The 7 Products that Pro Decorators Say Aren’t Worth Spending Your Money On

This article has been taken from Apartment Therapy and written by Sarah Lyon, our reliable source on all things Home, Style, and everything in between. If you’d like more information on Products That Aren’t Worth Spending Your Money On, then please visit the linked website.

It may seem like professionally designed spaces feature only the finest, priciest pieces of furniture and decorative accessories—a sculptural lounge chair that looks like it belongs in a museum, a wall hanging made by hand using ancient weaving techniques. And wait, that decorative tray on the coffee table costhow much?

But in reality, there are plenty of affordable designer-approved items that will add function and sophistication to your home. And on the flip side, there are plenty of seemingly “must have” products that designers say aren’t worth the hype. So where can you cut corners? Four designers weighed in on things that aren’t worth spending tons of money on—and the budget buys you should consider for these categories instead.

Lamps

Good lighting is essential in any home, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. “Although there are many beautiful, high end lamps, I have found many fantastic lamps for under $100 online and at local stores,” says Molly Kay Johns of MK Interiors. Many look just as nice as the expensive ones, and you can save hundreds of dollars this way.” If you really want to save big, check out your neighborhood thrift store—we’ve found some great pieces at amazing prices.

Decorative Accents

Step away from that museum-worthy trinket dish—you can likely find something just as gorgeous for a fraction of the price if you do a bit of digging! “Vases, books, and other pieces for shelves and coffee tables can be found at local stores and some online marketplace for a lot less than big brand names,” Johns explains. “You don’t need to spend $900 on a vase for it to be pretty.” Heck, the next time someone sends you flowers, hold onto the plain glass vase. Cut flowers really shine in something that’s simple.

Art

“You can also find some amazing art at estate sales, on Everything But The House, and on Etsy,” notes Elizabeth Stamos, owner and principal at Elizabeth Stamos Design. “This artist has beautiful Paris prints that are really well priced.” You can also create your own art or frame swatches of wallpaper, magazine tear sheets, or blown up vacation photos. As long as you like what’s hanging on your walls, the price doesn’t matter. 

Side Tables

Don’t be afraid to add less expensive furniture pieces to the mix when you’re looking to cut back on decorating expenses. A good place to go cheaper is with occasional furniture like side and end tables. As Johns notes, “When paired with a larger, more substantial, high quality table elsewhere in the space, you can use a less expensive side table, and it will blend in nicely.” Same goes for nightstands in the bedroom—splurge on a headboard or bed, since it’s the focal point but don’t sweat the small stuff. Check out Apartment Therapy’s Bazaar for some viable options. This eclectic side table is available for only $135.

Dinnerware

“For young families, I always recommend the Williams-Sonoma Apilco white plates,” says Shannon Crain of Shannon Crain Design. “They are easy to clean, pretty, and don’t chip! Buying fancy china means some hand-washing is involved, so save money and time with a set of porcelain for everyday.” This particular collection is also microwave-safe and designed for restaurant use, so you know it’s going to stand up to wear and tear.

Entertaining Accessories

As much as we wish every day was a party, you’re likely not hosting seven days a week. So keep your entertaining items budget-friendly, designer Marika Meyer advises. “You can find fabulous home accessories at retail shops like West Elm and CB2 that look great for less,” says Meyer. “I love these CB2 faux cut crystal tea light holders and snapped up a bunch of these for a party I hosted over the holidays. I also love these West Elm drink glasses.  They come in multiple sizes, and the glass feels really refined, so you can use it just as easily for water as you can for cocktails.” If either of these options seem a little too pricey, know that your local dollar store is probably another good destination for basic glassware and candle holders.

Coffee Table Tchotchkes 

No vignette is complete without a candle or sculptural piece, but these items don’t need to cost hundreds. Stamos is partial to this CB2 match striker. Similar pieces are popping up on coffee tables across the country, and it just might be the cheapest way to bring a Goop-endorsed piece into your place.

If you’re interested in buying your first home, then please contact your nearest Denver Realtor to get the most up-to-date information about the Denver Market.

https://www.soldfor1995.com

10 Cheap, Easy Ideas to Make Your Bedroom Look More Expensive

This article has been taken from Apartment Therapy and written by Marlen Komar, our reliable source on all things Home, Style, and everything in between. If you’d like more information on Easy Ideas to Make Your Bedroom Look More Expensive, then please visit the linked website.

While it would be nice to loaf around the house in a silk robe and slip into 1,000-thread-count bed sheets, a super luxe luxe bedroom is not in the cards for me right now. But luckily, it’s easier and cheaper than you think to “fake it ‘til you make it” when decorating a bedroom. Certain upgrades can make your space instantly feel more expensive, and you don’t need Egyptian cotton and designer furniture. Sometimes all it takes is a really great candle, or one of these other smart and relatively inexpensive design tricks.

Upgrade Your Hardware

Think of hardware like jewelry for your bedroom. The same way a big pair of earrings or a statement necklace can perk up a plain outfit, a new set of knobs or pulls on, say, your nightstands or dresser can refresh the whole room. By switching out standard hardware for something a little more visually exciting—from copper handles to crystal knobs and beyond, you can add an extra touch of luxury to your space. Check places like Zara Home, World Market, and Amazon for inexpensive, stylish options.

Zhush Your Pillows

Plump, over-filled pillows are the gold standard at fancy hotels, so bring that same look home. Overstuff your decorative throw cushions so they appear high end. Stylists do this by buying inserts that are slightly larger than whatever their pillow covers are. So if you have a 18-inch square pillow, for example, buy 20-inch inserts. When you’re ready to replace your sleeping pillows, look for ones that are as thick and lofty as you can find. And don’t skimp on the number of them, either. You don’t have to go crazy piling sleeping pillows on, but hotels usually dress their beds with two pillows per person.

