Tag Archive for: Home Design

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Feng Shui

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Do you have issues sleeping or feeling relaxed and positive in your home? Maybe it’s time to reassess the way your surroundings influence your state of mind. I think most people can agree that an organized house makes them feel less stressed, but sometimes cleaning up isn’t enough to truly optimize the energy and flow of your space. Regardless of your views or understanding of unseen forces such as chi, feng shui can transform your home into a more positive and peaceful place to be. 

Overview 

Feng shui is a Chinese practice that aims to put someone in harmony with the space around them. The concept has been used for thousands of years in China and India, but became popularized in the United States in the 1980’s. 

Feng shui intends to invite positive chi into your home and life by directing energy flow and keeping things open. It relies upon five elements (earth, metal, water, wood, and fire) which are associated with colors and shapes that bring certain elements of balance into your space. The feng shui energy map dictates how you should implement these materials so that they exist in harmony with each other. 

How to Implement Feng Shui in Your Home

An easy way to implement feng shui in your home is by placing yourself in the command position of a room. The command position is what many people think of when they consider feng shui in the home. It is the space in the room that gives you the most authority- you should have a clear view of the entrance but not be directly in line with it, as that energy flow can be distracting. This position should set you up to welcome incoming energy, but your back should also be protected. Try to avoid having your back to empty space, instead position yourself with your back to a wall. The command position model should be especially implemented in your bedroom or office, as the positioning of the bed and desk can make a huge difference in the feel of a space. Even your living space should be considered; you do not want your back to the entryway when you are sitting on a couch. You don’t have to face yourself directly towards the entrance of every room you use, but be sure that it is in sight. If that is not possible in the layout of your home, you can always use a mirror to ensure that you can view the entry at any time! 

Your hallways are incredibly important in feng shui, as they allow energy to flow freely throughout the home. Be sure that they are not too busy or cluttered, but decorate them in such a way that they bring warmth between the rooms. 

Another simple way to implement feng shui is to make your spaces feel taller. Since this practice is all about energy, it is only natural that if your eye is drawn higher into the room, so is the energy of your space as it has more room to circulate. Feng shui is most effective in a space without clutter. Though nobody is a fan of clutter to begin with, this practice views clutter as obstacles to the energy of your home. Making these changes is all about the chi within and between rooms, so be sure to organize and put away or get rid of anything that may block its flow. 

At the end of the day, your home is your sanctuary and you should feel happy and calm when you are there. Contact me today if you have questions or would like to start the process of buying or selling a house! 

My Favorite Holiday Gift Basket Ideas

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Well, it’s official. The holiday season is upon us. From turning on holiday music and building gingerbread houses to decorating the Christmas tree and snuggling up with a nice cup of hot cocoa, there is so much to enjoy this time of year. 

One of my favorite things about the holidays is gift-giving. Nothing makes me happier than being about to surprise a friend or family member with a gift that they adore. One of my favorite things to do every day is support small businesses and shop locally. Marrying two of my favorites together makes for a memorable holiday for our loved ones and is beneficial for our communities. 

As we approach the last few weeks before Christmas, it feels like crunch time when it comes to checking off everyone on our nice list. Whether your list has grown unexpectedly or you’re slowly but surely moving through it, a great way to put together a last-minute gift is by making a curated gift basket. Themed gift baskets are a fantastic way to gift some of your favorite items while celebrating your recipient and the holiday season.

To spread some holiday cheer and make your shopping a bit easier, I thought it would be nice to share some of my favorite gift basket ideas with you. 

Explore these unique gift options by theme, and shop locally this season. 

1. Family + Children

If you have a family on your gift list, consider making them a basket filled with treats, games, and activities they can enjoy together. Grab some age-appropriate board games, locally produced snacks, and a bottle of wine for the parents to enjoy together. 

