The look of the furniture and fittings in your hotel is extremely important. These furnishings give your hotel a grand look and are the focus of your guests attention. People stay in hotels that look nice, offer sophistication, and are extremely comfortable, otherwise, they usually turn around and leave. Hotel Furniture is the basis of a hotel’s reputation, it gives your guests their first impression, and is usually a glimpse of what they believe the service is going to be like. Guests already have an image of what Hotel furniture is supposed to be like for hospitality area, sleeping areas, living quarters and lodging. Hotel furniture is constructed with the highest quality materials like hardwood and sturdy metal that provides durability, but also materials that appear luxurious and elegant. The designs for hotel furniture vary from contemporary to the traditional and trendy, unique styles. This furniture is mostly made of out of high quality wood like cherry, oak, walnut, mahogany, maple and other exotic woods. The finish of the woods, metals, upholstery, leather, wrought iron, glass, Formica, and high pressure laminates depends on what the hotel furniture requirements are.

The Hotel business is a commercial business, and customers range from executives. top business class people, to families on vacation. To suit guests’ specifications and tastes the furnishings in the hotel need to be designed to their need. Richness and sophistication provides a warm welcome to the entrance and reception area of the hotel. Furniture forms the major asset for the hotel and the selection of hotel furniture should be made according to that.

Returning guests to a hotel, usually are returning because they prefer the design of that hotel furniture. Hotel furniture is designed to be profitable for the hotel and is designed according to the specifications offered by the buyer. Hotel furniture includes armoires, dressing tables, head boards, night tables, mirrors, desks, drawers, beds, sofas, restaurant furniture, bar furniture, patio furniture and tables and they are specifically designed to suit the needs of the design professionals, hotel operators and hotel owners. Hotel furniture is made specifically with the quality, craftsmanship and durability that the hotel industry needs, as well as at the price that the hotel industry needs. The hotel furniture you choose will depend on the size of the hotel furniture requirements, the manufacturers you want, and what you need to do to satisfy the needs of your clients.

Some manufacturers provide some of the finest quality materials at an unbeatable price and they build the furniture according to the needs of the buyers. The manufacturers design the hotel furniture to match the style preferred by the hotel and ultimately their guests. These manufacturers usually design hotel furniture for profit and also provide discounts among the customers to attract bulk orders.

Purchasing of furniture is the most important, or one of the most important things to think of when in the hotel business, and because of its importance, you should probably hire a professional designer to help give you the look you want. . Hotel furniture is a heavy investment and that’s just another reason that the decision should be made carefully by the hotel owners. After all this furniture is what will increase your hotel profit in the long run. Purchasing furniture that is not suitable for the hotel or that is not well made, is a waste of time and money. When shopping for hotel furniture, you should get a perfect balance between the form and function. Physical appearance is the most important aspect in the purchase of hotel furniture, but you can’t forget about comfort either. Comfort is also extremely important when buying hotel furniture.

Hotel furniture is designed to make a profit for the hotel owner, and some of the important guidelines in the purchase of the furniture is listed below.

* Hotel furniture is a significant physical appearance of the hotel, and one of the main reasons why guests continue to return. Therefore, the purchase of furniture should be made to attract customers’ attention. This furniture should provide satisfaction and comfort to the guests.

* The purchase of your hotel furniture should be based on your theme and style of the hotel and that style should be at the very top of your list when buying hotel furniture. Since furniture investment is heavy, you need to take your time in making the right decision.
* Designing hotel furniture for profit includes changing the look of the hotel into traditional, classic and into the latest trendiest style.

* Extensive demographic research should be done on the type of customers visiting your area and hence your hotel and the hotel furniture should be selected based on this specification.

* The guests and visitors of the hotel should be provided with the utmost comfort and care. The needs of the customers should be put above everything else and so the hotel furniture should be designed with this guideline in mind..

* The rooms of the hotel are constructed differently. For example single bedroom, double bedroom and master bedroom. The hotel furniture should serve the distinct purposes. They should also provide comfort and elegance to the customers.

* The hotel furniture should be designed with quality in mind, and the investment should only be made in high quality furniture from reputable manufacturers, who provide a guarantee, durability and flexibility.

Hotel furniture plays an absolutely essential role in the overall physical appearance of the hotel and presents the foundation of quality services offered by the hotel. Purchasing of the best and ideal hotel furniture is a crucial factor in the success of the hotel business.

