Hey there- and welcome to another installment of Pick My Presto!
This week, I thought I’d play around with a photo of the Drummond family’s “Long Room”.
A couple weeks back Mrs. Drummond, a.k.a Ree, posted some pics of the room on her blog, and talked about their plans to turn it into a room for their daughters.
She and the girls have decided they’re going to do all the makeover work themselves, and I’m so excited for them to be able to collaborate on this special project together!
The (just for fun) drawings I put together for them feature some of the ideas Ree blogged about (hopefully it will help her to sort of see them in the space), and some of her readers ideas (good call on the fun layout, Lauren!), and of course you’ll see a few of my own ideas thrown in there too. (Have I mentioned how much I love goin’ wild with Photoshop?)
Before I got started, I wanted to see little bit about the rest of that lovely home on the range, so I took a gander at some photos of some of the other rooms in their house and guest house…
They all say “contemporary rustic with a traditional twist” to me. Tradustorary? Rustempoditional? Hmmm…how ’bout we just call it Warm and Woodsy with a side of Ranch!
Next, I pulled together some pics of some elements that Ree said she loved in a recent blog post. Dark-stained, cubby-style wood shelving units; a pecan-stained, turned-leg coffee table; and a clean-lined, charcoal gray sofa.
She also said she liked the fabric on the top of this bench, and this wood chandelier…
She listed “mauve, khaki, taupe, pale pink and barley” as some of her favorite hues, and said she’s thinking about using Flor carpet tiles on the floor on top of a wood laminate floor in the room. Here’s the inspiration pic she posted on her blog which sort of shows the look (not necessarily the colors) she’s thinking about…
Oh, and she loved the layout in this photo from Coastal Living magazine too…
So it looks to me like she’s into lots of texture; warm, earthy and sunset-toned colors; and woods that are on the warmer side too. Sweet!
I sent her a tweet asking her what kinds of things her girls were into before I hit the e-drawing board, and this was her tweesponse:
“My girls aren’t picky. It doesn’t need to be overtly girly, either. They’re easy!”
So I took my cues from colors that might be named things like Sheeps Wool, Prairie Peach, Worn Coral, Crushed Lavender, Tattered Twine, Cloudy Gray, Sunset Pink, Rustic Red, Wild Watermelon and Honeysuckle- and went to town creating some inspiration drawings.
For Drawing #1- I coated the walls in a “sheeps wool” color. An dark off-white that’s a little on the dusty side, so that the bright white furniture and trim would pop. One that would add a bit of contemporary flair, and that would be a little edgier than beige and friendlier than gray.
(Move your cursor on and off of the photo below to see the interactive version of the drawing. PS- Google Readers have to click over to our site to view this one!)
(Note: My drawing is for inspirational purposes only, and the ideas shown in it are just that. Spontaneous, totally flexible, just-for-fun, ideas. I didn’t include lighting, ceiling fans, and many other things that would obviously be necessary in the room. This is just about palette and pattern and throwing ideas around. And since this is a just-for-fun-photo-consultation, and not an actual-and-perfectly-to-scale-virtual-consultation, I have no idea if any of the furniture, ideas or accessories I used in the drawing would actually work in the room. Boom.)
After the walls were painted, I popped some wallpaper on both of the long walls. Again, this is just an idea, and you could go with a million different papers or even wall stencils if you like the idea, but when I saw Amy Butler’s contemporary take on a vintage floral pattern I was like, “Whoa. That kinda reminds me of the cover of Ree’s book.” Check it out, here’s the wallpaper:
And here’s Ree’s book…
Pretty cool, huh? The wallpaper I used in the drawing is called “Momento”. The description on the Graham & Brown site reads, “Momento is a wonderfully warm pop bouquet pulled from the fond memories of the happy floral designs Amy grew up with. This nod to flower nostalgia is made modern with its bold scale and fresh color.”
The wording made me smile, so I thought I’d include it in this post so that you would smile too! It runs $85 per roll, but if you’re just doing a couple of walls, it might just be worth the splurge! (?)
You’ll notice I also popped in a wood laminate floor and some Flor tiles so Ree could get a look at how that all might sort of come together.
And, of course, I had to throw in those awesome built-in beds too. Love those things!
A white-washed wood planked ceiling, barn-style closet doors (stained a luscious pecan color- mmmm!), a wall-full of white painted desks (maybe it’s just three white file cabinets, topped with a long table top?) and two, mismatched desk chairs complete the look.
