Top Trends for 2009

Getting Smaller
Condos and smaller spaces will get a lot of attention next year. It’s a trend covering every room of the home and every style of furniture. The emphasis is on space saving features as suppliers are building flexibility into their designs while taking a new look at dimensions, proportions and volumes. This philosophy is reflected in minimalist designs, linear volumes, streamlined profiles and gently rounded shapes and the interplay of lines with slender silhouettes and tapered bases in wood furniture.

Saving Space
Multi purpose isn’t ew but in 2009 it is everywhere as mobile storage continues to evolve. Chairs and sofa will turn into something else and move from room to room as small tables sprout handy extensions and sofas and beds reveal hidden storage. Ottomans and accent tables conceal a spare bed while a shelf turns into a table. All sorts of pieces are doing double duty and have been re-invented in multiple ways. We’re mobile and so are our homes, changing our moods and needs.

Contemporary Leads the Pack
Modern and Contemporary styles are front and centre. Both blend beautifully with the multipurpose trend that is transforming our spaces and the way we live. Light, and simple shapes and graphic lines are everywhere. We are choosing furniture that makes the most of our spaces and lifestyles- relaxed and enjoyable.

Wood: dark or natural; rough or silky smooth
Wood is taking off in all directions. Smooth, silky finishes on North Americans most popular material are still in vogue, as are high-gloss finishes. The use of reclaimed or recycled wood is spreading. Wood with a rough hewn texture, aged to imitate the patina that comes with time, is right in step with the rising consumer tide. Stains are still on the dark side (think chocolate, cappuccino and so on), but the return of clear, natural finishes is also being seen.

Fabrics & Leathers: closer to nature
Supple leathers are in favour and microsuede is evolving-now it looks for all the world like leather. Reconstituted or bonded leather is scoring points for not only looking but feeling like the real thing. When it comes to fabrics, textured materials such as cotton and linens are the rage.

Black and White: hotter than ever
Black and white is absolutely everywhere- in leather and fabric upholstery, in the bedroom, living room and dining, in lamps and accessories. These classic colours go with everything and set the seal on room décor. Earth tones remain in the running. Grey is trendy while vivid shots of colour like yellow, green and pink are coming back. Colourful modern flowers and black and white graphics will be a big hit.

The Last Word
The most significant industry trend is meeting consumers needs by helping them customize the furniture they buy. Customization is more than an approach; it’s a new way of buying furniture. A consumer who’s considering a collection has a variety of shapes, dimensions, configurations, colours, finishes and fabrics to chose from. Vendors are creating flexible product-product that reflects individual needs and preferences. That’s the way it works today!

Festive Florals

Think Green
Evergreens and leaves tend to last the longest, so if you're looking for an arrangement to get you through the holiday season, go for something with cypress, branches, woody pears and poinsettias. I used to be against the holiday poinsettia, but done en masse in a row, they can look great.

Pick a scheme
You don't have to colour co-ordinate your arrangements to your home, but look around and see what colour you think would look best. Red and green are the perennial favourites, but this year, try something new: stick to a neutral floral palette, say whites, but shake it up with colourful containers that add to your overall holiday decor.

Size does matter
Figure out an appropriate size in relation to your tables and rooms. Multiple arrangements can look fabulous, but if they're too big, they can overpower a space. One suggestion is to have a single large arrangement that can be placed in an entranceway and three smaller arrangements that can be lined up in a row on a table.

Decoration
Keep in mind that your table decor doesn't have to be completely floral. One arrangement set between two vases full of Christmas balls makes a beautiful holiday statement. Also, festive fruit displayed in bowls is a great way to add fresh decor without the expense of freshly cut flowers.

