Interior Designer Gina Milne's beautiful blog Willow Decor was one of the first design blogs that spoke to me.
I first felt a connection to Gina because of our shared love for Swedish antiques and Belgian design...
Gina's Mora Clock is stunning!
As I became an avid follower of Gina's blog, I was so impressed by her own projects that she shared with her readers. When Gina revealed her pantry remodel, where she turned this....
into this gorgeous space, I was just amazed!
What a lovely place to work!
You must visit Gina's blog to see her kitchen remodel. I don't know how she ever leaves her home!
I have such admiration and respect for Gina's talent. You can only imagine how thrilled I was when she accepted my request to do a guest blog post for my series "What we've learned". I know you will be inspired by Gina's tips as much as I was!
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As a huge fan of Velvet and Linen I was so excited when Brooke asked to me participate in her “What We’ve Learned” feature. I have been writing Willow Décor since early 2008 and over the years I have seen a common thread of what really works in decorating. It was difficult to narrow it down but here are my top three tips.
1. Paint Can Transform!
Whether it is a room, floor or a piece of furniture, there are thousands of examples out there. I am sure you have heard it this countless times – but the fact is that paint remains the most impactful and least expensive decorating tool.
Above is photo of my beach house before with dirty soot covered fireplace and dated knotty pine walls.
And the after – just a few cans of primer and paint and we go from dreary to beachy.
Of course you are not limited to painting walls – floors, like the one above, can also add incredible and inexpensive impact.
2. Choose Accessories with a Sculptural Quality or Patina!
Go for accessories that are unique but also have a beautiful sculptural quality like this Burlieghware breadbox from Stonewall Kitchen.
Look how beautiful it looks displayed in this pantry.
Another favorite are accessories with patina like these antique vellum books.
Image via Rose Tarlow
Look at how much depth and warmth they add to this bookcase.
3. Learn from and Emulate the Greats!
image via Catalano Architects
The internet is such a wonderful resource. We have access to so many talented interior designers and architects. So many of them have websites that you can access, as well as areas where you can browse their portfolios.
image via Suzanne Kasler
Many also have blogs which offer incredible tips of the trade. Read, explore and bookmark those styles which resonate with you.
image via Suzanne Kasler
Over the years I have had the great opportunity to meet several of my design idols and learn about many others. I have found all of them to be very generous in providing information to me about rooms that a client or l love. It’s been my experience that Designers and Architects are always willing to share. It’s a wonderful community!
Of course one of my all time favorite spots for learning and eye candy is Velvet and Linen! I love Brooke’s gorgeous style and wonderful design insights. I am a better designer because Brooke has been so generous and forthcoming with advice and information. She has always been such an inspiration to me. It’s been such a thrill to part of this! Thank you so much Brooke!!
xox Gina
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Thank you so much Gina! To view more of Gina's work and to see what inspires her designs, please visit her at Willow Decor!
xo
Brooke
If you would like help creating the home of your dreams, email me about our design services. You can also purchase many items found here on Velvet and Linen as well as "to the trade" furnishings through Giannetti Home. Email Kelly about the details.
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