Contemporary home décor design tips for a luxury feel

One of the best ways to create a sleek and chic setting to spend time in is by redesigning your home. The materials you use and even the colors you incorporate into the space will determine how upscale and luxurious it feels. If you want to create a contemporary environment that feels high-end, there are a few design tips and ideas to consider when shopping for luxury furniture.

Create the Color Palette

One of the main factors that determine the looks and feel of your interior setting is the color palette, which is the backdrop of the space. Neutral color shades with hints of metallic accents continue to be on trend. Choose ivory, beige, and gray colors. Neutral color shades also make the room appear larger and more spacious.

If you want something upscale on the walls, consider adding luxury wallpaper that is elegant and has decorative elements. You can also apply wallpaper to an accent wall to prevent the room from feeling smaller or too cluttered. Textured wallpaper is more high-end and can have a three-dimension design to make it more visually appealing.

If you want something upscale on the walls, consider adding wallpaper that is elegant and has decorative elements. You can also apply wallpaper to an accent wall to prevent the room from feeling smaller or too cluttered. Textured wallpaper is more high-end and can have a three-dimension design to make it more visually appealing.

Install Hanging Light Fixtures

A luxury item to add to your home is a light fixture, which can look more high-end than a ceiling fan and will become one of the main focal points in the room. The light fixture can illuminate the setting and can draw the eye upward, allowing the ceilings to look taller. Use a bulb with a soft glow to create a cozier environment.

Choose Metal Decor Pieces

Metal is one of the best materials to use to create a contemporary and modern design. Choose something with a metallic finish, which will look shiny and reflect the light. Gold and silver finishes look the most upscale and are beautiful when you use them throughout the room. Avoid using too many decor pieces with metal, which can look overly glam.

Incorporate a Few Statement Pieces

Removing clutter is key to creating an elegant setting that looks staged. Instead of leaving a lot of items out on display, selecting a few statement pieces can create a more upscale look. Choose items that are made in Italy to add European inspiration into the style of your home and create a well-curated environment.

Displaying an antique that is made in Italy will create more visual appeal. Scour local flea markets to find something that's a great deal and looks more high-end than what you paid.

Upgrade the Hardware

Upgrading the hardware throughout your home will instantly upgrade the design of the space. Replace the knobs on your doors and the pulls and handles on your dresser to make it look more expensive. Copper, crystal, and gemstone are high-end and unique to ensure you can customize the pieces you already own.

Use Velvet

When adding an accent chair in your living room or a headboard in the bedroom, consider selecting furniture items with velvet, which is soft and luxurious. The fabric feels soothing to touch and can add a rich touch. Velvet is one of the top fabrics and looks beautiful in blue color shades, which allow you to incorporate some color without cheapening the style of the room.

Add an Area Rug

Consider adding a large Italian area rug to tie all of the furniture together in the room and cover up bare floors. The rug will add a cozy touch and offer more warmth during the colder months of the year. Choose an Italian rug with a neutral color shade to ensure it blends in with the space and doesn't detract from the other furniture or decor on display.

Curved Furniture

One of the latest interior design trends is curved furniture, which adds a soft and cozy touch. The lack of sharp edges and smooth lines creates an asymmetrical profile for a more natural design.

Consider adding a curved accent chair in the corner of the room to fill in a bare spot and have more seating available.

Add Greenery

Bringing in a touch of the outdoors will create a cheerful and beautiful environment that doesn't look bland or too bare. Consider adding a silk olive tree in the corner of the room, which is easy to maintain and is a popular trend that has replaced fiddle leaf trees. You can also add a few small potted plants on the nightstands in your bedroom if you're looking for ideas on adding a green element.

Knowing the best ways to add a touch of luxury to your interior setting can transform the environment and make it feel like home. With a blend of modern and European elements, you can feel proud to show off the space and make it look regal. 

To shop online for the latest in luxury furniture, visit Venicasa.com.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Last Minute Gifts To Get Yourself

With Christmas days away, we buy presents for coworkers, friends, and pretty much everyone in the family. While your gifts to them are always spot on, the presents in return, not so much. So why not get the perfect gift for yourself, see some of our favorite ideas below.

The Hendrick’s High Wheel

ith the prevalence of home-based exercise equipment evolving into painfully efficient technological heights, Hendrick’s, the world’s most unusual gin, has released its very own HENDRICK’S HIGH WHEEL, just in time for the holidays – a delightfully intricate stationary pedaling device that offers a leisurely, pleasant alternative to the home workout devices on the market today.

DUER

Mid-rise with a slim fit through the hip, and slight taper at the hem. Feels like a sweat pant and looks like a pant. Natural TENCEL fibres offer breathable, and technical product with comfort.

Orion Skye

Step into your greatness and let the world experience your bold presence. With 160° LAT, your visibility is inevitable. The essence of your brilliant charisma is reflected in its intoxicating aroma. An earthy, spicy scent with uplifting fresh notes of citrus and lavender naturally combines with the smoky sophistication of amber and musk to leave a lasting, vivid impression.

