Style Tips for Apartments With Exposed Brick

If you live in NYC, there’s a chance your apartment might come with the rustic, industrial charm of exposed brick. While many people seek out apartments with exposed brick because of the aesthetic design, you may also stumble upon an exposed brick apartment by chance.

Whether you’ve sought out your exposed brick palace or you’ve found a gem without even trying, you may be wondering how to style your place in accordance with your taste and the features of your place. While everyone has their own style, there are a few universal tips that can work with nearly any apartment.

Stunning Examples of Brick in NYC

Need some inspiration? These New York listings make historic brick look chic with beautiful design elements.

This Tribeca loft condo masterfully blends its historic origins with modern design. The combination of red brick and white walls helps maintain a minimalist feel without ditching the charm of historic masonry. The trick with this space is to keep colors balanced so they don’t overwhelm the space — the brick is a focal point!

This studio in Greenwich Village pairs an exposed brick wall with hardwood floors and stainless steel appliances. Tall ceilings and large windows keep the space bright and airy, even with masonry incorporated.

Looking at the beauty of these listings, it’s no surprise that brick is so popular with New York properties. Here are some tips for styling your exposed brick apartment, wherever you are.

Keep It Exposed

If you want to highlight your exposed brick wall, one of the best ways to do that is by making sure it’s visible. While it’s possible to keep the wall completely blank, that isn’t always the best solution for liveability — especially if you live in a small space and you might need to put things against the wall. You can try minimal furniture and even open-backed shelving to do the trick.

Go Big With Art

Sometimes, one of the best ways to draw attention to a wall is to use a focal point. Sure, a brick wall can act as its own focal point, but if you assign a large painting or poster to the wall, that can enhance the style and really draw the eye, creating balance.

Add Pops of Color...

Adding pops of color is a common design tip, even for those working with a standard space. However, especially when it comes to historical features like exposed brick or vintage hardwood, the place often feels like it has its own established color palette before you stock it up with anything at all.

That being said, adding accent notes — often in brighter hues to liven up the place — can be a great way to style an exposed brick wall according to your taste.

...Or Go Neutral

That being said, not everybody loves vibrant hues. In fact, that predetermined color palette could be a perfect jumping-off point for your home.

If you love neutral colors like tans, beiges, whites, off-whites, and even some of the neutral-adjacent colors like olive green and mauve, why not go for an entire neutral spectrum? It might leave your brick wall looking exactly at home.

Protect It!

Sure, it isn’t your brick wall if you’re renting, but it still is your brick wall for a time. And keeping it protected from cracks and damage can make sure it still looks beautiful no matter how long you stay in your current dwelling.

In addition to refraining from drawing on it or chipping it, another great thing to remember is that brick is a porous material, and moisture can harm it by causing corrosion. Make sure you practice good moisture control habits as best you can.

Plants Can Introduce a Natural Feel

One of the best aesthetic choices to come about in the past few years is that rustic blend of industrial and natural that you may have seen all over Pinterest.

While many people have their own take on this style, introducing plants into your space — preferably close to the brick wall — can utilize that same balance of natural and industrial. Plus, if you live in a city, you may be excited to bring some green around!

Do Some Reflection

If you want to open up your space a bit more with some functional decor, getting a big mirror — or even a full-body mirror — to hang on or against your brick wall can be a great stylistic choice, as well as a functional one. 

Mirrors open up any space and reflect light, while also not introducing too many new design elements or colors into your space. This helps prevent your brick walls from feeling to dark or oppressive, especially in an otherwise small space.

Resist the Urge to Paint

You’ve seen it because we’ve all seen it. The monochrome black or white painted brick wall. It can be tempting to slather on a layer of paint, especially if you want your brick wall to match your color scheme. 

However, getting paint off a brick wall can be a grueling process — and one that’s not entirely worth it if you plan on moving out or if you don’t own the space yourself. This one might be a better choice to remain on the mood boards.

