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One Room Challenge: The Reveal After the Reveal

I have to start off this post by saying, "Thank you!"  There were so many kind and encouraging comments on the <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-week-6-iheart-living.html" target="_blank">living room reveal post</a>, and even over the course of the six week challenge.  I truly didn't think we would make it to reveal day, but it has been amazing having a space to use daily again.  I really appreciate everyone that took the time to check in on the progress, share ideas and help me through much of my indecision.<br /><br />Room reveal days are always full of fluff and happiness and are really just a pure celebration of all of the hard work that has lead up to that day.  They show the best sides of the space and highlight favorite moments and accomplishments.  Hopefully, we all know by now that no <i>lived in</i> room always has a throw blanket perfectly folded on the back of the sofa which is also filled with beautiful pillows.  That the room is not always sporting multiple vases of fresh flowers and neatly stacked books near a reading chair.  I believe that there are design choices that can be made that will keep a room/home looking lovely even with kicked up feet and popcorn bowls, but I also believe that room "reveals" can be equated to stepping out on a Saturday night.  You spend a few hours working on your hair and makeup and even put on your favorite cocktail dress, and although you don't wear that dress everyday, you sure enjoy it when you do.  You are putting your best dressed self forward.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJPVpjQvHvmNn6kh_ZZH-jIyI6WVCwxmJcMfnWyr90bceTNgqxZiiEJ-f1dPNwLgLzihAbiQFOhigAqQSDTOk2Ar_4ss_Q1MXRVpSncl-gGWb610ME7Hs_CpoOfpavkS9NK8ZpnuhyphenhyphenVlf1/s1600/IHeart_Living_Room_Tweaks_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJPVpjQvHvmNn6kh_ZZH-jIyI6WVCwxmJcMfnWyr90bceTNgqxZiiEJ-f1dPNwLgLzihAbiQFOhigAqQSDTOk2Ar_4ss_Q1MXRVpSncl-gGWb610ME7Hs_CpoOfpavkS9NK8ZpnuhyphenhyphenVlf1/s1600/IHeart_Living_Room_Tweaks_8.jpg" /></a></div><br />Knowing that, I thought I would take a moment and recap my thoughts on the entire living room makeover process, being that this was the very first time we have ever tackled a room of this size in such a short amount of time.  As much as I love focusing on the positives and happy moments (cough, reveal post, cough), I also think it is important to be real about all the rest.  Sharing both the highs and the lows, our successes and mistakes and even lessons learned.  That is why we blog about our home story and DIY adventures right?<br /><br />Linda, from <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/" target="_blank">Calling It Home</a>, has been hosting the One Room Challenge for a few years now, and I have always enjoyed following along as folks work hard to completely transform rooms in short periods of time.  There is definitely a shock factor seeing what can be done over the course of 5-6 weeks.  Taking the challenge is an amazing way to check off goals from your home to-do list, for lighting a much needed fire under your tush to get things done, and for learning about yourself and your design style.<br /><br />So when Linda initially contacted me to join in this round, I felt like I had just won the Final Showcase on <i>The Price is Right</i>!  And I hadn't even started playing yet!  It was such an honor and before I knew it, I was placed on a list with really amazing blog talent.  #pinchme<br /><br />When it came to picking a room, it didn't make sense to start an entirely new project when we already had something big happening (the kitchen/living room renovation).  And I am really, really good at being overly optimistic about projects and time frames.  <i>"It will be easy!"</i>  Those are always my famous last words paired with a knowing better eye roll from my husband.  "Our kitchen will be done in time for the Super Bowl", I said!  Enter eye roll here.<br /><br />But we somehow managed to pull off a living room from start to finish in a total of five full weeks.  Just after I photographed and posted our starting off photos for <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-week-1-iheart-living.html" target="_blank">Week 1</a>, we began installing flooring and trim.  We ordered furniture, window treatments and accessories.  We painted and shopped and built.  We stayed up late with photography lighting kits while we cut tile in the front yard at 11:30 p.m. (I am sure our neighbors were thrilled).  For five weeks, the majority of our spare time was spent on turning a completely blank slate into a livable and functional family space.<br /><br />At the end of those five weeks, we high-fived and celebrated all we were able to check off the list.  I even cracked open a bottle of wine and let out the biggest sigh of relief.  There were times when it was easy to get caught up with what we didn't get done or make happen, but I had to get over that real fast.  And although we called it a <i>Room Reveal</i> at the end of the challenge, we were not really done.  In fact, our home is never done.  As we live in our spaces, they evolve and are tweaked and modified to fit our needs.  That is my favorite part... those smaller room layering changes.<br /><br />To be completely honest, six weeks was not enough time to build a living room from scratch.  Maybe to revamp or refresh a living room, or for a designer with resources and experience, but for us?  Nope.<br /><br />I found that due to the tight deadline, I was left making impulsive and compromised decisions.  Things that I generally would wait on, had to be purchased <i>now</i>.  For me, this is costly and goes against my goal to <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/02/quick-tip-tuesday-shopping-with.html" target="_blank">shop with intention</a>.  I even selected a few pieces I wouldn't have necessarily picked if I would have had more time.  We didn't have time to revamp our credenza or build our coffee table or wallpaper down the stairs or even add in a few various elements we planned on initially.  Generally speaking, when working on our home there are no deadlines... we just make changes as we live here.<br /><br />When one is designing a space over time and not for a challenge, and the fabric they love is on back-order, they wait for it to come in.  When I found out at the beginning of the challenge my initial fabric choice couldn't be purchased, I was left ordering piles of swatches and ultimately spending more on alternative pillow covers than I would have liked.  I still picked colors and patterns that will be versatile down the road, but it was just one example of how I fought with the six week deadline.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6FfxZ4WOTHfplxKops1P1BznhRGcq6E6xN6XIqQ6LOL0RpFFsPv2NUk-utNaTi7dqGDnOa6IB8NKzNCH4ArGCBM4pAFf0nWDtCchyphenhyphenGQUtz2weDVXVpX9yYyP6AGG6Zw9PNsvcOmOd6VI/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6FfxZ4WOTHfplxKops1P1BznhRGcq6E6xN6XIqQ6LOL0RpFFsPv2NUk-utNaTi7dqGDnOa6IB8NKzNCH4ArGCBM4pAFf0nWDtCchyphenhyphenGQUtz2weDVXVpX9yYyP6AGG6Zw9PNsvcOmOd6VI/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_33.jpg" /></a></div><br /><br />The same story for our coffee table/ottoman situation.  We tried to use what we had and when those weren't working, we were left with limited time to find a new solution.  20+ stores later, and I was unable to track down a wooden coffee table or tufted ottoman that fit our space.  Everything either needed to be ordered in / delivered outside of our time frame or was just completely out of our budget altogether.  2:00 a.m. the night before photos were being taken, Bryan and I were pulling button tufts and stapling ottoman fabric.   And painting and re-painting chairs at all hours of the night.<br /><br />On the flip side, not being able to track down my dream mirror ended up being a fairy tale happy ending.  The time crunch really forced me to be resourceful and creative and we wouldn't trade <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/05/diy-tray-turned-mirror.html" target="_blank">our new DIY mirror</a> for any other.  Sometimes, a little push is a good thing!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_KMnmrbiSA0MyjmxiTKlusZUmfaENVxXfEB9fD8IYkvLNHpPfC3nWBT5Jhxu36glWqIOtesNFPpjWwJnBiTOKDsA78wOMFGUGxl5deVTXN5oOJs4Cdl8HOTJhbCN3S0YmRM1qeyVhcPe/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_KMnmrbiSA0MyjmxiTKlusZUmfaENVxXfEB9fD8IYkvLNHpPfC3nWBT5Jhxu36glWqIOtesNFPpjWwJnBiTOKDsA78wOMFGUGxl5deVTXN5oOJs4Cdl8HOTJhbCN3S0YmRM1qeyVhcPe/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_10.jpg" /></a></div><br />It was during those moments; forcing paint choices and driving around for hours sourcing objects, that I actually began resenting the room and the process.  Allowing myself to feel stressed and frustrated about furniture and accessories seemed so silly to me when ultimately it was just material objects.  I had a lot of internal struggles with this...<br /><br />The six week deadline also caused us to make a few backwards decisions.  We knew we would need a sofa and that they don't tend to show up at your doorstep overnight.  We ended up measuring for it so early on in the process, that we only had sub-floors and exterior cabinets installed.  We taped out our center island and started planning based off of a "three foot walk-around rule" that we had in our heads.  We came up with a size and began shopping around locally for options.  On the last day of a big sale, I ordered one that fit our wish list (rolled arms, pretty furniture legs, neutral color, no pillow back).  When the sofa arrived, I loved the shape, style and color and was relieved to have found something that fit all of our criteria.  We also had three adults give it a whirl and we were all able to fit and sit comfortably.  I felt content with our choice.<br /><br />After we began bringing pieces into our living room and kitchen, I then realized that we had more space than we initially planned for.  We really didn't need three feet on both sides of the sofa.  Honestly, so much space on either side seems to make the sofa look small in comparison to the rest of the space.  Especially once the rug and built-ins were added combined with the vaulted ceilings.  So although this Goldilocks and her three bears can fit on it just right, in the world of sofas, is bigger always better?   <br /><br />Trying to measure for a sofa when we had absolutely nothing to base off of and no other furniture or built-ins in place, was not the best strategy.  In fact, we probably should have done it last.<br /><br />Finally, I have learned over my years of blogging, that projects should not be rushed for the sake of content.  In 90% of the cases that I have forced content, I ended up tweaking or changing things all together after I posted.  I guess this challenge goes against that thought process, and I should have realized that right from the start.  As weeks went by, I found myself uncomfortable sharing posts and room shots before I was ready because things were not panning out, making sense or coming together the way I had envisioned.  Those insecurities paired with the brilliant and creative community I was sharing with and receiving feedback from, complicated my thought process even more.  If anything, I learned that I really appreciate taking the time to think things through, work at a slow pace, and post when we are ready to share.  I go through creative slumps and hit walls all of the time, but there was no time for that during the challenge.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiRBj4y-uqkFWgWdfy2PTN0ACFRx3qCPL89qdPpj4HCco5sTFwLrkR_7mD8C8eOkFEiG3FtQji4-6FtIYK1JI7BOqWgspH9g5lmW71Yh_qsi1ylCIjat04OoVu0vOnDqHeN-QoFtYELcc4/s1600/IHeart_Living_Room_Tweaks_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiRBj4y-uqkFWgWdfy2PTN0ACFRx3qCPL89qdPpj4HCco5sTFwLrkR_7mD8C8eOkFEiG3FtQji4-6FtIYK1JI7BOqWgspH9g5lmW71Yh_qsi1ylCIjat04OoVu0vOnDqHeN-QoFtYELcc4/s1600/IHeart_Living_Room_Tweaks_7.jpg" /></a></div><br />Those creative roadblocks paired with some timing issues with the fireplace installation ultimately meant that the room was "thrown" together at the last minute.  The paint on the built-in was final coated on the Saturday before pictures were shot on Monday.  Once they were dry enough, I had a matter of a few hours to style shelves and the entire room before fighting light for photos.  It felt like one of those down to the wire TV design challenges!  We literally came down to the final hours to get this space done in time, and as you can imagine, not everything stayed where it landed that day.  The flowers have withered, pillows and blankets are tossed in a nearby basket and books I read with the boys each night are piled right where they belong.  Basically, I took my Saturday night makeup off and now we are living with a much more toned down version of the room.  My goal is to let those continuous tweaks and changes happen as we use the space day after day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj26-15LyCsYtFryfrAzHzZ8jkuaHukZBZnBkcVHzOGn3ItOtLdw2xwkL3YPfA2xLyFbHtElwC2YBhgkALYl5JRHDvW6gSgmXhh-Q0PfdNcymnVR2CGsb5TO71W6-thcsRYWmuGxBd8jdLg/s1600/IHeart_Living_Room_Tweaks_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj26-15LyCsYtFryfrAzHzZ8jkuaHukZBZnBkcVHzOGn3ItOtLdw2xwkL3YPfA2xLyFbHtElwC2YBhgkALYl5JRHDvW6gSgmXhh-Q0PfdNcymnVR2CGsb5TO71W6-thcsRYWmuGxBd8jdLg/s1600/IHeart_Living_Room_Tweaks_1.jpg" /></a></div><br />Although we pushed ourselves and stumbled and lived and learned, I have zero regrets for joining in on the challenge and taking on our living room.  After living without <i>any</i> space for over four months, the fact we can actually use it on a daily basis again is such a gift.  I learned so much about myself and our home during this process, and have endless respect for designers who can flawlessly transform a space from scratch in such a short amount of time.  I am always up for a good challenge, and may even play along again someday, just on a much smaller scale.  We have never lived in an open concept home before, so to take on a project in a space that I am not familiar with utilizing, probably wasn't the best fit.  But it was an eye opening experience and I am happy to share things we learned from it along the way.<br /><br />This post may feel a bit opposite of the sunshine I spread around here, but we really are so in love with the new space we created and are extremely grateful for how far it has come.  We only have minor adjustments to make, and for rushing a project, I say that is a giant win!   <br /><br />Oh!  And last thought.  Always steam and iron fabric <i>before</i> your project.  We hung the curtains first and after steaming them, they started to slightly puddle on the floor.  So now they need to be re-hung.  Ditto for the ottoman.  We pulled it so tight day one when upholstering it, and now it has become loose from being sat on and played on... totally should have ironed it first.  Oops!  Nothing lost, just rookie mistakes.<br /><br />Now, enough living room chat for awhile... Next week we are back to kitchen updates!

