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home decor

HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Matching Wood stains : furniture and floors

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“Do our wood stains need to match? We are looking to buy a new dining room table.  We like the idea of wood (but it doesn’t have to be wood) but we have wood floors – do we match the wood table to the floors?”

 

A new piece of furniture is a great update for any space and any style of decor. Wood is always a great option as it is durable and adds a natural texture to any space.  When it comes to wood, you don’t need to match and we really recommend that you don’t match it makes everything blend and look a little washed out and you won’t draw attention to the new dining table.

 

We suggest adding some contrast with your new table.  So if you have light floors opt for a darker stain table and vice-versa.

 

Other ways to get contrast with your wood floors is to opt for a table that isn’t wood at all!  Metal or glass are ways to get contrast and add some interesting textures to your space.

 

 

When it comes to your chairs, try a chair in a different tone or a different material all together – this gives the room some contrast as well but also shows off your personal style.  Depending on the style of chair you select this can either dress up or dress down your stable and give you the feel you want in your dining space. A dining room set with matching pieces tends to make less of a statement.

 

We love to see the different wood stains in a room but be sure that the stains have a common undertone and that you don’t have too many.  when all of your wood stains match it’s a bit washed out and when you have too many it’s too busy.  Aim for about 3.

 

 

Wood adds so much warmth to a space, it’s a great natural material to incorporate into any room. We love the character and texture it brings to a space but that can get lost if you over use it, so mix it up and let it be naturally beautiful!

 

 

 

 

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS

How to Get the ‘Model Home’ Look in your Home

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If you have ever been to a model home you have probably asked yourself  – ‘why doesn’t my home look like this?’ Well it can!  There are some easy and simple styling tricks that you can use at home to get that ‘model home’ look.

 

1. Keep it clean and de-clutter:

So you are living in the house and it can be tricky to keep clean but put together a cleaning schedule and do your best to stick to it – regular wiping down, cleaning or dishes and floors makes a huge difference.  Find some cute baskets or boxes to hold every day clutter like mail and flyers from school.  Commit to a purge (seasonally would be ideal) to get rid of the extra stuff that you aren’t using and haven’t used in a long time! You will be amazed at how much junk you hold on to – it feels great to let it go!

 

2. Floating furniture :

Not levitating furniture, but floating – in other words not pushed up against the walls.  Sure in some floor plans this is really the only choice but even just pulling it away an inch or two makes the space look and feel more intimate and designed. In a big open floor plan, separate the space with floating furniture that serves two distinct purposes, say a seating/conversation space and then a TV hang out space for a large and open living space.

 

 

 

3. Lighting:

Let there be light and lots of it! Not only does a brighter space feel bigger and cleaner but it’s a great way to update a space.  When you are adding lighting in your space think layers! So overhead lighting mixed with table and floor lamps etc…Layered lighting looks sophisticated but you can also play with the ambiance using your lighting.  Relying on one light source is a bit tired and one dimensional. also aim to have the light evenly distributed in the room (so not everything in one side or corner of the room).

 

 

4. Outdoors indoors:

Take a look at model home they always have some natural element – it could be a plant (large or small), natural herbs, floral arrangement or a bowl of lemons in the kitchen, branches or sticks in a vase, natural sponge in the bathroom – just some small natural touches can do wonders in a space.  It adds warmth and authenticity to the space.

 

 

5. Area rugs:

Are used to add colour and texture plus warmth but they also add a great visual effect in terms of creating designated spaces and functions. An open concept space with out any area rugs with floating furniture looks very lost but by adding the correct size area rug (even just in the living room) automatically grounds and defines the space.  Area rugs really are a must!

 

 

6. Bed:

Like the area rug – the bed really grounds or anchors the bedroom, this really is non-negotiable for a master bedroom.  You want the room and the furniture to have a strong presence.  Even a beautifully made/styled bed looks weak without a headboard.

 

 

7. Bookcases:

When it comes to bookcase we tend to see these 2 options.  1- complete jammed and over stuffed with books falling out, or 2 – sparse, bare and empty.  To get the designer ‘model home’ look bookcases are a great piece but they have to be balanced.  So books stacked in an organized fashion with some decor added in.  Carefully styled but still functional.  This gives the space style but it also isn’t over whelming.  Many think books in a bookcase is organized but when they are over stuffed the room feels heavy and cramped, and when they are falling out, it’s a mess! A bare bookcase looks light but it also looks weak and kind of pointless.

