Dining rooms have changed a lot over the last few decades in how they are used. Dining rooms aren't supposed to be fancy anymore and are only used for essential events. Pros say that eating rooms today are much friendlier and lighter.
Here, three interior designers talk about five parts of the dining room they think are outdated. Most are about being fancy and formal, which isn't needed in homes nowadays. Read on to find out what furniture you should eliminate immediately from your dining room.
According to Ellerslie Interiors founder, Laura Lubin, traditional dining rooms with hefty tables and matching chairs are obsolete. Luxury sets are now excessively stiff and uninviting in modern homes.
Eve Jean, Style My Space Design's founder, agrees with Lubin. Jean thinks it might feel like a furniture store frozen when everything matches. Designers advise against being confined to one style when purchasing dining room furniture. Mixing styles or comfortable seats promotes conversation over formality.
Make sure your dining room has different textures. Kaylee Pauley, Interiors founder, says a wood-carved dining table with contemporary upholstered or antique host seats adds a richer design narrative.
Lubin mentioned the weight of traditional dining tables, which Jean also wants to avoid in modern environments. Jean thinks the bulky hardwood sets were fine in formal dining rooms, but waste space in open-concept homes. She suggests elegant, mixed-material tables to prevent a boardroom-like dining room.
Lubin deems more than matching dining sets overly formal for modern environments. She advises against dining room chandeliers that were once large and elaborate. These previous fixtures now feel too grand and may control the area, which goes against the current minimalism and simplicity trend. Lubin suggests buying more subdued fixtures for a cleaner, more comfortable look.
Pauley says formal window curtains are another unnecessary accent in modern dining rooms. She says thick cloth and valances block natural light, making the dining room look old-fashioned. The designer recommends simple Roman shades or linen panels, which look attractive and let natural light in.
Wall-to-wall carpeting was once used in several dining rooms, but Lubin dislikes it for several reasons. She says it's hard to maintain and not the sleek, easy-to-clean surfaces that homeowners prefer. Instead, she says one can choose from hardwood, tile, or area rugs. Since food can fall from the table onto the floor, washable area rugs are usually a good idea. Many merchants now sell attractive, easy-to-clean dining room rugs.
Dining rooms today are no longer about rigid formality or ornate displays; they’re about warmth, comfort, and functionality. As designers point out, the old staples of heavy furniture, oversized chandeliers, and stiff matching sets don’t fit the way modern families live. Instead, lighter pieces, mixed textures, and simple accents create spaces that feel inviting and practical. By letting go of outdated traditions and embracing a more relaxed approach, homeowners can transform their dining rooms into places that encourage conversation, connection, and everyday enjoyment.
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The dining room is where you and your loved ones can get together for a delicious meal and a refreshing conversation. Since this is where you create memories, it is essential that a dining room's design be perfect to facilitate discussion and bring people together.
Several designers were interviewed about dining room design blunders and how to avoid them to help create a harmonious space.
Here are some mistakes you need to know and how to avoid dining room design mistakes:
When adding a round table to the dining area of your home, ensure that it is not too large to facilitate conversation with all the people coming to dinner. Choose a smaller round table to avoid interrupting your discussion with people passing food around.
According to interior designer Cristina Kim (founder of Christina Kim Interior Design), if you use a round table, it can feel intimate and cozy at the same time. But, if the round table measures 6 in diameter, passing some food or conversing with other people may become difficult.
Setting a rug in your dining room that is too small for the seat's legs will make the room appear smaller and more segmented in form. This is especially true if your dining room has hardwood or tile flooring.
According to Kim, every time you pull out a chair, it will feel like a mistake that you chose a rug that is too small to fit all the legs of your chairs. The transition from wood floors to rugs will feel awkward, and the room will look choppy and smaller than it is.
The furniture's size and shape significantly impact the degree to which the space feels expansive and comfortable while retaining a sense of coziness and intimacy. A space that is well-balanced and inviting must certainly have the appropriate scale.
According to interior designer Charles Almonte (founder of Charles Almonte Architecture | Interior Design), considering how big the room is compared to the furniture is crucial. This is not just for consuming rooms; it is a basic rule of interior design. He added, "A dining vignette that’s too small for a room will feel Lilliputian. A dining table that’s too big will make the room feel claustrophobic and unwelcoming."
