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transform dead space in your home

Transform Dead Space in Your Home

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

People often ask how to best utilize all the space in their home. 

Some areas may seem like wasted space at first glance, but with some creativity, there’s always a way to turn that space into something functional while adding to your home’s interior style. 

Take a look at how you can transform these six space in your home!

Tall Windows

Who doesn’t love oversized windows letting in all the sunlight? The only issue is, most people don’t want to cover them with furniture, leaving the space empty. Low benches allow the light in, while still providing a place to lounge. 

Unused Nook

Small nooks can be found in many homes: at the end of the hallway, between two walls, or a small landing at the top of the stairs. These spaces can easily be transformed into a home office with the right furniture. Measure the space, and find a desk to fit. To spruce up the new office, you can create an accent wall with a splash of color or wallpaper.

Bottom of the Staircase

The space at the bottom of the stairs often gets neglected. But you can make it an inviting space with a bench or chair and a piece of artwork. You can also install some shelving for extra storage. 

Closet

If you have a closet that’s sole purpose is collecting junk, you may want to consider clearing it out! There are numerous ways to repurpose a closet after taking the doors off. The small alcove can fit a changing table for a nursery, house your home bar, become a cozy reading nook, or even a mini-workshop area. 

Small Entrance

No matter what type of front entrance you have, you can create a space for your belongings near the front door. A small bench with baskets underneath some hooks provides organization for your coats and shoes, while a runner and accent wall creates a welcoming design. 

Corner of the Bedroom

No matter what size bedroom you have, you can utilize the corner of the room. Simply placing a chair in the corner of the bedroom gives you a place to sit or can be used to lay out clothes. Add a small side table for a comfy place to do your morning journaling or sip your coffee while getting ready.

Remember – every nook of your home can be utilized! Do you have questions about a dead space in your home? Let me know!

interior design tips

7 Tips to Simplify Interior Design

Posted on by Jill Przylucki in Home Design

Whether you completed renovations, are moving into a new space, or want to change things up, interior design makes your home feel like…home. 

Many people get overwhelmed at the thought of decorating their home, but design does not need to be complicated!

Take a look at these seven simple tips for interior design that can transform any room!

Find Furniture that fits the Room

No matter how gorgeous the couch (or table or chair) is in the display room, it will not look good in your house if the size isn’t right. Often, people go too big or too small with their furniture, and it throws off the rest of the design. 

If you are not sure what size or shape will fit best in a room, speak with someone in the furniture store. There are also many online applications that allow you to view furniture in your space virtually – all you need is the correct measurements!

Salvage Goods

Incorporate what you already have! Just because you are redesigning a room doesn’t mean you have to buy all new items. Have an armchair that you love, but the color doesn’t go? Get it reupholstered. Coffee tables can be refinished, and often, outdated furniture just needs a fresh coat of paint to become new again.

If you love salvaging items, you can also explore second-hand shops and markets in your area.  Antique and rustic finds can be repurposed into statement pieces in any room. 

Mix and Match

Design today does need to be perfectly matching. Mixing and matching patterns, colors, and even metals adds an element of fun to your design. Be careful not to incorporate too many different designs because it could become visually overwhelming. Stay within the same color scheme, then choose two or three visually appealing patterns or textures to repeat throughout the room. 

Let Lighting be a Feature

There is no end to the design choices in lighting fixtures. Select lighting that goes with the overall theme of your room: rustic, modern, classic, or country. A modern chandelier can be incorporated as a statement piece in the dining area, while a lamp next to the couch can become a subtle design element. 

Invest in Art

Artwork by Kim Romero 

Art displays do not have to be expensive, but they should communicate your style. Instead of searching for a specific piece for that one wall, stroll through art, stopping when a piece catches your attention (I promise – you WILL find the perfect sport for pieces you love!).

Art can add a pop of color or become a focal point to the room. Remember that art comes in all forms – wall hangings, sculptures, statues, even a handmade vase is a piece of art. Showcase art that speaks to you. 

Incorporate Plants

Incorporating nature into your interior design adds color and a fresh look to any room. Do some research on which plants do best with low levels of sunlight for indoor plants, so they last. Don’t have a green thumb? Many fake plants can pass as the real thing. 

Accent Walls

Accent walls can be incorporated with wallpaper, wood paneling, or color. An accent wall is perfect for people who want to go bold without going overboard. This is also an excellent solution for people who don’t want a lot hanging on the walls because, with the right design, an entire wall can turn into a piece of art. 

Do you have any interior design tips? Share them below!

paint projects

5 Paint Projects to Transform Your Home

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

Many people are yearning for a home refresh this year. One of the easiest ways to transform the design of your home is with paint. 

We also know that painting an entire house can seem like a daunting task, but that doesn’t mean you can’t spruce things up! Most paint projects can usually be completed in a day or two, and can provide you with a desired new look without going overboard with spending. 

