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LIGHTING, TRENDS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – What is Sculptural Lighting?

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“I keep hearing the word “Sculptural Lighting” lately.What does that mean and how would I execute this trend in my own home?”
One of the things we love most about this job is the constant changing trends and the excitement of something new & beautiful. I love this question because when we were in Toronto this year at the Interior Design Show, sculptural lighting was a huge trend. So many people are seeing the value in having beautiful lighting in your space. It really is an art form.
 
Sculptural lighting has a wide range of defining characteristics. Lighting fixtures have a functionality aspect
but they can also double as being abstract works of art. Sculptural lighting fixtures are so unique and eye-catching that they naturally become conversation pieces in their settings. The variety of shapes, colours, textures, metals,
materials and sizes are so vast, the options for your home are endless! (and so are the price points!)
 
Of course, we understand that changing the lighting in every room in your home is a large undertaking. The idea of having beautiful light fixtures in every room is not a reality for all of us, as nice as it would be. Choose the rooms in your home that you spend the most time in. Perhaps the living room or bedroom is a great place to start. These are often some of the most used spaces in a home. As well as the kitchen and dining room.
 
When we say “sculptural” that doesn’t necessarily mean it has to be over the top. In a modern setting, a simple, pendant can be sculptural. Sculptural also means beautiful.
 
If you’re nervous about being too bold, try adding a chandelier in an open space. Having the crystal and metal mixture will look spectacular without being too much. If you are very adventurous, there are many shapes and styles that will suit your needs.
Here are some of our favourite photos from this year’s
Interior Design Show in Toronto (IDS 2016).

 

 

 

Choose something unique and tailored just to your personal taste!
I’m actually updating the lighting in my dining room – I haven’t chosen anything just yet but I will let you know when I do – it will be fabulous!
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HOME DECOR, TRENDS

What’s Hot in Textiles – 2016 Textile Trends

whats-hot-in-textiles-2016-textile

Textiles are a great way to switch up your look – this includes: drapery, pillows, bed linens, and even area rugs.  There are always certain prints that are in style.  Remember when we used to see chevron everywhere and on everything? Well, here’s what hot in textiles for 2016!

1- Fur has been ‘trending’ since about 2012.  It has been seen in living rooms, bedrooms and even dining rooms – pillows, throws and rugs. It is incredibly versatile – it works in a modern space, contemporary, rustic – any style!

2- Jungle prints  – big and bold jungle prints really add a splash of colour and fun to any space. We have also see a lot of tropical prints in wall paper, too. Not sure of this trend – try it in small doses, a pillow on your sofa in a bold jungle print can really make an impact.  We love this bold pillow available on Etsy.

3 – Stonewashed – the ultimate in relaxed.  Think soft texture, slightly crumpled and subtle tones – perfect for the bedroom.Check out Restoration Hardware‘s Belgian  linen collections. Layer it and add some other textures too like cable knit or fur to keep the room from looking flat

4 – Velvet is really making a comeback in women’s fashion too, it’s the whole nod to the 90’s! But we will be seeing this luxurious textile in the home too. Velvet looks great in any colour but we love it in rich jewel tones like this emerald green. The texture really adds a touch of luxury to any room.

5 – Botanical print – soft and subtle and a little whimsical.  This print still makes a statement, we love it layered with other prints or echoed in botanical print art (not matching prints). It works with all neutrals too

6 – Soft and low contrast Damask prints – we have seen the Damask print for a few years now in big and bold colours and black and white, so old Hollywood glam (very Kardashian – esque).  We will still see the print but in lower contrast and more subtle tones.

7- Colourful Geometric prints – if this looks like a bit of a retro throwback, it is! These colour combos and geometric prints have a bit of a mod vibe but refreshed and do you see the pops of rose quartz, too?

8 – Colour Blocking – similar to the geometric print but fewer colours but still that mod look.We love this bedding set in white and soft grey with a pop of coral – it’s a great balance of male and female elements too.

