7 Tips for The First Time Furniture Buyer Wednesday, August 29, 2018 Furnishing your first apartment is thrilling! You have a chance to create a space that is all your own. From the style, to colors, to the accent pieces, it will be you through and through. It’s only natural to take pride in what makes your living spaces comfortable and unique, but don’t go into the process without information. Here are 7 tips to keep you on track to create a space that works for you.

1. Be Sure to Measure

   You cannot measure enough. You want to make sure the pieces you find will fit into your space. You’ll also want to make sure they can fit through any halls, up stairways, and through doors. Also, take care that the furniture will fit comfortably in an area and not appear too bulky for the room.

2. Buy the Set to Save Money

   The sofa, loveseat, and matching chair, when sold as a set, will save you big bucks. Most of the time, it’s easier for furniture stores to sell the set together, so they are willing to offer a discount when sold as a whole. This Reed living room set could compliment any apartment style. Also, this set comes with throw pillows taking the guesswork out of coordinating.

3. Repurpose Old Pieces

   Maybe your parents or friends have a few older pieces they are looking to pass along. Things like dining room chairs, accent chairs and side tables may find a new lease on life in your first apartment.

4. Avoid an Impulse Buy

   It’s perfectly fine to fall in love with the perfect table and take it home that day. But if you are furnishing an entire living room, you may want to sleep on it. Don’t make a rash decision; this is an investment in your style and comfort. Make sure it’s a purchase you can literally live with.

5. Understand Proper Care

   Some of your new purchases require special care. Make sure you chat with the store clerk about how to clean any spots that will pop up over time. Some cleaners could impact the fabric dye while some could eat through the fabric altogether. If you are buying a kitchen table, ask about wear and tear. Can it take a hot pan? Proper maintenance is essential to making your furniture last.

6. Multi-Purpose Furniture

   Many pieces can serve two functions. For example, not only does the Dellara Ottoman serve as a place to put your feet up, it adds extra seating and storage. Futons can turn your living room into a guest room and they look stylish! Also, Entertainment centers not only serve as the perfect place for your TV and game console, most entertainment centers also offer a ton of extra space for all sorts of gadgets.

7. Understand Financing

   Buying a room or apartment full of furniture can be a major expense. Make a budget and stick to it. You can pay upfront, use layaway, finance through the furniture store, or put the purchase on your credit card. Know what you want to do before going down to the showroom.

Furniture shopping for the first time should be fun! Have an idea of the style you are hoping to achieve and the spaces you are trying to create. Keep these 7 tips in mind and happy shopping!

Traditional Furniture for Your Traditional Style Home Thursday, August 23, 2018

Comforting and classic are the hallmarks of a traditional style home. These cozy pieces never seem to go out of style and beg for the space to be calm and orderly. Nothing wild or outlandish, just an elegant space meant to be an escape from the world. Traditional rooms are not ostentatious but often feel somewhat formal. Furniture pieces are often reproductions or “new takes” on furniture from an earlier time.

Let’s be clear, a traditional room is not a place to showcase a piece of modern art or stainless-steel furniture. There is always a way to mix style, but if you are going for a truly traditional look, keep other elements in mind. Things like upholstered furniture with classic lines and quiet details. Edges are soft, smooth, and blend together.

When looking for fabric designs, think florals, plain colors, muted plaids, understated stripes, and small all-over patterns. Multi-color florals are often a great starting point of a traditional color scheme.

Wood furniture will also follow these classic lines. Wood is the place to go a bit more ornate with light carving details, but nothing outlandish. Wood pieces are typically seen with darker stains. Lighter stains can be used as long as the look remains classic.

Most traditional style homes feature a living room with a sofa, loveseat and two chairs. Space can then be complemented with a coffee table, side tables, ottomans, rugs and more. Consider a recliner that doesn’t look intruding; nothing oversized. At least one accent chair will help center the room and help it look like a place for conversation as opposed to watching TV. Wingback chairs are perfect for this décor. A chesterfield sofa is also a classic piece of furniture that would complement a traditional style home.

In the bedroom, traditional furniture will mean a simple bed with understated dressers and drawers. The shaker style is perfect for a traditional bedroom with its lack of ornamentations. A Louis Phillipe bed also works nicely with a traditional theme.

The dining room in a traditional home is generally a separate room, often with some corner cabinets for storage and display. A traditional dining room table will be large and formal. That doesn’t have to mean bulky, instead roomy for accommodating lots of guests. Look for rectangular tables with matching chairs. Bentwood and high chairs with upholstered seats are the most common. If you have the space you may also want to consider a buffet table for the dining room.

