Tobi Brockway Interiors

Interior Design Show 2012

2012-02-01T16:50:00.008-05:00

This past weekend, IDS12 was in town and I scoured each aisle on Trade Day to source new and exciting finds. My clients with renovated kitchens and bathrooms know that I love backsplash tiles - they're the easiest and most economical way to add "wow" to your space. Here are a few that are worth noting:

Each if these tiles from Saltillo Tiles is actually rounded, giving a very cool look. For those of you who don't like patterned kitchen backsplashes and prefer a single colour effect, these tiles still provide a "wow". The smooth texture makes them easy to clean, another consideration when selecting tile for the kitchen.

For those of you who like pattern, these tiles from Orro Mosaics would look amazing in a bathroom!

A combination of ceramic, steel and glass in a dazzling contemporary pattern:

For a more traditional bathroom, imagine this backsplash on the wall behind the mirror. Beautiful!

Stay tuned for my other finds.......

Create your own virtual pin board

2012-01-24T16:52:00.004-05:00

Before meeting with my long-time client, Amanda, to discuss a new project, she told me she would email me a link to her "pin board" to give me an idea of what she liked. This "pin board" displayed pictures of furniture, rugs and accessories that she had found on various websites. Thus was my first introduction to Pin Interest, a fabulous website for finding inspiration and great ideas. Not only is it a quick and easy way to copy images into my own pin boards, but it shows what everyone else has put on their pin boards. Here's what my "Products I Love " board looks like that I just started.

I can have as many different boards as I like: "Design Inspiration", "Photography and Art" - the possibilities are endless. And no need to cut out from magazines. As I surf the internet checking out websites, I click on the "Pin It" button on my bookmark toolbar and the image is saved directly to my pin board. So start pinning and follow my pin boards!

Insights into 2012

2012-01-09T13:00:00.006-05:00

Happy New Year! Wishing you all a very happy, healthy and prosperous 2012.

Here's my prognosis for the coming year:

Whether Canada will continue to avoid the recession that's affected the US and Europe or not, Canadians will redecorate, renovate and improve their homes. This should include an emphasis on planning, budgeting and smart purchases (quality + price = value).
Social media will be bigger than ever. We'll be spending even more time trying to keep up with friends and relatives' Facebook messages.
The IPad and apps created to make our lives simpler (4 new design app's in the last couple of months!) will cause information overload to a degree never experienced before.

Here's my 2012 mandate for this blog:

To distill through all that information, to sort out what's worthwhile and to provide you with the most relevant and useful tidbits on a regular and timely basis.

And to start off the year, here's a new product brought to my attention by my client Christine:

Magic Sliders, easy-to-apply cushions for the bottom of furniture that work on hardwood and carpet. There's nothing more aggravating than putting on a felt-type cushion on dining room chairs for the hardwood and then having to move them on a carpet. Problem solved.

Avoid Electrostatic Shocks

2011-10-07T09:12:00.003-04:00

As we head into the cooler temperatures, I notice that with the drier indoor air the number of static shocks I receive in our home is electrifying! These tips to reduce static electricity was brought to my attention courtesy of the blog: Compare Electricity Rates.

Increasing Humidity. Should you live in a very dry climate and get lots of days when it causes static shocks then improving the humidity can help with that problem. A humidifier can add moisture to the air or even something like running a shower will help.
Using Dryer Sheets. Placing dryer sheets in your dryer when using it can cut down on the problem of static electricity when drying your clothes. Not only do they help to decrease problems of wrinkles, but they also help with in the area of static electricity that can make things like socks stick together.
Cotton Layers. With things like blankets or clothes that you stack in layers and the fibers tend to cause build ups in static charges adding something between them made of cotton is a good idea. It will reduce the problem and cut down on the change of shocks.
Wetting Your Hair. If you are going to use the clothes dryer a good option to keep from the risk of getting a shock is to slightly wet your hair. That will decrease the chance of static electricity build up.
Wristbands. There are wristbands you can purchase to wear that will help keep the static charges from building up, when are you working around metal or electric appliances.
Keys. If you have problems with getting shocks when you reach for a door knob then touch it with your car or house key first. It will absorb the electricity without causing you any serious shocks.
Change Your Shoes. Perhaps the type of sole on a given pair of shoes contributes to you getting shocked. Then switching to a different pair can take care of that problem.
Taking Off Jewelry. If you are going to be working around metal and will have to touch it a lot then removing any jewelry can cut down on the chances of getting shocked.
Avoid Wool Clothes. Reduce your chances of shocked by not wearing clothes made of something such as wool. It is more prone to have static charges than fabrics made of cotton.