One Room Challenge: The Reveal After the Reveal

I have to start off this post by saying, "Thank you!" There were so many kind and encouraging comments on the living room reveal ...

11:30 AM

DIY Fireplace Built-In Tutorial

Today I am giving a warm welcome to Monday.  We took the weekend to focus on family fun activities and hosting some friends and family.  It felt really good to take a break from projects and the renovation, Bryan and I both needed a bit of a breather.<br /><br />It is still a giant post day!  I have finally compiled all of our photos and notes to share our fireplace built-in project, which we revealed <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-week-6-iheart-living.html" target="_blank">here</a>.  We started purchasing the supplies on a Friday evening and about a week and a half later, we were tossing items onto the bookshelves for final photos.  A total of ten days in the making, this wasn't an overnight project, but it is one we are so incredibly happy with.  Given the number of photos and steps, I probably should have broken this into a couple of posts, but it always creates confusion down the road so I am piling all of it in a single place today.  Who's ready?!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2wOgni_p_jGArk-7ozdQmXj4pvLGM9ZbRe0dQuQlnZ_1dgR1fklGbHxNlf1u8F0-F6zKSpEDH85u7mPjwnL4CLFhoZm6qZT4dZSEuPkOTuC05-l2yTOeuWDsUfCrP5e7w0FW-2NTvjnJ/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2wOgni_p_jGArk-7ozdQmXj4pvLGM9ZbRe0dQuQlnZ_1dgR1fklGbHxNlf1u8F0-F6zKSpEDH85u7mPjwnL4CLFhoZm6qZT4dZSEuPkOTuC05-l2yTOeuWDsUfCrP5e7w0FW-2NTvjnJ/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_1.jpg" /></a></div><br />Things have already changed a bit in the living room since the reveal, however, I will share more about that in an upcoming post.  Nothing major, just little tweaks as we live with things.  But now that you have seen the finished fireplace project, let's start back at the beginning.<br /><br />A fireplace has been on our wishlist for many years, and as an effort to keep this our "forever" home, we decided it was now or never.  Of course, we love how they look, but more importantly, it will be a nice source of heat for over half of the year in our cold weathered climate.  And is there anything better than curling up near a fireplace with a good book or magazine?  I have already done this multiple times and I have to say, it is fabulous!  Truly a home dream come true for us.<br /><br />As we began visiting local fireplace companies to get the scoop and research our options, we also started gathering ideas and coming up with a design for the built-ins.  The following items were on the built-in wish list:<br /><br /><ul><li>Wall mounted television to allow us to view it while cooking at the island in the kitchen, while sitting at the dining table and of course, while relaxing in the living area.  </li><li>A combination of open and concealed storage.</li><li>Hidden component cords.</li><li>A design that would mimic the style of the cabinets in the kitchen to marry the two spaces.</li><li>Narrow enough to reduce the amount of lost floor space.</li><li>Salvage the <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2014/05/built-in-bookcase-beautiful-update.html" target="_blank">DIY'd glass doors we created last year. </a></li></ul><br />Based on those bullets, I whipped up a design that fit all of our wishes and presented it to Bryan.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsy5-eam_dWGj3R-vKACOy_jH8ILxZVmYzMZUtvOK-u1R2mJCnarRCsgCyDMBJguIOeW2FNTZgnu2_XFXV9GuRsrcf9s5KsEA4AaPAOxIbVz0dTkU854YnMPcEFm4aCNi4ARwyApCyE5Wl/s1600/FirePlaceDiagram.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsy5-eam_dWGj3R-vKACOy_jH8ILxZVmYzMZUtvOK-u1R2mJCnarRCsgCyDMBJguIOeW2FNTZgnu2_XFXV9GuRsrcf9s5KsEA4AaPAOxIbVz0dTkU854YnMPcEFm4aCNi4ARwyApCyE5Wl/s1600/FirePlaceDiagram.png" /></a></div><br />Given the overall size of the built-in, we knew it would have to start in the corner of the room, vs. being centered and leaving negative space in the corner.  After we measured out the existing mirrored cabinets as well as the fireplace insert, we came up with the remaining measurements for the surround and shelving.  In total, the built-in ended up at 134" wide x 92"/96" tall x 16 1/2" deep.<br /><br />Supplies used for this project:<br /><ul><li>2x4's</li><li>2'x6's</li><li>1x4x8 poplar boards </li><li>3/4" 4x8 birch plywood</li><li>1/4" 4x8 birch plywood</li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/American-Wood-Moulding-WM268-1-4-in-x-1-1-4-in-Pine-Lattice-Moulding-268-LF/100096303" target="_blank">Lattice Moulding</a></li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Finished-Elegance-WM49-7-16-in-x-3-5-8-in-MDF-Crown-Moulding-10001682/202998574?N=5yc1vZara1Z1z135qv" target="_blank">Crown moulding</a></li><li>Wood screws</li><li>Brad nails/nailer</li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Unbranded-13-16-in-x-25-ft-Birch-Edge-Tape-657608/202843396" target="_blank">Iron-on edging </a></li><li><a href="http://www.americanhearth.com/ah/index.php?view=madison-direct-vent-fireplaces" target="_blank">Fireplace insert - American Hearth DVD32 Series</a></li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/James-Hardie-HardieBacker-3-ft-x-5-ft-x-1-2-in-Cement-Backerboard-220023/100170507" target="_blank">1/2" Backer board</a></li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Backer-On-10-x-1-5-8-in-Zinc-Plated-Steel-Flat-Head-Square-Cement-Board-Screws-150-Pack-23410/100174717" target="_blank">Backer board screws</a></li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Custom-Building-Products-AcrylPro-3-1-2-gal-Ceramic-Tile-Adhesive-ARL40003/100112798" target="_blank">Tile adhesive</a></li><li>Tile cutter - borrowed </li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/HDX-3-16-in-x-5-32-in-V-Notch-Economy-Trowel-10115X/203713857" target="_blank">Trowel</a></li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/MS-International-Mystic-Cloud-Arched-Herringbone-12-in-x-12-in-x-10-mm-Honed-Marble-Mesh-Mounted-Mosaic-Wall-Tile-ARCH-MC-HBH/205337446" target="_blank">Tile</a></li><li>PVC pipe</li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/CE-TECH-Full-Motion-Wall-Mount-for-26-in-90-in-Flat-Panel-TVs-31903/205597130" target="_blank">Television mount </a></li><li>Painter's caulk</li><li>Primer</li><li>Paint</li><li>Rollers, brushes, trays</li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Prime-Line-25-lb-5-mm-Nickel-Plated-Steel-Shelf-Support-Pegs-8-Pack-U-10166/100586373" target="_blank">Shelving pegs</a></li></ul><br />Because we wanted the fireplace mantle to be embellished with decorative moulding, the moulding needed a solid surface to return to on either side.  That surface would be the sides of each bookcase, and we ultimately landed on a 3 1/2" wide frame for the bookcase walls (using the poplar 1x4's on the bookcase faces).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVuTkIJ7nttXDEazvBL11CdauUWkwLh3lwCdTWl7tM85JldJ56A63sYBqhzvBBlgoszAXI0DOJ6xSKMEYbUpwGRS1siU2F8qUi9n55EOHrbyROyutzh8jctg5XhTTzklphOOKKmtSqWlPL/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVuTkIJ7nttXDEazvBL11CdauUWkwLh3lwCdTWl7tM85JldJ56A63sYBqhzvBBlgoszAXI0DOJ6xSKMEYbUpwGRS1siU2F8qUi9n55EOHrbyROyutzh8jctg5XhTTzklphOOKKmtSqWlPL/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_51.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />We began by using 2x4's and the 3/4" birch plywood to create a box to surround our previous mirrored glass bookcases.  We pre-measured our components with their cords attached, and determined we needed shelves that were at least 16" deep to hold the electronics.  Once the exterior of the box was built, we added a 1/4" birch plywood backing.  Wood screws were used for building the 2x4 frame while the brad nailer was used to affix the plywood sides and backing.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzn5mg0iqpCfTZL-7PQ3iFj_6yyxXQ6tDeIGU5fn1wd0xRKqVjtqV1FcinG5V18uBfw3azSc1PpSNyy-Cma2i7xvuUzpY0dvIQEjj3cWDsEjdayUk5tJmvNk3x8la9bpIWFs5cVKXsfNP7/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzn5mg0iqpCfTZL-7PQ3iFj_6yyxXQ6tDeIGU5fn1wd0xRKqVjtqV1FcinG5V18uBfw3azSc1PpSNyy-Cma2i7xvuUzpY0dvIQEjj3cWDsEjdayUk5tJmvNk3x8la9bpIWFs5cVKXsfNP7/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_3.jpg" /></a></div><br />We had a few shelving options, but I preferred something that offered flexibility vs. affixed permanent shelves.  We simply used pegboard to create a template to drill shelving peg holes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJHsPD05hCIm5qkIVhd33_xvnb8rRqZhPn6bXQIC4u1mUHFPY7vI1or4UuFCkhHl_NoYv6uhuZ1PSfxY4GjoMGvGUkuS2H2a88hHDxzIiEP11x5ZPsmFnoUtcOQtwYrlXI9P_LR517EfQ/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJHsPD05hCIm5qkIVhd33_xvnb8rRqZhPn6bXQIC4u1mUHFPY7vI1or4UuFCkhHl_NoYv6uhuZ1PSfxY4GjoMGvGUkuS2H2a88hHDxzIiEP11x5ZPsmFnoUtcOQtwYrlXI9P_LR517EfQ/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_52.jpg" /></a></div><br />We were able to time the building of this unit with our electrician, and he was on-site running the wires for the outlets, fireplace and television as we constructed the unit.  He was able to have our outlets moved to provide electrical for lighting and electronics in our bookcases.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZdMJKwFL6g-LbjaKtayk5mq2s009ROu_ngSIjInvi9mzb69u0KRB3YOtC6aWQD5FVe0TAU2SPe1_HgSbOPsT0w587D9k-M5Gfp5klJW7qp1WiIr182pn8SqGjmnsIK6Agl9oM5fqNOWq/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZdMJKwFL6g-LbjaKtayk5mq2s009ROu_ngSIjInvi9mzb69u0KRB3YOtC6aWQD5FVe0TAU2SPe1_HgSbOPsT0w587D9k-M5Gfp5klJW7qp1WiIr182pn8SqGjmnsIK6Agl9oM5fqNOWq/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_5.jpg" /></a></div><br />The beautiful bookcase frame was finished and we held our breath as we inserted the previous glass-doored unit.  Wahoo, it fit like a glove!