Mix Up Your Decor with Mixed Media Wednesday, July 24, 2019

Unexpected combinations can add interest and drama to your home design. Unusual combinations created through mixed media home décor and furniture using mixed materials can make your design a memorable one.

Let’s explore a few ways using mixed media can spice things up.

Metal and Wood

Wood and metal are a classic combination that can be found in the living room, bedroom, and dining room alike. While it isn’t new, look for fresh treatments and combinations to enhance your room’s style. Try a dramatic combination of dark oak and glistening polished stainless steel for a modern effect, or pair distressed wood with a rustic metal for a farmhouse feel.

For a contemporary dining room, try centering your space with a clean-line table featuring a simple wood base and glass top. A glass table is surprisingly versatile and a refreshingly unexpected. To add a rustic vibe to your living space, try an occasional table with a distressed wood top and metal base.

A Touch of Glass

Adding a bit of glass into the mix is a great way to introduce mixed media to your space. A metal coffee table with a glass top is the perfect fit for a contemporary living space. Metal and glass shelving can add function to your home office. Wood and glass can also work well together in the dining room.

A Little Change

If you like the mixed materials look but aren’t looking for a big change or major purchase, look to an accent piece like an end table, coffee table, or sofa table. While small in price, occasional tables lead the way in the bold use of mixed media. Choose from a wide range of material combinations and styles, as well sizes and features to fit the needs of your room.

Don’t be afraid to go bold with your use of mixed media. These pieces can easily become statement and conversation pieces that will tie your décor together.

Visit any one of our eight locations across East Texas and Louisiana today and bring the perfect accent table, coffee table, end table or TV Stand.

Making the Perfect Bed for a Restful Night’s Sleep Wednesday, July 17, 2019

Time to kick your bedmaking game up a notch. Making your bed first thing in the morning may seem like a small accomplishment, but in reality, it sets the tone for the rest of the day. Plus, and this is a biggie, a bed that is made up also encourages you to get a restful night’s sleep.

Let’s look at a few tips to make the perfect bed for a restful night’s sleep.

First: Protect Your Mattress

The first step to making your bed starts with protecting the mattress. You should start with a mattress protector that keeps your mattress fresh and you feeling comfortable. A mattress protector acts as a top-of-bed barrier, protecting your mattress from dust, dust mites, allergens, liquids, and stains. You can also select a mattress protector with features to keep you cool and comfortable at night. By reducing heat that can get trapped next to the body, a mattress protector can help create a healthy night of rest.

Next: Sheets

The next step to making your bed is having the perfect set of sheets to help keep your bedding clean and provide comfort and style in your bedroom. Choose from materials such as soft cotton or a cotton blend that offers a cozy cotton feel as good as a lustrous and wrinkle free finish. You can also look for features such as deep pockets and over-sized dimensions that will simplify the bed making process. An ultra-thick elastic in your fitted sheet can also help ensure a secure fit.

Then: The Comforter and Pillows

This is mostly personal preference, but an easy-to-maintain comforter is machine washable and easy to change. Keeping the comforter clean is essential to the look of a freshly made bed as well as the feel of a comfortable bed when you crawl under the covers at night.

Having the perfect pillow is also crucial to achieving your best night’s sleep. Pillows come in many sizes and densities, which ensures there is a pillow out there for everyone. Regarding size, there are often regular sized pillows, or XL, which work best for King/California King beds. When it comes to densities or feel, there are pillows that range from soft to firm, and are made of materials such as gel and memory foam.

Last: Throw Pillows & Blankets

No look is complete without the final touches. In this case, we’re talking about throw pillows and throw blankets. Throw pillows, available in a variety of sizes and color schemes, allow endless opportunities to add dimension as well as color to your space.

If it’s the first thing that you do when you wake up, making your bed can give you a sense of accomplishment at the beginning of your day, which will only encourage you to complete task after task.Visit one of our eight locations across East Texas and Louisiana today to find your perfect pillow or mattress protector!

Create a Workout Space That won’t be an Eyesore Wednesday, July 10, 2019

Whether you have a dedicated room or just a section of a larger space, you can skip the monthly gym fees and create an energizing space that you love to workout in. You don’t need a huge house or a lot of fancy gadgets to get a great workout.

Dedicated Space

The most important thing is to create a dedicated space where you can sweat out your stress and recharge day in and day out. If you have a spare room, by all means take it over for the benefit of your health. But a space in your living room, bedroom, or home office will also work just fine.

