Have you ever wondered why coloured spaces are so eye-catching? Do you have an emotional reaction to colour when you enter a unexpectedly coloured space?
Here is a description of what the 7 most popular colours can do for us.
Red is an energetic and vital colour, stimulating creativity. Conversely, it can aggravate nervous energy.
Orange has long been considered a social colour. It's recognized as having the potential to energize.
Yellow is a memory enhancer as well as a booster of intellectual prowess. Yellow is also said to soothe emotional distress.
Green contributes to a sense of calm. It can balance and harmonize an environment.
Blue is cool, calm and collected. It's probably the most favourite colour in the whole world. Blue inspires communication and self-expression.
Indigo is sophisticated, and imparts reliability and natural leadership. It also subdues fear.
Violet is a good equalizer and inspires creativity. The downside is that it can also agitate emotions. It's fabulous used in small doses.
Your Beautiful Home offers in-home colour consultations which normally last up to 2 hours. Click here for more information.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Some beautiful lighting for you from Verner Panton
The main purpose of my work is to provoke people into using their imagination, to encourage them to use their fantasy and make their surroundings more exciting.
Verner Panton (1926 - 1998)
The name Verner doesn't ring a bell for you?
Didn't for me either, but now I will be looking out for this Danish designer's influence on modern design, as well as for his designs which are still in production. Check out the Design Within Reach website which features a bio on Verner by clicking here.
His Panton chair. His pendant, floor and table lamps. All are something to see. Panton's lighting has been described as functional jewellery for interiors. The lighting designs featured at Design Within Reach are made of hand-cut mother of pearl discs which make wonderful musical sounds when stirred by a breeze.
The Onion Pendant is made of strips of bent metal that hide the bulb, while acting as reflectors to diffuse light around the room. Very sleek, modern and unusual.
Looking at beautiful designs helps to elevate my mood and my inspiration level. I love to dream big dreams when I'm updating a tired space.
I hope you enjoy Verner's work!
Verner Panton (1926 - 1998)
The name Verner doesn't ring a bell for you?
Didn't for me either, but now I will be looking out for this Danish designer's influence on modern design, as well as for his designs which are still in production. Check out the Design Within Reach website which features a bio on Verner by clicking here.
His Panton chair. His pendant, floor and table lamps. All are something to see. Panton's lighting has been described as functional jewellery for interiors. The lighting designs featured at Design Within Reach are made of hand-cut mother of pearl discs which make wonderful musical sounds when stirred by a breeze.
The Onion Pendant is made of strips of bent metal that hide the bulb, while acting as reflectors to diffuse light around the room. Very sleek, modern and unusual.
Looking at beautiful designs helps to elevate my mood and my inspiration level. I love to dream big dreams when I'm updating a tired space.
I hope you enjoy Verner's work!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Decorating with Art
Do you have framed prints, but lack the inspiration required to display them on your walls?
A link to the Better Homes and Gardens website came into my inbox today, with some beautiful photos and information about how to display art in your space.
http://www.bhg.com/decorating/home-accessories/wall-art/hanging-wall-arrangements/
Cut and paste the above url into your browser to take you there. Check out the 14 photos and inspiring description of how to get the same look in your home.
Enjoy personalizing your space with art!
A link to the Better Homes and Gardens website came into my inbox today, with some beautiful photos and information about how to display art in your space.
http://www.bhg.com/decorating/home-accessories/wall-art/hanging-wall-arrangements/
Cut and paste the above url into your browser to take you there. Check out the 14 photos and inspiring description of how to get the same look in your home.
Enjoy personalizing your space with art!
Friday, September 24, 2010
Play the fun Colour Sense game!
Do you want to find out what colour palettes you prefer based on your personality, values and senses?
Take the Voice of Color by Pittsburgh Paints color sense game. Click on the link here to find out your colour preferences.
Enjoy. And have a colourful day!
Take the Voice of Color by Pittsburgh Paints color sense game. Click on the link here to find out your colour preferences.
Enjoy. And have a colourful day!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Budget Friendly Wall Art
While looking at Style at Home from August, 2010, I came across an interesting article written by Bethany Lyttle.
The piece showcases an almost completely white guest space decorated by Colleen Sawatsky, in a vintage inspired West Coast cottage. On the white wall behind the classic, white slip-covered sofa is a beautiful piece of eye-catching art on canvas. The background of the artwork is white, with large-scale, graphic, fuschia pink flower blooms on stems blooming across the canvas.
Who is the artist? What exactly is that? What's going on here?
Upon closer look, the details state the origin of the art. It's made from beautiful fabric stretched over a frame. Oh my gosh.
This can easily be created by anyone. Simple, inexpensive and beautiful.
From Michaels craft stores or XS Cargo end-of-line stores you can purchase blank canvases stretched over frames. Check out the local fabric stores for beautiful designs or order fabric (made to match to wallpaper) from a wall paper store to stretch over the frame. Keep in mind the width of the fabric. You'll want it to be at least two inches wider all around the outside frame measurement so you have something to staple under at the back. When stapling, make sure to turn under the cut edge and keep it flat on the back so when it's hanging on the wall, it will hang flat.
