Decorating & Design
12 classic must-haves
12 classic must-haves of
1 to 6 Just like fashion's crisp white shirt or cosy black turtleneck that you can always count on, there are decor classics that look fabulous in interiors of any style. Invest your decorating dollars in these timeless pieces, and they'll endure as your design taste evolves. Here, STYLE AT HOME focuses on a dozen must-have items to add to your decor shopping list.1 A leather club chair is perfect for reading, chatting, or snuggling with feline friends. A dark leather chair gets softer and more comfy with wear. If leather's not your thing, upholster your chair in a favourite fabric; change the fabric as your taste evolves. 2 A decorative throw looks gorgeous draped over a chair or around your shoulders. Look for one in wool or cashmere to keep you cosy; cotton and rayon throws can be used year-round. Fine weaves and subtle designs add visual interest to a room without overpowering it; deep fringe trim is a luxurious touch. 3 An ample sofa is one you can stretch out or sleep on and that seats at least three people without anyone feeling cramped. Shop for quality wood construction and long-lasting sinuous springs. Down-filled cushions are soft, but foam or a combo of foam and down maintains the sofa's shape better. 4 A beautiful wool area rug defines a room and can bring a dull space to life. A rug not only softens your way underfoot, it also muffles noise. Look for a Persian rug with a subtle pattern in versatile neutral colours. Choose a design that you love, and with proper care, your rug can last a lifetime. 5 Quality stainless-steel flatware should feel smooth and weighty in your hands. Pick a style that will make you smile every time you set the table. A simple, classic design is one you'll enjoy for years to come and will be perfect for casual or formal occasions.6 A stunning crystal vase looks great on its own, or filled with gorgeous white flowers or seasonal decorations like shells, pinecones or fruit. A vase with clean, simple lines will never go out of style. 7 to 12 7 A 48-inch round pedestal dining table that can seat six to eight people is the most relaxing way to dine with friends and family. Guests' knees won't bump table legs or other knees, and conversation is so much easier at a round table. With proper care, this piece of furniture will become a family heirloom. 8 Connoisseurs know that wine and liqueur taste best when sipped from crystal or fine glassware. The shape and size of a glass should feel pleasing to the hand and enhance a drink's bouquet. 9 We spend a third of our lives in bed, so 500-thread-count cotton bedding is a wise investment. Soft and lustrous white bed linens make you feel like you're sleeping on a cloud. Build your collection as your budget allows. 10 The simplicity of white dishware allows food and its presentation to really shine. Plus, you'll never have to worry if your pattern is discontinued; dishes in varying designs and shades of white can be mixed together stylishly. Shop for dishes that are chip-resistant and dishwasher- and microwave-safe. 11 Originally popular in the '30s, the swing-arm lamp provides stylish task lighting. Whether your taste is modern or traditional, a classic pharmacy lamp works on any desk or side table. 12 One piece of original art says more about you than several reproductions. Original works also have the potential to increase in value.
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- Samantha Pynn
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Favourite holiday traditions Favourite holiday traditions
Favourite holiday traditions ofpage 1 As you prepare to unwrap those cherished ornaments and plan your holiday feast, we asked designers and decorators from across the country to give readers a glimpse at what they do each year in their homes. Some stick to their tried and true family traditions while integrating new elements to spice things up. For others, nature is a prominent guest. But as some will admit, some of the best ideas are those inspired by others. On trimming the tree: Three years ago while travelling through the English countryside, I came upon a store with decorated Christmas trees hanging upside down. In Victorian times, trees were often too tall to fit in houses. The tops would be cut off and the trees hung upside down. It fit our company's Victorian theme for a Christmas home in Saskatoon and was a huge success. It has become a tradition in our home to feature this tree each year with a different theme. It will either stand upside down on a weighted base or hang from the ceiling. We place the star at the bottom. -- Arlene Olson, owner, Art of Interior Re-Design, Saskatoon (Fave holiday food: A prairie dessert -- carrot pudding with caramel sauce) On decorating: I love to use fresh greens, magnolia, berries, boxwood and ribbon every year. The beauty of using naturals and ribbon is that you can easily change up the colour scheme from year to year. Last year I mixed oversized bamboo trunks with birch trunks to frame the outside of my front door. I used a stunning fresh magnolia wreath on the front door and then used acid green and orange accents in my outdoor urns and throughout the interior of the house. On entertaining: Being half Danish, we celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve. The herring is a must-have. -- Meredith Heron, principal, Red Heron Essentials Design Inc., Toronto ("This year I am leaning toward deep red, royal purple and acid green. Think Russia in St. Petersburg.") On decorating: I'm not so much into the trends as I see things I like and I incorporate them. One year I went to a client's place and she had the whole banister covered in cedar boughs. I used that idea. When I first moved out, I thought, "I love nature," so I bought ornaments that had to do with it. My favourites are these long quartz crystals. Every year, I can't wait to put those on. On food: Every Christmas morning my family all gets together and opens the gifts and we have a brunch of sautéed mushrooms in butter, toast, bacon and eggnog. Ever since I was little we've never had anything else. -- Rob Everitt, owner, Everitt Design Associates Limited, Winnipeg ("I have always been fascinated by shimmering things.") On holiday memories: When we lived in Halifax, which has a small Jewish community, there were Christmas trees everywhere. Our neighbour asked if I could go to the woods. I brought home a tiny tree and my father said "No way." We were allowed to string blue and white paper ribbon around the living room. That was our concession. And we hung stockings. On entertaining: I have quite a few friends who like to try new recipes and we pass them back and forth. We'll go to a friend's house and we'll reciprocate. You get to see different parts of everyone's traditions. -- Linda Camlot, interior decorator, Interiors by Design LC, 514.488.6285, Montreal (Fave holiday food: "I love brisket and potato latkes -- anything with fat in it.") On decorating: I like to have (artificial) trees in different rooms, all lit with white lights. I double what you would normally use, so you have this beautiful glow of light. Then I disperse bits of flowers, greenery and twigs to accent, so it becomes more than your traditional shape. Favourite ornament: It would be the handmade decorations from my kids from way back. They're primitive, but they're sweet and special. -- Cathy Souch, general manager and buyer, Settlement House Shops, Port Perry, Ont. ("I like the glitter of glass and mirror decorations.")Image courtesy of Pottery Barn Five more designers share their holiday home designs On decorating: Our home is traditionally done in very outdoorsy-type themes, meaning we use a lot of pine cones and things from the outdoors that are beautiful when brought inside.On entertaining: We try a lot of unique recipes. One year we made what they have for Christmas in Quebec, another year we made Ukrainian food. Favourite ornament: It's an angel for the top of the tree that I can remember from the time I was four. She is about 60 years old and has a bisque face and arms. I have remade the wings and dress over the years. -- Bonie Conrad, interior decorator, Tower Interiors Ltd., Halifax("I take old decorations apart and use them to make new ones.")On decorating: When I lived in the country, we had acres in the backyard and I remember bringing in my own greenery. I always use it in the entrance, the bathrooms and through the hallways. I mix fresh flowers, such as white or red amaryllis, white roses, white lilies and red berries. I always have lots of candles outside and inside.On entertaining: I love my guests to take a memory home. I'll give parting gifts, such as edible treats or a candle.-- Armine Nielsen, owner, AT Design Group, Toronto("I love the smell of the evergreens.")On decorating: I feel very traditional at Christmas, but I like to change [the decor] every year. I change the ribbons and bows at home to whatever colour will match. Last year it was gold, the year before, burgundy. This year, I might sway more to younger children. I have a two-year-old grandson. On entertaining: We still do the turkey and the stuffing and serve eggnog with the cinnamon sticks.