Tag Archives: relaxation in the home

Room Refresh Without Remodeling: Small Updates That Make a Big Impact

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You don’t need a full renovation to fall in love with your home again.

In fact, some of the most noticeable and satisfying home improvements are the simplest ones. A room refresh — without tearing down walls or starting a major construction project — can completely transform how your home looks and feels.

For Arizona homeowners, this time of year is ideal for small upgrades. Before summer heat settles in and life gets busier, it’s the perfect moment to update your space in ways that enhance comfort, style, and functionality.

If you’re ready to give your home a lift without committing to a full remodel, here are smart, approachable ways to make a big impact with minimal disruption.

Start with Paint: The Fastest Way to Transform a Room

Few updates change a space as dramatically as paint.

Whether you’re refreshing walls, updating trim, or giving cabinetry new life, a fresh coat of paint instantly modernizes a room. Over time, Arizona sunlight can fade surfaces and subtly shift color tones. Repainting restores brightness and crispness.

Trending Directions for Arizona Homes

  • Soft desert neutrals like warm beige, greige, and sand tones
  • Light, airy whites that reflect natural light
  • Subtle sage or muted blue accents inspired by desert landscapes
  • Bold accent walls in offices or dining rooms for personality

Paint is also one of the most budget-friendly updates you can make — and it creates a clean foundation for everything else in the room.

Upgrade Lighting for Instant Modern Appeal

Lighting is often overlooked, yet it dramatically influences how a space feels.

Builder-grade fixtures may work functionally, but swapping them for updated lighting can elevate a room instantly. Consider:

  • Statement pendant lights over kitchen islands
  • Updated dining room chandeliers
  • Modern ceiling fans with integrated lighting
  • Wall sconces for added warmth
  • Under-cabinet lighting in kitchens

Arizona homes benefit from maximizing natural light, but thoughtful fixture upgrades add warmth and dimension in the evenings.

Even something as simple as changing outdated light fixtures to streamlined, contemporary designs can make a room feel current and curated.

Refresh Hardware and Fixtures

Sometimes the smallest details create the biggest visual shift.

Swapping cabinet hardware, bathroom faucets, and door handles can modernize a space without touching cabinetry or countertops.

Consider finishes like:

  • Matte black
  • Brushed nickel
  • Warm brass
  • Oil-rubbed bronze

If your kitchen cabinets are in great shape but feel dated, new hardware may be all you need to update the look.

This is an especially effective refresh in bathrooms and kitchens, where metal finishes draw attention.

Reimagine Your Window Treatments

In Arizona, windows are essential — they let in beautiful natural light while also protecting your home from intense sun.

If your window coverings feel outdated or heavy, replacing them can instantly refresh a room.

Options to consider:

  • Light-filtering roller shades
  • Plantation shutters
  • Layered curtains for softness
  • Motorized shades for convenience

Modern window treatments not only enhance style but also improve energy efficiency — helping keep interiors cooler during the summer months.

Update Flooring in High-Impact Areas

You don’t always need to replace flooring throughout your entire home to see a difference.

Consider updating:

  • A worn carpeted bedroom
  • A dated office floor
  • A high-traffic hallway
  • An entryway

New flooring instantly makes a room feel cleaner and more current. In Arizona homes, durable hard surfaces like tile and luxury vinyl plank continue to be popular for their longevity and ease of maintenance.

If replacing flooring isn’t in your immediate plans, adding a large area rug can redefine a space and introduce new texture and color.

Declutter and Redefine the Space

Not every refresh requires purchasing something new.

Sometimes, the biggest impact comes from rethinking layout and organization.

Ask yourself:

  • Is the furniture placement maximizing the room’s function?
  • Are there oversized pieces that make the space feel crowded?
  • Can storage solutions reduce visible clutter?

Simple changes such as rearranging seating areas, removing excess décor, or adding built-in shelving can dramatically improve flow.

