Preparing Your Home for the Holiday Season: Essential Tips from Your Homebuilder

Preparing Your Home for the Holiday Season: Essential Tips from Your Homebuilder

As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing more exciting than preparing your home to welcome family, friends, and the festive spirit. Whether you’re planning to host large gatherings, intimate dinners, or simply enjoy the cozy ambiance with your loved ones, it’s essential to ensure your home is ready for the hustle and bustle of the season. As your homebuilder, we understand the intricacies of your home and want to share some expert advice to help you prepare your living space for the holidays. From décor tips to maintenance checks, these suggestions will ensure your home is both beautiful and functional during the most wonderful time of the year.

Start with a Deep Clean

Before you bring out the holiday decorations, it’s crucial to give your home a thorough cleaning. This not only helps to create a fresh canvas for your festive décor but also ensures that your home is comfortable and welcoming for guests.

  • Dust and Declutter: Start by dusting all surfaces, including shelves, baseboards, and ceiling fans. Declutter countertops, tables, and other surfaces to make room for holiday décor and avoid a crowded look.
  • Carpet and Floor Cleaning: Pay special attention to your carpets and floors. Consider professional cleaning, especially if you have pets or children. Clean floors not only look better but also create a healthier environment for your family and guests.
  • Windows and Mirrors: Clean your windows and mirrors to let in as much natural light as possible. Sparkling clean windows make a big difference in brightening up your space, especially during the shorter days of winter.

Check Your HVAC System

The holiday season often means more time spent indoors, so it’s essential to ensure your heating system is functioning efficiently. No one wants to deal with a sudden breakdown in the middle of a festive gathering!

  • Change Filters: Replace your HVAC filters to improve air quality and system efficiency. Dirty filters can restrict airflow, making your system work harder and increasing energy costs.
  • Schedule a Maintenance Check: If you haven’t done so already, schedule a professional inspection of your HVAC system. A technician can identify any issues before they become major problems, ensuring your home stays warm and comfortable.
  • Check the Thermostat: Test your thermostat to make sure it’s working correctly. Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat if you don’t already have one, as it can help you maintain a comfortable temperature while saving on energy costs.

Optimize Your Heating and Ventilation

In the desert, where homes often rely on alternative heating sources, ensuring your heating and ventilation systems are in top shape is essential for maintaining comfort during the cooler holiday months.

  • Inspect Your Heating System: Even if you don’t use it often, now is the time to check your heating system. Whether you have a furnace, heat pump, or another type of system, schedule a professional inspection to ensure it’s functioning efficiently and safely. This can prevent unexpected breakdowns during a cold snap.
  • Check Ventilation and Airflow: Proper ventilation is crucial in desert homes, especially when using heating systems. Make sure vents and registers are clean and unobstructed to allow for optimal airflow. This not only helps in maintaining a comfortable temperature but also in improving indoor air quality.
  • Ceiling Fans and Reversible Settings: Ceiling fans aren’t just for cooling. During the cooler months, switch your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed. This helps to circulate warm air that rises to the ceiling back down into the living spaces, making your home feel warmer without cranking up the heat.
  • Portable Heaters: If your home lacks central heating, consider investing in energy-efficient portable heaters for the areas you use most. Ensure they have safety features such as automatic shut-off to prevent overheating or fire hazards.

Enhance Your Home’s Exterior

First impressions matter, especially during the holiday season when guests are arriving for gatherings. Enhancing your home’s exterior not only adds to its curb appeal but also creates a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.

  • Outdoor Lighting: Consider adding or updating outdoor lighting to illuminate walkways, driveways, and entryways. This not only enhances safety but also adds a warm, inviting glow to your home. For a festive touch, incorporate holiday lights along rooflines, trees, and shrubs.
  • Inspect and Repair: Take a walk around your property to inspect the exterior. Look for any areas that need repair, such as loose shingles, cracked walkways, or damaged gutters. Addressing these issues now can prevent larger problems later on, especially in regions prone to snow and ice.
  • Seasonal Décor: Embrace the holiday spirit by adding seasonal decorations to your front porch and yard. Wreaths, garlands, and festive door mats are simple ways to make your home feel more welcoming. Just be sure to secure decorations properly, so they don’t become hazards during winter weather.

