5 Tips for Decorating with Plants

Posted on July 5, 2021 by Nicole White in Home Design

House plants have always been around, but they’ve skyrocketed in popularity over the past few years.

Not only do house plants look great, they add a calming element to any space, caring for them is a rewarding hobby, and they can help purify the air. And of course, it doesn’t hurt that they look so great on Instagram.

If you’re ready to add some life (literally) to your home, read on for 5 tips for decorating with indoor plants.

1) Keep it Light

As fun and creative as decorating with plants can be, there are a few practical things to consider. One of the most important is lighting. All plants will need some source of natural light to thrive, but different plants need different amounts. Some will need bright, direct sunlight, while others prefer a bit of shade. Be sure to research any plants you consider putting in your home and place them in a location where they will get the optimum amount of sunlight.

2) Play in the Dirt

While it may be convenient to set your new plant into that cute planter still in the plastic pot it came in, this isn’t the best idea. Your plant is likely to grow out of the small container that you bought it in fairly quickly, so invest some time in an afternoon of repotting. Be sure to use high quality potting soil and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty!

3) Get Creative with Pots

While most houseplants are green, it’s easy to incorporate other colors in the pots you plant them in. You can find pots in every color, shape, and pattern imaginable, so get creative. If you can’t find just what you’re looking for, purchase a plain terra cotta pot at your local garden store and paint it yourself to perfectly accent your home.

4) Mix it Up

One of the most fun things about plants is that there is so much variety! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors, shapes, sizes and textures. If you group plants together, remember that contrast is a key to good design. Succulents have become very popular, and they come in a plethora of shapes and sizes, making them an excellent choice to add variety to your home.

5) Spread Out

House plants aren’t only for the living room. Place some in your bedroom, kitchen, or office. The bathroom is another excellent location for house plants. This tends to be one of the most humid rooms in the house, meaning that certain types of plants will thrive there that may not in other parts of your home. Just be sure that no matter what room your plants are in, there is a window nearby!

Plants are a fun and interactive way to brighten up your home. From succulents to cacti to orchids, each plant has unique needs, so be sure to learn which plants fit your climate and lifestyle.

5 Ways to Refresh Your Home on a Budget

Posted on June 28, 2021June 28, 2021 by Nicole White in Home Design

You don’t have to blow your budget to improve the look of your home, and a quick refresh can even increase its value! A coat of paint, some new fixtures, and your home can look like new – without breaking the bank.

Read on to learn how to transform your home on a budget!

1. Add a Fresh Coat of Paint

One of the most common home improvement projects is painting- and for good reason. Painting is an inexpensive, DIY project that can completely transform a space. Lighter colors can make a room seem larger and more open, while darker shades make a room feel cozy and intimate.

And you don’t even have to commit to painting a full room-consider a brightly colored accent wall to add visual interest to your space without investing four wall’s worth of time and money into your project. You’ll be shocked at what a difference one wall can make.

2. Try a Hardware Transformation

Hardware – from drawer handles to cabinet knobs – can date your home and is an often-overlooked opportunity to add some of your own personality to your interior décor. There is a wide array of decorative hardware available at craft and hardware stores and it’s easy to find pieces to accent every style. This inexpensive project is easy to do on your own in just a few hours.

3. Stick on a New Backsplash

Looking to update your kitchen on a tight budget? Peel-and-stick backsplashes are an interior design trend that work for tight budgets. You can easily achieve a wide range of effects for a fraction of the cost of traditional tile. This is a great project for beginners as it can be done in an afternoon with virtually no mess and cleanup.

Another benefit of peel-and-stick tile is that it is much easier to switch out than traditional tile and is a great choice if you’re not ready to commit to a permanent backsplash design.

4. Renew Your Kitchen Cabinets

Another opportunity to refresh your kitchen lies in those wooden cabinets. You may notice your kitchen feeling dark and cramped, and your cabinets may be the culprit. A bright coat of paint will have your kitchen feeling brand new in no time. It’s easy to paint your cabinets yourself – just don’t forget to clean them thoroughly before you begin!

