WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY Archives | Page 4 of 88

We Answer Wednesday – A Whole Home Colour Concept

May 4, 2016

“I want to have a cohesive look in my home – my entire home. How can I do that without being boring?”

Most people like the look and feel of a home with flow and cohesiveness. There are a number of tricks and tips to help you achieve a cohesive space but the easiest way to create a cohesive or fluid look in your whole home is through colour.

Creating a colour palette or colour concept for your entire home will make your decorating choices much easier but also you will connect each room to the next, so even if the style varies a bit in each room you still have a common thread pulling it all together.

Think about the magazine images and model homes that you have seen (and likely fallen in love with) …sure, they are full of beautiful and brand new furniture but one of the big reasons why they feel so good is the colour choices.

We can’t all live in a ‘model home’ that’s not realistic but we can take inspiration from these showstoppers. Here’s how: by using a limited number of colours and using them in different ways in each space to create a fluid and cohesive home.

Let’s get started:

1. The colors you use in your home are completely up to you.

Do what makes you feel fabulous cause no one ever gets sick of that right? So you don’t have to paint your entire home white or beige – pick a colour that you like. It could be grey, green, beige, taupe, blues even bolder choices like yellow or purple.

2. Stick to 3-5 colors for your color palette.

For those of you who love color, this may feel limiting, but I promise you will still end up with a colorful home. For those of you with a fear of color, go with more muted shades of color so that you add color into your life without it being too in your face.

We personally recommend a neutral in that palette if you want some bolder colour, for instance if you want some yellow we like mixing in a neutral like grey. But you don’t have to.

3. We are not talking about redoing your entire home tomorrow

– that may not be in your budget and that’s OK. We are talking about setting up a color plan so that over time it will guide your decorating decisions and eventually you will have a beautiful home that is totally you and flows nicely from one room to another.

So be sure to write your plan down somewhere and include the names, brands and formula codes of the paint colours you have selected.

Starting with your favorite color means that you won’t be getting sick of it any time soon. Now I’m not saying that if your favorite color is cobalt blue to go paint all of your walls that color, but you can most definitely use it as a starting point. Use that bold blue as your inspiration.

Remember your ‘colour plan’ isn’t just about paint, it is about creating a cohesive look using colour – so think about your paint but also think about furniture, accessories, rugs and more.

See the image below – that bold cobalt blue is part of the decor scheme using accessories. Only you can determine the amount of bold colour you can handle or want in your space.

Still not sure on which colour direction to head in because you like all colour?

Think about the feeling you want to create at home. Do you want your home to feel calm and spa like? Or lively with lots of contrast?

Or how about uber modern? Color will help achieve the feeling you want.

So, in summary, here’s how to get the perfect colour concept for your entire home.

1. Pick a white.

Not all whites are the same, they have various undertones. So put your white paint swatches up against your main space elements like flooring, cabinetry, and the furniture that you will be using/keeping. If you know what kind of palette you want – cool or warm, look at your whites. If a white looks a bit blue-ih or grey-ish, that’s a cool white. If your white looks warmer even with a touch of yellow, that’s a warm tone. You can choose either – it’s up to you but you want those undertones to be consistent throughout your colour palette.

2. Pick a neutral.

This will be the main colour in the home, some called it the ‘field’ colour. This will be the colour that really connects all of the rooms. Now using the term neutral doesn’t mean you need to pick beige or beige – you can get more creative with greys, taupes, even soft greens, yellows or blues. you will see a lot of this colour in your space – which is why we recommend something softer and more subtle, many of us tire of deep and bold tones after a while.

3. Pick a saturated colour.

Because you have neutral tone so far this is where you can get a little more adventurous, if you like; and you can choose any colour you like! If colour isn’t your thing, we suggest opting for a deeper neutral like a charcoal grey or perhaps a deep brown. Keep in mind this colour may not necessarily be on your walls – it might be used as an accent (remember the bedroom image above with the cobalt blue accents). If you really want this colour on a wall, an accent wall would work.

