Make the most out of the holidays by focusing on a few simple ways to ensure that your home reflects the magic and joyfulness of the season. 1. Plan a Signature Cocktail Image: Jacquelyn Clark The holidays are full of friends, family, and hosting. Planning out a signature cocktail to serve throughout the season not only saves a little time when you entertain, but it also is a sure way to impress your guests. For an extra special feel, consider purchasing a set of decorative cocktail glasses or keep an eye out at local antique shops to mix and match a set of vintage selections. Pair your glassware with a beautiful serving tray, and don’t forget to keep fresh garnishes on hand for an added touch of splendor.   2. Invest in a Show-Stopping Wreath Image: Glitter Guide Handmade or purchased, hung indoors or outside, wreaths are a must-have during the holiday season. A front door adorned with a statement wreath not only acts as a first point of welcome for guests, but can also be used to set the tone for your holiday décor within the home. Wreaths can also be used to accent interior spaces, such as window panes, mirrors, or the backs of your dining room chairs. Go traditional with greenery or opt for a hardier display of pine cones and faux snow.   3. Make Mantle Magic Image: Coco Kelley Mantles offer endless options, a clean, symmetrical slate that you can decorate any which way your heart desires. Whether your preference is an impressive display or more of a minimal vibe, there are limitless ways to create a holiday mantel that will leave a lasting impression. Find inspiration in nature building a simple base with beautiful green garland or decorative berry branches. Then add in a little height and sparkle with a scattered arrangement of candles. The mantle is also the perfect place to display your prized collections from Santas to nutcrackers to village house displays.   4. Let It Glow Image: Craftberry Bush There’s something so serene and magical about the glow of a Christmas tree at night. Expand on that sense of serenity by incorporating other sources of light throughout your home. Decorative holiday houses glimmering by tea light make a great centerpiece for your dining table, or the perfect complement to your mantle. You can use a set of string lights to weave a little extra sparkle through garland or to frame interior windows. You can even consider just adding a few more candles to your everyday display.   5. Curate the Perfect Wrapping Scheme Image: Bev Weidner A well-considered wrapping scheme goes a long way, and here’s the secret. First, devise your desired aesthetic for the year. Are you drawn to a particular color, texture or pattern? Whatever it may be, choose your look and stick to it. Second, purchase all your wrap, ribbons, boxes, and bows in one fell swoop to ensure that everything feels cohesive. Last, keep it balanced by making sure you use all materials in even manner. Following this method will guarantee that your assortment of gifts under the tree will be (almost) too pretty to open.   6. Get a Little Quirky Image: Liz Marie Blog It’s always satisfying to piece together the perfect curation of holiday décor, but let’s not forget the joy and laughter that each holiday season should bring. It’s okay to add a touch (or more) of quirky to the mix! Incorporate a cheeky holiday print designed for a laugh, vintage Santa lights strung for all to see, or even that tacky lawn inflatable that your kids love if you dare.    

This recent Christmas was one injured Army veteran Travis Worrell won’t soon forget. The young newlywed and his new bride celebrated the holidays at home, after being welcomed into their brand-new, mortgage-free Smart Home on Dec. 23. After becoming paralyzed from the chest down while serving in Afghanistan in May 2012, Travis, who lives in San Antonio, Texas, can now move about freely in his fully accessible home. The California native and former combat medic is looking forward to making many happy memories with his family, which includes dogs Missy and Scout, in the years to come. The customized home features all the accouterments needed to ensure Travis lives a full, independent life- including wider doors and hallways to accommodate his wheelchair. Other features, including the installation of hardwood and tile donated by Atlas Floors Carpet One Floor & Home and Hicks Carpet One Floor & Home, will further ensure smooth transitions for many years to come. Welcome home, Travis, and wishing you all the best!

For many of us, new flooring is simply not always in reach. However, this doesn't mean you have to neglect your floors. Layering with an area rug is the perfect way to add warmth, dimension and interest to a room, and an easy way to keep your home on trend at a price that won't break the bank. Our recommendation for finding the perfect area rug? Find a wall to wall (or broadloom) carpet you love, and have it cut and bound to your ideal dimensions. Insider tip: Depending on the size you're looking for, you may be able to utilize a carpet remnant, saving yourself even more money. We've compiled 12 of our favorite wall to wall carpets that would make beautiful, on trend area rugs: GO GEO Geometric designs are everywhere in interiors and for good reason. Adding a geometric rug not only adds interest to a design, but is a wonderful way to break up an open concept layout to define an individual room or space. Dip your toe into this trend by opting for a subtle design within a neutral color family. From Top To Bottom: Shady Grove by Tigressa Cherish in Iced Ivory, Stencils by Evans Black in Ceramic, Orleans by Evans Black in Denim NATURAL FIBERS Natural textiles and materials continue to make waves in the world of interior design and flooring has not been left behind. We're seeing an increase in the amount of styles that evoke the look of naturally fibers like jute and sisal. Not only is this design extremely approachable, but it also nurtures a sense of well-being a comfort. From Top To Bottom: Sunday Papers by Evans Black in Briar Bush, Diamond Sun by Bigelow in Raffia Basket, Pindall by Innovia Touch in Eggshell MOSAIC MOTIF Mosaic-style design is one of this year's top trends in flooring, and what better way to dabble than with an area rug. With so many colors and patterns, the options are endless for a mosaic-style area rug. From top to bottom: Barston by Bigelow in Armada, Lackridge by Weavepoint in Fine Lilac, Maple Hill by Bigelow Prestige in Blue. STRIKING STRIATIONS Combining organic textural qualities with luxurious, lustrous accents, area rugs are mimicking the natural characteristics of wood and stone, making the perfect pair for rustic hardwood and matte tile flooring. This trending construction is achieved with an increasing use of striations along with blends of beige, gold, gray and taupe fibers. From top to bottom: Samantha's Sister by Bigelow in Lava Ridge, String Serenade by Lees Studio in Oshea, Cottleville Tones II by Carpet One in Blueridge Love what you see? Shop these looks and more at Giant Rugs.

