“Satin and semi-gloss each have their place in the home,” says Erika Woelfel, vice president of color and creative services at Behr. However, telling satin vs. semi-gloss apart can get somewhat tricky. Is semi-gloss shinier than satin? To answer, pay attention to the main ingredients: pigment, the powdery ingredient that gives paint its color; and resinous binder. The more resin a paint has, the shinier it is. That’s because it allows the paint to flow more and soaks up the powdery pigment well, making for a smooth consistency. 

Semi-gloss, one step under high-gloss in terms of sheen,  is shinier than satin because it has a higher percentage of resinous binder than pigment. Satin is shinier than eggshell and matte finishes for the same reason. Both semi-gloss and satin are available in traditional paint types including oil-based, latex, and low- or no-VOC (volatile organic compound) versions. However, the subtle differences in satin vs semi-gloss paint can make one a distinctly better fit for your project than another.

Satin Paint

Satin finish paint has a slight sheen, so it reflects light better than both eggshell and matte finish interior paints. But satin absorbs more light than semi-gloss paint, and thus is forgiving of pre-existing imperfections. So, with this in mind, what is satin paint used for? “A satin finish, like Behr Premium Plus Interior Satin Enamel, offers a soft, durable look that resists dirt—ideal for living rooms, hallways, and bedrooms,” says Woelfel. 

If you’ve got dings and dents in your walls, cabinets, or soon-to-be-painted dresser, the flatter nature of satin will look better over pocks, divots, and scrapes since it draws the light in and tricks the eye into seeing a more even surface. If you want to deflect attention away from faults and blemishes without spending hours sanding them away, satin is the way to go.

That said, satin paint such as Benjamin Moore Regal Select Interior Paint in the satin/pearl finish is durable and somewhat light-reflective, so it works in areas where semi-gloss is too shiny. “It is perfect for adding a subtle contrast against walls painted in a matte or eggshell finish,” says David Underwood, associate technical project manager at Benjamin Moore. 

Satin Paint Pros and Cons

When to Use Satin Paint

Use satin finish paint when you want to:

• Highlight a ceiling or other well-lit surface without creating too much glare
• Brighten up a hallway
• Cover living-area walls that have imperfections or require regular paint touch-ups
• Paint high-traffic areas

Semi-Gloss Paint

Semi-gloss paint’s higher percentage of resin compared to pigment results in a shinier, and therefore, more light-reflective finish than satin. When looking at the difference between gloss and semi-gloss paint on walls or trim, it’s the mirror-like finish of gloss that is a step up from the semi-gloss sheen. 

“A semi-gloss finish is more luminous and perfectly suited to highlight architectural details of your home and create dimension on millwork, trim, wainscoting, and doors,” says Underwood. If used on living-area walls, semi-gloss paints like Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint create too much of a glare and can make paint colors appear darker. Factor that in when you’re making a final decision about which paint finish to use. 

However, there are cases when semi-gloss is the best choice. “Semi-gloss, such as Behr Ultra Scuff Defense Interior Semi-Gloss Enamel, provides a higher sheen with added moisture-resistance, making it perfect for trim, doors, cabinets, and high-traffic spaces like kitchens and bathrooms,” says Woelfel.

Semi-Gloss Paint Pros and Cons

When to Use Semi-Gloss Paint

Use semi-gloss when you want to:

• Increase the light reflection in a room
• Ensure ease of cleanup in bathrooms or kids’ rooms
• Repaint your garage doors for shine and easy cleanup
• Highlight millwork such as banisters, chair rails, or architectural features in old houses
• Create a durable surface on high-touch areas like baseboards, interior doors, or kitchen cabinets
• Reduce mildew and mold in high-moisture areas like basements or laundry rooms

Differences Between Satin and Semi-Gloss Paint

Sheen

Semi-gloss has more sheen than satin because of the higher resin-to-pigment ratio. But how will you tell the difference when you’re looking at a wall? You’ve likely seen shiny baseboard paint  up against a more matte wall. That’s likely a semi-gloss finish because it’s the best paint for doors and trim when paired with satin. But if you’re looking at an existing paint job and wondering whether it’s satin or semi-gloss, try feeling it. Semi-gloss has a sort of plastic-like, sticky texture compared to the more matte satin finish, which feels much like the surface of an eggshell.

Maintenance 

“For a balance of durability and aesthetics, satin works well in most spaces, while semi-gloss delivers extra protection where frequent cleaning is needed,” says Underwood. The higher the gloss, the easier the cleanup of messes like fingerprints and smudges. For objects and areas that get a lot of use and therefore require frequent wipe-downs—bathrooms, kitchens, playrooms, and kids’ bedrooms, semi-gloss is often the wiser option. 

Because a semi-gloss painted surface is slicker, it’s more resistant to moisture and easier to go over with a damp cloth or special sprays designed for minor household disasters. While both are durable compared to eggshell or matte options, semi-gloss has a slight advantage thanks to the additional binders that give it both a higher sheen and more resistance to fading or grease stains.

Price

In general, the higher the gloss, the higher the price, but usually the difference is minor. “Both satin and semi-gloss finishes have a reflective quality and equivalent price point,” says Underwood. “The higher percentage of resinous binders in the semi-gloss can make it slightly more expensive than satin paints.” So, if you’re looking to save a little bit of money buying paint for the whole home interior, satin is the most budget-worthy option of the two that still offers a hint of sheen.

FAQs

The post Satin vs. Semi-Gloss Paint: What’s the Difference? appeared first on Bob Vila.

Since space heaters can be an integral part of an efficient home heating plan, space heater safety is a vital priority this winter to mitigate these fire risks. So how do you avoid a house fire? Know the most common–and costly–mistakes people make with portable heaters, and don’t repeat them in your own home.

1. DON’T crowd your space heater.

Give your space heater a wide berth, particularly around textiles. Space heaters and fabrics of any type are a deadly combo. “Keep your space heater at least 3 to 5 feet away from any fabric items such as furniture, bedding, curtains, rugs or anything flammable,” says Todd Tripp, general contractor and home improvement expert with JustAnswer. In fact, space heater fires are most commonly caused by some sort of fabric, including clothing, upholstered furniture, or even mattresses, that comes in contact with or sits too close to the heater.

2. DON’T place the heater on furniture.

Don’t set your space heater on top of a dresser, table, or other piece of furniture. An accidental bump or a curious cat could knock the heater to the floor, leading to a burn injury or a fire hazard. “Space heaters should not be placed on furniture or countertops, even if your countertop is a flat surface. That placement could pose a variety of risks to your home,” says Mollie Treloar, heating expert at Tractor Supply. The furniture or countertop could also be damaged, especially if the surface is not heat-resistant. “Additionally, elevated surfaces like furniture or countertops often offer more restricted airflow than the floor does, which may lead to overheating,” Treloar adds.

“If you don’t have any hard surface flooring, [place] your heater on a stable, non-flammable surface… [such as] ceramic tiles or a heat resistant mat.”

Mollie Treloar, heating expert at Tractor Supply

3. DON’T put the heater on a carpet or area rug.

Not only must your space heater sit on the floor, but it’s safe only when the floor is a hard surface. Never place a space heater on top of an area rug or carpeting. They tend to trap heat and could ignite if they get warm enough. “Having carpeted floors can make using a space heater tricky, but that doesn’t mean it’s not possible,” Treloar says. “If you don’t have any hard surface flooring, then placing your heater on a stable, non-flammable surface is the best bet for safety. This could be ceramic tiles or a heat resistant mat. Just make sure the surface is bigger than the heater’s base, and set it on a level spot to prevent tipping.”

4. And NEVER run cords under the rug.

It’s a common scenario: You want the space heater close enough to chase away the chill, but the nearest electrical outlet is all the way across the room. You consider running the space heater’s cord underneath an area rug. Don’t do it! Running the cord under the rug introduces the much graver danger of fire. “The rug covering the cord can trap any heat generated by the cord during use and increase risk of overheating and fires,” Treloar says. “The rug fibers can also cause damage to the cord over time and lead to malfunction and spark risk. Also, the cord covered by the rug can pose a major trip hazard to your family and pets as they would not be able to see it while walking.”