Here are 5 paint projects to transform your home in a weekend: 

Doors

One of the quickest ways to boost the curb appeal of your home is to update your front door. Whether you just need to do a touch-up, or want to select a new, bold color, changing the color of your front door is a small project that makes a big difference. 

You can also take a look at the interior doors of your home. White interior doors remain popular because they provide an open, clean look, but they can also get smudge marks. If this is the case, you many want to touch up the doors inside as well. 

Trim

Updating your trim will make your entire home feel like new. Trim is something we don’t often notice, but it can make a big difference in the appearance of any room. If your trim is outdated or worn down, it may be time for a fresh coat of paint. Just like interior doors, white is a great option in any style home, but you can also go for a contrasting trim color for a bolder look. 

Hallways

We often neglect the hallways in our homes, but we pass by these walls multiple times a day. If it’s time for a facelift, don’t just hang up more photographs. Start with the canvas and repaint the walls. 

Bathroom

The right paint color in the bathroom can turn it into a relaxing retreat. If you are sick of your bathroom but aren’t ready for new cabinets or flooring just yet, play around with a new paint color to transform this space. 

Furniture

Outdated furniture can turn into a treasure after being sanded down and given new life. Whether it’s a desk, chairs, or side tables, furniture is also a great way to incorporate pops of color. This simple DIY project can be finished in an afternoon. Not only will you feel like you have new furniture, but it will change the look of the entire room!

These simple paint projects can be completed by anyone, giving you a spruced-up space without taking up too much time or exceeding your budget! 

backyard features

Backyard Features that can Increase Your Property Value

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

Every year, people gear up and get excited to spend more time outside – even if that means sitting out on their own property. More than ever before, outdoor living space has become just as coveted as indoor living areas. 

If you are revamping your outdoor living areas, take a look at 6 features that are most likely to increase your home’s value as well as your enjoyment factor!

New Deck or Patio

The deck or patio is the place where people congregate, grill, and enjoy each other’s company. Investing in a new one, especially if the current one is old or neglected. A patio typically costs less to install than a deck, but both offer high ROI (Return of Investment), making the spend well worth it while you live there and when you sell!

Outdoor Kitchen

Who doesn’t dream of an outdoor kitchen? If you love to entertain, an outdoor kitchen makes it more convenient to prep food and drinks while hosting, but also limits the number of times your guests walk in and out of the house. 

While an outdoor kitchen will give any outdoor space the ‘wow’ factor, it is also a more expensive project to take on. Outdoor kitchens typically see a better ROI in higher-end properties, because luxury buyers look for amenities, among other factors. . 

Irrigation System

Landscaping is a large part of curb appeal, and an irrigation system allows you to maintain an impeccable property with less maintenance. If you have a large yard, this feature is especially appealing to buyers. 

Privacy

No matter where you live – country, city, or suburbs – people want privacy. Landscaping that creates additional privacy from neighbors is an excellent addition to your outdoor space. If you don’t want to install a fence, hedges, plants, and shrubs can all create the privacy you desire.

Outdoor Shower

If you already have a pool or live by the shoreline, an outdoor shower can add value. This keeps sand out of the house, and provide an easy way to rinse off after a day of fun in the sun. 

Fire Pits

Fire pits are one of the most popular ways to increase your home’s appeal, especially in the Northeast. Costs can vary, depending on if the fire pit is permanent or mobile, but many buyers appreciate knowing they can cozy up to an outdoor fire. Of course, make sure it’s permitted in your community before installing!

front door color

Dos and Don’ts of Front Door Color

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

Let’s talk curb appeal.

You know it’s important. But perhaps you don’t have the time – or the budget – to revamp the entire exterior. 

Simply painting your front door can enhance curb appeal, and it’s a DIY project you can complete ina day. 

Not sure where to start? Keep reading for the do’s and don’ts of choosing a front door color.

Do: Consider Your Home’s Style

Do you live in a traditional, contemporary, or modern home? The layout of your home can help you select a color that speaks to your overall style. A modern home might allow for a bold color. If you want to stay on the traditional side you can still do something a bit different with a black door or a wood door with a dark stain. 

Don’t: Be Afraid of Color

Even in a traditional home, you can add color to your exterior. A bright yellow or green creates an energizing entrance, while teal or blue is more calming. Think about the statement you want to make as a first impression, and select a color to represent that. 

Do: Get the Right Paint

Exterior paint is essential for your front door, even if you have a covered front porch. Over time, the door will be exposed to many different elements, and the right paint prevents peeling and fading. To ensure your color lasts, start with an exterior primer before putting the color on. 

Don’t: Forget about Finish

Color isn’t the only thing to think about when painting your door. Exterior paint comes in many different finishing, including matte, semigloss, and glossy. 

