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Guest Post: The “Value” of a Vignette

September 6, 2012

Cheryl

It’s been said many times before that design is in the details. In my opinion, nothing has ever been truer. Have you ever noticed how the spaces in magazines and on design shows look so perfect?

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I’m convinced that one of the major elements in creating a picture perfect space is the details. It’s those vignettes, the happy little moments in the space that give a room its designer look.

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And don’t believe everything you hear or read, lest you be fooled into believing that the “designer” look can only be achieved on a “designer” budget. Those vignettes are valuable in creating a beautiful space, but they can also easily be created on a value kind of budget with items from your local Goodwill. Let’s take a look at the basic components of a charming vignette.

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1. Lighting

Lamps are a great way to add form and function to an area.  Whether it’s bedside, at an entry or nestled in a corner, lighting is a must.  Goodwill has a great selection typically priced below $10.00.  And with so many retro looks in style now, a quick DIY project and it’s a win-win.

Goodwill lamp options

Goodwill lamps!

2. Vase/flowers

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Whether you opt for blooms or foliage, adding a natural element is key.  The selection of glass and ceramic vases at Goodwill is endless and many of the options are less than $1 or $2.00.

Goodwill lamp options!

3.  Hardback Books

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Beautiful new or even vintage books can add warmth and they also help to achieve that collected over time look.  They provide the perfect foundation for perching a favorite collectible or unique item in your vignette.  Not a big reader?  Never fear.  Goodwill has hundreds.

Rows of books at all Goodwill locations!

4.  Art/Mirror

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Mirrors provide a reflective surface to capture light in a not so bright area or to simply reflect a pleasing view and art adds character and personality.  No matter which you choose; both artwork and mirrors can help to anchor your vignette. Although the selection varies from day to day, Goodwill offers a myriad of options at unbeatable prices.

Always a good idea to look for art at Goodwill

5. Baskets (optional)

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While they are definitely optional based on your style, baskets add texture and yet another layer to your vignette.  Not sure if they’ll work in your space?  At Goodwill prices, it’s certainly worth a try.

Goodwill baskets are a steal!

So let’s see, that’s:

Retro lamp ……………………………….$ 5.99
Vase for botanicals ……………………$ 0.99
Vintage books…………………………….$ 6.00
Framed art……………………………….$12.00
Storage Basket…………………………..$ 4.99
Value-priced vignette…………………PRICELESS


Please join us in welcoming today’s guest blogger, Cheryl! She owns Dwell by Cheryl interiors and is currently studying interior design in Charlotte, NC. We hope to continue learning from her keen designer eye. Thank you, Cheryl!

4 Comments leave one →
  1. September 6, 2012 10:35 am

    Great post Cheryl! I love reading your design tricks! Such good taste. 🙂

  2. September 6, 2012 10:49 am

    Thanks so much Jennifer! Glad to support Goodwill.

  3. Felice Kelly Gillum permalink
    September 7, 2012 7:31 am

    This is great Cheryl! Thanks so much for blogging for Goodwill. They do so many great things for the community. I love the store as well and have enjoyed your perspective on putting items from Goodwill together. What a great article!

  4. September 8, 2012 3:59 pm

    Thanks so much Felice.

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