 

 

8. Drapery:

A great decorative feature that can also serve a function.  Yes, shades and blinds are go-to’s for privacy but add some simple drapery panels on either side of the window and you’ve got ‘wow-factor’!

 

 

The designer look doesn’t have to come with a big price tag! Follow these tips and you will have your home looking like a model,

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HOLIDAYS, HOME DECOR

8 Fall Home Decor Must-Haves

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Fall is one of our favourite seasons- we love the crisp weather, the cozy sweaters but mostly we love the gorgeous colours and all the beauty that this season has to offer!

Here are some of our favourite staples to celebrate the Fall season:

 

1 – Exterior

– create a welcoming vignette at the front door.  This is such an inviting way to greet guests.  We love a bench or chair with some burlap pillows, pumpkins and a wreath.  So simple but so stylish.

2 – Orange

– orange is a great colour, it works with all decor styles and it looks great with neutrals.  Try adding some small accents of orange to your regular home decor.

3 – Metallics

– if you want a more glamorous or luxurious nod to fall, try playing with metallic tones like gold, bronze and copper.   This is a great look anywhere but we love it on a fireplace mantle or a dining table centerpiece. These tones really compliment the season.

4 – Nature

– add the beauty of nature to your space.  A simple floral or branch arrangement is easy.  A bowl of apples, gourds, corn, wood etc…the sky is the limit!  Bring the beauty of the outdoor indoors.

5 – Plaid

– this pattern is synonymous with the fall season.  It has a cozy factor and there are endless choice in terms of colours and styles.  To add a touch of coziness to your space this fall season, add some plaid! Pillows and blankets are easy ways to do that!

6 – Texture

– this time of year we see some many textures outside, the trees, leaves, pumpkins, gourds plus all of the textures in our fall clothing.  Bring that inspiration inside and play with textures in your space. And don’t forget to add some soft and cozy textures like chunky knitted blankets and (faux) fur pieces like pillows and throws.

7 –  Animals

– we have seen deer heads and antlers (real and faux) for a while in home decor – it had a bit of an ironic twist but now we are seeing the beauty of animals in pillows and art.

8 – Lanterns

– the days are getting shorter this time of year, so add some more light with a flame.  This adds another layer of lighting plus it adds to the scene.  Lanterns are a great element to add to your decor, too – they add a rustic touch!

Fall is my favourite season and I just love to bring in my favourite pieces of this season – texture, colour and natural elements make my home so cozy. I hope you enjoy decorating for this stunning season, too!

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, TRENDS

Home Decor Ideas: How to Decorate with Velvet

how-to-decorate-with-velvet

Velvet is making a come back! So if you pay close attention to fashion you have probably noticed the influence of the 90’s (chokers, brown lipstick and baby doll dresses just to name a few of the styles that have bounced back into trend).

Well like fashion from the runways we definitely see the influence of women’s fashion translate into our homes.  One of the trends you will be seeing this coming year (but we are already seeing it in some stores) is VELVET! Yes, that’s right Velvet.  The luxurious fabric that you just have to touch when you see it.  In the 90’s we saw a lot of velvet jackets, skirts, tops and dresses and this year we will see it in home fashion.

If you are a follower of fashion and you love to be on trend – this is definitely for you! 

Here are some Home decor Ideas with Velvet:

1.  Velvet Throw Pillows –

this is an easy way to bring this trend into your space without spending a fortune.  The touchable fabric adds a bit of luxury to a space but also visual interest.  We always suggest mixing textures to give your space a sophisticated and designer look.  The great news is when it comes to velvet, the colour choices are truly endless.  Find a pillow or two in velvet in a colour that coordinates with your existing scheme.  We love to see oversized pillows (think 20×20) in velvet for the living room or bedroom. A solid colour velvet pillow can really add to a space.

2. Velvet Throw blanket –

again another easy nod to the trend that won’t cost you a ton.  Like the throw pillow, choose a colour that will work with your current room palette.  The texture of this throw will really add a new level of sophistication to the space.

