Affordable Interior Design

What the $****#$ Fridays: Down Off the Farm

2012-02-03T11:54:00.002-05:00

A big no no in interior design: decorating with farm animals. I don't care if you live in Vermont on 40 acres. I don't care if you're a ranch hand in Montana. There is no excuse for chicken effigies, cow print pillows, or, in this particular instance, a Piggyback Planter ($25, was $39). VivaTerra really missed the mark on this atrocious item which would be better sent to slaughter--a pretty tough sentiment on this What the $****#$ Friday.

Table Trifecta

2012-02-02T13:37:00.002-05:00

Finding a rectangular dining table perfectly sized for an apartment is no problem. Finding a round table with extension with a diameter narrow enough for NYC is quite a trick. Luckily, I just found my new go-to piece, World Market's Sophia Table. It has a small size, transitional style, and low price point ($149, was $279)--my design trifecta!

Which Way to the Sale?

2012-02-01T00:25:00.003-05:00

Looking for a "special" pillow to help you move on up "uptown"? Look no further than Pottery Barn's Patch Pillows. Each design is now $9.99 (was $29). For an unexpected look in a place like New York City, these pillows are perfect!

TMI Tuesday: An Epiphany!

2012-01-31T11:43:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I had an epiphany! I was super busy--too busy to blog. I was sourcing items for several different clients. Many of those pieces were sale items. While sourcing, it occurred to me that I should feature items I find for my clients on my blog. So here goes...

Overstock.com's Hand-Tufted Dharima Rug was just the thing to pull an entire studio apartment together yesterday. The client was a Broadway dancer with a bohemian style. We paired this lovely and affordable rug ($209, originally $440) with graphic bedding and pale blue wall paint, making the whole space sing--and dance!

What the $****#$ Fridays: Jonathan Let Me Down

2012-01-27T00:00:00.002-05:00

Jonathan Let Me Down! No, I am not rehashing a tale of a past boyfriend. I am talking about Jonathan Adler--my design boyfriend. Generally, I love nearly everything he makes. But he really missed the mark with his 9 Circles Pillow ($75, was $98) from PillowsandThrows.com. I never thought I'd use the words blah and boring to describe his stuff. But with this pillow, those adjectives seem to fit.

A Cheaper Circuit

2012-01-26T00:00:00.003-05:00

Every now and again I use Crate and Barrel's Circuit Wall Votive Holder (below). At $149, I think it is a pretty good deal for a large piece of wall art that is atmospheric but also masculine. However, I just found an amazing knock-off at a steal of a price! ZGallerie's Collage Sconce (above) is my new go-to piece at only $69 (was $79). Bye, Bye, Crate and Barrel!

Old Ion-sides

2012-01-25T00:00:00.002-05:00

Every seat should have a side table. So I am constantly in search of chic ones--like West Elm's Ion Glass Round Side Table (now $99, was $199).

TMI Tuesday: Must Floss at All Costs!

2012-01-24T00:00:00.001-05:00

For the past few years, I have been addicted to flossing. I must do it every night or I can't go to sleep. I don't need much incentive--it feels fabulous and is said to increase your life span by 2 years. Now I just need to convince my husband of its benefits. I think he'd be more inclined to give it a try if I got him Fred Flares' Breakfast Floss Set. At only $4 (was $12), it's worth a try!

Addie Another Light to Your Space

2012-01-23T12:48:00.003-05:00

As anyone who has taken my design classes will tell you, I love lots of light in every space. The more lights and lamps you have the different moods you will be able to set. Turn all on the lights for that craft project. Turn off a few for a romantic dinner. So, if you are looking for more lighting to add, look no further than Ballard Design's Addie Pendant ($129, was $189).

What the $****#$ Fridays: I Don't Think Sole!

2012-01-20T00:00:00.003-05:00

I don't think I'd wanna display my stinky soles in my living room. And I certainly wouldn't want to highlight them by leaning them on a ladder. Good try at creativity, Pottery Barn. But your Wooden Shoe Ladder is badder than a heap of shoes on an entry rug or in a boot tray ($79, was $129).

Moor Mirrors Like This, Please!

2012-01-19T10:56:00.004-05:00

I am a huge fan of mirrors for so many reasons. The right mirror when properly placed can add perspective to a space, increase a room's light, and help you ensure you don't have broccoli in your teeth on your way out. But the number one reason I love mirrors is that they are a piece of art you don't have to frame. And in the case of VivaTerra's Moorish Mirror ($189, was $379) the frame is the artistic statement. Lovely!

Closed for Kids

2012-01-18T00:25:00.004-05:00

Wednesdays and Thursdays are my weekend days at Affordable Interior Design. They are the days I take off to play with my Mr. Baby. Now if only we had some stylish furniture to play on--pieces like Serena and Lily's Coco Play Table and Stools. If we had the room, I would be tempted because we can now afford them at their sale price of $229 (were $325).

