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we-answer-wednesday-10-classic-colour

“We are looking to update our space.  It’s very neutral and we want to add some colour.  We have a medium sized budget and are willing to spend on some quality pieces but we want to make sure we have colours that aren’t too trendy.  What would you suggest?”

When it comes to updating your space, accessories is an easy and affordable solution.  A new pop of colour can really transform the look and feel of a space. When it comes to updating your space – don’t worry too much about trends, if you love something (a colour, texture, print etc…) than bring it into the room.  The great thing about having a neutral palette to start with is that it will work with anything! Colour can really set the tone and the mood of a space – so take a look at colour and think about how it makes you feel as it will bring that feeling into that room.

We definitely have some classic colour combinations that will never go out of style.

Take a look at these combinations and see how they make you feel.

1. BLACK AND WHITE –

Of course this is top on our list, it is a classic like no other! black and white can be too much contrast for some but you can add to it to soften up the look – in this image we love the addition of the natural elements and textures.  But this combo is so incredibly versatile, it really depends on the pieces you choose.  This can be super glam, it can be country and everything in between! This is really about the pieces you choose.


Photo from Homedit.com

2. TURQUOISE, COBALT AND SKY BLUE –

These colours work with all neutrals and any style.  Just because we are working with blues doesn’t mean you have to have a coastal look.  We love these fresh blues paired with a glass table with clean modern lines. We also love mixing the various tones of one colour.


Photo from 57sparklegirl.tumblr.com

3. BEIGE, BLUE, GREEN AND GREY –

Mixing soft neutrals and then adding some pop of colour is a great way to liven up a room! Forget the old rule of not “mixing green and blue unless it’s in the washing machine” – these hues look great together! We also love to see these colours in prints – it really gives the room a designer feel.


Photo from Eye for Design

4. CHARCOAL, CREAM AND BEIGE –

You cannot go wrong with neutrals! Some think that beige and grey cannot be mixed together but they absolutely can! This room is full of neutrals but mainly a deep charcoal, white and beige.  To keep it from being boring this room has some great texture (see the decorative twigs, the sisal area rug, marble fireplace surround, mirrors and the matching rattan ottomans). The pattern pillows also add some great visual interest to keep the space from looking boring.


Photo from renoguide.com.au

5. WHITE, BROWN AND GREEN –

Green is a very fresh colour and adds instant life to any room. Paired with white and brown it adds a nice pop to a simple palette.  We love how it is versatile with styles. In this image we see a modern eclectic spin but this would work so well with a country decor style.


Photo from Remodelista

6. GREY, BLUE AND WHITE –

Colour is great in the kitchen too! Such a fresh and clean combination! Look at this fabulous kitchen with the grey/blue island and soft white/grey cabinets, white stools, white walls and those blue and white pattern stools make this whole kitchen space and eating area look welcoming and chic.  This is a great colour palette for any room and we love how the wood adds warmth and character, too!


Photo from Citrine Living by Tamara Anka

7. WHITE, ORANGE AND  NAVY –

This is a fresh combination and it really works with any style.  If you like a nautical vibe try adding some natural elements like sea grass or sisal on the floor, some wicker pieces too.  We also love this colour combo in a boys’ bedroom. But this also works with a classic contemporary look like this image.  This is a very clean look.


Photo from Pottery Barn

8. WARM GREY, WARM WHITE AND BURNT ORANGE –

We love this gender neutral palette and it is perfect for every room including nurseries! We have been seeing a lot of orange in home decor but we love it in nurseries.  We are seeing more and more gender neutral rooms for babies, so that mom, dad and baby (and future babies) all feel great in the space.  The burnt orange is a bit softer than a true and pure orange. The warm white and warm grey are still very popular neutrals as well.


Photo from Apartment therapy

9. SILVER AND AQUA –

You may think that aqua is on the trendy side and yes there have been years where we have seen a lot of this hue but it never seems to disappear completely, which is why we are including it in our classic combinations.  Blend this soft aqua tone with silvers and grey, this is so soothing and stylish.  This is perfect for a bedroom, we love it in a guest bedroom but it is wonderful in main living spaces too.


