Blog - Inspiration

Patio Furniture Care and Longevity

Whether you get to enjoy your backyard year-round or only during the warmer months, your outdoor space is an extension of your home. Selecting furniture that is comfortable and attractive as well as durable is essential for a well-appointed outdoor living space. Maximize your patio furniture’s longevity. Invest in long-lasting pieces that will give you peace of mind – even with years of use. Read on for tips on selecting durable outdoor patio furniture for your outdoor space.

Choosing the Right Material for Your Patio Furniture

Wood patio furniture is durable while also lending a laid-back look. Teak, cedar and eucalyptus are durable selections that can stand up to the weather, while furniture made from natural wicker, oak or pine are not as durable. If you live in an area that experiences high humidity levels or above-average rainfall, you may want to avoid wood, as the water can seep into the wood and cause mould damage. Likewise, if your patio is in an area that receives plenty of sun, painted wood isn’t your best option as the sun can cause the paint to peel.

If you prefer the look of metal patio furniture, steel, wrought iron and aluminum are all durable options. Aluminum furniture is naturally rust-resistant, which helps the pieces last for a long time. For steel or wrought iron furniture, look for pieces with a rust-resistant powder coating.

Plastic patio furniture has come a long way. Pieces made of resin wicker, such as the Minnesota Armless Patio Chair, are sturdy, easy to clean and come in colours and finishes that mimic the look of natural wicker. In addition, plastic patio furniture can withstand harsh weather and be left outside year-round.

The Importance of Maintenance

No matter how durable the material of the furniture is, it’s still essential to protect the pieces during harsh weather. When it’s cold and you won’t be using the furniture for several months, it’s wise to store the furniture in an outdoor shed or the garage. Covering the pieces with a furniture cover or tarp allows you to use easily use them on unseasonably warm days.

Regular maintenance of the furniture will help the pieces last longer. For example, wrought-iron furniture only needs to be washed with water and waxed several times a year, and you only need to rinse aluminum furniture with a hose. Wood requires more maintenance than metal furniture, but the pieces can last for a long time with the right amount of care. Wood patio furniture typically comes sealed, and you will need to treat it on your own, as well. Treating the wood furniture pieces with a sealer and regular oiling will keep your wood furniture pieces looking new for years to come.

Patio furniture cushions and pillows will make your patio furniture significantly more comfortable; however, some materials are susceptible to mildew. Select a water-resistant fabric with UV protection to help lessen the effects of sun and water damage. During high periods of use, these cushions should be cleaned monthly according to the manufacturer's directions.

Styling Your Patio Furniture

Patio decor ideas are the fun part of new patio furniture, and the layout of your outdoor living area is just as important as your indoor space. Make your patio space your own by adding in umbrellas, rugs, cushions and speakers that align with your aesthetic!

Arranging the furniture to facilitate conversation and ensuring each seat has a spot to rest a drink are two key factors to consider when arranging furniture, so make sure you have plenty of seating and table space for you and your guests. With outdoor furniture, it’s also essential to consider the weather: if you have an outdoor space that is covered, it’s best to keep your less durable pieces protected to prevent damage. If your deck is lacking in shade, an umbrella may be a necessity for you.

If your patio is on the smaller side and you need small patio decor ideas, a large outdoor rug can create the illusion of more space, as can sizing down the furniture.

Outdoor furniture often requires the same investment as indoor furniture, so selecting long-lasting, durable pieces is vital to protect the quality of your furniture. With the proper care, you can enjoy your patio furniture for years of summer nights to come.

Buying a television can be an overwhelming process, and you need to consider multiple factors such as size, technology and how you will display the TV. Whether you want a smart TV, the best TV for gaming or the best TV for movies with the family, this television buying guide will demystify the TV buying process. Read on for everything you need to know about buying a new television.