Typically for smaller and more open concept spaces, like a condo-apartment we recommend stopping at 2-3 paint colours and the rest be used for accent colours – so for accessories, bedding, art etc…

This room is playing with various neutral – really only 3. White, tan and charcoal. This is an easy neutral palette but the mix of timeless neutrals and adding some texture – see the wood framed mirror, the glass end table and pops of gold- they follow the colour palette plan and create this very sophisticated space. Neutral doesn’t mean boring.

4 and 5. Pick accent colours.

You have lots of choices depending on the look and feel you want. These colours will be used in decorative accents and they will compliment the above 3 colours – so everything works nicely together to get you that designer look and feel.

If you want a calmer feel and a monochromatic look – add some neutrals in various shades. If you want more ‘pop’ add some complimentary colours, so if you have blue already think about adding some orange and/or yellow to really make things bright and fun.

Take a look at the image above, there is a 5 tone palette – with a white, a neutral and 3 pops of colour. The soft aqua is the main colourful element and the blush and coral and secondary. there are some various tones in this image but they all work together to create a cohesive look because there is a plan.

So now that you have your palette or colour concept what do you do next?

Use these colours as your guide which means it is all about using the colors (or variations of the colors) you chose differently in each room. Remember this is just your guide. Going up or down a shade or 2 to make it work in the space you are doing is great. The idea is to stick to your palette as a guide. So when you are shopping for some art and accessories keep the palette in mind but don’t panic if you don’t have exact matches.

When you plan ahead instead of ‘making it up as you go along’ – you really see the difference and you get that designer look. But it’s never too late, so work with what you’ve got and pull it together using these tips!

0 comment

INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – 3 Styles of Roman Shades

April 27, 2016

“I love the look of roman shades but am not sure which style to incorporate into my home. Any suggestions?”

We also love Roman Shades! They are a great option because you can see way more of the pattern this way. There are also a few different ‘shape’ options for these. Roman shades are a really great option if you are looking to add window treatments to a smaller room because they are most often mounted inside the trim. This way you are not losing any wall space.

One negative about having Roman shades is that they take a little more TLC to make them look right. When you put them up, you often have to re-fold and line them up to make sure the fabric isn’t wrinkled. Let’s call it “train your shade”. When using a lighter fabric, this is less of an issue because it will typically fold into the correct shape. This will mostly need to be done with a heavier fabric.

Roman shades are great in bedrooms because they can also be lined. This way you get the look and the darkness/privacy you would with drapery panels. There are a few styles that you can have of roman shades..

There are 3 types of Roman Shades :-

Flat Roman Shade:

A more modern look, it shows off the pattern so well and isn’t fussy. It can also work very well on French doors. See the image below, you can see the simplicity of this shade. We like this style in a ‘busier’ pattern as the print becomes the focus.

Relaxed Shades:

A more traditional option but can still work in any space. I would say that they are “prettier” and “softer” than a flat Roman Shade because of the curvature. Because they have less construction they will bow more in the middle which gives them that beautiful shape. The only downside to a relaxed shade is because there is less structure they shouldn’t be done on a window wider than 54”. It was sag more in the middle. If you window is larger than 54”, consider doing two smaller shades instead.

Butterfly Shades:

These are very traditional. A butterfly shade has a swoop in the middle and ties on the end. Almost like a small bow on either sides. They are very feminine and soft and look great in a light colour.

Roman shades can be mounted inside or outside the trim. If you have beautiful trim you want to show off or a smaller space you don’t want to cover the walls, we suggest an inside mount. The great trick with an outside mount is that you can give the illusion of a larger wall/window but mounting higher up than the window starts. This will elongate the window and also give you more space to show off that beautiful fabric!

Roman shades work with all styles of decor and they are perfect for spaces where you don’t want any fussy drapery to deal with,

0 comment

HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to decorate a stylish home with pets

April 20, 2016

“I love my dog. She’s my world but I need some ideas to make my home stylish yet still pet friendly.”

