SPACE - Home Design and Style

W E DN E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5 THE VANCOUVER COURIER

SPACE home design + style

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THE VANCOUVER COURIER W E DN E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5

Container gardening WORDS BY SANDRA THOMAS

In fact, larger areas are also ideal for planting in containers because of their versatility. They also, according to garden columnist Anne Morrison, can act as maximum security jails for beautiful, but invasive plants.

Container planting is not just for gardeners living in small spaces.

Best of all, by using containers gardeners maintain complete control of the soil mix, sun and shade and pest control. And while there are dozens of garden variety containers available to purchase, with a little imagination the possibilities are literally endless. Look around your home for items that can be recycled. Think old toys, kid’s furniture, tricycles, bikes, kitchen bowls or buckets. The social media platform Pinterest is also a great site to check out for inspiration. Just don’t forget every container needs a way to drain water so if it doesn’t already have holes, prepare to get handy. And don’t forget, when it comes

to container planting, size absolutely matters.

The following are five easy ideas DIY containers, with a state-of-the-art urban cultivator thrown in for good measure.

PLASTIC RE-USABLE SHOPPING BAGS: That Whole Foods bag isn’t just for buying organic produce. With a little potting soil, it becomes the ideal vessel for growing it.

These bags work well for growing lettuce.

RETIRED PURSES: Combine your love of gardening with flair for fashion. Line an old purse, or purses, with plastic and hang from your balcony, fence or bathroom hook.

VINTAGE OR QUIRKY TEAPOTS: Teapots come in all shapes and sizes so don’t be afraid to combine several for an interesting grouping.

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DOLLAR STORE DECORATIVE TINS: Splurge and buy two – or ten. Line with plastic to avoid rust and let your imagination do the rest. Don’t forget to punch some holes in the bottom.

CHILDREN’S TOYS OR FURNITURE: Give that broken dump truck or tiny Adirondack chair new life by transforming it into a container to grow flowers or vegetables. In the case of a broken truck, you can plant directly into the box. As for a small wooden chair, simply remove a slat from the seat and place a potted plant in the space.

URBAN CULTIVATOR: This Surrey-based business has made it possible to grow fresh, organic herbs and greens at home in a high-tech container, about the size of a dishwasher. Each unit’s pre-programmed control centre selfregulates water, light and humidity levels.

Gardening has literally never been easier.

URBANCULTIVATOR.NET.

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W E DN E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5 THE VANCOUVER COURIER

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SMALL spaces

WORDS BY SANDRA THOMAS

W

Be prepared to downsize and declutter.

ith the cost of real estate at an all-time high in Greater Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, tiny condominiums, apartments and “micro-suites” have become a hot commodity.

sized bed and desk in the room, but by the time we were done it held two full work stations, a set of bunk beds and a queen-sized bed.”

But for many, moving from Home A to Home B is not as simple as finding reputable movers. Once the deal on that 550 or even 350-square-foot condo has been inked, the next question inevitably is, “How are we going to function in this small space?”

Resource Furniture specializes in space-saving “transformable” pieces, which serve multiple uses, including Murphy beds, expanding tables and side boards, office furniture and seating, such as a chair that transforms into a step ladder.

David Hooper, owner of Resource Furniture Vancouver located on Richards Street, says a couple recently came into the store, looking for ideas on creating a functional guest room/office.

Hooper notes it’s not just seniors downsizing or young couples purchasing their first home who are turning to small space living and looking for appropriate furniture and accessories.

“The space was 10 by 10,” says David Hooper. “They were hoping to fit a queen-

“It’s right across the board,” he says. “We had a guy in here who was 100 years old and when he saw how our furniture

could transform, he said ‘Wow.’ We also had a toddler in here who was just starting to walk and she said the same thing when she saw it, ‘Wow.’ The demographic is everyone.”

Hooper recommends homeowners having a professional look at their small space before making any decisions about furnishings. He adds the untrained eye might not notice vital details such as the way the doors swing, the height of lighting fixtures, the ceiling and outlets, or the pathways through the home.

But there’s no point thinking about moving into a small space unless you’re prepared to downsize and declutter, experts say.

Professional organizers Susan Borax and Heather Knittel launched their company, Good Riddance, to help individuals, seniors, couples and families do just that.

