Month: October 2019

Hardwood vs. Laminate Wood Flooring

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The flooring of a home is one of its defining features. Wood flooring remains one of the most popular options, as it is a naturally inviting, beautiful and timeless material. While older, more traditional homes often have the original hardwood floors still in place, many newer homes are using laminate. It offers a natural look similar to wood but at a lower price.

When deciding between hardwood vs. laminate flooring, there are several pros and cons to consider. Sure, when comparing laminate vs hardwood cost, laminate is usually the more affordable option. But you also must look at durability, resale value, cleaning, installation and more. This article will compare some of the factors between hardwood vs laminate flooring and help you decide which is best for your home.

DIY Laminate Flooring

Image: Elnur/Shutterstock

Laminate vs. hardwood cost

The reality of flooring costs and what you can afford may be miles apart. Take into consideration the cost of laminate and hardwood flooring to determine what is best for you.

  • Hardwood: CONS – Hardwood flooring is made of harvested trees; pricing depends on the type of wood you choose. In general, hardwood is considerably higher to buy and to install.
  • Laminate: PROS – Laminate wood flooring is made from composite wood pressed together at high temperatures. The image of hardwood is then placed over the composite wood, covering it to form the laminate. Not only are the materials themselves cheaper, but laminate wood installation cost is, on average, 50 percent less than hardwood installation.

Laminate flooring can cost $3-$7 per square foot, including installation. Solid wood flooring can cost $5-$10 per square foot, including installation. Again, the exact prices will vary depending on the types of materials used and the size of your home.

Laminate vs. hardwood durability

Assess the traffic load and wear and tear on flooring in your home. A more durable surface is easier to maintain and will look great for years to come.

  • Hardwood: CONS – Hardwood is susceptible to scratching, can get damaged from excessive moisture and will show wear, especially in heavily trafficked areas. PROS – Hardwood is the real deal; it is gorgeous and, depending on the type of wood, can add considerable value to your home.
  • Laminate: PROS – Since laminate is made from pressed wood, it is more durable and resists scratches, moisture and wear and tear. Laminate flooring is also easier to clean. CONS – Even though laminate is more durable, it is not as visually appealing. Lower qualities of laminate may have artificial-looking wood grain textures.
flooring

Image: Breadmaker/Shutterstock

Laminate vs. hardwood repair

Your home’s flooring will typically need repairs at some point. From minor accidents to excessive wear and tear, laminate and hardwood have advantages and disadvantages.

  • Hardwood: PROS – Hardwood can be repaired by sanding imperfections and refinishing. This gives it the edge over laminate, in that it will last for years.
  • Laminate: CONS – Laminate flooring doesn’t repair easily. If you buy flooring that comes in individual pieces and snaps together, you may be able to replace individual boards — although, depending on sunlight and age, the new piece may not match properly.

Best places for hardwood vs. laminate flooring
In addition to price, durability and repair, you should also consider the best (and worst) places in the home for both types of flooring.

  • Hardwood: Hardwood flooring is both beautiful and fairly durable, especially in lower-traffic rooms like bedrooms and dining rooms. But, if you have pets or a lot of foot traffic, your hardwood floors might show the scratches and wear overtime. Basements and bathrooms with a lot of moisture are also not good places for hardwood flooring. On the other hand, continuous sunlight can fade your hardwood flooring overtime as well.
  • Laminate: Because laminate flooring is so durable, it’s less susceptible to wear and tear from pets and foot traffic. While it withstands moisture better than hardwood, it should not be in a regularly wet area of the home. Because of its top coat, laminate flooring typically does not fade from sunlight as quickly and noticeably as hardwood flooring and can be used safely in rooms with large windows.

Your home will benefit from the look of wood flooring; deciding between hardwood vs. laminate flooring is up to you. Review the pros and cons, and be realistic about your lifestyle; if you have pets, young kids or high traffic, that may influence your decision.

If you have a lot of sunlight in your home, hardwood can fade because it is a natural product, while laminate wood flooring has UV protection integrated into the surface. Consider all the factors — and enjoy how the warmth of wood will improve your home’s aesthetic appeal and value.

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Best Kitchen Flooring Ideas

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There are so many kitchen flooring options available that it can feel difficult to find the right one. When making your decision, you’ll want to consider two factors: function and durability. Whatever it’s made of, your kitchen floor should be easy-to-maintain and long-lasting. There is a beautiful option for you, no matter your style or budget. Follow this guide to understand the expected costs and the pros and cons of some of the most popular kitchen flooring options.

The kitchen is often one of the most popular rooms in the entire house. For this reason, you’ll want a material built to withstand lots of foot traffic over time. And due to the high number of spills — whether it be wine, sauce, oil or any other liquid and food that tends to stain — you’ll want kitchen flooring that’s easy to clean and maintain.

The top durable flooring options include:

-Concrete
-Rubber flooring
-Stone
-Tile
-Vinyl
-Wood laminate

Besides durability, cooking usually requires long periods of standing and walking back and forth. Flooring that has some cushioning is helpful, especially if you suffer from back issues.

The most ergonomic flooring options include:

-Bamboo
-Carpet tile
-Cork
-Rubber flooring
-Vinyl
-Wood
-Hardwood laminate

Let’s look at the materials available for your kitchen flooring ideas (in alphabetical order) and weigh their pros and cons.

Bamboo Kitchen Flooring

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If you like eco-friendly products, bamboo is great for kitchen flooring. Bamboo grows extremely quickly, making it a sustainable source for flooring. In addition to being eco-friendly, bamboo is one of the strongest natural materials on the market, so it will withstand lots of use. Be sure to go with a reputable brand with a long warranty, should you choose bamboo flooring. The quality of the bamboo flooring is reflected by the length of the warranty.

Pros: Durable, beautifully grained, eco-friendly, long warranty available.

Cons: Some bamboo flooring can dent easily.

