Around THE &
In
HOME
TAMPA BAY TIMES SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Turn your home into a Pet-Friendly PALACE
By Erin Feitsma, Times Total Media Correspondent
house isn’t a home unless it’s a pleasant place for your pets too. But pet-proofing your abode can sometimes prove to be a challenge. Below, we highlight some “PURRFECT” ideas to turn your home into a pet-friendly place in no time.
Keep it fresh: You love your furry friend, but still want your home to smell fresh and clean. Light a nontoxic candle to combat odor while also being mindful of man’s best friend.
The Pet House candle line by One Fur All is a fun choice, featuring a diverse range of scents, from pumpkin spice to mango peach. Pet House candles are paraben-, phthalate-, cruelty- and dye-free and use
candles have been made with pet-loving families in mind and have been formulated to neutralize pet odor.
Protect your furniture: If you have a cat, keep your furniture safe from unsightly
article on a beginner’s guide to caring for indoor plants in this publication.) Be aware, certain plants, like pothos plants and peace lilies, can be harmful to your animals, according to ASPCA Pro. Do your research and remove any plants from inside your home that may harm your pets. This also can include your outdoor plants, if Fido frequently plays outside in the yard.
Create a space just for your pet: Give your pet a space of their own in your home. Pet beds are great, but go one step further: Do you have a staircase in your house? Renovate the space to create an under-the-stairs doggie door leading to a nook where your pup can lounge. Are you a cat lover with an extra bedroom? Some cat owners create a “cat room” entirely for their favorite feline, replete with cat-friendly shelving for climbing, cat trees and more.
Be mindful of flooring: Forgo an excessive amount of carpet in your home and instead opt for hard-surface floors, which can be more pet-friendly. What type of flooring is ideal? “The best
floor is ceramic tile, because it’s easy to clean and resistant to any stain an animal can dish out. Tile is toenail-proof, it makes a room look sleek and elegant and it gives furry animals a cool place to nap during hot weather,” writes HGTV.
Incorporate your pet into your home decor: What better way to make your space pet-friendly than by using their likeness in your decorations? Commission and frame a portrait of your pet in your home office or buy a playful pillow with a similarlooking dog or cat on it. All you need is a little creativity!
Information from this article was sourced from oneforallpets.com, aspca.org, hippo.com, transformertable. com, aspcapro.org and hgtv.
Love Coffee ARE
or a daily ritual of such importance, a designated space to enjoy it makes perfect sense. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
1. Find a spot in your kitchen, dining area or any nook that has enough space for a small table or cart. Consider access to electrical outlets if you’ll be using an electric coffee maker.
2. Choose a coffee maker based on your preference (espresso machine, drip coffee maker, Keurig-style, French press, pour-over set, etc.). Purchase a quality burr grinder for the freshest brew. If you’re into pour-over or French press coffee, a gooseneck kettle is ideal for precise pouring. If you enjoy lattes or cappuccinos, consider a frother or steamer. Add an airtight container to keep coffee beans fresh.
LEGION
3. Now for the fun part, part one: Accessories. Set up a mug tree with your favorite mugs; keep a coffee scoop or digital scale within reach for accurate measurements. A thermometer is useful for heating water to the ideal temperature. Keep extra filters and drip trays accessible. For cleaning, microfiber cloths, descaling solution and brushes will keep your equipment clean.
4. Organize the space: Consider installing shelves above or near your coffee bar
for additional storage and display. Keep smaller items organized, like coffee pods, tea bags or sweeteners, with the aid of drawer dividers or baskets. Use trays to group items together to create a neat, cohesive look. Label airtight jars or containers to easily identify different coffee beans, teas or condiments.
5. Flavorings: Include sugar, honey, flavored syrups or alternative sweeteners; keep a variety of dairy and non-dairy milk options.
Consider adding cinnamon, nutmeg or cocoa powder for toppings.
6. The fun part, part two: Add a chalkboard or small sign with a coffee-related quote or menu. Small potted plants or herbs like mint or basil can add a fresh touch, but you can add a faux plant too. Hang a coffeethemed print or picture nearby. Add a paper towel stand for spills, a small lamp or undershelf lighting for ambiance, and your daily ritual becomes almost reverent. As it should be.
This story was compiled with the help of ChatGPT.
Times Total Media is the sales and marketing division of the Tampa Bay Times. Contact timestotalmedia@tampabay.com with questions.
The Pantone Color of the Year 2024
is Pretty as a
By Erin Feitsma, Times Total Media Correspondent
ith an increasingly chaotic world clamoring outside our doorsteps, now more than ever, we need our homes to serve as soothing sanctuaries. Calming tones and comforting spaces are the name of the game. As we bid adieu to the final hazy days of summer, tap into tranquility with the peaceful pastel hues of the Pantone Color of the Year 2024, Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz.
