in this month’s blog. From recipes to rest – check us out and enjoy!
Leslie:
In order for me to do what I love and do my very best work – I must be my very best self and also the very best wife, mother, daughter, friend, co-worker and tribe member! Steps for me to be my very best self start with these little things that make a big impact on my daily life.
Give thanks and begin every morning with a simple, thankful prayer and a great cup of coffee. Believe in the miracles that are presented to me each and every day. My new favorite acronym is GDT – “God Did That”.
Let go of expectations. Not much surprises me anymore and I just try to smile and roll with it! See the opportunities that are presented to me each and every day as a new way to stretch, grow and learn.
Disconnect and get outside. I love to run, ride my bike or catch an exercise class. Physical fitness always makes me feel better afterwards.
Finally, I love getting home, putting on my comfy clothes and giving thanks for a full day while enjoying my wine! My new favorite toast is “Thanks Be to God!”
And So It Is!
Tammy:
Yoga is my ticket to a healthy me.
Practicing yoga is an essential part of my life. It takes the focus off of life’s daily challenges, routines, commitments and overall “noise” that the day can present. Yoga supplies me with time to myself to be quiet and thankful for all things and people that surround me. It allows me to go somewhere else in my mind and focus on myself, unplug and put myself to rest.
Some days it may be a simple 10 minute stretch before I start my day with a few cat/cow, forward bends and downward dog. Another day may be a little more intense with 30 minutes on my mat. But my favorite time spent are the classes I attend at Heat Yoga. I am blessed with two great friends who are yoga instructors who have taught me the tools and techniques to experience the most from my practices. I can turn up my time with a Bikram flow or dial it down with restorative – whatever my body and mind need. I customize it for myself. I especially enjoy hot yoga and love a good healthy sweat. It feels like I have been cleansed from the inside out and walk away feeling calm and detoxed. Yoga works for me, after 10 years I am not an expert by any means, but in my world I feel confidant in my skills and feel stronger after each practice.
Namaste.
Dawn:
Staying organized is the key to my sanity.
If something comes in, something must go out!With clothes it’s easy to get overwhelmed quickly, so whenever I purchase something, I look at my closet and get rid of something.I use the “one-year” rule. Anything that hasn’t been used or worn within a one-year period is fair game!By doing this I’m able to keep my wardrobe manageable and my closet space needs to a minimum.
Go to the grocery store armed with a menu and a list!I spend a little more time at home to look for the items needed to prepare the menu meals, but I save time and money at the store. Meal Prep!I don’t mind leftovers so I will prepare one or two meals over the weekend and use them the following week as a main meal or a portion of my main meal.I try to keep a cut up salad or cut up veggies on hand to use as well since cutting veggies is time consuming and during the week I don’t have a lot of time to cook.This helps me eat healthier foods and stay away from the “quick meals” that can be very tempting, but unhealthy, when I’m tired and don’t feel like making dinner.
Whitley:
I’m a bargain shopper through and through. Clothing, furniture, home accessories and everything in between. I VERY rarely pay full price for anything – call me cheap, but I prefer resourceful! In addition to bargain shopping, I’m also a looker. I love to browse and wander aimlessly through stores (in hopes of coming across a great deal, of course).
Here are a few of my favorite spots to get lost.
*note: I’m a firm believer that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. I have a slight obsession with thrift/antique stores. Walking through these stores is like exploring a magical treasure trove. You never know what you’ll find!
Furniture & Home Accessories
Mellwood Antique Mall – If you’re local to the area and love thrift shopping, this is a must! Booth after booth and room after room, they have it all. Clothing, home accessories, furniture, jewelry – you name it!
Joe Ley Antiques – Again, another local must! Quirky and so much to see. I love the history behind old/vintage items and they have so many unique finds!
Peddler’s Mall – Commonly referred to as a “flea-tique”, some junk and some gold. That’s the thrill of the hunt!
Habitat ReStores – ReStores offer both new and used items. Profits from Habitat ReStores are used both in your local community and around the world, so a win-win all around.
HomeGoods – This one shouldn’t need an introduction. A good place to rummage for deals if you’re weary of secondhand!
I also love attending local arts and craft fairs. Check out Fleur de Flea or The Flea Off Market!
Clothing
Thrift stores – Louisville has A TON of cool thrift stores. Think more “boutique” setting and less Goodwill (although Goodwill can be a great option too!).
TJ Maxx – Many of my clothes come from here. Discount retailer with both boutique/designer brands.
Nordstrom Rack – I worked for Nordstrom for several years so this will forever be a favorite of mine. A vast majority of the merchandise here is from Nordstrom (AKA designer looks at a fraction of the original cost!). I almost always buy my designer shoes and handbags from here. Great prices/great quality on clothing and accessories!
