Inside Avenue Giveaway

One of our new sponsors is Inside Avenue and I could spend hours on their website.  They've generously offered us a giveaway (at bottom of post)!  I thought I'd share a few of my favorite things from the website with you.  How beautiful are these brass scales below?  {Oh my gosh I want them!!!}:



They have a huge selection of garden stools & I particularly love this one which reminds me of my Grandmother's lamps & the one I found for my bedroom at a flea market:



They have a ton of beautiful pillows too:




And they carry some of my favorite lighting manufacturers.  Oh my:



How cool is this sea anemone mirror (below)?  I'd love to use this in a lake house I'm working on...




I cannot get over their Boticelli Mirrors (below, also in white & black).  SOOOOOO GORGEOUS & wish I had a spot for one!!! Hmmm....  maybe future bathroom??




And finally, like I said, they've offered to give one of our readers a pair of these sleek mirrored oval trays by Arteriors Home.  (Valued at $300.)  How perfect for creating a little bar stations at a party?! 


Thank you so much to Tessa from Inside Avenue for the generous giveaway!! 
For your chance to win the trays, tell us what part of a room you like to splurge on when decorating to give the whole space a higher-end feel/ look without breaking the budget overall.  (Leave it in the comments section & can't wait to hear...  I'll do a follow-up post on the results too :) 
  I'm picking a random winner & will announce him or her on Tuesday so check back then!

xoxo,
lauren

Have a great weekend and I'm off to search for a coffee table for the BHG shoot.  (They say my lucite one will confuse readers because it will look like things are floating, so they sent me a beatuful white marble one from Wisteria to borrow for the shoot, but it's round and I've got a little too much roundness going on in the living room & with end tables &B the dining table and it's not working for me..)    Enjoy the snow if you have it!

And don't forget the 5th and State Exterior Makeover Giveaway!!!  (Click the top right picture in my sidebar for details.)

166 comments:

GRuss said...

For the living room, I like to have one or two beautiful dark wood antiques (buffet, cabinet, etc.) and then fill in with less expensive items from Home Goods, pier one or flea market/thrift store finds (like end tables, pillows, unique items for table tops and shelves).

paula said...

I think nice pillows on a sofa or chair can make everything look higher end that it really is. What a great giveaway. Have fun coffee table hunting. I rather like your lucite though.

Erika Ward said...

Splurge on lamps or curtains!

I loved your post on yesterday, I can totally relate to the entrepreneurship/family balance issue. You have to work at it constantly. As long as you are aware and are actively trying to improve, it all falls into place! Have a great weekend!!

julielorusso@gmail.com said...

My splurge is on plants and orchids, because I think they bring a room to life. I like old accessories and furniture that are reworked to look current, but still has the quality of older furniture. Nothing in my house is too precious, but everything is beautiful and it works for us.

Abbey @ Practically Perfect said...

I would splurge on my kitchen! With the dark 1970s cabinets it needs an update! Thanks for introducing us to another great store!

Anonymous said...

I always splurge on the living room! I find that it is the heart of the house. It is the room you want to feel great about. When guests come, it is the perfect backdrop to a fabulous party.
Best,
Amy Meier

Patricia said...

Wow... thanks so much!
i would redo my living room. i really want to make better use if the space and to possibly add a small dining area to it!

My Notting Hill said...

Lauren - Great giveaway. The room I'd splurge on - my dark brown office/den that is becoming our dining room/library. It's painted BM North Creek Brown and I'm going for a more formal, cozy feel than the rest of my house. I need to find a shallow bureau/buffet - those mirrored trays would look great on it!

Jen said...

I would love to gut our kitchen and make it completely new and fancy, but on a budget. A farm house sink, slick counter tops and some where to get to organize my spices. Oh....to dream.

Acanthus and Acorn said...

I always like to do a splurge in the bathroom, especially a powder room. Either with wallpaper, a great mirror, artwork, or a beautiful tray to hold something seasonal! Good luck with the coffee table! :)

Unknown said...

Great giveaway! My biggest splurge is usually on art. To me, a beautiful painting can really change the feel of the room and is worth the extra money. :)

Amber said...

I would love to splurge on my kitchen since all the action seems to go on in there.

kay said...

I'm planning to get white linen slipcovers for my dining room chairs--very tailored. Can't wait for the brighter look.

pve design said...