Focus on the Kitchen

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, especially during the holidays when cooking and baking are in full swing. Preparing your kitchen for the season ensures that you’re ready to handle all the culinary demands of the holidays.

  • Appliance Check: Test your kitchen appliances, including the oven, stove, and refrigerator, to ensure they’re in good working order. If any appliances are malfunctioning or outdated, consider having them repaired or replaced before the holiday cooking begins.
  • Organize the Pantry: Clean out and organize your pantry to make room for holiday ingredients. Dispose of expired items and take inventory of your staples, so you know what to stock up on before the holiday rush.
  • Prep for Large Gatherings: If you’re hosting large gatherings, consider setting up a beverage station or buffet area to keep traffic flowing smoothly in the kitchen. Additionally, make sure you have enough seating and dining space for all your guests.

Create a Cozy Atmosphere

The holidays are all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home. Small touches can go a long way in making your home feel cozy and festive.

  • Layer Textures: Add warmth to your living spaces by layering textures. Throw blankets, plush pillows, and soft area rugs can instantly make a room feel cozier. Opt for seasonal colors and patterns to enhance the holiday vibe.
  • Scented Candles: Incorporate scented candles with fragrances like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla to fill your home with the aromas of the season. Candles add both ambiance and a welcoming scent to your home.
  • Music and Lighting: Set the mood with soft lighting and holiday music. Dimmer switches, fairy lights, and table lamps can create a warm glow in your living spaces. Play your favorite holiday tunes to enhance the festive atmosphere.

Prepare for Overnight Guests

If you’re expecting overnight guests during the holidays, take some time to prepare your guest rooms to ensure they’re comfortable and welcoming.

  • Fresh Linens: Make sure the guest bed is made up with fresh linens, and provide extra blankets and pillows for added comfort. Consider adding a few small touches, like a water carafe or fresh flowers, to make your guests feel at home.
  • Bathroom Stock: Stock the guest bathroom with essentials like towels, toiletries, and a hairdryer. Make sure there’s plenty of toilet paper and hand soap available, and consider adding a few festive touches, like holiday-scented hand soap or a seasonal hand towel.
  • Privacy Considerations: Ensure your guests have the privacy they need by providing curtains or blinds that fully close. Additionally, clear out some closet or drawer space so they can unpack and feel more settled during their stay.

Prepare for Dry and Cool Desert Conditions

In desert regions, the holiday season often brings cooler temperatures, but it’s important to prepare your home for the unique challenges of this environment.

  • Check for Drafts: Even in the desert, nights can get quite cool during the winter months. Inspect your windows and doors for drafts, and consider adding weatherstripping or caulking to seal any gaps. This will help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and improve energy efficiency.
  • Maintain Your Landscaping: Desert plants and landscaping can be particularly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Ensure your irrigation system is adjusted for cooler weather, and consider covering delicate plants with frost cloth on particularly cold nights. Mulching around plants can also help retain moisture and protect roots from the chill.
  • Air Quality Control: With the dry desert air, indoor humidity levels can drop significantly during the cooler months, leading to dry skin, respiratory issues, and static electricity. Consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, particularly in bedrooms and living areas where you spend the most time.
  • Check Your Roof and Exterior: Desert homes often have flat or slightly pitched roofs, which can be susceptible to leaks during rare but intense winter rainstorms. Inspect your roof and exterior walls for any cracks or areas where water could potentially seep in. Addressing these issues early can prevent water damage and mold growth.
  • Solar Power Considerations: If your home is equipped with solar panels, winter is an excellent time to check their efficiency. Clean any dust or debris that may have accumulated, and ensure the panels are positioned optimally to capture the lower-angle sunlight of the season.

Preparing your home for the holiday season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking the time to clean, organize, and address any maintenance needs, you can ensure your home is ready to welcome the festive season with open arms. As your homebuilder, we’re here to help you make the most of your home during this special time of year. We hope these tips inspire you to create a warm, inviting, and safe environment for your family and guests. Here’s to a joyful and stress-free holiday season in your beautifully prepared home!

Tips for a Happier Thanksgiving!

