2 Hounds Design Unleashed

For Sale, contemporary furniture used in vacants

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 17:43:33 -0500

Hey all in Ontario! I'm clearing out some of my contemporary inventory. I've got beautiful Italian Leather pieces for sale.

I am selling these at WHOLESALE PRICING.

Versitile Sofa with Ottoman or Chaise...depending on your mood! (Soft Grey as shown)

Product Description:
Sofas with cubic geometry are likely to achieve minimalism visually. However, only few can claim Paria's comfort. Paria comes as a sofa and ottoman. The ottoman base can be placed in front of the left or right side. By easily replacing the 2 piece cushion and the ottoman cushion it transforms into a sectional sofa.

Technical Information:
Internal Structure: Solid pine wood frame
Internal Upholstery: Polyurethane foam, polyester fiber
Support Structure: Aluminum laminated MDF
Ferrules: Thermoplastic material
Cover: Slip cover with Velcro enclosures in fabric

Dimensions:
Paria Sectional: H32" W91" D33" SH16" AH25.5"
Paria Ottoman: H16" W27" D27"

$1500 - Pick up only.

4 Italian White Leather Dining Chairs (extremely comfortable)

Product Description:
The understated SoHo Chair displays minimal design qualities through the use of rectilinear forms. SoHo is the ideal blend of style and comfort. The upholstered armrests that extend for about three quarters of the seat depth promote seating for extended periods of time and improve durability. This elegant and comfortable design is also suitable for commercial applications.

Technical Information:
Internal Structure: Steel tubes and sections
Internal Upholstery: Injection-molded polyurethane foam
Support Structure: Chrome plated steel sections
Cover: Slip cover with Velcro enclosures

Dimensions:
Soho Chrome Chair: H31" W22" D21.5" SH18" AH24"

$1200 for the set of 4. Pick up only. (I can get more if you want 6 or 8)

2 Eifel chairs in Italian White Leather...very comfortable!

Product Description:
Eifel chair and stools stand out at any interior with their continuous soft lines that represent a futuristic approach. The seat and the back are designed and manufactured as a whole, creating a sculptural body which seems to be carved out of an egg shape. A slender steel wire support structure dramatizes this futuristic approach and allows the users to observe and appreciate the geometry without interference. Eifel's steel structure and high quality detailing makes it suitable for commercial use as well as residential.

Technical Information:
Internal Structure: Steel tubes and sections
Internal Upholstery: Injection-molded polyurethane foam
Support Structure: Chrome plated steel wires (my chairs are like the ones on the right but in White Italian Leather)
Ferrules: Thermoplastic material
Cover: Slip cover with Velcro enclosures

Dimensions:
Eifel Chair: H31" W18" D23.5" SH18"

$400 for the pair. Pick up only. (I can get more as well if you want more than $200).

A New Product I'm In Love With!

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 12:47:40 -0500

There is a new formula to stain concrete. This is a 0-VOC, LEEDs credited approved product which contains an acid. The acid reacts with the minerals in the concrete.

The finished product can look like just about any stone finish for much less of a financial investment.

Be sure to check out KEMIKO Stone Tone Stain.

Architectural Specs are available on the website.

Kemiko Stone Tone Stain is available as a DIY product or they will direct you to a professional applicator.

UPDATE:

I've heard back from a sales rep and yes, Kemiko stone tone stain is safe to use over radiant concrete flooring!

Autumn Hot Picks 4 Your Home From 2 Hounds Design & Home Staging

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 18:53:22 -0500

Autumn Picks To Elevate Your Home As Selected By Toronto's 2 Hounds Design & Home Staging

There are so many inventive products coming on to the market and design plays just as important a role as function...perhaps more important than function!

This will be the first in an on-going series from Toronto's 2 Hounds Design + Home Staging.

As a decorator, stager and shopaholic it is imperative I stay on top of trends in home fashions so I see on a daily basis and I'm regularily introduced by manufacturers the latest and greatest.

Here are a few of my picks I've come across this Autumn in no specific order:

Bodum

Bodum's double walled Borosilicate glass will not sweat on the table, won't burn your hand holding it and they will help keep drinks cold or hot longer. Now expanded, the line includes coctail glasses...ice cold 'tinis and cosmo's should then theoretically stay cold longer...unless you drink them like I do...in which case, it wouldn't matter.

These beauties have won numerous awards since they were released in 2007.

Green Rooms

Speaking of Autumn; for those of you who, last winter, were doing what we in the Great White North do every winter to stay warm...you may now find yourself in the market for a crib.

