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HOME DECOR, HOME STYLING, TRENDS

All About the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

fiddle-leaf-fig-tree

Have you noticed these Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees? They are everywhere! check out Instagram, Pinterest, Design magazines and home decor TV shows – this tree is trending!

So What is a Fiddle Leaf Fig?

This tree is known as a flowering tree in a tropical rain forest setting – but they have since been adopted as an indoor houseplant and that version doesn’t produce fruit (figs). As a house plant, these beauties do best in temperate climates. It’s called a ‘fiddle leaf’ because of it’s broad leaves that are shaped like a lyre or a fiddle.

How to care for your Fiddle Leaf fig tree?

Like all plants this variety needs watering but only water it once the soil is dry.  How often it needs water depends on the climate and surroundings. So keep checking your soil and water when dry.  The fiddle leaf fig needs light but not direct sunlight. Their broad leaves can get very dusty so yes, dust your plant with a soft cloth to keep it clean!

Why are fiddle leaf fig trees so popular right now?

There doesn’t seem to be a real reason for why this plant has grown in popularity recently.  These plants have been around for a long time but they are really emerging in home decor lately. Like other home decor trends we see these in flowers and plants, too.  I remember when Gerber Daisies were all the rage! This plant has a great sculptural presence, the green is very vibrant and it works well with the neutral, minimal and Scandinavian styles that are really popular right now.  It adds a great texture and visual elements and adds a wonderful contrast with the lighter tone walls e are seeing a lot of right now.

How and where to decorate with the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree?

This plant is a great space filler for a corner that needs a little something.  The beautiful shade of green and the oversized leaves add a visual interest to any room.  These look great in living rooms and bedrooms.  Try using a beautiful pot or contain to keep your fiddle leaf fig tree, these woven baskets look great but so do clean looking clay pots.  It dresses it up a bit more than plastic pot you find in the garden store.

Where can you purchase a Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree?

You might be fortunate enough to have access to these lovely plants in a local nursery or home garden shop but we have also found some online options where they can be shipped directly to your home.

This is a great option from Amazon – it measures 3 – 3.5′ high and yes, it’s real!

 

Another great affordable option from Wayfair – a favourite home decor shopping destination – because they really do have everything!

This option is another economical choice, you have height options – and you can select your planter style too!

 

What do you think of this tropical and trending houseplant?

 

SHOP PLANTS FOR THE HOME…

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HOME DECOR, HOME STYLING, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to Style a Front Entry

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“I have a small table in my front hall.  It’s great for mail and keys but it’s a bit messy!  I want my front entry to look welcoming and neat – any ideas how to make my entry table look stylish?”

 

An entry table in the front hall is a very functional piece.  You are right it is perfect for mail and keys but it can become a bit of a dumping ground.  A lot of that is habit  so you need to train yourself (and others) to put things like backpacks and other items elsewhere i.e a closet, office or bedroom.

 

But we also believe that if your space is beautiful (by your definition) than you will be more motivated to keep it that way.

 

The front entry table sets the tone for your home and can also be an inviting first impression for guests.

 

Styling your front entry table is all about using the space in a beautiful and practical way. 

Here are some musts:

 

1 – Light

– many front entries have an overhead light fixture but in our opinion you can never have too much light.  Plus having a table lamp on the entry table (assuming you have a wall outlet for it) is handy if you arrive home late or leave early and don’t want to wake the whole house with bright overhead lighting.  When it comes to table lamps you have some many choices – find one that suits and flows with the look of your home. How many lamps should you have? We say one is usually sufficient especially if it is a small space with a small table but if you have a long table in a large entry, 2 table lamps is a nice balance.

 

2- Mirrors

– we love mirrors at the front entry – they play two roles, 1: a great way to take a final look at hair, make up etc…before you head out to wherever you are off too; 2: it allows light to bounce around the room making a smaller and tighter space like an entry feel larger.  If you already have a mirrored surface, like mirrored closet bi-fold doors, opt for an art piece instead.

 

3 – Storage

– part of the front entry is storage, so make it pretty! A bowl on the table is perfect for keys or loose change, it keeps it all contained, easy to access but also hidden (so the surface looks neat).  We also love a basket for two under the entry table – this is ideal for mitts, hats in cooler weather but also summer gear like hats and sunscreen.  Have a dog? Hide their leashes etc. in a basket. Again easy access but neat!

