we answer wednesday Archives | Page 6 of 71

We Answer Wednesday – 5 Headboards for the Bedroom

July 1, 2015

“I am in the process of decorating my bedroom. I don’t currently have a headboard but it’s something I’ve been looking for. I just can’t decide what style I like. What are my options?”

Great question! A head board is often a focal point in the bedroom, so we understand wanting to choose the perfect style for your space! Choosing “staple” pieces for your home can be a daunting task, there is so much to choose from and so many to love! Believe me, we get that.

The most important thing is that your new headboard suits your space. Of course mixing styles is a fabulous idea and one we definitely recommend. While it may be a contrasting style, it has to flow and be harmonious. Having a random item that doesn’t seem to go with anything else will stand out like a sore thumb. If you are starting from scratch, you have tons of choices!

If you have existing décor in the space, our challenge now is to make your space beautiful and cohesive. Headboards come in all shapes, sizes, colours, textures, materials and with varying detail work. Narrow down what you like.Do you like button tufting? Great! We have a jumping off point. Are you into reclaimed wood? Fabulous! What tone and texture will complement your room?

Having a certain décor style that you like will help with this process. If your home has country flair or if it’s contemporary, try to stay true to those styles.

Here are some suggestions for headboard styles.

Leather:

this is a classic choice and will go with most décor styles. Depending on the colour you chose and the detail work, certain aspects will sway a leather headboard. A white leather headboard is typically a very modern look. Black or Brown leather is a more masculine fabric. A leather headboard is a safe option for a space.

Nail Head:

This is a very nice touch to add to a room. A more contemporary/traditional option but can work with a more rustic décor when mixed with the right pieces. A nail head detail is a beautiful option, the nail heads can be brass, chrome, brushed nickel or gold.

Choose something that will go with the existing hardware in your room (maybe dresser pulls or door knobs?). BUT you don’t have to. We are also big fans of mixing metals. Nail head detail works on both fabric and leather.

Button Tufting:

Button tufting is similar to a nail head detail in the sense that is versatile. This is a great option with a traditional or country room. The detail is a bit fussier than a nail head but still a great choice! Play with colour when choosing this style! Button tufting is great on leather and fabric as well.

Fabric:

The material options are extensive. So are the colour and pattern options. Depending on your style, fabric is a fabulous way to incorporate a unique element into your room and for the savvy DIY-er, also relatively easy to upholster an existing headboard and customize it with your own fabric and details.

Wood:

Wood is a fabulous option for a country or rustic/industrial style home. What’s most interesting about this is how authentic and natural it looks. There are so many stains, washes, textures etc. with wood so you can be super creative. The various tones available are too many to count and having a natural element in your space is a great way to bring the outdoors in!

Play with colour! Play with height! Play with shapes! There are SO many choices, do some research and see what speaks to you. Then go from there! Recognize what your style is and then build off of that. Be creative!

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How To Update My Dining room

June 24, 2015

“I know my dining room is in need of an update. I do have a beautiful wood table with matching chairs that my husband would just die if I threw out or painted!! Any ideas how I could update my dining room and include my furniture?”

A great question for a common dilemma. Many down sizers go through this exact same issue. What to keep, what to toss, what to donate….you want a current look in your space but your existing pieces were expensive, high quality, in good condition – what to do?

Well, you do have a number of options that won’t involve altering your wood furniture.

An all wood furniture set can make a room feel dark and heavy especially if you do not have much light in the room. So how about brightening up the space with colour and light? Try updating your chandelier for a more current look and more light. A great, versatile option is a lantern style – it works with traditional furniture and farmhouse styles but it can also transtion well with other styles too.

You can also add light with table lamps on your buffet piece. Look for shades that will allow light through – white, cream or beige are best. We also like these table lamps that have a traditional vase shape but in glass so they don’t add bulk.

If you have a china cabinet that you don’t want to part with or separate – try wall sconces for additional light. They won’t add an abundance of light but they will help with mood lighting for dinner parties. This images shows off sconces with multiple heads flanking the china cabinet.