Also, consider adding some gift cards for family experiences that they can enjoy after the holiday season has passed. Here are some of our favorite family-friendly spots to consider:

  • Tastebuds is an excellent option for families who love to cook and enjoy good food together. They host cooking classes and parties for anyone two and older in Beverly. Here, you can attend mommy and me classes, kids-only classes, adult-only classes, or a private class for the entire family. A great gift option to set up a love for cooking at an early age; a great, interactive gift for the whole family. 
  • Give the gift of theatre at North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly. With show offerings suited for all family members, your gift recipients can enjoy the magic of theatre right in the heart of their town. A perfect family-friendly show to consider gifting is “A Year with Frog and Toad,” A whimsical musical performance follows two best friends through all four seasons. Filled with fun, music, and imagination, the entire family will be enchanted, making this an unforgettable memory and gift. The show takes place on 03/26/2022.
  • The perfect gift for an artsy family, Clay Dreaming Pottery Studio in Beverly offers child, teen, and family classes suited for the whole family.  Consider adding a handmade clay piece to the basket along with a gift card for them to enjoy making clay pottery themselves. Not only will they be left with the memories of a wonderful time had by all, but they will also have the pottery pieces they made to display in their home for years to come. 

2. Friends

Aside from our immediate family, girlfriends are the pillars of love, community, and trust in our lives. Often, friends become our chosen family over the years. So during the holiday season, it is essential to remind them of how much value they add to our lives. Whether you decide to make them a gift basket of their favorite staple items or simply want to give them some new and exciting gifts to pamper them and make them feel loved, these local favorites are some great options. 

  • With 4 locations throughout Eastern Massachusetts, Nails and Co. Spa is the perfect way to treat your bestie this season. From gel manicures and spa pedicures to skin care, facials, and waxing, they have a little bit of everything for the full spa experience. The perfect gift to wind down from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
  • A gift certificate to attend workout classes are a great option for the friends in your life who love to stay active. Some of my favorite spots include Fit Ritual and Inner Cycle with multiple locations throughout the North Shore. An added bonus is if you join them in trying out a new class in the New Year.
  • Everyone loves a little pampering. So why not gift a blowout at a luxe blowdry and esthetics bar in Beverly? Prette is the self-proclaimed “destination to feel your most prettiest self.” Let the gift card lead as the theme of the gift basket and include other self-love spa day items such as a new wet brush, a makeup set, a bottle of their favorite wine, an eye mask, and some local, delicious chocolate. 
  • If your friend considers herself a foodie, then Frank is the place to send her. A place that has lived the idea of farm-to-table, before it was the mainstream, Frank offers delicious, nutritious, and locally sourced menu items that are simply to die for. Offering a brunch, daytime, and nighttime menu, your friend, can enjoy everything from florentine benedict to a savory raw bar and charcuterie board. The ultimate place to sit back and indulge after a long holiday or weeknight. Pair this gift card in a basket with a bamboo cutting board, a new apron, a cheese platter set, and some decadent cheeses, and a perfectly-paired bottle of wine. 
  • Looking for unique gifts, home decor, or plants for a friend who has everything? Look no further than Roost & Company or Oak + Moss. Both offer sustainably-based paper and gift items. Grabbing items at these two shops is the ideal way to shop locally while scoring gifts that excite. 

3. Spouse

Sometimes it’s hard to shop for the ones closest to you, especially if you feel they already have everything or claim that they don’t need anything. So this year, consider putting together a fun and romantic gift basket of things you can enjoy together as a couple.

Some of my favorite options include:

4. New Homeowner

Do you have a friend or family member who recently purchased a home? One of the best gifts you can give them is a gift basket filled with fun and valuable things they can use in their new home. 

Some of my favorite new homeowner gifts include:

  • Plants from Oak + Moss with decorative and unique pots
  • Home decor items from Simply Placed
  • Snacks and wine
  • A fresh bouquet in a colorful vase
  • Soaps, candles, and lotions

 

Whoever you’re shopping for this holiday season, we encourage you to choose gift items that excite their senses and leave lasting memories for years to come. Above all, we hope that you can enjoy the season surrounded by those you love most while sharing the joy of gift-giving with all of those who are special in your life. So, from all of us, Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas! 

How to Design a Beautiful Guest Bedroom in Your Home

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One of the best things about owning your own home is sharing it with the people you love most. From family and friends to neighbors and guests, creating a place that you consider your sanctuary to host in is a beautiful thing. 

Are you one who loves to have guests over? Or maybe you’re just in the perfect location for your house to be unofficially deemed the home of the holidays. Whether you consider yourself the hostess with the mostest or like to keep it more low-key while guests visit, having an intentionally curated space in your home for guests is essential, any time of year.

