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The much beloved backsplash: a feature many viewers wait in anticipation to be revealed on their favorite HGTV show. If you’re considering a remodel, your designer will almost certainly ask you, backsplash or no? Despite the popularity of the backsplash many remodelers ask, is it really necessary? Little do they know, the backsplash provides form and function. A backsplash protects from the myriad of agents that can hurt your kitchen walls: Grease, harsh cleaners, water, and food splashes. In the old days, people used linoleum and laminate to make cleaning food splatter a bit easier. Nowadays, the kitchen backsplash is utilized to add interest, color, texture, and beauty to a kitchen. Installing a backsplash in a material different from kitchen counters adds an element of surprise and can quickly put some wow in your kitchen. Here are some fun ideas to inspire you for your next remodel: Patterns: Patterned backsplashes are a great way to add art and interest to a plain kitchen and make it a memorable place to make warm memories. This floral backsplash adds a splash of color to a simple English country kitchen. Vintage: This aluminum backsplash with fleur de lis pattern adds a touch of vintage and old ornate décor with a brush of silver. This retro black and white tile backsplash is a fun throwback with an exciting graphic. The checkers take a plain wall and provide movement and energy. Marble One of the hottest new design trends is incorporating marble. It looks luxurious, provides interesting texture, and can take any room from good to grand. Try a gigantic slab for maximum impact, or a unique pattern like the herringbone below. Au Naturale An unexpected choice for a backsplash is one of nature’s favorite materials: wood. Both of these unique uses of wood add warmth to a cool kitchen. An excellent solution for designers and remodelers looking to make a sterile kitchen a bit cozier. Try reclaimed wood for an Eco-friendly, updated choice. Color: This paneled backsplash adds an unexpected pop of color. This is a groutless option made of a decorative acrylic resin. This particular acrylic is manufactured using pre-consumer-waste aluminum flake. The deep blue pops against the warm-toned wood. An acrylic backsplash can add a touch of glitz to complement the natural feel of the cabinets. This earthy green tile is simple and adds a new dimension of texture against the earthy wooden island and cabinets. Statement: This sunburst pattern was named House Beautiful’s kitchen of the year. This corner is the wet-bar portion of the kitchen and is made from gold-striped Calcutta marble tiles. This sunburst pattern adds some glitz with gold, and is a really unique way to make a statement. Perfect for a formal dining experience in your kitchen. This scallop tile hints at the ocean in an elegant, understated way with a bit of shimmer. The tile ties in the verdigris, the beautiful rusted color lining the inside of the lantern fixtures. A backsplash is a wonderful way to incorporate texture and style to your home.

Remodeling your primary bathroom can feel overwhelming especially when there are so many choices to make. Whether you are working with a designer or doing the project yourself, here are three important must-haves to incorporate into your bathroom remodel. 1. PROPER LIGHTING Lighting in a bathroom should not only make your space look inviting, but also give you the appropriate light necessary for tasks such as grooming and makeup application. Since there is not one type of light that will give you everything you need, it’s important to use different types of lighting and lighting temperatures to achieve the desired effect. Photo Credit by Shades of Light To understand lighting, it is essential you know about color temperature and color rendering index (CRI). Color temperature is measured in Kelvin (K), and it refers to what type of light the bulb or fixture provides. To give you a reference, if you step outside, neutral daylight is about 6500K. Candlelight is about 1800K. In other words, the lower the Kelvin, the warmer the light and the higher the Kelvin the cooler the light. CRI measures the ability of a light source to accurately reproduce colors of the object it illuminates. It has a score up to 100. Look for a CRI of at least 80 –the higher CRI the better. The CRI score will be displayed on the packaging. We always recommend layering your lighting—task lighting for grooming/makeup, ambient lighting for ambiance , decorative and accent lighting for accessorizing. Decorative and accent lighting is optional and depends on your bathroom design and space, so a smaller bath may just need task and ambient lighting. A combination of recessed ceiling lights, wall-mounted sconces, pendants or chandeliers will achieve the layered light effect. Typically, our designers do recessed ceiling lights at approximately 4000K and wall mounted and decorative lighting at approximately 3000K. That way if you’re applying makeup for the daytime, you will primarily use your ceiling lights since they are a higher Kelvin to represent daylight more accurately. Going out at night? It’s best to primarily use your wall mounted and decorative lights to give you a replication of warm, nighttime lighting. Photo Credit by Ylighting Ideas 2. AMPLE STORAGE Rarely, do we have clients that say they don’t need more storage. If your primary bathroom is on smaller size, don’t be discouraged. There are many options you may not be aware of to gain you more space. For example, linen closets—most linen closets have a lot of wasted space or areas that are not easy to access. Our designers will often take the space of an existing linen closet and turn it into cabinetry, using pullouts and organizers so every inch of space can be utilized. Another smart way to gain storage is to create recessed storage that doubles as a full or partial length mirror. You will be amazed at how many items you can store, and the best part is no one will never know what’s behind the mirror! To achieve a sleek, clean look on the vanity, having a landing spot for your electric razor, toothbrushes, lotions, makeup, hair styling tools is a must. Using a vanity organizer is a great solution. The best part is your electrician can put outlets in the organizing drawer, so you never again have to pull out your grooming tools and place them on the counter! The inserts are made of metal, so items like flat irons have a safe home when they are cooling. Even if you don’t do a vanity organizer, you can still install outlets on the back wall of your cabinets for your plug-in items— just make sure you have a long enough cord to be able to use your grooming tools. 