9 – Japanese tie-dye : Shibori.  Blue and white Japanese style tie-dye print is hot! We love this way this adds some organic looking print to this bedroom.This is fun and fresh plus we love the organic feel of this, it reminds us of your favourite jeans!

We love layering textiles of various textures and prints.  Which of these is your favourite?

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TRENDS

Hot Trend for 2016 – Florals

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We all know by now that the colour of the year for 2016 is Rose Quartz -” is a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure”. We love the softness and subtle elegance of this colour….but another trend for 2016 is florals! I know, I know, did florals ever really go out of style? The answer is no.  Florals are a classic print in fashion and home fashion but we will be seeing more florals this year.  Many think of florals as fussy and traditional but this year expect to see florals used in a different way.  A more current or modern twist!

Over sized –

When it comes to florals try and over sized print in textiles or over sized art. We love this floral art, it adds some bold colour and some softness against this white on white room decor.

Mix your prints.

To keep the look modern think about mixing in some florals with other prints. In this image, we love the floral pillow in bold colours next to the Dalmatian print drapes. It makes the space chic and sophisticated.

Mix styles.

We love the balance of taking an older or more traditional pieces and adding a modern or current textile.  We love this traditional chair paired with the bright and big floral print. It updates the whole piece and adds an interesting element to the room.

On the floor.

Add a statement area rug to any room for an instant update.  This area rug is fun, fresh and makes a big statement.  It’s like art on the floor.  Pair with a glass coffee table so the rug can be seen and add neutral furniture.  This rug speak for itself.

 

Play with texture.

Don’t get too soft and fussy when decorating with florals.  Try pairing them with hard textures like wood, metal and glass.  We love the over sized floral art pieces against this concrete wall.

 

Florals don’t have to be fussy – try it out for yourself!

 

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HOME DECOR, TRENDS

The Bar Cart Trend

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Bar carts having been trending for a while now and we love them too!  They are the perfect open and accessible liquor cabinet plus they look chic.  But we love how multi functional the bar cart is!  here are some of our favourite ideas and uses for the bar cart.

1. Bar cart end table. 

We love this gold bar cart, so 2016! it’s open and airy and just perfect for someone who loves to entertain but we also love how it is being used as an end table in this small space.  Take a closer look the top shelf is styled with flowers and some books – this could be great surface space for coasters too.  The lower portion is used as the bar.

 

2. Bar cart Coffee station.

Short on kitchen space? Love all things coffee? why not add a bar cart and create a coffee station? We love how useful this is plus it looks great.  It’s great for entertaining, too! Try wheeling it into the living space for after dinner coffee and desserts.  You can also use the lower shelves for open storage of mugs, dishes and more or try adding some baskets for tea towels or store your pretty cookbooks.

 

 

3. Bar cart bathroom storage.

OK a glass of wine in a hot bath is a lovely way to unwind but maybe you don’t need a bar cart serving wine and cocktails in your bathroom but here’s an idea…try using a bar cart in the bathroom for some extra storage.  This is a great idea if your bathroom is short on space.  Make it pretty and spa like by adding beautiful and plush towels, candles and maybe a plant or just keep it totally functional for everyday items like towels.

 

 

4. Bar cart guest bedroom needs. 

Have an out of town guest? Want them to feel at home? We heart this idea! Add a bar cart to the room and stock it with essentials and a few treats.  This adds a bit of a hotel feel but it makes your guests feel welcome and like this space is theirs (even if it is just for a short time)

 

 

5.  Bar cart decor.

We love the open and airy feel of a bar cart so why not use it as an end table? You don’t have to stock with beverages you can just style it as you would any other end table. At first glance, we didn’t even notice this was a bar cart – we just loved the look but this is a great idea, because it is so multi-purpose for when you are entertaining.

 

 

6. Bar cart Baby station.

OK not as pretty but very functional.  If you have just had a baby, moving around is a bit of a challenge at first, so create a baby and mommy friendly space that cuts down on moving around.  Keep everything accessible.  Using a bar cart to hold the baby essentials is so smart! And you could easily use this in the nursery as well.