Photo from COCOCOZY

10. GRASS GREEN AND YELLOW –

This is a fresh colour combination that also has a lot of warmth.  If you are a nature lover, this is a great palette for you as it really combines those lovely spring tones.  If you feel this looks a bit country but you like the colours….think about opting for some gold and glass accents like lamps, coffee and end tables.  Add some more classic pattern as well.  These colours work with any style.


Photo from Brabourne Farm

When it comes to adding colour to your space, you can add a much or as little as you like.  We suggest starting off slow – especially if you are trying a new colour and you aren’t a risk taker.  Take a look at these classic combinations and pick the one that really ‘speaks’ to you and go for it – it only colour!

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we-answer-wednesday-how-to-layer-your-lighting

“I have overhead lighting in my living room but it still looks and feels dark most of the time.  How can I improve the lighting in my living room?”

This is a great question and actually a very common concern. More often than not, homes are not designed and built with a lighting plan in mind.  Some builders are now offering that opportunity to buyers who have purchased from plans, to meet with an in-house design/decor consultant and review the lighting plans and they can make adjustments and some additions (at an extra cost).  But what about someone who has purchased an existing home? What can you do?

You still have options.  You could meet an electrician and see where you could add some extra ambient lighting sources such as pot lights.  But that can be costly.

Photo from tumblr.com  – This space uses different types of lighting – the ambient light from the ceiling fixtures and task lighting from the kitchen island pendants and the table lamps.  Look closely there are some candles on the coffee table too.

What you want to do and can do quite easily is layer your lighting. Think of your lighting plan a having 3 layers.  Each layer plays a role in the whole plan. Layering your lighting means to have different sources of lighting in one room.  Each source has a different function but they each contribute to the look and feel of the room. This way you can change up the lighting scheme throughout the day and to set the mood you like.  This is also a great idea for a room that serves multiple purposes (which is the case for most of us).

So what are the 3 types of lighting that should be in a room?

LAYER 1- Ambient lighting: this is the room’s overall light wash, this could be natural light streaming in from a window or it could be from overhead lighting.  This is your basic layer of lighting.  This type of light illuminates open areas, walls and main furniture pieces. For overhead ambient light, a dimmer switch is a great idea as it offers you options throughout the day to change it up with your mood. Examples of Ambient lighting include: overhead fixtures, pot lights, natural light beaming in from a window, and torchiere.

 

LAYER 2- Task lighting: this type of lighting is designed to help you perform activities at close range.  This type of lighting is more area specific.  For example, wall sconces or a swing arm floor lamp behind a chair is great for reading or a hanging pendant over a kitchen island are some examples of task lighting.  Task lighting is another layer in your lighting plan. Examples of task lighting include: table lamps, floor lamps, wall sconces, and swing arm lamps.

Photo from eclecticallyvintage.com

LAYER 3- Accent lighting: this style of lighting adds a touch of drama to your space. This really allows you to change up the mood in your room quite easily.  Accent lights really let you direct the eye to objects you want to draw attention to, for instance picture lights or candles.  This type of lighting adds warmth (as well as drama) to a space. Examples of accent lighting include: picture lighting, library lights, spot lights, track lights, mini chandeliers and candle light.

Photo from Mattamy Homes  – Another great example of layering your lighting.  We see here the overhead lighting from the ceiling fan (double duty piece) and the pot lights.  The table and floor lamps add some great task lighting, perfect for reading.  And the wall mounted candle sconces add some accent lighting when needed.

Playing with the 3 layers of lighting helps create the mood in the room.  So for a gathering of friends and family, to create a cozy mood use layers 1 (on a dimmer) and 2.  For a more romantic mood, try blending various types of layer 3 (only spotlights mixed in with some candle light is very seductive).

When you are making your lighting plan you can mix up the styles of lighting from one category.  So a room could have a large picture window letting in lots of natural light (depending on time of day) with a beautiful overhead fixture and a few pot lights in the bookcases with a matching pair of table lamps flanking the sofa and a floor lamp or wall sconce behind a reading chair.  Add in some candle light or even twinkle lights by the fireplace and you have a room with a layer lighting plan that allows you to set any mood you like.  Plus this way you have light throughout the entire room, so it will never feel dark.

