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Design Tips For Your Backyard Office

Many of us have gone from thinking we will only be working from home for a few weeks to being home indefinitely. If you have found yourself in a less than ideal work from home situation, you’re not alone. While some people have created office spaces in closets, others have gotten even more creative and set up a workspace outside. If that sounds like something you could get behind, read on to discover five design tips for your backyard office.

Greenhouse getaway

If you’re lucky enough to have a greenhouse on your property, consider utilizing it as an office space. Greenhouses not only protect you from the elements but provide a consistent and comfortable environment because they trap heat. They also have the additional benefit of being aesthetically pleasing and allow you to grow some live decor.

Adapt your screens

A screened-in porch is a perfect space to set up an outdoor workspace. Pesky bugs will be barred from entering, and rain will have no chance of ruining your laptop or papers. So it provides the same benefits as working indoors! If you live in a climate that experiences the seasons, you still have options for colder weather. You can cover your screens in vinyl for an easy fix or get a professionally made porch enclosing kit. For extra protection from the cold and wind, install weather-stripping along the edges of your screens.

Salvage your shed

Many a shed has been left to collect dust while housing a shovel or two. If your shed is underused and spacious enough, consider transforming it into your home office. Clear out any garden supplies, clean up the interior, and set up a desk. An interior decorator in Knoxville recommends painting the inside of the shed an office-appropriate color, such as a warm earth tone. A natural color palette will create the right atmosphere for your office space and really get you into the work from home mindset.

Productive patios

If you don’t have a screened-in porch or shed, don’t fret. A patio can serve as an excellent outdoor office space. Canopy tents can be found online or in-store and will provide cover for when it rains. Some even have the added benefit of mesh screening to prevent bugs from ruining your workday. They are easily assembled and can be taken down and put into storage if and when the weather gets too cold to work outside.

Utilize an umbrella

The easiest tip to create a backyard office is simply to get a table and umbrella and bring your work stuff outside. The umbrella will ensure you don’t suffer from the sun’s glare all day and prevents you from getting burned. Outdoor patio sets are sold at various retailers, such as Target, Amazon, and hardware stores, making it easy to select one that works for your needs. Besides the convenient use as an office space, it will provide an excellent gathering space for guests too.

In these uncertain times, we all have had to make adjustments and get creative. We hope that you can create a beautiful backyard office space to get your work done from home in style by following these tips.

How to Decorate Guest Room

Guest rooms are often overlooked and relegated to acting as a dumping ground for excess stuff and unfinished projects. If you often feel a bit embarrassed by your guest room when friends and family come to visit, it may be time to undertake a makeover. Read on to discover tips and inspiration for decorating your guest room.

Clear out your clutter

Many of us are guilty of using our guest room as a convenient storage unit. An excellent first step when redoing your guest room is to get rid of accumulated clutter. If you still have items remaining after clearing out excess belongings, you can utilize many clever storage hacks. For example, consider putting your bed on risers to maximize space underneath for storage. Or, you could purchase a bed frame that includes storage drawers. Finally, be sure to remove any temporary clutter from the room before your guests’ arrival, such as laundry baskets.

Consider the quality of your linens

Just because it’s your spare bedroom doesn’t mean you have to give guests spare towels and sheets. When redecorating your guest room, it is a good idea to invest in separate, high-quality linens, bedspreads, and towels. Keep in theme with the colors and patterns of the room to create a cohesive look. Not only will your guests feel comfortable and taken care of, but you can rest easier knowing that your guests are happy.

Lighten things up

Lighting is critical in any room and often overlooked in underused spaces such as a guest room. If your overhead lighting isn’t cutting it, consider adding lamps at different places throughout the room to create a well-lit atmosphere. A bedside lamp is especially beneficial for late-night readers. If your room lacks natural lighting, an interior decorator in Richmond, VA, recommends the addition of a mirror. Not only will your guests appreciate the inclusion of a mirror, but it will reflect precious light and make your space feel larger and airier.

