Santa Cruz Market Experts 30 Years Combined Experience Clear, Responsive Client Communication Elegant, High-End Marketing Campaigns Full-Service Project Management Interior & Exterior Design + Staging Concierge-Level | White Glove Support
CONSIDERING BUYING OR SELLING A HOME? CALL US TODAY!
Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and take the first step toward your next move—with confidence, style, and expert guidance.
Kathleen Manning Broker Associate 831.566.3127
KathleenManning.com DRE: 00885315
02237736
20 ... Coastal Kitchens
8 ... Top 10 Mosquito-Repelling Plants
14 ... Designing the Ultimate Outdoor Living Space
44 ... Maximizing Natural Light as the Days Shorten
32 ... Fall Coastal Wreaths with Eucalyptus, Pampas Grass & Sea Finds
IN THE GARDEN
Top 10 MosquitoRepelling Plants
1. Citronella Grass: Natural mosquito repellent with strong lemony scent.
2. Lavender: Fragrant barrier against mosquitoes, also attracts pollinators.
3. Marigolds: Bright blooms with pest-repelling properties, contain pyrethrum.
4. Basil: Culinary herb with mosquito-repelling oils, great for kitchen gardens.
5. Chives: A member of the Allium family (think leeks, onions and shallots) chives are a perennial and are excellent at helping keep mosquitos at bay.
6. Rosemary: Aromatic herb that repels mosquitoes, thrives in sunny conditions.
7. Mint: Refreshing scent that mosquitoes dislike, plant in containers to control spread.
8. Catnip: This feline favorite repels mosquitoes and other insects as well. When rubbed on your skin, Catnip is a alternative to store-bought sprays.
9. Sage: Versatile herb with mosquito-repelling qualities, great for cooking.
10. Geraniums: Beautiful blooms with protective properties, repel mosquitoes.
Tips for Effective Mosquito Control
1. Plant multiple species to create a diverse, prosperous and effective mosquito-repelling garden.
2. Strategically place plants around seating areas, patios, walkways, and entry points.
3. Ensure proper spacing for air circulation and consider companion planting multiple varieties.
4. Regularly prune and deadhead plants to maintain their longevity, health and effectiveness.
By using these plants in your garden or outdoor space, you can create a natural and effective mosquito-repelling environment. Enjoy your summers outside barbecueing, gardening and enjoying your yard free of these pests.
INSIDE THE HOME
Popular Interior Paint Colors and Making a Room Look Larger
For Fall/Winter of 2025, the most popular interior paint colors are leaning toward warm, comforting, and natureinspired tones. Here are some of the top trends:
1. Earthy Greens: Muted olive, sage, and mossy greens remain favorites, evoking a sense of calm and connection to nature.
2. Warm Neutrals: Soft taupe, beige, and creamy off-whites are popular for creating cozy and versatile backdrops. With an open, airy feeling.
3. Burnt Orange & Terracotta: Rich, sunbaked oranges and claylike terracottas add warmth and a touch of rustic charm.
4. Dusky Blues: Deep, smoky blues, like a stormy sky or denim, add sophistication and tranquility, especially in bedrooms and living spaces.
5. Golden Yellows: Muted, honeyed yellows and ochres bring a cheerful yet grounded vibe.
6. Deep Burgundy & Plum: These moody, luxurious shades are trending for accent walls or smaller spaces, adding depth and drama.
Tips for making a room look larger with color:
• Use the same light color on walls and ceiling to blur boundaries and make the space feel seamless.
• Paint trim and moldings a shade lighter than the walls to create the illusion of depth.
• Opt for a monochromatic palette with variations of one color to reduce visual clutter.
• Choose finishes with a slight sheen (like eggshell or satin), which reflect more light than matte finishes.
Overall, sticking to light, cool, and neutral colors is the best way to visually expand a room and make it feel more open.
