hodge:podge

Monday, Monday and a Great Read

2012-01-30T07:00:00.000-08:00

How was your weekend?

As usual we experienced liquid sunshine here on the "wet" coast, when not at the soccer field or hockey rink I stayed snuggled up by the fire.

What I enjoyed the most was catching up reading the amazing collection of online ezines that are published, my favourite House of Fifty didn't fail to disappoint.

Janell has really created a niche in the ezine world and I look forward to when the magazine arrives in my inbox.

My favourite article was Home Sweet Rental -

As a renter I have embraced the home I live in and the limitaions of renting. The article shares invaluable design tips: add colour, add storage, mix high with low

Love, love, love this article and all the inspirational images!

Thanks for the inspiration Janell and team!!

XO Barbara

So Canadian eh? : Angie from Echoes of Laughter

2012-01-29T01:00:00.000-08:00

Feeling disorganized? Stumped for party ideas? Not sure what to feed your ravenous children? Well look no further, my latest guest's blog is full of ideas that can help you with just that.

Please welcome.....

Angie Pitre from Echoes of Laughter

She is...

You know how when you read through the hundreds of blogs that are found swirling around on the internet but only a few catch your eye? Angie's blog Echoes of Laughter is one of them. The funny thing is, the first thing that caught my eye on her blog, was not the content but a photo she has of her bike on the sidebar! Being married to a bike fanatic, I appreciate a great bike when I see one. Angie's bike is one I would love to have to just leisurely bike around the neighbourhood! Silly, I know...

I heart this bike.

Reading Angie's blog is so inspiring, her zest for decor and organization makes you want to create order in your own home. Martha, better watch out, Angie is hot on her tail! Not only can she organize the chaos out of your home, she can make the simple things in life extraordinary! For instance, Angie can made ordinary hot chocolate into a party at her home...her hot chocolate bar she had set up during the holidays made me crave some!

Her blog was named in the Top 25 Home Management Blogs by Circle of Moms. I can understand why, her blog is full of amazing articles like this one: 5 Easy Steps to Packing School Lunch!

Want to stream line your household? Well hop over there quick! You won't be disappointed.

Angie also always manages to be on top of decorating her home for the seasons...

The gallery wall composed of her children's art create a cheerful and colourful vignette.

A great way to organize and display jewelry.

An organized mudroom shelf.

Angie always has the most amazing party, holiday theme decorating ideas or yummy recipes!

Tell us a bit about yourself? Your background? Your education? What makes you tick!

I was born and grew up in Nova Scotia. I lived there with my family until my husband’s job required a move across the country 7 years ago. It was a big move for us…we stepped off a plane in a new city and knew no one. I actually have a background in business….I have a bachelor`s degree in business and worked in small business for 12 years before moving to Alberta in 2005 and becoming a stay-at-home mom to my children, who were 4 yrs. old and 8 yrs. old at the time. I have relished my life and role at home these last 7 years. What makes me tick is that I am very project oriented! I love seeing projects thru from beginning to end. And I love pretty!

What made you decide to start a blog?

I started blogging in the fall of 2005 as a form of therapy for starting a life in a new city and being a little lonely, as I had not met a lot of people yet. Later, it became a way of keeping in touch with all of my family back home in Nova Scotia. I think my Mom & Dad were my only readers for about 2 to 3 years!

What have you enjoyed about blogging? Any surprises along the way? Any dislikes?

The thing that I have enjoyed most about blogging is the connections I have made with people from all over the world. For instance, I have readers in Israel and Australia, and they leave wonderfully kind comments on my blog. To me, that is astounding and wonderful! The biggest surprise in blogging has been the impact of Pinterest…the biggest source of traffic for my blog now is Pinterest. People are finding me because others have pinned my projects there. My only dislike is that there are just not enough hours in a day to keep up with all of the fantastic blogging talent out there!

Your blog is such a resource for fabulous organizational, meal, party and just plain pretty ideas. Where do you find the time to come up with such inspirational ideas? Where do you find your inspiration?

{Aww! Thanks Barb!} I am not really sure if I “find the time” as it is more of a natural part of me. My mother kept a wonderful home when I was growing up. She was always making things look pretty, or sewing something, or whipping up something wonderful in the kitchen. My mother also has amazing presentation skills, and I think I just kind of learned through osmosis from her. I also have a long-time love of pretty dishes and flowers. And I was a huge magazine junkie for many years. I would say most of my inspiration now comes from other blogs where amazing women are showcasing so many wonderful skills….be it sewing, baking, photography or design.

I noticed you author another blog called “Beautifully Organizational Living”, where you not only offer organizational tips on your blog, but organizational services. What are some easy ways we can find order in our homes?

Some easy ways to find order is: 1~ Start with small projects that take only 15-20 minutes. Instead of starting with big projects, which can be overwhelming, start with small, more manageable goals that fit into a busy schedule For instance, instead of organizing the whole kitchen at once, start with a drawer or cupboard a day if that is all you have time for. Set the timer for 15 or 20 minutes, work for that time and then stop. Soon the kitchen will be done and you can move on to another project. I used to work full-time when my kids were small and that is how I took care of my home….in small bits at a time. 2~De-clutter often! I usually take a bag or box to Goodwill every week. I regularly weed out things we don’t use and try not let them turn into messy piles! Again, 15 minutes a week is all it takes. 3~Manage those paper piles! Buy blue bags for recycling and toss junk mail and papers you don’t need right away!

As a mother, how to you find balance in your everyday?

I don’t know if we ever find the perfect balance…but a happy medium! I try to loosely schedule my day so that it includes a bit of everything. I have little habits that help me. For instance, after the kids leave for school, I always put in a load of laundry. I plan meals for the week on Sundays. On Mondays, I change bed sheets. On Wednesdays, I clean bathrooms. {It’s old-fashioned, but it works!} Tuesdays always seem to be the day for creative projects. I try to schedule a ‘fun day’ during the week where I meet a girlfriend for lunch, shopping, a movie or a walk. I hug my kids and husband a lot! And I practice being grateful every day…for things like good health, my family, a yummy meal, skyping with my parents, etc. I consider myself so privileged to be able to stay home and take care of my family in the way that I do.

Tell us one thing that might surprise us!

My smoke alarm goes off more than it should {when I am in the kitchen}!

You have created an amazing home for your family, what tips and suggestions do you have for creating a home on a dime?

A~I think the best tip is to get on the computer and spend some time in blog land. The ideas and inspiration are abundant. Bloggers make incredible projects out of stuff found on the side of the road or Goodwill or with their own hands and the local hardware store. It just takes some imagination and elbow grease.

B~Always try to think outside the box. If something doesn’t work in one room, can it work in another? Can it be re-painted? Can it be re-covered? I have spray painted picture frames, lamps, shelves, and candlesticks. I have re-covered chairs. I visit the dollar store for seasonal décor and I am never disappointed.

C~Paint is truly the best decorating tool. It can transform anything! I painted for the first time when I got married. I have painted in every house we have lived in since. It’s a life skill! My 13 yr. old daughter and I painted her room together and then she did her closet on her own. Don’t be scared and get out that paintbrush or spray can!

You are an east coast gal living on the Prairies now. Have you noticed any differences in the way people decorate their homes between the East and West? What do you miss the most about Atlantic Canada? What have you grown to love about living in the West?

Hmm. That’s a bit of a hard comparison to make because I am not sure if the differences come from where I live or not: big city {Alberta} vs. small town {Nova Scotia} but I have seen a lot more ‘modern’ décor in the West. I notice there is less antique furniture in family homes here. Of course, the biggest difference is the residential landscape itself. In the Maritimes, you will find almost every river, dale and town dotted with cape cods, colonials and Victorian style homes. The West was settled later and has more recent residential styles. What I miss that about Atlantic Canada….doors or homes painted pink or purple with gingerbread trim and ‘widow’s walk’ rooflines. So pretty! And I painfully miss the ocean at times! The West has beautiful mountains and prairies and I find the people so friendly!

If you were given the opportunity to meet anyone or do anything, what would it be and why?

Well, over the Christmas holiday, I saw the new George Clooney movie, `The Descendants` and that made me desperate to take my family to Hawaii, as we have never been. The cinematography captured in the movie was so beautiful and I am an ocean-loving girl…so a quiet spot in Hawaii on the beach for 2 weeks when we have recently experienced temps in the -40`s here in Alberta sounds perfect to me right now!

What are your views on the role Canadian design plays in the world design scene? Do you feel that Canadians have a unique sense of style and design, and if so, what is it that you think sets us apart?

I love Canadian design! I think it is unique and eclectic in many ways. I think Canadians do have a unique sense of style and design that works for our lifestyle and climate. I think because we spend 3 seasons with our doors and windows closed for the most part means we want our indoor spaces to be warm and comfortable and light-filled. When I think of how designers such as Sarah Richardson and Candace Olsen have become so recognizable and popular, it makes me think that we Canadians must have it going on!

Thank you so much for having me here at hodge:podge Barb! I am so touched that have included me alongside so many other fantastic Canadian bloggers and talent such as Suzanne Dimma. I am so grateful to be a part of this amazing blogging community! Angie xo

Phew Angie! You put my household management skills to shame. Glad to have stumbled across your blog, looking forward to implementing some of your fantastic tips!

XO Barbara

Chalkboard DIY

2012-01-27T08:36:00.000-08:00

Another project that has been on my to-do list has been to make a chalkboard for our kitchen with the vintage frame I found at a thrift shop over 6 months ago. Yes, things take me forever to do....

At first I was going to paint the frame. But after being indesicive about what colour I decided I liked the the patina of the frame as is.

All that was needed was a piece of wood. Heading to Home Depot I got a piece of 1/4" thick smooth planed pine cut to size.

Next I painted one coat of primer and coat of chalkboard paint.

I didn't take photos because I figured you all knew how to slap on paint?

Non??

I fit the painted piece into the frame and secured in place with some small finishing nails!

Easy peasy!

My artsy middle daughter could help herself but to immediately draw on it. Now we have a way of letting the family know what is for dinner, when it is dinner and what is going on for the afternoon/evening!

XO Barbara

Slowly Checking Off the To-do List

2012-01-24T08:36:00.000-08:00

Slowly my to-do list is getting shorter.

Who am I kidding??

I just keep adding more to the list, but at least I am making some headway.

This past weekend all sports activities were cancelled due to our weeklong snowfall {Vancouverites don't handle snow too well} and I had some free time on my hands.

Using these photos as inspiration:

Apartment Therapy

Luis Albuquerque for House and Home

via Inspired Design

I finally hung up this.

