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the-best-gadgets-for-around-the-home

There are lots of different gadgets out there to make your home life easier. Many people have a smart doorbell or an AI for the home like Alexa, or Google. However, there are lots more out there and you can get more than you might think. If you are a tech enthusiast, then you may find that you spend more time with useless gadgets than with ones that are going to benefit you. If you are struggling with where to begin there here is a little advice for some gadgets that can help you around the home. 

Vacuums 

There are plenty of smart vacuums out there that can help you stay on top of your housework. From a cordless vacuum to a flood water extraction machine. There is also the option of getting a robot vacuum cleaner. These machines will continuously hoover the floor on a schedule. This removes the hassle of you having to pick up a machine and do it for yourself. The only issue you may find with these machines is that they cannot reach areas such as curtains or upholstery and so you will still need to have a regular vacuum on hand for the harder-to-reach parts. 

The smart faucet

This smart faucet works with motion control that can make your hygiene routine easier. It has touchless technology and can control the water floor and temperature. You can connect it to your smartphone and utilize voice control. This will allow you to pre-set temperatures and the amount of water used. It can be a useful piece of technology to have. You will be surprised how much money you save by controlling your temperature and the amount of water used. 

A smart projector

This can make your living room into the best movie theatre without having to leave your home. Smart projectors can rotate around 180 degrees and are usually portable. This will allow you to show your movie on the ceiling or a wall without having too much hassle. It means that you will no longer have to deal with poor lighting in your home. They often are compact so are easy to take to your friend’s home making them a worthwhile addition to your home. 

Home air care

There has been a recent upsurge in sales of home air care solutions. They diffuse purified air into your home and can be an efficient fan and heater. Not only are they trendy looking but provide 360 degrees of fresh clean air and can heat up your room. Depending on the setting, they can cool it down as well. Due to its versatility, it has become a staple in many modern homes. 

Gadgets for the home

There are lots of different gadgets out there and so you need to pick the ones that will be beneficial to you. If you struggle to keep on top of housework, then you should look for gadgets to help you with this. Take time to see where your needs are then tackle them one at a time. 

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my-top-9-favorite-table-lamps

Let’s talk table lamps…I have been working with a client (updating her family room) and one of the key pieces in her space is lighting. I have been sourcing out (and am currently obsessed with voluminous table lamps)…I have found so many incredible options – I just had to share…

Table lamp inspo

What I am loving about these lamps is the amazing texture! I know I’m always presenting neutral options but what I love about neutral pieces is that the shape and texture can really add interesting visual elements to any room. These styles are perfect for a bedroom, entryway or living room – I love the voluminous shape and size of these options. Lighting can make a statement in your space and also be functional.

This entryway is a great example of an entryway with this style of lamp. It adds a great design element to this space — this space is neutral (black + white) with pops of gold really set a welcoming scene to this home.

Photo credit: Studio McGee

When it comes to shopping for a lamp I highly recommend sticking with a neutral tone – it’s versatile and classic. Lamps are definitely an item worth investing in, since they are used season to season – so be sure to think long term when it comes to buying lighting.

A few tips when it comes to purchasing a table lamp…

  1. When it comes to the correct height, think about the location of the lamp – is it beside the sofa? Be sure to base it on your eye level when sitting, you will want to make sure that when you sit down you are eye level with the bottom of the shade. This will make sure that the light is not shining directly into your eye.
  2. Your lampshade should never overlap the surface it is on. So for example if you are selecting a lamp for an entry console table make sure the lamp shade isn’t wider than the table it sits on.
  3. Be aware of the size of your room. A small and skinny lamp in a large room will look even smaller. Proportions are important.

Shop table lamps

  1. Fairfax table lamp
  2. Barstow ceramic table lamp
  3. LaBrea table lamp
  4. Miller ceramic table lamp
  5. Faris ceramic table lamp
  6. Maddox Terra cotta table lamp
  7. Tinney table lamp
  8. Tinney 1 light table lamp
  9. Latrobe taupe table lamp

I hope you love this round up of table lamps. Let me know which one is your favorite!

