Beautiful Flowers and Plants For The Home

Today, I’m sharing gardening tips on flowers and plants for the home.  Flowers always set the mood with their colors, texture and appearance.  So, I’m going to share a few fall flowers that will last months, some years. Additionally, if you are looking for places to find flowers, check out Calloway’s Nursery for inspiration.  

 

flower and plant ideas

 

Here are a few flowers and plants you must try:  

 

Orchid

This beautiful plant has stolen the hearts of millions of people.  It will stand the test of time if you know how to care for it. It needs moderate watering, and when its roots are bright green almost like its leaves, do not water. When they turn ash green, it’s time to water it. When all the leaves have fallen, you can cut the stalk to a height of one centimeter below the flowering stalk.  Taking this step will allow the plant to grow again.  Furthermore, it will continue to produce beautiful flowers. It does not want direct sunlight, so place it in a bright or semi-shady place. Orchids in the garden are also a great way to improve curbside appeal. 

 

Hibiscus

 

A special plant with beautiful flowers that we all love. You can find it in many sizes and colors and it is perfect in the  interior of a home.  It can withstand outside temperatures if it’s not too cold. It is very sensitive to very low temperatures. It needs moderate to frequent watering, and wants a bright and cool place to grow.

 

 

flower and plant ideas

 

 

Philodendron

It is also called a “money plant”.  The Philodendron is called the money plant because of its round, flat leaves.  Many think they look like coins.  Next, it is one of the most beloved plants in interior decoration.  Philodendron like to climb, and have leaves that are heart-shaped. You will see it standing haughtily next to a bookcase or in bulky pieces. It does not need a lot of light, but it loves moisture. 

 

Anthurium

If we could say that there are flowers with personality than anthurium would definitely be one of them. The intense green on the leaves and the red on the flower create a contrast that stands out in a room. Anthurium needs light, but should not be exposed to direct sunlight. It is highly resistant to heat and high humidity. Additionally, it does not need frequent watering. Once a week during the winter months and twice during the summer months is enough to keep it in perfect condition. All you have to do is clean the flowers with a damp cloth because dust collects on their surface.

 

Gloxinia

Do you want to illuminate your space and give it vitality and color? Gloxinia is a flower that undoubtedly catches the eye. You can place it in a pot in the house or in a planter outside and let its large leaves and colorful flowers steal the show. The gloxinia looks like a small bell with a soft velvety texture. Prefer to place it in a place with enough light, ideally near a south or west window. During the autumn and winter period when the flower is resting, you should reduce the watering a little. 

 

I hope that you select one or two of these beautiful flowers and plants for the home.  They will immediately

 

How to Make Your House a Home

It’s what you do inside your house that makes it a home.  Are you struggling to make your house a home?  Today, I’m sharing parenting tips on how to make your house a home.  It’s more than just a roof over your heads.  It’s the place you will make memories and spend time together. It should be set up for you to make the most of family life.

There are many factors to consider when making your house a home for your family.  It needs space, but home decor is important too. Perhaps the most useful skills are recognizing the potential and being able to work with what you have.  All it takes is a little imagination and some effort, but the benefits are more than worth it.

 

 

Make Your House a Home

 

 

 

Here are a few tips to make your home warm, comfortable and fun:

 

Your Property

If you’re purchasing your family home, it’s a good idea to think of what you need and what features are ‘must haves’ rather than ‘nice to have’. Property experts, like msyorkville.com, say that “there is a good chance that what you believe you are searching for and what you need will be two different things.”

Expert advice could help you bridge the gap between what you are looking for, and what is available on the market.

If you want to upgrade your property to help it fulfill its potential, it’s easiest to focus on one aspect at a time. It could be creating a new family bathroom, or extending to have more multi-purpose space that helps you achieve the lifestyle you want. This could be a study or a family music room.