Interior Designers Favor Wood Walls
Wood walls are very popular this year and projected into next year for interior designers and homeowners. They are embracing natural materials and textures, and wood walls –whether in the form of paneling, shiplap, slat walls, or even reclaimed wood features – are seeing a strong resurgence.
Key trends for wood walls in 2025:
• Natural Finishes: Lighter, natural wood tones (like oak, ash, and maple) are favored for creating a relaxed, Scandinavianinspired look.
• Sustainable Choices: Reclaimed and sustainably sourced woods are in demand, aligning with increased interest in ecofriendly interiors.
• Textured Surfaces: Fluted or slatted wood panels are used to add depth and architectural interest, especially as accent walls or behind headboards.
• Mixing Materials: Pairing wood with painted walls, stone, or metal elements for a balanced, modern aesthetic.
• Warmth & Comfort: Wood walls are chosen to add warmth and a sense of coziness, especially in living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices.
Overall, wood walls are not just a passing trend in 2025 – they are a key element in creating inviting, stylish, and nature and coastal-inspired spaces. That adds comfort and warmth to your home.
OUTSIDE THE HOME
Designing the Ultimate Outdoor Living Space
An outdoor living space can transform your backyard into a destination for entertaining, relaxation, and family time. By incorporating thoughtful features like an outdoor kitchen, fire pit, and televisions, you can enjoy the comforts of home in the beauty of the outdoors. Here’s how to design the ultimate outdoor living area that will be the envy of your neighborhood.
Outdoor Kitchen: Culinary Convenience Al Fresco
No outdoor living space is complete without a fully equipped kitchen. Consider weather-resistant materials such as stainless steel, stone, and tile for longevity and easy maintenance. A builtin grill, refrigerator, sink, and prep area make outdoor cooking a breeze. Add bar seating or a dining table nearby so guests can gather as you prepare meals. For extra flair, consider adding a pizza oven or smoker to expand your culinary options.
Fire Pit: The Heart of Outdoor Gatherings
A fire pit acts as a natural gathering spot, providing both warmth and ambiance. Whether you choose a gas, propane, or traditional wood-burning model, position your fire pit at the center of a comfortable seating arrangement. Weatherproof sofas, Adirondack chairs, or built-in benches encourage conversation and relaxation. Surround the area with lanterns or string lights for a magical evening glow.
Continued on page 16 ...
Entertainment Zone: TVs for Every Occasion
With weatherproof televisions, you can bring the big game or your favorite movies outdoors. Mount TVs in shaded or covered areas to reduce glare and protect them from the elements. Pair your TV setup with a robust outdoor sound system for immersive viewing. Create a lounge area with cozy furnishings, outdoor rugs, and side tables to mimic the comfort of your indoor living room.
Design Cohesion and Comfort
To tie the space together, coordinate your color palette and materials for a seamless look. Use planters, privacy screens, or pergolas to define zones and add greenery. Invest in durable, comfortable furniture and weather-resistant textiles to ensure your space looks inviting year-round.
Lighting plays a crucial role in creating ambiance and extending the usability of your outdoor living space after sunset. Mix different types of lighting to achieve both functionality and atmosphere: use string lights or fairy lights overhead for a festive touch, lanterns or hurricane lamps on tabletops for warmth, and recessed or pathway lights to guide guests safely around the area.
Consider installing dimmable sconces or LED strip lights under counters and seating for a modern effect. Solar-powered lights
are an energy-efficient option for accentuating garden beds and walkways. With layered lighting, you can enjoy your backyard oasis long into the evening, no matter the occasion.
With an outdoor kitchen for culinary adventures, a fire pit for gatherings, and TVs for entertainment, your backyard becomes a true extension of your home. Design your outdoor living space to reflect your lifestyle, and enjoy the best of indoor comfort in the open air.
