Create a stunning home bar with these expert design tips.

Are you planning a kitchen remodel? If so, there is no doubt that you are probably considering having an island installed in your kitchen. In fact, believe it or not, an island is one of the most sought-after features during a renovation project. A well-designed island that is proportionate to the size of the kitchen can provide a smooth workflow while making cooking and dining comfortable. You will even find that installing a kitchen island can enhance the space.

Does Your Space Allow for an Island?

When it comes to installing a kitchen island, you might be concerned that your kitchen is not big enough. However, it is important to remember that islands are not a “one size fits all” feature. Even if you are working with a smaller space, that does not mean that you will not be able to install an island. In fact, there are numerous ways a contractor can make it work since kitchen islands are built and tailored according to the design and size of the kitchen. In fact, most companies will customize a kitchen island with reduced depth or height to fit the dimensions of the space.

What Is the Clearance Zone?

An additional factor that you will have to consider when having an island installed in the kitchen is how many people live in your home and how often they use the space. This factor is essential because you will want to have adequate room for everyone to navigate the area. This is called the “clearance zone.” A practical distance from the clearance and the edge of the countertop is at least three feet. This spacing allows for free and safe movement around the island.

Consider a Tailor-Made Kitchen Island

If you decide to have your kitchen island built from the ground up, you can design it to be much more efficient by having drawers, extra storage, and even built-in seating. In fact, your kitchen island can be completely customizable to your lifestyle and space.

Fitting an Island into Small Kitchen

As previously mentioned, kitchen islands vary in size and shape. A fixed island should be at least 40 by 40 inches. Although it sounds small, these nifty islands still provide a good chunk of workspace, and you will still have the option of integrating some of your favorite appliances on the island.

All in all, kitchen islands are a fantastic feature that you may want to incorporate in your kitchen remodel. They provide an additional workspace with extra storage and seating opportunities.

What do you think about kitchen islands? We would love to hear your thoughts below in the comment section.

If you are ready to bring some style to a space with a stylish window treatment, then you are probably either considering purchasing curtains or drapes. Curtains and drapes are popular window treatment options. For many shoppers, both options are considered the same. Although, according to home decor experts, drapes and curtains are quite different from each other.

The Difference

Both curtains and drapes will instantly add a sense of style to a room and make your window more appealing. However, here are some of the key aspects of each form of window covering:

Curtains

Curtains are generally made from a thin and lightweight fabric that is simply designed to add a decorative flair to the window. While window coverings like blinds and shades are installed inside the window, curtains are mounted outside the window. Curtains can partially or completely cover a window depending on what type you purchase and how you install them. Plus, some curtains run to the windowsill while others are floor length.

Curtains are often used in combination with other window coverings such as blinds or shades. Curtains can help extend the life of your existing window treatments by preventing them from continually getting dirty so that you do not have to clean them as often. In addition, you can protect your blinds or shades from damage with curtains.

Since curtains are made from a translucent material and are not usually produced with lining, you cannot expect high levels of privacy and insulation. When used without blinds or shades, you will not be able to block out the light during the daytime.

Drapes

Unlike curtains, drapes are made from thick and heavy materials that can effectively block out the sunlight. Drapes are typically floor length. Compared to curtains, drapes are much more expensive since they are usually of higher quality.

Drapes have excellent insulating and soundproofing properties. Thick thermal drapes will keep the heat inside the room and hold cold air at bay during the winter months. They also provide a dampening effect to loud noises.

While curtains are more informal, drapes are formal and add a sophisticated flair to a room. Therefore, drapes are ideal for a room, such as the dining room or the living room, where you will be entertaining guests.

Now that you have all the facts, what are your thoughts? Do you prefer curtains or drapes? Let us know below in the comment section.

Technological advancements are continually making life simpler and more efficient. We have been seeing smart devices making a tremendous impact in homes today. Being able to be continuously connected and in control of your home is a comforting feeling. With today’s smart devices, we have the ability to control more than ever in our homes. If you are curious about learning about smart devices, here are the best smart devices your home needs:

Smart Lights

Smart light bulbs are the way of illuminating the future. These adaptive lights can be sync with your smartphone or a smart HUB in your home. Using voice command or your cellular device, you can control turning on and off your lights in your home. With some brands, you also can change the color of the light as well as dim them.