 

Spaces to Get Together

If your short on a budget then it helps to narrow down your focus. One of the changes you can make that will have the most impact is looking at the places that you spend time together. Although there are places that are common with every family, it works best if you make it personal for you.

That means if you are a family that loves cooking and eating together, you should think about making some small changes to create a spacious kitchen or homey breakfast nook.  Adding an island to your kitchen, or just opening up space for more seating, could be a great way to bring you all closer together.

Alternatively, if you all come together at the end of a long day to watch TV, focus on creating a den where you can all relax.

 

making your house a home

 

Make it Fun 

Fun and laughter are said to be a key element of a family home, which certainly makes sense. There are two ways to bring fun into your family home while working on it at the same time. The first way is to make it a family project.

Turn the activities into fun things that everyone can get involved in at some level. Feeling part of it will be a nice reminder every time you see your changes, and the results will benefit everyone.

The second way to keep it fun without too many precious things. You’re an adult and a parent, so balancing the two can be hard. Create a space for nice things that are just for you, but don’t fill the house with expensive breakables if you have young kids. They will feel like they can’t run around, and you’ll get upset when things get broken.

 

It’s the Little Things

You don’t need to carry out a big DIY or renovation project to get your house feeling like a home. Some small touches can really make an impact. Accessories don’t need to be expensive to help you transform your space. Take your time over finding the right pieces to finish your room, or get crafty to create the ambience you are looking for.

Plants can be an effective way to bring life to a room.  Alternatively, take a look at your room and decide what it’s lacking.  If it needs warmth consider adding a rug or changing blinds to curtains. However, if it’s a bit gloomy add mirrors and a change of lighting could really impact how you feel in the space.

 

The Finishing Touches  

The most important part of making your house a home is planning your design and decor around family moments. If the changes you make will help you carry out activities, get together more often, and have fun with each other, then you will make your house feel like home.

Having enough space to take some quiet moments is essential. So, before you make everything open plan, consider keeping a few spots secluded so that you can have some you time or some one on one moments.

 

Unique Interior Design Features For Your Home

 

unique interior design features

 

Any parent knows keeping the interior of your home spic and span is difficult.  It’s almost impossible when you have little ones running around.  However, that hasn’t stopped the population from adding uniquedoing home improvements.  The nation spent $152 billion last year remodeling their living areas.  More and more families are installing fun and unique features to provide entertainment.  Furthermore, they’re looking for a calming ambience and much needed storage space.  So, whether you’re looking to update your property on a budget or go all out, there’s a family friendly feature that’s perfect for you.

 

Indoor water features

Indoor water features for the home are a great way of creating a tranquil and peaceful environment.  It’s a perfect way for tired kids and tantrum throwing toddlers to relax and calm down.  Another option is to install a indoor water table for your offspring to play in. Water games and activities are particularly beneficial for a child’s development and can improve their gross motor skills.  Additionally, it helps with hand and eye coordination. It’s also an effective way for youngsters to get creative and have fun.

 Interior Design tips

Unique bookcase and storage 

Lack of storage is a problem in many households.  Children usually have toys, games, books and knick knacks which all need a home.  Installing clever storage options are the perfect solution.  Chairs and seating areas can be cleverly designed to incorporate storage within them.  Storage can installed in the arms and underneath the cushion.  Alternatively, the area beneath your staircase could be converted into a bookshelf.  Everyone can quickly and easily access a book when they wish.  Unique interior design features can be created for individual homes.

 

Fun & games 

Your home is where you and your family spend time together.  So, why not make it as fun and family friendly.   A useful feature to also add is a chalkboard wall.  Grown ups will find it useful to keep shopping lists and memos.  The little ones will love creating their own designs with chalk.  If you have room, an indoor slide and or swings are another option.  The swing and slide will keep the kids busy during bad weather.

It’s important to get the interior design of your home right.  Unique interior design features like water fountains, clever bookcases, and storage units are great for families.  Additionally, fun indoor items like slides are an excellent way to bring the whole family together as well.

