Category Archives: Home decor ideas

Craigslist Buffet Transformation

I’m back!! Sorry for my absence. I’ve had a lot going on recently (business-wise)  and was feeling a little un-inspired in the home decor department.

I’m feeling rejuvenated and ready to share some fun upcoming projects with you! Which brings me to my latest project..

After about a year of searching Craigslist for an antique buffet/sideboard (apparently I am kind of picky) I finally found the perfect piece!

Here’s what it looked like before:

 It has all the intricate details I was after – stunning turned legs, scalloped wood & tons of gorgeous wood detailing.

After a good sanding, 3 coats of paint, stenciling and new hardware.. here is what the buffet looks like after:

Cute right?

{Supplies used}

* 1 gallon Behr paint in pure white satin finish – Home Depot

* 1 gallon Martha Stewart Dolphin Gray in satin finish – Home Depot

* Electric sander –  $30 at Home Depot

* Martha Stewart stencil pack with quatrefoil stencil – Found at Michaels  here

* Martha Stewart sponge paint roller & tray – Found at Michaels here

* New hardware from Anthropology

Now to get started:

Step 1 – Remove hardware & doors. Sand down the wood to remove shine & any scratch marks – I used 80 grit sand paper for this. I had to sand the legs by hand (UGH).

PS. Yes I know my garage looks like a junk yard. We need to have a  garage sale, don’t judge!

Step 2 – Vacuum sanding dust then wipe down entire piece with damp cloth.

Step 3 – Paint time! In both paints I bought the primer & paint all in one, since I really hate priming. Using the all in one paint worked great.

I did 3 coats of white – in some spots I had to do 4 coats

I painted the cabinet doors with 2 coats Dolphin Gray

Step 4 – Stenciling. I decided to use the quaterfoil stencil from the Martha Stewart stencil pack. I was a little tricky at first to get the hang of it. The second drawer was definitely better than my first, but I don’t really mind.

Tape down your stencil, making sure it’s straight.

Only use a small amount of paint on your sponge roller, and gently roll over the stencil. If you use too much paint on your roller, it will seep under the stencil and then design doesn’t come out so pretty.

Not bad right?

Step 5 – Install pretty new hardware & you’re done!

We finally have extra storage!

This weekend Clay & I are going to Ikea to get these floating shelves to go above the buffet. I still need a spot to store all my wine glasses & pitchers, so I think the shelves will work perf. Can’t wait to see what it looks like.

Stay tuned for the big reveal!

By the way, do you think I should paint our dining table?? It seems so dark now..

Oh and we are also going to finally hang this lovely gold chalkboard above the buffet too.

Enjoy your weekend! Xo, Melissa

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DIY Wood Pallet Wall

I know the title of this post probably sounds really weird,  but trust me on this! I have been seeing this idea all over Pinterest & “Blogtown”. Honestly it’s brilliant. It’s inexpensive, recycled wood – so it’s Eco-Friendly and gorgeous! I always like incorporating a little rustic into a space. Adding a natural element seems to make a space feel more grounded and homey. Idk, maybe that’s just me.

These walls are made out of FREE wood pallets!! Loving this beachy shabby chic look. To achieve the whitewashed shabby look, brush over the pallets with something like this and then lightly sand with 60 grit sandpaper. You might want to water down the white wash stain, depending on the look you want.

This tutorial shows you how to create a wood pallet wall & the weathered/white washed look. They did an incredible job.

{Via Real Housewives of Bucks County}

{Via Design Sponge}

{Via Just A Girl}

 This darker wood makes the whole room into a masculine and edgy boy room. Love it.

{Via Just A Girl}

Wood pallets are typically FREE, just call around your local area!

This adorable baby boy nursery is the cutest! This Blog has a really good pallet accent wall tutorial as well & great safety tips.

{Via Bower Power}

I am highly obsessed with The Lettered Cottage. See how they re-did their reading room. Simply amazing. I love how the room looks like it’s right out of a Pottery Barn catalog!!

