One of the joys of the Christmas holidays is the opportunity for reflection on the past year.

We have all heard the term “Smart Home” but what does that really mean?  Well, the term refers to homes where the entertainment systems, security system, window coverings, lighting and climate control are all capable of communicating with one another and are remotely controlled by the homeowners’ app on their tablet/laptop, phone, or an integrated system. 

If the stores have hung their ‘Happy Holiday’ signs, then winter is just around the corner!... And we all know that a Niagara Region winter usually entails snow, ice and frigid temperatures…that is if the year brings a true Canadian winter.  The Farmer’s Almanac seems to suggest that it just might!

Small rooms can be challenging to arrange and decorate in order to make the most out of the space. However, depending on the remaining layout of your home, a small room does not necessarily have to remain that way. Some homeowners feel limited with their spaces because they see the existing layout and walls as a permanent restriction. Not so! It is often possible to resolve small room dilemmas by removing walls, redesigning access doors and borrowing or reclaiming space from an adjacent closet or hallway, thus combining rooms to create a brand new space. It is even possible to combine smaller rooms on one floor and then recreate the incorporated space in a different location such as a basement or attached garage.

By simple definition the “outbuilding” is a building on the same property but separate from the house—for example a shed, barn, pool house, carriage/guest house, gazebo, or garage, etc. 

Cathedral, vaulted or flat ceilings – It is not just a change in angle?

Every year there are new trends in building and decorating and 2015 is no exception. Some of the trends are simply a continuation or stepping stone from prior years. Much like in the last few years, it appears that there remains a strong desire to transform the compartmentalized house into a family-friendly, entertainment-ready, open concept home. Improving flow and updating/adding new efficient windows and French doors allows for more natural light and a spacious feel… even in the most modest size dwelling. In fact, dream homes are no longer about size…the luxury is simply in the details.

It’s that time of year again… when the changing of leaves means fall is upon us and that means there are a few more chores to do. 

When planning a kitchen remodel or new kitchen most homeowners know exactly how they want their kitchen to look. They have clear ideas of what cabinets and countertops are preferred, how pots and pans will be stored, where cutlery and utensils should be placed for easy access, and how cookie sheets and the pantry cupboard should be organized. Appliances have been very carefully researched and placement is planned precisely. All of which is a very exciting part of the design. 

If you already have an exposed brick or stone wall in your home, you may feel like you have already won the lottery…because without added expense or efforts on your part your home probably has the organic charm, character and/or elegance that you cherish—All you have to do is accessorize properly.