BrandSource Canada Blog – Page 3

January 25, 2020

Furniture Ideas for Small Space Living

Downsizing, or choosing small space living for a more sustainable lifestyle is a great opportunity to use functional décor to maximize your space and your life. You don’t have to sacrifice your style just because you live in a small space. Whether it’s an apartment, condo, tiny home, or renovated 50’s bungalow; your space can still reflect your own style without looking cramped or cluttered

When it comes to thinking about your small space living it’s all about maximizing it; maximizing storage, functionality, and most importantly enjoyment.

Here are some tips to help you:

Small Space Living Tip #1: Look Inside

Adding storage to a sofa chaise, under a fabulous upholstered bedframe, built into a coat rack, and using storage ottomans concealing couch blankets and reading materials; all make small spaces ‘do’ more by making furniture do double duty. How can we forget baskets? Used for everything from mittens at the front door, to laundry, to plants; a basket (or ten) can help keep your space organized and clutter free.

Small Space Living Tip #2: Look Up

The best tip for maximizing small space living is to look up. Use your walls and get creative with how your space can offer you more by taking advantage of the vertical space. Shelving is a great way to add storage and display your favourite things. Look for tall shelving units with drawers at the bottom; or try adding some floating shelves above your sofa or above the tub.

Small Space Living Tip #3: Look Under

Condo sofas, loveseats, and accent chairs all make for great small space living room furniture. To maximize them even more, look for furniture you can ‘look under’ with minimal legs and giving the pieces a sense of ‘floating’. Items with a mid-century modern feel work well for this.

Small Space Living Tip #4: Look Twice

A bar cart on wheels, the small space entertainers’ best friends. Used as a side table in the living room, a bar cart can easily be wheeled around the house for use during dinner parties and events. Cocktail tables with lift tops work well too. Look for furniture that makes you look at it twice, because it works two (or more) ways depending on your needs. What about a kitchen island on wheels? One minute it’s a kitchen island helping you chop and prep, the next it’s moved into a corner to serve as the self-serve taco station or bar during a dinner party.

Small Space Living Tip #5: Look at Your Reflection

A great way to add the feeling of space to is to add mirrors. Tuck a floor length mirror into a corner to make the room pop, or add one to a cramped laundry room to add more light. Add a mirror on your open shelving or as a show stopping centre piece above the fireplace. Reflecting your space and the light helps your room feel larger and gives a feeling of airiness.

Find more tips and advice on furniture and home décor on our blog.

Rebecca, Your Furniture Expert

January 25, 2020

2020 Top Four Home Décor Trends to Follow

The start of a New Year is a great time to recharge your body and revamp your home. The year 2020 has brought some inspiring home décor trends, and unlike where we thought we’d be in Back to the Future, these trends look to the use of bold colours, to nature, to functionality, and look to a sustainable future for our planet.

We’ve narrowed our list to our top four home décor and interior design trends that we’re seeing in 2020 with easy ways to incorporate them into your home. Your next dinner party will be a feast for the eyes as your guests enjoy all the small updates you’ve made to your home.

Our top four interior décor and design trends for 2020:

1. Bold Colours

Out is the all-white kitchen and in for 2020 (and we’ve seen this coming for a while) is bold use of colour in the kitchen. A classic, but on trend look is incorporating Pantone’s Colour of the Year “Blue Classic” into the lower cabinets, or painting the entire centre island this bold blue or any other colour, including black.

Bold use of colour is also appearing in fully wrapped powder rooms and laundry rooms, jammed with maximalist style from head to toe with bold and colourful floral wallpapers, eclectic artwork, and luxe lighting. The maximalist style brings together eclectically curated collections, bold use of colour and patterns, and weaves in fabric, textures, and layers to bring it all together. The maximalist style lets you celebrate your life, your journeys, and your happiness with your home décor.

Source: Houzz

Another bold use of colour we’re seeing for 2020 is painting doors. Just like the disappearing all-white kitchen so too disappears the all-white door and trim combination. Black doors are all the rage and so are graphically colour blocked doors.

2. Bringing the Outside In

Source: Houzz

Sustainability is nothing new, but for 2020 we’re seeing this statement move even further into interior design. Plants (real ones, not faux) have continued to rise in popularity, and we’re seeing designers incorporate plant walls, and indoor gardens in much more deliberate ways.