Do: Stick to One Color

If you want to make your home look bigger, keep the entrance monochrome. You can make your entrance appear larger by painting the door, trim, and window frames the same color. 

Don’t: Skip the Details

Consider the entire entrance to your home. This includes door trim, a screen door, and even the lighting fixtures next to the front door. If you don’t want to go monochrome, make sure these features complement your new door color for a beautiful contrast. 

Are you thinking about changing up your front door? Let me know in the comments!

transform closets space

10 Ways to Transform a Closet into Usable Space

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

Have an unused closet? Or perhaps a closet that’s filled with junk, but doesn’t serve a real purpose. 

Well, time to clear it out!

Large or small, closets can easily become usable spaces with a bit of imagination and some DIY work. Take a look at 10 ways to transform a closet below!

Home Bar

When I shared my dining room refresh, I had many questions about the home bar. Yes – it was once a closet in the dining room! We didn’t use it, so we took the doors off, painted the interior wall a dark color to contrast with the white shiplap, and slid in a beautiful piece to serve as our home bar. Now, THIS is something we use!

Homework Station

Whether children are learning remotely or have nightly homework, a dedicated workspace is ideal. This homework station is split in two, and even has a separator between stations. If you opt to leave the closet doors intact, you can slide the doors closed when work is complete!

Laundry Room

With the right plumbing, a closet easily holds a washer and dryer. Place open shelving above the machines for optimal organization!

Mudroom

Open up your entryway closet to create an organized mudroom that goes beyond hanging coats. Add a bench (and slide shoes under it), hooks for jackets and bags, and an upper shelf. To make your mudroom pop, add paneling or wallpaper for a decorative statement. 

Book Nook

A cozy book nook can be used anytime someone wants a little quiet time. Shelving holds your favorite reads, a ceiling fixture adds light, and a comfortable cushion makes this a place everyone will love to lounge in. 

Changing Station

It doesn’t take long before a nursery starts to feel crowded. The closet can serve double purposes – storing those adorable baby clothes, and a changing station. This keeps one piece of furniture out of the main room, and utilizes the closet perfectly. 

Pantry

Using a closet as a pantry isn’t a new idea, but I wanted to add this in there to show the closet doesn’t have to be huge! Even a narrow closet, with the right shelving, can become an organized pantry. 

Home Office

With more people working from home, more people are looking for permanent solutions to a home office. Clearing out a closet, painting the interior a soothing color, and installing a desk and open shelving is the perfect solution. Add in some lighting and artwork for a space you’ll love working from. 

Cozy Bed Nook

This is great for a kid’s room! Slide in a twin bed to a closet, add some soft lighting and curtains for the ultimate bed fort. 

Mini-Workshop Space

No matter your hobby, you can turn a closet into a mini-workshop to organize your materials and complete small projects. I love the pegboard on the wall of this one, creating space to hang your most-used items, while drawers and shelving create even more storage. 

Which closet transformation do you like to best?

wallpaper accents

Wallpaper Accents that Inspire

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

Anyone who has taken down wallpaper in years past may be hesitant about adding a wallpaper accent. 

But, this is not your grandmother’s wallpaper. 

Designers are calling wallpaper ‘clothing for walls,’ adding a touch of style that can’t be achieved with paint alone. 

Lately, I’ve been getting questions about wallpaper and how to incorporate it into your home design, so I want to share some designs that are inspiring me at the moment. Swipe through to see some of the bestsellers from Murals Wallpaper, and let me know what your favorite is!

  • Florals can be soft and delicate, or big and bold! This dark floral wallpaper pops against the teal paint color, and creates a look that blends vintage with romance.
  • Liven up a playroom or child’s bedroom with kid-friendly wallpaper! This Safari kids map wallpaper is sure to ignite imagination (and a travel bug!).
  • This black-and-white abstract wallpaper is the perfect way to liven up a small space like a laundry room or bathroom.
  • Marble wallpaper is trending, and it’s easy to see why! Soft colors, combined with texture, create an accent wall that invokes zen and elegance.
  • This blue watercolor wallpaper is calming and serene. Added to a wall in the home office or bedroom, and you’ll be at peace all day (or night).
  • Bold, geometric shapes make this wallpaper appear like an oversized work of art. This design is ideal for an industrial or modern style.
  • This wallpaper combines texture, color, and the depiction of aged metal. Couple with brass fixtures in the bathroom or wood furniture in the bedroom for an attention-grabbing statement.
  • Who doesn’t love a rustic brick wall? This textured wallpaper achieves the look, even if you don’t have the bricks.
  • Calling all art lovers! This abstract wallpaper was inspired by the painterly technique with a variety of brushstrokes for a fun and playful vibe.
  • This Art Deco wallpaper creates a beautiful accent wall in the living room. Paired with gold light fixtures, it’s elegant and trendy.
  • The canvas background and neutral colors of this wallpaper make it an eye-catching accent in any living space. The design of the arrows will also make the wall appear taller, making it perfect for smaller rooms with low ceilings.

