Blog - Inspiration

Upgrading your standard bed frame to an adjustable bed frame or base can offer a host of lifestyle and health benefits. For example, adjustable bed frames and bases allow you to change position with the touch of a button, comfortably watch TV, elevate your head or feet or be in a different sleep or lounging position than your partner. Whether it’s the first time you’re going bed shopping, or you’re looking to upgrade your existing bed, learn more about the benefits of an adjustable base so you can be sure you’re making the most informed purchasing decision. Read on to find out more about the benefits of adjustable bed frames, the different types of adjustable bed frames and how you can style this type of bed.

Benefits of an Adjustable Base

While an adjustable base for your bed may come at a slightly higher price point, the benefits pay off in terms of your comfort and long-term health. Read on to learn more about these well-being perks.

Easier to Lounge

With an adjustable base, you can reposition the bed to provide maximum comfort for reading, watching TV or even working in bed. In addition, by adjusting the mattress to easily sit up or lay down, you don’t have to prop yourself up with stacks of pillows anymore.

Health Benefits

It’s no secret that your quality of sleep dramatically impacts your overall health, mood and well-being. If you’re prone to snoring or acid reflux, elevating your head can help alleviate these symptoms. If you have poor circulation in your legs, you can raise the foot of the bed to elevate your legs when you sleep.

Adjust to Your Sleep Position and Sleep Habits

Depending on your preferred sleep position, you can customize the base to accommodate your desired position. For example, if you favour sleeping on your back, you can adjust both your head and feet until you find a position in which you’re the most comfortable. Also, if your partner is ready to fall asleep but you still have a few more Netflix episodes to watch, you can sit up on your side of the bed while your partner lays down comfortably on the other side.

Types of Adjustable Bases

Because there are so many options to choose from, selecting a bed frame is more manageable after you hone in on the specific benefits you want. Understanding the features that are most important to you will ensure you invest in the best adjustable base for your lifestyle.

Adapts to Your Body Throughout the Night

The technology in the TEMPUR-PEDIC Mattresses with Reflexion® by Sealy Adjustable Base continually adapts to your body’s needs when you sleep to relieve pressure. The wireless remote helps you find your sweet spot, then save the position for consistent comfort.

Benefit from a Personal Masseuse

The Reflexion® by Sealy Arc Queen Adjustable Base forms to your mattress, creating an ergonomically curved space to sink into. The wireless remote’s massage setting is like having a personal masseuse on call. You can also select a range of sleep positions with a touch of a button.

Program Your Sleep Position

Get your best sleep yet, with all the bells and whistles on the Reflexion® by Sealy Arc Queen Adjustable Base. You can select your favourite lounging and sleep position with the wireless remote, then program it so personalized comfort is waiting for you every time you climb into bed. Use the head and foot massagers to erase any tension from the day. This base can stand on its own with adjustable legs, or you can use it inside your current bed frame.

How to Style an Adjustable Bed Frame

To complete your luxurious sleep setup, all you need is to add a fluffy comforter and selection of pillows and you will be ready to have countless nights of deep, restful sleep. But, do you need a boxspring for an adjustable bed frame? The answer is no, not typically. The foundation of the adjustable base serves the role of the boxspring in this type of bed.

If you want to create a peaceful environment, consider a solid white comforter and plenty of down-filled pillows in soothing blues or greens. This calming colour palette creates an atmosphere of rest and repose, and a haven to recharge for the next day.

With multiple lounging positions, health benefits and sleep memory features, adjustable bed frames offer a host of benefits. Whatever your reasoning for making the investment in an adjustable bed frame, your improved sleep quality will pay off.

With the NHL season right around the corner, watching games with friends and family is the best way to cheer on your favorite team. As we’re several months out from the start of the season, it’s time to start planning your viewing parties that nearly three million Canadians will tune into beginning in October. Whether you're cheering on the Montreal Canadiens, the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Vancouver Canucks, the Edmonton Oilers, the Calgary Flames, Ottawa Senators or the Winnipeg Jets, having the optimal setup will result in a comfortable and fun NHL season at home. Read on to find what you need to prepare your house for the NHL season.

