maryannschiralli

COLIN & JUSTIN: LET THE SUN SHINE IN!

2010-07-31T07:56:00.000-07:00

By Colin and Justin:

Conservatories. In Britain they’re everywhere, fastened to the sides of homes across our tiny island like limpets clinging to seashells. Their popularity as “buy now pay later” commodities has afforded them a huge sector of the home improvement market and they (in their various forms and price points) add to the domestic space of almost every U.K. demographic. From those in council properties and starter homes, right across the gamut to suburban residents and the wealthy elite, sunrooms are added, by the thousands, each and every week.

In Canada, conservatories are less frequently witnessed yet, properly conceived, they make wonderful additions to the North American real estate landscape. In a weird juxtaposition, you guys actually have better weather for these rooms than Brits (save for your wintry onslaught where many people worry that a conservatory wouldn’t make useful extra living space), yet they’re added in smaller numbers. Properly planned, however, and constructed by reputable installers, these bright airy rooms make great four season retreats that can augment lifestyle to the max.

The conservatory, in Britain certainly, came to prominence during Georgian and Victorian times when home owners built them, grand style, as “orangeries” at the side of large properties. As perceived statements of wealth and to keep up with the Joneses, they were expensive structures that enhanced Britain’s architectural landscape, providing as they did, somewhere to take the sun or rear fruit or horticultural specimen plants.

But one aspect that got the better of the great British conservatory was the weather. While these ostentatious structures were undoubtedly beautiful, our less than temperate climate battled relentlessly with fuel costs and upkeep on a day-to-day basis. In winter they were bitterly cold — and draughty — whereas in summer they were often uninhabitable owing to magnified heat levels and their traditional south-facing position, which only served to further increase the greenhouse effect. So, as light levels and cold factor increased, the popularity of the great British sunroom waned.

Historically, these glass houses were constructed on a concrete or stone bed and built from oak or similarly weather resistant lumber. As manufacturing processes became more reliable — and when double (and subsequently triple) glazing became the norm — a renaissance occurred and the glass house (albeit packaged more modestly) began to reappear. These days, if you scan British magazines, you’ll find room-sized conservatory prices slashed to as little as $6,000. Sunroom construction is once again a booming trade and renewed interest, since post-war 1950s Britain (and particularly since the mid-1980s), sees them, once again, embellishing British homes as useful extra space. Nowadays the conservatory isn’t simply somewhere to enjoy the sun, it’s, variously, a dining room, a utility room, a secondary living zone or a spillover games room for kids.

From what we see, the traditional Victorian sunroom isn’t as popular as it remains on the other side of the pond. More recently, however, this appears to be changing as competition makes them more affordable. As an alternative to regular extensions, they’re often easier to build and — potentially — offer less planning hurdles. As always, before taking the plunge, speak with your local planning department to ascertain which building, electrical or plumbing permits are required. Or do as we did, for this project, and bring in an expert supplier who’ll do all the work to ensure your new structure satisfies building code. Never tackle a conservatory DIY job unless you are suitably qualified and abreast of all municipality regulations.

Let’s get down to business. You’ll remember that last week we created a wonderful family zone for Bill and Hilary. And today? Well today we reveal the work we did to update their existing sunroom. Yes indeed, so weather and time battered was the existing structure that there existed only one solution to make better of it: to wield the demo ball.

Footprint

Using the existing “bed” allowed us to avoid extra costs and kept the overall size of the room identical. Bear in mind though, that the rules may be different for your structure if you’re building on top of an existing footprint. Again, speak to your planners to make sure you’re respecting all relevant rules. Our clients found their previous solarium to be of perfect size but its rickety construction meant it could only be used in summer. And even then, penetrating sunlight often made its temperature unbearable. With proper consents — and supports in place — we removed the door that lead from the house and inserted in its place an open aperture that provides beautiful flow from old to new. We’re sorry to keep banging on, but take the advice of experts. A quality installer such as DreamSpace (providers of our structure) will advise on all aspects of your new room from initial planning, code restrictions and, of course, construction itself.

Conservatory style

In the first instance we considered creating a cutting edge glass “cube.” However, as our client’s home is more traditional, we finally settled on a traditional aesthetic with more than a whisper of Victorian styling. A higher pitched ceiling provided added volume and gave our scheme commanding presence. Double glazing and rigid build mean the wind no longer whistles through and the conservatory’s open concept wafts heat from the connecting living room on colder days.

Decorative mood

Pre-painted timber diminished workload enormously and the only decor required was on the low wall areas, which we painted soft beige, and the area behind the sofa which we papered to match the living room. As far as we see it, in this case certainly, it’s the conservatory’s pared down simplicity that gives it its visual strength.

