Everyone always wants to know how much a bathroom renovation will cost…
Well the answer is not as simple or clear as one would hope for.
A bathroom renovation costs anywhere from 10 to 100 thousand dollars, much of which depends on the finishes you select. It’s also why it’s so important to build a footprint for each project so you know exactly where your money is going. Take flooring for example, if you prefer large stone marble walls and floors in lue of ceramic ones, you best get ready to pay more!
Lucky for me, my bathroom ensuite was part of a larger renovation, that included an extension on our old craftsman style home, so I was able to start fresh. The space was an empty canvas ready for me to paint on the plumbing and layout.
During the initial demo we removed the original 1920 clawfoot tub. I’d heard stories of how cozy these tubs were and thought including it in my design was a wonderful way of acknowledging the era of the home.
Other elements I envisioned for my new ensuite bathroom was a double sink vanity, a curb-less shower and a canopy shower head with an extendable hand tap (to make cleaning the claw foot tub easier). I’d also always wanted a bidet toilet and lucked out finding a deluxe model from American Standard, the Advance Clean SpaLet 100 Bidet, which included a heated seat, dryer and multi functioning water levels.
I fell in love the with idea of french doors opening up into the bathroom and sourced two beautiful solid white oak doors from Metrie that fit the space perfectly. In my mind it was clear, the double french doors would open to reveal the old clawfoot tub under a large window centred in the room. What a statement!
With my wish list, and the floor plan parameters in place, I started designing a mood board and selecting my tiles. Finding a floor tile was more challenging than I thought, so I ended up taking the lime hex tiles provided by Elegant Flooring, originally intended for my basement bathroom, and moved them upstairs to the ensuite. Next, I fell in love with a textured tile called “Stripes” from Wow tile, and wanted them to be a feature in the room from floor to ceiling and behind the vanity. These tiles were special order, and would take months to arrive so I ordered them early into my renovation journey.
Once I had the physical tiles in hand I quickly realized their texture created concern, perhaps the plumbing finishes wouldn’t fit around them, a less experienced tiler took one look at them and said… I don’t think so.
In order to skirt around the issue, I decided to pick a wall tile for the shower (artisan white from Centura ) a classic tile I used in my last renovation) . This tile is flat and blends in with nicely enough that I could move forward with the bathroom renovation. Everything was coming together beautifully, all my Delta Faucet fixtures in champagne bronze that I had selected had arrived and the plumbers were well on their way rouging in the shower, toilet and sinks.
Then our next issue arose…. where to get the clawfoot tub refinished. I called around, asked my social media audience for leads, but kept striking out. Refinishing this tub was starting to be a real pain. With the tub interior and enamel in such rough shape, I started to look for alternative options. A new tub? A plastic insert? I decided to put a pin in it while I dealt with larger issues surrounding my renovation.
More issues popped up - of course they did! My new experienced tiler, said he could work with the texture of the stripes tile but was concerned about the large scale of hex tiles sloping to the drain of the curb-less shower. Too many cuts and raw edges would make it difficult and unsafe. He asked if I could pick a different tile for the shower floor…
Oh boy, this was really throwing a wrench in my design plans. Another tile? I was going for cohesion and throwing another tile into the mix wasn’t sitting well. Off to Wacky’s flooring I went, to take a look at their selection for floor and wall tile. If I could keep my tile selections to 3 instead of 4 I just might be able to pull off the look I wanted.
I settled on a simple square matte white tile for the shower wall and floor and hoped that running it from the floor to the ceiling might make it look intentional. My tiler was relieved when I brought back a 2x2 square tile for him to work with. So the artisan white tiles were on the cutting room floor and we were back on track with my bathroom renovation.
With the floor under control, my attention turned to the vanity. I started looking for off the rack options that might work in the space. I loved the solid wood vanities in my previous home, but my plumbing was set with the sinks specifically placed 29 inches from each other in the middle, so drawer banks could be on either side. There was nothing that would work with the perimeters that were set, so the only option was custom. I drew out my vision for the vanity and worked with my carpenter on the build details.
We were able to pick up the furniture grade plywood I needed from Robert Bury, and Handy Harry started making the cuts and building the vanity. To finish off the cabinet we stained it with Nano defence (keeping the natural Oak look) and I selected the modern glass pull from Emtek.
While the vanity was being built, I selected my counter top. Wanting something unique with dramatic veining, I discovered the new Awake Stone from Dekton and wondered if it would be right for the room. With so much going on with the tile, floor, and vanity, was I overdoing it with the big bold stone pattern?
I decided to go with my gut instinct and just do it! I asked the manufacturer Living Stone to produce a chunky edge counter and a backsplash high enough to cover the plumbing and simplify the tile job. It worked! I loved the look! I think the Awake Stone was the exact amount of bold that I needed to really make this vanity pop!
After the vanity was complete and the countertops installed, the tilers came back to finish off the wall behind the mirrors with the textured Stripes Tile.
I hung the wood arched mirrors from Mercana that Lazy Boy in Halifax had ordered me, and all that was left before the big photo shoot was to find some sconces to go next to my mirrors and the right blind for the big window above the clawfoot tub.
I popped over to Kent to see what they might have in stock. I felt like I had a horse shoe around my neck when I found the Talia Sconce (only $109) hanging on the wall. It was just the right neutral colour palette with a touch of gold, perfect! But, ugh, they were out of stock and I needed them TODAY. The sales rep checked and another store had them in stock so I rushed over to snag two of the last ones - hooray!
While at Kent, I took a peek at the blinds available in store. There was a bamboo roll up shade of particular interest to me that came in 4 colour ways. I thought the white would make a lovely soft natural fibre for the bathroom window but the 60 Inch blind that was on the shelf was slightly large to be mounted to the the interior of the window. On the bright side, they were quite inexpensive (only $71.99) and after being quoted thousands of dollars for wooden shades like the windows on my main floor, I thought perhaps I could figure out a way to cut them to fit…they were wood after all.
As luck would have it, I did figure out a way to cut them. I used a pair of scissors to cut down the width, then used the chop saw to trim the wood binder at the top. I shortened them and secured the bottom ropes with a hot glue gun. After that, I glued a piece of sheer fabric liner onto the back. When it was time to install them, I ditched the hooks and staple gunned them right to the window trim. And there you have it, for under $100 coupled with a little elbow grease (and my DIY mom experience), I had the custom wooden blind look I wanted from the start.
