Affordable Artwork
Here, inexpensive vintage animal prints found at an antique book dealer feature a variety of furry critters and create graphic impact on the wall. A long table surface also offers plenty of opportunity to accessorize with lamps, ceramics and collectibles well out of reach of small ones.
Horn bowl, West Elm. Chrome and wood lamps, amber art glass, Of Things Past. Vintage animal prints, D&E Lake. Custom framing, Elgin Picture and Frame.
The Look
Worried about finding a kid-friendly colour scheme? There is nothing more forgiving than one based on the colours of ... dirt. Be sure to choose an all-cotton upholstery fabric than you can pre-wash and -dry before installing. And go for seat cushions without piping, for easy cleaning.
Horn bowl, West Elm. Chrome and wood lamps, amber art glass, Of Things Past. Vintage animal prints, D&E Lake. Custom framing, Elgin Picture and Frame.
Kitchen Cabinets
Instead of spending a small fortune on wall-to-wall cabinetry and bookshelves, install out-of-the-box kitchen cabinetry. Beyond the variety of sizes and finishes, you can customize your combination to suit your needs while also being able to conceal all your electrical components, cords and other junk.
Custom built-in cabinet, IKEA. Marble countertop on cabinet, Elite Stone Design Corp. Hardware on cabinet, Lee Valley.
One-Of-A-Kind Coffee Tables
Try one of these for a focal point/activity surface that’s both tough and unique. Create a sturdy yet inexpensive base by attaching reclaimed balusters to plywood discs, then cap them with a round piece of honed marble, affixing it so it doesn’t move.
Marble and columns for custom coffee table, The Door Store. Area rug, Dash & Albert.
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