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Mike Johnston

4 Trendy & Unique Kitchen Layouts

April 19, 2021
Mike Johnston
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Getting the proper layout for your kitchen is the most crucial thing in ensuring a practical and functional kitchen area. Whether you are operating in a small cramped kitchen or a large, expensive one, creative kitchen layouts are important in ensuring that you get the most of this room. In the kitchen, there is a lot more than just the arrangement of furniture and cabinets. Ergonomics is another critical factor—ensuring there is enough space for movements, having the right heights, ease of use, and appliance placement are essential to your room’s enjoyment.

Although your house floor plan will determine the layout for your kitchen, you can easily customize and optimize the room to look more comfortable. A newly redone kitchen can increase the resale value of a home. If you plan to sell your home later on, improving your kitchen’s layout is a worthwhile investment. Here are the top four unique kitchen layouts that will not only add value to your home, but will also increase its appearance.

layouts Photo by Sidekix Media on Unsplash 

1. L-Shaped kitchen layouts

This layout tops this list as it helps you solve the problem of optimally utilizing the corner spaces. It’s also an intelligent design in case you have a limited kitchen space. The versatile L-shaped kitchen features countertops on two walls that meet at a perpendicular angle. The length of the L legs can be as long as you want them to be. But it’s recommended that you keep them between 12 and 15 feet to ensure that space is used efficiently.

This layout is also better in eliminating traffic in the kitchen—the kitchen won’t become like a street because the shape automatically eliminates the possibility. Besides, with this renovation, you can add more work zones or dining space.

layouts Photo by Jessica Lewis from Pexels

2. Horseshoe kitchen design

This layout is also referred to as a U-shape kitchen layout. It features three walls of cabinets, along with storage sections for appliances. In the modern days, this layout has gradually graduated into an L-Shaped layout but with an island. The U-shaped kitchen layout is preferable because it allows traffic in the kitchen without congestion.

layouts Photo by Ralph (Ravi) Kayden on Unsplash 

3. Kitchen with an island

The island kitchen layout is a trendy layout owing to the fact that it offers ample working space at the center of the kitchen. The island incorporates the cooking surface and can also be used as the food preparation area. While you may require a large enough space to leave an island in the middle of your room, the island is a great way to minimize traffic and congestion.

layouts Photo by Jason Briscoe on Unsplash 

4. The peninsula kitchen

This layout is closely related to the island kitchen incorporating a countertop jutting out of the wall or cabinetry. This is an excellent way of creating more space where you have limited kitchen space to allow for an island. This area can be used for preparing food, taking meals, and other essential kitchen chores. The most durable and easy-to-clean countertops are made from quartz material. Kitchen countertops with quartz material are popular in Austin and a great choice for busy families.

 

With urban house sizes and spaces shrinking every day, you want to make the most out of every inch at your disposal, especially in the kitchen. This is why going for the most creative kitchen layouts is paramount. Having the best kitchen layout doesn’t have to cost an arm or a leg. The above ideas will help you to turn odd into bespoke with the minimum cost possible. Choose one of the kitchen layouts above to kick-start your modern kitchen layouts that stands out.

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13 Multifunctional Furniture Pieces To Make The Most Of Your Home

January 15, 2021
Mike Johnston
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You could live in a small apartment or in a large house, but space is always something you can get more out of if you are strategic in your choice of furniture. Instead of choosing items that serve one purpose only, go for furniture that works harder for you and that brings multifunctionality to your home without sacrificing style. 

 

Here are a few examples of types of furniture that accomplish more than one purpose: 

1. Entrance bench with storage

Make furniture work for you right from the entrance to your home. Add an entrance bench with storage capabilities in this area. The shelf or cubbies below can host the shoes you’re planning on wearing regularly. Find a wheeled one so you can easily move it around and even hide it inside a hallway closet if you’re looking to amp up the space.

Photo provided by STORAGECafé

2. Mirror with built-in hooks

Your entryway could also benefit from another dual-function item: a mirror that comes with hooks. You can check your hairstyle before leaving the home and also hang up your coat in the same spot!

3. Triple-purpose couch

Couch by day, bed by night, and with an additional bookshelf to add some much-needed extra storage. What item could spell multifunctionality better than this one? Feel free to mark down your calendar because you already have a bed for your next guests!

