Trending Bathroom Re-Decoration Styles This Summer

 The weather’s hot. The windows are open. Everything feels fresh and new.  And yet, it seems that the summertime vibes haven’t quite reached your bathroom. That’s why you’re thinking of spending the season redecorating your space so that it feels as exciting as the sunny weather happening outside of your home.  Of course, launching into a bathroom makeover isn’t a particularly easy task, especially if you’re not one for decorating in the first place. That’s why we’ve gathered a list of the 5 hottest trending styles to inspire the changes you make this summer.

 1. Dark Hardware

 Any easy way to make an impact when sprucing up your bathroom is to swap out the hardware. If you choose pulls and knobs with the same number of screws as the ones you have now, you can easily pop out the old and affix the new ones in a matter of hours.

 Now, if you want to make your new hardware extra-trendy, opt for dark finishes. Matte black or bronze will instantly modernize your bathroom. It looks especially sharp next to lighter colors. So, your all-white bathroom will be the perfect backdrop for some new black fixtures.

 As we said, you can easily change out the cabinet hardware. But don’t forget to put in new faucets, showerheads and taps, too. You can DIY those projects, as well, or bring in a contractor to swiftly and correctly get the job done.

 2. Give It a Fresh Coat of Paint

 Perhaps your  bathroom will still feel dated, even with new hardware. That could mean that the color palette in the space is old-fashioned. You can easily change that, of course, by whipping out a roller and a new pail of paint. What color should you choose for an instant refresh? The most popular bathroom hue of the moment is white. If you want something slightly less crisp, go for everyone’s second-favorite, grey.

 You can apply the paint to the walls, but don’t forget your bathroom cabinets, too. An old, outdated finish — oak cabinets with ornate door etchings, anyone? — can make your bathroom feel like a time capsule.

Instead, repaint your vanities or even to swap out your doors for something trendier. At the moment, that could range from shaker cabinets to flat, slab-style doors. This DIY project can modernize your bathroom design in the space of one weekend.

 3. ...Or Try Something Bold

 We’ve touched on the most popular bathroom colors, but there is another trend that could have you reaching for something far from neutral. Nowadays, many homeowners want to make a statement with their bathroom, as opposed to turning it into an airy sanctuary.

 So, rather than choosing light paint colors for the walls and cabinets, they go for something a lot bolder and brighter on the facades. Think deep saturated hues, such as teal or eggplant. A few coats of a color like that on your wall will instantly transform your bathroom — and make it a trendy enclave in your abode.

 If you need a little more coaxing, look at the rest of the fixtures in your bathroom. A darker, more saturated paint will make gold or brass fixtures pop. If you have light-colored cabinets or tile on the floor, the new paint color will only enhance them, too.

 4. Mix Up the Floors

 If you’re thinking of taking on a more involved bathroom renovation, then you may be considering swapping out your old floors for a new material. New tiling can do wonders for an outdated bathroom.

 Minimalist bathroom design will always be classic for homeowners who want a serene bathroom this summer. However, if you’re considering a more adventurous touch, seeking out mosaic tiling for your floors can add character to the space without overwhelming a well-planned design.

 5. Make Your Tub the Centerpiece

 Finally, here’s the biggest change you could make — but one that would make your bathroom incredibly trendy. If you’re ready for that full-on renovation we mentioned above, you might want to start swapping out your basic bathtub for something that can become a centerpiece.

 Not just any standalone tub will do, though. At the moment, the must-have tub style is the asymmetrical basin. So, one side of the tub will protrude out further than the other. It will give your bathroom a more modern feel instantaneously. And, of course, you’ll have an incredible place to relax and really enjoy your new bathroom.

 Update Your Bathroom This Summer Season

 This summer has inspired you to update your bathroom. You can make a few changes yourself, or you can bring in an expert to help you completely renovate your space. Either way, you can take on projects that will have your space looking fresh, new and completely on trend.  So, grab a paint brush or call your trusted contractor — it’s time to get started and see what you can do this summer.

Author

 Evelyn Long is a Baltimore-based writer and the editor-in-chief of Renovated. She publishes home decor advice and product roundups for readers in spaces both big and small.

How to Elevate Your Home Before Selling It

When you list your home on the real estate market, you envision finding a buyer in the shortest time possible. For your home to sell fast, you need to build your home’s value by increasing its appeal to potential buyers. Beasley & Henley Interior Design can help you visualize and bring to life a gorgeous space that both you and buyers will simply love. This article will highlight some key areas where updates and repairs will add value to your home.

Optimize Lighting

A well-lit house always has an inviting look. Leverage the natural light available to make the rooms seem brighter and larger. You can achieve this by keeping window treatments simple and using light fabrics like curtains. White and pale colors add to the brightness since they reflect light in the room.

