January, 2019 - SkirtingBoards.com®

Non-Working Fireplace Decorating Ideas That Make Beautiful Use Of The Hearth

January 17, 2019 by admin

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Have a fireplace that can no longer safely burn wood? You won’t be so bummed when you see all the cool things you can do with the spot. These non-working fireplace decorating ideas transform an ordinary hearth into a cool and creative focal point in your home.

Cover It With A Flatscreen TV

A flatscreen TV’s black screen mimics the hearth’s dark opening. And the best part is you can play crackling fireplace feeds on your TV. Image: Domino

Turn Your Non-Working Fireplace Into A Bookcase

Tile the back of your fireplace in a light, fun tile and add shelves to convert the unit into a bookcase. Image: Better Homes And Gardens

Artfully stack a collection of books inside your fireplace hearth. Image: Little Piece Of Me

Non-Working Fireplace Decorating Ideas Featuring Tile, Mirror And Wallpaper

Retile the back of your fireplace in a bold and graphic pattern to modernize your hearth. Image: Desire To Inspire

Add a mirror to the back of the fireplace and candles at the opening. When you light the candles, the mirror will reflect the warm glow. Image: Good Housekeeping

Fireplace hearths are dark and often dirty from years of burning wood. Freshen up the opening with mirrors or tile. Image: Brit + Co

Bold colors and an Asian wallpaper transform a non-working fireplace into a striking focal wall. Image: Elle Decor UK

A mirrored rear wall expands the space by reflecting light and offering a view other than brick. Image: Casa Vogue

A Chalkboard Non-Working Fireplace Hearth

This fireplace was closed off with a panel painted in chalkboard paint. Image: Brit + Co

Fill The Opening With Plants

Arrange a collection of indoor-friendly plants at varying heights, spilling out from inside your hearth. Image: Brit + Co

Turn Your Non-Working Fireplace Into A Mini Wine Cellar

Wall mounting a wine rack and arranging a small cocktail table near the hearth converts an old fireplace into a cool lounge. Image: SF Girl By Bay

Non-Working Fireplace Ideas Featuring Decorative Objects

A sealed fireplace was plastered and painted black. A framed print was placed in front of the hearth to lighten up the area. Image: Better Homes And Gardens

Fill your non-working fireplace with candles or seasonal objects like pumpkins, small Christmas trees and more. Image: Good Housekeeping

When grouping objects in your fireplace, paint the back wall in a contrasting color so the objects pop. To get this look, arrange your collection in odd numbers and in various sizes. Images: Elle Decor and Real Simple

Did these non-working fireplace decorating ideas inspire you to reform the space into something cool and different? Share your transformation with us!

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Here’s Everything You Need To Know About Creating A Hygge Home This Winter

January 16, 2019 by admin

Now that cooler temperatures are upon us, it’s the perfect time to embrace hygge design. Pronounced “hoo-gah,” the Danish word means “comfort” and who couldn’t use more of that? With that in mind, we’ve decided to bring you our best tips for creating a hygge aesthetic. Use them to keep your home feeling warm and cozy all winter long.

Build the room around a neutral color palette. Image: Intro

Start with neutral colors

Color is the first building block for any design. It helps to set the tone for the space and to bring the different design elements in your space together in a cohesive manner. Hygge spaces are no exception to this rule, which is why you should always start your hygge designs by relying mainly on a neutral color palette.

Since hygge is all about comfort, neutral tones give the eye plenty of places to rest. With that in mind, you’ll want to stick with softer neutrals, in particular. Work in plenty of soft grays, rich creams and icy blues. You’ll want to limit the use of higher contrast neutrals like black or dark brown, as these can be more visually taxing.

Hygge is all about creating comfort. Image: Rosanna Parker Interiors

Focus on comfort

An article in TIME explains the Danish concept as “an approach to living that embraces positivity and enjoyment of everyday experiences.” Practically, it’s about enjoying life’s simple pleasures, like the feeling of curling up under a blanket or slipping into bed after a long day.

From that perspective, creating a hygge home is all about infusing the space with a feeling of comfort. To do that, you want to ensure that your furniture is as plush as possible. Think big, comfy sofas and gloriously overstuffed chairs.

You also want to invest in plenty of textiles. Textiles like rugs, woven wall hangings, pillows and blankets will do a lot to bring warmth and, therefore, comfort into a room. Layer them one on top of the other to add some visual complexity into the space, but don’t get too caught up in making the layers look neat. Hygge is also about accepting imperfections as a part of life.

Add in plenty of soft lighting. Image: Louise de Miranda – 30’s Magazine

Include plenty of soft lighting

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: creating the right lighting scheme has a huge effect on the way a space feels. If you need proof, just think about how draining overhead, industrial lights can feel in an office setting. Alternatively, remember how peaceful and relaxing lighting some candles feels at the end of a long day. In this instance, we’re looking to set the latter mood.

To that end, make sure to bring plenty of soft lighting into the room. In this case, while every room does need some ambient lighting, it should almost be an afterthought to your other types of lighting. Here, you’ll focus on including some accent lighting like soft fairy lights or even candles

Avoid any unnecessary clutter. Image: June

Stick to the essentials

Keep in mind, what’s not included in these interiors is just as important as the pieces you select. A central principle of hygge is allowing yourself enough material pleasures to feel comfortable without feeling the need to go overboard. This is one occasion where less is more.

