There were 10 distinct problems to overcome in this space. Can you spot what they were?Ok here are the answers:1) A wedged shape floorplan.2) Huge support columns.3) Too large of kitchen area.4) Laminated cherry floor transition location.5) The work triangle (fridge, range and sink) was set in one-third of the [...]

It’s not fun to live through the dust of a reno, but with a good plan you can enjoy the process and be happy with the results.To make more space, consider taking out a wall, making a niche behind the range, or taking out an unused bump-out.Repurpose the space in your [...]

I find that if you cannot determine what is good about a place and be able to look closely at its attributes, and its occupants, and how they use the space, you’ll miss the opportunity to help intensify and bring out the individuality of the place, to their delight. Start by just looking. [...]

How many areas do you have stopped looking at because they are just too much work?Over the years it seems that the beauty in a room or a small part of a room comes from having to figure out the most difficult problems.A sunny nook, a dramatic kitchen transformation or just a simple [...]

Families are the strongest groups we have in society. I think any activity that helps to strengthen families should be helped. My own family meet-ups involve frequent gatherings around a large granite island at my sister’s country home. That’s why when my daughter Hillary’s new in-laws asked me to help them [...]

Do you ever have a moment – you are trying to make something, cook a great meal, pick an out fit and you start to hear your mother telling you what to do? You feel trapped by the “now I’m supposed tos”.Break out of that! Learn how to work freely between the two [...]

Simple materials.Rich material.Is it the finest of materials that make it art?Or is it the application of the language?It’s both, as when the language is artfully applied it creates a clear communication.

I learned early from excellent Mennonite carpenters that even with simple materials, such as wood, with a bit more care and attention, that the motifs could be repeated to create harmony throughout the home.You can create an interior with more impact by closely observing the details and bringing them out in the selections [...]

Have you ever noticed in a movie how the production usually has a colour scheme that is gently woven all the way thru the movie? The same can be done in a home. You can start with a neutral pallet and add a strong color in strategic placements, all the thru the home. [...]

The Architect gave us a cue to how to design this room with his signature oval-shaped window. If you don’t have any inspiring shapes given to start with, here is what you can do.First work out the message. For example do you want a masculine or feminine message in the room? Each mood [...]