Blinds

Having a wonderful sunroom is one thing, but unless proper measures are taken to deflect sun penetration on excessively bright days, you could end up creating unusable space. We fell for the gentle raffia finish of our specification window treatments and they add welcome texture as well as useful heat baffling as and when required.

Flooring

Continuous solid oak flooring, sweeping elegantly from the living room beyond, seals the connective deal, and the avoidance of a threshold bar provides better visual results while also avoiding a potential trip hazard. Again, planning all these little details with your provider will tempt the very best from your project. To add further warmth, we sourced a lux deep pile brown and green striped rug and its provision provides a further link to the living room.

Sofa

Perfectly sized to fit across the largest wall, our comfy sofa is ideal for our newly constructed room. Some specifiers might have chosen traditional wicker furniture for their clients but ours needed extra useable living space more than they needed harder edged conservatory kit. And besides, our project also doubles as a kids play zone so keeping floor space flexible and unhindered by a three piece conservatory suite made better sense.

Tables

A chunky brown leather coffee table provides a little extra bang for our clients’ buck, serving as it does as perfect toy storage for Bill and Hillary’s wee boys. Double bubble (triple bubble in this case as the padded table also provides extra seating) is always our Holy Grail so search out items, like this, with extra function. If the doorbell rings and mom or pop need to quickly tidy, all they need do is lift the table top and stash Buzz Lightyear and his Toy Story pals deep inside!

Colin and Justin: Black and white and red all over

2010-07-24T04:00:00.000-07:00

By: Colin & Justin

Whoa! Check out that mountain of washing atop the drawer set in our chaotic before shot. Thank the Lord that there’s an accommodating sofa to collapse upon and a handily positioned plastic bucket for the vomitus flow that would surely occur as a consequence of the housekeeping headache lying ahead. Is it just us or does this room, pre-treatment, look like a laundry? Or, as there’s also a sofa in there, is it maybe a living room? Or is it, God forbid, a ramshackle sleep zone? Hmm. The double bed, secreted shyly towards the rear, certainly suggests sleeping was a possibility, but just imagine how distracted hibernation would be.

And it so needn’t have been like this. It’s interesting to note that today’s featured design crime sits within a large family house, a home with lashings of storage scattered generously around three commodious levels. With a surfeit of closets (and a finished basement that struck us as the perfect spot to tackle the aforementioned ironing) a spot of auspicious reorganization was clearly required. Our mission was simple: to reidentify the messy mélange and, in doing so, give our clients, a frustrated mom and pop with no idea where to start, a boudoir to be proud of. Fortunately, lying just off camera, there exists a walk-in closet which, properly rearranged, is the perfect storage for clothes and linen. We simply opened the doors and stacked everything neatly. We’re old-fashioned that way.

Wall colour

By now you’ve probably figured us out. We play acres of expansive white — in the majority of our designs anyway — against “popping” accent wallpaper, linens, soft furnishings and rugs. It’s not that we prefer avoiding explosions of colour (boy, we’ve ignited a few of those in our time), but more an inclination to safeguard expenditure further down the line. That which our peeps enjoy now — and that which they might prefer at a later stage — can be polar opposites. Therefore, the result of our rebrand, while imbued with lashings of personality and wheels of colour, is flexible. A brand new (and thoroughly adaptable) scheme which can be tailored, via new accessories, at the drop of a designer hat.

Flooring

Our clients wished for a luxurious wooden floor and we happily concurred. We would also, however, add a strident rug in our key note colour — red — but more of that shortly. We opted for solid timber, but if you’re keen to save a little money, there are great laminates available, many of which are perfect for bedrooms. Rona carries a great selection, so jump online and start searching.

Bed and nightstands

First things first: As a general rule, your bed should be positioned on the largest unbroken wall. Doing this allows for optimum “circulation” and ample space for symmetrical dressing with nightstands. At the moment, we simply can’t get enough painted timber furniture. A staple throughout many of our projects, its chunky appearance has lashings of style and fits perfectly into 101 schemes. Whether seaside or cottage inspired, or even slotted into a modern condo, painted timber is just so darned dreamy. In fact, we recently used precisely the same bed in a cavernous loft gig and dressed against exposed brick walls and post and beam architecture, it looks perfectly at home. We’ll show you that project in the coming weeks.

Bed dressing

Country style bed, funky bed linens: A match made in designer heaven. For a pared down look, opt for self-coloured linen with little or no decorative detailing but, if like us you fancy edgier results, try something like this gorgeous damask.

Tip: If you’re reluctant to invest in bedding for fear it might go off trend, do as we did and buy a printed fabric duvet rather than opting for appliqué, or a design boastings detailed stitchery. The former, owing to less expensive construction, will generally be better value than the latter. Or, if you’re feeling daring and want to juice up an existing plain duvet, use a large stencil and carefully apply fabric paint to create your own work of art.

