HOME DECOR, REAL ESTATE

Garage Makeover: How to Transform Your Garage

garage-makeover-how-to-transform-your-garage

Often an afterthought, the garage is usually wasted space in a home. Instead of putting an addition on your home, consider transforming your garage into a usable space.

If your garage is simply a place to put all your stuff that doesn’t fit anywhere else or is just the area for extra freezer space, then you are missing out on a prime opportunity.

Instead, create a space that will add life to it and take some pressure off of other areas of your home.

In this article, I will go over some ideas on how to make better use of your garage space.

Photo credit: hgtv.com

Start with upgrading the space

Before you can plan on what to do with the room, give it a good clean up and upgrade some of the fixtures. 

You should start with a quiet garage door opener from soundproofpanda.com/ to figure out which one is best for your garage. There is nothing that kills a vibe than a loud door opening. If you’re lucky you may even find a garage door that matches your front door.

Then clear out your space and see what you are working with. You may want to swap out some windows and see if the floor needs some TLC.

Make it a play space

When your family starts growing you need way more space. Often, the first thought is to make an addition. If it is not in your budget, try transforming your garage into a play area for your kids.

Because of the uniqueness of the space, you can really get creative. Even adding a swing is a possibility in a garage that you couldn’t do in a spare bedroom. Sandboxes, sensory tables, things like that are all possible now.

Home office

If you work from home, then you can add a few steps onto your commute by making your office in the garage. 

You can take over the entire garage or use just a corner depending on your needs. That opens up the area for other uses so you can really maximize the space.

The office can be as elegant or barebones as you like, but make sure you take the time to plan out the space. You need it to work best for your needs so you actually get use out of it. 


Photo credit: decoist.com

Home gym

Forget about spending tons of money on a gym membership that is also hard to cancel. You can set up your garage with everything you need for your own personal workout space. 

The best part is that you don’t have to deal with anybody else’s sweat on your machines! 

You have all that space at your disposal. Use the walls for full size mirrors so you can watch your workout technique. The floor can be softened with mats or left as is. 

Spare bedroom

If the walls are insulated, then you can even use it as a spare room for guests. If you live in a touristy area, then renting it out on Airbnb will help you pay your mortgage!


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BEAUTY + STYLE, FASHION + STYLE

Sweater Weather

sweater-weather

I am definitely not a fan of cold weather but the only things that I do like is a cozy sweater. At home, we have a dusting of snow on the ground so I am keeping myself warm both at work and on the weekend by wrapping myself up in my favourite sweaters!

When it comes to finding the perfect sweater I have a few musts…

My Sweater Wardrobe “look-fors”…

  1. I love a neutral tone (I have been drawn to cream and light grey tones this year but you can’t go wrong with classic black) Neutrals work with everything and if you are considering investing in a gorgeous sweater – I like to know it’s going to always be “in”.
  2. For work I like a lighter knit – you can layer with a great jacket, a cardi or a vest.
  3. I opt for for oversized sweaters for the weekend but a boyfriend fit is great for work or play
  4. Soft, soft, soft – it has to be soft. I personally have a hard time with wool (it makes me so itchy) so I love cashmere but I often get synthetic fibers (because you know budget – But i have invested in a few cashmere pieces….)
  5. I find v necks are very flattering (but nothing too deep for work) – I have a shorter neck so a v-neck gives me length
  6. A loose turtleneck is perfect for chilly days and nights…cozy and cute!

My Top 6 favourite sweater picks

I love the softness of this colour combination and the knit itself – I love this sweater for the weekend with skinny jeans and some great boots. But add a classic camel overcoat and it’s chic for work – add a vest and you are ready for a coffee on a crisp fall weekend!

This is the perfect weekend sweater (or even a date night sweater for a cozy night with hubby). Add some leggings – I love this sweater with a leather legging and some great heels, hoops and a bold lip. But this can also work for a relaxing weekend at home when you want to look cute! This sweater is so affordable (under $30) and incredibly soft!

Sweaters don’t have to be chunky….this is a perfect sweater for work (or date night with the right accessories) I love this colour but there are so many more choices and they are all stunning ! This is a great transitional sweater for your wardrobe as it would be ideal for spring as well!

