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interior design

HOME DECOR, HOME DESIGN, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS

From Trendy to Timeless: How to Design Interiors That Last

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Instead of following whatever trendy and kooky interior design idea is out there, consider going with timeless interior design ideas, as they’re reliable and still look good no matter what. That’s why, in this article, we’ll be covering and recommending a few interior design ideas that have always been attractive and worth applying to your home.

Why create a timeless interior design?

It’s easy to find current interior design trends and think about applying them to your home. However, there are many reasons why some interior designs have moved way past being trendy and have become classics. There are also great reasons why you might choose these timeless designs over whatever stylish designs are these days.

For one reason: when you incorporate classic elements, neutral color palettes, and quality materials, a timeless design ensures longevity and avoids frequent renovations or updates.

A timeless interior design also adds value to a property. Potential buyers or renters are often attracted to spaces that exude elegance and sophistication without appearing dated. This appearance can lead to increased resale value or higher rental rates.

Furthermore, a timeless interior design promotes functionality and versatility. It allows for easy personalization through interchangeable accessories or furnishings, accommodating changing preferences or lifestyles without requiring a complete overhaul.

Although you aren’t required to go with a classic home interior design, that doesn’t mean that the benefits of such a design for your home won’t be present if you go with them.

Now that you know why it’s worth pursuing, here are some interior design ideas worth applying due to their timelessness.

Photo by Spacejoy on Unsplash

Stick to a neutral color palette

The color palette of your home interiors has a massive effect on how timeless and classic your home interiors are. That’s why there are many tips on choosing the color of your home that you can apply.

If your primary purpose is to get a non-offensive and enduring color palette for your home, that’s stylish no matter the year. Then, a neutral color palette is critical.

You can easily switch out accessories or accents with a neutral base without overhauling the entire design. If you ever feel like switching things up with your decor, your neutral color palette will be the perfect blank canvas for it any time.

Neutral color palettes also have the power to enhance natural light within a room. Lighter shades absorb and reflect light more effectively throughout any room, making your interior feel brighter and more spacious. Additionally, neutral colors have broad appeal, which can be advantageous if you sell or rent your property.

Choose an open floor plan

An open floor plan is a modern trend turned classic interior design for many homes that will surely be amazing to live in even in the future. However, one thing about it is that it can quickly turn messy or chaotic if you don’t plan.

You can work with an architect with the help of collaboration software for architects to help create an open floor plan that fits your desires. Working with an architect to design an open floor plan while maintaining zones and boundaries is vital to an open floor plan that doesn’t feel too chaotic daily.

An open floor plan has better connectivity within your living spaces. Whether entertaining guests or spending time with family, having an unobstructed view across different areas allows for easy interaction and fosters a sense of togetherness.

It’s also a great choice if you’re working with limited space so that it feels more open and not like it’s constricting or limiting you.

Choose natural materials

Photo by Ksenia Chernaya

Choosing the suitable materials for your home also affects the design timelessness of the house you own. With that in mind, nothing beats using the naturally available materials to make up the interior of your home to achieve that classic look that looks good no matter when.

The durability of natural materials is worth noting, and why they’re a worthy addition to your home. Unlike synthetic alternatives, raw materials stand the test of time. They can withstand natural wear and tear and absorb impact or damage well.

In addition to durability, natural materials also add a feeling of warmth to your space. Whether it’s hardwood floors, stone countertops, or leather furniture, these elements add a touch of elegance and sophistication that is stylish without feeling cold, intimidating, or lifeless.

Also, if you do your due diligence, you can find natural material suppliers that make them through sustainable practices and sources.

Add symmetry

Symmetry in design aesthetics ensures a home with a cohesive and organized space. They establish a clear focal point so that looking at your interior’s design isn’t confusing and upsetting. That way, your home feels less like a museum and more like a house someone has lived in comfortably.

Additionally, symmetrical designs will always appeal to the eye regardless of trends. Whether you prefer a traditional or modern aesthetic, incorporating symmetry will add a touch of sophistication that withstands changing fashions.

Invest in high-quality pieces

If you add decorative pieces to your home, at the very least, make sure they’re high-quality additions. Whether it could be as significant as pieces of furniture or some minute decorative materials like a picture frame, having high-quality components will ensure that you love and enjoy every piece and part of your home.