Styling Exposed Brick in Your Apartment

Exposed brick can be a great feature to look for — or find naturally — in an apartment. And whether your style is bohemian, industrial, modern, or something a bit in between, you can find the best ways to style your apartment your own way.

About the Author:

Evelyn Long is a real estate writer and editor. She manages Renovated, a web magazine for renters, buyers and professionals. She’s also contributed to Rental Housing Journal, National Association of REALTORS®, and other online publications.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Last Minute Gifts To Get This Father's Day

You've put your old man through a lot during your time on this planet. And the poor old guy has always been there for you, no matter how big of an asshat you were. Don't you think that he deserves a reward? With Father’s Day coming up let's skip the sad tie this year, OK? Instead, let's get something that your dad will actually love and—who knows?—actually get some use out of.

Playstation 5

He’s been trying to get one since November, give the gift of gaming to your cool Dad.

Infamous Swim

Mom and babes have their matching swimwear but what about Dad? Infamous Swim is famous for twinning swimwear that is so adorable with their Mini Swim collection as well as offering matching options for Dad! Infamous carries an array of styles for Mom, Dad & littles, plus matching accessories! The best part is their mission to embrace the body you have and bring awareness to body positivity no matter your size, stage in life, you name it.

Electrolytes Powder Packets - Blueberry Lemonade

Nakedade starts with Palatinose™ (isomaltulose), a low-glycemic smart carb derived from sugar beets. We isolate the sucrose from sugar beets, and remove any potentially harmful fructose and glucose. Palatinose™ improves fat oxidation and provides a steady supply of energy to increase exercise endurance.* 285 mg of potassium in Nakedade helps you stay hydrated and replenish electrolytes lost through sweat.

Vessel

This stunning vape pen battery combines real walnut wood (which means every piece is unique) and slate anodized aluminum for a visually stunning appearance.

Cardiff Inhalables

Single-source, premium hemp extract vape cartridges with a near 1:1 ratio of CBD and CBG and other notable minor cannabinoids (CBN, and CBC) provides you with specific varietals of terpenes and cannabinoids to deliver optimum effects.

Naturally derived Menthol terpenes deliver a delicate balance of energy and focus. Subtle hints of peppermint produce a cool, stimulating effect. 

Salcombe Gin 'Rosé Sainte Marie'

Salcombe Gin 'Rosé Sainte Marie' is an 'all -natural' pink gin that is delicate, fresh and truly exquisite. Inspired by the flavours of the Mediterranean and blended with naturally soft water. Double Gold Medal Winner at the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition - The World's only dry pink gin to be awarded this accolade. Distilled and crafted using the finest Macedonian juniper berries to provide structure in the background, partnered with a natural, but not overpowering soft sweetness from strawberries and angelica. Salcombe Gin 'Rosé Sainte Marie' has a 'natural pink hue' from unsweetened red fruits and is hand crafted with no added sugar, artificial colorings or flavorings.

Agua Bucha x Mother Kombucha

Kombucha loving Dads will love this first-ever creation by Mother Kombucha -- sparkling water infused with kombucha! Agua Bucha comes in delicious flavors like Meyer lemon, grapefruit, and key lime while incorporating naturally occurring organic acids and B vitamins from the kombucha. At only 4 calories and 1 gram of sugar per can, it’s a yummy way to switch out boring old water from time to time.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

Rare Wines And Spirits To Get Dad This Father's Day 2021

When it comes to Father’s Day, a good drinkwill always be his first choice. While he may have his favorite on hand wines and an inventory that keeps bringing you home, Father’s Day is the time to give something truly rare for his top-shelf. Not sure what is worthy? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered with the perfect gift to bring to Dad.

Germain-Robin XO

Germain-Robin XO is an icon of California Brandy. Distilled exclusively in Pruhlo Charentais Pot Stills and aged in Limousin Oak Barrels, XO highlights the unique flavor and characteristics of California Pinot Noir grapes.