4. Coffee table and dining room table (two in one)

An instant dining room table or a versatile coffee table? You can pick the name, but this adjustable-height item can work as two separate pieces of furniture. Use it as a coffee table primarily and let it transform into a dining room table when you have guests over.

5. Vintage trunk side table

Shop the thrift stores for a vintage trunk with character that can be a great addition to your living room aesthetic. Besides, the trunk can also offer hidden storage for blankets and extra throws while hosting decorations or books on top. Who said functionality and style can’t come together?

6. Ottoman storage

An ottoman provides extra seating in your living room, but there’s more to it. Most ottomans come with extra storage. You can keep your extra magazines inside of it, for example. Also, if you’re in a crunch for space, use the ottoman as a coffee table if the surface is sturdy enough. 

7. Window bench with cubbies

You can get excellent use of the space under a window if you place a cushioned bench with cubby-holes there. They can hold magazines and books or they can be home to your child’s toys. You can use them to create a sunny reading nook where you can take in the natural light. 

8. Fold-out desk with wall-mounted shelf

For many of us, having a work desk at home became a necessity in 2020. Why not use one that folds out and provides the necessary storage space for your office essentials and more? Pick a fold-out desk that comes with a built-in shelf where all your files and pens can have a home. There’s also room for reference books or the occasional item of décor your home needs to feel cozy.

9. Murphy bed

The functionality of the Murphy bed can’t be beat, but when you add a built-in shelving unit above the bed you get so much more! The shelves framing the bed will allow for ample storage room for your essentials, whether you have an impressive book collection or you’re looking to incorporate your bedroom essentials into the décor. For maximum utility, make sure to get a Murphy bed that also offers closet capabilities when you fold it up. 

Photo provided by STORAGECafé

10. Mirror with storage ladder

There never seems to be enough space to hang everything, so a dual-purpose mirror is exactly what you need. Place it on the floor and use the ladder at the back to store blankets that you’re not using or other small items that need a temporary home such as scarves or other accessories. 

11. Wheeled kitchen island

There isn’t much a kitchen island can’t do for you, especially when it’s on wheels! Use the surface as a cooking station, while the top drawers are the perfect places to keep smaller kitchen utensils. The lower built-in cabinets can host all manner of kitchen appliances and accessories that you frequently use. The beauty of this item is that you can move it out of the way if you have guests and you could use that extra space.

12. Bathroom bench with storage

Add a cushioned bench in your bathroom close to the shower, in an area that rarely sees practical use. The drawer beneath is the perfect spot to store toiletries and towels. This is a perfect addition, especially if your bathroom lacks the cabinets needed for all the products you regularly use there. Make sure the cushion above the bench can withstand the moisture in the room.

13. Green lawn seat

Your outdoor space can also benefit from smart setups that bring more than one use for you. If you’ve always wanted a bench and a planter but space isn’t on your side, there’s a solution that helps you avoid that problem. You can have both: Add two planters and connect them with a plank to create that much-desired bench. Now you can smell the roses while you take a rest in your new favorite outdoor spot!

Declutter and store extra stuff away from home

A lot of times, home storage solutions do not suffice when it comes to accommodating all your household items. In that case, you can turn to self storage to help you keep seasonal clothing, hobby gear, home appliances, holiday decorations or even some furniture so that you can enjoy a clutter-free life. If you live in a place where the climate is humid, such as Florida or Texas, make sure to consider a unit with a climate-controlled environment to protect your sensitive items. Climate-controlled storage units in Miami, for example, are easy to find and are relatively inexpensive, so that turning to storage away from home won’t hurt your household budget much, all while giving you more room to breathe at home.

 

Did we help you find the multipurpose furniture you were looking for? Let us know in the comments section below.

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Stylish and Cohesive: How to Mix Different Wood Finishes in Your Home Decor

January 13, 2021
Mike Johnston
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There is something charming about wooden furniture that makes it a staple in practically every home. Usually associated with feelings of warmth, comfort, and richness, wooden furnishings can easily transform any room and make it feel more homely and inviting while at the same time offering high quality and a timeless look. When it comes to mixing and matching furnishings with different wood finishes, things can get a little tricky.

You want to create a look that looks stylish and cohesive, and for that to happen, you will need to consider a couple of factors. To help you out, we are listing a couple of useful tips for skillfully mixing and matching different wood finishes in your home decor.

Use wood finishes with common undertones

When looking to mix woods in the same room, the best place to start would be to identify the undertones. Different woods will have a different color temperature or undertone, and how you combine them will largely impact the overall feel of the room and whether it feels connected or not.