Oh boy, a good mattress, great lighting, comfy seating, a fresh new color -but the art is to master a high end look without breaking the bank. I would say color palette has a lot to do with it, keeping the colors rich in a happy way. White in the bathroom always looks high end! I guess I think in living color.
pve

Deb said...

You have the nicest posts! My big splurge is always in the living room.
Love to win!

sara@augustfields said...

wow...what a GREAT giveaway!!!!

when i decorate i guess my splurges would be a unique lamp. i tend to gravitate to lamps at goodwill, thrift shops, and tj maxx. it's more of a element of "spunk" rather than a splurge since i don't spend a lot on them.

A guy and a girl said...

Its the kitchen for me. I spend time cooking, creating...eating. I would love to design one that is functional and lust (or blog) worthy.

Sara said...

My splurge is on curtains and artwook! What a great giveaway :)

Jeannine | The Small and Chic Home said...

Lighting. I always splurge on lighting. Of course, my splurge might be someone else's affordable. :)

I love scouring Shades of Light in Richmond or their outlets in Midlothian or at the beach for nice, statement fixtures.

Jennifer said...

I would love to polish up the bedroom. With a hectic family life, the master bedroom has never felt like the retreat to adult-land that I so crave.

Jennifer said...

Ack, forgot to finish that comment. I would splurge on lighting and bedding, while staying cheap with curtains and art. I love a collection of old birdhouses on the wall better than any Monet.

Laura Trevey said...

Definitely our den/living area where we spend all of our time! Gorgeous accessories and fabulous giveaway!!

xoxo Laura

Cassie Bustamante said...

my biggest splurge is generally on the sofa. i know that it is always a piece we are going to have around for a long time, so i like to make sure we love it! i can change pillows and accessories to change the look over time, but the money definitely needs to go into the sofa!

Unknown said...

I like to buy orchids for my living room and nice candles. I think the scent makes the room feel better. Good look with the coffee table, I really like the lucite though!

Mom About Town said...

My splurge is in the master bedroom on beautiful linens. Great giveaway and love your posts! Happy Valentine's Day weekend!

Angela said...

Great giveaway! The store has beautiful items.

I love to splurge on artwork and lighting and keep everything else budget-friendly.

ArchitectDesign™ said...

Great giveaway, I hope I win!

I think artwork and decorative objects that give personality to a space and represent you. They also tend to be the first things people notice (or worse, DON'T notice!).

LuluD said...

Hi Lauren,

I love your blog. The scales are beautiful. Can't wait to visit their site. I splurge on lighting and mirrors. I think they add instant elegance and allow other items to be simple.

Kelly said...

Those trays are gorgeous!

I guess it depends on whether you mean "splurging on renovations" or only on decorations. We are currently doing both. If on renos, I would say the bathroom, but if on decorating, I would have to say the living room. After all, that is the room we spend the most time in!

Alaina @ Live Creating Yourself said...

I'd say I splurge on art. Not necessarily the art itself but the framing is so costly that it is hands-down the most expensive feature in any room. Otherwise I rely on used furniture and gifted accessories.

Alaina

Low Tide High Style said...

Good luck on your coffee table search, I know you'll find something great!

I like to use light fixtures or lamps as a way to make a room special. A unique light fixture or lamp can really draw the eye around the room and of course they provide illumination as an added bonus! But the cheapest way I know of to make a room special is fresh flowers!

Those trays are wonderful and thanks for the chance to win them! Have a great weekend!

Kat :)

Shea said...

I am sucker for artwork. I will splurge on nice, professional art pieces which I blame completely on my families influence. Having family members who are very taleneted, professional artist I have become a young art "snob!" As a result, my walls remain a blank as my budget doesn't allow for much art!

Happen Valentine's Day!

Shea

Willow Decor said...

Wow! Fabulous items!! I would splurge on the living room! I love making that room so special!
xx-Gina

Janell @ House of Fifty said...

Oh, count me in for a chance. What gorgeous goods! I'd splurge on lighting to bring a special element to a room...Janell

Design Esquire said...

Wow! The tray is beautiful. In general, I think fresh flowers are a great splurge. As to decorating, I think the family room and living room are good slurges, and as to renovating, I think the kitchen is where I would spend the most money.

Good luck finding a coffee table!

Robyn Thompson said...

no matter which room, which home, which style of decor -- splurge on fresh flowers! everywhere, all the time!

