we-answer-wednesday-pendant-predicamen

“What size and how many pendants should I hang over my kitchen island?”

The ideal number of lights depends on the style and scale of fixtures you choose, and how hardworking your island is. 

Here’s a guide to help you decide which solution is best for your kitchen.

One Large Pendant

Make a modern move by centering one over sized fixture above the island.  A large pendant with a translucent shade can offer both ambient and task lighting. This works very well if your kitchen island is also your dining space, which is something we have seen in recent years in condos.  This light fixture would act as your island lighting and dining fixture

 Two Medium Pendants

Hang a pair of lights evenly spaced over the island to illuminate the work space.  These lantern style pendants add great light to the whole space and have a timeless look that work with the kitchen.  This is a more current look that we are seeing a lot of in single family homes with large kitchens but also in smaller condo or apartment size kitchens.  It’s a clean balanced look and works with any style of decor.

 

Three Small Pendants

A trip of shapely lights will work together to brighten three different areas along the island.  Clear glass fixtures are visually light and mix well with the other style sin the home.  This is probably the most common kitchen island pendant arrangement, light the 2 medium pendant arrangement it works with all styles of decor.

 Other important points with kitchen island lighting…

1. Size and Scale.

One thing to really, really take into consideration is scale and proportion of lighting to island. Over sized lighting has been very on trend for the past few years but it is possible to be too big, so watch out!  Not sure what to do, start with the size of your island, we are seeing over sized (and super handy) kitchen island in homes of all sizes. For example, we had a client would installed a 10 ft island so we were able to install 3 medium sized pendants (equally spaced) and it looks perfect.

2. Mood lighting.

As with any lighting fixture, think about putting these pendants on a dimmer switch.  It is a really nice effect when you are entertaining and using the island for serving drinks and appetizers it really creates a warm and cozy vibe

3. Right height. 

The bottom rims of your pendant lights should hang about 30 inches above the surface of your kitchen island counter. An alternate way to determine the proper height is to measure from the floor upward. With this method, the bottom rims of the lighting fixtures should be positioned 60 to 66 inches above the floor. If the ceilings in your kitchen are higher than 8 feet, light from the fixtures will be dispersed more evenly if you increase the height of the pendant lights 3 inches for every extra foot of ceiling height. In addition, if you have tall family members, it’s a good idea to raise the lights a couple of extra inches to allow more head room.

 

Ideally, the bottom
rims of your pendant lights should hang about 30 inches above the
surface of your kitchen island counter. An alternate way to determine
the proper height is to measure from the floor upward. With this method,
the bottom rims of the lighting fixtures should be positioned 60 to 66
inches above the floor. If the ceilings in your kitchen are higher than 8
feet, light from the fixtures will be dispersed more evenly if you
increase the height of the pendant lights 3 inches for every extra foot
of ceiling height. In addition, if you have tall family members, it’s a
good idea to raise the lights a couple of extra inches to allow more
head room.Read more : http://www.ehow.com/way_5842703_high-lights-above-kitchen-island.html

 

We love fabulous lighting in any room and the kitchen is the perfect spot to add a show stopping fixture.  you have lots of options in style and size…let there be light!

Ideally, the bottom
rims of your pendant lights should hang about 30 inches above the
surface of your kitchen island counter. An alternate way to determine
the proper height is to measure from the floor upward. With this method,
the bottom rims of the lighting fixtures should be positioned 60 to 66
inches above the floor. If the ceilings in your kitchen are higher than 8
feet, light from the fixtures will be dispersed more evenly if you
increase the height of the pendant lights 3 inches for every extra foot
of ceiling height. In addition, if you have tall family members, it’s a
good idea to raise the lights a couple of extra inches to allow more
head room.Read more : http://www.ehow.com/way_5842703_high-lights-above-kitchen-island.html
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diy-christmas-tree-alternatives

It’s December 1, is it feeling like Christmas time to you? For many this is the day to put up your tree and start celebrating the season

Whether you’re lacking in space or are opting out of a traditional Christmas tree for any number of reasons (the fact that they tend to become a fire hazard before they make it to the curb in my case), a DIY option might be the perfect alternative. We’ve rounded up five great, creative options from around the web , here are our great alternatives to traditional Christmas trees.

