My Humble Abode, Part 1: A Preview

Happy Friday dear readers! I hope you're having a lovely day, and have a fun weekend planned. If you follow my Instagram, you know I've been working on my home this week. It's a slow process, but that's okay.  I believe you should allow a home time to evolve. If you decorate your place too quickly, you will become bored.  I'm estatic to be back in my hometown of Cleveland. 

As always with a new place, it took sometime for this apartment to speak to me.  Your place has a soul and a unique character, if you listen it will tell you what it wants. I've always had a love affair with wherever I've lived and now this place is no different. I am hoping to never move again.   :-)

I'm calling my style dollar store chic. I want my place to be: simple and clean; modern, yet warm and cozy;  retro, groovy and mod. It needs warmth because my main window gets the northern breezes from my beloved Lake Erie.  I want guests to feel free to plop down on the sofa put their feet up and cover themselves with a soft blanket. Nothing's too precious, so not to worry if something gets spilled. The sofa cover is washable.

I want lots of color. I know I'm breaking a lot of rules, but I don't care. One of my major goals is to prove that pink can be a thoroughly modern color. It's not just a girly color, and it looks great with every color. I've used various shades of pink, have paired pink with green, grey, orange, and blue. There's no such thing as too much pink.

Other styles I'm influenced by are: mid-century mod, minimalism, bohemian, Japanese, and industrial. But please don't call my place eclectic, I prefer the term collected.  I have collected various things that I find beautiful.  Just not too many, clutter will not do. 

Now here's the kicker.  My budget is $100.  How do I reconcile all these different influences and on such a tiny budget? Follow along to find out. I will also have a lot to say about organization. These pictures are bad, but that's the natural light in the middle of the day on a gray day in Cleveland, and I actually love it.  I sure feel grateful for my fab girl cave.

Want more pictures and less words?  Be sure to follow @margiemax on Instagram.

Masculine Mood Board

Here's the story of my life.  I've been accused many times of being a lesbian. I'm not. I get hit on by women and I like women, just not that way. I'm not even curious.  I've never been with a woman in that way, and won't in this lifetime anyway.  Some guys do find me attractive, not sure why, but I'm grateful (hmm, maybe not so grateful afterall, keep reading).  Guys who like big butts tend to like me. I often riff on the Chris Rock joke...do you know it?  My version:  Thank God for guys who like women with big butts - they make the world a better place.  Not sure if I can make this joke ever again.

I'm beginning to wonder if there's a correlation between guys who like big butts and assholes? Just sayin'. Don't take offense. Just talking from my own experience. I don't know what it feels like to be treated well by a man. Think I'm going to become a Buddhist nun.

Wish I had been more selective in my youth.  Listen, girls:  hold out for Mr. Right!  You're a girl.  I know you enjoy your body and your sexuality, and you have a right to.  It's one of God's greatest gifts.  But....being a girl you are not purely physical the way dudes are.  Protect your tender heart, don't be a booty call.  Take the words from an old lady who's been there, done that....you will get hurt.  Girls just aren't built the way guys are. They are perfectly happy with just the physical. We need much more.  Much, much more.  But it is strength, not weakness.  Don't let anyone tell you different.  If you are a woman - you are fabulous.  Period. Find a man to love you and get your freak on with him. Here's the remedy for a broken heart: vibrator, candles, bubble bath, chocolate and read this book.

Okay, what does this have to do with a mood board?  I know, my mind wanders. It's a gift and a curse.
So here's the jist.  I met a dude recently. Seemed so different. Had fantasies. Thought he was THE ONE. Wrong. Even thought I might be able to show up at the holiday parties at my families this year with A DATE. Can't remember the last time I did that. Years. Years, I tell you, not hyperbole.

Gave said dude benefit of the doubt. Warning bells immediately. Ignored. Lonely. I'm strong, but I still crave the arms of a strong man. And I'll admit it. On my bad days, I wish I had the shoulder of man who loves me. Apparently, it's not in the cards for me in this lifetime. I do feel sad, but focusing on art really helps.  Oh - and listening to Katy Perry like a zillion times. Actually thanked one of the playas (in my mind) from the past. Bad men teach good lessons, and make you strong. But you don't have to go that route. Follow my example. You are strong. No need to waste precious time on heart ache. Contact me if you need prayers or support.

