BATHROOMS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to make a kids’ bathroom kid friendly but not too childish

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“We are a family of 5.  My 3 kids share a bathroom in our new home – which is great! I would love some ideas to make the bathroom ‘kid friendly’ and fun but still stylish since it is also used for out of town guests. We have a great palette to work with – it’s all white!”

What a find! A home with a full bathroom just for the kids, that can really make life easier!  Being able to make their bathroom ‘kid friendly’ will be fun  and easy – they will love it, too!

Since your bathroom is all white, your options are endless.  Because this bathroom is also going to be used for other guests – we highly recommend sticking with some neutral tones that will work well for all ages. So even if you were going to do a bathroom renovation, we would still suggest staying in a neutral colour palette (paint is easy enough to update but tiles and counter tops are more involved and costly). If the all white palette, is just too much white, we love the look and feel of a fresh bathroom so if you are open and considering paint – opt for soft grey tones or perhaps even light blue. To add the fun and kid friendly touches – accessories are the best way to go!  Easy updates that are affordable and not permanent!

Accessories can really add to a basic bathroom – bath mats, shower curtains, towels, art are all great ways to add some colour, texture and pattern to the space.

For the decor, you may want to choose a theme for the bathroom.  A theme will give you some direction when it comes to putting it all together.  Does it all have to match? No. But it is a great guideline for when you are shopping. A nautical or beach theme are both popular ones because they do translate well with kids and adults, plus they are calming and soothing.  You don’t need to go over board with a theme just a few touches can set the scene. See the image below for some inspiration on how to go light with a theme. The colour palette is soft and light.  The art and the oar towel hooks are a unique nod to the theme, it’s cute for kids but suitable for adults sharing the space, too.

When it comes to kids’ bathrooms you need to make it accessible and organized with them in mind.
For instance, hanging towels on a hook is much easier for them.  Hang your hooks at a height that they can reach.

We love this paddle with hooks paired with simple nautical themed art.

Towels are another great way to add some colour and/or pattern to the bathroom.  For a little extra fun and organization, we love monogrammed or personalized towels like these ones from Pottery Barn Kids

A shower curtain is another great way to make a colourful ‘splash’ in the bathroom – print, texture and colour. We love to select a common thread in terms of colour in the towels and the shower curtain. Kids LOVE colour but it can get crazy, if you let them! So we suggest a great basic palette like this one with navy blue and white and then add yellow, orange, green or red to this classic colour combo, with towels, soap dispenser etc….Again, a great balance for everyone using this space.

Art in a bathroom really adds visual interest and really completes the room.  There are some great pieces for kids.  Some of our favourites are so simple and smart since they encourage daily hygiene and bathroom chores


These Superhero Bathroom Rules available on Etsy

Wall Decals are also a great addition to your bathroom walls.  Again we love the idea of ‘Bathroom Rules’,a great reminder for kids.

Organization is so important.  So labeled jars, bins, baskets etc…are a great way to keep the kids organized. Be sure to keep the routine simple and consistent.

These floating shelves are a great idea if you are low on counter space. Having them personalized with every day items is a great idea

If you do have more counter top space, try small baskets or even mason jars.

 

Other accessories can really add the fun in a bathroom – soap dispensers, shower curtain hooks, hand towels, Kleenex box, trash can and more.  There are many sets in many different themes,perfect for kids!

 

The best advice when it comes to adding decor to a bathroom that is shared with adults and kids – is to not go overboard.  So if you have a kids’ theme shower curtain maybe go neutral with most of the towels (the hand towels can be a bit punchy since they are small) or if you want the shower curtain and towels more basic then have fun with the art and accessories (like these Monster ones seen above).  When every element of the bathroom is a kid piece or theme, that’s when it is no longer adult friendly.

But have fun – the bathroom is a perfect space to get whimsical and creative!

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HOME STAGING

Staging (and Selling) For a Younger Buyer

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Home staging is all about prepping the home for the next buyer and not decorating it to suit your taste and style. When you put your home on the market to sell, you should know that the next owner will likely be younger than you are. That’s why you should stop thinking about what you like or want in a home and start thinking about what your most likely buyer will want.

