6 Simple Home Changes That Make a Big Impact

Do you ever get the itch to redesign your home but don’t have the time and money to do a full-on renovation? We’ve all been there, but while you may think it is impossible, you can do it! There are many great tips and hacks out there that allow you to change up your home without having to pull everything apart.

Living room with wide windows
Used with permission of Leo Designs CHICAGO

Interested in learning more? Keep on reading! We are going to look at some simple home changes that can make a big impact. Let’s begin!

Painting a feature wall

Painting your walls is a great way to freshen up space. However, if you really want to make a statement, you may want to look at creating a feature wall. This adds texture, color, and contrast and can even make the room look bigger. Check out these interior house painters Edmonton to get started! If you don’t want to paint, you may look into getting some wallpaper, stickers, or decals.

Changing your lighting

Changing lighting can completely transform a room’s atmosphere, so if your home is looking a little dull, it might be time to spice things up! There are so many amazing light fixtures out there, so look around and find something that works for you. From modern lamps to beautiful and elegant chandeliers, there is something for everyone.

Rearranging your furniture

Living room with chairs and couch
Used with permission of Millhaven homes

Sometimes, all you need to do to make your home feel new is to change the layout. Consider shuffling items around, moving furniture in from other rooms, or taking out something altogether. You would be amazed at how different it can feel even with the exact same items!

Replacing your hardware  

If you are feeling tired of your furniture, one of the easiest ways to give them an upgrade is to replace all of the hardware. You can get so many unique and modern pieces, and they cost a fraction of the price of buying a whole new item. It only takes a few minutes and can instantly refresh your home. If you really want to take things to the next level, you may even look at doing your kitchen and bathroom fixtures as well! 

Organizing your belongings

Window with flowers and statues
Used with permission of Breeze Giannasio

Every single one of your items should have its own spot, so if you find you have a lot of different things lying around, consider getting some organizational tools. Just take a look at some of these storage ideas, for example. By tidying up your home and keeping things where they belong, it will feel brand new all the time. Plus, it will make spring cleaning a breeze!

Adding texture

Not many people realize how vital texture can be in a room. By layering rugs, playing with patterns, purchasing pillows, and installing curtains, you can make space feel much more comfortable, enticing, and cozy. It really is one of the easiest ways to make a big impact, and the best part is – no tools are required. It’s a win-win! Thanks to euromenpainting.com for consulting. 

How to Boost Immunity and Increase Resistance

There are several reasons why doctors, nurses, and the larger healthcare community refer to the body as a complex system. And one of them has to do with the immune system. For those not as familiar with it, the immune system is a network of cells and proteins that work collectively to protect the body against infections and illnesses.

In other words, the stronger the immune system, the better off we are in terms of our overall health. Of course, the inverse is also true in that when the immune system fails to perform as it should, we are worse off when it comes to our overall health.

Photo by Jared Rice on Unsplash

Multiple studies have found that a weak immune system can make individuals more susceptible to harmful bacteria, viruses, fungi, and environmental toxins. The same was also said to apply to autoimmune disorders. To create a strong foundation of immunity and improve where you may be deficient, it is recommended you take the best immune support supplements to help give your body everything it needs to function healthily. 

Further, in a study published by Pfizer, a renowned multinational pharmaceutical company, researchers revealed that an unhealthy immune system increases the risk of developing certain cancers. Fortunately, there are many things that we can do to not only strengthen the immune system but also improve how it performs.

Understanding How the Immune System Works to Keep the Human Body Healthy

Without making things overly complicated, the immune system keeps the body healthy through immunity and resistance. To understand to what degree, it helps to know more about the different aspects of the system first. That stated, the immune system is a seven-part system that consists of the following:

White blood cells – The primary role of these cells is to search for and ultimately destroy microbes that invade the body. For context, microbes are bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi that are responsible for numerous infections and diseases that can significantly compromise one’s health.

Antibodies – Although white blood cells are primarily responsible for ridding the body of dangerous microbes, they need help from antibodies. In short, antibodies help white blood cells recognize antigens, a substance on the surface of microbes that have invaded the body. The objective of antibodies is to mark microbes with this substance, which identifies them as foreign invaders. In turn, this makes it easier for white blood cells to identify and destroy them.

