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20 Design Awards
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Mirrors, Trays, Rugs
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FUNCTION + PURPOSE
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DIY PROJECT: Macrame Wall Art 2 | AspiredHOME Magazine
Rooms To Love + Sell
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FOCAL POINTS
ASPIREDHOME ONLINE MAGAZINE - WE DELIVER DIRECTLY TO YOUR INBOX! A Real Estate Staging, Home Decor Lifestyle Magazine. Free to subscribe, (guaranteed until Jan 2018) this online magazine will provide staging, decorating and lifestyle inspiration to your inbox. We will showcase the difference between decorating and staging using the language of home decor. Including recipes from internationally acclaimed, Chef Johnny Kirk, and features on upcoming artists, this magazine will be an entertaining and practical source book. Whether you are a decorator, stager, or homeowner looking for aha moments AH Magazine will not disappoint! At no cost or commitment, subscribe today!
Visionary Publisher/Editor - Angela Brooks-Osborne Content Director/Editor - Tori Toth Arena Senior Editor/Advertising Director - Linda Kafka Proof Editor - Gregory F. Osborne Art Director/Photographer - Sarah MacLeod -------------------------Technical Decorating Editors Corinne Kaas, Charles Messenger, Claire Jefford, Angela McKinnon, Rachel Viloria Moriarty, Sheri Bruneau, Veronica Solomon, Elizabeth Scruggs, Jamie Klecka Technical Staging Editors Bobbie McGrath, Tracy Molendi, Cynthia Riley, Naomi Findlay, Margaret O’Connell Gehr, Joanne Abrahams, Susi Pereira, Red Barrinuevo, Birgit Anich, Lori Pedersen, Kelly Peletier -------------------------Feature Writers + Special Contributers: RESA News + Updates: Shell Brodnax Rooms to Love + Sell: Elizabeth Hudson Scruggs Decor Inspired: Margaret Gher The Gallery Feature Writer: Carrie Colton Int’l Chef: Johnny Kirk Cover Artwork Occupied Staging by Bobbie McGrath Photo by Charles Dickens Photography AspiredHOME Magazine is published by OTB Publishing a division of OTB Marketing & Design. St. Catharines, ON. Contents copyright (c)2017 by OTB Publishing. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or duplicated without written permission of the publisher. All Rights reserved.
www.aspiredhomemagazine.com
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Make It Sellable
Creativity is key in our industries, whether in home staging, interior design or real estate, we have to think outside the box, repurpose and feature a lifestyle – that’s found in most people’s aspirations. We can see and sell spaces with our imagination and that’s why we’ve created this magazine to feature this unique ability. Inside the pages of Aspired Home Magazine, you’ll find different sections that reflect important aspects of what makes up a quality design.
The Gallery
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In the section, Décor Inspired we’ll go beyond the norm! Experts will discuss trends, home goods and provide inspirational ways to incorporate items into your next project. Sourcing simplified with a click of a button. In Let’s Talk Color we’ll share color trends and how to use color effectively. It’s not just décor that inspires our projects, we find creative impulse to channel our design plans through food and traveling. So, try out a new recipe from International Chef Johnny Kirk and sit back to explore some amazing locations in Destination Inspired Décor + Lifestyle Travel. Decorating and staging are two different services that create a visually appealing home. We spotlight these contrasts in the section Rooms to Love + Sell. But we go one step further in the next two sections, Loving + Selling: Focal Points, focusing on those differences when making a space interesting for our clients. While Loving + Selling: Function + Purpose sheds light on how to create a distinct space when decorating verses staging. Besides featuring projects in the Showcase Spotlight section of the magazine, we feel it’s important to provide tips on how to build client relations and grow your business. Plus, we’ll always share a DIY Décor Inspiration to utilize in your own designs, that’s on trend and inexpensive to implement. I promise you’ll love the project featured in this issue. Each quarter the magazine’s pages start off blank, awaiting you. I’m honored to orchestrate new ideas, share your stories and aspire YOU to be a successful entrepreneur, as the Aspired Home Magazine’s Content Director.
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Tori
Tori Toth, Content Director/Editor www.ToriToth.com
Vacant Staging by Chicagoland Home Staging Photo: Chicago Home Photos
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NEWS + UPDATES from RESA
My mom always said “Angela, you can do anything you set your mind to.” My dad proved it by helping us build snowmen in the summer, with snow from the local hockey arena. I learned visualization was a part of this dreaming and acheiving goals, when walking to school with my best friend Dawn Buchner. Every day from age 14, we sang “driving around in my automobile...”, visualizing the car I would be driving when I turned 16. Two weeks after my sixteenth birthday I drove a 1982 Camaro. Today marks an accomplished goal as you read this note from the publisher. I have visualized this magazine for 3 years. Meeting Tori Toth, was the catalyst to seeing this magazine into fruition. As a visibility expert, with her video editing talents, fabulous writing skills, I knew her and I could pull off, what I always thought would need an army to make happen. I wasn’t too far wrong...we could never have accomplished this first issue without the amazingly talented AH team of contributors and technical decorating & staging editors, our awesome photographers, and supporters.
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Home Stagers FB Group
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IN THE BUSINESS
The vision for this online magazine, is to be the voice of real estate staging and decorating industry. To bring awareness to both industries. I want to dispel the myth that staging is just decluttering, cleaning and painting. When in fact there is an art and science to preparing a property for sale, by identifying the buyer demographic and using design elements to highlight and feature the bones of the property to attract the perfect buyer. I feel strongly about letting people know that living in a beautiful space is something everyone deserves, and hiring a decorator is not just for the rich and/or lucky. Decorators can save you money, with planning and sourcing great decor pieces, save you by avoidingcostly mistakes with their design knowledge on color and style. Because of this vision, it is crucial we ensure the magazine stays free to subscribe. We want everyone to read and share it! AspiredHOME magazine is an interactive publication, we encourage you to click on all the videos for more in-depth information on designers, projects and more. In the middle, you will find a directory of professionals, click to view their websites, portfolios and offered services. Most of all, I hope you are inspired and love AspiredHOME as much as we do!
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Angela
Angela Brooks-Osborne Visionary Publisher www.aspiredhomemagazine.com
Vacant Staging by Andrea Chennisi Photo: Kristen Oldfather
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Rooms to Love + Sell: The Master Bedroom Elizabeth Scruggs
General Contractor, Stager, Interior Decorator
Welcome to the inaugural issue of Aspired Home! I’m happy to be a contributing columnist for this magazine and included with so many of the dynamic leaders in my industry. Anchored by a stellar team, this magazine will be a go-to source online for all things staging and decorating. Whether preparing a home to sell, or decorating to make it your own, there are several distinct differences. Rooms to Love + Sell will focus on a specific area or room of the home each issue. We will examine how to address the space to prepare it for sale, and offer ideas to enhance the space where you choose to dwell.
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Vacant Staging by Red Barrinuevo Photo: West Blue Media
This issue, our focus is on the master bedroom. Real estate statistics point toward the kitchen and master bedroom/ bath suite being the key spaces that help sell a home. To get top price for your listing, these spaces need to be magazine worthy.
For Selling:
Clear: Rid the space of visual clutter. If the floors are solid surface, remove any rugs, and always remove all personal items and photos.
Calm: A sense of peace and calm is
the name of the game in this room. The color on the walls should be soothing and inviting - a neutral with a blue undertone is often favored by men and women alike for this space.
Use: Always ensure the room is
staged for its intended use. If a buyer can’t determine how the space is intended to be used, it causes confusion. The master should always be shown as the master. The foot of the bed should be visible upon entry, and straight. Any time furniture is placed on the diagonal; it visually eats up space.