How to Care for Indoor Fountains

how to care for indoor fountains

 

Indoor fountains are a great addition to any home.  They are a great conversation piece during parties or gatherings.  Furthermore, they enhance the interior design of any living space.  The sound of flowing water also helps soothe the mind.  It creates an atmosphere that is more conducive to rest and relaxation.  Flowing water is even considered good luck in Eastern cultures.

There are many indoor fountain designs to choose from.  There are tabletop fountains that are ideal not just for the home, but for offices as well. Wall fountains are a nice alternative to hanging a painting on a blank wall.  Floor fountains are freestanding and look best in idle corners.

To keep an indoor fountain looking its best, you need to give it a little care.  And it doesn’t have to be complicated or costly.  Here are a few tips on how to care for an indoor fountain:

Check the structural integrity of the fountain –  Indoor fountains can be made of materials such as glass, metal, and concrete.  As a result, examine the basin and other parts for any cracks and extreme wear and tear.  Any signs of compromised integrity should be taken care of immediately.  Also, it is important to make sure that the indoor fountain is strong and sturdy.  Check hoses for blocked debris or build-up.  Chemicals such as calcium and magnesium can also contribute to blocked hoses.

Also, make sure that the fountain is installed or positioned securely.  If not placed properly, they may fall or cause injuries. Similarly, ensure that wall fountains are securely installed.  As for tabletop fountains, avoid placing them on wobbly or uneven surfaces.

Check the mechanical and electrical components – Make sure that the motor is in proper working condition.  Check electrical parts such as wires and plugs too.  The submerged motor also tends to collect moss, grime, and mineral deposits.  So, make sure that it is also cleaned periodically. When unsure have a professional carry out the cleaning or motor maintenance process.  Most importantly, always unplug the fountain before cleaning it.

Clean and sanitize the external surfaces too –  Once the electrical and motor components are working properly, the fountain exterior can be cleaned.  Drain the old water and disassemble the fountain if needed to clean hard to reach areas. Use the recommended soap or detergent to clean.  Delicate materials or surfaces like ceramic or glass should be cleaned with a mild detergent. Clean fountains made of concrete with a stronger cleaner. Dishwashing liquid and a good scrub is great for cleaning natural stone surfaces.

Indoor fountains are an investment.  Water features in a property increase its market and resale value. When homeowners flip properties and make a handsome profit, they usually enhance their homes with a water feature.

Therefore it is important to spend time maintaining your indoor water fountain.  Buying a high-quality indoor water fountain ensures that it lasts and will require little to no repairs.  However, inspecting and cleaning your indoor water fountain every month can guarantee years of enjoyment.

How to Shop for Curtains and Drapes

 

how to shop for curtains and drapes

 

One of the biggest things that can influence the look and feel of a room is the homeowner’s choice of drapes or curtains.  However, unless you’re an interior decorator by profession or have the services of one on speed dial, it can be very difficult to pick the perfect set for a room.

But don’t despair.  Choosing the perfect draperies is not impossible.  Knowing how to shop for curtains and drapes really isn’t difficult.  Here are a few tips on how to shop for curtains and drapes for your home.

Drapes or curtains?

A lot of people often advertise drapes and curtains as the same product. Although they may look similar and perform the same functions, drapes and curtains are actually considered different.

Curtains, for example, usually refer to lightweight window treatments.  The material is often sheer, which makes them perfect for framing or accentuating a window.  Furthermore, black out drapes, blinds, or shades fall into the curtain category as well.  Drapes, on the other hand, typically refer to products that are made out of stiffer and heavier materials.  They are usually lined on the inside and are great for blocking out light.  Additionally, the work well making an open-window room totally and completely private.

Another how to shop for curtains and drapes tip is the length. Curtains are usually cut short enough that they barely touch the floor.  They give the room a light and airy presence.  However, drapes are often tailored so they can puddle on the floor.  This is perfect if you want the room to feel more formal or grand.

