1-13-18 At Home

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Throwback style Home inspiration from another time

DIY projects

Easy ways to improve the visual appeal of your home

A special publication of the Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer

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Saturday, January 13, 2018 Messenger-Inquirer

LETTER from the

EDITOR

Like most of you, I am hunkered down at home during this awful winter weather. I have gathered up bags of unwanted items and started my spring cleaning early. If you’re stuck inside and needing something to occupy your time, look no further than this edition of At Home.

In this edition of At Home, you will find easy DIY projects to improve the visual appeal of your home, how to make your home child-safe and how some throwback styles are becoming popular again.

I am still looking for homeowners who have tackled a big DIY or home renovation project or anyone who has an interesting story about their home. If you would like your story told, please contact me at mrichardson@messengerinquirer.com or 270-691-7233.

— Meghann Richardson Special Publications Editor

Child-safe home improvements All family members should be considered when home improvements are being planned, especially the youngest household residents who may not be responsible enough to avoid accidents and injuries.

According to a recent Vital Signs report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, accidental injuries are a leading cause of death among the country’s youth — with one fatality occurring every hour from something entirely preventable. The CDC notes that the leading causes of child injury include suffocation, drowning, poisoning, fires, and falls. More can be done to keep children safe, and many strategies start at home.

INSTALL SECURITY SYSTEMS

A security system can be just as effective at keeping little ones inside as it is at keeping unwanted guests outside. Alarms can be set to sound anytime a window or door is breached, which can deter curious children from trying to leave the house without permission. Pair the alarm system with secure locks and high latches that can also stop children in their tracks.

REMOVE FALL HAZARDS

Safety devices installed on windows that are above ground level can keep children safe. Stair rails should be secure and in good working order.

Temporary gates can block kids from getting on stairways. Improve lighting around staircases to help children and adults avoid falls, and remove

any obstacles.

ANCHOR HEAVY FURNITURE

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission warns that unanchored televisions and top-heavy furniture can tip over onto children and cause severe injuries and even death. Everyday furniture can be tempting to climb; therefore, using anchors to secure furniture to walls for security is a must.

INSTALL LOCKING CABINETS

Locking cabinets can keep medications, household chemicals, home improvement paints and solvents, and other potential poisons out of reach.

ERECT FENCING AROUND POOLS AND YARDS

Install fencing around pools to keep children from wandering close to the water’s edge. Towns and cities may require certain fence heights or self-latching gates to keep little ones safe. Young children should never be left to their own devices around any source of water, whether it’s a pool, tub or toilet.

TEST AND REPLACE SMOKE ALARMS

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are only useful if they are functional. Homeowners should inspect such devices regularly to ensure proper operation and promptly replace old or faulty detectors to improve safety.

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Saturday, January 13, 2018

CREATING AN OASIS

Messenger-Inquirer

Incorporate spa-like features to bring renewed energy

BY BPT

Today, more than ever, homeowners gravitate toward design elements that transform the bath into a spa-like oasis. Designers look to incorporate pieces inspired by the natural world to bring renewed energy into the room and create a soothing environment. From fixtures inspired by booming waterfalls, to neutral color schemes and natural light, nature infuses life back into luxur y bath design for a serene sense of calm.

NEUTRAL CALM

Light colors such as cool grays and muted blues evoke tranquility and peacefulness. Neutral colors for walls and fabrics create a soothing aesthetic that fosters relaxation in the space. To create visual interest within a neutral palette, incorporate var ying shades of earth tones to ser ve as complementar y accents throughout the room — from decorative rugs and plush towels to cabinetr y and tiling.

NATURE’S INSPIRATION

Elements inspired by nature work together to produce a sense of relaxation in the home’s oasis.

Intuitive in design, the Vettis Bath Collection by Brizo combines solid proportions and angular architecture with an optional four-sided open chamber that mimics the sensory experience of a waterfall. Inspired by the strength found in nature, the defined edges of the spout create a balanced aesthetic, while subtle facets offer visual depth. Paired with natural stone accents, this collection evokes elements of natural inspiration.

STONE SERENITY

A freestanding stone tub makes a luxurious statement to enhance the spa atmosphere. Sleek, oval architectures provide an organic contemporar y touch, while rectangular basins deliver a strong geometric focal point. Take the spa-like experience even further and incorporate the use of essential oils. Lavender and chamomile reduce stress and encourage sleep, while peppermint and lemon oils increase focus and mental alertness in the morning. From modern to transitional aesthetics, a freestanding, natural stone tub paired with the sensor y infusion of essential oils creates the perfect at-home getaway.

LIVING ACCENTS

Natural lighting and live plants blur the line between the great outdoors and the enclosed space.