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According to interior designer Ellie Mroz (founder of Ellie Mroz Design), selecting the appropriate table shape for your dining room can help encourage conversation with your family and/or friends. Consider the room's shape when choosing the best table shape: square, oval, or oblong. Mroz also advises considering the size of the table and chairs to ensure sufficient space and easy movement within the table.
5. Having A Matching Dining Room Set
If you want to express your personal style in your dining room, it is recommended not to purchase from one place only. Almonte says mixing and matching is fine when not buying a dining room set. It gives the room its style. Add new, old, and rare items to mix things up. The other people at the table will talk about it.
If you do not provide sufficient traffic flow for visitors, they will be unable to move around comfortably and have difficulty getting in and out of their chairs. According to Kim, leaving enough space around your table and chairs is crucial for people to move around. It doesn't matter how big the table is if your friends can't move around the room effortlessly.
Almonte recommends, "Buying a dining room set is so impersonal; it’s okay to mix and match. It gives the room a personality. Mix it up with antiques, vintage, and new pieces. It’ll be a conversation starter around the table."
7. Having Built-In Seating
Built-in seating, such as banquettes and benches, leaves no room for flexibility regarding accommodating guests in terms of seating arrangements. According to Almonte, this feature doesn't work well with the rest of the space's needs. People are only allowed to sit around the table in specific numbers. If you want to add one or two more chairs to the dinner table, move the big bench out of the way.
Which of these mistakes have you made in your dining room? How did you make your dining room layout better?
We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
As more people choose to work from home, there has never been a greater demand for a dedicated and elegant home office space. A well-designed home office not only showcases your style but also helps you accomplish more work.
If you're looking for guidance on designing your home office or a property that aligns with the latest office design trends and offers sufficient space, we at RE/MAX Advanced Realty can help you find what you need.
As remote work becomes increasingly popular, the dedicated office space floor area affects buying decisions. A prominent location must be converted into a functional home office for remote work. This shift highlights the integration of practical workplace design concepts into your home.
A well-designed office arrangement not only makes long workdays more comfortable but also enhances the beauty of your home. Designing an efficient and attractive office that adheres to current office design trends is more than just measuring square footage; it involves considering the overall aesthetic and functionality.
Well-being is increased when working remotely in a comfortable setting. Here are eight components that your home office must have to make this idea a reality and increase productivity:
A comfortable desk chair is essential when designing an office. Traditional, modern, and contemporary designs have worth. Beyond looks, it's about comfort and ergonomics. Buying an ergonomic chair is vital for office furnishings. With hundreds of office chair features and options, you may choose one that meets your needs.
A comfortable seat helps improve your posture and overall comfort. Ergonomic chairs should fit your body and office workstation. The best desk chairs enable tasks:
Ideas for design can affect desk versatility. A modern desk can inspire your office decor with clean lines, or a traditional desk with echoes of the past. With this concept, you need the right office space in a new home. Your design can feature a dining table, a kitchen table, or a tall coffee table. These ergonomic tools help prevent hand strain from prolonged typing, and placing a monitor at eye level helps avoid neck strain and its associated discomfort.
Any office design relies on lighting. The quality and quantity of illumination offer several benefits. It improves mood, productivity, and eyesight. Warm natural light makes a room happier than fluorescent or overhead lighting. Natural light from a window can rejuvenate and soothe you, especially if you see a beautiful skyline or a quiet neighborhood.
Another energy and heat-efficient technique for illuminating a work surface is adjustable task lighting. When working late or on cloudy days, a good desk or floor lamp helps you focus the light. Consult a lighting professional for recommendations on desk lamps or overhead lighting that create a relaxing atmosphere. Lights are an investment that can set the tone for a home office.
Decluttering increases productivity and reduces stress. Clean offices improve mental health. It's about creating a setting that minimizes distractions and boosts creativity without sacrificing style, rather than relying solely on white walls or open floor space. To keep documents, office supplies, and office equipment, there are many inventive and effective methods.
Built-in cabinets or elegant storage boxes can combine office design trends with utility. Desk organizers and cabinets help organize stationery and documents, improving workflow. Find ideas from your local office supply and furniture store. List your top functionality priorities. Numerous stylish and inventive storage options are available.
Eliminating unsightly cables is a valuable workplace design tip. Cable management is essential in our tech-driven world. Everyone in the office struggles with tangled wires. Cable management improves workspace safety and efficiency. Storage accessories, such as shelves, cabinets, and desk organizers, can enhance performance and appeal. A great workplace design uses vertical space on a wall for decorative or functional shelving.