3. FULL-PROOF GROUT Unless you are experienced in tile installation, what type of grout to use probably has never crossed your mind. If you currently have an older shower, your grout probably has taken a beating with stains, mildew, and chipping. Based on our experience, the best grout especially for shower floors is called Fusion Pro made by Custom Building Products. It is the most stain resistant and has the best color consistency. If you color your hair at home, rest assured that even the most vibrant hair dye will not seep into the grout! The Fusion grout does not require sealing, and although it easy to apply and clean, there is a learning curve to the application process since it varies slightly from standard grout. You or your tile setter need to grout small sections one at a time and use very little water. Additionally, using a microfiber cloth for haze cleanup and keeping the grout dry for seven days after application is imperative. By utilizing these three must-have pro tips, your primary bathroom remodel will not only look beautiful but will be highly functional as well. Need assistance with your bathroom remodel? Please contact Living Space Designs at 520-354-2136 to discuss your design and remodeling needs and set up a complimentary consultation!

It’s December, which means all of the holiday festivities are at their peak. It’s such a fun time to get together with loved ones and create memories. As you prepare and plan for your upcoming duties as a party host this holiday season or in the new year, ask yourself, “ is my kitchen ready for all that goes along with hosting a party ?” If not, that’s ok! Keep reading to learn tips for creating a party-ready kitchen. Create a Plan in Advance As you think about hosting a party, there are several questions to ask yourself to ensure your end result is what you envisioned. The most important question is… How do I want to feel before, during, and after hosting this party? Your answers will determine how to proceed. For example, if you want to feel organized before your party-goers arrive, then you must plan ahead, create to-do lists, have your shopping, prepping, cleaning, and decorating (if applicable) complete days before to avoid feeling overwhelmed, frantic, and exhausted the day of your event. If you want to feel relaxed during the party so you can enjoy your guests, then you need to make sure your food is table-ready when guests arrive and provide a self-service bar. If you want to feel energized at the end of the party when guests depart, then you probably want to use easy-to-clean and/or disposable dishware so you have minimal cleanup. Other important questions are... What is the overall party vibe I want to achieve? Do I want just finger foods for guests to graze on throughout the event or a sit-down meal? Do I want any entertainment--games, party themes, music, etc. Do I want to make all food from scratch, have it be the “Best of Costco” prepared foods or a combo of both? Clean Up Before, During, and After your Event The last scenario you want is a messy house and a bunch of dishes to clean minutes before your guests arrive. Tidy the house and decorate (if doing a themed party) at least 24 hrs. ahead. Whenever you start cooking for your party (it could be days before), start with an organized kitchen, and do dishes continually throughout the prep and cooking process. Letting pots, pans and dishes pile up until all cooking is finished is a total buzz kill! Photo Credit by Vogue Open up the Floor Plan Look for areas in your kitchen that may bottleneck and see if you are able to open up that area. Having your guest congregate in your cooking or prepping space will drive you crazy, so it is essential to create alternative gathering areas for your guests.The more space you can create the better. Set up a temporary table against a wall in the living or dining room to add more space for party food or for meal prepping beforehand. While opening up the floor plan, don’t forget to add extra seating so your guests have somewhere to relax. Provide a Beverage Bar When planning for your party, set up a space for a beverage bar. Whether it is a fold-out table (with a festive tablecloth) or using a separate counter space in your kitchen for drinks, make it easily accessible for people to get refills throughout the party. If using one-time use cups, consider putting a permanent marker at the beverage table so people can write their name on their cup and keep using the same cup throughout your party. Photo Credit by BoomPix & Living Space Designs Decorate Smarter not Harder Contrary to many opinions, your party decor does not have to be over the top! If you want your guests to take home a piece of the party, make your party decorations double as party favors. If your party is during the holidays, use the decorations you already have up at your home as the focal point. For any other time of the year, just focus on two or three areas to make a decorative splash. Making your Cleaning Up not be a Party Foul Make sure the trash can is in a place that your guests can easily access. Don’t be afraid to ask someone or even have a designated trash person to keep the trash from overflowing during your party. If using reusable dinnerware, have a bin set up near the sink for the guests to put their dirty dishes in. Have reusable containers ready to put the leftover food in and either give it to guests to take home or pop it in your fridge to enjoy later on. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help with cleaning up once the festivities are over. Most people love to help, but often don’t ask or know what to do. You Deserve a Party-Ready Kitchen The best thing about these tips is that they can be applied to any party, not just at the holidays! So whether you are hosting a birthday party or a family dinner, your kitchen can look fantastic, and be ready to host a memorable party. Ready for a kitchen upgrade? Keep us in mind for your kitchen remodel needs! Entertaining comes with its own set of challenges and needs, and if you have guests over often, it may be worthwhile to adjust the form and function of your kitchen to account for a crowd rather than simply for your immediate family.

