Easter Decor, Dishes and Desserts

Easter decor, dishes and desserts hops to mind at this time of year.

Easter-decor-dishes-and-desserts

Vintage Etched Tumblers
Jadeite Footed Loop Design Cake Stand
The Pioneer Woman Jade Dinner Plate
Famille Rose Dinner Plates
Easter Yellow Glass Candy Dish by Place & Time
Cabbage Mug by Place & Time
Faux White Tulips
Martha Stewart Stoneware Sculpted Bunny Covered Oval Baker, 9”, Cream
Place & Time Easter 1/5″ x 12′ Green Bunnies Printed Linen Ribbon
24pk Tealight Candle Mint & Eucalyptus/Soft Cotton/Peony & Cherry Blossom
Linden Street Easter Bunny Wood Serving Tray

Carrot Art Giclee Still Life Print

Carrot Art Giclee Still Life Print

To look upon beautiful Easter decor as a work of art is no over eggaggeration of the term.

Easter-decorated-sideboard

Selecting items for show and tell comes with thought.

gold-dragonfly

Sure, a rabbit here and a bunny there is called for, but mostly my choices play to pastels, themes and dishes appropriate for the entire spring into summer season.

Easter-fabric-eggs-grapevine-carrot

Faux picks and bushes in ever lovely shades of pink were recently purchased with the Easter decor centerpiece in mind.

faux-pink-stems-variety

On the Saturday afternoon before Easter Sunday I’ll stroll around the yard gathering assorted fresh greenery stems to fill in the spring bouquet.

Easter decor

Transpac Resin 11.5″ White Easter Floral Bunny Figurines Set of 2

Easter company will love this fresh with full on color and nibbles spring vegetable board from My Moonstone Kitchen.

spring vegetable board

Spring Vegetable Board

 Click on the link below the photo for recipe information.

Sevres Serving Platter

Sevres Serving Platter

roast-pork-loin

Country Living – Photography by John Kernick

Roast Pork Loin with Herb Stuffing

Ingredients

1⁄3 cup kosher salt

1⁄3 cup sugar

2 teaspoon juniper berries

2 teaspoon cardamom pods

2 teaspoon whole peppercorns

1 teaspoon allspice berries

2 bay leaves, lightly crushed

1 (3 ¾ to 4 pound) pork loin roast, trimmed, butterflied, and tied

3 tbsp. butter

3  stalks celery, finely diced

1  small onion, finely diced

3  garlic cloves, finely chopped

2 cups panko breadcrumbs

1 cup chopped fresh parsley

1 tbsp. chopped fresh sage

2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

¼  cup chicken stock

Directions

In a medium pot, bring 2 cups water, salt, sugar, juniper, cardamom, peppercorns, allspice, and bay leaves to a boil.  Stir to dissolve sugar and salt.  Remove from heat and stir in 4 cups cold water.  Set brining liquid aside and let cool to room temperature, 20 to 30 minutes.

Place pork loin in a 2-gallon resealable plastic bag and carefully pour in cooled brining liquid. Seal and refrigerate, 8 to 12 hours.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter until sizzling. Add celery, onion, and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.  Add breadcrumbs, parsley, sage, and thyme, stirring to combine, and cook 1 minute more.  Add chicken stock and toss until breadcrumbs have absorbed all of the liquid.

Remove stuffing from heat and let cool to room temperature, 30 minutes. (Stuffing can be made up to 1 day ahead and refrigerated.  Bring to room temperature before using.)

Preheat oven to 500°F.  Remove pork loin from bag and discard brine; pat meat dry with a paper towel.  On a work surface, untie pork loin so that it lies flat, fat side down.  Spread stuffing mixture atop meat in an even layer. Starting from one of the long sides, roll the pork loin into a tight spiral.  Tie at 1 ½-inch intervals with 12-inch lengths of kitchen twine.

In a roasting pan fitted with a rack, place pork loin fat side up.  Roast 15 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 250°F.  Continue to cook for about 1 hour and 35 minutes, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the pork loin reaches 145°F.

Transfer pork loin to a wire rack to rest for 15 minutes before serving.

-Country Living Magazine

southern-lima-beans

Country Living – Photography by Becky Luigart-Stayner

Instant Pot Lima Beans

Ingredients

1 lb. smoked pork neckbones

1 lb. fresh or frozen lima beans

2  cloves garlic, chopped

1  sprig thyme, plus more leaves for garnish

2 tsp. onion powder

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

Add neckbones and 4 cups water to an electric pressure cooker.  Set to meat/stew setting and cook until meat is fork- tender and bones easily separate from meat, 30 minutes.  Release pressure.

Add lima beans, garlic, thyme, and onion powder to pot.  Season with salt and pepper. Replace lid, switch to soup/broth setting, and cook until beans are tender, 20 minutes.  Release pressure.

Remove lid, switch to sauté, and cook, stirring occasionally, until liquid is reduced, 8 to 10 minutes.  Serve garnished with thyme leaves.

-Country Living Magazine

HONEY ROASTED CARROTS INFUSED WITH HONEY AND GARLIC

Honey Roasted Carrots Infused with Honey and Garlic

Carrots and Easter – a classic pairing if there ever was one.

floral compound butter

Edible-Flower Compound Butter

Ingredients

2 teaspoons green peppercorns

2 teaspoons white peppercorns

2 teaspoons black peppercorns

1 teaspoon pink peppercorns

1 pound butter, softened

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives

1 tablespoon minced shallot

2 teaspoons minced garlic

2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh oregano

Radish flowers

Society garlic flowers

Oyster leaf flowers

Directions

In a coffee grinder or using a mortar and pestle, grind green, white, black, and pink peppercorns until crushed.

Using a medium bowl, beat butter with a mixer at medium-high speed until smooth.  Add peppercorns, chives, shallot, garlic, and oregano.  Beat at medium speed until combined.

Transfer from mixer to parchment paper. Form butter into a log.  Press radish flowers, garlic flowers, and oyster leaf flowers onto log.  Roll in parchment, and twist at both ends. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Store in refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Victoria Magazine

speckled-malted-coconut-cake

Speckled Malted Coconut Cake

red knockout roses

Knock out roses coming into spring view serve vase and creations.

fresh-roses-cake-topper (1) (2)

Not all who decorate cake tops are cake bakers (and not all decoristas are pro photographers).

coconut-cake-speckled-malt-balls-topping

Be it from the supermarket bakery or cake mix box, decorating the top of a  spring or Easter dessert cake with flowers or candies is an easy way to take  desserts to visually pleasing heights.