“A cozy peach hue softly nestled between pink and orange, Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz brings belonging (and) inspires recalibration and opportunity for nurturing, conjuring up an air of calm, offering us a space to be, feel and heal and to flourish from ... spending time with others or taking the time to enjoy a moment by ourselves,” shared Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone
Color Institute.
“Drawing comfort from Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz, we can find peace from within, impacting our well-being. An idea as much as a feeling, Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz awakens our senses to the comforting presence of tactility and cocooned warmth.”
Bringing to mind the pink-orange
fluff of a dandelion puff, it is as if Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz has floated in on a gentle end-of-summer breeze to grace your home with calming yet joyful design flourishes. If peach isn’t normally a color you reach for, start small with a textured throw pillow or vibrant accent rug. Two of several collaboration collections with Pantone make this endeavor easy, offering peachy items to incorporate into your living room, bedroom or home office.
The limited-edition Ruggable x Pantone collection boasts three rugs, plus a doormat and a bath mat, all in the playful Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz shade. Among the collection are a deliciously peach-tinted ombre rug and a cheeky bath mat that will make your home feel fresh with pops of peach but not oversaturate your space.
simple. Decor items range from geometric-patterned curtains to peachy pillows and floral throw blankets.
Make a more permanent upgrade to your home with peach-colored paint. Paint your living room walls or add a whimsical touch to the outside of your home with a Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz-colored front door. For an updated take on the classic terra cotta pot, refresh your indoor plants’ containers by painting them peach.
The Pantone Color of the Year 2024 was chosen in response to the tumult many of us have experienced in the world
lately. As a result, a color that evoked compassion, coziness and empathy offered a refreshing reset.
“In seeking a hue that echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection, we chose a color radiant with warmth and modern elegance,” Eiseman said. “(Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz is) a shade that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace and effortlessly bridges the youthful with the timeless.”
For more information on the Pantone Color of the Year 2024, visit pantone. com/color-of-the-year/2024.
Information from this article was sourced from pantone.com.
Beyond floor decor, the Spoonflower x Pantone collection offers Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz items for your walls, windows, couches and more. This collaboration includes an extensive assortment of vibrant wallpapers, fun fabrics and a myriad of home decor items that make decorating with peach surprisingly
A Beginner’s Guide to
trap after feeding it salami (I was 10). Other hearty houseplants include spider plants, cacti and ZZ plants.
Caring for INDOOR PLANTS
By Erin Feitsma, Times Total Media Correspondent
lice Walker once said, “In nature, nothing is perfect, and everything is perfect. Trees can be contorted, bent in weird ways, and they’re still beautiful.” Could the same be said for your half-dead, super crispy yet somehow still-living collection of old houseplants? Perhaps, provided that you become a proper plant parent and nurse them back to health. Here, enjoy a beginner’s guide (or a quick refresher) on caring for your indoor plants. Way to grow!
Start with what you can handle. How much time can you devote to taking care of your houseplants? If you’re perpetually busy or very new to plant care, start small with just one or two easy-to-take-care-of indoor plants. One of the best beginner-friendly varieties is the humble pothos plant, foolproof for even this writer who once killed a Venus fly-
Get the light right. Different plants have different light needs, so it’s important to consider what type of light is present in the rooms in your home. According to UF/IFAS, plants with low light needs, like peace lilies, should be placed in shaded areas that don’t receive a lot of natural light. Medium-light houseplants, like monstera plants, can be placed near a window but shouldn’t bask in direct sunlight (aim for unshaded north-facing windows or shaded east- or west-facing win dows). High-light houseplants, like fiddle leaf figs, can be placed near a window and enjoy some direct light (select unshaded east- or west-fac ing windows or shaded south-facing windows). Plants that need direct sunlight, like aloe plants, need to be placed directly in front of a window,
with at least four hours of exposure to the sun a day (these plants do best near unshaded south- or southwest-facing windows).
Identify your plant’s watering needs. How much water will your houseplant need? That depends.
finger through the top layer of soil to be sure). Certain plants may require their soil to completely dry out before they’re ready for water again, so it’s always wise to research your individual houseplant’s needs ahead of time. Also, keep in mind what season you’re in. During warm summer days, your houseplants may need more water than in the wintertime.
