Home is more than four walls and roof. Home is a door opening to you, your family, your pets, your lifestyle, your neighborhood, your community, your city. It’s all encompassing on so many levels.
The Return of Velvet
The look, the feelt, the velvet! Create drama and luxury with velvet decor…
I have a thing for velvet. I find it to be a fabric of luxe and lush finishing and it’s popular again much to my pleasure. I like how velvet can create drama within a room. For instance, I just bought velvet curtains from Amazon and wowsa, what a difference it made in my otherwise plain living room. I think sometimes people take it for granted because they see it as a heavy fabric, but velvets come in all weights and shapes. I found these luscious finds that you could consider decorating with to bring any room to stun.
The Velvet Couch
You know the one that makes any Oscar Wilde prose delicious. I love the comfort of a velvet sectional, so plush and tranquil.
The Velvet Tuft Headboard
Bring luxury to your bedroom with gorgeous velvet headboards.
Velvet Decorative Pillows
These come in different shapes and sizes and create beautiful contrast amongst your furniture.
Velvet Vintage
You can never go wrong with a signature piece in velvet. Create drama with a velvet chaise in the bedroom or a antique velvet sofa for spilling the tea in the sitting room.
Velvet Dining Chairs
Bon Appetious! Dine in elegance with adding a little velvet to your dining area.
Velvet Drapes
What theatrics is this! Velvet curtains create gorgeous texture in any room. Get hideaway rods for a real dramatic effect.
Making Room
Amanda Scudder is the Owner and a Certified Professional Organizer in Richmond, VA.
It was a very sunny morning when I met up with Amanda Scudder, Owner and Certified Professional Organizer of Sprucely, Home and Lifestyle Solutions. This one woman show drives this passion project to helping those organize their homes so they can have space for themselves and others, inside and out.
As Fat Rabbit morsels filled space in our bellies, I took some time to discover that organizing goes beyond purging one’s closet, but can become a healthy and liberating habit. I don’t know about you, but I cannot work in a cluttered space for too long. I also cannot deal with the overwhelming sensation of sentimental disposal. I tend to want to keep everything from wine corks to scribble filled napkins. It is the complete opposite of a close friend whose monthly firepit hang ends in the remnants of old love poems and greeting cards.
Amanda began her career with a Masters in Social Work and was all too familiar with implementing effective systems as part of her work. She is also a very kind and gentle person. So while she did her stint in Social Work, including working for United Way, she felt like something was unfulfilled in her. The Universe, my friends, is a powerful ally. It wasn’t until she randomly went to a retreat and met someone needing assistance with organizing her home, that the switch flipped. She had found the missing piece. Sprucely was born out of that passion after doing her time learning and getting certified at the Institute of Challenging Disorganization®.
Doing the unstuck is hard. Where do you start? How do start? Why do you need it? I know when I am doing a thorough clean and organizing things in my home, the energy shifts. I’m able to be more productive, my mood is lifted—of course til I mess it all up again! Many people have a hard time—putting things away, making space for what’s important, or parting with things that have meaningful significance. Amanda is able to facilitate and support those who are ready to take that leap, but she does so without creating resistance. She allows her clients space to be ready for such a task, but also gives them motivations to ponder.
Amanda is also quite certified in not only being a professional organizer, but is also one if not the only local Organizer that is a practicing CPO-CD (Certified Professional Organizer in Chronic Disorganization®). This required her to evaluate case studies, medical histories, and work with a mentor. She has also completed intensive studies in helping those with such disorders as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Hoarding Disorder, PTSD, TBI and those with individuals suffering from OCD. Her interest lies in the “why” rather than the “what”. A lot of her job is helping those maintain a healthy routine of ‘putting things back where they belong’.
As Realtors®, we help our clients facilitate moving in and moving out of houses, Amanda helps them in both those transitions giving them a real brand new start. She helps clients get rid of the clutter before a move and shows them how to create efficient and good organizational habits to begin their new homes. But it is what Amanda does with clients who are in a life transition that I find dear. She helps clients find a meaningful and resourceful place for those items they part with so that they are beneficial to someone else in need. For example, someone who adheres to lots of books that they don’t necessarily need, could contribute to a library or bookshare. She shows others that the significance in that item could be meaningful to someone else, therefore releasing them, but never pushes them.
I have a box in my home that I will never get rid of. My ‘history’ if you will, can be found easily and within reach, but I tend to have lots of clutter around me. I have lots of clutter in my life as well. I think about how it makes me feel to transform that clutter into an inviting space for me to create and be tranquil in, and it is a desire of mine. Both Amanda and I agree that there is not set “way” to organize—every individual is different with various challenges. Some people need auditory cues while others need the visual, there just isn’t a set method to it all. You have to do what works for you and in the time it works for you. Sometimes we just need a little help seeing the trees through the clutter, while some of us just want to create a roadmap to organizational bliss.
If you are feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to start, Sprucely can help! If you’d like to have a consultation with Amanda to figure out how to make space in your life, click below and schedule and appointment.
Set the Table
Gather round! Dining rooms are great spaces for conversation and breaking bread…
Do you have a dining room and do you use it?
“We have more of an eat in kitchen - no formal dining room. We have never needed one. What is supposed to be our dining room is an office.”
“Yes we do. It looks very pretty holding my mail. We use it in cold weather when our family comes over for dinner. Not as often as I’d like.”
“All the time. (Until someone in my house took it over as her COVID-era work from home space!)”
“Yes, to date, once every 3 years … rethinking to make more of a flex space.”
“E: Yes and never
C: Oh you mean our craft palace catch all?”
“We don’t have a dining room, but do have a dining table separated from the rest of the kitchen by an island. We eat there several times per week.”
In my research of friends, it seems the dining room does exist, but is rarely used for nothing more than a holiday or extended family gathering. I think a lot of my people have eat-in kitchens or a dining table which extends, and is near the kitchen. Formal dining rooms seem to be a bit dated for most people, but I personally love them. I prefer to keep stove and plate separated. I think it also depends on what mealtime means to me as a concept. Do families still eat together? Do people still invite friends over for dinners rather than just cookouts and potlucks?
Growing up, the dinner table meant eating all your vegetables, doing all your homework, and having “serious” talks. This was very different than the dinner table at my Uncle’s house which consisted of a cloud of smoke resting upon anywhere from 5-12 family members playing cards, drinking and laughing hysterically. A dinner table that was a peninsula for biscuits and boudin on a Sunday morning after church, a meetup of cousins for late night cereal encounters, and countless holiday gumbos, fried turkeys, collards, and jumbaylas. It is the place of fond memories and heritage that defined my childhood. I think a lot of people associate the dinner table with tradition, but what does this room mean for the modern family?
Our dining rooms have now become transitional due to the pandemic. Dining rooms became workspaces, homeschool desks, and craft work areas, giving way to home offices becoming one of the most sought after rooms in buying a home. It also forced families to be around each other all the time and without some sort of room division, I can only presume, a formal dining room with pocket or French doors—a makeshift escape.
I guess I’m calling for a dining room comeback! I enjoy entertaining and cooking for people and having a meal presented, but mostly I enjoy a room where I can actually practice the art of conversation while enjoying the intimacy of breaking bread with family and friends. You know, caring and sharing over fork and knife. Perhaps I’m just old fashioned, but I do love showing an older home that has a formal dining room. I agree with my lady, Home Stylist, Ginny Sawatzky— “I’ve seen many unused dining rooms and have lots of reimagined ideas for those spaces.”
