Window Dressing

Before

Installation

After

One questions I get a lot is what to do with windows in the face of so many choices.  Although I am always happy to give my opinion and advice on someone else's project, it is not so easy on my own home.  I find this is true for most people.  It helps to approach it from a more methodical perspective and imagine it is not your own home.  Window treatments can be the major expense in room, so take your time and consider their use, material, and flow with the rest of the home.

I have to confess that I lived with paper shades in my master bedroom for two years.  In my defense, I was busy with many other projects (my own home mostly), but I really had a hard time deciding.  When I could live with the paper no longer, I carefully considered my options and what worked with the space.  The decisions of matchstick blinds seemed obvious (after two years!).  The natural element of the bamboo really helped tie the room with the view of the woods and lake outside the bedroom window.  

I had them hung just under the crown molding to bring more attention to the ceiling height.  This also allows for full exposure of the window glass for maximum light.  I only wish I had done it earlier.

Christmas Ornament Display

Every year since my husband and I have been married, we have bought a special Christmas ornament to commemorate that year.  Many of the ornaments are crystal and are not very visible when placed on a traditional Christmas tree.  This year I made a display out of naturally shed tree branches to showcase these very special keepsakes.

I used a ceramic vase I had hanging around the house not being used, and then looked around the yard for some branches to hang the ornaments from.  I carefully arrange the branches in the vase making sure to vary the sizes somewhat while still maintaining a balanced look.  Once I was happy with the arrangement, I carefully hung the ornaments.

The total cost of this display was $0.00.  Since I already had the vase and collected branches from the yard, there was also zero waste.  I like using things that are readily available in my yard when I can.  I also think the randomness of the branches gives the display a fabulous look.  If you are in an area where branches are not easy to come by, willow branches from a craft store can be substituted.