Bathrooms (and kitchens), are often the most complicated home renovation projects. Plumbing must be taken into account and each space has its own special needs. Here are a few tips about the selection of the bathroom sink:

Sinks:
Basic Categories: wall-mount/semi-pedestal, pedestal and vanity basins. Vanity basins can be vessel style (like a bowl on top of the vanity), drop-in or undermount.

Materials: glass, metal, china and resin compounds. Some other variations include concrete and soapstone.

Common North-American Sizes:
Drop-in/Self-rimming Vanity Basins: from about 13”w x 18”d to 33”w x 20”d
Undermount Vanity Basins: from about 15”w X 12”d to 25”w x 19”d
Pedestals: from about 20”w x 14”d x 32”h to 33”w x 24”d x 35"h
Wall-mounts/semi-pedestals: from about 17”w x 13”d to 39”w x 23”d

If you are working with a very petite bathroom, you may have to look to European or Japanese designs to go even smaller. Some modern units include built in counter space, towel racks and drawers. Just be sure that the proper installation hook-ups are available in North America. Check www.catalano.it/en/index.php and www.duravit.com for good examples.


An example of a resin composite modern sink from Design Within Reach. It is wall-mounted, a scant 12.5” deep and at 30” long, some built-in counter space is possible.

Vanities: console bases, floor-standing or wall-mount cupboard units are available.

A converted furniture piece can make a truly unique variation. Make sure that the top is deep enough for sink and faucet. For example, if the piece is 18” deep, the smallest Kohler undermount sink (12” x 14”) will allow the mounting of a single-hole faucet off to the side of the basin. Check with your contractor, designer or stone-cutter if you are in doubt.


This antique with marble top and drawers is an example of a suitable furniture piece to convert into a unique vanity. Picture taken at Horsefeathers Home on Castlefield Avenue in Toronto.

In 2009 natural and eco-conscious influences made green a very popular colour. In 2010, greens get fresher in shades of aquamarine and turquoise reminiscent of coastal waters.

Purples of all sorts are popular right now. Amethyst, deep purple and smoky lavender are variations of this trend.



Grey is predicted to overcome brown as a preferred neutral this year. A soft colour scheme with layers of ivories and greys is a very pretty option.



Grey is also suggested as a good foil for the current brights:

20 Favourite Christmas Decorating Ideas...

Nature:
1) Use small trees that can be planted outdoors after the holidays.

2) Bring the beauty of the season inside by using natural materials. Try boxwood, pinecones and evergreen boughs.

3) Invest in fresh flowers. Red or white roses, poinsettias, even carnations, can make stunning, simple decorative touches.

4) Use nature for inspiration. I love the snowflake theme and hand-cut paper snowflakes are easy, charming & kid-friendly. If you’ve forgotten, see http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/snowflake-decorations#slide_2 for a demonstration on how to make them.

5) Take a walk in a near-by park. While there, pick some beautiful dried grasses & bring them home. Place them in a seasonal vase.

Handmade:
6) Combine social function & gift-giving -- have a cookie swap party. Everyone makes their favourite cookies & exchanges dozens.

7) Hang the sugar cookies or gingerbread on the tree afterwords.

8) Purchase decor from local crafts-people and artisans. I love Pilo, http://www.pilo.ca/products.php?cat=5 who shows each year at the Toronto One-of-a-Kind show and sale.

9) Use your computer! Find or make printable tags, place holders, calendars and even ornaments. http:/www.Etsy.com is a good source for well-priced printable pdfs.

10) Two beautiful artsy ideas:
Use canvas or paper to punch out a pattern and put a light source behind your creation to cast interesting shadows. See http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/glow-and-behold#slide_4 for an example.
Create your own ornaments from scraps and findings. See Dresden Victorian creations http://www.victorianornaments.com/Make%20Ornament.html for an example.

Eco-Conscious:
11) Have fun with retro ornaments. Bring childhood favourites and hand-me-downs out of hiding.

