Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Last week you enjoyed – ‘Creating Inspiring Vintage Interiors‘ from Nanette Reynolds and this week we enjoy making the most of your bedroom with creative storage ideas from John Nuter who is a member of the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room. I asked him to help you create valuable space in your bedroom and he gives plenty of ideas!

If you’re interested in being featured see details here: How to be featured on Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration‘ series.

To see all the past Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration members on Pinterest click here.

Olioboard Inspiration #30

‘Creating Valuable Space with Bedroom Storage ’ –  John Nuter

A bedroom should be a haven from life’s chaos, a place to calm down,settle in,relax and unwind.This peaceful zen state of mind is easier to achieve when you’re not stepping over piles of dirty laundry, or searching for that favorite outfit in an overstuffed,unorganized closet. Here’s a few ideas for getting back in touch with the inner chi of your den of dreams by stashing in style. There may be several square feet of potential storage hidden under your nose (and furniture) where you can find space for your clutter large and small.

Stick It Under The Bed

A king-size bed can eat up to forty-two square feet of space. Why should the dust bunnies have it all to themselves? Under the bed containers can hold the shorts and t-shirts you’re not wearing in January, as well as the wool sweaters and thermal underwear you don’t need in August. Hide away what you’re not wearing. Flipping your seasons is a great way to save space. Ikea sells sliding drawer units that fit under the bed, or you can but storage bins that slide in and out. If you’re thrifty and looking for a more inexpensive option, you can purchase Rubbermaid bins in a variety of sizes that work perfectly well also, and a stylish bed skirt hides them from view as well as adding a splash of color or interest. You can also find platform storage beds with drawers built in the bed frame, or a mattress that lifts easily for extra storage beneath. The added bonus of storing under the bed, one less place you have to vacuum! If you don’t have a lot of space you can even hide the bed away. Murphy beds are making a resurgence and range from plain and simple to high end versions.

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Maximize Your Closet

Make sure you’re getting the most out of your closet- especially when it comes to hanging space. You can always add drawer or shelf units, but it’s harder to change the rods.Before you start drawing up plans for your bedroom storage closet, decide what you plan to keep there.To figure out where to install rods for example, estimate how much space dresses and suits take up versus shirts and jackets. For longer items you need full length vertical space under the rods.

If the majority of your clothes extend less than three feet, hanging two rods,one high, and one forty inches from the floor, allows you to double the space you’ll have to hang clothes in that space. Consider what you need to get to on a daily basis. You should keep your favorite walking shoes front and center. Those strappy Manolo Blahniks can be kept in their original box on an upper shelf for special occasions. Shoe bins,tiered tie racks and slide out laundry hampers, keep things tucked away, yet easily accessible . Keep shoes off the floor where they usually end up in a mix-match pile, and keep then in individual boxes or cubbies. T shirts and sweaters should be kept on an open shelf where you can see them all the time.

If you’re looking for your favorite sweater and it’s under four others in a drawer, you’ll never find it. Drawers should be used for items that don’t fold well, socks, underwear, bras. Four to five drawers per person is the general rule and should be plenty enough. Use every inch of your closets, full length mirrors on the back of the closet doors,and hang hats scarves, and belts from hooks on the narrow side walls. If your closet isn’t large enough for adequate storage there are a variety of other options available from dressers, armoires, and full size wall units that can be customized to your needs. All of these come in many different styles, sizes and price ranges. If you are into recycling or repurposing, anything can be used to store your clothes in from china cabinets, sideboards, even an old phonograph cabinet, you’re only limited by your imagination.

About John Nuter

My name is Jonn Nuter and I live in Milwaukee,Wisconsin. I have always been interested in interior design/decorating, yet only did it in a limited capacity for friends and family. After a bout with cancer 9 years ago, I was inspired to throw convention to the wind and live the rest of my life doing something I was truly passionate about,so I went back to school and I’m proud to say,recently received my diploma in interior decorating from Penn Foster University.

I am capable of working with all styles of design, but I tend to lean towards modern/contemporary. I am currently looking to obtain a position in the design field while i work towards starting my own design service. That is where Olioboard comes in as an invaluable tool for creating your own designs whether you just like to experiment or you work in the design industry. It has not only provided me with a place to network,find advice and get support, but I’ve made some great friends.

