Destination: Staycation

For the most part, vacations are chosen based on the destination, then accommodations are found – whether it is a hotel, villa, etc, then itineraries are planned around those. In the last few decades hotels around the world have been trying to provide accommodations for any and every interest you could possibly imagine. These quirky, innovative lodgings are quickly becoming the actual destination as opposed to the geographic location once were. While most people would love a nice beachfront hotel, some prefer sledding with huskies, or sleeping with the fishes in an Atlantis-esque suite.  I could write about these places forever, but I’ve narrowed it down to my favorites. Whatever your interest is, I am sure there is somewhere out there that you’d love, put it on your bucket list today – I know I’ve added quite a few! =) See where your imagination can take you. ..

1. Atlantis – The Palm Hotel, Dubai2. Hotel Kakslauttanen, Finland

The Library Hotel, New York4. Crazy Bear, England

5. Tsala Treetop Lodge, South Africa6.  The Sweet Escape, Florida

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Exposed!


One of my favorite elements of that some New York City apartments boast are beautifully exposed brick walls. These exposed walls are almost like the bones of the place, and give off a rustic, industrial look. I love how they can make such a statement without being too loud or bold – it’s just a really natural, muted look that brings so much life to a space. Of course – they can be added to per taste, but I like the simplicity of just a few photo frames adorning the walls, or even just the bare wall itself. Check out six different ways brick walls were done right! And, if you want to achieve a similar look – try a faux brick wall – tutorial via Pinterest.

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Think Pink!

Not everyone loves the color pink. However, I am a big fan. While pink is mostly associated with women or being feminine in nature, as the years go by, it is becoming more of a gender neutral tone. In some countries outside of the U.S., boys are actually outfitted in pink and girls in blue. I actually love the idea of incorporating pink into a home that is shared by both sexes. Again, some are overwhelmed by the color. However, there are very different ways to introduce pink into your home, whether it’s furniture or decor – less the pepto effect. This color and related hues are associated with feelings of happiness, warmness and cheerfulness, so why wouldn’t you want it in your home? Check out six different ways to think pink without being over the top!

1. By way of accent decor…

2. To greet your guests with a welcoming door.

3. Make your living room cheery with a couch in a pale blush…

4. Or pair it up so it’s not “too much”

5. Use a pop of hot pink in the bathroom for a bright start to your day…

6. Or  add a splash of pink and sweet dream the night away!

Read the original: sixdifferentways.com

From the pages to the walls

My first book was The Cat Who Said Meow. While I do not have a particular affection for cats, I do enjoy reading very much. I have since my older sister taught me how to. I believe that reading one book a night (at a bare minimum) it so necessary, almost vital to all children. There are so many benefits to reading, it sharpens your mind, expands your vocabulary, your knowledge of diverse subjects, and is super relaxing to name a few!! So while most children/adults are quick to hop on the literature train, here are six different ways to inspire a desire to read – how you ask? By bringing the story to life…check it out! I chose my favorite six – there are so many different ways you could achieve the look of your favorite book!

TOP TO BOTTOM: THE GREAT GATSBY, GREEK MYTHOLOGY: THE STORY OF APHRODITE, ELOISE, VINTAGE COMICS, HARRY POTTER & THE LION, WITCH AND THE WARDROBE

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DIY Backyard Makeovers!

Over the memorial day weekend, I hosted a BBQ, as I am sure most people either hosted or attended one themselves. Any how, I woke early Saturday morning to prep the backyard for my ten plus guests. While setting up with the outdoor chairs we have, and folding tables, I realized that we were severely lacking in the aesthetics department. So, of course I took to pinterest. Here are six different ways to spruce up your summer shin dig – DIY style. Enjoy!

1. String Lights – How gorgeous these are! They’re inviting and warm up the atmosphere, adding a magical touch to any summer night.

2. Outdoor Storage Cabinet - Use an old cabinet, strip it down and paint it, add some funky wallpaper and add a all weather sealant. Store garden tools, swimming towels, candles, etc away safely and in style.

3. Outdoor Plastic Chairs Revamped – Cover areas of your old plastic chairs with tape, and pick a fun color and spray away. I like the horizontal stripes, and would probably go for a nautical style with navy and white stripes but the brighter the better!

4. Tire Coffee Table - Love these colors! Perfect example of upcycling. Alternatives to the tires could be a ice tub, great for storage!!

5. Tent - This is really detailed, but you could try simpler versions. Great for reading, relaxing, and resting.

6. Pallet Tiki Bar – This is a feat for the ambitious, but worth the results! Add lights for the finishing touch!

Continued here: sixdifferentways.com

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Six Shades of May

To end the month of May off in proper fashion, I would like to introduce six shades of May. This post is a tribute to the design and décor brought to us via the major motion picture movie that recently hit dvd a few weeks ago. While some weren’t huge fans of the movie, but were of the book, or vis a vis – we cannot deny the impeccable taste in style of furniture and decor - specifically in the infamous red room. While the colors and tones may be a little harsh for some, there are some alternative, modern and delicate ways to achieve a similar style. Here are our six shades of May!