Complement system – Essentially, the complement system is a collection of proteins that work in concert with antibodies and phagocytic cells to remove microbes and damaged, unhealthy cells from the body. They also play an invaluable role in promoting inflammation, which helps fight off infection and speeds up healing.

Lymphatic system – In short, the lymphatic system is a network of vessels that aid in removing microbes from the body. The lymphatic system also plays a role in remove pathogens from the body that could potentially lead to the development of certain diseases, including cancer.

Spleen – The spleen is yet another critical component of the immune system. Much like the lymphatic system, it also plays a role in removing microbes, disease-causing pathogens, and other contaminants from the body.

Bone marrow – This spongy material inside bones known as marrow is responsible for secreting the white blood cells that make up the immune system. However, it also secretes red blood cells, which contain a protein known as hemoglobin. This particular protein transports oxygen to the lungs and facilitates the removal of carbon dioxide from the body. And it does not end there as hemoglobin from red blood cells also improves cognitive function and protects against neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s.

Thymus – The role of the thymus when it comes to the immune system is threefold in that it filters and monitors blood content in the body. And it also produces specific white blood cells known as T-lymphocytes as needed.

What Factors Impact Immunity and Resistance During Childhood?

Photo by Libby Penner on Unsplash

As impressive as the immune system is when it comes to the human body, it does not perform as efficiently in children as in adults. And this is, much like other bodily systems, because it is not yet fully developed. According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, the immune system in children fully matures when they are around 7 to 8 years old.

Before this time, they are more susceptible to illnesses, infections, and diseases. Some of the more common factors that impact a child’s immature immune system and compromises their health include the following:

  • Consuming too much sugar
  • A vitamin D deficiency (you can learn more about vitamin D supplements here)
  • A human growth hormone (HGH) deficiency
  • A lack of exercise

What Factors Impact Immunity and Resistance During Adulthood?

While adults do have a fully developed immune system, certain factors can prevent it from functioning optimally. And they can increase their chances of developing illnesses, infections, and diseases. Many of these factors are identical to those that impact immunity during childhood, such as vitamin D deficiency, human growth hormone deficiency, chronic stress, and leading a sedentary lifestyle.

Speaking of the Growth hormone deficiency it would be reasonable to add that the therapy is given only in clinically proven cases and as for the prices it appears not as expensive as it’s commonly considered. Here is the most updated information about HGH injection cost across the USA.

However, the following factors can also lead to a suppressed immune system in adults:

  • HIV or AIDS
  • Smoking
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Consuming a poor diet
  • Allergic diseases
  • Certain autoimmune disorders

If you have a suppressed immune system and suspect having an HIV infection, have a look for an HIV test near me and find a clinic in your location for a confidential appointment and testing. This will give you peace of mind and treatment options if needed. 

How to Increase Resistance and Make the Immune System Stronger

Irrespective of age, there are many things that people can do to increase resistance and further strengthen their overall immune system. Some of the ones frequently recommended by physicians, nutritionists, and dieticians include the following:

Photo by Wesley Tingey on Unsplash

Regular exercise – Along with improved cardiovascular health, exercising for a minimum of 30 minutes per day can go a long way toward strengthening the immune system. It might also be a good idea to exercise outside to get the added benefit of vitamin D exposure from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

For reference, vitamin D, along with supporting strong bones and teeth, helps strengthen the immune system. Of course, you don’t want to overdo it by engaging in overly strenuous exercises or exercising for too long as either can cause the following in the way of side effects:

  • Hormonal imbalances
  • A weakened immune system
  • Insomnia
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Sore muscles

Staying hydrated –Drinking a minimum of eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day is yet another way to strengthen the immune system. Staying hydrated allows oxygen and nutrients to circulate throughout the body more efficiently and helps flush away bacteria and toxins that could cause infection and disease. Plus, there are virtually no side effects associated with drinking water. And the cost of bottled water is next to nothing. Current data shows that the average price of a 16.9-ounce bottle of water, for example, is a mere $0.70.

Vitamins and nutrients – Getting the recommended daily intake of vitamins and nutrients is an excellent way to strengthen the immune system. Like bottled water, they are generally safe to consume and are not too expensive. For example, fish oil and vitamin D3 supplements, both of which can benefit the immune system, are around $0.20 to $0.37, respectively, per serving.