Decorating a dining or eating area doesn’t have to be a utilitarian task, you can have a room that is fun, elegant, or artfully themed. Whether it’s playing around with wainscoting, adding coffered ceilings, or experimenting with paint colors or wallpaper, by all means—go fork and dine!
le dining room
French inspired dining rooms could go one of two ways—the grand and detailed style fit for the Sun King himself, or opt for the simpler and cozier French countryside where the whisper of Lavender and the open air preside.
We’ll have a glam old time
I adore a glammed up room. I love the jewel tones and the lush textiles. Art deco decor mixed with that Hollywood feel makes for a great dining space with lots of dinner table good times.
@swoonworthyblog
for forks sake
Vintage Industrial is a fave of mine. Bold, but not cold, you can create a dining space that introduces a sexy elegance fit for sophisticated candlelit dinners or a dining room that will endure years of kidability and has that “restaurant” vibe.
sitta for a spell
Sometimes a darker Scandi look can be compared to the Modern Industrial look. I like my Nordic flare to have some attitude. Minimal, but not without statement, this style conjures transformative vibes and beautiful design.
Buy it on Amazon
For more dining decor ideas:
Season of the Witch
You don’t have to be afraid of the dark when decorating a moody and edgier theme. Check out these ideas that will create an enticing and unique living space for you and your guests without all the toil and trouble.
As a Realtor®, I get real tired of cookie cutter staging and bright open floor planned rooms. Don’t get me wrong, I like this look, but y’all I get bored easily. Wtichcore, Fairytalecore, Dark Academia, Naturecore—whatever trendy name they come up with basically encompasses a more whimsical, darker aesthetic. I like to call it #MystiqueCore. These days you can admire “gothic” or “darker” themes without it entailing the donning of vampire teeth and cheesy coffin beds. Gothic decor has become more refined and more celebratory of the natural elements, adding plants and an apothecary vibe to the mix. Here's some prime examples of how to make your home a little more witchy and a little less kitschy.
The thing to know about this type of home aesthetic is that this is not for minimalists at heart. You’ll be creating a curated museum type feel that will include the one if not all of the following themes and elements:
Cottagecore/Fairytalecore
Moody Scandinavian
Alchemy
Astrology
Whimsical
Dark Academia
Victorian
Steampunk
We’re talking terrariums, birdcages, mirrors—lots and lots of mirrors, oval frames, vintage botanical art, antique bottles, and muted, dark colors. I’m not saying you have to paint your entire house black, but accent walls that fall into the earthy blue, black, blood red, or Slytherin green works very well. Bone accents like drawer pulls, hung dried flowers/herbs, velvet and lush fabrics, and leather are also ways to give this an elevated and elegant look. Check out some of these cool ideas when deciding to come to the dark side and remember, you are allowed to have themed rooms in your home, we prefer cohesive but good witch to bad can create a dramatic transition throughout your home.
Photo by: Jo Ann Breaux, The Corbeau Collective
Toil and Trouble
Don’t worry, your guests are safe. Dried herbs, plants, natural oils in an apothecary-like setting will create a healing environment for you and your guests. Plants also add a nice pop of color, creating natural contrasts and life within your rooms.
Photo by: Jo Ann Breaux, The Corbeau Collective
Bring out the Dead
Taxidermy is a big one when trying to design in this theme. I’m not talking about that Elk you caught in the Fall of ‘06. I am talking about taxidermy that includes nicely curated animal skeletons in terrariums, framed bats, or beautifully pinned insects. There is beauty in death and you can decorate any room elegantly using this type of decorative motif.
Photo by Tuva Mathilde Løland on Unsplash
The Fairest of them All
For the love of Goth, it’s a lot of ornate mirrors. You can find a lot of these in Estate or thrift stores. Paint them black or paint them gold, either way, you’ll be the fairest in your domain.
Photo by: Jo Ann Breaux, The Corbeau Collective
Light the Night
Candelabras, Sconces, chandeliers, and lots of candles will light your way through the darkness. Spray adhesive lace around your votive holders to give a more elegant feel. You can even go with your favorite coven-mates and make your own special candles!
Curio cabinets with oddities and scavenged finds is perfect for any presentation. Remember not to get too Halloweeny, but do add elements that are going to work nicely with your furnishings and trims. Having a wall of mirrors or artwork has to look intentional. Do shop Estate sales for beautifully affordable antiques. Do paint furnishings blacks and play around with textures—matte vs glossy. Do play with color. All black gets dull, add some reds, yellows, greens in the mix. Stay away from kitschy decor, save that for the actual holiday.
I love this theme that creates comfortable, lush, and dramatic living space. Not everyone loves the light and you can just as well find beauty and classic feels in the dark as well. Happy conjuring!
For more edgy ideas, visit my Pinterest!
Interested in finding a cottage-like or Victorian home? Virginia has a few! Contact me and let’s get you home.
Just Going to Powder My, Er Wig?
Check out these fresh powder room ideas…Your half-bath will never look the same!
Before the phrase “powder my nose” came into fashion, “powder my wig” was the historical origin. Powder rooms were for privately dowsing talcum on the wigs of the wealthy. Then it wasn’t until makeup became mainstream that more popular term came to use. Today, they are your guests respite from game day, your friend’s pause from Rosé sipping, or a quick once over before leaving the house.
The powder room. Small in size, conveniently located, and you’ll never have to show your guest the variety of toiletries you keep on your vanity or the pile of laundry on your bed. Half baths are not just real estate selling points or a convenient pit stop during your event, these little hidden accommodations can be the highlight of your home. Don’t flush that creativity, powder rooms are made to stand out!
Adding Some Texture and Contrast
You can add some texture by installing wainscoting, battened, or bead board. You can do it easily, and pairing it with contrasting colored or wallpapered walls make for a great effect.
Get Dramatic
I like going into a powder room that has some effect. Whether it’s a moody color or fun wallpaper, your half bath can be a tiny retreat worth Covid handwashing time.
Sinks and Features
You don’t have to have traditional white all the time. From texture to color, you can adorn your powder room with cool patterns, modern features in various finishes, and choose from a variety of styles when it comes to sinks and / or toilets. Don’t flush your creativity away!
Take A Seat
Artwork can definitely bring some cool to your powder room. Entertain your guests with some fun potty mouthed humor or class it up with some vintage botanical artwork. Leave encouraging messages for your friends or show off your bathroom fixture schemas.
Let’s See Them Hands
In the age of Covid, we all want our guests to be hygienically aware, so whether you choose a one towel hang or a basket full, make sure you have plenty of absorbent ones on hand. Apparently, Turkish is the best. Hand towels are a prefect way to pop some color in there.
Urinate and Look Great!
Mirrors are great solutions to giving your powder room some illusioned space. They are also a great accessory, because let’s be honest, we use it half the time to freshen up before a good makeout session, a one last look before leaving for the office, or to make sure there’s nothing in our teeth after dinner. Let’s not forget about lighting, from sconces to pendants, lighting your half bath can bring out it’s style and leave you and your guests feeling their best!
