If you loved playing with Barbie dolls as a child, creating a dream house for your Barbie collection was probably a top priority. With the upcoming launch of the highly-anticipated Barbie movie this summer, many may be clamoring for all things Barbie related! Below are some of our favorite items to help create a fun, bright, and playful atmosphere that will make you feel like you are living in a real-life Barbie Dream House.
Pink is the perfect color to use for decorating your Barbie Dream House. It creates a sense of whimsy and fantasy that perfectly captures the playful nature of the classic Barbie brand. A great way to start incorporating pink into your home décor is by adding some pink bath accessories, such as the ones from iMucci. This set of eight pieces, including a soap dish, toothbrush holder, and trash can, will add a splash of pink to your bathroom and help set the Barbie-inspired mood.
Another way you can incorporate pink into your home décor is by adding some art to your living room or bedroom. An art piece such as "Spirit Dance" by Elena Kulikova is perfect for adding some pink and drawing the eye. It's a great conversation starter that perfectly balances elegance and playfulness, making it the perfect addition to your Barbie Dream House.
If you want to sleep like Barbie, adding some bedding elements like the Hotel Collection Duvet Cover Set in hot pink by LaCozi will take it to the next level. This duvet cover set is luxurious and creates a cozy vibe that's perfect for snuggling up. Feel like a princess while enjoying that nostalgia that's associated with the Barbie Dream House. And we can’t forget the Barbie-themed bed! This delightful, upholstered bed from Annie Selke adds just the right touch of pink and white to the bedroom without being too frilly!
To complete the Barbie theme, you should add some stunning, comfortable furniture that complements the rest of your Barbie dream house. The wide velvet Rosdorf Park Priddy 1063 sofa is perfect for Netflix binge-watching. We’re also obsessed with the hot pink dresser from David Francis that could work in a bedroom guest room, front entry, or as a TV credenza. 
Lastly, to help ground the space, we’re loving this beautiful rug from Anthropologie with tons of different shades of pink. This piece would work well under a bed or in a living area to add texture and warmth to the room.
Your ultimate Barbie Dream House is waiting for you, and with the right pink bath accessories, art pieces, bedding, and furniture, you can create a wonderfully whimsical and playful atmosphere that will bring back childhood memories. As you can see, creating a personal Barbie Dream House means giving attention to the details and maintaining that consistent Barbie-esque look throughout your entire home. By following these tips to make your home a true Barbie Dream House, you can enjoy your living space to the fullest while indulging in the nostalgia of your childhood days.
When it comes to choosing the perfect paint color for your home, neutral shades have always been a popular choice. Neutral colors are versatile, and timeless, and can create a calming and inviting atmosphere in any space. With so many options available, it can be challenging to decide on the right hue for your home. In this article, we will explore eight of the best neutral paint colors for both interior and exterior spaces that work well with any style.
Edgecomb Gray – Benjamin Moore
Edgecomb Gray is a soft, warm gray with beige undertones. This versatile shade works well in almost any room, from living rooms to bedrooms and even kitchens. It pairs beautifully with white trim and natural wood tones, making it an excellent choice for those who want a neutral color that can blend seamlessly with various design elements. On exteriors, Edgecomb Gray creates a sophisticated and welcoming look, especially when paired with crisp white accents or bold black.
Chantilly Lace – Benjamin Moore
Chantilly Lace is a pure, bright white that exudes elegance and simplicity. This classic shade is perfect for creating a clean, modern look in any space. Its versatility makes it suitable for both interior and exterior applications. Chantilly Lace works well with contemporary design styles and pairs beautifully with bold accent colors or other neutrals. On exteriors, it can create a crisp, clean appearance that adds curb appeal to any home.
White Dove – Benjamin Moore
White Dove is a warm, off-white color that has become a favorite among homeowners and designers alike. This versatile shade can be used in various settings, from traditional to modern. Its softness adds a touch of warmth and coziness to any space, making it an ideal choice for living areas, bedrooms, and even kitchens. When used on exteriors, White Dove can create a classic and inviting look that complements a variety of architectural styles.