Last but not least I finally found a local business to refinish my Clawfoot Tub! Beautiful Baths came to my home, sanded down the interior and reglazed my tub for $1400. So worth it! If you ask me, they are true miracle workers!
So my bathroom is complete, a neutral haven away from the choas of the day. Let me know what you think of my design choices in the comments below! Feel free to share and pin my photos and content if you love it!
How I brought this principle bedroom suite to life with carefully curated furniture, lighting and home accents.
Now on my third major personal home renovation, I have gotten to know what I love and prefer when it comes to my principle bedroom. I wanted this space in my craftsman style home, built in 1922, to feel like a glamorous hotel room. A quiet and tranquil space to get away from the busyness of life and renovations. Anyone who has an active imagination will empathize with me when I say how challenging it can be to turn off my mind truly experience the rest and relaxation my brain needs at night.
With this in mind, I started my mood boards for my bedroom early in this homes renovation journey.
The first thing I selected was the wall mural I wanted to use in my bedroom. The paper I found called Opulence, became the theme for my entire home. I large scale print, that is measured and custom printed for you exact space is what separates a wall mural from the usual wallpaper. This wallpaper comes in 5 colour ways, and despite my usual inclination for pink, I opted for the more neutral option in marble, knowing this would be a splendid back drop for the rest of my room.
You can see in the photo to the right that the wallpaper frames the dramatic Oak double doors and original trim into my ensuite bathroom perfectly. With such a spectacular wall print, minimal art is needed to fill the space. The marble and gold is echoed elsewhere in the rooms design.
Next I was on to my lighting selections. I’ve partnered with Eurofase on previous projects and have long loved the quality and designs they offer.
I was drawn to the lustrous collection of delicate, gold metal chains in the Bloomfield Chandelier. I had never seen anything like it, and with the extra high ceiling space this home gifted with me post extension, I thought there was no better way to wow my audience than with this transitional piece. The Eurofase website describes this light as a cascading waterfall, and with the lights on I have to agree. It’s a visual stunner!
When it came to my bedroom furniture I really lucked out by being able to source the perfect pieces locally! The Atrium in Highfield park Dartmouth Nova Scotia, is a one stop shop for all your furniture needs. With 3 amazing stores all in one location I was able to find the exact bed frame, nightstand, art and benches I needed to complete my bedroom. Everything I needed was in stock and ready to be delivered directly to my home. With furniture delays and shipping challenges I have faced over the last few years, this was such a breath of fresh air. It’s also worth the mention that the Atrium is the largest furniture retailer in Atlantic Canada and a family owned and operated business.
So off i went to the atrium to pick out my bedroom furniture and instantly I fell in love with the upholstered Sawyer King Bed on the floor in Gallery 1. The Stitched flanged slipcover over muslin upholstered footboard/side rails was the perfect anchor for my bedroom room. I love its simplicity, elegance and stature. This is a timeless piece and exactly the comfort one wants when crawling into bed at the end of a long day.
I recommend a trip to Gallery 1 if only to browse their jaw dropping selection of hand picked beautiful decor and furniture.
Finding the perfect night stand for this room was a slight challenge. I was working with a very specific room dimension and window height. The floor plan of my 100 year old home gave me just the right amount of space to fit a king bed with windows on either side. When I stumbled on the Freslowe nightstand in the Ashley Furniture showroom, I breathed a sigh of relief. It was the exact size and style I was looking for, plus the warm wood tone complimented the slip cover bed perfectly! I also love the unique display shelf with night light feature and the built in plugs in the back. It’s such a great find.
As a bonus I was able to get the Abiola Wall Art for above the bedframe and the adorable Dakmore bench from World Wide Furniture. Also located in the Atrium. They truly have options for all looks and design aesthetics- traditional, transitional and modern, at all price points. Plus they offer no interest and no payment financing options. Trust me, when you are at the end of your renovation budget like I am, this makes all the difference.
Pressed for time and wanting my bedroom to feel complete. I quickly made these no sew valences to cover my inexpensive room darkening roller shades from Kent Building Supplies.
With some white linen from the local fabric store I carefully folded and ironed the pleats into place, using a fabric tape to secure the seams, I slowly ironed the glue into place and then staple gunned the completed valence to the underside of my window trim. Each curtain took me around 40 minutes to fabricate and instal.
The room darkening roller shades were cut to size at Kent Building Supplies and easy to instal myself.
So that wraps up my bedroom blog and the details behind this principle room. What do you think? Do you love this room as much as I do? Leave a comment below with your thoughts and questions on my bedroom design choices.
I hope you were able to catch my segment with CTV Atlantic, but in case you missed it, I am sharing it here!
As someone who is late to the camping game - my family didn’t camp together when we were kids, I’m not much of the roughing it type! On our first journey out with the camper my daughter said to me… “I don’t know about this camping thing mom, I’m more of an indoor girl.” I had to chuckle at the comment from my then 8 year old daughter. But as many of us turned to camping as covid kept us close to home, this 1973 Boler camper came into our life and transformed the way we felt about the great outdoors.
So as a reformed non camper, I’ve discovered how bringing a little luxury along to the campground can make an outdoor excursion much more pleasant. Keep Reading for my 5 Camping Tips for Non Campers!
I love Christmas, and so does Lennon. But mostly I live for a holiday table display!
With holiday parties quickly approaching, let’s go over some tips and display options that will help you set your table to holiday imperfect perfection. By adding hits of sparkle and personal touches, your dinner parties will never look so festive!
This year is especially exciting to welcome guests from near and far, as the world is getting bak to “normal” we can host our little hearts out and enjoy the company of loved ones around the table.
Holiday Table Set Up
Not sure where to start? Let me help you with that! Though this is the greatest time of year, the holidays can be stressful, there is SO much to do. You want to give your guests the best experience, make sure you thought of everything, make sure your decorations are perfect et etc etc.. Well, the first tip I’ll give you is let’s remove the PERFECT. Being perfectly Imperfect is the way to go. This tip comes in handy with so much in life but especially when doing a gorgeous table display.
