OCTOBER 2023 | DAILY JOURNAL
HOMEMTRENDS AG A Z I N E deck the halls Fun ideas for festive seasonal decor
TRENDS: Furnace tune-ups // KITCHENS: White cabinetry
old-time holiday Vintage decor is one way to stand out this season PAGE 10
what’s inside MAINTENANCE
KITCHENS
FURNITURE
PAGE 5
PAGE 14
PAGE 17
HOME TRENDS MAGAZINE
October 2023 Home Trends Magazine is published by the Daily Journal.
For editorial content, contact Amy May in the Daily Journal special publications department at 317-736-2726 or by email at amay@dailyjournal.net. For advertising content, contact the Daily Journal advertising department at 317736-2730.
TUNE UP THE HEATER
WHY GO WITH WHITE?
MAKE IT YOUR OWN
Fall is the time to make sure the furnace is fit.
White cabinets are stylish and fit with most decor.
Wood pieces can be customized to suit you.
All content © 2023 Daily Journal. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without permission from the publisher, except as permitted by U.S. copyright law. Stock images provided by Adobe Stock. DAILY JOURNAL
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WHAT’S TRENDING IN ...
Furnace tune-ups
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By jenn willhite | PHOTO BY adobe stock
As falling temperatures usher in the heating season, now’s the time for a tune-up to make sure the furnace is in tiptop shape. Ideally, a furnace should have an annual check anytime between September and April, says Paul Burgess, vice president of Johnson Heating and Cooling in Franklin. Whether the system is electric, geothermal or gas, airflow is king, Burgess says. Throughout the year, it is good practice to keep a furnace’s air filter changed and clean to ensure proper airflow throughout the home, he says. However, homeowners frequently leave the filter to fate and more often times than not, the inevitably dirty filter will restrict airflow, causing the furnace to shut down on high heat. “There’s a high-heat sensor that protects the home,” Burgess explains. “If you aren’t getting enough airflow, it is going to heat up too much and shut your furnace down.” To avoid a furnace emergency, routine maintenance is a must. First up is the temperature drop or rise, which establishes the overall health of the system. As long as the furnace’s temperature rise falls within a certain range, many elements can be checked off the list, he says. A visual inspection can determine if the filter needs changed. Next up is safety. Unlike electric and geo-thermal, gas furnaces can present a lethal danger in the home. Carbon monoxide detectors placed in the area of the furnace unit are essential, as well as a surge protector on the furnace itself. “We visually inspect the heat exchanger — the fan that blows air over the flame to heat the air,” Burgess says. “If that is cracked, the carbon monoxide coming out of the combustion will come out into the air.”
If carbon monoxide escapes the unit, it collects in the home. If the furnace overheats, it can cause a fire. High-voltage wires are checked to make sure they are concealed and there’s no possibility of shorts. The heat exchange is inspected to ensure it is clean, intact and working. For gas furnaces, the flame sensor is also examined. Geo-thermal furnace inspections will include an examination of how the loop is operating. Electric units require an evaluation of the heat pump. “Really, what we are looking for in a tune-up is whether everything is clean and are you getting proper airflow,” Burgess says. “We will always check for hot or cold spots in the home — issues here will indicate a ducting issue.” As long as everything is in good shape and running well, an annual tune-up should be completed in under one hour.
WHAT’S NEW? Self-diagnosing thermostats are making their debut. “You can get equipment today where you can maintain heat and humidity at exact levels controlled by a cell phone,” Burgess says. However, there is a balance between the bells and whistles and energy savings, Burgess cautions. Everyone looks at the seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER), which rates how efficiently the system produces hot and cold air. However, one should pay just as much attention — if not more — to the Energy Efficiency Rating (EER), which addresses how much power the unit uses. Remember, the higher the EER rating, the lower the efficiency of the system.