Routine physical exams – The benefits of regular physical exams with a licensed physician are many. For example, the blood tests that many physicians order for their patients as part of a comprehensive physical exam can detect hormonal imbalances, such as low HGH levels, that weaken the immune system early. The same tests can also identify underlying health problems that keep the immune system from functioning as it should.

Bottom Line

All in all, the immune system keeps the body healthy. But it can only do so when it is functioning optimally. That said, if you find that you’re developing infections or otherwise getting sick frequently, it could be indicative of a suppressed immune system. However, the only way to know with absolute certainty is to schedule an appointment with a licensed physician. Thanks to medzone.clinic for consulting.

4 Elements a luxury carport design must have

First, decide whether or not this luxury carport is going to be attached to your home or separate

This is the first thing that you need to think about before you can even begin thinking about what the must-haves for a luxury carport are. You need to decide if you want your carport to attach to your home, which limits a lot of your decisions but gives you easy access to your car on rainy days.

House viewed from across the street
Image by Pexels from Pixabay

Or you could decide to leave your carport as a standalone building that is placed a few feet from your home, whether it be on your lawn, beside your home, or in your driveway. Once you have this decided, you can continue on.

If you are looking for more luxury carport designs check out Fair Dinkum Builds.

If your carport is attached to your home, make sure the outside design matches that of your home

When building a carport for your home that is attached to your home, you don’t get a lot of creative freedom. Your carport, in order to look luxurious and aesthetically pleasing, has to match the aesthetic and build of your home. If you have a brick house and you are putting in a carport, this carport must also have a brick finish. There are slight design changes you are allowed to make, even if the carport is attached to your home.

The inside of the carport could be built differently with different materials and colors, or you could have a different flooring than what is found in your driveway. But unless you have a modern luxury home, don’t expect to come out of this with the fanciest carport in the neighborhood both inside and outside.

However, if your home isn’t attached to your luxury carport, take a look at these design must-haves

House and Cottage
Used with permission of Lisa Furey Interiors

If you have decided against attaching your carport to your home, you have the creative freedom to put together whatever you want. You can make it any color, any material, and any texture that you see fit. However, there are still 4 must-haves for your design that you should at least consider before you pull out those blueprints. Here are the top 4 designing must-haves for when you are putting together a fancy carport.

Smooth finish on the inside and out

While bricks and rocky patterns are very nice to look at, they aren’t the ideal image that you want your carport to have. If you are going for something modern and whimsical, the bricks and the rocks built around the outside of your carport are perfect for you. But if you want to have something that is truly luxurious, you want to make sure that you have a solid color with a smooth and shiny finish.

You don’t want the light to necessarily bounce off of your carport as this would just cause a terrible glare for whoever is directly across from the carport, but if you are going with a dark oak colored finish, make sure it has a little bit of shine to it so that you get the most out of the luxury aesthetic.

Windows if you have a fully closed carport

While it isn’t a must to have your carport completely closed up, just the opposite actually, if you did want to have one that is a bit more closed in so your car is fully protected, you have to include windows on the sides. This has a lot to do with letting natural light in, giving your guests a glimpse as to what is inside of your carport, and the aesthetic design of having a carport with windows looks a lot better than having a solid block with a garage door in your driveway.

These window designs are typically floor-to-ceiling designs, but you can add in the windows in whatever design you think looks best for your carport and your home design. Just make sure to add equal windows to both sides to keep things even and aesthetically practical.

One side of the carport must be closed off with no windows

Two houses and tree
Used with permission of Blackband Design

If you want your carport to have that truly luxurious look to it, you need to make sure that the front of your carport, or the back of it, is completely shut off from the rest of the world. Think about a four corner box, let every side of that box be open except for one.

This is how you will want your carport to look if you want it to feel like something that is really luxurious. The best part? It saves you so much space while still being closed, keeping your car covered.

Simple design that doesn’t look bulky and isn’t larger than it needs to be

Bigger is better for a lot of reasons, but when we are talking about luxury carport designs, you can’t assume that bigger is better at all. You want something that can fit your car comfortably, and you want it to look nice. Having something that is huge and that takes up most of the space in your lawn or driveway isn’t going to look luxurious, it is going to look like a car shed that was built for a cheap price.

Avoid this outcome by building something that is very thin and lightweight. Make sure all of your vehicles fit inside but spare no extra space. Thanks to fairdinkumbuilds.com.au for consulting.