Arizona homes often feature open floor plans. Defining zones with rugs, lighting, or furniture placement can make large spaces feel intentional and cohesive.

Add Texture Through Accessories

Accessories are where personality shines.

Layering textures through:

  • Throw pillows
  • Area rugs
  • Decorative baskets
  • Artwork
  • Greenery

adds depth and warmth.

Desert-inspired décor — incorporating natural fibers, ceramics, wood tones, and greenery — pairs beautifully with Arizona’s surroundings.

Even updating coffee table styling or swapping out dated wall art can shift the tone of a room from tired to refreshed.

Upgrade One Feature Wall

If you want a refresh that feels custom without a remodel, consider a feature wall.

Options include:

  • Wood slat panels
  • Wallpaper
  • Shiplap
  • Painted geometric designs
  • Built-in shelving

A single accent wall can create architectural interest and focal points without major construction.

This approach works especially well in home offices, bedrooms, and dining areas.

Modernize Your Outdoor Living Space

In Arizona, outdoor living is an extension of the home.

Refreshing your patio or backyard area can feel just as impactful as updating an interior room.

Simple upgrades might include:

  • New outdoor seating cushions
  • A fresh outdoor rug
  • Updated string lighting
  • Potted plants
  • A new fire feature

As temperatures begin to warm, investing in outdoor comfort ensures you can enjoy your space before peak summer heat arrives.

Refresh Your Entryway

First impressions matter — for guests and for you.

Your entryway sets the tone every time you walk through the door.

Consider:

  • Updating a console table
  • Adding a mirror to reflect light
  • Installing modern lighting
  • Incorporating functional storage for shoes and bags
  • Adding a statement piece of art

A welcoming entry doesn’t require major changes — just intentional design.

The Power of Small Changes

One of the best parts about a room refresh without remodeling is flexibility.

You can:

  • Tackle one space at a time
  • Spread updates out over months
  • Work within a comfortable budget
  • Avoid construction timelines

And often, small improvements build momentum. Updating paint may inspire new décor. Replacing lighting may encourage a more cohesive design direction.

Over time, these incremental changes transform your entire home.

Protecting and Preserving Your Investment

Your home is one of your most meaningful investments. Regular updates — even modest ones — help maintain its value and appeal.

Arizona’s climate can be tough on interiors due to sunlight exposure and dust. Periodic refreshes ensure your home stays vibrant and well-maintained.

Small improvements today can:

  • Increase long-term resale appeal
  • Enhance daily comfort
  • Improve functionality
  • Reflect your evolving style

Most importantly, they allow your home to grow with you.

You Don’t Need a Major Remodel to Make a Major Difference

Refreshing a room isn’t about following trends or undertaking dramatic changes. It’s about making thoughtful updates that reflect your lifestyle and enhance how you use your space.

Whether it’s a new coat of paint, upgraded lighting, reimagined furniture placement, or refreshed outdoor seating, small adjustments can create meaningful transformation.

Before summer arrives in full force, take a look around your home. What one room could use a lift? What small change would make the biggest difference in how you feel when you walk in?

Sometimes, all it takes is a simple refresh to rediscover why you love where you live.

Preparing Your Home for Arizona’s “Cool” Season: Outdoor Living in Fall & Winter

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While much of the country is preparing to hunker down indoors for winter, Arizona homeowners are stepping into the best season for outdoor living. The cooler months bring mild temperatures, clear skies, and the kind of weather that begs you to open the patio doors and enjoy every moment outside. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings, cozying up around a fire pit, or savoring quiet mornings with coffee on the patio, fall and winter are prime time to make the most of your outdoor spaces.

From design ideas to comfort upgrades, here’s how to transform your yard, patio, or balcony into a year-round retreat that embraces Arizona’s unique cool-season charm.

1. Embrace the Season with Comfortable Outdoor Seating

Outdoor living in Arizona is all about maximizing comfort. With the heat of summer behind us, you can finally use your patio or backyard during the day — so it’s time to make those spaces inviting.

