Maximizing Your Small Space

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Whether you live in an apartment or a small home, maximizing the amount of space you have is imperative to successful, happy living. Homeowners are often discouraged by owning a small space because it can be more difficult to decorate and express their creativity. We want to help homeowners take advantage of their small spaces by incorporating these four strategic tips. 

Four Tips for Maximizing The Potential of Your Small Space: 

Tip No. 1: Incorporate Appropriately-Sized Items.

When you are trying to maximize the size of a small space, incorporating low-level furniture can help make the room look bigger and the ceilings feel taller. Also, try to use smaller sized items when decorating to save wall space. Plus, the smaller sized items will help the room look bigger than it is. 

Tip No. 2: Explore Colors.

If you are renting and have permission to change the wall colors, go for it! This is the perfect opportunity to make the space your own while opening up the room. Do not be afraid of dark colors! Yes, it is true that light colors can open up a space, but dark colors can diminish lines and edges by creating a sleek space. 

Tip No. 3: Use Multi-Functional Furniture.

When homeowners are tight on space, purchasing multi-purpose items can help with space, storage, and functionality. Items that serve dual-purposes can help when you are in a pinch for space. For example, a coffee table that turns into a desk can help homeowners with working from home.

Tip No. 4: Minimize.

Decorating a small space can be a bit of a challenge because of the limited wall space. Homeowners should keep in mind that less can be more when decorating. Each room should only have a few items that make a statement. For example, a decorative mirror, bright colored lamp, shelf with fancy items, and a vase with flowers can be perfect for a small bedroom’s decor.

Pro-Tip: When shower space is limited, try to only keep one bottle of each different type of bath products. This will free up shelf space and present a much cleaner look.  

We hope that these four tips help you in decorating your small space to the maximum its potential. Do you have any tips to share with others? We would love to hear your feedback in the comment section. 

How to Successfully Use Neutrals

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Decorating with neutrals may seem easy, but we have six things that you may want to consider before you begin your next design project. Let’s take a look!  

How to Successfully Use Neutrals in Your Design:

No. One: Warm vs. Cool Tone. 

Before you begin exploring all neutrals have to offer, it is important to understand that there are two different types of neutrals: cool-tone and warm-tone. The undertone of neutral colors will determine whether or not they are in fact a warm or cool-tone. If the undertone consists of browns, reds, oranges, or yellows, the neutral is warm-toned. If the undertone consists of blues, purples, or greens, the neutral is cool-toned. Once you have decided on your undertone, it is imperative to decorate within that color scheme throughout the room. This will help make sure everything is consistent and flows properly. For example, if you go with a warm-toned neutral, you will want to decorate with warm tones color. This will create the seamless look you desire. 

No. Two: The Perfect Backdrop. 

Neutrals are incredible backdrops because they do not take away from the room. When in doubt, select a wall color that is a neutral and you can rest assured that your room’s design will work with it. 

No. Three: Layers. 

It is important to layer different textures and patterns in neutral colors. If you only have neutral solids, your room may feel dry and uninteresting. Instead, layer textured pillows, blankets, and even rugs to create depth and appeal. 

No. Four: Contrast. 

You will want to add some contrast to your neutrals to make sure that you create a well-rounded room. Be sure to use both dark and light colors throughout your space for a timeless look. 

No. Five: Light vs. Dark Paint. 

Neutral walls can either be light or dark. There are benefits of choosing both values. Light walls can create a clean, sophisticated look, while dark walls can create a sultry, romantic, and cozy vibe. It really depends on which look you are going for when determining which value you will want to choose. 

No. Six: All Colors Have a Neutral-Side. 

You may be thinking that neutral tones just include beige, gray, greige, white and black, but you would be wrong. In fact, every single color can have a neutral side to it. You can have neutral pinks as well as neutral blues. They are duller than the normal “pink” or “blue” tone, but they work well throughout a neutral-toned room. Just be sure that you pair them with their cool or warm-toned colors to make sure that it all flows together.  

How do you use neutrals throughout your space? We would love to hear your comments and feedback in the comment section below! 