Seating To Accommodate a Crowd

When you’re watching NHL games, ensuring your family and friends are comfortable is key to hosting a great viewing party. Upgrading your traditional sofa to a sectional can help your guests settle in comfortably — especially when the games go into overtime. Here are several sectional sofas that will provide ample seating space and a resting spot for spectating, cheering and snacking.

Sleeper sectional with storage: A contemporary sectional, like the Izzy 3-Piece Chenille Left-Facing Sleeper Sectional with Storage Chaise has a contemporary shape, yet its velvety soft chenille fabric softens it. The storage chaise can hide a stack of blankets so you can cuddle up during those cold night games. With plenty of room, you can invite everyone over to relax on this spacious piece.

Sophisticated yet cozy: If you’re looking for a piece that is fashion-forward and comfortable, the Gena 2-Piece Linen-Look Fabric Right-Facing Sectional adds a classic, elegant twist to your hockey viewing party. The deep blue, linen-look fabric stands up against spills and its high-density foam cushions will keep you and your guests comfortable as you settle in to take in the game.

Accommodate a crowd: If your hockey viewing team runs deep, the Riddell 2-Piece Chenille Sectional offers plenty of seating for gatherings. In addition, the chenille fabric is a soft and soothing texture for when emotions run high during close games.

The Main Event

If you’re thinking about upgrading your television, now is the time to do so. The ideal TV size for sports viewing is 55 inches, so if your TV set needs an upgrade, below are some options that are the optimal size and provide superior visual quality when you cheer on your favorite NHL team.

Double duty viewing: With Samsung’s The Frame, you can treat your guests to a hockey game on a 65-inch screen and then have a beautiful piece of art when the game is over. The elegant, modern design will blend flawlessly with your home décor, as it transforms into art when you're not watching TV.

Smart watching: A smart TV, like the Sony BRAVIA is equipped with Google TV, so you can quickly flip between NHL games with the help of the Google Assistant button on the remote. It’s premium OLED picture with contrast and colour that feels deep, natural and real will make you believe the game is in your living room.

Snack Break

No hockey party is complete without snacks to keep your cheering energy up. Make sure you have ample surface area for your snack spread that can accommodate a crowd. Here are several tables that every hockey hosting home needs.

Rustic coffee table: A clean, straight-lined coffee table, like the Watson Coffee Table is the perfect place to set out dips, chips, sandwiches and any other sustenance you need to support your team.

Spacious tabletop: If your guests need a break to enjoy a meal, or you need a larger surface to spread out your hockey viewing party fare, the Aran Dining Table is a classic design with a dark walnut finish.

With a few furniture and technology updates, you can set the scene for a fun NHL season at home. By upgrading your sofa and television size and ensuring you have ample space for snacks, your home will become the go-to NHL hockey party destination in no time.

If your home desperately needs a refresh, modern farmhouse décor may be for you. Modern farmhouse, a style that was made mainstream by Chip and Joanna Gaines, balances traditional country design with contemporary and minimal elements. Rustic, industrial and even mid-century modern accents complete the modern farmhouse aesthetic. Between HGTV, Pinterest and Instagram, the modern farmhouse trend shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Read on to learn how to transform your home into your personal modern farmhouse oasis.

Modern Farmhouse Living Room

Modern farmhouse décor is a blend of modern and relaxed that ultimately creates a livable and approachable vibe. Creating a modern farmhouse living room means selecting comfortable pieces with modern, sleek silhouettes. Industrial accents, such as light fixtures and geometric details often found in accessories like mirrors and art, complete a modern farmhouse vibe. The following are pieces that would complete a modern farmhouse living room.

Modern Farmhouse Entertainment Centre

A modern farmhouse living room isn’t complete without a set of barn doors. The Sydney Barn-Door 6-Piece Entertainment Centre is rustic and refined, with bright white paint that pops against the dark hardware. The barn door rail system allows the doors to smoothly open and close, to display or conceal the television. The planks, matte-finish hardware and crown moulding offer warmth and simplicity to create a perfect focal point.

