Jody Minns's Stories: 2020

Thursday, December 31, 2020

9 of the Bestselling Home Products of 2020 That You Need To Buy Right Now

Perhaps your Christmas haul was missing a few choice items this year. Or maybe you just want to treat yourself in the final throes of 2020 (that in and of itself is worth a celebration, right?). Either way, we think you deserve to buy yourself a little something special right now.

That’s why we took it upon ourselves to scour though the “bestseller” lists from all of our favorite online stores and bring you this roundup of the most popular home products of the year—plus the details on where to get them.

If you’re ready to put those holiday gift cards to good use, keep scrolling, because these bestsellers deserve to make an appearance in your home.

1. Mini waffle maker

2020 home products — Dash mini waffle machine
Amazon

Waffle makers aren’t just the magic stuff of diners and food trucks. They’re also a hugely trending kitchen item, and one that ranked high on many wish lists this season.

“This little nugget has been a hit all year, due to its single serving-sized portions,” says Michelle Harrison-McAllister of Michelle Harrison Design.

“This waffle maker allows you to customize the ingredients for each family member, for a fun and interactive twist. With many people continuing to work from home, there’s no better way to start your day than with a hot breakfast. I’ll be taking the waffle maker into 2021 with me.”

Shop this adorable Dash DMW100WP mini waffle machine ($25) on Amazon.

2. Smart speaker

Chances are, if you don’t own one of these smart speakers yet, it’s probably been in your mental shopping cart for a while. It was one of the bestselling home products of 2020, and now might be the perfect time to get one (or a few) for your home.

“As we continue to work from home in 2021, it might be time to give your home office the upgrade it deserves. This small yet mighty device is the perfect size for your nightstand or desk,” says Harrison-McAllister. “Set up reminders throughout the day or simply add some ambiance with music.”

Get a smarter setup for your home with this Echo Dot smart speaker ($40) from Amazon.

3. Home-office chair

While working from the couch seemed like a comfy idea at first, your back probably has told you differently by now. That’s why this comfy, low-key office chair was a bestseller this year.

“This year, we all began to understand how important your desk task chair is for overall health and well-being, including backaches and arm fatigue,” says Harrison-McAllister. “As many of us continue to work from home into the new year, splurging on a desk chair will be so important for comfort.”

Upgrade your home’s ergonomics with one of these Urban Shop swivel mesh office chairs ($40) from Walmart.

4. Milk frother

We all spent more time this year in the kitchen trying to learn how to make our restaurant favorites. But if it’s quality coffee you were missing, look no farther than one of these bestselling milk frothers.

“I’m obsessed with milk frothers—they’re one of those gadgets every kitchen needs,” says Deanne Goodman, a consumer shopping expert at Unicorn Tribe.

“They’re very affordable and make your drinks taste so much better! I use them for hot chocolate, and it’s a game changer. You can froth your morning smoothies, coffee, and more.”

Bring your barista skills to new levels with this Zulay original milk frother ($20) from Amazon.

5. Electric air fryer

As you make your list of kitchen must-haves, you won’t want to miss out on this year’s best-selling electric air fryer. These handy little machines might not sound like much, but trust us when we say they’re the answer to all of your crispy cravings.

“Let’s face it, we all love fried food, but not what it does to our waistline,” says Harrison-McAllister. “Plus, the cleaning that follows preparing fried foods is exhausting. This air fryer became a lifesaver for all of those reasons, allowing us to keep eating the foods we love, while shaving off some calories and cleanup.”

Equip your kitchen with unlimited savory treats with this GoWISE electric air fryer ($190) from Wayfair.

6. Robot vacuum

We swear you might start liking your robot vacuum as much as any other member of the family (this writer has even named hers, and decorated it with googly eyes).

“We’re all so tired of cleaning, and most of us don’t have cleaning personnel to help out,” says the designer Alice Benjamin, of Alice Benjamin Interiors. “Once you have a robot vacuum, you’ll wonder why you didn’t have one before!”

