6 kitchen and bath upgrades that are 'the whole package'

(BPT) - Let’s face it — once you get past high school, the people who go farthest in life are the ones who are the “whole package,” those who balance style, good looks and brains. The same can be said of kitchen and bath upgrades. The ones that will stand the test of time — the ones you’ll love as much in five years as you do the day they’re installed — are the improvements that blend style and intelligence.

Sure you might fall in love with that $5,000 built-in coffee maker, but are you going to adore it as much when you’re still paying for it five years from now? And when you sell your home one day, will buyers agree with you that it was worth giving up an entire walk-in closet to get five more square feet in the master bathroom?

Great bathrooms and kitchens really do sell homes, so it makes sense to invest in upgrades that are the whole package. They look great, are stylish, functional and enjoyable, and will give you a decent return on your investment when it comes time to sell.

Here are six kitchen and bathroom improvements that really are the total package:

1. Granite countertops
Countertops are both a major design feature and a vital necessity in both kitchens and baths. New, quality countertops improve the appearance and function of either room. Of course, granite is still a top choice for kitchen counters but it also goes well in the bathroom, giving vanities a high-end look. A USA Today study found more than half of buyers said they would pay more for a home with granite countertops.

2. Skylights
Whether in a kitchen or bathroom, adding solar-powered, fresh-air skylights will brighten the space with abundant daylight and freshen the air with natural ventilation that exhausts heat, humidity and odors. In baths, they also provide privacy. Energy Star-qualified no leak skylights like those from VELUX America can be operated by a touchpad programmable remote control, as can solar powered blinds in an array of designer colors and patterns, and are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit for the skylights, blinds and the cost of installation. Sun Tunnel tubular skylights make it possible to add natural light even in first-floor kitchens or bathrooms where there is no direct roof access.

3. Quality lighting
Lighting is both a practical and design consideration for kitchens and bathrooms. In addition to natural light sources, such as skylights and windows, it’s a good investment to install upgraded light fixtures. You should have multiple layers of light, including overhead for both rooms, task lighting or under-the-cabinet lighting in kitchens, and vanity lighting in the bathroom. Your design options are vast, and upgrading your lighting can be both a design statement and an improvement that enhances livability.

4. Eco-friendly fixtures and appliances
Of course you know new appliances and fixtures can make kitchens and baths look more appealing to buyers, and more enjoyable for you while you live in your home. But their value will be even greater if you choose options that can also help reduce your water, sewer and utility bills. From low-flow showerheads and ultra-high-efficiency toilets, to Energy Star-qualified dishwashers and refrigerators, eco-friendly fixtures and appliances are great design choices that will put money back in your pocket for years to come.

5. Tile
Tile is a big win for both kitchens and baths. Replacing worn or dated tile in showers or bathroom floors improves the look and function of the room. In kitchens, adding a tile backsplash is an affordable way to make a design statement while protecting walls from cooking spatters. Tile can also serve as a countertop material in kitchens and baths, where design flexibility and durability are essential.

6. Organization and storage solutions
From dishes, pots, pans and foodstuff in the kitchen, to towels and personal care items in the bathroom, you probably have a lot of stuff that needs to be stored in both rooms. So will future buyers! Adding cabinet and drawer organizers, as well as extra storage solutions, can make it easier for you to use both rooms. Plus, it will help reduce clutter, giving your kitchen and bath a more open, clean look.

You don’t need a huge budget to make kitchen and bathroom upgrades that really are the whole package. Even a minor renovation in either room can have a big impact on your home’s livability, beauty and resale value. For more tips on upgrades that are the whole package, contact the staff at Interior Surfaces. Give us a call at 614.761.7856 to make an appointment to meet with us at 4353 H Tuller Road, Dublin, OH 43017.

The 2016 kitchen design trends are on track to become timeless

(BPT) - Some kitchen design trends fade as quickly as they come in — tile countertops, naked windows or avocado-hued appliances may come to mind. Other trends, however, are so deeply rooted in good design that they’re destined to become timeless style statements — and enhance your kitchen with a look you’ll love as much in a decade as you do the first moment you see it.