Mirrors are also great because they allow light to bounce around the room making the room feel brighter and larger. Mirrored furniture or accessories like decorative bowls, frames or vases can add some brightness to the room too. This image shows how the combination of mirrors and glass make a bulky piece look lighter.

Try switching up your wall paint. The colour on the walls could also make the room feel dark and heavy.
Wood furniture has a weight to it already so if it is in a smaller room without much light, the room will look dark so try lighter tones on the wall for a fresh update. Soft creams, beiges and greys are timeless and won’t take away from your furniture or art.

If that isn’t adventurous enough for you – you can certainly add colour on the walls just be sure to balance it out with some other lighter items. This dining room is a mix of classic traditional and contemporary elements. The dark wood furniture and floors and the navy wall paint together would normally be too dark but paired with the light beige upholstery and textiles, white trim and wainscoting, lighting and the decorative plate wall – there is the right amount of balance in this dramatic dining room.

Many wood furniture sets are lacking in ‘punch’ meaning they are very tone on tone. Lots of browns in the stains but often in the upholstery. Why not re-upholster your chairs for a fresh look? The possibilities are endless and it makes a huge impact without even touching the wood! We have done this with a number of clients and they love the look and the price point. It is way more cost effective and your set will look new!

You can opt for something neutral with a subtle pattern for some visual interest.

You can stay pretty neutral but then go bolder with captain’s chairs

Or make a statement with colour and pattern.

If you are really looking to make a big leap outside of the box, try some new chairs all together and opt for something modern to really update your space. This farmhouse dining room looks updated with these Eiffel dining chairs in cream – they fit with the colour scheme but they are totally unexpected. By adding modern chairs to a traditional table you get a more casual feel.

Other updates…..

Try adding some bold art – something big, bold and graphic really updates any space plus it is an easy addition. Look at arranging your current art collection in a modern gallery style.

Try an accent wall with wall paper. Another way to add visual interest to the room using pattern. We used to see rooms with wall to wall wallpaper and that can be overwhelming and even stuffy but just one wall is fabulous. We also love to see another statement piece like art, photography or a mirror hung on that accent wall.

Try a bold area rug. Make a statement on your floor with a bold area rug – it’s like art on the floor. This image shows how the area rug can be the centerpiece of a room – the colour scheme revolves around this rug. A classic colour combo but a big statement.

What ever you do make a plan. For instance if you decide you want to paint, re-upholster and add a new light fixture be sure those elements work cohesively that way the whole room update will look spectacular!

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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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WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Easy Ideas for Additional Seating

June 10, 2015

“My boyfriend and I live in a small home. We love our home but we know it isn’t massive. We love to have friends and family over for movie and game night but we never seem to have enough space on the sofa. How can we have extra seating in our small space?”

Entertaining in a small space can feel a bit cramped but if you think double-duty pieces you should be able to get a lot of mileage out of your furniture.

In a small space, you really want to maximize as much as you can. so we always suggest the largest sofa that will fit in the space. You will get a lot of comfy seating for guests but for yourselves, too.

So now that you have a big, comfy (yet stylish) sofa. You can start adding some occasional or accent chairs/seating.

1. A slim accent chair.

You have a lot of choice when it comes to selecting an accent chairs. You could purchase an additional chair for your dining set or you could just use one from your dining set (this is a great if you are really tight on space). The different styles for dining chairs are endless. So You can easily find something that will work in your space.

Some of our favourite chairs are ghost chairs. They have a bit of a traditional look but with material gives it a modern twist. These are also amazing in a dining room with a wood table.

And when it comes to decorating smaller spaces we always recommend that you keep the same style throughout say industrial instead of changing styles from room to room – that will make the space look and feel choppy.

2. A slipper chair.

Another great option. A slipper chair is armless so it isn’t bulky. It has a leaner look but still comfortable. This style of chair comes is many finishes – we love a patterned slipper chair! It can make such an impact.

3. Stools.

Stools are maybe not the best for lounging on a movie night but we love them because they are great for a casual gathering like a cocktail party. They don’t take up a lot of room and they can easily be moved around. Plus they can also be used as a foot stool when needed.