So in conclusion, this is the area that you want to take great care in, choose the right furniture and your new hotel will be a success, but choose the wrong furniture and your hotel will be a total failure. This is something you really want to be careful about, and be a part of the decision every step of the way.

From ancient times furniture has been used, as bedroom furniture, living room furniture, carpets & rugs or kitchen furniture as well. Due to its ongoing usage and basic structure repetition comes. The same look and same design creates boredom. But modernized furniture not only adds innovation to your house but also gives a new and fresh look. This leads a creative mind.

As compared to other furniture bedroom furniture needs more attention. Because bedroom is a place from where a person starts and ends his day, so it should be refreshing always. And modernized furniture provides that refreshing look. It is nothing but the unique styling of the same furniture. It possess beds of different kind like sofa beds, frame beds, bunk beds and many more, present in different style and shapes. Bedroom furniture is not only present in unique designs but is also present in unique shades. Material used also varies with the type of furniture, sometimes its wood like oak and teak and sometimes its wrought iron.

Along with furniture the quality of mattress used also matters. If they are not comfortable, then they are not worth. Only good quality mattresses provide sound sleep and are worth buying. But now beyond comfort look also counts. If they look luxurious the whole overview of the room is changed. Frame Beds Mattresses are present in a wide range depending upon the texture and the furniture used in the room. Some are soft; some are hard just to satisfy the buyers’ needs.

Laminate flooring is also a useful product of this whole range. It possesses several additional advantages over others. Normal flooring gives the room a regular look, whereas this flooring enhance the beauty of the whole room. As compared to wooden flooring it also give your floor a water resistant texture leading to greater durability. It beautifies the whole house and provides a protective shield. The thing that makes it better then others is its unique shades and designs. Every person has different choices and preferences and the wide variety of laminate flooring makes it suitable for every individual. Its strong texture provides greater durability.

If you are bored of your antic and regular furniture then this modernized furniture is the best choice. The whole range of these modernized furniture add a charm to your house. It is also a source through which you can add creativity and your own style to the house. All the products are of unique style and become a solution to get rid of the boring stuff.

Your bedroom is arguably the most important room in your home. It’s the place you finish every day in, curled up in bed and ready to get some much needed sleep. But the chances are, your bedroom doesn’t look as nice as you would like it to, which is a shame – because giving it a fresh new look doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

The first step is to decide on a colour scheme. If you have accessories you would like to keep – such as a duvet set for example – you can pick one of the colours in the bedding to use on the walls. Paint is the cheapest option when it comes to decorating, and if your walls aren’t in good enough condition you can buy some cheap lining paper to hang first before painting over the top of it.

You might also want to think about changing your bedroom furniture. Look out for special deals or end-of-line offers, as these can enable you to buy new furniture for a fraction of what you would normally pay for it.

The same applies to discount beds. Your bed will be the main feature in the room, but you can buy a cheap bed that still looks good and will last for years. Keep an eye out for any bargains locally and look online as well – you can often buy cheaper this way, especially from companies that only trade online.

There are plenty of ways that you can spruce up your bedroom for a minimal cost if you pay attention to what accessories you are using. You can make your bed look more luxurious by purchasing lots of different styles and sizes of cushions in similar colours to pile up on it.

You can also make your bedroom look bigger by being creative with your storage needs. If you have a lot of blankets and spare pillows that you don’t always need, consider buying a bed which has built-in storage underneath. These aren’t much more expensive than a normal bed, and they are a cheaper option than buying more items of furniture separately to fulfil your needs.

You will find that once you have repainted your bedroom it will instantly look fresher and more appealing. New accessories can be bought over time if you wish – keep an eye out for sales items in the shops, and think about replacing lampshades rather than buying a whole new lamp. It’s often the smaller touches that make the biggest difference.

When you have your brand new bed and other items of furniture in place, it will be easier to revamp your bedroom in future, just by changing the accessories as and when you feel like altering the mood of the room a little.

All of which means your budget makeover will last long into the future – giving you even better value for money.

Do you feel your bedroom looks plain? Do you feel bored by the look of your bedroom? Help is at hand, with a few simple tips you can transform your bedroom a into stylishly chic room which won’t break the bank!

A person can give one’s bedroom a makeover in several ways:

* Change the furniture, this is a costly way to transform you bedroom unless you opt for a shabby chic style of design.

