A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 1
A PUBLICATION OF EDMOND LIFE & LEISURE
Page 2
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 3
Page 4
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
Letter from the Publisher Welcome to At Home in Edmond
Thank you for taking the time to view Edmond’s only locally owned and operated magazine. If you are new to our publication, it will quickly become clear that we are about all things Edmond. Our staff and ownership are uniquely qualified to inform you on what is happening in our community. The last two years have been difficult for many small businesses here in Edmond. We are proud to serve as the only locally owned and printed newspaper in Edmond. Not only has Edmond Life & Leisure survived its competitors over the last 22 years but we are solid and ready to serve our Edmond community for the next 22 years.We thank our readers and especially our advertisers for their support in making all of it possible. Our customers are our friends and partners in all things Edmond. If you are searching for a home in the Edmond area, it is important to know if you are purchasing your home within Edmond city limits. “I have an Edmond address,” folks have told us over the years when they really did not. Many homes have an Edmond address, but it doesn’t necessarily mean they are within our city limits. We get asked this question around election time at our newspaper office. Folks will call asking how can I tell if I’m eligible to vote in the Edmond city elections. We developed a rather sophisticated way to let folks know. We ask them, “What color are your garbage cans?” The first thing you hear on the phone is silence. The next thing you hear is usually, “What?” I know it is weird but the sure fire, fool proof way to know you live in Edmond city limits is this: If your main trash cans are green, you live in Edmond. However, if your main trash cans are blue, you live in the city limits of Oklahoma City. Problem solved. This spring and summer is an exciting time in Edmond. There are many upcoming activities for you and your family to enjoy, even if you live outside of Edmond. You may not be able to vote in Edmond city elections, but you are more than welcome to come experience the quality of life we enjoy in our community. I must thank our staff from advertising, production and the news room for all their hard work. Creating a beautiful, glossy magazine can be challenging when you put out a weekly newspaper and have all the deadlines that go with it. Our staff has risen to the challenge and worked hard to produce a quality magazine that Edmond can enjoy. We also thank our many loyal advertisers and welcome the new advertisers for their support of Edmond At Home.
Ray Hibbard Publisher Edmond Life & Leisure At Home in Edmond Magazine
PUBLISHER
Ray Hibbard
EDITOR
Deanne York
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rose Drebes Staff writers
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Deanne York
ADVERTISING
Alexx Harms Advertising Director For information on advertising in At Home in Edmond, call 405-340-3311
READER SERVICES
107 South Broadway Edmond OK 73034 Phone 405-340-3311 Fax 405-340-3384
WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA
edmondlifeandleisure.com @edmondlifeandleisure
Norwalk Furniture
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 5
Norwalk Furniture is a unique “I think a pair of ottomans you can always love – things I gravitate tocollaboration between two talented tuck in front of a fireplace or under a ward. Every room needs something designers, Cindy Curley and Ryan console table provides function and Asian. It transcends styles and kind Johnson, who have shared their imwhimsy,” Curley says. of gives the room some interest. I almaculate design expertise ways lean toward tailored with clients for more than textiles. For instance, a two decades. pinstripe will go with Their clientele expects anything without being the exquisite and the stuffy.” team at Norwalk is dedJohnson said part of icated to delivering just design is like solving that. Curley and Johnson a puzzle, while Curley strive to give each client embraces the fashion-forunique, personalized ward nature of interior solutions to their design design. needs, whether they’re Every piece of furniture simply replacing a rug offered by Norwalk is or redesigning an entire custom, made unique by home. that magical chemistry Cindy Curley Ryan Johnson Curley enjoys the design that can only occur when process and feels that breathing Johnson agrees. “Every home is talented designers and imaginative new life into a living space can be as unique, and every client is unique” clientele come together and create simple as making one well-thoughthe says. “They all bring different as they do every single day under out tweak. aesthetics. But I have things that I the guidance of Curley and Johnson.
