Designed by aptly named architecture firm Superkul, the luxury Shift Cottage located on Canada’s Georgian Bay is super-cool, to say the least. The calm, uncomplicated characteristic of this northern Ontario setting sets the tone for this modern 2,000-sq.-ft. haven of rest and relaxation. The island cottage sits on the rocky terrain of the Canadian Shield, the subject of many Group of Seven masterpieces, and this idyllic location has too inspired the architects in designing this rustic home of quiet luxuries. (more…)
Keep the natural environment of your home in mind while decorating it. You can start with the architectural approach. However, remember to opt for décor that gels well with the surroundings. For example, a casual country decoration that uses checks, floral, cotton, linen, and other cheerful colors, is apt for cottages. (more…)
Tearing down is becoming so passé.
Once a trend, it has become almost required in American building that old houses be demolished to make way for homes that are bigger and grander.
But The New American Home at this year’s International Builders Show makes a big statement of its own, that just about any house can be saved — if the owners are willing to pay to move and renovate it.
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The Erdmans have three fireplaces in their Mahwah home: One in the dining room, one in the library and one in the great room.
“The only one we’ve ever used is in the great room,” said Diane Erdman.
But that one gets a lot of use once the cooler weather rolls around.
“My husband, Andy, makes a wood fire every Saturday and Sunday,” said Erdman. “He gets it started once we’re in for the day. On Sunday, he likes to hang out and watch his football by the crackling fire. It’s so cozy. He likes to get it really roaring.”
Some might say there’s something primordial about the urge to build a roaring fire. Nowadays, fireplaces serve largely a decorative function in our homes. But we still have a soft spot in our hearts for the hearth, and its connotations of psychological warmth and togetherness.
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Plants die. Sweaters go out of fashion. Chocolates get gobbled fast. But design books are gifts that keep giving.
It’s true. Sumptuously illustrated books about well-designed objects, inviting interiors, and extraordinary homes are forever useful, always up there on the shelf offering ideas or the occasional escape into a more comely world.
So add a trip to the bookstore to your last-minute shopping rounds and look for these selections from among this year’s notable releases: (more…)