Latest in kitchen appliances

2011-08-02T18:24:00.012-04:00

Recently, I was among the lucky eighteen kitchen designers invited to attend an event at Summerhill LCBO given by Thermador to introduce their new Steam & Convection Oven. A fabulous lunch was prepared with step-by-step instructions by Chef Cory Vitello from Toronto's The Harbord Room, using this unique appliance. I have a Thermador wall oven with microwave and warming drawer in my own kitchen and absolutely love it.

Here's a photo of Chef Cory Vitello preparing to start the meal.

Here I am totally absorbed in tasting the first course. That's me in the animal print top. I had a chance to chat at length with my table mate, guest Monica Schnarre, successful Canadian model (seated at the end of the table).

Let the sun shine in

2011-06-13T15:16:00.004-04:00

My client recently moved into her lakefront condo with floor to ceiling windows. She loved the views and was reluctant to cover them up. Privacy was not an issue, but the sun's UV rays were. Cognizant of the problems with having no shades - fading of hardwood flooring and furniture, UV protection of herself as well as the heat from a southwest exposure - she thought she had no choice but to cover up. I advised her that there was an option that several of my other condo clients with fabulous views have opted for: Prestige window film by 3M.

I love 3M Prestige Window Films because:

they reject up to 97% of the sun’s heat to help keep your home cool and lower your energy bills.

they are designed to reduce the effects of solar heat and light on your furnishings, and

they will block up to 99.9% of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, which is the single largest cause of fading.

Stay cool, protect your furnishings and save on your energy bill…something worth thinking about. For more information, please contact Tobi Brockway Interiors.

Chair Affair 2011 at Furniture Bank

2011-05-27T17:30:00.000-04:00

Last year, I participated in Furniture Bank's first Chair Affair. This fund-raising event showcased the creative makeovers of 31 Toronto-area designers and artists, who donated their talents and their time to transform ordinary chairs from the Furniture Bank’s warehouse. About 375 guests were in attendance on October 31^st at The Steam Whistle Brewery for the silent auction. The plain black chair that I turned into a cute pink chair for a little girl's room received quite a few bids during the Silent Auction.

This year, Furniture Bank is holding Chair Affair 2011 on September 21st at the Steam Whistle Brewery. I encourage you to check it out and help support this worthy cause.

Recycling TV's and other Electronic Equipment

2011-05-16T16:21:00.005-04:00

Our TV broke down recently and it turns out that it would cost more then to replace it. At least that's the explanation my husband gave me when he purchased a brand new 46" 3D HD TV! For those of you who follow my blog, you know that I really feel strongly about reuse, recycle, re. So how does one avoid putting the old TV in landfill?

According to the City of Toronto’s web-site, if we lived in a single family residence, we could get curb-side collection of the TV if it is placed beside the garbage bin. A different style of truck from the regular garbage truck will pick up all electronics for either recycling or safe disposal. However, since we live in a condo, we can place the TV at a collection spot designated by the property manager for collection of bulky items.

For those of you who live in Toronto, the City of Toronto website has more information. For those of you who live in other parts of the province or country, check out the Ontario Electronic Stewardship website.

http://www.recycleyourelectronics.ca/Electronics/Default.aspx

Dayle David Laing

Colour Trends

2011-05-15T21:04:00.003-04:00

Colour is always an exciting way to awaken a space. Injecting new colour can be done inexpensively through the use of cushions and accent pieces and can keep your space look alive and up to date.

In 2011, grey continues to be a hot neutral. Grey works wonderfully as a neutral because it’s less stark than black or white, but can still provide a great backdrop for bold colours to be their best. Grey can be either warm with overtones of taupe, or it can be cool with the addition of blue, evoking the feeling of steel.

To pair with your fabulous new grey neutral, think about using citrine or popsickle yellow. Or a colour that packs a punch - purple. Purple brings up feelings of luxury and decadence. Purple’s rich colour pairs wonderfully with other vibrant colours, and works well in both cool and warm seasons.

Lastly, blues and turquoise. Blue brings peace and serenity to spaces. If your life is hectic, and you need some tranquillity in your home, try some blue cushions, a rug, and artwork. Navy, cornflower, sea foam, azure, agean…blue comes in so many hues your options really are endless! But it also makes a nice balance to all the vibrancy of the greens and purples.

Community Environment Days

2011-05-06T15:46:00.003-04:00

Spring has finally arrived! Let’s celebrate!