The high-quality California wine grapes in Germain-Robin XO showcase unique flavors and layered textures. The signature grape, Pinot Noir, provides a dark cherry character and a rich silky mouthfeel. Colombard distillate adds a fresh apple character while Semillon provides richness with peach and apricot notes. The balance of both fruit and oak flavors is unique to Germain-Robin XO. The vanilla and toast flavors from the French oak complement the fruit which creates layers of complexity that only can be found from sourcing great fruit. 

Moët & Chandon Nectar Impérial Rosé

A bright coral color with intense rose golf reflections. On the nose, the intense fruitiness of mature red fruits, strawberry soup, raspberry and pomegranate balance notes of sweet spices (vanilla, brown sugar) and hints of fresh mint.

Stags’ Leap Winery’s 2018 The Investor Napa Valley Red Wine

Finding the perfect Father’s Day gift can be tough, especially for the dad who has “everything.”  To make shopping easier for your readers, I’d love to recommend a classic wine that’s sure to impress every vino-loving dad! While many celebrated Father’s Day over Zoom or FaceTime last year, toasting with Dad in person on June 20th will make for the ultimate gift. Stags’ Leap Winery’s 2018 The Investor Napa Valley Red Wine (SPR $60) complements any Father’s Day celebration and beyond as summer nears and outdoor entertaining with more loved ones becomes possible.

Plush and inviting, this red blend is the ultimate crowd pleaser. Expressive notes of blackberry, black currant, macerated blueberries, and wild black plum are joined by baking spice notes of cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, and clove. Whether Dad chooses to drink immediately or cellar it for a few years, he’s sure to love every rich, mouthwatering sip.

Dom Pérignon Vintage 2010

Perfect for a summer Father’s Day gathering, the luminous sweetness of tropical fruit – green mango, melon, pineapple – instantly shines in the 2010 vintage. The vintage pairs excellently with light fish or poultry dishes as they both complement the wine’s tingle of orange zest and the mist of a mandarin orange.

Mijenta Tequila

For $118.98 (shipping included), customers will receive both expressions of the tequila and an exclusive invite to a live tasting with co-founder and awarded mixologist Juan Coronado and preeminent Maestra Tequilera Ana Maria Romero, streaming on Father’s Day at 5pm ET. Gift dad with something he can savor and let Juan and Ana guide you through the perfect celebration.

The specialty package can be purchased here and all orders placed on or before June 10th will receive the bottles in time for Father’s Day. 

Father’s Day is particularly special to Mijenta, as a company whose ethos is built around the idea of family and community -- Mijenta is a variation of mi gente, meaning my people. The agave used to create Mijenta is harvested by jimadores such as Don Jose Amezola Garcia, a third generation jimador, and his son, Jose Enrique Amezola. Don Jose learned the craft from his own father when he was 17 years old. After 25 years of harvesting, Don Jose dedicates himself mostly to the care of the agave fields, building on a vast knowledge of the location of the best parcels and giving the plants the care that they require. One of his six children, Jose Enrique, has taken on the family tradition. Mijenta is dedicated to supporting the father-son duo and ensuring the continuation of their craft. 

BACARDÍ Gran Reserva Diez

For the fancy Dad who likes his spirits extra-aged, we recommend BACARDÍ Gran Reserva Diez. A master blender’s reserve, BACARDÍ Gran Reserva Diez is barrel aged for a minimum of ten years. Best enjoyed neat or on the rocks, this bottle has a dark golden hue that boasts bright notes of banana, pear and tropical melon balanced with caramelized vanilla and oak, resulting in a premium rum with complex flavors your Dad is sure to enjoy.

SIMI Winery’s Landslide Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

The SIMI 2016 Landslide Vineyard Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (SPR $50) is a youthful and elegant red, with notes of toasty oak, a blend of violets, blackberry, chocolate, cassis, and bramble berry on the palate. The complexity of this Cabernet continues to integrate flavors and aromas overtime, giving way to savory and dense flavors of dried blueberry and dark cocoa.

