Browsing Tag

home styling

moody-blues-decorating-blue

Blue is a great colour to decorate with! There are so many shades of blue that you will definitely find one that suits your taste and style.  Blue is also a great classic colour so if you invest in some pieces you don’t have to worry that it wasn’t money well spent.

Blue is a great accent colour because it also works will all neutrals – white, cream, taupe, grey, brown you name it – it works! Blue is also a great colour to add to your exterior decor! In the spring and summer months, we see these beautiful blue tones in outdoor furniture and accessories, too!

Today’s focus is on the softer shades of blue – the aqua tones, robin’s egg, turquoise – to add a fresh spring / summer brightness to your space.  Adding some simple blue accessories to your space can transform your whole room without undertaking any huge renovation projects.

Here are just a few of our ‘moody blue’ picks:

Pillow Covers:

The pillow covers are perfect for spring and summer – the soft blue colour is light and airy and the nature motif is a great addition to a bedroom or living room.  These are pillow covers, so you can layer your ‘cooler’ weather pillows with these so you don’t need to find storage space for the ‘old’ pillows.

 

Table Lamp:

Lamps are a great way to add a pop of colour to a room.  We love turquoise and this lamp from Bungalow Rose  is perfect! We love the colour of the base and the shape, too – and the simple white drum shade gives the lamp a clean look and let’s that beautiful blue tone really stand out!

Wall Tile:

Something we are starting to see more of this year is interesting tile! We are seeing more colourful and patterned tiles in kitchens and bathrooms – either as a small accent (like a shower nook or just a small strip) or a full splash of vibrant colour (or pattern).  A blue tile paired with white or grey is a great look in a bathroom.  To make a statement you don’t have to use a lot.

Area Rug:

Area rugs are another favourite way to add visual interest in a room – we love what a patterned rug can do in a room and this stunning Blue and Ivory Rug from Bungalow Rose is a gorgeous addition to any space.  The colour and pattern are so light and fresh!

 

 Art:

Art really pulls a room together and it’s also an easy and affordable way to add something new to your space.  When it comes to art, don’t feel like you have to spend a lot of money on ‘one of a kind’ pieces – choose something you like! We love the colours in this art piece – the tones and fresh and soothing!

Accent furniture:

Smaller or accent furniture pieces like this armchair and another way to add some blue to your space without a major overhaul to your room.  We love the mix of the soft blue with the natural wood. The lines and size of this chair make it perfect for a smaller space or a corner.

 

Kitchen storage:

Don’t forget about the kitchen! The kitchen isn’t often a room that we think about adding decor to – but why not? There are so many cute, colourful and useful kitchen gadgets and items. We love this bread box, it has a bit of a retro feel and look especially in this colour.

 

Kitchen towels:

Add a pop of colour with your kitchen towels (aka tea towels, dish towels).  Just because something is useful doesn’t mean it can’t be pretty too!

 

We love this shade of blue – it’s a great hue for spring and summer accents in the home!

25 comments
Share:
connect-dots-decorating-polka-dots

We love a Polka Dot print! Polka Dots are a fun print to decorate with – they add a touch of whimsy and a bit of a retro vibe to a space.

What’s the History of the Polka Dot?

The Polka Dot is a print that really became popular in the US in the mid 1920s.  America’s love affair with the polka dot began, perhaps, in 1926, when Miss America was photographed in a polka dot swimsuit. Shortly after, in 1928, Disney introduced its cartoon darling Minnie Mouse wearing a red polka dot dress and matching bow. Throughout the 1930s, polka dot dresses appeared in stores, the fabric suddenly subversive, nipped in by ribbons and accentuated with bows. In the 1950s, Marilyn Monroe was famously photographed in a polka dot bikini. And of course, the famous 1960’s hit song “Itsy Bitsy Polka Dot Bikini“.

