Sunny weather is just around the corner and it’s about bringing your living space outdoors. With this economy, its all about home entertaining this summer, people are staying home and having friends over for bbq’s and parties instead.
Some great patio ideas are:
- lounge type of modular furniture creates a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere
- a heat lamp would allow you enjoy your deck even in the cooler evenings
- large planters with simple grasses, ferns, or flowering annuals give instant colour and can provide privacy screening from possible nosy neighbours
- An outdoor firepit is a great way to gather around with friends. The Solus Firebowl is available from Vancouver Gas
- A simple plug-in water fountain with a recirculating pump is easy to install and does not require plumbing. These can be found in many garden centers or online.
GREEN LIVING is very much ‘in’. Some great ideas and products are:
- use natural materials and earth tone colours for that timeless appeal
- using sustainable and unusual materials add interest, like mango wood or bamboo, or reclaimed wood
- Recycled wine cork flooring is a great idea for a Green and comfy flooring alternative.
- Verterra makes stylish dishware from recycled leaves
OLD IS NEW AGAIN, look for key pieces that will add interest to a room and show your personality, this could be a vintage or antique piece, or could just have that ‘weathered/lived-in’ look… stark minimal spaces are feeling too boring and static. Vancouver has many great antique shops just waiting for you to discover.
WHITE ON WHITE living areas create a modern and chic place that is enlightened with energy. The trick is to layer the space with textures and materials which will keep spaces looking inviting and warm. Ideas woud be richly textured area rugs full of colour, a beautiful oil painting displayed simply as a stretched canvas piece and simple plants always help to add interest to a space.
TURQUOISE is the must-have colour this year. Following on the heels of the most successful Olympic ever, this cool colour is great a hot summer. It looks even better layered on top of white palettes or powdery greys.
BOLD PATTERNS/ LARGE FLORALS are back in big time this year, especially florals. Great for the summer atmosphere.
WALLPAPER has always been hot with us but I think the masses are catching on now. They’re an inexpensive way to personalize your space, and is easily changeable without breaking any walls or breaking the bank. With a bit of patience and skill, you could even do it yourself. Most local paint shops will have sample catalogues for you to browse through.