To do this effectively, your best bet is to start from scratch. Remove all the items from the space and, once you have a blank canvas, move them back in piece by piece. Think like a curator and decide individually whether each item adds specific value to the design. Whenever you’re unsure, feel free to leave that piece out.

We know that, for some, negative space can feel uncomfortable at first. If you’re one of these people, try not to give in to your initial impulses. Give yourself some time to adjust to the room’s new design. If, after a few days, the space still feels too empty, consider which parts of the design need work. Tweak those until you find your perfect balance.

To maintain a sense of comfort, especially in the winter, make sure your room temperature is an after thought. You can do this by setting your smart thermostat to work with your schedule. Also consider the use of other warming devices in your home such as a fireplace, electric blanket or oversized sweater. What is more comforting then curling up on the couch in front of the fireplace on a snowy winter evening? Happy Hygge!

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15 Gorgeous Interior Skyscapes for a Celestial Home

January 16, 2019 by admin

One of the prettiest and most artistic developments in home design has to be statement ceilings. These ceilings usually feature bold colors, geometric designs or other amazing visuals. And a classic way to make a bold statement with your ceiling is to have some sort of skyscape on it. Whether it’s puffy clouds or starry vistas, interior skyscapes are a wonderful way to get an artsy home. Plus, they create the illusion of opening up any space. But it doesn’t stop with ceilings. Skyscapes also work as wall art. Take a look below to find some inspiration for interior skyscapes.

Starry Night Ceilings

One of the most common ways to work with interior skyscapes is to create the illusion that your ceiling is opening right into a starry night. The illusion is often created by small pinpricks of LED lights in the ceiling mimicking stars. Other styles opt for a cleverly painted design.

Starry night skies work in any space, too. Many designs can be found in home theater spaces to give a feel of watching a movie at an old-school, outdoor drive-in theater. One unique design places a starry night over an indoor swimming pool to make it look like you’re taking a moonlit swim. Below, you can even see how the concept works in a bathroom.

Lighting systems can do an amazing job of mimicking nighttime stars. Image: Zeta Infografia

This nautical-themed bathroom shows how a nighttime sky on the ceiling can give the look of sailing out under the stars. Image: ECLIPSE Designs

Here’s another home theater that makes you feel like you’re watching a movie outside on a clear night. Image: Benson and Associates Interior Design

The lit galaxy on this ceiling would make it feel like you’re swimming under the stars. Image: Suzanne Hunt Architect

You can also create a conceptual star look in more traditional living spaces. Image: Sporadic Space

Daytime Sky Ceilings

Another option for interior skyscapes is to paint a daytime sky right on the ceiling. That will make it look like your space opens right to the heavens. It’s even a neat little hack to visually open up smaller spaces.

The bright azure of the blue sky adds some uplifting color to the space, along with the pristine white of the clouds. Blue and white tend to be a popular color choice for rooms, so you can also work those colors into the rest of the space easily. Take a look below for some inspiration on how to make an amazing interior skyscape using scenes of daytime skies.

Here’s an example of a realistic sky ceiling; you can see how it seems like you’re looking right up into the sky. Image: Interior Art

This design went for a more fanciful theme and added some cherubs. Image: Interior Art

Here you can fully see how a skyscape visually eliminates the ceiling for a more open appearance. Image: Nasrallah Architectural Group

This ceiling skyscape does a wonderful job of blending into the walls. Image: Amy Sklar Design

Here you can see how well a skyscape works in a child’s space. Even on the rainiest of days, kids can have the feeling of playing outside. Image: Ensoul

Wall Art Interior Skyscapes

Of course, you might be in a position where you can’t paint your ceiling, usually because of time, budget, logistical or renting constraints. Painting a ceiling is delicate and often messy work.

However, you can still work with interior skyscapes. By using wall art, you might create a more open feel in the space with minimal effort. All you have to do is mount a canvas to the wall. Other designs paint the walls themselves for an encompassing way to get the style. Read on to see easier ways of getting an uplifting interior skyscape right in your home.

Adding a skyscape to the walls of a reading, reflection and meditation space is an instant way to make the room feel more open and relaxed. Image: Art and Atmosphere

You can also go more traditional and use a wall painting that features a scene with a skyscape. Image: rlh Studio

This design uses a skyscape on a wall, which is then extended over the rest of the ceiling. Image: Fontana Painting

You can also go more conceptual with cloud-themed wall hangings. Image: Rikki Snyder

A large sky canvas is easy to hang and opens up any space. Image: Designer Premier

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Buying House Plans Online: Pros and Cons

January 16, 2019 by admin

No two homes are exactly alike because no two families are exactly alike. Still, buying house plans online can feel like a simple way to design a personalized home without the fuss. Sure, someone might have the same plan, but you make a house a home, right? Before you take the plunge and buy stock house plans from a website, make sure you have all of the facts. In some cases, it might actually be cheaper and easier to have custom plans drawn. Consider the pros and cons to decide if stock plans are right for you.