CocuSocial

he desire for experience-type gifts has been on the rise, but in the world of social distancing, finding the perfect experience gift is harder than ever. As you begin to work on your holiday gift guides, I wanted to introduce you to CocuSocial, a platform giving individuals around the country an intimate opportunity to learn and cook alongside top chef – the perfect gift for the foodie in your life!

Feel more comfortable at home? CocuSocial offers a wide variety of virtual cooking classes, including new Master Series classes taught by world-renowned chefs. Looking to get out of the house? CocuSocial offers in-person classes in 15 cities across the country (with many of them now reopening), providing a unique, interactive cooking course experience. With CocuSocial taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of guests and chefs, people can feel at ease during their night out.

As a gifting option, people can purchase a spot in an upcoming course for someone special in their life or a gift card for an in-person or virtual course – selected priced gift cards come with a 20% bonus.

Truffolie

Created by ceramicist-turned-chocolatier Wendy-Dawn Wintcentsen, these one of a kind Caribbean inspired confections are ideal for holiday gifting this year, with shipping all over the U.S. and the globe.

Most notably featured in The New York Times, these sweet treats are made from 70% dark chocolate, providing you with a daily dose of antioxidants, probiotics, and flavonoids. And if you are looking to, support a small business NYC based while treating yourself or loved ones to a twist on a classic holiday gift, Truffolie is for you.

Love & Victory

Designed by Love & Victory, this new limited edition holiday card collection, inspired by classic Campari cocktails, is perfect for wishing a happy holiday to friends near and far. Each set of 8 cards and envelopes includes 2 cards each detailing the Boulevardier, Negroni, Negroni Sbagliato, and Americano, complete with the full recipe on the back.

Frescobaldi Castiglioni Chianti 2019

Favourable soil and climate make theCastiglioni Chianti a perfect reflection of the characteristics of its land. Made entirely of Sangiovese, with small quantities of Merlot, Castiglioni Chianti gave its best expression in the vintage 2019. This is an intensely fruity wine, it has a bright ruby-red colour with tinges of purple. The bouquet is rich with aromas of cherry, blackberry and wild strawberry followed by elegant Mediterranean scents. On the palate, its soft, elegant and vibrant taste is immediately apparent. The finish is intensely and pleasantly aromatic.

BACARDÍ Coquito

For those feeling festive, the limited edition, ready-to-serve BACARDÍ Coquito – returning for its second holiday season – or an easy homemade Holiday Coquito cocktail kit available via Cocktail Courier, are the perfect gift options to bring the magic of the famed Caribbean holiday beverage to the people. Reminiscent of eggnog on a tropical vacation, this traditional libation is one that guests and gift recipients alike will no doubt enjoy sipping on during holiday festivities.

Waldan Watch

HERITAGE “SPORTLINE” REF. 0196SB - JET BLACK

Inspired by 40 years of rich history and executed boldly with an oil pressed linear style dial, discover the new classic, but sportier. Built to last, crafted of the finest quality material components, individually hand assembled, rigorously tested in the United States and powered by a new generation of all metal American Made quartz movements, you’re sure to never miss a beat.

USD: $299.99

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

These Top Agents Share Their Favorite Gifts To Give

With the Holiday season quickly upon us, it’s time to make your list and check it twice. We asked several of the top-agents to share this year’s go-to client gifts, and have listed them below.

Grady’s Cold Brew

Top-seller Lisa K. Lippman loves her cold brew, especially when it is locally brewed in Brooklyn. She will be gifting this to her clients this year because who doesn’t need a little more caffeine?

Master Class

Joanne Greene and Nada Rizk will be gifting subscriptions to Master this year. With the winter ahead of us and heeding encouragement to limit in-person interactions, an online class is a great option.

Rose Box

18-year industry veteran Scott Harris will be gifting his clients a local favorite, long-lasting fresh flowers from Rosebox. Based in Manhattan, this is the perfect gift for New Yorkers who are looking to support small businesses during this holiday season.

Zagat's

Lisa Lippman also gifts the annual Zagat’s guide. Whether ordering in or enjoying outdoor dining, her clients love this iconic review of the city’s favorite delicacies.

Gift Cards

Also on the menu, NYC native Matthew Cohen will be gifting clients gift cards to his favorite restaurant in their neighborhoods. This often introduces a neighbor to a restaurant that is new to them and is sure to be a go-to for the years to come.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

What To Get The Skincare Aficionado This Holiday Season

Tis' the season to give the gift of relaxation and fun. These awesome products will make you the gift-giving MVP this year, and maybe help you find a new product to add to your daily beauty rituals.

RELATED: The Best Personalized Skin Care Brands

Lucky for you, we’ve tested more grooming products than we can count, and we have rounded up the best giftable variations of all of them. Pick up one of these gifts for the skincare aficionado in your life.