-- Kathy Love, owner and interior designer, K interiors, Vancouver("At my store, I will have twiggy 'Charlie Brown' trees with decorations made locally: little red birds and little RCMP officers.") On entertaining: One year we had a "musical chair Christmas." If your family lives in the same city, you can do this. We went for breakfast at one house, lunch at another, dinner and dessert at another. I think it's fun if you stay in your pyjamas to go for breakfast. My sister-in-law put on pearls with her PJs.On decorating: I do a different thing every year. I have lots of decorations, but will probably buy a few new things and I go on what strikes me that year. One year it was all birds.-- Elaine Wolfe, owner & residential/commercial interior designer, Elements Interior Design, Calgary("This year, I'll probably do really bright colours for the tree –- pink and green and blue.")On decorating: The one thing that I carried through year to year was I let the kids have their own tree in their bedroom. I started the tradition when my kids were small and now they do it with their children. When my daughter was five, she made a whole bunch of paper bells with black tissue paper on them.Now I have seven trees spread throughout the house, including one on the deck near the hot tub. They are all different and they all have a particular theme.-- Connie Jackson, owner, Alterity Interiors Inc., Edmonton(Fave holiday food: "My cranberry sausage stuffing.")Image courtesy of Pottery Barn- Credit
- Tara Nolan
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Holiday decorating on a budget Holiday decorating on a budget
Holiday decorating on a budget ofTips 1 to 5 Whether you're planning the Christmas party of the century, or burning the Yule log on your own, holiday decorating does not have to break the bank-or your festive spirit.Your creativity can take you far. Try these tips and projects to make your home a holiday haven, while only spending a Dickens' halfpenny. 1 Christmas close-outsCheck local newspapers often for special ‘close-out' sales. Often lasting only two or three days, close-out sales are gold mines for everything from kitschy candles to bushels of tree lights, at prices lower than wholesale. 2 Festive foragingGather nature's ornaments, such as pinecones, acorns and balsam fir tips from the backyard or local park. Add a touch of silver or gold spray paint to your gatherings and arrange in a glass bowl surrounded by votive candles. 3 Christmas aromatherapyDelight houseguests with the warm scent of a mulling spice bag. Combine whole cloves, allspice, cinnamon sticks, and nutmeg with dried orange and lemon peel in a small piece of cheesecloth secured with elastic. Simmer the spice bag in a pot filled with 3-4 cups of water, and enjoy the aroma. 4 Merry memoriesGather a collection of favourite family and childhood Christmas amaryllis plant is a holiday favourite, and should be potted six weeks before Christmas to yield large, stunning blooms. Pot two or three of the festive ‘Peppermint Stick' variety, which are white, swirled with red.Image courtesy of Williams-Sonoma Tips 6 to 10 6 Christmas by candlelightNothing creates a festive ambiance like the glow of candles. For a dining or coffee table centrepiece, group three pillar candles of various heights in holiday colours on a ceramic or other non-flammable dish. Scatter several tea lights in small glass holders along a mantel, bookshelf or buffet table.7 Charlie Brown-styleAt half the price of big trees, one to three-foot high mini evergreen trees make adorable desktop or table decorations. Perfect for apartments and other small spaces, ‘Charlie Brown' mini trees are available at many garden centres and Christmas tree lots. 8 How fairy festive!Add a twinkly, romantic effect with white fairy lights. String lights along the length of a window curtain rod to brighten a room. Arrange a strand of lights along a mantelpiece, weaving lights among Christmas cards and ornaments. 9 Deck the halls and doors …Fallen evergreen boughs and small pieces of greenery can be collected outdoors or purchased cheaply in surplus from Christmas tree lots. Natural boughs add a traditional Christmas look and scent and they can adorn banisters, doors and mantels.10 Fragrant fireplaceDress up a bare hearth by decorating a small wood log with flammable, decorative, scented accents, including sheet moss, pinecones, cinnamon sticks and whole cloves. When burned, this Yule log will make a glowing fire with a festive fragrance. (Use non-toxic white glue to decorate log rather than hot glue.) See below for instructions.Scented Yule logWith this decorative, burnable Yule log, the open hearth or top of a woodstove will always look and smell festive:Supplies:• 1 sheet moss (from florist or craft store)• small wood log• white craft glue• pine cones• cinnamon sticks• whole cloves• pot pourri (Christmas blend)• essential oils (pine, cinnamon, balsam frankincense)Instructions:Glue the moss to the top of the log. Glue potpourri pine cones, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, cinnamon sticks onto the moss. Sprinkle a few drops of essential oils to the moss and spices. Add a festive bow to the top of the log (to be removed before burning). Image courtesy of Williams-Sonoma- Credit
- Trish Sinclair
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Beautiful bedrooms Beautiful bedrooms
Beautiful bedrooms ofBeautiful bedrooms Bedroom decorating ideasUpdate the look of your bedroom with our simple and stylish bedroom decorating ideas.Romanticize your bedroomCreate that special mood with thoughtful touches to your decor.Design lesson: Bedroom save or splurgeKimberley Seldon offers her tips on where to splurge and where to save on bedroom decor.Wonderful whitesA wardrobe of classic whites gives unity and harmony to a chic country home.- Credit
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Design lesson: Playing with pattern Design lesson: Playing with pattern
Design lesson: Playing with pattern ofHow to choose pattern Drapery, cushions, upholstery and bedding -- we surround ourselves with fabric. It's how we soften the hard edges of the world. Although the textures and patterns you choose depend on personal taste, awareness of their impact allows you to make selections that will contribute to overall harmony. That's especially important in small spaces, where an abundance of pattern contributes to visual clutter. So, consider these strategies for incorporating pattern into your home.How to choose patternLiving roomTo allow for visual breathing room, it's best to use simple designs and combine them with solid fabrics. Robust patterns can be distracting, shifting attention from focal points, and creating a confusing backdrop for works of art.Dining room Frequently more dramatic than other public rooms, this room is used mostly in the evening. For that reason, it's perfectly warranted to choose bolder patterns. In addition, patterned upholstery and carpets are highly practical. Kitchen In the kitchen, where most of the available wall space is devoted to cabinetry, pattern can be a welcome relief. A pictorial wallpaper or scenic drapery fabric can create interest and set the tone for other decorating in the room. Bedroom The pattern you pick is dictated by the mood you want to create. If the bedroom is used only at nighttime, consider a minimum of pattern in a restful palette. For those who use the room during the day, a more adventurous mix of pattern may appeal. Powder room The powder room provides a real opportunity to enjoy high-impact pattern, as it's a transitional space used for short periods of time. Choose a scenic or geometric design, classic floral or large abstract pattern, and use it abundantly. Dos and don'ts Dos and don'tsDO evaluate the scale of furniture before choosing a pattern for upholstery. A dining room chair seat can't handle a large pattern. In contrast, a three-seater sofa doesn't suit a tiny motif. DO review the existing patterns in the room's background. For example, a herringbone floor adds energy, while a coffered ceiling brings order to a space. The crisp, heavy lines of shutters contrast with the minigrid of a mosaic backsplash. These architectural cues may influence the selection of other patterns. DO combine patterns that share a similar feeling or expression. For example, an exotic paisley blends easily with florals or stripes if they have an exotic feel as well. Formal damask works with shimmering silk, but may clash with rugged leather. DO use vertical stripes, like those provided by floor-to-ceiling wallpaper or drapes, to emphasize the height of a room. To accentuate a room's width, opt for horizontal stripes, using wallpaper or artwork hung in a row as a frieze. DON'T ignore the rug, since it's one of the most influential patterns in any room. Because it's a major purchase, many designers begin with it when building a design scheme. DON'T use more than one large-scale design in a small interior, as it can overwhelm. However, you can use several small or medium patterns if they are varied in scale. Layering patterns lends a sense of depth, vital to a small room. DON'T overdo vivid pattern in small spaces. Remember, a fabric with pattern has more visual weight than a solid one.To include a variety of patterns, stick to a colour palette with tone-on-tone or two-tone fabrics.- Credit
