I bought this tray table at the Hell's Kitchen flea market about two years ago for $30.  I negotiated the price down from $40 because the trays were in a little bit of disrepair.  It was an easy enough fix since they have dovetail joints that needed to be reglued.  I really liked the simple lines and functionality. 
The frame was originally wood and the bottom of the trays a fairly awful laminate.  I'm sorry I didn't get a before shot because this gal really needed some makeup to look so pretty.  I spray painted the frame a satin black from Rustoleum and lined the trays with some textured grasscloth wallpaper that has tones of black blended in with the tan to tie in the frame.  I could cover the bottom of the trays with plexiglass but I'll probably just paint on a coat of sealer to keep the grasscloth looking sharp.
Despite my procrastination, this was a really easy project to pull off and now I've got a great place for keys, mail and other small items when I walk in the door.

A common phrase on design shows and in shelter magazines is "bringing the outside in".  Most of the time that refers to a nature inspired color palatte or the addition of plants and greenery to a setting.  But as more people start using their decks and yards as their summertime living rooms, companies have stepped up to introduce products that are suitable for both indoors and outdoors.  Here are a few great finds.

One question I get asked on a pretty regular basis as a designer is what furniture I would buy if money were no object.  I'm someone who has the inside scoop about what's available, right?  Well, for years my answer has been the same: Baker.  It's elegant, it's classic and beautifully made.  I'm buying a house full of it right after I win the Lotto--because all that quality and beauty ain't cheap.  But for the second year, I've seen an exhibit at the AD Home Show that has made me reconsider.  The New Traditionalists has some of the sexiest furniture I've seen in a long time.

I received a question the other day from a reader who needs to purchase new bedroom furniture.  Like most of us, she has a limited budget, but wanted to get something sturdy for her very large wardrobe.  She's ready to upgrade from Ikea and really wants solid wood.  One last caveat, she'd like to see the pieces in person before buying.  Here's my advice:

So I've been on this kick to get the apartment in shape and looking good.  For  months I've been browsing on craigslist to find pieces to suit the new apartment and my lifestyle.  I have finally pulled the trigger on a few pieces (still gloating) and just this week found an adorable coffee table.  I was so excited when I saw the ad.  32" wood round table with clean lines and a somewhat indecipherable style.  Shelter magazines use the word "transitional' a lot, but this table really could transition to a bunch of different looks.  Plus, at $60 it was sweet deal.

I am the proud new owner of this lovely Mid-Century Modern buffet and china.  I was doing my regular Craigslist browse and when I saw this piece for under $200, I pounced.  I'm guessing they just really want to get rid of it because they probably could have gotten double the asking price.  Seriously, the credenzas alone are rarely under $300-$400.  By the way, the owner followed my Craigslist posting rules, which made my decision much easier.  And I showed up at the agreed time with a deposit, which I'm sure made her life easier.

I am now faced with the dilemma of exactly how to use this piece.  The plan was originally to buy a credenza with storage for clothing and have the TV on top.  And since the buffet and china do separate, I can proceed as planned.  But at just shy of 6' tall, it's an excellent height for my tiny apartment.  Plus, it just looks really good just the way it is.