Belgian Dream House

<div align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ04ZIn0wI/AAAAAAAAG0c/w2Sny20fJ2M/s1600-h/Arcobaleno%206%20doors%20to%20lr%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="Arcobaleno 6 doors to lr" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ042i3iaI/AAAAAAAAG0g/O4wUxmLWg3Y/Arcobaleno%206%20doors%20to%20lr_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Arcobaleno 6 doors to lr" width="504" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 130%;">I adore the Belgian style and when I stumbled upon this home from </span><a href="http://www.arcobaleno.ws/home.html"><span style="font-size: 130%;">Arcobaleno</span></a><span style="font-size: 130%;"> I knew I had to share it with you. Take a long look at the photo above. the antique doors open to the most stunning of rooms.</span></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ045URPoI/AAAAAAAAG0k/RO2ZOXdYXqg/s1600-h/Arcobaleno%202%20%20LR%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="Arcobaleno 2 LR" border="0" height="335" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ05D0cPgI/AAAAAAAAG0o/D5AMNNxsmRs/Arcobaleno%202%20%20LR_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Arcobaleno 2 LR" width="504" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 130%;">The fireplace is truly a work of art!</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 130%;"></span><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ05u8UwhI/AAAAAAAAG0s/kdsN11C66-o/s1600-h/Arcobaleno%204%20Fireplace%20close%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="Arcobaleno 4 Fireplace close" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ0521UALI/AAAAAAAAG0w/zmAgvKL2dWI/Arcobaleno%204%20Fireplace%20close_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Arcobaleno 4 Fireplace close" width="504" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 130%;">Here is a closer look. The shape is beautiful but also notice the fireback in the fireplace and the wide wood floors. They looked pickled or bleached. So pretty.</span></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ06OY3MiI/AAAAAAAAG00/oWg8mev17Tk/s1600-h/Arcobaleno%203%20%20Sweedish%20cupboardLR%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="Arcobaleno 3 Sweedish cupboardLR" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ06fvkUKI/AAAAAAAAG04/0VLGMHGJP-Q/Arcobaleno%203%20%20Sweedish%20cupboardLR_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Arcobaleno 3 Sweedish cupboardLR" width="504" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 130%;">Above is a close up of the Swedish corner cabinet. But take a closer look at the plaster treatment on the walls – Decorating well is a layering process– starting with these incredible walls, adding the lovely antiques and accessories create a warmth and unparalleled patina. </span></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ06mBJr8I/AAAAAAAAG08/NRjspEDI0bQ/s1600-h/Arcobaleno%205%20doors%20to%20kitchen%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="Arcobaleno 5 doors to kitchen" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ0616AF1I/AAAAAAAAG1A/BEL0u7VIkDU/Arcobaleno%205%20doors%20to%20kitchen_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Arcobaleno 5 doors to kitchen" width="504" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 130%;">Here is the view looking from the family room into the kitchen. Notice the stacks of books on the bench and the house model. Again little details that add to the beauty of this home. Also take a closer look at the kitchen. You can see the interesting cabinets which go directly to the ceiling. Also notice the stacks of bowls under the center island.