Smart Lock and Doorbell

Home security begins at the front door. Smart locks are locks that sync to your phone. Go keyless and just approach your door. When your cell phone is in range, the door will automatically lock or unlock. You can pair this with a smart doorbell as well. Smart doorbells are equipped with a camera. When you get a package delivered, or someone approaches your door, your phone will be alerted. Plus, you can have recorded footage of the time when the individual is in the vicinity of your door.

Smart Thermostat

Keep your electric bill down with a smart thermostat. These thermostats learn when you are home and away from your house. They will turn on or off your heating and cooling system to adjust when you are present. This feature can help save you money throughout the year. You can also adjust your temperature straight from your cell phone.

Smart Security Camera

Another tremendous smart security option is a security camera. These smart cameras can be set up in your home. They will alert your cell phone with a recorded feed whenever movement is detected. Plus, some smart security cameras can begin to learn your animals and individuals to prevent false alerts.

Smart HUB

While a smart device can work with your phone, they can all be synced to a smart HUB. There are a couple of great smart HUBs available on the market today. Find one which works best with your smartphone.

These smart home upgrades can be a game-changer. Stop living in the past and begin to make way for the future. Once you convert, you will never go back. For more home improvement ideas and tricks, make sure to subscribe.

Designing and decorating made simple with Carpets N More.

Interior design has many outlets in which you can personally express yourself and tailor your home to your specific needs. There are hundreds of wonderful design styles that have become staples in many homes. One very popular design is Farmhouse Design. This Rustic Design spin-off is excellent at making a house feel rurally influenced while grounded in a welcoming and homey atmosphere. The blend of earthy tones and warm antique elements mix together to create something truly beautiful. If you love Farmhouse Design, here is everything you need to know in order to master it in your own home:

Earthy Tones

When designing a space, color can have a powerful impact on design. We use warm colors to create a more vibrant and upbeat atmosphere, whereas we may use cool tone colors to make a space feel more relaxed and peaceful. Farmhouse Design uses a neutral color palette but still masters to catch the essence of comfort and tranquility. These earthy tones are brought to life through wood furnishings and decor pieces.

Woods

Wood is full of character. Each area of wood can have its own unique feel. With the raw and authentic grain patterns to the different coarse and fine-sanded textures, woods can bring nature indoors. In fact, it is not uncommon to see wood incorporated through many areas in Farmhouse Design and decor. Usually, Farmhouse Design differs from the traditional Rustic Design by having less high-gloss woods with fine finishes and instead, more grainy textures and coarser looks.

Rustic

What really makes this design is that its roots are made from Rustic Design. In fact, Farmhouse Design should have elements that make the house feel like a farmhouse or a rural living space. Be creative with your decor and design pieces. Incorporate nature and handcrafted furniture. Farmhouse Design can feel even more lived-in than traditional Rustic design with these unique items.

Farmhouse Design is a very down-to-earth and welcoming design style. It can give your home a southern country feels by incorporating the elements we previously mentioned. What do you think of this trending design? Let us know below in the comment section!

Carpet is a timeless floor covering solution that homeowners and businesses continue to use today. In fact, carpet is one of the most comfortable and coziest options to add to a home. It comes in many different styles and can help add the element of texture to your space. While there are thousands of carpets available today, there are some general pros and cons to this flooring option. Understanding and knowing these factors can better help you make a wise and well-educated decision. To help, here are some of the general pros and cons of wall-to-wall carpet:

Pros

Comfort

Wall-to-wall carpet is typically chosen to add comfort to your room. In fact, carpet is one of the most comfortable options that you can add to your floor. When paired with thick padding, it is soft enough to help absorb sounds and falls without discomfort.

Many Options

No matter your design theme, there is a carpet style that can work. From different weaves and strands to colors and patterns, carpet has an endless range of options and styles to explore. This feature can be a great way to add character to your home’s design theme.

Insulation and Warmth

Walking around on tile or hardwood can be cold. Carpet works as an excellent insulator capturing heat. If you like to walk around your home barefoot, this flooring may be the best option for you.

Cons

Staining

While advancements in technology have improved carpet fibers, most carpets can still stain. It is risky to put carpet in a room where you will be eating or drinking or have the opportunity to spill liquids. Pet stains can also be tricky to remove. Even when removed from the surface, some stain can penetrate through the fibers into the padding and leave a foul odor.

Seams

Typically, carpet is made in twelve-foot rolls. This factor means any room over twelve feet will have a seam. No seam is invisible, though they can be difficult to see. The higher the pile is in the carpet, the more unnoticeable a seam may become.

