How to Decorate with Stripes

Stripes are a classic and even better they can work with any decor style!  If you have read any of our posts, you know that we love a print and mixing patterns.  So if you are thinking of trying out a pattern in your space consider a stripe - it's very transitional, it come in all scales and colours, too! You can't go wrong!  Not sure where to add this classic pattern? We have some ideas for you!

Wall treatment - whether it's wall paper or a streamlined paint job - try stripe son the wall.  You can get as big and bold as you like in terms of colour and scale - or opt for a classic neutral. It could fill an entire room or just an accent wall.  We also love to layer our patterns, so don't be shy to add some art, photography and mirrors over your striped wall.



Pillows - this is an easy addition (or subtraction) in a room.  Adding some printed pillows can completely elevate the look of your room.  There's just something about a pattern that adds a designer look to a space.  Some of the great things about pillows is that they aren't permanent, the selection is endless and they are affordable!  On a sofa, side chair, bed - they work everywhere!



Furniture - this might be an intimidating step for many but trust us!  A stripe furniture piece can really add a WOW factor to a space.  We do recommend sticking with a neutral palette if you are opting for a pattern piece - it's easier to work with long term as you want to change up your decor.  And for someone that likes neutrals this can add another sophisticated element to your room, mix it with some other patterns and some solid to give it a designer look.




 Drapery - We love what window coverings can do to a space - from a functional side but also a decor side - sure they block the sunlight (or an unpleasant view) but also add a softness and again, visual interest in a room.  Whether it's panels or roman blinds - we love them both!  This is a great option for a living space, dining room and a bedroom - we love a stripe window treatment in a kids' room so timeless and it can grow up with them!



Floor covering - we love area rugs in any room, they add another layer of softness, they are nice on bare feet,  they pull a room together and of course, it's another opportunity to add some pattern.  Area rugs can be pricey depending on the size and material you choose, so if you are concerned about budget consider a classic pattern like a stripe.  A stripe area rug is a classic (we have said this a few times, but it's true!).



Outdoor furniture and accessories - decorating your outdoor living space is no longer boring! There are so many options for furniture, umbrellas and accessories, too.  We love the look of a stripe in an outdoor space, it's so fresh and clean! Pillows, umbrellas, cushions and even rugs - it's up to you!

 

We Answer Wednesday - How to Layer your rugs

"I see cowhide rugs everywhere.  I purchased one but it's too small for my living room.  How can I use it ?"

Cowhide (real or faux) is a great way to add some natural animal elements to a room and also some texture.  We love how every cowhide is unique - it's adds a cool and organic element to a room.  But you are right the size can be tricky especially in a larger room. 

Try this - it's actually a great trick for any area rug that you want to use that's too small.

Layer it!

Yes, that's right - layer it!  OK let us explain.  The cowhide is going to add a great graphic pop or natural texture to your space.  Underneath the cowhide use another rug in the correct size - in a neutral tone (we highly recommend a rug that is close in tone to the wall to wall flooring).  We love the look of another natural textured rug like a sea grass or sisal or recycled leather but it doesn't have to be. 

Here are some examples:



Here the black and white cowhide is layered over a natural sisal - the mix of textures adds an extra element to the room.  Also the black and white pillows add even more visual interest in the space.

 Try layering multiple rugs in one room.  Keep the largest one in a neutral and then the medium one is next and lat the smallest.  Feel free to lay them in an off set manner.  They don't need to be completely centered and perfect. We like the look in this clean and modern space.  The walls being white allow for a 'busier' floor.  Notice the cream rug is layered with a black and white stripe and a cow hide.  It adds such a sophisticated feel to the space.




This is also a great way to update a space that has wall to wall carpet

 

You might think that this technique doesn't make a difference but it does!  The larger rug pulls the eye out and wide and the smaller rug adds a pop of colour/print so the room still looks big and spacious whereas just having an area rug that's too small will make the room appear small as well. In order for this to be effective - the largest rug must be of the proper size for the room.



You can also angle the rugs - they don't have to be straight on and centered. This can work in any room, too! 



This is a great way to still use your favourite area rugs even though they are too small  !

7 Easy Ways to add a little Colour to your world

It's officially November and we can all see it, not just on the calendar but outside, too!  The days are shorter, the leaves have fallen off of the trees and those beautiful fall colours have turned to grey....everything is just a little dreary.  So maybe it's time for a change, a dash of colour and some fun at home.