</span></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ07MyG2HI/AAAAAAAAG1E/o0z7HvB4RHA/s1600-h/Arcobaleno%207drawers%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="Arcobaleno 7drawers" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ07C4Z9BI/AAAAAAAAG1I/3vZ9fAw26ec/Arcobaleno%207drawers_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Arcobaleno 7drawers" width="504" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 130%;">A close up of the cabinet drawers above the stove. Notice how the enamel plaques are aged.</span></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ07eJFMFI/AAAAAAAAG1M/8ub_bfVHAmA/s1600-h/Arcobaleno%209%20kitchen%20cups%5B6%5D.jpg"><img alt="Arcobaleno 9 kitchen cups" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ07n5u2kI/AAAAAAAAG1Q/mYb3aPLkVQY/Arcobaleno%209%20kitchen%20cups_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Arcobaleno 9 kitchen cups" width="504" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 130%;">Dishes and bowls are stacked on shelving- these mirror the bowls under the center island. I love the rusty scrolled brackets.</span></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ0715E8RI/AAAAAAAAG1U/5gftsbXFc9I/s1600-h/Arcobaleno%208%20kitchen%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="Arcobaleno 8 kitchen" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ08AmkWcI/AAAAAAAAG1Y/C8qtXMUyHJA/Arcobaleno%208%20kitchen_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Arcobaleno 8 kitchen" width="504" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 130%;">A view from the center island looking towards the eating area. The long wall of built in cabinetry is to die for. The crystal chandelier is perfect choice. With the large window I am sure it sparkles all day long.</span></div><br /><div align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ08R7zPhI/AAAAAAAAG1c/1IeqQ_OXoQs/s1600-h/Arcobaleno%2010%20dr%5B3%5D.jpg"><img alt="Arcobaleno 10 dr" border="0" height="754" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/TcZ08s7_hQI/AAAAAAAAG1g/rv_jNvIXnEc/Arcobaleno%2010%20dr_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Arcobaleno 10 dr" width="504" /></a></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 130%;">A closer view of the dining area and chandelier. A stunning room. To see more gorgeous interiors and antiques visit Arcobaleno </span><strong><span style="color: blue; font-size: 130%;"><a href="http://www.arcobaleno.ws/home.html">HERE</a></span></strong></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 130%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0000ee;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5604295663653534642" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2KPK4pxYoszRLfpSEnf3WuoKuxjJP5SYOrcao2X6MhdWlhVvbDItWzvzvH_Cqr7rugHCxJHzBrEDBV1VffYugV_DFpr55X2lp3pp-vMj0jvvhjxSTNOzgyj4TS9G3rBHSUG6_jNB0T36/s400/140781_max.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 266px;" /></span></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 130%;">Wishing all the Mother’s a very relaxing and special Mother’s Day!</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="font-size: 78%;">(All images Arcobaleno.  All content property of Willow Décor and not to be copied with out permission)</span></div>