Repose Gray – Sherwin Williams
Repose Gray is a versatile, light gray with a hint of warmth. This popular color is perfect for creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere in any space, from living rooms to bedrooms. Repose Gray pairs beautifully with other neutrals, as well as bold accent colors, making it a favorite among designers and homeowners alike. When used on exteriors, this shade can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to any home.
Revere Pewter – Benjamin Moore
Revere Pewter is a warm, light gray with subtle beige undertones. This popular color has become a go-to neutral for many homeowners due to its ability to work well in a variety of settings. Revere Pewter is perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere in living rooms and bedrooms or adding a touch of sophistication to dining rooms and entryways. On exteriors, this shade can add depth and warmth, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a neutral color with character.
Accessible Beige – Sherwin Williams
Accessible Beige is a warm, inviting beige with gray undertones. This versatile color is ideal for creating a welcoming atmosphere in any space, from living areas to bedrooms. Accessible Beige pairs well with other neutrals, as well as various wood tones and accent colors, making it a popular choice for those who want a neutral backdrop with a hint of warmth. On exteriors, this shade can create a timeless and inviting appearance.
Pale Oak – Benjamin Moore
Pale Oak in a living room. Photo: Havenly
Pale Oak is a soft, light gray with warm undertones that create an elegant and sophisticated look. This versatile color works well in a variety of settings, from modern to traditional. Its subtlety makes it an excellent choice for those who want a neutral color that adds depth without being overpowering. On exteriors, Pale Oak can create a refined and understated look that complements various architectural styles.
White Duck – Sherwin Williams
White Duck is a soft, warm white with subtle beige undertones. This versatile color works well in various settings, from traditional to contemporary. Its warmth creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for living areas and bedrooms. On exteriors, White Duck can create a classic and welcoming look that complements a range of architectural styles.
The bottom line… the best neutral paint colors for your home's interior and exterior depending on your personal taste and the overall design aesthetic you want to achieve. Each of these eight shades offers its unique benefits and can create a beautiful and timeless look in any space. Consider factors such as natural light, existing design elements, and your desired atmosphere when choosing the perfect neutral paint color for your home. And if you’re still not sure which paint color to choose, reach out! We offer paint consultations and can work with you to create the perfect paint palette for your home.
As technology continues to advance, artificial intelligence (AI) has made its way into various aspects of our lives, including interior design. AI-powered interior design platforms have gained popularity in recent years, offering users an innovative and convenient way to plan and decorate their homes. However, as with any technology, there are both advantages and disadvantages to using AI for interior design. In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of using an AI-powered platform to decorate your home.
Pros of AI-Powered Interior Design Platforms
1. Affordability
One of the most significant benefits of using AI-powered interior design platforms is cost savings. While more personalized than AI options, traditional interior design services can be outside the budget for some homeowners. In contrast, AI platforms offer a more affordable alternative, with many providing low-cost access to design tools and resources.
2. Convenience and accessibility
AI-powered platforms allow users to plan and visualize their home's interior design from the comfort of their own home, without the need for in-person consultations or meetings. This convenience is particularly beneficial for those with busy schedules or who live in remote areas with limited access to professional designers.
3. Speed and efficiency
The use of AI technology allows these platforms to generate design plans and renderings quickly and efficiently, reducing the time it takes to create a finished design. This rapid turnaround can be particularly helpful for those working on tight deadlines or who want to see multiple design options before making a decision.
4. Collaboration and sharing
Many AI-powered interior design platforms include social networking features, allowing users to share their designs with friends, family, or even a professional designer for feedback and advice. This collaborative aspect can be helpful for those who need a second opinion or want to involve others in the design process.
Cons of AI-Powered Interior Design Platforms
1. Lack of personal touch
One of the main drawbacks of using AI-powered interior design platforms is the potential loss of the personal touch that comes with working with a human designer. While AI algorithms can generate design suggestions based on user input, they may not fully capture the nuances of an individual's style or personality. Some users may find that their AI-generated designs lack the warmth and character of a design created by a professional. Additionally, AI-generated designs often lack the attention to detail that a human designer will offer.
2. Limited creativity
While AI platforms offer some options for furniture, materials, and decor items, the available options may still be limited compared to the vast array of products on the market. Users may find that their design choices are constrained by the platform's offerings, potentially stifling their creativity and limiting their ability to create a truly unique space.