Borax advises no matter how big or small a job is, the key is to start early.

“People have to leave themselves enough time to cull,” she says. “They have to decide what’s important, what activities they’re still engaged in and look at what they’ve been dragging around. That could mean thousands of items and decisions.”

Borax says the process can often be both exhausting and emotionally draining, so she suggests bringing someone in to help. She also recommends starting in one room at a time so as not to feel overwhelmed.

Welcome to your new favourite room

Custom built & fitted kitchens for under $50,000 Contact us today for a consultation!

info@mlkproperties.ca

604-288-2667

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THE VANCOUVER COURIER W E DN E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5

Old is newagain WORDS BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

New trends in interior design are often dictated by the economic times we live in. In 2015, it couldn’t be truer.

An economy that is doing well, a desire for more eco-friendly space and a renewed interest in the past and hope for the future is fuelling one of this year’s biggest interior design trends – incorporating contemporary design styles with beautifully crafted vintage pieces.

“Interior designers are incorporating stunning vintage pieces into sleek, modern interiors to add personality... giving the space heart and soul,” said Mark LaFleur, veteran antique dealer of more than 25 years and co-owner of the Antique Warehouse (partner Larry Adams).

When contemporary design ideas are combined with Old World handcrafted vintage pieces, the effect is stylish, original

PHOTO CREDIT: ANTIQUE WAREHOUSE

and unique. This reflects a desire to create an interesting space.

In our quest to return to simpler time and a reminder of the real meaning of life, heirloom pieces handed down from generation to generation – such as that fabulous armoire - are often the piece de resistance in a room.

These items recall an era where family values were more important than everything else. It’s also about getting back to nature and living the three R’s – reduce, reuse, recycle.

“Look for a vintage piece you really like, one that grabs you and make it the focal point of the room,” said LaFleur, who travels to Europe at least five times a year in his quest to bring to Vancouverites treasured antiques from France and England. “It can be a vintage light fixture, a chair, a table but it will add the wow factor into any room.”

However, he cautions buyers to purchase from a reputable dealer and to stay away from knock-offs, as they are often of inferior quality and dubious materials.

“A good vintage piece (particularly from Europe) will outlast anything produced offshore,” adds LaFleur.

“And of course aesthetically, a vintage piece always looks more beautiful. The carving and details are finer and will always look pleasing to the eye. Again, people pay exorbitant amounts on new construction with focus on the detail and finishings. Your furniture deserves the same consideration.”

Before you purchase a vintage piece from a personal sale, make sure to call or visit your local antique or vintage store.

“If it’s cheap, it must be questionable,” said LaFleur.

“A reputable dealer will be happy to advise you because if you aren’t skilled on what to look for in a true vintage piece, you could be taken. Most of the antique and vintage dealers are honest in this city; you just have to know what to ask.”

A buyer should also question the age of the vintage piece and where it was built.

“All of our vintage pieces come from France. Our vintage furnishings, from the ‘40s up to the ‘60s, were inspected by the French government and therefore carry an inspection stamp right on them,” says LaFleur.

In a good antique store, you can find anything from mid-century modern, Art Deco, French Empire to Louis XV or Louis XVI pieces that will outlast and be more beautiful than anything new. You’ll also be happy knowing you are decreasing your environmental footprint.

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Life is good.

Larry Adams, co-owner of The Antique Warehouse

In the 21st Century antiques have taken on a new direction.

They’ve become decorative focal points, conversation pieces, works of art. An antique or vintage piece can fill a space with charm, elegance and interest like nothing else.

Larry Adams and his partner Mark LaFleur travel to Europe several times yearly shopping their exclusive, cultivated network of dealers, fairs, private individuals and estates, collecting only pieces of the best quality, condition and price they can find.

Vintage chandelier from Italy, c.1960.

After 30 years in the business they know what’s good and what’s not, what’s authentic and what’s reproduction.They fill their 12,000 sq ft showroom with everything from period 17th Century antiques to Mid-Century Modern.There’s something for every taste and every budget.

Gold Giltwood Salon Set French, c.1930.

With the advent of the internet their clientele has become global.The designer or collector can shop the website from the comfort of their own home or office. Be it London,Australia, or China, the Antique Warehouse can ship anything, anywhere.