Hello cozy! This sweater is made of all things cozy – the turtleneck (which is a bit on the loose side – I personally don’t like anything tight near my neck), it is so soft and I love the texture. I love the length of this sweater too, hip length (which I’m also finding really flattering especially on petites)

A cardi is a perfect piece for work or the weekend. I love this cardi because it has a great flattering shape to it – a tshirt or a great fitting tank is all you need with some great fitting jeans or trousers – I love this with my trouser jeans! I am personally drawn to this rusty-copper shade but it does come in a light grey which is also really nice.

There is something so chic about a boyfriend sweater – and this one is a perfect addition to any wardrobe. I love a boyfriend style sweater like this one because it is a classic with the right amount of oversized. It’s perfect for weekends but I wear mine to work all the time – a simple French tuck into jeans or slim trousers and you look so stylish!

These are my favourites for sweater weather favourites – which is your favourite?

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BEDROOMS

A guide to restyling a bedroom when an elderly parent moves in

a-guide-to-restyling-a-bedroom-when-an-elderly-parent-moves-in

Family is important to us all. Sometimes them moving into our current home is the easiest way to ensure that they are properly looked after. This doesn’t come without its stresses and it can be a transition for all concerned. Ensuring that their new bedroom is a comfortable and relaxing place for them can however ease some of the pressure on both sides. This guide will give some tips as to how to make things go as smoothly as possible.

Make it feel like home

Living in new surroundings can be quite daunting at first, even if they are used to visiting regularly. Try, where possible, to make sure that there is adequate space in their room with good storage. Make sure there is space for precious items like family pictures and sentimental pieces that they like to be close at hand. Having some familiar items will make them feel more at home.

Agree what’s staying and what’s going

They may want to bring some existing furniture with them so perhaps you could discuss in advance which items are staying and which aren’t. It may be prudent to have an additional television in their room so you can both have your own space when needed. You may want to consider whether this should be wall mounted or if there is sufficient space and units to have it free-standing. It’s a good idea to have any necessary works carried out before they move in.

Comfort is key

Comfort is very important so you may want to look at buying a new bed for them. This should ensure good rest and a peaceful night’s sleep. If you are at all unsure about what type of bed to get for them why not consider an ergonomic bed. You will be able to get lots of advice on which model is best suited to their needs from an expert retailer.

Discuss a new look

Some new décor will make the room feel like their own. There are lots of home magazines available in stores and online. These will give you some good decoration ideas for the size of the room and for the style they may want. Pick up some paint palette charts and wallpaper samples from local DIY stores. You can have them choose some color schemes that they might like. A fresh coat of paint and some new curtains and bedding will make all the difference. Couple with some matching accessories and their new bedroom will be transformed.  

Enjoy it!

Having a parent move in provides a wonderful opportunity for the kids to spend additional time with their grandparents. It’s also an opportunity for you to have a little break. There are loads of activities they can do together both indoors and out. A trip to the park, looking through old photo albums or even watching a movie together. Regardless, it’s time that both they and the kids will treasure.  


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Uncategorized

Popular Options Compared: Which of These 6 Roofing Materials Offer the Best Longevity?

popular-options-compared-which-of-these-6-roofing-materials-offer-the-best-longevity

All roofing materials have a nice pros and cons list that is worth going through. Weather, house size, cost and environment are all things that contribute to the final decision. Finding a leader in the roofing industry should be your first step to getting the right material. Their insight will make sure that your project costs are well used. 

6. Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles work great if you want to install them on your own. They are easy to handle, and have a large variety of colors to choose from. The downside is that they’re not eco friendly (if that is a concern).

5. Clay Tile

Clay tile has the lifespan of metal materials and the low color variety of asphalt shingles. Combine that with its great looks, and it sits somewhere in the middle or upper tier of materials that you can get for a roof. The only downside is that can be a pain to repair or install on your own without experience. 

4. Slate Tile

The low maintenance of slate tile makes it a great choice if you want to do the install on your own. It’s beautiful, easy to handle and has very high durability. Surprisingly, the material is expensive to use on bigger projects. The cost of slate tile can add up, so make sure you’re committed before a purchase. And since it is one of the heavier materials, handling it can be bad for installers with arthritis or back problems. 

