Tag Archives: home decor

Jul18

Top 2022 Home Decor Trends

Posted on July 18, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Do you want to upgrade your home or give it a new look, but you’re not sure where to begin? When you want to make a change in your home, it can be overwhelming with the plethora of options that you can choose from. This can turn what should be a fun and exciting project to embark on into a stressful one. It shouldn’t have to be that way!

To help you on your journey to create an improved space, you may wish to learn the top home decor trends in 2022. This can help you see what is popular right now and hopefully spark some inspiration while you design your rooms. It can be great fun to experiment with new furniture choices and color palettes that you may not have thought of before. The fun thing about trends is that they introduce you to new ideas and concepts. Here are some of the most popular decor trends you should know about:

Patterns:

While 2019 to 2021 took you in the direction of neutral color palettes, it looks like 2022 is taking you in the opposite direction with bold and unique patterns. People seem to be embracing large and bold prints on their wallpaper and furniture while contrasting this with a more subtle flooring installation such as vinyl. The most popular patterns being used are animals print.

Vintage:

Decor from the 70s and 80s is quickly coming back into style and there appear to be no limits. From the bright, neon colors to the chunky furniture, it is all making a comeback. Elements from the 70s and 80s are a great way to add pops of color and visual interest into any room and can be adapted to suit your personal color preferences. You can even opt for additional features such as neon signs, brass shelves, tropical prints, rounded accessories, and much more.

3D Art:

Perhaps as a result of spending more time inside from the COVID-19 pandemic, people are pushing toward adding more life into their homes. 3D art is an excellent way to make your home unique and turn the heads of your guests. Whether it is sea shells or portraits that pop out from their frames, they are both stunning and whimsical additions to your home. They can bring your walls to life and add character to a bare room.

Smart Storage:

The increase of remote working has changed the way that people live and use their homes. Many rooms have been adapted into multi functional spaces so that they can do more at home. This is a great way to make the most of your space. This is anything from home offices, home gyms, libraries, nurseries, craft rooms, and much more. For a multi functional space to work, you will need smart storage solutions. These are custom designed storage spaces, such as cupboards, that keep your space free from clutter and able to adapt for multiple uses.

If you’re not sure what upgrades to make to your home, follow these top decor trends of 2022 to help you spark some inspiration. Happy decorating!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jul5

Home Flooring Renovations: 5 Tips To Keep In Mind

Posted on July 5, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Home Flooring Renovations: 5 Tips To Keep In Mind

Flooring is an important part of any home renovation project. However, choosing the right type of flooring for your needs can be tricky and there are a few things you should keep in mind before starting your renovation. This blog post will discuss five tips for renovating your home’s flooring:

Choose the type of flooring you want:

There are many different types of flooring on the market and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. First, you need to decide what type of flooring will best suit your needs. There are four main types of flooring: hardwood, laminate, vinyl, and carpet.

Hardwood floors are a classic choice that can add beauty and value to your home. However, they require regular maintenance and can be scratched or damaged easily.
Laminate floors are a more affordable option that looks like wood but is less durable.
Vinyl floors are a great option for high traffic areas and are very durable. But, they can be damaged by water and are not as comfortable to walk on as other types of flooring.
Carpet is a cozy and comfortable option but it can be stained easily and is difficult to clean.

If you are unsure of what type of flooring would look best in your home, call in an expert! They will be able to assist in the design and installation to tie the whole space together. To find a flooring professional, simply enter a search for “Flooring contractor in Columbus, OH” or your local area.

Consider the cost:

Flooring can be a significant investment so you must choose a material that fits your budget. Hardwood floors are typically the most expensive option, while carpet is usually the least expensive. You should also remember that installation costs can vary depending on the flooring you choose. Installation costs for hardwood floors tend to be higher than other types of flooring because they require special tools and skills. Laminate and vinyl floors are often less expensive to install but they may not last as long as hardwood floors. Carpet is usually the most affordable option to install but it may need to be replaced more often than other types of flooring.