Tips & Tricks for a Small Backyard

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Want the backyard of your dreams, but lack the space? For families that living in small spaces, it can be a challenge to enjoy a tiny outdoor space. So how can you stretch a little square footage into a space that rivals the magazines? We are going to show you inexpensive ways to maximize limited outdoor space. Let’s take a look! 
 
1. Take Advantage of the View. 
When arranging your outdoor furniture, you need to capture the widest point of view; therefore, you will need to avoid positioning your furnishing against the house, especially if plants, a fence, or other elements are obscuring the view. Find out what areas in the yard allow for a clear view of the length of your backyard.
 
2. Limit Your Planting.
Since you want to fully enjoy your backyard retreat, you do not want to place too much emphasis on plant life. Sometimes a garden can take up too much space in your backyard. Opt for a few low-maintenance potted or container plants that are a few inches tall. They can be easily moved so that they do not obscure the view, but still, fulfill your need for the wildlife.
 
3. Small Scale Furniture.
When shopping for outdoor furniture, you should lean more towards smaller-scaled furniture for a small backyard. Pick out pieces that feature thin frames and petite seating areas. For example, round bistro-style tables and chairs are perfect for a tiny backyard. Invest in furniture that is multifunctional. Tables that serve as seating options and ottoman style tables that allow you to store items can be a perfect choice! 
 
4. Furnishing Needs.
You will need to consider your furnishing needs before making the final decision. Elaborate outdoor furniture may look stylish but is it ideal for your lifestyle? If you do not plan on entertaining guests, you may be best suited with modest, simple type of furnishing.
 
5. Simple Color Palette.
Keep it simple when coordinating colors for your outdoor living space. Implementing too many different types of accents, colors and plants will make the space look chaotic and disorganized. Choose a couple of your favorite colors, make sure that they harmonize with one another and add in accessories that embrace the palette.
 
Check back weekly for more design tips and tricks! Thanks for reading. 

Filling Blank Walls (When paint is not an option)

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Whether you are renting your home or simply afraid to commit to something, filling your bare walls without the use of paint becomes quite the challenge. There are many different ways for various budgets on how to dress up the walls in your home. That is where we come in to help. Check out these effortless ways for decorating the walls without using paint.
 
Filling Blank Walls (When paint is not an option): 
  • Semi-Permanent Wallpaper
When it comes to wallpaper, you either love it or hate it; however, modern wallpaper is chic, and it can add color, interest, and design into any room. For a semi-permanent look, consider peel and stick wallpaper, which is easy to install and less permanent than traditional wallpaper. You can easily remove it when you want. 
 
Ultimately, wallpaper as an accent piece can be used to pull together the entire theme of the space. You can use wallpaper in every room or use it to make an accent wall.
  • Tapestry
Wall tapestry is a unique way to decorate your walls because you can use it to tell a story. During ancient times, tapestries were made by weavers who created patterns, portraits, and historical scenes through them. You can select a tapestry that features a bohemian or more creative design; it is all according to your preferences. You can hang it above a piece of furniture or in a wall nook; the options are endless.
  • Floating Shelves with Your Fave Knick Knacks
For wall decor that is both functional and stylish, you can install a few floating shelves on your wall and curate your accessories. You can mount the brackets on the wall or have them fastened into the wall. While there is no wrong or right way to arrange accessories on the wall, in order to give it that true designer look, be sure to give each item some space between them. When picking out items, choose some things that compliment the color palette used within the room.
 
  • Wall Decals
Wall decals are fun and they are a temporary way to liven up a monotone space. From full wall murals to customized decals, there are a plethora of options. Decals are especially great for creating a fun vibe in a child’s room. Decals, when installed indoors, can last indefinitely but can be easily removed.
 
How do you dress up your blank walls? We would love to know! Be sure to tell us in the comment section. 

Finding Storage

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While searching for a home, storage can be a key component in the decision-making process. An ideal home will offer a plethora of cabinets, shelving, and storage areas. But during the home search, you may have to compromise on less storage for other items on your must-have list. If you are struggling to find storage, do not worry because we have five solutions for finding extra storage in your home!  

