New Art Collection

We have 3 great new pieces and 3 gorgeous new triptychs by Robyn Millar and Mandy Coleman.

Thanksgiving Inspired Tables

Without a doubt, fall kicks off the busiest entertaining season of the year with the arrival of Thanksgiving. It’s a wonderful time of year to seek warmth indoors.

Q: What kinds of trends are we seeing when it comes to fall tabletop decor?
A: The idea of ‘back to nature’ is at the top of the list - think of mini pumpkins and gourds, stems of fall leaves - get inspired and creative by looking outdoors!

Q: What colour combinations are hot this year, that can be used when setting your fall table?
A: Fall hues of olive, plum and peacock blues with grey as a neutral is the main colour story this season. Bright oranges, deep reds, muted greens and browns are also great colour choices. More neutral tones layered with white dishes create a rustic or traditional feeling table. For a more urban or formal look, choose deep jewel tones of red, blue and purple used with grey as the neutral.

Q: Are there any new trends in serving ware?
A: In serving ware, the trend is toward the use of bright white dishes in interesting shapes and sizes, with elegant straight lines. For example, consider serving dessert on a long rectangular tray or dinner on a large square plate. From kitchen to table, stylish and practical ovenware, dinnerware and serve ware is being used for everyday and entertaining. There is a trend toward mini-servings in smaller dishes, for example, serving three mini-desserts on a long narrow dish.

Q: How can people keep their entertaining environmentally friendly?
A: Be natural with accents such as using things from your fall garden, use your old dishes but add a few new accents to complement the colour.

Q & A: 2009 Fall Decor Trends

Q: What decor trends are leading the way for fall 2009?
A: Rustic glamour, reclaimed wood furniture mixed with fabulous lucite and chrome accents - design elements that reflect both modern, glamorous pieces mixed with unexpected raw materials like concrete or wood, super tactile, great layering.

Q: What are we seeing when it comes to:
Colour
A: Every shade of white is strong. Grey continues to be a strong colour, with soft mixes of brown, inspired by nature, stone and soil.

Furniture
A: Green is making a play. We're seeing a lot of 60s-inspired lime green, leaf green, muted pastel and earthy tones, but done in luxe fabrics with graphic patterns and lots of texture.

Walls
A: Wallpaper has exploded! Three-dimensional fabric both layered and embellished - everything from glitzy damask’s to fabulous organic birch inspired.

Accessories
A: Again, upscale eclectic chic is evident in accessories. Think: Accessories that incorporate old and new, like an oversized, ornate mirror done in a stunning ornate shiny black laminate frame. Eclectic "found" objects, such as old bottles and curiosities continue to be popular.

Q: Is eco-design/decor still a “trend”? How can people make greener choices for their homes?
A: Yes, I think it has surpassed being a "trend" and become a way of life. People think before they buy. I think it changes how we shop. We ask ourselves what or who was harmed in making a particular product, will it last, will it end up in a landfill? If everyone starts thinking this way, a greener way of life (and probably a more stylish one) will evolve.

New Art Section

As more and more Calgarians turn to us to find that perfect piece of art for their space, we have stepped up to the plate and expanded our art displays as well as introducing this NEW art section in our monthly e-newsletter! Keep up to date every month with our newest artwork, as well as tips, trends and info about our local original artwork.

For our first edition, we are delighted to introduce you to our fabulous artists ...

Annette Sicotte
Annette is our top selling artist. She has consistently been in demand for the six years she has been with us. She has an exquisite eye for colour and detail. Anywhere from abstract to suggestive landscape, if your house is transitional (a mix of modern and traditional) you’ll be sure to find a piece that’s perfect for you.

Robyn Millar
Moving to Calgary from the mountainous terrain of the BC interior, Robyn is inspired by nature and scenery. She is a versatile artist with a broad range of styles, all the way from abstract to realism and landscape. No matter your style you’re bound to find a piece to suit your taste.

Miranda Coleman
Originally from Australia, Miranda now calls Calgary home. With a focus on bold colour and texture, she executes minimalist landscapes and abstracts with ease. Miranda is one of our larger scale painters, so if you haven’t had much luck finding that large high impact piece, be sure to come by and see her work in person.

Pat Wondynski
Pat is the sole artist to work in oil. For the majority of her work she uses a palette knife, creating exquisite patterns and textures to create trees and florals. She is bold when it comes to her use of colour, creating vibrant landscapes and depictions of nature. If you like natural subject matter but are looking for that *pop* of colour, then Pat could be right for you.

Be sure to check every month for features on new work, but if you have any questions in the meantime, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
If you would like to be added to an Art e-mail list, send us an email to design@essentialliving.ca with the subject title as 'Art Email List', to receive exclusive invites to ART nights and updates on your favourite artist or style.

Myths About Exterior Stains

High quality wood stains do not peel
False
Regardless of the product used, if the surface is not prepared properly and the wrong application method is used, it could peel. Whether your wood was previously stained or not, you must start by washing the surface. It is important to remove loose grey wood fibers and stains caused by mildew, dust and moss since these contaminants will keep the stain from adhering properly.

New wood surfaces do not need to be sanded before staining
False
To remove imperfections and prepare wood’s pores to receive stain, the new wood surface must absolutely be sanded using 80 grit sandpaper. On vertical surfaces use 120grit sandpaper for a finer finish. Check that you have sanded enough by sprinkling water on the surface - if it pearls then you must continue sanding, if the water penetrates the wood then the stain is ready to be applied.