Stock plans can save you time. Image: Kurt Baum Architects

Stock Plan Pros

If you’re looking for house plans that are quick and easy, stock plans are a no-brainer. Here are some clear benefits you score by choosing plans from an online store.

Cost. Stock plans are typically much cheaper than custom plans. You’re not paying for consultations and meetings where an architect painstakingly creates your vision. You’re paying for the rights to use plans an architect has already created. Expect to pay anywhere from a couple hundred bucks to around a thousand for stock plans. When compared to the $2 per square foot cost of custom plans, buying house plans online is a steal of a deal.
Choices. Buying house plans online allows you to choose from thousands of different layouts, styles and exteriors. You won’t get to customize your master bathroom, but you can choose from tons of different options so you get something you really love. Websites selling house plans curate the best styles and plans. That means you get to narrow your search and choose from the best work of hundreds of different designers.
Time. When designing plans from scratch, you’re making a pretty substantial time commitment. Combing through options, meeting with your architect and fine-tuning your plans can take weeks. This can really slow down an already-tight building schedule. If you’re pressed for time, stock plans help you sail through the design process and head straight to your build.
Jumping Off. Even if you don’t use stock plans, searching online options and even purchasing plans can serve as a starting point for custom designs. If you’re overwhelmed by all the choices, going through online options and bringing a few of your favorites to your architect can help you create a starting point. From there, you can tweak and change until you get the right design.

Customizations can add extra costs. Image: J Taylor Designs

Stock Plan Cons

Stock plans can be a good fit for some, but they’re not right for every building situation. Make sure you can live with a few of the drawbacks of buying plans online.

Lot Specification. When you buy stock house plans, you don’t get to specify the size and shape of your lot. In some cases, it can be like buying jeans without trying them on first. They just might not fit. While you can usually filter plans based on size, there’s no guarantee that the plan will work on your specific lot. You’ll still need to bring the plan to a qualified designer to make sure it’s a good fit for your lot. Most cities also require a site plan in order to gain a building permit, which means you’ll have an additional cost in having one drawn.
Codes and Permits. When you work with an architect, you know that your home is being designed to meet city codes. An architect will also take safety, sustainability and environment into consideration when coming up with the right design. Stock plans, however, aren’t designed to meet specific codes. There’s a chance you’ll still need plans redesigned to obtain permits. Without a design that meets code, your plan is just a picture.
Customization Costs. Buying house plans online can be a cheaper option, but customizations can rack up a pretty penny. When calculating the price of your plans, remember to add on any extra cost for having an architect modify plans. Whether you’re making big changes to the layout or you’re having an architect check to make sure your plans are up to code, you’ll have additional costs. Add those to the price of your stock plans and you may find that starting from scratch is close in price – or even cheaper.

If you’re a total design junkie, you’ve already browsed online plans. But before you put your dream plans in your online cart, think about your long-term plans. Buying house plans online can help save time and money, but it also means giving up some of your custom dreams. If you’re dead set on a personalized plan, it might be better to work with a local architect. Still, whether you go stock or start from scratch, you’ll be able to come up with perfect plans for your future home.

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4 Fast, Fab and Temporary Flooring Ideas For Renters

January 15, 2019 by admin

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Do you hate your apartment floors? What if we told you there is temporary flooring available that can cover (or completely change) your rental floors easily and without any complaints from your landlord?

We’re not talking area rugs, although they’re not a bad solution. We’re talking full-on floors that look fabulous, are easy to install and are just as easy to remove when you move out. Check out these four fast and fab temporary flooring ideas:

1. Carpet Tiles

The new Hollin Hills mid-century modern inspired carpet tiles by Flor add vintage-chic to any room.

Carpet tiles are the ultimate instant flooring makeover solution. They’re recyclable, making them eco-friendly, fairly inexpensive and very easy to install. Worried they may not be durable? Carpet tiles are used in hospitals, airports and other high-traffic locations around the world.

Order them in boxes according to how many you may need, cut them easily and stick them together with little adhesive dots for a cool and unique wall-to-wall look. Order extra so you can replace damaged ones in the future. And challenge your creative side by mixing and matching patterns and colors.

Check these out:

2. Vinyl Sheet Flooring

Vinyl sheeting is a great temporary flooring solution in kitchens and bathrooms. Filigree vinyl sheet flooring by Mannington.

A quick and easy way to hide unsightly apartment floors is by rolling out a big sheet of vinyl flooring. You can use a removable adhesive or double-sided carpet tile to stick the flooring in place. Or simply anchor down the sheet with furniture. The best part of vinyl sheet flooring is that it’s waterproof and easy to wipe clean.

Check these out:

3. Interlocking Floor Tiles

When a soft, forgiving surface is preferred, foam interlocking tiles are a good choice. Foam Woodgrain Interlocking Floor Mats at Amazon.

Interlocking tiles have come a long way from the colorful children’s playroom styles. They’re lightweight, quick and easy to snap together and require no adhesives. They also offer some cushioning and soundproofing as a bonus.

Check these out:

4. Laminate Flooring

The Augustus Smokey Gray Oak Laminate Flooring at Wayfair has a contemporary feel but can also work well in more traditional or farmhouse-style spaces.