Master Bedroom Occupied Staging
3rd Place Occupied Staging by Bobbie McGrath Photo: Charles Dickens Photography
Symmetry: Furniture and accessories should be symmetrical. Use two nightstands of the same size and two lamps of the same size (preferably matching). Less: Less is always more. Buyers want to envision a retreat-like setting in a master suite. Use solid color bedding, keeping it simple and tasteful. Master Bedroom Occupied Staging
Occupied Staging by Kelly Peletier Photos: West Blue Media
2nd Place
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Master Bedroom Occupied Staging
1st Place
Occupied Staging by Susi Pereira Photo: Teresa Barcelona
Right: “This staging project is located in a very popular area of Washington DC. The neighborhood has some established restaurants and nice retail but it is the place where many more are trying to find a spot. One restaurant right around the corner has a line outside every day that opens with a two hour wait. Seriously, people camp out just to eat there! This master bedroom is in the penthouse property of this building. There is access to an amazing rooftop deck (however it is shared with the other tenants) and extra large living space throughout the unit as the developer was able to purchase two buildings side by side and made a double wide unit. For that reason, it is unlike other properties in the area. Apparently the city is no longer allowing developers to do this ‘double wide’ concept so this makes the unit even more unique. For that reason, this property is priced on the high side for this neighborhood. I knew that I had to make the master bedroom feel extra special for a buyer that is going to spend this kind of money on a property in this area. I wanted the buyer to feel as though they were staying in a Parisian Hotel every time they came home. The challenge for this staging was that all of the walls were white. I wanted to keep the neutral tones but had to soften them a bit so that they didn’t get washed out.”
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Master Bedroom Vacant Staging
3rd Place
Vacant Staging by Leslie Anderson Photo: www.dannydansoy.com
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Master Bedroom Vacant Staging
2nd Place
Above: The staging in the bed-
room of this modern urban cottage located in Indigo Shores was a mix of casual furniture, natural wood, blue accent colours, with some slightly industrial touches. The headboard was made from reclaimed wood hand-made by a local company. Walls were painted a soft white, and curtains are soft and flowy. Nautically striped bedding, and the light fixture from DVI’s ‘Urban Cottage Collection’ add to the urban cottage feeling. A must in any urban cottage, the natural jute rug, was added to anchor the room.
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Vacant Staging by Joanna Lane Photo: Basem Farid Photography
Master Bedroom Vacant Staging
1st Place
Vacant Staging by Janne Burgio Photo: Robert A. Hansen
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“This model home bedroom was staged to target young and trendy first time home buyers. The feature wood wall was made from thermally modified planed wood that gave it a more modern look than traditional reclaimed wood. Custom hangers were created to loop hanging pendant light bulbs in place of traditional table lamps. Round bulbs were used in place of Edison style bulbs to soften the look. Custom black and white artwork was created for the room. A leather butterfly chair with a cozy throw and cable knit pillow, and curtains puddling on the floor finish off the slightly Scandinavian inspired room.”
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Vacant Staging by Joanne Lane Photo: Basem Farid Photography
For Dwelling: Soften: Completely opposite of
staging, if you have solid flooring, anchor the bed with a rug. The rug should be placed horizontally under the bed, with about 2/3 of the rug under the bed. Lighting: Install a dimmer switch to adjust any overhead lighting, and opt to use lamp lighting instead of overhead lighting when possible. Often overhead lighting is too harsh, and lamps with lower wattage bulbs create a soothing atmosphere. Fluff: Add lots of pillows and a downlike duvet to create a heavenly bed. Comfort: If space allows, add a comfortable chair and small floor lamp for a cozy corner to read or nap. Double Duty: Don’t get too matchymatchy with your furniture selection. Instead of matching nightstands, think outside of the box and use a side table, or even a writing desk beside the bed. When decorating and personalizing a space, be creative and use pieces in different ways than their intended use. Visit me on Facebook or my website and send any questions you may have. I look forward to engaging with all our new Aspired Home readers! For more help in readying your property to sell, always consult a professional real estate stager. Find one in your area by visiting the directory in our magazine.
Wall sconces: Secto 4230; available in 4 finishes: birch (natural), white, black & walnut MSRP $ 2125.00
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Master Bedroom Redesign
3rd Place
Totally new design of the master bedroom including: new carpet, paint, electrical and lighting, drywall to cover the existing popcorn ceiling, all new furniture, bedding, and accessories.
Redesign by Corinne Kaas Photo: Motion City Media
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Master Bedroom Redesign
2nd Place
Redesign by Veronica Solomon Photo: Miro Dvorscak
“This master bedroom retreat was a bachelor’s. He was a very busy businessman who wanted a cozy and relaxing space. The home is Mediterranean style and my client has very traditional taste. He did not want it to look masculine, but more of a gender neutral look. The home overlooks a river that is just steps from the patio off the bedroom. The monochromatic color palette of green, gold and beige was chosen to reflect the views of the river and landscape outside. We used very luxurious materials and finishes to give the room a rich look and feel. We also kept comfort and function in mind, by adding performance fabrics and a lot of seating.” AspiredHOME Magazine | 17
Master Bedroom Redesign
1st Place Redesign by Claire Jefford Photo: Stephani Buchman Photography.Â
This award winning bedroom design, by Claire Jefford, features custom furniture, headboards and built ins.
Revere Pewter BM HC-172 (Wall Colour)
Cloud White BM 967 (Trim, Crown & Built- in)
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Drapery Fabric by Maxwell Fabrics
Master Bedroom Redesign
1st Place
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Vacant Staging by Red Barrinuevo Photo: West Blue Media
Decor Inspired:
Rugs, Mirrors, Trays
Margaret Gehr
Certified Home Stager
www.chicagolandhomestaging.com
Ready to be inspired? Even those in the design world get stumped sometimes when it comes to utilizing every day dÊcor. Many times we use furniture and accessories in the same manor from project to project, making our rooms feel a bit boring and repetitive at times. Let’s bust through boredom with these inspiring images featuring rugs, mirrors and trays. 20 | AspiredHOME Magazine
Vacant Staging by Birgit Anich Photos: BAStagingInteriors.com
Dressing Up the Floor With hardwood flooring trumping carpet when it comes to flooring, a rug can soften the look and be the perfect starting point for some to bring in a certain design style or color palette. The correct placement of a rug depends on how big the room is and what configurations you have with large furnishings. It’s important to get the balance right – making sure the furniture lands on the rug, even if it’s just the front legs.
Vacant Staging byJoanne Abrahams Photo: Steph Abrahams
Rather than sticking with a white-colored shag rug, consider some on trend designs like two-toned colored geometric and trellis patterned rugs. Cooler toned colored rugs you’d see in nature like gray, indigo or green are also trending. Flecked rugs can camouflage stains, while natural fiber including wool, sisal and just continue to grow in popularity providing texture to a room. Fur, cowhide and zebra rugs in fun shapes are being used to place over more muted larger area rugs, as well as, oriental rugs. But this traditional rendition is being distressed but is a unique twist on the classic.
Vacant Staging byJoanne Abrahams Photo: Steph Abrahams
Vacant Staging by Red Barrinuevo Photo: West Blue Media
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Vacant Staging by Red Barrinuevo Photo: West Blue Media
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More Rug Inspiration? For detail on these trays and to see more AH Team picks click here!
ONE THOUGHT BEYOND DISCUSSION: “To Use or Not to Use RUGS?”
WATCH -->
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Vacant Staging by Chicagoland Home Staging Photo: Chicago Home Photos
Corral on a Tray This next accessory, a tray is so versatile and functional this piece of décor will never go out of style. A tray can be used in almost any room to corral smaller items together. This helps ground décor together that may seem like they’re just floating on surfaces, making the arrangement feel more cohesive. When there is a grouping on a tray, the brain is more likely to interpret the piece as one element cutting down on visual clutter.
A tray can add shape, texture or color to your décor. They come in variety of colors and materials including wood, metal, plastic and woven. Like with the rugs and mirrors—geometric patterns, gold and natural elements are on trend. Galvanized trays work well with farmhouse décor. Marble trays with natural wood can also be used in that design style, but provides a good mix of modern-industrial flare to be used in most styles. But, there is another trend using marble and mixing it with gold, rose gold or copper, creating an Old Hollywood feel that’s sophisticated to use when entertaining or showing off items in a glam living room.
ONE THOUGHT BEYOND DISCUSSION: “Trays...Are They Out?”
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Vacant Staging by Red Barrinuevo Photo: West Blue Media
More Tray Inspiration? For details on these trays and to see more AH Team picks click here!