3. Concrete Tile

Right from the start builders will notice the high price tag of concrete material. It makes up for it by being durable without the additional weight of slate tile. There are a great number of choices with styles and colors in the concrete tile catalog. If you have a vivid imagination (and good standing bank account), consider concrete tile one of the better materials to work with. 

2. Wood Shingles

The long lifespan of wood shingles is hard to beat when you are prioritizing durability. When done right it can be the best-looking roof material ever installed. And that right there is the con, since you have to know what you’re doing when dealing with wood shingles. It can be an expensive mistake so it is recommended to have a professional handle the installation. 

1. Metal

Metal is considered one of the most durable materials for a roof. Its lightweight flexibility allows it to be laid over existing roof without affecting the overall maintenance. This flexibility comes with a high price tag, so make sure that you’re prepared to open the wallet a bit. 

With the right material for your roof, you guarantee the best durability for a home. Weigh the pros and cons of each material type. If there is any confusion, take time out of your day to contact a professional about the best choice. There is some insight in their advice that will make all the difference in the world. 



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HOME STYLING, STORAGE + ORGANIZING

We’re Bringing Feng Shui Back: Use It To Organize Your Home

were-bringing-feng-shui-back-use-it-to-organize-your-home

Feng shui was al the rage in the ’90s yet these days nobody really takes it into consideration when organizing the home or decorating.

This is a shame as it is a really good way to keep your mind clear while keeping a tidy and well-organized home.

Clutter and even a poorly planned furniture arrangement can kill your mood. That is what feng shui is all about. When there is no flow to your home and you see stuff everywhere that it doesn’t belong, it can make you stressed. Depressed even.

In this article, I will go over some ways to bring feng shui back when decluttering your home.

Clear your mind and your clutter

We’ve already gone over the benefits of decluttering your home.  Getting organized enough to tidy up and find the right place for everything is an emotional experience. 

It may take some time to get in the right mindset to tackle the project. Find some time to do some yoga or meditation before beginning. Try to put yourself in the right frame of mind before getting started.

Doing so will ensure that you do it right the first time and are not just sweeping stuff under the rug.

Start with the closets

It may make sense to begin with all the clutter that is visible. My opinion is to get your closets organized and spacious. Having this space will make it easier to find room for your more obvious clutter.

Start your closet organizing by finding the right hangers. Hangers made from wood take up a lot of space so use them for your heavier items. Then, use slimmer hangers like wire or plastic for your lighter clothes.

Identify the problem areas

Your living room may be just fine and not need much organizing. Your guest bedroom, on the other hand, has become a repository where everything ends up.

Knowing where to focus your attention will keep you from feeling overwhelmed. Open some windows to let in fresh air so it feels pleasant. Light some incense or fire up an essential oil dispenser to put you in a calm place.

Remove things that don’t belong in that space

The first thing when using feng shui to tidy up is to acknowledge what each space’s purpose is. For example, your bedroom is your oasis. It is where you rest and recharge and find intimacy with your loved one. There shouldn’t be exercise weights in there, or anything related to work. 

The front entrance to your home is one of the most important when trying to use feng shui. It shouldn’t have anything that interrupts the flow as you enter the space. Try to put coats and shoes in a closet that is out of the way. Mail shouldn’t be left out on a table for all to see. Find a drawer to put it in as you enter.

By clearing anything not related to the purpose of the space, you can reclaim it.


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REAL ESTATE

4 Tips for Moving Your Real Valuables to Your New Home Safely

4-tips-for-moving-your-real-valuables-to-your-new-home-safely

If you are planning to move your real valuables to your new home safely and securely, you need to know what steps to take to achieve that. Here are four pointers to keep in mind when safely moving your items to your new home.

1.  Select Your Mover Wisely

Do not make a mistake of hiring just anyone to help with your piano or any other valuable object during a move. If you want to protect and secure your valuables, you need to find a reputable and trustworthy company by ascertaining that the one you want to hire is fully licensed. In addition to that, you’ll need to get quotes from three different companies so you can compare the fee charged for moving your valuables. The estimates given should be based on in-person inspection or video inspection, so do not accept estimates over the internet or phone.

2.  Use the Right Boxes

Before you can begin to pack your valuables, make sure there are suitable boxes to carry the items you’ll be packing. If the movers are packing the valuables for you, then you need not worry about getting the boxes. However, if you’ll be packing on your own, you need to think about the boxes you will use.

