This Fall – Let’s Layer it Up! Tips on How to Layer Rugs.

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Photo Credit: At Home in Love

In honor of the first week of Fall lets talk about layering, rugs that is! In the cooler months we love to layer our clothes, leather jackets tossed over cashmere sweaters on top of tweed and over-the-knee boots, cardigans on top of sassy dresses paired over tights with booties and skinny jeans mixed with turtlenecks under fur vests – the layering options are endless when it comes to fashion so why should it not be endless inside the home?

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Photo Credit: Pop Sugar

Photo Credit: Fresh American Style

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Photo Credit: Zelda & Medeline

We layer our beds with accent pillows and blankets. Toss cozy throws across our sofas. Stack layers of coffee table books in bookcases. But what about the floor?! Layering rugs is a trend that is here to stay! It adds instant interest to any room.

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Photo Credit: Simon Design Blog

There are dozens of ways to layer rugs. The most popular trend in layering starts with a large natural fiber rug such as a jute, seagrass or sisal rug layered with a smaller rug to ground it. To add a pop of interest it is best to layer with a rug that is not the same color, but rather a bold design with bright color or an animal hide like zebra.

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Photo Credit: A Bit of Sass

When layering rugs you can literally center one rectangle rug on top of another, but always make sure the base rug is significantly larger than the rug sitting on top. You can also angle one of the rugs – the larger rug on the bottom can be angled with the top rug centered or vice versa. Angling rugs can place emphasis on a focal point like an amazing view and it gives a room movement.

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Photo Credit: Reckless Glamour

If you have a rug that you love but it is too small in scale for a room this is the perfect opportunity to place a larger neutral rug under it to ground it. Rugs can be very expensive, if you are redecorating and are not able to part with a rug that is an investment piece consider layering it with a more modern rug to give it an instant update! Animal hides add an automatic punch of “modern” to any room and are easy to layer. If your budget is endless layering multiple rugs, three or more, gives a room a very dramatic and
lush feel.

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Photo Credit: Apartment Therapy

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Photo Credit: Tumbler

I would love to hear from you!  What are your Tips & Tricks when layering rugs?  Do you have any ideas to share?  Let me see your pics on social media & don’t for get to tag me so I do not miss it!

Need help shopping for a rug?  Here are some great ideas:

Jute Rug: Click Here!

Seagrass Rug: Click Here!

Sisal Rug: Click Here! 

Zebra Cowhide Rug: Click Here!

Zebra GOLD Metallic Cowhide Rug: Click Here!

Tricolor Cowhide Rug: Click Here!

Sheep Skin Rug: Click Here!

Folex Carpet Spot Remover: Click Here!

Keep Dreaming, Designing & Dwelling…

Cheers!

Cortney

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Lifestyle Red

Dorm Sweet Dorm!


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Preparing to go off to college is exciting, but it can be a little overwhelming! More-than-likely you will be living in a small space, aka a dorm room, for the next nine months and to top it off you will probably be sharing it with a roommate. Being organized in a small space is key. Most universities will provide a floor plan with measurements to help you map out your space.

If you are going to have a roommate you may consider coordinating your bedding. This does not mean the bedding must be “matchy, matchy,” however picking a color palate will help your new small space not feel cluttered. For example, if your personality is more on the sporty side and your new roommate has expressed they are more fashion oriented and like soft colors, you could choose the color palate of navy and peach.

Ideas For the Gals!

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Ideas for the Guys!

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Once you have settled on a color palate I would first choose your bedding, as your bed will be the focal point of your small space. Next, stock up on storage bins and other organizational items. Putting you bed on risers will allow you to slide extra large storage trunks under your bed since your closet will probably be smaller than you are accustom to. Extra lighting is always a great idea as most dorm rooms only provide basic lighting. A throw blanket, shower caddy, towels and a laundry hamper are just a few other items you will need. Don’t forget to bring personal items like photos, keepsakes, electronics and anything else that makes your new space feel like home!

Storage Ideas, Essentials & Other Must Haves to Make You Feel at Home in Your Dorm! 

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Bed Risers Will Allow You to Add Extra Storage Under the Bed!

