home renovation, KITCHENS

5 Factors to review when Upgrading your Kitchen

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When the time comes to upgrade your home, the kitchen is often the number one choice for most families. Most of us consider the kitchen the epicentre of any home. If your budget is limited and a complete renovation is not possible, you can still achieve outstanding results by updating a few specific features. However, having a generous outlook on your expenditure will pay off in the long run.

A kitchen renovation will Increase the Appeal and Value of your Home

There are numerous advantages to improving this key area of your home. The illusion of space can be amplified, you will be able to enjoy modern functional updates, and your productivity will increase. When planning the details of the renovation, you should also plan to update the appliances in the room, which improves functionality dramatically. The alluring project can also enhance aesthetics as even the smallest of changes can make a massive impact. Lastly, remodelling radically increases the value of your home, which will make it quicker and easier to sell.

Upgrade your Appliances

There will be times when appliances stop serving their purpose. One way to upgrade is by replacing appliances with modern and appealing models. You can purchase newer models of ovens, microwaves, and cookware. A review of Made In cookware will help you decide on the best cookware you can buy to upgrade the overall functionality.

Revamp your Cabinets

Cabinets are one of the first features to be upgraded as they are an obvious requirement. They are also the first thing to get stained or damaged. If you want to modernize your cabinets, you can start with the hinges, and latches, as this improves the look significantly. Some homeowners even go so far as installing self-closing cabinet mechanisms which prevent slamming and allow you to take whatever item you want out of the cabinet and walk away without worrying if you have left it open or not.

Sinks, Faucets and Hardware

Sinks, faucets, and hardware are the third most replaced elements. These elements are often upgraded together with counters. New fixtures and more efficient faucets can make anything from washing the dishes after dinner to cleaning vegetables for a salad more pleasant. Enhancing these factors can even make your home more environmentally friendly.

Wall Design

The fourth most common design option that will have a massive impact is the walls. Whether you choose flat paint, a unique painting technique, wallpaper, or paneling, the walls can affect the look and feel of the entire room by influencing the first impression your kitchen can offer. Simple paint is probably one of the most cost-effective ways to spruce up the look as well.

As a homeowner, you cannot start tearing down walls or any permanent fixtures in preparation of making significant changes until you have a budget. Your budget should detail all the relevant costs when doing a complete kitchen remodel. If your budget is somewhat restricting, the modifications as mentioned above will undoubtedly cost far less than a renovation. You can still make impactful changes that will make your kitchen stand out more than before and be the space that you envisioned it to be. The features mentioned above are worth considering and will give you the most flexibility in designing your new dream kitchen.

SHOP KITCHEN …

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BATHROOMS, DIY, home renovation

How to install frosted glass film

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Glass doors, glass walls, glass room dividers, and large windows are very popular right now. But, once all that glass is used and people are actually using the rooms, there may be issues with privacy, sun glare, UV damage, Or security. The glass is fine, it just needs one more step to work better. Window films come in many different thicknesses, colors, and designs that will add design interest while giving people a little privacy.

Why Use a Film?

Installing frosted window film is not a hard project if quality films are purchased to start with. After purchasing good-quality window films, they must be installed by the supplier or by the building owner. The reasons most people decide to add window films are for additional privacy, added design and beauty, or added security. When completed some buildings or office spaces have a lot of glass in windows, walls, and dividers. While all that glass is nice for natural light and the appearance of more space, some people might need a little more privacy or the space might need more decorative elements.

Photo credit: DecorPad

An employee with an office with glass walls might want a little more privacy for meetings or for working alone. Windows might be in places where too many people can look into the office space. Adding a film can add privacy and security while allowing that valuable light to come into the office. Plane clear glass windows might need a little dressing up to add to the beauty of the business. Window films come in many attractive designs. The UV light coming into a space might present a hazard for fading materials or for causing a room to overheat or have an inconvenient glare.

What are 5 Steps to Install Window Film?