12) Use tissue paper, reusable containers, leftover fabric, burlap, kraft paper and/or raffia for wrapping & decorating.

13) Think unusual for displays: cake-stands, china, chandelier prisms and collectables can all make beautiful decorations.

14) If you have a fireplace, it can make the best Christmasy focal point and warm the house up too!

15) Save the most gorgeous Christmas cards you receive and use in your decor.

Sweet & Simple:
16) I love white candles in gold candlesticks.

17) Ribbon used in inventive ways can dress almost anything up!

18) Sometimes a single lovely ornament, hung from a stand or placed in a dish is all you need.

19) Cosy throws, pillows or sheepskin add a warm, seasonal note.

20) Choose a colour theme (doesn’t have to be traditional) & use it throughout the season for decorating, wrapping and cards.

Scheme #1 - Pure & Simple Uses lots of white as a backdrop for colour. Combines well with simple floral arrangements and ornamental touches.

Scheme #2 - Naturals Reflects the trend to use things we might find in our gardens for Christmas decorating.

Scheme #3 - Plum An untraditional scheme using purples and plums is popular this year.

Getting Started
Antiques and collectables add beauty and individuality to today’s interiors. Inherited pieces can be given pride of place or seamlessly integrated into a more contemporary decor scheme. Pieces collected over time can be showcased or contribute subtly to a room’s overall feel.

In present day homes and condos, space is often at a premium. The creative challenge then, is how to keep antiques and collectables. The question becomes “to store or to display?”. One solution is to rotate collections so that some are in storage and some are enjoyed at any given time. That way, your collection is always fresh!

Types of Antiques & Collectables
First, consider the type of pieces that you have. Furniture and art are larger items and directly contribute to the decor and functionality of a home. These bigger pieces often work best as focal points or key accents in a room. Think, for example, of how lovely and unexpected a large scale print framed in antique gold and hung in an otherwise minimalist bathroom could be!

In a similar manner, a condo living room done in neutral colours with slip-covered sofa and chairs, could benefit from the warmth of wood - perhaps an antique chest of drawers. Using antique pieces can provide ingenious storage options. A piece of architectural salvage or an antique map could make an entirely unique work of art in either a traditional or a modern interior.
Leaded glass architectural salvage extended from ceiling on chain.
In the case of pieces on a smaller scale, they are often best displayed in multiples. For example, a collection of vintage kitchen utensils hung from a peg board or a set of blue and white china propped in a row on open shelving. Another option is to arrange them in a vignette with objects that share something in common with them. The common element could be colour, texture or even theme. The connection can be as loose as a painting in sepia tones pared with antique books whose weathered pages show the same soft colours.

Take stock of what you’ve collected. If they are potentially functional items, be open and creative about possible uses for them. If they are beautiful items, think of how best to show them and to enjoy them on a daily basis.

Types of Style
A second consideration when displaying antiques and collectables is the style of your space. A formal interior in a more traditional style can benefit from symmetrical arrangements. In this case, for example, a mantel-scape with two candelabras on either side of a turn-of-the-century clock could work comfortably. A pairing of more then one piece from the same time period works best in a formal environment. For example, a hall table, chair & mirror from the art deco period.

In a casual environment, single, unusual pieces used in unexpected ways can be lovely. For example, an old mill wheel used as a coffee table. Consider re-finishing or re-furbishing old pieces and putting them to new uses. An old washstand could house a new sink and make a character-filled addition to a bathroom
. Art Nouveau light in a contemporary sunroom.

At the other extreme, a maximalist casual environment chock-full and overflowing with collections can be striking. For example, a license plate collection covering an accent wall or a floor strewn with colourful rag rugs. The key here is that the object’s relate in some major way. The shapes could be similar, the colours could repeat, textures and materials could be similar (smooth or rough) or a clear theme, such as “hand-made” or “pop-art” could unite them. Even in a stripped-down condo environment, a collection displayed in mass, for example, a colourful assortment of road-signs, could be just the ticket to a unique and beautiful space.

