Displaying posts labeled "Support"

When it comes to creating a space that truly reflects your style, most people think of furniture, lighting, or home flooring as the main design decisions. While these elements are important, walls are often the unsung heroes of interior design, and the right statement wall can completely transform your home. A statement wall, also known as a feature wall, is your opportunity to inject personality, colour, and texture into a room without overwhelming the entire space.

From bold colours to textured panels, the right choice can add depth, balance, and even change how big or small a room feels. But choosing one that elevates your home rather than clashes with it requires a little thought and planning.

Understanding the purpose of a statement wall

Before you start browsing paint swatches or wallpaper samples, ask yourself what you want your statement wall to achieve. Is it meant to bring warmth to a living area? Add drama to a bedroom? Highlight a unique architectural feature?

A well-chosen statement wall can:

• Draw the eye to a focal point in the room
• Enhance the existing colour scheme
• Create a sense of depth and dimension
• Reflect your personal style without overpowering the space

The clearer your goal, the easier it will be to narrow down your options.

Colour as a statement

One of the simplest and most affordable ways to create a statement wall is with paint. Bold, saturated colours can add drama and depth, while softer shades bring a sense of calm and relaxation. The key is to select a colour that complements your existing décor rather than competes with it.

If your home flooring features warm timber tones (whether natural hardwood or Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), rich earthy hues like terracotta, olive green, or deep gold can create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. LVP is particularly versatile, as it comes in a wide variety of shades and finishes that mimic everything from rustic timber to sleek modern surfaces, giving you plenty of flexibility when choosing wall colours. For lighter flooring styles, including pale oak or grey-toned LVP, cooler shades such as navy, charcoal, or teal can provide contrast while keeping the design balanced and intentional.

Textures and finishes

When creating a feature wall, colour is only part of the story, texture can be just as powerful. By introducing tactile surfaces, you instantly add depth, character, and personality to a room. Natural finishes such as timber, stone, or brick lend warmth and authenticity, while modern options like 3D wall panels, polished concrete, or textured wallpaper bring sophistication and impact. T

he right finishes don’t just enhance the wall itself; they also complement your furniture, lighting, and flooring to create a cohesive look. Textures can even shift the mood of a space – earthy, organic surfaces encourage a cosy, welcoming feel, whereas smooth and sleek finishes evoke a contemporary, open atmosphere. By experimenting thoughtfully with different textures, you can transform a flat wall into a striking focal point that elevates the overall style and ambience of your home.

Popular texture options

• Wallpaper with patterns, metallics, or botanical prints for a bold visual hit
• Timber panelling for warmth and character
• Stone cladding to add natural texture and depth
• 3D wall panels for a modern, architectural feel

Mixing textures with colour can create even more interest. For example, a navy-painted timber panel wall in a dining room can feel both sophisticated and cosy.

Using patterns effectively

Patterns can instantly energise a space, but they need to be handled with care. Large-scale geometric designs can make a strong statement in a contemporary home, while delicate florals or damask prints might suit a more traditional setting.

To keep things balanced, limit bold patterns to one wall and pair them with simpler, solid-coloured furnishings and accessories. This will prevent the space from feeling too busy.

Lighting your statement wall

The way you light a statement wall can dramatically influence its impact. Spotlights, wall sconces, or even LED strip lighting can help highlight texture and colour, especially in the evening.

For example, stone cladding takes on new life when lit from above, with shadows enhancing its texture. Similarly, a wallpapered wall can pop under soft, diffused lighting that draws attention to its patterns.

Coordinating with the rest of the room

A statement wall should feel like part of the overall design, not an isolated feature. Pull colours or textures from the wall into other elements of the room, such as cushions, artwork, or rugs. This creates visual harmony and ensures the wall complements rather than dominates the space.

It is also important to think about proportion. If your statement wall is bold and colourful, balance it with more neutral tones in the rest of the room. Conversely, if the wall is more understated, you can afford to use bolder accents elsewhere.

