February 8, 2014

Edmonton Decorator | Blue Nile Painting | Hello, Spring

Transitioning Into Spring

Recently, I had the honour to be interviewed by the lovely Pamella at Blue Nile Painting Ltd. on how to "de-winterize" your home decor. Here's our Q and A!

Blue Nile Painting Edmonton

"Yet again, we at Blue Nile got to meet another extraordinary Edmonton designer. Rachel Schofield is known as the Queen of the 90 minute home makeover and (unofficial) Patron Saint of incredible style. She is an Edmonton interior decorator and home stager. We had Rachel over to our place to help with our bathroom renos and overall design tips. It was worth every minute!

 A few weeks ago when warm weather graced us in Edmonton, we began to feel a bit of Spring Fever. Our space felt heavy and dark and we were craving some sunshine and lightness. Was it too soon to begin to de-winterize our place? When is it the right time to transition into the next season and what are the easiest and most effective ways to make an impact in your space?

 We picked up the phone and called Rachel. After a very fun and informative chat, we HAD to share what we learned. So here it is, ways to make the leap into the new season.



 BNP: Now that the holiday season is over and we are eagerly awaiting Spring, what are some ways we can we begin to prepare our interior space for the changing seasons?

 RS: Removing old layers (blankets and pillows) and introducing a new colour is a great way to ease into Spring. You can work with what you already have in your space. Lighten up! Choose lighter colours and lighter fabrics. Change your bedding to white or a floral print. Opt for less bulk as well and change out your pillows.

 BNP: Are you still seeing “Winter” trends in January and February? Should we wait before we transition into more of a Spring decor?

 RS: We are full on into Spring trends. Although we may still be experiencing sub-zero weather, the key is to follow fashion trends, so Spring is on it’s way.

 BNP: What are the Spring trends you are seeing?

 RS: The colour we are seeing is Radiant Orchid. It goes well with greens, yellows, and greys. (Visit Rachel’s post about this vibrant colour). I recommend using this colour as an accent colour like a wallpaper, pillow, fabric, maybe a feature wall. With textures and patterns we have made a shift from stripes into more floral, lace, fringe, and macrame. Wallpaper is also very popular, just do one wall. When thinking furniture think lightness, airiness, glass furniture, mirrored, reflective, and glass doors.

 BNP: What are your favourite places to shop and online spaces to visit for inspiration?

 RS: I love Jonathan Adler. It’s a great site to gather inspiration and ideas. A place I enjoy to browse and shop is Z Gallerie. I also adore the Celebrity designer collections at Target online.

 BNP: What are your design/decor inspirations for 2014?

 RS: Do-it -yourself projects! I am committed to trying out some projects this year. I have started a Pinterest Board.

 BNP: And finally, we like to share goals. Our goal for this year is expansion. Expansion in our dreams, service, and how we do business. Hopefully a new company van and maybe an office later in the year. What is your goal for 2014?

 RS: To introduce decluttering and organzation services. I think it’s a stumbling block to many people creating their perfect home. Once they reduce the clutter it’s a lot easier to see what can and needs to be done. It’s a necessary pre-cursor to a successful design project.

 Ready for Spring? We are! Give Rachel a shout and put a spring into your step and your home decor!"

http://bluenilepainting.ca/
Meet Sam, Pamella and Paul of Blue Nile Painting.

Please be sure to give Blue Nile Painting a call! Together, their team will ensure your home, business, or large project gets the time and quality that it deserves so you can feel proud and confident of your beautiful painted space.
Posted by on
Labels: , , , , , ,

February 4, 2014

Edmonton Decorator | 2014 | Year of the Horse

Happy (belated) Chinese New Year!

Is it a coincidence, that it's the year of the Horse and I'm spotting more and more equine themed decor popping up? From over the top statement lamps, to classic bookends, here are a few ideas for the horse enthusiasts out there. So what say you, yay or neigh? ;)

Black Horse Head Statue



Oversized Statement Horse Lamp

White Horse Sculpture

Horse Bookends

Framed Horse Print



Brass Horse Shoe Door Knocker

Horse Collection

Framed White Horse Print

Equestrian Table Top Decor

Year of the Horse 2014



Posted by on
Labels: , , , , ,

January 13, 2014

Edmonton Decorator | Professional Organizing and Decluttering

Just call me the Disaster Master

How has 2014 been treating you so far? Who has made a resolution to get their life or home organized and decluttered?

On January 1st, I went through my house like a clutter-seeking missile to eradicate my space of any superfluous items. After my 30 minute mission, I was done with my clutter busting. But, I was HUNGRY for more.

That's why, I have decided to offer a new service to my clients: Professional Organization and Decluttering.

