How-To
Holiday project: Peppermint candy stick
Holiday project: Peppermint candy stick of
Project: Peppermint candy stick Christmas is the time to indulge in sweets. You can turn a small dowel into a peppermint candy treat by covering it in colourful ribbon stripes. Bundle a trio of these cool confections together with a big bow. Add an ornament hook and hang them on your tree. Or use them as decorations on gift-wrapped packages.You will need:Cookie sheetKitchen aluminum foilScissorsFour 1 foot lengths of 1/4 inch wide ribbon, 1 in light pink, 1 in dark pink, 1 in red, and 1 in whiteGlue stick4 inch length of 5/8 inch wide wooden dowelTwo 1/4 inch sticker dots in red To make:1 Cover cookie sheet with aluminum foil.2 Using scissors, cut ribbon lengths in half to form eight 6 inch lengths. Set all aside but one.3 Lay ribbon length on cookie sheet. Using glue stick, apply thin coat of glue to one side of ribbon, leaving 1/4 inch unglued at one end.4 Adhere glued end of ribbon to top of dowel. Twist ribbon around dowel, creating a spiral. Leave approximately 1 inch between spirals. Adhere ribbon to bottom of dowel. Snip off excess ribbon. Set dowel aside and allow to dry completely.5 Repeat steps 3 and 4 with remaining lengths of ribbon, overlapping and alternating colors of ribbon as desired. You may not need all ribbon lengths to completely cover the dowel.6 Place red sticker dots at top and bottom of dowel. If necessary, reinforce with glue.Excerpted from Instant Gratification Ornaments by Genevieve A. Sterbenz. Copyright 2001 by Chronicle Books. Excerpted with permission by Chronicle Books. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
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- Genevieve A. Sterbenz
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Holiday project: Glitter ornament Holiday project: Glitter ornament
Holiday project: Glitter ornament ofProject: Glitter ornament Applying glitter is a great way to revive ordinary colored ball ornaments you already own. All you need is glue, along with glitter, and a little imagination to create any design you like. You can also personalize an ornament by writing someone's name on the side. Use the nozzle of the glue bottle to write the name, then apply glitter. Date the other side using the same method, and you've created a holiday keepsake.You will needCookie sheetKitchen aluminum foil3 inch diameter pink glass ball ornament with removable metal cap6 inch spqare styrofoam blockDrinking strawHigh tack white glueMicro glitter in coordinating color To make:1 Cover cookie sheet with aluminum foil. Remove cap from glass ball and set aside. 2 To facilitate decorating, place styrofoam block on cookie sheet and stick straw in center. Insert cap end of glass ball on straw.3 Make swirl design or other desired design on surface of ball with nozzle of glue bottle.4 Sprinkle glitter over glued are. Let dry completely. Shake off excess glitter. Replace cap.Excerpted from Instant Gratification: Ornaments by Genevieve A. Sterbenz. Copyright 2004 by Chronicle Books. Excerpted with permission by Chronicle Books. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.- Credit
- Genevieve A. Sterbenz
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Hotel style: Opus Hotel Hotel style: Opus Hotel
Hotel style: Opus Hotel ofOpus Hotel Stylish, luxurious and divinely comfortable, Opus Hotel in Vancouver, B.C., takes a fresh approach to hotel living spaces. When it opened in fall 2002, the brick Yaletown establishment was considered Vancouver's first trendy hotel and it remains a world-class leader in stylish comfort -- it was voted one of the best 500 hotels in the world by Travel and Leisure Magazine in 2006. Opus Hotel has 96 rooms presented in five different decor and colour schemes. Red rooms are modern and minimalist, blue rooms more sophisticated; green rooms are for the artistic type, while yellow are more conservative; taupe is for glamour (think chrome and leopard prints). Opus Hotel's general manager, Daniel Craig, says they attract a diverse mix of guests -- from trendy vacationers to corporate travellers and upscale weekenders. "We also do quite well with the entertainment production business," he says. Rumoured celebrity visitors include Lenny Kravitz, Sting, Annie Lennox and Ben Affleck. The lookFeatured here is Opus Hotel's red room scheme -- their take on modern and minimalist room design. Interior designer Karl Lohnes observes that "a room with clean lines and contemporary decor can create a peaceful environment due to the lack of pattern, colours and accessories." The inspirationDaniel Craig says they went after a contemporary boutique style that still felt residential. "You don't feel like you're in a hotel; rather, you're staying at your cool friend's apartment," he explains. While some hotels can be stylish but uncomfortable, Opus Hotel aspires to merge creature comforts with modern style. Design DIY: walls, furnishings, art DIY solutionsKarl Lohnes offers these hints to copy the look of Opus Hotel's chic red room design:1 WallsThis room's decor has impact by using one colour (the red paint) to create an exciting interior that still instills calm due to its simplicity. The walls in this well-designed room could be painted almost any other colour and the furnishings, carpeting and artwork would still work!Paint suggestions: • Benjamin Moore's Vermillion 2002-10 • Benjamin Moore's Ruby Red 2001-102 FurnishingsThe dark wood-stained furnishings create drama in the room by using the dark tones and add sharp contrast to the wall colour. When choosing furnishings with darker tones, try to be consistent; mixing up various wood tones gives a room an eclectic look rather than a modern feel. Dark wood furnishing suggestions: • Sears Whole Home 'Cacao' Tables Photo courtesy of sears.ca 3 Upholstered furnitureA large creamy sofa with modern lines looks great in almost any interior. It helps to keep the room bright and is neutral enough to change up by adding coloured pillows and throws. Consider choosing all squared-off or all curvy-lined styles of furnishings.Square-shaped upholstered furnishing: • UpCountry's Tacoma Sofa and Gramercy Chair Photo courtesy of upcountry.com4 ArtworkBlack and white artwork is always a classic in modern interiors. Even old black and white photos of family members can look hip when enlarged and framed with white matting and black frames.Art:• Home Depot's Artistic Innovations 'Urban Scenery II,' $24.99 eachPhoto courtesy of homedepot.ca5 AccessoriesSimply shaped accessories like lamps, vases and decorative items should be colourless in order to have longevity in a room. The trendier the colour, the more often you will be re-accessorizing.Lamps: • Restoration Hardware's Maxwell Accent and Table Lamps -- bronze.Photo courtesy of restorationhardware.com 6 CarpetsContemporary means plain and simple! Patterned rugs often make a room feel too busy. Plain rugs keep a room calm and collected. Choose the same colour as you might choose for a neutral sofa in the room and buy the best quality you can afford. 100 per cent cotton, wool or silk is best.Area rugs: • Pottery Barn's 100 per cent wool Solid Hand-Knotted Rug in ClayPhoto: Pottery Barn's 100% Solid Hand-Knotted RugsPhoto courtesy of potterybarn.comFor more hotel information, go to opushotel.com- Credit
- Colleen Tully
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Paint colours for home resale Paint colours for home resale