I wanted to bring to your attention one of the most sophisticated and stylish cribs I've yet to see (at least since Madonna bought her first crib). This bamboo crib also has non-toxic glue and a natural oil finish. It is available through Green Rooms. Sorry, I don't know who the manufacturer or designer is.

Daniel Michalik

Daniel's Sway Stool is made from 100% recycled cork (from all my wine corks!). I absolutely want this whole set!

The centre is solid cork which is flexible and great for the spine and as you can see the rest of the stools are perforated which allows the stools to flex and sway under you. Remind you of anything? The Pilate's ball. These stools will look much hipper at a desk or in your living room then a big ol'ball yet it still provides the the core training and keeps your posture straight.

Did I mention I want the whole set?!

BTW, cork is water proof, resists mold and rot...I'd like a 2nd set for beside the inground pool I want too. *smile*

Botot Eau Du Bouche

I have yet to try this mouthwash but the ingredient list sure makes it sound yummy. Regardless of how it tastes and how well it works, Botot's Mouthwash will look Fabulous displayed on your bathroom counter.

This is the world's first mouthwash...I have a hard time believing that. Halitosis has been around since the dinosaurs. Not doubt they were the first to realize there was money to be made in mouthwash. Capitalists to the rescue to fight nasty gingivitis!

Speaking of Gin...when drinking in public I'd recommend G & T's. No offensive breathe to put off those you socialize with.

Or you can cart around some of Botot's for between shots. Botot Mouthwash was created by Dr. Julien Botot for King Louis XV of France in 1755. Even Royalty was dealt the hand of bad breath!

You can pick up a bottle through Bigelow Chemists.

Ingredients:Natural extracts of - Anise, Benzion, Ethanol. Natural essences of - Cinnamon, Ginger (brings blood to the gum line) Gillyflower (clove family).

Even more to love about Botot:

- Concentrated so you just add a few drops to warm water.

- Recognized as a Superior Natural Product by The Royal Society of Medicine.

- No artificial colour or flavour.

- Cruelty free!

- Is still made to the original French recipe formula (though made in Italy now)

There are so many great finds I will of course post as I find the time.

Dane Caldwell is the Lead Consultant with Toronto's 2 Hounds Design + Home Staging.

www.2-hounds.com 416-418-5919

It IS The Staging Stupid...The Canadian Stagers Version

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 15:58:08 -0500

Durham Region, Municipality of Clarington, Courtice, Ontario Canada. Small town bedroom community real estate meets The Big City Toronto Home Stager.

When we put our house up for sale mid-July this summer we were confident it would sell and fast for our area. While a house like ours down the street was listed a month and a half before we listed ours...so they would have listed...end of May beginning of June; they just sold over these past 2 weeks so some time in September they finally sold. That is about 4 months! They have yet to move. No doubt they had hoped to sell and move before school started up again.

The house like ours under went a number of price reductions yet we were sold firm in less than 2 weeks. We sold for almost $50,000 more than them.

What was the difference? We did a couple of minor updates: a new powder room and new carpet. But that would never sell a property faster and for almost $50,000 more. It was the 2 updates along with the on-trend paint through out, the upgraded lighting I selected prior to lising and the staging. I replaced my actual living/dining furniture with some of my inventory and put in a new stainless fridge and stove.

Really the stager is what sold it. Knowing what to change, what to change to, and knowing what the potential market was. I made my place look sophisticated and rich...so any professionals downsizing would feel right at home as well, anyone with kids would see they could have a 'lifestyle' in the house. It was perfect for intimate entertaining for both. And for a young couple just starting out or a young single...it was PERFECT because it was not stuffy or old and tired.

Every person who walked in fell in love. There was one couple who wanted it even though it was too small for them! Another was upset and disappointed because his house was sold on condition of his buyers selling theirs and he new he would miss the opportunity to buy ours.

The point of this particular blog post?

We did not do the staging to sell for more money; we did it to sell fast. I think it was a wise investment. Don't you?

Frank Llosawrote a great post on his blog, 'It's the Staging Stupid'. Excellent read and from a Broker Of Record who will not accept a listing unless it is staged!

The couple who finally sold...they were younger than myself but their house looked like it belonged to the saddest people with no life. Who feels good and puts an offer on that?!

What are you waiting for? Take the leap and call a Professional Home Stager.

Why Does Your Agent Want to Reduce the Price Rather than Stage?