Choosing a TV Size

Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to selecting a TV. The two primary factors to consider when you’re determining the TV size you need are room size and budget. How far your seating is from the screen and how you will use the TV will help you determine the best size. If your TV is in your bedroom, you may choose to go smaller. However, if you need a TV for a media room, you may decide to go as large as the wall.

OLED vs. LED TV

The primary differences between OLED and LED TVs are quality and price. While LED TVs are priced starting under $500, an OLED TV is at least $1,000 for a smaller model. OLED TVs have a superior picture quality, are thinner, lighter and use less energy. The LG 65" 4K OLED UHD Television is a thin, art-inspired TV that doesn’t have a gap between the screen to the wall. The OLED pixels emit their own light for perfect black, intense colour and stunning picture. An LED TV, such as the LG 65" UP70 4K UHD Television, has a slim profile, enhanced colour and brightness – plus it comes with a lower price tag.

The 4K TV Difference

With "Ultra-High-Definition TV", also know as 4K resolution TV, millions of pixels join together to create the image on the screen. These extra pixels give a 4K TV more dynamic colours, allow you to see finer detail (even in dark scenes), and eliminate blur on fast-moving action scenes or sports.

A 4K TV, such as the LG 70” 4K Smart UHD Television maximizes your entertainment and gaming while enhancing colour, contrast, clarity and detail.

TV Wall Mounting

Most TVs come with a stand to allow easy placement on a piece of furniture, but if you would rather mount your television to a wall there are many styles of TV mount available.

A full motion wall mount, such as the Kanto PDX680 Full Motion Mount extends up to 24 inches away from the wall and offers 18 degrees of tilt. While the Kanto FMC1 Telescoping Corner Wall Mount fits snugly into a corner to save you space.

The Benefit of Smart TVs

With a Smart TV you can get the news, weather reports and connect to your favourite streaming services, like Netflix or Disney+ right from your television. Smart TV technology may include a full web browser (a computer built into your TV!) or a lighter version that displays apps just like your favourite smartphone. Either way, you need Wi-Fi available to access these amazing Smart TV features.

TVs for Gaming and Movies

If you’re serious about gaming, an OLED TV with low-latency and fast refresh rates, such as the Sony 55" BRAVIA XR A80J 4K OLED TV is 4K gaming-optimized powerhouse.

If you’re an avid movie fan, an OLED TV, such as the Sony BRAVIA XR A90J 4K HDR OLED smart Google TV provides awe-inspiring contrast and our brightest-ever OLED picture.

While there are many factors to consider when shopping for a TV, knowing how you will use it will help guide you in your decision. Whether you're a movie buff who wants to suspend reality with the best in ultra-high-definition TV or a casual viewer who values the convenience of a smart TV's built-in apps – with a little research, you'll find the TV that's best for you.

Toddlers are adventurous little people, as sweet as they are terrible, full of big opinions and big hugs. As your child transitions from a baby to a toddler, adjusting their bedroom to keep up with their changing personality will ensure their own space remains uniquely theirs. Some pieces can transition from infant to toddler years. However, other items need to be updated to better accommodate your toddler’s growing size, expanded interests and abilities. Read on to gather toddler room design inspiration.

Furniture Must-Haves

The toddler years go by quickly; investing in furniture that your child can grow into is a wise plan. When your toddler is ready to transition out of the crib, invest in a twin or full-size bed that they can grow into instead of a toddler bed. Adding safety rails to the sides of the bed will ensure your toddler’s safety. This bed will last throughout childhood and continue to provide space for them to grow.

The same concept goes for the rest of the furniture, such as the dresser and shelves. These foundational pieces can grow with your child, and you can easily update the decor as your child’s interests evolve. While your toddler may love an animal theme now, investing in pieces your toddler can grow into allows you to create new kid's room designs as they get older.

Create Space for Play

Toddlers learn through play. Creating a dedicated spot to foster this creativity is essential for their development and to keep them entertained. For example, a child-size table and chairs provide a place to colour and draw. Toddlers also love tiny spaces to hide and play. A tent, playhouse or canopy gives them ownership of a place that is theirs and lets them play and imagine.

