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Harlow & Thistle

This week we had the pleasure of touring the Silver Leaf dream home, the grand prize in the the Dream Lottery in London Ontario. This beautiful black and white masterpiece was built by Bridlewoods Homes and designed by 12 | 26 Design Co. There is something so sophisticated about any black and white design plan. The composition allows for the most dramatic contrast, the focal points are overemphasized and foregrounds are layered to perfection. Let's explore this home and the striking black and white interior design inspiration.

Striking Black and White Interior Design 
22:24:00 No comments
Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined House & Home magazine would be interested in my renovation project but friends let me tell you, dreams can come true. Last December House & Home contacted me to inquiry about filming my renovation project and I was in shock. I couldn't say yes fast enough. This project has been such a labour of love, this House & Home video is the icing on the cake. 


When they arrived on the day of the shoot I was so nervous but the H&H crew made me feel comfortable and relaxed. There is no rehearsal or practice for this video, they come into your home, set up and start asking questions (I prefer it this way because too much formal prep makes me nervous). On the other hand, I did turn into a bit of a "Chatty Cathy", as my husband would say, so I was happy they were able to piece it together in such a lovely way. Check it out and let me know what you think. Special thanks to House and Home for selecting my renovation project to feature on their site.



09:36:00 3 comments
In 2018 we saw a lot of exciting things in Interior Design. In 2019 we will see a flood of unexpected trends, everything from the 90's to canopy beds. I was recently quoted in a Style at Home article regarding my 2019 Interior Design Trends forecast and I thought I would go into more detail below:

1. Big Brass
We've been riding the "gold" wave for the past few years but in 2019 brass will take the reins. The muted tones of this metal add elegance and class to any space. Seeking out vintage pieces is a great way to incorporate this trend into your home.

2019-interior-design-trends-brass

2019-interior-design-trends-brass
Source: Amuneal

2. The 90's Are Back
90s trends have exploded in the fashion world and in many ways have been simmering in the interior design world for a few years. In 2019, 90s trends will have agency in interior design and, as with previous revivals, will come back fresh and inspired; we’re talking chintz florals, hollywood lighting, deep veined marble, chunky valences and puddled curtains - it’s all headed our way in 2019.

2019-interior-design-trends-the-90s-are-back

3. Take It To The Max
In 2019 maximalism will be a fair-weather trend, not for the faint of heart. With bold unabashed layering of prints, styles and eras the juxtaposition of the unexpected is at the heart of this trend. Throwing the rule book out the window giving credence to repetition and excess. We will see florals on florals, tartans on tartans, stripes on... well you get the idea. Plus, metals of different eras, an abundance of accessories and a focus on surfaces rather than storage. This wall to wall, floor to ceiling trend is expected to make a statement in 2019.

2019-interior-design-trends-maximalism

4. Wowzo Terrazzo
This composite marble is going to be big in 2019. You may remember it from the floor in your high school back in the day. Today's terrazzo will vary in size, colour and shape and will be used in floors, countertops and accessories. For an easy way to add terrazzo into your home check out these DIY terrazzo plates I created last month.

2019-interior-design-trends-terrazzo
Source: Bergman & Co

5. Canopy Beds
Renaissance canopy beds will be an unexpected micro-trend. They are turning heads and slowly making their way into our master bedrooms. We’re seeing these beds fully enclosed or with box-like crown canopy's adorned with ornate passementerie and curtains.

2019-interior-design-trends-canopy-beds
 Source: Sara Ruffin

Looking forward to seeing how this all transpires in 2019. Be sure to follow me on Instagram for more trends, tips and tricks throughout the year. Happy New Year!
13:19:00 No comments
While our small business is still very much in the early stages we have learned a lot coming out of the gate, things we have done well and things we would have done differently.

Over a year ago I left my corporate job, took an interior design diploma course, built-up my blog, and set my sights on house flipping as a side business. In discussions with my husband, who was branching out in his career as well, we felt it was time to register Harlow & Thistle as a company. The process to make our business official wasn’t easy and it definitely wasn’t always clear if we were headed in the right direction. Between government sites and business structures, accountants, and lawyers, our heads were spinning. It took quite some time, but after some research and advice from family and friends we eventually figured out how to register our company.

