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If guests to your home extend their stays overnight, there are many different sleeping options you can offer them to avoid making them stay in a hotel.

Having guests over for an extended stay is an excellent opportunity to grow closer with visiting friends and family. These visits often involve your guests staying overnight in your home rather than a hotel, requiring adequate sleeping arrangements for each person. Making these arrangements can be difficult, especially when group dynamics or family politics play a role in dolling out the nighttime room assignments. Here is a look at several different sleeping options for guests to your home, along with the pros and cons of each.

Spare Bed

An extra bed in a spare room is the ideal solution for overnight guests. These are always the best option when one is available, especially for relatives. Spare beds provide a measure of privacy that many other options cannot match and are generally more comfortable than other choices.

The biggest drawback against spare beds is the added expense and space requirements. You will need an extra room to put the bed, as well as the frame, mattress, sheets, blankets, and pillows. Regardless, a real bed in a spare room will (still) always be the best option.

Couch

The same piece of furniture you lounge on for reading or watching television can double as a place for a friend to stay. Simply cover your sofa, sectional, or loveseat with a sheet, provide a pillow and some blankets, and your guest is set. Couches are great because they don’t require much preparation, and most people have one already in their home.

There are several cons to the couch, especially the lack of comfort. The other big knock against couches is their size. Typically, only one person can fit on each, and then you depend upon your guest to get up at the same time you do in the morning.

Convertible Furniture

The final category of different sleeping options for guests is furniture that can convert into beds. Here is a small bit of information on several of the notable options.

Futon

The seating option of choice in many college dorms is also available in an adult option that blends well into many living room styles, as well as smaller spaces. Though they do cost less than many other options, they are often uncomfortable, and those with joint problems may find it difficult to stand up off of them.

Sleeper Sofa

In many ways, a sleeper sofa is a step up from a futon. It looks like a regular sofa most of the time, but then the inside of a sleeper sofa opens to reveal a pull-out bed. There are many benefits to owning one, including the different sizes available, from twin to queen. Like other temporary sleeping options, these can be uncomfortable, with quality dictating the level of comfort your guests experience.

Daybed

A daybed looks like an odd hybrid between a sofa and a bed. These are usually twin-sized, but all you have to do to go from day to night mode is lay down on it. Many times, these beds will also offer a pull-out trundle bed for an additional sleeping option.

Creating a new aesthetic for your home can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Instead, read and remember these tips for developing a home aesthetic.

Finally, achieving your desired aesthetic in your house can be a dream come true. Being able to show off your personality and tie everything together to create the overall mood you want your house to portray isn’t necessarily the easiest home project to complete. Don’t get in over your head; take a deep breath and do your research. We are here to make this project easier for you so you can get the end result you want. Below are a few tips for developing a home aesthetic that might help you out!

Get Inspired

While you might have an idea in your head of how you want your home and the rooms in it to look, it never hurts to start at the drawing board. Take a look at other families’ homes, do some research online, read some magazines, and even watch a couple of shows on HGTV. All of these actions will help you get a sense of the different types of aesthetics there are, which will help you narrow down what exactly it is you want in your own home. By the end of your research, you will have a clear and concise vision of exactly the aesthetic you are aiming to create in your home.

Consider Function and Beauty

This is important, especially depending on who lives in your house and how you are going to use the space. Basically, you don’t want to pay an arm and a leg for items that are beautiful but won’t allow you to use the space regularly. Luckily, there are items out there that are both functional and beautiful, and finding those will be the way to go.

Always Start With Neutrals

Starting with neutrals will give you a solid foundation to build upon. Whether you are picking out a large piece of furniture for your living room or trying to match your kitchen cabinets to your countertops, making sure that you go with a neutral color will be crucial. It will be easier to add fun, vibrant colors in smaller doses later.

Only Splurge on What You Really Love

Whether you are only redoing one room, are making renovations to your whole entire house, or are building a brand-new home, it doesn’t change the fact that you shouldn’t blow your budget on items you don’t really love. It is important to remember that you do not have to spend a ton of money on everything you buy. Pick out the key elements that are extremely important and that you love, and splurge only on those items. Try to find affordable options that also contribute to your desired aesthetic to make up the remaining pieces in your home.

These four tips for developing a home aesthetic will help you understand where to place your priorities in this project and how to achieve your desired end goal in a reasonable way. In the end, just remember to not get too ahead of yourself. If ever you can’t decide on an item, stick with neutrals! Keeping these words of wisdom in your back pocket will ensure you end up with the perfect aesthetic for your home.

There are many things older adults must consider when buying new living room furniture to minimize the chances of the piece becoming a safety risk.

It’s easy to forget that a bathroom is an essential part of the house. It’s more than just a place to quickly get clean before returning to other tasks. The bathroom is a stronghold of self-care as well as hygiene. To get back into the habit of spending positive downtime in a bathroom, it’s a great idea to take a look at what is and isn’t working in yours. Try a few simple ways to incorporate luxury into your bathroom and make this room important again.

Reign in the Arrangement

We get used to just running in and out of the bathroom. With busy lives and other things to do it’s common to just run in and hop in the shower, blast some perfume, quickly scrub your teeth, and dash out again. The result of all this haste means a cluttered bathroom. They’re some of the worst places for clutter and inconvenient placement. While you don’t have to change the habit of ‘putting things where you can get at them’, a better way to control the clutter can make all the difference.

Try utilizing decorative ceramic boxes to contain the hoard of scrunchies, hair clips, and miscellaneous make-up items. A simple tray will help contain bottles and jars crowding up the counter. Cups, hooks, and shelves are good, attractive alternatives compared to stuffed cabinets.

Step up the Product Quality

All of your time and effort spent arranging and decluttering will mean nothing if you use unappealing items. While there’s value in having simple plain old soap and shampoo—especially if you live with minimalists—it’s just not very luxurious. There’s no reason not to have a basic bar of soap, but it doesn’t need to be displayed prominently. Instead, find quality scented soaps that have really rich aromas.

By using good soaps and shampoos, not only will you smell nice, but the scents will linger in the bathroom. The more you use higher-end products, the longer the great aromas will stay in the air. Try out some handmade soaps or treat yourself to some elegantly scented bath soaps. These types of items also make great gifts and are a nice way to get into the habit of better self-care.

Soften the Décor

Some other simple ways to incorporate luxury into your bathroom is to soften things up. Take a look at your design choices. Are there a lot of tight angles and hard lines? Do the colors and materials make bold statements? Metal and wood may be popular for bathrooms, but these textures and colors feel imposing.

Try emphasizing the feel of water with swooping shapes. You can also utilize gentler colors such as whites, greys, and washed-out greens, blues, and pinks. Think relaxing in the sea for your bathroom and leave the utilitarian stuff for the kitchen.

It doesn’t matter if you’re living in a flat in London, a beachside bungalow in the Bahamas, or a mansion in the Hamptons. Every home needs maintenance from time to time. If you don’t take the time to keep up on your home, sooner or later pipes will leak, appliances will break, or you’ll find yourself sitting in a draft.

Keeping up on your home’s maintenance is an activity that is important in both the short- and long-term. For the former, performing basic upkeep is a critical part of what keeps your home functioning on a daily basis. As far as the future is concerned, a well-kept home is much more likely to retain its value and sell for a higher price when you go to move.

With that in mind, here are a few home maintenance items — some bigger and others smaller — that may have slipped through the cracks since your last spring cleaning.

Clean Out the Dryer Lint

This quick task is one of the easiest ones to forget. At the same time, it can also have fairly significant effects on your home if only because it’s a big fire hazard. Start your home maintenance activities by checking your dryer to ensure that it’s lint-free.

Wipe Down the Walls and Baseboards

It’s easy to remember to mop the floor or vacuum the carpet. But what about the walls? If you have kids or a dog, gunk can end up all over these vertical barriers. Even without children or pets, dust and grime can still build up over time. Take a sponge to your walls — and don’t forget the baseboards, too

Re-Caulk the Bathtub

Bathtub

Bathtubs need to be cleaned regularly. However, even the most religious cleaning schedule can leave out the caulk or grout. This can lead to peeling, crumbling, and water damage behind the walls. Take a look at your tub and consider if a re-grouting or re-caulking is needed.

Seal Up Drafts

Drafts don’t just make rooms more uncomfortable. They can also impact your heating and cooling bills and the overall sustainability of your home. As part of your maintenance routine, look for any areas where drafts may be an issue. This can include doors, windows, and even a crawl space. Once you’ve found them, use something like weatherstripping, caulk, or expanding foam to seal them up.

Dust … Everything

Maid wiping the dust

You may dust once in a while before company comes over, but how often do you thoroughly dust everything in your home? Get a feather duster out and take some time dusting each room. Look for high up and out of the way places that can serve as dust collection hot spots. After you’ve dusted, it’s also a good time to make sure that you’ve changed your air filters, too.

Power Wash Your Exterior

So far, the maintenance has primarily focused on the inside of the home. However, the outside of your house is important as well — and not just for its curb appeal, either. Power washing the exterior of your home is a great way to give it an in-depth cleanup. It removes dirt and debris that can build up on your home during inclement weather. It can help preserve your siding, too.

Clean the Gutters

Washing Plastic Carport Roof

Along with the siding, it’s also wise to check out the state of your gutters, especially in the spring, as leaves, sticks, and other garbage may have built up over the winter. Removing these items from your gutter can ensure that they do their job properly.

In addition to functioning properly, clean gutters can indirectly preserve both your yard’s grading and your home’s foundation. They can also help prevent damage to your roof in the winter.

Remembering the Details as a Homeowner

Energy Efficient Home Exterior

Owning a home takes a lot of commitment. Even so, major home improvement projects often soak up the spotlight. But the truth is, it’s the little things that often end up being a bigger deal.

Ignoring drafts can lead to higher heating bills. Clogged gutters can spill over and erode your home’s foundation. Even something as small as neglected dryer lint can ultimately start a fire if you’re not careful.

So take some time to assess the current state of your home. Review the list above and look for any areas where you may be forgetting to keep up on things. If you can avoid more serious issues by doing so, you won’t be sorry you put in the effort upfront.

This post was authored by Sam Bowman

Avoid mistakes people make when buying furniture with these tips and tricks. Purchase the right couches, tables, and beds for your home the first time.

Even if you love shopping, you may not yet be a master at picking out furniture. These are often fairly substantial purchases that can add up quickly if you aren’t paying enough attention. You can avoid most of the common mistakes people make when buying furniture with some experience. Still, if you are a first-time homebuyer or renovating your apartment, these tips will lead you in the right direction.

Measure Your Space Ahead of Time

Handyman With Measuring Tape Assembling Shelf At Home

You don’t want to fall in love with a piece of furniture that will never fit inside your home. Know the dimensions of your space—and entryways—so that you can filter the options that will work for you when online shopping. If you are working with a salesperson, they can use this information to narrow down your options to only those that will work for your space.

Pro Tip: Consider creating a scaled floorplan of the rooms you want to decorate. This way, you’ll be able to visualize different ways a piece could fit into the space without blocking entryways or foot traffic.

Mind Your Budget

You might want to renovate your entire space or fill a new home with brand-new furniture all at once. However, you can make things easier on your wallet by choosing used furniture or items that are on sale. Do not let salespeople pressure you into making a purchase if you are not ready or cannot afford something. It is not your problem if they need to create more space on their show floors.