Paint colours for home resale ofpaint colours One of the most important rules of thumb when you're preparing your home for sale is to look at it from a buyer's point of view, not just from your own. Nowhere is that truer than in the wall colours you choose. You may love strong colours and have very stylish interior decor that goes with them, but colour can present several drawbacks when it comes to resale. As Toronto designer Shelley Kirsch points out, "Colour adds a lot of personality to an environment -- which is good and bad. If a buyer is very visual, they can see beyond a certain colour; but if they aren't, the colour can distract, making it hard for them to visualize themselves in the room."Of course, that needn't mean you should always paint all the rooms boring beige before you put a house on the market. In fact, that could conceivably have the opposite effect, making a house seem plain-Jane (especially if it's limited in architectural detail or is underfurnished). The ideal, in Kirsch's view, is to choose colours with just the right touch of life to them: neutral enough to present a blank canvas,but interesting enough to add some character. We asked her to give us some of her favourite all-round paint colours, both for resale and for very livable interiors in general.Quincy Tan HC-25, Benjamin Moore"I find this putty-grey-beigey-taupe to be a very neutral, non-competitive colour, but it also adds a certain depth and character that brings out the beauty of the home, rather than merely acting as a backdrop. Also, it allows you to use accents in stronger colours and still maintain a classic look." 40YY-51/084, ICI Paints. "Grey is very trendy right now, especially warm greys like this one. It's especially beautiful in townhouses, with architectural detail picked out in white trim, like cornice and crown mouldings, or marble. It's a very sophisticated colour, and classic settings like this seem to suit it better than modern or too-bright settings, which might make it look cold." Note: Swatch colour may appear different on some monitors. Main image courtesy of Pratt & Lambert. paint colours 2 Stone White 11, Farrow & Ball. "This has a vintage, mission feeling to it that I like. They call it a white, but it's really a chalky grey-green. It's beautiful with gumwood trim, wood floors, in fact any natural wood." Sesame, Sico Paints. "If you want the warmth of yellow but are unsure -- and I consider yellows to be the hardest colour in the palette to work with -- you might want to try going for an amber or cloudy yellow instead. This is a beautiful, soft greyed yellow that looks marvellous with Cloud White [Benjamin Moore OC-40] trim." Silver Blonde 2141, Pratt & Lambert. "A mushroomy tone like this one is very versatile. It looks equally lovely with red, or with cream upholstery. This is what you'd call the most ‘circular' of colours, in that it looks lovely with both light and dark woods and accents. It's a clean, modern, almost Scandinavian look." Note: Swatch colour may appear different on some monitors. Main image courtesy of Pratt & Lambert.- Credit
- Martha Uniacke Breen
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Project: Asian paper floor mat Project: Asian paper floor mat
Project: Asian paper floor mat ofProject: Asian paper floor mat Use your favourite Asian papers on the floor by laminating them to a sturdy canvas base. Choose a light to medium weight paper that will easily absorb the diluted PVA glue and adhere well to the canvas surface. For a free-form look, layer your papers into an interesting collage. For a more modern piece, create a tiled look using same-size squares. This version was inspired by Asian wall hangings that juxtapose and layer rectangular shaped. A wash of burnt umber paint was used to five the patina of age. Materials• 38" x 28" (97 cm x 71 cm) cotton canvas• assortment of four decorative Asian papers for the background• paper with a central motif (Sources for this include post cards, calendars, and greeting cards.)• PVA glue• acrylic primer• burnt umber acrylic paint• burnt umber artist's oil paint• polyurethane varnish• disposable sponge brushes• roller• scissors• ruler or measuring tapeStep 1 Measure and cut a 38" x 28" (97 cm x 71 cm) piece of canvas. Use a roller to apply one coat of acrylic primer. Let dry.Step 2 Plan the arrangement of your paper design. Cut out each shape and set aside. Thin PVA glue with water (one part glue to one part water) and adhere each sheet to the canvas, starting with the bottom layer. Use the palm of your hand to gently smooth out all the papers, starting in the center and working any air bubbles out and off the edges. Let dry thoroughly. Step 3Dilute burnt umber acrylic with water and apply a wash to the papered canvas using a sponge brush. If the paint wash is too dark, you can use a paper towel to blot off any excess paint.Step 4 Add a few drops burnt umber artist's oil paint to the polyurethane. Apply a thin coat to your papered mat using a sponge brush. Let dry completely. Lightly sand with fine sandpaper. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth. Repeat to add a minimum of three coats, sanding between each, and applying the brush strokes of each layer in the opposite direction. Excerpted from Paper House: Handmade Paper Crafts for your Home by Mary Ann Hall. Copyright 2001 by Mary Ann Hall. Excerpted with permission by Rockport Publishers Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.- Credit
- Mary Ann Hall
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Project: Cuddly afghan Project: Cuddly afghan
Project: Cuddly afghan ofWhat you need Stitches and techniques usedChain, single crochet, half double crochet, doublt crochet, triple crochetChanging colourApplying fringeMaterialsPlymouth's Encore (worsted weight; 75% acrylic/25% woold; each approx 3 1/2 oz/100 g and 200 yd/184 m), 8 balls Steel Blue #9620 (A) and 7 balls Ice Green #801 (B)Crochet hook, size 1/9 (5.50 mm) or size needed to obtain gaugeGaugeIn patt, 4 sts=1" and 2 rows=1 1/4". To save time later, check your gauge. NotesTo make triange: Ch 5, sc into second ch from hook, hdc into next ch, dc into next ch, tr into next ch. Beg and end each colour with 6" tails; for ease in finishing, these tails will be worked into fringe later. This afghan is worked sideways. Finished sizeApprox. 48 x 68", excluding fringe What to do Stripe pattern*1 row A, 1 row B. Repeat from * for patt. AfghanWith A, ch 272Foundation Row (WS): Sc into second ch from hook, *make triangle, skip next 4 ch, sc into next ch. Repeat from * across. Change colour, ch 4, turn. Row 1 (RS): Sc into top of triangle, * working into next 4 ch along side of triangle, work sc into first ch, hdc into next ch, dc into next ch, tr into next ch, sc into top of next triangle. Repeat from * across to last triangle, ending row with working into next 4 ch along side of triangle, work sc into first ch, hdc into next ch, dc into next ch, yarn over twice, insert hook into last ch of triangle and pull up a loop, (yarn over and draw it through 2 loops on hook) twice, yarn over twice, insert hook into last sc and pull up a loop, (yarn over and raw it through 2 loops on hook) twice, yarn over and draw it through all 3 loops on hook. Change colour, ch 1, turn. Row 2: Sc into first st, *make triangle, skip next 4 sts, sc into next tr. Repat from * across, ending row with triangle, skp next 4 sts, sc into top of turning-ch-4. Change colour, ch 4, turn. Repeat Rows 1 and 2 in Stripe Patt until piece measures approx 48" from beg, ending after Row 1 of patt. DO NOT CHANGE COLOUR. Ch1, turn. Next Row (WS):Sc into first st, *ch 4, skip next 4 sts, sc into next tr. Repeat from * across, ending row with ch 4, skip next 4 sts, sc into top of turning-ch-4. Fasten off. FinishingWith RS facing, attach additional strands of matching fringe to the two shorter sides of afghan. Trim fringe so that it's even. VariationIf your decorating scheme allows for two coordinating afghans in the living room, lucky you! Make the second one just as the first except chance the Stripe Patt slightly by starting with 1 row of A, then alternating 2 rows of B with 2 rows of A throughout, and ending the afghan with a single row of A. You'll be amazed at how different the two patterns look!Excerpted from the Cozy Crochet Kit by Melissa Leapman. Copyright 2005 by Melissa Leapman. Excerpted with permission by Raincoast Books. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.- Credit
- Melissa Leapman
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Colour blocking: A trend in painting Colour blocking: A trend in painting
