Showing posts with label HOME DECOR. Show all posts
Showing posts with label HOME DECOR. Show all posts
Apr 8, 2016
What is it about springtime that signals the start of DIY season? Yes, there are many who undertake projects all year long, but for some reason there seems to be a flurry of home improvement activity as the temperature begins to rise. Perhaps it's the bright spring sunshine illuminating your dated decor, or the prevalence of inspiring spring colors, patterns, and trends, or maybe we're all just feeling invigorated after a long winter's rest. Regardless of your motivations, we're excited to share some new projects to help cultivate your DIY ambitions. We know that starting a DIY entirely from scratch can be a lot of work and usually requires a certain level of skill that not every homeowner possesses. So we decided to share our 10 favorite IKEA hacks - simple projects you can try to make your otherwise conventional IKEA furniture look more beautiful and luxurious. Check out great ideas from some of the best bloggers our there and get ready to get your DIY on.
Side Table - This IKEA table was only $30, but you wouldn't believe it - heck, you wouldn't even believe it was from IKEA. Style Me Pretty used marble contact paper and copperleaf to give this side table a serious upgrade! Get the full tutorial here.
Window Bench - Mommy Vignettes is the genius behind this creative upgrade. A cushion, some legs, and a bit of carpentry turn this shelving unit into a window bench. Get the full tutorial here.
Bathroom Vanity - The Golden Sycamore went a little rustic with their hack and we approve. A touch of milk paint changes the feel of this IKEA vanity, making it look a lot more luxurious, expensive, and unique. Get the full tutorial here.
Lamp - Cape 27 fill the inside of this clear IKEA lamp with paint creating a bright, adorable piece of furniture. $23 well spent! Get the full tutorial here.
We're not IKIDDING you, these are from IKEA!
Stools - This Little Street shows us that removable wallpaper in fun patterns turns regular stools into works of art! Perfect for children's rooms or just jazzing up your own space, these stools are super easy to make. Get the full tutorial here.
Cabinets - You might not know this, but switching out the knobs and top part of this cabinet make it look like a custom built-in. As Made By Girl proves, it's the little details that define IKEA furniture, so transforming these pieces isn't usually a huge undertaking. Get the full tutorial here.
Image via This Little Street
Cabinets - You might not know this, but switching out the knobs and top part of this cabinet make it look like a custom built-in. As Made By Girl proves, it's the little details that define IKEA furniture, so transforming these pieces isn't usually a huge undertaking. Get the full tutorial here.
Image via Made By Girl
Side Table - This IKEA table was only $30, but you wouldn't believe it - heck, you wouldn't even believe it was from IKEA. Style Me Pretty used marble contact paper and copperleaf to give this side table a serious upgrade! Get the full tutorial here.
Image via Style Me Pretty
Entryway Table - Just because a piece of IKEA furniture doesn't fit your exact requirements when you first buy it, doesn't mean you can't make it work. Using paint and a little carpentry, The Sweet Beast turned this shelf into the perfect entryway table. Get the full tutorial here.
Tote - Ok, so this isn't exactly for your home, but the hack from Melissa Esplin was so creative we had to share it. I guess what we're trying to say is, we totally love this tote. It's more complex than the other hacks we've shared, but the end result is so stunning you won't believe this bag was once a pillow case. Get the full tutorial here.
Image via Melissa Esplin
Window Bench - Mommy Vignettes is the genius behind this creative upgrade. A cushion, some legs, and a bit of carpentry turn this shelving unit into a window bench. Get the full tutorial here.
Image via Mommy Vignettes
Chair - Turn a boring, plastic desk chair, into something more fluffy, original, and comfortable. Our very own Digital Marketing Director, Joanne Carry, is responsible for this creative hack!
Image via Snapguide
Lamp - Cape 27 fill the inside of this clear IKEA lamp with paint creating a bright, adorable piece of furniture. $23 well spent! Get the full tutorial here.
Image via Cape Twenty Seven
We love lamp!
Bookshelves - Centsational Girl added some faux crown molding to these simple bookshelves and painted their interiors a rich color to make them look a lot more high-end. What a great idea! Get the full tutorial here.