Laminate flooring is durable, authentic looking and easy to install as a floating floor. Look for click and lock laminate flooring as a temporary solution that doesn’t require nails or adhesives. For extra soundproofing, add a foam underlayment sheet underneath the laminate.

Check these out:

You can add any of these temporary flooring options to update your boring floor in nearly any room of your rental home or apartment. Be sure to measure carefully, order extra (just in case) and save your receipt to return any unused portion of the flooring.

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Beat The Winter Blues With These 8 Winter Lighting Ideas For A Brighter Home

January 15, 2019 by admin

The winter blues are real! They’re actually called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and, according to the Mayo Clinic, “Symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody.” Luckily, there’s a fix to SAD and it’s easy: light therapy.

Short winter days and bad weather tend to make your home feel much darker than normal. It’s important to adjust your lighting in the winter to replace the lack of natural sunshine. Here are eight winter lighting ideas that will brighten up your space (and your outlook):

1. Maximize Natural Daylight In Your Home

Frosted window panels block out passersby for privacy but allow in natural light. Image: Jeffers Design Group

Keep windows open to let as much light in as you can. Here are some ways you can optimize your home to reflect the most natural light possible:

If your view isn’t inspiring or you’re worried about privacy, use sheer window panels or install a DIY frosted window film.
Hang or rest a mirror on an empty wall facing the window to reflect light in the room.
Place furniture with surfaces that are reflective – like glass, mirror or metals – near windows.
If you own your home, add a skylight.

2. Create A Panel Of Light To Replicate A Sunny Window

winter lighting ideas brighten up a room

Backlight sheer curtain panels to create a glow that replicates a sunny day. Image: Kababie Arquitectos

If there’s no chance of daylight filtering in from your window or you don’t have a window in the room, hang a lightly colored sheer curtain. Place an LED floor can (that points lighting straight up) behind the sheer curtain to create a soft, diffused glow, similar to a sunny window.

Use an LED lightbulb for safety. LEDs don’t heat up like a traditional bulb so you don’t have to worry about your sheer curtain catching fire.

3. Watch Your Wall Color Choices

winter lighting ideas to brighten up a dark home

Compare the white wall to the pale yellow wall in this living room. The white looks dingy, while the pale yellow looks bright. Image: Brookfield Residential

One of the most common errors homeowners make to brighten up a room is painting it white. If your room is naturally dark, the white will end up looking dull and lifeless. Choose light colors with some pop to them instead, like pale blue, butter yellow or mint green.

4. Freshen Up Your Lampshades

White light and pendant shades do a better job of diffusing light in a room. Image: Monica Hibbs

Take inventory of your lamps, chandeliers and pendants. If your shades are dingy, yellow or outdated, replace them with fresh white ones. They’ll look crisper and diffuse brighter light better.

5. Use The Right Temperature Bulbs

Warmer temperature bulbs still lighten up a space in winter, but also feel cozier when it’s cold outside. Image: Perfect Integrations

The quality of light is one of the most important things to consider about lighting your room to avoid the winter blues. Fluorescent lighting is unattractive and the flickering of the tubes gives some people headaches.

While bulbs that are sold to replicate daylight colors seem like a good idea, they may feel too cool in the winter months. Remember, winter is about warm and cozy, so go with a warmer temperature bulb.

When shopping for LED bulbs, look for the Kelvin (K) units. The lower the K-value, the warmer the quality of light. 2700K is a nice, warm color option for most homes.

6. Make Dark Corners Work For You

winter lighting ideas and types of lighting

A corner lamp or pendant lights up the corner and surrounding wall and ceiling. Image: Decotick

Take advantage of an awkward corner by lighting it up. If you place a torch floor lamp in a corner, you can reflect the uplight onto the adjacent walls and bounce it off the ceiling.

7. Have A Variety Of Lighting Options In Each Room

This room is layered with different types of lighting to create a bright and airy feel year-round. Image: Facile Ristrutturare

You’ll want to have different lights in every room for different tasks or moods. You probably have an overhead light. Layer your existing lighting by adding:

A floor, table or reading lamp
A wall sconce or pendant light
Strip lighting
String lights

Each type of light serves a different function and creates a mood. You may not always want to switch the bright ceiling light on so it’s nice to have a table or floor lamp available. Table and floor lamps are easy to move around so you can change a room’s lighting plan as the season changes.

LED string lights come battery-powered, making them a great option for ambient lighting in areas where there’s no electrical outlet. Here are ideas for decorating with string lights.

8. Automate Your Lighting With Smart Home Timers

With the new smart home automation available, you can program your lights remotely. Image: My Renovation Magazine

Automate your lighting to welcome you home every day by using smart home lighting plugs and timers. You can program them to go off and on according to a schedule – or even operate them remotely from your smartphone.

Coming home to a nicely lit home is uplifting, especially after trudging through the cold, cruel world outside.

Focus on using these winter lighting ideas in the rooms where you spend the most time. Start by upgrading the lighting in your living room, kitchen and bedroom and see how you feel after you make the changes.