Mix old and new

Just because you’re not following the current interior design trends doesn’t mean your home has to feel outdated. It’s all about finding the balance between the old and the new.

For example, don’t hesitate to add innovative technology into your home while still ensuring that you incorporate design elements that you won’t regret adding over the years. That mix of old and new will create a comfortable home that still fulfills modern needs and wants.

Pick marble counters

Photo by Max Rahubovskiy

You can choose from different kinds of countertops for your home, but if you want one whose style has been in many homes over the years, then marble is worth considering.

Even if the rest of your home or kitchen has a simplistic design, the natural pattern of a marble countertop can serve as a visual interest in the kitchen or dining area. However, be careful, as certain materials can still stain marble countertops.

Consider built-in shelving

Bookshelves that sink into the walls instead of getting separate furnishings are a great way to avoid using your floor space while still having storage space. Built-in shelving can be a place to store books, picture frames, and other decorative items, and it’s also great to look at as a whole in a room.

Conclusion

These interior design ideas are timeless and look good no matter what theme you go with for your home. Therefore, next time you’re either doing an interior design overhaul or are just starting, consider following these tips to get you a home interior you’re proud to have.

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HOME DESIGN

8 Unique Ideas for Interior Design Inspiration

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Interior design can completely transform a room – and a home.

As we’ve seen over the past year, the way we interact with our living spaces has changed drastically. Bedrooms have become interactive spaces and our houses have become almost like offices as we both live and work at home. Interior design is more valued than ever.

In planning your interior design project, you might be stuck for home redesign ideas. Planning changes to your home’s interior can be daunting and intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be.

We’ve created a list of unique interior design inspirations that will have you planning the renovations of your life. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think.

1. Nature-inspired Design

Nature-inspired interior design is an evergreen style, always in step with the latest trends while staying relevant and classic. It brings the outdoors inside, taking inspiration from the colors, textures, and shapes found in nature.

Varying shades of green, natural materials such as wood, and visual elements like artworks of natural landscapes or a printed wall mural of a waterfall can all be used to achieve this effect. Additionally, elements like hanging plants, potted greenery, terrariums, and vibrant wallpapers featuring a plethora of leaves and foliage are a great way to introduce this style into your home.

2. Vintage and Retro Revival

One of the most intriguing and inspiring concepts when it comes to interior design is vintage and retro revival. This theme, when blended with contemporary design elements can create unique and interesting interior spaces. Pulling inspiration from classic films, fashion, and pop culture icons from the past to the present day can create a timeless and tasteful style.

Retaining vintage fixtures, repurposing furniture, and giving worn pieces a fresh look to become the accent within the room will add a level of texture and charm to the space. Integrating retro items from different eras with modern accents can become an eclectic yet sophisticated way to combine the different aspects of interior design.

3. Industrial Chic

Industrial Chic can range from pairing exposed pipework with clean modern lines to including worn woods, metal fixtures, and industrial-style lighting. Metal and concrete are always popular choices, especially when choosing industrial chic for loft-style apartments.

Iron is a great material choice, and when combined with materials like brick and glass, they create a beautiful balance of modern and industrial styles. Throwing in some vintage machinery or furniture adds a unique industrial twist, and contrasting textures can bring it all together.

For instance, luxurious velvet armchairs contrasted with a rusted filing cabinet with Edison bulbs as lighting. Finally, don’t forget to add some greenery to soften up the atmosphere – giving it a modern industrial feel.

4. Global Influences

Unique ideas can be found by exploring colors, patterns, textures, and objects from around the world. Look to regions and cultures around the world to draw on their traditional techniques of:

  • furniture making
  • decorative arts
  • textiles
  • dielectrics

One unique idea might be creating a space with Japanese-inspired minimalism, complete with neutral-toned walls and natural wood.

Or, be inspired by fabrics and colors found in Turkish or Indian homes and create a space with jewel-toned furniture, natural fiber rugs, and metallic accents. Incorporate hand-crafted objects from all points of the globe, like African stools, Chinese porcelain, a Mexican Talavera tile backsplash, carved Thai statues, and Indonesian baskets, among other pieces.