Pro Tip: If you are willing to wait for a sale, you might get a good deal around holidays like Memorial Day or the Fourth of July. Furniture stores often run sales during patriotic holidays.

Choose Practical Furniture

Couple choosing bar chair in furniture store

The type of furniture you buy should reflect the lifestyle you lead. Think about how your furniture will fit into your future. If you plan to move, have kids, or adopt pets, you may want to consider purchasing practical furniture. Tables with wings, sectionals, and sturdy shelves are worth your investment if you do not want to replace things in a couple of years—or months!

Pro Tip: Choose fabrics that hold up to your lifestyle, too. The leather vs. fabric debate comes down to whether or not you have pets or kids, as fabric will hide wear and tear better than leather.

Take Your Time

Like buying a home or car, purchasing furniture on impulse is never a good idea. Visit several stores and look at as many different layouts as you can. Whether you want a custom set or a pre-designed one, there is no reason to feel rushed into deciding. Take your time thinking about which options will represent your style, and conduct research to determine which stores and items have the best reviews.

Pro Tip: While you’re visiting furniture stores, do not be afraid to sit or lie down on the display pieces. You might not get another opportunity to make sure your couch is comfortable before you buy it.

Anyone can avoid these common mistakes people make when buying furniture by planning ahead and shopping with confidence. Take your time, and don’t let anyone pressure you to go over your budget. You can design the home of your dreams with these tips and tricks in your toolbelt.

Are you ready for a change in your kitchen’s design? For inspiration, check out these best DIY home kitchen projects that will help you upgrade your kitchen.

Once you move into a new house, it’s common to want to redesign certain details of your kitchen. Or, if you’ve lived in the same house for a long time, you’ve probably found that the same old walls, cabinets, and overall kitchen design have become a bit boring over the years. Fortunately, a disliked or stale kitchen design is not too hard to fix. Are you ready to design? Here are some of the best DIY home kitchen projects to give your kitchen a new look this year.

Install a New Backsplash

Beautiful home kitchen with white cabinets and backlight

Switching up the backsplash in your kitchen is an easy way to completely change the look of the room. Adding or changing a backsplash will give your kitchen walls a pop of color and texture. From classic white tile to tin tile to colorful arrays of blues and greens, there’s a backsplash for every style. If you’re feeling creative, you can even make your own unique design using individual tiles. Backsplashes will either come in preassembled pieces or single tiles that you must arrange on the wall yourself. For easy application, peel and stick backsplashes are also available.

Organize Creatively

Kitchen and kitchen table in the house

Organization is important in the kitchen, and it looks great too. If you’re always looking for more places to store pots, pans, and other utensils, try hanging them on an open section of the kitchen wall or a rack on the ceiling. To further incorporate your dishware into your kitchen décor, try replacing your cabinets with open shelving that leaves your wall exposed.

Upgrade Your Range Hood

Bright functional kitchen with kitchen island

Most people don’t think of range hoods as the pinnacle of kitchen style, but doing a range hood DIY project is sure to enhance the look of your kitchen. Designed to clear smoke, steam, and other fumes from your kitchen, a range hood is an essential appliance, but that doesn’t mean it needs to look average or out of place! Try matching your range hood to the other appliances in your kitchen, giving it a coat of paint, or polishing it until it shines.

Customize Your Cabinets

Beautiful kitchen interior with white cabinets.

Tired of your kitchen cabinets and drawers? Painting your cabinetry is an easy DIY project that will make them look like new. If you’d like, you can change the shade of the cabinetry, try out a two-toned look, or add some accent colors to your kitchen. Changing out the hardware on your cabinets and drawers is another small, easy project that makes a big impact. Plus, hardware sets for your cabinetry are cheap and easy to find—just check out your local hardware store.

Add New Lighting

Once you’ve taken the time to complete your kitchen upgrades, you’ll want to display them with good lighting! Adding lighting in and under your cabinets will highlight your china collection, your colorful backsplash, and more. If you’d like to change the look of your kitchen in a more dramatic fashion, try switching out your current light fixtures for a stylish chandelier or set of wall lamps.

To improve your kitchen this year, give one of these best DIY home kitchen projects a try. They’re inexpensive, easy to do yourself, and will help you design the astounding kitchen you’ve always dreamed of having. Why not give it a shot?

Double glazing is now a staple for most modern homes, and thankfully, long gone are the days where there is only a single pane of glass between us and the outside elements. While many modern builds come complete with double glazing windows already, there are still beautiful old builds that would benefit from this window upgrade, or maybe it is time to get your current double-glazing windows replaced. Whatever the situation, read this guide to double glazing to make sure you make the right choice for your property.

Modern House With Large Windows

What is Double Glazing, and How Does it Work?

Double glazing is essentially a window that has two panes of glass. These two sheets of glass create a sealed unit which is then nestled between a frame. In between the two glasses, there is a gap that allows an insulating layer of air, which keeps the warmth in and the cold out.

If you are still sporting single pane windows in an old build, double glazing is definitely worth the investment, as it makes a significant difference to your energy bills.

It is also worth noting that not only does it keep the temperature inside how we like it, but it also helps keep noise in and out too, as the two panes of glass disrupt and absorb soundwaves.

Pick the Right Rating for You

woman sitting near windows

Double glazed windows can each come with a different rating, and the rating you will be looking for will depend on what qualities are most important to you, and your budget. The rating quantifies how effective the window is at preventing heat from escaping, how effective they are at keeping drafts out, and how much sunlight can pass through the glass (for receiving solar heat).

The rating is categorized by the British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC) from G (the least efficient) up to an A+ (the most efficient) on the scale of the Window Energy Rating (WER). Other countries worldwide have a similar rating system.

What Style of Frame to Choose?

Old facade with windows and flowers

There are a few common types of frames to choose from, and all come with their own pros and cons. PVC frames are perhaps the most common frame as they are extremely easy to maintain and require no special treatment. Wooden timber frames are also popular as they have a great natural look to them and are also much better for the environment than PVC frames. However, wooden frames do require much more maintenance and care, which needs to be considered when fitting into your lifestyle. You can also opt for a frame that combines both timber and PVC, or even steel and aluminum – all of which are good long-lasting options.

What Downsides Can Double Glazing Bring?

While it is clear there are plenty of benefits when opting for double glazing, everything has its negatives. Double glazing is more expensive than single glazed windows, which will probably come as no surprise. However, it is best to see them as an investment, especially as you will save significant amounts of money on your electricity and heating bills. They can also be extremely difficult to fix if there is a problem, or impossible, such as a build-up of condensation, where you will have to replace the whole window.

The Latest Kitchen Design Trends for 2021

Are you looking to refresh the look of your kitchen? Below are the best modern kitchen design tips to consider when renovating your kitchen.

Spending almost all our time at home due to the COVID pandemic, a kitchen has become a multifunctional room for most homeowners. From doubling for makeshift offices, living rooms, and stores, it is an important place in a house. As such, upgrading it is invaluable for better living conditions or increasing its resale value. Below are some of the best kitchen design ideas to note. 

1. Rethink the Upper Cabinets 

Cabinets play a significant role in contributing to a good kitchen interior design. However, while they provide additional space, they are unnecessary. Interior designers encourage homeowners to update their kitchen cabinet design tools by finding ways of ditching these bulky cabinets for open shelves or alternative storage units. 

Modern design ideas recommend creating an open kitchen space easily accessible from other rooms. However, within such open spaces are wall shelving with minimal built-in cabinets. Additionally, such a design makes it easy to have everyday dishes easily accessible while displaying your favorite items. 

2. Wisely Hidden Appliances With Smart Technology 

Advancing technology has seen a surge in interest in smart devices, with most homeowners updating their kitchen with the latest technologies. Thus, there is a high demand for skillfully hiding stainless-steel appliances, especially with aesthetic wood paneling. 

Currently, homeowners prefer keeping small appliances, such as the best espresso machines, in their pantry or secondary spaces to prevent distractions and free up kitchen counters. Another design tip is installing paneled appliances where possible. This makes your kitchen overly functional while maintaining its style. 

3. Innovative Compact Kitchen Design

Homeowners with narrow or small kitchen spaces should adopt smart, compact design trends. This ensures that your kitchen has minimal clutter while providing maximum efficiency. For those with small rooms, carefully choose a layout kitchen design that ensures that every inch of the space is used. 

Good compact design concepts include installing a bank of cabinets along one wall to streamline and open the other space. You can also have tall wall units, which provide additional storage areas. Even with narrow space, feel free to install a breakfast bar or island in the kitchen. However, consider the dimensions to create a compact island that doesn’t restrict navigation around it. 

4. Use Warm Colors 

Even though white remains a popular color in any kitchen design tool, warm hues are also perfect for this space. They are known to evoke the feeling of comfort, offering a sense of home and peace of mind. Design experts recommend pairing these colors with natural wood, greenery, gold accents, and other complementing color options. 

5. Touchless Faucets 

Installing touchless faucets is another design idea that most homeowners should consider in 2021. The surge in their popularity could be due to increased awareness of the importance of hygiene or the need for hands-free functionality at home. According to a report by NKBA trends, the demand for hands-free faucets and motion control will likely increase even more in 2021. 

Similarly, voice-activated faucets have also entered the market and are in demand. Such trends are not only hygienic but also increase productivity in the kitchen. With these installations, you can wash your hands through simple commands. Consider the interior décor of your kitchen; for instance, matte black faucets are good for rooms with warm colors. 

6. Increased Storage Space 

The pandemic period changed what and when people cook. Similarly, homeowners purchased more appliances, utensils, and groceries, straining the storage. Therefore, the new designs should feature additional storage spaces. Depending on the interior, key storage areas to consider are the pantries and freezers. 

Freezers provide excellent long-term secure storage spaces in your kitchen. Therefore, consider replacing your traditional refrigerator with a larger unit. Pantries should also be expanded to accommodate more essential appliances. 

7. Better Indoor-Outdoor Connections 

Another design inspired by the COVID virus is joining indoor and outdoor spaces. A key element in 2021 will be a better physical and visual connection between the kitchen and the outdoors. As such, large windows and bifold doors can be used to achieve this. These might be costly but worthy installations. 

8. Statement Taps

No kitchen design is complete without taps. Therefore, 2021 is the year to have them shining. Unlike traditional tap settings, sturdy, industrial-looking taps with uncommon handles are a great way to complement your space.

9. Hidden Appliances

Even with the appearance of new technologies and kitchen gadgets, people must not necessarily see them. 2021 has an increasing appetite for discreet storage. Homeowners, scrutinizing their appliances’ aesthetic appearance, should consider concealed solutions to streamline the finish without affecting the style.

10. Living Room Furnishings

With the increasing popularity of open-plan, living room furnishing in kitchens are a modern trend. Unlike before, creating a comfortable and well-presented kitchenette is more important. However, try not to clutter the area with lots of items.

Bottom Line 

Over time, the kitchen has stepped up, becoming a family room, schooling room, office space, among others. Implement the ideas mentioned above to create a nice and trendy atmosphere. That said, if you have done this before, what other design tips should homeowners consider? Let us know in the comments.

