WILLMAR — As the Christmas trimmings are put away and people's attention turns to resolutions and fresh starts, the start of the new year can also be a great time to rearrange a living room or remodel a kitchen.
For more than 40 years, the Interior Design Studio in downtown Willmar has been helping its clients find their design style and create their dream living spaces.
"Each project is unique and customized to the client," said Katie Morgan, who purchased IDS in 2020 after having worked at the business for 20 years.
IDS can provide pretty much everything a person needs to redecorate their home from indoor and outdoor furniture to rugs, lights, window treatments and bedding. The business also offers personalized design services. The design services at IDS begin with a client meeting. Popular projects at IDS include space planning, furniture layouts and selections, color consultations and remodeling projects including kitchens and bathrooms.
"I meet with the client to assess the space, define styles, needs and budget," Morgan said.
Probably the most important step in a renovation project is to have a detailed plan and budget in place before making a single purchase or swinging the sledgehammer. Once a design plan and budget have been finalized, then construction, installation, and delivery can transform the plan into a finished project, IDS available at every step.
"It is a one-stop design shop for your home," Morgan said.
There are many different interior design themes to choose from. There are styles based on historical or design eras such as Art Deco or Victorian; styles based on the natural world like coastal; a place like
southwestern, Mediterranean or French country; or an aesthetic such as traditional, transitional or modern. A design style can also be built around a feeling or vibe, such as "hygge," a Danish concept that means cozy.
Just like fashion, there are trends in interior design as well, with some styles more popular than others. Right now, Morgan
Photos by Shelby Lindrud / West Central Tribune
The sun streams through the windows of the Interior Design Studio in Willmar on Jan. 8, showing off the different home decor pieces available from furniture to art as well as pillows and rugs.
A pile of pillows in varying colors and fabrics brightens up a neutral sofa at the Interior Design Studio in Willmar on Wednesday, Jan. 8. Pillows and throws are a great way to add color and texture to a design.
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sees mid-century modern, transitional, traditional and coastal being some of the more popular styles.
"Trends and specific patterns come and go," Morgan said. "We are seeing less of the all-gray or all-white designs."
While trends continue to influence the design choices made by clients, people are more willing to take a design chance, or be more open to adding their personalities to the style, Morgan said. A special piece of furniture or a bold pattern can go a long way in putting an individual stamp on a project.
Color
interior, and one of the most impactful. A
new paint on the walls or change the feel of a room through the placement of a few pops of color from pillows, throws or rugs. Growing in popularity are warmer neutrals, as well as more vibrant hues such as shades of brown, burgundy, plum, gold and cinnamon tones.
"People are embracing color," Morgan said.
Other trends in interior design are using quality finishes, textural elements, wallpaper to personalize spaces, metal tones and nature inspired motifs. People are paying attention to light in a space, whether that means adding task lighting in a kitchen, creating ways to increase the natural light in a room or installing motorized blinds to make it easier to control the amount of light, Morgan said.
In kitchens, clients are looking at ways to use spaces in more than one way, such as a kitchen island doubling as a dining space. Painted cabinets remain popular, but light and mid-range wood tones are growing in popularity. Of course, storage is always important in a kitchen design and prep kitchens are also a new trend.
Bathroom trends include wet rooms, steam showers, freestanding tubs, curb less showers, health and wellness options and bringing the spa into the home.
"Kitchens and bathrooms will remain popular," in regards to home renovation projects, Morgan said.
For those looking for a timeless look that won't go out of style within a few years, Morgan advises clients to follow trends in their accent pieces — such as art, pillows and rugs — while using more classic elements for harder-to-change or more expensive parts of a design, like tile, lighting and cabinetry.
"Design with balance, proportion and scale. Respect the home's architecture, using quality pieces, blending old and new," Morgan said.
When renovating and redesigning their homes, owners do still think about the potential resale value of the property, but that is becoming less of a deciding factor. Today, people are starting to design for their
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Trends in fabric include more color, such as these green options at the Interior Design Studio in Willmar on Wednesday, Jan. 8. Golds, reds and browns are growing in popularity.
Pheasants look out from a room vignette at the Interior Design Studio in Willmar on Wednesday, Jan. 8. Wallpaper can be a great way to add color and pattern to a room design.
Katie Morgan, interior designer, has owned the Interior Design Studio in Willmar for many years. She helps clients design their home interior spaces.
The Interior Design Studio in Willmar, has been helping clients create their dream home interiors since 1984. Owner Katie Morgan calls the studio a one-stop shop for interior design.
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long-term comfort and happiness in a home, instead of just what they may be able to sell a home for.
"We are seeing an increase of designing a space with what you love and having longevity in mind," Morgan said. "Aging in place, focusing on comfort and long-term living. Enjoying the space you are in."
Each design and home improvement project is different, and can face different challenges and opportunities. IDS can assist in every step of the interior design process, helping make their client's design dreams come true.
"We are here to help you with your project and stay within budget," Morgan said. "We work with a variety of budgets and often having the help of a designer will save you time and money in the long run."
A zebra pillow adds some whimsy at the Interior Design Studio in Willmar on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025. In interior design, people are more willing to throw in a bit of fun and uniqueness into their home interiors.
How homeowners and renters should respond after a natural disaster
Nearly one-third of U.S. homes are at a high risk of natural disaster, according to CoreLogic.
It’s essential to know what to do before a natural disaster strikes and how to navigate the aftermath. Freddie Mac is offering homeowners and renters these tips:
Contact your insurer and mortgage servicer
Whether you rent or own, one of the first people you contact should be your insurance agent or mortgage servicer.
If you’re a renter and your rental unit or property sustains damage, contact your renters insurance company to file a claim. Most policies cover damage from tornadoes, fires, hail and non-flood related water damage. You also should inform your property manager. Sharing pictures of damage may help them make insurance claims, if necessary. To ensure everyone is on the same page, keep a written record of any communications about plans to address damage.
If you’re a homeowner, call your homeowners insurance agent. In addition to assessing your property’s condition and reimbursing repair and replacement costs,
many policies also cover additional living expenses if you are displaced, such as temporary housing, food, pet boarding and other household expenses. It’s also critical to let your mortgage company or servicer know about your current circumstances and to learn about available disaster relief options.
Get relief
Disasters can stress your finances, but there are ways to get help.
If you’re struggling to make rent following a natural disaster, talk to your property manager about flexible payments. You should also look at your lease agreement for a rental abatement clause, which may allow you to pause or make partial rent payments if your unit is damaged. As you rebuild, you may also be eligible for programs like federal tax relief and financial assistance for energy bills.
If you’re a homeowner, there are relief options available to help if you’re at risk of missing a mortgage payment due to a natural disaster. One such option is mortgage forbearance, which allows you to reduce or pause your payments for a specified period. Keep in mind that if you choose this option, you should be prepared for when forbearance ends and normal payments resume. You should also refer to
the information about disaster assistance and resources provided by entities like FEMA, DisasterAssistance.gov, The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and American Red Cross.
Be aware of scams
After a natural disaster, you may be a target for scam artists or predatory lenders seeking out people in distress. Help avoid becoming a victim by being aware of common schemes. These include highinterest loans for repairs, which may offer short-term relief, but end up costing you more in the long term. You should also be wary when prepaying contracts for repairs. Don’t authorize any payments until all work is completed and you’re satisfied with the final product. Finally, don’t provide personal information to anyone claiming to be a government employee or disaster relief professional without verifying their identity. Remember that government employees will never ask you for financial information, such as a bank account number.
If you believe you’ve been a victim of a scam, report it immediately. First, call your creditors to cancel your credit cards. You can also request that creditors receive your written consent before changing your mailing address or sending a replacement credit card. Then, contact the credit bureaus to freeze your credit reports so that there’s no activity unless you approve it. Finally, report the scam to consumer protection agencies like the Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice so that the culprit can’t strike again.
Learn more about disaster preparedness with the collection of Freddie Mac educational offerings found at myhome.freddiemac.com/ blog/keyword/disaster-preparedness.
After a natural disaster strikes and you and your loved ones are safe and accounted for, getting on the path to financial recovery is critical. Whether you are a homeowner or renter, there are resources to help you get back on your feet.
How combination appliances can transform your kitchen
Combination appliances are revolutionizing modern kitchens, offering a blend of functionality, efficiency and convenience that is transforming cooking and meal preparation.
“The appeal of combination appliances lies in their ability to streamline kitchen operations, save valuable space, and provide a diverse range of cooking options without the need for separate appliances,” said Peter Weedfald, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Sharp Home Electronics Company of America.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a busy parent looking to simplify meal preparation, combination appliances can offer a compelling solution that merges convenience with culinary excellence. Here's how:
• Space-saving efficiency: One of the primary advantages of combination appliances is their ability to save valuable kitchen space. In an era where kitchen real estate is often at a premium, especially in urban environments, these multifunctional units can create a more organized kitchen layout, while still delivering quality cooking.
• Smart features: Many combination appliances come equipped with smart features that enhance the cooking experience. The Sharp Smart Convection Wall Oven with Microwave Drawer Oven, for example, combines two appliances into one beautiful and convenient cooking center. The simple-to-use, full-color touchscreen control panel seamlessly manages both ovens. It also works with Alexa for hands-free cooking and features more than 150 voice commands that provide intuitive operation and access to various cooking modes
for both the oven and microwave drawer. These smart features can make cooking more accessible and enjoyable for users of all skill levels. Got your hands full in the kitchen? Just say, “Alexa, open the microwave,” and watch the magic happen!