5. DON’T use an extension cord.

As with any appliance or device that generates heat, never plug a space heater into an extension cord or a power strip. The high power demand of the space heater can cause the extension cord or power strip to short-circuit or overheat, potentially causing a fire. Instead, always plug your space heater directly into a wall outlet, and don’t plug anything else into the same outlet while the space heater is running.

6. DON’T leave pets or kids in the room unattended.

The pleasant warmth of a space heater is like a magnet for cats, but a curious—or chilly—dog may also be attracted. Though they may want to hang out near the device, never leave pets unattended in any room with a running space heater. Turn the space heater off when you leave the room.

7. DON’T expose the heater to moisture.

It might be tempting to use a space heater to warm up your bathroom while you shower, but resist the urge. “Because of a bathroom’s increased humidity and proximity to water, you have to take extra precautions with your space heater,” Treloar says. “Take care to use a model specifically designed for the bathroom, and make sure you place your heater far enough away from your sink, shower, or bathtub to eliminate the risk of water damage or splashing.” 

8. DON’T run a space heater overnight.

Leaving your space heater running all night long while you sleep is a no-no. “Space heaters need to be respected as a highly flammable appliance,” Tripp says. If the unit overheats, tips over, or short-circuits overnight, a fire could break out while you’re fast asleep. Use the heater to warm up your room before bed, and then switch it off right before you slide between the sheets.

9. DON’T forget to check for certification.

Before buying a space heater, check that it’s been certified. “Space heaters with a UL (Underwriters Laboratory), CSA (Canadian Standards Association), and ETL (Intertek) should only be used,” Tripp says. “Space heaters with one of these certifications have been tested and approved for safety electrically and fire hazards.” Normally, the certification will be indicated on the space heater’s packaging. These organizations perform rigorous tests to ensure that home electronics are as safe as possible.

“Any strange sounds, such as rattling or buzzing, or unusual smells, like burning or electrical odors, are immediate red flags. These could indicate internal damage or potential fire hazards.”

Mollie Treloar, heating expert at Tractor Supply

10. DON’T use a secondhand space heater.

Found a space heater bargain at your local thrift store or neighborhood garage sale? Just walk away. While there are some electronic devices you can get secondhand and use with some safety precautions, space heaters should never be one of them. The certification sticker could be missing or never have existed. The wiring could be frayed, internal parts could be damaged, and it’s nearly impossible to determine how old a space heater is outside of the box. Using old or damaged space heaters is a recipe for disaster.

11. DON’T continue using a space heater when it’s old or damaged.

While just about all of today’s space heaters have multiple safety features, including an auto shut-off if the unit gets too hot, tips over, or runs for too long, that’s not true of space heaters made a decade or more ago. “If it’s over 10 years old, it may lack modern safety features and efficiency,” Treloar says. She says that signs the heating elements are wearing out include taking longer to heat up a room or not heating as effectively as the unit used to. Other reasons to look for a replacement: “Any strange sounds, such as rattling or buzzing, or unusual smells, like burning or electrical odors, are immediate red flags. These could indicate internal damage or potential fire hazards. Also, any signs of physical damage, such as cracks in the casing, frayed cords, or scorch marks. These are clear indicators that the heater is no longer safe to use and should be replaced,” she says.

12. NEVER put the space heater in front of a doorway or egress point. 

Nothing should ever block the doorway of your bedroom or the route you would need to take from your bed to that doorway in an emergency—especially not something that gets scalding hot. To keep you safe from dangerous trips and tumbles, your space heater needs to be positioned at least a couple of feet to the side of any doorway, path, or high-traffic area of your home.

13. DON’T put things on top of your space heater.

You might think the space heater is the perfect spot to dry those snowy mittens, but you’d be dangerously wrong. “Space heaters are designed to heat spaces, not to dry clothing, and using them for this purpose can pose significant safety risks,” Treloar says. “Clothing that is placed too close to a space heater can overheat and potentially catch fire, especially draping clothing over a space heater to dry it faster. Draping can block air vents and cause the heater to overheat, increasing the likelihood of a malfunction or fire.” The same is true for storing items on top of your heater. “Modern space heaters are built with overheating protection safety features, but these are not foolproof and should not be relied upon if the heater is being used inappropriately.”

14. DON’T run propane space heaters without ventilation.

Non-electric space heaters, such as propane space heaters, can release carbon monoxide when in use. To operate these heaters safely, place them in a well-ventilated area or outdoors on a patio. “You should also choose a model equipped with safety features like an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS), which shuts the heater off if oxygen levels fall too low,” Treloar adds. “Finally, when refueling, users should also take care to choose the correct fuel type for their heater and always let the space heater cool before refueling to minimize fire risk.

The post 14 Space Heater Safety Mistakes That Could Burn Down Your House appeared first on Bob Vila.

The U.S. government estimates that one in 36 children are on the autism spectrum, and some of these children may require accommodations when trick-or-treating. When a homeowner puts out a blue pumpkin on their porch, it shows that they’re supportive of people who have autism and are willing to talk about it to raise awareness.

The Second Blue Pumpkin Meaning

Strobing lights, masks and costumes, and crowds of strangers can be a lot to process on Halloween, and some autistic children can face sensory overload while trick-or-treating. Blue pumpkins and a sensory-friendly Halloween display not only show the homeowner’s support for ASD awareness, but also lets children with autism and their parents or guardians know that your house is a safe place for them to participate in this fun holiday tradition. Some autistic children may also carry blue pumpkin buckets on Halloween, but homes with blue pumpkins make homeowners’ accommodations clear while helping to spread community awareness.

The concept of displaying blue pumpkins on Halloween began as a grassroots social media movement and isn’t associated with any specific ASD advocacy organization. Since gaining popularity online, the concept has caught on across the country to make Halloween more accessible for everyone.

Blue Pumpkins Show Autism Awareness

Once you’ve decided to display a blue pumpkin, meaning that your home accommodates autistic trick-or-treaters who have sensory needs, there are a few things you should do before Halloween night. First, take some time to research ASD so that you’re well-informed and prepared to accommodate children on the autism spectrum. When decorating, avoid light displays that flash or strobe, as well as any additional loud noises, scents, or animated decorations. Be patient with kids who come to your door, and because some children may be nonverbal, don’t insist on them saying “trick-or-treat” before you hand out candy.

There is no shortage of great blue pumpkin ideas for a DIY sensory friendly display, but there are also plenty of blue pumpkins to buy in store and online. This blue pumpkin window cling mimics stained glass and at a great price. Or create a display on the porch with a bundle of blue coastal fall pumpkins in the seller’s color called Mediterranean to echo the autism-awareness shade of blue.

The Meanings Behind Other Unusual Halloween Pumpkin Colors

Other organizations have seen the success of the blue pumpkin trend and created their own trends with different colored pumpkins.

The Teal Pumpkin Project

It’s easy to confuse blue pumpkins with teal pumpkins, which are used to show that a house can accommodate trick-or-treaters with food allergies. Despite the similar colors, the Teal Pumpkin Project was started to raise awareness and accommodate children with food allergies on Halloween.

Children carrying teal candy buckets are likely allergic to one or more ingredients commonly found in Halloween candy and would appreciate a nonfood treat. Some popular choices include stickers, glow sticks, bubbles, pencils, vampire fangs, and other small toys. Meanwhile, displaying a teal pumpkin on your porch lets people know that these allergy-friendly treats are available at your house. You can also opt for this Halloween teal pumpkin garden flag that gets the message across.

The Purple Pumpkin Project

The Purple Pumpkin Project was created to promote epilepsy awareness, and households can display purple pumpkins to show their support. In 2020, however, purple pumpkins took on a new meaning when homeowners used them to indicate that they would be following Covid-19 safety protocols while handing out candy.

While these pandemic precautions have largely been lifted since then, if you see a purple pumpkin among a neighbor’s Halloween decorations this year, it may indicate that those giving out candy will be wearing masks and following other sanitation measures to prevent disease spread.