Equip Your Half-Bath
I cannot tell you how many times I’ve been to a party and found myself in my host’s powder room and needed the following things: safety pin, mouthwash, tampon, a bandaid…having your powder room equipped for your guests is not just a nice gesture, but also will allow you to do more hosting with less interruption. Make sure they are on display. Some guests might find it invasive snooping in drawers and cabinets. Here are few things to consider when getting supplies:
An Unscented or pleasant scented lotion (Coconut, Lavender and Shea are the best choices)
An Antibacterial Soap (my favorite is Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Liquid Hand Soap)
Bandaids
Floss
Mouthwash with small cups
Tampons/Sanitary Napkins (guys this will win you points)
Brush/Comb
Reading Material (Some Examples)
Plenty of Toilet Paper
A container of Safety Pins
Tide To Go Stain Remover (All those wine spills)
Wet Wipes
Deodorant
Scissors
Odor Control (Poo-Pourri Toilet Spray is one of my faves)
Bobbi Pins
Lint Brush
For more Powder Room Ideas, visit:
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Listing Commandment: Thou Shall Update
Updating your home will add the most value to it’s sale. Put a little elbow grease and reap the rewards…
When I go on a Listing appointment, I have to be honest with my clients. If I were one myself, I surely wouldn’t want my agent to skirt around issues that may not be helpful in selling my house. Depending on the age and lived in status of your home, I usually suggest “improvements” to add value to your sale. Look, I know you don’t like homework. I get it, all you want to do is sell your house with minimal efforts and move on. As with all things this big in life, it is always good to plan ahead.
Kitchens and Bathrooms. It’s the two things in a home that most people pay the closest attention to when buying a house. They can be costly renovations from anywhere of $15K and upward. Any renovation can put a strain on your wallet, but some quick and simple amendments to your home can change the overall value of it. So ask yourself, do you want to get the greatest value for your home? I’d say, “duh”.
Here are a few suggestions to help enhance your home sale:
Painting is easy, a fresh coat of neutral paint goes a long way!
Radiators. If your radiators are no longer usable. Drain them and get rid of them. This will add space and ability to switch furniture around.
Windows. If you have any non functioning or broken windows, go ahead and replace them. This tends to show up on appraisal reports.
Update Light Fixtures. Take out those “boob” lights and replace them with modern chandeliers or pendant lights. If you have rooms that don’t have overhead lighting, seek to add it.
Repairs. If the toilet is broken, have it fixed. If you know of a roof leak, have it repaired. If little Johnny put his foot in the wall while pretending to be a Thundercat, mend it. If there are lights without bulbs or don’t work, fix it. Damage or non-working fixtures that will cause a buyer’s eye to wander can be easily replaced.
Borders. You bought in the 90’s and you never got rid of that kitchen floral border. My mom has this in three different rooms, I told her to remove it already!
Wallpaper. Wallpaper is a pretty chic addition these days, but if your wallpaper is from the 70’s giving you flashbacks of Aunt Mabel’s Jello casserole, you may want to get rid of it.
Carpet. If there are hardwoods, expose them. You can easily check this by simply pulling up a corner using a butter knife. I cannot tell you how many houses I show where buyers ask if there is hardwood underneath. If it was a newish installed carpet, have them steam cleaned. If you have dull looking hardwoods, have them refinished to give it a whole new refresh.
Dated Appliances and Systems. Find stainless at the Scratch n’ Dent or Marketplace, or you can check out some local estate sales and find some gently used ones. Replace old (15+ years) Heating and cooling systems as well as water heaters and washer/dryers with updated ones. You don’t want a buyer who enters a freezing cold living room during showings. The more energy efficient the better.
Cabinets. If you don’t replace them, paint them for a quick update. You can also add some nice pulls and handles to give it an extra oomph.
Countertops and Backsplashes. Consider replacing countertops with Quartz or Granite and add a tile backsplash to your kitchen or bathroom to add some color or texture to it.
Bathroom and Kitchen Fixtures. Everything’s coming up brass/gold/black these days, so my suggestion would be to replace faucet, showerheads, towel racks, drawer/cabinet pulls with something elegant and modern. Just make sure it’s cohesive per room.
Source: Houzz
Create a functional foyer. If you have an actual foyer, make it functional. Add a makeshift mudroom, under stairs storage or pet kennel, or simply adding some contrast by battening the walls or adding wallpaper to your stairwell can enliven your entryway.
Add Built-ins. People love a flanked fireplace with built-ins. Consider your space and whether this would be a nice feature to add to your home’s look.
Add a patio or deck. This can be an inexpensive feat that will create an inviting option for potential buyers and add value. Who doesn’t love outdoor entertaining.
Sheds. Simply organizing a workshed to show off space and functionality can be beneficial. If you can recreate it into a home office, that would be highly desirable to a lot of buyers these days.
Other Simple Improvements
Ceiling Fans. If these are dated, replace them with more modern looking ones.
Replace Vinyl Flooring. Adding tile floors to bathrooms and kitchens is always a desired feature.
Knock out a wall. If it’s feasible to create an open space, do it. That particular floor plan has not died out.
Add Shelving. Add shelving to your laundry room if it doesn’t have it. Take out wire shelving in walk-ins and replace it with wooden ones. Gives it a whole other look.
Basements. Consider finishing it off, it’ll add to your square footage and can be marketed easily.
Spruce up your front porch. You want potential buyers to see themselves here and the front being the first impression, sets the mood for the entire showing. Fresh paint, nice seating, add a porch swing, some plants/flowers, update your house numbers, whatever will attract the neighbors for afternoon iced tea is the ticket.
Mailboxes. If your mailbox is falling off or looks like it’s still gets Reader’s Digest, upgrade it. There are many unique and pretty ones out there.
Front Doors. Paint them, it’ll make the front of your house look more attractive.
Landscaping. Mowed and black mulch will create quick and easy curb appeal. Add flowers for full effect.
Lastly, there are many things I ask clients to do before putting their houses on the market that include thinning it out, professional cleanings, stagings, getting rid of personal items, and so forth. It’s how I earn that commission check. A good agent will give you a tasklist and will be available for questions. A good agent also provides trustworthy resources to assist you in prepping your home for sale. Feel free to contact me and I’m happy to do a consult with you regarding the sale of your home.
It's So Easy Being Green
As we approach warmer weather and the promise of Spring, March ushers in all things green.
My Viridescent Life
Green represents all that is harmony in life, nurturing and growing. Creating tranquil or rich homescapes is easily done with this viridescent hue.
Envy. Life. Eggs. Acres. Money. Gables. Packers. Emeralds. Trees. These are just a few words that conjure in my mind when I think of the color green. When I see the color green I feel calm, refreshed, and growth. The reason restaurants use a lot of green is to promote not just healthiness, but psychologically it puts people at ease, making them want to hangout for a while. Green is the color of money and is so not only because the ink was plentiful and durable at the time, but also because green was associated with stability.
Green is balanced and creates harmony. In your home, it can be inviting and creates a tranquil environment. So as the shamrocks bloom, the leprechauns dance, and the green beer gets guzzled by wannabe Irishmen everywhere this month, enliven your home with adding some touches of the viridescent shade. You can create an inviting ambience by painting some walls with Laurel Leaf by Better Homes & Gardens or Sherwin-Williams color of the year, Evergreen Fog. Want a more moody feel, get yourself some rich velvet greens to enhance your bedroom or lounge area.
The color green denotes nature that can nurture your soul. Try adding some touches of green to your home design, refresh the bath with a rustic shade of Sage or enliven your kitchen by painting those dull cabinets with a nice Moss green and contrast it with some nice neutrals. You can quite literally add a touch of green by adding some real growth with a well placed tall plant in the corner. I love using green in my design work and this year I’ve been seeing a lot of it in home decor and fashion and I love the freshness it can bring to a home.
- Ginny Sawatzky, GS Design
I personally am a huge fan of Hunter Green or darker greens. I like the intenseness of it and coupled with gold or black can definitely create a come hither vibe. I’m no green thumb, I leave that up to my mother, but I can handle hung succulent terrariums (yes, I will kill those too) for some subtle biosphere feels. With as much suffocated quarantined life as we can muster, it’s time to exhale don’t you think? Green is the perfect way to renew and refresh and replenish. It’s springtime, aren’t you ready to add life back into your home? Here are few ideas to inspire you this very verdant month.