The outside is also inspiring a huge rise in popularity of floral prints and patterns. Taking a cue from the Victorian age, the modern take is incorporating big bold florals, in any way possible including on bedding, on walls using wallpaper or hand painted murals, and in accent pillows, rugs, and even large abstract floral artwork.

We’re also seeing natural fabrics (linen sheets anyone?) and textiles like Vienna Straw being used in furniture like headboards, dining chairs and more. Natural baskets used as a planter for your houseplants are the perfect way to embrace this trend.

Source: Rededition

Our need for more sustainability and the desire to incorporate the outside inside our homes, has ushered in a new wave of biophilia design, with designers increasingly focused on using more natural elements, recycled elements, and making the connection between outside and inside more tactile, integrated, and thoughtful.

3. Functionality First

A big trend for 2020 is about making things work, making them function for your space, and for the environment. With an increase in tiny homes, and smaller (but still stylish!) living spaces the need for multi-functional furniture has never been greater. Designers are answering the call with items like ottomans with lids for storage, under bed storage, and dining tables that work for two and eight. But it’s also about making functional choices for the environment. Doing the research, buying products made closer to home, buying quality products that will stand the test of time are all going to be increasingly part of our home décor decisions.

4. Back is Black

Source: Houzz

Black is back, baby! But did it really ever leave? We’re seeing black back with a vengeance this Spring in home décor. Black has been popping up more and more in the kitchen with black metal accents like faucets and kitchen cupboard pulls and handles.

Black is making its comeback in paint (think entirely black dining rooms with luxe wood dining table and statement chairs), in mixing metals (this is big for kitchens and bathrooms alike), and even black furniture. We mentioned black doors above, and we see don’t see this bold trend stopping anytime soon. Want to try incorporating a little more matte black into your home? Update kitchen drawer pulls with a matte black spray paint.

Need more advice on furniture and home décor? Visit our blog to find ton of ideas and information on both.

Rebecca, Your Furniture Expert

January 25, 2020

5 Delicious Meals to Make With Your Microwave

From extra work on your plate to hockey practice running late, some days, making a meal from scratch just isn’t in the cards. On days like that, your handy dandy microwave comes to the rescue!

The plastic-wrapped TV dinners of the 50s and 60s may have given microwave meals a bad rap, but these days there are plenty of ways to make healthy and delicious food using just your microwave. That’s especially true if you have one of the latest Bosch microwave models, which come bundled with convection technology for not just microwaving, but full on cooking! But even if you have a standard microwave, there are plenty of filling meals you can whip up in a snap without worrying about preheating and preparation. Here are just a few of our favourites!

1. Salmon Dinner

Who says you can only make simple dishes in the microwave? Sometimes a single small entrée isn’t enough to conquer your hunger after a long day — but just because you’re short on time doesn’t mean you have to leave home to dine! This delicious salmon dish is case in point. It’s tasty, classy, something you wouldn’t be ashamed to serve on a first date, and all it takes is a few minutes in the microwave. It even includes a side of potatoes, for an extra satisfying meal!

2. Mug Mac & Cheese

All the delicious taste of mac and cheese made even faster than the boxed stuff! You can prepare your very own homemade mac in just five minutes, with the help of your microwave and your favourite mug. Use shells, elbows, even penne if you’re feeling brave — your favourite pasta can quickly turn into a tasty and filling meal in no time at all.

3. Parmesan Herb Spaghetti Squash

Healthy, delicious, AND simple as all get out — don’t mind if we do! Spaghetti squash is the perfect easy meal, and it can be made to suit any special diet in your household! This particular recipe is already both vegetarian and gluten free, but it can even be made vegan by swapping out the parmesan with cashew-based cheese flavouring. However, you choose to prepare it, this dish is flavourful as it is quick to make, so you can enjoy a delicious meal no matter how busy you are.

4. Mug Omelette

Breakfast time becoming a bummer? Make the most of your mornings with this easy mealtime solution!

Nothing beats food made in a mug for ease, simplicity, and pure kitsch, and this easy mug omelette might be the best of them all. It’s a healthy, nearly oil-free way to make your favourite breakfast that tastes lighter, fresher, and more delicious than ever. AND it’s done in all of two minutes. Two! With next to no cleanup besides rinsing off the mug you ate out of, this little dish is a winner all around.