SHOP LIGHTING….

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neutral-fall-decor-favorites-from-amazon

Neutral fall decor is my favorite look for the season. I know that we are very used to seeing those vibrant orange, red and yellow tones or even rich eggplant and burgundy for the fall season – but if you know anything about my personal taste, neutrals are my style!

What I love about neutral fall decor – is it is so simple to add to your existing palette because very simply – it’s neutral! The fall season is so full of amazing natural textures so by decorating with neutral tones you can really celebrate and embrace gorgeous textures straight from nature (like wood, botanicals and stone).

Neutral Fall Decor Inspo…

Let me share with you some inspiring neutral fall decor home decor images. I always like to seek out new ways to add touches of the season to my own space.

Adding just a touch of a fall hue is a nod to the season but isn’t overwhelming with rich colours. I like to add pumpkins in my kitchen, entry, family room and if I’m entertaining the dining room. I love heirloom pumpkins because their tones are muted and balance well with other soft neutral tones.

I love to play with texture in general but there is something about mixing texture when it comes to decorating for the fall season. Mixing wool with leather (or faux leather), linen and adding those natural elements like (faux) pampas grass or (faux) cotton stems. It adds an immediate feeling of comfort and makes the space feel cozy and welcoming. Again not everything needs to be orange and rusty red just a few pops of those tones will do – or opt for a completely neutral theme.

My top 13 Neutral Fall home decor favorites…

So now that you see why I love neutral fall decor – I have done some of the legwork for you by sourcing out some great pieces available on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases which go towards supporting content on this blog.

Shop…

  1. Warm Cozy candle
  2. Wood dough bowl
  3. Rustic farmhouse 3 tier tray
  4. Ivory cable knit pillow
  5. Farmhouse wood bead garland
  6. Grey-white check blanket
  7. Glass jug
  8. Fall wreath
  9. 3 small faux plants
  10. White faux pumpkin
  11. Rustic lantern
  12. Whitewash seagrass tray
  13. Hello Fall candle

What is your fall decor style? Neutrals? Classics like red and orange tones? Or, rich wine tones?

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nordstrom-anniversary-sale-home-decor-finds

Nordstrom has a big anniversary sale every August and I love a sale, don’t you?

But sometimes it can be really overwhelming when it comes to sale shopping. This year is a bit different with the events happening globally – it might feel a bit limiting or strange. But for this year’s sale I have done some “window shopping” for you and found some great home decor pieces!

As you may know – if you have been following me on Instagram – I have been making some changes in my own home (mainly my family room – new sectional sofa and pillows ) so I have definitely been in overdrive when it comes to finding decor pieces!

My Nordstrom Home Decor Picks…

This curated list consists of pieces that are really versatile. They are neutrals and really transitional (meaning that they can work with many styles). I have found pieces that add texture to a space and visual interest. These all work beautifully together but also can easily be added to your current decor.

  1. Sago small cement planter
  2. Atlas Marble chain
  3. Turned Spindle Table Lamp
  4. Hawkins New York Shaker set of 4 mugs
  5. Natural Sleep Candle
  6. Iron Accent Table
  7. Abstract sculpture
  8. Bloomr Eucalyptus Planter
  9. Textured Yarn Blanket
  10. Sahara Throw Pillow
  11. Bromley Jakarta Area Rug
  12. Iman Accent Pillow
  13. Kinney Accent Pillow

New home decor accessories can really give your home a refresh – and we all could use a bit of an update now and then,

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Neutral rugs – let’s talk about one of my favorite decor items. I am a big fan of neutral decor – I know it sounds a bit boring but I love mixing textures and playing with pattern and all within a neutral palette. A rug with pattern or texture (or both) is a perfect addition for any room in your home. My own home has neutral rugs throughout and I have found some great options – and I’m sharing my favorites with you…

Neutral Rugs Inspiration…

Let’s get inspired ! – Here are some of my favorite rooms with neutral floor coverings…

Photo credit: Amazon

This room is a combination of so many neutrals! I love the pillow combination – that green colour is so rich and dramatic. The texture element with tassels and pompoms – add some whimsy to the room. And the brass metallic accent is subtle but adds another textural element. And this rug…love it! I love the versatility of it – plus a mix of neutral tones with pattern and texture, it adds a subtle statement to the room.