Making your statement wall work for your home

Choosing the right statement wall is all about balance, cohesion, and purpose. Whether you opt for bold colour, rich texture, or a striking pattern, the key is to ensure it complements your home flooring, furnishings, and overall style. Done well, a statement wall does not just change how a room looks, it changes how it feels. That is the true power of thoughtful interior design.

It’s like I say week in week out. If you have to drag yourself into work on a weekend it helps if it’s somewhere stylish. Office London by Joyce Sitterly.
Offices across the UK, from the West Coast of Scotland to London, are realising the importance of a well-considered workplace design for team motivation. So whether this is the midcentury aesthetic you want for your office in Camden, or a different vibe altogether in Ayrshire, office refurbishments help you cultivate a space that you and your employees love visiting any day of the week.

Photography by David Harrison.

A forecasted downpour might sound exciting, but not if you have leaky windows. Instead of scrambling for buckets and towels every time it rains, it’s worth taking a closer look at your windows. 
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you should know about leaky windows: common reasons, practical tests to confirm leaks, and quick DIY solutions.

Why Are My Windows Leaking?

From structural settling to damaged and ageing window frames, leaks can have many culprits. Even newer windows are not always exempt from trouble, especially if poorly installed or maintained. Researches show that 42% of Canadian homes experience condensation on window surfaces – a sign of seal failure and moisture. Broadly speaking, there are three identifiable areas that can cause leakage.

1. House Design

• Missing roof overhangs leave windows exposed.
• Flat or poorly sloped fascia boards over windows can cause water to pool.
  

2. Installation

• Poorly installed windows (even newer ones!) or windows with gaps in their flashing allow water to leak through.
• Substituting house wrap or building paper instead of proper window flashing.

3. Maintenance

• Missing paint seal; paint should form a watertight seal, overlapping onto the glass from the trim.
• Gaps or cracks in the caulking.
• Damaged glazing putty breaks the seal on the glass, leading to condensation between the double panes.
  

Identifying the Window Leak Source: Handy Tests

Before rushing to DIY solutions, you first must figure out the source of the leak. If the leak is around, above, or below the window, it means there is an opening in the wall that allows water in. The exposed gap isn’t necessarily directly beside the window, especially in older homes. In this case, look around the roof or upper floors.

If you think the leak is directly along the window frame (you see water coming through where the sash meets the jamb), here’s how to pinpoint it:

• Smoke. Bring a lit candle or incense to the window frame. When the flame or smoke pattern flutters, there’s your leak.
• Hose. It’s a two-person test. One person should spray water outside the window, while the other should stay inside and check for drips.
• Flashlight. Turn on a flashlight when it’s dark outside and shine around the frame to find the exact place of the gap.

Mould, mildew, water stains, peeling wallpaper, and bubbling paint are good indicators that you have leaky windows.

Quick Troubleshooting Table

Leaks don’t appear out of nowhere. Here’s a quick look at the usual suspects and whether you can tackle the issue on your own:

Symptom	Likely Cause	DIY or Pro
Bubbling pain	Failed caulking or flashing	DIY
Water stains on drywall	Leaky frame/blocked weep holes	DIY, if minor
Condensation between panes	Broken window seal	Usually pro required
Soft, spongy trim	Rotting wood	Pro required
Musty odour	Hidden mould/moisture	Pro recommended

DIY Solutions

So, you’ve identified a leak. What comes next? Don’t rush to hire a contractor. If you have a minor issue, you can fix it yourself. No DIY experience needed.

• Recaulk Problem Spots. Remove damaged exterior caulking with a utility knife, clean the frame, and apply a new layer. Always recaulk on a dry day with mild temperatures.
• Clear Weep Holes. Use a thin piece of wire, pipe cleaner, or a strong burst of compressed air to remove gunk. It’s time to put your quick DIY fix to test: pour clean water on the sill to ensure that it drains as it’s supposed to.
• Replace Damaged Weatherstripping. Remove old weatherstripping if torn or cracked. After cleaning the area, measure, cut, and install new weatherstripping sections. Remove paper from adhesive-backed strips or just press them into the groove if they are pressure-fit.
• Re-Glaze. Remove old glazing, smooth the frame with sandpaper, apply new glaze, and smooth it out with a putty knife. When hardened, coat with oil-based primer.