A family room is a space in your home where everyone in the household can gather to relax and spend some quality family time together. Creating a beautiful family room that is also welcoming and comfortable can often be a challenge. Don’t forget these 8 essentials when you’re creating your beautiful family room. 1. Plenty of Seating Make sure there are enough comfortable seats for everyone in the family plus a few guests. If you don’t have a lot of space, try a sectional or keep some comfy floor pillows on hand so you can always welcome everyone in. 2. A Warm Glow There’s nothing like gathering around the glow of a fire on a cool spring evening. Whether you already have a traditional wood burning fireplace or you opt for an electric or gas burning model. 3. Table Tops A large coffee table is a must for family games. Keep the accessories light and easy to move so you can quickly clear space for a family gathering. 4. Soft Underfoot Soft carpet or a soft area rug are a must have for a family room. When you’re ready to relax your toes will want a soft place to land. And a soft floor is more inviting for kids (and adults) who may want to sit on the floor. 5. Color Pick a color that makes the entire family feel at ease – like this year’s trendy indigo blue. Think about how you want to feel in the space. Blues and greens can be relaxing but yellows and oranges can be fun and energizing. 6. Storage Make sure there’s a place in your room to stash all the family activities – games, DVDs, books and magazines – so they’re out of sight when you’re not using them but readily available when it’s time to relax. Built in cabinets or tables with drawers are great options. 7. Out of Reach Especially if you have little ones, keep breakable accessories out of reach. That doesn’t mean they need to be out of sight, though. Choose high shelves to display any breakable accents. 8. Plan for the TV Instead of avoiding it or pretending it won’t be a part of your space, go ahead and plan a place for the television. A custom built in shelf or a piece of furniture specifically designed to hold a TV will help keep it from being an eye sore.

Choosing art for the home is, well, an art. As an interior stylist, here are some tried and true methods to satisfy a range of tastes, all under the same roof. Step one: stand back and gauge your surroundings. A large space with high ceilings is best suited to two options: one huge artwork, or a collection of smaller ones. If opting for a gallery wall, choose pieces with something in common: matching frames, or an accent color. Next, consider what will share the space. When mounting a canvas over a fireplace, pick something that echoes the scale of the firebox. If the art will hang over a piece of furniture like a sofa, your canvas should be about 75 per cent of the width of the furnishing. This brings balance to space. Your art's subject matter is where people can get in trouble. In common areas, opt for neutral pieces. This means nudes; no religious or politically themed pieces; no family photos. As a designer, I use color to make an impact in my designed spaces. Color repetition is a powerful way to create a cohesive look. Choose a piece that you love, and let its colors inspire your paint, upholstery, pillows, rugs, and other decor elements. This sends a message that the artwork belongs to the room. Last but not least, practice restraint. Don’t fill every wall. Negative space gives the eye a place to rest, is calming, and makes the art more impactful. Art has a way of increasing anticipation, inspiring interest, and bringing you back for more. Choose carefully and follow these tips, and your art with be a cherished part of your home, everyday.

When it comes to home decor, staying on trend can seem like a daunting and expensive task. However, if your space has good bones and you're generally happy with your furniture, it can actually be simple to make trendy updates. Adding or replacing an area rug is a simple update that can make a big impact on the look of your space. If you're considering using area rugs to update your home, here are 5 design styles we have our eye on for 2018: Nod To Nature Organic fibers and natural elements add style and interest to rooms with other natural materials and earthy colors. Look for natural tones that complement the furnishings and accessories already in your space. We also love the added interest and texture of fringe. Area Rugs (clockwise from top left): Divine by Nourison, Serapi by Surya, Orinocco by Surya, Aldora by Surya Pretty in Pink Radiating warmth and well-being, subtle tones of warm blush, dusky raspberry, and dusty pink inspire feelings of rejuvenation in 2018, with emphasis on low-key simplicity. For a more subtle pink look,there are neutral patterns with a barely blush tone. Or, go bolder with a brighter pink and plum combination. Area Rugs (clockwise from top left): Gemstone by Nourison, Odette by Couristan, Pure by Surya, Italia by Surya A New Bohemian Old becomes new again when earthy undertones collide with bold, brilliant jewel tones. With carpet patterns inspired by exotic cultures and far-off continents, you’ll satiate your wanderlust without ever leaving your living room! Area Rugs (clockwise from top left): Phoenix by Couristan, Agostina by Surya, Moroccan Shag by Nourison, Bjorn by Surya Sleek Scandinavian The epitome of understated elegance expresses itself in cool color schemes, natural textures, and organic fibers - creating an understated oasis to relax and recharge. Great for neutral toned spaces and creating a relaxing environment, you won’t regret choosing one of these trending rugs. Area Rugs (clockwise from top left): Amore Aqua by Nourison, Glimmer by Surya, Shibori by Couristan, Pisces by Surya Bold and Moody Rich, saturated colors like fuchsia, deep purple, and indigo make a stunning statement on the floor. If you’re seeking a luxurious look that adds personality to your space, choose from a bold color palette of jewel tones. Area rugs are great for trying out a bold color in your space without making a more permanent commitment. Area Rugs (clockwise from top left): Fruit Punch by Couristan, Dip Geo by Surya, Plaid by Surya, Maxwell by Nourison