Your office not only functions but also shows your creativity. Enjoyable aspects inspire your daily routine. Consider it as creating a motivating environment.
Practical tech tools and a well-organized home office complement each other. Staying on top of digital advances was crucial for remote workers to remain productive and streamline their tasks. High-speed internet powers modern home offices. Real-time project management, cloud-based collaborations, and online meetings require a strong internet connection. A high-speed internet connection and provider are essential for success.
Upgrade your PC, as that tool and its attachments significantly impact your daily tasks and efficiency. A fast computer, an ergonomic keyboard, and a high-resolution monitor all boost productivity. Although not required, smart home integration modernizes a traditional office. Just imagine operating your office lighting, temperature, and coffee machine with your voice. Office integrations bring style and convenience.
Having a peaceful workspace is essential. Noise disrupts focus and productivity. It's a good idea to soundproof your office. Foam tiles or acoustic panels can greatly minimize street and family noise.
Modern office workers, especially those without a dedicated workplace area, value noise-canceling headphones. The instant calm zone these headphones provide lets you work and focus. Headsets are great for quiet time and productivity.
Working without rest causes burnout. Well-planned office design includes occasional respites to keep the mind sharp and creativity flowing. Every office needs a comfortable corner. Relaxation should be part of the home office design, whether it's a bean bag or an ergonomic chair.
A mini-fridge or coffee station beautifies your workspace. You can stay in your office with nearby refreshments. By incorporating plants and a soothing design, your office becomes a tranquil haven. Natural elements, color, art, and a little waterfall can revamp a room.
Adaptability is crucial in changing times. Your home office should meet current and future needs. Whether you change careers, technology, or office design, your space must adapt. Creating a flexible workspace is crucial. Use L-shaped desks with movable shelves, or turn a favorite dining room table into a workstation. If you design your workplace well and your work needs change, you can adapt rapidly.
Investing in modular PCs or monitors with flexible connectivity options keeps you and your office current with the latest technology. Cloud-based solutions integrate across devices, keeping you connected and updated. Many professionals are exploring hybrid work arrangements due to the global shift toward remote employment, which offers versatility and the best of both worlds.
Today's profession requires a well-designed and equipped home office. Our talented agents realize that remote work and office design are essential factors in house searches. Good lighting, organization, and design help you perform at your best.
It also involves using technology, soundproofing, design concepts, and ergonomics to increase performance. Our property listings in your selected area will help you shape your home office space or find homes with built-in offices.
Oh, the joy of organizing a home.
As soon as you're done cleaning one area, another part seems cluttered. Don't hold it against yourself if this happens often; there may be design errors and defects at play that make it more difficult to maintain a clean home.
What are these design errors that cause clutter? And what are the most effective ways to fix them?
Experts in interior design responded to questions with tons of ideas for creating the most orderly home you've ever had.
Meet The Pros
Jodi Peterman - The owner and CEO of Elizabeth Erin Designs, a New Jersey-based company
Lana Wear - The creator and CEO of HomeWear Designs, a home staging and design firm based in the Hamptons and New York City.
If the first thing you notice when you enter your home is that there is nowhere to put your belongings, then it is likely that your home's design has mistakes and is extremely cluttered.
Lana War, an interior designer and stager, says she sees a massive pile of shoes, bags, and mail when there isn't a room or place intended to store these things. If you walk in, that's the first thing you see, and it's not a good start.
There are easy ways to make this part of your home look better, like adding a bench with storage or a small set of boxes. You can make it fancier by putting down a console table or cabinet with hooks or a bin for umbrellas and a catch tray for keys and other small things.
Corner cabinets in the kitchen can be tough to keep clean. An interior designer, Jodi Peterman, says that corner cabinets with no pull-outs are great for storing things and collecting trash. Things get pushed in and abandoned since you can't get to anything.
There are better options, like replacing the closet or changing its layout, so it can fit pull-outs or lazy Susans. When that happens, things get thrown in and never come out. If you can't attach a lazy Susan, store small, once-in-a-while items in the room. Place everyday items in a central location elsewhere.
Despite being in your kitchen, these drawers gather items and clutter from all corners of your home.