1.  Washi tape Christmas tree

2. Christmas Tree Cones

 3. Christmas Tree of Books

4. Popsicle stick Christmas trees

5. Christmas Lights Tree

I remember one year, as a child, we just didn’t get around to getting a tree (must of been a busy year…) Anyway, we really wanted one – so my sister, my brother and I made one out of construction paper and taped it to the wall.  We added Christmas cards and paper ornaments and of course, a star to top it all off.  My parents have great memories of us doing that together – and that’s what the holidays are all about – beautiful memories,

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we-answer-wednesday-all-about-holiday
“I am always looking at magazines for ideas for my centerpieces, but they all look so expensive and hard to put together. How can I get that look for my home?”

So many people are entertaining from home these days. This is a fad that many thought wouldn’t stick around but entertaining at home is typically more budget friendly and a great way to show off your beautiful home! There are a lot of different ways to throw a dinner party from a formal party to a backyard BBQ, but regardless of your type of party, 9 times out of 10, there will be a centerpiece on the dinner table.

Here are some suggestions on what to use as a centerpiece for your dinner parties.

Floral centerpieces

– are a classic and traditional option. There are so many different types of floral arrangements that can be present on your table. So how does one decide?
 

Incorporate a colour scheme

Part of hosting is making things look nice for your guests. Plan your floral arrangement based on a predetermined colour scheme. For example, if you have all white dishes and serve ware, incorporating another colour will enhance the table setting. Maybe you love purple and don’t own any purple dinner accessories. A centerpiece is a fabulous place to incorporate it. A white and purple floral arrangement would be a beautiful way to spice up your traditional white dishes.

There are so many sizes and shapes and styles of centerpieces to create. Depending on the size of your table, you may have the space to have multiple arrangements on the table. A series of small vases instead of one large arrangement gives your table a fresh look. It doesn’t have to be flowers either! As you can see in this photo, beautiful and bold lilacs in these oversized teal vases with glass bottles mixing in for fun make a big impact but the arrangement is so simple, paired with robin’s egg blue dinner plates and glasses set on the rough textured, reclaimed wood harvest table looks absolutely incredible for a spring dinner or wedding

 

Candles

Candles are another classic option for a center piece. These can be arranged in many different ways using various colours, sizes and textures. Candle centerpieces have so much DIY potential, and with sites like Pinterest and Houzz, the options are truly endless for what you can do! There’s no reason to go crazy expensive either… Simple is beautiful too. If you’re looking for a wow-factor, be creative with your arrangement, it will look great!!

Holiday Themed Centerpieces are so much fun.

For Christmas, try adding ornaments into a large dish. Throw in a little sparkle if you can! A little glitter by candle light will make your table shine.

When it comes to ‘dressing up’ your table think about these important points…

  1. Time of year, seasonal decor is easy to find so it won’t be a stressful endeavor to under take

  1. Type of gathering.  Is it formal? Casual? Family-friendly? Inside or Outside?  This will be vital when decide what to put on that table
  1. How crafty are you? There are tons of great ideas with glue guns, glitter and so much more but if you aren’t a crafty soul you could get stressed out, keep it simple, sometimes the simplest decor makes the most impact.
  1. Waste.  If you worry about waste think about edible centerpieces like fruit, candy, nuts or even beautiful artisan bread laid and displayed in a chic way.  If you opt for florals, think about how you could re-purpose the arrangements in your own home or give them away as a ‘prize’ like you often see at Weddings.

 

 

You can do so much with basics like ribbon, mason jars, flowers, paint, glitter, flowers, twigs, burlap, leaves, pumpkins, nuts, fruit, coffee beans, candles and other basics from around the home, the possibilities are really endless…

 

We love the look of a simple and seasonal centerpiece – celebrate the beauty that surrounds you everyday and embrace it!

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We took some time just  before the holiday season to talk to experts to get the best step-by-step tips on How To Decorate Your Christmas Tree this year. 

