Why is it that our utility rooms are designed as strictly that… utility? Function is always at its best when combined with form.  We do this in other rooms, but the laundry and mudroom are probably the most neglected rooms in a house. They are often designed simply to incorporate the necessities and thus are often under-utilized.  Since laundry is likely not anyone’s favourite activity, planning is the key to creating an efficient but inviting space. Redesigning your laundry room can make the chore seem like less of one.

Well, it is always a welcoming thought that it is beginning to look and feel like spring… Soon we will be seeing green grass, blooming flowers and hopefully a lot of sunshine.  But as always with the change of seasons, comes certain chores that should never be overlooked.

So, if your home is starting to look dated you are probably watching the current trends. While some have become less ‘trendy’ and more of a must have; some will last a few years and gradually cycle again down the road.  Then, others are here today and gone tomorrow in this age of ‘disposable décor’. It is almost impossible to predict what will happen over time.  All we can be sure of is that there will be another trend that we will like because our tastes change.  That being said, choose carefully – you may want an affordable avenue to incorporate a trend that inspires you to display your personal style, and be sure to invest in timeless choices for bigger elements of your home. 

Happy New Year to All!

 

After this very long winter, it is no wonder that people are longing to rediscover the joy of outdoor living and hopefully soon, that will be a reality. We have talked about the creation of outdoor rooms and the extension of our living spaces into our yards in the past. (See our reclaiming the backyard blog here.)

With growing or shrinking family dynamics and ever changing lifestyles sometimes, we simply outgrow our house…or it stops feeling like home!  For some, the simple answer is to move or build elsewhere…but for others, moving is simply out of the question.  Perhaps it’s about logistics and proximity to work, the babysitter, particular schools, parks, arenas, malls, or the nearest city centre that makes it impossible to consider. Maybe they cannot bear to leave their neighbours, who over time have become great friends, or it is just the general tranquility or maturity of their neighbourhood that is the draw. For whatever the reason for not moving, renovating can be the answer. For some a kitchen, bathroom, basement, or open concept renovation can often resolve an indoor functionality issue and make them love their home once more. However, sometimes the solution for a specific problem involves an addition for much needed space or the need to update or recreate the exterior of the home. 

Wow! Has a whole year passed by again? … it seems like just yesterday that we were looking at what the trends would be for 2018.  Where does the time go?

Wood floors, timber beams, and barn board façades are not new to housing but lately there is an increased interest in bringing a natural look and warmth back to our homes.  Perhaps, it is the fundamental comfort that wood adds to any space, inside and out, that makes a house feel like a home! … Or quite possibly it is the desire of many to incorporate more green products into their living space.   Reclaiming old barn board and beams is genuinely a great way enhance a home but equally to recycle.

One of the joys of the Christmas holidays is the opportunity for reflection on the past year.

We have all heard the term “Smart Home” but what does that really mean?  Well, the term refers to homes where the entertainment systems, security system, window coverings, lighting and climate control are all capable of communicating with one another and are remotely controlled by the homeowners’ app on their tablet/laptop, phone, or an integrated system.