The beauty and usefulness of window film depend on how well it is installed. It should not have crinkles, folds, or tears to mar its beauty. There should not be any bubbles in the surface and the film should uniformly adhere to the window or wall glass. Five installations steps should include:

1. First, choose the correct window film for the job. There are lots of films on the market for different purposes and budgets.

2. Clean the glass area very well and dry it thoroughly. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for cleaning method and products.

3. Cut the film to cover the window allowing 1/2 inch extra all around. This will be trimmed for a perfect fit. Measure the glass space to be covered carefully because this is a project where there is no room for error.

4. Remove the film backing and wet the film or the window as per directions and position the film carefully on the glass. Reposition if necessary.

5. Finally, use a squeegee or other flat tool to flatten the film to the surface and eliminate any bubbles. Then, carefully trim any excess film.

Photo credit: HomeBunch

Films Can be Replaced

When the film is correctly installed it will add beauty and privacy to the room it is used in. And, there is an added benefit to window films such as these. They are easily removable, so if the building owner wants a new design, it is easy to change window film to a new design or color. When a rental office gets a new tenant, they can remove and replace the window film.

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CLEANING

Top-Rated Expert Home Cleaning Secrets

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Keeping your home clean often seems like an endless challenge for most of us. However, even though you may not be able to diminish specific tasks, there are several ways that you can reduce the amount of time you have to spend cleaning. Adopting the following expert tips will help you achieve and maintain the crisp, clean home you deserve.

1. Pressure Washing

Opting for a pressure washing company to clean your home may seem slightly extreme. However, this professional service should be an on-hand contact for any homeowner. Pressure washing will ensure your home never showcases ghastly mold growth in bathrooms and even in kitchens. Rather than spending entire days battling to manually scrub mold and grime from kitchen and bathroom areas, opting for a pressure washing service will minimize time. You will also only need to make use of such a service at most twice a year.

2. Develop a System

Small chores build up quite fast when neglected, even for one day. Unfortunately, there is hardly an effective method to avoid duties, although you can craft a cleaning system that will break up tasks into tiny efforts throughout the day. While some chores can be left until the weekend, getting your dishes clean and wiping down surfaces is ideally an everyday chore. Adopting cleaning habits such as always putting items away after use is also a great way to maintain a tidy home.

3. Installing Extra Space

Most homes lack enough storage space, and unfortunately, lack of storage is often the culprit behind clutter. Rather than wonder if you should endure the time-consuming process of decluttering half your possessions, it may be the perfect solution to install additional storage. You can add storage to your home with shelving, extra cupboards, decorative trunks, and several other appealing options. 

4. Dust, Do Not Spray

If your counters and tabletops seem dusty quite often, it might be possible that you are not dusting correctly. Oddly enough, most of us tend to spray surface cleaner onto clean surfaces and then dust them. This leaves counters slightly damp, which attracts dust. It is far more efficient to dust without spraying at all. You may even find that your dusting efforts are no longer required every couple of days, but preferably weekly. 

5. Have Cleaning Services Handy

Hardly anyone is immune to a hectic day, and as mentioned, it is undeniable how fast one day’s neglect can snowball. Therefore, it would be extremely beneficial to consider searching for reliable and reputable cleaning services to keep on-hand. Even if you are not planning on employing a service regularly, now and then you may find that a one day’s assistance from a cleaning service is enough to maintain your home’s clean atmosphere. 

Alternatively, you could also make use of a service to handle the trickier tasks, such as window cleaning and managing the laundry. Some services allow customers to select chores instead of having to pay for an entire home clean. It is always best to evaluate reviews of cleaning services before making any decisions.

SHOP HOME CLEANING PRODUCTS…

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BATHROOMS, home renovation

7 Reasons to Renovate your Bathroom

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People spend a lot of time in the bathroom – bathing, getting ready for the day or for bedtime, and meeting personal needs. So, this room should be a pleasant place to spend time in, it should be convenient, and it should offer privacy. If a person likes to soak in a tub, the bathroom should have a soaking tub. If a family member likes to take showers, there should be a nice shower. Homeowners are no longer settling for a small crowded bathroom that is inconvenient to use. They want more.