TMI Tuesday: Breaking News

2012-01-17T11:48:00.005-05:00

There is breaking news at the Helmuth household, and it has nothing to do with design (this is TMI Tuesday, after all.) This weekend our sweet lil' baby blob crawled! Prior to that he'd just sit around, showing no real interest in movement. His daddy and I were getting worried--some of his friends are nearly walking. The doctor gave him until Saturday to start crawling or else physical therapy would begin. But sweet Mr. Baby was just taking his sweet time. And now he's a crawler! Hooray!

That There is an Affordable Chair!

2012-01-16T00:44:00.003-05:00

What kinda chair can you get for $99? A plain wood one at Ikea, a boring metal one at Target, a flimsy folding one at JCPenney? Sure. But no thanks. I'll take a comfy wheeling one from World Market instead. For $99, their Ethan Office Chair is a steal of a deal!

What the $****#$ Fridays: Don't Cross a Black Pillow

2012-01-13T00:45:00.002-05:00

Today is Friday the 13th, and, boy, am I superstitious! I avoid 13th floors on elevators, never walk under ladders, and would pass on purchasing a black pillow today, especially one that looks like its entrails are spilling out on your sofa. Don't the ruffles on West Elm's Felt Blossom Pillow ($14, was $29) remind you of cushion guts? Or maybe I am just in a spooky frame of mind on this Freaky Friday.

Lean On Me

2012-01-12T00:42:00.001-05:00

As my clients will tell you, I am not a huge fan of leaning mirrors. They are a little passe in my opinion. They rarely fit in NYC apartments and, even when they do, they are often just obstacles in an already crowded path. But for some reason I am not opposed to Z Gallerie's Leaning Chalkboard ($239, was $299). It's a little more original and unexpected than just another looking glass.

Punch It Up With Poncho

2012-01-11T00:35:00.001-05:00

The students in my interior design classes hear me say regularly that a room's accessories are like jewelry. Fill your space with basic, classic furniture. Then give the space the "wow" factor with well-chosen accents, pieces like Stray Dog Design's Poncho Lamp ($135, was $275).

TMI Tuesday: Bemoaning My Bedroom

2012-01-10T00:39:00.001-05:00

You've heard me lament the state of my bedroom time and time again on my blog. We got new, organic bedding--I like it better. We got lovely, plum glass table lamps--even better. But I still am not in love. It's utilitarian, but I wish it were decadent. I think it needs Restoration Hardware's Grenoble Wing Bed ($1295, was $2695)--amazing!!

Modern Farm Feast

2012-01-09T00:30:00.003-05:00

Oftentimes farmhouse tables with their raw wood finish and chunky shape can feel too rustic. And modern chrome tables with their pointy edges and sleek lines can feel uninviting. So when I saw Wisteria's Natural Wood and Chrome Table on sale for $649 (was $999), I got excited. The best of both styles in one lovely table!

What the $****#$ Fridays: Chindi or Chintzy?

2012-01-06T00:18:00.001-05:00

Normally, I like VivaTerra. They have interesting, unique, and environmentally items--some that are also found at the very pricey ABC Home Store in NYC. But their unfortunate Chindi Folding Stool ($39, was $79) is certainly not among the items I would call interesting. This items is definitely closer to uninteresting and, dare I say, chintzy.

Project Pillow

2012-01-05T00:10:00.002-05:00

Is anyone else obsessed with "Project Runway"? Tonight their All-Star series begins. I can't wait to see Austin, Mondo, and Sweet Pea again. Hooray! The minute I saw Burke Decor's Bamboo Leaves Pillow ($53, was $74) I thought of Anthony Ryan's brush stroke dress. Am I right or do I just have "Runway" on the brain!?!?!

Chic Chef

2012-01-04T00:14:00.001-05:00

Since I was wed nearly two years ago, I have decided to start taking cooking seriously. In that time, I have mastered a couple of dishes and dabble at many others--my poor husband and child... And nothing adds flavor and pizzazz like fresh herbs. Perhaps that and my love of wine were why I was drawn to NapaStyle's Wine Bottle Herb Garden ($29, was $49).

TMI Tuesday: She Works Hard for the Money

2012-01-03T00:00:00.003-05:00

2012 is going to be a year of great growth for Affordable Interior Design. This month my resolution is to hire another designer, start video blogging, and set some business goals for the new year. What better place to record them all than CB2's Bamboo Dry Erase Board ($49, was $59)?! Very seldom are office supplies chic, but when they are, I must have them!!

Mod Mobile

2012-01-02T00:00:00.002-05:00

From twiggy to bold prints to geometrics, I love anything that references the 60s or Mod design. So that explains my love for West Elm's Finn Chandelier ($199, was $399).

