Blog

Indoor-Outdoor Merge

A top trend to look out for involves seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor living spaces. This includes opening up the home to the garden or patio through folding glass doors and adding enclosed verandas and partially covered gardens. It also means choosing ultra-comfortable and luxe materials for outdoor furniture that feel more like indoor pieces. Popular materials include marble, granite, and metals like brass and copper. Some homeowners may also choose to place indoor furniture like plush sofas out in the garden.

Greek-Inspired Touches

People are dreaming of vacations in the Mediterranean with this backyard theme. Greek-inspired gardens offer a sense of romance and history. To make Greek dreams come true, opt for Grecian statues, columns, formal hedges, archways, gravel gardens, and stone pathways. Place your existing garden containers and urns on a Greek-inspired platform, like this 15-inch plinth from Home Depot. While blue and white are the most traditional colour choices, adding a pop of accent colour in a mostly white garden works well, too. Plant olive trees, succulents, boxwood, and white roses, and use plants to shade seating areas.

Natural Stone Pathways

With both sustainability and serenity in mind, more people will choose natural stone to create walkways in their yard. This low-maintenance trick helps create a cottage-style feel and breaks up a solid lawn with added interest. Choose brushed or textured stones made of granite, porcelain, sandstone, or limestone. Broken stones are also trending, so you can make stone look natural by choosing items such as asymmetrical boulders and slabs.

Plants for Privacy

Sure, fences and decorative screens can help create a secluded sanctuary, but expect to see more people choosing plants for privacy instead. Vertical planting can achieve privacy screening in small spaces by using rolling shelves, pergolas, trellises, hanging baskets, planter boxes, fence shelving, mounted containers, and pouches. For a natural looking partition, add a living wall, like this pocket hanging vertical garden wall planter, available on Amazon.

Climate-Resilient Gardens

More people are now living in drought-stricken locations and facing water restrictions and other climate-related concerns. Therefore, they are turning to climate-resilient gardens to minimize water use. This could look like planting the right types of trees for a specific location. Be sure to work with a local arborist to identify the best species to ensure they suffer less stress from heat and drought conditions. It is also important to pick the best plants for a drought-tolerant garden.

Terra Cotta

The new Garden Trends Report from Garden Media Group declared terra cotta as the “colour of the year” for 2023. Terra cotta means “baked earth,” and is a reddish-brown unglazed clay that is used to create pots and planters. Both the terra-cotta material and colour are expected to play a big role in backyard design come the new year, adding a bit of a Moroccan or Mediterranean flare.

The warm and vibrant tone will help balance out all the grays and neutrals that have dominated outdoor furniture and interior home decor for some time. This trend toward natural warmth in colour also might influence plant and flower choices, such as pansies and dahlias in a range of coppery hues, and plants like Sombrero Adobe Orange coneflower, Tecoma ‘Red Hot’, and Veranda Mango Rose. Of course, be sure to stock up on terra-cotta planters, like these patterned pots available on Amazon.

Lit Garden Sculptures

Wow guests with lit-up sculptures such as these cracked glass spheres available on Amazon, which appear as artwork in the backyard. These unique elements provide a focal point and transform the entire yard into an intriguing space. Use fixtures you have on hand to thoughtfully light up sculptures, statues, and sundials to create a conversation starter and enhance the mood of any outdoor environment.

Upscale Relaxation

Since the pandemic, people often want to feel like they’re on vacation when relaxing in their own backyard. Experts find that the main reason homeowners are upgrading their backyards is to create a calming, hotel-like space. This trend is all about upscale relaxation, which involves high-quality furniture, outdoor rugs, pizza ovens, water features, elaborate firepits, covered outdoor kitchens, and more. It also entails creating a tropical vacation vibe with plants like Royal Hawaiian ‘Waikiki’ Colocasia, a ficus tree, or a potted Bird of Paradise.

Accessibility

The Garden Trends Report also highlights accessibility as top of mind to help those with mobility issues and aging baby boomers stay active in the garden. This looks like sturdy furniture that is easy to get in and out of and raised beds that don’t require bending over to tend. Also create firm pathways that are wide and roomy so that people in wheelchairs or those who need support walking can easily pass by.

Sustainable Furniture

Consumers continue to prioritize planet Earth in their purchases, and this is expected to continue in the new year. The sustainable outdoor furniture industry is booming, with so many more choices like pieces made from bamboo, recycled plastic, rattan, and other eco-friendly materials.

For the full article please click HERE or for more ideas check out this article HERE

Source: 10 Outdoor Living Trends Expected to Be Big in 2023 (bobvila.com), By Sandi Schwartz | Nov 20, 2022; The Top 5 Outdoor Design Trends of 2023, According to the Experts (realsimple.com), By Amanda Lauren | March 27, 2023

Vinyl Planks

Vinyl flooring is a much more affordable option than both hardwood and carpeting. The synthetic option is water-resistant and durable, making it ideal for anywhere from the kitchen to the bathroom. In Alison Victoria’s Atlanta loft, she covered the original red-orange stained concrete floors with vinyl plank flooring that resembles hardwood to give the home a clean and fresh feel.