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Shipping Container Homes: Cargotecture Pros and Cons

January 15, 2019 by admin

Shipping container homes might seem like a New Age option, but purchasing a DIY home isn’t as rare as you might think. In fact, Sears sold entire home kits to would-be homeowners in the early 1900s. Minimalist dwellings of the DIY variety might have a different appeal today, but the idea is the same: thinking outside of traditional construction can result in more affordable housing.

Shipping containers can be stacked for more space. Image: Yerigan Construction

This is especially true when talking about shipping container homes, or “cargotecture.” When shipping containers are re-purposed as the floor, walls and ceiling of a home, it reduces building costs. Still, there are some factors to think about before setting out to make a shipping container into home sweet home.

All About Cargotecture

“Cargotecture” refers to the practice of reusing shipping cargo containers to create dwellings. Because they’re made from strong metal and aluminum, shipping containers can form a nearly indestructible home. And, since they’re plentiful and cheap to buy, shipping containers can keep housing costs low. Although the homes built are far from ornate, the containers can create the basis for a sleek, modern abode that keeps costs low and limits environmental impact.

Cargo homes can be surprisingly cozy. Image: Les Collections Dubreuil

Shipping Container Homes: The Good

Shipping containers simplify the building process. With four strong walls already in place, you’re essentially fast-tracked to the design stage of your home. Here are some of the other benefits of using shipping containers:

They’re mobile. Without a foundation, there’s nothing holding a shipping container home down. They’re meant to be portable, which means you can ship and move them as you want. While you may need special equipment to get from point A to point B, shipping containers keep you mobile.
They’re custom designed. Even though they may seem simple, you can customize shipping containers to create the perfect layout for your home. Some owners even stack and splice several containers together so they aren’t limited by the size and shape of the initial space. Consulting a designer familiar with shipping container homes can help you decide on the size and layout of your home,
They’re easy to find. Shipping container homes are made from recycled shipping containers, which are easy to find. You can simply run a search for container brokers in your area or even find them on online classifieds. Just make sure to look for a container that is watertight and was never used to transport hazardous materials. You can find containers that have been very lightly used or never used at all.
They speak to a minimalist mindset. For homeowners who want to reduce their carbon footprint and environmental impact, cargotecture makes sense. Recycling the basic structure is inexpensive and keeps metal out of landfills. The size and shape of shipping containers also make for lower energy costs.

A cargo kitchen reduces energy costs. Image: Fredman Design

Shipping Container Homes: The Bad

Environmentally friendly and cheap? What’s not to love? Before you decide to build a DIY shipping container home, however, there are few things to consider:

Insulation and condensation. Typical building materials like wood, stone and composites are extensively tested for strength and integrity. Metal shipping containers aren’t designed for living space. This means you could run into issues like a lack of insulation, wind resistance and even condensation buildup. Working with a builder can help you choose and prep the right container for your weather and location.
Tricky building codes. Shipping containers are highly portable, but that doesn’t mean you can just plop one anywhere. Local building codes could limit the use of smaller homes or homes built with nontraditional materials. You’ll need to research your county and town building codes before deciding to go with cargotecture. What’s more, you may need to hire a driver with a truck license to move your shipping container from place to place.
Contractor concerns. When it comes to shipping containers, not all contractors are created equally. Most contractors are unfamiliar with cargotecture and may not know how to navigate the terrain when it comes to planning and building. Make sure you choose a builder who has worked with shipping containers before to ensure the process goes smoothly and stays on budget.

A shipping container home simplifies the design and build process. That can mean a faster road to a move-in ready home. Still, it’s a new frontier as far as building goes. Building with an unfamiliar material can make the process unpredictable, but with the right planning and design, a shipping container home can make sense for a new homeowner.

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10 New Year’s Resolutions for Busy (and Lazy) People

January 14, 2019 by admin

The new year is a time for change. This annual milestone is typically accompanied by new goals, plans and objectives. Unfortunately, most people don’t keep their new year’s resolutions, often because the goals are so inconvenient that they become unsustainable. And if you’re busy (or lazy), it’s twice as hard to remain steadfast. However, we’ve compiled a list of relatively easy ways that you can make small changes in your home this year. Here are 10 new year’s resolutions you can keep.

Grow a Green Thumb

Plants add beauty and health benefits. Image: M + Architecture Studio

If you don’t have a green thumb, commit to buying at least one plant this year. And if you don’t kill it, you may discover that you actually like tending to plants. Besides adding beauty to your home, studies show that fresh flowers can lower anxiety and depression, and some of the best and easy-to-care-for indoor plants include Golden Pothos and Chrysanthemums. After you become more comfortable indoor plants, you may decide to start growing perennials, shrubs, and other plants in your yard.

Reduce Your Fire Risk

Clean behind your appliances at least quarterly. Image: Cynthia Hayes Interior Design

Appliance provide convenience, but they can also start fires. Commit to cleaning under and behind your appliances (refrigerator, washer, dryer, etc.) on a quarterly basis, and clean your dryer vents after each use. Not only will these actions help you avoid a fire, but they can also make your appliances operate more efficiently.