Your safest bet would be to use common undertones. There are wood finishes with warm undertones ( maple, walnut, white oak) – they are unstained, and they have a natural, warm feel. They’ll appear either red, yellow, or orange, and they can easily be mixed and matched. There are also wood finishes with cool undertones. These are stained woods, and they’re easy to combine, and with a variety of options to choose from (maple with charcoal stain, ash with sand stain, etc.), it’s easy to appeal to every taste. Using wood finishes with common undertones will result in a balanced look since all the tones will complement each other.

wood finishes Photo by R ARCHITECTURE on Unsplash

Add visual interest by creating contrast

Another way you can incorporate different wood finishes in your home decor and achieve a balanced look is to play with contrast. If you don’t want to be too bold, you can take a more subtle route and use pieces with dark and light wood finishes that are not as contrasting. For instance, you can go for combinations such as medium and dark or light and medium.

You can also create contrast by opting for pieces that have a different grain pattern and size. Varying wood grains will add interest to your interiors and have a significant impact on the overall appeal of the room regardless of the way you choose to incorporate wood into your interior space. If you are, however, drawn to a bolder, more dramatic look, you can go for a high-contrast mix, combining dark-stained finishes with pale ones.

Incorporate a unifying piece into the mix

This is a great tip for someone who’s just starting out and wants to make sure that all the elements are tied perfectly together. It can be as simple as adding one element that will act as a bridge between warm and cool tones in the room. 

A great example of “bridge” wood is, of course, reclaimed wood because of its uniqueness, character, and history, but some other great options include spalted sugarberry, zebrawood, and pieces with burled finishes. Because they contain a range of tones, they’ll act as a unifying piece for all the other wood finishes, creating visual balance and tying everything together into a cohesive whole.

wood finishes Photo by Vlada Karpovich from Pexels

Soften the transition with warm, cozy textiles

Every room can benefit from incorporating a wooden touch, but it is a good idea to add some textiles into the mix as well. Introducing a couple of layers will create a buffer between the woods and soften the transition from one tone of wood to another.

Area rugs are some of the decor pieces that are commonly used to soften the mix and create a soothing transition, acting as an effective layer of texture for rooms with wooden floors and plenty of wooden furniture while also upping the cozy factor in your home. 

Wrapping up

Using natural materials such as wood is a great way to infuse your interiors with a touch of nature and design spaces that exude warmth and comfort. Whether you prefer a rustic look or gravitate more towards modern design, no worries – wood blends with practically every style.

If you take the time to learn how to successfully mix wood finishes, you will be able to bring a sense of balance and cohesiveness into your interiors and take your home decor to a whole new level.

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5 Beautiful Ways To Introduce Raw Materials Into Your Interiors

August 20, 2020
Mike Johnston
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This season is all about bringing the outside in and taking the inside out. A need to connect with nature has never been more desirable than it is today when we have already stayed away from our natural roots far into the depths of technological innovations. One way to become one with Mother Nature once again is to introduce raw, natural materials into your house. Start by checking out some of our ideas on how to enhance your home in a nature-friendly manner.

Photo by Kam Idris on Unsplash

Incorporate wooden elements for the finishing touches

Wood is the ultimate finishing material and the reason that so lies in the many possible ways you can design it for any purpose you imagine. It can be transformed into anything from a raw and unstained cover with knots and grains to a marble-like surface. In any case, one thing is for sure – it looks great. Bringing wood into your home is one of the most efficient ways to reconnect your everyday space with nature. 

Aside from the finishing touches, you can use wood to completely cover your floors, ceilings, and walls, giving the room a rustic, cabin-like look. Wooden furniture is also very welcome since it is the most sustainable furnishing solution. 

Image by khiem tran from Pixabay

Enjoy a lifetime of quality flooring with concrete

If you want a truly long-lasting flooring solution, you should be on the lookout for sustainable decorative concrete which has become incredibly trendy in interior design. You can choose to have your concrete flooring done in different colors, but probably the most stylish choice would be to leave it raw and exposed. This type of flooring will definitely look the same for many years just as it looks today. 

There are several ways to use decorative concrete, but the most obvious choices are definitely driveways, pool surrounds, paths, and al frescos. By leaving the concrete design exposed, you’ll prevent slipping and also nail that natural look that fits perfectly in both an indoor and an outdoor landscape. 

