Homes Etc. by Santa Maria Times

A Supplement of Lee Central Coast Newspapers

Adding a basement to your home Digging down is a great way to add space and value to your home. However, when undertaking this type of renovation project, it’s always best to trust a foundation professional. They’ll build an addition or extend your existing crawl space to add an entirely new and functional basement to your home.

2 September 25, 2016 / Homes etc. / Lee Central Coast Newspapers

Once the soil, foundation and weight of your home have been assessed, a structural engineer can determine the best technique to use to construct the basement. Most single-family houses can be lifted using a hydraulic system and steel piles without causing damage or cracks to the

structure. This method will increase the amount of natural lighting in your basement while reducing the risk of water infiltration. Underpinning or lowering a basement might be preferable for older homes with solid masonry construction. This approach involves digging under the existing foundation while shoring up the structure using adjustable support columns to lower the floor. While in itself an impressive sight, it’s important to know that underpinning is usually more expensive than simply lifting your home. It’s important to be thorough when choosing the right licenced and experienced professional for your renovation. The foundation is the most important part of your home and any damage to it could affect its overall structural integrity. So don’t hesitate to ask for a written estimate, references and guarantees when shopping around for the best contractor. Digging down is a great way to add space and value to your home.

Replacing your home’s exterior siding If your home’s exterior siding has begun to crack, flake, split or warp, then it’s time to change it. By prolonging the inevitable, you’re allowing the elements to seep through the exterior wall cladding and damage the interior materials. Here are some popular options available for when it comes to replacing your siding. VINYL This is an affordable, lightweight and easy-to-install material that is impervious to scratches, mould and insect damage. ENGINEERED WOOD Also known as composite wood, this material is made from wood fibres, resin and wax. It looks exactly like natural wood and comes in different colours and textures. It’s also durable and requires very little upkeep, making it an eco-friendly choice.

WOOD Wood is the perfect choice when looking for eco-friendly siding that will add value to your home. Visually stunning, it can be combined with any other material to give your home a unique charm. BRICK Thanks to its exceptional durability, brick is one of the most cost-effective sidings on the market. It’s extremely resistant to weather, fires, pests and rot, and adds an element of refined elegance to any style of home. Exterior siding is more than just a barrier against the seasonal elements; it defines the very character of your home. That’s why it’s important to consider all of your options when looking to upgrade or replace your current exterior wall cladding.

FIBRE CEMENT Available in boards, panels, shingles or soffit, fibre cement is a wall cladding that’s gaining in popularity. Durable and resistant to temperature variations, it comes in a wide array of colours and has either a smooth or textured finish. Exterior siding gives your home character while protecting it from the elements.

Thinking of adding a second storey to your home? Building up is great way to add value to your home without sacrificing your outdoor space. More importantly, though, this type of extension is the perfect solution if you want to increase the amount of available space in your home. You’ll be able to add bedrooms, an office, another bathroom or even an apartment, which you could rent without having to move. Most homes are able to accommodate a second storey. Of course, before beginning any work whatsoever, make sure the zoning laws in your municipality permit this type of renovation. Once you’re given the green light, you’ll need to choose the right contractor for your project. Ideally, you’ll want to hire a professional to take care of the entire renovation from start to finish. This means having someone on board for the consultation, evaluation, planning and

construction of every little detail, such as the room layout, interior finishing and exterior siding. Having the right specialist by your side will allow you to continue living in your home without having to lift a finger during the project. A second storey addition to your bungalow is nothing short of spectacular. It will add value to your home while making it far more spacious and visually stunning. If you want, you could even take this opportunity to redesign the ground floor to include a more functional kitchen or cathedral ceilings to maximize lighting. It’ll be like moving into a brand new home without having to leave your neighbourhood. Adding a second storey to your home will have a stunning and lasting effect.

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There’s no time to waste! Harvest Glen has released the final homes of Phase 12. Don’t miss the opportunity to own a new home in a great Santa Maria location. Visit with us today for specific homesite details! Featuring four outstanding floorplans to choose from, the homes of Harvest Glen offer functional design, quality finishing at every turn, and stylish interiors for all to admire. Harvest Glen • Santa Maria Single Family Homes • 1 & 2 Story Designs 1,623 to 2,639 Sq Ft • 3-5 Bedrooms 3 Baths • Generous Family & Great Rooms 2-3 Car Garages Now Selling from the high $300,000s

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Lee Central Coast Newspapers / Homes etc. / September 25, 2016

Stop by this weekend and check out what makes Harvest Glen just right for you and your family.

