Bathrooms are unique – and often challenging – spaces to illuminate: Ideally, you want to maximize warm, soft, natural light as much as possible to make the space feel inviting. At the same time, preserving privacy and functionality means you can’t always utilize light from windows. Check out the following bathroom lighting Dos and Don’ts to make sure you are making the most of the room:

DO Flank the Bathroom Mirror With Lights
While an overhead or ceiling light can provide more comprehensive illumination, the lighting demands of grooming and personal hygiene are different. When looking in a mirror, you want direct lighting that minimizes shadows or splotches, allowing you to see yourself clearly. For this reason, always install lighting around a mirror so that you have an unobstructed, fully-illuminated view.

DON’T Add a Light Above the Mirror 
At the same time, a single overhead light positioned right above a mirror, no matter how bright, isn’t flattering or functional, said lighting designer Randall Whitehead.

“That would throw a strong light onto your forehead and cast deep shadows below your eyes, nose and chin,” Whitehead said. “Not only is this light ineffective for shaving or applying makeup, it can visually age you by 10 years. People should look their best when they look at their reflection.”

Bathroom illumination is crucial.

DON’T Create Uneven Illumination
While many try to create a relaxing or spa-like atmosphere in their bathrooms, using recessed or underpowered lights in a bathroom, according to San Francisco–based designer Geoffrey De Sousa, can result in a bathroom seeming underlit or casting unflattering shadows.

“Another problem is when people install too many recessed fixtures so the ceiling looks like a sea of black holes,” De Sousa told YLighting. “Asymmetrical lighting is another mistake. Placing a fixture on just one side of your mirror will create uneven illumination and make grooming difficult. Lastly, clear bulbs with filaments are popular these days, but they cast a shadow on everything. Go for something opaque or frosted instead.”

DO Put Lights on Dimmers
For homeowners looking for flexibility in their bathroom lighting, De Sousa recommended that dimmers can make the room more functional and inviting. These dimmers, combined with energy efficient LED lights, can also reduce your power consumption when you use the bathroom.

DON’T Ignore The Bulbs You Use
The kind of bulbs you use in your lighting fixtures don’t just have an impact on how much energy you consume, they also render color in unique ways. Lumens spelled out a few of the most common bulbs used in bathroom lighting and their various qualities, including:

• Incandescent, which cast a warm or cool white light.
• Compact Fluorescent, which, when paired with a Color Rendering Index over 90, displays colors in a way that simulates daylight.
• LEDs, which consume less electricity, last longer and are more easily dimmable.

Lumens recommended that each bulb should have an ideal color temperature is between 2700K and 3000K. De Sousa added one of his favorite bulbs for use in bathrooms is the MR-16 bulb.

“It works with low-voltage recessed fixtures and gives off crisp, clear light—up to 75 watts—but it’s dimmable, so it’s really versatile,” said De Sousa.

DO Consider All Elements Before Installing a Chandelier 
Chandeliers can be a beautiful, classically-inspired way to add illumination and elegance to a bathroom – but they can also be challenging. As This Old House points out, chandeliers require proper clearance, must be U.L. rated for moisture and protected with a ground-fault circuit interrupter to limit the risk of shocks. For bathrooms without the high ceilings required for safety, This Old House suggests installing decorative candle fixtures instead of a chandler.

Visit Wolseley Studio in Calgary or Kitchen & Bath showrooms in Lethbridge, Saskatoon or Regina and explore our wide selection of bathroom lighting fixtures. You’ll be inspired to take your water closet to new heights of beauty and elegance with the help of our knowledgeable staff.

When it comes to home decor, sometimes less is more. Or at least that's the case in light of the minimalist trend. Focused on improving your lifestyle through simplification, minimalism is not only a life philosophy, it's a popular decorating theme. Due to its sheer functionality and tendency to become cluttered, the kitchen is a room that can really benefit from this kind of simplistic design. By implementing a few of its strategies, you'll likely find that your kitchen isn't just more visually appealing – it's also easier to use. 

Simple doesn't have to equal boring. Use these tips to create a perfectly beautiful – and interesting – minimalist kitchen.

