a living room filled with furniture and a large window

“Not having a space you can call your own is dangerous. Everyone needs a sanctuary.”

Marie Kondo, Japanese Organizing Consultant

As Marie Kondo states, “Everyone needs a sanctuary”. When in the grasp of everyday life, returning to a stress-free space is exactly what we crave. Take a look at these 5 ways to turn a home into a sanctuary.

  1. Natural Light
a view of a living room filled with furniture and a large window

Allowing natural light to enter the home is a perfect way to set the tone for the day. Studies have shown that low levels of vitamin D have been linked with depression. Winter depressions have also been shown to be responsive to light therapy. Allow light to enter your home by swapping out dark bulky curtains for lighter colors with permeable fabric. Some choose to get rid of curtains all together for a modern and open design. Inviting light into a home creates the perfect environment for a more breathable and balanced space.

  1. Plants
a vase of flowers sits in front of a window

Plants not only look great in a home, they serve as natural filters and humidifiers to aid in the quality of air around us. In creating a proper sanctuary, having these purifiers around are sure to boost our moods and health. Popular indoor plants for air filtration include english ivy, bamboo, peace lilies, philodendron, aloe vera, snake plants, and many more. Sprinkle a few of these plants around your home in efforts of creating your perfect sanctuary.

  1. Aromatherapy 
a person standing in front of a window

A study from the Department of Nursing at Keukdong College in South Korea conducted a 4-week aromatherapy experiment on 42 college students who suffered from depression and irregular sleep patterns. The study found that students experienced decreased levels of depression and their sleep patterns improved (Lee, Inn Sook, and Gyung Joo Lee). When we first step into a space, scent is naturally one of the first things our senses take hold of. There is either a neutral smell, odd smell, or surprisingly pleasant aroma. Easy and cost-efficient ways to invite aromatherapy into a home include using diffusers or incense. You will be amazed at how adding a touch of aroma to your home can make all the difference. 

  1. Music
indoor kitchen sitting small table counter front oven microwave sink camera computer stove desk plate

Set the mood by adding some tunes in your home. Hearing your favorite song or a song that resonates with how you’re feeling at the moment is a sure way to boost your mood. Invest in some decent speakers to connect your phone to, or a record player and hunt for some records starring your favorite artists. Speakers run as low as $13 on Amazon, and record players, $39.

  1. Declutter
a kitchen with wooden cabinets and a dining table

Stress thrives in cluttered spaces. When coming home from a long and possibly stressful day at work, the last thing we want to be greeted by are the dishes from last night’s dinner or laundry that hasn’t been put away for days. By decluttering your home, you create a clean environment where everything has a place. Dedicate a day for a room in your home to declutter to rid yourself of stress and unnecessary clutter.

Works Cited

Lee, Inn Sook, and Gyung Joo Lee. “Effects of Lavender Aromatherapy on Insomnia and Depression in Women College Students.” Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing, vol. 36, no. 1, 2006, p. 136., doi:10.4040/jkan.2006.36.1.136.

“A designer has a duty to create timeless design. To be timeless you have to think really far into the future, not next year, not in two years, but in 20 years minimum.”

Philippe Starck, French Interior Designer

You loved our previous article “5 Charming Interior Designs You’ll See in 2020”. Here’s 5 more stunning interior trends. Which design(s) will you invite into your home in the new year?

  1. Modern Wood Paneling
a view of a kitchen

Wood paneling is making a comeback in 2020. Modern wood paneling provides the home with a clean cut, refreshing, and sometimes rustic aesthetic. It can be used to create texture, sleek lines, and even create three dimensional features when placed above a main backdrop. Modern wood paneling helps a space in a home stand out, especially areas such as the kitchen or bathroom. As mentioned above, this look invites a refreshing feeling into a space. With this, having them placed where food is cleaned and prepared, and where we cater to personal hygiene is ideal.