Tammy@InStitches said...

I say splurge on the draperies, they make such an impact on the room.

Barbara Matson said...

I'd splurge on my family room. It is a room we are always in. I think the trays would look great on my leather ottoman. I would love new blinds, drapes, artwork, area rug and update my bookcases!

A girl can always dream....(but those trays would look fab in my house!)

Jared, Amanda, Jackson & Hutch said...

My living room. I really want to reupholster our sofa and chair to give it more of a pop of color.

Perri Budd said...

I discovered your blog a few weeks ago and now I'm totally addicted. I live in a studio in New York so lighting is so important. I definitely splurge on lighting. With limited natural light, its important to me to have beautiful lamps and fixtures.

Kathysue said...

I think it is the jewelry as I like to call it, that brings a room up a notch. My favorite is to do it with lighting. Lighting to me is one of the most important elements to make a room have a certain feel. Great piece I am going to go and visit their site, thank you for sharing and the give away, You can never have too many trays. Kathysue

Brittany said...

Living room gets the most action in my house, and I am willing to spend on upholstery. No point in having an uncomfortable sofa in a fabric you have to try to camoflauge!

MFAMB said...

gorgeous trays!!! tell the BHG people that the wisteria table will work perfect in my living room..send it here please and thank you.
as for the splurge...i would say for me its my bedding. it's usually a splurge anyway for a king size bed but i still tend to buy higher end sheets and blankets and pillows. im not talking thousands..but hundreds..
that and maybe a lot of fresh flowers. i can't afford expensive furniture or accessories really..to me expensive is a hundred bucks so..i guess everyone is different..

Tracy Watier said...

Toss pillows (or the fabric needed to stitch them up myself) and other things that guests actually touch and fresh flowers They always look like a splurge even if you only paid $5.99 a bunch at Trader Joe's.

Katherine said...

It would have to be my dining room, which is in dire need of some attention. Most of my childhood memories include conversations at the dining room table, and only after the candles were out and cigars and cognac were being served was I allowed to be excused. Now, I have my first home, and the dining room is in the center of the house, so it can't be missed. I'd love to splurge on materials to make a built-in china cabinet, and an antique table with some louis chairs. I love your blog, btw!!

Sarah said...

I tend spend more on key pieces in the room (couch in the living room, hutch in the dining room, etc) and then look for bargains to accessorize the room. That way, if I want to change things around (which I'm constantly doing), I leave the key pieces and change the accents.

Nancy said...

i'd splurge on a sofa, something that's going to be used every day...its gotta be a good one to stand up to my 3 little boys :)

Farrell said...

Thanks for letting me know about this website! I'd love to splurge on the bathroom - a girl needs a nice place to relax!

LindsB said...

I would love to spend more on fabrics for my place, specifically new curtains. Right now mine are a blah mushroom brown and they are just not doing anything for me. They dont have to be crazy expensive or custom, just nice quality. I think curtains make a room.

Love this giveaway- these would look amazing on my new coffee table. Well, that's if I ever find the right one...I am on the hunt for a new one.

Good luck in your search for a new coffee table, I have no doubt that you will find a great one.

Marty@A Stroll Thru Life said...

Oh I hadn't found this site before, but what gorgeous things. I agree, you could spend hours there. The two trays are just fabulous, I would definitely use them in the living room or the dining room. I like to try and make my LR/DR combination look the most interesting and classy. It's the first thing you see when you enter the house, so I want it to make the best impression possible. Great giveaway and great site. Hugs, Marty

DecRenew Interiors said...

I always splurge on great lamps and down filled pillows for my couch. Lamps can make a room come alive and style to any room. Pillows can add color and create a comfy touch to any room.

Ruthie

V said...

These are so gorgeous. I splurge on lighting and I have focused in the living room so far, the only room close to "finished". I spent an uncharacteristic amount of money on a pair of amazing gold scones with leather shades for the living room. I LOVE them, and I love pendant lamps. And I love these items you've posted, especially the chandelier!

Red Door Home said...

I like to splurge on fabric since I can do my own sewing. I get a custom look for a lot less.

The Kingrea's said...

Just found your blog- love it!!! The room that I splurge on would be outdoor living space. I love to bring the outdoors in- it is an extension of the house and used for entertaining- especially in the South. Also, spluge on artwork-love keeping my pallete neutral and adding splash of color with original artwork!

Brittany said...

