NOVEMBER 2023 | DAILY JOURNAL
HOMEMTRENDS AG A Z I N E Real estate trends Local Realtors explain today’s housing market
TRENDS: Christmas trees // Decor: Throw pillows
back to normal? Realtors say market is trending back to traditional PAGE 8
what’s inside HOLIDAYS
DECOR
PAINT
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HOME TRENDS MAGAZINE
November 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.
DECK THE HALLS
THROW IN A LITTLE STYLE
COOL AND CALM COLORS
Consider the varieties of trees before buying.
Throw pillows are delightful, trendy accent pieces.
Look to nature-inspired designs for a tranquil space.
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 ...
Christmas trees By jenn willhite | PHOTO BY adobe stock
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The Fraser fir may be most popular live Christmas tree in the United States but, for Hoosiers, the Scotch and white pine tree varieties top the list for shoppers this holiday season. “We cannot grow Fraser firs here in central Indiana,” says Steve DeHart, owner of Trees from DeHart, located at 3764 South 200 E in Franklin. “Scotch is probably the preferred tree on the choose and cut side of the business.” According to TheSpruce.com, the low-maintenance Eastern White Pine is known for its long, thin needles that are frequently used in holiday décor, like wreaths and centerpieces. Though it may not be as stout in its stature compared to other varieties, the white pine does well when lightweight, sparse decorations adorn its branches. By comparison, the sturdy Scotch pine’s naturally red bark offers a festive contrast for its bright green needles. The tradeoff being the prickly, sharp needles of the Scotch pine can require periodic cleanup and pose a potential infection and toxicity concern for some pet owners. Choosing the right tree may be subjective, but once you find the one, the rules for keeping and maintaining it through the holiday season remain the same.
“You will want to find a tree that is in good shape with no dead branches, that’s the main thing,” DeHart says. Whether or not you are the one cutting it down, it is important to get the tree in water as soon as possible, DeHart says. “If it is going to sit for two or three hours, then just make sure you recut the bottom of it so it will accept water again,” DeHart says. “When you cut a tree, it will sap over and not accept water after if you leave it out for five or six hours.” Indiana does require licensure for tree farms to sell trees with the root ball attached. The process required to harvest, maintain and, ultimately, replant the tree is quite complicated and isn’t for everyone. Additionally, the survival rate for replanted trees isn’t ideal. Those wanting to purchase a tree with the root ball still attached should do their homework as not all tree farms in Indiana offer this option. Live Christmas tree sales generally start the day after Thanksgiving. With proper watering and care, trees purchased in the wake of passing the dressing should last through Christmas day to see you through to the New Year. DAILY JOURNAL
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IN-35151219
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Wonderful walls Picture and mirror hanging 101 By CATHY HOBBS, TNS I PHOTO BY TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE
In theory, art and mirrors should be displayed in relationship to the furniture or object below it. Most people hang artwork and mirrors too high for what tends to work best in creating an aesthetically pleasing look for the eye. In many cases, hanging them so the center line falls within the range of 54 to 57 inches above the floor works best. Looking for art and mirror tips? We’ve assembled some of our favorites!
Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Awardwinning television host and a nationally known interior design home staging expert and short-term rental/vacation home designer with offices in New York City and The Hudson Valley. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.
DO’S Do hang identical abstract pieces of art in a series. Do substitute artwork for mirrors along long walls and hallways. Do use classic or black-and-white prints to create interest. Do add mirrors in a windowless space to help give the illusion of windows. Do consider telling a color story through the use of mirrors and artwork.
DON’TS
Don’t forget to pay attention to what objects are reflected in mirrors. Don’t forget to add pops color into a room through artwork. Don’t hang artwork or mirrors that are too small, as it will visually clutter a space. Don’t overlook the opportunity to create vignettes with hung artwork and mirrors. Don’t be afraid to frame travel prints captured during a favorite vacation or even children’s artwork.