3. Technical issues and learning curve
As with any technology, AI-powered interior design platforms may suffer from technical glitches or errors that can impact the user experience. Additionally, some users may find that there is a learning curve associated with using these platforms, particularly if they are not familiar with design software or tools.
4. Potential inaccuracies
While many AI platforms use advanced algorithms and 3D rendering technology to create realistic design plans, there is always the potential for inaccuracies or discrepancies between the digital design and the finished product. Users should be aware of this possibility and be prepared to make adjustments as needed during the implementation process. AI platforms also do not have the in-depth knowledge that human designers do when it comes to material performance, product quality or accurate lead times for all the materials that go into a newly designed room.
5. Dependence on technology
Finally, the use of AI-powered interior design platforms may contribute to an increasing reliance on technology for everyday tasks and decision-making. While technology can undoubtedly offer valuable tools and resources, it is essential to strike a balance between embracing innovation and preserving the human element in our lives.
Will Robots Rule?
AI-powered interior design platforms offer numerous benefits, including cost savings, convenience, customization, and speed. However, there are also drawbacks to consider, such as the potential lack of personal touch, limited creativity, technical issues, inaccuracies, and increased dependence on technology.
Ultimately, the decision to use an AI-powered platform for interior design will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and comfort level with technology. If you value the personal touch and expertise that comes with working with a professional designer, an AI platform may not be the best fit for you.
Are you tired of feeling uninspired by your living space? Or maybe you love DIY projects, but you've hit a wall with a room in your house? Whether you're starting from scratch or trying to improve what you already have, an interior designer can help you create the space of your dreams. In this article, we'll outline what exactly an interior designer does, what to consider when hiring one, and how much it typically costs.
What Does an Interior Designer Do?
First, let's make sure we're all on the same page: what exactly does an interior designer do? Essentially, they help you plan and execute a vision for your living space that is functional, aesthetically pleasing, and within your budget. This can include a wide range of services, such as choosing furniture and accessories, selecting color palettes and patterns, rearranging existing furniture, organizing spaces, and even planning and overseeing a full-scale renovation. A good interior designer will also take your needs, lifestyle, and personal tastes into account to create a space that truly feels like yours.
What to Consider When Hiring an Interior Designer
If you're considering hiring an interior designer, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure the best outcome. First, look at the designer's portfolio and social media pages and make sure their style and past projects align with what you're looking for. Some designers specialize in a very specific style while others have the ability to create spaces that originate from a variety of styles. You should also consider their experience and how they work. Some designers are very creative but don’t have experience with in-depth projects or a proven work process in place. Look for a designer that is a great problem solver, but also presents a sound process for working with you and managing your design project. It's also important to have a conversation with the designer to make sure your personalities and communication styles mesh well, as you'll be working closely together throughout the project. Finally, be clear about your budget and timeline from the start, and make sure the designer is comfortable working within those parameters.
How Much Does an Interior Designer Typically Cost?
The cost of hiring an interior designer can vary widely depending on several factors, including the scope of the project, the designer's experience and credentials, and your location. Some designers charge a flat fee for their services, while others work on an hourly basis and bill for their time. Most designers work off a project retainer system that is determined by an average combined hourly rate of their fee, along with any other staff members they have that will work on your project. Typically this rate ranges from $75 - $375 per hour. In addition to these costs, you'll also need to consider the cost of any materials, furniture, or accessories that the designer recommends. That being said, many people find that hiring an interior designer is a worthwhile investment in the long run, as it can save time, money, and headaches by avoiding costly errors and creating a space that truly reflects your style and needs.
*PRO TIP – Make sure you are very clear on how your designer charges and how you will be billed. If you are working with a designer to order furniture, lighting, art, etc., make sure your design contract clearly denotes how and when you will be billed for these items. Some designers mark up the products they are tasked with ordering, but you should never pay more than retail for these pieces if you are also paying a design fee.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Interior Designer Relationship
Once you've hired an interior designer, there are several things you can do to make sure you're getting the best possible outcome. First, be open and honest with your designer about your needs, style, and budget. It's important to communicate your expectations clearly so that the designer can understand what you're looking for and deliver it. You should also be willing to trust the designer's expertise and creative vision, even if it means stepping outside of your comfort zone a bit. Finally, be prepared to be involved in the process; giving feedback and staying engaged will help ensure that the final result is a space that you truly love.