Creating the Perfect Fall Tablescape
Inspiring Ideas for a Cozy Gathering
As autumn arrives and leaves begin to turn vibrant shades of gold and crimson, many of us look forward to cozy gatherings with friends and family. One of the best ways to celebrate the season is by designing a fall tablescape—a thoughtfully styled table that reflects the warmth and beauty of fall. Here’s how you can create a stunning fall tablescape indoors or outdoors that your guests will love, and make every meal feel like a special occasion.
Start With a Seasonal Foundation
Begin by choosing a tablecloth or runner that sets the tone for your tablescape. Natural fabrics like linen or burlap in earthy tones—think burnt orange, deep red, or rich brown—work beautifully. Layering with placemats or chargers made from wood or woven materials adds texture and depth.
Incorporate Nature’s Bounty
Bring the outdoors in by using seasonal fruits, vegetables, and foliage as part of your centerpiece. Arrange small pumpkins, gourds, and squash down the center of the table. Intertwine branches of eucalyptus, maple leaves, or sprigs of wheat for a rustic, organic look. Scatter pinecones or acorns for extra charm.
Play
With Warm, Autumnal Colors
Select dinnerware and napkins in warm hues—rust, mustard yellow, olive green, or plum—to evoke the feeling of fall. Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns for a more eclectic, collected look. Gold or copper flatware and candle holders add a touch of elegance.
Add Layers and Personal Touches
Stack plates of varying sizes and use cloth napkins tied with twine or ribbon. Tuck in a sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick for fragrance and visual appeal. Handwritten place cards or mini pumpkins at each setting make guests feel welcome and add a thoughtful detail to your design.
Illuminate With Candlelight or twinkle lights
Candles are essential for creating a cozy fall atmosphere. Mix pillar candles, votives, and tea lights in varying heights along your centerpiece. Unscented candles are best to avoid overpowering the delicious aromas of your meal. Twinkle lights add romance and fun to your tablescape.
Final Flourishes
Finish your tablescape with a few personal touches. A small bowl of seasonal fruit, a cluster of autumn blooms, adds character and charm.
A well-designed fall tablescape brings the beauty of the season indoors or outdoors and sets the scene for memorable meals. With a little creativity and attention to detail, you can create a welcoming table that celebrates the rich colors and textures of autumn.
AT THE TABLE
• Natural Stone
• Landscape Supplies
• Boulders
• Decorative Rock
• Pavers
• Sand and Aggregate
• Retaining Walls
• Block
• Mirafi Geotextiles
• Concrete Sacked Goods
INSIDE THE HOME
Coastal Kitchens
The Central Coast of California, known for its coastal lifestyle and relaxed atmosphere, has seen some new kitchen trends emerging recently. These trends blend modern designs with natural, local elements, often reflecting the area’s appreciation for both style and sustainability. Here are some of the latest kitchen trends in that area:
1. Sustainable and Eco-friendly Materials
• Reclaimed Wood: A favorite in the Central Coast, reclaimed wood is used for everything from cabinetry to countertops and flooring. It’s a nod to sustainability and adds a rustic, beachy charm.
• Bamboo: As a fast-growing, renewable material, bamboo is becoming popular in cabinetry and countertops.
• Recycled Materials: Countertops made from recycled glass, quartz, and even concrete are gaining traction. They’re ecofriendly and have a cool, industrial look.
2. Indoor-Outdoor Living
• Open Floor Plans: Kitchens that open up to patios or decks are a huge trend. With the Central Coast’s mild weather, many homeowners are extending their kitchen space to outdoor living areas, creating seamless transitions between indoors and outdoors.
• Sliding Glass Doors: Large glass doors that open to a backyard or balcony are common. These doors allow for natural light and fresh air, and they often become a focal point in the kitchen.
3. Coastal & Rustic Design Elements
• Natural Light: Kitchens that utilize natural light, often through skylights, wide windows, or open shelving, are becoming more popular. These spaces feel airy and connect with the outdoor environment.
