The other day, my colleague Sally Armstrong and I took a trip over to Designer Fabrics in Toronto's west end. I was immediately surprised by all the hides they have in stock right now. The different patterns and colours are amazing. If you're in the market for a fun element to add to your space, these could be just what you're looking for.
I couldn't resist, so as an early birthday present (today's my birthday!!!), I purchased one of the cream and gold hides (above). I know my husband will think I've totally lost it, but I think it will look great on a bench in either our living room or bedroom.
For tips on reupholstering furniture, leather or not, see Michael Penney's blog post.
Photo credits:
1-5. Sarah Hartill
We're about to embark on a decent sized reno on our home, so I've been spending every night pulling ideas. We flew down to Florida a few weeks back for March break — a much-needed break from the reno plans — and we had the luxury of a gorgeous pool on the grounds of our condo. We love the summer months, the kids love to swim and I know deep down they would love a pool in the backyard. Here are some "wishful thinking" ideas for a pool to call our own:
See our Perfect Pools gallery for more ideas.
Photo credits:
1. Elle Decor, photography by Roger Davies
2. Elle Decor, photography by William Waldron
3. Kris Allen Daily
4-5. Dornob
I always crave colour at this time of year — enough with the black and grey! My latest purchase is a pair of kelly green cords from Anthropologie — kind of a "I want spring now" moment. Two of my colleagues have also picked up similar pants. Not only am I seeing it fashion, but also for the home. Have you seen the latest issue of House Beautiful? They have dedicated their March issue to the colour green.
I Absolutely love this outfit from J.Crew — you could design a room around this outfit!
Love love love this kelly green tufted sofa. The sheep is a cheeky touch (Victoria Webster has the same one!).
Green subway tiles matched with black and white checkerboard tiles looks clean and classic.
Another room designed by Kelly Wearstler hits it home with this amazing headboard.
This Bobble water jug designed by Karim Rashid is a fun way to add colour to your kitchen. (I have one!)
For more green inspiration, see our Green Rooms photo gallery.
Photo credits:
1. No. 2 Pencil Skirt, J.Crew
2. Rue
3. Viceroy Santa Monica, Kelly Wearstler
4. Maison Marigold blog, designed by Kelly Wearstler
5. Bobble water jug
Last week, Kai Ethier and I attended the Atlanta Gift Show. It's different from other trade shows as the vendors are stacked high in three buildings and 20 floors. We walked and walked until we couldn't walk any more, and found some great new products that you'll see pop up on the pages of H&H over the next year.
Gorgeous items were everywhere, but one mini trend that stood out for me was the intensity of colour. Whether in a floral pattern or butterfly motif, it's definitely making a comeback.
This bedding from Pine Cone Hill are a perfect example of the colour schemes out there this year.
If you're colour shy, why not add a few simple throw pillows like these from Design Legacy?
Or go bold with this beautiful Blazing Poppies Wallpaper from Anthropologie.
For more bright inspiration, see our Colourful Spring Rooms photo gallery.
Photo credits:
1-2. Sarah Hartill
3. Blazing Poppies Wallpaper, Anthropologie
I know Christmas just wrapped up, but I'm so excited about the new spring collections from West Elm. Here are a few of my picks:
Beautiful ceramics by Stephen Antonson. I have the perfect spot for the wall mirror!
Also, the terrariums by Shane Powers have my green thumbs twitching!
View the entire 2012 spring collection here.
Photo credits:
1. Stephen Antonson Classic Vases, West Elm
2. Stephen Antonson Mirror, West Elm
3. Shane Powers Fish Bowls, West Elm
At the moment I'm obsessed with bifold doors for my new walkout. We are in the preliminary stages of possibly renovating our home. I know, I'm jumping the gun, but here are a few favourites:
I love how each panel accordion backs onto each other and tucks away at the side. Another great feature is the first panel works as a single door. So for those times you need the run out, there's no need to open all the panels.
For more great walkouts, see our Indoor-Outdoor Spaces photo gallery.
Photo credits:
1. Palo Alto Children's Library, NanaWall
2. Hollow Metal Bi-Fold, Bliss Noram
3. Marvin Windows & Doors