That's it! Easy.
Beautiful, original wall art made by you, the artist!
The piece showcases an almost completely white guest space decorated by Colleen Sawatsky, in a vintage inspired West Coast cottage. On the white wall behind the classic, white slip-covered sofa is a beautiful piece of eye-catching art on canvas. The background of the artwork is white, with large-scale, graphic, fuschia pink flower blooms on stems blooming across the canvas.
Who is the artist? What exactly is that? What's going on here?
Upon closer look, the details state the origin of the art. It's made from beautiful fabric stretched over a frame. Oh my gosh.
This can easily be created by anyone. Simple, inexpensive and beautiful.
From Michaels craft stores or XS Cargo end-of-line stores you can purchase blank canvases stretched over frames. Check out the local fabric stores for beautiful designs or order fabric (made to match to wallpaper) from a wall paper store to stretch over the frame. Keep in mind the width of the fabric. You'll want it to be at least two inches wider all around the outside frame measurement so you have something to staple under at the back. When stapling, make sure to turn under the cut edge and keep it flat on the back so when it's hanging on the wall, it will hang flat.
That's it! Easy.
Beautiful, original wall art made by you, the artist!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Beautiful Decor - whatever your financial position.
A statement I heard a couple of years ago: "Decor isn't about money - it's about your heart and how you bring that into your home"
I love this. Sure, it's easy to have a stylish, beautiful home if you have the proverbial money tree growing in your backyard.
But, for most people, we have to make do with what we have, saving up for the things that will make our spaces more beautiful and functional in the future. We have to think hard about how to achieve that harmonious, put-together look.
Sometimes we need to be creative about re-using and re-purposing items that we currently have, or items that we can easily find.
Rescuing items from the curbside can be an exhilarating experience. To visualize them with a fresh, updated status. To liberate them with a coat of paint, new hardware, glass tops, whatever they need. Right before your eyes they transform into a brand new custom piece which adds personality and vitality to your space for almost free.
Personally, I've surprised myself on many occasions when I've been walking in the mornings on curb-pick-up day. I've found many wonderful surprises which I've carried or dragged back home. Eventually I've embellished and improved these pieces to become functional, beautiful parts of my home.
Whether you pick from you money tree out back, or carefully plan for those necessary, long-lasting quality items, or you creativity morph pre-used items into useful, beautiful pieces for your space, there are great design possibilities for everyone at whatever position you're at.
Remember, it's not about the money. It's not about spending a lot of cash on beautifully designed expensive things.
It's about representing your heart and personality in your home. It's about thinking, planning, reusing, re-beautifying.....and mostly having fun with your stuff!
I love this. Sure, it's easy to have a stylish, beautiful home if you have the proverbial money tree growing in your backyard.
But, for most people, we have to make do with what we have, saving up for the things that will make our spaces more beautiful and functional in the future. We have to think hard about how to achieve that harmonious, put-together look.
Sometimes we need to be creative about re-using and re-purposing items that we currently have, or items that we can easily find.
Rescuing items from the curbside can be an exhilarating experience. To visualize them with a fresh, updated status. To liberate them with a coat of paint, new hardware, glass tops, whatever they need. Right before your eyes they transform into a brand new custom piece which adds personality and vitality to your space for almost free.
Personally, I've surprised myself on many occasions when I've been walking in the mornings on curb-pick-up day. I've found many wonderful surprises which I've carried or dragged back home. Eventually I've embellished and improved these pieces to become functional, beautiful parts of my home.
Whether you pick from you money tree out back, or carefully plan for those necessary, long-lasting quality items, or you creativity morph pre-used items into useful, beautiful pieces for your space, there are great design possibilities for everyone at whatever position you're at.
Remember, it's not about the money. It's not about spending a lot of cash on beautifully designed expensive things.
It's about representing your heart and personality in your home. It's about thinking, planning, reusing, re-beautifying.....and mostly having fun with your stuff!
Friday, September 10, 2010
How to buy a Sofa in a nutshell
In September many of us begin to think about starting new interior design projects. The weather is quickly turning cold and we're moving to the indoors, cocooning once again.
Now may be the perfect time to purchase new, comfortable upholstered furniture. If that's in the plan for you, here's a quick how-to.
On the inside:
1. Wood Type. The best wood for frame construction is hardwood maple. It's more durable than plywood or particle board.
2. Connecting pieces. Dowel joints and inserts are by far the best connectors. Staples are an inferior way of joining the arms, legs and body pieces to the frame.
3. Legs. For a good quality sofa, the legs will always be connected to the frame or bolted on. Whenever a sofa has screwed on legs, the quality isn't as high.