Interiors in a traditional home typically feature trim and molding that is painted glossy white. Walls might have a chair rail and ceilings are often white. Look to accessories like lamp pairs, plants, mirrors, framed prints, China, and vases. Symmetry is important in this style and everything should be balanced in some way. Keep it simple, clean, and slightly formal and you’ll have your traditional space decorated in no time.

Avoid These 4 Furniture Shopping Mistakes Tuesday, August 21, 2018

Furniture is an investment in your style and comfort. Big purchases shouldn’t be made on a whim; impulse buying furniture can be a major mistake. There’s a lot to consider, from your style to your price points. However, it doesn’t have to be a scary process. Furniture shopping can, and should be, fun! Here are 4 major mistakes to avoid when going furniture shopping.

1. Not Testing it Out

   Look, you are going to be spending a lot of time on this furniture. Even something as simple as an office chair could ruin your day if you don’t love it. You can, and should, test out the furniture you are planning to buy. Sit on it, lay on it, stretch out and see how it feels. If you have your eye on a tufted back couch but like the comfy feeling of a sofa with a pillow back, be sure to test them both before making a decision.

2. Not Knowing Its Use

   How will you be using the furniture day in and day out? For example, if you are shopping for a formal dining room set, you know that your family may not be sitting down to dinner there every day. If you have a breakfast nook or eat-in island, your formal dining room will probably be used on special occasions. Making that realization upfront can make your decision easier. Maybe you can go with a more high-end table due to the lack of potential wear and tear.

3. Not Measuring

   Catalog photos and even showroom setups can be a bit deceiving. You need to make sure you have an accurate depiction of the space your furniture will occupy and also understand how it will get there. For example, a reclining sofa may not have legs that detach from the bottom to fit through a narrow door frame. Before buying, use painter’s tape to block out where the piece will go in the room and take measurements of all the doors and stairwells it will take on its journey to and inside of your home.

4. Not Sticking to Your Budget

   Go into the process with a full grasp of your budget. Know how you will pay for the furniture before heading to the store. There are lots of financing options to consider from lay-away to credit. Research your options and decide which is best for you before going to make your purchase. You may decide paying cash is your best option and want to save a few more weeks. Or if you decide to finance through the store, you will probably want to check your credit report before applying. Understanding your budget and financial situation beforehand will help you avoid any surprises after you fall in love with your furniture.

If you avoid these 4 things before going to buy furniture, the process will seem a lot less intimidating. There are also other things to consider like style, color, and fabric, but those tend to fall into place after asking yourself about the function and budget of the furniture.

Treat Yourself to A Home Theater with the Perfect Furniture Tuesday, August 21, 2018

Not every home needs a new home theater, but maybe you really want one! Perhaps the kids have outgrown the toy room? Or maybe your home office is large enough to serve a dual purpose? A home theater is a perfect compromise for the entire family. The right home theater furniture makes movie night and watching the big game a one-of-a-kind experience. Let’s explore some of the ways you can turn a room of your home into a theater!

Seating

When you have a room that’s primarily used for watching a large screen, seating is paramount. Every seat in the home theater has to be “the best seat in the house.” You’ll want to account for comfort and view.

Sectional sofas are the perfect pieces of furniture to ensure a good view of the screen and a comfy place to settle in.

• Chaise Sectionals: A chaise sectional usually has three cushions, with the third being elongated into a chaise: perfect for movie watching.
• L-Shaped Sectionals: These sectionals usually have five cushions: two on one side of the L, two on the other side and one connecting the L shape. Basically, it adds a second sofa to your space. Nice for all piling together to watch football!
• U-Shaped Sectionals: U-shaped sectionals typically have a center with two sections extending from either side. They provide the same sitting space as two sofas and a love seat. Perfect for the premiere party for your favorite show.
• Reclining Sectionals: Not only is every seat comfy, they also recline. These sectionals are perfect for home theaters, where everyone needs to settle in nicely for a movie.

Recliners are also a great way to add style to your home theater. They take up less space than a sectional and function better than a traditional sofa for this type of space. Look at the Recliner. It was made for relaxing in front of a big screen. You can stretch out or snuggle up. Sleeker recliners, like the Rosenburg Glider, mean you can fit more furniture into your home theater space.

If you want the look of a more traditional sofa, consider a reclining sofa. The Peoria Reclining sofa actually features a table that can be folded down to hold drinks and popcorn.

Entertainment

Of course, a home theater is nothing without the main feature: the entertainment center. Depending on your needs, you may want to hang your TV on the wall and use something like the TV Stay with Fireplace underneath. This entertainment center can serve as a place to set a large TV on top or just hold the essentials like a gaming console and cable box and it has the bonus of being a fireplace.

You can also opt for a more traditional entertainment center. The Entertainment Center has room for every entertainment device in your house. It can be home to multiple consoles, streaming devices, smart home devices and more.