Applying stain with a roller is much faster than with a brush
False
Since wood warps with time, it becomes difficult to reach certain areas with a roller. A brush is the best tool for applying stain evenly. There are specifically designed brushes whose length and width allow for quick application. You can also attach the brush to to a long handle so you can work standing up - way more comfortable.

It is better to apply more than the two coats the manufacturer suggests
False
A coating that is too thick compromises one of stain’s main advantages - it's flexibility, which allows it to follow woods movement without cracking or peeling.

Exterior Stain can be applied on any nice summer day
False
If it is warmer than 25C or if the surface to be stained is very hot to the touch, stain will not have time to penetrate the wood deeply or blend with the former stain, which will lead to peeling. As well, if the stain dries too quickly it is difficult to apply and will leave behind brush marks and and uneven look.

Paint Your House: Tips For Choosing Exterior Colors

Here's How:

1. Begin with colors suggested by your roof and masonry. An effective exterior palette consists of three main colors including body, trim and accent colors.
2. Consider the color schemes used inside your home. Exterior colors should harmonize with the interior.
3. Don't clash with your neighbors! Choose colors that coordinate with the buildings around you.
4. Large surfaces make paint look lighter. Consider selecting darker shades - also, colors appear paler outside, therefore always chose final paint colors outside and check them in the morning, noon and especially at dusk - when daylight becomes more purple, taupes can often look pink.
5. Remember that very bright or very deep colors will fade.
6. To emphasize architectural details, outline them with an accent color that contrasts with the background.
7. Use darker colors to emphasize shadows and lighter colors to show projections.
8. Avoid extreme contrasts. Choose colors that are related.
9. You can minimize attention to vents and gutters by painting them the same color as the body of the house or by choosing a trim color that is similar
10. Photocopy a sketch or photograph of your house. Use watercolors or colored pencils to try color combinations.
11. Before buying large quantities of paint, buy quarts of your selected colors and paint one area of your house.
12. Take your time ... be creative ... and have fun!

Tips:

1. The simpler your house, the fewer colors you'll need. For an elaborate Victorian, plan to use four to six colors.
2. Light colors will make your house seem larger. Dark colors or bands of trim will make your house seem smaller, but will draw more attention to details.
3. For some accents, consider using darker or lighter shades instead of changing color.

The Voice of Color:

Picking house paint colors isn't just difficult. It's terrifying! Pick colors that are blah, and your house will seem flat and featureless. But if the colors you pick are too bold, they might overwhelm the architecture... and upset the neighbors.
The best colors will highlight the most beautiful features of your home. Skillful use of color can even disguise design flaws, boosting the curb appeal and market value of your home. How do you find that magic color combination?

Follow these tips:
1. Honor History
If you're planning to paint an older home, you'll probably want to use a historically accurate color scheme. You can hire a pro to analyze old paint chips and recreate the original color. Or, you can refer to historic color charts and select shades that might have been used at the time your home was built.

2. Jazz Up The Past
In some neighborhoods, homeowners fly in the face of history. Instead of choosing historically accurate colors, they paint their houses modern colors to dramatize architectural details. Using bright colors on old architectural details can produce startling and exciting results. But before you buy 10 gallons of bubblegum pink, it's a good idea to look at what your neighbors are doing. A fluorescent colored Victorian that looks splendid in San Francisco will seem wildly out of place in more conservative neighborhoods.

3. Consider Your Neighbors
The house next door can give you paint color ideas, but don't copy your neighbor exactly. Choose colors that set your house apart, without clashing with nearby buildings.

4. Borrow From Nature
The landscape around your house is blooming with color ideas. Trees may suggest an earthy palette of greens and browns. A beach setting might suggest vivid blues, turquoises, and coral colors. Even the garden in your front yard can inspire exciting color combinations.

5. Check The Roof
Your house is your canvas, but it is not blank. Some colors are already established. What color is your roof? Your paint color doesn't need to match the roof, but it should harmonize.

6. Look For Things That Won't Be Painted
Every home has some features that will not be painted. Does your house have brick walls? Vinyl windows? A natural wooden door? Will steps and railings remain their existing colors? Choose a color scheme that harmonizes with colors already present on your house.

7. Find Inspiration In Your Living Room
It may seem comical to paint entire house based on the pattern of a pillow case, but this approach does make sense. The color of your furnishings will guide you in the selection of your interior paint colors, and your interior paint colors will influence the colors you use outside. Once again, your goal is to harmonize.

8. Focus On Details
Depending on the size and complexity of your home, you may want to choose two, three, or as many as six colors. In addition to color for your siding, select accent colors for shutters, moldings, doors, window sashes, brackets, columns, and porch decks. But beware: too many colors will overwhelm your house. Too few can make your house seem flat and uninteresting.

9. Use Light To Add Size
It's no wonder large, grand estates are often painted white. Light colors make a building look larger, and white is the favored color for traditional classical architecture. You can add to your home's sense of size and dignity by using white or a pale cream color.

10. Go Dark For Drama
Dark siding or dark bands of trim will make your house seem smaller, but will draw more attention to details. Darker shades are best for accenting recesses, while lighter tones will highlight details that project from the wall surface. On traditional Victorian homes, the darkest paint is often used for the window sashes.

