Tag: Residences at 66 High Street

flooring options

Top Flooring Options

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

There are countless options when it comes to flooring. Thanks to improved manufacturing, even the most affordable options have improved in terms of durability and design. Whether you want to replace flooring throughout your entire home or just want to refresh a room, keep reading for more on today’s most popular flooring options!

Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood’s appearance continues to make it a top choice for homeowners. While hardwood is one of the more expensive flooring types, it is easy to clean and lasts for years. Hardwood floors can also be refinished every 3 to 5 years for optimal upkeep.

Best For: 

  • Resale Value
  • Whole house flooring
  • Beautiful aesthetic

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring comes with a long list of advantages: affordable, durable, and easy to install. In addition, laminate looks and feels like authentic wood flooring. However, it is prone to moisture damage and can be difficult to repair. 

Best For:

  • High-traffic areas
  • Affordability
  • Radiant Heat

Porcelain or Ceramic Tile

Porcelain or ceramic tile comes in countless design options, allowing you to fully customize a space. This durable and non-porous flooring options make it waterproof and easy to maintain. On the downside, porcelain or ceramic tile can chip or scratch under heavy use, but you have the option of replacing individual tiles rather than the entire floor. 

Best For: 

  • Pets
  • Kitchens and bathrooms 
  • Fire resistance

Carpet

Carpet creates a soft, cozy feel that helps to cut down on noise. Carpet is one of the most affordable flooring options, but does require regular upkeep and can stain. 

Best For:

  • Affordability
  • Bedrooms and family rooms
  • Children and the elderly 

Natural Stone

Granite, marble, travertine, and sandstone are all classic natural stone flooring options. Natural stone flooring ranges in durability, affordability, and maintenance, depending on the type of stone you choose. 

Best For: 

  • Beautiful aesthetic
  • Resale value
  • Radiant heat

Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring has come a long way in recent years. No longer just a cheap alternative, vinyl flooring can mimic just about anything: wood, ceramic, natural stone, and more. This highly versatile and durable flooring can be used almost anywhere in the home.

Best For:

  • High traffic areas
  • Affordability
  • DIY installation

Which flooring type is your favorite? Head to The Social Redesign Facebook or Instagram page to vote on flooring for the new unit at 66 High Street!

kitchen cabinets

5 Steps to Choosing Kitchen Cabinets

Posted on by Nicole White in Kitchen

A kitchen isn’t complete without cabinets. 

Essential for storage and a huge factor in kitchen style, cabinets are one of the first things people want to change in their own kitchens. But walking into a store can feel overwhelming. The choices are endless, and even after you think you’ve chosen a model, you have multiple options for color, hardware, and layout.

Keep reading to learn more about my process for choosing the perfect kitchen cabinets for your kitchen.

1. Choose a Cabinet Door Style 

Cabinets take up a lot of space in the kitchen, which means they are visible from every angle. Step one is to select a cabinet door style. 

When you are selecting a door profile, don’t get stuck on the color just yet, as the store models don’t come in every color available. We always recommend going to the store to see cabinet styles in person, and narrow down your selection to three or four options. Take pictures of the styles you like, so that you don’t forget and have to start over on your next visit!

2. Color and Finish

Once you have selected a cabinet door style, select the color and finish of your cabinets. All white in the kitchen has been popular for the past few years, with a timeless, clean look that can be played off of with pops of color throughout the rest of the kitchen. A natural wood finish is also always in style. 

Color is making a comeback in kitchens. Full color on cabinets and countertops create sa bold statement, while two-tone (white counters with colored cabinets, or vice versa) gives you a balance. 

3. Storage and Organization

Deciding on a kitchen layout and mapping out the cabinets you need for optimal storage is next up in our process to the perfect kitchen cabinets. With incredible storage options, you can get everything from spice racks, pull out drawers, deep drawers, and high cabinets. Being selective and purposeful in laying out the cabinets will help you plan a kitchen that will be easy to maneuver. 

4. Hardware

Next up is selecting hardware. The hardware you choose can make a kitchen appear modern, traditional, country, or rustic. Decide if you want knobs or pulls, and then narrow it down to the style that fits your vision. 