My husband comes home for a few days away skiing with the guys and did not like my gallery wall.

Phooey on him. I like it. It stays.

And I really want to paint the walls, getting tired of the greeny hue. I think I might go crazy and paint the walls white!

I know, I like to live dangerously.

Another little project I worked on was a Martha-inspired blind made from a gorgeous linen for my friend Tracey. In fact I am meeting up with her today. Fingers crossed this was what she had envisioned!

Since Tracey is a photographer extraordinaire, I will let her take photos of the blind up in her bathroom and then I will ~~steal~~ borrow her photos!

I also worked on another project {I know this was a crazy productive weekend!} that involved

this:

Here's to another productive week!

XO Barbara

So Canadian eh? : Shannon & Dean Acheson

2012-01-22T01:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Sunday!

Thanks for stopping by for another installment in my So Canadian eh? series.

For my newest followers you can read past interviews with fantabulously amazingly talented famous, and not--famous-but-should-be Canadians here.

This week brings a husband and wife team who have transformed an ordinary builder blah bungalow to

a beautiful abode all with their ingenious DIY skill.

Please welcome...

The Mrs. and Mr. of {aka}Design, Shannon and Dean Acheson.

They are...

The super duo have had their home featured on Apartment Therapy's House Tours, on the Steven and Chris' Show and various other "big" name websites such as DIY Showoff, Miss Mustard Seed and Remodelaholic.

I am blown away by their talent, sure helps to have a willing husband who is handy with power tools!

{ehem..are you listening???}

Whatever they dream up, the make! Words can't describe what those two are capable of, just take a look and see.

Their Union Jack coffee table made from a typical country style coffee table. Nothing a little board and batten and paint can't fix!

Cool and hip bedroom for a train loving boy!

Rustic farm table made from wood pallets.

Restoration Hardware inspired industrial shelving.

Dean made them. Yes...sick...

Their master bedroom. What a cozy space to be in. I love those lamps!

Fabulous desk niche in their open concept family/dining room.

Their dining room, all decorated with re-vamped furniture.

Tell us a bit about yourself? What is you background? Your education? Did you study art/design?

I dabbled in architecture during high school; taking drafting and AutoCAD courses and working in an architectural firm for co-op and as a summer job. After Dean and were married, I went to college for what was previously known as Desktop Publishing followed by a year of art and design; colour theory, photography (with film and darkroom!), package design, etc. I spent two years working in advertising and graphic design before we had our kids. Since then I've come back to my original love of home, but this time far more focused on interior decorating and DIY. Dean has worked in sheet metal fabrication for almost twenty years, so his ability to see and plan a project is phenomenal. We make a really great team in that way: I come up with a concept, he plans it out and constructs it , then I put the finishing touches on it.

What made you decide to start blogging?

We bought a war era bungalow in 2009 that needed so much work. About six months into the renovations, I had been reading all these other blogs and I thought I could so do that.

What have you enjoyed about blogging and what has surprised you along the way?

I have thoroughly enjoyed the process of writing and of finding my unique (I hope) voice. That is a little bit of a surprise - I had no idea I'd love it so much. I also very much enjoy the learning process; from finding sources and gleaning ideas from the web to improving my camera skills and gaining a working knowledge of seo and all the technical stuff that goes with running a blog. There is always so much to learn.

Where do you go for inspiration for your blog and for your home?

I use google image search quite a bit. And Pinterest has become a new source of beautiful images over the last few months. Other blogs provide a huge wealth of inspiration. And I still read print mags occasionally.

You have created a beautiful home with a lot of elbow grease, what tips do you have for others who want to create a fabulous home on a dime?

That's a loaded question! There are so many ways to create a great space with little money. I always say that decluttering and organizing are absolute musts. After that, decide on one large piece that you absolutely love and go from there.

As a seasoned veteran blogger, what tips do you have for other bloggers?

It's funny, I still don't think of myself as a veteran blogger. I've been asked a few times in the last few weeks for advice though, so I suppose there's something to be said for our growth. My biggest recommendation is to write about what you are passionate about, especially if you want to grow and perhaps make a little money. It takes awhile. And it takes a lot of hard work. So be patient too.

Your home has been featured on television and websites such as Apartment Therapy, how did such features come about?

Online networking. Our blog is currently linked to by over 200 other sites. Some of those links came about by others seeing our content and linking to us. Others came from me requesting a link. Then there's Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter. They each have their advantages: Pinterest is great for ideas and for drawing readers to our blog, Facebook is wonderful for connecting to our readers in a conversation and twitter is fabulous for networking with other bloggers and brands.

Tell us one thing that would surprise us!

Hmm. Tough. We're pretty open. I don't know - I don't use power tools. I'm a bit scatter brained and clumsy so anything that can take off my finger if I happen to lose focus for a few seconds is not so friendly!

How would you describe your design style?

I think we are a bit modern country, farmhouse and industrial all thrown together.

How do you balance life, family and blogging?

Sometimes well and sometimes not so well! It is something we strive for. But occasionally we bite off more than we can chew. Mostly that's my fault but Dean tends to go along with my suggestions too. Last fall we participated in an online contest, followed immediately by hosting Thanksgiving, and then our tv appearance on the Steven & Chris show. All of which were incredible experiences. But it was an unbelievably busy time. We homeschool our kids so after they get themselves breakfast, I teach them in the morning. And then while they play and read in the afternoon I work on projects and take photos. Then I hang with them a bit and when Dean gets home we all do dinner together. After whatever evening activities we have going on Dean and I read to the kids and tuck them in. Then we talk projects etc and I write, often while everyone else is asleep.

If you were given the opportunity to meet anyone or do anything, what would it be and why?

I'm not really much of a star-struck kind of person, so meeting celebrities is awesome if it happens but I don't really idolize anyone in particular. In regards to the blog, I would really love to attend a big blog conference like Haven, be on The Nate Berkus show and have our projects or house appear in print too.

Canadians have a lot do deal with by way of weather, so our homes and spaces have to work with that. We can have light bright airy spaces in the summer, but we also need to be able to pull out the plush throws for the colder seasons. I think this allows us a lot of flexibility and freedom because we're not stuck with any one thing. I think we are also a very laid back bunch overall, which makes our design very comfortable and welcoming.

Thank you so much, Barbara!!!!

Shannon {and Dean}, thank-you so much for letting us into your world. I too dabbled in architecture and drafting in high school but it was pre-AutoCad and was all hand drawing. I also worked for an engineering firm as a coop summer student!

And power tools and I don't mix, as my focus can be a bit lacking and my appendages would be at risk!

XO Barbara

The Obsession Continues...

2012-01-20T03:00:00.000-08:00

Oh....

my obsession with stripes continues.

I was reading my blogging friend Camille's blog, The Vintique Object, and saw a photo of her bathroom with this fabulous rug in it! She too is a fellow renter trying to spruce up her place within the constraints of renting.

I heart that rug!

Camille kindly sent me a link to the rug.

Thanks Camille.

Funny, she thought of me when she bought it.

Am I that obvious???

Here are some of my favourites I have found:

The Olin Rug from Crate and Barrel {that is what Camille has}

The ever-so-popular-that-I-can't-ever-find-it-in-the-store rug from Ikea

The Milliken Rug from Rugs USA

crooked stripes AKA "chevron"

This one from Dash and Albert, is an outdoor rug in navy,

but could be a good contender!

I would love a striped rug for my entry or laundry room, but wondering if any of you out there has one?

If you do, how to you keep it clean?
Or clean it?

I have a wonderful, yet occasionally drooly and dirty Chocolate Lab and need an easy to clean area rug!

Ideas?

XO Barbara

Tidbits

2012-01-19T09:42:00.000-08:00

The fabric I showed you last week has been whipped up into pillows!

I am loving the pattern combination.

I made 5 pillow covers, for 4 pillows, just in case my teenage client wants to change things up. I might try to convince them to purchase a fifth pillow insert. I like all of the patterns together.

The pillow inserts aren't down, which I would of preferred, but she has allergies. Her mom went out and purchased great inserts at a local design/fabric centre.

My client also had this huge body pillow she wanted to keep that was originally covered in a lime green fleece. She insisted on this Britten Hus fabric from Ikea {which her mom and I loathe, not the pattern but the cheapness of the fabric} But I think it looks fabulous with all the other pillows. We shall see how long it lasts with repeated washings.

Stubborn teenagers!

Next up is to find a grey paint that will complement her room, she wants a grey striped accent wall behind her bed. I hope that once she sees all the pillows, mixed in with her bedding she'll realize that the walls look best plain. She is in a fine arts school so we are collecting art work to frame and hang as a gallery wall behind her bed. I think that will give her room that personal bang it needs!

This weekend I deliver the pillows!

Finally making some headway on this room.

XO Barbara

Stripes & Crooked Stripes

2012-01-17T06:09:00.000-08:00

Most of you know that I have a thing for stripes, especially black and white stripes. So with the power of Pinterest, I created a board where I can collect any stripey inspiration that comes my way!

Have any of you succumbed to the power of Pinterest? It is so amazing. For someone who is visual like me, it is a fabulous resource to catalogue any pretty or idea that comes my way.

Here are a few beauties that have caught my eye!

Hello? Where have you been all my life?

Gorgeous entry that was featured on Apartment Therapy.

{Source unknown but got this image from Amber Interior Design. If anyone knows that source, please let me know!}

{Domino}

What could be more perfect, a striped wall and gallery wall together?

{Instagram}

Perfection!

{Design Sponge}

Stripes just make these muffins look so much better.

{Caitlin Wilson}

Nothing better than a striped headboard.

{Jessica Waks - Style at Home}

Sigh...need I say more?

{Designer: Tommy Smythe, Photo: Angus Fergusson, via House and Home}

And fabulous chevron drapes in a house designed by my favourite designer, Tommy Smythe!

Are you on Pinterest? You can follow me here.

What have your been pinning lately?

XO Barbara

So Canadian eh? : Suzanne Dimma

2012-01-15T01:00:00.000-08:00

I am on cloud nine this week, excited to have my latest guest visit my blog.
As a long time admirer, it was thrilling when she agreed to be interviewed!

Please give a warm welcome to...

Suzanne Dimma,

Editor-In-Chief of Canadian House and Home

{Photo: Sophie Giraud}

She is

Suzanne Dimma is well known in the Canadian design scene, currently she holds the coveted position of Editor-In-Chief of Canadian House and Home. But Suzanne has been involved not only in House and Home but several other Canadian publications, was a host on her show, The Style Dept, a HGTV Canada show, which I wish was still on, is a regular design expert on the Marilyn Denis Show, and was even a judge on HGTV's Designer Superstar Challenge!

