From the lively streets of Nashville, to the historical significance of Memphis, where the legacy of Elvis Presley lives on, Tennessee’s unique attractions draw millions each year. But what else is Tennessee known for? Whether you’re considering renting a home in Knoxville, looking to settle into a charming apartment in Chattanooga, or just planning a visit, you’ll soon find that Tennessee has much more to offer than meets the eye. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Tennessee special and why so many are proud to call it home. Let’s jump in.
1. Nashville’s country music scene
Nashville is famously known as the “Music City.” The city stands as the epicenter of country music, home to the Grand Ole Opry, the longest-running radio broadcast in U.S. history. While here, be sure to visit Broadway to experience live music in legendary honky-tonk bars. Additionally, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to see memorabilia from iconic artists like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton. Nashville’s lively music scene continues to shape the genre, attracting aspiring musicians from around the world.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. The park offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and over 800 miles of hiking trails. Visitors enjoy exploring scenic spots like Clingmans Dome and Cades Cove, a beautiful valley with historic homesteads. Also, the park contains a remarkable diversity of plant and animal life, including over 1,500 species of flowering plants and more than 200 species of birds. One of the best times to visit is in spring where wildflowers blanket the park, creating vibrant displays of color along the trails.
3. Hot chicken
Nashville hot chicken is a culinary delight that has gained national fame. This spicy fried chicken, served with pickles and white bread, remains a staple at local establishments like Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack and Hattie B’s. The dish is known for its fiery heat, which comes from a blend of spices added to the crispy coating. Furthermore, Nashville hot chicken festivals celebrate this iconic food, where people challenge their taste buds and enjoy Tennessee’s bold culinary scene.
4. Jack Daniel’s Distillery
The Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg produces Jack Daniel’s whiskey, the top-selling American whiskey worldwide. Patrons can take guided tours of the distillery to learn about the whiskey-making process and the history of this iconic brand. The tour includes visiting the original cave spring, the source of the water used in the whiskey, and ends with a tasting session. As a result, the distillery attracts whiskey enthusiasts from around the world, making it a must-see destination in Tennessee.
5. Bristol Motor Speedway
Bristol Motor Speedway located in Bristol is a legendary venue in the world of NASCAR racing. Known as “The Last Great Colosseum,” this half-mile track is famous for its steep banking and fast-paced action. Because of this, the speedway hosts major races like the Food City 500 and the Bristol Night Race. The speedway can accommodate over 160,000 fans, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Events at Bristol are unforgettable for racing enthusiasts, offering thrilling experiences both on and off the track.
6. The birthplace of the blues
Memphis is celebrated as the birthplace of the blues, a genre that has deeply influenced American music. If you love the blues, be sure to check out Beale Street in downtown Memphis. This historic district is lined with blues clubs where live music fills the air every night. The city’s rich blues heritage is also commemorated at the Blues Hall of Fame, featuring memorabilia from legendary artists.
Fun facts Tennessee is famous for
Graceland: Memphis is home to Graceland, the famous mansion where Elvis Presley lived. It’s now a museum dedicated to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
The world’s largest underground lake: Tennessee holds The Lost Sea, the largest underground lake in the United States.
Birthplace of Mountain Dew: This state is the birthplace of Mountain Dew. The popular soft drink was originally created in the 1940s in Knoxville by Barney and Ally Hartman, who were looking for a mixer for whiskey.
7. MoonPies
Tennessee proudly stands as the birthplace of the MoonPie. This beloved snack is made of marshmallow sandwiched between two graham crackers and coated in chocolate. Created in Chattanooga in 1917, MoonPies have become a staple of Southern cuisine. The Chattanooga Bakery still produces these treats, which are especially popular during Mardi Gras celebrations in Mobile, Alabama. Furthermore, the annual MoonPie Festival in Bell Buckle celebrates this iconic snack with games, music, and, of course, plenty of MoonPies.
8. The Tennessee River
The Tennessee River winds through the state and is a vital waterway that offers locals a plethora of recreational activities. Chattanooga, in particular, capitalizes on the river’s beauty with attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium, riverboat cruises, and the scenic Riverwalk. The river is a hotspot for fishing, boating, and kayaking, drawing outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Events like the annual Riverbend Festival celebrate the river’s significance, featuring music, food, and fireworks along its banks.
