Tag Archives: Home Selling

Alexander Johnson Photography

Scene of the GrimeAct fast. When a stain happens, act quickly. The CRI says since most carpets today are made to be stain-resistant, many accidents can be remedied if you get to them in time. The longer the delay, the higher the chance of something becoming permanent.

Blot, don’t scrub. Using a white cloth or ink-free paper towels (to avoid the danger of additional dyes bleeding into the carpet), blot the stain. Avoid using a scrubbing motion, which can cause the spot to spread or work the problem deeper into the carpet fibers. Keep blotting until the area is completely dry.

Scrape. If semisolids are part of the problem, scrape them off the floor carefully with a rounded spoon. Vacuum the solids until they’re completely removed.

Spot OnBefore treating a rug stain with a spot-removal product, test it out on an inconspicuous area first. The CRI says this is an important step, because some cleaning solutions can cause damage. Its advice: Apply several drops to the testing area and hold a white cloth on the wet area for 10 seconds. Next, check the carpet and the cloth for color transfer or visible damage to the rug. If you notice color coming off onto the cloth or discoloration on the rug, test another product.

Once you have identified a safe cleaning solution, the CRI advises applying a small amount to the stain and letting it sit for about 10 minutes. Next, working from the outside edges of the stain inward, gently blot the spot. Repeat as needed.

Grace Home Design, Inc.

Debbie Basnett, Vintage Scout Interiors

The CRI says in many cases, patience is the most important superpower, and it may be necessary to repeat the same step several times.After the stain has been completely removed and a brief happy dance has ensued, it’s time to rinse the treated area thoroughly with lukewarm tap water and blot dry (again with the blotting!) until all the cleaning solution has been removed. The CRI warns that some products will cause staining and spotting of their own if they are not rinsed completely.

To dry, stack a half-inch layer of plain paper towels on the spot and weigh it down with a flat, heavy object (or stand on it). Continue the process, changing paper towels as needed, until the excess water has been absorbed and the carpet is dry.

If you feel the need for speed, the CRI suggests using a dry, absorbent cleaning compound (such as Capture) to accelerate the drying time.

Dirty TricksKnowlege is power. Knowing what kind of stain you are dealing with will determine the best course of action. Here’s how to attack some of the most common rug and carpet stains.

Coffee, tea, cola. One of the CRI’s most recommended methods for cleaning a variety of stains begins with a combination of ¼ teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent with 1 cup of lukewarm water. According to the experts, although you may be tempted to add more dish soap, don’t do it. The less soapy residue you have to rinse out at the end, the better.

To create the solution, use a mild dish soap, never a laundry detergent or an automatic dishwashing detergent, since those often contain optical brighteners or bleaching agents, which can harm carpet dyes and fibers.

If the stain is stubborn, follow the dish soap solution with a mixture of 1 cup of white vinegar per 2 cups of water. The CRI says that since white vinegar is a 5 percent acetic acid solution, it acts as a solvent that will work on both the stain and the dish soap residue.

Finally, when it’s time to rinse the area, the CRI advises using lukewarm tap water in a spray bottle.This precaution is aimed at avoiding oversaturating the carpet and harming the layers beneath. Blot with paper towels and pat dry after each rinse. Several rinses may be necessary to thoroughly eliminate the residue.

Melanie Stewart Design

Pet potty spots. It’s not just the carpet stain but the lingering odor of pet accidents that concerns most homeowners. After the mess has been cleaned up, treat the stain with a product dedicated to pet stains or use the DIY dish soap solution. Blot until almost dry.The Humane Society suggests that after you remove the stain, use a high-quality pet odor neutralizer, which can be found at most pet supply stores. It cautions against using cleaning agents with strong odors, such as ammonia or vinegar, which it says may encourage your pet to reinforce the scent of urine in that area.

One DIY method for neutralizing the scent, recommended by the experts at Coit: Mix ½cup of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon of a mild liquid dish soap, and put it in a spray bottle. Then sprinkle one to two handfuls baking soda (depending on the size of the stain) over the area and spray with the soapy solution. Gently massage the dissolving baking soda into the carpet and allow the spot to dry completely. Finish by vacuuming.

As with all stains, test the process on carpet in an out-of-the-way spot first.

Rikki Snyder

Blood. If blood gets on your carpet, I’m guessing the first thing that comes to mind isn’t how you’re going to clean the rug. Once the emergency has passed, however, it’s time to address the mess — and quickly.If the blood has dried, gently loosen it with a wire brush to remove surface debris. Then use the dish soap solution with cold water to clean and blot.

It’s important to note that bloodstains should be treated with cold water, not hot, because heat may cause the stain to set permanently.

If repeated cleaning and blotting with the dish soap solution doesn’t do the trick, Coit suggests an alternative option: Mix ½ cup of water with 1 tablespoon of ammonia. Using a cloth or sponge, apply the ammonia solution on the blood stain. Blot until the liquid is fully absorbed. Finally, apply a sponge dipped in cold water to the stain and blot until dry.

Benjamin Moore

Chocolate. The professionals at Coit offer this advice for removing chocolate stains: First scrape off as much of the dried chocolate as you can. Next vacuum the stained area to remove any remaining flakes.Once the area has been cleaned, cover the spot with paper towels and set an iron to the lowest nonsteam setting. When the iron is warm, move it slowly over the paper towels. The chocolate should melt and stick to the paper towels. Keep the temperature steady, and as the paper towels absorb the chocolate, replace them with clean ones. Repeat until the stain has disappeared.