1. Get rid of the clutter
Your first step in route to a minimalist kitchen is to get rid of the clutter. And that doesn't just mean the old magazines and bills littering the counter. Take a look at the small appliances, fruit bowls and other decorative pitchers that reside in your kitchen and see which ones you can put away. The key to minimalist decor is creating as much empty space as possible, so make the most of storage that is behind closed doors. 

If you don't have a lot of storage space, you may want to consider getting rid of some of the kitchen items you don't use regularly. The blog Becoming Minimalist reported that unless you're an avid cooking and baking enthusiast, you can probably get rid of the following kitchen tools that are taking up space on your counter and in your cabinets:

• Knife block.
• Bread maker.
• Espresso machine.
• Rice maker.
• Panini press.
• Wok.
• Extra mugs.

2. Rethink your color scheme
If you really want to design a minimalist kitchen, grab your paint brush and get ready to rethink your color scheme. A solid color palette – preferably in neutral tones – is critical for this decorating theme. As an added bonus, this strategy doesn't only make the room look simpler. According to Apartment Therapy, using colors that are all in the same family with minimal contrast makes the area appear more spacious than it actually is. 

Using neutral tones that are all in the same color scheme on your walls and cabinets will create an open, airy feel to the room.

3. Switch out your faucets
Your sink is a great place to work on the minimalist theme. Switch out your current  faucets for a sleek, chrome option that will breathe a modern feel into your kitchen. To view a wide variety of choices for playing up this theme, visit a Wolseley Canada showroom where a sales associate will help you find the perfect faucet.  

4. Get rid of the knobs
Ready for a weekend project? Simplify your kitchen by taking out your current cabinet doors and replacing them with plain, solid-colored doors without knobs. If you don't want the doors to be completely plain, you can opt for a simple bar instead of more traditional round knobs. 

However, if you aren't looking for such a time-intensive project, just switch out your current knobs with a simpler option for a quick update. 

You probably store a lot of products, towels and other necessities in the bathroom. From toothbrushes and toothpaste to shampoo and shower gel, the room needs to hold a large number of things that are essential for both your morning and evening routines. Consequently, you may find that your bathroom can become cluttered fairly easily, especially if there's not a lot of space to begin with. 

No matter the size of your bathroom, the space will feel much airier once you've decluttered it using these five simple steps:

1. Use it or lose it
One of the simplest ways to declutter your bathroom is to set aside some time to go through all your products and decide what you actually use and get rid of the rest. After all, how many hotel shampoos and conditioners does one person really need? The same goes for all those odds and ends that are either broken or never used. Remember that blow dryer that hasn't worked for more than a year? Time to let it go. Sorting through all of your cabinets and drawers and getting rid of the things that you don't use will free up space for the products that you actually need. Plus, now you'll most likely have the space to store them in a more organized manner. It's a win-win. 

2. Clear the countertop
If you have guests coming over and need to get rid of clutter quickly, clearing the countertop should be your first step. If your bathroom is feeling a bit cramped, chances are that a lot of the blame lies with all the items that are laying out around the sink. Invest in some baskets and other containers to put in your drawers so it's easy to put things away quickly without creating a jumbled mess. 

While you'll probably want to keep a few things on the counter – like your toothbrush and maybe a box of tissues – try to avoid more than is absolutely necessary. Having that open area will help make your room appear more spacious. HGTV even recommended installing wall-mounted holders for items like soap and your toothbrush to decrease clutter on the counter. 

A clear counter can make your bathroom look less cluttered within minutes.

3. Make the most of your space
Even if you have a small bathroom, you probably still have room to create more storage opportunities if you get creative. For example, the empty space above your toilet is the perfect spot for a few extra shelves, as is the area under the sink. While it might be difficult to fit a full-sized cabinet in the bathroom, you may also be able to add thin or short  set of drawers in a narrow gap. Better Homes & Gardens recommended considering half-height cabinets under the windows for extra storage room that won't overwhelm the space.  