Furnish with purpose

Guest rooms are traditionally the smallest room in your home, which can make furnishing them extra challenging. If your place can fit a dresser, consider moving it beside the bed to act as a bedside table. Are dressers and nightstands too bulky? Installing a small shelf beside the bed is a great way to include a tabletop surface without taking up extra space. If you use your guest room as an office, a desk is a great addition. Not only will it provide space for you to do work, but it offers guests a spot to place their belongings and get ready for the day.

Add color and personality

A guest room doesn’t have to be white walls coupled with a white bedspread. If you tend towards neutrals in your home, a guest room could be a fun place to play with color. Paint all the walls (or an accent wall) in a bright color. Add patterned wallpaper. Decorate the walls with the artwork you have been meaning to hang. Include plants or fake flowers to add in color where necessary. Whatever your personality is, try to inject it into the room.

Guest rooms are often an overlooked place for artful decor. By following the tips above, you can create a space both you and your guests love.

How to Design A Kid-Friendly Kitchen

With online learning in full swing and social playdates at a minimum, kids are spending a great deal of time at home. If you have come to realize your house, especially your kitchen, is not as safe or accessible as you would like, you’re not alone. The kitchen is a hot spot for congregating, as well as injury from sharp objects and hot surfaces. Read on to discover design tips for a kid-friendly kitchen so you can minimize worry and maximize fun.

Invest in spill-proof materials

There are few things as horrifying as watching a child spill something on a hard to clean surface. If spills are a common occurrence in your house, you will want to invest in countertops and flooring that are easy to clean. An interior designer in Montgomery, TX, recommends looking for non-porous materials, such as quartz or laminate, for your countertops. If you have a lot of wood surfaces, refinish them with a durable coating that prevents stains and scratches.

Foster cooking curiosity

Kids are naturally curious, especially when it comes to the kitchen. A great way to keep an eye on them while you cook is by including them in the process. A step up stool allows your child to watch what you are doing and makes it easier for them to help and learn. Plus, you avoid a potential accident caused by them trying to jump up and watch you in action. Step stools come in a variety of styles that can fit any kitchen.

Find storage for sharp objects

A common worry for parents is that young children will get into their knives and other sharp objects. To avoid this, consider adding a magnetic strip along the backsplash of your kitchen. This way, you can place your knives away from tiny, grabbing hands. Not only that, but you can also hang spice jars out of reach of curious youngsters who may want to dump out their contents. If you don’t have the space for such a solution, child-proof latches are a good option for your cabinets and drawers.

Use smarter storage

If your child is older and more independent, you may be familiar with the constant flow of questions asking where something is. To avoid messes brought on by a search for cookies and other snacks:

Switch up how you store pantry items.
Keep frequently sought after snacks on lower shelves.
Be consistent with where certain things go to avoid confusion.
Consider using clear storage containers to cut down on rummaging.

Change your view

Kids can get into some crazy shenanigans while your back is turned. If your cooking space faces away from the action, an island is a practical addition to your kitchen. Not only will you be able to see your kids while you cook, but you have the added benefit of extra storage. You don’t need to remodel your kitchen to include a built-in island; there are many portable options available that you can repurpose once your children get older and no longer require constant supervision.

Your kitchen doesn’t have to be a source of anxiety while your kids spend time at home. We hope that the tips above improve your kitchen design and peace of mind.

How to Turn a Closet into a Workspace

With many people continuing to work from home through the autumn and kids starting back up with online learning, you may find yourself running out of space to get your work done. If everyone working from the kitchen table is not conducive to productivity, consider repurposing a closet into a workspace. Read on to discover tips on how to convert a closet into a workspace.

Measure the space

The first step in almost any home project is to measure the space you are working with. A particularly important measurement in this case is depth; you want to know how big your desk space can be. While it is entirely possible to fit a full desk inside a walk-in closet, you may want to consider making a custom desk if you have less room. One way to do this is to install a shelf and use that as your desktop. This way, you save space and can be confident the desk will fit perfectly in your closet space.