NO MELLO-ROOS! NO HOA DUES!

Brighten your home with indirect LED lighting Hidden light sources are the perfect idea for any lighting design project in your home. Whether it’s under beds, along baseboards or above cabinets, flex ible, indirect LED lighting strips can be installed virtually anywhere you want. These light emitting diodes are a great alternative to direct overhead lighting and they’ll provide any room with warmth and character.

SHED SOME NEW LIGHT The traditional use of direct overhead light ing can feel cold and sterile. What’s more, the glare from these lights is rarely forgiving when it comes to your home’s blemishes and imperfections. LED strips, on the other hand, are easily installed, use very little energy and have a very long lifespan. They’re also perfect when look ing to add a calming atmosphere or creative flair to a given room. Here are a few ideas to inspire you for your next lighting project. Place LED strips:

4 September 25, 2016 / Homes etc. / Lee Central Coast Newspapers

• Under beds, couches or even the edge of a podium bath • Under or above your kitchen cabinets • Under the shelves in your office • Around your deck or pool • In the cab interior of your RV

Trending kitchen cabinet designs The kitchen is the heart of every home. Not only does it need to be functional, but as the hub of your family life, it also has to be visually stunning. To this effect, kitchen cabinets have moved away from the rustic and classical designs of previous years. In an effort to become more modern and sleek, cabinetry has adopted a new seamless style combining appearance and functionality. A MINIMALISTIC APPROACH Kitchens have become increasingly streamlined over the years. Gone are the days of raised panel doors, excess orna mentation and crown moldings. Instead, you’ll find a more European approach emphasizing horizontal lines and an obvi ous absence of patterns. Fulloverlay cabi netry is brought to the ceiling and flatpan el doors are outfitted with basic chrome or stainless steel hardware — anything

and everything to create that sleek and unadorned look. INSPIRED BY YOUR TASTES You’ll encounter a varied selection of cabinets when attempting to tailor the design of your kitchen to your style and needs. Melamine continues to be a popular choice for many kitchens. Installing solid wood cabinets will increase the value of any home, but they are more expensive than other materials such as veneer and thermoplastic. And color choices, while often influenced by natural light, will vary depending on your personal taste and style. Consulting a renovation specialist is always a good idea when looking to make your kitchen more modern. Their exper tise and personalized assistance will help you select and install the right cabinets for your kitchen. Kitchen cabinets make a move towards the modern!

A BEAUTIFUL GLOW Unlike their compact fluorescent coun terparts, LED bulbs give off a warm glow and virtually no glare. Tailo red to indoor lighting, they evenly distribute the light to help bathe the room in soft and welcoming colours. This will help make the room feel bigger and will bring out any stylish architectural ele ments you may have.

The benefits of maintaining your heating system With autumn fast approaching, it’s time to start thinking about winterizing your house. Your heating system is the life blood of your home during the cold sea son, so it’s important to keep it in perfect working condition. The last thing you want is to be left out in the cold during a blizzard. ANNUAL INSPECTIONS Your furnace or boiler should be maintained at least once a year, regardless if it runs on electricity, gas or oil. By servicing your heating system annually, you’ll be able to keep energy losses to a minimum, prevent

parts from breaking down and help ensure the safety of you and your family. SERVICES AND SUPPORT A qualified heating technician will: • Check the air supply of your of boiler or furnace • Inspect the flue or vent pipes • Check the condition of the heat exchang er • Ensure that the various parts of the heat ing system are in good working condi tion • Perform additional checks if your heat ing system uses natural gas or oil

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU? There are several benefits to having your heating system cleaned and checked by a certified technician. A fur nace or boiler that isn’t running at peak performance will require more energy to maintain the same level of output. This can cause damage to your system, alter the temperature of your home and increase your energy bill. What’s more, by having a technician install a carbon monoxide alarm, you’ll have the added security of being alerted if there’s ever a potentially threatening gas leak in your home.

