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Interior Design | New Year | Paint Colors | 2013

talkDESIGN :: December 2012
By: Michelle Jennings Wiebe

Out with the Old, In with the New:

As seen in the Tampa Bay Times on 12/23/12

Full Article Below:
House hunting. It can be so much fun and so overwhelming at the same time. If you are out looking for your next castle, it is wise to create a wish list of what you personally desire for your home, including the interiors. While viewing different houses, take a camera and a notepad to document how each compares to your list. In today's real estate market, the features below are definitely on many home buyers' wish lists. — Michelle Jennings Wiebe, special to the Times.

Modern Kitchens The kitchen truly is the heart of every home and therefore has become the most important space for home buyers. Increasingly, buyers want a modern open kitchen with an informal eat-in area, for both meals and homework. Center islands are desired, for their added counter space and storage. Large sinks under a window always are a hit.

Appliances are one of the most expensive items in a home, so make sure to look at the condition, age (including energy efficiency), and overall appearance. If your budget permits, a lot of buyers are inclined to show status by having high-end appliances such as Wolf and Sub-Zero. As for countertops, natural stone such as granite is still popular, but quartz counters such as Silestone and Caesarstone are becoming more in demand.  What's Out: Long narrow galley kitchens and separate dining rooms

Open floor plans, Numerous windows and High ceilings In newer homes, buyers desire open spaces, such as the kitchen and family room having open access to each another. Superior natural lighting is on most home buyers' wish lists, so large and abundant windows achieve this. High ceilings also create spaciousness and give good lighting and decorating options.  What's Out: Low ceilings covered in popcorn or knockdown textures

Family gathering spaces with open floor plans and high ceilings are popular with house hunters.
 

Durable Hardwood Flooring and Tile  More and more, buyers are opting for homes with hardwood flooring and/or tile due to the resilience and maintenance. These floors also can give style and beauty to any room. In older homes, original hardwood flooring may be hidden under old carpet. It's important to see what is underneath, and see if the hardwood can be refinished. Broadloom carpet may still be considered for bedrooms.  What's Out: Different flooring in every room, dirty carpet

Lavish Bathrooms  Buyers typically want at least two full bathrooms, preferably with windows for natural lighting and ventilation. They also desire walk-in showers instead of shower/tub combinations. However, at least one bathtub should be in the home. In the master bathroom, most buyers wish for two sinks, a freestanding tub, a shower with a myriad of water features, and a separate water closet for the toilet.  What's Out: Whirlpool tubs with expensive tub decks

New Year | New Look

Jump into the new year with a fresh start, and a fresh coat (of paint, that is!) It's time to get bold, embrace color in 2013.  Check out our list of Studio M-approved colors for this year.

NYE Drink DIY: "Sparkling Blue Star"

The Studio M go-to for any function, especially New Years Eve

2 ounces orange infused vodka

2 ounces blue curaçao

Champagne
 

1. Rim 2 champagne glasses with blue sanding sugar.
2. Pour 1 ounce orange infused vodka into each of the prepared champagne glasses.
3. Pour 1 ounce blue curaçao into each into each of the prepared champagne glasses.
4. Top each glass with champagne.
5. Enjoy!

Source:
Day Dreamer Desserts

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