5. Pick out New Lighting Fixtures

Have you considered opting for new lighting fixtures? This may seem like an expensive endeavor, but you may be surprised at the range of affordable options in the lighting aisle of your local home improvement store. The fixtures themselves can become a fashionable asset to your interior, as well as brightening up a space, making it feel more open and energizing.

You don’t have to choose between saving money and creating the home of your dreams. It’s easy to find inexpensive ways to make your home feel like your own. How have you improved your home on a budget? Tell me in the comments below!

Popular Home Styles

Posted on June 14, 2021June 14, 2021 by Nicole White in Home Design

From timeless to trendy, a short drive through the suburbs will confirm that there is plenty of variation in home styles across the United States. Each of these styles brings something different to the table and is as unique as the people that live inside.

Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply browse the market, it helps to know which home styles are in vogue. Read on for 7 of the most popular home styles in the U.S. in 2021.

1. Ranch

Ranch-style homes first emerged in the 1930’s, gaining popularity in the 50’s and 60’s. They are single-story dwellings, sometimes including a basement. Low-pitched roofs, plenty of windows and sliding glass doors are characteristic of this style. The ranch-style home may also be regionally known as a “rambler”.

2. Craftsman

Influenced by the British Arts and Crafts movement’s value for hand-worked furniture and buildings, the craftsman has been popular in America since the early 1900’s. These homes often feature intentionally exposed rafters, open front porches supported by wide beams, and shingles. Inside, thick trim and ceiling beams are characteristic of the style.

3. Contemporary

Contrary to the common misconception, contemporary and modern are two distinct forms of architecture. Contemporary-style homes emerged in the 1970’s and focus on the popular trends of the time in which they are built. They often incorporate open floor plans, natural light and eco-friendly materials.

4. Modern

Modern-style architecture was created in the early 20^th century and prioritized function over form. This led to a minimalist approach, with open floor plans, clean, geometric lines, and stark exteriors with little trim or ornamentation.

5. Cape Cod

The Cape-Cod style originated in England before moving to the United States. It is prevalent in the New-England region and features a prominent chimney and symmetrical design. These homes are incredibly practical, with steep roofs to avoid accumulating snow, clapboard or shingle exteriors to trap heat, and large windows for plenty of natural light.

6. Colonial

Colonial-style homes share many similarities with the Cape-Cod style, such as symmetry and side-gabled roofs. Colonials, however, tend to have two to three stories while the Cape-Cod style usually has only one. These beautiful homes frequently feature brick exteriors and decorative doorways.

7. Tudor

The Tudor is one of the most instantly recognizable styles, even to the untrained eye. These homes are usually primarily brick, with decorative half-timbering on the upper stories creating the classic striped look that so many know and love. These homes usually have steeply pitched roofs with front-facing gables and many-paned windows.

These are just a few of the unique styles that add personality to neighborhoods around the country. Which of these styles is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below!

4 Tips to Modernize Your Home

Posted on June 7, 2021June 7, 2021 by Nicole White in Home Design

There’s a lot of inspiration for home design out there: from shows on TV to Instagram feeds and Pinterest boards.

And who doesn’t love browsing through before and after photos of a home remodeling project?

Social media and TV shows have even affected how buyers view properties:

68% of buyers agents stated buyers were disappointed by how homes looked compared to homes they saw on TV shows.

Whether you are getting ready to list your home for sale and want to increase the value, or you want to upgrade your living space for your own pleasure, take a look at these tips to modernize your home!

Start in the Kitchen

There are so many ways to modernize your kitchen!

One of the most popular is updating appliances. Newer stainless steel or black appliances can make a huge difference in your space. Appliances with smudge-resistant finishes and easy-to-clean surfaces help keep things looking newer longer, too.

New cabinetry is another way to change the look of your kitchen. Not in the budget right now? No problem – you don’t have to install brand-new cabinets to get a new look in the kitchen. Painting or refacing your cabinetry, along with some new hardware gives existing materials a facelift at a much lower cost.