Cost: $2.09 – $5.91 per square foot, installation averages at $8 per square foot.

Carpet Kitchen Flooring

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Since carpet is often difficult to maintain and clean, as it can absorb stains and spills, it has not always been one of the more popular kitchen flooring options. But the latest carpet tiles are a modern kitchen floor solution. Designed and tested to be industrial grade for high traffic areas, made of durable, easy to clean materials and easy to install, they now make a unique kitchen flooring idea. The best part is that a carpet tile can be removed for cleaning or replacement. Choose a carpet tile from a company like Flor, designed for the modern, DIY consumer. Be sure to buy an extra box of tiles and keep for future replacements. For a modern look, use carpet tiles selectively in certain areas of your kitchen like the image above, instead of wall to wall.

Pros: Durable, modern colors and textures, soft and padded, recyclable.

Cons: Needs frequent cleaning and vacuuming.

Cost: $1 to $3.60 per square foot

Concrete Kitchen Flooring

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Concrete has a contemporary look and tone that is hard to match. It not only looks great; because of its durability, it can stand up to the busiest kitchens. There are various finishes you can give concrete to customize its look. Freshly poured concrete can be stamped, while all concrete can be stained, polished, stenciled and waxed. If you like concrete flooring and live in a colder climate, consider adding radiant floor heating beneath the concrete to warm up the material’s cold surface.

Pros: Durable, versatile, moisture resistant, contemporary looking.

Cons: Hard if standing is required for prolonged periods, cold, needs resealing, can stain.

Cost: Depending on the level of preparation required to install and finish concrete, cost averages range widely between $2 – $30 per square foot installed.

Cork Kitchen Flooring
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Cork is a good kitchen flooring idea that offers a unique texture and a padded feel underfoot. Cork is a natural insulator, and can help with both temperature changes and noise. It’s also naturally antimicrobial, as the waxy substance in the cork repels insects and pests. On a budget? Cork tiles are a great DIY solution that’s easy to install. Choose a quality cork that like wood, can be sanded and refinished periodically. Confirm that the cork has a durable finish that will repel water and moisture. If choosing to install cork tiles, buy a few spares that can serve as future replacements should the tile flooring become damaged.

Pros: Earth friendly, anti-microbial, soft, padded feel, attractive texture options.

Cons: Can dent or scratch easily, creating imperfections on the surface that may bother some cork flooring owners.

Cost: $5.24 – $7.24 per square foot.

Laminate Wood Kitchen Flooring

laminate fllors

Laminate wood flooring is an affordable and durable kitchen flooring idea. The top layer can withstand most abuse. If you add padding beneath, it’s a soft, ergonomic flooring solution. Easy-to-install and available in a wide variety of styles, laminate wood flooring is a simple, modern solution for kitchen floors. Choose laminate flooring with the longest warranty possible. Many come with a 25-year guarantee. For extra cushioning when standing, install a manufacturer-recommended thin foam sheet layer underneath.

Pros: Durable, cost effective, wide variety of options, easy to install and uninstall.

Cons: Is not as valued as real wood flooring, may be slippery, noisy, not refinishable.

Cost: $2.00 – $4.00 per square foot.

Rubber Kitchen Flooring
rubber

Rubber has similar properties to cork, but comes in a larger variety of colors and textures. It’s both easy-to-install and doesn’t require an adhesive, thanks to its high-grip properties. This makes it a good temporary flooring upgrade if you’re in a rental apartment. It’s cushy underfoot, durable and has a non-slip surface, so it’s perfect for busy kitchens. And it’s available in sheeting or tiles so it’s easy to customize. Choose richer, darker colors which hide oil stains better. As an added bonus, rubber tiles are easier to install than sheeting. For an earth-friendly kitchen floor, choose recycled rubber flooring, which is also less expensive.

Pros: Recyclable, naturally water and fire-resistant, durable, easy to clean, soft, padded feel.

Cons: Some people are sensitive to the initial smell, oils may stain the rubber’s surface.

Cost: Approximately $3.50, including installation.

Stone Kitchen Flooring

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There’s a great variety of stone flooring available including the most popular marble, travertine and slate. Because of the natural pattern and color variations found in the material, stone is a great kitchen flooring idea that gives each kitchen a unique, earthy look. Stone flooring is also naturally cool, which is perfect in hotter climates. If installing stone flooring in a cold climate, consider adding subfloor radiant heat to warm the floors in the winter. Purchase at least 25% more than you need and save your receipt to return the rejected stone. Look through all your stone tiles before having them professionally installed. It’s likely that the grain and coloring of the stone will vary dramatically and you’ll want to hand select the pieces you want installed for a similar texture and tonal match.

Pros: Hard, durable surface, easy to clean.

Cons: Certain stones may stain, requires routine sealing, some fragile stones like slate may chip easily.

Cost: Depending on the material, $17.91 – $27.53 per square foot.

Tile Kitchen Flooring

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Tile flooring is a great, low-maintenance solution for a kitchen. It’s easy-to-clean, durable and has a reflective quality that expands the appearance of space in a kitchen. The latest tile designs mimic wood and other textures and patterns. Know that tile no longer comes exclusively as a 12” square, so you can customize your design more easily. Some of the latest modern designs are large, rectangular shapes. Hire a professional to install the tile flooring, especially if the subflooring is not perfectly level. For ease of maintenance, install tiles with grout lines that are as small as possible.

Pros: Durable, moisture resistant, easy to maintain, available in a large assortment of styles, shapes and colors.

Cons: Grout lines may be difficult to keep clean, dropped items like glassware and dishes will likely shatter.

Cost: $11.34 – $17.38 per square foot.

Vinyl Kitchen Flooring

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Vinyl is affordable, comes in a variety of textures and styles and is one of the most water-resistant kitchen flooring options. While tiles are easy to install, sheet vinyl requires professional installation. Consider the latest wood-look vinyl flooring planks. Easy to install, water resistant enough to be used in a shower, kitchen or wet area and textured to mimic wood grain, it takes a careful look to see if the wood plank vinyl flooring is actually wood or not.

