Thanksgiving is a celebration of food, family, and gratitude. But once the guests leave and the dishes are done, what remains? A refrigerator packed with leftovers waiting for their next chapter. Instead of dreading the repetition of turkey sandwiches, embrace the opportunity to transform your leftovers into gourmet creations. Here’s how to give your Thanksgiving remains the culinary love they deserve.

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1. First Things First: Smart Storage

The longevity and safety of your leftovers begin with proper storage.

• Seal the Freshness: Use airtight containers for each dish to prevent flavor mixing and keep everything fresh longer.
• Freeze Strategically: Freeze turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes in portioned bags to make future meals easy. Squeeze out excess air to avoid freezer burn.
• Organize Your Fridge: Place items that should be eaten first (like fresh salads) front and center. This helps prevent overlooked leftovers from going to waste.

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2. Give Turkey a Makeover

Turkey is versatile, making it the perfect canvas for global-inspired dishes.

• Turkey Ramen: Simmer turkey bones with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and scallions to create a broth. Add noodles, sliced turkey, and your favorite veggies for a soul-warming bowl.
• Turkey Enchiladas: Roll turkey with cheese and a touch of cranberry sauce in tortillas. Top with enchilada sauce and bake for a cheesy delight.
• Mediterranean Turkey Salad: Toss shredded turkey with olive oil, lemon juice, fresh herbs, olives, and feta for a refreshing twist.

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3. Mashed Potato Magic

That bowl of creamy mashed potatoes can evolve into something entirely new.

• Croquettes: Combine mashed potatoes with chopped turkey, cheese, and green onions. Roll into balls, coat in breadcrumbs, and fry until crispy.
• Mashed Potato Soup: Blend mashed potatoes with turkey broth, sautéed onions, and cream for a velvety soup. Garnish with crispy bacon or chives.
• Flatbread Base: Spread a thin layer of mashed potatoes on naan or pita bread, top with roasted veggies and cheese, then bake until bubbly.

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4. Stuffing Innovations

Stuffing is already packed with flavor, so repurposing it is a breeze.

• Stuffing Breakfast Bake: Combine stuffing with beaten eggs, diced turkey, and cheese, then bake for a hearty breakfast casserole.
• Stuffing Meatloaf: Use stuffing as a binding agent in your next meatloaf recipe. It adds moisture and seasoning without extra effort.
• Crispy Stuffing Balls: Shape stuffing into small balls, coat in breadcrumbs, and bake or fry. These make excellent party appetizers.

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5. Reinvent Cranberry Sauce

Don’t let cranberry sauce sit idly by. It can brighten both sweet and savory dishes.

• Cranberry Vinaigrette: Whisk cranberry sauce with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard for a tangy salad dressing.
• Savory Grilled Cheese: Spread cranberry sauce on bread before adding brie or sharp cheddar. Grill for a gooey, sweet-savory sandwich.
• Cranberry Barbecue Glaze: Mix cranberry sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a unique glaze on grilled chicken or pork chops.

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6. Veggies in the Spotlight

Leftover roasted vegetables often end up forgotten, but they deserve the spotlight.

• Veggie Risotto: Stir roasted vegetables into a creamy risotto for a comforting, one-pan dinner.
• Roasted Veggie Tacos: Pile vegetables into tortillas with avocado, salsa, and a sprinkle of cheese.
• Vegetable Quiche: Mix vegetables with eggs, cream, and cheese, then bake in a pie crust for an elegant brunch option.

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7. Rolls Beyond the Breadbasket

Rolls aren’t just a side dish; they’re a base for countless creations.

• Bread Bowl Soup: Hollow out rolls to create edible bowls for soups like turkey chili or mashed potato soup.
• Monte Cristo Sliders: Use rolls to make mini Monte Cristo sandwiches. Fill with turkey and cheese, dip in egg batter, and fry. Serve with cranberry sauce for dipping.
• Roll Croutons: Cube leftover rolls, toss with olive oil and seasoning, then bake until crispy. These are perfect for salads or soups.

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8. Gravy Gets Gourmet

Gravy can elevate even the simplest dishes.

• Turkey Stroganoff: Combine gravy with sour cream and serve over egg noodles or rice for a rich stroganoff.
• Biscuits and Gravy: Pour reheated gravy over freshly baked or leftover biscuits for a Southern-style breakfast.
• Gravy Poutine: Layer fries or potato wedges with turkey, cheese curds, and gravy for a Canadian-inspired treat.

