Two Must-Have Redos

The top designers these days have a secret weapon to determine the latest trends in home design:  Pinterest.  Pinterest is a new social media site where members “pin” photos they like from around the Web to themed image boards on their personal page. Pins are shared with friends and other users, and Pinterest offers an integration option to share images to Facebook and Twitter.

And what are the hottest trends in home design that you should pay attention to?  A dedicated, well-organized laundry space, and smart storage/organization features.  They are the gifts that keep on giving.

Laundry Room


A laundry room inspirational
image posted by a Pinterest user
(original source: toriejayne.blogspot.com)


Because many working professionals only have a few hours to enjoy their home after a long day’s work, they should make the most of it.   Disorganization takes away from the tranquility of a space. Consider the laundry room. How many people dread their laundry space? The answer is too many.


Enhance laundry room space with shelving and cabinetry installed surrounding the washer and dryer. It doesn’t have to be expensive either. Target or Ikea may suffice. Consider what can be stored in that space – laundry detergent, other household cleaners, and iron and ironing board, towels, bedding, and, of course, dirty laundry. Add bins or baskets for separate loads for instant sorting. A big enhancement, if there’s room, is the addition of a rolling table where one could fold clothes, or even use for arts and crafts projects.  Pull-out mesh "drawers" for drying delicates would make some people swoon.

Smart Storage



A pinned image of smart family
storage solutions on Pinterest
(original source: oakridgerevival.blogspot.com)

Who hasn't been frustrated the minute they walk in the door because they have to step over backpacks, boots and other outdoor gear?  No one wants to walk into chaos which is why efficient storage is such a hot item, especially in entry areas of your home.  In terms of smart storage, why not add dedicated towers or cubbies for each member of the family – even one for the pets. Add names to them, make it feel like their own, and place it near a widely used entrance. It provides a space to instantly sort jackets, backpacks, mail, keys, leashes, etc., when families arrive home.

Source:  Realtor Online Magazine, Styled, Staged & Sold blog, adapted from an article by Erica Christoffer