Exteriors
While everyone is still on the charcoal greys and dark blues, get ahead of the curve and dare to be green!
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Walls
Accent walls with a hint of green can be calming, add a dark green shade and see the drama unfold.
Kitchens
Green eggs and Ham never tasted so good in your gorgeously viridescent kitchen.
Decor
Touches of green, from plants to green glass vases to accented pillows, you’ll find these along the way to Emerald city.
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Furniture
These signature pieces would make any living space inviting and you’ll be in the envy of all your guests.
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Plant Life
We couldn’t add touches of green without including the natural and tranquil nature of…well—nature. Enter the biosphere with these green adornments sure to help you breathe easier and say, “ahhhhhh”.
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All the House is a Stage
To stage or not to stage, that is the question…
To stage or not to stage, that is the question.
I get asked all the time on listing appointments whether it is a good idea to stage. In the past, I have always been adamant about not staging a home. Why? Well, in my humble opinion, I like to let buyers use the blank canvas to work out what they see their home to be. I also like them to see how much space they are getting. What have I learned in recent experience? People lack vision.
Sometimes buyers have a hard time imagining what the home is going to look like with their artwork on the walls and their furniture placed about. I went on a listing appointment recently where i did bring a staging consultant in and I was impressed to say the least. I think for me I get tired of seeing the same layouts and themes, and so me, as an individual don’t see it as “homey” or “lived in”. Finding a stager who brings personality, warmth and charm is important because lots of people are still actually living in their homes while listing, but also need to have their homes look attractive for showings.
Having a stager also nudges sellers to start organizing and prompts them to get rid of things they no longer need within the home. I always tell my clients, “less is more”. When buyers come in or I’m working with them, I want them to have their line of site clear of obstructions. I like for them to see that placing a chair from this wall to a corner, will create space. I want them to utilize their unique furnishings and decor without making it look to personalized. And yes, I know how difficult is for someone to come into your home that you’ve loved and lived in comfortably and directly tell you all the things that should go. But then again, it’s getting you used to the idea that, this is a chapter that is ending and you have a new one to look forward to and trust me, your home is going to look like the beauty siren it needs to be to ensure a quick sale.
“Staging can get your home sold faster, too. According to HomeAdvisor, homes that have been staged spend between 33% and 50% less time on the market. That not only means getting the proceeds of a home sale faster but also spending less money on added expenses such as a rental or storage unit while you wait for the sale to happen.”
Here are a few tips when considering staging:
Purge. Organize. Declutter. - I cannot stress this enough, if you want your house to look attractive, get rid of overflowing tchotchke shelves, filled to the brim closets, overcrowded bathroom vanities (nobody wants to see your gnarled haired razors or makeup infested counters). This also makes it a lot easier and more efficient for if you do hire a stager.
Hire a Professional Consult - Some agents use a preferred stager (myself included), but getting an expert to walk through the house to see what they are working with and making notes for you to do the staging yourself or having them do it, can be incredibly valuable. Some agents even include this in their services and pay the few hundred dollars themselves.
Buy it Cheap - baskets, glass vases, fruit, artwork, etc are all things that can highlight your home when listing. Check out the dollar store or a thrift store to purchase these items.
Include Landscaping - Yes, even the exterior of your house should be staged. Fresh mulch, colorful flowers, a bistro set on the porch are all things you can do to increase curb appeal.
Consider the Olfactory - smell is important when staging a home, especially if you have pets! Coffee, boiled lavender or cinnamon, simple scented candles (ex. fresh linen, apple pie, pumpkin spice or vanilla)
Change out Your Air Filters - people always forget about these but changing them out and also opening windows to let air circulate is a good rule of thumb
Professional Cleaners - I swear by them before listing. They will get rid of dust, odors, and gook on the windows and mirrors. If you have carpets, get them steam cleaned right before listing. I cannot tell you how many houses I’ve shown and the carpets are disgusting and smell bad.
Cost - to stage a whole home can be expensive. It can be from $600 to upwards of $2,000+ which may or may not include setup and breakdown fees. Some stagers will allow for payment at closing, but most are upfront fees. Also, consider if you are using a storage unit to house your “clutter”, that’s an additional monthly fee.
I always wonder how many moms, dads, aunts, and real estate agents go through staged homes and say, “Oh, that’s a nice design feature.” or “My house is similar to this and I just love how they arranged this room.” I do it all the time. So, as much as I want you to list your house, you may just want a redesign of the one you have. Feel free to contact me and I can get you a consult scheduled with my preferred organizer/designer/stager.
Where the Magic Happens
Enjoy these bedroom ideas to inspire and arouse your sacred slumber chambers.
I love my bedroom. I spent a majority of my childhood sharing a bedroom with my younger brother, and although his sleepwalking adventures were fascinating and our bunk bed shenanigans were delightful, moving from a three bedroom childhood home to a two bedroom apartment deemed challenging. As I progressed into teendom and the wearing out of every Cure tape I had, my mother ended up on a couch while my brother settled into his own space. Twas hard times back then.
As an adult, I long for the day of having all matching furniture, an accent wall, and room for a chaise lounge and ensuite bathroom to call my own. Let’s not forget a walk-in closet that i can actually see my clothes and shoes in. Sigh, bedrooms are for dreaming right?
I think we can all agree that the intimacy a bedroom can provide is also the intimacy it can provoke. It is February people! But seriously, bedrooms should be a place of relaxation, fantasy, a place to be pensive and quiet, and provide you with your own private sanctuary. Here are some bedroom ideas for you to sleep on:
Textured Accent Walls
We’ve stared at four walls for quite some time now and the bedroom is no different. Creating a textured accent wall can add depth and really showcase that dreamy furniture of yours and it’s an easy DIY project! Make different patterns and be creative.
Pendant Lighting
Lighting in a bedroom is everything! I love the look of hanging pendant lights and the variety of styles and shapes is aplenty. My only qualm about this one is if you are anything like me and want to switch your bed elsewhere in six months, moving lighting around can be difficult. The look is stunning though!
Wallpaper Accented Walls
When you want to be able to change up your background, go with easily interchangeable wallpaper to create a dramatic effect.
Upholstered and Shapely Headboards
Bespoke headboards are making a comeback and in gorgeous colors and textures. Headboards in general are making their way back into the scene with cool shapes and bold patterns that make spotlighting your restful slumber unique and expressive. They are also easy to DIY your own creations.
Painted and Textured Furniture
Bring pops of color into the bedroom with muted, colorful or textured furniture. We are still seeing deep rich woods, but color adds some pizzazz to your space.
Time to get to work and bring some magical refresh skills to your boudoir. Find your bedroom style, whether it’s moody and dark or light and bright. Visit estate sales and upcycled shops to find unique pieces you can refinish and make your own. Check out some local artists, and give your bedroom walls a little oomph. RVA has so many great woodworkers, artisans, and designers to make for a very comfortable and sacred place. Nighty, nighty!
Hibernation Central: Organizing Your Winter Gear
Winter can get messy and not all of us have the luxury of a mudroom, but here are some great DIY ideas for storing and organizing your cold weather wearables.