Setting up retail displays is great for your business – Here’s why

Businesses try a lot of methods to market and promote their products and reach a wider audience. But, this process of marketing can prove to extremely challenging in more than one way. Not every business has the luxury or resources to execute giant marketing plans that engulf the whole mall. So, what can a small business do to promote its products and series? The answer is simple, a kiosk.

Photo by Christian Mackie on Unsplash

There are several other store fixtures that can help you promote and expand your business at a relatively low cost. Yet, none of them has the flexibility and return on investment of a kiosk. A kiosk can provide an easy-to-follow and stable path to growth and provides you to expand your business in more than one way. 

Here are some of the key advantages of getting a kiosk retail display for your business:

Flexibility

Mall Kiosk wouldn’t be as useful for small businesses if it was only limited to one use and one form. You can create a custom kiosk that looks exactly like you want it to and also provides some functionality that your business needs. You can showcase your products, sell products, answer customer queries, take complaints, provide customer service, and much more.

You can even make the kiosk part of a temporary booth that contains your products in physical displays. This flexibility allows businesses to utilize kiosks to fill the gaps in their business or enhance a certain aspect to the next level—all without any major investment commitments.

Extreme visibility and reach

Man working in home office
Photo by Bench Accounting on Unsplash

Kiosks are small and can be installed anywhere. This gives business owners an opportunity to get a kiosk installed in high-traffic areas. This increases the visibility of the business significantly. If for some reason, the traffic in that area dropped, you can simply pick up your kiosk and move it to a new location without many overhead costs.

That way, your business can always stay in the public’s eye. Having a kiosk installed in key locations also gives businesses the opportunity to reach a much wider customer base that might have never heard of this business otherwise.

More profits

Vintage-designed office with desk, chair, and painting on the wall
Used with permission of Kerry Spears, Nathan Schroeder and Kelli Boyd Photography

Increasing revenue and earning profits is the goal of any business. But, the cost of expanding is too much. If a business doesn’t have money to throw at marketing, its chances of expansion are seriously hampered. Luckily, kiosks are here for the rescue of these small businesses. Kiosks themselves don’t cost that much compared to the utility that they provide, and leasing a place to install them is also not as expensive. This levels the playing field and gives small businesses a major chance at success.

Lower costs

As mentioned earlier, the overall cost of getting a kiosk installed is relatively small. Combine this with the fact that you don’t have to hire new employees for the work that can be done via kiosk, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for success. The critical point at the end of the day is to understand what your business needs and investing in that aspect of a kiosk. Thanks to antdisplay.com for consulting.

Choosing The Best Home For You

For first-time home buyers, it can be overwhelming and very stressful trying to find the ideal home for their family. Although the stress can appear to be quite real, it frequently is unnecessary. It is best to try to keep an open mind instead of attempting to find a completely perfect home on the market.

living room with chairs, TV and coffee table
Used with permission of Millhaven homes

Approach this situation by being willing to listen to ideas. If you do this, it will greatly increase your chance to find a house that your family and you will love. It can be a long process and requires work, but in the end, will be worth it. The following are some tips to help guide you as you are looking for houses for sale at potential new houses and how to know whether or not it is the best home for you and your family.

Figure Out What Your Deal Breakers Are

To narrow things down to find the best house for you the easiest way to do this is to begin by figuring out the things you cannot tolerate and the things that you cannot live without. If a two-bedroom house will not work for you, or you need to have a big backyard because you have pets, make a list of these things so that you can eliminate properties that are not worth your time to look at.

Trust Your Instincts

White-designed kitchen and dining room
Used with permission of Melanie Gowen

At times you might walk into a house and it appears that it may be just what you need. However, there is something about it that you are unable to shake. On the other hand, if you take a tour of a house and fall in love with it instantly, trust your feelings. If you sleep on a house too long that you love, you might end up losing the house to another buyer. Trust your instincts. If you do you will end up with the perfect home for you. 

Try Visualising Yourself In The House

Can you imagine yourself in the house? Can you visualise your kids doing their homework inside the kitchen or playing out in the backyard? If you are taking a tour of a Mojo Urban Living house and picture already what it would be like for your entire family to live in it, then you are headed in the right direction of finding the best home for you.

Consider Location

Almost most of your boxes might be checked by a house, make sure you consider the neighborhood as well.  Are things that your family wants and needs nearby? Are you close to work and good schools? Be sure to consider location so you don’t end up in a house in an inconvenient location. 