Those are the trends homeowners should watch for in 2016 and incorporate into their kitchen upgrade plans, says stylist and designer Emily Henderson, season five winner of HGTV’s “Design Star.” Given nearly nine in 10 homeowners plan to renovate their homes in the near future with half of them planning to do so within the next year, according to a survey by LG Electronics, being armed with the right information will help make those renovations a success.

“Timeless design has an enduring aesthetic that seamlessly complements a range of infinite kitchen styles and colors,” Henderson notes. “They create looks and enhance functionality in ways that will pay off for homeowners for years to come.”

Henderson points to three design trends to watch in 2016:

Open it up

Areas that seem small or cramped have never been a staple in homes. Look for design enhancements that create a more open atmosphere, like open shelving or glass-front cabinets, which appear contemporary, sleek and functional. Open storage encourages organization, cuts clutter and eliminates chaos since the contents are always on display. They also provide a great way for homeowners to display their pretty dishware, Henderson notes.

Let your personality shine

Modern designs and the sheer number of home décor products make it easier than ever to personalize virtually any design theme. You can add a dash of your personality to your kitchen decor in many ways. Use decorative accents on counters and focus on underscoring a theme you love in the rest of the house, for instance. A lived-in look with touches of style adds life to the space. “I love vintage salt and pepper shakers, brass or wooden utensils, glass canisters, wooden bowls, enamel pots and even vintage cookbooks,” Henderson says. “You can find so many ways to add personal flair to a design, and it’s a sensibility that will never go out of style.”

Contrast is good

Some combinations will always be on trend, and Henderson predicts more of them will be showing up in kitchen design in 2016. “Black and white, metallics like brass, gold or copper paired with natural and wooden touches — these combos will never tire,” she says. “They can be used alone or in combination with other elements. You really can’t go wrong with any of them.”

For more kitchen design inspiration contact the staff at Interior Surfaces. Give us a call at 614.761.7856 to make an appointment to meet with us at 4353 H Tuller Road, Dublin, OH 43017.

Six style tips to prepare your home for the holiday season

(BPT) - Bored with the whirlwind of red and green decor that inundates every home during the holiday season? This year, more homeowners are thinking beyond the traditional when decorating for winter celebrations. Expert insight into the year’s top decor trends can help anyone create impressive, elegant holiday style with minimal effort.

“Red and green will always be classic, but when it comes to holiday decor, rules are meant to be broken,” says Kirsty Froelich, design director for The Tile Shop. “Anyone can use inventive color schemes, fun patterns and smart home updates to create spaces that embrace the essence of the season.”

Froelich notes six top trends to keep in mind when decorating for the holiday season:

1. Feel festive with florals
An easy first step to bring your home into the holiday season is to add festive fresh or dry floral arrangements. Evergreens and poinsettias always convey the essence of the season, but blooms in hues of rich purple, crisp white and even funky fuchsia will add cheerful energy to any room. A small floral arrangement on a bathroom vanity, for example, adds warmth and color — a particularly nice touch if you’re hosting guests.

2. Beautify with backsplashes
Tiling your backsplash is an easy update that instantly upgrades a kitchen or bar space, and serves as a great conversation starter for guests. A backsplash also can be a relatively inexpensive project with a stunning impact.

3. Be merry with metallics
To create a show-stopping visual effect, use metallics in details throughout your home. Chrome and nickel are hot, and there’s a current resurgence of brass and gold. If you have metal in your backsplash tiles, add a centerpiece in the same metal to tie the entire room together. Keep in mind that less is more. Thoughtful touches of holiday decor will have bigger visual impact than an overload of figurines and frills.

4. Get jolly with geometric patterns
From gift wrap to seasonal fabric, geometric patterns are on trend for the upcoming holiday. A gorgeous geometric tablecloth is the ideal backdrop for a big family feast. Geometric mosaic backsplashes leave a lasting impression during the holiday season and into the new year. Finally, geometric wrapping paper in vivid colors like teal or chartreuse, make for an extra stylish tree.

5. Wow with window treatments
Don’t overlook the potential of your windows when adding holiday pizzazz to your home. By using fabrics that feature a festive theme or pattern, you can easily create temporary window treatments that bring a space together. Simply visit your local craft store, pick out a bolt of two of fabric that blends with your holiday aesthetic, and have the appropriate lengths cut. Then simply drape and enjoy.