First: You will want to clear your table off. Having an empty, squeaky clean surface is the best place to start when doing any display.
Second: You’ll want to gather anything you will want to incorporate. Such as greenery, candles, dinnerware, napkins down to the bulbs and glittery pinecones you might want to use. Grouping these things by item together on the table makes it easier to place and allows you to see how each item will work together. It sort of gives you the overall vision before you set it.
Third: If you know what your centrepiece will consist of, such as garland, candles etc, place that FIRST. If you aren’t sure what your centrepiece will be just yet, start with each place setting. If you start with your centrepiece which is what I did for this display - Heres how to do it!
Place the centrepiece of your choice, (garland for me) fluff the leaves, add ornaments, glittery pinecones, candle sticks and candles, as well as any other items you may want to incorporate. Placing items where the garland has a natural bend looks the most natural. I try to space each item out so one style of candlestick aren’t all on one end of the table, but I don’t put too much thought into where each item land. When things are too thought out, it takes away the inviting feeling. I don’t want my guests to be scared to even look at the table display let alone enjoy a meal by it!
If you’re starting with place settings, I like to choose a variety of plates, sizes, shapes, patterns etc to mix and match, it makes each guest feel like it was done just for them. Layering dishes really adds to the overall look and feel of the display.
Whats next you ask? Keep reading to find out!
Adding Details And Personal Touches!
Okay so we have the place settings and centrepiece completed. Now its step four! Adding the little details that add so much to the overall presentation of your table. As you can see in the photos below, adding things like candy canes as a little welcome treat for your guests is festive and an added touch they’ll appreciate.
Here are a few more personal touches can you do to make your holiday table special for your guests:
Giving your loved ones cards is something I love doing. I took it a step further this year, and made my own cards to put at each place setting for my guests. So they not only have a candy cane to enjoy, but they can ready what I love about them too. I used my Cricut Joy to create these unique holiday cards!
Notice the wooden menu boards? I decided to make my own menu and print it for the table! You could also do a menu board for each guest, or pass one around the table. It’s a simple thing to do but adds just one more layer to your dinner. These ones are from the home and restaurant supply store Big Erics.
Shopping Your Home!
The holidays are full of giving. Don’t let the thought of spending too much on a table display like this steer you away. You can make a beautiful table display without breaking the bank! Heres how:
Shop your home!
What do you have around your house that you can pull to make your display beautiful? I took candles from my bedroom that have already been burned! You don’t need to go out to the store and buy brand new candles, pop some in you love using!
Christmas tree or table display?
If your Christmas tree is up, you’ve got yourself some decorations for that garland on your table. I grabbed a handful of ornaments that were maybe one too many from my tree and scattered them on the garland. It added a hit of Christmas cheer and elegance without having to make a trip to the store, and when I’m done with them, they’ll go right back on the tree!
Go outside and shop your yard, neighbourhood or a local park!
There are so many things to be gathered like sticks, branches, pinecones, you name it, to help with your table display. I gathered a handful of pinecones and love the element of texture they bring to the table. (Pun intended!)
Time to use grammas china! Have any dinnerware that have been passed down over generations, or were given to you as gifts over the years? Time to dig them out and let them be appreciated for their meaning! Adding something that has a story behind it is a conversation piece and brings all your guests closer.
Remember, using items from around your home makes any display not only more meaningful but cost effective as well. Mixing items that might be new or passed down for generations adds topics for conversation. Placing items without trying to be “perfect” will allow you and your guests to really take in the beautiful table display in front of them without being too worried to ruin it! Tis’ the season for being around loved ones, not worrying about the fray in your napkin or the stain on your table.
Enjoy this special time around the table with those that are the most special to you this holiday season!
Happy Haul-idays! This blog is sponsored by 1-800-GOT-JUNK?
My decluttering journey started a number of years ago. I was gifted the Marie Kondo Book “The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” over the holidays and the book truly resonated with me in a big way. I started the process of simplifying my home, donating access items and creating more space for friends and family in my home.
This holiday season, I invite you to join me on this ongoing journey - get your junk hauled away and create more room for holiday cheer this season. Here are a few tips I incorporated into my home that I think will make a huge difference in your spirit levels this Christmas.
If It Doesn’t Spark Joy To The World- Let It Go Go Go
When I applied this principle to my closet, I was able to gift, donate or toss the access away without any pain. I just held the item in my hand and if it sparked joy I held on to it. No joy - it went in the donate bag. Who doesn’t take advantage of those amazing deals during the holidays? Making room in your closet this time of year can help for when you bring home all those pieces you stood in line for during those save the tax events! By using the “Spark Joy” tip, I now have so much more room in my closet for those holiday parties and dinners!
Holly Jolly Decluttering! All Similar Things Go Together
Not only does decluttering give my brain more space to live whole heartedly but my life has become so much easier when I am not panicked and looking for my car keys all the time. This is a very easy principle to start your decluttering journey. It’s simple really. All the Tupperware are in a single drawer in the kitchen and all the snacks in another. Bags go inside of bags, purses inside of purses. Once you get all the same things together, you can see how much you have and can get rid of the access! Doing this also creates a sense of ease for your guests, so they can find everything easily!
Happy Places, Happy Faces!
With so many different cooks in the kitchen during this time of year, making sure everything is easy to find, accessible and organized is incredibly helpful. Doing things like putting ingredients into clear containers, so you can see what you have. Putting all like items such as spices, baking items, tea, coffee, etc in their own little baskets or clear containers helps to keep things together. Last but certainly not least, labelling is life changing. When you label what things are, it makes life so much easier, not only for you, but for your guests too!
Now for a few personal tips that I have garnered along the way.
Tis’ The Season For Giving - Declutter & Donate When Your Kids Aren’t Home!
Lennon has outgrown so many clothing items or no longer plays with certain toys. Now is the perfect time of year to donate her once loved items to other children. How many times have you gone through yours kids old clothing and toys, put them into bags, only to have them tear back through them and pull out various items? Lennon’s classic line is “I want to save that for my kids!” Really? There are a few sentimental items I don’t mind holding on to in a small box or chest for her, but trust me, those sneakers you wore the rubber out on, are not going to be worn by my grandchildren.