Care For Your Furniture

Wood and Veneer

• Wood and veneer are affected by light. For the first 6-8 weeks, when the item is first absorbing the surrounding light, keep the surfaces clear of any objects or decorations. It is possible that uneven light absorption could result in permanent marks and circles. At first, new furniture will also need time to absorb light before it will match the tone of your existing furniture
• Water is only to be used in small quantities and only in the form of a damp cloth. After wiping, always wipe dry with a dry cloth
• No polish or oil treatment of any form should be used
• Wood and veneer are very sensitive to liquids. Therefore, wipe up all spilled liquids immediately
• Always try to remove stains with the mildest cleaning materials

Furniture Textiles

• Protect fabric from direct sunlight to prevent color fading
• Regular cleaning: Vacuum frequently and use Textile Cleaner for general cleaning
• stain-cleaning materials should only be used after they have been tested on a small, less noticeable area to check the effect on the material


Leather

• Protect leather from direct sunlight and sources of heat to prevent color fading
• For general cleaning only use a dry soft clot, if necessary, wipe or lightly rub the whole surface with a clean, soft cloth wrung in soapy water
• If vacuum cleaning, use a soft brush nozzle to avoid scratching the surface
• We recommend using Leather Cleaner for cleaning the sofa/chair 2-3 times a year
• We also recommend using Leather Protection before you start using your new piece of furniture and also after use of Leather Cleaner

Upholstery In General

• If possible, switch the seat and back cushions on a regular basis to extend the life of your cushions and to ensure even wear over the years
• Cushions with a filling of foam/fiber should be shaken regularly to ensure form stability
• Expect a 'breaking in' period for your new sofa. The cushion fillings need time and use to stabilize so your cushions will feel smooth and comfortable
• All leathers and fabrics will stretch during use. To achieve best comfort, covers cannot fit too tightly. Therefore, some creasing may occur, but it adds character to the sofa or chair

Holiday Table Setting Ideas

• Start out by picking the theme of your table décor - this will be an extension of the theme you have already selected for your home décor christmas decorations.

TIP ...
Don’t worry if your tableware doesn’t all match. Mixing and matching are hot trends right now. Use the pieces that work the best, and then add accents within your chosen theme and colour scheme.

• Plan to have a signature drink and make it an extension of your themed entertaining décor…..super festive!

• Add themed extras such as thank yous, place card holders and party favours to your holiday event.

A FEW EXTRA TIPS ...

• Add Soft ambient light (whether it be candles, dimmed lights, or even holiday mini-lights) are a quick way to add atmosphere to your table.

• Don’t forget the music. The music you play will definitely set the tone for the evening. Do you want your event to be fun-filled and casual, or refined and elegant? Choose your music accordingly.

AND MOST IMPORTANTLY ...

• Enjoy yourself — don’t plan so much that you can’t enjoy the evening yourself. Prepare as much as possible ahead of time.

October 2008

With fall's warm breezes and clear blue skies, entertaining takes on a whole new look ...

A.

A twig table runner is a casual but interesting alternative to placemats. For an instant place setting, attach a card to a mini pumpkin with rugged twine.

B.

Roll up flatware in seasonal colored napkins tied with twine.

C.

It's easy to maintain a tidy table top by displaying seasonal goodies in hurricanes. Choose combinations of mini pumpkins, pomegranates and nuts, varying the vessel sizes for a dynamic grouping.

D.

Create a warm atmosphere with a grouping of these seasonal candle holders. Fill hollowed out mini pumpkins with floral foam, arranged berries and greenery around the outside, then insert tapers directly into the centre.

E.

When guests arrive, they will love the floral arrangement at your front entrance, either inside or out! Pumpkins make wonderful vessels for fall arrangements. Line a hollowed out pumpkin with a plastic bag before inserting floral foam so that the arrangement lasts longer.

2009 Colour Trends

2009 Hot Colour Trends for Fabrics and Interiors

The Land of Green
Green green green ... whether taking the colour literally or for the “eco-consciousness” that it represents these days, nothing is more powerful that the word “green”. Green creates a feeling of freshness, clarity and aliveness, but when combined with any of the popular clear blues that are prevalent, a feeling of serene peace and the open air is created giving a connection to the outdoors

Where to use it:
Greens are a great choice for kitchens (giving a cooling effect on the hottest room of the house), bathrooms (representing freshness), laundry rooms (adding to clean), and family rooms (offering a feeling of sanctuary).