Allow for electricity

Most of us don’t have the luxury of having outlets in our closet. If you are transforming your closet space into a workspace, you will probably need to add wiring and an outlet to hook up a computer or laptop charger. It is best to contact an electrician to do this for you, as rewiring can be tricky and is apt to go wrong if you are unsure of what you are doing. Be sure the outlet’s location allows you to plug in all your necessary equipment, and the wires won’t interfere with your space. If this seems extreme and you have an outlet nearby, an extension cord and power strip should get the job done. However, the addition of electricity enables you to add a lamp or other lighting, which is undoubtedly necessary for a closet workspace.

Install shelving

Given that you probably have a limited amount of space, shelving is crucial for storage in your workspace. Shelving can be used to store any files, binders, or work supplies you need to have on hand. It also eliminates the need for drawers, which can take up precious space. Whatever you plan on storing, be sure to correctly measure from the ceiling to know that it will fit on the shelf.

Do without doors

If your closet space is small or your doors are on sliding frames, you may want to consider removing them. A doorless closet allows for more space, as your actual workspace can spill out a little beyond the door frame. If you would still like to be able to close off your area and keep your work-life somewhat separate from your home life, curtains are a great alternative and only require the addition of a curtain rod.

Make it your own

Your closet office workspace does not have to feel like a storage room. To keep the workspace from appearing like a broom closet under the stairs, a Louisville, KY, interior decorator recommends decorating your space like you would any other room. Paint or add wallpaper to the backdrop of your desk. If possible, hang small artwork or display decor on shelves, such as plants. Adding decor not only makes your space more aesthetically pleasing, but it can motivate you to get your work done, too!

Many of us are looking to create a dedicated work from home space given that some of us don’t know when we’ll be able to return to the office. Whether it’s for you or a child learning from home, we hope the above tips help you to transform an unlikely space into a workspace for productivity.

Smart Storage Ideas for Any Sized Home

With all of this extra time spent at home, has your house started to feel cluttered and messy? While decluttering is always an option, sometimes you just want to store your stuff in a more orderly fashion. No matter what size space you live in, the following smart storage ideas can help you organize your home and free up some mental and physical space.

Revamp your resting place

Your bed can be used for more than just sleeping. There are headboards on the market with built-in shelving units and bed frames with drawers built into the base. If purchasing a new bed frame isn’t in the cards, consider placing your bed on bed risers. Risers provide a few inches of extra space under your bed for additional storage. Use flat plastic or cloth bins to store sheets, towels, and other goods out of sight.

Clean up your cabinets

Kitchen cabinets are notorious for housing a mess of pots, pans, and lids. If you avoid opening your cabinets for fear of being bombarded with a mess of Tupperware, consider getting cabinet shelving units. They typically come in sets with shelves for larger items, such as pots and pans, and slots for lids. If your cabinets are too small to store your kitchenware, hanging your pots and pans might be a good alternative. Hang them above your oven or sink and they’ll double as industrial-inspired decor.

Find functional furniture

Investing in multifunctional furniture is a great way to store excess household items, says a Springfield interior decorator. If your living room feels cluttered, consider using ottomans or stools with storage space hidden beneath the cushion. You can store extra blankets or toys in this space. Another great option is a coffee table with a shelving unit at the bottom where you can put magazines, coasters, board games, and other knick-knacks.

Stack it up

If you have limited floor space for storage, consider stacking shelves. Many commercial shelving units come with wall mounts and can easily be placed on top of one another. Books and other decor items can be put on display while not taking up an excessive amount of space. If you are planning on storing clothes, invest in stackable cubes. Not only does stacking shelves free up extra space, but doing so can turn them into a focal point for your room and be a beautiful piece of decor.

Go high

Are your walls full of artwork and photos, leaving no room for shelving units or bookcases? Work around these obstacles and mount shelves close to your ceiling around the perimeter of your room. Not only does this look beautiful, but it also serves as an excellent storage space for items you may not use often but still want to put on display.

Life is chaotic enough right now. That’s why we should take extra care in keeping our homes in order. Free up space and clear clutter by following these clever home storage solutions.

Must-Have Decor for a New Home

Spring and summer are peak moving seasons, as millions of people find themselves taking advantage of the warmer months to move into their new apartment or home. If you are one of those people, decorating your new space may seem like an intimidating task, especially when it’s on top of the arduous moving process. If you don’t know where to start with decorating, read on to discover seven must-have decor items for a new home.