Make the Time Fly By

The right TV or Media Stand will help set-up the perfect entertainment corner in your home gym. Look for a console with shelving to hold your extra workout gear like towels or small weights and a DVD player for home workout programs. Make sure that you choose a TV stand that will fit your space and leave you room to spread out for those days when you want to unroll the yoga mat or pop in an exercise DVD. A corner console will do wonders in utilizing available space leaving you more room for workout equipment.

Storage

If you’re limited on space and have plans to utilize your living room as your workout space, no worries! Choose an entertainment center that is both stylish and functional. Look for one with sliding doors or cupboards to keep workout gear and electronics out of sight when not in use. You can also find great storage options with an accent table or buffet, or even an ottoman that opens from the top.

Whether you are new to working out or it’s already part of your daily routine, designing a workout space is a fantastic way to incorporate healthy habits at home. Create a space that not only reflects your personal style but is also fun and functional.

Factors to consider when buying a mattress Thursday, July 4, 2019

You’re losing sleep at night. You’re waking up with sore muscles in your back. You wake up in the middle of the bed when you started on the side in the beginning of the night. It looks like the time has come: you need a new mattress.

There are so many options nowadays when it comes to purchasing mattresses. What size? Innerspring or memory foam? Regular or reclining? Do I need temperature control? Buy online or in the store? There are several factors to consider when taking the leap to buy a new mattress. These tips will help you be prepared.

Comfort First
While it might be tempting to walk into the store and choose the cheapest option available, you should consider this is a 7-10 year investment. You don’t want to choose something that’s uncomfortable just because the price is right. Take notes of you sleep position, preferred mattress firmness, and if you prefer to be warmer or cooler when you sleep.

Price
While the cheapest option might not always be the right one, the highest price doesn’t necessarily mean the choice for you either. There are holidays throughout the year where there are significant discounts available: Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day. Set a budget for yourself and stick to it. The size of the mattress you’re looking for will be the biggest factor in how much you’re willing to pay.

Size
When it comes to purchasing a mattress, size matters. If you already have the frame, then picking size is easy. But if you’re looking to upgrade or downsize, how do you know which size to choose? For little kiddos, a twin or a full is a perfect fit. They’ve outgrown their crib, but they don’t have anyone else crawling into bed with them. Many couples about to move in together struggle between a queen and a king size bed. An important factor to remember is that the size difference between a full-size and queen-size bed is just 5 inches. A king-size bed is a full 16 inches larger than a queen.

Try before you buy
Comfort can only be determined by actually feeling it yourself. Go to the store. Lay on the bed like you would if you were actually going to sleep on it. Sure, it may feel a little silly, but you don’t want to make a large investment you’ll regret down the line.

A large purchase might be overwhelming, but these tips can help narrow your focus and make a great decision for a good night’s sleep. 

Get Cozy This Vacation Season with Your Cabin-Inspired Decor Wednesday, June 26, 2019

No matter your style, lake homes, lodges, and cabins are a spot for getting away from our everyday routines and enjoying the outdoors, as well as enjoying the comfort of your home-away-from-home. If your lake cabin, camp, or lodge needs an update, read these tips for planning a space where you can truly enjoy this season.

Natural Elements

Bring an authentic, cozy feel to your cabin by using natural materials throughout your cabin or lodge. From pine paneling to wood ceiling beams, natural materials on the walls, floors and ceiling will create a comfortable, rustic background for your lodge furniture and décor.

When it comes to cabin furniture, don’t skimp on the quality or style! Camp and cabin furniture can offer both comfort and rustic style that will bring years of enjoyment. A reclaimed wood bedroom set with details such as a timeless barn door motif is perfect for the cabin’s master suite. It sets the tone for a relaxing weekend away from life’s hustle and bustle.

Maximize Your Space

Since many cabins, camps, and lake houses are small, it’s important to carefully lay out your spaces to accommodate summer guests. Furniture, especially big pieces, should be selected for versatility along with comfort. If possible, choose pieces that serve multiple roles! A sleeper sofa provides comfortable seating by day and a perfect place for guests to sleep overnight.

Details, Details

When you add more than just fish mounted on the walls, cabin and camp accessories can make your weekend get-a-way feel like home. Choose wall art and other accessories that enhance your cabin experience. You can bring the outside in with paintings of water, sunsets, and other landscapes.