Photo from Zillow

 

You can never go wrong with adding extra light sources in any room.

I hope this helped bring more light into your life,

 

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the-benefits-of-staying-neutral-in-home-decorating

You can ask anyone that knows me well or has least come to my home – I’m not overly colourful.

Don’t get me wrong I like colour, I like it a lot! My kids rooms are full or colour, prints, patterns and texture but for my main living space – I have remained neutral.

I love my home and my style at home.  I like neutrals.  Some might call it plain or boring but I have to disagree.

I love neutral decor, and I feel like there are some real benefits to remaining neutral.

1 – Neutrals are a classic.

They never go out of style, ever.  So if you decorate with neutrals you aren’t dating your space or making big commitments that might not work out.

2 – Neutrals work well with lots of texture.

Decorating in all neutrals gives you the chance to really get creative with mixing textures (and lots of textures) and of course print!My family room has printed drapery and pillows plus textures like brick, cowhide, shag, fur, knits and more.

3- Neutrals are calming.

Yes, some colours are too but I find the mix of neutral shades to create a calm and soothing space.

4 – All neutral spaces are easy to update.

Getting bored with an all neutral space? Adding a new accent colour is so easy and you have a lot of freedom to play with any colour you like!

5 – Neutrals work with neutrals.

When it comes to decorating, if you don’t know what you are doing or you can’t commit to anything opt for mixing neutrals, it’s a no-fail decorating scheme.  It always works and is always in style.  All neutrals work well together.

6 – Neutrals work with all styles.

If you like modern, country, traditional even industrial interior decorating styles, neutrals work with neutrals.  Take black and white for instance, depending on how it’s used and styled in can look country (think Buffalo Check), it can take on a glamorous feel in a more formal or traditional home or look very modern with crisp white walls with black decor accents.

Decorating your home should always be a reflection of your taste and style- so don’t conform to what’s trending – be yourself, that’s always in style!

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christmas-decor-for-everyone

Yes – there is Christmas decor for everyone and every style! Well…it’s about 1 month away – Christmas day! Have you decorated yet?

If you love to decorate but feel like Christmas just doesn’t blend with your style we have some news for you – this year there is something for everyone!

 

In the past, Christmas decor was all about a traditional look and sticking with a white, green and red motif with a touch of silver or gold; or, it was very child like and full of animation.

 

For the person that loves bright colour and even neon hues –

This option is for you….try a white tree with lots of bright and bold colour decor items! You can even find bright colour trees like aqua or pink.  We love a fun punch of colour and colour is so festive so why not opt for colour and fun this holiday season? Try adding some different elements to your tree to make it really unique like bright bows that are oversized and full or print, bright colour feathers from a craft store, bold neon baubles, ribbons, pompoms and so much more!

 

For the person that loves glitz and glamour…

Why not dress up your home for this Christmas in metallics? The shiny and reflective surfaces look so chic and sophisticated (timeless too).  You can stick with one metallic like silver and keep it so cool and clean or blend them all.  Mix in some glitter and crystals for a total glam look.  We love to see metallics mixed with white twinkle lights.  Paired with a white tree gives the look a more modern feel but paired with a classic evergreen makes it a bit more elegant, it’s up to you!

 

 

For the person that likes a more rustic look…

You can incorporate your favourite woodland animals like owls, deer and moose along with wood textures like birch, mix in some plaid and knit textures for a cozy cabin Christmas vibe. Burlap garlands around the tree, grapevine accessories and pine cones are easy and simple additions to any evergreen tree and will give the look that rustic country feel.

 

For someone who likes a more modern look…

Try a minimalist and monotone look.  Grey is a hot neutral and why not incorporate it into your Christmas decor motif? Pair it with some silver decor and you do not have to fill the tree with decor – keep it clean and simple. If you have grey in your home currently and like a tone on tone look this is a great option for you.

 

For the sports fan why not find a another way to display your team colours? 

Try a sports themed tree celebrating Christmas and your team! You can find logo decorations for all of the professional teams and college team plus you can easily find lights, ribbon, baubles and more in your team colours.  Go Team! Go Christmas!!