Important Art Deco Sideboard

by George de Bardeyere, c. 1930, Paris.

Our mission statement since 1989, has always been “Best Selection, Best Service, Best Prices.”Above all our goal is to make you happy. If you’re happy, we’re happy. It’s as simple as that.

We invite you to visit our one location at 226 SW Marine Drive or visit us online at http://www.antiquewarehouse.ca

19th Century French Farm Table from Provence, France, c. 1880.

We’re open 7 days a week and have free parking directly in front.

We guarantee you’ll have an experience you’ll never forget. Furniture you won’t find anywhere else.

Welcome to the Antique Warehouse.Vancouver’s best source of European antique and vintage furniture since 1989.

Mid-Century Modern Chairs from France, c. 1950.

Important early 20th Century French Commode from Paris. c.1900.

THE ANTIQUE WAREHOUSE 226 SW Marine Drive Vancouver, BC V5X 2R4 604-322-0373 • 604-324-3661 www.antiquewarehouse.ca info@antiquewarehouse.ca French Directoire ‘Chaise Longue,’ c.1820.

Early 20th Century Chinese Salon Set.

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THE VANCOUVER COURIER W E DN E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5

IN

the mood

The relationship between paint and mood

Painting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to transform the look of a space. The colors homeowners choose for their walls can give rooms their own unique feel and even affect the moods of the people within them.

Finding the right shade for a bedroom or kitchen involves more than just selecting the first color that catches your eye. Design experts and psychologists alike say it may be worthwhile to choose a color that helps you feel good rather than just following design trends. The paint color you pick can add energy to a space or create a tranquil retreat where you can unwind at the end of the day.

BLUE To create a spa-like environment and a more serene space, look to shades of blue in soft variations. Cool blues are soothing colors that can help lower stress levels and promote sleep. That’s why blue is a frequent fixture in bedrooms and bathrooms. Just be advised that too much blue can make a room appear cold and stark, so balance out blue with some warmer accents.

ORANGE Many people do not immediately consider bright orange for their homes, but when used as an accent shade, orange can really brighten up a home. Orange is considered a shade that expands creativity and imparts a youthful appeal to a space. Consider an orange accent wall or a burst of color with orange throw pillows. If pumpkin orange is a little too bold for you, tone it down by choosing a more pastel, peachy hue, which is equally warm and energizing.

RED Red stimulates energy and appetite, which is why the shade is so popular in restaurants and home dining spaces. Red is a good choice for social gathering rooms but may not be the wisest choice for a bedroom, as the color may prove overstimulating.

GREEN Green can evoke composure and tranquility and works in any room of the house. Since green is the primary color of nature, it also works well for those people who want to bring some of the outdoors inside and work with the fresh starts and new growth that green can inspire. To make green feel less subdued and sleepy, work with its complementary opposite, red, by using a few bold red accents here and there to balance out the tranquility of green.

PURPLE People have long related purple to royalty, and this dramatic color can add a formal, regal aspect to a home depending on the hue. Purple also may help stimulate the creative side of the brain. In paler shades of lavender, purple can seem almost ethereal and spiritual. Some designers suggest avoiding purple in a bedroom because that is a place you want your brain to rest rather than be stimulated.

YELLOW Few colors are more vibrant than yellow, which can help stimulate conversation and make thoughts more focused. A luminous shade of yellow is an ideal way to make any space more welcoming and bright. Just use it sparingly, as too much yellow may not be a good thing. Yellow accents mixed with touches of purple can offer the balance needed to prevent yellow rooms from overwhelming residents and guests.

Home decorators should keep in mind that colors can be blended to create the desired environment. A color scheme based on complementary colors, or those opposite on the color wheel, may fit. Otherwise, analogous color schemes, or those colors that are next to one another on the color wheel, can create a variation that suits your design needs.