So, before you start shuffling through color and pattern swatches, first decide whether the room decorating needs. Than consider whether you want curtains or drapes.

To match or to make a statement?

Another one of our how to shop for curtains and drapes tips is to think about the color and pattern of the fabric.  Curtains and drapes make a visual statement.  This means they can definitely influence the look and feel of a particular room.  So, the color or pattern that you pick for your curtain or drapes is essential.

Therefore, you have to decide what you want your curtains or drapes to do. Is the primary idea for them to match your currently-existing décor, or do you want them to pop out and make a statement?

If you want the draperies to make a visual statement, bring natural-light photographs of your room or décor.  As a result, you can more accurately pick the color that will match and compliment your room.  Be sure to take sample swatches of colors that you like home.  This gives you an opportunity to see the colors in your light

If you want your curtains or draperies to pop, then feel free to go as elaborate or ornate with the color or pattern.  Just make sure that the color doesn’t clash too much with the rest of your decor. You can prevent this by at least buying a pattern or color that fits the room’s theme. Even a potentially clashing color can surprise you if it matches the theme of the room.

However, if you just want a new set of curtains and don’t want them to be the main focus of the room choose a set in neutral colors.  This allows the curtains or drapes to gently blend into the room’s décor.  Furthermore, such colors can range from stark white to softer cream, beige, or a lighter shade of gray.

Fabric matters

Once you decided on the window treatment and the pattern or color, consider what material you want.  Additionally, your fabric choice should not only dictate how great your window treatments look , but how durable they are.

If you’re looking to maximize the look factor of your curtains, many designers agree that silk, faux silk, linen, and velvet make great choices. They will hang in luxurious and elegant ripples.

If your goal is to keep out cold weather or just blocking outside light and sound, then consider heavier materials.  Suede, velvet, tapestry, and tweed should be at the top of your list.

As for durability, organic silk has a tendency to degrade when constantly exposed to the sun.  So, don’t expect your silk curtains to last for too long if you don’t take care of them.  Additionally, you can counter this effect by using a liner or by choosing faux silk instead.  Faux silk is more durable than real silk.

Keeping the tips listed above foremost in your mind should help you get a much better idea of what you actually want and need.  Finally, make sure to research the products or materials you are considering.  Most importantly, buy only from trusted suppliers.

Easy Interior Update Ideas For Your Home

 

Interior Update Ideas

A dated interior can drag down your property value.  Furthermore, it can make your home less than enjoyable.  Unfortunately, not everyone has the funds to do a full remodel.  If you need to make some changes on a tight budget, then you’ll want to get a little creative with your solutions.  Here are a few nifty interior update ideas for your home that won’t break the bank.

Quick Fixes for Old Sheetrock

Cracked walls are a hassle, and repairing them can be both messy and expensive.  However, if you know that the damage is just cosmetic cover it over with fabric.  Furthermore, lightweight fabric that has been dipped in liquid starch will cling neatly to your wall.  Begin by removing the baseboards first so that you can run the fabric behind them.  Next, put some crown molding or a basic trim around the ceiling to help secure it. The luxurious finish will float right over most imperfections so that you can have a new look without worrying about the cracks.

Enclosed Radiators

If you have radiators in your home, then turn them into useful storage space.  By using some wood and painted pierced-metal panels, you can enclose them. The enclosures can be built to slide in and out of position for servicing the appliance. You’ll add a little valuable storage space to the room too.  You’ll also prevent little ones from hurting themselves on the radiator.

Colored Stain

If you have quality wood furniture that has a tired finish, then it’s time to update it with some fresh colors. You can make plain wood furniture look great by refinishing it with a black, white, or even red stain.  Some of the wood grain will still shine through, but you’ll have an updated piece that’s sure to look amazing.

