trend chair 2010

The contrasts between old and new, different textures, scales and colours are in sync with House & Home’s “look of the year” in the January 2010 Trends issue. Both are sexy, sophisticated and approachable, with pieces that you can work way beyond a single season.

Is it the effects of a recession? Maybe. But if you ask me, smart and stylish always come out on top, whether the economy is in a bust or boom.

Two Days Left!

Just a reminder that The National Home Show at The Direct Energy Building at Exhibition Place in Toronto ends this Sunday, February 28th. That means you have two days to take advantage of discount tickets available online — save $5 by using the promo code: HOUSE. (This blog and the Little Projects Guide are sponsored by NHS.)

 Not sure if you should make the trek? Well, style editor Michael Penney provided oodles of stylish reasons for checking out the show in his recent Affordable Style posts. (This outdoor sofa from Andrew Richard Designs being one.)
If you're not within the GTA, be sure to enjoy our Little Projects Guide, which is chock full of The National Home Show highlights, decorating tips and trends and blogs featuring the design inspiration behind the spaces in the 2010 Eurodale Dream Home.

Flamant-Inspired Decorating

If you haven’t heard of Flamant style by now, you must be living under a designer rock.

In House & Home circles, the Belgian look of grey paint and bleached wood has had a huge impact over the past few years. Think of the 2009 Princess Margaret Hospital Showhouse (and look for the magazine spread in the April 2010 issue, on newsstands March 15!).

 The look comes to us via the internationally known store/brand called Flamant, based in Belgium. (You may recall that Lynda Reeves recently wrote a column extolling their virtues, as well.)

Aren’t their kitchens dreamy?

I don’t know about you, but I’m not planning to move to Belgium any time soon. So, I’ve gotta get my Flamant here and on the cheap! Let’s call it Frugal Flamant. And here with the goods is Crate & Barrel!

 I love this table! It’s called the French Kitchen Table and sells for $1,599. You can call it your Belgian kitchen table if you like. I also love the other fantastic French-style accents from Crate!