It’s important to keep the home looking current but not trendy

1. Wall paint

Yes, stick with warm neutral tones but pick a current neutral.  If your target demographic is “young professional” or “young family,” try using a warm gray as a neutral wall color. The gold or pinky-beige wall color you chose 10 -15 years ago is going to seem outdated to this new group of home buyers. On-trend neutrals like grays allow potential homeowners to envision bringing in complementary colors and clean-lined furnishings to make it their own.

2. Invest in white cabinetry.

Many home buyers younger than 40 prefer white or off-white kitchen cabinetry. They don’t want to see dark kitchen cabinetry in their new home. Consider a kitchen facelift if you have dark kitchen cabinetry with orange or red undertones. White kitchens make spaces look and feel larger – everyone wants a large kitchen!

 3. Update your appliances

Many younger home buyers cannot fathom buying a home without stainless steel appliances. You’ll need to update your almond ones with stainless replacements before putting it on the market. Trying selling your old ones online…

4. Look for simple stone countertops

Granite and stone countertops are a must-have for most young home buyers — it will make the difference between whether they choose your home or your neighbor’s home. But don’t make the mistake of installing busy or taste-specific granite that may not appeal to everyone. If you plan to be in your home for a long time, go for it — but not if you plan to sell within the next few years. Find something that works with the warm grey walls and the white cabinets.

5. Keep it simple for families with children

People with young kids are less likely to want a fixer-upper. If your target demographic is “young family with small children,” it’s important that your property be ready for them to move right in. Make sure the home has no unfinished projects or red flags for young families. For families focus on ‘setting the scene’ in rooms that will be used – kitchens and bathrooms are obvious staging areas but look at laundry and mudrooms, too. Show how usable the space is.

6. Open up your shower space

Young professionals love large, open glass showers. The garden-variety tub isn’t where it’s at anymore. If you are focusing on selling to a young family be sure to have one bathroom with a tub.

 7. Consider selling your house as a fixer-upper

If your neighborhood is becoming a mecca for young professionals, there may be some appeal to the fixer-upper if the price is right. These younger adults without children may have the time, energy and imagination for making over an older home. Even so, the price will have to be lower than if it were picture perfect.

We hope these home staging tips help you get that home sold!

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BEDROOMS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – 5 Headboards for the Bedroom

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“I am in the process of decorating my bedroom. I don’t currently have a headboard but it’s something I’ve been looking for. I just can’t decide what style I like. What are my options?”

 

Great question! A head board is often a focal point in the bedroom, so we understand wanting to choose the perfect style for your space! Choosing “staple” pieces for your home can be a daunting task, there is so much to choose from and so many to love! Believe me, we get that.

 

The most important thing is that your new headboard suits your space. Of course mixing styles is a fabulous idea and one we definitely recommend. While it may be a contrasting style, it has to flow and be harmonious. Having a random item that doesn’t seem to go with anything else will stand out like a sore thumb. If you are starting from scratch, you have tons of choices!

 

If you have existing décor in the space, our challenge now is to make your space beautiful and cohesive. Headboards come in all shapes, sizes, colours, textures, materials and with varying detail work. Narrow down what you like.Do you like button tufting? Great! We have a jumping off point. Are you into reclaimed wood? Fabulous!  What tone and texture will complement your room?

 

Having a certain décor style that you like will help with this process. If your home has country flair or if it’s contemporary, try to stay true to those styles.

 

Here are some suggestions for headboard styles.

Leather:

this is a classic choice and will go with most décor styles. Depending on the colour you chose and the detail work, certain aspects will sway a leather headboard. A white leather headboard is typically a very modern look. Black or Brown leather is a more masculine fabric. A leather headboard is a safe option for a space.

 

Nail Head:

 

This is a very nice touch to add to a room. A more contemporary/traditional option but can work with a more rustic décor when mixed with the right pieces. A nail head detail is a beautiful option, the nail heads can be brass, chrome, brushed nickel or gold.

 

Choose something that will go with the existing hardware in your room (maybe dresser pulls or door knobs?). BUT you don’t have to. We are also big fans of mixing metals. Nail head detail works on both fabric and leather.

