70's Bedroom at Edmonton Design Week 2017

Edmonton Design Week: Design Through Time
1970s Bedroom Design Influence
 

Edmonton Design Week is almost here! Our upcoming installation, Design Through Time by Jostar Interiors, will debut at Enterprise Square on September 21. This is the last stop on our journey to the design world of today, and we’ve saved some of the best for last.

Groovy, baby. Welcome to the 1970s.

About the Era

It’s time to think back to funky music, giant bell-bottom jeans, and middle-part hairstyles. This is a time where, if you walk into an office, you won’t see any laptops, and disco music isn’t accompanied by #ThrowbackThursday.

Here are some major events to set the stage for the era we’re travelling to today:

• Floppy discs hit the market in 1971
• The first cell phone is invented in 1973
• People fall in love for the first time with Post-Its and the Rubik’s cube in 1974
• “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor comes out in 1978

Style and Trends

As you can see, we’ve come a long way since our journey through time started in the 1860s, but we’re still a ways away from the interior design trends of 2017. Some of the biggest styles from today originated in the 70s, and we want to take a moment to pay our respects to shag carpet, among other design influences. We’re taking a look into bedroom design specifically, exploring the colours, prints, and textures that brought this decade to life.

These were some of the biggest trends of the 70s:

1. Walls become canvas

Have you ever seen a painted stripe run all the way across a room? How about a kaleidoscope statement wall? Bedrooms of the 70s were defined by the psychedelic playfulness of wall décor. Geometric and colourful shapes popped up in large proportions and were often matched to textiles and linens, creating a funky design experience that was anything but boring.

2. Say yes to texture

On the walls, on the carpet, on the furniture! The 1970s are defined by texture experimentation, so adding shag carpet, wallpaper, and fabric to as many surfaces as possible was a must. Stripes, polka dots, and colourful patterns were everywhere and colour clashing was often employed for dramatic effect.

3. Bedroom sets, oh yes

The 70s were also a time in which a bedroom set made entirely of teak or pine was all the rage. There was so much going on all over the walls and floors that bedroom furniture often matched perfectly and looked like an identifiable set. Wicker furniture was a definable characteristic of the time, which added another layer of texture to an already textured space. Furniture layout also categorized the era, with bedroom furniture often placed along the same wall, in one big line up.

Design Week Inspiration

As the reveal of Design Through Time approaches, we’ve been inspired by the hippie movement that defined the decade of the 70s, and the groovy-flower-power-peace signs that we still channel whenever we consider using a funky print or a faux-fur accent.

Whether you’ve been following our journey through time over the past several weeks, or you’re just tuning in now, we hope you’ll join us for Edmonton Design Week on September 21! If you want some interior design inspiration right this minute, check out our Bathroom Renovation Quiz to start gathering a few ideas and channel your inspiration in the meantime.

Cover Image: Bloglovin'

Contemporary Bathroom at Edmonton Design Week 2017

Edmonton Design Week: Design Through Time
2017s Contemporary Bathroom Influence

We’ve been counting down the days, and Edmonton Design Week has finally arrived! The big reveal of our installation, Design Through Time by Jostar Interiors, is tonight, and we’re so thrilled to have you join us. We’ve made it through the 1860s, the 1920s, the 1950s, and the 1970s, and have now landed at our final destination decade: the one we’re in right now.

Let’s dive deeper into 2017.

About the Era

Today, we have access to a wealth of knowledge that influences how we share and understand interior design ideas and innovation. In the 1860s, we saw the materials used were readily available, but in 2017, it’s more about function than ease of access. We’ve taken elements of the past and trends from around the world, allowing us to develop personal taste, style, and home décor.

Here are some standout tidbits from the landscape today:

• Flying cars actually exist
• We can travel around the world just for a vacation
• It’s commonplace for bathroom faucets to turn on automatically when we need them to
• We have access to all the world’s knowledge on a tiny device in our pockets

Style and Trends

Style in our decade is defined by elegant pieces made from refined materials, and adding personality and individual taste along the way.

These are some of today’s biggest trends:

Wood elements

Natural wood is timeless and soothing. We bring it into bathroom spaces to add a natural vibe and offset shiny tile finishes and metallic fixtures. Wood can be used as an accent, but don’t be afraid to go for a full vanity or cabinet in natural wood grain to bring more earthy vibes into your home.

White space

The minimalist trend of our decade has taken the interior design world by storm, and has us all falling in love with simplicity. Introducing white walls, tile, and counters into your bathroom renovation will contribute to a spa-like feeling in your home. White looks great with any type of wood or accent colour, and is an easy way to make your bathroom feel crisp and clean.