Modern Farmhouse Sofa

The modern farmhouse aesthetic is designed around neutral colours and clean lines. The Designed2B Flora Linen-Look Fabric Sofa in Cabo Smoke is a medium grey, linen-look sofa. This piece has slim track arms that will easily complement any décor style — modern farmhouse included.

Modern Farmhouse Coffee Table

An oversized coffee table invites you to kick up your feet, rest your beverage and style a modern farmhouse-inspired table vignette. A rugged and rustic option, like the Benjy Coffee Table with Storage, has planks covered in distressed white paint. Its hinged-tabletop rises to conceal plenty of storage and is complete with black metal brackets.

Modern Farmhouse Dining Room

Host dinners for friends and family in a room that is welcoming yet refined. A dining room filled with soft greys, barn door accents and weathered oak are elements that will invite you to remain gathered around the table long after you finish the meal.

Modern Farmhouse Dining Table

A trestle table is right at home in a modern farmhouse dining room or modern farmhouse kitchen. The Keswick Dining Table in Dovetail Grey has a sleek tabletop with ornately shaped table legs that give the appearance of an heirloom piece. If you have extra company for dinner, you can extend this table by using the included butterfly leaves.

Modern Farmhouse Accent Cabinet

Make sure you have easy access to your china, additional glasses or any other tableware you need to enjoy a meal in the dining room. An accent cabinet, such as Marlo Accent Cabinet in White Oak, will bring farmhouse style to any dining room. The barn door slides from side to side to highlight or conceal the pieces you will store on the shelves. This accent cabinet is a rustic white oak, accentuated by dark accent brackets.

Modern Farmhouse Dining Set

Create a more-the-merrier vibe in your dining room by ensuring enough seats for everyone. A complete dining set, like the Ilsa 6-Piece Dining Package has vintage vibes, with a weathered oak tabletop, spacious drawers within the table for extra storage and cushioned chairs to encourage your guests to linger for an evening of post-dinner laughter and conversation.

Modern Farmhouse Bedroom

Create a calming oasis by incorporating rustic yet inviting pieces in your bedroom design scheme. A bedroom with modern farmhouse décor means a place to leave your stresses at the door and sink into your own relaxing retreat.

Modern Farmhouse Bed

A bed fit for a queen belongs in any modern farmhouse bedroom. The Emma Queen Panel Bed is both rustic and elegant. Crisp wainscotting outlines the panelled bed frame, while marks and scuffs accent the bed to add some patina and charm.

Modern Farmhouse Dresser

Ensure you have enough storage space and surface area to display your treasured mementos. The Kaia Dresser has a distressed whitewashed look that creates a feeling of tranquility. Its contrasting black metal drawer pulls create easy drawer access while also giving it a modern farmhouse edge.

Modern Farmhouse Nightstand

A bedroom design plan isn’t complete until it includes a set of matching nightstands. The Abby Nightstand comes in a light white finish, complemented by dark drawer pulls. The piece has ample interior storage while also having enough surface area for a lamp, books and a place to set your water glass.

Whether you’re redesigning your whole home or replacing a few pieces, modern farmhouse décor blends various styles that create one cohesive and updated look. From barn doors to wainscoting, the modern farmhouse aesthetic creates an atmosphere that is inviting, relaxing and will encourage you to kick up your feet and stay awhile.

Buying a new refrigerator is an investment that is typically required every 10 years. Since this is such an infrequent purchase, knowing when you need one and what type you need can be an overwhelming endeavor. Summer is the optimal time for fridge use because of the increased consumption of cold beverages, popsicles and chilled meals.

This guide will break down when you need to swap out your old refrigerator for a new one, the telltale signs that it’s time to let go of your old fridge and some little-known tips on choosing the best fridge for your home and lifestyle.

Is Your Old Fridge Showing Any of These Signs?

Before it’s time to buy a new refrigerator, your fridge may give you some signs that it's on its last legs, and it’s time for you to invest in a new model. Here are some red flags to be aware of, so you can begin shopping around for a new fridge.