5. Artistic Expression

Taking inspiration from artistic expression can provide a great foundation. Bold influences from modern art and abstract expressionism offer a powerful palette for interior designers to make creative statement pieces and fill oversized wall spaces with gorgeous imagery. To create an artistic expression in interior design, think outside the box with:

  • shapes
  • colors
  • textures

These can bring a room to life with bold and vivid details. Look for art pieces that speak to you, and layer varying levels of brightness with pastels and deep colors to create a space that feels vibrant and alive.

6. Sustainable Design

Sustainable interior design combines a beautiful aesthetic with the concept of creating eco-friendly living environments. Sustainable design encourages:

  • conservation of resources
  • sustainability of materials
  • energy efficient lifestyle

It focuses on responsible use of recycled or sustainable materials, energy efficiency, and a design that respects and honors nature. To inspire interior design projects, consider using natural elements such as:

  • wood
  • stone
  • plants

These are useful to create an inviting and earth-friendly atmosphere. Low-emitting paints, wools, natural dyes, and cotton are other sustainable materials that can be used to create unique vibes. 

7. Fusion of Styles

Combining traditional and modern elements to create a space is a great way to create interesting visuals and push the boundaries of creativity. For example, a traditional farmhouse dining table paired with a modern light fixture and accent wall can easily bring together a rustic and classic style.

Another example would be incorporating a mid-century modern chair with a vintage dresser in the same room. Adding different pieces from different eras allows for a unique and creative style to be created. This of which stands out from the usual décor. 

8. Minimalist Elegance

Minimalist elegance is a sophisticated form of interior design that creates a simple and uncluttered atmosphere. Using sleek, geometric lines, muted colors, and smartly placed accents, minimalism in interior design allows the architecture to take center stage while still providing unique and inspirational touches.

For example, small details like gold wall mirrors or velvet cushioned chairs can serve as delightful focal points within the overall interior design plan. A space can take on a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere. This is achieved by using:

  • a color palette of neutral colors
  • plants
  • wood accents
  • metallic finishes

Natural light can also bring elegance to a space, or an unexpected color can serve as a vibrant focal point. Taking risks with furniture, lighting fixtures, and wall décor can add unexpected elements to a minimalist design and make it truly unique.

Whether you’re up for a cozy redesign or intend to prepare your home for a home swap or exchange like what you can find in this link, make sure to incorporate this home décor inspiration.

Consider These Unique Ideas for Interior Design Inspiration

Interior design inspiration can come from many places – take the time to explore these unique ideas to find that special, individual touch for your home. Don’t forget to take into account your style when making your decisions.

With these tips, you are sure to find the inspiration you need! If you need more help, be sure to check out other interior design inspiration websites.

Visit our blog for more articles.

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HOME DECOR, HOME DESIGN, REAL ESTATE

Nantucket vs. Cape Cod: What’s Your Coastal Style?

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Coastal New England offers some of the most beautiful properties in the country. Who wouldn’t want to live on a gorgeous coastal area? There is so much to see and explore in these areas. Those who are attempting to decide between Cape Cod and Nantucket should keep reading so they can make the right decision when deciding where to purchase a home. 

Nantucket and Cape Cod Offer Vibrant Lifestyle

To get more information about life in these two coastal regions, it is important to research carefully. Although one must travel through Cape Cod to get to Nantucket, the two areas are entirely different. Yes, they both offer beautiful beaches, but each of these areas is unique. Cape Cod is more of a bustling metropolis, while Nantucket is full of cobblestone streets and a more laid-back atmosphere.  Neither is better than the other, but they each appeal to different people.

Nantucket Vs. Cape Cod

Understanding how these two coastal communities differ is important for anyone who is considering moving to one of these areas of New England. These areas both offer amazing views, beautiful homes, and plenty of amenities to keep people of all ages happy. By continuing to read further, individuals can learn everything they need to know about these two vastly different coastal experiences. 

Quiet Or Hustle and Bustle?

One of the biggest differences between the two is one offers a quieter setting while the other region is bursting with noise. Cape Cod is filled with tourist attractions, restaurants, and big-name retailers. Many travelers come in and out of Cape Cod, especially during the summer season. Some people love being in on the action, while others require a quieter place to live. 