While extra storage options can really decrease the clutter in your bathroom, make sure you don't overdo it. If you cram every spare inch with a cabinet or basket, your bathroom will still look crowded even though it's more organized. If you have a nearby closet, consider storing some products there that you don't use as often, such as first aid supplies. 

4. Take advantage of the backs of doors
When it comes to storage space, don't forget some of the less obvious places, like the back of cabinet doors. Better Homes & Gardens recommended attaching magnetic strips or small hooks on those areas to help organize and hide away your smaller bathroom items, like manicure scissors or hair accessories. 

The back of the bathroom door itself can also be used for additional storage. You can easily hang a rack over the door that will keep your extra towels organized, but close at hand. 

5. Choose minimalist decor
If you have a small bathroom, or just want your space to appear larger, choosing a minimalist theme for your decor is the way to go. Keeping the esthetic of the room simple will help the space look less cluttered. Pass on clustered small candles and picture frames and opt for a single potted plant on the counter or a lone painting on the wall. A good rule of thumb is to avoid any decoration smaller than a grapefruit. When it comes to decorating your room, less is more when clutter is a high concern. 

You can also choose simple fixtures and bathroom accessories to complement your minimalist theme. To find the perfect options for simplifying your bathroom decor, visit a Wolseley Canada showroom, where you can explore a wide selection of faucets, shower heads and more. Sleek, modern fixtures will give your bathroom a clean, organized look that you're sure to love. 

Whether you're a gourmet chef or more of a microwave dinner kind of person, you probably spend a decent amount of time in your kitchen. Consequently, if you want to do some minor home renovation projects that you'll be able to enjoy on a regular basis, the kitchen is a great place to start. A few simple changes can make even the dreaded chore of washing dishes more exciting – or at least more visually appealing. 

When it comes to home renovation, sometimes little changes can make a big difference. Upgrade your kitchen this weekend with these five easy projects perfect for any skill level:

1. Paint the cabinets. 
Sometimes all it takes to freshen up your kitchen is a new coat of paint. You don't even need to worry about the walls – simply changing the color of your cabinets can really alter the feel of the room.  While a bright shade may be tempting, you might want to reconsider. According Oprah.com, you should opt for a more neutral tone. Jesse Carrier, of  New York City interior design firm Carrier and Company, agreed. 

"Go calm and light — you're in the kitchen all the time, and you can grow tired of a bright color," Carrier told the publication. 

His personal recommendation is a white with a gray undertone, as beige tones can look dirty and stark white is institutional. 

2. Install under cabinet lighting. 
There's nothing like a little mood lighting – even if it's for your kitchen. Add a bit of class to your countertops by installing under cabinet lighting. All you need to do is buy a few click on LED lights and stick them underneath your cabinets. Then, with the push of a button, you'll be able to turn on the lights whenever you need them, no complicated wiring necessary. Better yet, you'll also likely find that it's easier to read cookbooks and labels with that extra bit of light shining from under your kitchen shelving. 

You can't go wrong with an extra bit of light in your kitchen, especially when it comes to making your favorite coffee.

3. Buy new knobs. 
Looking for a little change that can make a big difference? Try replacing the knobs on your cabinets and drawers. All it takes is a screwdriver and a little bit of time. You should probably go for something classic if you already have a busy pattern on your walls or elaborate lighting fixtures as focal points. But if your kitchen is simple, consider opting for something more unique to make a statement. It's an extremely affordable way to dress up your kitchen. 

4. Remove cabinet doors. 
If your kitchen is narrow, Better Homes and Gardens recommended giving the room a sense of openness by removing the doors from your cabinets. And what better way to show off all of your favorite decorative dishware? Once you take off the doors, the publication reported that you'll need to fill the holes with wood filler and sand the areas until smooth before painting or staining the cabinets. 

A sleek, chrome faucet can give a modern feel to your kitchen.  

5. Replace your faucet. 
If you're tired of your boring fixtures, there's no need to deal them any longer. Replacing your faucet is an easy way to give your kitchen a different look. Go for something modern, like a minimalist, chrome touchless faucet. Or consider a more decorative option to finish off your farmhouse kitchen theme decor. With so many different styles, in regards to both function and appearance, changing this element of your sink can have a big impact on the tone of the entire room. 