Creating a cozy spot to curl up and read books with your toddler benefits you and your child. Whether it’s a corner filled with beanbags, a window seat with plenty of cushions or a plush chair to curl up in, creating a space where you can connect with your child will be a treasured spot for both of you.

Storage Spots

Your toddler has likely accumulated many clothes and toys by this stage, from clothes to stuffed animals to balls and blocks. An organized space will bring both you and your child peace and clarity. Children thrive in minimal and orderly spaces, so ensuring every belonging has a dedicated spot will go a long way in fostering your child’s development.

A bookcase in a neutral wood tone, such as the Boston 5-Shelf Bookcase, is an excellent place to store toys at the bottom and picture frames and other treasured knick-knacks at the top. This is a piece that can easily transition into your kid’s room as they grow.

A low, three-shelf bookcase is the perfect height for your toddler. They can easily access their favourite toys, books and stuffed animals. An option, such as the Grady 3-Shelf Bookcase, offers simple storage and is a neutral tone that can blend in with any aesthetic.

Recliners and Rockers

Although your toddler isn’t a baby anymore, they still thrive on cuddles and snuggles. Keeping the recliner from the infant days in your toddler’s room will serve as a spot to read books before bedtime or any time you are looking to connect with your toddler.

A recliner, such as the Jeffery Velvet Swivel Glider Recliner, has a plush, comforting fabric that will envelop you and your toddler, so you can read as many books together as they will sit still for.

The toddler years can be challenging but so rewarding as you watch your baby transition into an independent little person with a big personality. Ensuring your toddler’s room is age-appropriate will provide a backdrop for them to grow and thrive. Keeping these kid’s room ideas in mind as you design the room will keep it fun and nurturing.

Accent tables bring extra functionality to a room and add a design element that can make a room feel finished. In addition, a well-positioned accent table can serve as a decorative element, similar to a piece of art or lamp. Accent tables provide a surface to set down your beverage, rest a bowl of snacks and hold a table lamp, books and other decorative accessories. You can also choose an accent table with built-in storage for additional functionality. There is much to learn about accent tables, so read on for everything you need to know.

What can be used as an accent table?

An accent table is any table that isn’t a dining table. This could be an end table, coffee table, console table or nightstand. For example, placing an accent table on either side of your sofa or chairs can be an end table. If you place a larger accent table in the middle of the room, it can be a coffee table.

You can also use an accent table on either side of your bed as a nightstand. If you have empty corners that need to be filled, round variation, like the Nashik Accent Table, are perfect for displaying a table lamp, framed family photos or a plant. For the accent table to seamlessly fit in the space, it’s essential to measure how much room you have to ensure the accent table is completely functional where you need it.

How can you utilize an accent table in a space?

Before you invest in an accent table, determine how you will use it, so you can be sure to select the best table for your lifestyle. Choosing accent tables with a drawer may be your best bet if you need additional storage. For example, the Torry Chairside Table has a drawer under the tabletop to store batteries and remotes, as well as two round inserts to hold your beverage.

If you know you will be using it for food or beverages, perhaps an accent table with a non-porous surface would be the best choice. Round coffee tables, such as the Fano Round Coffee Table, are good for when you have young children, the rounded edge prevents injuries that could result from sharp corners.

What furniture does an accent table pair with?

There is an accent table for nearly every piece of furniture in every room. For example, a console table behind a sofa can define the space, whereas end tables flanking the sofa are perfect for a lamp, coasters and provide a place to set your drink while lounging. Also, a coffee table is great for setting out snacks when company is over or for styling with books, fresh flowers, a candle or other decorative accents.

In the bedroom, every bed needs a nightstand to rest your book, tablet, glasses, a glass of water, remote or any other bedside necessities. For entryway, an accent table is the perfect way to make a stunning first impression on guests while also complementing your entryway seating.