Photo by Huy Phan from Pexels

Color your house with lavish greenery

Probably the healthiest way to invite nature into your home is to let the greenery in. Plants are not only lush stylish décor elements but they are also natural air purifiers, which gives them the title of number one must-have element in any eco-friendly, nature-oriented home. All kinds of flowers and potted plants are welcome and the more you have – the happier you will be.

Psychologists have shown that the color green has calming effects, which any Zen lover can confirm. While large plants and small indoor trees are more suitable accent items for bigger rooms, don’t forget that there are hanging plants that can easily fit in smaller rooms and look just as adorable.

Photo by Ksenia Chernaya from Pexels

Paint your home with the colors of the wind

When it comes to choosing a color palette, focus on the hues you can find in nature and forget about strongly pigmented RGB mutant colors. If your first thought is that you should make your home plain green and brown because these are the colors that first come to mind, remember that nature is much more colorful than that. You might find various shades of red quite interesting, such as brick red, burnt red or terracotta, while marine blues can complement these reddish tones in order to make the perfect blend with the wooden and sandy shades.

Mocha, beige and sage green are another winning combination for those of you who are fans of brighter hues. With just a bit of grey coming from the concrete flooring and a cozy fireplace, you will have yourself the ultimate nature color palette.

Photo by Alisha Hieb on Unsplash

Trust in the beauty of raw imperfection

Remember that the word “raw” can be translated into rough and imperfect. The art of incorporating raw elements into your home lies in leaving it unfinished – just like nature would. It’s not that often possible to see sharp corners and steep edges in nature, yet we tend to geometrize every part of our homes. In order to avoid this artificial setting, opt for curvy edges and imperfect finishes as much as you can.

 

Incorporating raw materials into your home will only bring you one step closer to nature, but consider this being only an intro into a more organic and eco-friendly lifestyle. Some further steps could be trying to reduce the amount of waste you produce, shopping for organic ingredients, and cycling to work. You will see how every new step towards a more natural way of living will only become easier.

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The 2020 Interior Décor and Design Trends Set to Completely Transform Your Home

January 8, 2020
Mike Johnston
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Every decade has something that sets it aside from others, and as we’re evolving, so are our homes. The beginning of a new decade symbolizes the start of new trends, and 2020 is a time when we wave goodbye to some of the 2010s trends and turn on a new leaf in terms of interior design and decor.

While some trends are expected to evolve over the next year (think white kitchens and feature walls) new trends such as handmade goods and bold hues are expected to take over our living quarters. Here, we’re rounding up the most notable 2020 interior design and decor trends set to completely transform your home we’ll be seeing as we enter the next decade.

Neutral colours

A new take on neutrals

In 2020, the accent will be more on the warm neutral tones. Usually reserved for the background, neutrals are expected to be brought to the fore, with earthy tones like grays, beiges, off-whites, and ochres serving as a subdued, yet powerful connection with nature.

Tinted neutrals such as neo mint, a pastel green shade, are another trend expected to hit it big when it comes to 2020 interior design trends. Aside from incorporating the it colour of 2020 into your home (accent pieces are your safe bet), you should also try out a dusky peach, soft corals, slate lavender, terra cotta, golden yellows and updated versions of millennial pinks.

Sustainable interior design

Sustainable harmony

The interior design trends for 2020 represent a mixture of influences, two of the most notable ones being Japanese and Nordic. Natural materials like rattan and cane are staples that stand at the core of Japanese design style, and we can expect this trend of relying on natural elements for designing minimalist interiors to continue in 2020. Scandinavian influences are reflected in the use of organic shapes and sustainable materials such as undyed yarns, plush fabrics, natural wood, and terracotta earthenware.

The thoughtful, pared-back selection of decor items and furnishings will help create a space for relaxation and infuse the interiors with the elements from the great outdoors, resulting in a sustainable and harmonious living environment.

Authentic detailing

Accent on authenticity

In the next decade, we’re expecting to see homes being treated as a tool for self-expression, with an accent on authenticity and uniqueness. Interiors will be treated as blank canvases which we can use to tell our story, be it through colours, furniture, artwork, handmade items, or DIY projects.

The tendency towards creating spaces that capture the personality of the homeowners will prevail over the styled interiors they’d usually see when flipping through magazines. This trend will have many looking for ways to express their individuality without necessarily reaching for one-of-a-kind items but rather designing with their own preferences in mind, regardless of whether they’re on-trend or not. 