While Nantucket gets busier in the summer, when tourists come in, it is very quiet the rest of the year. Nantucket has a much more laid-back atmosphere that is ideal for people who enjoy peace and quiet. 

Size Matters

Cape Cod is much bigger than Nantucket. While Cape Cod is 339 miles long, Nantucket is only 100 miles in area. Cape Cod boasts of over 216,000 residents, while Nantucket has a population that hovers around 10,000. When it comes to choosing between the two, the decision depends on preference. 

Coastal Living Is Paradise

No matter which New England region a person chooses, life is grand. Each beautiful coastal community offers its own charms that are enjoyable for residents all year long. When choosing between the two, it is important individuals consider their needs and style of living. It is wise for individuals to visit both areas as a tourist first so they can determine which area is going to appeal to their lifestyle the most. 

Those who love the beach will find both areas to be perfect for their needs. There is just something so special about living in a coastal town, whether it is bigger like Cape Cod or smaller like Nantucket. 

Conclusion

Those who have been considering purchasing a coastal home have options in both Nantucket and Cape Cod. Both areas offer a distinctive impression of east coast life that cannot be forgotten. 

No matter which region a person chooses, getting help from an agent will assist them in finding the property of their dreams. A beautiful new home is waiting for you on whichever community you choose. Get help from an agent and make the process of choosing a new home much more exciting. 

SHOP EAST COAST STYLE…

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HOME DESIGN, home renovation

A Designer vs an Architect?

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When a person is about to renovate a home, build a new home, or just redecorate the home they are living in or just purchased, the question often comes up about hiring an architect or an interior designer. In some cases an architect is the right choice, in others, an interior designer is the best one to hire, and in other cases, the homeowner or commercial building owner should hire both. It is important when taking on a large renovation or building project to hire the right team of professionals.

What Does An Interior Designer Do?

An interior designer will have a college degree in interior design where they studied space planning, interior materials, rendering designs and making floor plans, and every aspect of interior design. Where an architect designs the building or home structure and details, the interior designer works with the interior spaces of a building once it is constructed. Interior designers can work with a home builder, an architectural office, or residential and commercial design companies. They can also work for retail home decorating stores or building supply centers. There are interior designers who work independently or have their own interior design companies.

Interior designers can work for design supply companies that people call for carpeting services, interior finishes, and design services. These companies can sell flooring, cabinetry, countertops, window coverings, wall coverings, and more. When a company like this offers design center services, customers get better service and results.

Some of the services designers offer include:

·         Interior designers can offer space planning for homes, hotels, commercial buildings, offices, hospitals, and public buildings.

·         Designers will meet with clients to learn their needs for the space and then create floor plans and renderings of designs for the interior space that create function and beauty.

·         Designers will also cost out the design plan for clients and submit a bid for the materials and labor.

·         Once the client approves the design, materials, and cost of the project, the designer will oversee the work of creating the finished design.

·         A designer can create a space by creative use of paint, fabrics, and furnishings. Other jobs require building renovation or alterations that require a builder or construction contractor to be hired and supervised by the designer before the finishes are installed.

·         Designers must create an interior space that is functional, beautiful and meets all building codes for safety.

·         Interior designers must have both aesthetic design skills and the ability to plan the best use of any space.

·         Designers must have training and knowledge of architecture, construction, design, sustainability, building codes, and environmentally friendly practices.

What Does an Architect Do?

Architects handle large building projects from the ground up from planning through construction and finishes. They have trained in college for engineering, design theory, and project management. They are trained to design a project, create blueprints and mechanical drawings, cost out the project, solicit bids, manage the building project, choose the contractors, subcontractors, and other professionals, oversee the work, control the money, and solve complex building design problems.

An architect’s services come at a cost and the more involved with a project you want them, the more the cost will be. But the cost is worth it when a building is built correctly and is functional and beautiful. The larger the building project, the more important it is to hire a good architect. An architect can visualize building ideas three-dimensionally. This is important in creating a building that is aesthetically balanced and attractive as well as structurally sound and functional.

Look for the initials AIA after the architect’s name because this means they belong to the American Institute of Architects. This professional organization requires its members to meet high professional standards. Each state has a process for licensing architects who meet their professional standards.

When Should You Hire an Architect or an Interior Designer, or Both?

