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HOME DECOR, STORAGE + ORGANIZING, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Multi purpose furniture

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“We love the idea of owning furniture that does more than just look nice. We want to have furniture pieces that we can use as storage and can do double duty. What are some suggestions?”
 
We hear from so many people that they want furniture that can do more than one thing. These days, we’re always multitasking, everyone is always trying to do it all, between work, friends, life, family, balancing everything is what humans do best, so why should our furniture be any different?
As much as we’re advocates for everything to be beautiful, we understand that somethings need to have another purpose than just being nice to look at. We get lots of people asking about small space decorating. What are the best items to purchase for storage and that also look great?

Here are a few suggestions of furniture pieces that can be multi-purpose, or do double duty.

 

Coffee Tables:

Instead of using a traditional coffee table, try an ottoman that opens up with storage inside. This is a great place to put your extra pillows and blankets or whatever you need to keep tucked away and don’t have a space for. This can also serve as extra seating in your living room if you don’t have enough for guests. Another option is to have a solid material coffee table but make sure it comes with ample storage. Whether it opens up, or has lots of shelves and drawers. Make sure you utilize all the storage you can.

TV Walls:

Obviously, most people have a TV. Instead of just using that as a media space, use the extra wall space for shelves as well. Decorative baskets, books, personal photos. Create a gallery wall and use all the space available to you.

Gallery walls are very on trend at the moment. Whether you create a modern, streamlined gallery wall, or an eclectic mix of all that you love – don’t let usable space go to waste!

 

Dresser instead of a Console:

Most people have a table at their front door for keys and decorative pieces. Instead of just having a table there, add a dresser with storage and shelving. Having this extra storage at the front door
can be very beneficial. You need spaces to put things like hats, mitts, scarves, mail etc. Having all these extra items hidden and organized will also be good for your mind. No clutter – no stress!
 

Hall Tree instead of just a bench at your entry:

Similar idea to the dresser at the front entry. Having a hall tree will give you the bench for added seating, it will also have hooks, and shelving, granting you more space for odds and ends. This is another great spot for kid’s coats, back packs, shoes, hats, mitts, etc. Having these hooks and extra shelving options will be helpful organization for the whole family.
 

Sofa Bed:

A sofa bed is a fantastic double-duty item. Most people need a sofa somewhere in their home. And lots of people could also use an extra bed for guests. Why not purchase a sofa that can be used in multiple situations? Get something stylish that also serves as a guest space.
 

Chest/Bench in the bedroom:

Do you have extra space in your room? If so, add a bench at the end of your bed. Same idea as the ottoman suggestion. Add a storage bench at the end of your bed for items like pillows and blankets. Maybe even seasonal clothes. Not into the idea of a bench? Try an antique chest. Something that will add additional functionality to your home.
 

Bookshelf as a Room Divider:

Depending how large your space is, you may need to break up some open concept areas. Having a book case used as a room divider is a great option for storage and privacy as well. This is a great place to add accessories and accents as well such as picture frames and books. If you have an open concept space, or a studio space, a lot of times, you lose that extra wall space. Not having the wall space to add all these extra pieces is sometimes a downfall, but utilizing the space you have in smart way will contribute to an organized home.
 
 Double duty pieces are the way to go – you get the most out of your furniture!
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HOME DECOR

Black and White Home Decor

black-and-white

Black and White is a classic!  It is always “in” and works with so many different styles of decor.  Here are a few of our favourite rooms in black and white.

This condo living room is gorgeous! We love a consistent colour palette in smaller spaces but what’s so effective here is all of the white-on-white and accents of black and silver.  The white walls and furniture blend together making the space feel so much bigger.  The glass and silver add so much glamour to the space.

Another stunning living room, we love that this black and white has some ethnic elements with the choices of print and pattern but also materials.  We love to mix patterns but also materials.  The small touches of gold add some shine to the room

This dining area is relaxed but still modern.  The clean, black table paired with Eiffel chairs keeps it cool but the mix makes it relaxed.   The over sized lighting also makes a big statement in the room adjoining rooms.

We love an accent wall and in black and white so chic! This stripe wall in this work space adds instant drama.