5. Microwave Jambalaya

If you like a little kick to your meals, this microwave jambalaya is just the thing! Spicy and savoury with a little bit of sweet corn, jambalaya is a tasty and satisfying dish no matter how it’s made — but the fact that this recipe is so simple is certainly a mark in its favour! Jambalaya is a bit more time-consuming than some of the recipes we’ve featured, but it’s still a perfect option for students or people without access to a traditional stovetop and oven, who still want the comfort of a top-quality, home-cooked meal.

Your microwave is a lot more versatile than it gets credit for — so make the most of it! These delicious dishes are sure to satisfy any night of the week, and best of all, the prep time fits into even the busiest schedules. But if you want to get even more out of your mealtimes, maximize the flavour of your food, and save even more time, you might want to think about upgrading your microwave.

At our store, you can find microwaves that do everything from reheat to brown to braise. If your oven can do it, so can these microwaves! Doesn’t that sound convenient? Make your mealtimes more flexible with the help of a great microwave at a great price — all thanks to your favourite local appliance store!

Shop microwaves now!

Amanda, Your Appliance Expert

January 25, 2020

Ever Wonder What a Samsung Dishwasher Looks Like During a Cycle?

Source: Bill Roberson/Digital Trends

It’s hard to believe your kitchen appliances aren’t magical wizards cooking and cleaning behind closed doors – especially when it comes to your dishwasher. These clean machines take the grossest, greasiest food explosions off your dishware, without you being able to see it happen.

Well, if you’ve been wondering just how your dishwasher cleans, disinfects, dries, and more, then we’ve got just the video for you. You’ll get to experience the world through the lens of a GoPro and see how your dishes go from disgusting to spotless in a matter of moments.

Are you now a believer in the power of the dishwasher? As you can tell, dishwashers get the job done without you having to put much work into it. When you’re running a load, avoid rinsing off your dishes first, period. Just set all the plates, silverware, cups, and more inside, and let your dishwasher handle the rest. You’ll never have to wonder if it’s working or not again! But, if your current dishwasher isn’t cleaning your dishes well, drop in to our store to get a Samsung dishwasher that can powerfully scrub your dishes like the one in the video!

And while it may look like your dishwasher is using too much water, don’t be fooled! Washing dishes by hand is actually more wasteful than washing your dishes in the dishwasher. On average, cleaning your dishes in the sink uses up to 27 gallons of water per load while dishwashers, and Energy Star certified ones use a lot less.

Now that you know how thoroughly dishwashers clean dishes behind closed doors, why would you ever spend another moment washing them by hand, wasting water and your time? Stop the madness by visiting us today and you’ll get to check out our large selection of Samsung appliances and many other name brand dishwashers. If you need help deciding, we’ll be here to guide you through your dishwasher buying journey, making sure you know everything about your new and not-so-mysterious-anymore appliance.

Shop Samsung Dishwashers Now

Amanda, your Appliance Expert

January 24, 2020

How to Remove Scratches From Stainless Steel

Warning:
*Before attempting to repair your stainless steel appliance yourself, consult your local store or a stainless steel restoration specialist.
**Make sure your appliance is made of stainless steel (a magnet should not stick to it).
***At no time is BrandSource responsible for any damage you may cause to your appliance by following these instructions.

Stainless steel is favoured for its sleek look and durability. It’s an excellent choice for cookware, kitchen appliances, sinks, fixtures, and other items around the house and workplace. Unfortunately, whether it’s a microwave, dishwasher or refrigerator, stainless steel can become scratched.

You don’t have to live with scuffed up steel forever, though! Follow these simple steps to remove scratches or scrapes on your stainless-steel appliances. One thing to keep in mind: Be sure to only apply these techniques on stainless steel that does not have a clear protective coat or synthetic surface applied.

Fine Scratches

To remove fine scratches, cleaners such as Comet, Revere Stainless Steel, and Copper Cleaner can be used to gently buff stainless steel. If you can’t find any of those, appliance manufacturers often make their own cleaners that are easy to find at home improvement stores. Minor scratches can also be concealed with the use of a stainless-steel polish. Unfortunately, you must reapply the polish on a frequent basis to keep your products looking great, but this may be the best method for appliances covered with protective film.

