Kitchen Remodeling Decisions You’ll Never Regret

We see lots of kitchen trends, so we know it’s easy to get swept along with what’s in vogue, only to get bummed out by your faddish design choices a few years later.

But chances are you’re only going to remodel your current kitchen once. 

After all, a complete kitchen renovation has a national median cost of $60,000, according to the “2015 Remodeling Impact Report” from the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. 

With that much on the line, you want to make all the right moves. If you do, you could recover about 67% of your investment if you sell.

So we’re here to future-proof you from angst by naming the seven definitive kitchen features that will retain their beauty, marketability, and value — all while giving you lasting enjoyment.

#1: White is the Dominant Color
Bottom line: White is the most marketable color. You’ll always find it atop the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s annual survey of most popular kitchen colors. It simply doesn’t go out of style.

• Throughout history, it’s been associated with happiness, purity (think Snow White), and new
beginnings.
• It’s a bright color that reflects light and makes even small kitchens feel larger.
• It’s a neatnik’s dream — dirt has no place to hide.

Even better, it’s uber-tolerant of both your budget and taste: A standard color for any manufacturer, you’ll find white cabinets, tile, counters, faucets, sinks, and appliances at any price point.

And with a white backdrop, you can be as conservative or expressive as you want. After all, it’s about your enjoyment, not just dollars and cents. For example:

• Add your personal touch with colored glass knobs and pulls.
• Show off antique Fiesta ware on open shelves or in upper cabinets with glass fronts.
• Paint walls the color du jour — even off-white!

Heck, with a white palette, you can change your mind about paint color on a whim. Those all-white basics will make any hue you choose look fresh and contemporary.

#2: Hardwood for Flooring
It’s been our love for years. That’s especially true ever since hardwood flooring was mass-produced during the Industrial Revolution, making beautiful flooring readily available at a reasonable cost.

Today, more than half of home buyers who purchased a home without hardwood floors say they would have paid an extra $2,080 for them, according to the “2013 Home Features Survey” from the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. And among buyers of any age, upwards of 80% say hardwood floors are “somewhat” or “very important.”

“It’s the one feature men and women agree on,” says Debe Robinson, NKBA treasurer and owner of Kitchen Expressions Inc. in Sheffield, Ala., who’s also worked in the flooring industry.

Why? The love of wood is in our genes. Our nesting instincts know that hardwood has warmth, personality, and makes our homes cozy and inviting. That’s why this clever chameleon pairs well with any kitchen style.

More reasons why wood flooring is the goof-proof option:

• Perfect for open floor plans. It flows beautifully from the kitchen into adjoining rooms.
• It’s tough. Hardwoods such as oak, ash, and maple will shrug off your kitchen’s high-traffic punishment for years. Solid hardwood flooring can be refinished 10 to 12 times during it’s typical 100-year lifespan.
• It’s eco-friendly. Hardwood is considered a green building material when it’s certified by the Forest Stewardship Council and comes from sustainably managed forests.

#3: Shaker Style for Cabinets
Thank heaven for the Shakers. While they were busy reducing life to its essentials, they made cabinets with clean, simple lines that will forever be in style.

Shaker cabinets are an enduring legacy of American style and, like wood flooring, have the knack for looking good in any setting. Their simple frame-and-panel design helps reduce the amount of busyness in a kitchen, making it a soothing, friendly place to be.

“In a kitchen with a timeless look, you want the cabinets to be part of the backdrop,” says Alan Zielinski, a former president of the National Kitchen and Bath Association. “You don’t want to be overpowered. You’re looking for plain, simple, clean lines.”

Those plain, simple, clean lines are a perfect fit for transitional style — a beautiful combo of traditional and contemporary styles. In fact, the National Kitchen and Bath Association says that after creeping up on traditional for years, transitional is now the most popular kitchen style.

As our families grow more diverse, transitional style will only get more popular. It lets us personalize and blend cultural influences — Latin, Asian, Mideastern — into our homes; it’s the perfect balance of old and new, just like Shaker-style cabinets.

#4: Carrara Marble for Countertops
Carrara marble is a timeless classic that’s been used in homes for thousands of years. (Michelangelo’s “David” was carved from Carrara.) It’ll look as good in the next millennium as it does now.

Here’s why:

• Carrara’s lacy graining and subtle white colors look terrific in a white kitchen (or any kitchen, for that matter).
• It has a whiteness you won’t find in other natural stones.
• It’s readily available, making it less expensive than other high-end choices, such as quartz.
• It’ll last for generations.

If you Google it, you’ll find a lot of debate about it (and marble in general) because it stains easily. But if you want something truly timeless, Carrara is the answer. And with today’s sealants, the problem of staining is almost moot if you reseal once or twice a year.