Colour blocking: A trend in painting ofpage 1 Looking for a way to spruce up your walls? If wallpaper isn't your thing but you're dying for a splash of colour and pattern, then colour blocking may be just the technique you're looking for. A trend that has periodically to come back into fashion since the ‘70s, colour blocking is done by selecting zones on a wall or ceiling and painting them a different colour from the main wall colour. This technique is an easy way to highlight a feature or simply dress up an empty wall.Dominique Pepin from Sico Paints says that imagination is the only limit when it comes to colour blocking. "Shapes vary from stripes, rectangles, squares, circles or a mix of several," she says. "If you're using more than one tone, you can place shapes side by side or even have them overlapping." If you're not confident choosing colours or shapes that will work in your room, envisage what atmosphere you want your space to reflect. "Shapes and colours will influence the result," says Dominique. “With colour blocking, you can use it to create a sophisticated look or a fun look,” she says. “It's always a question of taste; what is beautiful to one person may not be appealing to another.” Using circles and curved lines tend to invoke a light and fun feeling, whereas rectangles and sharp edges can create a more serious space. When it comes to colour blocking, the possibilities are endless and you can find inspiration in almost anything you like. For example, a colour palette in a favourite piece of artwork could inspire you to use similar colour combinations on your walls. Images courtesy of Sico Paints. page 2 How to get the lookHere are a few ideas from Dominique for incorporating colour blocking into your home:• Inexpensively create the illusion of a headboard in your bedroom with creative painting techniques. You can use a solid tone on the wall behind your bed or be creative with shapes.• Highlight wall decor. You can use colour blocking as a backdrop to frame decorative elements like wall mirrors or artwork.• Block off an area in an open space. You can create defined living spaces by using colour blocking to separate a dining area from a living area.• Update furniture. Who says colour blocking needs to be reserved for walls? You can take an old armoire and spruce it up by painting the sides a different shade than the front.Colour block your wallsDomique offers up six handy tips to colour block your own walls:1 Plan the shape on the wall according to the size of the space. Be sure to take into consideration the placement of furniture in the room when designing your colour block.2 Choose your paint colours and finish, being as creative as you wish!3 Measure your shape or pattern on the wall, drawing very lightly with a pencil4 Apply painter's tape to the lines if they're straight. If using curved lines, it's best to use a stencil.5 Paint within the lines of your shape, being careful not to use too much paint; you don't want it to seep outside the lines.6 Carefully remove the painter's tape or stencil immediately after painting. Images courtesy of Sico Paints.- Credit
- Lauren McPhillips
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Hotel style: Hotel Le Germain Hotel style: Hotel Le Germain
Hotel style: Hotel Le Germain ofHotel le Germain, Toronto The hotelLocated on a quiet side street in the middle of Toronto's entertainment district (clubland, the Rogers Centre, the trendy Queen Street West shopping strip), the Hotel Le Germain epitomizes boutique-hotel chic. Its minimalist grey exterior gives way to a warm, richly toned cocoon of neutral sand and rich mahogany wood tones in the soaring lobby library area. The lookEach of the rooms and suites has a clean, welcoming look. "The feeling is modern and calm," says Viateur Michaud, owner and principal designer of Quebec-based Lemay-Michaud Architecture & Design. A neutral palette and minimum of fussy details, plus large, recessed windows and an open-plan design make for a relaxing vibe. "We wanted to please the customer by providing intimacy and privacy in a space that feels more like a living room," says Viateur.Image courtesy of germaintoronto.com DIY solutions DIY solutionsLove the look? Here's how to get it in your bedroom and ensuite: 1 Quench your thirstKeep a bottle of mineral water on your nightstand along with an elegant glass souvenir from your stay. The Hotel le Germain sells tumblers customized with the room number from your stay. Visit hotelboutique.com. 2 BedsA pedestal bed has a sleek modern look, especially in a rich brown stain. IKEA's Malm Sultan Lade. Add more function while keeping things looking sleek with a Malm night table, which can be attached to the headboard. Image courtesy of IKEA.ca 3 BeddingDress your bed in crisp white, 220-count cotton sheets from Au Lit's Hotel line. Nothing's sexier than great quality bedding -- or more restful, if that's more your thing! Image courtesy of Aulitfinelinens.com 4 Flooring Slate tiles are sophisticated and add a dark, modern feel to the bathroom. They can be expensive though, so one way to get the look for less is through rustic slate-look ceramic tile like this Cairo Blue floor tile from Eliane. Image courtesy of Homedepot.ca 5 Accessories A glass vanity console like the Tiffany with built-in sink makes a grand statement in a modern bathroom. It's an impressive hit of eye candy that seems to float weightlessly in the room. Image courtesy of Art-bathe.com- Credit
- Yuki Hayashi
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All about painting All about painting
All about painting oflinks Designer faves: GreenThese paint picks from some of Canada's best designers will have you turning green with envy.Designer faves: YellowSome of Canada's best designers pick their favourite hues from among spring's signature paint colour: yellow.Designer faves: Blue Canada's top designers share their fave blue paint picks.How to: Throw a painting party Your guide to throwing a painting party that gets the job done!Paint colours designers loveDesigners dish on their favourite shades of paint.Painting tips: Paint with easePainting any part of your home can be a daunting task. But these painting tips will have you painting like a pro. Before starting your next painting job, follow our painting tips. New trends in paint New technology and innovation make painting super-simple for the DIYer.Buying guide: Paint The home improvement market offers lots of choice. Find out what your options are and which supplier is best for you. 10 steps to perfect wallsEnsure professional results when you tackle your next home painting project.- Credit
- styleathome.com
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Design solutions: Colour trends Design solutions: Colour trends
Design solutions: Colour trends ofpage 1 Q: We’re trying to be more green in our house renovations. Can you recommend some brands of low-emission paint? Mike Carruthers, Kensington, P.E.I. A: This is a hot topic in the decorating world. Paints that are labelled “eco friendly” or “low emission” have a lower than normal concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs lurk in everything from nail polish remover and furnishings to adhesives and lacquers. These compounds – formaldehyde, toluene, benzene and methane among them – are released into the atmosphere, causing unpleasant odours (hence the term “off-gassing”), and health problems that range in severity from eye irritation to liver damage to cancer. Interestingly, there’s still no legislation in Canada defining what constitutes low, medium or high levels of VOCs in common consumer products. However, in April the Canadian government announced plans to implement regulations similar to those existing in the United States. In the meantime, I recommend you consider the three national paint lines featured above, which have either no or low VOCs.Q: I’m about to redecorate and am thinking of putting up wallpaper. I like dark, rich colours, but I don’t see them much in magazines like STYLE AT HOME. Are they passé? Is it not a good idea to commit to a dark colour in wallpaper? Rosanna Santilli, Toronto A: I think the reason you haven’t seen the dark colours is actually not because they’re passé but