This is the table in our entry way. It is the first thing that you see when you come in the door. Beyond it you can see the living room and the big picture window looking down towards the creek. The view is pretty spectacular so I have to create something eye catching in way of a tablescape otherwise people just drift in saying ooohh and head over to the window to look outside.
I’ve been struggling with this since I took down all the Christmas decorations. I want something kind of Victorian looking and fresh at the same time. I think of house plants and layering of items when I think Victorian so this is my interpretation. Something about the configuration just isn’t working for me – I’ll keep at it. I have this uncontrollable urge to make things symmetrical. I need to get over that. I think that is what is limiting me.
Since we are in the entry way step on in and look to your right ~ there’s my kitchen. Still need the tiled back splash but it’s almost done. We’re kind of like the Winchester Mystery remodellers – we don’t ever want to finish in case we get haunted or something:
And finally – this is too humiliating – even more so then the embarrassing very collectible, highly sought after sewing machine. This is the view to the left when you come in:
Yes – that is a Christmas tree. Still up. I’ve taken the decorations off of it but somehow we haven’t managed to get it taken apart and put back in its box and up into the attic. In my defense the thing is heavy – really heavy and I can’t manage it myself. I keep meaning to get Rick to help me but then the day just gets away from me.
And the thing is much more pathetic looking when it’s unplugged so I keep turning the lights on. I should just hang some Easter eggs on it and leave it up until April.
I once left my christmas tree up for a whole year (with changes in decor) for no other reason than that I was young, living alone, and it made me smile, so I can’t guffaw at your tree now. If you don’t take it down, why not turn it into a Valentine’s Tree?
As for the tablescape, maybe you could try grouping things in three’s – my partner just finished his program in interior design, and one of the things that I learned (besides the importance of paint and light) is that trios are more pleasing to the eye and more dynamic. Perhaps three framed photos in different sizes?
Your counters are so empty and beautiful. Ours are almost never empty. I’m all about decorating with bell jars/cloches right now. Sometimes on their own and sometimes on a cake pedestal.
I have left a tree up all year at times with new decorations for each holiday. Do what you want on that, for sure! Your home is so light and pretty and inspiring and CLEAN!!! I love to look at it. I’d put your little angel up higher on some books or a wrapped box… She’s just adorable! Your entryway is beuatiful, too… Symmetry and balance are very comforting.
Okay I should probably address the cleanliness – about 20 seconds before these pictures were taken I swept up an entire dogsize mound of beagle hair (I mean, really – how can that dog not be bald?) and I rid the counters of about two weeks worth of junkmail and a new drill press (don’t ask). So, yeah ~ pictures lie. Or at least they don’t always tell the entire truth.
Thank you for the suggestions on the table – I’m going to try mixing things up a bit more. Add a few more things.
I am so relieved I’m not the only that has left a Christmas tree up past its expiration date….
I think the table looks great. I am a girl who needs a little symetry too. I think you might be happier if the items on the outside were a little taller. I think the 3 major items being about the same height is probably what’s bothering you. I love your kitchen. Can we see more? Jen
Your hardwood floors are so beautiful and I love that chandelier in the entry. Very pretty!
Looks lovely, Andrea. I knew it would.