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Friday, July 15, 2011

It's About Lime!

Try breathing new life into your walls with a lime-wash instead of regular old paint!

 Lime wash is made by dissolving slaked lime (or calcium hydroxide) in water, and has very low VOC (volatile organic compound) content (It's eco friendly!).   It's then mixed with pigment and dried.  Calcite crystals  absorb the color and are created by a chemical reaction; the final product looks slightly aged, with a slight glimmer as the crystals reflect light. You can do this by hand the old fashioned way, or buy it pre-mixed!

Some Things to Know:
Organic - No odors, no fumes, non-toxic  Anti-Fungus - lime paint allows walls to breathe and kills bacteria and mildew Unlimited 
Colors - Colors are custom made and the color palette is unlimited
Durability - Can last up to a century or more (similar to ancient frescos) and does not peel off like modern paints  
Lime paint allows stucco to breathe and allows air and water to flow, which is healthier for you and your house.




Via Apartment Therapy



http://www.ehow.com/how_8535316_lime-wash-walls.html




Wednesday, July 13, 2011

All It's Chalked Up to Be

Take the chalkboard out of the classroom and let it breathe new life in your home!  Below are some innovative ways to use the chalkboard!

use some chalk paint and make labeling easy in your pantry!
via Remodelista



chalkboard shelf



Saturday, July 9, 2011

Summer of Stripes.

With the 4th of July having just passed and it being summer…strips are on my mind.  These can be nautical summer stripes, patriotic stripes, or just a great way to add interest to a room or outfit.  To me, summer stripes are a must!   Ready, Set, Stripe!

John Learner via Elle Decor


I love the large blue stripes paired with yellow furniture! perfect for summer!




Aldo Nautical Ballet Flat


Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Outdoor Room

Many people often neglect the outside of their home, but it's the perfect place to get a little creative and add an extra "room" to your home!  It's officially summer so a get together outside is the perfect excuse to give your backyard some TLC.  below are some outdoor essentials!


1. Lighting: try hanging some tea lights in mason jars or lanterns. Maybe even add some string lighting!


Pottery Barn string lights

2. Use fabric! Your outdoor space should be an extension of your home.  Make it feel cozy by adding some fabric (seating, throws).  These are easily switched out as well making updating the room super simple!
Via House Beautiful

Via House Beautiful

3. Food and Drink!
Garden Bar via Pottery Barn

4. Outdoor Storgae
Pottery Barn Lockers

Storage Bench

5. Fireplaces and Fire pits
limestone fire place

Dual Purpose Plant Pot – Erbe Planter and Grill by Chiasso




6. Vegetation!  (This is the outdoors after all)
Turn a tree into a gazebo!