Wear claims that they are all aware of what takes place in deep, disorganized drawers—they turn into junk drawers, where items end up dying. Preventing a drawer from becoming an archaeological excavation site becomes more difficult the deeper it gets.
When talking about deep drawers, organization is essential. Use drawer organizers such as dividers, bins, or tiered organizers to understand better what's concealed within.
If your kitchen has a lot of furniture and fixtures that aren't helping you keep your home organized, it can become cluttered. According to Peterman, old kitchen desks with hutch cabinets are some of the worst offenders. What was supposed to be a cute desk was a place to drop keys, collect junk mail, and store bread.
Consider getting a new cabinet or desk with many shelves and drawers to replace this one if you want to start over. With glass-front doors and shorter shelves, you'll be more likely to keep it clean, and it won't get too cluttered for comfortable use.
Additionally, she said that if you only have one, clean out the closet, decorate it, and use the desk as a place to serve or make coffee. Don't let that clutter stay, and give it a reason.
Open shelving looks nice, but it's not always the best choice. It's easy to put things down and then forget to move them, so open spaces tend to get cluttered.
If her clients want to keep it to pretty pieces, Peterman tells them to change it with the seasons and hide the rest behind closed doors. You can't handle your open shelves in other places besides your kitchen. According to Wear, kids' rooms don't have properly styled shelves, so baskets or decorative bins are used to keep toys in order.
Every home needs a drop zone, whether you enter through the front door, the back door, or the mudroom.
There's no need to make a mess here by leaving your shoes, coats, bags, and keys. According to Peterman, keys, bags, and shoes are everywhere if there's nowhere to put them.
It's incredible how much of a difference a simple side table with baskets underneath and strategically placed hooks can make in the daily chaos. To make things easier, you should have places to put your things away, like shoe boxes, hampers, and catch trays, near every doorway in your home.
Are you looking to give your living space a facelift without entirely emptying your bank account? It is not necessary to have a designer budget to make a statement. We sent a question to respected designers, asking them to share their go-to improvements that effortlessly elevate any room.
These inexpensive ideas for transforming a living room offer instant flair and personality to your room and won't require renovations. They range from weekend-friendly DIY changes to quick fixes.
If you want your fireplace to make your living room look better, choose one that is stylish and not too practical. To change the look of something quickly and cheaply, paint it. To match the color of the tile hearth in the living room above, Cindy McKay, founder of Cindy McKay Interiors, painted the fireplace black.
There was a lot of light and airflow in the room, so McKay wanted to add something to ground the area. In that space, she loves how it makes me feel. The warmth and comfort it gives to this living area are incredible. An elegant choice for a fireplace is black paint, but white or grey paint is also a good idea.
A big 8x10 or 9x12 wool rug will hurt your wallet, but rugs are an excellent option to make a living room feel more elegant when you elevate. One simple option is to layer rugs, which is a trick designers love to make a room look better without costing a lot.
Start with a basic sisal rug that won't break the bank. You may add a statement rug, like a bright Turkish kilim, a soft wool, or a shaped cowhide hide. Putting them together makes a smooth, layered look that is both put-together and cozy and won't break the bank.
If you've ever looked at designer sitting rooms, you may have noticed that designers like McKay use pairs of chairs or ottomans. McKay says there's something about a pair that makes you want to stay for a while. Our lives are so busy that taking the time to talk to someone you care about feels like a treat. They also make a room look so balanced and symmetrical.
Take this as a reminder to get an armchair that goes with it or, for a cheaper choice, a pair of ottomans that go with it. When placed across from your couch, two ottomans will instantly add polish and make your living room look professionally designed.
Many people forget to use window treatments because they are too expensive. However, they make any room look better. Choose cheap woven roller shades and put them on top of regular rod-hung drapes for a great, low-cost option. Two low-cost treatments can give your room a rich, luxurious look, similar to the rug layers trick above.
McKay says the weaving shades are simple to pull up or down, but the windows look empty without the drapes. Both of these things are very important for the windows to look good and have a place in the room.
A potted plant could be a good way to add visual interest to a room without spending much money on art. In a room, a potted plant, like a tall, shiny rubber plant or a delicate, fluffy Parlor Palm, is one of the best ways to add architectural interest.
Furthermore, a beautiful plant can usually be found for less than $150, though this depends on where you shop. Picking the right pot is just as important as the plant itself. Pick a pot that goes with the style of your room, whether it's a colorful, modern pot, a woven basket with handles, or a clay piece that looks like it was made in a studio.