Peel-and-Stick Vinyl Tiles

Peel-and-stick technology has made transforming walls, floors, and even furniture affordable. With peel-and-stick vinyl tiles, like these mid-century modern ones from WallPops, you can easily give your bathroom, laundry room, or kitchen floors a major refresh.

Laminate Planks

Composed of multiple layers (including a wood core), laminate is both tough and easy to clean, making it ideal for homes with pets and children. The faux wood option can look like the real thing, just take it from this bedroom designed by Raji RM & Associates.

Linoleum Tiles

Linoleum flooring is making a comeback. Made from natural materials, linoleum is one of the more eco-friendly options out there. In this kitchen by Tom Scheerer, the designer chose lobster red and cream linoleum tiles from Aronson’s that don’t feel too new against the other antiques in the space.

Concrete

Concrete floors are ideal for creating a smooth, industrial feel. The long-lasting option makes a great alternative to tile or hardwood. In this dining room designed by Catherine Kwong, the concrete floors contribute to the sleek look of the open floor plan.

Epoxy

For something a bit more decorative than just concrete, consider covering your floor with vinyl flakes and an epoxy coating. This wear- and scratch-resistant flake floor by Garage Kings—in House Beautiful‘s 2021 Whole Home–is easy to clean (and hides dirt!), so it will always look brand-new.

Brick

It might not be plush to the touch, but this rustic material is sturdy, eye-catching, and inexpensive. Top it with a glossy finish (or a good rug) for a softer look. The herringbone pattern in this kitchen designed by Dominique DeLaney adds extra charm.

Cork

A renewable material, cork offers warmth, cushioning, and added noise reduction. It even boasts natural climate control, meaning it can help keep a room warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Plus, you can create a fun design with the material as designer Steven Gambrel did in this kitchen.

Bamboo

Like cork, bamboo is a renewable resource, so it can be used as an eco-friendly flooring option. Although it’s actually a grass, bamboo functions like hardwood. It’s susceptible to scratches, but it can be refinished.

Painted Floor

For an easy DIY flooring update, consider painting your existing floor a fun pattern. In this Nantucket cottage by Kevin Isbell, the designer had the floors painted in a checkered pattern featuring various blue shades.

Carpet Tiles

“Carpet tiles are very easy to deal with, they’re beautiful and long-lasting,” general contractor Mark Clements of My FixItUp Life says. “Some are solid, some have really cool patterns in them, and you can create any designer pattern you want. They’re easy to cut, to carry, to transport. If one gets stained, you just peel it up and stick down another one.” The concept looks especially fun in this home gym designed by Kelly Finley of Joy Street Design.

Limestone

If you love the look of stone but don’t want to opt for a premium slab like marble, consider limestone as a cheaper alternative. The best part of this option? Stone always stays cool and is guaranteed to be long-lasting, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like this kitchen designed by Lindsay Chambers.

Source: 12 Cheap Flooring Ideas for Your Home – Affordable Flooring (housebeautiful.com), BY KELLY ALLEN | PUBLISHED: AUG 11, 2022

1. Use Pavers To Create A Geometric Pattern

Paving can be used to give a compact courtyard a contemporary edge. Simply combine a two-tone color palette (black and white has timeless appeal) with a bold geometric pattern. The finished look will feel on-trend as well as playful. Pair with sleek wraparound benches and raised beds to create a sunken seating area that feels cozy. By keeping textiles and other materials subdued, the space won’t feel overwhelmed by the flooring. Plenty of foliage plants – even a living wall on one or more sides – will soften the hard lines and give it a botanical boost, turning the area into your own urban oasis. An overhead shelter can make a fabulous finishing touch as it will keep you protected from the midday rays as well as upping the sense of privacy.

2. Link Levels With Sleek Pavers

This backyard design in San Francisco marries together a soft tapestry of planting with strips of sleek limestone pavers. Ground-cover planting breaks the hardscaping up, helping it to sit comfortably within its verdant surroundings. The staircase uses limestone pavers, too, tying the levels together. Its slightly staggered layout lends a touch of informal playfulness. ‘Boulders are split and carved to create sculptural stone benches that nestle into the planting and frame a secluded seating area at the lower terrace,’ explains Michal Kapitulnik, Principal of Surfacedesign. They are the perfect way to emphasize the naturalistic tone of the space.

3. Use Pared-Back Paving To Show Off Your Planting

Pavers are ideal for creating a pared-back look that allows planting to do the talking. In this scheme by GardenArt Group, the slabs are positioned to create a pathway and seating space beneath a pergola, and they contrast pleasingly with large beds filled with ornamental grasses. Meanwhile, the Japanese maple brings impressive color to the scene with its bright red tones. Round planters and a stepping-stone detail finish the look with their sculptural impact.

4. Create A Functional Base For A Family Yard

Creating subtle levels connected by shallow steps is a good way to break up a larger plot and make the most of the space – particularly if it’s gently sloped. Installing the same type of backyard paving throughout the design will give the whole yard a sense of flow as you go from zone to zone. By using a range of slightly different-sized slabs in a few soft, complementary tones, the overall look will feel informal, friendly, and warm. Half walls will create more distinctive divides between areas, and matching the brickwork with the rises on the steps will create an instant feeling of harmony. 