Make your camp a perfect escape by focusing on comfort. A soft floor rug can add texture and warmth to a room. Make sure to create a relaxing environment in your home away from home.

5 Interior Design Tricks to Transform Your Home Wednesday, June 19, 2019

Whether you’ve just moved or are looking for a quick, little home pick-me-up, there are some interior design tricks that designers employ that you can easily use with minimal effort and cost.  Take a look at these clever design tips and see how they can inspire you!

1. Wall Colors

Paint smaller rooms in softer, lighter colors to help make the room feel larger. A smaller room has the tendency to seem cramped, but the large windows and light-colored walls reflect the natural light pouring in from the doors, making the room seem larger than it actually is. If you have a large room that you are hoping to make feel welcoming, darker colors will make a room feel smaller.

2. Mirrors Add Light

Mirrors can also be used to make a small space feel larger. For larger rooms, or any room with a more limited amount of natural light, mirrors placed directly across from the windows, will add instant light. Decorative mirrors can also be used in lieu of art to fill empty wall space. Large or small, mirrors add light and dimension to your living space.

3. Mix Patterns and Textures

Nothing adds a spark of interest to your design like something unexpected. Use your couch to make a statement! Choose a fabric or pattern that’s unique, and have it stand out. Or use a single chair to make an impact. For example, if your furniture is mostly gray, choose a chair that incorporates another color, like yellow. Or choose a gray chair in a different fabric than the rest of your furniture.

4. Add Life

Add plants to your living space. Add them to every room, small or large, few or many. Plants are an inexpensive means to accessorizing your space and adding color and texture.

5. Finishing Touches

Don’t forget lamps, rugs, hutches and cabinets, or sofa tables, and accent tables to help bring your space together. Furniture and paint are only the beginning. The true design happens as you create a space that is uniquely yours.

The most important element in design is you. What inspires you? Make sure your home is a true reflection of who you are.

Skip the tie this year and get your dad something special Wednesday, June 12, 2019

Golf balls, ties, gift cards—it’s tough to come up with a great Father’s Day Gift year after year. This year think outside the box and get him the gift of comfort. Here are a few ideas to give dads as a reward for all of their hard work and care for their families.

Recliner
Leather, suede, microfiber, the possibilities are nearly endless. Give dad a great recliner for his man cave or his favorite corner of the living room that’s both comfortable and stylish.

Mattress
Dad works hard day in and day out, and a good night of sleep makes all the difference. Splurge a little this year and give him, and mom too, the gift of a brand new mattress. There are a huge variety of sizes, firmness, and price. If you come into the store, you can even test it out yourself to ensure it’s just what dad needs.

Entertainment Centers
Do you often catch dad watching the big game on his cell phone? Or does his man cave have a tiny box TV set on an old nightstand? Upgrade to a stylish and multifunctional entertainment center. Home Furniture’s wide variety allows you to prioritize how you see fit. Whether space, organization, or style is your priority, there’s a little something for every dad available.

Desk
If your dad has to bring work home often, set aside the TV tray for his laptop and setup a true workspace. The best way to do this is with a desk. Desks are a great spot to finish up work projects, pay bills, file important papers, and so much more. Add a special framed family photo for the perfect at-home touch.

Whether it’s an addition to the home office, man cave, living room, or bedroom, a new piece of furniture just for dad shows how much you love and appreciate his hard work. Save the new bow tie for another day.

4 Tips to Create the Perfect Bathroom Tuesday, June 4, 2019

The bathroom is often an afterthought for most homeowners, but it shouldn’t be. There’s nothing like relaxing in a hot bath or a steaming shower after a long day. The bathroom should be a place to unwind and renew your body. Here are 4 tips to create the perfect oasis.

1. Storage
Design a beautiful and functional shampoo niche. Don’t stick one of those little pre-made corner shelves in your shower. Inset it into the wall, or build it out with some unique tiles. Make it a design feature.

But don’t stop there.

Make sure your vanity has ample space for creams, lotions, and hair ties. If you have a pedestal sink, consider adding an accent cabinet to keep the counter top clutter free.

2. Open Shelving
Install some built-in storage above the countertop, over the commode, or on an empty wall. These open storage spaces will ensure towels or other items are always within reach!

They also allow you to display a few knick-knacks to give your bathroom a more personal feel.