Author’s Bio:

Ronald Pratt is a mechanic specialist who also enjoys working in the garden to make the perfect landscape. He can repair everything that’s related to a house and garden. Everything in his house is made by his hands. his free time he prefers surfing the Internet, reading and sharing his knowledge creating content

Rules are made to be broken as long as you know how to break them. Here are some tips for creative and constructive transgression of design norms.

Aesthetics are governed by rules. But once you’ve learned those rules, you can learn how to constructively break them. By taking risks, challenging conventions, and trying new things, you can make your rooms and the parties you host in them truly stand out. Throw out the rulebook with this guide to breaking the rules in interior design.

Vary Your Wood Shades

Modern style interior design 3D rendering

Some designers advise against clashing wood tones. But a room with only one shade of wood everywhere is a sauna. Unless you plan on heating your den to 120 degrees, don’t be afraid to mix soft blondes with hardwoods and rich dark stains. You can still achieve a rustic and earthy look with a variety of woods without falling into monotony.

Say No To Symmetry

The human eye loves symmetry—up to a point. If you took half of a person’s face and reversed it, creating a mirror image of one side, the perfect facial symmetry would be deeply unnerving. So, it goes for interior design as well. Everything need not be perfectly symmetrical in a room. Some constructive asymmetry can give the space a more organic feel.

Mix and Match Your Tableware

Table setting with white plate, linen napkin, olive brunch Trendy rustic table setting.

Who says everyone at the table has to eat from identical plates? You can achieve an eye-catching table setting with thoughtfully random combinations of colors and patterns. Plates don’t have to be either white or off-white—you can assemble an entire rainbow of colors at the table if you’d like. With disposable tableware options, you can try all sorts of new permutations and experiment with mixing and matching until you find an assortment you love—and then love another.

Try Furniture in Unfamiliar Places

By placing conventional furniture in unconventional locations, you can do some creative destruction of the design rulebook. While the dining room is no place for a kitchen sink, you have more freedom than you might think. For storage and decorative purposes alike, you don’t need to restrict a dresser or chest to the bedroom or its adjoining closet. A dresser in your living room can provide valuable surface space for displays as well as room to stow away entertainment media, blankets, and other non-essentials, all while acting as a bit of a conversation piece. A well-upcycled dresser can provide even more character and accent to your room.

Embrace Accent Walls

Loft style interior design 3D rendering

Convention dictates that we use one color for all the walls in a room. However, selecting a bold and bright color for one wall can really pop against the neutral colors we typically embrace for living and family rooms alike. A slate blue wall in an otherwise pale-yellow room brings life and dimension to the space.

Embrace Color!

When it comes to breaking the rules of interior design, shedding those neutrals altogether is one of the boldest ways you can do that. Whether it’s paint or furniture, bold colors can make your home inviting and unique.

To get the most out of your curb appeal, you’ll need to spruce up your driveway. Here are some ways to improve the appearance of your driveway.

We all wish our homes’ exterior was the talk of the town for being beautiful, fabulous, and having more curb appeal than you could ever ask for. We work on landscaping, beautifying our front porch, and updating any outdoor features, like our shutters or lights. But there’s one aspect of our home that we tend to overlook—the driveway. Your driveway is a major contributor to curb appeal. If it’s riddled with cracks, dents, and debris, it can harm other people’s perception of your home. A well-maintained, well-designed driveway, on the other hand, is guaranteed to turn heads. If you’re searching for ways to improve the appearance of your driveway, these useful tips and tricks are worth a try.

Get Rid of Unsightly Cracks

Over time, the elements can chip away at your driveway. Water from rainstorms can infiltrate your paved surface, washing away its sand and gravel base. With its base gone, the top layer gets distorted and starts to crack. Other things can damage your driveway, too. Simple things, such as rock salt, the shovel you use to plow snow, and the tires on your car can cause your driveway to crack, dent, or otherwise break. Let’s face it: cracks don’t look great. Repairing them can transform a neglected driveway into something clean, damage-free, and beautiful.

Make It Shine With Sealcoat

Another way to improve the appearance of your driveway is to sealcoat it. If your driveway is lackluster, sealcoating the surface can make it shiny and new again. Apart from making your driveway look great, sealcoating comes with a multitude of practical benefits. It prevents water intrusion, slows deterioration, enhances flexibility and skid-resistance, makes your pavement easier to clean, and extends the overall life of your driveway.  Before you sealcoat your driveway, you’ll want to make sure it’s clean of oil, debris, and other coatings and free of cracks. You can wash your driveway by hand or bring out the power washer. If your driveway is otherwise damage-free, a quick wash can make all the difference, even if you decide not to sealcoat it! But for homeowners who want to preserve their driveway and make it stand out, sealcoating is the way to go.

Add a Border

If washing, repairing, and sealcoating isn’t enough, you might want to consider adding a border or driveway edging to your driveway. You can add a brick or paver border in contrasting colors in either a single row or a more complex, multi-paver design. Like sealcoating, borders don’t just look good—they’re beneficial to the health of your driveway. Edging protects asphalt and concrete driveways against cracking and chipping. It also helps restrict the growth of tree roots and grass. This reduces the amount of maintenance your driveway needs over time, giving you more time to spend on your hobbies, relaxing with family, or whatever else you enjoy doing. A border will protect your lawn, too. Edging creates a visual barrier, which means visitors are less likely to step onto your lawn. It can also prevent soil erosion by keeping mulch, soil, and plants where they belong.

Deciding that you are going to utilize your unfinished basement as a new bedroom is a great way to utilize the space. 

There are so many things that you can do with an unfinished basement—one of them is you can turn it into a spare bedroom. Having an extra bedroom in the basement can be beneficial for numerous reasons, including having more space for your children as they get older, while also having ample space for guests. If you are going to renovate this basement space, it is in your benefit to go about it in the right way. Here are some tips for building a basement bedroom that will not only allow for the room to be structurally safe but also designed perfectly. Who knows—you might just want it to be your new room when the renovation is finished!

Fix Any Basement Issues and Declutter Space

Before you even start planning your basement bedroom renovation, it is probably best for you to clean up the space. Get rid of any clutter, reorganize storage items, and fix any issues you might have been ignoring over the years. By the time this step is complete, your basement should have no leaks, large foundation cracks, or bad piping. If these are still present, you are setting up the space for failure. 

Map Out the Best Plan for the Space

The layout of the space will have a direct effect on your idea for the new bedroom. Chances are you’ll have plumbing structures or existing doorways to work around. As such, be sure to consider the shape and design of the area when planning out where you’d like to set things up. Many professionals recommend taking a step back and creating a realistic map of what you want the basement bedroom to look like, as well as what features you want it to have. This will allow you to create the ideal space—whether this calls for adding walls or taking it a step further and implementing a half-bath. If you skip over this step, the room might not turn out just how you want it to.

Hire Somebody Who Knows What They Are Doing

Some individuals are lucky and have people in their lives who are professionals and can take on these projects themselves. However, this is not always the case. If you’re not a professional, you should do your research and hire somebody who knows what they are doing. For example, you need somebody who knows the ins and outs of basement construction, considering there are numerous rules on what you can and cannot do regarding the structure of the area. You don’t want issues and problems occurring because you had somebody unqualified complete this project. Plus, a professional who knows what they are doing will ensure everything looks just as you want it to!

These tips for building a basement bedroom combined with a perfect aesthetic and one-of-a-kind design elements will make for a wonderful space; way more wonderful than the unfinished storage area it was before. You will not be disappointed if you decided to turn your basement into a brand new bedroom—we promise!

We all want our home to look its best, but renovations and moving furniture isn’t easy. Let’s check out some simple ways to make your home look stylish.

We all want our home to look like a masterpiece straight out of HGTV or a home and garden magazine, but no matter how much we move our furniture, accessorize, and try out new design styles, nothing seems to work. If you want a stylish home, there’s no need to make drastic repairs or create dramatic arrangements. It’s the little things that count. Let’s check out some simple, budget-friendly ways to make your home look stylish so you can work on transforming your home into something that’s truly comfortable and magazine worthy.

A Fresh Coat of Paint

Female house painter paints walls indoor

Sometimes all your interior needs is a fresh coat of paint. If your walls are cracking, bubbling, or stained, painting them is a simple way to erase the imperfections. You can paint the walls in every room to create a cohesive color scheme, or add an accent wall for that extra pop of color.

Your walls aren’t the only thing you can paint, either. Painting your ceiling a dark, rich color will add depth and finesse to your interior. It can even create the illusion of a high ceiling. Tired of your old, boring linoleum or tile? Paint right over it. Feel like changing the color of your furniture or making small accessories stand out? What about your door frames and wall trims? With the right type of paint, anything is possible.

Get Creative with Curtains

Purple curtains in the bedroom

By using curtains creatively, you can add style to your windows, bathroom, bed, or wherever else you’re able to hang them. Update your existing curtains by making your own unique rod for them out of spare tree branches, rope or yardsticks, or give them an elegant look by adding a tie. Curtains are great for the bedroom. You use them to make a canopy, or curtain off your bed from the rest of the room. Want to include some color and texture in the bathroom? A long shower curtain can make the space look roomy. Whether you’re using thin curtains, thick curtains, or long or short curtains, they’re guaranteed to add some uniqueness and style to your home.

Don’t Neglect Your Mirrors

Mirror in the corner

Another way to make your home look stylish is to add mirrors in the kitchen, bathroom, dining room, or wherever else they’ll fit. If you’re living in a tiny space, you want to create the illusion of a big, spacious room. One of the best ways to do that is with mirrors. Mirrors reflect light, which can make your interior look bigger, brighter, and taller. A normal mirror will do wonders, but a mirror that’s stylish can do even more. You can turn a small mirror into a cute decoration or frame an existing mirror to make it look more luxurious. Golden accents can add luxury to your interior. Frame your mirror with something bold and shiny for an elegant and refined look. Add tall mirrors to your closets and entryway, a vanity in the bedroom, or a framed mirror above your fireplace mantle.

Minimalist spaces are soothing to the common eye but can lack a truly homey feel. Here are a few simple ways to warmth and comfort while saving energy, to a clutter-free room

Minimalism is paramount to countless individuals’ lifestyles nowadays. Thanks to the effervescent appeal and aesthetics of a more stress-free and clutter-free interior, minimalist designs are constantly on the rise in popularity.

While minimalism can allude to a sense of splendor and well-being, the style can radiate a less-than-covetable cold atmosphere in comparison to the warmth that more colorful and vibrant spaces tend to offer. Nevertheless, there are countless approaches to take to supply a sense of life to the simplest spaces. If you’re looking for some ideas, here are a couple of ways to add warmth to a minimalist home.

Keep It Quirky and Playful

Futuristic neon room with desk

Out of the myriad of means and methods to make a lifeless space into a vivid sanctuary, a top design approach is to add a pop of personality. Keeping things simple doesn’t mean you cannot supplement with various colors and contrast. Paint one wall a striking color, hang up a neon-lighted sign or art piece, and scatter a few patterned accents around the room.

Minimalism does not equal a stark white scene of serenity. Beautifully balancing soft materials, various textiles and neutral-toned furniture, and small doses of contrast will display a warm spirit that ebbs and flows through a room on a daily basis.

