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BEDROOMS, HOME STAGING, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How to Style a Bedroom

March 23, 2016

“How do I make my basic bedroom look more expensive?”

The bedroom is the perfect spot to kick back and relax. We aim to create a beautiful bed when we stage homes, it really makes the whole room feel calm but luxurious at the same time.

We have a few recommendations to create the ultimate bedroom retreat.

1- Clean and simple bedding.

We highly recommend plain white bedding. It is simple but timeless. it looks so fresh, bright and clean like a chic hotel room but you can also style it how ever you like.

For personal use, it is worth investing in high quality but for home staging it isn’t. Add colour and pattern with bed accessories like blankets and pillows.

2 – Layering.

We often only sleep on one pillow but when it comes to styling a bed you definitely want more pillows – it looks luxurious but it also looks like a comfortable spot to lay your head. there are a few ways to layer your pillows.

See the diagram below for some options. There is no wrong answer, it is a matter of preference. For a king size bed, you can use the same options but add a third Euro (large square pillow) and use king size pillows.

3. Texture.

We talk about texture a lot. But texture is a great way to add some softness and a touch of glamour. People love touchable fabrics and where better than a bedroom.

You want to create a room that you want to snuggle up in (whether for yourself or for a potential buyer). Think pillows and throw blankets in fur (faux) and knits.

4. Lighting.

Just like your pillows and bedding you want to layer your lighting. Think over head – a beautiful fixture really brings a bedroom to life and can be a great piece to set your decor tone. But don’t forget about bedside lighting – end tables with table lamps seems obvious but it works and when it comes to table lamps there are many fabulous choices.

Don’t have room for end tables? Try some sconces – double swing arm sconces are perfect for those who love to read at night.

5. Walls and Windows.

Some art and drapery can really complete the look of a bedroom. We love a bedroom with some art – it really is like jewelry for an outfit. It pulls it all together. Depending on the room arrangement and furniture styles, art above the end tables is a timeless and chic look but we also love an oversized piece above a headboard.

For the window this function and fashion, some soft drapery panels frame a window beautifully but you may want to add some blinds, shutters or shades to give the room more privacy.

6. Seating and storage.

You may be able to add both depending on the size of the room. It is always a nice addition to have a small seating corner in a bedroom but not all bedrooms can fit a chair – if you have room for a bench or a storage bench that can look very chic at the end of a bed.

Another great look and a practical use of furniture too is over sized end tables. when you are staging your home – you don’t want the room to look over stuffed with furniture to pick and choose pieces carefully, maybe a small chair in the corner and standard size beside tables is likely best.

What you will notice in these images is a consistent thread of layers on the bed, a soft colour palette, a mix of textures, subtle patterns (if any) and upholstered headboards.

We love a timeless and chic bedroom but since the space is yours make it truly yours and surround yourself with what you love and what you want to see in your most personal space.

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How To Decorate With a Theme

March 16, 2016

“I love the relaxed feel of the beach and I want to bring a beachy look into my space but I don’t want my home to look over the top (cheesy). How can I decorate with a theme and not go overboard? “

A theme is a great source of inspiration when it comes to home decor. But you are right, of you aren’t careful you can get carried away and the theme can take over.

If you love the beach – this is a great start – you know what you want and like!

So think about the elements of the beach – soft and tonal colours, natural materials, easy fabrics, casual and relaxed are what you will want to see in the space, so look for pieces that have those features. You don’t necessarily need ‘beach’ items like shells, photos of the beach or nautical pieces but a few carefully selected items of this ilk can really solidify your theme.

Here’s an example of a coastal inspired living room with the theme kept to a minimum.

Notice the soft tones, a few coral accents (the table and on the throw pillows), nautical stripes and a few touches of blue. Overall this space has some beach-y elements but the theme isn’t super obvious.

Here’s another example of a beach inspired living room.