Walking you through the process one step at a time! Julie Walker, ABR, GRI www.juliewalker.com

Cell: 805.431.9484 • Julie@juliewalker.com CalBRE# 00962600

2180 Lake Marie

$599,000 1182 Shady Glen

Single story Lake Maria Estates home on .72 acres. Kitchen has been remodeled with Viking stove, double convection ovens, and a built in BBQ between the kitchen and dining room. It boasts 4 huge bedrooms, 2 nice size baths and fruit trees in the back yard. Julie Walker/Jean Studer (805) 878-0705 297 W. Waller Ln.

$589,900

262 Wellington Dr.

$355,900

$529,900

This is a one of a kind custom built home on .61 acres nestled across the street from Waller Park. Beautiful detailed woodwork & wonderful sliding Japanese Shoji doors have been added to this special 3 bedroom, 2 1/2-bathroom home. Master bedroom is very large & bath has an updated walk-in master shower and large separate dressing area. Julie Walker (805) 431-9484

2255 Lexington Dr.

$325,900

Beautiful Village Hills home! Single story, 3 bed/2 bath with 3 car garage on large lot! Great floor plan with fireplace, vaulted ceilings and indoor laundry. Great yard with built in BBQ and Smoker. Fruit trees: plum, apricot, Meyer lemon, avocado, nectarine and apples too!. Julie Walker (805) 431-9484

255 W. Waller Ln.

$299,900

Investors! Great investment property! This charming home is located right across the street from beautiful Waller Park! You can sit in the living room and see the park as your view. This home has 1 bedroom, 1 bath, office and indoor laundry room. Laminate flooring throughout the living room, dining area and kitchen. Private back yard on .29 acres. Julie Walker (805) 431-9484

4701 Paint Horse Trail

$840,000

1746 Bilbao

$350,000

Spacious hard to find single level La Ventana end unit available! 3 large bedrooms and 2 big bathrooms! Vaulted ceilings, open concept living, dining and kitchen area. Back patio has been extended and landscaping is drought tolerant with drip system and water conservation in mind! This great property is close to the hospital, doctors and freeway access! Julie Walker (805) 431-9484

Vacant Lot W. Waller Ln.

$189,900

Contractors, this lot is for you! Private lot on the end of a private road across from Waller Park in Santa Maria. This is your chance to build your own home on .36 acres! Call the City of Santa Maria with questions. APN# 111-092-027 Julie Walker (805) 431-9484

4390 Kapalua Dr.

$839,000

PENDING

Pride of ownership in this single story Foxenwood Garden Villa home! Expansive vaulted ceilings, 2 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Master bath has dual sinks, walk in shower and large soaking tub. Beautiful large living room with sliding doors to your spacious patio with views of the greenbelt.

Great Santa Maria Regency Estate home. 4 bedrooms/2 baths with huge kitchen, plenty of counter space and large dining area! Lovely fireplace in living room with remote, sliding door to the beautiful patio and low maintenance back yard. 3 nice size bedrooms and large master bedroom with great closet space and large master bath. Julie Walker (805) 431-9484

This custom Spanish style home is situated on 1 acre in prestigious Westrail Estates in West Orcutt. There are great vaulted ceilings throughout the home with plenty of natural light. Step into the spacious 19’ x19’ updated kitchen equipped with Jenn-Air appliances, large casual dining area, beautiful natural Birch cabinetry and desk, and an expansive 9’ long granite island for great entertaining and family gatherings. Julie Walker/Jean Studer (805) 878-0705

Exceptional single level Orcutt Kimberly Estates home on .92 acre. This home is 2914 sq. ft. and separate permitted 800 sq. ft. theater room/private office. Check out the North/South facing tennis/basketball/ pickleball/all purpose court and great safe haven playground. Large RV area for all your toys and 25 min. to Pismo Beach! Julie Walker (805) 431-9484

Julie Walker/Jean Studer

(805) 878-0705

Lee Central Coast Newspapers / Homes etc. / September 25, 2016

Custom built 3800+ sq. ft. single level home located in Santa Maria on a private road across from Waller Park! 4 bedrooms and 3 1/4 baths with tons of closets and huge inside laundry room. Formal living room, family room and large bonus room with fireplace, wet bar and sliding doors to go out to the patio and pool area! Home is on a ¾+ acre. Julie Walker (805) 431-9484

