by Guest

If you have a dark room that you are trying to light, you probably already know that it isn’t an easy task to accomplish. It’s important to understand how different light fixtures illuminate a space differently. This way you are sure to get the right lighting combination for your needs.

Some things to consider when choosing your lighting…

Paint and furniture color: If your room has very little natural light, you may want to choose a lighter color for the walls since they will reflect the light from the light fixtures better. To bring warmth into the room, and to help offset the brightness of the wall color, consider using furniture or carpeting with warmer tones.

Ambient Lighting: To be sure you have adequate overall lighting in the room; it’s good to install overhead lighting—for example, flush mount fixtures, track lighting, recessed lighting, etc. These lights can be hooked up to a dimmer switch so that they can be used brightly for tasks and entertaining, as well as dimmed for a more relaxed setting.

Accent Lighting: For when overhead lights aren’t enough, or maybe aren’t needed, we turn to Accent Lighting. Whether you are ready to settle in for the night, or want to highlight a certain part of your room, I suggest strategically placing Accent Lighting in your space. Many types of lighting fixtures can be used for Accent Lighting, depending on your needs. To highlight a picture, or maybe a shelving unit—wall lighting or picture lighting might be what you are looking for. For something more task-oriented like extra light for reading—you may consider table/floor Lamps or wall lighting.

Task Lighting: Sometimes the overhead lights and accent lighting aren’t enough. Instead, you need some lights that directly illuminate a workspace. This is especially useful in a kitchen, over a counter space, or in an office at the desk and computer. Under-Cabinet Lighting could be what you need. These lights are usually small, and can be unseen, and are very useful in illuminating a space directly. You could also use a desk lamp or pendant lighting for this purpose. It depends on the room you are working in and which fixture would make the most sense for the activity.

As you can see, lighting a room is not as easy as buying a lamp and plugging it in—especially if your space is dark. To lighten the room, you can start by picking well-illuminating paint and furniture, but it doesn’t stop there. You need to use different lighting for different activities. If paired together properly, you will have taken a dark space and will have made it a very functional, well-lit space instead.

Bellacor is a one-stop showroom that promises a new way to shop the entire lighting and home furnishings industry from the comfort of your home by providing superior personal service and access to the largest collection of lighting and home furnishings on the web. Bellacor offers access to over 500,000 products from 700 manufacturers. http://www.bellacor.com.

by Julia Ritzenthaler

When it comes to bathroom vanities, the days of a white box with a sink sitting on top of it are gone. Time has certainly changed the different types of styles, designs and colors that are available when it comes to bathroom vanities. Whether you prefer contemporary lines, vintage antique or sleek oak, there is something for everyone. From single sink vanities to double sink vanities, your styles and choices are endless, so there are a few key elements to keep in mind before you make your purchase decision.

The first thing to consider is the overall size of your bathroom and the space where you want to put the vanity. If your bathroom is small then you may be limited to a smaller size vanity, but if you have some room to work with you will have several more options, including double sink vanity styles. To make sure you will be getting a proper fit, measure the area where you’re going to be putting the vanity accurately.

Next, what is the intended function of your new vanity? Knowing the answer to this question will help you best determine what kind of vanity will best suit your needs. If you find you need a lot of storage space, then a cabinet style would be something to consider. This vanity works well for families with children because of storage potential and durability. How many people typically use the bathroom? If it’s intended for a guest room or a half-bath, then a single sink vanity will do just fine. If the bathroom is shared by 2 or more people then double sink vanities would be the way to go.

Once you have determined your space and function you can turn your attention to the style that will suit not only your needs but also your decor as well. Vanities are available in a variety of different materials including wood, glass, ceramic and stone. Unless you’re planning a major renovation, your new vanity should complement your current bathroom style. Finally, don’t forget about the price! Local home improvement stores will have double sink vanities at affordable prices whereas specialty stores will carry the more high-end vanities in creative styles. Knowing how much you are able to spend will help you narrow down your choices as well.

This article has been provided by Julia Ritzenthaler, owner and founder of several online boutique home furnishing stores including http://www.UniqueVanities.com/ visit or call 1-866-526-1843 for more information.

by Julia Ritzenthaler

Vessel sinks are quickly becoming one of the hottest bathroom trends on today’s market. In this style, the sink is slightly or dramatically raised from the surface of the countertop and they are available in just about every style, material, and finish imaginable. Small vessels are particularly nice for guest and powder rooms, and larger vessels are great for master and full bathrooms.