No matter how you decide to decorate your spare or guest, bedroom make sure that it’s clean, comfortable, and uncluttered. The space should exude warmth for a welcoming vibe while being a place of relaxation to lay your head after a long day of travel and connection. 

Here are my top tips for designing a beautiful guest bedroom. 

1. Pick a theme.

Often, people believe that a guest room is a free-for-all space when it comes to shedding some design inspiration. Although this is true, to some extent, the theme of your guest space should match the aesthetic of the rest of your home. It should be a complimentary room to the main living spaces and not stick out like a sore thumb. A mismatch can cause it to feel too isolated or unwelcoming. 

Picking a theme is a great idea, but make sure it aligns with your full home’s design goals. Great options for themed guest rooms include natural, farmhouse, modern, hotel-chic. Whatever theme you decide on, make sure that each piece of furniture and accessories works within your theme effortlessly. 

2. Keep it cozy.

Coziness is the name of the game when it comes to designing a guest room. For your guests, whether they’re traveling from across the country or across the city, a guest room acts as an oasis space, allowing them to relax and unwind in comfort. 

Include cozy items like oversized pillows, plush blankets, and soft throw rugs. Consider going a step further by adding deluxe bathrobes and extra large towels. If possible, make the thermostat in the guest room a separate entity from the rest of your home so that your guests can choose their most comfortable setting. Finally, don’t forget staple comfort items such as books, a television, or ample lighting. 

3. Take advantage of natural accents in the room.

Many New England homes are filled with old-world charm. From natural hardwood floors to vintage fireplaces, there is a lot of beauty to be found in natural home elements. If your guest room is graced with a piece of history, don’t be afraid to show it off. Place your furnishings around the accent pieces to showcase them. Decorate mantels and shine hardwood floors. Add an oversized pillow to a bay window bench seat to instantly transform it into a reading nook. All of these small elements make the room feel personalized and worldly. 

4. Keep the clutter out.

Don’t ever treat your guest room like a storage closet. Do your best to keep clutter out at all costs, even in the guest closet. Consider this an active living space and use it as a study or relaxation room when guests are not visiting. This will allow you to recognize it as a living space instead of a storage bin. Before guests arrive, clean up any clutter throughout the area to ensure they walk into a freshly cleaned room. 

5. Don’t skimp on furniture.

Don’t leave your guest room feeling extra sparse if you have the extra space. Lack of furniture can lead to a lack of feeling cozy and comfortable. Instead, consider adding intentional elements in the space, like a desk, small dresser, and corner reading chair to make it functional without feeling cluttered. 

6. Update for each season.

When decorating for the season throughout your home, don’t forget the guest room. Decorate with fresh flowers in a vase in spring. Brighten up the space with light linens in the summer. Add a bit of fall warmth in the autumn. Bring in all that’s merry and bright in the winter months. A fun way to tie the guest room into the other rooms of your house is to include it with each seasonal change. Your guests will feel inspired and at home there with a few extra seasonal decor pieces.

7. Consider your guest list.

Your guest room is only as good as the guests who stay in it. If it’s not suited for your type of people, then it’s not going to feel comfortable for them. Know what they like, what makes them happy and comfortable, and opt to include those elements in the space. Whether it’s extra pillows, weighted blankets, or more natural light, make it a space that’s welcoming to the people you care most about while also functioning as a happy place for you too. 

8. Don’t forget to stock it with essentials.

Traveling is hard enough. Most of the time, guests forget something. Whether it’s a toothbrush, body soap, or their favorite hair dryer, stocking up on the essentials just in case helps alleviate any added stress on their plate. If you have a guest bathroom, fill it with travel-sized items that they can quickly grab during their stay with you. Think of hotel front desk offerings and go from there. Make sure the room is well-stocked with towels, blankets, pillows, a change of sheets, and maybe even a welcome basket. Guests appreciate you taking care of the small stuff. 

 

Designing a guest room shouldn’t feel like an added chore on your laundry list of to-dos for your home. Instead, make it a fun experience by choosing a design you love, finding items that make it feel extra cozy, and turning it into a home away from home for both you and your guests. Do you love the idea of a guest room, but haven’t found your dream home yet? Let us help! Contact us today to get started on your journey to homeownership- guest room included. 