Image via Centsational Girl
We hope these hacks help to inspire your next DIY project and show you how a really simple undertaking can have a huge impact on a space. Are there other IKEA hacks you've tried that we haven't listed here? Share them with @HomeShows on Twitter and Instagram. We'd love to hear about how you've made your furniture better!
Jan 20, 2016
As
the winter weather moves us indoors, it’s important to focus on simple ways to
boost the look of your interior space. The changing of the seasons provides the
perfect opportunity to get away from the cold and spice things up inside. This
winter, why not try a simple DIY project? With our Christmas bills still
hanging around, a DIY project will not only save you some money but will also
add some interior flair to your home.
Adding an Accent Window. It’s no surprise that adding a bold
accent can really boost a room. Adding a new focal point brings a pop of colour
to a room, livening it instantly. If the idea of painting a whole wall seems a
bit daunting, try painting an accent window. If you can balance it with the
other windows in your space, painting the window trim a bold colour will
achieve everything an accent wall does without the hassle of a big paint job.
Image via Apartment Therapy
Creative Lighting Cover-up. To bring a new dimension and life to
any room, try drawing eyes up to the ceiling with a statement lighting fixture.
A simple switch of fixtures can make all the difference in livening a room. But
wait! If a whole new fixture isn’t in the budget this season, the same thing
can be accomplished by adding a DIY drum shade to your pre-existing fixture. Using
embroidery hoops, fabric and ribbon, you can make an incredibly simple drum
shade for any fixture in your home. The shade will cover the old fixture and give
the illusion of a fancy, modern addition to your room, for under $50.
Image via Ebay
Make a “Brand New” Headboard. To refresh your bedroom this winter,
try updating your headboard. Though it may seem like a big task, a DIY
headboard is an inexpensive way to bring new colours and textures into your
bedroom. To keep things simple, reupholster or paint the headboard with an
updated fabric or colour. For the more daring DIYers, create a unique headboard
out of repurposed wood, painted window shutters or even shelving units!
Image via Homedit
Give Cabinets a Facelift. We can’t forget the kitchen! Change
things up with updated, polished cabinets. You don’t need an entirely new set
of cabinetry to make a big impact in the kitchen. By simply repainting or
staining your pre-loved cabinet doors, you can brighten the entire room while
also giving it a more polished, modern look. Switching out the hardware on your
cupboards and drawers can also do wonders in making a kitchen feel more modern.
Bold, uniform hardware paired with the updated cabinets is sure to make a huge
impact with minimal effort.
Image via Nina Hendrick
Don’t miss the
all-new Ottawa Home & Remodelling Show, January 21-24, 2016, for the latest
trends for 2016 and over 150 renovation experts from the Ottawa region to help
you accomplish them. Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on Facebook and treat a friend or family member to the show. We can't wait to see you there!
EY CENTRE
JANUARY 21-24, 2016.
Mar 16, 2015
We are all about inspiration and innovation when it comes to home design, which is why were are so thrilled about our Wavefront Automation Smart Home feature at the Edmonton Home + Garden Show.
If you are in the early stages of your dream home design, get inspired to dive in with confidence and some great ideas. This 1,000 sq. ft. custom-built home is chalk-full of inspired decor, innovative gadgets, custom built-ins, and the latest in lighting design.
Rosalyn Lazaruk, Owner of Wicket Blue Interiors, used her expertise to give the Wavefront Automation Smart Home life and colour. She says her job was to give the space a functional layout.
"It's a small space, which can be a challenge for space planning. We wanted to get the most out of the space while still keeping it open and airy."
With a limited amount of room to work with, Rosalyn played up the Smart Home interiors by including visually interesting pieces, making sure that the smaller layout was interesting and enticing.
As for her inspiration for the home's interior, the Smart Home will be showcasing the latest in efficient home design with innovation gadgets from Wavefront Automation. We can't wait to see what they come up with!
You can tour the innovative Wavefront Automation Smart Home at the Edmonton Home + Garden Show, March 19-22 at the Edmonton Expo Centre - and be sure to check out Rosalyn's design presentation on the main stage!