It’s the classic adage of the shoemaker’s children: as professional designers, we spend so much time investing creative energy into our clients’ spaces and homes that we often leave ours last on the list. The spaces in our own homes tend to remain neglected at the end of our ever-growing to-do lists, looming over us as unfinished business. Sometimes, we are forced to re-prioritize by an impending move or even a health or safety issue at home, and finally we allow ourselves to indulge a little in our own talents. For my family, it was a combination of all of these things, a trifecta of opportunities leading to the blood, sweat, and tears we’ve invested back into our family home. Once the ball gets rolling, it can be hard to stop—so much so that our children get off the school bus each day and ask what Mommy’s doing to the house now. Practicing what we preach, key areas get tackled first—priority spaces like the kitchen are at the front and center of our reno list. All the while, we are thinking ahead and planning how other key features can support our day-to-day needs in other areas of the home. We designed personalized built-ins for the entrance, we incorporated enough storage to hold all the clutter that gets thrown into bathrooms, and we even planned our children’s rooms to foster their independence with simple storage solutions for them to easily access their own things. It’s important to be organized and have a place for everything, and for our home to support our daily activities. These tasks can be accomplished even while maintaining personal style. We also had the chance to try out several exciting ideas we had not been able to use yet because they were vetoed by our clients! The kids rule the roost! Custom-designed millwork creates storage that supports their activities and fosters independence from an early age. Displaying your hobbies in the home adds personality in an unexpected way. Color-blocking ebony wood tones creates a dynamic effect. A custom light fixture takes center stage over the island. Layering textures with wood tones create depth and adds warmth. Bathrooms with modern amenities and adequate storage ensure you start and end your day in comfortable luxury.

Textured & Patterned Carpet Through a technique called cut and loop, where some of the carpet fibers are cut, leaving exposed ends while others remain looped, carpet manufacturers can create beautiful textures and patterns. Textures and patterns make carpet interesting and give the home a more distinct look. From more organic vines and waves to structured waffle patterns and geometric shapes, a subtle carpet pattern can drastically change the look of a room.     1) Longbranch in Lamp Post by Bigelow 2) Summit Point in Beechnut by Relax, It’s... Lees 3) Heather's Heart in Crater Rim by Tigressa Cherish Luxury Vinyl A relatively new flooring option, luxury vinyl, is taking the flooring world by storm. With realistic replications of hardwood and tile, these floors are easier to install, durable and low maintenance. Luxury vinyl flooring typically falls into two categories: luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and luxury vinyl plank (LVP). Plank styles are designed to mimic hardwood and are now available in wide plank styles up to six feet in length. Wood Look Tile Realistic printed visuals aren’t only beneficial in the vinyl category. Wood looks have also found their way into the tile selection. Ceramic tiles with realistic wood textures and colors are great for giving any room in your home a nature-inspired look. From bathrooms to kitchens and entryways, wood-look tile is versatile on the floors and walls.     Luxury Vinyl (pictured left): 1) Excelsior Tile Plus in Glacier by Invincible 2) Anthony Meadows in Carrington by Invincible H2O 3) Anchor Way Oak in Lion's Den by Invincible H2O; Wood Look Tile (pictured right): 1) Zumwalt Passage in Grandfather Clock by Bel Terra 2) Season Wood Field Tile in Redwood Grove by Bel Terra 3)Yorktown Woods in English Gray by Bel Terra Matte Finish Floors With a shift to more casual, comfortable homes, the gloss level on hardwood flooring has decreased. Matte finishes have a softer, more natural look that complements more casual, modern décor. These finishes carry through to other hard surface flooring as well, including tile and luxury vinyl.     1) Artisan Plank in Claro by Special Value 2) Sundance in Desert Field Oak by Rustic River 3) Eastview in Watchtower by Laminate for Life Double (& Triple) Staining There’s no need to choose one stain color for your hardwood floors. Manufacturers are adding dimension to floors with multiple layers of staining. You’ll frequently see options with two or three distinct color variations. These floors are great for coordinating with different colors throughout your home. Smooth Finishes While more texture has been added with color, less actual texture is being incorporated into flooring, making them smoother to the touch. Knot holes are filled in, and scraping is minimal. Rustic flooring we saw several years ago has transitioned to be sleeker and more modern but has not lost all of its rustic charms.     Multi-staining (pictured left): 1) Hamilton Park Walnut in High Tide by Rustic River 2) Altenburg Treasure in Cool Breeze by Bel Terra 3) Asiago in Durango by Bel Terra; Smooth finish (pictured right): 1) Wellington Bluffs Red Oak in Coffee House by Rustic River 2) Ozark Ridge in Desktop by Rustic River 3) Ozark Ridge in Hickory Natural by Rustic River