- Kimberley Seldon
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25 ways to live green at home 25 ways to live green at home
25 ways to live green at home ofpage 1 Being environmentally friendly doesn't have to mean sacrificing your sense of style. Smart choices can ensure that you do your part, all the while looking (and feeling!) good about your contribution to our planet's wellbeing. Here are 25 ways that you can live green at home and be a better friend to the environment. 1 Buy for the long-term. Save toward a quality sofa, for instance, rather than a series of cheapies that you'll be throwing out every five years. A well-made sofa can be recovered several times over the course of its decades-long life.2 Pack a litter-less lunch. Make sure your food storage containers are free of harmful bisphenol A Built NY's Lunch Tote, which is perfect for office brown bagging (in cooler colours, though!), fits the bill nicely.3 Lower your thermostat a few more degrees and cosy up with your sweetie under an eco-friendly bamboo throw! Click here to check out executive editor Laurie Grassi's fave new bamboo throw.4 Buy cotton mesh produce bags and take them to the market instead of using plastic bags for your fruit and veggies. They will help keep them fresh in your crisper drawer, too, and are washable when needed. 5 Renovating? Add character to your home with reclaimed and salvaged items. Top hits: re-plated chrome bath fixtures, re-enameled vintage bathtubs, reclaimed barn board flooring and salvaged architectural accents like columns, corbels and mantels.6 Switch to eco-friendly cleaning products. Look for products that are biodegradable, phosphate-free and not tested on animals. Seventh Generation, Ecover, President's Choice Green, Method and other brands are widely available at supermarkets, health food shops and drugstores across Canada.7 Or just check out your cupboards: Vinegar diluted with water is great on windows and floors; baking soda is great for gently scouring and deodorizing kitchen and bath surfaces.8 Use reusable shopping bags when grocery shopping. Executive editor Laurie Grassi shares her pick of reusable bags in her Natural Chic blog. page 2 9 Reduce your use of paper towels. Use re-useable, washable cloths whenever possible.10 Get an energy audit and find ways to improve your home's energy efficiency. Common to-dos include improving insulation, upgrading windows, installing weather stripping, trading up to a high-efficiency furnace and installing a programmable thermostat.11 Switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) orlight-emitting diodes (LEDs). If you really, really don't care for them, just change your porch light, laundry or utility room light to CFLs. You won't notice the difference, but CFLs use 75% less energy than standard bulbs. 12 Recycle and compost.13 Consider reading your daily newspaper online instead of in paper form.14 Plant a tree on your property. Or more, if you have space. Trees provide wildlife habitat and help cool the planet.15 Help clean your indoor air with houseplants; studies have shown that they can clear toxins like benzene, trichloroethylene and formaldehyde from the air (these baddies lurk in paint, varnishes, particle board, foam insulation, cleaning products and other common household materials). Philodendron, dracaena, spider plants and peace lilies are particularly good clearing the air.16 Eat organic. Pesticide residues harm wildlife on land, and with rain, run off and pollute lakes and rivers. Fertilizers can produce fatal algae blooms that destroy fish stocks. Further, many common agricultural fertilizers are known to have negative effects on human health. page 3 17 In the market for new appliances? Buy Energy-Star certified products. Visit FrigidaireEnergySavings.com to find out if it's time to upgrade your appliances by calculating how much you would save if you did so by using their handy tool.18 Stash reusable shopping bags so you'll have them where you need them: in your bag or briefcase, at home, in the car, in your office desk, etc.19 If your lawn languishes without lots of fertilizer, herbicide, pesticide and regular watering, consider letting it die and replacing it with moss or a drought-resistant groundcover like creeping thyme, clover, or a grass species native to your region.20 Put a rain barrel by your downspout to collect rainwater to use in your garden later.21 Eat local. Less travel equals fewer fossil fuels used for shipping. (And food tastes fresher, too!)22 In the housing market? Consider a property within biking or walking distance of your office, so you're more likely to leave the car in the garage. (Look for good connections to public transit, too.)23 Install aerators and low-flow showerheads so you can save water without sacrificing water pressure.24 Put your dryer on vacation and use an outdoor clothes line or indoor drying rack whenever possible.25 Eat better-quality meat (organic, hormone-free, free-range), but save money – and your heart – by eating it less frequently. Work vegetable protein into your diet with tofu, beans and nuts. Vegetable protein uses less water and land to produce than meat.- Credit
- Yuki Hayashi
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Inside design: Eva Lundgreen Inside design: Eva Lundgreen
Inside design: Eva Lundgreen ofpage 1 Swedish textile and graphic designer Eva Lundgreen has created IKEA's children's collections for the past three years. This season, however, you'll find her bold, graphic style making its mark on the IKEA Holiday Collection. Here, she shares her insights into the look of Christmas 2008. STYLE AT HOME Your designs have a fanciful element. Did your work, which includes kids' items, influence the products you created for the collection?Eva Lundgreen Not directly, but certainly memories of the past did. I'vealways been inspired by the countryside. My father is from a rural area near the mountains in Sweden. To me, Christmas is all about being there -- in the snow, with a fire burning in the fireplace to warm you when you come in from skiing. I particularly love the wool blankets that are used in the sleds behind the horses; the colours and textures really inspired me. Old-fashioned Swedish style evokes such positive memories for me. My challenge was to give it a modern twist.S@H How does old-fashioned become new again?EL Swedish Christmas is not about glamour -- it's about simplicity, a keyingredient in modern interiors. So, to start, I took some of the images used in old Swedish Christmas stories, simplified them, then enlarged them so they're more graphic. A red heart is a very typical image and a nice symbol, too. The repetition of bold, graphic images is modern; so is adding unusual colours to the classic red-and-green theme. In this collection, I picked orange, an exciting, contemporary colour that's warm for winter. You'll see orange in my striped textiles. Stripes were very popular in Scandinavian fabrics made a hundred years ago, but there's also something really modern about the look of striped pillows. page 2 S@H The past plays such an important role in the designs of the present and the future.EL You know, my husband and I met at IKEA. We were sent to Italy, wherewe lived for a long time. Now we're in Tokyo. Italy is all about the past; Japan is all about the future. With this collection, I was able to blend those two influences. In general, though, I think we need to remember our history when we move into the future, taking the best parts with us. Today, we want too much. Instead, we need to simplify, to be satisfied with less and to do things more ecologically.S@H Can you walk us through your ideal holiday celebration?EL For me, it requires being in the country surrounded by snow. The whole month of December is devoted to preparing for Christmas. In Sweden, we make little ginger cookies and hang them on our trees. On the 24th, we celebrate with Christmas porridge at lunchtime -- it's a special rice porridge with one lucky almond in it (the person who finds the almond gets to make a wish) -- and then take a long walk in the snow. Later, after a big dinner, we sing songs and dance around the tree. Then, we sit down and have some sweets, and someone dressed as Father Christmas arrives with a big bag of presents for the kids.S@H Oh, so the kids actually see Father Christmas?EL Yes, although they're usually scratching their heads, wondering where Dad has gone! But that's all part of the magic.A taste of SwedenDesigner Eva Lundgreen offers these ideas for giving your home a touch of holiday charm with a Scandinavian twist.1 Choose bold, graphic holiday images, like heart and tree motifs.2 Dress your tree with homemade gingerbread, brightly wrapped candies and heart-shape objects.3 Add nontraditional colours like pink and orange.4 Include stripes for a modern edge. Decorate with evergreens and white candles. 5 Introduce texture with loosely knit blankets and pillows, and a Christmas feeling with embroidered wool fabric.- Credit