Again, what does this have to do with a mood board, you may ask. Well said dude was like many I've met. Just wanted to get into my drawers. No interest in loving me, getting to know me or treating me right. Yeah, it hurts like hell. Even at my old age. Adding insult to injury, I'm mad at myself. I should know better. I can dish out the advice, but can't really take it. And, oh yeah, wazzup with my own arrogance? Who am I to give advice about men? I know nothing about them, and have failed miserably at trying to find one to be mine.

So, dude who wanted in my drawers was skilled at the game. Honestly, I think there's a player handbook. I could write it if there isn't. They all say same the thing. Said dude seemed a little different. Impressed me cuz he's a hard worker. Seemed to really like me. Has a nice house in the hood which needs some TLC. Pretended to be interested in my organization and design skills. Wanted to pay me to design his home to be more beautiful, streamlined and organized. Loved how simply and elegantly I live (or so he said while baiting his trap). Had some good vintage pieces, was gonna give me carte blanche - every designer's dream! Blue and brown his favorite colors. Wanted some ethnic pieces. Had some good vintage pieces including a blue vinyl sofa. Heaven! I couldn't wait to get started.

Masculine mood board by Peggy

The deal fell through. Dude didn't mean a word he said, just wanted drawers, doesn't even like me. Tried to crush my spirit. Mad at myself, but I learn quicker than I used to. The only thing to do in a situation like this ladies, is to cut him off. I feel really sad and disappointed. But, I'll dust myself off and keep going. What else can I do?  As you know, I've been fighting illness for a long time, and have been making strides everyday. What would possess a person to knowingly try to crush the spirit of someone so vulnerable? No sense analyzing like this...I don't want to understand that kind of cruelty. The only thing I understand about it is - well - that it should be eradicated to the point that it is incomprehensible.

Luckily, I have family who love me. My brother tells me not to give up. I don't know about that. In the meantime, I'll work on my own place. You may be surprised at my place. Really turning into a warm, cozy, romantic, dark little cave for winter. Reveal coming shortly. Hope to get it done in time for AT's annual color contest.

So the deal fell through.  It was a fun exercise, though. Even though I tend to think my audience is primarily female, I love designing for men. Especially if they are organization challenged.


Here's the boring deets if you are interested:  Clockwise from top row: 
1.  Twig lamp from Family Dollar, $12.00;
2.  Twig lamp from Goodwill, $10.00 and leather lamp from Goodwill, $5.00 (both would need shades and rewiring);
3.  wall colors:  accent wall pale silvery sage green by window;  dove gray rest of walls; 
4.  gorgeous white rum bottles from Target - expensive - but need something pretty on rolling cart;  pretty glasses and ice bucket are easy to find at Goodwill;
5.  witty little Buddha - CitiTrends, $3.00;  
6.  vintage cigar box, Goodwill $3.00 - was part of his birthday present so already gave him.  this is not a photo of the one I bought, which was totally fabulous - vintage from Bolivar in Ohio - with camels and temples on it - wish I'd photographed it! It's on his coffee table and he's storing the stuff he always loses: keys, remote, lighter, cigarettes....storage options can be beautiful!  And they help eliminate clutter. As you know, clutter just won't do!
7. turquoise curtains - in my collection;
8. fab blue bent wood chair - $10.00, Goodwill (shoulda bought this one for me);
9.  rug from CB2 - totally out of the budget on this project, but fab;
10. fabulous rolling cart, reasonably priced from VintageIndustries,Inc.

Something Unexpected

Dear readers, I've been contemplating decor and color - that's nothing new. But for Spring, I'd like to add an unexpected piece to my decor. Something out of the ordinary for me. Something symbolizing new beginnings, which after all is what Spring is all about.