If new cabinets aren’t in your budget, consider swapping out the hardware. This alone can completely change the look of your kitchen. 

5. Practicality

Another factor to consider is practical, especially when it comes to cleaning. This can be a big factor in choosing the color, finish, and even the door profile. Think about your everyday lifestyle to help you stay practical in your choices. 

This week, you can vote on cabinet color for the new unit at Residences at 66 High Street! Go to Facebook or Instagram to cast your vote today!

You’re Invited: Join us on the Parade of Homes tour!

Posted on by Nicole White in Social [RE]design

It’s hard to believe, but we’re about halfway through the build for the new unit at the Residences at 66 High Street! 

Your votes are helping the Horton Group, Maryellen Sullivan, and I put the finishing touches on what is sure to be an astounding unit. Every week, we’re excited to learn what the winning vote is, as the vision is coming closer to completion. 

In case you’ve forgotten, here’s a rundown of your winning votes so far:

  • An accent wall in the foyer. 
  • A classic fireplace.
  • An office with organic and earthy vibes. 
  • A pocket door for the kitchen pantry. 
  • Matte black fixtures in the bathroom.
  • Graphite paint by Benjamin Moore in the guest bedroom. 

Come see the progress for yourself!

The Residences at 66 High Street is part of this year’s Parade of Homes. When I knew the development was going to be a part of the parade, I thought, why not turn it into a mid-build party?

Join us this weekend, take a tour of the development, grab some fall refreshments, and see the progress of the new unit that you are voting on! The 2020 Parade of Homes, put on by the Hombuilders & Remodelers Association of Central Connecticut, is taking place on October 17th and 18th from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. 

Not only will you get a chance to explore Horton Group’s award-winning development, but you’ll be able to use your tickets to visit over 20 homes in central Connecticut, meet the state’s top developers and builders, learn about the latest home design trends, and be entered to win some incredible prizes. 

Grab your tickets today and join us at 66 High Street this weekend!

dark paint in bedroom

Dark & Moody: How to Incorporate Dark Paint in the Bedroom

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

Neutral colors ranging from grays to blues, and off-whites to beiges, are popular in interior design. 

But nothing makes a statement like a dark paint color. 

Many people shy away from dark paint because they think it will make the room feel small and cold. When designed correctly, dark hues can create a space that feels glamorous, contemporary, and even spacious. When used in the bedroom, dark colors set the tone for a calming space and a good night’s rest.

Keep reading for tips on incorporating dark paint into the bedroom. 

Consider the Ceiling and Flooring

Dark walls need to be balanced. If you darken the ceiling along with the walls, you risk a cave-like space. Instead, opt for a white ceiling to open the space overhead, creating an airy feeling. As far as flooring, light-colored hardwood, or a light area rug can bring in the contrast you need. 

Lighten Up the Furniture

520

In addition to keeping the ceiling and floors light, the right furniture helps to balance dark walls. In fact, light furniture against dark walls can trick the eye into thinking the room has more natural light, making it appear larger. It doesn’t have to stop with furniture! In the bedroom, you can also bring in light colors with light fixtures, bedding, decor, and curtains.

Highlight Your Art

A dark wall creates the perfect backdrop for displaying colorful artwork. In many cases, the dark background creates a more visually appealing contrast than neutral or light walls. Hang one large statement piece above the bed for a dramatic effect, or create a gallery wall with several of your favorite pieces. Art brightens up any space, and makes your bedroom truly unique. 

Start with One Wall

If going dark is still intimidating, start with an accent wall. Paint one wall your choice color, while keeping the other walls light. This adds the dramatic effect you’re looking for without committing to all four walls. It’s also a great option if your bedroom has little natural light. 

Still unsure about going dark? Start by helping us decide what Benjamin Moore paint color to paint the guest bedroom at 66 High Street. Vote on Facebook or Instagram, and stay tuned to see how it turns out!

bathroom faucet finishes

10 Bathroom Faucet Finishes

Posted on by Nicole White in Bathroom

A seemingly small feature, the faucet can either be designed to blend in or make a bold statement in the bathroom. 