6. Give your fireplace a facelift
A fireplace is the quintessential gathering spot for friends and family during holiday celebrations. A sleek stone makeover will update any drab or dated fireplace into a stylish focal point in your home. Add extra ambiance with candles, flowers and other simple decor on the mantel to make the space feel special.

“There’s no better time to let your home shine than the holidays,” says Froelich. “Adding holiday greenery, a few metallic touches and whimsical window updates will make your home feel festive. Now’s the perfect time to get that tile project done that’s been on the back burner, so you can show off your hard work and the amazing new space to all visitors.”

For more home design inspiration as you prep for this holiday season contact the staff at Interior Surfaces. Give us a call at 614.761.7856 to make an appointment to meet with us at 4353 H Tuller Road, Dublin, OH 43017.

Floor your house guests with creative design twists

(BPT) - Hardwood flooring brings enduring beauty, charm and value to a home. Not content to keep a good thing underfoot, inspired homeowners are now finding new and creative locations to use it for a dramatic effect.

Using hardwood flooring on walls and ceilings is becoming an increasingly prominent trend. The rationale goes beyond aesthetic. While the wide variety of colors and finishes do provide myriad design options, hardwood flooring is also very durable and easy to maintain.

Here are just a few of the many considerations for creatively using hardwood flooring:

1. Deck the walls.

Just like floors, there are a multitude of colors, patterns and finishes that can be installed on walls. After choosing the hardwood to match your decor, design a layout for how high you want it to go and how you want the planks positioned. Choose a horizontal layout for a traditional look, or go with a vertical or diagonal layout for a more distinctive statement. It’s important to decide this in advance to avoid wasting materials.

2. Ceilings to look up to.

If you want your ceiling to take center stage, it’s best to keep the floor neutral and muted. For cohesion, use the same tone on both the ceiling and floor. In an all-white room, try a wooden ceiling with a matte finish for a complementary look.

3. Make more of less.

Hardwood flooring accents can help you make the most of a smaller space. In the bedroom, place hardwood flooring around and above your bed to create a headboard. This creates a familiar look and ties a room together without taking up extra space. Another idea is to use hardwood flooring to create an accent wall. This makes the room feel larger by focusing attention to one wall.

4. Choose the right flooring.

It is important to choose the right hardwood flooring for specific applications. Lighter-weight products – usually 5/16-inch to 1/2-inch thick – are easier to install and keep in place over time. Flooring types and textures such as acacia or handscraped styles add a distinctive character to rooms. The team at Interior Surfaces can help you choose the right flooring.

Creative options still abound if you’re a homeowner who literally remains grounded with their flooring. When deciding how to decorate an expansive room, for example, different colors or species of hardwood can be used to section off separate areas – especially in open spaces commonly found in loft style and other contemporary construction.

Imagination is ultimately the only limit for homeowners and the staff at Interior Surfaces are here to help! Give us a call at 614.761.7856 to make an appointment to meet with us at 4353 H Tuller Road, Dublin, OH 43017.

Dress up your Floors with Top Tile Trends

(BPT) - If you are renovating any area of your home, it may be time to try something new—such as bringing tile into main living areas in addition to your bathrooms and kitchen. New designs, styles and technologies are making tile the most versatile and accessible flooring material.

“Tile has always been durable and easy to maintain,” says Kevin McDaniel, director of product development and design services for a leading tile retailer. “Tile has a long life span and classic good looks, making it a favorite flooring of choice wherever homeowners need a floor material that’s both practical and beautiful. Even more design options are available now, making tile a smart floor surface in virtually any room of the home.”
Homeowners, builders, designers and product developers are thinking outside the box when incorporating tile into renovations and new builds. From bringing tile flooring up the wall, to using the same tile flooring across multiple rooms, they’re working with tile in non-traditional ways. Here are some top tile trends to consider for your interior design project:

1. The look of real wood with a rustic finish. Many of the larger-format faux wood tiles mimic the look of real hardwood floors. Less expensive and more durable than real wood, these tile floors are practical yet beautiful choices for active households with children and pets. Details evoke the character of real wood, right down to the nails. “Rustic faux wood is making a huge splash because of its warm, earthy coloring and unusual time-worn finishes such as aged paint, a finish hard to achieve with real wood. I foresee it continuing to be a very popular design trend,” McDaniel says.

