With the status of the economy taking it slow time in making a comeback, many homeowners still spend a significant amount of time dreaming about making functional and decorative changes to their houses. However, their budgets are typically small. In any event they can still increase the value of equity in their home while enjoying its enhancements through easy to do home improvement projects.
Small adjustments or fixes around the house typically are not seen as a home improvement project. However, spending a Saturday maintaining the home is an easy way to keep the house operating as designed. A small problem might be nothing more than a leaky faucet, and overgrown yard, or loose screw on the doorknob. Even replacing a broken receptacle outlet plate is a great way to improve the aesthetic qualities of the house.
Another surefire way to create an improvement in the home is to add storage space. Consider building brackets are shelving throughout the house, in the garage, or in a closet. Adding a basic shelf over a desk, in a cubby or even under the counter is an easy solution that can add much joy to living in the home.
A craftier home-improvement project is to change an existing faucet in the kitchen or bathroom sink. Changing out a faucet without the assistance of a plumber before it begins to leak is an easy way to just enhance the beauty of the room. Homeowners can select from a variety of kitchen or bathroom faucets of varying finishes, heights and accessories. Many top brand manufacturers of faucets offer a huge array of options including changeable knobs, and other decorative features.
Homeowners can also replace the hardware on their bathroom or kitchen cabinets. Even a standard cabinet can look customized with a change of a knob or drawer pull. Instead of spending thousands changing out the cabinets, consider just adjusting the hardware options. Spending a lazy afternoon selecting the best hardware to swap out the existing ones on the cabinets and drawers is a quick way to rejuvenate and renovate the kitchen or bathroom.
Changing the lighting in the room is an easy solution and a quick do-it-yourself home project. It is an easy adjustment to change out the home decor by replacing the ceiling light, a wall sconce, a chandelier, or even the trim work of a recessed lighting can.
Homeowners can transform the way the house looks by installing beautiful lighting fixtures throughout the entire home. They are available in a variety of styles including modern, contemporary, traditional, rustic, and many others.
Whenever performing a home improvement project around the house, consider doing the little things first. Making basic improvements in the landscaping outdoors, adding new touches including rugs, drapes or lighting fixtures is an easy solution that any homeowner can accomplish.
The small home improvements can help any homeowner keep their cash in the bank. Consider doing handyman jobs around the house to avoid the need to call a contractor.
Thursday, November 28, 2013
Friday, November 15, 2013
Decorating Tips for a Country Style Bathroom
Nothing beats the charm of country decor. If you want a country style bathroom, but aren't sure where to start, these tips should help you get your decorating projects and home improvement underway. With just a little bit of creativity and some elbow grease, you can have your own beautiful, country style bathroom in no time at all.
Consider Installing Bead Board
Nothing gives a room a country look faster than installing bead board. You can cover the walls from floor to ceiling with it, or cut it down to chair rail height. Either way, consider painting it white to enhance the country look.
As an alternative, you can also install actual planks of wood on the walls and ceiling. This is more labor-intensive than installing bead board, but can give a charming, rustic look. If you choose this option, look for wood that has a lot of character such as old barn wood. Leave it natural, or stain it with a soft shade of blue, green or gray.
Purchase a Clawfoot Bathtub
One of the hallmarks of a country style bathroom is a clawfoot bathtub. These tubs can be expensive, but in most cases the cost is well worth it. They are extremely comfortable for bathing, and add a ton of character and charm to a room. Not only that, but they are a classic design that will never go out of style.
Incorporate Wooden Furniture
Consider bringing wooden furniture into the room. For instance, a rough, unfinished wooden table under the bathroom window is the perfect place to put a couple of extra towels and a few country-style accessories. Better yet, converting an old wooden dresser into a vanity is a great way to add a one-of-a-kind decorating element to the space. Not only will it look great, but the extra storage space can be a real bonus.
Use Rustic Light Fixtures
Look for light fixtures that incorporate primitive elements such as rusty metal or traditional lantern shapes. Just be sure that whatever fixtures you choose provide ample lighting for the space.
Bring in Vintage Decorating Pieces
Try bringing in vintage or antique pieces such as an old wooden chair, an antique bucket or a vintage mirror. Browse local antique shops for unique pieces that you can incorporate into your bathroom design. Keep in mind that the pieces you choose will most likely be exposed to a lot of moisture. Most items should do fine, but you probably want to avoid any pieces that are overly-fragile or that can be easily damaged by water.
Stick With Neutral Colors
You don’t have to avoid color all together, but in general is a good idea to stick with a mostly neutral palette. If you do incorporate other colors, keep them soft and muted. For instance, instead of a bright green, opt for a subtle sage green instead.
Incorporating these simple tips into your bathroom design is the best way to design a country-style bathroom. Regardless of your budget, with a little bit of creativity you can create a rustic space that you are proud of.
Consider Installing Bead Board
Nothing gives a room a country look faster than installing bead board. You can cover the walls from floor to ceiling with it, or cut it down to chair rail height. Either way, consider painting it white to enhance the country look.
As an alternative, you can also install actual planks of wood on the walls and ceiling. This is more labor-intensive than installing bead board, but can give a charming, rustic look. If you choose this option, look for wood that has a lot of character such as old barn wood. Leave it natural, or stain it with a soft shade of blue, green or gray.
Purchase a Clawfoot Bathtub
One of the hallmarks of a country style bathroom is a clawfoot bathtub. These tubs can be expensive, but in most cases the cost is well worth it. They are extremely comfortable for bathing, and add a ton of character and charm to a room. Not only that, but they are a classic design that will never go out of style.