Another approach: The CRI recommends using a solvent, a nonflammable spot solution or a dry-cleaning-type solvent on chocolate stains as the first line of defense. It advises to never pour a solvent directly onto the carpet, since it might permeate the layers and damage the latex that binds the primary and secondary backings. The recommended solvents are Carbona, Energine, K2R and Goof-Off.

Pal + Smith

Josh Partee | Architectural Photographer

Wax. The experts at Coit advise attacking candle drippings on the carpet first with a bag of ice. Place the ice over the spot and let it freeze for a few minutes. Next, remove the bag and scrape off the dried wax with the edge of a butter knife. Vacuum up any remaining pieces. If wax residue remains, place a brown paper bag or clean cloth over the spot and, using a warm iron on a low nonsteam setting, move gently over the bag or cloth. The heat will cause the residue to be absorbed into the bag or cloth. Repeat with a fresh bag or cloth until the residue is gone.If a colored candle leaves a stain, pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol onto a clean white cloth and gently dab at the stain. Blot the carpet until it is dry.

Ink markers. Everyone loves a good art project, just not on the carpet. If a petite Picasso has left a mark on your rug, there are several options for taking care of the stain.Coit recommends dabbing the ink stain with either rubbing alcohol or a cheap lacquer hairspray. Use a white towel to blot the spot — the pros say you should see the color transferring from the carpet to the cloth. Once the area is stain-free, dab the area to rinse away residue with a damp towel. If color remains on the carpet, repeat the process using more hairspray. The bad news: Although you may be able to lighten or reduce the stain in some cases, permanent markers are in fact permanent. Still, it’s worth a try.

Heidi Pribell Interiors

Tomato sauce. Mamma mia! To get a tomato sauce stain out, act quickly. Work from the outside of the stain toward the inside, and use a spoon or the edge of a knife to remove any excess sauce from the carpet, according to Coit. Next, pour a generous amount of club soda onto the affected area of the carpet and use a damp sponge to blot up the stain. Then, take a clean paper towel and press it onto the area to absorb moisture or residue.Finally, treat the spot using the dish soap solution, then blot, rinse and dry.

Motiani Design

Grease stains. Cheese pizza hit the floor facedown? Fried chicken slipped off the platter? Coit advises the following:Blot up as much of the grease stain as possible, then apply something like cornmeal, which will act to absorb the grease. After a few minutes, use a brush with stiff bristles to brush away the stain and break it up. If the spot is still there, Coit suggests trying a dry-cleaning solvent, such as Afta cleaning fluid, and applying it with a clean sponge according to the directions.

Next, create what Coit calls a dry spotter, made by combining 8 parts liquid dry-cleaning solvent and 1 part coconut oil. Mineral oil works too, but not as effectively. Apply the mixture to the stain. Blot with a dry, absorbent towel or pad and repeat as needed.

As with all spot-cleaning remedies, be sure to test on an out-of-the-way piece of carpet first.

Arent&Pyke

Spots on Sisal and Sea GrassSisal and sea grass complement a variety of interior design styles, but they can also be tricky to spot clean, which is why the pros at Sisal Carpet have posted a comprehensive spot removal chart on the company’s website that addresses everything from alcoholic beverages to vomit.

As an example, here’s what they suggest for cleaning a wine stain on sisal:

To begin, immediately blot (do not rub) the spill with white paper towels or a clean, absorbent cloth. Sprinkle on an absorbent powder such as salt or talc, then add cold water and blot. Finally, dab on the mild detergent solution, being careful not to saturate the sisal. Work inward from the edge of the spot to prevent the stain from spreading. Wait a few minutes to give the detergent time to work, then blot the moisture with paper towels or an absorbent cloth. Rinse with clear water applied to a clean cloth. Do not pour the water directly on the carpet. Finally, remove excess moisture by applying pressure with paper towels.

Teri Thomas Interiors

[ Time to update that old bathroom? Click here to find a contractor.]

Professional Help

Sometimes, in spite of our best efforts, stubborn stains or spots on vintage or delicate rugs may require the attention of a hired gun, in this case a carpet-cleaning professional.

Originally Published on HOUZZ, Bonnie McCarthy

13 Ways to Instantly Improve Curb Appeal

“Want to improve the Curb Appeal of your home, but not sure where to start? Take a look at some of these ideas and get inspired.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

If you’re trying to sell your home this spring — and really, there’s no better time, according to Realtor Mag — here are some ways to increase the curb appeal of your home, attract prospective buyers and give your home an edge on the market.

1. Give the Front Door a Facelift

You want the entrance to your home to be as inviting as possible, so start by giving your front door a fresh coat of paint. What color? Try red. In feng shui, red conveys a warm welcome. And adding molding around your doorframe will give your entryway a polished look.

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

2. Update the Hardware

Don’t overlook the details. If your doorbell, door knob or door knocker is rusted or simply outdated, it can leave a poor first impression. Whether you choose brushed nickel or solid brass, modern or vintage, select a finish and style that best suits the overall aesthetic of your home.