When looking for light fixtures, select colors that will blend in well with the hardware in your home. For instance, a mixture of brass and gold fixtures doesn't mix well with cool wall colors compared to brushed nickel or chrome.

Every room should have 3 types of lighting;

▪        Overhead or Ambient Lighting

Ambient lighting illuminates the room in general. It gives the space a warm and deep aspect. Consider using recessed downlights in the ceiling or track lights in smaller rooms and chandeliers in vast rooms.

▪        Task-Specific Lighting

Task lighting is for practical purposes, to help you perform daily activities such as reading or cooking. By design, such lights should eliminate any shadows and illuminate fine details.

In the bedrooms, consider having desk lamps, table lamps, or floor lamps. You can always carry them with you to your new home.

In the kitchen, use high hats and pendant lights, and have lighting under the cabinets. Bathrooms can have updated wall-mounted

▪        Accent Lighting

Accent lights are to personalize the space and add style. When used well, accent lighting enhances the architectural details of your home.

Some examples you can use are wall lights, shelf lights, fireplace lights, or art and toe kick lighting.

Outside your house, ensure you have a well-lit path to make buyers feel welcome and safe. You can use individually lit pavers and downlights to prevent glare.

Ensure you fix light switches that are not functional and any electrical issues, as well.

Update Light Bulbs to LED

The ideal brightness for your home should be 100 watts for every 50 square feet. Consider LED bulbs as they last longer and consume 75% less energy than regular bulbs. They also remain cool for more extended periods, so they don't produce unnecessary heat like bathrooms, for example.

Replace all worn-out bulbs with energy-efficient ones and add more bulbs where necessary. Highlight this energy efficiency in your listing description to boost your home’s value by 1-3%.

Undertake Cosmetic Repairs

Some minor projects involving repairs and cost-effective updates will have your home looking too good to pass on! For example, if your windows appear dated or are faulty, hire professional window repair services. This starts with a simple search for window repairs near me and check out a few companies online. To establish credibility, read some customer reviews and ask them to refer you to happy customers. Before you meet up with the company to talk business, make sure they have an insurance plan and a valid license as well.

On average, the cost of window repair is $290. The cost can either go up or down, based on the type of windows you’d like and the amount of work you need.

Update Up the Bathrooms

Most buyers tend to give bathrooms much attention when checking out houses to buy. A good starting point for you to make the bathrooms look more presentable is the faucets shower fittings. Get rid of any old or rusty faucets or shower fittings and replace them with new models or designs.

Remove and replace tiles that have cracks and apply fresh grouting in discolored areas or have stained. Add towel bars or rings for convenience, and if there’s additional space, consider adding some storage units. Keep the colors neutral and select cabinets with no raised panels.

To update the style, consider adding natural stone on the countertops. If you have brass or metal doors, you can install frameless glass doors. Work with Beasley & Henley Interior Design to upgrade your bathrooms, kitchen, and more. Let our previous work inspire you!

Give Your Home a Fresh, New Post-Pandemic Look

 After spending more than a year cooped up in your home, you may be ready for a change. Some people get new hairdos. Others revamp their wardrobes. You may want to take advantage of the fact that you can finally invite contractors into your home and hire the Beasley & Henley interior design team for a home refresh. If that’s the case, consider these affordable ways you can give your home a fresh, post-pandemic look.

 Spruce Up Your Walls

One of the simplest and most inexpensive ways to give your home a new look is to paint the walls. While you can never go wrong with traditional paint schemes, such as white, gray, and beige, if you want to give your home some more pizazz, consider the top 2021 paint trends. Among the trends include vibrant yellows, serene greens, rich browns, velvety blues, and pastel pinks. Paint whole walls or select an accent wall. If you’re really feeling risky, paint the ceilings, too.

Personalize Your Walls

Using paint to spruce up your walls is one thing. Using wallpaper to personalize your walls is quite another. Wallpaper comes in hundreds — if not thousands — of designs. If you don’t find one you like, you can even have a paper customized. In fact, many homeowners prefer custom wallpaper as you can have it printed on demand so you basically never run out.

If you do go the wallpaper route, consider peel-and-stick options. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is much easier to apply than traditional wallpaper and it’s easily removable. This cannot be said for traditional wallpaper. Its easy removability is comforting for the novice wallpaper hanger as, if you mess up, you can take down a strip and reposition it without hassle. With a service like Spoonflower, you can even order a sample kit or test swatches if you’re not quite ready to commit.

Update Your Lighting

Dated or ho-hum lighting fixtures can really detract from the overall vibe of your home. Take a hard look at your light fixtures. Do they add anything of value, or do they say, “I don’t belong?” If they don’t add anything to the room, or if they take away from its style, consider ways you can change that. Replace standard pendants with custom fixtures. Swap out dated lamps with more modern pieces. Replace gaudy wall sconces with sleek, sophisticated pieces. Though seemingly minor, changing up your light fixtures can drastically improve the style of just about any room.