Converted basement room with TV's, couch and pool table

5 Ways to Transform Your Basement or Attic Space

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Whether you’ve just purchased the home of your dreams or have been residing in your favorite spot for a while, there are always new and transformative ways to change up your living space. From switching out the seasonal decor to updating the look and feel of a room, more living space often leads to better home functionality. An added bonus? Home improvement projects are a great way to feel more at home while increasing your overall home value. 

If you’re a native New Englander or have been residing in the Northeast for a while, you’ve probably realized how prevalent basements and attics are in homes- especially those built between 1940 and 1980. 

Basements often include concrete floors, unfinished ceilings, and exposed walls. On the other hand, attics are often floor-to-ceiling exposed posts and beams, showcasing the more raw side of homebuilding. In both cases, they were probably included in the original home build to expand the home to include designated spots for storage. In areas where vast land ownership was scarce, homes could only go one of two ways to expand: up or down, hence the inclusion of a basement and attic. 

Although basements and attics are still great places to store items, like holiday decorations, gym equipment, and special memorabilia, there is so much more that can be done to transform the space into a useable and welcoming portion of your home. 

So whether you’re hoping to add on an extra bedroom, home gym, or office space, an addition to your home shouldn’t be top of mind; instead, opt to upgrade your current space by finishing your basement or attic. 

Here are my top 5 ways to transform your basement or attic space:

1. Create a functional office space.

There were a lot of changes that came with the onset of the pandemic. From changes in the way, we interact with others to a slew of updates in our daily schedule. However, one of the most notable changes for millions of people was going from a daily work commute to working from home. Whether you had the space for it or not, the workforce went completely remote. Most were working from their bedrooms while their children were attending virtual class from the dining table. Although the onset was over a year ago, many people are still working remotely indefinitely. If you’re one of them, now is the perfect time to transform your attic or basement into the office space of your dreams. 

No matter what theme you decide to go with make sure to include:

  • Ample lighting
  • A sizeable desk to accommodate for all of your office essentials
  • Organizational options to store your files and supplies
  • Seating for yourself and guests
  • Noise-cancelling insulation
  • A lockable door to close for privacy when needed
  • An accent wall to use when on video calls for client and coworker meetings

2. Add a secondary living area.

Has your family grown since your initial move? Whether you’ve welcome children or invited a family member or roommate to move in with you, sometimes a secondary living space becomes a necessity as your inner circle and needs grow. Consider finishing your attic or basement space to be an extra living area where you house things like a television, extra toys, a reading nook or a set of desks for a quiet study space. To create a cohesive flow between your current rooms and your newly finished area, try to match the style and aesthetics of your home by using colors that accentuate, furniture that complements, and flooring that seamlessly flows from one space to another. 

3. Build a wine cellar.

Who doesn’t need a wine cellar? If you consider yourself a wine connoisseur, a wine cellar renovation may be the best option for your basement. Although not a possible solution for an attic space, a wine cellar is a great place to store your favorite tastes of each season all year long. Choose an aesthetic that compliments your favorite winery and add a space for tasting or sharing drinks with others. 

4. Upgrade your storage game.

There is no shame in using your basement or attic for their intended purpose: a space for extra storage. Instead of just placing items in random bins and boxes, insulate your space, put up some drywall, and lay down interior flooring. Regulating the temperature within the area will allow you to store items safely without risk of mildew or other long-term storage damage taking place. Consider building custom in-wall storage shelving for a higher level of organization. 

 

5. Make it a game and entertainment realm.

If you don’t have a specific plan for your attic or basement, a game and entertainment area is always a viable and fun option for all ages. This type of area grows with your family and can be updated as your family’s interests change. With a plethora of options to choose from you can make the personalized space customized to your needs. Whether you opt for a movie theater space with cozy oversized chairs or a game room with pinball machines, there is so much to be done within the confines of the extra room.