We are at the pivotal moment in season where we can pick up our winter coat and say, “Yes, yes I will be wearing you today.” Well, it’s hard to say since I was donning shorts and a t-shirt a mere week ago. Richmond is climate schizophrenic like that. Not all of us have been blessed with mudrooms to neatly don our Boho chic pillows, scripted names, and Toms. For years I’ve had winter coats strewn throughout the house, scarves hung from doors and on chairs, and snow tracked paths to the kitchen from wet boots. Not having a lot of space where these things can be kept organized, can make your house look like a Winter stripfest. I collected a few DIY winter projects for you to help easily store and organize your seasonally appropriate accoutrements. Hibernation has become our new winter sport it seems and what better way to pass the time than to put a project on your plate!
Baskets and Ladders
Putting a bird on it is no longer on trend the way that utilizing a ladder now reigns as trendiest home decor must. This idea does not disappoint. Take yourself to your local Dollar Tree and grab some baskets. Paint them for added effect and here you will have a place for gloves, scarves, legwarmers, and hats. It’s a great way to utilize small entryways and to put underneath shelving. Go on, put a ladder up.
Hanging Shoe Rack
I gotta take credit here. I’ve been doing this for a long time. I converted my hanging shoe rack to store my hats, gloves and scarves easily. I also put my sunglasses, mini-umbrellas, and bad hair day ties here.
Paint Cans and Hooks
Here’s one for all you crafty folks out there. Paint cans make a great way to store your winter wearables and it’s an easy DIY project. Fasten paint cans to a mounted board, add some hooks underneath, voila! Insta storage!
Clothes Pins
So simple and easy as getting some wire or gluing clothes pins on a hanging board and bam, you’ve got a cute and hassle free way of hanging your winter accessories.
Pebble Boot Tray
Who wants their boots to sit in a puddle of cold water? The point is to dry them out. Adding pebbles or marbles to your tray helps keep your boots dry and is an easy way to store them.
Want more Winter Storage ideas? Click and check it out!
You can skip these ideas all together and take that boring entry way closet and make your own mini mudroom.
A More Serene Scene: 2022 Paint Color Trends
Create a fresh start with 2022 color trends…
Ready to add some color to the new year? I know I am. One of the things I’m most excited about in 2022 is that I finally get to paint these beige walls! Painting your home is without a doubt expressing your home style to the world and whether it’s fun and festive or moody and monochrome, paint can create your room’s aura. Believe it or not there is a psychology to the colors you choose.
You want to lower someone’s blood pressure or to create a soothing space, go with blues and if you want to increase activity and creativity go with orange. Obviously having a fire engine red foyer is going to hit different than a nice fresh light green. Speaking of greens…looks like the greens have it in 2022. 2022 looks like a serene and tranquil scene with earth tones to complement. Here are the new color trends for the new year. Get those brushes out and create a renewed and personal space!
Interior Color Trends for 2022
Click pics for more info
Sugar and spice and everything daughter
September 25th marks #NationalDaughtersDay and what better way to celebrate than give them some room!
written by: Jo Ann L. Breaux
My step-daughter has been watching fashion shows with me since she was 3 years old. The question, “Jo, can we watch more Chanel?” never made me so proud. She’s 8 now, and her sense of fashion and style have grown into finding identity in her room. Her dad built her a loft bed this past Christmas adorning her very own initial in it. She has her very own reading nook underneath and a place for her dolls. Every daughter’s bedroom is a special place. It’s where she gets to relax, to get dressed up, to imagine and play, to cry over heartbreaks, and to hold her keepsakes. It’s her sanctuary.
These days decor has changed for little girls, pink is no longer a dominant color and nor is the princess palace themed room. Don’t get me wrong, there are still a LOT of princesses out there, but there are a lot more options when it comes to the progression of nursery to teen hideout. I personally am a huge fan of the dark academia themed rooms, but hey all ladies are not the same. My girl’s room has gone from My Little Pony to Mermaids to her current obsession with stars and Harry Potter (I too wanted Gary Oldman to look over me while I slept). It will be interesting to see where her bedroom goes from here, but I’m praying for posters of her music idols and fashion themed decor. There are a ton of YouTube videos for DIY projects to recreate their sleeping quarters and finding cool second furniture and decor is a fun thing you can do with her.
So, in celebration of #NationalDaughtersDay (September 25th), here are some cool ideas to decorate your daughters’ bedrooms.
Wallpaper
I’m really digging wallpaper in general, but these are perfect for creating drama and fun in her room. Tapestries are excellent options due to how easily interchangeable they are. (click photos more info)
Paint Colors
We all know pink can be a dominant girl color, but adding contrast with it can create a less mundane princess pad or try something different with these paint trends.
Decor
No daughter’s bedroom would be complete without those little personal touches. From rugs to bed canopies to cool mirrors and wall art, creating a space that’s all her own will give her the confidence, privacy, and ability for her to be creative.
What a Girl Needs
Every daughter’s room should have these essentials. These will give her utility, identity, and self-care needs to make her space her very own haven from the outside world. Don’t forget to add a record player/good speakers for her listening pleasure.
FOR MORE INSPIRATION
Make it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
I think having daughters is a bit more of a challenge than sons. The best gift you can give your daughter is support and understanding. If she’s confident and knows herself, she will do great things in the world. Cherish your daughters, they are special creatures and spend time with them. Need some ideas?
Pinkies Up
Jefferson (make your reservation NOW)
Make Me Pretty
Spa-Tacular (6+ years)
Renewal (grown daughters need love too!)
Take your pre-teen to learn how to apply and do her makeup right by booking an appointment at Ulta or visit one of the counters at the mall
Go Girl!
Get your Katniss on with an Archery Lesson
We all want ponies! Take her on a ride at Greenwood Stables
Take a hike! Virginia is full of amazing hiking trails. Pocahontas is always near and dear.
Take her fishing!
Go Rollerskating or take a bike ride on the Capital Trail
A Date to Create
Make Dinner by taking an online cooking class (all ages)
Get a Reading with a local Tarot Reader or for a more mature and highly fun reading check out Madame Adam (18+ activity)
Take a Shine Dance Fitness Class at Dogtown (all ages)
Take them to the VMFA but give them clues to find things in art
Have some fun with plants and visit PlantHouse (21+ activity)
Rock Out
Get tickets now to see The Killers
Take her record shopping, talk about your favorite songs growing up
Design your very own band shirts
Write a song together
Girls Just Want to Have Fun
Here’s some prime advice, sometimes daughters just want to talk. This is a prime opportunity for you to listen. Make it a teachable moment and one that is encouraging. Talk to her about school, boys, dating, girls, bullies, dreams. Take some time out of your busy lives to visit with your grown up daughters. Take her out to lunch or a movie. Enjoy your day together and vibe on all that love!
Arriba, Arriba!
Transforming your high rise balconies into a comfortable oasis can easily be done and is a nice DIY project for the summer!
One of the things I love about the architecture here in RVA is it’s balconies. I love a good balcony and there’s nothing like sipping coffee or having a glass of vino from it as you overlook your domain. Many of the Fan apartments I lived in during my residences in Richmond have come donning balconies. Many of them left significant memories of hangs with friends, late night romances, and a proper setting for reads and contemplations.
I used to put a chair out there and maybe some makeshift table to collect ashtrays, bottles, and accouterments fit for a college student. I haven’t had a balcony since my days on Avondale in Bellevue, the only thing I miss about that rental. The balcony now resides on my wish list of things I’d like when purchasing a home, especially one that my Queen’s Quarters leads to.
RVA is seeing a boost in its Condo living in the city and most of these units do come with their elevated lookouts. The balconies seen in our neighborhood’s Revival, Colonial and Edwardian styled homes tend to be an easier space to decorate just by sheer size. It would be equivalent to decorating your deck or patio, but our city dwellers have a smaller platform to work with. Not to worry, one can turn these into cozy lifted oases fit for Juliet herself. However, although our city dwellers have a smaller space to work with, there are many options for creating a unique and comfortable space to look down upon.
