River Valley Real Estate Magazine May 2020

River Valley Real Estate

&HOME HOME May 2020

Beautiful View Of The Arkansas River

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River Valley Real Estate

&HOME HOME

FEATURES

CONTENTS

STAY PRODUCTIVE WORKING FROM HOME .........................................................................3 2020 KITCHEN TRENDS .........................................................................................................................7 FORT SMITH HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION .....................................................................9 PROJECT BUILDING HOPE ................................................................................................................12 WHEN YOU NEED A PERMIT ...........................................................................................................13 EXPERT TIPS ON BEDROOM DECOR..........................................................................................22 CHANGE YOUR SPACE, CHANGE YOUR MOOD...................................................................23 CRAWFORD COUNTY BOARD OF REALTORS ......................................................................25 INDOOR GARDEN ...................................................................................................................................27

May 2020

Beautiful View Of The Arkansas River

Cover design by Christy Morrison

Multi Media Sales Executive

Sharee Shelton

Design Coordinator

River Valley Real Estate

Christy Morrison

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The opinions and observations expressed in River Valley Real Estate & Home are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Times Record.

Volume 13, Number 1 River Valley Real Estate & Home, a magazine of the TImes Record published 12 times a year. © Copyright 2020 Times Record

Advertising information is available from Sharee Shelton at (479) 785-7700 ext 1322 or sshelton@swtimes.com

&HOME

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Arvest Bank .....................................................................24 McGraw Realtors...........................................................20 Chuck Fawcett Realty...........................................14-16 Quantum Property Services ..............................10-11 Citizens Bank..................................................................28 Ronald Ragon Realty ...................................................21 Cobblestone ....................................................................17 Stoneshire .........................................................................8 First Financial Bank .....................................................26 Weichert Realtors - The Griffin Company........4-6 Keller Williams Platinum Realty .....................18-19 Western Arkansas Title ..............................................22

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Stay

By Nicole Cavazos ZipRecruiter.com

productive when

working

from

home

W

hile a work-from-home setup definitely has its perks, it has some common pitfalls as well, most notably the tendency to succumb to procrastination and distraction.

Here are some ideas on how to make your work-from-home days more productive.

Know thyself By this time, you probably have a pretty good idea of your working style —when you’re most productive, what working environments you prefer, what distracts you.

Working remotely often gives you more control over those things.

Although some people working from home on a part-time basis often need to adhere to regular work hours, consultants and freelancers usually have more flexibility. So, if you’re someone who thrives on working late at night, for instance, now could be your chance to take advantage of that.

Create a schedule and stick to it The best way to stay on task is by making a list of things to do and creating a schedule to do them. Set priorities. If all your personal and professional tasks are accounted for on your schedule, this will free you from the nagging feeling that you’re forgetting to do something. Apps that can help you plan your workday include Fantastical 2, Things 3, Schedule Planner, Todoist and Trello.

Block distractions It’s difficult to separate your personal and professional life when working from home. Dinner needs to be made, floors need sweeping and you’ve got errands to run. Social media, the Internet, TV, your refrigerator, plus there’s the phone…

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Make sure that friends and family know your schedule and honor it.

Anticipate and remove as many distractions as possible. This might include arranging for childcare, or locking your office or bedroom door. Build in specific times to answer emails, phone calls and texts so you’re not constantly checking them.

If you find that the lure of the Internet, Facebook or email is too great, there are numerous apps that can help, including Cold Turkey, Freedom and RescueTime.

Track your time One of the most effective ways to stay focused is by tracking your time. You can either do this with a good old-fashioned pen and paper or with an app such as Toggl, Timely, HourStack or many others. These online apps are especially useful if you need to send the client a record of your hours. And having an actual record of your hours makes you more accountable to yourself.

Set goals Working in an office requires a level of transparency that’s often missing when working at home. It’s easy to fall behind when there’s nobody around to regularly chart your progress. To stay on target, it helps to break down a project into smaller pieces that include daily goals and weekly deadlines. Work your way back to make sure you are allotting enough time to complete the project.

Answer to someone Finally, nothing keeps you motivated like having to answer to someone. Ideally, there’s somebody at the client’s office who you report to. If not, you can ask a trusted friend or colleague to assume the role. Just make sure you both take it seriously. Arrange regular check-ins and make sure they’re willing to hold you accountable and encourage you to stay on task.