File this for Mother’s Day brunch ideas.

raspberry-cloud-cake-recipe

Raspberry Cloud Cake

In the style of vintage is my go-to choice of serveware, and this house favorite cake stand in Jadeite fits beautifully with your Easter decor and spring motif.

Jadeite Footed Loop Design Cake Stand

Jadeite Footed Loop Design Cake Stand

Buttercream frosting tinted to a soft yellow topped with edible flowers delivers a simply elegant result.

When decorating dishes and desserts and garnishing beverages with edible flowers you’ll want to pick the flowers early in the morning.

Gently rinse off your gathered flowers with cool water allowing to dry on a paper towel.  Add garnish immediately before serving. If using flowers at a later time you can place them in the refrigerator where they will keep for 2-3 days.

buttermilk-cupcakes-with-swiss-meringue-buttercream

Buttermilk Cupcakes with Swiss Meringue Buttercream

pansies-in-garden

Pansies offer loads of color, plant and prosper rather easily, and make a fantastic visual and flavorful splash when added to salads and spring desserts.

White Chocolate Easter Egg Cupcakes

White Chocolate Easter Egg Cupcakes

Cadbury mini eggs, chocolate almond bark shavings, and an egg carton display elevate these vanilla cupcakes to an Easter dessert eggstravaganza.

fresh eggs

Farm fresh eggs ready to go for Easter decor, dishes and desserts.

Cadbury Bunny Cocktail Napkins

Cadbury Bunny Cocktail Napkins

Super cute cocktail napkins rock the spring into Easter into summer cocktail hour all season long.

Claro Pitcher

Claro Pitcher

Elderflower-Champagne Cocktail

Southern Living – Photography by Hector Manuel Sanchez

Elderflower-Champagne Cocktail

Ingredients

1 bottle chilled brut rosé Champagne or dry sparkling wine

2 cans chilled club soda or sparkling water (such as Pure LaCroix)

1 cup elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain)

Ice

Directions

Pour chilled brut rosé Champagne or dry sparkling wine, chilled club soda or sparkling water, and elderflower liqueur into a large pitcher.  Stir until well combined.  Pour into wine glasses filled with ice.

-Southern Living Magazine

colored-wine-goblets (1)

Whole Housewares Colored Vintage, Mosaic Goblet Drinking Glasses Set of 6
Archie Wine Glasses (Set of 6)

Wild Rose Petal Sangria

Wild Rose Petal Sangria

Thoughtful touches and delicious treats dressed with visually impressive details invite charm to spring get-togethers and Easter celebrations.

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Impressive Kitchen Furnishings, Decor Pieces and Accents

Impressive kitchen furnishings, decor pieces and accents brings us to this feature spotlighting pieces sure to elevate the design and decor of your kitchen.

Santa-letter (1)

Cookies and Santa

After the holiday whirlwind kitchen events of the last few weeks one would think a post about impressive kitchen furnishings, decor pieces and accents would be a bit redundant.

Turns out, the well-appointed kitchen remains the heart and hub of the home; a central gathering place serving a multitude of purposes.

blue-front-door-Christmas-wreath

Southern Living – Photography by Alison Gootee – Styling by Elizabeth Demos

Back in our flipping days, maison de Places In The Home was a holiday happening place holiday eat, drink, and be merry.

Realtors, designers, and home builders folk love to get together for holiday cocktails with a twist of spirited networking.

holiday-gathering-cocktails

At Home In Arkansas – Photography by Rett Peek 

At evening’s end the majority of the house basically remained pre-party perfect, however, based on the state of the kitchen it was indeed the happening holiday party place to mix, mingle and holiday jingle.

Marmont-Hill-After-Party-Clean-up (1)

Marmont Hill After Party Clean-Up

Established fact proves the days gone by design philosophy of the kitchen being for strictly utilitarian purposes, small in size, and decoratively unremarkable is best left in the past.

baking-in-vintage-kitchen

Impressive kitchen furnishings, decor pieces and accents decidedly factor into today’s kitchen design as much as cabinetry, appliance, lighting, flooring and placement choices do.

holiday-wreaths-greenery-kitchen-cabinets

House Beautiful – Photography by Erin Kunkel

Decorating for the holidays reaches far beyond tinsel and trimmings.

dear-Santa-bow

Photo by Joanna Kosinska on Unsplash

What better time than at the gift giving time of year to add impressive kitchen furnishings, decor pieces and accents on your gifts for the holiday decorista Christmas list.

19th Century French Bleached Oak Buffet

19th Century French Bleached Oak Buffet

1820s French Oak Vitrine

1820s French Oak Vitrine

Topping the impressive kitchen furnishings, decor pieces and accents Dear Santa list is this vintage stripped bleached French cabinet in all its gorgeous glory.

antique-bleached-oak-display-cabinet-bookcase-French

Antique Bleached Oak Display Cabinet Bookcase from France

Magnifique!

China Cabinet Rosalind Classic Greige Solid Wood 2 Fretwork Doors

China Cabinet with Fretwork Doors

Display cases, as they are categorized, may be utilized for the intended or as chic options for all things that make a kitchen.

Stately Reclaimed Pine Display

Stately Reclaimed Pine Display

First rule of impressive is to be unique in placement and presentation.

Although a piece may not be so unique, how it is put to use can be.