Low-Energy Efficiency

If your recent energy bills have seemed excessively high, your refrigerator may be to blame. Older fridge models can consume more electricity than newer models, which results in a higher electric bill. When you’re shopping for a new fridge, look for models that have an ENERGY STAR® certification. Refrigerators with this qualification can consume almost 10 percent less energy than older or less efficient models.

Excessive Motor Heat

If the back of your refrigerator feels hot, it likely means the refrigerator motor is overheating. If your fridge is newer and is still under warranty, a professional fridge repair may be your best option. However, if your refrigerator is older than 10 years, it may be time to replace it.

Do you hear your fridge’s motor constantly running? This can also be a sign that the motor may be close to burning out. If the motor sounds like it’s constantly operating at maximum speed, this may be another sign for a new fridge.

Food Spoilage

There’s always going to be some food in the fridge that has lasted longer than its expiration date. However, if your food is spoiling faster than it should, this could signal that there’s a problem that your fridge isn’t cooling down as it should. If your refrigerator's temperature is at the correct number and the fridge still isn’t cooling down, it’s probably time to replace it with a newer model.

Signs of Condensation

If condensation is developing in your fridge, this indicates that it may not be working correctly. Condensation is a sign that your fridge is working overtime to do its job. Have a professional take a look to be sure there’s not a simple fix. If not, it’s time to consider investing in a new fridge.

What to Look For In Your New Fridge

With so many brands, styles and sizes of refrigerators on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine the best option for you. Below is a breakdown of the different refrigerator models and what option may be the best fit for your home and lifestyle.

Fridge Style

With so many different configurations available, it can feel impossible to narrow down the best option for you. Here are some of the most common fridge configurations.

• Top-freezer: This is a traditional style with the freezer on the top and fresh food compartment on the bottom. A top freezer model can often accommodate smaller spaces like apartments or cabins, and may be your best bet for the best bargain.
• Bottom-freezer: An inverse of the top freezer, this style has a larger fresh food compartment on top and the freezer on the bottom. This model may be best suited for your household if you prefer fresh food within closer reach.
• Side-by-side: In this layout, the freezer and food compartments are next to each other and span the full height of the appliance. This style provides easy access to both compartments and is easy to organize.
• French-door: This style of refrigerator offers the convenience of multiple fridge styles. You get the easy access of the side-by-side fresh food compartment, and ample freezer storage below.

Fridge Colour

Like most appliances, refrigerators come in several different finishes. The most common fridge finishes are stainless steel, black stainless steel and white. It helps to choose your new fridge’s finish based on your existing appliances and the overall design scheme.

Fridge Size

Refrigerators come in a variety of sizes. One of the biggest questions is whether or not to get a counter-depth fridge. This means that the depth of the refrigerator will align with the countertops, which results in a custom look. However, they are slightly smaller than standard size refrigerators and are also more expensive.

An extra-large fridge may be an option if you have a big family or store large quantities of food at home. A bigger-capacity fridge also comes with a higher electric bill. If you believe you need an extra-large fridge, it’s essential to measure its proximity to other features in the space to ensure you have ample clearance when walking past and opening the doors.

Alternatively, if you live in a smaller space and you’re cooking for one, a compact fridge may be the best choice for your home.

While there is plenty to consider when investing in a new refrigerator, knowing when to buy a new fridge can help you prepare to make a quick decision if your old fridge goes out. Understanding the styles, colours and sizes before you start shopping can make an overwhelming shopping trip feel much more manageable.

Whether you bought a new house or you’re redesigning your existing home, the seating you choose will have a significant impact on the look and feel of your space. Knowing the different types of seating you need in each room will make creating a design plan easier. This guide will break down the different types of seating each room in your home needs so you have optimal function and style.

Kitchen seating

As the heart of the home, comfortable kitchen seating is a must. In many kitchens, the best conversations often take place around the kitchen island. Having comfortable yet functional kitchen seating invites friends and family to stay longer and create more memories.