Give yourself the gift of clean floors (no matter how much your dog sheds) with this bestselling Lefant robot vacuum cleaner ($160) from Amazon.

7. Linen cabinet

Forget minimalism—when it comes to toilet paper, cleaning products, or even just your favorite soap, we’re all guilty of stocking up just a little too much during this never-ending pandemic. But of course we need somewhere to put all those staples.

“Finally, we realize the need to organize every nook and cranny of the house,” says Benjamin. “A linen cabinet like this one becomes a savior to those who need a little more space and calm.”

Whether it’s too many towels, bathroom products, or all of the above and more, this favorite Jesse linen cabinet ($430) from Wayfair is sure to help.

8. Storage basket set

If all-around storage is what you need more of in your home, a set of these chic and popular storage baskets might be just the thing.

“Storage basket sets never go out of style,” says Harrison-McAllister. “They can house everything from toilet paper and towels to linens and toys. Not only are these a good investment, but they can also add sanity to your life and design aesthetic.”

Get your Timeless fabric three-piece basket set ($233) from Wayfair.

9. Patio heater

Winter promises to keep us stuffed indoors for another few months, unless of course you make like these smart shoppers, and get yourself a patio heater.

“Patio heaters are such a fun way to sit outside, whether it be during the morning with a cup of coffee, or in the evening with a glass of wine,” says Harrison-McAllister.

“These used to be such a splurge item for homes, but we realize now how beneficial they are to stay cozy outdoors,” she adds. “Being outdoors is something that will continue to be part of our lives in 2021 and will allow us to see a friend or family member in a safer environment. Plus, being with Mother Nature is always in style.”

Make your outdoor social distancing possible this winter with one of these Hampton Bay stainless-steel patio heaters ($149) from Home Depot.

The post 9 of the Bestselling Home Products of 2020 That You Need To Buy Right Now appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

How To Design Around Curved Walls, Odd Angles, or Other Tricky Spots in Your Home

Most home design advice applies only to commonplace rectangular rooms. Yet homeowners who have odd nooks, curvy walls, or other funny angles in their floor plan might be baffled by what to do, or put, in that space.

Fortunately, there’s some good news: You don’t have to hide these odd areas. Highlighting their quirkiness is actually recommended, says Ana Cummings of the eponymous design firm.

“Make your oddly shaped space look intentional, rather than try to cover it up,” adds Drew Henry of Design Dudes. But doing so, you’ll infuse your room with personality and energy, which is much more than any ol’ boxy shape can offer.

Here’s some advice to help you design looks that’ll work in spots with unusual angles.

Accent with wallpaper

Photo by Houzz

An angled cutout under a dormer or skylight is the perfect candidate for a bright color pop.

“You can also paint it like an accent wall, add wood trim around it, or hang fun wallpaper here,” says Henry.

Small spots like this are ideal for using up that last bit on a roll you’ve got stashed in the closet.

Dine in the round

Photo by DD Ford Construction

Curvy walls are cozy, which is a good vibe to channel in a dining room.

“A round room would be a cool space for dining, so shop for a proportionally sized table, and then accent the design with a round chandelier,” suggests Henry.

Curve-backed sofas are also a fine choice against round walls, and circular rooms can work as music spaces, with a baby grand smack in the middle.

“If you have a round bedroom, I’d either go with a traditional bed enhanced with a curved headboard or a round bed—or better yet, a large custom-upholstered headboard wall,” says Amy Bly of Great Impressions Home Staging and Interiors.

Install a book nook

Photo by Cummings Architects

An odd pocket of space with its own window can become a dreamy reading corner, says Henry—and all you really need are a few shelves and a soft seat. If you want to do it yourself, installing these accessories is a fun project, though others may rely on custom millwork and a made-to-order cushion.

Nooks like these can also be transformed into smart storage, a dry bar, or a place to display art or sculpture, says Cummings.