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9. Dessert Leftovers Reimagined

The dessert table often leaves its own pile of potential.

• Pumpkin Pie Pancakes: Mix leftover pumpkin pie filling into pancake batter for a seasonal breakfast treat.
• Pecan Pie Ice Cream Sundaes: Chop up pecan pie and sprinkle over vanilla ice cream. Drizzle with caramel for an indulgent sundae.
• Cake Parfaits: Layer crumbled cake or brownies with whipped cream and fresh fruit for a quick dessert.

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10. Create a Leftover Buffet

If you have guests staying over or want to keep things casual, set up a leftover buffet.

• DIY Sandwich Bar: Set out rolls, turkey, cranberry sauce, gravy, and stuffing for custom sandwiches.
• Build-Your-Own Bowls: Offer a base like mashed potatoes, stuffing, or rice, with toppings like turkey, veggies, and gravy.
• Thanksgiving Pizza Station: Provide stuffing crust, gravy as the “sauce,” turkey, veggies, and cheese for personalized Thanksgiving pizzas.

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11. Freeze for Future Feasts

Sometimes the best way to handle leftovers is to save them for another time.

• Turkey Freezer Meals: Portion out turkey into freezer bags with gravy for quick future dinners.
• Stock Up: Use the turkey carcass to make stock, then freeze it in ice cube trays for easy use in soups and sauces.
• Holiday Desserts Later: Freeze slices of pie or cake to enjoy when you’re craving a festive treat but don’t want to bake.

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12. Give Back with Leftovers

Share the abundance by donating or sharing extras.

• Local Charities: Many shelters accept cooked food donations. Check guidelines before dropping off.
• Neighborly Sharing: Package leftovers in small portions and deliver to friends or neighbors who couldn’t attend your gathering.
• Family Meal Prep: If you know someone with a busy schedule, assemble and freeze meal portions for them to enjoy later.

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13. Plan Ahead for Next Year

Turn this year’s leftovers into a lesson for next Thanksgiving.

• Adjust Quantities: Scale recipes to match the number of guests to avoid over-preparation.
• Think Freezable: Choose recipes that freeze well, so leftovers become ready-made meals.
• Repurpose Recipes: Intentionally create dishes that lend themselves to leftovers, like roasting extra turkey for meal prep.

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Thanksgiving leftovers are a gift that keeps on giving. By thinking creatively and using these tips, you can turn your post-holiday fridge into a treasure trove of exciting meals. Whether it’s turkey ramen, pumpkin pie pancakes, or a leftover buffet, there’s no end to the possibilities. Embrace the flavors, experiment in the kitchen, and make your Thanksgiving feast last all week long.

When designing or renovating your home or commercial space, flooring decisions carry significant weight, particularly in high-traffic areas. Whether it’s a busy kitchen, a bustling hallway, or an office lobby, choosing the right flooring for these areas is essential to ensure longevity, ease of maintenance, and aesthetic appeal. Flooring in high-traffic zones must be durable enough to handle the wear and tear that comes with regular foot traffic while still offering comfort and style.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best flooring options for high-traffic areas and discuss important factors like durability, comfort, water resistance, and ease of cleaning. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of various flooring materials, you can make an informed decision that suits both your design preferences and practical needs.

What Qualifies as a High-Traffic Area?

Before diving into specific flooring types, it’s essential to define what we mean by “high-traffic areas.” These are spaces in your home or business where people frequently walk, stand, or move items. As a result, these areas experience more wear, dirt buildup, and the occasional scuff or spill. Common high-traffic areas include:

• Entryways and Foyers: The entrance to your home or office sees a lot of foot traffic and often bears the brunt of outdoor dirt and moisture.
• Hallways: Hallways are frequently used passageways, especially in homes with multiple rooms or in office buildings. Their narrow design can lead to concentrated wear in specific spots.
• Kitchens: The heart of many homes, kitchens are high-traffic due to meal preparation and family gatherings, not to mention the likelihood of spills.
• Living Rooms and Family Rooms: As spaces for relaxation and entertainment, living rooms see constant use, whether from family members or visitors.
• Commercial Spaces: In offices, retail stores, or restaurants, flooring must handle heavy daily traffic, as well as the movement of furniture or equipment.

These spaces demand flooring solutions that are not only attractive but can withstand the heavy wear and tear that comes with frequent use.