We see some natural wood pieces like the show stopping chandelier and the coffee table. We also see some white washed rattan accents. there are some pops of soft blue like the sea and some beach glass accessories, too.

Here’s the other side of that space, the dining area, we see a few more beach inspired pieces like the hurricane lanterns, the sea foam upholstered chairs and some sea shell decor on the built-in.

Here’s another example of a subtle beach theme in a bedroom.

Again we do not see obvious beach decor but the inspiration is definitely there. Notice the sisal area rug it adds that natural texture. The mix of soft and easy textures on the bed and the colour tones are natural beach hues.

What really makes this room not scream ‘beach theme’ is the choice of prints in the throw pillows and drapery – the prints are quite traditional (trellis and floral) but in those tones. So again you get this timeless looking space. The canopy bed is so romantic something you would expect to see at luxurious beach resort.

If you are concerned about the longevity of the theme, keep the main elements neutral like paint, flooring, drapery and furniture – you can add in art, pillows and other accessories that embrace the theme.

When you want to decorate with a theme in mind you don’t have to be too literal. Think about your chosen theme and why it has inspired you- what are the elements you love about this theme and take it from there. If you do that, you will have a look that you love and a look that will last (a timeless look).

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HOME DECOR, TRENDS

What’s Hot in Textiles – 2016 Textile Trends

February 18, 2016

Textiles are a great way to switch up your look – this includes: drapery, pillows, bed linens, and even area rugs. There are always certain prints that are in style. Remember when we used to see chevron everywhere and on everything? Well, here’s what hot in textiles for 2016!

1- Fur has been ‘trending’ since about 2012. It has been seen in living rooms, bedrooms and even dining rooms – pillows, throws and rugs. It is incredibly versatile – it works in a modern space, contemporary, rustic – any style!

2- Jungle prints – big and bold jungle prints really add a splash of colour and fun to any space. We have also see a lot of tropical prints in wall paper, too. Not sure of this trend – try it in small doses, a pillow on your sofa in a bold jungle print can really make an impact. We love this bold pillow available on Etsy.

3 – Stonewashed – the ultimate in relaxed. Think soft texture, slightly crumpled and subtle tones – perfect for the bedroom.Check out Restoration Hardware‘s Belgian linen collections. Layer it and add some other textures too like cable knit or fur to keep the room from looking flat

4 – Velvet is really making a comeback in women’s fashion too, it’s the whole nod to the 90’s! But we will be seeing this luxurious textile in the home too. Velvet looks great in any colour but we love it in rich jewel tones like this emerald green. The texture really adds a touch of luxury to any room.

5 – Botanical print – soft and subtle and a little whimsical. This print still makes a statement, we love it layered with other prints or echoed in botanical print art (not matching prints). It works with all neutrals too

6 – Soft and low contrast Damask prints – we have seen the Damask print for a few years now in big and bold colours and black and white, so old Hollywood glam (very Kardashian – esque). We will still see the print but in lower contrast and more subtle tones.

7- Colourful Geometric prints – if this looks like a bit of a retro throwback, it is! These colour combos and geometric prints have a bit of a mod vibe but refreshed and do you see the pops of rose quartz, too?

8 – Colour Blocking – similar to the geometric print but fewer colours but still that mod look.We love this bedding set in white and soft grey with a pop of coral – it’s a great balance of male and female elements too.

9 – Japanese tie-dye : Shibori. Blue and white Japanese style tie-dye print is hot! We love this way this adds some organic looking print to this bedroom.This is fun and fresh plus we love the organic feel of this, it reminds us of your favourite jeans!

We love layering textiles of various textures and prints. Which of these is your favourite?

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TRENDS

Hot Trend for 2016 – Florals

February 5, 2016

We all know by now that the colour of the year for 2016 is Rose Quartz -” is a persuasive yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure”. We love the softness and subtle elegance of this colour….but another trend for 2016 is florals! I know, I know, did florals ever really go out of style? The answer is no. Florals are a classic print in fashion and home fashion but we will be seeing more florals this year. Many think of florals as fussy and traditional but this year expect to see florals used in a different way. A more current or modern twist!