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AZUL MEDICAL / BLUE DIAMOND ANTI-AGING SYSTEM

Azul’s most transformative skin treatment system to fight the signs of aging, and restore skin to its former beauty. Consists of Enzyme Polish as an elegant exfoliator, Rejuva Gel Cleanser, Dermal C 20%, Vita A with Peptides and Growth Factor Renewal Cream.

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Shani Darden Facial Sculpting Wand $399

The first-of-its-kind Facial Sculpting Wand™ brings those age-defying benefits home, harnessing high-performance sound wave technology that targets wrinkles on a deeper level—2.4 inches below skin’s surface—while boosting circulation and optimizing skin’s oxygen uptake. The result? Firmer, tighter, smoother skin with each and every pulse. 

The Facial Sculpting Wand™ comes with everything you need to achieve visible results in relaxing 10-minute sessions: Facial Sculpting Wand, Disc Attachment, Precision Ball Attachment, Hydra Prep Gel, power plug, USB-C charging cable and detailed instructions. It’s self-care made state of the art. Limited Time Only: Receive a free deluxe sample of Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer with any Sculpting Wand purchase.

Lucky for you, we’ve tested more grooming products than we can count and read content on heaps of the best dermatologist websites, and we have rounded up the best giftable variations of all of them. Pick up one of these gifts for the skincare aficionado in your life.

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CULMINE MINI PEEL PADS 

Brightening, exfoliating & toning. Mini Peel Pads gently and effectively buffaway old cells to deeply exfoliate and brighten all skin types. A potentcocktail of lactic, glycolic, phytic, azelaic, and kojic acids acceleratesturnover, dissolves away unsightly impurities, and restores skin’s glow,visibly reducing signs of aging. Bearberry extract brightens naturally, whileretinol helps revive the skin’s natural renewal processes. Pre-moistened cottonpads can be used as a daily toner for most skin types. Results are dramatic;skin is refreshed, radiant, and renewed. (60 pads per jar)

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Embody

Embody is a women-owned, minority-owned, women led brand that launched with their Retinol Gummy in June during the pandemic and sold through inventory in just three weeks. They are replacing hundreds of skin care products with one simple tasty gummy.

By taking two per day, your skin will appear more evenly pigmented, texture is eliminated, and collagen production is increased resulting in more youthful looking skin to produce a luminous glow. A formula designed to provide a dewy glow, reduce blemishes, promote cell turnover, strengthen hair, skin, nails and prevent premature aging (inclusive of ingredients like Vitamin A, C, D3, E, Biotin, Folic Acid, B12 and more). Their goal is to simplify skincare (an all-in-one solution) and make it delicious.

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HOMMEFACE

ALL-IN-ONE TONER & MOISTURIZER

Too many steps? We've got you covered. HF All-In-One Toner & Moisturizer balances the skin's natural pH level and keeps it hydrated, moist, and smooth in texture.

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GAGE for Men Greener and Cleaner Set:

Description: GAGE for Men prepares every man, for anything and everything. This hair-care set includes their GAGE Daily Shampoo and Daily Conditioner--two amazing products that leaves the hair and scalp feeling extra fresh, clean and hydrated! A perfect gift for any man in your life!

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Bodhi Beverly Hills

Bodhi Beverly Hills, A unisex skincare line focused on effective and natural results for all humans, regardless of gender, offers a full skincare kit that includes ALL of the steps!

This best-selling (genderless) progressive skincare essentials kit features a powerful, yet gentle Dream/Beyond Daily Exfoliating Cleanser, a One/Decision One For All Cream that delivers intensive moisturize, and a cool and comforting Passion/Eye Anytime Cream that addresses dark circles, fine lines and puffiness around the delicate eye area.

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CLEARSTEM Clear Kit

Give the gift of glowing skin with CLEARSTEM skincare to cleanse, exfoliate, clarify and moisturize, leaving your skin brighter, tighter and smooth. This kit makes for the perfect stocking stuffer and contains four of the brand’s signature products.

Contents: GENTLECLEAN, VITAMINSCRUB, CLEARITY, CELLRENEW

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EO French Lavender Hand Cream

For soft hands try a product that is not hard on the environment! EO’s rich, nourishing hand cream combines botanical butters and oils with patented hydrating technology to restore skin’s softness even after a long day outdoors. With a calming lavender scent infused with floral, herbaceous and grassy notes this is the perfect gift to give to help them wind down and practice some skin TLC after a full day of adventure.

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Nuria Mini Brights Set

Give the gift of glowing complexion with this full Nuria experience to cleanse, treat and moisturize your skin so you can look, feel and be (merry) bright anywhere. This kit makes for the perfect stocking stuffer and contains four of the brand’s signature favorites tucked inside a cute travel cosmetic bag. All proceeds from this set will be donated to She’s the First, so you will be helping more than your loved one’s skin this holiday season.