295 W. Waller Ln.

$439,000

Cleaning your stainless steel surfaces The sleek design of stainless steel can give any kitchen a stylish and contemporary look. The problem is, these surfaces are prone to showing fingerprints and water stains, which can sometimes be difficult to remove. However, there are a few simple steps you can take to keep your stainless steel appliances, countertops and sinks shining like new. GIVE THEM A REGULAR CLEANING Although resistant and durable, time and overuse can deteriorate the condition and appearance of stainless steel. However, this metal won’t wear as a result of too much cleaning, so remove spots and smudges as soon as they appear. Routinely cleaning these surfaces will go a long way in keeping them looking great. KEEP THAT SHINE Water spots can be cleaned with some warm water and a clean cloth. Make sure to properly dry the surface to prevent

additional water stains from forming. A nylon scouring pad will come in handy to remove any food residue in sinks or on countertops. Use a mild abrasive free of chlorine and iron to eliminate light surface scratches. Deeper scratches, on the other hand, can be repaired with a good professional polishing. WHAT NOT TO DO Simply put, stainless steel and bleach do not mix. Using cleaning products that contain bleach can cause rust to form and the steel to corrode, so avoid them at all costs. This goes for all cleaning products that contain harsh and aggressive chemicals, such as hydrochloric acid. Salt and white vinegar can negatively affect the metal’s surface over time, so use them sparingly. Finally, avoid using metal sponges, brushes and scouring pads as they’ll leave unsightly scratches on your surfaces.

6 September 25, 2016 / Homes etc. / Lee Central Coast Newspapers

Creating your very own art studio An art studio in your home is the perfect place to express your creativity without having to stow away your works in progress. Regardless if it’s for painting, sculpting or drawing, chances are your studio will be just as unique as you are. Personal preferences aside, there are some basics that all fun and functional art studios require. 1. PROPER LIGHTING The best light to work by is natural light. Of course, white fluorescent lighting will get the job done if your studio doesn’t have any windows.

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2. GOOD VENTILATION Fresh air is always a good thing, regardless of your craft. However, certain artists tend to work with products that emit harmful fumes, such as oil paints. If your studio doesn’t have any windows, make sure to have a fan or two on hand to keep the air circulating. 3. EASILY ACCESSIBLE SUPPLIES Your tools are the agents of your creations, so take good care of them. Storage boxes, bins and cabinets are great for keeping your supplies organized and clean.

4. A COMFORTABLE SETTING When the time comes to take a step back to muse over your handiwork, make sure you have somewhere relaxing to do it. Cozy chairs, a radio or even a coffee maker will provide you with the necessary comforts when you feel drained. 5. YOUR PRIVATE GALLERY Your studio will eventually become your art gallery. Hooks, shelves, tables and easels are useful for hanging or displaying your work as well as your reference photos.

Avoiding renovation-related injuries Your safety should always be your biggest priority when it comes to renovating your home. Being ill-equipped or unprepared can lead to many different types of injuries, particularly in the hands, knees, elbows, shoulders and back. That’s why it’s extremely important to be cautious when it comes to DIY renovations. COMMON CAUSES OF INJURIES Injuries occurring during home renovations are caused by a variety of factors, including: • Lifting heavy materials combined with a lack of help • Making uncoordinated or erratic movements • Fatigue and exhaustion caused by a lack of breaks

• A workspace that’s too restrictive • Inexperience using certain tools PREVENT ACCIDENTS FROM HAPPENING Always keep the areas where you’re working free of clutter. Corridors, hallways and the areas around scaffolding should be clear of any equipment, materials or debris. Always wear protective gloves and steel-toed boots while working, and make sure your workspace has adequate lighting. Lastly, take frequent breaks to avoid over-exerting yourself; a few minutes’ rest here and there will help in avoiding careless mistakes.