the opposite – the next big thing. If you want to know the upcoming trends in decor, look no further than the fashion runways and racks. Sooner or later those colours find their way into our homes. The deep plum Chrysanthemum wallpaper shown at left, from British company Graham & Brown, is a great example. The line is by the English fashion brand Monsoon, purveyors of what I call a high-end romantic boho look. Amethyst, fig, merlot and sapphire are some of the fashion colours we’ll be seeing in decorating. To make this look work, finish your space with eclectic furnishings. Take inspiration from this photo: combine Moroccan side tables with Granny’s hand-me-downs done up in jewel-tone velvets and shapely plucked-from-around-the-globe accessories. Graham & Brown papers are available through grahambrown.com and at The Home Depot. page 2 Q: We inherited this Gibbard dining room suite and are very happy with it. However, I find that the chairs aren’t suitable for our family; they’re somewhat small, and we’re always cautious when sitting in them (my husband is 6'4"; I’m 5'10"). Should I buy new chairs, and if so, what style would work? Or should I have these chairs made stronger? Heidi Beck, Guelph, Ont.A: You are lucky indeed! The Gibbard Furniture Shops is Canada’s oldest furniture manufacturer. Based in Napanee, Ont., the company has been owned and operated by the Gibbard family for five generations, since 1835. The Gibbard name is synonymous with quality construction. Testament to that fact is the number of stamped Gibbard pieces that have been handed down through generations or sold at antique shops. Despite their quality, antique dining chairs can be too small in scale for today’s dinner guests. Also, the straight-back, wooden dining chairs of yesteryear often don’t suit the more casual way we entertain today. I suggest switching to fully upholstered modern chairs that will work with your other Gibbard pieces. Check out designer Karen Kayne’s gorgeous dining room in “Love at First Sight”, in the October issue of STYLE AT HOME. Chairs like hers would be perfect for you. Also, I love how she used a different style of chair at the heads of the table – steal that idea, too. The other bonus of fully upholstered chairs is that they’ll break up all the wood in your dining room, adding some softness. That said, don’t get rid of your Gibbard chairs! Instead, reposition them throughout your house and enjoy them as sculpture or for more occasional use. Here are some ideas: move your corner cupboard and place one chair on either end of your sideboard, put the armchair in the adjoining living room, and add a chair to a bathroom, bedroom or entryway.Q: I’d like to repeat the drapery fabric from our master bedroom in the ensuite bathroom. How much fabric should I order? Should the curtain itself be lined, even if I hang a vinyl liner? I’d love any other hints about custom-making shower curtains and trims. Clara Lakewood, Tillsonburg, Ont.A: I’m a big fan of custom shower curtains. A fabric curtain adds welcome softness to a room full of hard surfaces. Of course, with anything custom made, the sky’s the limit. Remember the ex-Tyco CEO who was vilified in the press for his $6,000 shower curtain? Yours needn’t cost that much, but the extras can add up. Here are some design tips.LENGTH Choose a length that suits the space. If you have a plain acrylic tub skirt, conceal it with a curtain that goes to the floor. Conversely, if your tub skirt is pretty, show it off with a shorter curtain (as I did). FABRIC Standard shower curtains are 72 inches square and require five yards of fabric. If yours will be larger or if the fabric has a large pattern repeat, you’ll require more yardage. The sewing pro handling your job can tell you how much fabric to get. Midweight cotton or linen is best for shower curtains and won’t require lining. DETAILS Finish the top with pleats and drapery hooks or buttonholes rather than casual grommets. Repeating flourishes in your master bedroom draperies, like pleated headings and trim, is a nice way to harmonize the two spaces. In a small bathroom, don’t go for too much fullness, or the excess fabric could prove bulky. TRIM Some ideas to consider: flat woven tape applied as a border; ball or bead fringe near the top or bottom hem; grosgrain ribbon sewn to the side or bottom edges in a box-pleated ruffle design. LINERS Skip off-gassing PVC vinyl and opt for waterproof polyester fabric instead. Look for a liner that’s mildew resistant and machine washable.- Credit
- Margot Austin
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10 steps to perfect walls 10 steps to perfect walls
10 steps to perfect walls of10 steps to perfect walls A fresh coat of paint is a fast and easy way to inject new life into your home. Todd Greenwood of Greenwood Painting in Mississauga, ON offers the following tips to ensure professional results: 1 Remove furnishings or push to centre of room; cover with drop cloths. 2 Place drop cloths on floor; if plastic, tape down. 3 Turn off electricity. Remove switch plates, outlet covers, chandelier ceiling plates and drapery hardware. 4 Wash walls with detergent or TSP if dirty; let dry. 5 Fill holes or cracks with Spackle; let dry and sand. 6 Lightly sand walls; thoroughly sand trim and semigloss surfaces. Wipe with damp lint-free cloth. 7 Paint ceiling. Tape off joint between ceiling and crown moulding or wall, if desired. Using 2½-inch angled brush, cut-in two- to three-inch-wide band along ceiling edges. Using roller, apply paint in overlapping W's, blending with cut-in areas. Apply two coats; let dry between coats. 8 Paint crown moulding with a two- to three-inch angled brush. 9 Paint one wall at a time. Tape off ceiling and trim; cut-in where wall meets crown moulding or ceiling, windows, doors, baseboards and corners. Apply two coats of paint, or one coat of primer and one or two coats of paint. 10 Paint doors, windowsills and trim from top down, using two- to three-inch angled brush. Use one-inch sash brush for window muntins.Tip: Always remove masking tape while paint is still damp to avoid peeling off any paint.- Credit
- Martha Uniacke Breen
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How to: Make a bed How to: Make a bed
How to: Make a bed ofHow to make a bed: Bed sheets Crisp, clean linens, a fluffy duvet and perfectly plump pillows: These are the makings of a divinely dressed bed and you can achieve one in minutes with a little know-how, some attention to detail and a touch of care. Here's how to beautifully make a bed.Alex Newman, author of Hot Property: Easy Home Staging to Sell Your House for More Money in Any Market (John Wiley & Sons Canada Ltd., 2007) recognizes the power of a beautifully made bed. She believes every room needs a focal point and in the bedroom, the focal point is the bed. "The more beautiful and lavish, the more people will be stopped in their tracks," Alex says.Whether you want to impress prospective homebuyers, wow your visiting mother-in-law or challenge the domestic goddess in you, take some pointers from Alex and your bed-making efforts will result in true beauty. Before you begin, work with bedding that matches or complements the colours in your bedroom and consider whether or not want to show off your bed frame or conceal it with a bed skirt. Hide a metal bed frame with a bed skirt. "Tailored skirts are generally more in vogue, but that doesn't mean the gathered kind can't look good," says Alex. "If you have a sleek Roche Bobois-style bed, definitely no skirt."With bedding that complements your bedroom's decor and a foundation that's skirted -- or decidedly not -- you're ready to make up a perfect bed.How to make a bed: Bed sheetsYour bed sheets make up the base layer of your pretty bed. For maximum appeal, use clean, crisp sheets either fresh from the dryer or freshly pressed. "If you wash your sheets, the dry cleaners will iron them for less than $10," says Alex. She recommends opting for classic white sheets because it "always looks good" and avoiding dark or intensely hued sheets that tend to look dated.Place a fitted