Is It Time to Renovate The Bathroom?

Because a bathroom renovation requires planning, effort, time, and financial outlay, it is a project that homeowners are reluctant to take on. But, home bathroom renovations are a good investment if they are done correctly. Homeowners may renovate their bathrooms for seven or more reasons. The bathroom that the buyer walked through when purchasing a home might have seemed OK, but after living in the home for some time, that same bathroom might not be adequately meeting the family’s needs.

Bathroom Renovations Can be Costly

The family may be interested in adding Cast Iron Bathtubs and other popular features. But, is it time to renovate? A serious bathroom renovation can cost from $12,000 to as much as $90,000. Some families do a lot of the work themselves to save money and some bathrooms get low-cost renovations such as a new bathtub or a simple paint job. This renovation project requires some licensed, professional help including electricians, plumbers, building contractors, and ceramic tile or natural stone installers.

Seven Common Reasons to Renovate Bathrooms

In addition to just hating everything about the family bathroom, there are practical reasons for taking on this renovation project. The reasons families renovate bathrooms include:

1. Make the bathroom function better with a better layout and more storage. Get rid of leaking toilets and faucets. Install a water-saving showerhead that functions better and makes showering more enjoyable. Add lighting above the vanities and other dark corners of the bathroom. Add a double vanity where there was only one sink. Add towel bars so everyone has adequate space for their towels.

2. Solve ongoing plumbing issues in an outdated bathroom by renovating the bathroom. Plumbing and electrical issues can be addressed during a renovation when licensed professionals are employed. Problems with drainage and water pressure are often caused by plumbing mistakes or old plumbing that needs modernizing.

3. Add value to the home with a bathroom renovation that meets modern bathroom standards for home buyers. The homeowner will spend anywhere from a few thousand to as much as $90,000 on a bathroom renovation so it should increase the value of the home and make it easier to sell the house when the time comes. A good bathroom renovation can have as much as a 50% return on investment for the homeowner.

The most important improvements to add value include updating worn-out items, getting new modern bathroom fixtures, and making the bathroom more functional. Take the time to visit home improvement centers with model bathrooms to learn what colors and finishes are popular now.

4. Improve the energy efficiency of the bathroom with new low flush toilets and water-saving shower units. Every aspect of an old, outdated bathroom can be wasting either water or electricity. New heating and lighting fixtures can save energy and improve bathroom comfort. Water is costing more and more, so using water-saving toilets and faucets is important.

5. Add a whole new bathroom where one is most needed. If the family home has only one bathroom to serve both parents and children, a new bathroom might be considered a necessity. Finding the budget and space to add a new bathroom could be a challenge. A master bathroom added adjoining the master bedroom would be a good investment. If the bedroom is large or has a guest bedroom next-door, space could be taken from both areas to add a master bathroom. Adding a whole new bathroom will require the services of a building contractor specializing in bathroom renovations.

This is because the new bathroom must be hooked up to the home’s existing electrical and plumbing systems. This requirement will limit where the bathroom can be located and may affect the size of the finished bathroom.

6. A renovated bathroom can better meet the family member’s needs including more storage. Even with a small renovation budget, homeowners can get the best return for their investment by concentrating on projects such as replacing the bathroom vanity, sinks, faucets, and countertop. Natural stone countertops are a good investment and are durable and easy to clean.

The bathroom flooring can be replaced with ceramic tile, good-quality vinyl, or natural stone tiles to be waterproof and durable while looking stylish. The new floor can also have radiant heating under it for added comfort in cold climates.

The tub and shower features can be combined or separate depending on the size of the bathroom and the budget. Especially in master bathrooms, a walk-in shower is a good investment. The tub should be a nice deep soaker tub if there is space for one.

7. Add beauty and style to the bathroom with a facelift that meets modern design and decor standards. Don’t use colors and decor items that will soon go out of style. Instead, go for a more timeless style and color scheme that will be enjoyable to live with for years to come. Add spots of bright color with towels and shower curtains that can be changed at will.