Take Your Time

Exterior of the white house
Used with permission of Blackband Design

Taking the time to ensure a house is the right one for you and ensuring you get it before somebody else does can be a very delicate balance.

Tour all of the houses that are in alignment with your preferences, needs, and budget. Both emotional and practical factors need to be weighed. Consider the pros and cons of the homes that you are considering, but also listen to your gut. When it comes to finding the right house, sometimes you just know.

Although it can be time-sensitive, it is important to not rush the process, since it is one of the larger and most important financial decisions you will ever make. But don’t drag things out once you have determined what you want and have done your research. Thanks to rossnorthhomes.com.au for consulting.

How to Transform a Small Garden

You can do so much with even a small space when it comes to your garden. From transforming your balcony to maximizing your green space outside, there are so many ways to transform what you have. With this guide, you’ll be able to design a truly innovative space that makes use of what you have and gives you so many wonderful possibilities for the future.

Backyard garden with pool and Buddha statue
Photo by Jennifer Marcus on Unsplash

You deserve to have a little garden oasis, no matter how small your garden is. With this guide and a bit of creativity, you’ll be able to create one for yourself in no time at all.

Know What Key Features You Want to Add

There are many things that you can add, even to a small garden. For example, there are many great vertical garden solutions that will allow you to plant local flora and fauna or even grow fruits and vegetables without taking up too much space. Then there are things like water features.

You can add a water feature even in a small space. In fact, your small space will be better off for it. This is because there likely isn’t enough room to spread out or to play games in your garden. With that in mind, it is better to add visual and auditory interest to your garden instead. You can light it up with different lighting systems from Water-garden.co.uk as well, so that you can engage and enjoy your small garden, even at night.

Think in Levels and Vertically

Backyard with olive tree, table and chairs
Used with permission of Blackband Design

Small gardens all have one thing in common – vertical space. To get the most out of your garden, you will, therefore, need to install vertical elements to make the most out of the empty space. You do need to be very careful here, however. It’s easy and simple to add a vertical garden, mirror, or other design elements to the side of your house or alternatively to your fence, but other options need to be considered with care. Tree maintenance and garden care in Austin can help keep your garden maintained once it is established. 

Light access is the most important thing to any small garden, so you need to work with the sun and its position throughout the year when it comes to adding things like sculptures or, more likely, trees. If you want to add a tree in a spot that has sunshine, then a sparse option is best, as this way, you get dappled sunlight without casting your entire garden into the shade.

Choose Multi-Purpose Furniture

When it comes to the furniture, always pick options that are multi-purpose. Choose couches or chairs that can either be easily folded away or even feature their own storage space, for example. There are many great table options that can fold down when you aren’t eating or using them and other many great options that allow you to customize how you use your space. This way, you get more purpose out of your garden.

Add Storage

House garden with a storage
Used with permission of Blackband Design

From gardening supplies to other everyday items like camping equipment, there are plenty of times when storing these in view just isn’t enough. By adding storage, including shelving and custom solutions, you can keep your small garden beautiful and clutter-free. Thanks to Carol Trehearn for consulting on this post.

3 Concrete Ways To Kick Off Your Weight Loss Journey

If you’re trying to figure out how to lose weight, you’re probably swimming in negative emotions. You wish that you looked thinner and that there was an easier path. However, if you want to succeed, you need to focus on what you can do, not what you wish you could do. Here are a few concrete ways to get started and stay on a weight loss journey.

1. Seek Professional Help

Weight loss is a medical issue because it involves changing your body’s composition. Talk to your primary healthcare provider before starting your diet to ensure that your plan is safe. For example, if you have a history of heart problems and your plan is to run for two hours a day, that’s probably not the best idea. Your doctor highlights possible roadblocks, offers tips, and gives suggestions for charting your progress.

