C21 Life Hacks - interior design

Spruce Up Your Deck!

Here in the Prairies, we know summer is fleeting. With less than six months of warm weather, we take full advantage of the heat! So, it's no surprise that we want our living space to extend outdoors during this time. A few modifications to your backyard deck will improve its aesthetic and functionality, as well as increasing your comfort.

1) Install a Pergola

A Pergola turns an exposed deck into an inviting room, providing partial shade and comforting structure. The angled slats shade most of the area during peak sunshine hours, all while still remaining open.

2) Re-stain

A gorgeous outdoor space starts with great wood. Sand and power wash the surface, then stain or paint with the colour of your choice. Not only will it…

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How To Create A Hobby Space In Your Home - Big Or Small!

Hobbies are a great way to relax, hone your skills, and unwind after a long day. Having a dedicated space in your home for your hobby can keep supplies organized and give you a place to enjoy your favourite pastime. Whether it’s a whole room, or just a corner, here’s how you can carve out some space for your hobbies:

1) Double Check The Space You Already Have

Do you use each room in your home every day? Take a moment to consider whether a storage room can be cleared out if it’s full of junk, or if a corner is being occupied by a side table that could be a small desk instead. Maybe consider changing up one of the larger rooms if it’s not used often – do you often use your dining room, or eat in the kitchen?

2) Organize Your Tools…

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Future Proof Your Bathroom Reno

When it comes to the home, most people want to stay in it for as long as possible. Trouble arises when their home doesn't age as well as they do. Take the bathroom, for example. A study released by the CDC in 2020 showed that falls are the leading cause of injury in adults over the age of 65, with 3 million ER visits per year. 79% of those falls take place in the bathroom. Despite these numbers, many homeowners resist changes that would make the room safer for fear that it would look too clinical or remind them of a hospital. Even those selling their home resist these kinds of changes for fear of affecting their ROI. 

But now, that's changing. The things designed to make the bathroom safer, like large showers, higher toilets, grab bars, improved…

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5 Design Trends For 2022

Our homes have a direct influence on us, not only on our moods, but our mental and physical well-being. Is it any wonder that in our third year of a pandemic that interior design trends are largely focused on making us feel at ease, instead of boasting style? Here are five major trends happening in interior design that lay out the look for 2022:

1) Curved Furniture

Curved or sculpted forms have a softer, natural shape. In contrast to the sharp and angular pieces seen in previous years, curved furniture evokes cognitive ease. The natural shape/curve is familiar to the eye, and is therefore associated with safety and comfort. You can plan on seeing more curved furniture and accent pieces as the year unfolds!

2) Natural Surfaces

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Stylish Solutions For Awkward Home Spaces

Every home can come with some awkward spaces – small nooks, tight corners, shallow closets - but that doesn’t mean they can't be functional. We are sharing our top solutions to transform your “dead zones” into your new favourite spot!

1) Bay Windows

Bay windows are a beautiful addition to any room, but this bonus space often goes unused because of its awkward shape. Instead of installing costly-customized pieces, try adding a small desk or couch. The pop-out area creates the perfect space for a home office or reading nook!

2) Above Kitchen Cabinets

No one can have enough kitchen storage, so why not use the unclaimed space above the cabinets? Show off your stylish dishware, plants, or less-attractive pieces in decorative…

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Creating Your Backyard Oasis

Spending summer at home? Or, looking to revamp the backyard for a better home sale? In both cases, you've come to the right place! Creating the perfect outdoor space doesn't have to cost you tons of money, nor does it have to be a large space. Here are some tips for you on creating your perfect backyard oasis:

Start With A Focal Point

Every yard, no matter its size, needs a focal point. A focal point directs attention and interest to one area or one spot. This is used in our indoor spaces all the time. For example, in our kitchens, the focal point is where we prepare our food - the stove, the fridge and the countertops. In our living rooms, the focal point is usually the T.V. All of the design will point, lead or be otherwise neutral to…

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The Open Concept Floor Plan: Pros Vs. Cons

Open concept floor plans make up the larger part of new residential house builds, and have been since the early to mid 1990s. This floor plan is the go-to design for home renovation projects in older homes that want to maximize space and appeal to new buyers. It allows for individuals and individual activities to co-exist with others; families can enjoy doing their own thing(s) in one area, while other family members could be doing a completely different activity in another area, but still be able to communicate effectively. In addition, the blending of a kitchen, living and dining room makes for a great party space - perfect for those who entertain as a part of their lifestyle. However, this floor plan isn't ideal for every person...and that's okay!…

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