Still not sold? Or don’t have the budget? Laminate countertops are relatively inexpensive and can be upgraded to stone when you do have the budget.

#5: Subway Tile for the Backsplash
Subway tile goes back to the early 1900s, when it was used to line New York’s first subway tunnels. Classic subway tiles are white, 3-inch-by-6-inch rectangles — a look that became popular in American kitchens and baths, and has stuck around ever since. Now it’s an iconic part of the American design vernacular, destined never to go out of style.

In the kitchen, ceramic tile excels as a backsplash, where it guards against moisture, is a snap to clean, lasts forever, and always looks classy.

Sure, a backsplash can be an opportunity for a blast of color and pattern, but neutrals will always be current and blend with any look. Plus, a subway tile backsplash and a marble countertop make a dashing couple that will stand the test of time.

To make it even more enduring, keep it achromatic and camouflage dirt with gray or beige grout.

#6: Ergonomic Design
Adaptability and universal design features mean easy living at any age. A recent survey on kitchens from the American Institute of Architects points to the growing popularity of smart ergonomic design, a sign that kitchen adaptability will stay in vogue.

Smart ergonomics simply mean convenience — for young or old, party people or homebodies — a key factor when remodeling a kitchen that will function well, retain its value, and always feel right.

No matter you or your buyer’s current or future needs, everyone wins with these approaches:

• Create different countertop heights. Standard height is 36 inches, but you can raise or lower sections of cabinets by altering the height of the base. Add color-match shim strips to the bases of countertops that don’t include sinks or appliances. You (or a new owner) can easily remove them or add to them to adjust the height.
• Swap a standard range for a wall oven and a cooktop. Ranges have fixed heights. There’s no getting around the fact you have to bend to access the oven. But a wall oven conveniently installs about waist-high.
• Add pull-out shelves to base cabinets. Lower cabinets with doors mean having to twist like a pretzel to see what’s inside. Pull-out shelves put everything at your fingertips.
• Keep wide clearances. Kitchens attract people, and with open floor plans, you’re apt to have folks hunting for snacks, helping you cook, or just hanging out while you prep meals. Keep traffic flowing with a minimum of 42 inches between counters and islands.

Today’s families store about 47% of their kitchen stuff outside the kitchen — in laundry rooms, basements, even sheds — according to data released at the 2013 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show.

We blame it on the fact that kitchens have evolved from a tucked-away place at the back of the house into a multiple-chef, multi-tasking space that’s the hub of family life. Plus, our love of open kitchens and stocking up at warehouse stores means less wall space and more stuff, kitchen design expert Robinson says.

The solution: smart storage. Cabinet manufacturers have you covered with nearly unlimited storage options — shelves and compartments that unfold, turn, extend, and slide.

But it’s not just about having storage, it’s about designing it smartly. Follow these guidelines to make your storage timeless:

Create a primary storage zone. This is an area 30 to 60 inches high and within two feet on either side of your body. Store your most-used items here — your favorite work knives, measuring cups, salt and pepper for cooking, your trusty pots and pans. With one easy motion, you can grab what you use all the time.

Plan for the unknown. A truly timeless kitchen anticipates and adapts to future needs, such as:

• A space that can easily convert to an office, wine storage, or a closet.
• Lower cabinet spaces that can accommodate a wine cooler, under-counter refrigerator, a second dishwasher, or new must-have kitchen appliances on the horizon. (Remember when microwaves didn’t exist?)
• An open space that fits a freestanding desk or favorite antique that can personalize the kitchen — no matter who owns the home.

Steer Clear: 7 Living Room Design Looks That Buyers Hate

Home decor is all about reflecting your own personal style. It’s an opportunity to use your home as a blank canvas and paint a masterpiece that is decidedly you. 

And that style is never more apparent than in your living room—the spot where your guests gather and your personality is most on display.

We’ll never tell you to betray your decor desires in this room (or the rest of your home). But if you’ve gone nuts painting your living room in wild colors or spent thousands laying down Moroccan tile, bear in mind how potential buyers might perceive your choices.

Buyers need to picture themselves living and loving that space: throwing parties, entertaining guests, enjoying a lazy Saturday with a book. If your favorite living room design looks are dated or divisive, buyers might give your home a pass. 

So ditch these seven polarizing decor choices while you still can—before they sink your chance of a sale.

1. TV looming over the fireplace

No matter which side you fall on in the great TV-over-the-fireplace debate, none of that matters when it comes time to sell. Find somewhere else for your flat-screen TV—at least temporarily.

“Today’s buyers are interested in beautiful, serene rooms with seating revolved around a focal point of beauty,” says Chicago interior designer and stager Kara O’Connor. A personality-free black box is neither serene nor beautiful.