Bring in a Tray

Trays instantly class up a room, especially when they’re filled with special trinkets. If you’re planning to put one on a vanity, you can stock it with pretty perfume bottles, favorite creams, and jewelry. If you want a small tray on your nightstand, all you need is a candle and maybe a carafe-and-water glass combo.

Make a Blanket Statement

If you can’t afford new luxury bedding, don’t worry. Focus on your throw throw blanket instead. A big chunky knit throw placed across the foot of your bed will take the focus off a tired duvet or comforter. You can also use a vintage tapestry or piece of fabric to update a plain upholstered headboard—just drape it over the top of the headboard and tuck it in behind your pillows near the mattress.

Add Some Texture

Textural elements can make a bedroom feel layered and visually rich. Try a faux fur throw on a side chair or a sheepskin rug on the floor by the bed to cozy things up a bit. Bring in rattan baskets and look for a fun woven light fixture if you’re into a boho luxe look. You can also sneak pom poms and tassels into the mix on embellished blanketsand pillows. All of this will make your space more exciting and inviting.

Style Your Nightstand

Don’t let your nightstand devolve into a junk drawer that’s basically on display. Regularly empty your drinking glasses, and clear things like hand creams and dogeared paperbacks off its surface. To make your room feel more glamorous, put in a real effort to style out your nightstand. Choose a cute lamp, add in a plant, and think about hanging something small in the empty wall space behind the tabletop. 

Upgrade Your Mirror

If you still have the plain mirror you got during college, it’s time for a change. Try an antique-inspired brass mirror or something curvy that will open up the room. You can also find a model that has a shelf, so you gain a little vertical storage space out of your purchase, too. Mirrors can be expensive, so start your search on Craigslist, at a flea market, or at a garage sale. You can find something great secondhand. For best results, be as specific as possible with your search terms on online marketplaces. And know that if you find a shape you love but hate the finish, a can of paint is all you need to fix that.

Fake Architectural Features

If you rent and can’t make permanent changes to your space or own and just don’t want to take on a massive project, fool-the-eye paint treatments and decorative finishes can make your room’s architecture look much fancier than it actually is. Make faux wall paneling with washi tape or paint a half wall that looks like wainscoting. These kinds of design tricks are quicker and cheaper to execute than you might expect.

Update Your Lighting

Forget the “boob” light fixture that often comes in a builder-grade bedroom. Replace yours with something a little more swanky like a drum-shaped pendant, sputnik lamp, or small chandelier. IKEA has a bunch of inexpensive but trendy lighting options, so start your search there.

Raise The Curtains

Make your room feel bigger by raising your curtain rod two to three inches below the ceiling line. Your room will feel loftier, and your windows will seem larger, making the space, on the whole, feel much more elegant.

If you’re interested in purchasing your first home or ready to upgrade your current home, then please contact your nearest Denver Flat Fee Realtor to learn more information about the Denver Market.

https://www.soldfor1995.com

3 Things to Splurge On for Your Bedroom, And 3 Things You Can Save On

This article has been taken from Apartment Therapy and written by Hannah Baker, our reliable source on all things Home, Style, and everything in between. If you’d like more information on Things to Splurge on In Your Bedroom and Things You Can Save On, then please visit the linked website.

When it comes to decorating any room, it’s reasonable to assume you can’t splurge on every single piece of furniture or accessory you put into the space. Your bedroom—you know, the place you relax, unwind, and spend roughly a third of your life, should certainly feel calm. That said, how should you decide what to spend your money on and where you can cut corners? Well, leave it to the experts. We spoke to three designers on how to get the most out of your bedroom budget, and here’s what they had to say. 

Splurge On Custom Drapery

Because every window and room is different, Haley Weidenbaum, designer and founder of Everhem, says custom window treatments are the place to splurge. “If you want window treatments that look right in your space, it’s best to make the investment in some that are tailor-made for your unique windows,” says Weidenbaum. “When you order custom drapery, you’re designing something specifically for the width and length of your windows—and the height of your ceiling—so you can guarantee they’ll look proportional.” Plus, you’ll want to make sure you have drapery that suits your sleeping needs, whether that be of the blackout variety for the light sleeper or perhaps a sheer option for those who like to rise with the sun.   

Save On Nightstands

Weidenbaum says to go the inexpensive route when it comes to bedside tables. “Nightstands are a heavy use item in the bedroom,” she says. “While you might not realize it, they’re susceptible to a lot of wear and tear. Considering you can find affordable and perfectly sized nightstands at just about any big box or furniture store, the high-end route isn’t worth taking. And in a small space, you don’t even need nightstands. Try flanking your bed with wall-mounted shelves or even a set of simple chairs. All you really need is enough of a surface for a clock, lamp, and maybe a glass of water.”

Splurge On Art

If you’re familiar with LA-based designer Emily Henderson and the way she mixes whimsical vintage pieces with newer products, then you won’t be too surprised by her bedroom splurge suggestion. “The great thing about decor products in 2020 is that there is so much out there that is affordable and really good quality,” says Henderson. “So where I want—and recommend—to spend money is on a really special and/or vintage piece of art you love for your bedroom.” One good piece of art can make your space unique and elevate the overall style. “Plus, it’s something that can easily move with you from room to room, home to home,” says Henderson, so art is always a great investment, even if you’re currently living in a rental. And remember: There’s no need to buy all the art for your home at one time. A solid personal art collection takes time, thought, and careful curation.

Save On Sheets

“Where I would save is bed linens,” says Henderson. “I honestly use simple Target bedding most of the time with a cool throw or quilt.” Henderson is quick not to discount luxury bedding—but if budget is a concern, your money just might not be best spent here, since it’s fairly easy to fake the look of a high end bed. It’s all about the layering. Find a neutral budget bedding set to use as a base and then pile on a few interesting throw pillows and a blanket. This way, you can easily switch out these accessories when you feel like changing up your bedroom without buying all new bedding.  