• Blue and White Palettes: Inspired by the nearby coastline, many kitchens feature soft blues, seafoam greens, and whites. This color scheme reflects the region’s natural beauty and creates a calming, beachinspired aesthetic.
• Textured Surfaces: Natural stone, driftwood-inspired finishes, and terracotta tiles are used to add warmth and texture. These materials help create a laid-back, earthy vibe while still being sophisticated.
4. Smart Kitchens
• Smart Appliances: The integration of technology is big. From smart fridges that help you keep track of groceries to ovens you can control with your voice or phone, technology is increasingly embedded in kitchen design.
Continued on page 22 ...
• Touchless Faucets: Especially in areas where water conservation is important, touchless faucets are being used for their convenience and water-saving benefits.
5. Local & Artisan Products
• Handcrafted Finishes: Many homeowners are turning to local artisans for custom cabinetry or countertops. Handmade ceramic tiles or unique, one-of-a-kind lighting fixtures are often incorporated to add a touch of personality.
• Locally Sourced Ingredients: The Central Coast is known for its farm-to-table culture, and that extends into kitchen design. Many kitchens are equipped with herb gardens, farm sinks, and high-end appliances that support the trend of preparing fresh, local meals.
7. Statement Lighting
• Industrial & Coastal Lighting: Overhead lighting is used as a statement piece in many coastal kitchens. From industrial-
style pendant lights to coastal-inspired lanterns, these pieces often double as both functional and decorative elements.
8. Bold Countertop Choices
• Marble and Quartz: High-end stone countertops, especially marble and quartz with veining, are popular in kitchens. These materials bring sophistication while also reflecting the coastal, organic aesthetic.
9. Health and Wellness Focus
• Air Purifiers & Ventilation: With an emphasis on wellness, some kitchens are incorporating better air filtration systems and ventilation to improve indoor air quality.
• Water Filtration Systems: As part of a greater focus on health, many kitchens now feature advanced water filtration systems, ensuring the cleanest and healthiest water for cooking and drinking.
R EA L ESTATE
Santa Cruz 2025 Market Snapshot
Santa Cruz County Housing Statistics
Santa Cruz County Housing Statistics
OUTSIDE THE HOME
Top 7 Reasons to Invest in Multi-Family ADUs
1. Investment Diversity
Adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is not only an easy way to increase the value of your property but also helps bring in more revenue. The best thing is that it won’t require the waiting time and mess of on-site construction. All you have to do is- get the permits in place, pour a foundation, and wait for your dwelling unit to be craned into place, and you’re ready to rent it out and reap the benefits.
2. Reliable Income
Depending on the rules and regulations in your area, you can easily rent an ADU out nightly or monthly. ADUs increase your property value and investment diversity, and it also brings in steady revenue as well.
3.
Return on Investment
As the cost of an additional dwelling unit is relatively feasible, the rental income begins to make up the cost and adds value to your property instantly. This way the cost of any dwelling unit is quickly returned after you have it added to your multi-family property. Soon after the rental income completely pays for the ADU, an investor starts seeing a profit from the investment that benefits them in the future.
4.
Leverage for Future Investments
The addition of a multi-family property ADU has the added benefit of increasing the property value. Should you decide to borrow money for a future property or business endeavor, the increased holdings act as an added benefit. In simple words, the more assets you own, the stronger your position will be as an investor to make investments in the future.
5. Adds Value to Your Property for Multi-generations
ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) add value to properties for multi-generational living by providing separate, private spaces for aging parents, adult children, or caregivers, while also enhancing the property’s overall market value and creating potential rental income. This flexible housing solution fosters closer family connections, offers costeffective support for caregiving, and provides a secure investment by future-proofing the property for changing family needs.
6. Financial and Practical Benefits
Increased Property Value: Homes with ADUs are often more desirable and marketable, leading to increased property worth and potential long-term financial gains. Rental Income Potential: The ADU can serve as a longterm rental, providing a new revenue stream to help offset mortgage payments or property taxes. Versatile & Adaptable Space: The ADU can serve multiple purposes over the years, adapting to changing family dynamics and needs, such as a guest house or home office.