Pros: Easy to install, water resistant, certain styles look just like wood.

Cons: Offgasses potentially harmful chemicals in your home, requires a flawless subfloor to install on, can gouge easily.

Cost: $2.83 – $3.82 per square foot.

Hardwood Kitchen Flooring

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Hardwood has traditionally been on the top of buyer’s lists for flooring choices. Hardwood has a high-end, warm look that’s unique, according to grain and age. But hardwood in the kitchen requires special protection from excess moisture. Add an extra coat of finish in the kitchen to keep the wood sealed. If living in a high humidity or coastal region, avoid wider planks, which will cup and warp over time.

Pros: Adds resale value, attractive, durable, can be refinished.

Cons: Can be noisy, needs periodic refinishing, may dent or scratch easily.

Cost: $6 – $18 per square foot, including installation.

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Easy Kitchen Wall Decorating Ideas

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Do you love looking through the latest design magazines for kitchen decorating ideas, but don’t have the time or budget for a major remodel? We’ve got some quick and easy decorating tips on how to give your kitchen an update worthy of a home magazine. The best part is that these kitchen decorating ideas can mix and match beautifully — use one or a few together.

We naturally see things at eye level first, and one of the most noticeable changes you can make is to decorate your kitchen walls. Most kitchen decorating efforts are placed on the appliances, countertops, and cooking gadgets. But the walls are where you can make a big impact with an easy DIY project. 

Take a quick glance at your kitchen. What do you see first? A dingy, boring wall? Or worse, an outdated faux paint job complete with ivy or fruit-themed stencil work? It’s time to make a change.

Updating your kitchen wall decor with easy, design-savvy changes will transform your cooking and dining experience. Here are 5 kitchen decorating ideas that take your kitchen’s walls from tired to inspired:

1. The Three-Color Palette

kitchen wall decor tips

Color is one of the fastest and most inexpensive ways to update a room. But great kitchen wall colors don’t happen by accident. The secret is in the three-color palette:

Color 1: An existing kitchen color that can’t be changed. This may be the color of the countertop or cabinets.

Color 2: A neutral of your choice. Use it for the new kitchen wall color that complements color 1. It’ll serve as your decor backdrop.

Color 3: The color that makes your kitchen unique. It’s often a bold and unexpected color that works with your palette. Color 3 adds pop to your kitchen. Use it as a statement piece for your accessories like bar stools, vases or cookware.

The best way to find the perfect three-color palette is to grab paint swatches in the shades you like and shuffle them around until you’re happy with the combination. Once you find your signature three-color palette, keep a set of paint chips handy for accessory shopping.

2. The Best Kitchen Decorating Ideas Start With a Focal Point

kitchen wall decor tips

Try to see your current kitchen decor the way a visitor would view it for the first time. Walk into your kitchen and think about what you notice. Is the first thing you see something you like? If not, what would you rather notice first? Make that spot and the closest wall your focal point.

Focal points are eye-catching and visually jump out at you. Compared to the rest of the kitchen, the focal point is bold and unique.  To create a focal wall in your kitchen, try one of these techniques:

– Paint your focal wall in the bold shade you chose for your kitchen’s three-color palette

– Hang a large piece of art on the focal wall

– Use textured, patterned, or vibrantly-colored wallpaper

Be fearless when dressing up your focal point — it’s just one wall.

3. Open Shelving — the Latest Trend in Kitchen Wall Decor

kitchen wall decor tips

If you’ve updated your kitchen decorating with fresh, fashion-forward colors and a focal wall, it’s time to add layers. The latest trend in kitchen design is open shelving, instead of cabinets. This look lightens a kitchen up by creating visual space, but requires you to hide all the tupperware and mismatched glasses in fewer cabinets.

Instead of tearing out your upper cabinets, try updating your kitchen wall decor by placing one or two floating shelves on an open wall. Floating shelves come in many styles and are easy to install. Keep the floating shelf display items minimal and color-coordinated for a magazine-ready look.

For a bigger change, take the doors off of one or two kitchen cabinets and paint or wallpaper the back of the cabinet. You now have a new open display shelf. To give your new display life, add LED under-cabinet lighting to highlight the items. Battery-powered lights are available if cabinet wiring is an issue.

4. The Carefully-Curated Kitchen Wall Design

creating a kitchen gallery wall

Set your kitchen apart by adding touches of your personality. Gallery wall collections are popular with designers and magazines because they’re unique and make a boring wall interesting. Gather favorite objects together and use them as kitchen wall decor.

Modern kitchen decorating ideas for a gallery wall collection include:

-Framed album covers

-Baskets

-Framed wallpaper or fabric swatches

-Vintage dishes

-Empty antique frames of different shapes and sizes

-A variety of mirrors

There are no absolute design rules to creating a kitchen gallery wall. Symmetrical, patterned or freestyle placement are all good approaches. To save time (and extra nail holes on the wall), arrange your collection on the floor before hanging for the best spacing and placement.

5. Personalize Your Kitchen Wall With Chalkboard Paint

kitchen decorating idea for chalkboard paint

A can of black chalkboard paint is inexpensive and a great way to dress up an accent wall in your kitchen. Black is a bold, eye-catching wall color and the perfect backdrop for your ever-changing chalk art.

If you’re out of wall space, a door or cabinet surface is another great chalkboard (and dinner menu) in the making. Remember to layer. A floating shelf or gallery wall collection on your chalkboard wall adds to the unique look of your new, inspired kitchen walls.

