Here in Vancouver we were blessed with the most beautiful extended summer. All of the sunshine and warmth makes it easy to embrace the fact that cooler weather is here and Fall has officially arrived.
When temperatures drop cozy layers are a wardrobe necessity. Why not bring that same comfort and warmth into your home? One way to achieve this is to layer area rugs. I love the look of starting with a simple sisal or jute rug; it provides the perfect neutral and affordable backdrop for any colour or style. Add in a faux-fur blanket, candles and a few darker throw pillows and you're ready for the season ahead!
Pumpkin spice latte anyone?;)
Friday, October 12
Thursday, October 4
IDSwest 2012 & BLEND
This past weekend was the annual Interior Design Show at the Vancouver Convention Centre. I was thrilled to get to attend the opening night of IDSwest 2012 and take in the sites.
A lot of buzz that night centred around the beautiful kitchen display by Kelly Deck and her fabulous team in collaboration with AyA Kitchens. With it's perfect mix of gold, marble, wood and stone it would be an understatement to say it was dream kitchen.
Saturday at the Convention Centre Tommy Smythe took the stage with his infectious passion for design and showed us how to bring any size space to it's full potential. With his wit and charm he had the audience captivated and of course very entertained.
That evening I attended BLEND, the blogger event sponsored by IKEA Canada, with some of the most talented designers/bloggers in Canada. We were joined by Suzanne Dimma and Mark Challen (of House & Home) and Tommy Smythe; needless to say I was a little "starstruck". The night was filled with plenty of delicious food, amazing company and wonderful door prizes.
Thank you to the fabulous women Victoria, Barbara, Karla, Nancy and Danielle who were all a part in organizing these events for us. I feel blessed to be apart of such an encouraging, inspiring and creative community. Looking forward to next year!
A lot of buzz that night centred around the beautiful kitchen display by Kelly Deck and her fabulous team in collaboration with AyA Kitchens. With it's perfect mix of gold, marble, wood and stone it would be an understatement to say it was dream kitchen.
Saturday at the Convention Centre Tommy Smythe took the stage with his infectious passion for design and showed us how to bring any size space to it's full potential. With his wit and charm he had the audience captivated and of course very entertained.
That evening I attended BLEND, the blogger event sponsored by IKEA Canada, with some of the most talented designers/bloggers in Canada. We were joined by Suzanne Dimma and Mark Challen (of House & Home) and Tommy Smythe; needless to say I was a little "starstruck". The night was filled with plenty of delicious food, amazing company and wonderful door prizes.
Thank you to the fabulous women Victoria, Barbara, Karla, Nancy and Danielle who were all a part in organizing these events for us. I feel blessed to be apart of such an encouraging, inspiring and creative community. Looking forward to next year!
Friday, August 31
Ombre for the Walls
The ombre trend has been present in the fashion world for quite some time now. From clothing to hair it has been a popular choice for many. Now making its way into home decor, walls are the perfect canvas for this colour graduation. The shaded effect gives an "old world" look while still having the perfect touch of modern flair.
On a search for wallpaper, I came across this beautiful collection by Designers Guild - stunning! It makes a bold statement and it is available in five gorgeous colourways.
If you don't feel ready to dive into the world of wallpaper you can also get the look with paint. The colour selections are as endless as your paint fan deck.
Check out P.S. - I made this where Erica gives instructions on how to give your walls an ombre paint treatment - sounds like the perfect weekend project!
Tuesday, July 3
Nursery Time
It's been quite a while since we've had a baby girl's nursery set up in our home; four years to be exact. Needless to say, I was excited to have the opportunity to decorate one again. I should clarify, this one is not for us!
When decorating a nursery I think it is important to keep cost reasonable and choose elements that can grow with the child. Always be on the lookout for a great sale, don't be afraid of big-box stores and check websites like Etsy for beautiful, budget-friendly finds. To keep it interesting mix furniture styles, patterns and textures; the outcome is custom and pleasing to the eye.
