Worth the splurge

The fruition of a successful design project is the result of a dance between the necessary (a new roof), the responsible (a sturdy, well-priced sofa) and the sublime (an original painting). Determining when to save and when to splurge is a skill that good designers work at constantly. Here are my picks for home desirables that are worth the splurge.

1. Luxurious fabrics from trade-only showrooms. Why settle for "off the rack" when trade-only showrooms such as Brunschwig & Fils, Kravet Fabrics, Primavera, Robert Allen Fine Fabrics, and Telio & Cie carry an exclusive selection? Choose costly fabrics for high profile, low yield pieces such as pillows and occasional chairs; that way, you get all the impact with minimum cost. Designers Walk features these and other showrooms.
2. Proper lampshades. In the same way a baseball cap can spoil an otherwise flawless dress suit, the wrong lampshade can destroy the impact of a gorgeous lamp. Make sure lampshades are appropriately sized and structured to highlight the beauty of the lamp. RomEla and The Hardinge Collection might give you some good ideas.
3. Original Artwork. Since it costs just as much to frame a poster as it does to frame an original work of art, it makes sense to search out inspiring and thought-provoking artwork you can enjoy for years to come. Try attending student artist sales at local colleges.
4. In-floor Heating. Keep your toes warm all year long even when walking on uncarpeted floors. Nu-Heat, a Vancouver based company, with dealers across Canada, uses wafer-thin electric technology to deliver heat where it's most appreciated and promises consistent temperature, energy efficient usage, and warm floors. So welcome and comforting, especially at this time of year. It keeps tile, stone, laminate, and engineered wood surfaces at a soothing, balmy temperature. A small bathroom costs as little as $500.00.
5. Improved lighting. No room reaches its full potential without a carefully constructed lighting plan that features ambient, task, and decorative lighting. The addition of a reading lamp near a favourite chair makes reading a pleasure, an art lamp above a painting creates a focal point, and the addition of a crystal chandelier adds sparkle and drama to the dining room.
6. Good quality towels and sheets. First thing in the morning and last thing at night, our bodies come in contact with sheets and towels. A splurge here is one that you will enjoy daily. Au Lit and Elte are both great places to start for beautiful bedding.
7. Enhanced moldings for traditional rooms. The addition of a generous baseboard, intricate crown molding, or handsome chair rail can dramatically improve the character of your traditional home. In addition, it's a sound investment when it comes to resale.
8. Well-placed mirrors. Whether the goal is to brighten and lighten a space or to reflect something noteworthy, a well-placed mirror can offer immediate gratification.
9. Beautiful frames. A humble photograph, a fine-art masterpiece, or even the latest artistic creation from your toddler take on improved significance when fabulously framed. Sure, there are times when a ready-made frame will do, but custom framing reflects one's personal taste because you choose your own matt boards (paper, cotton, linen or fabric) and colours. It will protect your treasured art and mementos for years. Ron Hunt of Custom Art Concepts Limited (416-861-0544) whose company offers quality custom-framing says that "The last and most important finishing touch in completing a decorating project is the hanging of a properly custom-framed piece. This is often the most significant extension of a client's personality and taste." Prices for quality framing usually range from $150.00 to $500.00 and up. Because Custom Art's clients consist mainly of professional designers and firms, they work by appointment only.