Various Antique Farm Implements on Display in a Workroom.

Kitchen:
1 Use a mix of open and closed shelving. Group collections in displays according to type or colour.
2 Art in the kitchen, especially that referring to domestic chores, food or the outdoors, can make this room, which we spend so much time in, more pleasant to be in!
3 Install an old shelf or place a chimney cupboard in the corner to add interest to a standard cabinetry lay-out.

Bedroom:
1 Smaller collectables can be displayed in vignettes or groupings on bedside, vanity or dresser. Perfumes bottles on a mirrored tray for example.
2 Painted furniture pieces in wood, wicker or metal can add charm and work especially well with a country style.
3 In the bedroom, a large piece, such as a wardrobe or four-poster bed, can make an impression.

Living & Dining Room:
The feel of judicious accumulation over the years works especially well in these rooms.
1 Display architectural salvage or wall-mount an old textile for it’s beautiful texture.
2 Display an oil lamp collection on a side-board or light tapers in antique silver or brass candlesticks.
3 Consider converting a treasured object into a table or floor lamp and using it as part of your decor.

Furniture & Art:
1 Choose stand-out pieces as a room’s “anchor” or focal point.
2 Consider a new coat of paint or new hardware to freshen an old piece. Or, think of a new use for an old piece. For example, an antique cart as a small kitchen island or bar cart.
3 Buy multiple frames in the same style, install a picture rail (or 2, one placed above the other). Frame pages from an old botanical print book or magazine.

Depression glass & porcelain in a lighted cabinet.


Glass & Ceramics:
1 Display colourful on bottles, bowls & jugs on modern shelving. For example, a free-standing unit with square cubbies.
2 Install shelves across a window & place glass items on them so that the light winks through.
3 Decant modern products into old medicine bottles, test tubes or vanity containers. Be sure to remember which one you’ve poured the face cream in & which one you’ve poured the dish detergent in!

Linens & Jewelry:
1 Place a hook or two in a minimal decor scheme. Choose a stunning antique dress or kimono and hang it as a work of art.
2 Create simple curtains or cushions from vintage floral fabric for a romantic, shabby chic feel.
3 Fasten antique jewelry to a lampshade, affix to a fabric covered board or frame in a shadow box.
Don’t be afraid to wear your treasures if appropriate!

Books:
1 Install shelving over door frames, around the perimeter of a room at ceiling height or under stairs.
2 Create an artistic stack and use as a side table.
3 Consider arranging shelves according to the size or colour of books. Recover all displayed books in uniform “jackets”. Mix the displayed books with decor items.

Antiques as Investment Heirlooms

Antiques, if chosen well, can become valuable heirlooms. To help ensure that what you choose and purchase does gain value, take a look at the tips below:

1) Category - Make the category of antique you’re looking for as specific as possible. For example, choose to look for Arts n’ Crafts era Moorcroft pottery or English Regency era chairs (1795 – 1820).

2) Knowledge - Become an expert on that antique category. Take out library books, research online, check Ebay and auction listing catalogues. Post questions on appropriate forums and blogs.

3) Examples - Get out there and hunt for examples “in the flesh.” Go to antiques stores, estate sales, auctions and get a feel for what’s out there. Examine pieces closely. Ask questions of those around you.

4) Age – The age of a piece helps determine its value. Technically, an antique is 100 years old or more. In some places, the rule is 50+ years. The older the piece is, the more likely that the value is higher.

5) Rarity – That said, a 50-year-old piece that was created as a limited edition may have more value then a 100-year-old piece that was machine-made and mass-produced.

6) Authenticity – If you know the category well, you will know the details to look for to determine authenticity. For example, a cabinet made before 1870 is more then likely to have hand cut dovetail joints although European cabinet-makers used them through the 1930s. As a second example, a porcelain piece made pre 1800s will often have no markings save small, hand-written ones while the name of a country with a stamp indicates that the piece was produced after 1891.