 

7. Bar cart kids crafts. 

The bar cart is a great way to stay organized and because it is on wheels it can be moved around very easily.  We love the idea of a movable kids art cart!  Keep all of their supplies in the cart and you won’t have to take up other storage space in your home and this way it is easy for them to access.

 

 

8. Bar cart music station. 

If you love music, why not use your bar cart to store and display your love and passion for music? We love how this turntable is displayed on a bar cart, genius idea!

 

 

9. Bar cart office storage. 

Need a little extra storage space in your office? Try a bar cart! It’s perfect for storing items that you need access too but you don’t want them to take up useful desk surface space.

 

 

10. Bar cart outdoor entertaining. 

The bar cart is also perfect for the outdoors.  We love the vertical storage for drinks and other items – it’s easy to clean and won’t be in the way.

 

We absolutely love pieces that serve multiple purposes now and also in the furniture…

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HOME DECOR, TRENDS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – decorating with the colour of the year

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“I’m so excited about this years colour of the year! I love following home décor trends. What are some great places to add Rose Quartz into my home?”
 
 
Great question!
We’re super excited about this years colour of the year! Soft shades of pinks have been in home décor for the past few seasons and it’s a colour that pairs beautifully with so many other colours. We love mixing metals in with this
gorgeous shade of Rose!
This is a very versatile shade that can be used in so many places in your home. I don’t think there’s a room this wouldn’t work in!

Here’s a few suggestions for the most prominent places to show it off in your décor.

 

A fabulous spot for this colour is in your bedroom!

So many people are using soft, serene tones in bedrooms, and this is the perfect colour for implementing this in your home. Adding an art piece with rose tones, or lamps would be a great refresher for your space. Another easy place to add this colour is in throw pillows and blankets.
Adding just a few touches to your bedroom will make your space feel transformed and very on-trend!
 

Adding Rose Quartz to your living room is another fabulous idea.

The great thing about this too is that the living room is a more common area for you to show off these trendy new additions. (your friends will be jealous at how ‘on trend’ you are this season!!) As in the bedroom, adding a Rose Quartz throw pillow or blanket will be a great addition to your space. Combining this beautiful tone with golds and rose golds is a beautiful pairing. Even with chrome!!
 
We will be seeing lots of accessories with these soft pink hues, so if lamps and pillows are too big of a commitment
for you, try adding various accessories! Candle, candle holders, trays, floral arrangements and vases are great spots for this pop of colour!

Adding Rose Quartz accents to your bathroom is another great spot to be ‘trendy’.

Pink towels, art or soaps will give your space a modern refresh!
 
This is a fabulous shade to mix and match your colour palettes. Rose Quartz is such a soft hue, its practically a neutral! Pair with reds, blues, white, grey, beige, metallics, various textures and so much more!
Be creative!
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HOME DECOR, TRENDS

Is GREY still in? Here’s What We Think….

is-grey-still-in-heres-what-we-think

We are often asked about trends in home decor and design.  Just the other day at a neighbourhood party, one of the questions asked was ‘Is grey still in?’

Here’s what we have to say…

Grey is a neutral so it is never really out. 

But what we will say is the cooler greys (so think grey with a blue-purple under tone) is on it’s way out.  We are seeing a lean toward the warmer greys.  This is a tone that we love for many reasons.

We love it because it is warm. Who doesn’t want a space that feel inviting?

We love it because it works beautifully with neutrals

…like navy, white and charcoal but also just as well with bold colours like yellow and hot pink and even with softer hues like mint and lavender.  It is so versatile!

It works with all styles of decor.

You can have a warm neutral farmhouse kitchen full of reclaimed wood and ages copper touches and an apron sink but you could also have a warm grey living room in a modern minimalist space with open windows, concrete floors and soaring ceilings.  It works with either of these styles plus anything in between.