Key Considerations for High-Traffic Flooring

When choosing flooring for high-traffic areas, it’s not just about looks. You’ll need to consider various practical factors to ensure your choice can withstand the demands of the space. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:

1. Durability: The flooring material needs to be tough enough to resist scratches, dents, and general wear. High-traffic areas are subject to more damage than low-traffic rooms, so it’s crucial to choose a material that can handle frequent use.
2. Ease of Cleaning: In areas where dirt, dust, and spills are common, easy maintenance is essential. Look for flooring that can be quickly swept, vacuumed, or mopped without special treatments.
3. Moisture and Stain Resistance: Spills, water, and mud are common in kitchens, entryways, and bathrooms. Choosing flooring materials that are moisture-resistant and less prone to staining will extend their lifespan.
4. Comfort: Some areas, such as kitchens and living rooms, are spaces where people stand or walk frequently. In these rooms, consider choosing flooring that offers comfort underfoot, whether through the material itself or by using a cushioned underlayment.
5. Style: High-traffic areas often serve as transition zones between rooms, so it’s important to select flooring that complements your overall interior design. The right flooring should enhance the aesthetic while maintaining practicality.
6. Cost: Durability and longevity often come at a price, but budget is always an important consideration. Some options like vinyl or laminate may offer a good balance of affordability, durability, and style, while other materials like hardwood may require a more significant investment.

The Best Flooring Options for High-Traffic Areas

With the basics covered, let’s dive into the best types of flooring for high-traffic zones. These materials have proven their resilience in busy households and commercial spaces.

1. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) and Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

Luxury vinyl is a standout option for high-traffic areas due to its impressive durability, affordability, and style flexibility. LVP and LVT come in plank and tile forms, respectively, and offer realistic designs that mimic natural materials like wood and stone.

• Durability: Made from multiple layers, luxury vinyl is built to resist wear and tear. It has a protective top layer that defends against scratches, scuffs, and dents, making it perfect for spaces like kitchens, hallways, and entryways.
• Water and Stain Resistance: LVP and LVT are waterproof, making them ideal for moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and mudrooms. Unlike natural wood, vinyl won’t warp or stain when exposed to water or spills.
• Maintenance: Luxury vinyl is easy to clean and requires minimal upkeep. Regular sweeping or vacuuming and occasional mopping are all it takes to keep it looking new.
• Aesthetics: Modern luxury vinyl comes in a wide range of colors and textures, allowing homeowners to achieve the look of hardwood, stone, or tile without the cost or maintenance issues associated with natural materials.
• Cost: Compared to other durable options, luxury vinyl is a more budget-friendly choice, offering a great combination of resilience, style, and affordability.

2. Porcelain and Ceramic Tile

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are renowned for their hardness and durability, making them excellent choices for areas that experience heavy traffic, moisture, and frequent cleaning.

• Durability: Porcelain tile is known for being harder and denser than ceramic, which makes it more resistant to wear and moisture. Both tile options are tough enough to withstand high foot traffic without showing signs of wear, and they are highly resistant to scratching.
• Water Resistance: Tile is inherently water-resistant, making it ideal for entryways, bathrooms, and kitchens. Porcelain, in particular, has a very low water absorption rate, making it the best choice for areas that may see frequent spills or moisture.
• Maintenance: Tile flooring is very easy to maintain, as it can be swept, vacuumed, or mopped with minimal effort. Grout lines, however, may require periodic deep cleaning or sealing to prevent discoloration or mold buildup.
• Aesthetics: Tile comes in a wide variety of styles, colors, and patterns, giving you endless design options. You can create everything from classic to contemporary looks with tile, and it can even mimic natural materials like wood and stone.
• Cost: While the initial cost of porcelain or ceramic tile can be higher than some other flooring types, its durability and low maintenance make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.

3. Hardwood Flooring

Hardwood flooring brings timeless elegance and natural beauty to any space, making it a highly sought-after choice for homeowners. While it’s durable enough for high-traffic areas, it does require a bit more maintenance than some other options.