Choose small-scale pieces

Photo by Return on Design – Because Aesthetics Sell

When it comes to furniture placement here, Henry recommends pieces that are on the petite side because they offer more flexibility for fitting in irregular spaces.

“For instance, instead of a sectional for an odd living room, you may want to look for a love seat and a few lounge chairs,” he says.

As for layout advice, group furniture in a way that’ll facilitate conversation or over an area rug, if possible, and direct attention toward a focal point such as the TV or fireplace.

“This way, you’ll re-create a traditionally styled room without calling attention to an odd corner,” says Cummings.

Create a home office

Photo by 8Foot6

A triangular space under a set of stairs can stand in for a homework station with the addition of a simple flat surface and a chair. Or designate this spot for wrapping presents or a hobby like beading or scrapbooking.

Even out with furniture

Photo by Kelly Rogers Interiors

Bly likes to even out odd bumps or cutouts in a room to make them useful and less obvious.

“Try putting a tall chest or dresser in the nook, or fill it with a bench and a large piece of art or a chair and side table combination,” she says.

A set of drawers or small chest can fit snugly, and it creates a line that seems to sit flush to the wall.

Trick the eye with mirrors

Photo by Marcye Philbrook

Mirrors add light, depth, and beauty to a room—and they can be a lifesaver in a spot with funny angles. Mirrors can make an area with odd features look larger, and they can help create the illusion of symmetry.

Make artwork pop

Photo by Cornerstone Architects

Use large artwork, wall paneling, or a mural to your advantage in rooms with quirky features.

“These options can take your eye away from the asymmetry of a space and soften an oddly shaped room,” says Cummings.

You can also work around triangular spaces with strategically placed pieces.

“In this case, I’d downplay the pointy end of the room by placing furniture or two chairs ‘in’ from the point to elongate it,” says Bly.

The post How To Design Around Curved Walls, Odd Angles, or Other Tricky Spots in Your Home appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

Wednesday, December 30, 2020

‘Fixer to Fabulous’ Reveals Where a Home Office Could Be Hiding in Your Home

Jenny and Dave Marrs of “Fixer to Fabulous” are always busy making over other people’s homes, but in the latest episode, they get personal—turning their efforts toward renovating their own rental property.

In the Season 2 episode “Boring Turns Into Boho-Chic,” Dave and Jenny learn that their friends J’Aaron Merchant and Jasmine Hudson are moving from New Jersey back to northwest Arkansas. The Marrses decide to fix up their rental property so Hudson and Merchant can move in.

The problem: This rental needs a lot of work, and with only $95,000 and four weeks to finish the project, it’s going to take a ton of clever solutions to get this home fixed up in time.

To make things worse, Jenny and Dave run into issues when they have to decide whether to renovate the house to their renters’ boho tastes (in the hope of encouraging them to stay for a long time) or to give it a more classic look to try to appeal to other renters in the future.

Read on to learn how the Marrses renovate their rental property, and learn how to create a great space for any guest, no matter how long or short their stay.

No cash for real terrazzo? Make your own

The Marrses are determined to polish up the first impression of this home, so they refresh the exterior with white paint and new windows.

These improvements make the house look fantastic, but when it’s time to work on the front walkway, they aren’t sure what to do. Jenny wants to install a terrazzo walkway, but knows they don’t have the budget for such a pricey material.

So they decide to craft their own makeshift terrazzo out of spare pieces of marble.

“We’re gonna take this marble, break it into teeny little pieces, then put it in concrete to create terrazzo steps,” Jenny says.

The terrazzo look-alike has tons of character and gives a unique look to the front of the house.

Lose the closet to make room for a bar

This bar area is a fun and funky way to be welcomed home.
HGTV

Jenny knows that this home’s entrance is disappointing. The front door opens right into a small coat closet—and while a closet may be functional, it doesn’t give guests that “Wow!” factor.

