Decor

Apache is functioning normally

DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) -Davenport’s locally owned La-Z-Boy Furniture Gallery and mattress store provides an array of home furniture and mattresses for you to choose from. Stop in soon to enter a world of comfort, service, and selection.

Nancy Klemme of La-Z-Boy Furniture Gallery in Davenport highlights how the designers can assist you in using the trending Pantone colors of the year in order to create a space that is “current” and comfortable.

Klemme features particularly popular trends such as blues, black and tan, and gold.

Also notable is that the 2023 Pantone Color of the Year is very Barbie-friendly: Viva Magenta! The pinkish-red hue is great for a spring/summer punch of color with accents. The 2024 Pantone Color of the Year (announced early) is Apricot Crush.

La-Z-Boy offers design services that can assist Quad Citizens reach their goals. From small updates to complete transformations, their FREE Design Services help you get the look of your dreams.

Visit La-Z-Boy Furniture Gallery online at https://www.la-z-boy.com/Davenport/Davenport/ or stop in at 4775 Elmore Avenue, Davenport. Contact the store at 563-355-7801.

Copyright 2023 KWQC. All rights reserved.

Source: kwqc.com

Apache is functioning normally

Yesterday we talked fall fashion. Today we have a moody fall mood board for your. While we may have a few more weeks to enjoy our typical Bay Area Indian Summer, we’re ready to stash the rosé for another day and uncork deep moody merlots. We’re also ready to say goodbye to bright summer colors and surround ourselves in dark classic colorways. And what’s more classic than black and white? From interior design to photgraphy, fashion or plating food, we will always die over this dynamic duo!

Some may think of black & white as a restricting palette with which to work, but as you can see above, the possibilities are in fact endless – the inspiration limitless. Black and white combinations are confident and dramatic, elegant and restrained all rolled into one. This pairing will never do you wrong!

Looking to add this bold and classic combo to your life? We’re loving these pieces! SHOP HERE

JavaScript is currently disabled in this browser. Reactivate it to view this content.

image 1 via // 2 via FIGTNY // 3 via // 4 via // 5 via // 6 via // 7 via // 8 via // 9 via

%%youtubomatic_0_0%%

Source: apartment34.com

Apache is functioning normally

Get ready to unlock a treasure trove of invaluable insights and expert advice that will revolutionize your vacation rental property. In this Redfin article, we dive deep into the world of vacation rentals, revealing powerful strategies to make your property shine and leave guests in awe. From savvy investments that boost your property’s allure to crafting an unforgettable resort-like experience, forging strategic partnerships, and crafting personalized guest interactions, we’ll equip you with the knowledge to exceed expectations and achieve unrivaled success in the fiercely competitive world of vacation rentals.       

Whether you own a vacation rental property in the enchanting city of Orlando, FL, or the picturesque town of San Marcos, CA, this comprehensive resource is tailored to elevate your rental business to new heights. Here are 18 transformational secrets to maximize guest satisfaction, earn rave reviews, and propel your property to the one of the most sought after homes in the area.

1. Make your rental stand out

“To maintain a five-star rental property, you’ll want to go above and beyond tenant expectations. Our data shows that including a washer and dryer, upgrading to newer appliances, and providing freshly painted walls in neutral tones will not only make your rental stand out, but also make the process of finding great tenants faster,” recommends Doorstead. “Moreover, by ensuring access to a responsive property manager, you can guarantee that all aspects of the home are well taken care of, truly enhancing the tenant experience.”

2. Pretend your vacation rental is a five-star resort

“The most important thing to remember about managing a vacation rental is that this is the hospitality business, not the landlord and tenant business,” shares Todd Ortscheid, Co-Owner of Revolution Rental Management. “You have to think of what you’re offering more like a hotel or resort than a traditional rental property. This means cleanliness, fast response time, desirable amenities, and a well-maintained property. The more you think of your property as a five-star resort, the better off you’ll be.”