sheet on your mattress, tucking each elasticized corner under each mattress corner. Tuck any loose edges under the mattress while smoothing wrinkles as you work. Next, place your flat sheet and blanket, pulling up the flat sheet far enough so there's enough length to fold over the blanket. If you're not using a blanket, Alex suggests folding back the edge of the top sheet anyway for a crisp look. Smooth out any wrinkles and visually check to ensure the overhang on each side is about equal in length. Hospital corners, decorative blankets, pillows and duvets How to make a bed: Hospital corners and decorative blanketsTo fold a "hospital corner", tuck in the sheet and blanket edge along the foot of the bed, pulling the fabric taut so it lies smooth. Next, take a corner of the sheet and blanket, pull it taut and angle it towards the headboard as you tuck it under the mattress, leaving a neat angled edge. Repeat on the other side. Don't obsess over perfect hospital corners, but avoid any bulky lumps and bumps. "As long as it's neat and trim, and carefully tucked in, you're fine," says Alex. "We can't all be nurses, now can we?"There are some blankets that are just too gorgeous to remain hidden under a duvet so go ahead and display these beauties. "Blankets are nice folded at the end of the bed," says Alex. "That suggests a place to relax and read with a cup of tea, while not having to actually climb under the covers." She recommends texture-rich blankets like mohair, cashmere or good polyester facsimiles.How to make a bed: Duvets, comforters and quiltsYou're almost done. With the sheets and blankets dressing your bed, it's time to fluff up your duvet, comforter or quilt and lay it on your bed for its final layer of bedding. Tip: Choose your bedding's top layer according to your room's decor. "Quilts are nice with anything country -- French, Canadiana, Americana," says Alex. "Duvets can go with any decor and have a more modern look, but comforters work just fine."Do a visual check to ensure the duvet, comforter or quilt's overhang is equal in length and no loose blanket or sheet edges are left hanging.How to make a bed: Pillow talkPillows are the perfect finishing touches of a beautifully made bed. Fluff up your pillows and place them at the head of your bed, either propped up against a headboard or laid flat. Use an assortment of pillow sizes for visual interest but don't go overboard. The pillows shouldn't make the bed look too top-heavy or bordello-like, Alex warns.That's it, you're done!When you make up a beautiful bed, your reward is a welcoming retreat where you can revive and restore your energy. According to mattress retailers Sleep Country Canada, you spend one-third of your life sleeping, so devoting time -- and effort -- to make your sleeping area comfortable and pretty is well worth it.- Credit
- Jennifer Melo
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How to: Bring summer into your home How to: Bring summer into your home
How to: Bring summer into your home of1 to 5 When summer finally arrives, we spare no time moving our lives outdoors -- firing up the barbecue, dining al fresco, landscaping the yard, picking fresh herbs and relaxing in the wonderful sun and warm air. However, with so much focus on the great outdoors, it's easy to dismiss simple seasonal ideas that can freshen up the indoors. “The goal is to blur the distinction between the outdoors and indoors,” says Bonnie Trust Dahan, author of Living with the Seasons (Chronicle Books, 2003). “Take a day to think about it and do it,” she says. “It gives a sense of renewal in your house and brings you in touch with the season.” 10 ways to bring the outdoors in1 Change textiles throughoutLighten up any room by exchanging heavy fabrics for breezier ones. In the living room, take down drapes or replace them with an open weave such as chiffon or organza, suggests Bonnie. Change throw-pillow covers and sofa slipcovers in the den, add crisp white -- or bright solid or floral -- percale or linen sheets in the bedroom, use quick-drying towels in the bathroom and opt for natural woven placemats instead of a tablecloth in the dining room. 2 Play with your fruits and vegetablesTurn seasonal produce into a centrepiece for your kitchen or dining table. “Try a dozen lemons in a cobalt blue bowl -- yellow and blue are the colours of summer and it adds a nice citrus scent,” says Bonnie. 3 Let nature take its courseFormal floral arrangements can be too heavy for summertime. Take a cue from the garden and casually arrange flowers as they would grow outdoors, writes Kristin Perers, author of A Home For All Seasons (Ryland Peters & Small, 1998). Toss some fragrant herbs, such as mint, rosemary and sage, into arrangements or plant them in a window box outside a bedroom and enjoy the aroma all night long. 4 Smell like summerPut away products with which you regularly bathe or shower and opt for ones with summer scents, like rosemary bath soap or fruity body wash. 5 Bring the outdoors in“I like to take accents from the garden -- a cachepot, a tool -- and use them out of context in the home,” says Bonnie. “They're little reminders of what's going on outdoors.” Store spatulas or wooden spoons in a terracotta pot, frame a collection of antique gardening tools to create a seasonal wall collage or move patio furniture indoors. 6 to 10 6. Cut a rugWho needs that heavy Oriental rug during summer? Lay down a more natural alternative, such as a sisal rug, or better yet, keep the floors bare. “It's a nice feeling walking barefoot on a hardwood floor,” says Bonnie. 7. Spruce up your cleaningStores like Crabtree and Evelyn sell an array of aromatic cleaning products. Try one infused with delightful seasonal scents, such rosewater linen wash and lavender carpet refresher. 8. Get craftySimple summer shirting can get the creativity going, writes Kristin. Employ the fabric in decorative details like a patchwork quilt or pillow shams. If you prefer more floral works, press petals between two framed pieces of glass for instant art or use them to border a mirror for a touch of summer all year long. 9. Dish it outSummer usually brings with it a playful mood. Mix and match dishes in fun vibrant solids or with funky patterns like stripes and botanic prints. 10. Colour your worldWhen visiting a farmers' market, pay attention to all the wonderful colours that surround you, Bonnie suggests. Then pick a room in your home, designate it the “summer room” and repaint the walls one of those luscious, incredible hues.- Credit
- Heather Camlot
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Hotel style: San Juan Marriott Resort Hotel style: San Juan Marriott Resort
Hotel style: San Juan Marriott Resort ofThe inspiration The hotelSun, sand and an onsite casino, too: what more do you need for grown-up fun in the sun? The San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino on Puerto Rico's spectacular Condado Beach has it all -- plus elegantly appointed guest rooms, as well. Many of the rooms and suites in the four-star beachfront resort boast stellar views of the Atlantic Ocean. When you're not soaking up the sun (don't forget your SPF 45!) or trying your luck at the card tables, head over to the Ocean Club Pool Spa & Fitness Center for pampering.The lookThe guest rooms put a coastal spin on traditional decor. With deep, richly stained wood furniture, crisp white bedding and fresh peachy-salmon accents, the look is welcoming and chic. Because the furniture pieces clearly come from different furniture sets, the look is refreshingly un-cookie cutter. You can snag that look for yourself by mixing and matching pieces with different styles. To avoid design discordance, coordinate them by stain instead.The inspirationYou needn't look any further than Condado Beach's expanse of soft, creamy sand and the endless blue of sea and sky, to realize that this hotel's interior design capitalizes on its location and sightlines. The historic sights of old San Juan, including 15th century villas is paid homage to in the warm, burnished tones you'll find in the rooms, too. Get the look Get the lookHere are some pieces that will help you nab the San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino's traditional-meets-luxury island look. A flat-screen TV is a sleek addition to a dresser. Who says bigger is better? This petite model is perfect in a bedroom setting. LG 20-inch LCD HDTV, $499.99, futureshop.ca. Crisp, luxurious ultra-high thread count Egyptian cotton sheets will lend a pampering hotel feel to your bedroom. White is right for summer, but add a throw blanket in a rich, spicy tone and you're ready for the colder weather. 