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‘an interesting market’ Local Realtors say real estate transactions are trending back to traditional norms
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By Jenn Willhite | PHOTO BY ADOBE STOCK
Volatile markets and lagging home sales may have potential buyers and sellers feeling a bit queasy these days, but area Realtors say current trends in the housing market are nothing new and, in fact, are even more reason to take the plunge and seal the deal. “It’s a very interesting market,” says Patrick Watkins, Realtor with Mike Watkins Real Estate Group in Greenwood. “But nothing I haven’t been through before.” Houses are still being sold; however, it isn’t simply a matter of putting a sign in the yard and receiving multiple offers like it used to be, Watkins adds. “That ship has sailed,” he says. “We are back to traditional real estate where buyers and sellers are having to negotiate.” Market jitters and increasing interest rates have buyers and sellers alike concerned, however, in the larger scheme of things interest rates really aren’t that bad. “We were in very unprecedented times when it was three, four and five percent,” says Tanya Smythe of Smythe & Co. Real Estate Inc. in Franklin. “To my knowledge, I don’t know if that had ever happened before. I remember my dad paying 18 percent interest when he was buying a home because that was just what you did. It is all perspective.” The difference now is the days of high interest rates have become a distant memory and completely foreign to today’s buyer, Smythe adds. For perspective, it’s been nearly four decades since interest rates have reached upwards of 14 to 18 percent, Watkins says. “Everyone is looking for the crystal ball,” Watkins says. Though he doesn’t see housing prices coming down, Watkins says things could plateau or simply appear flat with little appreciation accrued compared to previous years. “You are having to think through the market,” he says. “And you have less buyers with rising inventory.” Sketchy market vibes are not only resulting in more short-term thinking and planning, but it is forcing individuals to examine alternative measures when it comes to financing their dream home. Buyers need to know, and stay within, their budget, Watkins says. “At the end of the day, it is a house, you make it a home,” he says. “And you still want to do other things. So, stay true to your budget. If it is over your budget, don’t go look at it.” To put it in perspective, if a house is reduced by $10,000, it may affect the monthly payment by $70 to $80. If mortgage insurance or a lower interest rate is nixed using the same amount of money, that could reduce the monthly payment by $180, Watkins says. “You are using the same amount of money, but you are
having a bigger effect on the buyer,” Watkins explains. “Sellers have to realize when they sell their house, they need to care what they are going to net out of their house and not what they are selling it at.” One option is the 2-1 buydown, which is a mortgage agreement where the loan’s interest rate is lowered for the first two years. The interest rate is lowest the first year with incremental increases up to the third year when the permanent rate becomes effective. The caveat to this option is that it can require a downpayment upfront. “When you do the math, it comes out a lot better to do that if the person is going to be in the home for a long time rather than pay a higher interest rate,” Smythe says. “Some are taking a chance doing an adjustable rate if they are fairly confident the rates are going to go down in the near future or if they aren’t going to be in the home long, they may do an adjustable and take their chances.” Opting for a 2-1 buydown or an adjustable-rate mortgage, in some cases, is forcing buyers to alter their idea of the ideal home. While the popularity of lakefront properties has held onto its momentum since the pandemic, many buyers are gravitating to those listings that allow for more simplistic living with added acreage for the potential of more self-sufficiency, like gardening and raising chickens, Smythe says. Homes are also sitting on the market a little longer than they were, Smythe says, however, if they are priced right and are in good condition, they are selling. “You are seeing price reductions you didn’t see a year ago,” Smythe says. People are cutting out some of the extras knowing they have a bit of a higher house payment now, while hoping in the future they are able to refinance, Watkins adds. “There’s hasn’t been much benefit on an armed product,” he says. “Buyers need to make sure they understand what that is, where the payment is today and where the payment is three years beyond.” Both buyers and sellers should do their homework, Watkins and Smythe agree. Those who are entertaining using an online Realtor or platform should exercise caution, Watkins says. With most of those contracts, the buyer can walk for any reason even up to a few days before closing. “In the open market, they are going to net more than going to online platforms,” Watkins says. “Do your research. I think reviews are great, but for buyers and sellers, do research on who you’re hiring and what they bring to the table. There’s a lot on the forefront that is coming that you need to be attuned to. Be cautious.”
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The art of nursery design
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Crafting the perfect aesthetic for your little one By katie laughridge I PHOTOs BY Tribune News Service
As a mother and a passionate advocate for creating spaces that nurture the soul, there’s a particular joy that comes with designing nurseries. These havens hold the promise of new beginnings and cherished moments, where little feet will take their first steps and laughter will fill the air. A thoughtfully designed nursery can have a profound impact on both parent
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and child. From choosing the perfect color palette to selecting the softest fabrics, every decision is infused with love and intention. Join me on a tour through the art of nursery design, where we’ll explore timeless aesthetics, modern twists and the heartwarming magic that transforms these spaces into sanctuaries of comfort and dreams.