Make at Least One Small Decorating Change

A new shower curtain can transform your bathroom. Image: Shelly Chung Design

If you haven’t changed your curtains or drapes in 10 years, you’re well overdue for a change. And simply swapping your shower curtain can make your bathroom look new, plus it might motivate you to make additional changes throughout your home as you work on your new year’s resolutions.

Organize and Label

A place for everything and everything in its place. Image: Neat Method San Diego

These pretty glass containers can be purchased at almost any big box store, and the labels help you keep everything neatly organized. “The new year is the perfect time to set resolutions and get a fresh start on organizing your life and space,” explains Jacquie Hunter at P-touch, which makes the P-touch CUBE Label Maker. “Convenient features like pre-designed templates and auto-cut save you time, and the Bluetooth connectivity allows you to easily create customized labels directly from your phone to label kitchen ingredients, out-of-season clothing, holiday decorations and endless other items.”

Perform Painless Updates

Easily update your hardware. Image: Globus Builder

With a simple screwdriver, you can change out the towel rack and toilet paper holder in your bathroom and the cabinet knobs and pulls in your bathroom and kitchen. With so many finishes to choose from, ranging from nickel and stainless steel to bronze and copper tones, this is another inexpensive way to update your home.

Save Electricity Without Thinking About It

Set it and forget it. Image: Deako Smart Lighting

If you hate having to get up off of the sofa to turn off the light or you keep forgetting to turn off the lights when you leave the house, consider a product like Deako Smart Lighting, which has schedules and timers so you can control your lights from anywhere. There’s also a neat feature that allows you to turn off all of your lights with a single touch. It’s a great way to save money on your electricity bill and, if you’ve added “saving” to your list of new year’s resolutions, it can make keeping your resolution a snap.

Avoid Clutter

Keep your countertops clean. Image: Michael Abraham Architecture

If you hate having to clean clutter, here’s a thought: don’t let clutter accumulate in the first place. “Consider cleaning as you go,” recommends professional organizer Barbara Reich of Resourceful Consultants. “Get in the habit of picking things up and putting them away as you’re walking around the house and working in various rooms.” She also recommends putting items where you’ll actually use them. “You’ll have a better chance of putting items away if they’re stored where you take them out,” Reich explains.

Wash Wisely

Work smarter, not harder. Image: Art of Kitchens

“Stop putting dirty dishes and cups in the sink, and then putting them in the dishwasher later,” Reich advises. “Do a quick rinse and load the dishwasher in the moment,” she says. Reich also recommends filling the dishwasher properly, which means putting like items together. “If you do, emptying the dishwasher will take a literal three minutes,” she says. Using the dishwasher also saves more water than hand-washing dishes in the sink, another way to minimize utility bills and help you with your new year’s resolution to save money.

Pamper Yourself

Indulge in everyday luxuries. Image: Luin Living

One of your new year’s resolutions should be to take better care of yourself. You need to relax and refresh. “But it’s not necessary to go to a spa or luxury hotel to experience this type of indulgent feeling,” says Marie Alfano, Director of Operations at Luin Living USA. “You can create a spa or sanctuary environment every day in your own home with the right tools.” Luin Living makes towels, bathrobes, house shoes, candles, rugs, bed linens and an assortment of other comfortable yet stylish items to help you pamper yourself. Creating a relaxing environment can help dissolve those feelings of stress and anxiety and allow you to focus on what’s most important in 2019.

Embrace Minimalism

Minimalist design. Image: Marcye Philbrook

Minimalist design is uncluttered. However, minimalism is more than just a design style. “Embrace minimalism by having fewer possessions in your life,” says Reich. “Fewer items to take care of translates to more time to do what you enjoy.”

The post 10 New Year’s Resolutions for Busy (and Lazy) People appeared first on Freshome.com.

Create a Hobby or Craft Room in 3 Easy Steps

January 14, 2019 by admin

If you have a hobby, like sewing, photography, music, DIY-ing, collecting stamps or trying to fix what your kids and significant other broke, it helps to have a dedicated workspace. Below are three easy steps to create a functional yet stylish hobby or craft room.

Decide Where to Put it

This multipurpose room combines laundry and crafting. Image: RW Anderson Homes

Think you don’t have space for a hobby or craft room? You’d be surprised at the possibilities. Mina Fies, creator of the Renovation Roadmap and Founder & CEO of Synergy Design & Construction, tells Freshome that a client recently contacted her firm for help after the teenage daughter took over the family’s dining room. “It was no longer used for eating, but was overflowing with craft store supplies, half-finished projects and Mod Podge.” Fies helped the family turn the unfinished laundry room into a multifunctional room. The space has sliding wall panels hiding floor-to-ceiling storage and a standalone craft table in the center of the room that also doubles as a place to sort and fold laundry.

A garage hobby room with a large workspace and under-mounted LED cabinet lighting: Image: TransFORM Home

In fact, Jennifer Baldinger, a Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker at Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty in Scarsdale, NY, believes there’s no wrong place for a craft room. “I love the idea of using odd spaces such as oversized closets, windowless rooms in a basement, even garage space,” she said. And one of Baldinger’s buyers repurposed the area under a staircase to create a “secret” fun play space for their young daughter to create art projects.