What are your favorite ways to incorporate wallpaper? Let me know in the comments!

2021 tile trends

2021 Tile Trends

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

National Tile Day was February 23, and you know I tuned in to my favorite design topic!

One of the reasons I love tile is because design possibilities are endless. Different colors, textures, and materials enable you to incorporate tile into any style of home. I always love learning about new tile trends!

To celebrate National Tile Day, Coverings announced the 2021 Tile Design Trends, forecasted by three leading international tile associations: Ceramics of Italy, Tile of Spain, and the Tile Council of North America. 

Keep reading to learn what they are!

Flecked Effect

The flecked effect features floating fragments, or flecks, creating a unique look whether you opt for neutrals or bolder colors. Many options have flecked effects, including chunky to subtle flecks, making it an excellent design for interior or exterior living spaces. 

Gorgeous Greens

We’re all craving a connection to nature – we’re seeing that in all elements of home design, and tile is no exception. Shades of green, from sage to mint to emerald, help bring a bit of the outdoors in.

Soft Textures

To tone down the look of 3D tile, soft textures and light colors create a serene canvas for any room. This creates a more natural look, while still bringing in textures that have grown popular over the past few years. 

High Gloss

This trend is a comeback! Glossy tiles offer an eye-catching shine, making any surface pop. Neutral tones and saturated colors keep a more natural look while adding in shine. 

Vein

Large-scale veining in tile is expected to be a big trend in 2021. Tile that mimics the look of marble, with some offering wide, flowing veins, and others with more angular veining. 

XXL

Tile sizes seem to be growing every year, and 2021 is no exception. Extra-large ceramic tiles, some up to 10.5 feet in size, are great for flooring and countertops. Bonus: larger tiles mean less grout to clean!

Biophilia

Biophilic design supports cognitive function, physical health, and psychological well-being. With advancements in high definition printing, biophilic tile design incorporates natural and untreated wood looks. 

Large Hexes

Hexagon tiles have been popular over the past couple of years, and now they are getting super-sized. In 2021, hexagon tile, as big as two feet in diameter, creates an eye-catching look. 

Patterned Tile Concrete Lookalikes

Tiles that look like concrete will continue to show up this year, with playful patterns creating a dramatic impact in any space. 

Muted Tones

A muted palette is the final 2021 Tile Trend from Coverings. Soft blues and greens create a soothing environment. People are looking to create more relaxing spaces at home, and muted colors are one way to achieve this. 

Do you have any tile questions? Let me know!

dining room refresh

5-Day Dining Room Refresh

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

Like many of you, I have a never-ending list of improvements I want to make in my home. My latest refresh was my dining room, and it was long overdue. 

The dining room often gets overlooked, especially as many kitchens now incorporate some type of eat-in space. We’ve all seen dining room tables used as a place to pile up odds and ends, cleared off a couple of times a year for holiday dinners. 

But what if your dining room became a place you loved? With a quick refresh, the dining room can be your go-to to enjoy your meals and conversations with loved ones.  

The great thing about the dining room is it doesn’t take much to complete a refresh. Keep reading for how I did it in five days!

Day 1: The Before

Our dining room was fully functional and already had a dining room table I LOVE from Madison Furniture Barn, as well as an incredible light fixture from Serena & Lily. The only problem was, my family of five used it more as a passing-through than anything else. The room, in general, felt a bit dated with gray trim and chair rail on all four walls. 

Day 2: Trim Removed

Like any refresh, you must first remove what you don’t want before adding in what you do want. For me, that meant taking down all the trim. 

We put down paper to protect the flooring and hung plastic in the open doorways to prevent dust from going into other rooms. Then, the removal began. This included removing the ceiling, floor, door, and window trim, and well as the chair rail. 

Day 3: New Trim Installed 

Next, we installed new trim. We went with white trim around doors, windows, ceiling, and floor. This clean, simple look blends perfectly with the next feature added!

Day 4: Shiplap Installed

That’s right, shiplap! We put in white shiplap horizontally on every wall, with the exception of the nook (which used to be a closet!) that houses our dry bar. 

Day 5: Painting Complete

Finally, a bit of touch of paint was completed to finalize the dining room refresh. We used Super White by Benjamin Moore for a crisp, clean look. Since I already have a light fixture that I love, that didn’t need to change this time around. 

The final look is casual enough to enjoy family meals every night, and stylish enough to have after-dinner drinks with guests. 

If you’ve been thinking about making some changes to your dining room, here’s your sign! Feel free to send me any questions, and of course before and after photos!