How to Protect Your Valuable Art

Keep your cherished works of art in pristine condition with these tips.

Create the Right Environment

Remember that artwork is sensitive to factors like sunlight, temperature and humidity.

Security

Its important to take the proper precautions to protect pieces that are particularly valuable. Motion sensors can be installed that alert authorities if a piece is being moved without prior authorization.

Work With Professionals

Dont take chances when it comes to pricey works of art. Work with a professional to install, store or move your collection.

Art Insurance

In the event that a piece does get damaged, make sure youve had your art collection appraised and insured.

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4 Accent Walls to Make a Room Pop

If youve ever felt like a room in your home needs a little extra energy, an accent wall just might be the perfect solution. By having one wall stand out from the rest of the room, it provides exciting visual appeal that draws the eye and leaves a lasting impression while breaking the monotony. Here are a few exciting ways you can create an accent wall in your home.

Fabric Wall Covering
By introducing a plush fabric, like silk or mohair, to one wall, you can instantly give any room a unique aesthetic while creating a luxurious look. Even a more traditional option, such as a neutral-toned linen wall covering, can provide a distinguished feel without being too flashy. Using a textured surface like fabric can help to warm a room up or add depth, depending on what you hope to achieve.

Exposed Brick
Whether youre in the city or the countryside, an exposed brick wall evokes a sense of character in practically any setting. While it might be more commonly associated with industrial chic- and bohemian-style lofts, theres no reason why you cant mix it up in a traditional residence with a red brick wall. If you feel like that might be too much, another option is to paint the brick white and let it blend in a little bit.

Wallpaper
There are tons of great choices for high-end wallpaper that can easily transform a room into an entirely new space. From mesmerizing floral patterns to classic prints, the right wallpaper will bring a room to life while supplementing the existing color scheme. And if you find the perfect one, you might just want to go ahead and cover the entire room with it.

Bold Paint
Of course, the most common way to create an accent wall is simply by painting one wall an exciting color that complements the rest of the room. It doesnt necessarily have to be a vibrant shade of yellow or orange, however. A dark, moody blue, for example, can make an equally powerful design statement that everyone is sure to take note of.

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Everything You Need to Know About Wet Rooms

Here are a few things to know about wet rooms.

 

With no curtains, doors or shower trays, the clean aesthetic provides a spa-like bathing experience, and whats not to love about that?

 

From easier access to efficient cleaning, an open-concept shower and bath area has numerous functional advantages.

 

If you dont have the space for both a soaking tub and a separate walk-in shower, this style can be a great solution.

 

Working with a designer will ensure your bathroom is fashionable and functional.

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How Smart Home Technology Can Improve Your Life

Smart home technology continues to grow in popularity among luxury buyers, and millennials in particular. Its a feature that can help your property to stand out from the rest, yet many homeowners are still on the fence about installing an automation system in their home.

Truth be told, there are plenty of benefits of having smart home technology. Here are just a few of the ways it can improve your life!

Energy Efficiency
Smart thermostats are proven to reduce the energy required to heat and cool your home. This means that in addition to lowering your impact on the environment, youre also saving on utility bills each month. Some systems can even monitor water usage to ensure there isnt a leak thats going to run up your bill.

Security
Once youre able to control and monitor your home security through your smartphone, theres no going back to the old days. You can see whos ringing the doorbell via live video stream when youre at work or unlock the backdoor for the dog walker when you go away for the weekend.

Convenience
The convenience that smart home technology affords is virtually endless, whether that means preheating the oven on your way home from the grocery store or turning on the coffee maker before youre out of bed. Youll soon start to wonder how you ever got anything done before.

Entertaining
When friends come over, you can use voice commands to turn on some tunes, get the mood lighting just right, and fire up the grill, all while mixing cocktails. Dinner parties just got that much easier.

Peace of Mind
Perhaps smart home technologys greatest quality is the peace of mind that comes with having control over your house. You can check on the baby with a camera-equipped monitor or make sure you closed the garage door while youre on vacation and rest assured that everything is okay.

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3 Ways That City Dwellers Can Maximize Space

When you live in the city, space is one of the ultimate luxuries. Even high-end homeowners might sometimes feel like they could use a little extra square footage around the house. Living elsewhere, you probably have the liberty to expand your residences footprint, but in an urban setting you have to get more creative. If youre looking to maximize the space in your home, here are several tips to ensure all your needs are accommodated.