* Add wooden furniture to your bedroom. Natural materials are definitely in-vogue with interior designers. The great advantage with natural wood it that it blends effortlessly with any colour scheme.

* Change the colours of your wall and artwork. By simply painting the walls will refresh a bedroom. The use of wall paper has seen a huge revival recently, having just one wall or the entire bedroom wallpapered will dramatically change its appearance.

* Add accessories like lamps and bedside table keepsakes. Try not to over clutter, just add a few very chic pieces as focal points.

* Of course, the best way to make your room stylish is by changing that bedding of yours! This is not only easy but you can create different looks throughout the year by changing your duvet sets.

If you do not want to take much of a risk and make your bedroom look simple and stylish then the best way you could do that is by adding crisp bedding that has neutral prints and shades. If you do not like multiple pillows, you could go for one big pillow as well. This keeps your bed looking clutter free.

If you want to get style with luxury then velvet bedding and embroidered sets are a good choice. However, beware as some shades can make your bed look tacky so while choosing colours make sure you choose colours which harmonise with the room.

If you want the look of designer beddings at cheaper costs try appliqués with the print and colours of your choice on complementary beddings. This is a sure-fire way to make your bedding look designer made.

Adding bedding and pillow covers that have laces and frills on the edges gives that luxurious and opulent look for your bedroom. What’s more, with the choices available in shades and patterns you can have your own distinct style by stitching laces of your choice onto your bedding. One useful tip is to not overdo the lace as this can make your room look too over the top, subtlety is the key to great interiors. Embellishments, delicate sequins and button work on your bedding can not only add colour and texture, but also make your bedding look more stylish.

One can also choose ruffles instead of lace to create their look. Ruffles complete a bedding and pillowcase. However, be careful when you choose the colours as this can either make your bedding look stylish by adding a hint of colour or make it look like a mismatched upholstery on a bedding, which does not give you any specific design look, which can end up looking like a shambles rather then chic.

If you are not a big fan of designs and prints then the best way to make your room look stylish is by using bedding made of Egyptian cotton having a high thread count or using satin sheets. Earthy colours or pure white look best on Egyptian sheets with rich, deep colours make satin sheets look, sexy, sumptuous and beautiful.

Above all, make sure your luxury bedding is pulled back tightly over your bed as this just makes your bed look impeccable, unless of course you like the ‘unmade’ bed casual chic style!

The Scandinavian look is a bright, airy style that makes you feel like you can breathe easier just by stepping into it. This look is carefully constructed to give the illusion of light and sprang from Sweden’s harsh, long winter evenings. The overall look is homey and inviting.

Color here is viewed as an opportunity to create the brightness of a summer sky with marshmallow clouds and its cheerful vibes. For your base, you’ll want something like white, cream or sky blue, complemented with touches of warm yellow and gold, baby pink and bold red, gray and light green. Use these colors to stencil hearts, ribbons, scrolls and gatherings of wheat upon walls.

Like your walls and draperies, keep your floors light and bright! Consider blonde or pale woods, or a light hued paint for your floors. If you want to jazz things up, stencil or paint pale designs (like stripes and diamonds) on the floor’s surface. And don’t forget your floor coverings! In this case, pick up an eco-friendly sisal rug, like the kind found here, for a natural, attractive covering that protects your floors and family’s feet.

Wall sconces are the key to your success with this look. Choose relatively simple, small sconces with a tin, gold or brass finish and place them in sets along your wall for artful framing and light play. Plain table lamps and unfussy chandeliers also help add light to an already bright interior.

Keep your furniture uncomplicated and clean for the Scandinavian style. Curvilinear designs reign in blonde woods like birch, beech, and alder and may come painted white. Legs are often tapered or fluted and tables sometimes bear scrolled borders for extra style. For the bedroom, opt for upholstered head and footboards, or go for basic wood in a canopy bed, trundle or daybed style. Keep in mind there should be nothing imposing or ostentatious about Scandinavian furniture, considering it takes its cues from country and folk styles. For ideas, browse GREENCulture’s large furniture site.

If you want to dress up walls, keep things uncomplicated. You can use moldings, some restrained stenciling and uncluttered floral patterns on your walls. Match any florals you do use to freshly cut flowers displayed in pitchers, vases or on wreathes for windows and bookcases. Flowers that match the Scandinavian color scheme include yellow daisies, pink roses and white flowers.