We love pets but yes, they can cramp your style and put some limits on your decor choices but you can live in style with pets. Work with your lifestyle not against it and it will all come together beautifully

But there are ways to live in style with your furry little friends – the right pieces, materials and a bit of creativity can get you the look you crave.

1- Ditch the blankets (the multiple blankets) that you use to cover your sofa and chairs to keep the pet hair off! Instead opt for pet friendly fabrics. Leather is a good choice for homeowners with pets. It is durable
and easy to clean. Most grades will only be affected by pet scratches. If you are uncomfortable buying leather, buy pleather. It is cruelty-free, cost-effective, and pleasing to the eye. Have you heard of Crypton? It is an upholstery fabric made to fit your lifestyle. Soft, durable, and resistant to both stains and odors, Crypton Home fabric is available in a wide array of textures and vibrant colors. The image below is a Pottery barn sofa upholstered in Crypton Home Fabric.

2 – Skip wall-to-wall carpet. Carpet is like a pet hair magnet, so either opt out or be prepared to vacuum regularly Want the look of carpet – choose an area rug – it’s less time consuming to clean and you can always bring outside to air out (and shake out). If you must have carpet choose a low pile. It’s easier to clean if there’s an accident. And avoid continuous loop carpet because a pet toenail can unravel it by catching a single woven loop.

3 – Put washable fabrics on your bed. If you have a pet, cat or dog, chances are they make their way into your bed at some point. Protect your mattress from the inevitable by covering it with a thick pad. Use cotton bed sheets, preferably in a medium color or a pattern that can hide the pet hair and stains between washings. For bedspreads, duvet covers work well because you can take them off and wash them regularly. Delicate-looking mattress coverlets are surprisingly durable; their tight quilting resists pet toenail snags and repeated washings.

4 – Animal space near the entry. If you have a pet that goes outside take that into consideration – it’s a part of your lifestyle so what do you have at your entry? Think about your flooring – easy to clean and scratch resistant are key. Hooks and/or storage for leashes and other dog belongings. A basket with park toys and/or winter apparel.

5 – Match your colours to your pet’s fur. Use your pet as a source of inspiration when choosing colors for your room. Paint a concrete floor the same shade of gray as your cat. Cover your sofa in a honey microfiber that matches your golden retriever. This isn’t just an aesthetic shout-out to your pet; it’s also a practical choice because the hair they leave behind won’t be as visible. Put a white floor in a house with a black Lab, you’re going to have black ‘tumbleweeds’ everywhere.

6 – Furniture options that include your pet. Our pets are a part of our home; they are family so it is important that they are welcome in our home with some space of their own. Some easy ways to make ‘fluffy’ feel at home…

Beside table that does double duty. Place a comfy dog bed or pillow inside and your bestie has their own bed right beside you. Have some fun and get your furry friend a bed in a coordinating colour – so cute!

The front entry is a high traffic area, especially for dog owners. So have a pet station by the front door. We love this converted front entry console furniture piece. It works for everyone – so storage, some decor, and even a spot to lie in. Plus it looks great too!

Think of small customization changes you can make. The kitchen island is a great spot for dog bowls and some storage. We love these built in dog bowls – they are tucked away and that means they don’t get in the way. You can add a drawer (perfect spot for storing treats, medication, grooming tools and documents) or have an open shelf – it’s a bit more decorative but still useful.

Pets add so much love to our lives so be sure to take them into consideration when you are designing and decorating your space. Another simple tip keep your dog or cat clean will help your house stay cleaner, longer. Trimmed nails won’t scratch floors or upholstery. Regularly brushing and bathing removes loose hair before it ends up on your floor, your bed, your throw pillows, and your curtains. Furniture and rugs will last longer if they don’t need to be washed as often.

Think of it this way – It’s easier to clean your dog than your upholstery, and it’s usually more fun!

