Curb appeal makeover

A significant overhaul is worth the cost and time with results like these. Here, designer Nancy Fishelson's tiny stoop was reborn as a wooden deck that spans the front of the house, expanding her outdoor living space.

(before)

(after)

Altering the direction of the stairs to the side – a dramatic structural change – makes for a grander entrance that also adds privacy. The lush foliage further softens the look, while a fresh coat of white paint unites the new porch with the house.  WOW!


{photo via Country Living}

Pretty Neutral Fall Entry Ideas

Use these pretty fall decorating ideas to deck out your front porch this autumn. From gourds to wreaths to porch displays, you're sure to find beautiful fall inspiration.

{photos via BHG}

Etsy Friday Favorite...custom wedding chair signs

 

We couldn't have been happier with the custom wedding chair signs from "Our Hobby to Your Home".  I found them on Etsy and picked the font, color and ribbon for our signs.  They have many options to choose from and much more than just chair signs to pick from.  It provided a special touch to the seating and gave the bride and groom a feeling of pride.  

{photos via Jennefer Wilson Photography}

First Impressions

Fresh flowers, fresh paint, and a well groomed yard give your home an amazing first impression!!

I just love all of these homes and the lovely curb appeal they have.  Whether Fall or Spring you can maintain color and neatness in your yard.  The plantings can be simple or ornate, but just by keeping it well groomed leaves a wonderful first impression to your home.

{photos via houzz}

Happy Weekend!

We are supposed to have a rainy weekend, so this picture really brightened my day.  Have a great one!

Dining al fresco: blues and whites

The weather here has been fabulous and will surely not last long.  These table settings inspire me to serve dinner outside and take advantage of the comfortable temperatures.

I love the crisp feel of the blues and whites and how each setting is so unique.  The lush backdrops aren't bad to look at either!

{photos via Everything Fabulous}

DIY Valentine's day centerpiece

I am a huge fan of tulips for Valentine's day and just adore this centerpiece made with pastel sweetheart candies and fresh flowers.  It was created by Hilton Pittman Photography and I found it on an adorable blog,  The Wedding Chicks.  Visit here for beautiful step by step photos and instructions on how to make this yourself.  Super easy!

{photos via The Wedding Chicks, via Hilton Pittman}

dr. delphinium

Things have been very busy lately, as we are planning our first wedding.  The wedding will be in May and I m loving all phases of the planning.  Had a meeting yesterday with a florist.  As I was waiting on my contact to see me, I couldn't resist taking a few pictures.

dr. delphinium designs and events has been in Dallas, TX for over 20 years and offers the most beautiful florals and events I've seen.  It was voted D Magazine "Best Florist in Dallas" for 2010.  I am looking forward to seeing what they come up with for our daughter's wedding. :}

{photos taken with iphone by me}

Late bloomer

I am so surprised at all the blooms I'm still getting on my mandevilla.  I posted in June about this same plant and you can see now how crazy it got!  Lots of growth and fun to look at.

The pinks have faded some, but according to this article I might be able to save it this winter.  I'll let you know.  Still nice and sunny here!

{photos via me}

Lovely entries

I love each one of these entry tables and accessories!  I think what I am drawn to is the simplicity and natural feel of each.  Soft tones of wood,  nice lighting and fresh greenery or flowers.

{photos via: 1 & 3: Velvet and Linen, 2: Paul Raeside, 4: House and Garden, 5: Carrier and Company}

Etsy Friday Favorite

Flores Del Sol is a wonderful shop on Etsy that is inspired by nature and all things around us.  Christina is a professional that floral designer that creates beautiful arrangements with dried flowers and moss.  Every design is unique and no two are alike.  Be sure to stop by her blog as well!

{photos via Flores Del Sol}

Mandevilla

Lots of color in our flower pots is a favorite and this year I am loving my mandevilla.  I'm always drawn to white flowers, but this vine just happens to have white and pink.  We didn't know this when it was planted, but I do love it.  Mandevillas love the sun and warm weather, so we are in luck.  Easy to care for.

{photos via me at home}

Home grown

My hydrangea plant is blooming so well this year, that I just had to show it off.  Last year we had green leaves and no blooms, this year it is gorgeous.  I love them cut and put in a vase or jug as a centerpiece.

Blue and White

Loving these lovely blue and white photos.  Have a wonderful day.

{photos via: Tara Done photography, Veranda, Ralph Lauren Home, My home ideas}

Love.... J.T. Grant

{photos via JT Grant via William Campebell Contemporary Art}