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:41:03 -0500

Far too often, Realtor's with a listing will suggest reducing the price if it hasn't moved.

The Realtor's job is to sell the house. If they have priced it right for the neighbourhood and current market yet they are suggesting you take a price reduction it is time to ask them a very important question.

Why are you not suggesting a Professional Home Stager rather than telling me I need to drop the price?

There are a number of reasons why they might not suggest a Professional Home Stager.

They:

Don't know any stagers
Don't know what a stager is or does
Feels they told you how to stage already
Don't believe staging works
Are afraid you will ask them to pay part or all of the staging fee
See that a reduction in your asking price has less negative impact on their commission than paying for a Professional Home Staging consultation

On a $250,000 home a $10,000 reduction is only a $250 hit to the listing agent's commission based on the listing agent getting 2.5% commission. Is this an important piece of the puzzle or just coincidence?

Ontario Pitt Bull Ban Being Fought This Week in Appeals Court - Quick Poll Where YOU Can Help!!

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 10:44:28 -0500

UPDATE:

The poll ended (or was taken down) with a resounding NO! We Do NOT Support a Ban On Pitt Bulls! having the MOST votes!

Thanks all for taking the time to vote!

-----------------------------------------

The Toronto Sun, a large newspaper in Canada, is doing a poll today about the pit bull ban, and the dog lovers are NOT winning, as usual.

Take a moment to vote against the ban and could you spread this around so terrier lovers can have their say?

If we lose the rest of the provinces in Canada will ban these dogs.

Currently in Ontario all pit bulls (or pit bull type/looking dogs) must either be adopted out of province (rarely happens), put down or are sent to labs for animal testing!

We must not lose the fight to stop Ontario in it's tracks and end this horrible ban!

www.torontosun.com - The poll is on the right hand side.

Don't forget to pass on the poll link, or send them here to my blog post, to others who don't support the ban!

Thanks!

Dane

My pit bulls....

Reality Check:

Ontario SIF-RESA Round Table

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 14:04:55 -0500

For those of you who attended our first RT and those hoping to attend any upcoming RT I wanted to assure you I am working on getting one organized for November.

I'm excited and looking forward to seeing everyone again and also to new faces!

I will announce our location ASAP I promise! Hopefully by the end of the week...but don't hold me to it...it is out of my hands so all I can do is follow-up to see where they are on a decision to sponsor us.

As it stands, the date is tentative for Wednesday November 5th.

More to the photo then what meets the eye

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 20:59:43 -0500

Beautiful are they not? LOL, Ok well the colour is. They are a good reminder to me that a person can be 'rough around the edges' and still be a beautiful person. Still sometimes you get what you see...and a rose does have thorns!

BTW, when selling a house or condo the buyer is aware they get what they see. So as a seller...it is in your best interest and your retirement funds best interest to smooth out the rough edges.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I took this the other afternoon. I wanted to remember the colour of the roses outside my door. The colour is stunning and I think will be tres hot in home decor with an indian vibe and in fashion...with an indian vibe.

Thanks for the invite to your group and for the opportunity to share Robert!

Dane

Toronto's 2 Hounds Design's Set Design Photo For a Los Angeles T.V. Show!

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 10:16:03 -0500

Ok, I have 1 photo of the set but it was taken right AFTER the show so the pillows, throw etc are all over the furniture and the coffee cups and tray the 'talent' (LOL well if you are going to work with the industry you have to talk the talk! LOL) used are on the coffee table still.

There were 5 digital cameras to film the show and they really show the lighting to it's fullest extent.

Also, we only had access to furniture with in the 4 seasons...which is only a 3 star hotel...YUCKY and OLD!

The couch I assured the Producer would look amazing and would also mostly be hidden by the girls when sitting on it.

The coffee table's legs would also not be seen so I was ok with it...I didn't like the brass legs but the top was perfect.

Ok, enough excuses for the furniture!

Here is the set, taken from beside the lighting and cameras:

This was the most excitement I've had in quite a while. Kim was amazing and did an incredible job of sourcing some of the accessories.

You can bet I will be calling Kimberly to assist again.

I will make sure to responding to comments I've gotten on the previous and this post over the next few days but I'm exhausted, still excited (I'm in BlackBerries in L.A and Chicago!!) told I will be getting referrals and may get a call to go to L.A. OMG!!

Now I've promised to take the kids out to ride their bikes...they've waited long enough for me to have 2 coffee's and some time on the computer. :) Life has some great surprises for us all...just be patient and confident and they will come!