Use Your Green Thumb

House plants by the window

Another one of the best ways to add warmth to a minimalist home is through plant life. Yes, houseplants are key to a warm, comforting space, as they literally supply an increase of life into a room. They also provide a unique sense of fulfillment and an opportunity to nurture. Urban jungles and plant parents have emerged simply because plants make people happy. This earnest contentment radiates throughout minimalistic spaces. It’s best to keep it simple with only a few plants.

Truly, you don’t have to be a plant aficionado or expert to utilize this trend and capitalize on its idiosyncrasy. Artificial greenery can even add a burst of life that lightens up the mood of a clean, unembellished room. Either way, houseplants can provide many health benefits and a soothing visual that sustains inspiration and relaxation within an environment.

Get Lit With a Sizzling Glow

Fireplace

This fervent method of interior design can be either figurative or literal. All you need is to create a warm glow with focal features and décor. Metals such as brass, copper, silver, or gold in a kitchen, bathroom, or living room will cast off a welcoming glimmer. A couple of your favorite candles or ambient overhead lights can create an inviting ambiance within a sparse space.

Don’t underestimate a fireplace’s value, either. No matter if it’s traditional wood or a more modern gas-lit fireplace, the warmth and comfort this useful feature emits in a minimalist room can achieve the ideal synergy of clean and cozy. Remember how to best care for a fireplace to keep it functional year-round and make the space physically warmer. With the right care and design trends, your minimalistic home can transform into the perfect reflection of your ideals and lifestyle.

Moving into a dorm and the subsequent decorating is easily one of the highlights when you first start college. Having lived in the same bedroom for probably most of your life, your college dorm is a second home where you can make it your own, and put your own creative touches on a blank canvas. 

Most of the time when we think of a decorated dorm room, we picture fairy lights, mandala wall tapestries and poster boards. Many girls will often opt for the coordinated color scheme that matches their roommate’s too. And while this makes for an attractive esthetic, it doesn’t allow for much personal expression in a space that should spark joy.

Photo Credit: John Vicente

Look After Your Mind

You may be tempted to stick to cool, neutral or pastel tones in your room to keep it looking neat and clean, but in doing this you’re missing out on a real opportunity to use your living space to help you mentally every day.

The past year has been unbelievably tough for us all, but for college students who are learning remotely, spending extended periods away from home and missing out on much of the social side to college, looking after your mind should be an absolute priority. 

It’s so important to reach out for help if we need it, but it’s also a good idea to evaluate the external factors that you can control, and ask yourself how you can make the day to day a bit more positive for you. One of the single most simple changes you can make in your life, is introducing more color into your environment.

Color Therapy

Color therapy, or chromotherapy, is based on the idea that different colors and lights can help treat people with both mental and physical ailments. This is a centuries-old concept that was practiced in countries like Egypt, China, India and Greece, where they used colors and sunlight for their healing properties. This is something that has now been explored in numerous scientific studies, with interior design experts identifying how different color choices can hugely affect people. For example, blue can bring down blood pressure and heart rate, whereas yellow is said to exude happiness and comfort. Purple is associated with having a restful quality, but orange can evoke enthusiasm.

We all know that feeling that washes over us when we walk into a really beautiful space that masterfully uses color to really give a room a certain indescribable quality. This is something students can do on a micro scale in their college rooms.

Photo Credit: Cheery Designs

Be Bold And Add Some Color

As a young person, art is often misrepresented as something only available to those with a disposable income. But you can enjoy art in many accessible forms, from prints, to sculptures, or even a portrait of your favorite musician. Wall art is one of the best additions a college student can make to their dorm, as it doesn’t take up too much valuable space. Introducing a colorful piece into your living area may feel a bit out there at first, but the longer it stays in that place, the more you will notice just how powerful it is in altering your mood.

Especially when we find the days getting shorter in the winter months, the calm colors that you first fell in love with when you designed your room, won’t be so appealing when you’re craving some sun and brightness. In addition, the most special art pieces are the ones that you feel a personal connection to. Your art can transcend time by representing where you’ve come from, who you are in that moment, and where you want to be. Your art can represent something bigger than you and serve as a constant source of good vibes and positive energy. 

So when you return to college in January, take that brave step to tell your roommate that you’re digressing from that color scheme you both worked so hard to agree on, and make 2021 the year that you allow yourself to feel positivity and happiness in your environment with colorful art that sparks joy.

Elyssa Dorf is the founder and creative director of the New York design studio Cheery Designs.

When it comes to the design and appearance of your home, it is only natural that you want it to look its best. However, there are lots of things that can have an impact on the appearance of your home. This includes problems that stem from areas such as your crawl space, which is why you need to ensure you look after this part of your home if you want to maintain its aesthetic appeal.

While you may think that the crawl space does not need any attention because it is not an area that is used, it can have a huge impact on the appearance of your home in many ways. This is why you need to look after this area, and if there are any problems you need to look for crawl space repair near me so that professionals can come and sort out the damage. In this article, we will look at some of the aesthetic issues that may arise if your crawl space is neglected and in a bad state of repair.

Some of the Issues You May Face

All sorts of problems can occur as a result of a crawl space that is left to fall into a state of disrepair. So, let’s take a look at some of the ways in which this can impact the aesthetics of your home. These issues can arise because of the problems that damaged crawl spaces can create around your property.

One of the ways in which the appearance of your home can be affected is through the spread of mold and damp around your property. When damp and mold start to spread, it can make the affected rooms look unsightly. However, it is not just the appearance of the rooms that will be affected. It can also cause weakening of the walls, which can result in further damage. In addition, mold and dampness can lead to health problems and exacerbate existing health issues such as respiratory diseases. In addition, it makes it difficult to heat your home, which can have a further negative impact on both appearance and the health of those in the home – not to mention your heating bills!

Another way in which the aesthetic appeal of your home can be affected due to crawl space issues is by damage caused by pests. If your crawl space is neglected, it will be an ideal place for pests to breed. Once they do this, they can easily invade your home and they can then cause huge amounts of damage including chewing through wires and damaging walls and wood. This can have a profound impact on the appearance of your home but can also create hazards. In addition, pests can easily spread disease, which puts the health of you and your loved ones at risk.

These are just some of the ways in which crawl space issues can have a profound negative impact on the appearance of your home.

The ultimate outdoor space should be a reflection of your indoor living space. A covered area with comfortable seating, mood lighting, and organic elements like a water feature or fire make any outdoor space more inviting. In the last ten years, we have seen a host of high-end and speciality outdoor products moving into the mainstream market at much more affordable prices. Solar powered outdoor lighting can now be purchased at a fraction of the cost of the initial price points. These products are easy to install and can add the perfect amount of ambient night lighting. Additionally, water fountains or fire tables with bio burners can be positioned in such a way that everyone can enjoy the soothing sounds of the water or the illumination of the ambient light from the fire. If you want to improve the look of your house and upgrade its price tag, then you should certainly look at making some minor changes.

Light it up! 

Lighting is an easy way to create ambiance and expand your outdoor living space. Whether adding subtle light to a fountain, waterfall, hedge, or other important feature, lighting should create ambience and joy. Lighting is also the perfect way to enhance curb appeal, add safety, security, and financial value to your home. You will want to highlight your benches, florals, brickwork or even your water fountain. There is nothing better than a water fountain for soothing sounds and a beautiful view. It can be both a conversation piece and something to create your own private space. Incorporating something like this into your home could be exactly what your outdoor space needs. You could look at LED lights to place around the garden and on the edges of your fences. 

Keep it clean!

Don’t let algae, mould and mildew stains detract from your perfect outdoor oasis. Siding, concrete, and dirty furniture are not only unappealing, but they will also reduce the resale value of your home. Quick and easy cleaning with 30 SECONDS Outdoor Cleaner will leave your outdoor spaces looking like new.  

New windows and doors

You may want to look at Wombourne Windows to see how you could be inspired. Upgraded windows and doors improve the look and function of the space. New windows may keep out the damp and cold weather and a new door will also enhance the look of the exterior. If you keep older doors with outdated materials, you may encounter fungi, mites or bacteria, which can be harmful to health. 

Add decorations!

It is very important to use decorative accessories such as stones that are currently used in colours; that is, painted stones. You can also combine your space with equally painted pots and add flowers or shrubs. If you already have plastic pots, you can dare to give them a touch up! The use of dry logs is also a good option, and finally, adequate lighting is very important to highlight your space at any time of the day, since the exteriors should also shine at night.

Mailing out wedding invites is a big moment leading up to the big day. Before you send your save-the-dates, learn how to make them vividly stand out.

First impressions are everything, and little details make all the difference. When you’re designing your wedding invites, the assorted choices and available detail options can be overwhelming. Never fear—simply remember that wedding invitations serve two very distinct but diverse purposes.

Invitations formally announce the wedding to your friends and family, but they also offer your future guests the slightest glimpse into your wedding style. The perfect wedding invitations will have a balance of elegance, simplicity, and character to stand out on your guests’ fridges until the day arrives. Without further ado, here’s how to make your wedding invitations stand out.

Choose Sophisticated Printing Methods

Wedding invitations should set the right tone at the very first glance. While little details may stand out initially, the genuine backbone of the invitation is the actual structure printed on paper. When it comes time to plan out the layout of an invite, try to best convey information in a visually-appealing manner.

The choice of a suitable printing method will present this information most aesthetically. A few of these printing techniques such as foil stamping, embossing, or debossing are versatile enough to draw attention to a single location or elevate the piece as a whole. Foil stamping is a popular option to add flair and personality to an invitation. The appeal is realistic and comes in a variety of colors and finishes to create a memorable impression that is bound to last.

Fonts and Calligraphy and Lettering, Oh My! 

While a wedding day in itself is a day you desire to make most memorable, a more elaborate-style wedding invite may be the best way to express how special the day will be. Pick a particular writing or font style and run wild with it. If you desire to go simple, combine traditional typography formats with distinctive language to set the tone for the day. Hand calligraphy is a favorite lettering option that couples use for envelopes and invitations alike.

Tradition is all good and well, but sometimes it fares better to think outside of the box to stand out. Think about using unique brushstrokes that are reminiscent of paintings, or utilizing different font styles or sizes throughout your content layout. To make the invitation even more personal, consider tailoring the wording or font specifically for certain types of guests, such as a close friend or an older generation family member.

Wrap it Up With a Ribbon or Seal it With Wax

Customizations of wedding invitations are surely limitless. Some other vivid ways to best make your wedding invitations stand out are from the outside in. While the invitation itself is an optimal design space, it’s important to not forget about the opportunities the external components present.

Wrap up the invite with a sophisticated ribbon or stamp the back of the envelope with an adhesive artisan wax seal for a clean, modern look. Each technique has a wow-worthy factor with clear-cut attention to detail. No matter which designs or decorations you utilize on your own wedding invites, the finishing touches are sure to stand out because they are uniquely yours.

Don’t worry about having to find a dog sitter next time you plan a vacation and book a trip to one of these dog-friendly destinations instead.

Solo travel is empowering and exciting, but it can sometimes be nerve-wracking to leap into a new destination alone. Luckily, that’s what pets are for! Traveling with your furry companion still gives you the independent feeling of solo travel with a little extra support from your four-legged friend.

Don’t take your dog along for the ride and then leave them in the hotel. Take a trip to one of the best dog-friendly travel destinations so they can enjoy the vacation too.

Bend, Oregon

Visit Bend, OR if you’re looking for a more active trip for you and your pet. Bend has plenty of river trails, national forests, and lakes for the two of you to explore.   

