Need help with space planning?

Need a little help arranging your space but don't know where to start? Here is a handy tool provided by Better Homes & Gardens that you are sure to use over and over again. It is a self guided tool that allows you to play around with layouts for your space.

http://www.bhg.com/decorating/arrange-a-room/?ordersrc=google1roomarrangerfurniture&s_kwcid=TC|5599|how%20to%20arrange%20furniture||S|b|11133727258

DIY Barn Doors on a Budget

I've wanted to add doors to my office for some time now. I really like the idea of a barn door style for my space since the entry way is in a narrow hall & doesn't allow enough space for french doors. Here is a great DIY barn door article that I will be putting on the "honey do list". I am attaching my inspiration photo that truly set my heart on these doors.

DIY Barn Doors on a Budget

Paint Calculator by Benjamin Moore

Looking to paint a space in you home or office?  Use this handy paint calculator on Benjamin Moore's website.  It is a great tool to use and will save you time & money.

http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/for-your-home/paint-calculator;jsessionid=nlb2PkQGhBQd9D2l5GVtPKLkRR2SDThydb6jds2WjXD20pdqS2HQ!957282185!NONE

What size chandelier should I select for my space?

Not sure the proper size chandelier for your space?

 How do I determine the right size chandelier for my room?

Your chandelier should be one of the focal points of your room. Finding the right size fixture is not difficult when using the simple formula provided. The answer will give you a starting point for finding just the right size light fixture.

Measure the room you would like to put the chandelier in. Add the dimensions together. The sum equals the diameter (in inches) of the lighting fixture you will need.

For Example: The dimensions of your room are 10 by 13. Add 10 + 13 which equals 23. Your chandelier should be 23" in diameter (or 23" wide).

You can also look at the guidelines below to determine a range for the correct size fixture.

Room size is smaller than 10x10, use a 17" to 20" wide chandelier.
Room size is 12x12, use a 22" to 27" wide chandelier.
Room size is 14x14, use a 24" to 32" wide chandelier.
Rule of Thumb:  Never use a chandelier that is too small for your room. The light fixture will be distracting to the overall look you are trying to achieve.

D.I.Y. Outdoor Fire Pit

I love summer and especially the nights.  The clear skies, the stars, and all the wonderful outdoor activities.  Gather up all items for Smores and this fire pit is the perfect end to your day.

http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/535448/list/How-to-Make-a-Stacked-Stone-Fire-Pit

Here is the materials you will need.  Just visit the link on step by step instructions for your next weekend project.

Materials:
Concrete: 4 or 5 bags
Mortar: 5 or 6 bags
Rebar: 10 pieces (about 24 inches long)
Sandy creek flagstone and steppers: 1,600 pounds
Fire brick: 50 bricks

Supplies:
Safety glasses
Hose
Old wheelbarrow 
Chisel
Mallet
Shovel
Chemical gloves
Leather gloves
Lots of patience
2 bottles of ibuprofen

Dimensions: 5 feet wide and 18 inches tall, which is somewhat large, so use these figures loosely depending on the size of your yard.

Approximate cost: $450

How to Wall Mount a Plasma T.V. & Make it Pretty

I love using every inch of space in my & clients homes.  With that said, I always recommend hanging your plasma t.v. on the wall to maximize your space.  Check out this guide on how to properly install on your wall.

                                          http://www.wikihow.com/Wall-Mount-a-Plasma

Now let's get to the fun stuff.....making it pretty. You didn't think I was just going to hang a tv on the wall and leave it did you?????  Here is a link to a vintage wood frame around that wall hung t.v.  I love this look and it is very easy to do.

http://www.shelterness.com/diy-vintage-looking-tv-frame/

&

http://www.remodelaholic.com/2012/02/framing-in-a-wall-mount-television/

Now for another fun design idea.  Having your t.v. hidden by artwork with this lift.  Visit this site to find out how you can purchase one for your home.

                                           http://www.etihometheaters.com/?page_id=439

Valentines Day is just around the corner.....

Valentines Day is just around the corner, have you planned your romantic evening?  Being a rather new (ok she is 2 years old) I have discovered an all new way of "DATE NIGHT" planning.  Who says that you have to go to an over-priced restaurant to enjoy a romantic dinner.  Here are a few settings that I found as inspiration.

This table setting can be easily accomplished by using your kitchen table or patio table, covering with a white linen tablecloth (or you can use an ironed white flat bed sheet