Deep Scratches

Deeper scratches, meet your match: Sandpaper. A piece of wet fine-grit sandpaper can be used to remove deeper scratches. Make sure to always keep it wet, and follow up with a rubbing compound.

Start with the scratch and then blend it in. Determine the direction of the grain and start sanding in one direction only, following the brushed pattern. Don’t sand back and forth and NEVER sand against the grain. If you need to use a courser-grit paper to remove deeper scratches, follow up with a finer grit, and then finally a rubbing compound.

The sanding technique only works on plain (uncoated) stainless steel panels: Don’t try it on simulated stainless steel or stainless panels with a fingerprint-resistant clear coat.

Clean and Polish

After removing scratches and unwanted marks, you can then clean and polish your stainless-steel appliance. With a clean microfibre cloth, wipe down the newly sanded surface. This will remove sanding and metal dust, as well as leftover polishing compound or water. Even when you’re cleaning, it’s also important to rub and buff in the direction of the grain.

For best results, spray the surface of the metal with several sprays of vinegar, and then pull out another clean microfibre cloth to wipe the metal. The vinegar will clean the surface and remove all traces of other compounds and cleaners.

Once the stainless steel is clean and dry, start polishing. Apply a few drops of oil to a clean microfibre cloth. You can use mineral oil, vegetable oil, or even olive oil. Rub the cloth against the steel, in the direction of the grain, to polish the metal. Add more oil as necessary. Continue rubbing until the entire surface has been polished.

Stainless steel has a beautiful finish and following these steps will ensure your stainless-steel surface remains scratch free, while bringing out that brand-new shine that you fell in love with in the first place.

Amanda, Your Appliance Expert

January 24, 2020

The Best Way to Clean Your Whirlpool Oven

We know that cleaning your appliances never sounds like a fun job, but it’s something that just must get done – especially when it comes to washing your Whirlpool oven. If you don’t wash your oven, you will begin to see a buildup of dirt, food marks, and other residues stuck all over the interior. If it’s not cleaned out, the bacteria ridden oven will likely pass on to new food every time you put something in the oven. Taking the time to clean your oven when it’s dirty will prevent issues in the future while also ensuring your oven continues to perform correctly.

Instead of grabbing an all-purpose cleaner from under your kitchen sink where all your other chemical cleaners are, we’re taking you on a natural route to disinfect your Whirlpool oven. The fewer chemicals you use, the better. Try using these simple yet effective ingredients to kick the grime out and leave the interior of your oven with sparkle.

Ingredients:

1 Cup Baking Soda
1/3 Cup Water
Vinegar
Essential Oil (optional)

Instructions:

Add the baking soda, water and drops of essential oil into a bowl and mix it up. Once it looks blended well, you’ll want to remove the grates from inside your Whirlpool oven. Then, have at it! Use a sponge, toothbrush, or whatever you feel comfortable with to start scrubbing the cleaning concoction throughout the oven’s interior. Be sure to get all the nooks and crannies, as well as the inside window.

A good time to start this cleaning spree would probably be at night, giving it many hours to thoroughly soak while you sleep. You can do this at any time of the day, but let your cleaning mixture soak for at least a good 8 hours to do the job efficiently.

When morning comes, put your vinegar in a small spray bottle, and spray everywhere inside your oven. Give your vinegar about 10 minutes to mix with the baking soda blend. If you don’t want your oven to smell of vinegar, put a few drops of essential oil in the vinegar spray bottle to help mask the odour. Then use your sponge and some water to wipe everything up. You may still need to scrub some tough food stains, but for the most part, everything should slide off like butter!

AquaLift Self-Clean Feature

Cleaning your oven is an easy chore, especially with this recipe from ingredients you can generally find in your kitchen cupboards. Not to mention, the results make the oven look almost new! If you don’t feel you have time to give your oven a deep cleaning, some Whirlpool ovens have the AquaLift self-cleaning feature to help you out. All it needs is 50 minutes to give you a chemical and odour-free cleaning. This is perfect for those days you’re in a hurry and just can’t spend 8 hours cleaning your wall oven.

Visit us in store to check out our Whirlpool ranges and wall ovens and discover more of their helpful features!