650 Thread Count Stripe, $99.99, Canada.lnt.com. A fresh cream-and-red stripe curtain adds a get-happy vibe to your room. Give your window a finished built-in look with a valance painted to match. Alvine Smal Curtain, $49.99 per two-pack, ikea.com/ca. Casual comfort meets contemporary chic in this big 'n' cozy armchair. Salmon-hued upholstery with contrast piping is unexpected - yet a warm accent in rooms either modern or traditional. Daphne Chair, la-z-boy.com for dealers and pricing. This combination solid-wood-and-MDF headboard in Manchurian Ash finish adds a traditional element to the room. Avoid a matchy-matchy look by buying the bed only. Find nightstands and a dresser elsewhere for a more eclectic look. Oak Jasper Queen Panel Bed, $629.97, thebrick.com.- Credit
- Name of the author
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How to: Build a deck How to: Build a deck
How to: Build a deck ofYour plan, tools and materials With such a sliver of time to enjoy the outdoors, building a deck to sit outside is an attractive option for most Canadian homeowners. But like any home renovation project, the design and construction of a deck requires a skilled hand -- or at the very least a well-researched one. With the help of Jon Eakes, Canada's home improvement expert for 30 years and author of Do It Yourself (DK publishers, 2007), the following is everything you need to know to build a safe, enjoyable and durable deck for your home. Before you begin: Have a planThe last thing any homeowner wants is an accident, so make sure your deck design plan eliminates any and all safety hazards that may arise. Ask yourself the following:1 What are the rules and regulations of my municipality?Municipal rules and regulations are unique to each community, so be sure you understand what restrictions apply to you. 2 Will my deck block municipal access to hydro? If your deck or fence is blocking access to hydro, the city won't think twice about bulldozing through in an emergency!3 If a swimming pool is involved, think about neighbourhood kids Will your new deck provide free access to the pool? Could a child fall into the pool from the deck? Do you need an alarm or special latch for the entrance onto your deck? Run through every scenario and to avoid the worst from happening.4 Get the proper permitsAvoid headaches before they start with the proper permits for your deck's dimensions.Essential deck-building toolsEakes suggests collecting the following tools before you begin: • Circ (Circular) saw• Hand saw for finishing • Impact wrench -- these really drive the screws into the wood. Most hardware stores have impact wrenches for rent or sale. • Electric screwdriver• Pneumatic (air-powered) nailer -- essential for fixing up your fence or railing. • Gloves, safety goggles, dust mask. Wear a mask especially if you're working with cedar -- the natural insect repellent in cedar can cause violent reactions in some people. WoodPressure-treated wood is the strong and durable standard. Even specialty decks are built with pressure-treated wood with specialized wood varieties laid on top. Tip: Eakes cautions against using the extremely light or white-coloured woods. "It's like being on a boat all day -- the reflection of sun in your eyes can be blinding," he says. White railings may be a more attractive alternative. Waterproofing and stainsPressure-treated wood already has some waterproofing done at the factory. Eakes says you need to wait and let the wood weather before staining and waterproofing, the length of time depending on your wet or dry climate. He suggests sprinkling water onto the wood -- if the water soaks into the wood it's ready for staining and waterproofing (never waterproof then stain -- the stain won't stick.) Tip: If you're thinking of using an opaque stain, Eakes strongly advises reading the can first. "They all say 'Not for horizontal surfaces' because opaque stains are for fences and rails -- they can't stand the traffic [on a deck floor]," he says. If you want a splash of colour for on your deck, he recommends using a transparent stain. HardwareYou will need either:• Double-dipped galvanized nails - indicated for ACQ (Alkaline copper quaternary) lumber, or; • Stainless steel nails if you live in a very wet climateWhy not regular nails? On January 1, 2004, Canada halted the distribution of CCA (Chromated copper arsenate) wood for residential construction due to the toxic arsenic and replaced it with ACQ lumber which contains no arsenic but much more copper. Though less toxic, ACQ lumber literally dissolves aluminum nails, making your deck unstable and hazardous within a couple of years. Eakes says if a contractor offers to build your deck for an unbelievable price, he or she is likely not using the more expensive but necessary hardware. In wet environments where the deck never truly dries out, stainless steel is your safest bet. Read more about pressure treated lumber on Eakes' site: joneakes.comJon Eakes has been Canada's home improvement guru for 30 years. His latest book, Do It Yourself (DK publishers, 2007), outlines even more decking tips plus over 400 home improvement projects. Design techniques, stairs and railings, decking extras Design techniquesDecks can quickly become expensive, and when people creep over their budget they begin to cut corners. How can you tell if the deck of your dreams is in your budget? "Live on the deck before you build it," says Eakes. He suggests laying out the parametres of the deck you think you want with rope or a garden hose, including stairs and an entrance. Place pickets in the corners and host a barbecue. "Make a rule that anyone who steps over the rope has fallen off the deck and gets no more beer," he jokes. During the party, guests will move the ropes and stretch the deck into what's naturally comfortable. You'll be able to see traffic paths: where the kids are running and how to route them, whether the chef is in an awkward corner, or if the steps are in the wrong spot. After the barbecue, take a look at the revised space and see if it truly fits your budget. If a tiny deck is all you can afford, maybe build a few steps and create a patio instead. The foundationThe most beautiful deck is worthless atop a bad foundation. Dust off the old shovel and prepare to dig four deep holes for your posts. Generally, the postholes must be below the maximum frost depth to ensure frozen soil doesn't heave the posts upwards. Check with local codes to see exactly how deep they must be. Eakes' perfect post tip: Pour concrete in the bottom of your holes - just three to four inches deep. Let it dry. Place your 4x4 or 6x6 on top of this dried concrete. Don't lock the posts into place -- let everything just stand. Build the basic frame of your deck while your posts are still loose. "This way the tops are all nailed together and it's just the bottoms that are twisting. Small mistakes are always made in the post digging, but now the posts will line up perfectly," he explains.Secure your boards to hold the basic framework and then fill in the holes with concrete to stabilize the structure. Laying down the floorDespite best intentions, your floorboards will never line up perfectly. While most people tend to begin the floor against the house and work outwards, Eakes suggests beginning on the outside perimeter of your deck and working towards your house. "You'll always have an ugly board, but if it's tucked against the house it gets hidden," he explains.Building stepsAwkward or poorly built steps will make your deck the last place anyone wants to be. Eakes outlines a few step-building essentials:• Avoid having slopes or surfaces that slip when they're wet.