Create a Faux Built-In

There’s something about built-in shelves that give a room an automatic air of sophistication. Built-ins can be expensive, but the good news is that they’re easy to fake. Infarrantly Creative shares five creative ways to fake built-ins with bookshelves, china cabinets, armoires, and even two-by-fours. As a bonus, built-ins serve as a great way to maximize storage and showcase your most prized possessions.

Swap Out Old Hardware With New

Like lighting, hardware may be something that you don’t notice every day. However, the hardware you use can really add to the overall look and feel of a room. If you’re bored with your kitchen cabinets or your home’s door’s knobs just don’t do it for you anymore, shop around for unique or funky replacements. From glass knobs to leather pulls to stone handles, the sky’s the limit with hardware.

Refreshing the look and feel of your home may be a top priority as you emerge from the pandemic. If it is, consider the above five ways to refresh your home on a budget.

5 Easy Ways to Give Your Home a Makeover

We've all been spending more time at home, and the itch for a refreshed look and new space in our homes is hard to avoid. It might not be the right time to hire a professional designer to do a complete decor renovation, so you'll have to think of creative home makeover ideas to transform your home and breathe new life into your interior decor. Perhaps some ideas have even been on your wish list for a while.

 To get you started, we're going to share some of the best home makeover ideas to brighten your space.

 Declutter and Reorganize

 The best way to start a home makeover project is to declutter and reorganize everything before implementing new ideas. If your rooms have remained the same since you moved in, it's time to rethink the overall look. Start by getting rid of any clutter and unwanted stuff in every room. Cleaner and more organized spaces instill a positive mood and uplifting energy into your home. Don't forget the closets, storage area, and pantry.

 When it comes to reorganizing your space, follow these steps:

 ●       First, determine how exactly you want each space to serve you

●       Change the position of your furniture for a new look

●       Opt for creative transition kitchen ideas to achieve the desired look

●       Free your furniture of wrinkly slipcovers and rumpled throw pillows

●       Hide those tangled cords

●       Get display boxes, trays, or vases to group like-items together

●       Move decor items around to revamp your interior decor

●       Rearrange bookshelves and ornaments

 Opt for Small Upgrades That Make a Big Difference

 There are many minor home upgrades you can do yourself with a small budget. You'll be surprised to know the numerous options available that can make a huge difference in your home, and more importantly, how you feel about it every time you walk in the door. Here are some of the best small home upgrades to consider:

 ●       Use leftover paint to touch up any scuffed areas or repaint a room for a fresh look

●       Upgrade your kitchen and bathroom faucets to add functionality and style

●       Revamp your home with creative door upgrades and new door hardware

●       Get new cabinet handles and knobs for a completely new look

●       Get new decor-matching power outlets and light switch plates

●       Bump up your home's curb appeal - paint your front door and add some plants on the porch

●       Revamp your landscaping or garden with some new flowers or plants

●       Upgrade your lighting fixtures in the main rooms for an elegant look

●       Add some decorative mirrors to add dimension, texture, and light to any space

 Get Creative With Crafts

 If you have lots of free time to spare, you can get creative with DIY craft ideas to dress up your home. Make use of existing supplies you already have lying around in your home, or get some cheap supplies to create unique crafts that add some personality to your space. Here are some easy and budget-friendly craft projects you can do at home:

 ●       Use decorative paper to upgrade your lampshades or flower vases

●       Restyle your shelves with some colorful displays or classic collections

●       Decorate your vases and jars with some bohemian-inspired drawings

●       Hang a flower or plant wreath at the entryway or on the front door

●       Get some removable DIY wallpapers to create an accent wall

●       Install DIY pegboards to gain additional space and warm up your space

●       Paint a wooden pedestal and stack it with fresh greens or books

 Add Character to Plain Walls

 Your walls are probably the last thing you consider when it comes to a home makeover, except for the usual paintwork. How about adding some character to your walls in the bedroom, living room, or even the kitchen? Get started with these simple ideas:

 ●       Add an oversized artwork or photograph in a vibrant color to command attention

●       Create a gallery wall in simple and cohesive frames

●       Incorporate an accent wall with decorative accents for small spaces

●       Paint a mural on your wall to make a big impact

●       Add sculptural sconces in eye-catching designs to bring in light and style

●       Hang a personalized map and add pins to places you've visited

●       Use your walls for storage to show off your finery and create striking displays

●       Add a giant whiteboard or chalkboard in your home office, kitchen, or playroom - it's the perfect functional decor element

 Bring the Beauty of Nature Indoors

 Nature offers simple ways to beautify your home. Bring a selection of flowers and green plants indoors — make sure they're ideal for growing indoors. Green plants make an elegant centerpiece in any space, dining table, corner stand, or even home offices! Flowers and plants boost our well-being, instantly add color and pop to your space.

