Video: What Is Modern Luxe?

In this brief video, learn how to incorporate modern luxe into your home. Here are two tips: declutter and mix metals.

Wallpaper Is Back

Wallpaper is back. But with a difference. Use it in a small room or on an accent wall. Remember that less is more in the world of wallpaper.

This trend was popular in 2016. Is it still popular with you in 2017?

Guest Room A Little Blah?

Take your guest room to the next level with these simple design tricks.

Hot Trends for Kitchens

Can you mix farmhouse style with modern luxe in your kitchen? Yes, you can. Here are some tips on tile backsplashes, appliances and countertops that will keep your kitchen looking fresh.

Hot Trends: Rug Layering

Want to spice up a room? Try rug layering!

Wood Floor Sheens: Which Is Better?

Photo: Shaw Floors

Some wood floor sheens are shiny and some are not. Is one type of sheen better than the other?

It really is a matter of preference. If you choose to install a site-finished floor, you can choose any sheen that you like. Gloss finishes offer the most shine, and will reflect the most light. Semi-gloss finishes offer some shine, and will reflect some light. Satin or matte finishes offer the least shine, and will reflect the least light.

Generally speaking, the less sheen, the less you will notice small scratches and other wear that is normal with wood floors. If you choose to install a factory-finished floor, you will be limited to the sheen available for the material you select. All sheens will offer the same protection for your floor, so it truly is a matter of which look you like best.

Source: National Wood Flooring Association

Creative Carpeting

Whether you’re looking for wall-to-wall, area rugs, runners, solids or patterns, carpet can dramatically change the look of your living space. And in today’s marketplace, the possibilities are endless.

Color is one of the most personal and subjective elements of carpet buying. Fortunately, there are more colors and designs available than ever before. Consider some of the new neutrals, like yellow, light blue and pale green, in addition to the more conventional yet forever elegant beige, tan, ivory and cream. Also, remember that while light colors make a room seem larger, dark colors can make a room seem cozier and more intimate.

The area in which the carpet or rug is placed will determine the importance of durability. A high-traffic area needs a long-wearing, stain resistant fiber, while your bedroom may require only something that is soft to the touch and pleasing to the eye.

Rug Tips

• If possible, buy the rug first and make it your focal point, then dress the area with furniture.
• If space permits, the furniture should sit on the outskirts of the rug, not on top of it.
• Rotate area rugs periodically to minimize the wear and tear to any one part.
• If furniture lies on the rug, try to occasionally move everything one or two inches in order to keep it from permanently crushing the carpet fibers and leaving depressions in the rug.

Patterns can blend in or stand out. A large design can cut your room down to size, while a minimal pattern or solid colored carpet can make your room appear to grow in size. A bright floral design can make a room that doesn’t get much natural light, more welcoming than before. Patterns can also hide a multitude of sins, camouflaging the little spills and mishaps that come with life at home.

Carpet has become one of the most versatile items in home decorating and has found its way into 95 percent of all households in America. Recent innovations have produced products that are more vibrant, stronger, and wear better than ever before.

Source: Stanton Carpet