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Vacant Staging by Birgit Anich Photos: BAStagingInteriors.com
ONE THOUGHT BEYOND DISCUSSION: “When and How to Use Mirrors?”
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More Mirror Inspiration? For details on these mirrors and to see more AH Team picks click here!
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Mirror, Mirror on the Wall Maximize a room’s style and square footage with a well-placed mirror. Mirrors can bring light and depth to a room that can reflect and emphasize an adjacent view creating unity. A large bold mirror cannot only be the focal point of a room, but can visually expand a smaller space. A unique way to use a mirror is group the same mirrors together creating a statement in a room. The scale of the mirror should be proportional to each other if used in a grouped display and to the wall space provided. Mirrors that are on trend this year vary from traditionally styled to modern to bohemian. Mirrors can be framed in mixed metals (although brass appears to be very popular at the moment) or even hand carved wood. It’s all in the details when it comes to choosing the perfect – geometric shapes, convex views and lattice designs that are defining this year’s trends.
Vacant Staging by Birgit Anich Photos: BAStagingInteriors.com
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FUNCTION & PURPOSE The Extra Room
by Tori Toth www.ToriToth.com
T
ime to shed light on how to create a distinct space when decorating versus staging. When creating a room it’s important to consider the purpose and function of the space. A dining room turned into a kid’s playroom may serve the purpose of a client’s needs on a design project, but the room will have to be converted back to it’s original purpose –a place to eat and entertain, when it’s time to sell. In real estate maximizing the square footage of a property is utilized by creating multiple functions in one room. In a family room, there could be a place to watch TV, store toys & games, maybe create arts and crafts. Each purpose and function will be determined differently based on the project – in this case let’s talk about “the extra room.”
Vacant Staging by Birgit Anich Photos: BAStagingInteriors.com
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Vacant Staging by Birgit Anich Photos: BAStagingInteriors.com
For Selling: If the property has an extra room do some research – what’s the buyer’s demographics, psychographics (what they are interested in) and look to see what recently sold in the area and how they used the extra space. By honing in on a buyer’s lifestyle you can define two, three or even four functions within an extra room’s purpose. Within the functions of those spaces it’s important to create moments, where a little girl can play with her tea set or show where a woman can sit down to finish her manuscript, or maybe it’s a man who wants to play cards with his friends. It’s these everyday moments that can transform these functional spaces into the dreams of how buyers want to live and will help discovers how efficient these hidden spaces are.
Nostalgic Theatre Style Popcorn Machine 59” tall, pops 8 1oz popcorn bags. standardconcessionsuppy.com - $299
Benchmark USA Trolley for Cotten Candy Machines & Zephyr Cotton Candy Machine cart $389 machine $299
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Designed by Claire Jefford Photos: Stephani Buchman Photography
Above: Custom built home gym with glass doors makes this 400 square foot room look larger and brighter for a basement renovation. Flooring is carpet tiles, wall colour is Natural Linen by BM and ceiling colour is ‘Chartreuse’ by BM Below: Reflective metal sliding doors, make it easily accessable to the 12ft electrical panel while keeping the look bright and spacious.
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Designed by Claire Jefford Photos: Stephani Buchman Photography
For Decorating: An extra room can be customized to the client’s lifestyle. What do they need in order to live comfortably on the property? An extra bedroom? An office? Maybe a gym? The purpose in this case will give clients the chance to get creative with the space they have. Once the designer does research on the client they’ll have the opportunity to take what they’ve learned and utilize the different areas of the room. When choosing functions of a room, it should make sense with the overall purpose and correlate with any fixed materials in the space – like a built-in bookcase, fireplace or even closet space.
Designed by Claire Jefford Photos: Stephani Buchman Photography
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DECOR INSPIRED DESTINATION by Tori Toth www.ToriToth.com
T
his unique all-inclusive adults only hotel is set on the white beaches of Riviera Maya. We visited UNICO 20°87° a few weeks after it’s opening in March 2017 and to our surprise found unexpected inspiration at every turn. This isn’t your mother’s Mexico experience -- bold colors, busy tile and graphic art has been refined. They call it “Modern Mexico.” The property features three pools, five unique dining experiences, as well as a holistic spa and wellness center to create a sense of relaxed luxury reflecting the architectural and culture of the region. As you enter the lobby one of the first installations noticed are these massive lanterns strung high above tufted leather seating setting the tone for the entire hotel.
Live in Mexico, we capture on video the design inspiration of this new resort
WATCH -->
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Above: Bar Balam (which translates to
jaguar in Mayan) is an extension of the lobby using neutral tones, textures and mixed metals to create an ambiance that’s one part speakeasy, one part library lounge providing a masculine space to enjoy spirits.
Left: Restaurant 20.87 just steps away
from the beach shifts from a morning buffet to a classic steakhouse by dusk. This simplistic décor style immersed in natural woods, fibers and materials provide a relaxing coastal feel featuring locally made macramé art.
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Above: Mura House is a new twist on Asian
flare relying heavily on lattice woodwork with darker finishes and natural native local stone. The Japanese restaurant celebrates the cultivation of indigenous agave plant, sisal.
Right: Mi Carisa focuses on the traditions and
practices of coastal Italian cuisine. You can sit by the man-made lagoon overlooking local vegetation or indoors in a warm an intimate setting that reminded me of a sophisticated Cucina Italiana you’d find in the New York City or Chicago areas. AspiredHOME Magazine | 35
Designers took a number of trips to Mexico City, Guadalajara and Xuohaca to find local crafts and materials for the hotel – including hand woven tapestries for every room, carved out mirrors and lush upholstery. One of the unique features on
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Every room has clean sleek lines and the neutral color palette allowed designers to play up textures mixing modern luxury with hints of hidden details of the region’s history and heritage. Buzzwords like authentic, handcrafted and eco-friendly made their way to the forefront of this contemporary design style – that you’d never imagine would be apart of an all-inclusive. As a designer we always look to be on trend, but it’s refreshing to see how to transform the trend to immerse a project indigenous to the architectural and design style of the region.
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Talk about a spa-like feel, Unico’s spa and wellness center is a fully-equipped hydrotherapy facility that beams natural light throughout the common areas. Simplistic seating areas using natural materials – like these 1970s inspired rattan cage hanging chairs provides a quiet area to reflect.
Riviera Maya CARRETERA FEDERAL 307 CHETUMAL-PUERTO JUÁREZ KM 256+100, SOLIDARIDAD 77710 QUINTANA ROO, MEXICO HOTEL +52 984 875 7700 RESERVATIONS 1-855-212-4193 38 | AspiredHOME Magazine
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT IDEAL CLIENTS working with Investors
Trez Robinson, who owns Staged 2 Sell, a home staging company in Hampton Roads, Virginia, stumbled upon her niche working with investors. She finds investors to be her ideal client. Along with loving how an investment property is a quick turn around, she enjoys the business to business aspect. Homeowners, often need more time to adjust to the emotion of selling. Working with an investor, they are ready to move and get their invement back, fast! Her company stages, on average, 300 investment properties a year, By teaming up with investors Trez works on properties that are updated – providing a clean slate every time, she feels it’s easier than working with a client’s beloved “stuff.”
Trez Robinson
Certified Home Stager
www.staged2sellvirginia.com
Meet home stager, Trez Robinson as she discusses how she works with investors...
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Vacant Staging by Trez Robinson Photo (and dinning photo top left) : Dennis True
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Vacant Staging by Trez Robinson Photo (above + below) : Arc Imaging
It’s important to simplify and streamline your company’s systems if you plan on working with investors. “Every day an investment property sits off the market is a day money is wasted, so a staging company needs to work efficiently and be flexible with their investor cliental,” asserts Trez. Staged 2 Sell was one of the first staging companies in her area to offer a large enough inventory to work on vacant properties making her the go-to source that provides shorter rental contract terms than commercial rental companies. Since investors are on a strict budget and sometimes their money is tied up in the investment process, Trez has adopted an unconventional way to get paid. Her company is funded by the proceeds from each closing, she believes, “this was the best way to get them to invest in home staging process, which basically pays for itself, because it will help the property sell faster and for top dollar”.