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguyn0Csz_j66SQJRPypRiF7p4wjWIU9VUEmUlQ1lYRZ9OhLj5iRnRIuQtE3wrY2PsocrXWvSHQGnh5t0yf6TA8vEBS4-kELmoWvh9b7A0Y8tzqLJVUuuyp6S3K2xz_x3m4s5fkz3v1Haak/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguyn0Csz_j66SQJRPypRiF7p4wjWIU9VUEmUlQ1lYRZ9OhLj5iRnRIuQtE3wrY2PsocrXWvSHQGnh5t0yf6TA8vEBS4-kELmoWvh9b7A0Y8tzqLJVUuuyp6S3K2xz_x3m4s5fkz3v1Haak/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_6.jpg" /></a></div><br />Once the first bookcase was built, we used the measurements provided to us by the fireplace company to construct the fireplace surround from more 2x4's.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBjHCqLws0dTvTDLuMSuhUk1wNaah5pIhHv23BTTkRRusHWI3wIMPodzCswsf-aYd1I3fPs5SdPuLU9MePiqaZTMKPPllvXMlSX8Hu-MhOWO21HxpxtS9AWEJoeHFPi3u4Vht5NrmyYhUy/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBjHCqLws0dTvTDLuMSuhUk1wNaah5pIhHv23BTTkRRusHWI3wIMPodzCswsf-aYd1I3fPs5SdPuLU9MePiqaZTMKPPllvXMlSX8Hu-MhOWO21HxpxtS9AWEJoeHFPi3u4Vht5NrmyYhUy/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_8.jpg" /></a></div><br />Speaking of fireplace, prior to ordering, we asked 1,265 questions.  Here are some questions we asked that we found extremely helpful come build day:<br /><ul><li>Can the fireplace be set on flooring and if so, what types are OK? <i>(The answer for our model was yes, it could be placed directly on our laminate floors)</i></li><li>What are the model's surround requirements? <i>(Tile recommended)</i></li><li>What are the model's overall installation dimensions? <i>(We were provided the installation specs by the fireplace company)</i></li><li>How/where does the fireplace vent? <i>(The fireplace was vented directly out to our garage and then piped up and out through the roof, which prevented the need to have the piping run directly up the wall behind the television inside of our home)</i></li><li>What type of clearance is recommended for a television above? <i>(Recommended to<span id="bc_0_37b+seedVtfsD" kind="d"> add a minimum of a 2" lip/mantle past the face of the fireplace to displace the heat.)</span></i></li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijiDXfwHWj_rerOpW3JnXwQO7LG1FbhcjOAzWjzhuZfBz33J1AQsPj-r5AfuqZU7YRu1jfN6LZ5ojrp35poLPFfNJUzd06XeJ1b_2-W7v1yOR0R9N9iW5N86UxtSUdwRtJTdpneAj9O3Q/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijiDXfwHWj_rerOpW3JnXwQO7LG1FbhcjOAzWjzhuZfBz33J1AQsPj-r5AfuqZU7YRu1jfN6LZ5ojrp35poLPFfNJUzd06XeJ1b_2-W7v1yOR0R9N9iW5N86UxtSUdwRtJTdpneAj9O3Q/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_53.jpg" /></a></div><br />As I mentioned, I really didn't want to see component cords.  I find them to be visually distracting and was ultimately trying to achieve a nice and clean look.  Not wanting to do anything permanent that we wouldn't be able to access once everything was built-in, Bryan came up with the solution to add a PVC tunnel to run all of the cords between the television and components.  That way, should we swap out a DVD player or need to replace our Dish receiver, we can do so without any difficulties.  Electrical, Internet and cable was run by our electrician to a location behind the television and eventually boxed into the built-in, while the PVC pipe was installed to run between the TV and side bookcase cabinet.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6TECPn4tTY36VFB_SNCr3JWnrcVePWfqaetVXDJeV4dynNbpapBIcybpWQfJ8m8tbh4wUG5wEalm2orfrKxnpNNzGGyxvZwo48LQWzam0S-UeSr3xlsPRktgmHoWHfNuijpDCF_cSkPQL/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6TECPn4tTY36VFB_SNCr3JWnrcVePWfqaetVXDJeV4dynNbpapBIcybpWQfJ8m8tbh4wUG5wEalm2orfrKxnpNNzGGyxvZwo48LQWzam0S-UeSr3xlsPRktgmHoWHfNuijpDCF_cSkPQL/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_12.jpg" /></a></div><br />And this is where we were at the end of our first weekend of building.  We needed to have our building inspector check on the electrical and gas updates Monday morning, prior to the fireplace insert installation (which was also scheduled on Monday).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrQLppOkeFP2LC0SXBby6kcHQoaOo7lkT9J8sCAiPKvlzgzrYg0hGFgSsXvr2J9eSlsfrCiJmcsv4ssz-PQblMuX1g1zmbbs6qUeEgzwEEhyAeyTBgHqkYRmI_zFMrT4Q4uEF1nscJQFfa/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrQLppOkeFP2LC0SXBby6kcHQoaOo7lkT9J8sCAiPKvlzgzrYg0hGFgSsXvr2J9eSlsfrCiJmcsv4ssz-PQblMuX1g1zmbbs6qUeEgzwEEhyAeyTBgHqkYRmI_zFMrT4Q4uEF1nscJQFfa/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_17.jpg" /></a></div><br />We didn't install the fireplace, we hired that part out (we went with <a href="http://www.comfortbydesign.net/" target="_blank">Comfort By Design</a> for this).  Once again, we sighed with relief when everything fit like a glove.  Above, you can also see how the television boxes were placed and everything was concealed by another piece of the 3/4" birch plywood.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZ4bxVvap_z1Ra9qbu1JTewDA9VDZrKwBtNOrr2Uj2HjYHmDtjjef42lyB9nkLs-6g_roKA746zkPXpHqKjczPnnm2U0r3sLCwM6tN0GspT7wblZlrwGjUZCvcE6lgTVyCL4jOGqS4HyF/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZ4bxVvap_z1Ra9qbu1JTewDA9VDZrKwBtNOrr2Uj2HjYHmDtjjef42lyB9nkLs-6g_roKA746zkPXpHqKjczPnnm2U0r3sLCwM6tN0GspT7wblZlrwGjUZCvcE6lgTVyCL4jOGqS4HyF/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_14.jpg" /></a></div><br />For the crown moulding, we used IKEA moulding on the outer cabinets and primed moulding from Home Depot for the center unit.  The outer bookcases were built to the exact height as the cabinets in the kitchen, which will also be moulded with the IKEA trim.  This was one of the ways we began creating cohesion between the kitchen and living spaces.<br /><br />We also added small stripes of trim to the faces of the 3/4" plywood shelves.  Wood glue and brad nailer for the win.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKXyEXMlqmctqLRJYxlmj1Nbx0_Cym42ti3U3f-w53a1hAEjQVzV75K7FEJ3wkRYinb7yHTbRWqrmVv7ZcJCjzmqoPRCS-Oof417MCEHw-DOcTRzP4RCmTLduRd6_2K2HH7MFcl9FhCYKF/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKXyEXMlqmctqLRJYxlmj1Nbx0_Cym42ti3U3f-w53a1hAEjQVzV75K7FEJ3wkRYinb7yHTbRWqrmVv7ZcJCjzmqoPRCS-Oof417MCEHw-DOcTRzP4RCmTLduRd6_2K2HH7MFcl9FhCYKF/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_54.jpg" /></a></div><br />Now that the fireplace was installed and the moulding, shelves and built-in were complete, we were able to start tiling the fireplace surround.<br /><br />To prep the fireplace for tile, we purchased cement backer board.  The board cut like drywall, scored with a utility knife.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsmFurT00JSmfAHwUrSisZ2Z0I-D-B5bhKuHt-aihMzYYUu6t68XSIuO76Ic0Wqb3LpRZbf2d88LMz-B-WHfVXEPjCnLshCBh-XO-ninOZ2OcBXd5GobyTeHHlvGyRFY3co2VVBmEwSR_X/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsmFurT00JSmfAHwUrSisZ2Z0I-D-B5bhKuHt-aihMzYYUu6t68XSIuO76Ic0Wqb3LpRZbf2d88LMz-B-WHfVXEPjCnLshCBh-XO-ninOZ2OcBXd5GobyTeHHlvGyRFY3co2VVBmEwSR_X/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_19.jpg" /></a></div><br />To affix the boards to the 2x4 framing, we used special backer board screws.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOuZxls6sGcgWBgjn6Tz8ny7wGPAh6bV9liKjOsTwUERF51Kq8l67CSpZMsM2hf0V4bH7JU7PMfHB6EOYhLdlkzAPj6m7S3GVtx0PjUFyKuFPS6rdRdo3jFdHrB9S9Efa7Ec5QUEkkg5M/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOuZxls6sGcgWBgjn6Tz8ny7wGPAh6bV9liKjOsTwUERF51Kq8l67CSpZMsM2hf0V4bH7JU7PMfHB6EOYhLdlkzAPj6m7S3GVtx0PjUFyKuFPS6rdRdo3jFdHrB9S9Efa7Ec5QUEkkg5M/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_55.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGn94be6PgnSzA2u-BBo0QeJYR6NKZjD_95rgVnBLz1OdN2w2IyGj4lvoHnRNH8haU90dDn8jvoFDEUicVRGgG-gvmwYyYUGz-izZskN8CNuXdRqZ6Q3DZwOmSaLIO3hZLAHzKy8JGiIlU/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGn94be6PgnSzA2u-BBo0QeJYR6NKZjD_95rgVnBLz1OdN2w2IyGj4lvoHnRNH8haU90dDn8jvoFDEUicVRGgG-gvmwYyYUGz-izZskN8CNuXdRqZ6Q3DZwOmSaLIO3hZLAHzKy8JGiIlU/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_23.jpg" /></a></div><br />I originally had selected a herringbone marble from The Tile Shop, but when we were walking the aisles at Home Depot, I spotted a herringbone tile like nothing I had seen before.  It offered a basketweave-like texture, which I loved because it almost looked more like a stone than a polished marble.  We were able to borrow a friend's tile saw, and it cut like butta!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLqE1WknZ1covDVIaJW5e-ywUasxXkJTJVLh-z9qb5nummQIYBlLpjk7_um8W4OvTv4hT0HMJOiD0ghEJrjdDm0EfpQevlmuQdGwGW92xV34U7LYRZ3pcPD8R13qvHuzopKWpCxhQXmmsR/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLqE1WknZ1covDVIaJW5e-ywUasxXkJTJVLh-z9qb5nummQIYBlLpjk7_um8W4OvTv4hT0HMJOiD0ghEJrjdDm0EfpQevlmuQdGwGW92xV34U7LYRZ3pcPD8R13qvHuzopKWpCxhQXmmsR/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_20.jpg" /></a></div><br />We drew out a template of the fireplace on a board to utilize while measuring and cutting each sheet of the tile.  This allowed us to be sure that everything was going to line up and install without issues once we began spreading the adhesive.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5TOV6mhKECtqe_7gAU7bEYzoi-llOinAvggNwNmXRTAUpM2OfVghI3f-H-_CgvVsQaf64k6xx4yXTQCR6Cqk4lJ3NfZs1s3Iq9Zn-Q-Jfy61aLzhGCCbo-_aWjjLO_oCg3o9kam68rlax/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5TOV6mhKECtqe_7gAU7bEYzoi-llOinAvggNwNmXRTAUpM2OfVghI3f-H-_CgvVsQaf64k6xx4yXTQCR6Cqk4lJ3NfZs1s3Iq9Zn-Q-Jfy61aLzhGCCbo-_aWjjLO_oCg3o9kam68rlax/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_24.jpg" /></a></div><br />To affix the tile, we went with a tile adhesive which we spread on the backer board with a fine tooth trowel.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MsYo5S5cHdhKUjkouqP-XV81_cPzGJkx6yoInlnQvdeksKehDjUiRle_N2gLh4W_7hqsqCiiJHwRPWrhK8Haf4YNUpXF4CoDcoDZBEKWp76NvIrfXwat9dhr5aZgTjZVKgXAGOpa7ar6/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MsYo5S5cHdhKUjkouqP-XV81_cPzGJkx6yoInlnQvdeksKehDjUiRle_N2gLh4W_7hqsqCiiJHwRPWrhK8Haf4YNUpXF4CoDcoDZBEKWp76NvIrfXwat9dhr5aZgTjZVKgXAGOpa7ar6/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_56.jpg" /></a></div><br />We followed the directions on the container and worked our way around the fireplace accordingly.