Want more ideas for your kitchen? Check out the following articles:

50 White Kitchen Ideas That Work
14 Creative Kitchen Backsplash Ideas
60 Beautiful Kitchen Island Ideas
Beautiful Outdoor Kitchen Island Ideas For Summer

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Teen Bedroom Ideas That Are Fun and Cool

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Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

If you’re searching for teen bedroom ideas, think about what your teenager loves and see their bedroom through their perspective. It’s more than a place to sleep, the bedroom is where your teen escapes from the world of grown-up demands and rules.

There are few places where a teen can express themselves and the bedroom is their top choice. Their favorite things may be diverse and unusual, but with some planning, all of their passions can tie together beautifully.

When brainstorming teen bedroom ideas, the most important thing to remember is that their bedroom is an expression of who they are.

Today’s teenagers are design-conscious and up to date on the latest trends. But they’re torn between childhood and adulthood. Most teens have beloved toys they’re not ready to give up, but look for a room that’s older and more sophisticated than their childhood room.

A teen will most appreciate an approach to their room as their mini, self-contained apartment where they can spend most of their time comfortably. Regardless of size, a teen’s bedroom needs to be versatile enough for them to spread out and get homework done, hang with friends, lounge and sleep, all while reflecting their personality.

Teen bedroom ideas should include functions specific to their age, as well as look great. While adults prefer a space that’s calm and understated, teens appreciate vibrant, high energy rooms. Keep the following teen bedroom ideas in mind.

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Image: Room27/Shutterstock

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Image: KatarzynaBialasiewicz/Getty Images

Multi-Purpose Room

A teenager’s room is more than just a sleeping space. As they begin exploring their independence, having a room where they can hang out, study and lounge with friends is almost as important as sleep. And the social aspect of a teen room decor is big. A survey of global teenagers found that the #1 thing a teen would add to their room is a poster of themselves with their friends. Work with your teen to creatively include the following areas in their room:

  • Cozy sleep area
  • Customized study area
  • Place to lounge with friends
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Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

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Image: supersizer/Getty Images

If your teen’s bedroom is a small space, use creative approaches to meet their multi-purpose room needs. Try these space-saving ideas to design cool room decor:

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Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

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Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

Bold Wall Design

Most teens love vibrantly colored, high energy rooms and decorating a bedroom wall makes a big impact. Check out these ideas for making a wow wall that stands out:

  • Bright colors and geometric designs
  • Custom-printed wall treatments
  • Removable wall decals
  • Hand-picked paint, chalkboard paint or a graffiti wall for an urban style
  • Favorite words in neon or lighted marquee signs
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Image: New Africa/Shutterstock

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Image: New Africa/Shutterstock

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Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

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Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

Fun Teen Bedroom Ideas

Teenagers love hanging out in a bedroom that’s fun, creative, and one-of-a-kind.  Bold and imaginative elements are the secret to making your teen excited about creating a cool new bedroom space. Add a few of these unexpected features to get a positive reaction.

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Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

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Image: New Africa/Shutterstock

Cozy Textures

Teens love spending time in their rooms because they feel safe and comfortable. This is especially true for a teenage girl’s room. They’re naturally drawn to feel-good fabrics, cute designs, and soft textures like these:

  • Flocked velvet wallpaper
  • Faux fur rug
  • Gauzy or patterned curtains
  • Plush bedding
  • Hanging fringe
  • Fuzzy or soft throw pillows
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Image: mates/Shutterstock

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Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

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Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

Savvy Storage

Let’s face it, teenagers and organized rooms are a rare combination. Messy bedrooms seem to be a teenager’s rite of passage. Smart storage options are one feature they probably didn’t think of, but will totally appreciate.

Help them keep their bedroom tidy and functional with these must-have storage items:

  • Dressers
  • Shelving
  • Under-the-bed storage bins
  • Storage benches or storage ottomans
  • A cabinet wall around the bed

Be sure to make storage fun, just like you would for all teen bedroom ideas. Combining functionality with personality is the key to designing a space they will love for years.

It doesn’t matter if you boy or girl teens at home, they can all appreciate cool bedroom decor. Invite them to brainstorm ideas with you to design a creative space that’s comfortable, functional, and suits their unique teenage style. 

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30 Modern Bathroom Design Ideas For Private Luxury

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Modern bathroom design is centered around a simple, clean, minimalistic look and feel. Think geometric shapes and patterns, clean lines, minimal colors and mid-century furniture. Your bathroom, large or small, can easily become a luxurious, modern sanctuary for function and relaxation. 

Since bathrooms are spaces that we use everyday, designing them to suit our personal style is important. From bright and cheery to sophisticated and elegant, these modern bathroom design ideas transform utilitarian spaces into relaxing and refreshing escapes.

Mid-Century Modern Style

Mid-century modern design is defined as the architectural, furniture, graphic and interior style of the mid-19th century (1933-1965). The mid-century modern look is made up of geometric shapes, natural colors and straight lines. Bathroom fixtures and furniture is great place to start when designing your modern bathroom. 

Create a focal point by placing a modern chair in the corner or even a small sofa. Look for patterns and colors that fit mid-century style. You can also find this style used in modern bathroom faucets, showerheads, mirrors and other bathroom hardware.

“Design is a plan for arranging elements in such a way as best to accomplish a particular purpose.” —Charles Eames

Minimalist Design

Simplicity is a rule of thumb for modern design, so make sure that you are keeping your bathroom open and free of clutter. Use built-in shelving and cabinetry to hide unwanted personal items. Tuck away toiletries and novelty items and focus on a clean space for relaxation. Avoid the temptation to add accessories and clutter. Choose tile and backsplash with geometric shapes to add interest and character without sacrificing minimalistic design.