4. Springing. The finest manufacturers use web and coil springing, hand tying the coils together with strong string.
On the outside:
Determine what colour upholstery and wood will be as satisfying several years down the road as it is today. Choosing a neutral hue, will give your furniture long lasting appeal. The dusty rose of the 80's was short-lived, but sand, white, black, and grey tones will have longevity and will satisfy. If your space needs colour, you can always bring it into the room with pillows, throws and accessories.
Determine the texture of the couch, whether leather, or fabric depending on your taste and lifestyle. A solid colour will show dirt more quickly than a small pattern. Treating a sofa with Fiberseal to protect against stains and spills will extend the life of the furniture surface.
Classic furniture styles don't follow short term trends and usually include features such as moderate arm size, crisp, tailored lines and classic arms.
Fabric will eventually wear and tear with use, and re-upholstering the furniture later will make the investment in the furniture pay off. A well-made quality sofa will cost $4000 - $6000, but the frame will last for life.
Enjoy looking at several retail stores for your furniture. Don't be afraid to sit and lie on the couches. Test them for comfort, and for length if you are tall and hope to be napping on them! New furniture adds new, updated visual appeal to your room.
My bet is that you'll end up being very satisfied if you take the time to plan and purchase these important elements to your space.
Now may be the perfect time to purchase new, comfortable upholstered furniture. If that's in the plan for you, here's a quick how-to.
On the inside:
1. Wood Type. The best wood for frame construction is hardwood maple. It's more durable than plywood or particle board.
2. Connecting pieces. Dowel joints and inserts are by far the best connectors. Staples are an inferior way of joining the arms, legs and body pieces to the frame.
3. Legs. For a good quality sofa, the legs will always be connected to the frame or bolted on. Whenever a sofa has screwed on legs, the quality isn't as high.
4. Springing. The finest manufacturers use web and coil springing, hand tying the coils together with strong string.
On the outside:
Determine what colour upholstery and wood will be as satisfying several years down the road as it is today. Choosing a neutral hue, will give your furniture long lasting appeal. The dusty rose of the 80's was short-lived, but sand, white, black, and grey tones will have longevity and will satisfy. If your space needs colour, you can always bring it into the room with pillows, throws and accessories.
Determine the texture of the couch, whether leather, or fabric depending on your taste and lifestyle. A solid colour will show dirt more quickly than a small pattern. Treating a sofa with Fiberseal to protect against stains and spills will extend the life of the furniture surface.
Classic furniture styles don't follow short term trends and usually include features such as moderate arm size, crisp, tailored lines and classic arms.
Fabric will eventually wear and tear with use, and re-upholstering the furniture later will make the investment in the furniture pay off. A well-made quality sofa will cost $4000 - $6000, but the frame will last for life.
Enjoy looking at several retail stores for your furniture. Don't be afraid to sit and lie on the couches. Test them for comfort, and for length if you are tall and hope to be napping on them! New furniture adds new, updated visual appeal to your room.
My bet is that you'll end up being very satisfied if you take the time to plan and purchase these important elements to your space.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Canadian West Coast Style
I've just returned from a vacation in Kelowna B.C., in the beautiful Okanagan valley. I viewed several model homes in Wilden, a new large development which features many different builders. The West Coast architectural style is a style to love. The wood beams, stonework, large, vast expanses of open space concept in the residential housing. It makes the style we Ontarians are used to, look very uptight and conservative.
The mountains, lakes and valleys are the reason why purchasing a house at the top of a hill with a killer view is so important on the west coast. And the views are maximized with large custom-sized windows and fold-away walls of glass doors instead of sliding glass doors. I guess there's no mosquito problem in the west.
The outdoor patio area in these luxury homes was an extension of the inside space and during the warm months is an extra room just beyond the living room. Every home I looked at had outdoor fireplaces and outdoor kitchens.
The homes had high ceilings and in many cases had exposed 2 storey rises throughout the home. The indoor fireplaces were featured extensively in the homes and gave a real appearance of ambience and warmth.
I love taking in the finishes, decor accents and the interesting living alternatives in model homes.
Cheers to Western Canada!
The mountains, lakes and valleys are the reason why purchasing a house at the top of a hill with a killer view is so important on the west coast. And the views are maximized with large custom-sized windows and fold-away walls of glass doors instead of sliding glass doors. I guess there's no mosquito problem in the west.
The outdoor patio area in these luxury homes was an extension of the inside space and during the warm months is an extra room just beyond the living room. Every home I looked at had outdoor fireplaces and outdoor kitchens.
The homes had high ceilings and in many cases had exposed 2 storey rises throughout the home. The indoor fireplaces were featured extensively in the homes and gave a real appearance of ambience and warmth.
I love taking in the finishes, decor accents and the interesting living alternatives in model homes.
Cheers to Western Canada!
Friday, June 11, 2010
The Papervore coffee table
You will not believe this.
Click on pigeontaildesign.com and view the Papervore coffee table video. It only takes 24 seconds.
A beautiful, modern, highly functional and fun(!) piece of furniture. Fill it up with shredded paper and it becomes a wonderful sculptural accent in your living room.