With the arrival of spring comes a sense of renewal and freshness. We look forward to breathing the fresh, clean spring air. We get reacquainted with our neighbours in the community after a long winter indoors. We pack up our winter clothes and boots. And we get rid of unused or unwanted things that are taking up valuable space in our homes.

Each year, Toronto holds a Community Environment Day in different parts of the city where we can bring those unwanted and unused items. Help the environment by:

Extending the life of a product by offering it to someone for reuse.
Reducing the amount of waste going to landfill and ensure that it is properly recycled.
Ensuring that hazardous waste materials are disposed of safely.

Happy Spring!

Guest Appearance on HGTV

2011-04-02T10:49:00.007-04:00

You may have noticed that I've been remiss with updating this blog for quite a while. Unfortunately, time commitments and other circumstances have interfered with the best of my intentions. I commit to providing regular posts from this point on and welcome your comments and questions.

Exciting news to report: I appear on "The Adventures of Ambrose Price" on Sunday at 9:30pm on HGTV (Channel 46 in the Toronto area). The photo shoot took place last year at my client's home. Marion graciously agreed to allow me to showcase her master ensuite bathroom that we had completely renovated. Watch Sunday as I provide Ambrose with tips on bathroom design.

Here are a couple of photos from the shoot:

Tobi with Anthony Wong, Director, with lighting crew, and Tobi with Ambrose Price, TV Host

WELCOME

2010-10-15T21:08:00.000-04:00

What do I want to accomplish with this blog? To provide a source of interesting information that’s of value to homeowners, based on experience and expertise acquired over the years as an accredited Interior Decorator.

Ideally, this blog will be a two-way form of communication as I invite each of you to ask questions and give feedback and suggestions.

So let’s get started – please bookmark this page or even better, subscribe and receive my updates by email.

Wool Rug Facts

2010-09-17T22:15:00.004-04:00

When recommending an area rug, my preference is towards 100% wool, especially for families with children. Here are the reasons why:

Wool resists dirt, retains its appearance and stays cleaner longer. Its natural lanolin helps to repel grime. Its ability to absorb moisture prevents a build-up of static electricity, which means that wool does not attract dust from the air.

Wool is water repellent. The scales on the outside of the fibre cause liquid to roll of the surface, thereby repelling the liquid.

Wool is naturally elastic. Wool can be twisted and stretched and then return to its natural shape. That's why wool carpets retain their springy pile for many years.

Wool insulates against noise. It absorbs sound and reduces noise level considerably.

A high-quality wool rug should last a lifetime so cost should be considered as a long term investment, much like well made furniture. In a future blog, I'll explain how to recognize a high-quality rug.

Living Room Transformation

2010-09-17T21:26:00.004-04:00

There's a fascination for "before" and "after" pictures and this sure holds true for design makeovers. I've had the pleasure of transforming the living space for a wonderful family and thought I'd share it with you.

The "before" is actually an empty room. Our clients moved into a large condo in the St. Clair and Avenue Road area, and while there was some furniture that had to be incorporated into the new space, we designed most of the living room from scratch.

The "after" shot shows the cold stark space transformed into a comfortable, elegant room.

Using a colour palette of grays and creams, with contrasting dark wood, we achieved our clients' desire for serenity while the uniquely designed furniture, including the Art Deco piano, reflects the taste and personality of our clients.

For more photos, check out the newest sample in our Portfolio.

Clients' Finds

2010-09-06T15:07:00.004-04:00

Every once in a while my clients tell me about something they've found that they think I'd like to share with others. Here are a few:

Margaret loves to bake but the hard slate kitchen floor in her condo (which she decided to live with for the time being) was causing discomfort especially in her knees. She purchased a gel-filled anti-fatigue floor mat from GelPro. These mats come in assorted colours and sizes and Margaret says it's made a huge difference when she's on her feet baking.

Amanda wanted to create a princess bed for her three-year-old daughter, Charlotte. She went on-line and found a US site that sells a crown that mounts on the wall. She added the fabric to it. Princess Charlotte loves it!

This crown can be found at Horchow. Amanda couldn't order it on-line to ship to Canada but she says ordering it by phone was very efficient.

Helen found a fabulous website that provides lettering for walls. There is a bulkhead facing her bed in the bedroom that can't be seen anywhere else in her condo. She is planning to put up an inspirational saying on the bulkhead to inspire her as she wakes each morning. I've checked it out and have ordered my designers' sample kit. I intend on adding this to my repertoire. For more information, look at Wonderful Graffiti.