Contents: Defend Skin Restoring Serum, Defend Triple Action Eye Cream, Hydrate Refreshing Micellar Water, Hydrate Moisture Replenishing Serum & a Travel Cosmetics Bag 

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ADALYS - Kadalys Nutritive & Radiance Oils 

From maskne to dull dryness, give the gift of revitalized skin with Kadalys - the eco-conscious beauty brand rooted in sustainable banana science. For the friend who has always dreamed of visiting Paris, Kadalys’ arsenal of clean skincare is the ultimate French girl beauty gift! Repair, nourish and protect dull skin with green and yellow banana bio-actives found in Kadalys’ Nutritive and Radiance Precious Oils. 

Have something you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

The Best Wines & Spirits To Gift This Holiday Season

Holiday gifting, something so simple to do, is also the hardest. While not everyone can be the most comfortable person to buy gifts for, a nice bottle is always a gift that will be enjoyed. Whether you’re unsure if someone is a wine lover or a gin aficionado, we search for the best bottle of wine and liquor to gift just about anyone over 21. Raise a glass and say cheers to the holidays.

Saddle Leather Maxi Bar $1,295 (Copy)

This piece is equipped with all your drinks cabinet essentials, ideal for dinner parties or as an exciting addition to a home bar. Inside the hinged lid, you'll find all the barware accessories you need to make your favorite drink. There are also four compartments for bottles of wine, or a spirit and mixer, two at the front and two at the rear.

Woodford Reserve 2020 Holiday Bottle by British architect Nick Hurst

Ahead of the holiday season, Woodford Reserve announces the release of its annual holiday bottle, which this year features the festive artwork by renowned UK-based architect Nick Hirst.

The one-liter bottles are on sale across the United States and the globe with a retail price of $49.99.

Hirst’s serene painting “Winter Slumber” captures the contrast between the warm, wooden interior of the historic warehouse at Woodford Reserve, and the stone exterior of the building. This snowy scene, recognizable to all guests who have visited Woodford Reserve over the last 24 years, celebrates the fact that whiskey ages year-around, regardless of weather.

imited-Edition Holiday Kit by Anwar Carrots & Grey Goose

With all of 2020’s challenges, the holidays are going to look a bit different this year. Whether it’s reimagining old traditions, or leaving some in the past, Anwar and Grey Goose are encouraging others to embrace the differences of this holiday season and celebrate only the best it has to offer.

With that spirit, Anwar is saying goodbye to the requisite ugly holiday sweater and breathing new life into the time-old outerwear tradition with a custom-designed crewneck. Emblazoned with Carrots’ signature orange accents and veggie logo, Anwar’s limited-edition holiday sweater will make you excited to skip the seasonal suit and tie. Exclusively available in the Grey Goose Limited-Edition Holiday Punch Kit feat. Anwar Carrots, the sweater comes complete with everything you need to celebrate in style at home, including custom drinkware and cocktail ingredients to batch Holiday Punch, such as signature bottles of vodka, prosecco, sweetened tea and pomegranate juice.

12 Days Of Christmas With Cos d’Estournel.

Esteemed Bordeaux winery, Cos d’Estournel, released its new Michel Reybier 20th Anniversary Case on October 20, 2020. The collector’s item pays homage to Cos d’Estournel’s owner, Michel Reybier, and his successful 20-year tenure with the centuries-old winery. The 12-bottle case includes two of the six best vintages released under his direction and an invitation for four guests to visit the winery for an extravagant lunch. 

“I am proud to say that year after year, the dedication of our teams and the quality of the work we carry out in the vineyard and the cellars have always paid off,” says Reybier. “It is a labor of love, one that requires patience, determination and precision, day in and day out, to bring our remarkable terroir to its fullest form of expression.”

Back in 2000, Reybier was taken with the estate’s history and found himself seduced by the idea that its chateau was entirely devoted to winemaking. Most of Michel’s investments over the last 20 years have been aimed at equipping the estate with the most advanced techniques possible. A selection of the 20th Anniversary Case vintages were made using the first-ever vinification cellar with a gravity system.

Rémy Martin XO

This  extra-old Cognac is  the  signature  of  our  Cellar  Master who uses his expertise to blend  up  to  400  eaux-de-vie from  the  two most-sought  after vineyards  of  Cognac -Petite  and  Grande  Champagne.   XO is  the ultimate expression of Fine Champagne and a tribute to our passionate commitment to time,  tradition  and  respect  of  the  land.  Serve Rémy Martin XO straight, with a large ice cube or in classic cocktails. $179.99

The Marvelous Ketel One Martini

Ketel One Vodka has partnered with Bushwig, purveyors of drag, love & unity, to bring marvelous moments to all when cheersing with a Ketel One Vodka cocktail this year. Inside your kit, you will find a special message from the Bushwig queens, demonstrating how to make the cocktail at home.