2. Those longer tile planks. While standard square tile sizes will always have their place in home décor, rectangular tiles – otherwise known as planks — are gaining popularity. New 12-by-24-inch tiles are a hot choice in bathrooms and 6-by-36-inch tiles or 8-inch by 8-feet planks (often in wood-grained looks) are a favorite for living areas.
“Using longer planks can help smaller spaces look larger, and create an appealing consistency across multiple rooms,” says McDaniel. “While consumers may be familiar with traditional tile shapes such as square or hexagon, these longer tiles offer exciting new design flexibility.”

3. That poured concrete look. While concrete is a trendy design material right now, it’s not practical for every household or application. New tile styles create the look of poured or stained concrete at a fraction of the cost, and with all the durability, versatility and ease associated with tile. Tile options range from long rectangular 8-by-18-inch or 12-by-24-inch planks to 18-by-18-inch squares. Tiles are rectified—the edge is cut completely straight—and grout joints are very narrow to further create the look of seamless concrete.

4. The warmth of heated floors. While heated floors were once a luxury option for homeowners, they’re becoming increasingly mainstream. Tile lends itself to radiant heat beneath the floor. You can find a full line of accessories, including thermostats, which can control the heat in any floor in your home. This includes both the shower floor and shower benches.

5. Unconventional grout and tile design ideas. Using a high-contrast grout color can make the floor pop, and it’s a tactic that works well with mosaic designs. Choosing the right grout color is just as important as the tile you select. Also popular is the concept of mosaic designs that mimic an area rug within a larger section of tile flooring and create the look of custom art within the floor.


Shopping for tile designs and inspiration is easy with help from the staff at Interior Surfaces. Give us a call at 614.761.7856 to make an appointment to meet with us at 4353 H Tuller Road, Dublin, OH 43017.

Hot master bath trends for 2015 and beyond

(BPT) - When it comes to renovating spaces in your home, the master bath should be top of mind. Leading master bath trends for 2015 go beyond functionality to incorporate features that complement the design aesthetic and provide a touch of luxury for lasting results.

By understanding top trends and incorporating them into your remodel, you can instantly increase your home’s comfort, style and value. Renovated master baths are not only in demand, but bathroom remodels also provide one of the highest rates of return on investment. A midrange bathroom remodel recoups 72.5 percent during resale, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2014 Cost vs. Value report.

Here are the hottest trends in master bath renovations for 2015:

Zen-like designs meet a contemporary aesthetic
Homeowners want modern designs with uninterrupted sight lines, but they don’t want their bathroom to feel cold or calculated. Master baths are becoming spa-like retreats with upgrades that help homeowners look and feel their best. The inclusion of modern technology, like programmable water features and smart televisions, is offset by designing with organic textures, like bamboo, cotton and marble for a Zen-like feel.

Subway tiles reign king
The master bath is the perfect place to incorporate tile work – it’s durable, beautiful and water resistant. Despite the availability of thousands of tile designs, one classic option is trending: subway tile. These aren’t grandma’s bland rectangle tiles. Modern subway tiles are available in a wide array of colors to add a splash of personality to master bathrooms. A few popular subway tile colors include slate gray, cobalt blue and winter white. Tile experts mix tiles of different colors to create truly timeless, one-of-a-kind designs.

Radiant heated floors increase comfort
Cold toes are the last thing you want when enjoying your master bath, which is why radiant flooring is considered a must-have for 2015. Heated flooring is trending particularly in areas where the temperature drops during the evening or the winter is lengthy. Electric radiant heat is typically installed under tile flooring and is regulated with a temperature gauge – an effective way to add luxurious warmth to the entire master bath suite.

Spa-like showers create a personal oasis
More than just a place to get clean, homeowners are using the master bath shower as a place where they can escape the stresses of daily life and enjoy personal time. In order to create this oasis, designers are incorporating a variety of upscale features into showers. From steam showers, designed to open pores, to multiple shower heads that provide mist from every angle, the shower is more customized than ever before.