Splurge On a Mattress Pad and Pillows

Maybe you wish you could replace your mattress—it’s never been that great, but it’s not quite past its prime yet. Well, that doesn’t mean you can’t tweak your sleep setup at all. In fact, designer Maggie Griffin believes in splurging on comfort with a couple of key bed add-ons. “Find yourself a comfy foam mattress pad and pair it with memory foam pillows,” Griffin says. You might be surprised how much these extras make a difference in terms of comfort. 

Save On Decorative Accessories 

When you set out to decorate your bedroom, Griffin says to make sure your space feels tranquil, which means keeping extraneous objects to a minimum. “Be careful not to overspend on too many accessories or furnishings when decorating your space,” says Griffin. “Your bedroom should feel restful and spacious—not cluttered with excess stuff and furniture.” 

If you’re interested in purchasing your first home, then please contact your nearest Denver Fixed Rate Realtor to learn more about the Denver Market.

https://www.soldfor1995.com

9 Wonderful Housewarming Gifts That Aren't Wine

This article has been taken from Better Homes & Gardens and written by Allison Maze, our reliable source on everything Home, Gardens, and everything in between. If you’d like to learn more information about Housewarming Gifts, then please visit the linked website.

Don't get us wrong: Wine is wonderful. But if you want to go beyond the bottle when helping friends, family members, and new neighbors feather their nests, take a cue from these stylish and thoughtful housewarming gifts our editors love to give.

For the decor-savvy nester, spring for a pretty-yet-practical coffee table book. Bursting with wow-worthy vignettes and beautiful interiors, Emily Henderson's Styled will provide the inspiration and advice she craves.

A Happy Houseplant

The houseplant is super hip these days, and even the most humble hints of green can cheer up a room. Opt for a small, easy-care plant or terrariumthat can nestle into a bookshelf or take up residence on a tabletop. A preppy pot doesn't hurt, either.

A Token of Their Neighborhood

Whether it's a vintage postcard featuring their new city or a pillow printed with their ZIP code, a gift with ties to their new locale is both unique and memorable.

A Personalized Address Stamp

Give their address change the ultimate stamp of approval with a handmade design worthy of the snail-mail spotlight.

Stylish Sips

Settling in to a new space calls for a toast. Make at-home happy hour even more enjoyable with a darling set of drinkware. These vintage aqua leaf lowball glasses will leave them swooning.

Tasty Local Treats

Win their hearts through their stomachs with goodies from a local bakery or candy shop. Or, nudge them to get started on their new-city bucket list with a gift certificate to a nearby restaurant.

Luxe Goods

Treat them to something they wouldn't normally purchase for themselves. Little luxuries such as fancy soaps, candles, and lotions will make their new space feel like a serene retreat.

Gift Cards They'll Actually Use

Because you know big-box staples like Target, Lowe's, Walmart, and the Home Depot are bound to be in their future. For creative points, gather cleaning supplies or small home improvement items in a cute little bundle with the gift card. 

Monthly Flower Delivery

Flowers exude a happy, homey vibe -- even among a sea of unpacked boxes. Purchase a flower-of-the-month delivery for a few months so they can look forward to each fresh supply.

If you’re interested in learning more information about the Denver Market and moving into your first home, then please contact your nearest Denver Realtor.

https://www.soldfor1995.com

32 Creative Ideas for Every Blank Wall in Your Home

This article has been taken from Better Homes & Gardens, our reliable source on all things Home, Gardens, and everything in between. If you’d like more information Creative Ideas for Every Blank Wall, then please visit the linked website.

Sick of staring at a stark empty wall? Infuse it with warmth and personality by adding creative artwork, mixed media, and vintage finds.

Stylish Silhouettes

Decorate a dining nook or breakfast banquette with framed family silhouettes. The pieces stand out against the wall with crisp black frames and clean white matting. Arrange the portraits in a neat, balanced composition with even spacing between each piece.

Natural Beauty

Display collected artwork look on a dime. Browse the dollar store for wood frames and customize them with paint. These frames were spruced up with black paint and then distressed with sandpaper to match the look of the vintage botanical prints they display.

Small Space Decor

Don't let a small kitchen space stand in the way of your decor. Hang a pair of floating shelves on a blank wall or in a tight corner and fill them with various frames and ceramics with pretty patterns. To make the display pop, paint or stain the shelves a contrasting color as your walls.

Stick to the Theme

Dress up a bare area with variations on a single decorating theme. The small print hanging directly above this dining table was the inspiration for a beach theme. A collection of artifacts, including seashells and a framed bathing suit, draws attention to the dining area and ties together the whole look.

Wall Letters

Hop on the typography trend and use letters or words to create an artsy arrangement. Use a variety of sizes, colors, and materials in your wall artdisplay. For example, try combining prints of your favorite word or phrase with three-dimensional artifacts in shadow boxes.

Art of Grandeur

A single piece of art can be the solution for an entire blank wall—especially if it's a dramatic size, like this oversize print of the homeowner's state flag. Add emphasis to a single piece of artwork by installing a decorative pendant overhead. To make your own large artwork, stretch fabric around a canvas frame, available at crafts stores.

Gallery Shelf

An expansive floating shelf adds character to a blank wall. Layer framed prints or pictures and favorite accessories along the shelf. If you have a larger wall, hang several shelves and stagger their heights.

Art by Theme

Dress up your walls with variations on a single theme. Pick a subject or motif you love—like this homeowner's interest in birds—and repeat it in a collection of paintings, prints, needlepoints, and more. If you crave a little continuity, frame all your pieces in the same style of frame.