• If you have more than two steps, you need a handrail.• Ensure all your steps are equal! "Humans are creatures of habit," he says. "Our feet memorize how far each step is. If the bottom or top is different, you stumble!" • If you build terraced steps, make sure they're at least one or more than two steps wide -- not 1.5 steps. "These look nice but they're so uncomfortable," he says. RailingsLike decking dimensions, each municipality has unique requirements for railings so be sure your railing complies. Generally, Eakes says railings are never allowed to have horizontal rungs in case kids want to climb, nor can the vertical rungs have spacing larger than four inches -- roughly the size of a baby's head. "The real interest with railings is the health and safety of the people involved and respecting your neighbours," he explains.Eakes' railing tip: If you're going to have a stand-up, cocktail party kind of deck, make sure you have a nice railing that's wide enough to hold a glass. If you know there will be smokers, creatively nail some ashtrays to the railing so your guests don't bring cigarettes into the house. Decking extrasIf you live in an area with high winds such as a coastal area, consider installing temperate glass walls. Eakes says they can be installed all the way around, or just as panels to allow some air to come through. These allow you to enjoy the outdoors without being blown away.Beware the temptation to roof your deck. While most municipalities prevent roofing the deck, Eakes explains this is because owner after owner may add more and more to this roofed deck until it eventually becomes an addition to the house. Built on a poor foundation not strong enough to hold a snow load on the roof year after year, this spells disaster for the last homeowner.When it's time to call in the prosBefore you start, really consider what you have the skills to do -- and not do. You may just need a hardware store professional to help with the design. If your back isn't so good, hire a professional posthole digger. Eakes says they'll enter your yard with a tractor-like gadget and in one hour your postholes are dug. "No broken back and you go on with the rest!" he says.Or, you may just want the finishing or just the structure done professionally. Anything can be accommodated, just make sure you are very specific with your contractor about what you want: where to start, where to stop and how much they need to clean up. Draw up a written contract that specifies what you want them to do so there isn't any confusion. Jon Eakes has been Canada's home improvement guru for 30 years. His latest book, Do It Yourself (DK publishers, 2007), outlines even more decking tips plus over 400 home improvement projects.- Credit
- Colleen Tully
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Project: Retro daisies Project: Retro daisies
Project: Retro daisies ofProject: Retro daisies Painting candles with floral motifs is one of the easiest ways to decorate them all over with a pretty pattern. For your next birthday party, you can create a sassy candle covered with daisies using simple brush strokes. All you do is brush on petals around a little center dot to make one bloom. Adding drops of liquid soap to the paint beforehand will help it adhere to the wax. If you prefer a more personalized candle, you can paint on the letters of someone's name, or the words of a sweet message that commemorates the special occasion in simple block letters. YOU WILL NEED:Aluminum pie tinAcrylic paint in bright yellow and whiteLiquid dishwashing soapPaintbrush5-inch-diameter round candle in light yellowCup of waterPaper towelsCandle Glass (optional)INSTRUCTIONS:1. In opposite corners of pie tin, pour a small pool of yellow and a small pool of white paint. Add one drop of saop to each pool of paint, and mix using paintbrush. 2. Dip paintbrush in yellow paint and make a small dot on the side of candle. Rinse bush in water and wipe brush clean on paper towel. 3. To make a petal, dip paintbrush in white paint. Press brush firmly against the surface and then lift it up gently as you complete the stroke; repeat action, painting remaining petals at even intervals in a radial pattern around yellow dot. 4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to paint daisies in overall pattern, or as desired. 5. If desired, apply light coat of Candle Glass, following manufacturer's instructions. Excerpted from Instant Gratification Candles: Fast and Fabulous Projects by Carol Endler Sterbenz and Genevieve A. Sterbenz. Copyright 2001 by Chronicle Books. Excerpted with permission by Chronicle Books. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher. -
Beautiful movie interiors Beautiful movie interiors
Beautiful movie interiors ofAnd the nominees are... Love Actually (2003) finds Liam Neeson and his son living in a London townhouse that features a smart, modern-yet-comfortable stainless-steel kitchen. And the coral toile sofa in the sitting room at 10 Downing Street is simply gorgeous - as is Hugh Grant sitting on it!- Gail Johnston Habs, Editor in ChiefYou can practically smell the pipe smoke and cognac in Henry Higgins's handsome Victorian library in My Fair Lady (1964).- Susan Rogers, Art DirectorThe sets of Down with Love (2003) are so hip they hurt: Ewan McGregor's bachelor pad features motorized furniture that changes from one thing to another at the flick of a button, and Renée Zellweger's chic apartment beautifully sets off her wardrobe!- Laurie Grassi, Executive EditorThe grand old estate in The Philadelphia Story (1940) is very old money; I especially love the sweeping staircase and pool house. The furnishings in Gosford Park (2001) are great, but best of all are the fabulous dinnerware, silverware and service pieces in the dining scenes.- Margot Austin, Senior Design EditorThe standout in Amélie (2001) is Amélie's bedroom: a meant-for-snuggling wrought-iron bed topped with an orange satin duvet and cushy green pillows, set against a backdrop of decadent crimson wallpaper. With a bedroom like that, who wouldn't get the guy?- Jennifer Krissilas, Copy EditorIn Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967), Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy's place is the quintessential San Francisco house with a fabulous view. It perfectly matches their characters - classy yet unpretentious.- Angela Lawrence, Senior EditorIn Jean-Luc Godard's Contempt (1964), Jack Palance has an incredible cliffside mansion on the island of Capri. An exterior wall doubles as a staircase to the roof patio. I also love the curlicued iron bed in Brigitte Bardot's Roman apartment.- Yuki Hayashi, Senior Editor8 Women (2002) is set in a lovely '50s French château, complete with a piano, sumptuous draperies, wallpaper, carpeting, accessories, a fully stocked library and grand staircase. Magnifique!- Denise Barnard, Senior Editor The final nominees are... In Beaches (1988), when Bette Midler finally makes it big, her apartment is a decor disaster. Her extensive collection of self-portraits made me laugh my head off!- Samantha Pynn, Associate Design EditorAt the beginning of Charade (1963), Audrey Hepburn comes home to find her Parisian apartment empty and her hubby gone. There isn't a stick of furniture left, but the architecture's incredible - high ceilings, mouldings, beautiful huge doors and a fireplace.- Josephine Woertman, Associate Art DirectorIn Panic Room (2002), Jodie Foster's Victorian-era Manhattan townhouse has stunning architecture: hardwood floors, French doors, crown moulding, high-ceilings, arched windows, built-in bookcases, fireplaces, and even an elevator.- Karen Williams, Assistant Art DirectorIn Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961), Holly Golightly has a sublime bachelorette pad, complete with hardwood floors, shabby-chic bathtub/sofa and tons of room to entertain!- Helen Racanelli, Feature Writer In City of Angels (1998), Meg Ryan meets Nicolas Cage at a cosy cabin hideaway with an amazing view of the mountains and a backyard lake. There's even an incredible stone fireplace - it's just so inviting.- Heidi Piel, Assistant Art DirectorPierce Brosnan's Manhattan brownstone in The Thomas Crown Affair (1999) is to die for. Its grand entrance, with a cast-iron staircase and artwork, gives it a museum-like feel. If Pierce comes with the house, I'll take it!- Diana Luciani, Editorial AssistantIn Face/Off (1997), Nicolas Cage has an amazing loft with floor-to-ceiling windows and top-of-the-line furnishings. The minute I saw it, I wanted it!- Natalie Moore, Editorial InternThere's a scene in Gone with the Wind (1939) where Scarlett walks up the stairs of the Wilkes' home, while Rhett Butler smiles at her from the bottom. My heart skips a beat, not just because of Rhett's wicked grin, but because I'm enchanted by that staircase!- Natalie Bahadur, Web Editor -