5. Add A Design Element Underfoot In A Contemporary Courtyard

A great way to get creative with backyard pavers is to experiment with patterns. It may not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning your paving ideas, but it can play a key role in the overall look. There are some classic options, including a stretcher bond design, which creates a clean and uniform aesthetic. Basket weave is ideal for more informal, romantic plots and works well with clay bricks, while herringbone is a durable design that looks great on contemporary and traditional plots alike.

This modern backyard by Living Gardens uses the latter – and coupled with the small gray pavers and bright white grouting, it makes a real statement. It’s an effective way to draw the eye without drowning out the surroundings. I particularly love how the succulents have been used to blur the line between the slabs and the central coffee table and bring in a pop of fresh green.

6. Combine Pavers With Woodland Planting

If you thought pavers didn’t suit more organic landscaping, this design may encourage you to think otherwise. The wild and overgrown nature is all part of its charm. ‘Reclaimed granite pavers are seeded with local wildflowers to create a lush and seasonally vibrant garden that feels like it is emerging from the patio itself,’ explains Michal Kapitulnik of Surfacedesign, the company who designed this space. Surrounding trees create a cooling canopy for shade, adding to the woodland garden feel.

7. Elevate A Series Of Steps

‘A terrace or paved space and their configurations often depend on site conditions and convenience,’ says Justin Quinn. ‘We analyze attributes like topography, vegetation, noise, views, and architecture to find just the right spot. We frequently add elements like water features or plantings to create a sensory experience and reinforce a strong perception of space.’ Commenting on the contemporary design shown above, Justin says, ‘A combination of stone, grasses and ginkgo trees traverse the grade connecting the lower pool garden to the main house. The inviting solution breaks up an otherwise boring staircase and takes advantage of the site’s topography.’ It’s a wonderful way to turn garden steps into a feature in themselves.

8. Go For An Urban Look With Cool Concrete And Gray Tones

This design oozes a contemporary-cool vibe with its urban materials in a gray color palette. The flickering flames of the fire pit and the bold red tones of the furnishings add warmth. ‘My favorite material is poured concrete pads with space between for gravel and permeability,’ says Morgan Feilmeier, a landscape designer at Argia Designs, who often works with contemporary schemes. ‘I find the clean, linear elements tend to complement the natural movement of the plants and help to center the overall feel of the space.’

For more ideas and the full article please click HERE

Source: Paved backyard ideas: 10 inspiring looks | (homesandgardens.com), BY HOLLY CROSSLEY | 31 JANUARY 2023

PANELLED WALLS

Adding architectural features into a room, especially for newer build properties, brings depth and interest helping to elevate the space. Create a bedroom reminiscent of a those in a boutique hotel, as shown here in this recent neutral bedroom by interior design studio Kitesgrove. Simple slatted beams or flat panels can be painted in contrasting or complementing colors depending on the scheme you are adding them into. Also, if you are confident enough, this is something which can be easily achieved as a DIY project and makes the perfect backdrop to a bed, removing the need for a headboard. 

BESPOKE FITTED FURNITURE

Furnishing homes that reflect who we are personally is key to creating a timeless space that we feel connected to. Bespoke fitted furniture is a great way to implement this as shown here by Annie Sloan. Especially in kid’s rooms, you can create a space which is individual and unique according to your child’s interests. And, as our homes adapt over the years, design fitted furniture that can be easily deconstructed back into components which can then be repurposed for another use. 

STATEMENT WET AREAS

While baths in the bedroom is reminiscent of a luxury hotel, incorporating this into the home is a way in which to add a touch of indulgence. Make the most of architectural features such as bay windows and, by adding a small, raised level, it helps to make even more of a statement. Elevate the look even further and follow current bathroom trends for brighter colors and striking patterns – be bold, daring, and confident in your choices.

SEATING AREAS

“Bedroom seating creates a calm space and encourages relaxation in a room that is so often associated just as a place to sleep or study in!” It’s no surprise, seeing as sofa trends are such big news right now. Even if it’s just a nod to it in the form of a petite, neat, bedroom perch. Have we all maxed out on the idea or requirement to incorporate a working desk into our bedrooms at home? Possibly! Or is it simply the idea that relaxed seating brings a real sense of comfort and luxury to a bedroom space? Highly likely. 

STATEMENT HEADBOARDS

Headboards, but like you’ve never seen them before. Rising through the ranks in ‘must have’ bedroom decor stakes for 2023 is the need – the requirement even, if you want to be termed ‘on trend’ – for an all-out headboard design. No, we’re not just talking nice upholstery or plushy finishes – that we have seen before – we’re talking all-out design effort requirement to create headboards so spectacular that it is the design element of the room. People should be left with no doubt that you’re making your new headboard the centre of your bedroom design focus. The key is to create something “truly exceptional”, says Caz Myers. 

BOX ROOMS ARE TURNING BACK INTO BEDROOMS

“Small bedrooms can often be the coziest and most enticing spaces of all!” says Caz Myers. An increasingly popular bedroom trend is not to try and make these necessarily feel larger (fighting physics) but instead to go darker or stronger with color and decorating choices. “We increasingly make them intentionally darker in tone and bring in varied accent colors” explains Caz, “interesting wall coverings, colorful artwork pieces as well as a dynamic selection of accessories & interesting or unusual lighting – these elements are ways to create interest, and designer surprise, within a small bedroom space.” 