Belgian Dream House

I adore the Belgian style and when I stumbled upon this home from Arcobaleno I knew I had to share it with you. Take a long look at the pho...

Read more »

Another Secret Shopping Spot - DOMUS

<div align="center"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493342315977015314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIH41sOeqJWnbv1KtmRrU3p843QPPqETL9oLeEWolw_CCnKozv3FykRzHSg_Y5mNCD0NWgRaAWAdYRUji2UZaLRO_WXkUrc-kjp3HTOigOezPURy-g9i6qcoS6Yy1CawHUU6IdHMznfk3H/s400/Home+1A+Open+01sep09+024.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">This week kicks off the Brimfield Fair; the famous antique show in Massachusetts. I am always excited to head west of Boston, but recently its not because the Brimfield Fair, but because of a secret shopping spot I found along the way. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493764661558991026" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0opJG0JSUY8iaSosmJjyFCYeEt4YYBxzGI32r8567elc-J7x0zp8w_-cx6oPA7FcctdHJFGQ34Nozks0dExB37ue-WrNb_KisM2_jqkeqKE_fERV7IGp5rxRNpg_ulALiC_6teFQ-LEOL/s400/domus.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 190px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 349px; CURSOR: hand" /></span></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">The store is called <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sturbridge-MA/DOMuS-X/104767022901419?v=info&ref=search">DOMUS</a> and is open year round. It is filled with wonderful treasures. Gorgeous antiques, unusual reproductions, fabulous accessories. It is one of my most secret spots for finding wonderful unique items for the homes of my clients (and myself!).</span></span></div><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline" class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493341955917546898" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtqNZFF4T36LABrXGQ1-NnYyoV_RrQsirWxqVeF9FLutIbp7IbMvWa2RRvYZ8grhUkDCgDA0xbJOK3oKZXvVTeLwGCZhvsBh5QwXy5Q8JFZVLf7WONItzgYjkGM6bOct5Gjq40NGG4Y1m_/s400/home+5+-+alex+Verellen!.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span> <div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sturbridge-MA/DOMuS-X/104767022901419?v=info&ref=search">DOMUS</a> formerly known as HOME, located in historic Sturbridge, MA is the brainchild of the famous Alex Pifer of the hugely successful <a href="http://www.theseraph.com/default.asp">SERAPH</a> store. If you are a fan of the primitive, colonial decorating style you will know that Alex is icon. Over the years she has been featured numerous times in Country Living, Primitive Homes and several other magazines. Her eye and attention to detail has made the most discerning collector come back to the SERAPH again and again. But, Alex is a multi-dimensional and multi-talented designer and buyer. She has ventured into the world of Swedish, French and Belgian decor. And, as you can guess like everything else she does, her new venture is outstanding. Let's have look:</span></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline" class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493341450486319698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi66CDR40-aMSB9C3qr_YxFdRdC8_hxQaCAv83x1rfAYIDatXIvkE-61c4qIcUY0Ia977F8tBsbPYVXfthxEM6gxxwzNo05swOGH5BzD7ZfFp7n_22C2SOJmLQwetHb6sQObDJp0biNhiu/s400/home12+02JUN09+015+(2).JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">On the property right next to the <a href="http://www.theseraph.com/default.asp">SERAPH</a>, Alex and her charming husband had a spectacular Post and Beam shop built to house the gorgeous DOMUS inventory. Here a pair of gorgeous armchairs are covered in grainsack slipcovers. Notice the garden table and statuary and how wonderfully it goes together.</span></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nClsIlsu9Lxcog0JGP1qMvmnDaUpH_2ufjdtQb-J8GSabXWpXtbT6sDeDu6truhmJ97TF18OR6edB41n8UU2D1SjZGofuEStV1rB-JCAqI3cs-vHoPhD8BI0Ig_MFjdYfVpsFWn9CkNi/s1600/home10++by+alex_128.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493341431956405378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7nClsIlsu9Lxcog0JGP1qMvmnDaUpH_2ufjdtQb-J8GSabXWpXtbT6sDeDu6truhmJ97TF18OR6edB41n8UU2D1SjZGofuEStV1rB-JCAqI3cs-vHoPhD8BI0Ig_MFjdYfVpsFWn9CkNi/s400/home10++by+alex_128.