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T00:00:00.001-05:00

It is officially 2012! Baby New Year has had a hard night of partying. Still he just woke up in time to wish all of Affordable Interior Design's loyal readers and very prosperous and well-designed 2012. Thank you for reading. Peace to you and yours the whole year through!

What the $****#$ Friday: Learned the Hard Way

2011-12-30T00:00:00.001-05:00

I expound upon the evils of shag rugs in my weekly class. Unless you have a maid 5 days/week, no one should own a shag rug. However, I could not resist and bought one the other day for my nursery. Big mistake! It shed, it smelled, it was returned. The reason I was lured? It was cheap. However, even on sale ($1,499, was $2,999), Anthropologie's Ikat Shag Rug isn't anywhere close to cheap enough for me to deviate from my tenets.

The Best Part of Christmas

2011-12-29T00:00:00.000-05:00

What is the best part of Christmas? The best part of Christmas, according to Affordable Interior Design, are the great post-holiday sales. Next year's tree is going to be fabulous once I purchase a few things like Crate and Barrel's Bright Metallic Icicle Ornaments (now $5, were $11).

Wheel Cool

2011-12-28T17:13:00.004-05:00

I am just getting back into the swing of things after a few great days off. The holiday was nice but fleeting. So I am back to the ol' design grind. And I just found a piece on Pottery Barn that I used to love: their Rustic Wagon Wheel ($229, was $299). Years ago I hung this 4' wheel in a home I designed in the Bronx. What lovely visual bang for the buck!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T00:00:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas from our Affordable Interior Design family to yours. Wishing you a holiday season full of peace, delicious food, and adorable babies dressed up like famous characters!

I am very grateful for my loyal readers and am looking forward to sharing a wonderful 2012 filled with great design with you!

What the $****#$ Fridays: Don't Pick This!

2011-12-23T00:00:00.000-05:00

Normally, I love CB2's holiday ornament selection. They have great colors, unexpected textures, and low prices. But they really missed the mark with their Glass Toothpick Ornament Ball ($1.50, was $1.98). Unless you are decorating a tree at a steakhouse, who needs balls of toothpicks dangling around their home? Weird, unsanitary, and visually unappealing at any price!

Poof! We Need This Pouf!

2011-12-22T00:00:00.001-05:00

As my frequent readers know, I am decorating my son's nursery. A new layout happened last month, new wall murals are happening at the end of this month, and VivaTerra's Puffball Pouf ($139, was $198) is happening right away before they sell out!

I Own It!

2011-12-21T00:00:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I recommended Overstock's Hand-Knotted Stripes Contemporary Wool Rug to one of my clients. It reminded me why I love that rug so much: great colors, great size (6' x 9'), and even better price ($255, was $300). And I know firsthand that it's a wonderful rug because I own it!!

An Able Table

2011-12-20T13:54:00.004-05:00

When seated, everyone wants a place to put a book or a drink. So every seat in your home needs a nearby surface. Since I need so many, I am always looking for interesting and affordable styles. West Elm's Dipped Side Table meets both criteria, especially now that it's $99 (was $129).

Ho, Ho, So Crazy!!!

2011-12-20T13:50:00.003-05:00

Tis my busiest time of year--and I am not just booked with holiday parties (the calm look in the above photo was due to a festive open bar). Mostly, I am rushing to get all my projects and clients wrapped up before I go on vacation for the Christmas. So blogging went by the wayside yesterday. But I am back today, making time to make a merry post.

Holiday Decorating Tip #4

2011-12-16T00:00:00.001-05:00

Seasonal Graffiti.* Got a couple dry erase markers and a mischievous streak? Give your family photos a touch of cheer by drawing a Santa hat on grandpa, a red nose on mom, or a wreath of holly around dad.

*This was borrowed from "County Living Magazine". It was so cute and clever that I couldn't help but share.

Holiday Decorating Tip #3

2011-12-15T00:00:00.000-05:00

Blow Out the Candles. I love scented candles as much as the next gal. However, the aroma from them can overpower authentic holiday smells like the tree, the turkey, and my favorite mulled wine. Use LED votives from World Market ($7 for 4) instead.

Holiday Decorating Tip #2

2011-12-14T00:00:00.000-05:00

Let it Snow! Snow is lovely outdoors but it can also be beautiful inside. Buy Insta-Snow ($9 on Amazon) and have a white Christmas no matter where you are celebrating.

(It also makes a fun, post-presents family activity!)

Hurrying During the Holiday Season: Holiday Decorating Tip #1

2011-12-13T10:54:00.005-05:00

Can you tell I have been nuts over here at Affordable Interior Design? Everyone want their place designed for the holiday season, and I don't want to disappoint. From Ikea runs to rush delivery to decking the halls at the framers, I am swamped. So this week I'm going easy on myself and sharing my 4 favorite seasonal decorating tips with you.