We love it because it is great transitional tone. 

So if your home was very warm beige and you want to move into a grey tone for a change, a warm grey is perfect for you – it means you won’t have to adjust all of your furniture, it will still work because of the warmth in the new grey tone.

We love it in paint, flooring, furniture, tiles, cabinetry, textiles and more.

So to answer the question, yes, grey is still in! Thinking of making a change to grey? Stick to warmer greys that work with your current palette.

SHOP SHADES OF GREY…

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HOME DECOR, TRENDS

2016 Trends for the Home

2016-trends-for-home

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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INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, TRENDS

5 uses for trays and why I love them!

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Trays are nothing new.  They aren’t trending and they aren’t usually on any one’s ‘must-get’ list.  But I love trays.  There is something so simple and tidy about them and they can be used in so many rooms.

Trays come in different sizes, colours and materials and I love them all!  They keep items in an organized yet stylish arrangement plus when it comes to cleaning – just move the tray out of the way and clean !

When using a tray as a part of your room’s decor be sure to add some decorative elements like a vase of flowers, candles something so that it just doesn’t look completely functional.

1 – The living room:

I love having a tray on an ottoman or even the chaise of a sectional.  They provide a flat surface for serving up snacks and drinks but they also provide a neat and tidy space for TV remotes and coasters.  But you can also use them as a display area for decor on a coffee table.

2 – The Kitchen:

Not the usual spot for a tray but again they keep the items you need easy access to at arm’s length but without the clutter.  I have one in my kitchen to hold my knife block, salt and pepper, olive oil, a tea towel and other small essentials.

3 – The Bathroom :

A smaller tray would be needed but it saves the same purpose keeping your counter top clean and clutter free.  Depending on the look of your bathroom, you could opt for a mirrored option to add some sparkle and shine!

4 – The dresser:

A tray is a great spot to group items you use everyday together.  So think lotions and potions, jewellery and scarves, make up etc…You could likely opt for a larger tray for on top of the dresser (if you have the surface space).  I also love small dishes (think tea saucers) for small jewellery items.

5 – The Bed:

Breakfast in bed!  Serving space for coffee, fruit, croissant and more…such a wonderful way to wake up someone special!  Do I need to say anything more?

Useful and stylish – the perfect piece to have at home, I love mine!


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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, TRENDS

How to Get The Look: Modern Country

how-to-get-look-modern-country

Country decorating has come a long way. It has always been a popular home decorating style but it has really changed in recent years. In the past this has included such elements of the style as handmade items, collections, and rustic charm. While country style will always epitomize home and warmth, its time to bring country design into the modern era. We call this decorating style “Modern Country“. Modern country is still charming, and rustic but with some clean lines and cool colour palettes it has a ‘cooler’ vibe. If you love that laid back rustic style with a modern edge – better know as Modern Country,  here’s how to get it.

 

Clean it up

Traditional country decorating has been often accused of being “cluttered”. Modern country decorating is anything but! So it’s time to seriously edit and pack away all those little things that don’t contribute to the overall design scheme. Don’t go overboard though, country is about home and family, so you don’t want to eliminate everything that’s personal. Create a box of decorative items to store, and rotate favorite accents with the seasons.

Choose a simple and clean color scheme

Update your country decorating look with a more modern color scheme. Pick one color, then try combining it with white or neutrals for a stylish look that isn’t dated, and doesn’t cause confusion for the eye. Add textures to give the room great interest and contrast. Keep patterns to a minimum, and try to incorporate some of the new classics or a modern floral that uses white and one color in its design. Think tone-on-tone for a soothing look in the space. We like a great light neutral on the walls and then for accessories layers of soft greys, taupes even dried herb tones look great with this style.