9. Dollywood
Named after country music star Dolly Parton, Dollywood is an iconic a theme park in Pigeon Forge. The park offers a blend of thrilling rides and live entertainment, set against the backdrop of the Smoky Mountains. Visitors can enjoy roller coasters, water slides, and musical shows that celebrate the culture of the region. Furthermore, Dollywood features seasonal festivals like the Smoky Mountain Christmas, making it a year-round destination for fans of Dolly Parton.
10. The Ryman Auditorium
The Ryman Auditorium, known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” is a historic venue that has hosted countless legendary performances. Originally built as a tabernacle in 1892, the Ryman gained fame as the home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974. Today, it continues to host concerts by top artists across various genres, offering unparalleled acoustics for concert-goers.
11. Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Oak Ridge National Laboratory is one of the world’s premier research facilities. Established during World War II as part of the Manhattan Project, it has since become a leader in scientific innovation. The lab conducts cutting-edge research in areas such as nuclear energy, advanced materials, and environmental science. While visiting, you can learn about its history and contributions to science at the American Museum of Science and Energy in Oak Ridge.
Jenna is a Midwest native who enjoys writing about home improvement projects and local insights. When she’s not working, you can find her cooking, crocheting, or backpacking with her fiancé.
Pleasant PPI Paradox Leaves This Week’s Big Victory in Focus
By:
Matthew Graham
Fri, Jul 12 2024, 4:44 PM
Pleasant PPI Paradox Leaves This Week’s Big Victory in Focus
The Producer Price Index (PPI) introduced a brief but disconcerting threat to this week’s relative level of triumph (courtesy of yesterday’s CPI) by suggesting a big, unexpected surge in core inflation at the wholesale level. Bonds initially panicked, but quickly got back on track and never looked back. Thankfully, the components behind the PPI surge are not the same components that would translate to PCE inflation in 2 weeks. We can also consider PPI’s notorious volatility and conclude it would take more than one of these surprises to raise a serious eyebrow. With that, the focus of the week remained squarely on yesterday’s big CPI victory.
Core PPI M/M
0.4 vs 0.2 f’cast
last month revised to 0.3 from 0.0
Core Annual PPI
3.0 vs 2.5 f’cast, 2.3 prev
Consumer Sentiment
66.0 vs 68.5 f’cast, 68.2 prev
Consumer inflation expectations
1yr down 0.1
5yr down 0.1
08:43 AM
Slightly stronger overnight but giving back gains after PPI. MBS unchanged. 10yr up 0.3bps at 4.216.
10:31 AM
healing continues. MBS up an eighth. 10yr down 1.6bps at 4.197
01:07 PM
Flat and sideways at the same levels as the last update.
04:43 PM
Bonds heading out at or near best levels with MBS up nearly 3/4ths and 10yr down 2.6bps at 4.187.
Download our mobile app to get alerts for MBS Commentary and streaming MBS and Treasury prices.
We’ve officially run out of ways to characterize the boring, sideways grind in the bond market that’s been intact since last Friday afternoon. One would think that with Fed Chair testimony and a Treasury auction cycle that we’d at least some moderate volatility, but alas! Perhaps the market is saving it all for Thursday’s CPI. For those that have to know what happened today, there was a 10yr Treasury auction. It was well-received but not stellar enough to inspire any new buying. Fed Chair Powell reiterated the same messages as yesterday and markets cared even less. As always, CPI means rates could go either way, in a big way.
10:06 AM
Modestly stronger overnight but giving back some gains into the 10am hour. MBS up 1 tick (0.03) and 10yr down 1.2bps at 4.285.
01:06 PM
10yr auction was pretty good. No major reaction. 10yr down 1.8bps at 4.278. MBS up 3 ticks (.09).
03:54 PM
Flat and boring all day. 10yr down 1.8bps at 4.279. MBS up 2 ticks (.06).
Download our mobile app to get alerts for MBS Commentary and streaming MBS and Treasury prices.
Today’s average mortgage rates on Jul. 11, 2024, compared with one week ago. We use rate data collected by Bankrate as reported by lenders across the US.
Mortgage rates constantly change, but there’s a good chance they’ll fall this year. To get the lowest rate, shop around and compare offers from different lenders. Enter your information below to get a custom quote from one of CNET’s partner lenders.
About these rates: Like CNET, Bankrate is owned by Red Ventures. This tool features partner rates from lenders that you can use when comparing multiple mortgage rates.
Refinance rate news
When mortgage rates hit historic lows during the pandemic, there was a refinancing boom, as homeowners were able to nab lower interest rates. But with current average mortgage rates around 7%, getting a new home loan isn’t as financially viable.
