Daniel ShenSmith

Think Wallpaper is Outdated? It Can Actually Update Your Bathroom

November 8, 2018 by admin

Wallpaper. Just the sight or sound of that word usually evokes 18^th Century scenic or floral images or, worse, the gaudy, headache-inducing designs that were widely – and wildly – popular in the 1970s. However, wallpaper is making a comeback. Maybe “reincarnation” is a better word since, thankfully, the new trend in wallpaper looks radically different from the styles of yesteryear.

In fact, wallpaper can actually be used in the bathroom to create glamour, elegance, drama and even fun. Below are some of the various options to consider:

Half-Wall Application

This gold and white wallpaper helps to create a luxurious bathroom. Image: Moen

You don’t have to wallpaper the entire bathroom. Used sparingly, like the wallpaper applied below the chair rail molding in the photo above, it can still create a powerful impression. “Wallpaper done tastefully can add character to any room, especially bathrooms and bedrooms,” says Angela Williams, a Birmingham, AL-based realtor at Extreme Agent Realty. “I don’t suggest papering an entire room, but accent walls are trendy,” Williams says.

Updated Classic

A stylish powder room in a Wellington, FL home. Image: Pegasus Builders

The clean lines of this classic plaid wallpaper work well in this design. Always order extra wallpaper, just in case you need to replace a section and the manufacturer has stopped making that particular style (or has gone out of business).

Another bathroom in the same home. Image: Pegasus Builders

In both bathrooms, the wallpaper is tasteful and doesn’t overwhelm the senses.

A classic Victorian bathroom. Image: Great Neighborhood Homes

In this bathroom, wallpaper adds more interest than mere paint would.

Glam

A Minneapolis bathroom with bling. Martha O’Hara Interiors

This hand-painted, patterned wallpaper brings out the metal in the console, sconces and faucet. When combined with the chandelier, it creates a glitzy bathroom design. “Wallpaper has really transformed over the last decade,” explains Kimberly Schmunk, an interior designer at Focus Builders. “There are several new designers that have a variety of fresh and graphic designs and textures.”

A London spa bathroom. Image: Gemma Zimmerhansl Interior Design

The wallpaper adds just the right amount of sparkle in this master bathroom in London.

Understated

The wallpaper blends into the background in this Miami home. Image: Krista + Home

The aqua linen wallpaper in this Miami master bath complements the grays and whites in the design.

Dramatic

This aptly named circus mural design is unforgettable. Image: Malcolm Duffin Design

If you have a flair for the dramatic, you can definitely express it in a beautiful and vibrant wallpapered ceiling. This particular design is called Circus Mural and is made up of several strips of wallpaper. “I am a big fan of mural wallpaper or ‘photo wallpaper,’ which is wallpaper on a very large scale,” Schmunck says. Other popular types of wall murals and photo wallpapers include such options as brick effects, marble, underwater images, sports themes and graffiti.

Whimsical

This bathroom is the location of at least one of the three Rs. Image: Angela Gutekunst

This wallpaper design is an ode to the fact that many people spend most of their reading time in the bathroom.

However, keep in mind that Williams isn’t the only realtor not completely sold on the merits of wallpaper. “In my experience, wallpaper, while not a deal breaker, generally affects a sale adversely,” says Sheila Trichter, an agent at Warburg Realty. “The first thing many buyers ask is, ‘How expensive and difficult is it to remove the wallpaper?’ No matter how beautiful.”

Mark Ferguson, a real estate agent, investor and the author and creator of Investfourmore.com, agrees. “I have never been a fan of wallpaper and that may be because it is such a pain to take off and we have to remove a lot of it,” he says. “I have seen it start to come back and I think it is crazy – I would not put it in a house I was rehabbing because I think it would only appeal to a small portion of the population.”

Peel and Stick

Tempaper provides the freedom to change your mind. Image: Soft Surrounds

If you think you might want to try a wallpaper design in your bathroom, but you’re not sure if you’ll like it or not, you might be more comfortable using removable wallpaper. Since you just peel off the back and stick the paper on the wall, it’s easy to remove or reposition it.

The post Think Wallpaper is Outdated? It Can Actually Update Your Bathroom appeared first on Freshome.com.

Decorating With Orange: 25 Ideas Using Apricot, The Hottest Hue This Fall

November 8, 2018 by admin

Apricot, pale terracota and salmon are the most common names for the hottest hue of orange this fall. The on-trend color is a lighter, earthier version of the standard orange. It’s blended with white or brown to create a color that’s not quite the vibrant pumpkin shade you normally see in the fall, but still very fresh and autumnal.

decorating with orange and apricot paint

Layers of various salmon, terracotta and tangerine textiles and pillows, paired with sage, add a warm and modern look to any room. Image: Jill Wolff Design

Here are fresh decorating with orange ideas using the new apricot color trend:

Fall And Thanksgiving Table Decorating With Orange

decorating with orange and salmon color decor

An elegant holiday table features off-white pumpkins and china, sage-toned eucalyptus leaves and a combination of floral and copper glasses in apricot hues. Image: Maison de Pax