11. Discover Color Families
Contrasting colors will draw attention to architectural details. But, extreme contrasts will clash and actually detract from details. To be safe, consider staying within a single color family. For some accents, try using a darker or lighter shade instead of a different color.

12. Strike A Balance
A burst of a single color on just one part of your home may give it a lopsided appearance. Strive to balance colors over the entire building.


You thought you only had to pick colors?
Sorry! Here are a few pointers to keep in mind as you choose paint for your house painting project.

House Paint Durability
The more intense a color, the more likely it is to fade. After a few years, vivid blues and deep reds might seem more subdued. Dark colors can also pose more maintenance problems. Dark colors absorb heat and suffer more moisture problems than lighter shades. And because dark paint fades, it can be difficult to match exactly when you do small touch-ups. But, don't rule out dark colors. They won't show dust and stains, and can give your house a sense of dignity or drama.

House Paint Sheen
House paint comes in several sheens, ranging from glossy to flat. The glossier the surface, the more likely it is to show imperfections, brush strokes and touch up marks. On the other hand, glossy surfaces are easier to clean. Many homeowners opt to use flat paint for walls and semi-gloss or glossy paint for columns, railings and window sashes.

Paint Color Deceptions
Color swatches look very different when they are brought out of the store and viewed in natural sunlight. Also, colors appear lighter on large surfaces than they do on small samples. Chances are, you'll need a much darker color than the one you first picked. Always test your selected color in one area before buying gallons of paint.

Create the Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen

There are few things in life more enjoyable than an outdoor cookout, especially when it takes place in the comfort of your very own backyard. Most open air chefs simply get used to running back and forth between the outdoor barbecue and the indoor fridge, arms laden with condiments, utensils and essentials such as refreshing libations. However, outdoor kitchens, which are fast becoming a popular modern day home splurge, can change lives. These sophisticated al fresco dens of culinary mastery can transform your yard into the envy of the neighbourhood and add a new dimension of living space to your home.

Outdoor Essentials: Outdoor space is becoming more and more popular as people give up their dream of exorbitantly-priced waterfront property. Some opt for an outdoor cooking product like the GE Monogram Gas grill with stainless steel storage doors, and build that into an island, with a dual burner cook top, and an outdoor refrigerator. Stainless steel gas grills provide added convenience because they allow for big batch cooking – perfect when you're attempting to cook steaks for a group – and they're all-season weather resistant to boot. It's also possible to upgrade to natural gas models, which can be hooked directly into your home's natural gas supply and mean no more empty propane tank blues!

Hot Stuff: True heat seekers can pony up for infrared barbecues (Solaire, TEC and Napoleon make quality models) which heat up at warp speed and can produce the perfect steak in six minutes flat. Large, multi-burner infrared units generally cost at least two to three thousand dollars, but smaller, portable versions of these cutting edge cookers are available for a fraction of that price. Outdoor aficionados can also purchase smokers and wood burning ovens (perfect for pizza!) to augment their outdoor digs.

Cooling it Down: Drinks, marinated meats, salads and condiments can be conveniently kept on hand with outdoor refrigerators that are designed to stand up to the elements. Kitchen Aid and GE both make these.

Room to Work: Cabinetry, storage and work space are also essential to a complete outdoor kitchen, but not just any old materials will do. We obviously have a punishing climate for outdoor materials, so be sure that you're using something that will stand the test of time. Standard kitchen cabinetry will simply not be enough to withstand the elements if used out-of -doors. You need something that won't crack, split, warp or rot when exposed to wind, rain, cold and heat. Polymer is a wise choice of medium for cupboards, and stone or brick make good island bases.

Getting the Job Done: Before leaping into your outdoor kitchen project headfirst, take the time to consider materials and execution. In terms of eating areas and patios, cedar makes a great addition to any backyard space - its moth-repelling properties are well known, and it smells great.

Backyard Furnishings: Choose outdoor furniture with as much care as you choose your outdoor kitchen appliances. Make sure table tops can stand up to hot plates being placed on them – you don't want to have to be as fussy outdoors as you are inside. Invest in a few extra chairs, too, since your backyard haven is sure to have guests flocking to your place for dinner parties under the sun and stars. Also, consider an extra sets of affordable cutlery, plates and culinary utensils so that cooking outdoors doesn't mean emptying out your indoor kitchen.

Divine Details: Little extras can't hurt when designing what will undoubtedly become the icing on your cake. Consider retractable canopies to provide shade from the sun and umbrella shaped outdoor propane heaters, portable backyard fire pits or chimneys to heat things up when the sun goes down. If your pocketbook can handle it, go big with a custom built outdoor fireplace, and make sure your are wired for sound and your luxurious little getaway spot will be complete.