Kids' Gallery

Add a touch of childhood whimsy to any room in your home by framing your children's artwork. Hanging the items in high-traffic areas will make kids feel special, and by choosing traditional gallery-inspired frames, the artwork will blend easily with its surroundings.

Filling the Space

Have you found the perfect piece of artwork but discovered it doesn't fill the wall space the way you'd like it to? Pair it with smaller paintings to make the arrangement feel more robust. By placing smaller paintings on each side of this abstract canvas, the arrangement is in proportion to the wall space surrounding it.

Soothing Solution

Prevent a blank wall from looking stark by filling it with a collection of small prints. Soft landscapes like these ones look soothing placed against a soft white wall. To create a cohesive composition, search for prints of similar sizes and arrange the frames in a grid pattern on the wall.

Headboard Art

Use framed prints to fill up blank space on the wall behind a bed. This arrangement doubles as a headboard. To create the gridlike look, use square black frames and hang them close together, leaving about 2-3 inches between the frame edges.

Reflective Artwork

Looking for a quick but stunning way to fill up a blank wall? Try an oversize mirror. This once-dull corner comes to life with a floor-length mirror in a matte black frame. The mirror adds style to the room and reflects light around the space, making it feel larger.

Just For Kids

Add a gallery installation to your living room, basement, or den using nothing more than chalkboard paint. Section off a wall portion and paint it with chalkboard paint. You may need several coats. Store a bucket of chalk nearby and let the kids unleash their creativity. 

Vintage Posters

For a classic country look, search local flea markets for vintage posters. For a simple framing technique, use poster hangers that allow the piece to simply slide into the frame, and hang the unit up by a ribbon. We made this magnetic poster holder using inexpensive pine boards.

Dress Up an Alcove

It can be easy to overlook small spaces when designing a room, but tucked away spots, such as a niche for a bathtub, are great places to add an ensemble of prints. Group like prints on a blank bathroom wall with frames that match or complement the room's finishes.

Big Business

Colorful graphic art pops off deeply saturated walls. Frame music or movie posters with white frames to make them stand out on colorful walls even more. The look is trendy but sophisticated—a successful vibe for a home office.

Kid's Corner

Enliven a corner of a nursery with whimsical prints both child and parent will appreciate. Finish the look with a pair of picture ledges. Children’s books are known for their colorful illustrations; select your favorite covers and display as art that can easily be changed as the child grows.

Buddy System

Filling a long wall in a living room can be a design challenge. Start by hanging a series of prints with complementary color palettes above the sofa. Partner the wall art with colorful decor elsewhere. Bookshelves create a natural perimeter for the wall art. Display decorative items and small framed artworks on the shelves to complete a pulled-together look for the entire room.

Stackable Style

Collect and paint wooden boxes and crates to fashion your own storage solution and eclectic art display. Use the lower bins to hold photo albums, crafting supplies, or family heirlooms. Hang boxes on the wall so they appear to be floating and fill with decorative items. Finish with a simple frame and your favorite artwork.

Wallpaper That Wows

Framed prints aren’t the only way to make an artistic statement on blank walls. There is a vast array of stunning wallpaper designs that will elevate the look of any room. Bold colors or oversize patterns can especially energize a space.

Custom Furnishings

Flex your DIY muscles and refinish an old piece of furniture to display as a work of art. This dynamically repainted piece sets the tone for the room. Connect stylish furniture to the wall art with one leaning piece that gently rests against the wall.  

Attention Grabber

Draw attention to unique accessories with an oversize piece of artwork. This massive print embraces the contemporary typography trend and draws the eye toward a modern transparent console table. To keep the arrangement looking grounded and intentional, it's flanked by a pair of industrial-style sconces.

DIY Botanical Prints

Update the classic look of botanical prints with this easy DIY project. Silk or plastic greenery is laid on a blank canvas and a coat of spray paint creates the reverse silhouette. A special material called frisket (available in the model-building section of a crafts store) gives the pieces a unique irregular border. Get the step-by-step instructions.

Upper Gallery

Create a gallery of frames above a large window or along the soffit above kitchen cabinets. Use matching frames for your collection and fill with favorite snapshots and fun prints. If you have a colorful space, try a collection of black-and-white images. Or if your space leans more neutral, like this breakfast nook, opt for an assortment of colorful artwork.

Reflective Series

For a lighter alternative to a large mirror, group several smaller mirrors together. The result is a subtle yet stunning wall arrangement. Use mirrors in different shapes such as the ones pictured for a sophisticated cottage look.

Basket Art

For a casual cottage look, hang shallow wicker baskets along a wall as artwork. Here, the woven baskets add texture to the wall, and the natural material pops against cool blue walls. Simple decor in neutral shades keeps the focus on the art arrangement.

Pack It In

Fill blank wall space with a tight arrangement of eclectic artwork above a fireplace or mantel. To keep the wall from looking cluttered or random, make sure the artwork has a similar feel. Here, landscapes with similar colors and neutral frames fit snugly yet stylishly on a small dining room wall.

Laying the Plans

Search antique shops and flea markets for vintage landscape blueprints that double as wall art. This print, with its soft color palette and faded paper, blends easily with a country gardening motif. Hang it over a small console table and accessorize with rustic accents for a cohesive theme.

Bright Spot

Introduce a new color to a space with brightly hued picture mats. These yellow matted prints bring attention to the bed, casting it as the bedroom's focal point. The yellow mats serve as a vivid contrast to the purple-hue bedroom. For a polished look, repeat the mat's hue somewhere else in the room.

Books as Art

Round up a collection of worn or unreadable books with fun covers. Remove the covers and hang them in frames for a literary-theme wall art installation. Or, if you want to keep the books intact, scan the covers and print on photo paper.