Page 6
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
20
8 14
Contents
24
4 LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER 8 ASSISTED STRETCHING 10 UPGRADE YOUR LANDSCAPE 12 SIGNS IT IS TIME TO OVERHAUL YOUR
18 UP WITH TREES 20 CARING FOR PERENNIALS 21 PROTECT BIRDS IN YOUR BACKYARD 22 COLOR THEORY HOME INTERIOR PAINT
14 POPULAR KITCHEN FLOORING
24 POPULAR COLORS FOR 2022 25 REVAMP LIVING AREAS 26 CONVERTING AN ATTIC 30 ADVERTISER‘S INDEX
KITCHEN
MATERIALS
16 THE PROS AND CONS OF IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
17 SIGNS OF DROUGHT STRESS AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT
OPTIONS
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 7
Page 8
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
Assisted Stretching By Rose Drebes Flexibility is not a stretch of the imagination at the StretchLab in Edmond. The business which offers assisted stretching is owned by Tavia Jackson and April Jorgensen. Katrina Myers is the general manager. Myers said the benefits of stretching are many, including improving posture and sports performance, reducing stress and muscle and joint pain and increasing range of motion and flexibility. Assisted stretching is different from yoga in that someone is holding the client in that position, although the practice does employ some of the same breathing techniques and poses. Edmond’s StretchLab employs eight flexologists who have completed 60-70
hours of intense training. The flexologists first tested to qualify for the training, Myers said. Twenty hours of hands-on practice with other flexologists followed the training. At the StretchLab clients can take part in one-on-one or group stretching sessions. Myers said the one-on-one stretches are available in 25- or 50-minute increments. The group stretches are let by a flexologist who guides clients through a series of stretches and teaches proper stretch tool use. Myers said new clients first undergo a needs analysis. “We do that to determine what their goals are and how we can achieve
them,” she said. StretchLab’s new clients also take a digital imaging assessment where they do movements in front of a screen. “This helps us build a plan for what they need,” she said. A fairly new service, Myers said the StretchLab has been met with great acclaim. One client is an older man who wants to be competitive on the golf course. “It is really about self-care,” she said. Edmond’s StretchLab is located at 1389 E. 15 St. in the Spring Creek shopping center. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, call (405) 5881212 or visit stretchlab.com.
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 9
Page 10
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
Upgrade Your Landscape
An inviting, well-tended landscape can add significant curb appeal to a home. Such a landscape also can serve as a point of pride and welcome homeowners each evening as they arrive home from work. Landscaping projects run the gamut from simple changes that can be accomplished on a weekend afternoon to more significant and costly undertakings that require the work of a professional. Budget-conscious homeowners may be looking for simpler projects, and the following are some less costly ways to upgrade a landscape. • Add a pop of color with planters. Awe-inspiring colors can make a landscape stand out from surrounding properties. Flowers, bushes and plants may be the first thing homeowners consider when trying to add color to their lawns, but planters can provide a more immediate way to give exterior grounds
some color. Bold planters won’t lose their color in a matter of weeks like many flowers do, and homeowners can switch planters so the colors align with the season. For example, some pastel planters can evoke the spirit of spring, while orange planters can be filled with mums to give a landscape an autumnal feel. • Plant perennials around the property. Well-maintained perennials grow back each year, making them ideal for homeowners who don’t have the time or desire to map out new gardening arrangements each spring. Planting perennials also is a great way to add color around the property without breaking the bank. • Upgrade walkways. Though it’s more expensive than adding planters and planting perennials, upgrading old and cracked walkways is a great way to give a property a whole new look. According to the renovation experts at HomeAdvisor, homeowners typically pay between $6 and $12 per square foot for new concrete walkway installation. Homeowners working on a budget can target spots where walkways have already cracked and fix those areas first before continuing the project piecemeal until all the old walkways have been replaced. • Plant to create privacy. Homeowners spent more time at home than ever before during the pandemic, and some might have grown tired of seeing what their neighbors are up to. Fencing might be the first solution homeowners consider when looking to make their landscapes more private. But new fencing installation can be expensive, costing homeowners between $1,667 and $4,075 on average, according to BobVila. com. A more costly and natural solution is to plant trees around the perimeter. Speak with a local landscaping professional, who can survey the property to see which trees might thrive and provide the privacy homeowners want. Creating an inviting landscape doesn’t have to break the bank. Various small and relatively inexpensive projects can change the look and feel of a home’s exterior.