Lastly, don’t feel the need to fill up every space with knick-knacks and accessories, as it can work to undermine the light, airy feel you’ve worked to create. Use mirrors to create the illusion of even more open space and to reflect light, and use light colored accents like blue and white china, silver and glass to add shine and style.

Looking for some elegant interiors to furnish your home? While there are several options to choose from, you might want to consider French furniture. French furniture was essentially Parisian furniture that was created for the royalty, upper bourgeoisie and the aristocrats. The furniture is crafted artistically with a lot of attention to detail. It embodies mainstream designs of Europe and its decorative arts; it draws its influence from regions such as Russia, Spain and Sweden.

If one is looking at elegance that brilliantly stupefies craftsmanship with the inclusion of scrumptious fabrics, then French Furniture is of your type.

Every piece of French furniture has its own identity and does not require any other adornments. You can compare a single stand alone piece of furniture as a painting on the wall. They can lighten up and beautify any part of the room, even if it is just a single piece of furniture that is placed in the hallway. The fabrics are brightly coloured with gold gilds and the fabric used to complete the look of the furniture is usually high quality silk.

There are a few contemporary French furniture types that need mentioning, like the French Beds and Chaise Lounges.

The French bed is made of strong sturdy wood or iron which is always accompanied with delicate and ornate carvings. French beds have the most elegant look and can easily add a touch of class to a bedroom. They are all time classics and can go along with any decor or theme of a bedroom. Simple bedrooms can be decorated with the classic white or cream coloured French beds. There are also glamorous beds that come particularly with gold gilts and the upholstery is mainly made of silk. French beds are opulent, graceful, charming and luxurious and are simply timeless. There is something very unique about French beds and not many styles of furniture can be regarded as the same.  Trends in furniture never stay too long, however the French bed is always avant-garde furniture that goes along with any style.

Chaise Lounges were invented during the 18th century in France and the reason for it being upholstered was mainly for comfort. The feeling of lounging on a chaise lounge is immaculate and only makes one feel like a rock star. Several other lounge designs are inspired by the shape of the chaise lounges.  Chaise lounges typically means a long chair and is nothing close to a day bed that has no back, no arms and is flat. The chaise lounges are handcrafted individually to give it that unique touch and feel. The fabric again can be according to the buyers preference, however they mainly come upholstered in silk. A chaise lounge can be placed anywhere inside a room or even outdoors. Wherever it is placed, it definitely improves the look and feel of the room, giving it a soft elegant and opulent touch. It can even spruce up the dull look of a bedroom or living room. Who wouldn’t want to add a touch of elegance to their home and a chaise lounge will help achieve just that.

We spend a third of our lives in our bedrooms; this is where we come to recharge, to prepare ourselves for each new day; this is where we relax and find peace. Our bedrooms are our sanctuaries. How we decorate them, what sort of bedroom furniture and ornamentation we choose reflects our values and interests. Contemporary bedroom trends combine a number of stylistic elements which go together to form a unique, inimitable look. The arrangement of the furniture and the décor is often eclectic yet harmonized to form a cool, collective ambiance. Much of contemporary design emphasizes sleek, smooth minimalism but you’ll find that this doesn’t preclude a little warmth and coziness. Some of today’s chicest trends are outlined below.

Eco-Chic or the Green Trend: With the tides turning and ecological consciousness being de rigueur these days, many people want their bedrooms to reflect their newfound respect for the environment. This means they are scooping up used odds and ends and fashioning them into new, bespoke pieces, such as night tables and storage bins. Alternatively, many homeowners have turned their attention to green design. Architect-design teams such as Team 7, are crafting green, non-toxic bedroom furniture. The wood they work with is natural and solid, finished off with herbal oils and waxes, rather than stains and lacquers which can emit toxic VOCs into the air we breathe.

Organic Modern: This style bends in the eco-chic direction, but it’s more earthy and artfully cluttered. It’s a look that is accomplished with a mix of vintage and modern pieces, a neutral color palette, and plenty of flowers. It’s eclectic, but not assorted; it’s a controlled look that has careful thought behind it.

Ethnic: Another trend that seems to be quite viral is the ethnic look. Many households are eager to embrace this age of globalization by populating their bedrooms with unique, traditional pieces they’ve nabbed on their world travels. Moroccan bedroom furniture, with brilliant colors and mesmerizing patterns, add depth and liveliness to any room. Asian inspired themes, with contemplative, round bellied buddhas and lacquered screens, have become all the rage, as more people are searching for their private oases of calm and tranquility.