Heads up: If you’ve already mounted your television on a wall or over the fireplace, you may have to remove the evidence after you take it down. No buyer wants to see unpatched holes in your walls.

2. Dead things

Obviously you’re not leaving dead mice lying around your living room (we hope!). Perhaps you should get rid of the enormous steer head hanging over your fireplace, too.

“We totally get it. Cowhides and taxidermy are super kitschy and trendy,” says Justin M. Riordan, a Portland designer with Spade and Archer Design Agency. “The combination of creepy and beautiful is all the rage. Unfortunately, for many, the creepy is far more powerful than the beautiful.”

Real or not, you don’t have to say goodbye to your animal skulls. Just tuck them away until the home is sold. Far away.

3. Blond wood

Don’t stain your hardwood just because you’re listing your home, but if you’re thinking about doing it anyway, O’Connor has some advice: Go dark.

“Dark, wide-plank floors are ‘in,’ and blond wood is ‘out,'” she says. “If the floors are dated, I encourage refinishing. The impact is huge.”

Alongside new baseboards and neutral paint, deep chocolate floors will give your home the modern edge that could attract on-the-fence buyers.

4. Saturated walls

Yes, your deep teal walls look rad alongside your dark wood credenza and velvet chaise. But all potential buyers see are dollar signs.

“More likely than not, your home’s next owner has some very distinct taste in furniture, which they recently spent quite a bit of money on,” Riordan says. “They are not going to buy new furniture to match your saturated wall colors.”

Many buyers do repaint before moving in, but painting over saturated tones requires more coats, more time, and, naturally, more money. And some buyers don’t want to deal with any of that.

To get the highest selling price—and the most interested buyers—paint the entire place in simple neutrals.

5. Outdated furniture

Buyers bring their own furniture. But picturing their gorgeous modern furniture in your space can be daunting if everything you own is outdated and overwhelming.

“If the furniture distracts the buyer from the square footage, a focal point, or hardwood floors, then it should be carefully edited out,” says Jill Hosking-Cartland, an interior designer in Windham, NH.

Not only might they struggle to see themselves in your place, they might also worry about the quality of your home.

“Old furniture can leave a buyer with the impression that there is a lack of attention to routine maintenance and updating,” Hosking-Cartland says.

Work with your Realtor® to stage your property using updated, on-trend furniture.

6. Narrow baseboards

New baseboards and crown molding can take a room from blah to bangin’ with an afternoon’s worth of work. But make sure the sizes and designs you choose look modern.

“Crisp, white baseboards that are a minimum of 5 inches high are preferable to the dated, 2- or 3-inch baseboards from the ’90s and early 2000s,” O’Connor says.

Teeny-tiny baseboards might not be a deal breaker, but they can make a room feel kind of off. Beware of going too big—though it is possible to overwhelm a room with your molding. Find the right size trim for your space before you embark on that weekend project.

7. Faux finishes

You might hate ordinary paint, but funking up your living space with a faux finish can be a sticking point. Even if your DIY job looks amazing, buyers see only another thing they need to change. Paint over your fake Venetian plaster, reclaimed wood, or “textured” walls before the first showing.

“Asking a buyer to adopt your specific design style is risky,” Hosking-Cartland says. “Most buyers see these polarizing design elements as work they will have to do and spend money on to make the home a reflection of their own personal style.”

Bamboo It Up!

The 9 Hottest Interior Design and Decor Trends You'll See in 2018

When it comes to home design and decor, we'll be the first to tell you to stick with what you love, no matter what the pros say. But if you can't escape that sinking feeling each time you walk through your front door that your decor is looking a little tired, well, don't despair. We've got you covered! We've already talked about the design trends you should ditch in the coming year. Now let's take a look at some of the hot new designs you might want to use for 2018 to give your home a fresh lease on life.

From splashy color palettes to bright yellow sofas and mixed metal everything, our stable of designers and tastemakers have given us the ultimate insiders' scoop on what'll be hot in 2018. And trust us: It'll be a gorgeous year. Here's what to watch:

1. Bold colors
Designers haven't yet had their fill of spaces decked out in deep, bold shades; this decor trend is appearing on our hot list for the second year in a row.

“As much as I love an all-white interior, rich jewel tones are making their way onto our walls and moldings in a big way—think ‘English library,’ but with peacock teal, black, or rich burnt orange colors,” says Oregon-based interior designer Arlene Lord.

The proof is in the paint: Sherwin-Williams' 2018 Color of the Year (Oceanside SW 6496) is an intense shade of blue-green, while Pantone recently announced the rich and regal Ultra Violet will reign supreme in the coming year.