Colours and geometry

A bold blend of geometry and colours

For those of us who’d rather their interiors have a brighter, edgier vibe and forego the au naturel, all-neutral trend, 2020 has something for us as well. Stripes, circles, and rectangles are certain to spruce up flat and bland interiors, while the fusion of bold hues like dusky neutrals and tropical pastels with traditional hues will enhance the visual interest of the interior.

Vintage furniture design will be juxtaposed with contemporary pieces for a unique flair, while the Art Deco elements will bring a breath of fresh air while also infusing the interiors with a dose of sophistication.

From embracing the concept of sustainability to discovering new ways of interpreting minimalism and neutral hues, we’ll be seeing a shift in the ways we approach interior home design. 2020 will be all about individuality, and by the looks of it, there’s something for everybody, whether you take a liking to bold, edgy hues or prefer something a bit more subdued. Give these four trends a crack to give your home a decadal style makeover.

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5 Great Tips to Create a Stunning Retro Style Abode

September 26, 2019
Mike Johnston
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You’ve probably already noticed that numerous fashion and design styles we thought were long gone are making a huge comeback. One of these styles is undoubtedly the retro style. While in the previous years, everyone was looking to reduce their interiors to a bare minimum, embracing styles like minimalism, nowadays we can see more personality and fun being brought indoors with designs such as this one.

The retro style is probably one of the favorite styles from the past as it allows us to create stimulating living environments that both look stylish and cozy. That’s probably why it’s safe to say that this design style is certainly the one that’s here to stay. That being said, let’s see how you can retro up your abode and turn it into a stylish oasis everyone will be jealous of.

Brightly coloured chairs

Go for the colours and make them bright

Colours, especially bright ones, play a huge role in retro design. Some of the staples include the avocado green, mustard yellow, burnt orange and a lovely deep teal shade. Of course, browns and reds also play a significant role in the retro colour scheme. Blacks and whites are usually used minimally, only to enhance or accentuate the other shades. Pinks and purples are somewhat rare in retro design but when used, they are usually in dusty pink and royal purple tones. Therefore, the easiest way to create a retro vibe in your interior is by opening your door – and heart – to these beautiful retro shades. 

Go abstract with furniture and art

The furniture and art pieces that are the most typical in retro design style are usually anything but conventional. Abstract wall art and unique furniture pieces are usually where it’s at. That’s why you should go for pieces, such as a round, hanging, plastic chair or lush, roomy velvet sofa. Furthermore, think clean lines and simple design when talking about wooden furniture to avoid making your space come off as too busy. Finally, make sure that the art pieces you’ve chosen for your space don’t clash with the rest of your design.

Retro furniture

Make your personality shine with unusual décor

Unusual décor pieces are the things that will easily help you create a cozy atmosphere in your abode without necessarily trying too hard. The best part is that you can easily use these décor pieces to express your personal taste. Furthermore, if you’re lucky you will be able to find pieces that are not solely intended as décor but that also have a clear purpose. For instance, retro lamps represent the perfect combination of décor and purpose.

Fabrics and textures

Textures, textures everywhere

Textures also play a huge role in the retro design style. Some may even say that certain retro designs even go over the top with this design element. However, the fact is that you can never have too many textures in a retro-inspired space. Various fabrics, such as velvet – especially crushed velvet, satin and corduroy are just some of this design’s favorites. Aside from these, metal, plastic and wood also make for favorite choices, especially when furniture is concerned. Finally, you simply can’t have a retro-looking space without a shag rug, so don’t forget to include this design favorite as well.

Tie everything in

Finally, the easiest way to tie the entire design together is – as we already mentioned – with the use of some amazing shag rugs. You can either go with a single, oversized shag rug to serve as the base of the entire room or you can opt for a more layered vibe. Here, you can choose to layer a couple of smaller shag rugs on top of a durable rug with some interesting geometric shapes. When looking for geometric rugs, think in terms of the iconic hexagon design rug from “The Shining” – both the colours and the style of this rug simply scream retro!

 

So, if you want to welcome just a bit more interest and playfulness into your interior design, make sure you check out some of the retro design staples. Undoubtedly, you will fall in love with the design as many of us certainly did.

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Modern Design Style – 5 Essentials for Creating Beautiful Interiors

July 23, 2019
Mike Johnston
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Looking for a way to implement modern design style into your living space, but not sure where to start? Here are our top five essentials for creating beautiful modern interiors.