Chair

As a further decorating detail, we found these lovely chairs and fell in love with their scrolled floral design. As recently as two or three years ago, a chair like this was far less generic and, consequently, might have set you back a small fortune. These days you’ll readily find this type of chair for as little as $100. It’s a statement piece and will punctuate even the simplest scheme.

Window dressing

As our wee Scottish grannies would say, “Never fuss, never worry.” Nevertheless, the traditional Scottish maxim still rings in our ears, long since our old girls slipped off this mortal, and we bear their counsel in mind throughout much of the work we do. With adequate pattern elsewhere (rug, bedding, chair, etc.) we pared window dressings back to their minimum and headed to Zellers for simple white drapery which we hung on unfussy cone-tipped black rods.

Rug

While positioned in an essentially monochromatic project, the circular rugs — and their swirling red and white composure — add an extra jolt of life. We actually found two similarly patterned rugs (the other was rectangular) but we chose the round fella as its shape provides visual relief when played against the room’s rectilinear nature and the square cut lines of the furniture. Reminiscent of the classic tree of life, it’s the perfect place to land each morning as a new day dawns.

Tip: Think about rug or carpet pile before investing. Stouter finishes like seagrass and jute are great (they look fab and stimulate nerve endings in your feet) but a soft 8-millimetre pile such as this is extra rewarding.

Chandelier

Feeling horny? Then what better way to enliven your crash pad than with a funky chandelier crafted from imitation stag antlers. This creation actually arrived boasting natural toffee tones but, to take it in an altogether different direction, we carefully masked off wiring and bulb areas and sprayed it crisp white using heat proof aerosol. The fact is we liked the results so much we bought three more: two for our Toronto condo and one, which we shipped to Scotland, for our guest bedroom.

AROMATHERAPY FOR YOUR HOME

2010-07-23T04:00:00.000-07:00

By: Jennifer O’Connor

Toronto Star

I can handle dusty shelves or an upswept floor, but I cannot stand it when my apartment smells stale, or worse, stinky.

That’s why I use lavender and tea tree oils in my kitchen. In my bathroom there’s a dish of dried rosebuds that I got at the health food store. I also get beeswax candles there or at the farmers’ market.

I consider the scent of my home to be as much a part of its decor as a rug on the floor or the knick-knacks on my shelf.

And I’ve learned there are a few simple and not-too-expensive ways to express your olfactory style.

First, says Danielle Sade, director and instructor at Healing Fragrances School of Aromatic Sciences, it’s “very important to understand that we have to eliminate the chemicals in the home, like cleaning detergents.” (The City of Toronto has some enviro-friendly recipes for cleaners on its website, www.toronto.ca/garbage/hhw.)

Also, throw open the windows every once in awhile. “Fresh air,” says Sade, “is one of the best things you can get for the scent of your home.”

Baking soda is also great because it gets rid of odours. Sade recommends adding a few drops of essential oil to it and putting it in the bottom of a garbage can. You can also sprinkle your carpet with some scented baking soda, let it sit for a few minutes and then vacuum.

A simple way to add scent to your home is to put some essential oil — Sade likes the combinations of a couple drops each of lavender and geranium or lemongrass and orange oil — on a cotton ball. Place the cotton ball on the floor or in a little bowl in areas that you want to be scented.

Floral scents such as geranium, lavender, clary sage, rose, jasmine and ylang ylang are good choices, Sade says, as are citrus scents such as orange, mandarin, lime and neroli.

You can also burn beeswax candles. “(They) are amazing,” she says. “They’re very good for the environment as well. It’s great to use them on their own because they’re actually giving off the scent of the beeswax, which is beautiful.”

Before you go diffusing fragrance everywhere, there are a couple of things to keep in mind.

“Even though it’s a natural product, you want to know what you’re doing,” she cautions. “There are some oils that can affect animals. There are some oils that you don’t want to put around people who are sensitive or have allergies.”

If you have any questions, talk to an aromatherapist or a knowledgeable staff member at a health food store. Also, although natural potpourris are fine, some people may have allergies to them, she adds.

It doesn’t have to cost a lot to scent your home. I have one 15ml bottle of essential oil that cost $13 (although I’ve bought other bottles that cost as little as $6), but remember you’ll only be using a couple of drops at a time, so it will last quite a while. The price of beeswax candles may also surprise you as they cost $15 to $20 for a pillar. But beeswax burns slowly and one candle can last for many hours. Of course, baking soda is cheap, especially if you can buy it in bulk, and opening a window is free.

The most important thing, says Sade, is to create an environment that smells clean. “Pure cleanliness is the most beautiful scent you can walk into.”

SOLD!!!! - 2321 RAVINE GATE - GLEN ABBEY!