Lord recommends pairing these jewel tones with bold, dustier shades to create a lush, layered look. (We like PPG’s Black Flame, an indigo-hued black that’s great for modern interiors; Glidden’s Deep Onyx, a classic no-fuss shade; and Olympic’s Black Magic.)

"Dipping a room in a dramatic shade like midnight navy, eggplant, or charcoal is a fun way to embrace a deep, rich color, and the result is deliciously inviting,” says Elissa Morgante, co-principal of Morgante Wilson Architects in Illinois.

Ready to really commit? Go all-in on this trend with dark or black trim.

“Outlining the room or windows in dark trim helps punctuate and call attention to unique features,” she says.

2. Mixed metallic
A few years back, mixing metals was a total no-no. But experts now agree that today’s homeowners want more than simple one or two copper or brass fixtures—they like seeing the stuff throughout a room or house.

“Buyers really love to see modern, eclectic choices such as a hammered copper light fixture above the kitchen island paired with sleek chrome faucets and cabinet hardware,” says Ken Fixler of Barnett Homes in Chicago.

To warm up the industrial feel of some metals, pair them with a natural stone like marble or limestone, and look for unexpected finishes like matte black, satin brass, black nickel, and unlacquered brass. Amp up the visual interest another notch by layering your metals across a variety of locations, from faucets to hardware to lighting and furniture.

3. Gen Z yellow
As usual, Beyoncé was way ahead of the curve on this one, smashing car windows and security cameras in an unforgettable yellow Cavalli dress in her epic video for "Lemonade." And as designers, fashionistas, and millennials will all tell you, the hue that's being dubbed "Gen Z yellow" is the one to watch.

Karen Wolf, of Karen B Wolf Interiors, calls it "positive, confident, vibrant, and enthusiastic."

"We have not seen this color emerge for quite some time," Wolf adds. "It feels fresh, happy, and young."

Designer Sarah Hullinger agrees, predicting the color will continue to be huge well into 2018.

“It’ll certainly make an impression, whether a bright ‘minion’ color or a burnt shade resembling curry or turmeric,” she says.

If you can't quite warm up to the idea of, say, a bright yellow sectional, test the waters with an accent chair or painted side table.

4. Quartz
In the kitchen, sleek quartz is taking the place of the ubiquitous granite and hard-to-clean marble.

“Quartz products are appealing to the ease of living that we all crave, and the surfaces are much more modern, clean, and versatile,” Lord says.

5. Light, textured wood floors
“Red-toned woods are fading in popularity, along with tropical exotic species” like Brazilian cherry or walnut, says Armstrong Flooring design manager Sara Babinski.

Instead, flooring trends are moving toward lighter color palettes in domestic American woods such as maple, pine, or hickory, she says.

Why? Light-hued woods—including natural tones and blond and whitewashed woods—brighten interior spaces and hide imperfections more easily, making them a great choice for families and households with pets. For extra credit, choose a distressed or wire-brushed wood, which offers vintage appeal with a less aggressive look than a scraped floor, and choose 5-inch-wide planks, which create a sense of openness and interior space.

If you decide to stick with dark flooring, designers recommend that you pair it with light walls and white trim for contrast.

6. Natural materials
“In interior design we're seeing a strong push toward eco-consciousness—looking toward items that are made of sustainable materials and have a natural feel to them,” says Ana Zuravliova, an interior designer at Roman Blinds Direct. “People care about the production, the history, and the story of their furniture more than they ever have before.”

While the sustainability element is a plus, the visual airiness of the materials is indicative of a move toward more minimalist interiors, says designer Erin Powell, virtual staging coordinator at 3-D rendering company roOmy.

"The less-is-more approach will continue—[think] lacy hammocks and daybeds and wicker and rattan furniture with a more modern edge," she says.

7. Concrete in unexpected places
Tired of basic granite in your kitchen and bath? Ditch it in favor of cool concrete—and then take your design up a notch by extending the material elsewhere in your house.

“From fireplaces to bath tubs, concrete is no longer the countertop alternative,” says designer Ana Cummings. “I’m seeing entire walls in concrete panels that look fantastic juxtaposed next to antiques or contemporary furnishings.”

8. Black fixtures Black fixtures will take the place of brass as the new hot home hardware, predicts Ryan Brown of Brown Design Group in Southern California. The first reason is easy: Black pretty much goes with everything. The second? Black fixtures—especially in matte finishes—are much easier to clean (and don't need to be cleaned as often) than lighter, polished metals.

“They look great in modern applications as well as transitional homes,” Brown says. “And the best part is, no water spots to clean off.”

9. Larger tiles
For years, white subway tile has been the go-to choice in many a modern (or renovated) bathroom and kitchen. But designer Karen Asprea of Whitehall Interiors notes a recent shift toward larger-format tile (and even slab-size sheets of porcelain).