ABERFELDY 18 YEARS OLD ($130

Initially spending 18 years in a combination of refill casks, the whisky has undergone a finishing period of around 4-5 months in First-fill Pauilliac wine casks, a rich and complex red wine from Bordeaux. Stephanie carefully monitored maturation and flavor development in the casks until the desired flavor profile had been achieved. Pauillac is a robust wine, so the goal was to use this cask type to complement and elevate the signature character of ABERFELDY, not mask it. ABV 43%

Teremana Tequila

Available in Blanco ($29.99) and Reposado ($32.99), Teremana is made from mature naturally sweet agave slow roasted in small traditional brick ovens and distilled in handmade copper pot stills. The smooth finish of Teremana is meant to be savored one sip at a time or added into your favorite cocktail to give it a fresh flavor profile.

Personalization Emporium

Dewar’s gives people the option to add a thoughtful addition to their bottle through their Personalization Emporium. Customization is available to the Dewar’s 12 year, Dewar’s 15 and the 1.75L bottle of Dewar’s 12. Labels can be received through the mail just in time for the holidays when ordered.

The Personalization Emporium can be accessed through the link here.

Salcheto "NOBILE Vecchie Viti del Salco" Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2015 (SRP: $85)

This wine is made from the oldest vines of the Salco vineyard – with a vine age of over 30 years. The grapes are slightly overripe, and following fermentation in wood, it is aged for two years in botte and tonneaux barrels and another two years in bottle before release. This wine is dedicated to the Alliance Vinum project, the union of six great Vino Nobile producers, aimed at the growth of the Vino Nobile appellation. The 2015 vintage proved to be a year with a balanced climate for the territory, characterized by an extremely hot August which greatly calmed the acidities: the resulting wines are meaty and decidedly soft, “to eat and to drink.”

Mondoro Asti

Made from D.O.C.G. level White Moscato grapes, sourced from the Langhe hills of Piedmont. The taste is fruity with subtle herbal aromatics making it versatile to pair with sweet and savory foods.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Home Improvement Projects That Will Increase Your House's Value

If your kids have recently moved out of their childhood home, you are planning to sell in the near future, or you are looking for some projects to embark on, perhaps it is time to get started on a home improvement project or two that will increase your house's value. You can choose to work on many of these projects yourself, or you can hire a professional to attend to needs outside of your comfort zone.

Consider a Garage Door Replacement

How old is your garage door? Is it getting rusty, is it not working properly, or is its color outdated or covered in dirt? Perhaps it's time to consider a garage door replacement. With diligence, this project can take only one day to complete. You can purchase a garage door, a garage door kit, and other materials you will need to complete the project at a home improvement store. Be sure to enlist some help with removing the old door and installing the new one so you don't get hurt.

This project can cost up to $2,000 if you do it yourself, and you will likely get most of that back when you go to sell your home down the road. You can also choose a nice color for your new garage door that complements the colors, ambiance, and style of your home.

Finish Your Basement

Another project you can work on yourself is finishing your basement. If you use it as a space for storage, you can still do so once it's finished. For prospective buyers in the future, having a finished basement that allows a family to choose how it's used is a wonderful benefit that is highly sought in the real estate market.

Before you get to work, you may want to invest in a proper professional inspection for mold, moisture issues, and water issues. You don't want your basement to be contaminated or unable to hold in moisture after redoing it. Finishing your basement includes sealing the walls, installing foam board sheets, building the walls, and much more. Alongside research, you can find videos online to help you through this process. Since videos are growing to become one of the most popular ways of consuming content, with YouTube having over 2 billion visitors every month, there are dozens of basement DIY videos to follow. This project will take some time, so be prepared and perhaps enlist some help from a handy family member or friend.

Consider Building a Deck

Do you have extra space in your backyard? Consider building a deck to increase your home's value. Surely you and your family will enjoy time relaxing on it, too.

Building a deck can take anywhere from one week to one month depending on how big you want it, how much time you have each day to work on it, and how much help you can get building it. This job is labor-intensive and will require much attention to detail. The average cost of building a deck is between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on how large it is. However, you will gain much of it back when your home is sold in the future. Get an excellent and reliable concrete contractor in Orange County CA or somewhere near you to get it done beautifully. Many families seek decks for pools and for extra sitting space outside, so this project is well worth it.

Embark On a Minor Kitchen Remodel

14% of homeowners planned to make improvements to their kitchens in 2018. Are you next? A minor kitchen remodel costs a fraction of a full remodel, around $20,000, and will help increase your home's value. You can also expect to recoup about 70% of that cost after you sell your home in the future, making it a worthy investment.

First, consider repainting the walls and cabinets in your kitchen. This low-cost task can brighten the room and completely transform its look. If your kitchen cabinets are old, consider entirely replacing them. A new set will make your kitchen look great. Then, look into purchasing new, energy-efficient appliances for your kitchen. These simple projects will increase your home's value and transform the overall look of your kitchen for the better.

Deep Clean Your Home

A simpler project you can easily embark on is deep cleaning your home. This includes sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, and utilizing tools to reach and clean every corner of your house.

