"Maximizing!"

This week I've been helping my daughter-in-law Carey with her new office. I'd have to say that one of my absolute FAVORITE things to do is to help someone create a "comfortable environment" that is a delight to the eye! I love listening to their ideas and looking at photos that catch their eye. Then comes the fun . . . looking for things to re-create "the look!"

According to StrengthsFinder 2.0, a Maximizer loves to "see potential in something or someone and draw it out" . . . Maximizing is one of my highest strengths. As a coach I love seeing potential in leaders and emerging leaders and drawing out the best in them. And as a designer I'm having so much fun "maximizing" basement, attic, and thrift store finds! I can just see the wonderful potential locked up inside a piece - and all the possibilities for giving it new life.

Today's project was to deepen the wood color on two chairs she found in one of the rooms at church so they have a bit more contrast.

BEFORE:

Used a little Annie Sloan Chalk Paint (Graphite), sanded some  details, and finished with some dark wax.

AFTER:

Stay tuned for more office creations!!!

Change it up with Color

I like variety. Changing up our home environment satisfies my need for change and brings me joy! I've found that a splash of new color lifts my spirits and brightens my day.

Early on in my decorating adventures I made the mistake of using color on expensive elements - carpet, large upholstered pieces, etc. But then I'd be "stuck " with that color for years! Finally I realized that if I kept my larger, expensive pieces more neutral, I could switch out smaller accents and change the whole tenor of the room in a matter of minutes. (Pillows, afghans, photo mats, etc. that I store in seasonal bins in the basement) Boy do I wish I had thought of that 30 years ago!

Here's a peek at our family room in several seasons.
#dodfamily room

Winter Reds:

Spring & Summer Blues:

Fall Oranges:

A Lesson in Contrast

Earlier this summer I wanted to spruce up one of our guest rooms before my Maurer boys arrived for their visit. I liked each piece of furniture and the room in general, but it was just missing something. Chalk paint to the rescue! A coat of Antique White, a little sanding on the edges follow by some clear wax . . .

Added a couple nautical accents - and we're good to go!
#dodbedrooms

Adopted Table

I spotted this table last week, and all I could see was potential. Before I knew it I'd gone back with the van and brought it home. I thought it would be an inspiring table to use in my studio once I applied a little TLC.

Out came my Annie Sloan chalk paint  .  . . a wash of Graphite followed by some dark wax on top and some Provence dry-brushed on the base and legs . . . a little clear wax and I think we're good to go!

I plan to give my current studio table (farm-style table) to my daughter-in-law to use as a desk in her new office - when I do, I'll post a picture of this beauty in my studio! #dodchalkpaint