Some entertaining items to consider include:

  • A pool table
  • A foosball table
  • A music space filled with your favorite instruments
  • A bar area for friend and family events
  • Old-school video game systems 
  • A reading nook
  • An arts and crafts studio

 

Having a home with a basement and attic allows you to transform your home in various ways. Whether you decide on expanding your storage space in an organized way, tapping into your gaming side, sipping from your favorite glass in a new wine cellar, adding a secondary living space or turning your spare area into a functional office space for your work-from-home needs, there are many options to choose from that can meet the needs of you and your family for years to come. 

Fall style flowers in a vase with folded clothes

My Top 5 Fall Home Decor Trends of 2021

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Fall is synonymous with cozy. So when it comes to enjoying the brisk season that brings so many people together, there may be no better time to redecorate your home with all the feels of the season. From chunky knits to warm and inviting colors, fall home decor trends play a pivotal role in defining your space to all who enter, including you. The best part? You don’t have to break the bank or complete an entire room remodel to bring in the vibes of the season. Instead, focus on a few staple fall decor trends that have taken off this year and infuse them into your home as you see fit.

Although there are hundreds of different trends and design ideas floating around for fall, I prefer to stick to the classics that make me feel warm and welcome year in and year out. 

Here are my top 5 fall home decor trends for 2021:

 

1. Chunky Knits

Whether you’re outfitting the linens on your bed or changing out the throw blankets on your living room sofas, there are so many ways to incorporate chunky knits into your fall decorating. They double as a great relaxation cover when you’re cozying up to enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate and a holiday movie on a cool fall night. Varying in options from classic neutrals to bright and vibrant multi-colored knits, you can add pizazz and comfort to any space. Think outside the box a bit with this option by adding chunky knit pillows to your outdoor seating area around the fire pit or filling an outdoor blanket bin with chunky throws to use on a cold night cuddling with your loved ones after a fun night of making s’mores together. The possibilities for this design option are quite endless. 

2. Lantern Lighting

Nothing sets the mood like lighting. From Christmas lights in the winter to flamingo-themed lights in the summer months, lighting is integral to your overall home design and decor. The perfect way to set the mood for the fall season is by using lantern lighting. The ambiance of the deeper hues against the stark and distressed lantern designs is a combination that can’t be beat. Lanterns are versatile options for both indoor and outdoor use, allowing you to outfit them with real candles or faux battery-operated options. Add a lantern to your dining table decor, on top of your tv stand, or as an accent to your front porch seating. The mood will quickly change from dark to warm and inviting.

3. Fall Leaves and Flowers

Nothing says fall quite literally like the falling leaves that hit the ground and crunch under our boots as we stroll down a sidewalk on a crisp autumn morning. So when decorating your home this season, consider adding fall leaves and flowers throughout your home. Whether faux or natural, they add a level of nature and comfort that can only be found from their beauty. When choosing flowers, pick muted and deep colors, such as browns, dark oranges, deep yellows, and maroons. My favorite place to add them? To dining tables, entry tables, and bathroom counters. The subtle touch of the outdoors brings an instant feeling of the season. 

4. Modern Farmhouse 

A trend that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon, modern farmhouse is the ideal home decor option for those looking to make a significant impact in their home this season. Whether you’re just moving into your place or hoping to change up the look of an entire room or floor of your home, modern farmhouse is an ideal and timeless option that will last long beyond the current season. Modern farmhouse can pair well with many home styles by mixing rustic chic with cozy hints of industrial elements. First, start small by changing some of your mantle, bookcase, or shelving accents with modern farmhouse options. Then, if you love the feel, go bigger and replace staple furniture pieces. 

5. Woven Baskets and Distressed Trays

Remember all the rage that the photo accent wall brought to the design industry for years? Well, it’s back for fall with a cozy twist. Instead of designing a wall around your favorite portraits, frames and paintings, consider outfitting a wall with woven baskets and trays. Bringing in intricate dimensions warms up any space while providing a visually appealing look. 

 

Although pumpkins and scarecrows are great added touches to your outdoor decor, especially with Halloween on our heels, there are various other ways to decorate your home for the season. Whatever you decide on, your goal for the season should be a home that exudes warmth, comfort, and peace. So tap into fall colors and comforts and enjoy the nostalgic season we are in. 

