Real Simple has some great make overs

I love a good make-over. Especially those that are inspiring and are attainable. The March 2011 issue of Real Simple had two makeovers that I thought were executed brilliantly:

This bedroom (above) had strong pieces, and a gorgeous room to sit in - but it just needed oomph to make the beauty of the room pop!

Painting the walls and furniture really did wonders here. It makes the entire room, also the area rug and bench at the foot of the bed make it not feel so large. This room came out beautiful!

This next living room needs a big dose of cheer up! It's got such great light, and has the potential to be fantastic.

And of course - the designers over at Real Simple did not disappoint.

Focusing on the symmetry of the window wall made such a gorgeous focal point. I love the pops of color, the layering of the carpets, and the whole feel.

1 Day and A Serious Make Over

A makeover in one day is seriously impressive.   Check out the One-Day challenge interior designers Pat Healing an Dan Barsanti took on for House Beautiful to make over the living room belonging to Cari Hynes, a homeowner in Westport, Connecticut.    

 Here (above) is what she started with - a narrow room with lots of windows, hardwood floors, and basic pieces. 

 After seeing this rug come down - I knew this space was going to be fanstastic.  I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE A ROUND ONE OF THESE FOR MY DINING ROOM!!!!  Any suggestions of how to make one - and I'll love you for ever!! :-)

 Loving te layering already and the hits are chartreuse and purple coming through.  This room is going to have mad character. 

 Isn't the final outcome simply BANANAS!?  I think it really came out beautiful!   

If only I could complete a project in 1 day! 

All images via House Beautiful

I love a happy ending

I think of rooms as stories.  For many of us - we move into homes and apartments that need updating, lots of paint and umph! Here is a living room - that is the quintessential vintage home (it looks like this could be LA -- my apartment had the exact same feel) It needs lots of paint, and fab furnishings, and a spectacular layout.  This home mixes high and low price points with vintage finds and I absolutely adore it!

Grabbed these pics over at Bazaar of Serendipity!

Isn't the redo just absolutely amazing!! I just love this entire look and wouldn't change a single thing!!  See... you gotta love a happy ending!