Five Storage Ideas: 

1. Headboard.

Your bed’s headboard can be the perfect place for extra storage. You can use a bookcase as a headboard for an instant solution or you can build something more your style. You can even add baskets or decorative boxes on the bookcase to keep things tidy and accessible at a moment’s notice. 

2. Coffee Table.

Do not let this perfect storage opportunity pass you by whileyou are shopping for furniture. Make sure to buy a coffee table that is full of extra storage. Many homeowners use their coffee table’s storage as an opportunity to store their blankets, magazines, remotes, and DVD’s. 

3. Bathroom Mirror.

The bathroom mirror is the perfect place for extra storage. If your bathroom is lacking storage, add in a mirror that opens up to an area of hidden storage. You will find that this hidden storage is perfect for hiding items like toothpaste, brushes, and other bathroom essentials. 

4. Underneath Your Bed.

If the underneath of your bed is an open space, fill it with baskets, bins or drawers. Utilize this space for all of your non-essential items like out-of-season clothing or extra blankets. 

5. Door Organizer.

The doors on your cabinets have the potential to add more storage. You can purchase a door organizer to take advantage of the extra space. Try add door organizers on your bathroom and garage doors for storing items. 

6. Containers.

To keep things organized and neat, you can use plastic containers with lids. The containers can help you organize and store your belongings without compromising too much space. 

Pro-Tip: Make sure to label the outside of your containers. This will help you find what you are looking for when you are in a crunch for time. 

We hope you enjoyed these quick and easy solutions! Let us know what you think in the comment section. 

Expert Bathroom Renovation Tips

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In the housing market, bathrooms are considered one of the buyer’s top priorities. Even if you are not selling, bathrooms are an essential part of the home. To help with renovation basics, we have created a simple guide with expert tips. Let’s get started! 

Expert Bathroom Renovation Tips:  

1. Built-Ins. 

Built-ins were definitely a trend of the past but they are making their way back into the remodeling game. Built-in’s can be considered a huge bonus in bathrooms because of their extra storage. If you renovating your bathroom, ask your contractor if it would be wise to add some built-in units. From extra shelving to a medicine cabinet, built-in units can be a total game changer. 

2. Color.

Before the renovation, you want to take a look at all other the color palette options. We recommend keeping the palette light to create a relaxing, breezy feel. For bathroom remodels, you will ideally want to set the tone with color. Lighter colors will help to keep the space tranquil and stress-free. 

3. Lights.

Lighting can be one of the most important and commonly overlooked aspects of a bathroom. Be sure that you add the proper amount of lighting inside of the bathroom. You want to be able to see during a morning shave or while putting on makeup. That being said, we recommend that you also add a dimming effect. This can help set the tone of relaxation after a long, stressful day. 

4. Fixtures. 

If your fixtures are outdated, it is time for an upgrade. Sleek fixtures can help tie together an entire room; therefore, you want to be sure that you swap out your old ones. 

5. Storage.

Struggling to find space in your bathroom can be frustrating. Be sure to add extra storage, hooks, and bars to your bathroom to avoid any unwanted frustration. 

6. Mirrors.

Mirrors are not solely for looking at yourself. They also add a design aspect to the entire room. Since the mirror itself can cost a lot of money, use your current mirror and replace the frame around it. This will help save money within your budget while updating your out-dated items. 

7. Floors. 

We believe flooring can be an important aspect in a bathroom. From added luxury with heated floors to a breath-taking backsplash with gorgeous tiles, your bathroom can be completely transformed with the perfect flooring. 

Be sure to check back weekly for more home advice.

Budget-Friendly Curb Appeal Updates

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Are you looking for budget-friendly and quick updates that make for amazing curb appeal? Then you came to the right place! With our top six tips, you can have your neighborhood’s best-looking home in no time. Let’s take a look! 

Budget-Friendly Curb Appeal Updates:

1. Fresh Coat of Paint.

Oh, the vast wonders that a can of paint can do. Not only is paint valuable on the inside of your home but it can immensely impact your outdoor area and ultimately, increase your curb appeal. For easy and budget-friendly updates, we recommend repainting items like your front door and window shutters, especially if they are in good condition. A simple coat of paint can bring your home back to life. It will help spruce up any unsightly marks and renews the appearance of your home’s exterior. 