If a complete makeover for flooring is not in your budget, you can still improve its overall appearance. Professional Floor Cleaning services can make your current flooring sparkle and shine. Problem areas can easily be covered with a rug until they’re dealt with. Or, you can always focus your flooring efforts one room at a time to fit your budget.

Think about durability:

You need to choose a material that can withstand heavy traffic and wear and tear. Hardwood floors are durable but can be scratched or damaged easily. Laminate and vinyl floors are also durable but they may not last as long as hardwood floors. Carpet is not as durable as other types of flooring and can be stained easily.

Cleaning & maintenance:

Hardwood floors require regular cleaning and maintenance but they can be damaged easily if not properly cared for. Laminate and vinyl floors are easy to clean and require little maintenance. However, carpet is difficult to clean and requires regular vacuuming and shampooing. Or you can try this robot vacuum for high pile carpet. You should also remember that some flooring types require more care than others. For example, hardwood floors need to be refinished every few years, while laminate and vinyl floors do not need to be refinished.

The warranty:

When investing in new flooring, you want to ensure a warranty covers it. Most hardwood floors come with a 25 year warranty, while laminate and vinyl floors typically have shorter warranties. Carpet usually has a one year warranty. Make sure you understand the terms of the warranty before purchasing the flooring. Some warranties require that you use a certain type of cleaner or follow specific cleaning instructions.

Keep these five factors in mind when choosing new flooring for your home and you will be able to find the perfect option for your needs!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jun27

Renovating Your Fixer Upper

Posted on June 27, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Standard

If you just got an amazing deal on a new house, then it may be because you invested in a bit of a fixer upper. This is absolutely fine if you are going to spend time putting your own personal stamp on it. Renovating a fixer-upper can take time, a lot of funding, and effort so you will need to figure out your budget. Find out how much you have available for the renovation and then you can make a list of which rooms and tasks to do first. Take a look below for some inspiration:

Bedrooms:

First of all, you might want to do the bedrooms. This is essential, especially if you have children. They will need somewhere to sleep in their new home, preferably before you move in if this is a possibility. If not, then they may have fun getting involved in creating their new space. Talk to them about the type of design they want to go for and what they want on the walls. If you are sorting your own bedroom out, then you need to think about the same things. You want to create the ultimate safe haven where you can chill out at the end of a hard day.

Kitchen:

If you want to create a dream kitchen, then it may take a huge chunk out of your budget. If you have planned for this then that’s great. You could take a look around kitchen showrooms to find your perfect kitchen. You can also look online for some ideas on what you want it to look like. The kitchen is the heart of the home and somewhere you may be hosting lots of dinner parties and guests. If you want to amaze your guests, try adding in some smart tech such as a smart fridge or kettle.

Walls:

Think about how you want the walls in your home to look. Do you want to use paint, wallpaper, or a combination of both? If you take a visit to your local hardware store, then they will have all of the options available to you. You may even be able to get your hands on some samples to try before you buy. It is well worth trying samples, you may know what color you want but if it doesn’t look right on the walls then it will be a waste of money. Don’t forget that all of the walls will be different so create a plan for this.

Garden:

Finally, your new home’s garden might have seen better days. Never fear, the garden might be the easiest thing to renovate and fix up. If you want a proper family garden, then it may be worth adding in some beautiful, colorful flower beds. These look lovely around the perimeter of a garden. You could also add a wild section to encourage bees and other wildlife to explore and nest there. If you have children, you could add some play equipment as well, such as a swing set or outdoor game section.

Fixer uppers are a huge project but will be oh so worth it once your renovations are complete. Remember that your budget will be one of the most important factors in this and to always leave wiggle room for unexpected costs!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Jun9

Boost Your Property Value With These Ideas

Posted on June 9, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Boost Your Property Value With These Ideas

Summer is in full swing and the nice weather gives the opportunity for some fun in the sun. Swimming, hiking, picnics, and outdoor concerts are most definitely in order. And, of course, the warm weather provides the chance to get some home renovations done both indoors and out. Renovations are a huge win/win because it will boost both your property value and curb appeal. Try out some of these projects and you’ll see what we mean:

Upgrade Your Bathroom:

While it’s not the most exciting project in the world, a bathroom upgrade is still very much worth the time and money. Adding an additional bathroom to your home or making a current one into a full bath will be very appealing to potential buyers when it comes time to sell. There are all kinds of ideas for bathroom reno for various lifestyles to fit you and your family’s needs. You can go for luxurious or practical. Regardless of what you choose, it is a great investment to make!