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IN-35148888
Birdfeeder battleground
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For bird lovers, the sight of a bushy tail hanging off the side of a feeder means one thing: war. Love them or loathe them, most birders agree they don’t want squirrels in birdfeeders where they can devour seed meant for birds. Squirrels have to eat, too, and no one wants to harm the persistent critters. However, that doesn’t mean you have to put up with squirrels scarfing down seed set out for birds, damaging feeders and bumping up your blood pressure. It’s possible to discourage squirrels — and even outsmart them — with the right seed mix and some naturefriendly squirrel-control tactics. Because squirrels love birdseed as much as birds do, both groups routinely battle for rights to the birdfeeder. It’s not an equal fight — most squirrels are bigger than the average bird, so chances are they’re going to devour the seed. Squirrels are one of the biggest problems for people who feed birds. They can eat large amounts of seed, destroy birdfeeders and chase birds away. When squirrels claim your feeder as their territory, it’s hard to get rid of them. While they can be relentless in their perpetual pursuit of birdseed and don’t like to share, you don’t want to hurt them, just set them on the straight and narrow. One of the most effective tactics to keep squirrels out of birdfeeders is taste aversion - serving seed that birds find delicious, but squirrels consider downright distasteful. Simply put, if the seed you serve tastes terrible to squirrels, they’ll seek sustenance elsewhere. Put pesky squirrels on notice that your birdfeeders are meant to be bird-exclusive by stocking them with products infused with fiery hot habanero chili peppers, like Cole’s “Hot Meats” that appeals to birds with top-quality sunflower meats and spicy taste but turns squirrels away with hot chili-pepper oil. Or offer “Blazing Hot Blend,” which
Winning the war against squirrels By Joan Casanova/Family Features PHOTO BY Cole’s Wild Bird Products
combines the same habanero chili oil formula with preferred seeds to attract a maximum variety of songbirds. Birds find the spicy taste delectable but squirrels detest it. Studies show mammals, including squirrels, have receptors on the tongue and mouth that react to chili peppers by sending heat signals to the brain. Although there’s no actual harm, the sensation makes it seem like the mouth is on fire. Birds lack receptors that make chewing chili peppers such an eye-watering experience for mammals, and they love the spicy flavor. Another easy option is Cole’s “Flaming Squirrel Seed Sauce,” a nutritional birdseed “hot sauce” that contains all-natural, 100% food-grade ingredients with a hot and spicy flavor. It’s a safe, effective and humane way to feed birds and thwart squirrels. Remember, your feathered friends can’t taste the heat, but squirrels sure can. Add this chili pepper formula to any birdseed to reduce squirrel visits at the birdfeeder. If you have a soft spot for those fluffy-tailed felons as amusing additions to your backyard, try diversion feeding, an effective tactic to lure squirrels away from the birdfeeder by providing them with their own food source. Set up a squirrel feeding station away from birdfeeders and make it easy for squirrels to access their own platform feeder filled with favored temptations. This can satisfy squirrels and allow for a “birds only” oasis at the birdfeeder. Try “Critter Munchies,” a blend of whole yellow corn, striped sunflower, peanuts in the shell, black oil sunflower and raw peanuts. If you’re among the bird lovers who have tried countless devices and gimmicks over the years to thwart seed-stealing squirrels, using taste aversion and diversion feeding tactics can help you win the age-old war at your backyard birdfeeders. For more information, visit coleswildbird.com. DAILY JOURNAL
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Tricks to amplify autumn curb appeal By family features
With lower temperatures and milder conditions, fall provides a perfect opportunity to tackle that home renovation to-do list. Whether you plan on making minor improvements or wholesale changes are on the horizon, taking on a few DIY projects can help you boost your home’s curb appeal (and its value) while also prepping for colder weather in the days ahead. Making investments now — like putting time and money toward long-term energy efficiency — can pay off down the road, whether you’re planning for a potential sale or simply looking to get more enjoyment out of your home. Plus, many exterior upgrades can be completed by homeowners, meaning there’s no need to hire a professional when it’s time to give your home a refresh. Beautify those dull areas, boost resale value and add comfort with these ideas from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products, a manufacturer of high-quality, low-maintenance products designed to meet the specifications and needs of building professionals, homeowners, architects, engineers and distributors.
ADD OR REPLACE SHUTTERS As a classic exterior design element, shutters can add instant charm to your home. With a variety of materials and colors to choose from, you can add shutters that suit your style and budget to give your home a
more polished look. If it’s already adorned with shutters, consider updating them with newer styles for a fresh appearance.
INVEST IN SIDING Good insulation is key to keeping your home warm, cozy and weather-proof during colder months. While there are many ways to upgrade the insulation of your house, some homeowners are turning to insulated siding for a long-term solution. Long-lasting, weather-proof, durable and aesthetically pleasing, CraneBoard Solid Core Siding from Westlake Royal Building Products offers a cost-efficient way to beat the cold. It’s low maintenance, built to last and withstands temperature fluctuations and hurricane force winds for a highly functional option to keep cold out for years to come.
