In my home, spring = out with the old, in with the new. And lots of summer house guests = fun design projects that I need to complete before June! Once again, I'm finding it difficult to get started, but when I finish, it's always totally worth it.
This got me to thinking...I'm in a pretty good position to incorporate some funky new ideas into my home - after all, I get to work with design experts all the time. I come across fantastic ideas, unique accessories and insider tips constantly when it comes to home design. I usually store it away in the old brain and sometimes it comes out in a new design project at home and sometimes it just...fades away. Well, my momma taught me "waste not, want not," so in the interest of keeping mom happy, I vow to waste no good design ideas or cool accessories!
From now on, as I find them - I'm sharing them with you! Look for new design ideas in this blog a couple times a week...or more accurately, whenever I find something I like - starting NOW!
Read on for my limestone inspiration...
So, a while back I heard of this place where they take pieces of homes that have been deconstructed so that people can buy them at major discounts (look for a story on this place in an upcoming show), everything from moldings, doors and appliances to unique lamp posts and antique wood-burning ovens. I'm always looking for a deal, so off I went to make another homeowner's trash my very own treasure. I walked away that day empty handed, but remembering my "waste not" vow - I present you with one of the coolest pieces that I saw there...a vintage limestone fireplace mantel.
This mantel came in three pieces and was priced at $400 - a complete steal considering that limestone mantels typically start at at least twice as much and can easily cost thousands. And this one had character. It just needs a little TLC to reach it's fullest potential! Take a look at the photo above to see a similar mantel in a home. My place is way too small (and of course, there's that little catch that I have no fireplace...) so I didn't bring it home, but maybe one of my style-conscious readers will find a place for it!
Check out the Rebuilding Exchange in Chicago if you're inspired!