Babyletto Hudson Convertible Crib - Layla Grace
White Brocade Mirror - Homesense / Homegoods
Teardrop Chandelier - PB Teen
Leaf Medallion Lurex Rug - PB Teen
Ektorp Jennylund Armchair - IKEA
Chevron Decorative Pillow - Etsy
Moroccan Pouf - moraccanmart.com
ForLikeEver Poster - Super Rural
Ikat: Pink Painting - Etsy
When decorating a nursery I think it is important to keep cost reasonable and choose elements that can grow with the child. Always be on the lookout for a great sale, don't be afraid of big-box stores and check websites like Etsy for beautiful, budget-friendly finds. To keep it interesting mix furniture styles, patterns and textures; the outcome is custom and pleasing to the eye.
Babyletto Hudson Convertible Crib - Layla Grace
White Brocade Mirror - Homesense / Homegoods
Teardrop Chandelier - PB Teen
Leaf Medallion Lurex Rug - PB Teen
Ektorp Jennylund Armchair - IKEA
Chevron Decorative Pillow - Etsy
Moroccan Pouf - moraccanmart.com
ForLikeEver Poster - Super Rural
Ikat: Pink Painting - Etsy
Monday, May 14
Let the Sunshine In
Anyone who knows me knows I love the sun. There's not much that tops a beautiful, hot, sunny day at the beach! We were able to spend some time in Hawaii recently and needless to say it was heavenly - beaches and sunshine every day. It's been a bit of an adjustment coming back. Of course, I would love to spend my days soaking up the rays but reality is a little different.
My solution - why not bring the beach home! Here are a few accessories that will make you feel a little closer to the sun.
1. Sunshine Art Print Poster - Etsy
2. Zig Zag Frame Aquamarine - Z Gallerie
3. Pebble Side Table - West Elm
4. Tarnby Rug, Flatwoven - IKEA
5. Oasis Pillow - Anthropologie
6. Round Woven Pillow - Target
7. Square Capiz Shell Chandelier - Target
8. Whale Beach Decor Wooden Plaques - by the sea...
My solution - why not bring the beach home! Here are a few accessories that will make you feel a little closer to the sun.
1. Sunshine Art Print Poster - Etsy
2. Zig Zag Frame Aquamarine - Z Gallerie
3. Pebble Side Table - West Elm
4. Tarnby Rug, Flatwoven - IKEA
5. Oasis Pillow - Anthropologie
6. Round Woven Pillow - Target
7. Square Capiz Shell Chandelier - Target
8. Whale Beach Decor Wooden Plaques - by the sea...
Tuesday, April 3
Beds & Headboards
Finding the right bed/headboard can be the perfect jumping off point in designing a bedroom. With so many options (fabric, wood, metal, woven, patterned, tufted - the list goes on) the decision is a big one to make. In my recent search for a client these are a few that caught my attention:
If a fabric headboard is what you are looking for, there are online shops that make the search simple. At Serena & Lily and Ballard Designs you can choose from fantastic frames and fabrics to get just the look you have in mind. Here is an example of a combination from Ballard Designs.
1. Grace Headboard - Z Gallerie
2. Charlie Headboad - Z Gallerie
3. Oly Studio Diego Bed Gold - Layla Grayce
4. Filmore Bed with Nailheads - Serena & Lily
5. Savana Bed - Hudson Madison
6. Isabella - The Cross Decor & Design
7. Atwood - Crate & Barrel
If a fabric headboard is what you are looking for, there are online shops that make the search simple. At Serena & Lily and Ballard Designs you can choose from fantastic frames and fabrics to get just the look you have in mind. Here is an example of a combination from Ballard Designs.
1. Grace Headboard - Z Gallerie
2. Charlie Headboad - Z Gallerie
3. Oly Studio Diego Bed Gold - Layla Grayce
4. Filmore Bed with Nailheads - Serena & Lily
5. Savana Bed - Hudson Madison
6. Isabella - The Cross Decor & Design
7. Atwood - Crate & Barrel
Monday, March 12
Branching Out
With the low temperatures and endless rain Vancouver has received these last few weeks I find myself dreaming of Spring! Although I'm thankful to live in a city where we are able to enjoy four seasons I have to say I'm partial to warmer days, lighter jackets and open windows. For me, nothing says Spring is here like the sight of a beautiful tree in blossom (my dream is to live on a street lined with huge cherry trees). When thinking of Spring decor for the home, flowering branches are a perfect way to bring in a little "new life".