Hidden Features
One way to make the most of your space is including hidden features that can transform a room when in use. For example, a casual seating area can quickly become a media room with a pop-up television that emerges from a cabinet or a projector thats hidden in the ceiling. If you need more room for overnight guests (which can quickly become an issue for growing families), another option is to install Murphy beds in your rec room or home office that are seamlessly stowed away when not in use.

Smart Home Gym
You may not have the space for a full-blown fitness area full of equipment, but you can still get a good workout without leaving the house. These days, there are numerous smart home gyms that require minimal space to exercise with maximum convenience. Whether youre into running, cycling, kickboxing or even resistance training, all you really need is a small corner of the house.

Multi-Purpose Furniture
Having furniture that serves more than one purpose has major appeal when space is at a premium. This is especially valuable if you get extra storage space, like an ottoman that can open up and hold blankets inside or a bedframe for the kids room with built-in drawers where they can keep their toys. Other options might be a versatile dining room table that can extend to accommodate extra guests at a dinner party or splurging on a high-end sofa with a pull-out bed thats actually comfortable.

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Luxury Buildings Are Going Above and Beyond With These Features

In cities all across the country, high-end real estate developers are taking luxury to new heights. Over-the-top amenities have long been a proven way to lure wealthy buyers, from elaborate concierge services to expansive fitness centers, but the never-ending pursuit to offer residents an exclusive lifestyle has reached new levels. If youre unsure of the advantages of todays most prestigious luxury buildings, here are a few of the latest amenities that were seeing.

Next-Level Wellness
Of course, having a full-service spa is an amazing perk to have in your building, but if maintaining wellness is a top priority in your life, then you might be interested in a building that keeps on-call doctors who are ready to make a house-call at any time of day. Onsite medical staff are perhaps the ultimate amenity for peace of mind, and luxury real estate developers have begun to tap into this. Having your doctor, trainer and even a nutritionist all under one roof is a sure-fire way to keep you feeling your best for years to come.

Heightened Transportation
Developers are also looking to make your life easier when youre on the go. Car-share programs allow owners to fly in for the weekend and have access to a fleet of brand-new luxury automobiles without having to worry about all of the complications that come with owning a car in the city. And what about when traffic is an issue? Some buildings are even equipped with helicopter taxis to shuttle you across town or pick you up at the airport.

Celebrated Staff
Increasingly, theres an emphasis placed on the staff members of these top-tier buildings. For example, ordering room service might not simply mean having your food prepared by any old chef, but rather an internationally-renowned chef. For those focused on living an active lifestyle, you may find a fitness area staffed with celebrity trainers or a coach who has worked with professional athletes ready to give you a tennis lesson. Access to such individuals who are at the top of their craft is now part of the complete lifestyle package.

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5 Fashion Labels With Breathtaking Home Collections

Is it time to update your decor? Whether youre looking to spruce up your home before putting it on the market or you need new furniture for your next place, thoughtfully designed interiors are essential. For the fashionistas who want to bring haute couture into their house, these five luxury clothing brands have home collections that are worth getting excited about:

Armani Casa
Armani recently unveiled a home collection at Milan Design Week, and its a must-see for every fan of minimalism. Inspired by natural elements and Asian landscapes, it includes everything from table settings and lighting to a stunning chaise lounge. Clean lines and exquisite finishes are consistent throughout, epitomizing the essence of Italian craftsmanship.

Hermes La Maison
The renowned purveyor of leather goods has made a foray into houseware with the Hermes La Maison collection. The wide range of home goods maintains the fashion houses timeless look and sophisticated style, with items for every room. The elegant bath linens, sleek leather chairs and tableware galore will breathe new life into your home.

Kate Spade Home
The Kate Spade Home collection is utterly effortless. True to the iconic designers hallmark style, playful prints and patterns are at the center of this line. They have the perfect breezy look, with floral bedding, citrus-patterned plates, and a powder pink toaster that every kitchen needs. Theres even a cocktail set that will come in handy at your dinner parties.

Fendi Casa
Known for being bold and lavish, the fabulous style seen in Fendis clothing carries over into the designers home line. Fendi Casa is a chic, contemporary collection that will transform your house, inside and out. The outdoor furniture, kitchen cabinets and breathtaking living room decor will all be appreciated by the fashion-forward homeowner.

Bottega Veneta Home
Bottega Veneta Home is all about neutral tones and rich textures. Simultaneously simple and opulent, the collection can lend itself to virtually any setting, from traditional to contemporary, and exudes meticulous craftsmanship with every piece.