Instead, she comes up with an idea to turn this closet into an arched minibar area where they can display pretty drinkware on open shelving, while a cabinet below provides useful storage.

“It’s a built-in that’s functional and really pretty,” she says.

Dave builds the bar area, and when it’s finished, it looks amazing. The wood shelves look perfect, and the beautiful blue-green cabinet really makes the feature stand out.

With a rental, it’s OK to take small risks for the sake of style

Jenny wants to give this house a boho-chic look, starting with the fireplace.

“Imagine if the tile had a little bit of these blush tones in it,” she suggests.

Right away, Dave disapproves, objecting that it’s too risky. He feels the design should be a little safer, to ensure that future renters will enjoy the look as well.

Still, Jenny decides to go for the blush tile, which is installed from floor to ceiling over the fireplace.

In the end, it looks great—the look is definitely boho and definitely feminine, but it’s not so wild that a future renter wouldn’t want to live in this space.

Try some flashy fabric at the breakfast bar

This boho kitchen table is a great addition to the kitchen.
HGTV

Jenny and Dave redo the kitchen with fun colors and a fresh, youthful feel, so when it comes time to design a breakfast table, they want the style to match. Jenny decides to add a fun, flashy fabric to give the space some sizzle.

“I want this dining nook to be a little bit different,” Jenny says. “I want the bench to have a cushion, and then I have a back bolster cushion as well.”

She chooses a blush material for the bolster pillow and a bolder, black-and-white pattern for the seat. It’s a great combo that makes this dining nook stand out.

Repurpose a garage as a workspace by adding a glass door

Jenny knows that Hudson and Merchant both need workspaces at home. While they’re able to turn the third bedroom into an office for Merchant, they also need an art studio for Hudson.

So, Jenny gets an idea to turn the garage into a studio. It’s an easy swap, as long as she can change one feature: the garage door.

“We’re going to replace this garage door,” Jenny says, looking at the old, worn-out door. “Instead of replacing it with just a normal garage door, what if we replace it with a glass garage door, so that it lets in natural light and this becomes her studio?”

While a glass garage door can be expensive, Jenny and Dave spring for the update and are able to give Hudson a stunning studio.

It’s the perfect solution for anyone who needs a home office but who has assumed that the garage would be a no-go because of the lack of light.

The post ‘Fixer to Fabulous’ Reveals Where a Home Office Could Be Hiding in Your Home appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

Namaste at Home: Yoga Props You Already Have in Your House

This year, the pandemic forced the closure of gyms and exercise studios all around the country, and workout enthusiasts were forced to embrace sweating from home. Some regular gymgoers took the time to embrace yoga at home and vowed to carve out a practice space.

While yoga doesn’t have a high barrier to entry, some equipment is required. However, doing Vinyasa flows in your living room doesn’t necessarily mean you have to buy a bunch of fancy props.

“American culture says in order to do something you have to buy stuff,” says Annie Melchior, an Iyengar-certified yoga teacher and director of the yoga program in the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s dance department.

“There are things you can grab right around your home that are actually more conducive. This is another mantra of the pandemic: Look around and see what you already have, and be grateful for it.”

Yoga is all about customizing to you—and purchasing products made for the masses might not suit you. Before placing an order on Amazon, try sourcing the following yoga props from your home.

No mat, no problem

“If you don’t have a sticky mat, just find a floor surface that will support you,” says Melchior. Hardwood floors are ideal because your feet stick, as opposed to slipping.

“Carpeting can sometimes be slick,” she says. Push aside your area rug and start your asanas.

When you don’t have yoga blocks, try…

… a stack of books

While store-bought yoga blocks come in only one height and width, a stack of books can be customized to your liking. Just be sure to reach for hardbacks, not paperbacks, so you don’t strain your neck, shoulders, or wrist while in triangle pose.

“Tie them together or secure rubber bands around them to ensure stability,” says Amanda Webster, a certified yoga teacher with clients in Los Angeles and New York City.