Photo Credit by Living Space Designs Do you feel… Frustrated because you want to paint the interior of your house but feel overwhelmed about what paint colors to choose? Uncertain about where to put up paint samples? Confused about what paint sheen to use? Clueless if you should prime your walls especially if you are using a similar color palette? If you want to learn how to paint like a pro, it is important to understand painting your home is a process that is comprised of several steps. Please continue reading to learn our four fabulous tips so you can approach any painting project like a design professional! Tip #1: Choose the Right Color Palette When tackling a DIY painting project whether it is the whole interior or just one room, the key is creating a cohesive look throughout your house. You want your space to feel inviting and have a visual flow. Photo Credit by Sherwin Williams If you are painting the whole interior and you want to incorporate color into different rooms, a good rule of thumb is to use no more than three colors for a 2,000 sq/ft. space. It is best to have one neutral color running through the main living areas, foyer, and hallways, and choose complimentary colors for adjacent areas like powder rooms, dens, and bedrooms. Please be aware when using one neutral color for your main living areas and hallways, the color can look quite different in each area due to how much natural lighting is in each space as well as the general configuration of the area. It is common for the paint to appear as if it is a completely different color. When choosing multiple paint colors, be sure to use the same temperature--all warm tones or all cool tones to create a cohesive look. Use a color chart or paint chip sample that feature several colors in the same palette starting from lightest to darkest. This ensures all colors will flow together. Painting an accent wall is an effective way to introduce color into a room without it overwhelming the space. Bring in colored accessories and decor in the main living areas to match the paint color in adjacent rooms to tie the whole look together If you are redoing your flooring or carpeting, make sure to pick it first before you are choosing your paint colors. Photo Credit by Benjamin Moore Tip #2: Be Strategic Where to Put up Paint Samples Test at least two or more samples per color you are considering. Make your samples 12”x12” if possible. Photo Credit by The Spruce Make sure to put up the samples directly on the walls and not on poster board. Although it is not visually appealing to see several samples on the wall, you get the most realistic idea of how the paint will look since it adheres differently to the wall then it does to the poster board. The existing paint color on the walls will affect what your sample looks like. Be aware colors will appear darker against a light wall and lighter against dark walls. Put samples up on multiple walls within one room focusing on the where the light hits different areas. Look at the samples in the morning, midday, and evening. Use two coats of paint when putting up your samples, and if you are testing a saturated or bright color like red, purple or orange use a primer first. Tip #3: Use the Correct Sheen Sheen refers to how shiny your paint appears when it is on the painted surface, and you want to use different sheens based on what you are painting. Choosing the right sheen can be confusing since each paint manufacturer has different names for their sheens. In a nutshell, the lower sheens are the least stain resistant, hides the most imperfections, and used most in painting interior walls. The higher sheens have the most stain resistance, show the most imperfections, and are used for accents like trim, baseboards, and doors. See below our recommendations for sheens for interior painting: Ceilings : Flat (the lowest sheen). Interior walls: One up from flat (referred to as eggshell, velvet, or matte depending on manufacturer). Baseboards, trim, interior doors : Two up from flat (usually called satin with most manufacturers). If you have young children or other extremely high traffic areas, you may want to use a sheen two up from flat since the walls are easy to wipe down and clean. Be aware with this sheen it will produce quite a bit of shine. Tip #4: Know When to Use Primer Primer essentially acts as a foundation layer for your paint giving your completed painting project an even appearance, but it is not always necessary. If primer is needed, general rule is using one coat of primer if using a high-quality product and two coats of paint. If you have fresh drywall, use primer because the drywall mud absorbs paint more than previously painted surfaces. If you have any patches over 2” in diameter or multiple patches, the primer will give you a smooth look before you apply the paint. Think of a person who has facial blemishes. If she applies foundation to her skin, it will hide much of the imperfections. Primer achieves a similar result. Bright, saturated, and primary colors require priming because the paint has higher concentrations of pigment which does not provide good coverage. In other words, the more pigment, the less coverage the paint will give you. The same goes for if you are painting over bright, saturated, or primary colors. You do not have to get your primer tinted if you are painting a neutral color. Use primer when painting over walls that are shiny since the higher sheens do not absorb paint as well. If you are painting over oil-based paint, you must use a primer. If you are not sure it is oil paint, take a rag with nail polish remover containing acetone and rub a small circle for about 10 seconds. If paint stays intact but is mildly sticky, it is oil paint. If it gets gooey and comes off, it is latex. Photo Credit by Becca Interiors Summary Hopefully, you now have the confidence and knowledge to tackle your interior painting projects like a design professional after learning our four tips. 1. Choose the Right Color Palette. 2. Be Strategic Where to Put up Paint Samples. 3. Use the Correct Sheen. 4. Know When to Use Primer. Remember to keep us in mind if you are ready to remodel any of your interior spaces in 2022!