Black and White is the bedroom is so chic.  We love the over sized mirrors with mini chandeliers in this bedroom paired with the modern bed frame make this space very unique but still very stylish.

We love the simple glamour of this bedroom.  The full and fluffy white bedding with lots of layers against the black wall is so chic.  And the added detail on that black wall just takes it to the next level. The sphere chandelier is modern but with a classic twist.

We love black and white photography, gallery walls, pillows, prints, area rugs and so much more.  when it comes to decorating your space in this classic contrast don’t be afraid to mix up prints and textures.  In fact you really should so that you get a chic designer look .

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HOME DECOR, STORAGE + ORGANIZING, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – stylish TV stands

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“I have a typical, TV media stand right now and I find it such an eye sore in my home. What are some unique ideas to use as a media stand in my living room?”
 
 
We agree! While the typical, glass media stand is a cheap and easy option but it certainly doesn’t enhance the style of a space. There are tons of great options that are not necessarily the ‘typical’ option but will look fabulous!

Here are 7 suggestions for ‘unique’ media stands.

 
 

1. A dresser:

Depending on how much space you have in your living room this is a fantastic option for a few reasons. It is GREAT for storage, it will hide cords and it is a unique option to have. You don’t have to choose a typical bedroom dresser, maybe a decorative option with some detail work, or some curves to the wood, perhaps in a bright colour. The flexibility with a dresser is awesome. Just make sure that the height works for your space. If you are using a lower, more modern dresser, it helps to check the height of your sofa to ensure its not too low to comfortably watch.
 

2. A chest:

Depending again on the height, having a chest with or without detail is a unique look. This is also a great
way to hide any cords etc since a chest is typically bulky.  There are so many different colours, styles, sizes and finishes to choose from! A great way to personalize your space.
 

3. A console table:

A clean lined, simple console table with a bit of storage is a great space saving option. You can hide any wires by adding baskets underneath, or a small bench or ottomans. This is very versatile and comes in many options, depending on your décor and the size of your home. Make sure that you have enough depth to hold the items you need to.
 

4. A fireplace:

Before committing to this though, make sure you have checked that your TV can with stand the heat that a fireplace will generate. For some people, having their TV over mounted or resting on the fireplace is a fabulous space saver as well as a great look!
 

5.  A bench:

Be sure your bench is sturdy enough to handle the weight of a TV but this could be a great small space solution because it won’t add a ton of bulk but pay attention to the height.

6. TV Easel:

We love this option but understand it isn’t necessarily budget friendly.  This is a great option for spaces where your wall space is limited (hello condo dwellers) plus these come of wheels so they can be moved around if you need room in your main living space if you are hosting a larger TV free party!

7. Bookcase:

Having a lower bookcase is another fantastic idea for a small space. This will incorporate a ton of storage and hold your TV – so practical!! You can never have enough storage. Plus, this is a great idea for showcasing accessories as well as being functional – doesn’t get much better than that!!
 
I believe even your most functional pieces can be stylish –
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HOME DECOR

7 Easy Ways to add a little Colour to your world

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It’s officially November and we can all see it, not just on the calendar but outside, too!  The days are shorter, the leaves have fallen off of the trees and those beautiful fall colours have turned to grey….everything is just a little dreary.  So maybe it’s time for a change, a dash of colour and some fun at home.

The easiest way to make a change to your space to liven it up is with colour.  Here are some of favourite (and easy) ideas to add some pop to your decor.

1 – Florals.

This is perfect for anyone non-committal, fresh flowers don’t last for after about 10 days – they will need replacing. Or try some silk flowers, these keep, they are low maintenance and you can bring them out when ever our home needs an extra boost! They look great in bedrooms, bathrooms, on coffee tables and more….

2 – Art.

Such an easy way to add as much or as little colour as you like.  Any style of art piece can have colour from abstract to landscapes – go with what you love.  You can use the colours in that piece as an inspiration for adding even more colour in that room, so not, it’s up to you!

3 – Area rugs.

Think of them as art on the floor.  This is a great way to make a statement in any room.  Mixing colour and pattern can really transform a room.  The options are endless!

4 – Drapery.

A fun way to add colour, pattern and texture to your space.  This can really wake up a neutral space.  Like area rugs – the choices are plentiful…

5 – Small furniture pieces.

