A Fabulous Rast Hack

Hello and good morning.

Last night was so exciting and fabulous. I will tell you all about it next week!

On another note, my "baby" girl turned 17 yesterday. She isn't much of a baby anymore, she graduates this year and at 6 feet tall she is so stunningly beautiful. 

We have also starting the process of university selection and scholarship applications, so daunting and exciting at the same time!

But.....

today I bring you an Ikea Rast hack that a reader emailed to me. 

Jacob, who should have a blog, sent me these photos of a Rast hack he made inspired by Miss Mustard Seed's Union Jack dresser!

This is his version! You would never know that they started out as a plain Rast dresser!

Thanks for sharing Jacob!

XO Barbara

If you have a Rast hack that you want featured here, I would LOVE to write a post about it. There is nothing like a good Rast hack!

It's a Party!

I am so excited that this day has finally arrived!

{source}

 I am attending the IDS West Opening Gala tonight as a VIP guest! Not only do I get to attend tonight's party, I have also been invited as a VIP guest for Jenn-Air .

{Maybe they REALLY want to give me a stove? - a girl can only dream..}

But the icing on the delicious cake is that after many months of organizing with my fabulous and fantastic friends, Karla from Kerrisdale Design, Nancy from Marcus Design and Victoria from Edin's House, our blogger cocktail soiree, Blend 2011, is happening this Saturday night at The Loden Hotel sponsored by Ikea Canada. I bravely called up Ikea and was thrilled when they jumped on board and offered to foot the bill.

YAY!

Ikea Canada is not only attending but are bringing the fabulous Suzanne Dimma, Editor-in-Chief of Canadian House and Home, Mark Challen, VP of Comminications for House and Home,  Kelly Deck from Kelly Deck Designs, Andrea Mills {former H & H staffer and now a design specialist for Ikea Canada} and Jen Knight, our local Ikea PR person!

Our evening will be full of food, drinks, friends, prizes, talking, talking and more talking! Then the next morning brunch with various bloggers who are staying downtown! 

You can read about our plans here!!

So you will have to excuse me as I need time to plan my outfits, paint my nails, fluff the hair and just get myself all dolled up for a few nights on the town!

This girl is going to paint the town!

XO Barbara

The Newest Addition

On Thursday afternoon we had a friendly knock at the door. Much to my surprise my latest online purchase had arrived on my doorstep.

Welcome to my newest addition. 

Doesn't it look pretty on my coffee table?

Not only is she pretty but full of inspirational photographs and a fabulous DIY section!

I had to read through it quickly as the next morning I left for Portland to chaperone my daughters' cross country team's trip to race in the Nike Pre-Nationals {which they helped win plaques for their school!}

Anyone else buy the  Design*Sponge book?

XO Barbara

Theme Inspiration: 15 Hallway decorating ideas!

Hallway is often the first place in your home that a visitor would see. Its a prominent part of your home and deserves some special focus too. This post has some unique ideas to decorate the entryway or hallway for an ideal first impression.

Designing and decorating hallway can be a challenge, specially because of its narrow area. However, good lighting, furnishing, wall art and accent pieces can make hallway a beautiful part of your home. Take time to look at these ideas and inspiration and brighten up this space.

 

Designing hallway makes a great first impression! It gets a lot of use and deserves careful attention and planning. Having a cheerful, well decorated entryway will make walking into your home a pleasure and enhance the effect of your home interiors. Treat this area as special and put extra effort and creativity in decorating it!!

So Canadian, eh? : The Crafty Bee

My fabulously talented Canadian this week is relatively new to blogging but who I consider to be a DIY diva, she puts me to shame!

Welcome

Beatrice from The Crafty Bee!

She is...

Beatrice is such a genuinely sweet person, who I have gotten to know over these past few months while  exchanging emails. She contacted me a while back, I have tried to encourage to keep at her blog and has become a wonderful blogging friend.

If you haven't visited her blog, you don't know what you are missing. She is always creating something and is creating a beautiful home for her young family.

Here are some of her fabulous projects!

What is not to love about this space?

Her Colette bed knock off.

Canvas art inspired by spring.

Her fabulous Rast hack!

 A mirror made with stock mirror from the local hardware store.

LOVE!

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

My passion for design and interior decor, started when I was in my tweens. My mother had many subscriptions to house decorating magazines and I was addicted. As soon as the magazines would arrive, I would check out paint colors and start telling my mother about how I would redecorate my room. If she would have left it up to me, I probably would have repainted my room every other week. My parents gave me the freedom to decorate my room and that is where I stenciled my walls for the first time. On the other hand, I have a BA and a B. Ed., where my other passions lie, with children and teaching.

How would you describe your design style?

I don't have a particular style.  Probably just a mix of many styles that I pull together to suit me.  Modern, simple lines, subtle color with colorful accents.

How long have you had your blog? What made you decide to start writing a blog and what have you enjoyed the most about blogging?