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 11
Page 12
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
Signs it is time to overhaul your kitchen Remodeling a kitchen adds value to a home. Remodeling Magazine’s “Cost vs. Value Report” indicates midrange kitchen remodels cost about $66,000, and homeowners can expect to recover about 60 to 80 percent of that cost at resale. Homeowners may wonder if remodeling their kitchens is worth the investment. But homeowners should not just consider cost, but also the current conditions of their kitchens when deciding if a renovation project is the right move to make. These signs indicate it may be time to renovate a kitchen. • Breakers are triggered: If the lights go dark from a tripped circuit breaker every time you try to microwave and run the toaster oven at the same time, your wiring is likely not up to the task of handling the workload and could be out of date. A kitchen remodel will assess wiring load needs and an electric overhaul may be necessary. • Lack of storage: One of the biggest hassles homeowners encounter in their kitchens is a lack of storage space. If making a meal involves a Jenga-like stacking and rearranging of kitchen tools, or if an avalanche occurs whenever you search for an item, you might need more storage. A carefully planned redesign can achieve this, even in a smaller kitchen. • Outdated appliances: Even if your appliances are not avocado green or mustard yellow relics of the 1970s, they might still need to be replaced. According to CRD
Design, appliances are only expected to last around 10 to 15 years. If appliances have become unsafe or energy hogs, it could be time for a remodel. • Family is expanding (or shrinking): Kitchens often are the heart of a home. They need to meet the needs of the family that resides in that home. A remodel can add space as needed. On the flip side, when a couple becomes empty nesters, kitchens can be redesigned and downsized to reflect their new needs and desires, such as the addition of a wine chiller or espresso station. • Poor lighting: Task lighting is essential in a kitchen, but older homes may not be equipped with lighting where it’s most needed. A carefully designed remodel can improve lighting with under-cabinet lights, pendants, overhead lighting, and even natural light to make the space attractive and more functional. • Frequent run-ins: The notion that you can have too many cooks in the kitchen refers to having too many people trying to pitch in or offer their opinions. However, it also can apply to when too many people are gathering in a small space. Redesigning a kitchen can improve the efficiency of a space and make the room feel larger. • Aesthetic appeal: Many kitchen remodels have been inspired by unsightly kitchens. Cosmetic changes can lead to big improvements. Kitchen renovations can add instant appeal and help address issues that tend to plague outdated rooms.
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 13
Page 14
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
Popular kitchen flooring materials Kitchens have long been considered the most popular gathering spaces in a home. That popularity compels millions of homeowners to renovate their kitchens each year, and the return on those investments is often significant. A number of variables, including the value of neighboring homes and how quickly homeowners sell their homes after a renovation, affect the return on investment with a given project. According to Remodeling magazine’s “2021 Cost vs. Value Report,” homeowners recouped roughly 72 percent of their investment in a minor kitchen remodel at resale. That’s a sizable return that outperformed other popular upgrades, including vinyl siding replacement and wood deck additions. When renovating kitchens, homeowners will have to consider various components within the room, including the floors. Average flooring costs can be hard to calculate because they depend so heavily on homeowners’ choice of materials. The following are some popular flooring materials that homeowners can consider as they
plan to renovate their kitchens. • Vinyl: Vinyl flooring is popular thanks in large part to its cost. According to the home remodeling experts at HomeAdvisor, vinyl flooring installation is much less costly than other types of flooring. But its budget-friendliness is not the only benefit of vinyl flooring, which HGTV notes is easy to clean, making it an ideal choice for families that routinely confront spills and stains. HomeAdvisor notes that vinyl is the best waterproof material among all kitchen floors. • Porcelain/ceramic tile: HomeAdvisor reports that the average cost to install porcelain or ceramic tile flooring is between $885 and $2,994. That’s less than the average cost to install stone or wood flooring. Porcelain or ceramic tiles can be slippery when they get wet, though HGTV notes that some porcelain flooring tiles have been certified as slip-resistant by the Americans with Disabilities Act. • Hardwood: It’s hard to beat hardwood when it comes to aesthetic appeal. Hardwood can be especially suitable in homes with open-concept
floor plans that already have hardwood floors in surrounding rooms. HomeAdvisor notes that hardwood flooring installation can be costly, which might make it a less realistic option for budget-conscious homeowners. According to HGTV, engineered wood planks may be something to consider in the kitchen, as these are designed to be less susceptible to humidity and temperature. That’s an important component to consider in the kitchen, where temperatures can fluctuate while meals are being prepared. • Stone: Natural stone tile is another popular kitchen flooring material. HomeAdvisor traces that popularity to its wide variety of styles and price points, which make it a realistic option for homeowners working with budgets big and small. Stone tiles also provide a unique look because no two look the same, which might appeal to homeowners who want their kitchen floors to create a one-of-a-kind impression. Kitchen flooring materials vary widely. That variety ensures there’s a material for any style and budget homeowners are working with.
