Simple, Revitalizing Home Updates
Thoughts and plans of change always accompany the New Year. Focusing more on personal health and becoming more organized are among the ever-present resolutions. This year, why not extend the theme of renewal to your home, where small, strategic updates can make a big impact? You don't have to gut the kitchen, knock down walls or rip up flooring - simple changes or additions can make a big difference without requiring a huge financial investment. The following are some of our favorite examples, with potential updates ranging in price from under $100 to over $1,000.
For the Heart of the HomeIn the kitchen, cabinetry and drawers can be modified to great effect without wholesale renovations. While updating cabinets or adding stone countertops is an obvious solution, why not take it to the next level and add glass cabinet doors for a completely different look? Another common update - replacing hardware - can be done with a unique twist. Urban Archaeology's hardware recalls the company's history in architectural salvage, while focusing on the highest standards of detail and craftsmanship. Their attractive pointed bin pull was inspired by an 1880s era home in the Gothic Revival style and is available in several finishes. If modern is more your style, a simple and elegant contemporary look can be achieved by adding luxury accessories from Ontario-based Neff Kitchens, which provide the perfect combination of form and function. The hanging midway spice jars create space on your countertop or in your cabinets while keeping spices accessible and adding more than a dash of design flair. Lighting UpdatesLighting helps set the mood in any room, from the automatic dimmer in the home theater to the glowing hallway sconces. Changing a fixture can help create a desired look with a minimal amount of effort. Illuminating in more ways than one, the fixtures designed by Peter Carlson of CL Sterling & Son are handmade in Portugal using recycled lead crystal. The Rock Crystal Collection of hanging bowls, pendants and more are one-of-a-kind pieces sure to spark conversation. |
Lighting Updates (continued)For cutting edge style that is also energy efficient, consider the sleek new L'ale sconce from Ivalo Lighting. Developed in partnership with architect William Pedersen, the custom fixture was designed to complement most decors while adding a sense of intimacy and warmth to the home. Made to work with LED light sources, the stylish sconce is also ADA-compliant and is available in a number of finishes and custom colors. On the WallsArt and wall hangings also help define a space and display your personal style. Simply hanging a mirror can add natural light reflected from the windows, creating virtual space for a small room or widening a narrow hallway. Artist Scott Grove has produced a mirror that satisfies in both utility and aesthetics. Hand-crafted of wood carved with a chain saw, finished with copper and sealed to prevent oxidation, the beautiful mirror has a unique look making some wonder whether it is metal or wood. Several upscale mirror options are also available through Made Goods, a boutique line popular with designers including Michael S. Smith, interior designer of the current U.S. President's White House. One piece that we find exceptionally striking is the Beatrice, which has a simple metal frame surrounding soldered antique mirror tiles. |
These are only a few examples of how to infuse new style into your home without making major changes. Inspiration can come from several sources, but it is always important to add your personal touch.