7. Tax Advantages
One of the prime benefits of owning and managing a multi-family rental property is deductions. This includes the addition of an ADU, which you can usually make a deduction for based on operating costs if you are bringing in any revenue.
OUTSIDE THE HOME
Fall Coastal Wreaths with Eucalyptus, Pampas Grass & Sea Finds
Natural textures meet seaside charm in these elegant, earthy creations
Fall on the Central coast isn't about fiery foliage and pumpkin patches – it's a gentler shift. The skies soften, the ocean air cools, and the native plants turn golden. It’s a season that invites reflection and natural beauty. What better way to celebrate it than by crafting a coastal-inspired wreath using elements right from your surroundings?
Combining eucalyptus, pampas grass, and seaside treasures, fall wreaths can bring that laid-back coastal elegance to your front door, dining table, or mantel. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or new to crafting, this project connects you to the season – and to the natural beauty just outside your door.
Materials You’ll Need
Most of these can be gathered from your yard, local trails, or beach walks. Just be mindful of protected areas – always collect responsibly.
For the wreath:
• Grapevine or wire wreath base (12–18” is a good size)
• Floral wire or hot glue gun
• Pruning shears or floral scissors
Natural materials:
• Dried eucalyptus branches (seeded or silver dollar varieties work beautifully)
• Fluffy pampas grass or fountain grass plumes
• Driftwood pieces (lightweight)
• Seashells, sea glass, or small sand dollars
• Optional: dried lunaria, bunny tails, bleached ruscus, or pods
Decorative accents (optional):
• Velvet ribbon in coastal tones (sage, rust, cream)
• Small pumpkins (faux or dried)
• Brass or copper wire accents
How to Make It
1. Prep Your Base
Start with a grapevine wreath or a wire ring wrapped in raffia. This gives a natural, earthy starting point. If you’re using wire, cover it with floral tape or twine for a softer look.
2. Build Your Green Base
Layer your eucalyptus branches first, securing them with floral wire as you go. Work in one direction for a flowing look, or do a half-moon design for a modern asymmetrical vibe.
3. Add Pampas Grass
Tuck in plumes of pampas grass. These add softness and volume. Trim them short for a tidier wreath, or let them sweep outward for a more wild, airy aesthetic.
4. Incorporate Sea Finds
Nestle in your driftwood pieces, shells, or sea glass using hot glue. Keep it balanced – group smaller items together in clusters for impact rather than spacing them out evenly.
5. Finish with Details
Add pops of contrast with dried flowers or metallic wire for a little sparkle. Wrap a velvet ribbon at the base or let it trail for a romantic finish.
About the Program
Fall Mood Board
IN THE GARDEN
Fall and Winter Gardens for the Central Coast
The coast of California enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate with cool, foggy summers and relatively warm winters, making it ideal for growing a variety of cool-season vegetables in fall and winter.
Here are some of the best vegetables to plant in this region during those seasons:
These vegetables thrive in cooler temperatures and can handle the coastal fog and mild winter chill. For the best results, plant seeds or seedlings in early fall. Mulching and good drainage help protect young plants from heavy rains. Since the coast rarely experiences frost, most of these crops can be harvested throughout winter and into early spring.
Here are specific planting tips and suggested varieties for fall and winter vegetable gardening on the California coast:
1. Leafy Greens
When to Plant: August through October (continue seeding for successive harvests)
Tips: Start seeds indoors in late summer and transplant; be vigilant about aphids and cabbage worms.
3. Root Vegetables
When to Plant: September–November
Varieties:
Carrots: ‘Napoli’, ‘Mokum’
Beets: ‘Chioggia’, ‘Detroit Dark Red’
Continued on page 38 ...