Since October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and purple is the color identified with raising awareness, you might also see purple pumpkins displayed to show that domestic violence happens everywhere. Show your support by donating to causes like the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

The Pink Pumpkin Project

October is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the color pink has become associated with breast cancer awareness, support, and solidarity among survivors. So if you see a pink pumpkin on someone’s doorstep, a survivor or a person undergoing treatment might live at the house. Or the residents are simply supportive of the cause and want to share that support with families visiting on Halloween. It’s a great reminder to make a donation to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Decorating Your Own Colorful Pumpkins

Painting pumpkins to raise awareness–or just to elevate the look of your porch display–is a family-friendly and easy DIY project. You’ll have options when it comes to choosing the best paint for pumpkins depending on the size of your project.

Water-based paints work best, so you’ll want to choose acrylic or latex. If you are painting one or a few pumpkins, you can use acrylic craft paint, which is usually a bargain buy. Choose FolkArt metallic aquamarine for a glistening teal pumpkin, or try FolkArt acrylic paint in true blue for the ASD awareness pumpkin.

If you have a big batch of colored pumpkins you’d like to paint for an occasion, save money by using a gallon of latex house paint. Simply take a color sample to your local paint store and ask them to match it.

Another fun way to decorate the pumpkins is with spray paint. Paint the gourd blue or purple, let it dry, cover it with newspaper, and for the stem use gold spray paint or another metallic like copper.

For a rustic look, grab a jar of chalk paint and paint pumpkins with some aging effects. We like Kilz Chalk Style Paint, the top pick in our list of best chalk paints. Choose authentic navy or blue juniper for a medium blue or teal look.

The post What Does a Blue Pumpkin Mean on Halloween? appeared first on Bob Vila.

Build an outdoor fire pit.

During the summer months, nothing beats roasting marshmallows and sharing stories around a roaring fire. Homeowners who install an outdoor fire pit will not only create delightful memories, but will also realize a 67 percent return on investment. Fire features that have a gas burner and 10-foot-diameter flagstone patio surround cost an average of $9,000 to construct, and you’ll recoup about $5,000 when you sell your home, according to the National Association of Realtors’ (NAR) and National Association of Landscape Professionals’ (NALP) 2023 Remodeling Report: Outdoor Features.

Replace your garage door.

You might think your current garage doors are good enough, but upgrading them will give your curb appeal and home value a major boost. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs Value Report, an insulated steel garage door replacement will cost you an average of $4,513, but you’ll recoup 194 percent of that, the highest return on investment of all the projects in the study. When prospective buyers pull up, your home will already be making a great impression.

Upgrade your front door.

While making cosmetic changes to the front of your house, upgrade your front door. Swapping your drab door for a steel unit with window panels, casing, and new hardware averages $2,355, but the Remodeling Magazine report estimates that you’ll make 188 percent of that back. An upgraded entryway not only increases the home’s value, but it also sets the tone for a strong first impression with potential buyers.

Implement a lawn-care program.

If you want a good-looking lawn, you need to supply sufficient nutrients and take steps to reduce weeds. Enrolling in a DIY lawn-care program or subscription will help you stay on track. The NAR and NALP recommend an average of six applications of lawn fertilizer and weed-control annually, which will cost around $415 for a 5,000-square-foot lawn. Your efforts will earn you a 217 percent ROI of $900. Not bad for a little fertilizer.

Keep up with landscape maintenance.

The landscaping around your home paints a picture of a well-cared-for property. To ensure buyers get that impression, regular landscape maintenance is a must. The NAR and NALP include regularly mowing a 2,835-square-foot lawn, annual mulch application, pruning shrubs, and planting about 60 perennials or annuals throughout the year. This will run you $4,800 on average, but you’ll recoup $5,000 of that, a return of 104 percent.

Fix the facade.

Replacing the exterior siding sounds like an expensive and immense project, but it is actually one of the most cost-effective ways to improve your home’s value, according to Remodeling Magazine—it’s just about doing it right. The report suggests focusing efforts solely on the front of the home. Using manufactured stone veneer, the average cost is $11,287, but you’re projected to earn back 153 percent. If you opt for replacing siding with new fiber-cement siding, the average replacement cost will be $20,619 and you’ll recoup 88 percent of that project investment. Or go with vinyl siding and recoup 80 percent of the cost, which averages $17,410.

Refresh your landscape.

Luscious landscaping increases the chance of a home sale. Plus, according to the NAR and NALP, an outdoor makeover could net you 100 percent return on investment. The association defines a “landscape upgrade” as installing a natural flagstone walkway, adding stone planters, mulching, and planting a handful of flowering shrubs and a sizable tree—all of which will set you back, on average, roughly $9,000.

Add a deck.

Do you enjoy spending time outdoors? Then consider installing an attached or detached wood deck, which will give you the perfect spot for grilling, sunbathing, and entertaining. Wooden decks are a major selling point. According to Remodeling Magazine, a 16-foot x 20-foot wood deck with pressure-treated joists supported by 4×4-inch posts anchored to concrete piers, plus stairs, railings, and a built-in planter runs an average of $17,615, but you’ll recoup 88 percent of that when it’s time to sell. However, if you’d prefer to build with composite decking, you’ll only recoup 68 percent of the overall cost, which averages $24,206.

Lay a backyard patio.

Installing a patio is another project that expands and enhances your outside living area while increasing the value of your home. According to NAR and NALP, an 18-foot by 16-foot concrete paver patio costs about $10,500 and you’ll recoup 95 percent of the cost, making a backyard patio a worthwhile investment for both your and your future buyer’s enjoyment.

Invest in an outdoor kitchen.

An outdoor kitchen might not be on some homebuyers’ must-have lists, but it is increasingly a feature that could seal the deal for the sale. NAR and NALP claim an outdoor kitchen project will set you back about $15,000, but you’ll recover all $15,000 when you sell your home. To guarantee the best ROI, keep the outdoor kitchen project simple: an inset grill, stainless steel drawers, ice chest, sink, and 60 square feet of concrete countertop are all you need.

Add outdoor lighting.

Outdoor lighting deters burglars and creates magical ambience in your yard. What’s more, stylish, effective exterior lighting (think motion lights or low-voltage landscape lighting options) can really improve your home’s curb appeal. You can expect to pay up to $6,800 for a transformer and 20 LED lights. On average, say the NAR and NALP, you could see, on average, a 59 percent return on your investment.

Plant some trees.

Tree maintenance might not be the most exciting project, but it certainly pays off. The joint NAR and NALP report describes tree care as including three applications of tree fertilizer, regular spraying, trimming and pruning, as well as the possible removal of a tree. This can cost up to $2,875, but you’re expected to recover $2,500 back. Planting new trees on the property can also add value. The Economics of Urban Forestry, a 2021 study by the Arbor Day Foundation, estimates that yard trees could add up to 20 percent to the resale value of your home, in part thanks to the energy savings they provide.

Install a lawn sprinkler system.

One of the best investments for a great-looking lawn is a buried sprinkler system. When calculating the ROI of installing a sprinkler system, which runs around $6,000, you should also consider the amount you’ll probably save on water. According to the NAR and NALP report, you’ll recover $5,000 or 83 percent from the project.

The post 13 Outdoor Upgrades That Make Your Home More Valuable appeared first on Bob Vila.

Install crown molding.

In older homes, it’s all about the small details. Take crown molding, for example. Available in widths from simple to extravagant, crown molding provides a finishing touch in any room. Before you do it yourself, check that you’ve got the right tools for the job or hire a pro to help you cut each piece to size and install it properly against the wall.

Mix up the furniture.

If you want to achieve a layered, lived-in look, then buying all your furniture at a department store in one afternoon won’t cut it. Instead, either gradually acquire your pieces over time to achieve the mismatched heirlooms-and-world-traveler look. Or go with mixed styles at the start by buying secondhand furniture with character. Think Chesterfield tufted sofas, nesting tables, and gold-framed mirrors. Craft fairs, antiques stores, art exhibits, and online marketplaces offer unusual pieces that can infuse your home with timeless charm.