You can also find the masterminds behind all things Smart Home related, from unique flooring to custom cabinetry, on the show floor at their company booths. These experts include:
Smart Home Sponsors
If you are in the early stages of your dream home design, get inspired to dive in with confidence and some great ideas. This 1,000 sq. ft. custom-built home is chalk-full of inspired decor, innovative gadgets, custom built-ins, and the latest in lighting design.
Rosalyn Lazaruk, Owner of Wicket Blue Interiors, used her expertise to give the Wavefront Automation Smart Home life and colour. She says her job was to give the space a functional layout.
"It's a small space, which can be a challenge for space planning. We wanted to get the most out of the space while still keeping it open and airy."
With a limited amount of room to work with, Rosalyn played up the Smart Home interiors by including visually interesting pieces, making sure that the smaller layout was interesting and enticing.
As for her inspiration for the home's interior, the Smart Home will be showcasing the latest in efficient home design with innovation gadgets from Wavefront Automation. We can't wait to see what they come up with!
You can tour the innovative Wavefront Automation Smart Home at the Edmonton Home + Garden Show, March 19-22 at the Edmonton Expo Centre - and be sure to check out Rosalyn's design presentation on the main stage!
You can also find the masterminds behind all things Smart Home related, from unique flooring to custom cabinetry, on the show floor at their company booths. These experts include:
Smart Home Sponsors
- Edmonton Journal
- RCL Landscapes - Booth #2045 & #2049
- Wavefront Automation
- Wicket Blue Interiors
- Access Plumbing & Heating
- Acclaimed Heating & Cooling - Booth #1427
- Avenue Appliance - Booth #580
- Coldwell Banker - Booth #1643
- Delton Cabinets
- F2 Furnishings
- FLOFORM - Booth #1762
- ForeverLawn - Booth #2032
- Garage Co. Builders - Booth #1421
- Greenland Garden Centre
- HERR Windows & Doors - Booth #2224
- Liquid Granite Coatings - Booth #120
- Patio Solutions - Booth #2229 & #2539
- Shed Solutions
- Solaris - Booth #2233
- The Tile Shoppe
- Trademark Flooring - Booth #1151
- World of Spas - Booth #867
Mar 11, 2015
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mar 9, 2015
For Halloween we drape cobwebs and plastic spiders, for Christmas we deck the halls with boughs of holly, and for spring we add a breath of fresh air! As the weather starts finally getting warmer, the snow begins to melt, and we set out clocks ahead, it's clear that spring is on the way. To help welcome this much missed season into our hearts and homes, check out our list of Do's and Don'ts for refreshing your home decor.
Do:
Do:
- Brighten your spaces. Something nice and easy you can do is update your window treatment to a sheer, light, flowing fabric that will let the light in and sway with the breeze. You can also try putting a slipcover of a lighter colour on a dark sofa to change the feeling of a room.
- Add some new pieces. Spring makes us think of bright colours, organic lines, and floral-inspired patterns. Incorporating these trends with a few throw pillows on a sofa can add that extra detail to make your room pop!
- Get creative. It's no lie that opposites attract. Experiment by combining different textures, finishes, and fabrics to see what you like.
- Hold on to clutter. 'Tis the season for spring cleaning! Having a clean and organized living space creates an oasis to come home to and relax after a long day. For those small items that we all inevitably need to keep, consider creative storage options like vases or decorative boxes.
- Remove your own character. Your home should incorporate the pieces that speak to your interests and hobbies, and all the things that make you happy. Continue to incorporate those conversation pieces that tell a story about you and where you've been.
- Forget about functionality. At the end of the day your home has to work for you. Keep the staple pieces that make your home functional, like a bench seat at the front door, but consider updating them with a brighter fabric or sleeker design for the season.
Feb 5, 2015
Whether you're looking for inspiration to maximize the length of time you can stay in your home as you age or looking to create a high-tech entertainment space, The Great Big Home + Garden Show's Idea, High-Tech Entertainment, and Cedar Brooke homes are sure to give you lots of great ideas. Read on to learn more about each of the innovative home designs.
Idea Home
A 2,400 square-foot ranch-style home, the Winding Willow Lodge is an amazing open concept home that bridges the gap between lodge/rustic and traditional architecture. Large open spaces in the kitchen, dining, and family rooms, featuring 10 foot ceilings, connect to outside living spaces located off of the family room and master bedroom, making it the perfect space to entertain family and friends. Guests will enjoy relaxing by the stone fireplace in the family room or engaging in lively conversation around the large granite island with plenty of seating. Step outside onto the large deck off the kitchen or take a seat on the rear covered porch.