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Welcome to the inaugural issue of AspiredHOME Magazine. RESA is proud to be able to support the industry, increasing the awareness of home staging through the beautiful photos of our talented stagers who make a difference helping the real estate industry increase the return of investment on their properties. Shell Brodnax CEO, Founder of RESA
www.realestatestagingassociation.com
Below is a resource of information that we offer in additional support. We hope you enjoy our industry publication!
Shell Brodnax Become a RESA Member: RESA is the largest network of professional stagers dedicated to advancing professionalism and excellence in real estate - Join Us!
Chapter Finder: Network with other stagers in your area by finding
a local staging chapter near you. Note: If there is not a chapter close by, consider being a leader and start one!
Home Staging Convention: Save the date: July 26-28th, 2018 in Las
Vegas. Hundreds of stagers come from around the world to network with their peers, be educated by experts, find motivation and take all they learned back home to impliment and grow their business.
Home Staging Newswire: Stay up to date in what ‘s happening in the staging community. Press releases, stager spotlights, news and more!
Home Staging Industry Awards: The RESAÂŽ Home Staging Indus-
try Awards are the leading awards honoring real estate staging mastery. Established in 2008, each year top producing stagers are recognized for their professional excellence and superior skills in the art of home staging and re-design.
Continuing Education: Learn from online courses taught by experts in the industry. Browse the educational resource and shop for your next course. 42 | AspiredHOME Magazine
Vacant Staging by Andrea Chennisi Photo: Kristen Oldfather
RESA Consumer Reports
Download at www.realestatestagingassociation.com
AspiredHOME Magazine | 43
DIRECTORY of PROFESSIONALS AUSTRALIA Sydney, NSW Staging Designs Home Staging, Property Styling, www.stagingdesigns.com.au New Castle, NSW Naomi Findlay Styling That Sells www.naomifindlay.com Gold Coast, QLD Tracey McLeod Home Staging, Home Decor www.presentationsells.com
CANADA Calgary, AB Ellen Mann Staging, Redesign, Finishes www.chrysaliscreativehomestaging.com Sheri Bruneau Interior Designer www.gityyc.com
Halifax, NS Rave Re:view Home Staging & Redesign
Vacant & Lived-In Staging, Decorating www.ravereviewhomestaging.com Burlington, ON Creating Contrast Designs Decorating & 3D designs www.creatingcontrastdesigns.com Niagara, ON Steve Dainard Real Estate Mortgage www.themortgageguyniagara.com Colleen Donovan Staging Consultants www.NiagaraHomeStaging.com 44 | AspiredHOME Magazine
Toronto, ON Lori Pedersen Home Staging+Styling
For Selling or Dwelling www.loripedersen.ca Kelly Peletier
Vacant & Occupied Staging www.LuxePropertyStaging.com Susi Pereira Vacant, Staging, Redesign www.welldressedhome.ca Red Barrinuevo Interior Design, Staging www.redesign4more.com Angela McKinnon Property stylist www.homedreamdesigns.ca
USA San Diego, CA Rachel Moriarty
Interior Decorator www.rachelminteriors.com San Fransisco, CA Studio RT Staging & Design Consultation, Staging, Redesign www.studiortdesign.com Fairfield County, CT Birgit Anich Staging www.BAStagingInteriors.com New Canaan, CT Leia T. Ward Vacant, Occupied, Photostyling www.ltwdesign.com Broward County, FL Carol B. Clark Occupied Staging & Redesign www.loveatfirstsightstaging.com
Memphis, TN
Atlanta, GA Amy Powers Home Staging & CE Instructor AskForStaging.com
Cynthia Kirk Home Staging www.beinspiredstaging.com Dallas, TX
Naperville, IL Margaret Gehr Certified Stager www.chicagolandhomestaging.com
Styled to Sell by Lisa Homestaging + More www.styledtosellbylisa.com Katy, TX
Peoria, IL Tracy Molendi Project Management, Staging www.stagingpeoria.com
Veronica Solomon Interior Designer www.casavilorainteriors.com
Snohomish, WA
Richland, MI Carole Morgan Staging, Redesign www.stagerightstaging.com
Raleigh, NC Bobbie McGrath Home Staging www.successfulstaging.com
Decorus Home Staging Consultations, Staging, Re-design www.decorushomestaging.com Would you like to be listed in our directory of professionals? Email aspiredhome@gmail.com for more information.
Dayton, NJ Marian Jacobsen Staging, Decorating, Redesign www.distinctivestyling.com Toms River, NJ Corinne Kaas/Charles Messenger Interior Design, Staging www.harmonizehomes.com Howard Beach, NY Tori Toth Consultations, Online Staging www.toritoth.com Lebanon, TN Elizabeth Scruggs Contractor, Interior Designer, Stager
www.superior-construction-and-design.com
Vacant Staging by Andrea Chennisi Photo: Kristen Oldfather
www.aspiredhomemagazine.com AspiredHOME Magazine | 45
Meet home stager, Karen Hunter as she discusses how she solved the challenge of this kitchen WATCH -->
Greenery by Pantone ... Rather than take
on the costly budget of changing out the kitchen tile, Karen Hunter embraced it using the 2017 Color of the Year by Pantone, Greenery. She carried the trend color through the property.
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT Make It Sellable With Pantone’s 2017 Color of The Year
As a home stager, it can be a challenge working on a tight budget dealing with clients’ decorating faux pas, but Karen Hunter, a certified home stager who specializes in vacant properties on Long Island is a problem solver. She recently staged an older property with a prominent colored kitchen tile that stood out from the entryway. Rather than disguising or removing the color she embraced it throughout the first floor living area mixing it with neutrals to give the space a fresh feel. Luckily, this taste-specific tile color mimicked Pantone’s 2017 Color of the Year, Greenery – and Karen knew this color trend could actually save her client money. By strategically placing key accessories – like placemats, pillows and faux plants in the dining area, living room and entry Karen made the property appealing to young buyers. Often problems are not as difficult to solve as we make them. With some creativity and a small investment, Karen was able to transform the space and increase the value of the home making it a win-win situation for all parties involved.
AspiredHOME Magazine | 47
Decorating
Elizabeth Scruggs superior-construction-and-design.com
SHADOW by B Transitional Glam Office “I am currently redesigning my own home office, and have been so inspired by all the beautiful pieces I’ve found lately - it was easy to choose this space as my room for the color challenge. I used a mix of traditional with old hollywood regency glam, and added a slight chinoiserie flair. Benjamin Moore’s color of the year, Shadow will ground the room on the ceiling and in the rug and the space will pop with the accent color of olive green and the warm sparkle from the brass accents and reflective mirrored desk.
Bamboo 4-Light Chandelier, Antiqued Gold ONE KINGS LANE $1,555.00
19th-C. Shanxi Elm Cabinet ONE KINGS LANE $3695
Armen Living Barrister Chair Green Velvet not available in Canada hayneedle $1,216
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Taraz Overdyed Rug, Amethyst Size: 2’7 x 8’ ONE KINGS LANE $115
Benjamin Moore
Main (60%) White Dove OC-IT (walls + trim) Grounders (30%) Shadow 2117-30 (ceiling) Accent (5%) Kendall Charcoal HC-166 (doors) Accent (5%) Wasabi AF-43
ONE THOUGHT BEYOND DISCUSSION: 2017 Colors of the Year Color Part 1: How to Embrace Trend Colors <-- WATCH
Emmy Table Lamp, Grey ONE KINGS LANE $449 Mirror Top Desk with Bamboo Frame in Gold Leaf Amazon $1,198.00
Class Act White & Gold Desk Chair The Land of Nod $199.00
Note: Pricing subject to change, based on website sourcing. Contact your designer for trade deals.