If you paint it white or grey, your living room will look new again. Choose a more vibrant color. A room can look much brighter when the walls are covered with bright colors. You can also put furniture and art against them to make them stand out.
Start with blue or green paint if you don't know what color to use. Bluish and green colors, on the other hand, tend to feel more natural and comforting than brighter colors like red or purple. You can easily use these colors because they are like the ones outside your window and can be found in trees, water, and the sky.
A poorly planned kitchen is the worst thing that can happen in your home. For instance, squeaky cabinets and dull paint may take away the joy of cooking. It's easy to feel stuck in the kitchen you've been given because the floor plan and room layout are such firm things.
But you have choices, even if you don't have the money or time to make significant improvements. You can make even the most awful kitchen plans feel useful and, dare we say it, stylish. The trick: just talk to the pros.
The following is a list of the layouts that interior designers consider to be the most challenging to deal with, along with numerous suggestions on how you should layout a kitchen.
Our trusted designers say that the small kitchen, especially its dead-end version, is one of the worst design choices for a kitchen.
Although they're popular, they rank so low for several reasons. According to Jodi Peterman, the owner and CEO of Elizabeth Erin Designs, "When the fridge or stove is trapped at the end of a narrow run, you’re constantly doubling back and bumping into people." It slows down traffic and makes preparing meals feel like a mess.
Sometimes, both ends of a galley kitchen are open, making it feel less closed off. Another expert at Planner 5D based in New York, they can save room in smaller homes, but she also thinks they can make it harder to move around in your home.
The Workaround
If you have a galley kitchen, the most important thing is to make the room look bigger, even if you can't move things around. To make it look more spacious, Peterman says: "Keep counters as clear as possible, add wall-mounted storage to free up space, and swap heavy cabinet doors for open shelving to give the illusion of breathing room."
You can do more things if you have more freedom with building and changes. It's also possible to make the kitchen move better by opening up one side or adding pull-out shelves, and using light colors and mirrors will make the room look bigger.
One-wall kitchens are another type that causes more problems than it solves. The layout is pretty straightforward, which usually consists of just one wall of cabinets and tables, which makes it harder to work and store things.
We all have a reason for the way their kitchen looks. Single-wall choices are less expensive, easier for do-it-yourselfers to build, and can fit in smaller spaces. But they are hard to do because of problems with organization and usefulness.
The Workaround
A countertop and a set of shelves are usually on the same wall. As a result, you'll need to make better use of the things you have and combine storage options.
Moszczynski suggests maximizing vertical storage with tall cabinets and using a mobile island for extra prep space.
If you have lower cabinets, consider installing open shelving to create more room for plates, cups, and cookware. Although this doesn't change the kitchen's shape, it adds much-needed storage.
Tall cabinets and a mobile bench can help you get more prep space, according to Moszczynski. Putting in open shelves could help you get more plates, cups, and cooking tools if your cabinets are low. As long as this doesn't change the shape of the kitchen, it will be even better.
Kitchens almost always have corners. However, certain kitchens have those sneaky places that aren't meant to be used.
Peterman claims: "These awkward diagonal corners have wasted cabinets that no one can reach into without feeling like they’re playing Twister.
The Workaround
Avoiding this type of kitchen may be the best solution. Instead of trying to fix these cabinets, use simpler kitchen organization alternatives.
Rather than stuffing corners, Peterman suggests using them as showcase shelves or decorating them with art or home decor. Invest in sophisticated pull-out organizers elsewhere to avoid impossible cabinet spaces.
You should always praise the kitchen island—right-sized and well-placed islands. A vital cooking room design item can become a barrier if it's too big or placed poorly. According to Peterman, it becomes an obstacle rather than a place where people gather.
The Workaround
She advises keeping it clutter-free, using backless stools that tuck in, and adding wonderful pendant lighting to balance the visual weight. Consider how movement can benefit your kitchen.
Make it your prep station if you need more space.
Make it a modest dining nook if it's too far away.
You cannot change the footprint and focus on making it intentional and easy to traverse. Start with function, then add design to make it fit.
Open-concept kitchens are in demand because open-plan homes are becoming more trendy. These large rooms create good flow and simplify moving between sections and activities. Closed-off kitchens often do the opposite.
"A closed-off kitchen can isolate the cook and can make the space feel smaller," says Moszczynski.