Photo Credit by Bamboo Family Unless you are dead set on hardwood, bamboo, traditional tile or stone, one of the best flooring options is rigid core luxury vinyl. There are several types of luxury vinyl on the market, but hands down rigid core is the premier product in luxury vinyl. Here’s Why Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl is our Top Choice: It is one of the most durable waterproof floorings on the market. It is affordable. It comes in beautiful stone and wood looks. It is easy to install and can be floated over any existing hard surface like tile. Photo Credit by Houzz Here’s What you Need to Know: Luxury Vinyl has two acronyms: LVT (luxury vinyl tile) and LVP (luxury vinyl planks). LVT refers to the stone tile looks and LVP refers to wood planks. Rigid core luxury vinyl is also known as Stone Plastic Composite or Stone Polymer Composite (SPC). There is another type of luxury vinyl called Wood Plastic Composite (WPC). Although WPC is a decent product, SPC’s durability is similar to concrete since it has a ceramic coating making it a superior product. With most wood, laminate, or vinyl flooring overall thickness it is important and thicker usually equals better quality. The exception to this “thickness rule” is rigid core because it is manufactured specifically to be thin yet ultra-tough. The overall thickness will be no more than 6 mm and it has four layers. Where the thickness counts with rigid core is in the wear layer. The wear layer is your “armor” that protects the flooring from dents and scratches. For residential use, 12 MIL wear layer is totally adequate, but it does go up to 22 MIL for highly trafficked commercial spaces. Benefits of Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl Low maintenance so just vacuum and wet mop and it’s good as new. Excellent for kids, pets, and busy households due to its durability. No expansion or contraction issues like you have with hardwood or bamboo so no need to worry about extreme temperature changes. Phthalate Free and Low VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Look for brands that have a Greenguard certification and FloorScore to ensure your flooring has a very low toxicity for your family and your environment. 100% waterproof so you do not need to be concerned about moisture issues. Sound absorbent so it is an ideal choice for putting it upstairs in a two-story home or business. Photo Credit by Eternity Flooring Downside of Rigid Core Luxury Vinyl SPC flooring is more expensive than WPC, but prices are coming down since many companies are making their own brands of SPC. It is a competitively priced flooring option and is priced less than hardwood. Even though SPC is 100% waterproof and safe for bathrooms, we recommend only putting it in a secondary bathroom where bathing is occasional like a guest bath or in a powder room. Conclusion Putting new flooring throughout your home is a big investment, so it is important to go with a flooring choice that not only looks beautiful but is able to withstand your lifestyle and still look like new after several years. In our opinion, that’s why rigid core luxury vinyl is one of our top choices! If you are thinking about remodeling your kitchen, baths, or any other interior spaces including flooring— Living Space Designs is here for all your design and remodeling needs. Photo Credit by Trulycarpet.com

Not considering how your home will age with you: If you're planning to stay in your home for the long haul, it's important to think about how your needs may change as you age. For example, reconfiguring your bathroom layout to include features like grab bars and a walk-in shower now can make bathing safer and easier down the road. Failing to plan for storage: No matter how big or small your home is, there's always a need for additional storage . Whether it's finding a place to stash holiday decorations or finding a home for all of your family's sports equipment, forethought about where and how to add storage can save you a lot of headaches (and money) down the road. Overlooking energy efficiency: Making your home more energy-efficient doesn't just help the environment—it can also save you money on your monthly utility bills. When planning a home renovation, be sure to consider ways to increase your home's insulation, install energy-efficient windows and doors, and upgrade to more efficient cooling and heating systems. Skimping on lighting: Good lighting is essential for any room in your home, but it's often an afterthought during a renovation. Be sure to plan for both natural and artificial lighting sources, and consider how you can use both types together to create an enjoyable ambiance. For example, soft white light from a dimmer switch at night can help reduce eyestrain when reading or doing other tasks by the bedside, while natural light streaming in from windows during the day may be just what your home office needs. Not updating your flooring: Updating your flooring is one of the best ways to give your home a fresh new look that will last for years to come. Before you choose which type of flooring to install, it's important to think about how you'll be using each room in your house—different flooring materials work better in different areas of the home. For example, hardwood floors are a popular choice for living and dining areas, but they may not be the best option for high-traffic areas like kitchens and mudrooms. Likewise, the carpeting may be cozy and comfortable underfoot, but it's not always the most practical choice in homes with pets or small children. Not accounting for your furniture: Your furniture can make or break a room, so it's important to take its size and shape into account when planning a home renovation. For example, if you have large pieces of furniture, you'll need to make sure there's enough space for them to fit comfortably in the room. Likewise, if you have tall ceilings, you may want to consider ways to bring that height down to make the room feel cozier and more intimate. Ignoring your home's history: If you're lucky enough to live in an older home, it's important to respect its history when planning a renovation. That doesn't mean you have to keep everything exactly the same, but be sure to consider how any changes you make will impact the overall look and feel of the house. For example, removing original moldings or doorways can significantly alter the character of a room—and not always for the better. Not staying in budget: One of the most common mistakes people make when renovating their homes is not staying in budget. It's important to set a realistic budget for your project and then stick to it as closely as possible. Otherwise, you may find yourself facing some serious financial problems down the road.

