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2024-07-29T07:01:00

(BPT) – Design is a major component for any home renovation. Introducing mixed metals into the kitchen and bath is one of the latest design trends that should be considered when thinking through that next project. The eclectic aesthetic behind the mixed metal trend is popular across the design world and it only takes a few different types of materials, finishes and personality to get the job done. See below for ideas and easy ways to bring it all together, all while keeping budget in mind.

Where to look for inspiration

No matter the interior style you’re trying to go for, getting inspired by the world around you or getting acquainted with what’s trending in the interior decor space (via home/lifestyle magazines or vlogs) are good places to start.

Maris Park Borris, Color Material & Finish (CMF) designer at Delta Faucet Company, says inspiration can strike from a variety of ways and reminds homeowners, “Regardless of style or design intent, I think we can all find inspiration from different times or places in our lives. From your past, present or future, to online or even nature sources. People pick up on things that are meaningful to them!” Park Borris says.

By reading up and taking inspiration from others and trends happening within the design space, you’ll start to notice general themes that are frequently incorporated, including the mixed metal trend. A little dedication and creativity are all that’s needed. To start, pick two or three contrasting metals with different tones to implement character and depth into the space, while selecting one of those as the cohesive thread across all. This will not only keep guests’ eyes entertained, but it’ll also give you the opportunity to introduce different textures and finishes for an elevated look.

That’s so metal

Mixing metals is a simple way to give spaces a unique touch. Metals like steel and copper offer a shinier, flashy aesthetic in the home while chromes and nickels give off a more polished, sophisticated look. Once the most prominent metal is identified for the space, complement it with either warmer metals like brass, gold and nickel or cooler ones like chrome and silver. Keep in mind that metal choices and combinations are all just a matter of the homeowner’s taste and preference in the end.

Pro tip — avoid using metals that look too much like one another so that the result doesn’t look like a mistaken matching effort. Spaces and journeys within the home are also important to consider. Keep an eye on how one finish can mix and translate to the next room. This will create new experiences and an enjoyable walkthrough for your guests.

Complement metals via beautiful, affordable fixtures

When renovating kitchen and bath spaces with the mixed metal look in mind, selecting beautifully designed fixtures is a simple start to get the trend in motion. This year, Peerless^® Faucet launched its all-new Ezra™ Kitchen and Bath Collections — all with an array of unique finish options to choose from. Designed with sharp lines, soft curves and functional features, these collections deliver long-lasting performance while uplifting any space.

In the kitchen, the Ezra Collection is available in Chrome, Stainless Steel and Matte Black finishes — all can be easily paired with everyday decorative pieces one may already have on-hand. For example, try accessorizing around the faucet with soap dispensers, cabinetry handles, lifestyle pieces or even other appliances — pairing the finish with a contrasting metal.

“You don’t have to spend a lot of money to achieve the mixed metal look,” said Borris. “Identify where metal is already being used in your home. It’s shocking to find that many decor pieces in one’s home already come with a metallic finish that can be accessorized. There are endless inexpensive ways to bring some different hued metals into the home!”

Apply it to your space

Mixing metals into a home renovation project is sure to turn heads. Think through design plans, brainstorm metal selections and put it all together — it’s as simple as that! With endless finishes, accessories and combinations, one’s imagination is the limit when it comes to beautifying a space. Remember, there are only a few key notes to keep top of mind when implementing this trend:

1. Remember to pick two or more metals that are distinct from one another — perhaps picking one with a cooler tone and one that is warmer.
2. Designate one metal for more prominent use and use the others as accents.
3. Leverage fixtures and products that automatically provide a specific tonal look to complement the space.

2024-07-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – Have a move on the horizon? You may feel overwhelmed. But moving can be the perfect opportunity to declutter and set yourself up for a smooth ride into your new neighborhood.