I have admired her work for many years! She is truly a Canadian design icon.

I had the pleasure of meeting her at our Blend 2011 Design Blogger gathering we organized and held during IDS West in October. It was such a thrill to be in the same room as her. I was awestruck and quite nervous about meeting her. I wish we weren't so busy that evening, it would of been such a pleasure to have had a conversation with her, so it is such an honour to be able to interview her for my blog!

{That's me on the far left!}

{Photo: Per Kristiansen}

Suzanne's first home. It was her design of this space that really got my attention.
Suzanne is a master at creating timeless and classic spaces. Truly a sign of a talented designer, one whose spaces stand the test of time. I admire designers whose spaces don't scream a certain era but can look current even years later.
If you want to see more photos of her homes you can find photos here.

{Photo: Michael Alberstat} {Photo: Michael Graydon}

The entry in Suzanne's current home. I love how she mixes it up and changes things creating a whole new look. Nothing seems to stay the same, always evolving and changing with the seasons. Currently her home is undergoing a renovation, which you can follow along on her blog at houseandhome.com

{Photo: Rob Fiocca}

Suzanne and her husband Arriz at home with their cat, Z.

Love, love the gallery wall!

Wouldn't you agree that every sofa looks better with an Hermes throw?

{Photo: Rob Fiocca}

Suzanne's dining room. Ahh...wishbone chairs....

{Photo: Michael Graydon}

The fabulous off-the grid cottage Suzanne shares with her husband, featured in the October 2011 issue of Canadian House and Home.

{Photo: David Bagosy}

A vignette she pulled together for the first season of The Style Dept.

{Photo: Angus Ferguson}

A gorgeously layered and colourful living space designed by Suzanne for The Style Dept.

A frequently pinned photo and one that has made it's rounds on various blogs.

{Photo: Michael Graydon}

An amazing family friendly condo project she worked on. The luxurious black panelled walls, double ringed mirrors and scones drip with glamour, while the simple chair and teddy bear casually thrown on temper the space and give it life.

{Photo: Ron Baxter Smith}

An Ikea print ad Suzanne styled, can you spot the Ikea?

A fabulous example of mixing the high and low, antiques and big box store finds to create a one-of-a-kind space.

This ad was part of a 4 part ad campaign that won a Communications Arts Award. No surprise there!

Tell us a bit about yourself, your background, has design always been something you are drawn to? Did you go to school to study design?

Oh absolutely I have always been drawn to design! When I was in grade school my favourite toys were Lincoln Logs and Lego. I also spent hours fashioning model houses using shoe boxes and cardboard then decorating them with furniture and drapery whipped up from odds and sods found in the house. My family lived in Lincoln, Massachusetts for a few years and I attended a phenomenally creative school. One assignment involved sending us into the forest behind the school with the challenge of building a structure that would survive the winter using only what we could find in the woods. Each week we would go out and evaluate how our various stick houses were doing. I found it so exciting and I’m certain that these sorts of experiences were entirely influential. Later, when I was a teenager, my mother let me decorate the area at the back of the house where my bedroom was. She also consulted with me regularly about how to decorate and update the rest of the house. She still does!

In terms of studies, I was very focused on the art program at my high school, then after graduation, I completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts at York University with a major in graphic design and photography. Following that I completed the interior design program at Humber College. Both were truly amazing experiences.

Before you were the Editor-In-Chief of one of the most premier design magazines, Canadian House and Home, what did you do?

Just before I took on the role of Editor at House & Home I was acting as the Home design Director of the now defunct, (but fantastic), Wish magazine as well as Canadian Family and Gardening Life. I held this role for about 5 years and was, in fact, part of the team that originally created Wish. I was also hosting my own television series on HGTV called ‘the Style Dept.’ that is now seen in many countries around the world.

Prior to that I had been the Creative Director at Canadian House & Home in charge of conceptualizing and developing their home product line that was sold at over 100 Hudson Bay stores across the country. It was an entirely different type of role than the work I do at the magazine. And before that I was a freelance designer for several years, dividing my time between working on residential clients as well as working as a freelance stylist for a variety of magazines and some big advertising clients including Ikea, Home Outfitters, Eddie Bauer, Homesense, Eaton’s, the Hudson Bay Co., Harry Rosen and Pottery Barn to name a few. I was very busy! And before that I had been a senior design editor at Canadian House & Home for several years. I have also worked for several different design firms doing everything from retail to corporate design work. That’s my resume in a nutshell.

How did you get your big break?

My big break actually came back at the age of 15 when I landed the summer internship for Lynda Reeves, House & Home’s publisher, when she was a practicing decorator. I assisted her for two or three summers working out of her home office and obviously we kept in contact afterwards. We have a long history and she has given me several work opportunities. Acting as a judge on HGTV’s Designer Superstar Challenge was also a big break for me as it led to securing my own television show as well as the opportunity to appear regularly on various television series including the Marilyn Denis show now.

Even though most of us would feel that your job would be our dream job, what goals or aspirations do you have?

That’s a tough one because I really do feel like I have reached the pinnacle of my career in design media in Canada, which was always my goal. And I am really focused on where I am right now. I suppose that down the line it could be interesting to collaborate with my husband, Arriz, on doing beautiful and quality residential work.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Like so many people, I don’t have a lot of free time so it is very precious. I try to escape to the country whenever I can. I love the outdoors and nature and am happiest when I’m swimming in the lake at the cottage, reading by the water…really anything by the water is perfect. I love to snowshoe and cross country ski in the winter. I am addicted to yoga so I spend a lot of time at my local yoga studio, Octopus Garden. And I love spinning. My idea of a perfect weeknight is to make a fantastic meal at home with my husband, Arriz, and sit by the fire with our two cats, Po and Z (pronounced Zee), watching a movie. I am usually pretty wiped at the end of the day so nothing beats staying at home! And I love to check out the restaurant scene with friends wherever I am.

As Editor-In-Chief, for a fantastic Canadian publication, where do you find inspiration for the magazine and for your own home/ design work? How do you decide what makes the cut and what doesn’t?

House & Home has a distinct and specific taste level. When scouting shots come across my desk, I know fairly quickly if it meets our criteria or not. I know it like the back of my hand as does the senior editorial staff. It is difficult to put into words but, above all else, we look for quality, sophistication, creativity and authenticity. We map out our issue themes every year so we need to ensure that the spaces we choose work within them. And we love to discover new talent.

As far as inspiration, it comes from everywhere; designers, books, our favourite stores and shops, the various international gift and furniture shows, other magazines, and of course blogs and the internet. The edit team has lots of brainstorming meetings where everyone has the opportunity to present their views on various design ideas so we also get inspiration from the office dialogue and collaboration. They are a pretty creative bunch!

What is involved in being the Editor-In-Chief, briefly fill us in on your typical day and the role you play at the magazine?

My days are pretty hectic. Most days I am in back-to-back meetings because everyone on the team needs to get approval on everything that goes in the magazine. There are initial planning meetings where the design editors make proposals for story ideas. There are meetings to choose locations and discuss props and the angles of shots. There are meeting with the art department to discuss layouts and meetings with the copy and features dept. to discuss the packaging and writing. There are budget meetings to make sure we aren’t spending too much. And there are some very in-depth cover meetings. I also meet regularly with the communications departments about events like the various Interior Design Shows or our annual trends breakfast. And there are meetings with our I-pad dept and the website team to make sure the magazine and our web presence gel.

I wasn’t kidding when I said there were a lot of meetings!

During the week of production before we send the pages out to press, most of my time is spent reading, editing and tweaking layouts. It is a deadline driven business, which makes it frenzied at times and there is always some drama or last minute panic. I have to sign off on every page. This is usually when I write my Editor’s letter as well.

In the middle of all this there are various photo shoots in studio or on location to attend. I also go to numerous events and store openings. Plus some suppliers will come to our offices to present new product developments. Now and then there are some fantastic press trips that I am lucky to be invited on. Last year I flew to Paris with Hermes and the year before I visited the Milan furniture fair — both were glorious. I love to travel so this is the best part of my job. I have family and friends in NYC and Chester, Nova Scotia so whenever there is a photo shoot in either place I’ll go and handle the art direction.

Tweeting, blogging and posting on Pinterest have also become a part of my job so I work that in. Of course I also make appearances and presentations at various events. And I film a lot for our on line TV show, interviewing homeowners and international designers and doing house tours. And I go to the Marilyn Denis show once a month or so to talk with Marilyn about design …that involves a whole other series of meetings!

My days are seriously jam-packed.

What tips do you have for aspiring designers in getting their design work published or to hone their skills?

First off, get the adequate training. My time in the interior design program at Humber was invaluable. And if you can, apprentice with someone whose work you admire where you can learn from the best and also make connections with the trades and key industry players.

To get published, you first need to take a project to completion. We are far more likely to publish a house that is finished than one that is only half way there. Pay special attention to the details and the layers. I have seen some gorgeous homes architecturally speaking (some from fairly prolific designers and architects) that we simply cannot print because they were totally empty of decorating or any sense of life. But it doesn’t have to be the Royal Palace for me to take notice. House and Home has published the first apartments of some established designers including Brian Gluckstein, Sarah Richardson, Candice Olsen and Tommy Smythe, not to mention myself. All of these spaces were small, affordable but very well done.

Next, it is beneficial if you can take a great photograph so you can document your work well. Take lots of pictures. My biggest pet peeve is when people send a shot of a fireplace mantle and a chair against a wall, for example, and nothing else. We need to see the entire house and that includes a kitchen, one bathroom, one bedroom, a front entry area, and living room… minimum. Pull back and capture everything. If you have a good project and good photos, you’re well on your way. A great story helps as well. Tell me the story and send me the pictures! I love getting a surprise gorgeous house in an e-mail or letter. In fact, I would send both. That way I have a digital copy and a hard copy to act as a reminder.

What are some design faux pas that you think should just be abolished?

- I am not a fan of leather parsons chairs. They are far too common. I was tired of them back in the 80’s and I still am.

- Guitars and other musical instruments as décor with the exception being the baby grand piano

- The over zealous use of recessed pot lights. There are so many gorgeous fixtures out there now. Invest in a few great lights and cut back on the pots.

- Matchy-matchy colour and fabric schemes. I think most of us will agree that the most inspiring spaces lean more to the eclectic side.

- The same goes for matched sets of furniture. When was the last time that you saw a gorgeous bedroom with a matching bed, and end tables and bureau?