Ownr-how-to-start-a-small-business-harlow-and-thistle

If I were to do it again, I would have 100% used a service like Ownr, which is a new service  that helps make registering or incorporating a small business quick, easy and affordable. They cut through the confusion, making it straight forward and clear - plus they even do a name search for you.

If you’re like me, when you’re starting something new there’s usually some anxiety that comes with it, “should I do it?” “is it right?” and if things don’t go somewhat smoothly at the beginning you might take it as a sign to turn back. I’m sure the old confusing process of registering a company has deterred a few aspiring entrepreneurs from even getting started.

I’ve partnered with Ownr to help make the experience even smoother and I’m offering my readers an additional discount off registration or incorporation. Use the promo code HT-REG30 for $30 off registration and HT-INC60 for $60 off incorporation. Take advantage of these now before they expire on July 1st!

Ownr-how-to-start-a-small-business-harlow-and-thistle

Stop putting it off, launch that side hustle! If you have any questions about starting a business, leave me a comment and I’ll do my best to help!

This post is sponsored by Ownr. All expressed opinions and experiences are my own.
14:06:00 No comments
When it’s the coldest day of the year it’s hard to keep the kids entertained without succumbing to cabin fever. We just got back from a quick family getaway to the Deerhurst Resort over the holidays. Deerhurst packs their schedule with activities for the family during the holidays and March Break. Everything from snowshoeing to bouncy castles so we almost didn't even noticed the cold.
Deerhurst-getaway-harlow-and-thistle

It was the coldest two days of the year. I guess that’s not saying much considering it was only January 4th but in any case it was too cold for this Canadian girl. What better way to spend time inside than at Deerhurst? First of all the landscape is gorgeous so cuddling up with a good cup of coffee and staring out the window could have been enough for me... well it could have been if the kids weren’t constantly pulling at my arm to go do something.

Deerhurst-family-getaway

Deerhurst-family-getaway

We arrived just in time for Splash and Boots (included with our stay). My kids aren’t big dancers but when splash and boots came out my kids rushed the stage like a 90’s mosh pit and danced the whole time.

Deerhurst-family-getaway

The next day we had the buffet breakfast. It’s important to note, this was no ordinary buffet. We’re talking eggs benny, waffles and omlettes. The food was good and the service was lovely. It was a great start to our day.


Deerhurst-family-getaway

Deerhurst-family-getaway

Deerhurst-family-getaway

 Next, we decided to try the ice skating trail at Arrowhead National park. I grew up figure skating so this was a bucket list kind of thing. Unfortunately it was so cold we were only able to stay out long enough to snap a pick and jump back in the car.

Deerhurst-family-getaway

When we got back to the hotel we decided to go swimming (and hot tub to warm up). Our room was in the main building so we didn’t need to go outside to access the pool which was nice.

Deerhurst-family-getaway

Next, we hit up the Arcade and Fun Zone. Basically, Deerhurst filled their giant conference room with 5 bouncy castles! I was so happy when I saw these I almost cried. My husband and I were able to sit back and relax while our kids played until they couldn’t keep their eyes open. PSA - This Fun Zone is at Deerhurst during the holidays and March Break - Just saying.

Deerhurst-family-getaway

Deerhurst-family-getaway

Experiencing Deerhurst in the winter was better than I could have expected.

Deerhurst-family-getaway

Deerhurst-family-getaway

Our family loves Deerhurst. It’s becoming a bit of a tradition.
 Thank you Deerhurst Resort for hosting our family! 
This post is in collaboration but all expressed opinions are my own.  
10:25:00 No comments
I recently had the pleasure to attend "The Art of Entertaining" Homesense media event. The space was so beautifully decorated I wanted to move in. Each room had a different vibe and there were little vignettes displaying holiday decor for Thanksgiving, Halloween and Christmas. There was so much eye candy I had a hard time staying focused. And the cinnamon rimmed cider Prosecco was icing on the cake.

Homesense-harlow-and-thistle

After I posted some Instastories, a few of my American friend's messaged me wishing they had a Homesense in the US (add Homesense to the list of reasons to be a proud Canadian). Check out the pics below to see what's in store for @homesense this fall/winter season.

