A Cluster of Lights

In my experience, lighting has the most impact on a space but always seems to be one of the most expensive features. It's hard to grin and bare it, forking out hundreds of dollars for a light fixture...until....you install it and then you realize what a fabulous investment it was. Lighting is often underplayed and overlooked. I would like to turn to Candice Olson on this one. She uses lighting as a trademark in her designs. Not only does she often have a statement chandelier over a coffee table, but generally uses additional sconces on the walls, lamps on tables, and of course, recessed lighting. I love Candice's ability to create that layer of lighting because she knows how much it can change the dimension of a space.

Candice Olson living room design
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The Beginning of The Backyard

I cannot believe I am saying this, but finally, the backyard is getting the TLC it needs. As a recap of how it has looked for the last year and a half, click HERE . The backyard has been on the back burner for many reasons. It's out of my realm of expertise, so I cannot take matters into my own hands, which you know I would have done if I could. I have been collecting my inspiration photos so I can make a space plan, just as I would for an interior space. Once that design has been created, I will share it with you but as you can see from these photos, we are still quite far from the beautifying stages. Here I stand in my dusty backyard in my usual renovating clothes.

A Day of Surprises

This post has nothing to do with renovations, design or decor, but I had to share...

With all that is going on in this world, I had a few contemplative moments today. While watching the morning news about the Boston Marathon, I cried. The sadness came over me, like an emotional wave, while I took in the photos of the aftermath. It was a combination of empathy for those hurt and also, the courage of the patrons who quickly jumped in to help one another.  As humans, we have the ability to surprise each other everyday, whether good or bad. We were surprised by the negative intention behind yesterday's events, but happily surprised at a community that pulled together when it was needed most...

Then mid way through the day, I was confronted with this amazing video. It was another surprise. It's a campaign that Dove has put together. It's a beautiful video that will have you in awe in the end. It's worth the watch.

 We are complex beings, all just trying to find right in this world.Give hugs to your loved ones, and yourself. Love yourself. Thinking of you Boston and everyone involved in this epic event.

xo

Review: Toronto's One Of A Kind Spring Show 2013

I hope everyone had a fabulous Easter weekend, whatever it consisted of. I had the joy of attending the Toronto's One Of A Kind Show on Saturday with my Mom. It was the perfect afternoon of quality time and some serious shopping. My Mom and I have different shopping styles; I like to scan and continue moving, where mom is a bit more thorough. I did appreciate her patience at the show, as it allowed me to stop and inquire about things I likely would have missed. So Mom, I thank you.

When reviewing tradeshows, I like to feature my best pick of the bunch. I noticed the vendors I wrote about last year, had all returned to this year's show, which was really great to see! (see HERE if you missed last year's review). They still have great stuff but let's spread the love around on some new artists this time. An exciting element to this year's show was the curated Etsy section, which housed, none other than hand picked Etsy artists.

The Etsy Section

Cappellini - Quality From Across the Globe

Last week, at the Design Exchange in Toronto, I had the pleasure to listen to the master mind behind Cappellini, Guilio Cappellini. Based out of Italy, this design guru, has scanned the globe to find innovative designer's to work with and create magnificent, unique pieces of furniture. This concept is reminiscent of the company, Herman Miller, another uber successful production company that has nurtured creative furniture prototypes from various artists and designers alike. Cappellini's love for design and manufacturing well made, quality products was evident during his talk, as well as his passion to find undiscovered, talented artists to represent.

Guillo Cappellini next to the Revolving Pyramid (via)

Rainbow Chair by Patrick Norguet

One Of A Kind Show Ticket Giveaway!

The One Of A Kind Spring Show and Sale is fast approaching. How did that happen? It's Easter, already? My, how the time flies. For this year's Spring show, I am happy to announce that the kind people running the show has asked if I would like to offer my fabulous readers some free tickets. Naturally, I said yes. I love finding ways to give back, and so....who wants to go?

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If you aren't familar with the show, it is an annual Toronto tradition that has been running for decades. What one may use to call a "craft show", has now turned into what I would call a major artisan show, featuring everything from specialty foods, hand crafted home goods, fashion pieces and others alike. And this year,  hand picked Esty artists/shops will be featured at the show! 

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So how about we get to how you can ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS for this year's show? It's simple, just follow these few steps and you will be entered into the draw. The more steps you do, the more chances you have to win.

1.  Leave a comment below on the blog and tell me why you love the One of A Kind Show. (1st chance to win)

2. Go to The Reno Projects Facebook page, "Like" the Reno Projects. (2nd chance to win). If you already like the page, share it the link with a friend! (2nd chance to win).

3. And if you are a die hard and want one more chance to win, follow on Twitter for a 3rd chance to win!

Don't forget to share this with a friend. It is a pair of tickets, so the two of you can go together. The contest closes on Thursday, and announced on the same day! So make sure to keep your eyes and ears out for the winners!

Good luck :)