http://coldwellbankerbozeman.com/blog/categoryname_home-updates/sort_entrydatetime-desc/ If you’ve just bought a house, or you’re in the market to update your interior, 2020 has a few big trends to follow! A new decade means a new stylish change to furniture, paint, and decor. With European inspiration and emphasis on adding color, these trends are fun and versatile!  Classic BlueThe 2020 Pantone Color of the Year is a deep shade of blue. There are plenty of beautiful ways to have classic blue in your home: whether it’s a stunning painted wall, a versatile bedside table in your bedroom, or some comfy couch pillows! Blue in the home is sure to outlast just 2020, and who doesn’t love sporting the Coldwell Banker color!  Non-White KitchenThe end of the 2010s also brings the end of a clean, all-white kitchen look. You will not longer see white marble counters, all-white cabinets, with all-white plates and bowls. Natural wood accents, dark counters, and plants will start being incorporated into the most stylish kitchens. It’s time to have some fun with your kitchen and make it feel like home!Rattan & Wicker Furniture Although rattan and wicker furniture has usually been exiled outside to the patio, due to Scandinavian design trends taking over the United States, it’s time to bring that furniture in. Whether it’s chairs, hampers, or tables: the boho accents can be seen as a perfect accent to any house!Dark Painted DoorsAdd warmth to any room by painting interior doors a bold color! This trick can add personality to any home and help a room stand out to your guests. This is a simple change, but it can make your home so much more stylish!  http://coldwellbankerbozeman.com/blog/8311/2020-interior-design-trends/ Mon, 02 Mar 2020 11:24:28 -0700 You’ve just bought your first home – congratulations! Now it’s time to make your home feel like, well, home by undertaking some long-term investments that will not only look beautiful, but will also last you for years to come.SHAREThe following is a guest post by Suhayl LaherIn today’s post, we’re offering some advice for first-time homeowners on areas where spending a little bit more is likely to pay off in the long-run. From valuable aesthetic updates in key areas such as the kitchen, bathroom and living room to installing smart heating systems and insulation to prioritize energy efficiency, our tips will leave you inspired to make the most out of your first home update.Replace flooringFlooring has the power to change a room entirely, so it should go without saying that this is an essential aspect of the home where you should consider spending a little extra. Since flooring in areas such as the hallway, kitchen and bathroom is likely to undergo high footfall traffic, your material choice should always look to combine durability with that visual wow-factor where possible.When it comes to updating your flooring, choose neutral colors to create a luxe look that goes the distance. Generally, neutral colors offer you the freedom to change your furniture or accessories without updating all the fixtures and fittings in the process, and will even allow you to keep up with trends as they change.Whether you’re opting for some stylish, large format floor tiles which offer a contemporary touch in the kitchen or some hardwood flooring which adds warmth to your living room, quality flooring is a great way to add personality to a new space from the off – meaning showing your floors a little TLC should be high up on your list of investment priorities.Update key areas of the homeAs the hub of the home where friends and family alike come together to relax, the living room is the best place to start when it comes to fixtures and fittings. Lighting can have a huge impact on the overall aesthetic in your living room – so it’s worth spending a little bit more on lamps or downlighters to add that cozy, homely touch to the lounge.Additionally, art is a great way to change the ambiance in your living room, so choosing pieces with comfort and calmness in mind is a great way to add a tranquil theme that makes you feel right at home from the get-go.Naturally, ensuring your bathroom looks fresh, well maintained and hygienic is important when moving into any new home. Modern or high tech touches are an effective way to add an extra luxe appeal, so consider investing in a rain shower or waterfall taps to create a relaxing oasis that washes away the stresses of moving and unpacking.Elsewhere in the home, high-end fittings such as granite or quartz worktops are practical choices that will go the distance. Though these may be a high investment initially, investing in durable, hard-wearing and practical materials in areas of frequent use ensures longevity and, as such, a great return on your investment in the long-run. Photo by Andrea Davis on UnsplashInvest in quality furnitureNothing makes a house feel like home quite like furniture – after all, furniture is the most effective way of adding character to any space. When opting for your style, try to prioritize items that will stand