Make the most of limited linen closet space
by Erica Peterson While linen closets offer welcome storage, keeping items organized is essential for making them functional. “Most linen closets tend to be a catch-all for everything,” said Ann Faber, a professional organizer with FAB Simple Spaces in Bath. In addition to towels and sheets, they often contain medicine and first aid kits, extra cleaning supplies and […]
Multiple patterns help create smart, styled living spaces
by Judy Stringer People tend to fear printed home décor and patterns in much the same way they fear bold colors, said Julie Pawlowski, owner of Hudson-based MOD: Matter of Design. In an attempt to avoid misusing patterns, many homeowners opt to use them sparing or not at all. That, the designer said, is a mistake. “Patterns add […]
Neutral palettes still favored for interior paint refresh
by Laura Straub A fresh coat of paint is an inexpensive, simple way to refresh a room and set a new tone for your space. With countless colors and techniques to choose from, current trends are a great starting point when it comes to selecting a new style. According to Bob Manashian, administrator at Advanced Painting Ohio in Broadview Heights, gray palettes have been red hot for the past few […]
Kitchen remodel must-haves offer both style and practicality
by Jacqueline Mitchell Remodeling the kitchen involves striking a balance between function and design to create both an optimal cooking space and a beautiful setting to gather and entertain. Some of the latest, most-coveted updates, such as quartz countertops, drawer cabinets and beverage stations, fulfill both of those needs with their functionality and style. Local […]
Personalizing a rental space can be inexpensive, even easy
by Jacqueline Mitchell Personalizing a rental space without putting holes in the walls or your pocketbook takes some creativity. However, there are temporary and inexpensive ways to give a rental some flair. Gillian Andrew, interior designer at Garth Andrew Company in Bath, suggested adding personalized artwork or photos to unexpected items. “Today, there are several […]
Natural materials a growing choice for kitchen countertops
by Erica Peterson A trend among buyers of kitchen countertops is to bring the outside in through the use of natural stone and wood. One popular pick is quartzite, a natural rock not to be confused with manmade quartz. “Quartzite is a real hot product right now,” said James Justice, owner of Architectural Justice in […]
Decor, planning bring first-floor master suites into bloom
by Judy Stringer Main-floor master suites are a growing trend in new-home construction and for good reason. As the American population ages, more home buyers want the option of remaining in their homes as long as possible. Not having to scale the stairs daily is a big part of aging in place. And experts say […]
Make floor choice based on personal taste, not trends
by Patty Reiman Flooring choices in new and remodeled homes have moved away from carpet toward more hardwoods and tile, but this region of the country has yet to catch up. “We are still putting in more carpet than hard-surface flooring, such as ceramic, vinyl or hardwood. The Midwest is slow to adapt,” said Larry […]
Wallpaper is back, with bold patterns for the 21st century
by Kathleen Steele Gaivin Wallpaper was all the rage in the late 19th century and through the 20th. From flowers to geometric shapes, wallpaper could be found in nearly every room. It began to fall out of vogue in the last few decades, but that is changing, with customers seeking bold prints and patterns and […]
Make home improvements pay off when selling your house
by John Benson Congratulations, you’ve decided to sell your home. As hard as that decision may have been, you’re faced with a dozen more, including what upgrades will help you find a buyer. “Kitchens and bathrooms are always the top two things that most people gravitate toward,” said Stouffer Realty Vice President Jim Fox, a […]