3. Velvet Ottoman or Pouf  –

We have seen a ton of velvet ottomans in stores lately.  We have also seen a lot of ottoman styles in velvet – tufted, round, bench with legs etc…Like the pillows and the throw this adds that sophisticated element to a room, this is a bit more expensive so be sure to like the idea of velvet before really committing.  We love to see a velvet ottoman in a rich jewel tone – it’s a bit glamour but still timeless. Think living room, bedroom, glamorous office space or front entry – make a statement!

4. Velvet Dining chairs or armchair –

this starts to get a bit pricier but if you want to make a statement in your space this would be one!  If you love to make a splash and want to be remembered for your decor choices – velvet chairs are one way to go.  We do love an accent chair and velvet is a way to make a bold pop in a space.  Think of a great accent chair in a living room or chairs in a dining space.  We love the softness and luxury that velvet brings but pair it with some modern elements like a glass table and a touch of gold – so chic!

5. Velvet Headboard –

love the idea of velvet but not for your main living space? It makes a sophisticated splash in a bedroom.  We love a nail head headboard but in velvet, wow – that’s stunning!  We prefer sticking with a timeless hue as it is easy to work with as you change your bed linens but it will also always be in style.  It looks great paired with metallic lamps and oversized end tables.

6. Velvet Sofa –

If you LOVE velvet, a sofa in velvet might be for you.  It is a classic fabric so it won’t go out of style.  You can be as classic as you like in terms of style of sofa and colour or you can be as bold and bright as you like.  It is a commitment so be sure to follow you heart.  We love the look of a charcoal or navy velvet sofa with clean lines and minimal pillows – it has a clean, sexy and chic look.  We have also see some fun vintage sofas in bright and fun colours – it’s entirely up to you!

7. Velvet accent chair –

Accent chairs do exactly that add an accent! So try adding some colour and texture with some luxe velvet armchairs!

Remember velvet isn’t exactly family friendly, so be sure to pick velvet accessories or furniture pieces with that in mind – it’s easier to dry clean a pillow or throw than it is a sofa, for instance…..

Texture is one of my favourite elements to add to a room and velvet adds so much luxury, sophistication and class. What do you think of this trend?

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HOME DECOR, HOME STYLING, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to Style a Front Entry

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“I have a small table in my front hall.  It’s great for mail and keys but it’s a bit messy!  I want my front entry to look welcoming and neat – any ideas how to make my entry table look stylish?”

 

An entry table in the front hall is a very functional piece.  You are right it is perfect for mail and keys but it can become a bit of a dumping ground.  A lot of that is habit  so you need to train yourself (and others) to put things like backpacks and other items elsewhere i.e a closet, office or bedroom.

 

But we also believe that if your space is beautiful (by your definition) than you will be more motivated to keep it that way.

 

The front entry table sets the tone for your home and can also be an inviting first impression for guests.

 

Styling your front entry table is all about using the space in a beautiful and practical way. 

Here are some musts:

 

1 – Light

– many front entries have an overhead light fixture but in our opinion you can never have too much light.  Plus having a table lamp on the entry table (assuming you have a wall outlet for it) is handy if you arrive home late or leave early and don’t want to wake the whole house with bright overhead lighting.  When it comes to table lamps you have some many choices – find one that suits and flows with the look of your home. How many lamps should you have? We say one is usually sufficient especially if it is a small space with a small table but if you have a long table in a large entry, 2 table lamps is a nice balance.

 

2- Mirrors

– we love mirrors at the front entry – they play two roles, 1: a great way to take a final look at hair, make up etc…before you head out to wherever you are off too; 2: it allows light to bounce around the room making a smaller and tighter space like an entry feel larger.  If you already have a mirrored surface, like mirrored closet bi-fold doors, opt for an art piece instead.

 

3 – Storage

– part of the front entry is storage, so make it pretty! A bowl on the table is perfect for keys or loose change, it keeps it all contained, easy to access but also hidden (so the surface looks neat).  We also love a basket for two under the entry table – this is ideal for mitts, hats in cooler weather but also summer gear like hats and sunscreen.  Have a dog? Hide their leashes etc. in a basket. Again easy access but neat!