- Over-glamourized effects. It just isn’t relevant anymore.

If you could meet anyone or do anything who or what would it be?

To meet:

I would like to have the privilege to meet either of my style icons; Muriel Brandolini or Ines de la Fressange. I admire both of them for their confidence and passion and would love to speak to them about how they make their visions happen.

To do:

I have aspirations of designing an off-the-grid eco lodge experience in northern Ontario based on the elemental design of my own cottage. There is nothing like it here and I would love to create the same type of environment for other people to enjoy. My experience there has changed my life and it would be nice to be able to share it.

You are surrounded by such amazing design inspiration, how do you decide what and how to decorate your own homes?

It is incredibly difficult not to get influenced by all of the inspiring spaces that I see daily. I have developed a rather bad and expensive addiction to renovating and redecorating because of it! (There are worse addictions though.) In fact, I am about to embark on a reno at my Toronto home soon and I have changed my mind hundreds of times because of finding or seeing something I like better since my last decision.

But my final decision is often a matter of budget. I also pay attention to the space and items that I already have. Not every look can be transported to every space. So this narrows things down a bit. I often advise people when they are just starting to make those big purchases for their home, like a sofa or a bed, to buy wisely and take the time to think through the decision because you will probably have it for a long time. Think about what kind of space you eventually want to live and aim toward that. Like the fashion world, it’s usually better to invest in one or two truly fantastic items rather than a plethora of poorly made things. Antiques and classics are always my starting point.

Your husband is Arriz Hassam, a partner in the design firm, 3rd Uncle, how do you two work together in designing your homes? Who has the most say, or the most influence, he or you, or is it pretty even?

Oh, I have to be careful answering this one!

Actually, we work amazingly well together. We really allow each other equal say because our skill sets are quite different. Arriz has a degree in architecture so his main focus is always on construction and structure. He has an incredible gift for solving spatial issues. I like to focus more on the final look, furniture and space planning and decorating. But one of my favourite things to do is to sketch out ideas together. Now and then we disagree but we always come up with a solution.

What are your views on the role of Canadian design on the world stage? Do you feel that Canadians have a unique sense of style, the way we design and decorate our homes? If so, what do you think sets us apart?

I speak to so many international designers who are impressed by the Canadian Design Scene. We can proudly boast some larger than life stars at all ends of the design spectrum including Yabu Pushelberg, Shim Sutclilffe, KPMB, Powell and Bonell, Umbra, Brian Gluckstein as well as Sarah Richardson, to name a few.

I don’t particularly see Canadian designers as having a specific role related to their nationality. I believe that our role is the same as good design world-wide; to deliver stellar work that ultimately improves the quality of people’s lives while connecting them to beauty. I would, however, like to see Canadian designers make a mark through an outstanding effort to operate with responsibility when it comes to ecological concerns.

In regards to defining a unique Canadian style, design has become so global that I think it is difficult to distinguish a style with a place. Words that come to mind when I think of our design scene as a collective though are: authentic, subtle, thoughtful, and restrained. What sets us apart though are our heritage and natural resources – especially our wood. I think a lot of people see Canadian style in things like fur and antlers and rustic, organic qualities. I do see a lot of homes with antlers! But it is really only a small portion of the kind of work that’s being done here. It is interesting though that the oldest company in Canada, The Hudson Bay Co., is in the midst of a total brand overhaul and is suddenly ultra-cool. Those red, yellow, black and green stripes, truly iconic Canadiana, are showing up in some of the most fascinating interiors as well as on the most stylish people at home and abroad.

Suzanne, thank-you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to participate in my series. I am truly honoured and flattered you agreed! What a busy life you lead.

I can relate to making things out of Lego, as a child I loved to build houses with what little Lego I had. I was also constantly making new cardboard box homes for my Barbies and I re-decorated my Barbie house constantly!
As for my room, my patient mother let me paint my whole room several times and create a rainbow theme - yikes - so 80's. Down to rainbow print sheets and drapes, which she gave to me last year for posterity sake!

XO Barbara

Slow Progress

2012-01-12T08:15:00.000-08:00

Remember in August when I shared my first design project?

A good friend enlisted me to help re-decorate her teen daughter's room. After many months of emailing back and forth, we have nailed down a design scheme.

What we started with...

The room's bright candy colours have been painted a soothing warm white, Dove Wing by Benjamin Moore. New furniture was purchased and now the fabric has arrived! The daughter is really attracted to graphic prints, so we have a plethora of them. She was really insistent on the circle duvet and House fabric from Ikea. So I have had to work around that.

Funny thing, was one of the first colours she wanted in the room was a spicey orange colour - and what a surprise when a month later Pantone announced Tangerine Tango as the colour of 2012.

Here is what we came up with {except we aren't using the yellow and white stripes}

I am excited to get working on whipping up pillows. We have yet to decide on which to make a roman blind with. Will wait until we get everything into the room, there are a lot of patterns at play so we want to make sure we don't overwhelm the room.

In exchange of helping with the re-decorating of the room my good friend who is an aspiring photographer took our family's photos. My profile picture was taken by her!

She is then going to photograph the room for me - can't wait to show you the finished room!

Hopefully I can get this room done faster than the rooms in my own house!

XO Barbara

Random Bits of Loveliness and A Guest Post

2012-01-10T01:00:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been having a hard getting posts written as during the day I am busy during the day and at night running around some more. With 3 kids needing to do homework, and one computer with a

s-l-o-w internet connection that leaves my Macbook as the coveted piece of technology. By the time I get my hands on it, I am tired.

Can anyone relate??

But I did manage to squeeze in a guest post over at decor happy, it's all about organization over at her blog today! Funny, we all seemed to write about organizing the same thing - ahhhh...great minds think alike! Come on over and see what!

I also participated in Inspired Me Heather's "What I liked about your blog" blog critique!

My blog was critiqued by two bloggers and in turn I critiqued two blogs as well. Then Heather sent us the reviews, all done anonymously.

I got some amazing feedback from two reviewers {who I assume also have blogs} and was relieved that, for the most part, the two reviewers actually liked my blog! Phew...I was bracing myself. Their feedback was sooooooo incredibly helpful and a few of their suggestions were some things I was hoping to change. Nice to have a fresh set of eyes take a look at your blog and critique it. Thanks to whoever you are, your thoughts were greatly appreciated.

I will summarize what they liked:

They liked my large photos and the photos themselves. Gee thanks!! Because I think my photos are the pits. I want my photos to look like Centsational Girl's. Slowly I am learning the ins and outs of our SLR. My tripod broke which makes it hard taking photos without it!
Liked my navigations bar. And varied text and fonts within my posts. I do try to spice things up. I love fonts and the different effects they can create in writing.
They liked me :), and my projects. Glad I am inspiring others to DIY!

Their suggestions for improvement:

Both said they found the font colour I use for linking was hard to see. You are right. Grey can be hard on the eyes. Will work on changing that.
Also justifying my text. Good idea. I thought I was being all artsy fartsy centering my text. Maybe it is hard to follow. My high school English teacher would probably roll her eyes. {Shh... don't tell her I am a teacher too!}
And finally, this one I REALLY want to fix, is having a photo for every DIY project I list under my DIY page. Only recently have I figured out how to link a photo. So this project will take me some time but definitely help reader's navigate.

WOW - thanks for all of that!

I hope to re-vamp the blog soon. Time for a change and a lovely blogger who is really good at these things has kindly offered to help me :) Thanks! So I am now pinning my favourite blog headers I like and rounding up fonts that tickle my fancy!

XO Barbara

So Canadian eh? : Tim Lam

2012-01-08T07:58:00.000-08:00

Welcome back to a new year of So Canadian eh? with another fantastic line-up of amazingly talented Canadians!

Little did I know when I started this series a year ago how much fun I would have getting to know Canadians involved in the design scene. I have had a chance to interview several of my design idols along with friends, designers and design bloggers living across the Great White North and abroad.

What a great way to start 2012 with a fabulous blogger and designer who has used his home to unleash his creativity!

Welcome...

Tim Lam of Design Maze

He is

I first "met" Tim via Twitter, and through Rambling Renovator's blog and was completely floored when I toured his blog and condo! His condo is an ever evolving design lab where he changes the whole scheme continuously experimenting with colour, pattern and fabulous furniture finds. At first glance you would think Tim designs for a living and you will be surprised to find out his "day" job! His condo is jaw dropping, every nook and cranny beautifully styled, all looking like like he spent a million, but in reality he is a deal seeker and creative genius.

A few other amazing facts about Tim, the nursery he designed won Odeedoh's Small Kids Big Color Contest in 2011 in the International Division.

A gorgeous cheery yellow colour scheme with a mix of high and low, is perfection!

Lucky little person who gets to chill in that room.

And Tim's condo was featured on Steven and Chris' TV show, a Canadian home, lifestyle and design TV show.

I see Tim's career in design taking off, he is uber-talented and I am in awe! I think he and I could be great BFF's :)

What I love his how his space evolves, changing over the year. He uses different colours, art and accessories to give his place a whole new look!

Tell us a bit about your background? your education? Has design always been in your blood?

Art has always been a big part of my life, and I owe it all to my late mother who discovered my artistic talent at a very young age. When most kids were out on the playground, I would sit quietly at my craft corner creating my master pieces. I remember one time my punishment for not doing my homework (I think I was 4 years old at the time) was a cancellation of an origami project!

I studied arts throughout high school, and was fascinated by art history and obsessed with architectural designs. I also had a brief taste of "interior design" at Grade 12. Unfortunately, my teacher's personal taste on interior decorating and a trip to the Spadina House (I haven't developed my appreciation for heritage buildings at the time), had me convinced that interior design was not my cup of tea. At a decision point, I decided to enrol for Accountancy Studies and became an auditor by trade. Yes I know, everyone dropped their jaws when I told them what I do for a living!

My passion for interior decorating was rekindled via Trading Spaces, The Painted House with Debbie Travis, and Room Services with Sarah Richardson. Thanks to my very understanding parents, I spent most of my holiday breaks redoing their house one room at a time during my university days! My first makeover was my old bedroom and I still remember the sea foam sponge I used for the "special effect" and my DIY stencil as headboard!

What made you decide to start a blog?

The idea of blogging actually came from a good friend of mine, Scott Young: an extremely talented photographer, who suggested I should document my thoughts and all the hard work I've done to revamp my 30 year-old condo. I then thought what an amazing idea to use my blog as a venue to share my thoughts and images of my newly renovated condo with friends and family, especially with many of them living in Asia. I'm so glad that Scott put this nail right in my head. It is absolutely one of my best decisions I ever made in my life!