The unique aging-in-place design features larger hallways throughout the rest of this sustainable, three-bedroom, two-bathroom, ENERGY STAR efficient home. Additional aging-in-place features include wheelchair accessible doorways and easy bathroom access. The master suite is complete with a cozy fireplace, large walk-in closet, and a low slope walk-in shower with double sinks. The home also includes a large office off of the entry foyer, mudroom with lockers, spacious laundry room with laundry tub, and a walk-in pantry.
Xtend Technologies' High-Tech Entertainment Home
The fully constructed, 1,500 square-foot High-Tech Entertainment Home by Xtend Technologies will inspire visitors with ideas for their own indoor/outdoor entertainment and recreation areas. Designed with entertaining in mind, its home theater, indoor spa, beautifully landscaped patio with fire fit, outdoor movie theater with a 150-inch screen, and a large in-ground pool provides the perfect set up for having family and friends over for a party. Guests can sit in one of eight leather, power-reclining home theater seats and experience live demonstrations in Xtend Technologies' Home Theater. Special features include a 13-channel THX and Dolby Atmos state of the art sound system, a 100-inch 4k ultra high-definition screen, custom acoustical sound paneling, and a home automation solution that allows for complete control of all entertainment features, lighting, heating/cooling, door locks, and security cameras. Landscaping and the patio surrounding the outside of the home is provided by Morton's Landscaping.
Come to our pool party! Cleveland Aqua Pros will be featuring a kidney shaped pool perfect for most any home. Whether you are designing or building a backyard oasis or need repairs done on an existing pool, Cleveland Aqua Pros has you covered.
Cedar Brooke Home
A Cedar Brooke Home built by Weaver Barns will inspire the entire family. Whether you're in the market for a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, or that cabin by the lake you've always dreamed about, Weaver Barns has the place for you! With rustic cedar siding and an open floor plan, cathedral ceilings, and loft area, you will find it's the perfect place to relax and feel at home. Amish craftsmanship specializing in quality, design, and the ability to customize your needs is what will make your Weaver Barns buying experience a pleasant one.
Plan to see each home in person by visiting The Great Big Home + Garden Show, February 6-15 at the Cleveland I-X Center. Buy your tickets early to get the best deals and avoid box office lines. Right now you can get 2-for-1 tickets on Facebook. Bring a friend or family member to the show - we can't wait to see you there!
FEBRUARY 6 - 15, 2015.
Idea Home
A 2,400 square-foot ranch-style home, the Winding Willow Lodge is an amazing open concept home that bridges the gap between lodge/rustic and traditional architecture. Large open spaces in the kitchen, dining, and family rooms, featuring 10 foot ceilings, connect to outside living spaces located off of the family room and master bedroom, making it the perfect space to entertain family and friends. Guests will enjoy relaxing by the stone fireplace in the family room or engaging in lively conversation around the large granite island with plenty of seating. Step outside onto the large deck off the kitchen or take a seat on the rear covered porch.
Xtend Technologies' High-Tech Entertainment Home
The fully constructed, 1,500 square-foot High-Tech Entertainment Home by Xtend Technologies will inspire visitors with ideas for their own indoor/outdoor entertainment and recreation areas. Designed with entertaining in mind, its home theater, indoor spa, beautifully landscaped patio with fire fit, outdoor movie theater with a 150-inch screen, and a large in-ground pool provides the perfect set up for having family and friends over for a party. Guests can sit in one of eight leather, power-reclining home theater seats and experience live demonstrations in Xtend Technologies' Home Theater. Special features include a 13-channel THX and Dolby Atmos state of the art sound system, a 100-inch 4k ultra high-definition screen, custom acoustical sound paneling, and a home automation solution that allows for complete control of all entertainment features, lighting, heating/cooling, door locks, and security cameras. Landscaping and the patio surrounding the outside of the home is provided by Morton's Landscaping.