I started the blog almost 6 months ago and time has really flown by. I have many passions and two of them are making things and writing. Over time, I worked on many projects, just ideas that I had that I finally had the freedom to try out.  Eventually, I decided to start a blog to share some of my ideas with people. The thing I enjoyed the most about blogging is meeting interesting, wonderful and very creative people out there. I feel that blogging connects people and brings people from different corners of the world in one place, through the passion for interior design.  I am amazed and proud when I see that someone from a far-away country has checked out my little blog.

What are your hopes and dreams for your blog? Your future? Is something design related in that future?

At first I wasn't sure where I wanted my blog to go.  I just felt it would be a fun past time for the meanwhile.  Now that I have some confidence in writing and doing bigger projects, I feel that I have something to share. My hopes and dreams for my blog are to create a place where people would like to spend some time, while sipping on their morning coffee. I don't know what the future has in store, but I am open to whatever comes my way.

I consider you such a DIY diva, where do you find your inspiration for all the creative projects you do!

 First of all, thank you so much for that compliment. I don't consider myself a DIY diva, but I really do love to create different things. There is a real sense of accomplishment that I feel when I finish something that is elegant yet practical. I find inspiration in different places, like the hardware store, store displays, libraries, bookstores and of course, blogs and magazines.

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

Hmmm, good question. I think I would like to travel and see more of Italy. It is my favorite place in the world and I love the architecture and design. Just imagine how much inspiration I could get there! I think one has lots to see and learn in Europe and that would be my dream.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love reading and there is a pile that I haven't quite got to. Besides that, I have been spending some time with a new friend, the paintbrush.

How do you manage to balance your family time and blogging, or is that something you have yet to master?

Definitely, still trying to master that. It is a juggling act, but my little munchkin comes first and everything else after. I just have to remind myself to make smarter decisions and use my time wisely. So, I try to use any free minute I have to write a post, take a picture, check a blog.

What are your views on the role of Canadian design? 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 think Canada is headed towards the top places in design in the world. More and more Canadian designers are being highlighted on the international design scene and that is really great to see. Canadians want their homes to be inviting, livable, comfortable and yet stylish at the same time. Sarah Richardson is doing exactly that with her Sarah 101 series and that is exactly what design should be all about.

A huge thank you to Barbara for having me on the Canadian, eh series.

Thanks Beatrice for participating. I am so thrilled you contacted me those many months ago.

You have a lot of talent, drive and creativity that shines on your blog!

I see success in your future!

Hugs.

XO Barbara

Theme Design: Green home decor ideas and inspration!

Its the first day of Autumn!! Summer is over, but I am not quite over it yet :-)

In this post are some gorgeous home decor ideas in green. Its fun, chic and full of punch! The many shades of green are perfect for every corner of your home. Use it in combination for white or neutral shade for best result.

Living room, kitchen, patio/porch and bath designs in green color scheme or as an accent color. Get Inspired!!

Teen bedroom designs: Modern Space saving ideas- II

Designing teen bedroom can be a fun challenge. There are a lot of factors to consider when designing and decorating one. The use of space, color mix and the furniture all of them should provide for space for all essential. It should have a dedicated study area, ample wardrobe, and some open space too. The focus should be on a comfortable space with good lighting and uncluttered to keep the mood happy and creative.

Each of the design here have modern minimalist decor and are space efficient. The look is cool and fun with the advantage of an uncluttered pleasant living space. Perfect for apartments and smaller rooms, these design are aesthetically beautiful, and space conserving at the same time.

You would also love these ideas: Modern teen bedroom space saving ideas I

 Perfect for siblings or twins, this bedroom is space efficient and very pretty. The pastel color combination brigs relief to eyes and the mix of pattern keeps it light and fun. There is optimum space utilization.

The neat idea of having a pull out bed under the corner elevated study area is so innovative! Once the bed is push in,  free space increases for more living/playing area. A perfect solution for city apartment!

The spacious look and bright red is so invigorating! Each part of a kid's day has been taken into account and there are designated space for unwinding, studying and sleep. Simple and stylish!

Green is often associated with peace and serenity. This lovely combination of white, green and light wood. The emphasis is again on keeping it functional with maximum space conservation. Clean lines and simple furniture add to the decluttered look.

This teen bedroom idea is special in the way it reflects light to make the space look bigger and crisp. The floor finish has mirror like reflection and bounces the natural light for maximum effect.

The beautiful punch of colors will appeal to teenagers. Blue and orange makes this teen room lively and bright. Two beds in a small room and yet a clean crisp result.

Sheer ingenuity! This bedroom is really tiny. and yet the space is used to maximum potential. I can imagine it a high rise in Tokyo/LA, where space is really expensive! High on functional quotient with aesthetically viable looks.

Notice how the curved closet is so streamlined and almost acts like a reflector for the light from the window. A fantastic corner bedroom idea. Its designed for two kids, or a sleepover. Shelves on the wall leaves the floor uncluttered.

Open bedroom plan idea for teenager. There is a lot of enclosed space for storage and the bed is the focal point. The pastel green is a cool shade and adds to the entire aesthetics.

A Golden Addition

I finally convinced my daughter to let me add a gold mirror above her bed. 