The easiest way to make a change to your space to liven it up is with colour.  Here are some of favourite (and easy) ideas to add some pop to your decor.

1 - Florals.  This is perfect for anyone non-committal, fresh flowers don't last for after about 10 days - they will need replacing. Or try some silk flowers, these keep, they are low maintenance and you can bring them out when ever our home needs an extra boost! They look great in bedrooms, bathrooms, on coffee tables and more....



2 - Art.  such an easy way to add as much or as little colour as you like.  Any style of art piece can have colour from abstract to landscapes - go with what you love.  You can use the colours in that piece as an inspiration for adding even more colour in that room, so not, it's up to you!






3 - Area rugs.  Think of them as art on the floor.  This is a great way to make a statement in any room.  Mixing colour and pattern can really transform a room.  The options are endless!



4 - Drapery.  A fun way to add colour, pattern and texture to your space.  This can really wake up a neutral space.  Like area rugs - the choices are plentiful...




 5 - Small furniture pieces.  Keep your main furniture pieces neutral but try adding an accent chair, side table or stool in a colour.  This is unique and it's a great way to show off your personality.  We love this kitchen with orange stools - it really adds some fun to a mostly white on white space.



6 - Decor pillows.  This is probably the easiest way to give your room a colourful update.  We love to mix bold colours, patterns and complimentary colours against a neutral sofa or bed.



7 - Accent wall.  If you feel you need a bigger change, consider a painting accent wall in a fun colour or splashy wallpaper.





 

We Answer Wednesday - 10 ways to use wicker/rattan indoors

"Summer is almost over but I love the look and laid back feel of my rattan furniture.  Is there a way to bring rattan pieces inside so I can keep that summer style all year?"

It is so sad to see summer on it's way out - no matter how great the summer is it never seems long enough.  Rattan aka wicker furniture definitely has an outdoor air about it but it can definitely be brought indoors.  You definitely want to avoid bringing certain outdoor pieces inside, many are too bulky and don't "translate" well inside.  If you love rattan than use it indoors and follow these tips.

1.  Mix. Don't have an all rattan set like a dining set indoors.  It just looks like you brought the BBQ inside.  Try this instead. The rattan chairs have an indoor look with clean parson style legs and the slip covered captain chairs in a light airy canvas fabric help to soften all of the wood tones and textures.  This dining space has that breezy and laid back style but it still looks like an indoor space.



2. Moderation. A little bit can go a long way.  Try a few accents on indoor pieces.  This contemporary kitchen table with a touch of rattan on the seats only gives the space a casual look but doesnt change the style of the space.  It adds an organic and natural touch to the space adding warmth and texture.



3. Decor. Rattan has so much texture and warmth but maybe using it in furniture is too much for you or maybe it doesn't work with your style.  Try using wicker baskets for storage and decor. We love the look of this wicker plate/basket 'gallery wall' it really softens up the modern streamlined look in this space and it gives the whole space such a unique style and up against the white washed brick wall it is a great contrast.



4. More than just seating.  Rattan is used in many pieces of furniture not just chairs, look at using a rattan 'trunk' as a coffee table or maybe a toy box.







 5. Streamline. Be sure to use items that have clean lines and feel free to add some great pops of colour and pattern but use indoor fabrics so the whole piece looks and feels like it belongs inside. We also love this image because of the wicker basket by the fireplace.



6. Colour.  Don't love the natural look of rattan but love the texture? Paint it!!  It is so easy to do.  be sure to do it outdoors and choose any spray paint colour you like!  It's a great way to customize your furniture on a budget.  Go as big and bold as you like



 
7. Tight on space? Try stacking low wicker ottomans for coffee tables, end tables and maybe even some spare seating.  These are so versatile and we love them!



8.  Bedroom. Wicker and rattan have a great way of making the bedroom cozy.  We love it as a textured headboard.  It looks amazing against a bold accent wall and the tone and texture add so much warmth to the space.  It is a great addition to a coastal or beach inspired room.



9. Lighting.  Rattan and wicker  light shades look great either as table lamps, floor lamps or pendants.  The texture is so organic and sculptural.  It works with so many styles of decor.