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 15
Page 16
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
The pros and cons of irrigation systems
Maintaining a lush, green lawn and thriving landscape that includes shrubbery, flowers and trees requires time, money and often some sweat equity. However, the beauty that results from such effort compels many homeowners to take on the landscaping challenge. Forgetting to water the greenery or getting hit with a drought can cause a lawn to deteriorate rapidly. An irrigation system may seem like a smart investment, but homeowners should weigh the pros and cons of such systems before having one installed. Irrigation systems are installed to protect landscaping so plants can thrive year-round. Irrigation systems come in various forms, from sprinkler to drip to surface irrigation systems. No system is necessarily better than another. That’s because each is designed to address specific watering needs. Here’s a look at various irrigation systems and the pros and cons of each. Sprinkler system Sprinklers are popular because they tend to be very affordable and easy to set up. Manual sprinkler systems utilize a hose and sprinkler head, while automatic systems are programmed and do all the work once they’re installed. Sprinklers cover a lot of ground and can irrigate large spaces quickly. However, that same benefit can be a disadvantage as well. Sprinklers are indiscriminate in their watering, sometimes hitting pavement or driveways. Also, the Gardening Channel says that water from sprinklers is lost due to evaporation on hot, windy days. In fact, as much
as 80 percent of the water used may not make it onto the grass or plants. Surface irrigation system Sometimes called gravity irrigation, these systems use channels or furrows throughout the cultivation area. Once the water runs through these channels, gravity distributes it accordingly. Surface irrigation systems require minimal effort but are best suited for farms and commercial enterprises because they require a large reservoir or pond to accumulate water. Also, uneven terrains could divert the water. Drip irrigation system This type of irrigation system is used primarily in arid regions. It is made up of lateral lines of flexible or rigid polyethylene pipe. Drip irrigation allows homeowners to focus watering on a particular garden area. It provides moisture directly to the soil. Therefore, there is no water waste from runoff or evaporation. Drip irrigation waters plants slowly and can cause less soil erosion and reduce
nutrient leeching. While easier and more effective than some other irrigation methods over the long haul, a drip irrigation system has a substantial startup cost. In addition, the system can get clogged at times. When gardening season is finished, a drip irrigation system will need to be drained and dismantled. Irrigation systems can help care for plants and lawns. However, they can be costly and some require significant maintenance. Weather and pests also can reduce the effectiveness of yard irrigation systems by damaging equipment or directing water in directions homeowners did not intend. Customers are urged to do their research regarding which system, if any, is best for their properties.
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 17
Signs of drought stress and what to do about it A pristine lawn is a source of pride for homeowners. Even the most well-maintained lawns must confront a host of challenges in a given year, and perhaps no challenge is more daunting than drought. Homeowners may feel helpless when drought strikes and begins to transform their lawns from green sources of pride to off-color eyesores. However, learning to identify signs of drought stress and what to do about it can help homeowners get their lawns through dry periods. Signs of drought stress The lawn care experts at TruGreen note that there are four common characteristics of drought stress. Perhaps the most noticeable is changes in color, but it’s important that homeowners recognize there’s a difference between a change in hue and a change in color. When a lawn changes its hue, typically turning from bright green to a dull gray or blue green color, it is in what TruGreen identifies as the first stage of drought stress. Regular watering, if
it’s allowed (local drought restrictions may dictate how much water can be applied to the lawn), can help the grass regain its moisture and the lawn may recover within a couple of days. When lawns change from green to brown, this is indicative that the lawn is in a dormancy stage. At this point, the lawn is entering survival mode. Watering to save the lawn will need to be more extensive. Deep and repeated watering for two to three weeks may help restore the lawn, but some parts ultimately may not recover. And deep watering may not be allowed until drought restrictions are lifted, increasing the likelihood that a significant portion of the lawn turns brown. Footprints in the lawn are another sign of drought stress TruGreen indicates that this is a result of lawns that are too tired to spring back up after they have been walked on. Wilting also indicates drought stress is affecting the lawn. Wilting occurs when grass blades roll or fold because they don’t have sufficient
Digital Color Brochures Business Cards Letterhead Offset Printing Spiral Binding and much more!
