Creative Container Garden Design - Getting Started

A great way to get the ideas for your container garden flowing is to sit down with pen and paper. Draw a layout/placement of your container garden. Draw an arrangement of planters and think about size, height and color. Next, envision the types of plants you would like to see in these planters in the arrangement you have drawn.

1. Draw your container garden space: how much floor space and how much vertical space, such as walls, railings or fences is available? If your site includes a balcony or porch, is weight a consideration? Think about the different views you have of your container garden space, from inside your home, from your yard, from the street. What would you like to see from each view? Foliage and greenery-colorful flowers. Do you have a view you would like to screen out? Is creating privacy a goal?

2. Identify the growing conditions of your site: Is it shady and protected or sunny all day long? If you have a variety of light conditions, mark your diagram accordingly. Is your site exposed to wind or heavy rain? Make a note and plan for stable planters with strong, wind-resistant plants.

3. Choose a container garden style or theme: Before you find yourself standing in the nursery and completely overwhelmed by a large variety of beautiful plants, have your garden style or theme decided and bring your garden plan with you. Container garden styles can be based on a specific combination of plant colors, or a single color, or a type of plant, for example, annuals, herbs or shrubs or a single favorite plant such as geranium or lavender.
A container garden theme might also be based on the planter material, for example all metal planters, or wooden planters. Do you like a formal, neat and 'cintrolled' looking container garden, or do you like a less tidy, more natural character to your garden planters? It's a great idea to have a browse through a few container gardening books or magazines to discover what appeals to you.

4. Now consider the plants for your container garden: Stand back and imagine your container garden plants after a month, two months ... their eventual height, shape and growth habit. How full do you want your container garden to be. What height would be pleasing in your site. Consider plants exhibits three forms: upright, broad or trailing.
Start with a focal point, perhaps a tall, bold plant - then plant your containers around this centerpiece. Or you could focus attention on a trailing form and plan around that ...
A common approach is to combine the three forms, upright, broad and trailing, in one pot. Start with a tall, upright plant, such as spiky New Zealand flax or a fancy-leaved canna lily. Add one or two broad, mid-height plants such as heliotrope, coleus, African Daisies (Osteospermum) or dwarf dahlias. Then select a trailing form such as ivy geranium, bacopa or lobelia.
Indicate where your plants will be located in your garden space on your diagram, make a note of the color of flowers and foliage and take this drawing with you to your nursery. Plan several trips through the growing season to find plants to freshen and at interest to your garden planters.

5. Include something for all the senses: In addition to being a visual pleasure, your container garden can provide enjoyment in so many ways. Fragrant flowers, shrubs and vines can make a visit to your garden, small or large, a great sensory experience. The gentle rustling of tall grasses on your balcony with a warm summer breeze can soothe tired nerves. The sound of hummingbirds making a quick visit to your hanging baskets will be a thrill-both the sound and the sight! And the pleasures of a herb or vegetable container garden, or edible flowers (grown from seed ) in a floral display, extend all the way into the kitchen.

Creative Container Garden Design

Grouping of Containers

Grouping containers together creates good visual impact. Always group them in uneven numbers, i.e. 3, 5 or 7. Create a pleasing effect by grouping small, medium and large containers together.

Focal Point
• Do not create too many focal points when you design gardens. This creates too many distractions and disrupts the flow of the garden. Use one large container, or a specific group of containers to keep a person’s focus.

• Containers add variety and interest to the garden and form part of the harmonious whole. They should not dominate the landscape, but contribute to the overall effect.

• Complimentary objects, like balls, can add additional interest to your container garden design. These objects will not have any plants in them, but their shapes enhance the visual effect of containers. These objects can have the same color, texture and finish as your containers, or they can be a complimentary colour.

Container Garden Design
• Design elements ... colour, texture and proportion don’t exist in isolation. They all work together when you are planning your container. This is what gives your planter its visual personality.

• Remember that the container plantings must also contribute to the larger garden around it.

• The plants and container must complement each other, just as a cooking pot and lid go together. For example; if you select a tall container, you need to plant a tall thin plant in it.