Pssst. Pass it on.
Click on pigeontaildesign.com and view the Papervore coffee table video. It only takes 24 seconds.
A beautiful, modern, highly functional and fun(!) piece of furniture. Fill it up with shredded paper and it becomes a wonderful sculptural accent in your living room.
Pssst. Pass it on.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Brian Thiessen, local cabinetry whiz!
My friend, Brian Thiessen, self-employed cabinet maker and installer, has worked for 6 years in the K-W area. I’ve seen his custom designed work and am thrilled with the craftsmanship and quality he brings to his work. Recently, Brian updated me on cabinet trends and how they’re changing. Read on the hear what Brian has to say.
Brian is all about the cabinets. Built-ins, free standing furniture, re-finished, re-faced, or replaced. Also on his impressive list are, fireplace mantels, entertainment units, laundry rooms, in-home offices, interior trim carpentry, crown moldings, wall paneling, window and door casings.
The current cabinet trend that Brian has observed is clean, plain, basic styling. Simplistic and spare is where the trends are moving. No bulkheads, crown molding or fancy furniture baseboards. Sleek and modern. People are transforming their homes into environments of relaxation and peace to balance their busy lifestyles.
High gloss finishes are becoming more popular. Plain flat colour can change into a dramatic and interesting piece simply by changing the sheen on the top coat of lacquer.
Horizontal lines are a current trend for door and drawer front selection. Grain direction - from side to side - can have a momentous affect, turning a plain door into a unique and interesting piece.
When it comes to cabinet hardware, people seem to be looking for a “one-of-a-kind” pieces and today’s market provides that. We are seeing a return to crystals and glass pieces combined with new metals. Stunning and modern.
If you would like to discuss some options for new or existing cabinets please feel free to contact Brian at b_thiessen@hotmail.com or call him at 519.590.7800 for a complimentary in-home consultation.
Brian is all about the cabinets. Built-ins, free standing furniture, re-finished, re-faced, or replaced. Also on his impressive list are, fireplace mantels, entertainment units, laundry rooms, in-home offices, interior trim carpentry, crown moldings, wall paneling, window and door casings.
The current cabinet trend that Brian has observed is clean, plain, basic styling. Simplistic and spare is where the trends are moving. No bulkheads, crown molding or fancy furniture baseboards. Sleek and modern. People are transforming their homes into environments of relaxation and peace to balance their busy lifestyles.
High gloss finishes are becoming more popular. Plain flat colour can change into a dramatic and interesting piece simply by changing the sheen on the top coat of lacquer.
Horizontal lines are a current trend for door and drawer front selection. Grain direction - from side to side - can have a momentous affect, turning a plain door into a unique and interesting piece.
When it comes to cabinet hardware, people seem to be looking for a “one-of-a-kind” pieces and today’s market provides that. We are seeing a return to crystals and glass pieces combined with new metals. Stunning and modern.
If you would like to discuss some options for new or existing cabinets please feel free to contact Brian at b_thiessen@hotmail.com or call him at 519.590.7800 for a complimentary in-home consultation.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Starting a Decorating Project
Has your living space ever felt like a hopeless mess? You don't know where to start to improve it because the clutter is overwhelming? Do you want to take it in a new direction but have no idea where to go with it?
Well, listen up because I've got a few pointers about how to start off the design process.
Many people go out and buy a new couch or choose paint colours prematurely, investing their time and money into something that perhaps needs a little bit more thought and planning. They may not end up with the harmonious design that they are hoping for.
In order to create the best outcome, starting with an inspiration will ensure that you have a lucid plan to follow and everything will follow along in place. The inspiration will be the model for everything, so start with something that you absolutely love!
Design inspiration is anything that gives you the feeling that you want in the room that you are re-doing. If could be a photo, or an accessory, or a catalogue of favourite furniture. Look for your personal design inspiration in magazines, hotels, accessory stores, wallpaper books and movies which are shot in a location or on a set to reflect a style that you love.
What comes to your mind when I mention "Ralph Lauren style"? My bet is that it's luxuriously designed space, in a tall ceilinged room with sumptuous drapes and bedding, where the comfort and beauty is to die for. This is inspiration at it's best.
Take some time to take yourself away (well, your imagination anyway!) to a place where you can dare to imagine what the potential for this space could be. Next, assemble a collection of photos, and maybe a list of things that you would want in this space. Measure, plan, and slowly put the space together and you will be pleasantly surprised!
Oh, and make sure to take before and after photographs.
Dream, dare and design!
Well, listen up because I've got a few pointers about how to start off the design process.
Many people go out and buy a new couch or choose paint colours prematurely, investing their time and money into something that perhaps needs a little bit more thought and planning. They may not end up with the harmonious design that they are hoping for.
In order to create the best outcome, starting with an inspiration will ensure that you have a lucid plan to follow and everything will follow along in place. The inspiration will be the model for everything, so start with something that you absolutely love!