Amanda, Your Appliance Expert

January 24, 2020

How a Tempur-Pedic Mattress Can Alleviate Arthritis and other Pains

The weather is getting chillier, which means everything is about to start hurting. It’s true that when the weather changes, sometimes it affects our body and has a tendency to make certain, tender joints feel a little rusty. When arthritis starts acting up, finding ways to soothe the pain can be exhausting.

But, sometimes the answer to soothing the pain has been right there all along. We’ve just been laying on it. That’s right, with the right bed, your aches and pains could be on their way to feeling better.

If you’re looking to get relief from arthritic pain, a Tempur-Pedic bed has the ability to help you out there. Find out why people have been choosing Tempur-Pedic as their go to mattress when their dealing with this and other harsh body pains.

The Arthritis Foundation Approves

The American Arthritis Foundation conducted a study on various people suffering from arthritis and found that 75 percent of those participants believed that Tempur-Pedic mattresses helped support painful and stiff joints. Many of the people who were part of the study recommended others afflicted by arthritis to use a Tempur-Pedic mattress in hopes that it would help alleviate their pain as well.

The Material Was Created For NASA

Can you imagine being inside a hot, muggy spaceship without any way to cool down? Or being exceptionally cold on your way to the moon?

When Tempur material first became big, it was being used to cushion astronauts on rockets in the 1990s. The special foam, which was created by NASA, has been proven to help with a number of things, one being temperature. The Tempur-Pedic material worked in a way to help regulate the rocketeers’ bodies so they weren’t overcome with heatstroke or hypothermia. This applies to your mattress as well: You won’t be having sleepless, sweaty nights or craving more covers.

And if there’s anything people with arthritis need, it’s a bed that will gently support all your joints so you’re not putting too much weight on one body part. The Tempur-Pedic material was also used to assist with controlling the impact intensity and pressure, which helps this mattress conform to your body in a way that will disperse your weight evenly throughout the bed.

Don’t Believe Us? Read the Reviews!

If research and facts aren’t enough, here are some reviews off Tempur-Pedic.com from current Tempur-Pedic Mattress owners that have felt that their Tempur bed gave relief to their bodies aches and pains.

“Has changed the way I recover as an elite athlete!!”

“Everyone needs a Tempur-Pedic mattress! As a Team USA figure skater, recovery is a HUGE part of my life. This includes proper amount of sleep. Before I was sleeping on a mattress that I had had since middle school. In the past year I had noticed that I was having trouble falling asleep, getting too hot while I slept, and waking up with a sore back or not feeling refreshed. As soon as I started sleeping on my Tempur-Pedic mattress I noticed that I had more energy in the morning, I didn’t feel as sluggish. This mattress adapts and conforms to my unique weight, shape, and temperature. It’s pretty amazing what a good quality mattress can do for your life!”

“Hands down a winner!”

“I had back surgery 8 years ago, the mattress supports me when I change position at night and my night pains are gone. Look, I always kept a pillow under my legs at night because by morning I was jumping in pain with spasms. now with adjusting the bed heights and raising the mattress by my legs no more spasms. In fact, my whole body is very relaxed the next morning and I like that. This mattress and adjustable frame is worth every penny spent giving me peace of mind to pay off this expense over time.”

Finding a bed that can help you get some relief when it comes to your arthritis and other pains doesn’t have to be hard, especially when there is evidence suggesting Tempur-Pedic beds have helped people in the past. Stop by our store to speak with a sales associate and give our Tempur-Pedics a test drive. You’ll soon get what everyone is talking about.

Angela, Your Sleep Expert

January 23, 2020

Top 5 Sleep Goals to Have For 2020

What’s on your New Year’s resolutions list? Is it eating healthier, or cutting down on screen time? Maybe you want to take more walks or learn how to juggle. Well, how about getting a better night’s sleep?

The new year is the time for improving your habits and setting goals, so don’t leave your sleep out of the equation! A good night’s rest is crucial for having the energy to achieve all your other goals, and adjusting your sleep habits. Strive for these five sleep goals in 2020 and you’ll be feeling more rested every morning, and have the energy to take on all the other feats you want to accomplish this year.

1. Get up at the same time every day

It can be tempting to doze the day away on your days off, but when Sunday night comes around again and you’re left tossing and turning all night, those sleepy afternoons just won’t seem worth it. Challenge yourself to get up at the same time every day, whether you have work or not. Waking and sleeping at the same time every day makes it much easier to fall asleep, and helps your body make the most of the sleep it’s getting. Those first few early morning weekends will be tough, but trust us, your body will thank you in the long run!