Lighting is also a consideration for a home theater; this is one room of the house that you’ll want less natural light. Consider blackout curtains for windows and floor lamps that scatter the light. A home theater may not be a must for every home, but it’s certainly nice to treat yourself!

Furniture to Fit Your Timeshare Condo Friday, August 17, 2018

Decorating for yourself is one thing, but taking the style and comfort of strangers into account is another. The key when considering furniture for your timeshare condo is to think “neutral”. You want the space to appeal to a variety of people. You need for them to feel at home in your home.

1. Used isn't best

   Used furniture for your timeshare may be tempting but it really isn’t the way to go. Consider how much wear and tear this furniture will endure. Your place could have visitors year-round, meaning these pieces will be well loved. Go for new, neutral furniture that appeals to a variety of people. Something like the Telluride sofa: it’s a solid color and looks and feels like a typical couch in most homes.

2. Buy the Set
   

   Even if buying the set isn’t your typical choice, you’ll want to consider the entire set for your timeshare. It takes the guess work out of coordinating. Something like the Reed Living Room set is perfect for a shared living space. It’s neutral, comfy and completely coordinated.

3. Small Space?

   If space is limited, avoid bulky furniture. Find slimmer pieces and opt for seating that has a dual purpose. Consider footstools that double as storage or a sofa that pulls out into a bed. Remember, futons aren’t just for college dorms. They’ve come a long way in terms of style. The Easton Futon looks and acts just like a sofa but provides sleeping room for two. And in the bedrooms, opt for daybeds and bunk beds. Even the master bedroom of a timeshare condo could use extra sleeping room.

4. Rugs

   Nothing will tie a place together and make it a bit cozier than a few well-placed rugs. Add a rug to the living and sleeping space. Or, if you have an open concept, use different rugs to help designate the living space, dining, space and sleeping space of the timeshare.

5. Use the Outdoors

   Open things up a bit! If there’s a way to create an indoor/outdoor space, do it! Maybe your deck can serve as the dining area? Make it the dining room by adding all the touches of an indoor dining room. Or use your deck as a hangout by adding outdoor rugs and comfy furniture that can withstand the elements. Great lighting, shelves, greenery and more will help transform a simple balcony into an inviting room of the timeshare!

Treat your timeshare like your second home and a getaway for others. Remember to keep things simple, add storage where you can, and create spaces using the outdoors. People are spending their money on a vacation and they want to feel welcomed and comfortable.

Lazy Day Style Friday, August 17, 2018

Who doesn’t like a weekend snuggled up on the couch, or maybe curled up in bed with a book? Lazy days can be taken to the next level with the right furniture. Relax in style with these perfect pieces and accessories.

ReclinerWhether it’s overstuffed, mid-size, or a glider, recliners mean it’s time to take a load off. The perfect recliner will offer good support, be made of soft (yet durable) fabric and match your style perfectly. Make sure the one you choose can stand up to the wear and tear of your lifestyle. Always consider kids and pets before making an investment in a recliner. Plus, this is an item you are likely to use every day, multiple times, so this may be one piece you will want to splurge on for quality.

Chaise Sectional
This type of sectional also incorporates a lounger. It’s perfect for two or even three people to get warm and cozy for a movie marathon! You can get sectionals with a detachable chaise lounger for various seating options. They also come in multiple sizes for larger families!

Chaise Lounge
This is a stand-alone piece that is different from the chaise sectional sofa. Chaise lounges are great for reading nooks, offices, and bedrooms. They feel inviting and can be dressed up or down depending on the fabric and accents.

Recliner Sofa 
These sofas offer the best of both worlds! Many come with extra storage for remotes, blankets, and even snacks! Put your feet up or stretch out, the choice is yours. Some recliner sofas offer one at each end, while others only offer one recliner. Some sectional sofas also offer recliners.

Throws
Throw pillows and blankets are a great way to add pops of color to your relaxing space. They also have the added bonus of being functional on those lazy days. If you have a large piece of furniture, like a sectional sofa, throw pillows will warm up the area and make it easy to relax.

Quality MattressA high-quality mattress is a must for lazy mornings under the covers. Sleep in without worrying about aches and pains from old springs. You can look for memory foam, pillow top, water, and adjustable. A mattress is an investment in your health as well as relaxation, so it’s best to research which options will suit your needs.

Tufted OttomanSome ottomans are made for more than feet! While putting your feet up after a long work week is what these pieces are made for, a tufted ottoman offers additional space to lounge around. Also, the tufted exterior won’t sag with repeated use.

These pieces will add a bit of comfort to your lazy days! Take a long weekend and enjoy your time cuddled up.