Sunny Side Of Life:

Love the idea of spending time outdoors but are not fond of the bugs and heat? You are not alone! Which brings us to our next renovation idea of adding a sun room. Bring the outdoors inside with plenty of plants, comfortable wicker furniture, and lots of books to read in the glorious sunlight of glass or screened in windows. This will become the place to be to relax and enjoy the weather – no sun burns required. If you are considering a sun room, you will want it to be done right the first time so you can enjoy it this summer. Take the time to explore different sun or Florida rooms specialists operating in your local area by reading reviews and checking out their portfolios and previous work. Once you’ve done this and chosen a reputable contractor to undertake your sun room construction, then you’ll be one step closer to living on the sunny side of life!

Attic/Basement Renovations:

A finished attic or basement is a HUGE boost to your property value. Potential buyers will see an unfinished project like this as a hassle so it’s best to get it out of the way before it becomes time to sell. If you are looking to transform your attic into a living or storage space, then consider investing in trusses for attics. The incorporation of attic trusses can significantly expand the usable space in your attic, enabling you to reimagine its purpose. A home gym, cinema room, or office are all suitable replacements for an unfinished basement or attic. A plush attic space could also be an amazingly cool place for the kids to hang out!

If you have found inspiration in these basement renovation ideas and would like to transform your space, it is smart to get general maintenance done first. Waterproofing is a key example of this. No one wants a damp basement! To find an expert near you do a search for “Basement tanking London” (or your local area) and choose a highly recommended pro.

General Renovations:

It is so easy to focus on big projects and forget about the less enticing options. But, this doesn’t mean that they are any less important. New doors and windows? Boom. Instant face lift to your property. Lush landscaping and a manicured lawn? Hello, curb appeal! Before deciding on what project you would like to tackle, it is helpful to take a stroll through your property both inside and out. Choose the option that fits comfortably in your budget, makes an effective difference, and will catch the eye of anyone who stops by.

Whether it’s an HGTV level renovation or something simple, upgrading your home is only going to help you when you sell. In this case, it is so true that you have to spend money to make money!

Jun8

House Plant Party

Posted on June 8, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello!! Last month when Johnny and I had just moved into our new digs, my best friend, Lea, paid us a visit. She also came bearing gifts – a turtle vine! This was my very first house plant and, surprisingly to all of us, it hasn’t died yet. Rather, it is thriving and I can’t believe how big it has gotten in a month and some change. I have to say, I am very proud of it and take lots of pleasure in caring for it and watching its progress.

While I wouldn’t consider myself a full blown plant mom (Yet!), I did receive a few more at mine and Johnny’s housewarming/birthaversary party:

At the party, my cousin gifted us with a Jade plant and my aunt and uncle brought us a great big spider plant. When Lea first gave us the turtle vine, I almost contemplated giving it to my dad for fear that I would accidentally kill it. I quickly found that this wasn’t the case and was thrilled to receive some more plants to keep it company. 😀

In the old apartment, there wasn’t much opportunity for house plants to thrive. We had very limited space and there was little access for direct sunlight. The new apartment is a totally different story, however, and I have a huge window in my sitting area perfect for plants. And, yes, I wouldn’t be opposed to a few more to add to the collection. In fact, I already have grand plans for some plant stands so that they don’t have to sit on a foot stool anymore lol.