Photo Credit by Lushome Can you believe it is already fall? Summer went by quickly. Fall is the time for all things pumpkin, when the leaves change, and sweater weather. You also can't forget about fall celebrations like Halloween and Thanksgiving. No matter what your favorite thing about fall is, there is one easy way to note the change in season, which is through decorating! Keep on reading to get inspired to add seasonal style to your home with a few of our fall decorating ideas. Fall in Love with Pumpkins Did you know that pumpkins usually are planted in May to be ready by the fall? That's a long time, which makes it worth utilizing pumpkins in both your indoor and outdoor fall decorating. With over 45 different pumpkin varieties to choose from, ranging in color and size, the pumpkin decorating ideas are endless. One of the more traditional and well-known ways to decorate with pumpkins is with pumpkin carvings. You can make a day of it with your family, pick out your pumpkins, and then come home, carve them together, and display them on your porch. Pumpkins are also an excellent porch decoration even when they are uncarved. There are many ways to display pumpkins, including mixing various colors and sizes. If you are looking for indoor ideas, consider purchasing more miniature pumpkins and displaying them on your kitchen table as a centerpiece. You can even utilize smaller pumpkins as placeholders at your next Thanksgiving dinner by painting your guest’s names on them. It's a fun way to use pumpkins and personalize your decor at the same time. What's even better than decorating with pumpkins... eating them! Don't just throw away your pumpkins when it comes time to decorate for Christmas. Give a pumpkin recipe a try so that your pumpkins can be used for more than just decorating. Flannel It wouldn't be fall without the coziness of flannel! Flannel is perfect for wearing, decorating, and crafting. Flannel isn't going out of style anytime soon, so it's perfect to utilize in your decorating this fall. Are you having a get-together? Cover your tables with flannel pattern fabric or buy flannel placemats to set on the table. Flannel throw blankets also make lovely fall accents in any room of the house. They are also nice to have in the living room during Thanksgiving in case your guests get chilly. You can even upcycle an old flannel shirt by doing a DIY project. From no sew pillows to coffee cozies, the DIY flannel projects are endless. If this peaks your fall decorating interest, you can find many project ideas on Pinterest or Google. Cozy Touches Fall decorating is all about adding cozy touches to your home and embracing the change of weather. One way to add a cozy touch this fall to your home is with a comfy fall plaid blanket . Bring warmth into any room with the addition of a seasonal blanket. Hues of orange or red will achieve the fall season aesthetic, helping you transform your bedroom look. Add fall-themed throw pillows to your bed and couches to add an extra pop of fall. You can either make a fall-themed pillow or switch out your pillow cover with a fall-themed one. Create a warm welcome the moment you or guests enter your home. Add touches of fall to your front door by hanging a fall wreath. Cozy up this fall by adding touches throughout your home to make you feel comfortable and cozy in your home. Centerpieces Photo Credit by Laurey W. Glenn Styling by Buffy Hargett Miller Incorporate fall decorating into your home with fall-themed centerpieces. The great thing about centerpieces is that they can go in many places throughout your home, including the kitchen, dining room, and living room tables. If crafting or DIY projects is something you enjoy, there are many easy fall centerpieces you can make to decorate your home with this fall. Here are a few centerpiece ideas to get your fall decorating juices flowing: Arrange small pumpkins and pine cones into a vase or bowl. White pumpkins would pair nicely with the brown color of pine cones. Mason jars are always a win for centerpieces, no matter the season. You can fill them up with fresh sunflowers or paint them in a festive fall way. You could also wrap burlap strips around the mason jars for an extra fall flair. Take an old farmhouse pitcher and arrange a wheat bundle inside of the pitcher. The great thing about centerpieces is that you can keep them as simple or make them as intricate as your fall decorating heart desires. Have fun with it and do what works for you are your space. Stay in Style This Season Photo Credit by Pottery Barn There are many ways to use fall decorations throughout your home to create a seasonal escape. Add cozy touches all around your house with these festive and easy ideas. No matter how you decorate your home this fall, have fun with it and do what works for your space! We hope you have a happy fall filled with all of the festive aesthetics your heart desires. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more living space designs and decor inspiration!