(Credit: PhotoFixPics/Shutterstock)

3. Dress Up the Doorstep

Continue the warm welcome by adding potted or hanging plants for life and color. If you have a porch, add patio furniture to help homebuyers visualize enjoying the front space. And don’t forget the welcome mat for a finishing touch.

(Credit: Anna Oleksenko/Shutterstock)

4. Make Over the Mailbox

Your mailbox gets plenty of use and is vulnerable to the elements, so don’t overlook it. Options include a stand-alone version or one that is attached to your home. A traditional look is timeless, or you can get more distinctive — just don’t go too crazy. Remember, you’re trying to appeal to a wide range of potential buyers).

(Credit: kitzcorner/Shutterstock)

5. Level Up on House Numbers

Your house number is an opportunity to add a distinctive accent to your home. Install decorative number plates to the face of your home or fence, or paint the numbers onto your door, decorative rocks or on the pots of an arrangement of plants. Your style options are endless; just make sure they complement your home rather than detract from it.

(Credit: Frontier Sights/Shutterstock)

6. Install Outdoor Lighting

Yard lighting isn’t just for ambiance but for security. Buyers want to feel that their prospective home is safe, so lighting should be ample around the exterior. Add hanging lights on either side of the front door, or pole light fixtures on either side of your front stoop. Light up the walkway and/or driveway with solar-powered accent lights, and consider motion-detecting flood lights around the front and back of the house.

(Credit: photobank.ch/Shutterstock)

7. Paint the Trim

Weathered trim ages the look of your house. Fresh paint offers an instant upgrade, and as a bonus, it will draw attention to the details of your home. Select a vibrant white or a color that complements the color of your home.

(Credit: Iriana Shiyan/Shutterstock)

8. Replace Gutters

If your rain gutters are detached or sagging, the best thing to do is just replace them. New gutters also signal to potential buyers that you’re good with upkeep, especially on important details that can cause water damage if neglected.

(Credit: Amy Walters/Shutterstock)

9. Pave the Way

A walkway that leads to the front door is an invitation. Brick, stepping stones or pavers provide a uniform look and are simple to lay out. Salvaged wood pallets or gravel create a rustic feel. Or get creative and pour concrete and stamp it with a design. Line your finished walkway with plants or solar lights.

(Credit: apple2499/Shutterstock)

10. Get an Edge

Few things detract from an otherwise beautiful home than overgrown grass and weeds. Manicure the edge of the driveway for instant polish. You can simply use an edging tool to create clean lines along your driveway, or take it a step further and add a border of decorative blocks or stones.

(Credit: pics721/Shutterstock)

11. Build a Trellis

Create a welcoming portal by installing a trellis or arbor over the walkway leading to your home. Possible materials include reclaimed wood, bamboo or metal. Then, select a vining plant for your location and climate — helping buyers to picture their future home in full bloom.

(Credit: Hannamariah/Shutterstock)

12. Plant Trees

Trees are practical as well as decorative, and easy to plant. When choosing which varieties to plant, don’t forget to factor in its full-grown size. If there’s room, plant two trees to line your walkway.

(Credit: Hannamariah/Shutterstock)

13. Out of Sight

Cover up any eyesores around your home with clever containment. Paint electrical boxes and weathered piping. Disguise trash and recyling bins and outdoor air conditioners with a privacy screen or lattice fencing. Tuck unsightly hoses into attractive containers. These charming but simple touches will go far with prospective homebuyers who are trying to envision your house as their own.

(Credit: Naddanai Kongsima/Shutterstock)

Originally published by Pro.com on Yahoo Homes!

Price Your Home Right at the Start

“Marketing your home properly is important. Pricing your home properly is part of Marketing. Price it right to start with.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

In today’s market, where demand is outpacing supply in many regions of the country, pricing a house is one of the biggest challenges real estate professionals face. Sellers often want to price their home higher than recommended, and many agents go along with the idea to keep their clients happy. However, the best agents realize that telling the homeowner the truth is more important than getting the seller to like them.

There is no “later.”

Sellers sometimes think, “If the home doesn’t sell for this price, I can always lower it later.” However, research proves that homes that experience a listing price reduction sit on the market longer, ultimately selling for less than similar homes.

John Knight, recipient of the University Distinguished Faculty Award from the Eberhardt School of Business at the University of the Pacific, actually did research on the cost (in both time and money) to a seller who priced high at the beginning and then lowered the their price. In his article, Listing Price, Time on Market and Ultimate Selling Price published in Real Estate Economics revealed:

“Homes that underwent a price revision sold for less, and the greater the revision, the lower the selling price. Also, the longer the home remains on the market, the lower its ultimate selling price.”

Additionally, the “I’ll lower the price later” approach can paint a negative image in buyers’ minds. Each time a price reduction occurs, buyers can naturally think, “Something must be wrong with that house.” Then when a buyer does make an offer, they low-ball the price because they see the seller as “highly motivated.” Pricing it right from the start eliminates these challenges.

Don’t build “negotiation room” into the price.

Many sellers say that they want to price their home high in order to have “negotiation room.” But, what this actually does is lower the number of potential buyers that see the house. And we know that limiting demand like this will negatively impact the sales price of the house.

Not sure about this? Think of it this way: when a buyer is looking for a home online (as they are doing more and more often), they put in their desired price range. If your seller is looking to sell their house for $400,000, but lists it at $425,000 to build in “negotiation room,” any potential buyers that search in the $350k-$400k range won’t even know your listing is available, let alone come see it!