It's funny, but sometimes splurging on things in the bathroom can make a huge difference. nice towels, a great candle. little things can make a big difference in such a small room!

Mandy Mae said...

For me, it's curtains. I think they're one of the best accessories a room can have, and if they're nice and they're hung well, it can make the room. So I'd splurge on curtains.

Thanks for the wonderful blog and the great giveaway!

Living It At Home said...

I think the area I would like to do a big splurge is my bedroom. There is just nothin' going on in there...decor wise! Right now it is so bland and it would be nice to create a cozy haven where I can go to relax.
I love Inside Avenue! What a great store and I am so happy to have a chance to win those gorgeous trays!

Thank you,
Jamilyn

Blair said...

I love your blog and these adorable trays!!!

I love anything renovation (also splurges and thrift;)) but I think that having a really lovely piece of art (I personally love impressionistic landscapes in oil) can make any room come together. I say, the more you use the vertical space, the better!

have a nice weekend!
xoxo,
Blair

Kate said...

I think beautiful window treatments are a great splurge to make a room feel expensive and chic.

P.S. Those trays are fabulous!

Allison said...

I love to splurge on the dining room. We eat at home and entertain to save money, but eating on nice dishes and a collection of unique and pretty serving pieces helps it feel special and intimate. AWESOME giveaway!

Erty639 said...

I would splurge on lamps, a good rug and an antique mirror. I hesitate to buy these big ticket items for fear of hating them in a year. So, here I sit, in the 80's! I need to take the plunge. Thanks for the giveaway. Your blog is so fun and thoughtful.

Aly said...

I really love fake orchids. I always kill the real ones, but love the look they add to a room. A beautiful orchid arrangement can save the day!

Fashion Maven said...

Hmmmm. In real life, my splurges are probably on just the house alone - I live in CA and my mortgage feels like a splurge!

But in my alternate, awesome decorator fantasy life, my splurges would probably be on the flooring. I've noticed that good flooring typically makes everything in it look better.

My secondary splurge would be on statement pieces - my first statement piece was buying a tiffany colored sofa - years before it became "trendy". I think every room needs at least one statement piece to draw your eye.

karlee said...

I like splurging on small items, rather than large. A couple of expensive throw pillows won't cost as much as an expensive sofa. It's all about the details!!

raptee said...

Whether it's luxe or thrift, the design element should (must) be something that impacts you each and every day--so how about the bathroom, I mean, we GO there every day: white waffle weave towels--they SMELL good, they LOOK good, they FEEL good.

Melissa said...

I think the best splurge is down pillows. They make any room look high end. That, and lighting, plus one really amazing accent fabric!

Ashley said...

Lauren-- I absolutely love your blog and identify with many of your posts. I splurge on draperies. I think that they really make a room feel warm and "homey".

Ashley
www.invitingabode.blogspot.com

Lauren Comet said...

I am finally willing to splurge on a quality sofa--I have tried cheap ones, and they just bring the look of the whole room down. My next one will be really nice!

Connie @ SogniESorrisi said...

Good luck on your search! Love the mirrors and stool from Avenue.

Kitchen and living room are the two biggest splurge area. I think if you get a few good pieces (ie: good sofa or custom cabinets) the rest can be decorated with lower priced items and still look luxe and expensive.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Monica said...

Hello !!!
I must say I'm ashamed that I have only commented now,when there's a give -a -way going on,but I can be off the record if you wan't to, living in Italy,Romw , being swedish.
What I have to say, is that I love your blog, only discovering it a couple of weeks ago......but already addicted.
I love it's happiness, your simple ( well ,maybe not so simple, but organized to look so, wish is very, very, difficult to achieve )but soooo beautiful style, your attitude to interiors while being a mum and wife.
What I ALWAYS splash out on in a room , or let say EVERY room have something to do with the trays.......because it's always, always a mirror and nearly all the time a huge one.
Why ?!
Because a mirror will always change a room , let in fantasy, light and space.

Wish you a happy weekend !!!
Hugs,
Monica in Rome

Anonymous said...

I love to splurge on lighting. And wine. Does that count? :)

Best, Christine

Anonymous said...

I love to splurge on lighting. And wine. Does that count? :)

Best, Christine

Anonymous said...

what a fantastic giveaway! i like to splurge on family rooms- all visitors to you house almost always end up in that room. i like to draw inspiration from anthropologie, and then recreate their sense of style with a twist! thanks so much for your post on starting you own business- i just started my own photography business, and it was seeming very hard. your post let me know that everyone goes through rough patches in the beginning!

