Check out this amazing basement/den makeover

I think we can all agree that the photo below is a pretty common, albeit horrible den. Well, Southern Living featured the makeover of this den into a living room/craft area over the holidays. I think it turned out great, and is a great example of efficiently using the space you have.

The before....
The after! (Click on the image for a larger view.) Notice the narrow bookshelves on either side of the fireplace which offer storage that didn't even exist before - a perfect example of making the most of your space. A couch instead of chairs offers more seating and cozies up the room. Large baskets under the console at the back of the chair create storage, and the table acts as a desk when needed. Shelves on the wall create a pretty gallery space.

A pretty wreath hung from the bookshelves.

A corkboard displays invites and cards.


What do you think of this makeover?

via Southern Living

Glamorous and pretty inspirational rooms from....Ikea!

Ikea's styling gets better and better. I love looking through their magazine for inspiration on how to better organize and create functional living systems. I was really impressed with the new 2010 magazine and the great rooms they shot. Here are some of my favorites. Which do you like?

Pretty and white, but still lived in

I love how this room shows that you don't need to always use pretty decorative boxes. Clear plastic containers are no fail, and even I use utility shelves in my office. For a busy lifestyle and tight deadlines nothing beats it. And this image shows that it can look nice as well.

Oh how I would love to have a daybed in my office...I'm just afraid that I would use it as a "sleep all day" bed


Amazing storage and workspace!



Isn't this bedroom glamorous?



All images via Ikea