  1. Two-Toned Kitchens
a kitchen with a sink and a window

2020 interior design trends are all about creating contrast in unique or classic ways. A way to bring contrast into the home is by having a two-toned kitchen. A two-toned kitchen is a space in which the cabinets and appliances provide contrast by having two tones, a dark and a light. The great part about this look is that the color palette is completely up to your discretion. Some popular color (and texture) combinations are gray and white, black and white, stainless steel and white, wood and white, and gray and wood. With this look, any shade of your choice paired with white will work for your home. Wood is truly a great texture to incorporate into this look. As we’ve already established, wood works very well in a kitchen because it creates a refreshing aesthetic, a feeling we all love to experience in the kitchen.

  1. More Color 
a bowl of food sitting on top of a wooden table

Obtaining furniture and accessories in different shades and textures will be popular in homes in 2020, maximalism being the inspiration behind the look. Maximalism design is the art of incorporating various shades and textures that create contrast. Let’s recap on some trends that were discussed in our previous 2020 interior design article and some we’ve talked about so far in this article: (1) fine art, (2) wallpaper, (3) color and texture; all of these designs invoke the contrast and style that is maximalism. Velvet is also making a comeback this year, as many people are incorporating this texture in shades of yellow, purple, and/or orange in their homes. Experiment with these looks to see if maximalism fits your style, or if using these trends as minuet accent pieces better fit your aesthetic.

  1. Patterned Ceilings 
a bedroom with a large window

Patterned ceilings help to open up and elongate what designers call “The 5th Wall”. This can be achieved by using a range of textures or colors. Some examples include bold wallpaper, wood, or even windows. What ceiling you choose depends on the space and the feeling you want to invoke. For example, in a sunroom, the ceiling can be lined with beautiful linen in a waveform to further create a free-flowing and open space. This design can add charm to even the most beautiful spaces. We encourage you to check out Trevor Tondro’s sunroom photography that perfectly captures this stunning design.

  1. Arches
a room with a sink and a mirror

Lastly, arches make for another way to elongate and open up the space above. Made famous by the Romans thousands of years ago, this design has found its way back into the modern home. In ancient times, the Romans created archways to create larger buildings, efficient aqueducts, and to create a structure that could support the weight of the volcanic stone and other materials used in ancient architecture. (Khan Academy). In modern times, arches are simply used to create the appearance of a larger home. Curved lines appear softer to the eye in comparison with traditional straight lines, and give a home an elegant aesthetic.

Works Cited


“Roman Architecture.” Khan Academy, Khan Academy,

www.khanacademy.org/humanities/ancient-art-civilizations/roman/beginners-guide-rome/a/roman-architecture

2019 was another stellar year for the Indianapolis real estate market and the rumors are true - homes still sell in the cold months.

Year over year numbers haven't been fully released yet, but when we can take a general snapshot of what 2019 looked like compared to 2018, some of the numbers are staggering.  

The house you bought, or passed up on, in December of 2018 that was priced at $177,500 is now valued at $195,000.  Imagine that...buying a home and it essentially has paid you $17,000 to live there.  That's a great thing for sellers!  Not so great for buyers... 

There are certain price pockets that aren't moving and, if you're reading this from a house over $500,000 in value, you know what price range that is.  If you've been shopping for a house under $200,00 or, even worse, a house under $125,000, then you feel the pain that Indianapolis is suffering from - low inventory.  Really low inventory. 

Active inventory as recent as May of 2015 was 12,583 homes.  Today, it sits at under 5,000.  Builders can't build fast enough. Buyers can't offer fast enough. And the lower price range of the market in Indianapolis isn't getting better as builders are looking at communities priced above $200,000 primarily.  And anything under $200,000 has out of state (and out of country) investors interested.  Paying cash!  

So, it's still extremely competitive out there. And if you're a buyer, you need to come to the game prepared.  Shoes tied, suited up, ready to take the ball and run with it. In real estate terms - have your preapproval for a mortgage ready, your tax returns and W2s on hand for the lender, and know that the house you see for sale that's priced at $165,000 is what it will sell for.  Not for $130,000 or less, like you see on TV.  

Another interesting item to note is the growth of a perceived bubble that will burst around the US in the next 10 to 15 years.  We can thank the Boomers for this one! "OK, Boomer..."  This wonderful generation owns almost 2/3rds of the residential real estate in the good old US of A, and they are slowly starting to feel the strain of age.  Instead of moving and downsizing, however, they've remained in place.  Upping the average time in a home from around eight years to over 10 years.  What's this mean to the market?

