(image via Real Simple / David Prince)

…more specifically your entry way? Consider adding a runner to define the space. This tip, and few more ways to add a little life to your entry can be found on RealSimple.com.

“Hello Designers,

I’m in the process of re-doing my teen daughter’s room and I was trying to figure out some ways to give my daughter space to display pictures and keep notes that’s not just the typical corkboard and whiteboard combo piece.  There’s nothing wrong with them, in fact its what she has now.  I just figured since we were re-doing her room I could do something more creative, more mature… Thoughts?”

Here’s what Jamie thinks…

There are two DIY projects that I think will help you achieve the look and function you’re going for.  The first would be to mount a corkboard sheet (or multiple sheets, depending on how big you want it) to the wall and frame it out by mounting molding to the wall.  Check your local craft store for the corkboard sheets and your local hardware store for the molding.  The second project requires more of the same molding and some chalkboard paint.  Step one of the second project would be to paint an area of the wall where the chalkboard will go with chalkboard paint (use painter’s tape to help with straight lines).  Then frame the chalkboard by mounting the molding to the wall.  Good luck!

If you have never thought about rocks as a decorating accessory, think again. Rocks can add an element of peacefulness and visual stimulation. Make the felt rocks above yourself! Click here for DIY instructions.

Moving away from fabric, real rocks make the perfect addition to an empty fireplace hearth. Vastu co-owner, Eric Kole, used river rocks in his EcoSmart Fireplace to add interest and cover the stainless steel burner unit. River rocks can typically be found at your local hardware store.

However you want to rock, an assortment of rocks can be a great element to bring in from the outdoors. Finish off a day of decorating with some Rocky Road ice cream.

DIY suggestions for rocking decor at home:

• Don’t limit yourself to hardware store finds, search out local parks and of course the beach
• Make an interesting paper weight! Use spray adhesive to cover stones in fabric to (remember to surface clean before gluing). You can cover the seams with a decorative element like a button or cording. Be creative!
• Have a rock related DIY project you’d like to share? Send your pics to design {at} vastudc {dot} com and have your project featured on the blog.

decorative tree branches

To truly bring the outside in, plan a little DIY project.  Tree branches are often used as a decorating element because of their low cost and stylish look.  Here’s how to get started and turn any vase into a display of sculptural nature…

1. Collect an assortment of dried tree branches from your yard or local park.  Look for larger branches for a floor vase or small branches if you’d like to create some table decor.

2. Spray paint the branches in a fun color of your choice (metallic finishes may be really cool!)  You could also leave the branches their natural color.

3. Once dried, arrange your branches in a vase and done!

For branch inspired home furnishings, consider items like:

faux bois floor lamp

The Faux Bois Floor Lamp from Oly.

wallpaper

Or wallpaper by Wall & Deco featuring a branch inspired pattern.

So, what do you think?

“As summer approaches, people feel the need to not only revamp their wardrobe, but to redecorate and spice up their home with furniture and furnishings reflective of the weather. Well, I’m going to provide a few budget friendly suggestions that will allow you to give your space a little seasonal facelift without breaking your bank. Here are a few tips:

• Swap out accent pillows/pillow covers with fun, vibrant textiles to add character
• Replace ornate table settings with a white, clean, and crisp palette accented by a simple clear vase used to hold an assortment of freshly cut flowers as a nice pop of color in the center of the table
• Consider substituting heavy window coverings with sheer panels which will make the space a lot more light and airy.
• Incorporate interesting and colorful accessories throughout the space in bookcases, on consoles, and credenzas just as accents to brighten up the space. (Be careful not to over accessorize – remember less is more”

You can check out the full story, ’Domestic Brights’, online here.

“For those ‘do-it-yourselfers’ that are a bit design challenged, but would like to take pride in creating their own space I generally recommend working around a monochromatic color scheme. Choose one color that best suits your personality, and provide depth in the space with different shades and textures of that one color. You can begin this technique with a color gradient paint swatch of your chosen color. These swatches are great and free of charge at any local hardware or paint store! Once you have settled on a color, the hardest part is over.  Now all you have left to do is choose fabrics and accessories that coordinate with your handy dandy paint swatch.”