It's Not About How It Looks, It's How It Makes You Feel Have you ever stepped into a dive bar with undeniable character, a diner in which you immediately felt at home, or a hotel that made you feel like you jumped several tax brackets even though you booked through Groupon? How much do these experiences stand out in your memory? Is it easy to recall the way they made you feel, or can you recognize the shift in your emotions as you experienced them? Design psychology is what makes these spaces evoke emotional responses in us. Design psychology is the underlying reason individuals and companies care about or invest in design at all. It’s not necessarily about the details but rather the feelings the details create. When a client says she wants the home to “feel” like her, she’s asking me to rely on the principles of design psychology to create space that continuously evokes a particular emotion. When commercial clients say they want a productive and inspiring space, they’re asking me to create a winning combination for their team that promotes creativity and efficiency.     Deep down, the result we’re looking for is an emotional connection. By putting design psychology at the forefront of my design process, I can better address the true desires of my clients and create a space that will go beyond their expectations. To apply design psychology to a project, you need to ask the right questions of those who are going to be using or inhabiting the space. Often, we stay very surface-level with design and rely more on trends and superficial attractions to colors and styles. This is a dangerous area to work in. Frequently, I find that my clients don’t really know what they want. They may think they like a trend or Pantone’s color of the year, but this is not going to create the exact emotional effect they desire. It’s easy to fall in love with trends and styles, but without knowing how to utilize them to create a space that delivers the right feeling, there will still be “something off.” Design psychology helps eliminate this emotionless décor and achieve the client’s fundamental goal for a successful space. How can you use the principles of design psychology for your next project? Whether you’re working with a designer or planning your own home décor project, start by asking the right questions. Instead of asking, “What colors do I like? What are my favorite designers? What are my favorite design examples?” go deeper. First, think about your existing design: Where does the furniture come from? Why did you buy it? What about it made you buy it for your space? Who chose the paint color and why? Ask yourself about color associations: What do these shades make you feel?     Design: Kelli Ellis | Photo: Jeri Koegel Dive deep into what the desired result truly is. When people hire a designer, they’re looking for someone else to make the change. A designer should be a catalyst for that change by understanding what you’re trying to achieve on a deeper level: • How do you want to feel when you walk into the room? • What kind of activity will occur in the space and what mind-set does that require? • What purpose does the room serve for you and others? Particularly with residential clients, what people want is often personal and complex, and the result of many past experiences. I like to get to know what inspires clients and makes them feel comfortable, at peace, relaxed, and so on. Often, I will discover there are fairly obvious reasons that their spaces are not working for them. This understanding helps me make designer choices that will achieve the desired result. I have a strong example of this advice: one of my clients, whose sister was killed decades ago, still had the majority of her sister’s furniture in her living room. Naturally, she wanted a change because she felt heaviness in her home. Her decorations were her sister’s belongings, which did not reflect her style, and they also served as a reminder of a family tragedy. Even though my client didn’t want to forget her sister, having these belongings in her home wasn’t evoking happy emotions or memories of her sister. Utilizing design psychology, we conducted a deep, emotion-based inventory of the items before picking mementos that had positive memories. We then reupholstered furnishings to match the client’s new style while still incorporating the mementos of her sister into a fresh, positive style that was the client’s own. This example is design psychology at work. I could have come in and suggested changing colors, carpet, and furniture, but that isn’t a profound, emotional way of looking at a space and its purpose for the client. Looking at this project from a design psychology perspective, we could achieve the result of creating a harmonious feeling and successfully reclaiming a memory. With both residential and commercial designs, there is likely to be an emotional catalyst or an impending change driving them. To truly “nail” the vision of my client, I focus not only on trends and style but also look at the ways I can create the emotional responses clients’ truly want for a design that will go beyond the superficial.