- Liza Finlay
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Bedroom decorating tips Bedroom decorating tips
Bedroom decorating tips ofpage 1 For modern gals, the bedroom is as much a place of contemplation and relaxation as it is one of seduction. With busy workday lives and high-use home offices overlapping into your personal space, the bedroom becomes ever more important as a retreat. If you're single or divorced, we say you've got carte blanche to make it the girly, feminine place you've always dreamed of! But whether your boudoir is more Sex & The City, Season 5 (mostly single), or SATC: the Movie (mostly coupled), there are some basic rules of boudoir chic to follow. Here are some bedroom decorating ideas for creating a romantic, stylish and restful retreat. DO start by checking out sheet sets at the department store. Ogle the displays -- those pimped-out beds are there for a reason: so you can picture what the collections actually look like when set up. What style appeals to you on a gut level? Crisp, white hotel-chic? Country-cottage floral matlassé quilts? Rich, spice-tone tapestry prints? DON'T be afraid to deviate from the rest of your decorating scheme. Even if the social areas of your home are neutral and modern, a self-contained and private space like the bedroom is the perfect little spot for you to break out your Moroccan side! (Or bohemian. Or retro Hollywood -- mirrored nightstands, white shag rug, pink, frilly bedding and all!)DO make luxury the bottom line. Nothing is sexier, or more restful than premium bedding. Look for a thread count in the 300-500 threads per square inch range. DON'T buy flat or fitted sheets that exceed 600 threads per square inch: the resulting super-tight weave can trap body heat, preventing skin from breathing properly, which can be extremely unpleasant in summer. Image courtesy of Pottery Barn. page 2 DO use eco-friendly laundry detergent and oxygen bleach to keep your bedding clean. The milder formulas are not only better for the planet, they're better for your skin. Stronger products can cause allergy or irritation.DON'T bring work into the bedroom, unless you're literally working from bed because you have a cold. (Shouldn't you be resting, though?) Nothing makes a bedroom less restful than a pile of reports sitting on the nightstand.DO make your own decision about a TV. Some people say it has no place in the bedroom, but if your best way of unwinding after a late night at work or jarring evening of speed-dating is to watch John Stewart while sipping an herbal tea in your (impeccably tailored) jammies, do it. (Just invest in a wall-mounted flat screen, so it doesn't clutter up any surfaces.)DON'T throw clothes on the floor or drape them over furniture. (If they came off in the heat of the moment, you have a free pass until morning. Then: put them away. Pronto.)DO layer up various tactile pleasures. Smooth and crisp high-thread-count sheets, (faux) furry throws, velvety cushions, dense woolen rugs, silk drapery. All create visual and tactile interest and combine to create an intriguing and inviting ambience.DON'T let clutter impinge on this space. Invest in a closet system or steal space from another room, but make minimizing "extras" (ie. clothing, books, work, knick knacks, scores of photos, food, DVDs, etc.) your primary goal. The only things anyone should ever notice here: the great furniture and accessories -- and you! Image courtesy of Pottery Barn.- Credit
- Yuki Hayashi
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Design lesson: Outdoor holiday decorating Design lesson: Outdoor holiday decorating
Design lesson: Outdoor holiday decorating ofLighting As far back as I can remember, the task of decorating the outside of our house at Christmastime fell to me and my dad. With zeal I directed my father to hang greenery and ornaments across the entire roofline and over the porch of our modest bungalow. To my child's eye, only yards of red, yellow, blue and green coloured lights (the embodiment of holiday cheer) could compensate for a lack of snow (pretty likely in southern California, where we were living). For the record, my husband maintains that 25 years later my dictatorial approach has changed very little. Here is some well-seasoned advice for bringing holiday cheer to your home's exterior.LightingJust as grocery shopping with a list can prevent costly impulse buys and oversights, it's wise to prepare a plan of action before you ascend the ladder with lights in hand. Here are five tips for effectively lighting your home's exterior.1 Take a photograph of the façade of your home and draw in your ideas with a marker. Try several options before settling on one. With a detailed plan, you can accurately calculate your lighting requirements.2 Make sure lights are working before you hang them. If you are combining lights and greenery, save a step by wrapping garlands with lights before stringing them up. 3 Use the architecture of your home as a guide. Follow roof lines, windowsills, and other significant elements, such as window boxes or a gazebo. Your goal is to highlight those existing shapes, not work against them.4 Create a pleasing vignette by lighting several trees or shrubs (a group of three is appealing). Vary the bulb size to suit each plant. For every foot of tree, use at least a 100-count strand of lights and weave it in and out of tree branches, creating layers of light that emanate from within.5 Highlight any evergreens with coloured floodlights in crisp white or seasonal green. (Avoid red lights for this purpose, since they make green trees appear muddy.) Dos and don'ts Dos and Don'ts of exterior decoratingDO consider the architecture. Classic and formal homes look best with tightly woven greenery displayed symmetrically. Victorian homes are exuberant and accommodate coloured ornaments, elaborate bows and draped greenery. Colonial styles call for simple decorations. Complement a ranch bungalow with looser greens such as cedar, and natural elements like pinecones.DO mix fresh and permanent garlands. Place fresh greens near a door to appreciate the fragrance. For large areas, a synthetic garland is a good investment; braid strands for fullness and impact. DO calculations in advance. For significant straight runs, such as a roof line or railings, multiply the distance by 2½ to determine the amount of garland needed (for a draped effect, multiply by three). DON'T choose small wreaths. For a door that's 35 inches wide, choose a wreath that's 24 to 30 inches in diameter. For a 48-inch-wide door, a diameter of 30 to 36 inches is ideal. DON'T overlook an occasional extravagance, such as swagging a back deck with garlands or filling a bird bath with mirrored ornaments.- Credit
- Kimberley Seldon
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Buying a new stereo system Buying a new stereo system
Buying a new stereo system ofpage 1 For most of us, setting up a home stereo music system is a pretty basic procedure. For mainstream consumers, key priorities are convenience (an easy place to park your iPod and enjoy your tunes after work), great sound (maybe not concert-hall quality, but certainly superior levels of definition and control when it comes to enjoying everything from Shakira to Shostakovich with elan) and -- let's be honest -- good looks. Finding all that plus ease of installation isn't too tall an order. Here's how to get started.1 Location, location, locationDetermining where the stereo system is going is the logical first step. If you're in a petite urban loft or condo, space can be at a premium. If you're in a larger house, you need to determine if you need just one home stereo system, additional compact units (for the bedroom or study, for example) – or just multiple speakers throughout the house. Common areas for housing the main stereo system include the dining room, living room or family room. If you have a home-theatre set-up, you could in theory simply hook up your audio components to the existing home theatre speakers, but in many busier households, that system will be dominated by the TV or gaming components (thanks, kids!). So, in many households, it's wise to have a compact system in the kitchen, where it can provide respite from the booms and crashes coming from the adjoining rooms. 2 Wireless systemsWhile the flexibility of traditional stereo systems were limited by wires, today's wireless systems allow for hassle-free speaker placement. Not only can you put the speakers wherever you want within a room, in many cases, you can pace them throughout the house to get great sound no matter where you are, including the backyard.One of the latest wireless systems on the market, the Sonos Multi Room Music System (from $999), actually improves on that premise even further by offering the ability to play different music in different rooms of the house. Using the system's main remote control, you can play digital music files from your collection, Internet radio or certain music sharing services, to any of the different speakers in the house. Or link "zones" so you can hear the same music as you move between living room and kitchen, for instance. The Sonos product is marketed for its ease of set-up (all you need is a hex key, broadband or DSL cable and router to get the system set up), but most home stereo systems today are designed to be user-friendly -- you don't need to be an audiophile to get started. 