Try a difficult mountain hike to challenge yourself and your pup, or go for a more relaxing off-leash exploration on the Deschutes river trail. Here, your dog can enjoy a walk with their companion and a swim in the river, while you enjoy the serenity of the nature surrounding you.

Sedona, Arizona

For a mix of the adventure Bend has to offer and something a little more enlightening, try visiting Sedona, AZ. There are plenty of red rock hiking trails to explore with your dog. After all the exercise, you can let your dog rest back at the hotel while you enjoy Sedona’s reputation for spiritual thinking. Take part in some physical and mental renewal classes to grow as an individual on your vacation.

Sanibel Island, Florida

If you’re simply looking for some R&R with your dog, check out Sanibel Island, Florida. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Sanibel Island has plenty of dog-friendly beaches. Enjoy lounging in the sand with your pooch or walking the shoreline together in search of seashells.

Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas has a variety of activities to offer you and your dog. Go on a 10-mile hike on the trail and boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake, or visit the pet-friendly lawn of the state capitol building. Check out any of the dozens of dog-friendly restaurants to savor the cuisines Austin is known for, such as Tex-Mex and BBQ.

Looking for a way to relax after trekking through trails and indulging in Austin’s cuisine? Austin pays homage to the phrase downward dog by offering “doga”–dog yoga sessions you can join with your companion by your side.

Asheville, North Carolina  

Ashville is a hidden beauty of the east, especially when the leaves start to turn in the fall. Walk around the gorgeous Biltmore Estate grounds or take a road trip with your dog along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Choose from a range of hiking trails, beautiful lookout points perfect for a photo op, or dip into a quaint mountain town for a souvenir.

Bringing your dog along on your next solo vacation can make your trip alone seem a little less daunting. Visit one of the best dog-friendly travel destinations to make sure it’s a trip you both enjoy.

Home sunrooms don’t have to be limited to one function. Discover how to convert your conservatory into a bedroom to make it a welcoming space for guests.

Sunrooms, or conservatories, are the ultimate home addition for those who want to embrace natural light. However, when the time comes to do something different with this space, their traditional design often leaves little room for alteration. Fortunately, some changes are possible with hard work and a steer in the right direction. Here is how to convert your conservatory into a bedroom to ensure it’s a fully-functioning, beautiful part of your home.

Insulate the Roof

The first crucial step to creating a bedroom out of a conservatory is to ensure that this space can maintain a comfortable climate. Since these rooms feature windows as their dominant characteristic, it’s very easy for heat or air conditioning to escape through the small cracks between the glass and its frame. This makes it difficult to keep the room habitable in summer or winter—and even leads to higher energy bills, so it’s best to set about insulating the roof before anything else.

Install Additional Lighting

It’s also important to install additional lighting in your conservatory. While the room’s daytime lighting will still come directly from the sun, bedrooms see the most use after dark. As such, supplemental lighting is crucial in this room, regardless of what the conditions are like outdoors. Additionally, adding insulation to your conservatory’s roof likely cover any skylights that would otherwise provide illumination. Therefore, artificial lighting is a great way to brighten things up again.

Increase Ventilation Capabilities

Converting your conservatory into a bedroom should involve increasing its ventilation as well. Sunrooms are typically water-tight—protecting the interior from the elements and providing you with a safe, dry shelter from storms. Unfortunately, this also causes the air indoors to become stagnant and stale after a time. As such, you’ll need to incorporate a few ways to keep fresh air moving through the space. Two effective ways to do this are by installing ceiling fans or building a few roof vents into your newly insulated ceiling.

Update Security

Another crucial step to take during this project is to update the room’s security. Once this space becomes a bedroom, individuals should no longer be able to walk in and out as they please. Otherwise, the resident’s privacy and overall comfort are at risk. For this reason, make sure that you install new locks on your sunroom doors and even replace the doors themselves if they aren’t strong enough. You should also install adjustable blinds or curtains along the surrounding windows to increase privacy and make the room more accommodating.

Reduce Noise

But for this space to be a haven for sleep, it also needs to be able to dampen noise. Former conservatories typically lack enough insulation to prevent outdoor sounds from penetrating their exterior surfaces. Though this can be a pleasantry for those who enjoy the sounds of nature, many people may find it incredibly difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. As such, take a bit of extra time to install roof blinds or dampening screens. These features will absorb most of the sound pollution from above so that it has less of an effect on your sleeping patterns.

Rusted metal, decaying bookbinding, or weathered wood? All is not lost. Take these tips on how to restore damaged antique items and save what you hold dear.

You may have furniture, books, or works of art that have been in your family for years and years—and you intend to keep it that way. Or perhaps you simply love to go antiquing, rummaging through shops and yard sales searching for the overlooked and the opportunity to add classic charm to your home. Either way, antique ownership means walking the tightrope of preservation and restoration. How much can you undo the damage these items have incurred over the years? How much should you restore such items at all? They’re questions whose answers can vary not only from person to person, but from case to case. In most instances, you’ll want to save items you have and make them look their best. To make your antiques last longer and look better, use these tips on how to restore damaged antique items, whether they’re made of wood, paper, or metal.

Refinish Furniture Only When Necessary

Discovering and upcycling an old nightstand or bookshelf by applying bold colors or decoupaging can be a creative endeavor and a great way to infuse a personal value into an item that had meant nothing to you before. But in the case of family heirlooms and fine antique furniture, it’s best not to reimagine the original work—or even put a new stain on it. If you believe this is a high-value antique, consider conserving the piece, rather than restoring or refinishing it. In conservation, an expert will protect against further wear and tear without trying to turn back the clock. But if you simply want an old piece of furniture to look its best and stay in the family for years to come, restoring or refinishing is the best approach.

Reinforce Failing Book Spines

Books are full of sentimental value. Whether you’ve found an early edition of a classic or you’ve had a rare book in the family for generations, you discover it’s become too delicate for its own good—pages are drying and yellowing, and the spine can barely hold the pages anymore. While you can’t stop the passage of time and the yellowing of paper, you can take some steps to strengthen the structural integrity of your superannuated book. Adhesives, binding tape, and a keen eye for damage are integral to repairing and fortifying aged books so they can continue to last.

Rid Rust with Household Supplies

Unsightly rust can ruin antique metal goods, but much of this damage is reversible without the use of heavy chemicals. Instead, simple household cleaning supplies can provide simple, environmentally friendly alternatives that will get your metal looking, if not good as new, as good as possible given the circumstances. White vinegar and a scrub pad will remove most accumulated rust, and a paste of lime juice and table salt will abrade any residual rust, leaving you with a clean surface to clear-coat and protect. For especially dire rust, a citric acid bath using the same citric acid you would use for pickling and canning can dramatically restore even the most oxidized iron. Any tips on how to restore damaged antique items that keep caustic solvents out of the home should certainly be welcome.

There are many different ways to make your home appear more luxurious that will improve your overall comfort, all without breaking the bank in the process.

There are many people in our society that look at the lives of celebrities and are envious that they spend their days in the lap of luxury while they toil away at their 9-to-5 job. But it doesn’t take an unlimited bank account to enjoy some of the finer things in life. Taking the time to make some minor adjustments around the home can improve your mental health and help you enjoy the many things you do have in your life. Here are five inexpensive ways to make your home more luxurious.

Keep it Clean

A basic step for many, keeping your house clean and clutter-free is an ideal first step for making your house look luxurious. Investing in a high-quality vacuum cleaner and cleaning supplies will have a huge impact on the look of your home.

This is also important from a decorating perspective. You want accessories that represent your style, but you don’t want them to overwhelm the room and cause it to feel tiny or cramped. A minimalist approach to decoration will create more space and make your home look much classier than before.

Improved Lighting

Lighting can make all the difference in a room’s appearance. Adding additional lighting will help remove the shadows that make rooms appear smaller. Lighting also offers the benefit of making a room more inviting. Adding lighting under the kitchen cabinets and in dark hallways will add a nice touch of elegance to your home.

Mirror, Mirror

While it may take a titanic effort on your part to avoid looking into them all day, adding a mirror is another inexpensive way to make your home more luxurious. Mirrors around the home make great decorations because they perform their obvious function of reflecting the appearance of the user while also reflecting more light into the room. They are also great because they create the illusion of more space in the room in much the same way that additional lighting eliminates shadows. 

Cabinet Hardware

Lighting isn’t the only thing that you can do to your cabinets to add a touch of glamor to your home. The knobs, pulls, and hinges on kitchen cabinetry are all very easy to replace. Mix and match the myriad of different colors and styles to find what suits your tastes. Because of how easy it is to change them, updating your cabinet hardware to reflect modern styles can be a much more appealing option than fully replacing them each time design trends change.

Benefits of Fabrics

There are many inexpensive things that you can do around your home with various fabrics that will add a hint of luxury. High-quality towels will make the drying process after a bath or shower much more enjoyable. Window trappings will make controlling the lighting of each room much easier. Finally, rugs will make your rooms with hardwood flooring more inviting and cozy for you and your guests. This can also make walking around your home without socks a much more enjoyable experience.

The bathroom is arguably one of the most overlooked yet heavily used rooms in the house. We tend to avoid anything but quick, necessary trips in there. Yet statistics indicate that throughout our lives, we’ll spend upwards of 1.5 years in the bathroom.

Given this mildly concerning fact, it isn’t all that surprising that during the many days spent at home during the Covid-19 pandemic many people are turning to the idea of remodeling their bathrooms. Gone are the days of the large, farmhouse bathroom with lots of shelving to store things though, new trends are taking over.

In today’s modern bathroom, sleek, clean, and minimal are all the rage. Energy efficiency is a bonus that isn’t just trendy but can actually save you quite a bit of money in the long run. But before you dive into a full bathroom remodel, here are some ideas to help make it the modern bathroom of your dreams.

Freestanding black bathtub, stylish minimalist black and white loft style bathroom. Bath, washstand

A Minimal Lifestyle

Minimalistic and clean are the two terms that describe the style of the bathroom in the homes of any modern trendsetter. But though the idea sounds great, it can be a lot more difficult to design a modern minimalistic bathroom than you might think. For instance, where can you hide all of your towels and extra bathroom supplies?

With the right decorations and design features, anyone can manage this type of bathroom style. Some simple yet classy tips include things such as:

• Adding plants in stylish pots that match the overall theme of the room
• Consider putting in recessed cubbies that eliminate cupboards
• Create a bright room with a lot of natural lighting from skylights
• If natural light isn’t an option use trendy, simplistic light fixtures
• Use bold shapes and textures to create depth
• Capitalize on the open shower idea and avoid curtains
• Upgrade the toilet
• Install a deep sink
• Use simple white, greys, or blacks with the occasional pop of color

Not only do these bathroom ideas scream hip and stylish, but when we envision them we also can’t help but think of them as clean. Keeping bathrooms clean isn’t always easy, of course, but there are plenty of things you can do to help achieve that goal. Doing small things such as installing modern towel bars can make a huge difference.

Increasing Efficiency

minimalist bathroom

Beyond modern bathroom styles, the next big thing that many people are hoping to add to their bathroom remodel is greater efficiency. For better or worse, older bathrooms can be quite inefficient, making it relatively easy to upgrade and see a noticeable difference in your energy and water bills. Things such as cleaning and replacing filters in the room are simple and can improve cleanliness, increase energy efficiency, and air quality.