If you feel up to the challenge, check out some of these spots!
Sarah:
Makeup Mania! I’m such a “when you look good, you feel good” kind of girl which is probably why I am such a makeup guru! I love cosmetics and skincare products.Yes, I am confidant in my own skin, but appreciate products that enhance my features, skin and complexion.
I love experimenting with new products, techniques and looks, but of course have my favorites that I cannot live without.
I love Smashbox’s Studio Skin foundation. It’s a full coverage foundation, has a dewy finish, is cruelty free, and doesn’t break the bank!
My next go to is Kat Von Dee’s Shade & Light Contouring kit. I have tried a variety of different bronzers and this is by far the best formula in my opinion and is the most economical.It is easy to use and the results are flawless.
My favorite products that are a little more expensive, but worth the investment are Becca’s Champagne Pop Highlighter and Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray. The Becca’s highlighter will give you a summer glow even in the dead of winter.Urban Decay’s All Nighter Setting Spray is awesome. Afteryou finish your makeup routine, mist on your face and you are good to go for the next 24 hours! This is by far my favorite and a must have.Being in our field, we are constantly on the go in the rain, snow, wind and heat, and this product will stay with you.When I am not working, you can usually find me outside with my Fiancé and dogs either boating, fishing, or camping. Needless to say that the Urban Decay setting spray is agodsend – no matter what I am doing or where I am at I’ll have a fresh look all day. #cannotlivewithoutit
Looking my best and putting in the effort makes me feel confident and the best version of myself.As women, a little polish is all it can take to bring out the best in us! #lookingpretty
Lauren:
I love to cook for family and friends.
I’m a fan of the Pioneer Woman’s recipes. They are usually easy to make and are crowd pleasers every time. I found this one to be a favorite of my husband’s, Cody.The Pig Cake. Don’t let the name fool you – it’s delicious, simple and perfect for any party or potluck!
FOR THE CAKE:
1 box (18.25 Oz. Box) Yellow Cake Mix
1 stick Margarine, Softened
1 can (14 Oz. Can) Mandarin Oranges, Drained, 1/2 Cup Juice Reserved
4 whole Eggs
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
FOR THE TOPPING:
1 package (4 Oz. Box) Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix
1 can (20 Oz. Can) Crushed Pineapple, Juice Reserved
1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
4 ounces, fluid Frozen Whipped Topping (such As Cool Whip)
Extra Mandarin Orange Slices, For Garnish
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. For the cake, combine cake mix, margarine, 1/2 cup juice from the mandarin oranges, eggs, and vanilla. Beat for four minutes on medium-high. Add drained oranges and beat again until pieces are broken up and small. Pour batter into greased and floured 9 x 13 inch baking pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely. Once cake is cool, blend juice from drained pineapples with the vanilla pudding mix. Add powdered sugar and mix, then mix in whipped topping. Stir in drained pineapple. Spread on cooled cake and refrigerate several hours. To serve, cut cake into squares and top each square with a mandarin orange slice and a smile!
We hope you enjoyed a peek into our fun-filled world.
When the time comes to consider what window covering products are best suited for your needs, the process may be overwhelming.
Determining what your individual needs are is the best place to start, whether it be privacy, light control, or simply decorative purposes. Manufacturers are offering a variety of products in fabric, woven horizontal and vertical shading systems, metal and wooden blinds, and motorized options.
Woven roman shades offer a simple privacy solution with added texture.Horizontal screens provide subtle privacy and sunlight control to this conference room as well as versatility to raise and lower.2” metal blinds are perfect for high traffic spaces. They offer durability and versatility with no interference to overall design concept.
Consider the rooms purpose.
We will educate you on each product and their suitability. With so many choices, each offering their own benefits, we can align you with the proper products and finished look.
Solar shades offer the perfect understated solution to this space. Motorized to raise and lower to meet the demands of the sun, yet subtle to compliment the wood walls and beams.2” wood blinds were the perfect solution for these elegant wood paneled walls.
It’s all in the details.
Fabric, trim and hardware build the perfect soft treatment by adding pattern, color or texture. This combination of silver metallic wooden poles, crystal finials, beaded trim, button detail, tiebacks and lush fabric produced a stunning custom window treatment scheme in this formal master bedroom.
The combination of silver metallic wooden poles, crystal finials, beaded trim, button detail, tiebacks and lush fabric produced this stunning custom window treatment scheme in this formal master bedroom.
A splash of color, pattern or texture on any window will add flavor to your room. Window treatments are like that perfect piece of jewelry to a favorite outfit, a room is just not complete without them.
