Entertain in style this summer by coordinating your table’s color scheme, linens, dinnerware and lighting.

Summer is the season of sun, fun and outdoor entertaining, and there’s no better way to welcome friends and family than with a beautifully set table. Whether you’re hosting a casual barbecue or a sophisticated dinner under the stars, creating an inviting atmosphere is easy if you follow a few simple steps – your party will be the talk of the neighborhood!

Determine Your Color Scheme

The possibilities are endless when it comes to choosing a color scheme. To narrow down your options, think about the mood you want to capture. Pastels, like mint green, blush pink and lavender, evoke a fresh, light feel. Vibrant shades like coral, turquoise and lemon yellow can add a playful touch. If an elegant dining experience is your goal, consider neutral tones with metallic accents, such as gold or silver. Soft whites, greens and earth tones are ideal for a laid-back garden party.

Layer With Beautiful Linens

To keep things simple and organized, your best bet is to start with a crisp, white tablecloth. Then lay down a runner in your preferred color scheme and choose your napkins and placemats – all while keeping your desired vibe in mind. Cloth napkins and/or placemats made of natural materials like cotton or jute set a relaxing tone. Bright blue, yellow or red fabrics, on the other hand, will pop against the white tablecloth to give a feeling of fun and energy. Classic white linen napkins would be suitable for formal gatherings, and nautical stripes would effortlessly enhance a coastal theme.

Mix and Match Dinnerware for a Personal Touch

When it comes to summer table settings, don’t be afraid to experiment with your dinnerware. A collection of mismatched plates can add charm and personality, especially when paired with coordinating glasses and flatware. Also consider incorporating different textures and materials, like ceramic plates, bamboo chargers and glass bowls. If you’re more of a traditionalist, solid-colored or classic white dinnerware always looks sleek and sophisticated and can be brightened up with smaller pieces in playful patterns or abstract motifs.

Add Natural Elements With Fresh Flowers and Greenery

Take advantage of nature’s bounty by decorating your gathering space with an assortment of foliage. You could combine a variety of blooms in small vases for a coordinated look or go wild with a whimsical arrangement of daisies, sunflowers and peonies. Alternatively, potted succulents or herbs like rosemary and lavender are both stylish and fragrant. If you’re aiming for a rustic or boho vibe, arrange eucalyptus branches or a long garland of ivy down the center of the table.

Illuminate the Evening With Mood Lighting

As the sun sets, lighting becomes crucial for maintaining a warm and inviting ambiance. Pillar candles in simple holders, tea lights in mason jars or floating candles in glass bowls inject a bit of romance with their soft, flattering glow. You could also string lights or hang lanterns above the dining area for added charm. LED fairy lights wrapped around centerpieces or table legs is another way to create a magical backdrop for an unforgettable party.

Keep It Comfortable

While style is important, you don’t want to forget about comfort. Ensure that your seating arrangements are roomy enough for your guests to enjoy the meal. Place cushions or throws on chairs and provide blankets in case the evening turns cooler.

Setting the perfect summer table is all about creating a welcoming atmosphere where friends and family can relax, enjoy great food and make lasting memories. With the right color palette, dinnerware and thoughtful attention to detail, you’ll be able to host an event that not only looks beautiful but also makes everyone feel at home.

Selling your home requires careful planning that includes pre-listing preparation, competitive pricing, widescale marketing and skilled negotiation.

Are you ready to make a move? With the real estate market heating up, now may be the perfect time to list. As you embark on this exciting journey, remember that selling your home quickly for top dollar requires careful planning and preparation.

Declutter, Depersonalize and Deep Clean

Buyers want to envision themselves living in the space, so begin by removing personal items like family photos, knick-knacks and excess furniture to create an airy, open environment. Be sure to clean carpets, wash windows, scrub bathrooms and polish hardwood floors. Fix any leaky faucets, cracked tiles or chipped paint so the beauty of your home shines through.

Hire a Real Estate Agent

While you could sell your home on your own, working with a real estate agent can significantly ease your stress while simplifying the process. You should choose a professional with a proven track record – someone who understands the market and is well-versed in selling properties like yours. You might want to interview a few agents to find one who appreciates your needs, communicates regularly and has experience in your neighborhood.

Set the Right Price

Pricing your residence correctly is one of the most important aspects of selling. If you ask too much, you might scare off buyers; too little, and you risk leaving money on the table. Your agent will pull a list of comparable homes in your area to determine a competitive price that creates buzz and attracts the largest possible pool of buyers.