Start with seating that encourages relaxation and connection. Deep-sectionals, cushioned chairs, and weather-resistant loungers are ideal for fall and winter gatherings. Choose durable, UV-resistant fabrics like Sunbrella that can handle the desert sun year-round without fading.

If your space allows, consider creating multiple seating “zones” — a dining area for entertaining, a fire pit circle for cool evenings, and a quiet corner for reading or enjoying morning coffee. Add outdoor rugs to define each space and introduce warmth underfoot.

And don’t forget throw blankets or outdoor poufs. On chilly desert nights, these simple touches transform your patio from practical to cozy.

2. Add Warmth with Fire Features

One of the biggest benefits of Arizona’s climate is that you can enjoy your backyard almost every month of the year — as long as you have the right heat source. A fire feature instantly extends your outdoor season and becomes the heart of your gathering space.

Fire pits are a perennial favorite. Whether wood-burning, gas, or propane, they provide instant ambiance and warmth. For a more built-in look, consider a stone or stucco fireplace that complements your home’s architecture and serves as a focal point for outdoor seating.

For smaller patios or balconies, tabletop fire bowls or portable propane heaters are excellent alternatives. They add both heat and visual appeal without requiring major installation.

When planning your fire feature, think about function as much as style. If you love hosting, choose a design that includes a wide ledge or seating wall, so guests can gather close. If your space is intimate, opt for a compact, modern fire table that offers a cozy glow without taking up too much room.

3. Layer in Lighting for Ambiance and Function

As the days grow shorter, the right lighting can make your outdoor areas more inviting — and safer. The key is layering light for both ambiance and function.

  • String lights or bistro lighting create a soft, magical glow perfect for entertaining.
  • Lanterns or wall sconces add character and complement your home’s design.
  • Pathway lights improve visibility and guide guests through your yard or garden.
  • Spotlights or uplighting highlight architectural details, plants, or water features.

If you’re building a new home or upgrading your existing one, consider smart lighting options that let you control brightness and color temperature from your phone. You can shift from warm, relaxing tones to bright task lighting with the tap of a screen — ideal for transitioning from dinner to dessert under the stars.

4. Create an Outdoor Dining Experience

Cooler weather and clear skies make outdoor dining one of life’s simplest pleasures. With a few thoughtful touches, you can turn every meal into an event.

Start by choosing the right dining set for your space. If you frequently entertain, a large rectangular table with comfortable seating is perfect for family-style dinners. For smaller patios, a round bistro table or high-top set creates an intimate feel.

Invest in durable, low-maintenance materials like aluminum, teak, or powder-coated steel that can handle Arizona’s dry climate. Pair with washable seat cushions and a large umbrella or pergola for midday shade.

For ambiance, use outdoor-friendly table décor: textured placemats, LED candles, and fresh desert blooms like succulents or aloe centerpieces. And don’t overlook lighting — string lights or hanging lanterns over the dining table create instant charm.

Finally, if you love to cook and entertain, consider a built-in outdoor kitchen. Even a small counter space with a grill, mini fridge, and prep sink can elevate your hosting game and keep you part of the action while guests gather outside.

5. Enhance Your Space with Natural Elements

Bringing in plants, textures, and natural materials connects your outdoor areas to the desert landscape — and creates harmony between indoors and out.

In Arizona’s cooler months, plants like succulents, agave, desert marigold, and red yucca thrive with minimal care. Incorporate them into raised planters or ceramic pots for an instant refresh. If you have garden beds, consider adding seasonal color with lantana, petunias, or snapdragons, which bloom beautifully during the fall and winter.

Layer in natural textures through wood furniture, woven baskets, and stone accents. A teak coffee table, a terracotta planter, or a flagstone pathway brings warmth and authenticity to your design.

If your patio feels bare, vertical gardens or trellises can add greenery without taking up space. And don’t forget desert-friendly herbs like rosemary or sage — they’re beautiful, fragrant, and useful for cooking.

