A new home deserves a Christmas present as much as those who hang their stockings with care at the hearth. When planning a new home, budget for items that help the home function more efficiently or add enjoyable, liveable touches. Here are some suggestions from Calgary’s new home interior designers for “gifts” to a new home that will make every day better.
Cuddle into something velvety and luxurious, like this couch and chairs.
THE SOFT TOUCH
Make yourself comfortable as you settle into your new home, suggests Tammie Onslow, New West Group of Companies’ interior design consultant.
“A perfect gift for a new home is something velvety and luxurious . . . maybe a gorgeous chair,” she says.
Colours to consider?
“Navy and emerald green will be huge in 2017. Be sure to accent it with gold,” she says.
A wine dispenser keeps the entertainment flowing.
HOSTING
Julie Punter’s wish list concentrates on adding luxurious functions to the kitchen. The show home manager of selections and presentation for Homes by Avi knows what it takes to serve up a great gift for entertainers, foodies and hosts.
“We all spend a lot of time in the kitchen and adding a little luxury to your every day is what can make moments in your kitchen even more special,” she says. “My Top 5 luxury items for the kitchen are a built in cappuccino machine, warming drawer, wall oven, herb cultivator and wine dispenser. After all, everyone will make sure they have the necessities, however, who wouldn’t love to add an item that is pure indulgence?”
Chandeliers, like this one, bring glitter and warmth.
PUT A TWINKLE IN YOUR EYE
Bruce Harvey, director of show home design and merchandising for Jayman Built, recommends flipping the switch on a showcase chandelier.
“I would pick a chandelier as a gift for my new home,” Harvey says. “A chandelier would be the piece of defining jewelry in the home and add character. It would also add a warm glow, create ambiance and be a topic of conversation during dinner parties during the festive season and all year round.”
Beautiful lighting stands as art itself.
BRIGHT LIGHTS
Morrison Homes’ Selection Studio manager Carole Saguez would also focus on lighting.
“It’s your eye candy, it’s your treat, it tells about your personality,” she says.
Lighting can also pull double duty.
“You can forgo the art for a while if you need to, because lights are so beautiful,” she says.
Choosing exceptional lighting also means that extra details, such as feature wallpaper, can be put off until the budget allows without feeling the missing element as obviously.
A freestanding tub adds glamour and function to master ensuites.
SOAK IT UP
Take time to rejuvenate in a spa-like master ensuite setting.
“We would recommend a free-standing soaker tub,” says Jarod Silverson of Calbridge Homes’ 78 Design Studio. “It’s a delightful luxury to come home to at the end of a long, busy day.”
He notes that with the wide range of shapes, colours and sizes of soaker tubs on the market, there are choices to fit most budgets and spaces.
“With additional features like air or water jets, padded head rests and heated backs, you can truly personalize your tub,” he says.