Decide How to Create It

This repurposed garage could be used for various types of crafts and hobbies. Image: Lynde Galloway Interior

Fortunately, it doesn’t take much to create a craft or hobby room. “You need some good storage shelves and a workspace with a table,” Bellinger says. “I’ve seen some great ones in a back corner of a basement where my clients used an old kitchen table.”

A dining room converted into a photographer’s work space. Image: CM Natural Designs

However, depending on how much time you’ll spend there and what you expect to accomplish in this space, you may need to put a little more thought into it. “For comfortable work, you will need sufficient space – reliable and easy to clean,” advises Katy Brut, interior design consultant at NY Furniture Outlets. “The table should either be fairly wide or be able to expand in the process of working on your project,” she says.

A colorful, comfortable and functional craft room. Image: BEHR

Comfortable seating is also important. “Sometimes, you want to look for ideas in books and, if your family is like mine, they want to come ask you questions while you work,” says Janet Perry, a needlepoint teacher and author at Napa Needlepoint in Mare Island, CA. “Having a comfy chair gives you a place for relaxation and them a place to sit when they come in.”

A fishing enthusiast’s dream workshop shed. Image: Epoch Solutions

Lighting is another important consideration. “You need a lot of light, and if the room is not bright enough, add lamps,” Brut recommends.

Decide How to Organize and Store Your Supplies

This hobby room has plenty of storage options. Image: Bart Edson Photography

To keep the room organized, Brut says you’ll need a storage system, and she takes a very detailed approach. “In advance, calculate the number of not only boxes and shelves, but even internal drawers,” she says.

“Ideally, all the most important stuff should be at hand. Begin by grouping your stuff by categories and types. For example, ribbons with ribbons, buttons with buttons.” She recommends dedicating larger drawers to tools and materials in large quantities. “Now it’s time for the finishing touch. You need to pick up suitable containers for each group. You will need boxes, jars and organizers – all this can be found in any home goods store.”

If you’re really creative, Brut says you can repurpose items. For example, decorate a glass jar and store threads, buttons or other small items in it. “If you have opaque containers, be sure to label them to help you locate them when needed,” Brut says.

Perry also recommends using repurposed items for storage. “One of the best things I have gotten for my craft room is card catalog ‘chunks’ – they are great storage and can be easy to find.”

Another multipurpose craft room. Image: Capital Cabinets & Floors

However, you can also purchase bookcases, storage or have custom shelving installed. “When being creative, it really helps to have quick and easy access to the inputs you need, whether yarn, sewing thread and paint, paper, canvas, research material or reference books,” says J.B. Sassano, president of Mr. Handyman. “Consider the power of concealed storage – recessed cabinets, closet organizers, built-in bookcases and the idea of incorporating storage drawers or cabinets in your central work surface, custom built to match your unique needs and sense of style.”

In addition to storage and a workspace, Perry also recommends having a place to display your work. “Not only will having pieces you are proud of make you happy, they often can inspire future work,” she says. “I have many of my needlepoint pieces on display on walls and shelves and I love seeing them.”

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Here’s Your Design Style According To Your Zodiac Sign

January 13, 2019 by admin

Your zodiac sign can say a lot about your personality and preferences. Depending on where the stars were in the sky at the time of your birth, your design style may be bold and messy, neat and organized or somewhere in between.

Look up your zodiac sign below (or the sign of someone you love) to check out the sign’s favorite design style. It’s a great way to find the perfect gift for someone or help yourself define the best design style for your personality.

Aries

The fiery Aries loves the latest design ideas and the color red. Image: Silver Dragon

About you: You’re fiery, passionate and a pioneer. An Aries is full of energy and people are drawn to your fun, warm personality. Aries people aren’t afraid to try something new. You love to be out and about, so you prefer your home to be low maintenance.

Design style: Contemporary

Design keywords: Minimalist, contemporary, sleek, the latest

Power color: Red and any bold, fiery colors

Must-have home element: Anything in leather, especially if the leather is red, black or white

Stores just for you: All Modern, Design Within Reach

Taurus

Taureans love soft, tactile fabrics and textures. Image: Tarimas Deautor

About you: Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty. Comfort, security and a warm, peaceful environment are important to you. The best food and decor await behind the doors of a Taurus space.

Design style: Traditional luxe

Design keywords: Luxury, classic, comfortable

Power color: Green

Must-have home element: The ultimate lounging sofa or daybed, complete with throw pillows and a soft throw

Stores just for you: Restoration Hardware, Williams Sonoma

Gemini

It’s likely that a Gemini will have bookcases that display their book and object collection. Image: Carla Capdevila

About you: You’re easy-breezy, a great communicator and always on the hunt for new things. You’re ruled by twins, meaning you have two very opposite sides to you, making you seem eclectic. You’re the one sign that can love traditional and modern at the same time while falling in love in an instant with the next design trend.

Design style: Modern eclectic

Design keywords: Trendy, mix and match, light and airy

Power color: White

Must-have home element: A modern bookcase (or two) for all your books

Stores just for you: CB2, Urban Outfitters

Cancer

A Cancer space is always cozy, inviting, unfussy and family-friendly. Image: Zero Energy Design

About you: Cancers are the ultimate homebody. Your home is very important to you and it’s always cozy, comfortable and unpretentious. People gravitate to you because of your soothing, nurturing personality.