water content. What to do about drought stress In addition to the watering techniques noted above, homeowners can try other strategies to help their lawns make it through a drought. TruGreen advises against mowing drought-stressed grass and keeping off the lawn as much as possible. Removing tall weeds is another strategy homeowners can try. Doing so ensures the grass, and not the weeds, gets what little water is available during a drought. Homeowners also should resist the temptation to mow too close, especially when signs of drought stress are just beginning to appear. TruGreen notes that mowing too close creates a shallow root system that makes lawns more vulnerable to drought. It can be hard to watch a pristine lawn suffer from drought stress. But several strategies can increase the likelihood that lawns survive such conditions. More information about combatting drought can be found at www.trugreen.com.
Monday - Friday | 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
405.348.0066
3120 South Boulevard Edmond, Oklahoma 73013 csr@reidprint.com | reidprint.com
Making You Look Professional in Print.
Up with trees
Page 18
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
How to pick the right trees for your property Trees benefit a landscape by serving both aesthetic and utilitarian functions. A home surrounded by healthy green trees can be a sight to behold, and those same trees can benefit surrounding plants and wildlife at the same time. As appealing as trees are, not all trees and landscapes make for the perfect match. The Arbor Day Foundation notes the importance of planning when designing a landscape. Planning ensures the trees homeowners ultimately choose for their properties will grow well in the soil and moisture present in their yards. Careful consideration of a handful of variables can help homeowners determine which trees will make the best fit for their properties. • Height: Homeowners must consider the projected height of a tree before planting it. Avoid trees that will bump into anything when fully grown, as that can adversely affect
surrounding greenery and pose a safety hazard. The ADF’s tree sizing guide can be accessed at https:// www.arborday.org/trees/rightTreeAndPlace/size.cfm and serves as an invaluable resource for homeowners who want to plant new trees around their properties. • Canopy spread: Trees grow out as well as up, so it’s important to consider their potential width at maturity as well. The ADF sizing guide can help homeowners get an idea of how wide a tree is likely to be at maturity. Trees that spread out quite a bit don’t necessarily need to be avoided, but it’s important that they’re planted far enough apart so they don’t adversely affect surrounding plants. In addition, wide trees that are planted too close together can make the landscape appear crowded, taking something away from its aesthetic appeal. • Growth rate: Growth rate is an important variable because it
can affect how quickly homeowners will see changes in their landscapes. Homeowners who want to plant for privacy can consider trees with quick growth rates or purchase more mature trees that are already near full growth. Those who are not in need of instant transformation can try trees with slower growth rates, which the ADF notes typically live longer than fast-growing species. • Requirements: Different trees require different amounts of sun and moisture and different soil components to thrive. Homeowners can have their soil tested to determine which trees will thrive in it. Local garden centers can be a great resource for homeowners who want insight as to which trees will thrive in their local climates. Trees serve many functions on a property. Choosing the right trees for a landscape requires careful consideration of a host of variables.