The benefits of burglar-proof windows Your home’s windows are an accessible point of entry for would-be burglars. In most cases, it takes them little time and minimal effort to pick a low-end lock or simply force one open. Luckily, window manufacturers offer a range of burglar-proof windows that will discourage even the most ambitious of thieves from entering your home.

A Finnish sauna experience right at home The most popular type of sauna is the Finnish sauna. And for the modest sum of $2000, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of this European tradition all year long in the comfort of your very own home.

Traditional Finnish saunas consist of a wood cabin typically made from spruce, hemlock or pine. Inside, seating, stones and a heater (either wood, gas or electric). Saunas are sold in pre-fabricated kits that you can install yourself. You can also have your sauna custom-built to meet your specific needs, but this option is more expensive. During installation, be sure to leave the electrical connections to a certified professional.

MAINTAINING YOUR SAUNA Leave your sauna door open when not in use. This will encourage good airflow, which will help dry the wood surfaces and prevent mould and mildew from accumulating. Clean the benches, walls, backrests and floor after each use to maintain you sauna in the best possible condition. Finally, regularly treat the wood surfaces with oil to protect your sauna from water stains, moisture damage and discolouration.

Any home can incorporate a Finnish sauna. Once installed, it becomes the perfect place to soothe those sore joints and tired muscles. And by regulating the temperature and humidity according to your preferences, you’ll be able to sit, relax and sweat your stress away.

WHERE TO PUT YOUR SAUNA The basic goal of a sauna session is to perspire, so it’s important to place it somewhere you’ll be able to rinse yourself off. Ideally, you’ll want to install your sauna near a lake or pond, or in your bathroom if you have enough space. When installing a sauna indoors, it’s important to leave at least 10 cm between the wall and the cabin to allow for good air circulation.

Lee Central Coast Newspapers / Homes etc. / September 25, 2016

These windows are made from either single- or double-glazed safety glass that’s been reinforced with several layers of durable transparent film. This process makes them very resistant, with the added bonus of soundproofing your home at the same time. They’ll help to delay — ACT FAST IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT Despite our best efforts, mishaps can and even debar — an attempt to enter still occur. That’s why it’s important to your home. take the necessary measures in the event of an injury. If you’ve cut yourself, On average, the process of breaking apply direct pressure to the wound with into a home usually takes a burglar a clean cloth while keeping the injury between two and four minutes. It can raised above your head. If it’s a deep be even quicker if the thief enters and serious wound, go to the emergency through a window — easily broken room right away. For any eye-related in under a minute. However, it takes injury, a simple rinse using water should do more than five minutes to break a the trick. However, seek medical atten- burglar-proof window, — and that’s tion immediately should a foreign object using special tools. This added security become lodged in your eye. In the event helps to discourage most burglars, who of an amputation (a finger, for example), will likely leave your house untouched contain the bleeding first and then con- in favour of an easier target. tact emergency services. If at all possible, roll the cut appendage in a moist cloth, Contact your local window manufacplace it a sealable bag and put it on ice. turers and installers to obtain more

information about these types of windows. They’ll be able to answer any questions you may have with regards to your current needs. And if you’re somewhat restricted by your budget, think about changing only the most accessible windows of your home, like those in the basement or on the first floor.

The clear advantage of glass and Plexiglas Translucency is the new trend when it comes to furniture and accessories adorning your home’s interior. Glass and Plexiglas furnishings and decorations help establish a unique look that increases the value of your home. The high durability of tempered glass and the malleability of Plexiglas have made them increasingly popular with designers when decorating modern spaces. FOCUS ON LIGHT We all want to increase our home’s natural lighting, but many of us tend to clutter our rooms with large furniture and coloured accessories. However, decorations and furnishings made from translucent materials will add elegance to your rooms — and make them feel bigger — while letting the sunshine in.

Transparent furniture goes well with any finish, from stone to wood or stainless steel, making it an ideal accent regardless of the style you’ve chosen for your home. AFFORDABLE AND DURABLE Despite their fragile appearance, glass and Plexiglas furniture and adornments are extremely resilient. Whether it’s for a modern table, classic chair or even a stylish door or partition, sturdiness is a must. And with so many transparent decor options available varying in shape, size and style, you’ll have all you need to brighten your home. And if you’re working with a limited budget, keep in mind that Plexiglas is less expensive than glass but yields very similar results.

