Our Home and Our House

The convergence of old and new defines the essence of great interior design. Harmonizing beloved classics with contemporary trends allows you to craft spaces that feel connected to the past yet are still current and fresh. This nuanced balance requires thoughtfulness, but it yields interiors with depth, character, and style.

Honor Architectural Origins

Most homes reflect the era in which they were built through distinct architectural details. Decorating to complement these origins connects the space to its heritage. Study classic elements like moldings, built-ins, tile work, arches, and hardwoods.

Enhance crown molding, chair rails and baseboards with paint or restoration. Salute the past with an antique chandelier or sconce. Maintain vintage tile if in good condition and restore hardwood flooring by sanding and refinishing.

Such elements offer launching points to fuse old and new. For example, display contemporary art and furnishings against original plaster walls. The juxtaposition of eras makes … Read more

Buying a first home can certainly be an exciting experience. No doubt it is a lot of fun to browse listings online, look at photos, and check out neighborhoods. That says nothing of actually seeing houses in person. But don’t forget mortgage lending. It is a part of the equation that gives many first-time buyers trouble.

Getting a mortgage is not as easy as it seems. Sure, you can get quick preapproval with just a little information about your job and income. But preapproval doesn’t equal a guarantee. More than one first-time buyer has learned that the hard way.

If you are looking to buy your first home, here are important things you should know, compliments of Mortgage Maestro:

1. Applications Must Go Through Underwriting

Sticking with the idea of preapproval not being any guarantee, first-time buyers should understand that all loan applications must go through the underwriting process. … Read more

Managing rainwater flows from roof to ground is crucial for homeowners seeking to prevent foundation damage, flooding issues, and excessive moisture seepage into basements or crawlspaces. Implementing effective gutter systems, grading the landscape properly, improving drainage, and waterproofing foundations are key to safely directing water away from the home.

Gutters and Downspouts: The First Line of Defense

Gutters and downspouts serve as the first critical step in controlling the gallons of rainwater that run off roofs. Keeping these systems properly sloped, free of debris, secured to the home, and directing water into functioning downspouts is vital. When gutters overflow because of clogs from leaves, needles, and debris, it leads to a host of problems such as wood rot, soil erosion around foundations, flooded basements, and excess water seeping into crawlspaces.

Homeowners should make it a priority to inspect and clean their gutters at least two times per year in the … Read more

Redefining Commercial Landscaping with Artificial Grass

When it comes to making a lasting impression, the aesthetics of your commercial space play a crucial role. A well-designed and inviting exterior can attract customers, create a positive atmosphere for employees, and set the tone for your business’s identity. If you’re looking to transform your commercial space into a captivating environment, consider the innovative potential of artificial grass.

In this blog, we’ll explore the ways in which artificial grass can elevate the aesthetics of your commercial space, making it more appealing, engaging, and unique. Let’s look at the challenges often faced by commercial property owners and managers and how artificial grass can offer a solution.

The Challenge of Commercial Landscaping

Commercial spaces come in all shapes and sizes, from office complexes and shopping centers to hotels and recreational facilities. Regardless of the type of business, the exterior appearance holds significant importance. However, … Read more