Paint the drywall.

Nothing dates a home like color. If you’re trying to evoke a particular period, a change of hue can transport your home back in time. Arts and Crafts, Victorian, and Colonial interiors each call for different historic paint colors, and paint companies offer collections to help you mix up the perfect combination.

Add built-ins for decorative storage.

Not only are built-in shelves and bookcases practical—turning empty spaces into valuable storage nooks—but they also give a home a stately, custom look. Alter the styling according to your taste. For instance, a built-in lined with beadboard appears farmhouse-rustic, while darker wood tones call to mind a dignified old library. Built-in wardrobes in a bedroom create storage along with charm.

Tile the ceiling.

While tin ceilings rose to popularity in the 1880s, they’re still in vogue today. Whether you add these tiles to your kitchen ceiling or use them to create an eye-catching vintage backsplash, they’re certain to bring in historical charm. For a lower-cost option, purchase Styrofoam ceiling tiles that offer the same old-fashioned look for less and still leave a lasting impression.

DIY your own wainscoting.

The three-dimensional quality of wainscoting adds a finishing touch to plain-Jane painted drywall. This millwork comes in a variety of styles, and for DIYers with good basic home improvement skills, it’s not too difficult to install wainscoting yourself. If you want to take your old-home quotient up a notch, remember that in older homes the fanciest wainscoting was reserved for the main floors. Save simpler wainscoting designs for the family quarters. Wainscoting isn’t just for the indoors either. Board-and-batten was often used on farmhouse exteriors during the Arts and Crafts era.

Choose natural materials.

There’s nothing wrong with laminate or vinyl surfaces, but if you want your countertops or floors to appear older—sturdier, even—opt for natural materials. For example, you might consider wood or stone countertops, and ceramic tile or hardwood floors. If you’re decorating to imitate a bygone era, keep in mind that wide-plank wood floors have a more antique look than narrow boards.

Change up your cabinet pulls.

They didn’t have brushed aluminum and acrylic cabinet hardware back in the old days. So you know what you should replace in your house? Any pulls in your home that are made of these newfangled materials. In your kitchen and bathroom, consider using glass knobs, which were popular in the early 1900s when metal was in short supply due to the Great Depression and World Wars. To echo the look throughout your home, do the same with your desk drawer handles, dresser pulls, and closet doors.

Add antique accents to the staircase.

Most new houses are modeled after Colonial-era homes, with the staircase front and center and the various rooms stemming off a main hall. Consider replacing the handrails and newel post with more elegant woodwork. Check demolition auction sales, classified ads, and online sites to snag pieces that will make an impression. And if you really want to do it up right, rip up your wall-to-wall carpeting and install a stair runner for a signature antique look.

Upgrade your light switch and outlet plates.

Builder’s-grade light switch and outlet plates are plain and lack any bit of visual appeal. Look for nickel and brass finishes to stay era-appropriate. You can check antiques shops if you’re a purist, but there are plenty of reproduction pieces that’ll do just fine. Be sure to follow safety guidelines when working with any kind of electrical project.

Create a focal point with a statement light fixture.

Nothing screams contractor-built home like contractor-grade lighting. Replace generic ceiling fixtures for something that has more character, like chandeliers in the entry hall and living spaces. Outdoors, don’t forget the antique brass lanterns.

Hang wallpaper with vintage patterns.

Wallpaper was a popular choice in the early 1900s, but by the millennium it was outdated, and a pain to hang. Luckily, advancements like peel-and-stick application have made wallpaper much easier to put up. Covering blank walls with a fun pattern will make a major difference. 

Replace exterior doors.

Swap out your simple exterior doors for ones that have more architectural interest, or paint them in shades that evoke an earlier era. You’ll be surprised at what a difference it makes when you switch your drab metal garage doors with warm wood ones. Swap out a lackluster porch entrance with an inviting Dutch door, which is split into independently operating upper and lower sections, allowing fresh air to flow. Look for doors of yesteryear at flea markets and salvage shops.

Close up the open floor plan.

First floors in newer houses tend to be light and airy, while in older homes these family spaces are more likely to be snug and intimate. Although retrofitting interior walls may seem impractical or undesirable, there are plenty of ways to divvy up large spaces. For instance, half walls and built-in cabinets or bookcases are great for creating smaller functional areas. If construction seems too daunting, consider using strategically placed furnishings or a vintage-style folding room screen to define cozier spaces.

Texturize flat interior doors.

A builder’s grade flush interior door gives off a cold, no-frills vibe that positively trumpets “contemporary.” Do a little research into styles that capture the period you’re aiming for and replace those drab doors with more elegant paneled options. As an alternative, you can save some money by applying trim to your flat doors to create a paneled look.

Swap out kitchen and bath fixtures.

In the kitchen and bathroom, retro-style sinks, faucets, vanities, and bathtubs help foster an old-house aesthetic. Opt for two-handle faucets rather than single-handle styles and classic white ceramic or porcelain sinks instead of stainless. Reliable old-house touches include a claw-foot tub and pedestal sink in the bathroom, and an expansive, farmhouse-style sink with an integrated drainboard in the kitchen.

Make the most of custom trim.

Interiors of old houses were frequently embellished with custom trim work. Bring the craftsmanship of the past to your own home with details like ceiling medallions, fancy door moldings, and chair rail and picture molding. Carefully chosen and installed trim can add interest and texture to boring surfaces and imbue a room with elegance and a sense of history.

Trade out the doorknobs.

Why settle for basic, functional interior door knobs when there’s such a wealth of period-appropriate styles available, both reproduction and salvaged? Recall the grace of bygone days with crystal or porcelain knobs, or brass knobs with floral patterns, all paired with decorative backplates. Remember: Small details like doorknobs can have an outsize impact.

Add beams to the ceiling.

Wood beams are a wonderful way to add character to both modern and traditional interiors. Accent the ceiling of a long room by adding evenly spaced beams, or mount a single beam over a doorway for a dramatic take on trim. With real and faux wood beams available at a variety of price points, they’re a great way to create character overhead without going overboard.

Create a wood accent wall.

As an alternative to a painted accent wall, wood paneling offers instant warmth and cabin-like coziness, and creates a one-of-a-kind focal point. For a modern look, position the planks horizontally and leave them natural. Opt for whitewash for an informal beachy or lived-in cottage feel. 

The post 20 Ways to Make Your New House Look Old appeared first on Bob Vila.

Adding poolside lighting grants greater pool-area visibility, a must-have for homes with kids, pets, or accident-prone individuals to avoid dangerous pool mistakes. Additionally, the right lights around a pool make a space more inviting, more festive, and can show off your favorite home features at night.

These swimming pool lighting ideas can help you transform your poolside into a more practical and aesthetically pleasing space.

Benefits of Pool Lighting

Pool lights and lighting around pool areas have advantages beyond aesthetics. With the right lighting choices, homeowners can relax and enjoy the backyard after dark. Benefits of pool lighting include:

• Additional swim time: Many pool owners enjoy nighttime swimming, but pool lighting also allows owners to swim in the early morning before the sun has risen.
• Safety for family and guests: It’s tough to relax fully if everyone is worried that a guest might fall into the pool. Worse, if a child lives in the home, they could stumble into the pool at night without realizing how close they were to the edge. Lighting in the pool as well as lighting overhead, around pool decks, and the adjacent yard can provide peace of mind to homeowners with pools.
• Property safety: Illuminating the outside of your home dissuades criminals, so why stop at the porch light? A well-lit pool and deck will warn potential thieves that someone could be watching them.
• Lighting sets a mood: Whether planning a romantic evening poolside or a festive family gathering, color-changing pool lighting can set the right mood for the occasion. For holidays, select traditional colors, such as purple and orange for Halloween or red and green for Christmas.
• Highlights pool features: Some homeowners have rocks, waterfalls, and fountains as features around the pool, and the right lighting can enhance these features. Swimming pool lighting ideas might include lights inside the fountain or behind a waterfall for a dazzling effect.
• Can highlight the home’s architectural features: Pool lighting that is placed on the deck or overhead on pergolas can serve to illuminate other backyard structures, including raised seating areas or adjacent barbecue grilling setups.