Below are a few pictures from a recent project to help a client declutter and organize their home. (I apologize in advance for the pics. I got so caught up, I forgot to take photos of some rooms. And the other photos were taken in extreme haste. But, you get the idea...)

LEFT - Bedroom "Before" (Sorry, it was REALLY scary)   RIGHT - Bedroom After

LEFT - Linen Closet Before    RIGHT - Linen Closet After

BEFORE - Laundry room

AFTER - Laundry room

AFTER - Laundry room
(For anyone who's curious, the bedroom and closet took about 6 hours, and the laundry room took about 3.)


Do you need help getting organized? Drop me a line or give me a call!

Posted by on
Labels: , , , , , ,

December 31, 2013

Edmonton Decorator | Happy New Year 2014 | Blog Roundup



Top 10 Most Popular Blog Posts from 2013

The hours are ticking away until the time we must bid 2013 adieu, and usher in the new year. Now is a perfect time to reflect upon the many blessings and lessons this past year has brought us. I am grateful for all of you whom read and follow my blog. I wish you all the best in 2014. Here are the top 10 most popular blog posts according to your visits!










Have a great night tonight -- make it memorable and enjoyable!


Posted by on
Labels: , , , , , , ,

December 29, 2013

Edmonton Interior Decorator | Colour Trends | Radiant Orchid



How to Decorate with Pantone's Colour of the Year: Radiant Orchid

If you're an interior decorating fanatic, by now you've heard about the new "it" colour for 2014. I describe this shade as the crossroads where pink and purple meet. But, how do you decorate with it?

First off, I have a design secret to share with you. If you're ever wondering how to pick colours that 'go together', look to nature.

See this first example: this beautiful flower with shades of white/cream, pink/purple and greens and the virtual room I created on the right. You could mimic this look as seen in the picture, or switch it by putting a light grey on the walls and have the radiant orchid as the bed spread/pillows. I think this is a dream palette for the bedroom, don't you?


If you're looking for something a little more vibrant, look to this second example. This beautiful geode has a stunning array of colours, including: radiant orchid, amethyst, white, light pink and even turquoise. Imagine the colour scheme you could build using this slice of nature as your inspiration!

I suggest the best use of this colour, is as an accent. Whether it be pillows, curtains or flowers in a vase. The picture below is an excellent example how to use Radiant Orchid both sparingly and effectively.



And lastly, if you're anxious to add some Radiant Orchid to your home now, here's something that can easily be found in your home town. IKEA has a wonderful duvet cover (LYCKOAX) that beautifully balances shades of purples and pinks.
To see more posts like this, visit:
Pantone Colour of the Year 2013: Emerald   
Pantone Colour of the Year 2012: Tangerine Tango
Pantone Colour of the Year 2011: Honeysuckle

I hope you've enjoyed this post. Please join me on Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter!

Posted by on
Labels: , , , , , , , , ,

December 19, 2013

Edmonton Interior Decorator | 10 Elegant Gift Wrapping Ideas for Christmas



Christmas is almost here! Santa and the Elves have a lot of wrapping to do before next Wednesday.  And, if you're like me, you like to see all of the presents coordinated, under the tree.

To create these looks, all you'll need are some plain wrapping papers in a single colour and a selection of ribbons and embellishments. Here are my favourite, simple yet elegant gift wrapping ideas to get you started!

Craft paper with gold and black tape

Craft paper with yarn and pom poms

Craft paper with black yarn and green sprig

Red paper with white yarn and greenery

Purple paper with simple ribbon and greenery

White paper with ribbon and candy canes

Craft paper with pine cones and berries

Craft paper with black ribbon and greenery

White paper with multi colour ribbon and wax seal

Craft paper with glittery silver ribbons

Oh! And I found the mother load of decorative tapes and ribbons. You've got to check them out here!
Posted by on
Labels: , , ,

December 13, 2013

Edmonton Decorator | Top 5 Holiday Entertaining Ideas



How to be the Hostess with the Mostess

Ding dong, the guests are here! Don't freak out. You don't need to be Martha Stewart to turn out some great holiday appetizers and drinks. Here, I round up my top 5 picks for you. Enjoy.

Click the pictures for recipe


Home Made Apple Cider

Champagne with Cranberry Skewers

http://mycustardpie.com/2011/12/28/christmas-wreath-bread-recipe/
Edible Parmesan Bread Wreath


Martha Stewart  Holiday Fruit Tart

Cranberry White Chocolate Popcorn

BONUS: 15 Easy to Make Appetizers
So, what do you want to try first?
Posted by on
Labels: , , ,

December 7, 2013

Edmonton Decorator | Edmonton REALTOR | Happy Holidays


Season's Greetings, Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!

It's that time of the year. I just popped my cards in the mail today, and here's one especially for you! Wishing all the best to you and yours.


Posted by on
Labels: , , ,
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)