Keeping Costs Down

A homeowner can keep costs down by shopping for materials carefully and taking advantage of sales and closeout pricing. If the budget is limited, go for standard shower features and skip the heated floor feature. Go for quality, energy-efficient products with a timeless look. Don’t buy cheap products, take the time to find good-quality products at sale or clearance prices.

The effort and money invested in a renovated or new bathroom will pay for itself every day the family uses the room in its new, improved form.

SHOP BATHROOM ACCESSORIES….

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home renovation

Planning to Install an Air Conditioning Unit?

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When the time comes to install an air-conditioning unit for family comfort during the hot months, the homeowner must decide whether to purchase and install the air conditioning unit themselves or go to an HVAC company and have experts install the air conditioning equipment. This decision must be driven by the homeowner’s budget and skill level. Mistakes can be costly. Since wiring and plumbing might be involved, many homeowners choose to leave this job to professionals.

Hire a Professional HVAC Company

The easiest, safest way to get the house air conditioned for summer is to contact a company such as blairsair.com and have them inspect the home and suggest different possible air conditioning systems for the home. They can then give the homeowner quotes on different units and their installation. Choose a company that is licensed and insured with satisfaction guarantees. Check the company website for information and customer ratings and comments. Check with the local Better Business Bureau. It doesn’t hurt to get two or three bids and then choose the company that will best meet family needs.

Consider These 13 Mistakes People Make Installing Air conditioners

Before considering installing your own air conditioning unit, learn how to properly do the job by reading how-to books or watching online tutorials. Choose a system that lends itself to homeowner installation and comes with complete installation instructions. If the homeowner is hiring an installation company, make sure they avoid these serious installation mistakes. Air conditioning installation mistakes can be made doing the work one’s self or hiring the wrong installer.

1. Purchasing the wrong size air conditioning unit for the home. The size unit needed depends on the size of the house and the number of people living there. The room or home area should match the BTU or the British thermal power unit listed on the system. The unit capacity or strength should also match the size space to be cooled. A guide is that the cooling power should equal 2000 BTUs for every 50 square meters.

2. Mistakes with electrical wiring during the installation can affect the working of the air conditioner and can be dangerous. There should not be any exposed wires. This is where a qualified heating and cooling technician or licensed electrician must be used. The unit’s manufacturer’s warranty can be voided if a professional does not do the wiring.

3. Not enough insulation on the refrigerant suction line or improperly installed insulation will affect the efficiency of the unit. It is also important to check the system for coolant levels and leaks. A leak can cause health problems for those living in the home and also adversely affect the efficiency of the system, costing more in electric bills. Do not assume a new unit will not have leaks because it could have been damaged in shipping or during the installation process. The correct refrigerant charge is also important.

4. The suction line should not have right angles because this causes too much resistance and makes the air conditioning unit work harder to achieve the correct amount of cooling.

5. In both split and wall air conditioning units, there must be enough space on all sides of the unit for proper airflow and effective functioning. Do not plant shrubs or other plants too close to the outside unit in an effort to hide it.

6. The refrigerant pipes must not be too long between the outdoor and indoor units of the central air conditioning system. In addition, installers can choose the wrong size pipes or connections for the distances they will run. Read the installation manual for the air conditioning system being installed and use the diameter pipes specified for the length of run.

7. There may be permits needed to install central air conditioning. Make sure the permits that are needed have been applied for.

8. The airflow is not sufficiently considered. Air conditioning is a complex system that needs to be designed to meet the needs of each home. This includes planning cooling zones and sizing of the system. The air conditioning system must be carefully chosen for quality and efficiency. This includes containing a good filter system to protect the equipment, improving the air quality in the home, and reducing allergens. Some poor-quality systems do not include filters and draw dirty air from outside the home and dump contaminants into the home with unfiltered air. Some systems have the air filter assembly in the wrong location to be efficient.