UPGRADE WITH STONE VENEER Natural and textured home trends continue to rise, leading many building pros and homeowners to gravitate toward stone veneer, or manufactured stone, as it can replicate the look of real stone. The wide range of exterior and interior applications means you can add comfort, character and beauty while complementing your existing style. Consider an option like Versetta Stone from Westlake Royal Building Products, which offers homeowners an authentic, hand-crafted look in
a panelized format that’s easy to install with nails and screws. There’s no need to paint, coat or seal once installed for a low-maintenance solution for accent walls, fireplaces, siding, entryways and walkways.
REFRESH PORCH COLUMNS Routine cleaning is one way to maintain porch columns, but if they’re rotting or splitting, consider PVC porch column wraps for a visual transformation. Easy and often affordable, they’re durable and decorative to fit existing columns or poles and can be painted to match your exterior color palette. They’re resistant to pests, moisture and weather damage for long-lasting and nearly maintenance-free upgrades.
UPDATE YOUR DRIVEWAY Whether you’re looking to make some simple updates or it’s time for a complete renovation, showing your driveway some love can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal. Adding an address post with a hanging basket or planting trees, shrubbery or flowers along the sides lends immediate aesthetic improvement. For added low-light visibility and visual appeal, install lights along the perimeter to help the greenery stand out in the evening. If you’re ready for a major overhaul, consider upgrading the driveway using cobblestone, pavers or stamped concrete. DAILY JOURNAL
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Red, green and retro Look to the past for creative and cost-saving decor this holiday season By Jenn Willhite | PHOTOS BY ADOBE STOCK
H
Holiday décor trends this year can be defined with one word: Vintage. “Vintage is the big thing,” says Tina Stephens, owner of Cool Interiors in Bargersville. “Retro accents from the 1950s and 60s — so searching grandma’s attic or the local thrift and antique stores — those are very hot items.” The lean into retro is fueled, in part, by the rise in cost of living, Stephens says. Repurposing things around the house is a great way to not only cut down on holiday costs, but to offer a nod to days gone by. From the subtle and earthy to bold and lux, this year’s décor ideas offer a little something for every taste. Stephens says the search for items isn’t necessarily restrained to recycling
Christmases past. Even the ordinary can offer holiday cheer when given a festive facelift. For instance, consider giving new life to those dusty picture frames stacked in the attic or garage, Stephens says. “People are putting either Christmas paper with fun themes or fabric in the frames and then hanging them on the wall as décor,” Stephens says. “And some will attach maybe yarn or twine to the back of the frame to give it a more rustic feel.” Earth tones top the palette this season as mushrooms, plain brown paper and chalk comprise the go-to list for simplistic décor and gift giving. A palette of gold, black and white is always elegant and offers a classic look, Stephens says. Adding another bold accent color, such as trendy burgundy, is a great way to achieve a lux look. Not into gnomes and forestry magic? Add crystals and festively bright colors with popping reds, purples, blues and pinks to the mix with tinselly sparkle and shine as a throwback to childhood. Icy blues accented with metallic hues and easy-going pastels are also great trendy alternatives. However, in the quest for the perfect holiday palette, one shouldn’t forget the traditional Christmas colors that make the season bright, says Dale Hughes, owner of Dale Hughes Interior Design in Franklin. Consider incorporating ornaments and items that would enhance a room’s existing décor, he recommends. Those who choose to utilize trending seasonal colors may opt to find a second place in the home to use traditional Christmas elements that include items one has collected through the years. “It comes down to: Christmas is a tradition,” Hughes says. For the most part, trees this season will further reflect a sense of simplicity. Textures, including feathers, wood and metal, are great natural materials for a unique interpretation of tree décor. Add gnomes to play on the season’s magical look, Stephens says. Handmade paper chains, snowflakes and ornaments coupled with casual throw pillows and even a couple of blankets in a room can add a touch of respite and simplicity to contrast the hustle and bustle of the holidays, she adds. Flock trees showered with their powdery softness will certainly be trending, as well as naked trees accentuated with rustic farmhouse neutral tones, Stephens says. One may also consider alternative takes on the traditional tree, Stephens recommends. “I like to decorate with bare branches with no greenery,” Stephens says. “Then hang ornaments from them in a pot or even a vase. And, even just evergreen clippings in a vase are going to be popular.” Continued on Page 12 DAILY JOURNAL
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With the world becoming more chaotic, people are returning to what is important, Stephens and Hughes agree. And, it is for that reason memory making is front and center in 2023. “It is kind of feeling like ‘Little House on the Prairie’,” Stephens says. “People are into making memories, like cutting snowflakes and making paper chains again. Family involvement is big this year.” Wrapping gifts is going to be eco-friendly with the use of brown packing paper and even fabric, Stephens says. Consider using chalk markers to draw little designs and well wishes on both handmade gift tags and cards. Continuing with the natural theme, add a stick of cinnamon, a slice of dried citrus, pine cone or evergreen needles to gifts and table place settings, Stephens says. Natural ribbons and burlap are also great alternatives to store-bought wrapping options. And, as always, wreaths both inside and outside the home never go out of style. Compliment simple trees and décor with a humble balsam or fir wreath wrapped with basic ribbon and hung with twine in the window or on the front door. “I like to use what people have, then make minimal purchases to top it off,” Stephens says.