 

 

For the person that likes something a bit different but you want to nod to tradition somewhat…

why not decorate with an unexpected colour combination? Black and white are not your traditional Christmas colours but they are a classic combination, they look great together even on a tree. Add a fun pop like yellow or even aqua (Tiffany Blue like the tree here) for something really unique and eye catching.  Make the Christmas a part of your decor scheme!

 

 

For the fashionista or aspiring fashion designer…

Show off your flare for fashion with this dress form tree.  Dress this tree up how ever you like! Add as much bling as you like and in any colour – you can really take this idea to the next level and completely customize it! This tree truly has a style of its own!

 

 

For the person that loves the beach…

Try a coastal Christmas tree! Shells, starfish and silver dollars look amazing on a tree paired with soft pastel tones.  If you love Christmas and you love the beach this is perfect for you or if you live on the coast and want to compliment the surroundings this is a great look, too!  The beach themed items pair so nicely with the green tree and the silver tones and glass baubles.

 

 

For the person who loves the traditional colours but want to make a statement…

Make your tree a total designer showpiece and go over the top with oversized decor items all over your tree! To get this sculptural look you will need time, patience plus lots of floral wire but you can definitely achieve this fabulous look and it gives a fresh take on the traditional colours.

 

 

For the person that loves the snow….

A snow flocked tree is for you!  Take the look of nature, those stunning snow covered evergreens and bring it indoors – this is a great look with any colour scheme or style.  It works beautifully with bold and bright neon hues, the rustic look and even the more elegant and traditional looks. You can even transform your current artificial tree to a snow covered one with a little DIY

 

 

Remember when you are decorating for the holidays, keep the theme consistent – that will give your home that designer holiday look no matter which style you prefer.  Make sure that no matter your style – have fun!

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we-answer-wednesday-how-to-mix-forma

“I have inherited a more formal style dining table and chairs.  I like it but my own style is a bit more modern.  How can I use this furniture without completely changing my style?”

 

This is a great question!

And this is something that we are seeing more and more of…whether it’s inheriting family heirlooms or the merging of two people – mixing different styles of decor can seem very overwhelming but don’t let it stress you out!  What we love about merging different styles together is that you get a different end result every time.  Say good-bye to those cookie cutter rooms – this is where true individuality blooms!

 

Now that you know our own style is more modern, we assume that you have some updated pieces in your space already or you plan to purchase.  You have options how to incorporate this set into you life depending on how open you are to change. When it comes to modernizing a space you don’t necessarily have to change the furniture sometimes just updating the pieces around it can be enough!

 

CHAIRS –

Upholstery – a traditional set of dining room furniture would have some pretty traditional upholstery on the chairs so to make it more modern, get those chairs re-upholstered in a modern fabric.  You really can do anything – pattern, print, texture, colour – it’s up to you! This gives your dining chair a fresh look. You don’t have to go totally wild, you could stick with a timeless stripe but in a more current colour way or try an animal print like cheetah, oversized and bright florals can also ‘modern up’ a more formal chair.

 


* This old chair gets new life with a tie-dye upholstery in a charcoal and white – so unique, truly a one of a kind piece.

 

New chairs –

adding some new chairs with a more current look with give the whole set a new feel.  Matching sets are a bit more traditional so this one change will give the whole space a modern update.  You could mix up this option with the first option, and have more modern captain chairs and keep the traditional ones with the rest of the set.  Find a common thread between all of the chairs, so this is where upholstery comes into play.


*Look at how modern this room looks! The fresh white tulip chairs with pink seat paired with this dark stained traditional table – so unique! 

 

Paint –

we all know that paint can completely transform a room so imagine what it can do for furniture!  This is a big step, so if this is a valuable heirloom you might not want to exercise this option.  You will also want to get this done professionally.  Painting a traditional piece will give it new life and a whole new vibe in your space.

 


*Pairing this China cabinet in a Kelly green gives it a punch and an update in this space.  Also note the mix of chairs and varied prints in the room.  The pops of colour bring the more traditional pieces to life!

LIGHTING –

Statement piece –  so lighting makes a huge difference in a home.  When light fixtures look dated the whole space looks dated.  So to give your room a modern look, update that light fixture and make a statement! A modern traditional table with an interesting light fixture above it will give the whole room a fresh look plus it really shows off your decor style! (Always have your chandelier switch on a dimmer)


*This traditional table and area rug paired with a more casual chair makes the room less formal in look and feel.  Adding the industrial light fixture and the black and white abstract over sized art really gives this room so much flare.



