Do you find yourself chanting this mantra several times a day: "Serenity now, Serenity now!" {Don't we all these days?!} If you are feeling the chaos of life, we need to talk. As important as it is to make visual statements in your home, the ta da! moments we all seem to strive for, it is also very important to create places of calm to counteract the chaos of life. The more you have going on in your life, the more this will resonate with you. Having a home that reflects serenity can truly give you a sense of peace. In today's world, that is more important than ever. Here are five ways to create a calm home 1. CLEAR THE CLUTTER The best way to create serenity is to clear the clutter and visual chaos. When your home is filled with stuff, be it clutter, piles of papers, dirty dishes, … [Read more...]
Best of ICFF: TOTO USA makes us Proud
ICFF, New York, New York - This year my visit to the International Contemporary Furniture Fair was full of new and interesting product highlights. Even more rewarding was my participation with the savvy design group called DesignHounds. This dynamic group of International designers was given an informative tour of new product highlights at this year's ICFF in New York. The one manufacturer I need to mention, presenting the most of Beauty and Brains is hands down, TOTO USA bathroom fixtures. The ultimate Bathroom is one that is good for you and good for the planet. I am always impressed with TOTO's technology and quality. From the Kardashians to saving water in Africa, they are very active in conservation discussions both locally and abroad. Sustainability : For those interested … [Read more...]
Fun & Functional Bathroom Organization Ideas
If you're like most every other woman in the world, you have an overabundance of make-up, scented lotion, hair accessories and bath salts. This isn't necessarily a bad thing...if it's organized. When everything has a place and everything is in its place, then it's easier to justify fifteen bottles of seemingly the same lotion to our significant others. Amiright, guys? Before we move on to the organization part, let's take 30 minutes to clean and purge. Set a timer, grab a garbage bag for TOSS items and a basket for KEEP items, and begin. Be sure to go through the closet, under the sink, in the shower, behind the toilet {hey, you never know.}...leave no empty bottles behind! I'll wait. Okay, you're back, great! That felt good, huh? Now, you should have only the things you know you'll … [Read more...]
Bathroom Decorating Tips (Yes! I said Bathroom.)
Bathrooms are often overlooked rooms in a home when it comes to decorating. Why? Because they are super utilitarian spaces (probably second only to laundry rooms), aren't particularly flexible in the furniture re-arrangement department, and usually don't have a lot of extra room to display items. PLUS there is the whole humidity factor, and then the hygiene issue...well, it all adds up to bathrooms being ignored decor-wise. But it doesn't have to be so. You can infuse a bathroom with personality and style, even within these confines. First, tuck away the toiletries. Hide the toothbrushes and toothpaste, put the hair accessories in a drawer, and leave the lotions and potions for the medicine cabinet. Start with a clean slate! Keep it simple. Unlike most rooms, … [Read more...]