I have never been one to shy away from new ideas and new trends, which makes me something of an early adaptor – even when it comes to buying things for the house. Once I discover something revolutionary, that solves a design or practical dilemma in a fresh new way, I like to tell the world. Here, the products that have solved some of my most stubborn design dilemmas!
1. FLOR carpet tiles: Think carpet tiles are for garages and office buildings? Then you haven’t seen FLOR. These hip, stylish, gorgeous carpets are now available in a massive variety of styles, to suit every decor from traditional to ultra-modern, and they couldn’t be more kid-friendly. I have the Toy Poodle tiles in Princess Pink in the playroom, and I ADORE them. They are so practical and so stress-free! When a pre-potty-trained Eva had a massive diaper explosion on the carpet, I simply threw out the soiled tiles and stuck new ones in place. For smaller messes, I pick up the tile, rinse it out in the sink, and put it back in place.
2. Wallpaper: It’s back and better than ever. These days wallpaper has shed its stuffy image and has emerged as a stylish, simple update for any room in your home. When I needed to brighten up my husband’s former office to convert it into a playroom for the girls, I chose a bright, bold, girly wallpaper from Designer’s Guild and used it to cover the insides of the picture frame moldings in the paneled walls, and I even used it on the ceiling. It instantly updated the room without permanently damaging the panelling.
3. Reusable Wall Decals: This is an update that is so simple, so affordable, and so completely transforming, that I can’t imagine why any decorating plan shouldn’t include a few of these. I’ve used them in small ways throughout my home, from a rococo-style chalkboard decal in Lola’s room to a handy calendar decal in the kitchen, but I am looking forward to using them to completely transform a space, like my boring white kitchen. They stick on in seconds, and peel off without damaging the walls. What could be easier than that?
4. Bring the Outdoors In: No, I’m not talking about plants. I’m talking about outdoor fabrics. A chic friend of mine upholstered all the furniture in her new home with Sunbrella outdoor fabrics. She has three young kids, and loved how easy they are to care for. Outdoor fabrics are designed to be extremely durable, and can be wiped or hosed clean. And the array of colors and patterns and textures mean you never have to compromise on style. For a simple update, replace your stuffy throw pillows with outdoor ones!
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