A residing factor in hiring an architect is the size of the job. If you are building a new home, you need an architect. If you are doing a large renovation that includes removing walls, impacting the footprint of the house with an addition, changing the height or grade of the home, you need an architect. If you are moving staircases or installing a new kitchen or bath, you may need an architect.

An architect is mainly needed for the big structural changes and the exterior or shell of the building. They basically design and build the structure of a building. The interior designer can work with an architect in choosing building features such as windows, doors, finishes. But, their main responsibility is with the interior of the building once it is constructed. They add the finishing touches and the aesthetics.

If you are working with an existing structure and need interior design help, then you need an interior designer. When an existing structure needs a professional to choose and place finishes, floor covering, artwork, furniture, window treatments, and accessories to make the space functional, safe, and attractive, an interior designer is needed.

Then, there are large building and renovation projects of both residential and commercial buildings that will benefit from hiring both an architect for the structural design and concerns and an interior designer for the interior decoration and finishes. Since interior designers and architects have different skill sets, they often work together from the beginning of a large project.

Hiring both professionals does not mean twice the cost. A well-planned project will have a division of responsibilities for the architect and the interior designer. When the project is complete and the building owner has the aesthetics and functionality of both the building structure and the interiors they want, the cost of hiring these professionals will be well worth the investment.

It is important to hire the correct professionals for the job size and complexity. If the home needs an interior designer but does not involve structural changes, then pass on the architect. But when structural changes are being planned, don’t hesitate to consult an architect.

SHOP FAVOURITES…

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS

7 secrets from an interior designer

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In the digital age, it’s easier than ever to design a well-organized, cohesive decor scheme. With some internet inspiration and a few simple guidelines, you can make your home look like you hired an interior designer.

Here are some helpful tips to guide the process.

Plan Ahead

One of the key elements of stunning interior design is planning out the various components before getting started. You can do this by spending an afternoon looking at design magazines and clipping images that inspire you. You can also use tools like Pinterest to create a vision board. 

Outlining the design features of your room will also help you develop a shopping list and budget. Give yourself time to shop around and compare prices. 

Choose Statement Pieces

Generally speaking, an interior designer will incorporate one or two statement pieces into each room. These pieces become the focal point of the design scheme with the room working around it. A statement piece could be anything from an ultra-modern couch to an elaborate chandelier. 

Remember that statement pieces are meant to stand out, rather than to blend into the background, so leave your preconceived notions about matching at the door. While the piece should fit into the overall decor, use a pattern, shape, or color contrast to help it stand out.

Keep the Layout Simple 

When it comes to interior design, less is more. Having too much in one area makes the room look smaller and cluttered. Everything in your room should be functional as well as fashionable.

Take some time to declutter and experiment with the room layout. You can use a room planning app to see how everything will fit before making any significant changes.

Focus on the Finer Details

It’s the finer details that make the most impact when trying to make your home look professionally designed. For example, adding custom hardware to RTA cabinets in the kitchen completely changes the look of the room (check out RTA Cabinet Reviews). In a living room, the pattern on throw pillows can take the room from mediocre to luxurious. It’s all about the little touches.

Build Over Time

Don’t feel as though you need to handle your design project all at once. You can make small changes over time to fit your budgetary needs and overall vision. This approach is great if you’re waiting to find that perfect finishing piece for your room as well.

Building over time will also help you create a unique look as trends continue to change. By doing so, your room will look less cookie-cutter and more professionally planned. 

Use a Color Wheel

A color wheel is both the simple and most powerful tool to have on hand when creating a designer-inspired room. This device can help you find contrasting and complementary colors that you might not have considered. If you have a favorite color in mind, this tool can help you build around it without risking clashing or being too matchy.

There are plenty of apps and websites online that replace the handheld color wheel, and can even print paint codes for you to take to your preferred paint store. 

Prioritize Lighting

Lighting is the element that brings a room to life. Don’t just focus on the colors and patterns; consider how you’ll set the ambiance. Getting as much natural light as possible is a must. Many designers will use mirrors and reflective surfaces to improve light distribution.

Light fixtures also play into the overall look of a room. Choosing warm lighting that reduces hard shadows can make the room look more welcoming.