6. Make It Cozy: Textiles, Shade, and Comfort Touches

Even in winter, Arizona days can bring strong sun, so shade remains important. Retractable awnings, pergolas with drapes, and UV-filtering shades help you manage temperature and comfort throughout the day.

For cooler evenings, layer in soft furnishings. Outdoor pillows, throws, and rugs not only add color and personality but also invite guests to linger. Choose warm, earthy tones like rust, sand, or olive to complement the natural desert palette.

To keep the chill away, add warmth from above with outdoor heaters, or below with heated flooring options if you’re designing a new patio. If you’re looking for an easy seasonal upgrade, swap out summer fabrics for heavier textures — woven or quilted cushions, chunky knit blankets, and even flannel-style patterns give your outdoor space a cozy, seasonal feel.

7. Extend the Indoors Out: Creating Seamless Flow

Arizona homes often feature open layouts and large sliding doors that blend indoor and outdoor spaces. Fall and winter are the perfect time to enhance that connection.

Start by coordinating your color schemes and materials. Use similar tones or textures in both areas — like matching wood finishes, consistent metal accents, or complementary rug colors.

If your indoor living room opens onto a patio, think of it as one continuous entertaining space. An outdoor area rug, similar furniture scale, and cohesive décor will make it feel like a natural extension of your home.

For added functionality, install a ceiling fan or misting system for warmer afternoons, and weatherproof curtains or screens for privacy or wind protection. The result is an outdoor room you can enjoy in almost any weather.

8. Don’t Forget Entertainment and Functionality

Cool evenings are ideal for movie nights or weekend gatherings. Outdoor entertainment setups — from Bluetooth speakers and smart projectors to weatherproof TVs — make your space even more versatile.

If you’re working with limited space, modular furniture can adapt easily. Choose pieces that move from dining to lounging configurations or fold away when not in use.

And for families, consider creating dedicated areas for kids and pets — a small turf play zone, sandbox, or shaded corner for toys ensures everyone enjoys your outdoor space comfortably.

9. Keep It Low-Maintenance

The beauty of outdoor living in Arizona is that you can enjoy the fresh air without endless upkeep. When planning your space, choose low-maintenance materials and features that simplify life:

  • Composite decking or pavers instead of natural wood.
  • Drip irrigation systems for plants and gardens.
  • Outdoor-rated fabrics and furniture that withstand sun and dust.
  • Automatic timers for lighting or water features.

Regular sweeping, wiping down furniture, and rinsing hardscapes are usually all that’s needed to keep your space looking pristine.

10. Celebrate Arizona’s Outdoor Lifestyle

Arizona’s fall and winter offer a lifestyle that homeowners in colder climates can only dream of — dinners under starry skies, fire-lit conversations, and mornings spent surrounded by mountain views and desert air.

By preparing your home now and enhancing your outdoor spaces with comfort, function, and beauty, you’ll create the perfect setting for everything the season brings — from festive gatherings to quiet nights at home.

Whether you’re building a new home or updating your backyard, your Arizona outdoor spaces can become an extension of how you live, entertain, and connect — all year long.

Creating Cozy Indoor Spaces: Design Tips for Fall and Winter

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As fall and winter bring cooler evenings and shorter days, there’s no better time to transform your home into a cozy retreat. Creating a warm, inviting indoor space doesn’t require a major renovation—just a few thoughtful touches can add a seasonal feel that’s perfect for relaxing, entertaining, or simply staying comfortable through the chillier months. Here’s a guide on how to create cozy indoor spaces with textures, lighting, color, and a few design elements that will add warmth and comfort all season long.

1. Embrace Warm Color Palettes

One of the simplest ways to shift a room’s mood for fall and winter is through color. Warm tones can instantly make a space feel more inviting and are easy to incorporate through decor and accents.