For more bedroom & living ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Last week you enjoyed – ‘Melding Outdoor Inspiration with your Interiors‘ from Lisa Ketz and this week we enjoy creating an inspiring vintage space in your home with Nanette Reynolds who is a member of the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room. I asked her to give you ideas to create an eclectic mix of antiques, vintage finds and decorative elements in your interiors.

If you’re interested in being featured see details here: How to be featured on Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration‘ series.

To see all the past Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration members on Pinterest click here.

Olioboard Inspiration #29

‘Creating Inspiring Vintage Interiors ’ –  Nanette Reynolds

Incorporating vintage items into your home is an excellent opportunity to give a space character. Whether you are an avid collector, someone who has inherited the “family jewels,” or a person who just appreciates how objects with history can transform your décor, vintage style gives you the chance to reflect your personality into your surroundings. 

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Vintage details:

There are a few things to keep in mind when using vintage items. I suggest: collect only what you love and splurge solely on special one-of-a kind pieces; maintain an overall neutral palette and selectively incorporate the colors, patterns, and textures of a cherished period; create prominent display areas around your home; and think outside the box to utilize vintage items in the service of your needs and budget.

Realistically, outfitting your entire home in vintage may not always be practical, not to mention- costly. Take the kitchen pictured here inspired by a collection of Coke signs from the 50’s and 60’s. While it would be wonderful to have old-fashioned appliances and cabinetry, this kitchen utilizes energy efficient reproductions of appliances along with readily available, simple cabinetry. By using wall color and tile flooring popular of that period, and showcasing a fantastic 1950’s chrome table, the overall effect makes this kitchen special.

Defining areas of your home with vintage decor

Defining areas in your home where you can display a collection or a unique item prominently will create impact. For example, use the prime wall space of a staircase to display your collection of needlepoint by your grandmother, so it can be admired close up. Remember collections, in general, will make more of an impression when displayed together. And for those one-of-a-kind pieces, place them in locations such as an entry hall so arriving guests can marvel. Allowing your collection to be seen, in the right setting, affords a greater appreciation.

Finding creative ways to use vintage objects in ways other than for their original purpose is another fun way to incorporate them. Make shelving out of old wooden beverage crates. Use a trunk as a coffee table and store board games inside. Stack old suitcases together in a corner and always have a handy place for holiday supplies. Hide your modern electronics in an antique credenza. Use old glass jars to store dried beans. Re-purposing your vintage objects is not only green, but potential conversation pieces too.

Acquiring vintage items

You never know what you will discover when you start exploring thrift shops, attics, garage sales, church bazaars, etc. Part of the fun of acquiring vintage objects is learning about our history, and finding joy and beauty to share in your home. Collect what you love and your home will become a reflection of you.

Nanette Reynolds is an artist. For years I have primarily worked behind the scenes in theater, film, and television, as well as for special exhibitions in museums and stores. As a scenic artist, model maker, stylist, set designer, and art director – I
love a good challenge. In recent times, I have also been engaged in interior design projects and loving it. I welcome more of these endeavors to apply my talents to in the future.  You can visit Nanette on Olioboard or on Linkedin.

Today we continue Stagetecture’s feature ‘Olioboard Inspiration‘. Last week you enjoyed – ‘Celebrating Summer Late Summer Recap‘ from several of past Olioboard Fan Room members and this week we enjoy bring the outdoors into your home by Lisa Ketz who is a member of the Facebook Olioboard Fan Room. I asked her to give you ideas to meld the outdoor furniture and bring them inside for a rustic yet comfortable feel to your interiors!

If you’re interested in being featured see details here: How to be featured on Stagetecture’s Olioboard Inspiration‘ series.

Olioboard Inspiration #28

‘Melding Outdoor Inspiration with Interiors ’ –  Lisa Ketz

Bringing the outdoors in doesn’t just mean displaying plants indoors. You can furnish an entire room using furniture and décor originally designed for use outside. If outdoor furniture can withstand everything Mother Nature dishes out, it can certainly withstand the abuse of kids and pets. An added benefit is the great deals that can be had this time of year as stores mark down their outdoor inventory for summer clearance.

Get the look for your home

I was asked to design a room and show you just how it is done. Here I have used an all-weather wicker set to furnish a living space. The bright colorful fabrics will not fade in the sun and are easily cleaned when spills happen. The all-weather area rugs are both stylish and easy to maintain as well.

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Outdoor elements to bring warmth into your home

The use of outdoor pendant lights brings in some warm, rustic appeal. An old ladder has been repurposed as a plant stand. Ceramic garden stools are great for extra seating or they can be used as convenient side tables as I’ve done here.