Another aspect of this project may include deep cleaning systems and appliances in your home, such as your oven, chimney, fireplace, and heat exchanger. If your oven isn't self-cleaning, it should be cleaned once every three months or so. Manufacturers suggest cleaning chimneys and fireplaces once a year and heat exchangers a minimum of once every five years. These pieces in your home are important to clean for the safety of your family and the overall health of your home.

Consider taking on one or two of these projects if you would like to increase the value of your home. Whether you plan on selling your house in the near or distant future, it's not a bad idea to get a head start on improving and adding onto parts of your home. Not only will future prospective buyers appreciate what these projects have to offer, but you will be able to enjoy them, too.

Interior Design Ideas You Need to Try in Your Apartment This Winter

If you love apartment life but you're not sure how to decorate your space for winter, you're not alone. It's tough to figure out how to decorate for the season when you don't have a ton of storage space or much license to make changes to your living space. If you want to learn how to create a cozy winter wonderland in your apartment this season, here are a few tips to help you out.

Hang Some Decorative Lights

Strings of twinkling lights are the perfect display of winter cheer. And it's relatively easy to place them in your apartment without damaging any of the walls or other fixtures, too. For instance, if you want to line an archway in your apartment with twinkling lights, all you'll need is a step stool and a few good stick-on wall hooks. These hooks don't require any drilling or hammering, so you can rest easy knowing that your security deposit will still be coming your way. And if you're feeling really festive, you could even invest in lights that blink or lights in colors that complement the rest of your decor. Just make sure that if you're one of the 38% of people who own a dog that you hang your lights out of their reach! Regardless of what color you choose, lights are an excellent way to bring some cozy winter vibes into your apartment.

Add Some New Throw Pillows

Throw pillows are an excellent way to add color and texture to your living space. And the best part? You can have as many as you want and your landlord can't tell you otherwise. If you're really short on space, it's possible to switch out your throw pillow covers instead of purchasing additional throw pillows to add to your collection. And since 44% of people use the internet to look for homes and home goods, a simple search online should help you find what you're looking for. If you're not sure what kinds of throw pillows will help you create a cozy feeling in your place, consider things like color and texture. A big, fuzzy throw pillow might look great paired with a smaller patterned pillow or a pillow with some nice texture on it. The key is to group your pillows together in a way that creates a variety of textures and colors that complement each other.

Invest in Some Decorative Candles

If you, like most Americans, move every five to seven years, it's likely that you don't have a lot of accessories to place around your home. But there's nothing wrong with picking up a few things here and there! Decorative candles and candle holders are a timeless piece of decor that can help any space feel cozy and luxurious during the holiday season. And one of the best things about these decorative candles is that they're typically not meant to be burned, which means no fire hazards for you. If you're feeling really creative, you can even purchase some candle-making equipment and create your own decorative candles. This way, you can make sure your candles are perfectly suited to your holiday style.

Decorating for the holidays is an awesome way to express yourself and make your space truly feel like your own. And even with a rented apartment, you can create a cozy winter wonderland.

Fashionable Home Trends are Making a Comeback in 2021

By Kiley Morrow

Attention Stuck-At-Home New Yorkers: Are You Bored with Your Space? - Here are Fashionable Home Trends Making a Comeback

Home trends in 2021 are throwing it way back. Back to when flappers reined and glitz and glamour lined the streets of NYC. Fortunately for bored homeowners and retro lovers, vintage inspired decor is making a major comeback. This time around, nobody cares if your decor perfectly matches the decade; instead, the real concern is if you're able to make these looks suit modern furniture and sensibilities.

Here are the top fashionable home trends to bring NYC’s old school character and glamour into your home in 2021.

What Is Retro? What is Vintage?

We're going to be focusing on these two terms, so it's essential to know the difference between them.  Retro is a stylistic choice.  This idea could mean the product was made this year, or it could tell it was made twenty years ago.  Retro things mostly care about appearance, and it didn't matter when they were made, just that they give off the look of a specific older era.

Vintage, on the other hand, focuses on furniture and items that are from bygone eras.  These were constructed when they were still popular and modern styles, and larger or more detailed products rarely last long enough to become vintage.

Both of these are making a massive comeback in 2020, and not in just one way!  The main eras that are in focus right now are the 1920s and 1970s!

Retro vintage decoration.

Retro vintage is a combination of the two and is a popular look to combine for the 1970s aesthetic.  When combined, most looks for this look purposefully faded with time.  Its pale ochres, muted tones in wallpapers, and furniture keep the same styles of the era in fabric.  This effect can be harder for the vivid colors of the 70s, but using the familiar shapes and hues that were popular then can pull it through.

Chic vintage decoration.

This look works better for the 1920s, although it can still work for the 1970s as long as you’re willing to put some work into maintaining it.  Chic is an elegant and stylish fashion term that’s often applied to clothing before anything else.  For the 1920s, that means leaning into the theatrical beautiful sleek lines of the era: tall, slender furniture, slick dark wood or tile flooring, and gold and other metals accents.