What have you enjoyed about blogging?

I love sharing what inspired me at the moment and the latest products I found in my favourite stores on my blog. It is very rewarding to hear the supportive feedbacks and comments from my readers and other fellow design bloggers. Through blogging, I've met a group of amazingly talented bloggers, have the opportunity to be part of a great community project "Bloggers Give Back" to transform a garden at George Herman House, and attended the bloggers meet up and a tour of the Christmas Street at the Bay! All these amazing experiences wouldn't have happened if I haven't started my blog a little over a year ago.

How would you describe your design style?

Always inspired by colors, patterns, and stunning spaces in magazines or on TV, my preference in design changes constantly. However, the one design style that links all my spaces together is a timeless, elegant look with a twist. I believe in getting the fundamental elements as classic as possible for maximum versatility and longevity of the spaces. After all, not too many of us can afford to re-decorate the entire house from the ground up season after season, neither should it be anyway from an environmental stand point. It is with the twist where I inject bold colors and patterns to give any spaces its personality, and to experiment a little with trendy, cutting-edge accessories.

I am also a big believer of shopping green, especially when it comes to furniture. Pre-loved furniture are often solidly built and if they have lasted 40 years (and still standing tall and proud), these pieces may even out lived us! So instead of sending these well-made pieces to landfills, why not embracing the challenges to restyle them with new outfits? I found this up-cycle approach to furnishing rooms extremely rewarding. After all, it's all about your imagination and creativity!

{Hard to believe the sofa, slipper and womb chairs are thrifted}

Where do you find inspiration for your fabulous condo and your blog?

My condo was hugely influenced by the first season of Sarah's House. I loved everything room and all the details Sarah and Tommy injected into the house. For instance, I applied the cream and grey colour combination for my kitchen cabinetry, installed high baseboard for extra visual interest, and of course my favourite part of all, the mix of patterns and textiles throughout the house!

My condo is my playground to test out different ideas and be experimental. After living with bold colors accessories for a couple of years, I am now drawn toward neutral and refined home décor and accessories. And just like magic, my space is now full of neutrals and rich in textures! If my colourful condo represents youthfulness, then my neutral refined condo is classic, elegant, and all grown up.

What is one design faux pas that you wish could be banished?

Never one stop shop! I know it is easy to go to your favourite store, hand over your credit card, and wait a few weeks for the entire living room set to pop right at your house. The difference between a house and a home is its character and personality, and that can never be achieved through one stop shop. Just because the pieces play well in the showroom doesn't mean you will like them forever in your own home. My approach has always been visiting stores at different price points and then mingle my finds together for an eclectic, yet cohesive and dynamic look.

I'm currently working on a beautiful home and will be doing just that! Can't wait to share more of this gorgeous home with you all in 2012.

{Tim's high and low dining room.}

What do you like to do in your free time?

I don't get too much free time these days between my day job, blogging & related media functions, and a couple of decorating projects on the go. However, I do make an effort to squeeze out a few days every now and then to visit a couple of my favourite B&Bs in the Collingwood areas, where I unwind and relax. This is the time when I "do nothing": sitting by the window with my green tea and simply watching the water (yes, the B&B has a pond) or taking in the breathtaking landscape our nature has to offer.

Tell us one thing that would surprise us!

I actually go camping once a year! We are not talking about log cabin or car camping with facility on the side. It is full blown putting everything on a canoe, paddle over to a remote island, set up a tent, and rough it for a few days out in the nature. Somehow people never seem to be able to picture a city boy like me roughing it in the wilderness.

If that fails to surprise you, this will! My classmates used to call me "the walking snowman" from Grade 3 to Grade 6, since I actually weighed heavier back then than I am now!

What goals or aspirations do you have for your blog?

My goal for my blog is to inspire my readers to try out different ideas in their own homes, may it be great finds from my store alerts, the latest innovative projects from design shows, my one of a kind DIY ideas, or interior decorating ideas through my transformation projects.

I am also very excited to start a new series on my blog featuring gorgeous homes of some amazingly talented design bloggers in town! I'm also considering the idea of adding a pillow line on etsy! {Me too Tim!}

If you could meet anyone or do anything, who or what would it be?

Well, I actually have met Sarah and Tommy, but I would love to work with them on projects to witness how the dynamic duo creates all these stunningly beautiful spaces. It would be an out of this world, inspirational experience for me to "live through" the entire design process with the SR team from concept, sourcing, custom work, to polishing up the room with finishing touches.

I think Canadians definitely have a unique sense of style when it comes to designing and decorating our homes. The fact that our communities welcome and embrace all culture from around the globe certainly has a significant impact and influence on the way we live and how we decorate our spaces. Canada maybe a young country compared to other European countries, but we are certainly the pioneers when it comes to incorporating other cultural references as our own and reinterpreting "Canadian Style" as a whole. This gives Canada its leading edge as a key player of innovative designs and sets our designs apart from "North America".

One of my favourite Canadian items is the classic stripped blanket in pure wool from the Bay. This century old design is simple, the blanket is well-made, not to mention it is filled with cherishable memories from our canoe trips, cozy evenings at the chalet, and quiet moments with our loved ones. Now that's our Canadian design!

Tim, I am completely blown away by your talent! If Sarah and Tommy don't snap you up quick, they are missing out!

Hugs.

XO Barbara

A Fabulous Modern Country Kitchen

2012-01-05T05:55:00.000-08:00

First of all, thanks for all your overwhelmingly honest and supportive comments on my last post! You sure know how to make a person feel like they are supported and not alone in this virtual world!

Now onto an amazing kitchen tour was in my inbox on Monday from Canadian House and Home Online TV that I had to share!

Did you know you can subscribe to Canadian House and Home online TV? Then you get fabulous house tours, trend reports, DIY's all sent to your inbox!

And don't forget, webisodes end up on the House and Home app, which I wrote about here, as well - so when you are sitting around bored and have your smartphone handy - you can watch delicious design TV!

Since I live with my sad rental "stuck-in-the-90's-solid-oak-heaven-forbid-you-paint-oak" kitchen, I drool over kitchens that are a far cry from mine!

There are no photos on the House and Home website yet, and the February 2012 issue has yet to arrive in my mailbox so I leave you with my screenshots and a link.

Would you believe the cabinets are all from Ikea?

{Click on this photo to lead you to the tour.}

Gorgeous Calcutta marble waterfall counter, something you would not expect to see in your quintessential country kitchen.

I am noticing butcher block counter tops coming back....love the earthiness they bring to a space. Notice how they run the counter across the window!

The gorgeous fixtures, a mix of black and brass.

And that fabulous rustic tile, what is not to love?

The open shelving with baskets and old bottles really give this kitchen that country feel.

For those of you that know me, I LOVE black and white, this kitchen has the perfect balance of the two. Mixed in with a modern elements such as the amazing gooseneck brass faucet, marble counter, sleek hardware, apron front sink and few rustic touches, such as the industrial rustic stools, wood countertops, baskets, Delft-like tiles creates the most amazing blend!

Can't wait for the issue to arrive in my mailbox!

XO Barbara

Goals, Aspirations and a Little Sap

2012-01-03T01:00:00.000-08:00

Wow, it's 2012.

Hope you had a fabulous New Years!

Hard to believe, but time flies when you are having fun.

But what I love about the new year is the freshness, excitement and wonder it brings.

What lies ahead?

The possibilities are endless. But I find with the new year comes reflection and hope for the future, a chance to start fresh.

I usually don't make any resolutions as I end up disappointing myself, such as lose, 10lbs, stop drinking coffee {like that is ever going to happen}, blah, blah blah.....

Instead...

What do I hope for, envision, dream about for 2012?

1. To make my home sing! To throw caution to the wind and take chances with design. To further use my home as my canvas and create a home I can be proud of.

You may not know this, I procrastinate in finishing projects because then I have to take photos and show you the whole thing. For me that opens up the vulnerability and I am not sure I can take the criticism. My home is far from perfect. It isn't where I want it to be. It is NOT my dream home and we are renting. So not only does my home embarrass me, so does my furniture. We bought most of our furniture pre-blogging days {thought I had some sense of design, but sadly it lacked creativity} and only about 4 years ago when we were moving to the US. For most of our married life I lived with hand-me-down crap. We had no money to spare {lost $$$ on real estate} and when we finally had some spare change we bought everything almost at once and in sets.

I know - bad, bad design.
But what did I know then? I wasn't privy to all the fabulous inspiration that is found through blogs, Pinterest, etc.

So I live with my espresso brown furniture, which Meredith Heron and Margot Austin { the fabulous Canadian designer and design editor}, once had a twitter conversation about how they loathe espresso stained furniture, and I adore those two women, so my heart sank - as I have too much espresso stained furniture. Oh and the icing on the cake was reading "The Perfectly Imperfect Home" by Deborah Needleman where she states "brown sucks the life out of a room." Ouch!

via

But alas, thank God it is all Ikea, so I am going to paint the espresso out!
Good bye espresso! Hello paint!
{my hubby just about had a coronary when he heard that - what? paint wood??}

Which brings me to my second point...

2. To take chances.

In my home, with colour, pattern and art. In blogging. In my life.

3. To relax when it comes to blogging.

I try not to worry about stats, followers, etc. You hear that banter all the time and quite frankly is stressful! I feel like I am back in high school and it is all about who is popular, who has blonder hair, less pimples, bigger boobs, etc. Not sure where I want my blog to go, I am avoiding monetizing because then I have to pay attention to all that crap and I am not sure I want to.

Am I alone in this?

4. To be happy with what I have.

I find blogging and design brings so much fulfillment but on the other hand brings this insatiable desire to always want more, the latest trend, the "it" light fixture, furniture item, accessory, that sometimes I find that so revolting.

There...I said it.

The whole desire for more material items can really start to make me feel icky.

So I want to feel blessed and grateful for what I have. For those who have been following along on my ride, you know we rent the home we are in. There are days it is so liberating, no debt, no leaky roof to fix, not having to replace the hot water tank. But there are days when I see fabulous kitchen renos, amazing herringbone floors, that I want to cry. It pains me that I can't have the dream kitchen, bathroom and flooring! But I need to focus on creating beauty within those limits and to be grateful I have a roof over my head and a wonderful family to fill the rooms with.

"Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never, ever have enough"
~Oprah Winfrey

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5. To slow down and listen, to really listen.

I find let things keep my busy but I don't take the time to just listen to my family and the world around me.

6. To take a leap of faith.

This blog has been one leap. Now I need to further that leaping and not second guess myself, to over analyze and feel anxious but to let go and be free and go with the flow.