Inspired by…The Four Poster Bed – “Bone Inlay Four Poster Bed” – via Anthropologie 

Inspired by…The Tally Chair – “Edie Chaise” via Urban Outfitters

The Cubist Dresser via Pinterest

The Ipod Column – via  Hollywood Displays

Inspired by the Gold Geometric Ceiling… “Art Deco Gold Screen” via Pinterest

Inspired by…Chesterfield sofa – “Aristocrat Sofa” by Zuo Modern via Inmod.com

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Lovely Lofts

Recently, I made some room in one of the smaller rooms in my home. This room was previously used as an office, a closet, a spare bedroom, a craft room, a mini library…and the list goes on. More recently, we have been hosting a number of family friends. So, the room is going to serve as a guest bedroom again. While we absolutely need to utilize this room for guests, it also needs to retain some of the space that we used it for previously. So what has to go? NOTHING.  Here are six different lovely lofts that will serve to maximize the usage of your guest room!
1.  The computer desk, media shelves and trundle/additional loft bed make this perfect for a multi functional space!
2. Check out those stairs – they are actually filing cabinets! Closet and storage space as well as trendy ombre doors serve to make this chic loft space perfect for you and your guests.
3. This loft bed has a cozy little nook underneath that’s enclosed for privacy. Great closet space here as well!
4. This kid’s loft space is too cute. The modern classic furniture, fake grass and work/play space are perfect for your little ones or grand kids!
5. The deluxe loft – this has it all! Closet space, a book shelf, a seating area. It’s pretty much everything you need in and under one piece of furniture.
6. Very cool closed off space, great for kids or adults. this was made with a regular loft bed, and then transformed with DIY cut out panels. Good for privacy, safety, and fun!

Originally posted here: sixdifferentways.com

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Fun with Photography

May is a month of celebration of many things, Mother’s Day especially. An observation of the art of Photography is also celebrated this month. I have always loved looking at photographs, old and new – whether they are portraits, landscapes, or wedding photographs – they truly hold a thousand words. Actually, they hold more. Check out six different ways to incorporate photography into your home décor in some very unique ways. Perfect Mother’s Day gifts as well!

1. Canvas – I love this idea – it is a photograph of a bride’s bouquet from her wedding day. The couple had it blown up on an adhesive canvas, and made it a statement wall. Gorgeous way to remember that special day.

2. Photo Booth – Larger than Life Photo booth! Another fun idea, blown up photos put together to make a photo booth like effect. A great way to incorporate separate family members into one shot!

3. Quilt- This is really unique! I had originally saw this is a movie years ago, and loved the idea. Perfect for mothers and other family members who live far away, and could use some warm memories from time to time.

4. Furniture – I love this idea! It would be great for a shared bedroom for children, i.e. putting each child’s photo on one dresser so they could identify which belonged to them. Great idea!

5. Letters – Make a collage and turn it into your favorite words, or quotes! The usage of “Joy” is beautiful; I also was fond of “Family” and “Love.”

6. Lampshade – Shed some light on your favorite moments! This DIY project might be trickier than most, but definitely worth the effort.

Hope you enjoyed these six different ways, and maybe your Mother will too! =)

Link: sixdifferentways.com

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Cinco different ways to decorate in Mayo

So it’s Cinco de Mayo! Grab a frothy margarita and take a seat. Here are five different ways (I know, it’s supposed to be six but I had to!) to decorate your home with a touch of Mexico! Try one or all, I am so in love with the bright colors and mixture of prints and patterns – there is really no way this could go wrong! Mexican style is heavily influenced by Spanish, Native American -specifically Aztec and Mayan among many others cultures. A lot of the concepts, traditions, colors and customs were passed down and melded into what we now call modern Mexico.

1. Colorful Furniture – Mix it, match it, the brighter the better! Statement pieces are staples to Mexican style design. If you don’t want to make the jump to colorful furniture- take a small step to…

2. Bright Accent Walls – The Spanish influenced architecture of Mexico provides some beautiful archways, ceilings, and woodwork. Here we see a carved out geometric wall which is painted a lovely teal and topped off with Aztec wall art. I love the combination of color and shape – it really makes for a great conversation piece. If you don’t have the advantage of having structures like these, you could always paint them – of course using a bright hue – onto your wall, furniture, etc.

3. Moravian Hanging Stars – These are another item you are sure to see when in Mexico. They have a religious symbolism, however, they are used in decor and design and have been for years. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, color and are made from different materials. Some even light up! A room full of Moravian Star Light is surely a sight to see.

4. Bold colors paired with geometric shapes – Hot Pink, turquoise, and a lovely black and white Aztec patterned floor are just some of the highlights of this modern Mexican Lounge. Pair several colors, or even just one – (I’d go for a canary yellow) with two toned geometric floors, or furniture.

5. Hand Painted Ceramic Tile – Ok, so you might not know, or want to hand paint tiles. However, you can purchase wall art that has the same aesthetic as these hand painted tiles that are common to Mexico – most of the time blue and white. The paintings on the ceramics usually are traditional folk designs from years and years ago and add a traditional feel to any space.

So now you have Cinco different ways to infuse your home with a little of taste of Mexico! Happy Cinco de Mayo & Enjoy!

Continued here: sixdifferentways.com

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Food Inspired Rooms

I am a self proclaimed foodie. One wouldn’t think so as I really do not eat that much, but when I eat, I EAT. When I’m at work, I’m thinking about dinner. When I’m having dinner, I’m thinking about breakfast. Sometimes I’m coming up with new recipes, other times I’m mimicking chain restaurant’s secret recipes (I have a guilty pleasure for cheddar bay biscuits).  I have been like this for as long as I could remember. When I was younger, it was tipped more to the chocolate/candy/dessert/sweet end of the see-saw that is my diet, now it’s more food. When I was a kid though, sweets were my passion. I always wanted a room that was decorated like the candy land board game – which was naturally my favorite game. Unfortunately my sister, with whom I shared a room with at the time, didn’t share my enthusiasm for sweets so I was SOL. One always could dream, and I did. I took a trip down memory lane today and found these really unique, food themed rooms, some popping up in hotels around the country!! Dreams do come true!! Dig in!! =)

Link: sixdifferentways.com

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