Preparing for a wonderful Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s a simplified guide focusing on the essentials:

Grocery Shopping and Food Prep

  • Fresh Ingredients: Buy your fresh ingredients today to ensure everything is as fresh as possible.
  • Preparation: Start your food prep today. Things like pie crusts and some side dishes can be prepared ahead and stored, saving you time on the big day.

Home Preparation

  • Cleaning: A clean and tidy home sets the perfect stage for a festive gathering. Focus on the dining and living areas, where guests will spend most of their time.
  • Decorations: Embrace the spirit of the season with Thanksgiving-themed decorations like autumn leaves, pumpkins, and candles.
  • Table Setting: Set your table the night before. A well-laid table with a beautiful centerpiece, nice dinnerware, and a festive tablecloth can make a big difference.

On the Day

  • Cooking Schedule: Have a clear cooking schedule. Start with dishes that take the longest to cook, and remember to warm up pre-prepared items.
  • Entertainment: Think about simple activities or games to entertain your guests. This could be anything from board games to a casual walk outside.
  • Relax and Enjoy: It’s important to take a moment to relax and enjoy the festivities. After all, Thanksgiving is about spending quality time with loved ones.

Gratitude and Tradition

  • Sharing Gratitude: A beautiful tradition is to have each guest share something they’re thankful for, fostering a sense of gratitude and togetherness.
  • Upholding Traditions: Whether it’s a special family recipe, a toast, or a game, traditions add a personal touch to your Thanksgiving.

Post-Celebration

  • Efficient Cleanup: Make cleanup easier by enlisting help from your guests. Many hands make light work!
  • Plan for Leftovers: Have containers ready for leftovers. Not only does this help with storage, but guests often appreciate taking a bit of the feast home with them.

Remember, the essence of a great Thanksgiving is not just the food or the perfect table setting, but the joy and gratitude shared with family and friends. By focusing on these key aspects, you can ensure a delightful and memorable Thanksgiving celebration.

Is Your Home Holiday Ready?

As the holiday season approaches, the air is filled with festive cheer and the anticipation of joyful gatherings. Here, we’ll explore tips to ensure your Fulton home is dressed in its holiday best and ready to embrace the seasonal spirit.

  1. Embrace a Warm and Welcoming Entryway

Start the holiday magic right at your doorstep! Adorn your front door with a lush, seasonal wreath, and line the entryway with potted poinsettias or evergreens. A festive doormat and twinkling lights around the doorway will make your Fulton Home feel welcoming.

  1. Design Around Your Home’s Features

Fulton Homes are renowned for their thoughtful designs and architectural features. Accentuate these by integrating them into your holiday decor. For instance, if you have a visible staircase, drape it with garland and bows, and if you have a fireplace, don’t forget the stockings and a festive mantel display.

  1. Festive Centerpieces and Table Settings

Create a memorable dining experience by designing a holiday-themed table setting. Use holiday colors, candles, and seasonal flora to craft a centerpiece that captures attention. Don’t forget the holiday crackers and personalized place settings for a thoughtful touch!

  1. Layer with Textiles

Introduce warmth and texture by layering rooms with holiday-themed textiles. Think cozy throw blankets, decorative pillows, and area rugs in festive patterns and colors. These can instantly transform your living spaces and make them feel holiday-ready.

  1. Strategic Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. String lights, lanterns, and candles create a cozy, festive atmosphere throughout your Fulton home. Consider placing battery-operated candles on window sills and using fairy lights to highlight artwork or architectural features.

  1. Create a Festive Fragrance

Aromatic scents such as cinnamon, pine, and peppermint can transport your senses to a holiday wonderland. Use scented candles, essential oil diffusers, or simmer pots to infuse your home with the delightful aromas of the season.

  1. Personalized Decorations

Introduce a personal touch by incorporating handmade or personalized decorations. Whether it’s ornaments crafted by the kids or a family photo displayed in a festive frame, personalized touches make your holiday decor feel unique and sentimental.

  1. Eco-friendly Approach

In the spirit of giving, consider an eco-friendly approach to decorating. Opt for reusable decorations, energy-efficient lighting, and locally sourced materials. This not only benefits the environment but also adds a thoughtful dimension to your holiday celebration.