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 19
Page 20
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
Caring for perennials Perennials can add color and vibrancy to any garden. One of the more desirable components of perennials is that they come back year after year, meaning homeowners do not have to invest in a gardenful of new flowers every year. That can add up to considerable savings. Perennials often form the foundation of beautiful gardens. Annuals only grow for one season, produce seeds and then die. However, perennials die back to the ground every autumn and their roots survive the winter. So the plants reemerge in the spring, according to The Farmer’s Almanac. Some perennials are shortlived, meaning they will come back a few consecutive years; others will last for decades. Though planted perennials require less maintenance than annuals, they are not completely maintenance-free. Certain care is needed to help perennials thrive, and that starts with the soil. In fact, soil is the single most
important factor for growing healthy plants. Penn State Extension says most perennials grow ideally in well drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. In addition, organic matter can improve soil texture and water-holding ability. When including perennials in the garden, make sure you wait for the right time to plant them. The ideal time is during the spring or fall. Perennials come as container-grown perennials, which already have been established in the soil. Bare-root perennials are just roots that are often packed in peat moss. In order to plant bare-root perennials, soak the roots in water for several minutes before gently planting in the ground, indicates the how-to resource Tip Bulletin. Perennials should be watered deeply, especially during the first growing season. However, the soil should never be overly dry or wet. Most perennials do not need to be fertilized heavily. A single application in the spring typical-
ly is all that’s needed. Care along the way can include deadheading spent flowers so that plants can use their energy on seed production and reblooming. Perennials should be divided when they grow large, every three to four years when the plants are not in bloom. Perennials produce fewer flowers or may look sickly when the time has passed to divide them. Early spring often is a good time to divide perennials, advises The Farmer’s Almanac. A thick layer of mulch can help perennials to overwinter successfully. Perennials planted in containers will need to be transplanted into the garden before it gets cold because most containers cannot thoroughly insulate perennial roots. Apart from these strategies, perennials pretty much take care of themselves. As long as sunlight requirements match plant needs, the perennials should thrive.
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure your kids about how birds are not just beautiful, but also a vital part of the ecosystem and how you are offering these creatures a chance to rest and refuel. Fill your finished products with birdseed and choose a safe spot to hang them. Experts recommend bird feeders be positioned either closer than three feet or farther than 30 feet from windows. Protect Flight Birds in flight are prone to strike windows. Fortunately, there’s an easy home project you and your children can complete together that will help prevent this from happening. Applying decals that reflect ultraviolet sunlight to your home’s windows, particularly windows that are highly reflective of open sky, has been proven to substantially reduce the likelihood of bird strikes. Those from WindowAlert fea-
Protect Birds in Your Backyard Part of being a good environmental steward is passing on this wisdom to the next generation. Here are three hands-on ways parents and grandparents can teach children to protect the birds in their very own backyard. Build a Bird Feeder Build bird feeders using natural or recycled materials to teach two earth-friendly lessons in one: the importance of reducing waste and the need to take care of local wildlife. Bird feeders can be crafted from milk cartons, tin cans, mason jars or even natural materials like pinecones. As you decorate your bird feeders, talk to
Page 21
ture patterns that give the appearance of slightly frosted translucent glass, but glow like a stoplight for birds. Kids can help select from fun decal designs like snowflakes, butterflies and maple leaves. The brand also makes a hightech UV liquid that offers even greater protection when applied between decals. To learn more, visit WindowAlert.com. Keep a Log Now that you’ve invited birds to your yard and have taken steps to protect them, inspire young naturalists to keep a log of flying visitors. Kids can draw pictures of the birds they see and note their observations. Visit Audubon for Kids at audubon.org for a birding guide, activities, games and additional projects that can help kids learn to identify various bird species by sight and sound. “Environmental stewardship starts in your own backyard and people of all ages can get involved, including kids,” says Spencer Schock, founder of WindowAlert. “The good news is that turning your home into a refuge for birds is fun, easy, and something parents, grandparents and kids can work on together.” StatePoint
Page 22
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
Color Theory
home interior paint options
Many components combine to define a home’s interior. Some homeowners may be partial to certain styles, such as ultra modern or farmhouse, while others may opt for a more traditional look that cannot necessarily be categorized as one style or another. Though many homeowners may spend considerable time and devote a lot of energy to making their home embody a certain style, those who aren’t willing to commit to a particular look can lean on one component to make a stylish statement all their own: paint. Color can be a part of every homeowner’s design arsenal. Bold colors can be used to create a stunning accent wall, while homes with open concepts often utilize color to define rooms. Homeowners who want to revitalize their home interiors can do so with paint, and this approach doesn’t require homeowners to commit to a whole new design style. Though paint may seem simple to novices, homeowners who have painted home interiors in the past recognize how complicated the process of picking paint can be. Paint
retailers have a seemingly endless swatch of paint colors to choose from, and before long homeowners heads may be spinning as they try to narrow down their options. The following tips can help homeowners pick the perfect paint for their home interiors. • Take stock, and photographs, of your current furnishings. Many interior designers rely on a simple technique when recommending color schemes to their clients. Choose a standout color from existing furnishings, such as the dominant color from a patterned decorative pillow or piece of furniture, and then look for the same shade to paint the walls. A photograph of the item can be handy when visiting the paint store. • Lighten colors as you go up. The home renovation and design experts at HGTV recommend picking darker color values for the floor, medium color values for the walls and light values for the ceiling. This approach mimics the look of the great outdoors, where the ground tends to be darker than the trees, and the trees are darker than the blue sky.