• Streamlined selection process: One challenge in kitchen shopping is navigating the number of choices. Combination kitchen appliances can streamline this process by reducing the need to research and compare multiple individual products, simplifying decisionmaking, and allowing you to focus on what truly matters — designing a functional and stylish kitchen.
• Modern design: Combination appliances often feature sleek, modern designs that elevate the aesthetic of any kitchen. The integrated look of appliances like the Smart Radiant Rangetop with Microwave Drawer Oven contributes to a cohesive and
sophisticated kitchen environment, appealing to both homeowners and interior design enthusiasts. When planning your kitchen, these combination appliances seamlessly fit into a single cutout.
Combination appliances like the Sharp SWB3085HS and STR3065HS offer several benefits, from space-saving efficiency to simple selection and smart features. As kitchens continue to evolve, these multifunctional appliances are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners looking to maximize functionality without sacrificing style or space.
To learn more about how combination appliances can transform your kitchen, visit shop.sharpusa.com/products/combi.
With their innovative features and sleek designs, combination appliances can help make your life simply better while elevating your cooking experience.
Adding an accessory dwelling unit may provide huge potential returns
Adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to your property can increase the value of your home, become a source of rental income, or help you expand your living space for your adult children or parents.
If you don’t know what an ADU is, you’re in good company. A 2023 Freddie Mac survey found that 71% of respondents were unfamiliar with the concept. ADUs are often known as in-law apartments, granny flats, carriage houses or secondary suites. According to Freddie Mac, here’s why investing in adding an ADU may be worth it:
The basics: An ADU is a smaller, independent residential structure built on the same lot as a single-family home. To qualify as an ADU, the additional living area needs to include a kitchen, bathroom and separate entrance. Common examples include a dwelling over a detached or attached garage, a suite above the main floor of the home, a basement apartment, or a detached structure such as a guesthouse or backyard cottage.
The benefits: Building an ADU on your property may contribute to the supply of affordable housing in your area, but it also has a wealth of benefits for you, the homeowner. It can boost the value of your home by as much as 35%, and become a
potential source of extra income if you rent your ADU to a tenant. An ADU can also make for a great home office, guest house or workshop, or be a good solution if your adult children are returning to live with you, or you are the caretaker to aging or disabled relatives.
Eligibility: Before adding an ADU to your home, you will need to learn about the zoning codes that apply to your property. Ordinances and policies vary by location and change frequently. Make sure you understand any federal, state or local laws involved with renting your ADU. Discussing this with an attorney is one option. To find your zoning code, check your local government’s website or reach out to your local zoning or building code office.
Financing: You should create a construction budget and consider how you will pay for a new ADU or renovations to an existing ADU. The good news is that you don’t necessarily need to pay the expenses upfront. There are loans designed to help you pay for improvements to your home. For example, Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation is a financing solution that can provide you with funding to add an ADU on your property. Speak with your lender about the financing options available to you and which may best suit your needs.
To learn more about home equity and renovating your home, visit My Home by
Contributed / StatePoint
Adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to your property can increase the value of your home, become a source of rental income, or help you expand your living space for your adult children or parents.
Relax and enjoy your winter refuge with
and
The two stage Model 927T delivers evenly controlled airflow and a significant reduction in temperature swings. As the focal point for year-round comfort, this furnace offers enhanced summer
Easy renter-friendly tips to weatherize your home
Taking the proper steps to weatherproof your rental is a simple way to stay snug this cold-weather season — while also resulting in notable savings on heating and energy bills.
In fact, a Duck brand survey found that 80% of people noticed a decrease in their heating bill after using affordable weatherization products, such as window insulation kits, weatherstrip seals and door draft seals. With this in mind, here are temporary ways to prep your rental for the winter without causing any damage.
Install draft seals
Doors and windows are notorious for letting
and energy efficiency. Simply slide the seal under interior or exterior doors and window frames to keep cold air from coming in. Even better, the seals can be reused in future residences, making them a smart choice for keeping your comfort intact wherever you choose to live next.
Hang
thermal curtains
Thermal curtains are an excellent option if you’re looking for DIY ways to increase your space’s energy efficiency. By hanging these insulated drapes, the cold air between the window and fabric remains trapped, helping to maintain a comfortable temperature without the need to turn up the heat. If your lease doesn’t give permission to drill into the wall, use a tension rod to install them.
Weatherizing your rental can help save money on costly energy bills this winter, and some weatherizing steps won't leave behind damage.
curtains, the film is crystal clear and allows natural light to peer through windows.
Dress your floors
Who said weatherization can’t be stylish? By placing decorative, cozy rugs on hardwood floors and tiles, you can further insulate your rental. While these items won’t fully prevent heat loss, they do offer an extra layer of warmth and can help reduce drafts from cold floors, making them an obvious choice if you’re a renter looking to stay warm without making permanent changes.