"This shift is not only aesthetic but one of function, as larger tile has less grout and is both easier to install and maintain," Asprea says.

But if you're not on board with big, don't fret—designers agree the subway tile trend has life left in it.

“Clients want a really clean look for their homes and that doesn’t appear to be a trend that’s going away,” says Katie Jaydan, senior designer with White Crane Construction, a residential remodeling company in Minneapolis.

To mix things up a little and add visual interest, consider swapping out tired old cabinetry hardware with mixed metals (oh, hi, Tip No. 2) for a look that's oh-so-2018. (In a good way.)

How to Pick Paint Colors

Paint has remodeling power when you use it to emphasize a room’s best features or play down the flaws. 

Every home suffers a few negatives, but not every solution requires pricey structural changes. 

Paint is an often-overlooked, low-cost remodeler’s remedy for common complaints with interiors, offering the chameleon-like ability to lighten, warm, enlarge, erase, or attract attention.

“Paint is a powerful tool that can enhance the architectural character and intent of space,” says Minneapolis architect Petra Schwartze of TEA2 Architects. “As you choose your paint, think about what the experience in the room should be.”

More Schwartze advice:

• Always sample paint colors on a few walls. Don’t be shy about painting a few large swaths on walls and trim to consider the effect of natural and artificial lighting. Add samples to opposite sides of a room to judge the paint color from different angles.
• Check the space with the samples in place and watch how the paint color changes at different times of the day.
• Evaluate your reaction to the proposed colors: Does the space feel cozy or is the openness enhanced?

How to Enlarge Space with Color

Painting walls white, cream, pastels, or cool colors (tinged with blue or green) creates the illusion of more space by reflecting light. Paint trim similar to walls (or use white on trim) to ensure a seamless appearance that visually expands space.

In addition, using white or light colors on walls lifts the ceiling; darker shades can have a similar effect if you select a high-gloss paint sheen, which reflects light and enhances space.

Use a monochromatic scheme to amplify the dimensions of a room. Select furnishings in one color and paint walls and trim to match. Lack of contrast makes a room seem more spacious.

Make walls appear taller by extending wall color onto the ceiling. Create a 6- to 12-inch-wide border of wall color on the entire ceiling perimeter, or wherever walls meet the ceiling.

Vertical and horizontal stripes of alternating color can make a room grand. Although vertical stripes enhance room height by drawing the eye upward, horizontal stripes lure your gaze around the perimeter, making walls seem further away. Use similar light colors for low-contrast stripes, and your room will look even larger.

Creating Intimacy

When a space feels cavernous, draw walls inward and make it cozy with warm colors (red-tinged) because darker hues absorb light. Similarly, a dark or warm color overhead (in a flat finish) helps make rooms with high or vaulted ceilings less voluminous.

Give Peace a Chance

The right paint choice can lend tranquility to a bathroom, master suite, or other quiet, personal space. A palette of soft, understated color or muted tones help you instill a calming atmosphere. Some good choices include pale lavenders, light grays or greens, and wispy blues.

Define Your Assets

Call out notable features in a room with paint. Dress crown moldings and other trims in white to make them pop against walls with color. Make a fireplace or other feature a focal point by painting it a color that contrasts with walls.

“Using a higher sheen of paint on woodwork, such as baseboards and door or window casings,” says Schwartze, “creates a crisp edge and clear transition from the wall to the trim.”

Hide Flaws

Not everything should stand out in a space. Using a low-contrast palette is a good way to hide unappealing elements or flaws. Conduit, radiators, and other components painted the same color as the wall will seem to disappear.

Selecting low-sheen or flat paint colors also helps hide flaws. Unless walls are smooth, avoid using high-gloss paint because it reflects light and calls attention to an uneven surface.

What’s the Cost?

As a DIY job, painting a 12-foot-by-12-foot space costs about $150, including paint, primer, brushes, drop cloths, and other painting tools and supplies. A professionally painted room using high-quality, brand-name paint costs $200 to $400.

Avoid These Bedroom Designs

Interior Design Tips

Interior decoration has never been more popular. Everyone wants the sort of home seen in glossy magazines; yet the real trick of decorating lies in making sure you have the right wallpaper, fabric and all the extra ingredients including lamps, pictures, lighting and flowers. Here I would like to take you through some of my key elements when it comes to decorating.


Where to Begin

Look at the basic shell of a room and consider all its potential. You have to train the eye, so that no matter how unpromising the existing decor is, you can look around and imagine everything stripped away, with only the skeleton remaining.

Focal Points

Each room needs a centerpiece of some description. This focal point is important because it sets the tone for the rest of the decorating scheme and ties the total look together. It is also useful because it will draw the eye away from less pleasing aspects of the room.