• Utilize paint to create the vibe you want. The home renovation experts at This Old House note that colors evoke an emotional response. Cool colors like blue and green give off a relaxing vibe, which makes them ideal for bedrooms and bathrooms. Red is an intense color that can up the energy ante in any room, which can make it an option for homeowners who want to spark debate around their dinner tables. • Give personal preference its place at the table. Though interior designers may have years of experience picking paint colors for a home and researchers may have determined how certain colors can be utilized to create a desired ambiance in a given room, ultimately homeowners are the ones who will be living in the home. So it’s important that homeowners pick colors they like for their home interiors. Paint is an inexpensive way to transform a room. Homeowners can rely on a combination of color strategies and their personal preferences as they try to decide which colors they want on their interior walls.
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 23
Page 24
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
Popular colors for 2022
Home design trends come and go. The fleeting nature of such trends can make it hard for homeowners to commit to a particular style, especially if they want their home decor to stay as current as possible. Paint provides one way to stay current and refresh a home’s interior without investing in new furniture and home accessories. Paint trends change, but these colors are already making the rounds in 2022. • Very Peri: Very Peri is the Pantone® 2022 Color of the Year. A brand new shade of blue, Very Peri was designed to rekindle some of the qualities that the color blue represents while simultaneously complementing a modern perspective. The home design pros at HGTV recommend pairing Very Peri with neutrals like taupes and creams or deeper shades like navy or brown. • Evergreen Fog: The paint experts at Sherwin-Williams note that this shade of green is symbolic of nature and a color associated with revitalization and growth. Those character-
istics make it great for homeowners who are looking to create a new beginning with their home interiors, particularly in relaxing spaces like living rooms and bedrooms. • Breezeway: Breezeway from Behr® is another popular color that provides a soft look. Breezeway is the Behr® Color of the Year for 2022 and is described as a silvery green shade with cool undertones. Behr® touts the versatility of Breezeway, which the company indicates inspires awe in bedrooms, living rooms or hallways. Breezeway pairs well with creamy white, taupe, softened black, and nuanced pink. • Gilded Linen: Gilded Linen from Valspar® is ideal for homeowners who want a color to organize and connect spaces throughout their homes. Gilded Linen is a minimalist white that mixes well with natural elements like wood and greenery. The soft tone of Gilded Linen makes it suitable in a variety of rooms, which is one reason why it’s so popular in homes with open floor plans.
Revamp living areas Home improvement projects require substantial financial investment. But just because a homeowner wants to bring a fresh look indoors doesn’t mean he or she has to break the bank along the way. Living rooms are some of the most frequently used spaces in a home, and they can use an update from time to time to stay on trend or to make the area more functional for a changing family dynamic. Here are some budget-friendly ideas for breathing new life into living room designs. • Establish the budget. Homeowners should figure out how many dollars they can designate to a living room makeover before purchasing supplies or hiring out the work. Figure out the scope of the remodel, visit stores or suppliers to price out materials, get estimates from contractors, and then plan for some unforseen circumstances along the way to determine if this type of renovation is affordable. If not, scale things back until the project more closely aligns with your budget. • Change the paint color. Lighter and brighter colors are on trend. A can or two of paint can do wonders for updating a space without a large financial commitment. Pair that new paint color with new window coverings and complementary throw pillows to pull the theme together with minimal expense. • Update the flooring. Tired, outdated carpeting or other flooring can use an overhaul. While solid hardwood flooring may be preferable, there are many types of laminate flooring that mimic the looks of popular wood colors and styles for a fraction of the cost. Plus, many are sold at home improvement retailers and even at warehouse clubs or online for reasonable prices. Laminate flooring also may be a potential DIY job for a skilled homeowner, saving even more money. • Introduce a fireplace. Fireplaces were once hot commodities, but that popularity waned in the 1970s and 1980s. Homeowners with chimneys may discover a fireplace was boarded over and the bare bones still exist that can be renovated to bring back character. There also are ventless freestanding units that are quite affordable that can mimic the look of a built-in fireplace. • Improve lighting. Another easy and often inexpensive fix is to change lighting fixtures, including using brighter, more energy efficient LED bulbs, and to assess lighting needs to eliminate dark corners of rooms that can make the space seem drab. Living room spaces in need of an update often can benefit from improvements that go easy on the wallet.