Simplistic Bathroom Decor Ideas

  • Arrange framed geometric shaped mirrors on the bathroom wall
  • Place small white flower pots on shelves to add an organic feel
  • Hang framed modern prints
  • Add a floor-to-ceiling mirror
  • Showcase concrete and wood elements
  • Skip the “pop of color” and go for white and grey towels

Freestanding Bathtubs

Freestanding tubs are a staple for modern bathroom designs. Balance is key, so keep things symmetrical and sharp by strategically placing your tub in a spot that enhances the feng shui of your bathroom. Traditionally bathtubs are the familiar oval shape, however a rectangular or pedestal tub makes your bathroom look and feel more modern.

modern-tub

Greenery in the Shower

Adding a touch of greenery in your bathroom creates a connection between the indoors and outdoors. Organic design coincides with modern design, meaning that the natural outdoor space should easily mesh with the indoor space you are designing. Bring the outdoors inside by adding a houseplant or two — they look great in the shower, next to the sink, or on a windowsill.

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Modern Lighting

Choosing lighting is a crucial part of modern design style especially in the bathroom. Modern design is all about lines and geometric shapes, so keep that in mind when shopping for light fixtures or windows, and considering the placement of lighting.Don’t forget that the quality of the light is just as important as the actual light fixture. Skylights are a fresh and functional design trick for modern bathrooms, because they add more natural light and visual interest to your bathroom.

“The quality of the light around us has a profound effect on our well-being that should not be underestimated.” — Thomas Fuchs

Modern bathrooms, from small to large and in homes or apartments, can easily be achieved by adding the mid-century elements and ideas we’ve shared. Try including some element of them all to create a complete modern feel in your bathroom. 

  • Mid-Century Furniture
  • Simple & Minimalist Design
  • Freestanding Bathtub
  • Greenery
  • Lighting

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10 Laundry Room Ideas To Organize Small Spaces

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Laundry rooms are hot spots for household improvement these days. Whether your laundry room is in the basement, garage, kitchen, or closet — or you’re lucky enough to have a dedicated laundry room — these 10 laundry room ideas will help create a space that’s organized, up to date and is so beautiful that you’ll look forward to doing laundry. 

Where’s the best place to add a laundry room? Consider convenience first. Set up your laundry close to where dirty laundry collects, or near the bedrooms where clean laundry goes. Other favorite laundry room locations include near the back door, in the mud room, the kitchen, bathroom, closet, or dressing area.

Keep in mind that accidental flooding could happen in your laundry area. Waterproof flooring below the laundry machine is essential, especially if your laundry room is located on the second floor. Good ways to waterproof your floor include adding plastic sheeting over the subfloor, building out a shallow pan for the laundry machines to sit on, or using tile or waterproof vinyl under your washer and dryer. 

Another thing to consider when choosing a laundry room location is the noise from the machine’s vibrations. Laundry machines that are located on the second floor should be fitted with vibration pads that dampen the noise that occurs when the machine is in motion.

Although a few of our inspirational photos in the gallery are large rooms, these ideas work well for small laundry rooms or laundry workspaces in a closet. With a little creativity and planning, a useful, efficient laundry room is possible. 

 Here’s a laundry list of 10 easy laundry room ideas that organize, add value and upgrade your space.

1. Vibrant Laundry Room Paint Color

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Make the laundry room workspace bright and cheerful with a fresh coat of paint. Paint is an easy DIY way to upgrade your laundry room on a budget. Choose a color theme that’s bright and uplifts your mood. Popular paint colors to liven up your laundry area include vibrant citrus tones like lime green, yellow or orange. A crisp, bright white is another clean option that makes the room and your mood feel fresh. Don’t stop with the walls, also consider painting your laundry room cabinets!

2. Extra Laundry Counter Space

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Counter space is key in the laundry to make sorting and folding laundry easy work. Create a custom laundry room design by adding a counter over your side-by-side washer and dryer.

If you have the square footage, add an island to your laundry room to increase counter space.

3. Built-In Cabinets

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To create a high-end, custom laundry room, install kitchen cabinets around your washer and dryer. Stay on budget by buying inexpensive cabinets and upgrading them with contrasting, bright wall colors or wallpaper. Remove builder-grade hardware and replace it with custom drawer pulls. A versatile and contemporary drawer pull will uplevel your style and can work as a towel or hanger rack.

If your budget is tight, visit a restaurant supply shop’s used section. Stainless work tables and shelving are a solid modern laundry room idea and easy-to-install alternative to built-in cabinets.

4. Creative Washer and Dryer Mounting

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If you don’t have enough space to keep your washer and dryer side by side, stack them vertically. This is a great way to work with smaller spaces while still having a functional laundry area.

Another creative way to mount your washer and dryer is to lift them off the floor. Raising your washer and dryer makes it easier on the back by eliminating the need to bend over to load and unload the washer and dryer. Create a storage area in the space below the washer and dryer. This also leaves room to create a storage area in the space below the washer and dryer. Some washer and dryer manufacturers offer the raised storage unit in the matching appliance finish.

5. Extra Laundry Storage Ideas

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Wall cubicles, floating shelves, baskets and clothes bars are all good storage options in a laundry room.

Be sure to add a dirty laundry sorting system to save time when doing laundry. A good rule of thumb is to have a minimum of three dirty laundry bins for white or light clothes, and dark clothing. Don’t forget – asking everyone in the household to sort their own dirty laundry in the proper bin saves time.

6. Upgrade Lighting

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Laundry rooms are often located in dark or windowless spaces, so good lighting is important. Add under-cabinet lighting or a large, overhead fixture to brighten and enlarge the space. Good lighting also helps you find spots and stains on laundry items, so you can pre-treat before washing. Better yet, add a combination of lighting that includes canned ceiling lights, pendants and under cabinet lighting like the image above.

Beautiful lighting fixtures are not only practical, but they enhance the design of a laundry room.

7. Accessories That Hide Laundry

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A wall or cabinet mounted drop-down ironing board is a great way to hide clutter. Most designs not only hide the ironing board away, but have enough room for storing your iron and laundry supplies. 

A wall-mounted drying rack is another smart option for air drying delicates like lingerie or sweaters.

