Use what you've got, baby!

 
 
 


Bare-boned, antiseptic spaces are quickly losing their “cool factor”, as homeowners embrace a warming trend in design. That means we’ll be treated to more rooms that are rich with colour and graphic elements, accented by collectibles and one-of-a-kind and hand-made accessories — places that reflect the owner’s unique design aesthetic. Sound expensive? It needn’t be ­ — not if you know to use what you’ve got, and to how to choose your new purchases wsiely!  That’s  the  mantra for my seminars at the International Home Show, which runs from March 31 to April 3 at the International Centre in Mississauga. Hot and sunny colours will play an important part in my presentation (see the pics from Pittsburgh  Paints above – they've been my inspiration)

I’ll be on the Main Stage at 6 p.m. on Thursday and 4 p.m. on Saturday (and yes, I may have a few giveaways!). Other Toronto Star columnists will be there too. Look for host of HGTV's DIY Disaster and now a New in Homes columnist, Bryan Baeumler, who will offer visitors a Reno Realty Check at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday.  A favourite read for many Saturday Star readers, Mark Cullen, will share tips and tricks for growing a greener, more sustainable garden at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday.