Bedroom Makeover: Easy tips to change your space

We love a makeover! Many times small changes make a huge impact in your home. Changing some accessories, or a coat of paint can make a space feel brand new. Many people hesitate when redecorating because they think it is going to cost a lot. There are so many simple changes that can make a difference in your space.

Here is an example of a bedroom we recently made some changes too. For a minimal budget, we were able to overhaul this room into a more contemporary space with a few different accent colours and accessories.

BEFORE:

Beiges and warm tones weren't really the style we were looking for anymore. By changing the wall colour and removing the red, the look is more contemporary and fresh.

AFTER:
Changing the paint on the walls to a pure white and adding an abstract art piece in cooler tones really make the space feel lighter. The addition of new drapery and a few pillows in complementary colours adds some depth. The lamp is an interesting shape and in a colour found in the art. These small changes make a huge impact!

We Answer Wednesday - How To Update My Dining room

"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 Eifflel 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!

We Answer Wednesday - 9 Gallery Wall Ideas

“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 making a gallery 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. Check out http://www.wft.com – it’s one of our absolute favorite sites!  

2. Mirrors
All shapes and sizes! Do you want an antique mirror? Do you love colored framed mirrors? Chrome 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, perhaps the first letter of your last 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 better way than to showcase a sentimental family heirloom!

 

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 décor items – the options are truly 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 gallery wall.

 

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!

 

10 Secrets About Staging Your Home For Resale

Realistic or not...every home buyers dreams of purchasing a home that belongs in the pages of a magazine.  Staging your home or making it look it's best, is one of the first steps to putting it on the market.  Since many eyes will be on your home during showings, open houses and all through marketing and promotional materials, this is why you will want your home to look show room ready!  Many sellers feel that doing aesthetic work in preparation to sell their home isn't necessary and that the buyers themselves will want to make those changes themselves and to their taste - but to sell a home for top dollar in any market you must set yourself apart from the others.



1.  The exterior.  Aka Curb appeal.  this is where you will make your first impression.  If the outside is unappealing that sends a strong message to buyers and they may decide to move on without even entering.  Create a lasting impression by maintaining the flower beds and lawn, sweeping the walkway and porch, power wash the siding and freshen up the door and shutters with paint.  Take a look at accessories like the door mat - is it tired looking? mailbox - is it rusted? door bell? - is it working? number plate? - is it visible, clean? 

 

2. Depersonalize.  Staging your home for sale is very different from decorating your 'new' home.  when you move in to your space you want to put your personal stamp on things, set up your furniture for your lifestyle and make it yours!  When staging your home you want to attract the most buyers using neutral tones and furniture placement that shows off flow and the size of the room - highlighting the best attributes if the home.  Keep your style and tastes to a minimum since many buyers with many different tastes will be viewing your space.

 

3.  Don't leave the walls bare.  Yes, you want to depersonalize but don't completely neuter your home and remove all warmth and signs of life.  Removing personal items like family photos, collections and religious symbols is very important but decor items like art, mirrors and clocks add some warmth to the space and can pull a room together. 

 

4.  Create furniture groupings.  Sometimes when sellers want to make a room look and feel spacious they spread out the furniture creating a big open space in the middle.  This arrangement does leave a big, open space but it looks unfinished - which is a big turn off for buyers.  It's best to create furniture groupings to help buyers envision how to use the space - for conversation, TV watching, reading and more....Be sure to not only have furniture positioned in ways that would make sense for intended use but also be sure to have clear and direct paths through the room - this will give a room a spacious look and feel.  You want buyers to envision the use of the space, how to live in the home and of course, highlight the size of the room but still keeping it cozy for conversation.

 

5.  Use Paint to Maximize Space.  The right paint colour can perform miracles.  The right paint colour can make a room appear larger.  We often recommend a fresh coat of paint throughout the home in a light tone but if you don't want to pain the whole home - paint the space that you need to enlarge the same colour as the room that is adjacent to it.  The matching colours will help the potential buyer's eyes flow seamlessly from one room into the next and make both rooms seem like one big space.  Bold colours do make a statement but they tend to make rooms feel smaller and more closed off, plus that also a personal statement and taste. 

 

6.  Add extra lighting. Lighting can make all of the difference between a good viewing and a bad one.  You want to make sure that buyers actually see the aspects and features of the home.  Natural light is a plus, so pull back the drapes, remove heavy curtains all together and bring up the blinds.  For artificial lighting, you need to have enough to make your home feel cozy during evening showings.  Add some floor lamps in dark corners, routinely check light bulbs, add high wattage bulbs or day light bulbs to existing fixtures.

 

7.  Clearly define Every Space. Most of us have a room or space that is a catch-all and it serves many purposes but when it comes to selling your home - that space never translates well to buyers.  That catch-all room becomes a confusing space. Present that space as 'something' a guest room, a desk, craft room, study, ply room - it doesn't really matter  but define what that space is.  Clear it out, remove the junk and set it up as a proper, usable space.