3. Side Table
It may sound a bit extreme to include a side table next to the toilet, but once it’s there, you’ll never know how to live without it! Instead of placing reading material on the back of the toilet, the table helps to keep things neat and tidy. It also serves as a place to rest or charge your phone while in the shower.

4. Keep Colors Neutral
Keep the colors of your paint and countertop neutral and add pops of color with easily changeable accessories like the shower curtain or towels. You can also use these items to show a bit of character with interesting fabrics and patterns. For the harder-to-change options like paint, counters, tiles, and floor, stick to something neutral and classic.

Chances are your design choices in the bathroom will be with you for a while. Stick with things that make you calm and renew your spirt. Cut down on the clutter by choosing storage options that make your life easier.

Spring Cleaning Tips That Will Have Your Home Sparkling Thursday, May 30, 2019

You may be a bit inspired this Spring to get your home in order. If inspiration hasn’t hit you yet, maybe these spring-cleaning tips will help!

Entryway
This space can easily become overrun with boots, coats, hats, and keys. The answer is a little storage to help keep the space tidy year round. This Spring consider a storage bench and pair it with a wall of paintings or family pictures for a cozy feel. You can also opt for something like a sofa table. A sofa table can feature a drawer for keys and mail, and shelves for shoes. It’s also minimal enough to accommodate a small accent chair and statement rug.

Bedrooms
Storage beds give you a place to rest your head and stow anything from clothes and accessories to books, games and more. Beds come with many storage options including drawers on just one side, both sides, and/or storage drawers at the end of your bed. A convenient storage solution for small rooms, these platform beds can offer more storage than a dresser, all without taking up any additional floor space. While providing the obvious storage benefits, these beds also help in keeping your bedroom looking clean by leaving more open floor space. It’s a minimalist’s dream and a great organization hack for the rest of us.

Kitchen/ Dining Room
With all the dishes, cookware and appliances we have, it sometimes seems like the last thing we should do is add something new to our kitchen and dining rooms. However, some dining room storage items can help organize your dishes and more helping you get the most out of your space and making it easier to concentrate on your kitchen tasks and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

A dining credenza, sideboard, or buffet can add storage space for your dishes and other items, keeping these items out of sight, or at least neatly displayed. If your dining space is tight, consider a storage dining table. Featuring a shelf area under the table for convenient storage, these kitchen tables make the most out of your floor space.

If you have a lot of small spice jars taking up room on your countertops, you may want to add a wall-mounted shelf to get these items out of the way. Trays, caddies, and crates can also be used to help organize odds and ends in the kitchen, and add a stylish accessory to your space.

If you create storage in your home this spring, it will be much easier to keep your home tidy all year long!

Design Tips for a Large or Awkward Space Tuesday, May 28, 2019

While small living rooms have their own challenges due to their limited space, bigger living areas present their own set of issues too. Bigger than average rooms can be wonderful for entertaining, but not as cozy or even functional for day-to-day living.

Even if your room is not huge, it can be difficult to furnish if it is awkwardly shaped or connected to another space in some way. Keep these tips in mind when designing for a challenging space.

Zones are your Friend
Large rooms can function as so much more than just a large sitting area, but you might have to get creative with how to best utilize the size or shape of the room you have. Identify several possible functional areas within the room, such as a conversation zone, a media zone, an area for a writing desk, a console or a game table, a dining area or perhaps a reading area.

Find an Anchor
Great rooms or large living areas can end up feeling cluttered if you put too many small pieces in the room without a couple of anchoring pieces. A sectional, large sofa, large coffee table, and even built-in bookcases or a piano will help anchor a room so smaller pieces can be tucked in here and there as accents if necessary.

Remember Scale
Tall ceilings are a gift! Opt for taller furniture whenever possible. If your furniture has a low profile, your ceilings may feel too tall and your furniture will seem dwarfed. Consider a taller bookcase, an armoire, taller backs on chairs and sofas, and taller accessories.

Think in Pairs
If you can’t find a coffee table big enough for your space, bulk up a larger conversation area with two matching square or rectangle ottomans side by side. You can also use two area rugs for two separate conversation areas rather than one large one. You can also opt for two sofas instead of a loveseat/ sofa combo. And thinking in pairs could also mean using two seating areas separately: one for conversation and one for the TV.

Embrace your large space! Once you get the design squared away, it will feel much more like a blessing than a curse.