A plaid tablecloth in greys and salmon is the perfect backdrop for a Thanksgiving pumpkin tablescape. Image: Ciao Newport Beach

Adding Salmon Accessories To Your Room

A Scandinavian modern dining room feels warmer than the everyday white look thanks to salmon and apricot accents, like the lamps and suede dining chairs. Image: Scandinavian Homes

Mid-century modern patterns and textiles feature a combination of terracotta, salmon and greys. Image: Dwell

An understated, white living room gets a warming up for fall with a couple of salmon-colored throw pillows and vases. Image: Elle Decoration UK

Salmon is the perfect accompanying color with another on-trend color: sage. Image: Beth Bourque Design

A graphic-patterned rug in apricot is one of the best and simplest decorating with orange ideas. Image: Surya

scandinavian design featuring peach, apricot and salmon decor

Small splashes of terracotta and apricot in a minimalist white room add an unexpected, lively tone to the space. To add more of a fall or holiday feeling, replace plants and greens with berry twigs and arrangements featuring sunflowers and fall leaves. Image: Gravity Home

To add warmth and luxury to a space for the holidays, choose apricot textiles and pillows in soft fabrics like velvet and chenille. Image: This Old House

Layering Salmon Or Apricot With Other Colors

Salmon, apricot or muted tangerine pair very well with vintage aqua, as you can see in this open floor plan home. Image: Content Modern

Muted apricot layers well with other related fall and holiday colors like brick and deep burgundies. Image: Dulux

Vintage mod sofas in apricot add fun to a neutral, muted steel living room. Image: EnviDesign

An Apricot Christmas

You can work salmon, apricot and terracotta into your Christmas decorating, too, by choosing accessories in the fresh, new color. Images: Craftberry Bush

Dreamy Pale Terracotta And Apricot Bedrooms

You don’t have to change your whole bedroom to warm it up for fall and the holidays. A throw blanket, pillow and some wall art in a new color like pale terracotta is all you need. Image: Habitech Systems

Terracotta and grey are a natural pairing for fall. Image: DK Interiors

Pale apricot sometimes needs a boost of richer tones of the color, like an exotic rug featuring the light apricot shade and deeper tones of salmon and terracotta. Image: Leivars

Choose textiles and materials featuring apricot that are heavily patterned and textured to create a global-chic look. Image: Black Lacquer Design

Apricot and Salmon Paint Colors

The rich, pale terracotta shade on the walls adds an intimate and global-chic vibe to this sitting room. Image: Dulux

decorating with orange and terracotta paints

Paint the section over your fireplace in a bolder version of the salmon hue for a striking focal point. Image: Elle Decoration UK

The dividing wall in this mid-century home was painted in a matte but vibrant apricot shade. Image: Nick Noyes Architecture

The earthy feel of the new terracotta is best when painted in a matte finish. Velvet accent pillows add a touch of luxury to the room. Image: Benjamin Moore

Kitchen cabinets painted in the new apricot color will look fresh and modern year-round. Image: Honestly Designed

Change up a traditional white farmhouse kitchen by painting the floating island in a vivid salmon or muted coral color. Image: House Beautiful

Would you try decorating with orange like these softer, earthier hues for fall? Or do you like a brighter orange tone? Check out some ideas of ways to decorate with primary orange.

The post Decorating With Orange: 25 Ideas Using Apricot, The Hottest Hue This Fall appeared first on Freshome.com.

24 Thanksgiving Table Runners That Can Add Flair to Your Table

November 7, 2018 by admin

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For as little as $18, you can transform your holiday table with a Thanksgiving table runner. You don’t have to go all out with fine china, pumpkins, leaves and a forest wonderland (although that would be pretty cool). All you need is a dining table, countertop or coffee table and one of these table runners. Layer as much or as little as you want to add Thanksgiving flair.

Once you add a table runner, consider layering your table setting with candles, dishes and a centerpiece. The more the merrier this holiday season. And the more delightful your table will look!

The foundation of your festive Thanksgiving table is the table runner. Add as much or as little as you like. Runner: Crate & Barrel Autumn Leaves Runner, $70

Thanksgiving table runners with an exotic or boho-chic vibe

Boho-chic and far-flung or folksy patterns are the biggest trend of 2018. Why not mix earthy Thanksgiving spice colors with sumptuous exotic patterns like the ones below? The combo is stunning.

Thanksgiving table runners featuring plaid

Plaid will always be a classic pattern for the holidays. Go with earth tones like browns, spices and mustard colors at Thanksgiving. Or for a modern take on the classic, choose buffalo checks or plaids in grey, black and white.

A lush Thanksgiving table setting featuring an earthy plaid table runner by Threshold from Target, $18.

Farmhouse-chic table runners

Natural materials like linen and burlap in soft, understated colors are the perfect table runner choice for a farmhouse-style Thanksgiving table. Image: Elle Decor

Thanksgiving table runners for a little bling

A little sparkle or shine goes a long way in adding a festive feel to your Thanksgiving table. These runners vary from very subtle metallic thread or embroidery – to bold metallic or beaded patterns.