Once you have determined the style you are looking for—for instance a square vessel sink is great for a contemporary look—it’s time to decide on the type of vessel sink you want. The type you choose depends on if you plan to add just the sink and hardware to an existing vanity or if you are going to buy a complete piece. Some vanities are designed to accommodate partially raised vessel sinks, while others are more suited to completely raised sinks. You may also choose to purchase a vessel sink vanity which includes the sink, countertop, and cabinet. When planning the installation of your vessel sink, you need to decide where the bathroom the vanity is going to be placed. It’s just a good idea to determine the layout out of the room first. Be sure to closely read the manufacturer’s instruction included with the bathroom vanity or sink first; you are sure to find helpful point in there to make the vessel sink installation a bit easier.

Once the vanity is in place and you’ve read the instructions, give a good once-over to check for any pre-drilled holes for the faucet. If there are none, decide where you’d like the faucet to be in relation to the vessel sink. If you’re confident enough to start marking directly on the vanity, go ahead and indicate where you’d like to drill. If not, draw up a template and use it as a reference for the real thing. Remember the old saying, measure twice, cut once. You may also choose to mount your vessel faucet to the wall instead of the counter.

Use a jigsaw or a hole saw to make the cuts into the top of the vanity. A jigsaw is perfect for this kind of cutting because it gives you the range and flexibility to swivel as you cut. Pre-drilling the screw holes will make it easier to attach the faucet to the vanity. Once the cuts have are complete, carefully arrange the vessel sink and the faucet on the vanity surface to check that everything is lined up correctly. If it’s not exactly right, feel free to tweak and scrape until everything lines up just right.

If your vanity didn’t come with the mounting equipment and hardware for the vessel sink and faucet, you can find what you need at any hardware store. Your vanity might have specific instructions about how to fit a vessel sink and faucet. If so, be sure to stick to every word. Take the instructions to the hardware store with you so that you don’t forget anything. Simply put, attach the mounting ring; place the sink; and bolt the whole thing down. If your vessel sink is a particularly fragile material, such as glass, you might have to place some cushioning between the vanity surface and the sink. Silicone or rubber works well.

Now that it looks like a proper bathroom vanity, it’s time to get it working like one. Once the vessel sink and the faucet have been securely fixed onto the vanity, attach the water supply pipes to the vessel sink drain and the faucet or faucets. Check that all pipes and lines are firmly attached before testing it. Turn the water on and off. If it performs like it’s supposed to, then you are ready to enjoy your new vanity.

If you are unsure of any portion of the project, be sure to look into hiring a professional general contractor or a plumber.

This article has been provided by Julia Ritzenthaler, owner and founder of several online boutique home furnishing stores including http://www.UniqueVanities.com/ visit or call 1-866-526-1843 for more information.

image from www.BriarRenos.com

Dreaming of a large, luxurious spa bathroom? Or are you an avid DIYer that wants gorgeous results while sticking to a strict budget?

Here are some tips that can save you money if you decide to give the bathroom a makeover.

1. Go Green: Yes it’s the trendiest term this year, but it’s a frame of mind that if taken seriously and sensibly (instead of for militant show - you know who what type I’m talking about) it can also save you money. Try to keep your existing materials - that coat of no-VOC paint and finish may make the cheap but cheery difference you’re after. Visit your local Habitat for Humanity ReStore for materials, or donate any left over that you end up with. Water saving toilets and shower heads are the easiest ways to conserve; look for government incentives for when you install them.

2. Keep the layout: One of the biggest costs when it comes to renovations is new plumbing or re-wiring. If you don’t have to move the sink or toilet, you can use that extra money saved for replacing crumbling fixtures.

3. Think flair: You may be surprised by how simply switching hardware like faucets, etc., or installing more lighting can revamp the bathroom. Two sconces on either side of the mirror can brighten the whole room or a dimmer switch can create a calming ambiance. The right lighting can make your face lit up like a movie star.

4. Air quality: Insert joke here, but seriously, the bathroom is clearly the one place in the home that fears moisture the most (second only to the kitchen). Over time, the moisture can cause mold and mildew which will not only eat away at your shiny new fix-ups, but is also dangerous to your health. In order to prevent this, make sure your bathroom has appropriate ventilation and that the exhaust fan gets routinely cleaned.

Thinking more of a professional job? Here are two contests to enter to win an amazing dream makeover. In Canada, enter the Style at Home Dream of a Lifetime sweepstakes to win $25,000 to build a dream kitchen. In the US, the diy Ultimate kitchen and bath giveaway is offering a grand prize of $100,000.