Hiring an interior designer can be a great way to update and improve your living space, but it's important to approach the process with an open mind and clear expectations. By considering factors like the designer's experience, style, and cost, and being willing to communicate and collaborate throughout the process, you can create a space that truly reflects your personal style and needs. So, whether you're starting from scratch or just need a little bit of help, don't underestimate the value of bringing in a professional to help you achieve the home of your dreams.
It’s no secret that as the real estate industry continues to be very competitive, home buyers are looking at more than just the number of bedrooms and bathrooms when they tour properties. They're also looking at the interior design of a place to get a sense of how it would look and feel to live there. Well-curated and updated homes are highly desirable and usually sell for top dollar. At the same time, homes that are designed with only the latest trends in mind, will become outdated quickly and be yesterday’s news before that new shade of mauve paint can dry. In this blog post, we'll walk through some of the biggest interior design trends for 2023 that all homeowners should consider—and which ones can be ignored.
Trends to Adopt
One trend that is sure to be popular in 2023 is sustainability. Homeowners are becoming increasingly aware of their impact on the environment and want to incorporate more eco-friendly elements into their homes. This could mean anything from installing solar panels or investing in energy-efficient appliances & windows to using recycled materials or repurposed furniture.
Another trend that is top-of-mind with home buyers is neutral and earth-tone paints, backsplash tile, and flooring. The days of everything gray are long gone, and design trends are leaning more towards neutral whites and greige paints, followed by lighter-colored flooring and earthy and bright tile selections.
Finally, texture and black matte will be big in 2023 when it comes to interior design trends. This trend focuses on making spaces look lush and inviting by incorporating different textures, patterns, and neutral colors into one room. Think velvet cushions paired with wicker furniture and luxurious throws—the possibilities are endless! Black matte with some touches of gold is also heavily trending when it comes to lighting fixtures, plumbing hardware, and cabinet and door hardware. By emphasizing these updates in your listings, you’ll be able to show potential buyers how they can really make a space their own with minimal effort but maximum impact.
Trends To Ignore
All-white minimalism – especially when it comes to the kitchen – has had its 15 minutes of fame! Buyers are now more interested in
All white & modern kitchens are now outdated!
warm wood tones, texture, and functionality in the areas that are used most – kitchens and bathrooms. Warm, cozy, and inviting rooms are sure to excite buyers, ultimately resulting in a quick sale for top dollar.
Bold colors on the walls in rich hues of greens, browns, and pinks are starting to make a major comeback. However, these very trendy colors may not be everyone’s taste. Stick to light and bright neutral colors throughout the home if you want to appeal to a wide array of buyers.
Accent walls and well-executed millwork can be an asset in any home remodel, but it is possible to overdo it. Don’t go overboard with the board and batten or fluted wall panels. Pick one or two rooms that would benefit from this type of wall treatment and make sure the overall aesthetic works with the rest of the home’s design style.
Conclusion:
The key takeaway here is that there are plenty of exciting interior design trends coming up in 2023 that realtors and homeowners should recognize and leverage when marketing their properties! Sustainability will continue to be important as people become more mindful of environmental impacts; meanwhile warm and neutral décor with lots of texture will add personality and life into any home without having to invest too much money or effort upfront for renovations! Finally, super minimalist decor or the latest shade of pink won't have nearly as much pull this year - so avoid including either one in your listings unless specifically requested by potential buyers! All things considered now's the perfect time to capitalize on these upcoming trends!
Do you have a formal living room that you don’t use? If so, it might be time to repurpose it. With the right interior design, your unused formal living room can become an inviting and functional space for all sorts of activities. Whether you want to create a cozy reading nook or turn it into a home office, there are plenty of ways to make the most out of this room.
Consider turning your formal living room into a game room
Don’t forget to install proper lighting – recessed lights on a dimmer, along with sconces and lamps will provide a variety of options so you can set the proper mood for video games or family trivia night.