 Here are some ideas to get started:

 ●       If you're new to indoor gardening or green decor, start with edible and fragrant herbs in a tiered pot display in your kitchen

●       Try your hand at hydroponics and indoor cultivation units

●       Get some creative plant and flower displays

●       Use trailing plants to create a DIY indoor living wall

●       Cluster medium to large house plants to create an indoor jungle

●       Opt for air-purifying plants in your functional spaces and desks

Go Ahead and Give Your Home a New Look

 There are lots of ideas to transform your home without a messy overhaul or expensive remodeling. Check each room in your home and review the tips above to see what's suitable for your home makeover project. All these small updates go a long way into renewing the feel and look of your home.

Decorating With Pets: Guide to Pet-Friendly and Attractive Design

Pets are forever friends (and family), so it only makes sense that we want to design our homes to accommodate humans and pets alike. Between household hazards and sharp claws, having a pet-friendly decorated home can be a daunting task. Luckily, we have some tips for creating a beautiful, safe and resilient space for everyone.

 With a bit of planning, you can keep your home stress-free and comfortable for both you and your pet. There is no need for a massive remodel, either. Here are some decorating tips to get your home ready to take on your four-legged friends.

Design a Dog-Friendly Entryway

You’ve just spent the day in the garden, having fun with your dog outdoors. It's time to head back inside to cuddle on the sofa and watch a good movie. But the risk of mud, grass and other tracked-in messes can have you thinking twice.

 Think forward by making a small area in your entryway with a pet-proof box to keep by the door, filled with cleaning materials and dog treats or toys for distraction. It’s a great way to keep a muddy explosion off your new rug and create a routine for an adventurous dog.

Choose Flooring That Suits All Paws

If our homes aren’t equipped with the right flooring to take on the extra wear and tear of claws and accidents, it only gets more difficult to keep on top of cleaning routines. Property owners and tenants alike need decorators who understand which materials will stand up to abuse and provide peace of mind for both parties.

 Nails scratching your flooring and potty training setbacks are parts of the pet owner’s journey, meaning easy-to-clean flooring can be your biggest asset. Having tile, stone, or laminate flooring in high-traffic areas can help with avoiding the inevitable. This doesn’t mean your valued hardwood should be ditched, but make sure you have proper cleaning materials on hand to take care of any messes before they become permanent.

 Finally, rugs are a classic design element that can add coziness and flair to any room. When picking out rugs with a pet at home, make sure you stick with low-pile, jute and/or synthetic rugs that are known to be durable and easy-to-clean. Shag and high-pile rugs just might face their destruction a bit earlier than a dog- or cat-owner may like.

Place Breakables Out-of-Reach

Decorating your home with decor like ornaments, candles and frames, and your new chic coffee table sets a beautiful tone for both you and your visitors. However, pets aren’t constantly aware of what’s happening around them and they can get easily excited — putting all these beautiful design touches at risk.

 Placing decor items on shelving and having furniture that’s the right height and design can assist in keeping your nicknacks and prized possessions safe from wagging tails and leaping cats.

 Once you’re more confident in your pet’s obedience training, you can try moving fragile accents back to the coffee table. In the meantime, focus on decorating higher bookshelves and wall shelving first.

Select Resilient Fabrics for Seating

Keeping our pets off furniture can be a full-time job. What you don’t know when you’re not home can’t hurt, right? Well, not really. Furniture is a costly investment, and finding the right sofa for you and your pet can be a tough decision — but design, expense and durability don’t have to be trade-offs.

 Easy to clean, heavy-duty upholstery fabric on sofas can reduce wear and tear and allow your pet the freedom to get comfortable. Many cat owners have appreciated the velvet upholstery trend, since this luxurious-looking sofa material also has a tight weave that’s hard for cats to sink their claws into.

 Whatever fabrics you choose, clever usage of throw blankets and plenty of pet-specific bedding can also help you reduce the risk of pet damage in a snap. And as always, keep a lint roller handy to clean off any fur your buddy leaves behind.

Choose Pet Toys and Accessories That Blend With Your Design

Most pet owners are guilty of spoiling their dogs and cats — one survey found that 76% of young people are more likely to treat their pet than themselves. This might mean your space is filled with toys, beds and scratching posts that can add a little clutter to your overall look.

 You can spoil your pet while still creating a cohesive home design! Some creative cat owners use litter boxes and scratching posts disguised as household furniture, which can manage pet needs while complementing the rest of your design. A dedicated toy box or basket can provide a lovely accent and help contain balls, bones and other miscellaneous items.