-Michael Beck
Radish: ‘French Breakfast’, ‘Watermelon’
Turnip: ‘Hakurei’, ‘Purple Top White Globe’
Tips: Sow directly into well-prepared, loose soil. Keep soil moist for even germination.
4. Alliums
When to Plant:
Garlic and Shallots: October–November
Leeks: Transplant September–October
Green Onions: September–November
Varieties:
Garlic: ‘California Early’, ‘Inchelium Red’
Leeks: ‘King Richard’
Tips: Plant garlic cloves and shallot bulbs pointy end up, 2 inches deep.
5. Legumes
When to Plant: September–November
Varieties:
Peas: ‘Sugar Snap’, ‘Oregon Sugar Pod II’ Fava Beans: ‘Windsor’
Tips: Inoculate seeds with rhizobium for better yields; provide trellising for peas.
6. Herbs
When to Plant: September–October
Varieties:
Cilantro: ‘Santo’
Parsley: ‘Italian Flat Leaf’
Tips: Harvest often to encourage new growth.
General Tips for Coastal California:
Mulch well to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize lightly since growth is slower in cool weather. Watch for slugs and snails, especially after rains. Use row covers to protect from wind and pests if needed. Enjoy extended harvests thanks to the mild climate.
Great! Here’s some tailored advice for fall and winter vegetable gardening on California’s Central Coast (Santa Cruz, Monterey). This region’s coastal influence means mild winters, rare frosts, and cool, moist air—perfect for a wide range of cool-season crops.
Central Coast Fall & Winter Vegetable Planting Guide:
General Timing. Cool-season crops can be planted from late August through November. Garlic and onions are best planted in October–November. Successive planting every few weeks ensures a steady harvest.
Best Vegetables and Planting Windows:
Leafy Greens
Lettuce, Spinach, Arugula, Chard, Kale
Plant: September to November (direct seed or transplant)
510 Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz 831.425.5123 www.woodstoveandsun.com
IN THE KITCHEN
Holiday Stuf fed Por k Loin
1 (3-4 lb) boneless pork loin roast
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Stuffing:
1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1/2 cup diced apple (peeled)
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon melted butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Pork Loin:
Butterfly the pork loin by slicing it lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through, then open it like a book. Place plastic wrap over the pork and pound it to an even 1-inch thickness. Rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder.
Make the Stuffing:
In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, cranberries, nuts, apple, onion, parsley, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Stuff the Pork:
Spread the stuffing evenly over the pork loin, leaving a 1-inch border. Roll up the pork tightly and secure with kitchen twine at 2-inch intervals.
Roast:
Place the stuffed pork seam-side down in a roasting pan. Roast for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Rest and Serve:
Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite holiday sides. Enjoy your festive holiday stuffed pork loin!
TOP 12
Our Top 12 wines feature nothing but award winners and 5-star favorites. Enjoy them all plus two bonus California Cabs and a pair of Dartington Crystal stemless glasses—for only $69.99 (plus $19.99 shipping & tax) as your special introduction to the WSJ Wine Discovery Club.
Take the Top 12 reds, or choose whites or a mix for the same great price. You’ll have access to the story behind every bottle—tasting notes, pairings and more. Then, look forward to a dozen exciting new finds every three months. Take only the cases you want—each saving you at least 20%—and skip or cancel anytime. We’ll also reward you with further bonus bottles and members-only treats throughout the year. Plus, every wine comes with our 100% money-back guarantee.
Check out the Top 12 at right, decide which bottle you’ll open first and join us on a journey of wine discovery.
INSIDE THE HOME
Maximizing Natural Light as the Days Shorten
Window treatments, mirror placement, and smart lighting for cozy evenings
As the sun begins to set earlier along the Central coast, fall brings a subtle shift in our homes. The days are still mild and beautiful, but the hours of light grow shorter—and that means less natural light indoors. Instead of letting the early twilight dim your mood or your living space, now’s the perfect time to embrace smart, simple strategies to keep your home bright, open, and cozy.
Here’s how to maximize the light you do have – and create warmth and ambiance that feels just right for coastal fall living.
1. Choose the Right Window Treatments
Your windows are your best allies in bringing in natural light—but the wrong coverings can work against you.
Go sheer and light:
Swap out heavy drapes for sheer curtains in linen or cotton.
These allow light to filter in while maintaining privacy – especially important in coastal neighborhoods where homes are closer together.
Layer with intention:
Try a double rod setup: use sheers for the day, and heavier drapes for insulation at night. Choose light colors (think warm whites, sandy beiges, or soft coastal blues) to reflect light rather than absorb it.
Keep windows clean:
Salt air and sea spray can quickly cloud your glass. A quick clean every few weeks can boost incoming light more than you'd expect.
Continued on page 46 ...
Every donated vehicle will be properly
reducing waste and harmful emissions.
Every donated vehicle will be properly recycled, reducing waste and harmful emissions.
Every donated vehicle will be properly
Every donated vehicle will be properly recycled, reducing
Vehicle donations are fully tax-deductible and the proceeds help provide services to help the blind and visually impaired.
Vehicle donations are fully tax-deductible and the proceeds help provide services to help the blind and visually impaired.
Vehicle donations are fully tax-deductible and the proceeds help provide services to help the
Vehicle donations are fully tax-deductible and the proceeds help provide services to help the blind and visually impaired.
2. Use Mirrors to Bounce the Light
Mirrors are one of the oldest interior designer tricks—and for good reason.
Place mirrors opposite windows:
This instantly doubles the amount of light coming into a space. A large mirror in a dining or living room can brighten the room all afternoon.
Try mirrored or glossy décor:
Beyond wall mirrors, consider furniture with reflective surfaces –like a mirrored side table, a glass console, or metallic accents. Even a glass vase or ceramic lamp base can help scatter light across a room.
Go vertical:
Tall mirrors create the illusion of height and bring light up, perfect for darker hallways or narrow nooks.
3. Smarten Up with Lighting Layers
When the sun sets earlier, your lighting becomes essential—not just for function, but for mood and atmosphere.
Embrace “layers of light”:
The key is to mix ambient (overhead), task (reading or kitchen work), and accent (decorative) lighting.
Use smart bulbs:
Smart LED bulbs let you adjust brightness and color temperature.
Go for warmer tones (2700–3000K) in the evening to mimic natural dusk light and promote relaxation.
Light from the sides, not just above:
Wall sconces, table lamps, and even under-cabinet lighting reduce harsh shadows and make rooms feel cozier and more balanced.
Consider timers or schedules:
Program lights to slowly brighten at dusk and dim before bed—it’s a gentle, energy-efficient way to keep your home in rhythm with the season.
Tip: Embrace the Golden Hour
One of the coast’s best features? That golden California sunset. Try rearranging your furniture to take advantage of the best-lit spots in the house during afternoon hours—whether it’s your favorite reading chair, your home office desk, or your dining table. Bask in that warm light as long as it lasts.
Final Thoughts
While fall and winter may bring shorter days, your home doesn't have to feel darker. With just a few mindful changes—from choosing the right window treatments to placing mirrors and layering your lighting – you can make the most of every ray and create a warm, inviting atmosphere all season long.
Because on the Central coast, light is one of our most beautiful natural resources – let’s make the most of it.
ROOM Real Estate
Setting the Standard in Santa Cruz County
ROOM Real Estate proudly holds the title of #1 selling team in Santa Cruz County. Recently honored by The Leading 100 as the #6 real estate team in all of California, they’ve also achieved an impressive milestone — $2 billion in sales since joining their brokerage.
With unmatched market knowledge, innovative strategies, and a client-first approach, ROOM Real Estate continues to lead the way in California real estate.
Thinking about buying or selling a home? Call today to schedule your complimentary home valuation and discover how the county’s top-producing team can help you reach your real estate goals.