Keep your main furniture pieces neutral but try adding an accent chair, side table or stool in a colour.  This is unique and it’s a great way to show off your personality.  We love this kitchen with orange stools – it really adds some fun to a mostly white on white space.

6 – Decor pillows.

This is probably the easiest way to give your room a colourful update.  We love to mix bold colours, patterns and complimentary colours against a neutral sofa or bed.

7 – Accent wall.

If you feel you need a bigger change, consider a painting accent wall in a fun colour or splashy wallpaper.

Colour your world – add a little or a lot …

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HOME DECOR

What is Scandinavian Style?

scandinavian-style

Scandinavia has a long heritage of beautiful home furnishings. Scandinavians are renowned for incorporating clean lines, using the color white like total pros, and emphasizing both function and form.

You might think that Scandinavian style is that famous yellow and blue store with ‘assemble yourself furniture’ that comes in boxes.  but Scandinavian style is more than that!

If you love a clean and minimal look that embraces natural elements, Scandinavian might be your style!

Scandinavian style includes…

1 – Light toned wood.

2 – A rug with one pop of colour…

Maybe…but usually they are neutral, black and white are often seen in this style of decor.

3 – Lots of white, and white on white

4 -Simplicity is key

When it comes to hardware in the kitchen and bathrooms, clean lines and minimal to no detail.

5 – Invest in classics.

Scandinavian style is very minimal so you will only have a few decor items, so it’s worth investing in them. For example, a glass vase by designer Alvar Aalto

6 – Signature ‘Scandinavian’ pieces

Furniture pieces that embrace the Scandinavian style like the Tulip Table

7 – Gallery walls with a monochrome colour palette.

Not cluttered at all – it’s a very clean look in a consistent and neutral colour palette.

8 – Pendant lighting is essential and an important decor feature in the room.

It is functional but also decorative. Plan the room around it

9 –  Plants.

Streamlined and clean in a simple planter or vase.  But every Scandinavian styled room has a plant.

10 – Wood flooring.

Think wider, lighter planks with visible knots and minimal to no gloss.

11 – Make a point of having and highlighting the fireplace.

In Scandinavian styled homes, we often see corner fireplaces and furniture plans are often designed around them.

12 – Open Shelving.

For functional items like dishes in the kitchen.  It’s about easy access and operating effectively.


Scandinavian style is all about simplicity, it is clean and minimal but has a signature look. Scandinavian style isn’t just IKEA…

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HOME DECOR

The Golden Rule : How To Decorate with Gold

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For 2016, GOLD is hot!

We saw this metallic used in home decor in 2015 but this coming year it will be everywhere.

Gold is a great way to add some shine to your space but it also can add a touch of glamour or tradition depending on how you use it.  One of the great things about gold is that it works with every colour.  Paired with navy, black, white or cream it is a classic but try getting a little ‘edgy’ by pairing it with pinks, aqua, grey and prints.

When you think gold in the home you probably think fixtures like hardware, plumbing and lighting but think again….gold can be used in many other ways.


We love gold in this bedroom.

A touch of glam, modern and tradition.  The touch of gold in the hardware and the lamp base adds some sparkle and shine.  Adding these gold elements to the high lacquer and clean lined gives the room a bit of a clean modern feel.

You don’t have to go overboard when it comes to gold.

A few touches here and there really go a long way.  We love the gold edging on this coffee table and bar cart.

Re-think gold in your light fixtures.

We love this pendant.  The modern lines and angles make it simple but still interesting and having it in gold…adds some simple glamour.

Look at frames in your home, mirrors or photos, a touch of gold adds some bling and personality to any room.  We love the gold frame mirror in this powder room

 

Pillows in a gold finish is so glamorous and gorgeous!

Pair is with some texture and voila! – instantly chic!


Make a statement with bold, gold art! We love the mix of shades of pink, beige, white and gold.  Girly and fun!

Gold accessories on a coffee table, bookcase or mantel – elegant and modern.

Look for bowls, vases and candle sticks in gold for a touch of glam.

Gold furniture  is so sophisticated and modern.  We love this gold base with glass top paired with upholstered chairs.  It’s the perfect balance of traditional and modern.

