
Dark walls have been quite popular lately, and I think this bedroom makeover from Molly Molina Crawford provides a perfect example of why this trend is here to stay. The patterned rugs, the gold accents, the colorful artwork — everything just pops against those rich, sultry walls. Colors seem more vivid, whites feel super crisp and every pattern feels a little more special and sophisticated when it’s offset by a dark hue.
Molly’s done an amazing job at keeping things streamlined, fresh and bright, and I’m impressed by how many DIYs she’s tackled in order to transform the room on a low budget and reuse many of her own pieces. Last but not least, I love her decision to add the detailing on the roman shades — it’s the perfect finishing touch to this glamorous navy and red room. Awesome job, Molly! — Kate
Have a Before & After you’d like to share? Shoot me an email with your images right here! (Low res, under 500k per image, please.)
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I’m super excited to share today’s first Before & After project for two reasons. One, I’ve been a bit preoccupied lately with three-dimensional wallpaper ideas and other sculptural wall treatments, so this fits perfectly into my current obsession. And two, I think it’s awesome that the creator of this amazing diamond wall pattern, Dana Frieling, decided to tackle this project so that she could step outside her comfort zone and learn how to use power tools. Way to go, Dana! The result looks well crafted and professional, and I love the monochromatic color choice; it gives the pattern a sculptural and elegant feel without being overbearing. I wouldn’t be surprised if this is the new best room in the house. I know I’d spend a lot of time in here gazing at this lovely wall. Well done, Dana! — Kate
Have a Before & After you’d like to share? Shoot me an email with your images right here! (Low res, under 500k per image, please.)

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While Amy and I were laying yet another layer of thick black paint on our office floors (let’s hope the fumes scare away the mice that have taken up residency between tenants), we took a break to snap some process shots. As we stood in the hallway, we met one of our new neighbors, who happens to be an audio engineer with an impressive vinyl collection. I’m not a vinyl collector myself, but I’ve always been impressed by people who put the time and care into maintaining a great collection. After we painted and I walked home, I stumbled onto a box of vinyl records that had been carelessly tossed on the side of the road and fairly scuffed up (which seems like it would be some sort of punishable hipster crime in my neighborhood). I cringed when I thought of what our new neighbor would think and wondered what sort of DIY project I could use them for now that they are un-playable. I’m still racking my brain for something clever, but these record-based pieces from artist Patrick Laurent of Quiet Boy Studio seem like a nice idea.
Patrick paints lyrics on old records and currently sells them through his Etsy shop. In addition to selections that are special to him, Patrick takes custom orders if you have lyrics that mean something to you. This would make a fun gift for someone’s birthday, wedding or anniversary, so if you’ve been trying to come up with a personalized gift, click here to check out Patrick’s current selections or order a custom piece. xo, grace

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