I've nearly settled into the glorious time when the only reminder of Christmas decor is the holiday cards I usually display until mid-February, if not March 1. We successfully utilized attic space in our Tiny Tudor for our holiday decor which also freed up guest room closet storage for other things. This has been a HUGE help though I may keep a small box of things in my office that were missed on the final decor walk-through, oops!
(Note: there is a A LOT of storage opportunity in our attic but the more we are up there, the more we realize we'd like to utilize the space one day for vaulted ceilings and exposed beams. That said, I am hesitant to store any more up there as I don't want to rely to heavily on the space being available ;) Below is the picture that first made me quip to my husband, "Do we really NEED an attic?"
I'm really enjoying my mid-season mantel and have a Valentine's crafternoon planned soon for a little more fun:) I LOVE mercury glass so all of this will be staying out until spring and the frosted cranberry wreath from Nana's warehouse that I have coveted,..... well,........ my entire life, will also likely not get tucked away until the Christmas cards do.
So, the pallet-box problem is this, What do I do with it now? While all the holiday inserts would still be quite suitable, the pine boughs are very crispy and less aesthetically appealing everyday.
I want to start herbs in it in front of the kitchen window in the spring but I fear it's much too cold there now for anything to grow well. It would look quite lovely on the slightly raised hearth next to that trio of candle-holders, but what does a girl put in her pallet box in January and February?? Please help, dear readers! Thank you in advance for your brilliant and creative ideas.
We don't have to wait for Christmas after-all!! Thanks to a fantastic West Elm sale and my lucky look to make sure the light I loved didn't happen to be a part of it, our Christmas gift from my Mom came early and we'll all get to enjoy it over the holidays. I asked for your votes and thoughts in this post, and Marta was spot-on with her comment:
"I pick number 3. It has a hint of rustic feel that would match the
other light fixtures but feels modern and elegant at the same time."
One recurring theme and tool in any small space planning is to choose furniture and fixtures that the eye can see beyond. Elevated furniture, glass tables, and open floors that aren't cluttered with rugs all help achieve this goal. So, while light #2 in the inital post was probably my favorite on it's own, #3 is fantastic for our small space. I also wanted something with a less defined shape as we move the dining table in and out depending on the number of guests. The West Elm Staggered Chandelier does a great job of "moving" with the table and the open arms don't stop the eye. I also like the soft diffused light these shades put out.
I'm hosting two holiday gatherings in the coming weeks and I'm so excited for the new light and mirror and how they pull this space together. Thanks Mom!!
Finally, here is the dining space when we looked at the house. It's amazing the big impact small differences can make.........
before
almost after