Antique Vaisselier, French Louis XV Style Fruitwood, 1800's

Antique Vaisselier, French Louis XV Style Fruitwood, 1800’s

Merritt Cabinet

Merritt Cabinet

French_butchers_tables 19th Century French Chateau Rectangular Dining Table, Cherry Wood

French Butchers Block

French Butchers Block

French Kitchen Island

French Kitchen Island

In keeping with the there’s no place like home for the holidays philosophy, I’m featuring striking pieces influenced in Louisiana French-Spanish-European provenance that catch my eye and my heart.

isamar-bachelors-chest

Isamar Bachelors Chest

Three drawer chest of drawers elegantly make the traditionally thought transition from bedroom furniture to kitchen/kitchen dining storage piece.

gorgeous-bow-front-storage-chest

Gorgeous Bow Front Storage Chest

92-Piece 20th-Century Baroque Silver-Plated Flatware

92-Piece 20th-Century Baroque Silver-Plated Flatware

Sideboard Walnut French Dove Tail 2-Door

Sideboard Walnut French Dove Tail 2-Door

Luca Buffet

Luca Buffet

Early 20th Century French Painted Carved Walnut Eight-Light Chandelier

Early 20th Century French Painted Carved Walnut Eight-Light Chandelier

Maxax-5---Light-Unique---Statement-Empire-Chandelier-with-Crystal-Accents

Maxax 5 – Light Unique / Statement Empire Chandelier with Crystal Accents

6 Light Chandelier by Minka Metropolitan

6 Light Chandelier by Minka Metropolitan

Such is the case when juxtaposition, distinctive craftsmanship, provenance, and regional influences beautifully meet and master the characteristic of a space.

Salento 9-Light Vintage Copper Chandelier

Salento 9-Light Vintage Copper Chandelier

Gorgeous just hanging around-

impressive-pendant-lighting

Odyssey 4-Light Pendant Fixture Vintage Brass Finish with Clear Glass
Gold Stainless Steel Single Pendant Lighting With Clear Hanging Crystals
Antique Silver 6-Light Rectangular Kitchen Island Lighting
Peyton 2 Light Pendant in Matte Black + Chrome
Kichler Lighting Opal 12 inch 2-Light Pendant Character Bronze with Opal Glass
Hudson Valley Burdett 4-light Pendant
Hinkley Lighting Nautique 18″ Wide Mixed Metal Single Pendant
Antique White 4-Light Birdcage Lantern Pendant

lamps-on-counter-ranch-kitchen

Tiffany Farha Design

Kitchen countertop counterparts:

lamps-for-kitchen-countertop

Visual Comfort Totie Table Lamp by Thomas O’Brien
H.E. Rainaud Antique Tiffany Style 6 Slag Glass Lamp
Zain Table Lamp, Set of 2
Wyman 16″ Crystal Ball/Metal LED Table Lamp, Clear by JONATHAN Y
Baroque Accent Table Lamp

villa-toscana-arm-chair

Bernhardt Villa Toscana Arm Chair

Detail comes home in this Italian Baroque Revival carved dining table.

Italian Baroque Revival Carved Wood Round Dining Table

Italian Baroque Revival Carved Wood Dining Table

French-style-dining-tables

Grand French Country Oval Dining Table

For the flow and the French of it all, may I present these decorative kitchen accents and accessories to accent the look.

Pair-of-Painted-and-Upholstered-Louis-XVI-Style-Open-Arm-Fauteuils

19th Century Pair of Painted and Upholstered Louis XVI Style Open Arm Fauteuils

Handcarved French Rush Dining Chairs S/4

Handcarved French Rush Dining Chairs S/4

Hooker Furniture Castella Wood Back Arm Chair

Hooker Furniture Castella Wood Back Arm Chair

lagniappe-text

19th Century French Louis XVI Style Painted and Giltwood Mirror

19th Century French Louis XVI Style Painted and Giltwood Mirror

Some may opine my needle appears stuck on antiques and vintage accents.

Long my preferred go-to choice, I find the charm and character quotient appeals to my desire to incorporate unique pieces in with new traditional promotes conversation and balances the visual points of interest of a space.

Sheraton Giltwood Mirror, c.1830

Sheraton Giltwood Mirror, c.1830

Burnished Gold Cast Iron Art Rococo Footed Tray

Burnished Gold Cast Iron Art Rococo Footed Tray

Consider using architectural salvage pieces in your kitchen decor.

Faithful followers of Places In The Home know all too well my fascination with using fireplace covers/firebacks as decorative kitchen wall accents.

vintage-fireplace-back

Antique Architectural Salvage Cast Iron Fireplace Cover

Porcelain lemon topiary is a current accent obsession.

Mama Places In The Home had one ions ago, and goodness only knows where it finally landed in the great remodel and purge of years back.

MIA: Missing Impressive Accent

lemon-topiary

Victorian Era Boston Bond Bread Oak Store Display Case

Victorian Era Boston Bond Bread Oak Store Display Case

Louis XV Style Carved Walnut Wall Rack

Louis XV Style Carved Walnut Wall Rack

18th Century Oak Boiserie Panel

English 19th Century Carved Wooden Fragment with Fruits and Flower Garland
18th Century Oak Boiserie Panel

Grey Crackled Ceramic Vase

terracotta-stone-vases-containers

Door knockers easily make the transition from exterior door ornament to singular focal point cabinet pull or even an excellent choice of wall decor.

door-knocker-cabinet-pulls

open-hand-cabinet-pull

Dark Brown Metal Hand Pull

Turns out the decision to kill a little time before an appointment by dropping by one of my favorite vintage goods haunts was a splendid one indeed.

boy-reading-book-leg-crossed-garden-statue-2

Garden statue then, cookbook bookend now.

Kensington Hill Taryn Vintage Style Table Clock

Kensington Hill Taryn Vintage Style Table Clock

Antique Male Oil Painting

Antique Male Oil Painting

AELS Vintage Wall Clock

AELS Vintage Wall Clock

Implementing art into your kitchen decor elevates the overall aesthetic.

kitchen-art-ideas

Housatonic Valley #98 Vintage Framed Print
Vintage French La Mode Illustree Framed Art
Young Oak Trees #222  Vintage Framed Wall Art Painting
Florentine Framed Print
Antique Cast Iron Classical Lady Head Architectural
Edith #215 Vintage Framed Wall Art

Lagniappe is defined as something given as a bonus or extra gift, and is present in impressive kitchen furnishings, décor pieces and accents replete with distinctive detail, prominence, and beauty.

 Love your style!

 

 

 

This post contains affiliate links.  If you click on one of the product links I have an affiliate relationship with and make a purchase from the retailer, I receive a commission from the sale.

It’s The Dog Days of Summer

Today’s Fetching Friday places the late summer spotlight on the dog days of summer in keeping with August 26th being National Dog Day.

fetching-definiton

bergère-chair-Westie-dog

The Cottage Journal- Photography by Stephanie Welbourne Steele

Sweet thought provoking quotes, seasonal scenes in garden light and summer night silhouettes, and photos of pretty little pooches all in a scroll keep the dog days of summer tolerable.

stone-steps-garden-Photographer-Tracey-Ayton

House & Home – Photography by Tracey Ayton

Light of a late summer afternoon paired with garden blooms in perfect palette and placement gives visitors a visually impressive summer place to admire nature at its colorful best.