  • Incorporate Earth Tones: Shades like deep browns, rusts, ochres, and forest greens reflect the colors of fall and add a grounded, nature-inspired feel to your rooms. Consider earth-toned throw pillows, area rugs, or even an accent wall.
  • Add Pops of Rich Colors: Jewel tones such as emerald green, deep navy, burgundy, and mustard yellow bring warmth and a touch of luxury to living rooms and bedrooms. These tones are perfect for accent pieces like throws, vases, and picture frames.
  • Balance Neutrals with Warm Undertones: For those who prefer a neutral color palette, go for shades with warm undertones, like creamy whites, taupe, and beige. These colors maintain an airy feel while subtly warming up your space.

2. Layer Textures for Depth and Warmth

Incorporating various textures is key to making a room feel cozy and inviting. From chunky blankets to soft rugs, layering textures adds visual interest and comfort to your space.

  • Bring in Soft, Plush Fabrics: Add throw blankets and pillows made from materials like fleece, wool, or faux fur. These fabrics provide a cozy look and are perfect for snuggling up with on cold nights. Consider adding throws to your sofa or draping them over the edge of a chair.
  • Introduce Area Rugs: In cooler months, an area rug not only grounds the room but also provides warmth underfoot, especially on tile or hardwood floors. Choose rugs with high-pile or shag textures to maximize softness, or go with woven, bohemian-inspired rugs for a rustic look.
  • Mix Materials: Layering textures with materials like leather, woven baskets, and natural wood brings an earthy warmth to your rooms. Try adding a leather ottoman, a rattan basket for extra blankets, or wood accent tables to incorporate a variety of textures.

3. Use Lighting to Set a Cozy Atmosphere

Lighting plays a crucial role in creating a cozy, inviting space. Swapping out bright or harsh lighting for softer alternatives can make any room feel more relaxed and ready for fall and winter.

  • Switch to Warm Light Bulbs: Opt for warm-toned LED bulbs instead of bright white bulbs. Warm lights mimic the glow of a fire and add a soft, ambient feel to your space. This works especially well in lamps, sconces, and overhead lighting.
  • Add Multiple Light Sources: Instead of relying on one overhead light, layer your lighting with lamps, string lights, and candles. Floor and table lamps allow you to adjust the level of light based on your mood or activity, while string lights create a gentle, twinkling effect perfect for cozy nights.
  • Use Candles for a Warm Glow: Candles are a timeless way to add ambiance, and they double as decor. Choose scented candles in fall-inspired fragrances like cinnamon, vanilla, or cedarwood to bring a warm scent to your space.

4. Create Cozy Seating Areas

Arranging your furniture to create small, inviting seating areas can make a room feel more intimate and ready for fall gatherings or winter relaxation.

  • Add a Reading Nook: Design a cozy corner with a comfortable chair, a small side table, and a good lamp. Throw in a plush pillow and blanket for the perfect reading spot. A reading nook can turn even a small space into a cozy retreat.
  • Arrange for Conversation: Set up seating areas that encourage conversation. Position chairs or sofas to face each other or a central table, creating a social atmosphere. Arrange seats around a coffee table or near a fireplace to give the space a focal point.
  • Add Extra Seating with Poufs and Floor Pillows: Poufs and oversized floor pillows are great for adding seating in a casual, cozy way. They’re easy to move around and add a touch of personality to your space.

5. Add Seasonal Greenery and Natural Decor

Incorporating natural elements indoors brings a touch of the season and enhances the cozy, grounded feel of your space.

  • Bring in Dried Florals and Branches: Dried florals, pampas grass, and eucalyptus are perfect for fall and winter decor. Place them in a vase on a mantel, coffee table, or entryway to add an earthy, rustic element that lasts all season.
  • Add Indoor Plants: Indoor plants not only improve air quality but also add life to your space. Consider plants that do well indoors during cooler months, such as snake plants, pothos, or succulents. Place them in decorative pots that match your color scheme.
  • Use Pinecones and Seasonal Accents: Pinecones, acorns, and small gourds are perfect for fall and winter decor. Use them in a centerpiece, add them to a wreath, or place them in a bowl on your coffee table for a festive, natural touch.