Types of Pool Lighting

There are seemingly endless variations on where and how to place your pool lighting, but there are fortunately just five main types of light bulbs that are used to illuminate pools:

• LED: To save money in the long run, investing up front in pool lamps LED lighting is the way to go. According to the Department of Energy, LEDs use up to 90 percent less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional bulbs. While they cost more initially than other types of light bulbs, LEDs last longer and come in a variety of color-changing options. Features include pre-programmed color light shows, low-cost battery-operated lights, and floating LED lights for topside.
• Halogen: Halogen lights are brighter than LEDs, which makes them a good choice for large pools or areas that require more illumination. While they operate with a filament, like incandescent bulbs, halogen pool lights are longer lasting and produce a light similar to daylight, making them among the best outdoor light bulbs. On the downside, halogen lights run hotter than incandescent and LED light bulbs.
• Incandescent: Fewer and fewer homes are incorporating the incandescent light bulb into their pool lighting ideas. In many places, the ban on certain sizes of these bulbs makes them impractical to install. 
• Fiber Optic: For lighting that is housed outside of the pool, fiber optic lighting is a convenient option since pool owners don’t have to change bulbs in the water. The power box holds all the equipment for the lighting setup, and a fiber optic cable carries the power to the lights around the edge of the pool. However, along with this convenience comes a couple of drawbacks: Fiber optic lights are dimmer and tend not to last as long as other types of pool lighting.
• Solar: Solar lights that float in the pool are fun accents and can also be stationed around the deck. Pool lighting designs won’t exclusively use solar lights, but they are a good way to save energy and bring colorful, mood-setting illumination to the pool area.

What to Consider When Choosing Pool Lighting

Before choosing pool lighting, owners should consider several factors that might impact the success or failure of any setup. Things to consider include:

• Budget: Pool lighting can be as elaborate as the design of a pool. However, there are cost-effective options. Taking budget into account might limit the number of lights or the type of bulbs that are feasible. Halogen lights tend to be the least expensive up front. However, also take into account the ongoing cost of lighting, where LED bulbs will be the most cost-effective options. 
• Pool size: Larger pools require a lot of light, so going with LED swimming pool light might get costly. To get the same amount of light with LEDs that would be produced by halogen lights, the number of fixtures would need to be greater. In contrast, small pools can go with low-cost options, such as battery-operated pool lamp LEDs.
• Pool finish: If the interior of your pool is a light hue, it will reflect light better than a darker interior finish. If the pool finish is too dark, colored lights may not display accurately or brightly enough.
• Pool type: Requirements for above-ground pool lighting ideas will differ from those for in-ground pools. Above-ground pools can accommodate magnetic light fixtures and even setups that use the pool’s vented return line. In-ground pools usually include wall-mounted lights and accent lighting for special features.
• Smart Features: Integrating swimming pool lighting with smartphones or home smart hubs like Alexa is a fun way to automate and control outdoor lighting and mood. From dimmer switches to pre-programmed color light shows, the options for smart features offer pool owners ways to express their personality and style with outdoor pool lighting ideas.
• Colors: If standard white or amber light color is sufficient, pool lighting choice is simplified. However, if color shows or mood lighting are desired, owners will want to go with LED or fiber optic lighting. Solar floating ball lights are also a festive option for a colorful addition to the pool’s surface.
• Sustainability: If making eco-friendly choices are a priority for you, energy-saving LED bulbs are a great choice.

Pool Lighting Ideas

With all the basics in mind, pool owners can get expressive with pool lighting ideas. The choices should include lighting for safety, but they can also include fun features or highlight other areas of the backyard. Always consult with a pool lighting professional before making a final decision. 

1. Underwater Lights

Outside pool lights can go on or around the water, as well as in the water. Installing LED swimming pool lights below the pool surface helps illuminate the hue of the liner, giving water a soft blue glow. Nighttime swimmers will also likely feel more comfortable diving underwater when they can see where they’re going.

Of course, given the location of these outside pool lights, they are best installed during new pool construction or while renovating an existing one. 

2. String Lights

Outdoor string lights are simple, fast to set up, and a type of pool deck lighting that adds some easygoing charm to an outdoor area. With bulbs ranging in size from small twinkle lights to large Edison light bulbs, there are string lights to suit many tastes. 

Whether strung around the perimeter of the pool or draped along a nearby fence, string lights look nice wherever you hang them—but that doesn’t mean they can go anywhere. As nice as it looks to string lights over your pool, it can be dangerous, or even lethal, if live string lights fall into a pool with a swimmer. Hang string lights thoughtfully and securely near a pool (not directly over it) to avoid any risk of them ending up in the water. 

3. Colorful Floating Lights

Add some flair to your pool with a convenient underwater light that doesn’t need to be hung up or installed at all. Intex’s floating pool light is solar-powered and charges throughout the day. By night, it rotates through five different LED colors or can be set to a steady white. Even if you forget to turn the light off, these outside pool lights automatically shut off after 2 or 5 hours, depending on whether it’s in static or color-change mode.

4. In-Ground Lights

Create long, dramatic shadows with upward-facing lights mounted directly in the deck or ground. As amazing as it looks, there are a few things to consider before installing in-ground lights around a pool. Unless you’re a skilled electrician, this one is best left to the professionals, who can connect outside pool lights to power and protect them from moisture exposure. 

Be sure to choose locations with nearby surface(s) to reflect this pool deck lighting idea, otherwise it won’t have much effect. Position your outdoor-rated  lights on a flat or higher surface off a walking path, but close enough to an outside wall, tree, or accent so you can actually see the light. 

5. Inflatable Moon Lights

Bring moonlight to the pool even on moonless nights. Each globe in Tially’s 4-pack of inflatable pool lights is printed to look like the moon and offers cool or warm light, or can cycle between the two. Hang these 14-inch moons from a pergola or nearby trees, or let them float in the pool—weighted bases keep them from turning over. Best of all, they’re solar-powered and will glow for up to 8 hours at night on a full charge.

6. Motion Sensor Lights

Outdoor pool lighting ideas don’t always have to be full of whimsy or purely decorative. On the contrary, these highly rated waterproof solar motion-sensor lights available at Amazon can add safety to a pool area within 26 feet, as well as extra security to a home, with no frills. The solar lights, which come in bundles of two or four, have three settings. They turn on and off when motion is detected, stay on all night, or can be set to smart mode, which keeps the lights on all night, but they shine brighter when sensors detect movement.

7. Up Lighting

Simple solar spotlights go a long way in highlighting plants and flowers, yard art, or structures like decks or gazebos near your water feature. The effect is even more striking when the outdoor lighting around a pool doesn’t compete with additional bright lights floating on top of it. Placing small lights below plants and angling them upward shines light through the foliage, bringing attention to particular plants or trees after dark. Switch from elegant to fun by using spotlights with extra color modes.

8. Above-Ground Pool Lights

Approximately 41 percent of pools in the U.S. are above-ground pools, and they need to be lit, too. Since these pools often lack deck space, above-ground pool lighting ideas are a bit more limited, but there are still good solutions. This 6-pack of solar pool lights from Higemz for framed above-ground pools easily strap to the sides of the structure, no drilling or draining required. The rechargeable lights are waterproof and will turn on at dusk automatically, then off at dawn.

9. Party Decoration Lights

Guests of all ages will find it hard not to smile when they see a flock of 19-inch inflatable flamingo lights brightening your pool zone. They’ll appeal to anyone’s inner child and set the party mood with their bright-pink solar light. 

Inflate these vinyl birds, let their LED lights charge in the sun, and then watch them glow pink after dark. These flamingos are a great time, especially with a slight breeze to push them around on the water—just make sure to take them out of the pool if the wind kicks up, since they may try to fly away!

