So, I should really be blogging more....

I started teaching my Do-It-Yourself Design class at the local community college today and one of my students asked me what blogs I read and I had mentioned that I have my own blog.  I told her that I don't write as often as I should and that I wish I had more time to do it.  Her response was "You should take it seriously, look at Nate Berkus!"  I completely agree with her, I do need to take it more seriously...I would like to write at least one really great, informative post a week.  I am at a really cool place in my career right now and I have a lot to talk about...maybe too much, which makes it hard to decide what to blog about.  If there is anyone out there who is reading this, do me a favor....give me some ideas on what you, as a blog reader interested in Interior Design, would like to read about.  I have a million ideas, but it would be nice to blog about something that I know people want to read!!

Thanks!!!

A Fresh Look For An Old Chair!

Do you have a vintage chair that needs a makeover?  Does it need to be re-upholstered in a fresh, fashionable fabric?  Does it need to be re-finished in a bold, bright color?  Look no further....check out
The Divine Chair!!

Designer and Owner, Kitty McBride pairs vintage chairs with new fabrics to create one-of-a-kind art works.  McBrides' unique method of updating antique finds into stylish accent pieces for your home can only be described as " Reduce, Re-Use & Re-Style!"

If you don't have an old chair to refinish, but you love her work, you can also purchase her one-of-a-kind chairs on her website,  www.thedivinechair.com.


Here are a few of my favorites but you should check out the rest on her website:

Lady-JOJO

Mel---Kim

Molly

Snookie---Jwoww

The Perfect Bar Cart

Every home needs the perfect bar cart (even if you are not a drinker!) It adds an element of glamor and sophistication! Another option is simply a bar stand, which I have in my living room; I bought it from   
Classic Remix in the heart of Lincoln Park....I highly recommend you check it out!!  To get the perfect look for your bar cart or stand, add a lamp or antique vase; no need to fill it with only glasses.  Check out some of these fabulously styled bar carts and stands!...Enjoy!

Bar Stand in my living room from Classic Remix

via Apartment Therapy

via Epiplo Aris

via Name 5 Things

via A Well Dressed Home

via Design Public

via The Iconic Blog

via Host-It Notes

Cowhide Area Rugs

"Really Kim, you want to put a real cowhide on your floor???"  I have been asked this question multiple times and the answer is YES!! I know having a cowhide as an area rug may not be the standard in some homes but in mine, it is!! It was actually one of the first things I bought for our new place!  So, in honor of the cowhide rug, here are some beautiful interiors that showcase it...ENJOY!!

via House Beautiful

via Matters of Style

via Vastu Interiors

via Western Passion

via Elle Decor

via Hello Metro

via Decor Pad

Pintrest

I have recently discovered a website call Pinterest!! I am in love!  Pinterest is a visual pinboard where you can collect and share all sorts of things you love.  You create different boards and add pins to it...you can follow other peoples boards and re-pin their pins to your boards (they get the credit of course!)   It's a great way to share your interests and find out what others are interested in!  You may even find a new love for something.  My suggestion is to check it out...you have to sign up to be a member, but it is definitely worth it!

Happy Pinning!!

Fresh, Unique Solutions for Bookshelves.

My fiance and I are moving in together in August; I am so excited to finally get to design/decorate my own place; every room, every detail.  One feature that I have always wanted in my living room is wall to wall, floor to ceiling bookshelves.  Here are some really unique bookshelves with some really great storage solutions. Hope you enjoy!!

via Cup of Jo

      I love the drapery that covers the shelving.  It adds another layer and texture to this space. The drapery focuses on the height of the space. via Feng Shui Crazy 

via My Bit of Earth

via Seattle Tall Poppy

via Woodworkers Wood Shop

via Seattle Tall Poppy

This is such a great option for any room.  It looks beautiful and interesting...much more interesting than a side table or console.  This is a unique substitute to your typical bookshelves..   via rol.vn

This may be my favorite..not because of the shelving but because I am obsessed with the Ghost Chairs.  I would love to have a set of Ghost Chairs for our dining room.  They just add such a fresh element to the space. via Material Girls

The mirror in the center  is a fantastic way to break up the height and clutter of the bookshelves.  It also serves as a focal point for the space.  via Apartment Therapy

Accent Tables

I have been searching for the perfect accent table for a fabulous home we are designing in Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL.  During my search, I have stumbled upon some really fantastic tables and thought I would share my findings with you. Enjoy!!

via Mecox Gardens

via Design Within Reach

via Design Within Reach

via Pottery Barn

via West Elm

via Lauren Lozano Ziol Interior Design

via Room and Board

via Golden Triangle

via Mecox Gardens

via Golden Triangle

via West Elm

via Pottery Barn

via Jayson Home and Garden

via Jayson Home and Garden

via Arhaus

via Arhaus

2011 Color Trend: Gray

I would like to welcome Gray, with open arms, as the new color trend of 2011.  This chic, sophisticated color is being seen not only in interiors, but fashion as well; it has taken on the title of  "The New Neutral."  Are you looking for a neutral color scheme without the boring cream's and beige's?  Try creating an all gray, monochromatic, scheme with the addition of bold, graphic patterns and white and black accessories.  Looking for something more industrial?  Try adding stainless steel or metallic accessories to the mix?  Do you like bold colors?  Try adding pops of bright Blues, Reds, Purples and Oranges (another big trend for 2011) to your scheme.  The key to creating a successful gray color palette is to use all shades, ranging from black to white.  If you are not sure you want to fully commit to an all gray color palette, try adding charcoal gray furniture to your space with a more bold color for the walls.  You may also want to incorporate warmer materials to the space, such as wood or leather.  There are so many ways to incorporate Gray into your home.  Take a look at some fabulous Gray interiors. 

via Apartment Therapy

via Decorum

via House and Home

via Mochatini

via Lonny Magazine

via BW Living

via 03 Interiors