A change in season is often the perfect time to change things up at home — whether through a fresh coat of paint, some new furniture or even an accessory swap. Unfortunately, though, the prospect of spending a ton of time and money to refresh our living spaces can stop us before we ever get started. So, to ease some of that frustration, we’ve scoured Birmingham to find 17 local pieces that will provide your home with a much-needed breath of fresh air without breaking the bank or adding more to-do’s to your already full list.
From pops of color in the kitchen and other shared rooms, to lighting, antiques, plants and even hardware, these small FINDS make a big impact. And, because we know many of you are shopping for your recent grad’s future dorm room, we’ve included an item that will make their life so much easier. Here are our June FINDS!
SPLASH OF COLOR
Pillow
One of the easiest ways to bring new color into your space is through pillows. We were immediately drawn to this pillow from Paige Albright Orientals because of its vibrant color scheme and funky, bohemian pattern. Find this, for $175, at Paige Albright Orientals.
Artwork
Another simple, yet impactful way to add color to an otherwise neutral space is with a piece of art. These beauties from Design Supply in Pepper Place come in a multitude of shapes, sizes and colors and are ideal for lining a bookshelf or placing atop the mantle. Find these, for $55 to $110, at Design Supply.
Local print
The Yellowhammer Print Shop is one of our favorite spots to grab anything Birmingham-related. The store carries a variety of fun products with local flair — including t-shirts and bumper stickers — and their prints are sure to add a fun, modern and unique addition to your walls. We love this “Visit Vulcan” poster for some colorful local love. Find this print, for $15, at Yellowhammer Print Shop in the Pizitz Food Hall or online here.
FOR THE KITCHEN
Coasters
A beautiful set of coasters adds both panache and practicality to your space, and they’re easy to switch up seasonally. But these Argentus coaster sets from Henhouse Antiques are so beautiful they may stick around throughout the year. Both shades — bright blue and amber — feature a sleek silver lining that adds a touch of glam. Find the sets of four, for $160, at Henhouse Antiques.
Summer plates
Why not create a bright and playful tablescape this summer with these whimsical blue and white plates from The Blue Willow? Just imagine how fantastic they would look with some white linen, a bowl of lemons and some vibrant blooms at your next summer dinner party. Find these, for $15.95 each, at The Blue Willow.
LIGHTING
Bathroom bulbs
Update your bathroom with this stunning piece from Mayer Lighting — it’s available in three-light, two-light and single-sconce options. We love how the two-toned finish of textured black plus chrome creates an ultra-modern touch. Find this, for $169, at Mayer Lighting.
Coastal lamp shade
We love coastal accents in our home, and this lamp shade from Nadeau perfectly embodies the laid-back style. Understated, versatile and earthy, this piece is a beautiful addition to any space. Find it, for $58, at Nadeau.
Industrial bulbs
If industrial-chic is more your aesthetic, we’ve found the perfect lighting treasure for you at Stray Cats Home Decor. This hanging bulb fixture is an easy way to bring a popular, modern home trend into any room. Find this, for $169.99, at Stray Cats Home Decor.
ANTIQUES
Handprinted antique glasses and serving tray
Is there any better way to add charm and character to your home than with some gorgeous antique pieces? We’re swooning over these handprinted glasses from Lolo French Antiques et More. And, if you’re looking to indulge a bit, this wooden, 1970s-era enameled tray is the perfect way to serve your drinks. Find the glasses, for $45 each, and the tray, for $375, at Lolo French Antiques et More.
One-of-a-kind globe
We never pass up an opportunity to peruse the aisles of a local antiques shop, and when we saw this globe at Homewood Antiques and Marketplace, we immediately fell in love. Not only is a globe a fabulous way to add color to a dreary desk or bookshelf, but this particular one speaks to the wanderlust in all of us. Find it for $50 at Homewood Antiques and Marketplace.
RELATED: Break Out of Your Beige Box: How to Decorate with Bright Colors, Bold Textures & Fun Patterns
PLANTS
Planter
One of the easiest ways to refresh your space for the summer season is with some greenery. This small planter from Richard Tubb Interiors is a great find, as its sweet simplicity makes it a timeless accessory that you’ll turn to for many years to come. Grab a few and pop them in different rooms in your house to brighten things up. Find this, for $49, from Richard Tubb Interiors.
Hanging plants
We’re always excited to explore Shoppe, the 1920s home-turned-flower shop in Forest Park, and this time around we found a bright and bountiful hanging plant that we just had to share. Hang these on your porch for a seasonal touch of green with the perfect pop of color. Find this, for $19, at Shoppe.
Succulents
No green thumb? Opt for a succulent that requires little upkeep while still providing the same color and life. These beauties, from Charlie Thigpen’s Garden Gallery in Pepper Place, come in a number of different shapes, sizes and colors to match any design aesthetic. Find these, for $19 to $69, at Charlie Thigpen’s Garden Gallery.
HARDWARE
Gold hardware
It’s been said that replacing the hardware on cabinets and drawers is a small change that makes a big impact. And lately, we’ve been obsessing over gold fixtures as a luxurious, statement-making addition to the kitchen. Here, you can see how gold hardware from Toulmin Cabinetry and Design made an already stunning kitchen even more fabulous. Visit Toulmin Cabinetry and Design for pricing or to schedule a consultation.
Faucet
Hardware definitely affects a kitchen’s overall style and tone, and pulls are one of the most important pieces. Whether you prefer something modern and metallic, or a piece that’s charming and vintage, unique pulls, like the style on the cabinets below, can make all the difference. For these pulls and more, visit Avondale Specialty Hardware to schedule a one-on-one consultation. (And you can see the rest of this spectacular kitchen here.)
FOR THE DORM
PowerCube
If you’re helping a new college student outfit his or her dorm room, this PowerCube is a must have. There are always devices that need to be charged, and this handy little accessory easily adds four outlets and two USB ports to any space. The heavy-duty piece also features a 10-foot cord and clever mounting plate so it can be posted anywhere. Find it for $34.95 at Dorm Decor or online here.
FROM SB SHOP
“Drink More Champagne” napkins
Step up your bar cart game with these Lettermade, fine-quality, embroidered cocktail napkins. Not only do they add a fun, thoughtful touch to your bar, but they also act as the perfect detail for your entertaining needs. Find a set of four, for $48, on SB Shop.
Get out there and explore the Magic City’s home shops to refresh your space in time for summer!
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