Melanie-Turner-green-cabinets-home-bar

Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles

Pluto-Goofy

Pinterest

Making memories for kids of all ages through the decades of amusement in the good old dog days of summer.

Hillary-Duff-pink-front-doors

Better Homes & Gardens

red-Dutch-door-dog

 The Design Atelier

“There’s just something about dogs that makes you feel good.
You come home, they’re thrilled to see you.
They’re good for the ego.”

— Janet Schnellman

dogs-in-garden

Scott Shrader Exterior Design

Ralph Waldo Emerson authors a house favorite of Places In The Home.

I will build upon Mr. Emerson’s words that indeed the ornament of a house and garden is the friends and the furry friends who frequent it.

outdoor-dining-table-in-garden-Photographer-André-Rider

House & Home- Photography by Andre Rider 

“Everything good, everything magical, happens
between the months of June and August.”

—Jenny Han, The Summer I Turned Pretty

ceramic black-and-white-tilework

Veranda

Delicious details.

dog days of summer

“Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability.”

—Sam Keen

summer-hammock-over-pond

Photo by Mael Balland on Unsplash

“Oh, the summer night, has a smile of light, and she
sits on a sapphire throne.”

—Bryan Procter

ferris-wheel-at-night

Photo by Matthew Daniels on Unsplash

Enjoy your Friday, your summer, and your weekend.

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Fetching Friday: About the House

Today’s Fetching Friday features lovely spaces and places about the house.

fetching-definition

Gorgeous comes home in the most splendid and stunning of ways.

Early Branch Farm House

Early Branch Farm-Robert M. Cain Architect

Natural settings resplendent in a peaceful easy feeling welcome cozy home.

If you could bottle this feeling it would be the elixir sure to cure the world’s ails.

sunny-kitchen-windows-Jessica-Helgerson-Interior- Design (1)

Jessica Helgerson Interior

“Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful;
they are sunshine, food and medicine for the soul.”

—Luther Burbank

coastal-accent-cabinet-Robbie-Caponetto (1)

Better Homes & Gardens – Photo by Robbie Caponetto

copper console table home bar

Architectural Digest

Antique pieces about the house never fail to impress the space they grace.

antique-walnut-3-drawer-marble-top-chest

Caroline Brackett Studio of Design

Antiques possess the quality of adaptability.

sterling baby cups filled with tea roses

Victoria Magazine

Pieces complement rather than clash with the central design style, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

bed-linens-floral-photo-Rachel-Whiting

House & Garden – Photo by Rachel Whiting

“Let yourself be silently drawn by the strange pull
of what you really love.
It will not lead you astray.”

― Rumi

bathroom-powder-room-Rebecca-James-Studio

1stDibs – Rebecca James Studio – Photography by Richard Gooding

Searching for tips, tricks, and general cucumber information, I ran across a line or two of pickle humor and thought it sweet and dilliciously delightful.

about the house

House & Garden – Photo by Paul Massey

Good thing I’m not on the recipe hunt for a summer corn casserole.

Talk about corny jokes.

jarring-homemade-pickles

Photo by Reka Biro-Horvath on Unsplash

Call this my contribution to the Friday funnies.

Cucumbers hate becoming pickles.
For them, it’s a jarring experience.

Hope your Friday is filled with beauty and laughter.

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Dorm Room Decorating Ideas

Newsflash: gone are the days of basic and boring dorm room decorating ideas and décor choices.

home-sweet-dorm-mat

These dorm room decorating ideas feature tasteful and dashing furnishings, accents and accessories that come together to transform an otherwise nondescript space into a chic oasis of comfort and personal style.

Double Sided 3 Panel Vintage Flowers Canvas Room Divider

Double Sided 3 Panel Vintage Flowers Canvas Room Divider

Square footage and the actual size of the space you have to work with rule the choices made.
 

I love the idea of using a room divider or screen as a headboard. I also love stylish options affording one a bit of privacy.

6 ft. Printed 3-Panel Room Divider

6 ft. Printed 3-Panel Room Divider

Curated pizzazz is easily accomplished by simply placing the divider or screen behind the head of the bed.

Genevra Upholstered Panel Headboard

Traditional options may better suit the area of the space and contribute a better result to the overall style presence you’re going for. 

Rainha Cushion Tufted College Headboard - Velvet Crush

Rainha Cushion Tufted College Headboard – Velvet Crush

Go bananas and enjoy the express yourself process of taking an empty plain space and making it into a fabulously handsome retreat. 

Standard Microfiber Reversible Banana Print Comforter Sham

Standard Microfiber Reversible Banana Print Comforter Sham

Truly Soft Pleated Blush Twin XL Comforter Set

Truly Soft Pleated Blush Twin XL Comforter Set

Antique Medallion Lightweight Textured Woven Jacquard Cotton Blend Bedspread Set

Antique Medallion Lightweight Textured Woven Jacquard Bedspread Set

Prints and patterns, textures and weaves, and trending colors and thread counts make a stylish and comfortable bed.  

Makeup 250 Thread Count 100% Cotton 2-Pc. Sheet Set, Twin,

Makeup 250 Thread Count 100% Cotton 2-Pc. Sheet Set, Twin

white-chenille-medallion-quilt-set

Cozy up to the comforts of dorm room accessories that turn in and turn down a striking look. 

Simply Clean Reversible Bed in a Bag - Serta

Simply Clean Reversible Bed in a Bag – Serta

Printed Cotton Percale Sheet Set, Twin

Printed Cotton Percale Sheet Set, Twin

chunky-comfy-cozy-knit-blanket

I’ve got one word for you when it comes to dorm sweet dorm…

cozy-black-white

Madison Park Chunky Double Knit Throw Blanket

Madison Park Chunky Double Knit Throw Blanket

Bee & Willow™ Cable Knit Reversible Throw Blanket in Heather Grey

Bee & Willow™ Cable Knit Reversible Throw Blanket in Heather Grey

My dorm and townhouse roomies and I kept close company with throws and blankets.  The degree of cozy rises to a most comfortable level making for a happy dorm-apartment-condo-townhouse environment. 