9. The homeowner doesn’t get a signed contract with the air conditioning unit installer. Not hiring a qualified, licensed technician can void the manufacturer’s warranty.

10. Putting the thermostats in the wrong places. This might involve sunlight hitting the thermostat all day and throwing off readings. Using cheap thermostats that do not use the latest technology can be a costly mistake. Thermostats should be programmable with unit timers so they can be set to run less when no one is home to save energy costs.

11. When installing the air conditioning unit, the drip pan should be removed. If it is left on, the airflow can be reduced and the unit efficiency will drop several percentage points. Installing an incorrect drainage system can cause damage to the system and expensive repairs down the line. Water must be drained effectively and safely so it does not spill on other unit components.

12. The system ductwork must be properly installed and sealed to avoid air leaks and wasted energy. This is a place some installers skimp on the quality of materials or cut corners on labor. This is why only reputable HVAC installers should be used.

13. Air return vents must be correctly placed so they do not become blocked by furniture or boxes. The idea is not to hide vents but to place them where they do the most good.

If An Existing Air Conditioning System Needs Updating, Replace the Whole System

If one part of an air conditioning system is worn out, the whole system is showing wear. Whole-house air conditioning systems are two-part systems with an outdoor condenser unit and the indoor equipment that includes coils, bowers, and fans. The inside parts also include a duct system and thermostats. All the parts are designed to work together as one system. A mix of old and new parts will not work efficiently.

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BEDROOMS, KIDS SPACES

How to Design a Room Your Kids Will Actually Love

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Modern kid’s bedrooms are so much more than places where they go to sleep in their tiny bunk beds. Today, kids can get actual small havens where they can relax, learn and follow their interests. But how can you design a good bedroom without any previous experience? Here are some tips that will guarantee your kid will end up with a bedroom of their dreams. 

Opt for wallpaper

All kids change their minds super-fast: they might be into blue today, into pink next year and into black in two years. In order to avoid repainting their room every year (paint is messy and contains a lot of toxins) you can opt for practical wallpapers. Modern wallpaper comes in all designs, patterns and colors imaginable, so you can completely customize your kid’s room. The best part? Once they get tired of the design, you can just tear the wallpaper down and replace them with something new. 

Choose open shelves

Kids are very proud of their possessions, especially when it comes to cool toys, cute dolls and sports trophies. So, don’t hide these prized items in cabinets and toy chests! Instead, install some open shelving and allow your kids to display their treasures. This type of storage will also keep everything at arm’s reach at all times and there will be no forgotten toys at the bottom of the toy box. 

Include their interests

You might be dreaming of a modern Scandinavian coastal bedroom for your kid, but your little one probably has different plans. Make sure to include their interests in the design if you want to create a bedroom that will actually be used by your kids. For instance, if you have a really girly girl in the family, check out some kid vanities and fill them with kid-friendly makeup. If you don’t know where to start shopping, check out this Borncute guide and look into some reviews and recommendations. On the other hand, athletic boys and girls will love some sporting gear and memorabilia. No matter what they love, make sure it finds a spot in their room. 

Choose the right flooring

Young kids love to roll around on the floor, use it for reading and drawing and even take a nap on the ground. For all these reasons, you need to provide your child with warm and soft flooring. There are great rugs that can be washed and vacuumed easily and provide so much softness, comfort and beauty. 

Add some study space

Even if your kids are still too young for school, time flies and they will start first grade before you even know. Actually, no matter how old your kids are, they need quiet, comfortable and ergonomic space where they can read, draw, color and do homework. Luckily, a good study space doesn’t require a lot of space: a small desk with a quality chair and a good light source plus some storage are all a child needs. 

Let kids made some decisions

No matter how chaotic your little ones are, they can actually make some great choices that will help everyone be more satisfied with the design outcome. If you don’t want to let them pick the bed (you know they will choose something cute but totally impractical) you can allow them to choose between polka dot and striped bedding, red or blue carpets and canvas or wicker laundry baskets. This will make kids feel super proud and grownup and it will cost you absolutely nothing. 