10. Floating Globe Lights

Have a ball—or four—with these colorful globe lights from Rukars. Recharge the outside pool lights in the sun and they will float and glow for up to 8 hours. They don’t get boring either, changing color every 15 seconds. These colorful pool lights are fabulously festive and suit virtually all occasions, from weddings to holiday parties. 

These balls don’t necessarily have to be lights that float in the pool, however. They can also be used for poolside lighting when hung from a tree branch, wall hook, or pole. Though they may look like fragile decorations, these lights are durable enough to play with in the pool.

11. Perimeter or Path Lighting

Keep your pool deck lighting classy with minimalist pathway lights spaced 6 to 8 feet apart. Sophisticated, timeless, and practical, pool perimeter lights offer enough illumination to see without being too bright. 

Solar-powered path lights relieve homeowners of the daunting task of finding ways to hide power cords, which can create a tripping hazard. The trade-off for having cordless solar path lights is that they are often not as bright as electric path lights, so you may need to use more of them to achieve a similar effect.

12. Modern Lanterns

Pool lights aren’t just for parties; they can enhance your everyday backyard style too. Choose modern deck lighting ideas, such as lantern-shaped outdoor lamps, to add a comfortable, intimate glow to the space. 

This type of filtered glow makes for great mood lighting, lending just the right atmosphere for romance, conversations, or listening to music poolside. Just don’t go overboard with accent lights, since they can introduce too much brightness to an outdoor space. Instead, spread these outside pool lights along with string lights out over a pool’s perimeter, on deck stairs, or beside patio furniture. The best above-ground pools are surrounded by decks, the perfect spot for lanterns.

The post Pool Lighting Ideas and Tips to Illuminate Your Outdoor Space appeared first on Bob Vila.

Start with a warm color scheme.

Cream-colored cabinetry and wooden furniture are pretty common rustic kitchen features because the warmth of wood tones and cream paint bring a cozy feeling to the room. To create your own warm color scheme, choose one or two neutrals, such as cream or warm white, and then decide on the type of wood you prefer. Pine is a classic for cabins, but stained oak is another common choice. Salvaged wood in weathered gray can be a nice contrast to the right shade of cream. Finally, choose one or two accent colors. Blue and green are popular choices as cool-color accents, and you can use a collection of green canning jars, teal linens, or blue and white porcelain accents. For a classic country style, go for red-and-white-checked linens or a colorful rag rug.

Bring in texture and character with salvaged wood.

In the quest for rustic kitchen ideas, nothing delivers quite like generous layers of wood! Play up the natural look with wood floors and cabinetry, or choose tile floors and coordinating wood cabinets for easy cleanup. Salvaged wood is an eco-friendly choice that offers the benefit of rough texture to give that truly rustic look. If you prefer painted cabinets, try adding a salvaged wood panel to the kitchen island or rustic wood bar stools for an eat-in kitchen.

Add Old European flair with brick, tile, and stone.

Rustic comes in many flavors. An old-fashioned oven against a brick wall evokes images of Old European galleys. Warm pavers instead of tiles reminiscent of Spanish styles compliment arched doorways and wood beams. Tiles that are hand painted or that have a weathered look, like these Elida Ceramica Cardoso Deco Matte Porcelain Floor or Wall Tiles, add an artisanal touch to any style of kitchen. For a sense of history, stone walls or flooring transport new kitchens back in time to Old European cottages.

Revisit the farmhouse sink in new materials.

Situated under a sunny window, a farmhouse sink can become the focal point of the room. While ceramic and cast iron are the standards, you can get these sinks in other materials that bring a modern twist to the rustic kitchen. We like this Farmhouse Apron-Front Stainless Steel Single Bowl Kitchen Sink in Gunmetal Black Matte, which would blend with a darker wood and raw wood surfaces. If you want to add a touch of whimsy, check out this Vine Design Farmhouse Double Basin Copper Kitchen Sink with a 60/40 split.

Highlight the rustic textures with industrial impact.

Combining traditional rustic choices with industrial finishes creates a bold contrast. A stainless steel range hood with brushed finish, rivets, and a bit of weathering looks surprisingly at home in a wood-filled kitchen. Brutalism, the design style that incorporates raw edges, organic shapes, unpolished surfaces, sits nicely against a rustic backdrop. We like this petite Rosewood Stoneware Decorative Bowl, perfect for a rustic salt cellar, or this Stainless Steel Canister Set with a warm, weathered finish.

Turn down the shine with matte or brushed fixtures.

Polished chrome drawer pulls would look out of place in a rustic kitchen, so opt for a matte finish in black, bronze, or brass. Brushed copper fixtures would compliment a display of copper pots. Half-moon pulls or knobs with porcelain accents are common country kitchen accents. Don’t forget the faucet. Swap the builder-installed faucet and sprayer with this Kingston Brass Heritage Bridge Kitchen Faucet in copper or oil rubbed bronze for an old-school look. Many manufacturers today make hardware with a nostalgic look, but you might also consider contacting a source for architectural salvage in your area for more options and a fun treasure hunt.

Play with ceiling and backsplash materials.

A pine ceiling brings residents back to their time in a vacation log cabin. Tin ceiling tiles, like these American Tin Ceilings Rustic Copper Surface Mount Tiles, evoke a vintage vibe. If updating the ceiling isn’t in your plan, play with materials in the backsplash like copper, tin, and stainless steel. Tile backsplashes are a classic, and a stone backsplash in rustic finish, like this MSI Sparkling Autumn Ledger Natural Quartzite Wall Tile, adds just the right touch of down-to-earth style.

Blend in vintage furniture.

Rustic and country kitchens usually include some kind of vintage or antique elements. If you’re going big with a kitchen redo, consider converting a vintage dresser into lower cabinets. Or bid on that salvaged butcher block at the antique auction and use it for the kitchen island. No country kitchen is complete without a wooden table for everyone to gather around while the pie cools.

Surprise with creative or mismatched seating.

Whether pulled up to a table or parked in front of a breakfast bar, kitchen seating can either make or break the look of a rustic design. Eat-in kitchen islands offer the opportunity to show off traditional country oak stools, or you could opt for vintage milk cans converted to seating. We like these Tractor Seat Adjustable Height Bar Stools for a blend of rustic and industrial styles. At the table, bring in hallway benches or a variety of vintage wood chairs for fun family seating.

Lighten up for a country-fresh feeling.

Who says rustic has to be dark? If you love the weathered look you see in other people’s kitchens but prefer to keep things bright, go for a kitchen draped in white, from the floors to the cabinetry to the doors. Or maximize daylight by framing windows in curtains rather than covering them, or using blinds that easily open for brighter light when needed. If you don’t have windows in the kitchen, choose daylight LED bulbs in an overhead fixture or pendants along an island. Under-cabinet lighting provides a dimmable, warm glow in the evenings.

Display charming details with open shelving.

There’s no mistaking a collection of roosters on the shelf of a country kitchen, or an array of stoneware behind paned glass in a rustic cabinet. Open shelves allow for displays of tableware and kitchen accessories that add texture, color, and personality to the room. If you have the need to conceal a few items, glass-front cabinets allow you to showcase favorite china patterns or antique flour sifter collections. Color-coordinated dinnerware looks especially pleasing behind glass. 

Choose retro appliances to complete the look.

Appliance designers have stepped it up a notch in the last decade with retro and rustic designs to compliment even the most down-home of kitchens. The 36-Inch Classic Fridge by Big Chill is styled after an old-fashioned ice box with brass pull handles. Even stainless steel appliances can take on a rustic look with the right accent color, like the champagne brass knobs on this ZLINE Kitchen & Bath Autograph Edition 30-Inch Deep Recessed Convection Oven Dual Fuel Range. You can find retro appliances that add flair to a country kitchen, or opt for appliances that offer wood-look exteriors to blend with your cabinetry.

The post 12 Rustic Kitchen Ideas That Bring Your Space Back to Basics appeared first on Bob Vila.