California Shutters vs. Window Treatments

2010-08-16T12:02:00.006-04:00

While I'm a fan of California shutters for family rooms and bathrooms, I feel that there are so many other options available for bedrooms, living rooms and dining rooms: beautiful fabrics provide colour and texture while blinds provide privacy and black-out when needed. Sheers are also a great way to ensure privacy while creating a romantic or elegant ambiance.

However, many of my clients install California shutters before they hire an interior designer and are reluctant to remove them. It's a leap of faith when they agree to my recommendation to add a window treatment to the shutters in order to bring warmth into a room. Once they're installed, though, they see the effect immediately. I have some before and after photos of the most recent example of this situation.

Here is the my client's office where we wanted to add some femininity as well as fabric to soften the dark built-in desk, leather chair and panelled walls.

Here is their bedroom with a lovely bay window. By adding the drapery panels as well as replacing the leather love seat with a fabric chaise lounge, the space is so much more warm and serene.

Makeover of the Month

2010-07-29T11:10:00.008-04:00

I've just found out that several visitors to our Tobi Brockway Interiors website have linked in from sweetspot.ca. Turns out that our Makeover of the Month featured on www.homeinteriorguide.com has been picked up by Sweetspot. Kind of weird to see comments about my work posted by complete strangers but at least it's all positive!

This client's makeover is not shown in our website portfolio, but it's a perfect example of how to rejuvenate and update a room by adding new wall colours, window treatments, rugs and artwork. To keep within the budget, we repurposed whatever we could.

Here's a "before" photo of our client's kitchen.

The kitchen was transformed with a new and unique triangle-shaped table which becomes the focal point, new wall colours, light fixture and window treatments. The chairs and accessories are all the originals.

We painted the 80's fireplace in their new "music room", creating a more contemporary look. We also painted their slate fireplace in the living room a beautiful espresso brown. This is an inexpensive alternative to ripping out and replacing a brick fireplace surround. Just make sure to ask your paint supplier to recommend the right primer to ensure that the paint adheres properly.

Furniture Fitness

2010-07-14T21:17:00.004-04:00

You can extend the life of your furniture cushions by following these tips:

1. Vacuum once a week with particular attention to cracks and crevices.

2. Always have upholstered furniture professionally cleaned.

3. If your upholstered furniture has reversible cushions, turn and rotate them once a week for longer wear.

NORWALK Furniture has put together this "Furniture Fitness" to restore your cushions and pillows:

NORWALK Furniture closed its retail stores but their US-manufactured product line has recently become available in Ontario through my preferred trade-only supplier, The Decorating Centre. Please contact Tobi Brockway Interiors Inc. for more information.

Safety Information Updated

2010-06-20T21:45:00.003-04:00

Further to my post about the U.S. recall of window blinds, Ikea Canada has announced a recall of 1,767,000 blinds sold from 1998 to 2009. These are blinds without a tension device which means the looped cords are left loose causing a potential risk of strangulation. For more information, please check out the Toronto Star. Ikea is providing a full refund for blinds that are returned.

Unwanted furniture?

2010-05-21T15:29:00.004-04:00

Before a renovation or new room design takes place, my clients are often faced with the challenge of disposing of their old furniture. This can be emotionally difficult when the furniture has sentimental value and there are no family members who want to take it. Or there are situations where there are no offers to buy from craigslist or kijiji and you're stymied how to get rid of it.

I refer my clients and friends to one of my favourite charities, Furniture Bank - which furnishes homes in the Greater Toronto Area for women and children escaping violence, refugees and the homeless. Recycling the furniture that you don't need by donating to Furniture Bank helps in two ways: Firstly, this not-for-proft organization will place your "cast-offs" in the home of a family in need. In 2010, approximately 2,400 homes will be furnished.

Secondly, in 2009, Furniture Bank helped to divert 1100 metric tons of waste from landfills. What does just one metric ton look like? Fourteen sofas - imagine that multiplied by 1100.

So make your life and heart much lighter and help reduce landfill waste at the same time.

Important Safety Information

2010-04-25T13:32:00.004-04:00

For any of you with small children or those who have small children visiting your homes, you should be aware that there has been a recent recall of millions of roman shades and roll-up blinds in the US due to potential strangulation. In response, Health Canada has issued a Safety Advisory. More information can be obtained on the Health Canada website.

For safety tips on how to prevent accidents, visit http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/cps-spc/house-domes/decor/blinds-toles-eng.php

Clients of Tobi Brockway Interiors, who have had roman shades or window blinds installed, will notice that there is a cleat to tie the cords around which is a safety feature for keeping cords out of the reach of children. Please ensure that the cord is wrapped around the cleat at all times. Our workroom keeps us informed of the latest developments in order to ensure that our products meet Health Canada standards.