 If you let your kids make a few décor decisions while you handle the technical parts, you’ll design a bedroom that will be their little private piece of heaven. A well-designed kid’s bedroom will grow with your child and always stay their favorite place in the world.

SHOP KIDS’ BEDROOM PIECES…

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HOME DECOR

Tips to Turn Your Bedroom into a Bohemian Paradise

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Sure, minimalist spaces are beautiful and elegant, but there’s just something missing about them, especially when it comes to bedrooms. Sleeping rooms should be cozy and warm—places that encourage relaxation and even hedonism, and there’s no better way to promote both of those than with a Bohemian design. Want to learn how to turn your boring bedroom into a chic Bohemian paradise?

Here are some tips to follow…

Mix and match patterns and colors

You might think you know a few fool-proof tricks for matching and mixing patterns and colors, but make sure to forget them before you start decorating your Boho space. Bohemian style doesn’t do well with rules, so feel free to experiment and be yourself. Matching florals and paisleys with tribal patterns looks surprisingly interesting. Clashing colors can also look amazing if you know where to stop—even though the Boho decor style is maximalist, it doesn’t mean you can overburden the space. 

Go wild with textures

Textures rule in every Boho space. Even if you don’t like a super busy space and overly bold colors, you’ll achieve that interesting and cozy look with textures. Luckily, textural interest can be introduced into a space in various ways: Think baskets, terracotta planters, macramé wall hangings, shaggy rugs, wood furniture, books…The good thing about textures is that if you notice you pushed things too much, you can always pair things back and create a space you can relax and fall asleep in. 

Add a few bold touches

Boho style is bold and daring, so make sure to look outside the box when it comes to accessories and decoration pieces. If you love the mysterious and witchy vibe, add some interest and spookiness to your bedroom with unique Skull Bliss art. Their pieces look very traditional yet modern which is everything Boho decor is about. Combine your skull art with a few interesting prints and you’ll have a perfect accent wall in your bedroom. 

Don’t forget books

Bohemian style is very cultural and there are no Boho spaces without art and books. If you’re a book lover, feel free to fill your bedroom with rows of books and they will look right at home in your space. No shelf space? Stack your books on the floor and achieve that coveted chill and effortlessly chic look. You can even use piles of books instead of your boring nightstands—it’s a great upcycling idea. Books equal good vibes, so welcome them to your bedroom! 

Add some relaxing seating

Your bed is probably the most comfortable spot in your home, but don’t let it be the only seating spot in your bedroom. Boho bedrooms are not only for sleeping—they are safe havens where you can escape from the world. A low-level armchair or a corner filled with throw pillows will make your space perfect for enjoying a good book or a short meditation session and fully embracing boho decor. 

Green up the space

You won’t find a Boho room that has less than three plants. While you don’t have to imitate what others do, plants are a must-have when it comes to Bohemian design, and for all the right reasons. The green color is very relaxing, plus, your green friends will supply your bedroom with fresh air without toxins which is ideal for a good night’s sleep. And don’t hesitate to go big and exotic with hanging plants and large palms. If you’re aiming for a desert look, cacti will look amazing in your bedroom (just keep them away from your bed to prevent accidents). 

Now, all you need to do is add a few cute light sources (fairy lights and lamps) to illuminate your Boho spaces and get ready to spend some seriously relaxing moments in your chic bedroom. A space that’s filled with good vibes will bless you with happiness and health for sure! 

SHOP BOHO FAVES…

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HOME DECOR, HOME STYLING

Create a luxurious and relaxing living area in your home

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If you lead a busy life, then the idea of having a room in your home that provides relaxation and calm whenever you need it is probably quite appealing. A place to unwind or spend time with family and friends can not only make your home a nicer place to be but can also do wonders for your mindset. If you have children, you will know only too well how much stuff they can accumulate, and if you look around your home, you might be surprised to note that their belongings have taken over every room!