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Collapsible Fabric Cube Storage Bins

Storage is one hot commodity in the dorm room decorating ideas scheme of storing things.

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Coiled Rope Storage Basket 

You’ve got stuff, and you need stylish storage options for housing your stuff. 

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First rule of a functioning dorm room is you’ve got to have room. 

storage-solutions-ideas-wire-baskets

Twisted Paper Rope Basket Twisted Paper Rope Basket

Super cute accents and accessories don’t have to be super costly.

gingham-fabric-storage-cube (1)

Gingham Storage Cube

Storage cubes comes in on-trend colors and get the job done in style.

Assorted Colors Trunks Set of 3 Vintage Style Storage w/ Gold Handles & Locks

Assorted Colors Trunks Set of 3 Vintage Style Storage w/ Gold Handles & Locks

Household Essentials Small KD Chest in Seagrass Natural

Household Essentials Small KD Chest in Seagrass Natural

French Industrial Silver Metal Storage Trunk

French Industrial Silver Metal Storage Trunk

The designs, sizes and affordable price points of these nightstand and accent tables personify smart and stylish dorm room décor ideas. 

Vasagle Nightstand, Bedside Table, End Table with Drawer

Vasagle Nightstand, Bedside Table, End Table with Drawer

2-Tier Metal Round End Table with Removable Tray

2-Tier Metal Round End Table with Removable Tray

Adeptus Solid Wood 6 Drawer Roll Cart

Adeptus Solid Wood 6 Drawer Roll Cart

Costway-3-Drawer-Fabric-Dresser-Storage-Tower-Nightstand-Sturdy-Steel-Frame-Closet

3 Drawer Fabric Dresser Storage Tower Nightstand

Color, texture, and pattern makes the grade A+ for dorm room decorating ideas.

Intelligent Designs Charvi Chenille Square Floor Pillow
 
 
Velvet Segmented Bean Bag Chair
Great option for vanity seating or a trio in complementing colors for a bedside grouping. 
 
Bonnie-Vanity-Flower-Stool
 
 
 
Sherpa Bean Bag

Carson Carrington Islingby Modern Geometric Indoor Area Rug

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from-the-desk-of-accessories-assorted


Decorative vases, plates, and planters make excellent holders for desk accessories, gadgets or make-up brushes. 

gold-lady-resin-planter

gold-elephant-planter

Indoor And Outdoor Resin Head Planter

Indoor And Outdoor Resin Head Planter

One is good, but a pair becomes a good looking set of bookends. 

peace-sign-decor

Peace Sign Decor

college-dorm-roommates-poster-personalized

Dorm Room “And They Were Roommates” Poster

Love this candle (exercise caution when lighting candles and make sure to extinguish before leaving your dorm room or going to bed). 

The mom in me is coming out. 

Rising Summit Candle

Rising Summit Candle

 
White 8-Cube Organizer

White 8-Cube Organizer

Mixed Material 3 Shelf Bookcase

Mixed Material 3 Shelf Bookcase

Zaphire-Wall-Sconce

Novelty lighting puts a new twist on a dorm room essential. 

Golden LED Rabbit Lamp

Golden LED Rabbit Lamp

Flamingo-Gold-_26-White-Table-Lamp

Gold & White Flamingo Table Lamp

Soft lighting sets a cozy and inviting scene and is a fun way to reflect your personal style. 

clam shell lamp Mermaid Shell with Color Changing Pearl Lamp

Industrial Desk Lamp with USB and AC Power Outlet

Industrial Desk Lamp with USB and AC Power Outlet

Table, desk, string, and just fun lighting options shine a little light on the higher education study and down time situation.

mini-ceramic-table-lamp

Mini Ceramic Globe Table Lamp, Black

 Glass Mushroom Lamp, Brown Tortoise, Glossy FinishGlass Mushroom Lamp, Brown Tortoise, Glossy Finish

Gooseneck LED Clip Lamp

Gooseneck LED Clip Lamp

Retro darling and just plain fun, the Lava lamp is almost required lighting  in the dorm room environment.

blush-tortoise-lava-lamps

Lava Lamps

Yes, I know cellphones serve the clock/alarm needs of today, but a wall clock, especially one this cute, still has its place in dorm room décor. 

red wall clock

Infinity Instruments Wall Clock

Ions ago when I was at LSU in the dorm my roommate and I used round 3 gallon ice cream containers you could get for free at your local Baskins-Robbins for wastebaskets. 

Oval Makati Trash Can

Oval Makati Trash Can

DIY project days gone by consisted of discontinued wallpaper rolls, glue, decorista determination, and a little help from our friends Ernest and Julio Gallo.

Round Step Trash Can
 
 
dark-copper--waste-basket-trash-can
Bronze Metallic Mezzo Swing-Lid Trash Can
 
wood-grain-waste-basket
Home Expressions 6pc Washcloth Set1

 6pc Washcloth Sets

Lexington 3-Tier Rolling Cart by Simply Tidy™ Lexington 3-Tier Rolling Cart by Simply Tidy™ in Assorted Colors

Clean-bath-mat
Room Essentials Clean Bath Mat

Dearfoams 2pc Printed Faux Fur Buffalo Plaid Rug
 
cute-dorm-bath-mat-pink-strawberries

Room Essentials Strawberries Bath Mat

 
Keurig-Oasis-single-cup-coffee-maker

Keurig K-Mini Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Cup of Happy Mug

Cup of Happy Mug

light-blue-porcelain-cup-gold-handle

H & M

tiger coffee mug

students-walking-iced-coffee

How we love and need our coffee- the breakfast, lunch and dinner of college champions. 

Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee Maker with 22oz Reusable Tumbler and Coffee Filter

Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee Maker with 22oz Reusable Tumbler and Coffee Filter

Here’s hoping one or more of these dorm room decorating ideas offers decorative inspiration for your back-to-college dorm room design and décor.

Love your style!
 

Blooming Good Spring Finds

Signs of blooming good spring finds have arrived.

time for spring

Daylight savings time begins this weekend.

Pollen: the amber yellow tint beginning to cover the outdoor world.

Pretty little things for home, lawn and garden tickling your spring fancy.