 

4 – Seating

– this is a nice addition if you have the space.  Under the entry table is a great spot to tuck away a small bench, cube ottoman…  Pull it out when guests neat a spot to sit and put on their shoes.  This is also another way to add to your decor – you can have one with some print, colour and/or texture.

 

5 –  Decor

– we’ve covered the necessities of the front hall table and now it’s time to add your personal style! There are many decor items that you can add to the table to add your touch – framed photos, flowers or a plant, or just a decorative item.  Be sure to have room for the necessary pieces and then layer your decor.  The amount of decor depends on the amount of space you have.  We like to vary the heights and shapes and stick with odd numbers.  Keep in mind if your entry table is more functional or decorative (some people have a second entry that is more functional and keep the front entry more beautiful)

 

 

Also if you are selling your home, remember that your potential buyers will also be walking in the front door.  A styled front entry sends a great message and sets the tone.  So be sure to pay attention to your front entry!

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HOME DECOR, HOME STYLING, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How To Style My Bedside Tables

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“My bedroom is beautiful! I love the furniture and the bedding but my night stands are cluttered and it really makes my room look messy.  I need some help with my night stands – help me make them pretty, please!”

 

That’s a common problem for most of us.  Our bedside tables become an area for clutter – books, hand lotion, tissues, magazines, note pads, lip balm and more ….We still need these items , they are a part of our bed time routine but we don’t need (or want) clutter in a space that is supposed to be relaxing and serene.

 

So here are some of our tips for a stylish bed side. When it comes to styling a bedside table, we keep it simple with lighting, art and accessories like a plant/flower/decor piece and possibly books.  The combinations are really endless! Be sure to find items that are in proportion with the space.  A small room may need a small end table so don’t add over sized lamps – look for something slimmer or opt for a wall sconce. 

 

Using these basic pieces you can really achieve a number of different looks, be sure to put your personality into it, after all it is your space!

 

 

The night stand furniture piece –

So this item is a key piece.  You need to find a piece that works in the space but also one that suits your needs.  A night stand without any storage is pretty much useless and is just inviting clutter into your space.  Look for a piece with at least a drawer, so you can tuck away a few items you don’t want to display. Many night stands have a top drawer and then an open space below.  That open space can get crazy and cluttered very easily.  Consider using that space to stack books (or place them vertically) and if magazines are more your style – add a basket or box to keep them in, it looks so much better!

In some cases, like if you are in a room that has very limited storage you may even want a small chest of drawers that will play double duty as clothing storage and a night stand surface. Even if you can only fit one small chest of drawers it might be more functional and practical that two small night stands.

 

Lighting –

A must! For reading and for ambiance.  You always want to layer your lighting in order to suit your mood but also fill the room with light (when you need it).  So think table lamps – depending on the size of the table you may be able to go big and bold and make a ‘decor’ statement in the room.

If you are low on space, try a wall sconce!

They attach right to the walls so the surface space on your night stand is free for other items. Wall sconces have come a long way – there are so many styles on the market now and they really create a clean and streamlined look.

 

Art or Mirrors –

You have a number of options but these items really add to the decor of your room.  We love creating a vignette with art or a mirror above a night stand, it really pulls it together.

 

 

So this image has a bold headboard so art above the headboard was not needed or necessary to make a ‘splash’ instead two pieces were hung above the end table.  This is a clean and classic look but with the choice of prints and accessories this room feel easy and comfortable but looks stylish.

 

This room has a very clean palette.  The layering of the art piece and the mirror give it a cool and sophisticated look.  Simple but so chic.

 

This image shows a sunburst mirror centered over the night stand.  In this white room, this golden burst really makes a splash.  You could also swap this mirror out for an art piece.

 

 

Love the mini gallery wall look over this night stand.  Surround yourself with what you love! It could be art or beautiful photographs.  Look for pieces that preferably are calming and soothing.

 

Accessories –

This is really where you get really personal.  You can add just about anything to your bedside table for decor.  One tip – if you have kids who like to hop into your bed maybe stay away from glass decor!

 

In this image, the look is pretty clean.  A simple dish for jewelry, a clock and some framed photos.  The drawers could be filled with magazines, books and more but they are tucked away so it looks so neat and tidy!

For the book lovers – you can keep your favourite book at your side but try not to let your book take over the surface space.  It looks cluttered and messy.  Aim for a maximum of 3 books on your night stand.  Stack them up or even try a vertical arrangement.

Anytime we stack things it just looks neater.