I am extremely lucky to have had this opportunity and I'm thrilled!

Ste. Anne's Spa - Unbeatable Promotion

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 09:14:30 -0500

I love Ste. Anne's Spa.

I spent a few days there after I lost my 2 babies Lingz and Booboo.

They have a great promotion on for the month of September.

lunch (bring your own wine - no corking fee!)
afternoon tea (yummy!)
$100 allowance toward a spa treatment
one group wellness class and complete use of the facilities (multiple sauna's including my favorite the eucalyptus sauna, the grotto hot tub, year round out door dunking pool, gym, etc)

All this and it's only $149!

I'd love to see some of you ladies from around the GTA. If you are interested in having a completely relaxing day in a beautiful setting...come on, spend the day in a bathrobe!

I am available to go on these dates: September 12, 18, 19, 24, 25 and the 30th.

Who's up for a day at the spa with me?

Dane

What does Queen Latifah, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Hudson Have To Say About 2 Hounds Design?

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:23:33 -0500

'Beautiful!'

I have had the most amazing 2 days. It was even more amazing because I got to bring in Kimberly Hawley to assist me.

I was called in by FOX/BET to create a 'living room' for a t.v. show where the stars of a film interview each other. The movie, The Secret Life of Bees, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival starring Queen Latifah, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Hudson, Dakota Fanning and more!

2 Hounds Design designed the set!

The show will air this October the week the movie premiers in the U.S.

I'll keep you posted with the airing of the show so you can see just how amazing the room looked on film!

Thank You AR & a Request

Sat, 06 Sep 2008 14:38:42 -0500

I can not think of a group more accepting, welcoming and fair as I have here among the AR Gods and staff. They truly are the best and I admire them.

I'm much more critical, biased and outright opinionated to do the job they do.

I've taken a lesson or two from their ability to be so open to contrary opinions and their, what appears to me as, infinite patience...I think it's worn off on me some...hope so!

It came as a complete shock to me to find out they've gone and Featured me in the AR newsletter...boy do I feel crappy about unsubscribing! BTW, what on earth did I do right to deserve the attention...and could someone send me a copy...I'd love to see it!

Thanks guys/gals (are gals among you?) I don't think I deserve the attention but thank you. There are so many more in the Rain much more deserving than me...and some who are sadly no longer with us.

If I may, I'd like to make a suggestion...could you add who has left us, to play in the rain no more, in the monthly newsletters?

I know I've missed some incredible people and may never discover them and their blogs otherwise however, I believe it is never too late.

Major Appliance Manufacturers To Up Their Prices

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 14:37:27 -0500

Thinking of purchasing any major appliances in the near future? If so, I've some important information for you that may impact your decision and budget!

I was speaking with my account manager where I have a trade account on major appliances. I was told that every single appliance manufacturer was going to be putting up their prices in about 2 month.

The price increase is the same for all manufacturers and it is a whopping 8%.

I just purchased a 2009 refrigerator. The 2008 model, which is now sold out, retails for $3000 CDN. The retail ticket price for the 2009 model...with no change to the refrigerator, is $3500. That is almost a 16% increase in price!

I'm fortunate, I have designer trade resources not available to the public so of course I don't pay retail. For those who do pay retail or manage to haggle a $200 or $300 discount...I feel bad.

Contact Toronto's 2 Hounds Design ASAP if you are considering purchasing any major appliances. With some exceptions, 2 Hounds Design is happy to pass on our designer discount to clients.

No Title Can Do The Subject Justice - 3 Canadians Killed

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 23:42:39 -0500

This evening I felt an overwhelming desire to tell you every thought that entered my silly head. The computer was not on...who wants to wait for a computer to start up. I didn't.

I had so many questions, so many concerns too many to consider. Then at midnight rather than turn out the lights and go to bed I turned on the computer. I lost my 'life line' on Octobre; my 2 hounds (actually pit bulls) but tonight, I turned on the computer and am posting to AR rather than going to bed. A question...are you, yes you reading this post; are you my life line?

-----------------------------------------

We (Canada) how selfish of me, we. 3 families, Canadian families, lost their beautiful young boys. As a mother, as a Canadian I claim these young men. How selfish of me for what have I lost but tears?

CNN will only tell you 3 NATO casualties were lost. If CNN reports it at all. The last time I have found CNN reporting the facts about the casualties of Canadians in Afghanistan was Thu July 5, 2007. As my family in the U.S. has told me: "When a Canadian dies, it is reported as a NATO casualty" so it doesn't hit too close to home.

