Experience design freedom
Unlimited finishing options (including wood & wallpaper)
No limits – place artwork or TV directly above the fire
Multiple sizes, multiple orientations & maximum flexibility
Patented Cool Wall System works without powered fans
Safe, reliable heat, even during a power outage
Why size matters: The importance of scale
Reasons for Hiring a Pro
PEPPER RODRIGUEZ, EDITOR
I’ve attended the Calgary Home+ Garden Show every year for the past 15 years or so. It was part of my duties as the editor for a variety of new home/real estate magazines, and I always thought it was one of the best parts of the job. It’s always fun to see all the new products, talk to local vendors, and hobnob with the home improvement TV stars that make it down to the BMO Centre. There was always something there to keep me interested. And now, after Covid cancelled the event last
year, the DIY-home-improvementgardening extravaganza is finally back. And we celebrate its return in this issue.
Noted HGTV star, Bryan Baeumler, makes his return to the main stage, bringing his inimitable style in presenting home improvement ideas to a live audience, and that isn’t all. We have the blueprint inside for the entire four-day show that begins on February 24 at the BMO Centre. Can’t wait to go back – and if the last Calgary Renovation Show held in January is any indication, it promises to be a return to good times. Hope to see you all there.
NANCY CHEMAIT, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
The living room has taken on various designations over time, but never has the word “living” been more representative of the space than in the past two years. What once was a more formal sitting room, or parlour, used primarily to receive guests, has become the heart of the home. It’s a place to relax, read, watch movies, and depending on what show you’re binging, can oftentimes be where you end up eating, and sleeping, too! Need some pointers on how to marry function with fashion? We have 3 local designers that give us keen advice on how to achieve living room bliss while
giving some major design inspiration! Rochelle Cote of RCID has found that compelling and dynamic living room design starts with the floor, and notes that the right area carpet helps to bring the room together. Check out all the details on page 52. Trisha Isabey explains the importance of size and scale in her feature on page 56, and Marie Hebson of Interiors by Design gives us the seven steps to the perfect living room on page 58.
Whether you’re planning a small project or a major home transformation, we hope we’ve given you the inspiration and information to help you every step of the way.
Happy Renovating!
Regency Fireplace Products
THE CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION – EDMONTON REGION
is a not-for-profit organization that engages and serves its core membership of builders, renovators, and general members by advocating on behalf of the residential construction industry in pursuit of members’ success.
BILD – CALGARY Building Industry and Land Development Association –Calgary Region (BILDCR) works closely with various levels of government and stakeholder groups to ensure vibrant, established neighbourhoods and new communities in our region – now, and in the future.
DDA The Decorators & Designers Association of Canada (DDA Canada) is a professional association that elevates the decorating and design industry for design professionals, students, and suppliers through education, events, training, advocacy, and community building.
IDC Interior Designers of Canada (IDC) is the national advocacy association for the interior design profession. As the national advocacy body, IDC represents more than 5,000 members, including fully qualified interior designers and related professionals.
NKBA The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) Ontario/Canada Chapter was established in 1977 and is one of the top associations for the industry. Its members are able to meet with other industry members to learn what’s out there and what other members offer.
CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION Since 1943, the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) has been “the voice of Canada’s residential construction industry.” One of the largest industry sectors in Canada, CHBA’s membership is made up of about 9,000 companies.
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In a world with infinite possibilities, why settle for ordinary?
Introducing a geometrical #GameChanger, the all new Hex shower drain from Serenity™ . Beautifully crafted, undeniably extraordinary.
by SALINA YARA HALABI
C2022 marks the first time an entirely new colour was created for the Colour of the Year, highlighting the importance of innovation and the need to adapt to our changing world. The periwinkle blue hue features a violet red undertone, adding a modern yet whimsical aesthetic when applied. It’s welcoming, exciting and can definitely add some dynamic flair to your home interior. Feeling inspired? Add a dash of this periwinkle hue to your home with finds like these: “
ourageous, empowering, imaginative, futuristic…” are just some of the words Pantone® has used to describe its 2022 Colour of the Year - Very Peri (17-3938). Since 2000, the Pantone Color Institute™ has provided insight on a key colour that is set to be prominent in the year ahead. Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute explains that “The Pantone Color of the Year reflects what is taking place in our global culture, expressing what people are looking for that color can hope to answer.” Through extensive research and review of various factors (including new artists, fashion, popular travel destinations, and socioeconomic conditions), the Pantone team presents a colour that influences multiple industries – home furnishings being one of them.
by AYNSLEY DUECK, DUXTON WINDOWS & DOORS
Year 2021 was certainly the year of home renovations, and has blazed some new trends to set us up for 2022! Some key highlights for window and door replacements include high energy efficiency, large openings for maximized light, and dark coloured frames.
If you’re already replacing a window, why not make it larger at the same time? Homeowners are increasingly taking the opportunity to add natural light to their spaces. Connect a set of 3 windows into one continuous opening – or extend the lines of an existing window like these clients who modernized the look, while adding natural ventilation with operable windows along the bottom.
Thanks to the federal government’s Greener Homes Grant, homeowners can receive money back by replacing windows or doors with Energy Star® Most Efficient products. This grant encourages homeowners to select the most energy efficient product, and glass, possible. “It means homeowners will be more likely to select an awning instead of a sliding window, to get a tighter air seal” comments David Smeding of Shield Windows & Doors in Edmonton, Alberta. “Also, they are more likely to select triple pane glass with 2 Low-E coatings instead of just 1 for the maximum R-value.” The better the window, the more you can combat condensation when temperatures reach down to -30 degrees Celsius.