Combine a sheer with a pop of color and bold stripe.Soft subtle texture.We love the way these smocked jute panels frame this sweet reading space.Asymmetrical draperies with custom bedding components.
We are proud to offer an extensive fabric library to customize drapery panels, valances, pillows and bedding. Let one of our professional designers put together a look tailored specifically for you!
$250.00 window treatment consultation is rebatabletowards purchases of $500.00 or more. Professional installations are provided.
Just as we expected, 2019 started off in a rush and we would not expect anything less!
With the Holiday season behind us, we are now busy planning for 2019. Blessed with the many wonderful projects we currently have and the ones on the horizon, we are constantly in search of new ideas, systems, products and logistics that will enable us to grow and mature our business.
Leslie and Tammy recently attended the Atlanta International Gift and Home Furnishings Market and discovered several new finds they are bringing back to Jeffersonville!
Check out what is coming soon to The Shop!
Bloomr
Fine, sophisticated, tasteful and elegant faux florals & stems that are all designed and created by professional florists. A space without flowers or plants is an empty space, let them breathe air into your home or office.
Fine, Sophisticated, Tasteful and Elegant
Fine, Sophisticated, Tasteful and Elegant
Fine, Sophisticated, Tasteful and Elegant
Fine, Sophisticated, Tasteful and Elegant
Fine, Sophisticated, Tasteful and Elegant
Fine, Sophisticated, Tasteful and Elegant
Studio Penny Lane
For those of us that always pick that penny up off the sidewalk…
Studio Penny Lane was created to bring awareness to and inspire a daily practice of gratitude and cultivate mindfulness in the world. One penny at a time.
Studio Penny Lane
Studio Penny Lane
Studio Penny Lane
Studio Penny Lane
Canoe Custom Made Jewelry & Handbags
Hand crafted in Blue Ridge, Georgia, their unique collection of jewelry and bags effortlessly combine rustic charm with contemporary sophistication. We loved the combination of fine leather, hides and chain bags with their unique wood, stone and hide jewelry.
True South Puzzles
Who doesn’t love a great jigsaw puzzle? They’re great for solo therapy sessions or family night with some pizza and a movie! We were thrilled to find these terrific puzzles created by artists focusing on our treasured national parks, scenic routes across the south, southern cities & states and most of all… our sweet animal friends! Once assembled, frame them up and hang on display!
True South Puzzles
True South Puzzles
True South Puzzles
Watch for more details on these products and many more once they arrive at The Shop!
#cheerstonewproducts
Think Tank
One of our favorite days of the year is in January! Our annual Think Tank meeting offers a day of yearly preparation for the ladies of LL&A. We celebrate our successes & accomplishments from 2018 and plan for 2019. Keeping on top of our industry, staying involved in our community, and growing our business does not just happen, we make it happen!! We are certain to end the day of planning recharged & ignited with bright ideas & policies to serve our clients needs & expectations!
As 2018 comes to a close, we have so many great experiences and memories to reflect upon. Like many of you, whether it be personal or professional, our successes are measured by relationships we have encountered, prosperity, commitments, appreciation, health, faith and dedication.
Taking the M out of “Me” and making it a “We”! We are dedicated to our profession, valued clients, families, friends and all the ones we love, (including our “fur children”).
We are committed to providing a service that results in exquisite work and home environments.
We are prosperous in creativity, our work facility, supportive colleagues and most of all a happy work place!
We are healthy and grateful.
We have faith that there is always a solution, always another day and we will always figure it out.
We appreciate all that has been given to us in 2018.
Thanks to all that have supported us this year, our clients, suppliers, sub contractors, builders, vendor representatives, neighbors and community.
Looking back on 2018, our team is grateful and each of us want to share a thought for the year end.
“I’m thankful for our hearts that can love, our hands that can help and our minds that can imagine great things!” – Leslie
“Watching the changing seasons of life surrounding me within the people I love has been exciting to see. I am grateful for our health, the love and the peace within our lives – cannot wait to see what 2019 has in store!” – Tammy
“For me, 2018 was a year to be grateful.I am so appreciative to have a wonderful support network of family and friends!Having worked in many different environments, I am so grateful to have a positive, peaceful, professional, and happy group of ladies to work with every day!” – Dawn
“At the end of this year, I am thankful that my blessings are bigger than my problems! I am grateful for the support from my amazing husband, family and friends who keep me grounded and remind me what is really important in life when I get too busy to remember myself.” – Lauren
“For me, 2018 has been a year of many milestones, personally and professionally. I have proven so many things to myself and hit a lot of the goals I set for myself this year. I couldn’t have done it without the wonderful and inspiring people I surround myself with everyday.” – Sarah
“As 2018 comes to a close, I’m most thankful for the opportunity to work alongside such strong, intelligent women here at LL&A. It’s truly been rewarding to have their daily guidance and support.” – Whitley
“I am so grateful for the opportunity to intern at LL&A! I learned skills I never thought were needed in the interior design field, such as building chairs and shelves and using power tools. My mom would be proud, and maybe a little scared that I am left alone with power tools!” – Rachel
We are 7 strong and proud – ready for 2019! Ready or not, here we come!