You should also reach out to weight loss professionals outside of your family doctor. Diet companies have different programs based on a combination of healthy eating, exercising, and taking supplements.  For example, the plan offered by Nu Image Medical involves three chemicals (Acarbose, Orlistat, and Naltrexone) that help lower your body’s blood sugar and fat retention tendencies. Working with a dieting company allows you to get regular feedback and follow a professionally designed plan rather than cobbling something together on your own.

via Our Food Stories

2. Drink More Water – and redecorate your kitchen!

Not only is water an essential part of any healthy lifestyle, but it’s instrumental in helping you lose weight. Drinking water makes you feel full, so you’re not tempted to snack or eat so much at dinner. Because it doesn’t have any calories, once you replace your favorite soda with a glass of water, you’ve already cut back on several hundred calories. When you are in need of something just a little sweet, you can still be healthy with something delicious from Gold Bee. For example, the organic honey from their website is great to put over fruit or yogurt, while being beneficial to your health. Did you know that people who keep fruit and other healthy foods on the counter or in easy reach weigh less? Find a beautiful fruit bowl and fill it with your favorite fresh, organic fruits!

via Our Food Stories

3. Get to Bed Early – and redecorate your bedroom!

Going to bed is the last thing on your mind most days. After all, you have work to do, children to care for, friends to see, and chores to do. However, not getting enough sleep can sabotage your weight loss plan before it begins. When you’re low on sleep, your body thinks that you’re stressed (which you probably are). As a result, it releases cortisol, a hormone that makes you retain fat. 

Photo by Collov Home Design on Unsplash

To start sleeping more, you must put down your phone, close your laptop, and shut off your TV for at least an hour before bed. Avoid aerobic exercise such as walking, running, and swimming at night, and do something relaxing such as reading a book, playing a board game, or crafting. If your body is digesting food, it won’t be able to sleep, so keep your meals several hours away from bedtime. Alcohol is a depressant, but it’s linked to poor sleep patterns, so skip that glass of wine before bed. Finally, caffeine from your last cup of coffee stays at a high level for up to six hours, so make sure you’re not sipping it through the afternoon. *Extra tip – research ways to decorate your bedroom for optimal sleep!

Photo by Kim Schouten on Unsplash

To make your weight loss plan a success, focus on these three concrete ways to shed your pounds.  Thanks to Valued Voice for consulting

Making your own home office

Working from home has become the new normal for many workers over the past year. As offices closed, our spare bedrooms and coffee tables became our new working environment. Of course, working from home offers numerous advantages like the flexibility of setting your own schedule and saving time on a daily commute. However, it also has various challenges that arise from working and living in the same space.

A successful home office should promote efficiency in a non-traditional work environment. Many remote workers have found re-creating an office environment at home is the best way to stay productive. Here are a few things to bear in mind when planning your home office.

Choose the right space

When you are working and living in the same space, it can be challenging to be motivated in the day and relax in the evening. Find a dedicated space for your work and only work within the area. If you are tight on space, it may be a case of building a desk in an empty corner of your apartment. You could even set up a workspace in your laundry room, hallway or garden shed. It’s time to get creative and rethink the layout of your space!

Right equipment

Home office desk
Photo by Grovemade on Unsplash

It’s essential to have a proper desk and chair in your office. Your desk should be big enough for all of your work, but not too large that it doesn’t fit in your space. Invest in an ergonomic desk chair to make sure you are comfortable throughout the working day.

It’s also worth purchasing a second monitor for your desk if you are constantly cross-referencing documents. A corporate office typically has two monitors per desk, so this may help you to feel a little more normal in your home office environment as well. 

You will also need fast internet and various connector wires to keep you online and working.

Organise

Home office in the corner of the room
Photo by Kari Shea on Unsplash

A cluttered office can become overwhelming very quickly. Declutter all non-important items and documents and organise the things you need to keep. For example, you could use a storage box and file divider to keep all of your documents safe. Organisation applies to the digital world as well. If your desktop and files are in random places under random names, it’s time to sort through everything. Keep your digital world tidy and organised so you can access everything easily.

Lighting

Natural light is known for improving productivity and concentration. Artificial light can make you tired and drowsy after a while. However, not all of us are lucky enough to work by a huge window. Invest in a daylight lamp if you work at night and adjust the lighting to the correct setting.

Overhead lighting is usually the best option for offices. Install spotlights or a desk light to help you read documents and concentrate on your work. Thanks to Allied Electrical for consulting

5 Ways to Make Your Home Feel More Custom

Most adults consider their home their castle or sanctuary, the place that instills safety and comfort.  Now imagine if you could easily deck out your pad to suit your style? Whether you spend a lot of time in your home or just use it as a place to sleep, adding a customized style to your space will make it uniquely your own.