Incorporate Wooden Furniture
Consider bringing wooden furniture into the room. For instance, a rough, unfinished wooden table under the bathroom window is the perfect place to put a couple of extra towels and a few country-style accessories. Better yet, converting an old wooden dresser into a vanity is a great way to add a one-of-a-kind decorating element to the space. Not only will it look great, but the extra storage space can be a real bonus.
Use Rustic Light Fixtures
Look for light fixtures that incorporate primitive elements such as rusty metal or traditional lantern shapes. Just be sure that whatever fixtures you choose provide ample lighting for the space.
Bring in Vintage Decorating Pieces
Try bringing in vintage or antique pieces such as an old wooden chair, an antique bucket or a vintage mirror. Browse local antique shops for unique pieces that you can incorporate into your bathroom design. Keep in mind that the pieces you choose will most likely be exposed to a lot of moisture. Most items should do fine, but you probably want to avoid any pieces that are overly-fragile or that can be easily damaged by water.
Stick With Neutral Colors
You don’t have to avoid color all together, but in general is a good idea to stick with a mostly neutral palette. If you do incorporate other colors, keep them soft and muted. For instance, instead of a bright green, opt for a subtle sage green instead.
Incorporating these simple tips into your bathroom design is the best way to design a country-style bathroom. Regardless of your budget, with a little bit of creativity you can create a rustic space that you are proud of.
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Current Bathroom Design Trends
Despite their small size, bathrooms are one of the most essential rooms in the home. Given how many important functions they facilitate in everyday life, it is easy to see why they are so highly valued. Remodeling or redesigning your bathroom is a great way to maximize the functionality of the space while at the same time creating a relaxing oasis where you can escape from the world.
If you are planning on redecorating your bathroom, you may want to consider incorporating some of the latest design trends. These trends not only add to the overall look of the bathroom, but in many cases also help make the space more functional. Regardless of the size of your bathroom, the following trends should help you create a relaxing, spa-like space.
Double Sinks
Although double sinks are nothing new, they are still a hot trend in bathroom design. Having more than one sink makes it easy for couples to get ready for work at the same time. Double vanities are also ideal for families with more than one child. There is no need for the kids to fight over the sink. Instead, they can spread out so they each have room to do their own thing.
Quartz Countertops
For several years quartz countertops have been one of the top choices for bathrooms. Quartz is extremely durable and easy to clean, which makes it ideal for use in a bathroom setting. These countertops come in a wide range of styles, making it easy to find one that fits with your design aesthetic.
Towel Warmers
Once a luxury item reserved for high-end homes, towel warmers have become far more affordable, making them an ideal choice for homeowners in any income bracket. There is nothing quite as luxurious as stepping out of the shower and grabbing a warm towel to dry off with. They can also function as a makeshift clothes dryer in a pinch. Just hang a wet item of clothing over the towel warmer and it will be dry before you know it.
Skylights and Windows
Privacy is still a concern for bathrooms. However, many of today's homeowners are looking for innovative ways to allow natural light into the room. Strategically placed skylights and windows are one of the biggest design trends for bathrooms. If you are remodeling your space, consider looking for ways to incorporate natural light into your design.
Neutral Colors
For years, neutral colors have been a popular choice for bathrooms. The latest trend in color for bathrooms continues along the theme of neutrals. However, instead of tan and beige, colors are leaning more toward shades of gray.
Large Showers
Walk-in showers are a rising trend in bathroom design. These big, open spaces usually incorporate a bench, which gives the design a spa or sauna-like feeling.
If you are thinking of redesigning your bathroom, consider incorporating some of these trends. Not only are they popular now, but they should remain modern looking for years to come. Unlike green shag carpeting, natural surfaces, neutral colors and well-designed lighting will always be in style.
If you are planning on redecorating your bathroom, you may want to consider incorporating some of the latest design trends. These trends not only add to the overall look of the bathroom, but in many cases also help make the space more functional. Regardless of the size of your bathroom, the following trends should help you create a relaxing, spa-like space.
Double Sinks
Although double sinks are nothing new, they are still a hot trend in bathroom design. Having more than one sink makes it easy for couples to get ready for work at the same time. Double vanities are also ideal for families with more than one child. There is no need for the kids to fight over the sink. Instead, they can spread out so they each have room to do their own thing.
Quartz Countertops
For several years quartz countertops have been one of the top choices for bathrooms. Quartz is extremely durable and easy to clean, which makes it ideal for use in a bathroom setting. These countertops come in a wide range of styles, making it easy to find one that fits with your design aesthetic.
Towel Warmers
Once a luxury item reserved for high-end homes, towel warmers have become far more affordable, making them an ideal choice for homeowners in any income bracket. There is nothing quite as luxurious as stepping out of the shower and grabbing a warm towel to dry off with. They can also function as a makeshift clothes dryer in a pinch. Just hang a wet item of clothing over the towel warmer and it will be dry before you know it.
Skylights and Windows
Privacy is still a concern for bathrooms. However, many of today's homeowners are looking for innovative ways to allow natural light into the room. Strategically placed skylights and windows are one of the biggest design trends for bathrooms. If you are remodeling your space, consider looking for ways to incorporate natural light into your design.
Neutral Colors
For years, neutral colors have been a popular choice for bathrooms. The latest trend in color for bathrooms continues along the theme of neutrals. However, instead of tan and beige, colors are leaning more toward shades of gray.
Large Showers
Walk-in showers are a rising trend in bathroom design. These big, open spaces usually incorporate a bench, which gives the design a spa or sauna-like feeling.
If you are thinking of redesigning your bathroom, consider incorporating some of these trends. Not only are they popular now, but they should remain modern looking for years to come. Unlike green shag carpeting, natural surfaces, neutral colors and well-designed lighting will always be in style.
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