PRO T I P When it comes to DIY, small accessories are a good place to begin. If you have a planter in your garage that needs a facelift, paint it a coordinating color and give it a new home next to your sophisticated leather loveseat. Small changes make it fun to experiment, without breaking the bank.
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After years of experience in building décor for Anthropologie, creating event displays in Sydney, Australia, and drawing floor plans for a local contractor, this talented Baltimore native has landed happily at the beach. In addition to celebrating the joy and inspiration she’s found here, Liz Ottey shares some tips she learned along the way.
Do: Focus on the things you love. Don’t: Overdo it! As your designer, I want to create a space that is uniquely yours, so it’s important to understand what matters to you. For example, if you love plants, use them as art—but do so sparingly. Don’t overdo it! Too many plants can be junky and make it feel like you’re in a jungle. Unless that’s the look you’re going for, all you need are a few touches of greenery here and there. Another plant/art tip: just because a wall or space is empty, that doesn’t mean you need to fill it up. For me, less is more. Subtle hints of nature are just what you need to warm up a space, especially at the beach.
Do: Buy new pieces. Don’t: Get rid of all your old stuff. New furniture or accessories can be the perfect way to add a focal point to the room or to pull a look together. A vanity light might be just okay on its own, but when it’s paired with a new mirror, artwork, or area rug, the whole space is elevated. With that said, I’m begging you to hang
14 | at home with Schell Brothers