Homesense - the art of entertaining - harlow and thistle - cheese boards

 Loved the way these cutting board were displayed.

Homesense - the art of entertaining - harlow and thistle - 2

So many layers and textures - love it!

Homesense - the art of entertaining - harlow and thistle - 3

Homesense - the art of entertaining - harlow and thistle - bar cart

]Never met a bar cart I didn't like.

Homesense - the art of entertaining - harlow and thistle - pink tufted bench

Blush pink and burgundy - yes please!


Homesense - the art of entertaining - harlow and thistle - pink and grey

Homesense - the art of entertaining - harlow and thistle - 5

Homesense - the art of entertaining - harlow and thistle - marble tea set

I drop by my local Homesense on the regular so this event was a real treat for me (especially sans kids). With the holiday season just around the corner it was inspiring to get ideas on how to entertain without spending a fortune.

Until next time!


01:22:00 1 comments
Can you believe it's almost time to bring out the outdoor furniture sets? I'm so excited. This past winter my husband and I researched backyard patio ideas and patio designs, and now we're about to get the patio laid. Which means I get to start shopping for some modern outdoor furniture.

I was recently invited to check out the CANVAS Spring/Summer showcase 2017 with Canadian Tire. The venue was set up like a house, including a living room, office, outdoor patio, pool and backyard (complete with fireworks and an outdoor movie playing 'Back to the Future' ).  It was such a great event to gather outdoor patio ideas and learn more about cdn tire CANVAS furniture and decor.








Okay, I know what you're thinking, these bold colourful patio pillows will fade after one season (been there done that). Turns out the fabric is made with something called "Tri-pel technology" sounds super techy but in a nutshell it means that it will resist water, stains and fading - triple threat.


I'm loving how retailers are upping their game when it comes to modern outdoor living and @CanadianTire seems to leading the charge. So, if you're also looking for cheap patio sets without sacrificing quality or style be sure to check out Canadian Tire.

#myCANVASstyle 


 I'm going for a swim.

00:26:00 No comments
My husband had Friday off so we decided to head down to the National Home Show in Toronto (running March 10th to 19th at the Enercare Centre at Exhibition Place). Our main reason for visiting the show was to gather info and inspo for our upcoming patio renovation. Here's a quick rundown of some of the things I found interesting.


1. Best Buy Canada - Smart Home Solutions & Furniture!
Funny story, with all the great technology in this booth (everything from a Smart picture frame to a Samsung Smart fridge) my son was enamored with the wooden backgammon set on the coffee table. I couldn't get him to put it down. It got to the point that I told people he was part of the display and then joked that he was a robot or more appropriately a "Smart boy" (which he is...most of the time).

All jokes aside, this booth was by far the winner. Not only did the amazing Christine Dovey design it but I was blown away by all the cool stuff Best Buy has in store - including furniture! Yes, my friends, Best Buy Canada now carries furniture for your whole home not just your media room.



2. Canada Blooms
This section was very cool. It seems they were running a Canada them garden competition. The lights on this display set my hamster wheel in motion. We are definitely adding these lights to our patio.


My son found this amazing little man-made pond and gave it the thumbs up.


3. Arctic Spas
What's more inspiring then a hot tub? It's number one on our patio renovation list - actually my husband could care less about everything else. I especially liked the cedar surround on this Arctic Spa. I was told that cedar is great to keep mosquitoes away, who knew?


4. ard outdoor
I checked ard outdoor furniture company at the Interior Design show and loved their greenery dividers. They have so much on display at the National Home show it's hard not to be drawn in. I'm loving this set.


5. Enrich It Woodworks Inc.
Not outdoor living but I was in love with Enrich it Woodworks Inc. booth. The library ladder!? need I say more.


That's my round-up! There's so much more to see but those are my faves (mainly for my patio renovation).


Oh, and we ran into a Mountie at the Lowes booth which made my son's day (even though he was scared of him like Santa).

23:57:00 2 comments
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Hello!



Hi! I'm Andrea, I'm a Designer, a momma and a hopeless DIY'er. My passion to achieve luxe for less led me to create Harlow & Thistle, a place to get home design inspiration and modern DIY home decorating ideas.

Email me to collaborate: harlowandthistle@gmail.com

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