Design & Decor Blog

Back in December, Pantone revealed its colour of the year for 2010. And the winner was: Turquoise! Well, we’re three months into 2010 and as we head into spring, perhaps it’s the perfect time to start thinking of ways to incorporate this colour at home. Inspired by nature from sea to sky, turquoise is known for its restful effect, representing feelings of tranquility and calm. It’s how you might feel languishing under a cloudless sky by the turquoise waters of a tropical paradise. Ahhhhh …

A vacation is one thing. But when you return home, leaving the ocean behind, you may want to recreate that sense of calm inside your own house. Turquoise home decor products abound. Check out some of my favourite wallcoverings below (visit crownwallpaper.com for more information), plus take a look at 10 more terrific turquoise home accessories that’ll inspire you to inject some cheer into your decor.

Sometimes we could all use a little nudge in the etiquette department. Today’s find: linens that remind us to mind our manners. This set of six linens boast phrases like: Try it, you might like it, Take your dishes to the sink, Chew with your mouth closed and Elbows off the table. Chic and cheeky, these linens in a lovely willow green a sure to spark conversation at the dinner table!

Available at: etsy.com
Price: $36 for a set of 6

I’m a bona fide gadget girl. I can’t get enough of my tech toys. But no matter how much I love my Blackberry, I still love gorgeous paper products – stationery, calendars, notepads and journals. And so, one of my favourite things to do at the start of a new year, is to search out beautiful agenda books. Below are some of my faves. Plus, check out 9 more stylish 2010 calendars.

My favourite calendars (from left to right, top to bottom)
Agenda Coelho 2010: Inspirations
Available at: amazon.ca
Price: 26.58

Cath Kidston 2010 Mini Engagement Calendar
Available at: chroniclebooks.com
Price: $12.99

2010 Designer Dogs Calendar
Available at: peterpauper.com
Price: $3.00

2010 Wall Calendar
Available at: seejanework.com
Price: $34

There’s no question that Christmas can put a strain on the purse strings. From the food and drinks for parties to Christmas gifts big and small (and maybe a new dress for the many events you’re attending), the holidays seem to come with a cost, despite even the best efforts to be festive but frugal. And it’s always nice to update your home decor with beautiful things as you prepare to throw open your doors to friends and family. So we’ve rounded up 10 fabulous home decor finds, all under $25. Adding style to your home doesn’t have to cost a bundle. Below is one of our favourite finds, a gorgeous blanket from etsy.com. Check out the full story: 10 home decor finds under $25.

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!