Wall art

Artwork truly speaks to your tastes and preferences and makes for excellent decor. You may choose to create a gallery wall with your framed art or decide to make one painting or photo the centerpiece of a room. Don’t shy away from statement pieces or different textures, such as a woven piece or metalwork. These types of art add dimension and visual interest to your space.

Mirrors

Mirrors are an excellent decor choice if you don’t have any wall art or cannot find any that fit your style or budget. They brighten up dreary spaces by reflecting light and can make small spaces appear larger than they are. You don’t even have to hang a mirror for it to make a statement; mirrors propped up against a wall look just as stylish. Depending on the frame, a mirror can fit into an assortment of different styles, such as modern, vintage, or eclectic.

Window treatments

Most people would agree that a room seems cold and incomplete without window treatments. Drapes and curtains are a vital addition to any room and can really tie a space together. You can be bold with your window treatments and choose bright colors or patterns, or keep it neutral and let the room speak for itself. Be sure to consider lighting when choosing window treatments, as thicker drapes will not let in as much light as thinner curtains.

Rugs

Rugs can cover any floor you’re not crazy about and add style to boot. If you choose a colorful rug, the tones can provide inspiration for the rest of the room’s color palette. When all of your colors complement each other, your space will feel cohesive and put together. Rugs can also make your home feel cozier, especially if your flooring is stone or tile.

Throw pillows and blankets

Throw pillow and blankets instantly make a room feel more welcoming and intimate. Blankets add texture to your space, while pillows can add color and visual interest. A Prospect, KY, interior decorator recommends purchasing different covers for your pillows so your decor never remains stagnant and can be switched out depending on the season and your preferences.

Light fixtures

Good lighting is critical for any living space. You don’t have to match every light source in every room completely; choosing complementary styles and finishes works beautifully. When choosing light fixtures, try to vary between floor lamps, table lamps, and overhead lighting. Lighting at various levels and locations throughout the room will help create an evenly lit space that looks cohesive and well designed.

Trays and baskets

Trays and baskets are a must-have for creating an organized and beautiful space. Trays can be placed on any table to hold items. Think at the front door for keys or on top of a coffee table for magazines and books. Baskets provide space for bulkier items, such as blankets and board games. With less clutter, your home will feel more spacious and visually pleasing.

Decorating can seem overwhelming, especially when moving into a new space. Use these must-have items as a guide, and your home will be well on its way to looking its best.

How to Style Your Coffee Table

Coffee tables are one of the unsung heroes in any living area. While immaculately decorated coffee tables are frequently pictured on our social media feeds, the reality is that they are often strewn with cups and forgotten magazines. Read on for tips on how to elevate your coffee table from simple to sophisticated.

Keep function in mind

When decorating your coffee table, it is essential to keep in mind how you use it. After all, a perfectly stylized coffee table is useless if you can’t utilize it in the way you want. Do you tend to set your drink on the coffee table? Do you sit at the table to do work? Do you actually flip through and read the books you have displayed? Do you enjoy using it as a surface to play games with friends and family? Keep all this in mind when styling your coffee table so that it remains usable.

Stacking knick-knacks

If you are caught between displaying books or knick-knacks on your coffee table, you need not choose between the two. Placing small decor items on top of two to four stacked books allows for a stylish way to show off both. Stacking also provides visual interest, especially if your coffee table setup was mostly flat. You can stack candles, vases, and other small items to complete the look.

Keep it organized

Coffee tables often feel like the focal point of clutter in living areas, but it doesn’t have to be that way. First, take stock of what is currently on your coffee table and get rid of any books you don’t want or magazines that are well past their relevant date. Once you’re left with the items you want to keep on display, a Pasadena, MD, interior decorator recommends using decorative trays to keep things organized. Depending on the tray’s size, you can place remotes, coasters, or books inside, minimizing the appearance of clutter.

Experiment with shape and size

While there is nothing wrong with a simple coffee table stacked with a book or two, it provides little visual interest. Consider decorating your coffee table with items of varying height, shape, texture, and size. This can look like a tall plant flanked by flat stacks of books or a ceramic bowl paired with potted plants. Varying the shape and size of the items on your coffee table will help your decor feel more dynamic and visually appealing.