I didn’t include them in the drawing, but on the wall above the desks I’d probably use some kind of organization boards, like these from Pottery Barn…
And a mirror would look mighty fine up there too. (Note: I didn’t show the organizers or a mirror in the drawing because they looked too tiny and blurry when I popped them in there and it was hard to even tell what they were.)
Here are some of the elements I pulled from around the weird wide web for the rest of Drawing #1:
(Wallpaper- GrahamBrown.com; “Shine” pillow, Desk, Striped Duvet, White Desk Chair- PBTeen.com; Rattan Desk Chair, Wood Trunk, and Jute-trimmed Pillow- PotteryBarn.com)
And while I was at it, I actually put together a few more drawings, that all feature slightly different ideas…
Drawing #2…a polka-dotted duvet…
Drawing #3…a couple wild watermelon walls and an indoor/outdoor rug…
Drawing 4…wild watermelon colored walls, an indoor/outdoor rug and a faux cow skin rug!
And because I remembered Ree mentioned possibly wanting to paint the walls a few different colors, I put together Drawing #5, which features a couple of sunset pink walls and a tiny slice of watermelon on the side!
I literally could have kept going and going and going (have I mentioned I’m obsessed with fiddlin’ around in Photoshop?) but my drawing hand eventually “suggested” I call it a day.
Anywho, before I sign off I also just wanted to take a sec to chime in on a few decorating-related questions Ree posted on her blog the other day. She asked,
“Where’s the best place to start? There are so many decisions to make. Wall color. Wall COLORS. Flooring choices. Flooring colors. What furniture to use. What furniture to refinish/repaint. Etc. Etc. Etc. Do you designers/design enthusiasts always start with the color scheme/painting plan? Or do you start with room/furniture arrangement? Or do you start with the floor/rug color you want first, and let everything build around that?”
Me personally, I always, always, always start with space planning. I think it’s the most important step to getting a room to function and feel comfortable. Back in the “old days”, I used to just buy furniture because I liked the way it looked, only to find out it totally didn’t work or fit into the room when I got it home. Not good. These days, I always work up a space plan first so that I know exactly how many pieces of furniture I’ll need and what size they need to be before I buy them!
Next, I move onto my “soft goods”. For instance, in this room, I’d start by picking out the bedding, because it tends to be the hardest thing (for me) to make a decision on. After that, I’d build the Flor rug around some of the colors in the bedding. And when that’s all nailed down, it would be easy to pick out the perfect wall color(s) by looking at paint samples up against the fabric and rug choices. Last but not least, I’d finish by choosing/building the furniture and accessories. That way, if something works shape/size/functionality-wise, but it’s not the right color, it’ll be easy breezy to paint it out in a color that coordinates with the new palette!
That being said, there are no set-in-stone rules, and what works for one person, may not work for another. The main thing is to have fun…by following your own instincts and creating a place that celebrates and echos who you and your family are!
Wanna submit a photo for our Pick My Presto series?
Send an email to LaylaPalmer [at] aol [dot] com titled, “PICK MY PRESTO- Living Room“. (Replace the words Living Room with whatever type of room you’re actually submitting.) In the body of the email, include your name, your blog name (if you have one) your design likes & dislikes, and one photo of the space in question. (No links please.) It should be clear, and measure at least 400 pixels high x 600 pixels wide. (In other words: at least 4″high x 6″ wide) The bigger the better though! Make sure it’s a photo you’re comfortable with us showing and writing about on our blog. Then, whenever I’m feelin’ the urge, I’ll randomly select someone’s email and have a little fun creating some traditional or cottage style presto change-o inspiration. Oh, and since I love surprises, I probably won’t email you to let you know I’ve “picked your presto” unless I have a specific question for ya about your space.
Love, Love, Love this room! I have a perfect Pick my Presto contendee…maybe I’ll be brave enough and send it in!
Loves from Utah 🙂
I love this series! Great ideas for the girls room too. I would totally love to be one of those girls.
Thanks so much for stopping by and signing up to be my 500th follower today. It totally made my day!
Love your designs and your blog, keep it coming.
Rose
I would love some Photoshop tutorials.
I get so frustrated that I always revert to something that is easier with not as many features.