5 Common Landscaping Mistakes And How To Solve Them ...

Summer is the time for home improvement projects to move outside. But in the rush to get something started, good planning and design can be left behind.
Landscaping projects can be perfect for the do-it-yourselfer. Plantscaping work doesn't require a building permit, and there are endless resources available to help with the design and construction of decks, patios, pergolas, and screened porches. The key is planning, and that's where a design professional can be a valuable partner in helping prevent costly mistakes.
The same planning oversights seem to happen over and over again - the following is a list of common outdoor living space mistakes, and how to avoid them:

Problem #1: Lack of an overall landscaping plan. Like any other design project, a good landscape considers the entire environment. It isn't uncommon to see a landscape begin with one style in the front yard, and finish with a completely different style by the time the work gets around to the back. A chaotic and disconnected landscape is the result if a coherent plan isn't prepared up front.
Solution: Start with an overall plan for the whole environment - including what not to do and where not to do it - and implement it in stages as time and budget permit. Even if the design evolves as it's executed, a clear road map will assure that a consistent character is maintained throughout.

Problem #2: Decks and patios are undersized. A sense of scale is hard to grasp without the familiar architectural landmarks of walls, doors, and furniture. A deck or patio may seem quite large when it's laid out and built, but it's often too small once tables and chairs are in place. If a deck or patio is too small to move comfortably around in, it won't get used.
Solution: Arrange all of the table, chairs, benches, or other furniture on the ground first, and then plan the space around them. Leave at least three feet from the edge of a table to the nearest edge of the hardscape element. Plan several smaller, connected areas for each outdoor activity or furniture arrangement and use a variety of materials; combine a wood deck with a brick patio, for example.

Problem #3: New plants are not thriving. A source of much gardening frustration is that beautiful flowering plant that looked so nice at the nursery, but never took hold at home.
Solution: Choose plants that are appropriate for the regional climate and the microclimate of your yard. Don't assume that every plant for sale in the nursery is automatically appropriate for your yard, or even for your part of the country. Many common plants are very sensitive to the amount of light and water they receive, and to the quality of the soil. Too many amateur landscapers choose plants strictly on looks without giving proper consideration to suitability.

Problem #4: Underestimating the cost of the project.
Solution: Start with a rule of thumb - for a new house, it takes a landscape budget of about 10% of the cost of the construction of the home to install a fully developed outdoor environment. For more budget-minded projects, establish your spending limits first, and then concentrate that budget on one or two areas of the landscape. You'll get much more enjoyment from smaller areas of high quality than you will from cheap work spread over the whole landscape. Determine which parts of the landscape are the most permanent and implement those projects first. Build the decks and patios now and add the plantings later.

Problem #5: All available options not considered.
Solution: Your ability to visualize creative solutions is limited by your experience. Just seeing a wide variety of landscape designs can open your eyes to new possibilities for your yard. Go to backyard garden tours, walk public gardens, hit the home and garden shows, and visit your local library. Ask your landscape professional for tours of projects similar to yours. You'll be surprised by the variety of creative solutions you'll find.

Arranging a Bookshelf

Be consistent
• Consistency is one of the keys to an organized and structured looking bookshelf.
• Line up books by height from tallest to shortest, this will help to create a nice flow.
• Group together books that are similar in colour, tone or texture such as leather bound books.

Establish contrasts
• Accessories add a great contrast to books on your shelves…..the height and shape of the accessory displayed should differ from the height of any given row of books.
• Accessories with a metallic finish or round shapes often add the right amount of contrast that helps create a clean look.

Balance horizontal and vertical
• Harmonious arrangements give equal importance to horizontal and vertical visual lines.
• Relieve the repetitive verticality of row upon row of books by laying a few books on their sides. This will have the added bonus of creating small raised areas on which to place accessories.

Work in layers
• Add visual interest by having art on the shelves as well. the art will be small and scaled down to the size of the shelves. This will add another wanted texture to your shelving unit.

Start small
• When getting started on your shelving arrangement, it helps to envision the overall effect.
• Start by arranging one shelf located at eye level and continue from there.
• Remember to step back and make sure the entire arrangement is working together.

Buying Bedding 101

All bedding photos above are from one of our many fantastic bedding lines!

When spring finally arrives one of our first thoughts is to refresh pieces of our bedding…you can certainly achieve this buy purchasing great seasonal accent cushions. But for those of you who need new bedding or know someone who does, here is some great information for you to make the right decision ... Have you ever wondered what makes one thread count better than another?If you’ve ever walked into a store and found yourself in a state of confusion? This article is for you:
Although we all want great looking, well co-ordinated bedding, that’s only one part of the equation. We want to help you select which bedding is right for you and your needs.

The Truth About Thread Count Thread count measurements are simple: the higher the count, the softer the sheet. This count is measured by the amount of horizontal and vertical threads used in one square inch of the material. The count can range from as low as 80 to up to 800, but for most sheets, you’ll find the count ranging from 180 to 320. Other materials such as flannel, linen or jersey have lower thread counts, but the appeal of these is related to the unique feel of the fabric. High thread count sheets may be considered “higher quality” but that doesn’t guarantee that they’ll last longer. For the best wear-and-tear type sheets, a cotton blend with a 180-200 thread count is a good choice.

Cotton Questions Most linens today are made from various cotton blends. The cotton/polyester blend is a popular one for affordability and because it wrinkles less than other sheets. Egyptian cotton has a reputation as one of the most luxurious, soft and durable options, but it is much more expensive. It’s important to look at the labels of both Egyptian and Pima cotton to determine just what percentage of this high-quality cotton is actually in the sheet. Sateen sheets are made from 100% cotton with a satiny finish, and are also considered quite luxurious, with thread counts going up to 800. Coming in a range of designer colors, these sheets can have a slippery feel. Part of this comes from the different structure in the weaving process, although this does make them somewhat less durable. On the whole, cotton or cotton blends are a good solid bet if you’re looking for a nice, comfortable, durable sheet.

