COMPACT BEDROOMS

There are some great examples of bedrooms with stylish bunk beds to sleep several people in one room. This can work well for kids, who don't mind sharing space. It's still always nice to create a separate bedroom for guests, I thought the picture of the room above was a great way to divide a small space and still create two separate sleeping areas. The rooms are small but each one has a window, they're still stylish and really about the bed, a wall mounted light and some bookcases. Here are some bunks beds that also show just how many beds you can get into a space if you really want to maximize sleeping quarters.

DEB'S TOP THREE: STYLISH FRONT DOOR

Creating a stylish front door can really add to the curb appeal and character of your home. I've done a few front door makeovers and I think if you consider these 3 things you can create a stylish area.

1. A BLACK FRONT DOOR

Painting a front door black is a classic look, that tends to go with many different styles and colours. The image above (from House Beautiful) shows a black door with a window. This is something else to consider if you want to add more light on the interior of your entry.

This is a similar door from Pella with a window.  

2. EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Adding some beautiful exterior lighting also enhances the look. This sconce is similar to the one shown above, from Circa Lighting.

3. ADD URNS OR GREENERY

If you have the space to add two urns or stylish planters on either side of the front door it adds symmetry and balance to the area. Like the image above, the greenery on either side of the door adds so much to this house. The height and colour really works to create a charming area. A stylish planter or topiary from Restoration Hardware (this is 'preserved' boxwood but can only live outside in the summer). Check with your local garden store for a suitable exterior greenery for your area.

DEB'S TOP THREE: BARSTOOLS

Buying bar stools for your kitchen can take some thought. The style should be in line with the look of your kitchen and there are a lot of different stools available. Also, the function and comfort are very important depending on how you use the space – for example, is this an area where people will be sitting for hours or is it a temporary perch. Another important element is the overall height required; they come in two sizes: counter height to fit a 36" standard counter or bar height, to fit a higher counter.

You'll want to think about other functional aspects: do you want a back or arms on the stools? Do you want fabric or leather seats or something more durable with wood or metal? Do you want a modern look or something traditional?

Here are three classic and stylish options.

1.  Tolix stool from Design Within Reach

2. Vienna black stool from Crate & Barrel

3. Bentwood counter stool from West Elm

DEB'S TOP THREE: BRASS TABLE LAMPS

These days brass/gold table lamps are everywhere I turn! The beautiful lamp above is from SchoolHouseElectric, made in Oregon. I like the style of these lamps and I think they would work best as a desk lamp or hall table lighting. I've been reading a lot about the version from Target (below) because it's very affordable.

Here is the Target version that's getting a lot buzz:

Then there is this cute version from West Elm, also affordable:

And again, the SchoolHouseElectric, which is a little bit pricier:

If I get one, I'd put here, on the desk and I think it will look great!