Anonymous said...

Hi Lauren! I usually splurge on public spaces (eg Family rooms), but I am starting to reconsider and would like to glam up my Master Bedroom instead and see it as more of a haven versus a dumping ground. I am thinking about more functional furnishings, more textiles...and those trays!

Alisa D said...

I splurge on things I (or my guests) would touch... towels, bedding, throw pillows. I feel like you can't fake quality in a textile like you can in a wall hanging or accessory. We will be splurging on new living room furniture too... we've found that in major furniture pieces we'd rather pay a bit more for quality so it will last.

Thanks for the fantastic giveaway!!

Dianne said...

It's the bones of a room that really make it. If the trims are good and not skimpy and the passageways are deep and the windows are pretty anything can go inside and show up beautifully!

Pamela said...

I would love to splurge on a new kitchen. I have a great room and a new kitchen would really make it so much nicer.

Tensy said...

I usually splurge on the public rooms (living room/kitchen) which are most often seen by my friends and family, but I would love to redo my master bedroom. We are lucky to have good architectural bones and lots of space. The furnishings were inherited, but I like the furniture because it is off-white painted wood and beautifully made. What I would love to splurge on would be new bedding, paint, curtains and a chandelier!

Stacy said...

I like to splurge on decadent fabrics for the bedroom - snuggly blankets, gorgeous curtains, really nice sheets, big fluffy robes and towels. It's nice to have things in your bedroom that make you feel pampered.

Julianna Farmer said...

the actual furniture, the bones of the room

Dana said...

I like to splurge on statement pieces! Like a lovely persian rug or a luxurious sofa, good luck coffee table shopping! That's so exciting BHG will be shooting! congrats!

Emily A. Clark said...

I think the splurge is best used in the artwork or mirrors that make the biggest statement in the room. You can always find steals on furniture if you're willing to paint or recover pieces.

Cannot wait to hear about the BHG shoot!

The Malko's said...

I love to splurge on the bathroom - it is the smallest and easiest to redor - a nice showercurtain made by hand picked fabric is my weakness!

Pick me for the tray! I love it!!

~Brooke
brooke.malko@gmail.com

Erin said...

I think window treatments can set the mood of a room. Based upon the fabric used you change the feeling of the entire room.

Eryn said...

I like to splurge on fixtures like chandeliers! A beautiful one makes a room.

mindy said...

the family room it is one room i get to let my eclectic tastes shine through thanks for the giveaway minsthins at optonline dot net

Wendy said...

Fabric. I like to splurge on Fabric. It really makes a space look finished.

jemscout425 said...

My master bedroom. I would love to give it that 1930's hollywood movie feel
pksanddancer(at)yahoo(dot)com

Unknown said...

I believe that linens from curtains to pillows bring a room together! Whenever possible I try to splurge on these pieces when decorating

elisabeth (bovagoods) said...

most most expensive thing we have purchased for our home is our sofa. it's from rowe and we love it. we have had it now for almost eight years and hope to have it for much longer. i love to make different pillow covers and switch them out as my style changes. which is often. ;)

i love your lucite table. as a bhg reader...it wouldn't have confused me one bit. oh well...have fun shopping for another one!

Unknown said...

Hi there -

This is the first time I have ever left comment on any blog but I do enjoy reading them all the tme. Hopefully my shyness will soon dissappear :)

I wld invest in quality sofa/couch in living room and then fill it with refurbished flea market finds, Homegoods and TJ MAX. I'm also partial to nice accessories as some strategically placed ones really uplift the mood and atmosphere in a room.

Suse said...

I like to splurge on furniture- buying solid pieces that are timeless.

Unknown said...

To me - you don't have to spend a lot on a lamp but a good quality shade makes a difference. Also pillows that have trim- Those things make a room feel finished as well as artwork that is not mass produced. Thank you for this opportunity!!!
Jean

Unknown said...

I'd splurge on something for the living room, either a nice comfy couch or a lovely antique furniture piece. =)

Melissa said...

I think pretty, stylish window treatments can really make a room so that's my must-have splurge!

CaRoLiNe said...

Furniture for the study or living room....somewhere where people gather so it has maximum usage and impact!

Jeanie said...