{Via The Lettered Cottage}

Can you believe creating a  wood pallet accent wall is cheaper than painting?!? Not to mention it looks like it’s a billion times more expensive than it actually is.

By the way, this would absolutely increase the value of your home. Just in case you were wondering.

Xo, Melissa & Virginia

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TV Solutions & Decorating Ideas

TVs are probably the hardest design challenge when it comes to living room spaces. It’s like do you mount it over the fireplace? Hide it behind an armoire cabinet? Stuff it in the corner?! I too have had the hardest time with this. Our living room is pretty small and we have a massive TV! (I blame this on my Husband) I have gotten a couple of emails from readers asking for my ideas on how to make their TV NOT be the focal point of their entire room. So here ya go!

 Idea #1 – Frame art around your TV

{Via Lonny Mag}

AMAZING right?? I love this idea. Embrace your TV by framing art or photos around it! So simple & fun. Personalize it by choosing frame colors that go with your decor!

{Via AB Chao}

It can even be off centered & still look amazing. I love how this blends perfectly with the gallery wall.

{Via Laura Winslow Photography}

Makes such a difference don’t you think?

{Via Pinterest}

Idea #2 – Frame your TV!

{Via Apartment Therapy}

{Source unknown}

{Via FrameMyTV}

Check out Frame My TV for custom TV framing!

You could also go to the antique fair & look on Ebay or Craigslist to find frames to fit your TV

Do you like these ideas? Have you done something similar? I’m always looking for more ideas, so please share!

Xo, Melissa

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Going “green” in the kitchen {by Erik Braunitzer & Elliman Real Estate of NYC}

This is Erik Braunitzer, from Elliman Real Estate in New York City. I am very excited for the opportunity to guest post for Melissa & Virginia here at House To Home Blog.

Tips for a greener kitchen

By Erik Braunitzer, and compliments of Douglas Elliman Real Estate Company, agents for NYC Rentals.

There’s a lot of emphasis these days on going green, but one of the places it’s heard most is in the housing industry. The way we use resources in our homes as we go about our daily lives has a tremendous impact on our carbon footprint, and this is especially true in one of the most energy-heavy rooms of the house: the kitchen.

Appliances: A home’s kitchen is its heart. All too often, it’s the heart of our electrical bill, too. Kitchens are full of large, energy-sucking appliances. One of the most direct ways to reduce home energy use is by ensuring that all major appliances such as stove, fridge, microwave, and dishwasher are energy-star compliant at the very least. Exceeding those standards would be even better. For dishwashers and faucets, purchasing models that use less water or utilize low-flow technology is another key element. Look for appliances with the energy star sticker. Not only is this better for the environment, but you will save loads of money on your bill.

{via Comparance}

Lighting: A combination of natural lighting during the day and efficient lighting in the evenings add up to green savings. Compact fluorescent bulbs can be used in existing standard-sized sockets, and last up to ten times longer than standard incandescent bulbs. Alternatively, LEDs are even more efficient, lasting up to ten times longer than CFLs. During the day, try to not flip a switch on at all, and instead use the light from windows. If existing windows are old or drafty, consider replacing them with an energy-efficient alternative. Most of a home’s heat loss occurs through its windows, so it’s important to find a balance that allows plenty of natural light without sacrificing excess energy loss.

Counters: Counter tops are the real workhorse of a kitchen, but green can still be tough. Kitchen counters can be made of recycled glass, sustainable hardwoods, renewable bamboo, or natural stone. Any of these options provides a beautiful, chemical-free alternative to the typical plastics-based counter top that may be off-gassing toxins into your home for years to come.

