Eclectic Collage



Gallery Wall Collage by Incorporated NYC [Sixteen Doors]

When I saw this eclectic collage I was so taken by it. I didn't know what to look at first (in a good way).  There are so many interesting elements that I couldn't decide which I wanted to study first. It's a great conversation starter and it's clear that there is a story behind each piece.  Personal touches like these are what make a home just that, home. Executing this in your space doesn't have to be complicated or expensive.  

 

 

L.A. actress Andree Vermeulen created a funky eclectic mix like this in her apartment with pictures, posters, and the like, of memorabilia that tell the story of her theatre journey. She admits that it was part decoration and part necessity (to keep her props intact in between shows), but the effect is the same, interesting and eclectic representations of her personality.

 

 

 

 

 

 



The portraits (by Erin McGathy) and boomboxes made from electrical tape are active props, but they add such interest to this theatrical presentation.  The backstage pictures (photography: Robyn Von Swank) and posters have that warm familial effect, featuring her theatre family. Most of the frames used were less than $20 and in most cases under $10; all sourced from  stores like Bed Bath & Beyond and Walgreens. Bravo Andree!

 

 

  

 

 

This poster is from Andree's current show "Lula and Lola Are In Big Time Trouble", which is running at UCB LA.  For show schedules and other information: http://losangeles.ucbtheatre.com/shows/view/3191

 

To Follow Andree on Twitter: @DreeAndree

 

 

 

 

How to do your own collage:

 

First, start with things and pictures that mean something to you. You can stick to something thematic which might help you edit what and what not to use, but you don't have to.

 

Second, is variety, elements with different shapes and sizes. Maybe start off with various sizes of the same shape (small, medium, and large). 

 

Third, is arrangement. Map out how you want to arrange your collage by laying it out on the floor. Once your satisfied, take a picture with your digital camera or even your phone, so you have a reference. Then recreate it on your wall.

 

Fourth, invite people over to see what a great job you've done (this step is encouraged but not mandatory). 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Content: #EclecticCollage, #Photography, #Theatre, #Actress, #InteriorDesign



Hit Refresh!

Curtains: Wayfair.com, Chair & Pillows: Homedecorators.com, Lamp: Lightunguniverse.com



Sometimes re-doing an entire space just isn't feasible for any number of reasons. Instead of a room re-do, try doing a refresh! Update or change out accessories, artwork, window treatments, and maybe even an accent piece or two. You'd be surprised at what a difference a few small changes can make.

 

Here is a basic recipe for a room refresh:

 

1. Paint: Paint changes a room instantly. Sometimes this is all you need. But for the biggest bang, it helps to make additional changes (I'm getting to it :)

 

2. Window Treatments: Layering is key. Paint offset by curtains or blinds puts you well on the road to maximum design impact.

 

3. Decorative Pillows: Using pillows is a fun way to play with design trends, or seasonal changes like holidays, or simply update the look of your space. Mix patterns and textures, but try to keep a common theme (like shape or color for example).

 

4. Lamps: Lighting makes a space, but a good looking piece makes it that much better. New table or floor lamps add yet another dimension that visually enhances your room.

 

5. Artwork: Depending on your budget, this step isn't necessary, but if you can afford to do it, do it! Like I said before, layering is key. The more layers that pull your look together, the better (within reason of course).  

 

6. Accent Piece: Whether you are switching out a coffee table, a love seat, or just adding an accent chair, the addition of a new piece will serve your space well. This step isn't necessary either, but if you can swing it, certainly do it. You won't regret it.

 

And VOILA!!! There is your room refresh. Happy decorating.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Content: #Room Makeover, #Before and After, #Affordable Design, #Decorating Tips, #NYC Designer, #Interior Design, #DIY

 

Outta Space...

One might think "the bigger the better" when it comes to living spaces but I don't feel that way. Sure big expanses of real estate are nice to look at.  Quite frankly, I prefer the charm of smaller spaces. The practical side of me is drawn to studios because they have the bare necessities, sleep/eat/"go" areas and there isn't a lot of space to maintain. If well laid out and put together, I'd take a studio over a mansion any day.

Here are a few studios that show that great planning and intention can make a grand statement.



Crisp, white, and well appointed.




 

Fun and Fresh!


 

Warm, quaint, and Oh so cozy.

Dream a little dream...

Every now and then I post a picture of a space that I wouldn't mind having in my own home. This would be one!

Oh So Clever!!

Whenever I see something clever, I just  have to spread the word! So here it goes...

 

 

 

 

 

This is such a cute idea. Buy some simple hooks, hang your favorite items, and then trace them with washable marker. Clever and Adorable!!

 

 

 

 

 

Check out this wonderful teen bedroom. Fabulous work by Minneapolis designer Lisa Ball. When I first saw the walls, I thought it was cork. The concept that the cork is the wall covering and another material is used on top of that as a bulletin board is a great idea. However, the texture on the wall is actually a great wall covering by Phillip Jeffries. I'm not sure if that was the designer's intention but either way it is a very clever space.  From the nightstands that double as workspace to the modern taxidermy mounted above the bed. The space is fun and functional and certainly a job well done!