Over sized –

When it comes to florals try and over sized print in textiles or over sized art. We love this floral art, it adds some bold colour and some softness against this white on white room decor.

Mix your prints.

To keep the look modern think about mixing in some florals with other prints. In this image, we love the floral pillow in bold colours next to the Dalmatian print drapes. It makes the space chic and sophisticated.

Mix styles.

We love the balance of taking an older or more traditional pieces and adding a modern or current textile. We love this traditional chair paired with the bright and big floral print. It updates the whole piece and adds an interesting element to the room.

On the floor.

Add a statement area rug to any room for an instant update. This area rug is fun, fresh and makes a big statement. It’s like art on the floor. Pair with a glass coffee table so the rug can be seen and add neutral furniture. This rug speak for itself.

Play with texture.

Don’t get too soft and fussy when decorating with florals. Try pairing them with hard textures like wood, metal and glass. We love the over sized floral art pieces against this concrete wall.

Florals don’t have to be fussy – try it out for yourself!

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HOME DECOR, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Teen Space

January 20, 2016

“Our basement was (and still is) the playroom but my kids are all teenagers now. I’m clearing out the toys but the room needs a makeover suitable for my teen boys and girl. The floors are covered in primary colour foam tiles and the walls have cutesy posters with ABCs and 123s. It has to be cool! Any ideas?”

It sounds like it’s time for a refresh and we love to hear that you are wanting to do that for your kids. It’s a great start to clear out the toys first – that way you can really see the amount of space that you actually have. Toys can really take up a lot of room.

Once you clear out the space completely so that you can see what you are working with. Also take a look to see if there are any small repairs needed. Ceiling tiles? Burnt out light bulbs? Any floor or wall damage? Take care of those items next.

Now let’s have fun!

We feel the room should be gender neutral because you have boys and a girl, there are lots of options. Here are some of our favourite ideas.

We love this NYC loft look!! Try adding some brick pattern wall paper to get that exposed brick look and feel.

We also love the large cityscape wall mural – pottery barn teen has some great options for wall murals ranging from music to sports to beach scenes. It looks like you have the best view money can buy.

The rest of the furniture is neutral a mix of grey and cream tones. This bed is a sofa pull out option, so this is perfect if your basement is the neighbourhood hang out (and if it looks like this it definitely will be).

To keep the basement from feeling dark be sure to add light. Pot lights are great because they are streamlined and out of the way but you can add some other task lighting, table and floor lighting just keep it simple.

We love the idea of a teen space being fun and a place for them!

Adding interactive games like pool, ping-pong, fuse ball and even a collection of board games is a great way for them to socialize with friends and family.

We also love fun art – it could be colourful, thematic or just goofy! We love the idea of signage and fun (positive) sayings!

This blackboard wall is another great addition to a teen space. It is so easy to do and the chalkboard paint comes in a selection of colours (blue, green, red, pink you name it).

We also love easy seating options like these chairs or even bean bag chairs. They are casual and comfortable and easy to move around.

If the space will be for everyone – find a place for everything!

This small space (this is actually a garage) has seating, a home gym and a TV area.

We also love how the decor is neutral and cool for everyone. Add some great pillows to your neutral sofa. Looking for some fun pillows?

We love the selection at www.denydesigns.com they have so many colours, prints, saying and you can even customize your own pillow!

When it comes to a teen space, you can still play with colours but we suggest staying away from your primary tones like red, blue and yellow and playing with a more sophisticated tone like navy or grey and then adding a splash of fun colours like green and orange, turquoise and yellow, turquoise and orange, for example.

Fill the room with things they like – music, movies, sports and more…Add some fun prints and graphics too!

Be sure to think of them and what they need (and maybe what you would like them to have as well).

Shelving for board games, video games and some decor?

TV for movies and video games?