Screen saver image switched out to reflect spring’s in full hydrangea blooms beauty.

spring-2021-computer-screen-image

This back in stock and delivered to the door just in time for the season willow cloche is marked gorgeous for a garden decoration or tabletop accent.

home depot order delivery confirmation

22 in. H Willow Cloche Protector

22 in. H Willow Cloche Protector

willow-cloche-tulips

So Fine by Electric Light Orchestra providing spring (and summer) hum and buzz sweet inspiration.

♫ People walking hand in hand,
Everybody’s singing to the band
I want to be where the stars shine bright
And hear sweet music on a summer night ♫

fresh-Louisiana-strawberries-spring-2021

There’s nothing quite so delicious as the first bowl of extra large Louisiana strawberries to kick off the spring tasting season.

fresh spring asparagus

Well, perhaps a fresh bunch of garden asparagus.

the seasons of Louisiana

The seasons of Louisiana vary from minute to hour to week.

Ice storm damage is throwing our planting into wait and see mode, but the warm days signal planting and patio time is near.

Nature awakens in color and bloom to remind us dark and barren times never last forever.

Burchett Outdoor Acacia Wood Club Chairs with Cushions (Set of 2) by Christopher Knight Home

The Burchett Outdoor Acacia Wood 4 Seater Chat Set with Cushions by Christopher Knight Home sold out faster than you can say Oprah Winfrey’s palace patio sit-down with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, but here’s two other options from the line to pretty up your patio, porch or perch.

Linwood Outdoor Acacia Wood Club Chair with Wicker Accents (Set of 2) by Christopher Knight Home

Linwood Outdoor Acacia Wood Club Chair with Wicker Accents

“Peter Brady” is a mover and a shaker in the home furnishings business, and the line’s options offer a good look at a good price.

Aston Outdoor Modern Acacia Cushioned Club Chairs (Set of 2)

Aston Outdoor Modern Acacia Cushioned Club Chairs (Set of 2)

Flowers infuse color into our homes with all of the beauty and scents of the spring season.

Blooming Good Spring Finds

Muscari

“Anything is possible with sunshine and a little pink”

– Lilly Pulitzer

time for spring

Ranunculus

Harsh late winter storms combined with multiple days and nights of arctic freezing temperatures zapped the life out of many of my plants, buds and blooms- most notably the hydrangeas I’ve babied for the last three seasons.

new-hydrangeas

A jaunt to the big box store garden center will replace what was.

I believe I’ll add a couple of packs of dusty miller and begonias to the mix for filler and balance.

dusty-miller-begonias

Spring flowers come in many shapes and forms.

Better Homes and Gardens Outdoor 15in Metal White Flower Wall Art

Better Homes and Gardens Outdoor 15in Metal White Flower Wall Art

Jordan Manufacturing Lessandra Outdoor Square Toss Pillows Rosewood Set of 2

Jordan Manufacturing Lessandra Outdoor Square Toss Pillows Rosewood Set of 2

Pressed flower notecards, set of 6 assorted cards, blank notecards

Pressed Flower Blank Notecards, set of 6 Assorted 

Much to my surprise and joy I’ve proven to myself no formal florist skills are needed to create a seasonal floral arrangement.

fresh-flower-bouquet

Blooms and greens from my lawn and garden or the clearance buckets perched in a local grocery store floral department display become the stars of the window seal or tabletop spring flower show.

spring flowers in pitcher

Better Homes & Gardens

Keeping it simple is the key to DIY flower arranging.

green-clippings-in-antique-rose-bowl (1)

It might be a dollar store glass container, vintage Mason jar, ironstone creamer pitcher, the antique rose bowl Dave the Builder gifted me with years ago, or these eye catching-soon to be in my buy now pickup later cart- pretty in pink vases that becomes the vessel of choice.

pink vases for spring

The point is whatever you’ve got and whatever suits your floral arrangement fancy is perfect.

Fill vase with tepid water, add one teaspoon of vodka and one teaspoon granulated sugar.

Tepid water allows for quicker water absorption, and the vodka and sugar combination delays wilting.

Drop a copper penny in to the vase to help deter the growth of fungus or bacteria.

floral arrangement tips

Although the decorative post courier mailbox wall accent is not new to the home decor accent market, its popularity is ongoing.

Give it the wall pocket effect and fill it to the brim with your favorite spring floral and greenery stems.

Post Courier Mailbox Wall Accent by Ashland®

You know it’s spring finds time by the scents and sights of spring in full bloom.

I do love a season that shows out.

Darleen hydrangea in blue (1)

Softening the Style: Rustic Industrial Style

A distinct modification to the hard edge of industrial style is afoot- a reinterpretation best described as rustic industrial style.

Change is constant, and the world of design and decor is not exempt from changes or adaptions.

Rustic is often assigned to several different design styles, casting a broad net over the design application.

Industrial style is not a personal favorite, however, the present softening of hard edges in favor of tipping the scales ever so slightly towards a new traditional modern farmhouse look has the decorative oomph to win me over.

Back in the early 1980s, Dave the Builder became enamored with the modern meets contemporary design style that was all the rage.

Glass.

Chrome.

Metal color palette.

Dave the Builder was intrigued, and I was perplexed.

We met in the middle of are you kidding me and we’ll give it whirl.

We remodeled the living room/dining room combination to suit the style, and when completed we ended up with a space that was stark, cold, and characterless.

I absolutely hated the look.

Thank the design and decor gods Dave hated it to.

Robert Dame DesignsRobert Dame Designs – Thompson Custom Homes

Balance plays a pivotal role in the completed look of any space.

The impact of a primary design style is often enhanced by a supporting decorating style.

Michael-Dawkins-Home

Michael Dawkins Home

Now, I know I haven’t discovered something new, nor am I introducing an on trend design and decor phenomenon.

What I am drawing attention to is how design styles and decor tastes can, and do, evolve.

We embrace the base style elements, adding to and subtracting from in order to perfect and keep visual relevancy.

Rustic industrial style blurs the hard lines by emphasizing soft edges.

Michael-Dawkins-Home1Michael Dawkins Home

Like a uncorked bottle of wine, I liken the evolution of rustic industrial style to allowing a bottle of wine time to breathe.

More expressive and fully matured.

