Friday Guest Blog Interview: Sixty-Fifth Avenue

I was over the moon when Londen of Sixty-Fifth Avenue sent me an absolute ‘yes!’ when asked to participate in PDB’s Friday Guest Blog Interview series. If I had to choose a close second to blogging, it would be getting inside the creative minds of fellow bloggers via these fun, round table questions that so many have taken a stab at (here’s a link to the whole list). It’s inspiring to hear the creative process, loves and tips of those who have ‘been there done that’ in the worlds of diying, crafting and designing.

Sixty-Fifth Avenue is a constant source of just such information – Londen creates Before & Afters that are just beautiful and regularly shares on the updates of her own little bungalow. She’s a self-confessed treasure hunter and is quite adept at making the old new.

If I could describe her style from reading her blog, I would say Londen gravitates towards the shabby chic, cottage vibe that is all about white-washed furniture, floral (but modern) fabrics and the occasional brilliant pops of color. That plus a traditional spin makes for one beautifully decorated Chicago home.

Follow the jump for a little house tour and interview answers!

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{PDB Interview with Londen of Sixty-Fifth Avenue}

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What inspires your design style?

My style is influenced by so many things. I am always inspired by nature’s colors and textures. Living in the Midwest we enjoy the four seasons. Throughout the year, we often spend the day hiking and exploring the woods or the beach near our home with our four year old. We always end up with a bag full of “nature”.

For years I was a magazine junky. I kept a lot of them and would refer back to certain articles when I needed inspiration. Now I find so many amazing ideas looking through design blogs.

When I was a little girl, I tagged along with my mom shopping garage sales and antique stores. Watching her create a beautiful home on a budget over the years taught me to be resourceful when I decorate my own home.

What do you love most about what you do?

I’m in the beginning stages of starting a business making over old furniture. It gives me a thrill to see a piece transform into something beautiful again in a few hours. Of course hunting for pieces to work on is part of the fun for me.

Having a blog has been a wonderful way to share many of my projects and passions. I love being able to connect with other people who have similar interests. I’m very excited to be part of this amazing blog community.

Dresser before & after.

What are three design suggestions that you would like to offer our readers?

{1.} Use your own photography as inexpensive artwork. It can be as simple as walking around your neighborhood or city to find inspiration, or framing your travel memories and family. I just finished a photo wall using black and white photographs taken on some of our trips over the years; it has been so nice to get them on the wall and be able to enjoy them every day.

Dining room diy photo wall.

{2.} You don’t have to spend a lot to get the look you’re after. Searching Craigslist and other online sources are a great way to find good deals. Flea markets, estate sales and garage sales are some of my favorite places to hunt for treasures. If you find something that you think might work, try to picture it with a fresh coat of paint, new hardware or different fabric; these can be easy changes.

A beat up 70’s side table takes on new life as a shabby chic potting table, tutorial here.

{3.} Don’t be afraid to mix different styles together and use what you love. Painted and wood furniture can mix happily with vintage, antique and rustic pieces.

Londen’s living room, the ‘after’ picture. Check out the full post here.

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If you loved this interview, check out more great spotlights {and tips & tricks!} from fantastic bloggers!