 To start, set a color scheme and try to choose accessories and toys that match it. Your pet won’t mind, and your guests will be impressed that your eye for detail extends to your pet care as well.

Guide to Decorating With Pets

As we mentioned before, decorating your home to make it more pet-friendly can seem daunting at first! Using these ideas can turn your house into a comfortable home for the family and help your pet live harmoniously while making the best memories possible.

 Author

 Evelyn Long is a Baltimore-based writer and the editor-in-chief of Renovated. She publishes home decor advice and product roundups for readers in spaces both big and small.

6 Things To Look For In your Roofing Contractor Before Hiring Them

Photo by Matthew Harris on splash.com

1. Year's of experience

You probably would not take your sick child to a doctor who is fresh out of school or go to a salon that has two weeks of experience. So why should you choose a roofing contractor that does not have a long experience of doing high and good quality work?

Most homeowners choose a silicone roofing contractor depending on the amount price they are charged. It's always said you get what you pay for. If you select a roofing company that you can bargain for the price but can not give a list of satisfied customers, you are doomed since you will end up with a substandard installation.

Also, remember that it's so challenging to gather information about a contractor that easily closes the doors after a lawsuit. There are fly-by-night contractors who often disappear to avoid paying the damages they caused instead of repairing the roof and they reopen once again after months under a new name. You can prevent this type of situation by working with a company that has been in the roof repairing business for years and have a good reputation.

2. Look at the previous work.

Reputation is everything for businesses that provide any kind of service. The internet offers third-party reviews from clients who have used the services of a business in the past. Most people research products online before they make a purchase. What do other homeowners say about a specific roof contractor? Always ask yourself such questions before choosing any roofing contractor. You can ask the roofing company to give you a website to check information on their past jobs. Any company that has performed more than a thousand roof installations every year should be the one that has the best roof contractors.

3. Get financing agreements in writing.

There must be some agreements between you and your contractor, entailing how the contractor will do the job. The contracts will include things like the cost to be charged for the entire project, the period the project will be completed, and when you should make the payments. You should only make the payments when the job is over; this is because the roofing contractor will be careful to do all the things you wrote down in the agreement for you to pay them. The agreement must be adhered to by both parties.

4. License and insurance

Should a roofing contractor get a license and insurance? Absolutely yes. Roof contractors who are licensed will reduce your doubts about them. You can be very sure that they will manage to get your roofing job done well.  Licensed contractors know the industry well, have passed many tests, have gone through formal training, and offer contracts.

Licensed contractors also carry insurance. Insurance protects the contractors from injuries caused at a workplace. Also, it saves you as a homeowner, meaning that if the contractor gets injuries while making your roof, their company will provide the compensation and not you.

5. Roofing warranty

Before choosing a roofing contractor, you need to be sure if he is providing a warranty. There should be two warranties that accompany a roofing installation. A workmanship warranty covers against mistakes done when installing the roof and a manufacturer warranty covers against the deformities on the roof material.

6. Local physical office

A contractor must have an office with a complete address. You also need to check if they have an entire crew. If not, consider moving on.

Final word

Choose a professional contractor that will handle your roofing needs and satisfy you. You can do a quick interview for every contractor to make it easier for you to choose the best roof contractor.

Mother's Day 2021 Gift Guide

I recently had a conversation with a few husbands about Mother’s Day, during a casual dinner last Friday evening. I asked them what they were going to give their wives for Mother’s Day and it was met with a long pause and hesitation. Met with glossy vision, the three loving husbands couldn’t respond with an answer. Given their very obvious cues I immediately sprang into action. I proceeded to ask them what their wives favorite past times were, their favorite perfumes, their love of the nature or fashion. Within minutes the conversation and ideas were as fluid as a ballerina’s performance, comfortable and smooth.

With so many of us being busy mamas, I felt it was important to help out my friends and continue this important conversation with our readers. Mother’s day is such a special day for us to celebrate the moms in our lives. It’s a day to make our moms feel special and tell them how much they mean to us! I’m excited to share a few thoughtful Mother’s Day gifts that can really bring a smile to the mamas in your life, even when you may be short on time. It can be hard figuring out what to get to spoil your wife or mom. Whoever you’re celebrating this Mother’s Day, whether it be your own mom, stepmom, grandma, aunt or friend, make sure to take the time to let them know how much they mean to you! Trust me it won’t go unnoticed or forgotten, how much you thought about her gift. It will show your appreciation for her and all she does for you, your family and everyone else in her life. Don’t let the importance of the holiday intimidate you, a few ideas here and there is all you need to get started. No matter the budget she will love it, especially if it’s chosen from the heart. Here are a few of my personal gift ideas to get you started!

