Our guest bedroom (work in progress) Part 1!

I have always wanted to make over our guest bedroom but unfortunately, the plan always get postponed due to budget constraint. Luckily for me, the wonderful people at Arhaus agreed to provide me this gorgeous bed so I can get my overdue project started. A big thanks to Kimberly and her team for their generosity!

Barrister Ivory Bed

Isn't she a beauty? A beautiful tufted bed has always been on my wishlist, so I am especially thrilled to have this sumptuous bed in our home! Since our guest bedroom is quite small, I decided to get a queen size bed to make space for two nightstands and table lamps on either side of the bed.

A few days ago, the bed has arrived, in great condition. The wonderful delivery guys wanted to help me assemble the bed initially but our old bed was still in the room so the new bed didn't get assembled yet. I have asked the delivery guys for assembly instructions. Fortunately, the instructions seemed easy enough. I am planning to get the bed assembled this weekend so I can show you what it looks like in our guest bedroom next week!

Speaking of our guest bedroom, currently it looks like this. 

The blinds were inherited from previous owners. Nothing much was done to this room except painting over the light yellow walls and reusing the same pieces we had years ago. 

Such a bland, boring and basic room, isn't it? In my defense, the bed frame, bedding, nightstands, table lamps and pillows were purchased for our guest bedroom with a crazy tiny budget 9 years ago when we were still living in North Carolina.

The story goes like this. Like many new homeowners, we were broke. With only a mere $1000 budget for new paint, a new bed, two new nightstands, two new table lamps, new bedding, new pillows, new curtain panels, new curtain rod, new mattresses and new box springs (yup, that was included in the budget as well) and a 3-week dateline, you can only do so much.

Additionally, we didn't have a lot of good furniture options in our area. Ikea was a few states away and getting nice items online was out of the question since they usually cost so much more with shipping so we were stuck with what's available near our town. Despite the crazy small budget and the crazy short amount of time we had (less than 3 weeks), we managed to pull together the room on time and came in under budget. At that time, I was quite proud of myself considering it was my first decorating project and the budget challenge that came with it.

I remembered getting the table lamps for $15 each (50% off) from Lowes and they were the starting point for the whole design. In case you are wondering, we purchased the bedding from Target and the cheapo nightstands for $29.90 each from Bed, Bath and Beyond. Yep, I still remembered what some of the things cost even after nine years because we were really mindful with our budget at that time.

To be honest, I have never liked the old bed we picked but it was the only bed that we can afford at that time. Can you tell I am pretty psyched over our new bed and this whole makeover?

Here is what I have in mind for this room!

What do you think of my design plan? I already bought a few pieces for the room and am planning to order a few more items online. Stay tuned for another update next week!

If you need help decorating your home, please click here for further information regarding my design services.

The modern bathroom- A mix of luxury and practicality!

Every home deserves a bathroom that meets the aspirations of its users, and though you may not spend as much time in your bathroom as in your lounge, it is the place you relax and wash away the stresses of your day.

However, there is also a practical side to a bathroom that needs to be satisfied, and we need to achieve a balance between that practicality and the oasis that we desire. So, how do we achieve that balance? Quite simply, we design our bathroom to give us the necessities we need, but we also add a few touches to help us relax when we feel the need. 

Some people feel that the expense of remodeling a bathroom outweighs the benefits, but Architectural and design magazine Freshome believes that improving your bathroom as one of the top ways to increase the value of your home. So this is can be seen as an investment rather than an expense; and one you can enjoy. 

Here are somethings that you should be thinking about in your search for the balanced bathroom.

The Tub

The centerpiece of any bathroom should be the bath itself, and there are a myriad of styles and sizes to choose from. For both practicality and luxury you need to think about the size.

If you have a couple of young kids, what can be more fun at bath time than being able to splash around in the water together. And as an adult in search of tranquility, you will want to submerge completely in your tub surrounded by beautiful smells and relaxing music.

Aroma diffuser

One of the easiest ways to make your bathroom more relaxing is to fit a diffuser in the room. This will allow you to fill your bathroom with the fragrance of your favorite essential oil. You can pick an oil that will suit your mood, or even pick one that has a particular health benefit. Of course you can always add an essential oil to the water to double the potential.

The Shower

We do not always have the time for a long bath, and in the morning it is usually more practical to take a shower. In a well-designed bathroom you will usually find a quadrant shower enclosure tucked away neatly in the corner; as it is great for privacy from the kids, and an alternative for anyone not prepared to wait for the tub. A shower enclosure is a neat and tidy way to provide this most basic amenity, and the beautiful etched glass that is now available means you can add a personal touch and some style too.

Sound System

If you are trying to unwind after a hectic day, music is a great way to help you relax; so why not combine music with your evening soak? Obviously, you can play music in another room, but this tends to disturb others and is hardly fair. You can easily fit speakers in your bathroom, but why not fit a sound system? No more soaking walks to change a track or pick a new album. Complete control from your tub is achievable with a waterproof remote, and you could even have a wireless stereo speaker fitted to your shower head if you are not in the tub.