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: pointer" /></a></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Here is a beautiful reproduction chaise covered in linen. The finish on this piece is incredible.</span></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline" class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493341928751454178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq5bArXfL9j0YtuKWdBliMcoleYjzkP183pI9wIWmzPyBdRug4y07jY7Ss1B7DGmF4CNLGEsu6QLKjDMODt2lJ5N8lqBOuGZAahF8Ucjq_GccqDSBMdeHEq8KLbytyWRdrY745zKTVIUcc/s400/home13+02JUN09+036+(2).JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">The displays in the store are worth seeing. Alex and her staff, including the talented, Laura, do a fantastic job of putting things together. You can guess how much I fell in love with this vignette.</span></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuu_QMVNOletGDlKdloBShDkymAyah0G8mC92y_6mYbqN-ZNY2aCnibYR9pLnhCM4yzGEJ_TJp_37wTOhTGc_FhoUfh7hlpXiJxCsKfVmj_jMyBnuRB7VPmEgO0K-40fiBOGrkz40NnEGZ/s1600/home+9+Swedish+27jun10+070.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493342289933482866" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuu_QMVNOletGDlKdloBShDkymAyah0G8mC92y_6mYbqN-ZNY2aCnibYR9pLnhCM4yzGEJ_TJp_37wTOhTGc_FhoUfh7hlpXiJxCsKfVmj_jMyBnuRB7VPmEgO0K-40fiBOGrkz40NnEGZ/s400/home+9+Swedish+27jun10+070.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: pointer" /></a></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">DOMUS has an incredible selection of antique mercury glass, grainsack covered furniture and Swedish antiques.</span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitorhijkFvE39qT1u1Qss5Q1Fqtk5hJG_Vip6FsTV9wBofJnVYHnsm7ebzFKjVaqk6bkUBYnYX5VlQiARtmVw1p_Plq6uaNMADbkN9s667yOtfrcdAtaDaFE2LvAZGMVghnRfu_gvnCdEJ/s1600/home7+un2109+012.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493340675720949938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitorhijkFvE39qT1u1Qss5Q1Fqtk5hJG_Vip6FsTV9wBofJnVYHnsm7ebzFKjVaqk6bkUBYnYX5VlQiARtmVw1p_Plq6uaNMADbkN9s667yOtfrcdAtaDaFE2LvAZGMVghnRfu_gvnCdEJ/s400/home7+un2109+012.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: pointer" /></a></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">But if you like a more refined look, you can find it here as well. Another fabulous vignette; and it has a completely different feel. With such an incredible collection to choose from its easy to find spectacular items for myself and my clients.</span></span><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493342295417907602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz7MeXL6sHCUQDOZEoBAzYEQsjVvjDNs1B9cOGVihPEcBR2tlkKRxb2w8udFXxwNXv2G227qJIE31i6s5FvmcT9zPakWGGfaC75ZR53ycGE03Kt-yO4TxPrKXNDhVwQcN_EBvu3ydHup27/s400/home+16+27jun10+066.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: hand" /> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">The store is very large. Here is a more contemporary look. I just adore the linen sofa.</span></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align="center"><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline" class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493341941182725874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwgXiA7TSjLqZw_bqLJKLuIY0-uZvSWggmtYYnyGFPplRIn111NghXdYr3eMSXuPFIJ4LzQNwr5b40Pbaoc_v39vGHry6S4kDIUCqB2Iqa-Rp_Y1sQUE9dYC89Gi5pfEd9qILBAwdzwlsB/s400/home15+7jun10+086.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">DOMUS is not limited to living room and dining room decor. Above is a beautiful French bedroom set. Notice the lighting as well, Alex has chosen a wonderful mix of lighting options for the most discerning customers.</span></span><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline" class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493341922791271954" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1wKeApjJudxo_QaZKjZ3izjWDR6EX-LuIe9NQBzwtrhhV-JB8twkQkz4NlOtMshfGKxBGatoHySaQlFTflaHQie5EUU0qqrL3DORTnyfy-Oq7SUvX66a9Zlq_x5vvS-yMOrcdMgIx9e5i/s400/home14+27jun10+087.