A PLAYFUL SYMPHONY OF BLUE AND RED Nell Hill’s designer Liz once embarked on a creative venture with a client seeking the perfect gender-neutral haven for their little one. As she explored an array of fabrics, she stumbled upon a curated few that give off a sense of playfulness without leaning on traditional gender associations. Among the fabrics, a teal and red color palette emerged, catching our attention with its liveliness. The antelope pattern presented itself as a versatile backdrop, offering a canvas of neutral tones to accentuate with lively splashes of color. While our final design may have taken a different path, this particular combination resonated deeply with me, showcasing the endless possibilities that could have been explored with an unlimited budget. It’s a reminder that in the realm of design, the journey is just as enchanting as the destination.
A SERENE JUNGLE OASIS Step into a tranquil oasis of soft blues and greens, where imagination takes root with comfort-filled textures. This design, curated by our designer Taylor, celebrates the boundless wonders of the jungle without surrendering to, shall we say, more juvenile motifs. The cornerstone fabric features zebras and bamboo, giving a sense of wilderness while ensuring a timeless appeal that will grow with the kiddo. Rich textures and fabrics intertwine, inviting tactile exploration and visual intrigue. Each corner whispers tales of nature’s beauty with meticulous trims and details. The bugs, brought to life by a mesmerizing Samuel & Sons beaded trim and a captivating lamp, dance in unison, adding a touch of whimsy to the serene ambiance. This nursery strikes a delicate balance, embracing a boyish essence without compromising the room’s charm.
STRAWBERRY FIELDS FOREVER Designer Anne was inspired by the vibrancy of the delightful fruit. This design weaves a tapestry of colors and textures that reflect its essence. From artwork that showcases strawberries to fabrics adorned with their luscious forms, the motif dances across the room with grace. The infusion of reds, greens and creams creates a refreshing and inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of a sunlit garden. The sweet strawberry-shaped lamp casts a warm and gentle glow, adding a whimsical touch that captures the heart. The cohesiveness of the design is harmoniously achieved through the artful use of scale — the green and white woven fabric is offset with a gingham pattern, creating visual interest. The range of red tones, from subdued to vivid, paints a canvas of depth and emotion, mirroring the varied shades of strawberries themselves. Creating these spaces is not just about combining colors and fabrics; it’s about crafting a space where dreams take root and memories unfold. Nurturing the imagination of my own two little ones and witnessing their worlds come to life is a privilege that fills my heart. We believe the magic of design lies in the details, textures and colors that weave together to create a tapestry of love and comfort. As you embark on your own nursery design journey, remember that the most beautiful spaces are those that reflect your personal story, infusing your heart into every corner. Katie Laughridge is the owner of Kansas City interior design destination Nell Hill’s. For more information, contact Katie at info@nellhills.com.
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Delightful accents
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Throw pillows are delightful accents that add personality, comfort and style to any space. But without proper care, they can lose their luster over time. Whether you have a collection of vibrant decorative pillows or cozy accent cushions, we’re here to share essential tips and tricks to keep them looking their best. From the life cycle of a pillow, to cleaning techniques and storage solutions, let’s explore the secrets to maintaining the longevity and beauty of your throw pillows.
THE PROCESS OF CREATING A PILLOW
I think it’s important to first understand how a custom pillow is made, to better appreciate the care that goes into maintaining the pieces. Crafting our throw pillows by hand is a meticulous and artful process that ensures the utmost attention to detail and quality. We begin by selecting the dimensions of the pillow we want to create, which determines the size of the pillow fill. This is followed by choosing the perfect pattern placement. Pillow fronts and backs are then cut by hand, intentionally finished 1 inch smaller than the fill to achieve the beautifully overstuffed look we love. If trims are incorporated, they are thoughtfully sewn to the fronts in a vertical, horizontal or framed design. For those who desire monograms
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A guide for caring for your throw pillows By katie laughridge PHOTOs BY Tribune News Service
or other added designs, they are carefully embroidered onto the fronts. Next, we carefully select the perimeter trim, which can vary from contrast cording to self-welt, 1-inch flange, ruffled edges, knife pleats and more, providing various options to suit individual tastes. A hidden zipper is then attached to the bottom with a back flap, allowing effortless pillow sham change-up seasonally. Once the fronts and backs are sewn together, turned and pressed, we add the finishing touch of our label, discreetly tucked under the zipper flap. Each and every pillow we create is a labor of love, meticulously sewn together by professional seamstresses who share a deep passion for their craft. We take immense pride in crafting pillows that are not only functional and comfortable, but also works of art that enhance any spaces they adorn.