COLORFUL WINDOW SHUTTERS

Architectural features such as wooden window shutters are often something designers like to add into a scheme with a subtle approach, matching it to the walls or woodwork. However, many are bucking the trend by making a statement of such fittings through contrasting colors and finishes. As shown here by Shutterly Fabulous, be it slatted or panelled designs, adding color to the shutters draws the eye to them, bringing a vivacious touch to the room. 

PLAYFUL LAMPSHADES AND LIGHT COVERINGS

Charlie Dumais, a ceramicist at design studio Dumais Made, says that 2023 will bring a lot more expression in smaller accent pieces in our bedrooms, such as lampshades. “With our bedroom lamps, we predict seeing a lot more saturated colors, more glossy than matte finishes, and more elaborate shades,” Dumas tells us.

Interesting Uses of Paint and Color

Smith tells us that in 2023, we’ll see decorators using paint in interesting ways to define areas, like paint as a headboard that can be changed with the season. “People are looking for innate calmness and tranquility, particularly in a bedroom,” she says. “Paint does this in a natural way.’ Designer Anastasia Casey also predicts uses of color that we haven’t seen before. “Layered, saturated, and monochromatic color will be big—think 8 shades of olive, all slightly off from each other,” Casey shares. Cristina Lehman of C. Lehman Home agrees, too, noting that these choices will all lead to a change in bedroom ambiance. “I think we’ll start seeing more moodier, darker colors in bedrooms. People will be more willing to try out darker paint on the walls, darker bedding, or darker curtains.”

Scalloped and Curved Edges

While curves and scalloped edging have been making their way into more and more homes, Casey says she thinks we’ll see this even more in the coming year—but with a twist. “Furniture will continue to focus on curves and scallop details, but in larger scales than what we’ve been seeing in 2022,” Casey says. “I think we’ll see way more of that moving forward.”

For more inspiration and for the full articles please click HERE or HERE

Source: 14 bedroom trends for 2023, the year of the sanctuary space | Livingetc, BY RODDY CLARKE | OCTOBER 12, 2022; 11 Bedroom Design Trends That Will Be Big in 2023 (thespruce.com), BY ASHLEY CHALMERS | NOVEMBER 30 2022

Streaky Marble

This can’t-look-away kitchen by Toronto-based interior designer Sarah Birnie showcases one of the hottest trends on this list: prominent marble. Bold backsplashes and countertops make a statement in any sized kitchen. When shopping, look for loud stone in hues such as green, blue, pink and brown, or white with super streaky veining.

Colourful Countertops

Part of Silestone’s Sunlit Days Collection, these Arcilla Red countertops by Cosentino are a warm and earthy upgrade to tried-and-true white. The countertop is made of premium minerals, quartz and recycled materials and can be used on walls, as a tabletop, or anywhere your brave heart desires. It’s especially powerful in a monochromatic setting. Just dynamite!

Curves Ahead

Remember the waterfall island? Well, it’s washed up. Not really. We’re just being dramatic, but it is getting its comeuppance from curvy islands. A good example is this stunning space by Noam Hazan Design Studio, with its simple island form capped in super white quartzite.

Plant Life

Biophilic design is a feel-good trend, whereby materials replicate the look of the natural world, or plant life is brought in to create a connection with the outdoors. Case in point: This suspended trough light bearing a bounty of leafy goodness. You can’t help but love this wellness trend. The kitchen design and planter prototype is by Noam Hazan Design Studio.

The Stone Age

With its caramel tones and stunning misshapen forms, this natural stone backsplash instantly attracts attention. The treatment by Jaclyn Genovese of Spaces by Jacflash imparts a ton of character to a space. “Using a rustic stone material as a backsplash creates depth, exudes romance and charms,” says Jaclyn. “It gives off an old European-villa vibe,” says the designer who used an over-grouting technique to soften the look of the stone.

Statement Hood Vents

A hood vent should never been an afterthought. In this kitchen by designer Priya Mitrovic of Studio P, a bronze hood vent has scintillating style. Layered against the rich stone and black cabinetry, it’s sheer perfection.

Vintage Artwork

How riveting is this mysterious woman? You just want to know the story behind her portrait. Vintage oil paintings and artwork — once relegated to other areas of the house — are migrating to the kitchen, as seen in this captivating home by Toronto stylist Christine Hanlon. Old portraits and paintings are soulful and unexpected in a kitchen. Time to hit up garage sales and auctions!

Integrated Coffee Stations

Play barista right in your very home by incorporating a coffee station into your kitchen. In this neat and tidy set-up by Scilla Studio, the coffee station pulls out when in use, and then can be tucked away. The inset lighting feels so purposeful, while the glamorous  gold hardware amps up the white cabinetry.

Integrated Everything

Built-in or integrated appliances and sinks continue to dominate the design world, notes designer Jaclyn Genovese, which is exactly what she did in this smashing number. All of the appliances are covered in panels for a seamless vibe — even the range is missing in action. (Keep reading for more on that.) Also, warm wood cabinetry is having a moment right now.

PITT Cooktops

Here’s a closer look at that cooktop. While it’s a tad strange to see burners poking right out of a countertop, that’s exactly what’s going on here. The design-forward unit is a PITT cooktop. And the black cast iron burners look amazing in both contemporary and traditional kitchens.