 

4 – Seating

– this is a nice addition if you have the space.  Under the entry table is a great spot to tuck away a small bench, cube ottoman…  Pull it out when guests neat a spot to sit and put on their shoes.  This is also another way to add to your decor – you can have one with some print, colour and/or texture.

 

5 –  Decor

– we’ve covered the necessities of the front hall table and now it’s time to add your personal style! There are many decor items that you can add to the table to add your touch – framed photos, flowers or a plant, or just a decorative item.  Be sure to have room for the necessary pieces and then layer your decor.  The amount of decor depends on the amount of space you have.  We like to vary the heights and shapes and stick with odd numbers.  Keep in mind if your entry table is more functional or decorative (some people have a second entry that is more functional and keep the front entry more beautiful)

 

 

Also if you are selling your home, remember that your potential buyers will also be walking in the front door.  A styled front entry sends a great message and sets the tone.  So be sure to pay attention to your front entry!

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HOME DECOR

How to Decorate with Stripes

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Stripes are a classic and even better they can work with any decor style!  If you have read any of our posts, you know that we love a print and mixing patterns.  So if you are thinking of trying out a pattern in your space consider a stripe – it’s very transitional, it come in all scales and colours, too! You can’t go wrong!  Not sure where to add this classic pattern? We have some ideas for you!

Wall treatment

– whether it’s wall paper or a streamlined paint job – try stripe son the wall.  You can get as big and bold as you like in terms of colour and scale – or opt for a classic neutral. It could fill an entire room or just an accent wall.  We also love to layer our patterns, so don’t be shy to add some art, photography and mirrors over your striped wall.

Pillows

– this is an easy addition (or subtraction) in a room.  Adding some printed pillows can completely elevate the look of your room.  There’s just something about a pattern that adds a designer look to a space.  Some of the great things about pillows is that they aren’t permanent, the selection is endless and they are affordable!  On a sofa, side chair, bed – they work everywhere!

Furniture

– this might be an intimidating step for many but trust us!  A stripe furniture piece can really add a WOW factor to a space.  We do recommend sticking with a neutral palette if you are opting for a pattern piece – it’s easier to work with long term as you want to change up your decor.  And for someone that likes neutrals this can add another sophisticated element to your room, mix it with some other patterns and some solid to give it a designer look.

Drapery

– We love what window coverings can do to a space – from a functional side but also a decor side – sure they block the sunlight (or an unpleasant view) but also add a softness and again, visual interest in a room.  Whether it’s panels or roman blinds – we love them both!  This is a great option for a living space, dining room and a bedroom – we love a stripe window treatment in a kids’ room so timeless and it can grow up with them!

Floor covering

– we love area rugs in any room, they add another layer of softness, they are nice on bare feet,  they pull a room together and of course, it’s another opportunity to add some pattern.  Area rugs can be pricey depending on the size and material you choose, so if you are concerned about budget consider a classic pattern like a stripe.  A stripe area rug is a classic (we have said this a few times, but it’s true!).

Outdoor furniture and accessories

– decorating your outdoor living space is no longer boring! There are so many options for furniture, umbrellas and accessories, too.  We love the look of a stripe in an outdoor space, it’s so fresh and clean! Pillows, umbrellas, cushions and even rugs – it’s up to you!

Stripes are everything – fun, classic, fresh, bold, and also soft – it’s all about the colour tones and what you mix them with this print – you can’t go wrong with bringing stripes into your world…

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to make my home look summer-y

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“How can I make my home look summer-y? The cold weather is finally gone but my home still looks kind of winter-y”

 

Yes, the weather is absolutely beautiful these days and it looks like those chilly days are behind us (at least for a few months).  It’s nice to celebrate the changing of the seasons and if you live in an area like ours, the changes in weather are pretty drastic! We love to have the inside of our homes light and airy like the summer weather so here are some ideas that we use at home.

1 – Flowers

– bring in some beauty of the spring/summer season.  If you have a lovely garden cut some of your own flowers, if you don’t have a garden to pick from the local Farmer’s markets have tons of beautiful flowers this time of year.  We love the see arrangements on coffee tables, dining tables and even bedrooms.