OPT FOR A PLUMP PILLOW LOOK To achieve a fuller and more luxurious look, choose a pillow insert that is slightly larger than the size of the sham. This technique creates a plump and inviting appearance, adding an extra touch of opulence to your pillows. We make our custom shams 1 inch smaller than the fill to
achieve the really full look. By selecting a fill that extends beyond the sham edges, you can achieve a beautifully overstuffed look that exudes elegance and comfort. This pillow styling technique ensures that your pillows become a focal point of your decor, providing a touch of lavishness to any room. Our fills are typically a goose/down mixture, but it is a completely customizable experience. Synthetic fill is a fantastic option for people with allergies. (One thing to keep in mind is a synthetic fill doesn’t have the same fullness as and feel of down.) We believe that ordering pillows should allow you to create a room as unique as you are, and be tailored to your unique preferences.
STORING YOUR THROW PILLOWS One of the best things about throw pillows is they are easy to swap with the seasons, and they can absolutely transform the look of a room with each new succession. This is a trick Mary Carol Garrity uses to refresh spaces in her own home. But when it comes to storing your throw pillows that are not in use, proper care is key to ensure their longevity. Typically, I reuse the inserts and rotate and store the shams. Before stashing them away, though, it’s essential to clean the pillows according to their specific material and care instructions. Once they are clean and dry, consider using breathable storage bags or pillowcases to protect them from dust, dirt, and potential damage. Avoid storing them in plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and lead to mildew or odors. Find a cool, dry and well-ventilated area to store your pillows, away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures and humidity. If space allows, try to store them in a horizontal position to maintain their shape. By taking these simple storage precautions, you can ensure that your throw pillows remain fresh, plump and ready to adorn your living spaces whenever you decide to bring them back out. When it comes to handling your pillows, it’s essential to follow proper care techniques to maintain their pristine appearance. Avoid the temptation to grab them by the corners (or even a single corner, gasp!) and toss them around. Instead, opt for a gentle approach by scooping them up from the sides or grasping them at the top and bottom. This technique prevents distortion of the fabric. Grabbing the corners can lead to stretched-out corners, which can detract from the overall aesthetic of your pillows — not a good look.
CLEANING YOUR THROW PILLOWS When it comes to caring for custom throw pillows, bedding and draperies, we highly recommend opting for professional dry cleaning. This method ensures that your cherished pieces are handled with the utmost care, preventing any potential shrinkage and maintaining their original color vibrancy. Dry cleaning is particularly beneficial for delicate fabrics and intricate designs, as it helps preserve their beauty and longevity. Trusting the expertise of professional cleaners will give you peace of mind.. To freshen up feather pillow inserts, a simple and effective method is to place them in a tumble dryer on low heat for about 10 minutes. This gentle process helps fluff up the feathers. It’s important to avoid high heat, which can damage the feathers. Additionally, adding a clean tennis ball or dryer balls can aid in the fluffing process by gently agitating the pillows. Taking proper care of your throw pillows is essential for preserving their beauty and functionality. By following these tips and techniques, you can extend the lifespan of your pillows and ensure they continue to enhance your home decor for years to come. Katie Laughridge is the owner of Kansas City interior design destination Nell Hill’s. Contact Katie at info@nellhills.com. DAILY JOURNAL
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Color inspiration for a comforting, relaxing home By FAMILY FEATURES
Updating your home can provide the perfect opportunity to explore new design styles or refresh living spaces with a new color scheme. In fact, a coat of paint can help set the mood for entire rooms in your home. By turning to nature-inspired designs, you can create a sense of comfort and relaxation. A hybrid color, like Valspar’s 2024 Color of the Year, Renew Blue, is gentle and airy with a touch of blue to set a restful and meditative mood. The grayed sea green — inspired by fleeting things such as fog, mist, clouds and glacier lakes — is a seasonless and versatile hue that features a mid-tone blue with warm
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undertones and can be used in outdoor living spaces and four-season rooms alike. “This mid-tone shade has become popular for wellness environments over the years due to its low saturation level, which evokes a sense of rest and calm,” said Sue Kim, Valspar’s director of color marketing. “The harmonious green and blue open the possibility for outdoor applications, blurring the boundary between interior and exterior.” To help elevate the mood in your home, consider implementing Renew Blue into one of these popular design trends that can update the look of nearly any of your indoor or outdoor spaces.