Modern metallics add visual interest
Metals used in the bathroom add visual interest and style. While stainless steel is a safe choice, higher-end bathrooms frequently feature metals that convey interesting colors and textures, such as oil-rubbed bronze and brushed nickel. Brass tones are making a comeback in unusual hues like warm-colored copper, and these options add richness to the overall bathroom design.

Big and bold light fixtures create personality
Homeowners are setting all subtleties aside when selecting master bath light fixtures. Unexpected lighting will be a statement piece for the master bath in 2015. From glamorous crystal chandeliers to clusters of hand-blown glass globes or drum pendants made with laser-cut metal, light fixtures are the finishing touch that redefines a master bath’s personality and functionality.

For more information about designing your dream bathroom call Interior Surfaces at 614.761.7856 and make an appointment to meet with us at 4353 H Tuller Road, Dublin, OH 43017.

Choosing the hardwood floor that's right for you

(BPT) - After kids go back to school, homeowners finally have time to complete remodeling projects. This makes autumn a popular time for home improvements. In fact, home improvement activity is expected to peak in the final three months of 2014, according to the Leading Indicator of Remodeling Activity developed by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University.

Installing hardwood flooring is one of the most popular renovation projects. Homeowners desire hardwood floors for many reasons. They’re durable and can withstand the wear and tear of playful kids and pets. They retain a classic, natural look and feel, adding to a home’s elegance. Plus, hardwood floors are simple to clean and maintain.

Since a floor is a key design element, it’s important to make sure the right one is selected based on its location and the homeowner’s lifestyle and personal preference. With the wide variety of flooring types, choosing the right floor for a space can be overwhelming. These key tips will help homeowners find and install the perfect hardwood floor.

Location, location, location

Where the flooring will be installed is an important consideration to ensure the floor will retain its beauty for generations. If on or above ground level, there are a wide variety of options available, from solid hardwood to bamboo varieties. For below-ground-level installations, such as basements, it’s important to choose a flooring type – such as engineered hardwood – that can withstand moisture.

Suit your lifestyle

If the hardwood floor will be in a well-traveled part of a home, or serve as ground zero for active kids and pets, it’s best to choose a wood variety that is at least as hard as red oak, as this is the industry benchmark for comparing the relative hardness of wood species. Viewing how floors compare on this scale and considering lifestyle attributes will help determine the flooring that’s right for a room. In addition, there are other flooring varieties to consider such as cork, laminate and vinyl for those who want the most durable hardwood alternative.

Color your home with style

Various hardwood floor hues and finishes can complete the look of a room or set the foundation for a room’s design, so it’s important to base color and species on personal preference. Somerset Hardwood Flooring, for example, is a premier line of hardwood flooring that offers a range of colors and finishes.

For help choosing the hardwood floor that's right for you, call InteriorSurfaces at 614.761.7856 and make an appointment to meet with any of our staff at 4353 H Tuller Road, Dublin, OH 43017.

Keep them home, happy and studying: Creating a kid-friendly space

(BPT) - Would a great study space ease your child’s transition from summer to school? Perhaps an awesome lounge area could convince your teens – and all their friends – that your house is the best hangout spot ever. Whatever your objectives, a few design and decorating tricks can help you create a kid-friendly space in your home.

The basics of good design that make grown-up spaces appealing also work for children’s spaces. When designing a kid-friendly room, however, it’s important to keep in mind not only the purpose of the room (study, fun, sleep, etc.) but the age of the occupant, his or her interests as well as incorporating fun into the design. Here are some tips to get you started:

Consider creating a theme. Kids of all ages love themes. To decide which one might be right for your project, consider things your child has shown an enduring interest in. For example, she may be into princesses right now and hate the theme next year. On the other hand, if she’s always loved the color pink and has a passion for animals, those elements could be worked into a theme that she’ll appreciate for years to come.

Choose flooring that fulfills multiple needs. Carpeting absorbs sound (for when kids play loud video games or music) and is comfortable for youngsters who like to sit or lie on the floor while they do homework, read, watch TV or socialize. What’s more, it’s available in virtually every hue and pattern imaginable, ensuring you’ll find something that appeals to both your design sense and your child’s tastes. Stain-resistant formulas and durable fibers ensure modern carpeting can stand up to the rigors of use in a child’s room. And, according to the Carpet & Rug Institute, properly cleaned carpet can maintain indoor air quality, making it a viable choice for families impacted by asthma and allergies.