A Custom Handwriting Bracelet

If anyone knows your handwriting, it's mom. Immortalize it with this sweet bracelet that turns a handwritten phrase — "I Love You Mom," perhaps? — into a heartfelt statement piece that she can wear on her wrist.

Something For The Fashionista Mom

With summer closing in on us, what perfect way to say I love you than a fashionable woven hat or purse for those upcoming trips! @Katherine Kelly

Hand Painted Vases

Crafted from stoneware, these vases feature an assortment of lovely, painterly blooms to match the fresh bouquets you'll place in them.

Temperature Controlled Mug

If you think mugs are a lame gift, you haven't been introduced to the right one. Once she programs this app-controlled mug with her ideal sipping temperature, it'll keep her drink nice and warm!

Personalized Memory Keepsake Dish Set

Artist Melissa Reddick turns your cherished photos into a trio of tiny mementos.

Pink Mod iPad Holder & Accessories

Add a color pop to your loved one’s space. The chic and functional Pink Mod iPad and Cookbook Holder is the new countertop staple. Made of reclaimed wood and finished with a pink 100% plant-based, food-safe wax. The stand boasts a contrasting slat and shelf with lip on the stand’s angled surface to keep your page.

Heat Shaped Shower Steamer Set
Mom can enjoy her showers with these invigorating aromatherapy scent of lavender essential oil.

Cozy Fireside Gift Box: Throw & Candle Gift Set

Exquisitely Herringbone Peshtemal Throw; handmade: This luxe decor piece is the undisputed star of our home gifting collection. Painted Ceramic Candles; by L’or de Seraphine: Uniquely designed with patterns and color palettes of internationally awarded design houses; these candles lend warmth & style to the ambiance and design of your home.

The Blissy Dream Set

The ultimate beauty sleep set which includes the world's best silk pillowcase, sleep mask, scrunchie and skinny scrunchie! Blissy silk products are handmade and crafted from high quality 22-Momme 100% Pure Mulberry Silk.

Dream Personalized Ballerina Flat

The high vamp, knotted bow, grosgrain trim, and low stacked heel make Mansur Gavriel's Dream Ballerina an instantly recognizable take on this timeless silhouette. Crafted from lambskin leather with a glove-like fit that molds to your foot, it combines the comfort of a slipper with the lasting quality of intentional design.

Picnic Travel Croquet Set

For the mom that loves to stay active and play games it’s perfect for backyard picnics or trips to the beach, this croquet set - designed by Vera in collaboration with Anthropologie - is a fun outdoor game to enjoy with friends and family.

Baccarat Lucky Butterfly

Knit PJ’s From Lilly

Personalized Engraved Wooden Spoon

Rifle Paper Co. AirPods Case

Fun Flips For Spring 2021: How to Revamp a Boring Room

Spring is in the air, which means you’re developing that familiar annual warm-weather itch to add a new vibe to your living space. Simply put, you’re ready to shake off those winter blues and start the year anew—and we don’t blame you. Unfortunately, your bank account is telling you “no” to an all-out redesign of your living room or bedroom this spring. And so is your busy schedule.

 Don’t worry—you can still give these rooms the new energy they need without breaking the bank. Here’s a rundown on a few effortless and cost-effective ways to revamp that boring room in your home this season.

 Rearrange the Room’s Furniture, or Add New Furniture

 Moving your living room’s or bedroom’s existing furniture around can instantly give it a completely different look. For instance, in your living room, you can flip-flop the couch and the entertainment center. Meanwhile, in the bedroom, consider moving the bed to the wall opposite the wall it currently rests against. You can also move your dressers to walls they’ve never been situated against before.

Alternatively, if you want a totally new look, you can add trendy affordable furniture to your space. A new ottoman, recliner, or even TV stand can work wonders for revamping your home’s look this spring. And when you pair new accents with some other DIY improvements, your space can feel fresh and give you the change you were craving.

 Add Color to Your Walls

 Yes, painting does take time and a little money. However, a paint job in any room of your home can dramatically change your room’s appearance.

 Not sure where to start? Go to your local paint store and pick out some of your favorite potential colors for your target room. Then, tape these samples to your walls. Over the next several days, decide which color may look the best in that space at each time of the day. Afterward, it’s time to break out the brushes and rollers for an epic painting party.

If you’re not crazy about painting your walls, you can easily add colorful removable wallpaper to them instead. The perfect floral or ocean pattern, for example, can quickly revive your space in a way that plain paint simply can’t. And when you want a change again, you can simply take it down and replace it with another patterned wallpaper.

Change Up the Pillows or Rugs

 Tired of your couch or bed’s same old dreary look? Spruce things up simply by adding colorful throw pillows to your couch—ones that will make your sofa or bed pop. Pillows that feature different colors or designs than you’re used to will immediately become your room’s focal point and make it stand out for all the right reasons.