Finishing Touches

Not all rooms require a complete overhaul. Many of them can be given a simple lift by editing some things out, re-positioning others and introducing a few new buys. It is amazing how different a room can look with a new rug, a different set of cushion covers or a change of lampshades. Accessories and flowers also help newly decorated rooms become truly finished.

Lighting

Never underestimate the importance of light – both natural and artificial – in a room. Light is one of those life-enhancing ingredients that are always worth spending time and money on to get just right.(Image of Arthur Lamp Table and Hastings chair upholstered in the Montacute Fabric)

Using Pattern & Color

When using color don’t fall into the trap of worrying over what goes with what. In truth you can mix any color with any other; what really matters is the intensity of the colors you choose. Color fashions come and go which is why I have evolved collections over the years that are guaranteed to complement each other.

Interior Design Tips to Help Sell Your Home

While it might be a seller’s market, an interior designer’s views on how you can make your home more appealing to buyers can be invaluable. Extra touches can make a world of difference to attract the eye of an interested buyer, according to Associate Designer Anne Liu from GEORGE Interior Design. Here are her tips on how you can give your house a fresh look without breaking the bank.

Space Plan

Liu says one of the most inexpensive ways to make your house look more appealing is to simply play around with your existing furniture and décor in order to figure out the optimal space plan; this will show off your house in the best light. 

“Sometimes it is just a matter of moving a sofa to an adjacent wall or re-arranging your wall art,” said Liu. “When in doubt, just remember that continuous lines and a simplified color scheme tend to make a space flow harmoniously and feel bigger. Getting rid of any clutter and unnecessary elements and allowing a buyer to really see the space is always a good idea in our book. Less is more!”

Paint

To capitalize on one of the most cost-effective ways to make your house look more refined, Liu suggests adding a fresh coat of paint.

The designer added, “Overall, stick with a lighter, neutral color to appeal to more buyers and then designate ‘feature’ walls that you can accent with a bit more color. Whenever possible, try to get rid of popcorn ceilings and repaint because the space will look cleaner and more modern.”

Add Trim/Crown Molding and Update Baseboards

Liu commented, “Updating the baseboards could give your space a much more tailored and current look without blowing the bank. If it is suitable to the architecture, adding crown molding could further enhance your space. Opt for clean, simple, and elegant trims for a timeless look.”

Flooring

Another way to instantly update a home is to replace old carpeting. Liu shared the following tip: “Gravitate towards carpeting material in a medium-neutral tone, woven with more than one color (or a fleck of color). This guarantees a good look that will also last. Also, updating a carpeted floor with hardwood flooring could be a big draw to buyers. It consistently adds warmth and character and may help your home have wider appeal.”

Kitchen

Liu noted that kitchens are undoubtedly a big focal point in a home. So what are your best options for making your kitchen the most appealing to a buyer? Liu posited, “The most critical things to most home buyers are stainless steel appliances and ‘granite’ or other non-porous solid surfaced countertop material. I use the term granite in quotations because most buyers want the properties of granite, but this actual stone material has fallen out of favor in recent years. Quartzite is the stone surface material being requested the most by clients and we're using a lot of Caesarstone, Silestone, and other brands of quartz as they install very nicely and the colors are very consistent.

Liu added, “Painting cabinetry could really clean up your kitchen but it comes at some expense. A complete kitchen remodel might fetch you a higher price for your home but undeniably a lot of time, energy, and money will have to be spent planning and executing the overhaul. If appliances, countertops, or a complete remodel are out of the question, then simply updating the cabinet hardware and sink fixtures could give the kitchen a fresher look.”

Bathroom

The designer says a beautiful bathroom can be a big draw. She added, “Like the kitchen, a fresh coat of paint on the cabinetry and/or a new countertop and new fixtures could freshen up the feel significantly. In powder rooms or smaller bathrooms, use ‘feature’ wallpaper or a more exciting paint color since the scale is not overwhelming.”

5 Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Trends That Will Last

To help you get ahead of and sort out the kitchen and bathroom trends — pity the last fool to install an avocado appliance in the 1970s — HouseLogic.com went to this month's trend central, the International Builder's Show. Our takeaway: For gosh sake, enjoy your home; remodel so that you love where you live.

Still, with a couple of exceptions, these five kitchen and bath trends offer lasting value:

1. Kitchen cleanliness.

By clean, we're talking design, not germs. Kitchens are going clean, contemporary, and horizontal (open shelves, long and horizontal pulls, thick countertops). Even in a classic kitchen, go with simple, flat cabinets rather than highly carved cabinet details, says designer MaryJo Camp of Design Camp, Denver, N.C.  