A few days ago I decided to gold leaf a thrift store mirror I had laying around.

It's hard to take photos when it is pouring cats and dogs outside. Still need to figure out how to switch lenses. 

Baby steps.

XO Barbara

25 Halloween decoration and display ideas!!

Ideas to make Halloween even more fun and stunning!! This post has some great display ideas for hallway, centerpieces and also easy kid's craft inspiration.

Some more amazing Halloween ideas you will love are:

 Ideas for crafting Halloween pumpkins

Inspiration and Ideas for Halloween holiday decoration

Great looking black and white plates look so perfect in this Halloween themed display. Don't bother yourself with real china/ceramic, just get paper plates and color then nice for a quick makeover. Super stylish at budget cost!!

Fireplace has always been a focal point in a living room. Dress it up for the occasion, easy craft store bought leaves and pumpkin with a bit of stenciling is all it takes to get this fabulous result!!

This display is all about getting the themed accessories. Look for nice festive tray and jars in the stores, they are loaded with Halloween colors and designs, create an instant gorgeous display. I would even look for some in thrift stores..they have some really quirky stuff too.

Easy way to dress up the hallway table. Get a quick and easy 'bat tree' with a dried shrub, paint it black and hang some paper bats. Decorate any votive with a paper sleeve with bat design. Ready for your tricksters!

Adore this cute little setup! I would even give away some spooky balloons to some little witch who comes knocking :) Very fun display and so easy to pull off.

Love the simple sophistication of the fall leaves wrapped candles. Get some real leaves or if not quite fall colors yet, look in your craft store. Pumpkin spice candles would be perfect for this season!

Love the elegance of this pretty amazing cake! The black lace looks so pretty, no small feat but give it a go. Its Halloween and no problem having some boo boos, its all good practice. Must try!

This cake looks so delicious! Easy to make and so apt for Halloween.Use box your fav boxed chocolate cake recipe and loads of frosting. Impress your family and friends!

This is a perfect way to bring some Halloween fun to your office space too. This idea is almost mess free and looks so fun. I am sure all of us know someone who are scared of a spider army :P

Love this delightful presentation. maybe more apt for thanksgiving, but a keeper non the less. Love the glazed, roasted look. How impressed would the guests be! The recipe is 'Roast pumpkin couscous salad' :-)

What a crazy mix of all things Halloween!! Go all the way and use your imagination to make your table extra spooky for the season. Booo!

From the crazy spooky table to this beautiful elegant table decoration. Love the table runner in love pumpkin spice color and pumpkin votive with hurricane chimney. This would keep your backyard party alive even late into the night.

This idea for displaying pumpkin craft is so unique and interesting. Perfect for country/cottage style decoration. Uses garden rake as a prop and the display is such a fresh take. I love how the petite pumpkin votive are delicately balanced on the prongs. So fab!

Halloween is one of the most awaited fun holiday for kids. Bring out their creativity and decorate their lovely crafts all over your home. It need not be costly or too time consuming. Here are some fabulous ideas to get their little fingers working and create beautiful gifts and decorations in no time! 

Candy corn! These ideas are simple to execute and look awesome. The bright color adds cheer to any corner. Make one with little effort, and decorate your home.

Place simple carved pumpkins on a cake stand to create an impressive display. Would looks fantastic on the porch, door front or even in the hallway.

 Adding a little bit of extra goes a long way when it comes to presentation! These cupcake look all dessed up for Halloween. Neat tip to decorate your treats!

I love the simplicity and technique of this pumpkin treat. Cut out lots of strips and punch a hole at each end. Run a pipe cleaner through both holes and add a leaf too. Push the strips closer and open them to look like a pumpkin. Add some treat/candy/cupcake before you open the strips to form the round shape. Easy?!!

These are typically the large Easter eggs in plastic that split in halves. But if you have a bag of Easter eggs that split across its still a good idea to work on! Place the eyes on the top half and nose and teeth in the lower one. Ta da! A thrifty fun and impressive craft idea!!

A perfectly safe and no cost idea to make treat bags more festive. Carve out designs on potato halves and let you kids have fun stamping! If they really take to it, making a skull/bat bunting to decorate your hallway/door too. How much easier can it get!

Craft using your home supplies is the best kind of craft! Toilet paper rolls wrapped in orange crepe for pumpkin. Make a little time to dress up lollipops as cute little ghosts! You will surely love the delightful squeals of little ones!

These little spooky pumpkin look absolutely wickedly adorable! Use online templates to get some fun party eye masks designs and there you have a funny bunch of pumpkins!

Yet another nice way to design a bat tree. Use clothes pin and glue paper bats to them. Use them all over the house too or simply get a branch to pop them on! Great diy idea.

Those looking to try their hand at carving, here are few fantastic designs! Make a template, get your thumb tack and scotch tape and get started! OR get some really bright neon yellow and paint it too. As a bonus it will look equally pretty in the mornings too :-)

Hope your creativite side has been tickled enough now :-) Try some new ways to display/celebrate the festive season. Happy Halloween everyone!!