If you’re ready to find a professional, get a free quote here. Or find your renovation inspiration in our article library.

by Pat Krushen

As the children of aging parents, we need to begin discussions with our parents regarding their future needs, long before those needs arise. We need to be knowledgeable about the products and solutions available so that when the time comes we can offer alternative solutions that will assist them to remain as independent as possible. Talking about these solutions without stating an immediate need for them gives the parent time to think and to asses the situation before the time comes.

Compared with the cost of hospital care once an accident happens or continuing care in a long term facility, the following items can be helpful in keeping a senior in their own home.

· Grab bars

· Medical alert devices and emergency response systems

· Entry ramps

· Railings for landings, staircases, beds

· Telephones with contact numbers programmed in and/or large numbers

· Easy wear clothing and incontinence products

· Raised toilets

· Self raising armchairs

· Walk in bathtubs, bath chairs

· Non-slip treatments for bathtubs, showers

· Reflective switch plates and stairway tapes

· Easy long-handled reachers

· Canes, walkers, scooters and even wheelchairs

· Meals on wheels

Do not hesitate to learn about other alternatives in your area that may become necessary, such as:

· Home Care

· Retirement Communities

· Assisted living facilities

· Long term care facilities

Just as new parents need to learn about appropriate items for new babies, toddles and children, those approaching parent caregiving need to educate themselves on options and solutions that will make life easier for everyone involved.

About the Author

Pat Krushen is a former teacher and sign language interpreter, hugely aware of lifestyle limitations due to physical abilities. She is currently a web designer and free lance writer, now involved in the walk in bathtub industry.

image from www.ceilume.com

Want to leave your old tiles in place, but have a whole new look?

There is no quicker, easier, DIY room makeover than replacing your old suspended ceiling tiles, and Ceilume’s 60 second videos show you exactly how.

Visit Ceilume’s Customer Photo Gallery to see these smart ceiling tiles in action and hear from the customers who installed them, and for the DIY nitty-gritty, be sure to visit the their blog.

picture provided by Binns

Most of use think of beautifying or increasing the resale value of a home when it comes to home renovations. However, an increasing number of homes are being modified for accessibility and “barrier free living”. This area of residential modification may be an investment worth investigating when considering the expected rise in our geriatric population.

In terms of accessibility, people with disabilities require modified homes to enable them to do tasks that most of us are lucky to take for granted such as taking a shower, or using the stove top. The use of some some types of wheel chairs can make standard levels and sizes for home components unreachable so that daily tasks become difficult or nearly impossible to do.

Last year, a local Toronto television news program reported on the increase of home elevators being installed and showcased some new Beaches condos being outfitted with them. Some were luxury symbols and others were for practical concerns; it brought great convenience and independence to the life of one paraplegic woman who was interviewed for the segment.

For the aging population, living more comfortably in one’s home and safeguarding against injury with such devices as safety tubs can mean prolonging the need for moving to an assisted living facility. And today’s modifications are just as beautifying as they are purposeful.

One such local company, which has been building and renovating gorgeous high-end homes for decades in Toronto, Barabco, has created a new division (Barabco AccessAbility) to specialize in creating barrier free homes.

Dr. Stuart Siegel, a certified Aging in Place Specialist, remarked, “Barabco AccessAbility homes are designed to create a magnificent custom home with ‘invisible accessibility t hat will allow aging or disabled individuals to live in their homes for as long as they desire.”

See how modifications of this nature can be suitable to everyone and be beautifying all at once.  For some ideas and more details on a bathroom project, visit HRG’s accessible bathroom renovation story (pictured above).

For information on walk-in bathtubs visit Safetybath.com.

Ever wonder what interior design work garners the laurels? Here’s a look at the fabulous winners of the Canadian Decorator’s Association (CDECA) awards. According to the judges, entrants for 2009 were of an impressively high caliber all around — as evidenced by the tie in one category, an unexpected occurrence for this event. Very contemporary styles with modern clean lines were dominant this year. If you happen to be a fan of home magazines, the overall themes may look familiar to you - updated, yet classic and enduring. However, the judges weren’t merely scoring on looks alone as eco-friendly and sustainability factors of the projects were equally important considerations.

A small warning before you proceed — these before and afters may inspire the urge to update your decor, or even more so, make one desirous of hiring professional talent. Much appreciation to Tobi Brockway, CDECA Director of Marketing, for providing the details and images.

Awards Ceremony (and winners) images by Dana St. Louis Photography.