Design inspiration is anything that gives you the feeling that you want in the room that you are re-doing. If could be a photo, or an accessory, or a catalogue of favourite furniture. Look for your personal design inspiration in magazines, hotels, accessory stores, wallpaper books and movies which are shot in a location or on a set to reflect a style that you love.
What comes to your mind when I mention "Ralph Lauren style"? My bet is that it's luxuriously designed space, in a tall ceilinged room with sumptuous drapes and bedding, where the comfort and beauty is to die for. This is inspiration at it's best.
Take some time to take yourself away (well, your imagination anyway!) to a place where you can dare to imagine what the potential for this space could be. Next, assemble a collection of photos, and maybe a list of things that you would want in this space. Measure, plan, and slowly put the space together and you will be pleasantly surprised!
Oh, and make sure to take before and after photographs.
Dream, dare and design!
Friday, May 28, 2010
Bouclair, Waterloo ON
Wow. Stepping inside Bouclair Waterloo on a hot day was a cool experience in a couple of ways. Cool air-conditioned air in my face. Very nice. As I looked around, the cool merchandise in the store captured my interest. How can a style-conscious person believe how far their product line extends?
I love this store, and I stop by whenever I'm in north Waterloo. Love the modern styling. Love the ottomans and storage cubes - there is one of every imaginable size, texture and material. Love the draperies, bed coverings, window coverings, accessories, wall art (including removable wall tattoos), outdoor accessories. And love the furniture.
My kids love the Bouclair microfleece throws that I bought them for snuggling in. So soft and warm. Today I was all over the Akira collection of duvet covers. They are puffy, pin-tucked duvet covers which would add a beautiful textural quality to your bed and provide a cosy, cocoon for nestling in after a long day. Girly, soft and luxurious.
Bouclair is a refreshing and enlighting experience. Bouclair has original items that won't be found anywhere else. And prices are right in line with the rest of the decor world. To check out Bouclair website, click here: bouclair.com.
Enjoy shopping!
I love this store, and I stop by whenever I'm in north Waterloo. Love the modern styling. Love the ottomans and storage cubes - there is one of every imaginable size, texture and material. Love the draperies, bed coverings, window coverings, accessories, wall art (including removable wall tattoos), outdoor accessories. And love the furniture.
My kids love the Bouclair microfleece throws that I bought them for snuggling in. So soft and warm. Today I was all over the Akira collection of duvet covers. They are puffy, pin-tucked duvet covers which would add a beautiful textural quality to your bed and provide a cosy, cocoon for nestling in after a long day. Girly, soft and luxurious.
Bouclair is a refreshing and enlighting experience. Bouclair has original items that won't be found anywhere else. And prices are right in line with the rest of the decor world. To check out Bouclair website, click here: bouclair.com.
Enjoy shopping!
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
To all the Do It Yourselfers out there!
I was reading Style at Home's June 2010 issue, and took note of their style news e-scoop. It highlighted 3 blogs written by do-it yourselfers. Personally, I am energized like crazy when I read these DIY stories. Especially in tight economic times. To make something beautiful out of garbage, now that's special!
The links to these blogs are as follows: centsationalgirl.com, by Kate Riley of California. She is a master at turning junk into jewels! Very inspiring.
The second one is windhula.blogspot.com and is written by Michelle Hinckley, wife, mother of two boys and DIY maven. The blog documents her family life and her DIY pursuits in her home.
The third is aubreyandlindsay.blogspot.com and is written by a Toronto couple, Aubrey and Lindsay, (go figure) who have renovated their home on a budget. Everything they could do themselves, they did, and they did it well.
I love stories about reworking items from worn-out and ugly, to purposeful and lovely. It requires imagination, resourcefulness, and drive to complete a task that may seem like a waste of time to the average person. DIY-ers are way above average. And they end up with a cool, custom stuff.
The links to these blogs are as follows: centsationalgirl.com, by Kate Riley of California. She is a master at turning junk into jewels! Very inspiring.
The second one is windhula.blogspot.com and is written by Michelle Hinckley, wife, mother of two boys and DIY maven. The blog documents her family life and her DIY pursuits in her home.
The third is aubreyandlindsay.blogspot.com and is written by a Toronto couple, Aubrey and Lindsay, (go figure) who have renovated their home on a budget. Everything they could do themselves, they did, and they did it well.
I love stories about reworking items from worn-out and ugly, to purposeful and lovely. It requires imagination, resourcefulness, and drive to complete a task that may seem like a waste of time to the average person. DIY-ers are way above average. And they end up with a cool, custom stuff.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Hauser, since 1949
Today I visited the Hauser Company store in Waterloo, on Weber St. Hauser is a proud Canadian company who manufactures and services what they sell. Their mandate is as follows. Our commitment is to create beautiful functional collections, hand crafted one at a time and built to last.