 

 

The Polka Dot pattern is a series of circles that are evenly spaced and of the same size.  A spot print isn’t necessarily consistent in spacing or size

The Polka Dot definitely has a retro feel but also a feminine one.  The Polka Dot has mostly been used in women’s fashion but it definitely makes a statement in home decor.

Ways to decorate with Polka Dots

A nursery –

we love the fun and whimsy that polka dots add to a bedroom.  We love this accent wall – it really adds visual interest to the room without using old colour and this can easily transition into a toddler room (and a little girl’s room and a teenagers bedroom)

 

Polka Dot Furniture

try re-upholstering a simple piece of furniture with a polka dot fabric – this will add a fun element into any room and it will turn a simple piece into a statement piece.  It’s a great addition to any room! This chair is an example of a spot print but isn’t it great?!

 

 

Polka Dot drapery and window treatments

we love a patterned window treatment – it adds a nice contrast to the room against a solid wall and it’s a perfect addition to a room that doesn’t have wall space for art!

 

 

Polka Dot Pillows –

A polka dot pillow is another great way to keep a room from looking too serious.  Polka dot prints comes in all colours – so you have a lot of options! We love different sizes and scales of polka dot prints,  too. Plus polka dots are fun to mix with other prints!

 

Polka Dots in the bedroom –

Polka dot bedding can be used in so many ways on a bed.  Just the pillows, bed sheets or the duvet cover.  Mixing the polka dots with solids and other prints makes any bedroom unique.  We love this bed set in white and gold with polka dots and stripes.

 

 

There are so many fun ways to decorate with this retro print – which is your favourite?

0 comment
Share:
how-to-get-model-home-look-in-your-home

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,

0 comment
Share:
we-answer-wednesday-how-to-make-my-home

“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!

 

0 comment
Share:
home-staging-more-than-just-furniture

We have been staging homes for a number of years now and what we can tell you is that staging is more than just ‘pretty-ing’ up a place.  Making a property pretty is of course important but there are other important factors when it comes to home staging that don’t involve furniture at all.

1 – Smells.

Are you nose-blind? You might be and that’s not uncommon.  We all get used to our surroundings the warts and all and that includes the smells.  When someone comes to your home for the first time, like a buyer would, they see it all and smell it all.  So be sure to tackle those unpleasant odours.  Ask a friend or neighbour to do a smell check – can they smell the pets? mold? mildew? A professional cleaning can often make a big difference and it’s worth it!

 

2 – Repairs.

Loose or cracked tiles, leaky faucet, loose hardware, burnt out light bulbs, noisy fan, chipped paint, the list goes on…tackle that list or get a handy man who can.  When buyers come through they will take notice and that will be come the focus.

3- Upgrades/Updates.

Is your home in need of some updates? You may not know for sure and this is a great conversation to have with your agent.  They can tell you what has sold and for what price.  They can show you photos so you can see the condition of the sold property.  They can also show you this info for your market competition.  You may need to price accordingly or make some updates. But this can really determine your length of time on the market. Your agent can also let you know which updates are worth investing in and which to pass on.

 

4 – Clutter.

We all have it and we all can’t stand it but it happens.  When you sell your home you need to deal with the clutter.  Sure you know the usual – kitchen counters, desk in the office but don’t forget about the little clutter like bathroom counter surfaces, table tops, closets and even above those kitchen cabinets.  When you are selling your home – make a date or 2 or 3 or…to conquer the clutter – it’s better for you, it’s better to deal with it before you go to the new place but it’s important that the buyers don’t see it.  Short on time and can’t deal with the clutter? It’s better to have papers and other items that clutter tucked away in containers – it looks neater and tidier. Clutter sends the message that ‘this home lacks storage’, so don’t let it pile up!

 

5- Not just inner beauty.

The interior of your home is very important but so is the exterior.  Did you know that buyers often do judge a book buy it’s cover? You might be missing out on a buyer if the exterior of your property doesn’t show well.  So pay attention to the exterior.  Is it clean? Maintained? Welcoming? Well lit?