COASTAL Coastal looks are timeless designs that have remained relevant for years because of their positive correlation to calming beach locations. Perfect for outdoor spaces like the backyard, you can implement a more curated and personal take on the trend by shifting from “typical” coastal design that pairs beachy hues with natural textures like rope, driftwood and wicker to something more classic and natural like the Cape Cod variation by working in some nautical touches like anchors, oars or seashells.
MODERN FARMHOUSE In the entryway, using beautiful and functional decor, such as unique ceramics and handwoven textiles, helps usher in a modern rustic style. By using timeless tones and accents, as well as layering heritage art, you can create visual mystery while elevating the ordinary to make your home feel warm and welcoming to guests from the moment they walk through the door.
NORDIC COMFORT Modern Traditional is a style that came together over time, and the Hygge look is a refined take. It pulls elementary cues from traditional farmhouse style but has shaker-inspired elements mixed in and is done with a slightly modern twist. It can make a larger space like the kitchen feel welcoming, open, carefully curated and warm.
MODERN BOHO Boho is a nature-loving and free-spirited style connected to earthy and botanical elements. From handmade decor to vintage metallic finishes, this style reimagines the past and elevates everyday spaces like bathrooms into personal retreats designed with wellness in mind.
PASTEL WABI-SABI Leaning into the modern sentiment of “less is more,” this style reflects a naturally minimalist design aesthetic and showcases color coordination with mood-boosting hues and joyful color. Perfect for nurseries and other spaces that should be bright and welcoming, pieces with pared-back, welcoming shapes and silhouettes that allow quality natural materials to shine are perfect for decorating the room. Visit Valspar.com to find more on-trend home design inspiration and order up to 10 free paint chips to be delivered to your home to see how your favorite colors will fit your space. DAILY JOURNAL
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finding Beauty in chaos
Understanding cluttercore and clustercore By katie laughridge I PHOTO BY adobe stock
When it comes to home design, two seemingly similar concepts have gained attention in the online world in recent years: cluttercore and clustercore. While they share similarities, a few key differences set them apart. Cluttercore and clustercore represent two contrasting philosophies when it comes to organizing and displaying personal belongings. Ultimately, both cluttercore and clustercore offer unique ways to infuse personality and creativity into home design, allowing you to express your individuality through your living spaces.
story. Clustercore strikes a balance between showcasing personal items and maintaining a sense of order. It encourages thoughtful curation and careful placement to achieve a harmonious and visually striking space. Clustercore enthusiasts pay attention to the relationship between objects, considering color schemes, textures and shapes to create a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing arrangement. Each cluster becomes a focal point within the space, capturing attention and inviting exploration. It encourages a mindful approach to showcasing personal belongings while maintaining balance.
What is cluttercore? Cluttercore finds beauty in the chaos, embracing the idea that a space can be filled with items that bring joy and nostalgia. It encourages a sense of comfort and familiarity, where every nook and cranny tells a story. Cluttercore enthusiasts often prioritize sentimentality over minimalism, allowing their homes to become a reflection of their personal journeys and experiences. Functionally, it embraces a more haphazard approach, where an abundance of objects and knickknacks are intentionally scattered throughout a space, creating a cozy and lived-in atmosphere. It celebrates the beauty of imperfection and embraces the sentimental value of personal belongings.