Want to see a variety of faucets and other essential fixtures to complete your kitchen upgrade? Visit a Wolseley Kitchen showroom, where our experts will help you make the perfect decision for elevating the decor of your room. 

There are plenty of steps you can take to make even the most cramped spaces in your home feel larger and more inviting. Simple steps or small renovation projects can pay dividends in the look of a room and completely change its overall vibe.

Whether in the bathroom, the kitchen or the living room, there are clever tricks and simple ideas to make things feel a bit more spacious. Here are some of the best tips to consider:

The kitchen
Whether you're hosting guests for a mid-morning brunch or simply putting together a weekday dinner, a small, cramped kitchen is less than ideal. Rather than undergoing a full-blown remodeling, however, there are plenty of ways to not only increase the amount of space but to give the room a more inviting appeal.

For example, the National Kitchen and Bath Association told the DIY Network that installing a new, sleek appliance can help in the functionality of your kitchen as well as improve its aesthetic charm. Similarly, replace an old sink fixture for a model that is refined and elegant. Chose one or two upgrades to help make your kitchen feel less crowded.

To further make your kitchen feel bigger than it is, you should find ways to reduce unnecessary clutter. This might mean consolidating counter-top appliances but can also be achieved by simply cleaning up a bulletin board or getting rid of decorative knick-knacks. In any kitchen, a simplistic approach is a good choice, but in smaller spaces this becomes essential.

There are also a few ideas that are less obvious but subtly make your kitchen feel more open. Better Homes and Garden stated that a white paint job can go a long way. This reflects light and creates a new sense of depth and space. Even replacing wooden cabinets with glass ones if effective to that end.

The bathroom
Many of the same steps to take in the kitchen can also be used to make your bathroom feel bigger and less cramped. One step to take is to swap out an opaque shower door with a glass one. Matt Plaskoff, a former consultant to the show Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, told Oprah.com that this makes the bathroom feel like one big room, while a door that isn't transparent effectively cuts the room in half.

To physically add more space, you need to assess how much storage you truly need. If your drawers are full of useful items, then you may be best served swapping out a vanity for one that offers the same storage capacity but is a little more compact. Even saving a few inches can make a big difference in a small bathroom. If, however, you can afford to do away with bulky storage, there are many exciting options for making a positive change. A pedestal sink serves to open up the room and is an attractive new addition to any bathroom.

Overall, look to get creative about where you store your toiletries and extra towels. Replace bulky medicine cabinets for a simple, flat mirror. Install a shelf in the shower to place useful items. Make use of that hallway closet. Brainstorm what can be replaced or changed and consider additions that will be the most advantageous.

As in the kitchen, a fresh coat of white, eggshell or calming blue paint will give your bathroom a more open appeal. Consider changing out older light fixtures for simple ones that give the room character and also take up less space. For a larger project, consider installing a window or skylight to really open things up.

Even adding a simple shelf can make a meaningful improvement to your bathroom.

The living room
Like the kitchen, your living room is one of the most dynamic places in your home. You want it to be as comfortable and feel as spacious as possible. This starts with how you furnish the space.

Bulky furniture, of course, takes up what precious space you have, but HGTV found that mismatched pieces only exacerbate this issue. Your best bet is to chose items that aren't just simple and sleek but also work together to give the room a cohesive charm. Select colors and textures that don't clash too much.

You also want to pick furniture that is as useful as possible. Ottomans that offer storage space, tables with drawers and other pieces can be used to reduce clutter while making sure everything you need is accessible. A large decorative mirror, meanwhile, subtly gives the room a sense of depth.

From there, consider making a few design changes that will physically open up more space. Mount a television on the wall or try consolidating bulky arm chairs into a single love seat.

Around the home you have many options for making small spaces feel better. Above all else, look for ways to reduce clutter, integrate elegant furnishings and err on the side of simplicity. Head to a Kitchen and Bath showroom to find ways to make a positive impact at your house.