Sunday, September 6, 2009

Happy Hidden Trash

Don't get me wrong, I love my simplehuman slim trash bins. As far as trash bins go... these are hands down the best. Seriously, check out the reviews on Crate & Barrel. They really are great, especially if you are a recycler like me.


With the ginormous cabinets in our new island though, it just made too much sense to install pull-out trash bins. This would not only free up some floor space, but also keep the trash hidden. Again, I went with simplehuman. They make two similar size pull-out bins that fit our cabinet with room to spare. One holds two smaller bins that's perfect for separating recyclables. With a 20% Off BB&B coupon and a handy $50 housewarming gift card – I was good to go!



I even put little labels on my recycle bins that should help people figure out which bin to put their junk in. I hope.


Removing those trash bins really opens up that corner! Plus, I have the perfect spot to put my little step stool now. Oh happy days...

Friday, September 4, 2009

Sandra's Island Story

In between all my own fun house decorating projects, I managed to help my best friend Sandra with one of hers! Sandra has a beautiful kitchen, but it just isn't big enough for a table. We all know how everyone likes to hang out in the kitchen, so this was not her favorite feature about her new gorgeous home.


I love to scour Craigslist for inexpensive treasures and I happened upon this cutie for only $150 beans. I convinced her it would be the perfect size, provide some much needed seating and also some precious counter space.



It is hard to tell from the photos, but this cutie-patootie island needed a little lovin'. One afternoon I swooped in and helped my BFF. We sanded, sanded and sanded some more. Then, we painted the legs a fresh coat of ivory to match her cabinets. Last, we treated the top with butcher block oil. Oh, I can't forget about the stools. We spray-painted them black to coordinate with her lovely black granite countertops and to let those gorgeous turned legs on the island get all the attention they deserve.

KITCHEN BEFORE:


KITCHEN AFTER:


Isn't it the cutest? If it wasn't all wood and splintery, I could eat it up. Oh, and most important – Sandra couldn't be happier. Now her guests have the perfect place to rest their toosh while she does her thang in the kitchen. Mission accomplished!

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

One Year "House" Anniversary

Can you believe it has been a year since we started our house building adventure? In honor of this landmark, watch the fun little video of our house evolving over the past year.