Tag: home design

Popular Kitchen Cabinet Colors

Posted on by Nicole White in Kitchen

Looking to update your kitchen? One of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to spruce up your space is to paint your cabinets. 

There are so many colors to choose from depending on your style, and each one has something unique to offer. I’ve compiled some of my favorite colors, sure to make your cabinets pop!

White

If you’re going for a clean, classic look, consider bright white cabinets. White kitchens are timeless and allow for pops of color elsewhere in the room. They pair well with tile or wood and keep a kitchen looking bright and airy.

Gray

Gray is a favorite cabinet color due to its versatility. Grays come in both warm and cool tones, so no matter what other colors you have in your home, you can find a gray to match. This gray pairs well with marbled countertops and natural elements

Mint Green


If you want a less intense pop of color, consider a cool mint green. These kitchen cabinets create a calming, inviting atmosphere and contrast well with the dark gray backsplash. Combined with white panelling, this kitchen has a modern farmhouse feel. 

Off White

For those that appreciate the versatility of white but want a warmer room, consider off white or cream. This color pairs well with other warm neutrals like beige and tan. The brass accents in this kitchen add a bit of color while preserving the warmth of the cabinet color.

Blue

Blue cabinets give this kitchen a dash of coastal flair. This color is a great choice for those looking for darker cabinets to contrast against a lighter countertop. You can also opt for color on the island, with white or neutral cabinets in the rest of the kitchen. 

One of the best things about painting your kitchen cabinets is that it’s easy to do it yourself in just a weekend! Which of these cabinet colors will you be trying in your home? Let me know in the comments!

Prefabricated vs. Custom Tile Showers

Posted on by Nicole White in Bathroom

One of the most popular rooms to renovate, a bathroom remodel often centers around the shower and tub. 

This presents homeowners with a crucial choice: prefabricated shower stall or custom tile? 

There are pros and cons to each; I dive into the details below to help you make an informed decision!

Prefabricated Shower

Prefabricated shower units are made of acrylic or fiberglass and shipped to your home in one or multiple pieces. The choice between one-piece or multi-piece is typically determined by practical factors, like whether a one-piece unit can fit through the doorway of a home. For this reason, one-piece units are more popular when building a home or adding on to one when they can be installed before the doorframe. Prefabricated showers can be installed by professionals or DIYers fairly quickly. Once considered a subpar option, they have risen in popularity in recent years as they have become available in a huge variety of textures, colors, and designs.

Pros

There are many pros to a prefabricated shower. First, they tend to be more cost-effective than custom tiled showers. They are also much easier and quicker to install; you can even do it yourself. They are very easy to clean and maintain as they have few or no seams for water and dirt to accumulate in. They are usually very lightweight, which can be important if you have doubts about the structural integrity of your floors, such as in an older home.

Cons

One of the main cons to a prefabricated shower is size limitations. Most units only come in standard sizes and ordering a custom size can get very pricey. There’s also the issue of repairs. While it’s fairly easy to replace a cracked tile, prefabricated showers are more tricky. If your shower cracks, your only options are to make a visible repair with a fiberglass repair kit or replace the entire thing. If you’re the environmentally conscious type, it’s important to note that these showers are less environmentally friendly, as they are made of materials that will not decompose. Finally, there is simply less creative freedom when ordering something premade than when designing it yourself.

Custom Built Tile Shower

Unlike prefabricated showers, tile showers are built onsite. A carpenter constructs a frame and walls it in with cement, then a tiler finishes the job. Custom tile showers sometimes use factory made shower pans, other times the whole shower is tiled. This method tends to be more expensive than pre-fabrication but also allows for a greater range of customization.

Pros

As previously mentioned, one notable pro of going custom is that there are literally thousands of design options to choose from so that you can get the exact look you’re after. You can also be more precise with sizing, filling any space perfectly. Tile is made of natural materials and is therefore more environmentally friendly. Finally, tile is usually considered a more high-end material and can add value to your home.

Cons

If cost is a concern, a tiled shower may not be the thing for you, as they can easily become very expensive. They are also much more labor intensive and may take days even for the pros to complete. They require more maintenance than prefabricated showers, as all those tiny grout lines will need to be cleaned and sealed on a regular basis to prevent mildew and cracking. 

Ultimately, there are many factors that go into choosing the right kind of shower remodel, such as cost, style, and resale value. With careful consideration and research, you can choose the right type of shower for your home and make the most of your bathroom remodel.

decorating with plants

5 Tips for Decorating with Plants

Posted on 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 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!

pool landscaping

Dos and Don’ts of Pool Landscaping

Posted on by Nicole White in Social [RE]design

Summer is here! For those with a pool, it means more time spent in the water or lounging on the pool deck. 