2010-07-22T04:00:00.000-07:00

SOLD !!!!

Gorgeous Legend built executive 4 bedroom residence nestled in a very exclusive enclave of homes in prestigious Glen Abbey. Premium corner lot that faces the beauty of the lush stunning ravine - enjoy million dollar views! Feels like you are the only home on a private road. Over $160,000 in extra's. Over 2,650 sq. ft. of luxury living. Upgraded brick & stone exterior, cobble-stone style driveway, walkway & front steps, upgraded exterior lights & super private well landscaped front & rear gardens with mature trees & cedars. Fabulous floor plan - ideal for entertaining. Upgraded gleaming oak strip hardwood. Eat in kitchen is perfect for the serious chef's! Upgraded cabinets, over & under cabinet lighting, granite, backsplash & top of the line stainless steel appl's. Ravine views from the living room & dining room. Main floor master bedroom w/walk in closet & decadent 5pc spa like ensuite bath with Travertine marble counter tops. Main floor & 2nd floor linen closets. Surround sound, upgraded smooth ceilings, California shutters, crown mouldings, coffered ceilings & so much more. Better than new - mint condition - must be seen. Shows to perfection - like something out of a magazine.

CALL MARY ANN FOR YOUR HOME EVALUATION TODAY AT 905-338-9000!!

NEW LISTING AT 285 NAUTICAL - LAKESHORE WOODS - OAKVILLE HOMES!

2010-07-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

LISTED AT $839,900

Lakeshore Woods locale! Gorgeous executive home backing onto beautiful lush ravine. Total privacy - and a pool sized lot! National Homes "Bismark" model - 2,883 sq. ft. of luxurious living space. Smooth ceilings through out entire home. Superb floor plan, boasts a main floor study. Bright eat in kitchen offers granite, custom built cabinets, travertine marble tile back splash & stainless steel appliances - also under cabinet lighting. Kitchen i& eat in area s open concept to family room. Crown mouldings, gleaming hardwood floors on BOTH main & second floor & so much more. Wrought iron inserts in front doors. Upgraded lever style door handles through out in brushed nickel. Custom vanity cabinet with granite top in powder room. Custom stained handrail with clear finish spindles on staircase. Lovely master bedroom retreat with ensuite with upgraded porcelain tile. Laundry room with extensive cabinets & new stainless steel laundry tub. Fully finished basement with media room, recreation room with bar sink, home office & 3pc bath. Pick up the phone today! Contact Mary Ann Schiralli at 905-338-9000 to book your showing.

MIDNIGHT MADNESS - OAKVILLE HOMES

2010-07-13T04:00:00.000-07:00

Midnight Madness, one of the largest shopping and entertainment events of the year in Downtown Oakville, is celebrating is 33rd year in 2010.

Catch a performance on one of the stages, enjoy the shopping deals from many of the retailers, and sit and enjoy a great meal at many of the downtown restaurants.

There are plenty of family activities as well such as bouncy castles, face painting and crafts.

When: Friday, July 16, 2010 starting at 5:30 pm
Location: Lakeshore Rd., Downtown Oakville
There will be a FREE shuttle bus from the Trafalgar GO station every 15 minutes!

If you do take your car downtown, be sure to view the list of oakville parking lots with maps.

OAKVILLE CELEBRATES RECENT "HIGH FIVE" ACCREDITED STATUS - OAKVILLE HOMES

2010-07-12T04:00:00.000-07:00

Oakville celebrated its recent HIGH FIVE® Accredited Organization status at an appreciation event today where hundreds of recreation and culture employees were applauded for their efforts in helping the town achieve this significant goal.

“Oakville is a town full of energetic, active people who enjoy recreation. Our Accredited Organization status shows how dedicated our staff is to providing the best recreational programming possible, at the highest of standards,” Oakville Mayor Rob Burton said. “By achieving this goal, we have moved one step closer to becoming the most livable town in Canada. You should all be proud of your success.”

Oakville is the first municipality in Halton, and the largest in Ontario to receive the provincially-recognized HIGH FIVE® accreditation for providing quality recreation and sport programs to children aged six to twelve. HIGH FIVE® accreditation is the highest recognized level of quality and safety in children’s sport and recreation and Canada’s only quality assurance standard for organizations that provide sport and recreation programs to children.

“The Town of Oakville has exemplified true dedication to enhance and improve their delivery of services to the community,” Brian Connors, Parks and Recreation Ontario (PRO) board member said. “Research indicates that organizations registered with HIGH FIVE® are improving the experiences of children participating in recreation and sports programs and enhancing the long term success of their staff and organization.”

Organizations that have achieved accreditation are distinguished by their focus on healthy child development in all aspects of their operation, from programming to policies and procedures. An organization must work through five levels of achievement to reach accreditation.