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2020

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kitchen trends

“Now more than ever people are looking to bring the dining table back into the kitchen so you can sit facing each other and communicate while eating.”

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Anna Gibson, AKG Design Studio

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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tandout kitchen islands, statement backsplashes and vinyl flooring are all popular choices among homeowners adding or upgrading, according to the 2020 Houzz Kitchen Trends Study.

Nearly two-thirds of kitchen renovations include an island, which is a hub of activity for dining, socializing and entertainment.

In today’s very virtual, social media world people are looking to connect when it comes to dinnertime, said Anna Gibson, owner and chief designer of AKG Design Studio in Great Falls, Virginia.

“Now more than ever people are looking to bring the dining table back into the kitchen so you can sit facing each other and communicate while eating,” she said. The push will be to create seating on at least two sides to restore a sense of family and connection.

Kitchen islands are growing, with a third measuring more than 7 feet and another 39% 6 to 7 feet, according to the study.

“As for the style, we are moving more toward the contemporary and clean lines, so there are great elements like

a waterfall edge that make a big wow factor and a finished look,” Gibson said.

While two-tone colors continue to be popular, we’ll see a return to the organic with walnut and dark wood and natural stone, especially quartzite and granite.

“Natural stone is organic, green and most of all unique. Every slab is different, and it’s letting us create one-of-kind islands and space for our clients,” Gibson said.

Making a statement One in 10 homeowners upgrading a backsplash goes bold, installing it all the way to the ceiling, with white being the most popular color followed by multicolored and gray, according to the study.

“I love this trend and hope it will continue,” Gibson said. “For me, tile is always the cherry on top since it is the focal point and can set the tone for space and style.”

Install the same kitchen cabinets and granite with two different backsplash tiles, and it will be a completely different-style kitchen, Gibson said.

“Running tile to the ceiling really adds the extra touch and interesting factor to the design. It works great with the open shelving and cabinets because it helps define the space and really

dress up the wall, especially when we use floating shelves,” Gibson said.

Vinyl on the rise Vinyl flooring, the third overall choice in renovated kitchens, continues a three-year climb from 10% in 2018 and 12% in 2019 to 14% in 2020.

Vinyl flooring fits busy and active homeowners’ lifestyles.

“For someone looking for materials that are durable and easy to maintain it’s a big plus,” Gibson said. “For years we didn’t have the good midway material between tile and hardwood, and the luxury vinyl tile/luxury vinyl plank closes this gap. It is great for basements, high traffic areas and can withstand kids, dogs, heavy traffic and is water-resistant.

“With the added wood look, it’s making a great option for families across different stages of life. It is easy to install, which is an added bonus for the DIY market.”

No hands “Cabinet and drawer handles will be very discreet in 2020 — even nonexistent,” said Gibson, referring to manufacturers’ push-to-open options.

Streamlined and elegant, handleless cabinets complement the minimalism and clean lines of Scandinavian and contemporary design, Gibson said.

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CONTACT: Stephanie Stipins 479-452-6213 sstipins@fortsmithhomebuilders.com www.fortsmithhomebuilders.com

A HOME SUMMER SHAPE UP AMID CORONAVIRUS CONCERNS

BY STEPHANIE STIPINS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, THE GREATER FORT SMITH ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS Replace Windows and Inspect the Roof: Sometimes wear and tear on your body affects your ability to stay in the game.

Wear and tear on your windows over time can lead to energy dollars escaping outdoors. New windows are a great place to increase the energy efficiency of your home and provide a return on investment. Replacing older windows will help prevent heat loss during the winter months and provide more indoor comfort.