FLOORING
Flooring tiles and rugs can create beautiful textures and colors for your balcony flooring and can range from super affordable and interchangeable to super luxe and very expensive. tiles are great for mixing and matching and rugs give an added comfy feel to your outdoors. Check out these cool floorings to bedeck your box.
IKEA: RUNNEN
OVERSTOCK
GRANADA TILE: SERENGETI
RUGGABLE
WAYFAIR: MISHA
FAB HABITAT
You can coze up any balcony on a budget! Check out this cute and affordable makeover.
LIGHTING
Hopefully your balcony is equipped with some electricity, but if not there are some nice LED options. Lighting is a nice addition to your balcony space, it creates the mood and ambience up there. Do you want a party platform or a romantic rendezvous? You have a few options for the ultimate elevated experience. Places like Walmart and Target have solar powered lanterns/lighting which are decorative and affordable. There is always the string light option and I will say there has been a few that are a bit different than the plain ole bulbs of yore. I personally love a combination of candles and decorative lanterns. You might also want to think about making lighting interchangeable perhaps to satisfy your holiday expressions.
PRIVACY
“I always feel like, somebody’s watching me…” Rockwell said it best. I have to say this is my favorite addition to any balcony. We have all been there. You get up, you want to do a nice long stretch and take in the outside air and you don’t want to get dressed doing it or perhaps you are trying to have cuddle time with your mate, but don’t Mr. Jones next door all up in your biz. Curtains are romantic flowing in the wind, but if you want to find something a bit more substantial there are a variety of attachable screens that will tend to not just your privacy, but also your sun intake. If you are looking for something that will add to your balcony decor, try looking for vintage wooden screens at your local thrift shop and paint them with reckless abandon. Here are few ideas you can find just using that good ole google search.
FURNITURE
Depending on how big or small your balcony is will determine how much furniture and what types will provide a comfortable setting. I love the removable and foldable tables/bars you can utilize for eating al fresco. I am also in love with the cool and cozy balcony swings or maybe you prefer a full on hammock up there. Create a raised oasis by adding small tables with lanterns/candles, vertical planters to make your space green and alive, wall niches for succulents or books, or add some art for fun. One of my favorite balcony makeovers it the transformation into an outdoor theater idea. Make a nice sit in movie area, perfect for bingeing and cuddling watching your favorite flicks. An outdoor heater or fire bowl can bring warmth even on those crispy, Fall evenings. YouTube has DIY projects galore from tool-free furniture to high rise pergolas, there’s plenty to explore.
You’d be surprised how beautiful and creative you can make this small or large outdoor space. Decor options are endless. From vertical planters to palette furniture with cushions of modern, vintage, or sleek designs. You can adorn with cozy chairs and bistro tables, add a small cocktail/tea station, or a swing. It’s truly an elevated blank canvas for the taking. Need some inspiration? Check out my Pinterest board for other ideas!
A Rose is a Rose is a Rose
It’s #NationalRoseMonth and cultivating the notable English Rose in Virginia is idea for adorning your home inside and out. Here are some tips…
A Rose is A Rose...
It’s #NationalRoseMonth and we are celebrating these gorgeously, fragrant blooms with some tips.
“No matter where I roam, I will return to my English rose. For no bonds can ever tempt me from she.”
It is the month of the most famously romantic flora—The Rose. I’ve always looked at roses like engagement rings, they are pretty, but they don’t tickle my fancy say, like sapphires and peonies. However, roses hold a significant part of my memory banks and when I think of them, I think of my mother. She used to plant them when I was growing up and was so proud of them. Of course my mom can cultivate pretty much any plant on Earth, unlike my horticulture impaired self.
Over the last year, I’ve been ordering fresh cut flowers and I have been loving these decorative blooms. Some have even made lovely dried flower arrangements around the house. I particularly love the multi-toned hybrids. The rose that gets the best growth in Central Virginia is the—cue “Candle in the Wind”—The English Rose!
So, roses have genealogy as deep as our own and people take cultivating them as seriously as their breeding of Labradoodles. You’d think our roses came from Sir Elton’s home country, but actually they come from 18th century China. Now, for all of us rose dummies, the Kingpin of English roses, is cultivar David Austin. This man combined a special hybrid of old and new world roses. He’s so good at it, he created the most expensive selling rose, Juliet, selling it for $15.8 million. Shoo wee, that’s an expensive bloom sir! These gorgeous blossoms make any bridal bouquet stunning.
Are you ready to adorn your home in these fragrant and fairly easy to grow flora? Here are some tips on how to successfully do so:
Make sure it’s sunny! Roses love the sun so make sure where you plant them, they get the majority of the day basking in it.
They grow on bushes/shrubs so make sure you space them out accordingly. For the best effect, plant them about 40-45” apart. It will give it a more standout look.
It isn’t necessary, but to get best results make sure you compost and fertilize the soil to enrich it and to feed your blooms. Roses tend to grow in most soils, but for ultimate success prep your rose garden and keep the soil moist.
Soak them entirely before planting them and plant them quickly. Don’t let the bulb dry out.
Because we live in a more moderate climate here in Virginia, plant the base at ground level.
Keep them watered well during the first planting. After the first year, you can be a little more lax about the watering, taking it back to about every other day.
Remember to trim! You can prune your bushes to dictate how big you want them, but also remember to trim the blooms to make more room for others!
Decorate. Get those vases ready and showcase your girls!
Ask your local nursery for more detailed tips. Get growing!
Don’t forget to schedule your visit to Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens for some prime Rose viewings.
National Homeowners Month
We all wish for the American Dream of homeownership, celebrate National Homeowners Month with starting your very own wishlist!
My dad is laying on the couch, a Kent King hanging from his mouth, green beanie on, newspaper in hand, football on the television while my mom’s sewing machine hums from my pink and white bedroom, altering clothes for the local department store. My brother and I just completed shooting hoops and climbing trees in the backyard and now we crave the Little Debbies! Our orange and white cat Tommy lays spread out on the orange and green kitchen floor waiting to be fed. The scenes from my childhood home varied over time. From crawfish littering the red patio out back while my aunts and uncles, Schlitz cans in hand, scuffled to Zydeco tunes, to the soundtrack from “A Star is Born” filling the house up on a Saturday morning, to the first time I watched in awe from our sun soaked living room, MTV’s first airing, that house held so many good, and not so good memories. And maybe a ghost a two. I remember that house in all its details like it was yesterday.
Owning a home brings with it the feel of the ultimate achievement. Home is where we find comfort and protection. It’s the place where we can put our feet up and dance naked. It’s the setting for birthdays, new beginnings and hopeful endings. It is our blank canvas and the expression of ourselves where we invite others to be a part of. There is nothing like coming home from a hectic day, taking off the work clothes, and sitting on the back patio, beverage in hand. Home is an extension of ourselves. I think that is why it is supremely satisfying to own one.
This month is Homeowners Month, and we want nothing more than to help you to obtain this goal. We have great lenders who will work to find you the best lending options. We have a dedicated and efficient team who will guide you through the entire process and we will all start with one thing—a dream. Your dream. Start putting that wishlist together because even though you think you can’t afford a home to call your own, ask yourself, where are you now? Are you paying $1200-2000 of someone else’s mortgage? Just sayin’. Start putting that plan in place because you CAN do it!