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEl_aKcGIgHinMkAgGHOroM4vFD6qPotHruAH5DAxj82oINcCgJK3PshH0lBvLrcnpNYIjqQ51FA3oQU9-RWWpbkCdBdzfzsU9COFHt3ES2wHi5dBFOna5ikZyV7xU28wwa3ggCugTMubZ/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEl_aKcGIgHinMkAgGHOroM4vFD6qPotHruAH5DAxj82oINcCgJK3PshH0lBvLrcnpNYIjqQ51FA3oQU9-RWWpbkCdBdzfzsU9COFHt3ES2wHi5dBFOna5ikZyV7xU28wwa3ggCugTMubZ/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_28.jpg" /></a></div><br />After all of the tile is set, we recommend holding it in place with painter's tape or masking tape to prevent any shifting while it dries.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEkVEkggKrnb1uUQx1oP9CIF6Q9EttDXNFq_lWcpOlz5CqlcnlKIHAuOfr2dlTTP3rSVv1HspHhfyFhvqwf1KXHjknobjeTI35KN5hXLGs38DlmifmUvWE7r64j3FBqlXLq1EQX8igejw1/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEkVEkggKrnb1uUQx1oP9CIF6Q9EttDXNFq_lWcpOlz5CqlcnlKIHAuOfr2dlTTP3rSVv1HspHhfyFhvqwf1KXHjknobjeTI35KN5hXLGs38DlmifmUvWE7r64j3FBqlXLq1EQX8igejw1/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_29.jpg" /></a></div><br />For now, we have not grouted this tile because it is so tightly woven and the texture would make it nearly impossible.  In fact, Home Depot told us not to use grout, however, we are still looking into that because we have never not grouted a tile project before (and we can add grout at any point in time).  Once we decide, we will also add a sealer to the tile as well.<br /><br />After the tile was set and cured, we began constructing the mantle.  The mantle was another piece of the 3/4" plywood paired with the decorative crown moulding.  We also finished adding 3/4" boards to the perimeter of the tile.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrS1roUK77-pgirusRmx9JvZay1WB0k4bOcMOkVv58gFNwLAewqK8Rm5tMISpH_1-B4E3BsPVWbjp68QL61lH3z3aQLisMJFWviLy5pa8INZrt5dAfSMxHH8K86XjM2jvvSOqFCLGfnV5/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrS1roUK77-pgirusRmx9JvZay1WB0k4bOcMOkVv58gFNwLAewqK8Rm5tMISpH_1-B4E3BsPVWbjp68QL61lH3z3aQLisMJFWviLy5pa8INZrt5dAfSMxHH8K86XjM2jvvSOqFCLGfnV5/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_31.jpg" /></a></div><br />The lattice strips were cut and affixed to the surround and upper TV portion to add a decorative embellishment (based on my diagram above - I forgot to photograph this simple step).<br /><br />We also added some iron-on edging to the cut edge of the mantle as well as the top moulded cap, and proceeded to fill in every last nail hole and gap with painter's caulk for a seamless look.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7D6eMKnWsW8Llm4HfeRz8IIo7n0VHy_-z3R469xHgWD3F48pSCkm-OV-mTV2F8u9iEeZKDODaDFf4pcmbtYhOOq0xRBU6OCN8qexH31RNBtuFqqGUAAviyP8k2MR3mDV-nReZvHodtZ7/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7D6eMKnWsW8Llm4HfeRz8IIo7n0VHy_-z3R469xHgWD3F48pSCkm-OV-mTV2F8u9iEeZKDODaDFf4pcmbtYhOOq0xRBU6OCN8qexH31RNBtuFqqGUAAviyP8k2MR3mDV-nReZvHodtZ7/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_32.jpg" /></a></div><br />When it came time to paint, I used <a href="https://www.rustoleum.com/product-catalog/consumer-brands/zinsser/primer-sealers/smart-prime/" target="_blank">Zinsser Smart Prime</a> paired with Benjamin Moore Advanced Paint in Simply White Satin.  I was really happy with the quality and finish of both.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfZd9gABOovdWQ6YQs-JBbGfnu5sFhftC9i4pz-s067HdlJ5o6YFWsOFJyfub7ry3oAp2HMCG6hVOWiXExDa5lJd3etCGBg2Y2HwKEWKZqpTpWlOzi88OWuyReVfcINHzRgFmTRiIPb8G/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfZd9gABOovdWQ6YQs-JBbGfnu5sFhftC9i4pz-s067HdlJ5o6YFWsOFJyfub7ry3oAp2HMCG6hVOWiXExDa5lJd3etCGBg2Y2HwKEWKZqpTpWlOzi88OWuyReVfcINHzRgFmTRiIPb8G/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_49.jpg" /></a></div><br />I used a microfiber roller on all of the flat surfaces, and <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Wooster-Shortcut-2-in-Nylon-Polyester-Angle-Sash-Brush-0Q32110020/100357411" target="_blank">my favorite brush</a> for all of the cracks and corners.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVd8ZEqkEthKO3rB-nKtlOiR2rRt9viKEfBwwh5AfpugMMw7ZBW2tdD63pYaL63Nc3CX1-bh10021-OEcqUumPXKQBIxm8iBIIT1BDNamAlKscZ28XusgpM5uwhiCNJ_8JC4nypNJi-Md1/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVd8ZEqkEthKO3rB-nKtlOiR2rRt9viKEfBwwh5AfpugMMw7ZBW2tdD63pYaL63Nc3CX1-bh10021-OEcqUumPXKQBIxm8iBIIT1BDNamAlKscZ28XusgpM5uwhiCNJ_8JC4nypNJi-Md1/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_33.jpg" /></a></div><br />One coat of primer and two coats later, it was already looking good!  The paint really cleaned up the entire build and made it feel like one meant-to-be unit.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPc9CV5UEM6FBqiXiUcqEjocwhZhkPBIPwdEnxUrXsw9aKJ7WB2ALENnE88uIS_icROPTl3luQma0QFwI9LKALiEOrgSkhHWEZwucqm9mDCJ3c2cdy8Eut-QG3RTIY4mUNf23AXXiQk3Q/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPc9CV5UEM6FBqiXiUcqEjocwhZhkPBIPwdEnxUrXsw9aKJ7WB2ALENnE88uIS_icROPTl3luQma0QFwI9LKALiEOrgSkhHWEZwucqm9mDCJ3c2cdy8Eut-QG3RTIY4mUNf23AXXiQk3Q/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_34.jpg" /></a></div><br />I ended up doing one more coat before pulling the tape and celebrating!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Ef0BwdYEwlfMgw4JP0k6be6YHHYUH3JB6pC8p7gqi2OnNWuqtq9s1POgE1sUxwBIw6yWOqHN1Rc7qpzL17CHc2ofDlKHvMXA4_YiE_WyWtVzkMbffw2BSlQ2smxgkYObzepgKDoRinfe/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Ef0BwdYEwlfMgw4JP0k6be6YHHYUH3JB6pC8p7gqi2OnNWuqtq9s1POgE1sUxwBIw6yWOqHN1Rc7qpzL17CHc2ofDlKHvMXA4_YiE_WyWtVzkMbffw2BSlQ2smxgkYObzepgKDoRinfe/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_45.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUtlSz2esaWp9aoCJZEY1FqpNvlrej4pmLSHLVhjOMv1q_NTPTJDOXEn0Tvn_h6EY8rBaqA4bsMjv3l-bboTY9sF5nls55z0l9gx5tQeG8Gx0rvrhZzissM7tAsJjOLIF_O-S7YBVf8Ry/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUtlSz2esaWp9aoCJZEY1FqpNvlrej4pmLSHLVhjOMv1q_NTPTJDOXEn0Tvn_h6EY8rBaqA4bsMjv3l-bboTY9sF5nls55z0l9gx5tQeG8Gx0rvrhZzissM7tAsJjOLIF_O-S7YBVf8Ry/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_48.jpg" /></a></div><br />The TV mount offers both tilt and swivel features, allowing us to pull it out and face it wherever we would like.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEyX8elkBJSpRYjFV5T_tVvRwJ6D1COh_nYSpSqFeJ9Hl633l9_2SLBxsfncyOxC54BJl10B2q7eyddS4akj1fLz7Nei6KcEkeKdrUTR24O7l47Fpf6QsHBzSDW99jLts51Giz-blRt8sF/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEyX8elkBJSpRYjFV5T_tVvRwJ6D1COh_nYSpSqFeJ9Hl633l9_2SLBxsfncyOxC54BJl10B2q7eyddS4akj1fLz7Nei6KcEkeKdrUTR24O7l47Fpf6QsHBzSDW99jLts51Giz-blRt8sF/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_57.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3YZz3ibr54CUG-aVc4nY8c7o_OnzZdLYyl-z_6xk3yVYTAKx4WFsxVoxOJzhyefh5WC0fi5TOCdNAb6uio7MHwhhhZ9CYLKqn9LmmKc1asJPQU0TBx3NHjtBWeiErM-zsY2EsoveFF6m/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3YZz3ibr54CUG-aVc4nY8c7o_OnzZdLYyl-z_6xk3yVYTAKx4WFsxVoxOJzhyefh5WC0fi5TOCdNAb6uio7MHwhhhZ9CYLKqn9LmmKc1asJPQU0TBx3NHjtBWeiErM-zsY2EsoveFF6m/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_44.jpg" /></a></div><br />We started off with a variety of shelving pegs that we found in our tool box, however, I ended up purchasing some smaller pegs that were less visually distracting.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbRL3lYamIUgyqE0Nk9LRljLIamr4oHfoP3vRvjxI3TUC-rM2tsoJU5yORjTrMEJNVv1Cva4UtDGD-VpYUgXz_rVg6ltLOu-tLs_cQxI4Mq1O8xLgVVp3Bkk9zxBG0feai-j0EIyCRxah/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbRL3lYamIUgyqE0Nk9LRljLIamr4oHfoP3vRvjxI3TUC-rM2tsoJU5yORjTrMEJNVv1Cva4UtDGD-VpYUgXz_rVg6ltLOu-tLs_cQxI4Mq1O8xLgVVp3Bkk9zxBG0feai-j0EIyCRxah/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_50.jpg" /></a></div><br />We eventually plan to create a "faux" panel that I can add to the backs of the bookcases when the painting or wallpapering mood strikes.  That way I can change things up without doing anything permanent I may regret down the road.  We also hope to add decorative lighting to the tops, and the outlets added to each side will come in handy when that day comes as well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzxYrbnszWagGx8_AyYQ_iXY56Gx4ch31vbFypD2OKb78KdbdwMaEixzzzi45nxznfHkqwXpbvZBPy-PG3AVO9R5f8ba9P2blVXheSeppStwrCcc9HoFq8iVMjq5TR8cTmcPUeUKePCBgc/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzxYrbnszWagGx8_AyYQ_iXY56Gx4ch31vbFypD2OKb78KdbdwMaEixzzzi45nxznfHkqwXpbvZBPy-PG3AVO9R5f8ba9P2blVXheSeppStwrCcc9HoFq8iVMjq5TR8cTmcPUeUKePCBgc/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_38.jpg" /></a></div><br />I am so in love with the tile and all of the moulding and trim details.  The final result is definitely a functional moment-maker!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAhpyVLaERCgFNLQ2YDqJojkHFyxM4s3taMg0LXCuvfDkXrttluDdnhA2cq3kGoWvYFtHPw4JvjKuXppnD_SEEDuxYMkO0Mb_AGj_RT6X_fDu_PmJZWWyFCFqtrMvDvNvOjkuvSzsnYtn/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAhpyVLaERCgFNLQ2YDqJojkHFyxM4s3taMg0LXCuvfDkXrttluDdnhA2cq3kGoWvYFtHPw4JvjKuXppnD_SEEDuxYMkO0Mb_AGj_RT6X_fDu_PmJZWWyFCFqtrMvDvNvOjkuvSzsnYtn/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_42.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNab-y5Z3YPFqBnKCEiLZkrkxY68IsFqv4Ms1MrgnR_jRztuMvsqpqMgDoCP3QHhGfxS4Sh64d9qQuh-h-14WX1wTaTDrwzEf4X3ylOa0qxlQ1y8sgBZuERBMJOqlNPi2YUEU6IEUc4LrB/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNab-y5Z3YPFqBnKCEiLZkrkxY68IsFqv4Ms1MrgnR_jRztuMvsqpqMgDoCP3QHhGfxS4Sh64d9qQuh-h-14WX1wTaTDrwzEf4X3ylOa0qxlQ1y8sgBZuERBMJOqlNPi2YUEU6IEUc4LrB/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_41.jpg" /></a></div><br />Most of this project was far from pretty and I had multiple moments throughout the construction process where I wondered if it would all come together as envisioned.  But it did!  In fact, it exceeded our expectations and we are happy we were able to achieve all of the goals and finally check off a big home wish list item.  Just in time for the hot summer, <i>ha!</i><br /><br />

