Creative Decorating Ideas - 6

Designer Ann Nicholson Country Living Photo Keith Scott Morton

First of all, can we all take a moment to acknowledge the fabulous size and shape of the mirror in the photo above?
That's actually not why I chose the photo though. Look closely into the next room at the window (I believe it's an office). See how they've used ceiling height bookshelves on either side of the window instead of curtains and a bench sitting in the middle as sort of a modified version of a window seat? To finish it off, they've centered words above the window.

This pretty room below is a good example of a neutral room that's kept interesting with a mix of patterns, textures and some pops of color. I'm liking the layered mirrors...

BHG.com Cathy Spanski/Kristen Lutz

This great bedroom makeover from Southern Living (photos by Laurey W. Glenn) incorporates several very creative ideas.

For example, for a more contemporary look, a panel of a bold geometric fabric bordered with a solid linen was pulled taut on the top of this canopy bed frame. The beautiful bed pillow was made from a woven rug. They just folded both ends together, stitched the edges, and added batting.

I love the way Michele from Three Men and A Lady used this scarf to add a punch of color to this chair. Putting it under, rather than over, the cushion gives it a more unique look and also makes it more functional by keeping it in place. If you haven't seen her entire bedroom makeover, you'll want to check it out here.

I also just wanted to say thank you to all of you who left such nice comments on my photo of The Turquoise Barn yesterday! I was pleasantly surprised and, for a very brief moment, was tempted to change my blog to a photo blog for interesting barns.

A big thank you to the people who were creative enough to paint their barn turquoise! Here's to going outside the box and being brave enough to decorate, whether it be with paint or something else, with the things that put a smile on your face (and, in their particular case, everyone else's).