It means, less homes to buy NOW but in the near future, a LOT of homes to buy.  And in some parts of the country, almost HALF of certain city's inventory will go on market. Either because the Boomer has passed on, or moved into assisted living or in with their own children. 

This can become a huge deal in the years to come. In fact, it's already taken a toll on the rental market, with some Boomers electing to give up on maintaining a house and moving into rentals. Which then takes away from those who needs lower cost of living residencies.  Like... Millennials.  

All in all, it's an interesting dynamic to keep our eyes one over the coming years.  In the meantime, in the Indianapolis market, unless something creates a massive slow down or the arket collapses, there still seems to be a proggressive shift month over month with regards to pricing.  And a progressive movement downward with regards to inventory. 

Authored by Josh Latham. Josh Latham is the Director is Sales for RE/MAX Advanced Realty and an Associate Broker for RE/MAX Advanced Realty and The Indy Home Pros Team.

a group of people holding wine glasses

2020, the arrival of a new decade. “This is my decade”, you tell yourself without making any plan of action. Let’s change that. We know the basic New Year’s Resolutions; you are going to exercise! You are going to eat healthier! You are going to save money! If you can do these, it’s great. We’ve even got another article to help you do just that which you can read here

But, if you are simply looking to implement a few realistic resolutions that will add small but quality improvements in your life, then you’ve come to the right place!

1. Drink More Tea

a glass of orange juice

The Brits are definitely on to something with this whole tea drinking thing. Drinking warm tea, especially at night, has been proven to boost your overall feeling of well being and contentness. 

We recommend peppermint or mint tea, tea with ginger, hibiscus, or chamomile to see which you like best!

2. Practice Patience

Do you find yourself to be rather patient until you get into your car and proceed to curse at grandmothers and teenagers alike? Actively practicing patience can lead to a better life for both you and everyone else around you.

Take control back by thinking about that person who cut you off being late to pick up their child, or think about all the times you were late. When you’re in line at the grocery store and you just can’t possibly understand why they only have 1 register open, take a deep breath. Talk to the person in front of you. Be in the moment, it’s up to you how you feel about it!

3. Stretch

When was the last time you stretched? They say your brain has 5 seconds to make up an excuse, so quick, right now, stretch before you count to five! Stretching regularly will help you avoid being more prone to common injuries to areas like your neck and back. 

4. Go For Walks Without Your Phone

When you go out without your phone to use as a crutch, you’ll inevitably experience the world in a new way. Try going for a walk outside and leaving your phone at home. Let us know how it goes!

5. Try New Foods

Ever had Ethiopian Food? Indian Food? Make this year the year you branch out! Trying new things is scientifically proven to make you cooler, and taking your friends out for Ethiopian is sure to be a hit! 

We suggest Axum in Downtown Indianapolis or St. Yared Ethiopian in Geist

2019 is quickly coming to a close, and it’s the time of the year to reflect and create goals for the new year. If purchasing your dream home is one of your goals this 2020, here are some New Year’s Resolutions you can implement into your lifestyle to keep your financial resume in tiptop shape and prepare you for your dream home.

Avoid Changing Careers

Employment history, alongside income, will be a major factor during your mortgage application evaluation. While a new job could be a good career move, most evaluators are looking for a steady job history with little to no gaps in your employment over the last few years.

Focus on Building Your Credit

--- Check Your Credit Score

Your Credit Score determines your creditworthiness; which banks and lenders use to determine if you qualify for a loan, at what interest rate, and what credit limit. 

Be sure to monitor your credit closely. If you’re unsure of your credit score, there are numerous financial websites that offer credit score monitoring. Plus, most of these credit sites will tell you what impacts your credit most. Be wiser this coming new year and change your spending habits. If you have large debts negatively impacting your credit, get started on a payoff plan so your score can improve.

--- Build A Solid Credit History

The first thing that a lender will check is your credit history.  Create a solid credit history by paying off debts and paying bills on time. Borrowers who have a history of paying off credit cards and other debts on time are preferred by lenders; as this signifies that you are less of a risk and a responsible borrower.