How to choose the perfect mattress The wrong mattress can leave you tos sing and turning all night. To avoid the negative health effects that come with restless sleep, you need a bed that fits your specific needs and sleeping habits. Here are five criteria you should consider when shopping for a new mattress. 1. COMFORT Trying your mattress before buying it is a must. Don’t be shy about stretching out on the different instore models. Make sure to lie in the position you usually sleep in and to take as much time as you need. Your goal here is to determine if the mattress is a good fit for your body.

8 September 25, 2016 / Homes etc. / Lee Central Coast Newspapers

2. SUPPORT Your mattress should mould itself to your unique body shape while supporting your spine in a natural position. Proper align ment will save you from waking up with back and neck pain and will vary according to whether you sleep on your back, stomach or side. 3. BOX SPRING COMPATIBILITY Newer mattresses might not be compatible with your current box spring. They tend to be heavier and thicker than previous

Game rooms: rest and recreation for all A game room in your home is the perfect place to entertain young and old alike. Children will be able to use the space to play with their toys and create colourful crafts. Adults can make the most of the room by adding a big screen TV and gaming console, or even a pool table. Regardless of who will benefit from the space, certain criteria should be taken into consideration when designing your game room. LOCATION AND LIGHTING Your basement is the ideal location for a game room. For optimal lighting, it should have at least one window to let in some natural light. Of course, there are other options available if this isn’t possible, such as installing pot lights and a dimmer switch. When it comes to paint, lighter

colours will help accentuate the light and will make your room more feel more spacious. Massive and dark-coloured furniture tends to disrupt the flow of a room, so try to avoid these as much as possible. FURNITURE AND FINISHING TOUCHES Dividing the space into different activity stations is a great way to make the most of your game room. You can create a cozy nook for watching movies and playing video games, a kiddie corner with toys and costumes, and a craft station with a table, chairs and art supplies. Of course, it’s important to outfit each area with the appropriate materials. This means washable surfaces for creative undertakings, soft furnishings to protect against injuries during more rambunctious games, and comfortable furniture for lazing about.

models, and older bed frames aren’t always able to properly support them. 4. SPEND MORE TO GET MORE Keep in mind that a new mattress is extre mely important to your health and well being. A good night’s sleep will improve things like your memory, immune system and mood, so it’s prudent to spend a little more on comfort and quality to get a better night’s rest. 5. BIGGER IS BETTER Size matters when it comes to your mat tress. A larger bed is preferable if you tend to toss and turn a lot at night. Having more space also allows couples to move around without disturbing each other.

Tips on puppy-proofing your home You might not think so, but puppies are a lot like babies. They have a ton of energy, they’re very curious and they start teeth ing before you know it. That’s why it’s important to take precautionary measures to avoid accidents. Of course, you can’t anticipate everything, but by being proac tive you’ll be able to limit mishaps and messes. PROTECT YOUR FURNITURE AND ELECTRICAL WIRES Puppies will use their mouths to explore their surroundings, so make sure that anything fragile or valuable is well out of reach. Protect the legs of your furniture by wrapping them in plastic. You should also cover all wires and plug sockets with outlet plugs to reduce the risk of an electrical shock.

flowers, such as the ficus, rhododendron or lily, can be harmful to your dog. Either replace these with less harmful plants or consider moving them somewhere a little more secure. YOUR PUPPY’S LIVING SPACE Make a point of creating a small living space for your puppy as soon as it arrives by using a crate and/or safety gates. You’ll want to give your pup enough room to go about its daily activities without neces sarily giving it access to the entire house. You’ll be able to expand the area as the bond and trust between you two grows, eventually allowing your puppy to come and go as it pleases.

TOXIC PRODUCTS AND PLANTS Puppies are curious by nature, so it’s important to remove anything that is potentially dangerous from their environment. Keep disinfectants, insec ticides and pesticides out of reach. Remember that some houseplants and

Ceramic tiles are the ideal choice in floor ing if you’re looking for something that’s durable, easy to clean and suited to any design style. Available in a wide selection of sizes, shapes, colours, textures and patterns, ceramic tiles are the perfect complement to any room in your house. Here are three types that might make you think differently about flooring.