Metal or wrought iron finishes, a long time staple of the patio, can make for stylish indoor dining surfaces as well. Plastic serving trays and picnic ware can transition indoors to add a fun pop of color to any occasion. Cement urns and wooden birdhouses make great décor items indoors or out. Here I have used cement urns as the bases for my table lamps.

You need only think outside the box to create a space uniquely your own.

I am mom to one grown son and grandma to a beautiful 4 year old little girl. I live in Binghamton, New York with my boyfriend of 12 years. I started my own Home Staging business called Added Charm Home Staging several years ago. I also hold down a full time job in the finance industry. When I am not working I am on Olioboard. It is a great creative outlet.

I love to design and shop and Olioboard allows me to enjoy my passions in its virtual environment. I also enjoy sharing design inspiration with other like-minded individuals through the Olioboard Fan Room on Facebook. If you want to learn more about me, check out my blog at www.addedcharmdecor.blogspot.com or my website . You can also follow me on Facebook. To view my design boards on Olioboard search for them under Addedcharm.

The main purpose of a sunroom is to enjoy the outdoors while being protected from the elements inside of your home. It is the place to loosen up and enjoy your leisure with plenty of natural light and outdoor views. To relish that recreation to the full extent, you have to ensure a cozy and pleasant indoor home. You can do that by following some easy ways. Check out a few practical ideas to decorate your sunroom:

Image via: Alan Design Studion

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Comfy Seating

The sunroom is to be treated as the second living room where you can unwind during your leisure periods. The seating in it should be comfortable enough, so that you feel like spending time there. Upholstered seating with posh pillows and throws will be enough. However, you can bring in rugs and side tables too. If you want to dine sometimes in the sunroom, add a dining table or three or four small tables. Use the existing seating arrangement instead of additional chairs for dining purpose.

Window Treatments

Window treatments for the sunroom are necessary for dictating the flow of natural light. They can make the room both functional and decorative. You can use sheer curtain panels that blend with any decorating style; layered window treatment that perfectly blocks out heat, cold, and light; scarf valances that are suitable for a moderate or tropical climate; floor-to-ceilig panels for an upscale look; shades to block UV rays and provide a sophisticated look; or shutters and blinds for a traditional home.

Image via: Dwelling Designs

Choosing the Right Accessories

A Sunroom needs accessories but be careful not to clutter the room by bringing in too many things. On the other hand, many people do the mistake of stuffing the place with too many plants. Remember that your focus should be on the outside views. So, plenty of plants and too many accessories will only distract your attention from outside. In addition, install adequate lighting fixture, so that you can spend time there in the evening and night too.

Systems to Cope with Weather Change

Most of the times, people forget or just ignore the necessity of installing air conditioning or heating systems in their sunroom. These systems should be built in the room as you are going to use the sunroom across the year. Instead of an air conditioner, you can go for a ceiling fan for cooling down the stifling air. On the other hand, a fireplace would be nice on frosty nights.

Image via: Style Motivation

The sunroom should be comfortable as much as possible if you are going to use it for unwinding with a cup of tea. On the other hand, ample storage will be needed if it is going to be used as a game room. Ensure your sunroom meets your needs and lifestyle and create the perfect space for you and your family.

For more home decor ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

When it comes to the outdoor furnishings you use to decorate your backyard, you might not be quite as worried about potential damage as you are with your indoor furnishings. After all, outdoor pieces are made to be resilient, with tougher materials designed to stand up to the wear and tear precipitated by the elements. But considering how expensive these furnishings can be, you probably don’t want to have to replace them every couple of years. And if you don’t take steps to preserve them that’s exactly what will occur thanks to constant exposure. So whether you live in an area that features seasonal rain and snow or you have sunny climes year-round, there are several steps you can take to ensure that your pricy backyard furniture lasts as long as the items you have indoors. Here are just a few tips for extending the life of your backyard furnishings.

Image via

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Keep furniture out of the harsh elements

The easiest way to protect these items from exposure to the elements is not to expose them in the first place. You might be scratching your head over this one. How can you use them outdoors without subjecting them to the glaring rays of the sun, the erosive nature of the wind and rain, or the damage that comes with snow, sleet, and winter weather? In truth, you cannot keep them entirely out of the elements. But you can get them safely tucked away when they’re not in use.