Curated Art Ledges

Principal designer Jo Smeeth of INDA Interiors created a vibrant curated art ledge in this minimal and magnetic lake house. The artwork is by Paper Collective and Erin Rothstein. Note also the hewn wood piece resting on the countertop. Is it a kitchen or a gallery? It’s a bit of both, and that’s what this character-driven trend is all about.

Stacked Tiles

White subway tile is timeless and impossible to get wrong, but it can feel played out. This looks favours stacked vertical tile instead of the traditional brick pattern. These matte green beauties are from Fireclay Tile. Here’s a light pink version of stacked tile from the brand looking equally charming.

For the full article please click HERE and for more kitchen trends check out this article HERE

Source: Backsplash, Tile, Cabinetry: The 15 Top Kitchen Trends for 2023 (hgtv.ca), By: IRIS BENAROIA | NOVEMBER 3, 2022; 25 Top Kitchen Trends 2023: Color, Countertop and Tile Ideas (goodhousekeeping.com), BY ALYSSA GAUTIERI | JANUARY 11, 2023

PANTONE: Viva Magenta

Rounding out a year of blush-tone selections, Pantone selected Viva Magenta 18-1750, a bold pinkish red, as its 2023 color of the year, calling it “an unconventional shade for an unconventional time.” Viva Magenta is a saturated shade that’s not for the color-shy. The confident color is “inspired by the red of cochineal, one of the most precious dyes belonging to the natural dye family as well as one of the strongest and brightest the world has known,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. To decorate your home with Viva Magenta, utilize the red-meets-pink on furnishings and keep the rest of the room neutral. Soft blues, greens, and beiges cozy up with Viva Magenta while keeping the spotlight on the saturated shade.

BEHR: Blank Canvas

The clean look of white walls remains a popular choice for those hesitant to add colour to their space. According to a recent survey commissioned by BEHR, 75 per cent of homeowners say that the colour white promotes relaxation and creates a sense of calm, which is exactly what we need right now. BEHR’s 2023 Colour of the Year, Blank Canvas, is a warm off-white shade that is a versatile option for condo-dwellers or those with an open concept who are looking for one colour to use in every room.

SHERWIN-WILLIAMS: Redend Point

For the second year in a row, Sherwin-Williams has chosen an earth-tone naming Redend Point as their 2023 Colour of the Year. “The colour is a natural choice for those looking for a warm and joyful neutral in both interiors and exteriors,” shares Sue Wadden, director of colour marketing at Sherwin-Williams. This blush beige brings warmth into a room with subtle pink undertones that make your neutral furniture pop, adding a touch of terracotta to bedrooms and living rooms.

BENJAMIN MOORE: Raspberry Blush

Raspberry Blush, Benjamin Moore’s 2023 Colour of the Year, is a jovial saturated red-orange colour that uplifts the atmosphere in your home. “This upbeat colour makes a statement whether you use it as an accent or drench an entire room with it,” shared Sharon Grech, Benjamin Moore Colour & Design Expert. For those looking to add this coral-tinged hue to your space, Grech recommends using this colour in DIY projects to paint the kitchen and dining furniture or for an accent wall behind a credenza or larger piece of furniture.

GRAHAM & BROWN: Alizarin

UK-based Graham & Brown Colour of the Year 2023, Alizarin, is a rich red pigment that adds Victorian elegance and depth to your home. For a bold look, this colour compliments Graham & Brown wallpaper Design of the Year 2023, Florenzia Dusk, highlighting the auburn petals in the floral pattern.

GLIDDEN: Vining Ivy

The perfect shade for home decorators who can’t pick between painting their room blue or green, Glidden’s Vining Ivy is the perfect teal that blends both colours. For those experimenting with bolder jewel-toned colours, this shade works well as an accent wall in larger spaces but is dark enough to be a grounding and calming colour in your living space. 

DUTCH BOY: Rustic Greige

For those looking for a colour that will look chic for many years, Dutch Boy Paint’s 2023 Colour of the Year, Rustic Greige, is a charming neutral that will always look fresh. This medium-toned grey works well in high-traffic foyers, on a Board and Batten accent wall or used to refresh old kitchen cabinets, complementing warm and cool colour tones in busy rooms.

SHERWIN-WILLIAMS: The Terra Collection

Earlier this year, Sherwin-Williams also announced their 2023 Colormix®Forecast, predicting that we’ll see rooms painted in “rich earth tones, natural clays, sunbaked sands, restful neutrals and powdery pastels” this year in the Terra collection. To complement the 2023 Colour of the Year, Redend Point, decorators can choose between a shade lighter (Likeable Sand) or darker (Reddened Earth) as a part of the Nexus colour palette. For a cool blue, try painting with Silvermist as a cool neutral paired with Mount Etna for a bold accent from the Biome colour palette.

KRYLON: Spanish Moss

Green is quickly becoming the new neutral as homeowners opt for comforting colors in lieu of the crisp, bright whites of decades past. For its 2023 color of the year, Krylon selected Spanish Moss, a deep forest green that nods to nature. The spray paint shade easily upgrades furniture and decor, plus plays well with practically everything. “This midnight green has a strong connection with the richness of nature, dense forests, and mossy terrains. Rooted in the renewing power of green, it can balance with both warm and cool accents,” said Ashley Banbury, senior color designer for Krylon, in a press release. Banbury suggests pairing the rich, grounding green with complementary colors like gold, sandstone, and copper that relate to nature.

