smart decor & smart technology
Congratulations Mitsubishi I-MiEV: Greenest Car of the Year I was fortunate enough to have a chance to check out the Mitsubishi I-MiEV early in it's release cycle. Hopping into the driver's seat, it didn't feel all that different from a regular vehicle—until I pressed the start button and put my foot down. The car has instant torque, and instead of engine noise, whispers a faint hum. I was instantaneously whirring down the road, feeling like I was riding something out of the … [Read more...]
Products that aren't available where you are sometimes have an exotic allure. A certain pull that comes from hearing buzz and whispers, but never being able to try it yourself. Like when you're a kid in elementary school and everyone else has the newest Cabbage Patch Kid, but you're stuck saving up your allowance for months, there's a real potency to that itch you just can't scratch. For years, we've heard whisperings about Para paints. A Canadian brand that's based 'Out East,' and is a … [Read more...]
Inspired by California native flowers, mudcracks, and other natural elements, Casalinda Studio draws inspiration from the mountains, deserts, and ocean of Southern California. The handmade jewelry from Casalinda Studio comes highly recommended by me. Read my review of the Mud Cracks Necklace. I love knowing the personal story of the artists behind the jewelry. When someone comments on the beautiful necklace, I am able to tell them how a mother/daughter team Linda DaPra and Jennifer … [Read more...]
Why choose Cascades for your Christmas tree and gift wrapping needs? These products are eco-friendly, and unique! About giveaway products: Eco-friendly, 100% recycled Christmas Tree & Wrapping Paper: Standing six feet tall and made from 100% recycled cardboard, the Cascades Massimo Christmas tree effortlessly combines modernity and tradition. Our environmentally friendly tree comes complete with LED lights and is resistant enough to use for multiple years. Best of all, there is … [Read more...]
So you have some ideas for handmade items to get your favourite foodie, but what about something eco-friendly for the kitchen? While looking at eco-friendly/sustainable products for ideas on what to get your foodie gif recipient, also look in to the production of the gifts. It would be great to get gifts that are both eco-friendly and fair trade, in addition to being handmade. Sodastreams allow you to make your own soda so you'll reduce waste. Reclaimed Wood Salt & Pepper … [Read more...]
Eco-Friendly Metal-Smithing Inspired by Forests I am forever on the search for everyday earrings, preferably studs, to wear. I do love dressier earrings, but especially enjoy simple earrings like these for normal use—so my ear piercings don't close up. These Elliot Baby Bird (stud) earrings are both handmade and eco-friendly, containing as much recycled sterling silver as possible. Handmade These earrings are oxidized, so they are on the dark size. I'm rather pleased to have these … [Read more...]
Like a pantry-full of ingredients or a palette full of paints, there's something about a tradeshow floor that's thrilling. And from the latest solar technology to beautiful wood and granite products, Buildex offers up inspiration in spades. Here are some of our favourite products and presenters from Calgary's Buildex 2011: Colin Campbell - rugs & carpets We used to live down the street from Colin Campbell's Vancouver showroom, and enjoyed popping by every so often to check out … [Read more...]
Having a feature wall can do wonders to separate your space, draw attention to particular architectural features, or prized art work. It used to be that a feature wall could only be achieved by using a different wall colour for just a section of the room. Another way that you can create mood, and define a space is through a LED Wall Washer. I like using lighting to change the look of a room for a particular period of time, maybe a special occasion or holiday. Certainly, general lighting is … [Read more...]
As the sky begins to darken, there is light rain and fog. It's just after 9:00pm, and we're cruising up the Highway 5 towards the top of the Coquihalla Pass. Lanes and lanes of roadway climbing up a mountain toward the sky. All of the sudden a two-trailer semi barrels through the brake check station beside us. We're going just over a hundred and ten, and even if the road was dry, we doubt that we can decelerate or brake to avoid the charging behemoth. We've got no choice but to change lanes and … [Read more...]
Based in Vancouver, Union Wood Company creates unique, vintage-style furniture and lighting. . . Union Wood Co is simply, an aesthetic of vintage and industrial objects. Nostalgic of the solid floors of the docks, foundries, mills and factories upon which this city was built, and the men that did it. Union Wood Co. is inspired by the simpler times of centuries past, but living in today's modern lofts and heritage homes. Toledo Drafting Chairs Scaffolding Table … [Read more...]
Canada Only:
2 Tickets to Calgary Home and Garden Show Ends Wednesday Feb. 22nd
Win a complete pair of designer glasses (ARV $200+) from ClearlyContacts! Canada Only Ends Feb 29