Water efficiency is one of the big ones in the bathroom — in the U.S. the average person uses approximately 60 gallons of water per day. Most of this water use comes from doing things in the bathroom such as flushing the toilet or taking a shower. Small changes such as fixing leaking faucets, taking slightly shorter showers, or turning off the water while brushing your teeth can add up pretty quickly into big water savings.

Beyond water and filters, there are plenty of other things that can be done to save energy in your home. In the bathroom and other rooms in the house, these can be small things such as replacing light bulbs with LEDs, using natural lighting, and turning off the lights when you leave the room. But you can also do much larger things such as installing a low-flow toilet, change the showerhead to a more efficient one, or improve the insulation and windows in the room.

What’s Ahead

Glass shower in elegant bathroom

The next year is sure to continue to bring several difficulties and opportunities for us. COVID-19 has shown no signs of going away, which means that many of us are going to be spending a lot more time in our homes, especially as the weather turns. But it also means that there is that more motivation to design and install the bathroom of your dreams.

In 2021, we can expect that home trends will continue to lean in a more minimalistic direction. After all, working from home begs for the removal of clutter and a more clean and organized working environment. Additionally, bathroom trends are likely to lean towards a more natural look, incorporating things like bamboo and house plants which add a touch of color.

As we move into the new year, we have many opportunities to work towards a bathroom we really want to spend a year and a half of our lives in. Incorporating simplistic, clean, and energy-efficient designs can help reduce clutter and give your home a sleeker feel while also saving you money. As you dive into your next big project, remember, you’ve got this!

This post was authored by Sam Bowman

Moving into your first apartment is a huge milestone for anyone. But for millennials in particular, who are dealing with some of the highest housing prices of a generation, moving out is a real cause for celebration. Finally flying the nest and becoming fully independent can be both exciting and terrifying, and when you close the door behind you in an empty apartment, it can really hit home, no pun intended. Getting the apartment is only the first step in the long process of making your house a home. Many people are bursting with excitement to put their mark on their own place, but it’s important to have a plan of action. To help you be as prepared as possible, here are five crucial things for millennials to know when they are designing their first apartment.

Live in your apartment for a while

I received my undergraduate degree in Communication Design from Skidmore College in New York. One of my favorite things about our campus was the way the paths in our quad were created. After the campus was built, the grassy area was left alone with no paths to walk on. Over time, the walking patterns of students and faculty were tracked, and paths were later put in based on the natural way that the users walked. In a similar way, instead of expecting you and your guests to conform to a space that you have created, you can adapt a space to conform to you. Your home should feel comfortable and natural to live in. Just because your couch looks great in the middle of the living room, doesn’t mean it won’t be a pain to maneuver past every time you want to get to the kitchen. It may be the most exciting part, but don’t rush the furnishing process. 

Go for vertical

Your first apartment may be smaller than the family home you grew up in, so right away you need to take advantage of all the space you’re given to reduce clutter. By working vertically, you utilize the highest highs and lowest lows – from wooden cabinets to drawers under your bed. Your first apartment should be about having all your stuff in once place, without feeling like you have too much of it. A decluttered living space means a decluttered mind, and the importance of having a space that you can easily tidy before work or when having guests over, can’t be underestimated.

Add personal touches, whether you think you need them or not

Often when people move into their first apartment, they convince themselves they don’t need the extra touches that characterized their childhood home. But being at home more than ever right now, our immediate environment affects us hugely. Family photos, heirlooms, and even old upcycled furniture can give you a feeling of familiarity in your brand new space, and ultimately adds the most character to your otherwise blank canvas. Targeting your other senses by adding candles, diffusers or potpourri, can set the right tone, create a relaxing ambience and alter your mood. It’s the perfect way to get you feeling cozy in an unfamiliar setting.

Include things that have meaning to you

If you’re living in an apartment that isn’t yours, you will be limited with just how much you can put your own personal touch on it. You can’t paint the walls or change the wallpaper, so the only way you can really warm it up is by accessorizing with art. Whether you’re living on your own or with your significant other, it’s exciting to build your art collection where each individual piece has meaning to you. Each piece will be forever yours and build more meaning the longer you have it. As a millennial myself, I move apartments pretty much every one or two years – we don’t stick around in the same space for that long. So it becomes all about the stuff that is your identity, not so much the room itself, but what fills the room. Remember that your furniture will change, but your art and how you felt in that moment will last, almost like artifacts from a moment in time.

Fill your home with conversation pieces

The biggest mistake you can make is buying coffee table books, art or vases just to check that box that you have “decorated”. Each and every piece that you buy should bring you joy, make you proud of the home you’ve built, and serve as a conversation starter when guests are around. Your art and decorative pieces, much like your home itself, should be a reflection of yourself in actuality and on an aspirational level. In a beautiful way, your art can reflect who you are now, who you have been, or who you would like to become.

Elyssa Dorf is the founder and creative director of Cheery Designs. She has an undergraduate degree in Communications Design from Skidmore College and a graduate degree in Design Management from Pratt Institute.

Taking a vacation should be more exciting when you have your furry friends to keep you company.

To make your vacations more interesting, you could organize fun activities to do with your pets. Besides that, here are more tips to make traveling with your dog a fun and memorable experience.

1.   Consult Your Vet

Going to the vet’s office before a trip sets the tone for the whole experience. Your dog could probably have some underlying health issues that your vet may detect early. Vaccines are vital, especially if you plan on leaving for another state or country.

Besides, this move complies with the laws and regulations that revolve around the health sector. Here are general reasons why it’s essential to see a vet before your vacation:

• Overall wellness of your dog is a requirement for both of you to enjoy your vacation.
• Your vet can help place a microchip on your pet – When going somewhere new, it’s easy to lose your pet out on the streets or even the beach. A microchip will help identify your pet, especially when you want it to take a break from wearing a leash all the time.
• It’s your chance to get more medication for your dog if they are on any – Your dog’s vet will renew their current medicines if the old one is expired.
• Talk to your vet about any means of sedation that they may have – It’s good to be safe, especially when your dog has never been on a plane before. Have some sedatives prescribed by your dog’s vet just in case of anything.

2.   Pack Sufficient Water And Food

Dogs tend to become restless when they become hungry or thirsty. Some of them will even go as far as causing a scene and leaving you feeling embarrassed. Avoid buying from outside since dogs are creatures that love sticking to habit.

They will sense immediately you switch their snacks with some other brand. Worse still, they may decline some water when it’s not from your refrigerator. Set some time aside and do all the packing the night before the trip.

Your dog’s feeding dishes are also essential, as they’ll give it a sense of familiarity even in unfamiliar settings. Pack sufficient food since you’ll probably be unsure how long it’ll take before you get to your destination.

3.   Shop For Dog Crates

Dogs are not guaranteed to stay in the same spot during a journey. For this and other reasons, shop for a dog carrier that will contain them throughout the trip. These features should guide you when shopping for one.

• Spacious – Avoid squeezing your dog inside a tiny carrier and making your dog feel like it’s headed for the dog pound. A spacious dog carrier gives it the freedom to move around and remain in its safety and comfort at the same time.
• Durable – Since you’ll be traveling so often with your dog, you might want to settle for a dog carrier that’s of high quality and durable.
• Easy storage: Find a carrier that will be easier to store when not in use. What’s more, it’ll give you an easy time when you have to pack it among your other belongings.
• Comfortable: Crates are not usually the warmest and comfortable when you first buy them. The good news is that you can spread some blankets, dog clothes and throw in a few pillows for your dog to nap or relax as you travel.

4.   Potty Train Your Dog

Nature has to take its course, and it shouldn’t take you by surprise. Dogs are efficient creatures that don’t take too long before learning something from what you train them.

Potty training should be one of the most fundamental skills that they shouldn’t do without. Begin the training a month or two before your vacation and see how it goes. Monitor its meals and snacks to know how its bathroom schedule will be like if you were to travel.

Take them on road trips first before traveling by plane with them. During these trips, make stops and allow your dog to stretch, walk, and even relieve themselves. Carry everyday items such as toys and other colorful items that will make their training fun and worthwhile.

5.   Learn The Rules Before Traveling By Air

If it’s your first time traveling with your dog by plane, take your time and familiarize yourself with the rules first. To be more specific, read through the rules of the airlines you plan to board.

Some airlines may not even allow passengers to board the plane with pets. Visit the website of your preferred airline and get credible information firsthand. Better yet, call them up and ask a few questions to get things straight.

That’s not all. Get clarification regarding the fees as some airlines charge fees when pets are on board. To be on the safe side, book a cabin for your pet directly to avoid inconvenience.

6.   Check On Accommodation

Before traveling with your dog, check on the logistics. The accommodation should be at the top of your list. Once you get off the train, plane, or even car, you’ll both be so exhausted that you’ll need a warm and comfortable place to sleep.

Get to know whether pets can be accommodated wherever you’re going. If not, make arrangements by looking out for vacant spots close by before you travel. Be financially prepared for the same to avoid sleeping out in the cold with your dog.

7.   No Food Before Travel

Try to limit the amount of food and water you give to your dog as much as possible. Feed it about 2 hours before you hit the road. A heavy meal or snack before traveling could bring about the discomfort that will ruin your trip.

Besides, the food will be properly digested by the time you leave the house, and your dog will most likely take a nap throughout travel.

8.   Know Your Dog In And Out

Knowing your dog’s personality is the best way to wrap up your travel plans with your dog. For instance, if your dog gets anxious when it gets on the plane, try another option such as a train.

Know how your dog’s tummy reacts to meals at certain times of the day. Follow these same rules to avoid getting your dog worked up while on the road.

Final Thoughts

Bringing your dog along when traveling is a wonderful idea. By following these tips to the letter, you’re sure to have a blast throughout your traveling adventure!

This blog post was authored by Rebecca Siggers

Designing a bathroom is an exciting opportunity to take ownership over a space in your home that’s usually reserved for functionality and getting creative in your bathroom can give you a beautiful room that’s practical and elegant. However, designing a bathroom is also a minefield, and it’s easy to slip up when you’re getting carried away with design features. For a foolproof bathroom, you need to avoid the pitfalls of bathroom design. Here are the 7 biggest mistakes you’ll want to avoid.

 1) Neglecting Storage Space

 When you start shopping around for bathroom goods, it’s easy to be attracted to clean lines and simplistic pieces, such as pedestal sinks which offer a slim, silhouetted look. However, design is one thing and function is something else entirely – if you’re not lucky enough to have room for an internal closet or vanity in your bathroom, that under-sink space is going to be vital. Choose a sink with built in storage for stashing away those mundane bathroom items.

2) Thinking That A Toilet Is Just A Toilet

 Technology is now expanding into every room in our houses and the bathroom is no exception. Toilet technology has come a long way and even standard toilets on the market can perform very differently. When purchasing a toilet it’s all about the flush – a WaterSense rated toilet will be exceptionally efficient, providing a clean flush with less than half of the water of its standardized counterpart.

3) Lighting Matters

 “For most people, the bathroom is where they spend a lot of time looking in the mirror,” says Darlene Huff, a designer at 1Day2Write and NextCoursework. “This is where we build our best representation of ourselves, and whether that’s shaving, hairstyling or doing make up, having good lighting in your bathroom can make a huge difference to how you feel about yourself.” Whilst ceiling lighting is important for the overall look of the room, it’s not so flattering – additional lighting above and to the side of your mirror will give you the best look.