3. Consider creating strategic partnerships

 “We recommend partnering with a company that specializes in exclusive vacation rental portfolios. If your property is a top-tier, five-star rental, it’s essential to align it with a company whose branding and services cater to the discerning needs of luxury clientele,” recommends Gary Doss, Co-Owner of SoCal Vacations. “Larger companies that offer a broad range of properties may not be able to meet the high expectations and unique demands of this premium market segment.”

4. Personalize communication 

“To ensure a successful guest experience, effective communication plays a pivotal role. It is crucial to make your guests feel genuinely welcomed, leaving a lasting impression. One way to achieve this is by remembering their return and incorporating delightful surprises. Consider offering their favorite snacks accompanied by a bottle of wine, arranging fresh flowers, and providing a personalized welcome message upon their arrival,” recommends Ellie Paget, CEO of HomeSlice Stays.

“Prompt responsiveness is of utmost importance when it comes to addressing guest requests or concerns. Aim to respond to them in a timely manner, never exceeding a 15-minute timeframe. This level of attentiveness demonstrates your commitment to their satisfaction and enhances their overall experience.

By prioritizing personalized communication, you can create an exceptional guest experience that fosters satisfaction and builds positive relationships.”

5. Decorate with style

“When it comes to guest experience and satisfaction, décor has the potential to make a significant difference in how guests perceive your rental property. To ensure an exceptional experience, it is crucial to infuse your property with chic and stylish decor, incorporating appealing color schemes and well-curated furnishings,” recommends Ellie Paget.

“To achieve a truly unique and captivating aesthetic, consider leveraging the expertise of our dedicated team. They can assist you in designing your home, helping you create an environment that not only catches the attention of potential guests through eye-catching marketing images but also provides a one-of-a-kind experience during their stay.

By investing in stylish decor and enlisting professional guidance, you can elevate your rental property’s overall appeal, command top dollar, and leave a lasting impression on your guests.”

6. Make sure you have security and safety measures

“To prioritize the safety and security of your guests, it is important to emphasize on security and safety measures. Install reliable locks, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers. Provide clear instructions on emergency procedures and ensure your guests feel secure throughout their stay. A focus on safety gives guests peace of mind and contributes to their overall satisfaction,” recommends Damir Dumo from Chalet.

“Smart locks with rotating access keys for each guest are must-haves nowadays. We use a smart home automation system that can be remotely managed for all of our homes.”

7. Leverage guest’s reviews 

“Pay attention to guest feedback and reviews,” says Damir Dumo. “Actively seek feedback from your guests and use it to improve your property and services. Address any concerns promptly and implement suggestions that align with your goals. By consistently evolving based on guest feedback, you’ll maintain a high level of guest satisfaction and enhance your reputation as a top-notch rental property.

Ask for a five-star review on the day the guest checks out. If it wasn’t a five-star experience, ask the guest to give feedback directly to you.”

8. Discover your secret formula to winning a rave review

“We’ve found that rave reviews are the secret to creating successful, five-star rental properties,” says ALL IN. “This begins with maintaining excellent communication with our owners, guests, and community management teams. Maintaining a meticulous standard of cleaning, offering modern amenities, and assuring attention to every detail are non-negotiables that must always be upheld as a standard.

We invite the input of our guests and respond promptly to their questions, needs, and feedback. Creating memorable experiences keeps them wanting to share their experience with others.” 

9. Elevate your guest’s stay with tailored upsells 

“When catering to today’s travelers, it’s important to go beyond providing accommodation and focus on creating memorable experiences. Enhance your guests’ stay by offering exciting upsells and activities that align with your property’s location,” says Kennedy Williams from Mount.

“For instance, if you’re near a beach, consider providing e-bikes, or if you’re situated by a lake, offer kayaks. By incorporating these quality add-ons and upsells, you eliminate the guesswork and reduce trip planning stress for your guests, ensuring your property is a memorable stay for all the right reasons.”

