Cheap Design Tricks: What is Blik and More!

Cheap Wallpaper Trick: I have really been struggling with my bathroom. Given all the non-fun things you have to do in a bathroom and the fact that you don't spend much time in there anyways, I like my bathrooms fun and a little adventurous. You know those restaurants where the bathroom is so randomly unexpected and amazing that you come back to the table and tell all your friends about it? Well that's the effect I am looking for. I wanted to do a really fun wallpaper but it looks complicated so another cheaper option might be What is Blik decals. I love the fact that they're easy to apply but they don't look like some kid stuck stickers on the wall. I like these Iron Vine ones on the left and they have everything from a Mario Brothers scene to airplanes and flowers, to Keith Herring art and polka dots:)
A living room for under $1500: Remember how I asked my friend Claire (who was recently recognized as an influential design blogger by Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles Magazine) to make a great living room for me with my gray, purple, and gold inspiration?! Well this is what she designed! I can get this whole look for under $1500! So excited she made that happen:) My favorite piece is that gold lamp, and the reading nook is so thoughtful!! She told me the most cost effective way to change the look of my home is through wall art, curtains, pillows, rugs and lighting. No need to buy all new stuff, just build off the basics!

Enlisting Help from My Superstar friends

Day 2 in Chicago: Now that I found my place, I have a lot of time on my hands. I did two awesome things while here...First, I had a lovely lunch with my great aunt and distant cousins. I also asked my professional designer friend Claire who is quoted in this month's Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles Magazine to help me design a living room based on this inspiration board she designed. Isn't she talented?!?! It's perfect for my mood right now. Let me know what you think!! Also, to all my bschool friends who are wondering how to design your new apartment, hire her to help you out before she becomes the next Nate Berkus!!

Do it Yourself Designing!

Good news!! I just found my Chicago apartment. The building is AMAZING. There's a fire pit next to the pool and hot tub, which is to the right of the poolside cabanas. Yep, that's right, not just lounge chairs...CABANAS. Inside, there's home theater that fits 22, as well as regular pilates and yoga classes that take place whenever there's not a game going on in the indoor basketball court. Wow, we are not in NYC anymore!

I knew this moment was approaching, and needed some inspiration for the new place. I am really excited about painting the walls (which I've never done before) and giving the place some personality, but needed inspiration. So, my friends and I went to Made by Me in Cambridge for a little pottery painting. My friends made everything from a precious business card holder for the new business she's starting, to a ruffly blue bowl with yellow stars (a la le petit prince) to boxes adorned with paisley and fleur de lys designs. I made a mirror frame (see above-I glued the mirror in after it was glazed). Apparently I am into gray's, lavenders, and purples, so I think this color palate will begin to inspire my living room! Not only is painting really relaxing (even if you have limited artistic ability, like myself) but you get to make each piece completely your own. It's a loud, noisy world out there, and sometimes you need to take a moment to find your inner color voice-so go forth and find a pottery painting place near you!

The next few days will be all about my color choices for my new place. Stay posted, I'll need your help deciding!!

Home Accessories Anyone?

In my opinion, there are very few shopping trips that are more entertaining than searching for home decor. You can save on the basics, and use one little accent pillow to take a room from a B to an A- in a heartbeat. My favorite finds are vases, pillows, and mirrors. I'm moving to Chicago this summer and cannot wait to redecorate!

I would be remiss if I did not highlight my absolute favorite home decor store: Z Gallerie. Why do I love Z Gallerie? Only because my favorite pillows live there! ALL OF MY BEDS have featured an accent pillow from Z. Their home decor is simultaneously subtle, sparkly, classy, unique, and fun! Their website does not do the store justice, but check it out to get a taste and see if there's one near you! I never leave empty handed.