 
 

Button Tufting:

 

Button tufting is similar to a nail head detail in the sense that is versatile. This is a great option with a traditional or country room. The detail is a bit fussier than a nail head but still a great choice! Play with colour when choosing this style! Button tufting is great on leather and fabric as well.

 

 

Fabric:

 

The material options are extensive. So are the colour and pattern options. Depending on your style, fabric is a fabulous way to incorporate a unique element into your room and for the savvy DIY-er, also relatively easy to upholster an existing headboard and customize it with your own fabric and details.

 

 

Wood:

 

Wood is a fabulous option for a country or rustic/industrial style home. What’s most interesting about this is how authentic and natural it looks. There are so many stains, washes, textures etc. with wood so you can be super creative. The various tones available are too many to count and having a natural element in your space is a great way to bring the outdoors in!

 

Play with colour! Play with height! Play with shapes! There are SO many choices, do some research and see what speaks to you. Then go from there! Recognize what your style is and then build off of that. Be creative!

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS

How To Update My Dining room

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“I know my dining room is in need of an update.  I do have a beautiful wood table with matching chairs that my husband would just die if I threw out or painted!!  Any ideas how I could update my dining room and include my furniture?”

A great question for a common dilemma.  Many down sizers go through this exact same issue.  What to keep, what to toss, what to donate….you want a current look in your space but your existing pieces were expensive, high quality, in good condition – what to do?

Well, you do have a number of options that won’t involve altering your wood furniture.

An all wood furniture set can make a room feel dark and heavy especially if you do not have much light in the room.  So how about brightening up the space with colour and light? Try updating your chandelier for a more current look and more light.  A great, versatile option is a lantern style – it works with traditional furniture and farmhouse styles but it can also transtion well with other styles too.

 

 

You can also add light with table lamps on your buffet piece.  Look for shades that will allow light through – white, cream or beige are best.  We also like these table lamps that have a traditional vase shape but in glass so they don’t add bulk.

 

If you have a china cabinet that you don’t want to part with or separate – try wall sconces for additional light.  They won’t add an abundance of light but they will help with mood lighting for dinner parties. This images shows off sconces with multiple heads flanking the china cabinet.

 

 

Mirrors are also great because they allow light to bounce around the room making the room feel brighter and larger.  Mirrored furniture or accessories like decorative bowls, frames or vases can add some brightness to the room too. This image shows how the combination of mirrors and glass make a bulky piece look lighter.

 

 

Try switching up your wall paint.  The colour on the walls could also make the room feel dark and heavy.
Wood furniture has a weight to it already so if it is in a smaller room without much light, the room will look dark so try lighter tones on the wall for a fresh update. Soft creams, beiges and greys are timeless and won’t take away from your furniture or art.

 

 

If that isn’t adventurous enough for you – you can certainly add colour on the walls just be sure to balance it out with some other lighter items.  This dining room is a mix of classic traditional and contemporary elements.  The dark wood furniture and floors and the navy wall paint together would normally be too dark but paired with the light beige upholstery and textiles, white trim and wainscoting, lighting and the decorative plate wall – there is the right amount of balance in this dramatic dining room.

 

 

Many wood furniture sets are lacking in ‘punch’ meaning they are very tone on tone.  Lots of browns in the stains but often in the upholstery.  Why not re-upholster your chairs for a fresh look? The possibilities are endless and it makes a huge impact without even touching the wood!  We have done this with a number of clients and they love the look and the price point.  It is way more cost effective and your set will look new!

 

You can opt for something neutral with a subtle pattern for some visual interest.

 

 

You can stay pretty neutral but then go bolder with captain’s chairs

 

 

Or make a statement with colour and pattern.

 

 

If you are really looking to make a big leap outside of the box, try some new chairs all together and opt for something modern to really update your space. This farmhouse dining room looks updated with these Eiffel dining chairs in cream – they fit with the colour scheme but they are totally unexpected.  By adding modern chairs to a traditional table you get a more casual feel.

 

 

Other updates…..