Early in the year, hopes were high for a summer rate cut from the Fed. But over the past few months, inflation has remained high and the labor market strong, making it clear to investors that the Fed will take longer than expected to lower rates.
Higher mortgage rates make refinancing less attractive to homeowners, making them more likely to hold onto their existing mortgages.
What to know about 2024 refinance rate trends
“The odds are good that rates will end 2024 lower than they are now,” said Keith Gumbinger, vice president of mortgage site, HSH.com. But predicting exactly where mortgage rates will end up is difficult because it hinges on economic data we don’t yet have.
If inflation continues to improve and the Fed is able to cut rates, mortgage refinance rates could end the year between 6% and 6.5%.
But data showing higher inflation could cause investors to reconsider the likelihood of Fed rate cuts and send mortgage rates higher, according to Orphe Divounguy, senior economist at Zillow Home Loans.
If you’re considering a refinance, remember that you can’t time the economy: Interest rates fluctuate on an hourly, daily and weekly basis, and are influenced by an array of factors. Your best move is to keep an eye on day-to-day rate changes and have a game plan on how to capitalize on a big enough percentage drop, said Matt Graham of Mortgage News Daily.
What to know about refinancing
When you refinance your mortgage, you take out another home loan that pays off your initial mortgage. With a traditional refinance, your new home loan will have a different term and/or interest rate. With a cash-out refinance, you’ll tap into your equity with a new loan that’s bigger than your existing mortgage balance, allowing you to pocket the difference in cash.
Refinancing can be a great financial move if you score a low rate or can pay off your home loan in less time, but consider whether it’s the right choice for you. Reducing your interest rate by 1% or more is an incentive to refinance, allowing you to cut your monthly payment significantly.
How to choose the right refinance type and term
The rates advertised online often require specific conditions for eligibility. Your personal interest rate will be influenced by market conditions as well as your specific credit history, financial profile and application. Having a high credit score, a low credit utilization ratio and a history of consistent and on-time payments will generally help you get the best interest rates.
30-year fixed-rate refinance
For 30-year fixed refinances, the average rate is currently at 6.99%, a decrease of 9 basis points compared to one week ago. (A basis point is equivalent to 0.01%.) A 30-year fixed refinance will typically have lower monthly payments than a 15-year or 10-year refinance, but it will take you longer to pay off and typically cost you more in interest over the long term.
15-year fixed-rate refinance
For 15-year fixed refinances, the average rate is currently at 6.49%, a decrease of 6 basis points compared to one week ago. Though a 15-year fixed refinance will most likely raise your monthly payment compared to a 30-year loan, you’ll save more money over time because you’re paying off your loan quicker. Also, 15-year refinance rates are typically lower than 30-year refinance rates, which will help you save more in the long run.
10-year fixed-rate refinance
For 10-year fixed refinances, the average rate is currently at 6.31%, a decrease of 11 basis points from what we saw the previous week. A 10-year refinance typically has the lowest interest rate but the highest monthly payment of all refinance terms. A 10-year refinance can help you pay off your house much quicker and save on interest, but make sure you can afford the steeper monthly payment.
To get the best refinance rates, make your application as strong as possible by getting your finances in order, using credit responsibly and monitoring your credit regularly. And don’t forget to speak with multiple lenders and shop around.
Does refinancing make sense?
Homeowners usually refinance to save money, but there are other reasons to do so. Here are the most common reasons homeowners refinance:
To get a lower interest rate: If you can secure a rate that’s at least 1% lower than the one on your current mortgage, it could make sense to refinance.
To switch the type of mortgage: If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage and want greater security, you could refinance to a fixed-rate mortgage.
To eliminate mortgage insurance: If you have an FHA loan that requires mortgage insurance, you can refinance to a conventional loan once you have 20% equity.
To change the length of a loan term: Refinancing to a longer loan term could lower your monthly payment. Refinancing to a shorter term will save you interest in the long run.
To tap into your equity through a cash-out refinance: If you replace your mortgage with a larger loan, you can receive the difference in cash to cover a large expense.
To take someone off the mortgage: In case of divorce, you can apply for a new home loan in just your name and use the funds to pay off your existing mortgage.
Today’s average mortgage rates on Jul. 10, 2024, compared with one week ago. We use rate data collected by Bankrate as reported by lenders across the US.
Mortgage rates constantly change, but there’s a good chance they’ll fall this year. To get the lowest rate, shop around and compare offers from different lenders. Enter your information below to get a custom quote from one of CNET’s partner lenders.