Fun with Flannel and Silk Sheets In the cold weather, what better way to cosy up in bed than with soft flannel sheets? Made from a wool textile and cotton blend, flannel can also come in a range of thread counts although many manufacturers will not print this count, feeling it is less applicable to the material. While flannel makes for a great, hearty winter sheet, it isn’t a recommended choice for the heat of summer or for use in warmer houses. Silk is more than just a decadence: it is a fabulous, breathable fabric that pulls moisture from your body in the summer, and holds in body heat in the winter. Hypoallergenic, silk ranges in durability and is naturally fire retardant. The downside is that silk should be hand-washed for the first few times and air dried, but for environmentally-friendly folks, this is a benefit.

Pillow Talk Pillows really are about personal preference and last on average around 18 months. The size of the pillow often reflects the size of the bed — twin pillows for twin beds, queen pillows for queen and so forth. As well, some pillows are flatter while others are fatter, which is all about personal taste: back sleepers would do better with a flat pillow, while side sleepers need something fatter that offers more neck support. Cheaper pillows work well for decoration, while the more expensive ones are ideal for sleeping. The filling of your pillows also plays a role: foam holds a better, firmer shape, while the softness of down pillows allows your head to sink into them. The downside of down and feather pillows is the allergenic element which is something to keep in mind, even when the label reads “hypoallergenic.” Consider hypodown pillows which are specially processed to be hypoallergenic. None of these feather options are dust-mite free, however, and should all have special casing. Pure wool pillows are an expensive option as a down alternative. Polyester pillows are the happy medium between foam and down.

Comfort from Duvets and Comforters Duvets originated in Europe as a soft, flat bag filled with down or feathers and used as a blanket. Duvets and duvet covers are incredibly popular and come in a range of designs. Most duvets are filled today with a duck down/feather combination, with goose feathers being a more expensive option. The higher the quality, the less likely the duvet will “leak” feathers. There are now also duvets that come in synthetic alternatives as well. In order to preserve them, duvets filled with natural materials are not washed, which is why they come with washable covers that act as giant pillowcases. Comforters are thicker blankets filled with artificial materials such as polyester batting and tend to stretch down the sides of the bed, unlike duvets. They do not require their own cover as they usually come with a design and are washable. Quilts are traditionally layers of quilted fabric over thin batting. Your blanket preference is entirely personal, but keep in mind the temperatures of your home environment before you make your choice. Stick with lighter layers like cotton or sateen for a warmer home and duvets and comforters in flannel and cotton blends for cooler homes. Silk does double duty, as it’s comfortable in any atmosphere.

Finding the Right Choice for You Consider all the elements before you rush into buying your bedding. After all, while the notion of silk sheets seems greatly appealing, if you’ve got five kids and a laundry list a mile long, it might make more sense to choose something lower maintenance. Throwing a duvet over a bed is a much easier than working with layers of blankets and sheets. All these little factors such as sleep patterns, convenience, durability, comfort and more, come into play when you’re picking your bedding. So while that particular design may be gorgeous, make sure the rest of the elements match up to your own personal needs.

Refresh, Renew, Redecorate

Get Organized!

Create a space that's beautiful and reflects who you are so that you feel at home with these home organizing tips.

• Pantry: Stock your pantry by grouping like items together. Choose a shelf or an area for each category.
• Bulk shopping: If you buy in large quantities, create a warehouse “area”. This can be in the garage, in a spare closet or simply on the top shelves of your pantry. Instead of stuffing multiple items in every spare nook and cranny in your home making it nearly impossible to find anything, store the extras in one place and transfer them into your home as needed. When you see that you’re getting low on an item in your warehouse, add it to your shopping list.
• Paper systems: Have a plan for handling the paper that comes into your home. The key is to create an area to receive bills or any other important papers and stick to it. Recycle unnecessary or old paper immediately.
• Children’s paperwork: Create a “station” by the phone or a computer for often-used school information or schedules. Sign and return school papers immediately so they don’t get lost. Art projects go into a large box or stored in archival boxes.

When you think of your daily activities recognize that you most likely have some systems already in place. Consider adding new systems to those areas in your life that feel overwhelming.

Eco Friendly Offices

Often the most wasteful room in the house, follow these simple tips to make your workspace more eco-friendly and green.

From solar rooftops to kitchen composting to bamboo flooring, Canadian homes are rapidly changing to become more sustainable, more eco-friendly, energy-efficient and less toxic places.

But step into the home office and behold: cultural devolution! Computers and gadgets stay on day and night; toxic batteries, ink cartridges and old electronics get thrown into the garbage and pretty paper made from old growth forests lands itself in the printer.

We tend to fall off the green living and eco-friendly wagon when it comes to our home offices. On the whole, the trend of home offices is good from an environmental perspective: it eases gridlock and brings balance and common sense back into our lives.

But the power demands of home computers, internet, cellphones, printers, fax machines and myriad other home office materials still take their toll.

Everyday Green Living

There are many ways to adopt a more eco-friendly lifestyle, and the best place to start is your very own home.
Follow these easy eco tips that you can share with the whole family.
Water:
Conserving water is important - but so is protecting it from contamination. Purifying contaminated water can be difficult and very often results in wasted water.