Long gone are the days of formal family gatherings in big rooms filled with fancy furniture. If you have an unused space that is collecting dust, some minor design changes can turn a boring space into the heart of the home. Think about what your family likes to do at home or what need your home is not currently filling for how you live. From that, create a plan to transform your living space into rooms that everyone in the family can utilize and enjoy.
When it comes to outfitting your kitchen, the appliances you choose matter. Not only do they contribute to the look and feel of your home, but also how well you can manage day-to-day tasks in the kitchen. From choosing a refrigerator for fresh food storage to selecting a dishwasher that can handle all your dirty dishes with ease - here are some tips on how to pick the best kitchen appliances for your home as part of an efficient workflow system
Research the features you need - Do you want a gas or electric stove, built-in appliances, or a refrigerator with an ice maker included?
Researching the featu
res of each item is key to obtaining the perfect appliances for your needs. For example, do you prefer a gas or electric stovetop? If you like built-in options, then consider if they're available in the style and size that will fit your kitchen space. It's also essential to think about extra features such as an ice maker in the refrigerator. Once you've determined what works best with your home and lifestyle, you'll make an informed decision about which appliance will be perfect for your new home.
Consider your lifestyle - Will you be cooking often or do you just need basic kitchen appliances
Choosing the right kitchen appliances for your home is an important decision to make, and it really comes down to considering how you live. If you're a culinary enthusiast who'll be hosting dinner parties and cooking large meals, then making sure you have the right tools to make your vision come true will be very important. You’ll want to ensure that you buy top-of-the-line appliances that can handle whatever meal idea you come up with. On the other hand, if cooking isn't something that fits into your lifestyle at the moment, then investing in more basic kitchen appliances may be a wiser choice. As long as they do their job properly, then there's no need to buy sleek and fancy equipment. However, no matter which type of kitchen appliance buyer you are, always make sure that your new pieces can integrate into your space as logically and efficiently as possible.
Compare prices and read customer reviews - Check multiple stores and websites to find the best deal and make sure they offer good customer service
When shopping for the best kitchen appliances for your new home, it pays to compare prices and read customer reviews. Look at multiple stores and websites in order to get the best deal. Pay extra attention to customer service ratings, as they could be indicative of how well the company handles any issues that may arise with your purchase. Prioritizing quality products, reliable customer service, and good value will go a long way toward helping you make a smart choice when it comes to finding the perfect appliances for your new kitchen.
Measure your space - Make sure the appliances will fit in the designated area of your kitchen
When selecting kitchen appliances for your home, it's important to factor in the size of the space you have available. An oversized refrigerator may be great for stocking up with plenty of food, but if your kitchen lacks adequate space it'll take up most of the room! Make sure the height, width, and depth of each appliance you're considering will comfortably fit in the designated area of your kitchen before making a decision. Knowing the exact measurements of your kitchen can help ensure you don't choose appliances that are too large - allowing you to create an efficient and inviting cooking oasis.
Pay attention to energy efficiency ratings - Look for ENERGY STAR® certified appliances, which use less energy
Energy efficiency ratings should always be taken into consideration when purchasing kitchen appliances for your new home. Look for ENERGY STAR® certified appliances, as these consume at least 10-50% less energy and water compared to standard models. Reducing your energy output will not only help reduce your energy bills each month but also help the environment. Plus, you might even qualify for additional incentives offered by the government when choosing an ENERGY STAR® certified appliance. Investing in a product with an exceptional energy rating is important to protect both your wallet and our planet.
Ask about installation options – See if any retailers offer free installation or delivery services.
When making decisions about which kitchen appliances to select for your new home, asking retailers about installation options can be a great way to save time and money. Many stores offer free or discounted installation services and delivery, so it’s worth inquiring if any deals are available. Additionally, some shops may have packages and bundles that pair discounted appliances with installation, allowing you to get the job done quickly and easily. Shopping around is the best way to determine exactly what offers might be available.