It’s likely that you want to keep control of how your belongings are packed and moved by taking charge of the move yourself. In fact, many people share this same sentiment — Penske Truck Rental’s Settling In: Consumer Moving Trends Survey found that 57% of people planning a move prefer to rent their own moving truck.

If that sounds like you, here are tips to help you successfully execute your move.

1. Plan ahead

The more you prep, the better. Create a checklist and calendar to stay on track.

Assess what you’re bringing to your new home and start planning for a moving date. Once identified, you’ll need to find a truck that’s best suited for your move. Not sure where to start? Penske offers a “Truck Wizard” which provides customized truck recommendations based on a quick questionnaire. After you identify the perfect size truck, you’re all set to book your truck rental. Many rental companies, like Penske, offer quick and easy bookings, and additional services that will make your move a breeze. You can grab packing supplies, furniture pads, tow dollies and more right from the pick-up location.

Pro tip: Save time on moving day by renting your truck the day before the move.

2. Maximize decluttering

You’ve probably always wanted to declutter, but moving provides the incentive to get it done. Start with areas you use least, like guest rooms. Label boxes “donate,” “trash” and “recycle,” then ask yourself: “Do I want this item enough to pack and move it?” If not, into one of those boxes it goes. Create a room-by-room schedule on your calendar to spread sorting over several days or weeks.

For moving day, create a bag for essentials like toiletries and phone chargers, then pack a toolkit with things you’ll need for setting up your new home, like power strips, towels and trash bags.

Pro tip: Label boxes on tops and sides so they’re easy to see.

3. Don’t miss the details

Moving requires bureaucratic details, including:

• Change of address with the post office, your bank, credit cards, driver’s license, etc.
• Utilities need to be turned off or transferred. Moving to a new town? Research whether current providers can service your new area or if you’ll need to switch.

Pro tip: Many tasks can be performed online. Check provider websites for information.

4. Pack carefully

Pack valuable breakables in bubble wrap or other quality materials. You can recycle cardboard or use coffee filters between everyday dishes and bowls to prevent chips and scratches. Secure dresser drawers and appliance doors with rope and tape.

Pro tip: Take pictures of the back of your TV before disconnecting so you’ll know how to re-wire, and tape remotes to the back.

5. Loading and driving your moving truck

Familiarize yourself with your moving truck, including knowing what fuel it needs. Learn the height and width (clearance) dimensions to avoid mishaps entering narrow drive-thru lanes or driving under low bridges. Consider an extra padlock for lengthy/overnight stops.

Organize heaviest items in an “I” formation, balancing weight evenly, and use tie-downs to prevent sliding. Smaller items and boxes can fit in gaps around heavy items to fill the truck. Keep anything valuable or that you’ll need to access easily in the cab.

A larger vehicle can take time to get used to. Watch your speed and proximity to other vehicles to avoid sudden braking.

Pro tip: Check the weather forecast to know what to expect, and leave extra time if needed. Avoid busy urban areas around holidays like Labor Day.

6. Enjoy the move

Enlist help from friends and family, take breaks and enjoy the experience! Moving to a new place can lead to fun and exciting discoveries, and the chance to make new friends.

7. Explore your new area

Moving to a new place can be both exciting and challenging. Finding ways to connect with your new community can make the transition smoother. The Penske Settling In survey found that certain activities helped movers acclimate to their new neighborhood and build a sense of community. Top activities included: exploring new restaurants and shops, meeting neighbors, discovering new parks and outdoor spaces, plus participating in local events. The majority of people moving to a new neighborhood (72%) found that establishing a consistent routine helped them get used to their new area.

Moving can be a wonderful experience, full of new adventures. Find tips and resources to improve your next move at PenskeTruckRental.com.

2024-07-24T08:01:00

(BPT) – Interior design styles are always changing. Since the 1990s, interior styles have moved from sleekness to warm tones to clean basics and now, to a natural warmth that introduces a holistic balance that is inviting and raw. There are many ways you can invite natural warmth into your home, and one of the easiest ways is by using white.