Open and airy

Finally, let’s talk about modern layouts. Bathrooms of today are all about making spaces that are functional and beautiful for the people who use them. One of the biggest trends we’re seeing is a move to more open spaces that let in lots of light and provide ample room to move around and relax.

To start catching your bathroom up to the times, head over to Bathroom Renovation Quiz to get going on planning and getting excited about your next renovation project.

take our bathroom quiz!

* Cover Image Credit: Pinterest

50's Living Room Design at Edmonton Design Week 2017

Edmonton Design Week: Design Through Time
1950s Living Room Design Influence

In just a few weeks, during Edmonton Design Week, we will debut the Design Through Time by Jostar Interiors installation at the Enterprise Square Gallery. On September 21, join us on a trip to the past and discover the eras that shaped the interior design styles of today.

In our last post, we explored kitchens of the 1920s, which leads us into the third week of our journey through time. Now, turn your attention to the 1950s! This was a time of soda pop, the rise of the suburbs, and some stellar interior design trends.

About the Era

Let’s think back to a time before the internet, microwaves, and cell phones. This is what was going on at the time:

• Credit Cards are invented in 1950
• The first Teflon pan is produced in 1954
• Planet earth meets hula hoops (1958) and Barbie (1959)
• Televisions become commonplace in living rooms across the country

Style and Trends

We’ve settled that life was very different in the 1950s, so let’s take a look at some of the biggest living room design trends that may not make this era feel so far away after all.

The entire decade is defined by something we now refer to as Mid-Century Modern design. This movement is influenced by a Scandinavian aesthetic, but also infused with a culture of embracing the new, the modern and the advanced. Even if a tulip chair doesn’t raise too many eyebrows these days, the 1950s marked a time in Canada in which homes became canvases. These were some of the biggest trends of the 50s:

1. Colour everywhere

Ever seen a robin egg blue sink? How about pink flooring? This all-over colour trend was huge in the 50s – from bold couches to intense patterns on textiles, bright and beautiful colours were all over the living room. Pastel colours were also building popularity, way before millennial pink was in centre stage.

2. More than a place to sit

One of the key areas in which 1950s living room design came to life is furniture. Categorized by experimentation with new shapes, clean lines, and potentially questionable fabric choices, no one can deny that furniture in the 50s had style. Vinyl covered chairs were all the rage, and living rooms began to see home bars change house parties forever.

3. Décor galore

This was also a time when televisions and record players became standard in most living rooms, but beyond that, we started to see the rise of decorating as we know it today. It was no longer enough for a lamp to just light the room; the shades and shapes of the bases became stylized and eye catching. Formica tables were a must-have, and even clocks took on a quirky, playful motif.

Cover Photo Credit: Bygone Theatre

1920s Kitchen Design at Edmonton Design Week

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the 1920s.

About the Era

Let’s think back almost 100 years. The hairstyles are short, and the gloves are long. Here’s some trivia of important events in the 1920s to help set the stage and let you visualize the period we’re talking about:

• The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is published in 1925
• Amelia Earhart becomes the first woman to cross the Atlantic
• A refrigerator in the kitchen is a luxury item
• Kool-Aid is invented in 1927 under the name Fruit Smack
   

Style and Trends

Once you’re done imagining what daily life must have looked like back then, turn your attention to the beautiful kitchen developments of the 1920s. Here are a few stand outs:
 

Hexagon/Geometric Tile

Geometric tile is making a huge statement. From kitchen floors and backsplashes, to countertops, people are embracing easy to clean surfaces that infuse both practicality and style in the home.

Under the influence of Art Deco architecture, chevrons, sunbursts, and symmetrical designs were popular in the 1920s, and they’re back in a big way today.
 

Streamlined layouts

Kitchens of the 1920s were also categorized by a streamlined aesthetic, not too different from the minimalist trends of today. Clean white lines and layouts focused on functionality defined the spaces then, and paved the way for the crisp porcelain sinks you might spot in your neighbour’s kitchen now.
 

Hoosier Cabinets

This is one of the first iterations of a modern storage unit. Kitchens in the 1920s were the hub of the home, and innovations of the time (such as an early waffle iron) meant that families needed more storage and organization options. The resulting Hoosier cabinets had slide out shelves, many drawers, and multi sized compartments with doors, paving the way for the cabinets and islands of present day kitchens.

5 Tricks To Keep Your Newly Renovated Bathroom Fresh And Clean

Photo Credit: Marvel Building

Bathroom renovation complete? Time to show it off!

Once you’re done all the hard work and execution of a bathroom renovation, it feels so good to settle in and start sharing your refreshed space. Although your new bathroom will surely keep looking great, you’re going to want to keep it smelling great too.