About these rates: Like CNET, Bankrate is owned by Red Ventures. This tool features partner rates from lenders that you can use when comparing multiple mortgage rates.
Current refinance rate trends
When mortgage rates hit historic lows during the pandemic, there was a refinancing boom, as homeowners were able to nab lower interest rates. But with current average mortgage rates around 7%, getting a new home loan isn’t as financially viable.
Early in the year, hopes were high for a summer rate cut from the Fed. But over the past few months, inflation has remained high and the labor market strong, making it clear to investors that the Fed will take longer than expected to lower rates.
Higher mortgage rates make refinancing less attractive to homeowners, making them more likely to hold onto their existing mortgages.
Where refinance rates are headed in 2024
“The odds are good that rates will end 2024 lower than they are now,” said Keith Gumbinger, vice president of mortgage site, HSH.com. But predicting exactly where mortgage rates will end up is difficult because it hinges on economic data we don’t yet have.
If inflation continues to improve and the Fed is able to cut rates, mortgage refinance rates could end the year between 6% and 6.5%.
But data showing higher inflation could cause investors to reconsider the likelihood of Fed rate cuts and send mortgage rates higher, according to Orphe Divounguy, senior economist at Zillow Home Loans.
If you’re considering a refinance, remember that you can’t time the economy: Interest rates fluctuate on an hourly, daily and weekly basis, and are influenced by an array of factors. Your best move is to keep an eye on day-to-day rate changes and have a game plan on how to capitalize on a big enough percentage drop, said Matt Graham of Mortgage News Daily.
What does it mean to refinance?
When you refinance your mortgage, you take out another home loan that pays off your initial mortgage. With a traditional refinance, your new home loan will have a different term and/or interest rate. With a cash-out refinance, you’ll tap into your equity with a new loan that’s bigger than your existing mortgage balance, allowing you to pocket the difference in cash.
Refinancing can be a great financial move if you score a low rate or can pay off your home loan in less time, but consider whether it’s the right choice for you. Reducing your interest rate by 1% or more is an incentive to refinance, allowing you to cut your monthly payment significantly.
How to choose the right refinance type and term
The rates advertised online often require specific conditions for eligibility. Your personal interest rate will be influenced by market conditions as well as your specific credit history, financial profile and application. Having a high credit score, a low credit utilization ratio and a history of consistent and on-time payments will generally help you get the best interest rates.
30-year fixed-rate refinance
The average 30-year fixed refinance rate right now is 7.03%, a decrease of 2 basis points over this time last week. (A basis point is equivalent to 0.01%.) A 30-year fixed refinance will typically have lower monthly payments than a 15-year or 10-year refinance, but it will take you longer to pay off and typically cost you more in interest over the long term.
15-year fixed-rate refinance
The current average interest rate for 15-year refinances is 6.59%, a decrease of 7 basis points from what we saw the previous week. Though a 15-year fixed refinance will most likely raise your monthly payment compared to a 30-year loan, you’ll save more money over time because you’re paying off your loan quicker. Also, 15-year refinance rates are typically lower than 30-year refinance rates, which will help you save more in the long run.
10-year fixed-rate refinance
The current average interest rate for a 10-year refinance is 6.43%, a decrease of 25 basis points over last week. A 10-year refinance typically has the lowest interest rate but the highest monthly payment of all refinance terms. A 10-year refinance can help you pay off your house much quicker and save on interest, but make sure you can afford the steeper monthly payment.
To get the best refinance rates, make your application as strong as possible by getting your finances in order, using credit responsibly and monitoring your credit regularly. And don’t forget to speak with multiple lenders and shop around.
When to consider a mortgage refinance
Homeowners usually refinance to save money, but there are other reasons to do so. Here are the most common reasons homeowners refinance:
To get a lower interest rate: If you can secure a rate that’s at least 1% lower than the one on your current mortgage, it could make sense to refinance.
To switch the type of mortgage: If you have an adjustable-rate mortgage and want greater security, you could refinance to a fixed-rate mortgage.
To eliminate mortgage insurance: If you have an FHA loan that requires mortgage insurance, you can refinance to a conventional loan once you have 20% equity.
To change the length of a loan term: Refinancing to a longer loan term could lower your monthly payment. Refinancing to a shorter term will save you interest in the long run.
To tap into your equity through a cash-out refinance: If you replace your mortgage with a larger loan, you can receive the difference in cash to cover a large expense.
To take someone off the mortgage: In case of divorce, you can apply for a new home loan in just your name and use the funds to pay off your existing mortgage.