6. Incorporate Wood and Stone Elements

Wood and stone add an organic warmth to your home that feels particularly comforting in fall and winter. These natural materials are versatile and add depth to your decor.

  • Wood Accents: Wooden furniture, wall shelves, or picture frames add warmth to any room. If you have a fireplace, a reclaimed wood mantel can make it a stunning focal point. Wood tones from light oak to dark walnut can work with various color schemes.
  • Stone Details: Stone adds texture and an earthy feel that’s perfect for colder months. Consider adding stone elements through decor pieces like marble trays, stone coasters, or a natural stone coffee table. If you’re up for a more extensive change, a stone accent wall or tile backsplash is both cozy and timeless.
  • Use Faux Wood Beams: If your home has high ceilings, adding faux wood beams can bring a rustic, cabin-like warmth to your space. This feature can add architectural interest and makes larger spaces feel more intimate.

7. Decorate for Function and Style

In the fall and winter, make functional pieces part of your decor. Items like blankets, baskets, and trays serve practical purposes while enhancing your cozy aesthetic.

  • Blanket Baskets: Place a woven or rattan basket near your seating area filled with blankets or throws for easy access and a homey touch.
  • Trays for Warm Beverages: Use decorative trays on coffee tables or kitchen counters to display mugs, hot chocolate mix, or seasonal spices. This makes it easy to grab a warm drink on cold days while adding a cozy touch to your decor.
  • Display Books and Board Games: Stack a few books on a side table or keep board games on display for easy reach. This encourages relaxation and makes your space feel like a hub for connection and cozy moments.

8. Make the Fireplace a Focal Point

If you have a fireplace, it’s the perfect centerpiece for fall and winter. Adding decor around the fireplace can make it an even cozier element in your home.

  • Decorate the Mantel: Style your mantel with seasonal decor, such as candles, dried flowers, or small potted plants. This creates a festive, inviting atmosphere.
  • Create a Cozy Fireplace Seating Area: Arrange a few chairs or a bench around the fireplace to create a cozy nook for enjoying the warmth. Place a soft rug or throw nearby to enhance the comfort of the area.
  • For Electric Fireplaces, Add Ambiance: If you have an electric fireplace, use it as an ambiance piece. Many electric fireplaces have adjustable settings, allowing you to control the warmth and light. Pair it with candles and soft lighting to enhance the cozy effect.

With a few seasonal changes, you can transform your home into a warm and inviting oasis perfect for fall and winter. By using warm colors, layering textures, incorporating natural elements, and enhancing lighting, you can create a cozy space that’s ready for cooler days and relaxing nights. Whether you’re hosting friends, spending time with family, or unwinding with a good book, these tips will help make your home a comforting retreat all season long.

New Neighbors, New Friends

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gossip-475029_1280 - CopyWhen you move into a new Fulton Homes community, chances are you won’t know any of your neighbors. But here’s the good news. You’re all new neighbors! You will have plenty of chances for casual encounters as other neighbors move in, you and your children meet at the playground and pool or walking through the community. But if you want to make sure you get to know your neighbors, here are a few suggestions to help.

Throw a welcome brunch: Saturday morning is a great time to invite people over for coffee and pastries. You don’t have to be fancy. Just pick up a variety of donuts and other breakfast treats at your favorite shop and cut up some fruit. You can hand-deliver invitations or just post an announcement on the side of the neighborhood mail box. Set it up as an open house so that people can come and go over the course of two or three hours.

Exchange contact information: When you meet your neighbors, take the time to exchange phone numbers and emails. You may even want to put together a roster of numbers and emails for everyone on your street. That way you can contact each other in case of an emergency.

Look for play date opportunities: If you see children the same age as your children in the neighborhood, look for chances to get them together. At first set up something casual such as going to the pool at the same time. Later you can plan home visits if the kids get to be friends.

A new community can feel strange at first, but with just a little bit of effort it will quickly start to feel like home.