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SHADOW by B ONE THOUGHT BEYOND DISCUSSION: 2017 Colors of the Year Color Part 6: Shadow
WATCH -->
Main (60%) Miss Universe - Taubmans Ultra White - BM Grounders (30%) Tundra Mist - Taubmans Ice Cubed Silver - BM Accent (10%) Shadow - BM
Wintour side table in brass Brass and marble side table with black magazine sling Freedom $499
Terrazzo pyramid in snow Terrazzo paper weight pyramid Clickon Furniture $49 Broadway cushion in graphite Freedom
Snapper floor lamp brass/mable Oz Design Furniture $329 Ostwald tufted slipper chair Linen fabric slipper chair with black metal frame West Elm $699.00
Roberta floor cushion in graphite Freedom $59.95
Crator coffee table concrete Round solid dome concrete coffee table Freedom $799.00
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Hampton 4 se Grey fabric so Lounge Lover
Benjamin Moore Personalized Unique Room
Home Staging
“I chose a living room/lounge room due to the versatility of the room and the way that colour can make a group of people feel. A living space can also be updated and styled many times over to create different looks and feels – especially with the type of styling I have chosen to go with. The style that I have chosen doesn’t really have a defined “style”. It is a very unique and personalized. It is very warm and textural which is incredibly important in design and staging. It is a style that just makes me feel “good”! The style is a mix of both traditional and contemporary styling elements to create a sophisticated yet extremely livable lifestyle. The tones of colour and varied textural elements create lots of warmth and interest in the space, as well as having “hero” pieces.
Naomi Findlay www.NaomiFindlay.com
The mix of textural pieces includes textiles, timbers, metals and stones to create a beautiful palette that makes you want to experience the room. You want to touch and feel and be in the room. The splash of “shadow” by Benjamin Moore creates contrast in colour and highlights some of the hero pieces of the design. It completes the design. Without shadow, this design could be a bit bland. It creates the perfect amount of drama without being too overpowering. I chose shadow to be the feature colour, because it is a feature. It stands out, it pops.” Home Republic Cube table lamp brass Gold cube table lamp Adair $49.95
Gigja Einarsdottir East Iceland Canvas Print 120 x 90cm with White Shadow Box Moody wall print with white frame Freedom $511
Bookends – Petrified wood Fenton & Fenton $250
eat sofa in Bellevue cement ofa with timber legs rs $2999
Classique console in natural ash veneer Timber console Globe West $795
Home Republic Belgian Vintage Washed Linen Cushion Freedom $48.99 Petrified wood stump stool Fenton & Fenton $650
Kenza 300cm x 400cm rug Fluffy charcoal and cream diamond pattern rug Freedom $1699
Tibetan lamb fur cushion – plum from bloomingville Clickon Furniture $240
Note: Pricing subject to change, based on website sourcing. Contact your designer for trade deals.
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POISED TAUPE b
Decorating
Transitional Family Room “My favorite time of the day is when I am able to sit back pour myself a glass of wine and retreat to my family room. It’s a room that symbolizes comfort and reward for a well spent day. The colors that I choose are warm, rich and comforting. I didn’t want colors that were going to be stimulating. Our home should inspire us to go out into the world to do great things and then welcome us back for renewal.
Corinne Kaas www.HarmonizeHomes.com
This timeless neutral is modern, classic and a beautiful balance of warm and cool. The story of poised taupe is simple. It combines the earthen brown with conservative grey and the result is a weathered, woodsy and complex neutral that celebrates the imperfections and authenticity of a well-lived life.”
Amocha II, III and IV by JBass Grand Gallery Collection Overall: 61.75’’ H x 41.75’’ W x 1.5’’ D Wayfair $911.00 Table Lamps Textured ceramic base finished in a warm smoke gray glaze with plated brushed nickel details. The slightly tapered round hardback shade is a beige linen fabric with. Due to the nature of fired glazes on ceramic lamps, finishes will vary slightly. Uttermost $217
Galleria End Table Overall: 24’’ H x 25’’ W x 25’’ D Wayfair $629.46
Greenpoint By Kate Spade New York Hand Tufted 70% Wool 30% Viscose Jaipur Living
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Bernhardt Jasper Sofa W 95” D 40.5” H 33.5” Finished Polished Stainless legs Fiber back pillows Cushions Spring Down Bernhardt Furniture $2,556.00
Galleria Coffee Table 17’’ H x 43’’ W x 43’’ DViscose Wayfair $911.79
by Sherwin Williams
Main (60%) Poised Taupe SW 6039 Grounders (30%) Spatial White Accent (10%) Seal Skin SW7675
ONE THOUGHT BEYOND DISCUSSION: 2017 Colors of the Year Color Part 5: Poised Taupe <-- WATCH
National Geographic Home Collection Pillow Down filled 12x20 Jaipur Living $124
HENDERSON Overall: 27-1/2” w x 37” d x 42” h Construction: Sinuous Spring Cushion: Luxe Down Miscellaneous: Exposed Wood Frame Bernhardt Furniture $1527.00
YKN96 - Yorkville By Kate Spade New York Linen Pillow 50% Cotton 50% Linen - down filled Jaipur Living $67 Uttermost Bench 20.5’’ H x 23.63’’ W x 15.5’’ DUttermost Bench $329.00
Galleria Console Table 30’’ H x 53’’ W x 19’’ D Wayfair $929
Note: Pricing subject to change, based on website sourcing. Contact your designer for trade deals.
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VIOLET VERb POISED TAUPE
Main (60%) Poised Taupe SW 6039 Grounders (30%) Gauzy White SW 6035 Accent (10%) Gold + Steel Blue
Calming Magnetism Painting Hand painted oil on canvas. 40” x 40 Wayfair $142
Laurel End Table Sof gold metal base with antique mirrored top. 25”H x 18”W x18” D Wayfair $770 Berenson Cream Area Rug 8’ x 10’ Shag area rug Wayfair $223
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Polaris Cotton Throw Blanket 100% cotton blanket in steel blue Wayfair $29
Rotterdam arm chair Nailhead trimmed chair in natural Wayfair $220
RBENA PPG by Sherwinby Williams
Home Staging
Transitional Living Area “Poised Taupe would be a nice neutral color for any room but I chose to highlight the living area as it allowed for more play with furnishings. I chose a transitional style as that’s the approach we take with the majority of our vacant stages. I also chose to curate all items from Wayfair as it is a main resource for many stagers. With poised taupe, Sherwin Williams was going for a cozy yet elegant feel. I believe they succeeded by marrying warm brown with cool gray which opens up so many design possibilities. I chose a light rug to ground the space while still providing contrast with the wall color. The light linen accent chairs also provide contrast. Touches of gold add an elegant feel while the steely blue accents bring not only a touch of color but incorporates and mirrors the coolness of our primary color: Poised Taupe. The result is a cool and elegant room that is perfect for relaxing or entertaining.”
Cleopatra Bench 17.75” H x 22.25”W x 16”D Crossed wooden legged bench with tufted linen seat. Wayfair $183
Cynthia Kirk www.beeinspiredstaging.com
Landry Sofa Rolled arm sofa. 84”. Nailhead trim detail. Linen/Polyester blend Wayfair $772
Edison Floor Lamp 64” floor lamp with an open geometric design and a gold leaf base and linen shade Wayfair $879
Rowley Coffee Table 18” H x 52.5” W x 24.5 D. Soft gold metal finish base with antique mirrored top Wayfair $1150
Mongolian Lamb Throw Pillow Blue/gray Mongolian lamb fur pillow. 16 “x 16” Wayfair $53
Note: Pricing subject to change, based on website sourcing. Contact your designer for trade deals.