A child’s space needs layers of lighting, just as adult spaces do. As you’re choosing lighting, keep in mind how your child will use the room. If he will be doing homework, task lighting and desk lights will illuminate study areas. Will the room be a movie room or a “hangout” for older teens? Recessed and dimmable lighting may be appropriate. Don’t forget to include natural light in your illumination plans. Avoid heavy drapery. Instead, opt for bright colors and lightweight materials for window treatments so windows admit ample light. If you have a larger budget, consider adding a skylight to provide light while preserving privacy.

Organization is key in a child’s room, and ample storage facilitates good organization. Depending on the size of the room and how it will be used, shelving, portable cubes, book cases and other furnishings can provide plenty of storage space. For desks, look for desktop organizers that will keep important papers and supplies tidy and close at hand. By helping kids stay organized now, you’ll be laying the foundation for a lifetime of good organizational skills.

Remember the fun factor. Whatever the purpose of a child’s room, fun should be a universal ingredient. You can infuse fun in a room in many ways, from creating a video game center for lounge rooms to choosing colorful, texturally appealing carpeting for a bedroom. A touch of whimsy, such as a swing hung from the ceiling or a wall mural of your child’s favorite cartoon character, can produce smiles every time kids see them.

With some creativity and the right materials, it’s possible to create a space that will make children comfortable, happy and ready to tackle the new school year. Your first step should be to call InteriorSurfaces at 614.761.7856 to make an appointment to meet with any of our staff at 4353 H Tuller Road, Dublin, OH 43017.

Selling this fall?

Six upgrades to secure a speedy sale (BPT) -

 If you’ll be putting your home on the market this year, simple, cost-effective upgrades can help ensure a speedy sale at a good price.

“In the world of real estate, it’s often necessary for sellers to spend a little on upgrades in order to achieve a satisfying home sale,” says Bethany Richmond, communications director for the Carpet & Rug Institute. “Fortunately, some of the most impressive upgrades, such as new carpeting, are also affordable. Such upgrades ensure that you don’t have to spend a lot to achieve a better selling price.”

Here are six easy-to-do upgrades that are both cost-effective and high-impact:

1. Replace carpet
 It’s easy to see the impact of worn or dated carpeting. “If you don’t like looking at it, buyers won’t either,” Richmond says. “Replacing old or damaged carpet delivers impressive appeal for a modest investment.” New carpet is one upgrade that has a high ratio of value to cost. It substantially increases perceived value for homebuyers without requiring home sellers to spend a bundle. “Even less expensive carpet styles will freshen the look of a room and prepare it for sale,” Richmond notes. “You can get a lot more quality for just a little more money, she says, “and if you take advantage of spring carpet sales, installing new carpeting can cost even less.”

 2. Clean flooring
 If your carpet is still in great shape, then simply having it professionally cleaned can make it look even

better. A deep professional cleaning helps lift tough soils and provides a cleaner, fresher look to rooms. CRI experts can even provide insight into how to remove difficult stains. Not only is carpet a good value, it’s healthy, too. People with allergies or other sensitivities are installing carpet to improve indoor air quality. Recent studies support previous findings that carpet, when effectively cleaned, traps allergens and other particles, resulting in less dust, dander and airborne contaminants escaping into the air. Don’t forget to clean all other flooring, including hardwood, laminates and tile. Buyers will appreciate a sparkling clean appearance throughout the house.

3. Repaint in neutral shades 
 Fresh paint is another smart and cost-effective upgrade for sellers. Buyers expect it, yet many sellers hesitate to repaint. Perhaps they like the existing colors or balk at the cost of professional painting services. Yet repainting in neutral colors makes a room look fresher and brighter, and gives buyers a visual “blank slate” against which to imagine their own decor. Do the work yourself and you can reduce the cost of repainting even further.

 4. Update or upgrade lighting 
 You may find that disco-ball style globe light charming in your kitchen, but the average buyer doesn’t want dated or unusual lighting. Replacing dated or worn fixtures, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, is a cost-effective way to give a room a more up-to-date, contemporary look. If you already have newer fixtures, consider replacing incandescent bulbs with high-efficiency options such as CFLs or LEDs. Although they’re a bit more expensive to purchase, these bulbs last years longer – a selling point for buyers who will reap the value of not having to replace bulbs any time in the near future.