 

6 – Take out your personality.

Lots of buyers love a home with character but that doesn’t mean your character.  Remove the bold wall paint colours, family photos, collections and anything that is really representative of your personal tastes and styles – bring that to the new place.  Neutralize and depersonalize.  It might sound boring to you – but it is important, buyers need to visualize themselves in the space and a neutral palette or a clean canvas allows them to do that.  You want a home buyer not a house guest!

 

 

Be prepared for some feedback that might not be glowing – it happens to every property.  It’s not personal.  Use that feedback and discuss with your agent what you can do about it.  If you are noticing a pattern in your feedback ‘like the family room is dark’ – lighten it up with lighting or maybe paint.  Listen to the market and work with your agent.

When it comes to selling your home remember the buyer is looking for their new home, not your old home – make it shine and stand out from the crowd!

 

 

Buyers are looking for their ‘new’ home and not your ‘old’ home – so presentation is really key to get your house sold so you want move on to your next chapter with ease…

0 comment
Share:
coffee-table-styling
“I am an avid design magazine reader. I always try to mimic what I see in photos, but something I always struggle to get right is my coffee table. I love the look in magazines but I can’t seem to get it right at home. What’s the trick to styling a coffee table?”
 
 
Great Question!
This is always a tricky one because while we of course want to have a beautiful table, we also use coffee tables in a functional way. So where is the balance? Depending on what kind of coffee table you have, the options truly are endless….
 
 Photo from Domaine

Using trays is a great option! Especially for ottomans.

Since an ottoman is a fabric or leather surface, having a tray on top is a great functional additional, but also a great décor piece! Depending on the size of the tray, using beautiful hardcover books is a great décor item. Adding some greenery also adds a bit of colour to the display. If you have the space and it doesn’t look cluttered, add a beautiful candle or a bunch of candles.
 
 
Trays don’t necessarily have to only be used on an ottoman either. Using one on a solid surface is a great place to neatly have your decorative pieces together, while still leaving space for drinks etc. for your guests and family.

If your coffee table has a bottom shelf…

Don’t forget to add some decorative pieces down there. Hardcover books, magazines, and decorative accessories are great on the bottom shelf.
 
Adding vases with flowers is a classic option for a coffee table. Having beautiful fresh flowers not only look good – but smell nice too! Using a colourful vase is a great addition to the space.
 
 
 
Depending on the size of your coffee table, try adding a few lanterns. They give the table some height while also having an interesting piece as an accessory. Incorporating interesting objects are a great way to add visual interest to the space, as well as giving you and your guests a conversation starter! Bowls, vases, candles, abstract objects and even picture frames are welcome additions to a coffee table.
 

Now, the trick is to have items that are to scale with your furniture. If you are going to incorporate oversize pieces, make sure you don’t have too much stuff in addition to them.

Having a cluttered tabletop isn’t going to achieve the ‘designer look’ you’re aiming for. It’s all about the right balance.

0 comment
Share:
home-styling-tips-and-tricks

Have you ever visited a furniture store show room or model home and thought – wow, why doesn’t my home look like this?

Well it can!  Follow these home styling tips and tricks and your home will instantly look chic and polished.  The details really do matter….

1 –  Always use odd numbers in your displays –

They are more visually appealing.  The photos just below and to the right illustrate 3 items used in the display. The books (one item) all count as one object visually as that is how your eye will read the grouping. Also note coordinating colours, different textures and height – not necessary as it really depends on the style but for this shabby country chic space the texture and tones work.

2 – Items do not have to be centered on the coffee table –

If you are planning on using it, put your feet up or set down a glass, move your display off center to a corner.  It will still look great. Style and function can work hand in hand

3- Do not place anything too high on the coffee table –

People should be able to see each other across the space. A little height is nice like a beautiful orchid for instance, just don’t have anything bulky and tall

4- The edge of the rug in your living room –

Should start just under the front legs of your couch and chairs. A 5 x 8 rug works perfectly in most spaces but you can go larger depending on the size of your room.