We love some type of foliage – flowers, plants it doesn’t matter but it adds life to the room!  Small works best in most rooms but you may be able to use something with some height.

 

 

So once you have the items you want -start thinking about placement and arrangement.  It is a limited surface space so don’t too many or items that are too large.  Start with your art and mirror first, ten add your light and from there play with the additional decor items.

Other additions to think about – candles, a small dish for eye glasses and/or jewelry, a decor item, photo frames or a small clock – are also great additions to a night stand.

When it comes to styling…

– choose items that suit your style and taste
– stick with odd numbers 3 or 5
– play around with arrangements and items and let your instincts kick in…

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HOME STYLING, TRENDS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – 9 Gallery Wall Ideas

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“I love the look of gallery walls. I’m in the process of creating one in my own home right now but I want to add more than just photos. What are some suggestions for adding other pieces to the display?”
 
 
Great question! Creating a gallery wall is a fabulous way to personalize your space to exactly what you want. Since when you are decorating a wall, pretty well anything goes, there are really no rules!
There are lots of great options for adding unique pieces!

1. Taxidermy Heads

Such a fun addition to any space! There are so many different materials, shapes, sizes, textures and colours available for you to personalize your home with.

2. Mirrors

All shapes and sizes! Do you want an antique mirror? Do you love colored framed mirrors?  Whatever you like! Adding a mirror will give a different texture and will add a new dimension to the arrangement!

 

3. Letters

 
I don’t mean penned letters, although, an interesting thought.  Adding letters from the alphabet in various finishes and sizes – not sure which letter to add? Try the first letter of your family name.

4. Plates

Many people have beautiful collectables and are unsure how to display them, Instead of having them hidden in grandma’s old cabinet, display them as art! There are super easy ways to mount plates, and what a great way to showcase a sentimental family collection

 

5. Decorative Frames

You didn’t even have to fill them! Choosing interesting shaped or colored frames and leaving them open to show the wall is a great way to show off a paint colour, without adding too much clutter either!

 

6. Wreath

Adding some greenery is an interesting option as well! This is a great option for a more country/rustic style space. Its unique and the variety of texture will certainly make a statement!

 

7. Clocks

Adding in an assortment of clocks is a super cool way to do something different in your space! As with many decor items – the options are endless!

 

 

8. Art

Incorporating an art piece in the midst of your family photos and arrangement is another beautiful addition. For many families, this is a way to add in children’s artwork and help their little ones showcase their special pictures!

 

9. Wall Decals

This is a cost effective option for a few reasons: stickers are not overly expensive, and they don’t leave nail holes or ruin the paint when they come down! Adding quotes or phrases that have a beautiful meaning to you are a lovely touch to include in your decorative arrangement.

 

Another great way to do a gallery wall is on floating shelves. All of these suggestions could be done on floating shelves, whether it is leaning against them, or hung over top. Be creative! This is your home – let your personality shine through!

 

 

A gallery wall is a great way to show off your personality and style – we both have one in our home and it just adds a warmth to our spaces…

 

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HOME STYLING

How To Create A Welcoming Entry

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We all know that the exterior of your home when maintained really creates a welcoming atmosphere but as your friends, family and guests enter your home that inviting feeling should also transfer into the entry. Also if you are staging your home for the real estate market, you will want that inviting feeling as soon as buyers walk in!  Make that first impression from the curb last and carry through to the inside of the home.

The entry is a key space in any home – you walk through it everyday!  It isn’t a complete room like a living room or bedroom but it does play an important role.  It is often where we keep things like keys and mail or important pieces like school bags or brief cases.  We often do a final ‘check’ so see that our ties are straight or that we don’t have anything on our teeth or a hair out of place.  The entry is well used and for multiple purposes.  It’s important to have a well planned and organized entry for practical sake but also that is looks good.  When you look good you feel good – same goes for your living space.  If your entry is just a catch-all space, it will feel stressful space and set the tone for your day.

Here are some great pieces to spruce up that entry and create a warm and welcoming space.

1.  A Runner or area rug. 

Update your entry with a bright runner which leads your guests into your home. Colour can really brighten up the space but pattern can also add some create visual interest.  Or try both! worried about mud and wet shoes, look for a rug in indoor/outdoor material – it’s easy to clean so perfect for a family space.

