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Price My Space...It's a Party at Nesting Place!
Between Naps on the Porch: Price My Space...It's a Party at Nesting Place!

Between Naps on the Porch

Between Naps on the Porch is a lifestyle blog with an emphasis on Decorating, Tablescaping, Before and Afters, Thrify Finds, and Gardening.

Jul 12, 2009

Price My Space...It's a Party at Nesting Place!

Welcome to my Guest room. I'm joining in the fun blog party at Nesting Place! Once you get done "pricing my space", you'll want to pop back over to Nesting Place to check out all the other great spaces posted for today's party.


Whenever I buy something new for a room in my home, I normally toss the receipt into a file folder I keep for each room...that really came in handy tonight when I prepared this post. My guest room was one of the first rooms I ever "decorated" in my home. I love blue and white together so when I found this Ralph Lauren comforter set called "Porcelain," I decided to go with a blue and white theme. I had a tree behind the bed for many years and just recently took it out for a change.


Found the vintage iron and brass bed in a local antique mall for only $250.

When I was working on this room, I knew I wanted to mix it up a bit. I fell in love with this floral Sanderson fabric and had balloon valances, pillows and a table topper made. I love the way the Sanderson fabric looks with the "Porcelain" R.L. fabric. I had the wall color custom matched to the yellow in the Sanderson fabric. The year was 1994 and the Sanderson fabric was a bit of a splurge for me. I paid $283 each for the balloon valances...$566 for both, which included fabric and labor. The topper and tablecloth on the table beside the bed were $150 and the two ruffled pillows, were $116 for both. That was a lot to spend, to me, especially since I'd never had anything custom made...now it seems pretty cheap compared to today's prices for custom made pieces. Good thing is they still look as nice today as the day I got them.

What better way to pamper your guest...breakfast in bed! Can you see the lit "tea cup" candle? The wicker tray was just $12 in a local antique/thrift store

Had a little "kitty" pillow made out of the Sanderson fabric. If you look closely, you'll see that the floral pillows are edged in the same wavy, blue and white striped fabric that you see in the table skirt. Charles Faudree says it's about the mix...not the match. Could I possibly fit one more fabric into this room? (LOL) :-)

The white matelasse coverlet keeps things from getting too busy.

A little bedside reading...

I looked for years and years and years for a dress form. Each time I'd find one, it would either be in terrible condition or priced over $300. One day, while out antiquing, I saw the form below. Ohhhhhhh, did I get excited...it was EXACTLY what I'd been looking for all these many years!

I couldn't find a price tag on it anywhere. I walked to the front of the store and asked the ladies behind the check-out counter for a price. They couldn't find one either and told me it was "NSF" (not for sale). So often when I had found dress forms in the past, they were often marked NSF and usually in use by the store keeper to display clothing, etc... Since it didn't actually have a sticker on it saying NSF, I persisted. I asked the ladies if they would call the seller for that particular booth, and ask to make sure. (I reallllly wanted that dress form.)

One of the ladies reluctantly called and as she was talking to the owner of the form, her eyes grew large. She couldn't believe it...the owner was willing to sell it and for only $95. I jumped for joy! The other lady behind the counter began to have herself a regular hissy fit, saying she would have bought it for herself if she had known it was for sale. Both ladies went on and on about how they had no idea it was for sale, and what a steal I was getting, and how THEY wanted it. I couldn't write my check fast enough...I was so worried the owner would call back and say she had changed her mind!
This blouse was my Mom's and is almost 60 years old, now. Couldn't get a great close-up, but the color is actually like you see in the pic above. As you might imagine, it's priceless. :-)




Found this Victorian hat rack for $40 while out antiquing...three of the hats shown hanging on the rack are vintage. The trunk was the first "old" thing I ever bought...got it at an auction about 28 years ago for $35. The handles on the side are still intact, which I've discovered over the years is pretty rare on the older trunks.

While out antiquing one December, I found the wonderful old doll house shown above and below. It was already decorated for Christmas and it stole my heart. But the price was a bit high at $225...so I walked away.

After Christmas, I went out of town to visit a friend in Virginia. We were out touring Mount Vernon one afternoon and I kept thinking and thinking about this doll house...suddenly I knew I had to have it! Has that ever happened to you?

I panicked...what if it had been sold while I was out of town?! I called the antique store and they said it was gone. :-( I asked if they would make sure...hoping it had just been moved since Christmas was over. About an hour later, while standing just outside Mount Vernon, they called me back on my cell to tell me it was still available and that the owner had just taken it home after Christmas. The seller gave me 10% off...which made me feel a bit better about the price. :-) Sometimes your heart just says, go for it...and you know at that moment, you'll never regret it.

I picked it up as soon as I got back into town. The decorations that were on the house were very, very faded and literally falling apart. So I bought some garland and ribbon and made wreaths with bows for each of the windows. The details on this house amaze me...down to the individual bricks of the chimney.
Years before I stumbled across the doll house, I found this dresser in the same antique shop. Per the shop owner, someone had bought the matching bed but left this beautiful dresser behind. I'm so glad they did!