10. Elevate your guest experience through realistic promises and delightful surprises

“The top-performing property managers consistently prioritize the basics of a well-maintained property, comfortable beds, and clean linens to create a memorable guest experience. They also excel in attentive guest communication, providing timely and personalized responses that make guests feel valued and supported,” mentions Hostaway.

“They’re also careful in setting realistic expectations by promoting property highlights without overpromising, along with adding delightful touches like unique decor, outdoor games, or welcome gifts, further enhancing the guest experience.”

11. Thoughtfully prepare your guest’s needs before they arrive

“Take the time to think about your guest experience from their perspective,” recommends Floorspace. “By anticipating their requests, you can provide the amenities, information, and special touches that will make their stay seamless and memorable, while also reducing the amount of communication required. 

It’s also helpful to keep in mind the benefits of providing a positive guest experience, which can’t really be overstated. Not only will you garner more five-star reviews, but you’ll also increase your chances of repeat and direct bookings.”

12. Set a competitive pricing strategy

“One thing that often gets overlooked is pricing strategy. You can have high occupancy throughout the year, but if your pricing is not competitive, you will not reach your highest earning potential,” recommends Humberto Pacheco, CEO of Naya Homes. “You will need to research similar listings in your area and take into account factors such as location, size, amenities, and seasonal demand.”

13. Automate communication

“Automating communication in a natural tone through templates or automated messages streamlines your interactions with guests while maintaining a personalized touch,” suggests Alex Withorn from  Thorn Point Vacation Rentals. “This approach allows you to experiment with different messaging strategies, refine your communication based on guest responses, and deliver consistently excellent customer service without guests realizing it’s not manual correspondence.

Investing effort in repeat business can significantly contribute to ensuring another great review. By fostering strong relationships with guests and providing exceptional experiences, you increase the likelihood of them returning, resulting in positive reviews from satisfied repeat guests.”

14. Harness the power of preemptive reviews

“When you give guests a five-star review, specifically letting them know before they leave their own review can encourage reciprocity and forgiveness. By expressing gratitude and acknowledging their positive experience, you create a positive feedback loop that encourages guests to leave similarly favorable reviews,” says Alex Withorn from Thorn Point Vacation Rentals

“Being upfront about expectations and educating guests about the review process is crucial for ensuring positive reviews. Transparent communication sets the stage for mutual understanding and helps guests provide feedback that aligns with their expectations, leading to more favorable reviews.”

15. Ensure your guests have a streamlined experience checking in and checking out 

“Being in the cleaning industry for so long, I found that attention to detail, open communication, consistency, and streamlined processes leads to a five-star rental experience,” says Celestial Cleaning Service. “Every little thing counts, from beginning to end. The way your entrance is presented with wine and chocolates and a personalized letter, to the ease of checking out. Ensuring all staff members associated with delivering a five-star experience is up to date with your standards in delivering a great experience is key.”

16. Create a cleaning schedule

“To ensure a consistently high standard of cleanliness and maintenance in your vacation rental, it is important to establish a comprehensive cleaning schedule. This schedule should encompass tasks that need to be performed daily, weekly, quarterly, and seasonally,” recommends Jacqueline Barbosa from  Morfin Cleaning Services.

“Examples of such tasks include carpet cleaning, window washing, and high dusting. Consider small details such as re-caulking, checking batteries, lightbulbs, filters, and even painting the unit if necessary. It is crucial to use quality products and professional cleaning services to ensure that every area, including appliances and windows, receives proper care.

Attention to detail is key when managing a rental property. In platforms like Airbnb, linens and bedding should be in excellent condition, and all appliances must work properly. Guests should have access to all necessary amenities such as toilet paper and soap, and a complete set of cooking utensils should be provided. It is important to regularly inspect these details and replace anything that is worn or damaged.”

