Outdoor Garden Accessories
Get Out and Accessorize!
We all know how finding that right accessory can make that perfect outfit of provide a great focal point in an interior space. Accessorizing isn't limited to wardrobes and spaces within your home though; this premise also holds true for your outdoor living area. In the summer months, we spend much more time outside, entertaining, or just relaxing. The proper accessories can make our yards more inviting and a reflection of our personality.
Functionality, comfort, and beauty can easily co-exist with the strategic addition of various items that have a spiritual connection to what you love as well as quality made so it will last. There are always the necessities of seating, a deck/dining area, shelter from the sun like an awning or umbrella; but it's the finishing touches that make it your own and uniquely you. For example, I love gardening, so plants and flowers are a priority for me. In addition to those I plant in the ground, I adore using vibrant and contemporary pots and planters for my annuals, which I can strategically place throughout my garden for pops of colour. There are now lightweight pots that are UV resistant and frost proof like the ones I use from Pacific Rim Brackets (available at Sheridan Nurseries, Terra Greenhouses and better garden centres). A new trend is also using prominent, tall, cylinder pots and also those that come in bright, vivid colours.
Everyone needs that special outdoor area to call their own, a sanctuary. I enjoy relaxing and reading a good book in my backyard retreat, my special place is swaying in my hammock under the shade of my pergola. I'm kind of a hammock veteran and been through many over the years, my favourites are the combos offered by Vivere Ltd., sold on Costco.ca, they offer hammocks with stands (because not everyone has perfectly spaced trees), they are available in wonderful Sunbrella fabrics that will last in any weather, summer after summer, and the snuggle design makes it so comfortable.
Another key element that is a necessity is a water feature. I love the babbling sound of water lapping over rocks and the beautiful birds that come to enjoy a refreshing dip. There are amazing, decorative birdfeeders to attract various species, personally I have an affinity for hummingbird feeders and catch quick glimpses of the tiny birds.
Your outdoor space is also ideal for displaying art and inspiration. Hanging outdoor artwork or clocks is a great way to soften an exterior wall or fence. Sculptures and decorative stones, with inspirational words or faith based, are an uplifting way to incorporate important reminders of what brings you peace. The outdoors is our connection to nature and the more welcoming we make it, the more time we'll spend out there enjoying it.
Renew your Christmas Wreaths
Renew and repurpose your old Christmas wreaths with these easy and fresh ideas for 8 various styles for the holiday season. All of these wreaths were done for under $15 by reusing old ones found at thirft stores by adding the to eh base of the wreath and then using ornaments and Christmas decor to create a colour or decor theme. Hope you are inspired to reduce and resuse and Merry Christmas!
Decor Tips to Create an Urban Living Space
Urban Living Home By Jackie Morra at the Toronto National Home Show
How do you make an urban small space feel bigger and more open with decor ?
I find that sometimes you have to be physically in the space to truly see the recommendations come to life. Firstly, the proper use of paint is essential, use similar tones in the wall colours and large furniture pieces to create a more subtle transition. It's also great to use more contemporary, light colours with different paint sheens and finishes, and murals like the one below of a concrete wall or barn board in the dining room, then use bolder colours and textures in the fabrics and accessories. Room layout is also a common issue, making sure furniture is to scale and traffic flow is optimized. Sometimes less is more, only have pieces of furniture that serve a purpose and preferably multifunctional. Minimalism is definitely underrated, reducing clutter and being organized is a necessity in smaller spaces. I also think proper lighting goes a long way, the space must be well lit to avoid dark corners which only makes the room appear smaller. Start with something you love and build the space around it and if you dont love it live without it! For more ideas on urban living spaces visit the 900 square foot condo layout I created for the National Home Show at http://www.jackiemorrainteriors.com/urban-living/urban-living-home-toronto
Top 10 Decorating & Design Questions
I am not afraid to use color, but how can I appropriately use bold/bright hues without overwhelming people?
Start small with bold colours trying one accent wall or even a few accessories such accent pillows, a lamp shade, a throw or artwork that has the bold colour in it. If you love the colour you will embrace wanting more of how it makes you feel. It is the emotional connection to the colour that is vital.
Chalkboard Paint & Trends
The Benjamin Moore Chalkboard Paint is a latex paint, tintable to any colour, that turns virtually any interior surface into a chalkboard. It is easy to apply, dries in a matter of hours to a durable eggshell finish, is easy to clean and fully washable. It also is formulated to minimize any lingering odours, making it ideal for a child's playroom, bedroom or even the kitchen as a message centre for shopping lists and household reminders.