Tip: This is a trend to get on board with. A simple, tidy, fresh appearance will have broad appeal if you decide to sell.

2. Color is out.

This year, colors are cycling out, Camp says, except for black and white used together. 

Tip: Practically speaking, black and white are hard to keep looking good. Black kitchens show every scratch and white cabinets show every speck of dirt.

Regardless, color is fickle; choose what's best for your space.

 

3. Dark wood is where it's at.

If you've had white cabinets, you know they show every speck of dirt, which can drive you crazy unless you have a cleaning fetish. Combine those white cabinets with another up-and-coming trend: dark wood. Or if your budget can handle the hit, go with specialty woods like mahogany or zebra wood that can make an island look like a piece of furniture.

Tip: Alternatively, you could invest your money in more kitchen storage and functionality than trendy decorative elements that might not stand the test of time.

4. Appliances that blend in.

The more open our kitchens get, the more we want them to look like the rest of the house. That's fueling a trend away from the big pro range and ginormous stainless-steel refrigerator and toward concealed, high-performance refrigerators and dishwashers. Induction cooktops, which use less electricity than electric cooktops, are growing in popularity, Camp said.

Tip: When you buy appliances, look for the Energy Star label or go even deeper on energy performance ratings with Consortium of Energy Efficiency. 

5. Ageless design gets easy.

What the Baby Boom wants, the Baby Boom gets. And Baby Boomers want to live in their homes forever. That's led manufacturers to create DIY remodeling products with built-in universal design features — like toilet paper roll holders strong enough to hold your weight as you arise from the throne.

If you wanted a no-threshold shower five years ago, you had to have it fabricated as a custom piece, said Mary Jo Peterson, a Brookfield, Conn., designer. Today, companies sell no-threshold shower kits with trench-style drains covered with grills so you can roll yourself right in.

5 Basic ideas of Modern Home Decor

Simplicity. If you were looking for a word that described what modern home decor was then that would be; it is simplicity. Of course, simple doesn’t mean boring and modern decor with its clean lines, neutral color palette and geometric shapes is anything but boring. Instead, modern home decor can be warm, inviting and completely stylish in just about any home. But how do you achieve modern home decor? Obviously, it isn’t as simple as walking into a store and choosing items that have clean lines. There takes a bit more to that and there are several basic ideas that should be incorporated into a modern decor.

The first idea is to keep it simple. Remember that word that best describes modern design and make sure that you incorporate it into your space. There is no need for the room to simply be four walls and a chair for sitting, we aren’t going to that extreme, but you will want to keep things as uncluttered as it possible. Studies have shown that clutter can lead to stress in your life so keeping your decor simple will help alleviate some of the stresses that you feel.

The second idea of modern home decor is function. Not only should your rooms be simple with those clean lines and minimal artwork and accessories, but it should also be functional. This varies greatly from room to room but when you go into a room, it should be easy to access and use various items in it. So, for instance, a kitchen that is designed with modern decor in mind should have ample workroom and everything should be easy to access.

Technology is the third idea for a modern decor in your home. It is actually a lot more than simply stating “technology” and any electronics that are in your home should work with the space. It is often recommended that all electronics be streamlined, so flat panel televisions, built in DVD players, small flat screen televisions in the kitchen, and computers tied in to a room rather than being a lump in it, are important to keep those lines clean.Open spaces. If you are going with a modern decor, then you will want to utilize our fourth idea by having lots of open space in your home. This may not be possible in some homes that offer closed rooms instead of an open concept but you can create the appearance of open spaces by using color, fabrics and furniture. You can also keep windows coverings that are light in color and airy in feel to create an open feel in to the room, even if it isn’t.

The last idea for creating a modern decor in your home is to add a little bit of character to the space. It can be amazing how one splash of color on an otherwise neutral palette can create such an alarming effect to the room. Don’t hesitate to explore your options with color and make the space one that you will enjoy sharing with every.

Creating a modern decor doesn’t have to be difficult and there is a lot of room to play around with your spaces. All you really need to remember are these five simple rules and before you know it, you will have a modern decor that shines.

Decorating for the senses

When starting a new decorating project, the big decisions are mostly about how the results will look. And the visuals of a room or house are important. But another big part of how a space feels to us is how we perceive it with our other senses. Think of how a luxuriously soft throw tossed across a worn leather chair makes a reading spot seem extra appealing or how the background scent of eucalyptus makes a spa seem clean and calming. Keeping all the senses in mind when making decorating choices will create spaces that feel more inviting and are a pleasure to inhabit. Here are some ideas:

Taste
Decorating for the sense of taste is all about implication—creating a space where food is enjoyed and celebrated. Make sure your house facilitates easy, communal eating by assessing your dining spaces. Is your table large enough for extra guests and durable enough to handle inevitable food and drink spills? Do sitting areas have handy spots for people to set drinks upon? Do you have room for an outdoor dining space? Other ideas: create a window sill garden with herbs, tiny hot peppers or tomatoes or a lettuce mix for cutting fresh mesclun. Plant a fruit tree that's visible from the kitchen or living room window. Set a warm pot of fragrant herbal tea on a guest's night table at bedtime. And don't forget the time-tested standby—a bowl full of seasonal fresh fruit.