You chose to change your space to appeal to your preferred function and sense of style, so we’ve put together 5 helpful tips to help your bathroom appeal to your sense of smell as well:

Don’t Cover It – Clean It

Simply covering up odours doesn’t work. It creates a confusing mix of smells that settle in and eventually turn stale. You wouldn’t put a band-aid on serious injury, so if you notice something funky in your space locate the source of the problem and clean it thoroughly instead of covering the odour up.

Go With The Flow

Keeping the air circulating in your bathroom is critical to maintaining a pleasant odour. Crack a window, use your bathroom fan (and talk to one of our Edmonton interior designers before you start your project) to make sure you keep up adequate airflow in your new bathroom.

Obliterate The Odour

Tackling bathroom odours is a big job. We recommend using two strategies to conquer bathroom smell. First, use something to neutralize and absorb smells such as baking soda, white vinegar, or activated carbon (which you can often buy in the aquarium section of pet stores). Put your chosen neutralizer in a vase or decorative vessel that works with your home décor, and ta da - odours absorbed! Next, introduce a “happy” smell, such as a flowering plant or a candle, to create (not cover) a positive scent in your new bathroom.

Pump Up The Freshness

It seems obvious, but when was the last time you washed your bath mat? How about your shower curtain? These appear to be little things but there are multiple sources for odours in your bathroom, and keeping every one of them on your laundry and cleaning rotation will go a long way. Mop the floors, avoid still water, and keep your bathroom surfaces clear to help prevent the little things from piling up and turning into a big scent problem.

Be Mindful

Lastly, try to be conscious and pay attention to the smells in your bathroom. In Edmonton interior design, every space is unique, so be aware and identify the particular scent issues that could arise in your personal space. Try to look at (and smell) your space as a guest would. It’s much easier to prevent an odour problem than it is to correct one.

Whether you’re just finishing up your renovation, or just about to begin, you’re all set to keep your space fresh and clean. If you’re at the beginning of your journey, take our quiz to see where your taste falls against your renovation budget.

An Interview With Interior Design Consultant Laura Of Jostar

When it comes to renovations, it’s best to talk to a pro. Even if you don’t have your own interior designer on speed dial (yet), once you start planning a renovation, it’s easy to see how a little professional advice can go a long way.  Luckily, Jostar has you covered with sound advice as you plan your next Edmonton renovation project. Read on for an in-depth interview with Laura, one of our design experts.

What’s the first thing you plan when you start a new renovation project?

We put together an ideal schedule and establish deadlines that will help us get the project completed on time. We also have to plan appointments with the clients where we finalize the materials, selections, and fixtures. Sometimes certain items take longer to come in than others, so we need to ensure we select and order everything in time to keep things moving. There are often unforeseen circumstances that delay the project, but having a schedule from the very beginning helps us, as well as the trades and the clients, know how to plan and what to expect.

What are some of your sources of inspiration?

A big source of inspiration for me is seeing what other designers in different countries or cities are doing. Designs and ideas are often so diverse, and it is fun to see what others around the world are up to. Certain places are more “advanced” in design than others, in that they start the trends as opposed to following them, so it is always interesting to see how other designers think outside the box. As cliché as it sounds, Pinterest and Houzz are also great sources of inspiration! I’ve been known to call Pinterest my design bible - it really helps to get out of any sort of “design rut.”

How do you balance client ideas with your professional expertise?

One of the biggest challenges can be giving the client exactly what they’re looking for, but also providing them with the most functional and beautiful design for their space. I try to give them ideas they may not have thought about before, while always keeping in mind their style and what they need from the space. If they have an idea I know just will not work at all, I try to explain why. Usually they are very understanding and open to other options. One of my favourite parts of the renovation process is collaborating with clients and seeing their excitement begin as all of the details begin to take shape, and the vision becomes more and more of a reality.

What’s the hardest part of designing a kitchen renovation?

The great thing about a renovation is that you can work within an existing space to create a totally new environment that is sometimes unrecognizable. Ironically, this is also the hardest part! Working with the existing walls, plumbing, windows, electrical, etc. is typically the biggest challenge when tackling a new project. Us designers like to dream up these great kitchens, and I can tell you that not once will the trades look at the plan and say, “sure- no problem!”. There is always something that needs to be reworked, whether it is simply redirecting a cold air return into a toe kick, or the bigger jobs like replacing supporting walls with beams or moving plumbing to accommodate for a new dishwasher location. We try to make note of these things while designing the kitchen of course, but it is usually not until the demo is completed that we find out the full story of what it is we have to work with, and work around.

