Warm weather days have arrived, and the move back to outdoor living returns.
Living feels lighter and easier in the summertime; laid-back entertaining and alfresco meals are a welcome respite. Setting up for company takes little else than rounding up the deck chairs and shaking out a checkered tablecloth.
I do enjoy checking out home stores to see what's fresh and new for the picnic table in seasonal decor. Rolf Glass is a cut-glass studio that creates crystal and glassware with original distinctive images to suit any whim and party theme. Dozens of designs, from palm trees and dragonflies to rodeo horses and Tuscan olive branches are artistically etched into their glassware.
This year, they wanted to create a product that would make a difference and help spread environmental awareness. They turned to recycling for inspiration -- wine bottles, to be specific.
Using diamond-wheel technology, they produced a unique design that completely alters the look and feel of the wine bottle. The design, combined with the blue tint of the glass, is reminiscent of majestic glaciers, and so the name of the collection is Glacier Glass. Source through Rolf Glass or visit www.classichostess.com and click on bar glasses. This will make a brilliant conversation piece for my first summer soiree.
Dear Debbie: Our 1950-style bungalow is beige and has a light-coloured brick on part of the front around a large window. There is a deck with no overhang or rail that runs half the length of the house. The door is white. Should we paint the brick and house all one colour? Any suggestions on changing the look of the house would be appreciated. Judy
Dear Judy: To get a good indication of how different colours will look on the exterior of your home, do some research on the Internet, in design books and even around your neighbourhood.
You will discover similar architecture has been painted in various ways. Paint is the most economical way of changing the appearance of your home and there are some helpful tips. Use colours a few shades lighter or darker than the brick for a subtle contrast. (I wouldn't paint the brick -- it sounds like a nice feature.)
Keep to a neutral palette, but that doesn't mean strictly beige. Nature's greens and greys in light tones work well and will connect with the brick. Make the entrance door and porch a welcome feature with a fresh white or pale yellow. Choose a slight contrast for the trim around your large window (all windows).
Debbie Travis' House to Home column is produced by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Please email your questions to house2home@debbietravis.com. You can follow Debbie on Twitter at www.twitter.com/debbie_travis, and visit Debbie's new website, www.debbietravis.com.