“Buy now, pay later” plans have become a common option at checkout when shopping in store or online. Some plans, like the pay-in-four option, are appealing since they typically don’t charge interest or require a hard credit check that impacts credit scores.
These plans may seem like another payment method next to debit or credit, but they are installment loans that divide your purchase into several payments, with the first one typically due at checkout. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s latest rule, as of May 2024, further clarifies that buy now, pay later lenders are credit card providers. They must provide some of the same legal protections and rights that apply to credit cards, such as the ability to get a refund after returning a product.
If you qualify for buy now, pay later, it can be easy to become overextended if you take on several plans, so using them frequently as a form of credit may be problematic.
Here’s how to use buy now, pay later the smart way.
Aim to use it strategically
A buy now, pay later plan can make sense to free up cash flow — if you know you’ll have the money to pay it off based on the terms. Review your budget to see whether a buy now, pay later purchase is truly affordable before accepting it. Given that they are loans, avoid reliance on these plans to cover basic necessities if possible. Frequent use of these plans to make ends meet could indicate that you need a financial strategy before an unexpected emergency or setback puts you in the red.
“They can look at their budget in general,” says Trent Graham, a program performance and quality assurance specialist at GreenPath, a nonprofit credit counseling agency. “What’s the cash coming in compared to the cash going out without use of credit? What are options or ideas on cutting back on expenses or increasing the income, one of the two, to balance that budget out?”
If possible, leave space in your budget for unforeseen expenses. Ideally, an emergency fund can cover unexpected costs that may arise to stay on track.
Avoid taking on too many plans at once
Buy now, pay later lenders may not report ongoing payments to major credit bureaus, so they might not have visibility into the number of plans you hold with different companies. As a result, it’s possible to become overextended.
If you do have several buy now, pay later plans open at the same time, keep on top of varying terms and due dates. Graham suggests staying organized with budgeting apps, a notebook, a calendar, or other ways to track and plan for these loans. Choose an option that works for you.
Pay on time
Buy now, pay later plans are a form of credit, but they don’t typically help build it. In some cases, in fact, they can harm your credit. Payment history usually isn’t reported to credit bureaus for buy now, pay later plans at this time, but missing a payment could have adverse ripple effects, depending on the lender.
Paying late can lead to fees or a frozen account that prevents purchases. Eventually, the debt can be charged off and may be turned over to a debt collector. These actions can be reported to credit bureaus and hurt your credit history. If you anticipate trouble paying on time, some lenders may allow changes to payment due dates.
Again, while it’s not recommended to juggle too many buy now, pay later plans at once, staying organized can keep them manageable. Among those who have opened credit cards, personal loans, auto loans, student loans or mortgages, customers who also have buy now, pay later plans were more than twice as likely to be delinquent on at least one of those products by 30 days or longer, according to a 2023 report by the CFPB.
Select your payment method thoughtfully
Some buy now, pay later lenders allow installments to be paid with a debit card, credit card or other options. Whether you’re required to sign up for automatic repayments or you select that option, choose the payment method thoughtfully based on your goals and the purchase amount.
Automatic payments with a debit card, for instance, could lead to overdraft or nonsufficient fund fees if there isn’t enough money to cover the payment. Paying with a credit card can avoid this issue, but if you carry a balance from buy now, pay later plans over several months, you could be paying interest charges. A large purchase could also impact your credit utilization ratio if it uses more than 30% of your available credit. It’s a key factor in credit scores.
Understand the terms
If you’re in a hurry to check out, It may be tempting to accept a buy now, pay later plan without reading the terms of the loan. But doing so could lead to unwanted surprises. The terms aren’t the same for all lenders, and they sometimes aren’t easy to find. Track them down on the lender’s website and read them carefully to know what to expect from the plan, including any potential fees.
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Home design trends in any year contradict themselves. For 2023, designers said it was the year of organic materials and muted greens, while other designers were painting walls black for dark academia bedrooms—complete with crows. Trends come and go, but we can use them to inspire ourselves and create our idea of a happy place. No matter how different we all may be, there’s a design trend for each of us—even if it includes crows.
When home decorating, the goal is to find colors and elements that you like and that support the look you want to achieve, and then give them a try. The trick comes in finding a way to try 2024 trends without making major changes that you’re not ready to live with for the long haul. From the many, many trend lists we’ve looked at this year, we’ve chosen styles and elements that run the gamut from bold to understated, and modern to traditional. Whether you’re a moody crow lover or a modern farmhouse diehard, you’ll find something in this year’s trends to up-level your look.