The new neutrals
The “neutrals” are morphing into a new direction…chalky whites, misty grays, and blue toned muted slates are showing up with combinations of different textures, creating a new sense of lightness and depth. This sophisticated palette conjures up feelings of hope and possibility, with an almost ethereal quality. These shades layered together with a mix of eclectic furnishings, including some modern touches, give an effect of irresistible enlightenment.

Where to use it:
These calming and interesting shades are wonderful for bedrooms (creating a dream like effect), bathrooms (representing hygienic simplicity), kitchens (combining with great stainless appliances gives a crisp worldly look), and living rooms (giving a sense of luminosity and elegance).

Black and white
The still popular combination creates a sense of drama and sophistication in many interiors. The dichotomy of the pureness of white and the formality of black creates a strong energy. The striking look often is accompanied by a jolt of strong colour. The look is often used in modern and or minimalist interiors and is seen with opulent mirrors and accessories.

Where to use it:
This theatrical combination is ideal in kitchens (clearly classic), bathrooms (keeping it pure and simple, and living rooms (encouraging a lively backdrop for conversation and activity).

Rich Brights
Rich reds, lively oranges , bright greens, warm browns and golden yellows are showing up in droves. The infatuation with the warmth and richness of well-rounded colours is in response to the overwhelming existence of technology in our everyday lives….

Where to use it:
These lively shades are perfect for kitchens and dining rooms (stimulating the appetite), as well as living rooms (providing and embracing feeling).

Sitting Pretty

A parking spot for watching TV or a perch for sipping cocktails? A well designed sofa works with your life and sets the tone for the room.

The sofa is usually the dominant piece of furniture in your living room. It's probably the largest piece and will be the focal point for seating. Selecting the right sofa is crucial to a comfortable, stylish room that people will enjoy gathering in. It can be confusing, however, because there are so many styles, textures and sizes available. To make it easier, break down the selection criteria into individual components so that you won't leave anything to chance.

Size
Yes, size matters. It's essential to find a sofa that fits comfortably into the room without overpowering it, yet isn't so small that it feels lost, hanging in the space. Be sure to measure the various locations you're considering - our eye often fools us into thinking our room is larger than it is, and sofas will appear smaller than they really are in the cavernous dimensions of a furniture showroom. Measure! Also think about what you want - an oversized sofa that will envelope you and two or three others, or a compact, cozy loveseat for snuggling?
Also consider the size of the sofa itself – are you looking for a traditional three-person seating arrangement or do you want a sectional? Sectionals offer you versatility - many have a chaise end for lounging and you can rearrange the pieces to fit quickly change the look of the room. A loveseat is ideal for tight spaces, although it will generally hold only two people comfortably.

Style
Classic, contemporary, post-modern and Victorian, the possibilities are endless. Consider the statement you want to make with the sofa. Should it be a relatively neutral backdrop for favorite accent pieces in the room or do you want the sofa itself to make a bold statement? There are dozens of styles to choose from. Generally, the firmer the seat and back, the more formal or modern it will look. Country style and casual sofas will have a more over-stuffed, soft appearance.
Modern sofas run the gamut and often have unexpected elements to give them unique personality and flair. Clean lines and less clutter are common features. You'll also find many modern sofas that are versatile - unusual shapes, spare lines and arms that are metal or no arms at all.
Generally, traditional and Victorian sofas will have a tight, upholstered back (no separate back cushions) and very firm seats. The Victorian or romantic pieces are also often tufted for added interest.
Transitional and casual sofas combine comfort with beauty. You'll find that many of these have either loose backs with separate, unattached back pillows that are shaped to fit, or attached backs with the pillows attached to the upholstered back permanently. You'll also find many that feature a scatter back, where there are more back cushions than seat cushions, usually smaller square ones.

