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How to Update Your Home Amidst COVID Delays

Over the last year and a half, home updates have risen in popularity due to more people spending time inside. This desire has created a huge demand for home furnishings. If you’re one of the people trying to update your home, chances are you’ve run into delays for a lot of furniture and home goods. Production shutdowns in other countries, ports that have no room to unload cargo, and worker shortages for ports and shipping companies have created these unprecedented delays. Often, the most considerable delays are with pieces that use wood or motorized parts.

But this doesn’t mean that you can’t update your home amidst these COVID delays. Instead, look for alternative options that can help you makeover your home in no time.

Here are seven tips for updating your home amidst COVID delays:

1. Buy Local

A Chagrin Falls, Ohio interior decorator says, “Seek out local craftsmen instead of traditional furniture stores. Local artisans can be a great source for side, coffee, dining, and kitchen tables. Some of these designers even have upholstered pieces such as chairs and loveseats.” When you shop locally, you’re supporting your community, and you may have less of a wait time since you might be able to buy pieces already in stock.

2. Go Vintage

Another option is to go vintage. Depending on your style, this could be mid-century, classic, retro, or traditional. Timeless pieces and styles retain their value, especially when they are high-quality pieces. You can search eBay, Etsy, 1stdibs, and other auction sites for vintage pieces. Just be sure to get lots of pictures from all angles before buying, so you know what you are getting.

3. Don’t Customize

Right now is not the time to splurge on custom-designed pieces. In some cases, it can take up to 40 weeks for a customized piece of furniture to arrive at your doorstep. So, if you really need new furniture and can’t wait, don’t customize your selections. Stick with fabrics and models that the retailer has in stock.

4. Refurbish

Another way you can refresh your home amid COVID is to save the new furniture purchases for a later date and update what you have. You can refurbish and reupholster old furniture, which can completely transform a piece and in less time. Who knows? Maybe with a fresh new look, you won’t even want that new furniture down the line.

5. Try Floor Samples

If you still must have new furniture, another option is to check with the retailer about purchasing floor samples. Since these pieces are already on-site, there’s virtually no wait time. And because these are floor samples, you may even be able to negotiate a discount, saving you some money.

6. Shop at a Thrift Store

Another option to avoid long wait times is to visit a thrift store. If you haven’t considered this in the past, it’s worth giving it a try now. With so many people updating their houses, there can be some good home furnishing finds at these places. Make sure to stop in your local thrift stores frequently since items don’t stick around long at these places.

7. Don’t Delay

And lastly, if you’re looking at new home furnishings and see something you like, don’t delay. Now is not the time to wait and see if the price will come down. It might be gone before you decide, and the website or store may not know when, if ever, they will get it back in stock again. So, if you see something you really want, be sure to buy it right away.

Refresh Your Home With No Delay

Long delays don’t mean you can’t update your home right now. Consider it an opportunity to explore some new places. That could be a local artisan, auction sites, or even shopping at a thrift store. If you must purchase new pieces, don’t customize. Instead, ask about floor samples, or buy what’s in stock. And lastly, don’t delay, as it could be gone for good if you wait.

How to Elevate Your Dorm Room Decor

For many people, the college dorm room presents the first opportunity to take the reins in decorating their own space for the first time. If you are headed to college and living in a dorm, decorating your space can feel overwhelming, especially if you have a roommate with whom to coordinate. Think of this exciting time as an opportunity to express yourself fully and create the space you have always wanted.

Read on to discover five ways you can elevate your dorm room decor.

Smarter Storage

Dorms are notoriously small, so storage is essential. First, if you can, don’t bring your out-of-season clothes with you, as they only take up much-needed space in your closet. An interior decorator in Northern Virginia recommends elevating your bed frame to create additional space for storage underneath. Bonus; what’s under there will also be out of sight. Hooks and temporary hangers are other terrific options, as they allow you to make use of empty wall space. Don’t forget your desk, either; look for desk organizers that keep your supplies in one place and allow you to focus on studying.

Lively Lighting

Lighting is crucial in any room, but dorm rooms often suffer from harsh, fluorescent lights. Fix this by bringing in your own lighting. Stringing up some twinkle lights might be a college stereotype, but that’s because it’s a fun and easy way to add light and decor to your dorm. Add a few floor lamps if your room is dim to prevent your space from looking drab and dreary. Improving your lighting will enhance the look of your entire space.

Cozier Conditions

Many dorms are functionally a slab of concrete and can feel physically and aesthetically cold. Adding some warmth back in will elevate your space and make it more cozy and comfortable. Putting a rug down can keep your feet from freezing and also add texture to your room. Utilize ample throw blankets and pillows for an extra cozy look that is sure to be difficult to part from for classes.

Beautiful Bedding

Your bed often acts as the focal point of your room, so give it the attention and thoughtfulness it deserves. When choosing your bedding, think about how you want to anchor your space. If you have a lot of colorful art or decor, try to keep your bedding neutral, so the art pops in contrast. If you have a more minimal style, a bright solid colored bedding will add visual interest and vibrancy without being too busy.