Market for Maximum Exposure

The vast majority of motivated buyers are searching online, so it’s crucial that your property appears across high-traffic websites and social media platforms. Your agent will arrange for quality photography and video to be used in both digital and print advertising, ensuring a positive impression and drawing potential buyers in. Open houses are another great way to generate wide-scale interest for a quick sale.

Negotiate Offers

Once offers start coming in, your agent will help you thoroughly review them. You want to consider the full terms of each offer, not just the price, and be prepared to counter-offer. Some buyers may ask for contingencies, such as credit for upgrades or repairs. Weigh these requests thoughtfully, as they may delay the sale. If an offer needs some adjusting, a skilled agent can navigate you through the process and find a mutually agreeable solution.

Prepare for Closing

Once you’ve accepted an offer, the buyer will likely schedule an inspection and appraisal. If any issues are revealed, your agent may have to renegotiate the terms and price. As these details are being ironed out, you can focus on putting your moving plan in place. Consider the timing of the closing date to ensure a smooth transition.

Seal the Deal

On closing day, you’ll meet with the buyer, the buyer’s agent and possibly the title company to finalize all terms. You’ll sign the final documents, and the buyer will transfer the funds. Once the paperwork is complete, the property officially changes ownership, and you can hand over the keys!

If you’re ready to list, you can start by contacting an agent to learn more about the market activity in your specific location. Selling your home is a big undertaking, but with a mapped-out strategy and expert guidance, you can achieve a successful, financially beneficial outcome.

To create a chic and functional home office, invest in quality furniture, consider design and personalize for your needs.

A dedicated home office isn’t just a workspace – it’s an extension of your home’s style and personality. Whether you’re working remotely full-time, running a business or simply need a quiet place to focus, a well-designed home office can boost productivity while blending seamlessly with your home’s décor.

Choose the Right Space

Not every home has a spare room waiting to be transformed into an office, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create a functional workspace. Look for underused areas, like a nook in the living room, a corner of the bedroom or even a converted closet. Natural light is ideal, but if that’s not an option, layered lighting – overhead, task and ambient – can brighten up the space and reduce eye strain.

Invest in Comfortable, Practical Furniture

A home office should be as comfortable as it is efficient. An ergonomic chair and a sturdy desk are non-negotiable. If space is tight, consider a wall-mounted desk or a sleek writing table. Storage is equally important – floating shelves, filing cabinets, or built-in bookcases keep clutter at bay without overwhelming the room.

Blend Functionality with Design

An office that looks good feels good. Choose a color scheme that complements the rest of your home while setting the right mood. Cool tones like blue and green promote focus, while warm neutrals create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Personal touches – like framed artwork, decorative storage boxes, or a stylish area rug – add character without sacrificing professionalism.

Keep Organization in Mind

A well-organized office reduces distractions and makes work more enjoyable. Opt for smart storage solutions like labeled bins, drawer organizers and pegboards to keep essentials within reach. Cable management is another must – cord covers or cable trays can tidy up messy wires and maintain a polished look.

Make It Work for You

A home office should support your work style. If you spend hours on video calls, position your desk near a neutral, well-lit backdrop. If you thrive in a dynamic environment, add a sit-stand desk to keep energy levels up. Soundproofing elements like rugs, curtains, or even noise-canceling panels can help if you need a quieter space.

The Final Touches

The best home offices strike a balance between style and efficiency. A few well-placed plants can improve air quality and bring a bit of nature indoors. A designated space for breaks – like a cozy chair for reading or a coffee station – can make long workdays more enjoyable.

With the right design choices, your home office can be both a productive workspace and a reflection of your personal style – proof that function and aesthetics don’t have to be at odds.

Discover how 3D art, like sculptural wall panels and architectural elements, can add depth and texture to your home.

If your home feels static, you can rejuvenate it by adding dimension and texture with 3D art. From sculptural wall details to statement furniture to structural elements, you can create movement and interest, turning ordinary spaces into stunning, design-forward interior areas. Creating depth and a layered look is easier than you think.

The Magic of 3D Wall Art

Paint isn’t the only way to refresh your home – wall art that pops, like carved wood panels, metal sculptures or textured murals, can add visual intrigue. Modern bas-relief designs – where images are slightly raised from a flat surface – bring a refined, artistic touch without overwhelming the room. For a contemporary look, acrylic, resin or metal abstract wall sculptures make a bold statement. For a subtle touch, geometric wood panels or woven fiber art add a warm, natural effect. Consider placing these pieces above a sofa, behind a bed or in an entryway surrounded by wall sconces or picture lights to draw attention and create an eye-catching 3D art focal point.