2.  A Console Table 

A pretty console table with shelves is pretty and practical. There is a space to hold mail, keys and other home decor favorites. Wow your entryway with a pop of bright color or high gloss! There are many style options – glass, wood, colour, drawers, bottom shelf and different lengths too! For a small space like a condo – glass is a great option you have the surface area without the bulk.  We also love the idea of sliding a small cube or stool under and open console table, pull it out for some entry seating to put on boots and shoes.

3.  A Shiny Dish 

Everyone loves a shiny dish for your trinkets. Make it a habit to throw your keys and spare change in the dish – and never lose your keys again.The shine adds a reflect surface in the space.  Every room should have an element of shine for visual interest.  Small storage can also be pretty.

4.  A Mirror. 

Add a decorative mirror to your entryway to lighten and brighten. Mirrors reflect light and make rooms appear larger.Plus it is so handy to have a mirror right there for a quick hair, teeth and make up check.  Try something decorative like a Starburst mirror – it’s practical and pretty!  But choose one that flows with the rest of the decor in your home.  So a more rustic space would look better with a hammered tin or wood frame mirror.

5.  Baskets for Storage. 

This is another great piece for a busy family home.  Slide these in a corner or slide them under the console table.  Have a console table with a lower shelf? Baskets are perfect for that.  What to do with those basketballs, tennis rackets and other “stuff” that comes in the door daily. Keep everything in plain sight, but organized in a basket by the door.

6.  Entry Bench 

In a larger entry perhaps opt for a bench instead or a console.  And one with storage is a bonus!  You have a place to sit while you pull your shoes on and off. And you get to hide those things you don’t want in sight.This is ideal for a family home as long as you have the space.
 

7. Coat rack. 

Small entry or limited closet space? Try a Coat rack – very accessible and easy storage.  Coat racks hold more than coats! Backpacks, beach totes and gym bags need a place to hang as well.
 

8. Chic Chandelier. 

Entry lighting doesn’t seem important but it is.  Your guests will need to be able to see when they are putting shoes on to get ready to go.  A chic chandelier can light up a dark entryway – plus add glam to your space.  Whether you prefer brass, brushed gold, black wrought iron or painted metal, there are so many choices to suit your style. If you have a really dark entry – consider a table lamp on your console for additional light in the space.

9.  Art. 

A mirror is great  but if you already have mirrored bi-fold doors right at your entry another mirror is just overkill.  Try adding some art or photography at the front again creating a welcoming space.
With these easy 9 pieces you can create a  welcoming and useful entry space.
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HOME STAGING, HOME STYLING

The 6 Best Props To Stage Your Home

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When it comes to home staging – yes, there are a number of items that must be removed from the home such as personal photos, collectibles and of course, excess or bulky furniture.  But there are certain props that really enhance the look of the home regardless of the age or decor style.

These 6 DIY props can add memorable details and welcoming feelings to buyers and just help to set the scene and really make your photos stand out from the other houses for sale.

Books –

Too many books in a book case (or piles of them in office spaces and bedroom) can look junky and sloppy BUT sets of hardcover books can really complete the look of shelves or stacked on a coffee table. Check out garage sales or used book stores for affordable options be sure to check the condition of the spine (and check to make sure they don’t have a musty smell).  Stay away from controversial topics and titles.  We always look of books that are medium to large in scale, hard cover and in good shape.  Colourful spines can add a splash a colour to a bookcase or coffee table.

Bookcases are great for book storage but when it comes to staging you want every space to feel light and airy.  Full bookcases add a lot of bulk and heaviness to a room, so do a pre-pack of you books and leave your nicest ones on display.  Stack them creatively, play with colour and add some simple accessories.

Bowls of Lemons –

A big bowl of bright fresh lemons is a simple way to add some colour and a feeling freshness to a space like the kitchen or as a dining centerpiece.  Use decorative lemons – they last longer plus you get that brilliant yellow colour.  Why lemons? Well, no one is ever tempted to bite into a lemon.  And yes, I have found bite marks on several occasions in our decorative fruit especially apples but some pears too.  Use a bowl that works with your decor style – long, lean glass works well for contemporary spaces, wood or pottery looks great in a rustic or country home.

A low profile bowl with lemons really allows one to see that bright splash of colour.  This looks great in a kitchen, on a kitchen island, a dining table or even a coffee table like the image below

Plush towels –

New towels always look amazing in a bathroom.  Towels like everything else age, they are fine for every day use but when it comes to show casing your home old towels will just make the bathroom look tired and stale.  Aim for that ’boutique’ hotel look with clean, plush, white towels.  If your bathroom is already entirely white choose a grey or brown tone something that will give some contrast to the space but keep it neutral.