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Decorating
VIOLET VER
New Traditional Restful Master Retreat
Veronica Solomon www.casavilorainteriors.com
“I wanted to create a restful master retreat with cool soothing tones, layered color scheme, and varying textures. I wanted to ground the room in a neutral color and sprinkle in Violet Verbena and Sea Mist as accents to add interest. The color combination creates a unified blend that speaks to both the masculine and the feminine. The soft tones in the traditional gives a timeless appeal while recognizing Violet Verbena as the hot new color trend of 2017”
6 Light Pendant Chandelier One Kings Lane - $799
Savoy Place Bed Bernhardt - Trade Pricing
Moroccan Mirror Wisteria - $325
Sophia Mirrored Bench Macy’s - $599
Blanca Drawer Chest Bernhardt - Trade Pricing
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Newton Flat Weave Rug One Kings Lane - $649
RBENA by PPG
Main (60%) Winter Mood PPG G14-16 Grounders (30%) Violet Verbena PPG 1169-5 Accent (10%) Sea Mist PPG 1227-1 & Thin Ice PPG 1001-3
Leftbank Art Trade Pricing
Curved Sofa Paladin Industries - Trade Pricing
Khotan Rug One Kings Lane - $5999
Mini Capiz Shell lamp One Kings Lane - $199
Skirted Chair Abella Home - Trade Pricing
AspiredHOME Magazine | 57
VIOLET VER
Main (60%) Delicate White PPG 1001-1 Grounders (30%) Black Magic PPG 1001-7 Accent (10%)Violet Verbena PPG 1169-5 with gold metals
ONE THOUGHT BEYOND DISCUSSION: 2017 Colors of the Year Color Part 3: Violet Verbena WATCH -->
Solid Black Cowhide Rug black cowhide Once Kings Lane $190
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Fianna Sideboard white/natural – mahogany/teak – 71w x 19d x 31h Once Kings Lane $1495
RBENA by PPG
Home Staging
Contemporary Dining Room “Since this property is all about the architecture and the view outside, I did not want to take up too much visual space and draw attention to the furniture, but rather keep the interior light and airy, so the eye travels outside – hence the use of a glass table. The contemporary furniture mimics the contemporary architecture. With the wooden/reclaimed wooden front I wanted to bring the outside indoors and wanted to warm up the colder elements of the contempoBirgit Anich rary design. The black cowhide picks up and repeats the black of the window www.BAStagingInteriors.com trims and fireplace to tie the architectural elements”
Purple Watercolor Ink Diptych giclée print on fine-art paper Once Kings Lane $299 - 499
Vendome Double Sconce Once Kings Lane $272
Jack Dining Chair white faux leather with brushed stainless steel frame Hayneedle $578 Crosby Dining Table brass/glass Once Kings Lane $1995 Belgian Fig Velvet Lumbar Pillow have it custom made BA Staging Interiors $45
Note: Pricing subject to change, based on website sourcing. Contact your designer for trade deals.
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Decorating
Greenery Global Chinoiserie Chic
“I’m always going for the unexpected when I’m decorating and this space is no different. I chose this bedroom because I thought that it would be the least likely space that someone would envision using Pantone’s Color of the Year, Greenery. I’m calling this space “Global Chinoiserie Chic” because of it’s bold mix of colors, patterns and styles.
Rachel Moriarty superior-construction-and-design.com
Tender Shoots Toby Table Lamp Lamps Plus $130
I draw my inspiration from both European and global references. I love bringing global touches to every project that I work on. I love a good eclectic mix of classic chinoiserie with a splash of color. Bold pattern mixing and color are what I’m known for. In order to do this, I like to create a neutral palette first. In this space I used white for the walls then layered it with a Belgian linen upholstered bed and added campaign nightstands in a neutral navy color. That allowed me to play with chinoiserie prints from classic to modern with little moments of Pantone’s Greenery. It’s a dash of unexpected but still a restful place to sleep.”
SCOTT LIFSHUTZ “LACE FACE” ORIGINAL FRAMED WATERCOLOR PAINTING Jonathan Adler $495.00
SCOTT LIFSHUTZ “DOILY MADISON” ORIGINAL FRAMED WATERCOLOR PAINTING Jonathan Adler $495
Pondicherry Bed with Nailheads Serena & Lily $1,750 - $2,895
Company C Ridgely Lime Throw Blanket Zinc Door $130
Crinkle Duvet Cover + Shams Stone White West Elm $180
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Campaign 3-Drawer Dresser (Midnight Blue) The Land of Nod $699
Sawyer Tufted Bench Joss & Main
y by Pantone
ONE THOUGHT BEYOND DISCUSSION: 2017 Colors of the Year Color Part 4: Greenery
WATCH -->
Main (60%) White PMS 000C Grounders (30%) Snorkel Blue PMS 19-4049 Accent (10%) Greenery PMS 15-0343 TPG
bisou chinoiserie vase Etoile du Noth $68
PB Essential Sham, Euro, White Pottery Barn $99
Artificial Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant in Black Pot Large Target $52.25 champs elysees chinoiserie garden stool Etoile du North $298 Dana Gibson Canton Green Throw Pillow Layla Grace $220
Turned Wood Leg Standing Planter West Elm $179
câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;est le vie! ginger jar Etoile du North $68
Note: Pricing subject to change, based on website sourcing. Contact your designer for trade deals.
AspiredHOME Magazine | 61
Greenery ONE THOUGHT BEYOND DISCUSSION: 2017 Colors of the Year Color Part 2: Overview of Our Picks
WATCH -->
Main (60%) Whisper White 11-0701 (walls) Grounders (30%) Wood Tones (floors, ceiling beams, furniture) Accent (10%) Greenery 15-0343 + Blue Atoll 16-4535
Real Flame DiNatale Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace in Black Wayfair $339.99 Emerald Art Glass Vase by Zingz & Thingz Wayfair $102.99
Draper Mid Century Medium TV Media Stand HOUZZ $417.99
Ombré Hand Blown Bubble Glass Vase by Northlight Wayfair $45.99 Kardiel Jackie Mid-Century Modern Classic Chair HOUZZ $595
Sofia Container Vase by Cyan Design Wayfair $82.50
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Romanza 60.23” Tripod Floor Lamp Wayfair $98.99
Modern Expressions Magazine Table HOUZZ $132
Glass Vaseby Zingz & Thingz Wayfair $38
y by Pantone Modern Great Room
Home Staging
“In my area we have many traditional homes. Love them as I do, my heart has always been drawn to mid-century homes with their clean lines, soaring windows and wide-open floor plans. Since this project is all in my head I decided to “Stage” a mid-century home’s great room featuring an open floor plan, warm wood floors, asymmetrical ceiling and a wall featuring floor to ceiling windows leading to a tree filled backyard complete with a water/fire feature. This is where we all spend our time with friends and family so I was looking to create a welcoming “shot of happy” when you enter the space.Who knows, maybe someday I’ll build this house! When I drew Pantone’s 2017 Color of the Year, Greenery, I immediately thought of how this crisp, clean green would be a great accent allowing the clean lines of mid-century to marry well with the outdoors. Greenery is such a saturated color that I believe it could overwhelm a space if overused so I elected to use it as an accent color. My inspiration for this “Staging” was a canvas print by Jaison Cianelli “Mother Earth”. I fell in love with his use of color and it inspired me to think “art gallery” as I made my selections. I utilized Pantone’s Greenery in the pillows, artwork, and other accessories. Of course, Mother Nature did her part by naturally including this life giving color in the landscaping on the other side of the windows! Adding the blues, reds, orange and yellow featured in the main art piece was my way to embrace a wide range of color.
Bobbie McGrath www.Successfulstaging.com
Round Solid Wood Clock by Corrigan Studio $149.99
Wood floors, beams and furniture provided an organic feel so I sought to add a bit of life and sparkle by using glass when accessorizing the room. In my minds eye I can see the sunlight streaming through the wall of windows transforming each glass vase into a dancing kaleidoscope.
Mother Earth Abstract 84” x 37.38” Matte Finish Canvas Cianelli Studios $1059.11
Stone Blue Ida Sofa HOUZZ $799.01
Frederick Barrel Chair by Langley Street Wayfair $137.99
Aspire Home Accents Adaliz Table Lamp Overstock $77.92 Clark Coffee Table HOUZZ $361.99
Note: Pricing subject to change, based on website sourcing. Contact your designer for trade deals.
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DIY DECOR INSPIRATION MACRAME Wall Art by Tori Toth www.ToriToth.com
Macramé is all the rage this year, I’ve seen it in my travels from Mexico to the Hamptons used as art installations in dining areas, statements above a bed, hanging planters, light pendants, dream catchers, napkin rings and even as curtains.
mac·ra·mé (n.) is the art of knotting cord or string into a pattern. This type of art was popular in the Victorian era and again in 1970’s bohemian style. Materials used in macramé include cords made of cotton twine, linen, hemp, jute, leather or yarn. Learn how to make this wall art. Tori Toth, shows step by step in this video!
