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HOME DECOR, TRENDS

When life gives you….pineapples!

July 8, 2017

Pineapples seem to be everywhere these days, don’t they?!

The pineapple trend is going strong – pillows, art, outdoor furniture, decorative accents and more….You might be thinking that pineapples are trending right now because it is summer and pineapples have a tropical flare that we think of when the sun is out. But pineapples actually have a history in home decor.

Photo credit – Erica Hammer

Pineapples – the symbolism

Seafaring captains used to impale fresh pineapples–souvenirs of their lengthy travels to tropical ports–atop the porch railings of their homes when they returned. It was a symbol then that the man of the house was home–albeit briefly–and receiving visitors.

During early Colonial days in the United States, families would set a fresh pineapple in the center of the table as a colorful centerpiece of the festive meal, especially when visitors joined them in celebration. This symbolized the utmost in welcome and hospitality to the visitor, and the fruit would be served as a special desert after the meal. Often when the visitor spent the night, he was given the bedroom which had the pineapples carved on the bedposts or headboard–even if the bedroom belonged to the head of the household.

Photo credit – Burkaton

There’s a small town in rural Alabama that boasts symbols of the pineapple everywhere -the town ‘Pine Apple’, settled by “Easterners” from the Carolinas, Georgia, and Virginia around 1820 was originally named “Friendship”. But there was already another Friendship, Alabama, so they named their town in honor of the pine and the apple trees that gave the land its beauty and the town its wealth. These days, the town’s name is as often written “Pineapple”. Signs of this universal symbol of hospitality are seen painted on the front doors of homes and the town’s welcome sign, carved in finials and even Christmas decorations, on gate-posts and roof-tops, carved into bedposts and head-boards, and found in a variety of table centerpieces.

Not only have wood-carvers etched this symbol, but the delicate hands of needle-workers have preserved this symbol in family heirlooms over the centuries. Items such as pineapple samplers, table cloths, and crochet doilies are just some of the items found in homes to welcome friends and visitors.

The pineapple has been a universal symbol of hospitality and welcome for many centuries all over the world.

For more information of the history and symbolism of the pineapple, click here …

Photo credit – Aimee Wilder

Decorating with Pineapples

Pineapples can be found in many areas of the home for decoration. Historically they were displayed outside to send the message to friends and neighbours that ‘guests were welcome’. In areas of the southern United States, we often still see pineapples on the exterior of homes – door knockers, address plaques and doormats are some of the more common decorative touches with pineapples.

Lately, we have been seeing a resurgence of pineapples in home decor and we are seeing a modern spin and even a bit of a quirky spin on the pineapple theme.

Photo credit – The Pink Dream Designs by Ceres

Our picks for decor pieces featuring pineapples:

These outdoor pineapple print pillows are perfect for a backyard oasis.

These pineapple string lights are perfect for an outdoor dining space or seating area – they add a tropical touch and a bit of whimsy.

Add a pineapple art piece at your front entry or mixed in with your gallery wall. We love this simple print from Minted.

These pineapple pinstripe bed sheets add just a small detail to any bedroom – we love these for a guest bedroom! Perfect for a warm welcome for out of town friends and family.

Welcome your house guests with a snack on this pineapple serving board – just another inviting touch to home entertaining!

Historically, pineapples were used as centerpieces when entertaining guests at a dinner parties – this ceramic pineapple figurine could be added to a table or at the front entry console table.

You don’t need to spend a fortune to make guests feel welcome and add warmth to your home. Even a simple, fresh pineapple centerpiece inviting and natural way to welcome your guests – no matter where you live.

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HOME DECOR, TRENDS

Wood Bead Garland – A decor trend we love

July 3, 2017

The Wood bead garland is a trend that we just love! I used some recently in an urban farmhouse inspired model home, not to mention I have some in my own home … I love these simple garlands and let me tell you why and how I love to decorate with them!

Photo credit – PrettySimplyStudio

What is a wood bead garland?

The wood bead garland is probably best described as ‘jewelry for the home’. It adds a great texture and a new shape to a space. These wood bead garlands come in different lengths and colours, some even come with different size beads. The beaded garlands have a touch of rustic which is why they work so well with farmhouse decor.

