Red Edge Realty Louisville Real Estate News

As far as Louisville homes go, 2016 is looking pretty stylish.

 by MIKE HALL, Owner/Agent/Broker

Based on a few design articles, I have a list of 10 home décor trends for 2016 my Louisville friends should (or could) try.

1. Heated Floors. Who doesn’t want warm feet?
2. Wooden floors vs. carpet.  Just avoid carpet altogether. Hardwood, stone and tile floors are more sanitary, plus you have an excuse to go shopping for an ever-classic, ever-popular and timeless, oriental rug.
3. No TV in the living room. It gives more room for actual socializing.
4. Fireplaces. Whether operative or not, fireplaces are becoming sought-after focal points once again.
5. Black stainless steel appliances. A definite move has been made from ultra shiny to dulled sheen.
6. Matte finish vs. shiny. Cover your silver and gold knobs and light fixtures with a neutral swath of paint.
7. Miss-matched cabinetry. From raw, natural materials to multicolor, pairing two opposites makes for something one of a kind and stylish.  
8. Statement bathroom mirrors. Ditch the typical square/rectangle and go for a shape more unique.
9. Better utilized and hidden storage. Whether it is deeper cabinetry in the kitchen, a staircase bookshelf or hollowed ottomans, sneaky and efficient storage is a must.
10. High-tech, niche appliances. Installing a wine refrigerator? Niche appliances are great for resale marketing and added luxury.

Classic is timeless, trends are fleeting.

by MIKE HALL, Owner/Broker/Agent

When researching what is on trend for the year or season, I always feel a bit superficial. The thing is, trends are trends. They are fleeting, ever-changing and inconsistent. The classic look wins time and time again. It’s almost like true love, you know it when you see it (or feel it,) and it lasts forever.  So, when styling your home, keep this classic/timeless look in mind. I’ve come up with a few classic observations which I think would stand the test of time in any home.

White, bright and clean kitchens and bathrooms. White kitchens and bathrooms are just a staple, offering a trusted clean and timeless look. White tile is a classic look for your floors or backsplash too.

White, bright and clean rooms throughout the home. White paint goes with everything. The guessing game with thousands of paint swatches is non-existent, and white makes any space look larger. Want to get a bit crazy? Paint one or two walls in your home, but leave most of it a clean slate. White especially looks amazing in a well-windowed room which brings me to…

Lots of natural light. Windows, lots of them, or large scale windows, are ideal. Plus, the more earth-friendly we become, the less electricity we use. Many young house-hunting couples are looking for extra natural light.

Timeless furniture. There is a reason vintage furniture is making a come-back—they don’t make them like they used to! Opt out of the cheap plywood table which will fall apart in a few years, and go with the sturdy, wooden piece that might need a little sanding and new coat of stain. Quality.

Pops of color with your accents. White walls look great with dark wood floors and neutral pops of color from furniture, throw pillows and…

Oriental, Persian or fur rugs. Need I say more.

Natural décor. Look for natural material when buying décor and flooring. No plastic lamps, carpet or vinyl, people. Use wood, stone, metal, things derived from the earth, not man-made material.

Houseplants and candles. Giving off clean oxygen and a warm feel makes for a positive environment.

Personal library and family photos. These make for great conversation pieces, and have been around for ages.

It’s in the details. That intricate crown molding, detailed fireplace, those woodwork floors, the metallic patterned ceiling? They will always be highly sought after because they are high in artistic quality and rare to come by.

Your introduction to Louisville home technology

 by MIKE HALL, Owner/Broker/Agent

In this booming technology age, things are moving fast. Not only are we busy as bees working away on laptops and computers, many of us are glued to our phones for work and social life during down time.  While I could go on and on about the pros and cons of extremely fast technology advancement, I can’t deny better security is now offered for your home.

Home security systems and services are very popular nowadays, and for good reason. While something many would have scoffed at 50 years ago, accustomed to leaving their doors unlocked, it seems to be a very practical and rational precaution in today’s day and age.   

But how do you choose which hi-tech security system is right for you? There are so many options for home security, many being as new and progressive as it gets. Whether you want a simple pass code board and blaring alarm, a 24/7 customer service line, a fingerprint pad reader for door entry (yes this exists, and you can buy one at Home Depot,) video feeds, wireless cameras, synced security devices on all home electronics, it will just take a little research and time. You are in control per what works for you fast-paced lifestyle.

And resale value for any installed security electronics? Higher.