Creating A Signature Vintage Look Dunhaven Place Style

For quite some time I have been having a yen for a place to snooze outside.  Since I don't like the look of a traditional chaise lounge, I had to come up with something a bit more creative.  Now that we are moving on to some new opportunities and closing our store front (yes, we are closing our store front by the end of July--sob!) and going straight online, (meaning we will still be offering goodies via our website and Craigslist--yay!) I will have a little more time to snuggle up with the kiddies on my new outdoor bed. 

When pulling together a vintage look, don't be afraid to use things that aren't exactly perfect.  For example, this headboard is queen sized while the mattress (a double high air mattress, perfect for protection against puddles that collect from watering) is a mere twin.  Does anyone care?  (Really, I'm asking . . . if you do, let me know.)  One trick you can use to fool the eye is to take up some of the extra space with a little table to one side.  This one was put together from an old wrought iron plant stand and a plate from the kitchen.  Sure, it might break but when it gets dirty but it can go right into the dishwasher.   

It's more than okay to mix faux rose bushes with the real ones to add some color as long as they are in a place where they won't be too damaged by the sun.  The head of this bed will be in shade most of the day but it would be safer to put the throw away until ready for use to protect it from fading.  Most of these pillows are white or light so fading won't be such a tragedy.

This same strategy was used for this garden bench as well--pure white linens love some sun!  It helps to fade spots and graying. 

Don't be afraid to use what you have.  This corner offers a bough from a rose bush for additional shade and a stair post (behind the headboard in the corner) that used to live in the house. 

The table displays a doily, a pretty vase full of flowers, a teacup and a depression glass pitcher in the Adam pattern.  Are they more likely to break here than in the house?  Sure, but it's worth the risk to create a space you love. 

Between now and when we close the doors on our store front, all items at Dunhaven Place will be half off (with one or two exceptions) the original price.  We hope to see you stop by so we can say hello and thank you in person for helping to make our store a success.  We also hope that you will continue to welcome occassional emails or choose to "like" us on Facebook or follow our blog (all emails contain the same information and photos) as we plan to continue posting inspirational ideas and products.  (click on the highlighted links to follow us on FB or via our blog)  Be sure to invite your friends to do the same!

Thank you all for your support!

Heidi