Even the simple act of reorganizing your kitchen can make a big difference. Think about using cabinet organizers and other organizational tools to create more usable space for everything you need – from pots and pans on the stovetop, to spices stored away neatly in a drawer – without making it look cluttered or messy. This will give an open feel that makes kitchens seem larger than they really are.

Update the Bathroom

New tile – whether flooring, shower, or backsplash – in the bathroom can provide a refreshing change. And, with newer and more water-resistant materials available today, it’s easy to bring your outdated tiles up to date without worrying about chipping or cracking.

A fresh coat of paint or fun wallpaper is another way to modernize this space – especially if you’re not looking for anything too drastic and just want things to look clean again.

Finally, replacing old or outdated accessories can make the space feel like new. Towels, mats, shower curtains, and towel rods or hooks can all be updated for a modern look.

Upgrade Lighting Fixtures

If you still have original lighting fixtures throughout your home, that means they’re probably a few decades old. The options for lighting fixtures are endless and there are also plenty of new modern styles to choose from – without breaking your budget.

Just think about what you want the space to look like. Do you want it to have a bright, welcoming ambiance, or do you prefer something more subdued?

Replacing outdated fixtures is a quick and easy way to modernize your home!

Statement Decor Pieces

Statement pieces are all the rage these days and for good reason! They’re a great way to make your home more unique. This can be anything from an accent chair in a bold color or pattern, to a piece of artwork, to painting over old wood paneling to create an accent wall.

You can shop for statement pieces at your favorite shops, or you can hit up markets and estate sales for unique finds you can’t find in stores. Start with a vision in mind and explore your favorite places.

There’s no need to invest in every piece of statement decor at once. Start small by adding just one item that will make your house feel like it belongs only to you!

Do you have any design questions? Let me know in the comments!

4 Tips to turn your Bedroom into a Private Oasis

Posted on May 31, 2021May 31, 2021 by Nicole White in Home Design

The master bedroom is one of the most important rooms in the home; after all, it’s where you start and end every day.

That’s why it is essential for the space to be more than just a bed and a dresser, but a welcoming retreat from the stressors of your daily life. Want to transform your master bedroom but not sure where to start?

Read on for 4 tips to elevate your bedroom space and create your personal oasis.

1. Color is Key

It’s important to select the right color palette to create the desired effect in your master bedroom.

Looking for a breezy space to refresh and rejuvenate? Consider light neutrals. Want a taste of luxury? Darker jewel tones may be the way to go. Whatever palette you choose, be sure to use it consistently throughout your space.

2. Take a Seat

Your master bedroom can be more than just the place you sleep. Adding seating could turn the space into your favorite place to lounge during the day as well. Try an armchair, loveseat, or even a window seat to create a place to relax without eating up too much space.

These additions can also be used as design assets. Consider brightly colored or patterned upholstery to make the most of this addition to your master bedroom.

3. Storage Solutions

You need your master bedroom to be beautiful and functional. That’s why it’s so important to keep storage in mind when designing your space. Rather than hiding storage space away in a closet, incorporate it into your décor with stylish shelving. Or, consider a wardrobe or foot trunk for a more classic feel.

4. Patterned Perfection

Why not add some visual interest to your master bedroom with your favorite patterns and textures?

From traditional florals to modern geometrics, it’s easy to change the feel of an entire space with just a few pops of pattern. There are many ways to incorporate patterns into your bedroom, such as a bedspread or wallpaper. When it comes to this design element, a little goes a long way, so be sure to use strategically!

When creating a master bedroom, it can be challenging to strike the perfect balance between beauty and function. But with some intentional design, your master bedroom can easily become your favorite room in your home. I hope these tips help you get started on your journey to creating your dream space.

Which of these ideas will you be using in your master bedroom? Let me know in the comments below!

Transform Dead Space in Your Home

Posted on May 13, 2021May 13, 2021 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!

7 Tips to Simplify Interior Design

Posted on May 4, 2021May 4, 2021 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

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!

5 Paint Projects to Transform Your Home

Posted on April 28, 2021April 28, 2021 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 that can Increase Your Property Value

Posted on April 12, 2021April 12, 2021 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!