2. A SLAB OF UNDERSTATED If you’re a fan of industrial style, you’ll love ceramic tiles that replicate the look of natural stone, cement or concrete floors. Certain manufacturers have even gone as far as adding texture to the tiles, giving them a remarkably raw and unfinished look. 3. CAPTIVATING PATTERNS Today’s ceramic tiles come in array of dif ferent designs and patterns to please even the most eclectic and eccentric of tastes. With so many varieties in colours and pat terns, the possibilities are endless as to just how unique your floor can be.

1. A WOODSY FEEL Thanks to innovative, high-definition designs, ceramic flooring manufacturers can reproduce the natural look and warmth of real wood floors. Faux wood tiles closely mimic the look of hardwood floor ing such as bamboo, redwood and even distressed wood. They’re perfect for rooms traditionally too humid for hard

wood flooring, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Lee Central Coast Newspapers / Homes etc. / September 25, 2016

The inspired new look of ceramic tiles

Bring a touch of the outdoors inside More and more people have taken to incor porating a bit of nature into the decor of their homes, and with good reason. Plants provide a nice touch of colour, create a relaxing atmosphere and help to purify the air in your house. So by fashionably using plants and flowers as decorative accesso ries, you’ll be able to breathe new life into your home.

10 September 25, 2016 / Homes etc. / Lee Central Coast Newspapers

Making the inside of your home come to life couldn’t be easier. Simply arrange a cluster of assorted plants along a stretch of

wall — in your living room or bathroom, for example — that has a window. Position a low and sturdy table beneath the window and garnish it with an array of exotic plants varying in size and species. You can also place your flora on nested tables or shelves at different levels to create a stunning visual effect.

Breathe new life into old wooden pallets Old wooden pallets are typically recycled or thrown away once they’ve outlived their usefulness in the shipping industry. However, repurposing the wood from these pallets has become an increasingly popular trend, especially when it comes to home renovation and interior design.

MAKING THE MOST OF ITS VERSATILITY The wood from pallets can be used to make almost anything. Common recycled crea tions include tables, shelving units, deco rative objects, wood flooring, garden struc tures, temporary shelters and tree houses for children. Depending on your needs, the pallet can be stripped of its individual boards or used as a whole. What’s Keep in mind that certain plants don’t more, the wood from pal get along well with others when lets can be painted, stained or planning the layout of your indoor varnished. garden. You can always consult a horticulturalist if you’re having A MATERIAL THAT’S OFTEN FREE trouble deciding on which plants Big industrial companies and to use. hardware stores will fre quently throw their wood pallets away or leave them SOME GOOD CHOICES near recycling containers. So The chlorophytum (or spider plant), with a little resourcefulness, ficus, ivy, bowstring hemp, philoden you’ll be able to supply your dron and gerbera are all species that self with building materials require minimal upkeep and have air free of charge. If this isn’t purifying qualities. These types of plants an option, you can always help rid the air of carbon dioxide, formal negotiate a fair price with dehyde, benzene and formalin. your local hardware store. No indoor garden would be complete without kokedema. A Japanese variant of the bonsai, this art form involves wrapping your plant’s roots in soil, moss and string. By hanging these charming little gardens from your ceiling, you’ll be able to create a spectacular tableau of greenery virtually anywhere in your home.

NO LIMITATIONS You’re only limited by your creativity when it comes to upcycling wooden pal lets. They can be sawed, glued, nailed, screwed, stapled, sanded, framed, water treated and burned — by design, of course. They style well with various types of wood, different metals and other build ing materials. And with little cost and effort, you can give old wooden pallets a new lease on life while upgrading your home decor.