Smell
When appealing to the sense of smell, subtlety is key. Try incorporating the outdoors by using the fresh scents of nature. Hang a eucalyptus cutting on a shower head to release a fresh, clean scent with every steamy shower. Plant a fragrant bush like honeysuckle, rose, or gardenia under a bedroom window to wake up the scent of flowers wafting in. Put a lavender plant in a bedroom or bathroom. Plant a rosemary shrub by the front door—whenever someone brushes by it, it will release its piney scent. Go seasonal with outdoor scents, bringing pine boughs in during December or fresh flowers in spring. Cedar blocks or shelves in a closet smell pleasantly old-fashioned and keep moths away too. Toss scented pine cones into the fire on wintry nights. Or just open a window and let a fresh breeze drift in.

Sight
Whether your taste is classic, mid-century modern or eclectic, there are certain visual rules that apply for all styles: Create a focal point in each space. Use harmonious colors for calm and high contrast for excitement. Group like things together and display objects in odd numbers. Allow for plenty of clear spaces on table tops and other surfaces for the eye to rest. Use a variety of light sources, including natural lighting and task lighting, and incorporate candlelight and light from a fireplace. For a cost-free makeover, walk through the room looking at everything as though seeing it for the first time. Purge art and objects that no longer suit you and rearrange furniture to engage with the space in a fresh way.

Touch
Engage the sense of touch with contrasts. Contrast crisp sheets with a soft warm comforter and big puffy pillows. Set off the smooth tiles of a bathroom with oversized fluffy towel or drape a luxe silky throw over a modernist chair. Add things that can be touched and look fun to touch, like a worn handmade wooden table, a curvy piece of sculpture, or a nubby throw pillow. Think about what flooring would feel best under your feet—the cool minimalist feel of tile or polished cement or the cushy warmth of carpet with thick padding underneath? When putting in new fixtures like door knobs, faucet handles and light switches, consider their feel. Do they move smoothly? Do they have a nice weight to them and feel good in your hand? Consider investing in luxurious items like heated towel racks, a premium showerhead, heated floors, or a quiet ceiling fan to bring in a cool breeze.

Sound
Appealing to the sense of sound is not only about emphasizing pleasant sounds but de-emphasizing or eliminating unpleasant sounds. The most obvious way to bring sound into a space is with music, but other ways include adding water feature, bamboo wind chimes or even just opening a window to bring in the sounds of the outdoors. Run a fan or white noise machine at night to create a peaceful sleeping space and install double-paned windows to mask traffic noises. Soften the sound of large open rooms with textiles and cork flooring. And don't forget ambient noise: oil squeaky doors, fix rattling appliances, knocking pipes, and creaky stairs.

Interior Design Tips

Interior decoration has never been more popular. Everyone wants the sort of home seen in glossy magazines; yet the real trick of decorating lies in making sure you have the right wallpaper, fabric and all the extra ingredients including lamps, pictures, lighting and flowers. Here I would like to take you through some of my key elements when it comes to decorating.




Where to Begin

Look at the basic shell of a room and consider all its potential. You have to train the eye, so that no matter how unpromising the existing decor is, you can look around and imagine everything stripped away, with only the skeleton remaining.

Focal Points

Each room needs a centrepiece of some description. This focal point is important because it sets the tone for the rest of the decorating scheme and ties the total look together. It is also useful because it will draw the eye away from less pleasing aspects of the room.

Finishing Touches

Not all rooms require a complete overhaul. Many of them can be given a simple lift by editing some things out, repositioning others and introducing a few new buys. It is amazing how different a room can look with a new rug, a different set of cushion covers or a change of lampshades. Accessories and flowers also help newly decorated rooms become truly finished.

 

 

 Lighting

Never underestimate the importance of light – both natural and artificial – in a room. Light is one of those life-enhancing ingredients that are always worth spending time and money on to get just right.(Image of Arthur Lamp Table and Hastings chair upholstered in the Montacute Fabric)

Using Pattern & Colour

When using colour don’t fall into the trap of worrying over what goes with what. In truth you can mix any colour with any other; what really matters is the intensity of the colours you choose. Colour fashions come and go which is why I have evolved collections over the years that are guaranteed to complement each other.