  1. Create Themed Zones

Make each room a unique holiday experience by creating themed zones. For instance, have a traditional Christmas setting in the living room, a winter wonderland in the dining area, and a playful, colorful theme in the kids’ rooms.

  1. Safety First

As you adorn your Fulton home with festive flair, don’t forget safety precautions. Ensure that your decorations are fire-resistant, secure loose cords, and keep fragile ornaments out of reach from pets and children.

Getting your Fulton home holiday-ready is an exciting endeavor that combines creativity, tradition, and a sprinkle of magic. By incorporating these tips, you can transform your home into a festive sanctuary that’s warm, inviting, and brimming with holiday cheer. Enjoy the process, and here’s to a holiday season filled with joy and wonderful memories in your Fulton home!

The Benefits of a Neutral Kitchen

In the ever-evolving world of home design and decor, neutral kitchens continue to reign supreme. From the rich tones of natural wood to the clean freshness of white and gray palettes, a neutral kitchen presents a canvas rich with possibility. Here at Fulton Homes, we are advocates for timeless, neutral kitchens that not only enhance the visual appeal of your home but offer numerous other benefits. Let’s delve into the multi-faceted advantages of opting for a neutral kitchen.

Timeless Appeal

Neutral kitchens are revered for their ageless beauty. By choosing neutral colors such as beige, white, or gray, homeowners create a timeless backdrop that stands resilient to changing trends. This foundational palette offers the flexibility to update your accents and decor without a complete kitchen overhaul as styles evolve over time.

Enhancing Space Perception

The neutral palette’s magic lies in its ability to create an illusion of a more expansive space. Light hues reflect natural light, fostering a brighter, airier atmosphere. Whether you have a spacious kitchen or a more intimate setting, a neutral palette will accentuate the dimensions beautifully, giving a more open and inviting feel to your culinary space.

Versatility in Styling

One of the standout features of a neutral kitchen is its compatibility with a variety of design elements. Be it contemporary, classic, or rustic, neutral hues gracefully complement different styles, offering a rich ground for experimentation. You can easily alter the ambiance with the season’s change, replacing summer’s fresh florals with autumn’s warm copper accents, all while retaining the kitchen’s neutral foundation.

Increased Home Value

Real estate experts often point out that neutral designs are a safe bet when it comes to increasing a home’s market value. Prospective buyers are generally drawn to neutral kitchens as they can easily envision themselves customizing the space to suit their preferences. Thus, a neutral kitchen could potentially be a lucrative investment in the long run, facilitating a quicker and more profitable home sale.

Easy Maintenance

Neutral kitchens are not just about aesthetics; they come with the practical benefit of easy maintenance. Lighter hues gracefully conceal minor stains and scratches, ensuring that your kitchen retains its pristine look with minimal effort. Moreover, neutral palettes tend to encourage a peaceful and organized space, helping to maintain a clean and inviting kitchen environment.

A Sanctuary of Calm

A kitchen drenched in neutral tones tends to evoke a calming effect, providing a serene sanctuary amidst the bustling dynamics of daily life. The neutral hues create a harmonious visual flow, encouraging a relaxed and peaceful culinary experience.

Personalization and Adaptability

Lastly, a neutral kitchen serves as a blank canvas, offering endless opportunities for personalization. It’s a space where you can express your changing tastes and preferences over time, adapting to different life stages gracefully, and growing with you and your family.

At Fulton Homes, we are dedicated to crafting kitchens that stand as the heart of your home – a space that is not only visually appealing but also harmoniously integrates functionality with style.

Decorate Your Home Like a Model Home: Part II

Having covered the foundational aspects of decorating your home to emulate the elegance of a model home, let’s delve into some nuanced touches that can elevate your home even further.

1. Personalize Your Space:

While model homes are generic for broad appeal, your home should tell your story. Integrate personal elements like family heirlooms, travel memorabilia, or custom-made items to make your space uniquely yours.

2. Upgrade Hardware and Fixtures:

Swapping out basic knobs and handles with stylish alternatives can instantly give your home a more upscale look. The same goes for light fixtures and faucets.