17. Conduct inspections

“To maintain a high-quality vacation rental, it is important to regularly inspect, maintain, and upgrade the unit, including appliances and amenities,” says Jacqueline. “Providing a comprehensive guide for guests, which includes information on internet access, streaming services, local attractions, and useful tips, enhances their experience. 

“Essential amenities and toiletries such as toilet paper, soap, and dish soap should be provided and regularly restocked after every visitor. Maintaining open communication with guests, checking in upon arrival, and seeking their feedback throughout their stay are key to providing excellent customer service and ensuring a positive guest experience.”

18. Provide uninterrupted guest service anytime, anywhere

“Providing a smooth and memorable guest experience is essential to maintaining a five-star rental. This involves communicating promptly with guests (no matter what time of the day or night), solving guest problems in a timely manner, and giving guests the tools to create the vacation of their dreams,” shares Sam Ripley from LocalVR.

19. Provide perfectly maintained appliances, ample storage space, and an inviting ambiance for your guests

“When it comes to keeping a five-star rental property, I recommend that all appliances and technology be well maintained and in excellent working condition,” suggests Norma Reyen, Professional Organizer and Owner of Simply Fresh Interiors.  “I also recommend making sure that there is enough storage space, such as drawers, cabinetry, shelving, and hanging options. Having an appropriate amount of storage allows for a clean and decluttered space that all guests can enjoy. Lastly, maintaining a fresh-smelling home with good lighting and an airy ambiance will make your rental home memorable.”

20. Monitor booking requests

“Be communicative and professional, but warm and friendly. Don’t allow anyone to book without maintaining a standard; for example, guests must have previous and recent positive five-star reviews,” recommends Michael Skomina, from Host Easy BnB. “Liaise with your cleaners and laundry service, as they are the crux of the business and the most important asset to your success. Follow up and inspect after cleans; if necessary, guide and provide feedback in positive ways to help your services provide the best possible standard that you desire.”

Source: redfin.com

Apache is functioning normally

Express News Service

KOCHI: Looking for some unique decor to add character to your living space? Well, Bronze Age — Sculpture Foundry in Kochi might be the right place for you. With an impressive collection of handmade bronze sculptures and customisation, the art decor venture promises to up the drama.

“Be it residential or commercial spaces, a statement sculpture has the power to set the mood,” says Neenu Varghese who runs the Bronze Age gallery at Gandhinagar in Kadavanthra. “More than being just a decorative piece, a sculpture can evoke memories, stir emotions, and spark meaningful conversations. Its multidimensional nature allows for diverse perspectives and interpretations, amplifying its emotive impact.” 

Renny Jacob, the founder of Indian Cocoa Group, which owns Bronze Age, believes there is a “reawakening of interest in interior decor and a growing appreciation for fine craftsmanship”. “Consumers are now embracing the skill involved in creating these exquisite pieces,” he says, adding that the gallery also provides a platform for artists who wish to cast their ideations in bronze. 

“We work closely with artists, designers, and craftsmen. With each sculpture, we aim to tell a story, start a conversation and create possessions that generations will cherish.” Neenu explains that each sculpture is the result of long hours of work using special processes and tools. “While ideation is one of the most time-consuming stages, patination is the final stage in the production of bronze sculptures; it is quite exciting,” she says.

Gallery curator Sujaya C P agrees. “Our sculptures are meticulously crafted using a combination of cast metals and mixed media,” she says. “Each piece is hand-finished with bronze, copper, iron, or other alloys. It takes hundreds of hours of skilled labour,” 

Applying a patina involves using a combination of chemicals and heat to achieve the desired finish on a sculpture, Sujaya explains. “Over time, the patina effect naturally appears on the metal surface, adding character to the artwork,” she says. 

“The sculpture’s real metal surface can be polished to maintain its shine or left to develop a natural, greenish ageing patina. This important step enhances and enlivens the bronze casting, breathing life into the sculpture.”

Bronze Age works in different styles and mediums and also deals with small- and large-scale architectural and interior design projects across Kerala. “We undertake concept development as well, bringing ideas to life,” says Neenu. 