A gym area?

Desk space?

A fridge or even a small kitchen space ?

Pool table or other large games?

Speakers for music and movies?

Electric fireplace (some basements are chilly)?

There are so many options for a basement space for your teens but be prepared to be THE neighbourhood hang out!

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BEDROOMS, HOME DECOR

Small Bedrooms with Big Style

September 10, 2015

When it comes to decorating your bedroom, the possibilities are really endless. It is your own private retreat from the rest of the world – so it really is YOUR space! This is the perfect blank canvas to express your personal style and surround yourself with what you love!

Forget the ‘rules’ and go for it! Colour, pattern, print, texture…all at once, why not?

Not sure what do to? Here are some ideas to get you started

1. ACCENT WALL –

This can be as bold or as subtle as you like. It’s up to you. An accent wall in the bedroom is best located where the headboard will be – for maximum impact. Wallpaper is a great option but paint is too. We love the softness of a understated accent wall. This is a great example of a tone on tone bedroom with a romantic touch

But you can also be bold and expressive with deep or bright colours and print. this deep Sapphire blue painted accent wall adds some punch to the room

Another great way to make a statement on your headboard wall is with a gallery wall. A collection of art, photos and more is so special and personal and ideal for a bedroom. What’s great about the gallery wall in this room is the mix of frames – the white frames blend in with the wall colour so you don’t get a cluttered look.

2 – OVER SIZED ART

– in any space adds instant luxury and make a room look and feel expensive. Like an accent wall it can be bold or subtle and it makes impact but you don’t need the commitment of paint or wallpaper.

3 – SIMPLE YET STYLISH BEDDING

– it never goes out of style so you could invest (you will notice a difference in feel and quality). Plain white has that boutique hotel look but if that’s too simple for you opt for a clean and crisp design (stripe, chevron or a clean floral). If you like a little more colour and pattern in your bedding opt for a throw blanket or quilt at the foot at the bed and some throw pillows.

4 – LIGHTING

– make a statement with some amazing lighting. A chandelier over the bed is a great touch but if you don’t have that ability try some sconces (perfect for reading and for smaller bedrooms) or some incredible table lamps. Even with recessed lighting you will want to bedside lighting for reading and other tasks. Layering your light allows more light in the room.

5 – INCREDIBLE HEADBOARD

– a headboard is another great way to make a statement and express your personal style. We are seeing over sized, tufted, printed, leather, wing back, nailheads, reclaimed barn wood and so many more. The headboard is a great focal point in the room and you can get so creative with it.

6 – FLANKING MIRRORS AND ART

– this adds that instant ‘designer look’ to your bedroom. By flanking either matching mirrors or coordinating art work on either side of the bed above the bedside tables, you get an elevated look. Plus it helps visually widen the room.

7 – STORAGE WITH STYLE

– we all need storage in our bedrooms but in a smaller bedroom storage is a must. Since your storage pieces will be on display be sure to find attractive ones – a beautiful jewelry box, a dish for everyday jewelry pieces, hat boxes for belts and scarves, end tables with a drawer and an open space for reading materials are some great ideas. Under the bed is a great space for luggage or clear plastic bins for seasonal items – hide that area with a bed skirt.

8 – ACCESSORIES

– have a way of pulling a room together. Accessories also are a great way to show off your taste, talents and interest. You don’t want to go over board but a few well placed accessories can go a long way! We love basics like plants, candles and photo frames but look for cool items that speak to you. We also love a great area rug to add some softness to the room plus you can get really creative with colour, pattern and texture.

No matter the size of your bedroom, it should be your oasis to escape from it all!

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HOME DECOR, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Monochromatic Decorating At Home

August 5, 2015

“I don’t love bright colour. I know lots of people love colour in their space but it’s just not for me. How can I make my space look great without big, bold colour? I don’t want it to look boring.”