8. Interesting Patterned Walls

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Besides paint, give your laundry room a modern look by adding visual interest to the walls with pattern and texture. Two great ways to achieve this include:

–Wallpaper. Choose a bold, modern pattern in a moisture-resistant, vinyl paper that’s easy to wipe down
–Backsplash. Add a high-end backsplash design to your laundry room. While some of the most beautiful backsplash tile options can be expensive, a smaller laundry room doesn’t require much tile at all

9. Multi-Purpose Laundry Room Functionality

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If you have limited room, make your small laundry area a multi-use space. Multi-function laundry room ideas include:

–Craft room
–Mud room
–Sports equipment storage room
–Household cleaning supplies storage room

10. Converted Closet Laundry Space

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One of the most clever laundry room ideas is to convert a hall, home office or guest room closet into a laundry room.

Be sure to put up plenty of shelving and watch out for door clearances, so you can shut the doors when the laundry room is not in use.

Many of our laundry room ideas are easy DIY projects you can do in a weekend. Take a fresh look at your laundry area and see how you can upgrade yours to organize it better and add value to your home. What are your favorite ideas to try?

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Kitchen Layout Design Tips & Renovation Mistakes to Avoid

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Many of our home activities — cooking, cleaning, eating, drinking, socializing — take place in the kitchen. Which is why a beautiful and functional kitchen is so important. Regardless of your kitchen design style, organization and layout are key components. Take a look at these 10 renovation mistakes you should avoid and design tips to try, so you’ll end up with a practical and elegant kitchen design.

Before you get started, if you’re looking for a loan to create your dream kitchen, check out these personal loan options for nearly every credit type.

1. Kitchen Triangle Obstructions

Kitchen design professionals refer to the sink, stove and refrigerator as the kitchen triangle. It’s the area of greatest activity, so designing a kitchen triangle requires careful planning and unobstructed access. Of the three, the sink typically sees the most action, though your triangle should also have easy access to the stove and refrigerator, as well as your countertop workstations.

Obviously, your sink needs to be near the plumbing. Sometimes, because of the placement of the pipes, kitchens are designed with the sinks in a poor location. If this is the case in your kitchen, consider hiring a plumber to relocate the plumbing to accommodate the best placement for the sink.

Regardless of your kitchen’s size or layout (L-shaped, galley, U-shaped or island), the sum of all the legs in a work triangle should not be less than 10 feet or greater than 25 feet. If the work triangle is too small, people will be tripping over each other. If it’s too large, food preparation could be a tiring task.

2. Wasted Storage Space

Kitchens typically contain lots of stuff. Not only that, but items concealed behind kitchen cabinets can be oddly shaped and require extra space — think food processors or stand mixers. Finding a home for your appliances while keeping them easily accessible can be tricky.

Because built-ins are expensive and the overall size of the area may be limited, one big design mistake is not including enough storage. Even small kitchens have wasted space, but this can be minimized with smart kitchen renovation planning.

If your kitchen is small, consider installing extra-long upper cabinets with molding for extra storage space. Place lighting or greenery along the molding to draw the eyes up. Always install cabinets over the refrigerator. Not utilizing this area is a waste of storage space for large or seasonal kitchen items. Finally, install shelves across the backs of the lower kitchen cabinet. This could add up to 4 square feet of extra kitchen storage space.

3. Not Enough Counter Space

One of the biggest complaints about kitchen design is the lack of counter space. Considering all the kitchen activities that require a countertop, as well as appliances that are permanently located there, you want to fit as much open horizontal surface area in a kitchen as possible. An easy way to do this is by adding an island or breakfast bar to an L-shaped kitchen.

4. Bad Lighting

The kitchen is one room where you can’t afford to have poor lighting. It’s not just a matter of good design and atmosphere. Proper kitchen task lighting is safety is important when it comes to handling sharp knives and other kitchen tools. Plus, the more light you have in the room, the better you can show off your design elements.

Rooms generally need three types of lighting:

  • General lighting for overall illumination
  • Task lighting
  • Accent lighting

For your kitchen, evaluate the work areas and focus on providing each spot with the light it needs. Consider adding lighting directly above all the main work areas.

Use pendant lights or a series of mini-pendants to enhance the beauty and functionality of the kitchen. Pendants look great above kitchen sinks, while a series of mini-pendants work well over breakfast bars and kitchen islands. Install under-cabinet lighting to make sure that the counters have sufficient lighting for common kitchen tasks.

5. Skipping the Backsplash

When budgeting or designing a new kitchen or remodel, the backsplash sometimes slips to the end of the list. Or worse, it’s left out of the plan altogether. This may save you money in the short term, but in the long run it will cost you a lot of time and effort.

Think about all the steam, water and grease in the kitchen, and you’ll understand why installing a backsplash above the cooktop and counters is a smart way to keep your kitchen clean. It’s much easier to clean grease off a backsplash made of tile, metal or plastic than paint or wallpaper.

6. Poor Ventilation

The best kitchen design fades in the presence of stinky cooking odors. If you’ve ever walked into someone’s home and smelled last night’s fish lingering in the air, you’ll understand the importance of good ventilation.

Inexpensive range hoods simply circulate dirty, stale air, while a good ventilation system will improve the quality of your indoor air. It also helps keep your kitchen cleaner and extends the life of your appliances.

Although it can be a big investment, a good ventilation system makes cooking and dining more pleasant, especially if your kitchen opens to a living area or family room.

7. Choosing the Wrong Kitchen Island

When it comes to kitchen islands, we generally think of additional storage, preparation and serving space in the kitchen.  But you may be surprised to learn that kitchen islands can waste a lot of space. Choosing the wrong island or placing it in the wrong spot can be a mess, especially in a work area that gets overly cluttered.