How to decorate with a wood bead garland?

There is no set way on how to decorate with the wood bead garland but it works best in a relaxed arrangement. I personally have mine at my front entry draped over some books and a Dutch clog from my husband’s family. It adds to our entry vignette

The wood bead garland works well draped over a vase, vintage trophy, glass or pottery piece or even draped over a wreath…it add another element of texture.

Photo credit – PrettySimplyStudio

We also love the look of draping these garland in a bowl or tray – hung or coiled or a combination of the two works – just keep it looking casual…

Photo credit – PrettySimplyStudio

Wood bead garland also work beautifully in Christmas decor – if you like a woodland or natural look, try an extra long natural wood garland in your Christmas tree

Photo credit – The Merrythought

Mix it withe some greenery to and add it to your fireplace mantle – it has a woodland look with a touch of Scandinavian inspiration.

Photo credit – Oleander + Palm

Where can you buy a wood bead garland?

If you are crafty, you can make your own wood bead garland….

I purchased my wood bead garlands through a great little shop on Etsy, PrettySimplyStudio I love the quality and the handmade craftsmanship, plus there are even customization options for colour and also some custom tags too.

Photo credit – PrettySimplyStudio

I love the texture and the shape that these wood bead garlands bring to a decor scheme…what other ways to you see this trend working in your home decor?

SHOP WOOD BEAD GARLANDS…

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SHOPPING FINDS, TRENDS

Friday Favourites…

June 24, 2017

It’s Friday! and it’s time to round up some of our favourite pieces from the week. It has been a busy week at kiki interiors and we have been working on so many different projects for clients but here are some of our favourite finds from the week….

Eiffel Side Chair

We are HUGE fans of these chairs – we used them most recently at Stittsville Walk but we have used them with a number of clients. they come in a bunch of colours and different bases, too!

Zak Teak Dining Table

This was a recent purchase for our staging inventory and we love it! We just took it out of the box this week and wow, it did not disappoint! It’s a perfect table for a smaller space and the reclaimed teak has a raw and industrial look bringing so much character to the room.

Bull Printed Framed Art

Another new inventory piece … we love the simplicity and the unexpected element of this piece. It is such a clean looking framed piece – we hung this over an accent chair in our latest model at Stittsville Walk – we love art with some personality, it really brings a unique feel to any space!

Laurel Foundry Modern Farmhouse 1 light pendant

We needed something simple in the dining space – we already had an amazing 12 bulb chandelier in the kitchen over the island so we needed something complimentary in the dining space. We love this simple glass one light pendant with a vintage bulb –

Bora Solid Acacia Wood Table

We love the look of natural wood – the character of natural elements adds so much to a space – we love mixing textures! We needed a smaller coffee table and instead of a standard coffee table we opted for 2 of these and placed them side by side.

Bungalow Rose Zanzibar Area Rug

We love this rug! The colour, the design and the vintage feel – we have 2 clients who have purchased this rug so far and they both love it! Are rugs are a great way to add visual interest to a room with colour and print!

Sevan Faux Mongolian Fur Blanket

We love adding texture like fur to living rooms, bedrooms and even dining rooms . Faux fur adds a great touch of softness to any space – it comes in all sizes and colours, too! We also like it as a pillow.

This is our round-up for this weeks favourites …. which is your favourite?

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HOME DECOR, TRENDS

We Answer Wednesday – Farmhouse style

March 9, 2017

“I see this farmhouse style everywhere – I really like it! How can I get this look in my home without buying all new furniture?”

You are right! The farmhouse look does seem to be everywhere! The great news about this style is two fold.

One –

when it comes to the farmhouse look there are many options, levels and directions you can choose.

Two –

it is a cozy and timeless look, so you don’t have to worry about being trendy.

We also love the versatility of this style. The farmhouse look blends easily with the industrial look and also a rustic look. But you can easily blend farmhouse with some traditional pieces and some modern elements too.

How can you get the farmhouse style at home?

You are in luck – to get this look you don’t need to spend a lot. You can achieve this look with adding a few elements and pieces.