I'm here to tell 3 soldiers were killed and many more injured in a deliberate attack in Afghanistan. They were ARE Canadian.

Today I also learned that 61% of Canadians polled believe we should withdraw from Afghanistan due to high casualties and the high cost to maintain troops. I am so assamed of my fellow Canadians. If you ask the Canadian troops, individuals who are or have been on the ground in Afghanistan, they are certain their mission is true, has value and IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE.

Canadian's like every other country don't want to see their young men and women coming home in boxes. But Canadian's used to hold their heads high and stand for something. Think of France, Holland what would they be without Canada?! Ask their students who maintain our soldier's graves!

I am ashamed of my countrymen who would demand a government pull out because they don't like to see young men and women return home in boxes.

61%, look to these Canadian HEROs: to pull out when these HEROs have given their livesto ensure another mother's sons & daughters lives are free, in a country where they don't look or do things as we do...listen to the deeds and words...and honour them. They believe. Why can't you show some faith in what they've died for?

Cpl. Andrew Grenon, 23

Cpl. Mike Seggie, 21

Pte. Chad Horn, 21

killed when Taliban militants attacked their LAV III armoured personnel carrier. They were all due home shortly.

"Why We Fight:" - Cpl. Grenon 2006

"I've often asked myself why we are here. Why my government actually agreed to send troops to this God-forsaken place.

"There are no natural resources. No oil, gold, or silver. Just people.

"People who have been at war for the last 40 plus years. People who want nothing more than their children to be safe. People who will do anything for money; even give their own life.

"I look into the eyes of these people. I see hate, destruction and depression. I see love, warmth, kindness and appreciation.

"Why do we fight? For in this country, there are monsters. Monsters we could easily fight on a different battlefield, at a different time. Monsters that could easily take the fight to us. (emphasis added).

"Surrounding these mud walls and huts is a country in turmoil. A country that is unable to rebuild itself. A country that cannot guarantee a bright future for its youth.

Rest in Peace beautiful boys who grew to be heros from a mother with undying love and gratitude.

Out And About in the GTA This Weekend

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:37:10 -0500

If you are depressed to see the days getting shorter, schools back in and the knowledge of the approaching dreary GTA winter is starting to get you down...get out of town!

This weekend there are a ton of great things to do:

Durham Region(Orono) Annual Fall Fair- Sept. 4 - 7, 2008 - Orono
Wine Tasting Fundraiser - Saturday Sept. 5, 2008 - Markham Museum - Wine!!
24th Annual Vegetarian Food Fair- Sept. 5 - 7 - Harbour Front Centre - Perfect! Wine makes me hungry.
Art & Antiques in the Park - Sept. 6 - 7 - Markham Museum - These people are busy!
Shaw Festival - Niagara-On-The-Lake - There are 3 plays to choose from this weekend. Stay at an in and get the spa treatments...a little wine tasting tour. Make a weekend of it!

Just some ideas to get you thinking. Now get out there and enjoy the end of the summer...I'll live vicariously through you so please let me know what you did on the weekend!

Orono (Durham) Fall Fair 2008

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 13:32:50 -0500

It is that time again for annual community fall fairs! Can you believe it is September?!

Orono, just north east of Bowmanville is hosting their annual Fall Fair the weekend after Labour Day beginning Thursday September 4th and running through the weekend.

I go for the horse shows, to check out the farm animals and to people watch but there is also the tractor pull (I should mention these are MODIFIED tractors!)

Of course if you like things 'stock' there is the farm class tractor pull

Bluegrass music for those, like my parents who love the music (?! sorry, I don't) Here is Home Sweet Home who have played at the fair in the past...I'm not sure if they will be there or not this year

If you see me at the fair be sure to say hi!

I had a great conversation with Shell about the RT's and RESA

Sat, 23 Aug 2008 21:38:18 -0500

Shell called me today. One certainty in this life, if you have a concern about RESA, Shell is always happy to talk and make sure you have all the info you need.

Shell and I have talked on the phone a couple of times now. Both times I get off the phone with a lot of admiration and respect for Shell.

I'll share a secret: I think Shell is our biggest cheerleader.

I know I don't sound like it...but I'm just full of questions and damn it if she doesn't answer each and every one but blows me away with her drive and ambition to get our industry the recognition and respect we all know it deserves.