Describe the biggest transformation you’ve ever been a part of completing.

Without a doubt the largest transformation was a house located on an acreage just east of the city. It had an attached double garage, two bedrooms, one small bathroom, and a really unique addition space with large windows and a vaulted ceiling that was being used as a second living room. The space had a ton of potential to become what the owners wanted, which was a three bedroom, two bathroom home with an open space main living area featuring a large kitchen, dining area, and living room. By converting the garage into a part of the living space, we were able to add in two bedrooms, a three-piece bathroom, and a laundry/mudroom to the old garage alone. The homeowners had the wonderful idea to move their master bedroom to the room with the vaulted ceiling, and we were able to find space for a spacious ensuite, walk in closet, and even a walk-in pantry with easy access to their new kitchen. As you can imagine, this was a massive undertaking. New plumbing had to be run, all new electrical installed, almost all new drywall with updated insulation, new ceiling - it really was almost an entirely new house! And that was just the interior. The exterior received a new roof, siding with cultured stone detail, concrete patio, and a new fence. From the planning stages to completion, this project took just about a year. Stay tuned to our social media to see the unbelievable before and afters of this massive transformation!

What are the 3 most common wish list items your clients have for kitchen design?

Clients are always hoping for more countertop space, more storage, and large island for workspace. Sometimes accommodating all of these can be tricky if it is a small space, and an island is not always workable. But no matter the area we have to work with, we always work hard to come up with creative ideas so the clients space gets as close to their dream kitchen as possible.

What are some of the worst designs (bathroom or kitchen) you’ve ever encountered? How did you fix them?

It is not that is was a horrible design, but there is one en-suite we are currently working on that I feel had a lot of wasted space. It was actually a very large for a bathroom, but lacked any sort of functional storage, had a large corner tub that took up a lot of the space, and had a tiny shower. We have since redesigned it to straighten out the awkward angled walls to accommodate for a more functional vanity and tall storage, a free-standing tub, and a larger shower. This also increased the size of the walk in closet, so it is a win-win! The “after” will actually be the same square footage as the original, which goes to show how the right layout can make a world of difference.

Before: 

After: 

Tell us about your favourite bathroom design project.

Going off of the last question, this same bathroom happens to be one of my favourites as well. The client has picked a gorgeous free-standing tub and very sleek plumbing and lighting fixtures. A lovely almost-black tile will be laid out in a herringbone pattern, which will be a beautiful contrast against the high gloss vanity and white quartz countertops. Stay tuned for the after photos!

What are some of the execution challenges of designing a new bathroom?

As fun as it is designing a new bathroom, they certainly come with their own challenges. Much like the kitchen, you have to consider the existing plumbing and walls. You don’t want to break the client’s entire budget just by moving the toilet from one end of the room to the other. You also have to get fairly creative with bathroom storage, but incorporating a built in shower niche, and tall vanities with adjustable shelving can make a huge difference. Execution wise, don’t forget that someone will actually have to get these products into the bathroom itself. Unlike with new construction, in renovations we typically do not have the luxury of being able to bring up the tub in a crane while things are still being framed. We often have to go with a three or four piece tub/shower combination as opposed to a one piece, as those can sometimes be impossible to get upstairs or through doorways.

How to you make designs feel personal?

Every client we work with is different, so accordingly every design we create is custom made for that person. We always discuss how they intend to use the space, as well as how they want to the space to make them feel, and use that as direction for the duration of the design process. I always keep in mind that this is where the client will be spending large amounts of time, whether they will be hosting special celebrations, or simply making their daily morning coffee. Whether it is an extra pull out pantry for the avid cook, or the refinished kitchen stools that used to belong to somebody’s grandmother, we try to incorporate special details so the space is unique to them, and really feels like home.

The right designer is the difference between a renovation you’re happy with and a renovation you love. From home décor to interior design ideas, designers help make your renovation the best it can be, and even a seemingly simple project can take a lot of effort, money, and time without the right advice. For more planning resources or start your renovation, reach out to an expert like Laura at Jostar today.

5 Simple DIY Bathroom Renovations That Instantly Increase the Value of Your Home

Increasing the value of your home is always a good idea, especially if you’re planning to put it up for sale sometime soon. One area of the home that particularly benefits from a little extra TLC is your bathroom.

We put together a list of five simple DIY renovations that can get your bathroom looking great without spending a fortune. Take a look at our list below, then roll up your sleeves and get ready to increase that number on your home’s price tag!
 

Give those walls some attention

One of the simplest renovations that can be done in any home is giving the walls a fresh coat of paint. Painted bathroom walls are often affected by steam and water within the space. Giving your walls some new paint will immediately erase any marks of wear-and-tear.