With these tips, you can create a house that looks as though it was put together by an interior designer. Get organized, be creative, and add a unique flair that sets it apart.

SHOP HOME DECOR….

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OUR FAVOURITES

10 Most Popular Posts from 2017

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Rounding up our most popular posts from 2017…

Thank you so much for joining us this year on our design, decorating and home staging adventures – the one year anniversary of this ‘new’ blog is coming up and to celebrate we are doing so with a round up of our most popular posts of the past year. We love and appreciate all of your comments, likes and feedback! We hope that our projects have inspired you in some way and we look forward to sharing even more in this coming year!

Here’s our 10 most popular posts from 2017

10. In July, we joined the $100 room challenge…Kristi designed a homework station just before her children headed back to school.  The final results were super cute and we are so happy you liked them, too. Week 4: $100 Room challenge – Homework Station

9. In June, a project we had been working on since February was finally coming to a close. After all of the interior and exterior colour and material selections it was time to style this model townhome.  The look was clean and fresh with lots of great textures and neutrals. a mix of modern and industrial – the final results were fabulous. Take the tour…Home Tour: Stittsville Walk

 

8. Home staging is a MUST (but if you have been reading our blog at all, you already know that). There are some simple ‘props’ that you can use to spruce up the look of your home and make it more attractive.  We love to share home staging tips with you! 6 Best Props to Stage Your Home

 

7. What we are seeing every year is these new ‘hybrid’ styles of interior decor that are emerging each and every year.  Scandinavian design has come back into fashion in a huge way but Industrial is still here – so what happened? The birth of Scandi-Industrial and it is a very popular look.  Let us explain this ‘new’ look. What is Scandi-Industrial Home Decor Style? 

 

6. Why is Farmhouse style so popular? Another look that was huge in 2017 and continues to be popular is Farmhouse style.  We are both big fans but we still are able to put our own spin on the farmhouse look.  If you ever wondered why this look was so popular – we did too!

5. We love home decor – it’s our passion but for some they just want a place that looks great and they don’t know quite where to start – that’s where we come in with our tips on what every living room needs….10 Things Every Living Room Needs

 

4. The kitchen is the heart of any home so it has to look good! We love the classic feel and the versatility of the white shaker kitchen – you can give this staple a farmhouse feel or a contemporary look it all depends on what you pair it with.  Why the White Shaker Kitchen will Never be Out!

 

3. Millennial Pink had a big moment in 2017 and we sure loved it! Maddie certainly did – she certainly embraced the trend in her own home and we had to share some of our favourite rooms and decor pieces that celebrated the year of millennial pink. Millennial Pink Inspiration

2. You know that red and black checkered plaid that everyone seems to be rocking these days? Did you know it is called ‘Buffalo Check’? We love this winter inspired print in clothing but also in the home…make those cold and snowy winter days at home more inviting with this plaid. Decorating with Buffalo Check

 

and the number one post from 2017….The 8 Biggest Home Staging Mistakes to Avoid …home staging is a MUST (as you all know) but there are times when we can forget the basics of home staging and presentation. If you are selling your home – be sure to avoid these mistakes!

We hope you enjoy the little trip down memory lane with us and we will have even more to share in the up coming year. Cheers!

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HOME DECOR, HOME TOUR

Home Tour : Champagne Avenue Condo

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Take the home tour of this Champagne Avenue condo!

The condo …

It’s always fun to start with a blank canvas – the couple moving into this condo did not have any furniture – so we had a lot of planning to do and of course, a budget to work within. We had 2 bedrooms and an open concept living room space with a kitchen. The colour palette of this condo is a blend of white and shades of grey, so very ‘on trend’ and great neutrals to work with!

The look…

This space was a fun one that really challenged us – why? Well, the couple had a totally empty condo with some pretty contemporary finishes like the high gloss white kitchen, the grey glass tile back splash, all white walls, grey floors plus tons of huge windows.  But their style is more rustic meets industrial … they love reclaimed wood, Industrial lighting, lots of texture and not a lot of colour.  We had to bring all of these styles together in this small-ish space and although a blank canvas is fun it can be hard to know where exactly to start. We started with the master bedroom – not a huge room but it was a great place to start with the furniture and of course the styling. And once we had the look of that bedroom we used that inspiration to move into the main living space….