I love how you have such vision! I would spend forever trying to come up with something not even half as inspired and adorable! I love the way you have the beds on the side too. Looks like something similar I saw by Urban Grace Interiors. LOVE IT. 🙂
Layla and Kev! Great job on this space! I love love love your blog, home and style! I would love for you to pick my presto! I have been trying to get help from everywhere and I havent had any luck! I have tried emailing you guys and pottery barn several times…. It would make an amazing birthday gift! My birthday is this coming monday!!!! Just saying! Lol!
As soon as PW put up that picture of “The Long Room” I imagined you doing a Pic My Presto of it. I couldn’t help but laugh my butt off when I checked your blog today!!! 🙂
I love both of Ree’s houses and I can not wait to see how the finished room looks!!
So many beautiful photos here! But I’d have to say I really like those organization boards. Thinking of putting up something similar to it in my work area. 🙂
You rock.
I love the last one the best — watermelon shades just seem at home on a ranch!
Love all the pics but especially the one with the different color walls! Pick my presto is so fun to read!
I love Drawing #2 the best. The color scheme is so fun and flirty. Great job, Layla. You are so talented.
Weird wide web? Hahaha! I’ve no idea why that struck me as funny as it did, but you’re a hoot! The built in beds are perfect in the long narrow room. I imagine they’d provide a sense of privacy also, for those times when one wants to be alone. Love it!
IKEA carries a curtain track system that would be just right to allow the girls to close the curtains for privacy. Another beautiful room. You and Ree together equals fun.
What gorgeous room inspirations! I love the functional and texture-rich indoor/outdoor rug paired with fun wallpaper. A little tough, a little sweet. Just like Ree’s girls! Also, built-in captain beds would be sensational.
I swear we should be real life friends. I love the stuff you pick out!
So much talent in one place! Love all your ideas!
Hi,
I finally got a chance to hop over here and see what Ree was talking about! So Amazing!!! I LOVE #3 with the indoor outdoor rug and watermelon wall. This is so young and yet perfect for those girls to transition to older teens. Love it! Nice job. You’re very talented!
I landed here from Ree’s blog. Love the ideas and know she will be thrilled with the room when it all comes together. You realize that the boys will want a special do-over after the girls, don’t you?
Beckie in Brentwood, TN
Where did you find that dry erase board calendar????????????!!!!!!!!!!
My parents have a room like this in their mountain house. I’ve always dreamed of putting some beds like this in the deep corners of the sloping roof. Thanks for the inspirations.
love drawing #5, a little bit of paint, a little bit of wallpaper; and I prefer the polka dot coverlet rather than the stripe. Not digging the faux cowskin rug – eww! A screen between the desks for privacy, maybe? How about some hanging mini-chandeliers? I think Pottery Barn teen has some cute ones in diff colors … thanks for sharing!!!
Oh lord do I need help in the Living Room dept. We have a 100 yr old home but the LR is very long and narrow with a double sliding door and a single slide on one side, front door and large windows on opposite wall, fireplace with built in bookcases on 3rd wall and large, large windows on fourth wall. We have lived in our home for 11 years and with moving furniture around, in, and out I am so lost that we just don’t use this room anymore. Cannot get comfortable in this space. Has gorgeous inlaid narrow oak floors. Love the house, hate the LR.
Sorry, I forget to tell you that I love the first look you did for PW, Not much for cowhide on floor but love built in’s with the drawers under. These are my colors.
Love #3. I just “pinned” some beds like that today for our girls room 🙂
I love your pick my presto’s with all of heart and gizzards! You are so inspiring, the ideas are lots of fun and seeing the endless possibilities makes me want more everytime! I cant wait for the show! i hope you and Kevin can get your talently blessed hands in on the “long room” action. I found your blog through Rees
‘s blog-ya’all would be a great team! im lusting the tri colored walls! I forsee Ree hanging out in the girls’ room when she needs a refresh. a relaxing moment c; I appreciate your “Where to start” tips, Thanks Princess Layla! Have a safe trip, i look forward to learning all about it!
Thank you Melanie! We’re excited to visit the ranch and hear about Ree and the girls plans for the room! 😀
These are beautiful! I would love to see #5 with the striped duvet and natural rug! (my 2 cents)
Layla…..wow! Thanks for the inspiration once again! I learn so much from you. Our first two boys are adopted ! I public speak on the blessings of adoption. Best to you and your cute family!
I think Rees girls are going to love this new room, great job.
