Meet my neighbors.

BEST. NEIGHBORS. EVER. ♥

DIY: Reuse project

Last year we purchased a new gazebo for our backyard because the old one was torn and broken. However, the metal panels of the old gazebo were in good shape and I hated to throw them out so I decided to integrate them into our landscaping.

There are eight pieces in total, the plan is to pair them up and use them as unique trellises throughout my gardens.

First, touch them up with a bit of black paint.

Second, place them throughout the yard.

Two for the clematis vine.

Two attached to the porch to support the grape vine.

I think they work well as trellises and a decorative back drop in the gardens.  A fabulous reuse! :)

The other two pair will be placed on the opposite side of the house (once that is landscaped) and behind the house flanking the back door. Pictures to come when finished.

See something you ♥?

Interior Design Services available by Nicole Milley

716-560-2362
Buffalo, NY

FOCUS: My life through the lens

The simple things in my life that remind me of just how precious the world around me is...


Spring flowers in bloom.

Stroll through the neighborhood on my way to the hair salon.

Kenmore, NY

Coffee with a friend at a local cafe.

Cafe 59 Buffalo, NY

An interesting and inspirational conversation with a fellow artist and local architect, Kenneth Loncke, known for his spiritual paintings and photographs. 

Artwork above painted by Kenneth Loncke, Buffalo NY

Sunday afternoon cards with mom and dad.

My four year old learning about physics.

A wonderful date night with my hubby. 

Look! We're on TV! Red Robin, Buffalo NY

Mmmm. Cheesecake Factory, Buffalo, NY

Watching my mother-in-law play her violin in the spring concert. She has always wanted to learn how to play the violin and now is as good a time as any. Way to go Mom!

Good company with great people. Interior Design Association of WNY meeting, held at White Orchard Home Furnishings, Orchard Park, NY.

Want to see more pictures from the IDA meeting? 

Visit the Interior Design Association of WNY facebook page and while you are there be sure to "like" it. :) 

It is time for some spring design.

Springtime encourages us to evaluate how we live. With longer days and warmer nights comes our desire to declutter our minds and refreshen our homes so that we can enjoy the simple pleasures of the new season. Below are some handy tips to organize and rejuvenate your space.

-Pack away half of the toys that your children own and put them away. 
The warmer days will keep your little ones busy outside and there isn't such a demand to entertain them indoors. Once they tire of those toys, switch them out with the ones that are in storage. It is like a fun shopping spree without spending any money. I do this little trick all year long.

-Go through your winter outerwear and heavy blankets.
Pack away any unwanted clothing and linens to be donated to a local shelter in the fall when the need is high. Keep a box or bag in your closets to toss unwanted items for donation.


-Use a squeegee when washing windows. 
It makes the chore much easier and it is fun too! Using a sponge, first rub away the dirt with soap and water, then squeegee the window from top to bottom.


-Don't make an entire day of de-cluttering and organizing. 
Dedicate 30 minutes 2-3 times a week to organizing. Make quick decisions about the items you want to keep and those you want to donate or throw away.


-Take down the winter drapes.
 Replace heavy drapes with some sheer panels to let the sun shine through.


-Bring in the white. 
White freshens a space. Consider painting a wall white, adding white accent tables to a space, or adding a piece of white upholstered furniture to a room, update your bed linens to white.


-Change your artwork, accessories, and area rugs.
Lighten and brighten your spaces with new accessories. Switching some of your artwork with mirrors can help reflect light throughout your space.


-Replace one piece of furniture.
A new side chair or small sofa with modern floral prints or bright colors really enhance a room and change its atmosphere.


Click on the images below for some spring inspiration.

Modern Eclectic

Bohemian

Transitional

Chic Beach

See something you love?

Interior Design Services available by Nicole Milley

716-560-2362 

All furnishings and accessories are available at 

White Orchard Home Furnishings 

203 North Buffalo Street  Orchard Park, NY

716-667-1541   

Simple and Sweet Spring Table Settings

Spring is in the air and today is a celebration of rebirth and renewal. The beauty of the season can be captured with a minimalist approach to the table setting, keeping it simple. Here are a few last minute ideas for decorating your table.

Flowers, whether in a bunch or single stem, these are always a springtime favorite. Simply elegant.

Image Courtesy Real Simple

White dinnerware with green accents, an absolute favorite of mine, and these elements can be found in your back yard. Simple and natural.

Fruit, a perfect way to add some last minute color to your table. Bright, bold...simple.

You might not think of balloons for your table setting, but this is a unique an interesting idea. Light, bright, and simply airy.

Spring gits for family and friends can be used for centerpieces and then given away afterward.

Image Courtesy of TheWeddingDirectory