When home decorating, the goal is to find colors and elements that you like and that support the look you want to achieve, and then give them a try. The trick comes in finding a way to try 2024 trends without making major changes that you’re not ready to live with for the long haul. From the many, many trend lists we’ve looked at this year, we’ve chosen styles and elements that run the gamut from bold to understated, and modern to traditional. Whether you’re a moody crow lover or a modern farmhouse diehard, you’ll find something in this year’s trends to up-level your look.

1. Quiet Luxury

If you’ve scrolled your feeds looking for home design ideas recently, you’ve seen #quietluxury trending. This understated approach to posh emphasizes quality and craftsmanship over flash and bling. Paring down decor, keeping clutter at a minimum, confining colors to muted neutrals, and adding quiet luxury ingredients are meant to inspire calm. The centerpiece of a quiet luxury living space is the cloud couch, a white sofa with a puffy seat and back pillows stuffed with goose down. 

“Quiet luxury is here to stay,” says Morgan Olsen, Thumbtack’s home and design expert. “Homeowners are done with loud luxury trendy pieces and are being very intentional with their spending. 2024 will be about craftsmanship over big brands and labels, as homeowners look for reclaimed materials and quality furniture.” 

That means buying pieces that last decades rather than the 3 or 4 years of mass-produced furniture. “But who said you have to get the cloud couch?” asks Olsen. Instead, find secondhand furniture by quality makers and reupholster it. Or pare down your wall art and knickknacks, then add goose-down throw pillows and a luxurious throw like this State Cashmere Striped Throw Blanket to your existing neutral sofa. 

2. Healthy Habits

Bringing wellness closer to home is no longer a luxury but an essential for many people, especially for exercise and spa experiences. “Homeowners will continue to turn their homes into wellness retreats, prioritizing features that have health benefits,” says Olsen. 

According to the 2024 Houzz U.S. Emerging Summer Trends Report, with cold plunge pool, indoor sauna, and backyard sauna all rising in search frequency in the first quarter of the year, compared with Q1 2023. At-home exercise has evolved from a stationary bicycle, with searches for bocce court, bowling alley, and game room all higher than last year. Mentions of pickleball courts on Zillow are up 64 percent over last year. People are looking for homes with private courts and nearby public courts. Pickleball in the driveway, anyone?

In addition to saunas, Amanda Pendleton, Zillow home trends expert, lists spa bathrooms and red-light therapy rooms among the features home buyers are using to complement wellness routines. While replacing a bathtub with a walk-in spa shower is a trend for remodeling projects, you can spend far less and create a spa bath at home with simple switches. Create a relaxing atmosphere by focusing on all five senses. Replace the counter clutter with a flower arrangement or basket of fluffy towels. Choose soft textures in muted colors and a comfy bath pillow, like this Luxurious Cork Bath Pillow by LIVTUUshop at Etsy. Add the soothing scent of essential oils and a source of meditative sound. Don’t forget a glass of cucumber water.

3. Hidden Spaces

Nothing beats a cozy reading nook, according to the 2024 Houzz U.S. Emerging Summer Trends Report. Searches for library walls, reading corners, and book nooks have all gone up this year. Secret spaces have long been a favorite for people who enjoy a bit of whimsy at home, along with out-of-sight storage. The Houzz Emerging Winter Trends Report, released at the end of 2023, shows that cloaked additions are gaining popularity. Searches for trapdoors are up by 350 percent, and searches for kitchens with hidden pantries rose by 250 percent. Say goodbye to the wet bar in the living room and hello to a secret speakeasy bar and lounge, or a wine bar and cellar under the stairs, both searched more often in 2023. 

If you’re not ready to tear down any walls or excavate the closet under the stairs, create nooks and hidden spaces with a few easy changes. Give more privacy to a window seat by hanging curtains outside the front of the seat rather than against the window. Hide the entrance to a closet with this Door Mural of Antique Bookshelves by Recallart at Etsy. In the kitchen, create a secret pantry by adding vertical wood panels on and around the pantry door. For renters, this Abyssaly Wood Slat Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper at Amazon is removable; homeowners who want a more permanent solution without the hassle of cutting wood can try the Set of 4 PVC Wall Paneling pieces at Wayfair that mount with adhesive.

4. Blues and Greens

Green is the most popular color this year for home design. No, wait, it’s blue. Blue is the most popular color this year for interiors. Designers differ on this one, but most agree that shades of blue and green are taking center stage in the home. Mitchell Parker, senior editor at Houzz, says blue provides a calming influence. 

Sage and gray-green also are on the rise, according to the Houzz winter report. A barely-there sage functions as a neutral on kitchen cabinets, and a darker gray-green provides contrast to warm neutrals. In true blue fashion, however, several paint companies have chosen a shade of blue as their 2024 color of the year. 

Add contrast to neutral furniture and flooring with blue or green items you already own, gathering throw pillows and blankets, table runners, vases, decorative containers, and framed prints from other rooms. Add a blue or green ribbon trim to curtains or the base of a fabric sofa without a sewing machine by using HeatnBond Hem Iron-On Adhesive at Amazon; seal the trim with a flat iron (used for hair styling) in places you can’t fit onto an ironing board. For a classic look, we like this M&J Trimming Greek Key Fabric Ribbon in denim blue and sage options.

5. The Return of Creams

While many new homes are still coated in gray from floor to ceiling, the trend is moving away from this cool palette and back to warmer colors like cream, tan, and brown. Stark white walls are too harsh for this year’s earthy color schemes. Parker says beiges, creamy off-whites, and rich browns are the focus for a warm, welcoming space. 

If you like the look of an all-neutral, off-white room, add textures and patterns, as well as a variety of tones, to create a more layered look, says Parker. The Graham Leather/Suede Lumbar Rectangular Pillow Cover and Insert at Wayfair has a removable cover to swap for a machine-washable option when needed. Swapping accessories has a big impact, especially if you clear the clutter first. We like this Handmade Wood Table Vase, an organic take on the popular ceramic styles, and the Magalia Wood Tray that brings both functionality and latticework texture.

6. Whole Wall Art

If you want an abundance of colorful expression in your home design, those cream walls act as a blank canvas perfect for art and pattern. Bold floral wallpaper or a hand-painted mural are both big this year. Zillow’s 2024 home trend report shows that many homeowners are into eclectic, maximalist interiors. Murals in homes for sale are showing up 18 percent more often than last year. The good news is you can learn how to paint a mural even if you’re not an artist, with a bit of painter’s tape and imagination.

Wallpaper also comes in mural patterns, including the peel-and-stick variety beloved by renters and frequent redecorators everywhere. Modern botanicals, landscape vistas, and stripes are trending patterns this year. Guest baths are often the place to start, since the design will make a big impact in a small space without costing a lot of time or money. Murals like this Chinoiserie Watercolor Peacock Wallpaper by FabbWallDecor, can be subtle while bringing interest to a neutral palette. Or make a big impact with this Removable Abstract Wall Art Wallpaper by ONDECORstore, both at Etsy. 

7. Handmade Touches

This year, embrace handmade pieces that show the inevitable imperfections of craft. Artisans are impacting today’s trends with handmade tiles, hand-thrown serving dishes, and hand-painted murals. Pendleton points to Murano glass chandeliers as an example of the handmade and bespoke features popping up in today’s homes. The colorful light fixtures are featured 58 percent more often in searches on Zillow, despite the sometimes hefty price tag. If this Ares Murano Glass Chandelier at $1,675 is out of budget, support an Etsy artist with this Handmade Dusty Pink Peony Pendant by FloralsBySERRO. 

Handmade items make your home unique and add a personalized touch to any room. The 2023 Houzz U.S. Bathroom Trends report showed that 62 percent of renovating homeowners are choosing a custom or semi-custom vanity. Repurpose a piece of vintage furniture and make your own vanity, or add painted details to an existing model.

8. Brutalism

Even if industrial design isn’t your style, the return of brutalism can be a welcome change in today’s homes. Brutalist design uses materials like raw concrete, brick, steel, and bronze. You’ll see organic shapes with raw edges and unpolished surfaces, as well as a streamlined design for functionality. Pendleton says Zillow has seen a 452 percent increase in the number of homes for sale that mention brutalist design.