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A Shower Caddy Helps You Carry All of Your Essentials to the Bath!

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Under the Bed Storage Boxes will Help You Store Your Wardrobe Overflow.

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Instead of Dozens of Frames Consider Displaying Photos of Your Life on this Adorable Photo Wall “Clothing Line”!

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Store All of Your Daily Essentials Inside this Space Saver Over-the-Door Cabinet.

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Adding Extra Light to Your Dorm Room is a Must – No Studying or Getting Ready to “Go Out” in the Dark!

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Don’t Forget to Incorporate a Punch of Your Personality into Your Space.  These Light-up Letters Will Add a Pop of Whimsy to Your Space!

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Cozy up in your Home Away from Home with a Throw Blanket.  You will be Happy You Have an Extra Blanket if You Attend a School where Temperatures Plummet.

(All Dorm Room Ideas & Photos are Provided by PB Teen, Dormify, Bed Bath & Beyond)

I would love to hear from you!  Update me on your ideas … how are you planning on organizing your Dorm Sweet Dorm?

Keep Dreaming, Designing & Dwelling…

Cheers!

Cortney

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 Cortney Bailey

Let’s Go to the Movies, Inside OUT!!!

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One of the best things about summer is its nights! They are longer, carefree and in many cities the nights are warmer. Even though summer is half way over, there is still so much fun to be had! It’s time to have some intimate & creative family time or go crazy and invite the neighborhood over for “old fashion” becomes modern outdoor movie night!

Like any “event” there is a high & low way to produce it. I’ll show you how to create your perfect home outdoor movie night – no matter what your budget may be.

How to watch:

Obviously, you will need the tools to watch your movie.

  • If you have a larger budget you may consider contacting an audio/visual company that will provide the set up and break down of an oversized screen, projector and sound system. Some companies even provide outdoor seating for your backyard event at an additional cost. Since outdoor movie watching is becoming more of a trend, if you live in a large city like Dallas or Los Angeles, finding a rental company is pretty simple … just Google “outdoor movie night rental” and you will find a list of options.

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  • If you plan on having multiple movie nights on a regular basis you might consider purchasing your own oversized outdoor media screen and equipment. Large box companies like Target will have a selection.

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  • If your budget is small, you love a good DYI project or really want to capture an “old fashion” outdoor movie night, then you can easily build your own screen. You can either affix a large crisp white sheet (yes, if its wrinkled grab your iron … it will only take a few minutes to improve your movie experience) to the side of your home or staple the sheet to two plywood studs, fill two large buckets with rocks and wedge the ends of the studs into the buckets or wedge them into the ground. If you are on a tight budget you may consider renting a projector from your local library or you may choose to shop out the best-priced projector for future use.

How to stay comfortable:

  • If you own outdoor lawn or beach chairs that sit low to the ground or beanbag chairs, scatter them around your lawn for the ultimate comfy experience. If you do not own these and do not wish purchase them then go for the “old fashion” route and pull out bundles of blankets, beach towels and pillows for a great lounge feel.

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  • Depending on what part of the country you live, make sure your backyard is clear of ants and provide bug spray or set out bug away candles so that you, your family or friends do not suffer with bites. Also, if you live in the South you probably get to enjoy warm summer nights, however those of you on the coasts usually have a dip in the temperature as night falls, so make sure you set out extra sweatshirts or tell you friends to not forget theirs!

How to eat & stay merry:

  • The sky is really the limit on what you want to eat at your backyard movie night! A backyard BBQ before the sun sets always adds a festive atmosphere to your event!  Some ideas are good old fashion burgers, grilled chicken and hotdogs – the majority of people love being able to “build their own bun” and pick their sides. If you are going BIG consider hiring a food truck like In & Out or Mr. Hamburger to cater your night, however if there is an expert griller in the family or between friends why not DYI and cook at home!?! If you are waiting for your flick to start think about playing movie trivia beforehand.

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  • Next, don’t forget the beverages. Soda is always an option but if you do not intend to be up until the wee hours of the night you might opt for other ideas such as muddled drinks – think mint infused lemonade – vodka optional!  If you have kiddos in attendance and you also want to serve “adult beverages” consider having drink stations, one for the kids and one for the adults that way there is no confusion!