Make it personal

Since people tend to gather around a coffee table, it presents the perfect opportunity for you to add a few conversation starters. Instead of displaying curated decor, consider using one of your own collections or personal items. Some examples include shells from a beach vacation or other trinkets from your travels. This way, your coffee table decor is one of a kind and perfectly unique.

Reclaim your coffee table! Long gone are the days where your coffee table serves as a catch-all for your cups, keys, and mail. If you follow the tips above, you can style a coffee table that reflects your interests and taste, while still leaving space for you to rest your coffee in the morning.

Ideas for Your Kid’s Playroom

If you’re stuck at home and find yourself at your wit’s end trying to entertain your child, you’re not alone. Millions of parents now find themselves juggling the roles of teacher, entertainer, and parent alongside their own work responsibilities. If you want to keep your child distracted for longer, consider revamping their playroom. Read on to discover the best ideas to improve your kid’s playroom.

Make storage a priority

If you are working with a small space, finding places to fit all of your child’s belongings might be a challenge. Vertical cubbies on the wall work well because they don’t take up too much room and allow your child to see the toys without rummaging through a storage bin. You can even add fitted containers or bins to your cubbies to make it look neater. An Ankeny, IA, interior decorator recommends utilizing furniture that doubles as storage space — such as seats or benches — to optimize your space.

Weigh your wall options

Bright colors are a great addition to any child’s playroom, especially when you don’t have to commit to repainting the walls. Decals provide an easy way to add individuality and fun to your child’s playroom. You can choose a single sticker of your kid’s favorite movie character or a pattern that serves as a wallpaper (think: crowns for a princess fan). If you have a child who is notorious for writing on the walls, consider painting one wall with chalkboard paint. This will allow your budding Picasso to draw on the wall while saving you hours of frustration and cleaning.

Reel in reading

A playroom can serve as your child’s space to have fun as well as a place to wind down. Encouraging your child to read in between all the fun gives them time to calm down and gives you a break from any potential noise. You can create a special corner just for reading. Consider adding new shelves to house all of their favorite stories. If that’s not possible, simply add a comfortable cushion in your reading nook and place a couple of books beside it.

Include your child in the design

Most children have artwork that they would love to see on display. An easy way to showcase their art is to use it as decor in the playroom. Frames are relatively cheap, and it is easy to change out the designs as your child grows and creates more. You can forego a frame altogether and opt to hang wire or string and clip up your child’s artwork for a budget-friendly option. Including your child’s artwork is a personal touch that will make your child feel that the room is their special place.

Cultivate craftiness

Most kids enjoy working on art projects filled with glitter, glue, macaroni, and the like. If you have a crafty kid on your hands, consider dedicating a space to their crafts. A low table provides an excellent spot for your child to work on any art project or puzzle. While there are special tables designed for children, a coffee table also works fine since it is low enough to the ground. Keep labeled containers of supplies so your crafty kid knows where things are and can work on their projects without asking for help. It’s a good idea to avoid rugs around your craft area, as glue and sparkles can get stuck and be difficult to remove.

We may be inside, but that doesn’t mean your kid cannot have fun. Follow the tips above, and you can create a playroom for your child that keeps them occupied and allows them to have a good time during their days inside.

How to Choose a Headboard Style

A headboard is often the focal point of a bedroom. Choosing a headboard depends on your style and needs. If you are looking to replace your headboard or perhaps add one in altogether, read on to discover tips on how to choose a headboard style.

Keep size in mind

It is tempting to choose the most visually appealing headboard you see, but some assessments need to happen first. Before you go shopping for a new headboard, whip out the measuring tape and take a close look at your bedroom. How high are the ceilings? How long is the wall against which your bed rests? You don’t want a long headboard on a short wall or a tall headboard with a low ceiling; otherwise, your room will look unbalanced. Keep these measurements in mind to choose the best headboard for your space.