Large floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights ser ve as eye-catching accents while also naturally illuminating the room. Hanging succulents and potted bamboo plants are additional decor options to bring nature indoors without sacrificing clean, simple design.

throwback style

Pay tribute to your favorite era with these re-emerging trends BYÂ FAMILY FEATURES

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Saturday, January 13, 2018

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When it’s time for a bathroom or kitchen upgrade, some of the greatest inspiration may come from another time entirely. Some of the most on-trend styles of today are actually throwbacks to bygone eras.

Learn how to make your updated spaces pay tribute to re-emerging trends and add your own modern touches with these three new-again looks.

RETRO-MODERN

A retro-modern design is unique in every way, with elements transitioning from the historically unfitted 1920s to 1950s charm and eccentricity. The result is a space that represents many eras and design styles, and the kitchen is the perfect space to bring this look to life.

Start by establishing a focal point for your retro-modern design, such as a functional nod to the past. Long before modern refrigeration, iceboxes were used in many of the homes in the early 20th century to keep foods fresh. It’s possible to mimic this look with the Wellborn Cabinet Premier Series, to achieve an icebox look that actually functions as storage space.

Use contrasting finishes, colors and textures to uniquely define a small space. For example, a modern cabinet scheme in a dark stain or paint contrasts beautifully with stainless steel hardware and a pop of color to break up the cold nature of stainless steel.

Then bring some uniformity with an option like Shaker decorative legs, which adds to the multi-era design feel. Deriving from the Shaker lifestyle and tradition, the tapering effect offers a beautiful yet simple design feature. Integrate the look across multiple elements, such as a wooden-style tapered leg icebox, along with stainless steel tapered legs on wall and peninsula cabinets, which can pair nicely with stainless-steel hardware and a 1950s Malt Shop grooved countertop.

Accessories are an important part of kitchen design, which is why they should be kept top of mind when building or designing that dream space.

Features such as removable under-sink baskets and a double wastebasket kit lend ultimate practicality.

No matter the era, lighting is a must for a functional kitchen space. A carefully crafted, multi-layered lighting design is an essential component of a dream kitchen. An option like Hafele lighting, now offered through a partnership with Wellborn Cabinet, makes it possible to illuminate cabinetry, delivering ambient, accent, task and decorative lighting to create the right mood for any space.

ELEGANT

the sink vanity and a custom makeup area. While you can rely on cabinetry for functional features, it’s also a way to continue adding elegant touches, such as a beautifully crafted tub skirt and arch that complements the vanity area.

No luxury bathroom is complete without a stand-alone makeup alcove outfitted with unique features like drawer dividers (perfect for hair accessories) and countertop hideaway cabinets.

Consider creating a focal point using rounded spindles to create depth and allow the custom makeup section to stand out in the design. Lastly, embellish the distinguished look with molding options that highlight the feature areas and create a defined line around the room.

An elegant, spacious master bathroom is luxurious and functional, proving that practicality can be used in a glorious way.

A beautiful, ornate bathroom with plenty of traditional features can truly be an interpretation of elegance in design. Plan for an abundance of luxurious, spa-like elements to achieve this look.

Incorporate features such as warm hickory covering every inch of the walls and built-in lighting to set the tone for a relaxing atmosphere. Then incorporate antique-styled mirrors and glass hardware to create contrasts amongst the rich tones and texture.

You can create a distinctive alcove effect by situating the sink vanities directly between matching cabinet ends and recessing two mirrors into the wall.

RETRO A decorative arch valance can add beauty and function, Going to the extreme with your aesthetic with a as this is an ideal place to tuck away lighting that retro design is all about fun, with features such as provides depth and visibility. pops of color in the tile behind the vanities or fun and Let a large soaking tub take center stage between

whimsical wallpaper. A 1950s-style bathroom lets you play on your childlike senses. From bright colors to mixed metals and textures, this unique design style pays respect to the era of Car Hops, Airstream Travel Trailers and Lucille Ball.

The key to making a throwback-styled design work for your contemporary needs is all in the modern elements. Think along the lines of illuminated drawers and cabinets and base pull-out wire baskets. These fun twists of technology paired with retro-styled elements make for a winning solution.

When it comes to the vanities and cabinetry, remember that both style and color can bring your retro design together. Don’t be afraid to step outside more traditional wood tones, and use unexpected colors such as the pink hue available in Wellborn Cabinet’s ColorInspire program. For the woodwork, look for details such as conical-styled, slender legs that add to the 1950s feel.

Reminiscent of days past, a fabulous ’50s bathroom is the ultimate definition of an eccentric design.

There’s no time like now to begin planning your on-trend home upgrades.