No credit yet? Don’t be disheartened. Securing a home loan can be more challenging and time-consuming, but not impossible. Your potential lender can look into your history of managing monthly payments and gauge if you are a responsible borrower through your on-time payment of rent and utilities, student loan debt or cell phone bills.

Cut Down Expenses. Create a Budget and Stick to it. 

Is there a monthly expense you can possibly cut down? The monthly subscriptions that you don’t actually use for example? How about limiting dining out and only buying things that are necessary?

--- Cut Down on Monthly Subscriptions

Although convenient, monthly subscription services can add up and you could be dinged for high credit utilization if your credit report is pulled midcycle even if you pay off your credit card every month.

Limit your monthly subscription services to those you ACTUALLY NEED.  Do you really need a cable subscription these days? 

--- Spend Wisely

How many times do you eat out? According to Business Insider, people in Indiana spend an average of $2,241 on dining out (Business Insider (2019): Here's what the average person spends on dining out in every state)This amount can already be thrown towards your down payment fund. So instead of eating out, pack your lunch. Not only do you save money, but you can also prepare healthy meals. 

---  Avoid Large Purchases

REMEMBER THE GOAL: BUY YOUR DREAM HOME! Don’t take on large amounts of debt- may it be a vacation or buying a car - before buying a house. 

Your debt-to-income ratio plays a pivotal role in your loan approval. If you make large purchases, the ratio could sway in the wrong direction. 

Just like anything worth having, preparing to buy your dream home won't be easy. You will have to make adjustments and sacrifices to achieve your goal. Luckily, there are many online tools and resources you can use to aid you in determining the factors necessary in buying a home, such as the Motto Mortgage Experts menu of home loan calculator that will give you an idea of how much home you can afford as well as provide custom down payment estimates based on home price and interest rates.

a person taking a selfie in a city

“If you make customers unhappy in the physical world, they might each tell 6 friends. If you make customers unhappy on the Internet, they can each tell 6,000 friends.”

Jeff Bezos, Amazon CEO

Social media has become the new mass media and a vital tool for businesses to promote their products and/or services, and connect with potential customers across the globe. From luxury car brands such as Lamborghini, to local businesses in the city, social media plays a key factor in what puts their business ahead of the curb. Check out these 5 statistics that help explain why social media packs a punch in the business world. 

  1. There are now 3.2 billion social media users around the globe. That is about 42% of our total present population (Emarsys, 2019).
a person sitting on a bench

With such a vast audience, social media presents a platform to reach billions of people. This platform enables businesses to connect with people of different ages, backgrounds, and cities to promote their products and/or services. Integrating social media into one’s business plan plays a vital role in the outcome of success. For example, Lamborghini, along with other luxury automobile brands, do not invest in commercials to promote their products, but they do utilize social media platforms such as Instagram to connect people to their cars. 

  1. 73% of marketers believe that their efforts through social media marketing have been “somewhat effective” or “very effective” for their business (Buffer, 2019).
a group of people standing in a room

Social media is one of (if not the most) effective way to market products and services. How one implements social media for a business will predict the possible impact . If a user is inconsistent and/or has content that lacks luster, chances are that many people will not be interested in that page. On the other hand, if a page has quality content, and is engaging, more people are willing to follow that page, interact with the user and their posts, and share the content with others. This allows the business to connect with users who support the product or services provided and also expand their audience. Even if the user only wants to post once a month, if they keep the content engaging, it can still help promote their business.

  1. 49% of consumers claim that they depend on influencer recommendations on social media to inform their purchasing decision (Four Communications, 2018).
a laptop computer sitting on top of a desk

Before investing in a product or service it is not uncommon for people to rush over to YouTube to watch unboxing tutorials and/or product reviews. Viewing these videos and reading the comments allows potential buyers to get a feel for a possible purchase. They are able to see the product be removed from its packaging and get a virtual first look. If the person reviewing the product is unhappy with their purchase and is able to show what makes it unappealing, potential buyers are likely to be persuaded by the person reviewing the product, and will change their minds on following through with the purchase. On the other hand, if a product receives lots of praise during its unboxing, potential customers are more likely to purchase the product.