We love the look (and ease) of these African inspired wood stools. They are a comfortable seat, visually they don’t add bulkiness and the style works in this space.

If your style is a bit more glam or traditional we love these T-frame stools that are positioned in front of the fireplace. We have used this style of stool for both home staging and with our interior decorating clients. They are another easy seating piece and you can really get playful with colour and pattern.

4. Poofs.

We love poofs. Again easy seating, great look and ‘portable’. They come in so many styles too. Another great way to add colour and texture to your space.

We love how they can also be tucked under a console or coffee table. This image is a great example of styling a small space – the light colour palette, the glass coffee table and these leather poofs. Extra seating or footstools and so chic!

This style of poof is a little more relaxed and casual but still cool and comfortable. Position them where ever you like. these are also great if you have children or ever have children visiting – they will love them! Some poofs in this style even have removable covers – so easy to wash!

5. Small ottomans.

Another favourite of ours. These are a little more structured than the casual/relaxed poofs but the same fashion and function and variety, too! We love them in pairs!

There are so many seating alternatives, we personally love ones that are easily moved around…you never know when people will just pop by…

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – How To Mix Patterns

May 27, 2015

“I love my home but slowly I have been making decor updates. In Interior Decorating magazines and TV shows, I always see designers mix different patterns and prints. I love the look but I have no idea how to mix patterns, can you help me get that “designer” look?’

Great question and yes, designers and decorators are always mixing different prints, patterns, textures and colours – by doing that you completely elevate the look of any room but it can be tricky! Adding pattern and print to your space is also a great way to add personality to your space. Pattern is so versatile and can be added to any room – bedrooms, living room, dining room and more. Pattern can be brought into a room using drapery, pillows, chairs and rugs but don’t forget about wallpaper accent walls, head boards, bedding and even dishware!

Follow our simple steps, you be be able to mix patterns like a pro!

1. Work with an odd number of patterns.

Odd numbers tend to look best, so if you’re going to play with patterns, start with three different patterns in three different scales. Once you’ve mastered the key to mixing patterns, try for five!

2. Use varying scales of pattern.

Incorporate varying scales to the space so that the prints don’t compete with one another. Sticking with the rule of three, pick one large, one medium and one small pattern to work with. For example, try one large floral/organic pattern, plus one medium geometric, plus one small classic pattern.

3. Large patterns work best on large pieces, small patterns work best on small pieces

When choosing the location of your patterns, keep in mind the space in which you are working. A large pattern works best on a large item, such as a wall, window treatment or area rug. because the space is large enough to accommodate the pattern in its entirety. A medium pattern is better suited to furniture and a small pattern to accent pieces. (Note: Sometimes, small patterns can look busy when used in large amounts.)

4. Look for a large pattern that incorporates all of your colours.

One approach to begin building your mix of patterns if your space has several colors in it, is to think of the large pattern as your anchor. It should be the biggest, boldest and incorporate ALL of your colors in your color scheme. From there, pick a different, medium-sized pattern (about half the size of your large pattern) that utilizes SOME of the colors. Lastly, the small pattern can use just TWO or THREE of your colors. One easy way to do this is to look for a fabric that has coordinating patterns available.

5. You can use pattern, even if you have a monochromatic room.

Alternatively, if you have a single color, play with different shades of the color. So long as you still vary the scale and type of pattern, you can create a very cohesive look of mixed patterns this way.

6. Consider adding a solid to the mix.

Don’t be afraid to throw in a solid to soften and ground the look! A solid can also help anchor the whole room which will allow the eye to focus.

7. Group together patterns that have similar qualities

If you have a defined style in your home, also give some thought as to the types of patterns that you mix together. Traditional patterns tend to mix easier with other traditional patterns, versus mixing them with bold, contemporary prints. So for example, traditional prints such as florals, plaids, and damask don’t always blend easily with chevron or ikat. This doesn’t mean you can’t mix patterns across styles – in fact, sometimes, an unexpected print gives a pop to the room – but if you’re just starting to experiment with pattern, it is often easier to stick within a style.