7. And finally a mini-resolution: to drink more water.

via

Yup, simple and small but hard to do! Fingers crossed I can keep this one going all year.

8. Finally to be the best I can be!

Phew!

That was a mouthful.
But I feel that if it is written down for you all to read, then I am held accountable.
Thanks for listening.

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Lastly, thanks for all your loyalty, encouragement, friendship, and comments! You all helped make 2011 memorable!

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Bring it on 2012, show me what you got.....

XO Barbara

Top Ten DIY Projects of 2011

2011-12-31T01:00:00.000-08:00

As the year comes to an end, I want to wish you all a wonderful and happy new year.

May 2012 bring you health and happiness!

Since I love me a good DIY, I thought I'd share what kept me busy around here this year!

You will notice a theme:

#1: I love to sew pillows

#2: I love black and white stripes.

#1: Monogrammed pillow

#2: Re-vamped side table for my daughter's room.

You can read how Carol from The Design Pages and I took the same side table and gave it two different looks!

#3: Re-vamped chair

#4: Re-upholstered chair

#5: Black and White Striped Curtains made from Ikea Drapery Panels.

#6: Roman blind and Tutorial

#7: Re-covered bulletin board

#8: Chiang Mai Dragon Pillow #1

and #2

#9: Pom-pom fringed pillow.

#10: Painted Striped Wall

There you have it, DIY fun here at hodge:podge.

Looking forward to tackling my to-do list and finally finishing some long overdue projects in 2012 -may this be the year where I don't procrastinate!

Happy New Year!

XO Barbara

Thanks: Rambling Renovators

2011-12-30T01:00:00.000-08:00

Hope you all had a great Christmas. We sure did! I just spent the last three days at the hockey rink, my son's hockey team was in a tournament and won bronze! My voice is hoarse from cheering and arms sore from shaking our noise makers!

But...

A great big thanks to Jennifer from Rambling Renovators for having me yesterday as part of her Great Reads 2011 series. So honoured to be part of such an amazing group of fabulous bloggers!

Love Jennifer and her blog, had the privilege of meeting her this summer, she is such an encouraging friend and blogger :)

Be sure to check out all her Great Reads blogs and our favourite posts!

XO Barbara

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T01:00:00.000-08:00

I had great intentions to post over the holidays but we are having too much fun over here. We are enjoying family time so I will be back in 2012!

photo: me

I am extremely grateful for all the wonderful readers, followers and friends that have come by this blog!

From the bottom of my heart, thank-you for your support and friendship!

Wishing all a wonderful Christmas season and many blessings in the New Year!

XO Barbara

Once Upon a Gingerbread House

2011-12-20T07:36:00.000-08:00

Last week the kids and I made our annual gingerbread houses.

The girls and I had fun making our tidy pretty houses with neatly lined up candies.

My son on the other hand decided to turn his gingerbread house into a military compound supplied with artillery on the roof, barricade of pretzels in the front and liquorice strings tossed aimlessly about on the roof to throw off any possible invaders.

Gotta love the creativity!

I used the best gingerbread dough ever, a recipe I got from Martha Stewart years ago.

Works perfectly every time!

In case you were wondering, the "glue" is basic Royal Icing. The fun part is watching the kids slowly sneak pieces of candy off of their gingerbread houses, even though the rule is no eating until Christmas Eve!

My shopping is almost finished and have a few more goodies to bake.
How are your Christmas preparations coming along?

XO Barbara

So Canadian eh? : Ashli Malinek

2011-12-18T01:00:00.000-08:00

What a fun year it has been getting to know so many amazingly talented Canadians across this country. This series has given me so much pleasure to write! But this post will be the last one for this year, as I am going to take a break for the Christmas holidays! Have no fear, my list of Canadians is still very long, there are more to come.

What a fabulous way to end the year to have an amazing local blogger come to visit today, whom I would say is the Martha Stewart of Vancouver! She can design a fabulous home on a dime, create mouthwatering menus and recipes, and makes homemaking fun!

Please welcome.....

Ashli Malinek of Mini Manor formerly Mallairdville Manor!

She is...

Ashli, a local blogger, the queen of green, proudly lives on a "one income budget in a two income world". Her blog, a daily read for me, is always full of fabulous budgeting, frugal and housekeeping tips.

Ashli and her husband have taken a basic builder home from "yawn" to "yowza!" on a tight budget. Hard to believe most of her furniture and accessories were found on Craigslist.

She really makes penny pinching trendy. There is never a dull moment at Mini Manor!

Want to see her jaw dropping home?

Come on...

Her breathtaking kitchen.

Living space.

Cozy library.

Office space.

Dining room with their DIY barn door. Isn't it amazing?

Master bedroom.

Guest room.

Tell us a bit about yourself, your background, has design always been something you are drawn to?

I'm Ashli and I'm a 28 year old housewife, from Big Beautiful British Columbia. My background is about as eclectic as my design sense, I'm 1/4 Chinese, 1/4 Portuguese, 1/4 Irish and 1/4 Scottish.

As far as my love of design it's always been something I've been drawn too, while other kids were drawing puppies I was designing floor plans.

What made you decide to start blogging?

My love of everything home comes from my mom, so when she moved to Vancouver Island 2 years ago we weren't able to share our latest finds with each other. I would send her emails with pictures attached but My mom has a mortal fear about opening attachments in emails, in her words "They could be full of computer killing virus's". So instead I started a blog so she could just type in an address and see all the goings on around here. She was my first follower and still my biggest fan!

What have you enjoyed about blogging and what has surprised you along the way?

There are so many things I enjoy about blogging, mostly it's all the wonderful people I've met along the way, all the amazingly sweet and thoughtful comments. What has surprised me is how much I love blogging, I really started it as a way to keep my mom in the loop and it's turned into so much more!!

Where do you go for inspiration for your blog?

Like most of us I'm a Pintrest-a-holic. I also follow so many blogs I've lost count, there is such an amazing community of creative people out there in the blogging world. And design shows, Sarah's House, Divine Design, Design Inc. my PVR is full of all of 'em.

What are your hopes and dreams for your future?

My hope for the future is to have tiny little mini manor rugrats running around the place (aka Children).

My dream for the blog is that it keeps growing, and we keep finding new opportunities around every corner. One of the best parts about having a blog is opening your email every morning . . . you never know what might be in there!

You are known for living within your means, yet that hasn't cramped your style {your home is gorgeous} what are some easy things people can do to save a few pennies around their home?

First Thank you very much!! (I'm blushing) DIY is my biggest tip, I steal ideas from everywhere then do it myself, everything from table runners to doors, from art to pillows we make it ourselves. Second, CRAIGSLIST and Patience. I wait to find what I need on Craigslist, it requires a few minutes a day but I check it everyday looking for what I need, something always comes up. And last, good old fashioned Leg work, If I'm looking for something I go to every store looking for deals, I go to every site I can think of looking for a steal, nothing can replace research!

How would you describe your design style?

I would say it's contemporary traditional, slightly eclectic, simple and whimsical. But ask me in a month and it might be different! Heck, I've already changed this answer twice in 30 mins :)

Tell us one thing about you that would surprise us!

I've recently become a bit of a coupon-er . . . under my bathroom sink I have 25 bottles of mouth wash . . . eek!

If you were given the opportunity to meet anyone or do anything, what or who would it be and why?

I would say I'd like to meet Martha Stewart on a good day, I think she'd be very scary if she was having a bad day.

I'd also Love to meet Gwyneth Paltrow. I think we'd be buddies . . . in my head we already are :P

But I think most of all I'd like to be the third designer to Sarah Richardson and Tommy Smythe, It would be perfect . . . I'm not as funny as Tommy and I'm not as tall as Sarah, I'd fit right in ;)

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love to play volleyball and tennis, skiing in the winter. I love window shopping at stores I can't afford, I grab a coffee and walk through beautiful stores like Restoration Hardware and Liberty, making mental notes of things to copy and make myself.

What are your views on the role Canadian design plays in the world design scene? Do you feel that Canadians have a unique sense of style and design, and if so, what is it that you think sets us apart?

I think that Canada is sometimes forgotten about when it comes to worldly design, I mean there Danish modern, and french provincial and American country, but no one ever says "oh that . . . that's Canadian _______", with a complete exception being the Hudson bay blankets :)

I do think that Canadians have their own sense of style and design, it think it's warm and cozy and less serious! I think Canadian style is fun and more whimsical.

Ashli, what an amazing sense of style and outlook you have! I think you'd be a fabulous addition to Sarah's team {a dream of mine as well!}

Can't wait to see what else you and your husband "cook" up next year!

XO Barbara

Thank-you Style at Home

2011-12-16T09:29:00.000-08:00

A big thanks

to Style at Home for inviting me to participate in Blogger' Christmas Decorating Tips!

This is my two bits....

So honoured to be amongst the fabulous Rambling Renovators, Desire to Decorate, decor happy, Vintage Paper Parade, aDesign Dock, Sense and Simplicity and Wicked and Weird.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Come back Sunday for another installment in my So Canadian, eh? series.

It will be my last one for this year. I have an amazing local blogger lined up for this Sunday!

And to kick off the new year

I have a fabulous guest lined up for January, she is a mover and and a shaker in the design publication industry!

XO Barbara

Holiday Home Tour 2011

2011-12-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

The halls are decked, stockings hung, tree decorated, gingerbread houses baked, and baubles hung!

Nothing says cozy like a home decorated for the holidays.

I kept it simple this year, did not buy anything,
just moved things around and clipped greenery from the yard.

Come on in, let me show you around.

{Ignore the carpet on the stairs - I loathe that carpet, but as a renter can't change it} Also hoping to convince my landlords to let me paint the railing!

A wreath inspired by the fabulous Eddy Ross.

Nothing make me more happy than this ebony bowl. It came all the way from Tanzania in my sister's backpack to western Canada and then on a plane with my mom to my home when I lived in Virginia and now resides back in western Canada.

Velvet stockings I made when my girls were little {and I quickly had to make another when I found out I was expecting #3!). I wanted to replace them this year but my kids wouldn't let me!

I love Nutcrackers. It is my favourite ballet {have seen it so many times} and love collecting them!

Homespun Christmas tree with my Czech and Swedish ornaments mixed with a mish mash of favourites!

See the reindeer? My husband gave me a box with 5 beautiful ornaments on our first Christmas. They are some of my favourite.

Our annual gingerbread houses which we had fun creating.

See the one in the back? There is a story behind that one. Will share in a day or so!