Industrial vintage decoration.

This style works for either era- and shows a side of them we aren't often presented in the media.  The great depression was at the tail end of the 20s and forced a lot of design and fashion to move to strict minimalism and industrial styles for many Americans.  In the 70s, there was also an economic crisis that changed style and set up the world for bright colors when money became more comfortable in the 80s.  These decor styles would be essential, minimal, and may encourage less rather than more.

Eclectic vintage decoration.

Eclectic vintage in modern times leans towards the farmhouse look.  In 2020, many people turned to lifestyles like cottagecore that helped them be at peace with the world being out of control.  This style meant baking more bread, enjoying more time outside in their yards, and growing foods from home to avoid going to stores as often.  In 2021 this style is going to evolve some into the interior design of some houses.  Expect a slight farmhouse look to come into play, lots of gingham and cute cluttered rooms of things that make the owners smile.

Shabby vintage decoration.

This style can be fun!  It looks its best when you have retro and vintage pieces mixed, and can allow your home to feel a little bit of the industrial vintage style without having to go so far on the minimalism side.  Shop around for furniture that matches what you like; you can compare Lovesac to different couch brands and find a style that suits your tastes or stop by one of NYC’s many weekly flea markets.  Shabby doesn't mean wrong or ruffed up furniture, just that you have some vintage looks mixed with modern.

Vintage dining room.

A vintage dining room is probably both the easiest and most expensive type of space to achieve.  This style is easy to buy, offering you the chance to layout gorgeous placemats, dishes, silverware, glasses, and furniture to catch the eye.  These vintage pieces are the easiest to find because they never really go out of style, and families took care of them the longest.  Look for details that have design features you enjoy, along with the ability to be used if that's your aim.  You can find gorgeous older tables, but if you want to save money, go for one with a little wear and tear and refinish it.

Vintage decoration.

Vintage decoration isn't for year-round use.  This idea will help highlight the look of your home in 2021.  It would help if you aimed to make the holidays special, using the decor to make your home stand out more and seem festive.  Classic Christmas ornaments, Hanukkah decor, and Halloween fun can be found on sites like Etsy and eBay.  If you aren't sure you want to invest in these or are scared you'll break them, you can buy inexpensive remakes, so if they get shattered, they're only a couple years old instead of fifty or a hundred.

2021 is going to be a year of trying to bounce back and giving ourselves everything we deserve.  It's been a rough year, and the world is hoping that the next one will be easier.  If the retro and vintage looks aren't what you want for your home, don't worry!  It's never a wrong choice to decorate your house in a way that makes you happy.  Find your style, and don't let go!  Just make sure to stick to one theme to avoid clutter, and have fun with it.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

A Green Experience for New York City

Caroline Fiske

The Global design firm WATG has an urban planning solution that helps New York City “go green.” This plan emphasizes the unforeseen positives during the pandemic. Even though this hasn’t been announced yet, the concept was recognized by Urban Design Forum as a light at the end of the tunnel for their "City Life After Coronavirus" series. This series focuses on the organizations and communities in the city that have been most impacted by the coronavirus.

Another example on how the city is aiming to improve itself for the future is the "Green Block," It is a project on how leading urban planners, landscape architects, and designers could use their skills, and lessons learned from the pandemic, to help transform urban spaces into an even better living space post-pandemic.

The multidisciplinary global design firm WATG rolled out the Green Block idea inspired by John Goldwyn. He is WATG’s London-based master planner and landscape architect. He was also a part of the “Green Block” project. This concept allows for a green, carless, alfresco-hopping, and streetscape vision for New York City. According to Goldwyn, “Our cities have long been overdue for transformation and, as some people flee for greener landscapes in the wake of COVID-19, Green Block proves that you don’t need to sacrifice one for the other – we actually can, have both the urban and the green lifestyle.”

“Green Block” focuses on the intersection of Manhattan’s Flatiron Building, which is an iconic symbol for the city itself. “Green Block” reclaims the city we love for the people and the environment.

“Green Block” was built using a modular program that transforms city streets into green spaces made from 100% recyclable materials. “Green Block” not only adds greenery to existing cafes and shop fronts but it creates untapped revenue opportunities for retail, commerce, and restaurants, it also helps clean the city’s air while beautifying streetscapes.

“Green Block” brings many values to cities. It serves as a breathable solution to air filtration by decreasing car noise, decreasing air pollution, providing homes for the decreasing bee population, and increasing the amount of space for people to exercise and leisure. This solution provides more opportunities for cyclists and walkers, it replaces paved footpaths with lush plants, and it increases outdoor spaces for restaurants and retail stores. Restaurant operators can also use their new outdoor space to grow vegetables, herbs, or fruits to serve on their menus.

Goldwyn says, “People who are all too often disconnected from nature should be allowed respite on their streets. The pandemic tapped into an underrepresented desire in urban dwellers to connect with nature. That desire is a human right, and the city needs to address it. Green Block is in the best interest of New Yorkers and New York City’s standing in the world.”