Photo credit: HomeBunch

I love the distressed look of this rug – it adds so much character to this bedroom. This dreamy bedroom is layered with neutrals – I love the black night stands and the small black accents in the bench and ceiling fan. I love the linen texture on the bed – it is so soothing, fresh and relaxing. This rug is a big statement piece – it’s like having a big art piece that pulls it all together!

So why decorate with neutrals?

  • Neutrals are easy to decorate with – you can mix them with bold colours or with other neutrals – they are so versatile!
  • Neutrals are timeless – sure trends come and go but neutrals are never out!
  • Neutrals can be in a cool palette or warm palette – so you do have options…
  • Neutrals work with different styles – modern, farmhouse, boho, traditional etc…
  • Decorating with neutrals allows for you to play with and feature other design elements such as texture and pattern

Shop…

  1. Southwest flatweave rug
  2. Flat weave natural rug
  3. Casablanca southwest shag rug
  4. Artistic Weavers Amalia rug
  5. Woodrum southwest rug
  6. Tashi Hand Knotted rug
  7. Diamond Texture Trellis rug
  8. Modern abstract rug
  9. Safavieh multi/cream rug
  10. Keagan Grey area rug
  11. Tribal diamond rug with tassels (no longer available but here’s a similar option)
  12. Safavieh Cosmopolitan Zenovia Vintage Rug

All of these rugs are so versatile and they very in terms of pattern, texture and detail. But these could work in many rooms and many decor styles. I love what a rug can do for a room, too!

Do you have a favorite neutral rug?

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I just love a black and white pillow! Black and white is a colour scheme that is a classic. If you have been following me on any on my socials you will have noticed that it’s my latest obsession. I have been making updates in my own home – especially the family room and I have added some great neutral pieces with contrast (tiles and pillows) to my room design. I’m waiting on orders to arrive but I wanted to share with you some of my inspiration and some great finds.

Black and White Pillow Inspo

Photo credit: Lulu and Georgia

This living room loom really inspired my plan for my family room – which I’m so excited about. What I love about this look is the neutral scheme (of course) but the mix of the textures and the prints. I love the boho elements of texture and tassels, too! The look and feel of mudcloth has always been a favourite of mine. The pattern rug with the neutral sofa and walls with the mix of pattern pillows is the look I am going for in my space!

Shop pillows

I have found some amazing deals on pillows and pillow covers that can be used in a living room, entry, or bedroom. What I love with these neutrals is that you can mix them with any colour or other neutrals. I am also really into the texture and tassels – can you tell?

  1. Stripe Tassel Square Throw Pillow
  2. Embroidered Black and White Mudcloth Square Pillow
  3. Cottle Cotton Pillow Cover
  4. Hadleigh Black Pillow
  5. Tasseled Geometric Square Throw Pillow
  6. Rivet Modern Throw Pillow with Tassels
  7. Hadrea Handwoven Black and White Lumbar Pillow Cover
  8. Abner Cotton Throw Pillow
  9. Coen Cotton Geometric Throw Pillow
  10. African Mudcloth Lumbar
  11. Square Cotton Mudcloth with Fringed “X”
  12. Spraggins Ikat Cotton Lumbar

As you can see this is an extensive list with variety of styles and price points. When it comes to decorating I love to play with my budget and have a blend of splurge and save items. I really believe that’s how you can add your own twist on a design. Right now, I really love the boho elements like tassels and fringe. I have always been drawn to the organic texture of mud cloth and I love the visual interest that a pattern brings to a space. Add these in any combination of size to a neutral sofa or sectional or on a wood bench or paired with simple and neutral bedding.