8. Be sure to balance your patterns in the space.

Balance is key! This includes not only balancing the scale of your patterns, but balancing them equally throughout the space to avoid a lop-sided feeling.

9. Stick with a consistent hue.

Within your color palette, use colors with consistent intensities. If your palette is pastel, don’t mix in a bold jewel tone and vice-versa.

10. Don’t be afraid to break the rules!

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so break the rules if it looks good to you! Sometimes, complementary patterns and motifs come together in an organic and unplanned fashion, so if it looks good to you, go for it and have fun!

Mixing up patterns and prints is so much fun and it really adds to the space – Don’t be afraid to mix it up!

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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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KITCHENS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Kitchen Backsplash

May 13, 2015

“I moved into my townhouse a year ago. I love my kitchen! it’s white with light grey counter top and grey tile floor. This summer I want to add a back splash but I’m not sure what to choose. Any advice?”

A white kitchen is classic and a great choice for a smaller space. It’s light and bright and in terms of resale, it has mass appeal. Adding a backsplash is a simple update that isn’t disruptive to your life at home. A backsplash in a kitchen is like adding jewelry to an outfit – it really pulls it all together. This year in tile it was all about shape, the colours were all neutral but the shapes were the focus.

For a back splash, you have lots of options.

Subway tile –

this is a classic and you cannot go wrong with this option. Seen here in a brick or staggered formation it mimics the look of brick. A typical subway tile is 3″ x 6″ but there are variations in size. In terms of colour – a soft grey is a good neutral option as is white but you could also go with a charcoal for a more dramatic look. If you are thinking you might sell in about 3-5 years choose something with some longevity like a neutral tone.

Stainless Steel Tile –

this has a bit more of an industrial edge. This material works well in a kitchen as it’s easy to clean and maintain. You will also have a lot of shapes and sizes to choose from. This also looks great in a kitchen that has stainless steel appliances.

Glass mosaic tile –

this option was super popular a few years ago. This is still seen today but more tone on tone like the image here. Various shades of grey and a mix of clear and frosted glass. Again, a soft look with a bit of texture and shine – ideal for a smaller kitchen.

Marble tile –

Marble is so classic and elegant but we have been seeing it in more modern and contemporary spaces, too. It is a material that requires a lot of maintenance when installed as a counter top but as a back splash not to so much. The natural variation and veins make it visually interesting and it look amazing when paired with grey and white.

Hexagon tile –

a popular shape in 2015 for backsplashes and floors. Try this in a neutral tone and it will give even the most ‘tired’ kitchen a fresh look. The shape is interesting but not over the top. Hexagon tiles also look incredible in bathrooms too, in a shower as an accent or on the shower floor.

Herringbone formation –

still looking for something a bit different but not totally off the wall? Try a herringbone formation. Using a subway tile, instead of staggering the tile you lay it in a ‘zig zag’ format. Herringbone is a pattern we often see in menswear but we are seeing it in tiles. Stick with a neutral colour palette and a grout that is a few shades lighter (or darker) than the tile so that the pattern shows. This also looks great on a floor with a 12 x 24 tile.

Arabesque tile –

this is a shape that’s recently popular. It adds an elegant touch to a kitchen. Again, use a grout with some pigmentation so that the shape is evident. It’s lovely in white and soft grey.

Kitchen back splash tiles are that final touch that really pull it all together!

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Colour Combos with Grey

May 6, 2015

“I jumped on the grey trend last year for my new place and I do love it but I’m feeling like tone on tone shades of grey is a bit bland and bordering on depressing. How can I spruce up my grey condo? Are there colours you would recommend?”

Grey has been a trend for a few years and is becoming more popular especially in tiles, flooring and kitchens and baths. You are in luck! Grey is a neutral so it can pair beautifully with just about every colour. Here are some examples of what you can do with grey in your space. There’s no wrong answer, it’s all about preference

The other great thing about Grey is that is works with all styles – rustic country, sleek modern and everything in between. But when it comes to choosing an accent colour think about the mood you would like to set. You can have a ‘moody’ house with a few different accents, maybe soft purples in the bedroom and blues in the main living space

Here are some of our favourite colour palettes with greys:

Yellow –

This image is an example of some contemporary with an eclectic vibe using a touch of yellow. This look has a sophisticated vibe because it has introduced some brass touches in the coffee table and the lighting (so another element of yellow) and some bold graphic elements in art and pillows. We also see splashes of a mustard tone in the rug, This classic colour combo can work in a living room, dining room, bedroom anywhere in the house.