Delicate Decor

Arguably the most fun part of your dorm is decorating it how you please. Now is the time to really make your space your own. Consider finding art or prints that you like and create a gallery wall. Some online art shops even have curated collections of visually cohesive images, so it takes the guesswork out of creating a gallery wall. If you’re missing your family and friends from home, incorporate their photos in a photo gallery and hang them up above your bed or desk.

College is an exciting time filled with memories and new experiences. We hope the tips above help you create a dorm room that reflects your personality and makes you feel at home during this exciting time.

How to Keep Your Entryway Organized

At the end of a long day, nothing is more discouraging than opening your doorway to a mess. Your entryway often becomes the space where all your day-to-day belongings are tossed, rather than the welcoming space it’s meant to be. If you’re looking to upgrade and organize your entryway to create a more welcoming and pleasant entry experience, look no further for advice on how to get started.

Read on to discover tips on how to keep your entryway organized.

Eliminate clutter

If your entry space is a mess, it is best to start by removing any excess clutter. This is a great time to go through your entryway closet if you have one, as it can often become a hub for discarded items. If you are in warmer months, there is no need to keep your heavy winter coats at the ready. Stow away any out-of-season items to clear up space. If you are overwhelmed by shoes, put away the ones you don’t wear daily. Your entryway will feel much less chaotic with less clutter.

Hang hooks

Hanging hooks is a great way to keep things handy and organized, especially if you are short on space and often forget to grab items on your way out of the house. Consider installing a few small hooks for keys and umbrellas, so they are always ready to go when you are. You can use larger hooks to hang coats and scarves in colder months. If you live in a climate with frequent rain, consider adding a rug below your hook station to catch any running water off your coats and bags.

Store shoes

While it is good practice to take off shoes before entering the home, they can sometimes pile up without realizing it. If you have children or are simply a shoe fanatic, shoe storage is a must for an organized entryway. Cubbies and baskets are a great option, as they keep shoes out of sight. If you prefer a more aesthetically pleasing look, add a shoe rack so you can visually see the shoes at your door. A rack also provides a spot for shoes to dry off should they get wet.

Keep accessories handy

If you don’t prefer the look of hanging hooks, there are still ways to store your accessories. A Claremont, CA interior decorator recommends adding a piece of storage furniture to your entryway, such as a refurbished set of drawers. Not only can this look classy, but you can also store your scarves, keys, and other knick-knacks. Hang a mirror above the furniture and add a tray on top for catch-all items to create a more sophisticated entryway experience.

Prepare for seasons

We’ve all experienced a family member tracking in mud, dirt, and rainwater through the house. To avoid this, make sure your entryway is prepared for whatever weather the seasons may bring. In wetter months, be sure to have a rug out that can trap rain and mud before it gets into your house. Consider adding a heavy-duty tray to the front door area for dirty boots to dry away from clean floors.

If your entryway feels cluttered and chaotic, we hope the above tips will help you organize and restore order to your home’s entrance.

How to Shop for Outdoor Furniture

With summer in full swing, you’re probably ready to soak up the sun outdoors with friends. If your outdoor area lacks a proper setup, it might be time to purchase new furniture. Whether you plan on hosting outdoor dinner parties under the stars or just want a quiet spot to read in the sun, the proper setup can make all the difference.

Read on to discover tips on how to shop for outdoor furniture.

Plan accordingly

Before you look for any furniture, you need to figure out what you want to do with your outdoor space. If you plan to host dinner parties or want to eat outside, a dining table and chairs are necessary. But if you intend to stick to happy hours and casual lounging, you may just need a coffee table and a comfortable seating arrangement. You should also measure your space before you shop to have a rough idea of what dimensions your furniture should be. This way, you will avoid purchasing a dining set that’s too small or an oversized couch.

Know your weather

Most outdoor furniture is made to withstand certain weather conditions. Still, it’s essential that you understand the kind of weather you can generally expect in your area and what works best for your location. If your outdoor space gets a lot of sun, understand that your furniture may have fading issues. If you experience an abundance of rain, you may want to avoid wood furniture as the water can warp it.

Choose comfort

While functionality is important for your outdoor set, be sure to consider your comfort too. Try out your chairs and sofas before purchasing to ensure they won’t leave you and your guests with aches and discomfort. If the set comes with cushions, be sure they are weather resistant and can withstand being left outside occasionally. When you find a beautiful piece that lacks comfort, check to see if inserting cushions or pillows is possible. The more relaxed you and your guests are, the more you will enjoy your time outside.

Select with storage in mind

Most outdoor furniture may be weather resistant, but that doesn’t mean it should be left outside year-round. If you live in a climate with changing seasons, you will want to store your furniture during the colder months. With that in mind, be sure you choose furniture that you know can fit into proper storage. If you’re short on space, there are collapsible and easily disassembled sets that make it easier to put away when not in use.

Add decor

Once you’ve picked your outdoor furniture, you can get started decorating your space. If your outdoor furniture comes with cushions, try to choose patterns that complement your house color. A Mercer County interior decorator recommends coordinating your seat cushions to an outdoor area rug to tie your space together. For dinner parties, consider adding an outdoor bar cart for guests’ easy access. For those with a green thumb, consider hanging annual flowers that match your furniture set.

By following the tips above, you will be able to select the best outdoor furniture for your needs and on your way to an amazing summer!

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.