• Durability: Solid hardwood can handle heavy foot traffic if properly maintained. However, it is more susceptible to scratches and dents, particularly in homes with pets or children. Engineered hardwood, which consists of a solid wood veneer over a plywood base, offers a bit more durability and is less prone to moisture-related issues.
• Maintenance: Hardwood floors need regular sweeping and occasional mopping with a damp cloth. You may need to refinish hardwood floors every few years to restore their appearance and address surface damage like scratches or fading.
• Aesthetics: Hardwood floors are unmatched in terms of natural beauty and warmth. They come in a wide range of wood species, colors, and finishes, allowing for flexibility in design. Hardwood can elevate the look of both traditional and modern spaces.
• Cost: Hardwood is more expensive than other flooring options, both in terms of upfront costs and long-term maintenance. However, it adds significant value to a home, and its timeless appeal makes it a worthwhile investment.

4. Laminate Flooring

Laminate is a cost-effective alternative to hardwood that still offers durability and style. Modern laminate flooring closely mimics the appearance of real wood or stone, giving homeowners the opportunity to achieve the look they want at a lower cost.

• Durability: Laminate flooring is constructed to withstand heavy use. It has a tough top layer that resists scratches, dents, and fading, making it suitable for high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms.
• Maintenance: Laminate floors are easy to maintain with regular sweeping or vacuuming. Spills should be cleaned up quickly to prevent damage, but overall, laminate requires less upkeep compared to hardwood.
• Aesthetics: Laminate flooring has come a long way in recent years. High-quality laminate closely resembles natural wood, stone, or tile, offering a stylish look without the high price or maintenance associated with those materials.
• Cost: Laminate flooring is a budget-friendly option that still delivers durability and a polished look, making it an excellent choice for those seeking value.

Choosing the right flooring for high-traffic areas requires a careful balance of durability, style, and maintenance. Whether you opt for luxury vinyl, tile, hardwood, or laminate, each material has its strengths that make it well-suited for busy spaces. By assessing your specific needs, budget, and design preferences, you can find the perfect flooring option that not only holds up to heavy use but also enhances the overall look and feel of your home or business. With the right flooring, your high-traffic areas can remain functional, stylish, and easy to maintain for years to come.

Summer is an ideal time to embark on interior renovation projects. With longer daylight hours and a more relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect season to update and refresh your home’s interior. Whether you’re looking to enhance your living space’s functionality, modernize your decor, or simply make your home more comfortable, there are numerous summer renovation projects to consider. Here are some exciting ideas to inspire your interior summer renovations.

1. Revamp Your Living Room

Fresh Coat of Paint

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to transform your living room is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. If you love the feeling of summer in your home year round, choose light, airy colors to brighten the space and make it feel more open. Summer hues like soft blues, greens, or warm neutrals can bring a refreshing change to your living room.

Update Furniture

Consider updating your furniture to give your living room a new look. Invest in a new sofa, add a stylish coffee table, or incorporate comfortable chairs. Opt for furniture pieces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the room’s overall appeal.

Add New Lighting

Lighting can dramatically change the ambiance of a room. Replace outdated fixtures with modern, energy-efficient options. Consider adding floor lamps, table lamps, or even installing dimmer switches to control the mood of the room. Natural light is also a great asset, so make sure your windows are clean and unobstructed.

2. Modernize Your Kitchen

Cabinet Update

If your kitchen cabinets are looking tired, consider replacing them. Cabinetry is a very important decision in the building or remodeling process. If you haven’t shopped for cabinets lately it can be very overwhelming with all of the design and finish options available since you typically don’t plan to replace your cabinets! We have taken the guesswork out of giving you the basics you need to know before shopping. Cabinets are so important because they keep you organized and they are a major design element in a room. With today’s technology, there are endless finish options and organizational options giving you the opportunity to get a product that fits your style and personality exactly- budget permitting, of course.

Upgrade Appliances

Summer is a great time to upgrade your kitchen appliances. Energy-efficient appliances not only look sleek and modern but can also help reduce your energy bills. Stainless steel appliances are a popular choice for a contemporary look.

Install a New Backsplash

A new backsplash can add a pop of color and texture to your kitchen. Choose tiles or stone that match your kitchen’s decor and are easy to clean. A stylish backsplash can become a focal point and enhance the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Browse our tile catalog for inspiration.

3. Refresh Your Bathroom

Replace Fixtures

Upgrading your bathroom fixtures can have a big impact. Consider replacing old faucets, showerheads, and towel bars with modern, water-efficient options. This not only improves the look of your bathroom but also enhances its functionality.

New Flooring

If your bathroom floor is outdated or showing signs of wear, summer is a great time to replace it. Choose durable, water-resistant materials like tile, stone or luxury vinyl. These options are available in various styles and can transform the look of your bathroom. Get started by checking out our flooring products on our website.