Are you liking the boho trend? What about the black and white pillow – do you have any in your home? I can’t wait to share my family room updates with my new black and white pillows!

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gifts-that-sparkle

Gifts under $50 – Gifts that sparkle for under $50….

The Holidays are for sparkle! I personally love to wear a bit of bling everyday – sometimes it’s subtle and sometimes it’s a bit bolder. I love to receive a great jewelry piece but I love to give a great accessory, too!

What I love so much about jewelry is that it can really transform an outfit from day to night or it can just spruce up a very basic outfit. A touch of bling can also really show off your personality.

I have rounded up my favourite gifts that sparkle and they are all under $50 …..

Sparkle Gift Guide

  1. Dorado wrap bracelet
  2. Essential sculptural bangle
  3. Attica multi-wrap bracelet
  4. Delicate Horn necklace
  5. Love necklace
  6. Ulani ring
  7. Pave Orbital Ring
  8. Essential Hoops (gold or silver)
  9. Star Climber Earring
  10. XOXO studs

Why I love these gifts….

These are some of my personal favorite pieces. I wear these regularly – to work or on a date night. I love for different reasons – the horn necklace is perfect for someone who loves to layer. The hoops are a classic (I have them in silver and gold) – they are a great day to night transition piece. The sculptural bangle is another classic that I often wear with my hoops – it’s very simple but so chic (I also love the gold version). The Ulani ring (which is on a HUGE sale right now) is very minimalist but so unique – it’s perfect for someone who likes to be different but still simple. The pave orbital ring – I wear almost everyday! It is very flattering on – it can be worn everyday or for special occasions.

The Star Climber earrings are subtle but a bit edgy with a touch of bling! When I don’t want a simple diamond stud – I reach for these….The XOXO studs are a great gift for a teen or pre-teen girl – so cute! For someone who loves an arm party (ie stacking bracelets) both the Attica and the Dorado are great options – as they are one piece but they look like you have multiple bracelets on – so chic and I get a tone of compliments on my Attica (also the clasp is magnetic – so it’s really easy to put on and take off)…The Love necklace is also a great layering necklace (the cursive script is really cute) and a great gift for a teen or pre-teen (they also have matching hoops and it comes in silver or gold) – who doesn’t love love?

To give the gift of sparkle you really don’t have to drop a small fortune – you can add some bling on any budget ….

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christmas-tree-collars-inspiration-shop

You are probably wondering – what is a Christmas tree collar? You likely have a tree skirt – or some fabric that wraps around the base of your tree and it covers the stand.  Well a collar is the same idea but what I like about the collar is that it is more substantial and it has some height so it really disguises that  stand and open area between the floor and the tree branches.

Photo credit: Johnlewis.com

I personally love the volume of the Christmas tree collar and like a tree skirt they come in so many different styles.  The wicker collar adds some great texture and a natural element to this tree. There are colourful options, farmhouse options and some great metal options too!

Photo credit: Target

I love the galvanized metal collar in this image – it has a farmhouse feel and metallics work so well at Christmas. It is a great neutral tone and it really works with a modern farmhouse Christmas style.

Shop Christmas Tree Collars

 

  1. Farmhouse Galvanized Metal Tree Collar
  2. Willow ring tree collar
  3. Fabric Christmas Tree Collar
  4. The Original Christmas Tree Box (gold)
  5. Rattan Christmas Tree Collar
  6. Christmas Tree Box
  7. Metal Christmas Tree Collar (gold)
  8. Decorative Metal  Tree Ring

 

Which tree collar is your favourite?

 

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farmhouse-christmas-decor

The Christmas season is here! Are you ready? For those of you that have embraced Farmhouse decor in your home – you are in luck! There are so many amazing Farmhouse Christmas decorations that you can add to your home this season without changing up your decor style.