5 –  A console table in the back of the couch  –

Should never be higher than the back of the couch (otherwise you will most likely bang your head on it when you flop down on the couch at the end of a long day).

6-  End tables should be the same height as the arms of the couch or chair –

Too low and a guest will be likely to drop their drink and too high they will bump the side of the table with the glass.


7-  Use pillow inserts and covers

So you can change the decor out seasonally. It will save you money and allow you to constantly refresh your space.

8 –  Mix and match textures and shapes for interest –

Notice the different textures in the photo above and the throw – that also counts as a layer. Plus they add great visual interest to a room and are any easy fix when you want something new and fresh

9- When layering your pillows, start with the 20 x 20 in the back then go progressively smaller –

Use more pillows in the corner of a sectional to provide more back support.

We’d love to know how these home styling tips and tricks transform the look of your home…

0 comment
Share:
how-to-style-my-fireplace-mantelhow-to-style-my-fireplace-mantel

“This winter, my fireplace has been working over time!  I love snuggling up to my fireplace on cold winter days but my mantel is a mess. I want it to look good, can you send me some easy ideas to make my fireplace mantel pretty?”

Great question!  I think a lot of people have this problem.  The mantel should really highlight and bring focus to the fireplace not be an eye sore in the room.  We see this all the time when people use the mantel as a bit of a random collect-all area or a high ‘hiding’ space that the little ones can’t reach!

A mantel isn’t the place to pile up mismatched knick knacks or to leave bare, to gather dust…

It’s an eye-level stage of sorts, and a prime spot for showing off artful accents and collected treasures. Use the fireplace’s facade as a cue to your color palette.

Then select one large item to feature–a light or open sculptural piece is best because it won’t block the other objects. Pair it with a themed collection, like a few framed family photos or a grouping of different-sized glass vases. An oversized mirror or piece of art makes an ideal backdrop.

To keep it super simple but make an impact: follow this image –  even if this more traditional style isn’t to your taste, take the principles of layering and add a modern or country twist…..

Create 3 layers of décor

Always includes layers 1 and 2.

Layer 3 is optional depending on your decorating style.

1. Start with an anchor piece

– An oversized mirror is an easy option.  It let’s light bounce around the room and it works with any decor style.  We like a piece with an interesting frame.  This image shows a dark frame which give some contrast in this very light tone-on-tone room but you could add a bold art piece that would give you the same impact

2.  The weight and height. 

This image is demonstrating formal balance, that means you have two pieces (floral arrangements) that are the same colours, size, height, scale – identical and they are on each end of the mantel.  Creating a ‘frame’ for other, smaller display items.  These pieces could be vases, tall candles or candle sticks, sculptural items…it doesn’t matter just be sure to keep the height to the sides and make sure the items fit on the mantel (you don’t want anything to hang over)

3. (Optional) Filler.

Now this can get a bit tricky…you want to fill that open space under the mirror and between the flanking vases with decor pieces.  Notice here everything is shorter, so not to block the mirror but the pieces have an airy quality – the glass candle sticks, the white planters and the silver circle pieces aren’t heavy or bulky.  We see 3 main style of items and a few votive candles that are carefully displayed

Here’s an example of a mantel with layers 1 and 2 but not 3.  Again these principles of layering can be used in all decor styles, just replace the pieces with items in your taste and style.

This country style mantel uses all 3 layers. The pops of black help anchor the space and the textural elements with the mantels itself, the greenery and the woven chargers add some warmth and the display items compliment the decor style and they relate to one another.

It important to keep scale in mind not only as the objects relate to the fireplace, but also as they relate to one another.  All of the items should overlap each other so that they feel connected to each other and act as a cohesive unit.  Think of it as a step-down effect from the tallest point in the center of the mantel to the shortest point on the outside edges.  You want to take small, gradual steps without any jarring height decreases.