“The return of brutalism is the most surprising rising trend of 2024, particularly after the hygge movement where homeowners embraced cozy comfort over hard surfaces,” she says. “The hallmarks of brutalist design—raw, organic, and unfinished materials—are already showing up in furnishings, lighting, and accessories. When juxtaposed with overstuffed sofas, curved armchairs, and plush high-pile rugs, brutalist architectural elements can add visual interest and much-needed contrast to a space,” says Pendleton.

9. Style That Sticks

Some trends stick around for years. Most people are hanging onto their outdoor kitchens and fire pits. Others come and go, like inflatable furniture. No one is missing that squeaky stuff. As interior design trends have bent back toward the traditional and eclectic, designers are emphasizing a focus on timeless style that doesn’t look dated from year to year. 

Parker says modern homes are showing brick, clay tiles, rustic wood, and other materials that signify a legacy rather than a fad. To get a timeless look that works for your space, create meaning through your belongings. A quality collection of original artwork from your travels will never go out of style, nor will vintage area rugs. Antiques are a good bet too because they add contrast to modern accessories. 

White bedding, pleated curtains, and anything with stripes serve as foundational textiles you can build upon as trends change. Truly timeless style is about quality and meaning, so make space in your home for what matters most.

The post A Backyard Pickleball Court and a Basement Speakeasy: 2024 Home Design Trends and How to (Realistically) Apply Them appeared first on Bob Vila.

While early bloomers are easy to spot, some plants may fail to exhibit signs of life. The trick is determining whether they’re merely late bloomers or if they quietly passed during the winter.

Snap-Scratch Method

To test whether trees and woody shrubs like forsythia and Russian sage are dead or dormant, use the snap-scratch method. Bend a branch. If it’s alive, it will bend. If it’s dead, it will snap. Since some branches can die without the entire plant dying, check a few branches.

Alternatively, scratch a small area of the bark with a knife or fingernail. Signs the tree is dying includes branches that appear brown or gray inside. Live branches are green or white inside.

Root Check

For smaller plants, especially ground covers like creeping phlox, check the roots for signs of life. Shriveled, moldy, dry, brittle, or mushy roots are a good indication that the plant is dead. Light-colored, supple roots that are fleshy and look healthy indicate dormancy.

Even if the outer layer of roots is bad, the core may still be alive. Check the primary root(s) for signs of vitality before giving up on a plant.

Signs of New Shoots

Some perennial bushes and plants, such as peonies and rhubarb, have tuberous roots that reside close to the soil surface in order to achieve the cooling required for blooming. Their foliage dies back to the ground after the first frost. Many gardeners then cut stems to the ground, but whether the old foliage remains intact or not, check the ground in the spring for signs of new shoots poking through the soil.

Budding Behavior

On some woody flowering trees and shrubs, such as apple trees, dogwood, and lilacs, buds begin forming in the fall, but these small buds stay close to the plant and feature a protective, leathery or scale-like covering through the winter. As the sap begins to flow in the spring, the buds swell noticeably – a sure sign of life and new growth.

The post Is My Plant Dead or Dormant? appeared first on Bob Vila.

The surprisingly interesting history of the original hot tub, however, goes back further than you might imagine.

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1900s–1920s: Immigration and Aviation

Let’s travel back in time to the early 20th century, when seven Italian brothers by the name of Jacuzzi emigrated to America, eventually opening a machine shop in Berkeley, Calif., in 1915. As all seven were mechanical engineers, Jacuzzi Brothers Incorporated entered the nascent aeronautics industry.

Their first success was the super-light Jacuzzi Toothpick Propeller, which graced the noses of WWI-era American military planes and was reportedly famed aviator Charles Lindbergh’s “prop of choice.” (One specimen now resides in the Smithsonian.)

The brothers then began constructing entire aircraft, including the world’s first enclosed-cabin monoplane. Named the Jacuzzi J-7, it was just about to land them a contract with the U.S. Mail when tragedy struck. During a final test run, the plane’s wings snapped off, sending the J-7 into a tailspin and ending in a fireball that killed all four occupants—including Giocondo Jacuzzi.

After the Jacuzzi patriarch forbade the brothers from further work in the aviation industry, they turned their collective attention from air to water. This pivot would produce irrigation systems, injector pumps, jet propulsion systems for boats, and assorted swimming pool supplies before making the Jacuzzi name synonymous with hydromassage.

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1940s–1950s: An Illness, An Invention

In 1943, tragedy threatened another family member, Candido Jacuzzi’s fourth son, Kenneth. At only 18 months old, the boy succumbed to a systemic infection stemming from strep throat that led to a diagnosis of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. His doctor cautioned that Kenneth might not live to see age 8, but recommended hydrotherapy to help ease the boy’s joint swelling, stiffness, and pain.

Dutifully, Inez Jacuzzi drove her son twice weekly, an hour each way, to the closest hospital with hydrotherapy facilities, but soon, the agonizing commute proved too much for Kenneth.

During one trip, however, Candido inspected the hydrotherapy unit, and discovered that it was “just pumps.” Water pumps. These, the Jacuzzis knew.

Before long, Candido had developed a portable aerating pump that could be attached to any tub, the J-300. Patented in 1952, this pump would change not only young Kenneth’s life—he lived to be 75—but the entire Jacuzzi clan’s fortunes. When commercial production began several years later, marketing emphasized the J-300’s portability and therapeutic purpose, but the Jacuzzi’s destiny as a relaxing, recreational, luxury must-have of the midcentury and beyond was already manifested.

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1960s–1970s: Queens, Celebrities, and Roy’s “Roman”

First, however, the promising pump had to become bigger and better known. It got that break in the late 1950s to early 1960s, due to an enormously popular daytime TV program, Queen for a Day. This prototypical reality competition used an “applause-o-meter” to award the most pitiable of four female down-on-their-luck contestants with full-size freezers, sewing machines, cookware, and beauty products. One of the most prominent prizes? Jacuzzi pumps to let these newly crowned queens bubble their troubles away right in their own homes.

It was a Mad Men-era marketing coup, given that Queen for a Day reached millions of daily viewers. The fact that top-tier celebrities like Jayne Mansfield, Elvis, and Marilyn Monroe all owned Jacuzzi products didn’t hurt, either.

Taking the next step toward water’s whirled domination, third-gen family member Roy Jacuzzi created “the Roman” in 1968. This self-contained unit with integrated jets replaced the J-300 with its “bring-your-own-bathtub” limitation.

Despite requiring more room, the Roman, and two even more spacious successors released in 1969 and 1970, showed the Jacuzzi’s promise—as a family activity, a health club amenity, an irresistible attraction for tired travelers, an evening’s post-fondue entertainment, an outdoor oasis, and eventually even a status symbol for swingin’ singles.

1980s–1990s: Canoodling in Champagne

As for couples? They were increasingly headed to romantic resorts in Pennsylvania’s Poconos region. These properties had flourished since the post-war marriage boom, but they got another boost thanks to the kitschy creations of one Morris B. Wilkins, owner of Caesars Cove Haven. The enterprising hotelier, who’s also credited with creating the “Honeymoon Capital of the World” moniker, had made hospitality headlines in 1963 by installing bright red, heart-shaped “sweetheart” tubs.

In the mid-80s, Wilkins debuted the 7-foot tall Champagne Whirlpool Glass-for-Two, offering lovebirds the chance to get up-close and carbonated in a colossal champagne coupe. Champagne Tower Suites featuring the singular bubbly spa baths were in such demand that canoodling couples would book stays a year in advance.

Today, heart-shaped tubs remain a popular amenity among Poconos-area hotels, and Champagne Tower Suites are still available at the three Cove Haven Resorts properties.

But, why travel to a hot tub when you could travel in one? Toward the end of the 1990s, Jacuzzis made yet another splash when they started rolling in super-long, ultra-swank limousines. Along with extras like multiple televisions, VCRs, CD players, wet bars, sunroofs, and even “cellular telephones,” these whirlpools-gone-wild helped stretch limo fees to $200-plus per hour.

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