Photo credit: Kirklands

Farmhouse Christmas Decor…

What I personally love about Farmhouse Christmas decor is that is has such a cozy and inviting feel.  It has a natural and rustic element that embraces the outdoors – incredible textures and the smell of real greenery is Christmas perfection! I have started to add more Christmas decor to my scheme as it suits our existing decor and I love the relaxed and family friendly feel it has.

For me farmhouse style is all about simplicity.  Try adding texture elements to your decor – logs of birch wood in a bucket, basket or even just wrapped in a red bow – so festive and so simple! Try adding bowls with pine cones or nuts. Add some cozy textures like knitted blankets or stockings. Plaid (and buffalo check) is a great winter pattern and perfect for Christmas – add plaid in blankets or pillows. Add mood lighting with twinkle lights, roaring fire in the fireplace, tea candles and even flameless candles…Get crafty and make a popcorn or cranberry garland

Too busy to look for Christmas decor? I have done the sourcing for you and it’s all available on Amazon! As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission for qualifying purchases which support the content on this blog. 

  1. Christmas pillow covers (set of 2)
  2. Christmas shiplap sign
  3. Farmhouse placemats (set of 6)
  4. Galvanized metal buckets (set of 3 – small, medium and large)
  5. Faux Boxwood wreath (17″)
  6. Christmas ornaments (set of 4)
  7. Galvanized metal round serving tray
  8. Christmas throw pillow covers (set of 2)

It’s not too late to start your decorating…or shopping for Christmas decor!

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modern-farmhouse-stools

Stools are a kitchen island (or breakfast bar) essential! Much like lighting a kitchen bar stool can set the tone and add that needed dose of style into your space.  Stools should be comfortable (of course) but they should compliment your style and add to the room. We all have different elements on our checklist when it comes to furniture but these farmhouse stools that I sourced (likely) meet all of those expectations.

MODERN FARMHOUSE STOOL INSPIRATION

Photo credit: BeckiOwens.com

I love this amazing modern farmhouse kitchen by Becki Owens. I love the blend of clean white cabinetry and the rustic barn beam. The clean flooring and those farmhouse pendants are the perfect balance of clean modern classic and rustic farmhouse.  These stools are the best of both worlds – the warm cognac leather adds that farmhouse cozy factor and the clean lines and black legs give this stool a modern edge.

Photo credit: I Spy DIY

I love a crisp and clean white kitchen and these wood and black stools just pop! The copper accents add a farmhouse element.  But the blend of clean lines, simple styling and lighting choices give this farmhouse inspired kitchen a modern edge.

Photo credit: McGee and Co

This kitchen has the clean and classic white shaker style cabinets with subway backsplash in a white marble. The gold tone hardware installed on the horizontal add some bling to this kitchen but also add a modern element. The oversized black pendants also add some personality to the space. These natural wood floors add that warm and natural element – these stools mimic that natural wood tone.  These stools also have great visual interest with their curves!

MODERN FARMHOUSE STOOLS

What I love about the modern farmhouse esthetic is that every modern farmhouse is completely different.  You can play with this 'hybrid' and find the balance between the two styles and make your space your own.  Elements that make a modern farmhouse a modern farmhouse - texture (adding natural textures like wood), Industrial lighting (this is a great way to add black or metal), white (walls and/or cabinets) and warmth (either through colour choices, styling...) The modern farmhouse should look chic and stylish but feel welcoming and cozy.

I've sourced out some farmhouse stools that add that are a perfect mix of style and comfort.

  1. Centiar Bar Stool 
  2.  Barraute Bar Stool
  3. Dovercliff Bar Stool
  4. Gracie Bar Stool
  5. Jasper Bar Stool (or similar stool Wishbone stool)
  6. Bastion Bar Stool

All of these stools embrace that modern farmhouse feel and yet they are all different.  I personally love the mix of materials instead of just one element.  When it comes to purchasing stools be sure to get the proper size.  Not sure what size you need - click here for how to pick the right size kitchen stool.   Stools are not just a practical or functional piece they really are a style element in a kitchen, so find a stool that is both comfortable and stylish.

Which modern farmhouse stool is your favourite?


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