Love the idea of a Thanksgiving table runner? You can run one down the middle of the table or arrange two or more across the table as a shared place setting for guests sitting across from each other. Don’t forget to add colorful coordinating paper or linen napkins for the occasion.

The post 24 Thanksgiving Table Runners That Can Add Flair to Your Table appeared first on Freshome.com.

Hosting Thanksgiving: Top Picks from Our Freshome Team

November 7, 2018 by admin

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The holiday hullabaloo has begun. If you’re the one hosting Thanksgiving this year, you might be feeling a small tinge of stress about your upcoming entertaining. Of course, there’s the fairly daunting task of getting such a large-scale meal to table. But that’s not your only concern. You want every single friend and family member who walks through your door to feel simultaneously welcomed and wowed.

It sounds like a lot, but don’t sweat. We tapped our entire team of writers at Freshome to give you some ideas to make this year your most memorable Thanksgiving ever. Our team of home design experts has rounded up a manageable list of must-haves for hosting Thanksgiving. Grab these items and you’ll be well on your way to a beautiful, bountiful celebration with your loved ones.

Set the scene for a memorable evening with candlelight. Image: HGTV

Candles

Creating the ideal Thanksgiving dinner comes down to a few things: good food, good company and good ambiance. You can create the last with a lot of effort – or you can use lighting to make your dining area feel magical. Candles are a fantastic way to create a warm setting that feels special and doesn’t require a lot of work to set up. Taper candles and tea lights are great options that leave plenty of room on your table for your centerpiece and serving dishes. Or, if you want to go for a bigger impact element, you can opt for something like this eye-catching Centerpiece Candle from West Elm.

However you choose to incorporate candles, don’t forget to light them as guests arrive. Here’s a tip from our Freshome team. Task someone who probably won’t help much in the kitchen with this chore. It’s a great way to get someone like a teen or football-loving adult involved in hosting Thanksgiving and prevents you from having to stress about a last-minute to-do.

With a platter, you can present your food beautifully without any additional work in the kitchen. Image: Crate & Barrel

Serving platter

When it comes to Thanksgiving, the focus is on the food. With all eyes on the dishes you bring out of the kitchen, you want to present them in an attractive way. That could mean spending extra time on the presentation of the food itself, but with all the work you’re already going to be doing in the kitchen, that can be taxing. Instead, simply put the food on a large, beautiful platter. We love this Antique Brass Leaf Platter from Williams Sonoma as a way to take your table to the next level.

If you’re looking for a platter that will work in every season but can still add some fall warmth to your Thanksgiving table, our Freshome team loves wood. The Tondo Serverware collection from Crate & Barrel comes in a variety of sizes and shapes to help you beautifully present every dish.

Natural decor makes it easy to set an impressive table when hosting Thanksgiving. Image: Amanda Carol Interiors

Natural table decor

Ah, the Thanksgiving centerpiece. The crowning glory of your table at the upcoming holiday. But you already have to create enough storage in your home for other holiday decorations. We get that carving out even more storage for a bounty of Thanksgiving table decor – which you’ll realistically use one, maybe two, times each year – isn’t a priority. And it doesn’t have to be! Our writers have found a workaround.

To fill out our tables when hosting Thanksgiving, we turn to natural options. Gourds and pumpkins are classics that set a seasonal tone. Don’t be afraid to incorporate less common additions like lemons or halved figs, too. And if you’re looking for a high-impact centerpiece, turn to the classic: fresh flowers. A bouquet of blooms in seasonal hues livens up your table and delivers both a high-end and homey feel.

A table runner – especially one with a textured edge – can establish your tablescape. Image: Cost Plus World Market

Table linens

If you want to add depth and visual interest to your Thanksgiving table without it looking cluttered, turn to table linens. At Freshome, we love table runners for the holiday. They’re a great way to add both structure and softness to your table without the stuffiness of a full-blown tablecloth. Plus, if you’ve got a beautiful table, this is the time to show off this piece of furniture!

And if you really want your table linens to pack a punch, mix textures. Smooth napkins with a rough-edged runner – like the Khadi Runner from World Market – give your table depth. The mixed textures call to your guests’ tactile senses, inviting them to sit at the table and feel all the different textures.

If you’re looking for some inspiration to help you pick the perfect table linens, we’ve got you covered. Here is a roundup of Thanksgiving table decorating ideas.

Don’t forget the plates and glasses! Image: Pottery Barn

More picks for hosting Thanksgiving

Of course, you can’t have a proper dinner party without dishes and glasses. We love mixing and matching your seasonal dinnerware with your normal sets to give your table some flair. Plus, combining your different sets makes it easier to find enough plates and bowls to serve your large gathering. If you don’t already have fall plates to pull out, these Harvest Pumpkin Salad Plates from Pottery Barn are a great addition to your cabinets.