4 Kid and Pet-Friendly Furniture Fabrics Tuesday, August 14, 2018 Spending money on a beautiful piece of furniture only to watch it become stained and drowned in pet hair is no one’s idea of a smart buy. Families with kids and pets need to make special considerations when shopping for furniture. There are fabrics out there that will make your life so much easier!

Quick clean-up and durable options mean you can share your space with babies and fur-babies without the headache. After all, it’s their house too!

Here are 4 kid and pet-friendly furniture fabrics:

1. Leather Furniture and Leather Furniture Substitutes

   Leather is durable and stain-resistant. If your son comes tearing through the house with a can of soda and spills on the sofa or loveseat, all you have to do is wipe it off. It’s worry free when it comes to stains; it does, however, show wear over time. For most people, that’s one of the appeals of natural leather; the wear and scratches create a patina that becomes part of the character of the piece. One word of caution: if your cats still have their claws, be careful they do not use the leather to sharpen them. Even leather can’t stand up to kitty claws.

2. Microfiber

   Synthetic microfiber is becoming quite popular and with good reason. Microfiber is a synthetic fiber with very thin strands that can be made to look like suede or leather, which makes it an attractive and affordable fabric for sofas and couches. It doesn't rip or scratch easily, and cleaning up pet hair is not time-consuming. All you need is a lint brush, or sometimes just your hands can do the trick! Most stains come out of microfiber with soap and water. Stubborn stains can be outed with a mild cleaner.

3. Patterns

   For pets and kids, patterns are your friend. Patterns help hide everyday issues like dirt and pet hair. They also help camouflage small stains until they can be properly cleaned by a steamer. A lively pattern, like the one on this accent chair, can be a parent’s best friend.

4. Texture

   Any item that features texture will help hide wear and tear on the furniture. Look at the Telluride Ottoman for example. It’s easy to see how the pattern and texture of this piece will make it hard for pet hair for dirt to stick out. It’s naturally worn and already provides the character of an ottoman that has been well used and loved. That’s part of its charm. It also has an added bonus of being easy to live within an active household.

When trying to find the most durable fabrics for kids and pets, look for something with a tight weave. Darker colors, along with patterns and textures can also help hide hair and dirt. It’s possible to have a stylish home with kids and pets! Just keep fabric in mind when furniture shopping.

What to Look for When Buying a Mattress Tuesday, August 14, 2018

Alright, you’ve decided your old mattress isn’t cutting it anymore. It sags, it creaks, and it makes you want to sleep on the sofa. It’s clearly time to take the plunge into a new comfy mattress! Before you head to the store, it’s important to know what you need in a new mattress.

Support

You want the mattress to hold you in proper alignment from head to toe so you don’t wake up with a backache. You need the mattress to push up on your body to counteract your body weight. Now, that does not mean getting a super hard or firm mattress. Your body isn’t a straight line; it has curves. A mattress must contour to the curves and arches of your body. The Serta is designed for gentle yet firm support and will hug the curves of your body.

A supportive mattress will dip down around your shoulders and hips, yet keep your spine in proper alignment. If a mattress is too firm, your hips and shoulders will be pushed up, and you will be stiff when you wake up. The same issues can occur if a mattress is too soft. You want a mattress to contour to the shape of your body to hold it in its natural alignment.

Comfort

You don’t want the mattress to cause pressure to your body resulting in tossing and turning. If a mattress is too hard, the pressure to your body could cut off circulation, and pinch nerves, and will cause you to change positions throughout the night. Some American Bedding mattresses feature a medium-firm feel with a quilted foam cover and 2 inches of gel-infused layering. It’s designed for comfort for those looking for a firmer feel and still offers a quilted foam layer for good circulation.

When you’re trying out the mattress, you should be able to lie in one position without moving around for at least a few minutes. If you can do that, you’ve found a good mattress.

Other Factors

Motion: If you share your bed, you want to minimize motion transfer. Try the mattress in the store with your partner, and have your partner switch positions and get up and down from the bed.

Temperature: Most good mattresses have features to help cool your body. A cheaper memory foam mattress is a bad buy if you are easily overheated. Many of our top name brands offer mattresses with multiple layers of foam that allow airflow through the mattress.

Beyond these features, it’s really just a matter of preference. Some people like the bounce and feel of an innerspring mattress, while others prefer the extra pressure relief of a foam mattress. Whichever you choose, it’s important to try the mattress out in the store before making the purchase. Don’t be afraid to stretch out and experiment. It’s a big purchase, and the right mattress can be life- changing.