Islands that obstruct the flow of traffic to and from the sink, refrigerator, stove and primary workstations will create bottlenecks. An island should be at least 4 feet long and 2 feet deep and it needs enough room for people to move and work around it. Kitchen renovation experts say that unless your kitchen is at least 8 feet deep and 12 feet long, you shouldn’t even consider an island.

8. Ignoring Your Recycling

As recycling becomes even more important, dealing with trash in kitchen design has gone beyond sticking a bin under the sink. Make a plan to manage your trash efficiently and responsibly — incorporate sorting bins for recyclables into your kitchen design.

9. Going Too Trendy

Although it’s not necessarily a mistake, the latest kitchen trends and high-end equipment may not be the best choices. Trendy colors and designs have a short lifespan, and you may never see a return on your large investments in the latest kitchenware. Look for kitchen innovations and appliances that are timeless.

10. Not Working with Kitchen Design Professionals

Starting a kitchen design project to save money is a common mistake; it can actually waste more money, time and energy if you do it wrong. Professional designers have the latest ideas and information, and they can help you identify your needs and translate them into an efficient plan that fits your taste and budget.

The post Kitchen Layout Design Tips & Renovation Mistakes to Avoid appeared first on Freshome.com.

10 Clever Interior Design Tricks to Transform Your Home

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Whether you’ve just moved or you’re looking for a quick home pick-me-up, we have some genius interior design tricks straight from the professionals. These tips are so easy, you can do them with little effort and cost.

Sometimes the smallest things make the greatest impact. It could be the addition of a mirror, a painting, a lamp or even a plant. Maybe you want to soften your walls, brighten a room, or add some warmth to your living space. Take a look at these clever design tips and see how they can inspire you!

1. Paint small rooms in soft, light colors

The living room above is a great example of how to maximize a small living space. A room this size has the tendency to seem cramped, but the large windows, light colored walls and strategic use of mirrors reflects the natural light pouring in from the doors and the windows. 

Here’s another classic interior decorating secret. Using mirrors gives the optical illusion of extra space, making a small room seem larger than it actually is. On the opposite end of the spectrum, painting a room with darker colors will make it feel smaller. Even with the abundance of natural light and the savvy placement of the mirrors, this room in a darker shade would have a more boxed-in feel to it.

2. Use decorative mirrors to add light

As you’ve seen, mirrors are great for making a small space feel larger. For larger rooms or a room with less natural light, placing mirrors directly across from the windows adds instant brightness. Decorative mirrors can also be used in lieu of art to fill empty wall space. Large or small, mirrors add light and dimension to your living space.

3. Mix patterns and textures, old and new, expensive and inexpensive

Don’t be afraid to mix it up! There’s nothing wrong with placing family heirlooms alongside your modern couch. All good interior decorators will tell you that the key goal for decorating your home is to create a design that reflects who you are, your personality and your style.

The antique Chippendale desk that was your grandfather’s tells a story. It tells the story of your past. The modern couch you fell in love with and simply had to purchase also tells a story, your present story, and there is no reason why the present and past can’t co-exist beautifully together.

The same can be said for art. Now you might not want to place a painting by Salvador Dali on the same wall next to a Monet, but there’s no reason why they can’t be in the same room together. A unique blend of furniture, rugs or pillows paired with varied colors and patterns can bring warmth and texture into your living space.

4. Try slipcovers to refresh your living room design

Need interior design ideas for your living room? Slipcovers often get a bad rap, but they’re a great way to change your furniture’s look to reflect the seasons. These easily removed coverings allow you to have a sophisticated look without constantly worrying about people and pets getting your living room furniture dirty. Slipcovers actually work great in any room, especially ones where your kids spend a lot of time! The white slip-covered couches shown above give the air of a casual, comfortable, easy and sophisticated elegance.

5. Add wicker baskets for extra storage

Wicker baskets, or baskets made from any material, are an economical and elegant way to add storage to any room. Baskets can be used to store and display books, architectural and decor magazines, toys, towels and blankets to name a few. Placing small wicker baskets filled with fruits and veggies on your countertop is a smart interior design trick for your kitchen. It doubles as storage and an eye-catching focal point.


6. Use what you have to decorate on a budget

Do you have any treasures tucked away that you’ve forgotten about? When your interior design needs accessories, take a good look at what you already have, instead of running to the home decor store. Here are some ideas to repurpose items you already have at home.

  • Place wooden, acrylic, metal or silver trays on top of carts, trunks, and bedside tables
  • Arrange candles with greenery on countertops and coffee tables
  • Hang your favorite plates to create custom wall art.
  • Frame art from children’s books for nurseries and children’s rooms
  • Stack your most beloved books to add a vertical design element

7. Hang a pot rack in your kitchen

We spend a lot of time in our kitchen preparing meals and entertaining, so it seems fitting that kitchen spaces deserve some interior design love. One of the best kitchen design tricks that’s functional and beautiful is to add a hanging pot rack.  

A hanging pot rack lets you display your cookware and frees up cabinet space. They come in many sizes and styles, so measure your kitchen space before you go shopping. Be sure to set aside a little extra money for those new pots and pans you’ll want to buy!

8. Go green with houseplants

Adding plants to your living space is an inexpensive way to accessorize by adding color and texture. Not only are plants beautiful, they can help clean the air in your house and control humidity. House plants keep your home healthy by absorbing pollutants and removing harmful gases from the air. Plus, they make your home feel more alive!

9. Paint or wallpaper your bookcases

When it comes to interior design ideas, adding a pop of color is a quick way to brighten and re-energize any room! A simple DIY project like painting a wall can instantly energize and transform your space. 

This built-in bookcase is basic and functional, but the bright blue interior brings it to life. One of the most affordable room design ideas that will transform a ho-hum space is to apply a coat of paint somewhere unexpected. Bookcases are an easy place to start, because you don’t need to paint a large area. Other fun places to add a pop of color include painting fireplace mantels, the insides of closets, hallways and ceilings.