Reclaimed wood counter tops – beautiful & recycled{Photo via Fresh Interiors}

{via CoolCounters}

Flooring: Replacing worn vinyl with new vinyl doesn’t solve any environmental problems. Vinyl is a petroleum-based product that cannot be recycled, does not degrade, and has a limited lifespan. The production process required to create vinyl includes toxic waste as one of its main byproducts. Natural linoleum or cork flooring is comparable in price to high-end vinyl, have natural antimicrobial properties, and are both very durable. Both are renewable, and biodegradable, making them ideal for the homeowner who wants to go green. Natural tile and bamboo are other good alternatives.

Chevron reclaimed wood floors {Via Pinterest}

{Via Pinterest}

Cabinets: Remember, being green isn’t just about using non-toxic, renewable, or energy-efficient products. It’s also about keeping waste out of landfills and making the most out of your existing resources. If current kitchen cabinetry is dated but still functional and sound, a quick coat of glossy zero-VOC paint can bring them up to date. If the alternative is to rip out the kitchen and dump the cabinets in a landfill while replacing them will all-new cabinets made from recycled or sustainable materials, which option is really better for the environment? High-quality non-toxic paint is a whole lot easier on the budget, too.

Reclaimed wood cabinetry goes with any style. Whether you like rustic, modern, contemporary or a mix of a few.. you can achieve that look with reclaimed wood

{Images via Pinterest}

Remember, going green isn’t just about physical surroundings. It’s about the decisions we make every day. This includes making smart choices about water usage by taking short showers and only running full wash loads, recycling, composting, and carpooling. A few small changes tossed in with all that remodeling will make it easy to be green.

Erik is a member of the creative writing & web strategy department at PDE. Along with an experienced team of writers, he blogs mostly about interior design and issues of sustainability. For more information, feel free to contact Erik directly.

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Photograph Collage Wall Complete

I finally got around to making that collage wall I was telling you about awhile ago! I found the idea on Pinterest and knew I had to do it. It’s like personalized wallpaper!

The part that took me the longest was sorting through our millions of wedding & engagement photos.

I picked up the knob from Anthropologie

I wanted the entire door covered in photos, so to fill in any bare spots, I cut out some photos of our wedding cake, favors, scenery etc

Considering what the door used to look like…

this is a huge improvement!

You like? Xo, Melissa

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“YUM” Kitchen Sign

Good morning! Hope you all had a nice weekend. I spent mine holding an open house for one of our listings, then we went out dancing with a bunch of friends to celebrate one of my bestie’s birthdays. Sunday, we took Frank to the dog park, did a little shopping and had a nice family dinner at Clay’s parents. I also finished up our photo collage wall. It’s looking pretty dang cute. Can’t wait to share with you tomorrow!

Okay, so I really liked that ever so popular “EAT” sign that has been popping up on blogs everywhere. I didn’t want to just do the same, so this is my take on it:

When the babe & I were at Joann’s last week picking up our items for making our headboard, I spotted these paper mache letters, only $2.99 each. I bought em & sprayed them with my fav spray paint ever – Rustoleum gold metallic… the thing is, it was really cold when I sprayed the letters and the paint started crackling!!

Anyway whatever, I still like them. I think it adds character haha. It kind of reminds me of the cracked nail polish trend that’s going on right now.

What do you think? Do you think I should sand & re-paint it or just leave them?

Oh btw, I used these awesome little adhesive squares to put the letters up. Got them at Joann’s as well. You can remove the adhesive and it leaves no damage at all.

I will definitely be using these paper mache letters for the baby room also! They are just too cute not to.

Xo, Melissa

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OlioBoard Obsessed

I recently came across the most amazing website known to man.. or should I say women. It’s called OlioBoard and I am beyond obsessed. I spent approx 3 hours playing around with the site & designing my ideal home office!

Here’s the gist of how it works; You create your own digital mood/inspiration boards on their site & save them to your profile. A lot of interior designers use this site + regular people who want to design their own space.

 It’s free to join. They do have a pro version that enables you to choose wall colors, add text & use the budget feature, which is $8.99 a month.