As you all know, my dad has the most amazing green thumb and my parents’ house is filled with plants and their outdoor property is glorious. I could always appreciate how fulfilling it would feel to make things grow but I never got to experience it firsthand in my own place. While I won’t be at my dad’s level probably ever, I am loving this small house plant party that’s forming at chez moi! ❤

Which house plants would you recommend for me? Do you have a green thumb too? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May28

Happy Housewarming Gifts

Posted on May 28, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello!! It isn’t even our housewarming/birthaversary party yet and Johnny and I have already been gifted with so many amazing things from our loved ones. Some of our favorite gifts so far have definitely come from Johnny’s Aunt Eileen and her husband, who I had the pleasure of meeting for the first time a few weeks ago at Johnny’s concert. They so generously sent us all of these goodies and we have been making great use of them since:

My Johnny is a HUGE history buff and enjoys his free time by watching documentaries, listening to podcasts, and reading up on his favorite subject. He is a wealth of knowledge and is always teaching me something new. So, he was especially excited by the BenShot glasses with a bullet in it! Aunt Eileen got us four of these glasses and Johnny has made sure that he has drank from every single one lol. Saying that we have a TON of glasses is an understatement and these are, easily, the coolest ones we have.

Aunt Eileen also gifted us with a video game themed clock and beer themed wall art (Two of our favorite things!) that Johnny hung up in our game room. It was just what we needed too since a majority of our wall art was used on the art wall. They are both perfect pieces of decor for our game room and now all we need is batteries to make them work… and a new Rolling Stones neon light which I accidentally broke. WHOOPS!

Johnny and I are so appreciative of everyone’s generosity as we celebrate our big move, wedding anniversary, and birthdays. Many thanks again to Aunt Eileen for the super thoughtful and very us gifts – we love them and you! ❤

What is your home decor style like? Do you have any exciting events to celebrate coming up? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May25

Completed Art Wall!

Posted on May 25, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello! At mine and Johnny’s old apartment, I had a vision of an art wall going up the staircase. It never fully came to fruition because I ran out of Command strips, never bothered to get more, and didn’t want to put nails in the wall to hang things up with. Fast forward into our new digs and I began the art wall project once more with the full intention of completing it. And, I am pleased to say that it is finally done with Johnny’s help! It only took about three and a half years but, hey, better late than never:

Johnny and I have been working hard in the new apartment to prepare for our housewarming/birthaversary party and have been diligently checking things off of our to do list. Completing the art wall was a huge win because it cleared up lots of space where all of the pictures you see above were just sitting there. In fact, this masterpiece allowed us to fully move the furniture we wanted to put in the game room, making us about eighty percent done with our unpacking.

I was so tickled that Johnny helped me finish this project that I started and I could not have done it without him. It also went by much quicker than when I was trying to hang everything up by myself! Johnny was my handy helper and he basically did everything, which was very nice for me. All I did was come up with the layout I wanted and he did the rest. What a guy!

I am beyond thrilled with how our art wall turned out and it is exactly what I had pictured in my head. I catch myself admiring our effort constantly when I’m at home and I am so happy to have our art collection on display. Thanks to Goodwill hauls, crafting nights with my bestie, and the pieces that Johnny contributed, we have a wide assortment for all of our guests to see. My personal favorite? The autographed picture of Randy and Mr. Lahey from Trailer Park Boys! Can you find it?

What kind of art work do you have hanging up at home? What is your favorite thing on my art wall? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

May23

Turning Your Art Hobby Into A Side Hustle

Posted on May 23, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Turning Your Art Hobby Into A Side Hustle

So you’re looking for a side hustle, and you love art. Or, perhaps, you need to find ways to inject more creativity into your life while also bringing in some money. If either of those statements rings true, then maybe an arts and crafts side hustle could give you the creative outlet you’re looking for while also helping you create a financial plan for the future. Here are five ways that you can turn your passion into a cash cow side hustle:

Create And Sell Digital Art:

This is one of the most straightforward arts and crafts side hustles to start. You don’t need to buy any fancy equipment to create digital art, and you can sell it online to clients from anywhere in the world. In fact, there are tons of digital art marketplaces out there, including Etsy, Zazzle, and Society6. You can also take your digital art a step further by creating video tutorials that show your clients how they can use their new products. This not only allows you to get some extra content out there but also gives your clients added value.