Try adding some bold art – something big, bold and graphic really updates any space plus it is an easy addition. Look at arranging your current art collection in a modern gallery style.

 

 

Try an accent wall with wall paper.  Another way to add visual interest to the room using pattern.  We used to see rooms with wall to wall wallpaper and that can be overwhelming and even stuffy but just one wall is fabulous.  We also love to see another statement piece like art, photography or a mirror hung on that accent wall.

 

 

Try a bold area rug.  Make a statement on your floor with a bold area rug – it’s like art on the floor.  This image shows how the area rug can be the centerpiece of a room – the colour scheme revolves around this rug.  A classic colour combo but a big statement.

 

 

What ever you do make a plan.  For instance if you decide you want to paint, re-upholster and add a new light fixture be sure those elements work cohesively that way the whole room update will look spectacular!

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HOME STYLING, TRENDS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – 9 Gallery Wall Ideas

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

1. Taxidermy Heads

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

2. Mirrors

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

 

3. Letters

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

4. Plates

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

 

5. Decorative Frames

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

 

6. Wreath

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

 

7. Clocks

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

 

 

8. Art

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

 

9. Wall Decals

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

 

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

 

 

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

 

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HOME STAGING

10 Secrets About Staging Your Home For Resale

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Realistic or not…every home buyers dreams of purchasing a home that belongs in the pages of a magazine.  Staging your home or making it look it’s best, is one of the first steps to putting it on the market.  Since many eyes will be on your home during showings, open houses and all through marketing and promotional materials, this is why you will want your home to look show room ready!  Many sellers feel that doing aesthetic work in preparation to sell their home isn’t necessary and that the buyers themselves will want to make those changes themselves and to their taste – but to sell a home for top dollar in any market you must set yourself apart from the others.

1 – The Exterior Aka Curb appeal –

This is where you will make your first impression.  If the outside is unappealing that sends a strong message to buyers and they may decide to move on without even entering.  Create a lasting impression by maintaining the flower beds and lawn, sweeping the walkway and porch, power wash the siding and freshen up the door and shutters with paint.  Take a look at accessories like the door mat – is it tired looking? mailbox – is it rusted? door bell? – is it working? number plate? – is it visible, clean?

2 – Depersonalize –

Staging your home for sale is very different from decorating your ‘new’ home.  when you move in to your space you want to put your personal stamp on things, set up your furniture for your lifestyle and make it yours!  When staging your home you want to attract the most buyers using neutral tones and furniture placement that shows off flow and the size of the room – highlighting the best attributes if the home.  Keep your style and tastes to a minimum since many buyers with many different tastes will be viewing your space.

3 – Don’t leave the walls bare –

Yes, you want to depersonalize but don’t completely neuter your home and remove all warmth and signs of life.  Removing personal items like family photos, collections and religious symbols is very important but decor items like art, mirrors and clocks add some warmth to the space and can pull a room together.

 

4 – Create furniture groupings –

Sometimes when sellers want to make a room look and feel spacious they spread out the furniture creating a big open space in the middle.  This arrangement does leave a big, open space but it looks unfinished – which is a big turn off for buyers.  It’s best to create furniture groupings to help buyers envision how to use the space – for conversation, TV watching, reading and more….Be sure to not only have furniture positioned in ways that would make sense for intended use but also be sure to have clear and direct paths through the room – this will give a room a spacious look and feel.  You want buyers to envision the use of the space, how to live in the home and of course, highlight the size of the room but still keeping it cozy for conversation.

5 – Use paint to maximize the space –

The right paint colour can perform miracles.  The right paint colour can make a room appear larger.  We often recommend a fresh coat of paint throughout the home in a light tone but if you don’t want to pain the whole home – paint the space that you need to enlarge the same colour as the room that is adjacent to it.  The matching colours will help the potential buyer’s eyes flow seamlessly from one room into the next and make both rooms seem like one big space.  Bold colours do make a statement but they tend to make rooms feel smaller and more closed off, plus that also a personal statement and taste.