Tip #1: Feast for the Eyes. Could anything be more eco and wallet friendly than decorating with food? Punch holes in sugar cookies and hang them on your tree. Fill a bowl with clementines or pomegranates. Head to the grocery store for your decor!

What the $****#$ Friday: Sore Seat

2011-12-09T00:18:00.003-05:00

Great looking seats mean nothing if they are not comfortable. If you don't want to sit on it, why would you buy it? In other words, why would you buy CB2's Mei Chartreuse Barstool? Cause it's on sale? Even a price of $109 (was $139) isn't enticing me to buy this severe stool.

Cute Console

2011-12-08T00:29:00.002-05:00

Media consoles are typically boooring. Straight, boxy, blah. However, they are necessary evils for TV-addicts like me. So I was excited when I came across West Elm's very interesting Paul Loebach Credenza ($479, was $599). It's such an unexpected, almost sculptural piece. Love it!

Loving the Laser

2011-12-07T00:15:00.003-05:00

Pattern and texture unite in this Laser Cut Rug ($99, was $199). I love the modern look, I love the damask cut outs, I love the whole concept. Lookin' good, Brocade Home!

TMI Tuesday: Kid At Heart

2011-12-06T00:00:00.003-05:00

For Thanksgiving, I went to my mom's and stayed in my old room. It is adorned with glow-in-the-dark lizards and stars--I did not always have a designer's eye. Even though they are bad design, there is something sorta magical about staring up at twinkling stars. So I have purchased a pack from Fred Flare ($4.99, was $9.99) and will be putting them up in my son's room--not so much for him but so that I can sneak in and enjoy!

Cushion As Canvas

2011-12-05T13:28:00.004-05:00

This weekend I worked with a client who had a wonderful art collection. Paintings, drawings, sketches, oh my! As I am selecting items for her apartment today, I came upon Anthropologie's Bloomsbury Pillow ($39, was $138). What a perfect accent for her sofa. Not only will she have art on the walls, she will also have it on her furniture. Love it!

What the $****#$ Friday: Tetanus Torture Device

2011-12-02T00:00:00.000-05:00

Wisteria's Architectural Iron Chair reminds me of a Medieval torture device, not of a comfy home furnishing. Looking at this chair makes me cringe--it certainly does not make me want to sit. Tip of the day: if you spy a furniture piece that looks like it could give you tetanus, don't buy it (even if it is on sale for $180, was $329).

Bookcase Bling

2011-12-01T00:00:00.001-05:00

Nothing jazzes up a bookcase like bookends. Both practical and pleasant to look at, I am always looking for affordable styles. West Elm's Metal Bookends feel both retro and modern, and they are super-tempting at $14 (were $24). Think I'll get a few pair!

You Light Up My Work Life

2011-11-30T12:29:00.004-05:00

I've gotten so whenever I am working at my desk, I light a candle. It makes things seem more tranquil here at Affordable Interior Design. I also find that candlelight just generally puts me in a pleasant mood. Perhaps that's why I was struck by ZGallerie's Barkeley Tea Light ($4.89, was $9.95). Wouldn't this lovely be elegant to work by?

TMI Tuesday: Giving Thanks That We are Home!

2011-11-29T11:23:00.004-05:00

Ahh, it is so good to be back home--especially after a hellacious Thanksgiving holiday trip. I got food poisoning, my husband and mom got it two days later. My husband also got a bronchial infection. Mr. Baby got a cold and a pretty extreme bottom rash. Were there any perks of the trip? Hmm, well our lil' fella had his first flights and his first trips to Wal-Mart. Other than that, it was a dark time. So good to be back home in my own bed with a pile of design work to wake up to!

Day of Thanks #4: "House Beautiful" Magazine

2011-11-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

Today I am most thankful for "House Beautiful" Magazine. The day "Domino Magazine" died, I thought I'd never love again. Then "House Beautiful" was updated, incorporating affordable ideas, modern trends, and the amazing monthly paint color section. And now I have a new crush that costs only $12/year! Domino who?!

Gobble, Gobble!

2011-11-24T00:00:00.002-05:00

Gobble, Gobble! Hope you are spending the day feasting with friends and family. From Affordable Interior Design to you, have a very happy and yummy Thanksgiving!

Day of Thanks #4: Magic Eraser

2011-11-24T00:00:00.000-05:00

Today I am most thankful for the Magic Eraser. Got scuffs from moves or kids on your wall paint? Got sticky price tags on your vases? Got soap scum in your sink? Not anymore you don't. Not after you spend $3 on Mr. Clean's Magic Erasers!