Colour can do a lot for a space and we often tell clients to think – colour, pattern, texture and shine as the 4 key elements in a space to keep it visually interesting. But not everyone loves colours and that’s OK. You can definitely have a chic pace with little to no colour but be sure to really play up the other 3 elements (pattern, texture and shine). You will also want to play with varying shades of your chosen hue – it’s called ‘monochromatic’ decor.

Monochromatic decorating consists of only one color. At first, this may sound like monochromatic is another word for boring, but it’s quite the contrary. Decorating in a monochromatic color scheme relies on using various tones, textures, and patterns to build a beautiful space. It requires you to be more creative and use the basics
of great design.

What’s really great about monochromatic is that it usually results in a very calming and soothing space. So for someone with a hectic and fast paced work schedule, a monochromatic palette to come home to everyday could be very beneficial. Monochromatic decor tends to look and feel very high-end and luxurious with a touch of glam and elegance.

Here are some examples of what you can use as a guide for monochromatic or tone-on-tone decorating.

So this living room is a great example of monochromatic with warm grey tones. there is some contrast but it’s not very high but there are a number of warm grey tones – the walls, drapes, art, pillows, carpet and they are all different and they look incredible together. There is a lot of pattern in this space – the pillows, the ottomans, the rug and even the walls. The pillows ad the biggest punch due to the darker warm grey tone and the pattern. We also see a lot of shine with the glass accents like the lamps, decor pieces and the coffee table. The small gold accents really add the glam and elegance to this room. This room is timeless, chic and soothing.

This bedroom is another example of monochromatic decorating. Again what you will notice is the low contrast with the warm grey tones and the white tones. There is a lot of layers which add volume and a level of richness. We have lots of soft textures in this room – wood, and lots of textiles. A classic palette, gorgeous bedding and a relaxing bedroom. Neutrals have never been so far from dull. This bedroom has an understated elegance that is full of lovely features from the distressed beams in a white wash finish and the over sized mirror with antique details.

Another bedroom with lot of layering and mixing of patterns in a cool blueish-grey colour palette. The dark wood accents add some depth and contrast to the space as well. This bedroom feels like an upscale hotel room. The grey-blue palette is clean and sophisticated, focusing on luxurious textures such as the headboard and the wood accents in furniture like the bench at the foot of the bed add interest.

What you will notice in monochromatic decor is that the tones we see most often are neutrals, mainly grey, taupe and beige – they are easily to work with, there are a lot of tones and they are soothing and with the right mix of art, textures and accessories you get instant luxury. You can certainly have a tone on tone space in a deeper or bolder colour but those deeper richer tones are probably best used as a touch of contrast or an accent.

What really keeps monochromatic decorating from being boring is the combination of texture, pattern and shine but also the layering. Layering pillows of different textures and tone on a sofa or bed really adds depth and luxury to a room. But you can add depth with art and accessories, too. We also love layering lighting – so have different types of lighting in one room.

So to keep your space from being dull and boring, find a main colour you like and use that as your base. Be sure to add some soft contrast so add some lighter tone pieces (in white or off white) and some darker pieces (a dark wood accent or a darker shade of your chosen colour). Be sure to have lots of varied texture (so soft and hard), lots of layers using texture and/or some pattern – plus a bit of shine really brings instant elegance – glass lamps or a glass coffee table are easy choices.

Keep your home decor calm and carry on….

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, TRENDS

How to Get The Look: Modern Country

July 29, 2015

Country decorating has come a long way. It has always been a popular home decorating style but it has really changed in recent years. In the past this has included such elements of the style as handmade items, collections, and rustic charm. While country style will always epitomize home and warmth, its time to bring country design into the modern era. We call this decorating style “Modern Country“. Modern country is still charming, and rustic but with some clean lines and cool colour palettes it has a ‘cooler’ vibe. If you love that laid back rustic style with a modern edge – better know as Modern Country, here’s how to get it.

