Blog - Inspiration

Since buying a new bed frame isn’t a frequent activity, purchasing one may feel overwhelming. Besides showcasing your unique style, a bed frame is necessary because it supports the box spring and keeps it secure. Placing a boxspring directly on the floor will scratch the floors and risk the mattress sliding off. A bed frame is also the main design element in the room and often is also the focal point. Read on to learn more about what to look for in a bed frame, when you need a boxspring, choosing a bed frame, and how you can style a bed frame.

What to Look for In a Bed Frame

Before selecting a bed frame’s design, you need to understand your functional requirements to ensure you choose the structure that will give you the best night’s sleep. Below are common factors to consider when you’re bed frame shopping.

• Mattress size: If you already have a mattress, the bed frame needs to match the size of your mattress (i.e. if you have a king-size mattress, you will need a king-size bed frame).
• Bedroom size: If you are buying an entirely new bed and are debating on sizes, factor in that you need three feet of clearance around the sides and foot of the bed so you can comfortably move around the room.
• Bed frame height: If you prefer to be lower to the ground, a platform bed or a low-profile bed frame may be the best choice for you. If you want more visual height or have mobility issues, a taller bed frame may be best for you.
• Bed frame material: Bed frames typically are made of wood and metal. High quality wood and high quality metal are comparable in construction, so the choice ultimately comes down to appearance.

When Do You Need a Boxspring?

A boxspring is necessary if you have a wood or metal bed frame. Most bed frames aren’t strong enough to support a mattress, so a boxspring is needed for extra support and weight distribution. If you have a platform bed, you don’t need a boxspring.

Choosing a Bed Frame

There are many different bed frame designs from which to choose. As long as the frame can securely support your mattress, choosing a bed frame typically comes down to the style you want. Below breaks down the different types of standard bed frames.

• Traditional bed frame: A standard bed frame consists of a head, foot and sides to secure the mattress on all four sides, such as the Passages Queen Bed . It is typically rectangular and can be upholstered, wood or metal.
• Platform bed frame: A platform bed frame offers mattress support, has a modern design and eliminates the need for a boxspring. The Mila Queen Platform Bed is a great pick when looking for a platform bed.
• Storage bed frame: Like a platform bed, a storage bed frame doesn’t require a boxspring. A storage bed frame has drawers and compartments at the base and can reduce the number of additional furniture pieces you may need. A storage bed, like the Abby Queen Side Storage Bed, is helpful in a smaller room.
• Adjustable bed frame: An adjustable bed frame is multi-hinged and can help you comfortably sit up in bed, let you lounge in a different position than your partner, and remember your preferred sleep position. You will also need a mattress that is compatible with an adjustable bed frame.

How To Style a Room with a New Bed Frame

To complete your room’s new look, accessorizing your new bed with varying materials and textures will make your space feel complete. A crisp set of sheets, a plush comforter and an array of pillows in a calming color palette will invite you in and entice you to stay.

A thoughtfully selected bed frame will add both function and style to the bedroom and make your bedroom feel uniquely you. Whether it's a traditional bed frame, a platform bed, or an adjustable bed frame, a bed frame is the key to a good night’s rest and a beautiful bedroom.

An open concept home creates a spacious and airy feel and is ideal for entertaining and families with young children. The openness also maximizes the square footage of livable space. However, creating distinct areas within an open floor plan can feel challenging because of the lack of walls and hallways. Read on to learn creative room divider ideas to separate your open concept room so you can maximize every square inch of functional living space.

Separate Seating Spaces

In an open concept home, the floor plan is the first step to creating distinct spaces. One of the easiest ways to divide a room is the way you position your furniture. For every separate area, arrange the furniture towards each other, so each zone has a conversation area. This configuration also means the back of the furniture will face the different zones, creating a visual ending of one space and beginning of the next.

Below is a suggested furniture combination to create a distinct seating space in a living room, separate from the other areas of the open concept.

• An elegant, linen-coloured sectional: A neutral sectional, like the Jairo 3-Piece Linen-Look Fabric Sectional, provides ample seating and is a foundational piece that creates sual lines to define a living area.
• A navy accent chair: An accent chair in a bold, yet neutral color, such as the Sylvie Linen-Look Fabric Modular Chair, serves as both a statement piece, as well as a functional seat.

• Coffee table: Every seat in the sitting area should have immediate access to a flat surface to rest a beverage, book or snack. Nesting coffee table in the center of the furniture layout, similar to the Veranasi Nesting Coffee Tables, provides the benefit of a singular coffee table, with the option of separating the two tables to provide extra surface space.