Function
Don't forget about function in the pursuit of the perfect style. Keep in mind what you're going to be using the sofa for - will it be in a formal living room where most people will be sitting attentively, or will there be people lounging on it while watching television? If you'll be doing a lot of reading in it, for instance, you'll want to make sure it has comfortable arms. Do you want something you can take the occasional nap on? Take the time to sit and test the sofas you're considering before you buy.

Construction
This is the most important part of the sofa, yet most people don't take the time to really check out the construction. The frame is key to the comfort, stability and longevity of a good sofa. It might be made of solid wood, engineered wood or steel and the type of construction determines the price range of the sofa. When purchasing a sofa, you should always buy the best possible frame construction that you can afford.
The best frames are of kiln-dried hardwoods to give proper support and prevent warping or cracking. Oak, maple and poplar are excellent choices; try to avoid pines and soft woods. The framing pieces should be at least one inch thick and screwed together, not nailed. You can also find very good frames made from engineered or composite woods, but be careful to ask about their manufacturing process. While very strong and durable, some composite woods are treated with toxic sealants to prevent potential water damage. Avoid particle board frames - they aren't strong and tend to warp.
Steel frames are becoming increasingly popular because they are lightweight and, in some modern styles, can actually be incorporated into the visual appeal of the furniture. These are extremely durable and are often used for sofas with moving parts such as sofas with built-in recliner sections and sofa beds.
There are various spring, webbing and support systems available on the market. They each come with their own pros and cons. It's important to ask questions and be informed on what you're bringing into your space.

Composition
The composition of the sofa refers to the stuffing of the upholstery and cushions. All fillings have their good and bad points, it's largely a matter of personal preference.
High density foam is the firmest choice and will hold up well to wear and tear. It is usually a solid piece and is sometimes wrapped in a polyester foam material to soften edges.
Foam fill is loose foam and will provide a softer seat with "sink in" comfort. Look for fill that is tightly packed.
Down is the most luxurious and costly composition material and is high-maintenance. You'll have to fluff the cushions every day to prevent packing of the down.
A composition blend of down and loose foam is a good balance and will lessen the need for fluffing.

Material, Color and Pattern
The first thing most people will notice is the material and pattern (if any) on your new sofa, and you'll be living with it every day for the next several years. Choose wisely. You may love that deep, vibrant eggplant in the store, but will you get tired of seeing it every day in your living room?
The options are endless - chenille, leather, vinyl, microfiber, velvet and cotton are just a few. Narrow down your choices by considering who, how and when you'll be using the sofa.
For durability and ease of cleaning, consider leather, microfibers and vinyl - particularly if you have children or pets. Leather is a wonderful material for its breathability, supple feel and the many rich colors it now comes in; however, it does come with a price. Microfibers are soft and supple and extremely stain resistant. Vinyl cleans up easily, but it can be sticky on hot days because it doesn't breath.
If you prefer natural fibers, cotton canvas and cotton velvets are a good choice; however, velvet will show wear faster in areas where people sit a lot because the nap will wear off. The cotton canvas will hold up to years of wear. Chenille is another great option – it's durable, comfortable and wears like iron.
The color of your sofa will ground your room. You can either contrast with your walls (for impact) or choose a shade of the same color (for a restful, monochromatic feel). Either will work, but do be aware that the color you choose will, apart from the walls and floor, be the largest block of unrelieved color in the room – you'd better love it.
Make sure that the pattern you choose isn't too distracting or overpowering. While a bold pattern might be great if your room has a few other solid pieces, it may be overwhelming with an oriental rug, patterned drapes and a striped chair. An excellent compromise is a rich tone-on-tone material which will give you depth and interest without being too busy.

Décor Dilemmas……………..part 2

We selected a few common design dilemmas that are often asked of us and thought we would share more of them with you……..