W E DN E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5 THE VANCOUVER COURIER

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■ 4.2 H15 Valid Friday, May 15 to Monday, May 18, 2015. 10%, 15% & 20% offers: Discounts are mutually exclusive. No price adjustments on purchases made prior to Friday, May 15, 2015. Offers cannot be combined with any other offer or new account discount. Refunds on purchase(s) made using this offer will be reduced by the value of the offer as indicated on the sales receipt. This offer cannot be redeemed at our Liquidation Stores at Stone Road Mall, Guelph, ON; Yorktown Plaza, Newmarket, ON; Northland Village Mall, Calgary, AB & Metrotown, Burnaby, BC.15% & 20% offers: Excludes regular, sale and clearance kitchen electrics, household appliances, cookware, beverage consumables, beverage pods, furniture with .00 price endings, vacuums, mattresses, patio furniture & personal care, All-Clad, Dyson, Le Creuset, Licensed Departments, Gift Cards, POSA, Gift Registry online & Smart Buys. 10% offer: Applicable on regular, sale and clearance items including kitchen electrics, household appliances, cookware, beverage consumables, beverage pods, furniture with .00 price endings, vacuums, mattresses, patio furniture & personal care. Excludes Dyson, Saeco, Breville The Boss™ blender, Jura, Licensed Departments, Gift Cards, POSA, Gift Registry online and Smart Buys. Hudson’s Bay, Hudson’s Bay Credit, Home Outfitters, hbc.com, homeoutfitters.com and their associated designs are trademarks of Hudson’s Bay Company. Credit is extended by Capital One Bank (Canada Branch). Capital One® is a registered trademark of Capital One Financial Corporation. MasterCard and the MasterCard brand mark are registered trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated. All marks used under licence. All rights reserved.

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THE VANCOUVER COURIER W E D N E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5

W E D N E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5 THE VANCOUVER COURIER

FINEfinds

WAX ON FUTURE FURNITURE

ALL ABOARD Charcuterie is all the rage in restaurants these days – why not make your own at home?

Among the required items: meats, cheeses, garnishes, dried fruits, nuts, drizzling honey and, of course, a stunning serving board to wow your guests. We love these solid walnut boards by Kate Duncan – locally handmade, they range from $60 to $195 at Atkinson’s, feature stainless steel or brass handles, and can do double duty as cutting boards and serving trays.

1501 W Sixth Ave., 604-736-3378.

ALL ABOARD

Noa Nichol, managing editor of Canada’s premier lifestyle website VitaminDaily.com and its monthly sister print magazine, VITA, helps us round up six stunning décor items – many with a local twist – for your home.

WAX ON Among the things you need for your home: Vancouver Candle Co.’s premium soy-wax candles, $32 each and in scents inspired by local neighbourhoods – i.e., the beachy freshness of Kitsilano (lemon, jasmine, sandalwood and sea air), beautifully coniferous Point Grey (a blend of cedar and balsam) and leathery-tobacco for Gastown.

VANCOUVERCANDLECO.COM

FIFTY SHADES OF ART You’ve read the book; you’ve seen the film – now, own a piece of art from Fifty Shades of Grey.

Vancouver’s own Ian Tan Gallery supplied the stormy painting that hung above Christian Grey’s movie-set bed.

Though the oil-on-canvas work, “Undertow,” has since been sold, artist Gary Aylward, inspired by our rugged West Coast landscape, has several other tempestuous pieces on offer at the gallery – many featuring several shades of grey.

2202 Granville St., 604-738-1077.

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ATKINSONSOFVANCOUVER.COM

PILLOW TALK These punchy throws printed with images of Stanley Park cherry blossoms, East Van crows on a wire and graffiti are made by Strathcona photographer Erika Pantages, who clearly saw appeal in the cohesion of gritty imagery and fluffy pillows (so do we).

LOUNGE ACT March saw the release of a chair so local, it’s leisurely. The Vancouver Beach Chair ($169), a collaboration between luxury outdoor living products maker Gallant & Jones and talented textile designers KT&Paul, features a sturdy and transportable two-piece oak frame and a fabric back hand-printed with highly symbolic local icons (sunshine and rain, tankers and trees). Best of all, $10 from the sale of each chair directly benefits homeless youth at Covenant House. GALLANTANDJONES.COM

PILLOWFIGHT.COM

MAP IT

COLD HARD

IANTANGALLERY.COM

UP THE CREEK Artist and avid canoeist Natasha Wittke launched Norquay Co. in 2013, consequently making her painting canvas and her boat paddle one and the same.