A better strategy would be to price it properly from the beginning and bring in multiple offers. This forces these buyers to compete against each other for the “right” to purchase your house.

Look at it this way: if you only receive one offer, you are set up in an adversarial position against the prospective buyer. If, however, you have multiple offers, you have two or more buyers fighting to please you. Which will result in a better selling situation?

The Price is Right

Great pricing comes down to truly understanding the real estate dynamics in your neighborhood. Look for an agent that will take the time to simply and effectively explain what is happening in the housing market and how it applies to your home. You need an agent that will tell you what you need to know rather than what you want to hear. This will put you in the best possible position.

Redo your Bathroom without a Remodel

“Want to freshen up your bathroom, but not up for the expense and effort of a full remodel? Here are some ideas on how ‘Redo’ your bathroom on a smaller budget.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – Dc Metro Realty Team

The bathroom is probably the best room in the house for a mini-makeover. When you realize how dramatically, quickly and inexpensively you can completely update the space without an actual renovation, you’ll wonder why you’ve waited so long.

Before you dive in, take a minute to consider what you’re going for in terms of style. Your bathroom should be a peaceful, relaxing space. Are you more soothed by rich, dramatic tones and style, or are you going for a more simple and serene spa-like space? Once you know what you want, take a look at these simple tips for getting the bathroom upgrade you’ve been dreaming of.

Source: Pottery Barn

Paint

This is obviously the place to start, since doing it yourself results in such fast and dramatic change. For the simple and serene look, choose soft and soothing tones to give you a greater sense of space and light. If you’re looking for a rich, dark hideaway, choose warm saturated tones to strike the right mood.

Hardware

Now choose drawer pulls that keep the style makeover moving forward. They’re available in all styles and at all price points, and this is another big change you can make on your own. Typically, anickel or stainless finish goes best with the spa look, while oil-rubbed bronze tones will add the richness you’re looking for in a sophisticated atmosphere.

Storage

Because our bathrooms are also spaces that our guests may see, keeping them clutter free is essential. Organization is also important for keeping stress on the other side of the bathroom door.

A quick and functional fix here are simple storage cubbies. Stash toiletries, makeup and other beauty and grooming equipment in small caddies that you can pop out and put away easily.

Source: TerraCotta Properties

Lighting

Good grooming requires good light, but when you’re just looking to slip into the tub and relax, you want something softer. Start your lighting makeover with a simple dimmer switch.

Replacing the vanity lighting fixture is easier than you think, too. To keep the job a simple and quick one, simply choose vanity lighting that covers the same space the original fixture did. You can maximize your options, though, if you tackle the lighting when you do the painting.

To take it up one more notch, consider a dramatic piece of statement lighting such as a chandelier or pendant that adds a sense of style.

Shower, sink and tub faucets

Now we’re moving into the updates that really make the space feel new. Look for sink fixtures that offer a little more height over the bowl and length extending into the bowl for the most functional effect.

Then, upgrade to a new showerhead that makes your morning feel anything but routine. A handheld showerhead that ties into the shower arm and can extend from the wall via a hose is another indulgent and functional option.

Source: KellyBaron

Mirror and medicine cabinet

Most standard medicine cabinets are not much to look at, and there are now plenty of options that will your replace your current cabinet. A simple beveled mirror version with a plastic wipe-able interior can update a rusted metal version.

[Click to find the right contractor for your new bathroom.]

But another simple fix if you don’t want to replace the whole cabinet is to build a simple picture-style frame right over your basic wall mirror. Just choose the frame according to the style you’re going for, and make sure the surface is moisture resistant.

Towel warmer

Even if you don’t have the most spacious bathroom, this is an amenity worthy of serious consideration. In case you think you just can’t spare the space, you’ll be glad to hear that they also come ready to plug-in or hard wire and hang on the wall.

Source: Zillow Digs

The final touches

New towels and a fresh bathmat can change the appearance of your bath space with little effort. Pick a monochromatic color scheme to dry off in style, or go all white for the spa-like aesthetic.

For a little added detail, consider monogramming your towels with your initials or “His,” “Hers” and “Guest.” This added touch will make all your efforts well worth the time and consideration of your bathroom update.

Originally appearing on Zillow, by Kerrie Kelley

How to use Common Light Fixtures

“With so many options for lighting these days it’s tough to know what to use for each application. Take a look below and you’ll start to know what to do and why.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

I’ll let you in on a little secret that designers use to get that photo-ready finish in a home: layers of light. Just like with clothing and accessories in fashion, when creating your interior lighting scheme, layering your light sources helps create a rich look that highlights great features and eliminates harsh shadowing. To do that, you’ll need an approach that combines many different styles of fixtures and sources. Here’s my guide to common light fixtures you can use to create a sparkling scheme for any space or mood.

Diff Miller Style & Design

Buckingham Interiors + Design LLC

WindowsWindows may seem almost so obvious that they don’t deserve mentioning, but they are key to many lighting plans. After all, natural daylight is what we so often aim to simulate with our electric lights.

It’s important to understand that even on a sunny summer day, natural light from a single window is not always sufficient to thoroughly light a room, and of course this is especially true come nighttime. Additional light sources near your window will allow you to subtly fill out the light scheme and achieve a balance so the space feels beautiful at any time.