House Numerology 101

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When it comes to buying (or selling!) a home, numbers are everything! From the price of the home, closing costs, mileage from your preferred location, and square footage to the number of bedrooms, bathrooms and parking spaces, numbers rule. Whether you’re in the process of buying your first home or looking into upgrading your current home, numbers play a pivotal role in deciding whether a home is right for you. House numerology may be another numbers-based item you want to consider before signing on the line for your next big purchase. 

We want all the good karma when it comes to your new home, so learn more about how house numerology can help you decide if the energy and essence of a potential home is right for you… or, if the home you’re living in now fits into your soulful vibration.

 

What is numerology?

In the most basic terms, numerology is the study of numbers and their effect on your life. It has been said that numbers have a universal language that can be decoded into different levels and types of energy. The main idea is that everything in the universe is made up of certain numbers and when we break the numbers down to the core numbers we can best determine their main purpose or soul path. This is true for both living and nonliving things. 

Everyone has a life path number. You calculate this number by using the entirety of your birthday and then simplifying it to a single number that provides you with a deeper look and understanding into your soul’s purpose. For example, if your birthday was March 15, 1988, your life number would be 3 (month of birth) + 15 (day of birth) + (year broken down into single digits) 1+9+8+8 = 44. Then, take 4+4 = 8. Your life path number would be eight. 

Each life path number, from 1-9, has a specific set of personality traits and characteristics that represent each person and thing that belongs within that path number. By knowing your life path number and diving deeper into understanding it, you may learn more about yourself and the path you are on in your life. 

 

Why is house numerology, in particular, important?

For those who are innately curious about their own life path number, discovering your home’s number may be another way to determine if you and your home are in sync. The main idea behind house numerology is that each street address, and house number, has a specific energy and tone tied to it. Determining what that is helps you understand whether the home is compatible with you. 

 

How do I find my house number?

Calculating your house number is simple and handled the same way you would your own life number. You take the number within the address and add all the numbers together. Then you add the numbers within the sum together until you get one digit. For example, if you lived on 1234 Main Street you would calculate it by adding 1+2+3+4 = 10, then add 1+ 0 = 1, so your house number, in numerology, would be one.  If your normal address has a letter after the house number, say 1234B Mainstreet, you would treat the letter as an additional number. Going through the alphabet, each letter has a corresponding number. A=1, B=2, C=3, D=4 and so on. In this example it would be 1+2+3+4+2= 12, then 1+2 = 3, so your house numerology number would be three. 

 

Understanding Home Numbers

Now that you’ve calculated your house number’s numerology, it is time to understand exactly what energy and traits your home holds.

Number One Homes

In basic numerology the number one represents a creative side, along with standing for innovation and the drive to fulfill a purpose. People who live in a number one home can tap into their creativity with ease and explore all that is available to them with the latest innovations. These homes are especially wonderful for entrepreneurs and those who work from home.

Number Two Homes

The number two represents a high level of sentiment and compassion, making these homes ideal for couples, families and close knit friends. Overall, these homes are perfect for a sense of bonding and togetherness.

Number Three Homes

The number three is the most social of all numbers. These homes are great for entertaining, socialization and overall welcoming interactions. These homes are ideal for hosting parties, both big and small, and being the leader in the neighborhood for general entertainment.

Number Four Homes

The number four is a grounded number that lends itself to a high level of practicality. These homes thrive on a constant sense for structure and organization, making them good fits for small businesses or quaint organizations. 

Number Five Homes

Like three, the number five is a very social and outgoing number. These homes are rooted in celebrations and socialization, so gatherings are a must. People in these homes are often found to live more in the present moment, letting go of things of the past with ease. Number five homes are ideal for holiday celebrations and the most robust gatherings. 

Number Six Homes

The number six is one of compassion, grace, security and generosity, making their homes an ideal fit for children, families and pets. These homes are often very warm and welcoming to all who enter. 

Number Seven Homes

The number seven represents peace and reflectivity. Often, these homes are treated as solitude sanctuaries for those who live within them. They are the perfect place for those who love yoga, meditation, quiet reflection and mindfulness. 

Number Eight Homes

Eight represents wealth and prosperity. This is  the perfect home setting for those looking to grow in their career or business. Growth is the main focus within this home. 

Number Nine Homes

The most loving of the numbers, nine represents outward love, happiness and acceptance. This is a home where everyone who enters instantly feels welcomed upon each visit. This makes it a social place filled with positivity and understanding. 