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">On my most recent visit I was enamored with this dining room table and chairs. Notice the urns and the birdhouse. </span></span></div><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline" class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493340662937572258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggOBqacwBaBV1pItsThgY5g2yxOq-_t2h1eqldHOL3dXp6icXdbNzOzq3w_E5Ls6Bbh2blDwxnyzuzKe_-Xk7gVN_lk_d53zlp6pRM6MY2jV0kXOnwTDa8YlTkqaKo5q-52SIDyqHtgfSU/s400/Home4+27jun10+079.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 225px; CURSOR: pointer" /> <p align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">It is a common theme at DOMUS to mix garden items with more formal indoor items.</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></p><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-DU9JKC7gwuLFk4c5Yh5I4VlNaFRuwlAdOJmyRO07vyh9ARxuw19eVSTQN7ODmXurvRBeteQsdEnUrIt5_df-AxxcBeaBIxdpLTEu7TbGCuWh2CC8118Dod37Y84tTxtWYACkCO4nYwuR/s1600/Home+1A+Open+01sep09+024.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493341948176244962" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-DU9JKC7gwuLFk4c5Yh5I4VlNaFRuwlAdOJmyRO07vyh9ARxuw19eVSTQN7ODmXurvRBeteQsdEnUrIt5_df-AxxcBeaBIxdpLTEu7TbGCuWh2CC8118Dod37Y84tTxtWYACkCO4nYwuR/s400/Home+1A+Open+01sep09+024.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">This mirror stopped me in my tracks. Isn't it stunning? You will rarely see the same thing twice here. </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:15;"><span style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; " class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493341441877241314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqAKIrN2zBucNloLepL440FSoBptONOO2UJngRlApPvWe7LOjJOXcxfxrWRBQ7L8-5iaNYpCEdFQLwZV79Y8nCJxkLuq7FI4TdQ5lQ9Fbfs39tJS7hCGWTFLXpUGfJbatbnRwQ6GLVIgJU/s400/home11+oct2008-feb2009+012+(2).JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Alex prides herself in obtaining the unique. So if you want to find something extraordinary that no one else has, this is the place. </span></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5DMyMb5XedKGBCoLgTU61Nr1IoZ4Pt5a2fqjtWAmW6Py7qkhXdE0MlymVV3XbP64K_XLLpRFQFac6t_NZBtwgK3KCu1EaF0RegwUlTsbeSXDaoMHRvrv9_TvMj9zM_UwDsfFIGQwUdbr/s1600/home6+28may10+035.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493340667227191602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5DMyMb5XedKGBCoLgTU61Nr1IoZ4Pt5a2fqjtWAmW6Py7qkhXdE0MlymVV3XbP64K_XLLpRFQFac6t_NZBtwgK3KCu1EaF0RegwUlTsbeSXDaoMHRvrv9_TvMj9zM_UwDsfFIGQwUdbr/s400/home6+28may10+035.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">So of course you are thinking that wonderful unique items like this are just too expensive and out of reach - I almost don't want you to know...the prices are very reasonable! So my secret is out - I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!!!</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></div></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sturbridge-MA/DOMuS-X/104767022901419?v=info&ref=search"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">DOMUS</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"> is a 45 minute drive from downtown Boston. To see more of their ever changing inventory click their </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sturbridge-MA/DOMuS-X/104767022901419?ref=search"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Facebook page here</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">. To get directions </span><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=420+Main+St+%28Building+2%29%2C+Sturbridge%2C+MA+01566"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">click here</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">. And when you head out there, do tell Alex and Laura hello from Gina at Willow Decor. I know you will be glad you made the trip. (Out of state customers can call the store directly as they ship anywhere in the US!)</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">PS. Sturbridge is wonderful town to visit - plan to stay for lunch at one of the many little cafes and inns</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">.</span></div></span>