Here are some of our current favorites when it comes to kitchen appliances (quality & design):
The Bottom Line
Taking the time to shop for the right kitchen appliances is vital for creating a kitchen space that works for you and your family. Regardless of whether you're replacing old appliances or starting from scratch, ask yourself what features you need and how they'll fit into your home and lifestyle. Do your research to compare prices, read customer reviews, and look for energy efficiency ratings. Consider if any retailers offer free installation or delivery services. With all these pointers in mind, you can be sure to find the perfect appliance that both fits your budget and enhances your living space with ease.
As the vacation home rental industry continues to grow exponentially, many people are choosing to add a vacation rental to their investment portfolio. However, to maximize rental potential, vacation homeowners need to consider several design elements before putting up the “for rent” sign. Below are some key things to have in your space in order to stand out from the competition and drive ultimate return on investment.
Do you own a mountain retreat or a cottage by the beach? The first step to creating an amazing vacation rental experience for your guests is to know what they like and what they will expect. If you’ll be catering to families with kids, it’s important to create spaces where kids can play, and grown-ups can enjoy some downtime. If you plan on appealing to luxury travelers, updated & quality décor, along with deluxe linens and unique amenities are key. Do some research on other vacation rentals in your area to get a sense of what’s popular and how you can make your property stand out.
Security and ease of use should be top of mind with every vacation rental homeowner. In order to know who is coming and going at your property, we recommend installing a video doorbell camera, wireless deadbolt, and a wireless security system. Additionally, you will want to be able to control the thermostat & the lights while the property is not in use. Systems like a Nest Home or Simply Safe work well. And don’t forget the threat of water damage! Consider installing a smart water leak detector to ward off any catastrophic water damage that may occur due to overflowing bathtubs, pipes breaking, or water heater failures.
Professional photos of your rental are key to getting attention and making sure that your property will stand apart from the competition. Work with a trusted real estate photographer to take photos of your space that you can use to market the property. And don’t forget the staging! Set the table so guests know how many people can sit and eat. Make the beds, turn on all the lights, showcase unique amenities, and refresh the front entry to showcase a warm and inviting home.
Nothing is worse than being away from home and having a poor night’s sleep. Purchase linens that are soft and cozy but also easy to clean. Our favorites are high thread count sheets from HC Collection and cotton towels from American Soft Linen. And don’t forget the mattress protector, which is a MUST on all beds in a vacation rental. A great mattress and appropriately themed bedding for your location are also a must. Work to coordinate bedding with other accessories in the room and buy at least 2 sets for each bedroom so that you have extras should something get soiled. Additionally, if you have a vacation home in a seasonal location, don’t forget to have lighter and heavier blankets on hand so that your guests are comfortable no matter what the weather may bring.
Who doesn’t love to document their vacation on social media? In order to drive excitement for your property, consider creating a truly unique visual in your space that guests will be proud to brag about. From a unique feature wall in the bedroom to the perfect lounging space on an outside deck – firepit and all – think about which spaces in your home will be most photogenic and capitalize on those areas. *Bonus tip – give your vacation home a uniquely branded name and create social media accounts for the home. Ask guests check-in at those locations and tag the property when posting to social media.
Making the most of the space within your vacation home is key to getting maximum rental income. At the same time, you want to be mindful not to overcrowd rooms with furniture & accessories, which will make them seem cramped. Consider hiring an interior designer to come up with unique furniture options and/or a space plan so you get a good idea of how to utilize each room for maximum rental potential. Various formations of bunk beds, dining tables, coffee tables, and bedroom furniture placement can allow for more renters and better use of the space, which will equal more rental income in your pocket!
Proper lighting in good working condition is very important to any vacation rental. Again, consider how your guests are going to be using the space and plan accordingly to properly light a room. Bedrooms should all be equipped with some overhead lights, as well as bedside lamps that can be used while your guests read or watch TV. Dining areas should have a chandelier or pendant lights to adequately light the space. And don’t forget the layers! All rooms should have various lighting sources that will work as task lights or ambient lighting, depending on what your guests are doing in the space. *Bonus tip – double-check all outlets and lamp cords for defects or needed repairs. Missing electrical outlets or lamps in poor repair can become a major safety hazard.
Ready to take your vacation home to the next level? Feel free to reach us via email or phone for your free design discovery call today. We work with homeowners to create inviting and unique vacation rental properties – curating everything from the furniture to the silverware. 480-613-6537 or info@macylanedesigns.com.