Clean it up

Traditional country decorating has been often accused of being “cluttered”. Modern country decorating is anything but! So it’s time to seriously edit and pack away all those little things that don’t contribute to the overall design scheme. Don’t go overboard though, country is about home and family, so you don’t want to eliminate everything that’s personal. Create a box of decorative items to store, and rotate favorite accents with the seasons.

Choose a simple and clean color scheme

Update your country decorating look with a more modern color scheme. Pick one color, then try combining it with white or neutrals for a stylish look that isn’t dated, and doesn’t cause confusion for the eye. Add textures to give the room great interest and contrast. Keep patterns to a minimum, and try to incorporate some of the new classics or a modern floral that uses white and one color in its design. Think tone-on-tone for a soothing look in the space. We like a great light neutral on the walls and then for accessories layers of soft greys, taupes even dried herb tones look great with this style.

Choose your inspiration

Choosing your inspiration for the modern country decorating look is kind of like choosing a theme. But instead of the cutesy country themes of the past are passe, you are choosing an inspiration that creates a feeling. Gone are the roosters and instead think of a theme inspired by the mountains in Colorado, or the high country of Santa Fe.

You can actually picture the “feeling” of the room just by those descriptive words, and that’s what will give you guidance and keep you on track. Look through photos for inspiration, that will help you stay on track but again, don’t go over board! You don’t want a theme room like “this the dairy farm room” take what you love about the feel of the country and incorporate that in the space.

Light the way

One of the fastest ways to update an outdated decorating shame is to add a modern lighting fixture. This works great with the “Modern Country” as they compliment each other well. Think West Elm, Restoration Hardware or Pottery Barn.

Texture

So important in this look! When it comes to country decor it’s really about comfort and ease, so texture can really help with that. Think canvas, wool, distressed denim, flannel, distressed leather and mixing it all up on a sofa. Be sure to add other textures too like reclaimed wood, stone and brick for another layer of texture. Elements of nature are another great way to add texture to your space.

Accessorize

The “more is more” traditional country decorating look of the past is just that…it’s in the past. Choose a few great pieces to display at a time. Mix and match with other styles, offering interest and contrast, and bringing more attention to your beloved possessions. If you have a collection, or want to showcase Grandmas quilt, then showcase it. But display it gallery style and give each piece importance. Don’t just use something for the sake of having something fill a space. Treat the things you love like art.

Another great way to make a country piece look more current is framing your art. So a country landscape with a clean white over sized matte and black frame is easy and looks clean and modern.

Look for country piece like large milk jugs, butter churners, pickle jars, mason jars etc…they add great character and some texture to the space and of course, they have that country feel

Look for inexpensive antiques that can be used to create a unique wall collection such as postcards or antique flatware. Add items from nature, but be selective. Leave some space around your treasures for the eye to rest. If a wall or a room is cluttered no one can focus on your beautiful pieces – art or artifacts. So keep it simple that’s really important in modern country decor.

Relax

Above all, relax and enjoy the creative process. There are no rules in decorating that can’t be broken. Modern Country Decorating is a fantastic way to take a beloved home decorating style of the past, and give it a current twist.

Modern country might sound contradictory but it is a beautiful blend of relaxed and styled decor. We hope you love this look as much as we do!

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HOME STYLING, TRENDS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – 9 Gallery Wall Ideas

June 17, 2015

“I love the look of gallery walls. I’m in the process of creating one in my own home right now but I want to add more than just photos. What are some suggestions for adding other pieces to the display?”

Great question! Creating a gallery wall is a fabulous way to personalize your space to exactly what you want. Since when you are decorating a wall, pretty well anything goes, there are really no rules!

There are lots of great options for adding unique pieces!

1. Taxidermy Heads

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

2. Mirrors

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

3. Letters

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

4. Plates

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

5. Decorative Frames

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

6. Wreath

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

7. Clocks

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

8. Art

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

9. Wall Decals

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

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

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

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HOME STYLING, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How do I style my coffee table?

May 20, 2015

“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.

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