Day of Thanks #3: Idea Paint

2011-11-23T00:00:00.000-05:00

Today I am most thankful for Idea Paint. One of my clients recently turned me onto this hot item. It is a paint that turns any wall into a dry erase board. Custom mix a color to match your decor, paint the exact size that you want,

and start sketching!

Day of Thanks #2: Cambria Rod

2011-11-22T00:00:00.001-05:00

Today I am most thankful for the Cambria Curtain Rod. I've tried every rod, from Pottery Barn's to Restoration Hardware's to West Elm's. Nobody's rod beats the quality and price of Bed Bath and Beyond's Cambria Curtain Rod ($19-$49).

Day of Thanks #1: Frog Tape

2011-11-21T12:23:00.005-05:00

Happy Almost Thanksgiving! To spread a sentiment of gratitude, all this week I am revealing the design tools that I am most thankful for.

Let's kick today off with one of my favorites: Frog Tape. I love to paint stripes. I love to get a crisp, clean line when painting around moldings and door jambs. Frog Tape gives me a clean finish every time--unlike that ol' blue painters' kind. Invest a little extra ($7) to get a perfect line, every time!

What the $****#$ Fridays: Blah

2011-11-18T00:00:00.001-05:00

Brown can be blah, especially when there is little to spice it up. And no, PBTeen, a white peace sign does not count as spice. Their Peace Rug is boring at any price, and it's very blah at $349 (was $499). Plus, who gives their teen a brown rug (shows every piece of lint) with white detailing (shows every stain)? That's an accident waiting to happen!

Handmade and High-Priced?!

2011-11-17T00:00:00.000-05:00

Handmade doesn't have to mean high-priced. West Elm proves that with their Hand-Blocked Star Trellis Pillow Cover ($9, was $19). Sure, it used to be a little pricey. But now it is priced nicely and I am ready to buy!!

Inspired Illuminated

2011-11-16T00:00:00.001-05:00

Oh my gosh! Would I love to turn off and on my lights if I had Anthropologie's Kelmscott Single Switchplate ($9, was $18)! It takes electricity to a whole new level and makes it elegant. Please, husband, read this and remember it for me for Christmas!

TMI Tuesday: Dumpster Diver

2011-11-15T13:52:00.002-05:00

A little secret about me: I love to dumpster dive. Any affordable interior designer would. But I used to take it to an extreme. When I first moved to NYC, I got my sofa from a curb in the East Village and carried it all the way to my Times Square pad. I got lamps, vases, even my sheets (in retrospect, that wasn't my smartest move) from scouring the streets. But I never found anything as elegant to salvage as Pottery Barn's Architectural Salvage Lamp ($79, was $170). Guess their buyers do a little dumpster diving, too!

Sexy Scarlet

2011-11-14T00:49:00.000-05:00

Some designers contend that every room should have a splash of red in it. I'm not sure I agree. But I might be more open to the idea if I had a Crate and Barrel Selma Lamp ($79, was $99) for every room I designed. I love its curving shape and its dropping price!

What the $****#$ Friday: Worst I've Seen in Awhile

2011-11-11T00:05:00.001-05:00

The minute my alarm goes off in the morning, I reach for a big stack of bills. Tearing them open with my hands is exhausting. If only the alarm could do double duty as an envelope opener. What a marvelous idea for an invention, but who would think of such a thing?

Psych!! No one, silly. Because that scenario is ridiculous. Nobody needs an alarm clock and letter opener. But someone was silly enough to invent one and now Overstock is trying to pawn them off on us for $11.63. Thanks, but no thanks!

Classic Coco

2011-11-10T00:00:00.002-05:00

Chocolate is a color that will never go out of style--and neither will Brocade Home's Coco Silver Pillows. While they will not go out of style, they will probably go out of stock at their new sale price of $14 (was $29).

Happy Birthday To Me!

2011-11-08T23:23:00.003-05:00

It's my birthday and I don't have to blog if I don't want to... That was the mantra of both yesterday and today. Today I want to focus on my 33rd year--a year that will be full of design, business growth, and peaches!! Yum!

Happy Un-Birthday to you, dear readers! Honor my big day by buying a sale home decor item you love!

Why Try?

2011-11-07T01:02:00.003-05:00

I love pieces that are great design but that are also so casual that they look like you aren't trying too hard. VivaTerra's Striped Jute Pouf ($59, was $89) is just such a piece. The relaxed jute material and the worn indigo stripe is laid back. Yet the banded cube is an instant classic for an ottoman or just a little moment of visual interest. Why try when you can simply buy this beautiful basic?!

What the $****#$ Fridays: Don't Get Fleeced

2011-11-04T00:00:00.000-04:00

I think Ballard Designs is trying to pull the wool (or cotton, as it were) over our eyes. Who are they fooling? They are selling 5 stems from a cotton plant for $39 and calling it a sale (was $59). Do yourself a favor and buy branches anywhere else for less. Better yet, go to a farm and pick your own!

