Spark

Ashley Sullins, our South Austin design darling, shares some of her inexpensive, innovative ideas for punching up her home. She has a knack for turning not-so-pretty bargain finds into pretty-darn-cute designer discoveries. Borrow some inspiration from Ashley or invite her over to talk “cheap chic” in your home. Adding a little ‘spark’ to your home does not need to break the bank!

Ashley says. . .

Ashley's Modern Birdie Nursery

I needed a mobile for my daughter’s bedroom, so I made one using a fallen branch and Christmas ornaments. After the holiday season, I bought discounted bird ornaments in a range of styles and sizes to adorn the branches. I attached the branch to the ceiling with 3 cup hooks and clear fishing line.

You can see and old window in the mirror’s reflection that I turned into artwork. I simply painted the window frame then painted details on the back side of the glass. The nice thing is I can just scrape the painting off the glass with a razor blade if I ever want a new “view”!

Painted Shower Curtain

This bathroom is small , but I still wanted it to make a big style statement. I gave new life to an old pair of khaki curtains by painting rough, uneven lines in gold. I installed the curtain rod at the ceiling to instantly make the ceiling feel higher. I also painted the ceiling so there is no visual line to stop the eye. The room feels and looks much bigger…for free!

Grandma's Barstools Get a Facelift

When I found an outdated set of barstools at my grandmothers house, I immediately knew that they could be saved. I spray painted over the white with gold accents and recovered the taupe ‘pleather’ seats with a funky animal print. You can even use fabric samples for small seats-most fabric stores have discontinued samples they would be happy to GIVE you!

Floating Frame Mirror

I had a large framed piece of art that was hideous so I re-purposed the frame by removing the glass and artwork, then painted it a fun color. I hung it over an antique mirror for an instant updated look! It also takes up more room and is a great way to fill a wall without having to buy a large piece of art.

Wire Dress Form Dresses Up Fridge

You know that boring space over your refrigerator? Use it for something fun rather than storage for extra large cereal boxes. I have a wire dress form atop my fridge and I change out the hat occasionally (also been known to dress her up for holidays). We all spend so much time in the kitchen, so it’s a great place to add a little whimsy.

Do you have some clever, low-cost design ideas to share?