Choose your inspiration

Choosing your inspiration for the modern country decorating look is kind of like choosing a theme. But instead of the cutesy country themes of the past are passe, you are choosing an inspiration that creates a feeling. Gone are the roosters and instead think of a theme inspired by the mountains in Colorado, or the high country of Santa Fe.
You can actually picture the “feeling” of the room just by those descriptive words, and that’s what will give you guidance and keep you on track. Look through photos for inspiration, that will help you stay on track but again, don’t go over board! You don’t want a theme room like “this the dairy farm room” take what you love about the feel of the country and incorporate that in the space.

Light the way

One of the fastest ways to update an outdated decorating shame is to add a modern lighting fixture. This works great with the “Modern Country” as they compliment each other well. Think West Elm, Restoration Hardware or Pottery Barn.

Texture

So important in this look! When it comes to country decor it’s really about comfort and ease, so texture can really help with that.  Think canvas, wool, distressed denim, flannel, distressed leather and mixing it all up on a sofa.  Be sure to add other textures too like reclaimed wood, stone and brick for another layer of texture. Elements of nature are another great way to add texture to your space.

Accessorize

The “more is more” traditional country decorating look of the past is just that…it’s in the past. Choose a few great pieces to display at a time. Mix and match with other styles, offering interest and contrast, and bringing more attention to your beloved possessions. If you have a collection, or want to showcase Grandmas quilt, then showcase it. But display it gallery style and give each piece importance. Don’t just use something for the sake of having something fill a space. Treat the things you love like art.
Another great way to make a country piece look more current is framing your art.  So a country landscape with a clean white over sized matte and black frame is easy and looks clean and modern.
Look for country piece like large milk jugs, butter churners, pickle jars, mason jars etc…they add great character and some texture to the space and of course, they have that country feel
Look for inexpensive antiques that can be used to create a unique wall collection such as postcards or antique flatware. Add items from nature, but be selective. Leave some space around your treasures for the eye to rest. If a wall or a room is cluttered no one can focus on your beautiful pieces – art or artifacts. So keep it simple that’s really important in modern country decor.

Relax

Above all, relax and enjoy the creative process. There are no rules in decorating that can’t be broken. Modern Country Decorating is a fantastic way to take a beloved home decorating style of the past, and give it a current twist.

 

 Modern country might sound contradictory but it is a beautiful blend of relaxed and styled decor.  We hope you love this look as much as we do!
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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, TRENDS

Top 10 Colours for Fall 2015 and How To decorate with them

top-10-colours-for-fall-2015-and-how-to

These 10 colours are the predictions from Pantone.  We have seen some of these tones in recent years or similar tones like Amethyst Orchid, Cadmium Orange and the Biscay Bay are very similar to Radiant Orchid, Tangerine and Emerald.

 

This colour palette is a great blend of some summer hues and richer fall hues.  These colours (more or less) all work together but in some unexpected combinations.  For example mixing an earthy shade like Dried Herb with a soft pastel like Amethyst Orchid.  The possibilities of visually interesting combinations are endless.

 

So how can you use these #Fall2015 colours at home?

Well, most of us likely have one of these neutral tones in our current decor – maybe a large furniture piece like a sofa or a wall colour.  If that’s the case, build on that neutral piece by adding art or accessories or even textiles like pillows, rugs or even drapery with some of the more colourful, punchy tones.

 


Here’s a very simple example of mixing the dried herb and the orange in accessories.

Look for some statement pieces that combine the colours together!  We love this leaf motif area rug that blends – biscay bay and stormy weather. With some white and soft aqua for contrast balance.  But this would look great in a living room or bedroom with shades of grey and some pops of biscay bay (and other members of that ‘teal’ family)

 

We love what art can do to a room.  Especially over sized art!  It makes a room look expensive but also complete.  An art piece is a great way to pull a colour scheme together or even add an unexpected pop of colour! The image below is a great example of a neutral and class colour combination and adding a piece of art with colour – it totally changes the space! This combines the reflecting pond and the amethyst orchid and cashmere rose.

When it comes to using colours that area trending you don’t have to have the exact hue, but keep it in the family.

Use the trending colours as a guideline – it’s a great way to come up with something new and fresh!

 

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