Flooring

Though it is possible to use some beautiful natural stone in your bathroom, it is not always the best choice; cold underfoot and extremely slippery when wet, stone flooring is only a choice for its aesthetics. If you want a stone floor in your bathroom, it would be better to choose ceramic tiles, there is a huge choice of designs available and the nonslip choices are perfect for young children. Of course you could go for laminate or natural wood, and these can also be a great choice, but be aware that natural wood will need to be maintained.

Double Basins

It is very frustrating finding yourself in a queue for the bathroom basin every morning. Fortunately, this is so easy to remedy; the addition of a double basin will give you all the space you need, and is a great way to add another touch of luxury. 

Finishing your bathroom with a treated marble counter top adds some style and elegance that is difficult to find in other ways. A long marble counter with two basins, set before a long mirror is not only a beautiful thing to look at; it is also very practical.

If your home has only the one bathroom, then this mix of comfort and practicality is a must. A compromise is required, and luckily, is possible. All that is required is to think about your bathroom design, and then everyone in your home can enjoy the bathroom.

Product review- Redbubble canvas prints!

I am excited to collaborate with Redbubble again for today's product review! You can check out our previous collaboration post here.

What makes Redbubble stands out among the crowd? For starters, Redbubble is one of the most diverse creative community and marketplace on the internet. With a wide range of talented artists and designers hailing from every corner of the globe offering thousands of unique, fabulous and affordable T-shirts & clothing, kids clothes, phone cases, stickers, prints, throw pillows, tote bags, greeting cards and calenders, you are likely to find something you love!

Recently, they have added duvet covers to their collection. The following are some of my favorites!

Kombi freedom

Graphic 104

Sharktopus- Get It Right

Rainbow Pastel Watercolor Morrocan Pattern

fly away

Moose Pattern Christmas Sweater

Cute Blue Octopus

Free as a Bird- (JUSART)

Dreamsicle

bellabellabella

bed and breakfast

second breakfast

Yarn Ball Pit

Superhero Alphabet

Nature Beauty

Tulips

Fall In Love With Yourself (Pink)

orange traffic cone

Such fun and adorable duvet covers! Which one is your favorite?

For today's review, I decided to pick two of their fabulous canvas prints. Here they are!

This beautiful canvas print measures at 12"x16.4" (medium).

Close-up.

Aspects of Whitby

Originally created using acrylics on waterboard by talented artist Graham Clark, this delightful artwork catches my eye instantly. At a glance, this is just another bright and bold artwork with a decidedly cartoon-like quality. If you look closely however, the artwork portrays a semi-realistic backdrop which is unexpected but complements the semi-cartoon effect perfectly. Such a wonderful use of contrast! 

The meticulous details, quirky characters and energetic color palette makes the artwork even more visually interesting. Although the artwork conveys a sense of lighthearted fun, the painting shows remarkable depth and a great understanding of color. 

A work of a true artist, in my opinion! Needless to say, I love my beautiful canvas print very much!

Here's the second artwork I picked for today's review.

This gorgeous canvas print measures at 16" x 21.1" (large).

Close-up.

Awakening

This fabulous artwork is created by another talented artist, Christian Schloe. Evoking a sense of surrealism, this mesmerizing beauty has an irresistible charm for sure!

I really like how the artist highlights the main subject (dress/ rose) by paying extra attention to detail in this area so our eyes are focused on the intended subject. The well-chosen color palette helps to deliver an overall surreal and dreamy effect, which I really adore. Also, the attention to detail in this artwork is simply amazing, which is another major plus. Definitely another work of art!

Quality wise, both artwork are well-made and printed on good quality canvases. A small metal hardware is included at the back for easy hanging. Two small felts are placed at the back, right at the bottom corners so they won't leave a mark on your walls. Such a thoughtful detail, don't you think?

Speaking of thoughtful, my artwork are carefully wrapped and protected with layers of papers and plastic covers. Suffice to say, they arrived at my door step in perfect condition. I couldn't be happier! 

I would highly recommend getting canvas prints from Redbubble especially if you are looking for something cool, something beautiful, something unique or something quirky.

Disclosure: I have received this product to review for free but the views and opinions expressed are my own.

There are many, many more wonderful work of art on their site so check them out when you get a chance! Happy shopping!

Fabulous finds- Great deals around the web!

Happy Labor Day, my lovelies! I hope you are having a great time spending the 3-day break with your friends and family so far.

As for us, we decided to stay home because our son was having a slight fever since yesterday. We have planned to celebrate his birthday today since he was born on Labor Day (his real birthday actually falls on September 4th). Hopefully, he will get well soon to celebrate his birthday.