My Czech creche that my dad brought from the Czech Republic for me, I had one growing up and loved making up stories in my head inspired by the scene.

Love the story it tells, all the villagers bringing gifts for the newborn King.

Heading upstairs, the kids got in on the action and grabbed a wreath to hang on their doors.

{I have a box of about 11 wreaths, our house was a Colonial style home in Virginia and you hung a wreath outside on every window during Christmas, so I have a lot of wreaths!!)

Lots of photos!!

I had fun practicing with our SLR and two different lenses!

Thanks for coming over and visiting!

Hoping to share our gingerbread house making adventures in the next day or so! When you make gingerbread houses with a 13 year old boy, interesting things happen.

XO Barbara

Linking to : The Nesting Place's 2011 Christmas Tour of Homes
Michaela Noelle Designs Christmas Cheer Link-up Party
The Inspired Room's Holiday House Tours

Handmade Holidays : A Christmas Pillow How-To

2011-12-14T01:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I showed you a little holiday addition to my sofa.

You see all the other pillows were thrilled when this

was added to the mix.

But now they are even more overJOYed with the newest addition.

Want to whip up a Christmas pillow for yourself? It is really quite easy.

You need two squares of fabric cut 1" larger than finished size

{my pillow was 18" X 18", so I cut a "19 X 19" square}

T-shirt ransfer paper

Template

For the Silent Night pillow I used a template from the Dear Lillie blog.

BUT...

Creating a template is quite easy.

The goal is to have a reversed template.

Create your word or letters in Word in desired font. I used Academy Engraving.

Enlarge to desired size, I sized my font to 400.

The whole word didn't fit on one page, the "Y" was on a second page, but I am just showing you one page for the how-to.

Save file as PDF.

Re-open the file so you can save it as a JPEG file. {This is the only way to reverse your image}

In JPEG format, open "Tools" and scroll down to "Flip Horizontal".

Ta-da!

Print onto paper, to make sure it is the desired size. If satisfied, then print onto transfer paper.

Cut out letters.

Iron any creases and wrinkles out of your fabric.

Place the letters printed side down onto your fabric, being careful to center on the square.

Iron on highest setting and run the iron over the letters in a circular motion for about 30 seconds on each letter.

{Don't overdo as you can burn the transfer paper and your fabric}

How do I know this? Read this post.

Let cool and slowly peel off backing. If you find printed bits are coming off, lay back down and run over with a hot iron again.

Don't look too closely, the letter "J" is askew a bit. Oops.

If you want a copy of my template, feel free to leave me your email in your comment and I can email you one!

Then sew up the pillow using my invisible zipper tutorial.

Yesterday I was also busy taking photos of my home all dolled up for the holidays. Hoping to have the photos up tomorrow!

Should of been on the ball and taken photos on Monday when it was bright and sunny, now the weather is blah and so hard to take photos, especially since my tripod broke :(

What was fun was that I practiced with our 50mm lens {after reading this article} and that takes fabulous photos, but it is harder than Matthew Mead makes it out to be. Could of used a tripod not a rickety ladder.

Are you all decorated up for the holidays?

XO Barbara

Handmade Holidays : A Christmas Pillow

2011-12-13T01:00:00.000-08:00

Last week I whipped up this pillow to give a bit holiday dash to my living room.

With a template from here, the lovely Dear Lillie blog, some leftover fabric from here and t-shirt transfer paper, holiday goodness now resides on my sofa.

Yesterday I made another using a template I created, will share the step-by-step tomorrow.

XO Barbara

So Canadian eh? : Tanya from Dans Le Townhouse

2011-12-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

Another fabulous guest is visiting this week with such an amazing sense of style. Her aesthetic is crisp, modern and simple which she pulls off fabulously in her townhome!

Bienvenue Tanya

from

Dans Le Townhouse

She is

I love Tanya's home which is so fresh and unique - no shabby chic in this home, or should I say townhome!

On her blog, she shares as she felts, DIYs, paints, and welds her way to a fabulous home, along with her amazing vintage finds, artwork and her travels.

Her most recent design adventure was this desk!

I wish I had a family member who could weld for me! Oh, the possibilities!

Love everything about the desk area. The lamps, the chair {gasp!} and those lamps!

You can read about the creation of the desk here.

You wouldn't know it from looking at the photo, but she did an artful Ikea hack, featured on Design Sponge.

Can you guess what the canvases are?

A bed frame she designed, and the fabulous grandpa welded!

Her living room with her Kijiji sofa find, along with vintage side tables, lamp and DIY pillows!

LOVE!

Her kitchen, which due to renovations elsewhere in the house has not had much done to it, but Tanya has managed to still create a fabulous space!

Oh that table! Her vintage teak table and chairs which she upholstered in a gorgeous houndstooth fabric, along with a photo from her trip to Portugal makes a fabulous vignette.

Another vintage table in her dining room {where does is she finding all this amazing stuff?}

and artwork by the other talented grandfather!

Her framed vintage Bakelite brooches { a little DIY inspired by yours truly}

And the fabulous felted billy buttons featured on Design Sponge!

Tell us a bit about yourself, your background, your education, has design always been something you are drawn to?

When I was a child, I used to steal my mom’s design magazines and “re-do” my room, which consisted of weird projects like jury-rigging a “sofa” from a row of chairs, a blanket and some duct tape. My husband finds it ceaselessly amusing that I also charged my parents an admission to see my updates. Although I am a PhD candidate in women’s studies now (my background is in philosophy), my blog ensures I get to feed my creative side as well. Ironically, I made more money as a petulant child “designer” than I do as a blogger (total blog wages: $0).

What made you decide to start blogging?

I was introduced to design blogs through magazines a few years ago and then I felt like Alice falling down the rabbit hole. I saw fabulous conversations developing about DIY projects, design dilemmas and life outside the glossy world of magazines. In 2010 I finally decided I wanted to be a part of these conversations and started Dans le Townhouse (which is my Bugs Bunny French for “In the Townhouse”—French-speaking Canadians, please don’t hate me).

What have you enjoyed about blogging and what has surprised you along the way?

I really, really enjoy connecting with other bloggers and readers. A reader comment or new blog follower can make my day! What has surprised me is just how much work blogging is! Perhaps this is why I am doubly surprised by how many fabulous blogs are out there. I feel like I can discover a new blog every hour. I think about the collective time we are all devoting to blogging and I am amazed.

Where do you go for inspiration for your blog?

I’m inspired by other blogs, shelter magazines, art galleries, local stores, and design books but sometimes (only sometimes) my ideas materialize from thin air. I wish that happened more often.

What are your hopes and dreams for your future?

I’d like to finish my PhD. It seems impossible right now, so it is hard to envision a life past that goal. I’d love a position teaching at a Canadian university, but I also want to keep writing about design and DIY projects. Freelance writing for some of my favorite magazines would be a dream. I feel privileged because the other areas of my life (my family, my marriage, my home) are already fabulous. I just hope I am lucky enough to continue to enjoy my life.

How would you describe your design style?

I’m drawn to bright, modern spaces with elements of vintage flair. I am deeply in love with gallery-white walls punctuated by pops of colour and an abundance of artwork. I also think handmade or DIY’d pieces add personality and are key to my personal style as well.

Tell us one thing about you that would surprise us!

I have never had a manicure, pedicure or even set foot in a spa. The idea gives me the heebie-jeebies, but it is probably less weird if I just say I’m so into DIY I prefer to do my own nails (which I do!)

Are you a coffee or tea kind of gal?

Both! I drink tea at home but coffee if I am grabbing a drink while I am out and about (although I don’t buy coffee often, to save my pennies for home décor).

If you were given the opportunity to meet anyone or do anything, what would it be and why?

I would like to visit Egypt—I even have a relative who lives there. But with the political turmoil, no one will accompany me.

What do you like to do in your free time?

What is this “free time” you mention? My blog devours much of my free time, but I happily and willingly devote many hours to working on and around the townhouse with my hubby. Reading, travelling, painting and swimming are also activities that make me smile.

I think Canadians have proven themselves to be amazing designers, artists, and writers. I don’t think I can pinpoint a distinct “Canadian” style because Canadians are diverse, contributing many different flavours. I do think, though, that we could be more proud of our abilities and be more supportive of the talent found in our country. I’m working on increasingly supporting Canadians.

Tanya, I had NO idea that you were working on your PhD! That is why I love doing these interviews because I find out more about the blogger behind the blog! Love learning more about you! And love your home - you are truly gifted.

XO Barbara

Tanya, don't give up

Tommy Does it Again...

2011-12-09T01:00:00.000-08:00

While enjoying my new House and Home app, I saw this online segment.

Tommy does it again.....

He designs a drool worthy kitchen.

I don't really need to explain, the space just drips of gorgeousness.

{Click on photo to view video}

What could be more perfect, Tommy designing your kitchen AND black, white, red with touches of gold all in one space.

Am going to file this one away along with these kitchens.

Hope you enjoyed that bit of juicy inspiration to bring on the weekend!

XO Barbara

Sanity Saver App

2011-12-08T01:00:00.000-08:00

Recently I got an iPhone.

Nancy said it would change my life. She was right.

To have all the world at your fingertips no matter where you are {except for inside Costco - no reception there} is life changing.

What is even more life changing, more like a sanity saver is the new Canadian House and Home app for smart phones!

Hello??

I can now watch all the House and Home online episodes while waiting for children at music lessons, hanging out at the hockey rink, waiting for soccer practice to end, etc.

key word : waiting

That is what I do in the evenings, Drive my kids everywhere and wait.

While waiting at {insert choice activity} I saw a tweet about the House and Home app for iPhone. Intrigued I downloaded it. Did I mention it was free?

Browsing through I came across photo galleries.

Perfect entertainment for this decor addict.

But....

Cue angels singing "Hallelujah".

They also have online TV episodes.

Died.And.Gone.To.Heaven.

So while I wait, I can watch the latest home tours.

Tomorrow I share my most recent favourite!

Get yours here for free!

XO Barbara

To Market, To Market...

2011-12-07T08:50:00.000-08:00

This past weekend I attended the Fieldstone Vintage Christmas Market. Run by the fabulous blogging/vintage scavenger dynamo duo, Lily and Rachel from Birch and Bird.

If you recall, I was one of the chosen ones to be a judge for their summer market! Since I missed that market, I could not miss this one!

Although smaller in scale, there was no shortage of pretty!

The best part was bumping into other bloggers and friends there! Had a chance to chat with Rosa, Janis, Colleen, and Victoria.

{Colleen's booth!}

Colleen with all her goodies!

You can read my interview with her here.