SICO: Melt Water

SICO has chosen Melt Water, a grounded, refreshing teal that is inspired by calming waters, as their 2023 Paint Colour of the Year. Available exclusively at Lowe’s and RONA, this blue-jewelled hue is adaptable in every space to offer a refined pop of colour that will still match your traditional home decor. For a touch of glam, this colour looks best in a room with gold home accents. 

CLARE: Rich Earth Tones

Taking feedback from their customers, Clare has expanded their green and blue shades and has added a rich red to their roster. A dark hue has become the new neutral, with Nearly Navy pairing with your existing decor. Vintage is a deep burgundy to add a bit of drama to your living room and splashes the colour of your favourite wine on your wall.

VALSPAR: 2023 Colors of the Year

Valspar selected 12 livable paint colors, including soft neutrals, sweet pastels, and soothing shades of blue and green. “[They] are usable shades that encourage self-expression and anyone can envision in their space,” said Sue Kim, Valspar color marketing manager, in a press release. Soft shades of pink and purple, including Gentle Violet (pictured above) and Southern Road, add sophisticated yet subtle color to walls, while rich, restorative blues and greens, including Flora and Everglade Deck, pair well with wood tones and brass accents. The collection launched alongside Valspar’s “Color-Verse,” a virtual home that allows consumers to try out the 2023 colors of the year.

Sources: hgtv.ca, By CALEIGH ALLEYNE | January 13, 2023, 2023 Paint Colours of the Year: 10 Expert-Approved Picks (hgtv.ca); bhg.com, By Caitlin Sole | January 23, 2023, Every 2023 Color of the Year We Know So Far (bhg.com)

Seafood Platters

Building an epic spread requires lots of surface area. You can go tall, with a classic two- or three-level tower, or wide with a paella pan, or baking sheet. Line the bottom of your chosen vessel with a kitchen towel to absorb excess water, pile on crushed ice, and arrange the seafood and accouterments on top. 

Multi-Level Tower

Two and three-level towers are great for gaining lots of surface area without sacrificing too much space on the table. Their small footprint and dramatic presentation make them worth owning. Be sure to order the trays and the stands together if you plan to go vertical.

Large Paella Pan

The most creative substitute for classic seafood towers, these dual-handled beauties make it easy to carry your feast from the kitchen to the table. Look for a pan with a deep design, which neatly hugs ice, seafood, and condiments, such as Made In’s carbon steel Paella Pan.

Baking Sheet

A rimmed half baking sheet has space for your seafood, condiments, and garnishes. You can enlist an everyday baking sheet or bust out a Goldtouch Pro Half Sheet pan, which has a golden nonstick finish.

Seafood Tools to Use

These handy kitchen tools make preparing seafood and setting up your seafood tower a breeze.

Ice Bag and Mallet

To expertly and efficiently crush ice at home, get a Viski Lewis Ice Bag and Mallet. The bag also absorbs excess water.

Oyster Knife

Make prep easy with a Victorinox Oyster Knife. It’s slip-resistant and compact, a staple in my knife collection that will have you shucking like a pro.

Cut-Resistant Gloves

When shucking, cut-resistant gloves or a thick towel to shield your wrist is recommended.

Small Scissors

Reach for a pair of Joyce Chen Scissors for shrimp. These tiny shears have narrow tips, which make deveining shell-on shrimp a breeze.

Choose your seafood

Oysters on the half shell, crab, lobster, shrimp, caviar — the world is your … well, you know. And if there’s room, add ceviche or clams, which need very little preparation (either serve them raw or steam them).

Oysters on the half shell

After choosing from your local store’s selection of fresh oysters, ask our Seafood team members to pack them for you on crushed ice. At home, clean and shuck right before serving. When it’s go-time, scoop the crushed ice into your serving platter and nestle each of the shells into the ice. Spoon the oysters into the shells.

Watch the video: How to shuck oysters

Grilled or baked oysters

If raw oysters on the half shell aren’t your jam, check out our cooked options like grilled or baked oysters Rockefeller. (If you’re cooking them in the oven, use a cast-iron pan with rock salt to keep the shells in place and retain the heat for serving.)

Get the recipe: Easy Oysters Rockefeller

Crab

When you buy cooked crab legs or claws, ask a Seafood team member to crack them for you, so it’s easy for your guests to pull them apart. If you’re buying whole crabs, they can crack those too.

Get the recipe: King Crab Legs with Spicy Garlic Oil

Lobster

If you’re having a small gathering then, by all means, serve individual lobster tails. Otherwise, slice steamed lobster tail into bite-sized pieces.

Get the recipe: Steamed Lobster Tails

Shrimp

Serve cold, cooked large shrimp piled on top of ice to keep everything chilled. Use peeled, deveined, tail-on shrimp for the easiest guest experience.

Try them in: Shrimp Cocktail with Rémoulade Sauce

For more recipes and ideas check out these articles HERE and HERE

Source: Wholefoodsmarket.com, How to Build a Seafood Tower: A Step-By-Step Guide | Whole Foods Market; Foodandwine.com, By Justin Chapple | November 17, 2022, How to Build the Best Seafood Tower (foodandwine.com); chatelaine.com, By Soo Kim | December 9, 2022, How To Build An Epic Seafood Tower – Chatelaine

Is it worthwhile?

