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Decorating Outside The Box
Author: JoAnne Lenart-Weary
One Day Decorating
 
 
The things that make a home fabulous are using elements in unexpected ways.  Don't get hung up on what the original purpose of the room or object was....use it how it works best for your lifestyle.  Just because they called it a dining room doesn't mean it can't be a sitting room.  Just because they call it a china closet...doesn't mean you have to store china in it.  Think outside the box and have fun with your home!  Here are some ideas to help you to give your home a decorator's flair!
  • Bring your china cabinet into the living room. Remove the doors and merchandise it with books, accessories, and family photos....mixed in with some of your china.  Creates a great focal point in a room that is not architecturally attractive.
     
  • Hang a picture low between the bottom of the lampshade and the lamp table to create an element of surprise. 
     
  • Don't neglect the ceilings in your home.  You might paint it (any color but white) or wallpaper it.  Even add some interesting wood moldings to create a faux tray ceiling look.
     
  • Float your furniture in a V-shaped arrangement instead of the predictable L.
     
  • Use a lamp table in front of your sofa as a tea table instead of a conventional coffee table.
     
  • Bring down the antique dresser or chest in your guest room.  Give it a place of honor in the living room or foyer.
     
  • Use a garden stake for a quick curtain rod...add rings to your drapery panels and slide them on.
     
  • Other interesting curtain rod ideas for your room can be using old golf clubs, tennis racquets, copper plumbing, or PVC pipe, painted with a faux finish.
     
  • Use a horizontal plate rack to create an instant cornice at your window.  Add a scarf to it and then change the plates with the season.
     
  • Add a glass round to a bird bath to create an interesting side table.
     
  • Stack old suitcases to create an instant lamp table.
     
  • Hot glue or sew bullion fringe to the bottom of your ready made draperies to create an instant custom look.

     
  • Frame the unusual, how about a collection of antique door knobs or old silverware.
     
Happy Decorating from the Queen of Decorating!  JoAnne
 
 
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