With more people spending time at home than ever before, remodeling is a very big trend among homeowners. Yet not all remodeling projects are created equal. There are a few factors to consider when deciding what spaces you should update and how to do it.
Not all home updates translate to increased home value. If you are focused on improving your home with resale in mind, you’ll want to focus on the highest-impact updates. If, however, you’re planning on living in your home for many years still, then you’ll want to consider factors beyond investment alone.
An equally important consideration to remodeling is the increased pleasure of living in your home. From customized features and colors to added functionality, you want to enjoy your home while you live there, not simply wait out the time until you move to the next place!
Remodeling is a juggling act– balancing your dreams, skillset, and finances! So, we’ve created a manageable list that will guide you through what things cost and how much you can expect to get back on your investment.
While most home buyers begin shopping online and view pictures of the entire space, there is a critical moment when they drive up to your home and determine if they might like to live there. Potential buyers usually decide if they like a home within the first 30 seconds of seeing it, so great curb appeal is a must if you plan on getting the highest possible price for your home.
There are a few key things to pay particular attention to in the local housing market. First, think about the last time your home was painted and the current condition of the stucco and other outdoor features. Nobody wants to deal with peeling paint or cracked and chipping hard surfaces.
Next, the blazing summers also make it difficult for many families to enjoy their yards. Adding features like a pool or shaded area will undoubtedly be worth the investment!
Prioritize Updated Kitchens and BathroomsThe old saying of “Kitchens and bathrooms sell homes” still rings true, even in our current housing market. There are the rooms where people spend the most time, so updates in both spaces will definitely pay off.
Kitchens specifically will benefit the most from flooring, paint, and cabinetry updates. Everyone wants a lot of space to cook, do homework, and gather with family and friends, so it’s a great idea to review available counter space and think about adding or reconfiguring an island.
Bathrooms require both durability and beauty. Tiled showers are making a classic comeback over the acrylic tub/shower inserts. Closed shelving and plenty of vanity storage allow for organization and styling opportunities. Finally, pay special attention to the vanity lighting and mirror to maximize the space
Basic Kitchen Renovation Costs:
Basic Bathroom Upgrade:
You’ve seen home renovation projects where simply taking out dingy tile or downtrodden carpet immediately lifts the room. And the best part is that replacing flooring is a relatively inexpensive project, with more flooring options available at every price point than ever before!
Choose flooring that will fit with the overall aesthetic of your home, but also stand the test of time. Warmer climates often call for tile or tile alternative flooring such as luxury vinyl. Homes in cooler climates do well with cozier flooring options like hardwood, hardwood alternatives, or carpet.
While flooring grounds the room, the color of your walls largely determines the mood and function of the space. The colors you choose will bring out different emotions and have an overall impact on how you feel in the home.
For example, blues and purples encourage relaxation, while reds and oranges call for attention. Stay away from the rustic golds, oddly bright hues, or taste-specific murals and aim for light and neutral colors to help increase resale value.
Professionally Painted Large Room:
Remodeling? Let Us Help!
It’s always a challenge to balance the essentials of a worthwhile remodel: function, design, and return on investment. It takes a well-trained eye on current design prices, a pulse on the real estate market, and an honest opinion on the skill level and cash required to pull off a project.
At Macy Lane Designs, we specialize in partnering with our clients, allowing them to drive the project but lean on our years of experience. We will enable you to bring a well-constructed plan to your contractor, which means you can be confident that you are spending your money the best. Contact us today for a free consultation!
As we begin a new year, many homeowners are considering making updates to their homes. One of the biggest changes you can make to increase the look and feel of your space, as well as the value of your home, is installing new flooring. Before you break out the jackhammer, read on to learn more about what products are hot and how much new flooring in Arizona may cost you.
While it may be very exciting to get new flooring, before applying any new materials (for the most part) the old flooring needs to be removed prior to installation. As you are calculating the cost of new flooring for your home, be sure you factor in the cost of removal:
Average Cost to Demo Hardwood: $4 SQFT
Average Cost to Demo Tile: $3.25 SQFT
Average Cost to Demo Engineered Hardwood: $4 SQFT
Average Cost to Demo Vinyl: $1 SQFT
If you have tile in your home that needs to be removed, you can opt for a “dustless” removal process that helps keep your home clean and free of all debris that goes along with removing old flooring. On average, dustless removal will be $2 to $3 dollars more vs. standard removal techniques.