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 25
Page 26
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
Converting an attic
factors to consider
At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many homeowners suddenly found themselves in need of more usable square footage in their homes. Required to work from home due to social distancing recommendations, millions of working professionals suddenly found themselves setting up shop at kitchen tables or islands, in alcoves, garages, or even walk-in closets. Those makeshift offices were never supposed to be permanent, but as companies loosen workplace policies and embrace full remote or hybrid working arrangements, professionals are seeking more permanent home office solutions. Home additions are a possibility for homeowners who need more usable square footage, but addons may not be the right option for everyone. If adding on won’t work, homeowners may want to
look up ... at their attics. Attics with ample space can make for ideal home offices, as they’re away from the hustle and bustle of a home’s main floor. That can make it easier to concentrate when everyone is in the house and reduce the likelihood that video calls with colleagues and clients will be interrupted by kids and pets. Attic conversions are not always possible, and the following are three important factors homeowners may need to consider before they can go forward with such projects. 1. Dimensions: Both the renovation experts at This Old House and the real estate experts at UpNest indicate that at least half of a finished attic must be a minimum of seven feet high and seven feet wide and 70 square feet. Requirements may differ depending
on where homeowners live, but that 7-7-70 guideline is generally the minimum requirement. An attic that fails to meet such requirements won’t necessarily be a lost cause, but it might be costly to make adjustments that ultimately align with local codes. 2. Access: Access is another aspect that must adhere to local safety guidelines. Many attics are accessible only through pulldown ladders, but that will have to change if homeowners repurpose their attic spaces. A staircase that complies with local laws will need to be installed, and contractors can work with homeowners to build that and estimate the cost. Homeowners who simply want to put desks in their attics without going with full-fledged conversions are urged to adhere to local access requirements anyway, as they’re continued on Page 28
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 27
Page 28
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
Attic conversion
continued from Page 26
intended to ensure residents can safely escape attics in the case of a fire or another emergency. 3. Climate control: Attics are converted to provide residents with more livable space. Converted space is only livable if the climate within the attic can be controlled so it’s cool in the summer and warm in the winter. An existing HVAC unit needs to efficiently heat and cool an extra room. If it can’t, bills might spike because the rest of the home likely won’t be as comfortable, forcing homeowners to adjust thermostats to offset that discomfort.
That also could affect the unit’s life expectancy. Before going forward with an attic renovation, homeowners should contact HVAC professionals to determine if attic spaces can be serviced with the existing units and ductwork, or if an alternative arrangement must be worked out to make the spaces livable. Attic conversions can be great ways to make existing spaces more livable. Homeowners considering such projects should pay attention to three important variables as they try to determine if attic conversions will work for them.
“That is one good thing about this world... There are always sure to be more springs.”L.M. Montgomery
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 29
Page 30
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
Advertiser ‘s Index
Amini’s Galleria...................................................................3 Bachles by the fire.............................................................13 Brent Gibson Classic Home Design.....................................7 Citizens Bank of Edmond...................................................11 City of Edmond Water Conservation................................31 City of Edmond Hazardous Waste....................................21 Downtown Edmond Business Association.........................17 Edmond Electric................................................................29 Edmond Furniture Gallery.................................................32 Edmond Life TV................................................................25 Edmond Optical................................................................24 Framin Gallery...................................................................28
Fillmore & Chambers Design Group....................................2 Garage Innovations...........................................................30 Gary Baccus - State Farm..................................................28 Integris Health Edmond....................................................15 Ken Chambers Design/Build...............................................9 Matthews Funeral Home..................................................24 Norwalk Furniture & Design...............................................5 RCB Bank..........................................................................21 Reid Printing......................................................................17 Shop Edmond....................................................................27 TLC Garden Center............................................................19 Visit Edmond.....................................................................23
A Publication of Edmond Life & Leisure
Page 31
Page 32
At Home in Edmond Spring 2022