This pattern of me bagging all the clutter up and her unloading it back onto the floor has happened one too many times, so now I know. I declutter when she is out of the house, and make sure it is hauled away before she gets back! Out of site, out of mind. Just the other day her closet got a major face lift when she was at school and she has not mentioned a single thing she thinks is missing.
GIVE THE GIFT OF SPACE!
It’s a great time of year to clean out the closet, get rid of the clutter and open up your space and your home to guests. My entry way and mud room are usually filled with so many coats and shoes, bags and every day items, but as the seasons start to change, I know I need to make room for family and friends. Having open coat hooks, spots in the closet and places to put shoes make guests feel at home and like they aren’t taking up any of your personal space.
If you need help making your clutter disappear, it’s easy with 1-800-GOT-JUNK? All you have to do is point and junk disappears! Not only is 1-800-GOT-JUNK? happy to help, they’ve been a trusted junk removal since 1989!
Here are just a few reasons why I love donating my junk to 1-800-GOT-JUNK? :
They work on your schedule - They come when it's convenient for you.
They do all the heavy lifting - just point and the junk disappears.
The World’s Largest Junk Removal Service
Whenever possible, they donate the donatables, and recycle the recyclables!
When Got Junk has finished helping you declutter, your home will sing a happy song!
Are you planning on doing a renovation? Make sure you take the time to build in energy efficiency and get the most out of your reno. Keep reading to hear all about my personal tips and recommendations for cashing in on Efficiency Nova Scotia’s rebate programs when you are renovating a house!
You might think planning the design of a home is the most intimidating portion of renovations. Surprisingly, it’s actually much more intimidating to figure out how to run the house efficiently. There are so many options for heat sources out there - it’s hard to know where to start!
For my mid-century modern home, my top priorities were efficiency and saving a bit of money. Fortunately, Dave at Acumen Home Assessment was so helpful. He pointed me in a direction that would help me with both. Here are some great ways that I am able to see important savings, both environmentally and financially!
Reimagining Spaces
Space is precious, and as I love to host friends and family, I knew I needed a space for them. As you might have seen in Season 4, I decided to transform my furnace room into a guest bedroom.
I made my home so much more energy efficient by taking out the oil furnace, adding insulation into the attic and installing two mini split heat pumps. Doing this not only saved me energy costs but allowed me to utilise the space so much better.
Making changes like this to your home not only adds visual appeal and utilises the space better, but also helps the environment.
Big Statement, Big Savings
This pink door is not only a statement piece, but due to the materials used during insulation, it also keeps the heat in and the cold out. That might not shock you, but what might is that it came with amazing rebates!
This is what my front door looked like before!
NEED HELP? If you need a little extra help making your home more efficient, my big tip is to book a Home Energy Assessment for someone like Dave to assess your home before doing a home renovation project. Doing this can steer you in a direction you might not have considered before. Energy Advisors know how to help you save on emissions, costs, and your households environmental footprint! It was well worth it to have Dave come by early in the process, and together we came up with a plan to maximize rebates and make my home more energy efficient.
Once I finished the renovation of my property, Dave came back to give me a final home energy assessment. My rebate cheque is in the mail and I am continuing to look for new innovative ways to be eco-conscious in my own home and all other home renovation projects I have on the go.
Instant in-store product rebates
Efficiency Nova Scotia also offers year round in store rebates. Save up to $400 at the checkout and long-term on your energy bill.
Examples of this are:
Washer and Dryers- $75 off per appliance
Dimmer switches- $3 off per unit
Smart Thermostats- up to $100 off
For the full list of in store instant rebates click here:
I hope you are inspired to look for ways to make your home more energy efficient while renovating. Feel free to email me with your questions or watch my Youtube Video below to see the before and after of my efficiency makeover!
We can all do our part to help our planet by being more energy efficient. No effort is too big or too small, so why not start with booking your energy assessment with Efficiency Nova Scotia today!
These Germ Eliminating Fixtures and Hacks are about to change your entire bathroom experience.
This blog was written in partnership with American Standard. All opinions are my own.
There is nothing quite like the feeling of a clean and tidy house! When my home is put together and sparkling from corner to corner, I feel relaxed and ready to tackle whatever comes my way (except spilled milk!). I love getting Lennon involved in chores whenever I can because it’s a great way to teach responsibility and make her feel like she’s an important contributor in caring for our home. It’s me + you kid!
That’s one of the reasons why I love my American Standard sink and accessories. The company produces high-performing fixtures, stylish faucets and sinks, and other wellness products for the bath and kitchen. And, since I’ve been on a cleaning kick lately, their touchless product offerings and clean technology make my life a whole lot easier and my home a whole lot more sanitary! Check out these tried and true cleaning hacks that will save you time, simplify your life, and instantly boost your mood.
• Hack #1•
Clean In Every Corner
If you struggle with cleaning the nooks and crannies around your bathroom and kitchen, you’re not alone. These hard-to-reach crevices can be incredibly frustrating, especially for die-hard cleaning aficionados like us. I’ve come up with an easy hack that will make those tricky areas sparkle faster than you can say “clean as a whistle!”. Wrap a soft cloth around the end of a butter knife to clean the gunk around faucets, vents and other small fixtures. The knife is small enough to get into those tiny corners, and the cloth prevents scratches. They’re the perfect deep cleaning duo in my humble opinion. American Standard sink and accessories
• Hack #2 •
Pearly White Surfaces
The power of a soft-bristled toothbrush goes beyond healthy gums and teeth. Wet the bristles with a mixture of baking soda and water and gently brush over the shower and wall grout. Leave it on for 10 minutes, rinse and voila! Gleaming tiles every time!
• Hack #3 •
When Life Gives You Lemons….
If you hate water spots on your chrome faucets as much as I do, I’ve got you! Cut a lemon in half, rub it all over your faucet, rinse and buff with a soft cloth. Easy, peasy and done in a flash.
• Hack #4 •
Let The Fixtures Clean For You
If there’s one job I hate, it’s scrubbing toilets and I know I’m not alone on this one! The American Standard Everclean surface makes cleaning toilets a cinch!The double-coated surface inhibits the growth of stain and odour-causing bacteria, mold and mildew on the surface, and that means less backbreaking work for this mama! It's like a self-cleaning oven for your bathroom!
• Hack #5 •
Keep Your Hands Out Of It!