Dark frames continue to trend, with black in the lead. As a neutral, it can be used in renovations and new construction alike. It particularly pairs well with the bright and modern renovations. By selecting a fiberglass frame instead of a PVC or wood frame, you can easily choose a darker colour, and apply it equally as the interior or exterior colour. Whereas PVC does not take to paint as well, and wood requires frequent maintenance, fiberglass is well suited to the trend.
Front entry doors are the “eyes” to the home, and the best ones are memorable and unique! The availability of fiberglass panels is broad and varied – from woodgrain to smooth skin styles – cut-outs of glass that can be customized – custom matches for that perfect “sunset” colour. Paired with a fiberglass frame, you get a much more rigid frame that offers much longer durability. Lastly, consider a multipoint lock. “Customers love multi-point locks because they feel much more secure, and they are more airtight, which is perfect for our cold climate,” comments David.
On a similar note, it’s very popular for homeowners to select a custom colour that complements their wood trim. They are tired of having wood windows that require maintenance, but they also don’t want a white interior. Choosing a colour that picks up on hues in the grain is a nice nod to the original design, without staying in the past.
Find out what you can do to make the world a better place – beginning in your backyard!
by MARK & BEN CULLEN
Whether you define yourself as a gardener or not, we hope you find the following suggestions helpful. These are our top four ideas for making your yard, which is an integral part of the community around you, an environmentally better place for all:
Each Canadian uses an average of about 100 kilowatt-hours of energy drying clothes in the clothes dryer annually. Your clothes dryer uses as much power as 225 lightbulbs. In total, for all Canadians, this is roughly equivalent to the output of three coal-fired power plants per year. It’s important to note that you can save up to $250 a year by drying your clothes outside.
This suggestion is a not-so-subtle way of saying that you should not buy a gas-powered leaf blower. And if you have one, ignore it and let it hang in the garage until it rots. Giving it away means that someone else might use it, and that would defeat the purpose. If everyone who uses a leaf blower instead used a fan rake (on the lawn) or a broom (on hard surfaces), imagine how much quieter our neighbourhoods would be. And how much more satisfying yard cleaning could be. There is more
that you can do if you wish to add to the environmental benefits of living in a neighbourhood. You can trade your gas-powered lawnmower for one of the new lightweight, walkbehind, manual reel-type mowers or a rechargeable electric model.
Think of your yard as one patch in a patchwork of yards around your neighbourhood. And think of the patchwork of yards as part of a bigger whole that includes public parks, soccer fields and other public greenspaces. Got the snapshot in your mind? Now think of the positive impact you can have on the sustainable bioactivity in your neighbourhood by adding a water feature to your landscape. Environmentally speaking, still water (versus a waterfall or fountain) provides more benefits to the ecology
of your outdoor space than any single addition that you can make. And all it takes is a half barrel of water and a few floating water-lettuce or water hyacinths. A ground-level pond is better still, where toads and frogs can play, drink, mate and live.
As you plan your garden for this upcoming season, be sure to add some native plants to your mix. They are insect and disease free, for the most part, and they attract all kinds of pollinating insects, birds and butterflies. Many perennial flowering plants are very winter-hardy and flower for an extended period each spring and summer. Some of our favourites include bee balm (Monarda spp.), purple coneflower (Echinacea spp.), Canadian ginger (Asarum canadense) and Joe Pye weed (Eupatorium spp.).
by SARA DUCK
Sharon Grech, Benjamin Moore’s colour and design expert, shares three inspiring ways to bring the best of the outdoors
One of the most impactful ways to bring a sense of the outdoors into your space is through colour. “Consider a hue like October Mist CC-550 (pictured above), our colour of the year for 2022,” says Grech. “Inspired by the stem of a flower, this colour is the perfect support for other hues in a room and is an inspiring and soothing colour that looks beautiful with a variety of styles.” Not ready to repaint a full room? Repainting a piece of furniture, such as an accent table or just the legs of your dining table or desk with Advance interior paint, can help bring subtle hints of colour to a more neutral space.
Taking inspiration from nature gives us permission to be comfortable with the imperfections in our homes. “Give any room a natural and relaxed feel by choosing textiles like linen that look their most inviting when creased,” suggests Grech.
To bring a true feeling of nature into any room, look for ways to bring organic touches into your space. “Simple arrangements of greens can be a striking and stylish way to add colour,” says Grech. “As a bonus, greens can be a much more affordable alternative to traditional bouquets that focus on blooms.” When you’re furnishing a space inspired by the outdoors, choose materials that evoke nature, such as wood, wicker and rattan.
Freshen up your living space for spring by pairing a coloured sofa with a patterned rug in similar tones.
Sven velvet SOFA in pacific blue. $1,979. article.com Hillsby Oriental Blue/Orange area RUG by Mistana. From $79. wayfair.ca
Eve LOVE SEAT in aspen mist. $2,049. eq3.com
Tofino RUG in multicolour. From $500. eq3.com
Fany tufted three-seater SOFA in purple and pink. $699. structube.com Koweit RUG in pink. structube.com
Earthy fungi are having a design moment, and we can see why. With the rise of forest bathing, foraging and all things biophilia, people are connecting with nature more than ever before. We’ve seen the trend of plants (We’re talking about you, Monstera!) and wildflowers for a while, so, it’s no surprise that mushroom motifs are trending. The variety of mushroom shapes and colours make them an interesting design detail on wallpaper, cushions and wall art.
Mushroom garden WALLPAPER
Starting at $12. mooseaccents.com |
Mushroom punch needle PILLOW. $25. lushandfound.com
1 3 4 2
From apparel to decor, black and white checkerboard print is cool and confident – a design you’ll be noticing this year.
1. Black and ivory checkerboard RUG. $15. simons.ca | 2. Ren large PILLOW. $99 | 3. POUF. $199. article.com| 4. Checkerboard SLIP-ON, women by Vans. $70. simons.ca.