Pot lightsPot lights, more technically known as recessed downlights, are probably the second-biggest light source people think of when looking to brighten and modernize their home. A grid of pot lights can help spread light over a large area and light the center of a space where wall lights don’t reach.

Borges Brooks Builders

However, a grid of pot lights is not all you need for a balanced light scheme. Notice that this space also includes a pendant, sconces and art lamps (more on those later), as well as a full wall of windows. Including at least three layers of light, from different categories and in different locations, eliminates strong shadows and adds a sense of sparkle that allows all the other furnishings to look their best.See more on creating a lighting plan

The Spotted Frog Designs

See more on kitchen lighting

Track LightsTrack lighting got a bit of a bad reputation in the 1990s, but when used properly, it is still functional and beautiful, especially for the kitchen. Pot lights aimed straight down will add general illumination but not necessarily hit the counter. An angled ceiling light on a track can put task lighting exactly where you need it.

Undercabinet lighting can also achieve a similar effect. Combining both will make task lighting in the kitchen look effortless.

Brandon Architects, Inc.

PendantsAnother important ceiling-based light source is the pendant or chandelier. The line between these two can be blurry, as a chandelier is essentially just a large (and often more decorative) pendant light. Chandeliers also are more likely to have multiple bulbs (which help create more layers), but what is or is not a pendant is still a gray area, especially with more modern fixtures like the one here.

Студия Enjoy Home

See more on pendant lights

But the more important difference in hanging fixtures is the way the light is aimed: either up or down, or providing a general glow.Downward pendants bring light close to a key surface, like a dining table or side table, which helps create a sense of intimacy. Upwardpendants and general-glow pendants give a more ambient light to the room’s core, with the former letting light bounce downward off the ceiling first while highlighting any overhead features in the process.

Envi Interior Design Studio

Toronto Interior Design Group | Yanic Simard

Wall-Adjacent PendantsPendant lights can also function like sconces when placed against a wall, especially in a bathroom. Always remember: When a person will be looking in a mirror to shave or apply makeup, it’s important to light the person and not just the mirror. A few lights in the center may make the room feel bright enough, but only lights in front of the user will truly illuminate the face.

Dropped CeilingsIt may seem impossible to add a pretty pendant light in many cases, especially when working with a concrete condo ceiling. A dropped ceiling panel can provide a place to house lighting fixtures like pot lights or pendants, or even a minimalist LED strip to brighten a passageway, while creating a beautiful space-defining feature.

Hansgrohe USA

SconcesSconces come in many forms, from artistic and ornate to sleek and simple, and can hold just one bulb or many. Single-bulb sconces that are spread farther apart will add light around eye level for more even brightness. For the total elimination of shadows, pairing two-light fixtures spaced closer together will achieve a salon level of clarity.

Contemporary Bathroom Contemporary Bathroom

Hidden LightsInstead of, or in addition to, sconces, hidden lights can add a general glow that bounces off the wall and into the room in an even subtler and more diffuse way. Cove lights are built into niches that hide the light source (often a plain LED strip), but hidden lights can also be obscured by medicine cabinets, shelving or storage units.

Lucy Interior Design

See more on bathroom lighting

LanternsAlthough often thought of as primarily an outdoor accoutrement, lanterns are useful indoors for adding an extra light to areas such as bathrooms, especially when a calming glow is desired for a relaxing mood. Plus, a glow coming from below eye level can perfectly balance an overhead light.

Emerald Hill Interiors

Standing LampsAlthough floor lamps and table lamps obviously differ in their typical size and placement, both have the ability to add gentle task lighting for reading while also infusing a general glow wherever they stand, targeting anywhere from the center of a room (say, on a sofa table) to a dim corner.

Urrutia Design

Jane Lockhart Interior Design

A floor lamp nestled against a window is a smart substitute for daylight, so that when the sun goes down, an ambient glow will pour in from a similar direction to balance the central light overhead.

Wall WashersWall washers, either installed on the wall or aimed down from the ceiling, are used mostly to highlight decorative features, such as an art piece or a textured finish, like a brick wall. However, the psychological effect created by lighting the walls can make the whole room feel much brighter.

Katy Sullivan Designs

John Lum Architecture, Inc. AIA

UplightsHave a beautiful or shapely ceiling? Uplights will bring attention to it and indirectly bounce light back down. Plus, they are often combined with a wall washer so the architecture is fully on display.

Toronto Interior Design Group | Yanic Simard

Uplights can also act as wall washers when installed in the floor, especially in contemporary homes. The effect of many wall washers and pot lights can be a bit modernist, and even a little cold, so use this effect only if you enjoy a minimalist, gallery-inspired look.

Ultimately, when implemented correctly, a great lighting scheme won’t necessarily be the first thing you notice. But layers of light, coming together to bring out the best in your space, will make sure that wherever your eyes do fall, all they will see is a perfect photo-ready finish.

As published on HOUZZ, by Yanick Simard

Upgrade Your Grilling Setup

“Want to take you grilling area to the next level? Here are some amazing ideas that have been implemented by homeowners that are serious about their grilling experiences.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

Grills by themselves aren’t much to look at. They’re basically large, hulking pieces of stainless steel that stick out like sore thumbs in our backyards. So we’re always trying to slip covers over them or wheel them around to the side of the house. It doesn’t have to be this way — designers are coming up with clever ways to make grills actually something that you want to put front and center. As you fire up your grill this Labor Day, consider some of these smoking ideas for an update.