A full-on remodel doesn’t have to take place for you to upgrade and customize your style, a few small changes can make your abode all the more inviting.  If you choose, you can go big and re-do entire spaces or stay small and add some flair to existing pieces in your home. Either way, these 6 ways to make your home feel custom will help you create the perfect space to express your style.

5 Ways to Make Your Home Feel Custom

Modern farmhouse
Used with permission of Patterson Custom Homes, Architect: Brandon Architects
Interior Designer: Tru Studio
Photographer: Manolo Langis

1.  Add Unique Pieces

Have you ever visited someone’s home and figured out exactly where they shop for their interior decor? While places like IKEA, Target, and Pier 1 Imports have a wide variety of options to furnish and decorate your home, you’ll be hard-pressed to create anything custom from their selections.

Try going online to sites and finding one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture or textiles.  You can look for handmade rugs and furniture or unique accent pieces like lamps or vases.  You can also search for antique and upcycled items that are interesting or uncommon.  Sometimes antique markets and swap meets will have some hand-crafted items or original period pieces.

2.  Create Your Own Art

Creating your own art will immediately add a custom feel to your abode.  By using your individual preferences, style, and creativity, your home becomes a gallery of introspection for yourself and your guests. Look at your home as a blank canvas that needs to be filled with content unique to you or your family.

Slapping paint on a canvas Jackson Pollock style isn’t the only form of creative self-expression.  Woodworking, sculpture, ceramics, and metalworking can also produce custom pieces that add interest and flair to your home.  If these kinds of projects seem intimidating, start small by repainting or refinishing an existing item in your home.

3.  Add a Mantel

Bright designed living room with firework
Used with permission of Lisa Furey Interiors

Adding a mantel to your home can dramatically increase the custom feel you are looking for. Being a focal point, a customized mantle can be used not only to display photos or frame a fireplace, but the mantel itself can also be the statement piece.  There are countless styles and materials out there to work with, it shouldn’t be difficult to come up with something original.

A great way to add a one-of-a-kind feature is to opt for a reclaimed wood mantle.  There are also ready-to-install mantels you can buy, and you can choose from a variety of stain options. This allows you to create a truly custom look for your fireplace area.

4.  Add Textiles for Texture

Textiles are a great way to add a custom feel while adding texture and interest to your home.  The textiles you choose to adorn your space will have an impact on the “feel” of your home.  Soft, furry, and plush textures create a cozy feel, while sleek blinds and finished edges inhibit a more contemporary style.

Adding rugs, pillows, tapestries, and draperies to a room is an easy way to add a custom feel to your home.  Even something as simple as a soft chunky-knit blanket draped over a leather sofa can add warmth and comfort to an otherwise sterile-looking room.

5.  Create a Theme

Creating a theme is by far the most fun and effective way to add customization to your home.  The theme should represent you or your family in some way making it a perfect avenue for customization. You can create a theme for a single room, like the kitchen or living room, or if you’re adventurous you can include the entire home.

For instance, if your family loves to watch movies, replace your corduroy couch with movie theater seats and make the giant TV screen your focal point. Add some popcorn and dim the lights for a weekday movie night.  Common interests like Disney, sports, space, and history are other examples of what you can choose for a theme. 

Quick Fixes

Living room with table and books on it, couch and pictures on the wall
Used with permission of Andrea West Design

Remodeling your home in an Ancient Egyptian or French Provincial style may not be for everyone.  Sometimes budget and time constraints get in the way of your new mantel or handwoven rug, here are some quick fixes that can help spruce up your place.

  • Lightbulbs: Use light bulbs to add a warm or cool glow to your space.
  • Houseplants: Add some unusual plants like the Marimo Moss Ball to create interest.
  • Aromatherapy: Use candles, essential oils, and incense to match the feel of your home. Try apple pie scented candles for a country home and natural jasmine incense for the boho-chic bachelorette pad.
  • Music: Playing some 50s tunes can light up a retro-style home and classical music can make your ornate moldings and fine upholstery seem more pronounced. Pair your music with your home like you would wine and cheese.

Final Thoughts

If you’re going for a custom feel, don’t make the mistake of overdoing it; there’s nothing worse than entering someone’s home and being overwhelmed by their passion for cats or basketball.  While the cat motif rug, pillows, and curtains are certainly following a theme, a simple shag rug, handcrafted feline sculpture, and exotic cat print pillows would be just as effective and much classier.