Yes, you can live in style with your furry little friends – there’s no need to give up – you just need to make the right picks so you can all live together in comfort and style!

0 comment

HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to Decorate with a Sofa Table

April 13, 2016

“I love the look of a ‘floating sofa’ but I don’t like how the back of my sofa looks – what can I do?”

This is a great question!

We LOVE the look of a floating sofa arrangement too but yes, the backs of most sofas aren’t exactly spectacular but you have lots of options.

This is where we recommend a sofa table also known as a console table. We know you are probably thinking that the idea of a sofa table is a bit formal and stuffy but no – sofa tables come in all styles – there is something for everyone. A sofa table is a great way to enhance your style with some colour and/or texture. You can decorate it how ever you like and even use the space for some storage.

A sofa table can also be useful for some extra light (if you have outlet/plug access) in a case where end tables won’t work but it could also offer some extra storage for multiple things. Think about your space, your style and your needs when it comes time to select your sofa table and don’t be afraid to get a little creative – just because something isn’t labeled as a ;sofa table’ doesn’t means it can’t be used as one.

Here are some of favourite ideas for sofa tables:

Think about adding some colour.

We love this pop of yellow in this country chic living room. It hides the back of this sofa but it isn’t too heavy. the styling of decor items like the candles, the bird cage, books and plant soften the surface. We also love the idea of the tray underneath the the sofa table – this is a great idea for some extra storage.

Think sleek and contemporary.

This wrap around low shelving piece gives this living room some extra storage, some shelving for decor and it works in this more contemporary space – plus is hides the back of that sofa. This is a great storage saving idea if you are short on space.

Think about size and your space.

Sofa tables are typically 20-32″ shorter in length than the sofa and usually 1-3″ shorter than the height of the sofa but if you have a larger or long room you might want to consider something bigger like this image above. This is a kitchen table that has been re-purposed in this living room.

We love the over size lush fern flanked by two glass candle holders. The large rattan baskets underneath are perfect storage for books, board games or extra blankets.

Think practical.

Do you work in your living room or family room? Try adding an attractive desk as your sofa table – it’s a great way to keep an eye on the kids and still get some seat work done. This hides the back of the sofa but it is also practical for a busy lifestyle.

We also love a chic chair as the seat with this desk instead of a typical desk chair – it looks great and it is useful (plus this is a great idea if you are short on space and need a work space at home)

Think storage.

Try using a sideboard, dresser or chest of drawers as your sofa table – be sure to measure the depth of the storage piece but we love the extra storage a piece like this offers. It is perfect for storing multiple things – extra dining room items, DVDs, board games, books and even think about having a liquor cabinet as your sofa table.

We also love the surface space that a sofa table offers – if you like to entertain you can use this as a serving space for certain items or just as a great flat surface for guests to sit down their drinks

Think extra seating.

If you love to entertain the sofa table is a great spot to store some extra seating (like stools or ottomans)and the sofa table is perfect for snacks and drinks – think Super Bowl parties, big movie nights, playoffs (any sport) or season finale nights – if you entertain a lot, you might want to keep high back seating like the image above but if you only need it on occasion, you might want to opt for something that can be tucked cleanly underneath (see the image below)

The sofa table isn’t an ‘old fashioned’ piece – there are so many options and style to suite every decor.

It really completes the look of a floating sofa and they offer a lot of practical storage and surface options, too – find a piece that suits you and your lifestyle,

0 comment

HOME DECOR, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

How to make a beige room look modern

April 6, 2016

“I know grey is trending but I can’t change all of the beige (tiles, paint and furniture) in my home. How can I make my beige house look modern and current?”

You are right grey is still the hottest neutral right now but don’t get down on your beige. It is still a classic and the good news is – it works with everything. We are actually working on a model condo suite and we are repurposing furniture from a former model and we are working with beige. This hue is beautiful and it has a really nice warmth to it – so even if it is not trending doesn’t mean you need to toss out your beige! Think of your beige home as a perfect canvas for just about anything you want to do to make it look more current.

