[tweetmeme]Good design…once reserved for the élite has now become available to the rest of us thanks to HGTV and mass retailers, such as Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, and Target. The furnishings I longed for, but couldn’t afford, are now being interpreted in more pleasing price points. Granted, the quality isn’t as good, but most last long enough until you are ready for a new look. If you are newly married and in your first home, these couture design/budget priced furnishings are the best way to begin decorating your new spaces. It’s your chance to choose a design direction and live with your style choices while you grow and change together in your marriage. As you learn what works best for your family, you can upgrade and invest in custom pieces. The trick to mass market design is to choose pieces from several companies, so you’ll achieve a more personal look. If you buy everything from one place, you’ll find that you feel like you’re living in a catalog.

Here are some things I’d purchase to create a READING NOOK:

I’d start with the Hennessy Chair from Crate and Barrel (www.crateandbarrel.com) in Topaz – It has great lines and would fit into both a traditional and modern space.

I’d already have the Dramatic Damask Rug from Shades of Light (www.shadesoflight.com) on the floor, so I could nestle the chair in a corner on the rug.

Then I’d get the Modern Floor Lantern from West Elm (www.westelm.com) – it looks like it would shine the light on just the right spot, and it’s so sleek and stylish!

I’d add some bling using the Metallic Chinese Garden Stool in silver from Wisteria (www.wisteria.com) as the side table.

Finally, I’d bring in a punch of color in a pillow. These are fun, chic options:

Ballard Designs (www.ballarddesigns.com) – Coral Needlepoint pillow in Coral

Bliss Living Home (www.blisslivinghome.com) – Dahlia Pillow

Williams Sonoma Home (www.wshome.com) – Pineapple Silk Twill Pillow
The Pineapple is the symbol of welcome!

Modern Dose (www.moderndose.com) – Queen Pillow