The secondary bedroom is a smaller room and since they didn’t need another full-time bedroom, we turned this room into a small work space / den to be used if they needed some quiet space to work or extra room to host over night guests.

 

Take the condo tour….

To blend the more contemporary finishes with the tastes of the new owners we decided to work with neutrals as our colour palette and add lots of textures that would create contrast – that way there is ‘common thread’ with the colour palette and introducing the rustic and industrial elements with texture.

We added lots of galvanized metal detail like the kitchen counter height stools.  The coffee table is a painted metal piece, metal antlers and the metal frames on those round mirrors in the master bedroom. We also added textures like rope and reclaimed wood.

You will notice that we angled the rugs in both the living room and den – these rooms are a bit on the long side so by angling the rugs the room appears a bit wider and not just long.  We played with with wall space as much as we could – we think art is a great way to show off your personality and style plus it helps pull a look together. We have some unique pieces in different sizes which keeps the space interesting.

So this is the secondary bedroom, since they didn’t need (or want) another fully dedicated bedroom in their condo – we needed to create a multi-purpose space that was still clean in design.  So we added a small work space – neither of them needed a full home office. And this pull out sofa is perfect for another seating space for reading and a private sleeping area for guests.  We added some poufs as foot stools instead of a coffee table – we didn’t need the bulk and we love the texture of these rope poufs! This art piece is huge and we love it! It really shows off the couple’s fun personality!

So this master bedroom, was where we started with the design….the leather headboard was a great deal and it’s super versatile.  We kept the room looking fresh and bright with the pin tuck white bedding, it’s adds some femininity to the space as well. We love these round mirrors with rope detail but wall space in this condo was pretty limited so we decided to add them on either side of the bed over the reclaimed wood night stands – they look great and they make the room look a bit bigger, too!

Shop the look ….

Love the rustic and simple design of these round mirrors from Wayfair with the rope detail (they are so easy to hang, too)

 

These rope poufs are great foot stools or extra seating when you need it! We love the texture of these poufs – they really work well with the industrial or rustic look.

These metal stools were just one of the metal details we added to the space.  These stools have an industrial look (they are pretty comfortable, too) and easy to store – you can stack them!

This all white pin-tuck duvet added another detail and a feminine touch to the masted bedroom – we love how it looks with contrasting textures like brick and reclaimed wood.

You absolutely mix styles and textures to create a space that is all yours – that’s what personal style is all about,

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SHOPPING FINDS, TRENDS

How to decorate with Rose Gold

decorate-rose-gold

I am working on an exciting new design project with a client  – I will be sure to reveal this mystery client and the project as soon as we can- but for now we want to share one element that is inspiring us right now for this project…rose gold!

Yes, I know rose gold isn’t new but it is the first time that I have had a client to work with that has really embraced this stunning colour.

Rose gold…

is a sexy and feminine colour that blends gold and a soft pink.  It is warm, girly, sultry and we love it! Our client is a big fan, too and since this space that we are designing is all about her – we are definitely adding this tone to the space.

 Inspiration….

I love blending this warm metallic with shades of grey, white and millennial pink . When I am  designing spaces for clients I love for them to show me some images that inspired them …

Photo credit : Wedluxe

No, I’m not planning a wedding – but this image really sums up the elements that our clients likes – the florals that are full and subtle, the soft colour palette, the reflective surfaces (shiney and sparkly), the simplicity of the pieces and of course, the rose gold…

Photo credit : Flooring Canada Simcoe

Rose gold doesn’t just have to be in metal texture.  This room is another source of inspiration – it is so feminine and light.  All of the layers in this bedroom make it so dreamy and light.  Plus the pairing of the clean white walls with rose gold and blush tones is just so stunning.

Shop ….

1 light pendant in rose gold finish – these would look amazing over a kitchen island (if you want a feminine touch in your kitchen) or these could be a great light flanking a bed…

24″ Bar stool in rose gold finish – add some glam to your kitchen or bar space with these bar stools…

‘Tres Bien –  Art’ – Add some sparkle to your walls with this art piece in a metallic finish…this would be a fun addition in a bathroom or a bedroom for a teen.