A Bit of Nature

Bring the great outdoors inside with nature-inspired artwork. This sunny sitting room includes a large bay window that offers magnificent views of the outside, making these small butterfly prints blend right in on a blank wall. The bright colors on the butterflies' wings add a needed splash of color to the mostly neutral room and coordinate perfectly with other accessories and decor.

If you’re looking to customize your own home, then please contact your nearest Denver Realtor to learn more information about the Denver Market.

https://www.soldfor1995.com

Tips for Arranging, Organizing, and Decorating Bookshelves

This article has been taken from Better Homes & Gardens, our reliable source on all things Home, Gardens, and everything in between. If you’d like more Tips for Arranging, Organizing, and Decorating Bookshelves, then please visit the linked website.

Bookshelves do double duty as storage space for books and display space for accessories. Learn how to decorate bookshelves so they are both fully functional and pleasing to the eye.

For picture-perfect bookcase decorating, resist the urge to pack in accessories on every shelf. Keep a clean look by choosing a one-color or tone-on-tone scheme for vases and figurines, and make sure to mix up shapes. Every so often, step back to assess the overall balance of your arrangement. Place items off-center, or try larger or smaller ones until you like what you see.

Everything Fits

To add interest to your book collection, alternate stacking books horizontally and vertically. One of the best ideas for decorating bookcases is to use decor as bookends. Bold-color accessories and picture frames make great bookends and help the decor stand out on shelves. 

• Clever Ways to Store Books

Less Is More

Mod decor shelves call for a sparse look, so group together a small set of books that are all of fairly uniform size. Accessorize with streamlined vases and metallic decor, leaving lots of open space on shelves to let the accessories shine through. Give the whole shelving unit a pop with a smart-color backdrop.

Office Symmetry

To give office bookshelves an organized feel, gather a wide variety of collectibles. Place your chosen items between books, creating loose symmetry. If you have a picture frame or square shape in one shelf, mirror it with a collectible of a similar shape and size on the opposite side. In a wall of bookshelves such as this, it's important to scatter books here and there to punctuate the look.

Color Smart

Carry your color scheme onto your bookshelf to give the room a sense of unity. Here, accessories on the shelves match the light blue of a nearby throw pillow. Storage cabinets conceal items like toys and movies that you may not want out in the open.

Pretty Panache

Don't forget the power of bookends when decorating bookcases! Use heavy, sturdy decor as a bookend to keep shelves neat and organized. Bookends especially come in handy for paperbacks and slimmer books, which are less likely to stay upright.

Bold Yet Simple

If your book spines lack visual style, decorate bookshelves by painting them a vibrant color to draw focus. To highlight the color even more, choose a single contrasting shade, such as the creamy white floor and ceiling trim work here.

Alternative Arrangement

For a display-worthy decorative bookcase, organize books and decor on staggered shelving. A slanted shelf, like this, is even more interesting with uneven rows and columns. For a living room bookshelf, place the most attention-grabbing titles and artwork at eye level for guests to peruse.

Functional Form

Decor shelves are great tools to keep a workroom organized. Slip magazine holders on open shelves to hold loose papers. Storage boxes conceal clutter and can be a bold color to look more exciting. Use decorative containers and flea market finds to finish off bookshelf decor and plant containers.

• Beautiful Bookcase Makeovers

Jumbled Perfection

Vary heights and create interest by stacking books horizontally; they can then be used as platforms for displaying other objects, like small potted plants. Pull together a small decorative bookcase by arranging the top and bottom shelves in opposite ways.

Lovely Layers

Deep bookshelves give you the luxury to play with layers. Lean artwork along the back of the shelves, and anchor them with books or heavier objects. To decorate the bookcase, place a few small pieces of art near the front of the shelves to give them depth. Bulky vases can hide their heft behind small frames without losing their uniqueness.

Clean Display

Get the most storage and style out of built-in bookcases by filling the shelves with books. Organize shelves by color for a decorative look without accessories. Remember that you can hang decor off shelves as well. These mounted art pieces help break up the lines of books.

• Built-In Bookcases You'll Love

Great Idea

Bookshelves can be used to create visual interest. A bookended stack on the center shelf mirrors the decor below it, all while contrasting the top shelf of loosely arranged and off-center books. When decorating shelves, offsetting accessories provides the biggest impact.

Switch It Up

Try using up otherwise wasted space with a bookshelf. Chances are good you rarely need more than one book at a time, so keeping books in sight but out-of-reach is actually a more storage-friendly solution than keeping items used more frequently, such as wine bottles, up high.

Art Focus

It's hard to know how to decorate bookshelves with an eclectic style. When you have art pieces that have a variety of styles, they can all work together on a bookshelf, as long as colors coordinate. Blue and white live on each shelf, so the bright statue doesn't look out of place near a golden armadillo.

Little Library

Utilize a built-in bookcase as a fashionable and functional headboard. Sconces are mounted, leaving plenty of room for a library of nighttime reading materials and decor. Add more appeal with adjustable reading lights recessed atop the bookcase.

If you’re interested in building your own custom bookshelf in your own home, we suggest you contact your nearest Denver Fixed Rate Realtor to get more information on the Denver Market.

https://www.soldfor1995.com

12 Easy Ways to Decorate Your Front Porch with Flea Market Finds

This article has been taken from Better Homes & Gardens, our reliable source on all things Home, Gardens, and everything in between. If you’d like to get more information on Ways to Decorate Your Front Porch, then visit the linked website.

One of the best parts of summer is outdoor living. It's the chance to gather with family and friends, share a meal, and catch up. So it's important to create both an inviting and function porch or patio that feels like an extension of your home.