Whether your home is modern or traditional, shabby or sleek a vase filled with flowering branches in yellow, white or pink is a perfect, inexpensive way to make a big impact.
Although I prefer real flowers, I will make an exception in this case. You can find gorgeous, true to life branches at Micheals or your local HomeSense or HomeGoods store so you can enjoy the beauty of Spring even if the weather isn't co-operating!
Whether your home is modern or traditional, shabby or sleek a vase filled with flowering branches in yellow, white or pink is a perfect, inexpensive way to make a big impact.
Although I prefer real flowers, I will make an exception in this case. You can find gorgeous, true to life branches at Micheals or your local HomeSense or HomeGoods store so you can enjoy the beauty of Spring even if the weather isn't co-operating!
Monday, February 27
Glitter Guide - Highlights from Style at Home with The Doctors Closet
When Monika of The Doctor's Closet asked me to help get her home "Glitter Guide" ready I was thrilled. Having consulted with her throughout her decorating process I can say there's nothing quite like working with a client who has great style, it makes the job so easy!
I like to begin by removing all clutter. Once you have a clean slate then you can decide what you want to put back into the space, what needs to find a new home and what should be added.
In the bedroom we chose gorgeous pillows and a beautiful Cameroon Juju Hat from The Cross Design. I absolutely love the pattern the pillows bring and texture the feathers add to the room. The large custom Confetti painting is a fun addition and pulls together the palette of gold, silver, white and cream.
The simplest way to add pattern to a bathroom is to display printed towels. These were purchased at HomeSense. I love the whimsical his/hers hooks and the LOVE prints by Jen Ramos are perfect for the space!
I've had many people ask where pillows should be placed on a sectional couch. Having them in the corner can be enough but I also like the look of pillows on either side - it gives lots of opportunity to add texture, warmth, possible color and pattern making any couch inviting! Here we used a monochromatic approach but added interest with different fabrics and textures. A moroccan leather pouf always looks fabulous and can be used as an extra seat or ottoman in a small space. The bar table, also from Homesense, was a fun addition; when you have beautiful glasses and accessories you need to show them off!
Shelving can be daunting to decorate in a home office. In Monika's office we cleared all unneeded papers into IKEA boxes and made her shelves a place to display books, artwork and beautiful ceramics. Artwork can be a print, original painting or even a framed card or calendar page. One of the best functional and decorative items you can add to your home office is a chalkboard decal. This one is from Urbanwalls where you can find different sizes and shapes so you're sure to find one to fit your space perfectly.
Click here to read the feature on Glitter Guide!
Photo credit: Ellen Ho of Hong Photography
I like to begin by removing all clutter. Once you have a clean slate then you can decide what you want to put back into the space, what needs to find a new home and what should be added.
In the bedroom we chose gorgeous pillows and a beautiful Cameroon Juju Hat from The Cross Design. I absolutely love the pattern the pillows bring and texture the feathers add to the room. The large custom Confetti painting is a fun addition and pulls together the palette of gold, silver, white and cream.
The simplest way to add pattern to a bathroom is to display printed towels. These were purchased at HomeSense. I love the whimsical his/hers hooks and the LOVE prints by Jen Ramos are perfect for the space!
I've had many people ask where pillows should be placed on a sectional couch. Having them in the corner can be enough but I also like the look of pillows on either side - it gives lots of opportunity to add texture, warmth, possible color and pattern making any couch inviting! Here we used a monochromatic approach but added interest with different fabrics and textures. A moroccan leather pouf always looks fabulous and can be used as an extra seat or ottoman in a small space. The bar table, also from Homesense, was a fun addition; when you have beautiful glasses and accessories you need to show them off!