Re-creating the looks at home Creating a cluttercore look in your home involves embracing imperfection and creating a space filled with cherished objects and personal mementos. Start by curating a collection of items that hold sentimental value or evoke happy memories. They could be vintage trinkets, family heirlooms or quirky finds from flea markets. Embrace the concept of organized chaos by strategically placing the objects throughout your space. Avoid strict organization and instead allow your belongings to be casually scattered and displayed on shelves, tabletops and even walls. Embrace an eclectic mix of textures, colors and patterns to add visual interest and depth. The key is to create a space that feels cozy and filled with stories. To achieve a clustercore look, it’s important to strike a balance between intentional curation and visual appeal. Start by selecting a few key items that hold sentimental value or reflect your personal interests. They could
What is clustercore? On the other hand, clustercore takes a more curated and intentional approach. It involves grouping objects and decor in deliberate clusters, creating captivating focal points that draw the eye and tell a 16 HOME TRENDS MAGAZINE
include cherished photographs, vintage treasures or artwork. Next, consider the composition of your clusters. Arrange items in groups of varying sizes, heights and textures to create visual interest. Experiment with different arrangements until you find a configuration that feels harmonious and visually captivating. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles and eras to add depth and character to your clusters. Remember to consider the surrounding space and ensure that the clusters complement the overall aesthetic of the room. By curating thoughtfully arranged clusters, you can create striking focal points that tell a story and infuse your home with the enchanting allure of clustercore. I am continually inspired by how these design philosophies can transform a space. Cluttercore celebrates the joy that comes from surrounding ourselves with cherished belongings, while clustercore invites us to curate intentional arrangements that captivate the eye. Both styles offer opportunities for self-expression and creativity in home design. Whether you prefer the cozy chaos of cluttercore or the curated compositions of clustercore, the styles remind us that our homes are not just spaces, but reflections of our personalities and journeys. So let’s embrace the allure of clutter and the art of clustering as we design spaces that truly feel like home. Katie Laughridge is the owner of Kansas City interior design destination Nell Hill’s. For more information, contact Katie at info@ nellhills.com.
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GET Winter ready
6 tips to prepare for cold and snow
Weather fluctuations are the norm these days, and cold winter weather is on the horizon. This winter, don’t get caught out in the cold when it comes to heating costs. There are things you can do now to help save money by reducing your energy consumption. Consider these tips from the experts at Carrier to help you reduce usage and home heating costs this season. 1. One of the easiest ways to save on your heating bill is turning the heat down to the lowest setting you are comfortable with. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, turning the temperature down an additional 10-15 F while you are sleeping or away can help save about 10% a year on energy costs. 2. Installing a programmable thermostat can make turning down the heat automatic. Depending on the model, you can set different temperatures for when you are home, away or asleep. Better yet, a WiFi-connected smart thermostat can make automatic adjust-
By family features | PHOTO BY unsplash
ments and is controllable remotely using a smartphone. 3. Keep up with regular maintenance of your home heating system so it runs efficiently. Change your filter as recommended by the manufacturer and have a professional conduct an inspection and tune-up before the weather gets cold and appointments become harder to get. A dirty or clogged furnace filter can cause your furnace to work harder than needed and waste energy in the process. According to the experts at Carrier, regular, routine maintenance and cleaning can help your furnace run more efficiently and potentially extend its life. 4. The average life of a furnace is 15-20 years, so be prepared when it comes time to replace. Oftentimes, people wait to buy a new furnace until their current system breaks down and have to resort to buying what’s in stock. Planning ahead lets you shop for a system that’s right for your home and preferences. Right now may be a good time
to consider replacing your aging furnace with available manufacturer promotions, energy company incentives and tax credits associated with the Inflation Reduction Act. 5. If you replace your furnace, consider switching to a high efficiency model. They offer a higher level of comfort and energy cost savings. Many homeowners are opting for higher efficiency heat pumps, units that handle both heating and cooling. They are powered by electricity and a growing choice for consumers who want to use less fossil fuels. For example, Carrier’s award-winning Infinity line is among the most energy efficient on the market and operates down to -15 F. 6. Check for drafts around doors, windows and other openings. Seal with caulk or weatherstripping. Also, ensure your home is insulated properly. Some utility companies offer to check your home’s insulation for free. Having less cold air to heat can yield considerable cost savings. DAILY JOURNAL
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Stormy weather
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After extreme weather events, it’s common to evaluate exterior home products and to feel a sense of urgency about replacing them if they’re not providing proper protection. One addition that homeowners should consider is a storm door, however, experts say it’s important not to rush the decision. “Storm doors provide insulation, curb appeal and weather protection for the entry door, but they are not one-size-fits-all,” said Brandon Morris, entry and storm door product manager at ProVia, a manufacturer that carries several brands of customizable aluminum storm doors. “Before making a purchase, first determine your needs and style preferences.” To help homeowners make sense of their options, ProVia is offering this round-up of essential factors to consider:
CONSTRUCTION To reap the maximum benefits a storm door can provide, take thickness and construction into consideration. Those offered by ProVia all feature an aluminum wall thickness 20% greater than industry standard, to provide greater protection to your entry door, along with stability and durability for long-term use. Most brands they carry also have multi-hollow construction, which translates to greater strength and security than standard storm doors.