My favorite splurge is my marble/glass coffee table and end tables. Everyone loves them and they look even more expensive than we actually paid for them. I've got a line of people who want to buy them if we ever get rid of them, but I never will. Next time I move, I want the decor of the new living room to be built around these pieces.

wildcat32 said...

I like to splurge on my bedroom. I love redoing the comforter and such at least every year and have to have my king pillowtop mattress.
monster6236(at)gmail(dot)com

Kate Riley said...

Oh my, those would go anywhere in my house. Bedside table, living room cocktails, even in the bathroom holding glass containers. Lovely ! Pick me !

Anonymous said...

I'll splurge on anything that I really, really like for any room. But of course the public rooms, living, dining, and powder room, are prime.

knr210 said...

Pillows in fabulous fabric and anything made out of carerra marble are always go-to items for me.

kakihara said...

My favorite place in the whole house is the fire place and the mantel and above the mantel---I'm obsessed--I change mine constantly. kakihararocks@gmail.com

Lissa Pierce said...

I would have to say splurging on art really takes a room to the next level. Thanks for the giveaway and love the blog!!!!

Jamie said...

Gorgeous!

I travel extensively for work and pick up original art pieces as I travel (usually fairly inexpensively) but I end up splurging on frames to display them

Hilda said...

I think splurging on high end, beautiful fabric always pays off, whether it's in the form of upholstery, draperies, pillows, or a round tablecloth.

Sixty-Fifth Avenue said...

Love the tray! I would say the living room would be my splurge space while still staying with my budget.
p.s. I love your lucite table!

oh that's just PEACHY! said...

Want a new kitchen- BADLY! ASAP!!

:O)

Thanks,
Rachael

Cristin // Simplified Bee said...

I splurge on appliances, the sofa, lighting, window treatments and rugs. I guess artwork too.

Great giveaway!

xo,
cristin

Marsha said...

I'd have to say the kitchen...tiling and appliances can't be faked and are definitely worth the extra money.

Barbie said...

So far in my house, I've found the place to splurge is on textiles--especially on a bed or on pillows, where you're touching them all the time; good fabrics add so much luxury to a home. Even if your place is small, little touches of luxury in every room can make you feel like a king/queen.

Linda in AZ * said...

* L~ Loved sooo many perrrrty things, but I've actually been LOOKING for a CHARMING, OLD SCALE like the one in your first pic...... Think you can help me out? (This looks mahhhhvelous, dahlink'!)~

Thanks n' hugs!
Linda in AZ
bellesmom1234@comcast.net

Bex said...

In every room I splurge on one really beautiful piece of furniture. Everything else--paint, pillows, curtains, wall art, I DIY or do on a budget. My dining room has a gorgeous table, surrounded by ikea chairs.

O.C. said...

In general I tend to splurge on lamps/light fixtures. I can make most other things myself, including furniture, but making things like lamps is outside my do-it-yourself realm. In the kitchen the answer would have to be appliances.

Zoe said...

I love the way a fabulous frame and mat can elevate even the most modest piece of art -and I'd hang it in the kitchen - I love art in a kitchen.
Zoe

Jill said...

I love your blog! I am moving to a new home next week and have so many great ideas from you. I decided that my next house I am splurging on the master bedroom. That is the one room in my current home that has not been updated or decorated. I can't wait to get started on my many projects thanks to you:)

Fiona said...

The part of the room is would splurge on is pendant lighting or lamps, followed by artwork. I find you can usually search and find something beautiful that is on sale or discounted. Art work doesn't have to high-end (thanks, Etsy!) but has to be something you love that adds character and spark.

GayLyn said...

I like to splurge on the bathroom. Just simple things can make it feel so much more luxurious. Beautiful towels,baskets. soaps,bubbles, bath sponge, candles, tub tray, hooks for big soft robes, glass containers to show off q-tips, makeup remover pads, thick rug by the tub.

robyn2910 said...

In the dining room for a dinner party, I like to splurge on the table linens and serving pieces. These are the things that guests (and myself) touch and see close-up. Plus, there are such beautiful and interesting pieces that are available to suit the mood of the evening.

I love the mirror tray!

Dawn said...

I REALLY need to splurge on my family room...it is in need of a re-do! Love all their wonderful things!

Betty said...