Category: Renovation

1st Valerie Rowley Schomberg, Ontario (pictured with presenter Tim Craik)

Bedroom Before

Bedroom After

Bedroom Before

Bedroom After

Ensuite Bathroom Before

Ensuite Bathroom After

2nd (Tie) Sharyn Kastelic North York, Ontario

Kitchen Before

Kitchen After

2nd (Tie) Camille Savage Vancouver, BC

Dining Room Before

Dining Room after

Category: New Construction

1st Lisa Geisler North Bay, Ontario (with presenter Marianne Fenniger)

The Winning Loft

2nd Christina Mogk Etobicoke, Ontario

Studio Before

Studio After

Category: Interior Decoration < $25,000

1st Victoria McKenney Vancouver, BC (pictured with presenters Laila Radage at left, and Sara Nadeau)

bedroom before

Bedroom After

2nd Elizabeth Metcalfe Caledon, Ontario

Living Room Before

Living Room After

Category: Interior Decoration > $25,000

1st Lisa Geisler, North Bay

hobby room before                                                               hobby room after

2nd Christina Mogk Etobicoke, Ontario

bar before                                                                    bar after

About CDECA

The Canadian Decorators’ Association (CDECA) is a professional not-for-profit association representing both Student and Accredited decorators and designers, and Affiliate businesses across Canada. Its goal is to foster the growth of the decorating industry in Canada; provide advocacy respecting policy matters; promote a positive image of the industry through proactive activities and events; and offer its members continuous upgrading of skills and knowledge. Visit www.cdeca.com.

Most surveys show that renovating your bathroom is only 2nd to that of the kitchen in terms of return for your dollar and increasing the resale value of your home. I’d imagine that you’d only consider this if your bathroom is A. in need of serious repair or B. you don’t have one on the main floor yet. But what about renovating just for the luxury of it? Is that really necessary, or a good investment? Yes — if you believe that the key consideration for any renovation of one’s abode is personal enjoyment.

I was skeptical about how great a bathroom makeover can be and I’ve seen plenty of them. But I’d have to say that none have impressed me so far in terms of sheer atmosphere as this makeover. I’ve seen lots of pretty bathrooms, and even zen-like spas, but nothing that evokes a desire akin to that of spotting a beautiful dress in the window and not knowing how much you wanted it until the moment you lay eyes on it.

The Home in Question

Stats: Main floor: foyer, powder room, living and dining room, kitchen with dedicated eat-in and home-office areas. Second floor: Master Bedroom with new en suite bathroom, 2 other bedrooms and a newly renovated family bathroom. Attic: entertainment space with an adjacent outdoor patio. Basement: gym room, bathroom and laundry

Who: designed by: TO Design Co, contractor: Jason Burns

What: 82-yr-old Edwardian

When: Completed January to March 2009

Where: Toronto, Ontario

Why: Bathrooms did not provide enough comfort, functionality and or suit the style of the house’s original architecture.

The Master Bedroom is Transformed: Transitional Elegance with a Modern Touch

Before

Bu-bye builder’s standards — plain white walls and trims, and 12 X 12 standard marble tiled flooring, 2 piece standard toilet — insufficient lighting: incandescent bulbs in the ceiling only, obtrusive bulk head above the vanity must be addressed.

After

It took 3 months to finish the renovation — a complete gut and redo of the two main bathrooms in the house.

Before

After

Before

After

Main Bathroom becomes Contemporary Chic

Before

After

Before

After

Before

After

For more details see the full story Chic and Elegant: The Bathroom Santuary.

Photographer: Mark Bradshaw

I have to admit that since working for HIG and HRG, I do often get the urge to redecorate my home. However, it can be challenging when you are 1. working with a budget and 2. do not any decorating experience. So, of course I’m always looking for pretty ideas that are both affordable and beginner’s level type of DIY.

Here are a few such ideas I recently received from the Home Depot (all following content and images provided by):

Create your own vintage-inspired kitchen

What’s old is new again with the return of vintage flair. Incorporating this trend into your kitchen doesn’t have to include a complete overhaul. To infuse your kitchen with a vintage vibe, install easy to use peel and stick backsplashes like the Pewter Motif Smart Tiles.

Step 1: Measure your backsplash and determine how many tiles you will need.
Step 2: Wipe down the area, removing all dirt from the surface.
Step 3: Peel the backing from the tile exposing the sticky surface.
Step 4: Stick the tile in the appropriate position and rub down all corners of the tile to secure it.
Step 5: Repeat until the desired area is covered.