Turn Your Home into the Perfect Place for a Marvel Movie Marathon Tuesday, May 21, 2019

There are over 21 movies in the Marvel cinematic universe, and Avengers: Endgame will make 22. That’s a ton of movie watching to get caught up! Your home needs to be ready for the most epic movie marathon to date. If Marvel isn’t your thing, there’s always Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Die Hard, or countless more marathons for family time. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you get your home ready for a fantastic movie marathon.

Sofa Seating

When you have a room that is primarily used for watching a large screen, seating is paramount. Every seat has to be “the best seat in the house.” You have to take into account both 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.

•          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, it adds 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.

•          Reclining Sectionals: Not only is every seat comfy, but they also recline.

Recliner Seating

Recliners are also a great way to add style to your movie-watching space. They take up less space than a sectional and function better than a traditional sofa for this type of space. For a member of your family with mobility problems, check out the power recliners. There are also plush options for an extra comfy feel, or sleek options that will take up less space.

Entertainment Center

Depending on your needs, you may want to hang your TV on the wall and use a TV Stand with Fireplace underneath. You can also opt for a more traditional entertainment center. Larger centers have room for every entertainment device in your house. It can be a home for multiple consoles, streaming devices, smart home devices and more.

Just make sure your family is comfy for quality watching. Happy streaming!

Free Up Space with Creative Storage Options Sunday, May 12, 2019

Room after room, clutter can pile up: paper in the kitchen or dining room, toys in the kids’ rooms, and shoes and coats by the entry way. You need a solution for your storage. You don’t have to use unsightly plastic bins or boxes, because your furniture should work for you in a variety of situations, like storage.

Keep these tips in mind when shopping for furniture to relieve your clutter woes and free up valuable space in your home.

Start at the Entry Way
Begin at the beginning. The entry way into your home can become overwhelmed with shoes, coats, bookbags, and more. Consider putting an open buffet table near your door. The top can serve as a place for phones and keys, the open second shelf is ideal for bags, and the underside can keep shoes out of site. If you don’t like the open option, there are always lockers, tree halls, and beautiful cabinets to keep your items neat and orderly.

Move to the Living Room
The heart of your home, and likely your most cluttered area, is the living room. Toys, blankets, books, and more can easily pile up on sofas and side tables. Look to multifunctional furniture to help organize your living room. Not only do ottomans serve as a place to put your feet up and add extra seating, some also act as storage. Storage ottomans typically open from the top and offer ample place to store blankets, games, and toys.

But don’t stop there! Coffee tables are also a great place to keep things out of the way. Some slide open while others offer cabinet style doors. Side tables are also wonderful for hiding toys and books. Look for pieces with ample drawers for a clutter free table top.

Entertainment centers can be the ultimate stylish storage space. While many serve as the perfect place for your TV, lots more offer a ton of extra space for all sorts of gadgets. Shop around for an entertainment center that has display shelves as well as cabinets to keep gaming consoles and DVDs out of site.

Next up, the Kitchen
Don’t let your paper and appliances pile up in the kitchen. Look to storage pieces that can put your clutter neatly out of sight. Think about buffets, serving tables, and hutches: pieces that have drawers for documents and cabinets for larger appliances. No need to keep your pressure cooker on the counter when it can be neatly tucked away.

Don’t Forget the Bedroom
Clothes and shoes have a way of piling up in the bedroom. Kids’ bedrooms also offer unique storage challenges with sports equipment and toys thrown into the mix. For an adult’s bedroom, look to dressers, chests and even TV stands to accommodate your needs. Make use of the many drawers and cabinets to keep clothes and shoes off of the bed or floor. In kid’s rooms, try under-bed-storage and bunk beds that can also come with options like drawers in the staircase.

Make sure the pieces of furniture you choose are more than just “pretty.” Functional furniture should be stylish and useful.

Celebrate Mom with Amazing Gifts for Her Home Wednesday, May 8, 2019

This year, go beyond the normal bouquet of flowers and a card for mom. Give her the gift of comfort and style for her home. Whether you choose a piece of furniture, art, or a fresh spring accessory, these gift ideas are sure to put a smile on mom’s face.

Classy Storage: Instead of the usual piece of jewelry, consider giving mom a beautiful and more practical gift: a place to store all of her favorite necklaces, bracelets, or even clothes and bedding. A TV Stand with storage or an accent piece with storage makes a useful addition to her bedroom and features convenient storage to help organize and protect her items.