Feeling adventurous? Try using wallpaper as a feature on one of the walls. Floral prints are having a major moment right now and would add exceptional style to your home’s bathroom.
 

Hardware upgrade

Changing an entire vanity in a bathroom is a major home renovation that many of us often can’t afford to make. An easy (and much more affordable) option is to switch your old faucets and cupboard handles with something new. Try to choose coordinating hardware throughout the space so that you create a seamless look.

Modern lighting

Bathrooms typically get overlooked when it comes to lighting, so this is your chance to make your bathroom light fixtures stand out from the rest! If you’re lucky to have high ceilings in your bathroom, consider adding a small chandelier to the space for an unexpected and eye-catching effect. There are so many options on the market right now for wall-mounted lighting – everything from traditional, to urban, to rustic, so take some time to look around for inspiration.
 

Mirror, mirror…

Everyone looks in the mirror in a bathroom. This fact alone should make it an area to focus on. Add some interest to your vanity space by replacing that plain, rectangular mirror with one that has more character. Think: framed mirrors, mirrors with an unexpected shape, or even a mirror framed with lights for a glamour approach.
 

Small details – big changes

Don’t underestimate how big of a difference something like swapping out your old shower curtain can make. A shower curtain is such a big piece of material in a relatively small space, so a chic, new curtain with decorative hooks can instantly update the room. Replacing your bath mat, adding new hand towels, and inserting a few coordinating accessories into the space can all make your bathroom look a little more attractive.
 

If you’re ready for your own bathroom renovation, don’t hesitate to call us and book your consultation with one of our designers, today:

BOOK A CONSULTATION

Dining Areas: What Seating Arrangement Is Right For You?

If you’re planning to start your Edmonton kitchen renovations this spring, it will be crucial for you to decide on a dining area seating arrangement that is right for your lifestyle. There are many styles and options available, each corresponding to a particular set of dining needs based on the daily activities that occur both inside and outside of your home.

The best kitchens balance great design with functional form, so you can use the following guide for kitchen inspiration to help you select a seating arrangement that is the right fit for your lifestyle.
 

Counter Height Table

The Lifestyle: Compact homes that don’t require lots of seating.

High tables tend to be elegant and sophisticated. They are great for small homes and condos with more compact layouts because they take advantage of vertical space rather than horizontal space. A high-top table arrangement is best for young professionals and couples who don’t require lots of seating and want to create an upscale feel without adding large, cumbersome furniture to their design.
 

Bonus Booth

The Lifestyle: Busy homes that contain multiple seating areas.

A bonus booth is a great addition to kitchens and homes with multiple eating areas. Adding a booth to your kitchen design is also a great way to take advantage of an unused nook or alcove. Booths are an ideal fit for large families, and they can allow for two separate dining areas, so there can be a pizza study session at the bonus booth, and a cozy dinner party at the primary dining area.
 

Classic Table

The Lifestyle: Traditional family dining.

Sometimes you just can’t beat the classics. A classic height kitchen table with traditional dining chairs is well suited for small families, or young couples creating a kitchen to grow into. Edmonton interior design is all about infusing personality and personalized needs, so classic doesn’t have to mean boring when it comes to your dining seating. Jazz up your home decor with unique centerpieces, or even consider trying out mismatched dining chairs for a completely unique look.
 

Bar or Island

The Lifestyle: On-the-go diners who only need smaller in-home seating options.

You may not need a typical kitchen table at all to create the perfect dining area for your lifestyle. Singles or busy young professionals that don’t often host or eat at home may benefit from simpler interior design ideas for dining such as a cozy bar or dining area, which can then free up extra living space.
 

Large Dining Benches

The Lifestyle: Social homes that often host large crowds requiring group seating options.

Do you often have large crowds at your dining table? Have you ever hosted an entire little league team? If so, you may way to consider a kitchen table with bench seating. Benches are ideal for busy families that are growing or households that do a lot of hosting because it’s easy to cozy up or spread out without having to count chairs. Benches can seat a lot of kids comfortably, and a natural wood or statement colour bench seating solution can liven up your kitchen renovation too!

The right seating arrangement depends entirely on you and your unique dining needs. When you need help choosing an arrangement, Jostar is always just a phone call away.
 

Check out our full kitchen renovations workbook for a complete guide on how to start your next Edmonton interior design project.

WOW Moment: 10 Bathroom Wallpapers That Did NOT Disappoint

If you’re taking on Edmonton interior design or bathroom renovations, you may be wondering how to infuse your personality into your home decor without cluttering your space. Wallpaper is a great way to add texture, pattern, and make a statement. The right choice of wallpaper in your bathroom can be an alternative to humidity-sensitive art, and because bathrooms are one of the smaller rooms in your home, you can do something bold without overwhelming your space.

