SPECIAL SECTION HOME IMPROVEMENT
Love to cook? Add specific features that enhance your cooking
experience, such as pot-filler faucets above the stove or double
ovens for twice the cooking power. Not quite a chef? Create an
inviting space for guests to gather around with decorative pops of
color added by useful appliances that make cooking a breeze.
• Mix and match: Gone are the days of matching appliances. A
variety of companies are now offering new color lines of large
appliances to mix and match for a trendy look. Matte finishes
are an alternative to stainless steel, boasting a fingerprint-free
surface that provides a sleek look. Two-toned cabinets are also
sticking, bringing in similar hues while adding interest to the
space.
• Quartz and high-end laminate: Granite is making an exit
as the most popular countertop with a durable, fresh-looking
competitor taking its place in the ranking: quartz. Quartz
is harder than granite and not porous, making it nearly
indestructible and easy to maintain. Don’t have the budget for
quartz? What used to get a bad rap is now stealing the show.
High-end laminate is now imitating the look of a natural stone
countertop. Don’t rule it out until you’ve seen it.
• Golden fixtures: This year is all about customization, allowing
for more freedom when choosing kitchen fixtures. Brass
and copper finishes are paired with slate appliances to add a
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modern feel to the entertainment hub of the home.
Decorating Trends
Decorating has never been so customizable. Focus on your
inner self and what makes you feel calm, relaxed and comfortable
in your home. This year is all about self-care and bringing
happiness into the home.
• Bring in the green: Plants not only add a pop of color to any
room, they also improve air quality and purify the air. Choose
plants that are easy to grow and maintain for a foolproof way to
freshen up a room.
• Geometric patterns: Farther down on the trends list for 2017,
geometric patterns crept up to #1 on the list of trends in home
decor this year. Add these unique patterns with tiled floors,
backsplashes, or shower stalls. Too permanent? Try adding a
funky wallpaper or piece of art to the walls. Fabrics are also
a simple way to add interest to a room and can quickly be
changed out when a new trend comes along.
Continued on page 39 >
MT. LEBANON
❘
SPRING 2018
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