Consider your containers. You may choose to spruce up your space with houseplants in funky containers (think cartoon faces with your plant’s foliage serving as hair), but make sure your container doesn’t keep your plant sitting in standing water all day after you give it a drink. “Be sure your (plant’s) container provides adequate drainage,” advises UF/IFAS. “You can easily drill drainage holes or use a plastic liner pot inside of a
encourage healthy growth, inspect your plants every so often for driedout or dying leaves. Pruning away any withering stems will keep your houseplant healthy and looking its best.
Should you name your houseplant? Yes, 1,000%.
Why step up your houseplant game in the first place? Not only are there health benefits, such as stress reduction, that are associated with tending to indoor plants, but houseplants also elevate your home’s interior. Incorporating punches of green in your space with a small (or extensive) collection of houseplants is the ultimate home decor hack.
Information from this article was sourced from gardeningsolutions. ifas.ufl.edu, patchplants.com and piedmont.org
Do you want a
Smart Home?
YOU CAN START SMALL OR GO ALL OUT
smart home uses technology to provide convenience, security, energy efficiency and comfort. You can make changes and adaptations that make your home safer, improve your sleep, purify the air and reduce water and energy usage, among other things that weren’t possible even 20 years ago. Here are some common features of a smart home that you may choose to implement in your own space.
1. Lighting: Lights can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app or voice commands. Adjust brightness or change colors to match your mood or activities. Lights can turn on or off automatically based on room occupancy.
2. Comfort: Adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere using a mobile app. Some thermostats learn your schedule and preferences to optimize heating and cooling. An energy monitor can track your energy usage and suggest ways to save.
3. Security: can include a live video feed, motion detection and alerts to your phone; keyless entry, remote locking/unlocking and virtual guest keys; door/win dow sensors, glass break sen sors and motion detectors for security monitoring.
4. Applianc
es: Controlled remotely, smart home applianc es offer alerts (such as when the door is left open) and integrate with virtual assistants. Smart coffee makers, vacu
um cleaners and other smaller appliances can be scheduled and controlled via apps or voice commands.
5. Centralized control of smart home devices using voice commands (like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple’s Siri) is another feature. Play music, check the weather, control lights and set reminders, all from a central location.
6. Entertainment: Access streaming services,
grate with other smart home features. Control and synchronize music across multiple rooms.
7. Shades and drapes: These can be scheduled to open or close based on the time of day or sunlight levels, via smartphone apps or voice commands.
8. Watering: By using local weather data and landscape conditions to tailor watering schedules, weather-based irrigation controllers determine when and how much to water. This ensures that watering only happens if and when your yard actually needs it.
off the water supply to prevent damage.
consumption and costs.
Receive alerts on your phone when al lergens, pollutants, smoke or carbon monoxide is detected.
10. Leaks or flooding: Smart water leak and flood sensors alert you instantly if a leak is detected.
Integration with smart valves automatically shuts
Kit and Google Home) al low all smart devices to be controlled from one place. Set routines that trigger multiple devices at once, like a good night routine that turns off lights, locks doors and sets the thermostat.
13. Energy man agement: Moni tor and optimize energy generation and consumption. Real-time energy usage data can help reduce or control energy
14. Sleep trackers and smart mattresses monitor your sleep patterns and adjust the environment (room darkness, mattress tilt or firmness) for better rest. This article was compiled with the help of ChatGPT.
8 TRENDS in WINDOW TREATMENTS
indow treatments have become a focal point in interior design, with the latest trends emphasizing both aesthetics and functionality. Here are some of 2024’s trends:
1. Natural Materials and Textures
recycled polyester and natural fibers.
and a streamlined look.
sophistication and drama to rooms. Floral prints, geometric designs and abstract patterns add visual interest and personality, particularly in neutral or monochromatic spaces.
6. Smart Home Technology
More people are incorporating smart home technology, with motorized and remote-controlled blinds becoming increasingly popular for their convenience and compatibility with smart home systems.
7. Room Darkening
are
8. Metallic Accents
This article was built with the help of
Materials like bamboo, jute and other fibers are popular for bringing warmth and texture to spaces. Shades made from these materials allow light to filter through gently, creating a soft, diffused glow. Lightweight linen curtains continue to be popular, especially in neutral tones. They offer a relaxed, airy feel and are great for layering with other treatments.
2. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
Many are opting for sustainable materials such as organic cotton,
Sustainable window treatments align with the growing emphasis on environmental responsibility. Cellular shades (honeycomb shades) and insulated curtains help in temperature regulation, contributing to energy savings and reducing homes’ carbon footprints.