Don’t confuse modern with contemporary

Before you start decorating your home in a modern design style, you need to make a distinction between what’s considered modern and contemporary. The two terms are often used interchangeably, but they are two distinct design styles. There is some overlapping between the two in terms of simplicity of the space, restricted use of decor, and the implementation of furniture with clean lines and simple design. However, modern design style refers to a particular era of the twentieth century (the first half of the century, to be exact) while contemporary style is an ever-changing, ever-evolving design style that reflects a blend of several ongoing design trends that involve au courant details and pieces. Now that we’ve set the record straight, let’s jump into designing interiors in modern style.

Neutral colours

Choose a neutral color scheme for a modern look

Let’s start things off by tackling the basics first – the walls and the color scheme you use in your living space matter a lot when it comes to designing spaces in modern style. The colors that are most often used in modern interiors are white, beige, and gray, and for good reason, too. These colors are favored for their simplicity, elegance and the fact that they act as a black slate, which works great for this design style. White walls are especially useful for modern spaces since they allow your wall decor pieces to take the spotlight, which leads us to our next design tip…

Modern artwork

Add some modernist artwork to liven up the space

Implementing colors into your living space is a sure way to create a modern-looking home, and one way to do it is by hanging some interesting artwork on your walls. Expressive pieces of art that encompass unusual forms and vivacious colors, and capture the essence of the modernistic approach to art will liven up any space and provide it with an excellent focal point. To make your room look more cohesive, add throw pillows and flowers that complement the hues captured in the artwork and create a sense of balance. Whether you choose artwork that represents artistic movements such as Fauvism or Cubism, it will certainly elevate your living space and give it a modernesque vibe. 

Clean look

Declutter for a clean and simple look

Modern design shies away from superfluous amounts of items and decor, so it’s important to keep your living space free of clutter. Use Marie Kondo’s method for decluttering – discard everything you don’t really use and only keep what’s dear to your heart or, in the words of this popular organizing guru, the things that “spark joy”. Although we mentioned you can use a few art pieces and accessories to provide your place with a unique flair, it’s best to keep your belongings and everyday items stored away to create a clean and basic look. The simplicity of design is one of the most prominent characteristics of modern design style, and by decluttering your home, you will visually expand it and create an illusion of spaciousness.

Create a functional layout 

When designing a home in a modern style, you need to consider the functionality of the layout. Open spaces are one of the components of modern design, but if you can’t afford to have a couple of walls knocked down, you can still create the appearance of open space. One way to do it is by using neutral colors, as we have mentioned previously – choose plain, streamlined furniture pieces that are simple in design and shape, and preferably in earthy, natural tones. Definitely avoid bold pieces with patterns and prints, as they will make your space look busy and cluttered. Arrange your furniture in a way that allows for a free flow to create a sense of airiness and balance in your living space. 

To enjoy your home even more, use the tips above to create a living space that portrays the beautiful simplicity and practicality of modern design.

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Warm and Inviting: 5 Must-Haves for Creating a Cosy Guest Bedroom

May 24, 2019
Mike Johnston
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Unless you’re a true decorating junkie, it’s quite likely that your guest bedroom won’t be a top priority when you decorate your home. It’s a room you visit the least so it might seem silly to put extra thought and effort in sprucing it up. However, this is a room where your guests will spend a part of their time and it should be a warm and cosy place where they can feel comfortable and welcome. It definitely shouldn’t be devoid of character and it only needs a few essentials to become a perfect retreat for any visitor.

Guest bedroom style

Pick a style or theme

To start, just follow the theme of your entire home and carry its style through into the guest bedroom as well. If you don’t, the room might seem neglected or even forgotten and your guests could feel as if they were simply ditched there. A room with style will show that you care both about the space and how your guests feel in it. There are many directions you can take, from a coastal theme with a neutral palette and beach artwork to a room that doesn’t have a literal theme but seems well put together. What really counts is the thought you invest that will be visible in the end result.

A comfortable bed

Set up a comfortable bed

The choice of a bed for your guest bedroom will depend on the size of your home. Bigger homes usually have ample rooms and guest bedrooms with large beds. But in smaller homes, guest bedrooms often double as a home office, ironing room or some other purpose. In that case, opting for a sofa bed might be better as the room can then be a second living space when it’s not occupied. If you do go for a bed, cosy it up with multiple layers starting from a top sheet, to the duvet and extra throws. Some of your guests might be hot sleepers and others might be freezing in the peak of summer, so let them decide what they can take and what can be removed.