Another Secret Shopping Spot - DOMUS

This week kicks off the Brimfield Fair; the famous antique show in Massachusetts. I am always excited to head west of Boston, but recently i...

Read more »

My Breakfast Room and Family Room Reveal

<div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439227793008720498" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3wE3Aa3enI/AAAAAAAAEGc/xS58YzPIAtM/s400/DSC_0634_2.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: pointer" /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align="center"><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline" class="Apple-style-span"></span><span style="color:#000000;">When I bought my house I knew we would need to enlarge the kitchen and family room area. The previous owners were empty <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">nesters</span></span></span> and although the layout worked for them, it was not appropriate for our growing family.</span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline" class="Apple-style-span"><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: nonecolor:#000000;" class="Apple-style-span" ><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3v-omhtlbI/AAAAAAAAEFE/E6RWaup9wBU/s1600-h/Kitchen.BMP"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439220948470175154" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3v-omhtlbI/AAAAAAAAEFE/E6RWaup9wBU/s400/Kitchen.BMP" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: pointer" /></a></span></span></span></div><p align="center"><span style="color:#000000;">This before picture was taken during our home inspection. At this point the previous owners had removed much of their family room furniture - all that remained was their small kitchen table and some odd chairs. You can see that the wall of windows was about 3 feet beyond the solid wall. A larger table would have ended up looming into the Family room space. So, when we were ready to renovate we pushed back the wall and added an additional nine feet to create a dedicated breakfast room. </span><span style="color:#000000;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439228671641747074" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3wFqJlTfoI/AAAAAAAAEG0/f6sU7aaHoeQ/s400/DSC_0635_2.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: pointer" />Here is the breakfast room after!</span></p><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align="center"><span style="color:#000000;">We recessed the ceiling and added <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">beadboard</span></span></span> and crown moulding to match the treatment we added in the kitchen. </span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align="center"></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align="center"><span style="color:#000000;">I vacillated for months over the light fixture, but finally decided on the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Niermann</span></span></span> Weeks Italian Chandelier with an antiqued silvered finish. (Actually I vacillated over spending the money or not spending the money - I always knew it was just perfect) In the end, it was my husband's sage advice that made me order it - "You will look at this everyday, all day, for years - buy what you love!" I am so glad I listened to him (He says its one of the only times!)</span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3wE29BgGsI/AAAAAAAAEGU/ynq4YTu39uE/s1600-h/DSC_0609.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span style="color:#000000;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439227792097024706" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3wE29BgGsI/AAAAAAAAEGU/ynq4YTu39uE/s400/DSC_0609.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" /></span></a><span style="color:#000000;"> Here you can see that we added three windows on each side to keep the original feeling.</span></div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align="center"><span style="color:#000000;">I found a wonderful Belgian wrought iron table with old wood top that fit the space perfectly. Wisteria had a bench that was just the right size and I topped it with a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">grainsack</span></span></span>! The linen curtains were a steal, only $20. a panel, a close-out from Country Curtains; all they needed was a little doctoring. </span><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underlinecolor:#000000;" class="Apple-style-span" ><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439220944783646082" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3v-oYyxnYI/AAAAAAAAEE8/TO_N7B3aFGw/s400/kitchen4.BMP" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align="center"><span style="color:#000000;">You might remember that at this time I also took out the over head cabinets between the Family Room and Kitchen area and removed four lower cabinets to create more of a center island.</span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3wE2emkx7I/AAAAAAAAEGM/3DqupQDt_UU/s1600-h/DSC_0606.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span style="color:#000000;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439227783931021234" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3wE2emkx7I/AAAAAAAAEGM/3DqupQDt_UU/s400/DSC_0606.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" /></span></a><span style="color:#000000;"> Here you can see how much better the space feels. Removing the upper cabinets also allowed you to see the recessed ceiling area in the kitchen. We spiffed that up a bit by adding the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">beadboard</span></span></span> and crown moulding details.<br /></span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3v-oClRIaI/AAAAAAAAEE0/keLceE_9OOE/s1600-h/Kitchen2.BMP"><span style="color:#000000;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439220938821411234" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3v-oClRIaI/AAAAAAAAEE0/keLceE_9OOE/s400/Kitchen2.BMP" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span></a><span style="color:#000000;"> Here is the Family Room before. This is directly across from the center island. The size is deceiving as the back wall is over 13 feet wide.