1. Quiet Luxury
Designer: ANA Interiors. Photographer: Ana Cummings
If you’ve scrolled your feeds looking for home design ideas recently, you’ve seen #quietluxury trending. This understated approach to posh emphasizes quality and craftsmanship over flash and bling. Paring down decor, keeping clutter at a minimum, confining colors to muted neutrals, and adding quiet luxury ingredients are meant to inspire calm. The centerpiece of a quiet luxury living space is the cloud couch, a white sofa with a puffy seat and back pillows stuffed with goose down.
“Quiet luxury is here to stay,” says Morgan Olsen, Thumbtack’s home and design expert. “Homeowners are done with loud luxury trendy pieces and are being very intentional with their spending. 2024 will be about craftsmanship over big brands and labels, as homeowners look for reclaimed materials and quality furniture.”
That means buying pieces that last decades rather than the 3 or 4 years of mass-produced furniture. “But who said you have to get the cloud couch?” asks Olsen. Instead, find secondhand furniture by quality makers and reupholster it. Or pare down your wall art and knickknacks, then add goose-down throw pillows and a luxurious throw like this State Cashmere Striped Throw Blanket to your existing neutral sofa.
2. Healthy Habits
Designer: Kelley Design Group.
Builder: CKN Capital Group.
Photographer: Cate Black Photography
Bringing wellness closer to home is no longer a luxury but an essential for many people, especially for exercise and spa experiences. “Homeowners will continue to turn their homes into wellness retreats, prioritizing features that have health benefits,” says Olsen.
According to the 2024 Houzz U.S. Emerging Summer Trends Report, with cold plunge pool, indoor sauna, and backyard sauna all rising in search frequency in the first quarter of the year, compared with Q1 2023. At-home exercise has evolved from a stationary bicycle, with searches for bocce court, bowling alley, and game room all higher than last year. Mentions of pickleball courts on Zillow are up 64 percent over last year. People are looking for homes with private courts and nearby public courts. Pickleball in the driveway, anyone?
In addition to saunas, Amanda Pendleton, Zillow home trends expert, lists spa bathrooms and red-light therapy rooms among the features home buyers are using to complement wellness routines. While replacing a bathtub with a walk-in spa shower is a trend for remodeling projects, you can spend far less and create a spa bath at home with simple switches. Create a relaxing atmosphere by focusing on all five senses. Replace the counter clutter with a flower arrangement or basket of fluffy towels. Choose soft textures in muted colors and a comfy bath pillow, like this Luxurious Cork Bath Pillow by LIVTUUshop at Etsy. Add the soothing scent of essential oils and a source of meditative sound. Don’t forget a glass of cucumber water.
3. Hidden Spaces
Courtesy of Ruhl | Jahnes Architects.
Photographer: Nat Rea
Nothing beats a cozy reading nook, according to the 2024 Houzz U.S. Emerging Summer Trends Report. Searches for library walls, reading corners, and book nooks have all gone up this year. Secret spaces have long been a favorite for people who enjoy a bit of whimsy at home, along with out-of-sight storage. The Houzz Emerging Winter Trends Report, released at the end of 2023, shows that cloaked additions are gaining popularity. Searches for trapdoors are up by 350 percent, and searches for kitchens with hidden pantries rose by 250 percent. Say goodbye to the wet bar in the living room and hello to a secret speakeasy bar and lounge, or a wine bar and cellar under the stairs, both searched more often in 2023.
If you’re not ready to tear down any walls or excavate the closet under the stairs, create nooks and hidden spaces with a few easy changes. Give more privacy to a window seat by hanging curtains outside the front of the seat rather than against the window. Hide the entrance to a closet with this Door Mural of Antique Bookshelves by Recallart at Etsy. In the kitchen, create a secret pantry by adding vertical wood panels on and around the pantry door. For renters, this Abyssaly Wood Slat Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper at Amazon is removable; homeowners who want a more permanent solution without the hassle of cutting wood can try the Set of 4 PVC Wall Paneling pieces at Wayfair that mount with adhesive.
4. Blues and Greens
Courtesy of Brittany Lyons Interiors.
Photographer: Mike Healey Photography
Green is the most popular color this year for home design. No, wait, it’s blue. Blue is the most popular color this year for interiors. Designers differ on this one, but most agree that shades of blue and green are taking center stage in the home. Mitchell Parker, senior editor at Houzz, says blue provides a calming influence.