These white plush towels add a softness to this bathroom.  Bathrooms are full of hard surfaces like tile, cabinetry, porcelain and more…so adding some softness gives the room some balance.  The white towels in this bathroom also give a spa like feel

Large Painting –

This is probably a bit tougher to locate but try home decor stores or even online – the results are incredible!  Choose a large painting with soft tones (colour is fine but aim for softer hues).  We recommend a simple landscape (they are soothing) or just abstract with soft and blended brush strokes.  This will certainly make an impact but it won’t be alarming.

This living room with the large landscape art piece makes an impact but is still soothing and peaceful which is a great quality in a home.  The colours are soft and the blue tones are also used in the decor.  Large art pieces look great on big walls like the one here but they also look great above a fireplace or in a dining room above a sideboard

A Pair of Matching Table Lamps –

Take a look in any home design and decor magazine, you will always see matching pairs of lamps in a room.  You might be staging your home on a tight budget but you can’t have it looking that way!  A pair of matching table lamps will give you a designer look without spending a bundle.  Place them in a room where they can both be scene – flanking the sofa in the living room or flanking the bed are easy  ways to do just that and it makes a big impact!

This image shows the impact of what some beautiful matching table lamps can do in a room.  The reflective surface of these lamps adds some great light in the room too.

Plump Pillows –

Pillows really add extra dimension to decor and home staging.  Look for pillows with some colour, texture and even print.  But stay away from stiff or flat pillows and of course, going over board with too many pillows.  Pillows should enhance the look of the space!  Decor pillows look great on sofas, accent chairs and also beds and benches.  Be sure to ‘pump up’ those bed pillows too – volume from pillows adds a sense of luxury and comfort.

Seen here: there’s a mix of colour and pattern.  The turquoise makes a statement in this neutral tone room.  some home stagers may disagree but this colour choice brings life and a brightness to the room but be sure to carry this colour into other rooms as well to keep a fluid feel

In summary…putting it all together…

This neutral bedroom has a great mix of neutral tones – white, black and shades of beige.  The bed looks fantastic with the layering of pillows that are plump – bed and decor pillows.  The lean bedside tables and lamps match and fit in the space beautifully.  This is a  great example how to stage a bedroom in neutral tones, some texture, matching pieces, art and even flowers.

Even just a few new pieces can make a big difference in the overall presentation of your home – best wishes!


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HOME STYLING, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How do I style my coffee table?

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“I am an avid design magazine reader. I always try to mimic what I see in photos, but something I always struggle to get right is my coffee table. I love the look in magazines but I can’t seem to get it right at home. What’s the trick to styling a coffee table?”
 
 
Great Question!
This is always a tricky one because while we of course want to have a beautiful table, we also use coffee tables in a functional way. So where is the balance? Depending on what kind of coffee table you have, the options truly are endless….
 
 Photo from Domaine

Using trays is a great option! Especially for ottomans.

Since an ottoman is a fabric or leather surface, having a tray on top is a great functional additional, but also a great décor piece! Depending on the size of the tray, using beautiful hardcover books is a great décor item. Adding some greenery also adds a bit of colour to the display. If you have the space and it doesn’t look cluttered, add a beautiful candle or a bunch of candles.
 
 
Trays don’t necessarily have to only be used on an ottoman either. Using one on a solid surface is a great place to neatly have your decorative pieces together, while still leaving space for drinks etc. for your guests and family.

If your coffee table has a bottom shelf…

Don’t forget to add some decorative pieces down there. Hardcover books, magazines, and decorative accessories are great on the bottom shelf.
 
Adding vases with flowers is a classic option for a coffee table. Having beautiful fresh flowers not only look good – but smell nice too! Using a colourful vase is a great addition to the space.
 
 
 
Depending on the size of your coffee table, try adding a few lanterns. They give the table some height while also having an interesting piece as an accessory. Incorporating interesting objects are a great way to add visual interest to the space, as well as giving you and your guests a conversation starter! Bowls, vases, candles, abstract objects and even picture frames are welcome additions to a coffee table.
 

Now, the trick is to have items that are to scale with your furniture. If you are going to incorporate oversize pieces, make sure you don’t have too much stuff in addition to them.