Here are some ideas to give your neutral space and instant lift!

1 – Beige and Grey –

OK so grey is hot but you can’t re-do the whole house. Since beige is a neutral it works will all other neutrals so why not add a bit of grey? Take a look at this image below. The neutral walls and furniture but that area rug in a cool charcoal makes this room stand out. It really keeps this room from looking washed out.

2 – Beige and Black.

Yes, black is another neutral but adding black to an all soft neutral space gives it instant glamour and sophistication. We love the pops of black in this beige bedroom. And if you look closely you will notice the bedside table is a glossy charcoal grey – adding these dark neutrals really make the room pop with some contrast

3 – Add Texture.

A beige on beige room can be boring but not if you add texture. Mixing different textures in one space can make it very visually interesting. This room isn’t bold or bright but it is far from boring. This neutral tone on tone room has some different textures – the solid glass coffee table, the macrame wall hanging, the cow hide rug ;and the velvet and silk textures on the sofa – give this room some depth and sophistication.

4 – Add some colour.

Beige is a beautiful blank canvas so have some fun! Add some bold pops of colour and some pattern, too. This gives any room some life. Because beige is a neutral you can opt for any colour and as many as you like.

5 – Add some animal print.

Pairing a neutral like beige with any animal print adds a luxurious touch. Any animal print will work – leopard, cheetah, zebra even cow. We love the classic glamour of an animal print – think area rug, pillows, accent chair or ottomans.

6 – Add print.

Many think this neutral shade can be boring but add a little print and you are back to life. We love these chocolate and cream print pillows they add some real pop to the room. The natural elements in this room also play with the natural tone of beige – the sisal rug, the decorative wood sculpture and the greenery add an organic factor to the space. Simple yet chic.

Creating a modern or current looking room is about the actual pieces, how they are arranged or placed in the room – so don’t get caught up in which colours are ‘hot’ and ‘trending’

BECAUSE IT’S ALL ABOUT THAT BEIGE…

0 comment

LIGHTING, TRENDS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – What is Sculptural Lighting?

March 30, 2016

“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!

0 comment

BEDROOMS, HOME STAGING, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to Style a Bedroom

March 23, 2016

“How do I make my basic bedroom look more expensive?”

The bedroom is the perfect spot to kick back and relax. We aim to create a beautiful bed when we stage homes, it really makes the whole room feel calm but luxurious at the same time.

We have a few recommendations to create the ultimate bedroom retreat.

1- Clean and simple bedding.

We highly recommend plain white bedding. It is simple but timeless. it looks so fresh, bright and clean like a chic hotel room but you can also style it how ever you like.

For personal use, it is worth investing in high quality but for home staging it isn’t. Add colour and pattern with bed accessories like blankets and pillows.

2 – Layering.

We often only sleep on one pillow but when it comes to styling a bed you definitely want more pillows – it looks luxurious but it also looks like a comfortable spot to lay your head. there are a few ways to layer your pillows.

See the diagram below for some options. There is no wrong answer, it is a matter of preference. For a king size bed, you can use the same options but add a third Euro (large square pillow) and use king size pillows.

3. Texture.

We talk about texture a lot. But texture is a great way to add some softness and a touch of glamour. People love touchable fabrics and where better than a bedroom.

You want to create a room that you want to snuggle up in (whether for yourself or for a potential buyer). Think pillows and throw blankets in fur (faux) and knits.

4. Lighting.

Just like your pillows and bedding you want to layer your lighting. Think over head – a beautiful fixture really brings a bedroom to life and can be a great piece to set your decor tone. But don’t forget about bedside lighting – end tables with table lamps seems obvious but it works and when it comes to table lamps there are many fabulous choices.

Don’t have room for end tables? Try some sconces – double swing arm sconces are perfect for those who love to read at night.

5. Walls and Windows.

Some art and drapery can really complete the look of a bedroom. We love a bedroom with some art – it really is like jewelry for an outfit. It pulls it all together. Depending on the room arrangement and furniture styles, art above the end tables is a timeless and chic look but we also love an oversized piece above a headboard.