WALLS –

Over sized art – this much like the light fixture can really give a room a fresh update.  Something about an over sized art piece not only looks expensive but it also looks fresh and current.  Think about displaying your favourite pieces in a different way – a gallery wall mixing old and new, or a more casual display where you lean and layer.


* sometimes is all about the presentation.  This room would have a very different look and feel if these art pieces were hung as opposed to the layered leaning style on the sideboard. 

Paint colour-

to give your dining room a more modern feel look at your wall paint colour.  Is it a mid tone? More modern looking spaces tend to choose a paint tone on either side of the spectrum – either dark or light. Before you pick a side, be sure to look at the items going in the room, like the furniture and the art pieces and of course, don’t forget about the light!

 


*The light walls allow for the table and the art to really pop in this space.

Wallpaper –

adding some visual interest to a wall in your dining space is another way to give that room a current look.  You can still hang your art pieces over the wallpaper – this will give the space a very designer look.  This is a great option if you don’t have a lot of wall space to hang art or if you have traditional looking wall panels that give the room a more traditional feel.


*In this room, because of the windows, there isn’t a lot of wall space for art so wallpaper on the wallspace is a perfect choice.  This also plays down the more traditional wall panels.

FLOORS –

Area rug – this is like art on the floor and it can really help set the tone for your dining room.  The possibilities are endless in terms of design, texture, colour and print.  Find something that you love and paired with a more traditional set this will  really give your room an updated look. One style that we are seeing a lot of is a perfect blend of a traditional rug but the colour has almost an ombre finish – so you get a traditional or even vintage vibe with a modern twist, so transitional!


*This area rug is the perfect mix of traditional and modern – the ombre effect makes it more current looking and also less formal.  It pairs nicely with the simple art, vintage furniture and modern light fixture 


Don’t feel that a more formal or traditional dining set will limit your style or change it completely.  Get creative! Incorporate that inherited piece with some modern elements to give your dining room a look that is totally unique and totally you!

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top-10-headboards

A headboard is an important elements in a bedroom.  It really is a centerpiece that helps anchor the room.  It gives the entire bed presence and can also set the tone for the style you want in your bedroom.

 

Here are some of our favourite headboard and tips on how they work with your style:

 

1. Headboard with ‘floating’ storage

So this is a very clean look.  It’s perfect for anyone looking for a bedroom that’s easy to clean (no dust will collect under end table legs) and because the end tables are floating they give the whole room a calm and zen like feel.  We love this look in a wood tone ad paired with soft tones and clean white.

 

2. Tufted Headboard

This look is a true classic and we have seen a real ‘comeback’ of this style.  It is great because it really works with any style – you can opt for a classic contemporary or even a vintage style.  It really depends on the colour of the upholstery and what you pair with it.

 

3. Rustic headboard

If you love the country or farmhouse look, than this is for you! These old windows have been converted into a headboard.  The aged paint give it a relaxed look and the window panels make the headboard look and feel lighter in the room.  Pair these with soft layers of linens or for a true country look opt for some small florals or even a gingham print.

 

4. Fabric panel headboard

This is an easy and affordable way to make a headboard.  This is also a perfect solution for a smaller room.  When you are tight on space, you need to be smart with your furniture choices.  We love a simple curtain rod with a drapery panel, it adds softness to the space and your choices of colour and pattern are endless, so you could even switch it out with the seasons or trends. This is also a great way to display a treasured quilt.

 

5. Rattan (Wicker) Headboard 

If you love a laid back natural or beach inspired look in your bedroom, this is a great option for you.  The texture adds some visual interest to the space and the natural material and tone give the room a relaxed feel. This looks great with lots of soft tones, especially blue tones. Pair the headboard with distressed finishes in cream tones to really maximize the laid back look in your room.

 

6. High headboard 

This really makes a statement in any bedroom.  We have seen these extra high headboards for a while, they aren’t as popular as they were a few years ago but they are perfect if you really want your bed to have great presence in your space. These come in a variety of styles, too.