The Workaround
To make this kitchen layout more appealing, you can gather everyone and not let the main cook alone. Adding a table or modest seating area is simple. This allows non-recipe-makers to chat and unwind. There are also proposals for permanent adjustments.
She says: ""I’d play around by removing a wall or adding a partial barrier which can improve connection to other areas and use larger windows and light colors to brighten the space."
"Regardless of any layout—declutter daily, use smart storage solutions, and get good lighting," she added.
Whether you enjoy entertaining, lounging by the pool, or chasing the kids around the yard, a patio should not only look fantastic but also fulfill your family's needs. Even though the best patio design may change depending on the region, designers agree that there are several common patio design aspects they usually avoid (some of which will possibly surprise you).
Designers advise avoiding these six patio elements for a setting that is both practical and fashionable.
The majority of designers surveyed stated that heavy furniture sets were their biggest pet peeve when asked which patio aspects they disliked the most.
We're referring to the identical sets of coffee tables, accent chairs, and sectionals sold in every department shop. In store displays, they might look more attractive and luxurious but when you actually place them in your home, they are bigger than what you’ve expected.
Not only do large outdoor patio furniture sets physically overpower a room, but they can also be inconvenient and provide little adaptability. Rather, smaller sets and modular furniture are more practical and aesthetically pleasant, according to designers.
According to Jodi Peterman, CEO and owner of Erin Elizabeth Designs, using smaller seating options in conjunction with built-in benches or well-placed accent chairs preserves the space's purposeful design while maintaining usefulness.
When the weather warms up, it could be tempting to throw out any old rug on your patio, especially since a high-quality, weather-resistant rug can be exorbitant. Designers advise against placing rugs on your patio that aren't made to last the weather, though.
"It is crucial to get a long-lasting, all-weather rug that adds texture or color and ties everything together because these can look messy and wear out quickly," explains Elizabeth Vergara, CEO and founder of Vergara Homes.
Think about the money you'll save by purchasing high-quality rugs upfront rather than constantly replacing inferior ones.
Designers agree that good lighting doesn't just bring a room together, it also helps improve its functionality. However, many people still overlook having outdoor lighting on their patio.
If you want to maximize the look of your patio, adding string lights is an excellent start. Designer Chris Turner suggests not stopping there. He said that while string lights can significantly enhance a room, depending only on them can leave the room feeling unfinished.
In addition to string lights, think about adding pendant lights for your gazebo or covered patio, wall sconces on the side of the house, recessed lighting, or even a standing outdoor light fixture. It never hurts to have walkway lights surrounding the patio or along the pathways that lead to it.
Although we value stamped concrete patios since they are inexpensive and practical, we can't hold it against designers who have other ideas. Designers naturally favor natural materials, which they aim to mimic, but it is not a perfect replacement.
According to Turner, "stamped concrete can crack over time and frequently looks artificial."
To create a patio space that a designer will approve, choose high-quality materials like large-format pavers or natural stone. These choices are more timeless and long-lasting in addition to being more aesthetically pleasing.
Additionally, Turner disapproves of patios that combine too many various elements, including plastic, wood, and metal. This may result in a visually disorganized and unwelcoming area.
"It will look like a much more cohesive and inviting space if you can stick to one or two materials that complement the home's architecture," he says.
An inexpensive all-weather wicker patio furniture is not a good option, according to Peterman's opinion. Seemingly ubiquitous, this style of furniture is frequently less expensive than its metal and wooden counterparts. But in addition to seeming a little old, it is also short-lived.
According to her, "It was popular once, but low-quality versions fail quickly and show signs of aging after their first season."
"I choose powder-coated aluminum or natural teak, and sometimes concrete-wood combinations, when building an outdoor space because they improve with age instead of deteriorating," she says.
If you've always wanted a living room that seems luxurious, know that you can definitely accomplish this style on your own without breaking the bank. The secret is a few well-considered, expertly recommended improvements that will quickly transform your area into a "luxe" haven.
For a more sophisticated look, you should use these six easy yet effective suggestions from three interior designers.
Note: Don't be shocked if your friends and relatives begin to compliment you nearly right away.
You may simply add architectural flair to your home after you move in, even if it doesn't have much. Installing molding will also make your living room look much larger.
According to Rebecca Ward, the founder of Rebecca Ward Design, "Nothing says 'expensive' like adding molding to a feature wall. It’s a custom detail that adds an extra touch of intrigue and character to the space, but doesn’t have to cost a lot!"
