Posts by Steve Shinn, CR
10 Keys to a Well-Functioning House
The design of a house can have a profound effect on how we feel, but we often attribute this to aesthetics. In fact, it’s about so much more including creating a well-functioning house. Good design should enhance our experience of a space, and the way a room looks is almost the icing on the cake.…
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Dream Kitchen Must-Haves: From Practical to Luxurious
When designing your dream kitchen, it’s okay to dream big! Here is a compiled list of 11 features that will elevate your kitchen from functional to fabulous. Some are splurge-worthy, while others are practical upgrades that will make your life easier. 1. Quartz Countertops Quartz offers the beauty of natural stone like granite or marble,…
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High-Value Bathroom Upgrades
When it comes to bathroom remodels, budgets are rarely limitless. So, where should you invest for the biggest impact? Three bathroom experts share their insights on high-value upgrades that will enhance both the look and functionality of your space. 1. Skylight Giulianna del Popolo, principal designer at GDP Interior Design, highly recommends skylights. Natural light…
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Liven Up Your Space with a Compact Home Bar
While a sprawling basement pub might not be in the cards, a well-designed home bar can add personality and functionality to your home, even in a limited footprint. Here, designers share their tips for creating stylish and efficient home beverage stations. 1. Basement Bonus Room This basement media room incorporates a full-service bar with a…
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Top 10 Kitchen Island Must-Haves for 2023
Kitchen islands are the heart of the modern kitchen, offering extra prep space, storage, and a place to gather. But with so many design options, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here, we reveal the 10 features kitchen designers recommend most often to create a beautiful and functional island that reflects your…
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Top Flooring Trends of 2023: Beauty Meets Performance
Gone are the days when flooring was purely functional. Today’s flooring options are both stylish and durable, making them perfect for busy families and design enthusiasts alike. Here’s a look at what’s hot in flooring for 2023: Light and Bright Wood Light-colored wood floors with a touch of character remain a popular choice. White oak…
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10 TIPS FOR A MORE PEACEFUL HOME
Maintaining a Zen-like space is about much more than style. It’s about cultivating a more peaceful home where each object has a reason for being present, whether for its beauty, utility, or both. A More Peaceful Home 1. Clear Surfaces Daily Clutter is a visual distraction for a more peaceful home. Every time your eyes…
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COMMON DECORATING MISTAKES AND HOW TO FIX THEM
If you’re scratching your head over why the decor in your home leaves you feeling slightly underwhelmed, a remedy — or at least an improvement — may be just a few moves away. Whether it’s a bland room, a paint color you’re not quite sure about, or throw pillows that refuse to sit right, here…
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10 LIVING ROOM FEATURES PROS ALWAYS RECOMMEND
Kitchens and bathrooms get a lot of remodeling attention. But there’s been a surge of interest in living room updates in recent years. Many living room features are typically less expensive than the major changes often involved in kitchen and bathroom renovations. And the pandemic has changed the way many people want to live in their…
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6 TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR REMODEL MORE SUSTAINABLE
Whether you’re remodeling or building from scratch, it’s a great opportunity for making your home more sustainable (environmentally friendly). From finding local materials to designing easy-to-clean spaces with an eye to the future, here are six expert insights you need to know if you’re eager to go green. Making Your Home More Sustainable 1. Look…
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