In planning the furniture layout for our new condo, I've been on a search for a few really unique pieces.
I've always wanted to have a large ottoman to use as a coffee table rather than a traditional coffee table. I found one at Walmart that, I think, will fit the bill and not break the bank.
Like the one in the photo, the ottoman I chose is a round with an upholstered top on which a serving tray will be placed to hold drinks. An ottoman such as this is not only lovely but it can be used as a footrest, a table and also as additional seating if needed.
Many ottomans also provide storage so there seems to be no end to their usefulness. A grouping based around a circle is conducive to conversation and interaction. We humans are drawn to circles because they are a symbol of balance and harmony.
Another piece I'm on the hunt for is an interesting item to use as an end table. When I happened upon this photograph (courtesy of Sico paints), my interest was piqued. Although I may not be able to find a great architectural-salvage piece like the one in the photo, the idea of it brings other ideas to mind. That's the wonderful thing about interesting decor photos -- they often spur on additional creative ideas and insights.
Some of the ideas I had for a unique end table were a stack of large coffee-table books, a stack of hard-sided vintage suitcases or trunks and an outdoor birdbath with a round, glass top.
We just happen to have a birdbath in our yard we would otherwise be selling. I just have to decide if I'm up to the task of sanding it all down and repainting it. I also have to see if the scale and height will work with the other furniture items. These are all things you have to keep in mind when using an item in a unique way. Is it worth the effort and price and is it in keeping with the scale of the other items?
The architectural-salvage end table in our photo, for example, was too short to work as an end table, so they built up the base to make it the right height. Keep size and scale in mind for your intended usage. For now, I'll just have to be patient and attentive to the possibilities of the items I happen upon. Sometimes you have to let items find you in their own good time. Don't try to force things because it rarely works out.
Another way to add unique pieces to your decor is to invest in original art pieces. The wonderful sculpture of a hand in our feature photograph is a great example of a unique art piece. It has texture and visual height along with a rustic patina that complements the finish on the side table and chair.
Notice how the rough finishes work with the soft upholstery fabric. Without the textural finishes of the table, sculpture and side chair the upholstered items might appear a little too soft and feminine.
The accent chair, while upholstered in the same soft blue fabric, has a finish that replicates the rough texture of the side table. This chair brings the two finishes together perfectly and is sculptural in its own right. This is the transition piece that helps blend the two finishes and styles together.
When mixing finishes, try to have at least one piece that blends the two styles together. It might be a painting, a fabric throw, wallpaper, a piece of furniture or even an area rug.
I will be applying this technique when I combine my shabby-chic French provincial love seat with my new contemporary love seat in our new condo. The styles are completely different, but the fabric colours are complementary. I will simply switch the existing throw cushions to help visually blend the two styles together. I imagine that the two styles will blend beautifully. I'll keep you posted.
Back to the original artwork. There are many local artists and art studios that offer a plethora of wonderful original art. It's worth it to take a weekend to go on an art-seeking adventure. The journey alone will open up your mind to all kinds of artistic possibilities for your decor.
The season for weekend yard and garage sales is in full swing. You never know what you will find on these excursions, so take a day or two and go on a scavenger hunt for anything and everything from furniture to accessories for your decor needs.
You might happen upon an old wooden window frame that can hang on the wall as rustic art or yards of fabric that you can make curtains out of. Try to focus on your needs but don't close your mind to great deals and nice surprises that might come your way.
I think we all want our homes to have that special something no one else has. Whether it is a great colour scheme or an eclectic furniture style. Finding the unique means thinking outside of the box (stores) and keeping an open mind to possibilities.
connieoliver@shaw.ca