Keep the conversation rolling in your new lounge The key to a memorable evening amongst family or friends is conversation. Whether it’s to recount your day, make plans for the future or simply for an intimate tête-à-tête, a lounge is the perfect place for light-hearted, witty or existential exchanges. Outfitting your home with a cozy lounge will go a long way in keeping the conversation going. THE ESSENTIALS Comfort should be the main priority when designing a lounge. To make the most of your relaxing environment, you’ll need:

• A large rug (patterned, shag, etc.). • One or more low tables. • Large throws for those chilly evenings. • Decorative plants, either real or artificial. • Muted light sources, such as pendant or recessed lights with dimmer switches, ac cent lamps, LED strip lights, candles and tea-lights. • A gas or electric fireplace for a warm ambiance.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLOURS To brighten your lounge, interior designers usually recommend warm colours like red, orange or yellow. These hues will make the space feel more welcoming • Comfortable couches and armchairs — a sectional and are guaranteed to help enliven the conversation. sofa is a great choice. Subtle colours such as ivory, beige and steel grey • Cushions of various shapes and styles. can also be used to de corate your lounge, as long as • Ottomans or footrests. they’re paired with colourful accessories and decor.

Using rose gold in your home Rose gold, also known as pink gold, has gone from being a distinctive element of jewellery to one of the most soughtafter decorative metals in home design. The soft and warm atmosphere it creates makes it the perfect way to add a touch of class and elegance to your home. That’s why it’s one of the most alluring and often-used metallic shades when it comes to interior decorating. INSPIRING DECOR Rose gold soared in popularity thanks to its use in some of the biggest fashion shows in the world. This timeless hue is now being used to outfit an increasing array of decorative household objects: lamps, trays, vases and even garbage cans. Rose gold is also making its way into home furnishings and wall panelling. It pairs well with a variety of materials including wood, silver and copper. Its graceful and gentle colour can add a hint of luxury to any room.

Choosing the right dining room table Buying a new dining table is not always as straightforward as it seems. Taste and style will be key deciding factors, but you’ll also have to consider what shape works best with your current space. Here are the three most popular shapes for tables and the advantages of each. 1. RECTANGULAR Rectangular tables are without a doubt the most common choice when it comes to dining tables. They’re ideal for accommodating a large number of people and can be easily extended by inserting a leaf. Their shape also leaves more room for traffic, thereby conferring a better flow to the room.

3. ROUND. Although less conventional, round dining tables are gaining in popularity. Modern and welcoming, they’re perfect for smaller rooms since they take up less space than the more traditional rectangular tables. One of the biggest advantages of round tables is that everyone can see each other while seated. This makes conversation much easier and tends to create a more friendly setting. Certain round tables can also be extended using a leaf to accommodate more guests should the need arise.

AN ART IN ITSELF There are no defined standards when it comes to interior decorating. Designs and trends change over time, varying from person to person and home to home. Interior decorators are skilled when it comes to blending styles and colours, and are experts at finding

those decorative items that make all the difference. They also have a wealth of knowledge about the different fabrics and materials that work well together. They’ll bring a unique and modern touch to your home while ad hering to your own personal preferences and tastes. AN EYE FOR DESIGN An interior decorator will be able to help you every step of the way as you redesign your home. They’ll analyze the different options available to you and suggest the best possible choices for your current needs. Whether it’s establishing a budget, choosing colours and materials, or following up on orders, a decorator will oversee each step in the process to ensure you’re completely satisfied with the end result.

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2. SQUARE Square tables are usually smaller in size,

which makes them ideal for more compact homes. Versatile and easy to move, they’re perfect for creating a cozier and more intimate atmosphere. You also have the luxury of either positioning the table in the middle of the room or against a wall.

We’re rarely short on ideas when it comes to decorating our homes. But sometimes, knowing where to start can be a little daunting. Maybe you’re looking to update your new home with a look you’ll love, refresh the style of your current house or even stage it to help it sell faster. Regardless of your needs, an interior decorator will be able to provide you with sound ad vice while respecting your tastes and budget.

Lee Central Coast Newspapers / Homes etc. / September 25, 2016

TO BE USED SPARINGLY Rose gold’s main virtue is that it complements any decor and suits any style. However, this metal should be used as a finishing touch; only a few light traces are needed to create a refined allure. Overusing its enticing lustre with too many accessories can have the opposite effect, making your room or decor appear somewhat tawdry and inelegant.

Why hire an interior decorator?

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GUADALUPE

W. Main St

SANTA MARIA

166

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Main St

Broadway

Guadalupe Dunes Beach

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PACIFIC OCEAN

135

Black Rd

12 September 25, 2016 / Homes etc. / Lee Central Coast Newspapers

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