… jars from the pantry

Along those lines, Tracy Hayes, who taught yoga over Zoom to Major League Baseball players (including the Baltimore Orioles) this year, likes using jars of coconut oil, peanut butter, or spaghetti sauce as yoga blocks.

“A sturdier jar can be used in balancing poses like half-moon or for some thoracic mobility in a lunge twist,” says Hayes.

… small cardboard boxes

And don’t recycle all of your cardboard boxes just yet.

“The smaller ones work really well as blocks,” says Hayes. “Just remember to retape the box closed so it doesn’t collapse on you. These are great for placing between the knees to help stabilize the hips and pelvis for engaging the adductors in deep-core work.”

When you don’t have bolsters, try…

… towels or blankets

Meditation and yoga practices sometimes require the use of bolsters, which are firm, rectangular pillows that support your body while you hold poses.

“You can make a bolster out of rolled-up blankets,” says Melchior. “If you don’t have blankets, use towels. They are very pliable, and you can fold them.”

To keep them from losing their shape, secure the ends and the center with rubber bands or hair ties.

… cushions and pillows

“Couch pillows stacked on top of each other make a great bolster,” says physical therapist and Iyengar instructor Danielle Berres, who created her own line of yoga props sold online and in St. Paul, MN.

You can also use a few throw pillows to support your body.

“Pillows are great if you’re in a seated forward fold and have any lower back issues, because sitting on a pillow tilts your pelvis forward in a safer position,” says Emma Sothern, a Vinyasa teacher in Hoi An, Vietnam.

“You can also use them under one hip in pigeon pose to keep your hips level, or between your knees in supine twist to fully relax. I really like using a pillow under the knees in savasana (final relaxation pose) to ease tension in my back.”

When you don’t have yoga straps, try…

… belts or scarves

Yoga straps typically made of woven canvas or nylon are used to deepen a stretch and get a fuller range of motion. Make your own yoga strap with a removable belt from a bathrobe or a long scarf, says Melchior. Just make sure the material you use is durable enough not to rip.

… electronics chargers

“Not everyone has a necktie or scarf lying around, but nowadays everyone—even my grandmother—has a phone or laptop charging cord lying around,” says Hayes.

“The charging cord can be used to give the legs a bit of a stretch while lying on your back by hooking the cord around your foot to gently support the stretch of your leg in the air,” she says.

The post Namaste at Home: Yoga Props You Already Have in Your House appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

Tuesday, December 29, 2020

The Property Brothers Reveal 5 Simple Tricks To Make Your Yard Feel Luxe

The “Property Brothers” stars know that the coronavirus pandemic has made backyards a premium real estate feature. And, on the latest episode of “Celebrity IOU,” they reveal some prime ways to deck it out.

In the season 2 episode “Justin Hartley’s Bombshell,” actor Justin Hartley enlists Drew and Jonathan Scott to help his friend Mat upgrade his backyard. Mat and his family moved into their Los Angeles house just a year and a half ago, and they spent all of their savings renovating the interior.

While staying home in 2020 in a newly updated house may sound great, this family was still stuck with a run-down backyard and a broken pool. Now, Drew and Jonathan have just three weeks to fix up this outdoor space and make it match the modern look of the house.

See how the Scott brothers give this yard everything it needs to ride out the pandemic—which might inspire a few changes in your own backyard, too.

1. Add indoor luxury to your yard with an outdoor kitchen and bar

Drew and Jonathan know, from the beginning, that they want to give this yard an outdoor kitchen with a grill, fridge, pizza oven, and porcelain counter. But halfway through the project, Hartley requests the extension of the porcelain counter to include a bar.

“Mat hasn’t been able to get around to installing a bar inside, so Justin wants to give him one outside,” Jonathan says. “This stunning porcelain-top bar will not only be a focal feature, but the perfect spot for Justin and Mat to sip on their favorite spirits.”