This isn’t your grandmother’s wallpaper – check out ten of our favourite designs.

We love the elegant simplicity of this space and the juxtaposition of the sharp brick shape with the sweeping lines of the floral pattern.

Here, we love both the pattern and the placement. Wallpaper like this is great for any home because it takes advantage of small, unused walls, and adds a pop of interest that makes the bathroom truly unique.

In this space, we love that the homeowners used a pattern that is a little bit wild. With your own space, it’s important to infuse your own personal style. Bicycles, cats, outer space – the wallpaper possibilities are endless!

These walls are all about visual interest. The all-over print works because it isn’t too busy, and the all white scheme keeps the space feeling bright and clean.

Who says wallpaper has to be whimsical? Wallpaper like this is a great way to add texture to your space and balance smooth surfaces.

The wallpaper climbing around the curve of the wall looks amazing and makes the pattern really pop. This is a great way to add depth and boost character.

In this bright, quirky bathroom it’s all about that all-over print. You bathroom should flow with the rest of your home, but because the space is so much smaller, sometimes you can get away with making a big splash with some adventurous wallpaper like the one pictured here.

Look no further for dressy, glamorous interior design ideas. We love that this bathroom design shows the luxurious side of wallpaper, and demonstrates how easy it is to use wallpaper to set the tone for your space.

In this large bathroom, we love the use of pattern to interrupt an otherwise ordinary room.

Finally, wallpaper is a great way to continue a monochrome colour scheme, but keep your space interesting. Metallic effects are soft and subtle, but create just the right amount of intrigue in the bathroom.

When you need to find the perfect wallpaper, Jostar has products and advice for any bathroom renovation project.

Reach out to one of our experts to get your bathroom renovation started!

Five Simple Tricks To Add More Storage To Your Bathroom

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: storage is one of the most important parts of your bathroom design. Clutter can disrupt even the most elegant room, so be sure to think about your storage needs before starting your bathroom renovation or home decor change.

Read on to learn our five favourite tips to easily increase your bathroom storage, and optimize what your space can do for you.
 

Use walls for more

Storage doesn’t have to be complicated. A floating shelf beside your mirror, a wall cabinet in an unused area, or even a magnet board can be great options to turn your empty walls into storage solutions.
 

Slide your stuff into place

Adding sliding drawers in cabinets is a great way to create smarter storage for your bathroom items. Sliding drawers help make the most of deep cabinets, and because bathroom items are usually small, sliding storage helps ensure nothing gets lost in the depths.
 

Waste no space

From an unused alcove to an awkward corner, another great way to add storage in your bathroom is to create a customized unit. Even adding a small ledge above a mirror or an extra shelf inside a tall cabinet can be effective in creating more storage areas.
 

Be different

In Edmonton interior design, not all storage solutions have to be conventional. There are endless interior design ideas, so get creative! Maybe it’s a step ladder that you’ll paint and convert into a free-standing shelf, or maybe you’ll create your own storage unit out of some old wooden crates – don’t be afraid to think outside the box and make your space unique.
 

Hang it up

Finally, adding pegs or hooks is a simple and efficient way to boost your bathroom’s storage capabilities. Hanging your styling tools, your towels, and your toiletry bags keeps them neat, accessible, and helps keep your surfaces clear.

No matter what bathroom style you have (or want to create), Jostar has ideas and solutions to make even the most cluttered space functional and smart.

For more help, get in touch with one of our experts today!

Bathroom Planning: Which Sink Will Work Best For You?

When you’re starting out on bathroom renovations, you’ll be faced with selecting a sink style. With so many designs available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with your choices. That’s why we created this little guide to help you navigate your options and identify what will and will not work for your lifestyle.
 

The Bare Necessities

As a natural minimalist, you have your options open when it comes to sink styles. If you don’t need a lot of products or items for your daily routine and you won’t need to share your sink area, consider doing something striking and unique like a vessel sink. Vessel sinks are bowls or basins that sit on the counter and give you a beautiful, modern bathroom design. They’re a great way to keep your bathroom aesthetic clean and minimal, but also add just the right amount of intrigue.
 

All Hands On Deck

With bathrooms for the whole family, storage is key. Stay away from pedestal sinks and console sinks that look sleek, but lack cabinets, drawers, and surface space. Instead, opt for a storage-oriented option above your base bathroom cabinets like a self-rimming sink that will sit right on the counter and make your home decor classic and easy to maintain.
 