I am sorry I always put poor Shell on the spot but there are questions that some don't want to ask though need an answer.

I don't think I have any power to influence peoples views on anything let alone RESA...but just in case: at the end of the day I question for myself and myself alone.

I have great admiration for what Shell and it's members have accomplished in one year. So I know that Shell and the volunteers (RESA members and non-members) is going to blow us away with the organizing, thought and time put in to the RTs.

As Shell told me today, even she does not know what happened to the info gathered from the last RT sessions.

Lessons learned: ask for help when you get in over your head. That goes for business and personal life!

With Shell on board and RESA supporting the SIF RTs I am confident we will see useful information emerge from the collected data.

And despite all the hard times I've given her...she suggested something I will seriously consider. There is so much to be done and so little time.

Painting - Save Time & Money With Designer Paints? YES!

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 15:24:06 -0500

As you likely remember I prepared my house for sale. There were numerous upgrades we put in but the one job we did is the most time consuming as well as providing the most $ROI.

We painted the entire house...well I painted the entire house. Since we were selling I went the cheap route and colour matched a Benji colour using Behr.

What a disaster! The computers can never get the same formula even over 3 cans. Home Depot's paint manager gave me the low down:

After a product (ex. latex flat emulsion base white) goes on the big box shelf the paint manufacturers update the product on an ongoing basis. Therefore you can get a can with an 'older' (last months) formula and a can of the 'new' formula. The cans will look exactly alike; the manufacturers have simply 'tweaked' the formula which will alter the colour outcome!
Each manufacturer has their own 'white' base to which colour is added. So when you take a Benji or Restoration Hardware or C2 sample in to colour match you will never get the same...because they are formulated using a different white base.
The colour matching done at the big boxes are not done by the eye only the computer. At least at specialty paint stores when they colour match they will take the computers 'match' and then tweak till they feel it is right. This can take a whole day of them playing around, a few hours or few minutes. If you listen to them as they do it you will find out how complex the C2 colours are to colour match!

Here is what happened when I tried to touch up some spots with a different can of paint which was purchased at the same time as the original wall colour:

BTW, I went back 3 times trying to get the colour fixed...many many cans later I actually spoke with a paint manager. I got my money back for the original paints.

I will never again colour match at a big box.

I wish I could say I'll never colour match again but C2 is to damn far away...so Abernathy's in Bowmanville will be doing my colour matching of C2 they take their time and will not release the paint till it is a match!

However, and the point to all this rambling: I used Ben Moore's Aura paint. Despite the cost of a gallon of Aura you actually use much less than you would of the big box paints.

max 2 coats with Aura (just like C2)
self-priming (OMG!!!)

New drywall or patched? Just paint it one coat with Aura and you are done.

I had already done 2 coats everywhere...then the touch up fiasco and then repainting in Aura. Thankfully I only had to do 1 coat and no priming any patches!

Now that is a lot of time to relax and enjoy the job!

Recycled and Salvaged Bricks and Paving Stones

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:13:04 -0500

Bricks are generally kilned fired at high heat so the process is energy intensive. There are a number of manufacturers who now offer recycled bricks & paving stones for sale.

The majority are manufacturers however I'm sure there are some gardening or landscaping companies who accept and sell used pavers in your local area...you may have to expend some energy of your own to find them!

Below are some companies you can donate or purchase from and some who produce bricks from recycled content using alternate methods from kiln drying:

www.cunninghambrick.com

www.greenestbrick.com

www.bricksalvage.com

www.historicalbricks.com

Locally in Durham Region here in Ontario there is Holman Landscape Restoration. Holman Landscape understands the importance of staging the exterior of your home prior to lising for sale. Don't waste time, book Holman for their lift and relay service now to prepare for the fall real estate season!

Please add in the comments any firms you know of locally and hopefully this blog will be a resource for others!

If you are looking for something that others may offer recycled make sure you check out this site: http://www.recycle.net/ you can search in your area!

SIF Roundtables...how about spilling the beans with those who participated in the first round?

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:21:54 -0500

I've been asked by participants from the first RT we held in Ontario and have come to wonder myself as well what has been done with the information we provided from the first round table?

It's nice to see Shell has gotten the ball rolling again to keep the initiative going BTW! Shell definitely gets things done.

As for the past RTs it seems there was no rhyme or reason for all the man hours that went in to documenting the meetings, and the many phone calls/questions etc.

