We Answer Wednesday - Lightening up a dark wood kitchen

"We renovated our kitchen about 10 years ago.  We chose a dark espresso stain cabinet.  Even though we have decent natural light, we feel the kitchen looks a bit on the dark side.  How can we lighten up the kitchen without replacing the cabinetry doors?"

The lighter and brighter kitchens are definitely trending right now but the espresso look is still a choice that people are drawn too, not everyone likes the airy feel of a white kitchen.  But if you want to lighten up your darker kitchen there are some easy and simple changes you can make (or hire someone to install for you) that won't break the bank!

Try adding a backplash tile that is light in colour and even explore the idea of a glossy finish (this will allow light to bounce off of the tile and into the room).  even a glass tile can do wonders - it's like adding jewelry to an outfit....Another tip, try installing (or have a professional) install some under valance lighting - this will add more light to your kitchen.



Photo from DecorPad

 Try replacing your counter top with a stone counter top in a light tone.  This is also a popular trend for 2017.  With a lighter counter top the whole kitchen will look lighter, think of all of the surface space in a fresh and lighter tone....


 Photo from DecorPad

 Try brightening up your kitchen with some lighter paint - you will be amazed at the low cost and the big difference it can make.


Photo from HGTV

 Consider a partial kitchen update...yes this is more expensive but it might be worth it if you feel your kitchen is just too dark.  this might also be a good idea down the line if you are looking to make updates for resale...replace or paint your upper cabinets in a lighter paint.  some call this a two tone kitchen other call this a Tuxedo kitchen and we will be seeing more of this look in the coming years.  this can really open up and brighten up the look in your kitchen.

 
 Photo from Bright Green Door

Other tricks....
- take a look at the wattage of your light bulbs and go brighter!
- burnt out light bulb? be sure to replace them!
- do you have pendant lighting? Maybe swap out our pendants for something with a glass or chrome finish to allow more light in the room
- if you have dark stools, swap them out for a lighter colour or even a chrome
- opt for appliances with a reflective surface
- can you add more pot lighting to your kitchen?
- lighten up that floor, whether it is wood or tile a lighter tone will make a big difference
 

 

We Answer Wednesday - Christmas Tree Ideas for Small Spaces

"I really want a Christmas Tree but I'm in a small apartment.  Any ideas how I can still have a tree without taking over my whole space?"

You can absolutely have a tree in your space - Christmas trees aren't just for large homes!

Depending on the size of your space and where you want to put your tree you may need to get a little creative but we have some ideas for you.


A smaller tree can still make a big impact!  To make it look even larger without all the bulk try placing it on a stool.  This image has a mini tree placed in a steel bucket (for a bit of a rustic feel) and propped up on a stool.  this gives the tree height but the stool isn't big and full.



Photo from House Beautiful Magazine

Instead of a whole tree why not make use of some branches? They are easy to find this time of year and they are an affordable option.  We love the simplicity of some evergreen branches in a glass vases, add some colourful decor and you are set.

 
Photo from Buzzfeed.com

This idea is nothing short of brilliant!  This 'half tree' (aka Corner or Flat back Christmas trees) takes up half the space of a full Christmas tree but you can push it right up against the wall so it won't eat into your living space.  Half the lights, half the decorations so half the work!




Photo from Treetopia Christmas Trees

 Want the look of a gorgeous Christmas tree without all the work and mess? Try a hanging Christmas tree canvas.  IKEA knows all about decorating and furnishing small spaces and they knew that the Christmas tree would also be a challenge - so they came up with this!




Photo from bricobistro.com

 Have you heard of a pencil tree? These are tall and skinny trees, they are perfect for anyone short on extra space as they don't fill the room but they are full of holiday cheer.



 Photo from martahome.com 

Maybe you want something child friendly? This wall hanging felt tree is perfect for the little ones in your life.  It's fun and festive and bonus - it's mess free! It's child height so even the little ones can participate in decorating too - perfect for parents, grandparents or aunts and uncles! 



 Photo from Etsy

The shape of a tree can be an inspiration, too! Use cards, twigs, photos, branches and even lights to create a beautiful wall art display in honour of the Christmas tree.  





 Photo from PSbyDila.com

Another fun and simple idea is the Christmas tree wall vinyl - this is so easy to put up and it won't cause nay damage to your walls.  There are so many different designs you might find it challenging to pick one!


Photo from Chrisymas.com 

5 Home Staging Tricks - that work!

We have been staging homes for the resale (and new home market) for a number of years now and while styles and trends change there are definitely some tried and true home staging tricks that work every time!


1. Inviting entry with potted plants or flowers - this little trick makes everyone feel welcome, it adds a splash of colour and a 'breath of fresh air'.  The front door is the first impression so you want to start off on the right foot! Be sure to maintain these plants/flowers and keep it seasonal for maximum effect.

 
Photo from entrop.com

2. Extra pillows on the bed and the sofa - fluffy pillows have a real warmth to them and they certainly add that element to a living room, family room and bedroom.  Throw pillows also allow you to add an extra design touch to a space - a pop of colour and some pattern make a space look instantly fresh and with a designer's touch.

Here are some great sofa styling tips: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/129478558012168114/

Here are some great bed styling tips: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/107945722293574579/


Photo from 2ladiesandachair.com

3.  Clean white towels - ever notice that in boutique and luxury hotels you always see these plush, clean white towels and robes? Well, take that cue and stage your bathroom with some fresh and clean pure white towels, buyers will immediately think of luxury, relaxation or a spa experience - play into that feeling and use it to your advantage. This simple addition will make buyers associate that feeling with your bathroom.