There are so many uses for vinyl flooring; it’s no wonder that it’s rising fast as an affordable, sustainable, and fashionable option.
Vinyl is durable and easy to clean while often less expensive and more available than other flooring options. While vinyl used to be an immediate throw-away from outmoded 70’s design, modern technology has changed the uses of vinyl. From one large sheet of cheap flooring, luxury vinyl now offers an endless array of designs and textures to mimic wood and stone.
Luxury vinyl typically falls into two categories: planks and tile. The main difference between a plank and a tile is its dimension, with a plank having a rectangular shape and a tile a square shape.
Vinyl planks are often used to imitate a hardwood floor at a fraction of the price and a limitless array of colors, widths, and textures. You can get luxury planks that appear hand-scraped or wire-brushed. If you prefer neutral grays, you’ll find those shades too! You can even get planks crafted with a micro bevel on the edge of each plank, making it seem like your floor is genuine wood.
While vinyl planks can also imitate stone, it’s more common to see stone textures in vinyl tiles. Vinyl tiles are a great, durable option for kitchens and bathrooms in particular! Add some grout for a professional finish that could dupe for real marble or stonework.
Luxury Vinyl Pricing
Average professional install per square foot: $3 SQFT
Average price per square foot for materials: $2-$5 SQFT
Average total cost: $8 SQFT
Engineered hardwood is an excellent option if you want to incorporate real wood but still keep costs down. Engineered hardwood has two parts-- the veneer and the core. The veneer is the thinnest part that shows the desired color and texture. The core is made of less pretty wood but offers the long-lasting durability you need from your floors.
There are a few different kinds of hardwood that will change the location and ease of install.
Last is the easiest and newest option-- the click-lock method. Click-lock planks have grooves that easily fit together and stay locked once placed. It’s become an increasingly popular option since you can ditch the glue and nails and works equally well on cement and wood subfloors. It also makes it easiest to replace small sections if damaged!
Engineered Hardwood Pricing
Professional Install: $4 SQFT
Price per square foot: $6-$10 SQFT
Average cost: $14 SQFT
If you’ve got the budget, nothing can truly replace authentic porcelain or ceramic tile. These tiles can be handcrafted in a variety of shapes and sizes. If you’re going for a more customized look, these tiles can make a great statement.
While each tile material has its place, it’s important to note that porcelain and ceramic options are not interchangeable. Porcelain tiles are rated at a greater hardness, meaning that they are less likely to break and chip when used on the floor. Ceramic tiles are softer, so you’ll likely have a smaller range of selection approved for flooring.
Porcelain price per square foot: $2-$30, but most people spend between $3-$10
Porcelain Professional Install: $4.25 - $10 per square foot
Ceramic tile per square foot: $0.50-$35
Ceramic Professional Install: $4-10 per square foot
The price of your hardwood floors can range dramatically depending on the class of wood you’re looking for. Most commonly purchased hardwoods range from $6 to $12, making them competitively priced with vinyl options. Still, if you prefer more exclusive or exotic woods, you can quickly go over $40 per square foot.
Installation costs are similar to the cost of engineered hardwood. However, keep in mind that more intricate patterns-- like herringbone-- will cost more.
Finally, hardwoods can require more maintenance than other types of flooring. They can be at higher risk for scratches and warping (clean liquid spills immediately). Real hardwood floors offer a luxe look but may not be practical for homes with small children or pets.
Professional Install per square foot: $8 to $18 SQFT
Price per square foot: $6-$12, up to $40+ for exotic flooring
Average cost for new hardwood floors: $14 to $35 per square foot
Pro Tips:
Need Help Narrowing Your Options?
There are so many great and affordable flooring options now available, so it can be challenging to know which product will be the best use of your time and money. You may also need help determining how your flooring will combine with your existing appliances, paint, finishes, and decor. Should you need assistance with picking out the perfect flooring for your home, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are happy to help!
