Home Decor Trends, Tips and Decorating Ideas Blog

Collegiate Entertaining with Style

This morning after getting my daughter on her school bus at 6:45 A.M. I had time to go back home for a few minutes of "me time".  Well that me time lasted about two seconds since the dishwasher needed unloaded and my kitchen counter top looked like a war zone since I had to pack her school lunch with what she wanted.  While I was cleaning my kitchen it hit me all of a sudden that college football would soon be in full swing and if I wanted to have friends over I'd have to use my "same ole" serving pieces for chips and other appetizers which is not how I would want to have a party!!

Living in Alabama, you are either an Alabama fan or Auburn fan... nothing else matters.  I have to confess I don't watch much football and I admit I don't have a favorite Alabama team or any other college favorite, although since I graduated from the University of Maryland the "Terps" would  be my number 1 choice. 

I guess I'll get an Alabama chip and dip bowl to have when friends come over during the football season and maybe a few other collegiate pieces like a trivet or a pilsner glass and mix it up with some everyday kitchen decor and serving pieces.

If you're planning to throw a college football party "wow" your guests by serving them your favorite dips and appetizers in collegiate serving bowls or better yet throw a party where everyone brings a dish and just transfer that to your college serving bowls.  Collegiate serving pieces also make great gifts and can be used for any occasion...not just football parties.  Have fun & enjoy!!

Kitchen Islands for Added Work Space

Create More Usable Workspace in your Kitchen

A question we get a lot from clients is how to create more workspace in their kitchens without it affecting the overall look of their kitchen. 

Many kitchens today have an open feel overlooking the family room or living room  which is great for keeping an eye on your family or carrying on conversations but it also creates a challenge for more workspace.  Kitchen Butlers or Islands are a great way to instantly add  extra workspace and for storing kitchen essentials.  There is a wide variety of styles and designs to choose from making it easy to find one that will coordinate with your current kitchen decor.   Some of the kitchen islands also have wood butcher block tops and wine bottle holders...just add a bar stool or two and you've got yourself a multi-functional kitchen island and gathering table (perfect if you do not have an eat-in area in your kitchen and would like a place to sit and drink your morning coffee.  Depending upon your needs, kitchen islands are available with casters to easily move from place to place while other islands have the look and feel of custom cabinetry with plenty of open and hidden storage. 

The Black Butcher Block Kitchen Island (shown) is a great choice for any kitchen with it's black and natural wood colors giving it a more contemporary look.  Priced at just under $600.00 this kitchen island measures 48" L making it a good choice for smaller kitchens and apartments.  A unique kitchen island is the Rustic Light Walnut Kitchen Island, measures 34.5" L and is also priced just under $600.00, a great addition considering this island features a butcher block top, turned legs and a hammered metal shelf for hanging kitchen utensils.  Looking for something smaller?  A popular choice is the 26" Color Story Island due to its functional butcher block top and smaller size...priced at just under $300.00 makes it great for college apartments or any kitchen with limited space.

If you've been wanting more workspace for your kitchen or simply want a focal point or extra seating in your kitchen an island is a great option. 

Have questions?  Need suggestions?  Post a comment and I'll answer shortly.