BEST TRENDS FOREVER

Lifestyle blogger Monika Hibbs layers classic style with the latest trends, combining looks that flock together like birds of a feather.

Lifestyle blogger Monika Hibbs layers classic style with the latest trends

WITH ITS ACRES OF FARMLAND,

grazing horses and mountain views, British Columbia’s Fraser Valley is a far cry from the seashore. But you’d never know that inside the local four-bedroom home that lifestyle blogger Monika Hibbs shares with her husband and their three young children. “It has a subtle coastal vibe,” she says of the space filled with watery blue and sandy beige accents.

In January and February, when the days begin to lengthen but winter still lingers, nothing could be more welcome than a breezy palette. “This time of year, I get the urge to clear out the post-Christmas clutter and start fresh,” says Monika. “All of a sudden, it’s so obvious that it’s time for a new table lamp and toss cushions, or to buy those larger items, such as a rug, that have been on my wish list.” Whether you’re feeling the post-holiday lull or the instinct to update at the start of a new year, this is a wonderful time to toss away things that aren’t working and bring in a little sunshine.

“When it comes to adding something small, trends

are definitely your friends,” says Monika. “They let you bring in a new look without a big commitment or crazy spending.” Even in traditional homes like Monika’s, where classic materials and forever furnishings are given priority, trends brighten things up. “In no way am I a trendy decorator, but I love using new things to explore and experiment,” she says. “A few cool toss cushions, a vase or a row of wow-factor bar stools have the power to revive your entire home for a low price.” It’s best to test trends in small doses and see how they sit with you, because fads come and go, but a piece’s staying power rests on its comfort, as well as how it suits your overall style.

Coastal blue accents are a case in point. Shades of denim and indigo conjure sea and sky. “Deep blue and rich grey islands in otherwise white kitchens are hugely popular right now,” says Monika. “Since I’m cautious by nature, a big change like that seems intimidating. But, by bringing in some navy blue in smaller ways, I’ve gradually grown used to its boldness, and now it’s

RIGHT Fun removable wall decals brighten the kids’ play kitchen, just off the adult one. PLAY KITCHEN, Pottery Barn Kids; PRINTS, Minted; lemon WALL DECALS, Urban Walls.

ABOVE & RIGHT, TOP &CENTRE While islands are always in style, “sinks are the new kitchen It piece,” says Monika. “It’s my sweet spot. Here, the kids help with dishes and I arrange flowers. I can also watch the kids from the window when they’re playing outside.”

ABOVE The landing at the top of the stairs en route to the kids’ rooms had always been empty. Since she walks by so often, Monika sought a little eye candy, so she bought the raw wood demilune console and uses it as a base to create pretty vignettes. “There’s always a fresh view when I climb the stairs,” she says. CONSOLE, Ave Home; PRINT, HomeSense; RUG, Caitlin Wilson Design.