But decorating a front porch doesn't have to be a big investment. Turn to thrift stores, flea markets, and estates sales to score vintage finds for your outdoor room. Here are 12 fabulous front porch ideas featuring flea market finds that will make your friends and family eager for an invite this summer. Even if you don't have a front porch, these bold and creative ideas can be applied to any outdoor space.

1. Paint It

Turn to exterior-grade paint to pull together a front porch filled with flea market finds. A colorful rattan table and chair set, scored at a secondhand shop, can easily be updated with white spray paint. Rather than laying a new floor, paint over the existing material to refresh it. A fresh coat of paint on the ceiling and walls can also tie a mishmash of textures together and make the porch look tidy.

2. Upgrade Seating

Add charm to your porch with comfortable furnishings and unique elements. Thrifted ladder-back chairs greet visitors with a warm welcome. Plush pillows sewn out of fabric scraps give furniture a colorful pop. A patterned area rug adds a fun twist to the outdoor space.

3. Pay Attention to Scale

Even small front porches are fitting for flea market furnishings—just make sure to consider scale. A large, solid sofa will make a tight space feel even smaller. Opt for spindly seating, such as rattan or bamboo chairs.

4. Go Green

Just as pillows and throws are important for creating a cozy space, so are plants. Large tropical plants can create a room divide and make you feel transported to another region of the world. Utilize flea market baskets to house smaller plants arranged along the floor and on tables.

5. Mix and Match Styles

Have fun layering in different pieces—old and new—and don't be afraid to mix and match styles. Rugs, furniture, lighting—consider a blend of all of your favorites. This front porch of Jen from Flea Market Fab includes a wood chair, whose frame she scored for $2.50, a carved screen she purchased at a local flea market for $20, and vintage shell hangings.

6. Use Wall Space

Pay attention to wall details. Using your outdoor wall space gives you vertical height and the effect of being in an outdoor room. Vertical gardensand mirrors are always a smart design decision and will add tons of interest to your walls.

7. Don't Be Afraid to Add Color

Embrace a bold color scheme—especially if you're using bargain secondhand decor. Even if your home tends to be more neutral on the inside, you can find small ways of layering color on your front porch through flea market furnishings or accents. Here, a vintage rattan loveseat gets a colorful update with blue cushions and pink throw pillows. A vibrant wall hanging, ottoman, and rug round out the eye-catching outdoor room.

8. Think Outside the Box

We all need functional seating outdoors, but why not think outside the box? A hanging couch or daybed creates a cozy area to relax. And, it gives some style to an otherwise casual aesthetic. Secondhand poufs and pillows, as well as a distressed coffee table, complete this informal look.

9. Rock On

When in doubt, turn to the always-in-style traditional rocking chair. Who isn't excited by the thought of relaxing for a spell on a beautiful front porch sipping some cold tea? And don't fret if the flea market furniture has a few knicks; a coat of primer and your favorite shade of spray paint will easily refresh the chairs.

10. Light the Way

With thrifted outdoor lighting and potted plants, you can create a beautiful focal point on your front porch. Vintage lanterns fill with LED pillar candles guide guests up the stairs. Galvanized metal bins make for easy planters with pretty patina.

11. Create Zones

Divide your outdoor space into dedicated zones to create purpose. Arrange a small seating area with two chairs, a large place for lounging with a sofa, or a dining area complete with table and chairs. Utilize area rugs and lighting to visually separate the spaces.

12. Make it Cozy

There is nothing like spending time outside at dusk. But setting the mood with lights can make all the difference. Update vintage fixtures with dimmable LED bulbs to set the mood. Having extra throws and pillows on hand is another must for entertaining.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Denver Real Estate Market, then contact your nearest Denver Fixed Rate Realtor to get more information.

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The 7 Coziest Heated Throw Blankets to Keep You Toasty All Winter Long

This article has been taken from Better Homes & Gardens and written by Jessica Bennett, our reliable source for all things Home, Gardens, and everything in between. If you’d like more information about your ideal Heated Throw Blankets, then please visit the linked website.

Most of us spend a lot of time cozied up indoors this time of year, but sometimes our go-to throw blankets aren't quite warm enough to ward off winter's chill. Though electric blankets, also known as heated blankets, have been available for years, today's crop is decidedly more beautiful and functional than ever. Warmed by heating elements sewn into the fabric panels, electric blankets are ideal for snuggling up on the couch, layering atop a bedspread, or adding an extra warm touch to the car while you're on the road. Simply plug your throw into an outlet, wait a few minutes for it to heat up, and wrap yourself in whole-body warmth. Here are seven of our favorite electric throw options for every budget and aesthetic (just be sure to use them safely!).

Best Heated Blanket with Multiple Temperature Settings

This heated throw is a top choice on Amazon for its affordability and convenient features. Available in seven colors, the blanket is equipped with 10 heat settings so you can easily adjust the warmth to your desired level of toastiness. The heating technology, which is spread evenly throughout the quilted fleece design, automatically adjusts as needed to deliver consistent heat. Bonus: It's machine-washable and safe for the dryer!

Buy It: Sunbeam Heated Blanket, $39.99, Amazon

Best Patterned Heated Blanket

You shouldn't have to sacrifice style for warmth. This electric blanket comes in a variety of pretty patterns, including this black-and-white buffalo check, so you can coordinate with the existing decor in your living area or bedroom. An extra-long cord makes it easy to bring the warmth wherever you need it, and an automatic 10-hour shutoff provides an additional level of safety.

Buy It: Biddeford MicroPlush Heated Throw, $39.99 (originally $80), JCPenney

Best Faux Fur Heated Blanket

Plush faux fur and a super-soft texture make this blanket a must-have for cold winter nights—even if you don't turn it on! According to one reviewer, "just the throw by itself is extremely warm and cozy." At over 4 feet wide and nearly 7 feet long, this oversized heated blanket is perfect for sharing.