  1. 366 million new people started using social media in the past year. That’s more than a million new people joining social media every single day (Hootsuite, 2109).a group of people around each other 

Currently, social media is occupied by 42% of the world’s population, and it is likely this number will continue to increase. Social media has become the new mass media and has taken the world by storm, a digital amalgamation of print, audio, and television. This makes social media the easiest way to connect with people across the globe. If a business wishes to expand its audience and reach more clients, using platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, etc, will allow that company to bring in customers from various areas of the world and aid in strengthening their business image.

  1. Digital consumers spend nearly 2.5 hours on social networks and social messaging every day (Hootsuite, 2109).
a person using a laptop computer

Every day, people spend almost 3 hours browsing through various social media platforms. What does this mean for businesses? It means that everyday, businesses have a 2.5 hour window to connect potential clients to their products and/or services. They may choose to advertise with an eye catching graphic, quality video, funny tweet, etc. Even if they miss that 2.5 hour window they are still able to create a timeline or feed that viewers can look back on. Carefully curating this feed helps a business present themselves well and essential serves as a digital resume for their work. 

a room that has a sign on a wall

“Design is coming to grips with one's real lifestyle, one's real place in the world. Rooms should not be put together for show but to nourish one's well-being.” - Albert Hadley

Check out these 6 tips to help your home feel more spacious.

  1. Use Light Colors to Your Advantage
a kitchen with an island in the middle of a room

Light walls will help bounce outside light throughout a home. Lightly-colored walls can also create contrast with darker objects in a space, thus creating more depth. Opt for painting walls light shades such as an eggshell white, ivory, beige, or soft a gray; any soft shade will do. Objects that could help generate contrast in comparison to the shade of the walls include darker chairs, appliances, shelves, photo frames, and/or a dark backsplash. Glass light fixtures will also blend well with the walls to eliminate the possibility of a cluttered space.

  1. Invest in Storage Furniture

Furniture that doubles up as a storage unit serve as a great way to organize a space with style. They come in various designs and sizes, and can easily fit the aesthetic of any home. Storage benches are a popular piece of multifunctional furniture that can be used for storage, décor, and as a seating area. Place decorative items such as pillows or flowers on top to add simple detail to this space.

  1. Replace Bulky Curtains with Light & Sheer Curtains (Or No Curtains)

Bulky dark curtains block light and eat up space. Switch these curtains out for lightly-colored and sheer curtains. This will allow light to enter your home easily and will also blend very well with light walls. Ditching curtains all together is also a great look and allows for maximum light penetration for a well-illuminated home.

  1. Opt for Larger & Fewer Decorative Pieces

Having a large amount of small decorative items can overwhelm a space and clutter a home. Replace these items with larger and fewer decorative items such as a plant, vase, art piece, or a stack of 3 medium-sized books. These items will help decorate a space without creating a cluttered environment. 

  1. Use Large Mirrors to Eliminate Shadows and Build Space

Mirrors help create a window of space by eliminating barriers and masquerading as additional space in a home. They help highlight dark areas and take little to no effort to set up. Search for large mirrors to help create the illusion of a more spacious area in the home. Having a dark frame can also help generate contrast and depth. 

  1. Don’t Overcrowd a Space with Furniture 

Less is more when it comes to decorating a space. Don’t feel pressured to purchase traditional (and outdated) bedroom furniture such as a large dresser, 2 bulky bedside night stands, a massive amour, chairs, a bench, large TV, etc. There are ways to have a proper bedroom set up that fits your style without the clutter. First, exchange dressers with storage units that slide under the bed. Next, choose one thing over another. For example, chair(s) or a bench for the end of the bed? If you can mount a TV to the wall, go for it. Unmounted TVs require a (often large) piece of furniture for it to be placed on. Eliminate the possibility of eating up space with unnecessary furniture by opting for options that don’t need it. This also goes for lighting. Get rid of bulky night stands by purchasing floor lights. If you need bedside storage, 3-tied storage carts are great options for conserving space and adding style.

a sign on a counter

The term “minimalist” has developed both a positive and negative reputation. On one end of the spectrum, minimalism is seen as extreme and unrealistic for the modern world. On the other end, minimalism is described as a way to rid oneself of excess items and create a lifestyle centered around living free from the stresses of everyday life. Instead of placing the term on either end of the spectrum, how do we take the practices of minimalism and fit those ideals into the modern world? 