“As we move into a world of unprecedented change, the selection of Pantone 17-3938 Very Peri brings a novel perspective and vision of the trusted and beloved blue colour family, encompassing the qualities of the blues, yet at the same with its violet red undertone, Pantone 17-3938 Very Peri displays a spritely, joyus attitude and dynamic presence that encourages courageous creativity and imaginative expression.”
– Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute
These pillow covers are handcrafted, sustainably sourced and come in a variety of muted shades.
1. 600 thread count Egyptian cotton four-piece SHEET SET in dusty purple. $250 to $290. thebay.com | 2. Cordless IRON with non-stick sole by Black + Decker. $60. thebay.com | 3. Ball animal 2 pro upright VACUUM in purple by Dyson. $700. bedbathandbeyond.ca
Le Creuset introduces shell pink as the latest hue in its colourful palette of enamelled cookware. “We felt Shell Pink to be the perfect shade of pink,” says Sarin Keusseyan, commercial director at Le Creuset Canada. “Continuously among our most in-demand hues, we knew this would be the colour Le Creuset fans would surely appreciate. lecreuset.ca
by SARA DUCK
Who doesn’t love the warm ambience of a fireplace? Fireplaces have long held a significant place in the hearts of many Canadians. They were once essential to everyday life, providing warmth and a place to cook. These days, fireplaces signify cosy comfort, a place to perch with family and friends, a focal point in a room that brings everyone together.
Are you planning a fireplace reno this year? Maybe you want to take your love of flicker and flames and incorporate it in unexpected rooms such as the dining room or the bedroom. You’re in luck!
CHICAGO CORNER
40LE Gas Fireplace
Regency, a world leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of hearth products, has introduced its City Series of gas fireplaces boasting cutting edge contemporary design and quality. The City Series gives you the creative freedom to apply any finishing materials to the edge of a clean line gas fireplace. Available as one-sided, two-sided and three-sided fireplaces in a variety of configurations; the City Series meets all the needs of today’s modern homes and modern designer fireplace needs. With extralarge glass viewing areas and unlimited finishing options, direct vent gas fireplaces offer the ultimate flexible installation options, remote activation, and more. Exclusive
did you know?
Direct vent gas fireplaces do not require a chimney and instead can be vented directly through a wall or the roof. This allows more flexibility in the installation of gas fireplaces and the ability to add a gas fireplace to almost any room in your home.
Renew your living space
Transform your old, outdated fireplace into a sleek, elegant and modern centrepiece.
Add comfort and warmth
technology, including the Cool Wall System, has unlocked a whole new world of fireplace design possibilities. Cool Wall System transfers heat away from the wall surrounding the fireplace and enables combustible finishes such as wallpaper and wood to be placed to the edge of the fireplace. In addition, art, TVs and other electronics can be safely mounted directly above the fireplace without the need for heat barriers (mantels). These modern fireplaces are sure to light up the look and feel of any room.
Direct vent gas fireplaces allow you to add a fireplace where one never existed before. Add the warmth, comfort and convenience of a gas fireplace to virtually any room in your home.
Minimal renovations
Gas fireplaces can also be built into a wall with minimal renovations.
Power’s out, heat’s on
No power needed! If you lose power, a Regency gas fireplace will continue to safely produce radiant heat. If a winter storm knocks out power there is no need to worry – you’ll still be nice and warm, even if you are in the dark.
Advanced remote control
Create optimal comfort with ease and convenience at the touch of a button with the Regency Comfort Control System. The user-friendly controls can be set, adjusted and programmed for your fireplace to come on at the temperature you want, when you want it. 1 2 3 4 5
by SARA DUCK • photos
BRANDON BARRÉ
Toronto-based art studio Moss & Lam was commissioned by the hotel to create a handmade art installation. Intricately designed out of paper to mimic loon feathers, the piece hangs above the lobby’s front desk.
100-per-cent organic linens
The design palette takes inspiration from the muted colours of Lake Ontario and the contrasting colours of the passing seasons. The guest rooms were designed to feel like a lakeside escape. The rooms feature reclaimed timber, native plants, board-formed concrete and local marble. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide maximum light in the day, reducing energy use for lighting.
Knixhult pendant LAMP in bamboo. $50. ikea.ca
Extensive use of regional sourced materials includes hand-selected limestone and granite from local quarries.
From $1,799. westelm.ca
All restaurant kitchens adhere to stringent compost and zerowaste practices
1 Hotel Toronto offers five dining concepts, each with its distinct culinary offerings and experiences. While each location has its own atmosphere, they all share the same approach to celebrating fresh Ontariogrown ingredients and sustainable practices.
Approximately 3,300 plants are cultivated by International Landscaping throughout the interior and exterior of the hotel. Local woodworking studio Just Be Woodsy transformed fallen Toronto trees into more than 1,000 pieces of hand-crafted one-of-a-kind furnishings such as dining tables, grazing boards, host desks and side tables. These can be found throughout the hotel.
Tria grey marble console TABLE. $2,599. cb2.ca
Hudson drink TABLE walnut. $179. westelm.ca
Snake PLANT Laurentii. $28. tonicblooms.com
5 1
4 3 2
1. Papineau shoulder HANDBAG by Veinage. $249. simons.ca | 2. Rib-knit turtleneck DRESS $50. hm.com | 3. Faux leather gold moto JACKET. $199. marshalls.ca | 4. Halfmoon split BRACELET in black. $105. obakki.com | 5. Women’s tree RUNNERS. $135. allbirds.ca
The property’s biophilic design was done in collaboration with awardwinning architecture and design firm, Rockwell Group, and project managed by The Athens Group, which specializes in the development of environmentally conscious upscale hospitality properties.