If your roof is getting up there in age like you, have a roofer check for any damage around the chimney, pipes and skylights. If it is time for repairs, think about a cool roof that contains materials Temperature Check: Most of us have been checking our body that reflect the sun’s heat. temperatures regularly during this health pandemic, but what about your home’s temperature? Installing a programmable Landscape: Keeping up appearances might not be at the thermostat helps you save on cooling costs now and heating forefront of your stay-at-home routine, but planting trees and pruning shrubs can brighten up the exterior of your home and costs this winter. The device allows you to customize indoor could also brighten your mood.And before the heat of the summer temperatures throughout the day based on your schedule, takes over your lawn, check the condition of your sprinklers and helping to lower your utility bills. Installing ceiling fans can also garden irrigation for their optimal use during summer months. provide energy-efficient cooling and comfort during the long, dog Inspect and Clean Your Dryer Vents: Clothes dryers are likely days of summer. getting a workout during quarantine even if you’re not. Dryer HVAC Tune-up: Just like a regular doctor’s check-up, checking vents get clogged with lint, preventing them from functioning the condition of your air conditioner before you notice a problem well. Clogged vents take longer to dry clothes, in turn increasing with it should be routine. Be sure to have a qualified professional your utility bills. They are also one of the leading causes of house fires. Have a professional inspect and clean your dryer vents and also replace your filter before contractor availability gets ensure your exhaust system is working properly. We want you to challenging during busy summer months. If your air conditioner stay safe and be prepared for the months ahead. For more home is in good shape, think about other ways to keep your home cool, maintenance tips to tackle as we head into summer, contact The like adding curtains, shades or blinds to windows to help block Greater Fort Smith Association of Home Builders, www. fortsmithhomebuilders.com out the sun’s intense rays.

The onset of summer is typically a perfect time to refresh your home. And this year, with public health officials asking many of us to stay at home for weeks or months to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, this might be a particularly good time to make a few simple home improvements that can help you avoid significant repairs or costly utility bills later in the year.

Below are some tips to help get your home in shape for summer, inside and out.

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Lakia is a single mother of two great kids that lost everything to the recent flooding in Fort Smith. As volunteers began removing drywall they exposed tons of mold, rotted studs and floor joists. They saw a need for much more. So we want to bring the community together for a civic project to rebuild a safe home for her and her kids. We are seeking monetary donations, supplies and professional services. If you are willing to donate in this effort please utilize the contact information below.

479.452.6213 • stephanie@fortsmithhomebuilders.com

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WHEN YOU NEED A

PERMIT

By Melissa Erickson

T

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Types, costs of permits

What needs a permit While most contractors will know what permits are needed, it can be confusing for Every town or city will have its homeowners. here may be trouble down the line if you “The real issue comes when it’s time to sell the own list of required building think you can get away without pulling house; if there’s a major upgrade and there was a permit for a home improvement or permits. According to Fixr, no inspection done so the house doesn’t have a remodeling project. Some projects need a general permit types may record of the change, that’s when there could be permit and others don’t. It’s best to check include: an issue,” Miguelez said. ahead.

Projects that go beyond simple repairs or • Demolition, $200 Permits can be annoying, but they are there aesthetic upgrades — such as adding supporting for safety reasons to make sure work done is • Alterations and repairs, walls or taking down load-bearing walls, roof up to code, said Cristina Miguelez, remodeling $200 to $500 depending replacement or adding a deck, pool or concrete specialist at Fixr, an online marketplace for driveway — are all examples of projects that on scope of job home remodeling services. would require permits, according to the National A permit will help keep a project safe from • Swimming pool, $260 Association of the Remodeling Industry. potential issues such as structural damage, Smaller or cosmetic upgrades such as • New home construction, fire hazards and health risks. For example, changing a sink, faucet or light fixture, painting, $1,000 to $2,000 the correct permitting can assure a pressure carpeting, adding wall decorations or repairing balancing valve beneath a standalone tub filler something that already exists often don’t require • New green construction, is installed properly so no one gets burned, she permits, Miguelez said. $1,000 to $2,000 Obtaining a permit protects a homeowner’s said. investment in the property.

When a permit is filed local government will “You need a permit if you make a big change or inspect completed work to ensure it complies upgrade and you intend to sell because without with health and safety codes.

“In most cases to get a permit you need a detailed plan,” Miguelez that record you may need to have it ripped out and done again,” Miguelez said. said. “You could be turned down because what you submitted Permitting varies depending on location. wasn’t detailed enough, or didn’t have the right parts, such as that “Some towns have very forgiving inspectors, others will insist on grid drain or special P-trap. Sometimes you can hire a contractor to opening a wall to look at what’s inside. You really can’t know, so if submit the plans for you, which can help you get approved.” you plan on making a big change, you need to call your town hall Homeowners often don’t want to wait for approval or to spend and find out what’s required,” Miguelez said. “In Massachusetts, for the money on a permit. Others may not be aware permits are example, you need a grid drain in a vessel sink, but in Rhode Island, needed for smaller projects. you don’t. However, in Rhode Island, you need a different P-trap “You really can’t know unless you do the research,” Miguelez said. than nearly any other state.