For the window this function and fashion, some soft drapery panels frame a window beautifully but you may want to add some blinds, shutters or shades to give the room more privacy.

6. Seating and storage.

You may be able to add both depending on the size of the room. It is always a nice addition to have a small seating corner in a bedroom but not all bedrooms can fit a chair – if you have room for a bench or a storage bench that can look very chic at the end of a bed.

Another great look and a practical use of furniture too is over sized end tables. when you are staging your home – you don’t want the room to look over stuffed with furniture to pick and choose pieces carefully, maybe a small chair in the corner and standard size beside tables is likely best.

What you will notice in these images is a consistent thread of layers on the bed, a soft colour palette, a mix of textures, subtle patterns (if any) and upholstered headboards.

We love a timeless and chic bedroom but since the space is yours make it truly yours and surround yourself with what you love and what you want to see in your most personal space.

0 comment

HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How To Decorate With a Theme

March 16, 2016

“I love the relaxed feel of the beach and I want to bring a beachy look into my space but I don’t want my home to look over the top (cheesy). How can I decorate with a theme and not go overboard? “

A theme is a great source of inspiration when it comes to home decor. But you are right, of you aren’t careful you can get carried away and the theme can take over.

If you love the beach – this is a great start – you know what you want and like!

So think about the elements of the beach – soft and tonal colours, natural materials, easy fabrics, casual and relaxed are what you will want to see in the space, so look for pieces that have those features. You don’t necessarily need ‘beach’ items like shells, photos of the beach or nautical pieces but a few carefully selected items of this ilk can really solidify your theme.

Here’s an example of a coastal inspired living room with the theme kept to a minimum.

Notice the soft tones, a few coral accents (the table and on the throw pillows), nautical stripes and a few touches of blue. Overall this space has some beach-y elements but the theme isn’t super obvious.

Here’s another example of a beach inspired living room.

We see some natural wood pieces like the show stopping chandelier and the coffee table. We also see some white washed rattan accents. there are some pops of soft blue like the sea and some beach glass accessories, too.

Here’s the other side of that space, the dining area, we see a few more beach inspired pieces like the hurricane lanterns, the sea foam upholstered chairs and some sea shell decor on the built-in.

Here’s another example of a subtle beach theme in a bedroom.

Again we do not see obvious beach decor but the inspiration is definitely there. Notice the sisal area rug it adds that natural texture. The mix of soft and easy textures on the bed and the colour tones are natural beach hues.

What really makes this room not scream ‘beach theme’ is the choice of prints in the throw pillows and drapery – the prints are quite traditional (trellis and floral) but in those tones. So again you get this timeless looking space. The canopy bed is so romantic something you would expect to see at luxurious beach resort.

If you are concerned about the longevity of the theme, keep the main elements neutral like paint, flooring, drapery and furniture – you can add in art, pillows and other accessories that embrace the theme.

When you want to decorate with a theme in mind you don’t have to be too literal. Think about your chosen theme and why it has inspired you- what are the elements you love about this theme and take it from there. If you do that, you will have a look that you love and a look that will last (a timeless look).

0 comment

INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Update a Black and White Room

March 2, 2016

“I live in an open concept condo space. I chose a black and white theme – it’s timeless and stylish but also easy but I’m in need of a bit of an update. How can I keep my main theme of black and white – what are some easy updates to my theme?”

You are so right that black and white are timeless and of course, chic! We love a black and white decor scheme but every now and then no matter the theme, an update is in need.

When it comes to an easy and affordable update you need to stick with what you currently have and just add to it. The good news is you don’t need to add a lot to make this change. The even better news for you is that black and white work with just about everything and you have an endless supply of ideas – it really just comes down to what works for YOU!

Here are some ideas….

GOLD.