Turn Your Art Into Home Decor:

If you create more traditional art, you can still sell it to customers as home decor. Frame Your Art allows you to list your art pieces for sale online and each frame comes with a free print of your art. You can also partner with local shops that sell home decor to display your framed art in their stores or sell your art on Amazon through the Merch by Amazon program. The catch is that you’ll have to print it yourself (or outsource it to a company), box it, and ship it out to customers. But if you have the time, this is a great way to instantly create passive income from your art.

If you make art yourself, stock up on supplies from King’s printmaking supplies and get to creating. It’s an easy way to turn your hobby into a side hustle.

Start An Etsy Store:

Art is a great way to keep yourself busy. It can also make you money and Etsy has become a go-to marketplace for handmade goods. There are plenty of ways for artists to sell their artwork and crafts to the public. However, if you want to start an Etsy store as a side hustle, make sure that you’re abiding by the company’s guidelines.

If you’re a creative person, chances are you have plenty of ideas for new products to sell. You can either create your own designs or source items from other designers. No matter what, you’ll need to make sure that your product is high quality. People tend to be very selective when purchasing handmade items. Take the time to do things right so you don’t have to worry about returns or poor reviews on your page. Doing things right also means having the right equipment for your craft. For example, you will want an excellent mug press if you are creating customized mugs for your customers as well as proper packaging to avoid breaks.

Create Handmade Jewelry:

If you love to make jewelry but don’t want to sell your creations online, you can still make money with them as a side hustle. You can turn your jewelry-making hobby into a profit-making business by hosting small craft fairs in your neighborhood. Just make sure that you have permission to sell goods on public property.

In addition to craft fairs, you can also sell your goods online through marketplaces like Etsy, Amazon Handmade, and ArtFire. Keep in mind that this side hustle is more than just creating jewelry. You’ll need to set up your booth or display, attend events, and promote your business. You can also sell your jewelry at local shops. This allows you to get more visibility for your products, and you may even be able to negotiate a percentage of the sales.

Open A Print Shop:

Are you a Photoshop pro? If so, you can use your skills to create all sorts of designs for clients. Many companies outsource their printing to individuals who have the necessary software and knowledge to create the perfect design. You can find these jobs on sites like Upwork and PeoplePerHour.

There are also online print shops that allow you to design customizable products such as T-shirts, posters, tote bags, and more. First, you’ll need to create a shop through the website and upload your designs. You usually have the option to use a template or you can upload your own designs. Once you have the shop up and running, all you have to do is wait for customers to order your products.

If you have a passion for arts and crafts and are looking for some extra cash, a side hustle will be just right for you. How cool will it be to see other people enjoying your one of a kind pieces?!

Featured Image By: Jess Bailey Designs via Pexels

May20

How To Spruce Up The Exterior Of Your Home

Posted on May 20, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Standard

How To Spruce Up The Exterior Of Your Home

Your home’s exterior can have a huge impact on its overall aesthetic, as it’s the first thing that you or your guests see when arriving at your property. If your home’s exterior is drab and dreary, then it may give off the false impression that the inside of your property is unkempt too – even if your home’s interior is as pristine as can be! Fortunately, figuring out how to spruce up your home’s exterior doesn’t have to be as tricky as you might imagine, because there are several simple steps that you can follow to transform it in no time at all:

Revamp Your Windows:

Revamping your windows is an ideal way to spruce up your home’s exterior, as they contribute massively towards the overall aesthetic of your property. Choosing to use old and damaged windows that boast one single pane will detract from the look of your home while also impacting on your energy efficiency too, so it’s best to think about upgrading your windows to double or even triple glazing in an attractive style so that you can boost your curb appeal like never before.