7) Condition – Any alterations, repairs, chips or flaws immediately decrease the value of a piece. The original worn paint job on a 1840s’ pine cabinet makes it more valuable. An exception can occur with upholstered pieces. The “bones” or structure of a piece can stay strong while the fabric deteriorates at a faster rate. So, for example, a reupholstered original Louis XV chair will still have significant value.

8) Beauty – Make sure you love the piece you’re purchasing and will love to live with it. That way, it has immediate value!

9) Price - When you are ready to purchase, don’t look at the price. Evaluate the piece, determine if you love it, determine if it’s the best of its kind; and then, turn over the price tag!

10) Long-term – Once you have the piece, plan to keep it for the long-term. Care for it well, and as you both age, you’ll both increase in value!

Happy Hunting and live well with your antiques.

Q:How do I find appropriate chairs for my table?

A: The first thing to consider is...

the style of the table itself. Is it traditional or contemporary? Does it reference a particular time in history (e.g. Renaissance or Mid-century modern)? The choice of chair should harmonize with that style. That said, an exact, authentic match is not necessary. For example, a traditional oak table could be nice with simple, contemporary parsons chairs and a modern, dark veneer table could look striking with the same chairs. Or, a deliberate rule-breaking can take place. For example, one pairing I've seen lately involved a salvaged wood top placed on two modern metal bases with four chairs from entirely different time-periods. This pairing worked in the otherwise white on white environment with an eclectic, well-chosen mix of new and old furnishings.

A mid-century Modern Pairing


Modern Table, Parson's Chair & Traditional Table

A second criteria is the material and finish of the table. A wood table can be nice matched with wood chairs. Keep in mind that a close but not perfect match will likely look awkward and accidental. It may be more interesting to add texture with a rush seat or counterpoint the wood with modern, coloured chairs. Keep the materials and colours consistent with those in the room at large or use them to tie together disparate elements.

Wood Table with Wood Chairs; Wood Table with Modern Chairs


A third factor to consider is the shape and structure of the table. A contemporary table with chrome base may benefit from a graphically shaped chair in man-made materials. On the other hand, a wood, rectangular table could benefit from chairs covered in fabric to add some softness.


Contemporary Table & Chair; Traditional Table & Fabric Chairs

A number of chairs could work with any given table. Keep the table style, finish and structure in mind, be prepared to experiment, and you will strike the perfect pairing!

Answers:
Old - a, b, f, g, i, j
New - e, d, h
Either - c

There are a few ways to tell the difference between a truly retro piece and a reproduction. Plastics have improved over time and wood laminates appear more natural. Fabric is softer and more pliable. In addition, fasionable colourways and textures have changed. In contemporary pieces we see softer browns and greens and less bronzy golds. Textures are generally more natural and less obvious, smoother. As well, patterns and structures are often simplified.

Technology evolves as new discoveries and improvements are made. We've come a long way from quill and ink to computer keyboard! As technology evolves so does decor. The two meet in the form technology takes. Over time, there has been a general movement toward simplicity and compactness. Then again, "retro" is "in" and we can buy telephones, for example, that look like they did in the 30s but still function like their contemporaries.

See for yourself in the technology time-capsule below:

Colour: Try the seasons fresh colours: Citrus, Earth, Tranquil.

Light: Clean the windows & remove the curtains altogether! Or, hang some sheers.

Flowers: Treat yourself to cut flowers. Or, add some of the fabric kind.

Air: Open the windows! Place a chair near the one with your favourite view. Try a candle in a fresh scent like lavender or lemon.

Newness: Rotate your collections. Hang some new art or photos.

And don’t forget -- go outside!

Q: What do I need to acquire and hang a barn door in my interior?

A: Barn doors are becoming more prominent in decor magazines. They allow unusual sizes, save space and provide the convenience of a pocket door without having to break into the wall itself. In a space where the swing of a door interferes with furniture placement and traffic flow, a sliding barn door can be a great option.