Gin XII

A rich and flavorful dry gin produced in the South of France at Distilleries et Domaines de  Provence, Gin XII (86 proof) is the new and distinguished addition to the American spirits  landscape. Gin XII is distilled from 12 plants and spices - hence the symbol XII, which reads  twelve from the ancient Roman Numeral system. The majority of these ingredients are  harvested in Provence, making the gin a true and authentic expression of this region. 

Distilleries et Domaines de Provence has distilled plants and spices for over 120 years -since its  foundation in 1898 - leading to the production of some of the most acclaimed herbaceous spirits  on the market like Absente absinthe and Henri Bardouin Pastis.

Joseph Phelps Vineyards 2017 Insignia

Storied Napa Valley winery Joseph Phelps Vineyards released their flagship 2017 Insignia Bordeaux-influenced red blend September 2020. This is perfect touch for dads with an appreciation for the finer things. This vintage opens in the glass with heady aromas of mocha, cedar, roasted espresso, blueberry, and ripe plum.

Italicus Rosolio Di Bergamotto Liqueur

This premium Italian liqueur puts the bergamot orange fruit into the spotlight. Crafted with Calabrian bergamot and a selection of Italian botanicals, this citrusy and floral premium liqueur is based on an 1850s recipe.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

5 Styling Tricks That Make a Small Apartment Feel Bigger

Good things come in small packages and we happen to think this holds true for homes as well. Small apartments can have big potential and, with the right styling tricks, they can feel just as calm and comfortable as bigger homes. 

Here are some of our favorite ways to make the most of small spaces. 

Choose colors that feel expansive

The color palette you select for your home will have a major impact on how the space feels. We love dark colors for creating a cozy, intimate space, but if you’re looking to make a small apartment feel bigger, it’s best to steer clear of them. You’re better off choosing light, cool colors, as they have the effect of opening up a room, making the ceiling seem higher and the corners deeper. 

Here’s an insider tip. Paint chips don’t tell the whole story of how a color will look in all its glory on a wall. Many people have chosen what they think is a light, subtle color based on a chip only to find it is much darker and more dramatic when it is applied from floor to ceiling.  

Instead of taping up paint chips to your wall to test how they’ll look, get small samples from the store (they usually cost less than ten dollars) and paint a 12” by 12” patch on your wall. This will give you a better sense of what it will feel like to live with the color. 

Make use of multi-functional furniture

Since even a small amount of clutter or excess items can make a small apartment feel cramped and messy, it’s key to be intentional about the furniture you choose. One of the best ways to make sure you’re getting the most out of your furniture choices is to go for pieces that can be used in multiple ways. For example, ottomans that double as storage give you somewhere to put your feet (or additional seating) as well as secret places to stash blankets, magazines, or whatever you want to keep close at hand but out of view. 

Another smart strategy is to look for seating options that you can configure in different ways. Find furniture you like in order to open up a ton of possibilities for arranging the room in different ways. The great thing about modular seating is that all the pieces match, so whether they’re assembled into one large piece or scattered around the room as separates, the room still feels polished and put together. 

Get reflective with mirrors 

This tip is nothing new. But it has stood the test of time because it works. Putting mirrors in a small space instantly increases the sense of volume by reflecting light and objects, making everything feel twice as big. 

There are lots of different ways you can make use of mirrors. A classic approach is to mount a large framed mirror on the wall with the most surface area. You can also simply stand a framed mirror against a wall to achieve the same room-widening effect. 

If you want to get creative, choose a coffee table or end table with a mirror for its top surface, or create your own by simply placing a beveled plate mirror on top of an existing table. Mirrored mobiles or chandeliers are another stunning way to add elegance to a room while adding the illusion of space. 

Reach for new heights

You’re missing out on a lot of decorating potential if you don’t look up to the top third of your apartment. You can make a space feel much bigger by drawing attention to the height of the room. 

Put up wallpaper that has a vertical stripe motif (taking care to remember the importance of color choice and subtlety) or hang artwork that draws the eye upward. A floor-to-ceiling bookshelf will also emphasize the grandeur of a room by creating visual interest above eye level. 