Each of Wittke’s painted paddles, which range in price from about $275 to $380, is handcrafted from solid Ontario cherry wood and embellished with bright, vintage campware-inspired designs, making them both functional and beautiful for sluicing through dark forest lakes (though we wouldn’t blame you for using one as a point of interest in your home). NORQUAYCO.COM COLD HARD Concrete is the new kid on the home-décor block, perfect in a sleek and durable bench top, an eye-catching bathroom sink or intriguing artwork. If you’re as obsessed with the cold hard as we are, you’ll be chuffed with Concrete Cat. Based in Edmonton, the studio’s team of designers and artists turns out concrete art of the decorative and architectural variety that positively oozes effortless industrial chic – everything from clocks to wall sculptures to fireplaces. On our shopping list: these cute Concreep planters ($28 each), adorable grins and all.

MAP IT These digitally printed, hand-drawn typographic maps of the city ($50 each) are made by a local graphic designer with a love of lettering and a drive to know her hometown better. The maps are parcelled into neighbourhoods and available in two sizes and three colours (blue, green and grey – how very Vancouver). They fit a standard IKEA frame and, best of all, can be custom-ordered to highlight your hood. A great office-warming gift for your best friend’s startup, or for the directional-ly disinclined. CARTINA.CA

CONCRETECAT.COM

FIFTY SHADES

PILLOW TALK

UP THE CREEK

LOUNGE ACT PHOTO: JANIS NICOLAY

FUTURE FURNITURE With smartphones, e-readers, tablets and other devices a natural part of modern-daily life, it’s time the process of charging these gadgets blended more seamlessly into the space around us. That’s why Ikea is offering its new line of wireless charging furniture in stores and online, with a promise to eliminate the need for awkward cables that often have to stretch in order to reach the nearest outlet.

The Home Smart collection includes side tables and lamps (boasting the brand’s usual assortment of quirky Swedish names, Varv, Riggad, Nordli and Selje), each with a nifty little “plus sign” loaded with the latest in electromagnetic wireless charging technology, called Qi. Just place your compatible phone on the spot, and watch your battery fill to overflowing. Smart, huh? IKEA.COM

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THE VANCOUVER COURIER W E DN E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5

DREAM kitchen An updated kitchen does more than boost the value of your home. It is the central meeting place for most families, so no matter whether you make just a few changes or completely renovate the space, a kitchen that feels new is always refreshing and welcoming.

From basic cooking to frequent entertaining, a dream kitchen should always look as good as it functions.

Since the modern kitchen design is everevolving, so are the products available, say experts.

Skip the fads and include features that are not only aesthetically pleasing but will withstand the test of time.

to occupy a small horizontal space for the utmost in urban minimalism.

The thoughtfully designed faucet also combines the best of style and functionality with its innovative pullout design and integrated swivel ball joint to make it easier to maneuver the wand in and around the sink.

How to create a dream kitchen in less time than you think

Here are a few easy updates to turn your current space into the one you’ve been dreaming about.

GO BOLD WITH FIXTURES When remodeling a kitchen, remember to top off the highly used sink area with a fashionable and functional kitchen faucet.

With a great number of faucets on the market, there’s a design for everyone.

For a sleek, contemporary look at the sink, try the new Tilt kitchen faucet from Moen Canada. It features a distinct, top-mount handle – allowing the faucet

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BE SMART WITH APPLIANCES Unlike a rug or lamp, kitchen appliances are not simple to return, so be smart - not flashy when upgrading these items. Before making a purchase, it’s best to work with a professional for guidance, and to weigh all factors, such as who uses the kitchen, how many people are cooking at one time and how often your family cooks.

If you’re an aspiring chef, consider a gas range that allows you to control the flame with precision. If you’re a busy mom, electric versions allow you to heat food and boil water faster.

ADD AN ISLAND Whether you’re hoping for more storage, seating or cooking space, an island can do it all. Many

homeowners choose to build an island within their kitchen as a place for family and friends to gather and socialize. A multi-level design with stools on one side can provide casual seating for guests, leaving the other side available for you to prepare food or serve appetizers.

AMP UP LIGHTING Merely changing out the decorative lighting fixtures over the breakfast nook or centre island can have a significant visual impact, creating a fresher, more up-to-date design.

For a warm and inviting environment, combine four layers of lighting: task, ambient, accent and decorative.