Shelving can be daunting to decorate in a home office. In Monika's office we cleared all unneeded papers into IKEA boxes and made her shelves a place to display books, artwork and beautiful ceramics. Artwork can be a print, original painting or even a framed card or calendar page. One of the best functional and decorative items you can add to your home office is a chalkboard decal. This one is from Urbanwalls where you can find different sizes and shapes so you're sure to find one to fit your space perfectly.
Click here to read the feature on Glitter Guide!
Photo credit: Ellen Ho of Hong Photography
Thursday, February 16
Mustaches & Bowties
It's hard for me to believe but we just celebrated our baby's 1st birthday. After hosting many girly parties (princess, fairy, princess, flowers, princess, butterflies...you get the picture) I was excited to venture out into a boys world. For his very first party I couldn't think of a more perfect theme than this one for our "little man". Here are a few details.
Bowtie Napkins - luncheon napkins and napkin rings made from cardstock, adapted from Martha Stewart
Polka Dot Straws with paper mustaches
Tie Garland - template from Shindig Parties To Go
Mustache Cupcakes - chocolate molds from Scoop-n-Save
The birthday boy and his big sisters
Friday, February 3
Etsy - Pillow Talk
I love Etsy! Etsy is a place you can go to find original home décor, art and anything else your creative heart desires. Recently, I was searching for pillows and came across some with words and phrases on them. I love that these pillows can make a statement and add quirky character to any room. As an added bonus, I’ve found that sellers will often let you customize your pillows. What would you say?!
1. XOXO - alexandra ferguson
2. I Love Cake - Raine Style Home
3. Beauty Full - DeLysh Design
4. HOME - knot for sale
5. Happily Ever After - tillyanna designs
6. No Whining - alexandra ferguson
7. Smile - Honey Pie Design
You can find my Etsy store by clicking here!
1. XOXO - alexandra ferguson
2. I Love Cake - Raine Style Home
3. Beauty Full - DeLysh Design
4. HOME - knot for sale
5. Happily Ever After - tillyanna designs
6. No Whining - alexandra ferguson
7. Smile - Honey Pie Design
You can find my Etsy store by clicking here!
Thursday, January 26
Valentines - For the Kids
Valentine's Day is just around the corner. I love that in the middle of a sometimes dreary month, we set aside a day to celebrate those who are special to us. Of course, chocolate is a highlight as well!
Since my girls started school, I've enjoyed looking for fun new ideas for Valentines. In my search this year I came across these adorable cards by sarah + abraham.
Depending on the size of your child's class I admit it could get a little pricey, but I just love these custom cards!
There are many other amazing products on this site including personalized placemats, water bottles and great stationary.
What child wouldn't love to be made into their very own cartoon character!
There are also endless DIY Valentine's crafts you can do with your little ones; here are some we've done in the past. It's a great way to spend an afternoon and the kids are always excited to give out their hand-made goodies.
Since my girls started school, I've enjoyed looking for fun new ideas for Valentines. In my search this year I came across these adorable cards by sarah + abraham.
Depending on the size of your child's class I admit it could get a little pricey, but I just love these custom cards!
There are many other amazing products on this site including personalized placemats, water bottles and great stationary.
What child wouldn't love to be made into their very own cartoon character!
There are also endless DIY Valentine's crafts you can do with your little ones; here are some we've done in the past. It's a great way to spend an afternoon and the kids are always excited to give out their hand-made goodies.
Thursday, January 19
Basement - Come On Down
It’s no secret that the basement isn’t always everyone’s favorite place to be. For many reasons, it can be the most avoided space in a home and the last to get a little décor TLC.
Usually natural lighting is limited so I like the idea of keeping the palette light and airy. With a removable, machine washable cover, a white sofa can actually be practical, even with little ones running around. A cowhide rug looks great on (most often) basic berber carpet and a coffee table with storage is the perfect solution for games and dvds.
We decided to make our basement a place where we would want to hang out as a family. I found that with a comfortable couch, a lot of texture (pillows & throws) and the right lighting it became, dare I say, inviting!