Reconsider curtains and rugs

What you decide not to include in your space can be just as important as what you do include. If you’re going for airy and spacious, curtains and rugs should probably be in the former category. While they do add flair and character to a room, they also tend to add visual clutter, which is magnified in close quarters. 

To cover your windows, vertical or horizontal blinds will do the trick and have the added benefit of drawing up or to the side neatly and more or less out of sight. 

The same goes for rugs. They do have a place in the world of home decor, just not in rooms where the goal is to open up space, not fill it in. A small accent rug here and there can be a nice touch, but anything more than that will start to take over the room.

Final thoughts

Now more than ever, it’s important that our homes beplaces where we can relax and feel at ease. Small apartments are an exciting design challenge that, when handled well, feel just as spacious and airy as much bigger spaces, and provide that much-needed sanctuary from the stress of the world.

Have a listing you think should be featured contact us or submit here to tell us more! Follow Off The MRKT on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook.

The Thompson Hotel, The Most Luxurious Spring Holiday In DC

Annabella Pardo

Is there a more beautiful city for Spring than the lovely Washington D.C? With the gorgeous Cherry Blossom season around the corner, there is no better time to explore our nations capital than with a brilliant trip and a refreshing cocktail in hand at a luxe hotel bar.

After a long year of staycations in our cozy living rooms, we are more than excited to book a first class ticket and pack our suitcases with the cutest Spring assemble. This Spring, meet us at this magnificent and luxurious, The Thompson Hotel in Washington D.C.

The Thompson Hotel offers a refined historic beauty tale in their immaculate architecture and interior. Through a unique observation of any of their 225 rooms, a guest will find echoes of the colonial past, from soft, curving tables evoking a ship’s cabin to the rigid symmetrical lines framing the windows overlooking the dazzling river.

A brand new swanky rooftop bar? We'll grab our designer heels. Renowned restaurateur Danny Meyer brings his signature hospitality to D.C. with Maialino Mare, a fine-dining, Roman-style trattoria and Anchovy Social, the stunning open-air rooftop bar with elevated takes on classic cocktails and shareable snacks.

For this Spring, The Thompson's Cherry Blossom package includes Capital Bike Share passes to cycle to the iconic Tidal Basin. Once in the lawn, enjoy your basket of picnic goodies hand selected from the hotels top chefs, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the blossoms. After a beautiful day of gallery hopping and sight seeing, it is time for a personalized happy hour, relax with an in-room Cherry Blossom beverage flights. 

The Thompson Washington DC is situated in the heart of the historic Navy Yard, D.C.'s hippest and bustling neighborhood. View breathtaking scenes of the glistening waterfront, Nationals Park, and Anacostia Riverwalk Trail from the luxury accommodation. In the Navy Yard, visitors can find restaurants like Chloe, Due South, Bluejacket Brewery, coffee shops, as well the local District Winery. Delicious! We are more than thrilled for our luxurious trip.

Thompson Washington DC, 221 Tingey Street SE

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.

Natural Wood Is Making a Comeback in Interior Design

There are so many different interior design trends that come and go as the years pass. While natural wood has been around for a long time, this might be the year for it to make a serious comeback in both traditional and modern New York residences.

The beauty of the most classic design trends is that they can evolve to fit various tastes. And while everyone has their own style that might swing differently with natural woods, there are so many ways it can work well. Here are some of the reasons why natural wood is making a comeback in interior design.

1. Earthy Vibes

One way that natural wood can truly shine in any home is by going back to those youthful, bohemian, earthy vibes. Whether you had your boho phase in college or you’re still deep in it, natural wood can bring a sophisticated, earthy feel to any room.

From furniture to floors, the neutral tones and unique washes of natural woods can bring any space together and make it feel even more connected to nature. For example, take this luxury SoHo residence, which incorporates floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall natural wood cabinetry. The residence softens modern sharp angles with a grounded, natural feel.

2. Vintage Design

Maybe you don’t want to take things all the way back to the earth, but you do want to bring in a bit of vintage charm. If that’s the case, natural wood might be worth looking into.