DIY Fireplace Built-In Tutorial

Today I am giving a warm welcome to Monday. We took the weekend to focus on family fun activities and hosting some friends and family. It ...

4:05 PM

DIY Tray Turned Mirror

Although we took on quite a few large projects in our recent <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-week-6-iheart-living.html" target="_blank">living room renovation</a>, one of my favorites ended up being a last minute mirror update.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5c0fwl79d8wkkCgGSDZYvzpsdFB0SkqUfK-QD6ccGTadl42oC-flDQUtap3j9eZBMY6etecaTCWt9x-fFdbqOil0D7sT9HGh6AxgkJZTpIkFIo-G_0Tm8143qGwGKK5f1kAmh3yedSYCs/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5c0fwl79d8wkkCgGSDZYvzpsdFB0SkqUfK-QD6ccGTadl42oC-flDQUtap3j9eZBMY6etecaTCWt9x-fFdbqOil0D7sT9HGh6AxgkJZTpIkFIo-G_0Tm8143qGwGKK5f1kAmh3yedSYCs/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_Header.png" /></a></div><br />Since the start of the living room update, I thought the mirror above the shoe cabinet was too small to scale (I have also been wanting to steal it to use in our bathroom).  But finding anything that wasn't also too big, was proving difficult.  I was looking for something square or round, wood finish and between 24" and 30" tall/wide.  Weeks of popping into shops and Internet searches and I was coming up short.  I found many I loved, but they were always too tall or wide.  And then I found "the one" at CB2.  It was nothing over-the-top amazing, but I appreciated the wood color, size and simplicity.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiscQBm1p53COLt3huEWRhe5Fcg7_ofkcMTULZgDgvVad5xC4gyvbKFNg75GghT0XXuO5S7JFASZvclgDlKQop1Yo1YCdBhypNmr23a7qjl8wCfhVnsR4T461ik3Mg5wTf9JMY3P2972rbl/s1600/acacia-wood-mirror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiscQBm1p53COLt3huEWRhe5Fcg7_ofkcMTULZgDgvVad5xC4gyvbKFNg75GghT0XXuO5S7JFASZvclgDlKQop1Yo1YCdBhypNmr23a7qjl8wCfhVnsR4T461ik3Mg5wTf9JMY3P2972rbl/s1600/acacia-wood-mirror.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<a href="http://www.cb2.com/acacia-wood-24-mirror/s379140?a=501&device=c&network=g&matchtype=&country=US&gclid=CjwKEAjwvbGqBRCs3eH4o5C74CYSJAB3TODsTF9UGEMJksrEy-JKZUt72EPkXfENywrWnKhzH7sDTBoCtAjw_wcB" target="_blank">via</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />At $129 it wasn't the cheapest option, but it definitely wasn't the most expensive I had found in my searching.  Thinking I had finally found what I had been digging for, I added it to my online shopping cart.  And then the <i>"back-ordered until May"</i> punch in the gut happened.  OK then. <br /><br />While doing some local shopping I decided to head into an actual CB2 store just to see if it would be a different story.  Then, I spotted it!  Hanging right smack dab in the center of the store.  I ran over to it like a kid running to that furry little puppy in a pet store window.  I was so hopeful and then so suddenly disappointed when I was told the store wouldn't be getting any more in until June.  Gah!  Such teases.<br /><br />So we started looking into a few DIY options and even began researching how to bend wood.  And then the universe aligned in my favor and there it was buried in a HomeGoods aisle... a drop dead gorgeous acacia wood tray.<br /><br />Measuring in at just over 24", I knew it was everything I was looking for in a mirror, minus the mirror itself.  Thanks to a handy tape measure in my handbag, I determined I needed to find a 22" mirror insert STAT.  A quick Google search later showed that IKEA sells a <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/30133522/" target="_blank">22" frameless mirror</a>, and I just knew it was all meant to be.  I sighed in relief and crossed my fingers that the mirror would be in stock at IKEA and would truly fit as planned.  Lucky for me, it all worked out. <br /><br />To affix the new mirror to the tray, we started with a <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Loctite-10-fl-oz-PL530-Mirror-Marble-and-Granite-Adhesive-1693636/203438035" target="_blank">Mirror, Marble & Granite Loctite</a> adhesive.  I wanted to go right for stuff meant for these types of projects to reduce the risk of the mirror detaching and falling from the frame.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpF-Pk-ChntLENQ1-u1iUx-z6RKq2AME_Uk0Af_RlYfGGrwQqn39kL349lvca5ODJVXd2v4h3e1vXV4ouMn-YzU894Q9bG-52fpItohvp0Sc8ou9oDWF6DYqlT9whpoHa-ihT_cLhBhlQB/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpF-Pk-ChntLENQ1-u1iUx-z6RKq2AME_Uk0Af_RlYfGGrwQqn39kL349lvca5ODJVXd2v4h3e1vXV4ouMn-YzU894Q9bG-52fpItohvp0Sc8ou9oDWF6DYqlT9whpoHa-ihT_cLhBhlQB/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_2.jpg" /></a></div><br />We were generous with the application of the glue....<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiry-dHC1RYGat1YNlHizTmheBbiw1lOuXG9x_7OW097lWwqp63Wl3a4vCpfWaWSRQyHVK3K8kLMstsiHCpHd8wgs2GCYWJLmKt1pa9fJ-PL633ZGhJllopfhLoQJ4Z7O7kfZCJG6PNNRqc/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiry-dHC1RYGat1YNlHizTmheBbiw1lOuXG9x_7OW097lWwqp63Wl3a4vCpfWaWSRQyHVK3K8kLMstsiHCpHd8wgs2GCYWJLmKt1pa9fJ-PL633ZGhJllopfhLoQJ4Z7O7kfZCJG6PNNRqc/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_3.jpg" /></a></div><br />And as excited as I was to see it up on the wall, we waited a full 48 hours for the glue to cure to the mirror (which fit the frame like a glove).  The adhesion seems very solid, the mirror isn't going anywhere anytime soon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsirWaECAtX799bVFYhax5f13s81fwdSDCndW6rkgDARdUx22L9Sn4e9C4j9I1o-lZfOyIDmzNwgWbTGQbgOmnIzhzVEXxcUCihmZZxNwK-TIZjHsj1NmOLPExn-WJJFppTnZCKWM7rMdh/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsirWaECAtX799bVFYhax5f13s81fwdSDCndW6rkgDARdUx22L9Sn4e9C4j9I1o-lZfOyIDmzNwgWbTGQbgOmnIzhzVEXxcUCihmZZxNwK-TIZjHsj1NmOLPExn-WJJFppTnZCKWM7rMdh/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_5.jpg" /></a></div><br />The tray came with some rubber feet attached, which we left on the back to keep it cushioned against the wall.  To hang the mirror, we went with our trusted picture hanging system consisting of screws, hooks and wire rated to handle the weight of the mirror and tray (<a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/OOK-17-Piece-Heavy-Object-Picture-Hanging-Kit-50932/100169293" target="_blank">similar</a>).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QWIQlTRq7sIOPO45yH3ZgTuDbbLCJZEopVIyC3hY7y6_YpQ05FNWZD3glLjf5vnOvfMyFh5DuuWs5L-lr91QLQXS-SCGsyIzUsnMLj1mT_CQkTo605YpTGy3v1dG5HU3Uq-QhcwAPuAJ/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5QWIQlTRq7sIOPO45yH3ZgTuDbbLCJZEopVIyC3hY7y6_YpQ05FNWZD3glLjf5vnOvfMyFh5DuuWs5L-lr91QLQXS-SCGsyIzUsnMLj1mT_CQkTo605YpTGy3v1dG5HU3Uq-QhcwAPuAJ/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_1.jpg" /></a></div><br />Just be sure to select a screw that is not as thick as the tray, or add a washer or two to make up the difference.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhpMiaKJGqRoP2u9bQSnPogOo9eZHoe4yoINoK00QGtKgxIBlOlktj93p3bBYpp_ehhmM9YOzuR-kU15KrHaXjNj1NFZemtp0pmxr2V_XwLm54tqoxDJf09rTWB9e2_T2_nQl8NtKxHQGw/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhpMiaKJGqRoP2u9bQSnPogOo9eZHoe4yoINoK00QGtKgxIBlOlktj93p3bBYpp_ehhmM9YOzuR-kU15KrHaXjNj1NFZemtp0pmxr2V_XwLm54tqoxDJf09rTWB9e2_T2_nQl8NtKxHQGw/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_4.jpg" /></a></div><br />And that was it!  One of the easiest projects in the space, yet one of my absolute favorites.  I just love the warmth it adds, and that I was able to get the look of the CB2 option for half of the cost!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2R2uiE568CCaMXFOPo9cpHkGs-iZvxyt8tqvjym7PMrxS4x-7jrfstId7ShlNfSQVAjkuhYRGubxEnv6ACwGevBa38u4yVahoNBDDnz_jwV-ZwYnuulWUuW2m6kTU3p20APxObAek35e/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2R2uiE568CCaMXFOPo9cpHkGs-iZvxyt8tqvjym7PMrxS4x-7jrfstId7ShlNfSQVAjkuhYRGubxEnv6ACwGevBa38u4yVahoNBDDnz_jwV-ZwYnuulWUuW2m6kTU3p20APxObAek35e/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_9.jpg" /></a></div><br />And I thought the handles might bother me, but they don't at all.  In fact, I sort of love the quirkiness that they add.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcqeWzPRmEdF-39Bg0iC-Ig1XE3IGQXTvG8gUjoSaja25D_nKTn3PUdh1wiOmuNL43eWs7YQkNLCeAmoL9yeWXozdy4Ay108XMSlbZDCqlPsp6wtc9TYcJqhCFvYON6VckO1RH6NlcsYxD/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcqeWzPRmEdF-39Bg0iC-Ig1XE3IGQXTvG8gUjoSaja25D_nKTn3PUdh1wiOmuNL43eWs7YQkNLCeAmoL9yeWXozdy4Ay108XMSlbZDCqlPsp6wtc9TYcJqhCFvYON6VckO1RH6NlcsYxD/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_8.jpg" /></a></div><br />Knowing that every HomeGoods stocks and offers different products, it may be hard to track down this exact tray.  However, I still wanted to share in case you had one on hand, see one when you are out or use the powers of Google to track down something similar.  Also, the odds that IKEA happened to sell a frameless round mirror that fit perfectly was all about luck.  In my searches I did notice that both Lowes and Home Depot offer a giant variety of frameless mirror options; round, oval, square and rectangular.  And if all else fails, you may be able to find a home improvement or glass shop that could cut one for you.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_KMnmrbiSA0MyjmxiTKlusZUmfaENVxXfEB9fD8IYkvLNHpPfC3nWBT5Jhxu36glWqIOtesNFPpjWwJnBiTOKDsA78wOMFGUGxl5deVTXN5oOJs4Cdl8HOTJhbCN3S0YmRM1qeyVhcPe/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq_KMnmrbiSA0MyjmxiTKlusZUmfaENVxXfEB9fD8IYkvLNHpPfC3nWBT5Jhxu36glWqIOtesNFPpjWwJnBiTOKDsA78wOMFGUGxl5deVTXN5oOJs4Cdl8HOTJhbCN3S0YmRM1qeyVhcPe/s1600/DIY_Tray_Mirror_10.jpg" /></a></div><br />There has been a lot of tray talk around here lately!  I guess it just goes to show how versatile they really are.  Not only do they rock for storage all over the home, they also make a pretty amazing framed mirror!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

DIY Tray Turned Mirror

Although we took on quite a few large projects in our recent living room renovation , one of my favorites ended up being a last minute mirro...