Loved this twist on for an Advent Calendar by Rachel and Lily!

Rachel and Lily always have a fabulous collection of vintage gas sign letters and numbers. I couldn't help myself but to buy three! I already have two from their shop. My only dilemma is how to hang up the Plexiglas signs on the wall.

Any ideas out there?

And as usual Tracey from RaggyGirlVintage's booth did not disappoint!

Have you been to any good Christmas markets?

XO Barbara

Dear Santa....

2011-12-05T01:00:00.000-08:00

As a decor aficionado {that's what Margot Austin called me, and I am sticking with it!} a fabulous gift to find under the tree would be a fantabulous decor book!

Yesterday while waiting for my son, I hung out at Chapters and sat on the floor of the decor book section and just poured over books.

Am I the only one who sits on the floor of the bookstore?

Here are a few lovelies that I would want under the tree.

Santa are you listening?

A book full of photos of spaces with black and white palettes!!

YES please!

WANT.THIS.

Timeless classic.

Couldn't resist this book, the edges of the pages are an iridescent orange!

And a few other lovelies....

This isn't decor book but would be a perfect coffee table book.

And this one would also be so fun to have.

Could stand to brush up on my manners.

{All images from Amazon Canada}

What books would you like under your tree?

XO Barbara

So Canadian eh? : Colleen Sawatsky

2011-12-04T08:14:00.000-08:00

My guest this week has some serious talent, yet she is so humble and modest, it was like pulling teeth to agree her to be interviewed. She felt she was not up to the calibre of my past guests. When you see her photos you will shake your head at that! Not only is she such a vibrant person she is stunning and so down to earth, you can't help but feel drawn to her.

Please welcome the beautiful...

Colleen Sawatsky from The Vintage Home

She is ...

Colleen is a purveyor of all things vintage. I have had the pleasure of being in her home for a blogger brunch this past summer, her home knocked my socks off! Everywhere you looked it was perfectly styled and there was something so pretty to look at.

No surprise that Colleen is a stylist as well! Many items from her home and collections are used by local stylists for magazine shoots.

As a long time decor magazine addict you start to recognize spaces and know who designed them. Colleen's spaces have always stood out with her unique vintage style, so when I first met her, I felt I was meeting design royalty!

Her portfolio speaks for itself, her love of beautiful things and creating beautiful vignettes is so evident.

Colleen's Home:

Sharalee Prang Photography

Sharalee Prang Photography

A Beach Cottage, her "stuff" used as props, styled by Heather Cameron.

Janis Nicolay Photography
Styled by Heather Cameron

Janis Nicolay Photography

Styled by Heather Cameron

Janis Nicolay Photography
Styled by Heather Cameron

Colleen's pantry - yes, her pantry full of goodies!

Colleen Sawatsky

A shoot she styled for BC Bride.

Tell us a bit about your background? Your education? Has design always beenin your blood?

Our home growing up was a way my parents used their creative gifts and antiques played a part in that. In my 30's I went to Interior Design School (BCIT). Bob & I both had antiques when we married and they blended together well. Then we got the collecting bug, and some of it had to go! That is how we began, friends liked our look and it grew from there. I have clients referred from friends, and businesses & designers that buy our pieces. We also have a booth @ Village Antiques Mall in Fort Langley.

How would you describe your design style?

Eclectic eclectic & eclectic! Sorry, but we love most everything but are drawn to the mix! Our home is mostly traditional, but our look that we sell is very French/Shabby!

We love mid century modern art deco and Hollywood Glam, but sadly those pieces can be hard to get and pricey.

Where do you find inspiration for your designs?

I really enjoy magazines in print or online! Blogs are amazing sources of inspiration! As much as I love architecture/decor tension I also find some homes are bossy, you just have to give it what it wants sometimes!

Other inspiration can come from a piece of furniture you or your client loves, it can be a jumping off point & that is always a great start! I really try to see how much of the clients inventory we can use, reuse or redo. I am crazy for dressers used as hall pieces, beside a fireplace, kitchen islands, a bathroom vanity, or bedside tables! Move it about, you'll be surprised

What tips do you have for aspiring designers in getting their design work published or to hone their skills?

Hone your skills...well sometimes you have to work for family & friends for free, or start @ a big or small firm or store. Stick with it! Getting your work published... well I say, "Know your audience". The published work I am drawn to is called "Life Style" stories! We have been in Style At Home, Canadian House and Home, and Country Living and O Magazine. We still have a story to be published.

I've had the privilege of working with Heather Cameron, I read her article for Victoria Magazine, and went to her Organic farm to introduce myself. I followed her print career. Years later I had some projects in mind and blessedly for me Heather liked them, it all worked from there. Heather did the work with the magazines so I can't give myself credit there. Janis Nicolay was the photographer for all the stories.... amazing work!

If you want to be published jut submit some of your work to a magazine and see where it goes! Magazines have departments that highlight products, or a "store watch" that gives a shout out to businesses.

I do know you should be careful how much you put out online yourself, if you are interested in publishing some of your work don't put it on your blog!

You are known in our parts as the queen of fabulous vintage finds, what makes you decide to grab something to re-vamp or walk away?

Well to be honest my husband is my "picker". Yes I do buy some stuff but Bob does most of the buying he has a great eye and great style! He will phone me sometimes if he is in doubt about whether I think it will sell or maybe discuss the price. we have clients that could be looking for a certain piece and I am the one that has the pulse on that!

We...woops, he, spends a lot of time looking at garage sales thrift stores flea markets auctions & referrals. It is very time consuming, but its his "golf", I just have to sell everything! People wonder why they don't find the stuff...and its all about time, you have to be out there to find the treasures! And what comes home with us or what doesn't usually has to be boiled down to cost! If we can't sell it for a profit we don't buy it! Some pieces we can't pass up for reasons only your heart can tell and they usually stay in our home, that is till someone begs to buy it (and sometimes that takes years for us to part with it!)

What is one design faux pas that you wish could be banished?

Oh boy...hmmmmm.well I have to say not trying! (Probably not considered a faux pas) There are so many resources out there for anyone to tap into. Either hire someone, it’s cheaper than a mistake, or try to educate yourself. I know budget is a concern for most of us but we all need to feel warmth & joy at home, how we decorate can help, and we can do it well at any price point

You have such an eye for details and styling, what quick and easy tips do you have that anyone can do to give their home a bit of chutzpah?

Quick & easy: Paint & proportion. Not so quick...you really need to have an anchor or focal point, sofa or bed, to start the process. Once you have determined your priorities the small stuff falls into place. Have a paper file or e-file of inspiration, this is so helpful. I am the first to admit I have a roving eye, our home is always in flux, if that’s not for you pick your targets and stay on course.

As a mother to 3 children, how do you balance your family life and your work?

Well our eldest daughter and her husband live very close by. Our youngest daughter is a university student and lives at home, we make it a priority to spend time together. I am blessed to have a job where I can set a lot of my hours to work around family. When your kids are younger the time demands are different. I have a huge respect for the families that do it well.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Free time is an oxymoron in a home based business, free time for my husband and I may include looking for treasures! We love to entertain, volunteer, and I enjoy helping our daughter with her horse. I enjoy reading, spending time with friends and family.

What goals or aspirations do you have for your design business and/or your blog?

Just to keep selling wonderful furniture. I love it when someone "gets" the patina of an aged piece, or sees the details revealed with a bit of paint. I know "vintage" is not for everyone, in this regard we were "green" before it was a buzzword!

As for my blog, well everyone knows that a good one takes a lot of time, so I hope to put more into mine. Blogs are an endless supply of creativity and talent, I am constantly reminded of the support and generosity of fellow bloggers, I wish to do better at all of these!

If you could meet anyone or do anything who or what would it be?

Do anything...hmmmm.... maybe rest! Seriously, go on holidays with my family more often. The five of us spent 5 days alone over the summer and it was pure joy to have those days together.

There is so much talent in this country! Its been said before but worth repeating, we aren't outspoken in promoting ourselves. There is now a well-deserved shift in attitude about showing what we are capable of! Our amazing designers and accessibility to wonderful homegrown products, and the ability to get the ideas and info out there has changed the landscape of design in the last 20 years. I believe that the unique sense of style we Canadians have, at times, is determined by cultural and regional input. What is unique in us is the willingness to take chances and to have fun! Decorate with what you love, honor you’re home by living the best you can in it. I would rather go for better than bigger.We embrace welcoming warmth and hip design!

Wow Barb, thanks for the opportunity, I am so honored to be on the roster of your "so Canadian, eh".

Barb you have, since the time I met you, showed organization great energy, enthusiasm, creativity caring and great spirit. I truly mean it when I say the generosity of fellow designers and bloggers is amazing.

I was born before TV and have witnessed the generations of creativity grow stronger with each decade. Technology does not replace good old get down there and do it, yet it enhances our choices & educates us.

Good design still needs the human heart & spirit to create a memorable idea, and a welcoming home.

Colleen.

Well thank-you Colleen.
It was such an honour to have finally met you after admiring your work for a few years!
You are such a warm and exuberant woman with such a zest for life and for seeing beauty in everything.
Thanks-you for making me feel so special every time we meet.
Hugs.

XO Barbara

Thanks

2011-12-02T01:00:00.000-08:00

A while back I wrote a thank-you to a wonderfully generous blogging friend.

But she isn't the only one who has gone out of her way!

In the spring, I was contacted by a new blogger who was overwhelmed by the world of blogging, I simply gave her a few tips and tried to encourage her.

She is a blogger with such amazing creativity and a big heart.

If you have not gone to her blog, The Crafty Bee, well, your loss.

To show her appreciation she has so kindly sent me lovely gifts, which were such a surprise {ok, one was a giveaway win}. But still, I want her to know how deeply touched I am by her generosity!

One of those gifts hangs in my son's room. I love how it looks there!

{If anyone has photo tips - how do you get the wall colour to show true? His wall colours are a blue-grey, yet they show up pink-grey in photos? Argh}

So thank-you dear Beatrice. You are one of a kind!

XO Barbara

Mmmm...

2011-12-01T01:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I baked a batch of my family's traditional Czech Christmas cookies for the Style at Home Cookie Swap Contest I was invited to enter!

What made it even more enjoyable, along with the sun streaming through the windows, was listening to him...

singing Christmas carols.

Sigh...

Want to know what I made?

Here is the recipe if you feel like making some for yourself.

Christmas just isn't Christmas without these cookies. My mom has made them since I can remember so now I make them too.

And the dough is equally divine.

Yum.

What are your must-have cookies at Christmas?

XO Barbara