Do you have a TV on your mantel but you still want to create a beautiful styled mantel?  Yes, you can!

See this image, that’s a TV anchored by 2 beautiful vases with height, texture and a pop of bright yellow.  Yellow is an excellent choice here because it is the most intense colour on the colour wheel and that means your eyes can’t help but be drawn to it.  So when the TV isn’t on, these vases stand out and look beautiful

Once you’re comfortable with the process, think about what you might want to showcase on your mantel and where these items might fit within the layers mentioned above.  Consider using a mantel to showcase art,
collectibles, seasonal decor, fresh flowers or even family heirlooms.  Then sit back and admire your work!

SHOP DECOR FOR THE FIREPLACE…

3 comments
Share:
colourful-place-settings

We love dinner parties! From the great food and wine to the fantastic company, throwing dinner parties is such a great way to enjoy food, friends and family. We know that there are a lot of aspects that contribute to a great dinner party, and having a beautiful place setting is one of them! Putting together plates, napkins, placemats and glasses is a pretty basic thing to do .. but creating a beautiful place setting is more of a challenge! A dinner party is so elegant when the table is ready when guests arrive. We know from working with our clients that sometimes incorporating colour into places in your home can be intimidating – and we know your dinner table is no different! Well, fear no more! This blog is going to show you the best places to incorporate colour into your place settings without sending you running for the hills!

 

1. Start with a place mat or charger.

This is a FANTASTIC place to incorporate colour. Most people have a set of white or ivory dishes, which is perfectly fine! White is a timeless neutral and can be dressed up or dressed down, and also goes with everything! Add a charger underneath your dinner plates. Having a set of chargers is a great investment. They don’t have to be china, all they need to be is beautiful and to your taste! Chargers can be as inexpensive as you’d like, so having a few different sets won’t cost a fortune!

 

 

If you don’t have chargers, than a place mat is another great option. Colourful place mats are a great addition to your table & don’t have to break the bank! Colourful, patterned, textured, whatever you like! This gives your table a more refined look and adds a different element.

 

 

2. Mix up your serve ware.

 
Do you have a stunning set of china getting dusty in your buffet? Bring it out! Life is too short to worry about a chipped glass or plate. These beautiful items are meant to be used. Incorporating a vintage bowl on top of your white plate and colourful china adds another layer to your table and adds interest as well. Among all that, it’s a conversation starter! You can be sure one of your guests is going to ask about the beautiful dish that is in front of them. If your concerned about breakage still, maybe the bowl is just decorative. It can be moved off the plate upon dinner being ready.
 
Do you have a set of silver that never gets touched? Bring it out! Show off these family pieces or collectables. No one sees them hiding in a cabinet and adding different elements to your table scape makes it unique and personalized!
Colourful glassware is something we are seeing a lot of these days too! Tinted wine glasses, coloured water glasses, glasses with coloured stems, be creative! There are many places to add your flair.

 3. Add a table runner or table cloth

 
Depending on the formality of your party, adding a table cloth or table runner will add another layer, and an opportunity for more colour! There are so many fun patterns and colours of table linens available. If your charger/place mats, plates and bowls are all solid colours, this is the perfect place to add some pattern! It doesn’t have to be a crazy pattern like animal print, a simple subtle pattern would be beautiful too. Depending what you like, this options are truly unlimited. Are you having a formal party? Try a beautiful damask patterned table cloth. Is this a casual dinner with friends? A geometric table runner would add interest and variety to your table.

4. The Centerpiece

 

The best place to add colour. Fresh flowers, candles, you name it! Fresh flowers come in all shapes, sizes and colours. You could do one large vase, multiple small vases, vases in colours with neutral flowers, glass vases with bright flowers, vases with multicolored flowers… whatever you like! Do your thing!

Remember – keep it simple, keep it seasonal and have a great time,

 

0 comment
Share:
12