Koldby Cowhide Rug: IKEA
Ektorp Sofa: IKEA
Rustic Storage Coffee Table: West Elm
Tripod Wood Floor Lamp: West Elm
Vinyl Wall Sticker Decal: Urbanwalls
Mongolian Lamb Pillow Cover: West Elm
Seagulls Silk Pillow Cover: West Elm
Yellow & Natural Gray Linen Pillow: Etsy
Chunky Tassel Throw (Silver Grey): West Elm
Branch Bowl: Z Gallerie
Usually natural lighting is limited so I like the idea of keeping the palette light and airy. With a removable, machine washable cover, a white sofa can actually be practical, even with little ones running around. A cowhide rug looks great on (most often) basic berber carpet and a coffee table with storage is the perfect solution for games and dvds.
We decided to make our basement a place where we would want to hang out as a family. I found that with a comfortable couch, a lot of texture (pillows & throws) and the right lighting it became, dare I say, inviting!
Koldby Cowhide Rug: IKEA
Ektorp Sofa: IKEA
Rustic Storage Coffee Table: West Elm
Tripod Wood Floor Lamp: West Elm
Vinyl Wall Sticker Decal: Urbanwalls
Mongolian Lamb Pillow Cover: West Elm
Seagulls Silk Pillow Cover: West Elm
Yellow & Natural Gray Linen Pillow: Etsy
Chunky Tassel Throw (Silver Grey): West Elm
Branch Bowl: Z Gallerie
Friday, January 13
Wallpaper: Grey Loves
I love wallpaper, I have it in my home already and I'm thinking of adding more (powder room?). I’m a huge fan of pattern and mixing things up and amazed at what it can do in a space; it's instant art. It can be intimidating to commit to wallpaper, my suggestion: neutrals. I vote grey since it is the new beige. It can be modern or classic and add an element of design in a subtle way.
Here are some of my favorites:
1. Sanderson: Leora
2. Cole & Son: Rajapur
3. Brian Yates: Belle Birds
4. Nina Campbell: Canto Stripe
5. Cole and Son: Diamond Stripe
6. Designers Guild: Watelet
Here are some of my favorites:
1. Sanderson: Leora
2. Cole & Son: Rajapur
3. Brian Yates: Belle Birds
4. Nina Campbell: Canto Stripe
5. Cole and Son: Diamond Stripe
6. Designers Guild: Watelet
Monday, January 9
Combining Rooms - Girls
Last year was a year of change, one being the addition of our baby boy. Our girls, who used to have their own bedrooms, now (much to my oldest daughter's dismay) share a room (possible design dilemma). There are so many ways to create a fun shared space for girls. Here are some ideas:
Lonnymag.com
Pink and orange: This is such a great combination and you'll never forget whose side is whose with an extra-large photo!
Pinterest
Positioning beds end to end can create a lot of extra space in a room.
IKEA
A fun way to express budding personal style, individual wallpaper.
Pottery Barn Kids
Alternative furniture placement adds interest. The use of wrought iron creates visual space.
The girls' room turned out better than I imagined. I think it's safe to say they even enjoy sharing their space! I will be doing a home tour post in the near future so stay tuned for the result!
Lonnymag.com
Pink and orange: This is such a great combination and you'll never forget whose side is whose with an extra-large photo!
Positioning beds end to end can create a lot of extra space in a room.
IKEA
A fun way to express budding personal style, individual wallpaper.
Pottery Barn Kids
Alternative furniture placement adds interest. The use of wrought iron creates visual space.
The girls' room turned out better than I imagined. I think it's safe to say they even enjoy sharing their space! I will be doing a home tour post in the near future so stay tuned for the result!
Sunday, January 1
Welcome!
I’m so excited to be venturing into the world of blogging! I’ve been an avid follower of blogs for many years and I’ve decided it’s time to join in on the fun.
I look forward to sharing about the many things I’m passionate about; there’s a long list. Thank you for stopping by!
My family - life with 3 kids!
I look forward to sharing about the many things I’m passionate about; there’s a long list. Thank you for stopping by!
My family - life with 3 kids!
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