Inside Avenue is a great site. I'd love to splurge and add lantern chandeliers over my long dining room table, and they have some great ones.
I'd also love to win those trays.... I'd use one in a bathroom and the other on a baker's rack. Thanks for your great blog.

Anonymous said...

Definitely the living room. That's where we spend all our time and where we entertain. We moved into our house in July and haven't TOUCHED the upstairs yet.

Beth said...

Oh my gosh where do I start, probably our dining room, we could use a new table and comfortable chairs. I don't like lingering after a meal there, too uncomfortable.

Michelle said...

My husband and I splurged on a sofa and leather chair for the living room to give the room a more high-end feel. We paired those purchases with some cheaper pieces and some antiques we have repainted! We love it!

Debbie said...

Beautiful trays. I fugure if you have good seating then everything else just follows. Splurging on the seating, thats the way to go. Blessings, Debbie

Alyson said...

I love a bargain and am very thrify but I find that curtains and custom throw pillows (so anything involving by the yard fabric) can be pricey but do add so much. Just discovered your blog and I am enjoying it.

Unknown said...

I think that great pillows and lamps really can make a room look like you spent a million bucks (and with great websites there are some amazing deals out there).

Stacy said...

I think window treatments are a good place to splurge because they give a lot of visual impact. Thanks for the great giveaway!

techyone said...

My splurge would be on my kitchen. Its driving me nuts trying to figure out how to update it.

sheley. said...

My latest splurges have been on lighting!

Unknown said...

I agree - the lighting makes any room.

whateverisgood.wordpress.com said...

I believe a good splurge is on upholstered pieces, like sofa and chair. Quality lasts!

~Chandelier No. 4~ said...

Hi Lauren! I love to splurge on fabrics. Silk drapes or pillow cases add such a luxurious feel to any room.

~ Joanna

P.S. Can't wait to see your new coffee table! Whatever you choose will look AMAZING.

felicity said...

I splurge on fabrics. Actually, I buy splurge-worthy fabric on eBay so it isn't usually too much of a splurge. Having nice curtains, especially with the 8' windows in my house, makes all the difference in my rooms.

Dawn said...

In any room in my house, I find that art makes the most dramatic statement without necessarily spending much money. I have framed bits of old fabric, pressed leaves I have found, pages from old books of my grandfather's, all things with have meaning to me and give my home the most personal kind of luxury. Thanks for all of the inspiration. I love your blog!

Anonymous said...

I like to splurge on the living, it's where I spend most of my awake time.

Nycole
knycks1@aol.com

Amanda S. said...

I like to splurge on things for my living room...especially lighting. Thanks!

bluehydrangea said...

I splurge on fabulous fabrics for pillows...you don't have too order too much fabric and if you change your mind, no big deal!

Riviera Boardwalk said...

What a beautiful blog site. Thank you for sharing!
xoxo,
nancy

bison61 said...

I'd love to redo my living room-I'd like new drapes a lighter color. and some new pictures for the wall

tiramisu392 (at) yahoo.com

Ali said...

Those are awesome! I like to splurge on the coffee table "area" I admit right now the table itself could use an upgrade, but I like to have beautiful and interesting things rotating through that area, that draw people's eye and give them a sense of my style.

Anonymous said...

Hi Lauren, Thank you for the opportunity to win these great trays! I like to splurge in both my living room and my bedroom as both are very key rooms in my house. If I can splurge, it would always be for good pieces of furniture with lasting style and quality. I don't always look for expensive new things; I usually keep an eye out on craigslist or ebay to stretch my dollar!

andrea s. said...

I love to splurge on my kitchen and bedroom!! Linens are my favorite to get and can add subtle color to any room. :)

kottagekara said...

drapes, drapes, drapes....I LOVE your blog...keep up the good work!

lisa m said...

The thing that I splurge on is my sofas in both my living room and family rooms! They are my forever furniture! The rest of the pieces can change with my style....but the sofas are classic and beautiful.
Love your blog. Happy Valentines Day to all!

jennem said...

In the living room, a focal coffee table.

Jennifer, jennem22 at yahoo dot com

Unknown said...

I love the little details in a room that make it look more special. Candles, a vase of flowers, a mirror reflecting the light from outdoors, a bowl filled with fruit.

Karen said...

This time of year makes me want to splurge on a throw to curl up with in my living room - Happy Valentines Day! Karen carter3150@gmail.com

Randy and Danielle said...