Bauhaus: For the professional couple, nothing states staid and cool more than Bauhaus. The Bauhaus look is of a piece with smart sophistication. Bauhaus bedroom furniture is the type of furniture, which goes with a well aged scotch. It’s utterly classic, with an edge of calm froideur, but it’s never brusque.

Airy Ranch Style: This style epitomizes country living. It’s relaxed and carefree. This look is achieved by using rustic and antique wooden furniture. Dried flowers and an assortment of knick-knacks and pictures complete the details. A light or neutral color palette make it easy to mix and match decorative items. Brick walls and wood ceiling beams add an extra touch of chic pastoral.

Eclectic: This trend is a mixture of everything. It requires a delicate balance of this and that. Eclectic could mean combining retro pieces with slick, antique Victorian affairs. It could mean a carefully executed clutter. Often, many people will go for an eclectic look to express their range of tastes.

Would you like to design the ideal modern master bedroom? Are you finding that you have a large area to work with, but not many ideas on what to do with it? Perhaps you are the type that has plenty of creative ideas to work with, but the available space that you have is too small to fit them all in? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you are probably open to welcome helpful tips to let you discover tricks and techniques used to create the perfect master bedroom – with a modern tone! Lets have a look at a couple of bedroom design ideas.

Today’s “modern” master bedrooms consist of many creative color schemes and unique geometric patterns and shapes. The modern look steers away from the stale woods and brown color codes that have been commonly integrated as part of the standard master bedroom suite. Many people prefer the style and flare that is part of the new, upbeat look of the furnishings that can be worked into the modern bedroom. These furniture items allow more room for originality and personal expression than standard bedroom furniture does.

If you are looking to design your modern master bedroom, it is critical to have a bit of appreciation for exquisite architecture and artistic expression. If you are intending to add a new, artistic flare modern atmosphere of luxury to the room where you unwind and relax after a long day. This new style allows a person to create a gorgeous area of comfort that can allow them to achieve relaxation and rest.

The first method to designing the modern bedroom is to carefully choose the paint that you prefer for the walls. It is recommended to opt for natural and neutral tones. Some people may decide to use special painting techniques, like those that make the wall look as if it is “cracked”. This may actually seem unattractive, but once it is done, it gives a unique and futuristic appeal to the walls in your decor. It provides a form of texture and depth that is not often seen in the traditional bedroom.

When choosing bedroom furnishings, it is important to look for items that have contrasting colors, such as blacks and whites. You should also consider furniture items that have unusual shapes and contours. Examples might be triangle shaped mirrors or dressers. Of course, you can choose from many shapes and patterns when it comes to transforming bedroom. If you really want to set off the appearance of your new room, you should get a headboard that matches the shape of the furniture that you have purchased.

The last aspect that you want to pay close attention to is the window area. The windows are an important part of the master bedroom. If you would like an upbeat look for this room, there are many different kinds of blinds that you can choose from. You can find creative blinds that display beach scenes, floral or nature scenes, religious scenes, wildlife, various art prints, and more! Any kind of window treatment that can show off the artistic and geometric look of your bedroom is sure to be a big hit!

If you are looking to create and design your ideal master bedroom, the tips and tricks mentioned above are sure to get you started. These are the most influential features of the traditional bedroom and should also be the most important features in the more modern bedrooms. Remember, to make sure you are totally happy with your bedroom, you must put some of your creativity into it.

Once reserved for royalty or the very rich, luxury bedding is one of those delightful pleasures in life that is progressively becoming a must-have. We’ve all seen the rise of popularity with Egyptian cotton sheets over the years and now it seems that luxury bedding is one of those items that people just can’t imagine being without. Each year manufacturers are showing up at the home textile shows to display new collections. Although some trends in color or design appear, it’s the classics or soon to be classics that survive. Today’s consumer wants bedding that is comfortable, classic, durable, and will withstand the changes in trends. Neutral colors and delicate embroidery in high thread count sheeting is in high demand. Silk, linen, and Egyptian cotton fabrics are top choices for bedding fabrics that are extremely soft and beautiful.