Pink –

Add some bright, bold and girly glam to your space. This colour combo is perfect for a bedroom. Again using bold pink accessories in the bedroom makes a statement. But you could opt for softer and lighter pinks paired with grey for a more romantic feel to your space.

Blue –

any shade will do! You can opt for soft aqua tones for a more rustic country look, bold and deep turquoise tones with shades of grey for a more modern and contemporary feel. But for something a bit more sophisticated try deep indigo with greys and fresh white. So clean and simple…..

Green –

lime green is fun and bright and paired with deep greys is it beautiful and not too serious. But a deeper truer Kelly green with soft greys is also a great match. Like yellow it works in any space

Orange –

love orange and grey, sophisticated and a bit sporty! It works with all shades of grey – try layering your grey and add bold pops of orange like in this bedroom. Don’t forget to play with patterns and prints in this orange tone. A great colour combo and a new classic.

Purple –

Try pairing soft lavender and soft greys with a few pops of deeper grey and purple (like charcoal and eggplant) for a romantic room – love this combo in a bedroom. Layering different textures will also add to a romantic space. But if you opt for bolder, brighter and deeper tones of purple you will get a modern and edgy vibe

Don’t forget to add a secondary accent colour just to keep that designer look.

This image is a great example of adding a secondary accent colour for additional pop. Here we have a basic and neutral palette with the off-white sofa, light grey carpet and dark wood stain. Adding the lemonade yellow and the deep teal is a slight spin on a classic combo of yellow and blue.

By layering your shades of grey adding a bit of white and/or black and a pop of colour (or two)…you will have a sophisticated and designer look in your space.

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HOME STAGING, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – ‘Staging’ a vacation rental

April 29, 2015

“My husband and I have a vacation property – we love being there but we aren’t up there all of the time since we both still work full time. We will be renting it out to vacationers but there is a lot of competition in our area – how can we set ourselves apart?”

Great question! Vacations are what we all dream of …so your property needs to be that dream. Regardless of the location of your rental (mountain getaway or beach escape) your rental needs to look it’s best! If you are hoping to rent it for top dollar to make some extra income you will want to spend some money and effort up front to make it that dream vacation spot.

So ‘staging’ your vacation property for photos and for when your guests arrive is a great way to set yourself apart for the competition – the up front costs will be worth it in the end – you will be able to rent easily, you will get top dollar and you will get repeat renters. Want to be that hot rental spot that people pay top dollar for and book in advance?

Follow our tips:

Start by keeping it simple –

keep the colours fresh, patterns to a minimum and opt for decor that makes sense for the space. Stay with simple palettes and some pattern, stay away from wall paper and fussy details

A mountain home with some deer head silhouettes and ‘log’ inspired pieces makes sense plus natural materials like stone, wool, fur and wood – people will be paying for the mountain ambiance. Warm colour and lots of layered textures give that luxurious and cozy cabin feel.

For a beach house think coastal colours, soft light and airy. Light colours and organic elements really set the tone for the ‘beach house’ look and feel that vacationers will be looking for. Drift wood, cotton, canvas and sea shells work beautifully

Art pieces and accessories-

can really add to the cozy factor but don’t over do it – don’t get too many as it will appear cluttered and don’t purchase anything too expensive. Stay away from heavy and/or fussy drapery – especially if you have a view

Add some cute details that vacationers will remember – if they feel like they are welcomed, they really connect with the property and will want to return year after year

For bedding and bathrooms, keep it clean like you would see at a chic hotel. You can’t go wrong with white bedding and bath linens.

And pay for professional photos…..

the lighting and the quality are so much better. Photos are key here, so some staging techniques will really help. Most (if not all) of your inquiries will come from the Internet so your presence needs to be there and you really, really, really need to have spot-on photos. We know from looking at vacation rentals online how important photos are. Because of the distance your ‘renters’ will only see your property online, you don’t have the luxury of ‘maybe it looks better in person’.