Come to our pool party! Cleveland Aqua Pros will be featuring a kidney shaped pool perfect for most any home. Whether you are designing or building a backyard oasis or need repairs done on an existing pool, Cleveland Aqua Pros has you covered.
Cedar Brooke Home
A Cedar Brooke Home built by Weaver Barns will inspire the entire family. Whether you're in the market for a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, or that cabin by the lake you've always dreamed about, Weaver Barns has the place for you! With rustic cedar siding and an open floor plan, cathedral ceilings, and loft area, you will find it's the perfect place to relax and feel at home. Amish craftsmanship specializing in quality, design, and the ability to customize your needs is what will make your Weaver Barns buying experience a pleasant one.
Plan to see each home in person by visiting The Great Big Home + Garden Show, February 6-15 at the Cleveland I-X Center. Buy your tickets early to get the best deals and avoid box office lines. Right now you can get 2-for-1 tickets on Facebook. Bring a friend or family member to the show - we can't wait to see you there!
FEBRUARY 6 - 15, 2015.
I-X CENTER
Jan 14, 2015
Calling all modern decor lovers! If you are drawn to incredibly unique furniture with a modern twist, you will love one of the NOLA Home Show's exhibitors, Modern Market. Their focus is supporting emerging product design and ideas for creative living.
Choose from several different categories that feature that contemporary, eye-catching look. Modern Market offers furniture, accessories, lighting, rugs and pillows, dining, and bed and bath - among other options.
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Don't miss an up close and personal experience with Modern Market at the NOLA Home Show, January 16-18 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. The three-day event will feature more than 200 exhibitors, as well as special appearances by HGTV's John Gidding and host of ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Ty Pennington. There will be plenty to see and do, and we can't wait to meet you there! Still in need of tickets? Get 2-for-1 tickets on our Facebook Ticket Deals.
JANUARY 16 - 18, 2015.
Choose from several different categories that feature that contemporary, eye-catching look. Modern Market offers furniture, accessories, lighting, rugs and pillows, dining, and bed and bath - among other options.
Don't miss an up close and personal experience with Modern Market at the NOLA Home Show, January 16-18 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. The three-day event will feature more than 200 exhibitors, as well as special appearances by HGTV's John Gidding and host of ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Ty Pennington. There will be plenty to see and do, and we can't wait to meet you there! Still in need of tickets? Get 2-for-1 tickets on our Facebook Ticket Deals.
JANUARY 16 - 18, 2015.
ERNEST N. MORIAL CENTER
Nov 7, 2014
It’s November, which means that pumpkin you carved a few weeks ago for Halloween is
starting to stink. Now it might not have fully collapsed in on itself like ours
did, but we’d be surprised if it wasn’t already fairly rotten. You know what
you have to do. You may have gotten attached because you did carve it and all,
but it’s time to get rid of your pumpkin. However, in doing this you’re opening
up a whole new can of worms: what should take its place? For most of us it’s
too early to put up the holiday decorations – that comes after Thanksgiving. So
how do you transition away from Halloween without going full blown winter
wonderland? Consider our ideas below for late fall decorations. These seasonal
pieces should have your decor covered until turkey day.
Pine Cone Garland - You don't necessarily need a mantle to decorate with these guys. We love the idea of hanging them around a door frame or banister.
Image via The Sweetest Occasion
Monogrammed Wreath - The rich colors in this wreath are beautiful and luxurious, plus the monogram adds a personal and welcoming touch.
Image via Rantings Of A Creole Princess
Fall Doormat - Try getting a burlap or plain doormat and jazzing it up. You could do a leaf print like they did here or a turkey one for Thanksgiving.
Image via Life Is A Party
Glittery Leaves - All that glitters isn't gold, but we think these leaves look great. Hang them inside or out.
Image via 6th Street Design School
Wooden Tags - Don't want to hang a wreath? We think these creative tags are a very original replacement for the traditional door decoration. And we love the message!
Image via that's my letter
We hope these ideas help you to fill the gap between Halloween and the holiday season. If you already have post-Halloween decorations up we've got to ask: what are they? How do you celebrate the end of fall? Let us know!
Sep 17, 2014
1. Hammock Floor - Great for sitting, napping, and hanging out, the hammock floor is a must-have when you could have it all.