Bathroom For Two

Couples need more storage options when they share a bathroom, so it’s best to opt for sink styles that are elegant and bold, but without compromising functionality. Vanities with storage cabinets below, or even double sinks (if you have space) are great interior design ideas for couples.
 

Beauty Queen

If you love makeup, skincare, and beauty products and you’re always eager to try the latest trends, you’re going to need a lot of surface space. Stay away from pedestals that don’t give you a lot of room to put down brushes and lipsticks as you go, and consider an undermount sink instead. Undermount sinks are completely seamless with counters, and are extremely easy to wipe down. They look great, give you full access to rest items on the side of your sink, and optimize all your surface area as well.
 

Kids Zone

Kids usually have a small amount of products to store, but they can make a big mess with the few products they do use. Wall-mounted sinks are a great option for children’s bathrooms because they are so easy to clean, and they keep floor space open for step stools, bath toys, and extra bottles of no-tears shampoo.

In Edmonton, interior design is about personalized function, and there’s a sink for every lifestyle. Now that you know what sink style suits you best, Jostar can help you begin your bathroom renovation and bring you closer to your best space.

10 Things I Learned Designing and Building a Kitchen

If you’re thinking about starting 2017 off with kitchen renovations, it helps to get advice from someone who has been there and done it all before. There are key steps you may not have considered, and little tips that could help save you time and money in the long run.

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These are 10 important lessons from building and designing a kitchen that will help you stay on track and achieve your dream design.
 

“Plan around your own specific wants and needs”

Once you’ve decided to move forward with kitchen renovations, it’s also crucial to delve into your personal requirements. Make a list of your points of pain, and brainstorm interior design ideas to alleviate them.
 

“Don’t lose the things you already love”

Conversely, it’s also important to preserve what does work for you in your space such as great natural light or original hardwood floors.
 

“It helps to consciously plan your style”

This seems obvious, but pick out some adjectives to describe your desired style and home decor. Then, eliminate ideas that don’t fit in. Having a defined style makes it easier to stay on track and not be overwhelmed with all the options available to you.
 

“Take the time to make a realistic budget before you start”

It’s absolutely possible to get great value with Edmonton interior design, but it’s also important to do your research and set a limit so there aren’t any surprises.
 

“Counter space can be more practical than open space”

Open kitchens are amazing, but if you have a big family it might not be realistic to sacrifice counter space for open space. If you want the best of both worlds, consider a compromise such as adding an island to your kitchen layout.
 

“You only need one focal point”

This can be much more challenging than it sounds. Keep your kitchen design in check, and don’t get carried away with too many bold elements and design trends, or you’ll end up with clutter instead of comfort.
 

“The more flexible you are, the less stressed you will be”

Somewhere along the way you may need to change some aspect of your original plan. Keeping an open mind and staying flexible makes these decisions much easier to take on.
 

“It’s hard to visualize textures”

Even if you’re a highly visual person, it can be extremely challenging to visualize every tone, finish, and texture. This is when you should consult a professional to help you achieve exactly the look you want and prevent having to do anything twice.
 

“Don’t rush anything. Take your time and sleep on it”

You’re the one that’s going to live in your space, so if you aren’t sure about something it’s okay to take a time out and make your decisions carefully.
 

“Designers help more than you may realize”

This is a big one. Hiring a professional to help can actually save you money and time. They can prevent mistakes, spot potential problems in your plans, and tell you with certainty what is going to work (and what isn’t).

When you’re ready to start your kitchen renovations, the experts at Jostar will be ready to help.

Dream Kitchens: Five Kitchens We All Wish We Could Cook In

There are some things kitchen renovations can change… and some things they can’t. In Edmonton interior design, it’s important to spot existing potential and look for permanent features to accentuate in order to make the most of your kitchen renovation or home decor change.

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Here are our five top drool-worthy kitchen design ideas and why we love them.

Windows as a backsplash

We adore these large bright windows that let in tons of natural light, making the space airy and open. Windows like these aren’t easy to create from scratch, so be sure to be on the lookout for existing light when you’re looking at new kitchens or considering an update.
 

The ultimate pantry

Not all homes have the square footage to allow for a pantry of this scale, but there’s nothing like an over-the-top feature to spark bold interior design ideas. The storage room pictured here is great because you can easily see all your ingredients, and the opportunities for recipe ideas and creative twists are endless.
 

Mile-high ceiling

We love home decor that maximizes the best parts of what a space has to offer. The kitchen design here accentuates the high ceilings and makes a stunning, glamorous statement. We’d love to prepare a Sunday brunch over those dreamy cabinets.  
 