My American Standard Studio Carré Undercounter Sink was made for me– someone who loves clean, contemporary lines, but not the maintenance as the EverClean Surface and Technology makes it super easy to keep clean! American Standard understands that dirt and build-up happen, which is why they’ve created the double-coated surface to inhibit the growth of stain and odour-causing bacteria, mold and mildew on the surface. The smooth, mirror-like surface stays cleaner longer, even after years of use, making my life a whole lot easier. I use some vinegar, warm water and buff it with a soft cloth to make it sparkle and that’s as much work that’s required from me. Heaven.
I’ve also become obsessed with American Standard’s Beale Pull-Down Touchless Kitchen Faucet, which features a Selectronic hands-free technology sensor so you can stop and start the water with a simple wave of the hand. The pull-down faucet spray head will also help you reach all regions of your sink with ease, while the sleek and contemporary design is sure to complement any home design perfectly.
• Hack #6 •
Even Your Mirrors Love a Clean Shave
If you have a can of shaving cream lying around, you can kiss foggy, dirty mirrors goodbye- for a couple of weeks anyway! Simply pump some foamy shaving cream onto a soft cloth or paper towel to stop your mirrors from fogging up when you’re in the shower. Who doesn't love a clean reflection?
Designer Rebekah Higgs loves to repurpose and redesign.
If someone told me 2 decades ago that the kitchen would be my favorite room in the house, I would have said, “As if!”, (while watching my favorite movie, Clueless). Back then, hanging out in my bedroom with my girlfriends in tow, talking about our boy troubles while listening to sad tunes, or rummaging through my closet for try-on sessions was how I spent the majority of my time.
Fast forward to being a single mom with a busy 7-year-old daughter, the producer of a TV show featuring our latest renovation and a never-ending list of DIY projects and I can sincerely declare that the kitchen has my heart. Where else can I simultaneously make a grilled cheese sandwich, help Lennon with her homework, and jot down notes on my latest design plan? Did I mention the kitchen/dining room in our new home has the most expansive and breathtaking view of the Bedford Basin? When I say I love my kitchen, I mean….I LOVE my kitchen.
My vision from the very beginning was to design an inviting space that was both functional and stylish. This is the center of our home and that means it needs to work for every member, including @ziggymygirl who has created her very own special nook near the back door. While it’s hard to narrow down my favorite features, there are some that have stood out as fan faves from the very beginning. Interested to know what they are? Keep reading!
A resilient kitchen counter topped the list of absolute must-haves. The Et Statuario Silestone countertop from Cosentino Canada was such a great selection for our family. The anti-scratch and stain surface means I can cook, plan and work without worry, and the velvety touch of the suede finish elevates the entire look. We used the same material for our backsplash to carry the sophisticated aesthetic seamlessly throughout the space and I’m thrilled with how it all came together.
When I saw the 12” round Prospect pendants by Eurofase – blown glass spheres suspended from looped gold metal framework, I knew they were meant for me. This trio sits above my kitchen island and not only provides the perfect ambiance – think lulled, muted light versus bright and blinding, they also add that extra level of urban refinement that takes this entire space up a notch.
My Trinsic Single-Handle Pull-Down Sprayer Kitchen Faucet in Champagne Bronze featuring MagnaTite Docking has been a beautiful addition to this space. The dock keeps the kitchen pull-down spray wand firmly in place with a powerful integrated magnet, so it stays docked when not in use and I love that I can easily remove mineral build-up with the touch of a finger using touch-clean spray holes. It’s worth mentioning, the price point on this little beauty is incredible and the sleek, minimalistic design blends in perfectly with my vibe.
My new Blanco Precis U super sink has come in handy more times than I can count, especially during lockdown when there always seemed to be an influx of dirty dishes to wash. Trust me when I say that the extra large bowl and floating grid will be a kitchen dream come true for that reason alone. It’s easy to clean, non-porous, and heat and scratch-resistant so you never have to think twice about taking extra special care.
A contemporary wall mount pot filler is one of those luxury features you don’t realize you need until…well…you really need it! The Delta pot filler faucet in champagne bronze is a showstopper for several reasons. It’s easy to fill large cooking vessels quickly and without the walk from sink to stove. That may not sound like a big deal, but large water-filled pots can be deceivingly heavy! The dual shut-off valves allow me to turn the water off at either the wall or the spout, which has proven to be incredibly convenient and the beautiful finish adds a touch of old-world charm that makes it irresistible!
I was initially drawn to the pale pink hue and minimalist design of my kitchen island stools, but when I realized how easy it was to wipe and go, I loved them even more. The form-fitting seat makes them ultra comfortable and the contemporary base gives them a sleek, contemporary feel. This design from Wayfair is no longer available, but I’ve linked a similar option here.
One of the biggest showstoppers in my kitchen has to be my Spicer and Co, vinyl floor cloth. In fact, I get asked about it a lot in the run of a day. A high traffic area like the kitchen needs something durable and stain resistant, but I also wanted something comfortable and curated– a nod to my love of vintage style and pink everything. Take it from this DIY mama, if you want something low maintenance without sacrificing beauty, this was made for you.
The coveted Café Appliances in matte white have been in high demand lately and for good reason! The polished finish makes them a designer’s dream, but it’s the added functionality that really sets them apart. My commercial-style range is inspired by professional kitchens and comes with a versatile cooktop that has it all– inspiral and multi-ring burners that evenly heat my cookware, and a caterer’s oven complete with precision cooking modes that make cooking dinners, small or large, a treat.
NDR Auto Solutions came to my rescue in a big way when I found out my refrigerator was on backorder and we were weeks away from filming season 4 of DIY mom. Let’s just say that we couldn’t halt production because of a delayed delivery. The NDR team swooped in with the most genius idea – taking a basic stainless steel refrigerator and wrapping it in white vinyl for a nearly identical finish to my Café Appliances. Confession time: I considered keeping this a secret because the dupe is THAT good, but the premise of my show is learning to find alternatives when things don’t go as planned, and guess what? That’s real life in a nutshell.