Contemporary Furniture Features Simple Elements Saturday, August 11, 2018

A contemporary-styled home features clean, light, and functional furniture. Contemporary style is often defined by clean lines, a casual atmosphere, open spaces, neutral colors, and elements and materials inspired by nature. The look hasn’t lost its focus or popularity over the years. Contemporary designs are some of the most sought-after in furniture décor.

While some people like to blend styles, others prefer a home that follows a theme. Whichever your preference, contemporary offers a lot of choices for functional and easy-to-live-with furniture.

• Low Profile

  If you have an eye for contemporary furniture, you’ve likely noticed that most of it is rather low-profile. That means it typically sits close to the ground. Low-profile sofas, chairs, and loveseats instantly seem part of the contemporary design. A good example is the Perth sofa. Make sure the function of the design fits with your lifestyle. If you are sharing the space with someone who has mobility problems, the low-profile nature could create problems.

• Mixed Material

  Furniture will take a contemporary feel with mixed material, like metal and wood. Sometimes the metal can be in the form of a chair or sofa frame; other times it could be along the arms or feet of the chair. Metal mixed with wood and fabric is quintessentially casual and contemporary.

• Sleek

  Bulky cabin furniture will instantly feel out of place in a contemporary home. Look for sleek pieces. Lines can be rounded or sharp depending on the design. Look at the Marshall Bedroom Chest: it is sleek and not ostentatious. It keeps a low profile while being useful in the space.

• Glass Table Tops

  Glass table tops are the perfect complement to a contemporary home. They are easy to clean, sleek, and blend in effortlessly with the world around them. Glass can be mixed with metal or wood and be as large as a dining room table or as small as a side table. A great suggestion is a glass top coffee table that mixed several elements. Once again, just make sure the glass fits your lifestyle. While easy to clean, it’s not so easy on toddlers and small children. The edges are hard and might leave a bruise or two on wobbly walkers. There are several options here.

• Wood

  Wood plays an important role in contemporary design. It can have a new look or be aged or can be mixed between the two. Wood can be present in the frame of a sofa or chair, or it can be the entirety of your coffee table or entertainment center. Light wood, when mixed with other elements like glass or metal, can make the ultimate contemporary dining room table or side table.

Pieces That Act as Storage Friday, August 10, 2018

Functional Furniture: Pieces That Act as Storage

 

You can fill your home with more than just pretty pieces of furniture. Your furniture can actually work for you. Keeping your living space decluttered is essential to a relaxing atmosphere. These furniture pieces can help by acting as the perfect and convenient storage places.

• Opening ottomans

Not only do ottomans serve as a place to put your feet up and add extra seating, some also act as storage. These ottomans typically open from the top and offer ample space to store blankets, games, and toys. If you have space, get a few of them and add lots of extra seating and storage.

• Coffee tables

Yes, they do a great job of holding drinks, plates, and the remote, but many also offer extra storage. Some slide open while others offer cabinet style doors. These tables can offer a convenient place to stow all sorts of items that may pile up in the living room. You can even get a few smaller tables instead of one large one. That way you can scatter them through the room or house.

• Entertainment centers

While many sport the perfect place for your TV and game console, some entertainment centers also offer a ton of extra space for all sorts of gadgets. Before long, you’ll find yourself using every inch of extra space! You may also want to get more than one entertainment center. If you have the space consider one for the game room or office.

• Side tables

Don’t just look to the top of your side table for a place to stack your books, look inside as well. Lots of side tables offer drawers and closable cupboards to store all sorts of knick-knacks that can pile up next to your lounger. Some sofas and chairs actually come with hidden compartments to store small items like remotes!

• Storage Benches

If you need extra storage in your bedroom, a storage bench at the foot of the bed is a great use of space. A storage adds seating for getting dressed and relaxing and a place to store linens, shoes, or even clothes.

• Chests and Dressers

Who says you have to use a chest or dresser in the bedroom? You can use these storage pieces throughout your home as shelves and a place to display pictures. Add one to your living room to store toys and place a mirror on the top with a few pictures and knick-knacks to cozy up your space.

When looking for furniture, always ask about the extra storage options. It’s a great way to declutter your life and enjoy your downtime. Also, try to remember that no piece has to be used the way it was displayed. Play with furniture uses, move pieces around, and have fun!

Watch the World Cup In World Class Style Thursday, August 9, 2018

Is your team still in it to win it? If so, you’ll need to turn your TV room into the place to be for the final game! Forget standing room only, make sure your guests are comfy as they scream "goooooooaaaallll" at your flat screen TV!

• Make every seat the best seat.
  

  Before the big game, test out your seating arrangements. Any dead spots that can’t quite catch the action? Consider temporarily rearranging your furniture. Maybe even bring in some seating from the rest of the house. Don’t just think chairs, think stools, benches, and pillows too!

• Replace those throw pillows and blankets with some team flare!
  