Island Stools

A plush counter-height stool, like the Eden Counter-Height Stool, is a comfortable seat you and your guests can sink into as you gather around the kitchen island. This mid-century modern version offers a strong base with a foam-filled seat, which results in an elegant design and cozy spot to sit.

A faux-leather stool, like the Coty Counter-Height Chair, is a chic way to offer counter seating. The curved stitch lines provide a decorative flair, while the footrest will keep you comfortable during meals, cocktail hour and everything in between.

A backless stool, like the Knox Dining Stool, is an excellent space-saving choice. A more relaxed style, this slim design can easily slide under the counter to save space when not in use.

Dining Chairs

If you have a dine-in kitchen, having comfortable yet practical chairs is essential for your kitchen table.

A retro and Scandinavian-style chair, like the Prato Dining Chair, is a perfect option for busy families. The curved plastic seat can be easily wiped down after busy mealtimes. This minimalist chair is simply elegant in its design and can accommodate a date night or a packed table of after-school snackers.

A more traditional option, the Santa Fe Rusticos Solid Pine Dining Chair is a hand-crafted pinewood chair that offers rustic warmth and charm to your kitchen.

Dining Room seating

The dining room is host to many events ranging from once-a-year special occasions to more minor daily activities. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner, an anniversary date night or using the table to sit and quietly do a puzzle, having optimal dining room seating is key to being comfortable.

If you need a complete seating set, a dining package may be the best choice for you. A package like the Alto 6-Piece Rectangular Dining Table Package offers both dining chairs, as well as a bench, for seating variety. This package includes seating in a distressed, grey-brown finish and exudes rustic charm.

Dining room chairs are typically defined as side chairs. Plush dining chairs, like the Shilo Dining Chair, invite you to sit down and to stay awhile. The curved back provides extra comfort during long, leisurely meals and the sloped sides offer additional stability. You can create a uniformed look by filling the dining table with a complete set of the same chairs. Or, you can mix it up with a set of wing-back chairs at each end of the table. An option like the York Wingback Dining Chair is a traditional style that offers sophistication to your dining room. The high-density foam seat and backrest provide next-level comfort.

Living room seating

As the designated relaxing and lounging space, living room seating needs to be inviting and durable while still being beautiful. Designing both a functional and stylish living room is an art. To accomplish this balance, the first place to start is by space planning the layout. This will help you ensure that you maximize the space you have and that the pieces you select will fit. There are seemingly unlimited living room seating options, but the below breaks down the types of living room seating and why you might need it.

Sectional

If you have a large family, like to host movie nights or sports viewing parties, then a sectional might be best for you. A sectional like the Izzy 3-Piece Chenille Left-Facing Sleeper Sectional with Storage Chaise can host countless family nights, neighbourhood gatherings and kids slumber parties. This soft chenille sectional creates a cozy spot to snuggle in, while the storage in the chaise lounge is perfect for storing extra pillows or blankets.

Sofa

A stylish, jewel-toned velvet sofa can be the room’s focal point for a statement piece while still offering a comfortable spot to lounge. The Brielle Velvet Sofa is finished in rich, blue velvet that is inviting, cozy and refined.

Recliner

Recliners don’t have to be over-stuffed, leather eyesores. A recliner in a sleek silhouette can be a beautiful accent piece while still offering the comfort you crave after a long day. A version like the Zoe Bonded Leather Pushback Accent Recliner will add a modern look to your living room with its refined, clean lines. However, once you recline back, the only feature you will be focused on is the plush, padded cushion.

Living Room Chair

If you’re looking for seating that offers more comfort than an accent chair but is smaller than a sofa, then a lounge chair may be your answer. An option like the Ainsley Linen-Look Fabric Chair-and-a-Half is made for relaxing. The extra-wide frame offers plenty of room to curl up and the low-profile armrests make it a stylish focal piece. Its neutral linen fabric is the perfect backdrop to swap out seasonal throw pillows and blankets.