Before you start think about the overall look you want, check out sites like Pinterest for ideas.  A white tree can be very funky or elegant depending on the choice of ornaments and colour theme.  Do you have high ceilings? A 9′ ft tree might be a perfect fit for the room.  There is so much selection of Christmas decor nowadays the possibilities are truly endless.

Step 1: Make sure you like the placement of the tree, it could be tricky to move it later.

*Fluff the tree (if artificial) and add lights (if your tree isn’t pre-lit).

*Keep the lights on while decorating the tree. Add the tree skirt now, so you don’t knock any of the decor off later

Step 2: Add the garland.

*Start about 1/5th the way down from the top of the tree.
 
*Use floral wire to attach the garland or twist branches together if the tree is artificial. If you want to keep it super simple, look for ribbon garland with wire so it is easy to twist around the tree.
 

*Run at an angle around the tree: 2-3 times around a 6′ tree and 3-4 times around a 9′ tree.

Step 3: Add oversized ornaments and decorations.

 *Use 2-3 oversized items on a 6′ tree and 3-4 items on a 9′ tree.
 
*Lanterns and/or urns work great on a tree.  Just remember to make sure they are sturdily wired in place and add filler.  And don’t use a live flame on candles!
 
*Place the largest pieces toward the bottom of the tree.
 
*Mix the items up.  They don’t all need to match

.

Step 4: Add ornaments.

 *First, place larger ornaments on the inside of the tree for added dimension.
 
*Next, place a few large ornaments toward the outside of the tree.  This is where you’ll want to put the ornaments that you want to showcase.
 
*Use long ornaments to help fill empty spaces.

 

Step 5: Tweak, tweak and then tweak some more.

 *Step back from your tree and it examine it throughout the process. Do you have too much of one colour in a certain area? Have certain styles of ornaments clumped together? Does the decor look even/balanced?
 

*Make tweaks as you go.

Step 6: You’re finished!

 Now pat yourself on the back and enjoy the oohs and aahs of your family and friends!

Enjoy the ‘tree trimming’ – play some music, take your time and relax – it doesn’t have to look perfect! It’s a part of the celebration of the Christmas season,

 

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we-answer-wednesday-coffee-table

“I’ve been looking for a coffee table but I can’t find one I like.  Any suggestions?”

There are many coffee table options on the market ranging from glass, metal, wood and more but if you aren’t finding anything you like maybe it’s time to try something unexpected.  Instead of a coffee table, boost your room’s style and function with a clever alternative….

An Upholstered Bench

It provides a comfortable spot to put up your feet after a long day and can be used as extra seating when entertaining.  And when you a need a flat serving surface – add a sturdy tray!  This is a great option especially if you are living in a smaller space.  Plus benches come in a variety of sizes so you can opt for something narrower for a small space or an over sized option for a larger living room

A Trunk –

Trunks come in a variety of materials ranging from metal, wicker and wood and if you cruise the vintage stores you may be in luck and find a cool distressed trunk with some real character.  You can achieve a multitude of styles depending on the finish you choose.  Wicker gives a more relaxed country feel, metal can give you an industrial element and a wood trunk depending on the style could give a clean contemporary or global accent look.  But a trunk gives a great surface space for serving or just displaying great books or decor pieces but also provides storage for extra blankets, DVD’s, board games or even serving pieces that don’t fit in the kitchen

Garden Stools –

A pair of stools or even small ottomans are easy to move around in a small space.  Set two side-by-side, then separate them to use as an extra perch when you are in a pinch.  Garden stools add a touch of femininity to a space as they usually have a floral inspired cut outs and the have a roundness about them.  They also come in range of colours so you can really express your style!

A furniture piece that serves double duty is always a great addition,

 

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home-update-adding-reclaimed-wood

We love the look of reclaimed wood. So many people are styling their homes with a more rustic look these days and we’re all in! There is nothing cozier than the addition of warm tones throughout your home. While this may not be to everyone’s taste, those who like it, like it a lot! So how do you add this look to your home without re-vamping your whole décor? Easy!

Having every single surface in your home in various wood tones will begin to feel redundant and very cottage-y. Which is not a bad thing if that’s the look you’re going for. If you’re looking for a décor refresh, adding reclaimed wood tones to your space is a fabulous way to change the feel of your home without swapping everything you own.