  Bring in the colors of your team! You don’t need logos to match the colors of your team flag. Bright pillows, blankets and even tablecloths in team colors can make all the difference.

• Wow your guests with a few extra touches.
  

  Break up your large sectional sofa with a minifridge of drinks! Use the storage in your ottoman as a place to store extra snacks! Use your sofa table as the perfect buffet! Nested tables are a great way to display snacks and get everyone into the spirit of the game.

• Use a High-Top Table
  

  Add a high-top table and some chairs to your living room or game room. This serves as a place for fans to eat without spilling nachos on the sofa. High-top tables typically come in the 4-seater variety and don’t take up too much space. They can easily be moved to a corner after game day is over.

• Theater Style Seating
  

  If you want to go all out, you can make an investment in theater seating. This is perfect for a game room or home theater. If you can’t spend that kind of money, look into game chairs, bean bags, and large pillows that will provide lower seating options in front of the sofa.

• Buffet Table
  

  A buffet table is perfect for sporting events or any events where you are hosting a crowd. Many can serve as display tables or sofa tables after the World Cup. You can even use a buffet table to section off a specific area if you don’t want snacks all over your living room.

• New TV
  

  It may be time for a new and bigger TV! There are many price options that offer a quick upgrade. For the World Cup or any sporting event, you may want to have a second TV for outdoors or one in the kitchen. That way no one will miss a second of the heart-stopping action.

• Go big this World Cup!
  

  Use your furniture in ways you never imagined (or secretly always wanted to). Create a cheering section or even a penalty box (hey… we know that’s hockey but it‘s still fun!)

Move things around, maybe even purchase a new piece or two to help tie things together. It’s only once every 4 years!

4 Dorm Room Furniture Tips for the Space Strapped Grad Wednesday, August 8, 2018

Moving day is fast approaching! It’s time to decide what comes along for the ride during your semester in the dorm. Space is limited, so you’ll have to be smart about your space and the furniture that occupies it. If you have a roommate, try to be mindful of the furniture you are bringing; keep things neutral and unobtrusive.

If you are lucky enough to have your own dorm room, the sky is the limit! Here are 4 tips that will help you save a bit of space while you enjoy dorm life.

1. Multiple Uses

   This is a must for small dorm rooms. Your big pieces of furniture should serve at least two functions. Consider a futon for sitting instead of a chair or loveseat. That way, over-night guests have a space of their own. Also, a desk that can also serve as a dining area is a great dual purpose item. Just look for a sleek design with open sides for multiple chairs or stools. Also, shelves that can serve as an entertainment center are another option. Look for sturdy shelves that can hold a good size TV.

2. Setup Zones

   Even though it may be a tight squeeze, try to separate your space into useful zones for studying, sleeping, and visiting. Consider creating a social nook with comfy pillows that can serve as chairs. Keep your desk area for work only, and try to get some actual sleep in your bed. Also, separating your areas with small rug can also help set up zones and add warmth to any room.

3. Add Lamps

   Make use of floor and desk lamps instead of fluorescent lighting. Overhead fluorescent lighting is an eyesore, plus it can actually make your eyes sore! It’s known to cause headaches. Try to make the best use of natural light during the daytime and use floor and desk lamps in the evening.

4. Make Use of Storage

   Floor space is severely limited in tiny dorm rooms often requiring creative storage solutions. You should absolutely invest in floor risers to maximize under-bed storage, that way you’ll have room for drawers underneath. You can also buy pieces like this Collins Bookcase that can serve as a place for the TV, books, and clothes or shoes that can remain hidden. If you have room for a nightstand, make sure it has storage space underneath.

Your dorm room has to function as your library, hangout space, dining room and bedroom all in one. Don’t neglect this space. You’ll be spending most of your time there throughout the semester. Take the time to find pieces that will make you feel at home and don’t add to the clutter of the small space.

5 Must Have Summer Accents Saturday, August 4, 2018 It’s time to bring the outdoors in! Summer means making your home cheerful, bright, and fun. You don’t have to spend a ton of money to make a few quick changes. With a little ingenuity, you can brighten up your home in no time!

1. Grassy Green
   

   Nothing says SUMMER like a bright green lawn! Try swapping out some of your colors with a bright green. Lampshades, vases, pictures, and pillows are a quick and easy way to add the perfect pop of summer color.

2. Use Fruits
   

   Yes. you read that right! Try using some of your summer fruits to decorate. A vase full of bright lemons, a bowl full of fresh peaches, or a beautiful hanging of lush grapes! You can graze and amaze at the same time!

3. Light Shelves
   

   Unique and light-colored shelving can brighten any corner of your room. Look for two-toned or even tricolor options.