Adding to or changing your luxury bedding is a great way to change the look of your room without changing everything. It’s much easier to change your look if you start with neutrals. Use neutral colors such as white, ivory, taupe, or green and soft details when selecting sheets and bed skirts. We are no longer limited by choices. Most manufacturers offer the same color palette for coordinating collections that can be mixed and matched. If you don’t find exactly what you want, most manufacturers will customize your bedding so you can get the best fit and colors of your choosing. Just remember that anything that is special ordered or custom made requires on average a 6-week wait, but it is worth it.

Not everything has to match. Select different pieces for your duvet cover and shams to instantly create a new look. Layering with coverlets and throws is great way to add texture to the room. Many manufacturers are starting to include these pieces in their bedding collections. You also have the option of coordinating coverlets and throws in the same colors, but different designs, textures, or weaves for added appeal.

If you find a fabric or bedding design that appeals to you, you don’t have to purchase an entire ensemble. Keep your main bedding neutral and purchase decorative pillows in your favorite fabrics to add a touch of color or pattern for a different look or to change with the seasons. This is a creative and easy way to showcase those fabrics you love. Pillows can be purchased or custom made to your specifications and style. Purchase several so they can be easily changed at whim.

If you have many pieces of furniture in the room, consider an Upholstered headboard in coordinating fabrics to freshen your decor and soften the room. Adding pillows in the same fabric will complete the look. Most luxury bedding manufacturers offer fabric by the yard so that you can customize your window treatments and accessories.

Your bedroom is your retreat, so spice it up or add soothing elements to please your senses. Don’t necessarily follow trends. Instead, follow your instincts and do what makes you happy and content.

1. A sense of historic connection resonates with buyers today. French, English, Tuscan and Spanish homes with stone or stucco walls, tile roofs, iron fixtures, heavy beams and rustic floors are in demand. Old world styles are in demand.

2. The Craftsman style, built in the early 1900’s, is back. Rustic stonework, deep eaves, tapered columns and wide trim, reflect the handmade look over the mass produced.

3. Farmhouses and country homes are sought after for remodeling and are a source of ideas for new homes. Wood windows, simple floor plans, local stone and muted colors connect with nature and earlier times.

4. The retro look is fashionable, and a great fit with fashionable mid century modern furniture styles. Younger folks are breathing new life into their parent’s ranch styles and split levels from the 1950’s.

5. Urban modern is everywhere, with experimental use of space, color, tile, glass, plastic and metal.

6. The preferred ceiling height is about 9 – 12 feet. Two story ceilings are out. In small rooms these feel like towers.

7. Lots of floor level changes are not desirable. These can cause tripping and are not pleasant to live with.

8. Most buyers today want at least two living areas and four bedrooms. Formal dining rooms are still in demand. Formal living rooms are often converted to studies, libraries, or guest rooms. Media rooms are a sought after feature when price range allows.

9. The visual and spatial connection between kitchen and family room is firmly established.

10. Cabinet space is required for large televisions and wall space is needed for the newer flat screens.

11. Three car garages are in demand, especially in areas without basements.

12. Structured wiring is important today for internet, phone, cable and sound. Desk space for computers, fax machines, printers, etc. is required.

13. Good access to the outdoors is a basic design requirement. French doors combine access with light. Sliding glass doors are not as favored.

14. Lots of storage is needed for today’s lifestyle. People have lots of stuff. Huge master closets, pantries, laundry rooms, and extra storage closets are expected.

15. For some people, very spare lofts are perfect. Simplified spaces are an antidote to today’s complex lifestyle.

16. Most buyers are savvy about kitchen design and appreciate good work spaces with easy access to range, refrigerator and sink. Lots of counter space, deep drawers, two sinks, nearby extra refrigerator, and butler’s pantries are all desirable features.

17. Stainless appliances are still in vogue. In urban modern styles, white and colored appliances are back. High end homes conceal some appliances in cabinetry.

18. Eat-in kitchens, with breakfast bar or room for a small table, are a basic requirement for most buyers.

19. Antique tables or cabinets are being refurbished and used as bath cabinets. Kitchen cabinets that look like furniture are a great look.

20. Granite and stone counters are popular. However, granite tops added to 1980’s cabinets do not go over well. Consider your architectural style before adding features. Concrete countertops are perfect for ultra modern, but are not a mainstream feature.

21. Built in refrigerators are desired. Wide, cabinet depth refrigerators have a built-in look, and are not as expensive as the true built-in type.