Undoubtedly this is one of the biggest projects you can undertake in your home, and it carries some risks as well as a hefty price tag. On the flipside, you’ll not only increase the livable space in your home, your property value could see a substantial boost. Whether you hire a pro to complete the work or execute this epic DIY yourself, the added value alone makes this a worthy endeavour (if approached correctly).

Besides general considerations for this project, you’ll need to assess costs. Consider a professionally finished basement will cost between $35 and $55 per square foot (0.93m2). Of course, this cost would be reduced for a DIY, but it’s a good baseline for budgeting. 

Important: If you’re considering converting to a basement apartment, consulting your municipality and a qualified professional are both key in planning for a safe and legal living space for family or tenants.

Common pitfalls to avoid

Working without a permit: This is one of the most common mistakes when it comes to any type of renovation, causing potential financial and legal woes down the road—especially when selling your home.

Ignoring moisture: Before proceeding it’s important to confirm if conditions are suitable for finishing. Basement humidity levels must be maintained at 55% or less. Anything above 60% presents a mould risk. Tip: Taping two-foot squares of plastic sheeting strategically on the walls and floor for two-week periods is an excellent way to test for moisture penetration.

Improper flooring: Another major pitfall for finished basements is when carpet or organic flooring are laid on concrete. This can create conditions for condensation to collect, so it’s important to employ proper subflooring materials, or if possible, use inorganic flooring such as ceramic tiles.

No backup sump pump: If your basement requires a sump pit and pump to address drainage during spring or sustained rain, it’s important to maintain a working backup pump for emergencies. Tip: During dry periods, practice swapping out your pumps to avoid any panic when there’s a pump failure. 

Poor drainage: One of the most important considerations takes place outside your home. Ensure your gutters direct water at least 10 feet away from the home, and that the surrounding soil slopes away from the structure. 

Inadequate ceiling clearance: While most homeowners are not likely to attempt finishing a crawl space, it’s important to meet minimum code requirements for ceiling clearance. Clearance height may vary from city to city, but generally speaking you must keep a minimum height (below beams and ducts) of 6’11” for at least 75% of your usable floorspace.

Consult professionals

This can’t be stressed enough. Even if you plan to do the finishing work yourself, it’s best to consult a professional for this type of project. A building engineer or architect can help you develop a plan to avoid missing key details, while also helping to assure building permit approval.

All electrical, plumbing, or support structure work should be performed by licensed professionals to avoid costly, dangerous mistakes.

Materials

Once you have a plan, it’s time to purchase the materials you’ll need to accomplish this project. Assuming any drainage or moisture seal issues have already addressed, here are the main materials to plan for: 

• Treated lumber for studs (treated lumber is less susceptible to warping and rot)
• Metal or wood furring strips to create offsets along your walls (a must for uneven walls)
• Insulation (a solid foam insulation is recommended if it will contact the walls directly)
• Flooring materials (subflooring, carpet, laminate or tile)
• Drywall
• Paint
• Concrete sealer
• Hammer drill with masonry bits, masonry screws or slip anchor sleeves
• Plumbing (if you plan to install a bathroom or make changes to your laundry area)
• Sump pumps (every sump pit should have a primary and a backup pump)

Understandably, there’s a lot to consider, learn, and absorb when preparing to finish your basement. Taking the time to carefully plan out your project while being mindful of potential pitfalls will go a long way towards creating a beautiful space you can not only be proud of, but will provide years of enjoyment for your family, and those of future owners.

Source: Realtor.ca, By Gord Brown | February 16 2021; A Planning Guide to Finishing Your Basement – REALTOR.ca Blog

Photos by Lichelle Silvestry Interiors

Apartment at a Glance
Location: Paris
Size: 3,057 square feet (284 square meters)
Interior designer: Lichelle Silvestry Interiors

The 1913 apartment benefited from beautiful period features: solid oak flooring, moldings, decorative woodwork and marble fireplaces. These elements were carefully preserved as a reference to the home’s history.

The work on the apartment included a renovation of the bathrooms and the kitchen, the creation of a spacious laundry, the replacement of the electricity and meticulous work on indirect lighting to create an intimate and cozy cocoon.

Most of the rooms stayed in their original places, other than the kitchen, which was inserted into the heart of the apartment. 

The existing tile at the entrance is matched with a contemporary and radiant decor. The soft tones on the walls underscore the couple’s art collection. This is matched with a black sofa with contemporary lines and several features in light wood, such as this custom-made oak table.

The solid light-oak flooring was restored to wrap the home in a bubble of softness.

The interior designer worked in furniture pieces and art pieces that had already belonged to the owners. “We therefore created a perfect equilibrium between the classic architecture of this apartment and the contemporary furniture pieces that dress each of the spaces,” Silvestry says.

The minimalist design of the dining room marries light wood and white to create a coherent decor that extends the kitchen space.

The new kitchen is in what was once the dining room. This light-filled space is a stylish mixture of light wood, off-white and gilt brass. The countertop and the backsplash are decorated in a quartz with beige tones, which works well with the wooden facades of the kitchen cupboards.