3. Invest in Quality, Not Quantity:

Instead of filling your rooms with many items, consider investing in fewer, high-quality pieces. This might mean a solid wood coffee table instead of a particleboard one or a hand-knotted rug over a machine-made counterpart.

4. Play with Height and Scale:

Use tall plants or decorative items to draw the eye upward, especially in rooms with high ceilings. Conversely, in smaller rooms, be mindful of scale to ensure the space isn’t overwhelmed.

5. Window Treatments:

Upgrade your curtains or blinds. Drapes that flow from the ceiling to the floor can make your room feel taller, and quality blinds can control the room’s natural lighting.

6. Pay Attention to Outdoor Spaces:

Your home’s exterior and outdoor spaces are as important as the interior. Add cozy seating areas, maintain a tidy yard, and consider features like a fire pit or water feature.

7. Scent-sational Atmosphere:

Engage all the senses. The scent is a powerful mood-setter, so consider diffusers, candles, or potpourri that evoke tranquility and warmth.

While model homes are designed to attract a wide audience, the ultimate goal for your home should be a reflection of your personal style, combined with the timeless appeal of a well-decorated space. Using these guidelines as a foundation, you can craft a home that not only looks like a model home but feels uniquely yours. With a touch of planning and creativity, every corner of your Fulton home can mirror the elegance and comfort of a model home.

Bringing the Great Outdoors Inside: Transform Your Living Space with Natural Elements

Timber Cove Model

Imagine stepping into your home and being greeted by the fresh aroma of a forest, the sight of lively greenery, and the peaceful sense of being amidst nature. While we all can’t have homes with extensive gardens or woodland backyards, there’s a way to experience nature’s charm right within your living spaces. By bringing the outdoors inside, we can transform our homes into rejuvenating sanctuaries that inspire calmness, happiness, and productivity.

Here’s how you can infuse natural elements into your indoor décor and create an organic oasis in the heart of your home.

1. Indoor Plants: A Breath of Fresh Air

Indoor plants are the simplest, yet most effective way to bring nature into your home. Not only do they enhance aesthetics, but they also purify the air and promote well-being. Succulents or air plants make great choices for those who lack a green thumb, as they require minimal care.

2. Natural Lighting: The Sun Inside

Harness the power of sunlight to bring warmth and vibrancy into your home. Try to maximize the amount of natural light that comes into your rooms by using light curtains, or simply repositioning furniture. If you don’t have large windows, strategically placed mirrors can help bounce the light around, illuminating even the darkest corners.

3. Materials Matter: Textures from Nature

Incorporating natural materials into your decor helps to emulate an outdoor atmosphere. Think hardwood floors, stone countertops or woolen throws. By mixing different textures, you can achieve an earthy, tactile quality that creates a sense of comfort and tranquility.

4. Art and Accessories: Nature’s Touch

Your choice of art and accessories can echo outdoor themes in your space. Consider prints of landscapes or botanical sketches, framed pressed flowers, or nature-inspired ceramics. Even smaller elements like a bowl of pine cones or a display of beautiful rocks and crystals can make a difference.

5. Water Elements: Flowing Serenity

Water has a soothing, calming effect that is very much associated with nature. Introducing a small indoor fountain, or even a fish tank, can create a soothing ambience. Not to mention, the soft sound of flowing water can mask unwanted noise and foster a peaceful environment.

6. Colors of Nature: Earthy Tones

Color impacts mood, so consider a palette inspired by nature. This could mean soft greens, warm browns, calming blues, or even vibrant floral hues. For a more subtle touch, opt for neutrals with pops of color in accents like pillows, rugs, or artwork.

In conclusion, infusing your indoor spaces with elements of the outdoors can do wonders for your overall well-being. You can create a refreshing, calming, and inspiring environment by incorporating plants, natural materials, and nature-inspired colors and art into your décor.

Remember, your home should be a reflection of you – so let your personal style shine. You can adapt these suggestions to suit your aesthetic and preferences, ensuring your indoor oasis feels truly your own. By bringing the outdoors inside, you can enjoy the benefits of nature from the comfort of your home, no matter where you live or what the weather outside is like.