For additional information on the HIGH FIVE® accreditation process visit www.highfive.org

CURLEY OR FLAT: PARSLEY IS ALL GOOD TO ME - OAKVILLE HOMES

2010-07-11T04:00:00.000-07:00

This is a tale of two parsleys.

Parsley No. 1 was the prettier of the pair — bright green, with curly, crinkly leaves. However, as any teenage girl knows, looking too cute can get you dismissed as a lightweight. That was, alas, the fate of parsley No 1. She got relegated to a supporting role in the kitchen, fit only for garnishing plates.

And parsley No. 2? People took her far more seriously, because of her plain, flat, businesslike leaves. She also possessed one huge trump card: the magic word “Italian” attached to her name. So parsley No. 2 earned the accolades of gourmets everywhere as “the best kind of parsley to cook with.”

Poor parsley No. 1. She could whimper all she liked that she tasted just as good as her Plain Jane cousin. No one took any notice.

At least that’s my take on this much-used herb, folks. Everywhere I go, people keep trotting out the myth that Italian parsley tastes better than the curly kind. But it’s bollocks. And — hallelujah — the tide does seem to be turning. Canadian House & Home recently identified curly parsley as the new “star of high-end cuisine,” with chefs suddenly favouring “its intense flavour over flat-leaf.”

Be that as it may, all parsley tastes better when you grow it yourself. And it’s pretty easy. Just give the plant nutrient-rich soil and lots of water. If it dries out (the bottom leaves will start turning yellow) whack the whole thing back, water and it’ll soon bush out again. Too-dry parsley tastes bitter and has a tough texture. I find the curly kind harder to clean than Italian, because gritty bits of soil tend to get splashed up and trapped between the “crinkles” during rain. (Perhaps that’s where the belief that Italian parsley is better to cook with comes from.)

And don’t bother to grow any kind of parsley — pretty or plain — from seed. Germination takes longer than the streetcar out to the Beach. Just pick up pots of both types in spring from the garden centre. Then, do a taste test yourself. Chew on a raw sprig of each. See what I mean?

Grow your own

Mesclun mix

Unlike parsley, supermarket salad greens lose their flavour fast. So grow your own. Mesclun mix is hip, incredibly easy and fun. (And by the way, it’s MEZ-clun, not mescaline, which delivers an altogether different high.) Just sprinkle seeds on top of a shallow container of damp growing mix. Keep in a spot which gets sun part of the day, but doesn’t fry the leaves. Start snipping within three weeks. The freshness is delish. Three Canadian sources: Stokes Seeds, St. Catharines: 1-800-396-9238. www.stokesseeds.com Manitoba’s McFayden Seeds: 1-800-205-7111. www.mcfayden.com Veseys in PEI: 1-800-363-7333. www.veseys.com

Plant pick

Flowering raspberry Rubus odorata

A remarkably pretty native shrub that has started popping up in Toronto’s parks. (Kudos to the city’s plant pooh-bahs.) I spotted it in High Park recently and also a lovely long row at Kew Gardens in the Beach. This produces the oh-so-Canadian fruit called thimbleberry. But even if you don’t bother with the berries, the purplish-pink flowers look lovely in spring: big, rather like rugosa roses. And for city gardeners, it’s fine in part shade. Source: Grand Moraine Growers in Alma, north of Guelph. 519-638-1101. www.grandmorainegrowers.ca

TRAVIS: SIMPLE DECORATING MAKES FOR HASSLE-FREE SUMMER - OAKVILLE HOMES

2010-07-10T04:00:00.000-07:00

Oh, these lazy hazy days of summer! It’s time to kick back and let the great outdoors perform its magic.

I have a mental alarm that goes off at the beginning of July to remind me to simplify all things home related, to turn a blind eye to all but the most basic housework and take the time to savour the summer. Here’s a check list that will point you in the right direction for a beautiful, hassle-free few months.

• Simplicity in decorating leads the way. Pack up all the heavy blankets and carpets, clear table surfaces, declutter as much as possible. Your rooms need to breathe and so do you. By editing down the cool weather furnishings and accessories, the overflowing book shelves and stuffed closets, you will notice that your home has a weightless air about it that is very freeing.

• Window treatments are an integral part of your summer decor. White and lightweight fabrics float at the window. Check out the new looks in sheers and blinds, such as the Hunter Douglas Silhouette Shades or their Duette Doulite series. They offer UV protection, block heat transfer, and have a modern design that suits any style.

• White is a summer staple inside and out, always fresh and cool. Introduce as much white as you can — it’s bright and lightweight at the windows, as slipcover for a couch or chairs, and layered on the bed.