And don’t forget to add drink receptacles. We love large wine glasses (check out these goblets from Williams Sonoma) and classic coupes (you can grab them at Target) so your guests can liberally enjoy the libations.

Do you really want to make Thanksgiving a breeze? One of our writers has a surefire tip for you. Get it catered!

Happy Thanksgiving from our family here at Freshome to yours. We hope you have a wonderful holiday season – and that we’ve made it a little bit easier on you.

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Dealing with Asthma and Allergy Triggers in Your Home

November 6, 2018 by admin

Identifying the source of the allergens that may be plaguing your home is key to dealing with issues they cause your family. Source: Artistic Renovations Ohio

What you can’t see, can hurt you – especially if you or your family suffer from asthma or allergies. Dust, smoke, pet dander, lint, pollen and other asthma and allergy triggers can make your home an unhealthy place.

Particles in your air can include tree pollen, grass and weed pollen, mold spores, dust mites and pet dander. They are all potential triggers for asthma and allergy attacks. Dust, smoke and bacteria are often .3 microns or less. At that size, allergens can get deep into your lungs because they aren’t filtered well by your nose and throat. Luckily, there are things you can do to improve the air quality of your home. Use these tips to help your friends and family breathe easy when they’re in your home.

Maintaining a healthy home often involves frequent cleaning rituals and having the best allergen-beating systems in place. Source: Bunch Design

6 ways to manage asthma and allergy triggers in your home

Control dust mites: Use anti-dust mite covers and wash your sheets in hot water at least once a week.
Stay smoke-free: Avoid non-ventilated, smoky rooms and second-hand smoke.
Avoid pet dander: Keep pets off the furniture, out of the bedroom, and if necessary, consider taking the pet out of the home.
Close doors and windows: Keeping windows and doors shut helps reduce the amount of outdoor pollens, allergens and irritants inside your home.
Regularly change your air filters: Regularly changing out your home’s air filters helps reduce a number of problematic particles in your air.
Install a whole-house air cleaner: A whole home air cleaning system can help remove airborne particles and allergens too small for your nose and mouth to filter naturally. They offer you an additional level of protection beyond air filters.

How do whole-home air cleaners work?

A whole-home air cleaner helps to filter and remove some of the smallest airborne particles and allergens. These can be ones that a regular air filter might miss. But how does it work?

First, the pre-filter traps the large particles your home circulates through your heating or cooling system. Next, it charges and collects smaller particles. Multiple small electrical fields, rather than a single charged metal wire or plate, allow for more airborne contaminants to be collected than in traditional electronic air cleaner systems. Finally, it collects the smallest particles. With each layer of collection elements only .08 inches apart, an air cleaner can trap particles down to .1 micron in size.

Additionally, you can reduce the allergens outside your home by planting allergy-friendly flowers in your garden.

Make your home a healthier, happier place by adding a few air quality tips to your cleaning routine. To learn more about improving the air quality in your home, contact an air-quality expert today.

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What’s Trending in Bathroom Design? The National Kitchen + Bath Association Reveals All

November 6, 2018 by admin

Traditional bathroom designs are taking a back seat to a more spa-like, clean and minimal look, according to the National Kitchen + Bath Association (NKBA). The organization queried hundreds of designers, remodelers, architects, manufacturers and dealers to discover the trends in bathroom styles, sinks and tubs, cabinets, lighting, flooring, colors and other elements.

Freshome asked trend spotter Elle H-Millard, Certified Kitchen Designer and Industry Relations Manager at the NKBA, for photos and comments on key design trends in U.S. bathrooms. Here are the NKBA bathroom design trends you should know.

The most popular bathroom styles

A transitional bathroom. Image: NKBA

According to H-Millard, both transitional and contemporary styles are popular in bathrooms. “Transitional bathrooms have clean and classic lines, with painted walls and wood cabinetry,” she says. Undermount sinks, brushed nickel and cool color palettes are also features of the transitional style.

A contemporary bathroom. Image: NKBA

“The uptick in soaking tubs lends itself to a more sculptural feel, giving rise to the contemporary look,” H-Millard says. Features include frameless cabinetry and porcelain tile. “Also, larger surface areas in the bath make it easier to clean, making both transitional and contemporary popular.”

Trends in cabinets

A freestanding vanity with creative storage options. Image: NKBA

Freestanding vanities, wood vanities, linen storage cabinets and open shelving are the most popular types of storage options. Medicine cabinets, console tables and toilet-topper cabinets – not so much.

Trends in surfaces

A bathroom with soft blue painted walls. Image: NKBA

Quartz is far and away the most popular choice for countertops, with granite a distant second and marble/cultured marble an even more distant third. “Another runaway favorite is porcelain tile floors, followed by ceramic tile and stone floor,” H-Millard explains.

When choosing a wall surface, paint is the most popular option, although porcelain tile is also popular. Ceramic tile is a distant third.

Sinks and faucets

The trending porcelain sink. Image: NKBA

Undermount sinks are almost twice as popular as an integrated sink/countertop or a vessel sink. “The preference for porcelain sinks is significantly higher than the desire to use glass or decorative metal,” H-Millard says.