When Hartley wanted to add a bar area, the Scott brothers delivered!
HGTV

When the bar is finished, it looks beautiful. Plus, with this extra porcelain bar surface to be used as an eating area or an extra food prep space, this outdoor kitchen is as functional as an indoor kitchen.

2. A pergola provides shade for outdoor dining

With a kitchen and bar ready to go, the brothers know this backyard will need a great dining area. And while setting up a table and chairs is easy enough, Drew and Jonathan realize that the hardest part of outdoor dining in California is planning for the sun.

This backyard will get warm, especially during the summer, so the Scott brothers add a pergola to the dining space.

While any shade will undoubtedly be appreciated in this space, this pergola comes with Hartley’s touch of star quality because the slats up top can be electronically shifted to let in a little bit of sun (or none at all). It’s a great upgrade that makes this beautiful yard feel ultraluxe.

3. Choose a colorful waterline tile for a modern pool

One of the most important things on Hartley’s list is to fix up the broken pool. Not only does it need to work so Mat and his family can finally go swimming, but it also needs a serious style update.

So, while the Scott brothers handle getting this pool up and running, it’s up to Hartley to help with the style.

Hartley says that Mat likes a modern look, but he doesn’t want to make the backyard feel too stark. So when it’s time to pick out a waterline tile, Hartley chooses a chic blue tile that looks both contemporary and classic.

“It’s cool, like a modern but vintage kind of look,” Hartley says. “It looks like it’s been there for a while.”

4. Set the mood with a dark fire feature

With a beautiful outdoor kitchen and an updated pool, Hartley knows that the only thing this backyard is missing is a spot to hang out and relax. So the brothers design a private fire pit area where Mat and his wife can enjoy quiet nights outside.

The design is great, but when it comes time to choose materials, the pressure is on for Hartley. He likes the idea of using a dark stone to give the space a modern, romantic feel.

“That’s probably something you’re going to use at night,” Hartley says of the fire feature. “Maybe he and his wife want to have a romantic evening, maybe come out here and tell each other how much they love each other. So I don’t know, I’m thinking something darker.”

Hartley goes with his gut and chooses the dark option for the fire feature. It’s a great choice; plus, with light-colored rocks on the ground around it, the dark color really stands out. In the end, this extra sitting space ends up being a standout in this beautiful new yard.

5. Finish the yard with some great foliage

There are many beautiful features in this backyard, but Drew and Jonathan know that they need just one more thing to make this space feel lush: greenery.

“Most people think a water feature in a backyard softens the hard lines of an outdoor design,” Jonathan says, “but the greenery is really what balances the hardscapes, making it feel like an oasis.”

Drew and Jonathan go shopping at a nearby tree nursery, choosing practical plants like lemon and lime trees that Mat can use at the bar, mesquites to provide some shade, as well as plenty of grasses and shrubs.

Of course, the brothers want to find plants that are beautiful but also easy to care for.

“Justin wants this backyard to be a much-needed escape for Mat to maximize time with family, so we want to choose greenery that will minimize watering and yardwork,” Drew says.

At the end of the three weeks, Drew, Jonathan, and Hartley are able to present Mat and his family with a stunning backyard. Mat is shocked to see how much the space has changed, and his wife and two daughters are thrilled to find a luxurious space to hang out together. It looks like Hartley’s project was a big success!

The post The Property Brothers Reveal 5 Simple Tricks To Make Your Yard Feel Luxe appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

Monday, December 28, 2020

These Aren’t Your Granny’s Stencils! Modern Stenciling Ideas You’ll Adore

When you think of wall stencils, do you picture curlicue flowers in delicate, dusty shades, decorating the walls of a quaint bed-and-breakfast, or maybe your great aunt’s hallway?

Despite their old-fashioned rap, stencils are making a comeback, thanks to more modern designs and the fact that stenciling is a budget-friendly room refresh that anyone can do.