Windows come in so many shapes, sizes, and styles, so you can find an alternative to better suit your property. Finding top quality specialty and custom window installation can put your mind at ease, so make sure you seek out a reputable provider that has lots of positive reviews so that you can put your faith in their products and services. If you don’t have the funds to invest in a whole new set of windows for your home then do not fret! You might be able to get away with a deep clean and a quick lick of paint on any surrounding wood just to help inject a little life into your aging windows.

Gain Control Over Your Garden:

If your front garden is overgrown and unruly, then this could be detracting noticeably from your property’s exterior. Overgrown grass, low hanging trees, and weeds sprouting up between your paving stones can be an eyesore so it’s vital that you gain control over your garden if you want your home to really flourish.

Mow your front lawn regularly and add some pops of color in the form of a few potted plants or even a variety of hanging baskets that boast an array of beautiful flowers to brighten things up. Stay on top of weeding and reward your hard work with some cute lawn decorations to add some fun, quirky touches.

Pressure Wash Exterior & Paving:

Last but not least, if you want to spruce up your home’s exterior and encourage your property to look as fresh and vibrant as possible, then pressure washing your home and paving will help to achieve total revitalization. Pressure washing is like an instant face lift for your home and enlisting the help of a pressure washing service in Alexandria, VA (or your local area) will have chez vous looking brand new again.

Over time your exterior walls and any paving or driveways that sit outside your home can fall victim to wear and tear, whether this means staining, discoloration, or gaps in your paving that can make your home seem drab. If your paving is looking worse for the wear, fill those gaps with EasyJoint from Azpects to get it looking brand new again. Little projects can make a big difference!

Investing in a pressure washer or hiring a professional like those from Pro Clean Plus is an option that you should consider exploring. It’s such an affordable and fast way to transform your home’s exterior without the need for any skills. Just make sure you don’t pressure wash any surfaces which aren’t strong enough to take the power, as you may accidentally blast away the surface layer or even break straight through if the material is particularly weak (such as rotting wood on old decking).

Spring cleaning is out and summer projects are in. Take advantage of the beautiful weather with some outdoor chores – starting with your home’s exterior!

Featured Image By: Pexels

May15

Moving On Up: Art Wall

Posted on May 15, 2022 by lifewithlilred

Standard

Hello! This past Wednesday, I was hanging out at home while Johnny was at band practice and wanted to spend the evening relaxing instead of unpacking. That changed tunes pretty quickly, though, because of an unfortunate mishap with the video game I was playing. Basically, I accidentally loaded a previous save point and everything I did after that point got deleted. I was SO upset!!

Rather than wallow in my frustration, I decided to get started on a new unpacking project: Creating an art wall. It’s looking very nice so far, if I do say so myself:

^^^ There’s still a ways to go but it’s getting there!

Between an endless supply of paintings from Goodwill, crafts with my bestie, and Johnny’s own artwork collection, I had a lot to work with for my art wall. This was a project that I had wanted to do in my old apartment and just never got around to finishing it… Probably because I never bought more Command strips to hang the paintings with lol. Johnny had actually bought several packs of them during his last trip to Walmart, which is how this first go at the art wall was possible.

The end result will have artwork hanging up all the way along the stairs and it is going to look so cool! I’m really happy with how it’s looking so far, though, and it was the perfect project to sink my teeth into after an epic gaming failure. The concentration it took to hang everything just so definitely kept my mind off of three hours of Paper Mario getting lost in oblivion!

Progress with unpacking has been pretty good but it has slowed down because we need more shelving for a lot of the remainders. In fact, I was feeling a bit down about it and this project helped perk me up and kicked my motivation back into high gear – especially with our housewarming/birthaversary party right around the corner. 😀

Although my project isn’t complete yet, I can already picture the end result and I can’t wait to show all of you. This is how I always wanted the staircase in my old apartment to look and it feels good for that vision to finally come to life!

What have you been crafting lately? Have you been working on any home decor projects? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

	lifewithlilred on New Year’s Resolutions F…
	Dear Quiet on New Year’s Resolutions F…
	lifewithlilred on Wedding/Taco Bells
	Kendrick Brown on Wedding/Taco Bells
	Simon on V-Day Bratz Doll OOTD