the test of time, as this will ensure your first few years in your new home isn’t spent constantly renovating in-line with the latest trends.When choosing timeless furniture, wood is often the first material which springs to mind. While solid wood is often more expensive than other types, it boasts a distinctive aesthetic and durability that will look great year after year. Whether you’re purchasing an oak cabinet for the living room or some luxury walnut bedroom cabinets, solid wood is an effective way to add a high-end, comforting appeal to your home.Prioritize energy efficiencyEnergy efficiency is now one of the highest priorities for homeowners as it can make a significant difference in the cost of utility bills. While adding energy-efficient features may be a large initial investment, the sooner you start making the changes, the greater your savings will be – so we recommend optimizing your new home right away. Some essential areas to evaluate energy efficiency are the boiler and the loft. Poorly insulated lofts can be a major cause of energy wastage, even if all of your other appliances are in premium condition. If appliances such as your boiler aren’t in a premium condition, however, this could only add more costs to your energy bills, particularly if it breaks down during the winter months.To keep track of your heating usage and spot issues early, a smart heating system is a great way to monitor your spending. Smart heaters allow you to add more thermostats and controls to different rooms, including hot water and heating – making this a logical investment for any first home.Photo by Francesca Tosolini on UnsplashIt’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of moving house, but with our tips, we hope you’ll be on your way to making worthwhile investments in your first home. If you’re still in search of that dream first house, contact your local Coldwell Banker Real Estate affiliated office to help make the process of buying a house trouble-free. Suhayl Laher works at Tiles Direct one of the UK’s largest independent tile distributors and retailers – bringing design inspiration to homeowners, architects and developers. http://coldwellbankerbozeman.com/blog/7242/4-investments-worth-making-in-your-first-home/ Mon, 16 Dec 2019 10:32:42 -0700 The following is a guest post by Alex Jones – content writer for JaguarOn the journey to selling your home, it can be all too easy to focus solely on finding your new dream property and forget to ensure the home you leave behind is a dream property for its next inhabitants. Creating a beautiful living space that you’ll soon be leaving may seem counterproductive, but the good news is giving your home some targeted TLC before selling can increase its value at a time when that matters most.To help you make your property that little bit more irresistible, our friends at Jaquar are honing in on the bathroom – a space full of renovation potential. From full-scale makeover ideas to the finer details, you’ll find ideas galore for redecorating your way to a hefty new home fund.A blank canvas color palettePale, muted and earthy shades are widely acknowledged as appealing to potential buyers due to being stripped-back and, as a result, boundless in potential. Without a bold, imposing color scheme limiting their imagination, prospective buyers will be able to effortlessly picture themselves living in the space.A neutral color palette is particularly at home in the bathroom, which should be designated as a space for peaceful, uninterrupted relaxation. Calming shades such as white, cream and beige are ideal for creating that all-important atmosphere of zen – and with any luck, potential buyers will feel their worries melt away the moment they first set foot in your blank canvas bathroom.Vertical storage space maximizedIn smaller homes, storage space is at a premium – and even if your property is a reasonable size, there’s no denying the appeal of extra storage options that don’t impose on the living space itself.In the bathroom, your best bet is to unlock the potential of your available vertical space – introducing new hanging storage baskets, wall-mounted hooks and rails, and floating shelves, all of which are as affordable as they are effective. With these simple storage additions, you can create an utterly clutter-free space where everything has its right place – guaranteed to go down a storm with prospective buyers.A striking statement bathtubIntroducing a distinctive statement feature to your home is interior design 101 – and the bathroom is a particularly effective space for putting this idea into action. To promptly dial up your bathroom’s aesthetic from perfectly adequate to unmistakably premium, invest in a sumptuous statement bath that immediately catches the eye.Free-standing bathtubs, in particular, add instant opulence to any bathroom, conjuring images of tranquil living in the lap of luxury. If your property can make a promise as powerful as that, finding a buyer shouldn’t be a problem.Radiant lighting fixturesThe right lighting