As we move outside for another season of sunshine and outdoor entertainment, there is no need to forgo the style and comfort that we enjoy in our living rooms and family rooms.
The demand for weather-tolerant furniture has sparked an exciting selection of new, fresh styles and ever more hardy materials. Familiar cottage classics such as Adirondack chairs, a hammock and old-fashion swing happily mix with these latest arrivals. My Rosseau Conversation Collection, available at Sears, sears.ca, invites a group to gather round and chat while seated in comfort on all weather wicker resin chairs and sofa. The cushions are stuffed with quick-dry polyurethane and polyester fiberfill and covered in Sunbrella fabric, which dries faster than any other fabric.
Outdoor carpets have been available for a while, but they are now showing off sophisticated patterns and vibrant shades. They are more breathable, and as beautiful as indoor carpets. The trend today is to style a room outside with the same elements as inside, and the minute a carpet goes down, a room is created.
The combination of sea blue and white produces a Mediterranean flair that prompts you to serve up bruschetta and antipasto, while sipping on a cool lemonade, or perhaps a limoncello in practical and stylish acrylic tumblers. The coffee table has a weatherstone top and shapely non-rust aluminum legs. Stripes are a perennial favourite, and I have also designed a brightly coloured Medallion rug that is fashioned after exquisite Italian tiles. Throw cushions always enhance the scene, a finishing touch that adds comfort and style.
Dear Debbie: Your suggestions about what a person should do before purchasing art in a recent column were excellent. I was wondering if you would consider talking about local artists as many of us have websites and would love the business. Eleanor
We receive many emails from artists and artisans whose various skills and abundant talent are worthy of note. Wherever you live, chances are excellent that you have local artists nearby. If you are on the hunt for original work, I recommend that you start by checking out your local art and furniture stores. Many artists also hang their work in neighbourhood restaurants, too. It’s another way to be seen. Use the Internet to search for artists in your area.
But this subject is broader than art. Custom furniture, tables, lighting and myriad home accessories are also produced by local talent. They are competing with big-box stores — not an easy task. Prices will be higher, but so will the unique quality. A special, hand-hewn piece will enrich your home like nothing else.
Thank you to all my readers for emailing us your ideas, your sources, your questions and your photos. Although it’s not possible to respond to everyone, we do read every email and choose those that have general or specific interest to answer in print. I couldn’t do my job without you.
Dear Debbie: We will be renovating our small kitchen and want more room for cooking. Also, do you suggest paint or wallpaper for the wall? We have new red chairs for the kitchen table.
Debbie B.
A cluttered counter makes a small kitchen even smaller. Work out a plan that includes good storage so that everything from appliances to cooking utensils can be put away. Utilize the new cabinet designs that include movable shelves and inside door storage. Check out wallpapers with amazing digital designs. Hang pots and pans on this wall.
Debbie Travis’ House to Home column is produced by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Email house2home@debbietravis.com. Follow Debbie on Twitter at twitter.com/debbie_travis, and visit Debbie’s website, debbietravis.com.