If there’s a room in your home that is rarely used or has become a dumping ground for things that don’t have a home, why not consider transforming it into a clutter-free welcoming space instead? Here are 4 ways to create a luxurious and relaxing living area in your home. 

Choosing the right color palette

Color can completely change the mood of a living area, so it’s important to decide on a color scheme before you do anything else. Once you know the color palette you are going for, it will make it far easier to choose furniture and accessories. Websites like colorcombos.com are great for establishing colors that complement each other well. This can make it far easier to decide on the main color then add other colors into the mix by way of soft furnishings. Muted tones provide a far softer look and therefore work well to help create a calming and luxurious feel in any room.

Furniture

When choosing furniture for your room, it’s important to consider comfort as well as aesthetics. A modern sofa with clean lines and a picture-perfect look might be appealing, but if it isn’t comfortable, you aren’t likely to use it very often. On the other hand, a sofa with cushioning you can sink into is likely to turn your room into a space that you cannot wait to spend time in. 

In terms of other furniture, consider how you will use the room. If you intend to read lots of books, you might want to get a stylish bookcase and some functional side tables. If you want to get a TV but feel it would ruin the feeling of relaxation and luxury, why not get a TV unit with doors so you can conceal it when not in use? Think carefully about what you need and make sure your purchases are considered ones.

Lighting

Lighting can completely change the mood of a room. Stark white bulbs can make a room feel clinical and unwelcoming, whereas warm bulbs will create a far more inviting ambiance. 

A mixture of table and floor lamps illuminating all four corners of your room will create a fabulous layered lighting effect. Multiple lights will give you the freedom to change the tone of your room as you please and, depending on the mood you are going for, provide you with the ability to have your room well or dimly lit. 

If you are unsure of the lighting styles you prefer, it’s worthwhile looking online for inspiration. Stylish Direct is an online business that sells a huge range of stylish décor items worldwide. From modern wall lighting to more traditional floor lamps, they have an abundance of lighting options available depending on your preference.  

Finishing touches

From curtains and cushions to rugs and photo frames, soft furnishings and accessorize provide the finishing touches to a room. Without them, a room can look incomplete and will be far less appealing. 

Cushions and throws are a great way to add an even more relaxing and luxurious feel to your living area. Whilst you might be tempted to buy matching cushions and place in each sofa corner, it’s a far better idea to mix and match. Buying lots of different sized cushions in a range of fabrics and textures will add depth and give the impression that your room has been carefully and thoughtfully planned. 

If you want to add a more personal touch to your room, add family photographs in an array of frame styles to different areas of your room. Hanging art that you love on the walls will help to complete the room and add to the relaxing mood that you are trying to achieve. 

Filling the room with relaxing and warming scents that you love is another great way to change the mood of a room. Light candles or have some wax melts burning then sit back, relax and enjoy the peaceful and luxurious haven that you have created.  

SHOP HOME DECOR….

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HOME DECOR, INTERIOR DECORATING TIPS

7 secrets from an interior designer

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In the digital age, it’s easier than ever to design a well-organized, cohesive decor scheme. With some internet inspiration and a few simple guidelines, you can make your home look like you hired an interior designer.

Here are some helpful tips to guide the process.

Plan Ahead

One of the key elements of stunning interior design is planning out the various components before getting started. You can do this by spending an afternoon looking at design magazines and clipping images that inspire you. You can also use tools like Pinterest to create a vision board. 

Outlining the design features of your room will also help you develop a shopping list and budget. Give yourself time to shop around and compare prices. 

Choose Statement Pieces

Generally speaking, an interior designer will incorporate one or two statement pieces into each room. These pieces become the focal point of the design scheme with the room working around it. A statement piece could be anything from an ultra-modern couch to an elaborate chandelier. 

Remember that statement pieces are meant to stand out, rather than to blend into the background, so leave your preconceived notions about matching at the door. While the piece should fit into the overall decor, use a pattern, shape, or color contrast to help it stand out.

Keep the Layout Simple 

When it comes to interior design, less is more. Having too much in one area makes the room look smaller and cluttered. Everything in your room should be functional as well as fashionable.