“Through the gallery, we aim to educate people on the techniques and philosophy behind artworks. We create bold statement sculptures that have the power to transform any space, and create a lasting impression.”

Source: newindianexpress.com

Apache is functioning normally

As the clock continues to tick on the renovation of our San Francisco Victorian we picked paint colors over the weekend!, it’s all beginning to feel real. Really really real. That’s why I’m loving our Designer’s Take series even more. Now that the progress has come this far, I can really envision what some of our rooms could look like in the end. This week we’ve got another gorgeous concept for our living room. Here’s an update on what it’s looking like right now!


This picture is looking from our kitchen-to-be into the living room and the dining room beyond. We took out a wall to create an open concept living space. The room is connected to the entry hall, the dining room, a TV room and kitchen. The final living room will feature a seating area around a fireplace as our focal point. But I’m also loving the original arches and the 145 year old pocket doors!

The latest updates include the dry wall going up and the walls being primed. We also chose oak hardwood for the floors – they’ve been going in over the last few weeks. The smell in there is SO good right now. I wish that picture was scratch and sniff! The floors’ natural color is so pretty I’m going to be hard pressed to stain them in the end. Needless to say, I’m VERY excited to begin to see actual rooms take shape. The living room concept from Casework below has me envisioning quiet evenings in our living room cuddled up with a glass of wine and a good book home decor magazine!

Over here at Casework we’re super excited to see Erin’s new Victorian fixer upper in San Francisco transition to Apartment 34 standards. We know how daunting an entire home remodel can be, especially living through the process but know the Apartment 34 team and Erin will create a unique and thoughtful space and track the progress all the way!

When we were asked, “how would Casework redo a room?”, we jumped at the chance. Victorian bones with modern sensibilities are right up our alley. We love a mix of traditional details like crown molding and wood floors with more modern pieces like bright white walls, brass light fixtures and mid century tables. That blend of old and new is the perfect balance. And to make it all work, it’s really all about keeping things neutral and focusing on textures, materials and playing with scale. We also like to layer tones of gray with the classic black and white to soften the starkness and create warmth without needing warm colors.

  1. > Sofa
  2. > Chandelier 
  3. > Planet Light Fixture
  4. > Marble Coffee Table
  5. > Kartel Gold Componibili
  6. > “Brazil Cliffs” Art
  7. > Mid-Century Planter
  8. > Chairs
  9. > Brass Mirror
  10. > Tabriz Rug

I’m definitely crushing on this chic, sophisticated take on the living room. Catching up on our epic remodel project? You can check out kitchen ideas HERE, living room ideas HERE and bedroom ideas HERE. More updates on our progress will be coming to the blog again soon but I’m also sharing more improptu tours on Snapchat and on Periscope! You can find me @apartment34!!

Room by Casey Keasler for Casework

Image 1 via Daniellla Witte // 2 via Space Copenhagen // 3 via Lark & Linen // 4 via Citizen Atelier // 5 via Nordic Design

%%youtubomatic_0_0%%

Source: apartment34.com

Slickdeals and conducted by OnePoll, the study found 85% believe their home is in “dire need” of some updating, and 78% already have plans for home improvement projects this year.

These home improvers are planning to renovate or redecorate an average of three rooms in the next six months, putting their focus on the living room (49%), primary bedroom (48%) and kitchen (47%).

The results also suggest that the average homeowner plans to spend at least $1,753 on their upcoming projects. 

SWNS

However, 81% are trying to keep their projects as close to their budget as possible. Nine percent of respondents even claimed they could do it for under $500.

“Changing your home to reflect your style can be done even with a smaller budget,” said Vitaly Pecharsky, head of deals for Slickdeals. “This can start with something as simple as decluttering your home to larger changes such as bathroom vanities and appliances. Tapping into seasonal sales can also help you save.” 