Creating an Inviting Guest Bathroom

Pelican Bay Model

As one of the most practical and used spaces in the house, bathrooms are key touchpoints in the guest experience. While it’s essential to have a clean and functional space, a well-designed guest bathroom can be a delightful surprise, adding to the overall comfort and enjoyment of your guest’s stay.

Follow these tips to create a luxurious and inviting guest bathroom that your guests will love.

1. Sparkling Cleanliness

The first rule of thumb is always cleanliness. Ensure every nook and corner of the bathroom is sparkling clean. Use high-quality cleaning products to make fixtures, mirrors, and tiles shine. Leave no traces of mold, dust, or water spots. Regular cleaning and maintenance not only promote hygiene but also extend the life of your fixtures and finishes.

2. Luxurious Linens

Invest in plush, high-quality towels for your guests. Ensure you provide a complete set, including bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths. Opt for colors that compliment the theme of the room or neutral or light colors as they add a sense of calm and luxury. Remember to replace them regularly for freshness.

3. Storage Solutions

Your guests will appreciate some space to keep their toiletries. A shelf or a small cupboard can be very useful. Provide a set of empty hangers too, where guests can hang their towels or clothes.

4. Quality Toiletries

A mini selection of high-quality toiletries can make your guests feel pampered. Provide essentials like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and soap. Extras such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, and razors are always appreciated. Display these items neatly, either in a pretty basket or on a clean shelf.

5. Delightful Scents

A well-chosen scent can instantly uplift the ambiance of your bathroom. Use air fresheners, scented candles, or diffusers with essential oils to create a pleasing aroma. Opt for calming fragrances like lavender or vanilla, which can help your guests relax.

6. Ample Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Layer your lighting – use brighter lights for makeup or shaving purposes, and softer lights for a relaxing soak. Remember to have a night light, particularly helpful for guests unfamiliar with the layout.

7. Thoughtful Extras

Little extras can elevate your guest bathroom from good to great. Add a small indoor plant for a touch of greenery. A pile of fresh, fluffy towels, a small basket of toilet paper, and a new bar of soap never go amiss. You can also consider keeping a pile of magazines or a small book collection for those who enjoy a read in the bath.

8. Personalized Touches

Finally, personalize the space based on who’s visiting. If you know your guest’s favorite color or scent, try to incorporate it. If your guests have children, make sure you have kid-friendly bath products on hand.

Creating an inviting guest bathroom doesn’t require a full remodel. By focusing on cleanliness, comfort, and a few personal touches, you can create a space that makes your guests feel pampered and welcomed. Remember, the secret to a great guest bathroom is anticipating your guests’ needs and providing for them in advance. With these tips, your guest bathroom will surely be the talk of the town!

Regenerate response

Question: Do I really need a backsplash?

Arena Cove Model

A backsplash is a protective and decorative feature that is installed above the countertop and behind the stove or sink in a kitchen. It is often made of ceramic, glass, metal, or stone tiles, and it serves several purposes, including protecting the wall from splatters and spills, adding style and visual interest to the kitchen, and making cleaning easier.

But the question remains: Does a backsplash really make a difference in the kitchen? The answer is yes, it does. Here’s why:

  1. Protects Your Walls: A backsplash protects your kitchen walls from water damage, oil splatters, and other stains that are common in a busy kitchen. Without a backsplash, your walls can become stained and discolored, which can be difficult to clean.
  2. Easy to Clean: A backsplash makes cleaning up a breeze. Instead of scrubbing the walls or repainting them, you can simply wipe down the backsplash with a damp cloth or sponge. This saves time and effort, especially if you cook often.
  3. Adds Style: A backsplash can add a lot of style and personality to your kitchen. You can choose from a wide range of materials, colors, and designs to match your kitchen decor and create a cohesive look. Whether you prefer a classic subway tile or a modern mosaic, there’s a backsplash that will suit your taste. Take a look at the difference this backsplash makes in this kitchen!
  4. Increases Your Home’s Value: Installing a backsplash can increase the value of your home. It is a relatively inexpensive way to update your kitchen and make it look more attractive to potential buyers.