For more information, visit 1hotels.com
Ecoway is committed to healthy living and to the environment. That is why the company has created a line of bidet toilets that combine eco-friendly technology with luxe designs and affordable pricing. These bidet toilets feature state-of-the-art technology and are created using an innovative manufacturing process that makes it possible for every homeowner to experience the luxury of a bidet while reaping the benefits of prioritizing the environment.
It’s estimated that bidet toilets can reduce a household’s toilet paper consumption by approximately 75 per cent
These standalone smart toilet systems make a stylish statement in any modern bathroom decor
Approximately 27,000 trees are flushed down the toilet every day, and the average person consumes approximately 20,000 sheets – or 100 rolls – of toilet paper every year. Moreover, the manufacturing process consumes approximately 140 litres of water per roll of toilet paper produced.
Bidets reduce irritation, germ spread, and can even make your bathroom more accessible to people who have difficulty using traditional toilet paper.
To find out more visit eco-way.ca
out
by EMILY STAUNTON
“Home” means more to us now than ever before. It’s where we live, work, learn and play. It’s where we run to share big wins, to lick our wounds and to dream. It just so happens that the 2022 colour of the year is a hue of many different moods. Green was the common choice among the world’s top colour influencers, and a very deliberate one at that. Green is often associated with growth and renewal, calmness and connection to the Earth and self – something many of us have been seeking more of, given recent global events.
From cool, misty tones to warm, mossy neutrals, you’ll see many variations of this hot hue in every room of the home, from kitchens and living rooms to bedrooms and baths. So, expect to see it gracing walls, furniture, cabinetry, even doors and trim.
So, what’s behind the big push toward green in 2022? This trend largely stems from a heightened environmental consciousness and organic living as a leading lifestyle trend. And thus, this colour comes to the forefront of home design and decor, reflected in trending colour palettes and other elements such as natural materials and textural, organic fabrics. Fittingly, these are perfectly complemented by virtually any shade of green – nature’s neutral.
The new year brings the promise of a fresh start. So, as you look forward to a refresh, give your home the benefits of one as well. We know that colour influences how we live, but it’s also inspired by how we live and what is happening in the world around us. With this in mind, green is a logical and beautiful choice that’s sure to make your friends and neighbours green with envy!
is another warm iteration of green, tending to the colour continuum’s deeper, richer, earthier side. This shade is nature personified, grounded and comforting, and as the brand itself describes it, “healing.” To me, this shade fosters introspection and reflection, making it a perfect choice for a home office, den or library, where you tend to keep your head down, and your attention turned inward.
is a bright, white-green colour that packs quite a punch despite its light hue. It’s crisp and bright, inspiring creativity, energy and life – an excellent choice for a kitchen or home office. Pair it with high-contrast black accents to create drama and call attention to the details.
is a mid-tone green that moves away from the cooler side of the spectrum in favour of a warmer, earthier aesthetic. This hue is rooted in nature, with a welcoming familiarity that makes residents and guests alike feel right at home – a popular choice for exterior details, front entrances, and living and dining areas. Layer this hue with other complementary organic colours, such as beige, cognac and deep brown, for a cosy ambience.
is a slightly darker but still barely-there whisper of sage, evocative of freshness and tranquillity. This cool, silverygreen hue is a great neutral alternative for the person who thinks off-white and grey are all played out. It’s easy to pair with other neutrals or a bold colour counterpart, such as fuchsia or emerald green. October Mist, or other colours like it, will be a popular choice in living areas and bedrooms, inspiring a sense of calm in areas where we often seek refuge.
by BILHA KANGETHE
Three easy ways to make your home purchases earth-conscious
Cl imate change, the pandemic and various environmental challenges have heavily influenced conversations about sustainability around the globe and even in the design world. As a result, builders, architects,
homeowners and designers now more than ever are intentionally incorporating sustainable materials into the design of homes. These changes can positively affect the world, as we all come together to do our part to heal the earth. Here are three ways consumers are
making their home decor purchases more sustainable.
You have likely heard of the term “fast fashion.” But are you familiar with “fast
furniture”? It’s a term for home goods companies that manufacture many different styles quickly and cheaply. As a result, more than 10 million tons of furniture waste end up in landfills annually in Canada and the United States. While many factors have affected the rise of “fast furniture,” there is also increased awareness of hyper-consumerism, prompting many to think about investing in home pieces that will last longer. In addition, from a consumer standpoint, I’ve noticed a shift in consumerism, especially in interiors, with the rise of the minimalism trend.
There is also increased awareness of hyper-consumerism, prompting many to think about investing in home pieces that will last longer
Inspired by the Japandi, Scandinavian and Mid-century modern styles, this new hybrid style highlights a “less is more” approach, and many homeowners are getting on board. There is no doubt that the pandemic affected our view on the functionality of our homes. With so much extra time at home, homeowners focused on creating spaces that were de-cluttered, functional and cosy, with an emphasis on bringing the outdoors inside. Hello plants in every room!
Designers and homeowners are helping reduce their carbon footprint by purchasing eco-friendly furniture, decor and fabric. Everything from rattan, jute, bamboo, cork, recycled plastics and reclaimed wood to organic fabrics such as cotton, wool, silk and linen make responsible, ecoconscious decisions that honour quality and style.
by
SARA DUCK
There is an art to designing a great space, so we asked our experts to dish on the fundamentals of creating the perfect living room
When choosing furniture for the living room, it’s important to begin with a few questions: What activities will be taking place in this space? Watching TV, reading, homework with kids? Will it be a multi-zone space? What are lighting requirements? Upon confirming the needs and requirements, the next step is to start with furniture that promotes ultimate comfort. Then choose statements pieces (art and sculptural lighting) – these can be fun and exciting to bring visual depth and personality to the space and make it truly unique.
