Mirrors are a quick way to glam up a space. Whether floating above a nice console table flanked by buffet lamps, on a mantle or on its own, mirrors make a big statement in any room. Placed adjacent to windows, they reflect more light into a dark room. As with art and framed photographs, be sure to hang them at eye-level on a wall.

Mecox is a great source for beautiful mirrors of all shapes, sizes and materials

A pop of color is always nice in moderation. Pottery Barn masters the art of subtle flair with this round, red mirror.

These mirrors are stylish but the price tag is a little daunting to most of us. Style doesn’t have to come at such a high price. There are many similar mirrors that will be kind to your wallet. Here are some lower-priced alternatives that don’t skimp on style.

Starburst mirrors have been hot for a few seasons now and show no signs of slowing down. This mirror from wrapables.com costs only $59.99, saving you hundreds for the same look!

I love round mirrors. This one from Target is under $80 and will work well with modern or traditional decor.

Z Gallerie has lots of unique stles and their mirrors always catch your eye the minute you walk into the store. This star-shaped mirror brings gold back in a big way. At $199, it’s kind of a splurge, but its classic, non-trendy look has staying power.

We can’t forget how low prices are at good old IKEA. This Mongstad mirror had a thick frame giving it a clean line. Put it over a sofa horizontally or rotate it vertically and lean it against a wall in a foyer or dining room.

Summertime is my absolute favorite season. Last weekend I visited my friend Katrina’s newly purchased New Jersey home. I was also able to see my friend Erika’s beautiful sun room in her suburban New York home. Both of these spaces inspired me to blog about outdoor rooms. As my friends Kim, Tracy, Tara, Erika and her daughter Immanuelle sat on Katrina’s porch swing, the calm, tranquil outdoor space lulled us into a very relaxed state of mind. The freshly-made Mojitos didn’t hurt either!

The sun, warm weather, long daylight hours, poolside barbeques, parties with friends and fresh summer fruits make for great outdoor memories. Why stay confined to an air conditioned house when you can feel the breeze on your skin while lounging in a comfy outdoor room? Extend your indoor spaces outdoors with colorful, cozy furniture, water features, fireplaces and if your budget allows, even an outdoor kitchen.

Imagine having breakfast every morning in this colorful outdoor space. The fireplace can even be used in the evening for great ambiance.

Fire and water are always a great conversation piece and create visual interest. If you don’t have room or the budget to install a pool (who does these days?), a small water wall or fountain can create the same effect. A fire pit can be built on the cheap with some leftover bricks and a concrete slab.

This kitchen layout from a great outdoor kitchen company in the Bay area of California features a full-service kitchen complete with stainless steel appliances. Perfect for a summertime barbeque or birthday party without having to shuttle things in and out of the kitchen.

Target has stepped up in a major way with lots of outdoor furniture options. Chic and stylish, these pieces usually go on sale mid-summer. So if you want the best deal on patio furniture for late summer/fall, be sure to purchase collections like this around late June.

For a cozy, casual living room feel, opt for a sectional like this one from Target. Kick your shoes off, grab a tall, chilled beverage and RELAX!

Z Gallerie features some fabulous summertime tents to create a chic cabana style anywhere in your yard or small deck area.

Enjoy the summer, everyone!

As previously posted, settees are adding sizzle to dining rooms everywhere. The moss green fabric coupled with the espresso finish on the Allegro Settee will give any space a clean, fresh look for spring. To find a piece like this at Crate & Barrel is a steal! Click on the image for details.

My name is Kim and I am a tile fanatic!  I frequently visit tile showrooms and marvel at the variety of patterns and techniques.  From simple and understated to bold and busy, I love it all.  If you want to give your bathroom or kitchen some color and interest, consider upgrading your backsplash, shower surround or tub area.  Entire walls can be tiled as well, bringing an ultra-clean, modern look to the space.  Harlequin patterns, cushion-cut stone, glass tile, stainless steel tiles and tumbled stone are some of the hottest trends these days.  These looks are especially nice on fireplace surrounds.  Which ones are your favorite?

Sources:  www.daltile.com, www.marazzitile.com, www.arizonatile.com, www.interceramic.com, www.americantile.com, www.americanolean.com, www.modwalls.com  (Modwalls is on FB)