Statement Furniture With Dimension

Introduce depth and character by bringing your furniture beyond the traditional finishes and opt for pieces with sculpted, layered or textural elements. A velvet channel-tufted sofa, a wave-patterned wood credenza or a coffee table with a rippling stone top instantly adds range. You could also consider including a curvy accent chair in a reading nook, a fluted console in an entryway or a tactile headboard in a bedroom. Go further with a soft glow from a table lamp or pendant lights to create a striking 3D art contrast.

Architectural 3D Elements

Architectural details can also completely change how a space feels. Wainscoting, coffered ceilings and panel molding add a sense of craftsmanship while providing a 3D perspective. For a sleek, modern look, fluted wall panels or slated wood partitions can subtly define spaces with a high-end designer look. Additionally, arched doorways, alcoves or curved built-in shelving bring fluidity with a softer touch, making long walls feel full of life. Complete the space with track lighting or recessed fixtures to cast intriguing shadows and enhance that pop.

Whether aiming for subtle sophistication or bold statement pieces, 3D art and elements in your home should complement the overall aesthetic. Mix cohesive color palettes and materials to create harmony – and transform your space from dull to dynamic in a breeze.

Time to spring into action to make the most of every sunny day and fresh breeze coming your way!

Even the smallest of outdoor spaces can be transformed into welcoming, functional outdoor retreats with these easy spruce ups.

1. Clean and Declutter

Start by giving everything some TLC. Sweep away debris. Wipe down all surfaces and furniture. If you have a wood deck, check if it’s due for resealing. For patios, a power wash can remove built-up dirt and make it look like new. And be sure to remove any clutter like broken furniture or that pot of wilted annuals from last year.

2. Make It Multi-Functional

Whether you’re kicking back with a book or hosting some friends, plot out what you’ll need for your cozy space to serve multiple purposes. Maybe it’s an ottoman or bench that doubles as a side table and storage. Choose space-saving furniture, like a foldable table and chair set, that can be tucked away and then pulled out for entertaining. A small rolling cart can be easily moved around the space and also serve as a bar cart for serving drinks.

3. Add Ambiance With Lighting

As a low-cost investment, the right lighting can transform your space. Make your outdoor area extra inviting with solar-powered LED fixtures or some easy-to-hang string lights. Try battery-operated lanterns or candles for a flickering effect. Layers of soft lighting will extend your outdoor enjoyment into the wee hours.

4. Create a Private, Green Oasis

Go vertical and add layers of greenery to make your space feel more intimate! Some easy fixes include self-standing bamboo screens, hanging planters, a ladder-style plant holder, rail-mounted flower boxes or a vine-covered trellis. For a fragrant touch, incorporate herbal plants like basil, rosemary and lavender.

5. Get Personal

Finally, make it your own! Mix in cozy textiles, weather-resistant pillows and other luxurious touches. Opt for washable fabrics that you can easily clean. Consider adding a rug for texture and comfort. Other ways to personalize: Include a piece of artwork, a decorative sculpture or even a small wall-mounted water feature for a soothing vibe.

With a little creativity, you can turn your small outdoor space into the perfect spot to soak up the sunshine, relax with a refreshing drink or entertain friends. Start prepping now – so your retreat is ready to go!

Natural light, indoor plants, organic materials and outdoor views are key to biophilic design, enhancing the home’s décor while improving mental health.

A subtle, transformative shift is taking place in the world of home décor. Forget sleek, minimalist lines or industrial-chic finishes – today’s latest trend is all about bringing the outdoors in through biophilic design. Grounded in the idea that our physical and emotional health is intrinsically linked to nature, this style integrates a variety of organic elements to create a beautiful, serene environment.

Natural Light

Exposure to sunlight is one of the most important components of biophilic design. Large windows, skylights and open areas enhance the atmosphere and have been shown to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. Make your space bright and airy by replacing heavy curtains with breezy fabrics or light-filtering blinds and let the sun shine in!

Scenic Views

To feel a sense of freedom and connection with the world beyond your four walls, you should orient your furniture toward natural views, like a backyard garden, a park or a sweeping vista of mountains or forests. If windows are limited, incorporating landscape paintings or photography would be a good alternative.