Here are some of our suggestions:

Farmhouse Art

– art, photography and even country inspired signs are an easy addition to your space to help you get that farmhouse look. We love this farmhouse sign from Wayfair – so simple and clean a perfect addition for any space that needs that country touch.

Chalkboard

– the ease and casual look of chalkboard gives a space a warmth of a country farmhouse. It’s relaxed and simple – we love chalk board paint – it’s easy to use and apply.

Galvanized metal

– easy pieces like buckets, chairs, even light fixtures in this material add to that country feel. Be sure to have a dull finish and even a few dings is totally OK. This galvanized metal pitcher – it ‘pitcher’ perfect! Add some fresh greenery or a cut bouquet and it is a simple farmhouse centerpiece!

Ladder displays

– add another rustic touch plus they are a eat way to store blankets and even books and magazines. They are great in bedrooms, bathrooms and living rooms. We love this ladder display with framed family photos!

Layer textured rugs

– again keeping a very casual look and mixing up textures adds another element to the laid back farmhouse style. We love to mix a cowhide with a natural fiber like sisal or even seagrass.

Lighting

– simple lighting fixtures in a metallic and dull finish add a farmhouse character to a space. Look for pendants with simple and clean lines with a rustic feel. So much of farmhouse style is about simplicity – this pendant has a rustic feel due to the colour and finish and the design is just simple….

Textiles

– in pillows, drapery and blankets are another easy way to get this farmhouse look. Look for knits, flannel, plaids and soft stone washed fabrics. Mix them up – farmhouse is a very simple and relaxed look. Layer them and don’t get caught up in symmetry.

Add ‘practical’ pieces

– so decorate with items like laundry wash boards, old farm tools, bowls, baskets, pickle jars and mason jars. These rustic pieces play into the farmhouse feel.

Add some personality

– the farmhouse style is a relaxed look in every way so keep it casual and fun! We love to add signs and other items that have a bit of personality. small accessories in any room can add to that farmhouse feel. This kitchen utensil holder is a great little piece for a kitchen that fits into the farmhouse look.

Wood

– the farmhouse look is really focused on texture. Wood is a texture that is closely connected with farms and the outdoors. Add some wood elements to your space like bowls, boxes, trays, shelving and even a fireplace mantle. Opt for reclaimed pieces with lots of character.

With this farmhouse style you can ‘dial it up’ or ‘dial it down’ as much as you like. You can go very literal with farm pieces like signage and wire baskets OR you can take some influence from this style and play with the different textures and add the farmhouse essence into your space. We love the warm and cozy feel from this style – we hope you do, too!

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TRENDS

2017 Colour of the Year: Greenery

January 6, 2017

So it was just announced last month by Pantone that the Colour of the year for 2017 is Greenery.

Pantone describes this shade as “greenery is a fresh and zesty yellow-green shade that evokes the first days of spring when nature’s greens revive, restore and renew. Illustrative of flourishing foliage and the lushness of the great outdoors, the fortifying attributes of Greenery signals consumers to take a deep breath, oxygenate and reinvigorate.”

This colour definitely makes us think of spring and really brings us in tune with nature.

We knew that 2017 trends would definitely have a real connection with nature with the resurgence of wood and wood grain and a real draw towards warmer and natural textures this colour fits right in with that scene.

This colour is on the bolder side with a lot of energy but you can bring it into your space with ease….

1. Shades of Green –

When it comes to decorating with the colour of the year (any year) make that colour fit into your style so that might means finding a shade that is less saturated and one that is softer (or the opposite) and then bringing that into your space. Don’t worry so much about taking the trend literally.

Photo from HGTV

2. Quantity –

At first, be sure to add a small amount just to test the waters and keep it simple with accessories like decor pieces, florals, pillows – things that aren’t big budget breakers but will give the room a fresh look. If you like what you see you can always add more but small changes can give you big results!

Photo from Home Bunch

3. Mix it in with your current scheme –

You might think that this colour isn’t overly versatile but that’s not true! It really works well with so many other colours – it pairs beautifully with neutrals like grey, navy, white, chocolate brown and more plus it plays well with other colourful options like yellow, pink, cobalt blue….