WE are currently in the process of building a new home and when we move in in June, I would love to splurge on the family room/everything room. We hang out in our FR all the time so I want beautifulness everywhere! With the cost of blinds, backyard fence and all the "extras" I know our budget will be tight so I would love to start collecting pieces now, :)!! Thanks!

Katie @ Noodle and Boof said...

yes, please!

Jennifer Stavropoulos said...

Such pretty things! I love the trays! I would splurge on a cashmere throw in my living room. You can feel the difference and it covers spots on the sofa slipcover with high-end luxury.

Candes said...

My dining room is the room I have made up the best. The combination of cherry wood, bohemian crystal, antigue dishes and glassware, and brass look soo lovely. But non of it broke the bank. :)

kate said...

my splurge is in the living room on the upholstered seating - if the seating is beautiful, plush and comfortable everything else falls into place no matter what the price.

Unknown said...

I splurge on lighting, not necessarily spending a ton on a single piece but having sufficient and appropriate lighting makes or breaks a room. Adding layers of it with wall sconces, a chandelier, table lamps, dimmer switches and of course candles really dictates the mood and affects every other part of the room in every part of the house. Builder's basic vanity lights (the row of exposed bulbs) won't make any bathroom spa-like no matter how much marble you throw at it and a chef's dream kitchen would be useless if you can't see the garlic from the onions.

jedesign0 said...

My house is really small (only 1,000 square feet) and the first thing you see is the dining room. So, this is where I like to spend my money... I'm currently looking to splurge on a dramatic and unique chandelier!

Lisa said...

I always go out and buy some white tulips and put them in a fancy vase for my living room to add some style. I would love those beautiful trays! Thanks for the wonderful blog!

Morgan & Imanol said...

For a big budget splurge, I always go with large pieces of furniture (especially seating such as armchairs and sofas), but to splurge without breaking the budget, I like to go with new linens and bed coverings. This completely changes a room and isn't too expensive. I love the look and feel of expensive bedding and the impact it has, even if the furniture is Ikea.

Lynne said...

My splurge tends to br the tables... I love different and beautiful tables. For example, my coffee table is a very large drum that sits in a metal frame. Everyone comments on it. Thanks for the great giveaway!

Ann Ever said...

Fabrics and or one really nice furniture piece. I love to mix new and old so I like to try to put a great antique piece in every room. oh, and I love the coffee table makeover!

Unknown said...

I would love to splurge on one or two lamps and a throw for the family room. I've always felt lighting is key and a throw makes a room feel cozy. Thanks!

Lovely Little Nest said...

I like to splurge on our Master Bedroom, particularly on our sheets! You spend about 56 hours of your week in bed, so we like to make it as cozy as possible :)

Anonymous said...

Ahhh those are glorious!!! I am one to splurge on a good sofa - it'll last for years and then can be reupholstered - best to get a classic shaped one, sturdy one! My first out of college furniture purchase was the camelback sofa from Restoration Hardware and I never once regretted it.

her life beautiful said...

Living Room and Bathroom... two areas that get the most traffic.

I live by the sea and with the economy the way it is... we're all trying to save a dime here and there. SO, by taking advantage of my surroundings and love for the ocean... I've used beautiful driftwood as a center piece for our mantel adorned with beautiful shells(one piece of driftwood and shell as photo holders) with a small vase filled with purple seaweed... so pretty and SIMPLE!

The bathroom... blue starfish accenting our espresso stained mirror with shell adornments above the shower curtain(handmade on a penny budget of course).

LOVE LOVE LOVE accents... simple, clean, practical living!

ryepye said...

I would like to splurge on lamps and a fireplace makeover for my family room.

Love your new Restoration Hardware table makeover too!

Lori Bee said...

Splurge??? hmmmm....
I love to splurge and use a nice mirror or 2, have them all over my home.
I think it's great fun to swap accessories in and out, too~

Gorgeous trays & I love the whole coffee table makeover.
Thanks for sharing~

Pretty Little Things for Home & Life said...

Since my living room is where everyone congregates when we have people over. I spend the most time and money decorating it. It's also open to the entire main floor. I probably splurge the most of artwork. Artwork makes a huge impact in a space, and is less likely to be chnaged every month, as with accessories.

Unknown said...

Splurge on flowers! Orchids for elegant cocktail parties, brunches and luncheons; bright orange and yellow gerberas for a pizza party or fiesta!