• Add a few shots of hot climate bold pastels — turquoise, orange, lime green and lemon yellow are fun and youthful. Some throw pillows, an area rug or some vases for your summer bouquets in these shades will lift your rooms and contribute a zesty holiday feeling.

• No-fuss melamine dishes are back in favour. Invest in some of this colourful picnic ware, not only practical for outdoor dining, but fun for a rainy day inside too.

• There is no surface or room that flowers won’t improve. Cut a bouquet of fat blossoms for the living and dining rooms, a solitary stem beside the bed, a jar of fresh herbs on the kitchen counter. Their colours, shapes and scents infuse your days with seasonal style.

ARTFUL RUGS PUT TO STYLE UNDERFOOT - OAKVILLE HOMES

2010-07-09T04:00:00.000-07:00

An interior design riddle: For every four-sided room, how many walls are there to consider?

Six, asserts Dallas-based Elaine Williamson. And for many clients, the floor has become the most important one to get right.

Allergies, animals and eco-consciousness continue to roll back the wall-to-wall carpet in favour of a hard surface. So the key mood-setter/personality-indicator/style dictator becomes ... The rug.

It might be anything from an unobtrusive sisal (everywhere) to a penetrating Fornasetti gaze. What it’s less likely to be these days, in a new space anyway, is a classic Oriental.

“For the most part clients aren’t even asking about them anymore,” says Williamson. “There’s a new breed of rugs out there, and it’s very design-oriented, sophisticated and artful.”

In the Sex and the City 2 movie, the most eye-catching, enviable styles have moved from the stars to the sets. Red and pink blooms on the “Candy Flower” rug steal the spotlight in the otherwise mostly neutral living room of Carrie (Sarah Jessica Parker) and John (Chris Noth). The rug even has fashion credibility, created by designer brand Marni for the Rug Co., one of a handful that specialize in statement-making rugs, often in collaboration with fashion designers, artists and architects.

Still, it’s an overstatement to say a rug should always be the masterpiece, or even square one, for a room, says Margaret Russell, editor-in-chief of Elle Decor.

“The starting point should be something you love,” she says. “If that’s a rug, that’s great, because it is the foundation, the base, of what everything goes on. A lot of people look at a rug as a focal point. Others look at it as the equivalent of a good paint job.”

Few in either camp would argue this point: “There are some beautiful rugs out there now,” Russell says.

Rug layering has added another dimension. Sisal in summer can be topped with a heavier rug in winter. Or sisal can be embellished—famously, in a rug belonging to George Stephanopoulos and his wife, Ali Wentworth.

“They have an aging family dog and the dog had had a few accidents on it,” Russell recounts from a story that made the cover of Elle Decor as well as the “Oprah” show.

Wentworth wanted a new rug; Stephanopoulos didn’t. So Wentworth bought fabric dye in lavender.

“She did this almost starburst pattern all over this creamy rug,” to disguise the dog’s crime scenes, Russell says. “George came home and said, ‘I told you I didn’t want to get a rug yet!’

“Sisal doesn’t need to be boring,” Russell says.

Still, says interior designer William Diamond, half of New York-based Diamond Baratta Design whose interiors are often centred on bold custom rugs, “I’m not a big believer in doing sisal unless you’re doing a house at the beach and are worried about sand. I think it’s sort of a cop-out.”

Nor is he a fan of solid colour rugs in general.

“We think that a rug is a great place to put your style because it sits on the floor,” Diamond says. “Even if it does have a lot of style, it doesn’t smack you in the face. When you bring design up higher, in sofas, chairs, walls, it’s hitting you in the face more.”

That’s why he also believes in keeping the furniture simpler, and having some coordination between it and the rug colours.

Just as at a dinner party, he says, “you can’t have everything be the centre of attention.”

THE CASE FOR—AND AGAINST—CLASSIC ORIENTALS

For:
Today’s most sought-after interiors look is a wide-ranging mix of styles and time periods. So even the most tradition-bound Oriental needn’t look out of place in a more modern setting. Imagine one set against a polished concrete floor, or paired with a modern chrome-and-leather chair, creating a just-right juxtaposition.

In addition, in a time when people prize value, Oriental rugs boast impressive longevity. “Depending on the rug type and usage (hallway or bedroom),” says Peter F. Stone, author of the new Oriental Rug Repair (Thames & Hudson, $29.95), “an Oriental rug will last from 10 to a hundred years. Some rugs, such as the Bijar, are very hard wearing. Baluchis are much more fragile.”

Against:
The expense of top-quality Oriental rugs has become a taste-changer for many clients, says Williamson.

“There are baby boomers who have lost a lot in this economy, and they’re not putting down $25,000, $40,000 for a rug,” she said. “I appreciate the value and esthetic, but (that kind of investment) limits my client for a long time.”

