SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT
copper. Silver metallics remain a favorite to many, both for accent
pieces and hardware.
• Intense paint colors: Deep hues are trending in 2018, bringing pops
of color to all rooms of the house. While too much of a good thing
can make it feel like it’s midnight in the middle of the day, use deeper
colors for a dramatic accent wall or as a modern backsplash.
Home Office Space Ideas
An uptick in self-employment and flexible workplace settings are
allowing home offices to become one of the most-used areas in the
house. But dedicating an entire room to an office may not always
be doable. Be creative when designing a home office and look for
underutilized spaces. Clear out space in a finished attic for a desk, chair
and some added lighting. Better yet, shut the door for some real quiet
time. No attic space? Dedicate a wall in the basement as a workspace by
adding a small area rug under a desk to warm up the room. Be sure to
schedule laundry at a different time to avoid distractions. If all else fails,
a niche in the family room can be a dedicated space to get work done.
With the right accents and furniture, any area can make the perfect home
office.
• Less is more: It’s impossible to have a clear mind with a cluttered
workspace. Keep home offices simple to avoid the desire to keep
unnecessary papers and books piled on top of a desk. Create a home
for everything on your desk. Set aside a space for writing utensils,
notebooks, and hardware that is neat and tidy. A filing cabinet is best
to organize papers and store supplies.
• Multipurpose surfaces and furniture: Finding multipurpose
furniture for small office spaces is key for optimal use of space.
Mobile furniture makes packing up after a long day of work a breeze.
Use wall space as storage, with desks that fold back into a wall mount.
Avoid purchasing furniture that looks like it would be found in an
office. If you’re utilizing a room for several different purposes,
shop around for furniture that complements the look of the
entire room.
Home trends are shaping up to add comfort and value to homes.
Focus on accenting natural features both inside and outside. Smart
homes look to be the future, but these innovative technologies
will bring a new dynamic to homeownership, with challenges of
maintaining security being top of mind. Find a balance in your
home-decorating style by adding features that bring out the very
best in you and your family. Whether it’s a pop of color in your
kitchen, or a fantastic feature in your backyard, make your home
your own this year. ■
KEYSTONE OAKS
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SPRING 2018
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