 5. Install new faucets 
 A high-end faucet can completely change the look and usability of a kitchen or bathroom. In terms of cost versus value, an upgraded faucet, such as pull-out or even touch-free styles, can dramatically increase perceived value for a relatively modest investment. An upgraded faucet is a thoughtful touch that will set your home apart in buyers’ minds.

 6. Replace hardware throughout the home 
 You may have already thought of upgrading kitchen cabinet knobs and drawer pulls, but have you also upgraded hardware in your bathroom or on the front door? These seemingly small items have a major impact on the overall visual effect of a home. In desirable rooms such as kitchens and baths, designer hardware can elevate the entire look of the room. And upgraded door hardware will ensure buyers have a positive first impression from the moment they enter your home.

For more tips on adding style to your home for a speedy sale, call Interior Surfaces at 614.761.7856 and make an appointment to meet with any of our staff at 4353 H Tuller Road, Dublin, OH 43017.

From floor to fixtures: Top spring home decor trends add style and personality

(BPT) - Spring is in the air, which means it’s time to refresh your indoor spaces to reflect the energy and optimism of the season. The top home decor trends of spring 2014 take a fresh approach to traditional design elements to create an aesthetic that is fresh and full of life. Best yet, the trends are easily accessible, so anyone can update their space with a few simple tips.

Carpet

More homeowners are seeking the beauty, comfort and safety that carpet provides, making it a top flooring trend for spring 2014 and beyond. What types of carpet are popular?

“New soft fibers,” says Vickie Gilstrap, director of design services for The Dixie Group, a top U.S. carpet manufacturer. “Consumers went away from wall-to-wall carpet, as hard surface flooring gained in popularity. Then, people began to miss the softness and warmth of carpet. Carpet absorbs sound, making homes quieter, and traps dust at the base of the carpet fibers so that dust doesn't circulate in the room air. The soft fibers give us a reason to put carpet down again.”  She is also seeing increased interest in “mixed-media” carpet styles – with hi-lustre and low-lustre yarns used in the same carpet. Additionally, patterns are being featured on top of texture, giving a multi-dimensional appearance to flooring.


Not only stylish, carpet is healthy, too. People with allergies or other sensitivities can choose carpet as a way to improve indoor air quality. A recent study supports previous findings that carpet, when effectively cleaned, traps allergens and other particles, resulting in less dust, dander and airborne contaminants escaping into the air.

Color

Thoughtful use of color in home design is a top trend for 2014. “Colors are getting warmer,” notes Gilstrap. “Taupe is the bridge color taking us from gray to browner tones. Warm pinks are returning, as well as warmer greens like moss and olive - even apple.”
This spring, more homeowners are using textures and patterns to make a visual statement through design. Strategic use of texture and patterns can highlight certain interior spaces, manipulate the light within the room and influence scale. Blending both adds visual interest and helps homeowners create a unique space to call their own.
Lighting plays an important two-pronged role: it makes a space functional and also helps define its design aesthetic. Adjusting the task lighting within a room can instantly make the space more livable and highlight the design motif. Another easy lighting update is purchasing new lamps or simply adding new shades to existing lamps – a great way to refresh a space with minimal cost.

Keep in mind adding personality to a space through use of warm color doesn’t necessarily require a complete interior overhaul. Consider incorporating spring colors using accent pieces. It’s easy to switch up pillows, throws or artwork without investing a lot of time or money. Plus it’s a fun way to update the personality of your favorite spaces every season.

Texture and pattern

“Layering of pattern and texture – in floors, walls, upholstery, window treatments – gives a more individualized feel,” says Gilstrap. Scared of mixing patterns and textures? She suggests placing patterns on stairs or in hallways. If big and bold patterns aren’t your taste, consider sticking to small, neutral patterns that can be a subtle way to add visual interest and design complexity to interior spaces.

Lighting

Keep in mind, when selecting fixtures, there’s no longer a need to avoid gold tones. “Gold is coming back– we are seeing more gold and copper and less silver,” says Gilstrap.

