2lastnames's Profile

I would think leather would be a good compromise if you have allergies or pets that shed.

You're off to a good start! I would focus on function instead of strictly decorative elements. If you have guests stay more than one or two nights, they would probably like a place to hang or store their clothes in a dresser. A dresser could also be a good place for them to unpack makeup, jewelry, etc. You'll also definately want a mirror, bedside lamps, and alarm clock for your guests. I also like the idea of an arm chair. If you have an extra TV or radio, that could be a plus as well. This all depends on how you use the room of course. Have fun!

I always had a problem with dust when I had open shelving. I'm a clean person but I guess not clean enough to avoid this problem. Plus, with two cats...no one wants grey tabby with their soup...

Another Silestone owner here who loves her counters!

My husband and I had a similar issue. Our solutions are:

Small file cabinet on casters that rolls in and out of our hall closet. Purge unnecessary documents at least one a year.

Desk that does double duty as my vanity and as a laptop station. One drawer for my makeup and one drawer for electronics and paper. Wall-hung shelf above for extra storage (cup for pens, bills, etc.)

We store our printer in a bin that slides underneath our bed. When we need to print (which is not very often), we just get it out and hook it up then put in back after we're done. In a perfect world, we'd have space to keep like this stuff out but in 900 sq. ft. for two people and two cats, its just not happenin.

Good luck!

Well, maybe most of us can't afford a chandelier like this, but it is a great inspriration and makes me wonder if I could attempt my own version. A craigslist find, a little glossy spray paint, some faux gemstones or beads...Has anyone attempted something like this? I am tempted...

White! Of all the colors, it was picking a white that brought me to the brink of a decorating meltdown. Who knew. There are only about ten million shades of white... Finally got it after four repaints and a little help from a BM color consultant.

Sounds like curious cats and cutting corners is the cause of many DIY disasters:)

For me, I think changing my mind mid-project causes the most DIY stress for me. My husband and I has a backsplash tiles installed (expensive three-tone porcelin penny rounds). But pre-grout decided we didn't like it (way to busy) and tore the whole thing down (ouch, not easy). We ended up putting up cheap, white subway tile instead. Everyone loves the subway tile. Lesson: Sometimes simpler and cheaper is better...

Splurged on an awesome mattress and have it on a platform type bed with slats. Comfortable as all get out.

The mattress on the floor reminds me of when I was just starting out on my own and hadn't yet saved enough money for a bedframe. I like to think of it as so boho chic. Those were the days!