To keep the water supply clean:
· Cut down on the amount of household chemicals you use and dispose of the ones you do use at local drop-off centres.
· Use biodegradable products whenever possible. Especially avoid using chemical pesticides and fertilizers outdoors.
· Store garbage properly and clean up paint or other chemical spills right away.
· Keep your vehicles in good working order, so leaking oil or gas doesn't make its way into the water supply.

To save water:
• Shorten your shower time to about six minutes, and, if you choose to have a bath, only fill the tub halfway.
• Never leave the tap running while brushing your teeth, shaving or lathering up during hand washing.
• Never throw garbage, such as tissues, paper towels or cigarette butts, in the toilet and flush. This wastes several gallons of water.

Energy:
• Saving energy also means saving money, which is just another good reason to be kind to the environment. To save energy in your home:
• If planning on purchasing new appliances look for Energy Star models. These are high quality, widely available and some municipalities even offer a rebate incentive if you buy them.
• Only run your dishwasher when it’s full, and use the air dry setting rather than drying them with heat.
• Most of the energy used to wash clothes is wasted on heating the water. When possible, use cold water. Try a cold water detergent for best results.
• Install a programmable thermostat and lower your thermostat a few degrees at night or when you’re not home during the day.
• Apply sealant or caulking around doorframes and windows to prevent warm air from leaking out in the winter and hot air from getting in during the summer.

Air Quality:
The quality of your air is directly related to the products you use. Synthetically scented products are rarely environmentally friendly and could even contribute to asthma and other respiratory disorders. To improve the air quality in your home:
• Use detergent and water instead of harsh disinfectants which tend to give off noxious fumes.
• Select unscented cleaning products, or go natural and clean with baking soda, vinegar and castile soap. These products often work better than commercial cleaning products!
• Avoid the use of aerosol sprays of any kind.
• Don’t use air fresheners. These products often contain harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde and phthalates. Recent studies have also found that air fresheners release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air - especially plug-in air fresheners containing pinene and d-limonene.
• Eliminate the need for deodorizers in your home by taking the garbage out daily. Rinse packaging and wrappers before throwing them in the garbage and freeze perishable wastes such as meat and fish scraps until garbage collection day.
• As an air freshener alternative, try burning a few drops of natural essential oil in a clay infuser.

Waste:
In the age of recycling and ‘green’ bins, it just doesn’t make sense to produce a lot of waste. Here’s how to cut your garbage output down:

• Find out which plastics are accepted in your city’s recycling bins and don’t purchase plastic products that aren’t
• Head to the grocery store with a handful of reusable cloth grocery bags.
• Buy in bulk when possible. Store bulk food in reusable containers.
• Buy high quality, durable items. Don’t make unnecessary purchases.
• If your municipality has a composting program, participate by using your green bin or bag daily. You can also compost and use your own organic matter – and your garden will look gorgeous!

In the age of recycling and ‘green’ bins, it just doesn’t make sense to produce a lot of waste. Here’s how to cut your garbage output down:

• Find out which plastics are accepted in your city’s recycling bins and don’t purchase plastic products that aren’t
• Head to the grocery store with a handful of reusable cloth grocery bags.
• Buy in bulk when possible. Store bulk food in reusable containers.
• Buy high quality, durable items. Don’t make unnecessary purchases.
• If your municipality has a composting program, participate by using your green bin or bag daily. You can also compost and use your own organic matter – and your garden will look gorgeous!

Show Mother Earth You Care

You don't have to build a straw-bale house from scratch to show Mother Earth you care. Turning your home into a haven of environmentally conscious design is doable if you take a gradual approach.

Here are 10 small ways to make your home and the planet a more beautiful place to live:

Color Your World Green
Freshen up your walls with eco-friendly paint. The volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in conventional paints are bad for your health and contribute to global warming, so opt for low-VOC or VOC-free lines instead. Companies are becoming wise to the growing desire for eco-friendly paints and are producing low-VOC brands such as Benjamin Moore's Ecco-Spec brand, while others such as Pittsburgh Paint's PPG Pure Performance brand contain no VOCs at all. Other options: milk and biodegradable paints, which are nontoxic, and recycled paints, which reduce landfill waste.

Go Au Natural
If privacy isn't an issue, leave your windows unadorned. The airy look lets in light, which can warm a cold room, and also means you have one less item to dispose of when a drapery style becomes passé. If direct sun makes the room too hot or you're feeling shy about naked panes, select window treatments that are made of natural textured materials, like linen, bamboo or seagrass.

Say No to PVC
Instead of buying a vinyl shower curtain, choose a cloth one. The polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in most plastic varieties emits carcinogens (bad for your health) and is non-biodegradable (bad for the earth). If you're about to embark on a bathroom reno, consider designing a shower area with a glass door or partition, so you don't need a curtain at all.

Watch What You Toss
Take eco-friendly waste disposal beyond the recycling bin and compost heap: keep your renovation garbage and old furniture out of landfill. First, consider reusing items: Do you need new cabinets or just doors? How about reupholstering that chair instead of discarding it? If you can't use an item, donate it to a charity or used-building-materials supplier like Habitat for Humanity's ReStores. For unwanted refuse, it's surprising what's recyclable these days: most metals and plastics, yes, but did you know asphalt shingles, concrete and sometimes even drywall can find new life? Contact your local sanitation department to find out more.