Q. How can I dress up a plain staircase ?

A. Paint the treads and the handrail high gloss black; paint the risers and ballisters white. If you add a carpet runner, leave 3” of stair on either side and install metal rods for extra punch

Q. How do you create a modern design without losing a sense of the past, especially in an area with older homes?

A. Reinterpret traditional design and elements with newer materials. The proportions of the exterior should be inspired by tradition rather than recreate it. By offering modern cues, such as the mailbox or front railing, you provide glimpses of the design inside without being too jarring. Sometimes the street can provide clues as to what to emphasize: the character of the house, openings like windows, and landscaping. Create a transition: the front, which belongs to the streetscape as much to you, should harmonize with its neighbors.

Q. How do you create points of interest or focal points in an open concept space?
A. Group furniture into conversation areas in larger spaces- place sofas and chairs facing one another for an intimate grouping or back to back to create two separate points of view. Anchor one or both ends of a large space with substantial or tall items such as an oversize painting, a mirror or a fireplace with art hung above it.

Measure for Measure: Part 2

Have you ever wondered how high to hang a chandelier or what size of area rug to purchase? If so, our crash course on the rules of proportion and placement in interior design is for you…..

The rules are based on human ergonomics, so following them not only results in harmonious spaces but also helps avoid mishaps…..

DINING ROOM

Place Settings

Optimize comfort and sociability by counting on at least 24" and up to 30" per person along the sides of the dining table and at least 15" between a place setting and the end of the table to accommodate the settings for each head of the table.

Dining Table and Chairs
New furniture generally comes standard sizes, but when pairing mismatched pieces or antiques, keep the following measurements in mind: comfortable dining table heights is 30”, and there should be at least eight inches between the bottom of the table top or table skirt and the top of the chair seats.

Chandelier
Getting chandelier placement right can make all the difference to the ambiance of your dining room. Hang a chandelier so that the bottom is centered 30-36”above the top of the table. Choose one with a diameter that’s at least half the total width of the table

Artwork
The rule of thumb for hanging works of art is that the centre of interest in the picture should be about 60-66 inches from the floor, which is average eye level. In the dining room, art will be appreciated by those seated, so works can be hung a few inches lower.

Area Rug
A dining room area rug should be at least 24” larger than the table on all sides, so that the chairs can be moved in and out without getting caught on the edge of the rug

Sconses
The placement of wall mounted fixtures can vary depending on the room, its furnishings and window placement. Here, the sconses are mounted 10” from the sides of the artwork so as to not crowd it and so that their centres are about 60” from the floor, which works well with the horizon line of the painting.

Centrepiece
A centerpiece should never be so tall that it impedes eye contact between your guests, keep it less than 12”

Measure for Measure: Part 1

Have you ever wondered how high to hang a chandelier or what size of area rug to purchase?

If so, our crash course on the rules of proportion and placement in interior design is for you .

The rules are based on human ergonomics, so following them not only results in harmonious spaces but also helps avoid mishaps.

LIVING ROOM

Rug

A living room area rug should be large enough that the front legs of all the furniture in a conversation grouping are on the rug. There should be 18inches of flooring between the rug edge and the wall.

Side Tables

The heights and depths of either side or occasional tables varies widely, so a good rule of thumb is to match the height and depth of the sofa's arms as closely as possible.

Coffee Tables

The standard height for coffee tables is from 16 to 18 inches, but may go as high as 21 inches. A higher table is a smart choice if you entertain frequently so that guests don't have to bend too much to set down their drinks. But, ultimately, the height of the adjacent upholstered pieces should determine the height of the table. One guideline is that a coffee table should be about the same height or one or two inches lower than the seat height of the sofa. The length of a coffee table should be about two-thirds the length of the sofa (not including arms). The width should be determined by how much room you have between the soft upholstered pieces and the table in your seating arrangement - leave at least 16 inches around each side of the table.