 

7. Old Doors as a Headboard

This is a rustic yet romantic look for a bedroom but depending on how your style it, it can look country or vintage.  We love this headboard with a statement light fixture over the bed. The aged paint adds character, texture and a softness to the space.  If you love the shabby chic look – this is for you!

 

8. Decorative carved wood headboard

This is all over instagram!  We love the romantic look of this headboard and the detail work is just gorgeous – no need for an art piece over the bed when this is your headboard! Painted or natural this is spectacular.  When it comes to styling the room – go with your style, so keep the tones light or go dark on the walls to let the headboard really stand out – it’s up to you!

 

9. Wing back headboard

The ultimate in luxury and sophistication! This style is a true classic but like anything else you can add your own spin to truly make it yours.  We love this style in any colour or tone – dark or light, it’s up to you! This works with really crisp bedding, so not the best for anyone looking for a more boho look in their room…  This clean, crisp and balanced – tailored headboard is a stunning piece in the bedroom.

 

10. Low Headboard

This is great for a smaller room as visually the headboard won’t be taking up as much room.  This is a great option if your like a soothing almost zen style and feel in your space.  This is also a great option if you want larger art above your headboard. Try adding a floating shelf with some display decor items (ones that have meaning to you or just add to the overall look of your room) a low headboard gives you space for that, too!

 

 

There is a headboard for every style – make a statement in your bedroom that truly reflects your style…mix it up and put your personal stamp on it!

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hot-home-decor-trends-for-2017

As we slowly approach the end of another year, there is an excitement in the air! A new year means renewal, a fresh start but also new and fresh ideas! For home decor, we are excited to see what 2017 will bring to store shelves and magazine pages but we do have some predictions as to what we will be seeing in the new year for interior decorating.

 

1.  Neutrals:

Usually there is a ‘hot’ colour that we see emerge each year but this year expect to see a lot of neutrals.  White and black are classics and are never out of style but expect to see a lot of black and white trends for home decor.  Shades of grey will still be popular as well as cooler beige tones.

2.Wood:

We have already seen a comeback of wood in late 2016, we expect that trend will continue.  We will see wood in floors, furniture, art and accessories.  Wood with lots of texture and tones.

3. Global influences:

Every year it seems that interior decorating takes on some inspiration from somewhere in the world.  this year is no exception, this year expect to see a big surge of Scandinavian design.  There is more to Scandinavian influence than IKEA – white (like the snow), wood, simple design with a modern minimal edge are just some of what you can expect to see.

4. Ashy filter:

All of the woods, fabrics and other textures will all have a touch of a grey to them.  Almost as though they have been grey-washed or a grey filter to them.  This gives everything a toned down and cooler look – like driftwood.

5. Finish:

Expect to see a lot of matte or dull finishes in metals but also wood stains and paint.  High gloss is out.

6. Warm textures:

Smooth and sleek textures like glass and marble were once the hottest trends on the market but this year warm and natural textures will be hot for 2017. Such as wood, cork, sisal, rattan  leather, and knits.

7. Defined living spaces:

The ‘super’ open concept plans for living spaces where everything is in one big room won’t be as popular.  We won’t have tiny compartment rooms but we will have floor plans that are a mix of open and more traditional living offering some privacy and also designated spaces.

8. Purple, Blue and Green:

Although 2017 will be very much about neutrals we predict that purple, blue and green will be very visible this coming year.  This deep jewel inspired tones such as – plum, eggplant, blackberry, emerald, sapphire and amethyst. We will see this in accessories more than furniture.

We hope 2017 is your most stylish year at home, let us know how you plan on incorporating any of these trends in your home…

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we-answer-wednesday-matching-wood

“Do our wood stains need to match? We are looking to buy a new dining room table.  We like the idea of wood (but it doesn’t have to be wood) but we have wood floors – do we match the wood table to the floors?”

 

A new piece of furniture is a great update for any space and any style of decor. Wood is always a great option as it is durable and adds a natural texture to any space.  When it comes to wood, you don’t need to match and we really recommend that you don’t match it makes everything blend and look a little washed out and you won’t draw attention to the new dining table.