Faucets come in a variety of options: from silver to gold tones, from matte to shiny. Selecting a finish that matches your style will elevate your bathroom. Bathroom faucets often come with a lifetime warranty, so if you select one you love, it will last!

Below are 10 of the most popular finishes for bathroom faucets!

Chrome

Chrome is versatile, able to be used as a decorative or protective finish. It is shiny and polished. 

Pros: Chrome is a light metal, resistant to corrosion, and a cheap option. 

Cons: Chrome can scratch easily and shows water spots.

Style: Chrome goes with just about every style: traditional, modern, eclectic, and contemporary!

Polished Nickel

Polished nickel has a smooth, shiny finish. Compared to chrome, polished nickel has a darker, warmer tone. It can also appear to change color, depending on the lighting.  

Pros: Easy to clean with a durable finish. 

Cons: Shows water spots and fingerprints easily. More expensive than other finishes.

Style: Polished nickel goes with just about every style: traditional, modern, eclectic, and contemporary!

Brushed Nickel

Brushed nickel gives a soft metallic look with a matte sheen. 

Pros: Extremely durable, with a longer life than other finishes. Brushed nickel is also easy to clean.

Cons: More expensive than other finishes and does not coordinate well with stainless steel.

Style: Brushed nickel goes with just about every style: traditional, modern, eclectic, and contemporary!

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel has a shiny, reflective surface that is affordable and durable. 

Pros: Resistant to scratches and corrosion, easy to clean. 

Cons: More expensive than other finishes, shows fingerprints easily.

Style: Modern, contemporary, industrial, and traditional. 

Satin Brass

Satin brass, also called brushed brass, has a muted golden color, with a matte finish. 

Pros: Creates a bold statement in the bathroom. The matte finish does not show watermarks or fingerprints easily.

Cons: Satin brass is more expensive and harder to find than other finishes. 

Style: Satin brass goes with traditional, contemporary, and modern design. 

Polished Brass

Polished brass provides a bright, shiny golden finish.

Pros: Easy to clean. Polished brass is also durable. 

Cons: More expensive than other finishes. Likely to show fingerprints and water spots. 

Style: Polished brass works well with traditional and vintage design. 

Satin Bronze

Satin bronze has a smooth finish with a color in between copper and oil-rubbed bronze.

Pros: Easy to clean and maintain. Satin bronze does not show fingerprints.

Cons: Satin bronze can be expensive and hard to find. 

Style: Satin bronze works with traditional and eclectic design. 

Oil-Rubbed Bronze

Oil-rubbed bronze is chemically darkened and can vary from dark brown to dark gray. 

Pros: Durable, easy to clean, and doesn’t show marks easily. 

Cons: More expensive than other finishes

Style: Oil-rubbed bronze works in traditional and antique bathrooms. 

Copper

Copper has a bold, unmistakable color that provides a rich feeling. 

Pros: Copper protects the faucet against corrosion. Scratches on copper eventually darken and blend in. 

Cons: Copper is not as durable as other finishes and requires more maintenance. 

Style: Copper is a great fit for farmhouse, eclectic, and mid-century design.

Matte Black

A powder coating applied to steel, brass, or iron produces a matte black finish. 

Pros: Easy to clean and does not show fingerprints or watermarks. 

Cons: More expensive compared to other finishes. 

Style: Matte black faucets work with modern, minimalist, and eclectic styles. 

This week, help us select your favorite faucet for the bathroom at 66 High Street! Vote today on Facebook or Instagram. 

home office

2020 Home Office Trends

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

This year, the home office has moved from ‘an added benefit’ to a ‘must-have’ on buyer checklists. For those who aren’t buying a new home, the make-shift home office at the kitchen table is no longer acceptable. 

If you work from home, it’s time to create a space that you love! Take a look at some home office trends that work whether you have an entire room to yourself or a corner nook with a desk. 

