May 19, 2019

Walls to write about

Dear Debbie;

We would like to put a writable surface on one of the walls in our child’s bedroom. We’ve heard about a laminate that works. Would that be better than the chalkboard paint? Thanks for your help.
— Miranda

Dear Miranda;

Children do love to be able to write on walls and if they understand that they can only write on the designated space that has a special writing surface it’s a fun way to go.

May 12, 2019

The future is here

There is nothing quite like the wild experience of a visit to Salone del Mobile in Milan.  If you relish in the latest in modern design, or decorating is your thing, or your home is the center of your life, then a trip to the Mecca of all things visually delicious is a bucket-list must. But beware — this trade show is not for the faint of heart. 

May 5, 2019

A Brush With Metal

Dear Debbie;

My partner and I like the look of metal and see that it is very popular lately. What about painting it on walls? Would it be too heavy? We’ve seen metallic wallpapers but would prefer to paint. What would you suggest? Thanks.
— Bernard

Dear Bernard;

This sounds like a truly creative project.

April 28, 2019

Inspired by the best

Decorating your home is a personal journey. For some people, the idea of choosing a paint colour or a piece of furniture, a bedspread pattern or a floor covering does not come easily. In fact, it can be a painful, even frightening, challenge.  But our home environment is so important to how we feel, how we relax, how we work,

April 21, 2019

Light fantastic

Dear Debbie;

My cousin has a very modern minimalist apartment, too sparse for me, but I really like her new lights – she says they are Edison style. I am more of a traditional decorator and I would like to update my chandelier in the dining room. Will a modern lighting choice clash with my floral wallpaper and carved wood buffet?

April 14, 2019

Salvaging history

More than ever, today’s consumers are conscious of the need to recycle. We think about the consequences of haphazardly tossing items large and small into the garbage. If we no longer find it useful, perhaps someone else will. Building materials such as wood and stone are precious natural resources that can and should outlast one lifetime. In their thought-provoking book,

April 7, 2019

Country vibes

Dear Debbie;

We are refinishing some furniture for our large, wrap-around porch. There are two tables, one for each end and wood and wicker chairs we found at a flea market to go with them. I want a real country vibe. Thanks for your fun ideas.
— Mackenzie

Dear Mackenzie;

How wonderful to be thinking about sitting outside again.

March 31, 2019

Brian Gluckstein takes us home

For more than 20 years Brian Gluckstein has entertained, enlightened and delighted us all with his personal take on interior design. Although most of us will never live in the mansions, chalets and sprawling country homes that Gluckstein has designed and decorated, his appeal is universal; his vast knowledge of decorative elements and fresh ideas can be transformed in part to any space that you love.

March 24, 2019

Electric visions

Dear Debbie;

We have decided to put on an addition to our bungalow so that we can have a separate area for when grandparents come to visit. I envision a bed/sitting room and a fully accessible bathroom. I hear that electric fireplaces don’t need a chimney but will heat. Any suggestions?
— Lou

Dear Lou;

March 17, 2019

Invent your own backsplash

If originality can be a trend, it’s happening now. More than ever our homes are taking on the personalities of those who live there. Cookie-cutter designs, matching furniture suites, bland colour palettes are a thing of the past. The kitchen, long touted as the heart of the home, continues to lead the pack when it comes to change, big change.