If you like DIYing, you can install the molding yourself, which renters can appreciate as well. You can use temporary glue to apply renter-friendly picture frame molding, which you can then remove after your lease, according to several online tutorials.
Never undervalue the impact of adding some striking flora to your house. For a posh touch, Ward loves to place a potted tree in the living room.
"Live or faux, the green is an enriching neutral color for any palette," Ward states.
Consider alternatives to a typical terracotta planter and choose one that more closely matches your style. For the ideal vessel, you may also browse vintage stores. To make the arrangement look a little more authentic, you might also want to buy some moss to put on the top of your planter if you decide to go the false plant route.
According to Elissa Hall, co-creator of Sojourn Interiors and founder of EDH Interiors, adding a range of natural textures to a living room is crucial to creating an opulent appearance.
"Working in neutrals helps create that sumptuous, elegant feel," she claims.
To further add depth and visual intrigue that conjures quiet elegance, she suggests using elements such as stoneware, wood, wool, and other materials in the room.
Studio Burgoon founder Ali Burgoon Nolan concurs, pointing out the importance of layering textiles in particular.
"Mixing high-quality natural fibers like linen, nubby wool, or mohair through drapery, throw pillows, blankets, and upholstery creates a rich, collected look," she explains.
According to Nolan, you should use the same color scheme throughout your living area to avoid making it look overly busy even with so many distinct textures.
The secret to a living room that is well-designed? Hall explains that they pay great attention to scale. Making sure the furniture you choose fits your room properly will give the impression that you hired a professional designer, even if you did all the work yourself!
The designer advises adding lots of seating to a large living area, possibly in the form of a sectional sofa and a few poufs or accent chairs. Compact seating is necessary in small living areas. Hall advises going with luxurious furnishings, such as leather or velvet.
"Say yes to oversized art pieces for a luxurious look," Nolan advises.
"A statement piece, whether an oversized painting, a hanging tapestry or textile, or mixed media, adds instant sophistication and makes the space feel intentional," she explains.
Even better, Nolan advises against purchasing your large-scale artwork from a print shop or big box store and instead recommends choosing the original or vintage approach. According to Nolan, doing so will immediately increase the feeling of luxury.
A window without drapes may appear underdressed, but one with drapes has countless benefits. In addition to providing seclusion and a simple method of blocking out sunlight, window treatments will make your ceilings appear higher and your room appear more luxurious overall.
Julie Mitchiner of JAM Interior Design says that the best way to make a space appear more expensive is to add window curtains. According to her, "Window treatments, and particularly drapery, really add a finishing layer that makes a room feel more complete."
Don't worry if you're thinking about drapes and seeing dollar signs flashing in front of you. According to Mitchiner, custom drapes aren't necessary to create an opulent atmosphere. For a cozy, opulent style, choose velvet panels and begin with common areas such as your dining room and living room.
When describing items that already have well-known names, the real estate industry enjoys inventing new, sometimes perplexing phrases. The phrase "great room" has become widely used yet is not always understood.
Although great rooms are not the same as front or living rooms, that does not imply that their functions are different.
In this post, we'll discuss what a great room is, what it is for, and more. So without further ado, let's get started!
A great room is simply a huge ground-floor space in or close to the heart of the house. Like a living room, it can include couches, comfortable seats, and a television where guests can gather. However, although a great room can function as a living room, a living room cannot always function as a great room because the area is larger than a standard living room.
As mentioned, a great room has a lot of available space which may contain various pieces of furniture and are organized into nooks and sections for multiple functions.
For instance, you might have a couch and comfy seats in a corner for family gatherings or around a fireplace for reading and resting. You could also have a bar for fun, coffee tables for dining, and specific places for kids to run and play in your great room when you have a great room.
This is because great rooms have open floor plans, which means no walls separate the various seating sections. As a result, the entire space appears spacious and inviting for multiple uses.
When it comes to great rooms, the most important thing to keep in mind is their various functions. A great room is well-suited for eating, relaxing, entertaining, living, and playing, whereas a living room can be a good spot to hang out or entertain guests.
Great rooms usually have short tables where people can sit, eat, or drink, but they're not meant to be dining rooms.
Since they are open-plan, it often leads into kitchens and eating rooms.