The ability to adjust light levels is also important. When cooking or cleaning up, a bright punch of illumination makes the job easier. For lingering over a meal and conversation, dimmed lights help create ambiance.

Whether your dream kitchen involves a complete overhaul or a simple spruce up, take the necessary steps, plan accordingly, and make your design dreams become a reality.

springCLEAN W E DN E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5 THE VANCOUVER COURIER

Top 10 Tasks to Spring Clean Your Home

WORDS BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

The annual ritual of spring cleaning is upon us – but it can seem a daunting task. Here we break it into easy pieces Crocuses are breaking through the hardened ground and the daffodils’ buds have begun to burgeon in gardens everywhere. This is the time when, in many homes across the province, a ritual is about to begin.

At the first signs of spring, home owners are getting ready for this yearly observance that seems to grip us and not let go – spring cleaning.

Yes, the sun is shining through our (slightly grubby) windows, we feel energized by the warmth and we are struck by this great urge to grab a pair of rubber gloves, a pail and soap to rid our homes of dirt and grime. It seems few rites of spring provide as much satisfaction as the annual clean. But it can be a big undertaking if you don’t know where to begin.

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For March’s entry on our 2015 Home Maintenance Tasks Calendar, REW.ca went to the experts to help guide you through this important spring custom.

Christine Kishor, Everything Organized franchisee in Kelowna, was more than happy to provide her to-do list.

“Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a daunting task if you break it down into bite-sized steps,” Kishor said.

KISHOR’S

Top 10 Spring Cleaning Jobs

1 2

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To begin Kishor always suggests working room by room and working from top to bottom and left to right. This helps you keep on task.

Remove items to be taken to dry cleaning or washed, like drapes and decorative bedding. Many draperies and curtains are machine washable, but check the labels first. Dry-clean fabric shades. Wipe down wooden blinds with a damp cloth and warm water mixed with a little mild dishwashing liquid – this also works well and safely on metal and vinyl blinds.

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Damp-dust places that are not part of your regular housecleaning, such as high shelves, window ledges and art.

Wipe down walls and ceilings – concentrating on fingerprints and dirty areas. No need for chemicals – simply use a bit of water and baking soda to get scuff marks off.

However, if you have really stubborn surface grime, especially in kitchens, tackle it with a solvent-free degreaser (it’s a good idea to test it first in an inconspicuous area to ensure it won’t ruin the surface).

5 6

Clean, vacuum and treat upholstered and leather furniture to bring a new life and longevity.

Clean and treat wood furniture to bring it back to its original shine. Do you have chalky heat damage or stubborn rings (often caused by wet glasses) on your favourite wood table? They may be removed by rubbing a mixture of equal parts of distilled vinegar and a quarter cup of baking soda with a gallon of warm water. Then wipe off and apply wood protector of your choice. Voila!

Back to new.

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When vacuuming and cleaning floors and/or rugs, move furniture that has been in place during the winter season and clean underneath; perhaps move things around to get a new perspective. Synthetic carpets and rugs with waterproof backings can be deep-cleaned with a rotary

shampoo machine and a hot-water extraction machine. However, rugs without backings, such as those expensive oriental rugs, require professional cleaning.

Room Rebirth

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Spring is also a great time to take a fresh approach to your home décor. Think about introducing new ideas to breathe life into your house. Reinvent a room’s use. Look at a room’s possibilities through fresh eyes. Make a clean sweep of more than just the dust bunnies.

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Colleen Brome, a freelance interior decorator and Realtor with ReMax Realty, says a great way to freshen up your décor is to add a new colour, spruce up your bedroom by recovering your duvet, bed skirt and throws or rearrange your furniture.

To freshen stale air, open the windows and let in new air. There is nothing like the smell of spring to lift your spirits.

“Sometimes, it’s as simple as taking out a piece of furniture from your living room, such as an armchair, and incorporating it into your bedroom,” adds Brome. “It forces you to look at repositioning the flow of your house… It’s important to move with ease in your home.”

Pull out items in cabinets and drawers, vacuum out debris and wipe down both the inside of the drawers and the items inside.

This is a great way to downsize and feel lighter.

Wash down windows and window sills. For streak-free windows, mix equal parts of distilled vinegar and warm water.

Use either a dry cloth or newspaper... yes, this REW.ca writer has tried using newspaper and it really works.