Having kids in your home definitely affects your home décor decisions, but this impact doesn’t have to be negative. Keeping children in mind means considering how they’ll use the space differently than the adults in your home will. It is possible to combine the aesthetic appeal we crave along with the fun and entertaining elements that kids need. These ten design ideas demonstrate that a combination of kid-friendly design and beautiful aesthetic is easier to find than you think. Have Fun with Color When was the last time you heard anyone under the age of twelve say they were really hoping for a gray bedroom? Probably not ever. Kids love colors, so why not create some visual stimulation in your space with your children’s (or your) favorite colors. Adding color doesn’t mean you have to go crazy, nor does it mean you can’t return to a more muted palette as your children grow. Choose neutrals for larger purchases, like flooring and staple furniture, and save the colors for smaller, more temporary elements.     1. Frame windows with color. A simple, yet unexpected, way to add brightness is to use a vibrant color around windows. We love the pop of red in this family-friendly space. 2. Pillows and poofs are easy ways to add color, and they can be swapped frequently to change your space. 3. Adding color can be as simple as stacking colorful books and boxes on a desk. Once you start looking for opportunities to add color, the possibilities are endless. Create Kid-Friendly Storage The key to effective toy storage is making clean-up time easy. When you’re planning a space with kids in mind, it’s important not to ignore all their stuff—and they have a lot of stuff, don’t they? 4. Baskets are an easy way to conceal clutter, and these over-sized hiding places make it easy for kids to stash their belongings. 5. Collect similar items together and store them out in the open. A jar of crayons or a stack of board games make great accessories and even add some color. 6. Create a pretty “dump zone” near your primary entrance. Leaving space to drop bags, sports gear, and other items right when you walk in the door keeps clutter contained. Choose Art You Can All Love Art in our homes serves many purposes. It can cheer us up, inspire us, and remind us of places and people we love. Your kids should enjoy the art in your home too. There are many ways to give your children something they’ll enjoy while still maintaining your sense of style.   7. Keep art projects contained. Designate a space to display your children’s art, such as a specific spot on the wall, or a backdrop to a bookcase. 8. Make a place to create. A chalkboard wall is a great way to give your children a place to be creative. Their drawings are instantly on display, and the wall can be cleaned easily when the drawings become too cluttered. Chalkboards are also great for seasonal messages and inspiration that both children and adults can enjoy. 9. Animal art is great for children and adults. Find colorful drawings of your child’s favorite animal or even small sculptures to add personality to any space. Include Durable and Soft Places to Play While it may not seem like flooring is important to your children, it’s one of the most important decisions in kid-friendly design. Soft, stain-resistant carpet is perfect for playrooms and kids’ bedrooms. It absorbs sound and gives your children a comfortable, safe place to play. For areas of your home where you still want a beautiful hard surface floor, look for durability. The finish on a hardwood floor or the water resistance of a vinyl floor are all things to consider with little ones in your home.   10. For the beautiful look of hardwood and a floor that will stand up to play time, luxury vinyl floors come in both plank and tile styles. You may also hear them called LVT or LVP. These floors offer realistic visuals of hardwood and tile with added resistance to scratches and liquids.

From the runway to your home, these three fashion trends transcend the racks of department stores to become stable interior elements. Animal Print A style statement as old as time, this trend is certainly not new. But, this year, its reach will expand in such a way that industry experts are predicting a Great Animal Print Revival.     Leopard Print Throw Pillow by Nourison; Faux Cheetah Rug by Momeni; Exotic Armchair by Uttermost; Bigelow Prestige Carpet "Black Magic Static" by Carpet One Floor & Home High Shine From rich leather to supple silk to lustrous velvet, textiles are set to acquire high shine this coming season.   Faux Leather Chair and Accent Table by Uttermost; Area Rug by Kas; Table Lamp by Uttermost; Throw Pillow by Nourison; Runner by Couristan   Western Design heads west this winter, with cowboy style characterized by leather and hide, rustic metals and classic fringe. Area Rug by Momeni; Chair by Uttermost; Faux Hide Rug by Momeni; Western Art by Uttermost; Rustic River Hardwood "Albony Ridge" by Carpet One Floor & Home

Flooring Trends: From master suites to plush playrooms, carpet remains a staple in the home. Here's what's trending in the world of soft surface flooring this year. A Solid Shift A smart alternative to traditional solids, patterned and multi-colored carpets are definitely here to stay for 2018. Emphasizing the eclectic, current carpet trends call for patterns inspired by nature – from organic textures to vintage vines and trellises in sumptuous colors and tones.     Flooring (left to right): Longbranch by Bigelow, Break of Day by Tigressa, Bravura by Evans Black, 42nd Street by Lees Studio   Standout Shades The New Year will bring a rise in warmth to greys and taupes, while browns will take on naturally-derived tones that mimic the likes of untreated wood, leather and brass. The widespread realm of whites and creams will, of course, continue on strong in 2018, offering an ever-popular sense of sophistication to the home.     Flooring (left to right): Bravura by Evans Black, Bolero by Tigressa, Dreamstyle by Tigressa, Morning Line by Tigressa   Sumptuously Soft While strength and stain-protection have long been the name of the game for carpet, increasing levels of softness is where 2018 is taking us. Strands are softer and silkier than ever, all while offering maximum durability and the most advanced built-in stain protection homeowners have come to expect.     Flooring (left to right): Unconditional Style, Unconditional Trust, Unconditional Glee all by Innovia Dream, Columbus Circle II by Tigressa Cherish   From traditional hardwood to the latest in luxury vinyl and tile, the following three trends will dominate hard surface flooring this year.   Low Sheen Finishes Gloss be gone. This low-maintenance look is not only family-friendly, but falls in line with the more natural visuals in today's home.     Flooring (left to right): Jovial by Earthscapes, Farmington by Rustic River, Sundance by Rustic River, Elkins Hall by Laminate For Life   Dual Staining Why have one hue, when you can have two? Complimentary colors will be pairing this year to create rich, complex visual that add interest and dimension to a space.     Flooring (left to right): Asiago by Bel Terra, Hamilton Park by Rustic River, Dockside Oak by Laminate For Life, Batik by Earthscapes   Patterned Designs From mixed-width planks to beautifully intricate herringbone patterns, flooring installations will be anything but boring this year.   Flooring Patterns (left to right): Various Tile Sizing, Mixed-Width Planks, Herringbone, Basketweave   Original Article