While furniture and fixtures play big roles in this, natural wood flooring can set the foundation for every vintage direction — from Victorian to mid-century modern. If you can find original flooring or real vintage furniture, that’s even better.

One of the best ways to incorporate natural wood in a vintage style is to mix and match different pieces throughout your home. For example, if you're interested in adding a rustic touch, you might want to view barn style doors that can easily bring that classic, warm feel to any space. You may also add vintage light fixtures or use reclaimed wood for shelving and accents.

The Philip House condos in Carnegie Hill are the perfect example of vintage inspiration in action. This prewar building is renovated for modern use, but still incorporates natural wood flooring and cabinetry evoke a timeless feel.

3. Organic Color Palette

For those who love neutral, organic color palettes, natural wood might be exactly what you need. 

If you tend to go for minimalist black-and-white tones in your usual decor, bringing in some natural wood can add some dimension without overpowering your creative vision. This can be seen in popular trends embracing natural touches like interior barn doors or natural wood kitchen cabinets.

If you tend to veer more towards a varied neutral color palette, natural woods can even add a bit more depth to what you already have in your home. Neutrals are the hot new thing, so it makes sense to add to the subtle and sophisticated look.

4. Artistic Shapes

If you’re going more neutral in the color department, there are plenty of areas where you can suddenly play — even if you didn’t realize it before. One of the areas you can begin to explore is shape and texture.

Usually, color and color design dominates a room, especially if you tend to go bright and bold. But when you’re leaning into natural woods and neutral colors, you can go for more interesting furniture shapes, layer textures on top of one another, and even mix and match. Features like exposed beams and original molding can shine when you go for a more natural look.

5. Comfortable and Cozy

One thing that it’s important to keep in mind is the comfort factor, which happens to be another area where natural wood totally shines.

Natural wood is subdued but also cozy and warm. Not only are the features of each wood unique and personal, but they also offer a bit of a rustic feel that’s perfect for those looking to bring a bit of comfort into their home. For example, if your home is bright and minimal but feels a bit cold, natural wood can bring in the bit of warmth you need.

6. Natural Wood’s Natural Comeback

While many people still love the minimal chic looks that have been popular in recent years, natural wood is all about comfort and sophistication. While natural wood can add to a space that embraces minimal design, it can also create a warm, homey, and vintage feel if that’s what you like. If you are wondering how you can add wood design to your new home, check out Forever Home's guide.

No matter your taste, natural wood may just be able to do a lot for your home, whether you find gorgeous vintage floors or fall in love with a piece you just can’t live without. Do you enjoy a vintage, earthy, or neutral style the most?

About the Author:

Evelyn Long is a real estate writer and editor. She manages Renovated, a web magazine for renters, buyers and professionals. She’s also contributed to Rental Housing Journal, National Association of REALTORS®, and other online publications.

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.

4 Fixture Additions that Can Increase Your Home’s Value

Everyone wants to add beauty to their home. Renovations are always an excellent way for homeowners to add their personal touch to their living space. Whether creating shelving as a fun DIY project or putting on a new paint job for the home office, homeowners enjoy showing their creativity while enhancing their house’s appearance.

There are even more extensive options for home additions that you can use, which may increase a home’s real estate value. If you’re selling your home soon, or just want to add to its market value for the future, fixtures are an excellent option. Keep in mind that the kitchen and bathroom are important areas in any home. Ensuring comfort and style in these areas is always important. A stylish renovation can offer practical and visually pleasing improvements to these spaces. Whether you're considering a Cupertino bathroom renovation or any other area, upgrading with quality fixtures can greatly enhance your property's overall appeal and value. Whether you’re looking to redesign your kitchen or to upgrade your windows with between the glass blinds, here are four fixture additions that can increase your home’s value.

1. Small Additions to the Bathroom

Fixtures are different from other home additions. Home entertainment upgrades, such as a new TV or surround sound system, can come with you after a potential move-out. Fixtures, on the other hand, are permanently attached to the ceiling, floor, or walls. However, this provides the potential benefit for fixture enhancements to raise the value of your home.