– Designer Diana Rose, Diana Rose Design
There’s no need to spend a fortune on decorative objects to achieve a high-end look in your living room. I’m always amazed at the quality of coffee table books, trays and trinkets you can find at thrift stores. And why not “shop your house” for family heirlooms, art and other special items that can be repurposed in a new way?
– Blogger and designer Candace Alongi, The Minted Mama
To me, no living room is complete without including some pillows that bring extra comfort, as well as style and personality. If your room already has a lot of patterns from the sofa, window treatments or floor coverings, then you can select pillow fabrics that are quieter. Use your pillow selection to pull together other elements in the room, creating a cohesive colour palette. The pillows should complement the sofa or chair they are placed on. An easy formula is to pick one small print/pattern, one large pattern, and one solid. Your busy and large print should be on your largest pillows, or the pillow that is front and centre, as this print will usually set the tone of the arrangement. – Designer Laura Hay, Laura Hay Decor & Design 4
Warm up the wood floors in your living room by adding a beautiful accent rug. When selecting carpeting for a living room, fabric selection is important. Wool fabric is great for its durability and soft feel. Consider your colour scheme and use the rug as an accent to complement your space.
– Designer Brenda Danso, Brenda Danso Interior Design
When deciding on the right type of window treatments for your livingroom, consider your needs first. For instance, if your room lets in a lot of natural light or is visible to your surrounding neighbours, I suggest having a privacy blind installed. This can be in the form of a roller shade or silhouettes. This type of window treatment helps to diffuse light and provide privacy; however, I often don’t stop there, as this style is most often functional and not decorative. On top of privacy shades, especially in a living room space, I like to add drapery panels to impart a decorative element to the windows. These panels can be stationary to frame the sides of the windows, or operational to allow you to move them back and forth whenever needed.
– Designer Jennifer Backstein, Jennifer Backstein Interiors
If you’re looking to achieve a warm and cosy vibe, select heavier weighted fabrics such as wools, cottons and cotton blends. For a glamourous, elegant vibe, choose lighter weighted fabrics such as silks, linens and sheers. tip:
When selecting a neutral paint for your living room, you really want to keep in mind the overall undertone of your space. If you’re decorating with richer reds and yellows, you’ll want to choose a neutral with a warmer undertone and subtle hints of yellow. If you are incorporating blues, purples and other darker colours in your space, then you’ll want a neutral with a cooler undertone with hints of blue and grey.
– Designers Louis Duncan-He and Madelaine Moss, Louis Duncan-He Designs
Firstly, choose a fireplace that matches your design aesthetic. In a modern home, a linear fireplace built into a feature wall keeps things simple and stunning. In a traditional home, you may want to opt for a fireplace that will fit into a mantel. There are many different types of fireplaces available from gas and electric to wood burning and biofuel. Do your research to make sure you pick the one that best suits your needs.
– Designer Trisha Isabey, Isabey Interiors
When it comes to selecting the appropriate lighting for your living room, it can be tricky! If you have a formal space designed for gathering and conversation, we love a good statement piece. We must give credit to our clients, White Orchid Homes, for selecting the fixture in this project. The oversized glass ceiling light gives this room a sense of opulence.
– Designer Jessica Cinnamon, Jessica Cinnamon Design
HybriQ+® and HybriQ Technology® are registered Cosentino brands. The Ethereal Collection features patented designs and technologies. The Ethereal Collection was developed with ® technology and contains a minimum of 20% recycl ed mat erials.
by LUCA CAMPACCI
A petite pad is turned into an inviting home
Our Met Condo Project took a one-bedroom plus den condo and renovated the space for a client who loves to entertain and knows how to mix a great cocktail. She wanted to maximize the 624-sq.-ft. space and provide functionality for entertaining. We checked off her requests while using pops of earthy pink, complemented by purple and green accents throughout.
Starting in the living room, we placed a wide media unit with tons of storage opposite a deep sofa/ chaise combo, perfect for spending a cosy night in or hosting friends.
Smaller side tables and accents complete the look and are grounded by a large area rug, making the space feel bigger.
Our client requested a bar cart, which would have been a constant obstacle in the small space. Instead, mounting a long, shallow wall unit along the hallway provides a home for bottles, cocktail supplies, and bar accessories while leaving a surface to mix drinks and keep the limited kitchen counter space free when entertaining.
A round counter height table doubles as extra space for meal prep in the L-shaped kitchen, and is surrounded by sleek chairs covered in purple wool.
The den proved to be a tricky space that needed to serve as both an office and a bedroom for the occasional overnight guest. We selected an L-shaped desk with wall mounted storage overhead, both open and closed, to showcase some of her personality and bring in some greenery. A lounger that becomes a single bed provides a snug spot for visiting guests.
In the bedroom, we maximized every square inch, while keeping a light and airy feel. The queen sized bed fits comfortably with brass and
white end tables on either side. Painted panels provide a costeffective detail that frames the end tables and bed perfectly.
The accent furniture is small in footprint and lightweight. Therefore, it had to possess the versatility to move around as required and serve multiple functions.
In addition to a clever layout, we installed smart switches, plugs and Google products, to create an interactive and perfectly synced space for our client’s busy life.
Luca Campacci and Vinh Le are Interior Designers at their design firm Level-Studio. They are interested in telling client’s stories through design and setting the stage for their life to unfold. levelstudio.ca
Designer Kate Davidson shares some helpful advice to maximize your small home
Small spaces have become the norm, as real estate values continue to rise and people recognize the economic and environmental benefits of compact living. From a design perspective, my clients approach their small space in two ways: To make it appear larger, or accept and appreciate its compact, cosy attributes. The challenges of decorating and living in a small
area are real, but they’re not insurmountable. Here are some tips to make the most of every inch, with examples of how I put these principles into practice.