All the images you select on the site are fully available for purchase and they list the product’s specifications & prices!! Amazing! You can even upload your own inspiration photos from your computer or photos of your current furniture.

I put this board together for my ideal home office. What do you think?

{Click to enlarge}

It really helps you envision the room you are trying to create.. instead of buying items at stores only to find out that they don’t match your current decor – talk about a major time saver.

White Parson desk $299 from West Elm ** Round Coco sunburst mirror $199 from West Elm **Aqua glass table lamp $502 from Layla Grayce ** Grant Wing Back Chair in Ivory w/Nail head trim $999 from Home Decorators ** Reflections white storage shelf $349 from Home Decorators  ** 9 drawer mirrored dresser $1,963 from Layla Grayce ** Paris Flea market collection champagne chandelier $700 from Layla Grayce ** Distressed metallic pillow $48 from DwellStudio ** Gold Leaf Cade table lamp $179 from Home Decorators ** Gold table clock $74 from Layla Grayce ** Glossy red boxes – set of 3 $79 from Dwell ** Small wire basket $13 from Crate & Barrel** Yellow laquered magazine storage $22 from West Elm ** Pearl box $48 from West Elm ** White washed weaved storage bins $39 from West Elm ** Trina gold corkboard $49 from Home Decorators **Owl Coin bank $10 from All Modern  ** Bold Black & White Stripped rug $399 from Overstock** Metallic Gold Leather Moroccan Pouf $199 from Overstock

 

xo, Melissa

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DIY Tufted Headboard Tutorial

I have been wanting a headboard in our room for so long. For some reason it was just never something high on the priority list. I also never really found one I was in love with – that wasn’t $1,000+

The other day, I was searching for something on Google and came across this amazing blog and saw that she did an incredible tufted headboard and tutorial.  So I thought, why not give it a try!

Let me first start off by saying that this wasn’t complicated or hard to do, but just takes time! Clay & I did this over a weekend, but you could stretch it out over the week.

The headboard took about 2 days from start to finish. We followed Little Green Notebook’s tutorial exactly.

After doing this myself, I came up with a lot of tips for you, which I will share throughout this post.

{Materials you will need}

Home Depot

  • Pegboard from Home Depot, cut to size. We measured our bed (King size) and had them cut the pegboard 40 inches high x 76 inches wide
  • Spray adhesive
  • Staple gun & staples
  • Mounting hardware to attach headboard to the wall behind the bed

Joann’s Fabric Store

  • 3 inch thick upholstery foam 

**Huge Tip** Download the Joann’s app on your smartphone for a 50% off coupon. They have coupons every month for 50% off a single item, plus 20% off your entire purchase. For some reason these pieces of foam are extremely expensive – we would have paid $120 just for the foam!

  • High loft batting
  • 3 1/2 yards (less if your bed is smaller than king size) of whatever fabric you like. Originally I wanted a more velvet blush pink fabric, but we found a light blush pink satin fabric for 50% off, making it only $4.99 a yard!

Here was my inspiration photo

  • 4 inch upholstery needle
  • Waxed button thread

**Tip** I highly recommend using waxed upholstery grade thread, don’t use non-waxed. Half way through the tufting, we ran out of thread, so I went to a different fabric store that was closer to our house. They only had non-waxed thread. It was IMPOSSIBLE to work with. We ending up having to go back to Joann’s to get the waxed stuff anyway. The wax sticks to the fabric and makes it much easier for making knots as well – more on that later.

  • Button making kit + refills 5/8 inch size – enough to make 58 buttons. You can do less if you plan on having less tufts or if you have a smaller headboard.

Total cost $150 – not bad for an upholstered king headboard

Now that you have all your supplies let’s begin!!

First you will need to figure out your tufting pattern – we decided on rows of 11 and 10 buttons, alternating each row

circle where you will make your holes with chalk

then take a sharpie and make dots through the chalk marked holes.