Should an accent table be contrasting or complementary in colour?

When selecting an accent table, you will want to be sure that it matches your room’s design aesthetic. Because accent tables are smaller pieces, you can take more significant design risks when selecting the tables. Choosing an accent table that contrasts with your room’s design scheme adds additional interest and prevents the room from feeling too uninspired. Alternatively, if you crave order and a cohesive look, selecting an accent table in a complementary colour may be the best choice for you.

What rooms do accent tables work best in?

There is an accent table for every type of room. Entryways, living rooms, dining rooms, family rooms, offices, bedrooms and even kitchens can benefit from the addition of an accent table. Whether the table is front and centre or tucked into a corner, accent tables bring function, character and serve as the finishing touch your room needs.

If you’re looking to add some new accents to your home, visit thebrick.com so you can browse accent tables in Canada. Then, get inspired to redesign your space for the new year.

The bed is the focal point of your bedroom, so the bed frame sets the tone for the room’s overall look and feel. A bed frame can also support a box spring, keep the mattress secure, and prevent a box spring from scratching the floor. If you’re in the market for a new bed frame, read on for bed frame ideas, learn about choosing the right style for your room, the different types of material to choose from and other details that go into selecting the perfect bed frame for you.

Different bed frame materials

With a wide range of bed frame materials to choose from, selecting the best bed frame for your lifestyle can be a significant decision. Below breaks down the different types of bed frame materials and why they may work for you.

Upholstered bed frames

An upholstered bed frame can be inviting, cozy and feel luxurious. The soft, cushioned headboard offers extra support and comfort. Upholstered headboards come in various fabric types and colours, tailored to any design style. An elegant, grey upholstered bed frame, such as the Portia Queen Bed is neutral enough to blend with any design style. If you have a large bedroom and you’re looking to make it feel softer and more inviting, an upholstered bed frame is a great choice.

Wood bed frames

Wood bed frames are traditional, elegant and can make a major design impact. Wood bed frames come in various styles. For example, a sleigh bed frame works well with a classic design scheme. A four-poster bed frame can blend in seamlessly with various design styles, ranging from classic to modern. A spindle bed frame, such as a Nashburg style, can help you achieve a modern farmhouse vibe. A wood bed frame such as the Kate King Bed is an Asian hardwood frame finished in a smoky grey-brown colour that can fade into the background or be the main focal point.

Metal bed frames

Due to its metal construction, wrought-iron bed frames are known for their longevity. Whether you have a rustic, boho or traditional bedroom, a wrought-iron bed frame will fit right in. A metal bed frame, such as the Nashburg King Bed is warm and understated yet offers an air of sophistication.

Your guide to picking the right bed frame material

Knowing the design aesthetic you want to achieve is one thing, but understanding how you use your bed is another factor. If you're debating between a wood or metal bed frame, there are several factors to consider.

• Comfort: Both wooden and metal bed frames require plenty of pillows if you like to lounge in bed to read or watch a show because the headboard is often hard and unforgiving.
• Maintenance: A metal bed frame can be lower maintenance than a wood bed frame, and both tend to be easier to maintain than upholstered bed frames. Metal bed frames requires a simple wipe down, where you may need to properly care for a wood bed frame to ensure it lasts long. As for upholstered beds, the upkeep often includes vacuuming and spot cleaning when necessary to avoid any potential staining or sun bleaching.
• Durability: Metal bed frames are known for their durability and can hold a lot of weight, making them long-lasting.
• Style: Wood bed frames offer more style flexibility, as it’s easier to update the look, depending on the bedding and accent furniture you select.

Is a headboard right for you?

While not everyone chooses to have a headboard, headboards to offer additional comfort if you like to lounge in bed to read, watch TV or work. They also create a more refined look and anchor the space. As an alternative to a headboard, you can hang curtains or a tapestry behind the bed frame to add softness or wallpaper the wall to add visual interest.