There are a few tricks for living larger than your square footage may dictate on paper. Start by decluttering. Nothing makes a home feel cramped like an onslaught of
stuff. Evaluate everything. If you don’t love it or haven’t used it in the past six months, except for seasonal items, get rid of it. You can sell or donate gently used items and recycle or trash the rest. Then, explore storage solutions to tackle everything you intend to keep.
Storage is an industry with no shortage of custom and off-the-shelf products to tackle clutter, from shelves and cabinets, storage baskets and boxes, and multi-functional furniture.
Beyond storage, some decorating strategies can create the illusion of space. Start by painting the walls in a light, neutral colour. Lighter colours make the walls appear further away, thus enhancing the sense of space, while darker hues tend to pull them in. This trick applies to large-scale furnishings and floor coverings, as well. While we’re on the subject of light, maximize the natural light in the room by removing heavy window treatments. Then add mirrors to double the natural light visually. Beyond this, ensure you have sufficient lighting in the form of ambient (overhead) fixtures, task lighting and accent lighting. By brightening the space, you’ll increase its function and your perception of its size.
I applied these light principles in this space, which features continuous white walls and trim, with light furniture. The rug underfoot anchors the area while tying together the light and dark tones of the space. The wood furniture echoes the hardwood too. Here, less really is more, with minimal use of accessories and a focus on simplicity.
When choosing furniture, consider scale. It’s unlikely that a compact home has the room for a massive sectional or a huge dining table with seating for 12. Instead, choose pieces with slim silhouettes, lower profiles and legs that let light pass through. Also, look for furniture that has see-through and reflective
consider the scale
qualities, such as glass and chrome. The idea is to lighten their visual weight within the room.
Of course, I believe that small spaces are appealing. They offer several benefits: They’re easier to clean and organize; they cost less to finish, furnish and maintain; and have a warm, welcoming vibe that’s impossible to replicate in wide, open areas.
Don’t fight it. Instead, play up the cosy factor by focusing on softness and warmth – layer in lots of texture
by marrying materials such as natural wood, leather and various textiles. Cover the walls with dark, brooding paintings or photographs, and add dimmer switches on all light sources, allowing you to adjust the light level based on your activity and mood.
Your home may be short on square footage, but every small space offers endless opportunities. It just takes some creativity, an open mind and, at times, a little professional help!
With striking gold-finished legs, the Landry Sofa blends traditional style with modern sophisticated lines – creating something unique. The compact size makes it ideal for small space living, and is a definite headturner for any guests. Dimensions: 88 in. wide by 37 in. deep by 36 in. high (18.5 in. seat height). SHELTER FURNITURE | shelterfurniture.ca
Small space? No problem! Introducing the new Sequence, showcasing an open-concept feel and a more modern take on the alcove-style tub. What’s more, choose a newly released, compatible two-sided door from Fleurco’s most popular models. Create the oasis of your dreams, even with less space! FLEURCO | fleurco.com
In a world where you can be anything, why settle for ordinary? Serenity presents a geometrical game-changer, beautifully crafted and undeniably unique – the all-new Hex drain. Available in four trending finishes, including brushed gold and matte black. The perfect symmetry of this centre drain is not only aesthetically pleasing, it also boasts superior craftsmanship that can be relied upon for years to come.
SERENITY LUXURY | serenity.luxury
Discover amazing new design opportunities with the ultimate matte-black accent for your kitchen. Introducing the VINTERA 33, a contemporary farmhouse sink in Coal Black SILGRANIT. The VINTERA is spacious and sleek with a slim 6.5-in. apron and generous nine-in. bowl depth. The perfect sink for those who love bold design.
BLANCO | blanco.com
Words you wouldn’t typically use to describe a contractor. Until now.
At RenoMark, we want to change your outlook on renovation contractors. That’s why we developed a code of conduct that all our professional contractors follow, including a detailed written contract for every job, backed by a one-year warranty, and a guarantee that you’ll hear back within two business days.
To find a reliable, committed, responsive contractor, visit RenoMark.ca
by NANCY CHEMAIT & PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
by PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
The living room tells a story. And for the most part, it’s an autobiography; but its happily ever after, in most cases, starts with the floor
credits: Shellard Photography
The living room is one of the most visible rooms of the home, and with the prevailing popularity of the open concept plan on the main floor, it’s easily the one where your personal style can make the most impact.
In the past, the living room had a more formal function. It was called a sitting room, or a parlour, where homeowners receive guests. Today, it’s a bit more informal – and is largely the spot in the home where the family can gather to have fun.
In fact, the living room - in a single-family home, at least – isn’t just necessarily on the main floor. The bonus room on the second floor, or the entertainment space in the basement can also be termed as living rooms and designed as such to take on this function for family fun.
“The living room is a gathering place with comfortable furniture where the family can relax and watch a movie or gather to play board games or videogames,” says Rochelle Cote, the owner and principal of Rochelle Cote Interior Design.
“It can be any room where family, friends and guests can gather and be welcome and comfortable. In that sense, the living room can be in a developed basement, the bonus room upstairs or the free space of a bachelor suite.”
Rochelle should know. In a career in interior design that has spanned over a quarter century, she and her team at Rochelle Cote Interior Design have come up with some of the most captivating living room designs in the various homebuilder showhomes, and private residences in the city.
The living room is a gathering place with comfortable furniture where the family can relax and watch a movie or gather to play board games or videogames.
Her collaborations with Calbridge Homes for the Calgary Health Trust’s grand prize lottery homes have unfailingly captured the imaginations of many – and no doubt, have been a big part of the charity’s continued success. And in her opinion, the key to a compelling and dynamic living room design is selecting the “correct” area carpet.