Making the Most of your Walk-In Pantry

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wWarner-Groves-at-Morrison-Ranch-053 - CopyIf you’re lucky enough to have a kitchen with a walk-in pantry, you will soon wonder how you ever managed to make meals without one. It can’t be beat for helping you organize your space and make the most of your kitchen. Here are some suggestions to help your pantry really work for you.

Use a FIFO inventory system: FIFO means First In First Out. If you don’t pay close attention to this, it’s easy to let food get lost until it’s out of date. To protect against this, keep like products together and take the time to put the new purchases toward the back.

Use baskets to store small products: Packets of spice mixes or dips will quickly get lost on shelves if you don’t keep them contained. Look for small wicker or plastic bins to hold this type of item.

Store small appliances on lower shelves: It’s easy to have small appliances such as blenders and food processors absorb counter space. Instead, use your lower pantry shelves to store those appliances, keeping them out of the way yet making them easy to grab when you want them.

Use labeled clear airtight bins to store grains and staples: Oxo and other companies make great airtight bins for flour, sugar and cereals. You can use a label maker to print labels or just tape hand-written labels on the fronts of the containers. These are much more efficient in terms of space usage and will keep everything fresher than leaving things in original boxes.

Position a grocery list in your pantry: As you run low on standard pantry items, add them to your list. When you’re ready to go to the store, just add any fresh produce or meat needs and go.

With a little planning, your pantry can be the center of your well-organized and enjoyable kitchen.

Water Feature Makes a Yard Special

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wBackyard-Sycamore-Warner-Groves-at-Morrison-Ranch-057 - CopyIf you want your backyard to feel unique, consider a water feature. Take a look at this one from the Sycamore model at Warner Groves at Morrison Ranch. This water feature, and this yard, have much more going for them than the standard approach. Let’s take a look at the elements that make this space special.

Dramatic waterfall trio: By positioning the three waterfall fountains along the back of the yard, this space has a unique focal point. Living in the desert, we are naturally drawn to water, and this arrangement provides a cooling look and sound as well as a refreshing place to sit and cool off.

Pavers used in hardscaping: Pavers are versatile and attractive and hold up extremely well in Arizona’s tough weather conditions. They are also a cost-effective alternative to tile and stone.

Raised planter beds: Raised beds allow plants to stand out in a landscape and make it easy to plan a drip irrigation system. They also allow you to make the most of your water use, by planting in the richer soil that is used in raised bed gardening. They also create a sense of intimacy in a backyard.

Comfortable outdoor furniture: Thanks to the new outdoor fabrics and fillers, you can have cushioned furniture outside year-round. This arrangement invites guests to relax for an evening of conversation and fun.

Start with a significant water feature and continue adding elements until you have a backyard like this one – a place to relax, entertain and enjoy.

 

Create Cozy

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wWarner-Groves-at-Morrison-Ranch-074 - Copyit’s not hard to make your family room to feel cozy and welcoming like this one. Here are some suggestions to bring the cozy into your home.

Darker Walls: You may have heard that darker walls make a room feel smaller. Not true. Instead, dark walls make you feel more secure and enclosed. The dark grey wall in the back adds warmth even though it is a cool color. It also provides a nice contrast to the bright windows.

Comfortable Upholstered Furniture: Getting comfy is an important part of feeling cozy. This plush sectional offers plenty of room to sit or stretch out. Throw pillows add comfort. You can tuck one or two under your head or at your feet on the coffee table.

Floor and Table Lamps: Ceiling light fixtures alone can’t add the ambiance that floor and table lamps can. Set your ceiling lights at a low level and turn on the lamps to create a cozy feel to any space.

Low Furniture: The television, coffee table and console are all close to the ground. This means that you can sit on the floor and still access everything. It’s an inviting space for lounging.

Carpeting: The choice of carpeting or a large rug adds softness to a room. Once again, a comfy soft flooring surface invites lounging on the floor.