4) Slippery Floors

 Bearing in mind that your bathroom floor is inevitably going to be getting wet, if you’re not careful this can quickly turn into a serious hazard. Certain surfaces become especially slick when people climbing out of the bath or stepping out of the shower make a splash. Choosing matte or sand-glazed finishes for your bathroom tiles can give your floor some stick, but if you’re desperate for a smooth tile you can choose smaller tiles broken up by more grouting – this gives the floor some additional texture for those wet feet.

5) Choosing Pricey Materials

The addition of encaustic or cement tiles can add a rustic and traditional feel to any bathroom and many find this an appealing idea. Contemporary bathroom trends are incorporating these materials more than ever, but there’s a reason that porcelain has stood the test of time in bathroom design. Cement and encaustic, as well as carrying a heftier price tag, are also softer materials more susceptible to wear. Porcelain is practically invincible and nowadays manufacturers are imitating other styles of tile effectively.

6) Switching Layouts

 When you’re designing a bathroom it’s natural to want to put a personal stamp on it, but many people take this a step too far, seeking to fundamentally rework the layout. “Before swapping your fixtures around you’ll need to think carefully about where the plumbing is – moving pipes quickly becomes expensive,” says Shane Scapers, a writer at Write My X and Britstudent. “If you’re desperate to switch things around, consult a plumber before making any firm decisions.”

 7) Damaging Resale Value

 If you think there’s a chance you might be moving on at some point, you may need to consider a more conservative design in your bathroom. Because bathroom fixtures and tiles are permanent features of a home – you don’t usually take them with you when you move – they’ll have a big impact on the resale value of your home. Stick to neutral colors such as white and grey across your bathroom design and when it comes to selling your home you’ll be flush with cash.

Wrapping Up

 Designing the perfect bathroom is about striking a balance between form and function. Avoid these pitfalls of bathroom design and you’ll have an elegant and practical new space in your home.

Aaron Wolff is a writer at Academic Brits and Dissertation Writing Service with a focus in areas such as home improvement and real estate. He grew up in the construction trade working for the family firm in Memphis, Tennessee before breaking out on his own. He also writes for Research Paper Help.

First impression is vital. Whether you are in a job interview or looking for a new home, the first impression will leave a great impact on you. The first look of a house from the outside is the curb appeal, which is crucial in real estate. If you are looking forward to selling your home and moving to another place, you need to enhance your curb appeal to attract more customers and get a better rate. Even if you have stunning interiors and your outdoor is not so attractive, it will throw your potential buyers an unwanted feel.

Row of traditional suburban homes with lush green front lawns in nice residential neighborhood –

Having an attractive and gorgeous curb appeal makes you stand out from your neighbors and is, most importantly, beneficial to bring more customers. Obviously, you would be getting all set with your interiors, furniture, and walls, but we suggest you have a considerable thought for your exterior too. Next, we will discuss some budget-friendly ideas you can adopt to augment the curb appeal of your residence.

1. Paint your main door

Front Door with laurel wreath

The front door is a welcoming sign for your potential buyers and gives a feel of expecting everything great inside too. The color of the main gate also refreshes your home and creates a pleasant view from a distance. You can choose some tried and tested colors like brown or black, or some bold tones of yellow or red.

2. Repair/replace your roofing

An alluring and neatly arranged roof gives a dynamic and novel appearance to your house. There is a misconception that roof repair or replacement is always an expensive job. You can get a renovation or reparation job done at affordable rates or even a completely new installation from roofers near you. Broken shingles or leaking roof can damage your home’s attraction. Getting it fixed is a great investment for future dealings, along with saving your home from internal damage.

3. Go Green

Colorful fall autumn Chrysanthemums lined up on front porch stoops along a sidewalk

Adding some potted plants and looking after your grass to look fresh and green can put a lively impression on customers and dealers. You can add some flower pots on either side of the walkway that gives your guests appealing and welcoming infatuation.

4. Illuminate your pathway

Cobblestone Brick Path

You can expect customers in the day but also at night. Don’t focus on a single lamp post or garage-mounted floodlight. A direct path to your front door adds comfort and offers security. Rather than ambushing the route runway-style, tuck solar-powered spotlights into garden beds and point them along the walkway.

5. Replace your mailbox

a traditional American mailbox on the side of a village road

When talking about curb appeal, even small objects matter and can portray a negative impression before even entering in. If your mailbox is rusty or is going to topple over, it is time to invest in a new one.

6. An in-depth cleanup

A neat and organized environment doubles the attraction of any area without a penny’s investment. Utilize your energy and give a thorough clean up to the outer area of your house and the front yard. Give a power wash to your exterior, sidewalk, and driveway. It will work wonders for your curb appeal.

Sometimes, our inner travel bug encourages us to make big decisions. Whether this means heading off a solo trip,  or moving country altogether, you have to ensure that you are prepared for whatever lies ahead. With that in mind, here are some questions you should ask yourself before a big move!

1: What am I leaving behind? 

Sometimes, we make a big decision such as moving because we are feeling upset or frustrated about our current situation. Therefore, you mustn’t take the decision lightly. Make sure you are moving for the right decisions and not the wrong ones.

2: Do I have everything I need? 

Moving permanently to a new country is much more difficult than heading on a holiday. For example, you’ll probably need to take more than one suitcase along with you. However, you will also need to ensure you have the right to live and work in that country, by obtaining a visa. There are numerous different kinds of visas, from an artist’s visa to a partner visa. Do you research online, or request the help of an immigration lawyer, to find out which visa is best suited to your needs. You should do this in advance of moving, ensuring that you have everything you need on hand. 

3: What opportunities will I have in my new home?

You’ve heard the saying, ‘the grass is always greener on the other side’, millions of times before. However, it does ring true. For example, if you’re bored with where you are currently living, the idea of moving somewhere new may seem overly exciting. However, you need to ensure that you make the right decision on where you move. For example, moving somewhere that promises warm weather because you enjoy sunbathing may seem like a good idea, but upon arrival, you may realize that it isn’t the right place for you, and opportunities are limited. 

As a result, you should thoroughly research your new home before making a decision. Consider the following: 

• Job opportunities 
• Living costs
• Nearby entertainment facilities 
• Local culture
• Lifestyle 

4: Can I afford it? 

Moving home is always going to be expensive, especially if you are moving to a new country, where you also have to consider additional costs for your visa and healthcare. As a result, you need to ensure you have plenty of money on hand to support you, especially as it may take you a short while to find a new job. Save up when you can, and decide upon a budget. Then, do whatever you need to do to stick to this budget. When creating a budget, consider the following factors: 

• Visa/healthcare costs. The exact price of these will vary depending upon where you are moving, but the money can pile up quickly, so make sure they are the first thing you factor into your budget. 
• Moving costs. Not only does this mean how much will it cost you to travel to your new destination, but also the price of transporting your furniture and belongings.
• Rental costs/mortgage payments
• Renovation costs, whether you are remodeling your home or simply redecorating your kitchen, you need to plan for exactly how much you can spend. 

For most people, stairs are meant to be practical, allowing people to go upstairs and come downstairs easily. However, that is not all stairs are for, as they can also be an important aesthetic piece that can make or break how aesthetically pleasing the whole home is. Designing your staircase can be a challenging undertaking, especially considering how many design and material considerations you have to make before you settle on stairs you will love for years to come. To help make things easy, we have put together 5 things you should consider when deciding on your home’s staircase design.

Custom staircase designed by Orlando Custom Homebuilder Jorge Ulibarri, www.cornerstonecustomconstruction.com

Budget

Your budget will vary widely depending on the design, material and contractor you choose. You also need to factor in how long it will take to get the project completed because most contractors will factor this in too. To make the best use of your budget, shop around for contractors who will work within your budget and have the project completed on time.

Local Regulations

Before you start working on the design, it is important to check if there are any local regulations that you need to adhere to as you add the new stairs. Some regulations you need to think about include the depth of the stairs (tread or ‘going’) as well as the height of each step (the rise).

Location and Size

The location of your stairs will largely be dictated by safety and lighting. The stairs should exit at or near the door so that everyone can get out safely in case of a fire. Such a design also allows firefighters to get their equipment upstairs easily if that is where the fire is.

Stairs can lose their appeal if they are not well lit. This is a problem, especially where the stairs are located centrally or around a corner. A simple way of rectifying this is using well-placed LED lights.

The stair’s location will affect their size, so it should be thought about carefully. For example, grand staircases will have a small rise and a large going. However, such a design would not be feasible for most properties so for smaller buildings, stairs with a higher gradient might be installed instead.

Design, Style and Layout

Custom staircase designed by Orlando Custom Homebuilder Jorge Ulibarri, www.cornerstonecustomconstruction.com

For stairs layouts, you get to choose between three main layouts. These include turned spiral and straight layouts. The layout you choose will depend on the overall style of the property as well as the original designer’s tastes. Although straight stairs are the simplest and cheapest to add to a home, they may not be practical in all situations.

For turned layouts, the flight of stairs is split into two sections with the second section turned 90-degrees from the first section. A spiral staircase can be considered an alternative to a turned staircase and comes in handy where space is limited. Although they look spectacular, they make it difficult to take items such as pieces of furniture upstairs and can be costly to have installed.

Lately, consider your balustrade’s design. Although a balustrade is often added for safety reasons, that does not mean that it cannot be added for aesthetic reasons. There is an unlimited number of designs you can choose for your balustrade. If you have an idea but do not know how to design it, you can work with a designer to bring the exact design you have in mind to life.

Remember that you will need the balustrade installed correctly for safety reasons. So, talk to a specialist who provides design, manufacture and installation services as a package. Majestic Stairs comes highly recommended if you are in Perth because they are designers, manufacturers and installers of custom-designed balustrades and stairs. Majestic Stairs has decades of experience installing high-quality timber and metal stairs with balustrades in a variety of settings.

Materials

Custom staircase designed by Orlando Custom Homebuilder Jorge Ulibarri, www.cornerstonecustomconstruction.com

The type of material you use will influence your stair’s design as well as its cost. Although each material has its pros and cons, there are no wrong answers here as you should go with what works best for you and your home’s design.

Wood is a flexible option for those looking to keep costs as low as possible. Wood is easy to work with, with the vast availability of different types of timber allowing you to find one that fits your use case.

Metal staircases might be costlier than wooden stairs, but they offer individuality and functionality while being relatively low maintenance. All they need is varnishing, painting and sealing.

Stone and concrete stairs are not common in residential property, but they can be considered for the stairs leading to the house due to their durability. They are quite expensive although property owners can consider stone panels.

Glass and acrylic add a bit of modernism to a property and allow a lot of light to flow into a property. A cheaper alternative is having wooden stairs with acrylic or glass balustrades.

If you are building a new house or overhauling an older one, it is important to think about the stairs that the property will end up with. While there are a lot of factors to consider, doing so should make things easier for you.

The Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautifully diverse regions in America. From cities to coastlines to natural landmarks, here are the must-see places.