Update a neutral kitchen with a bold, orange backsplash. Here are some wonderful bold and bright color ideas from Pantone.

There are a few key things you need to keep in mind when choosing a contractor for your kitchen remodel. Make sure the contractor has experience with kitchen remodels It's important to make sure the contractor has a lot of experience with kitchen remodels. They should know how to handle everything from the demolition process to installing the new cabinets and countertops. Ask them to provide references from past clients who have had similar projects done. This will give you a good idea of their work quality and what to expect from them. This will help ensure that you're hiring a qualified professional who will do a quality job on your kitchen remodel. Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured. This will protect you in case of any accidents or damages that may occur during the project. The contractor's resume will be more convincing with memberships in professional associations. Most people who are active within the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA), National Association of Remodeling Industry (NARI) or Home Builders Organization can promote these affiliations, which adds to their credibility as experienced remodelers. Get an estimate from multiple contractors Be sure to get a written estimate from the contractor before signing anything. This will help avoid any surprises later on in the project. This will give you a good idea of what the project will cost. Compare the estimates and choose the contractor that best fits your budget. Who will be working on the project? The contractor should be able to provide a detailed list of who will be working on the project. This will help you make sure they have the right crew for the job. If it is a subcontractor, they should be able to provide you with a list of their past clients so you can contact them for references. Make sure you are clear on the scope of the project The contractor should be able to provide a detailed outline of what the project will entail, as well as what materials they plan to use. This will help avoid any surprises or unexpected costs later on. Be prepared to make some compromises Remodeling a kitchen can be a big undertaking, and it's likely that not everything you want can be done within your budget. Be prepared to make some compromises so that the finished product is something you'll be happy with. Make sure you're comfortable with the contractor. They should be friendly and easy to communicate with, and you should feel confident that they can handle your project successfully. In summary Looking for a contractor for your kitchen remodel can be daunting, but if you keep these tips in mind, you'll be sure to find the perfect one for your project. Make sure the contractor has experience with kitchen remodels, ask for references from past clients, make sure they are licensed and insured, and get estimates from multiple contractors. Be prepared to make some compromises on your wish list, and most importantly, be comfortable with the contractor. By following these tips, you're sure to have a smooth and successful kitchen remodel!

What do all of the happiest-looking homes have in common? Greenery, and lots of it. Adding plants to your home can help you go green and spruce up your space at the same time. You can try your hand at caring for real plants, opt for faux plants, or even decide to do a mix of both! Plants can be one of the best accessories to add to your home to give it a natural, organic, and inviting look--That’s because plants and nature in general, make us feel happier, calmer, and more relaxed. Photo Wade Griffith Photography Why Go Green Whether you decide to go with faux, live, or a combo of both, you can't go wrong with using plants to spruce up your space! Plants instantly change the atmosphere and add that kick your decor needs to stand out and to feel complete. There are lots of ways in which you can include plants into your home's decor and they don't all involve the classical vases and pots. Indoor plants also enhance the overall appearance of a space. Plants have been shown to provide benefits that include boosting moods, increasing creativity, reducing stress, and eliminating air pollutants — making for a healthier, happier you! Two Tips so your HouseplantsThrive It's easy to hesitate at the thought of adding live plants to your space. You may be unsure of how to care for them or just might feel stuck on which plants to add to your space. The best way to ease your mind is to research plants that can thrive indoors and are low maintenance. The two most important things to consider is making sure the plants you choose have the right type of light, and knowing what their water needs are. 1.Watering: I recommend using a water meter to detect how dry/wet your plants really are because so often the soil appears to be dry but deep down it is still moist. The meters are inexpensive and carried in most hardware stores. The best way to remember your plants' watering needs is to come up with a color-coded sticker system that you place in an inconspicuous place on its pot. For example, for plants that like to be completely dry before watering, use a red sticker. If a plant likes to stay moist, use a green sticker. 