When it comes to outdoor décor, keep it lively and have fun, Hughes recommends. No one wants to pack their kids in the car to drive around and look at Christmas lights if every house is illuminated in white lights alone, Hughes says. To bring the repurposing feel used indoors outdoors this season, think outside the box to reinvent the traditional take on a winter wonderland. Have large plastic exercise balls hanging around unused? Repurpose them. Use duct tape to add some stripes, stick a tin can on top with a makeshift wire hook and tada! You have fun, oversized tree ornaments. Creating an outdoor wonderland should be fun and over the top, Hughes says. Incorporate that inflatable Santa on the rooftop or elves mischievously frolicking in the yard. Summon your inner child and let it take the reins. “Unless you are going to be completely white where there is seamless transition between inside and out, I think you should go fun,” Hughes says. “We shouldn’t forget the tradition, which is what motivates us to take the time and effort to create those fun things. It isn’t just for you, but for your family, neighbors and friends to enjoy.”
“Retro accents from the 1950s and 60s — so searching grandma’s attic or the local thrift and antique stores — those are very hot items” Tina Stephens , owner Cool Interiors, Bargersville
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a royal topper
DIY tips for installing decorative crown molding By family features | PHOTO BY unsplash
If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to dress up a room in your home, crown molding can be a simple way to add elegance and class with minimal investment. Crown molding is most commonly applied as a decorative trim where the walls meet the ceiling. It is often painted the same color as the baseboards, door frames and other woodwork, but can be colored to match the ceiling or a different shade to create extra drama. Though the corner angles may be especially daunting for do-it-yourself types, installing crown molding is a project you can tackle without the assistance of a professional. However, it is a good idea to ask for help along the way, as all the measuring, marking and holding up pieces for nailing can be a bit much for one person. This step-by-step guide can show you how to create a striking design element in your home: 1. Measure the perimeter of your room, remembering to take into account any insets or bump-outs that add additional inches. Be sure to pad your total when purchasing materials to allow for a mistake (or two). 2. Prime and paint the molding, front and back, and allow it to dry completely. 3. Mark the studs near the ceiling on all walls so you can securely attach the molding. 4. Measure from the ceiling down the depth of the mold-
ing and mark this point. Using a level, establish a baseline for the length of each wall. 5. Use a miter saw or coping saw to trim angles for corner pieces. Remember the molding as it lays on the saw table is the inverse of its fit to the wall, so you may want to make a few practice cuts to be sure you’re trimming angles properly. A good rule of thumb: For outside corners, the top edge is longer; for inside corners, the longer edge is on the bottom. 6. Attach molding using a nail gun, making sure to hit as many studs as possible for secure attachment. 7. On the sections that fit in corners, nail the center of the molding first, leaving the corner end loose. Use a wood shim or screwdriver behind the bottom edge of the molding to make adjustments and eliminate gaps before securing the corners. 8. Where you join two pieces for a long stretch of wall, be sure the seam falls over a stud, so you can nail both ends firmly in place. For the most polished look, fit the ends of these pieces together with complementary 45-degree angles. 9. If your nails aren’t fully sunk, use a nail set to press them deeper. Use wood putty to cover nail holes. 10. Caulk all seams using a thin stream and use a finger dipped in water to smooth away excess. 11. Touch up paint, especially over putty spots and seams.
