May 11, 2007
Special Function Rooms Become More Popular
Did you know that the home office has become the most popular “special function” room, followed by the hobby room, mud room and media room? Also popular is the separate wing or suite for kids, guests, nannies or elderly parents. (June 3, 2006)
May 11, 2007
Carefull Attention to Detail = Style
Did you know that architectural details like mouldings can give your home a sense of style? The simplest and most common mouldings are baseboards and casings around doors and windows. You might want to add stately crown mouldings (where the wall meets the ceiling), or elegant chair rails with or without applied panel mouldings in the space below. (August 5, 2006)
May 11, 2007
Energy-Smart Ideas
Did you know that 3 trees planted strategically around your house can shave up to $250 off your annual cooling bill? Other energy-smart ideas include using ceiling or electric fans to boost AC efficiency; installing new style Energy Star light bulbs; and using the BBQ instead of the stovetop or oven. (August 19, 2006)
May 11, 2007
Trends in Kitchen Design
Did you know that kitchen designs continue to evolve to reflect changing lifestyles? Many kitchens today have upgraded features such as dual-ovens, triple sinks, breakfast bars, computers, televisions and more. The configuration of the kitchen has moved from the old “work triangle” format to more of a hub-style layout. With a growing emphasis on durability and super-cleanliness, we are seeing the emergence of hands-free faucets and high-temp dishwashers. Just on the horizon are extremely resilient countertop materials like polished quartz, glass and high-grade plastic. (September 30, 2006)
May 11, 2007
The Front Hall Says It All
Did you know that your front hallway creates an all-important first impression? Consider sprucing up this area by refinishing the floor – replace worn carpet with hardwood, apply an up-to-date darker stain on existing wood floors, or install classic black-and-white tile. Your front staircase can be refreshed too. Think about refinishing the wood treads and risers, painting the handrail glossy black, or adding a sisal runner. (October 7, 2006)
May 11, 2007
Good Lighting Makes a Huge Difference
Did you know that good lighting does wonders for your home environment? Consider the size, placement and intensity of lighting fixtures. To determine chandelier size, take the dining room’s width in feet, multiply it by 2, and that number in inches will be the ideal diameter. Hang the fixture 30-34 inches from the tabletop to ensure an integrated look. And invest in dimmer switches so you can set the mood to match the occasion! (November 25, 2006)
May 11, 2007
Three Cs of Home Decor
Did you know that the three Cs of home décor – casual, comfortable and country – are set to take centre stage in 2007? According to Michael Budman of Roots Stores, we’re turning to an easy-living decorating style to create a sanctuary at home. Designer Davis Remignanti says that even the trendiest pied-a-terres in New York and Chicago are adopting a “lake retreat” attitude. How to achieve the casual look at home? Use natural fabrics like cotton, leather and wood. Bring the outdoors in with airy window coverings, screened verandas and sleeping porches. Allow surfaces to show their patina – distressed wood, weathered tin and warm-toned copper. Upholster oversized couches and chairs in canvas or even painters’ drop sheets! Then, put your size 12s up on the nearest coffee table, spill your coffee on the arm of the chair, watch the dog hair blow gently across the pine floor and laugh! (February 24, 2007)
May 11, 2007
Small Space Decorating
Did you know that small living spaces demand a unique approach to design and decorating? In his new book, “How to Live in Small Spaces,” design guru Sir Terence Conran says one should use spatial tricks and ingenious storage methods to fool the eye and ensure no square inch of space is wasted. He suggests lots of custom built-ins, clean lines, natural light and a simple paint palette. In NOTL, many neighbourhoods are comprised of small homes on small lots – and therein lies the charm and uniqueness! (May 5, 2007)