2. Updated Hardware. 

The next step would be to replace outdated hardware like your door handles and house numbers. You will want to replace your door handles once you repaint your door to ensure no paint drips onto your new hardware. Also, it is important to replace house numbers because it is the first thing that guest will see when they come to your home. If you think about it, when you go to a location for the first time, you are essentially looking for their house numbers and in essence, directly at them. That is why you will want to replace rusted or worn-down house numbers with a more trendy set. 

3. New Mailbox. 

Another simple tip is to replace your current mailbox. An outdated mailbox can bring down your curb appeal without you even realizing it. Luckily, replacing your mailbox can be inexpensive and a quick fix.

4. Plant Flowers & Trees.

There is nothing better than a little nature for a gorgeous, colorful addition to your home’s exteriors. Try to incorporate some plants throughout your front yard for a little bit of greenery and beauty. 

5. Upgrade Exterior Lights.

Not only can exterior lights help with safety and security but they can also help your home look better during the nighttime. Plus, you may find it helpful to add a couple of lights surrounding your walkway to help you get to and from your home during the night.

6. Maintenance & Upkeep. 

Maintenance is an essential part to curb appeal. Without proper upkeep, your yard could become messy and undesirable. Be sure to mow your lawn, rake away leaves, and sweep away debris from your sidewalk to keep your home’s exterior in tip-top shape. 

We hope you enjoyed these tips and tricks and that your home becomes your neighborhood’s shining star. Be sure to check back weekly for more design and decorating advice. 

Four Reasons Why You Should Consider Recessed Lighting

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Whether you are making small updates in your living space or you are launching a full out remodel project, you cannot forget about your home’s lighting. A major lighting upgrade that you will want to make is to install recessed lights. They are used in the most well-lit homes across the country. Recessed lights, commonly referred to as downlights, are lighting fixtures that are installed into a hollow open in the ceiling. Here are some reasons why you should consider installing recessed lighting in your home. Let’s take a look!
 
Four Reasons Why You Should Consider Recessed Lighting:  
1. Adds a Dramatic Flair.
Many design professionals gravitate towards downlights because they instantly add drama to any space. By pushing the stream of light downward, it creates a spotlight effect that draws attention to a specific area. You can even use recessed lighting to highlight an architectural feature such as a fireplace or even a piece of artwork.
 
2. Makes a Space Seem Bigger.
You can use recessed lighting to make a room feel and look much more spacious. Since the downlights sit in a can concealed by the structure of the ceiling, there is nothing that is hanging downward to interrupt the visual space in the ceiling. Recessed lighting also creates an effect known as “wall washing”. Wall washing provides an even distribution of light from the floor to the ceiling. To create this effect, the downlight will need to have the right kind of trim installed on it. Also, the recessed lights will need to be correctly spaced apart. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the ceiling the further apart the lights need to be.
 
3. Creates Focused Lighting.
Pendant lighting and traditional lamps do not necessarily provide usable lights that reach the countertops and tables because the light stream tends to break up before it reaches its destination. Unlike ambient lighting sources, recessed lights excel greatly at illuminating specific areas and double height spaces.
 
4. Establishes Discreet Lighting.
Recessed lights are the most discreet lighting option. The size of downlights is becoming smaller and smaller due to modern technology. In fact, the standard recessed cans are about six inches and they are giving way to two/ three-inch cans. Such discreet lighting solutions create clean lines and streamlined look.
 
Where would you add recessed lighting in your home? We would love to hear in the comment section. 

5 Ways to Make Different Colors Blend

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Brown or taupe? Or white versus gray? One thing that these hues all have in common is that they have a neutral base. Do you find yourself feeling confined to neutrals out of fear of experimenting with color? While a neutral palette will always be a designer favorite, some of us crave a bit of bold color. How can you implement such vibrant hues in your decor without going overboard? There is no need to wonder because we are going to show you how to effortlessly blend colors in your home. Let’s get started!
 