The only information we were given as facilitators was that Craig had a 'plan' and 'all would be revealed'. So far, I've not been told or given anything to forward to my RT members so I have some questions:

What was the purpose if there is no sharing of information and the agenda always being a 'secret' for only a handful to know?
Who is benefitting from the compiled data?
When will the compiled data be released to the participants? As I see it, the compiled data belongs to every single participant across North America.

I see great value in the RT's and will facilitate the November meeting but the initiative/agenda needs to be an open book with ALL participants.

What is the long term agenda, purpose of the RTs?

The Importance of Lighting - Know Your Math Formula For Perfect Lighting In Every Room

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:55:19 -0500

Everyone is aware when they walk in to a room with the perfect lighting scheme. A room with a well planned out lighting scheme just feels right; it feels welcoming, relaxing and yes even sophisticated.

How do you feel in your home? Do you walk in to your rooms and feel as though you've just entered an operating theatre or a movie theatre during the previews? Are your pets and small children afraid of what could be lurking in the dark corners of your rooms?

Getting the right balance of lighting is an art...but it is an art with it's foundation firmly rooted in science.

Lighting Formula = Layers of Light = Artful Lighting

The different types of lighting, and I'm not talking about floor and table lamps, chandeliers etc, have specific purposes and can be artfully layered to create the perfectly lit room for all your lighting requirements.

The Science of Lighting

Layers of Light

The 5 Basic Types of Lighting:

ambient - this is your general purpose lighting
indirect lighting- which comes from 1 or more fixtures also known as luminaries. Light from these sources bounce the light off the ceiling and walls. Indirect can be used as the ambient lighting for a room. Uplighting which can come from scones for example is a form of ambient where the light uses the ceiling to bounce the light back down on to the room...et voila! You now have indirect lighting.
task - provides a focused light designed for specific tasks you preform such as fixing meals or reading a book. The task lighting would be a layer of light in the room over and above the ambient lighting source.
wall washing - provides even lighting around the perimeter of a room and can come from the floor up the wall or from the ceiling down. Placement is important so avoid lighting over or under a window, mirrors or framed photography or you will create reflections which can be harsh and distracting. If you have an accent wall in your room with a darker paint colour you will no doubt have to add additional lighting to wash the walls due to the darker colour absorbing more of the light.
accent- is placed specifically to highlight an object. Make sure you avoid the light from straying beyond the object and avoid over use of accent lighting or you will overwhelm the room and occupants with visual stimulus and potentially move the lighting in to the realm of operating theatre.

What architects, interior designers, decorators and lighting specialists know in order to calculate the perfect amount of lighting for a room:

The Lighting Formulas

general formula

Room Length X Room Width X 1.5 = Required Wattage to Light a Room

An example:

10 x 15 foot bedroom x 1.5 will require 225 watts.

Therefore if you only have 1 overhead light with 2 60 watt bulbs the lighting in the room will be deficient by 105 watts.

2. task lighting formula

task area length X task area width X 2.5 = Required Wattage for Task Lighting

The concentrated lighting provided by the formula results in the amount of wattage for getting the job done.

The Art of Lighting - Professional Required

With required wattage in hand the left half of the brain takes over and the art of lighting reveals the intricacy's of layered lighting. The artist understands the interplay of light and colour and can visualize the layers of lighting required in a room to achieve the perfect balance.

In a follow up blog we will discuss the art of lighting and layering in detail.

Please feel free to re-blog this post to spread enLIGHTenment!

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Thinking About Being a Stager? Be Honest & Respectful!

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 10:29:08 -0500

I got a call this morning from a teenager. The first words out of her mouth after 'ah, like' was 'how much do you charge for staging and interior design'?

I asked a couple of questions...she wants to give her mother a gift and just needs to know how much I charge. 'Like hourly? How much if you came for an hour and gave her some ideas'?

I asked what her budget was and which service she was interested in...'ah, both'.

I told her she wouldn't have the budget for me to call someone else...but she still wanted my prices.

Now, I can hear 'mom' in the background.

People, don't lie to us. Show some respect.

I've had many women contact me about staging as a career and because they were honest and upfront with me I've given them unlimited access to my knowledge.

Lie and you will be shut out. Remember, respect is not given it is earned.

If this is how a person approaches professionals...how respectful and honest do you think they will be with clients?

This industry has a lot of competition...a lot of it is NOT healthy and some stagers will throw knives at your back...I can guess which group of stagers this mother will be in.

