Design & Decor Blog

Rocking chairs are such a nostalgic item. They make me think of the journey of life – from an infant being gently rocked to sleep by a loving mother to an elderly couple rocking back and forth together in matching chairs on a front porch. I’ve always loved curling up in a rocking chair with a good book and a steaming cup of tea and sometimes there’s just no better place to catch a catnap. But unlike the traditional rockers that these images conjure up, this particular model, pictured above, is a modern take on a classic piece of furniture. It’s available in three ready-to-ship fabrics but it can also be customized with your choice of upholstery, to tailor it to the demands of your decor. The clean lines and unfussy design make this a piece you’re sure to cherish for years to come.
Available at: stylegarage.com
Price: Starting at $1150

There’s not much to say about this pillow other than: I absolutely adore it! The oversize flower detail makes this pillow impossibly romantic and the soft dove shade is so calming, a gorgeous neutral that’s bound to match most any decor. Simple. Beautiful. Available at nordstrom.com and Yes! They do ship to Canada! Price: $75.25.

I just blogged about pretty Christmas cards and thought that while I’m at it, I may as well share our favourite gift wrap accessories, too! Below are four accessories that’ll make your parcels pretty this holiday season. Check out the full story for more ideas and availability information.

There are only two weeks left til Christmas. Have you sent your Christmas cards out yet? If you’re scrambling to get everything done, relax! We’re here to help. We’ve rounded up 12 pretty Christmas cards that we just love. Below are four of our favourites but check out the full story for the rest. PLUS, if you need any other suggestions for Christmas decorating and entertaining, or if you need holiday recipe ideas, check out Holiday Central where you’ll find everything you need for a beautiful and stress-free holiday season.

Baby, it’s cold outside! Snuggle up and keep warm with these cozy throws, perfect for a winter’s night.

1 Cableknit Alpaca Throw
$350.00

2 Tonal Alpaca Throw
$475.00

3 Cashmere Fringed Throw
$1,150.00

Visit scandiadown.com for more information and to purchase online.

Burlap has never looked so good! Check out today’s beautiful finds:

Made by AlicesLookingGlass, these beautiful burlap pieces bring a romantic, vintage charm to the home. For more information, visit AlicesLookingGlass on etsy.com.

Image by: GAP Photos/Mark Scott

I know, I know — it’s early. But I’m starting to feel Christmas fever. For me, it truly is the most wonderful time of year. It’s not the gifts, the shopping or anything to do with the chaos that Christmas has (sadly) become synonymous with. It’s about family and friends and the joy and peace of the season.

But — that doesn’t mean that the holidays aren’t a lot of work, as you prepare to throw the doors of your home open to welcome your nearest and dearest. But don’t stress. We’ve compiled a 50-day Holiday Countdown to help you get through with ease and elegance. Our no-muss, no-fuss approach means you can be the consummate host or hostess without losing your cool.

Check out:
50-day holiday countdown
For 50 days, we’re revealing an article a day to inspire you with decorating ideas and recipes — all with an eye to keeping things simple.

50-day gift guide
Each day for 50 days, we’ll offer you a new gift suggestion to help simplify gift buying. Whether you’re completely stuck  or just looking for an I-hadn’t-thought-of-that idea, we’re here to help.

Holiday countdown contest
So, how do you simplify the holidays? Enter our contest and share your best holiday decorating, organizing and entertaining tips. Psst! We’re giving away some fabulous prizes, too!

Unique. Totally original. Truly one of a kind. That’s what I love about these utterly gorgeous blown glass pieces. Founded in 2005 by Eva Milinkovic and Kriston Gene, Canadian-based Tsunami Glassworks specializes in designing stunning glass objects for the home. Each piece is totally eye-catching, available in a broad range of shapes, sizes and colours. Standing solo or clustered together, each piece is a born attention seeker. But with style like this, can’t say I blame ‘em! Visit tsunamiglassworks.com for more information and a full list of retailers.

From finally clearing the clutter in your home office to getting a jumpstart on the holidays … what are you doing this month? Here are 10 things to do in November:

1 Check your gutters
Clean your gutters regularly during the fall to make sure they’re not blocked with fallen leaves and other debris. Also check that they’re solidly attached to the house and draining properly.

2 Try some new cheeses
A creative and delicious cheese plate anchors any selection of appetizers. Take the time now to visit your cheese store and test-taste the offerings so you can wow your guests when the party season arrives.

3 Get out your knitting basket
Nothing’s cosier than a hand-knitted gift, whether it be a simple scarf mittens or an item for the home. Get started on small handmade gifts for your loved ones now — you’ll have time to make something special for yourself, too. New to knitting? Pick up a beginners’ book such as Knitting Pretty by Kris Percival, or sign up for a knitting class at your local yarn store (LYS, in knitters’ lingo).

OK, that’s only three things … check out our full list of things to do in November!

I don’t know what the weather’s like where you live but where I live, it’s getting c-c-cold. I’ve officially traded in my spring/fall coat for something with a bit more heft and I’ve hauled out my scarves and gloves from their summertime hibernation. Brrrr! Some may call it crisp. I just call it cold. Some may call it brisk. I just call it blustery. There’s definitely a nip in the air but what I love most about the chill that chases me home is the comfort that can be found (or created!) indoors. Blankets, candles, pillows, a roaring fire and a hot cup of tea … these are just a few of the joys of winter.

I love these blankets from designer Ian Saude. Made from cashmere, the most luxurious fabric of all, these throws just ooze warmth and comfort. There’s something a little bit traditional, a little bit modern about them but either way, they look like the perfect thing to snuggle up with on a chilly night. For more information, visit iansaude.com.