“Stencils appeal to many people now because folks are eager to make their home their own, but sometimes they’re limited by budgets or even fear—hanging wallpaper is a commitment, financially and aesthetically, and some people are scared to go there,” explains Emma Carole Paradis of Impeccable Nest Interior Design.

Stenciling is also becoming popular due to the rising trend of people putting their own personal stamp on their possessions.

“People are used to personalizing so many aspects of their lives, like their phones and electronics, and they’re looking for new ways to customize their living spaces, too,” points out Dee Schlotter, senior color marketing manager at PPG paint brand.

And stencils are an inexpensive way to try a trend on your walls or furniture.

“It’s low-cost, high-impact, supereasy to do and completely satisfying,” says Paradis.

Choose from any style and color under the sun, and apply them anywhere you need a lift. For some help, check out these nifty new stencil ideas below.

Stencil an accent wall

Photo by Janna Makaeva/Cutting Edge Stencils

Depending on the size of your wall, adding a stenciled design is a relatively easy DIY project to tackle, and you can personalize a private space (like the bedroom) with a small investment.

“The farmhouse style in particular lends itself well to stenciled quotes, stripes, or other patterns,” says Schlotter.

Stencil a kid’s room

Photo by designPOST interiors

Paradis and her business partner Kimberly Carole love the idea of stencils as wallpaper, especially very large ones that are 36 inches in size.

“A leopard-print stencil in a kid’s room would be so great, and if you’re unsure about it, it’s only paint—you can redo it,” she says.

Stencil your floor

Photo by Royal Design Studio Stencils

Think outside the box, and apply your stencils to floors.

“We’ve taken a stencil and used it to cover up a tile floor, and it totally changed the look of the room,” explains Paradis.

Stencils can also stand in for carpet in rooms where you need some pattern but don’t want to vacuum, such as a screened porch or sunroom.

Stencil a door

Photo by Allison Cosmos

Your front door is another unusual spot for a stencil design. (Just use exterior-grade paint and finishes so your look adheres well and stands up to the elements.) Pick a fun pattern or stencil your house number.

“Doors look particularly good with a statement color, and stenciling is another way to customize your home’s exterior,” says Schlotter.

Stencil furniture

Photo by Royal Design Studio Stencils

If you’re a thrifter who loves to upcycle, stencils might just be your best friend.

Rehab an old table or dresser with a stencil pattern, say the pros. Focus on the front of the piece or stencil the inner sides of the drawers for a mini surprise each time they’re pulled out.

Throw pillows, headboards, roller shades, and plain white lampshades can also be vastly improved with a stenciled pattern (or try your monogram).

Stencil in stripes

Photo by Fabulous Finishes Inc

Worried your stencils will come across as old-fashioned? Add some classic stripes to your wall design.

“Stripes create a bold graphic that helps the space feel less dated—gone are the days of a stenciled border with a small flower,” says Paradis.

Stencil letters

Photo by Bloom Your Space Organizing

Not every stencil has to be a flower or feather. Instead, consider a saying or phrase in a spot that needs a little oomph. The laundry room is the perfect place to practice stenciling, say the pros.

“This room is often overlooked, and you can go a little crazy here too,” says Paradis.

What stencil shades work best?

Photo by SISSY+MARLEY

There are no serious color rules when it comes to stenciling, but mixing too many hues into one pattern may be hard to achieve. (Each section of the stencil will need its own application.) Instead, choose a bold or dark color for the wall and then add a pattern in a lighter tone.

“Off-white and gray make a lovely combination, and pastel walls with a white stencil overlay would also be beautiful, says Schlotter.

Here’s more on how to stencil.

The post These Aren’t Your Granny’s Stencils! Modern Stenciling Ideas You’ll Adore appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com®.

