studio10001

Think JM Barrie had the same idea...........

LeAnne, do you mean that the jowl? Never seen a real gator 'up close and uncomfortable".
Are the jowls normally so pale? My eye goes to that part of the painting.

I am not familiar with the bayous, so feel free to ignore me. (All Gators ... read that!)

Yes, I believe the "soft white underbelly" effect should not extend so high onto the jaw. In pictures, a gator does have more color on the lower jaw and the white is reserved more for the underside. See the link to the photos. The eye looks good to me. http://www.arkive.org/american-alligator/alligator-mississippiensis/image-G51196.html

If keeping the carpet, try whitewashing the panelling in some unobtrusive spot to see if it sticks. If not, prime and paint off white. White or off white curtains would look good and be flexible in the future, too. If you want to keep the current blue curtains, they do add a good bright note.

This type of panelling does not take to whitewashing well, but Zinsser makes a good primer that will allow you to paint without sanding. Flat paint will hide the imperfections best and, done in a light shade, will give you a cottage effect.

I like that better.

Table ideas anybody?

Take a look at www.citylivingdesign.com. There are lots of center pedestals and center pedestal tables that can be made to the correct size to fit the banquette.

as your appliances need replacing, get white on white - they have no black or chrome trims and look better.

You are getting some nice suggestions above. The only thing I will add is that I find the cornice board in keeping with the country style of the kitchen and a practical cover for the sink light, which I would not replace - I find the new pendants are a largely bizarre look when coupled with the scale of a double window and older detailing. Trading the valance for cafes, as in toats photo, would seem like enough to freshen the window without swinging too far forward in time.

Check w your local thrift stores, Ikea, and Target. Online, there is Overstock and Wayfair.

You could do a groovy 70's hippie vibe. Carpeting stores can cut a carpet to any size and shape. Look for remnants. Maybe you could find a shag and have it cut to size. Remnants are often around $100 for the size you need. Then stake out the thrift stores for lots of throw pillows and furniture pieces in good shape. Buy 4 huge bean bags. Look for a Moroccan style light. You can have a lot of fun decorating this room on the cheap. http://www.pinterest.com/pin/559924166143865334/

Thank you all for the suggestions!! They are all great!!

Depends on the scale of the patterns - if they look pleasing against one another to you, go for it - and continue to look for additional patterns to play the two against when choosing sofa cushions, throws and occasional chairs.

This is another view of loft bed in front of window of my 3 1/2 year old granddaughter's room.

I need ideas on how to decorate windows. I was thinking if 3 point scarf drape but please help with ideas that are unique, safe and make your eyes go to window not necessarily the loft bed.

The bed is not pushed up against window yet as in the photo walls were being painted.

Add a cornice board painted to match the wall. If you are handy, paint the blinds to blend into the stripes, as well. Scarves and drapes will not look decorative here, and could cause safety issues.

When you paint, look towards a darker wall tone; your sofa, wall art and the view will come forward at that point, and give you the contrast you are missing. On a minor note, making all the books under the lamp the same shade makes a stronger look, as will removing one clear piece from the coffee table.

The only thing I would change is the round sconces on the wall. In a natural wood, brass or deep grey that would pull your eye toward the window.

Natasha, I read your initial post: something needs to pop and you like monochromatic.
You wonder if there's too much contrast?of navy pillows with what the couch?

Since you live there, please explain more, or post photos of what your place in basics looks like, But with pop and wow and shazam....... ? it would help.

I haven't lived in a high-rise, but I've heard that you can leave the indoors more plain so as to not draw too much attention from the view outdoors. Do you think that way?

Maybe paint the table and buy new chairs - target has lots of good ones

Looks fine Az, and everyone here has been or is amateur, so you are in good company. Thanks for sharing the results!

You already have an accent wall with a fireplace on it. Keeping all other walls neutral will give it support. I like the light tone that is on your walls now, and would stick to something similar on both walls and risers.

I have a suggestion for hanging curtains on those windows: don't.

Just say no. Let your windows go bare-a** naked. They'll thank you. (If you have neighbors, ignore this advice.)

margie - looks like Alternanthera 'Red Threads'.