2.Lighting: South facing windows , sun-loving plants like Jade, yucca, and pony palms are your best bet. East/West facing windows , plants such as philodendrons, dracena, and ficus will thrive. North-facing windows are best for low-light plants like sansevieria, pothos, and prayer. Four Easy Live Plants to Care For We have listed a few low-maintenance plants to help you get some ideas of live plants to spruce up your space. Snake plant - Beware--No rattlesnakes here ! If you are looking for a hardy plant, then the snake plant is your new best friend. This plant does well in any type of room whether it has low light or is full of bright sunlight. It also does not need a lot of water and doesn't require any additional care. They are great for purifying the air in your home.These plants are resistant to pesky bugs, but be aware their leaves are toxic to children and pets. ZZ Plant The ZZ plant is one of the easiest houseplants to care for because it is virtually indestructible. It thrives in areas where most plants won't. It is great as a bathroom or office plant because it requires very little water (about every 3 weeks) and low light. Spider Plant - Don't worry, there aren't any actual spiders in this plant ! The spider plant is a low-maintenance plant because it thrives in indirect sunlight. It looks great in a hanging pot since it has lots of “baby spiders” that cascade off the main plant. Chinese Money Plant- With this plant, you’ve hit the jackpot. Moderate water needs (about 1x week) and thrives in indirect sunlight. If you like to propagate, this is a great plant as it creates lots of shoots. Propagating is a great way to increase the amount of plants in your home without having to spend a dime! Live plants are a great addition to your home because they liven up your space. They also have a lot of other benefits including increasing humidity, noise reduction, and numerous health benefits. Incorporating Faux Plants You may be avoiding using faux plants because you have seen them displayed in a cheesy way. Faux plants can actually add a lot to your space while looking stylish at the same time. Here are a few tips to help turn your faux plants into something that looks like the real deal. Re-pot your large faux plants. Typically, the pots they come in are way too small for the scale of the plant, making them look unnatural. Getting them out of their original pot can be a bit challenging but it makes all the difference. When you re-pot your faux plant, use real soil, and please do not put that brown moss on top! Get your creative juices flowing and find unique containers to put your plants into so they have a natural, organic look. Put your faux plants where you would normally place real plants but make sure direct sunlight does not hit it . The bright light could highlight the fact it isn’t a real plant. Not all faux plants are the same . Remember to shop higher quality plants for a better look. Good quality plants can be pricey, but keep in mind it is a one-time investment that’s as low maintenance as you can get (except for dusting them occasionally). Avoid going to arts & crafts stores--instead, buy from higher-end furniture and home goods stores since they tend to have the best quality and selection. Not every type of plant looks good as a faux plant --fiddle-leaf fig plants, bamboo palms, cacti, and succulents can be your best bet. Get into Action If you are ready to spruce up your space and make your home feel warm, while contributing to a natural, relaxing ambiance, it is time for you to head to the store and get yourself a cart full of plants be it faux, the real deal, or a combo of both!

There are many things to consider when remodeling your home . It is important to carefully plan and design your project in order to avoid any unnecessary costs or delays. People make up their minds in the first seven seconds of entering a house, and it's true! The front door is where you come into contact with everything about your home. It can also be one if its best features; viewable from every angle (even inside), welcoming upon approach... Homeowners know that a cluttered lawn and overgrown bushes can make you cringe. It's important for your home renovation project to have an immaculate landscape so the outside reflects how wonderful the inside is! Your entryway is the first impression you give to those entering your home. It should be well-lit, regardless of natural light sources or not! Soft wall sconces will provide just enough illumination for an atmosphere that’s welcoming and cozy - while also being able to handle candles if the need arises during evening hours when shadows are longer than usual." Painting your home can be an easy and inexpensive way to give it a facelift without breaking the bank. There are many different colors of paint that will work well with any style or color scheme you have going on in this space, so don't let choosing one stop at just picking out what shades come closest! Freshly painted rooms always look clean ́and updated - which spells value for money when selling off old properties nowadays. Today’s homeowners are looking for open floor plans in their homes. An “open-concept" design involves the living room, kitchen, and dining area being connected by a continuous stretch of space that can be closed off or opened up at will to create different layouts depending on your needs - from entertaining guests during special occasions all the way down to a child birthday party. The modern trend towards blending these important areas together has made this type easy enough not only to appear sophisticated but also to provide convenience with its versatile setups. The bathroom is a place where we often spend time and feel relaxed. Make this space more spacious by doubling its size with large mirrors or monochromatic color schemes that blur the lines between individual features such as tiles, grout, etc., creating an airy feeling in your home’s smallest room! For the bedroom and all rooms, inspiration never runs out! Browse through online design sites and magazines for inspiration. Once you find some looks that speak to your taste, save them as images in order to refer back to later on when making decisions about furniture placement or other aspects of interior design like color choices etc: Planning out different layouts before deciding which one works best takes time but ultimately saves more money and time in the long run because you avoid making changes that you end up not liking later on. There are many more things to consider when remodeling or renovating but the best way to make sure you have covered everything is to speak to a professional remodeling company that has many years in the industry.