• Round smooth leaves look good in curvaceous containers. Short square containers match short plants with fountain like leaves. They are also suitable for short, low growing plants....etc.

• Select plants that are compatible in terms of light, water, growth and the conditions in the chosen site. Don’t mix a shade and water lover like plant with a dry and sunny plant....and some plants need a pot of their own.

• Pay attention to watering. For containers in a sunny, hot or windy area, watering twice a day might be necessary. A plant that has outgrown its pot will also need more frequent watering.

Some Ideas for Mother's Day Gifts

Five - Handbag hangers are very stylish. You can get them with a built in mirror, cosmetic cases,as a key chain and even your favorite design logo. Handbag hangers also make great gifts for any holiday or as a business gift for your female clients.

Four - Handbag hangers keep your handbag nearby, in an outdoor or busy restaurant -- a handbag hanger is much safer than hanging your purse on the back of your chair where someone walking by can easily grab it and keep walking.

Three - Handbag hangers make for great conversation. They are still fairly new in the market and they reflect your style.

Two - Handbag Hangers keep your handbag OFF the floor, clean and germ free! Think about the germs that are on the floor of public areas such as restaurants, bathrooms, nail salons, etc,

One - And why wouldn't you want to protect your investment and keep the leather of your purse clean ...

More Easter Ideas

To start have a nice arrangement or an Easter egg tree as your centerpiece - then under it place the “parting gifts” for your guests. I like to have personalized tags on each one - usually I laminate a “holiday” picture of Charlie on it with a small note to each person or family - this year Charlie is wearing bunny ears...

Simple Easter Ideas

Simple extras to make your Easter extra special this year!

Trends We Love for 2010 and Trends We Would Love To Go

Trends We Love

Trends are often considered the pieces you buy one year and throw out the next, when they're no longer gracing the pages of your favorite  magazine.
However, not every trend is fleeting. A few years ago, going green was hailed as one of the hottest trends. Now it is becoming a standard throughout the design industry.

A list of 10 trends for 2010 that have some staying power ...

Palette
Regarding colour - turquoise is the colour for 2010, but shades of purple will continue into 2010. In particular, purple and gray, yellow and gray and matte shiny gray together, are great combinations. Clearly "Gray is the new beige," and we anticipate rich and unexpected combinations like gray and teal, or magenta or tangerine.

Bolder design decisions
In the last year, people were looking to be calmed and comforted by interiors....this year, a  sense of optimism will translate into sparkle, glamour and lots of risk-taking in design.

Forget faux
In 2010, we want to see a movement toward the natural patina of woods, metals and other materials. We don't even mind a water mark or a hint of rust. After all, those imperfections may be the result of generations of wear and come with a good story or two.

Artisanal goods
Just as artisanal foods have taken off, expect the same for home furnishings and accessories. Artisanal work will continue to be strong......even modernists will want to see natural materials or the work of the craftsman brought into their home in some way.

Texture
Texture will be big in 2010. We are spending a lot of time researching new natural materials and unusual techniques with a lot of rich, textural interest... products include a woven natural bamboo headboard, a crocheted floor cushion, recycled glass candleholders and storage made of kooboo.

The well-traveled look
The Sundance Channel series "Man Shops Globe" follows Anthropologie buyer-at-large Keith Johnson as he visits country after country, looking for special pieces and inspiration for the company's 135 stores worldwide. Whether you're scouring or browsing shops during a quick weekend getaway, incorporating souvenirs in a space can give it a bit of personality.

Mix it up
In general, I see a trend to a carefully edited 'anything goes' approach.Going forward in 2010, it's all about the mix and how you combine individual, disparate elements. The right classic 19th century piece will mix with certain vintage finds from the '70s and '80s and with pieces designed this year.  Graphic modern print textiles work with traditional chairs and sofas.

Old is new again
Antiques and vintage pieces add soul to any space...and these types of items are plentiful in today's markets, so our clients are able to invest in key pieces for their home.

Wallpapered ceilings
Wallpaper is huge this year ... and believe it or not - look for wallpapered ceilings as an increasingly popular option for creating visual impact in a room.

