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in si de ha lto n. co m O ak vi lle B ea ve r | T hu rs da y, A ug us t 1, 20 19 | 16 SAMMCDADI 905.502.1500 sam@mcdadi.com Owner/Sales Representative B.Sc., M.B.A. SAMMcDADI'S HOME OF THE WEEK 311 Dahlia Trail, Oakville - $1,250,000 Advertorial Photo spreads in home design maga- zines can be awe-inspiring. Quite often homeowners wish they could lift the looks right off the pages of magazines and trans- form their own homes into picture-perfect retreats. It takes an eye for design to pull a room together -- even with inspiration -- and make it both functional and attractive. While hiring an interior designer is one way to go, homeowners can use some of the tricks and techniques the design- ers employ to do a remarkably good job of improving the interiors of their homes without such help. Embrace texture The colours used in a home can add impact, but designers often utilize vari- ous textures to create aesthetic appeal. A single colour scheme can be enhanced by various fabrics. Consider a leather sofa made more cozy with chenille pillows next to a rustic side table. Figure out ways to incorporate a few different textures to add depth to the room. Be careful with colour Many high-end homes showcase neu- tral shades that are enhanced by pops of colour. If you like a rich, royal purple, leave room for other colours as well. Add touches of purple in vases, throw pillows and other accessories. Also, many designers work in shades of three for room colours. There may be one main colour for walls, another colour for larger accents, such as couches and chairs, and then a third colour that pops in accessories such as flowers, pillows and collectibles. These can be any colours, but the most muted tends to be the more abundant shade. Add a bit of bling Glittery items and metallics can add a touch of luxury feel to any space. A shiny table lamp, mirrors, a sparkling chande- lier, and the like are easy ways to produce a high-end feel. Reflective surfaces also will cast light around the room, giving the illusion of a larger space. Choose a big statement piece Many homeowners make the mistake of filling a room with several small pieces of furniture that only contribute to clutter. Instead, look for a statement piece, which can be a cabinet, armoire or chaise. Mix and match large and small elements for a sense of balance. Accessorize Finish the room with accessories and flowers. When placing and hanging knick-flowers. When placing and hanging knick-flowers. When placing and hanging knick knacks and wall art, odd-numbered group- ings often look the most cohesive and in- teresting. Experiment with different scales and heights for even more dimension. When inspiration hits, take some cues from interior design pros to make spaces look like they belong on the pages of your favourite magazines. (MCC) Secrets to making your home look like you hired a design pro