Make your family room a place where friends want to linger. Create a cozy space for relaxing and fun evenings with guests or just family. Visit the models at Warner Groves at Morrison Ranch for a closer look.

Summer Learning

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just-have-a-great-day-merry-christmas-picjumbo-com - CopySummer vacation is every kid’s dream, but studies have shown that their academic skills backslide with three months out of school. As a parent, you can make a difference while still showing them that learning can be fun. Here are some ideas to keep their skills alive without making them feel like you’re working them all summer long.

Read to them and have them read to you: Libraries have summer reading programs with prizes. Look into those or create your own prizes for reading. Ask their teachers or your local librarians for book ideas. You can pick up great books at good prices from used book stores or thrift shops if you want to start building a library for your children at home.

Use shopping lists and coupons to help with math skills: Have them sort coupons when you create a shopping list and add up how much you can save. You might want to put one of your children in charge of coupons and let him or her have the savings as spending money.

Visit local museums and pick out books or learning tools at the gift shop: Museum gift shops specialize in books and toys designed to help children learn more about history or science in a fun way. Help them choose something that appeals to them and then spend time going through the activities once you get home. Be sure to take the time to discuss what you saw and learned during the outing.

Look into activities and classes in your community: Parks and Recreation programs offer opportunities for summer learning for every age. Check out what is offered near your home.

You can keep your childrens’ brains active and learning all summer long, so that next fall they’re ready to jump into that next year of school.

Layers in Decorating

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wWarner-Groves-at-Morrison-Ranch-052 - CopyWhen you’re planning to decorate a room, it’s easy to focus on the furniture and accessories, but there’s much more to consider. Let’s take a look at this photo and consider all the elements we see.

The view: From this angle, the first thing our eyes focus on is what’s outside the house – the backyard. In a way, the focal point of this space is actually the trio of waterfall fountains in the back yard. It’s nice to have this kind of special view from your back windows because it adds so much not only to the yard itself but to your home too. But even if you don’t have a view like this, be sure to think about what people will see when they look outside. Plan your landscaping with the view in mind and keep the yard free of clutter.

The window treatments: This room has curtains framing the back window that capture the accent color in the room – yellow – as well as shutters behind the sofa where drapes would be awkward. When you’re choosing window treatments be sure to consider how furniture placement will affect your choice.

Lamp and accessories: Notice that the shape of the jar on the side table echoes the base of the lamp. That creates a comfortable consistency that makes the room feel well pulled-together. The colors also work well together – staying in the background rather than pulling too much attention to that corner. And the curves flow with the soft upholstery and throw pillows.

Altogether, the layers of this room work well to make the space feel integrated and well designed. This makes the room a pleasure to spend time in and share with family and guests.

Elegant Master Bedroom

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wWarner-Groves-at-Morrison-Ranch-062If you want a master bedroom with all the elegance of a fine hotel, you can create it with just a few touches. Let’s take a look at what makes this bedroom special.

Padded headboard: If you like to read or watch television in bed, a padded headboard makes the entire experience much more enjoyable. This headboard is high enough to lean back without your head hitting the top, and the extra-large pillows make it easy to get comfy. A padded headboard is one investment that keeps paying you back.

Matching nightstands: There is a pleasure in the symmetry of matching nightstands. Take a look at how these two really set a style for the room. With their white marble tops and dark finish, they tie in with the headboard but still stand out. Notice the height also – a bit higher than standard to make them the right height for the raised bed.

Matching lamps: The rectangular linen shades provide a splash of sophistication. They match the bases, and also allow you to set the lamps further back than round shades would, leaving more room on the nightstands for whatever else you want to put there. The opaque shades light up the room without shining light into your eyes – a smart choice.

Subtle colors: Grey, a soft yellow, dark brown and white create a sophisticated palette. The fabrics offer just enough pattern and texture to add interest. All in all, this room is designed for stylish comfort. Check it out at the Sycamore model at Warner Groves in Morrison Ranch.