While walking through their showroom, the company's emphasis on lasting beauty is apparent. The finishes, the actual weight of the outdoor furniture, and the styling of the pieces boasts quality and understated elegance. The furniture is made from cast aluminum, hauser weave, vinyl weave, teak and faux teak, and in the showroom I also saw some travertine tabletops.
The company encourages the customer to design their own personal environment, so the furniture material, the finishes, and the upholstery are all custom made, determined by the customer. The website is hauserstores.com. Check out the custom upholstery section, and view the many styles and features that they offer in their furniture.
While walking through their showroom, the company's emphasis on lasting beauty is apparent. The finishes, the actual weight of the outdoor furniture, and the styling of the pieces boasts quality and understated elegance. The furniture is made from cast aluminum, hauser weave, vinyl weave, teak and faux teak, and in the showroom I also saw some travertine tabletops.
The company encourages the customer to design their own personal environment, so the furniture material, the finishes, and the upholstery are all custom made, determined by the customer. The website is hauserstores.com. Check out the custom upholstery section, and view the many styles and features that they offer in their furniture.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Online Floor plan software
Wow. I've just test-driven some very simple, visually intuitive floorplan software and produced an in-scale floorplan of my daughter's bedroom in minutes.
It's a very simple way to get the bird's eye view of a space, when you're re-designing, or trying to figure out if specific items will fit in a room. I love how it removes all of the reasons in our minds why something won't fit, and show how things re-configured can fit after all.
The secret to remember with floorplans is to not cram things in - always give lots of space for movement and openness.
Try it! The company is West Bros. Furniture and their website is www.westbrosfurniture.com. Here's the link. .
Have fun and dream about what could be in that room!
It's a very simple way to get the bird's eye view of a space, when you're re-designing, or trying to figure out if specific items will fit in a room. I love how it removes all of the reasons in our minds why something won't fit, and show how things re-configured can fit after all.
The secret to remember with floorplans is to not cram things in - always give lots of space for movement and openness.
Try it! The company is West Bros. Furniture and their website is www.westbrosfurniture.com. Here's the link. .
Have fun and dream about what could be in that room!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
New Photos to look at!
I'm so excited.
Today I saw the photos for the first time that my friend, James Woo, of Clickr Photography has just completed. Feedback from my web page, indicated that viewers wanted to see some interior design projects that I've completed. So, James came on-site, and as a result has some great shots of my work.
If you'd like to see them, please click here Sandy's post to view them.
Enjoy.
Today I saw the photos for the first time that my friend, James Woo, of Clickr Photography has just completed. Feedback from my web page, indicated that viewers wanted to see some interior design projects that I've completed. So, James came on-site, and as a result has some great shots of my work.
If you'd like to see them, please click here Sandy's post to view them.
Enjoy.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Home Sense makes sense!
This time of year, especially on a rainy, dreary day, it feels good to look at some bright, fresh new home accessories.
Yesterday while I was out on an errand-run, I dropped in at Home Sense on Highway 24 in Cambridge. Home Sense always carries reasonably priced merchandise, but what I love is that throughout the store there are always discounted sections offering more savings on discontinued items. I always find great accessories at Home Sense. Once I picked up a round, squat, earthenware vase with a bright orange glaze-work neck on it for $5. Into the mouth of it I placed some skinny black sticks. Voila. It's perfect for my son's bathroom.
Yesterday I updated the April Decorating tip on my website. Find me at yourbeautifulhome.ca . At the bottom of the What I do page, look for April 2010 Design Tip.
Have a great day.
Yesterday while I was out on an errand-run, I dropped in at Home Sense on Highway 24 in Cambridge. Home Sense always carries reasonably priced merchandise, but what I love is that throughout the store there are always discounted sections offering more savings on discontinued items. I always find great accessories at Home Sense. Once I picked up a round, squat, earthenware vase with a bright orange glaze-work neck on it for $5. Into the mouth of it I placed some skinny black sticks. Voila. It's perfect for my son's bathroom.
Yesterday I updated the April Decorating tip on my website. Find me at yourbeautifulhome.ca . At the bottom of the What I do page, look for April 2010 Design Tip.
Have a great day.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Sherri's Living Large in Kitchener, ON
Last week I stopped by Sherri's Living Large on Victoria St. in Kitchener.
It's located between Factory Shoes and K-W Surplus at the bridge over the expressway. Sherri's, owned by Peter and Sherri Marshall, is a huge store filled to the brim with indoor and outdoor furniture and accessories.
The accessories are the main reason I keep coming back to this store. They have everything you can ever hope for, all under one roof. When I'm looking for a large floor vase or iron work wall-hanging pieces, I know that I'll find several great options to choose from at Sherri's. There are room divider screens, umbrellas in many sizes and shapes for use on a patio outdoors. Sherri's will custom order furniture from their floor models, and they have catalogues for ordering furniture from the Ashley furniture line.
The staff is very helpful and during the 20 minutes that I was in the store, there was a hustle and bustle of people coming and going and being helped by the staff of the store. The staff at Sherri's is knowledgeable about their product and if they don't know the answer to a question, they will find it out for you.
