Flooring with a twist

Carpet, hardwood and tile...we've all seen many options and probably even have them in our own homes. Here are some unique durable takes on the standard options:

• Cork: A great option instead of wood. It's a green product, resists scuffs, is a natural insulator, comfortable underfoot and has many other pros.
  

http://www.torlys.com/Cork/tabid/432/Default.aspx

• Carpet Tile: If you spill a drink on your carpet, it's as easy as replacing a 2' x 2' tile, instead of your whole rug. There are many options in quality, color, patterns, etc. You can cover a whole room with this product or just create your own unique area rug.

http://www.shawcontractgroup.com/

• Vinyl "tile" & hardwood": These products can be well priced and good for controlling heat and sound. You can even use an acrylic grout for the tile, to give it a very realistic look. These floors are quite a bit more practical if you have kids and pets directing your decisions.

http://www.armstrong.com/flooring/products/vinyl-sheet/_/N-67sZ705?Ntt=vinyl+wood

Storage: Everyone's best friend

Storage is a necessity now more than ever. Here are some idea's to maximize your space to hide away every day clutter, kids toys, etc.

A trunk (solid or woven) can act as a side table, adding an extra space to throw away clutter

http://www.ikea.com/ca/en/catalog/products/60163174

If keeping open shelving units organized is a difficult task for you, use baskets to hide the clutter away and keep things visually tidy

http://www.ikea.com/ca/en/catalog/products/60149300

Adding a home office to a tight space is an easy task with this option!

http://www.restorationhardware.com/rh/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod1613173&navCount=3

We all have a pile of books beside our bed! Hide them away with a pair of these contemporary night stands

http://www.moeshome.ca/modules/store/PREZZO-NIGHT-TABLE-DARK-BROWN_P94464C5833.cfm?Page=3

This coffee table has closed and open storage options. Conceal remote controls in the drawers and pile books and extra throw blankets on the open shelfhttp://www.moeshome.ca/modules/store/CASSETTO-COFFEE-TABLE-BLACK_P99457C5832.cfm

As a coffee table, at the end of a bed, or as extra seating, this bench will help stow away books, toys, extra blankets, etc.

http://www.stylussofas.com/stylegallery_details.php?styleid=355&categoryid=3