YELLOW FEVER

I want to paint something!  I came across this gorgeous yellow desk that was surely a thrift find.  The paint job is superb!  They had to have used a spray paint machine.  If you recall, I'm creating a new look for my home office and I am just getty over this desk.  While, I'm pretty sure that I don't want to paint my desk yellow (I think!), I am still very inspired by the actual desk and the quality of the paint job.  Note to self, "Acquire spray paint machine".

This desk should really be in my office, but I digress.

Until tomorrow.......

D Leigh Gray

OLYMPICS INSPIRED

I personally would take any medal or better yet, all of them.  Let’s even add a fourth medal……..copper…….lol!  Get inspired by the medals of the Olympics and mix it up!  Have fun and add gold, silver, bronze, and copper mix accessories to spice it up!

Just metal crazy and soo much fun!  I have a couple of pieces I'm ready to whip out!

Until  tomorrow…….

D Leigh Gray

Click image for credit

"SUMMER CHIC" DONE RIGHT!!

Who says “Summer Chic” has to be a dress?

I live in the South and it is super hot and super humid.  Now I love maxi dresses way more than the next woman, but today I’m feeling more laid back.  A bit “French”, if I say so myself.   This is my summer chic for the weekend and I’m sticking to it.  Okay, so minus the belt.  But, with a pair of heels and dainty accessories, and fresh-faced make-up……………….now, I’m sticking to it!

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Hip, hip hooray for more chic summer shorts!

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Whew, it's safe to say, chic summer shorts done right! 

Happy Friday!

D Leigh Gray

Credit (1,  2,  3,  4,  5 )

WANNA KNOW HOW TO GET A "DESIGNER LOOK" IN YOUR LIVING SPACE?

Want more of a designer look , but you live in cookie cutter apartment or home.  Let’s discuss this issue regarding your living room/area, shall we?  If you’re wanting your space to feel more cozy, more glam, more designer then you’ll want to master the art of personalizing and layering.  Ok, so maybe not master, but become really familiar with these techniques for a more cohesive look.  A little research never hurt anybody.
If you’re renting however, you’ll really want to consult with management to be clear on the limitations of your lease.  This space is not owned by you, so the final say will not be yours. 

Personalizing items in your cookie-cutter is the first way to lose some of the starkness that come with these box type spaces.  Some of first things we did after moving into our cookie-cutter was paint the walls, change linoleum tile to ceramic tile in the kitchen and bathrooms, replace all cheap hardware, and then replace all the cheap light fixtures, inside and out. 

Now, the décor ……..so of course, you’ll start with your base layer which includes selecting the correct size furniture and its’ placement (this assuming that you have the walls painted or covered, lighting installed, and flooring that you prefer).  Next, there is selection and placement of rugs, coffee tables, end tables, sofa tables, desks, chairs, bar carts and entertainment pieces.  These first two steps are simply laying the foundation for everything else.  These placements don’t have to be final, but you will now have a clear starting point.  There will be plenty of time for editing.  Even designers, change the plan or they’ll rework things that didn’t quite play out as they had plan.  A good designer usually has a plan, so you should also.  The next layer will include window coverings, lamps, baskets, wall art, stools, and pillows.  Lastly, you want to finish the space with trays, coffee table books, décor accessories, fresh flowers or plants, and throws.  Texture variation plays an important role in layering and creating ambiance and atmosphere.  I’m not trying to get too serious here, but I do want you to be able to see how this process can benefit you or someone you know. 

With all these things comes “function”.  One can’t simply dwell on “the pretty”.  Always keep in mind how you, your family, and friends use the space.  You can store DVD’s in a wicker basket or lacquered box.  A trunk under a sofa/console table can store blankets, throws and toys.
 
With the pics below, visualize how the personalization and layering process works.

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Now, can’t you see yourself creating a chic and functional living area?  I’ll be honest, not a ton of pictures of great design with cookie-cutter homes……..sorry!

However, to expand on this topic further stay tuned for future posts such as:  Creating Fabulous Foyers, Mixing Textures, Update that cookie-cutter fireplace

Other ideas to personalize:  Add wall sconces, Replace frame less mirrors in the bathroom, Add closet systems, Move away from "matchy, matchy furniture"

Until tomorrow.......

D Leigh Gray

Credits:  1 ElleDecor  2 Firstsense  3 Houzz  4 Decoratingblog.net   5 Jan Showers

TO WRITE OR NOT TO WRITE

In this ever changing and ever progressing digital age, some just don’t take the time to send handwritten cards.  The thought behind a written note is endearing in itself.  It always touches my insides  when I receive a handwritten note…………….even if it is thank you note for their wedding gift.  For me, it starts with the paper.  I simply luv to touch and feel thick card stock.  The look should be eye-catching to you, the purchaser.  Choose what you consider stylish and chic.  Then, select a pen that showcases your handwriting at its’ best.  A pen is a pen, is a pen…………NOT!
Just take the time to write someone today about anything.  They will so appreciate the time you took to write and mail the sentiment spoken in the handwritten note. 

There is absolutely no science to this.  A handwritten note is just an absolutely great way to send personal thoughts!  It's just icing on the cake to do so on fabulous paper.

Until tomorrow.......

D Leigh Gray

Click images for credit.

PERFECTLY IMPERFECT!

Boy is it a Monday!  However, today, I will simply chalk it up to "Life".  A few things went wrong with the blog post this morning, but hey, things happen!  After trying for quite some time to get the post up, I have decided that maybe for some reason it wasn't suppose to be up today.  Any who, it is what it is and I shall keep on keeping on.

Please return tomorrow for your regularly scheduled program.  What is that you say? 

Interior design ideas that incorporate the best vintage and antique finds, chic stationery, and bits of fashion........of course!

In the meantime, follow me on Twitter @SouthandGray !

Until tomorrow.......

D Leigh Gray

YOU'RE INVITED TO LOUNGEFEST!

This Friday has me thinking that lounging here would be just a bit of heaven.  This space is completely functional which is super important when you have kids.  An evening of drinks with girlfriends is also a great option.  I want an outdoor living space............honey are you listening?

JOSYLN TAYLOR



Happy Friday!

D Leigh Gray