Design solutions Design solutions
Design solutions ofDecorating with crabapple blossoms Q: I'm not much of a gardener, or florist for that matter, but I do have a crabapple tree in my backyard that has lovely blossoms in the spring. How do I go about cutting a few branches to arrange indoors? Or would that hurt the tree? Bridget Sorrensen, OttawaA: At STYLE AT HOME, we're huge fans of flowering branches. Just after I got your letter, I came across this pretty photo from American furniture company Oly. Even though the room is filled with Oly's beautiful furniture, it's the branches that knock my socks off. These are cherry blossoms, but crabapple blooms are just as gorgeous. Pruning won't hurt your tree; it's part of good maintenance. How to enjoy flowering branches indoorsCutting at a 45-degree angle with pruners, choose branches that are at least four feet long. Cut in the afternoon; that's when the flowers have the most moisture. Choose a sturdy, tall vase that works for the space where you'll be displaying the branches. Clean the vase with a mild bleach-and-water solution (one part bleach to 10 parts water). Fill halfway with room-temperature water; stir in a packet of flower preservative. Hold up each branch next to the vase to decide how tall you'd like it to be; cut away secondary branches or shoots that would be below the rim. Recut the bottom of the main branch at a 45-degree angle. To encourage water flow, make a vertical cut up the stem or smash the base of the stem with a hammer. Place the branch in the vase. Repeat with all branches until you have a magnificent arrangement. Use the offcuts to make smaller displays. Change the water often, recutting stems each time. Place in a bright room away from direct sunlight; arrangements should last for about seven days. TIP Use the above techniques to create dramatic indoor displays every season: lush leafy branches in summer, crimson-leaved maple tree cuttings in autumn, and white pine or red dogwood branches in winter. Q: Last May's issue showed some beautiful faux shrubs for the deck. I'm wondering what they're made of and where I can purchase them? Is it OK for these types of shrubs to be left out in the rain? As well, how does one take care of them? Barb Bush, Prince George, B.C.A: Aren't these great? I'm nuts for topiaries, but I'm way too delinquent to keep up with trimming. Also, real evergreens planted in urns can die of thirst fast. These faux – a.k.a. everlasting or permanent – ones are usually made of plastic. The most common types replicate boxwood or cedar, and forms include balls, spirals, pyramids and even animals. They'll endure inclement weather well, but despite their name, they won't last forever. High winds, torrential rains, and freezing and thawing take their toll over time. Ask your local garden centre or florist about them. If they don't have any in stock, they should be able to order some.Image courtesy of Oly Painting exteriors Q: We recently purchased this 17-year-old home. It has a relatively new multicolour roof. I'm looking for suggestions about how to improve the façade because I'm having problems with the contrasting bold colour combinations. I'm also thinking about removing the shutters. What do you think? Lisa Irwin, London, Ont. A: I vote for keeping the shutters: they perfectly suit the Georgian architectural style of your home and draw attention to its symmetrical design. However, I'm with you on the colour; the burgundy has to go. Bring this home into the 21st century with a more subdued scheme. Paint the shutters a shade of grey that matches one of the tones in the brick, like Benjamin Moore's Escarpment CC-518, and the eaves, window trim and columns a creamy white like White Down CC-50 to define the windows and frame the entryway. For your door, I love the idea of a deep grey like Kendall Charcoal HC-166. Through digital wizardry, we applied the colours to your photo, but hold up samples against the brick to be sure they work in real life. If not, try others until you find the right combo.Q: I'm hunting for house numbers, but all the ones I've found look the same – made of metal in traditional shapes. Do you know where I could get some interesting modern ones? Steve Hanson, CalgaryA: I have two ideas for you. First, the Bingo numbers shown at right, from Italian manufacturer Serralunga, are contemporary and dramatic. They're huge – almost 18 inches tall – and come in great colours. If this style doesn't work for you, contact a commercial sign making company to have numbers custom-made to your specs. Most will be able to offer you design ideas and a choice of materials.- Credit
- Margot Austin
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Project: Picnic basket Project: Picnic basket
Project: Picnic basket ofProject: Picnic basket MaterialsHamper-style basket with lid, approx. 22 x 13 x 12 in.Tape measure5 ft. red ginghamScissorsSewing machineNeedle and thread11 1/2 ft of 1-in. velcroGlue gun and glue sticksCardboardScraps of floral fabric4 buttons Instructions1. Measure the inside of the basket, add 1 1/2 in. all around, and cut out a piece of gingham to this size. Cut out the corners, adding a 3/4-in. seam allowance to each side of the flap of material left on the short end of the fabric. This will create neat corners, so that the lining fits snugly inside the basket. 2. Sew the corners together, stopping 1 1/2 in. before you reach the top on all corners. Press open the seams. 3. Fold the raw edges of the lining over to the wrong side by 3/4 in. and again by another 1/4 in. and press. Pin and stitch a strip of Velcro along each edge. Glue the corresponding Velcro strips inside the basket and allow to dry. The Velcro holds the lining firmly in place inside the basket. 4. For each divider, cut a piece of cardboard the width of the basket. Cut two gingham pieces 1 1/2 in. wider and 3 in. longer than the cardboard. Right sides together, taking a 3/4-in seam, sew along three sides. Turn right side out and press. Stitch Velcro along the closed end of the pocket and stitch underneath it. Insert the card and stitch below it. Fold in the raw ends by 3/4 in. and stitch Velcro to the back. Sew the corresponding Velcro pieces to the lining.5. Cut a piece of cardboard to fit inside the lid of the basket and two rectangles of gingham 1 1/2 in. wider and 3 in. longer than the cardboard. Cut rectangles of floral fabric and hem along one edge. Turn under the raw edges and stitch onto one of the gingham rectangles, leaving the hemmed end open. Cover the cardboard as for the dividers. 6. Sew Velcro to each end fo the panel front. Glue corresponding strips inside the lid. Cut a 4-in. strip of gingham the width of the panel plus 1 1/2 in. Fold in half widthwise, right sides together, and stitch around three sides, taking a 3/4-in. seam. Turn right side out; press. Turn under the raw edges and hand stitch to close. Sew buttons onto the strip and glue onto the lid panel. Velcro the panel to the lid. Excerpted from Decorating Baskets by Emma Hardy. Copyright 2003 by Cico Books. Excerpted with permission by Laurel Glen Publishing. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.- Credit
- Emma Hardy
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