Modern rugs, she says, might be handmade of high-quality wool, but not be as expensive as a top-notch Oriental, and, therefore, are less of a commitment and, possibly, more of a personal statement.

RUGS: STYLE POINTERS

—No-fail recipe: Pair a statement rug with quieter furniture. Or reverse the equation: Opt for a neutral base and choose bolder furnishings.

—Let love lead: Despite conventional wisdom, a rug doesn’t have to be the starting point for a room. A favourite object, painting or piece of furniture can supply colours and style cues.

—Mix it up: Pattern on a rug is less intense than the same pattern at eye level, which is one reason a geometric or Oriental rug can coexist peacefully with prints on furniture.

DECORATING DO'S & DONT'S - OAKVILLE HOMES

2010-07-08T04:00:00.000-07:00

What size area rug do I need?

An area rug used in any room should be at least 15 centimetres (6 inches) under the furniture and all pieces of furniture should be on the rug. A rug in the dining room should extend 60 centimetres (2 feet) from the edge of the dining table to allow the chair to be on the rug when pulled out for dining.

How do I decide on a colour scheme?

Start looking for colour cues by reviewing decor items you love, rooms that catch your eye in magazines or even your closet. To build a colour scheme around a room use an area rug, piece of artwork or a fabric you love as inspiration and note the three main colours featured in each piece. Use these colours in various tones and shades. Think of each room in terms of the mood you want to create, be it soft and subtle, warm and inviting or bright and bold.

How high should I hang my artwork and what size of artwork?

Hang artwork about 1.5 metres (between 60 to 65 inches) from the floor to the centre of the art. For hallways and stairs, try a few centimetres higher. In a living room or dining room, opt for a few centimetres lower for optimal viewing while seated. Keep your artwork in proportion to the furnishings in the room. Artwork over a sofa should be two-thirds the full width of the sofa and no higher than 25 centimetres from the back of the sofa.

How many light sources do I need in a room?

Ideally there should be three lights in a room. This can include different forms and types such as overhead main lighting, functional task lighting for a specific purpose and mood lighting including candles, sconces or table lamps. In a dining room with an eight-foot ceiling, the chandelier should hang 75 centimetres above the dining table. For each additional foot of ceiling height, add about seven centimetres.

How do I choose and display accessories?

When choosing accessories for a room, pick pieces that will match the style and colour of the room but if you don’t love it, live without it. Accessories should be a reflection of your personality or style. It is best to group accessories in odd numbers, preferably threes, while also having a variation in the height of objects. Using an element of nature such as a plant or fresh flowers can add visual interest, texture and a green living element. Accessories add a finishing touch to any room, which makes it feel like home. Cushions, candles, family photos and treasured pieces help create a unique style for each person. They are also inexpensive and easier to change over time.

How do I coordinate fabrics?

Fabrics need to complement each other and not compete in terms of colour, pattern and size. For example, I’ve used a medium stripe is used for the accent chair, a large pattern /floral in the area rug, a small geometric pattern on an accent pillow and a solid for the drapery. The blend of colour, patterns and scale are important when choosing fabric in relation the balance of the room, furnishings and style of the homeowner.

Where do I put the TV?

To find the recommended viewing distance for your television, multiply the diagonal width of your TV screen by three. The bottom of the screen should be at chest level, no higher than your chin. Think about function and look when choosing where to place the TV, as in most rooms it is a focal point.

Where do I hang drapery hardware?

A drapery rod, or track, should be mounted at least 5 centimetres above the window frame. Drapery panels should extend 15 to 45 centimetres on either side to maximize the light and viewing area of the window.

How do I start a renovation or decor project?

When renovating, focus on one room or area at a time and start with the areas that will be around for a while like the floor, cabinets in a kitchen, etc. Get contractors and various suppliers to confirm in writing specific time lines and costs by project, so there are no surprises. It is also best to get three quotes for every main project. Even though this may take time and effort to coordinate, you will learn a lot in the process about your options, get different ideas and suggestions and understand the pricing ranges of various products and services.

How do I decide on what to keep or buy or to use as inspiration?

Less is more and if you don’t love it, live without it. De-clutter each area of your home to make rooms look more spacious and balanced. Clear spaces will provide a sense of order and calmness.

Keep and buy items that you love that also serve the needed function and work for your space. Doing so will evoke positive emotions and make the space feel more like a reflection of your unique style and lifestyle.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM LOCAL AIR POLLUTION - OAKVILLE HOMES

2010-07-07T04:00:00.000-07:00

Halton Region is committed to safeguarding residents’ health. The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) will help us achieve this goal together.

The AQHI is a national tool that helps individuals protect themselves and the people they care for. The Index reports air quality in relation to health on a scale from 1 to 10. The higher the reading, the greater the health risk and need to take precaution. Air pollution worsens heart problems and aggravates lung conditions, such as asthma and bronchitis. In healthy people, air pollution reduces lung function and irritates the eyes nose and throat. Poor air quality is associated with thousands of hospitalizations and premature deaths in Canada each year.