Calling the Pros

Extensive water damage or structural issues require professional expertise and tools. Call it quits and hire a window or building specialist if:

• The frame is squishy, spongy, or rotten.
• Mould is omnipresent and spreads behind the paint.
• Large areas of drywall are stained.
• Flooded glass unit, regardless of the weather.
• Visible cracks around the frame.

If you have to spend money on replacements, go with ENERGY STAR–rated models — they must have a government-backed certification program.

Preventing Window Leaks: Best Tips and Tricks

Whether you have a shiny new ENERGY STAR–rated window or an old, drafty one, some level of maintenance is still necessary. CMHC Capital Replacement Planning Manual states that regular maintenance can boost a window’s lifespan significantly, potentially by up to 15 years. To save money and avoid dealing with costly replacements, make seasonal check-ups mandatory. Here’s what to pay special attention to:

What to Check	Why It Matters	How Often
Caulking	Shouldn’t be cracked, peeling, or missing. Reseal or replace if necessary, or the water will go right into your house.	Inspect annually; reseal as needed
Weep Holes	Located along the outside bottom of the window. The gunk accumulates pretty quickly, leading to leaks.If you have operable sliders or hung windows, the cleanliness of drainage channels is crucial.	Clean them every spring and fall
Weatherstripping	Worn or missing strips allow water and drafts in.	Check annually
Roof/Chimney/Siding	Damaged roof shingles, gaps around fireplace chimney and exhaust pipes, or loose siding — all let water sneak inside.	Inspect twice a year, especially after major storms
Gutters/Downspouts	Clogged gutters and downspouts cause overflow, which will soak walls and windows.	Clean every spring and fall
Vegetation	Untrimmed vegetation can trap moisture near walls and windows. This raises the risk of mould and leaks.	Trim seasonally

Saving Money

If DIY solutions and prevention aren’t enough, you may need to hire professionals and likely install new windows. Keep in mind that energy-efficient ones can be expensive. Luckily, there are federal and provincial loans and rebates to help finance the repair and allow you to save money.

The Canada Greener Homes Initiative finances a range of home improvements, including insulation, energy-efficient windows, and even solar panels. The Canada Greener Homes Loan offers up to $40,000 interest-free financing. Also, look into provincial programs, like Éconologis in Quebec — they offer free energy efficiency services and home improvements, such as caulking, for low-income households. If you want to know about rebates in each province, check this handy rebate guide.

Another year has ended for the A’ Design Award & Competition. With sooooo many categories to apply for this is the world’s largest design competition. But it is not just an award. It is an indicator of quality and perfection in design, recognized worldwide, bringing your design front and centre before design companies and professionals. Categories such as Interior Space and Exhibition Design; Architecture, Building and Structure Design; Furniture, Decorative Items and Homeware Design; Lighting Products and Lighting Projects Design; Arts, Crafts and Ready-Made Design; Landscape Planning and Garden Design and so many more.

Entries have been judged by an international jury panel of scholars, professionals and media members. The prize? The trophy, of course, a certificate of quality, inclusion in the prestigious A’ Design Award and Competition exhibition and the yearly ResultBook but even more importantly press, PR, introduction to industry professionals and companies and international exposure. The fame, the prestige, the recognition and so much more.
And finally the 2024-2025 winners have been announced! Can you imagine the scale of this competition? Winners from over 100 countries in over 100 different design disciplines!

Here are some of my favourite winners for 2024-2025 in the Furniture and Lighting Products & Fixtures categories.