2. Say goodbye to screens

You might think you’re helping yourself relax and unwind when you spend an hour binge-watching “Friends” before laying down your head to sleep, but screen time can have a seriously negative effect on your sleep health.

Checking your phone, watching TV, or surfing the net within 30 minutes of going to bed can all make it harder to fall asleep, and lead to more disrupted sleep once you get there. This is because the blue light emitted by all these screens can suppress melatonin production and keep your mind active late into the night. So, ditch the laptops and cell phones and replace your fancy digital clock with a vintage analog one (yes, even the screen on your clock can harm your sleep). After a few weeks of keeping your bedroom a screen-free zone, you’ll be sleeping better than ever.

Shop Beautyrest Mattresses Now

3. Set a regular routine

Your brain is a creature of habit – even without being told, your mind will start to make connections when you repeat the same activities over and over. If you have trouble getting to sleep at a reasonable time, try setting up a routine that tells your body it’s time to sleep. Maybe that includes a few minutes of yoga or a glass of warm milk as you read a book – whatever you decide on, if you do it the same way, at the same time every night, your brain will start to get the message that it’s time to sleep.

4. Ditch the drinks

Alcohol and caffeine are definite no-nos before bedtime. The dangers of caffeine when you’re trying to sleep should be self-evident, but some people swear by their evening “night cap.” Alcohol before bed can reduce your time spent in deep (or REM) sleep. So you might be able to get to sleep faster, but you won’t be sleeping as deeply, and you’ll wake up feeling less rested than you would otherwise.

It’s a good idea to limit your intake of ANY fluids for about an hour or two before bedtime, and be sure to go to the bathroom before you get too comfortable in bed. If you’re getting up to use the toilet every other hour you’re just not going to feel as rested when morning comes around.

5. Get a new mattress

Good sleep starts with a solid foundation, and without a comfortable mattress that supports you just right, you can forget about a good night’s rest, no matter how many goals you set. The Better Sleep Bureau says your mattress should be replaced every five to seven years, so if your current mattress is becoming a little worse for wear, it might be time to invest in a comfy, new mattress that supports your sleep every night.

A good mattress should provide plenty of support for your neck and back, while making you feel like you’re floating on a cloud. There is no one “right” type of mattress, so come try them all out and see what works best for you. We have a great selection of every kind of mattress you can imagine, from king to twin, plush to firm, pillowtop to memory foam. The choice is yours! And when you invest in a great new mattress from our store, all your 2020 sleep goals will feel that much closer.

Shop Beautyrest Mattresses Now

Angela, Your Sleep Expert

December 12, 2019

4 Minimalist Home Decor Tips

Are you a “less is more” kind of home decorator? Do you prefer a house with a place for everything and everything in its place — preferably hidden out of sight? Then minimalism might be the style you’re looking for!

A minimalist design aesthetic creates a sense of peace and order by minimizing visual (and actual) clutter, but there’s more to it than just white walls and sharp edges. When some people think of “minimalism” they often think of dull, drab, and stark. Done right, however, minimalism can feel as cozy and personal as any other style. All you’ll need is the right furniture, the perfect decor, and a few tips for pulling the look together.

Think Clean Lines

Straight edges and symmetrical curves in furniture, patterns, and art are a hallmark of minimal design. You won’t often see tufted cushions or elaborate scrollwork in minimalist spaces, so when selecting furniture, seek out basic shapes and unadorned edges. Contemporary, mid-century modern, and Scandinavian-styled furniture is all well suited to the style.

Limit Your Colour Palette

When picking everything from the paint colour to the sofa to your wall art, a limited colour palette is key to reducing visual clutter and maintaining a clean, minimalist design.

That doesn’t have to mean making your whole home boring black and white — shades of cream, blue-grey, olive green, and yellow all add some life to a minimalist home, while maintaining a clean, reserved look. Try combining a coffee-coloured couch with some blue pillows, or adorning a coffee table of pale wood with a green vase or bowl set. There are plenty of ways to incorporate colour while keeping your palette clean and simple!

Shop Signature Design Furniture

Play with Texture

The trick with minimalism is retaining visual interest without contributing to visual clutter. One way to do this is by using textures to your advantage.