These are ideas you can consider if you're uncertain if a great room will take up too much space or how to make the most of that space.
You should make each great room feel different, even though they should be connected to the other rooms in your home. This can be done very well by choosing the specific transitions.
Changing the kitchen or dining room's lighting or flooring can also help maintain its ambiance. One quick way to tell that the space has changed is with roof beams and decorative arches.
There are many ways to divide a big room into different areas, each with its color scheme, wall trim, and furniture. The great room can feel cozier and easier to handle if warm colors are used around comfortable chairs and cool colors are used around larger sitting areas.
There's nothing worse than sitting against a wall and feeling like you're ten feet away from the nearest person. One of the best things about a great room is that it can have floating furniture. Opening sofas, tables, and chairs can make the space more inviting. This is especially true for great rooms with a lot of square footage.
If you want more natural light in your home, great rooms are a great way to do it while also using less electricity to light the room. That's because great rooms usually have big windows on the outside walls that let in a lot of light. In addition, there are no inner walls so the light can bounce freely.
Want to learn more about great rooms? Visit our website for free resources.
Doorbell cameras are popular but does everyone, specifically real estate brokers, like them?
In this post, we'll find out what our real estate experts really think about these high-tech devices and whether they love or hate seeing these security gadgets on their listings.
When they see your camera, some folks might wonder why you feel the need for one. “Is it a deterrent for crime or a neighbor taking your morning newspaper?” says Coldwell Banker Warburg broker Steven Hoffman. "This could lead to buyers having unpleasant questions at the beginning of the home tour," she added.
Your camera may make your space feel more like a reality TV show than a home, according to Mihal Gartenberg, a Coldwell Banker Warburg broker. He explains that buyers may feel that they need to "be cautious about how they behave and, even more importantly, the things they say to each other about the home," which may make it more difficult to imagine themselves living there.
Broker Suzanne Weinstein believes that some homeowners face the risk of entering into an arrangement where the neighbors are already a little turned off by your presence. After all, nobody wants to start on the wrong foot. "Video-audio recording devices violate most proprietary leases that prohibit causing a nuisance or interfering with the quiet enjoyment (and right to privacy) of neighbors," she argues, pointing out that doorbell cameras such as Amazon Ring record private conversations.
According to Massachusetts real estate agent Jennifer Baptista, real estate brokers enjoy asking their clients about their initial impressions, but they are unable to do so when the homeowner is watching and listening. "It's challenging because I prefer to understand my clients' viewpoints in real-time," she adds, adding that she frequently loves to inquire about their "first impressions" as they approach the front door.
They can help homeowners feel a little more at ease about opening their homes to strangers, which is the major reason Heather Malone, who works with Coach Realtors on Long Island, doesn't mind seeing them at listings. "At times, a home may be showing when it is vacant, and it is always good to keep an eye on your asset when you’re not there," she explains.
Additionally, an agent and seller may decide to maintain a lockbox on the property. When this occurs and neither the seller nor the listing agent is present to show the house, it is beneficial to find out which agents were in and out of the property during that period and whether there were any problems when the seller returned home.
According to Mike Robinson of Century 21 AllPoints Realty in Connecticut, doorbell cameras make a nice parting gift, even though some real estate agents may have unfavorable opinions about them. He explains, "I give them as closing gifts because I deal with a lot of out-of-state buyers." “I am big on personal safety and security and figure if someone is new to a neighborhood, the best way to give them some peace of mind is the ability to watch their front door 24/7, no matter where they might be.”
Avoiding porch pirates is a top concern for many individuals since, as we can all agree, we spend a lot more time clicking "add to cart" these days than we do browsing the store's aisles. "In addition to addressing safety issues within the house, doorbell cameras also reduce package theft in the neighborhood as a whole," explains Jaime Jones and Julie Mariani Cassel of J+J Team Homes. 49 million Americans were robbed by porch pirates in the previous year. Last year, an estimated $2.4 billion worth of merchandise was stolen from porches across the United States.
According to Compass Broker Kimberly Jay, doorbell cameras have become very commonplace due to their affordability and popularity. Doorbell cameras are standard equipment in single-family homes, townhouses, and non-doorman buildings. "Anyone can buy one from a big box store for less than $100," she adds, adding that they can give the impression that the sellers are tech-savvy or intelligent.
How about you? What are your thoughts about the doorbell camera? Would you have that security device in your home or not?
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