Oh, Little Lumbar!

2011-11-03T00:00:00.003-04:00

I am constantly on the hunt for cute, little lumbar pillows. They are the perfect third pillow on a couch or accent on a side chair. Finding a great one in a fun color is hard, fining one with an unexpected texture is even harder. But I've done it with World Market's Mysterioso Little Nomad Crocheted Lumbar Pillow ($22, was $29)!

Evening Entertaining

2011-11-02T00:00:00.002-04:00

Pre-baby, a fun weekend night would be spent at a bar. Post-baby, a fun weekend night is having friends over to my house, around the dining table for dinner. I'm getting all domestic and having dinner parties has become a big part of that. So having a lovely dining table is more important than ever. That's why I am so drawn to the stunning silhouette of West Elm's Spencer Dining Table ($399, was $599).

TMI: Betsy Bed Head

2011-11-01T10:28:00.005-04:00

I am trying to break a bad habit. I have this habit of sleeping in. I never get up earlier than 9am, and I typically try to stay in bed until at least 10am. That's the beauty of being my own boss: I set my own hours. But I am trying to turn over a new leaf and wake at a decent hour. Perhaps if I owned Ballard Designs' Aimee Pink Duvet ($189, was $299), I would get up at the crack of dawn just to marvel at my marvelous bedding?!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T00:00:00.003-04:00

Happy Halloween from my family to yours! I wish Baby's first Halloween meant that I could take the day off. Anything but... I am working for four different clients today! From Tribeca to Park Avenue, I am boo-ked solid. But will be sure to make it home for some trick-or-treating and pumpkin carving!

What the $****#$ Fridays: If you don't know this by now...

2011-10-28T00:00:00.000-04:00

You will never, never, never know this... Or maybe you will know this if I remind you often enough. What is it that I want you to know? I want you to know that decals are hideous. They are non-committal and weak excuses for wall art. Disagree? One look at horribly unattractive PBTeen's Palm Tree Decals ($109, $149) should make you a believer! Don't mind me while I rant...

Dig These Dining Chairs

2011-10-27T00:00:00.001-04:00

Sometimes dining chairs start to feel ho-hum. Boring brown wood, blah cotton upholstery, seen-'em Shaker seats. When I want to shake things up, I look to Crate and Barrel's Folio Dining Chairs in Plum. I will now go to them even more quickly because they are on sale for $211 (were $249).

Talk Me Off This Ledge

2011-10-26T00:00:00.003-04:00

Whoa! Somebody is gonna have to talk me off of this ledge cause I am loving Brocade Home's Geometric Box Ledge Set of 2 ($49, was $99). I can imagine hanging them in tons of fun places and storing lots of fun things inside them. Stop me! This is the last thing I need--but I sure do want them!

TMI Tuesday: Lampscape

2011-10-25T00:00:00.003-04:00

As my husband will tell you, I love a good pun. I can't resist a cheesy play on words. So, when I saw Anthropologie's Verdurous Acres Lampshade ($69, was $128), I not only thought it would turn a basic lamp into a work of art, I also thought it would be funny to name this post "Lampscape". Get it?! Landscape on a lamp?! Ha! I crack me up!!

Back from the Berkshires!

2011-10-24T10:19:00.003-04:00

My family and I are back from the Berkshires. It was beautiful to see all the falling leaves, to lounge in the jacuzzi, to drive winding country roads. But our teething baby made things a little less than relaxing. Now we are home sweet home with a nanny to deal with Mr. Baby. That's relaxation!

But I'm still nostalgic for the nature. Perhaps that's why I was drawn to VivaTerra's Teak Trunk this morning ($115, was $165)?

Finally!

2011-10-21T00:00:00.003-04:00

After kvetching and dreaming about taking a relaxing trip, my family and I are off today on a New England adventure! We are heading to the Berkshires in Massachusetts to see the foliage, explore tiny towns, and swim in our resort's heated pool. I can't wait for a weekend away from the measuring tape and furniture stores. If you need me, I'll be gone hikin'!

Triple Threat

2011-10-20T00:00:00.005-04:00

Chairs don't have to merely be seating. The really interesting ones are also sculptures. And some of the very special ones feel like unique, vintage sculptures. Wisteria's Industrial Steel Chair fits this triple bill and is affordable ($104, was $149).

My Clients Are Cautious About Color

2011-10-19T00:00:00.000-04:00

Trying to convince my clients to use color is often like pulling teeth. Perhaps they would be more open to it if I showed them West Elm's Luli Watercolor Pillow, especially now that it's $24 (was $34).