Whites can easily elevate a space, creating a light and tranquil atmosphere with a touch of elegance. Over time, white has evolved from a bright white with blue undertones to take on more natural hues from wood tones and stones for a softer, more natural and approachable aesthetic.

You don’t have to plan a full design overhaul to embrace warmth in your home design. Check out these four simple ways to incorporate warm whites into your home’s design.

1. Living room

The living room is the heart of your home. Because the living room is often a gathering place for family members or guests, the space should be open and inviting. You can, of course, paint your walls in a warm white with red undertones to reflect natural lighting. However, painting isn’t your only option.

If you’ve been thinking of replacing your furniture, opt for a creamy white plush sofa or armchairs. You can also add a basket made of natural materials like rattan and fill it with cozy off-white blankets. Don’t forget to accentuate the room with white sheer curtains that can filter natural light for a soft glow.

2. Kitchen

A well-designed kitchen should balance functionality with style. Incorporate warm whites by choosing cabinetry that almost feels taupe in color and pair this with leathered marble countertops. You can complete the look by adding white kitchen tools and appliances; Crate & Barrel does a great job curating color for your kitchen!

Kitchen gadgets, especially tools you use every day, can act as an extension of your design. Instead of hiding an appliance, choose appliances that serve as an extension of your kitchen design. For example, coffee lovers should consider the KitchenAid Espresso Collection, which includes semi-automatic and fully automatic espresso machines that were designed specifically for the countertop.

With the trend of white color tones in the home increasing, the Whirlpool Design Team created the Porcelain White colorway for the KitchenAid Espresso Collection, available exclusively at Crate & Barrel and KitchenAid.com.

KitchenAid^® Semi-Automatic and Fully Automatic Espresso Machines in Porcelain White are designed to integrate into your home seamlessly and bring everything you love about espresso right to your countertop. They’re also Quiet Mark-certified, so you can make your morning cup of Joe without waking up the whole house.

3. Bathroom

Natural white hues in your bathroom can evoke a sense of serenity and cleanliness, similar to a spa. Using ivory-colored tiles on the walls, countertops and flooring, you can create the illusion of a larger, more open space. You can pair this brilliant tile with unlacquered brass or brushed nickel fixtures for a touch of elegance. Don’t forget to add plush white towels and bathmats!

4. Bedroom

Turn your bedroom into an escape from the every day by creating a calm environment. If you’re shopping for new furniture, look for an upholstered headboard in natural whites and pair it with a bed frame in white oak. For a quick infusion of style, add crisp white linen bedding and layer with textured throws and cushions in various natural white hues and earth tones for depth and visual interest. Remember to opt for soft, ambient lighting to complete the space.

Are you ready to embrace warmth in your home? Embrace the versatility of whites in your design choices! Use these four easy tips to create a home that is inviting, grounded and on-trend with a color that illuminates your living spaces.

2024-07-23T00:01:00

(BPT) – Jesse Faust originally became a firefighter and an EMT to help people. Then, in the summer of 2022, the unthinkable happened.

Faust was involved in a severe car accident that left him partially paralyzed and forced him into disability retirement. While the accident ended his firefighting career, it did not stifle his passion for educating the public about the critical need to maximize fire safety for their homes and, more importantly, for their families.

Through his many years of service, Faust saw firsthand the devastation fire can inflict on structures of all types and sizes. So, when his family decided to design and build a new home near Madison, Wisconsin, to accommodate Jesse’s needs, fire sprinklers were top of mind for their ability to confine a fire to a smaller space.

Why smoke alarms are not enough

Bill Sullivan serves as fire marshal for the City of Madison and chairperson of the Wisconsin Fire Sprinkler Coalition, an organization dedicated to breaking down barriers and educating communities about residential fire sprinkler systems.

With more than 30 years in fire safety, Sullivan is well aware that relatively few areas across the United States have code requirements or mandates for fire sprinklers in new or existing homes.

