This past week was a big week for us.  We added a new member to our family!  A new member you ask… Yes, a new member.  Because each and every one of them has a place and serves a purpose.  Yet, my husband says, the most beautiful thing about it is the reflection that it displays… Our Family.  Meet my new design solution for a Butler’s Pantry for less than $150.

I love it for a few reasons.  Number one, this puppy was originally $399 at ZGallerie.  And, I got it for $139.  How did this happen?? It ‘s a little thing I call divine intervention and a payoff for what I believe is good stewardship.  And, you would never know but it has a small crack in the bottom left corner.  This reduced the price down from $399 to $199 and because it just so happened to be a floor model, they wanted to get it off the floor ASAP.  Word to the wise: everything that’s a floor model is negotiable.  Just talk to the store manager.  They can make just about anything happen.  And just like that, they came down an extra $60.  The best part is to finish this space with custom cabinetry it was going to cost over $2,000.  Ridiculous!! What you can’t quite see in this picture above is that this mirror is placed upon a piece of granite that is part of what people call a “Butler’s Pantry.”  First of all, you may be wondering, what is a butler’s pantry and why do I need one? My thoughts exactly…  Number one, I don’t have a butler; and number two I already have a pantry! Last spring my builder decided to generously offer this unfinished space that we could simply finish off at a later time.  Simple enough, right? Well, when we calculated this was going to cost a couple G’s just to add cabinetry, we decided to get creative.  Now, my space is open, bright and is more beautiful than before because it reflects the faces of those I love.  And check out my sight line, now I can see the beautiful photos that extend up the stairway also drawing visual interest.

Design Takeaway: If you find a great deal, think outside the box! Get creative.  I didn’t set out looking for this but it inspired me and I knew I had to find a place to use this in my design.  Another great idea is to use this mirror with a basket of blankets, toys or towels in front to hide the blemish.  My second tip, most floor models are negotiable. I always try to go for an extra 10% off but in this case I was able to get 30%.  Become friends with the sales staff at your favorite stores.  They’re there to keep customers happy! Tip number three, shop on Thursday nights and Friday mornings… This is when retailers do their mark downs and you’re often able to get the best selection at the best price.   And last but not least, only buy if you LOVE it. There’s no reason to simply collect things that will collect dust because it’s a good deal.  This is what I mean about good stewardship.  Collect pieces that mean something and have a story to tell.  The older I become I realize less is really more… Thanks for taking a moment to allow me to share what I love in the place I call HOME.