I've been noticing Haeger's famous panther. Maybe this piece would do the trick. To me it represents sleek, mysterious, feminine power. It's totally strong and sexy. As you know, I've been contemplating adding a few black pieces to my decor, so this piece would work.

There's a new user on flickr, who goes by the name Haegernerd. He loves Haeger and he's skilled at displaying it. He's the one who got me thinking about the panther.

I've mentioned Retromod's home before. I love the way she rocks vintage. Her collections are fab and she uses a restrained hand when displaying them. It's never too much. And her use of color is yummy. She's got the panther in her collection and I love it. See previous posts about Retromod's style here and here.

...

I'm going to have some fun with my decor for Spring. Fun colors, something unexpected, a little more glam and unapologetically girly. Stay tuned. xxoo

Peggy's Rules for Decorating - Starting from Scratch

Dear readers, I'm addicted to decorating blogs and magazines. Like anyone, I love looking at expensively decorated, luxurious rooms. But it's not rocket science decorating a room when you have plenty of money. It's the rooms of real people that fascinate me. Especially those with who must come up with resourceful solutions because they lack money or space. Sometimes I have to chuckle when I see an article in a magazine and they refer to a "small" budget. Apparently, I am the cheapest person in America. I don't think $20,000 or even $2,000 is a small budget.

...

The truth is there are many Americans who have little money. In America we believe that poverty is a reason for shame. But this is not a post about poverty, this is a post about creativity. God did not bless me with money, but fortunately he did bless me with creativity. And I am not alone. I believe everyone is creative! No matter how humble your abode - maybe it's just a college dorm room or a small studio apartment - there are a few simple things you can do to make it your own.

...

How do you decorate a room with no budget? With accessories. Accessories give a room character. I'd like to share an example of starting a room from scratch. For this example we will start with the living room, let's assume you are getting your first place. Since you are just starting out, maybe you don't know what your style is yet. So don't go crazy buying stuff. It's better to start slowly. An empty room is so full of potential. Let it be empty for a while. Learn to enjoy space. Believe me, one day you will wake up and wonder where all the stuff came from, so enjoy your unencumbered space for now. However, no matter where you live, it should be where you feel at home. It should be beautiful and have character. It should make you happy. Here's where to begin.

...

First, start with something comfy to sit on. Go to the Goodwill, Salvation Army or second hand stores. Buy a cheap sofa, loveseat or recliner. Vintage stores are a great place to get cute, quality furniture. Here is my sofa, purchased at a vintage store several years ago for about $200. I am so happy with it, and the quality is better than most new sofas.

If you don't have the money for a sofa, get an air mattress. Next, get some cute sheets in a pretty color. These can be bought cheap at Target, or even the dollar store. While you are deciding which colors make you the happiest, you can change them on a whim. And you don't need to worry if your friends spill food or drinks, they are machine washable. It's best not to invest in expensive furniture when you are young, your job may transfer you to another city. You may decide to travel to Europe. It's best to travel light and be free. And over time your style will change.

Now that you've got a comfy place to plop down after a hard day's work, what's next? Just remember this easy equation:

3P + L

This is everything you need to know about creating a beautiful room from scratch, for very little money. The equation translates as follows. Remember go slow. Start with one of each:

Pottery, Paintings, Pillows, Lamps

Pottery. Explore the thrift stores. Have fun with the hunt. Nothing is better than scoring a beautiful piece on the cheap. It's also satisfying to love an orphan piece that someone decided to let go. Overlook imperfections if a piece is beautiful to you. Cracks or scratches are signs of previous life, and are romantic. If you get tired of the piece, you can donate it back. This is how objects are supposed to be, in constant motion (this is where the notion of Indian giver comes from - but this is a topic for another post).

Here's a good example, Anna from Door Sixteen scored this totally fabulous vase at the Goodwill for $2.99. It just takes an eye and persistence to find your own treasure. I prefer ceramic, but glass vases are lovely too.