 

 

2- Pillows and throws

– chances are if you live in a colder climate (like us) your pillows and throws (on your bed and sofa) you colour motif is likely deep and dark, so for the warmer seasons lighten it up!  Can this get expensive? Sure.  But if you are smart you can do this on a budget.  Try pillow covers instead of all new pillows.  This way you can keep the inserts, change the covers seasonally and send the off-season covers to be professionally cleaned.  Tuck away your off-season pillows and throws in a closet or a trunk during these warm months.  If you stick with a spring/summer colour scheme and a fall/winter scheme you will get a lot of use of your accent decor pieces. For spring summer, we love a pop of yellow.  Yellow works with blue, green, orange, pink ….. plus it is so sunny and bright!

 

 

3 – Drapery and window coverings

– we aren’t  suggesting a new set of window dressings is mandatory but if you have heavy drapery such as velvet or a really dark colour, you might want to consider a lighter option during the spring/summer months – this will completely transform the look of your home.  And much like the idea with the pillow covers, take the cold season drapery to be cleaned. If you aren’t open to 2 sets of drapery, pull back the curtains and pull up the blinds and let the light in! this will brighten up the room.

 

4 – Fireplace

– the fireplace is a focal point in your room no matter the season.  In those cold winter and crisp fall months, it is easy to style the fireplace but what to do in the warm months? The fireplace likely won’t be in use but it is a big piece of your room.  Style it with some softer textures and tones. You have lots of options but we suggest adding elements that work with your spring/summer colour scheme and adding some botanical pieces (that could be floral arrangements or a seasonal art piece).  We love the image below because it has that summer ease – the plants are a great touch and that mirror in the fireplace is such a great idea.  The garden stool adds a pop of colour but is also another seating option when needed.

 

5 – Texture

– in the warmer months we all love to get outside, so to make your home decor more ‘summer-y’ bring the outdoors in!  Yes, we already mentioned flowers but there are other outdoor elements that you can bring inside.  Think about natural textures like wood, rattan and sisal – they add that soft and natural factor but also a warmth.  These are great options if you lean towards neutrals, in terms of your decor palette.  The richness of these textures adds a sophistication to any space.

 

 

You can create a welcoming entry in the summer by adding a summer themed wreath and planters.  Maybe even a bench with some outdoor pillows – this will create a warm and inviting vignette for family and friends!

 

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INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS

What does it mean to “shop your home” ?

what-does-it-means-to-shop-your-home

If you have been watching home decor shows on TV or reading online articles about home decor recently, you have likely heard the term ‘shop your home’.  It’s #trending these days….let us explain to you what this term and trend mean.

 

Basically #shopyourhome is all about using what you have already and bringing it out (if it was stored away), maybe re-purposing it or maybe even updating it. It’s part of a recycling movement – instead of tossing out items that are just out dated but are still in good condition and work just fine, give them new life by updating them or re-purposing them (a new location or a new purpose all together).

 

Some great “shop your home” examples…

 

Paint –

We all know what paint can do to a room but what can it do to an old piece of furniture or a light fixture? Instead of buying new – update what you have!  This is easy, affordable and you are recycling something that might other wise end up in a landfill. this painted light fixture is a simple fix, affordable too plus the end result is a unique ‘one of a kind’ light fixture that will add WOW factor to your room.

 

Fabric –

Give a bench or chair new life with some fabric.  A few yards of fabric will go a long way and give you a whole new look.  It is easy to re-upholster a simple bench or chair seat – you will need some fabric, fabric glue, staple gun and a screwdriver to remove the seat cushion.  You may want to add some foam or cotton batting if the seat needs some volume or cushioning.

Hardware –

New hardware can completely change the look of a room.  We recommend this to our home staging clients as well.  This works on furniture and cabinetry – this is a great update for a kitchen and bathroom.  It is easy to do but it really makes a big impact.

 

 

Art –

Bored of your current art displays but can’t replace your pieces? Try moving your art into a different room or in a different arrangement.  This can make a huge different in a space. It’s a great way to display pieces that aren’t usually seen.

 

 

Garden –

Do you have beautiful flowers in your garden? Instead of buying cut flowers from the market use your own – it adds a special touch to your space and it’s a great way to add a welcoming scene to a table scape, front entry, coffee table or even a guest bedroom.

 

Scarf –

If you are like either of us, you probably have a drawer full of beautiful scarves and for every season – so make use of them!  Try re-purposing your scarves as a table runner.  Think bright and colourful for summer, neutral for fall and airy for spring.  It adds a fresh new look to the table, it sets the scene and it adds a unique touch.

