Creating Privacy in your backyard

Privacy in your backyard is very important when you live in close proximity to your neighbors. These easy ways to create a private entertaining space are
essential for every backyard.

Outdoor curtains

Hanging simple outdoor curtains not only make your space very private but they give a soft whimsy to your backyard. To save money on pre-made outdoor panels, simply buy painter's canvas drop clothes from your local hardware store and attach grommets to the top. They have a beautiful linen look for a fraction of the price.

Greenery Screens

A screen is one of the best ways in giving privacy to your backyard. A horizontal, linear screen adds a modern touch or build a classic lattice screen for a traditional entertaining space. A leafy vine growing up these screens not only adds more privacy but brings natural greenery.

 

 A Classic Pergola

A well built pergola adds definition to an outdoor space, privacy and shelter from the rays. There are many different styles of pergolas so make sure you have the perfect one built to suite your overall look for your backyard. I love placing a dining table underneath the structure and hanging some beautiful lanterns and twinkle lights to really set an intimate mood for your dinners with family and friends. Growing vines up the columns and top boards give even more privacy and shade to your backyard.

 

Cedar Trees

Having a fully landscaped backyard can be fairly expensive and may take a few years to really grow to the size. Adding a perimeter of cedar trees, to your backyard, instantly adds the privacy we all desire. They are fairly dense, grow to be tall and best of all maintenance free, which are some of the great features of this tree.






All of these options offer an abundance of privacy and will allow you to feel comfortable entertaining your guests for summers to come!

Adding pattern to your room...

Does your room lack personality and is dull and boring? Here are some easy ways to vamp up your space by just adding a little pattern. Painting all four walls is typically a go to for most homeowners but by using wallpaper or a pattern to break up your boring mundane walls it creates a unique look and a focal point to any space.

Wallpaper, as I have mentioned in previous blog posts, is a great way to add a pattern and personality to your room. Add a subtle tone on tone pattern that can add texture to your wall or select a large, bold pattern that is bound to catch some eyes and make a statement.


If you have a specific idea of the pattern you would like to create, then stenciling may be for you. It is a very cost effective way to add a bold pattern with just a little paint and cut out stencil.

Another way to add drama to your space is by painting a stripe or chevron pattern onto your walls. This is a very elegant overall look and by using soft, neutral colours, it will compliment most interior design styles.

Gone are the days of boring painted walls! Try a new great pattern that will add interest into your home.

DESIGN OF THE WEEK...

A masculine contemporary design, with warm neutral tones, is a soothing place to lay your head. This bedroom features an ikat/ chevron pattern with upholstered wall panels and a stunning chandelier to add sparkle.

Making the Old, New!

I love going to used consignment shops in hopes of finding some hidden gems. Used furniture pieces such as credenzas or tables are perfect treasures to refurbish for less. Most of these items are also built a lot better then furniture that you can purchase today.  

Not only can you refurbish tables and cabinets but chairs and sofas as well. Reupholstering a dated chair with a new, modern fabric will give it a new life. If you are looking for a unique piece, these places are always first on my list! I spent my Sunday at the Waterford Antique Market and found some really great & unique pieces!

Your Outdoor Oasis...

Outdoor living spaces are absolutely necessary for summer entertaining. Your outside really can look just as beautiful as your interior.

Create a contemporary outdoor oasis with these furniture pieces.

Kitchens...

Kitchens are one of the most loved places in our homes and therefore so much attention and detail go into their designs. Houzz recently surveyed people on everything kitchens and some very interested research came from this.

Cambria Quartz, Galloway

1. Most people absolutely hate laminate and tile countertops and 50 percent of people polled actually choose granite for their favorite tops. Quartz was a close second with 36 percent. My personal opinion is that although granite is beautiful it does have some maintenance and upkeep that comes along with having the natural stone, such as properly sealing your granite every five years and watch out for red wine spills because it will stain! Quartz is my go to top and there are so many stunning patterns and colors now to choose from.





2. 75 percent of pollers said they would like their kitchen to have soft neutral colors throughout. This is no surprise to me as a neutral color palette is a classic look that will stand the test of time. A kitchen renovation is one of the most expensive projects in your home and it is just not feasible to redesign it when a new trend appears!

3. Most people also like the idea of having an open concept kitchen with a large island for guest to congregate.

There are so many great design & storage ideas when you are starting your kitchen renovation. It is always a good idea to consult a designer to focus your design because it can be an overwhelming process and trying to incorporate too many ideas may create a chaotic end product.

Designing my home office...

I am currently redesigning my home office, as it is now my primary location of my business. I need a space that is not only functional and organized but inviting and of course beautiful. A place that I will want to sit in for long periods of time and also shows my work as a designer. This is one of my inspirations for my office as it is very minimal but has a striking pattern that screams contemporary design. I will post before/after pictures when I have completed it so STAY TUNED!

houzz.com

DESIGN OF THE WEEK...

Surrounded by a sea of crisp white is this natural, organic live edge bar top!