The AQHI can help people plan ahead by telling them the best time of the day to be physically active and when to reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activity. The AQHI provides health messages for both the at-risk and the general population. The at-risk group includes children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing heart and breathing problems. When the Air Quality Health Index reaches seven or above, children, people with heart or breathing problems, and the elderly should reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities. AQHI forecasts are posted at www.airhealth.ca and www.halton.ca/aqhi with readings updated hourly.

Halton’s AQHI is based on two Ministry of the Environment air monitoring stations in Oakville and Burlington. The Region has installed its own air monitoring station in Milton to add another air monitor to the network.

Halton Region in partnership with the City of Toronto, and Durham, Peel, and York Regions, have introduced an electronic toolkit to assist organizations in promoting the Air Quality Health Index. The toolkit contains radio and web advertisements, newsletter articles, a presentation, print resources and a short educational film. The film walks viewers through what the index means, how air quality can affect our activities and why we should check in if we’re planning on spending time outdoors.

The AQHI helps to protect our health, and also serves as a reminder of the need to protect our environment. As cars, trucks and coal-fired power plants are major sources of air pollution, reducing energy use at home and on the road will impact the number of high AQHI days.

To help you reduce both home energy use and vehicle use, download or order a free copy of the 20/20 Planner which has a step-by-step action plan to energy reduction.

Halton Region’s air quality program aims to protect and enhance Halton’s air quality and protect Halton residents’ health. The AQHI is part of a broader air quality education and awareness-raising program. Learn more by visiting www.halton.ca/airquality.

Gary Carr is the Regional Chair of Halton – which consists of Oakville, Burlington, Milton and Halton Hills. Contact Chair Carr by telephone at 905-825-6115 and by email at gary.carr@halton.ca

NEW LISTING AT 3319 WHILABOUT TERRACE - OAKVILLE HOMES

2010-07-06T04:00:00.000-07:00

LISTED AT $564,900

Stunning Rosehaven - King model! All the bells & whistles. 2106 sq. ft. of luxurious living space. Gorgeous eat in kitchen with granite, upgraded cabinets, under cabinet lighting, classic backsplash, extra pantry & in floor "sweeper". California shutters, gleaming hardwood & more! This residence is nestled on a premium pie lot. Great floor plan for entertaining. 2nd floor master boasts a "spa like" 5pc ensuite with frameless glass shower & double sinks! Super 2nd floor study/den is perfect for the work at home executive. Central vacuum & attachments & pre-wired for surround sound inside & exterior. Alarm system in home. Shows to perfection - neutral decor. Under 3 years old. A must see. Pick up the phone today. Will not last. Contact Mary Ann Schiralli at 905-338-9000 to book your showing!

maryannschiralli

COLIN & JUSTIN: LET THE SUN SHINE IN!

Colin and Justin: Black and white and red all over

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NEW LISTING AT 3319 WHILABOUT TERRACE - OAKVILLE HOMES

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VISIT THE HARBOURSIDE ORGANIC FARMER'S MARKET THIS WEEKEND!

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428 SHEDDON SOLD - OAKVILLE HOMES FOR SALE

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472 DAVID SOLD - IN JUST 2 DAYS - OAKVILLE HOMES FOR SALE

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NEW LISTING AT 472 DAVID ROAD - OAKVILLE HOMES FOR SALE!

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8 SUMMER SAFETY MYTHS THAT PUT KIDS AT RISK - OAKVILLE HOMES

TREAT YOUR GARDENS LIKE AN EXTENSION OF YOUR HOME - OAKVILLE HOMES

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A TESTIMONIAL FROM ANOTHER SATISFIED CLIENT - OAKVILLE HOMES

TACKLE THE "CLUTTER" ZONE - OAKVILLE HOMES

A TESTIMONIAL FROM ANOTHER SATISFIED CLIENT - OAKVILLE HOMES

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335 GLOUCESTER SOLD!! - OAKVILLE HOMES

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HAPPY VICTORIA DAY! - OAKVILLE HOMES

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NEW LISTING AT 82 ARKENDO DRIVE - OAKVILLE HOMES

NEW LISTING AT 196 WILDER DRIVE - OAKVILLE HOMES

108 WILSON STREET SOLD IN JUST 1 DAY! - OAKVILLE HOMES

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VISIT THE NEW LCBO IN OAKVILLE! - OAKVILLE HOMES

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CHECK OUT MY WEBSITE! - OAKVILLE HOMES FOR SALE

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PROJECT: WALLPAPERED STAIRCASE - OAKVILLE HOMES