Regarding faucets, brushed nickel, satin nickel and polished chrome are in a virtual dead heat.

Trends in bathtubs

A white acrylic bathtub. Image: NKBA

Acrylic is the most popular bathtub material, followed by cast iron and fiberglass. “By far, the most popular configuration is free-standing, compared to a skirted or platform configuration,” H-Millard says. In terms of bathtub fixture colors, white is the overwhelming favorite, although silver/gray is gaining popularity. Beige/bisque/bone/almond is only preferred by a small percentage.

Trends in sustainability

A bathroom featuring sustainable materials. Image: NKBA

The most popular trends in sustainability are LED light bulbs, followed by energy-efficient vent fans and low-flow toilets.

Trends in master vs. second/guest bathrooms

Multiple shower options. Image: NKBA

A handheld showerhead paired with a mounted showerhead is the top feature in a master bathroom, followed by a freestanding tub and a soaking tub. “In second or guest bathrooms, a smaller percentage list having a handheld shower (in addition to a mounted showerhead) as the top feature,” H-Millard says. However, instead of a freestanding tub, a standard tub with shower surround is more popular. “The third most popular feature in the second/guest bathroom is water saving shower fittings,” she says.

Other trends in bathroom design elements

Soft colors in a relaxing bathroom. Image: NKBA

The most popular bathroom color schemes are whites and off-whites, grays and blues. Lighting in the shower is the top lighting trend, followed by recessed lighting and sconces. Radiant floor heating is also popular, along with towel warmers and steam showers.

Emerging trends

A wet room. Image: NKBA

“The wet room, using the linear drain, is an emerging trend in the bathroom,” H-Millard says. If you’re not familiar with this term, in a wet room, there isn’t a shower enclosure. The entire bathroom (or, in other cases, the entire shower and tub area) is considered the shower enclosure. H-Millard notes the two-person, spa-like statement shower is another emerging trend.

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10 Hostess Gift Ideas Under $25

November 6, 2018 by admin

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Doesn’t it feel like summer was just here? And yet somehow, the holiday season is already kicking into high gear. Don’t ask us how we got here, but it’s time to prep for one of the most fun, busy times of the year. With so much going on during the weeks ahead, stress is inevitable. On top of all the other gifts you have to buy this time of year, it’s easy to forget to bring a little something when you’re invited to a holiday party. But a small token of appreciation can go a long way. We’ve got you covered with 10 hostess gift ideas under $25. Consider it our holiday gift to you.

Give a modern spin on fresh flowers with these vases. Image: CB2

Von geometric vases

Flowers are a thoughtful hostess gift – until you realize you’ve just added another task to your host’s to-do list. Now, on top of taking coats and pouring drinks, they’ve also got to get those bad boys into some fresh water. Be a part of the solution, not a part of the problem: Leave your host with a beautiful gift that will far outlast fresh flowers by presenting them in a Von Geometric Vase ($13 each). Metallic and modern, these vases are a perfect addition to any home’s decor. And, because their mouths are small, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg on a large bouquet.

No refill needed! If you’re looking for hostess gift ideas that get the party started, this is just the thing. Image: Brookstone

Guzzle buddy wine glass

When you’re rushing from event to event during the holidays, it’s common practice to pick up a bottle of wine en route to present to the event host. And, let’s be honest, with the stress of hosting during the holidays, they will probably need a little liquid therapy. So why not contribute a playful complement to the inevitable bounty of bottles your host will receive? The Guzzle Buddy Wine Glass ($20) is a conversation-starter – and a gift your host just might end up leaning on during this busy time of year.

Give a gift that will keep on giving every time your hostess entertains. Image: Cost Plus World Market

Charcuterie cutting board

If your host is crazy enough to throw a party during the holidays, they probably entertain on a regular basis. It can become tiring to constantly have to come up with new and interesting finger foods to set out at a party. That’s why a charcuterie board or cheese plate is a favorite – just rotate in whichever items caught your eye during your last trip to the grocery store. Give your host a beautiful place to display said food by presenting them with a sheesham wood (also known as Indian Rosewood) charcuterie cutting board ($25). It has an eye-catching shape, and the hole at the top makes it easy to hang out of the way when it’s not in use.

A tea set gives your host something they can use for a quiet moment before tackling cleanup. Image: Le Creuset

Tea set

Have we harped enough on the stress of the holiday season? When searching for hostess gift ideas, you’ll see a lot of alcohol-based suggestions. And while those are probably most welcome, they’re not the healthiest way to deal with the social heat of the holidays. Pair a couple of teaspoons ($6) and this tea bag holder ($9) with some of your favorite tea for a gift that invites your host to practice some healthy self-care after the party. These items come in a wide range of colors so you can get something that truly fits your host.