Anyway, since it's Labor Day today, there are bound to be some good deals around the web. I have decided to do a some research for you and put together my favorite sales. Check them out!

Richard Mishaan Agate Acrylic Box

I have always love the chic agate acrylic boxes they have on One Kings Lane. Unfortunately, they are usually quite expensive, costing $80 and upwards. 

Fortunately, I stumbled upon this gorgeous little acrylic box on HSN recently on clearance for only $14.97! Needless to say, I bought it instantly. With taxes and shipping included, it only costed me about $20. The quality is great (both agate and box) even though my pink agate is not as gorgeous as the one shown on their website. The agate comes in purple and blue as well. 

A pretty box like this is quite versatile and perfect for styling a writing desk, a coffee table, a side table, a nightstand, a dresser, a console, a shelf and vanity table. So get them now before they are gone, deals like this don't come very often! 

Deer Head- 17,75"H

This glossy gold deer head is absolutely chic and it's on sale for only $49.99. Put one on a small wall or group a few together/ with artwork to make a design statement! 

Morenci Vase

These glamorous, oversized vases are gorgeous! Buy one or pair them together on a dining table, dresser or console table for maximum drama! The 19"H is on sale for $29.89 and the 13"H is on sale for $24.89. A terrific deal to create a major visual statement if you ask me!

 Zoey Double Gourd 1-Light Orange Table Lamps (set of 2)

These gorgeous lamps are on sale and they are only $187.19 for two! If you have been shopping around, you would realized a pair of beautiful glossy gourd lamps like these could easily cost twice or thrice the price, a fantastic deal I would say! I really love the high-end look and the gold trim detail. There are plenty of color options too. The best part is FREE shipping, it can't get any better than that!

Monte Mirrors

It's brass, it's quatrefoil and it's beautiful, what's not to love? Use one above the bed, console, dresser or fireplace or simply pair two or three together on a wall to make a design statement. It's on sale for only $84, limited quality. Oh, by the way, you can enjoy FREE shipping (today only) with the code OHSNAP.

Upholstered Hara Screen

This beautiful screen is on sale for only $99.99, a great buy if you ask me! I love the classic, ivory color. The nail head details is a great touch! A great solution to separate two rooms or hide unattractive exercise equipment. You can also use it in a home office as a room divider or as an inspirational board to pin your favorite images. Win-win!

Ivory Kendall Sofa

This lovely sofa is on sale for only $549.99! I really like the button-tufted details and clean lines. Since it's only available online, it comes with a $110 delivery surcharge. However, you can save the $110 surcharge by ordering it in-store and picking it up yourself (as suggested by one of the reviewers on the website),  

Happy Chic by Jonathan Adler Cresent Heights 60" Console Table

Can you believe this stylish console is on clearance for only $499? You can save an additional 10%-20% on top of the $499 (details here). I have seen it in person and the quality is good! It comes in red, too. I would use it behind a sofa, in the foyer/ entry or in the dining room as a buffet table. Such a great price for this versatile piece! 

Happy Chic by Jonathan Adler Cresent Heights Bookcase

Another amazing deal for a great quality Jonathan Adler bookcase! This piece is now on clearance for just $555. You can save an additional 10%-20% on top of the $555 (details here) It comes in white, teal and charcoal as well. I would use one in a small area or a pair to create height in a room! This bookcase is perfect to display books (obviously), pretties and collectibles! 

Sale ends today!

Rugs USA Santa Ana Striped SM22 Lemon Rug

Such a bright and cherry graphic rug! It's now on sale for 70% off and comes in red, blue and gray. Sizes are quite limited so get yours now before it's too late!

Homespun HK116 Black Rug

I love the graphic punch! I envisioned using it as a backdrop for colorful, modern furniture. At 80% off, you can now get the 7'6" x 9'6" size for $186 with free shipping (for US orders), it's such a steal for a 100% wool rug! Get it now before it's gone!

Rugs USA Savanna Lattice VE05 Sunflower Rug

Adore this lovely rug! I would use this pretty rug in a transitional home or to freshen up a traditional space. It's made with 100% wool and available in four other wonderful colors as well. You can now get the 7'6" x 9'5" size for $200 (with the 70% off coupon code). What a bargain!

 Rugs USA Outdoor Greek Key Tan Rug

I am drooling over this fabulous outdoor greek key rug! It is totally a steal at 70% off! I really like the classic pattern and combination of textures. With a neutral color palette, it will work well with any outdoor style furniture! 

Rugs USA Alfresco Outdoor ST04 Tan Rug

Another fabulous neutral outdoor rug with 70% off! The Moroccan-inspired motif would work really well with any transitional or contemporary patio furniture. 

Don't miss these stunning rugs, they would be gone before you know it! Sale ends on Sept 5th.

Which is your favorite deal? I would love to know!

Disclaimer: I did not receive any compensation for the publication of this post.