For example, those that experience rough winter weather likely won’t be spending much time using the backyard during these frosty months. So you can make some space in your garage or shed to hide your outdoor furniture away until warmer temperatures return. Or if you happen to enjoy a temperate climate all year you might just pull your furnishings out for events. And if you don’t want to bother with the hassle of hauling couches, chairs, tables, and umbrellas in and out of storage, simply purchase covers that will protect them from the worst of the weather.

Maintenance of your backyard furniture

Of course, most people are not willing to put in this level of time and effort when it comes to outdoor furnishings, in which case you can opt to do infrequent treatments as a means of preserving the good condition of your backyard furniture. For example, you might just remove the cushions from couches and chairs during the winter and leave the heavy frames outside. Or you might treat furnishings to an annual inspection and protection routine by which you spray fabrics with waterproofing products and check frames for damage (like nicks in the paint that could lead to rust or dried wood that will crack and splinter) so that you can do repairs and touchups (paint, varnish, and other weatherproofing).

Image via

In truth, you don’t have to devote the same attention to your outdoor furniture that you do to the items you use every day inside your home. These items are manufactured to be tougher so that you can leave them exposed to the elements without having to worry that they’ll fall apart like tissue paper in the first seasonal storm. That said, you should take steps to extend the longevity of these spendy purchases, and considering that just a little time and effort can go a long way, there’s no reason not to.

For more backyard tips on Stagetecture, click here.

Is it Spring yet? I’m officially tired of the winter. Here in Jacksonville, Florida we have hit the mid 70’s and I’m praying it is hear to stay, and not a cruel joke by Mother Nature! I played outside with my 5 year old daughter yesterday on our screened porch, and I felt like I could easily bask in the sun for at least 4 hours. Since life never awards me 4 hours of “nothing to do but relax” time all at once, I thought an inspiration outdoor room post was in order…

Bring on Spring already!

Are YOU ready for Spring yet?

For more outdoor living Stagetecture posts, click here.

At the beginning of the summer I had a blog post on how to enjoy porches to gain inspiration for relaxing and entertaining.  Today, my guest blogger shows us how to gain square footage in our home and save more money than the conventional addition.  Of course, adding a room or a wing on to the home isn’t always an economical option for everyone.  See how a sunroom may be the answer to your longing for a porch that you can use year around!

Rob Stone from Simply Conservatories, explains how adding a sunroom can be a great alternative to a brick extension, and it can be used throughout the winter months as well.  If you are considering a renovation and/or addition to your home – think of adding a sunroom/conservatory.

Many of us would ideally like some added space in our home, be it for a growing family or additional space to entertain friends. With the price of housing being affected by the credit crunch, many people cannot afford to move to a large home so instead look to expand the space they already have. The first thought from many of us would be to build an extension to our home but there is an alternative which is the conservatory, also known as a sunroom.

When it comes to brick built extensions, they are a very practical way to extend the room indoors but with the drop in conservatory prices, they have become a very good alternative. A conservatory or sunroom usually consists of a material called uPVC which you also find on standard double glazed doors and windows. The double glazing which consists in a conservatory has come a long way over recent years and now very good at keeping heat in during winter months whereas older conservatories could easily become bitter cold for several months of the year.

The uPVC material has a very good reputation of being very low in the need of maintenance compared to older timber frames found on some sunroom designs. Once your new added space has been completed, it can easily allow for a full dining table and chairs if you wish to use as an entertaining area. If relaxation is on the agenda then the added space can easily fit a range of very comfortable furniture to make the most of the extra light and warmth coming through the double glazed windows.

Small additions to your new space can make a new structure come a very warm and comfortable living area. This includes small plants or even an indoor waterfall which added together can be a very relaxing oasis for both family and friends to enjoy.

The overall price for your the new addition to your home can usually be found to be much lower than a brick extension. Adding to this, you can easily find the resell price of your home can easily rise to which may not be something you are looking for right now, but can be very beneficial in the future

Rob Stone writes many articles on conservatories such as the latest uPVC Conservatory Prices that can be found online.

For more porch decorative ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Take a look at these wonderful outdoor spaces from Southern Living.

Closeable shutters and southern charm make this outdoor room inviting and cozy.

This piazza makes the ultimate family hub for this Charleston home.

Look at how this weathered wood and wrought iron doors, are inviting and warm to this porch entryway.

Remember our post on porch swings? Take a look at this one! Grab a book and a pillow and sit back.

Enjoy your weekend outdoors!