1. Reclaimed Wood Coffee Table.

This is something that is sold in furniture and home décor stores everywhere!
The options are endless. Various tones and types of wood make the varieties borderline overwhelming. The variety of base options and elements will match any space. A reclaimed wood cable table is something that will stand the test of time, as wood is a classic material, so don’t think that this isn’t an investment piece. Decide what look you want in your space and build from there. A modern home maybe have a lot of chrome elements, and a reclaimed table with a chrome base will complement the existing décor.

2. Wood Lighting Fixture

You may think that sounds like something that belongs in a chalet but it’s not! So many light fixtures are super versatile, and work in a multitude of spaces. The addition of wood to a space almost instantly adds a warm and cozy vibe, depending on the décor of the space. If your whole home is ultra-modern with white and black leather everywhere a singular light fixture may not instantly do the trick, but you’re certainly on your way if that’s the idea! Adding various elements to your home give your home depth and personality. So, buy what you love!

 

 

3. Reclaimed Wood Accent Wall

This is such a cool idea and a fantastic DIY project. There are so many tutorials on how to make one yourself. But if you’re not a savvy do-it-yourself-er, this is also something that are sold in many places. The addition of the wood wall is such a cozy addition to a space, there are even wallpapers that look like reclaimed wood, without the price tag!

4. Reclaimed Wood Dining Table and Sideboard

Another fabulous addition to add into your space. There are so many options with reclaimed wood. Do you want a studded metal detail? A chrome base? Do you love the look of wrought iron? Round? Square? Rectangular? The options are truly endless! A reclaimed wood dining set is a great investment piece for a multitude of reasons: 1. Such versatility! If you suddenly decide you love contemporary décor, fabulous! This works. Traditional décor? No problem! A solid wood table is a long lasting investment and typically, worth every penny.

 

5. Reclaimed Wood Headboards

This is a fabulous DIY project. A reclaimed wood headboard is such a fun addition to any space. There are so many links for making this at home, and it is a fabulous budget friendly option. This addition to your home is a warm and cozy material and your bedroom is definitely somewhere you want to feel warm and comfortable!

 

 

6. Add Wood Accessories.

The most budget friendly addition to your home: accessories. If you love the wood look and are looking for cost savings, this is the place. There are so many home décor stores that carry such great wooden accessories be it a wooden horse, lamps with a wooden base, a wooden tray to add to your coffee table, wooden candle holders.. the options are endless!
Even small changes make a difference in your home!
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we-answer-wednesday-all-about-accen

“I love the look of accent walls, but I’m nervous to do it in my home. How do I decide which wall I should add the accent to? And what colour should I do?” 

 

 

Using an accent wall in your home adds so many different elements to a room.

A pop of colour showcases your personality, adds interest and a focal point to a room. The options are endless! You can add a bold paint colour, patterned wallpaper, neutral tones, a pattern with paint, solid wallpaper … you can do whatever you want, and it’s your home!

Adding an accent wall is a great and inexpensive way to update a room without a huge price tag and commitment. If this is your first time adding an accent wall to your home, we suggest not going too crazy with the colour you chose.

 

Having an accent wall in an open concept space helps to define certain areas of the home without having the put up walls, similar to how having area rugs help to separate the spaces. But there are a few questions you have to ask yourself before you create an accent wall…

 

What is the style of the room you want to add an accent wall to?

 

If your room is very neutral and traditional adding a super bold colour like a solid orange may be way too much. It won’t flow nicely…And it will likely be the only thing you’ll notice in the room. You want your accent wall to be just that, a nice accent. Not an eyesore. If your room is full of blue tones…Maybe adding a navy accent wall, or a wallpaper with blue tones throughout.

 

 

Adding an accent wall looks best when there is some harmony through the space. Having an all blue room and then a yellow wall may not flow the way you expected. Now, having a pattern with blues and the addition of yellow throughout as well may be the perfect balance.

 

 

Create a focal point.

