2011 - Time for a change

Well 2011 is here! What are your new year's resolutions? The new year is always a great time to refresh, rejuvenate and renew - so why not make some changes to your environment??

You don't need a lot of money or any to make some changes in your space to make it feel fresh and new just some creativity!

Try making your bed in a new way - check out this link for four fun ways to re-dress your bed www.reallifedecorating.com/bedroomdecor/bedroom_onebed.html

Try switching up how you place your pillows and throw blankets on your sofa . Keep pillows and blankets crisp and streamlined for a sleek look or try keeping it more laid-back by placing the pieces in a casual and relaxed way. If you have different size and colour/pattern pillows move them onto other furniture pieces that can really change your room.

You could try moving the furniture in a different placement. for example in the winter position the major pieces so they are facing the fireplace.

Change up your sofa and coffee table decor pieces with items you find around the house. Books, photos, decorative bowls, collectibles like shells etc...can really change the mood and ambiance of the space.

In the kitchen, add some natural elements like bamboo, flowers or even sticks (very low maintenance) on your kitchen island. A fruit bowl can also add colour and a welcoming feeling for guests.

Create a gallery in a hallway or up the stairs using family photos. It's a wonderful feeling to be surrounded by family and a great use of photo frames (I find many people have a bunch lying around that they received as gifts) check out this link for some ideas on how to create a gallery wall www.ehow.com/how_4721492_gallery-wall.html

In the bathroom create a display area using basic bathroom items and some empty glass vases. In my bathroom we have an open shelving piece where I mostly have wicker baskets but I kept one shelf open and used glass vases filled with bars of soap, cotton balls and Epsom salts it was easy, inexpensive and gives the space a spa-feel.

Start the new year off with a bang and create a beautiful space that will inspire and refresh the new you!!

'Tis the season to be stylish...

Yes, it is almost that time of year again...the holiday season is upon us! I just love this time of year when everything is decorated and everywhere looks so festive. So have you started your holiday decorating?

Not sure where to begin?

Start with a colour palette and if you don't think there is much of a choice beyond the traditional red, green and white, think again....

Holiday decor of the season has really changed. You can opt for the traditional colours but why not go metallic? Silver and gold look so elegant and timeless and paired with white or red, very sophisticated. Or maybe you prefer something fun and funky, try splashes of turquoise, fuchsia and orange - brighter is better! Or maybe a more natural and organic look is more your style, try natural tones and decor pieces straight from nature with edible elements such as cranberries. Are you more Hollywood chic? Even glamourous high heel stockings and animal print ornaments are readily available.

Check out your favourite stores, they always have something special for this time fo year.

Whatever your taste and style be sure to celebrate with decor it can really put anyone in the mood for the holidays....

Go BIG or Go Home!?

We all know the saying' go big or go home!' but I say "go big at home!'

What do I mean by that?

Big items in the home can really set the tone for your decor aesthetic. Here are some big ideas for your home:

- A big piece of art in a dining, living or bedroom really makes a statement even if it is not bright and colourful even a simple black/white piece can really be bold in a room.

- A big chair such as a chair and a half, is a perfect cozy spot for morning coffee or sexy and sophisticated with a glass of wine.

- A big and bold area rug in a living room! It is like art but on the floor

- Big fluffy pillows on a bed in the master or guest suite radiate luxury and chic comfort

- A big storage piece such as an armoir or credenza looks way more stylish (and is more practical) than having several smaller storage pieces in a space

- A big ottoman looks clean and modern and is super practical and multifunctional too

Even in a smaller space such as a condo or loft big items can work, just select the important ones like the chair or storage piece and don't over stuff the room. A few bigger items will really draw the eye in, too many big items will make any space feel tight and small. The bigger items should set the tone and then balance the room out with smaller details ...Big is Beautiful!