Friday, December 25, 2020

10 Kids Room Wall Decor Ideas That Adults Won’t Hate

Decorating kids bedroom walls is a tough challenge—that is, if you don’t want them to outgrow that fire engine mural or “Frozen” decals anytime soon. Isn’t there anything out there more original that both parents and kids will enjoy for years to come?

Of course there is.

“Kids, by nature, are creative and imaginative, so it makes sense that their bedrooms should be just as colorful and full of life,” says Anna Shiwlall, owner of the interior design firm 27 Diamonds.

A painted mural is one way to achieve a special look, though not every homeowner will splurge for a customized jungle scene. (But if you do, it’s easy to paint over it when your kids have moved on to a new obsession.)

Instead, we’ve come up with 10 fresh wall decor ideas for your kids’ bedrooms that you may want to keep around even after they’ve left the nest.

1. Removable wallpaper

A peel-and-stick ombre mountain mural is a snap to arrange.
Amazon

These adhesive mountain panels ($27,20, Amazon) are easy on, easy off, and they’re reusable. And the calming peaks and valleys are sure to lull tough sleepers to dreamland.

Or try chalkboard removable wallpaper, which isn’t just for use in school, says Shiwlall. “Best of all, the wall art and the shelf life is totally up to your kids.”

2. Memory boards

Change up this board with pictures, ticket stubs, and other mementos.
Wayfair

A pretty fabric board or a multiple set ($28 each, Wayfair) is a nice change from paint or wallpaper. Younger kids can tuck their drawings into the ribbons, while those in grade school can use it to hold reminders and sports schedules.

3. Wall decals

A DIY decal project your kids will flip for
Amazon

Modern tots don’t really play jacks anymore, but using them in decal form ($35 for 60 pieces, Amazon) on a wall is rather genius. This cute set of line clusters and bright circles can be arranged—and rearranged—in endless ways, which will keep your kid busy and get the wall decorated, too.

4. Graphic prints

The price is right for this set of three animal faces.
Wayfair

“Select a print or piece of art that speaks to your child, adds a decorative touch, and that also has meaning—even if she picks Disney princesses,” suggests Anne Hepfer of the eponymous design firm.

You can always swap framed photos for a more age-appropriate look, but we think you’ll want to hold on to these sweet faces from the African savannah ($58 for three, Wayfair).

5. Butterflies

Arrange this set of 10 over her bed or dresser.
Pottery Barn Kids

What could be sweeter than butterflies made from soft, glittering feathers?

These cuties ($35 for 10, Pottery Barn Kids) adhere quickly with 3M stickers, and you can get different sets in pink and blue for a multicolored swarm of your own design.

6. Fabric wall panels

Customize soft cotton squares for a wall display or headboard.
Etsy

Pillow stuffing, foam board, and soft fabric are brought together in these smart padded panels ($104, Etsy) for your tot’s nursery. Install a line as a decorative border on the wall, or use some to demarcate a book nook or play space.

7. Shadowboxes

Photo by Houzz.com

Three-dimensional boxes with a color or design theme work well in kids rooms—and hands-on homeowners can easily take them on as a DIY project.

Michaels and other crafts stores sell basic white frames that you can fill and mount in just an hour.

8. Climbing wall

Turn any wall into a climbing wall.
Amazon

You don’t really want your kid to mount the TV stand or his bureau, so why not install something he’s allowed to scale instead? Reserve this pick ($30, Amazon) for older kids who have some climbing ability and lay a bunch of soft floor pillows at the base of the wall.

9. Tile wall

Photo by Birdhouse Media

A stark white room with a bright tile mosaic is a stunning way to add an accent wall to a kid’s room—and you don’t need a fireplace to put in this look. Make it even easier, and select peel-and-stick wall tile.

10. Framed record collection

Photo by Houzz.com

Your 10-year-old kid hasn’t had enough time to gather his own collection, but you can help him out by arranging one of your own that was meaningful to you as a kid.

Bonus: You get your old albums out of the basement, and he gets some cool wall decor that’s nothing like the other kids’ rooms.

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