Moisture Absorption

Carpet does not handle moisture well. Liquids can penetrate the fibers and begin to mold. It is best to keep your carpet away from wet rooms in your house like bathrooms or kitchens.

Carpet can come at many different price points. You can find it throughout the whole spectrum of pricing for your home. Typically, the more expensive carpets can come with more features like stain-resistance, nylon fibers, and even waterproofing. And for more information on Carpets N More‘s selection of carpet, please visit us here.

The fireplace is almost always the focal point of any living room, whether it is during the winter months or the summer. Even a nonworking fireplace can be designed to be an attention grabber. How can you take such an architectural feature and turn it into something that your guests will likely remember? Beautifully patterned wallpaper can help you amp up the look of your fireplace.

Why Use Wallpaper

Wallpaper is an inexpensive update that adds loads of aesthetic value. Modern wallpaper designs are a far cry from seventies floral and animal prints. If you have ever shopped for wallpaper, then you know that the design options are nearly limitless. Wallpaper allows you to create a stunning room without taking up coveted floor space. However, to ensure that your project is a success, you should bring in a contractor to make sure that your fireplace is properly ventilated if its in operation. In addition, you should invest in high-quality wallpaper and have it installed by a professional for the best results.

Here are four different ways you can use wallpaper to emphasize your fireplace:

Flank the Fireplace

Assuming that the fireplace is a piece of artwork that covers the surrounding walls, specifically the walls on each side of the fireplace, you can use a bold patterned wallpaper. By applying wallpaper to the walls and not the chimney itself, the fireplace stands out from the rest of the design. To further emphasize the look, you can paint the rest of the fireplace to tie it in the look. Just be sure to select a hue that harmonizes with the wallpaper design to create a vibrant and curated look.

Apply Wallpaper to the Chimney Wall

Perhaps the easiest way to start decorating is to wallpaper the facing. When it comes to installing wallpaper, the price can easily add up when you are covering a large amount of space. Therefore, showcasing the facing or the nook above the fireplace will make a big statement without breaking the bank.

Consider Wallpaper Panels

If you are afraid of making the space look too busy, use wallpaper panels around the fireplace. You can do this by papering sections of the walls surrounding the chimney and using molding between the panels. This option a great way to frame the fireplace and create an accent wall.

Add a Backdrop

What if you have a freestanding fireplace? You can still add character by using wallpaper to give it a backdrop. You can simply install wallpaper around the fireplace or wallpapering the wall behind it to create a statement piece in your design.

Which of these four options was your favorite? We would love to know your thoughts below in the comment section. Thanks for reading!

Adding color to your home’s design is remarkably impactful on the atmosphere. In fact, designers believe that the best way to completely change the environment is by painting your walls. With this in mind, you can see how important choosing the right color can be. However, there are millions of colors to choose from, and this task can feel overwhelming. When trying to select a color for your room, there are four basic rules you should keep in mind. With these in mind, your search can become a little less random and more focused on the right color choice for your home.

Color Inspiration

You will want to have general inspiration going into your project. What colors do you like? Do you have a style or design theme that you would like to mimic in your home? What colors are used as inspiration in those themes or styles? These questions can all help you dial in the choice of where to begin. Do you want a warm-toned atmosphere or a cool-toned atmosphere? Perhaps you are just looking for a neutral color tone in your room. Your color inspiration can come from many different influences. Determine what you want your home to look like before beginning your search.

Match Your Current Furniture and Belongings

If you still have no idea where to begin, use your current furniture or belongings to create a color theme. For instance, maybe you have a blue couch or beige lamp shades. Your personal belongings can be a great start at picking a color. Use these elements to help determine a theme. Even if all your furniture is a different color, the choice you choose should help harmonize your furniture.

Team Effort

If you do not live alone, you should not make this decision alone. Check with your spouse or your roommates because paint is there to last. You want to make sure everyone agrees before making the commitment of painting a room.

Test Your Paint on Your Walls

Lastly, paint can look completely different on a swatch in the store than in your own home. Most stores will have overhead fluorescent lighting. Take your paint choices home and put them on your walls. Look at them throughout the day. They may look different with the influence of natural lighting. Make sure the color you choose agrees all day with your home’s theme.

These rules can help narrow down your decision. Yet, all in all, choosing the right color comes down to you and your personal preferences. Try picking several colors or shades. Decide which one works best with what you want to accomplish in your home.

Create a stunning pillow display on your bed with these easy tips and tricks.