Anyone who opens a closet door to a wall of disarray, with items slipping off mismatched hangers into growing piles on the floor can tell you how utterly defeating and exhausting it all just looks, much less how crazy it can feel to start wading through it all, just in an effort to get dressed for … [Read more...]
Home Renovation: The Last 10%
We are at the point in our renovation where things seem to be moving really slowly. We are all tired of the whole thing and we just want it done. The last 10% of any renovation is the toughest. With all the little details left to be done, with people in your space for the last 6 months and … [Read more...]
Film Review – Design Is One
Let's face it. When it comes to design and style, few countries can top the Italians. If you're looking for proof, look no further than Lella and Massimo Vignelli. Even if you are not familiar with their names, I bet you've seen their work. For over fifty years, this Italian couple has affected … [Read more...]
Getting it ALL – Beauty and Functionality in the Kitchen
We are very busy so I need a kitchen that works for our family. When planning our renovation I have had a tendency to get off track and a bit starry eyed looking at some of the beautiful design options, especially for the kitchen. Custom built cabinets, restaurant grade appliances and wine cellars … [Read more...]
The Kitchen Backsplash: My Toughest Reno Decision Yet
The kitchen backsplash was turning out to be the toughest decision yet. I have come to realize that the kitchen is the most complex and time consuming room in the house to redesign. There are so many details and decisions to make it is mind boggling. And one of those decisions has had me virtually … [Read more...]
A Sleek New Trend in Bathroom Design
This is a guest post by designer, Silvia Mazzone of edesignboutique.com. My first home was a small starter that was in an ideal location, but the house was definitely not a 'keeper'. As a result, I had resolved to renovate minimally, which meant I didn't get my dream bathroom. Consequently, when … [Read more...]
White: The Latest Trend in Kitchens
This is a guest post by designer, Silvia Mazzone of edesignboutique.com. For years I avoided everything white when it came to kitchen appliances. It seemed to be a hallmark of the 80's – white fridge, white stove, white toaster. It was all very pristine, but the products lines, at that time, … [Read more...]
Demolition Premonition
Suddenly reality hits, and you are literally in a cloud of dust..., demo dust. Let's face it, renovating your house is a daunting task for several reasons. It starts off with all of the exciting elements- a more functional space, sparkling new finishes, the latest gadgets. Suddenly reality hits, … [Read more...]
Home Renovation: Demolition
Big changes ahead! A home renovation is a massive undertaking! This photo gallery takes you through the demolition phase of our 90+ year old home in Toronto. We are upgrading, reconfiguring and building an addition. Have you ever gone through a home renovation? What tips or advice can you offer? … [Read more...]
Top 10 Tips for Making a Temporary Space Your Own
During our renovation project we are lucky to have a designer helping us and even more fortunate that she will be contributing regular posts to UrbanMoms. We asked Silvia how to make our temporary space in my sister's basement more our own for the months we will be living here. She gave us some … [Read more...]