<--WATCH 64 | AspiredHOME Magazine
An oversized, handmade macramé piece of wall art can be expensive, but costs a fraction of the price if you take on the project yourself. Here’s what you’ll need: • 200 feet of 3/16 white rope • Rit Liquid Dye (optional) • 3-foot piece of driftwood (pipe, curtain rod, spindle, etc.) • Scissors
Start by cutting the rope into 18 pieces at 150 inches in length. If you plan on using color place 4 strands into the Rit liquid dye (see back of bottle for instructions.)
Next grab the driftwood or whatever you plan on using as the base. Fold each strand of rope in half. Take the looped side over than under the driftwood so the loop is lying on
the table. Place the excess rope from that strand through the loop to create a secure knot. Do this for each strand of rope. Place the next strand close to the first one, so you end up with six strands of white on either side, then add two strands of blue on either side and finish with two strands of white in the middle. We will be working with a square knot.
In strings of four you will place the left string over the two in the middle than take the right string place it over the left string and through the left loop. Keep weaving the rope from left to right than right to left. Add two square knots to each set of ropes and pull tight. We will create a pattern using square knots see video to learn more. AspiredHOME Magazine | 65
Kelly Wiler www.girlupcycledstudio.com
â&#x20AC;&#x153;Be Your Own Kind Of Beautifulâ&#x20AC;? was a custom order that my customers wanted as a surprise for their young pre-teen daughter. This originally belonged to her grandmother but was of course outdated and worn. I worked with them to give it their daughters very own unique personality to it, they originally wanted to toss the original chair until I convinced them that it would indeed be updated and have that glamorous feminine touch by adding the faux white fur and fresh paint. Custom lettering was also hand-painted with a message of strength to greet their daughter each day!
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“Be Your Own Kind of Beautiful” painted by Kelly Wiler
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FROM THE GALLERY Art to Love + Sell:
Inspiration often begins with art. AspiredHOME Magazine hopes to spark a genuine love for original art in all our readers. With the help of Studio Sixty Six, we will bring to the spotlight, from the gallery, the latest emerging artists!
www.studiosixtysix.ca Carrie Colton, Gallery Director & Designer of Studio Sixty Six, provides art lovers, art collectors, and designers with the opportunity to access the best new emerging artists’ work for sale.
Studio SIxty Six interviews Natalie Bruvel for OTBspotlight.tv, where does she get her inspiration? WATCH -->
“Natalie Bruvels’ paintings are: Erotic, Energetic and Exciting!”
Natalie Bruvel Self taught artist Natalie Bruvels often tests the boundaries and notions of beauty through her paintings. She paints the human body with vibrant colours and sometimes indiscernible anatomy (fitting as she has a degree in biology). Natalie lives and works in Ottawa.
SAND AND WATER $2,100 Painting, oil on canvas 48” x 72” / 121.92cm x 182.88cm 68 | AspiredHOME Magazine
Active in the local arts scene, Natalie has performed performance pieces for Ottawa’s Nuit Blanche and has exhibited in many group and solo shows. Her paintings have been selected for Ottawa’s Timeraiser, and she was shortlisted for the 100 Painters of Tomorrow juried publication. Her work can be found in many private collections. Natalie is represented by Ottawa emerging art gallery Studio Sixty Six.
AMBUSH RAINBOW $1,750 Painting, oil on canvas 60” x 30” / 152.4cm x 76.ccm ROSE QUARTZ SOLD Painting, oil on canvas 42” x 45” / 106.68cm x 114.3cm
VESSELS OF THE LAND $1,750 Painting, oil on canvas 60” x 48” / 152.4cm x 121.92cm AspiredHOME Magazine | 69
Did we mention ….we have Johnny Kirk, International Chef ready to cook for you?
Better yet, he is sharing 2 recipes an issue and you can learn to bring them to your own table! Award winning chef Johnny Kirk’s interest in culinary arts began from his perch on the kitchen counter watching his mother and grandmother preparing not only family meals but also the baked goods his grandmother sold locally. But it wasn’t until he was working his way through college at The University of Mississippi that he worked for his first restaurant. After graduating from UM with a degree in Psychology, Johnny attended Johnson and Wales University in Charleston, SC graduating with a 4.0 and an Associates degree in Culinary Arts. Back in the mid-south, his first job was with renowned Master Chef Jose Guitierrez at Chez Phillipe. Kirk served as Executive Chef at some of Memphis’ most popular establishments before opening his own restaurant, Stella, in downtown Memphis. During Stella’s five-year run, both the restaurant and Kirk received many accolades including Best Chef and Best Restaurant. He has been featured in many national publications including Wine Spectator and Southern Living. In 2006, Kirk was honored by the James Beard Foundation in NYC and named a “Rising Star” of American Cuisine. After selling his restaurant, Kirk headed to New York City to attain his certifications in Hydrocolloids and Sous-Vide. While in New York, he enjoyed working with Wylie Dufresne at WD-50. Born into a farming family in the Mississippi Delta, Kirk knows first hand the importance of a farm to table approach to food. This belief, and his search for a better tasting and healthier product, has brought Kirk full circle back to his farming roots. He began his farm, Third Plate Pastures, in 2015 and is trying to revive the practice of holistic ranching. Practicing such techniques as pasture rotation preserves the integrity of the land. Allowing all of his animals to forage freely among the fields and woods on a wide variety of fruit and nut trees produces a higher quality, healthier meat that is in demand by regional chefs. Kirk enjoys teaching and mentoring upcoming chefs and is working on his first cookbook.
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Panko Herb Crusted Pork Tenderloin
1 cup panko breadcrumbs 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat leaf parsley 1 tablespoon black pepper 1 1/2 pounds pork tenderloins, trimmed 1/2 cup Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard Salt and pepper to taste Peanut oil to coat the bottom of your pan 1 tablespoon cold butter Peanut oil to cover up to 1/3 of your tenderloin International Chef Johnny Kirk walks you through step by step how to make this dish! <--WATCH
Asparagus Puree 1/2 bunch Asparagus 4 cloves Garlic, sliced thin 3 oz Heavy Cream 2 cups Spinach 1/2- 1 whole lemon parmigiano reggiano about 1 to 2 ounces or to taste salt to taste white pepper to taste Remove the fibrous ends of asparagus by removing the bottom 3rd off(I simply cut above the lower rubber band and leave the top one on). Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, and toss in the garlic and asparagus. Cook until tender, about 2 min. Just before you strain, add the spinach. Strain the asparagus, spinach and garlic, and then immediately submerge them into ice water, to keep the color dark green and to stop the cooking process. Add all ingredients to blender and turn on the highest setting and blend until the mixture is smooth. Check for seasoning.
1. Preheat oven to 250°F. Mix first 4 ingredients in a large shallow dish to blend. 2. Pat pork dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and fresh cracked black pepper. 3. Heat a sauté pan over medium high heat until hot. Add ½ tablespoon peanut oil and a pat of butter. When it melts and coats the bottom of the pan, add pork. (Tip: lay meat down gently and away from you into the pan to avoid being burned by hot oil). Be careful not to shake or move sauté pan, at first. Pork should stick, sear and then release. Flip and repeat. After browning, place on a rack with a sheet pan under it to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Wipe sauté pan clean for reuse. 4. Using a pastry brush, paint pork on all sides with Dijon mustard (1/2 cup should suffice for 2 tenderloins, adjust if they are bigger) and roll in herb panko mix gently pressing down the pork so that it is well coated and very little if any mustard is visible. 5. In sauté pan, heat enough peanut oil to come up 1/3rd of the way up the sides of the pork. Oil should be 350-degrees F. 6. Add pork to oil, laying it in the oil away from you. Brown panko on all sides and place back onto rack with a sheet pan under it. 7. Roast pork in the oven heated to 250-degrees until thermometer inserted into center registers 155 degrees, about 25-35 minutes. Transfer pork back to rack. Let rest 5 minutes. 8. Slice pork. AspiredHOME Magazine | 71
Crabcake 1 T butter 4 shallots, small dice 2 cloves garlic, minced leaves from 4 sprigs fresh thyme 1 Poblano pepper, small dice Roasted Red Pepper-Scallop Mousse (recipe follows) 1 T Dijon 1 cup cilantro, chopped Salt and pepper as needed 2 lbs fresh Jonah crab meat Place butter in skillet over low heat. When butter begins to melt, add shallots and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 4 minutes. Add garlic and thyme continue to sweat for 30 seconds. Add poblanos and cook over medium low heat until slightly wilted about 2 minutes being careful not to burn the garlic. Place the vegetables on a half sheet pan to cool. Once cool, place in a stainless steel bowl and add all other ingredients except for the crab to the shallot, garlic, poblano mixure including the scallop mousse (recipe follows), and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper as needed. Fold in crab meat. Refrigerate for 30-60 minutes.