Sarah Greenman

Paradise Restored Landscaping & Exterior Design

Follow function. This grill setup packs a lot of function into a small corner. The sink is a great feature that saves countless trips indoors to wash utensils and vegetables. Plus, when the owners aren’t grilling, this spot likely serves as a great gardening station.

See how to get a built-in grill

Here we see the definition of multifunctional. A large grill sits flush with a stone countertop that supports many purposes — an ice bucket, a pizza oven, a fireplace and wood storage. Our prehistoric ancestors sure would have been proud.

Derviss Design

Let there be light. Did you know that improper lighting accounts for 52 tons of burned meat every year? OK, I made that up, but proper lighting is key for any grilling station, and not just so you can see what you’re cooking. I love how the string bulbs make the grill shown here feel like part of the party.

John Kraemer & Sons

Paradise Restored Landscaping & Exterior Design

Here a clever crossbar has three high-powered bulbs for complete task lighting.

Garrison Hullinger Interior Design Inc.

Give it shade. Just as lighting helps facilitate good grilling at night, shade can make a world of difference on hot days. Here a simple shade structure has turned a small porch into a space brimming with character. Imagine this grill sitting on the deck just by itself.

Make it unique. Want to make your grill area more appealing? Do something different. Here the homeowners skipped a grill altogether in favor of an Evo cooktop; in addition to grilling, you can use it to sear, sauté, stir-fry, steam, poach and more.

Dyna Contracting

Here a regular gas grill got the star treatment with a cantilevered feature that brings it out from the covered patio.

Sun Valley Landscaping

A gas fire pit can be instantly converted to a large grill with two grates. Imagine how a setup like this would change the vibe at your next barbecue.

Shane D. Inman

Take it inside. Who says grilling has to be done entirely outside? At first glance you might think this is a typical home kitchen. But in fact it’s a screened-in porch with a 36-inch built-in grill, concrete counters, a full-size refrigerator, a dishwasher and even an ice maker.

Solaris Inc.

This sunroom in Charleston, South Carolina, has everything one could need — shade, a good view, a TV for sporting events and movies, a fireplace and a large grill complete with its own vent hood.

Solaris Inc.

Give it style. Charleston knows how to do sunrooms. Here a furniture-style case lets the grill blend in with the other wood furnishings.

Thompson Custom Homes

Michael Kelley Photography

And here a wooden grill table with metal wheels helps connect the cooking area to the rest of the outdoor furnishings.

See more sublime outdoor havens

Have a seat. A lot of the grilling process is just sitting around and waiting for things to cook. For that an inviting lounge area nearby is a must. Cushioned furniture like the kind seen here would do the job nicely, but it’s the swing chairs that would really keep you on the edge of your seat.

Melton Design Build

Make it easier. Grilling can also involve a lot of back-and-forth between the kitchen and grill to pick up utensils and ingredients and then deliver the cooked food. A pass-through like the one seen here makes a great addition to any grill setup if you can swing it.

How to Keep Your Stainless Steel Clean

“Many of us have Stainless Steel Appliances and we’ve figured out what seems to work for cleaning them. However here are some good tips on specific stains and the importance of being consistent in how you clean.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

For the past few years, designers have debated whether or not stainless steel will continue to reign supreme in kitchens across America or lose its popularity to glossy black or white appliances boasting sleek, smooth finishes.While the trendsetters debate, however, millions of us continue to choose to live with the commercially cool look and functionality of stainless steel. Whether you have a little or a lot of the shiny stuff, here’s what experts suggest we do about those fingerprints, and how to care for and clean one of the hardest-working surfaces in the house.

Studio William Hefner

Holland Rogers Company, LLC

Keeping Stains off the Stainless. Aside from looking great and having a smooth, nonporous surface that hinders the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, one of the reasons stainless steel is so widely used in professional kitchens is that it won’t rust easily in spite of daily wear and tear.Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean rust and stains can’t happen.The experts at the North American Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers say that if the protective film on stainless surfaces is scratched with a steel pad or wire brush, comes into contact with hard water that is allowed to puddle or sit, or is exposed to chlorides from household cleansers, it becomes vulnerable to damage.

Safety first. For safe care and cleaning, start with the right tools. The European Stainless Steel Development Association, or ESDA, suggests using soft sponges and microfiber cloths as the first line of defense.Don’t clean with steel scouring pads, which can scratch. Instead choose plastic scrubbing pads for tough jobs.

Lankford Design Group

Schwartz and Architecture

Go with the grain. On stainless steel surfaces with brushed or polished finishes, always wipe and scrub in the same direction as the “grain” lines in the metal.

Elizabeth P. Lord Residential Design LLC

Better with age. The ESDA says in addition to the availability of an increasing number of fingerprint-proof finishes, regular stainless steel shows fewer fingerprints over time. Patience is a virtue.

Tim Barber LTD Architecture & Interior Design

Stainless solutions. When it comes to choosing cleaning products, Mindi DiNunno, owner of Polished 2 Perfection, says whatever you decide, the key to cleaning is sticking to it. “Stay consistent,” she says. “Most cleansers don’t blend together well, and it makes it much harder to keep perfect. For appliances, we use CLR [Stainless Steel Cleaner]. It will clean off any hard-water stains from the water and ice dispenser and any drips or food.”Like the other experts, she says to make sure to go with the grain.