Terri Ricci Interiors

Terri Ricci Interiors

A little background for clarity:

The concept of industrial style decor gleans influence from the modern warehouse-loft-factory elements of design.

rustic-wood-dining-chairs

Southern Living Magazine

With rustic origins relating to vintage wares, industrial style typifies a commercial appeal through the incorporation of wood and metal into the interior design and decor.

Rustic Industrial Style

 Lori Smyth Design

The phrase pop of color is rooted in the lexicon of interior design and interior decorating, however, not all color palettes necessarily reflect the broad brush stroke of what we commonly consider color.

mix-and-match-dining-room-01 Magdalena Keck Interior Design

Natural in color, texture, pattern and appeal, neutral colors dominate the rustic industrial style palette.

Urban Archaeology

Urban Archaeology

Where the classic color combination of black and white qualifies as the height of color perfection in some instances, a neutral color palette is a bold color choice in others.

mark.cunningham.inc.portfolio.interiors.kitchen.dining.breakfast.room

Mark Cunningham Inc.

Add in a mix of metals and the industrial style decor color palette is born.

metal-top-dining-table

Industrial to Farm Dining Table

This zinc plated metal and cedar base farm dining table by SDS Designs captures two hot on trend looks- modern farmhouse and industrial style decor.

Farm+Dining+Table

Farm Dining Table by SDS Designs

You’ll notice more and more how the lines between these particular design and decor styles give life to rustic industrial style.

Industrial-style-kitchen-dark-cabinets Holder Design Associates 

Lilian Dining Chair

Lilian Dining Chair- Set of 4

office-black-chalkboard-walls-desk-under-window-double-metal-doors

WB Builders

Carbon Loft Tilton 24-in Rustic Gunmetal Bar Stool

Carbon Loft Tilton 24-in Rustic Gunmetal Bar Stool

farmhouse kitchen South Beach Exquisite House 2id Interiors

Napa Valley Farmhouse-den-Carreiro Builders

Carreiro Builders

kitchen-with-hand-poured-concrete-countertops

 Anthony Wilder

Sleek pendants and statement chandeliers visually qualify as a design tour de force.

rustic light fixtures

Sadie Pendant  ||  1-light Oxidized Nickel Pendant  ||  Bartlett Small Pendant in French White  ||  Isabel 1-Light Pendant in Colonial Blue Finish 
Modern Haning Lighting Fixture Golden Ceilling Light  ||  1-light Oxidized Brass Pendant  ||  Uttermost Pontoise 1-light Distressed Ivory Metal Mini Pendant  ||  Quoizel Amherst Mottled Cocoa 3-light Pendant

wesley.wayne.interiors

Wesley-Wayne Interiors

Homefare Metal Door Light Oak Display CabinetHomefare Metal Door Light Oak Display Cabinet

green-and-black-living-room-industrial-black-metal-casement-bar-cabinet

 Von Fitz Design

vidaXL Coffee Table Black 25.6"x25.6"x11.8" Solid Mango Wood

vidaXL Coffee Table Black Solid Mango Wood

Pulling home decor accents and accessories from other design styles avoids, or at least greatly diminishes, the risk of the space becoming locked into the hard line look of a particular decorating style.

New Orleans 1985 Vintage Map Canvas Art PrintNew Orleans 1985 Vintage Map Canvas Art Print

Uttermost Yerevan Wood Leg Lamp

Uttermost Yerevan Wood Leg Lamp

Ancient Medallion Giclee Canvas Art PrintAncient Medallion Giclee Canvas Art Print

Uttermost Lev Gold Metal Wall Decor

Uttermost Lev Gold Metal Wall Decor

Industrial-kitchen-New-York-loft

TOLA Architecture

Industrial-lighting-ideas

Bremerton 4L Bronze Wood Cage Linear Chandelier Island Pendant Light

Mercana Leighton I 15 x 20 Gold Toned Metal Spherical Pendant Light

Industrial Hanging Wired Pendant Light 

Carbon Loft Enstad 12-inch Fired Bronze Bowl 1-light Pendant

Carbon Loft Hoesl 14.5-inch Metal Sphere 1-light Pendant

Luxury Industrial Chandelier with Rustic StyleLuxury Industrial Chandelier with Rustic Style

black-display-cabinet-with-shelving-industrial-Seth-Caplan-AD

Architectural Digest

My personal choice for an in the style for replicating the very stylish storage solution option in the above image.

Ventana Glass Display Cabinet

Ventana Glass Display Cabinet

kitchen-island-corbels

The Working Kitchen

Cypress Industrial Adjustable Metal Barstool in Silver Brushed Gray with Brown Wood Seat

Cypress Industrial Adjustable Metal Barstool 

It’s quite surprising how the mixing of antiques or in the style of antiques pieces with today’s modern styles works a room to its visual advantage.

La Grange Hostyn Kitchen Island

La Grange Hostyn Kitchen Island

Art Leon Counter Height Metal Barstools with Eiffel Legs(Set of 2)

Art Leon Counter Height Metal Barstools with Eiffel Legs(Set of 2)

Staying true to one particular decor style proves a comfort zone of sorts, while the constant discovery of what accents and accessories best fit your decorative style portfolio results in a satisfying experience.

When the winds of design and decor change and blow inspiration your way, step out of the box and try a new decor style.

The result may beautifully surprise you.

Touches and Hints of Fall At Home Preview

The intention of this touches and hints of fall at home preview is to bring about that cozy-colorful-bountiful-nature inspired-pumpkin spiced-apple appealing feeling of fall at home.

fall-at-home-preview

Those of us who absolutely love the fall-autumn season revel in the fall at home preview planning and prepping.

fall-velvet-pumpkin-in-basket-Werner-Straube

Better Homes & Gardens – Photo by Werner Straube

Seasonal décor pretties.

Rich warm colors and hues on parade.

Crisp days into evening.

Pumpkin everything.

Cozy times.

fall-sweet-fall-throw-pillow

Actual signs of fall may not be obvious in your neck of the woods (or skipped you all together i.e. 101°F in Denver one day, 33°F the next), but the excitement of a fall-autumn arrival is building.

Fall at home preview posts on the pages of food and shelter magazines, recipe and home decor blogs, and the social media platforms of choice confirm the anticipation.

pumpkins-sign

“Fall has always been my favorite season.
The time when everything bursts with
its last beauty, as if nature had been saving
up all year for the grand finale.”