Paintings. Peruse the internet for affordable paintings. Many artists have blogs and are struggling to support themselves with their art. Second hand stores often carry original work as well (see my post regarding a thrift store in Toledo, below). Or call your local art school to see when they are having a sale. It feels great to support local artists. Remember to go large. A large painting can be used to anchor each area of your apartment. Lots of little pictures grouped together looks cluttered.

A quick word about clutter. It's a no-no. If you keep your place uncluttered you will be admired by all your friends. The only drawback is you may have to turn away some of your friends - they will constantly want to hang out at your place because it will feel so peaceful. After a hectic day at the office, returning to a simple, clutter free place feels like heaven. And if you are anticipating a romantic rendezvous, nothing impresses like an uncluttered place.

I have a bias regarding framed posters. An original work is so much more sophisticated. Just because you don't have much money, doesn't mean you aren't interesting. If you cannot afford a painting, go to your local craft store and buy a large canvas. Paint it in a solid color, or several colors. If you can't decide what color to paint it, think of your favorite outfit. You know - the one that makes you feel your best and gets you the most compliments. Or throw paint on the canvas graffiti style. Don't worry if you are not an artist. Have fun, don't get caught up in perfection. This is a great way to experiment with color, this can help you discover what colors make you happiest. This is also a great solution if you are in a rental and not allowed to paint the walls. If you like photography, use the Rasterbator to blow up your favorite image. (Caution: Rasterbator is free, but I understand the required amount of toner ink can get very costly.)

Pillows. Etsy has lots of affordable pillows (see post below). Target also has a nice selection of pillows. I never buy pillows in second hand stores, it doesn't seem hygienic. Textiles add a luxurious feel to your place, but don't be lured into spending a lot of money. I have bought beautiful silk pillow covers from Thailand on Ebay, at extremely reasonable prices. The pillow insert can be bought at the craft store for a couple of dollars.

Lamps. Add an unexpected lamp. I suggest a standing lamp to start with until you decide what sort of tables you want. Also, standing lamps give a much more pleasing glow than overhead lighting. Second hand stores often carry cute lamps, but beware the lamp without a shade. It can end up being very costly. You can find a cute lamp for cheap, and rewiring is cheap. But lamp shades are hard to find in the correct size, and can be extremely expensive. One time I bought a lamp at a flea market for $2.00, the rewiring was $9.00 (total $11.00). I could not find the shade I wanted. I finally found one at a lamp shop for $55.00. I bought it because I was desperate and tired of the search. It was a gorgeous shade. But how silly. The shade was five times the cost of the lamp! Target has some nice lamps, as does CB2. CB2's lamps can get a little pricey, but they do go on sale.

...

There you've got it! A cute room that you can call your own. With this handy equation, you have a strategy for those days when you need retail therapy. When you are shopping, you know that you are looking for pottery or pillows. This will cut down on impulse buys, you won't blow your money on unnecessary knick-knacks. That pink elephant bank at Urban Outfitters is darling, but you will grow tired of it quickly. This equation can be used in any room. Start with your large function piece (sofa, table or bed) and then add 3P + L. Here's a mood board from my inspiration files:

You get the idea. A quick word about coffee tables. Forget traditional coffee tables. They are boring. Get creative. Use an ottoman, a trunk, a rolling cart, a tray, an outdoor table. I once saw a room with crappy wood crates, painted beautifully used as coffee tables.

Over time you will accumulate more things, but if you keep this simple formula in mind, your home will not look cluttered. It also helps to vigilantly edit and purge. Make room for something new by getting rid of something old first. Here is another picture from my inspiration file. These homeowners have a lovely collection of pottery, some unusual lamps, a large painting and non-traditional coffee tables. I think they need a few more pillows (in a beautiful shade of gray), but that's just me. They've managed to create a space that is simple, uncluttered, warm and inviting. Image Metropolitan Home, Jan/Feb 2008.

I hope this has been helpful. Please contact me if you would like a consultation. I am available to consult on: where to start with your decorating strategy, using color, buying art, organizing and decluttering. Over the next several days I will explore how I use this formula in my own decorating and how I use color.