You’re planning to perfect your space, and you want to make sure that the ENTIRE family is accommodated. Is accommodating all your four-legged family members an important part of the plan? You’re not alone. According to a recent survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association, it’s estimated that nearly 70% of American households include at least one pet.   When designing an ideal space where ALL members of the family can feel comfortable, it makes sense to start from the bottom. That means finding a floor that’s not only stylish and comfortable, but can handle the occasional puppy “accident.” While there used to be a time when it was challenging, if not impossible, to find pet-friendly flooring for all styles and tastes, those days, fortunately, are a relic of the past. Modern technology has hundreds of options to choose from, both hard-surface and soft-surface flooring.   Got your heart set on carpet, but the occupants of your home seem to have other plans? Whether you’re rooming with Fluffy and Fido - or the majority of household members are still learning their ABCs - you don’t have to compromise style for practicality. Appealing to homeowners from all walks of life, carpet remains an extremely popular choice for new homeowners and high-end consumers alike – and with good reason. Truly, there’s a carpet to fit everyone’s needs, including pet-lovers. We know accidents can happen: especially in multi-pet households. But you can take comfort in the fact that brands like Oath by Resista® offers revolutionary waterproof construction, is easy to clean, and is exceptionally durable. Among the other options is Relax, it's...Lees®, which features ground-breaking stain protection, ultra-durable construction, and an exclusive 25-Year NO Exclusions Stain Warranty.   Have you got your heart set on hardwood? That's OK! Just add an extra layer of protection with area rugs for rooms and carpet runner for stairs. Not only will this protect your hardwood against the daily wear and tear from your four-legged family members but can also provide some relief for elderly pets that might experience trouble with traction on hard surfaces. Like today's carpet, many area rugs offer built-in stain protection, and can be cleaned with ease. Speaking of hardwood, did you know that today’s luxury vinyl flooring products incorporate all the natural beauty of organic woods, without the accompanying hassle? Both Invincible H2O™ and Invincible XT™ offer some downright stunning options - whether your personal tastes lean towards classic or more contemporary. Invincible XT™ is a solidcore option featuring breakthrough technology for outstanding waterproof protection, durability, and high-end designer looks, while Invincible H20™ is 100% waterproof from top to bottom. Of course, flooring is only the beginning. The good news is, today’s designers are listening closely to the desires and needs of pet lovers. From furniture made to conceal animal hair, to cabinetry made to conceal water bowls and litter boxes, it’s easier than ever to make your living space truly feel like “home sweet home” for all.

Having kids in your home definitely affects your home décor decisions, but this impact doesn’t have to be negative. Keeping children in mind means considering how they’ll use the space differently than the adults in your home will. It is possible to combine the aesthetic appeal we crave along with the fun and entertaining elements that kids need. These ten design ideas demonstrate that a combination of kid-friendly design and beautiful aesthetic is easier to find than you think. Have Fun with Color When was the last time you heard anyone under the age of twelve say they were really hoping for a gray bedroom? Probably not ever. Kids love colors, so why not create some visual stimulation in your space with your children’s (or your) favorite colors. Adding color doesn’t mean you have to go crazy, nor does it mean you can’t return to a more muted palette as your children grow. Choose neutrals for larger purchases, like flooring and staple furniture, and save the colors for smaller, more temporary elements.   [gallery columns="2" link="file" size="medium" ids="23253,23254"] 1. Frame windows with color. A simple, yet unexpected, way to add brightness is to use a vibrant color around windows. We love the pop of red in this family-friendly space. 2. Pillows and poofs are easy ways to add color, and they can be swapped frequently to change your space. 3. Adding color can be as simple as stacking colorful books and boxes on a desk. Once you start looking for opportunities to add color, the possibilities are endless.   Create Kid-Friendly Storage The key to effective toy storage is making clean-up time easy. When you’re planning a space with kids in mind, it’s important not to ignore all their stuff—and they have a lot of stuff, don’t they?     4. Baskets are an easy way to conceal clutter, and these over-sized hiding places make it easy for kids to stash their belongings. 5. Collect similar items together and store them out in the open. A jar of crayons or a stack of board games make great accessories and even add some color. 6. Create a pretty “dump zone” near your primary entrance. Leaving space to drop bags, sports gear, and other items right when you walk in the door keeps clutter contained.   Choose Art You Can All Love Art in our homes serves many purposes. It can cheer us up, inspire us, and remind us of places and people we love. Your kids should enjoy the art in your home too. There are many ways to give your children something they’ll enjoy while still maintaining your sense of style. 7. Keep art projects contained. Designate a space to display your children’s art, such as a specific spot on the wall, or a backdrop to a bookcase. 8. Make a place to create. A chalkboard wall is a great way to give your children a place to be creative. Their drawings are instantly on display, and the wall can be cleaned easily when the drawings become too cluttered. Chalkboards are also great for seasonal messages and inspiration that both children and adults can enjoy. 9. Animal art is great for children and adults. Find colorful drawings of your child’s favorite animal or even small sculptures to add personality to any space.   Include Durable and Soft Places to Play While it may not seem like flooring is important to your children, it’s one of the most important decisions in kid-friendly design. Soft, stain-resistant carpet is perfect for playrooms and kids’ bedrooms. It absorbs sound and gives your children a comfortable, safe place to play. For areas of your home where you still want a beautiful hard surface floor, look for durability. The finish on a hardwood floor or the water resistance of a vinyl floor are all things to consider with little ones in your home. 10. For the beautiful look of hardwood and a floor that will stand up to play time, luxury vinyl floors come in both plank and tile styles. You may also hear them called LVT or LVP. These floors offer realistic visuals of hardwood and tile with added resistance to scratches and liquids.   View original article