3 Compact & portablesCompact or micro systems (also known as "shelf systems") are popular in smaller homes and as secondary systems in larger homes. Today's models offer surprising sound quality given the small size of the units, although they're usually not wireless. But with smaller systems, the speakers are simply book-ended on the same shelf, or are actually connected to the unit itself.Look for features like an easy-to-connect iPod dock and USB port so you can listen to your digital music collection without having to buy these connection kits separately.LG's DVD Microsystem with iPod Dock (FB163) ($249.99) has got the goods for a very reasonable price. It's considered the best in its class within the mid-priced units. And it's certainly a beauty with its high gloss, mod black finish.Meanwhile, Bose's SoundDock Portable ($499.99) is renowned among audiophiles for its small dimensions, portability, long-lasting lithium-ion battery and contemporary styling. It costs a bit more than some systems, especially given its size, but for sound quality and ease of use, it's a sound investment. Why buy multiples, when you can just tote this from your kitchen to home office as your mood dictates? Image courtesy of Pottery Barn.- Credit
- Claire Smith
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Eco-maniacally Hollywood Eco-maniacally Hollywood
Eco-maniacally Hollywood ofpage 1 The fastest route to celebrity credibility these days? Conscientious living. By embracing a cause and using their star power for something positive (read: instead of vacuous), celebrities are able to back up their style with substance. And worthy causes get the public's attention in a way that, in many cases, celebrities wouldn't be able to otherwise. By far, the biggest lure to celeb activism today is the environment. From A-listers to who-was-that?'s alike, celebrities both big and small are pulling their Priuses up to the curb and being counted. Here's our roundup of who's saying what, our cynic-o-meter rating for each (Is he really likely to even know what a carbon offset is?), and, most important, around-the-house tips that real people can use to earth-save like a star!Star: LEONARDO DICAPRIOCause: The Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation (www.leonardodicaprio.org) was established in 1998 to raise awareness about the environmental crisis and to help fund projects like the documentary, The 11th Hour (www.11thhouraction.com ), and Eco-Town, a series currently in production for the Discovery Channel. Cynic-O-Meter Rating: Low. With extensive links and resources on topics ranging from government policy to grassroots action and Q&As ("What can I do about toxic yoga mats?"), plus a fun kids' site, this is anything but a vanity project. Hit the website for info on global warming, fresh water, biodiversity and sustainability issues. And seriously: he's so hot he doesn't have to use media spin to bolster his image.An easy Leo-inspired act for the Earth: Go to http://www.leonardodicaprio.org/pledge/ and sign Leo's Pledge To Be Plastic Bag Free. And then start toting your canvas bag everywhere.Star: CHRISTINA AGUILERACause: Organic food. She's also a supporter of the Natural Resources Defense Council. Cynic-O-Meter Rating: Medium. A recent concert rider that said only organic soy milk and organic food should be placed in her dressing room proves she knows natural is best…but will she ever use her considerable fame to take a public stand? How to eat (and feed) smart like Xtina: Opt for organic produce, dairy and meat products. That means less pollution in our groundwater, healthier working conditions for migrant farm workers, more humane treatment of animals and fewer pesticide and antibiotic residues for you. Star: BRAD PITTCause: Building eco housing for Hurricane Katrina survivors. Pitt founded Make It Right (makeitrightnola.org), an organization dedicated to building 150 subsidized, energy-efficient single family homes using sustainable building materials in New Orleans' Lower 9th Ward – the predominantly working class, African-American community most devastated by the hurricane's aftermath. International architects designed several dwellings (both modernist and traditional) that qualifying families can choose from. Potential homeowners will be selected for their ability to help finance their homes and for their willingness to attend financial counseling where needed. Also, visit Style at Home executive editor Laurie Grassi's blog, Natural Chic, for info on Brad's eco-partnership with Kiehl's.Cynic-O-Meter Rating: In the negative integers. One, he's one half of Brangelina, the planet's most famous crusading couple, and two, he's famed for his love of architecture and interior design, so this project isn't such a stretch for him. Plus, he gets bonus points for understanding that families in the Lower 9th Ward want assistance, not handouts.What you can do: Go to the website and help sponsor a home. Or buy a spacious pink Make It Right tote bag ($25 US) to carry your groceries home in. The bags are made from eco-friendly materials and fund the nonprofit organization Lighthouse for the Blind. page 2 Star: WOODY HARRELSONCause: He's known for being a champion of hemp (a more eco-friendly alternative to conventional cotton or paper pulp) and once joined a group of activists to unfurl an anti-logging banner on San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge. He's also a committed vegan and starred in the eco-doc Go Further, where he travels America in a hemp and solar-powered bus spreading the eco gospel. He and his wife started a non-profit called Voice Yourself with a focus on forest protection, renewable energy, hemp and clean air and water. Cynic-O-Meter Rating: Low to moderate. He is earnest and clearly feels strongly about the issues, but unfortunately, the website is pretty lightweight. You can read Woody's poetry, yet the promised recipes and tips on living "off-grid" are nowhere to be found. Woody, please give your fans some concrete tips, info and resources to we can go from inspiration to action, since, you know...that's what you promised us!WWWD? (What Would Woody Do?) Which you can do, too: Test your toilet to see if it leaks. Put some vegetable dye into the tank (don't flush) and check it 30 minutes later. If coloured water made it into the bowl, the toilet leaks and is wasting water all day and all night! Replace the leaking parts. Also, if the toilet predates 1994 (when toilets became more water efficient) consider adding a displacement device (such as a water-filled bottle) to the tank so it uses less water to flush. Or, install a water-conserving new model (many Canadian municipalities will reimburse you for a portion of the cost). Stars: CAMERON DIAZ & GWYNETH PALTROWCause: Conserving energy and reducing oil use. Cameron and Gwyneth are the celeb eye candy fronting Act Green (the website actgreen.com is coming soon: http://www.actgreen.com), a series of public service announcements for eco-orgs Union of Concerned Scientists and Environmental Media Association. The PSAs are geared at young people.Cynic-O-Meter Rating: Low. They're A-List stars and don't need the attention. But the cause they're schilling for does, so kudos to them.Conserve like a star (or, more realistically…): Paltrow and Diaz both drive hybrids. If you can afford one, consider it, too. If not, replace your incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescents to save energy -- and money. Also, schedule an energy audit; your utility company may do it for free, and you'll find ways to cut energy costs throughout your home.Star: ED BEGLEY, JR.Cause: Conserving energy and preserving resources at home. And promoting Begley's Best cleaning products. Begley does all the right things, like riding his bike and driving an electric car and he lives in a solar-powered house and all, but a whiff of self-aggrandizement permeates his website. His TV show is called Living with Ed, his new book is called Living Like Ed, he's plastered his mug all over his cleaning products and he calls himself "an environmental leader in the Hollywood community for many years."Cynic-O-Meter Rating: Low to moderate. He's been walking the walk since before tofu became the protein du jour. However, am I the only one freaked out by how self-obsessed the tone of this book is? I read it cover to cover and now know a lot more than I ever wanted to about his personal life, his TV career, his wife and how no one listened to him in the beginning but how he was right all along. Must he toot his own horn so loudly? Is his swelled head contributing to global warming?How you, too, can (sigh) live like Ed: Cut the waste coming from your house. Switch from paper towels to rags for cleaning duties. Don't throw out old cotton shirts – just roll them up and use them to polish wood or wash windows. Use eco-friendly, no-VOC, biodegradable cleaning products not tested on animals and recycle the bottles afterward.- Credit