Rug Rules

Rugs are an excellent way to define particular areas in an open floor plan. To create distinct zones, every space should have its own rug. This more or less draws a line around that particular area. A fool-proof equation is as follows:

• Entryway: Lay down a runner that goes from the front door down the hallway.
• Dining area: Place an area rug that goes under the dining table and chairs. The rug should extend beyond the chairs when you pull them out from the table.

Scandi Kitchen →
• Living area: Use an area rug under the sofa, accent seating and coffee table. The rug should anchor the furniture. The front legs — if not all of the legs — of the sofa and chairs should be on the rug.

Selecting neutral rugs will provide visual continuity and allow you to layer different, coordinating colors within each space. An off-white linen rug, like the Ankara Linen Area Rug, will coordinate with nearly every style and color.

Create Space with Console Tables

Console tables can serve as a room divider and visually break up different living spaces within an open concept space. Placing a console table behind a sofa, for example, creates a partition to mark where the living area ends and the dining area begins. Styling the console table with lamps, frames and decorative accents adds additional height, creating more separation.

A neutral console table, like the Kimberly Hall Table doubles as a functional storage solution as well, which is necessary in an open floor plan.

Bring In Bookcases

A bookcase has a similar effect on an open floor plan room as a console table, but it offers more privacy because of its height. Several bookcases side by side can create the impact of a wall due to the height they offer. When you’re shopping for bookcases, make sure that they are either open shelving or finished on the back.

A bookcase that is open on top and has storage on the bottom, like the Taryn Office Credenza, is ideal for an open concept space. The open top creates a seamless divide between areas, and the sliding doors on the lower quadrant provides hidden storage space.

Open concept floor plans are a great way to make your home feel more extensive and expansive, but creating distinct zones can make the space more functional and visually warmer. Now that you know how to divide a room, a few strategic furniture adjustments, coupled with adding some new pieces, will create an open concept that is both airy and cozy at the same time.

Lighting is an essential design element. It serves a highly functional role and can also transform the aesthetic of a space. There are many different types of lighting to choose from — all lending a unique and different look. Pendant lighting — a light fixture that hangs from the ceiling via a chain, rod or cord — can be the room's statement piece if selected strategically. Pendant lighting is typically hung over a kitchen island, dining table, entry hall or centre of a room. Read on to learn more about the various pendant light styles and how to incorporate lighting design throughout your space.

Types of Pendant Lights

When you’re considering pendant lighting solutions, the styles and options can feel endless. Because of various types, sizes and shapes, pendant lighting can be incredibly versatile. Additionally, pendant lighting saves space since these pieces hang from the ceiling and don’t take up surface and floor space. Whether you’re looking to create a coastal, glam, mid-century modern or transitional space, there is a pendant light design for you. The following are the most common types of pendant lights.

Drum Pendant Light

A drum pendant light resembles the shape of the classic percussion instrument and is available in different sizes and colours, depending on your design. Drum pendants, like the Arkas Pendant Ceiling Light, often come in a white linen fabric which gives off a soft glow, while adarker shade creates a more dramatic effect by blocking some of the light shining through.

Where to use drum pendant lighting:

• Use two or three in a row to illuminate the kitchen island
• Hang a statement piece above your dining table
• Illuminate a reading nook in a family room or living room

Globe Pendant Light

This type of pendant light has a round shape and is typically a mid-century modern style. Globe pendant lights are usually made of clear glass and have a sleek look that eliminates visual clutter. This transparency results in a bright glow. As demonstrated by the Pavo Minor and Major Pendant Ceiling Lights, globe pendants look great independently or together to achieve a stunning statement.

Where to use globe lighting:

• Hang above a powder room sink
• Illuminate a long hallway
• Install two or three over a kitchen island

Bowl Pendant light

Classic and functional, a bowl pendant light may be the most commonly used pendant light. The bowl may face upwards or downwards, which impacts the direction the light is cast. For example, a bowl that faces upwards provides ambient light, while a bowl that is directed down –such as the Pegasus Minor and Major Pendant Ceiling Lights – provide task lighting.

Where to use bowl lighting:

• Hang above a workspace for task lighting
• Create ambient lighting in a dining room, with a dining table as an anchor
• Install above an armchair in your living room

Exposed Bulb Pendant Light

If you’re looking for an industrial or rustic type of lighting, an exposed bulb pendant light (also known as an Edison light) like the Ursa Major Pendant Ceiling Light is a minimal design. An exposed bulb pendant is simply a light fixture and bulb — no shade required.