If you’re like us, you still you have holiday shopping to do! Don’t worry…We’ve got you covered! We are offering 30% off storewide to our valued clients!
When: Monday, December 10 – 24, 2018
Hours: Monday-Friday, 10am – 6pm and Saturdays from 11am – 2pm
Christmas Eve: 10am – Noon
Stop by The Shop at LL&A and check out our newest additions of fashionable scarfs, jewelry, holiday giftware, scents, artwork, lamps and accessories! There are so many fun gifts to choose from and we’re here to help if you need assistance in finding that perfect gift.
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Plus we’ll have it wrapped beautifully and ready to go to make the shopping experience quick, fun and convenient!
Can’t decide? Give a Gift Card!
We are offering the perfect gift for the person who has everything! Interior design consultations are perfect for that hard (or easy) to buy for person in your life that seems to have everything. Let one of our trusted professional interior designers help guide and assist your friend, family member, or loved one in achieving the home or room of their dreams! Holiday Consultation Special: $225.00! Contact us at 812-282-6606.
Cheers to shopping local and shopping small this happy holiday season!
Happy Holidays and see you at the 30% off extravaganza!
Let LL&A create a perfect, personalized, festive holiday atmosphere for your home or office!
With the Holidays only a few weeks away, it’s time to start preparing for all the festivities, celebrations and parties.
With all the hustle and bustle approaching, let LL&A Interior Design assist you with “Decking Your Halls” while you enjoy the upcoming season with family and friends. Whether it be your home or office, we all enjoy festive surroundings to share with the ones around us.
We believe bookshelves are the window into our family life and tell the story of who we are. Many of us have either built in bookshelves, wall shelves, or furniture pieces with shelving and have a difficult time accessorizing them in an effective way.Showcasing our collections of treasures, family photos and books can be a tricky task and end up looking like an afterthought instead of a prized feature of a room.
Let us share with you a few helpful tools to turn your wall of shelves into a wall of storytelling…
Edit
Edit out all items that no longer serve a purpose or speak to you.Remove old greeneries, tiny objects, and tired outdated pieces.
Scale
Our rule of thumb is nothing smaller than a cantaloupe belongs on a shelf.Combining large scale accessories with frames, books and treasured collections will provide a clean tidy appearance and also highlight features items.
Color palette
In order to achieve a cohesive easy “read”, select an accent color and stick to one.From there, add a greenery source to give an organic element and texture, then photos, books and accessories.For example, if you want a fresh beach look, try blue accessories combined with brown books and wooden photo frames – clean, easy and fresh!If you prefer a monochromatic look, maintain a greenery source to let the accessories breathe.
Your accessories will tie your entire look together.
Books
Yes, bookshelves deserve BOOKS! Even if you are not a reader, add books!Local libraries have book sales at least two times a month and is great fun collecting sets and color combinations.Remember, paperbacks do not count, only hardbacks (no cheating). Measure your shelves and buy more than what you think you need. Trust us, the shelves will eat books up! Select a color scheme and buy books within that range.Consider blacks and grays or browns and tan. You may even like blues if that is your look – go for it!If you own an assortment of mismatched books already – no problem, turn them around and show the page side! TaDa!
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Family photos
Bring it on! Here is your chance to create the story wall. Combine your favorites and select frames that compliment your accessories.You can choose to either use color photos, sepia or black and white. Again, all depending on the look you desire to achieve.Keep all frames simple and of similar appearance in color and texture.
Accessories
Your accessories will tie your entire look together. They should all compliment your valued treasures and collectibles that tell a story all their own.Keep accessories in one color palette with clean lines and scaled appropriately.Mixing ceramics, glass, and pottery are all terrific ways to add texture. Just keep within the same color range.Adding baskets in neutral tones that compliment your scheme adds great texture and scale.
Side tips:
White items on white book shelves do not showcase well.
Glass items will not show up unless filled with greens, spheres, nuts, rock, etc.
Move small objects onto smaller side tables or with cabinets.
Play with shapes. Less is more!
Don’t be afraid to paint your bookshelves a different color or add a textural wallcovering to the back wall.This may be the perfect addition to draw attention to your feature.
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Now take these hints and tips as you begin your own journey in creating the perfect bookshelf display! Have fun and enjoy!