Determining your home numerology number can be a great tool in deciding if a home is the right fit for you and your family. We would love to help you score the home of your dreams. One that checks off all of the items on your dream sheet, including fitting into your home numerology goals. Learn more about home numerology or set up a consultation with one of our realtors today. 

5 Common New England Home Styles to Know

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If you’ve traveled around the United States at any point in your lifetime, you’ve probably come to realize how different real estate is throughout the 50 states. From home prices and sizes to location, amenities and planned communities versus small-town neighborhoods, the home styles vary greatly depending on what state you decide to visit on any given day. Whether you’re a native New Englander or are considering moving to the area soon, there is a lot to know about the overall style in this area of the country. 

When it comes to buying a home your must-have list may include things like location, home size, bedroom requirements and price range, but often, home style is a forgotten selection. In New England, home styles vary from one neighborhood to the next, but there are a handful of traditional homes that you will always find in this area. You may have found yourself driving through an area of town where you loved the home style, but did not know what the formal name for it was. We are here to help you understand the different styles you may see when you explore your next home purchase in New England.

Explore the top 5 New England home styles to know today. 

1.Ranch

This one-level home first made its appearance in the 1920s as an economical way to house your family in a suburban-developed area. From then, until about the 1970s, ranch-style homes were one of the most popular home options throughout the country. Post World War II, their ease of build, flexibility in design and low cost were a perfect match for families throughout the United States suburbs. Ranch-style homes are one of the main reasons many families moved from the cities into the suburbs, growing the suburban area greatly post-war. Ranch-style homes are simple in design appearance, boasting clean lines and a simple color palette, without many intricate design elements. Many of these homes utilize an L-shaped floor plan on a single story. They also, often, include an attached one or two-car garage. Other features include a patio with sliding door, a covered front porch and a pitched roof. Most floor plans do not exceed 2,000 square feet of living space.

2. Split Level

An upgraded modification to the standard ranch-style home, the split level gained traction in the late 1950s. Similar in features to the ranch, a split level includes all of the same elements as a ranch, but adds in extra room and features for a larger overall floor plan. In addition to the added space, there is an upper and lower level, divided at the entry. This splits the home into three separate spaces: a basement, an open upper level that includes the kitchen and living area and a sleeping quarter that includes all of the bedrooms down a specific hallway. Often, the basements on split-level homes are finished to add more living space to the home. 

3. Cape Cod

Cape Cod homes, or capes for short, have been around since England’s colonization in America. Gaining traction again in the early 1930s, many original capes, built in the 1600s, were remodeled to fit the living space and requirements for the era. Some of the most popular features found in cape homes include wood or brick siding, a one-and-a-half-story design, wide shutters, a gabled roof, a single chimney and a centered front door. From the front door, there is a hallway that extends from the front to the back of the home and opens to each room throughout the house. 

4. Colonial

The most popular two-story design, the colonial is a staple home throughout the country. Boasting either two or three stories, these homes typically feature 3 to 5 bedrooms and are ideal for larger families or those looking for more space. The first floor is the living area, including a den, a kitchen and, at least, a half bath. The second story houses all of the bedrooms while the third can include an additional bedroom or attic area. Other features include one to two brick chimneys, a front entryway, a high pitched roof, crown molding and other more intricate design features. 

5. Victorian

Gaining popularity in the early 1900s due to new manufacturing techniques, the Victorian is a staple American home. Although older in age, these expansive homes feature elaborate and unique design features like turrets, specialized shingle shapes, multiple gabled roofs, bay windows and non-symmetrical floor plans. Often, they can be found in more eye-catching colors that vary throughout the interior and exterior. They are sometimes referred to as “gingerbread houses,” because of their intricate design elements. 

New England includes homes of all eras and design backgrounds, but many pinnacle American homes can be found in the heart of this area. The New England states are filled with vast history of the United States and that can be seen in the home designs that still pop up on the market. If you are in the market for a new home or hoping to decide on your ideal home design this year, I can help. Let’s connect and discuss what your home goals are and tackle your plan together. 