I wanted to repurpose the kitchen cabinets from the original house because they were in great shape and the quality was amazing, so I decided to put a modern spin on an old classic. I flipped and sanded the cabinets with my Ryobi tools and varnish from Home Depot, to give them a shaker style finish, then filled the holes, and moved the entire kitchen from the front of the house to the back for an open-concept design. For the island, I used the pre-assembled Hampton Bay Edison shaker style cabinets from Home Depot and had them color-matched to the kitchen cabinets for a streamlined look and feel. Then we added these pretty Contemporary Aluminium Edge pulls from Richelieu. The entire room received a chic and modern facelift– a brilliant way to create style on a budget.
I love looking back to see how my home has been transformed. What do you think of these before and afters?
My ensuite bathroom is my happy place. A little haven that allows me to unwind after a busy day with some basic self- care rituals that have proven to be essential for me. Sometimes, it’s a decadent face mask before bed, other times, a long, lingering, sudsy bath or a quick pep talk in front of my vanity before I start my hectic day and have a lot of fires to put out. Lennon and Ziggy love it too (the heated floors might have something to do with that). It’s a good thing I don’t mind sharing!
I get asked a lot about my favorite features in this space and while it’s hard to narrow them down, I’ve come up with a list of highlights. If you’re considering a bathroom renovation and don’t know where to start, you’ll want to keep reading!
My freestanding soaking tub is by far one of the most celebrated features of this room. It was easy to install, crafted from durable acrylic making it incredibly resilient, and comes in a modern, glossy white finish. The best part however has to be the 63 gallon capacity which makes it nice and spacious– perfect for a relaxing night in.
The mosaic Miki Flower tile in Snow White & Crystal White from Centura Tile was the perfect addition, and what was left over, I used in our pantry. We pieced these Artisan tiles from Centura together like an intricate puzzle for a dazzling backsplash that feels like marble.
It’s no secret that mid century modern is a vibe I gravitate to. That’s one of the reasons love my 72 inch solid teak Coventry Vanity from Home Depot. The minimalist console vibe feels like an extension of my personal style philosophy– sturdy, spacious, simple design with a classic undertone that makes it timeless.
For a streamlined look, I carried my Torly’s Engineered hardwood flooring in Dorset Oak into my ensuite. I love that the warm, matte wood matches the rest of the house and offers clean lines and wide planks for a modern feel.
My Trinsic wall-mounted tub filler in champagne bronze from Delta offers classic, old-world charm and is guaranteed not to corrode, tarnish or discolor. Long-lasting, durable, and chic– that’s my DIY love language! We chose the same finish for our Delta Zura showerhead and handheld pendant, and I love the warm undertones, the added touch of sophistication, and the reminder that every room in the house deserves special attention to detail.
Belisimo Home always has a great selection of high-quality wallpaper. I love that I can take stacks of books home with me, hold them up in various light and sit with them for a while so I can be certain I’ve made the right choice. For my ensuite, I chose a muted style from JF Fabrics’ Bungalow collection– a plain textured wallpaper in a beige hue with metallic gold speckles. I love that it adds warmth and helps create the perfect ambiance for this space.
My custom teak shelves from East Coast Specialty Hardwood provide extra space for storing little trinkets and keepsakes I’ve brought back from my travels. They’re trendy but classic at the same time and they compliment my floors and vanity perfectly.
Finding the perfect pair of mirrors for your ensuite vanity is no small feat. I searched high and low for modern, stylish accent pieces that complimented the space, but offered a custom look at the same time. My Renwil mirrors were the perfect choice! I love the brass finish, decorative hook, and the way they reflect my personal style– swanky and sophisticated with a touch of glam to spice things up.
Simplicity was top of mind when I chose my frameless fixed glass shower screen. The Vigo Zenith model from Home Depot resists dangerous breakage and shards, making it incredibly safe without compromising style. It comes with premium clear seal strips to prevent water from leaking into the bathroom. Genius!
There you have it! A round up of my favorite ensuite features – guaranteed to make your bathroom experience luxurious and relaxing from start to finish!
This blog was written in partnership with Herbal Essences. All opinions are my own.
I’m a busy DIY MOM
I run a production company, tv show, am renovating my home, taking time for some charitable projects AND am a single mom. So in order to make any time for myself, I need all the beauty hacks to save me a few extra minutes here and there. This also means my beauty products must work out of necessity, self care and affordability. The little free time I get to myself, I need to make sure the products I buy are necessary, affordable, and also WORK. Who else can relate to being on-the-go 24/7, with next to no time for getting ready?! Or, struggling to get the right products for you because they’re way out of your price range?
That’s why I’m excited to partner with Herbal Essences on my money saving, beauty & hair care hacks for busy women.
• Hack•
Here are some personal beauty hacks that save me time and money:
Find haircare products that bring out your best, natural hair.
As I said, I’m mostly always on the go. Which means I rarely have time for styling my hair. So, I rely on high-quality hair care products to help nourish my hair – leaving it smooth, silky and soft, without the styling! It’s even better when it’s a low cost option, that doesn’t compromise on quality ingredients and is cruelty free and dermatologist-tested! The Smooth Rose Hips Shampoo & Conditioner from Herbal Essences is a new spin on their classic line-up (and they’ve still kept that iconic scent we know and love!) It leaves my hair feeling restored, nourished and extremely smooth – plus the scent of roses is exquisite! It’s also colour-safe (perfect for my red locks!), mineral-oil free and pH balanced. You really don’t have to compromise on quality ingredients when this comes at such an affordable price. CLICK HERE for a link of where to buy!
Silk Scarves
I’ve recently discovered the magic of wearing a silk scarf in my hair at night. After I have gone through all the trouble of blow drying my hair and curling it, wearing a silk head wrap or scarf extends my blow out for up to 4 days - that adds up to being a huge timesaver as well as a hair strengthener by keeping the heat off my ends a little longer! A great tip to find a silk scarf that works within your budget is to head to your local second hand or consignment shop. Make sure you check the tag- because it’s easy to get fooled by polyester.
No-Beach, Beachy Waves
Since I’m on the go morning to night. I don’t have a lot of extra time for styling my hair. On a typical day I just wash and go- Here is a quick beauty hack you can easily make at home - If you’re feeling beachy, mix a bit of coarse salt with a drop of essential oil and water then spritz it in - towel dry your hair, brush it out and then put it back in a towel and let it set your beachy waves for the day.
Make BB your Bestie.