<br /></span><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline" class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439241468737278050" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3wRTCeo0GI/AAAAAAAAEHE/TRfGNSmF7IM/s400/DSC_0640_2.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span> Here is the Family Room after. We added the window on the right to match the rest of the back. It was a great addition as it brings in so much light to what used to be a shadowy area. The mantel above the couch I found in the trash on the side of a road many years ago. It has an original workman's label from 1881. What a find!! I just love the feeling it brings to the space. Lamps are from Aidan Gray and the mirror is from Wisteria - It came in gold so I silver leafed it one afternoon.<br /></span><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline" class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439220951592895186" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3v-oyKOgtI/AAAAAAAAEFM/t0l7mobCZk8/s400/Kitchen7.BMP" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span> Here is the before looking from the Kitchen area out toward the Family Room area. Notice the wonderful ceiling detail that was hidden from view before we removed the upper bank of cabinets.<br /></span><span style="color:#000000;"><span style="COLOR: rgb(0,0,238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline" class="Apple-style-span"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439244028917605458" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3wToD5MZFI/AAAAAAAAEHM/xnop8OYrDm0/s400/DSC_0647.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span> And here is another photo of the after. Notice the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">addition</span> of the crown moulding. The chairs are my old yellow club chairs, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">slipcovered</span></span></span> in the same close-out linen from Country Curtains- a steal at $6 yard. I think they are bit <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">oversized</span></span></span>, but until I find what I am looking for they were an inexpensive fix.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439224304197168962" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3wBr7lX70I/AAAAAAAAEFU/NsSY6eDnokk/s400/kitchen3.BMP" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: pointer" /> </span><span style="color:#000000;">Here is the TV cabinet - notice the size of the TV that fit in it.</span><span style="color:#000000;"> </span><p align="center"><span style="color:#000000;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439346383898068818" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3xwt56Mx1I/AAAAAAAAEHk/BTPd9_KkoAY/s400/DSC_0604.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: pointer" />We added a gas <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">fireplace,</span> mantel and surrounded the area with crown moulding. We also placed a much larger TV above. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Winter</span> is long here so the fireplace makes <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">the space</span> so much more cozy. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439245350364000754" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3wU0-qkMfI/AAAAAAAAEHU/YV7KBdhum6s/s400/DSC_0596.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span></p></div><div align="center"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3wEbbho-VI/AAAAAAAAEFs/ArRCYgiXC4Q/s1600-h/DSC_0602.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><span style="color:#000000;">This is the full view of the new space if you are standing in front of the fireplace.</span></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3v-omhtlbI/AAAAAAAAEFE/E6RWaup9wBU/s1600-h/Kitchen.BMP"><span style="color:#000000;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439220948470175154" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3v-omhtlbI/AAAAAAAAEFE/E6RWaup9wBU/s400/Kitchen.BMP" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></span></a><span style="color:#000000;"> </span><p align="center"><span style="color:#000000;">From this...</span></p><div align="center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3wFqJlTfoI/AAAAAAAAEG0/f6sU7aaHoeQ/s1600-h/DSC_0635_2.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span style="color:#000000;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439228671641747074" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S3wFqJlTfoI/AAAAAAAAEG0/f6sU7aaHoeQ/s400/DSC_0635_2.JPG" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: pointer" /></span></a><span style="color:#000000;"> To this...</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;color:#000000;">(click to enlarge)</span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#000000;">A final thought - I have received some email recently about rooms done by decorators that are considered "high-end" and not accessible to the average person. I just want to share with you that not all things that look expensive actually are expensive. Beauty does not have a price tag. Do not be afraid to mix $20 curtains and mantels you find in the trash with expensive <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">chandeliers</span>, or reproductions from mail order catalogs with real antiques. Trust what you love and it will all come <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_9" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">together</span>. It's not about the price, it's about surrounding yourself with things you enjoy. </span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#000000;">We really enjoy our new space - I hope you do too!!</span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">To see more of my house click <a href="http://willowdecor.blogspot.com/search/label/My%20House">here</a>.</div><div align="center"><span style="color:#000000;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">(all photos Willow Decor please do not copy without permission)</span></div>