Floor to Ceiling

Make your windows look bigger by stretching out your window treatments.  Hang the rod one to two feet above the window frame to make it look more impressive. You can also stretch out the sides and visually expand a small window by covering more of the wall on either side of the window. In addition, you can instantly transform a room and make it feel more luxurious by replacing the color of your lighting.

New Hardware

Other interior update ideas is your home’s hardware.  Update the look of almost any space with new hardware. Simply adding new pulls and handles can make your kitchen feel more current.  In the bathroom, look for new towel racks.  Also, consider replacing the doorknobs throughout your home to finish the upgrade.

Kitchen Gallery

Turn the kitchen into an art gallery by hanging some pieces above the cabinets or on open walls. It’s a great way to add color to the space and make it more visually appealing.  If you have vaulted ceilings in the kitchen, then you can use crown molding in areas to create a nice little shelf for the artwork.

With a little creativity, you can update your home without spending a small fortune with our interior update ideas. The little details can make a huge difference in how your property looks and feels. When you’re working with a tight budget, these clever ideas may be the answers you’ve been looking for.

Author bio: Jeff E. Brown is a freelance writer and a self-taught handy man with a knack for lifehacking and DIY projects. Based out of his home office where his two dogs keep him company while he types, Jeff loves writing about home improvement topics, teaching others all the tips and tricks he has learned since he moved out of an apartment and into a house. When he’s not writing, he loves organizing barbecue parties in his garden. You can contact Jeff via his landing page.

 

15 Morning Habits to Make Coming Home Even Better

If you’re a working mom, your home can become a pretty complex place. Home is where you make memories with your family, and where you keep them safe.  It’s also where you relax and build your life with your husband or significant other. We all know that busy schedules can disrupt domestic harmony.  So, today we’re sharing tips on chores that you can perform in the morning.  Getting organized can put you on the path to empowering yourself and making coming home a pleasure.

 

 

house cleaning tips, kids chores

 

 

 You may prefer to leave cleaning and other jobs for the weekend. However, there are a few simple steps you can take on a daily basis to tweak your home.  For example, opening the curtains in the living room will fill the room with light and air.  Plumping up sofa cushions will make the room far more enticing.   Also, add flowers and/or a fragrance diffuser in the entry way.  Beauty and a fresh scent when you enter your home.  It’s a great way to unwind and have a positive attitude when you’re greeted by the children and your husband.
Another step is to make your kid’s beds in the morning or encourage your child to make their bed if they are old enough.  It will make their rooms feel tidy, and more appealing when bedtime arrives.  Don’t neglect your own bed either.  There’s nothing more comforting than the sight of a made bed and a fresh pair of pajamas.  Get in the habit of fluffing the pillows and decluttering before going to bed, and making beds in the morning.  You will find that it only takes a few minutes to perform these tasks.
If this already feels achievable, be sure to check out this new infographic which explores a handful of other tips for reviving your love affair with your home – without the burden of extra work.

15 Morning Habits to Make Coming Back Home Even Better

 

 

Make Your Home’s Exterior Perfect for Summer

 

home improvement ideas, curb appeal, exterior home improvement

 

For the most part, summer is the time when guests come over to the house for barbecues and holiday events. You want the exterior of the home looking as immaculate as possible. Not only does it fill you with a sense of pride, but it can also make visitors feel more welcome. Some things can even be beneficial to protect the property at the same time. Here are a few of the things I do to get the house ready for the hottest months of the year.