10. Alternative, sisal.  Sisal and rattan/wicker have similar tones and textures. If you are looking to add this natural texture and tone to your space but not finding furniture pieces you like or don't want to buy new furniture pieces a sisal rug on the floor.  A classic casual area rug gives any space a casual look and works with most styles of decor.

Decorating Open Concept Spaces

The open concept plan is still very popular.  Buyers love it because it is so open and fluid.  You have many options for furniture placement and layout - open concept allows you to do so much in a smaller space.  But open concept can be intimidating and tough to visualize.

As home stagers, we understand how buyers get 'stumped' when they see a big and empty open concept space.  Where do I put my sofa? TV? dining space?  Will my furniture fit? It's very intimidating and over whelming.  This is why staging is so important.  when we stage a home we not only make it pretty for pictures but we think about living and entertaining in the space.  We think about the common questions that buyers have.

Here's a great example of an open concept living/dining room in a townhouse.


It's a great space for living and entertaining.  Seeing this property vacant you would never guess that you could have dining for six, a sectional and an armchair plus plenty of room to walk around.  How did we make this work? Well, the size and scale of furniture is important but so is the placement.  We started off with this table and 4 chairs in the dining space.  Believe it or not, with 2 chairs placed on either side of the table this room looked smaller.  We re-positioned the chairs - 2 on one side and 2 at either end (as captain chairs) we then added the bench in the cream tone to create a common thread with the sectional sofa.  By placing the bench on the side of the table closest to the living room, we opened up the sight lines making the whole space look wider and therefore bigger. The chairs placed there instead of the bench made the whole space feel a bit cramped.





A sectional adds so much seating and a clean line which is one of the reasons we love them.  We used the light cream tone because it is neutral and it brightens up the space.  We used a mix of bold and pattern pillows to bring some life into the room.  An over sized art piece in an abstract style adds visual interest to the room and it makes the room look big.  We use area rugs for a few reasons: they add some soft texture, colour and pattern to a room but they also help define the space.  This rug helps buyers visually understand this space is the living room and over there is the dining area.  It's like building a wall.

 

You can apply the same ideas to a condo space.

 
In this condo, we choose the largest possible sofa that would fit in the space without making it feel and look cramped.  From there we selected some functional but smaller scale pieces so the room still felt spacious and was still functional.  We played with texture like faux fur, knits, chenille, leather, wood and metal instead of big, bold bursts of colour.  We also used an area on the diagonal help widen the space (this doesn't work in every space but it did here).  We also thought about storage and surface space.  The cabinet is acting as media storage, plus a liquor cabinet and storage for board games. The 2 tier coffee table offers great surface space when entertaining and the trunk side table adds some character and personality but also some solid surface space for a cup of coffee or glass of wine. The window dressings are not yet installed but we chose a simple white linen tone for a few reasons: the condo restrictions but the light white tone will help to keep the space looking bright and light and they won't be a distraction. 



Here's another example of an open concept condo.  Here we played with some bold colour to make it pop and look bright.  This condo is on the north side so it get minimal light.  We played with some colour and texture to get maximum impact.  What we did here was first decide on where the TV would be placed.  From there we figured out the furniture layout.  When you live in a space be sure to make it work for your lifestyle. We added some fun print on the floor with an area rug and we also added a work space in a corner nook.  We used a glass console table - plenty of surface space but no bulk.

 

What you will notice these images have in common:
- sofas: we chose the largest possible sofas to maximize on seating and the other furniture is a bit smaller
- lighting: we do not have matching table lamps on matching end tables, we didn't have the space.  Instead we have floor and table lamps around the room to help spread the light around the room
- area rug: to add some colour, pattern and/or texture; they also define the rooms and pull the space together



Remember the following when it comes to decorating an open concept space:
- size and scale matter but look for the largest dining table and sofa that will work in the space.  Lots of little items will make it look and feel cramped.
- glass is a great way to get surface space without the bulk
- area rugs help define spaces without building walls
- a consistent colour concept with make the space look fluid and make it feel larger
- layer your light so add table lamps, floor lamps, under valance light in the kitchen
- get creative with nooks and corners - think storage, organizing or work spaces.
- think lifestyle.  make the space work with your life

We Answer Wednesday - All About Area Rugs

I know my living room needs an area rug. But how do I know which size to get? How do I place my furniture around it and what are the best materials for area rugs?