 

6 – Add extra lighting –

Lighting can make all of the difference between a good viewing and a bad one.  You want to make sure that buyers actually see the aspects and features of the home.  Natural light is a plus, so pull back the drapes, remove heavy curtains all together and bring up the blinds.  For artificial lighting, you need to have enough to make your home feel cozy during evening showings.  Add some floor lamps in dark corners, routinely check light bulbs, add high wattage bulbs or day light bulbs to existing fixtures.

7 – Clearly define every space –

Most of us have a room or space that is a catch-all and it serves many purposes but when it comes to selling your home – that space never translates well to buyers.  That catch-all room becomes a confusing space. Present that space as ‘something’ a guest room, a desk, craft room, study, ply room – it doesn’t really matter  but define what that space is.  Clear it out, remove the junk and set it up as a proper, usable space.

8- Assume every space will be viewed –

Sellers like to think that buyers will just look at the main areas of the home during a viewing.  In reality, buyers will look everywhere (especially if it is a 2nd or 3rd showing). So spend some time organizing cupboards, closets and other storage spaces.  Yes, you are living there but you can keep it neat and organized.  Start with a declutter – go through your clothes and linens (no sense in bring items you don’t need or want into your next home), donate or toss what you no longer need, pre-pack the extras that you want to keep and fold up the towels and bedsheets in the current linen closet – making a beautiful and organized closet.  Same for other storage spaces. A closet that is bursting at the seams sends the signal that there isn’t enough storage space.

9 – Organize personal items with storage pieces –

If you are still living in the home that you are selling you will still have some personal pieces like toys, mail, pet items and toiletries.  The best way to keep the home staged while you live there is to have some easy storage solutions.  Baskets are great for toys, a chest or trunk at the edge of a bed, baskets or boxes in bookcases are perfect for flyers, mail and school items.  For bigger items, like furniture try renting a POD or Storage unit.

10 – Fresh touches impress buyers –

Some fresh details make an impression on buyers like fresh flowers (perfect for open houses), fresh fruit in a bowl on an island is a great pop of colour and sets a friendly tone, plush towels in the bathrooms look clean and luxurious are just a few easy examples.  These quick fixes can really make a world of difference in how your property is viewed by buyers.

 

Buyers want that emotional connection once they walk into a home, that feeling is so important and home staging makes that connection with buyers – it’s a necessary step in the process of selling your home,

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WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Easy Ideas for Additional Seating

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“My boyfriend and I live in a small home.  We love our home but we know it isn’t massive.  We love to have friends and family over for movie and game night but we never seem to have enough space on the sofa.  How can we have extra seating in our small space?”

 

Entertaining in a small space can feel a bit cramped but if you think double-duty pieces you should be able to get a lot of mileage out of your furniture.

 

In a small space, you really want to maximize as much as you can.  so we always suggest the largest sofa that will fit in the space.  You will get a lot of comfy seating for guests but for yourselves, too.

 

So now that you have a big, comfy (yet stylish) sofa.  You can start adding some occasional or accent chairs/seating.

1.  A slim accent chair. 

You have a lot of choice when it comes to selecting an accent chairs.  You could purchase an additional chair for your dining set or you could just use one from your dining set (this is a great if you are really tight on space).  The different styles for dining chairs are endless.  So You can easily find something that will work in your space.

Some of our favourite chairs are ghost chairs.  They have a bit of a traditional look but with material gives it a modern twist. These are also amazing in a dining room with a wood table.

And when it comes to decorating smaller spaces we always recommend that you keep the same style throughout say industrial instead of changing styles from room to room – that will make the space look and feel choppy.

 

2.   A slipper chair. 

Another great option.  A slipper chair is armless so it isn’t bulky.  It has a leaner look but still comfortable.  This style of chair comes is many finishes – we love a patterned slipper chair!  It can make such an impact.

 

 

3.  Stools. 

Stools are maybe not the best for lounging on a movie night but we love them because they are great for a casual gathering like a cocktail party.  They don’t take up a lot of room and they can easily be moved around.  Plus they can also be used as a foot stool when needed.

 

 

We love the look (and ease) of these African inspired wood stools.  They are a comfortable seat, visually they don’t add bulkiness and the style works in this space.