Slatted walls, vaulted ceilings, macramé rugs, and faux fur throw blankets all infuse some life and excitement into your space without compromising the carefully tailored look you’re going for. Soft textiles can also help make the clean lines and sharp edges that often go with minimalist styles from feeling too severe.

Get the Details Right

In a traditional-styled home, you might be able to get away with displaying any old photos or trinkets and calling your decor complete. In a minimalist home, though, decorations require a little more thought.

Decor is the key to making your furniture come together cohesively, while adding hints your own personal taste. Plants, unique art, sculpture, and statement tableware all introduce a special warmth and flavour to a space. Black metalwork and potted plants are definitely on trend, with the industrial edge of metal and the soothing, natural vibe of plant life combining into something both elegant and comfortable. Try some framed black and white photography, or perhaps a statement sculpture that falls into your colour palette. Minimizing quantity and maximizing visual impact is the way to go when decorating for a minimalist style.

Minimalism can be a great way to take back control over a messy home or shift your focus back to the things you do in your home and the people who live there, not the stuff you own. For furniture, decor, and even more tips on how to make the most of a minimalist design aesthetic, stop by our store. We have everything you need to give your home the fresh perspective it needs, and all the know-how to help you plan a style that feels both comfortable and clean.

Shop Signature Design Furniture

Alex, Your Furniture Expert

December 6, 2019

Tips to Help Kids Sleep During the Hectic Holidays

Holiday travel, hordes of people in and out of the house all day, irregular sleeping and waking times – these are all things that can throw anyone’s sleep schedule out of whack. But kids, who tend to need more sleep and have more trouble than adults getting it, can be especially affected.

Yes, the holidays are lots of fun, but the schedule shake-ups and change of scenery can make bedtime a real nightmare. But it doesn’t have to be that way! There are plenty of ways to minimize stress and maximize sleep for your little ones no matter the time of year, so try these tips to keep your kids’ sleep on track during the hectic holiday season.

Stick to a Schedule

If you’re travelling to a new time zone for more than a day or two, it’s important to get kids adjusted to local time as soon as possible. If kids sleep in until noon and stay up until they feel sleepy, you’re going to be stuck wrestling restless little ones into bed long after midnight during your whole vacation. Nip it in the bud and get the kids used to the new schedule ASAP!

Even if you’re not travelling, it can be easy to fall into an “anything goes” kind of bedtime schedule with all the excitement of visitors and activities. Regardless of the holiday thrills each day has to offer, getting the kids to stick closely to their usual evening routine can help bedtime go much more smoothly.

Prepare Ahead of Time

On a related note, sticking to a schedule is often more easily said than done, so if you can, adjusting kids slowly during the week leading up to your big travel plans can be a big help. Putting them to bed 15 to 30 minutes earlier each night will reduce the shock to their system and help get them on track faster.

Bring Pieces of Home

If your little one is sleeping in a strange bed, it can be helpful to bring along some things that remind them of home and put them at ease. Blankets, toys, or even a pillowcase that still smells like their bedroom can all make new surroundings not seem quite so scary. Whatever you bring, the comfier the better. Be sure to stop in to our store and pick up a comfy new pillow to help your little ones get cozy in their unfamiliar surroundings.

If the kids are still restless, a flashlight and some “anti-monster spray” (which can be made with a spray bottle, some water, and just about any fragrance you have on hand) can help ward off fears of creepy corners or dark closets.

Plan Relaxation Time

Your little one might not be able to drop off to sleep right after being plopped into bed during this exciting time of year. New faces, tasty food, and the promise of new games, toys, and gifts can keep kids from simmering down for a long time, so you may need to add in some extra time for kids to relax and unwind before lights out. Reading a favourite book together or listening to soothing music can help put your little one in the right state of mind for bed.

By following these basic tips, you can minimize the evening struggle of getting your little ones to sleep, and make sure you get enough sleep to take on the holidays, too! If you’ve followed all these tips and your little one is still struggling to sleep, even in their own room, it may be time to upgrade their bed. Uncomfortable beds can cause fussiness and poor sleep quality in kids as well as adults – so check out all the incredible Beautyrest mattresses, pillows, and more that we have to offer in-store. Your bedtime routine will thank us!

Angela, Your Sleep Expert

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