Determine the size or dimensions of the boxes. Big boxes, no matter how tempting they appear, are not always suitable for small and fragile items because they could end up breaking or getting damaged during the move, especially when packed alongside the heavier items.

Smaller items should be packed in separate small boxes, and the bulky items should be put in the larger ones. This means you need to get boxes of different sizes to allow you to pack every item in its right box.

3.  Use Padding

You’ll need padding for fragile and breakable commodities. Especially if the boxes are not filled up completely, you’ll need to use padding to prevent any damage to your valuables. You do not want your fragile commodities to be tossed inside the box during transit.

Bubble wraps and foam peanuts are often used to protect fragile items. For plates, bowls, and other dishes, you could use a tissue paper or a newspaper as padding materials. If you are working on a tight budget, you can use pillows, comforters, blankets, T-shirts, and stuffed animals to protect your commodities from breaking because these materials can offer the cushioning required.

4.  Check Insurance Coverage

Check the homeowners’ insurance coverage to determine whether your belongings are covered during a move, either partially or fully. Contact your insurance agent so you can ascertain what exactly you are covered for. If you do not have any insurance or you do not have a policy covering your move, you’ll probably need to speak to an insurance agent to see if there are ways you can protect your valuables.

Taking the above pointers into consideration will go a long way in helping to protect your valuable commodities during a move. You can always hire full movers so they can take care of your commodities during a move as you focus on other important matters in your life.


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CLEANING, STORAGE + ORGANIZING

Why Decluttering Your Home Can Be One of the Best Things You Can Do

why-decluttering-your-home-can-be-one-of-the-best-things-you-can-do

Most of us would enjoy living in a neat, well-organised home, but the majority of people collect things that become clutter. It doesn’t take long for mail, clothes, and even toys to become nuisances we learn to workaround. In fact, the habit is so common that it is often considered a personal quirk. A few things lying around isn’t much of a problem, but too many odds and ends may lead to serious issues. Taking the time to declutter can be a mood booster and relieve stress. You will be more organised, calmer, and might even relieve some family tensions in the process.

Clutter Can Be Expensive

A messy, cluttered home often creates unnecessary expenses. If your home is messy, there’s a good chance you have unopened bills or other financial notices somewhere in those stacks. Simply forgetting to pay a credit card bill can cost you hundreds of dollars a year. When your belongings are so disorganised you can’t find what you need, you are likely to buy duplicates. While it does take time, effort, and a clear plan to eliminate the chaos, it’s well worth the effort. Even if clearing your junk means hiring clutter removal experts, you’ll come out ahead financially.

Removing Clutter Builds Confidence

A thorough decluttering project requires sharp decision-making skills. You must solve a series of problems. You have a certain amount of space and a specific number of belongings and need to make a series of fast decisions. As a result, following your plan and sticking with it to the end creates a sense of accomplishment and confidence.

Decluttering Increases Your Energy

Junk can make you tired. Princeton University recently did a study that indicated cluttered homes interfere with sleep because it takes a lot of mental energy to deal with a messy environment. It is difficult to process information and focus in the midst of clutter. Simply navigating the home and taking care of your basic needs takes extra time and work. Once your home is organised and neat, you will feel revitalised. Per Psychology Today, the process of making fast decisions while decluttering will also boost your mental energy.

Clearing Junk Helps Reduce Stress

The results of a recent UCLA study showed that women living in homes containing a “high density of household objects” produced more of the stress hormone cortisol. A Good Housekeeping article also pointed out that clutter can stress both sexes, but women tend to be impacted more because they associate messiness with failure. You will also feel anxious because wading through piles of things to get out the door constantly makes you late. You might be embarrassed to have guests and are likely to be irritated all the time because you constantly lose things. Simply sorting and tossing out unnecessary things can make all the difference.

Getting Rid of Clutter Can Ease Family Tensions

A messy home often leads to family squabbles. When it is hard to find anything, family members often argue about who had the items last and then blame one another for their loss. Disorganised, messy homes make it hard to stay on schedule, which can jeopardise jobs and cause kids to be late for school. Getting rid of your junk not only creates a more serene, welcoming environment, but also allows you to create a place for everything.

