"Feathering the Nest" defined....

Feathering the Nest - as defined by an online dictionary...

1. Fig. to decorate and furnish one's home in style and comfort. (Alludes to birds lining their nests with feathers to make them warm and comfortable.) 

I just love this definition! And I love what I do....helping people feel "warm and comfortable" in their own home utilizing their own furnishings & collections. Keep that in mind when looking at the before & after pics below...the style may not be what you would choose...but that is the beauty of it all...everyone has their own "taste"...and my job is to make the most of what they have...not judge and tell them they need to start over. Hello...small BUDGET anyone? However, if someone does desire a fresh start - I can help with that as well!

BEFORE

AFTER 

 

we also added beautiful sconces in the recessed areas on either side of the mantle.

BEFORE

              

                  AFTER

     The table in the window was under the window to the right of the fireplace. (you can barley see the corner of it in the very first before)

Always keep in mind, "what can be seen from the curb?" Put the lamps in the window on a timer to provide a warm glow at night...specially nice here in Chicago when it gets dark at 4pm in the winter!

BEFORE

AFTER

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AFTER

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Moving the art work above the buffet and flanking it with 

lamps creates a beautiful focal point. 

BEFORE

Need some finishing touches? Look at what new artwork, window treatments, rug & a lamp does for this space! Warm & cozy :)

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Small changes make a big difference...pulling sofa off of far wall and adding sofa table with lamps warms up the space with minimal cost. 

 What about you? Do you have enough "stuff" to warm up your place or do you need to run to Homegoods? What are you waiting for? Get going!

I Heart Arranging

One of the biggest joys in my life is making others happy...I believe this is why I have such a huge love of "one day room makeovers"...arranging Your Stuff...it is all Your Style...however it is Only Better when I have finished! And clients are so HAPPY...your happy, I'm happy...the world is a better place. (well maybe not that big of a deal...but there is a little more Joy for sure!)

BEFORE

AFTER 
The homeowner specifically requested all existing furniture be used and she liked having two distinct seating areas. Which is a good thing given the amount of furniture and space!

BEFORE - Right of fireplace

Obviously, all of the artwork on the coffee table was not normally there.

The homeowner had her foyer and living room painted (bye-bye stripes)

She had already started preparing for the painter when these pictures were taken! The rug originally anchored only this side of the room. Placed in the center of the room – it marries the two seating areas together. Now the room is unified, yet distinctly 2 groupings of furniture.

AFTER

Notice her sons award plaques found a new home on the coffee table VS the fireplace mantle...now mama & sons are happy :)  

 Another AFTER

The beautiful candelabra's came off the mantle to create a beautiful tablescape on the right. This also creates some visual weight to help balance the book case at the other end of the room. 

 

BEFORE - left of fireplace

 ANOTHER BEFORE - left of fireplace

I had to breakdown this book case...good thing I have an assistant! 

See the doors (intentionally) blocked by the sofa?

AFTER - left of the fireplace

the doors are now concealed by the bookcase as well as creating a stunning focal point

See...aren't you happy now? Imagine how happy this homeowner is and how much fun I had arranging! I heart arranging :) Do you?