This month ask yourself some questions: If you already own a home, is it the one you really want? Have your needs changed? Do you even like it anymore after Covid? Are you crushing on your neighbors or has Mr. Jones’ dog driven you mad? Did you change jobs? Did your kids just graduate? Are you sick of mowing your lawn? Can you receive the long awaited guests you’ve been missing? Are you ready for a custom built fantasy? Are you NEVER going back to the office? Generational land becoming appealing to you? So many questions, so much pondering to do, but so many possibilities!
So, this month, think about what home means to you and where you want to be. We’re here if you need us! And yes, you can AirBNB the shed! You know what’s great for motivation, a vision. I too have a vision for Home Ownership, wanna see?
Time to Shine
With just an inkling of rising temperatures, it’s the time when we emerge from our cocoons and start giving the outside of our homes the attention it deserves…
I do believe we will be spending another Spring / Summer in limited social capacity. Yes, I too am over it. While some of you will take the chance to leap onto greener pastures through travel or masked frolicking, others will now start to plan their warmer weathered activities.
As I stare at the dead plants upon which I adorn my stoop and porch with, I can fairly say my gardening skills are less than stellar. Cutting grass for me is quite enjoyable as I see it taking the place of my wasted gym membership (which I’m still paying for by the way). We broke down and forked out a stimulus check to get a pool worth wading in while basking in the Summer heat. It got a little messy in our backyard to say the least. This year, I want to create an inviting, pest free space. A space that doesn’t denote the hint of unemployed and overfilled recycling bins, one that says, “Hello, welcome to our Summer bubble, won’t you come in and enjoy this lavender flavored iced tea.”
All that being romanticized, we have a large yard. Last year I broke down and got my own landscaper who mulches, weeds, and takes care of anything that will put us in the “trashy” category. I also recalled last year’s heavily booked schedules for landscapers, painters, gutter cleaners, powerwashers and roofers. So here’s your little reminder for all those wanting that luxurious looking curb appeal to get on the books now! Here are a few I’ve used who provide excellent service. I recommend one that provides a membership-like schedule.
Landscapers
Arborists
PowerWashers
Gutters
Handy Repairs
In addition to yard primping, Spring cleaning should be on the list as well. Think about how long you’ve been inside, living, working, playing in your home. Also, a great Mother’s Day gift *wink *wink. A good deep clean will refresh your home for the new season and what better way to eliminate any wandering virus potentials. These cleaners are Covid safe and will give your home that sun shiny clean it’s been waiting for!
In addition to yard primping, Spring cleaning should be on the list as well. Think about how long you’ve been inside, living, working, playing in your home. Also, a great Mother’s Day gift *wink *wink. A good deep clean will refresh your home for the new season and what better way to eliminate any wandering virus potentials. These cleaners are Covid safe and will give your home that sun shiny clean it’s been waiting for!
My Best Cleaners
Some other improvements/refreshes to make during this time:
Resealing/Painting of Decks
Painting the Front Door a New Color
Updating your Roof if Needed
Ordering Maintenance for Your HVAC Units
Buy your Above Ground Pool NOW
Get New Cushions for Your Outdoor Furniture
Paint your Fences
Call Me to Do a Walkthrough for Listing Your Home!
Let the beautification begin! For any all recommendations visit:
The Colors of My Life
Colors are so powerful when it comes to setting a mood, selling or buying a house, or capturing a feeling…
All My Colors (in order): My house exterior, My house interior, the velvet blue furniture I’m dreaming of, the black that comes with the Aston Martin, and Valentino red I love to don as frequently as possible.
You know when you’re dreaming and something catches your eye and it leaves you with such a desire that you want it to become part of you? That’s how I feel about color. I’m sure all you design freaks are in the know that Pantone chose not one, but two colors of the year for 2021. I guess since 2020 was such a dull grey that had to spice things up. Funny enough they chose Illuminating Yellow and Ultimate Gray, how contrary and a good depiction of the past and future.
“Sherwin-Williams sets revenue records as DIY paint sales jump during pandemic.”
I’ve always found yellow to be an abhorrent color. I felt the only places it looked good on were lemons, bananas and the sun, but I’ve started to warm up a little to certain shades. Anyone who is familiar with my brand, knows I am a color loyalist — red and black will most likely be my go-to when choosing representation and clothing. My mother hated my goth phase in high school, “You know in Panama prostitutes wear black!” It gave me great satisfaction putting a sole red bandana in my hair to satisfy her discontent. I did however go through a strong purple phase, especially with hair colors (mom loved that). Each time I wear red I am complimented highly. It suits my passions, my culture, and my eye. Black, well, black says bold, it makes a statement that is serious, yet chic and I like that. I think after my obsession of wanting to fit in, becoming a slave to the United Colors of Benetton, it only seemed logical that my rebellious side take over, leaving black as my only option to convey how I was feeling (angsty) and besides, what color displayed The Cure and Depeche Mode better?
The memory of color is etched in my brain. I can remember the shade of green our 1970’s leather living room couch wore and I remember the electric blue hot pants my neighbor wore on her first day of high school. I recall only choosing the Midnight Blue crayon to shade my Fashion Plates’ designs until it diminished, unusable, and wished they had more than one in there. I still love that color to this day. I know I cringe at the sight of pastels, and coral seems to incite a certain gag reflex in me. I met a girl once who had Synesthesia and I was so fascinated that every time she would see or think of numbers it was a different color. I giggled as I asked her what painting by numbers was like. When I used to see gold in homes, it used to make me think of chintzy, gaudy things, now it has become a marketable trend. I think it’s safe to say that colors can remark an era of time, think turquoise and yellow kitchens of the 1950s, but who knew that a shade of pink could define an entire generation?
Color invokes emotion, memory and sets a mood. It is a factor in why some houses sell and others don’t. If I do a walkthrough for an upcoming listing and the walls are painted with an unattractive color, I tell them they need to paint. I’ve had clients pass on a bid because they didn’t like the color of the house, even though they could very well paint it the color of their dreams. I showed a house once that had a beautiful dining area with Emerald green accented walls accompanied with vintage wallpapering. I had to remind my clients to see the rest of the house before putting an offer, they loved that room so much.
We, as Agents, tend to steer listers towards neutrals, but I don’t hesitate to add color as a future option for my purchasers. It helps them set an individual tone to their home and envision what it could be. We are currently in a moody, vivid trend with home paint colors, which I am loving. I like to see a bathroom that’s painted black with brass fixtures, or a dining room that has a darker shade of blue on it’s walls. I think it pops and creates a unique atmosphere. When I lived in New York, I painted the living room this burnt sienna color and had warm hues and textures adorning it, think Morocco. We never had a guest who stayed awake in that room, there was always at least one person who fell asleep peacefully in a room full of people. I was proud to create that reaction because it meant my home was that comfortable.
Photo by: Homes & Gardens
Trends or no trends, color is an important aspect to home. It helps us express who we are and how we want others to feel. It’s powerful in it’s aesthetic and what it does to your psyche. I view color the way I view art, I feel it. If I walk into a room and I see Drunk Tank Pink, I’m going to instantly hurl. As you can deduce, pink is not my favorite color. Technology has made it so easy to create colors that are one of a kind or mock that of a bird or a classic car you love. So much inspiration, so little space! So, as the weather starts to warm up and you’re making your list of home improvements this Spring, think about how you want your house to look, inside and out. If you are thinking about selling this year, it’s a perfect time for you to be picking out your curb appealing shades. In the meantime, enjoy the blue skies, golden sun, and budding greens we are currently having, we’re due for a more colorful kind of year, no?
If you are thinking about selling your home and need some help guiding you through the process, please feel free to contact me. I’m more than happy to help you get the best value for your property and as quickly as possible.