Stay on trend

If comfort and style are important to you, you can’t go wrong with an upholstered headboard. Though they went out of fashion for a bit in favor of more minimalist styles, an interior designer in Plantation, FL, says they are back on-trend in 2020. Upholstered headboards are any headboard with soft padding covered in fabric, so you can really make it your own. You can find headboards upholstered in a variety of materials, such as velvet or leather. Whatever you decide, you can be sure you’ll be stylish and comfortable while you sit in bed.

Consider contrasting

When deciding what type of headboard you want, look around your room. Contrasting your headboard with the rest of your room is a good way to draw attention to it and create visual interest. If your furniture is mostly dark wood, consider choosing a softer, upholstered headboard. If your furniture is mostly cushioned, introduce contrast with a wooden headboard. Besides texture, you can also use contrasting colors. If you have a light-colored room, a dark headboard will act as a stunning contrast, and vice versa.

Refinish what you have

If you don’t feel like investing in a new headboard or you have an old piece that needs some TLC, consider refurbishing it. A headboard can look entirely new and reflect your current taste with a fresh coat of paint or stain. Be sure to clean your headboard properly and sand it if necessary. House painters in Dunwoody, GA, recommend applying multiple, thin coats of primer before going in with paint on wood. Once you’re done painting or staining, you will have a fresh headboard at a fraction of the cost of purchasing a new one.

Get unique

A headboard doesn’t have to be traditional wood or metal. You can make a headboard out of anything, and your individuality and interests will shine through. If you have any reclaimed wood, you could potentially make a headboard out of it. Other ideas include old door panels, collages, latticed wood, or picture frames. Pinterest has plenty of ideas, so don’t feel confined by traditional headboards.

A headboard can elevate the style of your room while providing functionality as back support while lounging. By following the tips above, you can choose the best headboard for your style and needs.

Fresh Color Palettes for Spring

Spring brings more than just the promise of new life; spring is a time to restart, refresh, and prepare for the warmer months ahead. While pastels and florals are the first things that come to mind when we think of spring, there are many different color combos you can introduce to your home. Read on to discover tips on the best color combinations for spring.

Yellows and white

While it may be obvious, yellow and white is a beautiful combination for the springtime. Think a freshly hatched chick still in its egg. You can choose a bright canary yellow or a more mild tone, such as a lemon yellow. Accenting with green amps up the natural vibe. To implement this color combination, a Warrenton, VA interior decorator recommends accenting your white backgrounds with yellow. For example, you could add a bright yellow pillow to your white couch. Or, you can hang yellow dish towels in an all-white kitchen.

Greens and pinks

Green and pink is an extremely versatile color combination. The warmth of pink perfectly complements the cool, earthy vibe of green. For a spring twist, pair shamrock green with hot pink. If that is too bright for your tastes, consider combining mint with bubblegum pink. Whatever tone and shade you decide, you can be sure that your green and pink color combination will look lovely.

Greens and gold

Green is the color of the season, and pairs beautifully with many other colors. Gold pairs exceptionally well with deep, earthy greens. The metallic nature of gold perfectly balances and contrasts with the natural quality of the green. It also brightens up green tones, evoking a look of the sun shining on leaves. There are many ways to introduce this color palette into your home, from potting your plants in gold to framing green-toned artwork in gold frames.

Shades of blue

Blue is the color of the sky on a clear spring day, and maybe the next color of your living space. Since it is so versatile, blue is the perfect color to paint a large room, according to professional Ohio house painters. Pale blues pair beautifully with white countertops in your kitchen and silver or stainless steel appliances. Robin’s egg blue walls look wonderful paired with deeper blue furnishings, such as navy or indigo.

Blues and friends

Not only does blue work well with itself, but it also pairs well with others. Violet goes with a more subdued shade of blue, such as robin’s egg. Lavender and cerulean are another winning blue-purple combo. You can also pair blue with deeper shades of yellow, such as mustard or honey, or with green for a match made in spring heaven. Consider pairing a bright green with a greenish toned blue, such as aqua or turquoise.

Spring is a time for renewal. Whether you plan on completely refreshing your house with a new coat of paint or are looking to add some fresh decor, these tips will surely help you pick the color combination that suits your tastes best.