Focus: My Life Through the Lens

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

In my October Focus I mentioned that I was looking forward to a quiet Thanksgiving. Well...quiet it wasn't, but beautifully noisy it was! ♥ The house was full of family and friends and great food and drink. It was an absolutely splendid evening. 

November brought some much needed routine to our lives. The house began to feel like home and we started making changes to the interior. Work and school schedules became a little more manageable, and I spent moments of sewing, crocheting, reading, and painting, something I have been unable to do for months. November also brought more design work and fine art commissions, the ending of some friendships and the beginning of new ones, and the anticipation and excitement of the holidays.


Quiet moments on the farm.

The Buffalo Design Collaborative's Open House

My little corner at the BDC ♥

My little corner at the BDC ♥

My baby girl's baby shower

Soon to be grandma and daddy

Childhood friends all grown up

Thanksgiving celebration at CSAT (Charter School of Applied Technology)

Moments of our Thanksgiving morning

My mother visited Africa in November and brought Parker this African shirt. He ♥'s it.

Beginning to prepare the table

My father

Small Budget Redesign: Dining Room redone Modern Vintage

nikkiMdesign brings new life to this dated dining room, creating a light and airy, modern vintage space to be enjoyed by the entire family.

Before, the bar height table and chairs were too heavy for the room and could only accommodate six people which made it difficult to entertain a growing family and friends.The stenciled vine looked dated and the room was difficult to navigate.

After. By removing the large table and chairs the room instantly becomes more approachable and inviting. The new table expands to accommodate up to twelve people and its lower profile gives the room a spacious feel. Using a soft white on the walls brightens the dining room and creates an airy atmosphere. Soft yellow on the ceiling and punches of yellow used throughout the room balance the white and bring color to the rooms palette without becoming overwhelming. The vintage modern look is achieved with the style of the refinished 1920s table and re-painted chairs, the framed embroidered artwork and antique mantel mirror, and the use of clear glassware gives the space a light and modern feel. 

Total spent (under budget): $879.25

See something you ♥?

Interior Design Services available by Nicole Milley

716-560-2362
Buffalo, NY

White Orchard Home Furnishings 

4203 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