Adding a touch of gold to a black and white room just gives the whole space some extra glam and luxury. this about gold pillows, lamps, art and accessories. Even just the smallest touch of gold can go a long way. Gold never goes out of style but right now is it hot, so you will see gold everywhere!

If gold isn’t for you, try silver or rose gold. The gold and rose gold add warmth and a touch of glam to a space the silver is a bit sleeker but all of them work

COLOUR.

Because black and white are classic neutrals – they ‘go’ with everything! So add a pop of colour – red is a classic combination with black and white. If you want to try something a bit different try something equally bold like bright pink, turquoise or lime green. This looks great in a contemporary style. This pillows and art for a colour injection!

PASTEL.

Rose quartz is the hot colour for 2016, so add it to your black and white motif. You don’t need a lot to make a splash. And even though this colour is soft and subtle it really makes a statement. We love mixing some solid pastels with pattern black and white.

FUR.

Texture is another great way to add a designer look to a room and fur is another hot textile this year. We opt for faux options – it’s friendlier, easier to clean and you have a ton of possibilities. what we really like about mixing fur and black/white is that you are once again playing with neutrals so you can choose a white fur, black, grey even beige – it all works! We are seeing fur used in many ways – area rugs, throws, pillows, full blankets, poofs and ottomans. Don’t over do it – just one fur elements can do wonders!

PATTERN.

Too many solids in one space can look flat, so mix it up with some prints and patterns. Don’t be afraid to mix your patterns – it’s so chic! Patterns are best on items that are accent pieces – think pillow and rugs. Keep the other elements in the room like the main furniture pieces, wall colour and drapery pretty basic if this is a look you want to explore.

When it comes to ‘playing’ with your black and white palette you can mix a lot of these, so add a touch of metallic, some fur and a pinch of colour. Find the balance that works for you!

0 comment

KITCHENS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Contemporary Backsplash Ideas

February 24, 2016

“My home is mostly contemporary style with some pops of colour throughout. I am planning to add a back splash to my kitchen in the near future but want to make sure it’s a similar style to the rest of my home. What are some contemporary tiles I could consider?”

Great question!

There are so many great products on the market, we know the choices can be overwhelming. A lot of these tiles can be laid in different patterns, some more contemporary than others. Clean lines and a monochromatic colour scheme are what helps to define what a contemporary design is. Here are some great options for a contemporary back splash:

Subway Tiles:

Probably the most popular choice for a contemporary space.. Subway tiles come in many colours and sizes. You can get smaller or larger. 4×16 or 2×3 and many sizes in between. They come beveled or with a slight texture. They can be laid in a classic brick pattern or for a more contemporary look, try them straight laid. These are a simple, clean option that will brighten up any space. The flexibility to lay them in a variety of patterns makes them a super versatile option for your space.

Mosaic Tiles:

Depending on the colour palette that you chose, this can vary from a traditional tile to a contemporary tile. Again, a monochromatic colour scheme is more contemporary than a variety of bright colours. Sticking to neutrals and shades is sure way to keep the style consistent.

Textured Tiles:

All tile doesn’t have to be flat and boring. Adding a wavy geometric tile that is raised adds a different dimension to your design. If you’re a person who likes a monochromatic colour scheme this is probably the best option for you.

Slabs:

Adding a solid slab to your back splash is definitely a pricier option, but it is very contemporary, depending on the piece you choose. A marble or solid colour (with subtle veining) is a great choice for a contemporary space. It’s important to ensure that that it complements the existing counter top. The colour and material needs to flow together to make the space look harmonious.

Glass Tiles:

Adding a simple, straight or brick laid glass tiles with a subtle colour is a great look for someone who is a little bit more edgy. This option pairs great with high gloss cabinetry. Neutrals are great too! Glass tile comes in many soft colours such as sea foam, aqua and so many other shades. The colour options are truly endless!

We love what back splash tiles do to a kitchen – it pulls it all together, like accessories in a room or jewelry with an outfit…back splashes you complete the kitchen,

0 comment

1 2 345 6…9