Of course, many American homes have smoke alarms for protection against fire, and Sullivan believes these familiar household devices are essential. Even so, they can’t provide the same high level of critical, life-saving protection as fire sprinklers.

“Smoke alarms are passive, and humans still have to react to that sound,” he explained. “Smoke alarms do not do anything if nobody’s home at the time. And if people or pets are in the house but unable to get out on their own and need assistance, the smoke alarm does not help.”

On the other hand, fire sprinklers are active systems that respond directly to extreme heat. “The fire sprinkler system is going to react and begin to flow water as soon as the temperature reaches a certain level at the sprinkler head,” stated Sullivan. “The sprinkler begins to put water on the fire to control it and potentially put it out — long before anybody has time to call 911 and for the fire department to respond.”

Faust can relate to concerns about people and pets unable to escape a fire on their own. “Being that I’m handicapped, and I don’t get around that well, fire sprinklers make a huge difference,” he said. “If I happen to not be in my wheelchair, I’m kind of confined to whatever particular space I’m in. So, really, sprinklers are almost a lifesaver for me.”

Fire sprinklers are worth considering

In 2023, there were 2,160 reported home fire fatalities throughout the United States, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. This is why organizations like the Wisconsin Fire Sprinkler Coalition work to show plumbers how they can easily add sprinklers to their service offerings.

The other equally important task involves educating the public about the benefits of installing a multipurpose fire sprinkler system that combines with the home’s cold-water plumbing.

Louie Van Den Bergh, a licensed plumber and owner of Van Den Bergh Plumbing in Mazomanie, Wisconsin, is a 24-year industry veteran who uses flexible PEX pipe when he works on remodels. However, the Faust residence marked his first time installing a PEX multipurpose system — or any home fire sprinkler system for that matter.

To prepare, Van Den Bergh’s team underwent four hours of online training through Uponor, the AquaSAFE™ multipurpose system provider. “You just follow along and take a test at the end of each training section,” he explained. “It was pretty easy.”

The manufacturer’s rep, Bill Panfil from Midwest Sales and Marketing, was on site to help Van Den Bergh lay out the project while offering helpful pointers and additional training. “I’m there to answer any questions that might come up,” Panfil said, “and to ensure the installation goes smoothly.”

The multipurpose system incorporates the sprinkler heads into the home’s cold-water supply lines. As a result, the same PEX pipe and expansion fittings that are used throughout the residence’s plumbing system provide a dual purpose.

The sprinkler head essentially becomes another plumbing fixture in the water supply line. Whenever someone in the home turns on a faucet or flushes a toilet, it confirms the fire sprinkler system is also operational.

“It’s a live system that is always moving fresh water through the home,” Panfil explained. “It uses the same pipe and connection system, so everything works flawlessly together.”

The multipurpose system in the Faust home is also covered by a 25-year PEX-a pipe and expansion fitting system warranty, offering added peace of mind.

Fire sprinklers for forever homes

A common misconception about fire sprinklers is that they might leak or accidentally activate, causing considerable damage to the home. Faust dismisses such concerns as badly overstated.

“Would a homeowner fear installing a new toilet or sink?” he asked. “This system is using the same plumbing that is already in my house, so I’m not concerned about it leaking, just like I’m not concerned about my sink leaking. The sprinkler head is essentially just another termination point in the home, so there’s no more risk of leaks than a faucet.”

And now, with more people choosing to age in place, it begs the question: How can homeowners sustain a high level of comfort and safety as their mobility inevitably declines over time? As Faust can attest, unfortunately, such changes can come swiftly without warning.

“People have to think about the future if they’re building a house,” he said. “Today, you may be able to get out of your home easily. But in the future, maybe not.”

Faust admits that, as an active firefighter, he never seriously considered fire sprinklers a safety option for the home. “But here I am, just extremely fortunate to have this protection to show it to others so that they realize what’s possible.”

His recommendation? “If you have the means and are considering installing sprinklers, you should do it.”