- Yuki Hayashi
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Inside design: Michael George Inside design: Michael George
Inside design: Michael George ofpage 1 He has created florals for A-listers including Giorgio Armani, Calvin Klein, Vera Wang and, of course, his friend Martha (Stewart, that is), who wrote the foreword to Simply Elegant Flowers with Michael George ($30 US, North Light Books, 2008). Michael, who has more than five decades of experience, also owns two flower stores and is the artistic director at the prestigious FlowerSchool New York.Style at Home What is it that flowers bring to people?Michael George It's a quality of life issue, really. Having flowers at home brings us back to the organic side of our reality. We've moved so far away from that. I'm trying to put the "culture" in culture. My approach, which I call quattro stagione, or "four seasons," is a simple way for us to tune into what's real in life and to bring that into our homes.S@H About quattro stagione -- your book explains how to use the four stages of nature to inspire floral creations.MG Well, here's the thing: nature gets it right all the time. When autumn comes and the leaves start to change colours, I watch. Sometimes there's more fuchsia, sometimes more orange. I take my lead from that. When arranging flowers, look at the flower in its plant form, see how it grows, and use that to inspire the form of your flower bouquet. Why overstylize something that's already perfect? The purpose of my book is to demystify flower arranging, as Martha Stewart has. It's not rocket science. I want people to get their hands dirty. You know, when I was going through some bad times, I had this overwhelming urge to weed and work in the garden. Sounds weird, doesn't it? But I needed to get my hands dirty, and while I weeded, I worked things out. The same is true for most people; when you're working with flowers, you're happier than when you're just looking at them.S@H You're talking yourself out of a job here, you know.MG Look, the retail flower shop is dying. You have online services that you can order from, or you can stop at the grocery store or even a corner store to buy flowers. The costs of providing the flower-arranging service and staffing are becoming impractical. You have to move with the times; to stay relevant and survive, you really have to adapt. Evolution is a key word. Today, we're a hybridization of influences -- geographically, politically and spiritually. For instance, recently I was hired to do the flowers for a Jewish-Chinese wedding that took place in 21 Club, a famous nightclub in downtown New York!S@H So what did you do?MG I used roses, rose foliage, and oranges (which mean good luck to the Chinese), and draped the chuppah with a red satin bedspread that had a golden dragon on it.S@H Simplicity is a word that's often applied to your work. Is that what makes your arrangements so modern?MG The simplicity and monochromatic nature of my work is in line with the evolution of fashion and style, which are becoming simpler and more natural. My look is minimal, neat and monofloral, which is what makes it modern. For more great entertaining ideas, pick up the November issue of Style at Home or buy it online! Here’s the link to buy it online: November 2008 Style at Home All images by Brie Williams from Simple Elegant Flowers with Michael George by Michael George with Bob Shuman (Northlight Books, 2008). page 2 S@H In Simply Elegant Flowers, you relate how the time your father spent in postwar Japan influenced his own floral creations. Like father, like son?MG Yes! I was married to a Japanese woman for 10 years, and she had quite a huge influence on me. I learned how to really see the simplicity in the beauty of nature. But I needed to learn how to translate that into arrangements that would speak to Americans, who just aren't culturally attuned to simplicity or minimalism. Abundance is key. I started doing low domes using a single flower type, arranging the stems like pencils in a jar. S@H You've written about how, as a baby, you crawled among the fallen petals and stems at your father's flower shop and how, as you grew, the flowers seemed to speak to you. For those of us who don't speak "flower" as a first language, what advice do you have?MG Handle flowers to familiarize yourself with them, look at them and how they grow, and read books about them. Nothing from nature is undesirable, whether it's grasses, pea pods or berries, so don't rule anything out. S@H Bringing a hostess flowers is never clichéd, is it? How can we kick it up a notch and elevate the ordinary?MG First, don't show up with flowers. We all know what it's like to entertain, and the last thing a hostess needs is one more thing to do. Now she has to deal with them, plus take coats and get drinks. Send flowers or an orchid plant the day before, so you don't risk overflowering the house. Floral 101 with Michael GeorgeThe New York-based star floral designer shares his top secrets for creating his signature arrangements.Put flowers in water right away and, if possible, let them drink for eight hours before arranging. Michael also suggests using a plant food, like Chrysal, to extend the life of your arrangement. Remove all thorns and foliage from flower stems below the water line. Align the tops of the flowers, cutting the stems with an even, straight stroke. Drop flowers into a vase the way you would pencils in a jar. Used to hold stems in place, rubber bands and clear hair ties are key to Michael's look. Position a band at the top of the water line, so it's not visible. By moving the band up or down, you can adjust the diameter of your bouquet.For more great entertaining ideas, pick up the November issue of Style at Home or buy it online! Here’s the link to buy it online: November 2008 Style at HomeAll images by Brie Williams from Simple Elegant Flowers with Michael George by Michael George with Bob Shuman (Northlight Books, 2008).- Credit
- Liza Finlay
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Energy efficient home Energy efficient home
Energy efficient home ofPAGE 1 Saving energy is top-of-mind for homeowners and renters alike. Energy costs continue to rise, as does awareness of environmental issues. As we head into the heavy-usage winter months, finding ways to conserve is a big priority. Here are our top 15 to-dos to make your home more energy efficient for winter.1 First off, book an energy audit. An accredited energy advisor can perform an energy evaluation of your home, identifying energy-wasters and suggesting improvements and upgrades. Under the federal government's ecoENERGY Retrofit initiative, if you implement the suggested changes within 18 months, you can qualify for up to $5,000 in reimbursement grants.2 Pump up your insulation. It's an effective way to reduce heat loss so you don't have to work the thermostat so hard. Improving your attic insulation can earn you back up to $400 in grants through ecoEnergy. 3 Weather-strip your exterior doors. It's inexpensive, easy, and keeps warm air in -- and chilly drafts out.4 Load up on stylish cardigans and hoodies and chic throw blankets. Use them to stay snug when you lower your thermostat by 1°C. Each degree lower you set your thermostat, you'll save 3% on your heating bill. Turn it down another three degrees when you leave the house or go to bed.5 Install an inexpensive (from $30!) programmable thermostat. That way, maintaining the correct temperature throughout the day and night is a no-brainer. 6 Switch to a high-efficiency heater. It's another opportunity to cut energy use while cashing in with ecoEnergy rebates.7 Buy new furnace filters. Keep your furnace filters clean and regularly replace old ones so your furnace can run more efficiently -- thus cutting costs. If your filters are disposable, replace them once a month. If they're washable or reusable, clean them every two or three weeks during high-use season and only replace them when they become damaged. Image courtesy of Pottery Barn. page 2 8 Caulk your windows. Cut drafts around minute window cracks. Use an interior formula caulking indoors and an exterior formula outdoors for best results. 9 Shrink-wrap the windows with a dedicated plastic film from the hardware store. It's fast, cheap and adds an insulating thermal layer that can reduce heat loss through the window by 25 to 50%!10 ... Or replace them altogether. Older windows can be upgraded with EnergyStar-rated windows that will reduce heat loss in winter (and heat gain in summer). 11 Turn on your ceiling fans. Reverse them from the summer setting, and you'll push warm air back down from ceiling level into your living area. Fans use less energy than the furnace.12 Vacuum the coils at the back of your fridge. Consider this seasonal maintenance. The coils disperse heat taken from inside the fridge and when they're covered in a layer of dust, they disperse the heat less efficiently, meaning your fridge uses more energy to keep its cool. And that's not cool.13 Switch to heavier drapes. Velvet drapes will cut drafts, and a change of window treatment always provides a nice transition between seasons anyway. Be sure to keep the drapes of south and west-facing windows pulled back on sunny days, so your home can absorb plenty of ambient heat.14 Wrap your air ducts and hot-water pipes to reduce heat loss. Use pipe insulation wrap or polyethelyne or neoprene pipe sleeves. 15 Close heat vents in guest rooms, attics, store rooms and other unused spaces. Why divert heat and up your energy consumption for rooms that aren't in use? Close the vents, then close the doors to these rooms. Just don't forget to open the ducts when guests stay over (unless you don't want them staying too long!) Image courtesy of Pottery Barn.- Credit