Great question and I think many other are in the same boat as you.  Area rugs creates warmth in a space, they also pull a room together - so they play a very important role.  Area rugs can also add softness to a space and depending on what style you choose, they can act as 'art' on the floor by adding a big burst of colour and pattern into the space.

But picking the right size is crucial.  A rug that's too small will make the room feel small and an area rug that's too big can chop off a room from the rest of the house.  So how do you pick the right size and place it properly in the room? And which material do you choose?



Size of Rug
- start by measuring the room.  Measure the width and the length.  Then subtract 2-3 feet off of each measurement and that's the size you should have.  You can opt for something that is custom cut and bound and get (more or less) the precise size or make purchase of something that is close to the measurement you just calculated.

- standard rug sizes range from: 3x5, 5x8, 9 x12 (sometimes you can find odd sizes but these are standard). If you need a larger one or you have an oddly shaped room consider getting a piece of carpet cut to size and bound.  It sounds expensive but it's usually very affordable



Placement of Rug
- For a dining layout,  measure the length and width of your dining table and add 2 feet on each side. Most dining room tables require a rug that's at least 8 feet wide.

- For a bedroom layout, extend a rug from the bottom 2/3 of the bed. Alternatively, you could also place two runners on each side or a single runner at the foot of the bed.

- a good rule of thumb when deciding where to put a rug, make sure at least the front two legs of each piece of furniture in the space sit on the rug.  Otherwise it can look like it is just floating and it won't pull the room together

 

Material
- When it comes to 'best' material a lot of that really depends on what the room will be used for and the style.  Wool rugs are the most expensive and they are top quality - they are soft, they wear well and they have a range of colours but you would want them to be cleaned by a professional so this probably isn't a great option for say a kids' playroom. Opt for a synthetic blend for a similar look that's just as durable for a space like that

-  Natural materials like sisal, jute and sea grass are very affordable and they are neutrals so they work with any colour scheme.  Keep in mind they have a more casual look and they tend to be a bit on the scratchy side.  A synthetic or nylon rug that has the same texture and look with be kinder on the feet. But if you want to get creative the natural sisal, jute or seagrass can be a great backdrop for a cowhide rug(see the image just above).  It still pulls the room together and you get texture and then the pop from the cowhide.

- Flat woven kilim and dhurrie rugs are usually made of cotton or wool, are a fun way to add pattern to a room.  But they are thin so they don't hold up as well in the long run.  They are best for low traffic areas but if you love the idea of updating your decor regularly with splashes of colour and don't mind replacing the area rug every few years - this could also work for you

- Rug pads will also help prolong the life of your rugs and the floor underneath.  You can find some very affordable rugs pads that will feel great and stand up to traffic. Plus it will help prevent the rug from slipping all over the place.

 

Pattern or Solid?
If your room got a lot going on, try a solid color or neutral rug to bring things down to earth—or make a basic sofa pop with a patterned rug.

Versatile Neutrals
A neutral rug forms a solid foundation when you want to
layer on rich textures, patterns or colors. Think of it as the canvas for the rest of your room.

Playful Patterns
If your furniture is a solid color or neutral, try a patterned rug. For foolproof color coordination, match the secondary color in the rug to your sofa or key furniture.

 Solid Colors
A monochromatic rug complements patterned furniture by grounding it in a primary palette. In a living room, try matching the rug to the secondary color in a patterned sofa.

IDS 2015: Bold Area Rugs

Bold colours in area rugs were prominent this year at the IDS in Toronto and I have to say - I was thrilled!   I love bold colour and pattern and although I do love a bold piece of furniture, I traditionally stick to neutrals when it's a larger, more expensive item like a sofa, dining set, kitchen etc. So using colour in accessories and area rugs throughout a design is my favorite way to use it!

Colour has been a trend for a lot of years but this year it's out in full force. From rugs to vases to fridges, the trend was undeniable. Here is a few of my favorite bold area rugs for 2015…

Missoni Home 2015

 

FLOR Carpet Tiles

FLOR tiles are something I first came across at the IDS two years ago. This is a fantastic product for so many uses in your home. FLOR tiles are great because the variety of colour, pattern, size and price point make it super easy to customize to your personal taste and needs. FLOR tiles are fastened using an adhesive "FLOR Dot" which doesn't damage your hardwood floors and is easy to peel up should you want to move the rug. This is a fabulous product for families. If a carpet tile becomes stained or damaged you simply replace that particular tile. Where as if you stain or damage an area rug, you likely need to replace the entire rug. Check them out at http://www.flor.com , you’ll be amazed at the variety they offer!

