blog Archives - Fine Finishes

How to Make Your Space Warm & Welcoming

Have you noticed how some spaces exude a sense of welcome? What is it about them that invites people to linger? And what is it that keeps them coming back? As a designer, my job is to ask these questions and in my experience the answer is different for every client.

Regardless of what “home” means, there are likely some common denominators: warm, cozy, comfortable, relaxing, you get the picture. There is no magic pill to achieving a sense of warmth in the home, but there are strategic ways to contribute to this effortlessly deliberate, totally unmistakable look and feel. Here is how to turn up the heat, to help any space feel more like “home.”

#1 Physical Warmth

This is the type of heat that you can feel, experienced through physical touch. It’s what entices you to run your hand across the velvet sofa cushions and drape yourself in plush blankets with the rug beneath your bare feet. Window treatments, rugs, pillows, throws and your furniture upholstery go a long way toward achieving that overall sense of warmth and comfort.

Textiles are often left as an afterthought when designing a room, but I prefer to incorporate them in the greater design plan, as they are an impactful element not to be forgotten. Curtains, rugs, pillows and blankets, and the upholstery you choose for seats, chairs, and your sofa all play an important role in the ambiance. layer different textures to add depth to the design. If warmth is important to you, textiles could be something that is worth splurging on.

Fireplace Focus: For obvious reasons, the fireplace is a natural focal point in any room, whether appealing to an audience with its crackling flames or as a display space for art and accessories. Allow your fireplace to be the centre of attention, and if you do not have one, get one. Depending on your budget and the desired look and feel, you have many options available to you: wood-burning, gas, electric, and Dimplex even offers a water vapor fireplace that is safe, versatile, vent-free and more affordable than its wood or gas counterparts.

#2 Perceived Warmth

This is the type of warmth that you experience visually. When you enter a room, you immediately get a sense of its “temperature” based on what you can see. Is it soft and organic? Crisp and contemporary? Maybe it is antique and storied. when choosing your home’s overall aesthetic, be mindful of how different styles impact your emotions. Regardless of the style you choose, visual warmth can be achieved by layering different patterns, textures, materials, and finishes. Remember: variety brings interest and keeps the eye engaged.

Also consider “lighting temperature.” Light bulbs come in a variety of tints that can set the tone for the

space, ranging from cool bluish-white to warm-yellow that mimics candlelight and neutral “daylight” options. Consider what you will be doing in the room, and what type of lighting will best accommodate those actions. After all, function must come first. Will you be dining and relaxing? Reading and doing paperwork? Watching movies? Warm light is commonly used in residential applications like living areas, bedrooms, kitchens, dining rooms, etc. On the other hand, cool light is ideal for workspaces such as an office, hobby, or laundry room. Ensure a consistent light temperature in the room and put your lights on dimmers to keep it versatile.

#3 Emotional Warmth

This is the warmth that is felt within; the kind that tugs at your heartstrings. A thoughtful medley of art, accessories and the small details can collectively tell the story of your past, your travels and your passions. In short, this is the personality of your home.

Warm up the mood of your space by putting yourself on display. Here is your chance to unpack those mementos from the past and integrate them into your present. Collections, books, photographs, and art all help tell your story and turn an empty room into a reflection of its inhabitant.

“Home” means something different to everyone, and while these tips are a good general guideline, they will be interpreted and realized differently by everyone. there is no right or wrong way to turn a house into a home. If it feels right to you, that is the most important thing.

mix of classic with modern of white and blue/grey kitchen cabinetry, white counter-top and modern chairs

4 Tips for Surviving The Reno

Although you might think reno season starts in spring, you might be surprised to learn that we in the design world are already well into it. Anyone who’s ever endured a home renovation knows that planning and preparation are key. If a renovation project is been looming and you think you might finally be ready to go for it, here are four pieces of advice to kick your project off on the right foot.

1. Where will you see the best ROI? A renovation is usually the outcome triggered by one of two things – you’re selling your home, or you’ll be living in it. Regardless of your motive, always keep your eyes on the prize and identify the renovations that will yield the best return on your investment. Kitchens, bathrooms and hardwood flooring come with a hefty price tag, but they also offer the best returns. Alternately, some quick and cost-effective upgrades include a fresh coat of paint, re-facing cabinetry, new hardware and lighting.

2. The best projects aren’t necessarily the most exciting ones. This is where you need to separate your needs from your wants. Are there obvious issues with your home that need to be fixed? These projects should always be prioritized over the “extras.” Moisture issues, outdated electrical and plumbing, a ragged roof – these may not give you the same “instant gratification” as a shiny new kitchen might, but most homeowners and designers will agree on this one – it’s a top priority.

3. Have a budget, stick to it. Home renovation spending has a tendency to run amok. There can be a number of possible reasons for this – poor planning, indecision, and those inevitable surprises that come to light once the walls are opened up. Always have a 10- to 15-per-cent buffer budget, to cover any unexpected expenses. Some homeowners might also opt to take the road less travelled (also known as “DIY”) in the interest of saving a few bucks. I always recommend working with an experienced professional, who will get the job done right the first time. Otherwise, you could end up paying twice to have faulty work corrected later.

4. Book your trades well in advance. The construction and renovation industry has two seasons: slow and “whirlwind.” Ensure you engage your professional tea, early on in the process, to give them plenty of notice to line up any sub-trades and ensure your project materials are ordered and delivered on time. Depending on where you’re located, the time of year and what’s happening in the housing market (i.e. a seller’s market can mean a busier-than-normal reno season), your wait for your preferred contractor could be from six months to a year.

A home renovation comes with a whirlwind of emotions: excitement, frustration, anticipation, and some stress thrown in for good measure. By working with a pro, you can minimize the negative feelings and make the most of your project, your budget and your space!