“Yes, it’s annoying, but it’s better to do it right the first time than risk “You can’t find these things out unless you ask, so always check and if it needs a permit, get one.” having to do it twice because you tried to bypass the law.”

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Monica Ibison 479.926.6363

7301 Phoenix Ave, Fort Smith

Ibison@kw.com www.IbisonRealtors.com

LARGE LOT

SALT WATER POOL

FARMHOUSE BEAUTY!

BUILT FOR MAKING MEMORIES!

2317 RAMSGATE WAY, FORT SMITH

Lovely french country style home offering 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, formal dining, a home office or flex room and a great open concept plan. Fireplace, pantry, quartz countertops, painted cabinets and stainless appliances in the updated kitchen. Extra storage room in the oversized garage plus linen storage and large under stair closet. Home offers New HVAC & New roof, fresh paint and beautiful curb appeal. You'll love the 17' ceilings and natural light! Oversized deck, a great backyard with shade trees and privacy $224,900

8317 REATA ST. FORT SMITH Gorgeous one level home in Reata at Chaffee Crossing! 2,446 sq/ft offering 4 bedrooms (incl. a 2nd Master Suite!) and 3 full bathrooms arranged in a split plan. Lovely finishes include hardwood flooring, crown molding, a gas cooktop, generous closets and built-ins.

Outdoor memories are waiting to be made! Enjoy the covered patio and bar, built in grill & mini fridge overlooking the salt water pool.

Tree shaded front yard, 3 car garage with epoxy floor and privacy fenced yard. Room for pets too! Home & neighborhood entrance security w/ cameras, irrigation, surround sound & more

1036 POINT ROYAL LOOP, CHARLESTON New construction home in Point Royal subdivision on a .59 acre lot. Quality built by Pinnacle Point Homes, LLC with wood look luxury vinyl, energy efficient appliances, gray/white designer paint and a fabulous farm house exterior! Open concept main areas and an abundance of cabinets and countertop space with breakfast bar in kitchen. Split bedroom plan with a luxe Master; plenty of natural light throughout and a one year builder warranty. Call today to add your custom touches to this home! $224,500

2615 EDGEWATER DR, GREENWOOD Start planning for summer fun! This gorgeous estate is stay-cation central for you and your guests - enjoy the large diving pool, hot tub and multiple gathering spaces in the backyard gardens. Unbelievable game room includes a fully equipped bar, foosball and pool table. 3rd floor private master suite with convenient laundry room and wrap around porch to appreciate the lake views. Each guest bedroom boasts it’s own private en suite bathroom. Luxurious and high end finishes throughout plus guest space in the basement along with a theater room. Shown by appointment to pre-approved buyers please $589,000

DETACHED GARAGE

WORKSHOP

NEW CONSTRUCTION

POOL & BONUS ROOM

2901 HENDRICKS BLVD, FORT SMITH A home you’ll love coming home to! Centrally located and full of charm and updates with gorgeous refinished wood floors, built-ins and trims throughout. The brick fireplace is a lovely focal point in the sunlight filled living area. Kitchen with island cooktop, large pantry, wall oven and plenty of cabinets is perfect for meal prep and gathering. The sun room steps out to the tree shaded backyard and detached 1 car garage with a new overhead door. Master suite offers a walk in closet & private bathroom. $150,000

1008 N. DAISY, GREENWOOD Perfect location!!! Open concept main areas make gatherings easy and enjoyable and the traditional bedroom plan ensures a quiet nights sleep even with night owls in the house. Beautifully updated bathrooms including glass pane shower doors, new lighting and flooring. Extra linen closets, a pantry and laundry room with storage in addition to the shop and attic storage space. Oversized lot with mature trees, a dream shop with electric and plenty of outdoor entertaining space. $121,500

717 NEWTON ST., CHARLESTON Quality new construction by Pinnacle Point Homes offering the farmhouse touches you’re looking for!

Beautifulwoodlookvinylflooringthroughout,designer paint colors; upgraded fixtures, doors and lighting & plenty of closet space in the bedrooms and baths.