  1. Reduce the Size and/or Amount of Furniturebird

Living a clutter-free life plays a key role in a minimalist lifestyle. The questions is: how does minimalism define “clutter”? Extreme minimalists assign the word clutter to items such as couches, TVs, and even a bed for some. For the modern minimalist, getting rid of these items is out of the question. Instead of removing these items, try opting for smaller designs that allow for more space in the home.

For example, get rid of bulky bed frames and headboards that consume 90 percent of your bedroom. Also, don’t follow the traditional bedroom set up of needing two large night stands, a dresser, bench for the end of the bed, etc. Follow this same ideology for other areas of the home. Opt for pieces that don’t take up unnecessary space and don’t feel pressured to follow traditional housing decor. 

  1. Clean Up Financial Cluttera screenshot of a cell phone

Living a minimalist lifestyle can also seep over into finances. How can minimalism help with this? In the modern world, there’s a price tag attached to practically everything.

There’s monthly dues to access a gym, an itch to order item after item off of Amazon, and a never-ending list of video streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, Starz, HBO, Youtube TV, and most recently, Disney Plus.

A modern minimalist understands that indulging in all of these services at once isn’t good for their well-being or their pockets. Clean up this financial clutter by limiting yourself to two or three of these services, or by not paying such a high amount for one.

For example, don’t overpay for a gym membership, especially if you’re not consistent with your schedule. Don’t be fooled by the glitz and glamor one gym might offer, when there is a gym with a lower membership fee that only offers only what you really need. Having 4+ video streaming services is extremely unnecessary.

People opt for these services because they believe it is cheaper than having traditional cable, but having a large number of streaming services can add up the the very bill you were trying to avoid.  

  1. Create an Environment Fit for Creativity & Productivitya screenshot of a cell phone

A quote from Zaha Hadid reads, “Architecture is really about well-being. I think that people want to feel good in a space”. Minimalist or not, this “well-being” is what everyone strives for in their life; everyone wants to feel good in a space.

Following the rules of modern minimalism can easily help achieve this balance. By ridding a space of clutter and giving everything a place through organization, you can create an environment fit for true well-being. We’ve already discussed what is defined as clutter and the steps you can take to reduce it, but what about organization?

First, let’s talk about why organization is even needed. Imagine you are at a party. There’s drinks, music, and you seem to be having a great time. Suddenly, out of nowhere, you space out from the party, your stomach drops, and think to yourself, “Where’s my birth certificate?”. Why these sporadic thoughts pop up at the most unconventional times, who knows.

However, through proper organization you can help alleviate these random bits of stress and anxiety. Organization does not have to be an extreme sport. The first step is to shred that mountain of mail that grows in strength every day and the last step is to find a place for what needs to stay.

Purchase some inexpensive clear draws to store items, but be sure to not shove excessive items in. By having a space clear of clutter and giving needed items a home, you have created a space fit for productivity and well-being.

  1. Develop a Better Understanding of True Value

One of the biggest lessons minimalism has to offer is understanding what holds true value in your life. The things that clutter our mind and home takes a toll on our overall well-being. Through minimalism, you can help discover what brings you happiness, then rid yourself of the things that don’t. With this, you reduce the items that clutter both your physical and mental space. Though modern minimalism, you can create a space fit for balance, well-being, and an environment free from the stress of the modern world.

a bridge over water with a city in the background

Get out and celebrate the season with these 5 Unique Winter Activites in Indy!

1) A Merry Prairie Holiday at Connor Prairie

TOUR: See classic Conner Prairie by Candlelight favorites, like Dr. Campbell’s Soiree, the disgruntled Mr. Fenton, Mr. Whitaker’s Store, and the Curtis family making Christmas preparations. And so Much More!a room filled with furniture and a fire place sitting in a chair   

 2) Winterlights at Newfields

"It's very merry. It's really bright. Winterlights returns for a third year, making it an official holiday tradition in Central Indiana. Create even more memories this season with friends and family as you stroll through our spectacular Winter Wonderland, sip apple cider or hot chocolate (spiked options are available for adults) and make s’mores over a fire pit."a lit up city at night

3) Christmas Morning Breakfast Ordered from Goose The Market

Focus on your family this Christmas and let Goose The Market do the cooking! 