Where to use exposed bulb lighting:

• Create task lighting over a kitchen sink
• Illuminate an entryway
• Stagger above a dining table

Mini Pendant Light

A mini pendant light is a scaled-down version of a standard pendant light and works best in smaller spaces. You can group multiple mini pendant lights, like the Sirius Pendant Ceiling Light, to create a visual statement and create a more significant light source. When grouping mini pendant lights, select an odd number of lights to make the most visually appealing design.

Where to use mini pendant lighting:

• To create task lighting in a smaller space, like a laundry room
• Hang in a closet
• Group multiple lights over a dining table or workstation

Cage Pendant Light

A cage pendant light, also known as a lantern light, has a framed silhouette, usually in the shape of a lantern. Sometimes there are glass panes in the lantern, but the frames can also be open. Depending on the style, there can be a single light bulb in the cage, like the Arion Pendant Ceiling Light, or a multi-light candelabra, like the Brahe Pendant Ceiling Light.

Where to use cage pendant lighting:

• Hang in the foyer as a statement piece
• Use as a focal point in the dining room
• Use two oversized pendant lights over a kitchen island

Chandelier Lighting

Chandeliers may make you think of luxury and extravagance; however, the wide variety of styles and sizes can work in any space (the Dalia Ceiling Light is a more modern take on the classic chandelier). Although chandeliers can make a statement in an entryway or hallway, they can also make even the most casual dining area feel extra special or add an element of grandeur to a primary bedroom.

When you’re creating a lighting design plan for your home, understanding the different types of pendant lighting can help. Whether you’re looking to highlight your kitchen island, create task lighting above your workspace or have ambient lighting to relax in the living room, pendant lighting can provide the visual impact your space needs.

Mixing wood tones in your home is the secret to creating a layered and intentional designer look. If your home has a single wood tone throughout, you can risk the space looking flat. On the other hand, incorporating different wood tones and finishes offers depth and creates a visually interesting and collected environment. However, knowing which tones work with each other can feel complicated. While there isn’t a magic formula to mix and match wood finishes, there are a few tips to keep in mind as you begin layering in these different tones. Read on to gain insight into mixing wood tones throughout the home.

Pick A Dominant Wood Tone

Choosing a dominant wood tone will provide a base on which to layer different wood tones and other colours. Selecting the primary tone will ensure everything feels cohesive and complements each other. Depending on the room type, it’s likely the dominant wood tone will be in a larger surface area such as the floors or cabinets. If it’s a room without wood tones, such as a carpeted living room, the dominant tone should be reserved for the largest piece of furniture, such as an entertainment centre.

Match The Undertones

Once you’ve selected your dominant wood tone, you can choose other wood tones to layer into the space. Making sure the wood undertones are in the same family will help ensure a cohesive look and feel. For example, if your dominant wood is warm, it’s best to select accent woods with warm undertones. The same holds for cooler wood tones.

Use Each Wood At Least Twice

Now that you know the undertones in your dominant wood surface area, you can begin layering in the other complementary woods. To create a cohesive look that offers depth and interest, use each wood at least twice so it looks intentionally layered. Also, space out the different wood tones to avoid grouping similar items together to create balance. For example, if all your light-toned woods are grouped on one side of the room and all your dark-toned woods are on another side, the room can look unbalanced. To avoid this, you can hang some wood picture frames on different ends of the room or pair dining chairs in a different wood tone than the dining table.

Contrast Flooring and Furniture

If you have wood flooring and wood furniture, consider selecting different colour woods with the same undertones. Selecting different tones will create visual interest and break up the monotony of having the same wood tone layered on top of each other. To make it easy, select three wood tones in a space: light, medium and dark.

Soften With Space with A Rug

Adding a rug to the space will help soften the various wood tones and be the unifying element. If there is a lot of wood in the room, an area rug can offer a visual break. In addition, the softness of a rug can help tie the furniture to the wood floor. When selecting a rug, be sure that it’s large enough to anchor the furniture pieces. You can accomplish this by making sure the legs of the furniture can fit on the rug surface.

Incorporate An Accent Colour

As the finishing touch, bring in one or two accent colours to tie the space together. You can use this colour throughout the room, selecting throw pillows, lampshades, upholstery, cushions and more. Also, if you feel like you have too many wood furniture pieces in a room, you can incorporate painted wood pieces or metallic pieces to accent the rest of the space.

If you’re ready to start layering in different wood tones to your space, identifying the dominant tone and undertones are the keys to ensuring you’re on the right path to creating a layered and collected space. By following our helpful tips and tricks, you can create a professionally designed space – without hiring a designer.

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.