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THE case for white cabinets
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Clean, versatile neutral has universal appeal By Cathy Hobbs | PHOTOs BY Tribune News Service
Cabinets come in all shapes, sizes and colors, too! Selecting the right material and color may be one the most important decisions to make when designing the overall look and feel of your kitchen. When considering renovating or creating a new kitchen, what is the best cabinet color? These days, more than ever, the answer is white. Not considered bland, boring or low end, white remains a popular and desired choice for homeowners looking to create a timeless and elegant look that will also create a neutral palette. What are some advantages of selecting white as a cabinet choice? Here are some top reasons: l If you ever decide to sell your property, white cabinets will have universal appeal. l White cabinets can be dressed up or dressed down. For example, they can work just as well in a farm-style house as a mansion. l White cabinets can also work well with nearly any hardware style. l White cabinetry is versatile and won’t clash with existing flooring, furniture or finishes in areas such as countertops. l White cabinetry is considered timeless and elegant, as opposed to trendy or personalized. Here are some tips to get you started. l Hire a professional to properly measure and install your cabinetry. l Invest in good-quality cabinetry made of solid hardwood. Cabinets should last for decades. l Carefully choose hardware. Selection can drastically impact the look and feel of a cabinet. l Invest in elements that may improve functionality like interior drawer inserts or cabinet dividers. Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design home staging expert and short-term rental/ vacation home designer. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs. com or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.
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Making it your own Exploring wood furniture customization
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By katie laughridge | PHOTOs BY Tribune News Service
Gone are the days of settling for a limited selection of preselected finishes. In this piece, we’ll delve into a world of wood furniture customization. Prepare to be amazed as we explore the endless possibilities of customizing drawer pulls, drawer faces and even legs, allowing you to create a truly bespoke piece that perfectly aligns with your style and preferences. Whether you crave a traditional woodgrain look or a vibrant pop of color, join us on this inspiring journey as we unlock the limitless potential of wood furniture customization.
WHY CUSTOMIZE?
First and foremost, customization allows you to infuse your unique personality and style into your home decor. By selecting the wood finishes and details that resonate with you, customization also grants you the opportunity to address specific functional needs, ensuring that your furniture is tailored to your lifestyle. Whether it’s adding extra drawers, modifying dimensions or incorporating special features, you have the freedom to design a piece that perfectly suits your requirements.
CUSTOMIZATION POSSIBILITIES We understand that sometimes finding the perfect piece can be a challenge, but fear not! These carefully selected vendors understand the importance of personalization and offer exceptional case goods that can be customized to your specifications. Vanguard’s “Make It Your Own” line offers an array of case goods, ranging from desks to nightstands and dressers, allowing you to select the finish, knobs and other details that suit your style. Their pieces can skew from modern all the way to traditional. While CR Laine makes upholstered furniture, with frames that feature exposed wood, they provide wood customization options, including the ability to choose from a number of finished and any Benjamin Moore paint color to create the perfect frame for your furniture! While these customizations may require slightly longer lead times, the result is a piece of furniture that is truly tailored to your taste and preferences. Don’t settle for generic pieces when you can have furniture that speaks to your style.
CREATING YOUR FURNITURE Whether you seek to infuse your style, address specific functional needs or support local artisans, the options are limitless. By collaborating with talented designers and exploring the offerings of exceptional vendors, you can create furniture that tells your story and reflects your individuality. Embrace the journey of customization and witness the remarkable transformation as your dream furniture becomes a reality. DAILY JOURNAL
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tricks to find the right home
By family features | PHOTO BY unsplash
For those beginning the process of home buying, there are many factors to consider. Keep these ideas in mind as you conduct your search — whether it’s online or at a series of open houses.
CONSIDER FUTURE NEEDS Because life is always evolving, it’s important to move into a home that has enough space for your family’s anticipated changes. While features and space are always prime considerations, don’t forget to, look into the area schools, day care options, parks and other kid-friendly amenities if you plan to grow your family in your next home.
LOOK FOR FLEXIBLE SPACES Seek homes that offer rooms with multiple functions. For example, an office area may be suitable for a small child’s room, or a sunroom may be converted to a laundry area down the road. Unfinished basements are also blank canvases that can be customized to meet your family’s wants and needs.
GET TO KNOW THE AREA The purchase of a home goes well beyond the property line. Be sure to examine the neighborhood in which the house is situated. From the condition of the neighbors’ houses to highway access and the proximity of necessities like grocery stores and gas stations, be sure to take every factor into account to help ensure you’re selecting the right location.
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