AREA RUGS

Although similar to the above category, area rugs were bolder than ever before.‎ From the colours to the pattern to the texture, there were so many options I didn’t know where to start! The rich colour palettes and the assortment of pattern was one of the most exciting parts of the show. A beautiful area rug is art for your floor, and there were options galore!   This photo is of the Weavers Art booth, the selections they carry are incredible. If you're in the market for a statement area rug, check them out!

 

The perfect area rug can enhance a room SO much. Just remember to always make sure you are purchasing the correct size for your space. Buying a rug too small will make your space feel smaller and cramped.

 

Totally Floored!

This company and it's product came across my desk today and I have to say - I love it!!

This easy to install carpet flooring system truly is genius!  It doesn't damage the floor, it can easily be cut to fit any space and you have options because if you spill or make a mess, you can actually pull up the carpet piece and wash it! and, if totally necessary simply replace that carpet tile with a new one....

It's also super duper easy to order exactly the amount you need.

 

I also love the selection, you've got everything from animal prints, stripes to texture cable knit.

www.flor.com

For a bold look check out the 'rake me over' collection.  A graphic chevron in any colour combo you like

For a cozy cabin vibe, check out the 'sweater weather' collection.  I love it in pearl or chalk

For a contemporary but neutral loo, check out the 'lacebark' collection.



You can opt for wall-to-wall or area rugs.  these are great in high traffic areas especially if you have pets or children, or both....

YES, carpet can be exciting!!!

Magic Carpet

All About Area Rugs - shopping, sizing and arranging tips

1.  To figure out your ideal rug size, measure the room's width and length and subtract 2 or 3 feet from each dimension.  The result is what you should aim for.

 

2.  A good rule of thumb when deciding where to put a rug; make sure at least the front 2 legs of each piece of furniture in the space sit on the rug.  Otherwise, it will just look like a floating piece of fabric in the space and the room will feel cluttered and small.

3.  Nothing beats the quality of a wool rug and yes, it is the most expensive kind but it also feels the softest, has the richest colours and wears (over time) the best.  If wool just isn't in your price range try a nylon or synthetic blend for a similar look for less.

 
4.  Natural materials such as sisal, jute and sea grass work with any colour scheme but keep in mind they have a casual look and can feel a bit scratchy.  A wool or nylon rug that mimics the nubby texture of a natural fiber will feel better on your feet.

5.  Flat-women kilim and dhurrie rugs, which are usual made of cotton or wool, are a fun way to add pattern to a room (I have one in my from entry).  But they do not hold up as well as rugs with a pile.

 

6.  Standard rug sizes range from 3 feet by 5 feet to 9 feet by 12 feet.  If you need a larger one or have an oddly shaped room consider getting a piece of carpet cut to size and bound (I did that in my kids' bedrooms)

7.  Don't forget a rug pad!  It will prolong the life of your rug and the floor underneath.

Perfect Pairing: Hot new designs for three very different dream teams

MIAC and WEST ELM

The curators at Santa Fe's Museum of Indian Arts and Culture (MIAC) are working with West Elm to create prints and palette normally found on baskets and textiles in MIAC's permanent collection into geometric, hand-loomed wool and cotton rugs.  Looking to make a bold yet organic statement? These rugs are the perfect fit.





DIESEL and SCAVOLINI

Think modular kitchens as comfortable as your favourite jeans.  This pair unites the Italian flair of kitchen design with an industrial edge that Diesel is know for.  Blending social kitchen design to accommodate space for working, cooking and entertaining with materials like oak and steel with a vintage feel. The result: a modern yet lived-in kitchen.








PAOLA NAVONE and CRATE & BARREL

Italian designer Paola Navone brings her Mediterranean influence and sea side inspiration to Crate & Barrel..  With a cool blue, crisp white and bright red colour palette, we are seeing a variety of accessories from lighting to dishes, rugs and furniture.  This is the first of three collections planned for the pair. check out what could be the future classics - the tall-back Windsor chair, caged pendant lights and indigo splattered dinnerware.