Yes, I will look up some videos on ragging online. Sounds perfect!

I will just add it to my to do list. Actually, bathroom has precedence over bedroom. I need it finished for house evaluation.

So I am happy to have that issue solved. Meanwhile, any other ragging tips, bring them on!

Taking a break from my "Sponge Mog, Square Pants" cartoon. You are correct Licksch, sponging takes for-evah. I have to keep at it though, gotta match the adjoining rooms. Same tones as the Travertine tile. I do about 3 layers, (or more), using cream tones mixed with varying ratios of glaze. Am taking pix as I progress. (Progress ... What is That?)

Here is a shot (think I posted it b/4 on spencers thread. Our powder room , same sponging process, using bronzes and metallic coppers.

PV, your pix are great. Agree the ragging process is faster with great results. Flo-trol, for this is essential and not expensive.

licksch, have we seen the bathroom? Can we help?

I have a beautiful Doe coming out that has her head lowered to the grass with great legs! I will come up with another and put them on Craigslist in Tahoe!!!

I agree w Jeffrey and, whatever the budget, would also prioritize improved lighting.

I think your cabinets are still good. You can change your lighting, hardware and countertop along with the backsplash and flooring. If you want to get ideas visit our site: http://missionwest.biz/ or feel free to contact us for inquiries. We would be more than happy to help!

It already looks pretty good. New lighting and new hardware will update this kitchen in a day.

And while nobody wants to see animals without a home, that is roughly the same argument made for FGM. The view that some animals seem to survive without side effect is not to the point,as a reported 38% of declawed cats have extreme issues of mobility and lethargy (note that the figure includes none but extreme problems): their existence should not be predicated on the potential for harm from their owners.

Scratch-proof furniture... concrete... yes, there is such a thing... used in corrections industry. Don't like concrete furniture? Two simple solutions; keep the cat outside where it can do some good ridding of mice and snakes or get rid of it. The amount of cat dander and floating hair in the air can't be healthy anyway. Yes, I'm allergic to cats and they know that - they are attracted to those of us with such allergies. No, the rest of us don't like your cat as much as you do. Or the smells. Or the sneezing. Or the itchy eyes. You asked for an answer. You got one. Simple, logical, and allows you to purchase whatever furniture you want. No, don't think "cat people" will be swayed. Your alternative is to deal with the airborne "stuff" and retire your furniture rather frequently.

I think I'm somewhere in the middle on this one.
We have two cats and that is plenty. I'm not tempted to fill our home with animals.
Yes, there is cat dander and floating hair, but can be kept in check by (a) brushing cats regularly and (b) normal cleaning routine [vacuuming/dusting]. Lint brush works wonders on clothes. You learn which fabrics fur tends to stick to the most. Our new sofa will be covered in Polyester, very durable.
Those with severe rather than moderate allergies, can take an anti-histamine before visiting or we meet up elsewhere. As for people who hate animals, not a problem, I don't have friends like that. On purpose. ha ha

Sheen is always a personal choice but the higher gloss tends to give a very modern look.. Keep in mind the lower the sheen the less the imperfections will show that would be my choice. The light will reflect on a high sheen and unless the grain is filled perfectly you will see it. Low sheen seems to fit with any decor and if it is top quality durability would not be an issue.

old post.

Wear your sunglasses and pose, my peeps!

Peops looks funny. :)

Would folks still feel unsafe w pics that only refer to their site monikers?

I said, I guess Margaret. Still thinking about other photo. Love the sandals. Hmmmm, looks like small feet.

Thanks for the guess Auntie but not telling yet until more feet pics arrive and all the guesses come in:)

What would you think of a charcoal/black and white geometric?

Thankyou Joseph. I will wait to hear back from you on the brand that you used.

For those asking about the paint I used its this brand using a primer (1 coat) and the paint (2coats). Ofcourse it's all about the preparation and application so read the instructions as you would. Good luck!

Everything you have mentioned sounds good to me, including the pulls. Hayley has a good point re. painting costs, but as the entire design is changing to coastal, a handworked finish is not out of line, should you go the DIY route. Prep well, use the right applicators and look at oil based paints for the 3/4 that get that finish: if you have never done this yourself, the online tutorials are decent intros.