Photo from adore home

4. Add life to any room –

The wonderful part about this colour is that it is true to mother nature and it gives every single space a fresh new burst of life! Try adding a floral arrangement, a bowl of apples (or even limes) or a plant in any room and you won’t believe what a change it makes.

Photo from mylusciouslife.com

5. Play with pattern –

Adding a splash of the trendy colour into a mix of different patterns will really give your space a designer look and feel. we love this combination of the softer greenery colour paired with white and this denim and navy blue.

Photo from calicocorners.com

6. Works with any style –

Some colours don’t translate well with certain styles of decor but greenery really works with any style. If you love a Country look it works with florals and gingham, like a more traditional style? Try adding some greenery in a toile print or in some botanical art. If you are more modern and streamlined – greenery is a great splash in art or pillows even a great accent chair. If your style is more vintage or retro – the possibilities are endless!

Photo from Architectural Digest

7. Make it interesting and a little unexpected –

This might not for everyone but if you are someone who really likes this colour (or any colour) and you aren’t afraid to show it – use it where one might not expect to see it! Areas like lighting – a colourful pendant in a kitchen can make a big and bold statement. Furniture pieces like a sofa or bar stools. Wall paper accent walls in a front entry. Paint a piece of furniture that needs a bit of a makeover.

Photo from concepts & Colorways

You can absolutely ‘take a risk’ with greenery and bring it into your space. Even just the smallest addition of this beautiful colour will do wonders for your space!

I hope this helps you embrace this hot colour for 2017 – bold can be beautiful!

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Mixing Metallics without going over board

October 26, 2016

“I love the sparkle and shine of metallics but I’m worried about going over board with the look. Any tips?”

The sparkle, shine and texture of metallics gives any room an instant boost of luxury and glamour but you are correct, you need to find the right balance.

1. Softness.

So metallics have a distinct shiny quality and they have a hard and smooth texture, so balance that out with some softer textures. Try adding some cashmere knits, velvet, and wool to counter balance the hard quality of metallics.

2. Neutral.

Metallics can really add a punch to a room and they are timeless so don’t get too crazy with your palette. a few pops of colour is a nice touch but we really love pairing metallics (one metallic or a mix) with a neutral back drop and don’t forget those soft textures!

3. Classic.

Keep it classic when it comes to metallics – brass, silver and gold are totally chic and timeless. Sure, copper is cool right now but it tends to float in and out of fashion.

4. Mix.

Keep it modern by mixing your metallics. Like wood, metallics go with metallics. So play around with the finishes. But we really recommend sticking with the same colour metal but we like to see chrome mixed with brushed nickle and satin nickle same goes for the golden tones.

5. Small.

New to metallics? Start with small steps – some smaller decor pieces on a tray or bookcase and build it from there.

Metallics are a great addition to add some sophistication to a space and they can also make a room look and feel larger and brighter. That reflective surface allows the light to bounce around the whole room plus it adds sophistication and glamour to a room. Plus who doesn’t love a little of sparkle and shine in their life!

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, TRENDS

Home Decor Ideas: How to Decorate with Velvet

September 29, 2016

Velvet is making a come back! So if you pay close attention to fashion you have probably noticed the influence of the 90’s (chokers, brown lipstick and baby doll dresses just to name a few of the styles that have bounced back into trend).

Well like fashion from the runways we definitely see the influence of women’s fashion translate into our homes. One of the trends you will be seeing this coming year (but we are already seeing it in some stores) is VELVET! Yes, that’s right Velvet. The luxurious fabric that you just have to touch when you see it. In the 90’s we saw a lot of velvet jackets, skirts, tops and dresses and this year we will see it in home fashion.

If you are a follower of fashion and you love to be on trend – this is definitely for you!

Here are some Home decor Ideas with Velvet:

1. Velvet Throw Pillows –

this is an easy way to bring this trend into your space without spending a fortune. The touchable fabric adds a bit of luxury to a space but also visual interest. We always suggest mixing textures to give your space a sophisticated and designer look. The great news is when it comes to velvet, the colour choices are truly endless. Find a pillow or two in velvet in a colour that coordinates with your existing scheme. We love to see oversized pillows (think 20×20) in velvet for the living room or bedroom. A solid colour velvet pillow can really add to a space.