- Yuki Hayashi
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Design lesson: Entertaining your senses Design lesson: Entertaining your senses
Design lesson: Entertaining your senses ofpage 1 Glasses raised mid-air for a toast, the clink of crystal, a sip of wine -- it's a familiar ritual that signals the start of a meal or other social gathering. With grace and ceremony, this effortless gesture encapsulates all five of our senses: sight, sound, touch, scent and taste. Creating a memorable party is as much about this collaboration of the senses as it is about finding the right recipes. When entertaining, here are some of the ways I aim to provide a sensual experience that guests remember long after dessert is served. TouchComfort is a priority. I typically choose soft, plush seating that's inviting to curl up in. Curved furnishings soften angular architecture, and the additions of a reading lamp and ottoman turn an underused chair into a spot for lingering.Details, details, details -- they make or break a room. Choose cushions that beg to be touched, like the ones at left by knitwear designer Olena Zylak. Shine door knobs and silver to a high gleam. Position a pinspot light on the contours of an Inuit sculpture and watch people gravitate toward it. Set the table with a crisply pressed cloth and your best dishes, glassware and candlesticks. SoundIn a quiet room, a tabletop water fountain contributes to a pleasing ambience. Hang bells from the front door to signal the arrival of guests. And what's a party without music? I aim for a diverse mix, from Frank Sinatra to Amy Winehouse. For background music, I like to put on compilation CDs -- the Buddha-Bar series is my favourite. page 2 ScentIt's true that guests can't help wandering into the kitchen. It's likely the aroma of food being prepared that draws them in. Beyond the kitchen, I place scented candles or fragrant plants like rosemary here and there to fill a space with seductive perfume. Incense may be too strong for the dining room, but it's ideal for a powder room. Fresh flowers are always right. During the holidays, evergreen boughs create lush and fragrant arrangements. TasteI wouldn't describe myself as a great cook, so I refrain from complicated recipes that stress me out. "Keep it simple" is my motto, and I try to feature seasonal ingredients. I do, however, have a knack for making great coffee, so I enhance my coffee service with fresh whipped cream, dark chocolate shavings and cinnamon. SightI've learned that an object of beauty, whether it's a sofa or a vase, is best appreciated when there's empty space surrounding it. So at least once a year, I rearrange my rooms, culling the surplus from the necessary. My husband and I reposition the furniture, angling it toward the fireplace in winter and outdoor vistas in summer. Including organic elements like plants, natural materials and water features keeps interiors alive. Lighting affects us physiologically and emotionally, so it's essential to create a layered scheme combining ambient, task and decorative illumination. Glittering candles dress up the mantel and dining table, dramatic uplighting turns a plant into sculpture, a twinkling chandelier encircles guests in a glow, and a floor lamp with a black opaque shade highlights a group of collectibles. Speaking of collections, they're the personality of a room, so make yours meaningful. I collect artwork. I love portaits, photography of abandoned buildings and oil paintings of fanciful subjects. Groupings needn't be elaborate to be effective: my best friend displays botanical prints, and my Aunt Sandi collects miniature shoes.- Credit
- Kimberley Seldon
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Home library: Favourite books Home library: Favourite books
Home library: Favourite books ofpage 1 COLIN & JUSTIN’S HOME HEIST STYLE GUIDE by Colin McAllister and Justin Ryan, $32, Penguin Canada, softcover, 224 pages. According to our favourite Scottish imports, Colin and Justin (of HGTV Canada’s Home Heist and How Not To Decorate fame), the biggest problem Canadian homeowners face is that they don’t know their own style. With help from Colin and Justin, discover who you are (at least in the design department!) and how to create a home that reflects your good taste. Plus, personalize rooms using mood boards, and get advice on kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms, as well as budget-savvy ideas for storage, flooring, lighting and accessories. MICHAEL S. SMITH HOUSES by Michael S. Smith with Christine Pittell, $58, Rizzoli, hardcover, 208 pages. In his book, the American interior designer extraordinaire says, "Everything we love in life -- fragrance, food, fashion, art -- is about contrast and tension between elements. It’s the medley of flavours that makes a dish taste good." Smith applies the same philosophy to his stunning designs, which combine unusual patterns, colours and styles, like multiple florals or eclectic groupings of accessories, new and old. Here, he shares the thought process and inspirations behind his designs, such as movies, childhood memories, magazines and hotels. Smith also invites readers inside his Los Angeles home (which he completely rebuilt over a four-year period, taking it from Regency style to English country) and the houses of some of his clients. Once you’ve seen his designs, which have a welcoming, unpretentious layered feel, you’ll want to enrich your space with personality and elegant simplicity, too. THE LUXURY BATHROOM by Samantha Nestor, $69, Potter, hardcover, 224 pages. This collection of gorgeous bathrooms in homes across the United States offers an intimate look at how the other half bathes. The 35 spaces, created by top designers like Jamie Drake and David Adler, feature luxe details like leather tiles, floor-to-ceiling marble and red onyx, Lalique and crystal chandeliers, and one-of-a-kind custom bathtubs. Many feel more like living rooms or art galleries than loos because they’re so spacious and comfortably designed. KITCHENS: A SUNSET DESIGN GUIDE by Karen Templer, $26 (includes DVD), Sunset, softcover, 224 pages. BATHROOMS: A SUNSET DESIGN GUIDE by Bridget Biscotti Bradley, $26 (includes DVD), Sunset, softcover, 224 pages. Before you even step into a design centre, rush out and buy these books. Created by a panel of American designers, architects and home builders, Kitchens will help you build a room you love. From setting your budget to choosing the shape of your kitchen to deciding on materials, you’ll handle your reno like a pro. In Bathrooms, learn how to design a half, shared, master or kids' bathroom that suits your family's needs (with a good lock so you can linger in the tub). This well-illustrated and organized book will ensure you make informed decisions about flooring, cabinetry, countertops and fixtures (like environmentally friendly toilets). Both books contain inspirational photos and an interactive Mac- and PC-compatible DVD, so you can design your new rooms on your home computer. page 2 HER FAVESJasmine Baker, director of special events at the Drake Hotel in Toronto, shares her picks for planning soirees, small and large. PERFECT PARTIES: THE ULTIMATE STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE by Alison Price, $25, Whitecap, 2003, softcover, 176 pages. "I love Perfect Parties because it inspires me with gorgeous images of really lavish events at home, all the while reminding you to keep things simple. It breaks down the event-planning process: sending out invitations (from when to include a map to allowing time for refusals), planning menus, setting tables, choosing tableware and linens, booking help and deciding on lighting. There are also smart little reminders, such as avoiding scented candles that are too fragrant if you're hosting a dinner party." WILLIAMS-SONOMA ENTERTAINING: COCKTAIL PARTIES by Georgeanne Brennan, $32, Free Press, 2006, hardcover, 144 pages. "People often think they can't have a cocktail party for 30 at home because they don't have enough chairs, but in fact, the fewer seats you have, the more your guests will mingle. You'll find great tips and suggestions on issues like room flow, the number of pieces of finger food to serve per person per hour, seating arrangements and setting up a bar. Also included: menus and recipes, plus timelines for different types of stylish parties, depending on the season. These are simple events anyone can host, and with the easy explanations provided, you'll enjoy your parties as much as your guests do."- Credit