Recliner or Glider: A beautiful wooden or upholstered glider rocker is a perfect gift for any mom or grand-mom. Choose a stylish and, most importantly, comfortable rocker where she is sure to log countless hours rocking her sweet little baby to sleep. Whether it’s for the nursery or living room, there are many stylish options available ranging from traditional rocker recliners to swivel chairs and gliders.

Wall Art: Switch up your gift of accessories this year! Instead of choosing a necklace, hat, or scarf for mom, opt for room accessories that she’ll enjoy day after day. Switching out some accessories is an easy and inexpensive way to update her home for spring. Choose wall art featuring mom’s favorite flowers, framed art with an inspirational quote, or just paintings and other home décor accessories in her favorite shades.

Shelving: What mom doesn’t need more room for, well, anything? A beautiful new bookcase can provide a place for souvenirs, antiques, tools, and even books! Help mom clear some of the clutter in her living room or office by gifting her a little extra space.

Celebrate mom in style this year by giving her useful gifts she will cherish year round.

Adding an In-Law Living Space to Your Home Tuesday, May 7, 2019

As assisted living costs continue to rise, older Americans are choosing to move in with their children and grandkids. But instead of taking the spare bedroom upstairs, they’re moving into their own private in-law suite.

An in-law suite or apartment is a private space for in-laws or parents that is usually attached to or located on the same lot as their grown child’s home. Many in-law suites are custom-built home additions, though converted garages, basements and stand-alone guest houses are also common. These types of dwellings are also referred to as “mother-in-law” suites or “granny apartments”.

If you are considering adding an in-law space to your home, remember, limited space can present unique challenges for furniture and storage. However, there are a few tried and true methods to maximize your space.

• Zone Living
If your in-law suite has a small living space that serves as kitchen, dining room, and living room all in one, create zones for each use. Use rugs to define the living area, then consider a rug of a different texture or shape for the dining area. Make sure your kitchen storage stays in the kitchen area. No need to have the zones bleed over into one another.

•  Use Neutral Colors
It’s a great idea to use neutral colors on walls, floor, ceiling and furniture fabric. A palette of off-whites or beiges will expand the space by appearing to push back the walls.  Soft hues reflect light and will add dimensions to the space. Add pops of color with throws or rugs, but stick to a neutral color for furniture and paint.

• Think Taller
Since space is likely limited, utilize the space above the eyeline. Go up with tall storage options, like a vertical bookcase. Look for one that is tall and thin. It won’t take up much floor space but will utilize the space near the ceiling. Pieces like this also bring the eye up, making smaller dimensions look more spacious.

• Lightweight Furniture Choices
Pick out pieces that have a lightweight appearance as opposed to heavier ones which will overwhelm a small space. For example, select pieces that have slender legs and sleek lines while avoiding those that are boxy. Glass coffee or end tables will take up less visual space than wooden ones because you can see through them. Any furnishings that don’t obstruct views will make an area seem more open.

It may take a bit of creativity, but you can make your in-law suite feel special and cozy. 

5 Exciting Ways to Decorate Your Pool House Sunday, May 5, 2019

It can be tempting to just grab a few pieces of discarded furniture, haul them over to the pool house, and call it a day. But, your pool house will quickly be a buzz with summer guests, so why not make it more inviting and relaxing? Just follow these quick and easy steps to make your pool house the cool new summer hang out.

1. Used is OK…BUT
Used furniture for your pool house is perfectly fine, but you should consider spending a little more on a few new pieces. If you use an old sofa, add a few new side tables. Or if your old lounger finds its way to the pool house, buy new lamps. Mix a bit of the “well loved” with “will be loved” furniture.

2. Game Tables
It’s likely your pool guests will need a break from the water at some point, so why not keep them out of the main house and in the pool house during down time? Add a gaming area with board games, cards, or even a ping pong table.

3. Small Space?
If space is limited, ditch the overly masculine and 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. Perhaps a daybed would be a better idea than a full sofa.

4. Indoor/Outdoor Rugs
Nothing will tie a place together and make it a bit cozier than a few well-placed rugs. For the pool house, make sure it’s a thinner rug that will quickly dry from wet footprints. Placing a few rugs in one room will help designate the living space, dining, and gaming area.

