Get the Look 4 Less

rebecca soskin April 21, 2016

This sitting room has been very popular on Houzz probably because of its simplicity and inviting atmosphere. Although we cut a few corners and found some good deals the total price for this room was about $3800. If you're looking to save a little more it might take a little time but it's certainly possible! Take a look at my "look for less" version below which costs less than half the price!

As you can see I was able to find very similar items by shopping around and checking for sales. There are a million great e-commerce sites that have fantastic deals and you can mix and match to get the colors and styles that best fit your space. It's always good to use an image you like for inspiration but make a few tweaks so that it's unique

Happy bargain hunting!

Kitchen Remodel

rebecca soskin April 18, 2016

I think most of you would agree that your kitchen is the most used and most important space in your home. You cook, you clean, you feed your kids, you hang out and drink with friends and family, you watch tv, homework gets done, bags and shoes get dropped, kids get dressed for practice, the dog gets fed and so on and so forth. No matter what your day brings, the kitchen gets the most visits per day. With that being said, it makes sense to put your money where you'll be able to appreciate it most.

Here's an example of a kitchen I recently re-modeled for a client. The cabinets were in decent shape so we gave it a facelift, added new hardwood floors, counter tops, hardware, window treatments, faucet/sink and some fresh furnishings.

The cabinets and counter tops were dark, the floor and backsplash were outdated tile and the walls needed a fresh, light coat of paint

Lightening the cabinets and walls instantly made the space feel larger and more inviting. In addition the updated pendants, backsplash, stools and window treatments gave it a fresh new look so that it feels current.

You can see how dark and cold it felt before. We want all the natural light we can possibly get!

Let there be light! We added a new table and chairs and a side console that once again gave the space an updated look. The cornice boxes are a nice way to add some pattern but I made sure to mount them high and not completely cover the windows so that you can still see the beautiful details of the original Victorian panes and soak up all that sun! The chandelier was existing - we just spray lacquered it and added new shades to match!

So as you can see there are all kinds of ways to update your kitchen. You don't always need to do a complete gut renovation (although sometimes it's necessary). If you're ready to take on that kitchen you've been dying to do for years, let me help. I promise it will make a huge difference in your day to day life :)

Wow Right Now!

rebecca soskin April 15, 2016

Clients and friends are always asking for ideas to give their home that extra punch and my answer is usually the same regardless of the space; bring in some color and something new with accessories. It could be lamps, pillows, a throw, a mirror, art or a few new coffee table books and chachki's for the bookshelf. The smaller items are easier to swap out when you need a change and a little something can go a long way. This way you can achieve an entirely new look in your space without starting from scratch. So to give you some inspiration as the weekend rolls around i've selected a few items that will give your space a little wow right now. After all, we all want instant gratification.