Kid & Kitsch - Unusual and Unique Chandelier Lighting

The word Kitsch is defined as a form of art that is considered an inferior, tasteless copy of an extant style of art or a worthless imitation of art of recognizable value. I find kitsch to be fun and flamboyant, a little strange, and light-hearted.

While these looks are certainly not meant for everybody, I like the idea of poking fun at 'the establishment' once in awhile, and adding an unexpected pop of crazy sometimes! And, when it comes to kid spaces, shouldn't we have a little fun and take ourselves, and our interiors, a little more lightly?

Most of the lighting in this post I've not found currently available for sale. But, depending on how crafty you are, you could certainly recreate them yourself!

Birds in their Cage Chandelier

Baby doll chandelier - spotted in Portland's Nob Hill

Pink Plastic Flamingo Chandelier

Strawberry Tea Cups - found in Agnes and Muriels in Atlanta, GA

Spoons and forks and knives, oh my!

Topsy Turvy Tea Cups and Saucers

Chiquita Banana Box Chandelier by Anneke Jacobs
(Not my favorite, but if we're talking kitsch, how could I leave it out?!)

Used Party Poppers Chandelier by Stuart Haygarth

Fantastic (and unusual) Pedestal Sinks

After my last post regarding bathroom tips for the DIY-ers, I thought why not continue the theme? So today's post is all about the pedestal sink!

  Barclay 3-75 Victoria Pedestal Sink

Why choose a pedestal sink over the traditional cabinet or vanity variety? There are a number of reasons when a pedestal sink is beneficial. Firstly, if you're looking to add clean lines, or visually open up your room, a pedestal is right for you. Also, if you're working in a tight space, they take up very little space. Another great benefit is they're super easy to clean...at least you can get to all the parts. Take that Dust Bunny's!

While most pedestal sinks are made from non-porous vitreous china in traditional styles like the one shown above, I've scoured the web to bring you a few of my favorites... and I love the nontraditional! 

Copper Pedestal, Frida by Thompson Traders

Available at vintagetub.com, this pedestal sink is hand crafted from copper as one piece. I love the chevron design on the inside of the sink basin.  

Quiescence VAN-PD Aspen Pillar Divine Pedestal Sink

Available at fixtureuniverse.com, this hand-chiseled gold granite vanity and bowl basin set can add rustic charm, or masculine elegance to your powder room.

        Contemporary Bath Oyster Pedestal Sink

Also from  fixtureuniverse.com, this glass pedestal sink has a much softer and delicate feel to it. As the manufacturer puts it "This glass is designed to showcase the superlative beauty and clarity of light shining through water like no other bath products. European-inspired glass artisanship meets advanced technology to create beautiful, durable, one-of-a-kind glass designs for most discerning clients." I definitely agree. And as a side note, wouldn't this sink look fabulous set against an elegant glass bead wallpaper?!

Earthen Fantasy Braveness Pedestal Sink, Natural Boulder

Another winner from Quiescence is this natural granite boulder set, which includes a natural granite boulder pedestal, top and basin, adds the feel of nature into your home. You can find more from their line at  quiescenceisd.com

Kohler Rêve™ Pedestal Sink

Lastly is this modern beauty from Kohler. Though made from the traditional non-porous vitreous china, the shape and lines are anything but! I love the clean, crisp lines of this sink. Perfect for an ultra-modern bathroom. To see Kohler's full line, browse though their online catalog.



Not that I expect you to install one of these beauties all on your own, but if you decide that you're up for the challenge, I found a great post online here that will walk you through the process, step-by-step. Have fun!!

DIY Bathroom Projects

I'm often asked for tips on how (and what) can be done easily by the not so handy among us.  I've decided to share with you some of those ideas that I'm often passing along to my friends.  This posting focuses on the bathroom. All of the tips I'm giving you can be done very inexpensively (depending on the materials chosen), and with very little work. Any of these projects can be completed in a weekend or less. And, just about anybody can do them!

1)  One of the easiest ways to 'spruce up' a room is with paint. If you're just looking to freshen up what you already have, just repaint with the same color you had before. You will be shocked at what a difference it can make. If you're looking to make a big change, then choose a fabulous new color!

2)  Adding wallpaper can also make a huge impact in your bathroom. I know what you're thinking...'"Wallpaper?!"  Don't fret. It's not your grandma's wallpaper anymore. From traditional florals and damask, to ultra contemporary glass bead and geometric patterns, you're sure to find many options out there that will fit with your design style and color template.

3)  Adding architectural details with molding will add huge impact to your bathroom. A stop by Home Depot will get you all the lumbar you need. From something as simple as adding crown molding, to the more complex bead-board with chair-rail combination, it's amazing what a little depth on a wall (or ceiling) can achieve. 

4)  Is your bathroom stuck in the 80's? Replacing your hardware, from the cabinet pulls to your faucet, is another simple way to freshen up a bathroom. Feeling a little bit more adventurous? Change out the faucets and showerhead! Since that involves a little bit of plumbing work, be sure to do a bit of research first. And don't forget to shut the water off before you get started!

I'd love to see some before and after photos from you guys!!!