- Jenn Houlihan
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Make your florals last longer Make your florals last longer
Make your florals last longer of6 tips Floral design guru Michael Pellegrino, co-owner of Toronto's Teatro Verde, gets asked the same question all the time: "How do I make my floral arrangements last longer?" Well, says Michael, it depends on how you care for them. Here, he shares six tips for keeping your flowers looking fresh.1 Fill containers at least three-quarters full so flowers have enough water.2 Use tepid water, not hot or cold. "It relaxes and conditions the flowers, and is especially important if they've been out of water for a little while," says Michael. "It revives them."3 Stir in floral food, or, if you have none on hand, a pinch of sugar. "We've done several tests with floral food in the store," says Michael. "We'll put five stems in treated water and five stems in non-treated water, and we definitely see a difference in the longevity of the flowers."4 Refresh water every few days. "Flowers can drink up a lot of water, especially in the first couple of days," says Michael. "So be sure to check the water level." 5 Re-cut stems and clean them of algae approximately every three days. "Cutting your stems as the days go on will make flowers last longer," says Michael. For example, start with an arrangement of long-stem roses, which are about 50 cm long each. After two days, cut them to about 25 cm; three or four days after that, cut again; then keep snipping every few days until you have just two inches of stem. "You can put those in little julep cups. Divide the flowers and make little arrangements for along the kitchen counter or along the table," he says. "We use roses for our displays at Teatro Verde and we can get three or four weeks out of them."6 Keep your flowers out of direct sunlight. "Flowers don't like the heat," says Michael. "But they do like to be somewhere where there's a lot of natural light."- Credit
- Corinna vanGerwen
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High/low video: Bar carts High/low video: Bar carts
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Colin & Justin's 5 winter makeover tips Colin & Justin's 5 winter makeover tips
Colin & Justin's 5 winter makeover tips of5 ways to makeover your home for winter Scottish design duo Colin McAllister and Justin Ryan are in Canada filming their latest series, Colin & Justin's Home Heist on HGTV, and they want to offer you some advice. Don't give your home the cold shoulder this season; treat it to a new winter wardrobe.Think about it: what's happening to your wardrobe at the moment? Are you still in summer's linen tops and cool-as-you-like sandals? Or have plunging temperatures pushed you to scan the stores for cashmere cardis and warm woollen skirts? Well, if it's time to wrap up the body, then it's time to wrap up the home! 1 Dress your home in winter fashions. Think cosy and swap your lightweight silk cushions and floaty window dressings for items with a fluffy or warm-to-the-touch nature. We love to snuggle up in chic bedding, like the British Plaid collection from Toronto-based bedding couturier Lee Wilder Bedwear (866-787-0080; Toronto, 416-203-9086 or leewilder.com to order). 2 Try out a new look. A simple rejig can give the impression of freshness and difference without costing any money whatsoever. Move furniture and accessories around until you find a new arrangement that you like. Group similar items together to create interest zones; for example, pair up lamps on a dull sideboard for an instant lift. 3 Accessorize! Update your home with fresh flowers, candles, cushions and throws. Accessories can change the mood and dynamic of a space. For colour, choose pieces in warm hues like rich red and deep orange, and you'll be sure to raise your room's temperature. 4 Slap on some makeup. Paint or wallpaper one accent or feature wall. Doing so can really smarten up your environment without the cost of redecorating your entire space. 5 Add warmth with light. Proper lighting can really cosy up a space. As the months roll forward, it's best to avoid harsh lighting. Instead, favour warm glows created by lights like the Mini Table Lamp in hot red from EQ3 (eq3.com for stores). Or invest in an affordable dimmer switch like Lutron's Maestro Preset 600W in white from The Home Depot (800-628-0525 or homedepot.ca for stores), and you'll be changing your mood on a whim. Even easier, opt for the simple, natural glow of flickering scented candles. Bliss! Catch the boys on Colin & Justin's Home Heist; see hgtv.ca for local showtimes. Image courtesy of HGTV -
10 pretty pillows 10 pretty pillows
10 pretty pillows ofPillows 1 - 5 Comfy, cosy and a great accent piece, the throw pillow is a staple of home decor. Allowing you to change your home with the seasons, they can also easily update a drab old room by adding some colour or texture.Here is our top 10 list of favourite pretty pillows: Giving your space a hint of geometric shapes and a whole lot of texture, the Layla pillow from Crate and Barrel is a great addition to any smooth-lined sofa. Made of a soft wool-blend felt, this pillow has a removable cover, making it easy to wash. Think you might get tired of seeing circles? Flip the pillow over to show off a solid cream wool.($60 US) The easiest eway to dress up those neutrals in your home is to add a punch of colour with accents like throw pillows. Well, the Juniper pillow from Unison does the trick. Available in a 17x17 form, the Juniper comes in a variety of delightfully bright colours including Punch (shown), Spruce and Aqua. This feather-filled beauty can bloom spring freshness in your home all year round for $52 US. Florals don't need to go out of style, especially when they are constantly being reinvented in cool, chic designs. Pottery Barn's new Rosa-Red pillow cover combines applique and intricate embroidery to bring your home into full bloom, whichever the season. The tiny decorative French knots are stitched by hand, making this rosy red pillow cover worth every penny. ($88) Let it shine! Your home, that is, with these stunning gold print pillow covers from Accents de Ville. Metallics can work for you and your home if you introduce them in small amounts, and these pillows offer the perfect way to do just that. Pair them with a bold colour or with a neutral; you can't go wrong! Take your pick of either for MSRP $40 (leaves), $38 (fern). Chocolate never looked so good! When you crave dark accents in your home, but think black is a bit harsh, a chocolate brown is the ideal compromise. The Dandelion Puff pillow from Wishfern is made of silk and offers a great way to incorporate florals into a modern home. Available in lighter tones as well, this sweet pillow is priced at $65. Main image courtesy of Pottery Barn Pillows 6 - 10 Pretty pillows aren't just useful for making your home beautiful; they can serve as a great conversation piece as well! The beautiful C.C.F.C pillows from Om Home were named after the Calcutta Cricket and Football Club. The white embroidery reperesents the club's compound, where the spirit of the raj still lingers in dress codes and tea time, and the colourful fabric represents the bustling 21st-century life outide of the four walls. Available in a selection of colours and your pick of 18x18 ($70 US) or 24x24 ($90 US). Mod is back! Crate and Barrel have introduced the fab Radius pillow into their collection of home accessories, and we couldn't be more pleased. This pillow adds chic geometrics to your home with its chocolate and plum cotton velvet circles, and has a rich chocolate backing. Feather-down filled and in a 20x20 square format, this pillow is priced at $40 US. Floral themed home accessories come in all shapes, sizes and styles, and this one offers a great alternative to the traditional look. A soft teal, this pillow is covered with hundreds of hand-cut, hand-applied petals and adds a textured luxury to any space. From Pier 1 Imports, the rectangular Felt Petals pillow is priced at $40. Even though throw pillows often act as a way to add bright colour to a room, there's no shame in buying neutral and deep tones to work with your space.This is especially the case when it comes to the great Swish pillows from Accents de Ville. Available in beige or brown, these neutrals are anything but boring with their subtle and stylish embroidered swirl design. (MSRP $30 each) Nothing's more comfortable than curling up on the sofa in front of the fire, enveloped in blankets and surrounded by throw pillows. This cable knit pillow cover from Pottery Barn oozes comfort, and its ivory colour and textural fabric makes it easy to mix and match with your other sofa pillows. ($58) Main image courtesy of Pottery Barn- Credit
- Lauren McPhillips
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