 

Furniture –

Try moving your pieces into a different layout or swapping pieces around – accent chairs are a great and easy choice to re-arrange.  Think of re-arranging your furniture to take advantage of a view of your garden in the summer months or  place your furniture in a way to snuggle up by the fireplace.

 

 

Feeling inspired yet?  Home decor can get expensive but if you shop at home and get creative you can get a whole new look !

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BATHROOMS, STORAGE + ORGANIZING, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday: How to add extra storage to a bathroom (without a renovation)

we-answer-wednesday-how-to-add-extra

“We live in a small house and the whole family shares a bathroom.  We are managing just fine but the clutter of everyday stuff is getting to me.  What can we do to add some storage to our bathroom and not take on a renovation?”

 

The bathroom is a busy place and every high traffic area has a lot of stuff collecting everywhere but there are some things you can do to at least keep it under control.

We suggest taking a look at the type of clutter and where it is.  Counter space in a bathroom can often get overwhelmed with products and more and it can lead to spills and just overall disorganization.

 

Baskets.

Can keep things look neat and tidy but still at your finger tips.  We often recommend baskets when we stage homes as they are easy to hide and bring out when you need them.  But for everyday, there is no problem with baskets that are ‘out’ – just having your items tucked away in a small basket keeps things looking (and feeling) organized.

 

 

Another great way to use baskets is hanging them – it’s pretty and pretty practical.  That space over the toilet is often used for decor purposes but make it functional. These basic baskets (in a coordinating colour) hung on towel racks are a great way to keep everyone organized, so smart!

 

Towel racks.

Think about relocating your towel racks to a location in the bathroom that will allow you to use the other wall space for more small storage. Hanging 2 smaller towel racks on the back of the door makes so much sense and it gives you more room for other important storage pieces and ideas.

 

 

Floating shelves.

We highly recommend that floating shelves in your bathroom be the small colour or close to the same colour as your walls – this will keep them from looking and feeling bulky in the space.  A floating shelf is ideal for items that you need easy access to like towels or toilet paper.  Adding a few decorative items to an open shelf makes it more pleasing to the eye.  But matching baskets to contain smaller pieces is attractive, too.

 

 

Small storage pieces.

If you move your towel rack you might be surprised to find some wall space that would work for a small storage piece.  We love the idea of a tiered or ladder shelf, the piece itself isn’t bulky and it offers lots of storage for everyday items.

        

 

Hooks and hangers.

Keep your towels (used ones) organized with hooks on the wall.  For your children keep the hooks at their level – this will mean they can hang up and tidy up on their own.

 

 

Closed storage piece.

We have looked at a lot of open shelving options but if that won’t work for you look into a piece with doors (aka closed storage).  Chances are you will be able to find something that works with your current vanity – it really is best to have something similar we want consistency and flow. Look at the image below – this is a whole set.  It looks clean and streamlined not bulky and messy.  This is a great spot to hide medicine, creams, personal grooming items and more.

 

Don’t forget about the interior of our vanity for storage….

Try using a kitchen utensil holder to organize costume jewelry or even make up

 

 

Baskets inside of your vanity are very effective too.

 

 

A Lazy-Susan isn’t just for the kitchen, we love it for inside of a cupboard.  cupboards can get cluttered an disorganized very easily.  A lazy-Susan will help with organization, maximizing the space and gives you easy access. Or even just tiered shelving for inside of a cupboard – try the kitchen organizing department.

 

 

Lighting.

A dark room any room will always feel smaller so be sure to check on that lighting.  Are your bulbs working? Are they bright enough? Can you add more bulbs? Think about updating a fixture with more bulbs to add more light if you need it.

 

Paint.

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders.  A small space like a bathroom would be a great weekend job for painting and with the right colour you can really brighten up that space.

 

Easy updates can make your bathroom look and feel like new!

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – A Whole Home Colour Concept

we-answer-wednesday-whole-home-colour

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Let’s get started:

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

1. Pick a white.

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

 

2. Pick a neutral.

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

 

3. Pick a saturated colour.

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

 

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

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

 
4 and 5. Pick accent colours.

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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