Add Storage Solutions

Clutter can make even the nicest bathroom feel cramped. Add storage solutions like shelves, cabinets, or vanity upgrades to keep everything organized. Stylish storage options can also serve as decor elements, enhancing the overall look of the room.

4. Transform Your Bedroom

Update Bedding and Curtains

Refreshing your bedding and curtains can instantly transform your bedroom. Choose light, breathable fabrics for summer and opt for colors and patterns that bring a sense of calm and relaxation. New curtains can also help control the amount of natural light entering the room.

Create a Feature Wall

A feature wall can add a focal point to your bedroom. Use wallpaper, paint, or even wood paneling to create a unique and stylish accent wall. This simple change can make a big impact on the overall design of the room.

Improve Closet Organization

A well-organized closet can make your bedroom feel more spacious and functional. Invest in closet organizers, shelves, and storage bins to keep everything in its place. A tidy closet can also make your daily routine more efficient. Your laundry room is another great place to organize as well.

5. Upgrade Your Home Office

Ergonomic Furniture

If you work from home, upgrading your office with ergonomic furniture is essential. Invest in a comfortable chair, a spacious desk, and accessories like a monitor stand or keyboard tray. Ergonomic furniture can improve your productivity and overall well-being.

Decorate with Plants

Adding plants to your home office can create a more pleasant and productive environment. Plants improve air quality and add a touch of nature to your workspace. Choose low-maintenance plants like succulents or spider plants for easy care.

Enhance Lighting

Proper lighting is crucial for a home office. Ensure you have a good mix of natural and artificial light. Task lighting, like a desk lamp, can help reduce eye strain and improve focus. Position your desk near a window to take advantage of natural light during the day.

Summer is the perfect time to focus on interior renovation projects that can transform your home. Whether you’re updating your living room, modernizing your kitchen, refreshing your bathroom, transforming your bedroom, or upgrading your home office, these projects can enhance the beauty, functionality, and comfort of your living space. By taking advantage of the longer days and warmer weather, you can make significant improvements that you’ll enjoy for years to come. Happy renovating!

We’re not talking the emotional blues when we say bedroom blues. Blue in the bedroom is a beautiful color that creates a soothing and relaxing space. Blue is typically used for boys’ rooms, but this doesn’t mean it has to be a masculine only color. The range of blue colors means that there is probably a blue out there that will work for your home decor.

This Mediterranean style bedroom uses blue accents to bring a pop of color to an otherwise neutral space. Neutral walls and link hardwood or luxury vinyl plank floor create a cool feeling in the room. Adding in rich blue accents in the throw on the bed and the curtains add a bit of energy to the room.  The energy isn’t the same as if the accents were red or orange. The cool tones of the blue color are typically thought to be more soothing than jarring.

Blue color on the walls would create bigger pops of color in this space, but it would take away from the soothing overall tone. Larger expanses of color, no matter what color, will have a bigger impact on the feeling and energy of a room. Keeping the blue accents in this room to two relatively small elements keeps the room feeling neutral.  Layering different shades of blues can also work to create a more sophisticated color palette. Pale blue on the walls combined with richer accessories could intensify the calming feeling of the color. Lots of white in the room keeps the space from feeling too blue.

You’ve read it here and on other design blogs. You’ve probably heard it on design shows on television and seen it in shelter magazines. ‘Pop of color’ is one of the favorite terms of the design world. A pop of color on a sofa or in a room adds interest for your eye. Like texture, color can change the look and feel of an object or room.

Many people buy the big ticket items like furniture and carpet in a neutral color. Builders use beige so much as a wall and carpet color that we now call it builder’s beige.  It is fine to keep these things neutral in color, but that doesn’t mean the entire room or home must be shades of builder beige.

Pops of color are great in accessories if you have a neutral room.  How much color and where you put it are up to you to decide.  Putting color on an accent wall is a bigger statement than colorful throw pillows.  A colorful area rug will make a bigger impact than a boldly colored vase or bowl on a table.

Be bold and go for combinations of colors that contrast: yellow and teal; lavender and orange; blue and rose.  Adding in groups of colorful accessories will have more impact than a single object. A pop of color can mean that the same color is carried throughout the room from the rug, to the curtains, to objects on a shelf. Pops of color can bring your attention to an architectural detail or piece of furniture.