4. Mirrors
   

   Mirrors will always brighten a space and reflect that inviting summer light. Consider a few mirrors in one room and try grouping them together.

5. Reading Nook
   

   Summer is the perfect time to relax with a good book! If you have an unused corner, consider a small reading nook. A new chair and small ottoman will work, or even a smattering of comfy throw pillows, and a reading lamp!

These accenting touches show off what makes summer the most freeing time of year! Embrace color, light, and relaxation!

7 Signs You Need a New Mattress Tuesday, July 31, 2018
You should be there for 8 hours every night; that’s a third of your life! A mattress matters to your overall health and well-being, so why do so many people neglect a good night’s sleep? Well, most people don’t know how to read the signs of a mattress that’s doing more harm than good. 

Here are 7 signs you may need a new mattress:

1. It’s 8-10 years old - Consumer reports recommend a new mattress every 7 to 10 years. Shocked? Most people are. Many folks can’t remember when they bought their mattress! If you know it’s older than a decade, it’s time to start looking.
2. You move all night - Constantly shifting position? If you can’t get comfy in bed, that’s a pretty sure sign you need a new mattress. Don’t let old springs push on sensitive pressure points. You need a quality mattress that evenly distributes weight.
3. Squeaks and creeks - The ability of your mattress to provide support can be altered by what supports your mattress. Broken or worn out box springs can affect a mattress’s comfort, support, and shape. Squeaks and creeks can damage your mattress and make it wear out faster than normal. Without proper support, you may notice your mattress sagging in the center.
4. The great sag - Speaking of sagging, if you notice yourself rolling towards the middle, it’s time for a new mattress. Sagging can occur as springs break down and lose resiliency. And get this: Sagging and impressions of as little as 1.5″ are linked to increased pain!
5. Allergies - If you find that your allergies seem worse at night or first thing in the morning, it may be time for a new mattress. Dust mites are a huge cause of most allergies. Those little mites love an old mattress. Memory foam and waterbeds are a good way to keep dust mites at bay.
6. You find yourself sleeping elsewhere - Constantly falling asleep on the sofa? Maybe it means you are more comfortable there than in bed. Notice that a hotel is more restful than your own bed? That’s a serious problem.
7. Your back hurts - This is one of the most common reasons for replacing an old mattress. Old mattresses will gradually lose the ability to provide proper support. As the layers lose their compression and shape your body will no longer feel supported in the mattress. This typically manifests in forms of backaches and pains.

Any of this sound familiar? Then it may be time to replace that old mattress with a new more supportive one!

Create a Home Office that Inspires Creativity Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Tolling away in a dark corner of the attic is no one’s idea of a good time. Your home office needs to provide form, function, and maybe a guest room? That’s right, most home offices have more than one use. Many people are tempted to put a desk in the corner of the guest room and try to get some work done. But that doesn’t exactly get the creative juices flowing for a little “at home” work.

 Here are 5 ways to create a home office that inspires creativity:

1. Dedicate the Space

Most of us do not have the room for a dedicated office space. That means you have to claim a small corner of your house as a workspace, and that’s ok! If you’re working in the guest bedroom, think about how often guests actually stay over. If you’re using the space as an office most often, embrace that function.

That could mean choosing a stylish futon over a bed. Or maybe a day bed that takes up less space? Start thinking about the room as your office that also works as a spare bedroom—instead of the other way around.

2. Lighting

Not every room in your house may be blessed with natural light. If your office is one of them, make sure to invest in some lamps. Overhead lights can add extra glare when looking over a computer monitor; lamps add ambient light and can brighten the mood. Think floor lamps that reflect light off the walls and ceiling.

3. More than a Desk

 A home office should be more than a desk and chair. You’ll need some space to stretch out and think. A small lounger or glider rocker can help provide a change of scenery without leaving the room!

Add a whiteboard for tasks and visualizing, a shelf for books, maybe even a coffee corner with a place to put snacks and drinks.

4. Keep it cool

Yes, keep the environment cool and pleasant, but also the colors. When decorating a home office go for blues, greens, and other cool colors. Why? Cools colors calm the mind and help you focus. Save the warmer colors for other rooms of the house. Your home office should be calm and serene.

5. Make it cozy

Don’t let your home office become the room you dread. Make it cozy by adding special touches here and there. Add a rug that ties it all together, put pictures and paintings on the wall, add pillows to your futon or chair, the point is to make it a room you want to spend time in!

The Great Lounging Debate: Sofa vs. Sectional Tuesday, July 31, 2018
 Making a house a home require space for just about everything. Cooking, playing, creating, and sitting around watching Netflix. That last one may be the most important piece of the cozy home puzzle! So how should you lounge? On a traditional sofa or a sectional? First, let’s look at the options.