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Hygge: The Danish Concept That Can Warm Up Your Home

As the temperatures begin to drop, its time to make your home as cozy as possible. If theres one tried and true method for doing so, its hygge (pronounced hoo-gah). Loosely translated as a warm feeling of happiness, this Danish concept is really more of a lifestyle than a design aesthetic. But creating a living space that exudes warmth and sophistication plays an essential role. With chilly winter mornings right around the corner, here are a few ways to bring hygge into your home.

Keep it Comfy
Above all else, your home should be personal and inviting rather than formal or trendy. Focus on how it makes you feel and try to choose dcor that you find calming. Plush pillows, rugs and throws that beg to be curled up in are always welcome when introducing hygge to your living space. Indoor plants and natural materials, like wood and stone, are also typical characteristics.

Bare Necessities
Like other forms of Scandinavian design, a living environment that achieves hygge has a minimalist element to it. By stripping away all of the clutter, you will naturally feel more relaxed and at ease.

Sentimental Effects
Hygge is certainly not about buying into the latest styles when it comes to interior design. After youve gotten rid of all the unnecessary items, try to decorate with a few objects that have sentimental meaning to you. Ultimately, this will help to create a home that reflects your personality and lifestyle.

Neutral Colors
Shades of white, gray and beige are the most common colors used because they contribute to a clean and soothing environment. When paired with natural materials, this effect is effortlessly modern and welcoming.

Warm Lights
Lastly, you can round out the setting and incorporate hygge with soft lighting. Recessed lights with dimmers, lamps and candles can all be used to provide a warm aesthetic and keep you cozy no matter how cold it gets outside in the coming months.

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4 Things to Love About American Craftsman-Style Homes

There are few architectural movements that can compete with the American Craftsman when it comes to exuding a sense of character and coziness. Having emerged toward the end of the 19th century, this style has been in demand among homeowners for over a hundred years and certainly wont be going away any time soon. As the name would suggest, these homes emphasize quality and craftsmanship, which is why theyre particularly appreciated by those with an eye for detail. Here are several hallmark features that make the American Craftsman style so appealing.

Charming Faades
Often designed with overhanging eaves and large covered porches at the front entrance, a Craftsman home feels inviting before you even step inside. Low-pitched gable roofs and tapered columns give the faade unique curb appeal thats both low-key and classic. Plus, theres just something about a Craftsman-style home that looks especially in its element when surrounded by lots of trees and plantings, which makes them ideal for any landscape design enthusiasts.

Large Fireplaces
At the center of almost every Craftsman home is a fireplace that the family can gather around. Oftentimes, youll even find more than one throughout the house. A prominent red brick fireplace with wood cabinets on either side is a quintessential feature that contributes to the balance between cozy and refined.

Thoughtful Details
Perhaps most importantly are the small details that make a Craftsman home stand out, such as beamed ceilings, built-in bookshelves and wainscoting. While a large living room with a prominent fireplace makes for a grand entertaining space, there also tends to be more intimate sitting areas, like window seats and reading nooks.

Natural Materials
Of course, given the features found throughout the interiors, a Craftsman house generally showcases an extensive use of wood and stone. From the fireplace to the built-ins, natural materials are on full display, creating an ambience thats distinguished and welcoming.

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How to Pick Out the Right Artwork for Your New Home

Decorating is one of the most exciting parts of moving into a new home. Whether youve gone from a traditional to a contemporary residence or purchased a second home that needs to be completely furnished, there are many reasons why you may find yourself shopping for new pieces of art at this time. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when selecting artwork for a specific space.

Golden Rule of Art Acquisition
Of course, the most important thing when buying a piece of art is that it speaks to you. Youre going to have to see it every day, so use your wall space wisely and only surround yourself with works that truly inspire and excite you.

Size and Scale
If youre purchasing it specifically for your new home, then you should have a general idea of where a piece is going to be displayed. Whether its a painting or a statue, try to maintain a sense of size and scale thats appropriate to the room. A small and intimately-sized room, for example, might be overwhelmed by a large, imposing piece.

Consider the Atmosphere
In each room, we often strive to create a different ambience. You may want your home office to feel energized and inspire creativity, whereas the bedroom should be soothing and tranquil. Keep this in mind in order to select art that captures the perfect mood for each setting.

Color and Style
As with any element of interior design, youll want to keep an eye on the big picture. The art you choose to display should be consistent with the overall aesthetic, so consider how the colors and textures will fit into a room. When it comes to style, you can absolutely mix and match, like hanging a classical work in a contemporary setting to create an unexpected contrast that transcends a particular movement.

Published with permission from RISMedia.