Like all home improvements, landscaping around a pool area takes time and consideration to get just right. Beware – choosing the wrong plants in your pool area can make it feel less than luxurious. Some plants may even compromise the structural integrity of an in-ground pool. 

Not to worry, I’ve compiled some essential landscaping Dos and Dont’s to help you make the most of your pool area this summer.

DO: Avoid Messy Plants

When it comes to landscaping around your pool, not all plants are equal. While flowering trees may be beautiful elsewhere in a yard, next to the pool they could mean more work for you or your pool cleaner when they shed petals and leaves into and around the water.

DON’T: Choose Thorny Plants

Who doesn’t love a beautiful, lush rosebush? It may not be the best choice for your pool area, though. Thorny plants can pose a hazard to you and your guests when using the pool, especially with skin exposed by swimsuits. Since you’ll be spending a lot of time in the area immediately surrounding your pool, it’s best to choose plants without stickers and thorns.

DO: Opt for Low-Maintenance

Rather than deciduous plants that shed their leaves each year, consider perennials that will stay looking good year-round with just a bit of annual pruning. This will mean less sweeping around the pool each fall and will help your pool area look lush and inviting all year long.

DON’T: Forget about Roots

Certain trees with invasive roots can pose a threat to your pool’s structure and plumbing. Ficus, elm, and oak are just a few. Make sure to research any trees that you may want to plant around your pool. 

DO: Brighten the Night

Your pool area does not have to be enjoyed only in the hot sun of the afternoon. Install lighting around your pool to create a space that you can relax in any time of the day or night. Consider highlighting plants and trees surrounding your pool with spotlights to bring more attention to your beautiful landscaping.

DON’T: Go Exotic

It may be tempting to shop online for the most exotic plants for your pool area. Unfortunately, these plants may not thrive in your climate and could take more work to maintain if they are not in their native environment. Instead, shop at local greenhouses and garden stores to find plants native to your area that will flourish in your local climate.

DO: Keep Insects at Bay

Bee gardens have grown in popularity in recent years, but insect friendly plants are probably not the best choice for your pool area, where you’d rather spend your time working on your tan than swatting at bugs. It’s always a good idea to research the plants that you want to plant around your pool to find out if they’re pollinator magnets.

It’s worth taking the time to carefully research and consider the landscaping in your pool area to create something that is both beautiful and practical. With these tips you’ll be well on your way to a beautifully landscaped pool in no time. 

Are you updating your pool area this summer? Tell me about it in the comments!

popular home styles

Popular Home Styles

Posted on 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 20th 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!

tips to modernize your home

4 Tips to Modernize Your Home

Posted on 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!

bedroom design

4 Tips to turn your Bedroom into a Private Oasis

Posted on 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!

bathroom design trends

Bathroom Design Trends

Posted on by Nicole White in Bathroom

Bathrooms remain the top room to renovate, according to a NAHB remodeler’s survey, with 74% of all remodeling projects involving a bathroom in 2020. 

And it’s not surprising – although typically the smallest room in the home, a well-designed remodel can turn your bathroom into a spa and has a great return on investment. 

That’s a win-win!

Keep reading to learn more about this year’s bathroom decor trends!

Shower Layouts

Who doesn’t love stepping into the shower after a long day? With the right layout, the shower becomes more than a place to rinse off, and feels more like a sanctuary. 

A walk-in shower with glass door, tiled walls, and built-in shelves or seating is one way to revamp your bathroom space. If you have the extra space, a separate soaking tub completes this trend!

Colorful Wallpaper

The bathroom is a great space to play with color. Since bathrooms are smaller, many people feel they can take a risk with paint or wallpaper because it is easier and less expensive to change out should you get sick of it in a few years. 

Wallpaper adds a fun element to your bathroom while adding in color and keeping the room light. 

Natural Elements

For those who think wallpaper is too risky, incorporating nature into the bathroom remains a trend. Natural materials, including wood cabinets, slate showers, or bamboo decor can help bring the outdoors in. 

Hooks and Hardware

Hardware is like the jewelry of the room. People are turning away from towel bars and installing unique hooks in all shapes, sizes, and finishes. Mixing and matching hardware finishes in bathrooms creates an eclectic look. 

Heated Floors

Once considered a luxury, heated floors in the bathroom are becoming more mainstream. Electric radiant floor heating systems are energy efficient and many can be controlled directly from your phone. Plus, the toasty warm floor feels incredible on a cold winter day!

What does your dream bathroom look like?