10. Add area rugs to soften hardwood floors

Hardwood floors are easy to maintain, but they lack the comfort of carpeted floors, especially in the cooler months. A cozy home design trick is to add area rugs to your living space for extra warmth, texture, color and personality. 

Use throw rugs of varying patterns and fabrics to showcase your personal style. Or add several rugs of the same pattern and fabric, or different textures but the same color. The possibilities are endless. 

You can change your area rugs to reflect the seasons, using warmer tones and fabrics for winter and lighter ones for summertime. There are family-friendly washable area rugs that are ideal for homes with children. 

What inspired you? Personally, I adore these animal-hide rugs as an unexpected interior design element.

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Bedroom Paint Color Ideas: What’s Your Color Personality?

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Have you noticed how color can affect your mood? When considering bedroom paint ideas, the right bedroom paint color choice will make a huge difference in how you feel.

Famous psychotherapist Carl Jung pioneered the concept of color psychology. He was interested in colors’ properties and meanings and believed that colorful art had the potential as a tool for psychotherapy.

Although there are rules on what colors are best for a bedroom, each person has their own preferences and tastes. You may be attracted to an unexpected color that has qualities you need more of in your life. Forget the traditional rules. Pick a color you love and paint your bedroom walls, ceiling, trim, furniture, or anything that makes you happy.

Bedroom Paint Ideas and Techniques

Painting your bedroom is an inexpensive way to personalize your bedroom’s style. To maximize your bedroom paint design, paint more than just the walls.  You can paint any spot from the bedroom ceiling to the floor. Here are some decorating ideas that use paint to take your bedroom to the next level:

Wall Molding

If you’re feeling adventurous, add depth to a wall by attaching wall molding in rectangular or square shapes before painting. The wall molding adds a unique dimensional effect to your bedroom. For contrast, choose a different paint color for the molding.
molding

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Stripes and Patterns

For a dramatic effect, try painting a stripe or several on your walls. Stripes don’t have to be uniform or always vertical. A stripe can run horizontally or in a pattern.
dual-stripe

Metallic Wall Paint

If your room is naturally dark, metallic paints add a warm sheen to your walls. They require several coats to apply but are worth the final effect. You can find easy-to-use metallic paints in a variety of colors. The wall in the image below is painted in a metallic steel paint color.

metallic-paint

Paint the Ceiling

Painting your bedroom ceiling can create more visual interest. For a bold look, paint your bed’s headboard wall as a continuous line that carries up to the ceiling, forming a canopy effect like the image below, or add stripes to the ceiling like the black and white bedroom below.

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striped-ceiling

Lighting Effect

A simple DIY project that makes a big impact in a painted bedroom is a wall dimmer switch. Dimmers are inexpensive and help create the right lighting to enhance your mood. Being able to brighten or dim a room on demand is especially helpful if you’ve painted your bedroom walls in a bold color.

What Bedroom Paint Colors Say About You

Look at the colors below and choose your favorite. We’re going to take a look at what your color choice says about your personality or what you may need more of in your life.

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Grey

If you chose grey as your favorite, you like minimalist design and the latest high-tech gadgets. You’re hard working and need a bedroom where you can recharge. Luckily, grey is not only the top contemporary paint color shade of the moment, grey walls are soothing and restful.

grey-room

Yellow

If you’re attracted to yellow, you’re a perfectionist and a dreamer. Highly intellectual, you have a great mind for abstract topics and business. You’re highly charismatic and make people feel at ease in your company. Choosing yellow says you need to give yourself more time to relax, think and dream.

If you’re not sure about painting your entire bedroom bright yellow, try these tips:

–Only paint one wall yellow
—Go for gold to create a rich, inviting bedroom
—Use yellow as an accent color for bedding or accessories

yellow-bedroom

Orange

Orange lovers are highly social and fearless. You love adventure, travel and meeting people. Orange bedroom walls are warm and invoke enthusiasm. It’s one of the top colors of choice in contemporary design. If you’re drawn to orange, it’s time to add some fun to your life (and bedroom walls).

orange-room

Blue

Blue may come in a variety of color tones, but most blue lovers have something in common: a need for peace and harmony. If you chose blue, you’re loyal, have lifelong friends and like a routine. Blue fans tend to prefer a space that is clean and organized, so be sure to not only paint your walls, but also add a little extra storage and organization to your bedroom. You’ll feel more at home and rested in a peaceful, uncluttered blue bedroom.

 

turqupose

Mocha

Choosing mocha means you’re down-to-earth and honest. Reliable and confident, people are drawn to your genuine self. You appreciate the simple luxuries of life and love decorating your home. Being drawn to the color mocha may be telling you that you need to slow down and enjoy more time in nature.

mocha-room

Black

If black is your color choice, you’re mysterious and sultry. Prestige and power are important to you. You’re strong, independent and in control. People who are attracted to black love privacy — black is the perfect color for the protected, intimate space of your bedroom. If you chose black, ask yourself if you need to set more boundaries in your personal and work relationships to feel balanced and in control.

black-room

Green

If green was your color choice, you’re easy to get along with, patient and steer clear of drama. Green is considered the most relaxing color. There are many shades of green available, all of which can create a stress-free environment. Is your life a little chaotic lately? That may be the reason you’ve chosen green. Embrace it and create a calm, zen bedroom.

If you also want an environmentally green room, choose interior paints that are low-VOC and chemical free.

green-room

Using color therapy in your bedroom is as simple as painting the walls. If you’re considering bold colors and want to ease into things, start small. Paint a single wall, add stripes or use the chosen color as your accent color. Share with us, what color personality did you choose?

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Kid-Friendly Flooring Guide for Parents

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Reflooring your home can be a challenge when you have young children. You want a floor type that not only looks great but also keeps your kids safe and stands up to all their little messes. Check out this graphic to discover how you can reconcile these goals and how each type of floor could satisfy your family’s aesthetic and functional needs.

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