Bathrooms are one of the most essential rooms in any house. You can start here with your fixture additions. However, you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars on new renovations or other upgrades. Simple bathroom fixtures such as attaching a brass or steel towel rack to the wall can provide a great appearance. 

Other minor additions or replacements you can do in the bathroom yourself include:

• Installing a new shower door

• Attaching a vintage medicine cabinet to the wall

• Replacing your old bathroom faucet

• Affix more stylish mirrors above the sink

In just a day or two, you could have a fully-upgraded bathroom. It may even cost less money than you think, while also raising your home’s property value.

2. Upgrade Your Window Treatment

Perhaps you have the same blinds on your windows that you’ve had for years. Or maybe your windows themselves need some improvement. Now might be the perfect time to think about upgrading the window treatment in your home.

You’ll first want to take down your old window coverings. It’s best to use a screwdriver for this step. Make sure you have a tape measure. You’ll need specific measurements for the length and width of your new window treatment. You can usually round off to the nearest 1/8 of an inch.

In terms of choosing your new window treatment upgrade, it depends on your specific style. Vertical blinds are an excellent option for large windows or sliding glass doors. This lets the blinds filter light and enhances the height of the room. Shades, meanwhile, are another worthwhile selection. They’re highly versatile and come in a variety of materials. Roman and honeycomb shades are two great examples. Alternatively, however, you could choose to opt for residential window tinting in Carrollton or wherever you are located. This option is beneficial if you're looking to reduce glare, improve privacy, and add value to your home in one sleek solution that offers long-term benefits.

No matter your choice, upgrading your window treatment can add some flair to your rooms. Installing these fixtures, or having a professional do it for you, can help raise your home’s value too.

3. Replace Outdated Kitchen Appliances

Let’s face it: doing an entire remodeling of your kitchen would cost thousands of dollars. Replacing countertops, retiling the floor, and doing an entire refurbishing takes time out of your schedule--and more importantly, money out of your wallet. At that point, you might be spending more than the value you’re adding on.

Instead, concentrate on replacing the more outdated appliances in your kitchen. Whichever device you’re shopping for, make sure that they have the ENERGY STAR logo. This logo means that they’re energy-efficient and will save you (or, if you’re selling your home, the future homeowner) money. 

If their models are old, then replacing your refrigerator or stove is highly recommended. These are appliances that are often used for cooking and storing food. Slide-in stoves, in particular, give your home more value than freestanding ones. You may also want to consider replacing your dishwasher, especially if you’ve had the same model for more than ten years. Additionally, if you’re looking to buy a slow juicer, this is the perfect time to upgrade. A modern, self-feeding juicer not only enhances your kitchen’s functionality but also brings convenience and health benefits with every use.

4. Enhance Your Lighting

Lighting design is a part of home improvement that you might not have thought about. However, it can be an excellent way to enhance your rooms’ appearance and add some property value to your home.

There are many different areas of your home that you can add lighting sources to or replace existing lighting fixtures. For instance, you can add recessed lighting to the living room for a more ideal amount of brightness. You can also replace a basic chandelier over the dinner table with a model such as a drum shade or vintage-style chandelier, which will add a gorgeous appearance to the room. Keep an eye out on the marketplace for gorgeous led chandeliers, which are becoming increasingly popular in modern homes. In general LED lighting or LED bulbs wherever possible take a lot less electricity than either and reduce our impact on the planet. Switch on to the latest lighting trends on LED Ceiling Light Co.

These are just a few examples. No matter your lighting design idea or which room you decide on, enhancing your lighting fixtures can add style and value to your home.

Homeowners everywhere want a charming look for their house. Upgrading their homes with these fixtures can not only bring more elegance to your home but can also add property value if done right. With these tips, we’re confident that you can complete these fixture additions and increase your home’s value.

Jennifer Bell

About the Author

Jennifer Bell is a freelance writer, blogger, dog-enthusiast, and avid beachgoer operating out of Southern New Jersey.

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.