Eclectic, whimsical, colorful, these are all the words I would use to describe my home. I'm happiest with the current design situation when I find the perfect intersection of kitsch and chic.
Years of excitement, a love of all things quirky, and being raised in a 128 year old Victorian home by avid collectors, I was destined to live in a house like this.
Join me in this episode of DIY This With Jennifer Perkins where I give you the complete tour of my house.
Bookshelves are great, but pages are better. Flea markets and antique stores often sell exhibits that they have covered in their wares. It never hurts to ask if the actual exhibit (etagere) is for sale. These stylish tiered shelves are a great way to display collectibles.
The bottom shelf of this etagere is also home to a collection of art magazines. Check out Not With Grandma's Scrapbook and Art Journaling With Kids for my ideas on how to make your own.
Don't be afraid to mix textures in your home decor. Chic 1970s mirrored credenzas are warmed up by Kilim rugs, plants, and large collaged art pieces.
The more etageres the better. One of the big differences between a shelf and a bookcase is that the shelves are made of glass, which creates a lighter, airier display. Perfect for small vignettes.
Try making your own DIY coiled rope bowls and planters.
Mix and match found art, family portraits, children's projects and more on one giant gallery wall. The key to an interesting gallery wall is to use different sizes, genres, frames, and textures. You don't want a gallery wall to look like it was collected from the same store on the same day.
Spice up found pieces with this art makeover from the Thrift Store.
Think outside the traditional box when choosing art for your walls. Go with a statement piece like the old store signage. Perfect for your craft room.
Take a trip to the Round Top Flea Market in this DIY This With Jennifer Perkins episode to learn some tips and tricks for shopping at the flea market.
Don't underestimate places like Craigslist (green couch) or the floral chairs in your parents' garage) as great places to find standout pieces of home decor. Be patient when browsing the listings, it will pay off and remember, there's nothing a good reupholstery job can't fix.
Take a look at this same room decorated for Halloween and Christmas.
Different decades and styles can be perfectly combined in a room with the right pieces. The 70's glass dining table and Lightolier blend perfectly with the bohemian vibes of these rattan chairs and the various fabrics throughout the room.
This year, try skipping the traditional family portrait and instead commission an artist to paint or illustrate her family. This has been a tradition since my oldest daughter was born and now our collection covers my favorite wall.
Head over to HGTV and read all about Skipping the Traditional Family Portrait This Year.