Grow Your Decor
Not only does a little greenery make a room look more homey and lived-in, but plants also filter out harmful airborne chemicals. Add palms, ferns or potted gerbera daisies, which all have high ratings for their ability to remove chemical vapours, throughout your home and you'll find you'll breathe easier.

Tread Softly
Chemical dyes, stain-resistant treatments and heavy-duty adhesives in some carpets off-gas harmful toxins. Instead of noxious pile, roll out alternatives like sisal, seagrass or coir (made from coconuts), or rugs with recycled content. Carpet tiles are a smart choice, too: you can replace only the worn or stained sections, reducing the amount that goes to landfill.

Sleep Soundly
Ever wake up feeling a little stuffy? Your bed could be the culprit. To alleviate the problem, choose bedding made of organic cottons or linens; they're harvested responsibly and expose you to fewer allergy-inducing chemicals than ordinary cotton or wrinkle-free sheets. When it's time to replace your mattress, purchase an all-wool or natural latex model.

Furnish With Care
More retailers are taking up the cause, making it easier to find earth-friendly furniture. Look for pieces containing reclaimed wood or wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), and organic fabric and upholstery fill. Avoid particleboard, plywood and other wood composites, which often contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde. Durability is also important—the better the construction, the less likely it will be tossed out adding to landfills. Also consider buying local furniture (which reduces transportation). Buying from nearby vendors will support the local economy and small craftspeople.

Lighting
CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps) are a great alternative to traditional lighting because they use less energy and last a lot longer. The fact that they release less heat also means lower bills. LEDs (light-emitting diodes) are another lighting option. They last even longer than CFLs and use even less heat. Both options are more expensive than regular lighting (with CFLs being more reasonable than LEDs), however as they become more prevalent in the marketplace their price point continues to drop.

Lay Down Friendly Floors
There are plenty of options underfoot; for instance, salvaged wood has a beautiful patina, and fast-growing bamboo comes in a variety of looks to suit different tastes. For new wood flooring, look for FSC-certified products. Other options: sustainably harvested cork, polished concrete, stone, recycled-glass tiles or old-fashioned linoleum.

Bamboo
Who knew that that a towering tropical stalk could prove to be such an extraordinary eco-chic material? Bamboo is the darling of the green design world, and its star deserves to shine that brightly because it grows at lightning speed and can be used in a variety of ways. It takes about 4 years to grow, as opposed to trees that can take anywhere from 25 to 70 years. And, although it isn’t wood (bamboo is actually a grass that grows in China), it can be turned into ply boards that match the properties of conventional wood. It can also be spun into fabric for upholstery.

Sustainable Forest Wood ...
If bamboo isn’t your thing you can use traditional wood furniture, but take an interest in where that wood comes from. We all know about the benefits trees provide: they keep the earth cool and they turn our carbon dioxide into much needed oxygen. So, why do we keep chopping down these wonder workers at such an alarming rate? When purchasing wood furniture, look for items that are specifically produced by sustainably harvested forests. Better still, try purchasing items that are made from reclaimed wood which makes use of wood from old furniture and houses.

Eco Chic Design Style

Eco Chic Design Style
The most current design styles have always reflected what has been happening in the world ... whether it's be the fun and liberated look of the 60's or the cool slick modern of the later 90's these looks were always infuenced by the events going on in the world.
The newest look is certainly not one born out of trends but stems more out of a global concern.
Eco Chic has been fast becoming the look of the moment as the awareness of environmental issues grows. As with every previous decade designers and shoppers are eager to get them homes to fit in with the world around them. Going green has certainly not taken anything away from style. This current look has in fact challenged designers, manufacturers, suppliers and the consumer to think outside the box on how to keep style high and mother earth even closer. “Eco Chic”is all about bringing the outdoors in but also keeping it as natural and environmentally conscious as possible ... but it isn’t really just about the look, sure it's about mixing natural materials in a sleek and sophisticated way. But it's also about being responsible about the things we bring into our home. There is a responsibility that exists in all of us, weather consumer or designer, manufacturer or supplier. We should not only feel responsible but also proud to choose products that are designed to help conserve our planet, and with this new Eco Chic trend there's no fear that we can do it in high style

Sectional Couch Options

Sectional couches consist of two or more separate parts that can be joined together to create the perfect piece for your space.

We have many fantastic sectional options which we are happy to say are Canadian made and some are actually manufactured in Calgary (from a company that has been in business for decades). If you don't find the style/fabric/leather you want on our showroom floor, come in and let us help you select your own custom piece or you can visit our suppliers showroom to "test out" the piece that is just right for you and your family.

Discover the Paint Color Trends for 2009

Color style for 2009 draws inspiration from both nature and nurture. With increasing numbers of homeowners remaining in place, many are searching for options to refresh and reinvigorate their living spaces. By simply changing the paint color in a room, all spaces in the home become reinvention candidates. Key drivers for 2009 color choices include aspirations that create a comfortable and tranquil home environment coupled with a return to authentic and sustainable materials. In contrast, lively color use and bold patterns will find their place as an alternative to more sedate living areas.