The easiest way to make your home feel more custom is to call on your own creative spirit to make style and design choices.  If you are the do-it-yourself type or a creative artist, use your home as a canvas for creation.  Those less inclined to create original decor can use resources like the internet to find one-of-a-kind pieces that represent their style and interests. Thanks to moderntimbercraft.com for consulting.

5 Tips for Making the Most Out of a Small Bedroom Space

Living in a messy or crowded bedroom can influence your life in many ways. For instance, sleep, focus, and even stress levels can be highly affected by this situation. With the popularization of houses with reduced spaces, interior design has shifted to emphasize space utilization.

An organized and well-thought-out room can surely be soothing, but achieving that in a small space can be challenging. If you have a small bedroom or are contemplating constructing a less sizable guest room, some strategies can help enhance these quaint spaces.

Plan Out the Paint Job

White and pale-gold designed bedroom
Used with permission of Lisa Furey Interiors

When it comes to enhancing a small space, wall paint choice goes a long way. Most decorators agree you should avoid dark wall colors. Instead, opt for lighter colors, such as baby blue and light yellow. If you would like to incorporate dark colors, save them for the ceiling, as the lighter walls contrasting with darker surfaces will make the room look larger.

Also, you need to know the difference between eggshell and satin paint. The first one is cheaper, does not glow, and is mainly used in kitchens or bathrooms. Satin, on the other hand, is glossier, more durable, and is perfect for bedrooms.

Additionally, as the color you choose can influence your mood, guide yourself by the principles of Feng Shui, which shares the best colors you can use to bring positivity into your bedroom.

Minimize Window Treatments

Although window treatments are great additions for just about any room, ample light will expand and brighten your space. Lighting can make a huge difference and affect your mood during the day.

Sunlight is associated with the increase of serotonin in the body and helps prevent depression or anxiety. It also helps your body regulate your sleeping schedule. If you do not get enough sunlight throughout the day, you could develop insomnia.

If you’re going to add window treatments, make sure to use lighter fabric. Thinner curtains will decorate your windows while allowing ample sunlight into the room. Also, install curtains higher on the wall to make windows appear more prominent. And, if you worry about privacy, you can opt for roller blinds.

Make it Comfortable

Bedroom with double bed an nightstand whit a lamp beside the bed
Used with permission of Kara Miller Interiors and Brantley Photography

When it comes to bedrooms, size shouldn’t impact comfort. Opt for plush bedding and plenty of pillows to make yourself and your guests feel cozy. Play with blankets, add a rug, and maybe even get some flowers to add a natural touch. You can also consider a full size plush mattress to fill the room and invite a great night’s sleep.

Also, making your whole bedroom smell nice and fresh can help in this endeavor. You can achieve this by cleaning all of your sheets, using a softener, and cleaning and mopping the floor with a pleasant-smelling disinfectant. If you have any pets, always remember to groom and bathe them as well.

Moreover, you can buy an air freshener to keep the good smell of your room. There are various natural and eco-friendly options on the market.

Avoid Extra Furniture

Skip the bedside tables and corner chairs. A small bedroom should be functional and comfortable, but too many furnishings can make the space feel cluttered.

Think about acquiring under-bed storage containers to stash clothing and personal items. Also, utilize wall space to install trendy floating shelves to display cherished decorations elegantly.

In this matter, you can once more guide yourself with the Feng Shui principles. These can tell you, for example, that you shouldn’t put furniture on the same wall as the door.

Hang Vertical Mirrors

Bedroom with dark bed frame, light pillows and plant beside the bed
Used with permission of Breeze Giannasio

This is a trick to extend your walls since it creates the illusion of a more spacious room. Hang vertical mirrors on at least one of your bedroom walls. This mirror can serve to preview outfits and enhance smaller spaces.

Also, you can use it to hide minor flaws in your rooms. If you have a little hole or scratch on your wall, this could be the perfect way to get rid of it. However, always consider reflections when you’re hanging a mirror. If you put a mirror in a place where the sunlight can reach it, you might get blinded once you enter the room.

Positive Vibes

If designed correctly, small bedrooms can be cute and cozy. Well-planned design choices can change the way you experience your day-to-day routine and your overall productivity and happiness. Following some simple principles can fix the problem and make any minimal quarters seem elegant. Also, Feng Shui can guide you through these changes and make your room feel positive with good energy. Thanks to nolahmattress.com for consulting.