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  • Now for the fun part! Who can have movie night in their backyard without some delicious candy and popcorn? If you are having a large group to your movie night, a candy & popcorn bar is always fun to set up. This allows each guest to pick out their favorite sweets & corn, plus it’s an adorable touch for the night. If you are having a small group and know what sweets everyone likes, having it on hand will just make them feel special and you can pop your own corn and provide each person with their own bowl or bag!

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I hope this helps you create an amazing outdoor movie night at your home!  I would love to hear from you!  Tell me some of your ideas for movie night and what do you plan on watching?

Keep Dreaming, Designing & Dwelling…

Cheers!

Cortney

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Cortney Bailey

Fancy Floats for Every Pool!

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Summer is well under way but there is still plenty of time to make a SPLASH! If you want to add a little more Ta-Da to your backyard think about enhancing your pool-time with one of these adorable floats. Having a pool party? These amazing floating characters will definitely be a conversation starter, not-to-mention a fun accessory for photo ops! I guarantee family and friends of all ages will love these fabulous finds while they cool off, plus they are a great and practical way to update your backyard during the hot season!

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Play it cool and don’t sweat it! These floats can easily be ordered on line at either Nordstroms or Urban Outfitters!

I’d love to hear from you!  What’s your favorite way to stay cool this summer?

Keep Dreaming, Designing & Dwelling…

Cheers!

Cortney

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Cortney Bailey

It’s Time to Mix it Up in the Kitchen!

9852_San-Circle_tabsite_015Are you thinking about updating your kitchen or perhaps you have the luxury of building your dream home and are working on the design of your kitchen!?! Mixing cabinetry finishes and counter tops has gained major popularity in the last few years! Not only does it create a custom look, but at times it can actually be an advantage to your design budget! I personally love this look because it adds character to your kitchen plus it can look as if you placed a piece of furniture in your kitchen – for example, if your island is stained in a dark color and your cabinetry is either white or a lighter stain, then the island pops and literally looks like a piece of furniture has been set in the center of your kitchen! If you want to take the mix of design up a notch then consider also installing a different countertop on top of the island than in the rest of your kitchen counter space! Mixing cabinet finishes and different countertops does take extra thought and planning, however if done correctly, your kitchen –  one of the main rooms used in every home – will be the ultimate conversation piece and entertaining space amongst your family and friends!

***Fun Fact: All of the photos in this post are kitchens from my Real Estate Listings!***

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I’d love to hear from you! Tell me about your great design ideas in the kitchen!

Keep Dreaming, Designing & Dwelling!!!

Cheers!

Cortney Bailey

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Agate Wall – Seriously In Love!

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I took this gorgeous photo of a custom designed agate wall in a fabulous Palm Springs area home!  No filter was used to “doctor” the photo!  The wall is literally this fabulous.  I love when the lines of fashion and design are blurred so I wish I could have plucked one of these agate stones off the wall for a show stopping necklace!

I’d love to hear from you! Tell me about your great ideas in incorporating fashion into home design!

Keep Dreaming, Designing & Dwelling!!!

Cheers!

Cortney Bailey

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Easy Tips to Help Sell Your Home this Summer!

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There are pluses to putting your home on the market every season but the summer is a great way to let your home, shine inside and out! Remember summer is a time when families like to relocate because of the break in the school schedule. June is just around the corner so if you are thinking about selling your home or if your home is already “on the market,” I hope these easy tips will help you make your home stand out from the rest of the inventory!

 

1. Two Words: Curb Appeal!

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First impressions are everything so when a Buyer pulls up to your property make sure that your home has its best foot forward, because I guarantee the last five houses the Buyers just toured sure did! Beautiful, crisp green grass is key. Make sure that your lawn is mowed weekly and take advantage of the bright summer colors by adding pops of color with either potted flowers or planted flowers in the ground – their little faces are a cheerful way to greet the Buyers as they arrive! Also, make sure your front door’s welcome mat is new and fresh and not tattered.

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2. Your Pool is Cool!