Sorting and eliminating clutter can give you more energy, reduce anxiety, and prevent a lot of family tension. The process of clearing, cleaning, and organising the home will boost your confidence. Removing large amounts of junk can also eliminate expenses caused by disorganisation.


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REAL ESTATE

6 Tips for First-Time Home Buyers

6-tips-for-first-time-home-buyers

Purchasing a home for the first time is a monumental moment in a person’s life. Saving up for years to be able to put a down payment on a house and finally moving in is a rewarding feeling, which is why so many people are opting to buy instead of rent these days. 


Purchasing your first home, however, can quickly become overwhelming if you don’t know what you’re doing. There are a lot of important details that go into buying a house, and it can be easy to end up in a property you don’t absolutely love if you’re not careful. If you’re thinking about purchasing your first home, here are 6 tips to make the process go smoothly. 

Determine what you can afford 

Figuring out what you can afford should be the first step you take when it comes to purchasing a home. A quick Google search for “what price home can I afford?” can help you determine this number, but it is also important that you create a budget that breaks down your debt-to-income ratio as well. Think of how much money you’re making each month, and factor in your monthly expenses. This can be car payments, utilities, groceries, and should also include your mortgage payment. Creating a detailed budget will help you see the bigger picture, and you’ll be able to house-hunt with a clearer idea of what you can afford. 

Start saving well in advance 

While putting 20% of the home’s worth down is the standard for many first-time home buyers, many lenders have started allowing borrowers to put down much less. Regardless of how much money you decide to put down on your home, it is important that you start saving well in advance to ensure you have a sum of money you are comfortable with. Putting $20,000 down on a home that costs $100,000 can make a huge difference when it comes to how long it takes you to pay off your mortgage, so remember to keep this in mind when saving up for a house. 

Research the neighborhood beforehand 

You could absolutely love a particular house, but a bad or dangerous neighborhood can quickly turn your dream home into a nightmare. Because of this, it is crucial that you check out the neighborhood you’re thinking about living in before purchasing a home there. To get the best idea of the area, make sure to visit the neighborhood during different times of day, especially in the morning and at night. You should also take note of if the home you’re interested in is in a flood zone or any other details that can make your living situation less than desirable. 

Attend open houses 

When searching for a home, attending as many open houses as possible can help you land the home of your dreams! Open houses allow you to tour a property without the pressure of a one-on-one showing, and you will be able to roam the house freely and check out every nook and cranny. If you do wish to schedule a private follow-up showing, don’t hesitate to reach out to the listing agent and be prepared to ask any and all questions you may have. 

Consider your future plans 

One mistake many first-time home buyers make is not planning for the future. For example, while you may not currently have children, you could end up changing your mind down the road, so buying a home with only one bedroom can pose a problem eventually. This goes for other possible life changes, such as an elderly relative coming to live with you or a future pet. When shopping for a home, it is important to remember that your plans may very well change at some point, so be sure to consider any possible life changes and what that could mean for your living situation. 

Choose the right homeowners insurance 

When you’ve finally settled on a house you love, your mortgage lender will ask you to purchase homeowners insurance. If you’ve never had to do this before, it can be difficult to know what to look for. When purchasing homeowners insurance, don’t be afraid to shop around and compare different rates until you find a price that works best for you and your budget. Typically, the more expensive a homeowner’s insurance policy is, the better protection it offers, so keep that in mind when deciding on one to go with.


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BATHROOMS, HOME STAGING, REAL ESTATE

Calculating in Advance: 7 Factors That Have an Impact on Your Bathroom Remodeling Costs

calculating-in-advance-7-factors-that-have-an-impact-on-your-bathroom-remodeling-costs

Remodelling bathrooms and kitchens usually add to the value of a home. But, before you decide to go all-out on a bathroom remodel, take time to investigate where your investment dollars should go. Bathroom renovations are expensive for several reasons and if you put your money in the wrong places, you could actually lose out when you decide to sell your home. 

Take time to calculate in advance so you have the impact you want on your bathroom remodelling expenses. These seven factors can affect the budget and design of your bathroom remodel. 

1. Plumbing

This can be an incredibly expensive part of any bathroom remodel, especially if you plan to move fixtures. To keep the costs low, keep the footprint of your bathroom the same. Otherwise, you might need to have more than plumbing work was done as contractors might have to install new pipes and move electrical components. 