3. Minimalism
Sleek and simple roller shades, particularly in solid colors or subtle patterns, remain in vogue. They offer a minimalist look that complements modern interiors. Floor-to-ceiling drapes make a room feel taller and more spacious, emphasizing clean lines
4. Layering
Combining different types of treatments, such as sheer curtains with heavier drapes or blinds, adds dimension and allows for better control of light and privacy.
5. Bold Colors and Patterns
Colors like emerald green, deep blues and burgundy are being used to make a statement, adding
Particularly in bedrooms and media rooms, blackout curtains and shades that block out all light
“While there are many benefits to updating your homes’ blinds and shades, there are some benefits that stand out more than others. Energy Efficiency in a Florida home is crucial for lowering energy costs. Outdated blinds and shades may not have the insulation needed to properly regulate your indoor temperatures. Without that proper insulation your air conditioning system may be working overtime just to keep up with the Florida heat. “
–Peter Haggar, Owner, Blind and Shutter Gallery, St. Petersburg
ChatGPT.
Home Enhancements ANY BUDGET
FOR $1,500 OR LESS...
How about an electric wallmounted fireplace? Add drama and create a new focal point in your living room, bedroom or main bath. Rearrange your furnishings to focus on it, and set up a big basket nearby to hold blankets and extra pillows for cozy evenings. Of course, you could spend quite a bit more than $1,500 on an electric fireplace, but it’s not required.
Replace your front door. This is a change that really bumps up curb appeal, especially if you have a metal door and all that knocking over the years has left knuckle dents on the door’s exterior. This can also go up in cost, but doesn’t have to. If you like the door you have, but it needs some love, repaint it in a bold new color for a fraction of that price and enjoy the impact.
Have a plumber install a bidet attachment in your main bath. Trust me on this. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without one!
Epoxy your garage floor. Are you embarrassed by your garage? End the shame! In about a day, pros can make your garage look NEW with a durable epoxy coating. Maybe next month you can add shelving and storage. Now you have a functional garage that you are not scared to enter.
Nasty grout? Grout cleaning is an improvement that will make your home feel new, and will also help prevent mold and mildew. It’s a labor-intensive job, but for the effort you save by having a pro do it, it is worth every penny.
Have your roof and sidewalks pressure washed. You know how cleaning the interior of your car and vacuuming the upholstery makes your car feel almost new? Same concept: Your home will look fresher and better cared for afterward, almost as much as getting it repainted. Just wait until storm season has passed.
FOR $750 OR LESS...
Plant a couple of trees in your backyard. Once they are well established, set up a hammock between them, or perhaps a bench for two.
Install a water softener. Sick of all those water spots and mineral buildup? Or do you have a tendency to develop kidney stones? Softer water is the answer.
Install a ceiling fan on your front or back porch. In central Florida, there are a few choice days every year between Halloween and Easter when you can enjoy your porch, with morning coffee or evening sangria. An indoor/outdoor ceiling fan not only fends off wasps and adds atmosphere, but keeps you cooler while you watch the bird channel.
Replace your toilet with a more dependable model that uses less water. Unless you’re all-around handy, this is a job for a plumber. But a better, more efficient toilet will lift the profile of your whole bathroom.
Buy a wine fridge. If you especially love the whites and rosés, stash them here. It doesn’t have to be in the kitchen; some models are small and sleek enough to put just about anywhere. By the tub perhaps? Depending on size and features, prices average between $200 and $400, but can go all the way to $6,000.
FOR $300 OR LESS...
Upgrade your mailbox. Another curb appeal enhancer. Install a stick-on motion-activated light inside so you don’t miss anything when unloading your mailbox. Get a locking box if you worry about theft; beef up the post if vandalism is a concern.
Buy new towels. Ratchet up the luxury in your bathroom with plush, absorbent towels and washcloths that match. This particular upgrade will make you feel downright decadent.
Replace the doorknobs or pulls on every door. With matching metals throughout the home, everything will look more modern and put together.
Update the light fixture over your dining area. You can make a real difference in the function and visual impact of your dining area by updating the light. Redefine the decor by choosing a light with an arts and crafts feel, or one that has a farmhouse, beachy or urban loft vibe.
FOR $100 OR LESS...
Replace the drawer pulls and knobs in your kitchen. This is a relatively quick refresh that makes your kitchen look more updated.
Hang a seasonal wreath on your front door. Another curb appeal enhancer, this also creates a sense of invitation to anyone who visits. Add a welcome mat
By
that complements the colors and look of the wreath, plus a couple of potted accent plants (they don’t have to be real, just convincing), and voila! Curb appeal for days!