12:29 PM

One Room Challenge Week 6 - IHeart Living Room Reveal!

<i>Welcome to Week 6 of the One Room Challenge being hosted by <a href="http://www.callingithome.com/" target="_blank">Linda of Calling it Home</a>.  You can see our plans <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/04/one-room-challenge-week-1-iheart-living.html" target="_blank">here</a> and follow all of the progress <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/search/label/One%20Room%20Challenge" target="_blank">here</a>.  Today my friends, is REVEAL day!</i><br /><i><br /></i> It is here!  The moment I have been building up for the past five weeks.  Yes, if you do the math, I shared our plans just five speedy weeks ago, and today we are kicking our feet up and enjoying our new living space!  Oh the difference five weeks makes!  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrr1ogWkrkyFoOA2T0BxnkvG9iPULNjC6aJfy45J2Nka1InuLnPRFqXplf87tDk_z-V-OdjKVJnnZT9PXNLVtgwBuSACoeRZci8kj_D8x9mx9ecrRMIFp8nRWhLiU0ZqiLNdMHqQkWYz9L/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Before_After_4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrr1ogWkrkyFoOA2T0BxnkvG9iPULNjC6aJfy45J2Nka1InuLnPRFqXplf87tDk_z-V-OdjKVJnnZT9PXNLVtgwBuSACoeRZci8kj_D8x9mx9ecrRMIFp8nRWhLiU0ZqiLNdMHqQkWYz9L/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Before_After_4.png" /></a></div><br />Heck, such a dramatic difference just in the last week!<br /><br />I can honestly say that this challenge pushed me in endless new ways.  I appreciate you hanging in there through my indecision, my meltdowns, my highs and lows... This has been by far the biggest transformation we have tackled in the shortest amount of time!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjey57SlX2ejTiH7Yhs9QoqE_id_WB5F8ymkgAWGEncH8xK6zlMWrvxKe9cAJcUk9r0637oOHTqJrLnEi-8Ur1qFlL_bE32FGKqXFgl3nrHUDj8Iln6ialH-8UzEIDTNOuw6Bm7NqbbsV4W/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjey57SlX2ejTiH7Yhs9QoqE_id_WB5F8ymkgAWGEncH8xK6zlMWrvxKe9cAJcUk9r0637oOHTqJrLnEi-8Ur1qFlL_bE32FGKqXFgl3nrHUDj8Iln6ialH-8UzEIDTNOuw6Bm7NqbbsV4W/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_10.jpg" /></a></div><br />Are there things we didn't check off the list?  Sure, about fifty of them.  And not everything turned out as planned either.  But I couldn't be more excited or thrilled about how far we have come.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2wOgni_p_jGArk-7ozdQmXj4pvLGM9ZbRe0dQuQlnZ_1dgR1fklGbHxNlf1u8F0-F6zKSpEDH85u7mPjwnL4CLFhoZm6qZT4dZSEuPkOTuC05-l2yTOeuWDsUfCrP5e7w0FW-2NTvjnJ/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2wOgni_p_jGArk-7ozdQmXj4pvLGM9ZbRe0dQuQlnZ_1dgR1fklGbHxNlf1u8F0-F6zKSpEDH85u7mPjwnL4CLFhoZm6qZT4dZSEuPkOTuC05-l2yTOeuWDsUfCrP5e7w0FW-2NTvjnJ/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_1.jpg" /></a></div><br />In fact, this room is filled with project after project and hour after hour of our hearts.  That is what we love most, so much DIY to make this space our own.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6FfxZ4WOTHfplxKops1P1BznhRGcq6E6xN6XIqQ6LOL0RpFFsPv2NUk-utNaTi7dqGDnOa6IB8NKzNCH4ArGCBM4pAFf0nWDtCchyphenhyphenGQUtz2weDVXVpX9yYyP6AGG6Zw9PNsvcOmOd6VI/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6FfxZ4WOTHfplxKops1P1BznhRGcq6E6xN6XIqQ6LOL0RpFFsPv2NUk-utNaTi7dqGDnOa6IB8NKzNCH4ArGCBM4pAFf0nWDtCchyphenhyphenGQUtz2weDVXVpX9yYyP6AGG6Zw9PNsvcOmOd6VI/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_33.jpg" /></a></div><br />What did we tackle ourselves you ask?  Everything from installing new floors and trim to building a giant fireplace surround to painting the chairs (multiple times) to constructing and tufting an ottoman.  Oh, and we also DIY'd the mirror, reupholstered a chair, installed all of the hardware and new lighting and painted the shoe cabinet.  Hot dang!  Labor of love is an understatement!  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgREDTnOecMM1M_a9VHNyhWit6BhRGANEYekeLU32To8IU78qn1WDWXmUNDYrJsRV6-QrbgD_5Vp9oQMZbS_frfNELTzKsS0nwLq5CO6zRMK7ZbKG9v_FyqzpeDVz7s9LS9UlfC9gMH3at_/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgREDTnOecMM1M_a9VHNyhWit6BhRGANEYekeLU32To8IU78qn1WDWXmUNDYrJsRV6-QrbgD_5Vp9oQMZbS_frfNELTzKsS0nwLq5CO6zRMK7ZbKG9v_FyqzpeDVz7s9LS9UlfC9gMH3at_/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_43.jpg" /></a></div><br />As I mentioned, the outcome and direction of the room shifted over the course of the weeks, yet the ultimate goal remained the same.  We strived to create a space that is family friendly yet stylish, bold and colorful with a side of traditional, playful yet mature, unique and a bit unexpected, all while being filled with pieces that speak to us.  Nothing in the space is too precious for family living, yet there are moments that feel like we have grown up a bit.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ResAmySVhJKhrwnMFbKKkrslO-qdMZaL-Lfw0gDu5bqLCSz5ikW5k4r6W6pu6QTkdaIp7rEddAaoPOSIXHEs7HSneim6GVgCrcnfZrNCWAbG5b0jCP9V6kFaaoxpCg5a819vX90RsAAy/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ResAmySVhJKhrwnMFbKKkrslO-qdMZaL-Lfw0gDu5bqLCSz5ikW5k4r6W6pu6QTkdaIp7rEddAaoPOSIXHEs7HSneim6GVgCrcnfZrNCWAbG5b0jCP9V6kFaaoxpCg5a819vX90RsAAy/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_53.jpg" /></a></div><br />I think what I love most about this process is that it allowed me to show how a space evolves over time (even if that time is only a few weeks).  The middle really made no sense, even to me, but after everything started layering in, it really came together beautifully.  Textiles and accessories really made all of the difference, everything from the stunning black-banded pleated curtains (thank you <a href="http://www.tonicliving.com/" target="_blank">Tonic Living</a>!) to the pillow and chair patterns to the neutral rug and sofa.     <br /><br />Although someday we hope to add a formal entryway to the front of our home, for now we are stuck with the smallest landing in this history of landings.  And we are front door people (the garage is used for projects, not parking), so we didn't want to mess with the long lasting system that works hard for us.  Right inside the door lives a slim shoe storage cabinet, which we painted a beautiful gray, as well as a credenza which functions as storage cubbies for the boys.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipFOQG5-Q4i8KR3ZN-27XPGcjIkeZJJ9ZWm72Sk5DqbZypFzh2Jbt0VzCzIdDdB6Z7dM21W-OQBonWVsS9-kS6l0TTsuEt3yVrYB0lfgBgsysswgYJuCKMl7AgjTiHaAmPASnwyZiCHW4k/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipFOQG5-Q4i8KR3ZN-27XPGcjIkeZJJ9ZWm72Sk5DqbZypFzh2Jbt0VzCzIdDdB6Z7dM21W-OQBonWVsS9-kS6l0TTsuEt3yVrYB0lfgBgsysswgYJuCKMl7AgjTiHaAmPASnwyZiCHW4k/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_17.jpg" /></a></div><br />I really enjoy taking photos so I selected a slew of my favorites and had them printed and framed on the stairway wall.  I love that they bring a splash of color to the entry area and tell some of our favorite stories.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG5AdBgww8w5Ack_KmSdostxZNUIgRx9X_Fc4d56SzuxOKXvtqGsB1oY24ilU9P7DhRyhyphenhyphen62PuKlRUfJrUI7zKtdZuOagwQLDK0kjb__qU2vlKGMW5vWPh1YgCusIJtUjd4orDOdGbOEal/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG5AdBgww8w5Ack_KmSdostxZNUIgRx9X_Fc4d56SzuxOKXvtqGsB1oY24ilU9P7DhRyhyphenhyphen62PuKlRUfJrUI7zKtdZuOagwQLDK0kjb__qU2vlKGMW5vWPh1YgCusIJtUjd4orDOdGbOEal/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_21.jpg" /></a></div><br />The painted shoe cabinet is holding up beautifully and is a prime spot to drop keys and a wallet while also providing a place to hold blank stationery and pens.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQ9heYs81iJY986Wi3piS0tOOMmbrO5rpyt-Oo2aW7U4u9n_IFrY5b45qrjlZM8Kgu-Si6Dp_jsaJ5qdZG0moMauIuCKM4Y1aXNjRU8z_buljR02KdFW6t_cD4Juv-aa-j_u_K6bHQNen/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdQ9heYs81iJY986Wi3piS0tOOMmbrO5rpyt-Oo2aW7U4u9n_IFrY5b45qrjlZM8Kgu-Si6Dp_jsaJ5qdZG0moMauIuCKM4Y1aXNjRU8z_buljR02KdFW6t_cD4Juv-aa-j_u_K6bHQNen/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_54.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_bOriw00BaU_I2fR6REfPAjDNgwo5B9Y561JiBAPHmBfne67gTX90t5ILbWB8vwxX98G0jcR41MUhsqYVgsXDOHYf5nDxp_sUZrwfDvbjhOIyZvj5YLHp2T4QF2nEko_57Q34xQb4Fin/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt_bOriw00BaU_I2fR6REfPAjDNgwo5B9Y561JiBAPHmBfne67gTX90t5ILbWB8vwxX98G0jcR41MUhsqYVgsXDOHYf5nDxp_sUZrwfDvbjhOIyZvj5YLHp2T4QF2nEko_57Q34xQb4Fin/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_51.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />The room is long and narrow, so we used a large area rug to divide the space into two functions.  It really allows us to create an "entryway" where there was none, and to also define a cozy living area.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3A_RxDWy5Y8Ak7GuXIVy0Fd3OgArGK6gDw6HjklIqdlQu4Zg6npvx7gurww7wNwqsN1wrY9O6JJSmxyy0qfgOytoSANlNyOCWUOzed8Ck12ymv3QzZdq1jpwJ2gZwofhpeq9OuUtD-o3N/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_55-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3A_RxDWy5Y8Ak7GuXIVy0Fd3OgArGK6gDw6HjklIqdlQu4Zg6npvx7gurww7wNwqsN1wrY9O6JJSmxyy0qfgOytoSANlNyOCWUOzed8Ck12ymv3QzZdq1jpwJ2gZwofhpeq9OuUtD-o3N/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_55-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />I had beautiful peonies the first day I shot photos... they died overnight. #sadfacedflowerkiller  Day two I was saved by a bunch of beautiful blooms clipped from shrubs in the front of our home.  Both days our living area smelled divine!<br /><br />The entire project started off with a floral fabric as my inspiration, and to my dismay, I was unable to get my paws on it in time because it was back-ordered.  The new plan was to use an alternate fabric that had all of the same colors (our home's signature palette), so that when the floral option arrives someday, I can swap things with the seasons.  I landed on <span id="bc_0_55b+seedEVXYD" kind="d">Schumacher's Jade Chiang Mai (which I found on eBay), and it really provides a beautiful, colorful moment in the space. </span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBNiYTaT-HAokMaNciq3k14UJ-gopoKfhTdlQVSl-jdagzSfxo17EUGYeVvMp5_Z_Hw063q8vx3WLmZOyIcMHnXQwneKwa8BygxG-gysN9G310sOXytJJ31_seuVYHe8-8Lk6ArKe4hn3l/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBNiYTaT-HAokMaNciq3k14UJ-gopoKfhTdlQVSl-jdagzSfxo17EUGYeVvMp5_Z_Hw063q8vx3WLmZOyIcMHnXQwneKwa8BygxG-gysN9G310sOXytJJ31_seuVYHe8-8Lk6ArKe4hn3l/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_32.jpg" /></a></div><br />It has a matching friend across the room on my Craigslist chair. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYI2GMHErrItIVqyU9Tls_WJ6xjo5uNWqeQlmZDXC9hcLG11Q0yPD74Iu1UKpQqHjOJAC6g_-S4NJ6sPRlk44iQj2SdkWS2Qh9hmb1K5yKmu_ZISTJINM41H3B_a5zr3dyj8KB9zRsWSEc/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYI2GMHErrItIVqyU9Tls_WJ6xjo5uNWqeQlmZDXC9hcLG11Q0yPD74Iu1UKpQqHjOJAC6g_-S4NJ6sPRlk44iQj2SdkWS2Qh9hmb1K5yKmu_ZISTJINM41H3B_a5zr3dyj8KB9zRsWSEc/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_48.jpg" /></a></div><br />Speaking of chairs....<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcs5m-pSCUkoV0azTtw0cpB1WqYo48Sye5PgM9a35bKkgzMFx2Bwk9_AlL5Bm6aA6xs0WmLRiaTiw2kFLUQ05c8rKgCshyphenhyphenuQTlOXiaoDwT_5zgo2tQoN8_2geHIjAXP5l_48RkfeZBIiK/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcs5m-pSCUkoV0azTtw0cpB1WqYo48Sye5PgM9a35bKkgzMFx2Bwk9_AlL5Bm6aA6xs0WmLRiaTiw2kFLUQ05c8rKgCshyphenhyphenuQTlOXiaoDwT_5zgo2tQoN8_2geHIjAXP5l_48RkfeZBIiK/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_9.jpg" /></a></div><br />I am a sucker for pretty white painted furniture and I appreciate that it typically cleans up nicely, even with kids.  And even though I initially held our chair fabric up to both a black piece of wood and a white piece of wood, and we voted on the black combo, my gut went with what it knew and selected white.  I thought black would look too "fancy", while white is more casual.  But the chair and I got in a fight and I admitted I was wrong so we hugged and made up just after it received two fresh coats of black paint.  The black turned out to be a gorgeous contrast, yet still remains unique and playful.  Being a bold pattern lover, this chair makes my grinning cheeks sore.  We selected so many neutral elements throughout, that I needed one bold moment and that was it!<br /><br />There is no doubt that the biggest change to the space was the addition of the fireplace and built-ins.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMD1Dh-_G46blxDJpaHBcYnivElhlYZ4DqH6JymkiqPRdPmzZjtatTAFwGTua52XLV-gZPaN2N_LI6gGmtLhBm3i67jqtXPtA9jplJbvWrxVQgeIzI4pHs65JqD9EotElB6UKCWzz8qnAa/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMD1Dh-_G46blxDJpaHBcYnivElhlYZ4DqH6JymkiqPRdPmzZjtatTAFwGTua52XLV-gZPaN2N_LI6gGmtLhBm3i67jqtXPtA9jplJbvWrxVQgeIzI4pHs65JqD9EotElB6UKCWzz8qnAa/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_4.jpg" /></a></div><br />This major moment was just finished up on Saturday!  But boy-oh-boy are we going to love every last bit of having a nice warm fire and a TV we can see from anywhere in the kitchen, living and dining areas.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin72uoU9AC2R7PRzllWrFbWza-aFgYHbucKlX4jfsNc-8kVkw6KWPESue0qSYtFXe1nltaUXiBf-ALv8E4s8d66XvMfJJQqR25kwYkI_TYA_NQb4UMckvuwaX1U_29YBqh9XY1xbhQ4xxu/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin72uoU9AC2R7PRzllWrFbWza-aFgYHbucKlX4jfsNc-8kVkw6KWPESue0qSYtFXe1nltaUXiBf-ALv8E4s8d66XvMfJJQqR25kwYkI_TYA_NQb4UMckvuwaX1U_29YBqh9XY1xbhQ4xxu/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_8.jpg" /></a></div><br />The room needed layers and our personal touches, and the shelves offer a place for special pieces to land.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMzntVoQfmlwL1ULvJOirFAutN3StNFO-HOXFAN869msKnblDCjMgwXsmnDfmgDOu2uf_82yxt5j5HPROVYqjn-ZEBJUyUeaav2hIkt4wd3afJmPaKlZxwahSh06kwEE-mBSzV85QievI/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMzntVoQfmlwL1ULvJOirFAutN3StNFO-HOXFAN869msKnblDCjMgwXsmnDfmgDOu2uf_82yxt5j5HPROVYqjn-ZEBJUyUeaav2hIkt4wd3afJmPaKlZxwahSh06kwEE-mBSzV85QievI/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_28.jpg" /></a></div><br />Everything from books to crayons to portraits, each shelf tells a story and provides both open and concealed storage for living room essentials.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0zeKOwp0zzm3lMoUd-U-pSAyll5u-8KSP8jsnt7iAPqHQFdkUVnxeUE5OISdYZX6L_Pcpk6DtVjnYCIZyFM3xzInDfdv4OSwsXDGja10J2GoWHpjxPEWb4MQGoYh0G89HILdcdClDJL0/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0zeKOwp0zzm3lMoUd-U-pSAyll5u-8KSP8jsnt7iAPqHQFdkUVnxeUE5OISdYZX6L_Pcpk6DtVjnYCIZyFM3xzInDfdv4OSwsXDGja10J2GoWHpjxPEWb4MQGoYh0G89HILdcdClDJL0/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_23.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKO8XyyldyvCNF5tE-tSSOdfxJwZ8to970WB92wNfR7t8rDf7TnzbBO-ylteey_Vh_3aYTk9p-IxNBGiBjN090MdFPmYx0YXgD7w6NMY8X4aEKcz-ynGI0vyjSKLa5ZO9R6ywSGq6aedNv/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKO8XyyldyvCNF5tE-tSSOdfxJwZ8to970WB92wNfR7t8rDf7TnzbBO-ylteey_Vh_3aYTk9p-IxNBGiBjN090MdFPmYx0YXgD7w6NMY8X4aEKcz-ynGI0vyjSKLa5ZO9R6ywSGq6aedNv/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_58.jpg" /></a></div><br />And the tile had me at hello!  It literally grabbed me as I was walking the aisles at Home Depot.  Although we had already purchased something else, and when I spotted the herringbone marble, I knew it would be mine.  Thank goodness stores take returns.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIK33-Ww-9MnJ3xx4pd37z9jZwTWC-l3XOM886kyvl-ToX4syiIOcBOP4Yg6gLYE6SlJ8hPRSeBlBb6LZnJYCCnWLoTHbB0hSyBDAtPLbR8gVIqr9aOEd3Cqhqhey0XpTKmcEK7SzzVZ2/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjIK33-Ww-9MnJ3xx4pd37z9jZwTWC-l3XOM886kyvl-ToX4syiIOcBOP4Yg6gLYE6SlJ8hPRSeBlBb6LZnJYCCnWLoTHbB0hSyBDAtPLbR8gVIqr9aOEd3Cqhqhey0XpTKmcEK7SzzVZ2/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_59.jpg" /></a></div><br />Although there were things that didn't go right, that we made mistakes and course corrected, that we worked up to the absolute last minute and stayed up way past our bedtime too many nights to count, that I may have hit up seventeen different HomeGoods stores and gotten a flat tire in the process... We are gosh darn proud of how much we accomplished in such a short period of time! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRoGGYjLxNatBnL09WkdbmsASxCEvHgskFaZhyphenhyphen414EjbhKC2_JP7l5nutB77VxJIXtgdqCz-RY4hf6g1ysGbPCzCOHO1RULzl1-dNfp9rVLgHwjBrWXGbktFhGBvD9lDHZxz-fq8JoXoRg/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Before_After_2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRoGGYjLxNatBnL09WkdbmsASxCEvHgskFaZhyphenhyphen414EjbhKC2_JP7l5nutB77VxJIXtgdqCz-RY4hf6g1ysGbPCzCOHO1RULzl1-dNfp9rVLgHwjBrWXGbktFhGBvD9lDHZxz-fq8JoXoRg/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Before_After_2.png" /></a></div><br />The room is cozy and friendly and functions just as we hoped it would.  And although we have only lived with it for a few days now, we love that it offers flexibility and that we all have a place to plop down with a good book or to catch up on our favorite sitcom while chatting with the folks in the nearby kitchen.  I can't wait to continue to make this space feel like "home" for many years to come.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmT8DBkqgrAZSq9yAWZKJHmusSyYpk-EIJFju8OwQkwv96gFKU_qbpU1EENEN8P2Nf8kyczLYoEc0XCQAEi9NPa6KrOoXNyzqr4ruqeEJmArBhq6L8d-qoOqg7G5CYjVdH7uJ-lcBfG5Te/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Before_After_1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmT8DBkqgrAZSq9yAWZKJHmusSyYpk-EIJFju8OwQkwv96gFKU_qbpU1EENEN8P2Nf8kyczLYoEc0XCQAEi9NPa6KrOoXNyzqr4ruqeEJmArBhq6L8d-qoOqg7G5CYjVdH7uJ-lcBfG5Te/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Before_After_1.png" /></a></div><br />Other than shoes in the cabinet by the door, we haven't officially "moved in" to any of the other storage spaces yet.  You can imagine I am super excited to do that over the next few weeks, although, my youngest already claimed the baskets by the fireplace for his toys and books.  But first, I need a small break and just plan to enjoy the space for the next few days before taking on any more projects.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsUJj2nanLK1N1LhyphenhyphenrwPac4Vtl1Al7yTmTuquLEMA5uDimXMsNqV7ZbO4v-eRXdvRH22q4VS8YyrfJB9BW3MtrEKNmvbc_OEqS85i2fIPT0P9Ic4flRFh9Gd4Dd_Jw2gnKDlar6zhuE2sc/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_60.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsUJj2nanLK1N1LhyphenhyphenrwPac4Vtl1Al7yTmTuquLEMA5uDimXMsNqV7ZbO4v-eRXdvRH22q4VS8YyrfJB9BW3MtrEKNmvbc_OEqS85i2fIPT0P9Ic4flRFh9Gd4Dd_Jw2gnKDlar6zhuE2sc/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_60.jpg" /></a></div><br />As I mentioned, we DIY'd our hearts out in this space.  So. Many. Projects.  I am working on the fireplace built-in tutorial and also hope to share how we made the ottoman and created the beautiful acacia wood mirror.  In the meantime, here are the sources for many of the items and colors found throughout the space:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.minted.com/product/wall-art-prints/MIN-3LZ-GNA/tulipshowers?org=photo" target="_blank">Tulip Print</a> | <a href="http://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=Light+Brown+threshold+frame&category=0|All|matchallpartial|all+categories&lnk=snav_sbox_Light+Brown+threshold+frame" target="_blank">Tulip Print Frame</a> | <a href="http://www.shopwaitingonmartha.com/products/blue-marbleized-planters?variant=1134989537" target="_blank">Blue Marble Planter</a> and <a href="http://www.shopwaitingonmartha.com/products/blue-marbleized-taper-vase" target="_blank">Vase</a> | <a href="http://www.shopwaitingonmartha.com/products/golden-doe-vase-1?variant=671005805" target="_blank">Do Vase</a> | <a href="http://homegoods.com/" target="_blank">Wood Boxes</a> | <a href="http://www.shopwaitingonmartha.com/products/jonathan-adler-mohawk-match-strike" target="_blank">Match Holder</a> | <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/04/acrylic-remote-caddy-stand.html" target="_blank">Remote Caddy</a> | <a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/search?query=bud%20vase" target="_blank">Blue Bud Vases</a> | <a href="http://www.tivoliaudio.com/?gclid=CjwKEAjw1KGqBRC55bru-sa7zCcSJAAxsBf5eLtekVzhnfY1B-D1SCYW1KQQPUiVNcvMh8jpbL53ShoCI83w_wcB" target="_blank">Radio</a> | <a href="http://www.minted.com/product/wall-art-prints/MIN-3ZI-GNA/lone-sunbather-on-dunes?org=photo" target="_blank">Sand Dune Print</a> | <a href="http://www.luluandgeorgia.com/mustang-bookends-set-of-2" target="_blank">Bookends</a> | <a href="http://homegoods.com/" target="_blank">Wood Bowl</a> | <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/MS-International-Mystic-Cloud-Arched-Herringbone-12-in-x-12-in-x-10-mm-Honed-Marble-Mesh-Mounted-Mosaic-Wall-Tile-ARCH-MC-HBH/205337446?N=5yc1vZar0yZ1z0tni8Z1z13zy8" target="_blank">Fireplace Tile</a> | <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/siiso?ref=shopsection_shophome_leftnav" target="_blank">Abstract Art Canvas</a> | <a href="http://www.wayfair.com/Cal-Lighting-Boylston-Adjustable-Floor-Lamp-BO-2032FL-AB-CG1122.