I love its graceful curves. It is probably the most expensive piece in the room...I paid $700 for it. The seller let me put it on lay-a-way, so to speak and I paid for it in 3 payments. If you are out antiquing and you see that piece that you just adore but can't quite afford, ask the shop owner if they'll let you pay in 2 or 3 payments. In today's economy, I think they are just happy to get your business and most often will take you up on your offer. They usually will not discount the piece if they allow you pay in several payments, but sometimes it's worth it to get that one piece you know will make the room.

I'm in awe of the craftsmanship it took to make the curving drawers and doors on this piece.

This silver plate shaving stand is another antiquing find many, years ago...priced at $45. I sometimes fill it with potpourri.

Max supervised as I took pics of the guest room this afternoon. :-)

Here's a cozy spot for guest to curl up with a good book. The next pic better shows the blue and white checked fabric. Found this chair with it's matching ottoman about 15 years ago in the back of a large antique store that only opened it's doors to the public once a month. The store has since closed.

You've heard about the Running of the Brides? Well, that's what it was like that one Saturday each month when the store would open...insanity! I didn't find anything in the front part of the store but this chair and ottoman was tucked into a corner in another room way in back. I was thrilled to find it was just $389 for both the chair and the ottoman! The ottoman is visible in the pic above...under Mr. Max. :-)

Found this little bunny at A Classy Flea...he's made by the company that makes Boyds Bears. Even his little bow tie coordinated with the room...yes, I notice that stuff...it's a sickness! (LOL)

So, that's the Guest Room....thanks so much for stopping by! Looking forward to seeing your beautiful rooms posted for Price My Space at Nesting Place! :-)

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44 Comments:

At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger Amanda @ Serenity Now said...

I am in love with the dress form, the blouse, and the dollhouse. I love dollhouses...must be why my girls have two of them. ;) Visiting from The Nester's party. :)

 
At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger Susan@The Cozy Chickadee said...

I love it all! The dress form story was too funny! I find people that work in Antique stores act like they don't get out much, and are just snippy!
Your kitty is too cute, also!

 
At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger Julia @ Hooked on Houses said...

What a pretty room, Susan. Looks like it belongs in a B&B!

I love how seriously Max seems to be taking his supervising duties. :-)

 
At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger Bill said...

Hi Susan,
It's difficult to comprehend that this guest room was decorated around 15 years ago (plus or minus a few "tweaks")! It looks fresh, romantic, timeless, and very inviting.

Displaying your mother's beautiful blouse on the dress form is the perfect finishing touch! I wonder if she was the inspriration for many of the wonderful creative things you do and share with your lucky readers ...

Bill @ Affordable Accoutrements

 
At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger Patricia said...

Hi Susan!

I will be over on Wednesday to stay in your guest room LOL

It is like a glorious B&B!
I love the color combination and the coziness and the fact that it was all done on a budget, using what you love is the best part!

 
At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger KBeau said...

Your guest room is beautiful and timeless. But I can't believe you remember how much you paid for everything, especially things you bought in 1994. I'm impressed.

 
At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger imjacobsmom said...

You're lucky you got out of that store with the dress form! That was an excellent price for that model! ~ Robyn

 
At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger blushing rose said...

What a lovely respite from the world ... beautifully done. TTFN ~Marydon

 
At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger Marty@A Stroll Thru Life said...

Your guest bedroom is just stunning. I love all of it. So pretty. Hugs, Marty

 
At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger southerninspiration said...

I have looked for a dress form just like that for a long time myself...you lucky, lucky girl. Your guest room is fabulous......so warm and inviting!

Suzanne

 
At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger Melissa Miller said...

Oh I adore this stunning guest room Susan! Escpecially Max the sweetie. :)

 
At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger Gwen said...

What an inviting guest room. There are so many pieces that caught my eye. That dresser/vanity, the trunk, the dress form, all beautiful.

I have been collecting trunks since I was a kid and you are right about the straps. They are hard to find in good condition.

Hi Max!

 
At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger Anita@Theycallmejammi said...

Your guest room is gorgeous...do you have a vacancy?

 
At Sunday, July 12, 2009 , Blogger Melissa Stover said...

what a pretty room! that doll house is so cute.

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Mimi Sue said...

I'm so glad I came over to visit. Your home is gorgeous. Love all you did with your welcoming guest room. So bright and cheery. I'll be back. Mimi

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Connie said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Connie said...

Hi Susan, That is one adorable room. So cosy and I love your color combinations.
You certainly have the eye for color.
Nice tour!

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Martha said...

Your guest room is really pretty and I love how you use the different patterns.

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Margaret's Ramblings said...

What a beautiful room you have created. It looks so inviting.

Margaret

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Unknown said...

Susan,
Beautiful room, your attention to detail is amazing.
Sandy

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Anonymous Betty said...