Information for this article was gathered from Electricfireplacesdirect.com, garageflooringpros.com, forbes.com, angi.com, thespruce.com
“Home improvements offer more than just aesthetic upgrades—they enhance comfort, functionality, and the overall value of your home. Whether it’s a small renovation or a large-scale remodel, investing in your living space creates a lasting impact that makes everyday life more enjoyable.”
- Manny Kavouklis, President, CMK Kitchen and Bath
Sally Moe, Times Total Media Correspondent
Find your ideal home decorating style with this 7 QUESTION QUIZ
1. How would you describe your ideal living space?
A. Cozy and traditional, with lots of classic elements like a fireplace and antique furniture.
B. Sleek and modern, featuring clean lines, minimal clutter and innovative design.
C. Eclectic and vibrant, showcasing a mix of patterns, colors and unique finds from different eras.
D. Rustic and earthy, with natural materials like wood and stone, and a warm, inviting feel.
E. Elegant and glamorous, with luxurious fabrics, metallic accents and a sophisticated ambience.
2. What’s your go-to activity on a weekend?
A. Curling up with a good book or watching a classic movie in a comfy setting.
B. Visiting art galleries or exploring modern architecture and design.
C. Shopping at flea markets or thrift stores for unique, oneof-a-kind items.
D. Hiking or spending time outdoors, appreciating nature and its beauty.
E. Attending a formal event or hosting a dinner party with a touch of luxury.
3. Choose the color palette that appeals to you most:
A. Warm, rich tones like deep reds, golds and dark woods.
B. Neutral shades, such as white, gray and black, with occasional pops of bold color.
C. Bright, electric hues like turquoise, magenta and lime green.
D. Earthy tones like olive green, terra cotta and warm browns.
E. Sophisticated tones, such as navy blue, emerald green and metallics.
4. What type of artwork or decorations do you prefer?
A. Classic paintings, ornate mirrors and vintage family heirlooms.
B. Abstract art, sleek sculptures and contemporary pieces.
C. Vintage posters, quirky knick-knacks and eclectic wall hangings.
D. Nature-inspired art, handmade crafts and rustic decorations.
E. High-end artwork, elegant frames and opulent decorative pieces.
hether you can’t pinpoint the interior design style that resonates with you most, or you’re simply looking to upgrade your home’s aesthetic, this seven question home decorating quiz will help you find the style that makes you smile.
5. How do you like your furniture arrangements?
A. Traditional, with a focus on symmetry and classic arrangements.
B. Minimalist, with carefully chosen pieces and an emphasis on open space.
C. Flexible and varied, with a mix of styles and unexpected combinations.
D. Functional and cozy, with an emphasis on comfort and practicality.
E. Luxurious and curated, with a focus on high-qualty pieces and a polished look.
6. What’s your approach to lighting in your home?
A. Soft, ambient lighting with a few statement chandeliers or lamps.
B. Bright, modern lighting with sleek fixtures and clean lines.
C. A mix of eclectic lighting options, including vintage and colorful pieces.
D. Warm, natural lighting with candles and lanterns for a rustic feel.
E. Elegant lighting, such as crystal chandeliers and
stylish sconces.
7. What kind of textiles and fabrics do you enjoy?
A. Rich, luxurious fabrics like velvet and brocade in deep, traditional colors.
B. Simple, high-quality materials like leather and cotton in neutral tones.
C. Fun, vibrant patterns and textures from various cultures and periods.
D. Natural, earthy fabrics like linen, wool and burlap.
E. Elegant, opulent fabrics like silk and satin in sophisticated hues.
SCORING:
Mostly A’s: You favor a traditional home decor style. You appreciate classic designs, comfort and timeless elegance. Fill your home with an abundance of wooden furniture, floral rugs, oil paintings and neutral colors.
Mostly B’s: You enjoy a modern home decor style. You lean toward sleek, minimalist designs with a focus on
functionality and clean aesthetics. You may be drawn to glass coffee tables, geometric-patterned rugs, abstract art and large mirrors.
Mostly C’s: You have an eclectic design style. You love mixing and matching different styles, colors and patterns to create a unique and personal space. Spice up your home with a brightly colored sofa, industrial lighting, a mishmash of different textures and colors and paintings from local artists.
Mostly D’s: You have a rustic decor style. You enjoy natural materials and a warm, inviting atmosphere with a touch of the outdoors. Bring the outside in with furniture made from reclaimed wood, jute rugs, wrought-iron light fixtures and cozy flannel throw blankets.
Mostly E’s: You have a glamorous design style. You prefer high-end, luxurious elements and sophisticated, polished decor. Liven up your home with rich, bold colors, metallic accents, glossy flooring, lavish wallpaper and a velvet sofa.
This quiz was generated using ChatGPT.