Trends We'd Love To See Go
The essence of interior design will always be about people and how they live - personal taste and decor that meets your needs are always in style ...
That said, there are some trends we've come across in the past few years that we wish hadn't been so widely adopted.

•  Flat-screen TVs mounted so high above the fireplace mantel, you get a neck cramp before the first commercial break.

•  Home makeover shows that set unrealistic expectations about decorating a space. There are usually scores of people

   working behind the scenes whom you never see on screen. Plus, we're firm believers that good design takes time.
•  Shallow sink basins that result in water splashing everywhere.
•  Outfitting a room top to bottom with reproduction designer furniture. We've seen too many homes filled with so much

    Eames, Bertoia and Saarinen with no personal touch or reflection of ones own style ...
•  Watch any house-hunting program on HGTV and, chances are, granite countertops are on the buyer's wish list. But

    with so many options now available - including recycled paper and glass products - our wish for 2010 is for anyone

    embarking on a remodel to think beyond the granite and stainless steel combination.

Color Trends for 2010

Turquoise

Color trends are the result of much observation of our surrounding natural world as well as the influences that will impact our world in the future.These factors include socioeconomic issues, technology, lifestyles and play styles, diversions, entertainment, and most importantly, the needs, moods, fantasies and aspirations of consumers.
 
Turquoise ... combining the serene qualities of blue and the invigorating aspects of green, Turquoise inspires thoughts of soothing, tropical waters and a comforting escape from the everyday troubles of the world, while at the same time restoring our sense of well-being.
 
Whether envisioned as a tranquil ocean surrounding a tropical island or a protective stone warding off evil spirits, Turquoise is a color that most people respond to positively. It is universally flattering, has appeal for men and women, and translates easily to fashion and interiors. With both warm and cool undertones, Turquoise pairs nicely with any other color in the spectrum. Turquoise adds a splash of excitement to neutrals and browns, complements reds and pinks, creates a classic maritime look with deep blues, livens up all other greens, and is especially trend-setting with yellow-greens.

Here are  three color themes that have been predicted for 2010:

One - "genesis" which is all about real colors found in the natural world. From green to yellow, the greyscale continues. Carbon color footprints. New beige and white. Monochromes in colored and earthen neutrals. Beautiful hues of browns, creams, greens, reds...think sand, flowers, grasses, root vegetables. Colors include: wild mushroom, forest moss, yellow finch, frostline, granite.

Two - "the new luxury" which is more about values and less about wealth. Sophisticated deep and rich tones. Bold translucency and art-inspired brights contrast against beige grounds. Gold, bronze, copper. Sustainable color choices accented with luxurious chromas of organic brights....think eco-chic. Colors include: sandlot gray, granite, wild orchid, caponata, summer plum, gold.

Three - "ingenuity" which is considered more out of the box and fun. Unexpected and free. Sporty hues and glimmers of metallics. Playful color tones. Prismatic color, ombre effects. Bold and vibrant yellows, blues, oranges...think freedom of expression and right-brain thinking. Colors include: seaweed, midnight navy, salsa, fairview taupe, bronze.

Wallpaper Trends for 2010

Trends to watch for: Floral Patterns · Retro Prints · Large Graphics · Vibrant Colours

Trends in home designs come and go, and wallpaper is no different. Wallpaper has ridden the waves of popularity over the years and recently there has been a rising interest with an offering of new, rich designs and interesting textures. Whether you just want to make your new home unique, or are preparing your house to put on the market, deciding to wallpaper the interior can provide great visual interest to potential buyer and visitors.

You may not be impressed at the thought of covering your walls once again with wallpaper, especially if you think back to some of the designs that were produced back in the 60 and 70's. Although some of the new designs have a distinctly retro feel there are plenty of other choices, anything from Victorian to geometrical, vinyls to fabrics, and small repeats to entire murals. As with all decorating elements there is something to fit in with all kinds of taste and budget range.

Original Art

Hot off the press!!

March has arrived, and with it comes fabulous new art!!!

We just received some great new pieces from Robyn Millar and Annette Sicotte!

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.