 Likewise, consider replacing that old rug in the bedroom or living room with a brand-new one that is opposite in color. For instance, if your current rug is navy blue, why not try a yellow? Or, if a white rug currently adorns your floor, add a black rug to create a dramatic effect. Something as simple as a new rug can take your room’s look to a whole new level of chic in a matter of minutes.

Add New Art to Your Walls 

If you’re sick of locking eyes with the same artwork on your walls (that is, when you’re not staring at your smartphone), give your eyes something fresh to look at this spring, especially considering we’re all spending a lot more time at home these days.

For instance, consider hanging up today’s popular Gonsalves original paintings or even one of Charles Pabst paintings to your walls to add a captivating, surreal, dream-like, and awe-inspiring vibe to your living space. Also, don’t forget to add new, trendy lighting to the area. This will further draw attention to your new artwork while simultaneously serving as a work of art, too.

Switch Up Your Decor

 To add a new touch to your home’s rooms this spring, consider mixing and matching your existing decor. For instance, if you typically display a certain picture near a vase in your living room, why not move these two pieces to your bedroom? Then, move a couple of your favorite souvenirs from the bedroom to the living room. Don’t forget the power of plants, either!

 Switching up your picture frames is yet another way to bring a different look to each room in your home. You can do the same with your favorite paintings or wall art. You can’t ask for a better way to make every room feel brand new while also bringing your unique personality to each room.

 Spruce Up Your Favorite Rooms at Home with Ease This Spring!

As you tackle some spring cleaning projects this month, be sure to add freshening up your favorite room to the list. Fortunately, with the above strategies, you can quickly and easily bring your room back to life. Start incorporating these ideas into your space today to give your room the perfect makeover—one you’ll soak up in the days, weeks, and months ahead.

Carolyn Mitchell is a freelance writer and content strategist with a passion for home décor and maintenance. She can often be found re-painting and updating the furnishings in her home, and she is also a dedicated cat mom to two adorable kitties.

Top 5 Ways to Brighten Up Your Interiors in 2021

With a new year comes all-new ideas for home decor. If you’re excited for the warmer weather to come around, you might be itching to brighten up your interior this year, especially after the pandemic that might have kept you inside for large portions of 2020.

 You want your home to be a fun, exciting place, and there are so many ways you can accomplish that. Everyone’s style is different and unique, and while you might find all of these tips helpful, you may also encounter one or two that make a huge difference in your home. It’s all about finding what works best for you and what makes you feel more at home in your space.

 From letting a bit more light into your space to bringing in natural elements, brightening up your home can be a unique, creative process no matter your style or budget. Whether you fancy yourself more of a bohemian soul or a sleek, sophisticated modernist, these tips are universal.

 Here are the top five ways you can brighten up your interior this year.

1. Open Up the Windows

This one is quite obvious, but it’s still important to mention. One of the simplest ways to brighten up your interior is to open the windows and let in as much natural light as possible.

 If you happen to have big windows, this can be a simple matter of rearranging furniture to let the light shine in. However, if you happen to have darker curtains or smaller windows, using light or transparent curtains can be a game-changer. Sheer fabrics can let in the light even when you want privacy.

 If your room happens to not have windows at all, you’re not doomed to darkness. Using artificial light from many angles can truly make a huge difference. Soft and warm light bulbs can help mimic the comfort of sunlight in a dark space. Choosing an array of overhead and table lamps can help fill in corners and create a cozy feel — especially in a quiet office space or sitting room.

2. Get House Plants

House plants are all the rage, and for good reason. Not only can house plants brighten up a space, but they can actually contribute to positive moods and mental health, not to mention air quality.

 Having plants around can lower anxiety and stress levels and make your home feel more uplifted and positive. Spring is a great time to bring some new plants into your home, especially with that newfound natural light from your open windows.

3. Use Earth Tones

Natural light has a stronger impact on an interior that’s decorated to embrace nature. While every earth tone is different, using earth tones in your decor can make a space feel more natural and grounded. This creates a calming, serene atmosphere that most people want in their homes, especially if you happen to be spending a lot of time there.

 From sage greens to burnt orange and even simple off-white hues, earthy colors can relax you and make your home feel more inviting. These hues work well with natural light and houseplants to make any interior feel airier and healthier in the year ahead.

4. Use Large Mirrors

Mirrors are the interior decorator’s best secret trick. Not only can they expand a room and make a space seem larger and more open, but they also reflect light, which can brighten up a room without putting in another light source.

 The most ideal placement for mirrors is across from a window, where light can reflect off the mirror and around the interior. While the rules of feng shui advise against facing a mirror directly towards a door, a perpendicular pattern can actually work even better, as it eliminates glare and too much direct light on sunny days.