All about platform beds

A platform bed is a commonly used type of bed frame. They offer a sleek, streamlined look and are easily identifiable by its flat base. Platform beds don’t require a box spring; you can simply lay the mattress on the bed. In addition, some platform beds have hidden interior storage, which is great if you live in a smaller space.

Platform beds are an affordable option to more expensive bed frames that require box springs. They also fit well in smaller-sized bedrooms. Platform beds are lower to the ground than traditional beds, which some people may prefer.

If you’re looking to invest in a new bed frame, visit thebrick.com for the latest bedroom furniture trends. Then, kicking-off the new year inspired to refresh your bedroom.

A coffee table is one of the main heroes of the living room. It can act as a table to eat and drink, a surface to style or a place to kick up your feet. Coffee tables make a room look and feel finished and add a much-needed design element. Selecting the right coffee table for your space means sizing it correctly, styling it in a way that works with your lifestyle and ensuring that it aligns with the rest of the room’s aesthetic. They come in many shapes and sizes, so read on to help you decide whether you select a round, rectangular or square coffee table.

Why are coffee tables necessary?

Coffee tables allow you to use your living area from a functional standpoint most effectively. For example, if your living space is more casual, a coffee table can be a surface to set food and drinks on when guests are over. Or, if your room is more formal, a glass coffee table can host a beautifully styled vignette. If you need more storage space a lift-top table, like the Landon Coffee Table with Lift Top, may be best for you. The Landon’s two lift-tops let you and your guests enjoy a meal or work on a laptop while relaxing in the living room.

How high should a coffee table be?

To make sure the coffee table is scaled appropriately for the room, the height should be two inches lower than the sofa or chair cushion. Likewise, the length of the coffee table should be approximately two-thirds of the length of the sofa.

How to decorate a coffee table

If you want your coffee table to have a designer look, the secret to styling is balance. Having lots of small knick-knacks will make it look cluttered while having large pieces can be overwhelming and heavy. Varying the items’ size and scale will create a unified, cohesive look. Blending short and tall items will provide the visual interest the table needs.

If it is oversized and square-shaped, such as the Watson Coffee Table, it is treated as a grid, so focus on styling each quadrant. This makes styling the table more attainable and organized. Follow the rule of threes for visual harmony by grouping items in three’s the different quadrants. Or, if the coffee table is rectangular, such as the Izaac Coffee Table, divide the surface into three separate sections.

If you want your coffee table to balance function and form, you can style one side and leave the other side empty to invite friends and family to set down a glass or dish. Using a tray is a great way to corral all the decorative accents while efficiently removing it when you’re entertaining. Placing your decorative accents in a tray also creates more structure and organization.

If you prefer a more minimal look, only display one or two oversized items, such as a vase with fresh flowers or a large decorative bowl.

How to choose the right coffee table for your space

Before selecting a coffee table, identify what functional needs it has to serve. For example, if you need more storage in your living area, perhaps a coffee table with lift-top would be the best fit. If you have young children, choosing a round piece, such as the Veranasi Nesting Coffee Tables will help prevent any injuries that they may get on sharp corners. The Elroy Coffee Table with Lift Top is another great option for young children, as it has fabric around the edge for a soft feel and a cozy aesthetic.

Incase you need additional floor space, selecting a coffee table with wheels is an excellent choice to roll it out of the way quickly. The Roanoke Coffee Table with Lift Top and Casters give the table effortless mobility.

It’s essential to make sure the coffee table coordinates with the existing furniture in the room, such as the entertainment centre, sofas, rug and accent tables. A neutral coffee table made of wood, stone or metal coffee table is a great selection to coordinate with the existing furniture you already have.

If you’re looking to invest in a new coffee table, visit thebrick.com for the latest coffee table trends. Then, start the new year inspired to refresh your living space.