5 Ways to Make Different Colors Blend:
1. Tone on Tone.
One way you can experiment with color is to use tone on tone hues. What exactly does that mean? It involves using the same color but variations of the hue throughout the space. A tone on tone scheme will make you feel like you are using a lot of colors while in reality, you are sticking with the same hue. A great tone on tone color that you can play with is blue. Consider combining a soft baby blue, a chilly blue and a dark navy for a tone on tone look. Afterward, you can accent the space with violet or red.
 
2. Break up Color with Neutrals.
Use neutral elements to break up the “color on color” look. When your space begins to feel like it is becoming a bit too much, you can incorporate more neutrals. For example, if you have a room with yellow walls and other variations of this hue throughout the space, you will want the trim on the walls to be a neutral tone like white. This can add a sense of balance while emphasizing this neutral element. Introduce as many neutrals as you want until you tame the look to your liking.
 
3. Wood Elements. 
Another great way to diffuse a colorful design scheme that feels off-balanced is to incorporate some elements of wood. The soft touches of wood can add a lot of natural warmth while creating a balance inside of the space. 
 
4. Do Not Forget About Texture.
When working with different colors, you cannot forget to enhance the design by using texture. Rough or rich textured objects such as lacquered furniture, a brick wall or even unfinished flooring can add interest, depth, and detail into your space. 
 
5. Using Multiple Colors. 
When using various colors within a single space, you will want to use something that can tie together all the different hues. For instance, a colorful piece of artwork or accessory like a patterned throw pillow can help harmonize all the colors being used. 
 
We hope you enjoyed these five ways to make different colors blend throughout your space. Be sure to check back weekly for more design tips and tricks! 

Designing a Bathroom on a Budget

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Bathroom decor can easily be overlooked. With a lot of our focus being on other rooms, we may throw together a mediocre design for the bathroom and call it a day. But with a little planning and love, your bathroom can be fully designed and decorated to make you proud. Plus, with our top eight tops, you can stick to a budget and have the bathroom of your dreams. Keep reading to find out how.

Designing a Bathroom on a Budget:

1. Simplicity Please. 

Bathrooms are simple by nature. Their color scheme can follow the same guidelines. Be sure to keep it simple when it comes to colors. Soft neutrals can help set the tone while not taking away from the rest of the space. But if you are looking to add colorful walls, we recommend pairing it with only neutrals like black or white to help balance out the space. For example, if your heart is set on a deep blue, you may find it helpful to pair it with black and white. These colors will add to the color scheme without demanding too much attention. Plus, you can accent it further with something like gold fixtures.

2. Textures and Such. 

A simple way to add detail without breaking the bank is to incorporate more texture. Instead of solid items, you will want to add textures with divine details. For example, you will want you can incorporate a textured bath rug or fringed towels to help add a little more depth.

3. Marvelous Mirror. 

Mirrors are a big deal in any room, but especially in bathrooms. Be sure to make a statement with a unique mirror for your bathroom wall. If you want to stick to a budget, you can explore local thrift shops to find inspiration. 

4. All in The Details. 

Do not forget to add decor pieces throughout your bathroom to add a little bit of a personal touch. Glass dishes for jewelry, decorative canisters for cotton swabs, and mason jars for your toothbrushes are examples of functional yet stylish decor pieces that you can include. 

5. Glamorous Additions. 

When designing a bathroom, you want to pay attention to all of the little details. Do not let your hardware be overlooked. Be sure to replace outdated hardware with more stylish pieces. 

6. Picture-Worthy. 

If your walls feel bare, you can incorporate artwork into the space. Simple pictures or artistic crafts can help add character without costing too much money. 

7. In The Air. 

If you are searching for a little extra storage, floating wall shelves can do just the trick. Not only are they stylish, but they provide homeowners with extra space to store all of their bathroom essentials. 

8. A Flawless Transition.

When decorating any room in your home, you want to make sure that it transitions well from the rest of your home. For example, when you enter the bathroom from the hallway, do the rooms transition well into one another? If not, you will want to try to select a color scheme that is transitional and complimentary to your surrounding rooms. 

 Be sure to check back weekly for more design tips and tricks. Thanks for reading!