Colin and Justin: Small changes can lead to big results

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Provide an upscale vibe without breaking the bank

It’s staggering to observe just how differently the property market is performing, as compared to three or four years back when COVID-19 was at its most potent.

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Back then, many speculators reckoned the market would tank as the pandemic’s ugly grip tightened. But of course that wasn’t to be…

The leisure home sector surged first, with many cottagers seeing massive returns in a short space of time. Thereafter, the renovation sector boomed, and the principal home sector enjoyed significant gains as people invested in flashier real estate to enhance their enforced time at home.

However, as the calendar endured, the cost of living morphed to become the next ‘pandemic’: we shudder to observe how daily expenditure has rocketed.

As the wider economy attempts to stabilize, the Canadian property market remains substantially less buoyant than it was in such health compromised times.

This in mind, consumers are looking for economical ways to upgrade, say the experts at home improvement mecca Rona rather than sell up and move on. From kitchens and bathrooms to living areas and bedrooms, the trend, they opine, is for ‘nesting’ rather than ‘investing’.

“There are many ways to provide an upscale vibe without breaking the bank,” explains Lydia Thammavong, head of ‘Styles and Trends’ at the DIY outpost.

“Survey your home’s interior to identify areas that could use some extra love. Even small changes – such as decorative pillows and greenery – can make space more enjoyable. It just takes a little creativity.”

Here are Thammavong’s budget-friendly tips to revamp decor :

Alternative uses for peel-and-stick tile. While products such as these work well on walls, consider applying peel and stick tile to table surfaces, or transform a plain staircase by applying patterned or vibrant ‘tile’ to the risers. Currently popular are vintage motifs, marbled mosaic and copper hexagons.

Door handles. Often small, these can have huge impact, and are available in myriad shapes and materials. If you like ‘modern farmhouse’, black flat-round knobs would be a good starting point. For a modern minimalist aesthetic, opt for sleek square lever or cylindrical knobs in satin nickel or jet. Crystal pulls would infuse an element of luxe, and antique brass a charming vibe.

New ways with paint. SICO Paints, available at Rona, just launched an innovative spray product, called Perma-Flex, that helps DIYers bring new life to fabrics, accessories and outdoor furniture. Applied on surfaces such as wood, metal, plastic and glass, the paint dries in around five minutes without running or dripping.

Self adhesive wallpaper. Choose bold patterns or textured designs to create a focal point. Trending designs include grey and white brick, leafy greenery, Mediterranean motifs, Damask, geometrics shapes, and wainscoting. Visit www.aboutmurals.ca for further inspiration.

Banish clutter. Purging can help you feel happier and more relaxed. Post clean out, specify baskets or bins to store clothes, accessories and office supplies.  And try storage ottomans (with lift-up seats) to stash blankets, shoes, bags, hats and other items.

Pillows and textiles.  An affordable way to update, these infuse colour, pattern and texture. Combine different scales of pattern to add interest: large stripes work well with small florals, while geometrics pair nicely with organic motifs. If your room already has sufficient pattern, opt for neutral pillows in whites or creams to provide balance.

Transform with rugs. From plush wool and durable synthetics to geometric or floral motifs – rugs infuse character. Neutral tones like beige or whisper grey blend well in most applications, whilst bold patterns or colours will serve as statements in minimalist or monochromatic settings. Experiment by layering a smaller rug over a larger area carpet to add extra dimension. Try www.korhani.com for a roster of affordable choices.

Set mood with mirrors. Place mirrors opposite natural light sources to optimize illumination, or use to reflect brightness from lamps and fixtures to create a better lit environment. For added impact, select mirrors with decorative frames, or group smaller mirrors to create an accent zone. Homesense (www.homesense.ca) carry some of the market’s most affordable choices.

We hope the foregoing tips soften the cost of living as summer 2024 rolls forward.  Because every little bit helps, right?

Watch for Colin and Justin on Citytv’s Breakfast Television. Find the Colin
and Justin Collection in stores across Canada. Visit www.colinandjustin.tv