Indoor Plants

Introducing greenery into your décor not only brings a welcome burst of color but also purifies the air and lifts the spirit. From hanging planters to indoor gardens, vibrant foliage gives life to most any room. If you don’t have a green thumb, consider easy-to-care-for succulents, ferns or snake plants. Herb gardens are a further option, offering culinary benefits while improving the ambience.

Organic Materials

Using materials that can be found in al fresco settings is another hallmark of this home décor trend. Think wooden furniture, stone countertops, bamboo flooring and wool rugs. These products are sustainable and tactile, helping to create an earthy vibe that is grounding and comforting. They also add visual interest and dimension.

Water Features

The calming sound of flowing water can help foster a peaceful environment – and you don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy the benefits. Aquatic pieces come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from table-top fountains to standing features that include stone or wood. If you work remotely, a water feature in your home office could even boost your productivity and focus.

Textures and Patterns

Nature is full of variety, from the roughness of stone to the intricacy of leaves to the symmetry of snowflakes. Biophilic style seeks to bring this diversity into the home with organically inspired throw pillows, lamps and wall hangings. Textile or fabric wallpaper made from grass cloth or bamboo is another eco-friendly option.

Biophilic design is more than just a fleeting fad – it’s a way of living that honors our connection to nature and its profound impact on our health and happiness. Whether you’re creating a cozy family space, a tranquil bedroom or a relaxing home office, this increasingly popular style offers the perfect balance of beauty, functionality and well-being.

After reviewing online listings and narrowing down options with your real estate agent, you’re ready for the exciting part – touring a property!

Use this checklist to get the most out of touring a home and ensure that no detail gets overlooked during this critical step.

Pre-Visit: Do Your Homework

Before scheduling a visit, be clear about your budget and goals. In today’s competitive market, you’ll also want a preapproval letter from your lender. Next, research factors like property taxes and important area insights. It’s also helpful to review the online listing again and note any questions that are best addressed in person.

Be Prepared With a Toolkit

Use a notebook and your smartphone to record your impressions. It’s easy to forget details after you leave, especially if you’re touring a few homes. And don’t forget a flashlight, which comes in handy for inspecting dimly lit places like crawl spaces and attics.

First Impressions: Assessing the Exterior

Your tour starts the moment you arrive – as you take in the home’s curb appeal. The state of the yard and entryway can signal how well-maintained the house is overall. Are the roof and exterior in good condition? Are there cracks in the driveway? If so, consider if you have the budget for bigger ticket repairs like a new roof.

Inside the Home: Room by Room

You’re finally inside! It’s easy to get caught up in cosmetic elements and paint colors, but a thorough walk-through focuses on features that would be expensive to alter or repair:

Kitchen and Bathrooms: Check major appliances and fixtures. Turn on faucets to assess water pressure and drainage. Look for signs of heavy wear or leaks.

Bedrooms and Closets: Are the rooms large enough to accommodate your furnishings? Check the size of closets to see if they’ll meet your storage needs. Take note of flooring: Do you prefer carpet or hard flooring in bedrooms?

Basement and Attic: These spaces require extra attention during a tour since they may reveal water damage or structural issues.

Floors and Walls: Scan for cracks, stains or uneven surfaces, which could indicate foundation problems.

Beyond Basics: Use Your Senses

This is your chance to fully experience the place you may call home. Pay attention to small details to identify any red flags and determine if the home is truly a good fit.

Sight: Look for cosmetic repairs that may hide bigger problems like damaged walls or ceilings.

Sound: Take notice of noise from traffic or the neighborhood.

Smell: Check for musty odors, which could be a sign of mold, or overpowering air fresheners that might mask problems like pet odors.

Touch: Test windows, doors and light switches to be sure they’re functional.

Post-Visit: Consider Future Needs

Take stock of the pros and cons. If the property is a serious contender, plan to visit the neighborhood at different times of day to gauge traffic patterns. How move-in ready is the home? Does the layout work as is or would it require major renovations? Consider if the outdoor space meets your needs.

Keep your future plans in mind. If you’re expanding your family, are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms? Will you need a dedicated office space or first-floor bedroom? Planning ahead saves you from outgrowing a home too quickly. Finally, discuss your impressions with your agent, who can offer further insight and help you size up the property against others in the area.

Home tours are an essential step in the buying journey. Being prepared is key to ensuring you focus on the most critical aspects and get the most out of your tour.

The arrival of a new season is around the corner, and its promises of renewal and growth are the perfect excuses to start your home spring cleaning. Plus, if you’re looking to list your home in the near future, a fresh touch could increase its perceived value.