Having a cluttered tabletop isn’t going to achieve the ‘designer look’ you’re aiming for. It’s all about the right balance.

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HOME STYLING

Home Styling Tips and Tricks

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Have you ever visited a furniture store show room or model home and thought – wow, why doesn’t my home look like this?

Well it can!  Follow these home styling tips and tricks and your home will instantly look chic and polished.  The details really do matter….

1 –  Always use odd numbers in your displays –

They are more visually appealing.  The photos just below and to the right illustrate 3 items used in the display. The books (one item) all count as one object visually as that is how your eye will read the grouping. Also note coordinating colours, different textures and height – not necessary as it really depends on the style but for this shabby country chic space the texture and tones work.

2 – Items do not have to be centered on the coffee table –

If you are planning on using it, put your feet up or set down a glass, move your display off center to a corner.  It will still look great. Style and function can work hand in hand

3- Do not place anything too high on the coffee table –

People should be able to see each other across the space. A little height is nice like a beautiful orchid for instance, just don’t have anything bulky and tall

4- The edge of the rug in your living room –

Should start just under the front legs of your couch and chairs. A 5 x 8 rug works perfectly in most spaces but you can go larger depending on the size of your room.

5 –  A console table in the back of the couch  –

Should never be higher than the back of the couch (otherwise you will most likely bang your head on it when you flop down on the couch at the end of a long day).

6-  End tables should be the same height as the arms of the couch or chair –

Too low and a guest will be likely to drop their drink and too high they will bump the side of the table with the glass.


7-  Use pillow inserts and covers –

So you can change the decor out seasonally. It will save you money and allow you to constantly refresh your space.

8 –  Mix and match textures and shapes for interest –

Notice the different textures in the photo above and the throw – that also counts as a layer. Plus they add great visual interest to a room and are any easy fix when you want something new and fresh

9- When layering your pillows, start with the 20 x 20 in the back then go progressively smaller –

Use more pillows in the corner of a sectional to provide more back support.

We’d love to know how these home styling tips and tricks transform the look of your home…

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Home Decor: What to do when something’s off….

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If you’ve ever had a room hovering at “almost there,” you know how frustrating of a situation it can be. The room doesn’t look bad, it just doesn’t quite sing. It’s missing something, and you can’t put your finger on it. You might find these six things to try helpful when a room just isn’t coming together like you thought it would!

 

1. Compare it to your inspiration

Whether you tried to copy a room you saw on Pinterest piece by piece, have always just wanted a room that feels like Nate Berkus designed it or looked to a piece of art for color palette inspiration, go back to that inspiration and compare. What do you have in your room that’s not in the inspiration? What don’t you have? It might be a case of you trying an extra element that’s fighting the harmony of the original inspiration, or you may have forgotten to include a vital element that makes your inspiration work.

We are all naturally drawn to symmetry and balance, so see if that is the issue. We recommend an element of pattern, colour, texture and shine in every space.

 

2. Try taking things out

Take out a big element. Yes, even something big like curtains or art. Now step back and look at the room again. Even if the room feels a little emptier, you might be able to see the potential of where the design needs to go . You might not be able to see what your room is missing because there’s something that doesn’t belong in there already, blocking your ability to see the room’s potential. 

A lot of interior decor is trial and error so it’s normal to not get it perfect the first time.  Often you need to play around to see what you are ‘feeling’ for the space.

 

3. Focus in on a spot, corner or wall that you do love


Why do you feel like that spot is working? What is it that you love? Take what’s working and spread it out around the room a little more. Maybe it’s a color you only used a touch of that could be maximized more in the space. Maybe it’s a style of furniture you played around with on a small scale that the room could use more of.

See what adding more of what you love in the room does to the feel of it. Take inspiration from what you love even if it is right in front of your nose!

 

4. Shake up your style

Grab something from another part of the home, from a friend’s home or find a free thing — just make it something that seems surprising to add to the space. As we’ve mentioned before, sometimes bringing something that you think obviously doesn’t go can produce one of two equally favorable outcomes: either it surprises the heck out of you by working in the space, or it points you in the right direction to go in by being so mismatched!

Can’t find an item that catches your eye? Grab a scarf in an unexpected colour (or grab a few) maybe the room needs a real pop.  Do something interesting – display your most prized and beautiful pieces (even shoes or jewelry)

 

 

5. Take a picture (or two or three)

And then leave the room you’re trying to figure out. Like, go to a coffee shop or somewhere else. Look at the photos you took on your phone and scroll through them. Look at the photos on a small scale; small thumbnails that let you see the whole space.

