When it comes to creating the perfect ambiance in your home there are countless decisions to make, from lighting temperature to countertop materials. How do you choose between granite and quartz for your kitchen? Is the timeless appeal of stainless-steel appliances worth the investment? And what about flooring—should I go for luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or luxury vinyl tile (LVT)? If you’re wondering whether gray is still a trendy choice for your home’s colour palette, or if it’s time to embrace a new shade, this blog post will walk you through these key considerations, helping you make informed decisions that reflect your personal style and practical needs. Now let’s get into it!

How do I select light bulbs for my home? How do I determine what colour, tone and temperature will work best for me?

The best temperature for lighting in your home depends on the mood and function you want for each space. Lighting temperature is measured in Kelvin (K), and it ranges from warm (yellowish) to cool (bluish) tones. Warm white (2700K-3000K) creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere, making it ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas where you want to relax and unwind. Cool white (3500K-4100K) is more neutral and works well in kitchens, bathrooms, and home offices, where you need bright, clear lighting for tasks. Daylight (5000K-6500K) mimics natural daylight and is perfect for areas where you need to focus, such as workspaces or hobby rooms.

For example, if you love a warm, intimate feel in your living room, go for 2700K lighting. If you prefer a bright, airy kitchen, 3500K might be ideal. You can also layer lighting—using a combination of different temperatures in a single space—to create depth and flexibility in mood.

How do I blend different styles in one space?

Blending different styles in one space, known as eclectic design, can result in a unique and personalized look, but it requires a thoughtful approach to avoid a chaotic feel. We suggest starting with a dominant style for your foundation. For example, if you love modern design but also appreciate rustic elements, let modern be the dominant style, and then layer in rustic touches and details. We would also suggest using a consistent colour scheme to tie in different styles. If your base palette is neutral, you can mix modern furniture with rustic accessories, as long as the colours complement each other. Lastly, we believe that finding a common thread between the styles, such as similar materials or shapes, are a great way to help mix. For example, if you’re blending industrial and farmhouse styles, you might use reclaimed wood and metal in both styles to create harmony and cohesion.

What is the better countertop option for my kitchen, granite or quartz?

Choosing between granite and quartz for your kitchen countertops depends on your priorities in terms of aesthetics, maintenance, and durability. Granite is a natural stone with unique patterns and colourways, making each slab one-of-a-kind. It’s highly durable and resistant to heat, which is great for cooking enthusiasts. However, granite is porous, so it requires regular sealing to prevent staining, especially from acidic substances like wine or lemon juice. Granite’s natural look adds value and timeless beauty to a kitchen, particularly if you prefer a more traditional or organic aesthetic.

Quartz countertops are engineered from natural quartz combined with resins, making them non-porous and virtually maintenance-free. They are resistant to stains, scratches, and heat, making them ideal for busy kitchens. Quartz comes in a wide variety of colours and patterns, including options that mimic the look of natural stone. If you prefer a more uniform look and low maintenance, quartz is an excellent choice.

We would recommend choosing granite if you love the natural, unique appearance of stone and don’t mind a bit of maintenance, and opt for quartz if you want a more consistent, modern look with easy upkeep.

Are stainless steel appliances worth it?

In our opinion, yes! Stainless steel appliances are a popular choice for several reasons such as aesthetics, durability and resale value to name a few. Stainless steel offers a sleek, modern look that complements various design styles, from contemporary to traditional. Its neutral finish pairs well with any colour scheme. It is also durable and resistant to rust, corrosion, and staining, making it a practical choice for kitchen appliances that endure daily use. We find that homes with stainless steel appliances often have higher resale value, as these appliances are still considered a premium feature by many buyers. Overall, if you’re looking for a combination of style, durability, and added value to your home, stainless steel appliances are worth the investment.

What are the pros and cons of LVP and LVT flooring?

Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and luxury vinyl tile (LVT) are increasingly popular flooring options that mimic the look of natural wood or tile. Here’s a breakdown of their pros and cons.

Pros:

Both LVP and LVT are highly durable, resistant to scratches, moisture, and wear, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and homes with pets or children. They offer a realistic look of wood, stone, or tile, with a variety of colours and patterns to match any style. These floors are softer underfoot compared to hardwood or tile, providing added comfort and sound insulation. LVP and LVT are easy to clean and maintain, requiring just regular sweeping and occasional mopping. They are water-resistant, making them suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Generally more affordable than hardwood or natural stone, LVP and LVT offer a cost-effective alternative without sacrificing style.

Cons:

Despite their realistic appearance, LVP and LVT are still synthetic materials and do not have the same feel or value as natural wood or stone. Over time, LVP and LVT can fade if exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, which is no different than hardwood.

Using gray and white throughout my home, is it “in” or “out”?

Gray and white have been popular choices in interior design for many years due to their versatility and timeless appeal. While some might say the trend is fading, these colours remain classic and adaptable to many styles if done correctly.

Gray and white offer a neutral backdrop that can easily be updated with new accent colours, furniture, and décor. This makes them a long-lasting choice that won’t feel dated quickly. These colours work with various design styles, from

modern to farmhouse and can create different moods depending on the shade and how they are used. White, in particular, can make spaces feel larger and brighter, while gray adds depth and sophistication.

This colour combination may feel “out” because gray and white have been so widely used for decades that it’s become overdone, and they lack the personality of more vibrant colours. Currently, there’s a growing trend toward warmer, more saturated colours, such as beige, taupe, and even bold jewel tones, which add warmth and character to spaces.

If you truly love gray and white, you don’t have to abandon them. Instead, consider adding warmth with natural materials like wood, or introduce pops of colour through accessories, art, or furniture.

Making the right decisions for your home’s interior involves balancing style, functionality, and personal preference. From selecting the best lighting temperature to suit your space, to blending different design styles for a unique look, each choice contributes to the overall ambiance of your home. Whether you're debating between granite and quartz countertops, considering the investment in stainless steel appliances, or choosing between hardwood or LVP flooring, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully. And while gray and white remain timeless colour choices, incorporating warmer tones and natural elements can keep your home feeling fresh and inviting. With thoughtful consideration and a clear understanding of your priorities, you can create a space that’s both stylish and practical, perfectly tailored to your needs.

Our Most Frequently Asked Design Questions, Answered!