For more weatherization how-to’s, head to www.duckbrand.com/weatherize.
By taking these steps, renters can remain draft-free and damage-free, staying warm while lowering costly electric bills.
Three things you should know about digital mortgage tools
With the increased use of digital tools, the mortgage process looks quite different today than it did for previous generations. These new technologies can make the home loan process more efficient for both those buying a home and those refinancing their mortgage. However, it’s important to understand how your information is being used.
To help ensure you’re a savvy loan applicant, Freddie Mac is providing answers to some commonly asked questions about digital mortgage tools:
Why do lenders use digital mortgage tools?
Lenders have traditionally relied on printed documentation that requires them to manually review your application before deciding if you qualify for a loan, including for how much and on what terms. This can be a time-consuming process for both the homebuyer and the lender. Digital mortgage
underwriting tools allow lenders to expedite the process by using electronic documents and automation to more efficiently evaluate your loan application. Freddie Mac research has found that these tools can decrease the loan origination timeline and may also save you money in closing costs.
In addition, the digital tools mortgage lenders use may help you qualify for a loan if you have a limited credit profile by looking at factors such as your history of on-time rent payments or the amount of money coming into and out of your bank account each month. This helps demonstrate your ability to pay your mortgage each month.
What information will my lender ask for?
Not only will the way you provide documentation change, but in some instances the information your lender evaluates will change as well. For instance,
As the housing finance industry continues to modernize, you can expect a faster, easier home loan process. Staying knowledgeable about these new tools can ensure there are no surprises when it comes time to secure a loan.
Jacob Wackerhausen / iStock via Getty Images Plus
you may be asked to provide access to digital accounts, such as your bank account, instead of providing printed bank statements. By using digital tools, lenders can get a more detailed view of your finances, which helps them lend to you if you are a harder-to-underwrite buyer.
Specific requirements may vary by lender — some may prefer a fully-digital process while others may use a combination of printed and electronic documents. Talk to your lender to get a better understanding of their loan application process.
What if I'm not comfortable providing my information?
Though your lender will have a more detailed look at your finances through a fully-digital process, keep in mind that digital documents often provide a higher level of security than printed documents. If you still prefer not to share digital access to your personal information, your lender should understand your concerns and be willing to work with you on an alternative solution. If not, you can find a different lender who is willing to accommodate a loan application process that is not digital.
In either scenario, you should always take steps to ensure your personal information is protected and remain vigilant against potential fraud. You can help mitigate your risk of fraud and identity theft by
Learn more about the mortgage application process with Freddie Mac’s
Good Health Starts
How to prepare for a lengthy renovation project
Home renovations can increase resale value and outfit spaces to make them more accommodating to residents. Homeowners interested in remodeling projects understand that such undertakings are often a lengthy process. But the time spent waiting often is well worth it when the work is done and the finished product looks just as homeowners imagined.
Depending on the scope and scale of a project, home renovations can take anywhere from a day or two for minor cosmetic changes to nine months for a major project. The lender RenoFi says projects like remodeling a kitchen or bathroom have a lot of moving parts, including plumbing and electrical work, structural changes, flooring, and installation of appliances. Due to that complexity, such projects may take six to 12 weeks. A home addition can take months. Homeowners weary of such lengthy undertakings can implement strategies to
make conditions at home more manageable.
• Get a rough estimate from contractors so that you can budget accordingly. A project will go nowhere without proper funding. Get detailed estimates that include labor and building materials. Then start saving and stash money away for the project so you're not caught off-guard later on.
• Clear out clutter. Remove any extraneous items from the room or rooms that will be remodeled. Although it will be an added expense, it is a good idea to rent a storage unit or have a storage pod placed in the driveway or yard for the duration of the project. Move items that will not be needed into the unit. This will get them out of the way and protect them from damage.
• Consider starting in warm weather. Contractors will be going in and out of the home each day, and doors and windows may need
to be propped open. Schedule a project during those months when temperatures are more comfortable. If the project involves limited access to the kitchen to cook, utilizing an
outdoor grill or kitchen is much easier when the weather is pleasant.
• Stay with relatives. While some people have no issues living in a residence during a renovation, others may find the work simply too inconvenient or distracting to be around. Time away from the property can help manage stress, and prevent kids, pets and others from getting in the way of work.
• Safeguard sensitive items. Take inventory of items in the home and catalog them for insurance purposes. This way you're covered in the case of damage or theft. Remove documents, like birth certificates, passports, insurance policies, and other private papers, and keep them in a safety deposit box or fireproof safe.
Home renovations may stretch on for weeks or months. However, with adequate preparation, homeowners can see such projects through without facing too much adversity.
Contributed / Metro Newspaper Service Homeowners weary of lengthy undertakings can implement strategies to make conditions at home more manageable.