Filling a home with furniture can feel like a significant endeavor, but with careful planning and research, selecting the right pieces can help your home feel like the sanctuary you deserve. Choosing the best seating for your lifestyle can provide the R&R you never knew you were missing.

When you’re decorating a whole house, the process can feel exhausting and overwhelming. It’s easy to focus on the larger pieces your space needs, such as a sofa, chairs and dining set, and call it a day. If you feel like something is missing in the room and you can't place your finger on it, you may have forgotten about the accent pieces that complete a space: side tables and console tables.

Side tables and console tables are important pieces to include in your design scheme from both a functional standpoint and when considering the room's aesthetic. This guide will explain how to seamlessly integrate side tables and console tables into your home’s design, from the living room to the bedroom.

Living Room Side Tables

Side tables are more than just an accent piece – they play an important role in how you and your guests can comfortably use your space. Side tables are a surface on which to set a lamp, rest your drink and style your favourite coffee table books and family photos. As a general rule, all seats should have a place where you and your guests can set a drink and a snack.

Side Table Design Tips

When selecting side tables for your living room, don’t feel like you must purchase an entire matching set. You can achieve a designer look by investing in complementary pieces. For example, instead of buying a complete living room furniture set, you can still achieve a beautiful look with coordinating independent pieces. One way to do this is by selecting furniture pieces that are different styles but in the same shade of wood to create a cohesive yet interesting space. Below are several design tips on pairing furniture pieces to ensure that your room achieves a one-of-a-kind, yet visually pleasing look.

• Design Tip 1: Pair your side tables with a matching console table but in different hues. Pair a gray console table, like the Clary Accent Table, with blue side tables, like the Marseille Chairside Table.
• Design Tip 2: Pair a set of marble side tables, like the Mia Faux Marble Chairside Table with a dark gray accent cabinet, like the Darci Accent Cabinet, to bring complementary tones with contrasting textures into your living room.
• Design Tip 3: Pair a square wood coffee table with octagon end tables, like the Cleo Chairside Table, or round end tables like the Nashik accent table. While these don’t need to be part of a set, there should be a unifying element such as the same tone of wood.

Side Table Styling

Styling your side tables can be approached from a purely functional aspect or can be a place to showcase your unique design aesthetic. You may want your side table to be a place on which to hold a table lamp and a drink and provide a cute set of coaster to protect the surface. Or, if you want to elevate your side table’s look further, you can style it with a stack of books, a decorative bowl, a candle or a treasured family photograph.

Bedroom Side Tables

Whether you call them nightstands or end tables, a bedroom isn’t complete until two tables flank the bed. While the bedside tables don’t need to be part of the same dresser set, they should match each other to create a uniform look. However, if an eclectic vibe is more your style, you can anchor the two different tables with coordinating table lamps to bring in a unifying element.

Bedside Table Function

When shopping for a bedside table, size and storage are two essential qualities. A bedside table should be between 24 - 28 inches tall. This is usually the same height as the mattress. This height recommendation allows for the most convenient access to the table from the bed, as well as for the most cohesive visual design.

If you have a smaller bedroom, you can trick the eye into seeing a larger space by using bedside tables with a clear top like glass or Lucite. The Roxy Chairside Table creates additional visual space with its glass tabletop.

Ample storage is essential in a bedside table. Storage can even be considered the most important feature. The Rocco Blue Chairside Table allows for plenty of storage to hold your TV remote, books, phone and tablets. The Rocco table also includes two hidden power outlets and USB ports to keep your devices charged, without tangled, unsightly cords. Bedside tables with ample storage help the surface stay clear, to create a serene, clutter-free setting.

Bedside Table Styling

Keeping your bedside table clean goes a long way. Not only will minimal items help lend to a relaxing environment, but you won’t risk knocking over items in the dark. Keep your nightstand decor to the essentials, such as a table lamp, clock, a water carafe and perhaps a framed family photo.

A thoughtfully selected side table has the power to tie your space together while also making it more comfortable. Whether you’re looking for side tables for your living room or bedroom, tables that boast both form and function can be the missing elements your room needs.