My Top 5 Kitchen Redesign Ideas

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It has long been said that the kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s a place where you eat, drink, share conversations and make memories together as a family. It is a place where friends and family come to gather for special occasions and holidays. It is a place where you try out new recipes and indulge in a big glass of wine after a long day. The kitchen is one of the most important (and most used) spaces in your home. 

Whether you’re looking for a change, ready for an upgrade, or preparing your home for sale, redesigning your kitchen is always a good option. From big changes like new cabinets and countertops to smaller, more subtle, but equally beautiful options like a refreshed backsplash or new hardware, kitchen makeovers can be a wonderful way to increase equity in your home while also boosting the aesthetics of your space.

Here are my top 5 ways to refresh your kitchen this season. 

1. Replace or refinish kitchen cabinets.

The majority of your kitchen space is showcased by your walls of cabinetry which can be a beautiful focal point of the room. If you have never replaced or refinished your cabinets, now may be the perfect time to dive headfirst into this home improvement idea. If your current kitchen has darker wood cabinets and you’d love to make the space light and airy, consider updating them to a white finish. This clean look brightens up a room and instantly makes it feel larger. Another big factor when it comes to cabinetry is overall layout. Are you happy with the way your kitchen layout works now? If not, consider replacing the entirety of your upper cabinets to a layout that you find easier for your specific needs. 

Some other cabinet refresh ideas include:

  • Adding a wine rack into or under your cabinets.
  • Replacing the hardware on your existing cabinets to give it a fresh look.
  • Sanding down your existing cabinets and refinishing them with a different stain to give it a weathered or worn look. Think farmhouse style.
  • Adding under cabinet lighting.
  • Complimenting your current cabinets with a fresh new backsplash that matches your kitchen design.

2. Upgrade your appliances.

Nothing says fresh and clean like brand-new appliances. The things that make us happy as adults sure can seem funny sometimes, right? But, in all seriousness, new appliances instantly upgrade your kitchen space. If you’ve had the same white or black appliances forever, consider moving on to stainless steel. This is especially important if you’re in the market to sell your home. New and fresh appliances increase the value of your kitchen space exponentially. Another thing to consider when replacing your appliances is refrigerator size and layout. Do you like the double doors or the double doors with the drawer fridge at the bottom? How about the extra large fridge with a peek-a-boo glass door? There are so many options so go out there and explore new appliances to touch, see and feel which options work best for you. This may also be a great time to update your range from electric to gas, or vice versa. It will take a bit of extra legwork when it comes to needing an electrician to replace the lines, but choose what makes you happiest cooking at your stovetop.

3. Add a kitchen island for extra seating and prep space.

Have you always yearned for island vibes? The kitchen kind, that is. Updating your kitchen may include space for a new island or a refreshed version of the one you currently have. Islands are great spots to add extra seating and eating space while allowing more countertop space for more elbow room while prepping and cooking your meals. If you have the space available to you in your kitchen, give a kitchen island the green light. Match the countertop to the rest of your kitchen’s countertops and consider adding things like a wine fridge, a small prep sink and more storage space in the form of cabinets and drawers. Make sure to include outlets on both sides of your island, allowing it to be used as a functional eat and work space. 

4. Add a focal wall.

No matter the room, focal walls are always a “yes” from me. Adding personalized touches to your space is essential to turning a house into a home. 

A kitchen focal wall can include things like:

  • A pop of color that accents your current wall color
  • A colorful wallpaper that compliments your existing style
  • Floating shelves to house your best dishes
  • A photo collage of all things food
  • A coffee bar and mug rack
  • A wine rack
  • Kitchen decor

5. Don’t forget the lighting. 

Lighting is everything. It can set the mood and tone for an entire room. Lighting is especially important in rooms that are highly trafficked within your home. Replace outdated light fixtures with fresh new options to create a fresh ambiance in your space. Recessed lighting is another great choice for kitchens as it allows the room to be evenly lit throughout the space. Consider opting for dimmable lighting so you can set the mood based on the company you are having. Other great lighting options include under cabinet lighting and motion activated baseboard lighting. 

When it comes to kitchen redesigns, no project, big or small, will feel lost. Kitchen updates are a valuable way to upgrade the heart of your home for years to come. If you’re in the market to list your home, but unsure what upgrades your kitchen needs, let me help. I would love to walk you through the design process for an overall better, and more profitable selling experience. 

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