Spacious laundry room; plenty of natural light and a great sized corner lot all located in the desirable Charleston school district and just a few minutes to shopping or local restaurants. This all electric home is energy efficient & won’t last long! $119,500

11012 SAINT KARR WAY, FORT SMITH

Belle Chasse beauty - Situated in a low traffic neighborhood this home checks all the boxes on your list! Split bedroom plan offer private master suite with dual vanitys and walk in closets; wood flooring; theater room including all equipment and theater seating; wine fridge; pantry; and all the fine finishes you want in a home. The heated pool will provide year round fun plus there’s plenty of room for pets or play sets in the backyard! This is one you don’t want to miss! $370,000

PAYMENTS LOWER THAN RENT!

ATTENTION INVESTORS!

BONUS ROOM

LARGE WORKSHOP

3013 INDEPENDENCE ST, FORT SMITH Prime location in much desired school district! Close to shopping; restaurants and parks and is just perfect for someone who loves the character of homes in an established neighborhood and you’ll have the peace of mind offered by the pre-inspection that has been completed! Updates have been done for you - kitchen counter tops, appliances; flooring; completely remodeled bathroom; newly shingled roof and fresh exterior paint.

You’ll adore the original wood floors and the sunlight streaming in through the large picture window. Weekend cook outs and gatherings are easy in the oversized tree shaded backyard. Take a look today! $99,900

108 W. WOOD ST, MANSFIELD This adorable farm house offers many charming features and comes complete with slamming screen doors. Well loved by the same family since it’s original construction and ready for a new family. Live comfortably as is or restore it’s original beauty and build equity! Situated on 4 city lots (.69 acres) with mature trees and plenty of room to add-on a room, build a shop or grow a thriving garden. Detached garage, new cook stove, wood floors, updated bathroom and a lovely open plan for easy gathering. $50,000

2105 ASPEN TERRACE, GREENWOOD This charming open concept home is filled with natural light and offers plenty of gathering space! Family room with gas log fireplace; Kitchen with island, builtins and grilling patio access. Master with en suite bath & walk in closet; Game room is perfect for football parties, movie nights or overnight guests. Low traffic cul-de-sac location with privacy fenced yard, 2 storage buildings and a fabulous oversized covered deck.

Convenient to Westwood Elementary School, shopping and access to Hwy 71 for commuters. $129,900

711 LUCY AVENUE, SALLISAW Large yard AND a shop! Spacious and updated home on a corner lot offering 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths and has been updated with beautiful vinyl plank flooring; fresh interior paint; new lighting; new water heater; new counter tops and new plumbing fixtures. Plenty of room for the family and for guests in the formal dining room and 2 large living areas. You’ll love the sunroom with tile flooring and all the fabulous outdoor space this home provides including a nice grilling patio. Beautiful wood burning fireplace w/ gas starter in the family room and a really nice flow for gathering. Master suite has a huge closet and a private bathroom. Attached 2 car side entry garage and detached 1 car shop w/ additional storage and workshop space. $150,000

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Monica Ibison 479.926.6363

7301 Phoenix Ave, Fort Smith

Ibison@kw.com www.IbisonRealtors.com

The HUB at Providence by ERC How big is your backyard? At The HUB your backyard is limitless!

The trail system, nature center & plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy are just out your front door plus you’ll have ample time to enjoy them because you have absolutely no exterior maintenance responsibilities! Relax and appreciate the flowers, plantings and scenery of each season from your front porch or covered balcony or step out to the community courtyard for a little more space...you won’t find the ease and carefree lifestyle that’s offered here anywhere else.

Choose between 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath townhouse with elevator or 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath townhomes with a flex room; both of which offer granite countertops; bar seating in addition to formal/informal dining space; stainless steel appliances including gas ranges; pot fillers; luxury vinyl flooring; 9’ ceilings and gorgeous moldings throughout... so many luxurious upgrades.

Every bedroom is generous in size and boasts en suite baths and walk in closets. Plenty of natural light, cozy fireplaces, large laundry rooms, drop zones and extra storage closets.

Whether you are looking to buy or just looking, we have in-person or video tours available just let us know how we can help! #thehublife #livethehublife #thehub

Modern. Comfortable. Community.

1293 PHILLIPS RD, BOONEVILLE Lovely custom home on over 152 acres with approx 60 acres of pasture ready for cattle. Well maintained and move in ready 2,600 sq/ft with 4 beds and 2.5 baths in the main home plus approx 1,000 sq/ft in the guest house off the detached garage. Energy efficient, all electric with 2x6 walls, metal roof and fresh, clean water sourced from your private lake. Custom hickory cabinetry throughout, huge walk in pantry, wood look tile flooring; built ins and extra closets galore. 5 separately fenced pastures each with it’s own pond; 3 stall horse barn with drive through doors; and a boat house with fishing posts.

