I really don’t know where to start with this week’s column.
Nothing is normal, and decorating is the least of everyone’s worry considering what our area has been through. So many will need to rebuild their homes and lives. I hope that I can make their lives a little easier and a lot better when the time comes and they can enjoy furnishing and decorating their homes again. I will be ready with an open heart, BIG discounts and the best care possible.
I thought I might share some things that have crossed my mind in my home since the hurricane.
We had one large pine tree hit our home. Although it penetrated the roof in several areas, it did not come into my home.
The main trunk of the tree is standing around 18 feet tall. Instead of having the entire tree removed, I have decided to keep the trunk as a reminder of the good that came from the storm. Yes, I witnessed much heartbreak, drama and bad decisions, but I mostly witnessed people coming together, helping one another get back on their feet.
I want this trunk to remind me every day of the goodness in this world and that no matter how bad things can get, love and goodness will prevail. I have asked my lawn maintenance company, who cut the tree from my roof right away, to cut this trunk clean across as tall as he can.
As a designer, I want to not only want the trunk to serve as an emotional reminder, but to have a physical and aesthetic purpose. As there were so many birds and wildlife that were displaced or killed, I want to place a very decorative bird house on top of the trunk. I have scoured the internet for such an idea and here is what I have found that I really like.
With the tree piercing the roof, we had a lot of water pouring into the room during the storm. We grabbed towels and buckets and caught what we could. If we had carpet or hardwood in the room the floor would need replacing. We have LVT, or luxury vinyl tile on the floor.
It is abrasion and water resistant. Thank goodness! The floor is not damaged! I recommend anyone to use LVT when making flooring decisions. There are so many patterns and textures available that look like wood, tile or concrete. There is a look for everyone.
And, if you are handy, you can even install it yourself!
I had some water pooling on my sofas. My sofas are leather, so they were easy to wipe and clean. And leather wears much better than a fabric. So, think about leather when purchasing upholstery.
My heart aches for the CSRA and anyone that got caught in this hurricane. As soon as my store had power, I offered an air conditioned space for people to come relax, charge their cellphones, get a cold drink or a snack. I heard so many horror stories that I hope we never have to face again. I hope that I am able to get your mind off of the sadness and can help turn any dilemma you might have in rebuilding into a fun and productive journey.
Please reach out to me at mike@signaturemike.com if you need some guidance free of charge…or maybe you just need a virtual “hug.” I find that many people just want to be heard so that they can let go of the bad and move toward a more positive outcome. Our homes and how we live day to day is a big part of how comfortable we can become again and I am honored to be able to help give some hope.