An exclusive Q&A with interior designer Sara Bederman. What were your clients’ needs for this space? Our clients took on a very substantial renovation by adding a second story to the ranch style home. They also more than doubled the size of the home by adding a large addition to their home. With two young boys, we needed to plan a home that they could all grow in to over time. We planned amazing spaces in the home and then finished them with hard working, sensible and stylish finishes. Were there any challenges designing this space? The home has lower than average ceiling height so it was vital that we plan the interior with that in mind. As a result, we kept cabinetry lines more vertical to create a visual lift in the spaces. We also kept colors light and airy and made sure to add an abundance of recessed lighting to ensure the rooms were well washed with bright lighting. What’s one unique element of the design that works well in this space? Without a dedicated mud room in the home, the clients still wanted to capture the function of a personalized mud room storage concept.In response, we planned an amazing personal locker concept and placed it right in the front entry of their home. It is a beautiful design feature, complete with mirrored cabinet doors that open up to personal storage compartments. The mirrored doors add dimension to the otherwise narrow feeling space and the storage and organization provided by the cabinetry keeps the front hall free from clutter. Do you have any special considerations or requirements when creating a kitchen? I like to make sure that we plan the kitchen with far more storage and efficiency than our clients think they need. Once we are able to scale and plan the spaces, it is always amazing how much extra space is claimed when a kitchen is designed effectively. It is so exciting to go into our clients' homes a few months after they move in and still find kitchen cabinets that are empty! Empty cabinets are quite a luxury! How does the flooring play into your design? In this home, the client agreed to install hardwood throughout the main and second floor. All main spaces had hardwood flooring except the front entry which was a combination tile and stone design. The bedrooms were also finished with hardwood floor. As a result, they feel open and airy, clean and fresh. Area rugs are placed in each bedroom to subtly soften the spaces. Why did you choose these colors? The palette of this home includes soft and light warm neutrals.It is a peaceful palette that suited the transitional aesthetic preferred by our clients.The palette enhanced the original architecture of the home and lends itself to a lasting aesthetic that will not age or tire over time. What is your favorite aspect of this room? I love the large granite island in this kitchen. While I don’t specify granite frequently, it was the perfect finish for this family. The tones in the stone slab we sourced worked perfectly with their color palette, and the hard working nature of granite suited this busy family’s lifestyle perfectly. What did your client like the most? It is so hard to say. They seem to love it all! The home turned out better than their wildest dreams. They are very happy clients.

Flooring Installation System The first antimicrobial flooring installation system that inhibits allergens, dust, mildew and mold to improve the health of your home. Available exclusively at participating Carpet One Floor & Home stores. Not all installations are created equal. Ours is healthier. It's how we install. Beautiful Floors. A Cleaner, Healthier Home. Healthier Living® Flooring Installation System delivers antimicrobial protection for your flooring, minimizes dust, and inhibits allergens, mold growth and odors. Our exclusive installation system provides a superior level of care for you and your family, and is only available at Carpet One Floor & Home. Learn more. Watch the video on our unique installation process. Experience The Difference With HealthinEx® From HEPA vacuuming before and after installation, to treatment with HealthinEx® antimicrobial spray, you'll see the difference a Healthier Living Installation makes. Our HealthinEx® Antimicrobial Pre-Installation Treatment disinfects, sanitizes, protects and diminishes allergens, mold, mildew and bacteria in the installation area.   Meets Indoor Air & Surface® Quality Standards HealthinEx® Antimicrobial Treatment also limits surface area microorganisms from becoming airborne during installation, and preserves the home's indoor air quality for the duration of the installation. Combined with a HEPA filter vacuum during installation, these steps taken by our professional installers, will support better air quality in your home. Installation That Offers Peace-Of-Mind Standard installations can leave behind unhealthy bacteria, mildew and mold. In addition to delivering a healthier environment for you and your family, a Healthier Living Installation offers peace-of-mind with industry-leading guarantees. Receive protection for the Life of Your Floor* from bacteria growth, mold and mildew on your subfloor, plus a Double Wear Warranty* and Double Texture Warranty* on all carpet installed with our exclusive HealthinEx® cushion. *View our warranty guide for details.   We've Got Every Type of Floor Covered From carpet to hardwood to laminate to tile, Healthier Living® Flooring Installation System provides superior antimicrobial protection for every flooring choice. So take a deep breath and relax, because our exclusive Healthier Living Installation process inhibits dust, bacteria, mildew and mold for a cleaner, healthier home.