You will need a way to hang it, a rail system (track, hangars, floor guide and optional safety stops). These range in price from about 200-2000. KN Crowder makes some quite affordable systems with plain aluminum tracks and clear hangers (available at Century Builder's Hardware). The rail can be wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted.

A floor guide ensures that the door runs smoothly in the upper track and the safety stop keeps the door from running off of the track.

Richelieu hardware provides higher end and modern-looking rail systems. On the other hand, Home Depot itself does not recommend the quality of their track barn door systems.

Standard door sizes run from about 6'6" - 7' X 1'6" X 3' and for the full effect of a barn door, you may need to special order an over-sized model. A 40" X 90" door with glass insets runs from about 300-700. The all-wood version runs from about 500-1000.

A sleek, modern option may be a simple, unpanelled wood, metal or have a small, geometric row of glass insets. To get some light flow through, some of a door's panels can be glass and some of wood.

The door can be made from salvaged barn wood or a beautiful vintage salvaged door. For ideas, check Porte Millet, (carried by Home Depot) or Madawasca, (carried by Fairbanks Lumber).

Finally, you may need handles for sliding the door open and closed. Door handles can be inset, lever or surface mounted.

Whatever design and hardware you choose, your barn door is a guaranteed unique touch for your interior!
Recommended shop: Century Builder's Hardware Ltd., 493 Dufferin Street, York, ON, 416-789-7061

We often buy a mirror because we're impressed with the frame. And, how often do we think about the glass that comes in pictures frames. Not until it breaks at least!

In fact, glass, in its many forms, can be the source of some very creative solutions and add unexpected beauty to home decor.

Recently, I've visited my favourite glass and mirror place several times. My reasons have ranged from replacing sliding mirrored doors to "fixing" a crooked mirror wall with vertical 2" beveled strips.

Some other good and creative uses for glass and mirror:

• fit to a table, desk or counter top to protect it and make it fully functional
• install in cabinets to allow a compromise between storage and display
• make a mirror out of a beautiful old frame
• re-face a tired piece of furniture with coloured glass or mirror

Featured shop: Canada Glass & Mirror
http://www.cgmirror.ca
1700 Jane St.
Toronto, Ontario, M9N 2S4
cgmirror@rogers.com
416.245.7032

Q- What is the most important thing I should do when staging to sell my home?

A- The most important thing, luckily enough, costs the least amount of money. It does, however, require some elbow grease! Simply put -- make sure your house sparkles.

Do a thorough cleaning (including washing walls and ceilings). Then, get really picky! Take a look at the details. Does your grout look grubby? Open all of the cupboard doors. Are your window runners dirt free? Does anything need a fresh coat of paint to really look clean? Do the white glove test.

And finally, does it smell clean? Eliminate any detectable odours including air fresheners and perfumes. What one person thinks smells good may turn another off.

Likely, after your efforts, your home will feel so good you’ll wonder why you hadn’t staged sooner!

Recommended Resources & Links:

Exterior Style by Benjamin Moore Paints
House & Home Give your home an Exterior Colour Facelift
Style at Home Streetwise First Impressions

Q- I notice that most of the kitchens in magazines right now have stainless steel appliances. How do I update my kitchen without replacing my white appliances? I’d like to incorporate some medium to dark natural wood.

A- Your white appliances have a classic look, but do appear less formal and modern then stainless steel. Putting dark or medium tone wood around the appliances will cause them to stand out. To minimize this effect, you could opt to build in your appliances so that they blend with the cabinetry -- being careful to follow safety regulations.

Almost any colour of painted cabinetry could work with white appliances. Painting the cabinetry around the appliances a light colour (being careful not to choose a white that competes with the white of the appliances) would lend a fresh, serene look to your kitchen.

Painting the cabinetry a medium to dark colour (gold or red, for example), could give a slightly informal, retro or un-fitted country look to your kitchen. Adding an island, upper cabinets or free-standing piece in un-painted wood will contribute to the unfitted look while allowing you to incorporate natural wood.

Pasted Graphic 3