is the key to the right ambiance, and ambiance isn’t something that can be neglected in a relaxation station like the bathroom. In keeping with your understated yet elegant aesthetic, you can increase your bathroom’s appeal further still by illuminating the space with gently glowing sconces, under-cabinet or over-shelf lighting, an industrial-look pendant lamp or a combination of the lot if you’re open to something a little more eclectic.Of course, the ultimate bathroom lighting solution is to introduce a skylight, bathing the entire space in rejuvenating natural light. This will mean a far greater financial investment on your part, but is likely to pay dividends when the time comes to sell your home.Premium extras aplentyWith your neutral color palette, vertical storage options, statement bathtub and luxurious light fixtures firmly in place, all that’s left is to ice the cake – by which we mean put the finishing touches on your irresistible bathroom.From elegant wall mirrors and dainty cabinets to a fashionable and functional splashback behind the basin or in the shower, the options are practically endless when it comes to accessorizing your way to a bathroom any prospective buyer will be happy to pay more for the luxury of living in. Alex Jones is a content writer for Jaquar, who specializes in complete premium bathroom solutions – delivering everyday luxury to a global market. http://coldwellbankerbozeman.com/blog/7214/selling-your-home:-5-bathroom-renovations-that-will-pay-off/ Mon, 25 Nov 2019 09:28:24 -0700 Guest post by  Michelle Lee, HouzzAs nights get shorter and the weather gets colder, a lot of us will be retreating indoors for warmth and comfort. If your room still resembles a bright and breezy summer oasis, this might be the time to refresh its look for fall. Fuzzy blankets and snuggable pillows are some of this season’s essentials, so get ready to layer these textures for an autumnal haven.Photo by Arlo & Jacob – Browse living room ideasGo for velvet. This material is making a huge comeback in recent style trends and is a must-have staple of fall decor. The rich fabric adds undeniable elegance to any room. It practically begs you to sit down and stay awhile. Velvet furniture comes in a variety of beautifully bold colors, such as this navy sofa that brings instant drama to this London living room. You can also reupholster your own piece of furniture in velvet instead of buying a new one. Photo by Carriage Lane Design-Build Inc. – More bathroom photosAdd a sheepskin rug. If you love wearing slippers around the house and are craving for more warmth underfoot, look no further than a classic sheepskin rug. They are incredibly versatile and can work in any room. Drape one over the back of a chair or sofa or use it as an extra layer on the bed. Its warm, fuzzy texture creates an effortlessly luxurious look. They’re mostly seen in snow-white shades, but they can be customized in a variety of colors. Photo by Saviano Builders – Look for bedroom picturesConsider wool, cashmere, and knits. These fabrics aren’t restricted to cold-weather clothing; they can be used in home decor as well. Resembling your favorite fall sweater, they immediately conjure up feelings of warmth and stay true to that promise when used as blankets and throws. Available in a multitude of colors and price points, you can easily match them to your current decor scheme and budget. This charmingly chunky knit throw blanket invites you to hibernate here. Photo by Oivanki Photography – Discover living room design ideasLayer up the drapes. Give your walls some love this season by investing in floor-to-ceiling window treatments. They can help a small space look and feel taller when mounted to the ceiling while thick, billowy curtains can bring a snug feeling to a large and drafty room. Insulating soft fabric also combats the soon-to-be cold weather outdoors. Neutral colors, such as beige and gray, work best to create a calming and peaceful vibe, as seen in this New Orleans living room. Photo by deluxe design studio – Browse home design photosKeep a basket of blankets handy. Bulky blankets are always welcome on cozy fall nights, but they can be a struggle to store if you don’t have a linen closet. Handwoven and braided storage baskets are a great solution. They’re both budget-friendly and adorably fitting for fall. They add an extra layer of texture to the room. Most are deep enough to store several thick blankets. These baskets take up very little space, so they can easily be placed next to a sofa, in an empty nook or near the hearth. Take a hint from this Minneapolis living room and leave the corner of a blanket hanging out for some fuzzy flair. Photo by Deborah French Designs – Browse living room ideasConsider floor pillows and poufs. If you’re hosting a lot of family and friends this holiday season, floor pillows can work double-duty as decorations and seating. Poufs can be surprisingly comfortable and easily stacked in a corner as a beautiful display when not in use. They’re also a low-commitment way to