At Sherri's, there is a friendliness and warmth that is very obvious when you walk through the door. I look forward to my next trip to Sherri's.
It's located between Factory Shoes and K-W Surplus at the bridge over the expressway. Sherri's, owned by Peter and Sherri Marshall, is a huge store filled to the brim with indoor and outdoor furniture and accessories.
The accessories are the main reason I keep coming back to this store. They have everything you can ever hope for, all under one roof. When I'm looking for a large floor vase or iron work wall-hanging pieces, I know that I'll find several great options to choose from at Sherri's. There are room divider screens, umbrellas in many sizes and shapes for use on a patio outdoors. Sherri's will custom order furniture from their floor models, and they have catalogues for ordering furniture from the Ashley furniture line.
The staff is very helpful and during the 20 minutes that I was in the store, there was a hustle and bustle of people coming and going and being helped by the staff of the store. The staff at Sherri's is knowledgeable about their product and if they don't know the answer to a question, they will find it out for you.
At Sherri's, there is a friendliness and warmth that is very obvious when you walk through the door. I look forward to my next trip to Sherri's.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
A Successful New Decor Plan
I'm always encouraged by my clients who have a new lease on life because they have a freshly created design plan.
On Saturday I spent the day with a friend who hired me to consult with her about her family room. It had been a few years since she had painted and updated the space. We spent some time in the room and moved furniture around. She has a beautiful leather sectional that will the basis for the room, but she wanted a new wall colour and new accessories. She also wanted to make sure that the space was being used to the fullest potential. Oh, did I mention that she has 5 children, all living at home, and so the room gets used a lot.
She perused the decor books that I brought along, and quickly found a colour combination that she really loved. And I mean, loved. We talked about floor coverings, wall colour, lighting, accessories, toss pillows and throws for the couch. Perhaps a couple of great additions to the space would be a new sideboard cabinet and a large round glass or wood tray for the leather ottoman that sits in front of the sectional would be awesome too.
Well, we finished up and I didn't hear from her for a few days. And then she blasted back an email which said, " I PAINTED!!!! and I LOVE IT!!!!" She went on the say that she loves the colour and she now wants to carry the colour on into the rest of her home. She had already been out to purchase lighting and pillows and accessories. The email concluded with "I feel like you really jump started me and I have the energy to do it, knowing the direction I want."
Basically she needed a kick start to move ahead and boldly bring new items and inspiring ideas into her space for a fresh, spring update.
Cheers, Michelle! Enjoy your newly updated family room!
On Saturday I spent the day with a friend who hired me to consult with her about her family room. It had been a few years since she had painted and updated the space. We spent some time in the room and moved furniture around. She has a beautiful leather sectional that will the basis for the room, but she wanted a new wall colour and new accessories. She also wanted to make sure that the space was being used to the fullest potential. Oh, did I mention that she has 5 children, all living at home, and so the room gets used a lot.
She perused the decor books that I brought along, and quickly found a colour combination that she really loved. And I mean, loved. We talked about floor coverings, wall colour, lighting, accessories, toss pillows and throws for the couch. Perhaps a couple of great additions to the space would be a new sideboard cabinet and a large round glass or wood tray for the leather ottoman that sits in front of the sectional would be awesome too.
Well, we finished up and I didn't hear from her for a few days. And then she blasted back an email which said, " I PAINTED!!!! and I LOVE IT!!!!" She went on the say that she loves the colour and she now wants to carry the colour on into the rest of her home. She had already been out to purchase lighting and pillows and accessories. The email concluded with "I feel like you really jump started me and I have the energy to do it, knowing the direction I want."
Basically she needed a kick start to move ahead and boldly bring new items and inspiring ideas into her space for a fresh, spring update.
Cheers, Michelle! Enjoy your newly updated family room!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Spring is in the air and it's time to edit my space!
Are you feeling that lift in your spirits as spring feels like it's getting closer?
The 3 or 4 sunshiny days that we've had this week are making me feel like doing some clearing out for spring! It's a great time of year for me to take a look around and re-evaluate the clutter that has accumulated in my home. My clothes closets for 5 people, work space, kitchen cupboards, and garage are all ready for some attention.
After many skating days with my kids on school field trips, the last trip went down today. Yesterday I heard that the local outdoor rink is finished - the days are becoming too warm to sustain the ice - so the skates can be put away until next winter. As far as clothing goes, the sweaters and heavier apparel taking up a lot of space in my closets can be put aside to be worn again next fall/winter.
My work storage space is a mound of papers and assorted things, so that will need some sorting out. The shelf system above my desk is going to be replaced by a more orderly, minimal ledge (maybe tonight Sal?) and hopefully that will minimize the clutter as well. All of this involves looking at the storage space I already have, and fine-tuning it to make sure that what's stored there is still necessary. I also need to evaluate that there's no better way (conveniently or aesthetically) to store it. If there is a better way, I'm all for it!