SWNS

The most popular aesthetics people currently stick to in their homes are modern (29%), bohemian (12%) and rustic (7%).

When it comes to inspiration, many turn to the classics: decor/architecture magazines (55%), home improvement apps (54%) and TV shows (50%).

According to those polled, the best, most aesthetically-impactful “small” home improvement changes are simple ones like painting walls (46%), decorating with trinkets and tchotchkes (46%), buying new throw pillows (45%) and hanging art (44%).

SWNS

Over half (52%) have considered changing their home’s aesthetic because of something they found and bought on sale.

Seventy-three percent are willing to purchase something for their home if it’s on sale, even if it doesn’t fit in with their home’s aesthetic. 

Pecharsky added, “Finding a sale doesn’t have to mean sacrificing on your home’s aesthetic. By checking back regularly with a deal site like ours, you can find the best products at the best prices.”

13 biggest decor regrets

Source: nypost.com

Apache is functioning normally

There’s nothing like relaxing with a good book.

Keep a stack of your favorite books on your coffee table. You can flip through them while watching TV and your guests can flip through them as you get dinner ready. Coffee table books are entertaining and, as an added plus, they look beautiful stacked on a coffee table.

Here are our recommended reads:

  • A Life Less Ordinary by Alex Legendre – Get interior design inspiration from two longtime friends, Alex and Zoe. Their goal is to help you design a home that’s practical for your lifestyle. They delicately balance rustic textures with a modern flare.
  • Zen & The Art of Happiness by Chris Prentiss – Sometime you just need to take a break to enjoy the present moment. Chris Prentiss helps you do just that, by teaching you how to bring positivity and vibrancy back into our lives. Learn to balance daily stress from work and life with Prentiss’ tips for creating a more relaxing lifestyle.
  • Plenty: Vibrant Recipes from London’s Ottolgenhi by Yotam Ottolenghi: Plenty is filled with exotic vegetarian recipes that will delight vegetarians and meat eaters alike. The author, a renowned chef, was influenced by his Mediterranean upbringing and his love of good food!
  • Journeys of a Lifetime: 500 of the World’s Greatest Trips: National Geographic does it again with an extensive book of the best places to travel. With adventures in almost every continent, this hardcover is great for planning vacations and filling up your bucket list. Similar to everything National Geographic does, the photography is stunning.
  • Domino: The Book of Decorating: A Room-by-Room Guide to Creating a Home That Makes You Happy: There is always room for exploration and improvement when it comes to decorating your home. This book will give you and your guests insight and advice for decorating a dream home. The book covers everything from how to stick to a budget to a detailed explanation of all of the different types of curtains.

There are so many excellent coffee table books to choose from – we had trouble narrowing down our list! We decided to go with a wide range of categories and topics but you can find a coffee table book for almost any interest and genre. Search Barnes and Noble, Amazon, or your local bookstore for books you’ll love!

Source: century21.com

Apache is functioning normally

A paint job that doesn’t require the peskiness of taping off? Need we say more?? This weekend’s task of meticulously applying blue tape to every edge, corner and cranny of a room that just needs a simple fresh coat of paint- is poof, gone. Because if you’re as adventurous as we hope you are, you’ll love this super fun, super edgy – we’re not going to lie – avant garde paint idea!

Go bold this fall in a media room, guest room or any room that you’re looking to add a “wow” factor by painting a wall a little less than 3/4 of the way up and leaving it “unfinished”. The confident and gutsy lines of the paint brush or roller bring a whole new meaning to an accent wall – and we are so in love with the look.

What do you think? Would you pass or play? For more Ideas to Steal, you’ll want to check out our backlog of brilliant inspirations.

image via Ikea

%%youtubomatic_0_0%%

Source: apartment34.com

Apache is functioning normally

Spread the love

As technology advances and our dependence on smartphones increases, it’s no surprise that there are dozens of home decorating apps available. These apps help homeowners and renters alike to design and decorate their space on a budget. If you’re looking for inspiration or guidance when it comes to decorating your home, here are the best home decorating apps of 2023.