Other great ideas:

– Be helpful:

-keep a binder with area hot spot – restaurants, movie theaters, shops, maps and more. Great local hot spots and fun areas for couples and/or couples to check out. Also think about laundry facilities – this is a big help to families especially. Also leave numbers in case of emergencies

– Amenities and comforts of home:

maybe when you are on vacation you want to be ‘unplugged’ but for some they may need to work a bit so having TVs, WiFi and more are also attractive.Maybe decks of cards and some basic board games, too

– Equipment:

stock the kitchen with crockery, cutlery, cooking tools and more are helpful. Near the beach – maybe have some sand toys for kids. First aid kits are also a good idea

– Research:

find out from a local vacation property manager what vacationers are requesting – hot tub? canoe? kayak? and try to offer those most requested items. Also get in touch with a rental equipment company since some guests may require special items like cribs or wheel chairs

– Maintenance:

make sure the property is clean inside and out! Grass cut and gardens maintained

– Decor:

it doesn’t need to be full of expensive pieces but find items that set the scene and the tone. Choose soft and light colours if by the beach, think nautical tones if lake side and richer and warmer tones for a mountain home. If you furniture is dated – cover it with slip covers (also easy to clean), old dining table – try paint or adding new chairs.

Some of my most memorable family vacations were when we could just relax and feel like we were at home. By creating the vacation property that vacationers dream of you will always have renters, you will be able to charge top dollar and you will be in high demand.

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OUTDOORS, WE ANSWER WEDNESDAY

We Answer Wednesday – Outdoor Updates

March 25, 2015

“Spring is almost here! How can I re-vamp my outdoor décor without replacing everything I already own?”

Spring IS actually here – after a long winter, I think we’re all looking forward to enjoying our
outdoor living spaces to their fullest. There are many accessories and products available to create your outdoor oasis.. most may seem obvious, but changing up your colour palette, or the addition of just a few pieces will be a game changer!

Photo credit CentsationalGirl.com

Outdoor Rugs

are a fabulous addition to any outdoor space whether it be your front porch sitting area, or as an area rug around your table, the addition of an outdoor rug brings colour, pattern and texture to your space! The added pop of interest will instantly refresh your exterior.

Pillows are a common upgrade when trying to refresh your home.

BUT, there are many colours, patterns, and textures to choose from, so in order to make a big impact, choose something different! We love mixing and matching colours and patterns, so try that! The carefully selected mixture of the two will give your backyard that designer feel!

Photo credit: horchow.com

Side Tables are more fun than ever!

There are so many great options, garden stools are still a super hot trend right now. They are available in so many colours, designs, textures and patterns! Adding a garden stool as a side table is a welcome addition to the back or front yard! With their compact size, this is a fabulous option for a balcony or a front porch with limited space. There are lots of different styles of side tables, the great thing about patio furniture is that it comes in SO many colours.

Planters/Plants

Greenery is always a welcome addition to any area. Having plants and flowers around is a mood booster for most, not to mention its just pretty to look at. Pairing colourful plants in a beautiful planter in various sizes is a
interesting way to make your backyard cozier.

If you’re worried about plants dying….

Try using fake plants in real planters. Fake plants have come a long way and there are many that you cant even tell aren’t real! Adding those in a planter or pot is a great alternative for the busy family, or someone who’s lacking in the “green thumb” department.

Chairs come in so many colours, shapes and sizes!

Chose what you love. The options are endless. Adding a few bright
colored Adirondack chairs with a fun pillow is a great spring/summer refresh. Depending on your budget, there are great lounge chairs, outdoor sofas and love seats that are a fun choice for backyard BBQs and get-togethers.

Accessories tie a space together both inside and outside. But adding accessories outdoor is pretty different than inside.

Here are a few accessory suggestions..

Outdoor String Lights
Lanterns
Candles
Outdoor Serveware
Outdoor Placements
Tablecloths

Happy spring!!!!

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