A little sprucing up can go a long way, whether adding seasonal décor or checking off some deep-clean projects. Consider:

Giving Your Outdoor Space Some TLC

Begin your home spring cleaning journey and create a welcoming seasonal vibe by boosting your home’s curb appeal. Clear away winter debris from your yard, patio or deck with a good sweep or pressure wash. You can also give the yard care by mowing the lawn and trimming bushes. Additionally, add spring charm by planting flowers like tulips, daffodils or pansies. Incorporate a cozy touch by replacing worn and torn furniture with pops of color and placing lanterns in nooks and crannies to set a welcoming ambiance for crisp spring evenings.

Letting the Spring Air In

As nature awakens and temperatures encourage indoor/outdoor living, you’ll want to continue your home spring cleaning by examining windows and doors. Repair torn screens and remove dirt, mold and debris to give it a fresh look. Also, you can add citronella candles or potted lavender near entryways to naturally repel spring bugs from entering your home.

Putting a Spring-Cleaning Shine Into Your Living Spaces

Inside, you can progress your home spring cleaning tasks and create a fresh canvas for the season by checking off a few deep-cleaning projects. Start with one room in your home at a time, beginning with smaller, manageable areas. Scan the space and consider shampooing carpets, organizing and decluttering closets or drawers (donating unused items) and scrubbing behind permanent appliances or furniture.

Creating Seasonal Inspiration

The more temperate weather invites thinner fabrics, pastel shades and warm, sunny tones. Walk through your home and see where you can add a coat of paint, artwork, patterns and strategically placed décor inspired by the season’s promises. Landscapes, botanical prints or nature-inspired patterns are go-to springtime essentials to include.

With a little effort, you can enjoy the season to its fullest. Let spring rejuvenate your home and your spirit!

Designing your home is an exciting endeavor, and a major part of the process involves choosing colors and patterns that reflect your personal style while creating the desired atmosphere.

At the same time, too much “boldness” can result in spaces that feel cluttered and chaotic. The good news is that by following these steps, you can incorporate vibrant hues and eye-catching motifs without going overboard.

1. Start With a Neutral Base

A great way to create symmetry in your home is to begin with a neutral palette. Whites, creams, grays and beiges serve as a calm foundation that allows colorful accents to stand out without dominating the space. A neutral-colored sofa or walls can act as a backdrop for bright throw pillows, rugs or curtains in more daring colors or styles.

2. Make Sure Your Color Scheme Flows

One of the most important aspects of interior design is making sure colors flow from room to room, ensuring a sense of cohesion. While you don’t want every space to look identical, using a consistent color palette throughout can enhance visual interest and a sense of unity. If you’re using different patterns or colors in each room, make sure they share at least one common color.

3. Pair Patterns With Solids

The trick to adding personality and visual interest is to coordinate intricate pieces with solid-colored items to give the eye a place to rest. If you’re using a bold geometric print on a rug or throw blanket, pair it with solid-colored furniture or pillows. You should also consider size and scale. If you have a dominating design on your curtains or sofa, go for smaller, subtler patterns for the other elements.

4. Limit the Number of Bold Statements

Too much design can overwhelm a space, so you should focus on mixing a few well-chosen prints and dispersing them with solid or lightly ornamented elements. A room with a plaid rug, a floral throw pillow and striped curtains can quickly become too busy. Try to stick with two to three designs at most.

5. Don’t Forget About Texture

While visual appeal is important, texture plays an equally vital role in creating a well-proportioned space. Using soft velvet cushions, woven baskets or a woolen throw adds depth to your room without the need for extra ornamentation. Incorporating natural materials like wood, stone or linen can also ground more vibrant decor, making the space feel cozy and inviting.

6. Test Elements in Small Doses

If you’re unsure about how a color or pattern will work in your space, start by trying it out in smaller areas. You can experiment with paint samples on a single wall, a bold rug or flashy artwork. Once you feel confident that the new addition complements the space, you can gradually introduce it on a larger scale.

7. Know When to Keep It Simple

If you find yourself drawn to vibrant hues and intricate patterns but worry they may overwhelm the space, consider creating a focal point rather than filling the entire room with bold choices. A feature wall or a striking piece of art can be the star of the room, with the rest of the space kept minimalistic to allow that one element to shine.

Using colors and patterns thoughtfully is about creating balance, harmony and a cohesive look that feels good to live in. By being strategic, you can embrace your unique style and personality while enjoying the beauty and impact of adventurous, forward-thinking design.