Roasted Red Pepper-Scallop Mousse Ingredients: 2 U-10 Scallops, dry packed (very fresh) 1 Egg white 2 oz heavy cream Pinch kosher salt Pinch freshly ground black pepper Method: Place all the ingredients in the bowl of a Robot Coupe with S blade and puree until medium to stiff peaks form about 1 minute or less. *Make sure robot coupe is clean, blade is cold and bowl is dry. Crust Ingredients: 2 oz panko 1 oz. parmeggiano regianno, grated ½ oz melted butter Mix to combine.
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Method:
In an oven-proof skillet, melt butter. Place a stainless steel 2” x 2.5” ring mold in the skillet and fill 2/3 full with refrigerated crab cake mixture. Top with 1 T crust mix. Place skillet in a pre-heated 350-degree convection oven and cook for approximately 8 minutes, or until heated through and topping is golden brown. To remove, place spatula under ring mold and transfer to serving plate. Run a knife between the outside of the crab cake and the inside perimeter of the ring mold. Carefully remove first the ring mold. *Note: Ramekins may be substituted for ring molds. If using ramekins, however, be aware that you will have to serve crab cakes in the ramekins and should not try to remove before serving.
Vacant Staging byJoanne Abrahams Photo: Chris J. Dickson
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FOCAL POINTS The View:
Focal points should be highlighted in every room of the property when decorating or staging a home. The goal is to enhance and draw attention to a specific area, feature or item in the room — which all depends on the purpose and function of that space. A focal point varies from room to room.
Vacant Staging by Red Barrinuevo Photo: West Blue Media
Eero Aarnio Ball Chair: fabric by Kvadrat (Copenhagen), colours as per Hallingdal or Tonus series: red, black, blue, white, orange, grey, green, lime green, yellow & light grey MSRP $ 9560.00 www.aarniooriginals.com
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Let’s start by taking a closer look at showing off a property’s view. A view can rank high on a home wish list, who wouldn’t want to stare at gorgeous views of the city, countryside, mountains or water. People pay more for a view, just look at the price difference when booking a hotel. So, why not take advantage of the view whether selling or staying?
Vacant Staging by Red Barrinuevo Photo: West Blue Media
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Vacant Staging by Red Barrinuevo Photo: West Blue Media
Window Treatment Less is more if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to highlight the view. Swap out busy, bulky, colorful window treatments for lightweight, neutral colors so they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t compete with the view. Hang window treatments to maximize the height and width of the window. Or leave the windows bare, if your not concerned with privacy issues. Trim Back Landscaping If you have overgrown bushes or trees impeding the view trim them back to avoid a distraction. The landscaping should compliment the view being portrayed 76 | AspiredHOME Magazine
Vacant Staging byJoanne Abrahams
. Arrange Furniture Around It Make the view a conversation starter. Arrange furniture around the By doing so, this will draw your eye towards the view as soon as you enter the space. The traffic flow should compliment the view rather than block it. Minimize Accessories Consider the view as the room’s accessory! Fewer distractions in a room will let the eye follow directly to the view. Be strategic about placing accessories and use colors that derive from the view.the view stand out by keeping the walls in a light, neutral color. Go Neutral A view can provide all the color needed in a room. Ever wonder why the walls in art galleries are white? A colorless neutral draws ones focus to the art to be seen in their most purest form. This concept applies when showing off a view. So, have the view stand out by keeping the walls in a light, neutral color.
Eero Aarnio is a Finnish industrial designer responsible for some of the most recognizable pieces of furniture of the last century. His pieces have been designed and shaped from curiosity and imagination. He has developed iconic pieces such as The Ball Chair (1963), the Bubble Chair (1968), The Pastil (1967), in addition to more recent sculptural installations. Eero Aarnio Bubble Chair: leather by Elmo (Sweden), colours are white, black, tan & silver MSRP $5625.00 www.aarniooriginals.com 6900 Airport road, Mississauga, ON L4V 1E8
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IN THE BUSINESS
Vacant Staging by Chicagoland Home Staging Photo: Chicago Home Photos
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Dawn Brolin shares tips on hiring new staff... <--WATCH
Dawn Brolin shares tips on taking on new clients... <--WATCH
Angela Brooks-Osborne interviews nationally recognized CPA, speaker and author Dawn Brolin <--WATCH
What’s black and white with a scoop of hilarity and a dash of rockstar energy? Moi (the hilarity and rockstar) crunching your numbers (the black and white) to make your business a fine-tuned, money-making machine. You won’t find that stereotypical, boring accounting process with this gal. I was born with this innate ability to make accounting fun, useful, and rewarding – just ask my mom. She said I popped out with an abacus and a laugh track – I made that ER a cash cow by the time I was 5 hours old! I find that when speaking in front of accountants, business owners, managers, etc., I have an ability to entertain while educating. This is one of my greatest speaking characteristics and features. It’s important to make topics interesting whether it is about accounting, growing a business, or a simple success story. Of all the gin joints – why did I choose QuickBooks and number crunching? Can you believe that I’m an accountant AND I love being with people? I know, I know, crazy combo, but here’s why… Because of the great lessons imparted by my parents, one of my core value beliefs is to leave people better than I found them. When I come across people while in the business world who are “out for themselves”, “out to only make money”, or simply don’t treat people with mutual respect, I intentionally separate myself from them. I’ve worked hard to get here so I might was well share! Dawn Brolin BUY NOW! www.powerfulaccounting.com AspiredHOME Magazine | 79
Vacant Staging by Leia T. Ward Photo: Daniel Aranda
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LIVE ON FACEBOOK in the Home Stagers Group: OTBspotlight.tv Team, Angela Brooks, Bobbie McGrath, Tracie Molendi, and Tori Toth (and often special guests) broadcast live in the home stagers facebook group, discussing design and business topics. They take their topic ONE THOUGHT BEYOND, answering viewer discussions and more. We share a few of the business discussions in the past few months: Exit Strategies for Your Business
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Growing Pains in Your Business
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Staging & Decorating Resources: HOME STAGERS GROUP If you are a professional home stager, we invite you to join the home stagers group on facebook. This community of home stagers has been growing since 2005. One of the best places to learn and grow your staging business, is in the company of your peers. The requirements for joining the group, require you have a home staging company website, fb business page, or belong to the industry trade association - Real Estate Staging Association (RESA). (1347 members and growing) FOR NEW HOME STAGERS GROUP This community on facebook is a motivational, resourceful and safe place to share ideas, ask questions and learn from our peers...for new stagers in the industry. We welcome people just thinking of launching a staging business. DECORATORS & INTERIOR DESIGNERS GROUP This is a network group for decorators and interior designers to share ideas and inspirations. (664 members) AspiredHOME Magazine | 81
Bobbie McGrath shares a sneak peek of Canadel showroom and the Champlain Collection
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www.canadel.ca 82 | AspiredHOME Magazine
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Vacant Staging byJoanne Abrahams Photo: Chris J. Dickson
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Breaking The Chain Jessica Manuel
Values +Profitablility Dawn Brolin
Beat Procrasination Noel Walrond
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