Now that you’ve taken care of flooring and walls in our last post, it’s time to consider furniture. In an office, the right furniture makes a difference in your comfort, particularly when you spend hours in front of a computer. Basic tools of ergonomics, the science of making sure your workspace works well for you, can help provide some insights as you make your furnishing decisions.

The best place to start is your chair. Try many before deciding. The minimum goals include one that adjusts to allow you to keep your feet flat on the floor when you’re working. Also, make sure that the seat is not too deep.  If you sit back in the chair without having your knees touch the front edge of the seat, the chair seat is too big for you.

When you’re setting up your computer, make sure that both the keyboard and the mouse are the same height as your elbows. Consider a keyboard drawer if your desk is too high. Set your monitor so that the top edge is about eye level. Task lighting should be even, and shouldn’t end up creating a glare on your monitor. 

Don’t forget the rug! Area rugs can take a room full of furniture and bring it together to create the warmth you didn’t even realize you were missing!

The final step is storage. Many offices and residential furniture stores have a good variety of file cabinets and bookshelves that work well from a professional perspective while still looking appealing. Take your time and select only the pieces you need right now. You can always buy more later, and it’s nice to have extra space in an office. All set? OK, now get to work!

Are you ready to convert a room to a home office but not sure where to start? Taking a minute to plan your space allows you to create an environment that combines the best of commercial space and a residential environment. Let’s talk flooring! LVP and laminate floors provide one of the best options for a home office. Top-quality LVP and laminates look much like traditional wood floors, but with the stamina to handle the depredations of wheeled office chairs. If you prefer carpet or hardwood, be sure to pick up a mat for under the chair. Plastic mats can be found at any office supply store or one of the new bamboo mats available in a number of places online. Home office walls give you the opportunity to bring in a color you love that wasn’t a fit with any other space in your home. Sky blue sets a tone of relaxation, or maybe a peach works for you to echo the orange of energy. Use this space on your walls to inspire you or motivate you. Do you need a bulletin board? How about spray painting one in a bright tone that coordinates with your walls? Most office furniture is pretty neutral, so take advantage of this chance to bring in color. Finish up with art that makes you happy. Do you have any photos that remind you of your dreams and goals? Would a landscape draw you in when you need to escape from your work for a moment? How about a reproduction of the work of an artist that you find inspiring? Touches such as these make your office a personal and inviting place to work. Show us your home office photos on our Facebook page! https://www.facebook.com/carpetsnmorelv

Interior design is a coordinate plan with clear guidelines in place to help enhance a home’s aesthetics and functionality. Plus, there are hundreds of styles that we can use to help create our space. Many interior design styles have come and went while we see interior design evolve over time, just like fashion and beauty. Some styles have indeed survived the test of time where others come and go. Many bold and contemporary designs seem to be much shorter-lived than safe and neutral designs. Typically, this is because neutrals do not make such bold statements where other colors can be very influential. Yet, when new bold design themes do come about, they usually change the perspective entirely and can revamp the next generation of design.

During the 1980s, Italian designer Ettore Sottsass and his design team created a daring and novel design theme that would break all the rules of the current design times. This design was referred to as Memphis design, which was named due to the famous Bob Dylan song “Stuck in Memphis.”

What Is Memphis Design?

Memphis design is nothing short of abstract. It is probably the easiest design to recognize because of how whimsical and unique it is. During the 1940s, Mid-Century Modern took the forefront of many designs. It revolutionized architecture and home designs throughout the United States. However, having too much of a good thing can soon make it overused. Since Mid-Century Modern was a very minimalistic and neutral color palette, it had constructed rules which help create and make the atmosphere. During the 1980s, Sottsass and his team decided to make something untraditional or “radical, funny, and outrageous” as they put it. They created the rule-breaking, whimsical, pop art, and colorful Memphis design.

The Return of Memphis Design

Likewise, we have seen neutral color themes for the last several years. For instance, many rooms have been painted gray, beige, and white, and as children grew up with this color palette, they began to want more color. However, those children are adults and homeowners today, and we notice that generation X loves their colors. They are adding colors more than ever into their homes and apartments. So, we slowly see the return of rule-breaking colors and patterns to create an artsier and maximalism-styled home.

How to Master This Whimsical Style

The color palette is completely open but thrives off bold, neon, and pastel colors and a lot of them! Many rooms will have more than a dozen bold colors incorporated in their design. Plus, this style has unique and contemporary geometrical shapes to construct furniture and patterns. It also uses a ton of patterns where most designs stick to one or two.