These cherries are a game-changer – and the perfect gift for any host who loves to whip up craft cocktails. Image: Williams Sonoma

Luxardo maraschino cherries

Treat your host to something delicious and help them simultaneously step up their cocktail game. You might think a jar of cherries is a weird gift, but the difference between these Luxardo Maraschino Cherries ($20) and the maraschinos you’re used to in your Shirley Temple is astronomical. Think Rolls Royce versus a second-hand unicycle – really. For the host who loves to make craft cocktails and is always experimenting with new recipes, this is an ideal gift.

Show up to the party with a touch of magic in hand with this bottle stopper. Image: CB2

Unicorn bottle stopper

Sprinkle a little magic on your host or hostess this holiday season. This iridescent Unicorn Bottle Stopper ($10) is equal parts youthful, elegant and affordable. And, as we mentioned, your host is sure to have plenty of wine bottles in which to use it this holiday season. When the holidays are over and the wine runs out, it could be a fun addition to a bar cart’s decor or a conversation starter atop a crystal decanter.

Jingle all the way to the party with this gift in tow. Image: Pottery Barn

Jingle bell bottle opener

When you’re hunting for hostess gift ideas, it’s natural to seek out ones that spread some seasonal cheer. The problem? A lot of them are ho-ho-hokey. But not this beautiful Jingle Bell Bottle Opener ($13). With an eye-catching brass sheen, this opener is equal parts seasonal decor and useful bar addition. Come on, you’ve been at the party where people couldn’t find an opener and ended up using the countertop. Protect your hosts’ home and help them celebrate the season with this small-but-impactful gift.

This gift keeps hands free from garlic smell and makes cleanup a snap. Image: Sur La Table

Garlic rocker

When you’re cooking and the recipe calls for garlic, a freshly minced clove is a must. It’s also a huge hassle. Sure, a garlic press can take some of the work out of the process, but then you’re inevitably stuck trying to clear the leftover bits from your press before they cement in place. Make your host’s future food prep simpler by presenting them with this Garlic Rocker ($15). With a few presses of the palm, you’ve got a beautifully minced clove without the daunting cleanup. Plus, you protect your host from odorous hands. The rocker captures the minced pieces in its shallow bowl so you can easily dump them into any dish.

Help your hosts protect their holiday table linens with a bottle coaster. Image: Williams Sonoma

Marble wine coaster

Are you sensing a theme? Wine is a key player in a number of the best hostess gift ideas. Help your hosts protect their tables by adding a sleek, stately marble wine coaster ($20) into the mix. It’s a pretty addition to any centerpiece and it gives people a place to put those pesky bottles of red that inevitably drip and leave rings as the night wears on. No one wants to see their nice holiday linens stained. Help them help their guests keep a tidy table by bringing this thoughtful gift with you.

Help your host find some respite during this busy time of year with a little detox gift set. Image: West Elm

Activated charcoal gift set

During the holiday season, finding time to unwind is key. Treat your host to a mini spa setup with this Activated Charcoal Detox Gift Set ($25) from Little Seed. This set comes with an activated charcoal farmstead milk soap bar that’s handmade with goat’s milk from Little Seed’s family farm in Tennesse. It’s paired with a detox scrub – and who couldn’t use a little detox this time of year? Heck, you might just need to grab one for yourself while you’re at it.

What’s your favorite hostess gift to give? Have you ever received one that really blew you away? Share your thoughts in the comments so we can all get some additional hostess gift ideas to make this holiday season a little simpler.

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Underutilized Spaces: Getting the Most Out of Your Home

November 5, 2018 by admin

Let’s face it: some of the areas of your home can feel like an afterthought. After all, it’s not like you’ll be showing your linen closets off to your guests. But just because a space isn’t Pinterest-worthy doesn’t mean it should be any less functional. In fact, some of the underutilized spaces in your home can actually become the most useful. By thinking outside of the box, you can turn what seems like wasted space and dusty corners into your favorite places in your home. Here are some ideas to help you look at every nook and cranny a little differently.

Use stair space as a play area. Image: Elena Del Bucchia Design

The Space Under the Stairs

The space under the stairs is typically ignored or drywalled. But, with the right repurposing, it’s valuable square footage. Before you opt to drywall that empty area, consider making it into a kids’ play area. It might not be a great space for adults, but it’s the perfect area to set up with toy storage, or even to create a playhouse.

No kids? The space under the stairs can make an ideal mini-library. Installing simple shelves means your favorite books stay dry, organized and easily accessible.

Turn a messy mudroom into a homework space. Image: Jim Schmid

The Mudroom

The mudroom is one of those spaces that you can’t live without – but don’t really want to see. It can become a dumping ground for backpacks, coats and shoes, so put it to work: rearrange to create a homework nook. If your kids tend to dump their backpacks there anyway, a small desk with supplied and dedicated study space makes sense. It’ll keep the endless papers and pencils out of your main living space and give kids a quiet place to work that’s still close to the action.

Keep blankets and sheets at the foot of each bed. Image: JCD Custom Homes

The Foot of the Bed

There’s nothing like your own bed – unless it’s the foot of your own bed. This underutilized space is ideal for solving storage problems, especially if your home is short on closet space. A hinged ottoman becomes the perfect place to put on shoes and can help stash away blankets, sheets, clothes and any other quick-access items. Or, add a desk and chair for study space that won’t fit on any of your walls. Rethink the space at the foot of your bed as functional square footage and it becomes more than just a place for your socks.