TMI Tuesday:

2011-10-18T00:00:00.003-04:00

In my bachelorette apartment, I had a fireplace. Every night that I was home in the winter, I would light a fire and snuggle up on my sofa. It was oh-so-decadent! Sure my lil' 250 sq. ft. space would get awfully toasty. But I'd open the windows, curl up under a blanket, and be set for the evening. I've since moved, but whenever I see something fireplace related, like Ballard Design's Dury Basket with Stand ($99, was $149), I get nostalgic...

Restoration Within Reach?

2011-10-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

Since when is a bed at Restoration Hardware within reach for my budget design clients? Since their Lorraine Full Bed went on sale for $799 (was $1,395), that's when! This bed is lovely, classic, and probably great quality--knowing Restoration Hardware.

What the $****#$ Fridays: Shampoo Special

2011-10-14T00:00:00.003-04:00

Could any chair be less elegant than this? This looks like the chunky vinyl seat they put you in during your shampoo at the hair salon. Unless you are designing a beauty parlor, avoid these bulky, unstylish, and unaffordable Sterling Chairs from ZGallerie ($679, was $799).

Kissing Cousins

2011-10-13T00:00:00.002-04:00

I have a very small family. But one of my few cousins was named Mikey. So when I came across Stray Dog Design's Little Mikey Lamp, I immediately thought of him. My second thought was how much I like this lamp. Cute and fairly good price ($260, was $350). The look is so sweet I could kiss it!

New Office

2011-10-12T00:00:00.001-04:00

Now that the baby is getting my home office, I am setting up shop in a secluded corner of our master bedroom. I don't like desks in a bedroom but I will diffuse the work-oriented energy with lovely boxes and baskets, like Ballard Design's Palm Leaf Basket ($44, was $69).

TMI Tuesday: My Dream is Coming True!

2011-10-11T00:00:00.000-04:00

Big news today! My dream is coming true! My baby is getting a nursery. This month I am turning my home office into a baby room, complete with drapes, hand-painted murals, and a rug! I've had my eye on Overstock's Hand-Carved Alphabet Rug ($99, was $117) for quite awhile. And now it will be mine (and J4's)!

Coco for Coconuts

2011-10-10T12:46:00.004-04:00

I am clamoring for a vacation--desperate for one!! So anything that reminds me of the beach is suddenly a favorite, like West Elm's Coconut Chandelier. What a tropical delight and what a wonderful price at $129 (was $299)!

What the $****#$ Fridays: Poor Pottery Barn

2011-10-07T00:00:00.000-04:00

Pottery Barn, what are your buyers thinking?!? Normally, I think you have pretty classy pieces. But you really missed the mark with your Faux Hydrangea Stems ($8, were $12). Polyester flowers are not okay no matter how much they cost. Even if these were free, they would still NEVER be decent design.

All the Rage

2011-10-06T00:00:00.002-04:00

Tribal accents are all the rage these days. I love adding an ikat or a bold touch in nearly every room. So World Market's Tribal Carved Wood Accent Table would fit right in in a lot of my spaces. And now that it's $129 (was $149), my clients can afford it, too!

Big Bowl

2011-10-05T00:00:00.001-04:00

Now that I am married and trying to become more domesticated, I am always looking for big bowls for mixing, serving, etc. I have found one that I love at AtWestEnd. Their Glass Serving Bowl comes in lovely colors and is a lovely price at $39 (was $69). Not sure I'd use it for antlers. But, hey, why not?!

TMI Tuesday: Designer Disclosure

2011-10-04T00:00:00.002-04:00

I am obsessed. I should not admit this, especially now that I am an instructor, teaching people what is good design. My admission is that I own three Hemnes dressers from Ikea. Yes, it's true. I have purchased multiples--I have items in my home that "match". But I couldn't help myself. This dresser is the best with its deep drawers, low price, and versatile look. But I help my matching items look unique by swapping out the knobs. Some knobs I have considered purchasing, especially now that they are on sale for $2.95 (were $10), are Anthropologie's Sussex Knobs. Aren't they beauties?!

Boo! What scary design!

2011-10-03T23:07:00.010-04:00

Each month I write a newsletter, chock full of my design news and tips. Today I released October's newsletter: Spooky Design Mistakes. This one is focused on scary designs happening in homes that are haunted by bad taste. Check out spaces like the ones above and read how I would help save them from their terrifying fate:

http://www.icontact-archive.com/OrXrMNrrdnSLxPuPgYmMJGdCzP0i8MNJ?w=2

Happy Birthday To You!

2011-10-03T00:00:00.003-04:00

Happy birthday, my sweet and wonderful husband! Today my Jack gets one year older. I helped him celebrate this year with a Star Wars themed party. No, he is not 7 years old--he just acts that way when he gets around storm troopers. So we had Chewbacca cupcakes, Darth Vader decor, and, of course, I bought him the new Star Wars Blu-Rays--on sale at Overstock for $79 (elsewhere $99). Hope you love it, love!