Then it will be on to the kitchen and garage. Sigh. Maybe we'll be on our bikes soon! I know a bunch of little people who will be excited about that!
The 3 or 4 sunshiny days that we've had this week are making me feel like doing some clearing out for spring! It's a great time of year for me to take a look around and re-evaluate the clutter that has accumulated in my home. My clothes closets for 5 people, work space, kitchen cupboards, and garage are all ready for some attention.
After many skating days with my kids on school field trips, the last trip went down today. Yesterday I heard that the local outdoor rink is finished - the days are becoming too warm to sustain the ice - so the skates can be put away until next winter. As far as clothing goes, the sweaters and heavier apparel taking up a lot of space in my closets can be put aside to be worn again next fall/winter.
My work storage space is a mound of papers and assorted things, so that will need some sorting out. The shelf system above my desk is going to be replaced by a more orderly, minimal ledge (maybe tonight Sal?) and hopefully that will minimize the clutter as well. All of this involves looking at the storage space I already have, and fine-tuning it to make sure that what's stored there is still necessary. I also need to evaluate that there's no better way (conveniently or aesthetically) to store it. If there is a better way, I'm all for it!
Then it will be on to the kitchen and garage. Sigh. Maybe we'll be on our bikes soon! I know a bunch of little people who will be excited about that!
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Lighting Choices
Recently I popped in to The Lighting Shoppe in Cambridge. I adore this store and am always excited to see what the new trends they are carrying. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by Yvonne, who gave me a business card. She explained to me that many different suppliers contribute to in-store stock, and gave me a list of their websites. This store is the largest lighting showroom in Waterloo region (mainly Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge ON) and has the latest styles in chandeliers, table lamps, fixtures for wall mounts, bathrooms and outdoor lighting, to name a few. I was immediately drawn to a display of ceiling-mount drum shades in white - a minimal, modern, low, flat circular look that would be perfect inside my front door entrance. (Think, a donut shape that's squared-off).
The fixtures in the store are displayed at varying heights - some very low, and I needed to take care when walking around. The upside was that I could get a close-up on each fixture and examine the bulb type, the shades, and even look down into some of the fixtures to see how they function.
Some beautiful photos of lighting can be found on The Lighting Shoppe's suppliers' websites. Wonderfully inspiring pics are found at hinkleylighting.com. Eglo.com is a European site and has a very modern vibe online. These are dealer sites and are designed for retaillers to order from. Well worth checking out!
If you enjoy perusing online lighting that's available for purchase directly to you, then lampsplus.com is your web-destination. It's the online lighting website that I always go to for inspiration and breathtaking styles. They have a vast assortment of lighting viewed through a very easy to use website. And they exhibit some of the most original and varied designs to be found. Make sure to look at the clearance section. These are shipped from the U.S., so there's a shipping cost and a duty cost at the border.
When choosing new lighting fixtures, it's pleasurable and stimulating to look around. Be inspired! Here's to pleasing the senses aesthetically with gorgeous lighting!
The fixtures in the store are displayed at varying heights - some very low, and I needed to take care when walking around. The upside was that I could get a close-up on each fixture and examine the bulb type, the shades, and even look down into some of the fixtures to see how they function.
Some beautiful photos of lighting can be found on The Lighting Shoppe's suppliers' websites. Wonderfully inspiring pics are found at hinkleylighting.com. Eglo.com is a European site and has a very modern vibe online. These are dealer sites and are designed for retaillers to order from. Well worth checking out!
If you enjoy perusing online lighting that's available for purchase directly to you, then lampsplus.com is your web-destination. It's the online lighting website that I always go to for inspiration and breathtaking styles. They have a vast assortment of lighting viewed through a very easy to use website. And they exhibit some of the most original and varied designs to be found. Make sure to look at the clearance section. These are shipped from the U.S., so there's a shipping cost and a duty cost at the border.
When choosing new lighting fixtures, it's pleasurable and stimulating to look around. Be inspired! Here's to pleasing the senses aesthetically with gorgeous lighting!
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Cornerstone Home Interiors, Cambridge ON
Last week I had the pleasure of visiting Cornerstone Home Interiors, the largest home furniture store in Waterloo region. Located at 90 Main St in Cambridge, Ontario, it’s a 50,000 sq. ft. space which retails sophisticated European and Asian furniture. Some pieces are one-of-a-kind, which is important for those who wish to own unique items in their homes. Other items are can be customized with individually chosen upholstery. There are also many floor models which can be purchased and taken away the same day. Cornerstone boasts a mix of styles including ultra modern, metropolitan and traditional. They carry cabinetry, sofas, chairs, carpets and lighting. Located in historic downtown Cambridge, parking is free on the street out front, and the store is well-lit with natural light, large windows. It's a great destination when you're looking for an unusual statement piece of furniture to personalize your space.
© 2010 your beautiful home
© 2010 your beautiful home
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)