2. Velvet Throw blanket –

again another easy nod to the trend that won’t cost you a ton. Like the throw pillow, choose a colour that will work with your current room palette. The texture of this throw will really add a new level of sophistication to the space.

3. Velvet Ottoman or Pouf –

We have seen a ton of velvet ottomans in stores lately. We have also seen a lot of ottoman styles in velvet – tufted, round, bench with legs etc…Like the pillows and the throw this adds that sophisticated element to a room, this is a bit more expensive so be sure to like the idea of velvet before really committing. We love to see a velvet ottoman in a rich jewel tone – it’s a bit glamour but still timeless. Think living room, bedroom, glamorous office space or front entry – make a statement!

4. Velvet Dining chairs or armchair –

this starts to get a bit pricier but if you want to make a statement in your space this would be one! If you love to make a splash and want to be remembered for your decor choices – velvet chairs are one way to go. We do love an accent chair and velvet is a way to make a bold pop in a space. Think of a great accent chair in a living room or chairs in a dining space. We love the softness and luxury that velvet brings but pair it with some modern elements like a glass table and a touch of gold – so chic!

5. Velvet Headboard –

love the idea of velvet but not for your main living space? It makes a sophisticated splash in a bedroom. We love a nail head headboard but in velvet, wow – that’s stunning! We prefer sticking with a timeless hue as it is easy to work with as you change your bed linens but it will also always be in style. It looks great paired with metallic lamps and oversized end tables.

6. Velvet Sofa –

If you LOVE velvet, a sofa in velvet might be for you. It is a classic fabric so it won’t go out of style. You can be as classic as you like in terms of style of sofa and colour or you can be as bold and bright as you like. It is a commitment so be sure to follow you heart. We love the look of a charcoal or navy velvet sofa with clean lines and minimal pillows – it has a clean, sexy and chic look. We have also see some fun vintage sofas in bright and fun colours – it’s entirely up to you!

7. Velvet accent chair –

Accent chairs do exactly that add an accent! So try adding some colour and texture with some luxe velvet armchairs!

Remember velvet isn’t exactly family friendly, so be sure to pick velvet accessories or furniture pieces with that in mind – it’s easier to dry clean a pillow or throw than it is a sofa, for instance…..

Texture is one of my favourite elements to add to a room and velvet adds so much luxury, sophistication and class. What do you think of this trend?

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HOME DECOR, TRENDS

2016 Trends for the Home

September 27, 2015

Believe it or not 2016 is around the corner! And the home fashion trends are already in the works!

What can we expect to see in the new year?

FUR (mixing textures) –

Fur (faux) is hot! I find we see this year after year especially in the cooler months but this year it will be everywhere – pillows and throws of course, but rugs and furniture too!

GOLD –

We saw a bit of a comeback of gold in 2015 but we will see even more in 2016. Lighting, plumbing, furniture – Gold is back!

SHINY DETAILS-

Think edging of furniture and hardware. Little details that shine! So if you can’t hop on the ‘solid’ gold train try this trend instead. A little bit of shine can go a long way!

PINK (think pastels)-

Soft and feminine pink in art, furniture and accessories. In paint we will see beige-pink walls, too! Often we think pale pink is only for little girls’ rooms but it is branching out! It is a great soft feminine touch and it works with neutrals like beige, cream, navy, grey and more. We love the subtle pastel pink touches in this living room.

BLACK –

Black is never out of style but we will see a lot of black across the board this coming year. furniture, wall paint, accessories, wall paper….oh my!

BLUE (especially navy)-

We definitely saw a lot of navy in 2015 but it will remain in the ‘trending’ category in 2016. Furniture, accessories and certainly paint – we will see a lot of painted furniture in navy blue and even kitchens. The image below is a great example of painted navy furniture combined with some shiny details

FLORALS (big and bold)-

Think oversize big florals in art and accessories. Still feminine but with a modern twist.