Colors that Inspire

Start with a color theme that inspires you. Organic and earthy grays, sage greens, and browns create a space that brings in elements of nature. This look is both calming and minimalistic in design. Bright and energetic colors liven up a space, creating a cheerful workspace. Finally, the monochromatic and bold theme is ideal for those who love a clean, modern look. 

This week, vote on the color theme for the office at Residences at 66 High Street!

Ergonomics 

Office ergonomics help you stay comfortable while you work, and are especially important if you sit in front of a computer all day. Ergonomics include adjusting your chair so knees are level with hips, setting up your computer so the screen is at eye level, and a keyboard level that keeps hands at or below the elbow. 

Here are some pieces you can incorporate for an ergonomic workstation:

  • Laptop stand with a separate keyboard and mouse.
  • Adjustable or standing desk.
  • Footrest.
  • Ergonomic office chair.

Organization: Less is More

No matter what color theme or type of furniture you choose, keeping your workspace organized is essential. Trending home office designs keep it simple. Use floating shelves to hold containers with office supplies, keeping clutter off of your desk. For those who prefer to keep supplies out of sight, a desk with one to two drawers is enough to store essentials. 

Zoom Worthy Backdrops

Zoom is the new conference call. While there are virtual backgrounds you can use, many are designing their space to include a backdrop they can proudly display on calls. An organized bookshelf, accent wall, or piece of art are all options. For those who want to be a bit more creative, you can use magazines or photos to create your own wall of inspiration. 

What does your ideal office look like? Let me know in the comments!

gas fireplaces

6 Benefits of Gas Fireplaces

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

There’s nothing like a cozy fire to warm you up during New England winters. A gentle fire changes the ambiance and lighting of any room, not to mention the temperature. 

This week’s votes will help us determine what style of gas fireplace to install in the new unit at the Residences at 66 High Street. You may be thinking:

Why a gas fireplace? 

Wood-burning fireplaces and woodstoves certainly have their benefits, but a gas fireplace adds much more to a home. Keep reading for my top 6 benefits of gas fireplaces. 

Controllable Heat

The main benefit of any type of fireplace is the heat. With a gas fireplace, the heat is easily controlled by a button or remote. The fire starts up immediately, eliminating the skills needed to get a fire going, and set your desired temperature. Remote thermostats make it easy to get the perfect temperature and program your heat. When you are ready to leave the house or go to bed, the fire turns off with another button. 

Safe

Gas fireplaces offer a level of safety far above other options. Proper ventilation ensures all emissions are released outside the home, maintaining indoor air quality. In addition, mesh safety screens and glass safety barriers keep children and pets safe from hot surfaces. 

High-Efficiency Saves Money

It can be nerve-wracking to open the first heating bill during winter. Gas fireplaces are high-efficiency heating appliances that can be programmed and used for zoned heating. This allows you to turn down the average temperature throughout the house, and add extra heat to the rooms you utilize the most. Used properly, and you’ll see your utility bill begin to drop!

Minimal Effort and Maintenance

There is no need to gather and chop wood with a gas fireplace. Entirely self-sufficient, you don’t have to add pellets or wood chips. Simply turn on and off as you desire. Once a year, an annual maintenance check by a professional is required, and even that just requires you to call and schedule their visit!

Add Value to the Home

As a real estate agent, I can tell you buyers love to see a working fireplace in listings. If the fireplace is easy to operate and maintain, it becomes even more appealing. In fact, a new fireplace can return up to 91% of its investment when selling a home!  

Match Your Style

Now for the fun part! Gas fireplaces come in a variety of styles, elevating the design of any room. You can make a gas fireplace the focal point of a room with a modern linear fireplace with one, two, or three sides. If traditional is more your style, keep a classic look with a facade and mantle. For a vintage look, opt for a mid-century gas fireplace. When you add color options, size, and shape of the fireplace, the design choices are endless!

This week, you can help me select the style of the gas fireplace at 66 High Street! Head to The Social [RE]design Facebook or Instagram to vote today!

entryway design

3 Ways to Transform Your Entryway

Posted on by Nicole White in Home Design

Large living spaces often steal the limelight when it comes to home design.