A bedside table

Everyone needs a bedside table

Even if you have a smaller bedroom for guests, you can squeeze in a tiny bedside table. Everyone needs a space to put down a bottle of water, their mobile phone, a book or glasses. The last thing you’d want is to force your guests to shove their things under the bed or on the floor. If there’s enough room for a larger bedside table, use it to put some fresh and welcoming details such as fresh flowers and scented candles. It will show extra effort on your part and make your visitors feel at home.

Special extras

By adding a few extra details in the guest bedroom can help your visitors get more comfortable and relaxed. Think in terms of little things that can occupy their attention when they need to rest from their daily activities with you, such as a collection of magazines, books, healthy snacks, crackers, power bars, bottled water and some freshly baked muffins. Another nice touch is adding a TV so your guests could enjoy their favourite show before bedtime. You can easily incorporate it into the existing décor or tuck it away in a cabinet. Most people nowadays love their gadgets and mobiles, so offer your Wi-Fi password in a visible place. Have some fun and instead of writing it on a piece of paper, frame it in a vintage photo frame or put it up on the wall along with other famous inspirational quotes.

Bathroom supplies

Bathroom essentials

A lot of guests tend to forget at least one of their toiletries so setting up a basket or a tray with bathroom essentials will be most welcome. Include a toothbrush and toothpaste, body and face wash, a neutral lotion, hand crème, shampoo and conditioner. And, don’t forget an extra hair dryer. Most travellers need as much space as they can get in their suitcases, so a hairdryer is usually left out, and it’s needed especially for ladies with long hair or Remy hair extensions.

With the help of these several guest bedroom essentials, you’ll be able to create a cosy, welcoming and comfortable space for anyone who visits your home.

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Go Big: Maximalism in Your Home

February 26, 2019
Mike Johnston
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While minimalism ruled our lives and our homes for quite some time now, it seems that some of us got really bored with it. So, we made some room for the new kid on the block – maximalism. Basically, a rebellious reaction against minimalism, maximalism embraces the aesthetics of redundancy and excess. However, when designing within the rules of maximalism, you can easily slip and fall into sloppiness. Therefore, you need to be careful when embracing maximalism. If you’re not sure how, here are some helpful tips.

Vibrant colors

The first staple of maximalism is vibrant colors. So, forget everything about toned-down hues and earthy nuances, and embrace vibrant, lively colors. Even though in minimalism you were also allowed to have a pop of color here and there, in maximalism, there are pops of color happening all around you.

So, the space you’ll create won’t be just colorful and bright, but it will completely eliminate that sterile vibe of a minimalist space. To avoid making the space look chaotic, try to go with colors that either complement one another in some sense, or the ones that completely contrast one another.

Natural materials

Natural materials also play a huge role in maximalism. Therefore, to create a unique look, try experimenting with mixing materials such as marble, leather, brushed metals and jute. Combining all of these (and any other you might think of) in your decor will add more interest to your design, as it will provide sensation not just for the eye but for the touch as well.

Therefore, think in terms of a coffee table with legs made of metal and the top surface made of marble, place it on a jute rug, add a nice round leather ottoman, as well as a potted cactus on the top table surface. If you are handy with yarn, you can even add a woven basket with colorful yarn and turn your hobby into an additional decor piece.

More is more

A sort of a mantra you should follow when decorating with maximalism in mind is more is always more. That’s why you should never shy away from using your overflowing bookshelves as a statement design piece in your living room or adding some more colorful throw pillows on your bed in the bedroom.

In the bathroom, you can decide to embellish your bathtub and go crazy with tile patterns or display all of your favorite mugs or plates in your kitchen. With the more is more mentality, you’ll create a space that looks a bit chaotic at first glance, but if you look closer, you’ll notice that everything is in its rightful place.

Play it smart

Now, we need to address the issue that’s most commonly left out of decor-oriented articles, and that is cleaning. While maximalism has its perks, cleaning a room decorated in this style can sometimes be a bit overwhelming.

However, this doesn’t mean that you’ll suddenly be faced with a choice to either live in dust and dirt or spend your entire life cleaning your home. No, this just means that you will have to clean a bit more often. On the other hand, to make things easier for you, you can arm yourself with various little helpers, like Roomba, to make this task easier.