Thanks! I agree with you and am re-thinking the backsplash and leaning towards something in the beige family like a travertine tile.

Hi there! Maybe something like the backsplash in this photo would interest you. As you can see, our B.Jorgsen & Co. Victoria Ivory kitchen cabinets look great next to the tile backsplash. Good luck with your project!

Really lovely, aiga! Great lines, fresh finishes, and clever use of trapped corner space for your tea station. Congratulations!

Black stain or almost black slate color stain can be stunning provided the contrasting trim can carry it and has a statement to make. To me, you need gorgeous landscaping and nice detailing in the trim work--like well proportioned divided lights that will really pop with the dark house for example. With a dark house you are staging the details of your house front and center which is the idea.

This look could be really intriguing and mysterious on some houses, but I live in Houston and an all black interior would mean attracting a huge amount of sun and heat. With out summer norm being "feels like 120 degrees," all black would be murderous!

Sounds like you already know what you prefer.

It is not needed, but might come in handy when children come to visit, or if you are reselling in the near future, for the sake of potential little ones.

I would definitely go with a tub, especially if the others have shower only.

Yes, have at least one bathtub.

I also vote shower, but wanted to mention that 9' is a whole lotta squeegee action.

older post

Ty. Bathroom is my favorite room in the house. I love it. Thanks again.

Pic

Ah yes, beautiful! Love how you changed up size and arrangement of tile. Vanity and countertop are also very lovely.

Enjoy your "new" place!

I was interested to read the comment regarding a drop in quality since 2000; as I understand it, that roughly correlates w the beginning of the Starr program. Refrigerators are due for another manufacturing shift as the 2014 DOE requirements go into effect this fall, and if energy savings is indirectly proportional to decreased longevity , it seems likely that we can expect more of the same for the near future. Company reputations may be a better guide than reviews as the new models roll out.
(In full disclosure, I own a 13 year old bottom of the line unit w a high starr rating due to an upper freezer and no bells - which could also be the reason for its longevity ( knock wood).)

My Kenmore with freezer on bottom and two doors that open wide is perfect for entertaining because it handles platters and party trays easily!!! It's not given me any problems since I got it 10 years ago!

I have a Sub-Zero which I can't wait to get rid of. It always has condensation on everything and all the paint chipped of where the door meets the fridge to close. Every other year we need a repairmen because of some problem. It's built in (not by me) so getting a replacement might be problematic. I have a cheap refrigerator from Home Depot in the basement that has never given me any trouble. Sub-Zero is the worst!

karemore? ehm...think she's got it :))))

And Karemore 55- I love the photos you posted for me. Those are beautiful rooms!

those closed-in rooms can feel stuffy. I like some restaurants that use rich colors/or striking with dark wood. I know you've heard enough probably, but just wondering if you might like a color on ceiling/walls that would reduce formal, cave-like. Or don't paint them white, but a treatment of gray.

I normally ..
Would say ....Please don't paint the beams ...
But yours have turned out fab ...
And so much better without the railings ....
And the flooring is lush ..

Great job, bila66; thanks for showing us the results. You may have made some converts today!

You can go for beige or pale greige for a muted palette. Or a cream palette. For contrast you might want a mustard yellow or strong orange depending on how you want to pump up the room. Work with texture as well, velvet satin, silk, laquer. Shag rugs or Mongolian sheep wool cushions

Indoor outdoor area rugs seem a good choice for your weather.

This site carries the major brands: http://outdoorrugsonly.com/

I like Maureen's picture...perfect for the area!

Thanks Vickie! Does it matter that my front door will open towards the table versus it being behind as in the photo posted by Maureen?
Also, what would you put against the wall to the left of the white bedroom door if I placed a table by the front door?

Hi, vishandi. If you can upload some photos, or give dimensions, Houzzers are likely to have some ideas for you.

Meanwhile, perhaps one of these will help: http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/query/library

[houzz=Recent Projects][houzz=Autumn Ridge Crestmoor Model Home]

I also prefer the metal fan. The location of your box and its distance from the seating area make a chandelier treatment awkward.