WATG is currently working with confidential landowners in the United Kingdom to deploy “Green Block” on various streets in London. It was founded in 1945 and they are currently celebrating its 75th anniversary. WATG one of the world’s leading design firms specializing in hospitality, entertainment, gaming, and commercial residential design. Its interior design firm Wimberly Interiors is ranked in the Top 20 by Interior Design Magazine.

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Our Favorite New York City Parks

August in the city basically means, well, to put it simply…you shouldn’t be there in the first place. If you’re not lounging around in the Hamptons, vacationing at your Connecticut estate, or traveling abroad, you’re probably still stuck riding the subway in 100-degree heat and being dripped on by AC units in doorways on your walk to work. The struggle is real, and it’s time to put an end to it. Good news is there are plenty of outdoor spots within the city that will quickly transport you to luscious suburbia, if only for the afternoon.

Central Park

A true classic. Head to Sheep Meadow for an afternoon picnic and spread out your towels to soak in the rays. Join countless other sunbathers playing Frisbee and socializing on the pristine green lawn, and don’t forget to bust out your favorite tunes of the summer while you do so.

Bryant Park

Behind the New York Public Library. Ever the source of free entertainment, Bryant Park remains a go-to spot for the arts and cultural activities. It’s extremely popular for its Monday night outdoor movie showings and is always bustling with life.

Washington Square Park

The place to people-watch. An iconic Greenwich Village landmark, this park is teeming with vibrant personalities. People can be spotted reading a novel, writing a philosophy thesis, sketching in notebooks, or hopelessly flipping their skateboards at all corners of the park. Musicians and artists flock here, as the park’s very existence oozes creativity and innovation.

The High Line

Basic, but worth it. While it’s relatively new in comparison, this outdoor walkway of the West Side has skyrocketed in popularity with its picturesque courtyard of plants and sculptures, even housing lounge chairs for relaxation. There’s also a food court to satiate the appetite after your leisurely afternoon stroll in the sun.

Prospect Park

A Brooklyn gem. This park was created by the same masterminds who designed Central Park, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. It offers plenty of green space and a peaceful escape from the city’s mayhem. There are wetlands, forests, and meadows to be discovered in this 526-acre expanse, among many other attractions.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Where To Workout In The Hamptons

Gyms and indoor fitness centers may not be open  and may not be the safest option these days, but the Hamptons are offering outdoor classes that follow CDC guidelines so you can stay on top of your workout routine! From cycling class to group workouts, the Hamptons has everything you need to get a good workout outside.

SoulOutside by SoulCycle

SoulCycle is a company that offers cycle classes to members of the Soulcycle community. With many different classes for you to choose from in Bridgehampton, Water Mill, Montauk, Southampton, and more, you can take a class outside with your favorite instructor. Soulcycle has benches set up for easy shoe fitting and access to restrooms and changing rooms. To reserve a time, go on the SoulCyle website.

We kicked off the first-ever SoulOutside series in the Hamptons this weekend, with the help of our partners at @flow ☀️Tap the link in bio ⬆️ for more information (including how to book your bikes, and the latest updates to our new Soul Standard of safety), and let us know where we should bring SoulOutside next ⬆️💛

One Ocean Yoga - Bridgehampton, NY

Sound immersion allows the body to #rebalance it's own frequency back to a natural state of being. Warm the body up with light #yoga before receiving the mass benefits of #soundbathing located within the #channingdaughterswinery #bridgehampton $30 in Advance, $35 Day of . #thehamptons #outdoorevent #gongingevents #outeast #li_pulse #hamptonslife #yogagarden #healingsounds #healing #goodvibes

Located on the Channing Daughter’s Winery, One Ocean Yoga offers yoga classes overlooking the beautiful views of the winery. During the Covid-19 pandemic the classes are limited to 20 people, reservations are required, and you need to provide your own mat and equipment. These yoga classes are perfect for a relaxing workout with breathtaking views of the Hamptons.

Fhitting Room - East Hampton, NY

Start your weekend off with a FHIX as we take our signature HIIT classes outdoors ☀️! We're taking up residence at @clubhousehamptons with @erocfitness teaching this Saturday, July 18th, at 8:45am and 10am for a #FreshAirFHIX. Hit the link in bio to sign up!

Fhitting Room HIIT classes are taking over The Clubhouse Hamptons outdoor space and offering HIIT (high intensity interval training) classes on Saturdays in East Hampton. The classes are by reservation only and no equipment is required.

Barry’s Bootcamp - Southampton, NY

Floor workouts outside? Barry’s Bootcamp has you covered! Each class is 50 minutes long providing weights and bands that are safely cleaned for you to use during your workout. Masks must be worn throughout the class and headphones will also be provided for use of the ‘silent disco’ sound system.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or email at Jeremy@offthemrkt.com to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.