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Head outside to sweep away old man winter and spray down decks and sidewalks. A pressure washer can be rented from tool and equipment rental shops or at some hardware stores.

For another sense of renewal, consider buying a new door mat to welcome in the new season.

For more information and tips on home organizing go to www.everythingorganized.net.

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THE VANCOUVER COURIER W E DN E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5

Cultivators WORDS BY SANDRA THOMAS

I

n early 2001, four friends from the sunny Okanagan Valley launched B.C. Northern Lights. With experience in automotive manufacturing and a bit of entrepreneurial flare, they set out to design and build the perfect indoor growing environment. Today, the company’s flagship “BloomBox” is recognized as the market standard for indoor gardens.

B.C. Northern Lights provides customized nutrient management plans and unlimited tollfree technical support. Customers can speak to experienced growers and technicians seven days a week.

as Snoop Dogg, who purchased one and had it specially designed. In fact, B.C. Northern Lights now sells a rastacoloured version of the grow box called the Snoop Lion.

Because the company owns its manufacturing facilities, it can tweak production runs to respond to customer requests, making each run of boxes better than the last. B.C. Northern Lights’ BloomBox is now a sixth generation product, with customer-directed changes incorporated along the way.

Besides the BloomBox, B.C. Northern Lights builds the Producer, a selfcontained and self-watering unit complete with a charcoal filter that takes the guesswork out of indoor growing; the RoomMate, an odour-free unit designed for small spaces; and the MotherShip, which provides an ideal growing environment for up to four mother plants.

Grow room combos are also available, which takes the grower through all stages of production. For more information, visit bcnorthernlights.com.

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DIY

VS. PRO When it comes to remodeling, refreshing or renovating bathrooms and kitchens, it’s wise to be reasonable about what is DIY and what should be left to the pros.

I

nterior designer Janice Beaudoin, “Not unless you happen to be a skilled It’s not of Janice Beaudoin Design in North finishing carpenter,” says Beaudoin. always as easy Vancouver, says some homeowners Updating physical windows can make an as it looks. can pull up old floors to save money, but incredible difference to a home both inside hiring an installer is recommended for best and out, says Beaudoin. results when laying a new floor. Carpet and hardwood flooring in living rooms should “Trimming the window is like putting a frame also be installed by professionals, Beaudoin says. around the view, and draperies are often the finishing

Beaudoin says most people like recessed lighting, especially in their kitchen, which is something that should be installed by a certified electrician.

touch. Even if you don’t have them in the rest of your home, drapes add colour, warmth and drama to a living room, which is usually the most ‘formal’ room of the house. Interior designers have access to designer fabrics that turn your window from blah to beautiful for less than you might think.”

“If you are a DIY-er, hanging pendant lights over an island might be a project you might want to take on,” she notes.

And while tweaking decor can be a fun DIY project, it may not be as easy as it looks.

In bathrooms, a simple vanity fixture replacement can be something a homeowner might attempt, but if you are installing a fixture in a new location or any recessed lighting, hire an electrician, says Beaudoin.

“I can’t tell you how many people choose a paint colour because they like it in someone else’s house and are sadly disappointed when it looks completely different in their home,” says Beaudoin. “Everyone’s lighting is different and a colour will never look the same in two homes without identical lighting conditions. Even if you don’t work with a designer for your base materials or furnishings, consider a paint colour consultation with a designer or decorator. It’s so worthwhile to get an interior designer to help you with choosing your base materials: floors, cabinets, countertops, backsplash tile and wall paint. Your kitchen is a big investment and working with a designer will help you find the right materials for your home and lifestyle and help you avoid making expensive mistakes,” she says.

Same goes for lighting.

When asked if kitchen countertops can be done as a DIY project, she answers simply, “Nope.”

“Most new kitchens are engineered quartz or stone countertops. They need to be professionally fabricated for sink and faucet openings. Besides, they’re really heavy.

Countertops are large pieces of solid rock,” she explains.

Cabinets are also not a project for weekend DIY warriors.

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THE VANCOUVER COURIER W E DN E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5

THEWOW factor WORDS BY MICHELLE HOPKINS

Have you ever wanted your interior décor to look as fabulous and put-together as a show home? Here we reveal some tricks of the trade Did you know that adding greenery into a room or using art work as a focal point are some secrets professional home stagers use to help sellers get top dollar for their house?