Quarantine Chronicles: 13 Tips for Seasonal Home Prep
Tis the season for seasonal home prep. The weather is going to get crispier out there and now is the time to get those home improvement projects under your belt…
Yes, I see that yard filling up with the leaves. I also see the gutters overflowing. October is the perfect time to start prepping your home for the colder months OR for a possible listing. Here are few things to do to make that happen and increase not only curb appeal, but also add value to your home!
Get those gutters cleaned and schedule any roof repair needed.
Get those last mowings done and start protecting your plants and gardens.
Go around and see what seals on your home need to be repaired or replaced. Include repairing any leaks that your home might have as well.
Replace any old insulation.
Get your fireplaces cleaned and make sure they are in working order. This includes your furnaces and heating units. Get covers for your AC units to aid them in lasting longer and not getting damaged through the winter months.
Plant some grass seed for any patches in your yard or where the swimming pool was this summer.
Build your deck or repair it, it’s a great time for this and will lead to some nice outdoor space during those crisp evenings.
Build your firepits and get some nice blankets for guests who come over.
Paint your front doors and add some nice Fall decor to the mix, your home will feel refreshed and pop on the street.
Clean out your closets! Whether you are purging or alternating into your winter wardrobe, time to organize!
Get wood for the fireplace and fire pits! Everyone is going to be scrambling since most of us will be holed up at home depending on Covid, so be prepared! Get your wood now!
Power wash the exterior of the house. This is a must if you plan on selling. it will brighten and make your home look like new!
Consider cleaning any carpets in the house. Sure, we’ve been quarantined and left in our homes a lot more, but this will increase as the weather gets colder. Humidity is dissipating and cooler temperatures will allow for windows can be opened making drying easier.
Quarantine Chronicles: Daddy’s Domain
Dads need their own spaces as much as moms need their Lady Lair…
I like the significance of father. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think you need a father to be a great father, but I can truthfully say, I’m glad my dad was in my life because he surely didn’t have to be. I think if my dad had his own space, he would have been able to enjoy more things he was interested in.
The definition of what men should and shouldn’t be is a point of contingency to some. You’ve got dads who play chess and drink single malt Scotch. You’ve got garage dad who likes to tinker all day and drive real fast at night. You’ve got sports dad whose only dream is to watch Monday night football every single day of the week while he eats chicken wings and sips on Bud Light. In today’s world, you also have dad’s who enjoy crafting a good centerpiece. The point is, every dad has interests and every dad likes his alone time (just as every woman does!). So, I thought it’d be fun to show some cool ideas for dad rooms, which in turn made me want a dad room, I tend to have more masculine desires in decor. I freakin’ love whiskey, playing poker and watching soccer! Anyway, check these out:
The Cigar/Smoke Room
I want this one for myself. I truly love smoking and smelling cigars. I also love whiskey. My man brain wish is to have a room like this downstairs in my fantasy home, but you can’t only get to it through a secret door. Jeremy Siers is this dude I just started following and he’s a dad and honestly, he’s pretty rad. He built this custom cigar room in his home all you smoke lovers will enjoy.
The Tinker Room
I’ve got a man who builds stuff and is a natural tinkerer, unfortunately he knows nothing about cars! I think guys who like to tinker long for a workshop/garage of some sort. Besides the right quality tools, I think the key to a good workshop is organization, so shelving and storing is important. A workbench is crucial, make sure it’s a good size and height to work comfortably at. Lighting is also beneficiary, especially for gear heads and a good wireless speaker to keep you motivated. Here’s some great examples:
Sound it Out
Not only do I live with a builder, but also a musician. Musicians absolutely need their own space, for the love of god, take that riff somewhere else! You may be tired of the microphone-filled drawers which have taken over your household (because he just hasn’t found the right sound yet) or when you’re office becomes your shared paradiddle and flam station and you keep knocking into the high hat trying to get to your bottle of wine? These man rooms are great for outdoor areas or basement space so when he and the other “living the dream” boys come over for a jam session, you can send them on their way. PS there are a ton of videos on turning your basement, garage or attic into a home music studio.
Sports/Gaming Bar
Yes ladies, I know some of you are very anti-sports and know when you’re being asked to make your famous seven layer dip, it’s game day. So while he’s hootin’ and hollering at the tv, you can enjoy folding laundry, baking a cake, doing craft stuff, working, calling your bestie, or giving yourself a spa treatment in peace! Make sure there’s a fridge in there so you’ll never have to replenish those White Claws, I mean Bud Bottles. Seriously though, a good sports/rec getaway has a bar area, snacks, a good fridge and don’t forget a gigantic flat screen and comfy seats. If he loves to play as much as he loves to watch, he’ll want to indulge in some gameplay, enjoy some pinball or cue it up.
So as I was going through all these Daddy Dens, i decided I wanted my own proving that just like moms, dads need their self-love space. Whether they are working on restoring a 1967 R60/2 BMW motorcycle, perfecting their Radiohead cover songs, or watching the big game, these are breeding grounds of bonding moments for your children. So, happy Father’s Day to you dads out there teaching your kids how to change tires, play a guitar solo, play chess, bust a move or play Mineecraft, you’re doing an excellent job!
For more ideas for Dad rooms, visit my Pinterest Page!
Well, Color Me Quarantined
While the walls close in, it might be some time to add some color to this dim quarantined life we’re livin’…
Written by: Jo Ann L. Breaux
If you are adhering to the Stay At Home mandate, then you, like many others are taking advantage of this time to do home improvements. Time to bring some color while the world is in a dim place. I’m calling it the “Quarantine Period”, A New Dark Age. Time to put that partner to work on the many projects that have been put off because there’s been a lack of time. Let’s start by brightening up our homes! Whether it’s going to be put on the market after all this, or it’s just to improve your current surroundings, here are some of my picks for color trends happening in 2020!
GLORIOUS GREEN
I have a rediscovered love for green. I recently showed a client a home with Victorian fireplaces surrounded by Emerald Green tiles. It was quite beautiful. I always associated green with institutions or peas for some reason, but I’m seeing a hint of it in recent renovations and I have to say, it’s a welcome hue to the grays that have been so popular in the last few years. You’re sure to create some envy with these shades.
Check out my Pinterest Board for other ideas!
I love a lusher green. Current Mood looks great with creams, golds, coppers, and über light pinks.
I like this green in the kitchen, but it works everywhere and gives a nice calm and collected feel.
I love this green for an organic neutral and works well with pops of color.
Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues
It’s always been a dream of mine to have a deep blue dining room. Blues create coolness and the moodier the better. There’s a reason Midnight Blue was always missing from my Crayola box. Your rooms will sing serene, mysterious, and command attention.
Blue Danube is the perfect hue to drama up your entryway or bring a sophisticated statement to your dining area.
Naval is the perfect color to add mystery and richness to your interiors and bring out golds, yellows, and reds.
Light blues are going to be trendy this year as well. Cauliflower blue, pale blue, and powder blues will be adorning walls in 2020.
Moody, Lush, and Coy.
As we see Mid Century “I’m cool and own an Eames chair” Modern take a seat, I do believe we will be seeing more Art Deco and 1920’s accents in interiors as well as deeper colors that create mood and mystique. You’ll see the starkness of blacks and whites making bold minimalistic statements as well. Millennial pink is still dominating with trends in brass fixtures, I’m seeing some trends in Oceanic serenity and ‘come to my caravan’ romance. I hope these will inspire you to take on your quarantined home improvement project and add some color to those all too familiar walls.
