Make Your Living Space Functional & Dynamic

Companies like Google have redefined the meaning of a dynamic workspace, with bright colours, slides instead of stairs, and large-scale installations throughout meeting spaces. Maybe you're not ready to go to quite that extent in your own home, but there are certain design options you can incorporate to make your home stand out from the pack.

Consider the following ideas:

Create indoor/outdoor living spaces. This can be achieved through a pair of glass-panned French doors off the living room, opening up to the outdoor patio. If you're considering a full remodel, a retractable glass wall will achieve the same effect with a more daring impact.

Image via Architectural Digest

Try your hand at DIY. Do-It-Yourself projects not only personalize a space, but they become a conversation piece perfect for entertaining. Consider taking on an art project incorporating family photos. Experiment with canvas size, frames, and different layouts to accent a point of interest in a room.

Image via Diva of DIY

Incorporate something unexpected. Consider wall treatments or furniture that one doesn't normally see in a living space. For example, stone treatments are conventionally kept for the fireplace or outdoor living space, but if you have an open living area with plenty of natural light, a stone or brick wall can add a nice flair of character to a space.

Image via Dust Jacket

Design around a focal point. The focal point directs the eye to what it should see first. This could be a grand fireplace or statement coffee table in the centre of a seating area. Once you pick your focal point, coordinate other aspects of your design to compliment this statement piece.

Image via The Merry Thought

If you want to see one of the latest creations in cutting-edge home design, don't miss the Ottawa Home & Garden Show, March 26-29, at the EY Centre. Bonneville Homes will be debuting their supreme model home, EXALT. Designed as a haven of serenity and relaxation, EXALT features a retractable glass wall that will redefine how you think about indoor/outdoor living space. If you're in Ottawa, you won't want to miss it. Right now you can get 2-for-1 tickets on Facebook. Treat a friend or family member to the show and get ready to find inspiration for your decor.