What do you think of this crazy design? Is it refreshing to see colors back into homes, or is this design too much? We would love to get your opinion below in the comment section.

When designing your space, you have the freedom to add whatever décor, paint colors, furniture, and style you want. Without guidance, the overall look can become a chaotic mess; therefore, it is important to have a structure to your design. You want your home to flow and your design theme to agree with itself. Fortunately, there are several interior design themes homeowners and businesses return to for there general concepts and styling, which look great when replicated. One of these design themes is Scandinavian. You may know this styling more as the “Ikea” design styling. Scandinavian design is an excellent design with sleek lines, a clean atmosphere, and a minimalistic approach. So if you are looking to master this style in your own home, here are several key factors that contribute to this styling:

Color Palette

As soon as you see a Scandinavian design, you will quickly notice the very muted and neutral color palette. Typically, the designs are made from whites, greys, blacks, and beiges, yet some very pastel colors can trickle into the design as well. These muted colors allow light to travel more freely in the space and open up the atmosphere.

Woods

With the neutral color palette, many light-colored kinds of wood are included in the designs. From hardwood flooring to furniture designs, wood is essential to completing this styling. Look for light woods like beech, pine, and ash. You will also notice that authentic Scandinavian design never uses wall-to-wall carpet. Instead, consider adding a comfortable rug to the room for added comfort.

Greenery and Natural Lighting

A dull color palette would feel dead without the proper accommodation of greenery and natural lighting. To master Scandinavian design, make sure you allow natural lighting to flow into your space as much as possible. You can also flourish your room with plant life to help spruce up and revitalize the area.

Minimalism

This design style features sleek lines and a very minimalistic approach. The light color palette and natural elements help open up the environment. Even art work is considered to be very minimalistic in these design themes. Remember, less can be more in many design situations. Do not over-clutter your space.

Cozy Textiles

The last thing that brings this design full-circle is the attention to cozy textiles. The sleek lines, hard cut furniture, wood, and grey atmosphere can quickly drain its comfort. However, Scandinavian design has a solution for this. This design commonly indulges in cozy textiles, warm throw blankets, fun pillows, and great rugs. Do not forget to add your space of comfort to these areas to help complete your design.

All in all, Scandinavian design is highly praised for its simplicity and attention to detail. What do you think of this design style? Would you use it in your own home? Let us know your thoughts below in the comment section, and for more insight on designs, make sure to subscribe!

Perhaps the best part of having your own space has to be the freedom to decorate it as your heart desires. So if you are searching for a way to transform a space and inspire your guests, it is time to consider some wallpaper treatments. When transforming a space using wall treatments, it is essential to think beyond paint and wallpaper. In fact, putting together the perfect design requires creativity. Luckily, there are so many wall treatment options. Today, we are going to explore four creative options. Let’s take a look!

Damask Wall Stencils

Damask wall stencils are a form of textile design that can have a fabric-like effect on the walls. In fact, damask stencils are a great way to cover large areas while creating a bold effect. These stencils are a better option than wallpaper because you can paint the stencils in any color you want, which allows you to match your walls with your furniture. You can even create a modern and dramatic look without the help of a professional. In fact, damask wall stencils are so easy to use that even beginners can immediately begin dressing their walls with them.

Wood Veneer Wall Covering

There is no better way to add warmth to your home than with rustic feel of wood. From simple grains of wood to exotic patterns, there are a plethora of real wood wall coverings. Plus, wood veneer wallpaper is made from super-thin slices of wood that are attached to a paper backing, which makes it an easy way to add depth to a room. Plus, it is flexible and can be installed on curved surfaces.

Metallic Glaze

If you are set on creating a really bold look, a metallic glaze is a perfect solution. This look is an ultra-modern design that simulates the appearance of brushed metal. Silver, gold, and bronze are some popular metallic glaze looks that homeowners are using to enhance the interiors.

Photo Display

If you are a renter or searching for an easy way to enhance your walls without launching an evasive project, you can try creating a photo display wall. Spice things up by getting super creative with the picture frames you use. You can put photos in a jar to create panoramic effects or on string lights to add emphasis. In fact, there are so many ways you can arrange your photos and wall accessories to create a chic look.

Do you have any wall treatment ideas that we did not list? If so, we would love to hear your ideas below in the comment section.