My Breakfast Room and Family Room Reveal

When I bought my house I knew we would need to enlarge the kitchen and family room area. The previous owners were empty nesters and althoug...

Read more »

Belgian Factory Restored

<div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1fMmYwyqWI/AAAAAAAADz4/VrxdG433Wqo/s1600-h/z-marie+claire+Belgian+kitchen+2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429032835672615266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1fMmYwyqWI/AAAAAAAADz4/VrxdG433Wqo/s400/z-marie+claire+Belgian+kitchen+2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Some of my favorite magazines are from France and Belgium. I recently saw this wonderful Brussels home that was originally a mirror factory and wanted to share it with you.<br /><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dK92U8-OI/AAAAAAAADzw/sfyaIHpNcFQ/s1600-h/z-marie+claire+Brussells.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428890302234294498" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dK92U8-OI/AAAAAAAADzw/sfyaIHpNcFQ/s400/z-marie+claire+Brussells.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>The owner, an artist, has lovingly restored and refurbished the factory over the course of several years. The dining room above features a naturally worn farm table and a collection of antique cream chairs with a wonderful patina. The cupboard is made from several old pieces of wood and houses only part of the owners extensive glass collection. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428889226319502898" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dJ_OO4HjI/AAAAAAAADzQ/lq8fc0-SDIw/s400/z-marie+claire+Belgian+Hall.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> The large entry is painted a beautiful buttery cream while the ceilings and upper mouldings are painted a contrasting white. The doors and built in mirrors add to the already light filled space. An antique woodworker's table is a beautiful place to display the owners collection of vintage hats. The light fixture is from IKEA.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428889234312656290" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dJ_sAl9aI/AAAAAAAADzg/InDRrvj2_V8/s400/z-marie+claire+Belgian+kitchen+2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> The kitchen is so wonderfully rustic. Old library shelving is painted white and used to display the huge collection of dishes and serving pieces. An antique library ladder is used to retrieve those items too high to reach. Notice the thickness of the shelves; thicker shelves were created to handle the weight of the different types of crockery. I love the interesting contrast of the industrial style faucet.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428889229101761746" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dJ_YmOBNI/AAAAAAAADzY/NxFjYtBmEgY/s400/z-marie+claire+Belgian+kitchen.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> The owners extensive glass collection is housed in an antique museum case that was painted a soft white to match the walls and highlight the glass. A collection of old unmatched chairs were also painted in soft pastels which unify them. The soft colors and leaning antique mirror add to airiness of the room. Interestingly the light fixture, which matches the entry fixture is also from IKEA. </div><div align="center"><div align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dJ_0R87NI/AAAAAAAADzo/BIa-WhKM4JU/s1600-h/z-marie+claire+Belgian+library.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428889236532948178" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dJ_0R87NI/AAAAAAAADzo/BIa-WhKM4JU/s400/z-marie+claire+Belgian+library.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> The library, which doubles as the owners studio is washed in gray paint. The library shelving was also painted and holds the owners extensive collection of books. A vintage stepladder makes the high shelves accessible. I love the wide pine floors, softened from years of use left natural and waxed. The light in this room is just fabulous.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428888837881135298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dJonL9AMI/AAAAAAAADy4/BXkIKRUKtcM/s400/z-marie+claire+Belgian+Bedroom.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></div><div align="center">One of several bedrooms -I included this room because I adore the wall moulding. </div><div align="center"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dJpLWxc4I/AAAAAAAADzI/XnMt_PlxA0U/s1600-h/z-marie+claire+BelgianBath.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428888847590192002" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dJpLWxc4I/AAAAAAAADzI/XnMt_PlxA0U/s400/z-marie+claire+BelgianBath.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Here is the adjacent bath. I like the mix of pieces in this space. The antique painted table looks so interesting with the reproduction tub.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dJo1VHwaI/AAAAAAAADzA/3iSBjuDtdxg/s1600-h/z-marie+claire+Belgian+Painting.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428888841677685154" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dJo1VHwaI/AAAAAAAADzA/3iSBjuDtdxg/s400/z-marie+claire+Belgian+Painting.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> This is the trompe-l'oeil<span style="color:#ffff00;"> </span>bedroom. A closer look reveals a wall of canvas painted by the owner to look like pillows and headboard. A vintage industrial metal stool serves as night stand.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dJoqpikDI/AAAAAAAADyw/3K8izSQ18Yg/s1600-h/z-marie+claire+Belgian+Dressing+room.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428888838810538034" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_tSGOcFKOoqI/S1dJoqpikDI/AAAAAAAADyw/3K8izSQ18Yg/s400/z-marie+claire+Belgian+Dressing+room.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Finally another bath - I just adore the way the owner painted/washed the wall in a soft green. An antique cupboard holds extra towels and sundries for guests.<br /><br />For more information about this wonderful factory turned home in Brussels click<a href="http://www.marieclairemaison.com/,une-chambre-en-trompe-l-oeil,200264,40498,8"> here</a>.<br /><br /><div align="left">.</div><span style="font-size:78%;">(all photos marieclairemaison)</span><br /></div></div></div>

Belgian Factory Restored

Some of my favorite magazines are from France and Belgium. I recently saw this wonderful Brussels home that was originally a mirror factory...

Read more »