Double up by using your guest room as an office. Image: California Closets

The Guest Room

If you’re lucky enough to have a dedicated guest room, you know how great the space can be. But while it’s an ideal place for friends and family to crash, it can sometimes go unused. Instead of keeping one room as just a guest space, double up on functionality so you can use it when you’re home solo.

Turn your guest room into a sleek office part of the time, or store craft supplies in the guest room closet for when you’re feeling creative. There’s no reason to leave an entire room unused except for when you have house guests. Be a little selfish and use the room for yourself the rest of the time.

Think beyond linens for functional storage. Image: ClosetMaid

The Linen Closet

Most people would say the linen closet is one of the most underrated spaces in a home. But that doesn’t mean you have to fill it with linens and blankets. If you’re able to store extra blankets in bins underneath each bed, you’ll free up an entire closet for things that make more sense to you. Whether it’s outfitting your linen closet as bathroom storage for products and towels or making over your closet as a storage pantry, think beyond sheets when rethinking your linen closet.

Look up for great storage space. Image: Ike Kligerman Barkley

The Space Over Doors

Look up! The space over each door in your home is a treasure trove for storage and decor. With simple shelving solutions, you’ll find a totally new space to store books or to show off souvenirs and decor items that don’t have a home elsewhere. Simple, straight shelving is easy to install and remove and can add plenty of character to an otherwise stark hallway.

Think of your garage as a multifunction space. Image: Garage Solutions

The Garage

Bikes, trikes and tools: oh my! The typical garage is a catch-all space for anything you don’t want in your house. But it can also be valuable space for other interests. With the right storage solutions, you can get larger items off the ground, opening up precious square footage.

Store bins up in your garage trusses to get rarely used items out of the way. Then, use wall hooks to keep bikes and gear organized. With your new floor space, you could have a great indoor gym, a lounge, a rec area for rowdy kids or even a music studio.

Sure, there are other spaces in your home that are more photogenic and fun. But underutilized spaces can be some of the most functional places in your house. By thinking beyond the usual, you can create storage, work and living spaces that make sense for you and your lifestyle. Get creative and you’ll learn to love every inch of your home.

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2018 Candles Gift Guide to Get Shopping Done Faster

November 5, 2018 by admin

We hope you like the products we recommend. Just so you are aware, Freshome may collect a share of sales from the links on this page.

Are you looking for a gift for that difficult-to-shop-for person in your life? Then you might want to consider buying them a candle or two. These make surprisingly wonderful gifts because candles can fit into any room design. They’re an attractive, classy accent in any space. Many also let off inviting scents. A candle can also make a great seasonally themed gift, thanks to the attractive seasonal designs some of them have. Take a look below to see some of our top picks for candles. The list contains both flameless and wax styles.

Seasonal candles

This designer item paints a traditional holiday scene right inside the candle for a classy gift. Find it at Wayfair ($75).

A classic smelling candle from Crate & Barrel ($20) can make a good general gift that helps anyone add some festive cheer to their space.

These two glitter mason jar candles at Target ($30) are an attractive addition to just about any room design around the holidays.

These holiday candles with seasonal names can be found at Etsy (Set of 4 , $38).

These two delightful flameless candles with holly decorations, which you can find at Amazon ($22), would make a nice accent in a home around the holidays.

This set of three candles is hand-painted for crafted holiday cheer. Get them at Wayfair ($27).

Not all candles need to include a flame. Incense is a great alternative . Source: Anthropologie

A set of LED candles with a snowflake design from Kohl’s ($24 to $40) would make a great addition to a winter wonderland home theme.

This gorgeous, intricate design will draw in the eye of anyone who looks at it, and you can find it at Etsy ($40). It’s definitely in the “too pretty to burn” category.

This set of flameless candles from Kohl’s ($30 to $60) combines a modern LED functionality with the traditional look of evergreen encased in wax.

A small Christmas tree design from Etsy (Set of 4, $16) can make a good accent around the home. (Think stocking stuffer with this small item.)

Scented candles

If someone on your gift giving list loves rich scents, they’ll adore this Colonial Candle from Wayfair ($18).

Along similar lines, this lemon verbena candle from Pottery Barn ($69 to $149) packs the added herbal scent of bergamot and comes in a natural leaf pattern jar.

If you were under the impression that flameless candles couldn’t be scented, think again; this set of three candles from Wayfair ($22) has a vanilla scent.

These have a more geometric shape to them than the LED scented candles above; you can find the set of two vanilla-scented candles at Wayfair ($37).

For a scented seasonal item, try this Christmas Cookie scent from Yankee Candle, which you can find at Target ($22).

This item gives off a sugar plum scent, making it a good option for people who enjoy holiday scents; you can find it at Wayfair ($12) featuring a primitive look that’s good for rustic homes.

