A casual country vanity can be transformed into a chic, traditional one with the addition of a few simple accessories:
- Instead of the usual plain mirror above the vanity, replace it with a larger decorative one in a wood finish that works with the room's colors.
- Place a tall traditional lamp at one end of the vanity, in front of the mirror. A black shade works well in this setting, as it casts light downward, lending elegance to the room. Tie a pair of tassels to the lamp to further dress it up. Place a tray, even a simple plastic one, on an easel to create a buffer between the wall and the lamp.
- Place a pretty antique box in front of the lamp and fill it with candies, lotions, even aspirin. Drape a guest towel across the open box for an inviting and useful accent. Other towels can be stored conveniently--and attractively--in a dark basket placed on the floor near the vanity.
- Place a plant in a dark basket on the vanity, at the end opposite the lamp. A pair of brass candlesticks placed near the plant will add balance and shine to the area. If you hate the look of pristine candles, burn each candle for a few minutes. In front of the plant, add a small framed picture and a dish full of guest soaps.
- To finish the transformation, use Velcro to attach a skirt of dark print fabric (a sheet works well) around the vanity.
Resources Comfortable Living by Design
by Deborah Burnett
Humble Abundance, 1999
Order this title from Amazon.com.
You Can Do It! Decorating
This is a videotape decorating series that shows how to use affordable products and what you already have to create professional-looking decorating results.
Design Service Inc.
E-mail:
deborah@deborahburnett.com
Website:
www.deborahburnett.com
Guests Deborah Burnett
ASID Registered Interior Designer/Licensed Building Contractor, Design Services, Inc.
E-mail:
deborah@deborahburnett.com
Website:
www.deborahburnett.com
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