Genipabu by Estúdio Galho

Embrasse Moi Lamp by Giuseppe Tortato

AI Vision Sofa by Yunxiang Zou

Tura Table by Mai Wahdan

Chicago Line Armchair by Alexandre Kasper

Accordion Modular Sofa by Yuqi Wang

Color Roller Furniture Set by Chuheng He

Ori Floor Lamp by Lincoln Chen

Crochet Floor Lamp by Alexey Danilin

Infinito Light by Seyedsajad Jalalsadat

Kromme Coffee Table by Robert Wakeland

Cat Ear Multifunctional Chair by Mingzhi Cai and Hongqi Cai

Andorinha Chair by Matthias Ambros

Cornices New Chinese Furniture by Wei Jingye and Fan Anran

Osso Chair by Wongsun Yoo

Firefly Lamp by Mahya Hoseini

Curved Chair by Beijing Forestry University

Musubi Stool by Mizuki Chinen

Churros Lighting by Yi Hsien Lin

Ultra Mariner Lighting Planter System by Studio Beam

EcoMod Modular Lighting Fixtures by Guoyu Wang

These are just a small sample of the winners. If you head here you can explore so many more categories and their winners.

A’ Design Award and Competitions are organized and awarded annually and internationally in a wide range of categories, and you can check this link to find more details . Every year projects that focus on innovation, technology, design and creativity are awarded with the A’ Award. While realized projects find opportunities to get published, reach new markets and meet a wide range of buyers for their existing products, the organization also helps the creative minds and startups to meet with the business people to realize their product ideas. Early Registrations to A’ Design Award are now open, enter your works for fame, prestige and international publicity. To register for next year’s competition you can do so here.

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This post is brought to you in collaboration with A’ Design Award and Competition.

While touring readers through four of his own homes, Alfredo Paredes shares the key elements in his creative process, giving us access to the same tools he uses in every home to decorate rooms that feel modern even as they glamorize the past, to show us how an environment has real power to transform our very state of mind. Paredes is renowned for being a master of extrapolating an entire theme from one unique item, say transforming the stripe of a crisp Oxford shirt into a unique upholstery perfect for the seaside, or finding inspiration for a couch’s decorative fringe in a well-worn piece of leather ranch gear. He is said to have “perfect visual pitch,” creating vignettes and rooms with an energy that feels undeniably masculine and sophisticated thanks to dark wood, iron railings, rustic fabrics, an overall patina, and soft furnishings in soothing earth tones.
Alfredo is a favourite designer of mine and I’m soooo excited to have a copy of his first book: Alfredo Paredes at Home (Rizzoli). This is a definite must-have if neutral but dramatic spaces are up your alley. (I’ve gone through this book three times already and I’ve only had it a week or so!)

I was not familiar with the work of designer Marcus Mohon before receiving this book The Romance of Home: Houses by Mohon Interiors (Rizzoli), and now I’m wondering how that could have happened?!
The chic, soulful, livable spaces of Texas-based interior designer Marcus Mohon exert a universal appeal with their air of timeless serenity. This debut volume presents several extraordinary homes, ranging from a stone-clad villa in Austin to a casual seaside retreat to an art-filled family compound, each of which gracefully balances high style with easygoing comfort. Mohon draws on the heritage of the Mediterranean world to fashion living environments that transport their occupants to an enchanted realm far removed from day-to-day concerns. Sophisticated and full of patina, these interiors are sure to delight and inspire.
The elegance and romance of the projects featured in this book are so worthy of being in a book and sitting on my coffee table. I am now a new fan and look forward to following along with his work.

Last but certainly not least is Relaxed Elegance: Rooms for Living Well by Brittany Bromley (Rizzoli). I have featured her work on the blog a few times and always find it such a fun and fresh take on the traditional style I have grown to love.
The first book from interior designer Bromley, whose rooms brim with a welcoming sensibility that reveal her fresh, colorful, pattern-filled take on traditional design. Known for a pretty and polished Palm Beach meets Park Avenue aesthetic, Bromley’s interiors are beloved. Often described as “classic with a kick,” her work is steeped in history but infused with a modernity that reflects how her clients want to live today. Bromley’s first book showcases her interiors from New York, St. Louis, and Palm Beach with the Hamptons and Connecticut between. Whether in a historic house in the country or a townhouse in the city, Bromley’s flair for pattern and color defines her interiors, which nevertheless remain true to their surroundings. She makes casual look chic and infuses each home she designs with a cheerfulness and tranquility that is rare. Walls lacquered in bright colors highlight a home’s architecture, while comfortable upholstered furnishings in bold, patterned fabric make it feel livable and fun.