 

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HOME DECOR, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Finding my Decorating Style

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“I really want to decorate my condo and have it look amazing.  But where do I start? Do I look at what’s trending? Or copy what I see in magazines? I really need help and have no idea where to start!”

 

Decorating your home is so much fun but it can be stressful for some – we don’t want you to have a negative experience, after all this is your home, your space, your sanctuary !

 

Magazines are a great start.

Here’s what we recommend:

start leafing through magazines (start in a bookstore, we love Chapters, they always have a large and varied selection) – (you can also look online – try Houzz or Pinterest.)

So start looking through your magazines and keep a file (yes, rip out those pages!) and take some notes on what you love about the page – post-it’s are easy and perfect for this!

Collect a number of images and once you have a decent amount (10-20)- stop and review.  Look at the images, look at your notes…do you see a pattern?

You probably will notice a common theme – like colour, pattern, texture, style….or perhaps something more specific like wallpaper or bold and graphic art.

This exercise is a great way to start and get a better idea of your taste and style.  Don’t use words like “I’m modern or I’m traditional”, images will give you a much better idea of what you are all about!

 

Another great tip for decorating, is to ask yourself “how to I want this room to feel?”

Do you want a sexy or romantic bedroom?

Do you want a vibrant and exciting living room?

 

Use your interests as decor influences.

Maybe you love to travel and you want your space to remind you of your travels – “I want a room that reminds me of Italy, France, Morocco….etc…..” did you collect art or other artifacts on your adventures? Use those items in your decorating.  They will give the space a sense of who you are and what your story is.

Trends are great to read about but if you don’t love what’s ‘#trending’ don’t do it! Your space needs to reflect your story – not what someone tells the masses is cool.

Don’t be afraid!

If you love something you will find a spot for it.  Don’t be afraid to mix patterns and colours and brands/price points, an expensive sofa paired with a re purposed/recycled thrift store find like a bench or end tables – is what personal style is all about!

Personal style is all your own – so don’t worry about doing what everyone else is doing.

March to your own beat!

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HOME DECOR, TRENDS

2016 Trends for the Home

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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

Mad About Plaid – How and Where to Use Plaid in your Home Decor

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Now that fall is almost here, we are seeing so many cozy and comfy textures like knits and flannels.  Plaid is one print that we see so much of this time of year – it just screams Fall!!  We love the look and feel of flannel plaids and they add so much comfort to any room.

Here are some of our favourite plaid looks for the home.

The plaid throw –

Just wrap it around yourself while reading or sitting by the fire.  It’s also great in a bedroom.  Here we love it in the casual dining space at the head of the table.  Why not?

Black and White Plaid –

Many think of reds, greens and blues when they hear the word ‘plaid’ but there are so many other colour options, so there’s something for everyone.  We love the black and white plaid in this room. It adds a cozy factor to this off white wing back chair.

Boys’ Bedroom –

We love plaid in a bedroom and it’s perfect for boys! Durable, soft and comfortable plus they add some pattern and texture to the space without making it feel and look feminine.  This grey and white boys bedroom looks great with the pops of orange plaid.

Decor Pillows –

A plaid throw is perfect for a farmhouse or cabin look.  It’s the right amount of plaid and it doesn’t take over the space.  We love this chic farmhouse inspired living room with tone-on-tone plaid pillows mixed with some knitted pillows.  Totally chic and comfortable!

Vintage Country Plaid Chair –

Plaid is a classic and if you love a farmhouse or vintage country style at home, try adding plaid to a furniture piece.  in our opinion a sofa is just to much but a chair or even a headboard would really make a statement. We love this streamlined chair in plaid – it has comfort and style plus paired with the soft better yellow and the styled chest of drawers you have a level of sophistication.  Country is totally cool!

If the cabin look is more your style, try a different type of plaid but we still love the idea of sticking with a classic and neutral colour palette. The image below has similar concept just more of a cabin or shabby chic angle.

Bedding –

We love plaid in the bedroom but again you want to choose the right one for your look and colour palette.  We love the subtle and soft beige and white combination in this room.  It is perfect for a guest room or for anyone who likes a toned down and calming space. We love the mix of solids and the plaid in this room and the vintage bed frame and sconce lighting keep it from looking washed out.