Start collecting things

No, we’re not suggesting that you should become a hoarder. Instead, we’re advising you to start collecting something and turn it into your statement decor element. Since maximalism is already all about the opulence and having things on display, why not just give it your personal touch a bit more?

Your collection can consist of various vintage trinkets, ceramic figurines, nice glass bottles or even porcelain dolls, if they don’t absolutely terrify you. The important thing to remember is that you should find your thing, stick to it and put it on display so everyone can see.

As you can see, there are options for the people who find minimalism to be too sterile and boring. You just need to dig a bit deeper through the world of various styles and you’ll be sure to find something that works for you. Besides, you should be daring and not afraid to try new things out and this style is the perfect means through which you can let your true self shine.

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Home Remodelling Ideas that Will Pay Off in 2019

January 29, 2019
Mike Johnston
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The year 2019 is perfect for renovations that will boost the aesthetic appeal of your home or rental property. You can incorporate the latest design trends and thus effectively raise the value of your property as well. In order to help you achieve this in no time, we have singled out our top tips and tricks for getting the best resale value out of your remodelling project.

Invest in a new exterior

First things first, rejuvenating your exterior is one of the best ways to instantly beautify your home at a great resale price. Begin by enhancing the facade with tough composite decking which is available in a variety of different styles and finishes allowing you to produce a creative look. Don’t forget, you should also construct a spacious porch which you can decorate with greenery and illuminate with smart ambient lighting. This will provide you with a valuable home expansion and a relaxed outdoor seating area. Keep in mind, homeowners who build luxurious exteriors will be able to create an amazing resale value out of this investment and attract potential buyers more easily.

Home exterior

A refurbished kitchen with a personality

A small to mid-range kitchen remodel is a sure-fire way of raising your return on investment rates. However, buying brand new cabinets and countertops can set you back a lot. Instead, feel free to refurbish your entire kitchen with simple DIY tricks that will add more personality to it. Start by sanding down your cupboards and getting rid of chipped paint and broken handles. Afterwards, you can apply a base layer of linseed oil to preserve the natural glow of the wood and then build in robust aluminium knobs. When it comes to choosing a perfect colour scheme, be sure to try out a mixture of mint green for the wood and brass or bronze for the handles in order to establish a timeless look. Finally, make sure to go for light marble countertops to finish the combination off with an elegant feature.

Kitchen and dining room

Replace your windows

Another important step of your 2019 remodelling project would be to replace your regular windows with energy-efficient ones that can provide you with a return on investment factor of up to 78%. The most popular ones on the market today are made from durable PVC with built-in characteristics such as low-E glass and argon gas. These are responsible for reflecting the harmful UV rays and insulating the house. What’s even better, such great insulation offers you the possibility to be less dependent on conventional heating systems and your monthly energy bills will be lower. If you like the idea, be sure to complement the look with high-end plantation shutters which can be custom-made to fit any type of window design and enhance the quality of your home’s indoor and outdoor decor.

Modern living room

Manufactured stone veneer additions

Manufactured stone veneer has an estimated ROI factor of an astonishing 97% which makes it the most lucrative renovation idea yet. The reason for this is that this material is highly durable, adds instant curb appeal and represents an exceptional cost-effective alternative to natural stone. Apart from being used for the facade, it also displays considerable versatility indoors and works well for designing stylish statement walls, archways, fire pits or even stairwells. Lastly, aside from being aesthetically pleasing, masonry veneer can fortify the exterior retaining barriers by strengthening them against erosion.

Front door replacement

Last but not least, a great and affordable way to improve the security in your home and watch it gain more value is to switch out your current front door with a steel one. This metal is highly resistant against warping, bending or cracking due to moisture or excessive heat. Such doors do not only provide homeowners with extended safety, but are great for the environment as well since steel is one of the most recycled metals on the planet. You can also design it to fit your preferences with custom features such as paint, stained glass and textured-patterns.

Front door

As you can see, enhancing the value of your home by utilizing up-to-date design trends with high ROI rates can be a real walk in the park. Simply make sure to explore all your options and remember to always go for creative decor choices. Good luck on your remodelling project!

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Smooth Decorator is a website dedicated to our little sanctuaries from the hustle and bustle of the outside world – to our homes, sweet homes. We believe that the foundation of a quality life needs to be set right there, in the place where we first dream things up, and that only when we organized our homes can we hope to organize the rest of our everyday existence.

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