“The area carpet can create a unique room regardless of the size. It also helps to bring the room together and group the furniture together so that it is all connected. This is the piece that is often forgotten, and without it the room feels cold. The area carpet adds warmth, colour and style!”
The area carpet does set the tone, style and mood of the room, but having hardwood floor as a base really sets the timbre for the entire home.
“The best flooring for a living room is still hardwood. It offers a nice clean palette is comfortable under foot and gives a warm feel. Area carpets offer that extra layer on the hardwood creating more warmth,” Rochelle tells R+D.
She is also a fan of the luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring, and she has used that mainly in the developed basements of her many lottery home projects. “Many of the lottery homes I worked on had walk-out basements that led directly to a lake or a river, so the LVP provides a lot of functionality in those cases, as they are easier to maintain.”
The open concept main floor blends the kitchen, dining room and living room into one big space, which is good for entertaining. “Yes, everyone still wants that open concept. However, many times the dining room
and the living room start to merge together when this happens. We often use a console table or area carpet to define the living room space,” she says.
Choosing the furniture for the living room will, of course, depend on taste, but scale plays an important role too. “I think that the furniture is a reflection of the client. It gives the home a comfortable elegance that is inviting and comfortable for their family.”
Having wall-to-wall windows sets off the living room nicely, of course. But even in smaller homes that don’t have this benefit, using drapery to frame the windows have the immediate effect of giving the room a softness and by drawing the eyes up, makes the room seem larger. “Using fabric gives any setting a more textured feel and helps achieve a more natural look,” she says.
The most controversial choice in designing a main floor living room has been the TV. Some people still don’t want the television in a room that is supposed to encourage conversation between people. But Rochelle thinks it’s high time to change this view.
“Many people fight the fact that TV is part of our lives. It provides information for businesses, and entertainment for the family. I place TVs above the fireplace all the time! If the client does not want the TV in the direct line of sight, we will place it to the side of the fireplace in a built-in,” she says.
Even with the slimmer, flat screen TVs of today, they can still be difficult to hide in the living room. “Either remove it altogether or look at TVs like the Samsung The Frame TV. You turn it on and it’s a TV, when you turn it off it displays art on the screen.”
She adds that if the client wants a TV above a fireplace, they need to look at the specs for the fireplace’s firebox itself. Follow the guidelines in the firebox’s specifications to determine how close it can be placed to a combustible product. From there, you can determine how high to mount the TV. We often set the firebox on the floor to ensure that the TV doesn’t end up too high.”
But TV or no, RCID has always worked to achieve the best results for its clients – whether that means attracting the casual showhome visitor or creating the essence of a livable, forever home for private residences. And emphasizing living in the living room is part of what they do best.
RCID describes the process to make the most of any living room.
• Create a strong CONCEPT (collate images together of spaces, colors or art that inspires you, and try to incorporate those ideas into your space)
• Select an Area Carpet that follows your concept
• Usually contrast a sofa to the carpet, and use lines for the sofa that follow the concept
• Select Accent Chairs
• Pull it together with a coffee table or set of tables (all tables should be 20-inches from the sofa or chair…that will determine your size required of coffee table in the space)
• Select all end tables (either side of sofa) and accent tables (for between two chairs)
• Select Lamps (edgy or soft) again to go with concept
• Select Toss Pillows (colors to work with concept or carpet) At least 2 on the sofa, and a lumbar for each of the accent chairs.
• Select all Art to pull everything together (or mirrors add to a small space; and create an open feel)
by Trisha isabey • photos Trevor Cooper
In my professional opinion, a well-designed home must meet two key criteria: the home (and everything in it) must be practical and aesthetically pleasing. These are two areas that I focus on when kicking off a new design project for my clients. Now, you might be thinking, “Just two criteria?” Don’t be fooled by your perceived simplicity of a number. A lot of planning goes into achieving fashion and function. One of them is scale.
The rules of scale apply to everything in the space, in relation to the space itself. Furniture, light fixtures, art and accessories all have to work within the proportions of a
room to achieve the perfect fit. When everything is scaled to the space, your home will feel like a well-tailored suit.
Pieces that are too large or too small can create visual awkwardness and physical inefficiencies. Here are three common victims of measuring missteps.
Area rugs don’t get the attention they deserve, and they’re certainly not a first focus for measure-minded folks. Big mistake! Area rugs are important because they define “zones” and anchor everything in them.
Oftentimes people will look at their space, complete with furniture in place, and “estimate”
the size of their rug requirements based on the empty area between the furnishings. The result is an ill-fitting rug that floats aimlessly between the sofa and chairs.
When choosing the right-sized rug, the furnishings of your zone–be it a conversation area in the living room or a small reading nook in the bedroom–should be large enough to accommodate at least the front legs of the furniture of that “zone.” For example, in the sitting area this might include a sofa and some chairs, a coffee table, a side table and maybe an ottoman. Ensure the rug isn’t butting up against the walls, leaving a gap or a few inches to create a border.
Have you heard of “table-scaping?” Try arranging accessories and collections in odd numbers–threes, fives or sevens. Place the tallest piece at the centre and work your way out.
Light fixtures are often measured incorrectly, in more ways than one. When choosing a light fixture, ensure it is not too small. Remember, lighting should be a focal point, so choose something that stands out, both in terms of style and scale.
Like area rugs, light fixtures help to define a living area, enhance a room’s function, and highlight its focal points. Choosing an appropriately sized fixture brings balance to the room–and yes, there’s simple a formula for that! Measure the length and width of the room in feet, add the two numbers and the result, expressed in inches, is the ideal size of your light fixture. For example, a room that is 10 ft. wide by 20 ft. long would be best suited to a fixture that measures 30 inches in diameter. If you’re choosing a fixture to hang over a table, measure the table in inches and subtract 12, which gives you the ideal diameter for your chandelier or pendant.