Wall paper, why not?

This might seem bold and extreme but it doesn’t have to be.  We love the soft and subtle look of this room and the beige and cream wallpaper accent wall just makes the room feel cozy but still works well with the elegant nature of the room.

On the floor –

We love a patterned rug and plaid works! Opt for a neutral toned plaid but it really adds some great visual interest in a room and it’s a classic pattern on the floor just gives it a modern twist.

The nursery –

This could work for a girl or a boy or just a gender neutral nursery.  This drapery, or bedding, or pillows or rugs.  But not everything.  The casual nature and the comfort would make the nursery a wonderful space for everyone even during those late, late night feedings and diaper changes.

Are you mad about plaid? We are!

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BEDROOMS, HOME DECOR

Small Bedrooms with Big Style

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When it comes to decorating your bedroom, the possibilities are really endless.  It is your own private retreat from the rest of the world – so it really is YOUR space! This is the perfect blank canvas to express your personal style and surround yourself with what you love!

 

Forget the ‘rules’ and go for it! Colour, pattern, print, texture…all at once, why not?

Not sure what do to? Here are some ideas to get you started

1. ACCENT WALL –

This can be as bold or as subtle as you like.  It’s up to you.  An accent wall in the bedroom is best located where the headboard will be – for maximum impact.  Wallpaper is a great option but paint is too.  We love the softness of a understated accent wall. This is a great example of a tone on tone bedroom with a romantic touch

But you can also be bold and expressive with deep or bright colours and print. this deep Sapphire blue painted accent wall adds some punch to the room

Another great way to make a statement on your headboard wall is with a gallery wall.  A collection of art, photos and more is so special and personal and ideal for a bedroom. What’s great about the gallery wall in this room is the mix of frames – the white frames blend in with the wall colour so you don’t get a cluttered look.

2 – OVER SIZED ART

– in any space adds instant luxury and make a room look and feel expensive.  Like an accent wall it can be bold or subtle and it makes impact but you don’t need the commitment of paint or wallpaper.

3 – SIMPLE YET STYLISH BEDDING

– it never goes out of style so you could invest (you will notice a difference in feel and quality).  Plain white has that boutique hotel look but if that’s too simple for you opt for a clean and crisp design (stripe, chevron or a clean floral). If you like a little more colour and pattern in your bedding opt for a throw blanket or quilt at the foot at the bed and some throw pillows.

4 – LIGHTING

– make a statement with some amazing lighting.  A chandelier over the bed is a great touch but if you don’t have that ability try some sconces (perfect for reading and for smaller bedrooms) or some incredible table lamps. Even with recessed lighting you will want to bedside lighting for reading and other tasks.  Layering your light allows more light in the room.

5 – INCREDIBLE HEADBOARD

– a headboard is another great way to make a statement and express your personal style.  We are seeing over sized, tufted, printed, leather, wing back, nailheads, reclaimed barn wood and so many more.  The headboard is a great focal point in the room and you can get so creative with it.

6 – FLANKING MIRRORS AND ART

– this adds that instant ‘designer look’ to your bedroom.  By flanking either matching mirrors or coordinating art work on either side of the bed above the bedside tables, you get an elevated look. Plus it helps visually widen the room.

7 – STORAGE WITH STYLE

– we all need storage in our bedrooms but in a smaller bedroom storage is a must.  Since your storage pieces will be on display be sure to find attractive ones – a beautiful jewelry box, a dish for everyday jewelry pieces, hat boxes for belts and scarves, end tables with a drawer and an open space for reading materials are some great ideas. Under the bed is a great space for luggage or clear plastic bins for seasonal items – hide that area with a bed skirt.

8 – ACCESSORIES

– have a way of pulling a room together.  Accessories also are a great way to show off your taste, talents and interest.  You don’t want to go over board but a few well placed accessories can go a long way! We love basics like plants, candles and photo frames but look for cool items that speak to you. We also love a great area rug to add some softness to the room plus you can get really creative with colour, pattern and texture.

No matter the size of your bedroom, it should be your oasis to escape from it all!

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