What’s great with these up coming trends is that many of them work well together. Try black and gold, gold and fur, fur and black, navy and gold, gold and pink, pink and navy…..the possibilities are endless

How do you feel about these trends?
Do you see yourself embracing any of them in your rooms?

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HOME DECOR, HOME STAGING, TRENDS

Home Staging and Decor Trends

March 30, 2015

Decor Trends and Home Staging are really important when putting your home on the real estate market. A big part of staging your home is making it look current. In the final steps of prepping your home for the real estate market you want to make it pretty, buyer ready and photo ready. One way to do that is knowing what decor trends are out there and bring them into your home. Since 95% of buyers are online first trying to find the home of the dreams…you need to make your photos stand out and attract those buyers!

1. Outdoor spaces –

Assuming the weather is working in your favour – stage your outside. Staging is about creating the vision of what life in the home would look like and including the outdoor living areas is critical! This staging trend is probably one of the most essential and we see so many sellers not have their outdoor areas staged. Remember a photo is worth a thousand words.

Clean up the outside – rake, cut the grass, plant some colourful flowers, set up the patio and prepare it as though you have guests arriving any minute!

2.White Kitchens –

Huge ‘trend’ now for home owners is light, white, bright kitchens! In a recent Houzz survey an overwhelming amount of respondents desired a white kitchen in their home. When the kitchen comprises almost 30% of the buyer’s decision (according to NAR – National Association of Realtors) a little more expense in this main area makes a world of difference in price!

Can’t replace the entire kitchen or paint the cabinets? Look at updating the back splash (or adding one) in a light tone, update the kitchen lighting to make the kitchen light and bright, paint the walls in a lighter tone and/or update the hardware.

3. Birds On Display –

The bird in the pillow is just a taste of what we will see more of in the future. Whereas last year’s trend was the white porcelain deer head on the wall and horses, this year’s trend is sweet, little birds. Right now, birds are hot for spring and every spring we tend to see animals and florals pop into all decor.

If you home is going on the market in the spring – think about adding some ‘nods’ to spring like floral, birds or any botanical elements. Currently, the hot trend is peacock but any bird in spring is up to date

4. Metallic accents –

Framed mirrors, art or brass bar carts add warmth and sophistication in any room. Metal accents add an element of shine to any room and they add some sophistication too. Right now warm metals are hot like gold, brass and copper. So think about adding a few touches of those in decor pieces, frames of mirrors, lamp bases even occasional tables.

5. Pops of colour –

Colour can help you stand out from the crowd. Even a neutral space could benefit from a floral arrangement in bright yellow or orange. If your home decor style can handle it, try adding some colourful pillows to the sofa or bed and a throw blanket. Colours like yellow, orange and bright green are perfect for spring but coral, aqua and purple can also make a big impact when used in small doses.

6.Dual Coffee Tables –

Placing two coffee tables next to each other to scale a larger space is a much better staging solution than just one. This is also a great way to add surface space to a small room. Look for side tables, benches even stools (as long as they are the right height, 16″ to 21″) to be used as a coffee table

7. Clear Tables, Chairs, Lamps and More –

Glass has always been an excellent staging tool because of it’s reflective nature and ability to create more light in what would probably be a dark corner. Glass is great because it gives the surface space without the bulk. If you are selling a condo or a smaller space – try a glass dining table and pair any style of chair you like. It makes the room look nice and big and you still are showing off how to live in the space. Glass furniture comes in a variety of styles too, and price points! You can use the ‘buddy system’ too so if you have a glass dining table add some glass elsewhere maybe a side table or in a lamp….

8. The Navy Comeback –

Navy blue is making a come back in a huge way! Navy just stole our hearts originally via patterns like chevron, ikat (see below) and floral but now it’s really making it’s presence known as a “new neutral” that pairs well with yellow, turquoise, coral, chartreuse, wheat …almost all of the spring 2015 hues that add pop to a space. Navy is one of those versatile colors that can work with bright or earth tone accents (just open your latest Pottery Barn catalog to see it with earth tones). If your space has a lot of neutral beige, cream or sand tones add navy for a rich contrast and timeless combination.

Photo from EmilyClark.com

Just a few tips and tricks can make all the difference…

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