Keeping it simple 

When my husband and I bought our previous home we were looking for something that was mostly move in ready.  But what we got was a house that needed a full costmetic makeover and an unfinished basement.  I believe my words were “that’s ok, my mom will help”, but what I really selfishly meant was “oh this will be a fun project for my mom and I”.  I remember seeing my moms jaw drop open as she looked at the massive amount of work.  I said “it’s only cosmetic mom, we can do this”.  “We she said” and laughed out loud.  But I was prepared to roll up the sleeves and get stuck in.  The house was gorgeous but the style just wasn’t our taste.  All we had to do was transform it from busy to clean and simple.  
Here’s a first look at one of the rooms that were transformed:

From busy overcrowded dining room:

No that’s not wall paper, it was paint.  Very high quality and well done, just not our style.  This was a beautiful room, it just felt overcrowded to me.

What we did:

• Repainted it a warm grey colour (about 4 coats to cover the walls) luckily we had a rebate at Home Depot (30% off).
• Reused curtains from the office room, and removed the frills at the top and had a seamstress add rings.
• We changed the light fixture (sadly not on the Thrift, we splurged for a beautiful and warm feeling light that gave off an amazing glow when lit).
• Added a simple centre piece which I rotate frequently as we find new ideas on Pintrest.  Look for my upcoming post on DIY centre pieces
• Added one piece of artwork and a mirror which actually made the room look bigger.  We originally had a giant clock on the wall but I prefer a mirror. 
• Voila, from busy to simple, clean and warm.