The Pacific Northwest is a region expanding from parts of Idaho to Oregon and into Washington. This area of the U.S. is known for its distinct beauty and diverse offerings. From cool cities and foggy beaches to the woods of the mountains and national parks, there’s bound to be a place that will fill you with awe and wonder. If you’re planning a trip to this region and are wondering where to go, take a look at these must-see places in the Pacific Northwestto get you started.

Washington: Mount St. Helens and Pike Place Market

While the woods of Washington State are gorgeous, many of the unique places to see here revolve around its geological features. The cascade range of Washington has five active volcanos: Mount Baker, Glacier Peak, Mount Adams, Mount Rainer, and Mount St. Helens. You’ve probably heard of the last one, which is what makes it a must-see location. This famous volcano erupted in 1980. What Mount St. Helen lacks in height, it makes up for in history. A visit to this mountain will showcase the beauty and devastation that lies in the natural world.

If you’re looking for a different kind of adventure, the largest city in Washington—and the whole Pacific Northwest region, for the matter—is Seattle. Seattle is known for its rainy weather, but it’s truly a vibrant city of culture and art. Seattle also boasts the site of the first Starbucks in the world. Coffeeshop culture exists today because of these roots. You don’t even have to be a coffee aficionado to enjoy a visit to Pike Place Market. After doing some shopping at the market, pick up your favorite café drink, and take it down to the Seattle waterfront to enjoy.

Oregon: Cannon Beach

One of the must-see places in the Pacific Northwest is just northwest of the city of Portland—a place called Cannon Beach. This beach is a treasured and well-known attraction because of the iconic Haystack Rock, an immense and breathtaking natural geographical occurrence. This 235-foot basalt rock, formed many millions of years ago from lava flows, is a recognizable landmark within the state and a great place to take Instagram-worthy photos. When the tides go out, the beach is also a wonderful spot to look at tidepools and other marine life.

Idaho: Shoshone Falls and Hells Canyon

The Snake River is a major river that begins in Wyoming and stretches west into Idaho before heading north along the border between Idaho and Oregon. Among the southern part of the river is the must-see location of Shoshone Falls. Shoshone Falls has been called the Niagara Falls of the west. These falls are a majestic sight to see, as they are even taller than their more-famous counterpart.

If you head north along the river, you’ll eventually find Hells Canyon. Hells Canyon is the deepest canyon in the country—even deeper than the Grand Canyon. Outdoor activities are bountiful here for adventure seekers. Whether you choose to explore, hike, fish, or take a boat tour to look at the scenery, the reasons to visit Hells Canyon are clear. It’s easy to fall in love with such a charming and diverse natural place in the Pacific Northwest.

Do you ever think about the value of your home? You should. While a house is most certainly a home, it’s also an investment. Indeed, it’s also one of the most important investments that you’ll likely ever make in your life. So, you do need to think about the best ways to preserve and even increase the value of the property. There are a few issues with your home that will absolutely obliterate your home value. Let’s explore some of these issues. 

Roof Damage

A lot of home sellers often underestimate the importance of the condition of the roof and that’s understandable. However, if you watch a buyer, you will notice that their gaze does turn up towards the roof before they step through your front door. They know the issues that can occur if the roof isn’t in good shape. So, how can you fix a problem like this? Well, you should speak to a roof repair company to determine the extent of the issue. They can then provide you with the best advice and hopefully offer you the right solution. 

Out Of Date

Another common misconception about homebuyers is that they are only interested in the four walls. In other words, they don’t care about the style or design of the home interior. Again, this isn’t the case. While the style doesn’t impact the actual value of the property and the land, it can cause issues with the perceived value. The more buyers that notice a problem here, the more likely it is that this begins to impact the real value. There are numerous ways to correct a problem here. Ideally, you should be making small changes to the property over time. Little by little you can modernise the property and ensure that it’s exactly what new buyers are searching for. 

Trouble With Cleanliness

Similarly, you need to make sure that you are keeping the home clean and well maintained. Even if buyers are investing in a second-hand home, they definitely don’t want a property that has been through a massive level of wear and tear. That’s why before you put your property on the market, you should make sure that you are giving it a deep clean. While this is always going to add to the costs of selling your property, it will definitely be worth it in the end. You can make your home feel and look brand new to a buyer which is exactly what they want to see. 

You can hire a professional cleaner to fix your home. Or, you can complete the work yourself, it’s entirely your choice. 

We hope this helps you understand some of the key issues that are going to seriously damage your property value and impact what you can sell your home for on the market. The good news is that it’s not too late to fix these problems. If you do, you will be able to claim the profits that you want and that you deserve when it’s time to sell your home. 

Buying a beautiful piece of art will make great wall decor, but there are many other ways to bring your home to life in unique, personal, and stunning ways.

Finding beautiful wall décor for your humble abode isn’t a difficult task, whether it’s a piece of artwork you buy online, photos you take with the family, or even a stunning mirror. That said, it can be hard to find décor that’s truly unique and personal enough to wow guests. These three unique wall décor ideas for your home will help you transform any wall into a must-see attraction.

Break out the plates

It’s common practice for homeowners to obtain some fine china and place it away in a cabinet, only taking it out during special occasions. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with that, those plates can transform a blank wall into a thing of beauty. Just like a creative piece of artwork can boast a colorful floral pattern or a specific image of a beautiful place or animal, so can a plate. It might sound odd that a plate can be so visually interesting, but if you shop around to some specialty providers, you’ll find an eclectic sea of entrancing tableware.

There are multiple ways to go about hanging plates on the wall. There are plate hangers on the market that you can sit the dish inside with ease and stability. On the other hand, you can try some adhesive hangers that ensure the only things you and your guests will see are the plates and not the material you’re using to keep them on the wall.

Put up some Juju hats

When you hear the term “Juju hats,” it might sound like a type of attire, and they are, but they can also make great pieces of wall décor. You’ll also hear this item commonly referred to as “Cameroonian Juju hats” or “Tyn.” Thanks to both their stylish appearance and their cultural significance, there are a variety of ways homeowners can use Juju hats to bring a wall to life.

Not only do they look beautiful, but they also give you the chance to explain the cultural significance to guests when they stop by, making it more than just a simple wall decoration. Whether you want a Juju hat that sports a shade of solid cream, vibrant pink, or a bevy of colors and patterns, you can find one that’ll truly make your wall pop.

Decorate the wall with your own art

Out of all three unique wall décor ideas for your home, this one might be the most personal, simply because you get to design it yourself. If you’re an artist, why not forgo a normal canvas or frame and transform a wall, or multiple walls in the house, into a unique piece of artwork? This can be an extravagant piece of abstract art, an incredible interpretation of your favorite vacation spot, a moving illustration of a childhood memory, or anything else your heart desires.

If you’re not an artist, that doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun with this idea. In fact, if you live with your whole family, gather everyone together, and transform the wall using a group of illustrations that stem from everyone’s imagination. It might not win any art awards, but it’ll be a fun display of your family’s creativity.

Ensuring features in your home are unified brings order, but to make its style more interesting, you should introduce some contrast with these techniques.

Having solidarity between the various individual components of your home’s style is necessary to prevent it from looking like a jumbled mess. However, utilizing contrasting elements can make your living spaces more interesting when applied with measured consideration. But how can you tame disparities enough to use them fruitfully without losing what makes them captivating in the first place? With the high-contrast decorating techniques we expound upon here, you’ll be able to find out.

Juxtapose Light and Dark Colors

A good place to start is with color. Since color is such a prominent feature of furniture and other home décor pieces, it’s not too difficult to incorporate contrast with it. Black and white make a reliable pairing to fall back on if you’re not sure what colors to use. Their opposing natures can make items, or the features within items, pop. You can, for instance, set a black chair next to a white table or a black bedcover over a white bedsheet. In both instances, each piece will stand out in stark relief because of the other. Beyond this, though, you could create contrast with light and dark wood, navy and cream colors, or even a dark shade and light tint of the same hue. Just stay within an established color scheme as you decide what to include.

Blend Opposingly Textured Materials

Blending opposingly textured materials is another high-contrast decorating technique you can use. This is somewhat more subtle than contrasting color, but can still produce a highly pleasing effect. Your aim here is to position soft and hard objects and/or smooth and textured objects next to one another. By doing so, the pieces will come together to make a stimulating, cohesive whole. An easy way to do this would be to place a smooth leather or fabric sofa on a downy high-pile rug. Setting down potted plants on tables with minimal features could also introduce organic texture to their artificially made, simple surfaces. Likewise, a roughly hewn stone fireplace can work well with shiny metallic fixtures nearby.

Combine Simplicity and Complexity

Simplicity and complexity can encompass a broad range of features, but when it comes to décor, they mostly relate to patterns and other details such as images and carvings. You can create a contrast between simple, plain pieces and more elaborate ones. In fact, this is often necessary to prevent patterns from making a room look overly chaotic. An easy application of these techniques to it put patterned throw pillows on a sofa that has only one color. You might alternatively use traditionally intricate chairs with floral upholstery and curved forms to bring another dimension to an overall minimalistic and austere space. Additionally, painting or using wallpaper on a singular accent wall can pleasantly distinguish it from the others nearby. When thinking about how you combine simplicity and complexity, have the barer elements make up the majority of the space. This will ensure those bolder items you’ve included will stand out all the more, highlighted by the plainness surrounding them.

Going away on a trip can be a very exciting occasion, but if you don’t feel prepared, you’re probably going to panic. You don’t want to have to fill up your limited bag space with grooming products, do you? You surely don’t want to spend a portion of your trip holed up in the bathroom shaving, applying makeup, or doing other things you feel you need to do to feel good about yourself? 

If you want to look and feel good on your next trip but absolutely don’t want to squander a good portion of the tip in the bathroom, this guide can help you. Take a look and you’ll get an idea of what to do for your next trip:

Avoid False Tan

Applying false tan can be a great idea if you’re going somewhere cool where you won’t be hopping into the sea or pool. However, tan will come off when it comes into contact with chlorine. Not in a nice and neat way either, but all over your body in scaly patches. This, paired with the fact that you’re going to be sweating in a hot country, is a disaster for false tan. A gradual tan can be slightly more forgiving, and if you take it with you then you may be able to apply it again in the evening after a shower. If you get a very subtle one that includes moisturizer, you should manage a nice glow without going OTT. Of course, if you tan easily it could be a good idea to take your SPF and just try to build a natural tan. You may be pale for the first few days, but as long as you take your SPF to protect your skin, you’ll be able to build a safe, glowing tan. 

Forget About Shaving

Having to shave every day or every other day while you’re away is no fun. Forget about shaving and look into affordable laser hair removal instead. You will need to do this with plenty of time to spare before you fly, as multiple sessions are required. However, once the hair is gone you will need infrequent maintenance treatments and love your smooth skin. It’ll save you a lot of time and potentially money in the long run. 

Practice Your Hair

It’s nice to have a big, bouncy blow-dry – but if you’re traveling to a hot place, it’s going to go frizzy and flat the second you step off the plane. Practice various hairstyles that can withstand the heat, such as french plaits, high ponytails, and messy buns. These are far better styles to have when you want to enjoy yourself without worrying about how you look. 

Get Gel Polish

Head to a nail tech, and rather than asking for false nails or a simple manicure, see if you can have gel polish. Gel polish enhances your natural nails, looks like normal polish, but lasts 2-3 weeks on average. This can depend on how good the person is who applies it, but it’s a revelation and just perfect for the holidays!