 

If you’re unsure which wall to paint an accent wall- just think about which wall you want to be the focal point of the room. Do you have a wall with a fireplace that is a prominent feature in the space? Paint that wall! Or a couch and art you want to emphasize.

 

 

For bedrooms, the wall the bed is against is a common wall to add an accent to; it really makes the bed stand out. Maybe you have a really beautiful dresser and mirror on one wall, paint the wall behind that to make a statement and accentuate the beautiful furniture.

 

In a dining room, a great wall to paint is the one you see as you walk in, the view of the table and lighting and then a bold statement wall behind will create a lovely focal point as well.

 

 

 

The options truly are endless. Try to make the room flow and use colours that aren’t completely random to your space. If you have lots of beige and taupes, a chocolate brown accent wall makes sense. Staying within the colour family you have currently, is a no fail rule to create a beautiful space for a home décor newbie.

 
 An accent wall can add real drama to your space,
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tips-for-decorating-boys-bedroo

There are so many cute boys’ bedroom décor options between the duvet, artwork, rugs and furniture. It can be overwhelming! But how do you narrow down what exactly to buy? Depending on the age of your child, and his tastes, most people don’t want to have to change the room once a year as their child grows up. In this blog we’ll help you determine where it’s best to spend, and where it’s best to save.

 

Buy quality furniture.

Furniture is something that they don’t have to grow out of for a lot of years. Once your child is old enough to have a twin bed, that’s something he could have for 10 years. Buying a quality bed is a good investment, since quality will stand the test of time. Buying a cheap bed will likely need to be replaced in 2-3 years. And doing that a few times over the years will end up costing you more than if you had invested in a solid piece earlier.
Purchase a quality dresser. Another piece of furniture your child will have for 10 + years. If it is a classic style and finish, it won’t be something he will tire of. A quality dresser is something that can last forever. It can go to college when it’s time! This is another item that is definitely worth the investment.


A desk is something that is also a great investment.

This is a personal preference for parents, because many kids may not get homework done in their bedrooms. If your kids need supervision during homework time, this may not be a necessity for your household.

The less expensive items for decor

The accessories are the items that are interchangeable. As your child grows, naturally his tastes will change. When he is five maybe he loves superman and cars.. but that isn’t something that he is necessarily going to love when he is 11. These smaller ticket items aren’t going to set you back a whole lot of money.

 

                                

Buying a neutral duvet cover

is a great idea. Choose a colour palette that won’t get tiresome and add the accessories that are less expensive in. Throw pillows, a cozy blanket and some fun sheets are a great place to add a favourite superhero or maybe sports accessories! Many places such as West Elm Kids, Pottery Barn Kids, and Land of Nod have quality accessories that wont break the bank!

Inexpensive kids artwork is available through many retailers and websites.. whether it be cartoons, cars or animals, it is a great addition to a space without being locked in forever.

Area rug

Flor Tiles  are another great option for a kids room. Most kids have a play area in their bedroom, but buying an area rug can really run up a bill. These carpet tiles can be pealed and replaced should something happen to one of them for anywhere between 12-25 dollars per tile.
 
When I decorated my boys’ bedroom – I let them give me ideas- mostly on colour.  I really wanted to stay away from anything too themed.  So we have some great bold red and white striped duvet covers and then we have some fun bed sheets.  The duvets will last longer which is why I wanted some that weren’t attached to a theme.
I added a mix of art with a super hero theme (but as they get older – I can replace it and it didn’t cost a lot).  I also hung up their art and some photos (they love looking at photos of themselves!) I like to see lots of print and colours in a child’s bedroom but I think you can do that without going over budget or getting caught up in a theme.  Luckily I haven’t had to make many changes to their bedroom in terms of decor!
 
Remember to have fun when decorating for a kids room! You want them to love it and showcase their personality at the same time.
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kitchen-and-bathroom-ideas

Kitchens and bathrooms do help sell houses, although they may not be the main deciding factor, they are strong contenders when buyers consider what property they will now call home. Buyers consider these rooms when they are house hunting because of the difficulty of renovating them and the expense that would be required. If you have been diligent in the upkeep and upgrades of your home then this week’s notes will not be as difficult.