Overall, a backsplash is a practical and stylish addition to any kitchen. It protects your walls, makes cleaning easier, adds style and visual interest, and increases your home’s value. So, whether you are building a new Fulton Home or if you’re considering a kitchen renovation or update, don’t overlook the importance of a backsplash!

Using Cool Tones in Your Design

Timber Cove Model

Many elements contribute to making your interior design perfectly balanced. Ideally, you want your room to be functional yet also have a sense of style. To do so, you can choose a style like Rustic or Contemporary to help set guidelines when designing your space. However, you can also influence the mood of your room with color. In fact, there are three different tones that you can create with colors: cool, warm, and neutral. Today, we are going to discuss cool tones and how they affect your environment. Let’s take a look!

Color Psychology 

Certain colors can help depict specific psychological feelings or moods. Learning to use color psychology can help you design your space. For example, warm tones can make a room feel more inviting, whereas cool tones can allow a space to feel more relaxing. Deciding what you are trying to accomplish is vital before you choose your color palette.  

Cool Tones 

There are three types of moods you can set in a room: warm, cool, or neutral. Even though every color can have its own influences, having colors that work together can create a mood. Cool tones can make a space feel more passive and soothing. If you are looking to achieve this look, try using cool tone colors such as blue, green, purple, and violet. These tones can all work together to help create your atmosphere. A general rule of thumb is to add contrast.  If your room has primarily cool tones, feel free to contrast small areas with the opposing colors. This can also allow benefits from other color tones to affect the space. 

Using Colors to Set the Mood 

Setting the mood is more than just adding color. Decide how you plan on using each color in your space. Some colors work great with each other, so try exploring different color swatches, floorings, and textiles together. Just keep in mind the mood you are trying to accomplish. Designing your space should give you freedom, but should also feel planned and unified. 

Cool tones can have a significant impact on your environment and can help your space feel relaxing.  Do you like to use cool tones or warm tones more in your space? Let us know below in the comments.

Transitional Interior Design: A Trendy, Traditional & Modern Home

The world of design is everchanging; styles evolve and branch off into more tailored categories. Some interior design styles are timeless while others fade away and are just merely a trend. However, it is always something truly magical when two very distinct styles have the opportunity to mesh together into a new style, offering the best of both worlds. Traditional Design and Contemporary Design are prevalent yet very distinctly different styles, and that is where Transitional Design gives them the opportunity to shine together as one design. To better understand Transitional Design, we explored the two main outlets that power this style. Let’s take a look:

Traditional

There is something inspiring about the raw beauty of a Traditional Design. From its classic detailing through wooden trim to the rich, elegant environment it showcases, traditional homes easily highlight the inviting elements of comfort by integrating symmetry, boastful décor, and freedom of color to warm the atmosphere. With endless accessories, this has been a timeless style that balances a dramatic space with a refined yet elegant atmosphere.

Contemporary/Modern

On the other hand of classic, there is the new, edgy style: Contemporary Design. While Mid-Century Modern is an era that has come and gone, this is a style that is always adapting to its latest trends. Borrowing the open layout from Mid-Century modern is as far as these can relate. However, contemporary design is mainly influenced by today’s most trending design influencers. Patterns, colors, and styles are always becoming more unique and pushing the limits of design. This is a highly evolving design that can quickly be identified as very awe-inspiring. Modern Design will allow an open layout, and it thrives on sticking minimalistic with its décor and will tend to keep a neutral color palette.

The Balance

You can go three routes when combining the two styles in Transitional Design. First, you can choose to amplify Traditional Style through your home’s architecture, trim, flooring, and color palette. Find elegance and luxury in your home by incorporating woods and classic elements then you can add the sleek, more contemporary designs through furniture, rugs, and décor. Or, you can try to have a modern open layout home. Include contemporary design through the layout of your space but let your furniture incorporate more classic textures and patterns. Lastly, you can try the “even” blend–this is where your home has a little more of an eclectic feel. You let each design shine evenly throughout the space. Putting both Traditional and Modern design into the furniture, layout, and the décor.

When completing a Transitional Design, make sure your room always feels uniform and not unbalanced. Harmony is key when creating Transitional Design. Remember that this is an eclectic blend of sophisticated and new edge. Have fun with it!