STYLE Storm doors are not always just functional. Certain manufacturers understand that they are a home element that can boost curb appeal, too. Decorative storm doors come with options like beveled glass, stained glass, and privacy glass, adding visual appeal 18 HOME TRENDS MAGAZINE
Everything you need to know about storm doors By statepoint
and a unique artistic statement where you least expect. Different colors and multiple options in hardware styles and finishes allow the storm door to blend in with your exterior design, whether that’s traditional and understated or ultramodern and eye-catching.
GLASS The type of glass you choose can maximize energy efficiency. Low emissivity (Low-E) glass doors, for example, have a thin, invisible coating that reduces infrared and ultraviolet light coming through the door glass. In winter, Low-E glass lets radiant heat pass through, but doesn’t allow it to come back out, for a cozier interior. And in summer, it helps keep heat out. Low-E glass also features UV protection that can prevent fading of items inside your home. Storm doors with removable glass panels and retractable screens enable airflow and crucial ventilation between the storm and entry doors while letting the design of the entryway shine.
ACCESSORIES Accessories can create additional functionality for your storm door. Have a furry friend who needs regular outdoor access? Consider a doggie door so they can come and go as they please. Some manufacturers offer this option in multiple sizes to fit your pet’s needs. No streetside mailbox on your property? Add a mail slot to your storm door. Other optional features, such as a piano hinge and bottom expander, and an easy release closer, can help your storm door operate more smoothly while ensuring it’s custom-fit to eliminate drafts.
FALL 2022
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Summer 2023
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MARTIN FINE FURNITURE
Above: Martin Fine Furniture is located at 5420 S. East St. on the southside of Indianapolis. Below: John McDermott and Suzanne Sherman are the fourth generation to own and operate the business.
artin Fine Furniture has been serving community since 1854. arty McDermott, past president and esake of the oldest furniture business diana, was the third generation to run company that was founded in 1854 is great grandfather, Michael Clune. zanne Sherman and John McDermott the fourth generation in the family to t rol ownership of Mar tin Fine iture. Known for their custom ordering quality of products offered, Martins the service and experience to back all products carried for furnishing the e interior. ur commitment to providing a wide ction of beautiful furniture to choose from remains our top priority. We y beautiful items for every room of your home and deal with more 100 different manufactures. ur living room furniture includes sofas, sectionals, loveseats, sleeper s, chairs and recliners. We carry accent tables and ottomans to plete your room. For storage, we of fer cabinets, chests and kshelves. ur bedroom furniture comes in styles to suit every member of the
family. From canopy, captain, sle poster beds to bunk beds and c carry an impressive collection. Y everything you need to furnish a in our store, including benches vanities, mirrors, dressers, nigh headboards and accents. Our dining room furniture inclu traditional and contemporary ta chair sets, as well as bar stools, cabinets, hutches, buf fets, mirr more. For the entertainment or family r have media consoles and wall unit And for your home office, we of chairs, bookcases and cabinets. As past customers know, Martin Fine Furniture is the best kept furniture selection on the southside of Indy. The tag line used f “you got that right” will re-confirm our commitment to staying in as a locally owned store that will accommodate custom orders. F is also available in-store. If you’re considering visiting area furniture stores, be sure to Martin Fine Furniture, which is conveniently located in south Ind near I-465. Contact us for directions or with any questions you ma
Save big in store with 35,000 sq ft of home furnishings!
Address: 5420 S. East St., Indianapolis, IN 46227 Telephone: 317-787-8659 Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 to 6 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Website: www.martinfinefurnitureonline.com
5420 S East St | Indianapolis, IN | 317.787.8659 MartinFineFurnitureOnline.com Indiana’s oldest Furniture Store Family owned since 1854.