5. Use the Outdoors
Open things up a bit! If there’s a way to create an indoor/outdoor space, do it! Maybe your screened-in-porch can serve as the dining area. Make it the dining room by adding all the touches of an indoor dining room. Great lighting, shelves, greenery, and more will help transform a simple porch into an inviting room of the pool house!

Treat your pool house as an extension of your home. Don’t just throw a few pieces in a room and put your feet up. Spend a little extra time adding touches that will make your time there memorable.

7 Must Have Summer Accents Thursday, May 2, 2019

It's time to start thinking about spring and summer decorations (along with warmer weather and longer days). From pastel colors, floral accents, and fresh patterns, get ready to bring these spring decorating ideas and styling tips will have your home ready for warmer days. 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. Springtime Colors

Nothings says Spring like a bright green lawn and pastel flowers! Try swapping out some of your colors with bright green and the other pastel colors of spring. Lamp shades, vases, pictures, and pillows are a quick and easy way to add the perfect pop of spring color to your home.

2. A Fruit Bowl

Yes, you read that right! Try using some spring fruits to decorate. A vase full of bright lemons, a bowl full of fresh peaches, or a beautiful hanging basket of lush grapes all say Spring and Summer. 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 tri-color 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

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

6. Fresh Flowers

Spring means the fields and flower beds are in bloom. Bring some of those glorious colors indoors. Grab a bright vase or two and let the abundance of Spring enter your home.

7. Bright Patterns

Think about purchasing that accent chair you’ve always wanted, and look for bright and flowery patterns. You can also bring in patterns in the form of throw pillows and blankets. They are sure to add pops of springtime to your couch and bed.

These accenting touches show off what makes spring the most renewing time of year. Embrace color, light, and relaxation!

Turn that Above the Garage Apartment into a New Hangout Tuesday, April 30, 2019

You probably have a great space above your garage you’ve been meaning to get to. You don’t want the hassle of tenants, and the kids are still to young to put that garage apartment to use on their own. Well, here are a few ideas to take that amazing space and create your family’s newest hang out!

A Game Room
Turn that garage space into a game room. Invest in seating that inspires conversation and collaboration. Sectional sofas are the perfect pieces of furniture to ensure a good look at the game board or the screen for video gaming. You’ll also need to consider a table and chairs as part of the design. Look to pub dining room sets to keep the atmosphere casual. Also, don’t forget about storage for those games! Accent pieces with cabinets and open shelves are perfect for game night.

A Theater
The right home theater furniture makes movie night and watching the big game a one-of-a-kind experience. When you have a room that is 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 have to take into consideration comfort and view. Just like with a game room, sectional sofas are great for this space, but so are recliners and a more conventional sofa and love seat.

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 a smaller TV stand underneath, or you can opt for a more traditional entertainment center that has room for every entertainment device in your house. It can be a home for multiple consoles, streaming devices, smart home devices, and more.

A Mancave or She-Shed
It can be tempting to just grab a few pieces of discarded furniture, haul them to your man cave or she-shed, and call it a day, but your space could be so much more! A place to display trophies, craft, paint, and relax and have a drink.

Used furniture for your man-cave or she-shed space is perfectly fine but spend a little time on a few new pieces. If you use an old sofa, add a few new side tables. Or if your old lounger finds its way to the cave, buy new lamps. Mix a bit of the “well loved” with “will be loved” furniture.

A Crafting Space
It’s perfectly fine to head over to the dollar store and buy plastic bins to store your crafts. They are cheap, functional, and will not break the bank. But where will you store those plastic bins? How will you organize the chaos? That’s where high-quality shelving comes in. While the bins themselves can be on the cheaper side, you should splurge on sturdy shelves to manage your storage. An accent cabinet is great for hiding away unsightly plastic bins. It will help keep your craft space neat and tidy while keeping your bins at arm’s reach. You don’t want plastic bins cluttering up your formal dining room, but a beautiful cabinet that doubles as storage will fit right in.

An Office
Tolling away in a dark corner of the attic is no one’s idea of a good time. You can create a home office above your garage. Remember, 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 actually leaving the room! Add a white board for tasks and visualizing, a shelf for books, maybe even a coffee corner with a place to put snacks and drinks.

The possibilities for your garage apartment space are endless. Remember to form a clear picture of what you want to get out of the space from the start, so that way the style will fill unified.