Since products containing chloride can be harmful to the protective finish on stainless steel, the ESDA advises using the following:

Diluted vinegar (for cleaning limescale)
Baking soda (to remove coffee deposits)
Alcoholic solvents, such as acetone (for removing adhesives)
Chloride-free glass sprays (especially efficient for polished, mirror-like surfaces)
Commercially manufactured pastes and sprays that specify use on stainless steel

Naturally clean. For a DIY approach to cleaning using pantry items, the sustainable-living team at Eartheasy advises dampening a cloth with undiluted white vinegar or olive oil and wiping in the direction of the grain.To clean a stainless sink, it suggests pouring club soda on an absorbent cloth to scrub, then wiping dry.

Heather Merenda

Shine on. Spray cleansers made specifically for cleaning decorative stainless steel surfaces usually contain silicone oil, and although they will remove fingerprints and smudges, they will not prevent them. The ESDA says the silicone oil can be completely removed by washing with mild soap and water.Using a polishing paste is another way to keep stainless sparkling. Commercially sold pastes, such as 3M Marine Metal Restorer and Polish, will create a microscopic wax layer on the surface that will make it easy to clean. Since the pastes are resistant to detergents, treatment with a polishing paste may last several months. It can be removed using alcohol on a soft cloth.It’s important to note that pastes and sprays meant for cleaning decorative stainless steel elements — refrigerator doors, kitchen backsplashes — should not be used on pots, pans or surfaces where food is prepared.

Do not use silver dip polishes, like the ones used for cleaning jewelry, because they are corrosive to stainless steel.

Originally appearing on HOUZZ, by Bonnie McCarthy

How to Have More Fun with Your Decorating

“Ever found yourself wanting to try something ‘different’ or ‘fun’ when it came to decorating? Here are some ideas that just might inspire you to move a bit left of normal.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

It’s easy to go for tried and tested decor, but giving your home an offbeat twist can be more fun. If you’re new to adventurous interiors, you can dip a toe in the water by focusing on little details that pack a punch.

Abigail Ahern

Inge Clemente Photography

Play with scale. We get so used to seeing neat arrangements of accessories — a tasteful trio of table lamps or a midsize vase and a smaller votive candle — that we think that’s how it must be done. Play around with pieces in an unexpected scale — such as thisoversize flower arrangement on a small side table — and you will find yourself with all sorts of new possibilities.

You can take this playfulness onto other surfaces, such as mantelpieces, shelving and dining tables too.

Browse shelves in the Shop section

Go for quirky shelving. Who says shelving has to be horizontal? These unusual box shelves are designed to be mounted at an angle. There are many offbeat and beautiful designs available these days as an alternative to the standard bookcase — so dare to be different.

Avocado Sweets Interior Design Studio

Mount your favorite pieces. A feature wall doesn’t have to be just about wallpaper. This homeowner has gone one step further by mounting a collection of vintage radios on the wall.

Create your own 3D feature wall from old cameras, musical instruments, hats — just make it something you’re committed to collecting and that you will actually enjoy looking at day after day.

Brian O’Tuama Architects

Avocado Sweets Interior Design Studio

Turn clothing into art. A beautiful vintage tea dress, a pretty kimono or a tailored suit can be turned into art. It’s a wonderful way to add interest to an alcove.

Choose cheeky wallpaper. Add some fun to your hallway and set the tone with some Bond Girls wallpaper, or pick a risqué burlesque design. Alternatively, wallpaper designed for kids can look effective in a grown-up context. Fancy hot-air balloons or foxes in the hallway? Why not?

Chris Snook

Mix traditional and retro. Playful design is often about an unexpected juxtaposition. Disco balls are not, of course, authentic decor for a medieval priory with a beamed ceiling, but quirky finishing touches like this will set your home apart. When you’re tired of them, just take them down.

Brian O’Tuama Architects

See more on modern art in traditional homes

Carry it through to artwork. Urban art looks great in a traditional period home, particularly above an elegant fireplace like this, which accentuates its subversive edge. Likewise, mixing traditional oil paintings or old masters into an ultracontemporary scheme will make them stand out.

House of Locations

Heads-Up Hues: 10 Bold Ceiling Colors

Banish the white ceiling. Many homes have white ceilings to keep from overpowering the flooring, walls and accessories. But what if you decide to make the ceiling the star of the show? Ornate tiles offer a big dose of the unexpected when paired with a plain white floor and walls.

Amelia Hallsworth Photography

Get nostalgic with Legos. Bring a bit of your childhood back through Lego bricks. Here they jazz up a dividing wall. Surely incorporating toys into your interior is the ultimate in playfulness?

Originally Published on HOUZZ, by Karen Wilson

Your Guide to an Organized Home

“Once a home is organized, it’s so much easier to clean and maintain. Need some ideas on how to get started? Here is a top to bottom look on how to get your whole house done in just a week.”