Did you know you can mix your foundation with moisturizer or sunscreen to create your own BB cream that will give you a glowy fresh no makeup look. It will also save you money by stretching out your foundation. Taking care of your skin is always a money saver so by wearing sunscreen every day and drinking lots of water you will have healthy looking skin for years to come.
Save on Clean up Time by Picking Products that Match your Décor
My final tip is a timesaver- and one that comes from the home décor enthusiast in me. To keep my bathroom looking sweet and ‘insta-ready’, I like to choose products that match my décor- and you all know I’m into those pink touches so Herbal Essences rosy pink bottles incorporate perfectly into my personal style. At an unbeatable price, you can leave the Smooth Rose Hips collection out for the whole family to use!
I’d love to hear your go-to time and money saving hacks – share yours with me by commenting below!
It’s all in the details and my celestial bathroom design has plenty of them, but can you spot them all before I point them out? Here are some tips and tricks you might want to consider if it’s time to revamp your bathroom space.
• Tackling the Issues •
Living in a bungalow means that some spaces may be located in your home’s interior with no windows. To keep my reno on budget, we left all the existing exterior walls and windows as they were, but drastically changed the layout internally. This left me with a bathroom with no natural light. So what do you do when nature isn’t in the space? You bring nature in!
Succulents and Faux Plants
Succulents love the steam of the shower and faux plants don’t need natural light to thrive. This is a great way to give your guests the feeling of freshness when they are in a closed space!
Piano Windows
No natural light? No problem. Installing piano windows into the interior walls of your home is a great way to harmoniously manipulate the light into those darker spaces. The face of my bungalow gets the most enviable light during the day, I figured it could spare a bit where needed! Flowing in from my mudroom and into my bathroom, even the smallest bit of natural light goes a long way.
Wallpaper
Maybe you haven’t thought about putting wallpaper in a bathroom since the 80s - but why not?This Cloud wallpaper from JF Fabrics is not only gorgeous but a truly special way to add a unique touch to any interior space. Why I chose this wallpaper? The quality is top-notch, so it will wipe-down easily and withstand the steam and sweat from the shower. And again because this bathroom is missing a window, this cloud wallpaper gives the illusion of airy lightness. The result is a room that feels light and crisp.
Painted Ceilings
Painting the ceiling to blend into the wallpaper not only carries the eye upwards, but is a playful way to make the peaked tile at the top of the shower pop. I selected Misty Morning by Dulux Paints as the perfect combo of blue and teal for this heavenly space.
Tile Selection
The entire bathroom inspiration started with the Centura Catalogue. I found this image and instantly knew that this is what I wanted to do with the soft and colourful La Riviera Melange Tile. The unfinished peaked top was a fun play on the mountains, but also gives an extra design moment in the space. Easy to tile and even easier on the eyes!
Glass Option
In stead of shower rod and curtain, I opted for an arched glass shield from Vigo .
With no gold hardware options in stock, I grabbed the Rustoleum metal spray paint and gave it a shake. One tact coat, and two additional coats later, I have what I envisioned for this space. An architectural touch that lets the tile design shine through.
The initial layout for my bathroom had the toilet next to the tub. I saw an image of a sink next to the tub on instagram and thought… that is such a better looking photo, why didn’t I think of that? So I made a decision to swap the sink and toilet plumbing. When my original vanity selection arrived, I quickly realized the proportions were too large for the room. I needed a new vanity, and quick so I went to Home Depot in a panic on a Saturday night, hunting for the right vanity. Luckily This Glacier Bay vanity was available, the right size and super affordable at $249 right off the shelf.
The only issue with my off-the-rack vanity was that they hardware it came with was silver when all my accents in this bathroom are brass and gold. A simple search in the Home Depot hardware isle led me to a pleasant discovery. Cloud-shaped nobs!! They’re adorable for this kids’ bathroom and really tie the theme together! These gold Richelieu handles are available at Home Depot and fit the pre-drilled holes in the vanity perfectly, so swapping them was easy.
< The original hardware was silver. I was able to swap them out for a custom look without having to drill new holes.
Gold fixtures from Delta make this full bath feel luxurious.
Round Mirror and Pop Culture Round Bulbs
The Aspyn Bath & Vanity from Mitzi are an affordable option with a modern twist. I enjoy the way the round mirrors and the round lights with aged brass touches work together to reflect this cohesive design.
Design trends come and go but one thing always remains, our need for personalized functional style. Check out our list of what’s on its way out in 2021, and what’s making a grand entrance.
Grey’s Anatomy Is Out! A combination of grey and beige, affectionately known as greige, has been designers color of choice for more than a decade. Celebrated for its ability to blend in while also providing a respite from boring builders white, this standard neutral has gone from being a chic, timeless color choice, to a humdrum basic. Bye bye greige, hello pastels!
Let Your True Colors Shine This year is all about integrating pops of color for interest and vibrancy. Paneled walls in navy, seamless room transitions and curated wall murals, eclectic art collections and moody, layered fabrics all add relevance and charm. We can’t wait to see this trend come to life.
Nature Calls 2021 will continue to see the integration of home and environment. Lush, indoor gardens, natural wood cabinets and organic accents like rattan and wicker will continue to pave the way for ambient décor that takes its cue from Mother Nature herself.
A Nod to Mid Mod This year, we’re channeling our inner Don Draper and propelling forward with sleek lines, curvy edged furniture and a classic, unassuming aesthetic for that coveted 1950’s vibe. We’ll see the continual quest for wood, metal, vinyl and glass with strong, geometric art and bold textiles taking center stage.
Modern Scandinavian There’s a reason we see this soft, minimalist style reemerge every year. We’re drawn to uncluttered environments with muted, pastel hues, warm textures and organic materials like wood and hemp. The hallmark of Nordic style is functional simplicity with an emphasis on comfort and innovation, and 2021 will be no exception. Watch this design trend soar with the rebirth of home offices and the need for integrated spaces
The Office Last year saw the fast and furious collision of personal and professional spaces, with more people setting up makeshift offices at home. This year will pave the way for distinct separation of home and work life, comprehensive storage solutions, meticulous organization and shelving options that are sleek and functional. The home office is here to stay so it’s time to step up your décor game and make this little corner functional and stylish.