Qualifying Products & Terms Flooring products with a Titanium, Platinum, or Gold SelectAFloor™ warranty carry The Beautiful Guarantee®*. If after installation and during the timeframe allotted for The Beautiful Guarantee® should you wish to change your new flooring for a different SelectAFloor™ flooring in the same category (e.g. carpet or hardwood), but in a different style or color, your Carpet One Floor & Home® store will replace it free** with another SelectAFloor™ style or color of equal or lesser value. Should you wish to replace your flooring with a SelectAFloor™ upgrade (higher priced product) in the same flooring category (e.g. carpet or hardwood), you may do so by paying the difference in retail price. Any increase in cost due to industry price increases will be the consumer’s responsibility. No monetary compensation will be paid if a lower priced product is selected.   This is a one-time only replacement and does not include replacement of cushion. Simply call your Carpet One Floor & Home® retailer within the time frame of the warranty and indicate you wish to choose another SelectAFloor™ flooring of the same product category under The Beautiful Guarantee®. This is a replacement warranty and does not apply to matters covered by other warranties.   Replacement includes material and labor. Labor to move furniture, permanent construction (built-ins such as cabinets and bookcases), equipment, or electronics is the responsibility of the customer. This warranty applies to installations in owner occupied residential settings.   No replacement will be made with respect to carpet that has been glued down, flooring subjected to abuse, vandalism, alteration; or damage caused by smoke, fire, flood, wind, lightning, or any other casualty event. This warranty applies only to the original purchaser of a Carpet One Floor & Home® style flooring that has been professionally installed by a Carpet One Floor & Home® retailer or Carpet One Floor & Home® authorized independent installer.   *Area rugs and custom installations of any flooring installed with inserts or a border are excluded from The Beautiful Guarantee®. ** See store for details.       The Beautiful Guarantee® Timeframe By Warranty Type Titanium Series 120 Days Platinum Series 90 Days Gold Series 60 Days Silver Series Not Applicable Bronze Series Not Applicable

Bringing plants indoors is a great way to enjoy nature no matter the weather. Indoor plants provide a wide range of benefits including purifying the air as well as creating a peaceful atmosphere. Many plants also offer a lot of style and interest to a home as well. 1. Ficus Tree Any indoor plant that grows above 6 feet is bound to draw attention. Larger plants usually cost more than smaller ones making them a luxury. The Ficus Tree is one of those indoor plants that can quickly grow tall and add depth to a home. They are known for living a long time with the proper care and are commonly grown as a houseplant. Ficus Trees have an intertwining trunk that screams luxury and style. Place a few of these beauties on either side of an entryway, at the end of a long hallway, or even in the corner of a kitchen to create instant polish to a room. 2. Succulents These unique plants are known for their ability to hold water within their leaves making them incredibly low maintenance. Succulents vary in all shapes and sizes. Options include Hens & Chicks, a plant that produces small round shaped succulents that like to spread within a container. Other interesting options include the Panda Plant that offers fuzzy blue-grey leaves dotted with black spots on the edges. Succulents are happy to be left alone and offer a lot of interest and beauty to a space without getting too large. Place a lot of them around a home on coffee tables, bookshelves, and window sills in order to bring a touch of nature indoors. 3. Jade Pothos This beautiful dark green plant loves to climb and will do well in a totem planter. Jade Pothos is an easy houseplant to grow but also offers elegance and beauty with dark green heart-shaped leaves. This plant can also be grown in hanging baskets and will grow downward for a cascading effect. Consider placing a hanging basket of Jade Pothos in front of a single window to draw interest to space. 4. Citrus Tree The ultimate choice for a luxury indoor plant is one that will bear fruit indoors. Citrus trees are a perfect option for those upscale homeowners looking to add a “wow” factor to their home. These trees don’t grow very large and can bear fruit if hand pollinated. Choose from oranges, limes, or lemons to add instant color to your home as well as add a fresh squeeze of juice to a cocktail. Citrus trees will need watering and lots of light. 5. Cactus If you’re looking for a stylish and more offbeat plant for the home, consider choosing a cactus. This super low maintenance plant is being featured in more and more homes thanks to its need for little attention. Grow a cactus in a large pot placed on the floor or choose a smaller variety to set as a centerpiece or on a mantle. Place a cactus in a room with bright light to cater to its natural desert landscapestyle. Choose from many different varieties that can grow tall, wide, or stay small to fit your room’s needs. There are plenty of plants that can be grown indoors to add instant interest to a room. Consider adding any one of these plants to your newly styled room to add natural beauty, color, and form. Any of these plants are a must have for luxe-looking décor and would do well in raising the overall level of a room.