Photo Credit by Graham & Brown When was the last time you walked into a home and saw wallpaper? Chances are it’s been a long time. Let’s be clear—the reason you haven’t seen wallpaper recently is not because it’s not current or on-trend (quite the opposite); it’s because most people rarely think about using wallpaper as a fabulous way to accessorize a room, a piece of furniture, a nook, or a shelving unit. Want to add texture, warmth, or pizazz to a room in your home? We highly recommend exploring the wonderful world of wallpaper. Come along with us as we take you on a wallpaper journey, so you can be informed about the latest trends, creative ideas about where and what to wallpaper, and so much more. Traditional Versus Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper Traditional wallpaper has nothing to do with the style, it’s about how the wallpaper is made. Traditional wallpaper is referred to as “non-woven” which means the back of the wallpaper is breathable to avoid the growth of mold or other bacteria. The breathable backing also reduces the paper from contracting and expanding and is fairly simple to remove. For installation, traditional wallpaper will require paste and a roller brush. Because of the paste, it is easy to manipulate as you are putting the wallpaper in its proper place. In recent years, peel-and-stick wallpaper has become increasingly popular especially for people who are renting their house or apartment—you literally just peel the paper off and leave no trace behind. Another reason to use peel-and-stick wallpaper is if you are the decorating type who likes to change things up on a regular basis. Done with the current pattern after a year? No problem, change it out for a completely different design. If you are considering peel-and-stick wallpaper, make sure your walls are well suited for it. It’s best to use it on a smooth, flat surface with little to no texture. If you have a textured wall, we recommend doing a tester to see how it adheres. You can use a wallpaper paste for better adhering, but that defeats the purpose of the convenience and no trace left behind with peel-and-stick. Be aware the removable peel-and-stick is unforgiving--because the back is sticky, it doesn’t allow you to manipulate the paper into its perfect place like traditional wallpaper. Generally speaking, traditional wallpaper is a superior product to peel-and-stick even though there can be more labor and cost involved; however, as discussed, peel-and-stick is a great option for temporary tastes and homestays . Wallpaper Worthy Walls Photo credit by Oliver Designs As mentioned above, peel-and-stick wallpaper is best installed on a flat surface. Got texture? Read on! When considering traditional wallpaper, some of you may be thinking “I have textured walls so I thought I couldn’t wallpaper over them?” Good news—most walls, even-textured ones, can be wallpapered if the wall is prepared properly. The most effective way to go from textured to flat walls is performing a process called “mudding.” Follow these four simple steps and your wall(s) will be wallpaper worthy ! To level the surface, apply a skim coat or a layer of joint compound. Sand the wall. Wipe down the surface. Apply one coat of primer to seal the wall to prevent the wallpaper paste from soaking into the newly flattened surface. Wallpaper Trends for 2021 Maximalism is in! You are familiar with minimalism (white walls, muted color palettes, streamline designs), so think the polar opposite—bigger, brighter, bolder, busier and you’ve got maximalism. We are breaking down the trends to three categories: TEXTURE : The textured wallpaper gives dimension and the illusion that the pattern is directly on the wall like brick, stone, and other patterns like weaves, grasscloth, silk, and bamboo. Photo Credit by Brewster Home Fashion 2. FLORALS/BOTANICS: A big trend for 2021 is “bringing the outside in,” so flowers, trees, and plants are very popular choice in wallpaper. Whether you choose a literal or abstract botanical design, you will not disappoint! Photo Credit by Richard Powers 3. GEOMETRICS: Geometric shapes make a room appear balanced and makes those who inhabit the space feel a sense of stability. Large, basic shapes like diamonds and squares create an expansive feeling. Use contrasting colors within the geometric patterns and you’ve got yourself a space that calls out for fun, excitement, and creativity. Where & What to Wallpaper If you are looking to infuse creative décor into your home, think beyond just wallpapering your basic four walls. Here are some ideas to inspire you to think outside the wallpaper box. Bored with staring at that white ceiling? Wallpaper the ceiling only for a big design statement. Got a nook in your great room or den? Wallpapering it will give it that extra pop. Struggling with how to make a big living room wall interesting? Use wallpaper as your accessory and save money on buying art Sick of all that white space on your stairwell? It’s a perfect place for wallpaper. Want to make your closet look like a million bucks? Wallpaper the back of all your shelving units. Does your kitchen look drab and dated? Spice things up with using wallpaper as your backsplash especially if you are a renter. Do you have pieces of furniture in need of a makeover? Wallpaper your headboard, side tables, or a desktop. Whether you are wallpapering a piece of furniture or an entire room, let your creative juices flow and experience how wallpaper can be an affordable, simple way to transform your home from ordinary to extraordinary. Photo credit by Tim Young