Artwork

Artwork behind a sofa should take up wall space equal to on half to two thirds the sofa's total length. The width of a grouping of works includes the measurements of each piece plus that of the spaces between them. Hang a grouping of pieces with equal space between each frame- two to three inches is best. Ensure that the bottoms of the frames are between eight to twelve inches from the top of the sofa.

BEDROOM

Lamps

If you enjoy reading in bed, choose a bedside lamp that is tall enough so that the bottom of the shade is the same height as your shoulder when you're sitting up in bed. Choose translucent shades so that the light comes through the shade, as well as above and below it, for a soft, romantic mood.

Bedside Tables

The height of the bedside tables should be within a couple of inches of the height of the mattress, which can vary widely depending on the bed frame and the mattress design. Choose tables that have a large enough surface to accommodate a lamp, clock, and a few personal effects, like books, and reading glasses. Place the tables a few inches from the sides of the bed, so that reaching for items on the table is easy but there is sufficient space for bed making.

Look for our "Measure for Measure" part two in next month's newsletter ...

Decor Dilemas

We selected a few common design dilemmas that are often asked of us and thought we would share them with you ...

Q. What is the rule of thumb for hanging drapery rods?

A. They should be about three inches above and beyond the window frame. Be careful about hanging them too high ... when the drapes are open too much wall will be exposed above the window, and the look will be awkward.

Q. How do I determine the right height for hanging a picture on a wall?

A. As a general rule, centre the piece according to average eye level, which is five feet six inches. (If you have cathedral ceilings, you may want to change the rules a bit and hang some pieces a little higher.) The space where the art hangs should also be considered. For example, on a larger wall, smaller picture frames may look best in groupings. If you're creating a photo wall, you may want to mix up the heights of the pictures. These rules are just guidelines, but generally the most common mistake is to hang art too high ... you should look at it, not up to it.

Q. Blinds or Drapery?

A. That depends on your budget, your style, the shape of the window and the amount of light and privacy you need in the room. Generally, the clean look of blinds works well in contemporary spaces, and drapery enhances more traditional looks. But a combination of blinds and framing side panels is also a great look, even in contemporary spaces.

Q. What's the secret to good lighting, and what should be avoided?

A. Lighting should be soft, warm and welcoming. Keep it closer to the perimeter of the room, so it reflects off the walls and/or the ceiling. Dimmer switches are crucial - add them to any overhead lights and pot lights as well. Also use light at different levels by combining table lamps and floor lamps. Avoid any bright, direct downlighting, as it causes heavy shadows and isn't that flattering.

Look for our "Décor Dilemmas" part two in next month's issue ...

Designer Art ... Personalized For You

Want to add a splash of colour or texture to your home?

Each tile is a 5 X 5 canvas (you can customize your size as well) and it is a great and inexpensive way to add "original art" into your home.
Each 5 X 5 canvas retails for $50 and you can choose the colour palette that is right for you.

It is a great idea for smaller unique walls, bathrooms, kids rooms etc.

Arrange the tiles in groups of three, six or nine.Several smaller works of art can pack as powerful a visual impact as a single larger one. The key is to respect the area's proportions.


COME IN AND WORK WITH ONE OF OUR OWN ARTISTS. WE WILL CO-ORDINATE YOUR INTERIOR COLOURS WITH THE PERFECT COMBINATION OF CANVASES TO GET THE PERFECT "DESIGNER ART" FOR YOU!

Secrets to Hanging Art like a Pro!

Forget about ceiling heights
In general, be more concerned with how items relate to those on the ground and how that room will be experienced. In a living room, where you are most often sitting, art should hang in relation to sofas and tables.

