world map wallpaper

I never thought I would EVER have wallpaper in our condo, but I am trying something new. After watching 9 by Design on Bravo, I have been inspired to just go for it. What is the worst that will happen?

projects around the condo:

1. I finally got around to hanging up the giant pear with 3M tape. I figure if/when I get sick of it, I can just quickly take it down without damaging the wall.

2. I also started painting a (free) mirror to hang above the fireplace. I was originally going to go with shiny black, but thought it might be too much black with the TV and fireplace. Since we had left over Benjamin Moore Decorator's White in semi-gloss (our trim color), I figured I would use it. (and making the entire project cost about $5.00 and that was for the paint brush)

(the original gold color)

After!

In the Wash

on etsy.

Scrapboxes

I have never really been into scrapbooking because it takes so much time, money, and organization. I think these scrapboxes would be easier for me (less overwhelming than making an entire book) and a better way to display memories. (see the directions and more examples here)

balcony

ideas from cb2 and Ikea

mirror on a mirror

(picture from AT)

In my quest to make our ugly guest bathroom more aesthetically pleasing, I came across this idea from Jenny that I might try.

bath mat

One of my favorite new bath accessories is this rock bath mat. (if you go to the store, it is 20% off the online price) At first my husband thought I was crazy, but I really wanted a bath mat that didn't need to be washed. All I have to do with this one is vacuum it. And it feels SO good on my feet at the end of the day and takes me back to the rock covered beaches in the south of France.

Cubs stadium seats

While looking at apartment therapy for bar stool suggestions, I came across this house tour. Here are my favorites:

I wanted this entryway bench/locker from Pottery Barn, but my husband wanted Cubs stadium seats in our foyer. I first got the idea for lockers from my cousin's mom.

initial hooks from Anthropologie


I am going to try and post some pictures of our new place tonight!

bar stools

from overstock


or these from crate and barrel

expedit bookcase

(all pics from Isuwannee)

My husband will be building the Ikea expedit bookcase this weekend. That is, after we return the 4 square for the 5 square. Every piece of furniture looks tiny in our condo.
I will post pictures soon!

Tori Spelling's kitchen

Black cabinets (in her old house)

or

White cabinets (in the new kitchen)

I am very tempted to paint our cherry shaker style cabinets white (or black), but everyone seems to think I am crazy. (they look like this)

bathroom organization

little magnetic canisters to hold bobby pins and ponytail holders

glass cylinder to hold TP
(this was also feature in Domino)

(pics from Martha Stewart)

rock garden

stones

+

boot tray

=

The lion, the witch and the wardrobe

I am a little obsessed with trying to find a space in our new place for this antique Italian wardrobe. (from Jayson Home and Garden)

PS: We are moving in on Friday!

DIY Ikea nightstand

As I was reading the blog my little apartment, I came across a link to this fantastic Ikea hack. It was originally featured on Penny People Designs.