  1. Houzz

Houzz is one of the most popular home decorating apps on the market, with a database of more than 20 million high-quality images of home interiors and exteriors. With the app, users can discover new home design trends, tap into expert advice, and shop for furniture, decor, and more.

  1. Pinterest

Pinterest is a powerful platform for finding inspiration on a variety of topics, including home decorating. With an endless stream of user-generated content, Pinterest allows users to discover new ideas for color schemes, furniture arrangements, and DIY projects.

  1. ColorSnap

ColorSnap is a color-matching app designed by Sherwin-Williams. The app allows users to take a photo of any object and match it to any of the paint colors in Sherwin-Williams’ catalog. This is a great tool for homeowners who want to match the color of their furniture or decor to their walls.

  1. RoomSketcher

RoomSketcher allows users to create 2D and 3D floor plans and interior designs. The app is especially useful for homeowners who are planning a home renovation or redesign, as it helps to visualize different layouts and furniture arrangements.

  1. Home Design 3D

Home Design 3D is a powerful app that allows users to create detailed 3D designs of their home. The app lets users design everything from the floor plan to the color of the walls, and even allows users to view their designs in virtual reality.

  1. Artfully Walls Try on Wall

Artfully Walls Try on Wall is an app that allows users to preview artwork on their own walls before they make a purchase. With the app, users can upload a photo of their wall, select a piece of art from Artfully Walls’ catalog, and preview how it will look in their home.

  1. MagicPlan

MagicPlan is an app that allows users to create floor plans and virtual tours of their home. The app uses the camera on a smartphone or tablet to create a 3D model of the room, and users can then add furniture and decorations to see how they would look.

Conclusion

Home decorating apps are a great way to find inspiration, plan a redesign, and shop for furniture and decor. With so many options available, homeowners and renters alike can easily find an app that suits their needs and preferences. Whether you’re planning a major renovation or just looking for some design inspiration, these are the best home decorating apps of 2023.

Source: thetechedvocate.org

Apache is functioning normally

Michael Beal of CENTURY 21 Beal, Inc., College Station, Texas, asks:

Many customers feel overwhelmed when they move into a new house. Is there an easy way to tackle it— and make a house feel like home?

So you’ve just moved into your new home. It’s a clean slate full of exciting possibilities. But for many people this euphoria can often dissolve into emotional overwhelm. Knowing where to start can help you move forward with more confidence.

Here’s what I advise my clients:

Start with the kitchen: Most of us have to eat at least three times a day. But really think about how your food prep might change from one house to the next. How much do you REALLY entertain? Did you buy the fish poacher or the meal sealer 10 years ago and only use it once? If so, don’t let it take up valuable space. Rule of thumb? You should work the hardest to reach things you only use once in a while, reserving closed storage areas at arms’ length for things you use every day.

Color your world: Before you go any further, think about paint color. It’s the cheapest and easiest way to completely customize your home to your new style. While things are still in boxes, and before you buy new furniture, let paint do all the heavy-decor-lifting first. It will also help crystallize your new design theme before you go shopping for your new pieces.

Next tackle your bedrooms: Because these are the vital spaces to our well-being and where we begin and end every day, don’t save them for last. Often simply out of ego we tend to get the entertaining spaces done first. They then sit there hardly used while the bedrooms remain in an upheaval.

Consider the closets: If you were fortunate enough to have a walk-in closet in your last house, but were still challenged with it filling up too fast, think about getting an armoire for the bedroom. It’s a great place for men to put their suits and business attire, leaving more space for “her” in the walk-in closet. No sense in you bumping into each other every morning, fighting to get dressed.

CHRISTOPHER LOWELL, an Emmy Award winning interior designer and TV host, is known for doable design advice and simple ideas that net stunning results. Log on to Christopherlowell.com to learn more.

Source: century21.com