Go Low
The most common mistake people make is hanging art too high. The goal of positioning things close to furniture is to allow your eye to join the items so they don't seem to float away.· The bottom of a piece of art should sit about 8"- 10" above a mantle (This space can be adjusted if you have items on the mantle, which will visually add height)· The bottom of a large piece of art or a grouping of pictures should sit about 10" above a sofa. The grouping should be almost as wide as the sofa but never wider · A very large piece should sit so that the centre of the piece is 60-65" off the floor.

Bigger is better
If you are worried about going too small or too big, go for big. It's rare that a piece of art is too large. We tend to play it safe and buy on the small side with the rationale that if it is not enough we can always buy something to add to it ... of course that never works.

Picture Perfect

Choosing art for your home can be both exciting and confusing!
Whether you have just moved into a new home or you just want to make your current house a home, choosing art can be a difficult process.
Below are a few simple tips that can make selecting artwork easier and ultimately more enjoyable;

Connect with It
You have to find art you like! Of course, this might seem obvious, but it can often be left out of the equation when selecting art. Don't be so willing to take other people's opinion of what is "good" and neglect to understand your own. Art is many things to many people, but when choosing how to select it, the piece needs to be yours and yours alone. It should affect you emotionally. Whether the piece inspires you, calms you, excites you or just generally makes you happy, that is where you need to start.

Explore Your Style
Contemporary, Traditional, Country, Modernist, and Exotic, these are a few of the many styles that can be exhibited through artwork. Make sure the art reflects the style and design of your home.

Scale and Proportion
Artwork is an important finishing touch for any interior. Make sure to relate the piece of art to both the scale of the wall as well as to the proportion of your furnishings ... this is a common mistake.



We have great art from 4 local artists. It is continually changing and moving, so make sure you come down and take a look at each artists pieces and see who best suits your style.

Out-Standing Furniture & Fabrics

Beautiful, long-lasting and easy to clean; the new outdoor fabrics make living with children, pets, and even Mother Nature worry free.

Everyone loves to spend time outside. These new fabrics let you bring out your inner sense of style. The tough, long-lasting fabrics handle the worst Mother Nature can give, year after year. From the baking sun to endless rain, furniture featuring Sunbrella fabric looks great in any season, and is backed by the best limited

With the new outdoor fabrics, you don't just pick out a furniture fabric, you choose a lifestyle, which is why the fabrics are designed to support you and your family for years to come.

Wash & Care Instructions - 100% saturated acrylic fabric with a soil and stain resistant finish that makes cleanup a breeze. Sunbrella fabric may be spot washed with a solution of natural soap and luke warm water. Use fabric spot remover for stubborn stains, rinse and air dry.

Design Lesson: Increase Your Living Space

Increase your living space with a well designed outdoor livingroom and dining room. Follow these tips to create the ultimate extension of your lifestyle:

* Do determine the function of each area and furnish accordingly.

* Do design a plan with varied light sources. Lanterns and torches provide general illumination; powerful downlights are good for tables and seating areas. Incorporate decorative lighting, such as uplighting, for sculptural drama and fixed spots for highlighting pathways.

* Do use freestanding furniture that echoes the feel of interior spaces; a buffet or cart for serving and storage.

* Do change flooring materials to define areas, such as dining and sunbathing. Even a slight modification to pattern alerts people to changes in level, which is especially important for seniors and children.

* Don't overlook accessories. No room, indoors or out can be truly personal without valued objects. A stone sculpture, weathered sundial or inviting bird bath will increase the enjoyment you get from your oasis.

* Don't choose delicate furniture unless you have adequate storage that's easy to access. Cast aluminum or teak can remain outdoors year round. Need Inspiration? Come in to Essential Living and experience our 2008 Outdoor Collection.

* Don't leave seating areas exposed to the elements. Incorporate mature planting like tall evergreens or vine covered trellises for privacy, wind blockage and shade. Plant climbing roses, clematis or Chinese wisteria to create a wall of florals.

* Don't ignore the storage potential of built in seating, serving counters and elevated decks. Banquette seating maximizes space and, with extra plump cushions and pillows, is very comfortable and inviting<