Book lovers in your life will rejoice to receive this as a gift, with their favorite bookstore smells right at home; you can find this candle at Etsy ($18).

For the people in your life who like the finer things, this Cognac and Cubans candle from Etsy ($8.48) is a good gift-giving choice.

Soy candles

Soy wax burns longer and with less smoke, so this eucalyptus-scented candle can provide ambiance and boost a feeling of wellbeing. Find it at Wayfair ($26).

This personalized soy candle from Etsy ($15.50) is a heartfelt gift for someone close to you.

This soy candle from Kohl’s ($18 to $23) has layers of scents, so it’s like getting three candles in one.

This peppermint and eucalyptus candle from Etsy ($27) is made with natural essential oils and eco wax (great for the environmentalist in your life).

Looking for a seasonal stocking stuffer soy candle? Consider this roasted chestnut-scented candle from Target ($5).

These soy candles from Etsy ($8) have some of the strongest scents around – which is important with amazing scents like bubblegum, birthday cake and cinnamon apple.

This lavender soy candle from Target ($7.39) is housed in a classic jelly jar.

We hope you’ve found some great candle ideas to fit any seasonal room theme or year-round theme. These might just make it a little easier to get that holiday gift shopping done this year.

The post 2018 Candles Gift Guide to Get Shopping Done Faster appeared first on Freshome.com.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall: Using Mirrors as a Design Element

November 4, 2018 by admin

We all know that mirrors can make a room appear larger – and that’s a neat trick – but mirrors are more than just one-trick ponies. They can also be used as a design element to help complete whatever look you’re trying to achieve. A mirror can provide either contrast or balance when used correctly. It can also unify a space or serve as the focal point. However, it’s important to make sure that the scale and proportion are harmonious with the setting.

Below are just some of the many ways you can use mirrors as a design element.

Suspended Mirror

A trendy New York bathroom for two. Image: SGH Designs

This mirror is suspended from the ceiling and serves as the room’s focal point while providing both interest and contrast. However, the mirror is also functional, serving to separate the two back-to-back vanities and allowing the users on either side to view it simultaneously as needed. In addition, the mirror is low enough to be used by people of almost any height, but it’s also high enough to avoid getting splashed with water.

Tile-Surround Mirror

A Naples Beach, Miami, FL powder room. Image: 41 West

This is just one of the vanity stations in this home’s master bath. The mirror – with beveled sides – has a glass mosaic iridescent tile surround with diamond glass grout. The mirror is the attention grabber in this small space with high ceilings, and the sconces are placed slightly above eye level to balance the room and draw the eye upward.

Mirrored Closet Doors

A walk-in closet in Chicago, IL. Image: Randy Heller Pure and Simple Interior Design

The walk-in closet in this Chicago lake home has antiqued mirror closet doors, in addition to the antiqued door leading into the walk-in. This touch of old-world glamour adds just enough bling to make the room stylish without being gaudy.

Mirror as Unifier

A Boston powder room. Image: Cynthia Discroll Interiors

In this elegant Boston powder room, the mirror unifies all of the room’s other elements. It brings out the polished chrome and crystal handles of the faucet and the chrome light fixture. The mirror also highlights the soft grays on the walls and countertop as well as the design in the charcoal drawings.

A Wall of Mirrors

A lobby in Miami, FL. Image: Pegasus Builders

This may look like the lobby of a commercial building, but it’s actually a Miami-based residential lobby. Using a wall of mirrors, it plays on the design element of pattern, which adds another level of interest to the room and complements the repeating pattern on the floor and cabinet.

A Mirrored Wall

A Sydney, Australia bathroom. Image: Ian Moore Architects

The horizontal and vertical lines in the wall of mirrors help to define this sleek space and focus attention on the wall-mounted sink and toilet. The mirrored wall also helps to bounce the natural light around the room.

Mirror Used to Complement Nature

A bathroom in a modern New York home: Image: William Reue Architecture

The view outside is clearly the focal point in the space. However, the mirror, wood floors and cabinets in this minimalist bathroom provide contrast to the otherwise all-white areas. The geometric shape of the bathroom mirrors also adds texture and interest, which keeps this space from looking sterile when the windows are closed. The mirrors also provide a repeating pattern, a popular element in design.

Mirror Backsplash

A New York home with a mirror backsplash. Image: ML Interior Designs

This New York home uses a mirror backsplash as a unique way to add interest. The subway tiles create a repeating pattern and are also easy to clean since there are no ugly grout lines.

Mirror Furniture and Accessories

An elegant home office in New York. Image: Vanessa DeLeon

A desk is another way to incorporate mirrors in your design. And according to Lyndsey Dianne, owner and operator of DianneDecor.com, mirrors can also be used in other ways to provide accents. “Mirrored trays and vases make great centerpieces, and they add a bit of glam to a space, particularly when paired with chrome or silver,” she says. “A small mirror embellished with a few rhinestones or diamond wrap is a great design element, and it can be used as a lovely jewelry tray or a place to hold your perfume,” Dianne says.

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