2. Electrical

Like plumbing, if anything needs to be moved, you will have to pay for it. However, if you simply replace light fixtures and switch plates, electrical costs should stay affordable. If your electrical needs simply involve replacing fixtures, you might be able to do that work yourself – just don’t forget to shut down electricity at the panel. 

3. Finishes

Finishes can also increase your bathroom remodel or they can keep everything affordable. These include items like backsplash tile, countertops, faucets, and other items that bring style to the room. Countertops, especially solid surface or natural stone, are not cheap. Some tiles are extremely expensive. When it comes to finishes, the best ones are the classic ones that stand up over time. 

4. Flooring

Baths do not usually have the excessive square footage to fill, but some of the options can make it seem like you’re filling a massive space. There are plenty of choices for flooring and ways to increase costs. If you are looking for budget-friendly choices, there are several options available, like ceramic tile and attractive vinyl.

5. Amenities

Amenities are what turn a basic bath into a home spa. Items like jet tubs, towel warmers, heat lamps, and heated floors can add up quickly. No bath needs amenities, but they are sure are nice if you can afford them.

6. Cabinets

Cabinets, like floors, come in several price points. Pre-made cabinets are the least expensive, but they may not be what you want. The big-box cabinets might not withstand the moisture in a bathroom and you might have to replace them quicker than expected. Consider the materials the cabinets are made of before you make your choice, especially knowing that the cabinets will get a serious amount of use in a tough environment. 

7. Fixtures

Fixtures might not seem like they can break the budget, but they sure can add to the costs. If you are going to splurge on any fixtures, you can probably get the most out of your tub and shower fixtures. And, if you put a luxurious shower head in your bath, you will certainly consider the splurge as money well spent. 

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BEAUTY + STYLE, HOME DECOR, TRENDS

Obsessed with Olive

obsessed-with-olive

Olive green is a favourite of mine. I love the ease of this tone and I especially love how versatile it is – for the home or for fashion! It works as a solid or in a pattern and I love how it pairs with all neutrals but also colours!

Olive green + fashion

Typically when it comes to fashion, I am drawn to all shades of black and of course grey! But this season – I’m really loving the softer neutrals like olive. Plus olive and black are such a sophisticated combination. I also love olive paired with denim, navy blue, charcoal (any grey tone really), cream and blush pink. You can’t go wrong with a great army inspired jacket or cargo pants for a casual look but pair this hue with work wear and it’s so flattering.

My Top 9 Olive Obsessions…

Fedora – Hats are huge this fall season and I love them paired with denim, a poncho or blanket scarf! Olive is a very flattering colour for all hair colours, too!

‘Olive you’ mug – This is just cute! A sweet gift for a boyfriend, husband or child.

‘Save the date’ cards – I love the simplicity of these cards and the symbolism of the olive branch is a beautiful message.

Accent pillow – this pillow has a great linen texture and I love this colour. It is so universal – for a bedroom or living room – these add a soft texture and tone.

Slouch top – I love the gold button accent and the slouchy neckline. It’s stunning with hoops and skinny jeans. Perfect for a casual date night!

Tartan throw blanket – The fringe detail with paired with the tartan pattern gives this throw a fall feel. This is perfect for cozy fall nights on a sofa or accent chair.

Cargo pants – this is weekend wear at it’s best! I love the tone but the softness of this fabric makes these pants perfect for weekends when you don’t want jeans or leggings. Paired with a t-shirt and denim jacket with a cross body purse and some slide on sneakers or some low heel booties and a sweater – these are a classic in casual style.

Faux Olive Tree – I know not everyone is a fan of faux plants but not everyone has a green thumb or the environment to keep plants alive! There are many life-like greenery options and this is one of them! I’m a big fan of the fiddle leaf fig but this olive tree adds a softer tone to a space. My sister has one in her living room and it looks incredible!

Area rug – I love the olive option as a softer alternative to grey. Olive has that warmth that grey doesn’t always offer – it’s a great neutral and alternative to dated warm beige. This rug has a classic pattern and a mix of neutrals so it works with everything!

These are my favourite pieces in this sophisticated hue. What do you think of olive green?

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