Take the pegboard off and now you have your pattern.

Take a pairing knife and cut out your tuft holes

Now that all your holes are done, use your spray adhesive and glue the foam to the pegboard. Now all the holes will match up and you’re ready for tufting.

**Tip** make sure to let the foam hang off a 1/2 over the pegboard on the top and sides. This will make the edges more cushy and soft looking when you go to staple the fabric around the edges.

Then make your buttons with your kit

This part wasn’t as bad as I was anticipating.. we watched some Oprah & Real Housewives + we had this fatty to keep us company 🙂

Once all your buttons are done

Lay your pegboard, foam, batting &  fabric down – in that order

Take your needle, waxed thread & button

and poke it through your first hole

Pull it through and staple a couple of times. Triple knot the thread around the staple to ensure it doesn’t come loose

And there’s your first tuft! Yeee!

I am so thankful the Little Green Notebook said to start in the middle of all rows and work your way out with the tufts & save the edge tufts for last.

Knowing us, we would have totally botched this part if not for her advice!

After all your tufts are done, staple at the bottom on the foam slightly pushing up when stapling so that your staples aren’t visible.

Then just simply pull fabric tight around all edges and staple to the back!

Attach your mounting hardware & attach to your wall behind your bed & there you go!!

What a difference this pretty headboard makes in our room!

Notice how the tufting starts right at the top of our mattress and the rest hides behind the bed perfectly

Our headboard kind of reminds me of this Pottery Barn one – I think ours is way cuter though and we didn’t have to spend $800 Yay!

What do you think? Are you thinking about making one??

It really makes our bedroom feel so romantic & chic. What do you think of the color?

The best part is, I was about to buy something identical to this headboard for $600 about a year ago. With everything said and done, we spent a total of $150!

Hope you like our headboard as much as we do!

Xo, Melissa

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DIY Tufted Headboard Sneak Peak!

We are loving our new tufted headboard!

The step by step tutorial will be up tomorrow. For now here is a little sneak peak:

Here is the tutorial

Xo, Melissa

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Weekly Pinterest Favs {Easy DIY projects}

Mirrored furniture is extremely popular right now. I have had my eye on this peice to complete our living room & provide some much needed storage. Honestly though either I’m becoming a major bargain shopper or I am just getting used to Craigslist & TJ Maxx prices, because for some reason I just can’t pull the trigger. It’s also $800 for a decorative piece. Little ridiculous. Plus Babe has been dying for a new bed and would be a little annoyed if I bought that over a new bed first! OK anyways, I found this awesome and easy peasy DIY on Pinterest:

{How to make mirrored furniture}

Step 1 – Buy a thrift store dresser, desk, buffet with drawers

Step 2 – paint it in whatever color you like

Step 3 – Measure the drawer panels where the mirrors will go & have a hardware store cut the mirrors to size – Pay extra to have polished edges

Step 4 – Drill holes for the hardware & apply the mirrors to the drawers with mirror glue or liquid nails.

Step 5 – Tape mirrors on furniture to ensure they stay in place while drying. Let dry overnight & you’re done!

Now you have a chic and glamorous new piece of furniture

Check out this DIY mirrored coffee table tutorial

{Tufted ottoman DIY}

Make an ottoman out of an old coffee table or chair! Brilliant & cost effective! Instructions here

{All images from Pinterest}

{DIY Herringbone Tray}

This looks so easy! All you really need is a tray, paint, ruler and tape. She did a great job. You could do this in whatever color matches your decor. I’m tempted to do this in hot pink.. ah so cute!

Instructions here

{Photos via House & Home}

So those are my Pinterest favorites this week.. This weekend me & the man will be attempting this tufted headboard project ekksss!! I’m really scared but I think we can pull it off; I’ll keep you posted with pics & everything!

Any of you attempted making your own headboard?? Please share your tips with me, as I will need all the help I can get! Haha

Xo, Melissa

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