 

8.  Assume every space will be viewed.  Sellers like to think that buyers will just look at the main areas of the home during a viewing.  In reality, buyers will look everywhere (especially if it is a 2nd or 3rd showing). so spend some time organizing cupboards, closets and other storage spaces.  Yes, you are living there but you can keep it neat and organized.  Start with a declutter - go through your clothes and linens (no sense in bring items you don't need or want into your next home), donate or toss what you no longer need, pre-pack the extras that you want to keep and fold up the towels and bedsheets in the current linen closet - making a beautiful and organized closet.  Same for other storage spaces. A closet that is bursting at the seams sends the signal that there isn't enough storage space.

 

9.  Organize personal items with storage.  If you are still living in the home that you are selling you will still have some personal pieces like toys, mail, pet items and toiletries.  The best way to keep the home staged while you live there is to have some easy storage solutions.  Baskets are great for toys, a chest or trunk at the edge of a bed, baskets or boxes in bookcases are perfect for flyers, mail and school items.  For bigger items, like furniture try renting a POD or Storage unit. 

 

10.  Fresh Touches Impress Buyers.  Some fresh details make an impression on buyers like fresh flowers (perfect for open houses), fresh fruit in a bowl on an island is a great pop of colour and sets a friendly tone, plush towels in the bathrooms look clean and luxurious are just a few easy examples.  These quick fixes can really make a world of difference in how your property is viewed by buyers.

We Answer Wednesday - Easy Ideas for Additional Seating

"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


 

So are there options beside chairs?

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!

5 Easy Things To Do Before Showing Your Home

It is selling season and if you are selling your home you know how busy this time of year is!  Lost of Showings, Previews and Open Houses - exposure is key when selling your home!  But a last minute showing can be tricky!  Of course, you want your home to be seen but at the same time your home may not be up to par!  What do to?

 

During the week, we suggest a cleaning routine :including vacuuming as often as you can (at least the highest traffic areas, like a family room for instance), putting away clothes after each wearing (either in a hamper or back in the closet or dresser) to keep clutter under control, picking up toys and books before bed time (get the kids involved - they tidy up at school so why not at home?), wash dishes daily (if you have a chaotic schedule maybe use disposable paper plates in the short term) and wiping down surfaces like counter tops (kitchen and bath) and table tops.

To make the very best impression for buyers, try these 5 easy things.  they can be done in around 15-20 minutes, so even the very last minute showing can be a huge success!

1.  Keep the house clean.
I know easier said than done but if you tackle a bit of cleaning everyday, the house will never really get messy.  Be sure to always have the sinks and appliances clean - those two items really make an impact on buyers and it sets the tone for the rest of the house.  Stainless steel appliances? Be sure to use the right cleaners to remove finger prints and smudges. Cleaning these items alone really shouldn't take more than 3 minutes!

 


2.  Sweep the kitchen floor (and eat-in area).
Will buyers be focusing on your floor? Maybe - Maybe not....but if they step in food or sticky residue from spilled apple juice, they will notice it and it will make a bad impression. It takes minutes to do and it make the kitchen (a buyer hot spot) look and feel so much better.  A quick sweep and spot mop should take 3-5 minutes.

 

3.  Empty all trashes.
Over flowing trash is just gross and it can smell.  It take minutes to empty the cans.  Get the kids involved, send them each to a trash can and have them meet you in the garage to dump and put them back.  Again it feels clean and looks so much better.  This should take roughly 5-7 minutes.

 


4.  Make it smell good.
Removing the garbage and regular cleaning certainly help to keep the house smelling clean.  Try to keep from cooking (right before a showing) fish, grease, burnt anything can be tough to get rid of, especially in a hurry.  You can use plug-ins but opt for natural scents as florals can be overwhelming but try opening the windows - nothing beats the smell of fresh air!  another product that we love are scented flameless candles - they are battery operated, they look great and smell fantastic but DO NOT leave real lit candles in the home unattended. This should take a minute or two.

 

5.  Remove all clutter from counters and floors
Clutter is a huge distraction.  We tell our home staging clients that clutter sends a signal that the house is lacking in storage - no buyer will say "oh, they just have too much", the buyer will say "there isn't enough storage here".  Storage is an important factor for buyers. Be sure to pay special attention the the kitchen counters.  Keep extra baskets handy for toys, books, clothes and any other items that are on the floor.  Have a basket in each bedroom for a quick clean and pick up (be sure the basket can be tucked away in a closet). Depends on how much you have to do, 5 - ? minutes.







 A few extra minutes or want to add another touch Leave out some cookies or small chocolates, bottled water for a welcome touch.  It will make a memorable impression .....