On Projects In Progress And Decorating With Trends

So we're still working on things and have three projects in various stages of progress-- however none of them are finished yet. So I have a few "before" and "during" pictures. Hopefully the "finished" pictures will be forthcoming.

I'll make no promises when because we are on a summer pace, for sure.

The main thing we're working on is a mini hallway makeover. We were fortunate enough when we moved into our house a couple years ago to not have too much remodeling to do. Most of the house had been renovated-- walls were removed, ceiling were vaulted, counter tops and cabinets replaced, etc. However the hallway seemed to be forgotten. 

No joke. This hallway hardly gets any light. And I messed up my camera settings so a few of them are a little "fun house" looking.


The problem with the hallway was that it still had the original dark wood cabinets and trim, while the rest of the house has been painted with a lighter color palette and white trim. It is already a dark hallway, so the plan is to paint out the hallway to match the rest of the house and add new art work.

Here's the "fun house" picture:

So far, the all the wood has been sanded and I painted the wall around the corner-- with chalkboard paint.

I really had go through some introspection before coming to the decision to paint the wall with chalkboard.

And I didn't want to do something just because it's the thing to do now. I want my home to be a reflection of who we are and things we love--regardless of trends or decorating "rules".


I chose to go ahead and paint it because:

1. I truly love the look of chalkboard.
2. I had the materials already.
3. Most importantly, I will love to draw on that wall.

I used to love to draw. I still do, but I haven't taken the time to sit down and do it in a long time. This wall will give me an excuse to force myself to take the time and unleash my long-forgotten artistic side.

I'm not saying that decorating with trends is a bad thing. If you like to stay on top of the style trends and have the money to do so, then go for it. Just do what you love-- in keeping with proper priorities.

If you love something trendy (chevron, chalkboard, owls, etc.) here are a few things I would encourage you to consider:

• Do you really love it?
• In five years are you still going to love it?
• Can you afford it?
• Can you afford to change it if you don't love it in 5 years?
• Does it fit with the rest of your home?

If all the answers are "yes" then go for it!


Have you decorated with the trends?