 Photo from flickr.com

4. Setting the table - staging is all about presenting the home in it's best light, but we want to be sure to make buyers feel like this is their next home not like they are just visiting. By setting the table you are 'setting the scene', buyers will be able to better picture themselves hosting a dinner party, entertaining for the holidays or having Sunday family dinner.  It's another emotional connection made with staging that helps the buyers feel more at home.


 Photo from rjkhomesolutions.com

5. Add a pop of colour in the kitchen - the kitchen is one the hot spots when it comes to selling your home.  Buyers want a  clean and current looking kitchen, and they are willing to pay more for a home that has updated kitchens and bathrooms.  But even the most stunning kitchen can look a little flat in the listing photos - try adding a fresh pop of colour, we love a bowl of lemons, yellow always photographs well and it really attracts the eye.  But fresh flowers, fruit bowl, a tray with wine, a colourful tea kettle are all great ideas to add just a little accent to the kitchen without distracting or over powering the space.

 


Photo from ZDesign at Home

We all know that cleaning, decluttering and repairs are needed plus we know that updates in paint, flooring and lighting make great returns and great impressions on buyers.  Current finishes in bathrooms and kitchens are also a hot commodity but there are certain staging tricks that really connect with buyers

2017 Colour of the Year: Greenery

So it was just announced  by Pantone that the Colour of the Year for 2017 is Greenery. 

Pantone describes this shade as "greenery is a fresh and zesty yellow-green shade that evokes the first days of spring when nature’s greens revive, restore and renew. Illustrative of flourishing foliage and the lushness of the great outdoors, the fortifying attributes of Greenery signals consumers to take a deep breath, oxygenate and reinvigorate."

 

This colour definitely makes us think of spring and really brings us in tune with nature.

We knew that 2017 trends would definitely have a real connection with nature with the resurgence of wood and wood grain and a real draw towards warmer and natural textures this colour fits right in with that scene.

 This colour is on the bolder side with a lot of energy but you can bring it into your space with ease....

1. Shades of Green - when it comes to decorating with the colour of the year (any year) make that colour fit into your style so that might means finding a shade that is less saturated and one that is softer (or the opposite) and then bringing that into your space.  Don't worry so much about taking the trend literally.


 Photo from HGTV

2. Quantity - at first, be sure to add a small amount just to test the waters and keep it simple with accessories like decor pieces, florals, pillows - things that aren't big budget breakers but will give the room a fresh look.  if you like what you see you can always add more but small changes can give you big results!




 Photo from Home Bunch

3.  Mix it in with your current scheme - you might think that this colour isn't overly versatile but that's not true! It really works well with so many other colours - it pairs beautifully with neutrals like grey, navy, white, chocolate brown and more plus it plays well with other colourful options like yellow, pink, cobalt blue....

 
Photo from adore home

4. Add life to any room - the wonderful part about this colour is that it is true to mother nature and it gives every single space a fresh new burst of life! Try adding a floral arrangement, a bowl of apples (or even limes) or a plant in any room and you won't believe what a change it makes.


Photo from mylusciouslife.com



5. Play with pattern - adding a splash of the trendy colour into a mix of different patterns will really give your space a designer look and feel.  we love this combination of the softer greenery colour paired with white and this denim and navy blue.


 Photo from calicocorners.com

6. Works with any style - some colours don't translate well with certain styles of decor but greenery really works with any style.  If you love a Country look it works with florals and gingham, like a more traditional style? Try adding some greenery in a toile print or in some botanical art.  If you are more modern and streamlined - greenery is a great splash in art or pillows even a great accent chair.  If your style is more vintage or retro - the possibilities are endless!


Photo from Architectural Digest

7. Make it interesting and a little unexpected - this might not for everyone but if you are someone who really likes this colour (or any colour) and you aren't afraid to show it - use it where one might not expect to see it!  Areas like lighting - a colourful pendant in a kitchen can make a big and bold statement. Furniture pieces like a sofa or bar stools.  Wall paper accent walls in a front entry. Paint a piece of furniture that needs a bit of a makeover.


Photo from concepts & Colorways

You can absolutely 'take a risk' with greenery and bring it into your space.  Even just the smallest addition of this beautiful colour will do wonders for your space!

We Answer Wednesday - How to create a welcoming guest room

"Christmas break is coming soon and we have out of town guests staying with us for a few days, how can we make them feel at home when staying with us?"

Hosting out of town guests is a part of the holidays and you definitely want your guests to feel comfortable.  When it comes to hosting house guests you really want to think of the details - it really is the small things that make the difference!

It's always nice to have a guest room that looks and feels like a bedroom - you really want your house guests to feel like they are welcome and a part of your home.  A cohesive looking bedroom is always a welcoming touch.  We always recommend decorating a guest bedroom in a soothing and calming theme and in neutral colour tones.

 

These elements are musts when having guests stay over for a few days:

1. Fresh bedding and an extra blanket and pillows
2. Night stand with lamp and alarm clock
3. Trash bin
4.Tissues
5. WiFi password
6. Clean towels (a set for each guest)
7. Available outlet to charge phones, tablets etc...
8. Bottled water and snacks
9. Clothing hangers and space in the closet (and/or dresser)



It's always a great idea to stock up on some extra toiletries too - everyone always forgets something...

- toothbrush
- tooth paste
- dental floss
- ibuprofen
- hair dryer
- shampoo and conditioner
- q-tips
- hand lotion



Some little extras that add a little something special...

- fresh flowers or potted plant
- Spare reading materials (books or magazines)
- Notepad and pen


Be sure to tour your guests around the house and let them know where to find essentials like bathrooms, laundry, coffee and how to work the TV.