 

 

 However, if you have never updated your home or maintained the repairs in the baths and kitchens, then this could be a pricey section! Truth be told, you will pay to do upgrades in these rooms, either when it comes time to sell and you have to reduce the price to reflect the work needed, or over the years while you live there and have been paying to maintain and upgrade.

 

Homeowners typically should be spending 1-3% of their market value every year to upgrade and maintain their property in good condition. So if this has not been done, it will need to be.

 

 

What types of upgrades can you do?

  • Updating Appliances in all the same color, this includes the hood fan. Especially if they are more than 10 years old.
  • Replace or Repair all damaged tiles or flooring
  • Repaint kitchen cabinets (or do touch ups)
  • Consider a kitchen update if older than 7 years. New kitchens price at $5,000 and up, depending on if you are installing them yourself. This is not recommended for beginners no matter how keen you are!
  • Install new counter tops or call a Granite company for a granite looking overlay that is less than the price of real granite
  • Update flooring, even a small bathroom looks like a new world with brand new floors
  • Update light fixtures
  • Paint the ceilings
  • Take off old tiles in the bathtub or shower and add a new surround. A simple do it yourself kit can be purchased for around $300.00
  • Add under cabinet lighting
  • Add new shower faucets and shower rods
  • Re-grout your existing tile if it is still in good shape, adding a new grout color can go far
  • Fresh paint colors in warm neutrals make a room look 100 x better for a small investment of time and money
  • Update faucets to the latest trends
  • Tighten all knobs, or replace for a modest cost. Knobs range from $3.00 to over $10.00 per piece, so it is a small investment for a great improvement
  • Replace toilet seats, especially if they are cracked, wooden or themed
  • Add new blinds or window coverings
  • New sinks, curtain rods and towel bars also make a great first impression

 

 

Remember you are giving the buyers every reason to buy your house, so carefully consider the first impression and ask yourself what do you look for when you are the buyer? How do you compare houses when you are the buyer? Then create a property that will attract buyers. It’s as simple as that.

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we-answer-wednesday-proscons-of

“What are the pros/cons of installing laminate flooring? I always see such affordable sales on laminate but wonder if it will last or what the quality will be like…”

 Laminate flooring products have come a long way over the years.  Laminate now comes in so many different colours, textures and sizes. The versatility they offer is undeniably a fantastic option for many reasons. There are laminate products made to look like various stone floors, and more commonly, as hardwood floors. Laminate products come in barn board, wide plank, textured, matte, there are options with sheen, and the colour and tone options could go on forever. With many laminate flooring options, you can’t even tell it’s not hardwood because it looks just as fantastic as a hardwood product. (Or even better!)

 

Cost/Installation:

Laminate flooring is definitely an excellent cost saving flooring, and you’re not compromising style. Laminate is cheaper and easier to install than hardwood. Laminate flooring can be placed on top of almost any existing floor with the exception of carpet. There are many manufacturers who offer a glue-free, tongue-and-groove system. The interlocking planks make it an easy installation for a weekend project for all you savvy DIY-ers. Laminate can be uninstalled without damaging the laminate or the original flooring that is underneath.

 

 
Durability/Cleaning:
Of course, for re-sale of your home, hardwood is preferred by some buyers. Hardwood is more expensive and in some cases, can be less durable. The great thing about laminate is that it is MORE durable than hardwood. Laminate flooring works well in high-traffic areas and homes with pets. It is scratch-resistant and so easy to clean. Just use a dust mop or a mop dampened with water. Most manufacturers offer at least a 10-year warranty on their product.
 

 

Of course, Laminate has its drawbacks as well. With hardwood, once it begins to look tired, it can be re-stained. Laminate cannot, and will have to be replaced. Luckily, there will be a warranty. Laminate flooring is also not always the best for noise absorption. It can often have a hollow sound when you walk on it, but installing an acoustic underlay will help reduce the noise.  And when it comes to resale market, most buyers do prefer hardwood but some of the laminate products on the market it is hard to tell them apart.

 

 We are loving the different options that we are seeing in laminate – our favourite are the amazing reclaimed wood look in these floors – it has so much character and adds some much interest to a space!
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