22. Large rustic stone or ceramic tiles, concrete or wood floors have a warm, functional appeal. Subway tile (3″ x 6″) is popular in bathrooms and on kitchen backsplashes. Patterned cultured marble and laminate are out. Slippery, white floor tile is out.

23. Generous trim is a much appreciated upgrade. Wide, baseboards (6″), and door and window trim (4″) are key features in old European and American styles.

24. Craftsman style doors work well with both old and modern looks. These are simple square frames with flat panels. Iron or heavy wood entry doors make strong statements that buyers love.

25. Rustic finishes on hardware, such as brushed nickel, oil rubbed bronze, weathered brass, and other non-shiny finishes are the popular choices.

26. Rustic wood beams or wood covered ceilings create a hand crafted, primitive look that buyers like.

27. Wrought iron gates, stair rails and light fixtures compliment the rustic style. Stair rails in ultra modern homes may be wire, pipe or painted metal.

28. Front porches and covered patios are always a strong selling point. Outdoor fireplaces are popping up everywhere.

29. Re-claimed wood used on floors or walls is very desirable. New wood floors that have been distressed or scraped are valued. A variety of wood boards with cracks exposed are being used instead of traditional wood flooring.

30. Bamboo floors are popular, especially in modern style homes where light colored floors are desired.

31. Concrete floors – often stained and scored are popular. These go well with the modern look, and are used in Craftsman and rustic European styles too.

32. Colorful laminate floors are a good fit with mid-century modern. Laminate floors that look like wood are out. Parquet floors are out, unless they are hand crafted.

33. Framed or hung mirrors are preferred, although plate glass works in ultra modern styles. Mirrors used on walls or ceilings are a turn off.

34. Colors are in, but soft is the word. Soft greens, yellows, earth tones and creams create a serene background that works with all styles. Complex colors, with more colors in the mix, are a more interesting choice. Deeply saturated colors, such as plums and reds, are used in moderation.

35. Flat paint on walls hides flaws and creates a designer look. Shiny is out. Soft whites are safe for trim.

36. Faux finishes are out. Often these do not turn out as well as expected, and are difficult to maintain. The same (or similar) wall color through adjoining spaces creates a more spacious feeling.

37. Historic paint colors such as sage greens, beiges, muted yellows, and grays work well on the exterior. Bold or harsh colors are a turn-off to most buyers.

38. Wallpaper is problematic and harder to change than paint. Very often it does not fit the buyer’s taste. Heavily textured walls and popcorn ceilings are totally out.

39. Buyers want more windows, natural light, and a greater connection with the outdoors. People today are more discriminating about the quality of light. Windows on two sides of the room balance the lighting and reduce glare.

40. One light in the middle of the room will not do. Under cabinet task lighting is appreciated. Security lighting is important. Wall sconces offer soft ambient lighting. Recessed cans provide area light. Dimmers help to control the lighting.

41. Light fixtures are a decorative element in all styles. Retro fixtures are interesting decorative features in 1930’s craftsman and 1950’s ranch styles.

42. Clean, modern fixtures, such as pendant lights, recessed cans, and wire string lights compliment the urban look. Industrial metal fixtures are in. The un-decorated look of metal or stainless steel is being used with modern and rustic styles.

43. Heavy drapes are out. Light cotton, linen or silk drapes are used. Or, wood blinds. Or nothing. Retro woven wood blinds have made a comeback. Mini blinds are very yesterday.

44. Bath fixtures are finished in rustic bronze, nickel, or chrome. Old style two-handled faucets and farmhouse sinks are in style.

45. Bath sinks may be glass bowls, granite, stone, stainless or traditional china. Free standing tubs are in. Pedestal and wall hung lavatories are in. Cultured marble is out.

46. With fuel costs going up, energy efficiency is important. Buyers want high efficiency AC, good insulation, low-e glass, programmable thermostats, double pane windows, and ceiling fans.

47. Effective passive solar orientation is a great advantage. It shows a smart planning and use of natural solar energy. No one wants foil on windows or stick-on window film.

48. Instant hot water is a perk that buyers like, as are drinking water filters.

49. Do remove solar screens when they are not needed, such as under patio roofs, porches or shade trees. Light is more in demand than ever.

50. Screened porches are back. They create a fun, multi purpose space that is both indoors and outdoors.