Put some mental distance between the fact that this is a room you live in and see every day and instead view it like a room you’d be spotting on a blog somewhere. And then immediately listen to your gut on what you think the room might need (or need taken out).

 

6. Doodle

Those pictures you took earlier? Print them out if you can (or turn to a digital photo manipulating tool) and start doodling. Drawing patterns. Drawing furniture pieces. Squares where you think more art could go.

Doodle stuff you wouldn’t do in your right mind with actual items. That you can’t do financially. Play. And when you hit on something that feels like it clicks, figure out how to make it work on your budget and in your space!

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HOME STYLING, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

How to style my fireplace mantel

how-to-style-my-fireplace-mantelhow-to-style-my-fireplace-mantel

“This winter, my fireplace has been working over time!  I love snuggling up to my fireplace on cold winter days but my mantel is a mess. I want it to look good, can you send me some easy ideas to make my fireplace mantel pretty?”

Great question!  I think a lot of people have this problem.  The mantel should really highlight and bring focus to the fireplace not be an eye sore in the room.  We see this all the time when people use the mantel as a bit of a random collect-all area or a high ‘hiding’ space that the little ones can’t reach!

A mantel isn’t the place to pile up mismatched knick knacks or to leave bare, to gather dust…

It’s an eye-level stage of sorts, and a prime spot for showing off artful accents and collected treasures. Use the fireplace’s facade as a cue to your color palette.

Then select one large item to feature–a light or open sculptural piece is best because it won’t block the other objects. Pair it with a themed collection, like a few framed family photos or a grouping of different-sized glass vases. An oversized mirror or piece of art makes an ideal backdrop.

To keep it super simple but make an impact: follow this image –  even if this more traditional style isn’t to your taste, take the principles of layering and add a modern or country twist…..

Create 3 layers of décor …

Always includes layers 1 and 2.

Layer 3 is optional depending on your decorating style.

1. Start with an anchor piece

– An oversized mirror is an easy option.  It let’s light bounce around the room and it works with any decor style.  We like a piece with an interesting frame.  This image shows a dark frame which give some contrast in this very light tone-on-tone room but you could add a bold art piece that would give you the same impact

2.  The weight and height. 

This image is demonstrating formal balance, that means you have two pieces (floral arrangements) that are the same colours, size, height, scale – identical and they are on each end of the mantel.  Creating a ‘frame’ for other, smaller display items.  These pieces could be vases, tall candles or candle sticks, sculptural items…it doesn’t matter just be sure to keep the height to the sides and make sure the items fit on the mantel (you don’t want anything to hang over)

3. (Optional) Filler.

Now this can get a bit tricky…you want to fill that open space under the mirror and between the flanking vases with decor pieces.  Notice here everything is shorter, so not to block the mirror but the pieces have an airy quality – the glass candle sticks, the white planters and the silver circle pieces aren’t heavy or bulky.  We see 3 main style of items and a few votive candles that are carefully displayed

Here’s an example of a mantel with layers 1 and 2 but not 3.  Again these principles of layering can be used in all decor styles, just replace the pieces with items in your taste and style.

This country style mantel uses all 3 layers. The pops of black help anchor the space and the textural elements with the mantels itself, the greenery and the woven chargers add some warmth and the display items compliment the decor style and they relate to one another.

It important to keep scale in mind not only as the objects relate to the fireplace, but also as they relate to one another.  All of the items should overlap each other so that they feel connected to each other and act as a cohesive unit.  Think of it as a step-down effect from the tallest point in the center of the mantel to the shortest point on the outside edges.  You want to take small, gradual steps without any jarring height decreases.

Do you have a TV on your mantel but you still want to create a beautiful styled mantel?  Yes, you can!

See this image, that’s a TV anchored by 2 beautiful vases with height, texture and a pop of bright yellow.  Yellow is an excellent choice here because it is the most intense colour on the colour wheel and that means your eyes can’t help but be drawn to it.  So when the TV isn’t on, these vases stand out and look beautiful

Once you’re comfortable with the process, think about what you might want to showcase on your mantel and where these items might fit within the layers mentioned above.  Consider using a mantel to showcase art,
collectibles, seasonal decor, fresh flowers or even family heirlooms.  Then sit back and admire your work!

SHOP DECOR FOR THE FIREPLACE…

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