Denise Buck & Ed Johnson – DC Metro Realty Team

Clutter getting out of hand, or just feel it’s time for a deep clean? Our seven-day plans for cleaning and organizing your home, room by room, offer a flexible blueprint for bringing serenity to your space.Each plan is organized with the first few days requiring the most work, so you can get started on a weekend. This will allow you to get a jump start and finish up smaller tasks in the evenings during the week — but you can always pick and choose among tasks to better fit your needs (and your time). Jump to the room that needs the most help or start at the beginning and do them all.

Martha O’Hara Interiors

Matthew Bolt Graphic Design

Entry hall. The entryway is the first place you (and your guests) see, and it also tends to be a magnet for dirt, mud and clutter. Tap into this weeklong plan when you’re ready to make a clean sweep and set up new systems to keep it looking fresh and orderly.

Getting started: Get in the habit of opening your mail as soon as you walk in the door, while standing over the recycling bin. At the end of each day, put away anything sitting around in the entry that doesn’t belong.

Get the 7-day plan

Kitchen. The kitchen is one of the hardest-working spaces in the home — is it any wonder it can get pretty grungy?

Getting started: Start fresh by deep cleaning your kitchen, including those hidden spots that get missed in a quick weekly clean, and organize your cooking tools for smoother meal prep. Take everything out of the fridge and freezer, one shelf at a time, and toss anything that has gone bad or that you know you won’t eat. There is no reason to let that salad dressing you tried and hated sit there for another year.

Liz Carroll Interiors

Dining room. Whether you use your dining room constantly or wish you used it more, devoting some time to getting this space refreshed, dusted and organized is sure to inspire lively dinners.

Getting started:

Remove anything that belongs in another room: shopping bags waiting to be unpacked, library books that need to be returned, kids’ toys, piles of mail, laptops — whatever you’ve got.
Completely clear the stuff off the dining table, floors and other surfaces. Most decor can stay (for now), but if it has a home in another room, out it goes.

Tim Cuppett Architects

Living room. The living room can be a hangout zone, library, cinema and playroom, and even an impromptu dinner spot. And because it serves so many purposes, it often gets crammed with tons of things that belong elsewhere.

Getting started: If you have a good vacuum with attachments, that’s the fastest and easiest way to banish dust in the living room. There’s no denying this is a lot of work, so consider this your official excuse to skip the gym today.

Vacuum the room from top to bottom, starting with cobwebs on the ceiling and working your way down to the floor.
Window treatments like blinds and shades can be vacuumed using an attachment.
If your curtains are washable, take them down and toss them in the wash on the gentlest cycle.
Vacuum or dust light fixtures, the tops of bookcases, picture frames and the mantel.

Nanette Wong

Bedroom. If you’ve been having trouble getting a deep and restful sleep at night, cleaning and busting clutter in your bedroom might help. Create a healthy, peaceful space by cleaning the air, banishing dust bunnies, streamlining your wardrobe and more.

Getting started: Streamline the wardrobe. Take everything out of your closet and drawers. Assess each item by looking it over for damage and trying it on. Put clothes that no longer fit or that you do not like in a pile to give away or sell. Put out-of-season clothes and accessories in a separate pile for storage. Put clothes you love that need alterations or repairs in a tote bag to bring to the dry cleaner.

Julie Holloway

Bathroom. Damp towels and soap scum putting a damper on your fantasy of bath-as-home-spa?

Getting started: Work your way through your medicine cabinet shelf by shelf and examine each product. Toss out anything expired as well as products you no longer use or that you’ve tried and don’t like. Just because you paid money for something doesn’t mean you have to pay again by giving up precious space for it. Don’t get caught up in organizing just yet; focus on purging.

Anthology Interiors

Kids’ room and playspace. If you crave a simpler, cleaner and better-organized space for your child, this can help. Learn how to tackle a big mess, rotate toys, start an art portfolio and deep clean — especially important for kids with allergies or asthma.

Getting started:

Remove clothes and shoes your child has outgrown and set them aside to give away, sell or store.
Remove toys that are broken or have missing pieces and can’t be fixed.
Remove toys that your child has outgrown and decide whether to store, give away or sell them.
If your child has a lot of very similar toys, remove enough so that what’s left can be easily stored and enjoyed.

Angela Ruple Interior Design

Home office. Staring at piles of paper and overstuffed files acts as a visual reminder of work, even when you’re trying to relax with your family — and who wants that? Roll up your sleeves, brew a big pot of coffee and get in there to stop the paper madness once and for all. And perhaps even more important, pick up a few strategies to tame the pileup going forward.

Getting started:

Pull every (nonpaper) item out of your desk and office storage and sort it into piles, placing like with like —for instance, all letter writing supplies in one pile; everything computer related in another.
Now take a closer look at those piles, removing unneeded duplicates (do you really need three staplers?) and anything that doesn’t belong in your office.

Southern Living

Laundry room. The laundry room works hard to get your clothes and linens clean, but it’s often the last place in the house that gets cleaned. Change that now by making your laundry area — whether it is in a dedicated room or tucked in a corner of the basement — clean, well lit, functional and a pleasure to be in.

Getting started:

Use a damp sponge or microfiber cloth to clean the exterior and inside the lid of your washer, paying special attention to rubber seals.
If your washer has a lint trap or removable detergent dispensers, take them out and clean them with warm, soapy water in the sink. If not, use cotton swabs to get the gunk and grime from the corners.
Pour a cup or two of white vinegar in the washer and run it on the hottest setting, without any clothes in it.

Traditional Garage And Shed Garage Interior