 

 

If your style is a bit more glam or traditional we love these T-frame stools that are positioned in front of the fireplace.  We have used this style of stool for both home staging and with our interior decorating clients.  They are another easy seating piece and you can really get playful with colour and pattern.

4. Poofs. 

We love poofs.  Again easy seating, great look and ‘portable’.  They come in so many styles too.  Another great way to add colour and texture to your space.

 

We love how they can also be tucked under a console or coffee table.  This image is a great example of styling a small space – the light colour palette, the glass coffee table and these leather poofs.  Extra seating or footstools and so chic!

 

This style of poof is a little more relaxed and casual but still cool and comfortable.  Position them where ever you like.  these are also great if you have children or ever have children visiting – they will love them!  Some poofs in this style even have removable covers – so easy to wash!

5.  Small ottomans. 

Another favourite of ours. These are a little more structured than the casual/relaxed poofs but the same fashion and function and variety, too!  We love them in pairs!

 

There are so many seating alternatives, we personally love ones that are easily moved around…you never know when people will just pop by…

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HOME STAGING

5 Easy Things To Do Before Showing Your Home

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It is selling season and if you are selling your home you know how busy this time of year is!  Lost of Showings, Previews and Open Houses – exposure is key when selling your home!  But a last minute showing can be tricky!  Of course, you want your home to be seen but at the same time your home may not be up to par!  What do to?

During the week, we suggest a cleaning routine :including vacuuming as often as you can (at least the highest traffic areas, like a family room for instance), putting away clothes after each wearing (either in a hamper or back in the closet or dresser) to keep clutter under control, picking up toys and books before bed time (get the kids involved – they tidy up at school so why not at home?), wash dishes daily (if you have a chaotic schedule maybe use disposable paper plates in the short term) and wiping down surfaces like counter tops (kitchen and bath) and table tops.

To make the very best impression for buyers, try these 5 easy things.  They can be done in around 15-20 minutes, so even the very last minute showing can be a huge success!

1.  Keep the house clean.

I know easier said than done but if you tackle a bit of cleaning everyday, the house will never really get messy.  Be sure to always have the sinks and appliances clean – those two items really make an impact on buyers and it sets the tone for the rest of the house.  Stainless steel appliances? Be sure to use the right cleaners to remove finger prints and smudges. Cleaning these items alone really shouldn’t take more than 3 minutes!

2.  Sweep the kitchen floor (and eat-in area).

Will buyers be focusing on your floor? Maybe – Maybe not….but if they step in food or sticky residue from spilled apple juice, they will notice it and it will make a bad impression. It takes minutes to do and it make the kitchen (a buyer hot spot) look and feel so much better.  A quick sweep and spot mop should take 3-5 minutes.

3.  Empty all trashes.

Over flowing trash is just gross and it can smell.  It take minutes to empty the cans.  Get the kids involved, send them each to a trash can and have them meet you in the garage to dump and put them back.  Again it feels clean and looks so much better.  This should take roughly 5-7 minutes.

4.  Make it smell good.

Removing the garbage and regular cleaning certainly help to keep the house smelling clean.  Try to keep from cooking (right before a showing) fish, grease, burnt anything can be tough to get rid of, especially in a hurry.  You can use plug-ins but opt for natural scents as florals can be overwhelming but try opening the windows – nothing beats the smell of fresh air!  Another product that we love are scented flameless candles – they are battery operated, they look great and smell fantastic but DO NOT leave real lit candles in the home unattended. This should take a minute or two.

5.  Remove all clutter from counters and floors

Clutter is a huge distraction.  We tell our home staging clients that clutter sends a signal that the house is lacking in storage – no buyer will say “oh, they just have too much”, the buyer will say “there isn’t enough storage here”.  Storage is an important factor for buyers. Be sure to pay special attention the the kitchen counters. 

Keep extra baskets handy for toys, books, clothes and any other items that are on the floor.  Have a basket in each bedroom for a quick clean and pick up (be sure the basket can be tucked away in a closet). Depends on how much you have to do, 5 – ? minutes.

A few extra minutes or want to add another touch Leave out some cookies or small chocolates, bottled water for a welcome touch.  It will make a memorable impression …..