The second scale slip-up occurs when determining the height of suspension. As a general rule, the fixture should hang three ft. above a tabletop or six ft. from the floor.
Last but not least, art and accessories are often over- or underestimated, leaving them looking inadequate and ineffectual.
In an effort to achieve a clean and uncluttered space, people often “go small” when it comes to their decor. The result is decor that falls short on size and visual effect. The secret to success is to be selective in your decor. Limit the number of pieces and ensure they’re big enough to make an impression.
When visiting a furniture showroom, be mindful that these spaces
typically have high ceilings and vast floor area can be deceiving, so don’t trust yourself to “just eyeball it.” Advanced planning is essential, and a tape measure your best friend.
Sketch out the room, making note of room dimensions, ceiling height, doorways, windows, focal points, and paths of traffic. While you’re at it, be sure to measure hallways, doorways, and elevators to ensure your furniture will fit through when it is delivered. Then, get some tape and delineate where your furniture will be placed and how big each piece should realistically be. Then, shop with measurements in hand.
Work with a professional designer to ensure all your selections “measure up” in every regard. When it comes to your home, make no compromises. Trisha Isabey is the Creative Director and Principal Designer for award winning Isabey Interiors. Her much sought-after design team offers a
by C. MARIE HEBSON
Before you can make any drastic decisions about decorating your living space, you’ll want to have an accurate sense of its square footage. Proper measurements will ensure you select the correct size rug, furnishings, and window treatments.
Determining the way in which you wish to live in your living room will significantly shape the decorating process. Critical to understand what your using the space for, living, working, entertaining, hobbies etc. and most importantly, bringing your personality into the decor.
Do you feel more modern farmhouse, or more contemporary? Or are you a mix of the two? Collect your top 5–10 images of interior design, and ensure that rooms flow easily from one to the next – especially in a more public space like the living room.
Collect images of your favourite finds when shopping online, or from magazines. Ensure that there is a cohesive flow and mix of tones, texture and colours, furniture styles, area rugs and drapery style.
Furniture can be quite pricey, so steps 1–4 are important to know what style your after, then colour, texture come into play – with a furniture space plan, eliminates costly mistakes and don’t forget to measure your front door to be sure you can get your new purchases into your space!
Walls are always a great opportunity to add more character to the room, whether it be tile, wallpaper, shelving or a fireplace – be sure you know exactly what’s going where before you buy and integrate art with your area rug and toss cushions.
Plants make for the perfect finishing touch in any living room. Greenery adds life and freshness to any room without breaking the bank.
1145 Kensington Cr. NW, Calgary | 15 Fisher Crescent #2, Okotoks 403-560-0964
“Every cloud has a silver lining” may be a tired, old cliché, but in The Hidden Gem’s case it’s the solid truth.
The Covid-19 pandemic that upended lives around the world proved to be the inspiration for Vic Tipper to start what has now become the fastest growing local indoor market chain in the greater Calgary area – The Hidden Gem. “My home renovation busines lost four major contracts in the first wave of the pandemic. And with six young kids, my wife, Brandy, and I knew we had to do something to support the family,” Tipper says.
He started out making outdoor furniture from disused wooden pallets and selling them on the lawn in front of his home just outside of Okotoks. Its success took them by surprise, and they soon realized they needed a bigger place to sell his recycled wood furniture. And then it hit him, maybe others going through similar circumstances can benefit from a shared space that they can sell their wares from. Thus, was born The Hidden Gem.
The first store opened in Okotoks, 20 minutes south of Calgary, on July 1, 2020, and the second store in Kensington, just outside downtown
Calgary, five months later. “A third is opening soon,” Vic tells R+D.
The Okotoks store has around 3,500 square-feet of space with over 100 vendors, while the Kensington branch is at 1,500 square-feet with 60 sellers. They both offer some of the most unique, artisan, handmade products in town with everything from designer jewelry, home décor, art, clothing, fresh food and more.
This family owned and operated market was always meant to support local makers and artisans sell their handcrafted goods. “Almost all the vendors we have share a similar story as mine, many have found a second career here.”
Renovating your home should be a positive experience –free from worry and stress. You should have full confidence in your renovator and know that you are getting the best. That’s why you should choose a professional renovator.
A professional renovator will help you to put it all together – from ideas to design, products to plans, and construction to completion.
A professional renovator has the experience and knowledge to help turn your ideas into great results. They listen, make suggestions, and look for the best way of doing things.
renovators know what it takes to do something right and how much it costs, and they’ll tell you upfront
Professional renovators understand construction, how to deal with challenges and problems, and how to improve the comfort of your home.
Behind every professional renovator there is a solid network of staff, subtrades and suppliers ready to go to work for you.
Their business is an open book. You are invited to talk with past customers, look at their previous work and check out their reputation.
No need to be concerned about low-ball costing, inferior work or escalating prices once the job begins. Experienced renovators
Courtesy of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association
know what it takes to do something right and how much it costs, and they’ll tell you upfront.
Trust alone is not enough. Professionals back it up with a written contract that spells your project out in detail –what, how, who, when and how much.
Better safe than sorry. In the unlikely event of an accident or damage to your own or neighbouring properties, a professional renovator’s coverage protects you from liability and cost.
Like any other consumer purchase, a professional renovation comes with a warranty on labour. And with professional installation, there is no risk of voiding the manufacturers’ warranties on materials and products.
Professional renovators are in business for the long term. They work hard to earn your trust and make every renovation a great experience.
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