A large central island and bar chairs are used for day-to-day meals.

The fifth-floor apartment has magnificent windows so it was already very bright.

In the main bedroom, the original carpet was replaced with light wood in broad planks.

“We narrowed the adjacent bedroom slightly to expand this bathroom. It now includes a generously proportioned shower, a bidet and a vanity with two sinks,” the designer says.

The bathroom adopts the same decorative codes as the other rooms in the apartment, in mixing light wood and beige, with several brass accents in the fixtures.

For more pictures and details of the renovation please click HERE

Source: Houzz.com, By: Elen Pouhaer | August 13, 2022; Houzz Tour: Subtle Elegance Meets Period Features

1. Insulate your house

Adding insulation to the walls of your home prevents warm air from leaking out in the winter. Eschew unsustainable sheep’s wool and harmful fiberglass for cotton, which can be made into thick batts for your walls. Other options include cork produced from the regenerating bark of a cork oak tree and cellulose from recycled newsprint and paper.

2. Opt for air sealing

Climate tech company Sealed reports the average home loses up to 50 percent of its heat through the top of the house thanks to under-insulated or unsealed attics. Air sealing a home, which also often includes upgraded insulation, makes temperature easier to regulate—whether you’re cooling or heating—and reduces energy usage by rendering climate-control efforts more effective.

3. Rethink your floor plan

Getting in touch with nature has plenty of health benefits, but optimizing your layout to take advantage of natural light is also an easy way to cut down on energy consumption (and save money). “Think about which rooms have the most sunlight and how you are utilizing them,” counsels New York designer Gala Magriñá. “Is there a better way to position your office or a breakfast nook so that they are in brighter light? Are your windows dirty, or are the window coverings broken so you don’t raise the shades?” Addressing such seemingly cosmetic fixes can have a positive impact on your energy consumption.

4. Install sustainable flooring

Reclaimed wood salvaged from old structures like barns or older buildings can be reused and kept from rotting in a landfill—a great way to save trees. It also helps improve air quality, since it’s not manufactured and doesn’t contain harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Other sustainable flooring options include bamboo, cork, recycled glass, or recycled plastic bottles and tires that can be turned into carpets.

5. Use energy-efficient air conditioners

An energy-efficient air conditioner lowers your energy use and carbon footprint, not to mention your monthly bill! There are two types of units to consider: a split system and packaged central air system using ducts.

6. Choose hydronic radiant heating

Hydronic radiant heating systems use water to heat a home instead of air. They are much more energy-efficient than forced air gas heating systems—not to mention a lot cheaper in the long run, Silver reveals. Plus, water-based systems reduce allergies, since “air is not being blown around, shooting dust particles,” he notes.

7. Invest in solar panels

Solar panels on your roof will source clean, pure energy directly from the sun, thereby reducing the use of fossil fuels. Though it can take some time to realize savings after the cost of installation (EcoWatch estimates that it takes about eight years to break even), solar power is one of the most proven ways to reduce household energy use. Ideally, you’ll need a sunny, south-facing roof that’s in good shape to support the panels. (You don’t need to replace your roof, but do make sure it has got a long life ahead of it.) While solar panels can be costly, many states offer incentives and subsidies for homeowners looking to make the switch.

8. Upgrade your power strips

Some electronics need the steady flow of power (your modem and router, for example); others, like printers or video game consoles, only require energy when in use. To avoid what’s called “phantom” power losses without the inconvenience and clutter of unplugging devices outright, opt for a conservation-minded solution like the Simply Conserve 7-Outlet Advanced power strip, which uses a mix of “control,” “always on,” and “switched” outlets so that the only devices pulling power are those in use.

9. Opt for high-performance windows

Double-pane windows help keep cold air out in the winter and heat from the sun out in the summer. The high-performing windows can reduce the amount of heat escaping by up to 50%. For an extra environmentally-friendly touch, add sustainable blinds made from hemp or bamboo, or cotton curtains for a cozy and quiet bedroom.

10. Install a smart thermostat

Corey Silver, a real estate broker at Re/Max in Toronto, suggests using a smart thermostat to monitor your energy consumption and control the climate of your home using Wifi and a phone app. “Simple digital thermostats can make a huge impact on your energy efficiency,” he says. “The ability to schedule your energy requirements based on peak and low usage times is a big advantage. Plus, it can all be done on your smartphone!”

11. Buy energy-efficient kitchen appliances

The Energy Star label was created to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pollutants caused by inefficient use of energy and is backed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). An Energy Star certified dishwasher can save almost 5,000 gallons of water annually. Other Energy Star certified appliances that use from 10% to 50% less energy include washers, dryers, refrigerators, boilers, furnaces, office equipment and electronics.

12. Choose eco-paints and wallpapers for your walls

Eco-friendly paints have lower levels of VOCs and emit fewer toxins, which reduces indoor air pollution. (The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers plenty of resources to help you pick the best sustainable paint or coating for your space.)

For more ideas and the full article please click HERE

Source: HouseBeautiful.com, BY KAITLIN PETERSEN AND MIRIAM PORTER | June 9, 2022; Happy Earth Day: 37 Ways to Make Your Home More Environmentally Friendly (housebeautiful.com)