But there’s no denying that a well-designed entryway causes people to pause and take notice. It is, after all, the first and last impression of a home. 

So what makes a foyer stand out? Benches, built-ins, and decor are all options, but they can clutter up a small space and end up collecting dust. 

With an entryway, less is often more. One accent – whether it’s the ceiling, floor, or wall – is enough to make a statement you and your guests will love for years to come. 

Accent Ceiling

A detailed ceiling draws the eye up, immediately creating a sense of awe. Some builders add this in during the construction phase with a double-height ceiling in the entrance. If that is not the case in your home, you can still add some wonder to the ceiling with paneling, exposed beams, or intricate crown molding. 

Accent Flooring

Instead of focusing on the ceiling, make your floor stand out. The foyer is the perfect place to incorporate special flooring, distinguishing the area from your main living areas with a pop of color or intricate design. Since the surface area is small, it’s also an opportunity to incorporate that gorgeous tile you’ve been eyeing that doesn’t quite fit the budget. If new flooring isn’t an option in the near future, consider a unique rug to add a new dimension to your entrance. 

Accent Wall

An accent wall can also make a great feature in the entryway. A simple way to create an accent wall is with bold paint color on one wall. If you want to be more daring, a new texture with paneling or molding is sure to catch the eye. Accent walls are perfect for where guests hang their coats or next to a sitting area of the entrance. 

Which is your favorite type of accent – ceiling, floor, or wall? Be sure to cast your vote on The Social REdeisgn Facebook page! 

residences at 66 high street

First up: Residences at 66 High Street

Posted on by Nicole White in Social [RE]design

You may have already heard the news: my first project with the Social REdesign is in a brand new unit at the Residences at 66 High Street. 

What you don’t know is how incredibly special this is for me. residences

Not just because it’s the first design in this new venture, but because I am working with a group of industry professionals with the same passion for excellence and quality as me. The team at the Horton Group, including Interior Designer Maryellen Sullivan, is one I’ve gotten to know well over the years. The opportunity for us to design a new unit with all of YOU is indescribable. 

Hometown Pride

I’m a Guilford girl. Always have been. 

Guilford is a unique community on the Connecticut shoreline. Filled with local shops and restaurants, many owned by town residents, the Town Green brings people together year after year. With a train station for easy access to cities, a small-town feel, and beaches and hiking trails all around, it’s quite simply my favorite place.  

When I first heard about the Horton Group’s plan for the old Mill Building at 66 High Street, I was immediately intrigued. Their vision was bold: build the premier luxury development in the state – part historic renovation, part new build – walking distance to downtown. What could be better?

About 66 High Street

The Residences at 66 High Street are a blend of luxury and history – not to mention an incredible location. The first building on site is a beautifully restored mill building. Originally built in 1884, the mill once made everything from lollipops to torpedo switches. I love the original features that remain intact: old mill trusses, refurbished factory lights, brick, and exposed beams.  

Named after Guilford’s original settlers, the Whitefield and Leete are brand new buildings, and the Chittenden is soon to be built. The attention to detail is apparent everywhere: the landscaping, unit finishes, even the hallways. 

Exclusive Listing Agent

Almost three years ago, I became one of the exclusive listing agents for the new development. Working with Kenny Horton and his team, I’ve learned the ins and outs of the property, am familiar with every single unit, and have become part of the special community the residents created. My work at One + Company has helped fill the units with incredible people who love Guilford (almost) as much as I do. 

Award-Winning and Record-Breaking Development

If you haven’t heard about the Residences at 66 High Street yet, get ready to get excited!

Just this month, our latest sale was of the Leete Building penthouse, which broke two New Haven County records for the highest sale for a condo unit (at $3.65 Million) and highest price per square foot (over $912 per square foot). 

In addition, the development has won 10 HOBI Awards since 2016, including Best Luxury Condominium Community, Best Luxury Condominium Unit, Best Luxury Townhouse, and Best Historic Rehab Overall.

Do you see why I’m so excited now?

Starting next week, get ready to help me, Maryellen Sullivan, and the Horton Group design the newest unit in the Leete Building at the Residences at 66 High Street!