Design style: Farmhouse

Design keywords: Simple, comfortable, nostalgic, family-friendly

Power color: White

Must-have home element: A gallery wall or photo frames to display your favorite family photos and keepsakes

Stores just for you: Magnolia Home, Pottery Barn

Leo

Leos love high-end details like gold accents and graphic patterns. Image: Interior By Malin

About you: You’re regal and you know it. You were born to shine and be the star of the zodiac. In fact, many Leos have wild hair or some attribute that sets them apart from the crowd. Your home is a reflection of you – unique, lavish and eye-catching.

Design style: Maximalist

Design keywords: Regal, more is more, lavish, personalized

Power color: Gold

Must-have home element: Monogrammed everything

Stores just for you: One Kings Lane, Neiman Marcus

Virgo

This immaculate space has a warm feeling, thanks to rustic, natural elements like recycled wood floors. Image: Luigi Rosselli

About you: You have an eye that notices every tiny detail. You need order, organization and cleanliness or you’ll go crazy. Because Virgos belong to the earth element, you prefer natural materials. People appreciate your helpful, practical personality and your need for harmony at home.

Design style: Rustic modern

Design keywords: Zen, organized, natural, organic

Power color: Earth tones like mocha and beige

Must-have home element: A striking living wall or lots of indoor plants

Stores just for you: West Elm, The Container Store

Libra

Libras love to entertain and their homes are a pleasing environment for guests and family. Image: Kixo

About you: You’re naturally stylish and can be quite artistic. People are drawn to you because of your talent for being diplomatic and fair. Harmonious relationships are very important to you. Your home shows this innate talent for balance and harmony, although sometimes you get overwhelmed by everything and your house becomes a bit messy. But it will always be a pretty mess.

Design style: Modern

Design keywords: Proportionate, inviting, elegant, fashionable

Power color: Light blues and pinks

Must-have home element: A gorgeous dining room setting for six or more

Stores just for you: Crate & Barrel, Nordstrom

Scorpio

Scorpios are best known for their air of mystery and their love for dark, refined and dramatic style. Image: Project Interiors

About you: Your secretive nature makes you mysterious and enigmatic to others. You’re fascinated by all things deep and below the surface, like how or why things work. You’re suspicious of trends and superficial ideas. You prefer your home to be your gorgeously-appointed cave where you feel safe to be yourself away from the prying eyes of the world.

Design style: Classic

Design keywords: Mysterious, refined, private, sensuous

Power color: Black

Must-have home element: A bedroom featuring a velvet headboard and layers of richly colored silk sheets with blackout curtains

Stores just for you: Bo Concept, Restoration Hardware

Sagittarius

Outdoor elements like potted plants or natural materials, fused with exotic objects from their travels, are often found in the home of a Sagittarius. Image: Rikki Snyder

About you: We thank you, dear Saggie, for being you. You’re funny, easy-going and the first one to sign up for a road trip or outdoor adventure like bungee jumping or a treasure hunt. You can’t live without the outdoors or far-off cultures, making you the ultimate free spirit.

Design style: Global chic

Design keywords: Global, boho-chic, bright, outdoorsy

Power color: Indigo

Must-have home element: A wall of objects from your travels

Stores just for you: Pier 1, World Market

Capricorn

Capricorns may put practicality above all, but they still manage to create an elegant signature style. Image: Rachel Madden Interiors

About you: You tend to be traditional. Friends love you for your reliable nature and the wise advice you offer. Practicality comes before comfort or style. You work hard to earn what you have and value everything in your possession. There’s no room for things of no use in your space.

Design style: Scandinavian

Design keywords: Practical, antique, durable

Power color: Grey

Must-have home element: A beautiful and well-organized closet

Stores just for you: Room and Board, Hay

Aquarius

Quirky, artistic and fun objects are often found in the home of an Aquarius. Image: 30s Magazine

About you: You’re fascinated by anything unusual or different. Good causes and the environment are important to you. You’re a rebel and crave freedom so you can express your unique self fully. You have lots of friends and admirers that find you to be unpretentious and a breath of fresh air.

Design style: Eco-eclectic

Design keywords: Hi-tech, avant-garde, green, crafty

Power color: Aqua blue

Must-have home element: A living room featuring repurposed objects like a wood pallet coffee table

Stores just for you: Etsy, Viva Terra

Pisces

Pisces dwellers are drawn to all things water-related. You’re bound to find lots of glass and blue decor in their airy homes. Image: Black Band Design

About you: Pisces is the dreamer of the zodiac. You’re sensitive, have a great imagination and need a sanctuary where you can rest, relax and recharge your batteries. Pisces is a water element and is drawn to the sea.

Design style: Coastal

Design keywords: Beachy, zen, relaxed, subtle, ethereal

Power color: Slate blue

Must-have home element: A crisp white bedroom with a beachy-zen vibe and a small fish bowl

Stores just for you: Anthropologie, Joss & Main

Do you agree with your zodiac sign personality and design style? Or is there one that you identify with more closely?

The post Here’s Your Design Style According To Your Zodiac Sign appeared first on Freshome.com.