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DIY

Saturday, January 13, 2018

Messenger-Inquirer

during winter 4 projects to improve the visual appeal of your home

BY BPT

If you love a good DIY project, then the beautiful weather of the spring and summer marked the perfect time to tackle all of your outdoor goals. Yes, these were the good times, but since then, the weather has shifted and cooler temperatures have arrived. So, is now the time to shelve your DIY aspirations for the rest of the year?

Hardly.

Colder outdoor temperatures may have forced you indoors, but they don’t have to mark an end to your DIY pursuits. There is still plenty of work to be done and you can reinvent the rooms inside your home by following through on the simple DIY projects listed below.

MAKE A HARDWARE REPLACEMENT

Want to remodel your kitchen or bathroom but lack the money and the skill to tackle this one right now? Not a problem. Simple hardware replacements to your cabinets, drawers and towel racks are easy projects that are cost effective and still catch visitors’ eyes. Remember, knobs are preferable for drawers, while handles are the choice for cabinets. Try to select hardware that supports the overall feel of your space.

CHOOSE AN IMAGE THAT DEFINES YOU

Forgo paint and let your walls really take the spotlight. A custom wall covering from Murals Your Way adds personality and creates an instant focal point in any space. Choose from thousands of image options or if none feel quite right, use their Create Your Own feature. It allows you to upload any image you want (think a vista from your last vacation, or even a photo of your family) for an extra personal touch. With a turnaround time of less than two weeks and easy removable wallpaper options that any DIY-er can apply, it’s the perfect way to give your home a completely new look.

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Saturday, January 13, 2018

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SHED A NEW, ENHANCED LIGHT

Like your kitchen or bathroom fixtures, updating the lighting in a room is an easy, inexpensive way to make a big improvement in your space. The right light can make any space feel warmer and look larger, so explore your creative side and find the lighting solution that appeals to you. Lastly, don’t discount the importance of the bulb.

Replacing your existing conventional bulbs with an energy-saving alternative can dramatically reduce your electricity bill.

DECORATE FROM HEAD TO TOE

If you want your home to feel larger and provide your guests more visual appeal, employ decoration tactics that speak to the entire space. Shelving, wall murals or photo collages are all popular ways to add real contrast to an empty space, and your guests will enjoy every aspect of the project you have created.

Your time during the warmer months was well spent dramatically improving the visual appeal of your home’s exterior. Now it’s time to turn the tables and give your inside space the same treatment. Start with these four tips and your home will never look or feel the same again.

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Saturday, January 13, 2018

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Laundry room renovation ideas

To former apartment dwellers or those who have never enjoyed the benefit of a dedicated laundry area, even the smallest washer and dryer space can seem like a luxury.

CLEAN DESIGNS REDUCE CLUTTER

Simple, clean designs can be an asset in a laundry room. If budget and space permits, cabinetry built into the design will help keep items out of sight in the laundry room. Cabinets hung directly above the appliances can store detergent, bleach and fabric softener. Use cabinets elsewhere in the room as catch-alls for cleaning supplies used in various other rooms around the house.

INCORPORATE A SINK IN THE DESIGN

Some older laundry room setups have a slop sink to drain discharged water from the washing machine. However, newer homes may have plumbing installed directly through the floor or walls. It is still a worthwhile idea to have a sink in the laundry room for rinsing out stains, handwashing items and having a go-to sink for messier cleanup.

EMPLOY VERTICAL SPACE

Floor space may be at a premium in a laundry room, especially for those who want to devote as

much space as possible to bulk-size washer and dryer units. Therefore, utilizing wall space is key. Use shelving, wire racks, hooks, and other organizational tools to store items on the wall. Shelves can be tucked into just about any space, and there are different options that can fit into corners or shallow areas. These are a great option for keeping detergent or other laundry essentials nearby.

CONSIDER LAUNDRY ROOM FLOORING

It’s important to select flooring materials that will not be damaged by contact with moisture or spills.

Vinyl, tile and some composite products often make good laundry room floor materials. Resilient flooring that mimics the look of hardwood may add a classy touch, and give the appearance of wood without having to worry about damage. To alleviate fatigue while spending long moments in the laundry room, invest in a memory foam mat that can be placed underfoot.

KEEP LIGHTING IN MIND

Lighting can be important in the laundry room.

Rely on task lighting, under-cabinet strip lighting and overhead lights as needed for efficiency.

Laundry room design can maximize the space available and make it more convenient to launder and sort clothes.

For your beautiful Bath and Kitchen Cabinets We have the ideas for you. Come visit.

Plumbing - Lighting Bath & Kitchen Cabinets Home Accessories Irrigation - PVF Septic Systems 2110 Grimes Ave. Owensboro, KY 42303 270-691-6040 www.bathandkitchenideacenter.com