Sectional Options:

• Chaise Sectionals: A chaise sectional usually has three cushions: with the third being elongated into a chaise.
• L-Shaped Sectionals: These sectionals usually have five cushions: two on one side of the L, two on the other side and then one connecting the L shape. Basically, adding a second sofa to your space.
• U-Shaped Sectionals: U-shaped sectionals typically have a center with two sections extending from either side. They provide the same sitting space as two sofas and a love seat.
• Pit Sectionals: These are less common, as they take a large room to work! These sectionals are more like giant beds with a sofa function. 

Sofa Options:

• Three-Seater: This is the type of sofa you imagine when you hear the word, “sofa.” It seats three people and is great for grabbing a catnap.
• Two-seater: These are typically referred to as loveseats but can fall into the sofa category. These are best when used in conjunction with other furniture and for when space is limited.
• Sleeper: These turn your living room into another bedroom. These are great for houseguests, studio apartments or movie night!

Space Matters

While a sectional may offer more seating options than a sofa, it also takes up more space. A sofa will blend effortlessly into your living room, while a sectional tends to dominate the space. There are ways to make both options work in the right area, but most spaces will lean towards either a sofa or a sectional.

It really depends on the needs of your family and the space of your room. If you need lots of seating and have a large enough space a sectional is a great option. However, if you have a small family or limited space, then a sofa will work quite nicely.

Before going with a sectional be sure to measure, measure, measure! They usually disassemble sectionals for delivery, however, the pieces can still be bulky and may not fit through a doorframe or a narrow staircase.

 

Personal Preference

This also should play a huge role in the great lounging debate. Which do you like best? Some people prefer the cozy look of a plush sectional, while others want a simple sofa to cuddle up with a good book. Another often overlooked option is getting two sofas instead of the sofa and loveseat combo. This can add the seating of a sectional for rooms that might not easily accommodate one. There’s no wrong choice! Just know your options.

The Perfect Pieces to Perk Up a Farmhouse Home Tuesday, July 31, 2018

Farmhouse homes never go out of style. Living simply and brightly is a theme that never strays from the hearts of hardworking homeowners. If finding the farmhouse in your home is where your senses are taking you, check out these perfect pieces of furniture to add to any room.

Mixed Wood
Rustic but not rough! Look for simple, unpainted wood to decorate your farmhouse. Maybe an oversized wooden coffee table, or simple wooden stools for your kitchen island. Use wooden plank shelves or even consider wooden counter tops!

Tips: A wooden entertainment center is perfect for a rustic look. Avoid anything too glossy, look for aged perfection. Also, consider a simple wooden table for your dining room. Again, keep an eye out for a simple design. Don’t be afraid to mix and match wooden finished and textures. Farmhouses tend to blend different elements.

Light colors for furniture
If you want to stay true to a relaxing and claiming farmhouse theme, stay away from bright paint and furniture colors. Instead, rely on throw pillows and curtains for you pops of color.

Tips: Choose light and simple chairs for sitting and a comfy couch for lounging that won’t overwhelm the room. Remember to embrace your farmhouse theme by keeping it simple. You can add pops of color here and there, remembering that the typical farmhouse style is light and airy.


Leather Recliners
Nothing says rustic farmhouse like a pair of leather recliners. Look for a comfortable leather with a slightly worn look, or a leather that will wear well over time. Nothing with a glossy finish.

Tips: Keep your lifestyle in mind when choosing your leather recliner. If you have cats, their claws can do a number on leather. Some leathers can also require special care, so be sure you fully understand the maintenance needs before making the purchase. Nothing says rustic farmhouse like a pair of leather recliners. Look for a comfortable leather with a slightly worn look, or a leather that will wear well over time. Nothing with a glossy finish.


Oversized Ottoman
A larger ottoman is the perfect complement to a farmhouse. It serves as seating, storage, and a place to put your feet up.

Tip: If you have a large space, consider two or more ottomans that can be huddled together as a group for movie night or spread around the room for relaxation.


Old World Touches
Embracing a farmhouse theme will give you the chance to display items that may have otherwise ended up in the “donation” box. Display your grandmother’s pore over coffee maker, show off your grandfather’s wooden gardening tools; these objects go perfectly with the theme and can be used as artful conversation pieces.

Tip: Not everything has to be framed or hung on the wall. Use your aunt’s old pickling jar as a vase or your father’s whiskey decanter as a bookend.

Farmhouse life is all about keeping it simple. However, simple does not have to mean sparse and plain. Don’t be afraid to mix varied textures, materials, and looks.  Hints of metal and pops of color add to the comfy feel of a farmhouse styled home. Just look to what makes you happy and comfortable, then let your furniture choices flow.