Take some time to declutter and experiment with the room layout. You can use a room planning app to see how everything will fit before making any significant changes.

Focus on the Finer Details

It’s the finer details that make the most impact when trying to make your home look professionally designed. For example, adding custom hardware to RTA cabinets in the kitchen completely changes the look of the room (check out RTA Cabinet Reviews). In a living room, the pattern on throw pillows can take the room from mediocre to luxurious. It’s all about the little touches.

Build Over Time

Don’t feel as though you need to handle your design project all at once. You can make small changes over time to fit your budgetary needs and overall vision. This approach is great if you’re waiting to find that perfect finishing piece for your room as well.

Building over time will also help you create a unique look as trends continue to change. By doing so, your room will look less cookie-cutter and more professionally planned. 

Use a Color Wheel

A color wheel is both the simple and most powerful tool to have on hand when creating a designer-inspired room. This device can help you find contrasting and complementary colors that you might not have considered. If you have a favorite color in mind, this tool can help you build around it without risking clashing or being too matchy.

There are plenty of apps and websites online that replace the handheld color wheel, and can even print paint codes for you to take to your preferred paint store. 

Prioritize Lighting

Lighting is the element that brings a room to life. Don’t just focus on the colors and patterns; consider how you’ll set the ambiance. Getting as much natural light as possible is a must. Many designers will use mirrors and reflective surfaces to improve light distribution.

Light fixtures also play into the overall look of a room. Choosing warm lighting that reduces hard shadows can make the room look more welcoming.

With these tips, you can create a house that looks as though it was put together by an interior designer. Get organized, be creative, and add a unique flair that sets it apart.

SHOP HOME DECOR….

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FAMILY, HOME DECOR

How to Help Your College Kid Kit-Out a Dorm Room

how-to-help-your-college-kid-kit-out-a-dorm-room

Most of our writing on this site concentrates on our homes, and rightly so. But what of our kids when they go off to college? In their college dorm room, it will be essential for them to feel at home and not like they are in a prison cell. So, one thing we can do is provide help and assistance in setting up their college dorm room. There are usually specific rules on what they can bring with regards to furniture etc. and how they can decorate. Still, there is often some room for creativity and individualism in these situations. This guide will look at how best to help your college kid kit-out a dorm room when moving in.

Artwork

The classic student wall adornment would be the humble poster; however, if you have a bit of creative flair, there are other options. One that gives a little touch of class and also allows individual expression is getting some framed prints made up. This could be anything from photos of friends and family, to movie posters or artwork. These can be arranged individually or as a gallery wall making the best use of the space available, especially if they are sharing a room.

Study Furniture

Most dorm rooms come with a basic set up of bed, chair, and desk. It may be the case that you can change these for your own or maybe you are obliged to keep what you are given. If you are allowed to substitute, I would always advise doing so, studying with a suitable desk and comfortable chair can make it so much easier.

Entertainment

Young people today are used to a whole host of entertainment options, from TV services to gaming consoles, YouTube, social media, etc. You might be able to add them as additional users on your accounts such as Netflix or other such services. Even how to set up a TV or entertainment system can prove problematic, where to put a TV? Some stands and brackets can be used. 

Bedding

It’s always a time when kids tend to go with new bedding. They may find that the dorm is warmer or colder than the family home. It may be in another part of the country which has a different climate meaning different bedding would be wise. Sheets and duvet covers may be needed to be bought as it’s surprising how many high-school kids still have very juvenile coverings, and to avoid embarrassment, new and more mature ones are required.

Textiles 

Other fabrics that can be brought in from the outside would be blinds or curtains if the ones provided by the college are basic, unsightly, or too thin. Many people feel that a dark environment is paramount to getting a good night’s sleep, and for these dark, thick curtains or even blackout blinds to ensure a dark room. If you are practical and creative, you could even make your own giving a real touch of home about the place.

GREAT FINDS FOR YOUR DORM ROOM…

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