The White House White is white, right? Wrong. With a clear nod to cozy comfort, 2021 will see the rise of warm white tones and the exit of the stark, cool shades we leaned on in the past. We’re crushing on Linen Ruffle by Glidden, a soft, gentle off-white that adds depth without being overpowering. Pro tip: Try painting your trim and crown molding 1-2 shades darker for a warm contrast that adds just enough oomph.
It’s All About You Eclectic design will replace rustic and refined palettes. Shiplap wall features will make way for wallpaper and bold accent walls. We’ll step into brass hardware, crisp, modern lighting, linear, monochrome backsplash and tile work. The modern farmhouse vibe we’ve known and loved will start to dissipate and we’ll see the rise of majestic, personal styles, curated and unique to each of us. Who’s ready to own it?
Are you in quick crunch for some last minute seasonal decor?
Here is something better than a Pumpkin Spice Latte to quench your seasonal cravings, no carving necessary. Cinderella Style Fabric Pumpkins are a super easy and fun DIY! “Pump-n-Spice” up any space with these adorably cozy cushions. Luckily you can make these Cinderella style pumpkins on a Cinderella style budget!
• SUPPLIES •
These cushy pumpkins can be made from any spare fabric that you may have laying around the house. Whether it be from a previous project or simply an old sweater… lovingly repurposing clothing is a great way to give it a whole new life! — Quite magical indeed Cinderelly. Now go gather the supplies!
FABRIC
SCISSORS
COTTON BATTING
NEEDLE & THREAD
GLUE GUN
POT LID (or something circular to trace)
• STEPS •
Trace & Cut A Circle From Your Fabric:
You can do this using a pot lid, like the true innovateure herself. The bigger you cut the circle, the larger your pumpkin will be. Have fun creating multiple sizes and shapes for some variation in your decor.
Sew A “Slip Stitch” Around The Circumference Of The Circle:
Keep about a 1/4” away from the edge— that way you don’t risk ripping the gathered thread through the fabric. Pro Tip: You can keep your thread attached to the spool to ensure that you never run out of thread until finished.
Stuff Your Pumpkin:
Now that you’ve got your slip stitch in place, it’s time to stuff that pumpkin with cotton batting. If you find yourself short, there are plenty of alternatives that you can use! News paper, rice or repurpose an old stuffed animal. Note:If you are aiming for the cinderella style, less stuffing is best to achieve their flatter silhouette.
Cinch Your Citrouille (Pumpkin):
With your pumpkin now stuffed, cinch the two loose threads together by pulling them tightly and creating a gathered hole. Note:DO NOT tie off or rip off your threads yet! You’ll need them for the next step.
Create The Cinderella Style:
Hold your pumpkin in one hand with the hole facing upward. With the attached needle and thread in the other hand, sew through the centre of the pumpkin then wrap the thread around to create segments. Continue to puncture through the centre to create that Cinderella style. When you have achieved your desired shape, tie off that thread or sew a knot in the fabric to finish.
Stylish Stems:
To top off your perfect pumpkin, it’s time to get creative with the stem! I opted for some leftover cork fabric that I had, which I then cut into strips, rolled then glue to the top using the hot glue gun. Note: You can use anything to create the stems— Pipe cleaners, twine, twigs, rubber bands! Get crafty & get creating this Autumn.
Now that you’ve got the Bippity Boppity Boo of it all, you can make enough pumpkins to fill an entire patch! (Granted, such a project would be much easier if you did happen to have a joyous army of furry critters to assist you…) Never the less, It’s time to head to the Fall Ball!
• Styling Your Creations •
Now that you’re knee deep in your custom made pumpkin patch, what do you do with them all?
Styling your pumpkins and working them into your home decor is half of the fun! This DIY craft is truly versatile, especially if you play it smart with your fabric choices. Sticking with neutrals will allow you to place your pumpkins in any space and give an overall “oomph” to your autumnal ambiance. If you chose to work with bolder & brighter patterns, you are sure to have some spirited standout pieces that will really transform a space!
String together your pumpkins with twine or yarn to create a garland. These garlands are perfect for hanging in windows, doorways and make an excellent focal point for your fireplace (then use the spares to really bulk up the mantle.)
Toss all your pumpkins into a complimentary dish and stick them on your dining room table for an exciting centrepiece. Sprawl differing sizes and styles along the table for a graphic effect.
No matter which way you style these adorable little pumpkins they are sure the please <3
My daughter Lennon really loves unicorns, well really who doesn’t! They are magical, colourful and make everyone smile. When I began my renovation Lennon had an idea. She wanted a large Unicorn Head on the wall. Her idea seemed to come out of left field.
I started looking at buying a unicorn online and quickly thought… hmmm…. I bet I could make one myself. So I looked up how to make Papier-mâché and discovered it was quite simple and that I had everything I needed to make something right here at home!
Spring is in the air. The days are longer and I am finding myself motivated to clean and freshen up our home. It’s been a while since I have photographed the main floor living space of my home, and I need to update my Air BNB listing. So I am sharing some of the changes I’ve made around the house in the last few months.
I some of you who follow me on instagram might know. I finally got the dining room set of my dreams last November. The Taos Harvest Table and Benches from homefurniture.com has really changed the look of my dining room.
I was also gifted a new rug for this room from Loloi Rugs. It is very soft and plush and I love the look of it with the modern table.
When I was getting my house ready for The Homes for the Holidays show (this was when 1500 people came through my house to see my Christmas decor to raise money for the YWCA) I moved some of my furniture down to the basement. I decided to move the small leather sofa that was in the dining room and replace it will this simple console I found for $50. It makes the room feel less cramped and gives me extra space for my plants!
I took a few of the flowers from my Christmas mantle display and the beaded garland from my tree and made a little arrangement for my coffee table with them. Because the theme for my Christmas decor was wood, fire and roses (I decorated with gold and blush pink) so I’m able to make some of my decor work in other ways throughout the year.
There are a few other bloggers who are also sharing their home’s this spring. If you are looking for more inspiration check out:
The old wood panelling had to go, to bring new life and light into this home! See my amazing kitchen transformation and how i selected the finishings for this space.
A staircase transformation with some major personality. I created a welcoming entrance to my home using sentimental art pieces and a Moroccan flavoured runner.