Shown by appointment to pre-approved buyers $680,000 RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME - MAY 2020 | 19

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Expert tips on bedroom decor, design

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

I

mprove your bedroom with these tips from interior design experts.

• Face bed toward door: “Sometimes this just isn’t possible, but if it is it should be your go-to,” said Justin Riordan, interior designer, architect and founder of the Portland, Seattle and Los Angeles home staging company Spade and Archer Design Agency. “Ideally your bed should be placed on the wall you immediately face when you walk in. It should welcome you into the room, gently persuading you to jump right in.”

• Mix it up: “I think one of the biggest mistakes people make when decorating their bedrooms is wanting all of the furniture and/or bedding to match,” said interior designer Doreen Amico-Sorell

of Sorell Interiors, Long Island, New York. “Over the past few years we have gotten away from that design aesthetic to where it is OK and actually preferred from a design standpoint to have things not match but instead go well together, where it is pleasing to the eye in a cohesive manner.”

• Light it up: “The biggest mistake I see in bedrooms of any size is not enough lighting,” said Jill Hosking-Cartland, owner and principal designer of Hosking Interiors, Windham, New Hampshire.

“A good general lighting plan will assure you have enough task lighting (nightstand lamps), ambient lighting (to find clothes or get dressed) and accent lighting (like wall sconces). Put every fixture on a dimmer to have complete control over both the functional and the mood lighting.”

• Attach a bath: “Having an attached

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bathroom in a master bedroom is no longer a luxury, but an expectation in modern homes,” said Brad Little, president of Case Design/ Remodeling in Charlotte, North Carolina. “So whether you’re planning your remodel for resale or to increase your home’s comfort, we strongly advise including your bathroom in your master suite upgrade.”

• Avoid clutter: “Especially in smaller homes, it can be convenient to outfit your bedroom for things other than sleep,” said Karin Sun, founder of Crane & Canopy, an online provider of luxury bedding, bath and lifestyle goods. “While we understand the merit of an office or exercise space in the bedroom, related items can often distract and clutter.

If this separation is impossible, keep stylish storage readily available to keep clutter out of sight and mind.”

CHANGE YOUR

SPACE, CHANGE YOUR MOOD PHOTO COURTESY OF AMERICAN SIGNATURE INC.

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ometimes a small change can make a big difference for stylish interior design, especially when it comes to arranging furniture. The way pieces are placed can make a room feel welcome and inviting or confusing and closed off.

Furniture arrangement can be tricky.

Personal taste is part of the equation when purchasing furniture and decor, but taste has nothing to do with arranging a room, said Ricky Gonzalez, visual merchandising creative director at Value City Furniture and American Signature Furniture.

“Even though taste and the things you like are important, you also have to understand the functionality of a room. Sometimes your taste gets in the way of functionality,” he said.

To make your space look amazing, consider what your goals are.

“Great moments can be created when you consider the use of space. For example, if you are entertaining, you have to consider how much space you have and balance out your seating and tables,” Gonzalez said.

How will you be using the room? Do you want a cozy sanctuary or a party place? Do people have to move through to get from one

room to another? Do you want an open floor plan or a more divided one?

“Before changing a room, find an image of what you like. This will make it easier than creating from nothing,” Gonzalez said.

Go for good energy Arranging a living room according to feng shui, which is a way to orient and organize a room to positively affect mood and well-being, works well to create a pleasing environment.

“I do not follow all the principles but pay attention to how the furniture faces when one walks into the room,” Gonzalez said. “And, understanding how you plan to use that room is key to creating a space for great moments.”

Create a focal point “Rooms should always be anchored by a main piece, and making that piece special means you will smile every time you walk into that room,” Gonzalez said.

While many living rooms spotlight the TV, a better alternative would be a statement piece of furniture like a sectional sofa or design aspect of a room such as a fireplace, picture window, eye-catching piece of art or striking architectural feature.

Clear a path Regardless of a room’s size, it should be easy to navigate. Crowded rooms are less

functional.

“Don’t clutter up the entrance of a home or room, and make sure two people can fit through entry areas,” Gonzalez said.