Understanding Your Style Will Keep Your Design on Point Sunday, April 28, 2019

When decorating or redecorating your home from scratch, it can be tough to match a particular style in every room of the house, but the last thing you want is to have a contemporary entry-way that leads to traditional kitchen, then a mishmash of style in the living room.

Contemporary and traditional are two of the most popular styles for American homes, but these styles don’t complement each other; they actually work against each other. Traditional and Contemporary are two of the few styles that don’t play well together.

Let’s explore the one that best fits your lifestyle.

Understanding the Separate Styles

Traditional furniture really refers to any piece that resembles the styles of the 19th century or earlier. Furniture from this time period tends to be made of dark, heavy wood. The furniture is often large and heavy. Traditional style is still used often, especially in homes and offices in historic buildings. Traditional rooms are not ostentatious, but often feel somewhat formal. Furniture pieces are often reproductions or “new takes” on furniture from an earlier time.

Contemporary furniture refers to furniture styles that came about after the 19th century. These pieces tend to utilize lighter wood tones, brighter fabrics, and newer materials, like plastic or metal. A contemporary-styled home features a focus on clean, light, and functional furniture. Contemporary style is often defined by clean lines with 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.

Defining Your Style

Most traditional-style homes feature a living room with a sofa, loveseat and two chairs. The space can then be complemented with a coffee table, side tables, ottomans, rugs and more. At least one accent chair will help center the room and help it look like a place for conversation as opposed to watching TV.

In the bedroom, traditional furniture will mean a quality bed with wooden dressers and drawers. The shaker style is perfect for a traditional bedroom with its lack of ornamentations and emphasis on craftmanship.

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 necessarily have to mean bulky, but 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.

Contemporary furniture, on the other hand, utilizes completely different lines and is rather low profile. 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. Bulky furniture will instantly feel out of place in a contemporary home, so look for sleek pieces. Lines can be rounded or sharp depending on the design.

Whether you lean towards traditional or contemporary, it’s important to understand these styles are not meant to work together. Find which one of these styles you are most drawn to and then buy pieces based on that particular scheme.

What to Know Before You Hit the Showroom Floor Thursday, April 25, 2019

Making a large purchase is intimidating. Buying a house, or even a room full of furniture can seem daunting and stressful. 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! Creating your space is exciting. Embrace the process and go into it knowing these things before hitting the showroom.

Style

It’s a good idea to have a sense of the style you are hoping to create with your new furniture, especially if you are outfitting an entire room of your home. Stylists and sales people on the showroom floor can help you stay on track with your chosen style, but only you can decide what you like. Dive into magazines and browse blogs to find the style that speaks to you.

Function

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. Realizing that 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.

If you’re shopping for office furniture, you need to consider what type of office you need. Do you need a space to think, a space to create, or a space that just feels like your own corner of the house? All of these questions help find the function of your furniture. 

Know Your Dimensions

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. Ask yourself how a piece will fit in the intended room as well as how it will be transported there. 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 your home.

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.

Shop the Sales First

From clearance sections to full living room sales, look to the deals first. They may not be exactly the furniture you had in mind, but being flexible can save you big bucks. You know what also saves? Buying the set. Yes, buying the entire living room or dining room set usually comes with a discount and leaves no doubt that everything will flow together perfectly.

If you have an idea of these 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.

Spring is Perfect for Relaxing Indoors and Outdoors Tuesday, April 23, 2019

Spring has the perfect mix of rainy days and beautiful sunshine. It’s the perfect time of year for relaxing both indoors and out. Relaxing days can be taken to the next level with the right furniture. Relax in style this spring with these perfect pieces and accessories.

• Recliner
  

Whether 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 multiple times every-day, 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 cozy for a movie marathon! You can get ones with a detachable lounger for various seating options. They also come in multiple sizes for larger families!

• Throws

Throw pillows and blankets are a great way to add pops of color to your relaxing space. They are also perfect to take outside and snuggle up with while drinking a cup of coffee on those cool spring mornings.

•  Ottomans and Rugs

You can make use of these two cozy items this spring both indoors and out. Ottomans can provide easy and temporary outdoor seating while relaxing by a fire. Rugs are also great on patios to pull your design together and add a bit of color and atmosphere.

Add a little spring to your step by relaxing when you get the chance. Keep an eye out for cozy furniture that inspires you to get a little extra “you” time this spring.