Sage and gray-green also are on the rise, according to the Houzz winter report. A barely-there sage functions as a neutral on kitchen cabinets, and a darker gray-green provides contrast to warm neutrals. In true blue fashion, however, several paint companies have chosen a shade of blue as their 2024 color of the year.
Add contrast to neutral furniture and flooring with blue or green items you already own, gathering throw pillows and blankets, table runners, vases, decorative containers, and framed prints from other rooms. Add a blue or green ribbon trim to curtains or the base of a fabric sofa without a sewing machine by using HeatnBond Hem Iron-On Adhesive at Amazon; seal the trim with a flat iron (used for hair styling) in places you can’t fit onto an ironing board. For a classic look, we like this M&J Trimming Greek Key Fabric Ribbon in denim blue and sage options.
5. The Return of Creams
Courtesy of kate roos design.
Photography: Andrea Rugg Photography Andrea Rugg Photography
While many new homes are still coated in gray from floor to ceiling, the trend is moving away from this cool palette and back to warmer colors like cream, tan, and brown. Stark white walls are too harsh for this year’s earthy color schemes. Parker says beiges, creamy off-whites, and rich browns are the focus for a warm, welcoming space.
If you like the look of an all-neutral, off-white room, add textures and patterns, as well as a variety of tones, to create a more layered look, says Parker. The Graham Leather/Suede Lumbar Rectangular Pillow Cover and Insert at Wayfair has a removable cover to swap for a machine-washable option when needed. Swapping accessories has a big impact, especially if you clear the clutter first. We like this Handmade Wood Table Vase, an organic take on the popular ceramic styles, and the Magalia Wood Tray that brings both functionality and latticework texture.
6. Whole Wall Art
Photo: iStock
If you want an abundance of colorful expression in your home design, those cream walls act as a blank canvas perfect for art and pattern. Bold floral wallpaper or a hand-painted mural are both big this year. Zillow’s 2024 home trend report shows that many homeowners are into eclectic, maximalist interiors. Murals in homes for sale are showing up 18 percent more often than last year. The good news is you can learn how to paint a mural even if you’re not an artist, with a bit of painter’s tape and imagination.
Wallpaper also comes in mural patterns, including the peel-and-stick variety beloved by renters and frequent redecorators everywhere. Modern botanicals, landscape vistas, and stripes are trending patterns this year. Guest baths are often the place to start, since the design will make a big impact in a small space without costing a lot of time or money. Murals like this Chinoiserie Watercolor Peacock Wallpaper by FabbWallDecor, can be subtle while bringing interest to a neutral palette. Or make a big impact with this Removable Abstract Wall Art Wallpaper by ONDECORstore, both at Etsy.
7. Handmade Touches
Photo: Zillow
This year, embrace handmade pieces that show the inevitable imperfections of craft. Artisans are impacting today’s trends with handmade tiles, hand-thrown serving dishes, and hand-painted murals. Pendleton points to Murano glass chandeliers as an example of the handmade and bespoke features popping up in today’s homes. The colorful light fixtures are featured 58 percent more often in searches on Zillow, despite the sometimes hefty price tag. If this Ares Murano Glass Chandelier at $1,675 is out of budget, support an Etsy artist with this Handmade Dusty Pink Peony Pendant by FloralsBySERRO.
Handmade items make your home unique and add a personalized touch to any room. The 2023 Houzz U.S. Bathroom Trends report showed that 62 percent of renovating homeowners are choosing a custom or semi-custom vanity. Repurpose a piece of vintage furniture and make your own vanity, or add painted details to an existing model.
8. Brutalism
Photo: Zillow
Even if industrial design isn’t your style, the return of brutalism can be a welcome change in today’s homes. Brutalist design uses materials like raw concrete, brick, steel, and bronze. You’ll see organic shapes with raw edges and unpolished surfaces, as well as a streamlined design for functionality. Pendleton says Zillow has seen a 452 percent increase in the number of homes for sale that mention brutalist design.
“The return of brutalism is the most surprising rising trend of 2024, particularly after the hygge movement where homeowners embraced cozy comfort over hard surfaces,” she says. “The hallmarks of brutalist design—raw, organic, and unfinished materials—are already showing up in furnishings, lighting, and accessories. When juxtaposed with overstuffed sofas, curved armchairs, and plush high-pile rugs, brutalist architectural elements can add visual interest and much-needed contrast to a space,” says Pendleton.
Some trends stick around for years. Most people are hanging onto their outdoor kitchens and fire pits. Others come and go, like inflatable furniture. No one is missing that squeaky stuff. As interior design trends have bent back toward the traditional and eclectic, designers are emphasizing a focus on timeless style that doesn’t look dated from year to year.