Outdoor chef

Now we realize a kitchen like this isn’t feasible in Edmonton, but it doesn’t hurt to dream. The sleek lines, modern finishes, and muted colours in the kitchen pictured here create an elegant design and really make us wish we could grill a delicious meal in this outdoor space.  
 

Skylight heaven

The skylights here aren’t easy to add to your space, but they make an incredible focal point for the lucky owner of this home. The playful mix of copper and gold is intriguing, and the beautiful windows help create an area where we would look forward to preparing big family meals, or a late night snack under the stars.

At Jostar, we care about making the most of your particular space and creating a kitchen that is entirely your own.

Countertop and Backsplash: Create the Perfect Match

Your countertop and backsplash play a huge role in determining the feel of your kitchen. That’s why it’s important to put a lot of thought into the style you want to create and what materials and colours will help you get there.

Here are five interior design ideas that are trending right now, and some handy advice to translate each idea into your home!

Mix solid colours with contrasting tiles

In this kitchen, we see a bright white countertop paired with tiles with sharp lines that work together to create a sleek and elegant vibe. When you’re choosing tiles for your backsplash, be sure to think about how the lines will flow with the rest of your kitchen too. Here, we love the mix of the soft grainy lines on the floors and cabinets that help make the sharp edges in the backsplash really pop. 

Create depth and intrigue in a small space 

This kitchen is stunning, but the particular area that’s pictured actually isn’t that big. To achieve something similar with your home decor, consider creating a tile mosaic or a unique brick layout like the one pictured here. The unusual lines and mixing tones create visual intrigue and make a small space interesting and personalized.

Add a pop of colour 

The kitchen pictured here uses a dark teal for the countertop and the backsplash, but it completely works without being overpowering. We love the structure of the backsplash tile with the natural concrete elements in the countertop. If you want to bring something like this into your kitchen renovations, try mixing materials but using similar, bright colours in your backsplash and countertop.

Make a statement without colour 

Something that really stands out about this kitchen is the use of soft greys and whites to create a design that is anything but soft. The backsplash goes all the way up the wall, which adds to the bold vibe. To do something similar with your kitchen design, select an elegant countertop and complimenting tiles for your backsplash. In the backsplash, opt for a pattern with playful flair, like the chevron pictured here.

Play with texture in a unique way 

The contrast between the shiny countertop and the rustic brick here is really making us swoon, and experts at Jostar can help you bring inspiration from this kitchen to your own. Consider mixing the textures of your counters and backsplash, and using multiple layouts within the backsplash for even more of a statement.

In Edmonton interior design, it’s important to consider how every element of your kitchen will affect the overall design. When it comes to countertops and backsplashes, create combinations that work together, but also contrast each other slightly to create a truly one-of-a-kind space.  

Trending Now | Interior Style To Watch Out For In 2017

If you’re planning kitchen renovations or an interior design change in the new year, you’re going to want to know what the latest trends and styles will be. There’s nothing worse than seeing an incredible new look in Edmonton interior design and thinking to yourself “I should have done that”. So don’t worry – Jostar has you covered.

Here are our tips and predictions for the next big design trends to make a splash in 2017:

Colour and patterns

2016 was all about monochrome, so we think it’s about time for a change. We’re excited about patterned tiles for backsplashes, and even bright, bold accents for unique and beautiful home decor. If there’s a colour or pattern you love, we say go for it.

Two-tone cabinets and finishes

Who says you can only have one? More and more, we’re starting to see interior design ideas with upper and lower cabinets of different colours and even a mix of finishing options. Different metallic features can look amazing together, so we see no reason to force them apart.

Earthy elements

Again, we’ve seen a lot of wood and brick in previous years. While we love the open brick/barn door look, 2017 may be a time to welcome new textures and elements. Consider terracotta accents or hints of cork to give your space warmth and texture in a new and fun way.

Innovative technology features

As technology continues to advance at an incredible rate, our advice is to pay attention to the latest innovations and consider them in planning your kitchen. For example, sinks with touch sensors have really taken off, so make sure you allow room above your sink to accommodate a taller faucet. We don’t know what the next big breakthrough will be, but giving your appliances room is a great step to make sure you’re ready for innovation in years to come.

Customized options and creative layouts

There are no rules that say you must put your oven near your sink. In 2017, we expect to see more families pay attention to what they use their spaces for, and then design around their personal needs. Perhaps you want a customized storage island for your specialty baking supplies, or maybe you want to add a nook that will double as a homework area. Your kitchen should make your life easier, so we say anything goes.

Always remember, your kitchen design should be a reflection of you. We believe in personal style, and the best kitchens are those that suit the needs of those who will use it! When you’re ready to start your new kitchen, we’re here to help.