experiment with fun prints around the house. Photo by CONCEPT SALTIN – More living room photosDecorate with festive throw pillows. Throw pillows are easy, minimal decorations that pack a punch of style. Available in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes, they can be customized to your design preference and color palette. Alternatively, you can venture out of your comfort zone and test bold colors or interesting patterns. In this Scandinavian living room, the silver tufted pillow and orange ruffled pillow bring interesting dimension to an otherwise minimalist and neutral space. Photo by Designdock Lakberendezés – Search living room design ideasCozy up by the fire. If you’re lucky enough to have a rustic stone fireplace at home, you have plenty of texture and dimension to work with this fall. For those of us who don’t, you can still play up your fire feature by displaying cute collections or holiday ornaments on the mantel. Even if you have an electric fireplace, stacking wood indoors creates the cabin ambience that is essential to this lovable season. If you don’t have a fireplace at all, consider placing candles around your home. Renters and child proofers might try LED candles, which have become very realistic and even scented. Flame or no flame, the soft flicker and warm glow will instantly cozy up any space. http://coldwellbankerbozeman.com/blog/7131/pile-on-textures-for-a-comfy-and-cozy-space-this-fall/ Mon, 07 Oct 2019 10:17:16 -0700 When you long to freshen up a room but your hours or funds are limited, consider one or more of these speedy little projects. By dabbling in DIY or simply switching things around, you may be able to satisfy the urge for a new look without having to commit to a full-on makeover.Claire Clerc1. Mimic the look of a headboard. A painted panel behind a bed makes a surprisingly effective headboard. Mark off the area with professional-quality painters tape to avoid color bleeds and achieve a neat edge. Then simply paint the wall to form a headboard. A slim shelf and nightstand painted the same color enhance the effect.Houzz TV: How to Paint a Wall Like a ProDomus Nova2. Bring in greenery. No time to dash to the florist? Head outside to gather an armful of greenery and arrange it in a big vase for an instant injection of color. Use whatever’s in season — blossoms in spring, lush foliage in summer, evergreens in autumn and even bare twigs in winter. If you don’t fancy the idea of one big vase, try arranging a few stems in a collection of smaller vessels instead.Find vases to match your decorHAUS.3. Lay a rug in the kitchen. If you’ve been flirting with the idea of a kitchen rug, borrow one from another room to test it out. Maybe you even have one rolled up somewhere because it no longer goes with your living room color scheme.Either way, the trial run won’t take long, so, if you like the effect, you can spend a little extra time browsing rugs online to make one a more permanent fixture.Street Monkey Architects4. Rearrange the furniture. It’s easy to become “room blind” when you’ve lived somewhere for a while, so try moving furniture from one space to another to get a different look. This easy chair is in a bedroom, but it also could work in a kitchen. Or try swapping a side table for a bedside cabinet, or moving lamps into different rooms or even just to a different area of the same room.Louise de Miranda5. Add hooks. Whether to display pretty items or store necessities like coats and mugs, hooks easily change the look of a space. Since this branch rests on the shelf supports, with S-hooks hanging off it, there wasn’t even any need to get out the drill.Fanny Prat - Architecte d'intérieur6. Hang a strip of wallpaper. Papering a whole room in an hour or so might be pushing it, but a narrow strip is doable. A powder room like this is an ideal place to experiment, but a narrow wall or alcove in a hallway, bathroom or kid’s room would work well too.Browse wallpaperFarrow & Ball7. Paint a door. Give an interior door a rubdown with sandpaper to prepare the surface and then add an unexpected splash of color with a coat of paint.Tribe Creative London8. Show off a collection. A few hooks on the wall — that’s all it took to elevate, literally and figuratively, this collection of baskets. Plates or framed paintings, postcards or photos can all get a new lease on life when taken off the shelf and put on the wall, so grab a drill and get to work. If the pieces you want to hang are reasonably light, you could even use removable Command hooks.An Insider’s Guide to Creating the Perfect Gallery Wall2LG StudioSave Photo9. Shuffle display items. Have you had the same knickknacks on the sideboard for so long that you never even notice them anymore? Look at your surroundings with fresh eyes and enjoy moving things about. Regroup, swap stuff around or bring in items from a different room for an easy way to update your design.Credits: Susannah Hutchinson  - Houzz http://coldwellbankerbozeman.com/blog/7038/9-quick-ways-to-refresh-a-room/ Wed, 24 Jul 2019 10:16:29 -0700