—Lauren DeStefano

They say good things come to those who wait.

On that logic I liken fall’s tease and eventual arrival to the pot of harvest gold at the end of summer’s scorching rainbow.

A sure sign the beauty of fall is upon us.

free-printable-landscape-with-plaid-print

Ella Claire & Co. gifts this lovely free printable vintage landscape for fall framing and decorating.

Sending a big thank you to creative friends and blogs bearing gifts.

I have a bronze gold frame picked out to frame the print in, and am leaning toward placing it on a small decorative easel.

Click on the link to visit this wonderful blog and print your copy- Ella Clair & Co. 

Wrensted Interiors LLC

Wrensted Interiors LLC

Natural touches such as seasonal foliage picked from your yard or garden and housed in rustic crocks, vintage silver pieces, or basic glass jars bring the beauty of fall to a tabletop or vignette near you.

Modern Brown Ceramic VaseModern Brown Ceramic Vase – Threshold™ designed with Studio McGee

fall-vase-brown

console-table-fall-decor

Pinterest

Inspiration, imagination, creativity, and a keen eye are responsible for many a stunning decorative display.

Antique Large German Brown Glazed Stoneware Pottery Double Handle Crock Vase

Antique Large German Brown Glazed Stoneware Pottery Double Handle Crock

As one who always includes setting and staying within budget when selecting, suggesting, and sourcing home décor accents and accessories for clients as well as myself, I love the endless possibilities afforded by decorating with items found at home, in nature (the best arts & crafts store going!), farmers markets, and the flower and produce departments of local grocery stores.

cabbage-dishes-in-hutch-photo-John-Granen

Better Homes & Gardens – Photo by John Granen

“Autumn is the season to find contentment at home
by paying attention to what we already have.”

—Unknown

bag-Gala-apples

There’s no need to spend an exorbitant amount of money in order to achieve a striking result.

Fall Harvest Wooden Decorative BowlFall Harvest Wooden Decorative Bowl

An arrangement of fresh seasonal fruits placed in a wooden bowl or on a plate or platter sets a simple yet elegant display.

Loropetalum

I’m convinced the five senses dance a delightful waltz to an autumnal melody.

bella notte linens

Bella Notte Linens

Layers of warm and cozy linens wrapped in your favorite fall color, texture, pattern, and scent invite a fall into comfort feeling.

Functionality has never looked, felt or smelled so inviting.

Fall Scented Linen Spray

Ingredients

½ cup water

½ cup vodka

8-10 drops fall scented essential oil(s)

Directions

Mix water and vodka together in a clean spray bottle.

Add essential oil or combination of oils to mixture, swirling to blend.

Essential oil scents and combinations to consider:

Sweet orange, clove bud and cinnamon bark.

Pumpkin pie.

Brown sugar, apple pie and nutmeg.

Wood spice.

Sweet tangerine.

Cedarwood.

foodiesfeed.com_woman-holding-fresh-apples

Foodiesfeed

When apples and cinnamon enter the mix or the mixing bowl, the scent and the taste of fall follows.

Brown Wood Look Plate Brown Wood Look Plate

This brown wood plate offers the look of wood with the ease of melamine.

Design details include a realistic faux wood grain pattern paired with the extra bonus of being safe for food use.

apples-leaves-acorns-candle-Sköna hem

Sköna hem -Pinterest

Southerners take fall any way we can get it since we really don’t get much of it in the first place.

butcher block

D Magazine – Photography by Nathan Schroder

It’s a fact of life in Louisiana when the temps fall below 70°F you can hear the collective clang of gumbo pots making their way from cupboard to stove top in true c’est si bon fashion.

copper bowls stacked

Overstock

When fall rolls around you can find me spending most late afternoons into evening sitting on the porch taking it all in.

I love spending time in the kitchen developing fall recipes, but you can’t be in two places at once.

Playing to that logic, simple seasonal dishes such as mustard greens and buttermilk cornbread top the dinner menu on crisp fall nights.

mustard-greens-in-pot

Dave the Builder’s mother held firm the taste of a Louisiana sweet potato is not at its flavor zenith until after the first frost.

Louisiana-sweet-potatoes-dry-pinto-beans

The first frost of fall is a ways off yet, however, we cook, bake, and candied sweet potatoes on.

Leaf Wooden Spoon

Leaf Wooden Spoon

Isn’t it funny how you assign a season to particular foods and flavors?

Gumbo.

Cinnamon roll candied yams.

Pecan pie made with Louisiana pecans and pure cane syrup.

Apple nut cake.

apple-pecan-walnut-cake

We’ll cook it, bake it, and eat it any time of year, but it taste so much better in the fall.

faux-apples-pears-moss-wreath-fall

Fall ushers in thoughts of DIY projects for door, porch, mantel, and seal.

DIY pumpkin lanterns

Shine a light on fall with these DIY Pumpkin Lanterns from designlovefest.

fall-is-my-favorite-color-blog

When the Canadian snowbird was in school, yours truly pulled room mother duty every year kindergarten-8th grade.

Loved it!fall-bouquet-ribbon

I was in my element decorating for the teachers appreciation gala, fall festival and Halloween carnival extravaganza.

Included in my bag of decorating tricks was the idea of using faux fall flower bouquets for everything from tabletop decorations to gift favors.

fall bouquet 1

Wrapping each bouquet in inexpensive craft or tissue paper tied with ribbon and raffia in assorted seasonal colors and textures took the presentation from faux to fabulous.

For extra fall scented goodness tuck a couple of cinnamon sticks in with the bouquet.

It’s all in the details.

fall-colors-throw-pillows

Embellishing an inexpensive throw pillow(s) rich in fall color with decorative trim(s) creates a custom decor piece.

fall trim

autumn-decor-Virginia-based designer Janie Molster Elle Decor

Elle Decor 

I saw this idea of draping faux fur throws over the back of dining chairs in a fall decorating feature in Elle Decor, and quickly filed it under F for faux fur for fall at home preview.

Fall At Home Preview

A seasonal accent here and a seasonal accessory there layers house and home with touches and hints of the season.

Add a decorative throw or pillow to an existing piece and you instantly create a seasonal update though color, texture, and/or pattern.

‘Tis the season for feathering one’s nest with touches and hints of the season through décor additions and updates inspired by the best features of the season.

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