Want to really redefine your home’s lighting? Ornamental lighting is big this year with designers thinking outside the box when it comes to how and where these fixtures can be used. For example, dramatic chandeliers are no longer reserved for formal spaces such as the dining room or foyer. This spring, you can add a touch of elegance to any space by adding a stylish chandelier, plus it doesn't take up much design real estate space. Bedrooms, basements and bars are just a few unique areas where chandeliers can be featured.

For more tips on adding style to your home this spring, call Interior Surfaces at 614.761.7856 and make an appointment to meet with any of our staff at 4353 H Tuller Road, Dublin, OH 43017. 

Simple designer tricks for creating a stunning master bedroom

(BPT) - It's the place where you wake each day, rest your head each night, and go to when you need to escape the stress of daily life. If there's one room in the house that should be a personalized retreat for homeowners, it's the master bedroom. And with a few simple tips from design experts, you can easily take your master bedroom from boring to beautiful and add to your home's overall value.

"When designing a space in your home, it's always a good idea to go through the process in a methodical way to achieve the results you want," says Jill Winninger, Allied ASID, CID, and senior interior designer with Seaside Home in La Jolla, Calif. "Foundation, function and finishing details make the process fun and effective."

Here is Winninger's three-step process for creating a grand master retreat:

Step 1: Foundation

Start by choosing the flooring that matches your personal style and the functionality of the space. Nothing beats the comfort of carpet in a master bedroom. Carpet and a high quality pad keep floors warmer and enhance privacy by absorbing noises. Today's top trend in carpet is super soft and silky fibers that feel luxurious when you step, lie or lounge on them.

Think carpet is out because you have allergies? It's time to think again, Numerous medical and other studies show that people who suffer from allergies and even asthma do not have to live without the comfort and softness of carpet. That's because the dust that falls to a carpeted floor has a much stronger tendency to stay on the carpet until it is vacuumed away. Dust on hard floors, however, is stirred with every passing movement or footstep right back up into a room's breathing space.

Of course, regular maintenance is important. Frequent vacuuming with a high efficiency vacuum like the ones on the Carpet and Rug Institute's Seal of Approval vacuum list, as well as periodic deep-cleanings are musts. -And, no matter what kind of floor you have, high-traffic areas should be vacuumed daily, with less frequently-used areas vacuumed once or twice a week.

Another important foundation element is the walls. When selecting colors, select hues that work with the rest of your home's decor so the spaces flow smoothly. You can't go wrong with basic neutrals. Foundation details like crown molding, wainscoting or wallpaper can add a splash of personality.

When deciding on foundation elements, keep in mind the focal points of the room. Is there a fireplace? A gorgeous wall of windows highlighting an exquisite view? Do you have a bed with a statement headboard that will be prominent? Highlight these focal points within your design decisions.

Step 2: Function

Beauty is just one part of the equation when designing a grand master bedroom. The space needs to function and suit your lifestyle.

Function is particularly important when selecting furniture. Do you need storage for clothes and accessories? Do you want to hide electronics? Do you have a specific bed size? After considering your options, choose wisely and allow enough room between furniture pieces so that you can move freely.

Privacy is also an important consideration. Like carpet, window treatments also help to control noise, plus they offer the added benefit of masking -windows in the evenings and when high levels of privacy are needed. From a decorative perspective, window treatments add softness and style, critical to designing a stunning room.-

Step 3: Finish

Some of the most important elements of master bedroom design are the details. This is where you can add a few personal touches to the space to create a truly individualized sanctuary.

Start by choosing comfortable, inviting bedding, pillows and throws. Create clustered vignettes of photos or personal collections to give the space your unique stamp. Appropriately scaled art and accessories add visual interest.

Remember, accessories are a good way to add splashes of color to your master bedroom. If you like a particular tone - like rich teals, ruby reds or baby blue - select a few accessories that feature that hue and strategically place them throughout the room. Accessories that feature different textures add interest and character as well.

"From carpet and furniture to photos and duvet covers, creating a master retreat you'll love is simpler than you think," says Winninger. "Just focus on the foundation, function and finishing touches, and the result is sure to be gorgeous."

Want more tips?  Call Interior Surfaces at 614.761.7856 and make an appointment and meet with any of our staff at 4353 H Tuller Road, Dublin, Ohio 43017.