These are just two secrets from Patti Houston, founder of Fluff Design & Décor and Rent Fluff, a showroom filled with contemporary furniture, art and accessories for rent or purchase.

Now you too can have a home that looks like it came off the pages of a magazine.

Houston, a professional home stager with more than a decade of experience in the industry, has helped hundreds of homeowners and realtors reorganize and style homes to command a top price. “The goal is to make your home clean, organized, and welcoming so potential buyers can picture living there,” says Houston.

Houston offers inspiration to take your home from drab to fab with 10 easy tips.

W E DN E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5 THE VANCOUVER COURIER

Top 10 Staging Secrets to Give Your Home the WOW Factor

1

Hang art no more than 60 inches from the floor One of the biggest mistakes Houston sees over and over again is art hung way too high.

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“Always err on the side of too low or your art gets lost in its own space. The centre of the image should be at eye level,” she adds. “Art should take up a sizable part of a wall relative to the scale of the furniture.”

6

When you hang art pieces a bit lower than you’re used to, you are creating a central point.

If your home is like most people’s, the art is hung in a high line circling each room.

That’s another big mistake. Placing pictures, paintings and prints in such formulaic locations can make them invisible.

“Art displayed creatively makes it stand out more and shows off your space,” Houston says.

2

Use oversized art for impact Big art makes a statement. To have real impact or to provide character in a room, hang large-scale pieces of art work.

Start with art and choose accessories to support it Look at your art, figure out the predominant colour and coordinate your accessories in a “whisper of the other colours.”

Every property has a “kick off” point such as floors, wall colour, etc. – stage to that If you have deep red mahogany floors, for example, don’t add clashing orange accessories.

In one recently staged home, the owners installed high-gloss candy apple cabinetry.

For that kitchen, Houston toned down the accessories, opting for cream tones.

“You have to make sure that everything you add into the space embraces the tone of the floor or the walls.”

7

Don’t overdo accessorizing – know when to stop “Coco Chanel once said ‘accessorize your outfit and then take one piece off’,” says Houston, adding less is always more. “It’s very easy to go from beautifully accessorized to looking like a storage room.”

“A piece of art can bridge architecture and decor,” adds Houston. “If you are on a budget, there are great oversized prints that you can purchase.”

8

Make sure that secondary art supports the main piece “The secondary pieces really should support the main piece,” says Houston.

“For instance, if you have a large abstract with a floral theme, then your secondary pieces should be abstract. However, don’t be matchy-matchy, but rather coordinate the colour or style of your art scheme.”

Many rooms have built-in focal points: a large window with a view, for example, or a fireplace. If your room doesn’t have a built-in focal point, create one. For example, a bookcase, large piece of furniture or a large mirror works well.

3 4

Use neutral-coloured furniture and add a pop of colour with accessories and pillows Oatmeal and grey are two neutrals that have stood the test of time.

“These two colours are classic neutrals and go with just about any décor,” says Houston, adding that the trick is to change pillows and accessories with the seasons.

When adding accessories, consider mixing edgy, avant garde or traditional metals – such as gold, brushed nickel and silver – into your décor to add a little sparkle.

“Done properly, it’s a really cool look,” she says. “In addition, be mindful to place accessories that have a relationship with each other... say, a trilogy of candles on a pretty tray or a stack of books on one section of your coffee table and flowers on the other.”

Address focal points A room’s focal point is what your eyes are naturally drawn to when you walk into the room. Everything around the focal point complements it.

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Use greenery in every room Big plants, whether succulents, ferns or rosemary topiaries, add to the look and energy of a room. “If you aren’t a green thumb, there are great quality fake trees that really change the energy of the room,” she adds.

“Fresh bouquets of flowers always add a nice touch to any room.”

If you follow these 10 tips, your home will become a beautiful place to live – and as a bonus, it’ll already be staged perfectly if you ever come to sell it.

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Don’t compete with a view If your home is fortunate enough to have spectactular city, water or mountains views, let those be the focal point and decorate to that view.

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THE VANCOUVER COURIER W E DN E SDAY, M AY 1 3 , 2 0 1 5