Cranberry Orange Scones, Cinnamon Coffee Cake, Bacon, and much more! See the Full Menu herea slice of pizza sitting on top of a wooden cutting board

4) Circle of Lights, Monument Circle

Visit Monument Circle Downtown anytime between now and January 11th and experience The World's Tallest Christmas Tree! This beautiful sight is absolutely a must see for people of all ages!a screen shot of a person

5) Christmas Nights of Lights at The Indiana State Fairgrounds

Brand new this year! Indy's largest sychronized light show! Bring you car and enjoy the drive though this Winter Wonderland of Lights!a close up of a light

Like this article? Read more from our blog

Thinking about Buying or Selling? Learn more here!

a room filled with furniture and a large window

 “Learn to look not just with your eyes but with your heart. Find the things that connect with you. How else will you know how to design your home?” 

Kelly Hoppen, Interior Designer

2020 is here and the interior design trends serve as the breath of fresh air we need. Here are 5 charming interior designs you will see (and love) in the new year.

  1. Pantone Color of the Year: Classic Blue
indoor sitting table room small front desk wooden large bed vase clock mirror computer television display living cat man standing night

Classic Blue has been named 2020's Color of the Year by Pantone. Pantone hopes to capture a piece of 90s charm in choosing a color close to the Color of the Year from 1999, Cerulean. Cerulean is a rich blue hue that resembles clear blue skies and is Pantone’s first Color of the Year. Pantone says the shade Classic Blue offers reassurance in a time of instability and uncertainty, a feeling weighing on the shoulders of countries across the globe. In welcoming this color in your home, you welcome a sense of peace and tranquility.

  1. Fine Art
a painting on the wall

Adorning your home with fine art is up and trending. Artwork such as busts and paintings are key pieces in this design. A popular way to integrate a bust into your home by placing it on a stack of books. Large design, fashion, and/or photography books seem to be preferred for this look, but as anything else, it is up to your discretion. Paintings can be hung using minimalistic photo frames or whatever frame you feel best suits the aesthetic of your home. Purchasing art doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. On Amazon, you can purchase beautiful busts for under 25 dollars and replicates of famous paintings such as Van Gogh’s Cafe Terrace at Night for 12 dollars. Having fine art in your home makes for a beautiful design that doesn’t have to break the bank.

  1. Modern Wallpaper
a cup of coffee

Wallpaper has made a comeback, but in moderation. Minimalistic wallpaper, floral in particular, will be a popular wall design in 2020. However, there are some who are making bold statements by installing exuberant patterns and colors to serve as accent walls. These accent walls have been installed in bathrooms, below staircases, or in a bedroom. They can be a great way to add contrast in a space with beautiful colors and patterns.

  1. Classic Designs      a living room filled with furniture and a fire place

Classic designs are also making a comeback. This look includes light walls, with darker furniture and pieces to provide contrast. The classic look also has a modern feel to it, as nothing is over the top or in excess. Interior design trends for 2020 seem to be stemming from a time of simplicity. In a time of, as Pantone describes it, instability and uncertainty, inviting simplicity and comfort into the space we cherish most will allow us to escape from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.

  1. Real (Not Fake) Indoor Plants
a living room filled with furniture and a fire place

Plants have always been a popular choice of decor throughout the years for many homes, but owning real plants is one of the interior design trends for 2020. If drawing from old designs such as Pantone’s first Color of the Year from 1999, and classic aesthetics, welcome a sense of peace in a period of instability, what can these plants offer? One theory could be that they are becoming a staple in homes for 2020 due to growing concerns of climate change. With our air becoming more polluted, having functional plants can help filter the air in our home. There is debate on whether they are sufficient enough to filter a large percentage of toxins out of the air, but there is no harm in sprinkling a few in the home to help combat some pollutants.

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