Wallpaper seems to be making a come back.  The designs are graphic, bold and modern – a world away from those popular in the 80′s.  However, wallpaper can be expensive.  And, in a few years when you’re ready to change the scenery, it’s a major pain in the #&!# to remove. That’s where stencils come in.  Stencils are much easier to apply and can create just as much impact in a room as wallpaper.  Plus, when its time to redecorate, you simply paint over the design and move on.  Simple. 

If stenciled walls evoke images of tacky bathrooms and kitchen borders – think again! Stencils are hot right now.  Lots of people are using them to update their living spaces. I’ve noticed a number of stencilled decor projects popping up all over blogland, so I’d thought I’d share some of the eye candy.

Image sources:    1    |    2    |   3    |   4    |    5   |    6    |    7    |    8

Do you have a favorite? I love them all, but could see using the muted tone-on-tone stencil in the first image in our master bedroom. Could you see using one of these designs in a room in your house?

How cool is this eco-friendly alarm clock?

The clock is powered by water.  Yep, H2O only.  And it also has a thermometer and calendar. You simply add water to the cell to activate, and enjoy free energy to run your clock.  I could see having one of these in each of the guest bedrooms, not to mention the office  and the front rooms.

In addition to being good for the planet and pleasing on the eye, it’s a steal at only £14.99 GBP (approx. $25 USD).  Want one (or five)? Check ’em out here!

I’ve been spending a lot of time with my mum here in the UK. That means I have been going shopping.  A lot.  And after visiting every single shop within a 100-mile radius from her home in Chepstow, I am starting to get a feel for the current shopping trends.  One thing I’ve noticed is that black and white seems to be “in”. The ol’ monochrome is cool. Wicked. Sweet.  Bangin’.  Slammin’. Totally dizzy makin’.

A quick googley of black and white decor brought up many inspiration photos, like this one courtesy of Laura Ashley:

The great thing about black and white decor is that it is an easy way to make your home look sophisticated, elegant and let’s not forget dramatic. It is versatile and can be the backdrop to a variety of styles and accent colors. The stark contrast and sleek lines make the room seem more orderly and clean, not to mention giving it an modern edge.

If you’re concerned about making too bold a statement with solely black and white decor, try incorporating an accent color: a photo on the wall, a pillow case or a few small accessories.  Another design tip to bear in mind when using a monochrome scheme – only use one or two items that are both black AND white. Have some pieces be only one color to avoid making the room look too busy.

Check out some of these fab black and white finds:

1. Graham & Brown Deauville Linen Canvas Art ($119), 2. Salton table lamp ($159.99)  3. Normann Swing vases (from £15), 4. Sophia wallpaper in Charcoal ($74.99), 5. Asterisk clock by George Nelson ($300), 6. Alberto Mantilla salt & pepper shakers ($30), 7. Coach House leisure chair (£366), 8. Modern Dose flower mirror ($615).

Do you have a favorite? Personally, I love that floral mirror and the chair/footstool, but they are way beyond my budget.  What is it they say? Champagne taste on a beer budget. Yep, that’s me.