Definitely Imperfect

I just finished reading Deborah Needleman's The Perfectly Imperfect Home: How to Decorate and Live Well. I enjoyed the book. It's full of illustrations which I found to be an interesting difference from the other decorating books I own. Some of the illustrations are based off of real, inspiring homes.

A few of her tips ended up on my new year's resolutions list. I found that I most enjoyed these five ideas:

1. Employ a bench at the end of the bed. A bench (or stool, or set of ottomans, etc) will become a place to put on shoes or lay clothes. Perfect.

2. Keep side chairs handy for unexpected guests. These chairs can be any style or color, they simply have to be easy to pick up and move around when necessary. I don't have a lot of extra room in my home, but I would like to have one or two more chairs like this to keep up against the living room wall. 

3. Layer tables. Put shorter tables in front of taller tables to create multiple dimensions. I love this idea for next to an armchair, couch, or even putting a small stool in front of a bedside table to stack books upon.

4. Use your imagination when it comes to a coffee table. A coffee table doesn't have to be one big, rectangular table. Try a large, round upholstered ottoman, or maybe two small tables or ottomans side by side. 

5. Create a drink cart. Mix and match interesting pieces on a cart along with a few alcohol bottles. This helps to create an environment that is comfortable and welcoming.