Buy It: Zuri Oversized Heated Faux Fur Throw, $59.49 (originally $69.99), Wayfair

Best Heated Blanket for Travel

The solution to freezing-cold car rides is here: This 12-volt electric blanket plugs into your vehicle's cigarette lighter to provide cozy warmth on the go. It only takes about three minutes to heat up, and the 6.5-foot cord is long enough to reach the backseat. Great for road trips and tailgating, this cold-weather accessory also makes a practical addition to your vehicle emergency kit.

Buy It: Sojoy 12V Heated Electric Car Blanket, $24.99, Amazon

Best Heated Blanket for Couples

You and your bed partner may not always agree on what temperature to set the thermostat, but this heated throw blanket can help you both sleep comfortably. The queen- and king-sized versions include two controllers (one for each side of the bed), so each person can choose their desired level of warmth from the 10 heat settings. The machine-washable design comes in five colors, so you can pick the hue that best coordinates with your bedroom decorating scheme.

Buy It: Biddeford Blankets Comfort Knit Heated Blanket, $60.00, Amazon

Best Plush Heated Blanket

The plush, faux-fur fabric makes this heated throw blanket the ultimate cozy addition to your couch, reading nook, or bed. Made of 100% polyester, it's silky smooth to the touch and features a honeycomb design on one side that reminds of our favorite chunky-knit throws. Five heat settings let you dial the heat up to your liking.

Buy It: Serta Heated Electric Honeycomb Faux Fur Throw, $71.99, Amazon

Best Heated Blanket for People with Cold Feet

If your feet are always freezing, this blanket was made for you. The throw is over 6 feet long and features a foot pocket at the end to keep toes toasty. With plush fleece fabric and three heat settings, it'll keep you warm and snug during movie nights on the couch or chilly afternoons spent with a good book.

Buy It: Beautyrest Foot Pocket Soft Microlight Plush Electric Blanket, $51.99, Amazon

If you’re interested in getting cozy this winter in a new home, contact your nearest Denver Flat Fee Realtor to get more information about our current Denver market.

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14 Small-Space Lessons from a 750-Square-Foot Townhome Makeover

This article has been taken from Better Homes & Gardens from author Deb Schwartz, a reliable source for Homes, Gardens, and everything in between. If you’d like more information on how to makeover a small space, please visit the linked website.

Designer Shannon Claire Smith knows the challenges of small space living. Faced with a dated 750-square-foot Washington, D.C., condo, she used paint and smart furniture choices to transform it into a glamorous retreat. (Only the bathroom underwent a full renovation.) Her tips for making this one-bedroom look and live larger than it is can be applied to any small space. We drew on lessons learned from Smith's interior designs to answer reader questions on making the most of tight quarters.

1. Make Your Room Seem Larger

Smith painted the built-ins blue-black. "Dark colors are counterintuitive," she says. "A lot of people think they make a space feel smaller, but they really make the ceiling feel higher and the room appear larger." Black window casings also draw eyes out, making a space seem larger. White shades trimmed in black retain the effect, even when closed.

2. Go Big on Seating

A low-back sectional actually takes up less space than a sofa and chair would and accommodates her tall husband, Nick Herman. She pushed it right up to the built-ins, leaving just enough room to open the cabinet doors.

3. Simplify Silhouettes

Furniture with simple shapes and strong lines, like the round coffee table, keep a space from feeling cluttered. The table's open brass base has a light visual footprint, and its curves are easy to navigate.

4. Build Continuity

A decorating scheme that flows room to room is key in a small space, where multiple rooms are often visible at a glance. Smith achieved flow with a limited, mostly neutral palette that gets depth and interest from varied shades: whites and ivories, charcoals and grays, navy blues and blacks. She restricted metal finishes to matte black and antiqued brass. Because the front door opens directly into the main room, Smith positioned the dining and console tables to designate a foyer, which ends at the dresser that she stocks like a bar.

5. Use Mirrors

Smith wanted to preserve the illusion of space that the existing mirrored wall created. However, it lacked character, so she installed a grid of molding over it. Seams in the mirror determined the molding placement, and industrial-strength contractor's glue holds the off-the-shelf pieces in place. Hanging art on a mirrored wall creates even more visual depth.

6. Store Smarter

Smith replaced a bulky yet shallow upper cabinet and short glass shelves with deep wood shelves that hold more. A tile backsplash in a classic running bond pattern adds timeless appeal.

7. Use Dead Space

A picture ledge from IKEA turns the space above a shallow counter into a place to display art, store spices, and hang mugs or utensils.

8. Camouflage It

Painting the lower cabinets black blends them with the countertop. Fewer visual interruptions equal a larger look.

9. Add Drama with Paint

Smith's two-tone wall delivers instant style and creates a sense of architecture in a boxy room. The neutral color combo serves as a versatile background that she punches up with accents in warm metals and dusty rose (a throw and artwork).

10. Create Focal Points

Architectural elements, like box molding on the walls, plus a bold ceiling light and a statement headboard, give a room flair. Smith styles the bedside table in layers, starting by leaning a mirror against the wall to anchor the vignette and frame a small painting. Clustering small items gives them greater impact.

11. Create an Illusion

Smith painted the ceiling black in the bathroom because "dark colors are like the night sky—you don't really know where it ends and it makes the room feel wider and taller."

12. Use Every Inch

Open shelves fill a previously empty spot above the toilet to put regularly used items in reach. A round mirror breaks up straight lines and amplifies light.

13. Unify Surfaces

For space-enhancing uniformity, Smith chose white for the large ceramic tiles lining the bathroom walls and the small hexagonal tiles covering the floor. Bonus: Tile is easy to clean, and dark gray grout hides dirt.