 

We suggest adding some contrast with your new table.  So if you have light floors opt for a darker stain table and vice-versa.

 

Other ways to get contrast with your wood floors is to opt for a table that isn’t wood at all!  Metal or glass are ways to get contrast and add some interesting textures to your space.

 

 

When it comes to your chairs, try a chair in a different tone or a different material all together – this gives the room some contrast as well but also shows off your personal style.  Depending on the style of chair you select this can either dress up or dress down your stable and give you the feel you want in your dining space. A dining room set with matching pieces tends to make less of a statement.

 

We love to see the different wood stains in a room but be sure that the stains have a common undertone and that you don’t have too many.  when all of your wood stains match it’s a bit washed out and when you have too many it’s too busy.  Aim for about 3.

 

 

Wood adds so much warmth to a space, it’s a great natural material to incorporate into any room. We love the character and texture it brings to a space but that can get lost if you over use it, so mix it up and let it be naturally beautiful!

 

 

 

 

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how-to-get-model-home-look-in-your-home

If you have ever been to a model home you have probably asked yourself  – ‘why doesn’t my home look like this?’ Well it can!  There are some easy and simple styling tricks that you can use at home to get that ‘model home’ look.

 

1. Keep it clean and de-clutter:

So you are living in the house and it can be tricky to keep clean but put together a cleaning schedule and do your best to stick to it – regular wiping down, cleaning or dishes and floors makes a huge difference.  Find some cute baskets or boxes to hold every day clutter like mail and flyers from school.  Commit to a purge (seasonally would be ideal) to get rid of the extra stuff that you aren’t using and haven’t used in a long time! You will be amazed at how much junk you hold on to – it feels great to let it go!

 

2. Floating furniture :

Not levitating furniture, but floating – in other words not pushed up against the walls.  Sure in some floor plans this is really the only choice but even just pulling it away an inch or two makes the space look and feel more intimate and designed. In a big open floor plan, separate the space with floating furniture that serves two distinct purposes, say a seating/conversation space and then a TV hang out space for a large and open living space.

 

 

 

3. Lighting:

Let there be light and lots of it! Not only does a brighter space feel bigger and cleaner but it’s a great way to update a space.  When you are adding lighting in your space think layers! So overhead lighting mixed with table and floor lamps etc…Layered lighting looks sophisticated but you can also play with the ambiance using your lighting.  Relying on one light source is a bit tired and one dimensional. also aim to have the light evenly distributed in the room (so not everything in one side or corner of the room).

 

 

4. Outdoors indoors:

Take a look at model home they always have some natural element – it could be a plant (large or small), natural herbs, floral arrangement or a bowl of lemons in the kitchen, branches or sticks in a vase, natural sponge in the bathroom – just some small natural touches can do wonders in a space.  It adds warmth and authenticity to the space.

 

 

5. Area rugs:

Are used to add colour and texture plus warmth but they also add a great visual effect in terms of creating designated spaces and functions. An open concept space with out any area rugs with floating furniture looks very lost but by adding the correct size area rug (even just in the living room) automatically grounds and defines the space.  Area rugs really are a must!

 

 

6. Bed:

Like the area rug – the bed really grounds or anchors the bedroom, this really is non-negotiable for a master bedroom.  You want the room and the furniture to have a strong presence.  Even a beautifully made/styled bed looks weak without a headboard.

 

 

7. Bookcases:

When it comes to bookcase we tend to see these 2 options.  1- complete jammed and over stuffed with books falling out, or 2 – sparse, bare and empty.  To get the designer ‘model home’ look bookcases are a great piece but they have to be balanced.  So books stacked in an organized fashion with some decor added in.  Carefully styled but still functional.  This gives the space style but it also isn’t over whelming.  Many think books in a bookcase is organized but when they are over stuffed the room feels heavy and cramped, and when they are falling out, it’s a mess! A bare bookcase looks light but it also looks weak and kind of pointless.

 

 

8. Drapery:

A great decorative feature that can also serve a function.  Yes, shades and blinds are go-to’s for privacy but add some simple drapery panels on either side of the window and you’ve got ‘wow-factor’!

 

 

The designer look doesn’t have to come with a big price tag! Follow these tips and you will have your home looking like a model,

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“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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