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Floor Lamp</a> | <a href="http://homegoods.com/" target="_blank">Acrylic Side Table</a> | <a href="https://www.jossandmain.com/v/search/display_keyword_search_results?keyword=cloche" target="_blank">Cloche</a> | <a href="http://homegoods.com/" target="_blank">Bobbin Chair</a> | <a href="http://www.tonicliving.com/Monarch-Trellis-Meadow-P2902.aspx" target="_blank">Bobbin Chair Fabric</a> | Chair Paint Color - Glidden's Onyx Black | <a href="http://www.joann.com/" target="_blank">Lumbar Pillow Fabric</a> | <a href="http://www.tonicliving.com/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Custom Pleated Curtain Panels</a> | <a href="http://www.tonicliving.com/hardware-C160.aspx" target="_blank">Curtain Hardware</a> | <a href="http://homegoods.com/" target="_blank">Stacking Baskets</a> | Cane Chair (Craigslist), <a href="http://www.joann.com/" target="_blank">Cane Chair Fabric</a>, <a href="http://www.joann.com/" target="_blank">Ottoman Fabric</a> (DIY), <a href="http://www.worldmarket.com/product/gold+mirrored+tabletop+tray.do?&refType=&from=Search" target="_blank">Ottoman Tray</a> | <a href="http://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=blue+vase&category=0|All|matchallpartial|all+categories&lnk=snav_sbox_blue+vase" target="_blank">Tulip Vase</a> | <a href="http://www.homedecorators.com/p/watkins-sofa/00/810/" target="_blank">Sofa</a> | <a href="http://www.tonicliving.com/Chrysler-Coral-pillow-P3571.aspx" target="_blank">Coral Pillows</a> | <a href="http://www.pbteen.com/products/ribbon-trim-monogram-pillow-cover/?words=3977717&pkey=k3977717&sku=3977717" target="_blank">Black Greek Key Pillows</a> | <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/" target="_blank">Floral/Dragon Pillows</a> | <a href="http://homegoods.com/" target="_blank">Nesting Tables</a> | <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/fringed-hand-loomed-rug-gray/?pkey=e|fringe%2Brug|242|best|0|1|48||30&cm_src=NLASEARCH||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-NoMerchRules" target="_blank">Rug</a> | <a href="http://www.target.com/p/threshold-5-ceramic-asymmetrical-dipped-planter-cream/-/A-16299548#prodSlot=medium_1_13&term=planter" target="_blank">Planter</a> | Mirror (DIY) | <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/20169559/" target="_blank">Shoe Cabinet</a> (painted) | <a href="http://www.shopwaitingonmartha.com/products/yours-truly-stamp-with-ink?variant=309851831" target="_blank">Stamp</a> | <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/?cm_type=gnav" target="_blank">Pen Cup</a> | <a href="http://homegoods.com/" target="_blank">Frame</a> | <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2012/08/back-to-school-our-organized-entry.html" target="_blank">Credenza</a> | <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2013/08/a-bright-idea-in-bedroom.html" target="_blank">Lamps</a> | <a href="http://www.target.com/p/smith-hawken-decorative-wood-tray/-/A-14688374#prodSlot=medium_1_9&term=tray" target="_blank">Wood Tray</a> | <a href="http://shop.hobbylobby.com/" target="_blank">Acrylic Agate Box</a> | <a href="http://www.minted.com/product/wall-art-prints/MIN-LI1-GNA/waiting-malibu-2012?org=photo" target="_blank">Surf Wall Art</a> | <a href="http://www.michaels.com/studio-decor-basics-metro-frame/M10137858.html?dwvar_M10137858_color=Black#q=studio+decor+basics&start=1" target="_blank">Gallery Wall Frames</a> | <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/boulevard-hardware-hook/?pkey=e|hook|49|best|0|1|48||23&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-Hooks" target="_blank">Entry Hooks</a> | <a href="http://homegoods.com/" target="_blank">Entry Rug</a> | <a href="http://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=floor+vase&category=0|All|matchallpartial|all+categories&lnk=snav_sbox_floor+vase" target="_blank">Umbrella Stand</a> | <a href="https://www.jossandmain.com/v/search/display_keyword_search_results?keyword=pendant" target="_blank">Entry Pendant</a> | Wall Color - Benjamin Moore's Quiet Moments</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyzQOjT-J89I9Zkjd9pO50mme7-6xmx7aX71BxEShK3wJI-C6NyoQTb7B1hhoKzt6C3eJEBAhSqwwH91n4zqM2Nq1ZPs5A-y0-2GZ-jItlOVn9ofSU4YS4j3GenA0bgN-NMAECKPrzzyAi/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyzQOjT-J89I9Zkjd9pO50mme7-6xmx7aX71BxEShK3wJI-C6NyoQTb7B1hhoKzt6C3eJEBAhSqwwH91n4zqM2Nq1ZPs5A-y0-2GZ-jItlOVn9ofSU4YS4j3GenA0bgN-NMAECKPrzzyAi/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_39.jpg" /></a></div><br />Being such a large space to transform, I could ramble on about every last moment for hours.  I apologize if my mush brain forgot to touch on anything, but I will be back with more details over the next few weeks.  I am just grateful that for now we can say we completed the challenge with goofy smiles and huge high fives.  And low fives.  And on the side fives.  And too slow fives.  Are you ready to hop on down the line and <i>oooh</i> and <i>ahhh</i> over the rest of the One Room Challenge spaces?  I hope you have a dentist visit scheduled because today is sure to be one sweet source of room eye candy!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpYohyphenhypheneBNc4COO6G5qUMjxdGbLQiVIPCGVC3y5uAyrDVegqbcegURJaL-7x0Vyaf9mk-4gs8YtZ0BJRrltRP-r7rys5rCdIedLMKi2kTnGeAmN5EG9Hjp_sy7recLwZi_K3KRxQ3V3yZN7/s1600/ORC-500px.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpYohyphenhypheneBNc4COO6G5qUMjxdGbLQiVIPCGVC3y5uAyrDVegqbcegURJaL-7x0Vyaf9mk-4gs8YtZ0BJRrltRP-r7rys5rCdIedLMKi2kTnGeAmN5EG9Hjp_sy7recLwZi_K3KRxQ3V3yZN7/s1600/ORC-500px.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://janabek.com/blog/2015/5/5/zeog7utl5sjdz5j62i85y324y8l18m" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Jana Bek</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://mydesigndump.blogspot.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-reveal-teen-bedroom.html" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Autumn Clemons</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://www.cocokelley.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-the-reveal/" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Coco+Kelley</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://www.theenglishroom.biz/2015/05/06/one-room-challenge-spring-2015-the-ping-pong-emporium-reveal/" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The English Room</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://www.vanessafrancis.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-final-reveal-spring-2015/" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Vanessa Francis</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://www.greigedesign.com/blogs/blog/19836995-week-6-one-room-challenge" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Greige Design</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://www.hisugarplumsblog.com/2015/05/master-bedroom-makeover.html" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Hi Sugarplum</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-week-6-iheart-living.html" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">I Heart Organizing</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://www.jennasuedesign.com/blogone-room-challenge-the-reveal/" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Jenna Sue Design</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://stephaniekraussdesigns.blogspot.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-week-six-reveal.html" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Stephanie Kraus</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://www.thepursuitofstyle.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-week-six-2/" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">The Pursuit of Style</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://pawleysislandposh.blogspot.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-week-six-master.html" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Julia Ryan</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://www.savvyhomeblog.com/one-room-challenge-the-reveal/" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Savvy Home</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://simpledetailsblog.blogspot.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-another-craigslist.html" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Simple Details</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://www.simplygrove.com/one-room-challenge-week-six/" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Simply Grove</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://6thstreetdesignschool.blogspot.com/2015/05/the-one-room-challenge-janes-room-reveal.html" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">6th Street Design</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://jillsorensen.com/livelikeyou/one-room-challenge-6-the-reveal/" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Jill Sorensen</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://www.swoonworthy.co.uk/2015/05/spring-2015-one-room-challenge-eclectic-boho-glam-office-reveal.html/" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Swoon Worthy</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://waitingonmartha.com/one-room-challenge-2015-reveal/" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Waiting on Martha</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><a href="http://kimberlyschlegelwhitman.blogspot.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-week-6-big-reveal.html" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Kimberly Schlegel Whitman</a></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16.5px; line-height: 23.1px; text-align: center;"><span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Trademarked by <span><a href="http://www.callingithome.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-spring-2015-week-6.html" style="color: #002c8f; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Calling it Home</a></span></span></span></div><br /><i>Chair fabric, custom sewn curtain panels and window hardware provided by <a href="http://www.tonicliving.com/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Tonic Living</a> / Floor lamp provided by <a href="http://www.wayfair.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wayfair</a>.  Art provided by <a href="http://www.minted.com/" target="_blank">Minted</a>.  Styling Accessories provided by <a href="http://www.shopwaitingonmartha.com/" target="_blank">Waiting on Martha</a>.  IHeart Organizing is extremely grateful to have the help of special sponsors to finish this room in just a few short weeks!</i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>

One Room Challenge Week 6 - IHeart Living Room Reveal!

Welcome to Week 6 of the One Room Challenge being hosted by Linda of Calling it Home . You can see our plans here and follow all of the pr...

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One Room Challenge Week 6 - IHeart Living Room Reveal!

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