What the $****#$ Fridays: Frumpty Dumpty

2011-09-30T00:00:00.002-04:00

The minute I hear the word "slipcover" I cringe. No matter how much it costs or where you buy it, the word usually means that your furniture is going to look like it is wearing a pair of baggy cotton underwear. So, when I saw that VivaTerra's wrinkly and crinkly Montmartre Slipcovered Chair was on sale for $1,359, I laughed. Who would buy this schlumpty piece for that price--let alone for the original price of $1,595?!

Old is New Again

2011-09-29T00:00:00.002-04:00

Antique stores around NYC are so overpriced! Even flea markets and thrift stores are a rip off. It is cheaper to buy old-looking things at places like Pottery Barn, especially when they are on sale, like their Wire and Wood Double Hooks ($26, was $39).

Missed the Missoni?

2011-09-28T13:04:00.003-04:00

I was so excited about the Missoni line at Target. But, as soon as it hit the shelves, all the good stuff was scooped up! If you missed the Missoni like I did, don't despair. Crate and Barrel has items with a similar feel--and their stuff is on clearance. For instance, check out their Zaine Salt and Pepper Shakers ($11, were $19). Same stripes, sale price!

Dinner Time

2011-09-27T00:00:00.002-04:00

It's been a very busy weekend. So I flaked on yesterday's blog post. Actually, I didn't flake. I remembered and rebelled. I chose not to blog.

But today I am back! Hunting down sales and revealing my favorites. Speaking of favorites, this week Mr. Baby had his first bites of food. The first night he loved his spoonfuls of avacado. The second night, he couldn't be bothered. He hasn't been exctied about food since that first evening. Perhaps it is because he is not eating at a table--just on his daddy's lap. I'm sure he would gulp down the meal if he were eating it at West Elm's stylish Modern Farm Table ($499, was $599).

What the $****#$ Friday: Really?!

2011-09-23T00:00:00.002-04:00

In the quest to be fun and hip, have you lost your mind, CB2? What are you doing selling bicycles? Who is buying their bike from a furniture store? Apparently not that many people because their Abuelo Bikes have been on CB2's sale site for quite awhile now. Get them while you still can for only $399 (were $499)--or, on second thought, maybe don't.

A Place for my Red Wine

2011-09-22T00:00:00.001-04:00

With chillier temperatures upon us, I find that I've lost interest in my beverage of choice: white wine. Every year at about this time, I switch over to red. And I always need a surface to set my glass while I blog. Maybe I'll invest in Ballard Design's Column Garden Seat ($99, was $159). Looks like a perfect place to put my beverage!

A Stately Seat

2011-09-21T00:00:00.000-04:00

As the owner of Affordable Interior Design, sometimes I grow weary of sitting in my pleather office chair. Sometimes I feel the need to search for a stately chair that's more befitting of my high-rank: President and CEO. Perhaps that is why I gravitated towards Pottery Barn's Captain Chair ($149, was $249) this morning. Sure, it doesn't look that comfy. But the sculptural shape and in-command name might help me feel more grand.

TMI Tuesday: Sleepytime...

2011-09-20T00:00:00.001-04:00

I've started this wonderful new tradition. The baby wakes up at 9am. I bring him in bed with me, we snuggle under our West Elm duvet, and he drifts back to sleep for another glorious hour. Is it because he's tired? Is it because he longs to be near me? No. I am convinced it is because he loves West Elm's Square-Tuck Duvet as much as I do--and we love it even more now that it is on sale for $79 (was $99).

Twist and Shout!

2011-09-19T00:00:00.000-04:00

Industrial is all the rage right now. If it looks like it came from an old factory, it is probably really "in". And, oftentimes, that means it may be really expensive. But not in the case of World Market's Twist Swivel Stool. This very current piece has a very low price of $99 (was $109).

What the $****#$ Friday: Why Tie?

2011-09-16T00:00:00.002-04:00

Why would you need a bunch of mini-bows for your homegoods? I'm not quite getting why I would need to by AtWestEnd's Set of Five Felt Bows ($12, was $18). I can't imagine putting these on the bottles on my bar or around lamp bases. No thank you. I'll save the mini-bows for the moments when I feel like dressing up my chihuahua.

Fabulous Floral

2011-09-15T00:00:00.002-04:00

I am always looking for fun and affordable side chairs that can add some flair to a room without breaking the bank. Crate and Barrel's Parker Chair in indigo fits the bill--especially now that it is on sale for $594 (was $699).

Oh, the Opulance!

2011-09-14T00:00:00.000-04:00

I would not classify myself as a girly girl at all. But every now and again I recognize my feminine side when I gravitate towards items like ZGallerie's Angelique Mirror ($249, was $299). Its curving lines and extravagant size make me want to grab some gloss and a frilly dress and get dolled up for a ball!