I popped over from Pioneer Woman and all I can say is wow! Layla, I love your designs for Ree and the girls! I love your site, too…I’ll be back again.
You are such an inspiration!! First time on your website, I am undone!!
Love this room idea! That Amy Butler wallpaper is fabulous!! You have an amazing talent, my dear!
Love your ideas. They are brilliant!
Love the collaboration of inspirations and the variations. It would be interesting to see a shelving unit included in the wall that separates the two beds. The shelves could be open on both sides similar to the cubby unit shown above or not or a variety! As a lifetime before-sleep reader, a shelf near my bed has always been necessary. Great work 🙂
One of my favorite DIY pieces in my house is a set of 3 painted windmill blades that are perfect for notes, pictures, etc. to be posted on. My grandfather found them for me in a junk heap at the farm.
Layla- such fun!!
Hope you guys have a great time at the ranch- can’t wait to see what Ree and the girls end up with- your genius has surely given them such inspiration!!
hugs-
Carolyn
I love it! We tend to go as pink as possible around here so its nice to see a girl’s room NOT using the traditional colors!
I don’t mean to be redundant, but you are amazing! I followed along with Ree, her thinking process and all the input from her friends and followers. I even added my 2 cents. YOU, my dear, somehow soaked it all in, tossed out the unworkable and embraced the best ideas along with the essence of Ree and her girls… then you added your own flair and inspiration. That wallpaper is absolutely perfect. If they don’t use it, I will be scratching my head… I mean, it looks like it was designed for the Drummonds… And, you found it! I have not been a regular follower of yours but I will be coming around everyday from now on! You inspire me.
Wow! I love this! (love this font too by the way!) I wish I had a room like this growing up! 🙂
Beautiful ideas, Layla! So fun! I’m excited to see the transformation! 😉
I love the brown leather chairs shown in the picture where you mention the shelving. Where are these from? I have been looking and looking!
Love your site!
Pottery Barn! 🙂
Love the room. Wallpaper is really nice. Maybe each should have a padded type board with ribbons to put special pictures/keepsakes too. Awesome!!
For the organizational boards, check this out! The idea is for bow holders, but I am going to use them in my daughter’s room as photo boards.
http://norestforthecreative.blogspot.com/ri2011/07/fabric-hoop-bow-holders.html
This is not my site, but rather a seamstress that I follow on Facebook, Leah Ashley. She does exceptional custom bedding in the Oklahoma City area.
So cute! We live on a ranch in Osage County near Ree, and our house is decorated much like hers. These will fit in nicely–the wooden embroidery hoops have a great nostalgic feel to them.
I had suggested some nice jewel tones on the walls so I love the watermelon because it pushes her color use a little more than usual.
What I think would be nice on the wall between the girls is on overhead light for each so they could lay in bed and read or do whatever without disturbing the other.
IKEA has some great lighting fixtures and they have a lovely small chandelier that would work nicely in the space. Plus I am willing to bet that you could create that same desk concept with some of their pieces since they are more on the modular side. Something to consider!
Great work and beautiful ideas.
Wow!! I love every single one of these photos! So much inspiration in one place! I have been following your blog for quite some time & just want to say that LOVE all your ideas!! Thanks for sharing your creativity! 🙂 xo, Reannah
LOVE this design! BUT one thing I love more than other is that wall-magazine rack!!! WHERE DID YOU GET THAT??? I find it BRILLIANT for schoolbooks,magazines and well everything.. Could u please let me know, as I’m doing up my daughter’s room (my 17 yr old,well almost 18! and I think this rack would be perfect in her room)
Hey Linda! Thank you so much! I actually included a link to the source right above the photo, so feel free to click on through! I love those suckers too! 😀
Oh! It makes me want to make a quilt for each one of the girls to give them a warm ending to their fun days in the new space!
Is a pattern available for purchase for the bed?
Hi,
First, I adore you guys! You’re work is so fab and I love that you work together so well.
Second, do you know where that wood chandelier is from? Im sure it’s out of my price range but its perfect for my dining space.
Thanks!
B
Warm and Woodsy with a side of Ranch – Love this phrase. And for the girls room? I’d go with Drawing #5.
IMHO, I wanted you to know that your design/color selection/storage bed space was faarrrrrrrr and away better for the Drummond home than what was used. Again, IMHO!! Loved what you did sooo much better than what they got.