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HOME STYLING

How To Create A Welcoming Entry

how-to-create-welcoming-entry

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

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

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

1.  A Runner or area rug. 

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

2.  A Console Table 

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

3.  A Shiny Dish 

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

4.  A Mirror. 

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

5.  Baskets for Storage. 

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

6.  Entry Bench 

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

7. Coat rack. 

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

8. Chic Chandelier. 

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

9.  Art. 

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

How To Pick The Right Paint Colour

how-to-pick-right-paint-colour

So you’ve decided to paint!  That’s the easy part.  Picking the right paint colour is the next step and there’s a lot to consider.  Sure, you could walk into a store, grab a paint chip you like, buy the paint and go home but….you will likely end up with a colour that just doesn’t work in your space.

 

So….if you are looking to paint – ask yourself these 10 questions BEFORE committing to a colour.

 

1.  Where am I in the decorating process?

If you are totally starting from scratch – so no floors, furniture, tiles etc…then you do have a lot of options.  Have a colour in mind, say grey tones, when it comes to make those selections and bring the paint fan with you so you can find a colour that works with everything. But if you have fixtures in place – flooring, sofa, other furniture, window dressings, wall paper etc… you will need to work with those items (unless you are doing a total room over haul).  So once the items you want to keep are in place start fanning through different colour options.

 

2.  How do I know if it is a colour I love?

In order to know for sure if you are going to absolutely love a paint colour – you do need to see it on the walls.  When it comes to narrowing down your choice – trust your gut!  Don’t let others tell you what to do – an opinion is fine as long as they have you and your taste in mind.  If you like deep colour or bold colour – go for it, it’s only paint!

 

3.  Am I rushing into this?

Take a breathe and take your time selecting your colour or colours.  Sit in your space and think about the mood you want and how you want it to feel for yourself and others.  Then look toward colours that support that mood. Take the time to test colours and look at them day and night.

 

4.  Have I looked at paint chips?

Going to a decorating store or a hardware store and seeing the walls of paint chips can be very intimidating – there is so much to look at.  Trying leafing through magazines before going to look at chips, and look at decorated rooms – that would help you focus on not only a decor style but a colour palette, too.  That way you have some direction and can easily weed out what you don’t want.

 

5.  Have I tried any samples?

Still uncertain? but narrowed down to a few options? Don’t rely on just the chip – get yourself some samples.  Buy a quart or pint of paint and paint swatches on your walls – don’t worry they will cover up when you actually start painting.

 

6.  Have I looked at the sample more than once?

Now that you have painted a few swatches on your walls.  Keep the swatches up for a few days before totally committing.  For some, this new paint (especially if it is very different from the old paint) can take a while for the shock to wear down. Be sure to look at the swatches throughout the day as the light changes, the colour may
appear different, too.  Make sure you like the colour day and night.

 

7.    What other colours am I using?

Likely your paint colour won’t be the only colour in the room.  Be sure that the wall paint colour will work harmoniously with the other colours in the room such as flooring, furniture, and textiles, even wallpaper.

 

8.  Have I considered the room?

Before you choose the paint colour, pay attention to the room.  How much light does it have? In south facing rooms, colours run very true.  North facing rooms tend to be darker so the colours will look different.  And, in east facing rooms, the colour looks a little blue. Do you have high ceilings? With high ceilings you can get away with going bolder and deeper than with standard ceiling height.

9.  What’s my sheen of choice?

So the sheen is very important – it affects how the light is either absorbed or reflected by the wall colour.  Higher sheen like a semi gloss or gloss will reflect more light from the surface so the colour will be deep and rich.  A flat or eggshell will absorb light creating a dryer looking colour.  If your walls aren’t perfect, opt for a flat finish to disguise the imperfections.

10.  Am I too hesitant?

Painting a room should take about a weekend of your time.  Compared to other projects it’s straightforward and cost effective.  Plus it makes a huge impact and when you tire of the colour – it’s an easy update!

We love what paint can do for a space … be sure to use your colour preferences as a guide and pick your colour based on the space itself …

 

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