To view or not to view When it comes to windows the most important thing is whether you want to see the view, Gonzalez said. Ignoring the windows, first determine where you would place seating or table.

“Then you can look at where the windows are. You can always put a sofa in front of windows with a sofa table behind and add curtains or window treatments to diminish the light,” he said.

Finishing touches “To complete a room and mark the space, rugs are great. They can make a room look bigger or smaller depending on the room needs,” Gonzalez said.

Use accents to add style.

“Lamps and chandeliers anchor spaces, too.

Chandeliers are my favorite to use whenever possible,” he said.

Once you start rearranging furniture, finish the room.

“If you don’t finish it fully, you tend to give up and try another style before completing what you started,” Gonzalez said.

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By Melissa Erickson

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PLANTING

By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

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ouseplants and indoor garden rooms are having a moment, probably thanks to the lush looks posted to social media accounts.

“I think as people continue to look for ways to escape hectic lives and try to find a place to unwind, garden rooms will continue to grow in popularity,” said Amy Enfield, spokeswoman for Bonnie Plants.

“They are a great place to unwind, tend to plants regardless of the weather outside and destress. For people who live in parts of the country where the winters are long, it allows them to grow plants year-round, and not just houseplants.”

The indoor gardening trend has been growing for the last five-plus years in a way that can be compared to the enthusiasm for houseplants seen in the ’70s, said Shane Pliska, president of Planterra, a West Bloomfield, Michigan-based interior landscape firm that provides plants to workplaces throughout the United States and Canada. The difference now is that people are using them as a design element, Pliska said.

‘Became a lifestyle’ “Millennials are especially involved with houseplants and exotics,” said Megan Wages, owner of Fancy Free Nursery in Tampa, Florida. “People started greening their spaces, which grew into the parenting of houseplants.

What started as indoor plant styling became a lifestyle.”

Plants are something to come home to, to care about, to love.

“First of all, plants are beautiful,” said Kerbi Howat, owner of Flora plant shops in Nashville and Franklin, Tennessee. “There are different sizes, shapes and structures that can complement the desired aesthetic for a space.

Additionally, studies have shown that plants improve air quality, boost creativity and focus, and simply make people happy. There is also a therapeutic element to caring for your own plants and watching them grow.”

Considerations Before giving this trend a try, think about what you want in your garden room, how you will use the room and what plants to grow, Enfield said.

“Do you want a tropical paradise or have access to fresh herbs and veggies year-round?” she asked.

Consider light, temperature, humidity and airflow.

“Unless you have a sunroom that gets lots of natural light, you will likely need to add lights to the room,” Enfield said. “Fluorescent lighting, specialty grow light bulbs, even LEDs will all work in a garden room.

“Plants need good airflow to grow well.

Adding a ceiling fan would be a great option to help keep the air circulating. Most plants, especially during the dry winter months, also benefit from having a humidifier in the room to help increase the humidity.”

How to start Start with one type of plant that needs the

same type of light and watering schedule, such as philodendron, and grow them in groups, Wages said.

“If you’re a beginner, start small. You want to make sure you understand how to care for plants successfully before you invest a lot of money. Also, get educated,” Howat said. “It’s OK to start with just a few plants and then add more to your room as your plant knowledge and confidence grows. Don’t be afraid to experiment with plants, and add seasonal plants like Christmas cactus, poinsettias, spring bulbs and amaryllis to your room.”

“The staple plant for many garden rooms is going to be houseplants,” Enfield said. “Great houseplants for beginners include spider plant, pothos, snake plant, ZZ plant, peace lily and ponytail palm. Succulents and cacti are also great for beginners as long as you give them lots of light. If you want to add a pop of color to your space, look for Phalaenopsis (or moth orchids) or African violets.”

“Succulents seem easy, but they thrive on neglect. People want to love them to death,” Wages said.

From the fiddle leaf fig to the rubber tree, Swiss cheese plant (monstera deliciosa) to bird of paradise, more is more in a garden room.

“An abundance of plants is luxe,” said Pliska, offering these tips: • Don’t be shy.

• Buy what you like.

• If it’s not working out, don’t get emotionally attached. Get rid of what is dying or doesn’t work.

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PHOTOS: FREEPIK/BIGSTOCK

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Indoor garden rooms are havens for relaxation, nurturing

RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME - MAY 2020 | 27

28 | MAY 2020 - RIVER VALLEY REAL ESTATE & HOME