Instead of art on the wall add some interest and function with this oversized 28″ wall clock

Love these faux silk pattern throw pillows they would look great on a bed with a bit of a glamorous feel like a tufted headboard – or a great accent in a feminine office space.

This accent stool is a great way to add this metal texture and tone to a space – this could be used as extra seating and even a side table for an accent chair.

This floral baroque rug is so feminine and pretty – this would be perfect in a feminine office…

I love this style of chair – it’s great as a small space accent chair, dining or kitchen table chair or even guest chairs in an at home office. This side chair also has a high shine finish that I like….

Metallic finishes and pieces can look very masculine but this is a great option for anyone looking for a warmer and feminine feel to add to their space….What do you think of this metallic tone?

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HOME DECOR, HOME STYLING, HOME TOUR

Home Tour : Warehouse Loft

home-tour-warehouse-loft

This warehouse loft model home is a past project of ours….we blended some of the typical warehouse loft elements like brick walls and industrial lighting with some fun accents of colour.  We love to play with mixing textures and adding some fun and quirky elements….

Loft elements – the ‘expected’ …

Often when we think of a loft style we think of raw materials like brick or concrete, wood and metal.  This loft model suite has a lot of those materials.  The kitchen lighting with an industrial look (above the island), the wide plank hardwood floors, the muted wood grain cabinets, the oversized black trim windows and that brick accent wall….are all seen here in this space.

and the unexpected….

Typically in this style of decor we see a lot of texture from raw materials but we see mostly neutrals – we decided to add some great colour and pattern – so this is the unexpected factor in this model loft.  This rug was a piece that we fell in love with and the bold teal tone is not something you often see in this decor style – that was one of the first pieces we found and wanted in this space.

The teal and the orange tone from the brick wall are natural complimentary colours – so we knew that this would work but it was unexpected.  We sourced out a simple and clean looking sofa in a great neutral tone would be a great canvas for some fun pillows.

We carried this bold colour theme into the bedroom as well for some consistency to keep the whole space looking fluid and therefore larger.  Looking at our inspiration vision e-decor boards – our final product isn’t that far off….

Loft model – take the tour…

See the end results of this model space –

Shop the loft look….

This art piece from Urban Barn is a favourite and it looks fantastic in the bedroom – it is a large piece (and we love oversized art) and would look great above a sofa…

These counter height stools in metal wire with a white leather seat are actually really comfortable – They offer great seating at the kitchen island but because of the wire detail they don’t look bulky and visually take up space.

Lighting makes a huge difference in a space and this industrial kitchen island pendant from Wayfair – really plays into the look of the space.

Metal is a big element in loft decor – we love these metal and stack-able bistro chairs – they are also easy to clean and as they age over time – it just adds character.

Warehouse industrial style is really unconventional and doesn’t really follow any rules – it easily blends with other styles which is just one of the reasons it is so popular…

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HOME STYLING, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS

What is e-decor?

what-is-e-decor

So what is our e-decor service?

E-decor is an interior design service that we offer for clients who love our style but don’t live in our area or clients who don’t mind doing the leg work but don’t know where to start.  The beauty of this service is you don’t need to live near by, we source items that you can purchase online and have delivered to your door and you can move at your pace as your timeline and budget allow…

How does the e-decor service work?

Our e-decor service is so easy! First, we do need to know which room or rooms you want to design and decorate, we love to know a bit more about your taste and style (sending us photos of rooms you like is perfect!), we need a rough budget to work with (we all have a budget and we believe that style doesn’t come with a price tag), photos and dimensions of your room(s) (in the case of a property under construction, a floor plan is perfect), and we also want to know what purpose you want the rooms to serve, for example – TV room, guest bedroom / home office etc…

Next, we prepare a quote for you and once approved we get started!  Depending on the size of the project this could take anywhere from 2-4 weeks. We send you a vision board with the furniture, art and accessories – you have the opportunity to then critique and we make the changes to produce the final concept.  We also provide a sketch with furniture placement and a series of styling tips (for example art placement)

 

E-decor is perfect for someone moving into a new home or space, some one who is short on time and someone who wants a designer space but doesn’t know where to start. E-decor is a great gift too! We love to work with clients and make their spaces come to life so they can enjoy life and their space without the stress that can come with it!

 

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