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If your home has a pool, the summer is a great way to emphasize its “cool factor”. Keep it sparkling by daily scooping out the leaves! Keep all outdoor spaces around the pool such as decks and terraces and out door furniture clean and de-cluttered!

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3. Air It Out!

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During the cooler fall and winter seasons we keep our windows and doors closed tight and fires lit to maximize the cozy feel, however if you did not air out your home during “spring cleaning” then there is never a better time than now! Throw open those heavy drapes, open your home’s windows and doors and let the summer breeze and sun flood your home! Get the stuffy smells out and let the light shine! With daylight savings providing longer days some showings may be during twilight hours so make sure the outdoor light is able to flood through the windows allowing your home to have a dream-like feel.

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4. When in Doubt – Paint!

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Perhaps you painted a room a color that looked amazing on the paint chip but after it dried it was not a hit. If you do not think it looks amazing more-than-likely neither will the Buyer. If a room or hallway has too many scuffs or wear-and-tear marks a fresh coat of paint will do your home a world of wonder! I would highly suggest using white paint – it looks fresh and clean and it does not give Buyers the chance to have an opinion about a color – they are able to use their imagination on how they would use the room for their lifestyle!

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5. Refreshing Cocktail!

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Who does not love a refreshing summer cocktail!? Non-alcoholic of course! Take advantage of the summer heat and have cold bottled water, ice-tea or a craft of lemonade sitting out for the Buyers. After looking at a string of homes it’s a kind gesture to offer Buyers something refreshing to “wet their whistle”! A summer cocktail will not sale your home, but the Buyers will leave your home with a positive feeling … which is key!

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I’d love to hear from you! Let me know your great ideas to get a home sold this summer!

Keep Dreaming, Designing & Dwelling!!!

Cheers!

Cortney Bailey

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Lemonade Living Room!!!

Cheers to the Freaking Weekend!  TGIF!!!  I came across this photo today and could not resist posting this fantastic room.  I call it the “Lemonade Living Room” as it reminds me of the refreshing drink on a hot Spring or Summer day.  I love the fresh sophisticated crisp black & white room with pops of Chartreuse and Hot Pink!  What a happy room!

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I’d love to hear from you!  What colors in a room make you happy?!

Keep Dreaming, Designing & Dwelling!!!

Cheers!

Cortney Bailey

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For Like Ever!!!

photo 2Valentines Day to me is all about LOVING Your Space, everyday! Make your home your wonderland by filling it with furniture, art and items that make you feel HAPPY! In honor of “The Day of Love” here are several prints by Super Rural that will be a great addition to your space or a fabulous gift to yourself, your love, your friend, your kids or your family! As you can see the prints come in a rainbow of colors and several neutral options that will all look amazing in any space from Modern to Traditional to Collectic!

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“For Like Ever” Prints

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“& Love”, “For Like Ever” and “You + Me” Prints

What do you LOVE about your space?  Do you do anything special to your home for Valentine’s Day?  I’d love to hear from you and know your ideas so leave me a comment below or swing by one of my listed social media sites below and share your ideas with everyone!

Keep Dreaming, Designing & Dwelling!!!

Cheers!
Cortney Bailey

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What’s Your Threshold? New Spring Collection for Target is Out!

Threshold for Target has done it again!  Mixing elements such as faux shell, brass, wood, tufting, scalloping and sophisticated color, Threshold provides gorgeous options to update your space for Spring 2014! Their collection of Gold, Ivory, Black and Fuchsia is almost endless so I narrowed it down to some of my favorite pieces.

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 Honeycomb Gold Foiled Table Lamp with Butterfly Shade · Faux Shell Inlay Tray · Ranuculus & Peony in Gold Vase · Tufted Bench · Gold Honeycomb Accent Table · Oblong Velvet Pillow · Wood & Brass Finish Bar Cart · Scalloped Wall Mirror · Pink & Gold Tufted Ottoman · Color Block Woven Baskets · Faux Shell Inlay Decorative Box 

Do you like this new collection?  What are your favorite pieces?  I’d love to hear from you and know your ideas so leave me a comment below or swing by one of my listed social media sites below and share your ideas with everyone!

Keep Dreaming, Designing & Dwelling!!!

Cheers!
Cortney Bailey

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