Cost of product: $11.99 for 10 In. by 10 In. tile (Pewter Motif Smart Tile)
Time: three to four hours
Tools required: a clean cloth and capable hands

The finishing touch

Painted finishes are back on trend and especially hot for kitchen cabinets - from antiqued and weathered to glossy and glazed! Frank Turco, Manager of Colour, Trend and Design, The Home Depot, suggests experimenting with yellow, cream, sage, green, red or black for spring ‘09. It’s easy to give your kitchen an instant facelift by painting those old cabinets!

Step 1: Remove the cabinet doors from the framework (to make them easier to work with) and smooth out your doors and cabinet framework by filling in any dents with filler and sanding away rough areas.
Step 2: Prepare any areas you don’t want painted with painters tape and lay a drop cloth on the floor.
Step 3: Paint the entire surface with primer.
Step 4: Tackle the edges and corners first by painting them with a paintbrush.
Step 5: Fill in the remaining area with a roller (once dry, repeat with an additional coat).

Cost of product: $32.97 for Premium Plus Interior Semi-Gloss Enamel Paint – Deep Base, 3.43L
Time: one weekend (may vary depending on the size and number of cabinets in your kitchen)
Tools required: sand paper, painters tape, drop cloth, primer, paint roller, paint, roller pan and 2 or 3 In. paint brush.

Redesign your closet

For those of us not so lucky to open the door to a new 10 x 10 Ft. closet; decorating, updating and organizing your closet will make it feel brand new, and perhaps even reveal some hidden treasures you had forgotten about!

Step 1: Remove everything from your closet and sort by things to give away, store and keep.
Step 2: Take the opportunity to clean your closet. Wipe down shelves, remove dust bunnies – make it sparkle!
Step 2: Freshen it up by painting the back wall in a colour you love or better yet, why not use a bold wallpaper to create some drama (closets need excitement too).
Step 4: Take advantage of unused space by setting up a set of drawers or easy-to-install closet organizer to provide even more storage.
Step 5: Maintain, maintain, maintain – it is up to you to keep it clean all year round!

Cost of product: $44.98/20.5 In. Black and White Large Scale Dramatic Floral Outline wallpaper; $89.99 Vaughan Woods Laminate Closet Organizer or $169.00 South Shore Furniture Five Drawer Chest (available only on homedepot.ca)
Time: one weekend
Tools required: damp cloth, eco friendly cleaner, hangers, shoe rack, sandpaper, primer, paint brush or roller, drill, hammer, screws, nails

Put it on display!

Don’t hide treasured pieces in a cupboard stuffed with endless items – put them on display. Here’s how to create your very own stylish hanging display piece using Rubbermaid’s Triple Cube Wood Shelf Kit. Each pre-assembled cube shelving unit is easy-to-install and can hold up to 11 Lbs. of weight. It’s as simple as these five steps:

Step 1: Before putting any screws in the wall, first determine how you want all three cubes to be displayed.
Step 2: Use a level to ensure the cube is straight on the wall. With a pencil, mark two points on the wall for the location of the anchors and screws.
Step 3: Hammer the anchors into the marked pencil spots, place the brackets over the anchors and secure the brackets to the wall with screws.
Step 4: Place the cube on top of the brackets so it is securely fastened to the wall.
Step 5: Repeat steps 1-4 for remaining two cubes.

Cost of product: $38.99 (kit includes three cubes, anchors, screws and brackets)
Time: one to two hours
Tools required: level, hammer, screwdriver and pencil

Conserve it

The desire to move to a more eco-friendly household has everyone working to “green” their home. An eco-friendly low-flow shower head is a great option to conserve water while still maintaining a powerful shower!

Step 1: Tighten an adjustable wrench to the flat spots on the base of the shower head, and turn it counter-clockwise to loosen and remove the old shower head.
Step 2: If there is a rubber washer, place it on the shower. Otherwise, don’t worry about it.
Step 3: Screw the shower head onto the exposed shower arm and tighten it with your hand.
Step 4: Turn the water back on at the faucet and check for leaks.
Step 5: If the shower head leaks at the connection to the shower arm, you need to tighten the connection more and may need to use a wrench to finish it off.

Cost of product: $44.99/WaterPik Aquascape shower head (Eco Options approved)
Time: one afternoon
Tools required: wrench, elbow grease

I for one am keen on the backsplash tile and perhaps repainting the kitchen cabinets –perhaps a fun indoors activity if it proves to be a rainy weekend.