Hot New Listing in Courtice Won't Last Long! 3 Bdrm detached Courtice ON Home Offered For Sale - $259,900

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 21:35:07 -0500

Trulls & Nash


	Address:	193 George Reynolds Dr
	Taxes:	$2,935.07
	Lot Size:	41.4 X 128.61
	Bedrooms:	3
	Bathrooms:	2
	Kitchens:	1
	Garage:	Attached
	Fire Place:	Yes
	Central Air:	Yes
	MLS Number:	E1419860

* One Of A Kind Detached Family Home In A Prime Courtice Location * Beautifuly Finished With Designer Decor * This Home Boasts Great Entertaining Space With Its Open Kit/Brkfst Area Which Opens Onto A Scenic Deck W/Ravine View, A Professionally Fin'd Basement With Terrace Walkout, Gas Fireplace In The Rec Rm, Spalike Mstr Bath W/Soaker Tub, Main Flr Powder Rm, Great Landscaping W/ Interlocking Brick Paths & Flagstone Terrace, Pool Size Lot & So Much More...*

Having fun staging my own house...on my time off!

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:39:12 -0500

I've been on 'vacation' for the past 3 weeks and I've gotten to do what I love best during the time off.

Staging a 3 bedroom 2 bath home with walkout basement.

Realtor open house is tomorrow and I can't wait to hear the feedback.

The house is in Durham Region...Courtice to be exact.

Toronto Real Estate Market and Surrounding Communities

Sun, 29 Jun 2008 13:14:07 -0500

First let me say I am a Decorator & (home) stager not a Realtor. I am very closely involved in the selling of properties however and I am seeing a distinct trend in buyer behaviour.

I've also direct experience myself as a buyer in the current market.

The Toronto real estate market is still going strong with prices continuing to rise at an average increase of 3%. If you take last years (2007) record sales figures out of the equation, 2008 has so far had an increase of 6% over 2006 prices.

Is it a sellers market? Yes and no.

Buyers are taking longer to decide and making sure the value is there in the property.

Buyers are fussier than ever.
Properties do sit longer; they sell but not as quickly.
Properties which would have had multiples due to location and price are not getting any offers in the first week.

Now more than ever sellers in the GTA and Downtown Toronto market need to make sure they prepare and present their properties to satisfy buyers who will not buy if maintenance has not been kept up on the property. Buyers will go down the street and make an offer on a well maintained comparable.

As a seller don't discount the dollar value buyers place on maintenance.

DIY buyers know the amount of time, labour and money involved in having to maintain exterior wooden windows. Prep time, stripping the old chaulking, scrapping the old paint, priming, painting and clean up not to mention the cost of tools, ladder or scaffolding to reach upper windows, primer and paint add up.

To have a professional maintain the windows adds up to THOUSANDS of dollars when done properly.

Add to windows not being maintained, a roof nearing the end of it's life and you've just shown potential buyers at least a $10,000 investment in your property. You won't be getting an offer any time soon. Buyers will look at your property and know that if you didn't maintain these items you've no doubt failed to maintain the property at all.

What does this mean? Potential buyers will add another $10,000 to $50,000 in maintenance to the cost of your property.

Is it a buyers market? Absolutely

Buyers are still willing to pay more, as shown by the 3% increase over last years record increase BUT they expect a hell of a lot more from the property and will wait for the right one.

Sellers now more than ever need to invest in a consultation with a home stager.

If you list your property and it has not been maintained expect it to take a lot longer to sell for reasons listed above.
If you list and it has been staged but not maintained expect it to take longer to sell for reasons listed above. Don't sell buyers short, they do see beyond the staging.

Home staging is not the solution unless you are prepared to make sure the property has been maintained.

Our market is moving slower.
There are more properties listed
Buyers are in no rush to purchase with concerns of the U.S. real estate bust heading north and crossing the boarder.

Savvy sellers in the current Toronto & GTA Real Estate market know there is a formula to getting property sold.

If you list your property and it has been maintained expect it to take a bit longer to sell as buyers want to make sure they are getting the best value for their money and are not afraid of missing out on a house or two.
If it has been maintained and staged it will show to perfection and sell quicker possibly with multiples as they are still happening just not nearly as often.

Here's to getting your property sold!

____________________________________________

Dane Caldwell is the Lead Design Consultant for Toronto and GTA's 2 Hounds Design and Home Staging.

www.2-hounds.com

"I won't be the person who sells your house, but I will be the reason it sells".- Dane Caldwell, Toronto, GTA & Durham Region Interior Design/Decorating + Home Staging Specialist