5. Add Pops of Pastel Colors

If you’re simply looking for the best ways to give yourself a bit of lightness in your actual accessories and decor, look no further than the occasional pastel. Pastels are actually sophisticated and sleek when you use them the right way.

 Pick a few tones that complement your existing decor and space out some small touches accordingly. Find some colors that make you happy and add just enough to uplift the room — that way, you can go for a subtle yet eye-catching flair. Pink is a popular color for Spring 2021, but soft yellow, robin’s egg blue and mint green can also mix well with more neutral design choices.

Brightening Up Your Space in 2021

While the past year has been somewhat of a whirlwind, your home should be a bright, cheerful, and comfortable place of rest and happiness. Whether you choose to bring in more earth tones, add pops of pastels, or get a houseplant or two, you can find the solutions that work best for your home and your personal style.

 2021 is looking brighter, and with a little interior flair, your home can, too. Whether you’re bohemian, modern, or minimalist, there’s always a way to bring a bit more sunshine into your home. Which of these tips are you excited to try?

Author

 Evelyn Long is a Baltimore-based writer and the editor-in-chief of Renovated. She publishes home decor advice and product roundups for readers in spaces both big and small.

How to Stash Your Most Fabulous Shoes With These Creative Tips

No matter who you are, your shoes are meant to serve a few purposes. Sure, they’re all about functionality, but they’re also fabulous outfit additions that top off any look — or, more accurately, give it a foundation.

 Whether you have the simple basics or you love to go all-out with a fabulous collection of footwear, you need somewhere great to store them. While some people are blessed with an expansive closet, others aren’t quite as lucky. But, regardless of the surface area you’re working with, you don’t have to toss out any of your shoes. In fact, there are so many creative and inventive ways to store your shoes that you don’t have to worry about a thing. Here are just a few ideas.

1. Take Advantage of Vertical Displays

 One of the best ways to add additional storage to any situation is to use the vertical space available rather than relying only on the horizontal space. Using hanging shoe racks or vertical shelving to stash out-of-season shoes can be a total game-changer.

 People often don’t think to make use of that kind of space, but you never know what it might bring. This organization tip can help you visually sort through your shoe collection so you never forget about that one pair of pumps that would perfectly complete your outfit.

2. Make Your Bedroom Work for You

 This tip requires that you take a look at your bedroom and your storage and see what unique qualities it has to offer. Walk-in closets will allow you a little more freedom in seeking out decorative shelving and displays for stellar shoes. Regular closets may require more creativity, with aforementioned vertical shoe organizers or bins for out-of-season shoes helping you out. If your bedroom is relatively small, you may want to kiss the dedicated bedroom goodbye and use more of its space for smart storage. Can you replace your bookshelf with cube storage that lets you sort shoes in decorative bins? Does underbed storage work to hold sneakers and flats?

 You may also wish to advance into uncharted corners. Many bedrooms may have free space here for a little decoration. After all, your shoes are gorgeous — why not display some of them out in the open? Installing corner wall shelves to display your fanciest shoes can provide extra storage while adding visual appeal.

3. Take Your Shoes Out of the Bedroom

 Why limit yourself? While American bedroom closets tend to store most of the shoes, that isn’t a hard-and-fast rule for home designers. Another great idea for storing shoes is to get creative with where they go.

 Storing your shoes in your entryway or even tucking them somewhere creative, like under the stairs, can clear up so much room and make things convenient for you to simply slip them on and walk out the door. Many homeowners even find dedicated shoe organizing racks, perhaps with a bench for seating, to be the perfect functional solution.

4. Disguise Your Shoes as Something Else

 Maybe you’ve flat out exhausted your shelving options. No worries — one clever way to store your shoes is to hide the fact that you’re storing them at all. Some renters and homeowners have stashed shoe collections in plush ottomans, creating foot rests or accessory seating that match the home design while freeing up space. You can also use fabric wall hangers to hold up shoes, then cover this display with a curtain so it doesn’t visually clutter the living space. Disguising your shoe displays can help you find room for fashion without sacrificing your carefully designed home. The combination of function and beauty makes these solutions perfect for the homeowner who doesn’t want to waste any item in their design plans.

Creative Ways to Stash Your Shoe Collection

 While each person has their own footwear needs, everybody has to have a place to put their shoes at the end of the day. So why not do it with style and efficiency?  We don’t invest in stylish footwear just to let it all sit in a pile in the back of our closets. Whether you choose to go for shelving or stacking, vertical or entryway displays, there are so many ways to store your fabulous footwear creatively.

Author

 Evelyn Long is a Baltimore-based writer and the editor-in-chief of Renovated. She publishes home decor advice and product roundups for readers in spaces both big and small.