14. Build in Storage

Pedestal sinks are often recommended for small bathrooms, but Smith opted for a 36-inch-wide vanity with lots of storage instead. She swapped out the hardware for a custom appearance.

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12 Flower Garden Design Tips That Will Help You Plan a Stunning Landscape

The following article has been taken from Better Homes & Gardens, a reliable source for all things home, gardens, and everything in between. If you’d like more information on How To Plan a Stunning Landscape, then please visit the linked website. Please enjoy the 12 Tips Better Homes and Gardens has for creating your most beautiful flower garden.

Flowers make any landscape more beautiful. But don’t be intimidated by the idea of planting a flowerbed. Use these tips to help you learn how to design a flower garden, and use them as inspiration for creating your own colorful spring landscape.

Research Flower Characteristics

The best flower garden designs incorporate several types of flowering plants, including long-living perennials, short-term (but long-blooming) annuals, seasonal bulbs, ornamental grasses, and vines. Before you officially get started on your flower garden design, do a little research on what types of plants will grow best in your area, what colors and textures they offer, and any limitations or special care they might need.

Choose Your Flower Garden Design Style

Your personal preferences (or your home's architectural style) can help dictate your garden design and set parameters for its size. Different flower garden design ideas and styles lend themselves to different types of plants. For example, a contemporary-leaning landscape might take a minimalist approach and clearly define flower beds with hard lines; a cottage-style garden encourages a mix-and-match approach and whimsical paths and flower beds. If you enjoy bringing flowers indoors, consider a perennial cutting garden.

Determine the Garden's Shape and Size

Flowering plants can be arranged in beds of almost any shape and size, from expansive rectangles to petite corner beds. To get an idea of how your flower garden will fit into the rest of your landscape, use a garden hose to outline the edges before you start digging. Walk around the bed; look at the proposed garden bed from every viewpoint. Test if you'll be able to access plants in the middle or if you'll need to include a path. If you're specifically looking for flower garden ideas for beginners, start small: You can always expand your plan if you want, or go bigger next year.

Select Flowering Plants

Once you've decided on your flower garden's design, shape, and size, it's time to put your plant research into action. Consider show-stopper plants you want to use as a focal point, flower sizes, year-round interest, bloom time, and color combinations.

Supply a Focal Point

Every garden bed, no matter how big or small, needs a focal point that gives the eye a place to start before moving on to the rest of the flowerbed. That could mean anchoring a large bed with boxwood shrubs in the corners and a flowering shrub in the middle or planting a mass of a single flower type in the center of a skinny border. You can also add an interesting piece of garden art.

Evaluate Plant Height

You'll also have to consider a plant’s height when making your selections. For example, if your garden is a border along the house, the tallest plants will need to go in the back but shouldn't be so tall that they block windows or doors. If your flower garden design is an island, the tallest plants should go in the center. Some short plants suffer when shaded by tall plants, so take individual flowers' needs into consideration.

Review Bloom Times

Well-designed flower gardens have plants with year-round interest and staggered bloom times. Evaluate both factors before selecting plants. You don't want to create a garden that's full of color in the summertime but bare in autumn. That's another reason it's important to combine different types of plants—shrubs that provide spring bloom and winter structure, fall-blooming bulbs, and summertime perennials, for example—in your flower garden design.

Select Complementary Flowers and Foliage

Creating the best color combinations in your flower garden design can be tricky. A good place to start is the color wheel. For example, gardens planted in shades of the same hue, like pink, are pleasing to the eye. Colors next to each other on the color wheel, like purple and red, look good together, as do colors across from each other—purple and yellow. Foliage can also provide much-needed texture and color for visual interest when blooms have wilted away.

Rely on Odd Numbers

When laying out your flower garden design, plant at least three (or any odd number) of the same kind of plant, either together or spaced apart. It's a visual design trick that creates cohesiveness so flowerbeds feel less jumbled than a one-of-each-kind collection of plants.

Incorporate Hardscape

Hardscape elements, like pergolas, trellises, and arbors are beautiful complements to flower garden design. If you're crafting a bed that flows from front yard to backyard, for example, an arbor with a climbing rose can help mark the transition from public to private spaces.

Once your research is done and you've decided on all the elements and the garden size, it's time to prep the bed by removing any old plant material (including grass). You may also want to add edging, such as pavers or another material.

Now, it’s time to go get your plants! Shop early in the morning to avoid crowds so you have plenty of time to make your purchase. If you’re shopping in a greenhouse on a sunny day, wear layers because it can get hot (and bring a bottle of water, too). Do your best to stick to your list—it’s easy to get carried away when you're face-to-face with all the beautiful plant options.

Prep, Edge, Purchase, and Plant

Once your research is done and you've decided on all the elements and the garden size, it's time to prep the bed by removing any old plant material (including grass). You may also want to add edging, such as pavers or another material.

Now, it’s time to go get your plants! Shop early in the morning to avoid crowds so you have plenty of time to make your purchase. If you’re shopping in a greenhouse on a sunny day, wear layers because it can get hot (and bring a bottle of water, too). Do your best to stick to your list—it’s easy to get carried away when you're face-to-face with all the beautiful plant options.

Mulch, Water, and Enjoy the Show

Any newly planted flowers should be well-mulched then watered regularly until the plants are established. Monitor your rainfall and water as needed, ensuring that your plants receive about an inch of water a week.

Once your new garden is in the ground, place a chair or two close enough to admire it. Enjoy watching the plants grow and bloom, and take in the view.

In the fall, you’ll want to assess your garden. What did you like? What grew well? Think about what you’d change next spring. Consider whether you want to build a no-dig flowerbed. And do what gardeners do in the off-season: Dream of the next garden.

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