Caring for the Roof and Gutters

Keeping debris off your roof and gutters helps protect your property as well as deliver a nice appearance. This could be especially important for those launching fireworks nearby during special occasions. All it takes is the smallest spark to ruin an otherwise pleasant gathering. It’s not uncommon for the contents within a gutter to ignite due to an aerial firework. Keeping the roof and gutters clean is a relatively easy process.  If you’re not sure how to proceed, it may be wise to contact a professional to assist. Here are a few practical reasons why you would want to care for the roof and gutters this summer:

  • Protects the roof during summer storms
  • Helps keep water away from the foundation
  • Gives the home a fresh appearance from the road
  • Prepares the home for the fall and winter months

Exquisite Exterior Walls

A lot of homes just need a simple scrub down to enhance the appearance. Using a simple towel and a bucket of soapy water, you can spend some time washing dirt and grime off the exterior walls. You may want to refrain from using a pressure hose, though. Too much pressure could result in cracking or breaking parts of your siding. In some cases, a fresh coat of paint could make all the difference for exterior walls. Not only will this give your house a fresh new look, but it can also protect the siding from UV damage. This is important because exposure to sunlight will eventually break down the materials in siding over time.

Patio Projects

Sprucing up the patio will offer an elegant appearance. In essence, the patio is like any other room in the house. It needs the same kind of care and attention if you want to keep it looking nice and functional. After all, you might be spending a great deal of time in this area and you want to be comfortable. Here are a few things I do to enhance this area of the home:

  • Re-stain or re-apply waterproofing to the wood to give it an amazing appeal
  • Add a coat of paint to the trim to enhance the aesthetics
  • Re-arrange the furniture to offer a unique experience for yourself
  • Clean the grill with a brush and non-toxic solvents to give it a like-new finish

Driveway Adjustments

The driveway is one of those areas that a lot of people forget about. However, it’s also one of the most apparent visuals when arriving at the property. If there are cracks or holes, patching these up could greatly enhance the visage of the homestead. Most cement mixtures are inexpensive and can be picked up at your local hardware store. Simply add the right amount of water and you’ve created filler for the driveway. In more extreme cases, it may not be a bad idea to call in a professional. Using the wrong kind of concrete could be detrimental to fixing the driveway. Once the material sets, it will be that much harder to go back and fix a mistake.

Accentuating the Yard

The yard is one of the most obvious areas for creating the perfect visual during the summer. It’s one of those exterior areas that catches the eyes of everyone, and it will greatly impact curb appeal. The biggest investment you might have for enhancing the lawn is time. Easy modifications include:

  • Mowing the grass and keeping edges trimmed
  • Planting flowers in gardens or in pots near the doorways
  • Installing a rock garden with a tree coming out of the center
  • Installing solar-charged lighting along pathways
  • Adding accent lighting to areas of interest such as the garden or object on the property
  • Installing a small water fountain or waterfall to give the property more of a “living” feel

While many of these can be done on your own, some of the more advanced projects may require help. For example, you may need extensive electrical experience if you want to add elegant accent lighting. These are only a handful of things you can do yourself to make the home’s exterior as perfect as possible. Not only will these modifications turn a few heads in the neighborhood, they can also allow you to feel good about your property. Enhance your summer by giving yourself and guests a superb location to relax. Most of these additions take little effort and don’t require a large investment of money.

Jeff E. Brown Photo

 

About the Author: Jeff E. Brown is a freelance writer and a self-taught handy man with a knack for lifehacking and DIY projects. Based out of his home office where his two dogs keep him company while he types, Jeff loves writing about home improvement topics, teaching others all the tips and tricks he has learned since he moved out of an apartment and into a house. When he’s not writing, he loves organizing barbecue parties in his garden. You can contact Jeff via his landing page.

How to Recycle a Fall Wreath

fall decorating, how to recycle a wreath

I love decorating for the seasons and holidays, if no more than a wreath on the front door and a garden flag welcoming friends and family at the sidewalk entrance.  I moved the wreath on my front door to my kitchen this summer, so I needed a replacement.  I browsed Ebay and Michael’s, but I simply could not fork over $75 – $80 for a wreath. Not when I know they had about $10.00 worth of material and maybe an hour of time invested in the product.  Problem solved, I decided to recycle a fall wreath that I had stored.  It had seen betters days as far as the materials, but the wreath was in excellent shape.  I like large wreaths on my front door, so the size was perfect.  
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