Image via Apartment Therapy
Image via Ebaumsworld
3. Secret Room - Inspired by Batman and Harry Potter, every child has dreamed of having a secret room in their home. Make the fantasy come true!
Image via The Huffington Post
Ok, we'd probably try and do this even if we did have some pretty severe budget and space limitations!
Image via Yahoo News
5. Swimming Pool Balcony - The awesomeness of the swimming pool balcony is pretty self-explanatory.
Image via My Modern Met
6. Clear Bathtub - For some reason, when things that aren't normally see-through are see-through (especially when they contain water) they are 50 times cooler.
Image via Imgur
Image via Ecofriend
These are some pretty outrageous home improvement projects, so we have to ask: if you didn't have any constraints, would you actually try any of the upgrades we listed? Or is there a different project you'd undertake?
Planning a more practical renovation? Make sure to head to the Marketplace Events home show nearest you for design inspiration and advice. Check out the shows that are happening in your area - US Shows & Canadian Shows.
Sep 5, 2014
Decorating a small space can be a big challenge. When spatial limitations have a huge impact on what you can and can't have in your home, it's easy to get discouraged and overwhelmed. Can you really use furnishings, paint, and lighting to create the illusion of size? And, more importantly, how can you incorporate your stuff, style, and self into your decor if your primary concern is saving space? Fear not cozy cave dwellers, we've got six quick tips to help you create a small space you'll really love. Whether you're moving into your first off-campus apartment, downsizing, or just looking to improve the little space you already occupy, these ideas will help you maximize your square footage and make less look like more.
1. Strategy - Be smart about the way you use your space. Go vertical where you can, opting for tall over wide bookshelves, end or side tables, and dressers. Hang pictures and curtains higher than you normally would to draw focus up. But remember not to let things get too cluttered.
2. Color - Living in a small home doesn't mean that you have to give up on bright color entirely. Everything doesn't have to be white or beige, but it should be monochromatic. Using a consistent color scheme is easy for the eyes to take in and makes your space look more expansive. Frequent changes in color interrupt the way we look at our surroundings and make spaces seem smaller by dividing them. You can incorporate some pops of color into your theme, but try and limit their frequency.
3. Transparency - Get creative when it comes to organizing your things. If you use floating shelves instead of a standard bookshelf, it can add depth and a sense of space. Traditional shelving can be bulky, but floating shelves let you see the floor, which makes the room seem larger.
4. Versatility - Choose furniture that can be used differently depending on the situation, like pullout couches and folding tables. Don't get a dining room table and a desk; get a dining room table that doubles as a desk. Having a fluid space ultimately translates to having more space.
5. Mirrors - This is an old trick, but that doesn't make it less effective. Mirrors make your space look twice as big by reflecting it. Use them to your advantage wherever you can.
6. Lighting - Shadows are the enemy of a small space. They highlight the actual size of the room and draw attention to the large objects within it. Make sure to get the lighting you need so that your home is bright, no matter where the sun is.
Are you facing a design challenge? The experts at Marketplace Events home shows are there to give you the advice, inspiration, and tips you need to solve your decorating dilemmas. Grab tickets to the show nearest you (US shows & Canadian shows), and make your dream home a reality.
1. Strategy - Be smart about the way you use your space. Go vertical where you can, opting for tall over wide bookshelves, end or side tables, and dressers. Hang pictures and curtains higher than you normally would to draw focus up. But remember not to let things get too cluttered.
Image via Apartment Therapy
Image via The 36th Avenue
Image via VintageRevivals
Image via Apartment Therapy
5. Mirrors - This is an old trick, but that doesn't make it less effective. Mirrors make your space look twice as big by reflecting it. Use them to your advantage wherever you can.
Image via House & Home
6. Lighting - Shadows are the enemy of a small space. They highlight the actual size of the room and draw attention to the large objects within it. Make sure to get the lighting you need so that your home is bright, no matter where the sun is.
Image via House & Home
Are you facing a design challenge? The experts at Marketplace Events home shows are there to give you the advice, inspiration, and tips you need to solve your decorating dilemmas. Grab tickets to the show nearest you (US shows & Canadian shows), and make your dream home a reality.
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