Parker says modern homes are showing brick, clay tiles, rustic wood, and other materials that signify a legacy rather than a fad. To get a timeless look that works for your space, create meaning through your belongings. A quality collection of original artwork from your travels will never go out of style, nor will vintage area rugs. Antiques are a good bet too because they add contrast to modern accessories.
White bedding, pleated curtains, and anything with stripes serve as foundational textiles you can build upon as trends change. Truly timeless style is about quality and meaning, so make space in your home for what matters most.
Orderly, Logical Rally as Bonds Reiterate Data Dependence
By:
Matthew Graham
2 Hours, 48 Min ago
Orderly, Logical Rally as Bonds Reiterate Data Dependence
Today’s recap isn’t any different than the morning commentary. The jobs report was demonstrably softer than the previous installment across the board, despite the top line nonfarm payroll count being just a hair higher than expected for the most recent month. By the time revisions are considered, the labor market trend went from looking alarmingly resilient to predictably softer. In other words, this is the jobs report trend that conventional wisdom expects with interest rates at these levels. The bond market took the opportunity to calmly confirm its adherence to the Fed’s “data dependent” guidance with an orderly rally of moderately large size. All in all, it was a perfectly agreeable jobs report day, and one that leaves a blank canvas for next week’s CPI data.
Nonfarm Payrolls
206k vs 190k f’cast
last month revised down to 218k from 272k
Unemployment Rate
4.1 vs 4.0 f’cast, 4.0 prev
Wages
0.3 vs 0.3 f’cast, 0.4 prev
08:47 AM
Modestly stronger overnight with additional gains after NFP. 10yr down 6.2bps at 4.298. MBS up 6 ticks (.16).
11:26 AM
best levels of the day. 10yr down 8.3bps at 4.277. MBS up 9 ticks (.28).
03:20 PM
Drifting sideways at best levels, perfectly in line with the previous update.
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Several days ago, we were debating whether the presidential debate or the month-end/new-month trading environment was the bigger market mover. The political angle was more popular in the analytical community, but evidence is increasingly suggesting that popularity wasn’t necessarily warranted. Today offered some compelling evidence in the form of absolutely no reaction to a widely circulated newswire that seemed to suggest Biden having second thoughts about remaining in the running. Contrast that to the immediate and obvious reaction to the ISM Services data, which made for the highest Treasury trading volume since PPI and jobless claims data on June 13th. Data will remain in focus when markets return from the holiday break on Friday morning thanks to non-farm payrolls.
ADP Employment
150k vs 160k f’cast, 157k prev
08:39 AM
Flat overnight and stronger in early trading. MBS up 1 tick (0.03). 10yr down 2.6bps at 4.406
01:40 PM
Drifting sideways after strong reaction to weak ISM data. MBS up about a quarter points and 10yr down 8bps at 4.352
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Ultimately a Very Drama-Free Day; Back to Watching Data
By:
Matthew Graham
Tue, Jul 2 2024, 5:00 PM
Ultimately a Very Drama-Free Day; Back to Watching Data
Tuesday helped buck the recent trend of frustratingly counterintuitive selling sprees in the bond market. The amount of blame assigned to politics or to the arcane practices dictating monthly positioning in bonds can be debated, but there’s less urgency on that front with today bringing moderate improvement. Fed Chair Powell’s appearance at SINTRA was a non-event, but perhaps in a “no whammies” sort of way. Bonds gradually improved during his time on stage but lost some ground after the JOLTS data (as it should be, considering the higher than expected reading). Buyers held firm, however, and we hit the close with gains intact. To some, that’s proof positive that there’s no glacial repricing of risk following the presidential debate. To others, it’s a suggestion that it didn’t matter as much as it may have seemed. Either way, we have big ticket data to look forward to in the next two business days.
Job Openings (lower = better for rates)
8.14m vs 7.91m f’cast, 7.919m prev
Job “Quits” (lower = better for rates)
3.459m vs 3.452m prev
09:46 AM
Moderately stronger overnight with additional gains in early trading. MBS up more than an eighth. 10yr down 4bps at 4.423
11:00 AM
Some weakness after JOLTS, but improving again now. MBS up 7 ticks (.22) and 10yr down 3.1bps at 4.433
02:53 PM
Modest additional improvement with 10yr down 2.9bps at 4.435 and MBS up 6 ticks (.19)
04:54 PM
Closing at decent levels, right in line with the previous update.
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