Beautiful room and I love the ficus(?) behind the bed. Can I assume you added the hanging silk blossoms? It adds so much style to an articial tree. I'd have to have purple lilac or wisteria blooms on mine..can you tell they are among my favorite flowers and color? I grew up with nothing but used iron beds but nothing that fancy. I'm sure they didn't cost very much because all Mama's furniture was purchased second hand. I didn't know what new furniture was until I got married. This is beautiful..how are the frames attached? Do you have a mattress and foundation under it? Did the chair and ottman come in that good condition and color of fabric or did you have it reupholstered? Like your wall color; the yellow or buttercream makes it look so cheery. I'd be afraid somebody would trip and fall on the ottman though. I would be afraid a guest might get too comfortable in this beautiful room and not want to leave!

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Anonymous Betty said...

That doll house is so pretty. I'd be willing to pay that much for it; think of the possibilities for outside decorations on the windows. I'm sure you could order or buy other type of wreaths to fit the different seasons, not just for Christmas. Now this bed is "dressed" so beautiful. A logical question for you. What do guest do with all the extra layers of bedding and pillows when they want to go to bed? Or do you "undress" it for them before they turn in?

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger ksarra said...

Hi Susan, this is one of my VERY favorite rooms of all time. Every little detail is so well thought out, and the look is timeless.

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Suzann said...

I have always loved this room of yours and so I'm doubly pleased to be given another tour!!

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Dana and Daisy said...

It's beautiful and if I ever stay with you, could your kitty sleep with me? I wouldn't mind a bit as long as he is not one of those pillow hogging kitties.

Now don't be jealous, but I live in Charles Faudree's hometown.

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Leslie said...

love the kitty!

Please check out my blog if you have a minute.

We're helping Natalie's Peace of Mind Fund

www.creativecrafting08.blogspot.com

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Sarah said...

Susan, what a clever idea to keep receipts, etc. in a special file for each room. We just drop all our receipts in one big folder. Guess it is a little late to organize like that now! LOL
Thanks for sharing your blue and white guest room. Lovely and so inviting!

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Crystal Rose Cottage said...

Hi....Your guestroom is beautiful...love the color combo. I seen a dressform the other day in an antique store for $95 but not sure it was in quite the conditon yours was. Must have been nervewracking writing your check fast enough! lol
~Patti

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Anonymous Anonymous said...

Susan!!!! I love your guestroom!!!! I love the brass headboard! Very nice! I also love the candle in the teacup! :)

xoxoxox
Donna Marie

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Karen said...

I have been looking for a dress form for about 6 months now. You are right, they are very difficult to find in any kind of acceptable condition or a decent price. I am so GLAD you shared the dresser. My Gosh it is just stunning. I'd've sprung for that one too. And the shaving mirror! Such special pieces. They are awesome.
Thanks for haring! And love MAX!!!!!
HAGD! Karen

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Decor To Adore said...

What a beautiful room! That gorgeous dresser had me drooling. :)

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Tracy Watier said...

Love the colors and pattern combinations. I'm certain Mr. Faudree would approve!

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

So pretty Susan, and I love your color scheme - I have similar in my living room. Very welcoming room and it does look comfy!

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Amelia said...

Simply Beautiful!!!! :0) Smiles!

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Anonymous Cate said...

Been there. Done that. Threw the pillows on the floor.

Just keeping it real, folks! It's a very comfy, cozy, beautiful guest room, and even though she started decorating it back in 94, it has definitely evolved over the years.

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Brenda Pruitt said...

You know I love your house, and this room is no exception. The dresser is divine! I have always wanted a trunk like that. The bed has such intricate detail. The doll house is very special. And the cat: priceless! My pets always seem to find a way into photos I'm posting!
Brenda

 
At Monday, July 13, 2009 , Blogger Terri Steffes said...

All I can say is... you inspire me!

 
At Tuesday, July 14, 2009 , Blogger My Shining Lights said...

Thanks for sharing your guest room. What a lovely haven indeed! My favorite is the dresser I have never seen one like that. I love those antique treasures and the beautiful mirrors. And Max oh what a heart stealer!

 
At Tuesday, July 14, 2009 , Blogger Carrie said...

Visiting from the Nesting Party.... and so glad I stopped by! :) I really enjoyed your room and your commentary. What a pleasure! Thanks for sharing.

 
At Tuesday, July 14, 2009 , Blogger marmielu said...

Your room is just beautiful! I loved the story about your dressform purchase. I know how costly those can be, and that one is very nice indeed.
Mary Lou

 
At Tuesday, July 14, 2009 , Blogger The Quintessential Magpie said...

Susan, this room is just adorable! It is so cozy and warm and downright PRETTY! Love it. Love your colors SO much. It's timeless.

XO,

Sheila :-)

 
At Tuesday, July 14, 2009 , Blogger Kathleen said...

It's beautiful, Susan!
I am sure your guests love it...

 
At Tuesday, July 14, 2009 , Blogger Wendy said...

So many lovely things! You have beautiful tastes. I need you to come to my house for an emergency consultation. I'm afraid you'd order euthanizing if you saw my place. LOL!

 
At Thursday, July 16, 2009 , Anonymous Abbie said...

Just beautiful. I love how you used patterned fabric...and the cat pillow...very cute. Over from the Nester. Abbie

 

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