Menswear
Like a warm argyle or paisley sweater, consumers increased their yearning for artisanship and authentic materials like those found in "Menswear". Menswear allows for a more traditional use of hues than recently seen such as navy blue, "leather like" brown and rich grey. Color recommendations: Grey, Navy Blue, Brown and Black Decorative effects: Argyle, Herringbone and Pinstripes .

Weather or Not!
Our eco-consciousness continues to expand and "Weather or Not!" glances upward for inspiration. This palette takes a cue from the continually changing skies and provides the homeowner with colors represented at sunrise or sunset resulting in a shift from the more expected botanical hues. Color recommendations: Dusty purple, deep blue, bronze metallics and rosy pink Decorative effects: Large, dramatic geometric patterns incorporating metallic finishes.

What's in Bloom?
Consumers increased desire for healthy and sustainable locally grown fruits and vegetables provides fresh inspiration for "What's in Bloom". Another twist on the "green" movement, is inspired by fresh hues including citrus green, mango and lemon yellow. Not just a one season offering, "What's in Bloom" also derives inspiration from fresh fall produce such as pumpkin orange and apple red. "What's in Bloom" is ripe for use in a child's bedroom, playroom and kitchens. Use in closets and pantry areas to provide an unanticipated pop of color.

Color Recommendations
Citrus Green, Mango, Apple Red, Lemon Yellow and Pumpkin Orange Decorative Effects: Black as an accent color on trim or doors provides an interesting and unexpected frame for the What's in Bloom color palette. quick colour information ...

Gray will act as an important neutral in both residential and commercial spaces. Intense colors will tone down to more restrained and elegant shades -Reds and Oranges will have a yellow undertone (the undertone is really important when choosing paint colors!) -Blues will have a slight undertone of violet (in other words, they will lean more purple) -Yellows and greens will be more yellow-based (think avocado), and some will have a touch of blue, too (think green gemstone shades). Neutrals will be inspired by nature such as stone, wood, and natural textiles like linen. Grays will range from light to dark and be utilized as a main neutral, with a touch of brown, that ever popular “natural neutral”. To picture gray-brown, think about a set of French Gray markers. In French Gray, brown is used to warm up the color (as opposed to a Cool Gray, which is blue based).

New Year, New Beginnings ...

Economy Friendly Decorating

With a few simple strategies and some great creativity, we as Interior Designers, are experts at finding cost-effective ways to take your house to a home.
Our goal is to produce the type of decorating style and atmosphere you want; for a more attractive home design; one that will fit within your budget – large or small.
An interior design consultant can help steer you in the right direction when it comes to color scheme and fabric selection. Or when deciding how to rearrange furniture; for optimal visual effect, ease of movement, and to enhance room use.

Some Designer Tips:

Decorating is an act of passion, not just pulling out your wallet - so don't worry if your budget's a little tight. Here are our tips for decorating on a budget. You'll love the results ...

1 Train your eye: Know what great high end design pieces look like so that you can have them in mind while hunting for just the right piece within your budget and remember, if you don’t see it on our floor, just ask us - our boutique is just a small showroom for all of the pieces we bring in for our clients.

2 Be patient: Wait for floor sample sales (usually July and/or January) to get the piece you really want. Don’t feel like you have to race to finish your space. You want to find the right thing at the right price, not just anything at the right price…

3 Spend some money: All on-the-cheap rooms just look cheap, not chic. Every room needs a few splurges - special pieces that announce their quality. Decide what “splurge” means to you and do it!

4 Go big with accessories: Many tiny items make a place look cluttered and inexpensive. Instead opt for important accessories like standing floor vases, plump floor cushions, pillar candles rather than tea-lights.

5 Use texture: Combine shiny, matte, soft and rough natural textures to add richness to a space. Sparkle always adds a dash of glamour.

6 Don't scrimp on the size of your area rug: Many nice rooms are ruined by the use of a postage-stamp sized rug. Can't find one big enough and don't want to spend the earth: go to a broadloom store and order a piece to be cut and bound (choose a sisal look-a-like in wool or synthetic fibre).

7 Decorate with black and white: Just like with fashion, these colours (or non-colours) never look tired and combined can result in dramatic spaces that look like their total price tag was much higher that the actual cost. It is also easy to add cushions or other accessories in seasonal bold colours to make the look your own.

8 Buy gutsy lamps: Lighting is often an after-thought when decorating on a budget but spindly, too-small lamps are a common faux-pas. Instead, layer your lighting (overhead, task, ambient), switch bulbs to halogen or natural daylight bulbs and buy lamps that have a sculptural appeal.

And remember ...

• Pace yourself; accept the fact you won’t be able to get it all done at once.
• Set a budget limit and target date for project completion; this will help avoid the tendency to keep adding to the room design, increasing overall cost.
• Concentrate on one area at a time. For instance, a single room decorating project, instead of the house as a whole.
• Have a clear cut idea of the type décor and design you want; including color scheme, decorating theme, and the type mood you want to create.
• Look at the contents of each room with a fresh eye. Sometimes by keeping and rearranging base pieces of furniture and adding a few new accessories, the desired effect can be achieved.
• When redecorating, don’t over do it. Keep in mind the main function of the room; select a style, and stick to it.
• New wall paint and wallpaper are both cost effective ways to improve home interior design.
• Accessory items (such as a wall mirror, pictures, decorator throw pillow, vases and lamps) are quick, economical decorating solutions to brighten a room for a more modern home design.