Category Archives: Home Design

The Environmental Promise of All-Electric Housing

A rendering of a future, all-electric home.

Electricity was first introduced into people’s homes near the end of the Victorian period in the late 19th century and has been growing in use ever since. Just think about the huge changes in the 1940s when electrical appliances like vacuum cleaners and refrigerators became a part of most households!

Today we face a global energy crisis which has led to a growing demand for clean and renewable energy. Now is the time to flip the switch on the fuels we have been using to power our electricity and appliances and turn on a clean energy home. You can reduce your carbon footprint, improve indoor air quality, and support renewable energy by changing the appliances you use and how the power to run them is generated. And with residential energy use accounting for roughly 20% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the United States, moving to an all-electric home has the potential to help change the world.

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Furniture Solutions for Small Spaces

A curved white couch in the corner of a small space in the living room.

Living in a small space does not mean sacrificing style or functionality. You can create a comfortable and stylish home with creativity and planning, even with little square footage. Space-saving sofas, beds, and clever storage ideas will help you maximize your available space and stay on trend. Whether you are a first-time apartment dweller looking to declutter or a homeowner looking to switch up your aesthetic, read on for inspiration!

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How to Incorporate Native Plants in Your Landscaping

A home with colorful native plants around the exterior.

Everyone knows incorporating native plants in the landscape is good for the environment. The plants supply food and shelter for birds, bees, butterflies, and other wildlife.

Native plants are also good for the wallet. They increase your property value, especially when planted and maintained properly. Here are some tips on how to incorporate native plants into your landscaping plans.

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6 Actionable Tips to Increase Home Safety of Seniors

Two seniors sitting on a couch happily, symbolizing home safety of seniors.

For 88% of people aged between 50 and 80, it is highly desirable to live in their homes as long as possible. However, nearly half of them (47%) give little to no thought to modifying their living places. Such modifications should concern increasing home safety, first and foremost.

Why is a safe living place crucial for the elderly, and how can you make your home more secure to age in?

Let us answer those questions in turn.

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Elevate Décor with Retro Touches

A living room that has incorporated retro touches in the design aesthetic.

Step into your favorite local thrift store, and you will find a goldmine of one-of-a-kind home décor pieces — usually at very reasonable prices. One of the best parts of thrift store shopping is the hunt for great pieces that you know will not be found online or at your local big-box retailer.

Feeling inspired to learn more about how you can incorporate vintage and thrift store finds in your home? Keep reading to learn the history behind different design trends and how you can find cool décor for your home.

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Upgrading Your Lighting: Cool Options to Level Up Your Home

New pendant lights installed over a kitchen island, an option for upgrading your lighting.

Let your home come alive with some new, captivating lighting upgrades! Get ready to bask in the brilliance of cutting-edge illumination that will ignite your senses and elevate the feel of every room. Picture sleek pendant lights casting a spell of elegance while smart bulbs put the power of ambiance at your fingertips. From cozy nooks to vibrant living spaces, each corner of your home can benefit from refreshed lighting fixtures. Embrace the magic of these excellent options and watch as your living spaces take on a new life!

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Cocktail Pool or Plunge Pool: Is It for You?

A cocktail pool outside a home in the Southwest.

Dreaming of an oasis in your backyard without the expense and maintenance of a full-size pool? Look no further than cocktail pools and plunge pools! These compact water features are gaining popularity among homeowners who desire a refreshing escape with a smaller footprint. But what exactly are cocktail pools and plunge pools, and which is right for you? This article will dive into these miniature aquatic havens and explore why they might fit your lifestyle perfectly. If you want to relax with a drink or take a quick dip to beat the summer heat, cocktail pools and plunge pools offer a versatile and space-saving solution.

Let us explore their benefits, design options, and maintenance considerations to help you decide if these compact water features are the missing piece to complete your backyard paradise.

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Reviving Your Space with Wall Paneling

Decorative, wooden wall panels on the wall behind a bed.

Who said that living space should always be neutral? Why should we avoid adding some personality to our space? Sometimes parts of our home such as decor, furniture, and wall color are not always fun and exciting. Fortunately, there are ways to spruce up your living space to make it more interesting. With a little creativity, you can make it a beautiful place to spend time.

The world of design has figured out a way to bring life back to any space by installing decorative wall paneling. This type of wall art is unique and chic, and less expensive than permanent changes in the home. It is a perfect way to ditch the boring old paint and bring some excitement back into your bedroom, living room, or dining area.

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Minimize Environmental Impact & Reduce Waste with Sustainable Renovation

A woman planning to reduce her waste on the upcoming home renovation.

Looking to refresh your home? Consider a sustainable renovation from start to finish by reducing waste, recycling, upcycling, and using eco-friendly materials. 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 13% of all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions come from the commercial and residential sector.  This includes the fossil fuels burned to power heating, lights, cooling, refrigeration, and the handling of waste. Electricity production accounts for an additional 25% of the GHGs.

If you are about to undertake a home renovation, making smart choices can make a difference in the amount of waste and GHG emissions associated with the work.

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How to Bring Summer Indoors

Summer is the season of warmth, sunshine, and joy. But as much as we love being outside, sometimes we want to stay inside and enjoy the comforts of our home. Luckily, there are many ways to bring the feeling of summer indoors, from bright colors to natural textures and scents. In this article, we will introduce some simple and effective ways to bring summer indoors and create a sunny and inviting atmosphere in your home.

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